[Discuss] Apology to GM/Titans

[Mark Moss]

On Thu, 2005-09-15 at 17:38 +0200, Tom wrote:
> We're working on that. This here:
> http://wiki.battlemaster.org/index.php/Inalienable_rights
> is a start.

I have to wonder why "Choosing which type of unit to command" is lumped
in with "Going to tournaments" and "Voting, and choosing who to vote
for".  In the case of "Going to tournaments" and "Voting, and choosing
who to vote for" the standard has previously been established that even
suggesting a course of action for troopleaders to follow is improper.
For example, either of the following messages might lead to action being
taken against whoever sent them:

"We are at war.  Your brothers-at-arms need you here, fighting at their
side.  Don't abandon your brothers by attending a tournament."

or

"It's come time for me to retire as your general.  I thank each of you
who has supported me so faithfully through the various trials we have
faced.  JimBob has fought bravely for the realm for a long time, and I'd
like to recommend him as my successor."

If we apply this same standard to "Choosing which type of unit to
command" it would be against the rules for a general to send a message
like:

"Just a hint to those of you who will be defending the capital:  Cavalry
must leave the fortifications to attack the approaching infantry, while
archers can fire on the approaching forces from behind the shelter of
the fortifications.  In general archers are more effective then cavalry
when defending fortificaions.  A few infantry units atop the walls to
protect the archers is also a good idea."

I agree that rulers should never order troopleaders to recruit a
specific type of unit, but placing that action in the same category as
coercing votes or asking TL's not to attend a tournament doesn't seem
like a good idea.  It will prevent generals and others from distributing
good, sound advice on the art of (BM) warfare.

Mark Moss