At 12:02 AM 5/13/96 -0800, you wrote:
> Perhaps also for his belief in democracy? (though he often
>questions it) That's the reason he gave for not working under Reinhard
>after the alliance surrendered. Yang doesn't believe in artistocracy.
>
Well, as Tanaka wrote in the novels, Man are reluctant to think. They would
like to be dominated by some kind of hero so as they can work in peace, live
in peace and play in peace. Actually, it's the truth which can be reflected
by the low voting rate in my living place (Hong Kong). Just like what
Schenkopp said, what if most of the citizen voted to be ruled by an emperor,
ruled by artistocracy?
Thus, if I were Yang, I would order Schenkopp to arrest Truniht just after
the civil war. This is the only method to restore the democratic atmosphere
of the Alliance. It is not a matter of democracy, but Yang HAS to eliminate
Truniht first in order to protect Alliance, the only base of democracy.
Yang does not need to be a ruler himself, but if Schenkopp shot Truniht
first, no one will play the power-seizing game anymore and REAL 'democratic'
guys will have to chance to reform the Alliance.
>>Sun Tzu said that commanders can neglect the ruler's order once in war since
>>no one can understand the real situation of war more than the commander.
>>Yang as a history espert should know it.
>
> But that goes against democratic ideas. The people (represented by
>elected officials), and not the military officials, are supposed to have
>the final say on whether or not to continue a war. (I know, in reality it
>doesn't work this way, but that's the fundmental idea.) If Yang goes
>against his own democratic belief, what difference is there between him and
>Reinhard? (Other than that Reinhard is a more able soldier below the neck.
>:P)
>
This remind me Yang as one of the most famous generals in the North Song
Dynasty of China (I don't know how to write his name in English). He had
the chance to defeat the intruder Kim Dynasty, but he followed the order of
his king to retreat. This indirectly led to the lost of half territory of
Song Dynasty, including the silly king being kidnapped by the intruder.... :(
> I'd expect more diplomatic skill from Reuental. As for
>Mittermeyer, I see no reason for him to fight with his long time friend and
>comrade. Reuental, after all, has saved Mittermeyer's life indirectly
>before (by going to Reinhard for help). Besides, Mittermeyer doesn't
>strike me as the power hungry type. If Reinhard's dead and the Empire
>needs a new leader, I don't see why Mittermeyer wouldn't support his
>friend.
I think Reuental would go back to Phazzen first if Reinhard's dead. Partly
because Obestine would be a treat to him, but also he should organize his
troops if he made himself king.
Regards,
Yang
Zu jeder Zeit, an jeder Ort, bleibt das Tun
der Menschen das gleiche... - LoGH
The 13th Fleet of Free Planet Alliance lives!!!