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West silently watched the cars drive down the street below his office. He knew that they were all important people, judging from the fact that you had to have a very important purpose for being in this section of the station. West reminisced about his first time to the station he now owned. His reverie was interrupted by the beeping of his communications center, however, and he silently walked back to his desk. His computer monitor descended down from the ceiling, covering the window he had been peering through before. The monitor itself was massive, and plated in pure platinum.
As his computer hummed to life, Alan glanced around his luxuriously furnished office. The double doors on the opposite side of the large office were built out of mahogany and plated with pure gold. They were filled with a core of composite titanium. Although they appeared to be swinging doors, they were really controlled by a computerized mechanism. When not in the process of being opened, they were magnetically sealed. The Prime Minister also observed the fine artwork hung on the wall. West had a penchant for new age computer artwork and landscapes. His walls were covered with artwork of immeasurable value, and it deeply impressed any visitor who made it this far.
The message flashed on the screen. It was addressed to Alan, and sent directly from the Confederation Leadership. West read the message with a grain of salt. He knew that the Confederation was a specialist at diplomatic relations and at manipulating other governments to their advantage. However, WestŐs calculating mind indicated to him that this offer was real. Alan immediately composed a reply.
To: Confederation of Worlds Headquarters From: Prime Minister Alan West Subject: Diplomatic Relations Agreed. Pending further notice, we are now officially allies. I will start drafting an official treaty as soon as I can convene the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Also, tell Syrias that I have moved up to a .50 caliber bullet. And yes, I never leave home without my dual Desert Eagles.
As West sent the e-mail, he contacted the Atinoda shipyards. He requested a surplus Kestrel-S, saying that he needed it desperately for an operation. The shipyards granted him his request, but warned him that it was bordering on fraud.
The Prime Minister called up Rak and told him about the ship purchase. West gave Rak special instructions for the Kestrel-S, and Rak concurred. The new Kestrel was soon deployed with the rest of the fleet.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Kestrel-S: +150 Speed +** Turning +60 Accel +40 Shielding +60 Armor -All Weapons +Missile Jammer +Flare Rack & 50 Flares +Marine Drop Bay and Complement of 20.000 Marines
1st Zaxted Defense Fleet Flagship: Modified Kestrel ( Death Incarnate ) - 1 extra torpedo launcher + 20 extra torpedoes - 200 shields - 100 armor - Two flare launchers + 30 flares - 2 extra proton turrets 3 Kestrels ( Including Death Incarnate ) 6 Corvettes 12 Rapiers 12 Lightnings
1st Zaxted Special Operations Group 1 Kestrel-S
===============
OOC: Since Gamma didn't register for the story, his post should be voided.
------------------ "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams; live the life you've imagined!" Military Technology: (url="http://"http://www.army-technology.com/")Army(/url) - (url="http://"http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/factfile/ffiletop.html")Navy(/url) - (url="http://"http://www.af.mil/news/indexpages/fs_index.shtml")Air Force(/url) - (url="http://"http://www.firstgov.gov/topics/defense.html?ssid=1008272825086275_172")Defense Links(/url) Event Horizon: (url="http://"http://homepage.mac.com/marshalfak/")Rauther Power Industries Inc.(/url) - (url="http://"http://www.AmbrosiaSW.com/webboard/Forum26/HTML/005165.html")Event Horizon Sign-Up(/url) Macavenger's EV Webstory: (url="http://"http://www.AmbrosiaSW.com/webboard/Forum6/HTML/002267.html")Sign-Up Thread(/url)
(This message has been edited by General Rak (edited 05-17-2002).)
Earth, Sol Corsair looked at Asriel intently for several seconds, which seemed to drag into minutes and even hours. He then leaned back on his chair, and put his feet up. He was, notedly, wearing casual clothes. "Rumours? Damned men believe in rumours - men who don't live to hear that those rumours were false. The Confederation wants peace with the Rebellion, after this long war that they started."
"However, should the Rebellion not accept...which I fear...the situation may have to be reconsidered. But please - the Confederation is a just government, bound by a constitution. You are a pirate, and you are, according to our constitution, liable to a sentence. I could arrest you here."
Corsair looked at Asriel for some time longer. "However...I don't know you're a pirate, do I? You're a man from...Master's Planet...who wished to express concerns about the current political situation. You've been assured that we mean no harm. Of course, your ship was damaged slightly on the way here by Rebel raiders, and as such you're going to have to stop at Antares Station for certain repairs to your ship's propulsion that can't be done elsewhere."
Corsair paused. "Say the word, and the damage will be painted onto your ship in a few minutes. Trust me on this one. Get to Antares Station, and meet up with a man called Syrias Dacona. Oh, and thanks for visiting. Sorry about the lack of hospitality."
----------------
-Begin Hypercomm. Transmission- (From: Syrias Dacona) (To: West) (Encrypted) (Priority: As high as I)
Hey, West. Good to see you're still doing well - and .50s? Heheh, I was surprised that your arm didn't come off with the .45s. Better check your muscle status each week - you're getting old now, and if you lose it and break every bone in your arm...
Lyat has some business to deal with, something to do with a pirate - cough, official from Master's Planet - hothead that walked up to his door demanding an...alliance.
Oh, Lyat sent me to some legal nonsense message to you. You know the jist, I'm sure. We might need some help at some point in the future, we think - Rebels just ain't 'gonna take peace, and you're one of our best equipped allies. We can hardly flex a finger without having the press leap on us.
For that matter, this hothead might be useful, apparently. I'm not sure -- Corsair said that he'd probably send him to me, but would have to speak with him first. I might need a word with your military officer soon, too.
Syrias
(end message)
The CR-1095 heavy cruisers are now complete and moved into their respective fleets.
Confederate Navy Battlefleet Status
Status Report: Ten new CR-1095 heavy cruisers have been produced, two send to Alpha fleet, one sent to all other fleets except the 4th fleet, which remains unaffected.
Alpha Fleet (flagship: C.S.S. Bahamut) -- Antares Beta Fleet (flagship: C.S.S. Triad) -- Farazon 3rd Fleet -- Capella 4th Fleet -- NGC-6564 5th Fleet -- Matar 6th Fleet -- Altair 7th Fleet -- Regulus Scoutship Positions -- Curzon, Perseus, Gamera, Alcyon, Pelagon
------------------ -Lyat Esponer Corsair
After waiting two days without word from the Rebellion, Anderson could wait no longer. The Confederation was moving fast, and Anderson did not trust the sudden change of heart. A few things were going to have to be set up in advance, reply from Davies or no.
Anderson considered the range of data before him. Zaxted appeared to be up to something, though it wasn't known what. And it would bear checking on Astex, too, Morgan didn't trust that the Confederation was sincere, nor that Astex would listen if they were. Trust was not part of the job.
Anderson had only two ships not marked as part of Diphidia's armada. Ideally, he would send one to each system, but that might not work to well. Zaxted, by many reports, was being aggressive in defending its borders, and he didn't really want to risk the Starflare there. The Quicksilver , his new modified Scoutship, would have to do.
He had no doubts about getting his personal ship in and out of Antares, but it was undesireable for other reasons. The S.S. Starflare was a marked ship in Confederation space, and while they had never attacked him directly, he was sure to be watched, and it would be better not to let the Confederation know that he was around, or that he was watching Antares. Quicksilver would have to handle both missions.
He'd pilot the ship himself, but first, he needed to get the ball rolling on some of his long term plans, and that meant his old friend on Deneb III.
-Begin Hypercomm Transmission- (Secure, Encrypted) (From: Captain Morgan Anderson) (To: Robert Jaansen, Secretary of Agriculture, Deneb III) (Priority: Medium)
Hello, old friend.
It seems that I'm going to become MoD for Diphidia II in a couple weeks, and I need to get a few things started here. I'm going to be setting up a bit of a coalition of some independent worlds, to establish a bit of a position to protect ourselves from hostile takeover - and perhaps provide certain other benefits too, of I type I'm sure you'd be familiar with. So, could you do me a favor and have Bari get in touch with me by secure transmission? I'm going to need to coordinate with him.
