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Wagster nods as he listens to Smith. "Yes, I like what I hear. The smallest of Our Lord's creations must be defended and allowed to lead fulfilling, moral lives without being bombarded constantly with obscene filth put on the airwaves by those of degenerate moral fiber. Parents need help from the government in fostering an environment where their children can be brought up properly. This sounds like a plan that the Soldiers of God would favor." At this point, Bradstreet joins them. "Ah, Colonel, I was just discussing such things with your partymate here...you are in the same party, yes? Anyway, Colonel, we favor all the policy stances you just mentioned, but those are fairly broad planks. What sort of specific action can you promise us?"

* * * * *​

"We're always listening, Mr. Cain" says the ECL rep.

* * * * *​

"All good suggestions, Per Zhokhyen, and the sorts of things we're looking for in our elected leadership" the EBA representative responds, twirling his drink in his hands. "Tell me, are you familiar with the 'Workers Bill of Rights'? It's an old piece of legislation, passed several terms ago, and one that has vexed us incessantly. I believe I have a copy right here. This abomination was passed into law back when the socialists had a much larger voting bloc than they currently appear to, and as you can see, some of these provisions are absolutely ludicrous. I can't tell you how many times I've heard some prominent commie in this country wonder aloud why the economy has been doing so poorly...I need point them no farther than this document!

Foreign investors are reluctant to place capital in our country, and no one wants to open new facilities here. Lots of companies pulled out shortly after this legislation passed, and the problem has not been alleviated in recent years. If we could just find someone who would roll some of the more obnoxious provisions in this legislation back somewhat..."

* * * * *​

The EFA rep cocks his head to one side as Michael speaks. "Very interesting. Yes, our organization has long believed that a man's home or business should be his castle, and if someone invades that home or business, that a law-abiding citizen should have an unquestioned right to defend himself, lethally if necessary. I mean think about it, someone breaks into your home, and the government would have us question this criminal to find out what his true intent is before deciding what we may do to defend ourselves? Must we flee while this person steals our possessions, can we break their arms if they have a knife? It's ridiculous. Your measure sounds like something we would definitely be interested in.

However, at the same time, I must express our strong displeasure with what your partymates Per Forbes and Per O'Floinn did to our Gun Rights amendment in the constitution. Strong displeasure."

* * * * *​

"Per Tulp, our number one goal at this point in time is to get a referendum on the monarchy started...and between you and me, we're doing very very well in some places. Keep your eye on the news, I think you'll be pleased.

What we need, and what we will support, is a prominent politician to push our referendum and message through to his peers, other legislators and executives, so that something actually gets done for a change. Someone to put pressure on provincial governors, that sort of thing. We'll mobilize the voters, organize all the nitty gritty...what we need is someone with a big name on a big stage to give credibility to our movement and to really accelerate it to action."
 
"Yes, Per," Zhokhyen said, "I am very aware of that bill. While of course, the complete removal of those laws is impossible, I believe my party would be very interested in reducing the government restrictions as much as possible. Nobody wants to see workers' rights violated, but that document takes such measures too far, squandering prosperity the hopes of establishing a socialist haven. My good sirs, I swear to you that I and my party will do as much as we can to have that bill rolled back."
 
"Ms. van Ewen, I can assure you that the good Reverend's objections are unfounded." Olson informs the ECLU representative. "I have not jumped to the other end of the political spectrum, I have stayed on the Left on social issues. I have a long history of supporting the rights of workers and the disenfranchised. You can see my voting record in the GA.

"The Party of Liberty is not going to leave the poor and the disadvangtaged out to dry. We simply believe that by keeping the government small, while still providing needed services, we will be able to protect citizen's individual rights. For all the talk about slum lords and such, I think we can all agree that during the coup, it was the Government, not individual citizens that proved the greatest threat to the people of Eutopia. I would think that after such a dark period in our history, the idea of a smaller government would be refreshing, not extreme."
 
von Streusser said:



The EFA rep cocks his head to one side as Michael speaks. "Very interesting. Yes, our organization has long believed that a man's home or business should be his castle, and if someone invades that home or business, that a law-abiding citizen should have an unquestioned right to defend himself, lethally if necessary. I mean think about it, someone breaks into your home, and the government would have us question this criminal to find out what his true intent is before deciding what we may do to defend ourselves? Must we flee while this person steals our possessions, can we break their arms if they have a knife? It's ridiculous. Your measure sounds like something we would definitely be interested in.

