Dreminth, Torun and most of Loran are now under the control of the supposedly civilian backed coup leaders. The Harmen family and many nobles allied to them have fortified ground positions on Loran. Short of a bloody assault or using SP weapons they won't be easily removed. For the moment both sides will wait things out while negotiations are conducted.

Moves to evacuate a nearly complete heavy carrier may have contributed to the fall of Loran, but as a result the Rebels now lack any heavy warships. Fadila believes this has improved your bargaining position. At the same time it's also increased the chances the rebels might use that worlds large population to their advantage if things get desperate.

The coup forces have proclaimed themselves the Jerik-Dremine Emergency Council. They've been quick to announce support for elected for positions like that of planetary governor and new representatives to a House Council. The old Dremine council has largely been arrested except for one member who escaped off planet. Work is already underway to have civilians and legal experts hold elections on Dreminth in a matter of days.

More vocal leaders are making sure to play to the crowds. Chief among them seems to be Keegan Fox who your advisors are quickly beginning to accuse of demagoguery.

Lastly, and possibly worst of all, Count Gernot Sigurd Jerik is dead. Many of the reformers seem unhappy about this, at least outwardly, and are painting his death as a tragic result of refusing to surrender. Governor Veos on the other hand has been taken alive, as have others.

The longer the rebels remain in control of the capital the stronger their grip on it becomes. Already nobles are making agreements with the Emergency Council to safeguard their holdings and family members. A number of training bases have also fallen under their control, with many of the students joining them. Combined with their assault corvette and engine production they potentially have the basics for a dangerous fleet in the making.

Alex has returned from fleet exercises in allied space and is preparing his fleet for combat. Much of his ground forces have just arrived at Alaior and are conducting resupply. Alaior has becoming the main rally point for forces fleeing the homeworlds. Ships from Saputo's Torun fleet are there, along with RSS forces and the Heavy carrier from Loran. In theory Alex could launch an attack on the capital in a matter of days, potentially before the election is supposed to be held.

Most of the Rioja fleet and army has already left for the homeworlds. Your remaining fast fleet elements will be launching in a few more hours, followed by a 7 day flight allowing you to catch up with the main fleet. This Emergency Council has that long to complete negotiations with you or face the House being broken in half.

Before departure you intend to spend time with the kids. They'll be remaining here in the capital under heavy guard while you're away. With everything going on you've barely had time for sleep lately, let alone seeing them. Troy at least was able to take time away before his departure.

"Mommy!" shouts Eleanor when you enter the playroom.
She and her brother both rush over each biving you a hug. Apparently they missed you. At two and a half years old the twins are getting quick on their feet.

"How have you two been?" you ask.
"We wanted to play with you!" says Leon. "Daddy said you were really... really... um."
"Working!" finishes Eleanor.
"Yeah!"

"That's right. I'm sorry I couldn't see you guys. Daddy and I need to go away for awhile to help some people."
"No!"
"I dont want you to go away." complains Leon.

"Well, I need to go help some friends of mine that are in a lot of trouble. But we can play for a few hours before I have to leave." you explain.
The twins are still not happy that you'll be going but for the moment are easily distracted. You spend what time you have with the two of them playing or trying to help them with words they're learning. Really you could use some sleep. The past few days have not exactly been helpful in that department and you're exhausted. Despite that you're determined to spend as much time as possible before departure with them.

One of the aids informs you it's coming up on time to leave. Predictably this sets both children to crying.

"Hey, it's okay. We'll be back. I can call you from the ship using the hologram okay?"
This helps but they're still teary eyed as you get set to head out. You give Leon and Eleanor each a kiss on the forehead before wishing them goodbye.

"Don't cry. Don't cry. Don't cry." you mutter to yourself on the way to the shuttle.

"Sir?" asks one of your personal guard.

"Nothing."

>>3068777
FOR HOUSE AND DOMINION

For House and Dominion!

Within the hour you're in orbit aboard one of the Long Range Battleship II's. The Excalibur and Clarent class ships from your usual escort force have taken up position. The slower vessels have already departed along with the Outer Heaven and the main fleet.

Fadila and her diplomatic staff are still getting some of the long range communications systems sorted out so that you can continue negotiations with the Emergency Council while in flight. It should be ready by the time the group makes the long jump for the Centri Cluster.

With the extra available time you give more thought to the kids. Would this be a good time to make some contingency plans for their education? If so what are some areas that you think should be focused on to help them in future careers?

[ ] Leadership - You'll need a successor.
[ ] Business - That fortune wont maintain itself.
[ ] Martial - The Dominion is a dangerous place.
[ ] Science - Carry on your research projects.
[ ] Mixed education - A bit of everything to let them decide
[ ] Postpone decision

I have to leave for a birthday party! I'll be back later tonight.

>>3068886
>[ ] Mixed education - A bit of everything to let them decide

>>3068886
>[ ] Science - Carry on your research projects.

>>3068886
>[ ] Mixed education - A bit of everything to let them decide

>>3068886
[X] Leadership - You'll need a successor.

>>3068886
>[ ] Mixed education - A bit of everything to let them decide

For House and Dominion! Bringing the feels and the pain!

>>3068886
>[X] Engineering - Salvage for the salvage throne!
>[x] Mixed education - A bit of everything to let them decide

>>3068886
>[ ] Leadership - You'll need a successor.

For house and dominion! Burn the traitors edition.

For now you intend to ensure that both of your children will recieve a well rounded education. Once they're older they'll have had opportunity to study enough different areas to get an idea of what they like. Or what's needed.
With any luck you and Troy will be around to make sure that happens.

You're woken by Ruiz a few hours later having apparently fallen asleep at your desk. Communications are up and the diplomatic party is hard at work communicating your intentions. Release of the hostages before any serious negotiations take place is the main sticking point you and Fadila are pushing for. There are fallback options you're willing to commit to instead, but you'd rather avoid those if possible.

One issue here is just who is classified as a hostage and what their release would entail. Students from the military academies that have chosen to join the Emergency Council's forces are not considered to be among those counted.

Likewise they'd be reluctant to release certain nobles who have been charged with corruption and are awaiting trial. Governor Veos for instance will not be freed under any circumstances.

As long as you recorded a message to help placate them, Baron Saputo and a number of the old council members might be released. Obviously it would be necessary to provide them a security detail to ensure they're not harmed by less restrained members of the populace. Other than that freedom of movement would be granted.

It's not perfect but it will manage to get a number of people out of immediate danger.

[ ] Hold out for everyone arrested
[ ] Demand release of lesser nobles charged as well
[ ] Demand release of all council members, even those charged
[ ] Agree if they can be moved off world
[ ] Agree to stipulations

>>3070853

>Baron Saputo and a number of the old council members might be released

Wasn't Saputo with Alex?

>>3070863
No, he was on the surface of Torun when the planetary shields went up. A good portion of Saputo's fleet escaped and have linked up with Alex's fleet.

>>3070853
>>3070853
>>3070872

>As long as you recorded a message to help placate them

What kind of recorded message do they want recorded? And I say we have said message sent out from us to our advanced stealth units. So the rebels have whatever doctored version they want to give and our original version that our units can give if they doctor out anything. If we go this route.

I would argue they can hold on to Governor Veos for the time being. Since the reveal of his corruption kicked this all off so trying to get him out would be quite hard. But getting Saputo released so we have another baron on our side is a big goal. Next would be getting all the Council free. If they don't want to hand over all the old Council members. Have them give the old Council members they don't want released, turned over to the Ruling House. They are the current designated neutral ground in J-D space.

>>3070892
>What kind of recorded message do they want recorded?
Something along the lines of; don't try to overthrow the emergency council while negotiations are ongoing?

The only council members they're reluctant to release have been charged with corruption so they'd like them to go to trial if possible.

>>3070853
>Hold out for everyone arrested

>>3070853
>[ ] Demand release of lesser nobles charged as well
>[ ] Demand release of all council members, even those charged

>>3070853
>Agree if they can be moved offworld.

>>>3070853
>[X] Agree if they can be moved off world

>Likewise they'd be reluctant to release certain nobles who have been charged with corruption and are awaiting trial. Governor Veos for instance will not be freed under any circumstances.
I'd like to ask them to allow us to provide a limited security detail for these people. Obviously not large enough to take over the planet or break them out but enough to make sure nobody has an unfortunate accident like those nobles back an Surakeh.

>>3070853

Then give them the recorded message, but make sure our forward units have their own copy in case the rebels decide to doctor up the copy we give them.

And

>[ ] Agree if they can be moved off world

Get the Council members who they don't want released until prosecuted off world. If they don't want to immediately hand them over to us. There is always B'H. The Emperor himself has given his permission to use the B'H Embassies as neutral talking grounds. I imagine that extends to making prisoner transfers and such of that nature.

>>3070853
>[ ] Hold out for everyone arrested
Is Sonia finally learning to be a loving mother?

And predictably more family stuff has come up today. I'll be able to post later tonight I think.

>>3070853
>[ ] Demand release of lesser nobles charged as well
>[ ] Agree if they can be moved off world

You decide to give tentative agreement to the conditions set out by the Emergency council, provided those released are allowed to leave the planet.
"See if you can also push for the release of any others. Nobles, those arrested, whoever. The more we get off the planet the better. If they're unwilling to budge on more then so be it. We'll look for another way. At least we didn't have to promise them immunity from the start."

Now it can be kept as it's own quite separate issue. Of course you won't able to use it as an option to turn the regular troops against their leadership. As much as you were looking forward to sowing dissent it's not worth it. Your opening bid on the expected punishment for the rebels is going to make a few people angry you're sure.
It might be best to delay that one until after the other demands are presented. Or until Saputo is safely off Torun so the Barons can elect a new Count.

Agreement that the council needs to be expanded is met with appreciation until they find out how minimalist your expansion plans are. Representatives from the more distant territories, especially South Reach, would really be all you support in the initial proposal. That's going to be a contentious issue.

"String them along on that one as much as you can." you suggest.
Formation of a new council remains a last resort.

The issue of new Governors being selected by the Count continues to be argued over. It's impossible to stop elections from going forward on Dreminth and Torun. Other worlds will still have their administrators selected by the Count no matter what. It's an item you won't step back from.

Loran remains out of focus on that front. Lord Harmen hasn't officially been removed from his position as Governor, even if he controls less than 10% of the planet at this point. His networks remain mostly secure and there has been little data leaked that could be used against him for corruption charges.

With the situation there stabilizing for the most part, the Emergency Council wish for elections to take place. If you were to convince Troy's father to agree to it they'd approve allowing his entry on the ballot. Subsequent elections for Governor would be held every 10 years.

[ ] You'll try to convince him.
[ ] Promise nothing but do discuss it with him.
[ ] "You'll have to convince him of that yourself."

>>3072557

>[ ] Promise nothing but do discuss it with him.

I don't know if he wants to be the next Governor or not. I'm pretty sure he gets paid more being the head of the Harmen business. Being the Governor would be a cut in pay I'd imagine. Unless the governorship somehow surpasses what the Harmen family gets from its contracts.

But really, I want to talk to him, with B'H's network. And find out what we can do to support him. So that we can get the pressure off of him. We did promise we would come to the homeworlds to help him when we asked him to spare troops to capture the heavy. So talking to him now to see how we can help him. Without tipping our hand to much to what our plans are, would be good.

On the chance he actually DOES want to be the governor, I don't know why, beyond giving cutbacks and bonuses to the family business which is just going to get him in trouble. They'll need to work with him on that.

>>3072557
>[ ] Promise nothing but do discuss it with him.
Discuss it being, "they want you to hold elections," and not much more.

>>3072557
>You'll try to convince him.

>>3072557
>[ ] Promise nothing but do discuss it with him.

>>3072573
>On the chance he actually DOES want to be the governor, I don't know why
It's one of the top 3 most populous and industrialized worlds in the House and he's been governor for 30-ish years. It's the power base of the Harmen family and many of the old human nobility from House Jerik before the two Houses merged.

The question more is if he'd want to remain Governor in an elected system. As opposed to one where only the Count or an assassination could remove him from power.


"I can't promise anything but I'll discuss it with him. Please make sure you've ceased jamming around the planet so that I can get through to him."