See you around the galaxy, old pirate.
Morgan
-End Transmission-
After sending the message, Morgan went over to the reserved tie down for the Quicksilver and started preflight.
-----
Some hours later, an unidentified Scoutship dropped into the Antares System. After looking around for a while and setting down briefly on New Providence for fuel, it took off again and left the system for Diphidia II.
The encounter in Zaxted was markedly different, and very alarming.
After dropping into the system, Anderson quickly picked up massive activity by the Zaxted defense force. Ships were everywhere, but there didn't really seem to be any traders. Also, two Lightnings seemed to be vectoring out his way... and as he looked at them more closely, both went red on his scanner board and fired Missiles.
The surprise which hit cost Morgan several seconds, and nearly his life. The Lightnings weren't a threat to Quicksilver... little in known space was. But of course, he did still have to react when they fired, or they'd kill him anyway.
He quickly snapped the enhanced sensors over to AUTO, then took full direct piloting control. Rolling out to the left, he quickly lost all four Missiles with the help of his aftermarket Missile Jammer. As the Lightnings banked to follow, Morgan quickly banked right, pointed his nose out-system, and opened the throttle wide. He could have hung back and destroyed them easily, of course, but that wasn't the goal - getting the data and getting out was. And now his pursuit was truly no threat at all; Lightnings, while fast, could never catch Quicksilver if she had any lead at all - and thanks to the crossover maneuver, he had a big one.
By the time the Lighnings were able to come around and try for another Missile lock, their target was already accelerating out of the system.
============
Later that evening, tired but triumphant, Anderson looked over the data from his run. He didn't know much about what Zaxted was involved in yet, but they were definitely quite serious, which was solid information of itself.
In the long run, potentially far more useful data had come from Antares. He'd been able to land and pick up a few things on the ground. Astex Freighters had been seen leaving in the direction of Mentos, perhaps they were dumping waste there now. He'd also picked up a transmission, encrypted, from the Confederation to Astex. That could potentially be very useful, if he could ever crack it.
Best of all, both raids had gone off anonymously - to Antares, he was just a merchant passing through; to Zaxted, an anonymous intruder that got away - or something along those lines. He wasn't entirely certain what to make of that welcoming party.
His work for the day finished, Anderson returned to bed, hoping that maybe tonight he'd finally get an answer from the Rebellion.
------------------ - Macavenger | e-mail: (url="http://"mailto:e-gamerguy1@attbi.com")mailto:e-gamerguy1@attbi.com(/url)e-gamerguy1@attbi.com
Cartwright stormed into WestŐs office, using his neural implant to bypass the built in security mechanisms.
ŇAlan, we have discovered a Rebel sympathizer. He has been embezzling our funding for the benefit of the Rebellion Navy. We recently caught him in the act, but he managed to escape our C-Int team. We tracked him down and have him surrounded at the Grand Plaza Hotel. He is holed up inside with hostages and a team of thugs. We have sent in a SWAT team, but we have lost contact with them.Ó
ŇWho is the traitor?Ó
ŇDr. Comprar Mierda.Ó
ŇThen those men are already dead.Ó
Ignoring his newly received hypermail, West left his office in a state of fury and started toward his helicopter. He yelled back at Cartwright to reply to the message. He stopped by the headquarters of his elite special-forces unit, and gathered them all up. They were always attired in suits and sunglasses, and were armed with lethal Colt Commandos. Bringing along a team of ten ŇKiller Suits,Ó West boarded his chopper.
Arriving at the Grand Plaza Hotel, West found it surrounded by his civilian police force. West immediately found the commander of the units, and asked him for a report.
ŇSir. We sent a SWAT unit in. They were killed and thrown out the top floor windows of the hotel. We are now preparing an assault force to storm the building.Ó
ŇListen, Captain, I am going to be personally taking control of this operation. Use your forces to take the lobby and have them hold it for me. IŐll handle it from there.Ó
West then briskly walked to the Killer Suits, leaving the Captain frantically issuing orders.
ŇFollow me in. Standard deployment. Shoot all armed persons on sight. Remember to protect the hostages.Ó
West then waited for the storm troopers to take the lobby. Gunfire soon exploded, and bullets began smashing through the glass in the front lobby of the hotel. West noticed that the Zaxted troops were being repulsed, and was getting worried. So worried, in fact, that he ordered his team into the building. He led them up to steps approaching the building, and surveyed the site. He saw no enemies nearby, so he entered the hotel. Immediately several bullets whizzed over AlanŐs head. He hit the deck just in time to avoid another spray of bullets.
The Killer Suits sprang into action. Almost instantly the battle turned in ZaxtedŐs favor. Enemy after enemy dropped from dual gunshot wounds, usually double taps to the head. Soon, the intense fire subsided. The Zaxted forces, spurred on by the Killer SuitsŐ excellent combat, surged through the lobby. They viciously wiped out all resistance, and secured the elevator banks. West methodically led his force through the lobby, making sure that all enemies were down.
When he was sure that all resistance in the lobby had been eradicated, West calmly walked over to the elevator bank. He promptly accessed the computer panel and overrode control. He then forced the elevator doors open and placed a large explosive device in the elevator. He did the same for four other elevators. He sent the first elevator to the third floor, the second to the eighth floor, the third to the fifteenth floor, the fourth to the sub basement, and the final elevator to the top floor. He then forced open another elevator and entered with his team. While they setup a strategic fire position West interfaced with the elevator. He brought power back online to the elevator and then pressed the button for the top floor.
When the elevator reached the top, West manually opened the inner elevator doors. He then attached forward firing explosives to the exterior door. He closed the interior doors, and detonated the explosives.
The elevator doors exploded outward violently, smashing a hole through the back wall of the hotel. West and his squad burst out of the elevator, finding no resistance. West started walking towards the Grand Suite of the hotel. He soon reached the bridge between the Grand Suite and the main hotel building. He knew that his targets lay in the next building, but the bridge was glass and could be shot out from under his feet.
He didnŐt have much time to ponder the decision before explosive gunfire rocketed above his head. Four men had exited from the side door with Russian heavy rifles and were firing away. Bullets ricocheted everywhere, filling the air with paint chips and plaster. The heavy suppressing fire forced the Killer Suits to take cover, and West was forced to dive forward when one of the rifles was leveled at his head.
Utilizing his neural implant, West was able to slow down time. The concentration required was immense, and he could only do it infrequently. However, he was able to do it then and there. Raising his dual Desert Eagles, West fired a double tap into the first terrorist. Striking him in the eye, the first shot punctured his head and sprayed brain tissue and a pink mist out the back of his head. The second shot smashed into his jaw, violently detaching it in a cloud of blood.
West then double tapped the next tango in the throat, tearing through his AdamŐs Apple and snapping his spine. Seizing the opportunity, one of the Killer Suits let loose a volley of high impact bullets that snagged the third terrorist across his chest, collapsing his lungs and heart. The fourth, seeing the fate of his allies, dropped his gun and attempted to surrender. However, the Killer Suits had their orders, and they shot the man dead.
West, angry after being ambushed, ran straight across the bridge, followed by his team. When they safely got across the bridge, West ordered each of his men to clean out a different portion of the room. West personally decided to take out the tangos in the main bedroom. Upon spying the door to the room, West wondered if he had made a poor choice. The door was heavily defended, and the room inside more so. However, West decided that freedom and justice were more important that his insignificant life. He dove out of his hiding place and expertly shot the two exterior guards with his dual Desert Eagles. He was a man with a mission. He entered the bedroom and hit the deck, a hail of fire trailing him.
He quickly recovered and rolled out of the way just before a volley of lead ravaged the ground he was just on. He ran across the room at breakneck speed, firing bullets as he went. By the time he reached the end of the room, he had killed or incapacitated the entire guard staff. However, it wasnŐt over. Mierda had escaped onto the roof.
West kicked out a nearby window and vaulted onto the roof of the building. He spotted Mierda up ahead and unleashed a barrage of fifty caliber bullets upon him. MierdaŐs legs were butchered and he collapsed to the ground. West quickly ran over to him, placed a gun to ComprarŐs head, and eliminated the Rebel menace.
