Wedge009 Is A Great Guy
http://wedge009.net/wc/privateer/rfinformant.php
This part is especially interesting.
Informant: So I expected. But our interests may coincide for a little while. Let me tell you the story of Mordecai Jones. He was an unknown when he joined the Church of Man five years ago. He started as a ship technician, but by virtue of his astounding eloquence and technical skill, he quickly attained a position of leadership. Within a year, he commanded a church battalion. Within three years, he was an Elite Guard Commander. He was soon in a position equal to my own. When his holiness Father Benengeli, the previous church leader, died a year ago, it was revealed that he had appointed Mordecai Jones as his successor. Jones’ leadership brought the church a stunning string of victories. He provided us with new Kilrathi ships and stronger arms. And, of course, our new secret weapon. I believe it is known to you.
Burrows: My gun?
Informant: Yes. The Steltek super-weapon. Church engineers have already learned how to duplicate it. The copies have been used experimentally. Mass production is imminent. I don’t believe your Confederation can withstand such a powerful force.
Burrows: That’s for sure. But I thought you were disgruntled. This whole situation seems perfect for you.
Informant: Oh, it is. The average churchman’s dreams seem about to be realised. But my high rank gives me access to some closely guarded secrets. Six months ago, I accidentally came upon some transmissions from Jones to Governor Menesch. They mentioned “The Ulterior Motive”. A plan I had never heard of. My suspicions were aroused. Further research revealed the nature of this plan. In summary, it led to Jones’ domination of Gemini, and gave Menesch a great deal of power and wealth. When the entire region was secure, Jones would dismantle the Church of Man. He planned to use churchmen as a police force. No ultimate destruction of technology. Only megalomania. It’s an old story. Somehow, though, I’m surprised that it’s worked again.
Burrows: That’s some pretty wild stuff.
Informant: It is. I have taken a leave of absence from my church duties, hoping to find some means of stopping Jones. Time is short. But I think you can save us. I have a plan.