Using diplomatic channels and connections through the Ruling House you manage to get in contact with the Governor.

"Reynard! It's about blasted time. Tell me the fleets are on their way. We have a cease fire but there's no way to tell how long that will last. I'm confident we can hold out but I'm worried they'll try to turn more of the populace against us if given time. The sooner we retake the planet the less casualties there will be."

You explain that the Rioja fleet is on it's way but until it reaches the homeworlds you're going to attempt diplomacy. Simply too much of the House population and infrastructure is under their control to risk destroying the House without attempting negotiations first.
"I have contingency plans." you assure him. "For now the rebels want to resolve the situation on Loran since they weren't able to sweep you all under the rug like they hoped."

"This had better be good."

"Their plan is to hold elections for the position of Governor. If you agree to allowing it you'll be permitted to run."

"They expect me to lobby for retaining my position?"
"No, it's worse than that. They want the civilians to vote." you explain.
"All of them? There were 10 billion people on Loran and the orbital platforms in the last census. Are you completely serious that I have to appeal to everyone?"

You nod. "That's the offer. I can't say you should accept it or not, that's your choice."

The older man grumbles. "I was really hoping I wouldn't need to cut any deals with the likes of them with you and your grand fleet on the way. I'll need to discuss it with the rest of the family that's here. Is Troy there with you?"

"He's on another ship." you reply then add. "The kids are being kept safe, whatever happens."

"Good, good. I need to see to things. I hope you arrive soon, Harmen out."

Will make a post or two before work tomorrow.

> There were 10 billion people on Loran and the orbital platforms in the last census. Are you completely serious that I have to appeal to everyone?"
I unfortunately didn't get this idea when you were collecting suggestions for the survey but at its best the Dominion is basically a large meritocracy, right?
The people who help the House become nobles and knights, and the Houses which do best rise in rank and power.
So, why not apply the same idea to the elections and more specifically to who gets to vote? Instead of letting people vote simply because they own land, why not implement a Starship Trooper style system where service to the House earns people a vote in the election? It would keep more in spirit with the way the Dominion works than universal suffrage and might lessen the diplomatic penalty another of these strange democratic Houses probably sees on interactions within the Dominion.

>>3072952

I support this idea. Keeps the masses from voting and only those who have sacrificed or put their lives on the line are able to make votes on what matters. Everyone else gets same treatment, but they dont have a say in what matters until they put forth their time into serving the house.

>>3072952
Isn't that already how the House works?

>>3072952
There is a system in place for the nobility where every other generation an inheritor of a family's land has to provide military service to the House. So for example Leon and Eleanor could do whatever they want. Work civilian jobs or in administration, etc. Any kids they might have would need to spend some time serving in the military to ensure proper inheritance.

Similarly many in the middle class are people who retired from the military and were able to get preferential treatment in terms of job availability or small business loans.

For the selection of governors, having the Count choose them on all other worlds outside of those the rebels control won by a substantial margin. The rest of the House won't be budging on that any time soon.
Loran however could be treated as an exception to both systems.

[ ] Selected by the Count (What Lord Harmen wants)
[ ] Elected by the nobility
[ ] Elected by Middle class and higher
[ ] Elected by the general populace (What the rebels want)

>>3072952
I can't say I am entirely against this model. Even if I am INCREDIBLY reserved with any form of democratic reform what so ever, thanks to these assholes. However I am still of a mind that Governors should remain the sole choice of the Count to further entrench the Counts power in the House. If we weaken the Counts power with in the House we may end up with a power struggle similar to the Dominion civil war.

>>3073227
>[ ] Selected by the Count
I stand by my survey decision. Governors to be elected by the Count.

>>3073227
>[ ] Selected by the Count (What Lord Harmen wants)
No compromise with Count murderers.

>>3073227

>[ ] Selected by the Count (What Lord Harmen wants)

The rebels may be able to affect or sway politics of the core worlds. But those are well established worlds and our middle and outer colonies need more finer touch. Having the count select the best candidate from available candidates is best option. Because the worst case scenario I can think of is you get a Baron or Governor who are at odds and everything gets fucked for that world.

>>3073227
>[ ] Elected by Middle class and higher

>>3073274
Loran is a core world, the rebels just don't control it entirely at the moment.

In other news Windsor has secured the garrison at Robrinaan using the local marines posted to his corvette units. There was a minimal ship to ship engagement but no serious fighting. Capture of the base caused injuries but no fatalities. Mike will be there to reinforce the position soon.

Vanderwal sends you a report indicating that Baron L'ak Tenni has mobilised her fleet and will be departing for the homeworlds soon. Hopefully she'll just be there to help ensure negotiations go smoothly.

And I have to leave for work. Will post in the AM.

>>3073227
We promised Avun we'd do our best to improve the House, so why not use this chance to implement some changes? The governor gets chosen like he used to but the population can issue a no confidence vote, to avoid situations like we had on Surakeh.

>>3073227
>[ ] Elected by Middle class and higher

>>3073227
>[ ] Selected by the Count (What Lord Harmen wants)

>>3073305
Do we know what the Baron’s intent is?

Giving Lord Harmen a bit of time you consider the rest of your negotiating position. You'll be sticking to the plan for Count appointed Governors on all of the other worlds. Just because the rebels hold 90% of Loran doesn't mean you should abandon trying to get similar agreements there.

"Get me the line back to Loran, I have an idea."

"Is this a good idea or a bad idea?" asks Fadila.
"That remains to be seen."
"It's going to be a bad idea isn't it?"

By the time coms are reestablished your father-in-law has given the others the news. They are still debating their options though.
"I want you to negotiate with them, but push for the option to let people vote for Count appointed Governors."

Harmen pauses then frowns. "Reynard, why on earth would they agree to that?"
"Just get them talking with options, confuse the issue, but push for ways to keep the old system in place. Get political if you have to. If people respect what you've done for the planet over the years there's a good chance some of the populace might support it."

"Get my foot in the door like one of those bastard sycophants until I can put a knife in is what you're saying. I'm getting too old for this level of political shitstorm, but think I can make that work. Not an easy task though. Tell Troy to contact me. I could use the help of some of his friends he was probably hoping to keep out of this."

The transport group Troy is with is still more than a day a head of your group by the time you get hold of him. Predictibly he's not enthusiastic about calling in old favours before he's even made it back to Loran.

"Sonia what my father is asking is going to use up all my remaining favours on Loran and is sure to put a lot of my friends in danger. I do not want to do this."

[ ] It has to be done.
[ ] It's your call.
[ ] He might be able to make it work without them.

>>3074627
>[ ] It's your call.
"I understand. These next few days will ask much from all of us, but we have a chance to truly build a greater house."

>>3074635
Supporting

>>3074627
>It's your call

>>3074627
>[ ] It's your call.

>>3074627

Supporting this anon >>3074635

>>3074627
>[ ] It's your call.

>>3074627
> [ ] It's your call.
> [ ] It's also your Father. I would do it for mine, in this situation. I'll support you either way, but I that's my perspective on these things. Family is what we risk it all for.

Some thoughts I had. How interested is Troy in being the next head of the family business? What is his likeliness over his siblings to be chosen to inherit the business or succeed his father should he retire? If his father wants to use up all of Troy’s favors this would mean his father would owe him big time. If Troy wasn’t already in front of the line to be the next successor to the Harmen Family business. Helping his father with this aught to guarantee him being the next head of the family business. Of course, him doing this will also mean more heat from his siblings and cousins and extended family will focus their hate on us and the kids. So, if he wants to gain said guarantee that he will be the next head of the business. This is the time to do it, but it will put a bigger target on our kids from his family and extended family.

I am wondering about his position in the line of succession for the family business as one of his siblings or cousins? Was running to be planetary governor of Loran and if they become the next governor of Loran that puts them in a better running to be the inheritor of the family business. Especially since his father is both the current head of the business and governor. And if his sibling/ cousin who is an opportunistic ass hole. Who is using these rebels to get ahead. Becomes the next head of the Harmen Family business, it will likely severely hamper our business relations with the company since they’ll see Troy and the kids as road blocks to their goal. So said sibling/ cousin would likely work with the rebels until they get the governorship.

Another thing I was also thinking about. Since Tenni is coming, we should prepare to receive her. Not as an enemy but as a friend and ally. Since the rebels likely contacted her claiming we’re there to bully them into submission. Ask her to work with us in working with the Emergency Council, she has a unique perspective that we lack and having her working with us. She is a Baron of a new piece of territory, so she has it harder then we do. And we’re an established Viscount, so having new and established people working together. We can make it so that she gets the changes she wants so the nobles of her world back her because of those changes. But she also helps back some of the changes or demands we have of them. Because we’re treating her with the same equality as we would any other established or older Baron.

>>3074627
>[ ] It has to be done.

"Are those friends of yours going to survive long enough that you feel safe to keep banking those favors?"

---

GOD DAMN when can we start shooting people? When can we send in our Vindicares?

So these fucks have subverted Dreminth, but we can always move the capital right? If it's tradition or history keeping the House government there then this is probably the best excuse to move it and significantly reduce the influence of the partisan populace.

Geomancy 101, you move your capital to a more feng shui place when the emperor dies because his death gives bad vibes. The Japs did it for like a thousand years even building new cities if they had to.

>>3074627
>[x] It's your call.
Sonia did keep her family and friends out of harms way when this whole quagmire began so we can't exactly expect him to do something Sonia wasn't willing to do herself. If he knows that some of his friends will be able to help or at least stabilize things without endangering themselves it would really help if he could contact them.

>>3075407
> When can we send in our Vindicares?

The Imperium of Man is NOT a role model.

But memes aside, we're creeping our consolidation around the rebels.

Tau strategy=best strategies

>>3076211
I know what we're doing but this frustrates me to no end. There won't be any going back on whatever concessions and changes we make to the House and no matter what or how we do it, the returning army is going to go fucking ballistic. Soldiers coming home to see that their family members were killed by their own neighbours and nobles seeing their families hang simply for Playing The Game. That shit ain't gonna fly, regardless if the Emergency Council is alive or dead.

Just kill the traitors and lock down the subverted planets until our leaders return home and then we deport them all to Terran space but accidentally enter deep space coordinates. Accidents happen. Please

Edge of my seat here anyhow, when we bring down the hammer on the rebels the reverberation will be felt all the way to the Neeran homeworld

>>3076633
A) we can totally go back on concessions made under duress.

B) Not all the concessions are bad.

C) Better to wait until the returning armies, well, return before we go ballistic. That way we can crush them with overwhelming power without having had them fortify themselves.

>>3076641
It's not about them being good or bad, it's about making far reaching decisions when we only have seniority due to everyone's absence. We finally had a rather stable and nice place in the house, but all that is fucked now. We'll be right in the middle of every high level political debacle for decades.

Going back on concessions when you have millions upon millions of people willing and able to go with pitchforks and tar is not smart. Especially for Sonia on a personal level considering her history with the South Reach planets, Veritas and even Rioja. No matter what we do someone is going to grab a gun and try to shoot us for it.

It was nice and cozy when Jerik acted to stop assassins from coming at us, you know? To think I'd miss the battlefields...

>>3076648
It's the reason why I'd rather not have Sonia be count after this. Politics is a much more dangerous battlefield.

>>3076648
> Going back on concessions when you have millions upon millions of people willing and able to go with pitchforks and tar is not smart.

That's why we go along with the concessions, then sabotage them by underfunding them and implementing them at crossing purposes and erratically so that everyone gets sick of them and decides we were better off without them in the first place.

Killing ideas isn't harder than killing men, it just takes more time.

Like we should make wild claims and push too far in some directions, then withhold the resources to implement the claims.

We should seed political candidates with planted evidence of corruption and stuff.

Obstruct voting access with difficult times and excessive security measures and registration requirements, then claim the vote is invalid without a certain amount of participation.

>>3076736
I wish I found this as fun as some of you guys do.

Don't forget that every unregistered voter and every no-show counts as a vote to keep the old system. If they want everyone to vote, then everyone votes! We aren't Terrans here, we don't stop people with arbitrary rules like "actually submit a vote in person"

"It's your call. I know I'd be reluctant in your place."