Ramon Latinar was having a bad day. It only got worse when he got caught up in a gunfight with a Killer Suit. He was nearly killed by the Suit when he bailed out the window. He hid from the Suit and waited. It was at that moment he heard a bullet slam into the metal crate next to his. He jumped around the corner to explore the noise and the limp body of his employer collapsed into his hands. He was enraged. Who could do such a thing! Suddenly he noticed West slowly walking away. He knew what to do. He aimed his pistol andÉ
The bullet slammed into WestŐs cranium, fragmenting on impact. The fragments punched through the fragile brain tissue of West. He fell on the ground as Ramon was shot dead by a Killer Suit. The world seemed to spin around West as he blacked out and entered a comaÉ
- - - - - - - - -
1st Zaxted Defense Fleet 3 Kestrels ( Including Death Incarnate ) 6 Corvettes 12 Rapiers 12 Lightnings
1st Zaxted Special Operations Group 1 Kestrel-S ( Covert )
Sirgil Station was in a silent uproar. Ensigns, Lieutenants and Captains were racing to and fro as Admiral Wilk issued orders at a breakneck clip. Wilk had just learned that the chain of command had temporarily fallen apart. He was restoring it in a cold, calculating and rapid manner. No officer -- no crewman -- would be the first to let him down.
(Wilk had received only the briefest of orders from President Skyblade. Admiral Wilk was in charge of the entire Rebellion until Skyblade's return. Wilk hoped said return would be soon. Wilk is a warrior, not a bureaucrat.)
Something was "up" in the galaxy. Witt Wilk did not know "what" ... yet. But he would be ready. As a Master level practicioner of Haikebo -- having studied under the High Master of Hikeeba on Gymkata -- Witt's chi was so developed he regularly became aware of disturbances in the galaxy before Rebellion sensors could even detect a problem. (Only his closest friends dared tease him about this ability. "So, what's 'The Force' telling you now, Witt?" they would ask. The trouble was ... Wilk was so often correct that his friends were conditioned to take him seriously.)
Wilk turned to his Command Station...
- Begin Coded Hypercomm Transmission - (To: Capt. Morgan Anderson, S.S. Starflare) (From: Admiral Witton Wilk, RNS Vigilant, Sirgil System) (Copy: President Skyblade, Admiral Davies) (Priority: Highest Urgency)
Captain Anderson:
First, let me apologize for the delay in response. And for my lack of formality. But time is of the essense and you are one of my highest priorities.
Admiral Davies told me of your request for two Rebel Destroyers. Your request is approved. I suggest you may want to pick them up at Guiron or Tiber though. Either location will accept your order. (Traffic is "impeded" in the Satori/Clotho sector. We are having difficulties with the neighboring independents ... not to mention the Confederation.)
Second, I have a proposal for you. My tactical officers speak very highly of your knowledge and assistance in fleet organization, deployment and tactics. Would you be interested in some "side work?" Forgive my presumption, but we are sending you more information via secure comm in anticipation of your agreement.
Honor Above All,
Admiral Witton Wilk, Rebellion
- Transmission Complete -
------------------ Courage stands halfway between cowardice and rashness, one of which is a lack, the other an excess of courage." ... Plutarch
(This message has been edited by Kaptain Karl (edited 05-17-2002).)
Cartwright read the hypermail West had left behind for him with some interest. He realized that it warranted no reply from him, so he filed it away for West when he returned. Instead, Cartwright interested himself in a priority one report from Rak. Apparently, a heavily modified Scoutship had entered the system. It had effortlessly dodged the missiles launched at it, and it went so fast as to be untouchable. Cartwright was alarmed. Such advanced technology would surely be a threat to Zaxted. Cartwright inquired further.
Rak sent Cartwright the images obtained of the pilot through the high-resolution satellites scattered throughout the area. He also sent a multitude of scans taken of the Scoutship. Using the scans, Rak was able to determine the model type of the Scoutship and the shipyard that modified it. The operator was very slick, as the paper trail didnŐt exist.
However, the photographic image and scans of the pilot hit pay dirt. The man was Captain Morgan Anderson, the future Minister of Defense of Diphidia. Cartwright called up AndersonŐs file. Although very thin, Cartwright was amazed at what he saw. He immediately filed a report, and sent the following message to Anderson.
To: Morgan Anderson From: Philip Cartwright, Zaxted Message: Please cease and desist from your present activities. A second violation of our sovereignty will result in the declaration of war and your assassination. As well, an intergalactic panel will be convened to investigate and probe your actions further. I hope that you do not blatantly violate our borders in the future.
Cartwright sent the message, and awaited WestŐs return.
(This message has been edited by General Rak (edited 05-18-2002).)
Admiral RMA, having not much to do due to a lack of Rebel activity, had been going over sensor reports from nearby systems. Various anomalies had appeared, but one stuck out. A Scoutship had entered the Antares system from Diphidia, with an independant beacon. However, none of the systems leading to Diphidia reported such a ship having gone to either Zaxted or Diphidia. It was unlikely that Zaxted, having become an ally, would be poking about Confederate systems without notifying Confederate Command. However, it was best to check out if they had been, and had just been lax in procedure. If it wasnt them however, the Diphidians must be up to something.
-Begin Hypercomm. Transmission- (From: Confederate Navy - Admiral RMA, Beta Fleet) (To: Zaxted Command) (Encrypted) (Priority: Medium) Sensor records from Antares show an unidentified Scoutship having entered the system from Diphidia. I was wondering if this scoutship had entered your system at any point. Sensor records from surrounding systems show no record of this ship. Attached are the sensor records from Antares.
Admiral RMA
(Message Ends) (Attached File:Antares Sensor Records) (Chance of interception - Low, no intervening systems)
------------------ If someone makes a mistake, it is not my fault. I will however use it to my advantage.
Voted most likely to be a serial killer by Insane Asylum - 2002
As Cartwright patiently awaited West's return, he recieved a message from the Confederation. Seeing the importance of the message, Cartwright composed and sent a reply.
To: Confederation of Worlds Fleet Command From: Philip Cartwright, Zaxted Subject: Scoutship Message: Under no circumstances would Zaxted violate our allies' sovereignty. We most definitely not dispatch a Scoutship to conduct covert espionage. However, we have information that may pertain to your situation. Very recently, a masked Scoutship piloted from the nearby system of Diphidia violated our borders. Our analysis of your sensor logs suggest that Morgan Anderson was responsible for both incidents. As you may already know, he has been active in Rebel and now Diphidian politics. We are already convening a formal interplanetary commission to probe this event. I suggest that you file your own complaint against the Diphidians.
On another note, do you have any information pertaining to the whereabouts of Prime Minister West? He has been gone a long time and I am afraid that he may have been captured by Rebel sympathizers.
-Begin Hypercomm. Transmission- (From: Confederate Navy - Admiral RMA, Beta Fleet) (To: Zaxted, Phillip Cartwright) (Encrypted) (Priority: Medium) I thank you for this information, and await the outcome of the panel. The Diphidians actions have only undermined their case against Astex, and will be reflected in our investigation.
Confederate Intelligence will look into the location of Prime Minister West and relay any news.
Admiral RMA (Message Ends) (Chance of interception - Low, no intervening systems)
As Cartwright examined his hypermail, a reply from the Confederation caught his eye. He then hypermailed them in return.
To: Admiral RMA From: Philip Cartwright, Zaxted Subject: Re: Scoutship Message: Thank you for supporting our commission investigating the incident. Also, I'm sure the CIF can find West, as he was instrumental in their creation and success. Also, our intelligence agency has begun probing Anderson and Diphidia, and I will report all of our results directly to the Confederation Command Infrastructure. Perhaps a joint effort between our intelligence network an the CIF is in order?
Reviewing any latest news and events, Carnotaur then looked at his hypermail. Though nothing from other governments were there, there was something from Scorcher; apparently a terrorist had taken up residence in a hotel a few blocks down the street and had taken hostages. There was also a Pro-Rebel Riot going on in front of the capitol building itself.
Carnotaur quickly called scorcher. "What's happening down there?" Carnotaur asked.