However, at the same time, I must express our strong displeasure with what your partymates Per Forbes and Per O'Floinn did to our Gun Rights amendment in the constitution. Strong displeasure."

O'Floinn isn't trying to prevent private ownership of firearms, he has a legal mind, he thinks of the most lenghty word filled way to say very simple ideas. Although sometimes that can be dangerous, if I required assistance in writing the bill I proposed to you, who would be better to go to so I can insure the bill will not have holes or be challenged by low-ranking activists judges?

I am going to be at the head of my parties representation at the assembly and I am not here asking for blanket approval of my party. We have one of the bigger names in environmentalism in the party and I don't expect you to campaign for him, some of his ideas I likely won't approve of.

However would you rather believe the word of someone who's livelyhood in part depends on the right to own firearms or someone who merely agrees with whatever you say while you are together then ignores the other issues facing owners of firearms beyond the right to own them. My company sells to people who use their firearms, either in defense of themselves or for recreational purposes. Others may say their general assembly members support the right to bear arms, but their support will end there, at the begining of the fight not the end.
 
The EBA rep shrugs, a good-natured smile on his face. "That's all we can ask, Per Zhokhyen. Not asking you to wipe it out, just...give us a fighting chance in the world economy, you know? Now, is there anything else we can do for you? This conversation has been... rather encouraging."

* * * * *​

"Per Lundgren, I have never liked lawyers. And that's why. Per O'Floinn's revision has in fact filled the gun rights ownership provision of our constitution with loopholes and potential for abuse by over-zealous government officials and activist judges, as you put it. I mean, look at it: 'except in cases where public safety is threatened.' Who determines that? Some of these nutballs think anyone owning a gun threatens public safety! 'Exceptions shall include, but not be limited to'...there are unlimited exceptions. Unlimited! 'These tests shall not exceed the ability of the average citizen'...who determines the ability of the average citizen? This provision is not at all encouraging.

Even more upsetting is Per Forbes' statement in the Constitutional Convention that 'the first thing I intend to do, if elected to the General Assembly, is get a bill passed restricting gun ownership.' We absolutely positively can't support that.

But, I do appreciate that you have a strong financial interest in passing the sort of legislation you mentioned to me about allowing our citizens to defend their own homes. Your interests appear to be our interests, and that's exactly the sort of partnership we're looking for. But, I can't vote for you for the legislature without voting for Pers Forbes and O'Floinn, as you're partymates. Unless of course you could reassure me of your capacity to...reign them in? And I just don't know that we can vote for an executive ticket that includes people who have so far run counter to our interests."
 
von Streusser said:
Wagster nods as he listens to Smith. "Yes, I like what I hear. The smallest of Our Lord's creations must be defended and allowed to lead fulfilling, moral lives without being bombarded constantly with obscene filth put on the airwaves by those of degenerate moral fiber. Parents need help from the government in fostering an environment where their children can be brought up properly. This sounds like a plan that the Soldiers of God would favor." At this point, Bradstreet joins them. "Ah, Colonel, I was just discussing such things with your partymate here...you are in the same party, yes? Anyway, Colonel, we favor all the policy stances you just mentioned, but those are fairly broad planks. What sort of specific action can you promise us?

Why yes, Per Smith and I both represent the Nationalists. On Sam-sex marriage, we plan to keep marriage strictly between a man and a woman. We intended to end Abortion completely, as all members concur that life begins at conception. I can't say the same about most people, but I am a practicing Roman Catholic. I attend Saint Augustine of Canterbury Cathedral outside of New Lancaster. If there is any other specific area Ican address or if Per Smith can address, please ask. We are here for you and your interests.
 
von Streusser said:


"Per Lundgren, I have never liked lawyers. And that's why. Per O'Floinn's revision has in fact filled the gun rights ownership provision of our constitution with loopholes and potential for abuse by over-zealous government officials and activist judges, as you put it. I mean, look at it: 'except in cases where public safety is threatened.' Who determines that? Some of these nutballs think anyone owning a gun threatens public safety! 'Exceptions shall include, but not be limited to'...there are unlimited exceptions. Unlimited! 'These tests shall not exceed the ability of the average citizen'...who determines the ability of the average citizen? This provision is not at all encouraging.

Even more upsetting is Per Forbes' statement in the Constitutional Convention that 'the first thing I intend to do, if elected to the General Assembly, is get a bill passed restricting gun ownership.' We absolutely positively can't support that.