Troy curses. "I'm not going to involve everyone, but I'll still talk to my father."

Wishing him luck you lose the channel and turn your attention to the upcoming launch of Tenni's fleet.
"Send an encrypted message to Baron Tenni. Find out what are her intentions are regarding her fleet movements."

Vanderwal gets back to you a few minutes later.
"The Baron claims she's taking her fleet to the homeworlds to make sure both sides take the negotiations seriously."

You raise an eyebrow. "Why wouldn't I take them seriously?"

"There's no shortage of people in the fleet who want revenge for the death of Count Jerik. Tenni, the emergency council or both may be concerned you're one of them. Even if you're not, there's Baron Palaiologos to consider, plus Baron Saputo if he makes if off world."

"And another eight Barons once the fleets return from the front." you point out. "What's the state of Xisoth's fleet?"
"Dealing with sporadic uprisings among old House Erid nobles. Enough think J-D is crumbling that a few have begun to try opening moves for a potential breakaway. The majority are reluctant to go against Xisoth so they're waiting to see what he does before they act."

"Any danger of them succeeding?"
"Slim for now. The Baron deployed a third of his army to secure planetary shields and orbital defenses so he doesn't see a repeat of Torun. Unless he suddenly joins them any separatist force wouldn't stand a chance. He's too popular, being one of the few former Erid leaders with any power, and his success in the civil war certainly helped."

"As long as he has it under control." you shake your head. "Okay, back to the previous item, Tenni wants to make sure the negotiations continue. What's she going to do if they break down?"

Vanderwal shrugs.
"Hard to say. I think it would depend on who broke off talks, but there's no guarantee of that. She did say she supported the reforms."

Right. She also bought a number of Lambda class battleships for her fleet.

"It might be safer for us to operate on the assumption that she's sided with the Emergency Council and take steps to counter her."

If Tenni were to oppose the retake of the homeworlds your forces would need to take a more cautious approach. A good chunk of your forces would need to be standing by to defend the transports or chase down the fleet if the opportunity presented itself. This would probably slow things down.
Plans Alex had hoped to rely on depended on countering the smaller EC fleet and quickly assaulting the core worlds. Only if negotiations broke down that is. Still the operations in space were intended to be over much more quickly.

[ ] Change backup invasion plans to counter Tenni's fleet
[ ] Do not change plans at this time
[ ] Be prepared for either eventuality

>>3076791
>[ ] Change backup invasion plans to counter Tenni's fleet

>>3076791
Can you clarify what changing our plans mean?

>[ ] Change backup invasion plans to counter Tenni's fleet

Whatever I rather be ready to fight than to get caught unprepared. What is her fleet strength? Can someone remind me if we have stealth ships with SP? I'm thinking that we snipe her command ship as soon as shit goes down if it turns out that we have a battle on our hands.

>>3076803
>Can you clarify what changing our plans mean?
It means that a good chunk of your forces would need to be on standby to deal with additional enemy ships.
Invading the homeworlds would be done more cautiously and more slowly overall.

Gone to work!

>>3076791
>[ ] Change backup invasion plans to counter Tenni's fleet

I don't want to count Tenni as a possible enemy. The Emergency Council and the rebels are the ones in the wrong who've put the house in its current situation. We should do what we can to assure Tenni that we will do our best to ensure the changes she needs to better her world take place. But because the emergency council is playing upon her position as the baron who needs these changes. They've put her into a position where she either supports them or the changes dont happen. Which is just not true. If she needs changes to happen to ensure her world is improved we will make sure they happen. But if the emergency council needs to leave then they will need to leave because they've endangered the whole fucking house with what they've done.

>>3076791
>[ ] Be prepared for either eventuality

>>3076791
>[ ] Change backup invasion plans to counter Tenni's fleet
Guess at lest one Baron is getting killed then. And honestly? Fuck her anyways for siding with the ones who murdered the Count and have now brought the entire House upon the bring of destruction. If she sides with them she is no better than them and deserves the beatdown we will bring upon her.

>>3076791
>[x] Be prepared for either eventuality
We should have more than enough staff to draw up plans for both scenarios.

>>3076791
>[ ] Be prepared for either eventuality
But we’ll remember this betrayal of the Count’s memory by her

>House & Dominion thread
>semi-caught up during Civil War
>I should catch up again
>We political marriage
>Well, ok. I guess we need to improve ties...
>We marry Troy Harmen, essentially the first noble we ever met
>Fox still alive, sends Admiral Graham to convey message
>We don't shoot Graham
>Goodjob.jpg
>Fox is still alive
>KillBill.jpg
>Neeran Invasion Double Electric Boogaloo!
>Jed Enright and his entire ACC crew KIA
>Not one even seems to notice.
>That certified badass has been pulling crazy stunts with Sonia since the Warlords Campaign
>I'mnotcryingyouarecrying.jpg
>4 threads left to catch up
>Sonia has kids. Parents are happy.
>Best Daughter! Suck it, Becka!
>Count Jerik is dead. Motherf-
>Saputo captured (probably deserved it)

1. Where the hell is Fox and how can we kill him in this?

2. Which thread has the best summary of who may stand where on this current event?

>>3076791
>Do not change plans at this time

>>3078374
Unsure where Fox is but he is a loyalist as far as we are aware at this time. His SON however is one of the leading cunts trying to topple the House and whom we can most likely use to completely destroy him.

Currently it's a bit of a free for all. All we know is the Harmens and Sonia stand together. Tenni has just about all but declared for the Emergency Council. Saputo will declare for us once we get him free. Alex stands with us.

>>3078396
>Fox's son is trying to topple the House

Are they actually trying to topple the House? The limited mention I've seen of these guys so far in the archives presents them as a (now violent) anti-corruption reformation?

Not sure if there is more critical info on them in the last few threads.

>Harmens, Saputo & Alex stand (or will) with Sonia

... to do what? Oh god, are we going to become the Count? I thought we hated the idea of that job.

>>3078404
They're a bunch of reformist idealists with the guns and balls to risk a new civil war and turn the whole house upside down, because some people they don't like were skimming taxes or something. Because nobles like themselves are playing the ancient game of politics, power, backstabbing and assassination. No one gave the the memo that it's alright as long as you don't get caught.

Killing the political leadership and assuming their position, then using violence, threats of violence and hostages to enact reforms that will change the very foundation of Dominion society can be summarised as "toppling the House".

Why couldn't they spend their energy on fucking with Bonfah and their slavery?

>... to do what?
To body the fools and restore order and stability. Under no circumstance can we allow the House to fall into anarchy or god forbid, democracy, while all the barons are out at war. Their methods are wrong and the traitors will hang for what they've done.

>>3077007
>>3077130
Don't give a rat's ass about her problems at home, if she needs these snot-nosed morons to rule the House to solve issues in her own Barony she is unfit. Plus she has all but declared for the traitors so whatever sympathy I might've felt has been thrown out the window. Sonia did more with less even if it was without benefit or even detrimental to her health and career.

>>3078404
>Are they actually trying to topple the House?
They are trying to reform the House and through their actions causing it to rapidly disinterested. They are also doing so through murder and open revolt as they murdered the Count, even if I hope he is still alive, and overthrew the capital.

>... to do what?
Best case scenario? Retake the capital and put the entire leadership of the Emergency Council on a cross for treason and murder. Worst case? Quickly end the civil war and put down the traitorous Baron(s) who join with the revolutionaries.

Catastrophic case scenario? Hightail it out of the House and join with Ber'Helum as we watch what we've spent about 7 years IRL time on building crumble before our eyes.

>>3078430
>Not running back to the dyson sphere and do two laps around the time dilation field and emerge 200 years later and live a life of adventure

>>3078374
>Jed Enright and his entire ACC crew KIA
>Not one even seems to notice.
>That certified badass has been pulling crazy stunts with Sonia since the Warlords Campaign
I think we hadn't seen anything of that guy for years in real time at that point.

Anons opinions of Sonia's standings among J-D Barons.

Current standings of Barons present.

Saputo: Currently held on Torrun, friend and ally to Sonia and likely to side with her once freed.

Xisoth: Holding down territory in former Erid territories. Might possibly break from J-D if a civil war happens and reform Erid so as to preserve resources and his position. Is an ally of Sonia's.

Alexander: Regrouping with remnants of the Home Fleet and heading to Dreminth as we speak. Is going to lose his system if civil war breaks out, as one of the seven or the Ruling House will enact whatever agreements were made to get his project up and running.

Avun: Holding down the DRH1 relay. Is a friend of Sonia's, loyalty to house is wavering since they swore to the Count who is supposedly dead. So if the house were to devolve into a civil war she will likely leave. But if the house remains stable she will stay.

Daska: Friend of Sonia, is holding down the South Reach territories. Has had to recuse herself from the current political conflict because her family is tied into some allegations of corruption.

Tenni: New Baron who has not had a lot of time to develop their world or establish a system to make it more cooperative. Is only seeing the carrot and ignoring the ledge.

Current standings of Barons afield.

Archivald: Is loyal to the old Council and Count Jerrik. Is a friend of Sonia's. Prefers stability, will likely be extremely pissed off upon return to see his world and house in its current state upon return. Has deep ties and connections to make these rebels lives hell when he returns. Is most likely to be in line for being the next Count due to experience.

Dremine: Loyal to the old Council and Count Jerrik, will likely blow a gasket upon return for what these rebels have done. Also has deep ties and connections to make these rebels lives hell when he returns. Is also in likely in line to be the next Count due to family ties to the Count.

Jor'run: Newer Baron will likely side with whoever gives him better offer.

Kharbos: Friend of Sonia's, will likely side with her unless the Emergency Council or whatever New Council can offer him something better than Sonia.

Nel'odym: Friend of Sonia's, highly likely to side with her. Unless the Emergency Council/ New Council can some how offer him something better then what Sonia can promise.

Winifred: Sonia's mentor, has proven in the past to be for positive change and stability in the house that moves it forward. Probably would be okay with what the rebels have done. But will disapprove of their methods.

Nilium: Deployed, no info on them, likely to side with whoever offers them a better deal.

Drake: Sonia's protege is stuck with a highly populous world same with Tenni. But unlike Tenni, knows how to handle a difficult situation and make the best of it. Will likely side with Sonia.

>>3078528
If Sonia were to try and be the next Count of House J-D, I would optimistically give her ten of the the fifteen Barons, giving her a super majority. Conservatively, I would say five of them would likely side with Sonia in a bid for title of Count which is three less than she would need to have minor majority of the houses Barons. Though she could certainly persuade some of them to support her. It would just be difficult to compete against the likes of say Archivald and Dremine who have some valid claim to being the next Count.

But we're interested in learning which ones would support us in efforts against these rebels aren't we? Of those Barons not deployed, we have Alex and Saputo (When released). Those who are on the fence/ unable to act would include Daska, Avun, and Xisioth. Avun is likely to leave and seek a new house if J-D devolves into civil war. Xisioth might not say it, but will likely also break away from J-D if a civil war happens. So as to preserve his holdings and recreate Erid. Daska cannot act due to family being implicated.

>>3078412
>>3078430

Trying to wrap my head around this one...

Have the rebels/reformers made public any of those communications between Count & Governor Rna that were used to accuse us of Treason?

I have to wonder if the contents would make us change our stance, though I am aware that previously the offer made for us to access those files was deemed treason.

>>3078412
>bunch of reformist idealists

I tend to recall Sonia having at least a mild distaste for the ancient games of politics, power and backstabbing? Wasn't that kind of why the Count and the now-Emperor trust us?

>>3078454
True, and that is a shame.

>>3078528
>>3078532

This helps greatly, anon!

>>3078556
>Wasn't that kind of why the Count and the now-Emperor trust us?
The count told Sonia that he believed her when she said she didn't want his job.

>True, and that is a shame.
We should hold a reunion. 20 years since the warlord campaign started should be coming up soon enough that beginning with preparations should make sense.

>>3078556
>I tend to recall Sonia having at least a mild distaste for the ancient games of politics, power and backstabbing?

Yes, but she is still fiercely loyal to House and Dominion, and to the system of meritocracy that allowed her to reach the heights she has. Loyalty is paramount in Dominion society, it's the one thing that makes the whole thing work.