The sound of gunshots quickly responded, drowning out some yelling in the background. Finally he heard Scorcher's voice. "It's not good, Mr. President. The terrorist has a few sidekicks and they're well-armed. I'm calling in federal troops and a SWAT team."
"Very good," Carnotaur replied. "What about the protest?"
"Well that... Hold on a second... Johnson, get those snipers closer in! Now! Anyway, the protestors are, so far, keeping lawful but I doubt that will stay the same for very long. I'm sending in extra police and some riot squadrons."
"Good job, Scorcher," Carnotaur said. "Now you said earlier that you had an attack plan ready?"
"Yeah..." Scorcher said, whose voice was followed by some more distinct proton blasts. "Orion is horribly undefended, you know. Only one Rebel Cruiser guards it. It's easy mincemeat for the 1st Fleet. What do you say?"
Carnotaur thought for a moment. He wasn't sure that the 1st Fleet would be able to defend Propus incase of a surprise Confederate counterattack. "Well, we're definitely going to do it. The only question is when, Scorcher. I think I'm going to wait just a little bit, mainly just to bring in more information on where exactly the Rebel fleets are located."
"Okay, fine with me, you're the president!" Scorcher said and laughed. "Well, if you don't mind, I have some terrorists to bust..."
--------------------
-Begin Hypercomm. Transmission- (From: Propus Republic) (To: Confederation of Worlds) (Encrypted) (Priority: Medium)
We were wondering if you would allow us to purchase your FF-4237 Frigates. Our own equivilents to them are sorely outmatched, and now that we intend to start some offensive action soon, we could really use the extra firepower. We would also like to tell you that we plan to assault Orion sometime soon, as soon as we can get more information on Rebel warfleet movements. As this may insite a retaliatory strike against Propus itself, we ask that you simply put the Altair fleet on standby incase we are unable to defend ourselves adequately.
-Captain Carnotaur of the Propus Republic
P.S. We have also sent you another secondary transmission via hypermail. We suggest you take a look at that as soon as your schedule allows.
Propus 1st Offensive Fleet 1 Red October - Upgraded Kestrel/Flagship 10 Kestrels 15 Rapiers
------------------ If at first you don't succeed...Hit it harder! - Me -------------- Millennium. Its coming, prepare for it. Coming to the (url="http://"http://www.ambrosiaSW.com/games/ev/chronicles.html")EV Chronicles(/url).
(OOC: First things first, I need to clear up a misconception here. Anderson has only accepted the title of defense minister informally, off the record to PM Daniels. At this point, as far as Zaxted and the Confederation are concerned, Anderson is still a private citizen with no current connection to Diphidia. Also, there is nothing to link the two sightings of Scoutships - I didn't use any of the enhanced capabilities in Antares, and the modified IFF transponder would have been broadcasting a different identification in each system. Also, Anderson isn't stupid, he certainly knows that the Confeds are watching him, and was in disguise while in the Antares system. So, basically, you have nothing to link me to Antares - only Zaxted. Don't tell me the Confederation investigates every Scoutship that comes through Antares, either, because there have to be dozens every day. Please edit the relevant sections of your posts, guys. Thanks.)
As he'd hoped, Morgan did indeed have a reply the next morning, though it was not exactly what he had suspected.
Several of the Rebel leaders were going to be out of action for a few days, leaving Wilk as acting President of the Rebellion. And Wilk, in turn, was calling Morgan back in to help save the Rebellion again. Interesting.
Reading over the attached data, however, Anderson quickly became furious. The Confederation was lying in public, as he had suspected, putting its best face forward, while attempting to shut down all opposition behind closed doors.
Anderson left immediately for Guiron as Wilk had suggested, taking the Starflare. While this might alert the Confeds, he didn't particularly care at this point. They probably kept tabs on his movements anyway, so letting them know he was on Guiron would not be much of a problem. Besides, they'd know soon enough regardless.
On Akio, Anderson's first action was to pick up the two Destroyers. But that was just the beginning. He would ultimately take them back to Diphidia, but there were far bigger fish to fry here.
Upon entering the regional command center on Akio, he was met by an armed guard. "Captain Anderson, sir, this is a restricted area. I know you're a hero of the Rebellion and all, but I'm afraid you aren't cleared for this area."
"It's all right," Anderson informed him. "I'm here on the authority of Admiral Wilk, currently stationed in Sirgil."
"Ah, so you are. Step right in, sir."
Inside was the brain of the sector, and one which could serve as a secondary capital if Palshife were to fall. It was about to get a trial by fire in that category.
The Officer of the Day, Colonel Brand, stepped up to him. "Sir, we've been expecting you - the Admiral said you might come. Are you here to assist in strategic planning?"
"Yes, and no. I'm here to take command until President Skyblade can return to duty," Anderson informed him.
"I see, sir. Good news. Anything I can do for you?"
"Yes - take this message down to decrypt and see what they can do with it. I picked it up in Antares a few days back. I'd be very much interested to know what the Confeds are telling their friends at Astex."
"We'll get right on it, sir."
Anderson took a look at the broad range of data available to him. Rebel fleets stationed across fleets in pairs, with the flag task force, nominally under President Skyblade, stationed at Palshife, somewhat stronger than most other fleets. It was paired with a more typical Rebellion fleet of 4 Cruisers, 8 Destroyers, and 24 Mantas stationed in the Orion system. Other pairings had standard fleets at Tiber and Agena, Spica and Turin. Wilk's personal fleet was in Sirgil, as strong as the flag force, paired with a standard fleet in Nemesis. That all looked good, two fleets could react quickly to most any threat to Rebel space. No adjustment seemed needed there.
As Anderson finished reviewing the tactical data, turning toward politics, Brand reappeared. "Sir, decrypt has analyzed that message you gave us. Here's the decoded copy."
Anderson looked at him sideways. "That was awfully fast decryption work."
"The message is about a week old, sir, and was using an older encryption code at the time it was sent," Brand explained. "We break the Confed codes regularly, same as they do with ours, I'd imagine. That's why we have to replace them every couple of weeks. Anyway, that one was cracked three days ago."
"Thanks," Anderson said absently, reviewing the message. "Dismissed."
It was here. It was all here, a data-torpedo that would seriously harm the Confederacy's public relations. He sat at a terminal.
-Begin Hypercomm transmission- (To: Deneb III) (Copy: Lethe, New Cydonia, New Bavaria, New Istanbul, New Scotland, blackthorne, Hera, Liberty Station, Hikeeba, Zaxted Starport, Nexus Outpost, Dune, Levo, Master's Planet, Torgo Prime, Maxswell's Purchase, Pegasus, Sauron, Diphidia II, Interstellar News Network) (From: Capt. Morgan Anderson, Provisional Operations Officer, Rebellion High Command) (Unencrypted) (Priority: Urgent)
To the sovereign nations not involved in the current war between the Confederation and the Rebellion: Greetings.
Recently, most of you recieved a message from the Confederation, expressing goodwill to all, and informing you that they had made an offer of peace to the Rebellion. Those of you who did not recieve it are doubtless aware by this time of its contents. This letter was disinformation, Confederate propaganda designed to retain your goodwill as they continue to plot a war of conquest, to take over the entire galaxy, and to destroy democracy for their own ends.
I would be as remiss as President Corsair had I no proof to back my accusations. To begin, I offer the complete text of their offer of peace to the Rebellion for your inspection:
(From: Confederation of Worlds HQ, Earth, Sol) (To: Rebellion HQ, Palshife, Satori) (Unencrypted) (Priority: Low)
The Confederation of Worlds has decided to offer you an opportunity to lay aside your war with us, as we know the damage that we have caused to you over the recent months, and we feel it is only according with the freedom and justice which the Confederation of Worlds stands for to offer you the opportunity to put this war aside in place of an unhindered coalition of all mankind.
I am confident that you will find our following terms satisfactory, and expect a prompt reply.
