First Steps (Founding of the Federation) Read Free Page B

American plans, we get the lead, but the
other nations can contribute.”
    Zubrin
nodded. “We can try it. I know a couple contacts in the Chinese
aerospace program, let me do a little back door whisper campaigning.”
Zubrin replied. Luigi smiled.
    ...*...*...*...*...
    “It
is a pleasure to finally meet you ambassador Li,” Luigi bowed
politely to the Chinese ambassador.
    “We
have much to discuss and my schedule is heavily booked,” the
ambassador said. Unlike most Asians the ambassador was short and to
the point. The American ambassador looked startled. Normally the
Asians were polite, and took ages to get through protocol.
    “A
refreshing change. I believe too much of American bluntness has worn
off on you Mr. Li,” Luigi smiled politely. Getting to the point
suited him just fine.
    The
ambassador nodded. “Perhaps.”
    “Well
sir, we were discussing the Mars mission. The American administration
is open to an international effort if each party is willing to donate
funding, material, or other assets to the program.” The
ambassador nodded. “I would like to formally invite your
country to participate and provide cosmonauts for the program,”
Luigi said. Luigi watched but couldn't interpret the facial twitch.
    “Indeed,”
the ambassador murmured and then sat back. “And when would they
fly if ever?”
    Luigi
smiled. “That depends on many factors, such as if they pass the
physical and can integrate successfully in the first mission crew.
Also funding, resources and such to be worked out.”
    The
ambassador's eyes lit. “Such as our withdrawing our complaint
about Russian cooperation or the use of their Topaz reactors in
space?”
    The
American ambassador nodded. “That would be very helpful,”
he said.
    “And
what do we get in return?” the ambassador asked.
    “Well,
a guaranteed spot on the flight crew,” the American ambassador
said smoothly. He didn't like the interloper in their midst. The
state department didn't need the headache of his complicating
presence.
    The
Chinese ambassador smiled slightly. “The second flight of
course.”
    Luigi
shook his head. “If your country matches American
funding and resources then the first flight.”
    The
American ambassador froze. The Chinese ambassador stared at Luigi,
eyes gleaming.
    “Indeed?”
The ambassador for China sat back studying them. “And just who
would be first to touch the ground?”
    Luigi
smiled internally. “Well, it is an American program...”
The American ambassador started. He raised his hand slightly.
    Both
men stopped. “Would you agree to a joint step off?” Luigi
asked. “For all mankind?” The ambassador's looked
confused and wary.
    “Joint?”
    “Yes,
the entire team steps off jointly. No first among equals.”
Luigi sat back as he watched the Chinese ambassador.
    After
a long moment the other man nodded thoughtfully. “You are an
interesting man sir. I will take this to my government.” The
Chinese ambassador nodded.
    “Please
do. We would like your participation in this; it is after all an
endeavor for all mankind,” the American ambassador recovered
quickly. The Chinese ambassador stood as an aid opened the door.
Hastily both Americans joined him.
    “Thank
you for a most interesting discussion gentlemen I hope the seeds sown
here today will bear fruit,” he said. Luigi bowed formally. The
ambassador bowed, then shook his hand and waved to the door.
    ...*...*...*...*...
    “Who
do they think they are offering a joint mission without consulting
us?” the Senator snarled. This Mars program was moving at an
incredible speed, incredible for those on this hill. Those opposed
were having trouble dealing with it. Some were still settling in
after the election, others were feeling each other out. Apparently
Zubrin had struck while the Senate had been paying attention
elsewhere.
    “I
believe the leadership told them to get the job done and gave them
carte blanch to do so Senator,” an aide replied.
    The
Senator glared.