She also holds a very healthy distaste for destroying your own House from the top.

>>3078528
>Winifred
Honestly I think she'll be disgusted with them and secede from the House if they win, or too many of their changes become reality.

>Daska
Will likely follow Winifred due to proximity and distance to the core worlds. She's shown a dislike for her own family's dealings and might use it to cut ties.

If we can get her family out I'm certain she would be on our side but it's unlikely her fleet will arrive in time.

Remember how the initial rebellion started because they wanted to get rid of the Governor of Dremine, which likely would have happened anyone given the intel leaks? Then they used it just to get rid of everyone.

So I've completed my catch-up and have to ask.

Do we have any way to challenge these elections based on the fact that an unknown percentage of the population is quite literally held in duress by their occupation/rebellion?

Does Sonia get a vote on her world of origin? Technically she owns property on the world and is not a registered voter elsewhere. If the upstarts are saying that the people of those worlds have the unalienable civil right to vote for Governor, they are potentially violating the civil rights of both Sonia and every deployed member of the military from those worlds. Class Action Lawsuit? Are there independent observers in place to verify election results and that no coercion of voters occurs? Presumably in line with the laws of Surekah, Daska's world, House Veritas, the Terran Republic, or another democratic House?

And the possibility that one or more of these upstarts could, in fact, be under the influence of Empire Neeran shenanigans in order to destabilize the Dominion? Would any of these upstarts potentially have been exposed to Neeran on the front like that Shallan on the sphere?

>>3079082

So like the US's latest midterms. Hold off giving a final verdict on any votes until everyone is back? That could be a delaying tactic.

>>3079095

Primarily as a delaying tactic, but also as a legit lawsuit that could invalidate any results of their rushed elections.

As a bonus, we might even divide their internal solidarity or strip away civil support by pointing out that they are effectively screwing over every last military member from those worlds that is stationed elsewhere or on the front lines at this moment. All of those military member have families or at least parents, and those folks might take offense at the idea that their members may very well be fighting and dying while getting screwed over.

>>3079136
Additional thought.

There has to be some way we can paint them with the exact same brush of corruption that they are painting others with.

How do we know that they aren't inciting violence to cover assassinations just like Governor Rna did on Surekah? Could we turn the media's lack of censorship against them with comments that compare this situation to Rna's actions on Surekah? The actions we had to step in and stop?

I need to figure out an exit strategy from my current job before my hands fall off, but after I get to see an actual physiotherapist.

>>3079644
Good luck chef

>>3079082
That's all true, we've got millions out fighting and are unable to vote and they have absolutely no right to exempt them from voting. None at all.

And remember that we have millions of clone troopers at that. Gotta get in on that angle too. Are they voters or do they count as less than citizens to the traitors?

I also suggest that we refuse to refer to them by the name emergency council to avoid lending them legitimacy. Maybe not shout traitors every time but we've gotta hammer home that they have no legal rights. Occupational council? Squatting?

Also I had a thought, we've got that teenage super hacker who stole our money for fun, we should put her to work and make her dig up as much dirty money she can find on these guys. We only need a single suspicious transaction to pull the rug from under their feet.

>>3079644
Join a union or check your local labor laws? Working 36 days without a day off seems pretty questionable for a first world country.

>>3080097

>hammer home that they have no legal rights

Legally speaking, where does the House stand on emergency succession at this point? We're down the Count and the Council that can appoint a new one, unless the lone guy can declare the rest incapacitated and do a solo appointment?

There -has- to be a contingency for a decapitation strike that doesn't let usurpers install themselves into council positions and then name one of their own as the new Count.

Could we get X able Barons to declare an Emergency Count and/or council and have that recognized by allied Houses or the Emperor himself? I'd imagine that the Run Alliance and especially the Emperor's view would kill any hope of legitimacy these rebels claim.

But whom do we talk into being Count? Xisoth?

>>3080404
I refuse to believe that whatever contingency laws are in place, that they would allow a temporary council to write laws and change policy in the middle of a war, where half the ruling body is at the front line. It's impossible.

If they try to do anything aside from governing the house to ensure a smooth handover when the war is over they must be breaking even more laws than they already have.

I'm so mad at these guys. I will advocate to stonewall them in every way we can and to execute everyone we get our hands on, otherwise just bomb them from orbit.

>>3081889

This is literally the dominion. It is most certainly legal for a coup to kill the existing leadership and then seize power, changing laws as they see fit.

It is a question of if the rest of the House lets them.

And now that I'm caught up, I have to say that it seems like Sonia dragged her feet a bit and potentially made a few bad calls.

>>3080097
I'm glad to see people are understanding "malicious compliance".

Does anybody have some suggestions for improvements to the House we could propose?
There are going to be changes anyway, if only to prevent things like this from happening again, we might as well come up with some ideas to present to the other barons and council members when they're back.

>>3082044
There's no way it's legal, if it was then why does the concept of treason even exist? It would have been treason if Sonia listened to the audio log she swiped from the count's office. Are you saying that listening to his correspondence is a greater crime than killing and usurping him?

The only thing that lends a coup legitimacy is if it buys out or destroy their enemies. When the coup has removed all obstacles it becomes the new government, as long as there is anyone willing and able to fight them it's all up in the air. Why do you think they are in such a hurry to be legitimized by us and the remaining barons? They want to be considered the legitimate government before the rest of the House returns home, so that they will have the legal right to brand them traitors when they try to dispose of them.

I mean if it was actually legal to murder your way to the top then the turnover rate for politicians would be something in the ballpark of two weeks. If they did it /without/ getting caught it's a different story, but these guys thought that making a public play and gaining public support meant that they would be able to get away with it. Unfortunately for them, it won't be so.

>>3083644
We've already agreed to some very minor pushes, though, and that's radical enough as it is. It's going to be one hell of a ride for us if Sonia takes advantage of this situation, the other barons and nobles from other houses aren't stupid. They'll see the maneuver for what it is.

When the old team is back and we sit down to assess the fallout then we can test the waters if necessary.

>>3083644
The rebels are already demanding all of the possible improvements that I see as being tolerable.

I can't imagine how any sort of democratic reforms will impact our allies/neighbors views of the House positively.

>>3083662
>There's no way it's legal, if it was then why does the concept of treason even exist?

Treason has always existed in order to punish the people that fail their attempt. If you kill the king, crown yourself and no one objects, you are still the new king.

The issue we seem to face right now is getting them with treason charges / avenging Count Jerik without tearing the House apart. God, the Count would hate us for that


Minor note, I can't seem to locate where Baron Tenni is ruler of, only that it was recently conquered in the civil war? Any chance it is near House Feron space and we could get a favor to have them move a fleet to 'threaten' Tenni's world? Maybe pay them a few hundred million to fly an RTS IFF for long enough that Tenni has to reconsider a full fleet deployment from her world?

>>3083677
>The rebels are already demanding all of the possible improvements that I see as being tolerable.
I meant reforms that account for the much larger spread of the House across multiple galaxies instead of a handful of systems in one area. I don't care about democratic reforms but the changing realities in the House have to be adressed, and it seems like the count didn't get very far on that front.

>>3083677
>Any chance it is near House Feron space and we could get a favor to have them move a fleet to 'threaten' Tenni's world?

I'd like a map of J-D space, neighbours and highlight the House's and Sonia's personal allies. And a list of favors we can cash in- did we ever call in the one owed by the Krath? What mercenaries can we contact, are the Knights Errant available or still locked down with the fuckery going on with their homeworld during the civil war? We did do them a solid with the tournament and the ship upgrades/donations. And what about Eshik Medel? We need people running interference.

Remind me what happened with Ferigold, did he die/retire already? We can use his company to disrupt trade with the emergency council.

>>3083689
I dunno how you even begin to solve those issues, aside from keeping the barons loyal to the count. It's just one of those issues that empires have and good luck dealing with them in any satisfactory way.

Would anyone else support a move to call on allied Houses (minus B'H while they act as a neutral party) to recognize (Sonia, Alex, Daska, Xisoth, Avun, by name) as the legitimate representatives of Jerik-Dremine at this time?

If we can isolate the upstarts from being politically recognized as legitimate by our allies, that greatly strengthens our hand. Even more so if we get any members of the Seven to recognize our loyalist group as legitimate, and Sonia personally has connections to at least 2 (Helios & Ceres) that could be called upon.

Not like this, damn it

>>3083819

We will owe them favors. But we could call upon the run Alliance and others we have had positive/ beneficial dealings with in the past. I would be okay with it, but if we do do this, it could very well put us on the path to being the next Count(ess). Which I am not sure how many anons would be for.

>>3083851

>path to being the next Count(ess)

I also hate that idea, but without a leader emerging among the loyalists I can only see a rebel victory in this situation.

They've declared Fox's kid their leader, and if we remain fractured our House's allies are going to support the group presenting stability, not the shattered loyalists.

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>>3083742
>I'd like a map of J-D space
This isn't quite what you asked for but it's what I've been using to keep track of the various Barons and their worlds in the House. Made one on paper when the rebellion started that was a bit messy.

I'm a simple man, so what would happen if we just went in and killed all the coup leaders? Just kill 'em.

>>3084072

>What would happen?

Civil War is a guarantee. After which would follow a conflict of succession. And J-D dissolving into warring barons and eventually being absorbed by surrounding houses.

>>3084072
Guaranteed civil war and devastation to the house. JD if it survives will be left to a few homeworlds and won't be a power anymore. To be fair, even as we negotiate the chances of avoiding a civil war are slim. I think we'll need a backup plan on what we're going to do when shit hits the fan. Join Ber'helum?

>>3084072

An outright conflict without first establishing a leader/framework to keep J-D intact would most likely end up with:

J-D homeworlds in ruins
Erid 2.0 under Xisoth (or whomever killed him)
And the remaining J-D 'colony' territories declaring independence (by relay at the highest, worst case each world running off to a different House)

>>3084113
>backup plan

Honestly, I'd say the best case would be:
We take as many worlds as are willing to follow us and join Ber'helum until such a time as they can part us out to new Houses or form a new House from the remains.

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>>3084072
You'd have to fight a couple million militia and army along the way.
Unless you mean stealth assassination with Recon teams. You'd have to take them all out or things would turn ugly fast.
Even then while some might give up, for others it might trigger worse reactions. A short lived civil war would be the best case scenario.

>>3083742
>highlight the House's and Sonia's personal allies.
Most of the Houses surrounding the homeworlds are on good standings with J-D. House Feron is allied (separare from the Run Alliance) due to events of the Civil War.

>a list of favors we can cash in-
Very few people want to get involved in a House's civil war. You could call in favours but you'd owe them as a result, or have some other cost.
>did we ever call in the one owed by the Krath?
I think you did in the Civil War?

>What mercenaries can we contact,
Few. Many are being paid well to take part in the invasion of Neeran space. There are mercenaries with ground troops available in DRH1 that the rebels tried to hire. You've paid them enough to keep them busy so nobody else can potentially hire them to cause trouble in your backyard.

The Shallan mercenaries in Medel space are available. It has been decided to hold off on hiring them until you've seen how the negotiations go.


>are the Knights Errant available or still locked down with the fuckery going on with their homeworld during the civil war?
The Knights Errant group that you knew before the civil war has effectively ceased to exist. They have largely been absorbed into what is now the Knights of the Dominion. An organisation committed to combating external threats to the Dominion. They're sponsored by a number of Houses including but not limited to House Helios.

>We did do them a solid with the tournament and the ship upgrades/donations.
The tournament was for the benefit of older less well off Knights in J-D space to upgrade to Battleships.

>Remind me what happened with Ferigold, did he die/retire already? We can use his company to disrupt trade with the emergency council.
He was planning to retire. A small number of your Recon suit specialists volunteered to go on a mission for him to retrieve... something. While he has continued to step back from regular duties and delegate more to underlings his health seems to have dramatically improved. He also seems a bit different since the success of the mission. If possible even more eccentric than usual.

A few people are worried he may have had himself cloned.