All Rebellion military vessels with the exception of defence fleets and fighter patrol wings are isntantly disbanded as of this moment. All Rebellion military and non-military technologies, including but not limited to the specifications for the Rebellion cruiser and the Rebellion's modification of the Argosy, are ceded over to Confederation databanks immediately. All Rebellion naval officers of ranks colonel and above are sent to Earth to stand trial for their crimes. The Rebellion accept an embassy and the military presence of a Confederate capital ship in each of their systems permanently. All Rebellion tactical information is ceded over to the Confederation. The Rebellion cede Clotho to Confederation rule to act as a frontier system. 25% of the Rebellion's economical current treasury and production is given to the Confederation. The Rebellion agree never to open military fire on any Confederation vessel.
I am sure you will read over these terms and find them to suit with your own.
As you can plainly see, this is not in fact, a proposal of peace, but a demand for surrender, with the terms dictated in advance by the party demanding it.
There is no record of the Rebellion trampling on the rights of independents in this war, as Corsair suggests. We could hardly oppose the independence of those who have, as we fight for independence for all. You have nothing to fear from any Rebel ships or fleets.
Further, the promises made to Diphidia in the message are nothing but a veil of lies, meant to lull that planet into complacency as the Confederation and Astex prepare to further ruin it. Witness this recent communication between the Confederation President and Astex, intercepted by an independent Merchant and forwarded to the Rebellion for analysis:
(From: Lyat Corsair) (To: Luke of Astex) (Encrypted) (Priority: High)
'need your help - suck up to Diphidia, they're a bit unstable lately. Quit with the waste dump for a while, go fire it under the star of Mentos to incinerate it instead.
Keep your eyes open, make use of the scoutships under your command to investigate Diphidia if you would. There's something going on that we don't understand, and it doesn't help that we lost trail of Anderson.
Don't make any major moves against Diphidia before we can discuss the situation. If you need to contact someone, track down West on Zaxted Starport. He's a dangerous man, but a good one. Syrias is also in Antares, and should be able to provide some help to you if you need any - just don't get him near West, I've yet to figure out whether those two or friends, or he has some personal vendetta. West isn't the only dangerous man around here...
Oh, and apologies again for moving 3rd Fleet to Capella. Alpha Fleet has some work underway.
-Lyat
Again, it is clear that Astex is firmly in the Confederation's pocket, and had been conducting a campaign to undermine the sovereignty and economic viability of the planet Diphidia II in concert with their Confederation masters.
Test these files; you will find that they are the truth. I ask nothing save that you consider the evidence here, and how it may support your decisions on which, if either, party to support in this war.
The Rebellion desires an end to this war as much as the Confederation does. However, we will not bow to a demand for surrender when there is no cause to surrender, and when the terms are clearly meant to demean us and return us to slavery.
Please consider this message and it's attached evidence carefully. Good Day.
Morgan Anderson
Morgan reviewed his message carefully, and decided it was good. It would refute much of what the Confederation had been saying of late, cause people to question their motives, perhaps even win the Rebellion back some goodwill. He sent the message.
Then he say back in the large command chair waiting for the inevitable counter thrust... while sending a private message to his XO for the Starflare , who had remained on Diphidia, asking him to take the Quicksilver out and check up on Confederate fleet deployments in the area, making sure he stayed out of the Zaxted system.
Dacona's current vessel, a Rapier that had been in the Bahamut's bay, streaked through space at breakneck speeds towards Earth. It practically skidded to a stop in low orbit, and slowly descended down to a private docking bay. Corsair had evaded the mass of functionaries, and was waiting for him at the dock.
"Anderson," Syrias said coldly as he stepped out of his ship.
Corsair nodded, seeming unperturbed. "He's working for Diphidia now."
"We have a problem," Syrias noted. "Anderson is one of the few intelligent men to get caught by the Rebel's lies, and he's dangerous... very dangerous. I'm not sure if West and I together could take him out."
Corsair frowned deeply. "He's hit us hard. My uncle sent word from Maxwell's Purchase. The government there has made public a message he sent. It seems our request for surrender is now all over known space."
"If the aliens pick it up, tell me, will 'ya?" Syrias replied dryly.
"Very funny...seriously, though, we have a problem."
"Not necessarily. Corsair, as far as speeches go, you're the best, and you're also the best politician I know of. And just to topple the balance, we happen to be the good guys for once."
"...like anyone will believe that," Corsair sighed. "Everyone seems to prefer to think the Rebellion are trying to save us from oppression. We messed up, Syrias. We should never have organised the Confederation beyond this primitive fanatic stage. People start getting annoyed when we tell them they're allowed to think."
"The irony, eh? If we fall, the Rebels will eventually be forced to evolve into a real government, at which point another fanatic rebellion will spring up. The only way out, Lyat, is to eliminate the Rebels. And since we're so civilised, we can't just blow them up, because some independant governments will scream 'Oh no, you're not allowed to win!"
"I'll get to the reply," Corsair answered firmly. "And I'll get back to that hothead, too..."
With that, Corsair disappeared, and Syrias, grinning, got back into his Rapier and returned to Antares.
-Begin Hypercomm Transmission- (From: Anonymous, Location Antares) No Confederation ties (To: Morgan Anderson) (Unencrypted) (Copy: Confederation, Rebellion, Diphidia, Zaxted) (Priority: Urgent)
'yo Anderson, I hear you've been playing around in interstellar politics again. I don't really know why you'd even bother - minors like me and you only get ourselves killed, you know. I've heard from the independant planets, by the way; nice work, very impressive. I'm sure the 'Feds will reply pretty soon with their usual response. You won't believe a word of it, of course, but you never were very bright.
It's been a while, and I have to say I've missed you somewhat. My leg's pretty much completely healed up from the bullet wound, by the way, thanks to the cybernetics of today. 'cost me an arm and a leg, but...I'm sure you'd be willing to pay for it, directly.
To when we next cross, eh? And by the way, I broke up with her -- she kind'a stopped loving me after the whole hostage scene you pulled. Next time, no hostages, no complications.
(OOC - Mac, Anderson would know Syrias, but under a completely different name - he would also not know of Syrias Dacona within the Confederation ranks, most likely)
-Begin Hypercomm Transmission- (From: Lyat Corsair) (To: Morgan Anderson) (Copy: All Space) (Unencrypted) (Priority: Urgent)
Enclosed is a reply to your statements against us. You are also requested to make yourself present at the Magistrate's Court, Antares City, New Providence, as you are tried for various crimes agreed to by all of known space, minus the Rebellion.
I am pleased that you are drawing your own personal conclusions, as that is exactly the type of behaviour we like to see. May I ask where your evidence lies that we are attempting to destroy democracy? I myself was voted into this position, so I find it rather funny that you believe there is no democracy within the Confederation. Point of fact, it appears to be that the Rebellion is much more based on a warrior society without representation than the Confederation, considering how their leaders come into power through "shady" elections.
Before I address your "proof", I would like to ask how you came about it. The former, obviously, came from the Rebellion. The message to the Rebellion was a confidential one to their highest level of hierarchy. Am I right to assume that you have access to this? I don't seem to recall you being the president of the Rebellion, so I can only assume that the Rebellion has failed to honour the confidentiality of the message. How...civilised of them.
As for the message itself, it appears you're behind on your politics. We call them "peace agreements", because an agreement is made. Typically, the first side makes it demands, and the second retaliates with theirs. The first side then cuts down its demands, and so on until an agreement can be made. This is recognised politics, and except in the case of military domination, peace has never been achieved in any other way. It is interesting that you are trying to conceal this fact and twist the truth to try and show the Confederation as "evil" once more. We offered an opening statement. Also, addressing our terms exactly, what we were requesting was in no way unfair. We ask that their leaders be held trial - justice. Are you suggesting that justice would be better served, and we would be less "evil", to let these murderers go free?
The promises we made to Diphidia were true. As for this "intercepted message" of yours, I would like to addressing the following.
The chances of a vessel picking up a direct message from one base to another is approximately one in a trillion. Even an independant encryption code would take several years to decode.
This suggests fairly definately that you, Anderson, could not have picked up any messages. And there, unfortunately, we come to a point. Because in fact, you could pick up that message. You have the trajectory for an interception between New Providence and Earth, down to the signal stations. There are only three or four people in the galaxy who we know could have made such an interception, and you are the only one of them working for the Rebellion.