But, I do appreciate that you have a strong financial interest in passing the sort of legislation you mentioned to me about allowing our citizens to defend their own homes. Your interests appear to be our interests, and that's exactly the sort of partnership we're looking for. But, I can't vote for you for the legislature without voting for Pers Forbes and O'Floinn, as you're partymates. Unless of course you could reassure me of your capacity to...reign them in? And I just don't know that we can vote for an executive ticket that includes people who have so far run counter to our interests."
Just your support for our assembly ticket is enough to help get more support for me in the general assembly. I perfectly understand if you feel a different vote for president or the ministries is in your best interests. Afterall we all have more then one way to work towards our goals. And yes as long as we get at least one seat in the assembly, I will be there fighting for our mutual interests. Our party handles more then one issue and just like I will be there to support our members on other issues they will have to be there to support me so I can support us on our mutual interests we are discussing today.
 
Jim Sykes walks in, orders a wine and cheese and joins his friend Col. Bradstreet at the SoG table.

"Greetings my friends. As Per Bradstreet has said, our Party is the only one that supports your ideals. I can assure you we will do our best to make sure that such Communist and atheistic ideals as the killing of babies and the coupling of men with each other will not be tolerated in our society. We believe strongly in the enforcement of family values. Did you know they show gay pr*n on pay per view these days? We are in danger of becoming a Sodom and Gomorrah. I tell you truthfully, support our Party and you will not be disappointed."
 
Stile Van Ewen nods, noting the swiftness with which parties set upon one another in an effort to secure the ECLU's support. It's going to be quite an election, she thinks. "Per Olson, you and Per Vandelft have repeatedly mentioned welfare and provision for the disabled, but frankly I don't think many people are going to come down against support for the downtrodden. What I'm more interested in is your plans for Omnicare and Medicure. Your rhetoric would seem to suggest doing away with those programs, but they provide insurance coverage and medical services to all Eutopians."

* * *​

Wagster nods to Smith, Bradstreet and Sykes. "Well, gentlemen, we haven't heard much from other parties, but certainly we seem to think very much alike. I can tell you're God's people. We'll have some meetings with our political action committees, and I'm sure the ENP will be mentioned favorably."

* * *​

The EFA representative listens carefully to Lundgren's suggestion. "An interesting proposal, Per Lundgren. Of course, there will be many powerful parties in our organization who will oppose any association with your party, with O'Floinn and Forbes and all. Many of them will make the point that one of those two are likely to wind up in the General Assembly with you... probably Forbes, if he intends to keep his promise of proposing limitations on gun ownership.

The representative lowers his voice conspiratorially. "Tell me, if you had our support, could you convince Forbes not to introduce such a bill? The Eutopian Firearms Association is not interested in hearing language like 'no law, proclamation, ruling, or order violating in any way, shape, or form the right of Eutopian citizens to own and bear firearms', and then seeing the first bill to come out of the new Assembly term try to do exactly that."
 
The_Hawk said:

The EFA representative listens carefully to Lundgren's suggestion. "An interesting proposal, Per Lundgren. Of course, there will be many powerful parties in our organization who will oppose any association with your party, with O'Floinn and Forbes and all. Many of them will make the point that one of those two are likely to wind up in the General Assembly with you... probably Forbes, if he intends to keep his promise of proposing limitations on gun ownership.

The representative lowers his voice conspiratorially. "Tell me, if you had our support, could you convince Forbes not to introduce such a bill? The Eutopian Firearms Association is not interested in hearing language like 'no law, proclamation, ruling, or order violating in any way, shape, or form the right of Eutopian citizens to own and bear firearms', and then seeing the first bill to come out of the new Assembly term try to do exactly that."
If we received your support then my party's leadership will in no way put forth such a bill limiting gun ownership and the first bill I propose will be one dealing with the issue of home protection we spoke of today.
 
Cain sits down next to the ECL representatives.

"Evening gentlemen.

Don't know if you've been keeping up with things, but there seems to be a growing issue. There was a sharp rise of anti-unionism from the conservatives at the end of the last term. Im afraid with the large numbers of conservatives coming out of the woodwork, we may see the same bias. I'd like not to, and I'm sure you'd like not to see it as well. The conservatives grab a hold of a majority in the legislature and the ministries, you'll see some anti-union legislation coming down the lines, I don't doubt it."
 
Forbes, again making a visit to his competitor, spots Lundgren talking to the EFA representatives. He smirked as he remembered his contradicting promises. Well, c'est la vie. Sidling over to the EFA's table, he asks politely, "Gentlemen, mind if I join you?"
 
Hello Roger, we are wrapping up a nice chat, nice chat.
 