>>3084143
>You'd have to fight a couple million militia and army along the way.
Doable considering we got some two million battle hardened soldiers and aerial superiority. That is if we even go that path and don't just bomb the shit out of them from orbit. The only thing that is a problem in my book is what space assets they can scrap up along with what Tenni the Traitor can bring along.

>>3084143
>You could call in favours but you'd owe them as a result, or have some other cost.

I'd imagine we can at least get some mileage out of "the rebels are calling for democracy" as far as requests to recognize the loyalists as the legitimate J-D party at this time. I doubt our neighbors or allies, especially the folks dealing with that one world in the run, would be thrilled at the idea of accepting a coup of youngsters giving the people power.

For the next day negotiations go back and forth, neither side letting up on certain key points. Fortunately the Emergency Council wants to keep to their word regarding release of certain key nobles that haven't been charged.

Their release is publicly announced and council speakers make sure to play this up to the media as a step towards ensuring a peaceful transition.

They're making it clear to you and the public that it's now up to the Barons to do the right thing. The ball is in your court.

It takes another six hours but Fadila lets you know that Baron Saputo is offworld. With his release he collected a small number of aids, bodyguards and family members then arranged transport off of Torun using one of his privately owned civilian ships.

"Where is he headed?" you ask.
"Into House Hase'tos space. Torun has strong trade connections there." replies Fadila.

Vanderwal doesn't seem terribly pleased with that.
"So does Governor Holtby. Things have worked out a little too conveniently for him."

Fadila agrees but points out that the Baron can reach secure communications more quickly from there.
"It also means he can't be intercepted between Torun and the outer colonies." you admit.
Even going the long way around Saputo should be able to get to Alex's fleet in under a day while safe in neighbouring territory.

It isn't long after Saputo reaches Hase'tos space that you're contacted. His family is away and secure, headed to a distant neutral House to ride things out. Once coms are secure you update him on events.

"It's just as bad as I thought. You've done well organizing things and keeping it from spilling over into open conflict so far." Saputo tells you.
"Now, we need to hold a conference call among the Barons that are here. Look at the state of the House and determine how we can best apply ourselves."

[ ] Conference call, all available Barons
[ ] Exclude Tenni

>>3084220
>[ ] Conference call, all available Barons

>>3084220
>[x] Conference call, all available Barons
At the end of the day, Tenni is a baron and has to have a word in this if we're planning to find a solution that can be presented as the decision of the barons currently present in House space. Maybe the other barons can convince her not to openly support the council unless things turn really ugly.

Make sure to route the call through Ber'helum. I'd rather have them listening in instead of the council.

>>3084220

>[ ] Conference call, all available Barons

Tenni is still a Baron and should be included. She may be siding with the Emergency Council, but if we want to work with her, and I do, to prevent a civil war and unnecessary blood shed. Then we have to include her in this.

>>3084220
[ ] Conference call, all available Barons

Should at the very lest mention that Tenni is looking very traitorish and we are going to have to get her back on track, or failing that we will have to waste manpower on destroying her and her fleet.

>>3084220
[x] Conference call, all available Barons
[x] Include the Councilmember that escaped with Day

We need all hands on deck, but I agree that Tenni might be a traitor.

We should make a point of keeping military details scant until we can get a feel for everyone, or agree on the chain of command/succession?

>>3084220
>[ ] Conference call, all available Barons
>Inform everyone of her actions first

>>3084250
>Should at the very lest mention that Tenni is looking very traitorish
>>3084288
>Inform everyone of her actions first
This will be included in updating Saputo before the conference call.

>>3084294
Maybe we can Sting her by mentioning something off-hand, like we've got a hidden team ready to move on the hostages to see how they react. That way we can determine if Tenni is leaking or not.

>>3084220
> [ ] Conference call, all available Barons

But pre-call our guaranteed allies to let them know she has rebel sympathies as well.

>>3084310
It should be something they can act on, but not bad enough that they break off negotiations or find us untrustworthy. Leak coordinates to somewhere we've got eyes by implying we have ships or troops somewhere that they can move to verify, but far enough that it's not an actual threat

Routing the call through the Ber'helum embassy, you establish communications with all of the J-D Barons currently available. Everyone is provided the latest updates. All but 2 of the old Council has been released and are making through way to Edanis. They're under escort provided by the Emergency Council until they reach the border.

Saputo sums up the military situation, as much for his own benefit as anyone else.
"We have superior military capacity but lengthy supply lines. While the industry in the Erid territories can supply us if needed, the bulk of the shipyards we have access to are a week's travel from here. Theirs are much closer.
To our advantage we have a heavy carrier that will be operational soon. Our medium cruisers are also much more numerous. The loss of EBON means that we likely do not have starfighter superiority, not when there are entire PDFs that need to be taken on. Point defense may even those odds.

Lastly, any war we fight runs the risk of major shipyards being seized by the larger Houses to protect them. Or it risks sundering the House."
"Not to mention the resulting civilian casualties and damage to industry." mentions Xisoth.

"All the more reason we should negotiate." says Tenni.

You try your best to silence a sigh of annoyance despite having decided to negotiate already yourself.
Daska and Alex make it clear they want the House fully restored with no changes to laws or systems of leadership if possible. Even with the risks spelled out Alex is fully prepared to take a chance with an invasion.

Avun and Xisoth both reluctantly admit that their loyalty was to Count Jerik, not necessarily the House. Neither of them have any intention of breaking away, but other than maintaining their positions they don't really have much reason to fight or support the Emergency Council. Avun did warn you about this previously.

Daska is not happy with Avun, Xisoth or Tenni, accusing the three of them of turning traitor. This kicks off an argument with Avun and Daska trying to talk over each other.
"-told them we shouldn't have let you in-" "-made it perfectly clear to Count Jerik where my loyalties were-"

Alex seems a bit more understanding of their position and tries to calm things down. Eventually Saputo orders everyone to clear the channel.

>Cont.

"Let's be pragmatic here. Reynard has already started negotiations. One of those stipulations is that the Barons will select a new Count. That will give us a great deal of control even if only some of the other items she's pushing for are accepted.
We need the emergency council to recognise our right to selecting a Count and to acknowledge proper succession once it goes through. If both sides don't agree on the Count this is all going to go to shit faster than it already has.
Reynard, your people have some wiggle room for negotiated concessions right?"

"Yes." you admit.

"Trade one of those so the rebels will agree to our right to select a successor. Something that they won't ignore."

They wont ignore:
A) Immunity Level 4 offer changes to Level 3
B) Formation of a New Council
C) Argue for joint selection with Barons and Council

>>3084493

Can you please give further detail to the given options?

>>3084493
>B) Formation of a New Council

>>3084491
>. All but 2 of the old Council has been released and are making through way to Edanis.
Did these manage to get away previously, are they still held in custody, missing, or dead?

>>3084501
Agreed.

>>3084493

I feel like the question should be asked before any concessions are considered.

Whom is even capable of replacing Count Jerik? Xisoth and Avun have a valid position on their loyalty.

>>3084501
>A)
Negotiated immunity
>Level 3 (What Sonia is prepared to scale back to)
No immunity for ringleaders, Knights/Nobles. Judicial punishment for soldiers, PDF, militia. (No actual treason charge.)

>Level 4 (What Sonia stubbornly opened with)
Execution of the ringleaders and officers. Penal regiments for the soldiers, PDF and militia. Minimal sentences and fines for some civilians and protestors.

>B)
>Formation of a New Council
If necessary you're willing to consider the formation of a new council, but they would be made up of members chosen from each world by [s]nobility or[/s] the Count.
Of course anyone the count chooses would be the result of political decisions.

>C)
>Argue for joint selection with Barons and Council
The Barons would have to agree with a/the council when selecting a new count. This could be a new council or the old one.

>>3084511
Still held in custody on corruption charges. Their release is being worked on.

>>3084518
>Whom is even capable of replacing Count Jerik?
Not many people that Sonia directly knows.
The Dremine Council probably has a list. Though if you had any suggestions or nominations they're likely to be considered.

>>3084537
>Though if you had any suggestions or nominations they're likely to be considered.
I think there isn't anybody who Sonia knows who is skilled enough for the job AND also disliked enough by Sonia to suggest them for it.

>>3084493
>A) Immunity Level 4 offer changes to Level 3
I think the level 4 punishment is too harsh for low level people, especially those who aren't in the actual army. I'd hate to end this with the population of these worlds hating Sonia's guts.

>>3084493
> A) Immunity Level 4 offer changes to Level 3

The least satisfying personally, but the one that is least damaging to the House.

Besides, we can always ostracize them from government or assassinate them later.

>>3084493
A) Immunity Level 4 offer changes to Level 3


>>3084537
>The Dremine Council probably has a list.

That does not inspire the kind of faith I'd hoped for in a new Count. House Avun-Xisoth when?

>>3084493
>>3084537
>>3084537
Who the hell wants the job of a count? I want to ask xisoth, tennis and avun who they would follow. We need them on our side. Personally I believe harmen and archivald are the two most competent barons but shit, do they even want to?

As long as it's not Sonia...

As for the options, I say B or C. Unless we go for option A with the plan to assassinate them all later, it's off the table. C let's us stall for longer and I'm not sure of the drawbacks of option B, or seems to be the most harmless of the three

>>3084493

>A) Immunity Level 4 offer changes to Level 3

Use this and make them think themselves scott free of any retribution they rightly deserve and will get oh so very soon.

>The Dremine Council probably has a list. Though if you had any suggestions or nominations they're likely to be considered.

I will not support any noble that they nominate who has not proven themselves. The only ones I would even think about supporting are Archivald and and Dremine. Anyone else who is not a Baron currently and just some no name noble off a core world will find themselves in a head container.

>>3084605
I forgot about Dremine. Unless the nominee is one we've fought and bled with or is an old hat with a good relation to jerik there's a bullet with their name.

>>3084605
>I will not support any noble that they nominate who has not proven themselves.
>Anyone else who is not a Baron currently and just some no name noble off a core world will find themselves in a head container.
That was a bit of an issue when Jerik became Earl. Half the House had barely heard of him.

>>3084651
Who's available from the Jerik family? If they usually provide most of the candidates for the House's leader, there should be a couple available at all times. Either a failed runner-up to the last count, or somebody from an in-between generation.

Or we could switch things around and make a Dremine the count and reform the council with mostly Human members instead to keep the Human/Dro'all leadership division going but in reverse of the previous situation.

>>3084605
>>3084616

I mean... I'm not for murdering anyone that isn't a rebel. That seems a bit extreme.

>>3084651
>>3084669


My fear is they'll just elect some bum fuck noble who doesn't know jack shit and will just be a fucking pawn who will do whatever the council tells them to do. Or they will elect one of their own, who will just view us and all barons as people to be replaced, if we don't support them. At which point, I'm with angry anon, fuck J-D, go to B-H and burn Dremine to the ground with antimatter.

>>3084673

I can back that sentiment, though.

Which is why I kind of want to know who is up for Count before agreeing to even make this concession. If we don't have any faith in the possibles, the time to start negotiating favorable exit terms for Rioja and anyone else that wants to come along is pretty much now.

>>3084673
There is also the very real possibility that some of those released have instructions to elevate someone that orchestrated this entire plot, including the murder of Count Jerik.

Looking at you, Saputo.

>>3084669
Well it was more a figure of speech. They are simply not to consider.

>>3084770
I forgot to shadowrun... It is some serious bullshit if saputo is compromised

It will be some hours before the rest of the council has reached safety. Fortunately the one member to have escaped earlier with Lorraine Day agrees to share some of the candidates they had in mind. It is not a complete list. The Count's legal will is known to have contained two suggestions but it is currently inaccessible.

Archivald is on the list. It is not possible to recall him from Neeran space at this time and regular communications may not be possible for awhile. Despite this he could be made Count.

Baron Dremine would ordinarily have been excluded due to the older dro'all-human power sharing agreement that resulted from the mergers of Houses Jerik and Dremine. If the Barons are fine with it though that could easily be ignored.

Viggo Harmen, who is currently the admiral of the Diroath fleet, was being considered. He's a cousin of Troy's father and is on deployment.

The Count did leave behind family, at least one of which was being groomed for high position. Caius Jerik is skilled in matters of politics and statecraft but he still lacked experience and confidence in areas of military strategy. Count Jerik considered him to not be ready yet but still had potential.
This Jerik heir may still be in hiding on Dreminth.