Plus there is the matter of your appearance in Zaxted. Interesting, I see. A scoutship. A scoutship was also sighted passing through Antares and crossing the intercept line. This scoutship was also seen flying off into the galactic south-west. Interesting.
The message was true - I will not lie with such things.
<<'need your help - suck up to Diphidia, they're a bit unstable lately.>>
Informal? Yes. Is the Confederation now held responsible for my choice of terminology in private messages? You must admit, the Diphidians have now proved that they are up to something -- you.
<< Quit with the waste dump for a while, go fire it under the star of Mentos to incinerate it instead.>>
I have no proof that Astex has been dumping toxins into Diphidia II's sea, but by necessity that had to be asked of them. I thus asked them to stop it (if they were doing anything). The process is nonsensical anyway, because incineration into Mentos would be cleaner and cheaper. The only side effect is a marginal lowering of the star's life - Mentos has sixteen billion years left of life or more. This is one of the "environmental concerns" which has been marked by everyone as acceptable.
<<Keep your eyes open, make use of the scoutships under your command to investigate Diphidia if you would>>
Such behaviour is followed by all governments on all other governments. The Confederation is concerned of Diphidian's rise in military power (of course we know about such things, all requests from Blazitron Industries are mentioned in passing to us through our recent ties with Blazitron), and is thus keeping an eye out on them. We do not want to see Diphidia declare war on Zaxted, as some rumous have suggested. We are peace keepers, and that is perhaps where this all started. Would you like to make peace keeping oppression again, Anderson? People are too clever for that this time, I'd imagine.
<<There's something going on that we don't understand, and it doesn't help that we lost trail of Anderson>>
Problem solved, I see. And you're still up to the same tricks.
<<Don't make any major moves against Diphidia before we can discuss the situation>>
I wanted to be sure that Astex would not attempt to take the Diphidian government to court for their suggestions before several matters could be seen to. It seems that the independant courts of New Istanbul need confering with before this could take place.
<< If you need to contact someone, track down West on Zaxted Starport. He's a dangerous man, but a good one>>
West of Zaxted starport -- I'm sure you've heard much of him, Anderson, as I'm sure he has of you. You're both legends in your own right, but opposed to each other. A pity that you're not as good as him, really. By dangerous, I was referring to slightly strange behaviour of some of the more legendary figures. I'm sure you'd understand -- you have enough strange behaviour for a city, like expecting people to really believe all this.
<< Syrias is also in Antares, and should be able to provide some help to you if you need any - just don't get him near West, I've yet to figure out whether those two or friends, or he has some personal vendetta. West isn't the only dangerous man around here...>>
No, West isn't. There's you too, and we know the type of things you're capable of. Syrias is the codename of a military officer under my command, who happens to know West from the past.
<<Oh, and apologies again for moving 3rd Fleet to Capella. Alpha Fleet has some work underway>>
I'd absolutely love to see you try to prove fair military action with another government who originally started the war is sign of the Confederate's oppression. I will not be dragged into explaining Alpha Fleet's presence in Antares, because that is confidential Confederation military information. Quite frankly, it's on a much higher level that the one you're struggling to work at.
I am also glad that you have shown yourself, Anderson. You have been a great concern to our government for a long time, due to not only your piloting skills, but also because of your political skills. I see they are in full flare. You lie now better than you lied before.
Your little interception proved much less than you think. It has proved that I have made every effort to stop any biological damage to Diphidia II, it has proved that you are viewed as a galactic scoundrel before you made this appearance, and it has proved also that you have been attempting to intercept personal messages between myself and my dear friend Luke of Astex.
<<The Rebellion desires an end to this war as much as the Confederation does. However, we will not bow to a demand for surrender when there is no cause to surrender, and when the terms are clearly meant to demean us and return us to slavery>>
We? Would that we be royal, or do you now act for the Rebellion? The Confederation has asked for peace, and made its first terms. I am awaiting the reply with the Rebellion terms, and have, in fact, already written up a counter-term response which is much more suitable for their liking. And what is this returning you to slavery? I do believe, Anderson, you are forgetting to back yourself up. But then again, your politics always was shady. I'm somewhat surprised not to hear; "Go Rebellion!" and a series of subliminal messages attached.
To justice, as it truly is, not as it is claimed.
Lyat Corsair
Lyat sighed as he read through his message. For all he could do, Anderson was a very good manipulater, and in his anger from the Rebellion's murders, he had not phrased his message to Luke very well. If he was not careful, he would lose support very quickly. Tired, after having not slept for several days, he flicked through all the copies. New Cydonia, New Istanbul and New Bavaria should be safe, he hoped, as he knew the leaders of those places, and was to an extent friends. Blackthorne had always been neutral, and their leaders were far too wise to get caught in either sides words. The other planets, he was worried about.
Corsair, at that point, received another message, this one directly from a man he knew well. It had been sent by courier, and the location was on Earth. It seemed Syrias was ahead of him -- this way interception was absolutely impossible.
"Corsair, get some of that hothead's ships in if you can, discreetly. We need to eliminate Diphidia and kill Anderson. There's no other way to do this. Anderson is just going to spread his nonsense if we don't. I'm going to do what I can, but..."
Corsair returned to his quarters, to find Asriel gone. He quickly sent a patrol fighter to hunt him down and send him a secure message to get pirate ships in, discreetly but quickly.
Corsair then began to wonder how he was to see to this. He decided to message Zaxted.
-Begin Hypercomm Transmission- (From: Lyat Corsair) (To: Zaxted Starport) (You do realise there's not enough time left in the universe to decrypt most encryptions, don't you?) (Priority: Urgent)
We have a situation on our hands with Morgan Anderson. He's a dangerous man to society, and if he's not brought to trial...he's been told to go to New Providence to the trial, but we doubt he'll go. That should prove that he's unlawful, hopefully.
I need to talk to West. Where is he?
-Begin Hypercomm Transmission- (From: Confederation of Worlds HQ, Earth, Sol) (To: Propus Republic) (Encrypted) (Priority: High)
Do NOT engage the Rebellion. We cannot currently give or sell you frigates, as our fleets are stretched as they are. An engineering team can be picked up at Polaris, and will help you build them.
Status Report: None
(This message has been edited by SilverDragon (edited 05-18-2002).)
West was rapidly brought to the Shock Trauma unit of the top hospital on Zaxted. He was put under anesthesia and rushed into the operating room. Surgeons operated around the clock on West. Soon, his brain function had been restored and his skull had been reinforced with composite organic plating. Forty eight hours after being shot in the head, West was very much feeling better.
He returned to his office to find Cartwright nervously pacing. West quickly detailed what happened to Cartwright, and promptly access his hypermail.
To: Confederation of Worlds Headquarters From: Prime Minister West Encryption: One time cipher pad with password as long as message Subject: Treaty Message: Please accept this treaty between our two glorious nations, as it will ensure our joint prosperity and success.
Terms of treaty: Unrestricted Trading Rights Non Aggression Pact Complete Right of Passage Mutual Protection Pact Recognition as a Polity A fully staffed embassy & diplomatic corps at Zaxted and at Earth Protection by the Laws of the Confederation Access to the Frigate and Cruiser Ship Designs
Thank you.
1st Zaxted Special Operations Group 1 Kestrel-S ( Covert ) ------------------ "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams; live the life you've imagined!" Military Technology: (url="http://"http://www.army-technology.com/")Army(/url) - (url="http://"http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/factfile/ffiletop.html")Navy(/url) - (url="http://"http://www.af.mil/news/indexpages/fs_index.shtml")Air Force(/url) - (url="http://"http://www.firstgov.gov/topics/defense.html?ssid=1008272825086275_172")Defense Links(/url) Event Horizon: (url="http://"http://homepage.mac.com/marshalfak/")Rauther Power Industries Inc.(/url) - (url="http://"http://www.AmbrosiaSW.com/webboard/Forum26/HTML/005165.html")Event Horizon Sign-Up(/url) Macavenger's EV Webstory: (url="http://"http://www.AmbrosiaSW.com/webboard/Forum6/HTML/002267.html")Sign-Up Thread(/url)
-Begin Hypercomm Transmission- (From: Confederation of Worlds HQ, Earth, Sol) (To: Prime Minister West) (One time cipher pad, password as long as message) (Priority: Medium)
We accept your proposal, and will send the specifications for the FF-4237 frigate and CR-1095 heavy cruiser immediately via a guarded convoy from Altair, where we have a fleet dispatched.
