Assault on Cambriol: The Manhattan Trials

by Jerry Borrowman

  Returning to the conference room, Jesik signaled for order.

  “After private communications with our planets and taking at face value Mr. Lansing’s willingness to assume responsibility for rebel atrocities, we have decided to limit the focus of this meeting to a set of specific objectives. The situation on the ground is extremely unstable at this point, so it’s vital we help form a functioning government as quickly as possible. Toward that end, we’ll restrict this assembly to just two participants from each interested party. Normally, I would select my First Officer or political officer, but because of his direct experience in the Keswick Campaign, I’ll ask Major Wilkerson to assist me in representing Kalenden.” It was a little unusual for a Fleet officer to voluntarily share authority with the Army, but Wilkerson had handled the crisis on the ground with such skill that he was the best qualified.

  Rameira surprised Jesik by asking Captain Carling, a relatively junior officer, to be his aide. In spite of the fact that he bypassed a number of more senior officers, no one in the Alturian delegation registered concern by this choice.

  The leading Loyalist Party member proclaimed that, as the legitimate government of Keswick, they should have as many representatives as they desired.

  Rameira responded to this demand with dispatch! “Gentlemen, it’s obvious from the speed with which your troops laid down their weapons after the palace coup, that the people of Keswick are ready to accept members of the rebel Coalition as their legitimate representatives. I come from a planet ruled by monarchy, yet even I can see that the time has come for Keswick to adapt. The simple truth is that you have little standing, either here or on your planet. You woefully underestimated the strength of your enemy, went against our advice of how to conduct the military campaign, and your support evaporated once the rebels captured the palace. You’re invited to stay only to provide legitimacy to the process. In return, we’ll do our best to support you and a select group of other Loyalists, but it can only be in conjunction with the rebel Coalition. In other words, you are in no position to demand anything!”

  The leader of the Loyalist group went pale and protested, but the other delegates quieted him. They were more realistic in assessing their diminished status.

  John Lansing chose his second, and the surviving group of eight went behind closed doors, where they spent the next two days working out details of an interim government, with open elections scheduled one year hence. A Unified Governing Council (UGC) would replace the rebel Coalition Council, with the Loyalist Party given eight seats in the council and authorized to form their own political party in for the upcoming elections. The rebels would also form a party, the Democrats, and have ten seats on the council. The Prime Minister would be selected by the council, with the power to appoint a cabinet to administer the bureaus and agencies.

  During the transition period, the special representative of Kalenden and Alturus would also hold a voting interest in the UGC, which meant they could effectively veto any legislative or executive action imposed by the rebel majority by choosing to vote with the eight members of the Loyalist group. The two special representatives could also block any move that in their opinion threatened the safety or continuing production of the orchidite mines. If they ever made such a decision against the advice of the local members of the UGC, their decision could be appealed to the Home Offices of Kalenden and Alturus. Once open elections were held, the special representatives would lose their seats on the council and the relationship between the two systems and Keswick would be re-negotiated, with terms depending on the stability of the new government.

  Probably the biggest stumbling block to the negotiations was the concern on the part of the Loyalists that the ruling families were essentially being stripped of all their authority. This also concerned the Alturians, who feared a precedent that might inspire a rebellion on Alturus. Jesik pointed out that those families continued to own the vast majority of businesses and real estate, which would enable them to readily afford the cost of promoting their party and interests. In the absence of estate transfer restrictions or taxes, the imbalance was likely to continue for many years, giving those historical families the same kind of edge they enjoyed on Kalenden. “It is a situation that will resolve itself over the course of time,” he assured them, “but at least the second and third-class families now have a stronger hand in participating in the planet’s political future.” Eventually the Loyalists conceded the point and surrendered claim to special recognition.

  Once the outlines of the plan had been settled, Rameira returned to his ship to communicate with Alturus, and the Keswicks returned to the planet surface to announce to the population what was proposed. A general plebiscite was scheduled for seven days hence so that the adult population could either approve the arrangement or demand additional negotiations. It would be the first open election at the planetary level ever held on Keswick.

  Even though he had plenipotentiary (unrestricted) powers in the negotiations, Jesik wanted the official approval of the Kalenden leadership, so he initiated a private Esper link with the Prime Minister.

  After lengthy discussion the plan was accepted by the Kalenden Cabinet, with private congratulations to Jesik for the peaceful settlement of the conflict.

  Rameira had a more difficult negotiation with his high command. There were many in the government violently opposed to any compromise with the rebels. Admiral Rameira argued the points to the best of his ability, but there was still indecision on the part of Alturus that threatened to destabilize the situation on Keswick even further. Finally, Rameira asked Jesik to join him in a video briefing with his leaders to explain the position of Kalenden, along with the reasoning of the peace conference. As the briefing began, Jesik could see that the Alturians both on the planet and onboard the Princeton were shocked when a senior member of the Royal Family entered unexpectedly, asking to join the discussion. His participation, however, proved to be the turning point in the discussions.

  After learning that his leadership team was divided, he asked Rameira for his recommendation.