Verginia Solomon is the Governor of Artà, a former Erid world. She's a retired general who was given the position after the civil war. She was appointed by the Count so that she could gain more political experience.

>>3084673
>go to B-H and burn [the salvage] to the ground with antimatter.
Anon, are you sure you're not in a snickers bar commercial?

Probably going with A it looks like.

If the Barons are going to select a new Count, do you intend the position to be temporary until the fleets return and all of the Barons can take a new vote?

Were there other suggestions for candidates?

>>3084956
>If the Barons are going to select a new Count, do you intend the position to be temporary until the fleets return and all of the Barons can take a new vote?
It would make the most sense for the barons and actual council to pick one if we want this to be a lasting decision.

>Were there other suggestions for candidates?
Alex' dad for the position of regent? He's a local, he's established, he's Human, and he seems not to be entirely crazy.
Duncan's boss, Lady ?

>>3084956

>Temporary?

I'd like it to be temporary, with the new Count having to swear an oath to the Emperor to abdicate.

>candidates?

... I'm sorry, Mike.

What about Mike Serth? All of these rebel leaders are presumably nobles playing with the lives of the lower ranks of society. How badly would Mike as Count, even if for several short months, kick that support in the teeth?

>>3084863

Archivald, is my first choice. If we do not want to be the next Count.

Dremine, is my second choice.

Viggo, no idea if they would be good or not, would need input from Troy and his father on whether to trust him or not.

Caius, maybe if he's as good as the Count, then all we would ideally need to do is have him work with Archivald and some minor deployments to get him more confident and experienced in military matters. He can of course count on the Barons to put in our words of suggestion for military matters.

Verginia, I am going to call her Virginia and you cannot stop me. I would not think her a good replacement at this time.

>>3084956

>Other suggested candidates?

Sonia (temporarily to keep the house running until the fleets return)

Alex or Daska are the only ones present who I can immediately think of of present Barons who would fit the bill.

>>3085033

>Sonia (temporarily)

I'd support it, if other parties believe there are advantages to our background in this crisis. We're the only Baron that wasn't born into the nobility, as far as I am aware. That might help us placate the people.

>>3085113
>We're the only Baron that wasn't born into the nobility, as far as I am aware.
Winifred.
Drake, sort of but not really?

>>3085206

>Winifred

Why yes, we certainly do need to suggest she be considered for the full-time position.

Headaches from Reynard!

>>3084983
>Alex' dad for the position of regent?
Interesting. I think one of his parents were supposed to become governor of Alaior after their years helping Governor Veos. Of course people might think they're bringing the former Governor's corruption with them. Putting it as an option though.

>>3084983
>Duncan's boss, Lady ?
Tatiana Bogdanić. Added.

>>3084988
>What about Mike Serth?
He has made it clear that he is no politician. Of course you could always stick him on the council to make things interesting.

>>3085033
>Viggo, no idea if they would be good or not, would need input from Troy and his father
Troy considers this distant relative to be one playing the long game. Building up the needed experience and a network of contacts before doing anything overt. He may have been planning to try for Baron of a world at some point.

>>3084537
>Formation of a New Council
Terrible options all of them desu. Wish we could glass them instead.

SURVEY TIME!

surveymonkey com/r/ T7TQ5BH

Links on the wiki and twitter.

I should probably make the argument now or never.

I'd hope that regardless of the permanent or temporary nature of the next Count, we don't elect a Count-in-being (ie - someone out of contact) or a Count that is basically elected and then immediately captured by the enemy.

A temporary Count is ideal because we can get in-theater leadership and, with the proper contract/oaths, hopefully ensure that we don't put some mastermind behind this plot into the Count's... throne? Either by plot or subversion of released parties.

>>3085113
I’d support either this or Winifred, temporarily.

At least until the rest of the barons return for a full vote.

This does very much empower Barons at the cost of the future Count’s authority - as it projects the view that we provide their legitimacy - but that’s a problem for the future.

Sonia for Count (temporary)!
Everyone has to try being a Count in their lives, even just once.

In the UK we have Viscount biscuits, I like to imagine they're sold on Rioja but with Sonia's face printed on the front.

All of you debate potentials for a new Count. Your name comes up, as does Alex's through the group fails to decide on a solid candidate before it's necessary to take a break.

Mike's unit has arrived at Robrinaan and are refuling. None of the crew are daring to risk shore leave with the homeworlds only a few hours flight away. If any cloaked ships have been sent by the Emergency Council they could strike any moment. Because of this the base is remaining on alert.

"You did what?" asks Mike when he contacts you.
"I suggested that you should be made Count temporarily. You've spent more time in the capital than I have. Think how many more contacts among the nobility you must have!"
"I guess you're not wrong on that one. Even if I can't stand being in the same room as a lot of them. None of that means I'd be able to manage the politics of an entire House. How long was Medel training for that? Eight? Ten years?"

"That's why it's only temporary."
"Sonia, I really appreciate the offer but there's no way I'm signing up for that. Why not ask Alex?"

"Because he'd be good enough at it that people would want to assassinate him."
"And they wouldn't want to kill me if I suck at it?!"
"Oh I'm sure you'd just punch them in the throat if they tried."

Mike is at a loss for words for a few seconds before finally settling on a response.
"Sonia I'm hanging up before this talk gets any weirder."

>>3085966
Nice

>>3085966
Oh come on, Mike. This isn't the worst thing Sonia has suggested you do and/or try.

I was just realizing something. Everyone is only aware of the one Heavy Carrier that is now under Alex's care and being finished to be brought into service. No one yet knows about the heavy carrier we just ordered from Ceres. None of the barons and none of the nobles, so when our heavy carrier arrives on the field. How much will that tip things in our favor? I doubt EBON's fighter compliment will matter much when you have two heavy carriers on the field.

>>3086107

I'd imagine it would depend upon what sort of fighter forces we can pull together.

If EBON has all the good fighters that weren't sent to the front and we have old crud, numbers may not count as much as we hope.

>>3086149

EBON is an old ship from the 3580's and is an aging ship. The Talos does more and can withstand more than the EBON. Also our fighter compliment is also likely more up to date then what the EBON has. Unless Archivald put forth his money to update its compliment as well instead of Dremine.

>>3086149
EBON is a Medium Cruiser fighter carrier

>>3086107
>heavy carrier we just ordered from Ceres
Did that thing actually make it through the survey?

>>3086641
It must have slipped through the samefagging.

>>3086107
>No one yet knows about the heavy carrier we just ordered from Ceres.
This is true. It should arrive at Robrinaan around the same time Sonia's fleet does.

>I doubt EBON's fighter compliment will matter much when you have two heavy carriers on the field.
NOTE: Neither of the heavies are optimised for carrying starfighters. They're meant as corvette repair docks. The Qlippoth of course also has lots of guns.

>>3086169
It has seen several modernization refits since entering J-D service, including the one it was undergoing at Dreminth.

>>3086641
>>3086782
Even after dealing with issues it had a greater than 2 to 1 majority. Before that it was winning roughly 3 to 2.

>>3086107
If those fighters are armed with SPs though...

And a quick question. We're getting a big ass ship, but does it come with a crew?

>>3086836
This is me btw.

>>3086882
No, some of the reserves from the Run and Robrinaan are being sent there.

By the time everyone has finished a short rest break the rest of the released Council members have reached the Erid territories. Xisoth has them quickly escorted to Edanis so they can participate in succession talks.

They had hoped that by the time a new Count was needed Caius Jerik would be ready to take on the responsibilities. Most of the Council is of the opinion that he is ready for the position regarding matters of state. He would simply be more dependent on military advisors in some areas.

When the Barons resume discussions the group quickly comes to the conclusion that one of the existing Barons should lead the House. Archivald, Dremine then Winifred are the top. Caius Jerik is still in consideration being 4th down the list.

This does leave the slight problem of those 3 Barons being out of contact, off fighting in the war. You'd hoped to get someone to temporarily fill the leadership position and provide

The Councilors maintain that Caius is fully qualified to handle important matters of state. The rest of you are not as certain having little experience with him.

"Avun, Xisoth, would you be willing to follow him?" you ask.
"Not right away." replies Xisoth.
Avun agrees. "I don't know him, but I'd be wiling to adopt a wait and see approach if the rest of you think he's needed. If he doesn't work out I'll back Archivald when he returns."

[ ] Caius to be given the position temporarily (Speeds up negotiations)
[ ] Announce for Archivald. Get info to him and await reply (Delays negotiations)

>>3086923
>Caius to be given the position temporarily

>>3086923
Isn't Caius Jerik still in hiding on Dreminth, or worse, captured or killed already?

What the hell?

>>3086923
>[ ] Announce for Archivald. Get info to him and await reply (Delays negotiations)

>>3086923
>Caius to be given the position temporarily (Speeds up negotiations)

>>3086923
>[ ] Caius to be given the position temporarily (Speeds up negotiations)

This will be a perfect opportunity for him to get some military experience. Keeping the Barons from killing the rebels.

"Isn't Caius Jerik still in hiding on Dreminth? How is that supposed to work?"

One of the older councilors speek up. "He's still alive and in hiding at a safehouse. One of my contacts can signal him to leave the planet now that occasional civilian flights are being permitted. Or he could remain on planet and the rest of you could collect him when your fleets arrive at the capital."

>>3086923
>>3086931

>[X] Announce for Archivald. Get info to him and await reply (Delays negotiations)

An option that risks instantly becoming captured by rebel forces is strategic suicide.

>>3086947
Aaaannnd if anyone is a traitor I just got him captured. damn it, me.

>>3086923
>This does leave the slight problem of those 3 Barons being out of contact, off fighting in the war.
Can Archivald, if elected Count and while in absentia, delegate his authority to us temporarily - thereby allowing us to negotiate and rule, without actively claiming the title for ourselves?

>>3086923
>[ ] Announce for Archivald. Get info to him and await reply (Delays negotiations)

DELAYED

Also it's not like Archivald is forced to accept the position. TSTG, is there anything preventing a count from abdicating? A minimum term or something like that?

>>3086982
I suppose that could be done.

>>3086985

TSTG, back in the Sphere, we were loaned a piece of tech to let us talk to anyone who had the receiver end at instantaneous speeds. Could we not ask to have it loaned again? So we can talk this out with Archivald, or am I remembering things incorrectly?

File: i-have-no-memory-of-this-place.jpg (41 KB, 628x762)

41 KB JPG

>>3086992
Can't say I remember. You were out of contact with people a few times on the sphere.

The Rovinar have quantum entanglement communications systems. They do have limitations and are expensive but that'd be your best bet.

>>3087000

How many monies (favors) would that take? To get said device out to Archivald and to us?

>>3087003
You could buy them with actual money. To get a system powerful enough to reach into enemy territory would cost more than 100 million. One of the receivers could be mounted on a long range battleship which would provide enough power and get it there quickly. Best case deployment time would be 3 weeks.

>>3087003
Aren't the Rovinar the guys who don't understand favors?

If we are electing Archivald to delay negotiations, do you want to use the quantum communicator to to speed things up, or to talk to him privately while everyone is waiting for snail mail?

Getting one of those to him might be a very good idea though, it will let us speak with the deployed barons and draw up a plan without anyone knowing.

>>3087008

>100 million seni to talk to person who is highly likely to be next count

I say that counts as a needed expenditure. Whether he wants to be the next count or not. He needs to know shits gone down and he's next in line. Boy this is going to fuck with his military planning.

>>3087010
Yeah, I want Archivald in on this now. Make him aware and learn whether or not he has any care/ plans to be the count.

I know he was trying to retire at the end of the Dominion Civil War, I wonder how much he is going to hate us for delaying his retirement again. By putting him into an even more stressful job then shooting neeran.

>>3087008
What sort of delay are we looking at for communications without this 100 million credit relay?

Not to hate on the council's Or our? military thinking, but is there a 3rd option that isn't either surrounded by rebels or minimum of 3 weeks away from communication?

>>3087042
It might be possible to get the occasional message to and from him before that 3 weeks but there could be delays each subsequent time. The Rovinar system would allow continuous communications once it gets there.