"I assume that's a yes, Mr. Lundgren?" Roger said as he pulled out a chair.

"So, gentlemen, I've come to talk to you about a bill regarding firearms. I don't think you'll like it, and neither do I, but it is necessary to preserve the image of the EFA. Now, I want to enact legislature restricting completely unnecessary firearms. I'm talking about rocket/grenade-launchers, grenades, and high-yield explosives. I support the right to bear arms just as much as you do, but we must also realize that it cannot be taken too far. Rockets could hardly be considered a firearm necessary or even remotely helpful to civilian survival or prosperity. Therefore, might you at least agree to support me on such a bill?"
 
Just curious Roger, do you happen to know of a local grocery store where someone can buy a rocket launcher?
 
The EFA representative's face turns icy as Forbes approaches. "In fact, we do mind if you join us. We clearly have nothing to discuss, Per Forbes. The Eutopian Firearms Association will never support a bill restricting our rights to any firearms, regardless of who deems them unnecessary or excessive, as to do such would merely open the door to further and further restrictions and abuse until all firearms are 'unnecessary'. We have seen quite clearly where your loyalties lie, and it is not with our constituents and interests."

The rep turns to Per Lundgren and forces a smile. "I will consider what we have discussed, Per Lundgren, but I think my concerns have been illustrated quite clearly. I hope you will think over our request." With a nod to the rest of his delegation, the party gets up and leaves the table.

* * * * *​

"Yep, all that damned Friends of Durruti business. Set us back decades!" wails one of the ECL lobbyists. Another joins the discussion.

"While I agree with you to a point, Per Cain, our interests probably don't lie with the conservatives. But that only really eliminates one party...what can you offer us to show us that our interests lie with you?"
 
"Stubborn jackasses..." mumbled Forbes under his breath, hoping nobody hears (it was very quiet). Addressing the EFA reps as they walk away, Roger is getting desperate, "Well would you at least be willing to discuss something? I merely asked for support and your opinion on such a bill, not for your submission. Truly men of your esteem know the value of negotiation? I assure you, I am for Eutopian gun rights, I am merely making a few proposals here."
 
Woody Park visits the Soldiers of God, and descibes how he was called to the ministry. He talks about his faith, his church, and the challenges his flock face.
"I would expect to play a role in the legislature for the Eutopian Labour Party after the elections. You and I might have some differences on issues like abortion, but I don't think that is likely to change when someone who wants one can just catch a bus to St. Esprit or Tilapia and get one if they want. What I am offering is a chance for you to back a sincere man of God in the General Assembly. When an issue comes up, we can study scripture then pray together for guidance from the Lord, and vote accordingly.

I would certainly support faith based initiatives as a way of dealing with some some social ills, particularly those were government action has been ineffective, and private charities have shown more promise, like reducing youth violence."
 
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Forbes, frustrated with his failure to convince the EFA to support him, walked across the dining area to a table where the SGG reps were sitting.

"Hello gentlemen, I am Roger Forbes, member of the MRP and, hopefully, a candidate for the GA in this upcoming election. I'm coming right out and asking you for your support for the MRP. I know I have little record to go on, but I pride myself on my morals. During the reign of Levarge, I organized an underground movement to undermine the authority of the dictatorial regime. Also, I did my best in the Constitutional Convention to keep the convention moving. I proposed the first draft of the roles of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches while the rest of the delegates sat around debating semantics and the monarchy. I will continue to work for the better governance of Eutopia, as I believe my partymates will. The MRP is dedicated to quality in a few specific positions, rather than trying to govern the whole nation themselves (and in doing the latter, one would fail miserably leaving many inactive posts). So, gentlemen, might you consider throwing your support behind the MRP for the GA and the cabinet?
 
"Ms. Van Ewen, our goal is not to get rid of Omnicare and Medicure. When we state in our party platform that the various needs of the physically and mentally handicapped must be met, we include medical care. Others, the elderly and children, need health care and if they do not have the financial capabilities to purchase health care on their own, then it is the responsibility of the state to provide assistance.

"That being said, we do want to reform Eutopia's health care system. There is no need to give health care to those who can afford it. We would also like to see health care become privatized, so that it can be more affordable. Our position is to help those who need it, and for those who don't to help themselves. We believe the government's role is to be a helping hand, not a crutch." Olson tries to speak as graciously and politely as possible. He realizes that his argument with the Reverend, with whom he agrees with on many issues, may have been too impulsive and impolite. Olson makes a note to himself to keep everything civil.