To justice,
PS: Good to see you back - where were you?
-Begin Hypercomm. Transmission- (From: Luke of Astex) (To: Diphidia II) (Encrypted) (Priority: Medium) I see you've been intercepting some private messages. Good work, it usually takes much longer to unencrypt such hypermail. I'm sure you were very... motivated.
I have taken all Astex freighters out of your system. The unjust dumping of toxic wastes in your oceans has come to a comlete stop. I would like to formally apologize for this previous behavior. I was ordered to do so by the previous President of New Providence. Rest assured that this man is now in a secure prison facility on Mars. Under orders of my good friends of the Confederation, all waste produced by Astex Industries is now being ejected at the star Mentos. The Mentos system is not officially owned or inhabited by any government, although Astex has been using it for mining and other purposes for years. I am sure you understand that our new waste handling process does not harm your planet's environment in any way.
I will continue to monitor any suspicious behavior on behalf of Diphidia. My defense fleet is ready to do its job if you or the Rebel terrorists decide to assault normally placid Astex Industries. Know that if any Diphidia warships enter my sphere of influence, they will be ordered to explain their presence or leave immediately.
-Luke, Head of the Astex Industries Defense Corps (end message)
------------------ Write your complaints here: O Please don't write out of the space. (url="http://"http://www.evula.com")-(/url)----------------- (url="http://"http://www.homestead.com/lukenj/index.html")"It's spelled Luke, but it's pronounced 'Qkrnxtl.'"(/url)
- Begin Hypercomm Transmission -
(To: Interstellar News Network) (Copy: Confederation of Worlds HQ, Earth, Sol) (From: Admiral Witton Wilk, Rebellion, Sirgil) (Uncoded)
Mr. Corsair:
Here is the reply of the Rebellion to your "Peace Proposal" of several days ago. Please accept our apology for the lack of proper protocol in addressing you. We are honestly uncertain of your actual title. (Is it Prime Minister, President or something entirely different? You claim you were duly "elected" ... to what office?)
You will also note that we are publicizing this comm via the Interstellar News Network. We believe the Galaxy should fully view the machinations of the Confederation. What better way than to "shine the light of truth for all to see?"
The people of the galaxy will recognize -- by your introduction -- the root of the problems we have all experienced since the Great War. You Confederation people "talk out of both sides of your mouth" even as you pretend to offer peace. The abusively taxed and regulated peoples of the Independent worlds have certainly experienced the Confederation's "standing for peace and justice" haven't they? And all of human history has demonstrated that coalitions only work well in the short term. The attempt by the leadership of the Confederation to force allegience to your never-ending "coalition" will be your ultimate downfall. The Rebellion wants no part of such a coalition.
We categorically reject all of the points in your so-called peace proposal.
We do have a counter-proposal for you. Please let the Galaxy know why you will not agree.
The Rebellion will declare peace and end all anti-Confederation activities as soon as:
You will note the very open nature of our proposed solution. If the Synod chooses to allow you or any members of your cabinet to run for office ... fine. If If the Synod chooses to intitute a single comprehensive government ... fine. If the Synod chooses to have each (or any group of) system(s) remain independent ... fine.
The point is, we are not insisting on "order" as we define order. We believe the citizens of the worlds in the galaxy know best how to govern themselves.
While we do await your rapid reply, we also want you to have some time to "wrap your minds around the true concepts of freedom and honor" as expressed in our proposal. Choose wisely, Corsair. The whole galaxy is watching.
Honor Above All, Admiral Witton Wilk, Rebellion Command, Sirgil
- End Transmission -
- KK
(This message has been edited by Kaptain Karl (edited 05-18-2002).)
West, now recuperated, sifted through his hypermail. He came across several interesting ones and displayed them on his projection monitor. The first one was from Syrias Dacona.
_Hey, West. Good to see you're still doing well - and .50s? Heheh, I was surprised that your arm didn't come off with the .45s. Better check your muscle status each week - you're getting old now, and if you lose it and break every bone in your arm...
For that matter, this hothead might be useful, apparently. I'm not sure -- Corsair said that he'd probably send him to me, but would have to speak with him first. I might need a word with your military officer soon, too._
West replied with the following:
To: Syrias Dacona From: Prime Minister West Encryption: One time cipher pad with password as long as message Message: Hi, Syrias. DonŐt worry, dual .50Ős arenŐt too bad. And they sure pack a punch. You still carry around that .38 special? I tell you, that gun will die on you at the worst moment.
Never trust pirates, errÉ officials from MasterŐs Planet, to be completely forthcoming and open. They always look to profit.
Of course IŐll lend my assets to the war against the Rebellion Terrorists. Oh, and sorry about the bad press, but I needed to kill the peace plan. Very recently I was nearly killed taking out a Rebel sympathizer, and I will do it again. Just so you know where my allegiances lie.
As I said, never trust those pirates. But if he can help in the war against the Rebellion Terrorists, then use him. You can consult with Rak or me anytime you wish, just drop us a line. End Message
West then examined his next hypermail item. It was sent from Confederation Headquarters.
_We accept your proposal, and will send the specifications for the FF-4237 frigate and CR-1095 heavy cruiser immediately via a guarded convoy from Altair, where we have a fleet dispatched.
PS: Good to see you back - where were you?_
West replied:
To: Confederation of Worlds Headquarters From: Prime Minister West Encryption: One time cipher pad with password as long as message Message: Hey Đ thanks for accepting our treaty. It has been ratified by the Imperial Senate on Zaxted and is currently active. I have just received the specifications for the Confederate capital ships, thank you. The reason I have been out of contact was because I had a little encounter with a bullet. Nothing much, really. End Message
West sent his reply.
Retiring to his leather chair, West contemplated the ever-expanding galactic turmoil. He knew he had to make a move soon, but what would it beÉ
On the bridge of the C.S.S. Triad, Admiral RMA sat, feeling bored and wishing the Rebels would actually do something. Something had to happen soon.
To: Zaxted, Prime Minister West From: Confederation, Admiral RMA Encryption: One Time Cipher pad Message: Beta Fleet is availible should Zaxted needs any military support, and operations against the Rebellion do not prohibit help. Please be notified that should Beta Fleet come under heavy attack and need to retreat, we will most likely head for Zaxted under terms of our alliance. End Message
--------
(OOC: One more tiem, Dragon, I'm not working for Diphidia yet - officially. There's nothing aside from a conversation in the Diphidia II PM's office linking me to Diphidia, so no one outside Diphidia II's upper echelon could know that yet.
-Begin Hypercomm Transmission- (From: Morgan Anderson) (To: Lyat Corsair) (Copy: All Space) (Unencrypted) (Priority: Urgent)
<Enclosed is a reply to your statements against us. You are also requested to make yourself present at the Magistrate's Court, Antares City, New Providence, as you are tried for various crimes agreed to by all of known space, minus the Rebellion.>
Very funny, Liat. You want me, come get me, if you dare. All of known space excepting the Rebellion is not in agreement that I'm a criminal - I've heard positive things from many independent planets, including your would be friends on Deneb III. Should you accept the peace proposal referred to later, I will submit to the decision of the Synod proposed by Admiral Wilk. However, as you well know, I do not consider the Confederation a legitimate government, and thus do not consider myself subject to its justice system.