>is there a 3rd option that isn't either surrounded by rebels or minimum of 3 weeks away from communication?
Sonia (Temporary) is 6th on the list.

While it looks like there is a split vote on who to settle for you can still put things in motion for either eventuality.

1) How do you wish to carry out communications with Archivald?
1A) Conventional (Intermittent messages, random delay length)
1B) Rovinar QEC (3 week deployment time, instant coms once active)

2) What steps do you want to take to secure Caius? As one of the potential successors he is valuable. The Barons haven't been given his actual location yet, just that he's on Dreminth. You could probably take steps without letting Tenni know.
2A) Council signals him to get off world
2B) Tell Tatiana Bogdanić to get him out
2C) Send Recon team for extraction
2D) Retrieved when Fleets arrive at Dreminth to negotiate*

>>3087050

>1B) Rovinar QEC (3 week deployment time, instant coms once active)

can we combine
2B) Tell Tatiana Bogdanić to get him out
2C) Send Recon team for extraction

Have her work with our recon teams to secure and extract him from Dremine and out into space?

If that cannot be arranged I choose.
2D) Retrieved when Fleets arrive at Dreminth to negotiate*

>>3087050
>1B) Rovinar QEC (3 week deployment time, instant coms once active)
>2B) ASK Tatiana Bogdanić to get him out
Intel has been trying to stay neutral, so ask if she'd be willing to do this. If they can't risk to get involved or are busy with keeping secrets, well, secret, that's okay.
>2D) Retrieved when Fleets arrive at Dreminth to negotiate*

>>3087050
>1B

>2D

Maybe send down a recon team to keep an eye on/be on standby for when the fleet arrives? Are these guys with stealth suits?

>>3087050
>1B) Rovinar QEC (3 week deployment time, instant coms once active)
>2C) Send Recon team for extraction

>>3087056
>can we combine
>2B) Tell Tatiana Bogdanić to get him out
>2C) Send Recon team for extraction

It will take longer for your recon teams to reach the planet. Arron is still a day out from the capital. The head of House black ops probably has a few such teams of her own. Vanderwal has previously warned that there is a slight chance info could leak from intel the rebels since intel as a whole has been trying to remain neutral. Bogdanić has been at this long enough that those chances are lower.

The Ruling House was planning to keep an eye on the situation. You could see if they had any teams nearby that could attempt a rescue.

>>3087072
Well I trust the Ruling House, so I'm not opposed to that.

>>3087072

I trust them the ruling house, but we've got a list of favors that we will need to pay back to the emperor after this. And he did say no using their embassies for black ops missions, not sure if that extends to having their own units being used in such manner. So I'll just hold off and say, wait until the fleet is in system so we can extract him.

>2D) Retrieved when Fleets arrive at Dreminth to negotiate*

>>3087050
> 1B) Rovinar QEC (3 week deployment time, instant coms once active)

>2B) Tell Tatiana Bogdanić to get him out / see if the Royals will work with you

A communications system will be purchased and both halves transported to where they'll be needed. The receiver at your end will be sent to Robrinaan. Close to the homeworlds but out of reach of the rebels for now.

Once that's taken care of you have Vanderwal send a message to Tatiana Bogdanić to get Caius off the planet as soon as possible. If he can't be retrieved from Dreninth you'll be siding with naming Archivald as Count immediately even if it complicates and delays matters.

It takes more time of course but soon Vanderwal informs you that he's certain the message got through without being intercepted.

Writing scenes the players will never see.

A few hours after that you're called in by the diplomatic team. The Emergency Council wishes to know if you or your allies have a cloaked ship in orbit. They've detected what they believe to be an attack cruiser sized vessel while testing deployment of a detection grid. You don't know if Bogdanić is using a transport or a cloaked ship to get Caius off planet, but if they are it's cover has been blown.
There is a chance the Ruling House has a ship monitoring events already in system.

[ ] Deny you have a ship there
[ ] You can't confirm or deny
[ ] Ask for time to check
[ ] Yes we have a ship there

>>3087263
>[ ] Deny you have a ship there

>>3087263
>[ ] Deny you have a ship there
They should ask the Ruling House and while they're at it, they could call the Seven too and our neighbours, rival and hostile houses.

It's not like their coup is an isolated incident, everyone is watching and waiting to take advantage.

>>3087263
[x] Deny you have a ship there

If we had a cloaked ship in orbit, at least three of them would be getting stabbed violently right now. Or they'd be extremely conductive.

>>3087263
>[ ] Ask for time to check
"I have no knowledge of a cloaked ship operating on Dremine."

>>3087263
>[x] Ask for time to check
"I am currently not aware of any cloaked ships operating under my orders. Considering how many different parties must have taken note of our internal troubles at this point, I would however recommend to think well about any actions you might intend to take in response."

>>3087306
Supporting

>>3087306
On second thought, it might be the Terrans.

>>3087416
I'd expect that the Terrans would be using a battlecruiser or the Rovinar embassy, myself.

>>3087286
>>3087279
>>3087269
Because of the tie I'll go with first to 3 in this case.

You deny having any ship in system, though you do caution them to consider that other Houses may be taking note of J-D's internal troubles.

After thanking you the Emergency Council orders civilian ships out of the area and begins broadcasting on an open channel. They request that any cloaked ship on that bearing reveal themselves and declare their intentions. Provided they comply they'll be permitted to withdraw. If they fail to respond within the next 30 seconds they'll be fired upon.

From what you can make out from the Emergency Council's end of the line, civilians ships scatter as the planetary defenses power up.

"Do you really think anyone with a cloaked ship would respond to that?" you ask your advisors.

Fadila isn't certain but doubts it. Vanderwal thinks the results will be entertaining either way.

The cloaked vessel flees the system but not before some of the heavy phase cannon fire from the defense platforms strike it. While attack cruiser sized it was the wrong shape to be a nocturn class. Its jump has an unusual signature and what readings the locals sensors could acquire showed that it was most definitely not built by the Dominion.

Keegan Fox suggests to the council that the sensor data be sent to the Factions Alliance and shared with the Barons as soon as possible.
"Viscount Reynard thank you for your assistance. We'll send you what data we collect on the ship shortly."

>>3087463
Oh god. The Terrans sent krath. Adrenaline needles for every single noble on that planet.

>>3087463
How does a Terran Spec/Black Ops ship just get 'detected' with that much precision? Maybe I'm just being paranoid but could there be ulterior motives here?

And I have to head out to do some laundry. Back later.

>>3087477

Mandatory adrenaline injections for all Emergency Council members and rebel supporting nobles.

>>3087477
>>3087556
Adrenaline injections had already stopped working by the time Sonia escorted the delegates from the Union remnant to Kavarian space.

>>3087500
>How does a Terran Spec/Black Ops ship just get 'detected' with that much precision?
The same way the attack cruiser wing Mike commanded at one point in the civil war did. You need a network of ships with high power sensor arrays forming a net. Your House has had nearly 10 years to work on the concept and try to develop countermeasures.

Also you don't need a ton of precision when you're volley firing a few hundred phase cannon from an entire planet's orbital defenses.

>Maybe I'm just being paranoid but could there be ulterior motives here?
Very possible.

>>3087977
>few hundred phase cannon
That makes more sense, I didn't realise it was such a number firing, I thought they'd nailed it down a lot more.

>>3087977
We should send them a thank you note for testing the rebellions defenses for us.

Speculation about who's cloaked ship was in orbit of Dreminth quickly becomes the equivalent of office gossip rather than an actual debate. The merits of whether the ship was Terran, Krath or some other faction is overshadowed by concerns that this was staged.

"I don't think it was staged." Saputo concludes. "The upstarts don't want to be associated in any way with the Terrans. That would give surrounding Houses a Casus belli claiming the House was being invaded like with Aries. We'd lose the shipyard."

"All the more reason to look like they're chasing off the Terrans." counters Daska. "Give a strong showing for being anti-terran and remove any doubts people might have."

Alex thinks it had to be the Krath. "Its silhouet, what we could see of it, was the wrong shape and looked more like a Krath ship."

You're sent data from the emergency council once they recover pieces of debris shot off the ship as it escaped. Materials are faction standard using an odd variation of stealth coating combined with phasing lattice. Sublight engine readings were similar to those of GE series drives if they'd been mounted in stealth baffles like on the Nocturn. Not much was detected but it was fairly close to the planet.

"It was Terran." you announce, much to the dismay of those counting on Krath.

Saputo strokes his beard in thought. "I didn't think the Terrans had any ships like that."

"They do now." Vanderwal says uploading an image from the most recent edition of the Factions Alliance warship recognition guide.
"This is a Black Pearl ECM cruiser, though I’d guess this one was optimised for a slightly different role.”

“Why would the Terrans be monitoring the situation on Dreminth so closely?” asks Xisoth.
Everyone else looks to you leaving Xisoth to wonder what’s going on.

[ ] I dont know
[ ] I’m not saying anything over coms, even encrypted ones.
[ ] Maybe warn Bogdanić in case she hasn't noticed

>>3088242
"I have been on many missions."

[x] Maybe warn Bogdanic

>>3088271
>>3088242
This. I like how vague it is, but at the same time gets the message across.

>>3088271
Nice. Supporting this.

So the five dollar question: did they get enough intel from what they stole from Duncan?

I wonder if they extracted their operatives

>>3088242
>[ ] I’m not saying anything over coms, even encrypted ones.

>>3088242
>I’m not saying anything over coms, even encrypted ones.

>>3088242
What, does everyone but xisoth know about the Terran list of things they want to charge us with trying to steal?

>>3088242

This anon hit it good. >>3088271

>>3088242
>[x] Maybe warn Bogdanić in case she hasn't noticed
"Maybe they're still holding a grudge over Versa and the other AIs?"

At least we can now spin a story about Terran influence on the suspiciously democratic emergency council if we have to.

>>3088558
After thinking some more about this I change my vote to
>I’m not saying anything over coms, even encrypted ones.
she probably already knows, and Sonia should just stay out of this.

>>3088271
Supporting

“I have been on many missions.” You say, not wanting to give any details over coms.

Xisoth considers asking a question then stops himself and shrugs. “Clearly I dont need to know. Hopefully they’ve been driven off before accomplishing whatever they were in orbit for.”

You decide to warn intel to make sure they’re in the loop. Hopefully they dont need to make an emergency audit of their facilities that might give away their positions. That would just make things more difficult down the line.
Hopefully Duncan is okay, you know he’s one of the few people with knowledge of the SP weapon data.

Whatever the reason for the Terrans being in orbit the distraction has managed to cover the escape of Caius Jerik. Though the entire ordeal was fraught with peril he’s managed to reach safety. The ship he is on is currently headed for Alaior under heavy escort. With that taken care of the Barons now have their potential successor, even if only a temporary one.

A few of the others are a bit surprised you didn’t even tell them you were working on an extraction plan. Saputo is easily the least surprised, glad that things worked out.
“This should make things much easier.”

The Dremine Council is quick to support Caius to take on the position of Count to move the process forward. Many of the Barons are reluctant, still thinking him unproven. This could quickly lead to a major disagreement between the Barons and the old council if a solution is not agreed upon soon.

Who will be named Count of House Jerik-Dremine? Since it was a tie earlier.

[ ] Caius (Temporary)
[ ] Archivald (Continued delays)

Gone to work!

>>3086950
samefag my ID seems to be variable due to work comp

Will change to
>[X] Caius (Temporary)

Ideally with a pledge/oath to remain temporary

>>3088868
>[ ] Caius (Temporary)

>>3088868
>The Dremine Council is quick to support Caius to take on the position of Count to move the process forward.
Why not name him regent instead of count? He gets to take care of the House until the other barons return and elect somebody else or affirm him as count.

>This could quickly lead to a major disagreement between the Barons and the old council if a solution is not agreed upon soon.
Limit him to what basically amounts to a super governor for all of the House? He has no say in military matters but covers all the other responsibilities of the position. That way the council would be able to keep the regent in check like they'd normally do with the count while he can't meddle with the military.