  “With all due regard to the concerns of our leading families, I believe the situation here warrants adoption of the plan as proposed. It will maintain peace with Kalenden, assure the safety of the mines and avoid further bloodshed between first and second families. Captain Jesik has made a persuasive argument that the first families will continue their leadership role by virtue of their property ownership and experience.”

  “And what do you think, Captain Carling?” asked this unknown royal.

  Rameira stiffened as he awaited her reply.

  “I was opposed to the settlement in the beginning, because it appeared to excuse the destruction of the Royal Family. But, now I’m confident the murders were the result of a fringe element. Of course I strongly advocate monarchy, but setting my personal feelings aside, I believe the conference should be supported.”

  Jesik braced for additional questions, but there were none. The Royal simply said, “Then we are agreed. You have authority to proceed, Admiral.” He turned and strode from the room. Everyone in his presence quickly stood at attention to honor his departure. As one who had never experienced the efficiency of monarchy, Jesik was astonished by this quick acquiescence on the part of the military.

  Once the Royal had departed, the holographic image of the leader of the Alturian group turned to Rameira and said, “Admiral, you’ll have a signed copy of the protocol within the hour. Please work with our distinguished colleagues from Kalenden to encourage the population of Keswick to accept this agreement. Alturus out.”

  “I’m beginning to see some of the advantages of a monarchy,” said Jesik as everyone settled back in their seats with a sigh. “It’s breathtaking to see how quickly things happen when authority is so well defined.”

  Rameira smiled for the first time since Jesik had met him. “Captain, as an outsider you simply can’t know what a courageous decision the Royal Family just made. To formally accept a plan that ignores
hereditary leadership on a planet that is vital to our interests, shows a pragmatic flexibility of which our ministers have been incapable. Rather than being isolated from the concerns of our citizens, as appears to have happened to the Keswick monarchy, our leading family is very much in tune with current events. I’m confident that our citizens will feel even greater loyalty than before.” Rameira turned and smiled at Carling, thanking her for her participation.

  She returned his gesture and, turning to leave the room, addressed Jesik, “Captain, I came to Keswick with many prejudices, but you and your associates have made me rethink my ideas of the universe. You’re a remarkable man and we’re fortunate you were in command. Perhaps Admiral Rameira will communicate that sentiment through diplomatic channels to your superiors.”

  Jesik blushed slightly, which was not natural for him, even though it was an indirect sleight of his second class heritage. Still, the blush drew the first smile he’d ever seen on her face and he was glad.

  From that point forward, things moved quickly. During the next seven days, Jesik was busy promoting the plan on all fronts. In addition to responding to an endless list of questions from the Kalenden Quadrant Council, overseeing the completion of repairs to the Allegro and whatever fighters that could be salvaged, his senior staff conducted an internal investigation, checking if any of his crew were in league with the Alturian rebels. Fortunately, there were no signs of that.

  He also descended to the planet for two days, appearing at a number of press conferences, where he responded to reporters’ questions as well as appearing on a number of holographic video interviews. Although he didn’t consider himself suited to such activities, his participation added credibility to the plan.

  The most surprising part of the interviews, from Jesik’s point of view, was the intense interest in the Cambriol incident. His reputation had preceded him and the local talk shows even requested permission to interview Eaves and Magill, who became minor celebrities. The scene of Magill trying to save the life of the Prime Minister during the attack on the palace was replayed endlessly and created a reputation for Magill as a fearless warrior, even if it was in support of the former government. Their response to Magill showed how mixed people’s feelings were and how fragile the UGC’s hold on the government was likely to be.

  When the election day finally arrived, and the results tabulated, Jesik initiated a conversation with John Lansing. “So, today is the first plebiscite since leaving earth? How does it feel to have both questions pass with so resounding a margin?” The first question was whether to accept the Unified Governing Coalition while the second asked if Lansing and the remaining members of the former Rebel Coalition should retain their standing as members of the new Unified Governing Coalition. “It’s obvious that you will be the new Prime Minister of Keswick.”

  “It is gratifying, of course. But I have no allusions that it will be easy. People have been terrorized by all that has occurred, we have nuclear fallout to manage, and–please don’t take this wrong, but we have you and Alturus looking over our shoulders—so it will be difficult, to say the least.

  “Well, you are a man well suited to the task. We’ll try to keep our involvement to a minimum.”

  The next morning, Jesik invited Ernest Wilkerson into his office.

  “Major, I’ve recommended you as Kalenden’s Special Representative to the Keswick Unified Governing Council and our Prime Minster has authorized me to invite you to accept.”

  Wilkerson’s surprise registered immediately. “Me? A political advisor? I hardly think I’m the one; I’m a military man, not a diplomat. And frankly, I’m quite biased against the rebels. Nearly all my men were killed in the nuclear attack and the rebels were ruthless in the hand-to-hand combat we encountered trying to defend the city. I’m certain that your political officer would do a better job.”

  “Mr. Barrows would do a good job. As it turns out, though, his wife is about to have a baby back on Kalenden and he’s requested assignment to the home planet to be with her. But, even if he were available, I’d still ask you to take the job.”