<I am pleased that you are drawing your own personal conclusions, as that is exactly the type of behaviour we like to see. May I ask where your evidence lies that we are attempting to destroy democracy? I myself was voted into this position, so I find it rather funny that you believe there is no democracy within the Confederation. Point of fact, it appears to be that the Rebellion is much more based on a warrior society without representation than the Confederation, considering how their leaders come into power through "shady" elections.>
Odd that I've never seen a Confederate election myself, despite all my years travelling the space lanes... I've witnessed the Confederate reign of terror with my own eyes, Liat, you know as well as I do. Unfortunately, you also no as well as I do that I can't stricylt prove anything there... yet. I'm expecting your actions over the next few weeks to bear me out, and reveal the Confederation to be the imperialistic, elitest government that it is.
<Before I address your "proof", I would like to ask how you came about it. The former, obviously, came from the Rebellion. The message to the Rebellion was a confidential one to their highest level of hierarchy. Am I right to assume that you have access to this? I don't seem to recall you being the president of the Rebellion, so I can only assume that the Rebellion has failed to honour the confidentiality of the message. How...civilised of them.>
I have temporary access to it, under the authority of Acting-President Wilk, for the next few days. It turns out that I was the best solution to a multi-variable equation. The Rebellion asked, and I volunteered. It isn't a matter of breached confidentiality - the political reality is that the main Rebellion leadership is out of action for a few days, and there is a provisional government now in place of which I am a part. I have access to such materials under that authority.
<As for the message itself, it appears you're behind on your politics. We call them "peace agreements", because an agreement is made. Typically, the first side makes it demands, and the second retaliates with theirs. The first side then cuts down its demands, and so on until an agreement can be made. This is recognised politics, and except in the case of military domination, peace has never been achieved in any other way. It is interesting that you are trying to conceal this fact and twist the truth to try and show the Confederation as "evil" once more. We offered an opening statement. Also, addressing our terms exactly, what we were requesting was in no way unfair. We ask that their leaders be held trial - justice. Are you suggesting that justice would be better served, and we would be less "evil", to let these murderers go free?>
An insulting demand for surrender is not the way to get a government to the table - you should know that as well as anyone. Further, much of the galaxy does not view the Rebellion leaders mureders, especially given that only legitimate Confederation targets have been attacked.
<The promises we made to Diphidia were true. As for this "intercepted message" of yours, I would like to addressing the following.
This suggests fairly definately that you, Anderson, could not have picked up any messages. And there, unfortunately, we come to a point. Because in fact, you could pick up that message. You have the trajectory for an interception between New Providence and Earth, down to the signal stations. There are only three or four people in the galaxy who we know could have made such an interception, and you are the only one of them working for the Rebellion.>
I'd suggest taking it up with whatever C-Int personel failed and allowed a man on your watchdog list into a position to do carry out such an interception. During a war, such actions constitute legitimate military intelligence, as I'm sure you understand. I don't see how this changes anything conveyed in the message.
<Plus there is the matter of your appearance in Zaxted. Interesting, I see. A scoutship. A scoutship was also sighted passing through Antares and crossing the intercept line. This scoutship was also seen flying off into the galactic south-west. Interesting.>
Indeed. Good luck finding that Scoutship - you won't be able to. If I hadn't slipped up and forgotten quite how efficient an operator West was, you'd never have known it was me in the first place. That error will be corrected in the future.
<The message was true - I will not lie with such things.>
Your candor is so appreciated when any bright ten year old could have determined that message was real on his own, since I included all the headers and electronic wave-riders that go with it.
<Informal? Yes. Is the Confederation now held responsible for my choice of terminology in private messages? You must admit, the Diphidians have now proved that they are up to something -- you.>
The Diphidians have proven nothing - all that has been proven is that I am currently doing various intelligence work for the Rebellion in this sector.
<I have no proof that Astex has been dumping toxins into Diphidia II's sea, but by necessity that had to be asked of them. I thus asked them to stop it (if they were doing anything). The process is nonsensical anyway, because incineration into Mentos would be cleaner and cheaper. The only side effect is a marginal lowering of the star's life - Mentos has sixteen billion years left of life or more. This is one of the "environmental concerns" which has been marked by everyone as acceptable.>
I find that very interesting, especially since such proof came to light a few years back. Of course, it did mysteriously disappear after reaching Yemuro, somehow. Perhaps It needs to be retransmitted, since it never really hit the public eye. I think I'll attach the relevant data files to the end of this message, since it, like your message to me, is copied to all known space.
<Such behaviour is followed by all governments on all other governments. The Confederation is concerned of Diphidian's rise in military power (of course we know about such things, all requests from Blazitron Industries are mentioned in passing to us through our recent ties with Blazitron), and is thus keeping an eye out on them. We do not want to see Diphidia declare war on Zaxted, as some rumous have suggested. We are peace keepers, and that is perhaps where this all started. Would you like to make peace keeping oppression again, Anderson? People are too clever for that this time, I'd imagine.>
I have seen no rumors indicatig that Diphidia II has the force or inclination too declare war on anyone, nor would I support such action if they did. Last I heard, Diphidia II was a pacifistic people, desiring only to defend themselves against such predations as Astex has visited upon them in the past. It would be interesting, of course, if you attacked Diphidia II in the name of keeping the peace solely because they are attempting to make it possible to defend themselves during this period of galactic unrest.
Also, I find it interesting that you are apparently offended in some way that I had the audacity to recon two systems in my Scoutship, yet you blow it off as normal intelligence gathering when you are engaged in the same activity. Perhaps there is a double standard at work here?
<Problem solved, I see. And you're still up to the same tricks.>
I wouldn't say that your problem is solved, only that it has assumed a new direction.
<I wanted to be sure that Astex would not attempt to take the Diphidian government to court for their suggestions before several matters could be seen to. It seems that the independant courts of New Istanbul need confering with before this could take place.>
Suggestions? What suggestions? Diphidia II hasn't made any moves in intergalactic politics of late. Such a transparent lie clearly exposes that you are working with Astex on some sort of campaign against the sovereign nation of Diphidia II.
<I'd absolutely love to see you try to prove fair military action with another government who originally started the war is sign of the Confederate's oppression. I will not be dragged into explaining Alpha Fleet's presence in Antares, because that is confidential Confederation military information. Quite frankly, it's on a much higher level that the one you're struggling to work at.>
Oh, I wouldn't expect you to. I have no objection to your deploying fleets within your own borders. However, as I'm sure you'll understand, the message would have been more difficult to verify had I not included the entire data files, unedited - and so a few legitimate military deployments remained in.
<I am also glad that you have shown yourself, Anderson. You have been a great concern to our government for a long time, due to not only your piloting skills, but also because of your political skills. I see they are in full flare. You lie now better than you lied before.>
Or perhaps I'm better at exposing lies now than I was before. That depends on a certain point of view, doesn't it?
<Your little interception proved much less than you think. It has proved that I have made every effort to stop any biological damage to Diphidia II, it has proved that you are viewed as a galactic scoundrel before you made this appearance, and it has proved also that you have been attempting to intercept personal messages between myself and my dear friend Luke of Astex.>
It has proved nothing of the sort. It has proven that you have had full knowledge of and compliance with Astex's activities until the point where continued involvement became politically undesireable. It has proved that some people are still capable of getting things that need doing done, even if certain parties might consider it unpopular. That is all.
<We? Would that we be royal, or do you now act for the Rebellion? The Confederation has asked for peace, and made its first terms. I am awaiting the reply with the Rebellion terms, and have, in fact, already written up a counter-term response which is much more suitable for their liking. And what is this returning you to slavery? I do believe, Anderson, you are forgetting to back yourself up. But then again, your politics always was shady. I'm somewhat surprised not to hear; "Go Rebellion!" and a series of subliminal messages attached.>
I temporarily act for the Rebellion, by the authority of Acting-President Wilk, as stated earlier.
As the people of the galaxy are by now aware, President Wilk has submitted his own proposal for peace to the Confederation. Subject to his approval, I would like to amend Article II to the effect that all military officers above the rank of Captain on both sides would be placed on indefinite administrative leave, subjet to reinstatement or war crimes trials based on the findings of the Synod. I further propose to amend Article I such that Rebellion leaders would also resign upon acceptance, and allow the Synod to run the galaxy if necessary in the interim. This proposal offers a just peace for all, rather than a surrender by either side. If it is rejected, you will know where the Confederation's true loyalties lie. -End Message-