>[x] Caius (Temporary)

>>3088868
>[ ] Caius (Temporary)
Archivald is fairly far away at this point and we need a now, Count if only temporarily. Worst case we just elect Archivald once he comes back from the front or Caius proves himself ready and thus there wont be a need for it. There are literally no negatives of giving him temporary command. We will ofcourse be there to help him out, all of us, so it is not like he can unmake the House with a single decree. Just go for the immediate stability boost and legitimacy gain we get from this and once we have reached positive stability after this is over we can bring back the subject once more to see if he is worthy.

>>3088868
>Caius (Temporary)

How will this work exactly? Swear him in on a one year period, or some other condition? Until our House's part in the Neeran offensive is over? Until our away fleet returns home?

Does Caius actually want the position at this moment and will he take offense at what is essentially a probationary assignment?

>>3088868

anon >>3088911 raises valid questions

tentatively voting for
>[ ] Caius (Temporary)

How does a temporary count work? Has a temporary count ever worked in the history of the Dominion? Has a temporary count ever stepped down peacefully when another was chosen? What do we as barons do if he takes to the role of count and neither xisioth or avun like him or any of the barons currently out on the field? Are we going to war because we made a decision and the person chosen doesn't fit but doesn't want to step down? How do we force a temporary count to step down without shots being fired? Especially if the emergency council takes to him.

And of course, does he want to be count? He may have been groomed for the political side of count but he felt weak about military decisions. This can of course be countered by assistance from personal military advisors as well as having the barons give advice and having him work with Archivald. We could have the most amazing statesman who knows how to wheel and deal the floor of a political theater if he doesn’t know how to lead or command a military theater.

I want to say, have him for the short term. So we as a House have someone to represent us, beyond these bloody usurping rebels. But I am now wondering about the hows of going about instating and removing a temporary count? We need to have a plan and agreements in place. So that during his temporary/ trial period as Count of J-D. He is aware and the council members and barons are aware, that this is temporary. And that when the fleets return, a proper count will be chosen. Be it Caius or Archivald or whoever. But the transition needs to be peaceful and we need to have things in place to ensure it is peacefully done, unlike what those regicidal fucktards in the capital did.

>>3088868
Let's wait until we have the chance to take the measure of Caius. Have we even talked to the dude?

>>3088868
Actually

>[ ] Caius (Temporary)

If we can get him recognized by the Major houses, it'll put a spike in the legitimacy of the Emergency Council.

It'll also let us delay things due to the temporary nature of his appointment, as we can't make any deals that would outlast it.

We can even make that look like a concession to the Emergency Council. Meanwhile we can continue to choke them out.

These rioters, I assume they have jobs and such to get to. Can't put that off forever.

We have the resources to outlast them. And meanwhile obstruct them in ways that give them no martyrs to rally around, no battles to arm for, no tragedies to avenge.

Just a gnawing decay and dissatisfaction to lead people towards wishing for the "good old days".

We can do things like swamp them with "relief aid" to depress local prices. Dump a bunch of bland, nutritious but boring food on the markets.

Divert the deliveries of luxuries to other buyers.

Buy out businesses stagnating in the "uncertainty".

Heck, they even let Terrans land on the Homeworld! So clearly we will have to work together for security. Let them handle the planets, and us handle Space travel. Mostly because it's far easier to build up our fleet forces and put them to work out there, whereas a large standing force on a planet will have to find SOMETHING to do to justify the cost. And if they shrink it we accuse them of shirking their duty. Not like we want to have a fight on our own planets anyways.

Oh yes. Yes, let us come to a resolution that is in no way a conclusion that can be moved past. Grief them to fucking death.

>>3088982

Another thought I’d like to add on to my previous one.

The old Council wants Caius to be the new Count, but two of the Barons present do not support him because he has yet to prove himself. Is the previous Council willing to support the Barons choice, if it turns out Caius is not fit or if he does not want to be the next Count?

I’d ask that he have an individual interview with all the Barons present, so we can all get an idea for him. And so he can get an idea for all the Barons. An interview with present Barons is the least he can acquiesce to since he's going to be working with us. But mostly to put a face and personality, next to the name. Also to give both Avun and Xisioth a chance to interact with him one on one, so they know who he is and he is made aware that he will need to prove himself to those two. Avun, so that she knows she is following someone who is just and is going to put the welfare of the people first. And Xisioth so that he can placate the nobles in former Erid space, that they are not going to be led by an anonymous face who has no ties or cares for the nobles and people of former Erid worlds. And for both of them and all of the Barons, to make it clear he needs to be surer of his military capability, as well as to improve it and prove that he is capable of leading the Barons as a military minded person of some caliber. He doesn’t have to be the next Napoleon or Patton, but he needs to be able to make military decisions that make sense and do not endanger the House or the Barons.

Also, he should be aware, cutting spending/ funding on military upkeep, just for politics sake, is going to be a bad move. The house was already starting to cut back spending on R&D to focus on expanding the fleet. We don’t need to cut back spending on the fleet, for frivolous expenditures to ensure some ass hole on planet bum fuck, doesn’t feel like they’ve been denied rights that they’ve not earned. Or spending money on elected officials who put themselves into debt just to get elected. They put themselves into debt they need to deal with that shit. It’s not the Houses responsibility to bail people out of their own fucking holes they’ve dug.

If he can’t get the support of the Barons currently present, for him, he is going to be in a bad spot when the fleet returns. Since Avun and Xisioth will most definitely support Archivald to be the next Count, when he returns.

>>3089336
We have to make sure that he doesn't sympathise with the traitors on any point and that he can't be swayed.

We need to find a way to limit his power to such a degree that he can't actually make decisions that would be in their favour. As a temporary regent, it shouldn't be difficult to limit his job to ensure stability and a peaceful transfer when the fleet returns. Of course this means no law or policy changes or plans that will need significant time to be made reality. Then we just stall and argue that the emergency council's demands fall under this category. It would really, really help if he's loyal to the house first and foremost and that he'll agree to our plans...

I think I'm going to change my vote to
>Sonia (temp)
Because then we will have full control. We know that we don't want the job and that we will give up office without issue.

>Interview Caius
we should hold off deciding until we can make a more informed decision, imo

>>3087463
>Keegan Fox suggests to the council that the sensor data be sent to the Factions Alliance

Oh no.

Doesn't that mean that we're now racing a clock before rival Houses get their hands on the data?


That said, the presence of an advanced Terran Alliance cloaked ship suggests Black Ops. And they don't appear to have been caught entering orbit, but sitting in orbit?

What are the odds that a Terran Alliance Black Ops vessel and a coup with a list of demands for -very- Terran-like changes to our form of government are completely unrelated? Because the most likely scenario now seems to suggest at least some Terran involvement in this coup.

Even if the Terrans are completely unrelated, any compromise that even looks pro-democracy is potentially ammunition for our rival Houses.

And if Fox jr is anything like his father, it makes perfect sense that he would play the part of a valuable peer to the Terrans and then attempt to stab them in the back. And like Fox Sr. it appears that Jr.'s target has slipped away...

>>3089468
True or not, I say we spread those rumors!

>>3089447

> we should hold off deciding until we can make a more informed decision, imo

Getting an interview with him, means we have a chance to see who he is and what he is about. And for him to impress us or disappoint us. Interviewing him does not mean we are going to immediately hire him for the position of count. We just want to learn about him because until now we did not know anything about him.

>>3089627

I'd suggest only pointing out the logic path to the rebels, and explaining that the longer they hold out for their demands, the more likely the chances of this information being discovered by a rival House.

And if a rival House does get their hands on that information, this course of action they have taken may force a terrible choice upon us all.

Hell, we very well may need to ask the Royal House to secure Alex's shipyard at this point, if only in the hope of protecting it from Terran Black Ops or as damage control for the loss. The idea of Terran Black Ops gaining the ability to deploy their own Alex Shipyard... is not good.

>>3089627
Completely agree!

This is great propaganda, but it can’t come directly from us. The information about the ship class needs to leak out and these claims need to form ‘organically!
>What are the odds that a Terran Alliance Black Ops vessel and a coup with a list of demands for -very- Terran-like changes to our form of government are completely unrelated? Because the most likely scenario now seems to suggest at least some Terran involvement in this coup.

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I typed out a couple posts at work but I guess I can just delete them.

>>3088883
>Why not name him regent instead of count?
Because he's already going to lose enough respect from people thinking he’s just taking on a “temporary” position.

>>3088911
>How will this work exactly? Swear him in on a one year period, or some other condition? Until our House's part in the Neeran offensive is over? Until our away fleet returns home?
Until the fleets and Archivald return home. Just how long that will be is unknown. It could be 6 months, a year, even longer. The Alliance lacks the logistics capacity to conduct large scale troop rotation every 6 months while fighting in Neeran space. They'll still get leave, but the fleets and troops will return home once they've completed their assignments.

>Does Caius actually want the position at this moment and will he take offense at what is essentially a probationary assignment?

Much like this anon suggested:
>>3088904
>Worst case we just elect Archivald once he comes back from the front or Caius proves himself ready and thus there wont be a need for it.

Caius would like the chance to prove himself. If he does a good enough job maybe he wont have to step down.

>>3088982
>Has a temporary count ever worked in the history of the Dominion?
Not in your House certainly. There have been rare cases where someone has stepped up and taken on a leadership role of a House then stepped back at a later time. Sometimes more like a regent, other times less so.
Anyone who has tried to declare themselves a regent or steward generally loses a great deal of respect from other Houses. If they're not good enough to be proclaimed that House's leader, why are they in charge?

>What do we as barons do if [the other barons dont like him.]
>How do we force a temporary count to step down without shots being fired?
A legally binding contract would be possible. Notarized by the Ambassadors of a couple other Houses felt to be neutral enough to arbitrate. So probably the Ruling House or members of the Run Alliance.

If that doesn’t work the barons hold a meeting and make it clear they’re not going to stand for his shit.

>>3089011
>Have we even talked to the dude?
It's possible Sonia has met him at one of the various balls held in the capital without realising it. There was never exactly a shortage of people at those, or relatives of the Jerik family.

>>3089336
>Is the previous Council willing to support the Barons choice, if it turns out Caius is not fit or if he does not want to be the next Count?
They were willing to support Archivald if Caius couldn't be reached or if it looked like none of you would support him. Whatever necessary to get someone into the position of leadership for the House. They may grow more reluctant to a change in government if Caius proves successful.

>>3090078
It's a very simple problem. Half the house is away. Shouldn't everyone understand what a shitshow it is to elect a new count under three circumstances?

I'll vote for Sonia in that case because frankly I don't think we players care about the hit to our rep

“Before moving forward we need a chance to talk to Caius Jerik before we finish agreeing to anything. I’m willing to back him for the moment but that’s just me. Please get him on coms so everyone has a chance to speak with him.”

The younger Jerik, physically only a year older than you, soon appears on the channel.
“I don’t think I’ve seen so many Barons from our House at once before. Even if it is through a conference call. I want to thank all of you for your loyalty to my father all these years, and I hope I can count on your support going forward.”

“As long as you understand that we’re only backing your ascension to a temporary position I think everyone would be willing to support you.”

Caius is taken off guard by this. “Wait, temporary? I thought- when and why would I be expected to step down exactly?”

“It was your father’s assessment that you were not ready to take on full responsibilities yet.” answers Saputo.
“You’ll be asked to step down when Baron Archivald returns from the war. In time he will retire and the position may return to you again.”

Caius is clearly perturbed by his father’s lack of confidence in him. Despite this he quickly brushes it aside.
“Why choose me? Why not another if the position is just to be a momentary bump until Archivald takes up the mantle?”

[ ] “Because you’re ready enough.”
[ ] “Why don’t you tell us?”
[ ] Write in

>>3090124
>[ ] Write in
Because it does not have to be temporary

>>3090124
"Because I want you to prove your father wrong, and if you handle yourself well enough, maybe Archivald will turn down the position leaving you in charge."

>>3090124
Because of your education and family ties to your father, you give us the legitimacy we need to solve this crisis. But near half of our House is out in the field. any other choice may start the civil war we are trying to avoid, if the returning armies don't accept our decision.

If others are ok with it,
>I can do it if you don't like it. I have no desire or ambition to be count and will step down at the first opportunity