  “But why, in view of my reservations?”

  “Three reasons. First, we need someone here who is skeptical and will make sure the UGC follows through on its commitments to Kalenden. I want a military man who understands what’s happening and will intervene when needed. Second, I’m convinced that you’re fair-minded and will deal with the issues that arise, based on their merit, regardless of your personal feelings. Finally, and to me this is most important, you’re a compassionate man. As I’ve talked to members of my crew, they’ve told me how you cared for Lieutenant Magill. The people of Keswick have suffered an overwhelming trauma to their social system and are caught up in the joy of having the struggle end. But, before long the enormity of overthrowing a monarchy will rest heavily on the new government and they will need a steady hand as they learn the art of governance. I believe you can help Lansing temper his passion. It’s quite different to govern in peace than it is to foment a rebellion. The truth is, there’s no one as well suited as you.”

  “Then I have just one request. I’ll take this position if you’ll assign Lieutenant Magill as my aide-de-camp.”

  “Lieutenant Magill? But his feet will take at least a year to heal to the point where he walks without crutches or a wheelchair.”

  “You told me why you thought I was qualified. I’m telling you that he has the qualities I lack, particularly a shrewd political insight into the rebels’ frame of mind. He has a keen interest, almost a passion, for the role that social institutions play in helping people live more meaningful lives. As to his feet, where better to recuperate than here? If you keep him on active military assignment they’ll post him to some no-account job on Kalenden and he’ll end up leaving the service as soon as he’s healed. What a waste of talent that would be. At least out here, he can gain experience and recognition that can help him later. Plus, he’s popular with the Keswick people. ‘The hero of Cambriol.’ I can use all the goodwill we can gather. So, will you meet my condition?”

  “Rather proves what I said about you, doesn’t it, Major? Why don’t you offer the job to Lieutenant Magill yourself?” Jesik smiled as Wilkerson rose and the two shook hands.

  “By the way, Captain, how does Fleet Command feel about your giving this assignment to an Army man?”

  Jesik laughed. “Fleet command is convinced that I’m unusually skilled at snatching a political defeat from the jaws of victory. Just as we gain recognition, I give it away. But, you’re the right man for the job. So, that’s that.”

  Later that afternoon Colonel Kensington gave Jesik a dressing down over Magill. “Jesik, you astonish me. As a member of Unified Command, I was shocked that you appointed Wilkerson as our Special Representative. As a member of the Army, I was gratified, of course and thought that maybe you’ve started to mature in your judgment. But then I hear that you’re appointing a Lieutenant, Junior Grade to the second most influential role on the planet? For crying out loud, Jesik, the man’s an invalid and will be an embarrassment. While the Alturian delegation strides forcefully about, pictures of Kalenden will feature a boyish face hobbling along on crutches. What kind of an image is that to project to this corner of the galaxy?”

  “It was Major Wilkerson who requested Magill, Sir.”

  “A sentimental reaction to their shared misery on the planet. You should have told him ‘no’ immediately. But you’re a sentimentalist, too. That’s your greatest weakness—it always has been. Now I have to do it and I’m tired of cleaning up your messes, Jesik. You have to have Magill withdraw his name immediately. That’s an order. And do it in a way that doesn’t embarrass us.”

  Kensington was about to break the connection, but hesitated before adding, “I’ll be sending my own aide-de-camp to assume that position. Wilkerson will be grateful to have someone truly qualified by seniority and experience. Plus, the man’s from a well-established family.”

  Jesik tried hard to conc
eal his contempt for Kensington’s never-ending self-promotion. Finally, unable to rein in his anger, he said, “Speaking to your earlier point, Colonel, you’re certainly right about how withdrawing Mr. Magill’s name will embarrass us, particularly in view of the correspondence I received fifteen minutes ago from the Prime Minister. But, naturally I’ll follow your orders.”

  “What correspondence? I’m not aware of any message from the Prime Minister.”

  “Probably hasn’t been delivered to you yet, Sir.” Jesik picked up a piece of paper and read, “On behalf of the Quadrant Council, please accept our congratulations of your choice of Major Wilkerson and Lieutenant Magill. You should immediately promote Magill to Lieutenant Commander to give proper status to his position. Having one of the prominent figures in the Cambriol incident chosen for this assignment has strengthened our own political situation immeasurably, particularly since Lieutenant Commander Magill is from a third-class family. In view of the rebel discontent on both Keswick and Alturus it’s vital to keeping our citizens content that we demonstrate that advancement opportunities are available to every Kalenden, regardless of family background or status.” Jesik looked up, eyes narrowed and taunted, “It’s signed by the Prime Minister.”

  “Of course, the Council is wise in their decision…” Kensington paled as he mentally fumbled for a way to rescind his order. Finally, “It’s a sad day when political considerations outweigh seniority and tenure, but we constantly have to stroke the egos of the second and third-class families to keep peace. Let Lieutenant, that is, Lieutenant Commander Magill know of my interest in his promotion. Kensington out.”

  Jesik nearly collided with Brighton as he exited his cabin.