New Imperialism - AH RP v 2.1 [IC]

by **Senkaku** » Tue Jan 06, 2015 3:01 pm

Ikh Mongol Uls

All Under the Blue Sky, Chapter Six: Heaven's Net

"Heaven's net is wide, but its mesh is fine."
-Lao Tzu

Outside Jehol

The Summer Palace was burning.
The smoke plume already rose high above the hilltops around Jehol, visible for miles, and it was only growing as the inferno grew worse, consuming the palace's opulent and highly flammable decor and reducing the beautiful pavilions and halls that for so long had been the envy of the civilized world to ashes and cinders. The rumble of cannon and gunfire bounced off the hills, as the khagan's column hurried towards Khanbaliq with nearly five thousand of Prince Zaichun's riders behind them, fighting the Imperial Guard to try and seize Lord Kublai.
Kublai did not look back, did not speak, as he cantered along with the rest of the column, flying towards Khanbaliq.

Behind them, meanwhile, another ferocious battle had erupted. Zaichun's riders, advancing from the north, had been met and halted by the Imperial Guard, who were now fighting furiously and slowly giving ground to their enemies' superior numbers. Now the fight was raging on the grounds of the Summer Palace itself- the same palace that Kublai had just ordered be put to the torch. It was an apocalyptic scene, men fighting and dying as the buildings around them burned, some of them setting the very buildings they were using as sniper nests or cover ablaze to follow their orders from the khagan. The smoke reduced visibility tremendously, and explosions from artillery on both sides kicked up even more dust and debris and started more fires, with the end result being that thousands of men were stumbling around and fighting confusedly on the palace grounds as they were consumed in an inferno that, by nightfall, would even be visible from Khanbaliq, a hundred and thirty miles to the south, as a distant and menacing smoke plume beginning to creep over the northern horizon.

Khanbaliq
The Golden Orchid Court

"This is only the beginning."
"No, Liu, it's the beginning of the end," Bayan said grimly.
"Perhaps. Let us hope that is not the case."
"We can hope all we want, but I very much doubt the empire will survive a civil war."
"Well, it's our job to make sure it does."
"You're far more dutiful than I am. Honestly, I'm not even sure who I should be fighting for. Three generals from the Gate of Divine Might actually left with Zaichun. Should I have been with them? Is it my duty to serve the khagan, when he is a puppet of the Vice-Regent, or the Crown Prince, when he rebels against this puppetry?"
"Dangerous words, Bayan."
"Dangerous times, Liu."
"Are you questioning your own loyalty to the throne, General?," Liu said icily.
Bayan sighed. "I don't know. This is all such a mess."
"Political intrigue has never been your strong suit," Liu said dismissively, with a slight snort. "Rice wine?"
"Please." The general bit his lip while his friend poured, accepting the cup gratefully.
"Bayan, our duty is to the khagan. If you had really thought it was your duty to serve Zaichun and his nest of power-hungry spiders, you would have left when we cleared them out. Now we must serve the khagan and crush the rebellion- and if you are not prepared to do that, I need to find someone who is."
"I'm more than willing. But I don't think I'll be able to if this intrigue continues."
Liu sipped his wine delicately, turning away. "Well, leave that to me."

Karakorum Viceroyalty
Dornod Province
Bayan Tumen

The greatest lords of Manchuria and Mongolia, the leaders of the Khamag Mongol, the Khereid and the Tatars, the Merghid and the Olkhunuud, the Hūlun lords- Nara, Hada, Ula, Aisin-Gioro, Hoifa, Yehe, and the princes of the Amur Basin- all were now gathered in Bayan Tumen, a pathetic gathering of hovels scattered across the eastern steppe. It was an ugly, wind-scorched city, whipped by the winds of Siberia and the Gobi, poor and small and dirty- nothing like the splendid cities of China or those few metropolises that had escaped the flames of the Kobayashi Rebellion in Japan.
On a high hill, outside a huge, fine yurt- the yurt of the Viceroy Iljigin himself, in fact, for when he was traveling- Prince Zaichun was partaking in the ceremony that the arrival of so many great lords had begun.

OOC: basically, I'm going to leave this unfinished indefinitely so I can work on the next post and the impending collapse of Ikh Mongol Uls and the fallout from that event.
As such, we can have a...

POST SUMMARY:

-Zaichun has declared himself khagan after a kurultai in Bayan Tumen.
-Kublai has escaped Jehol and is fleeing back to Khanbaliq.
-Shooting is happening in Chagatai as the Kyrgyz armies continue to advance on Osh and Asadai Batukhan's advance on Kashgar continues as well.
-Lady Chabi has disappeared (that's a big deal, she's Zaichun's girlfriend if you forgot), and on the far side of the empire it would appear her actions to quell the Hanoi riots were unsuccessful- rebellion has broken out in the hills around the city, but Mongol troops have held the Red River Delta and Haiphong and the road north.
-The Communists are plotting, and so is Minister Sun Liu and his friend General Niohuru Bayan, and so is the Vice-Regent (who's really, along with the Chancellor, the khagan, and Sajadi, one of the only ones actually trying to hold the empire together)
-

by **Sveltlana** » Wed Jan 07, 2015 3:04 pm

KALMARUNIONEN SKANDINAVIEN

Chapter Three: A Romantic Funeral
20th of April, the year 1881.

-- THE ROYAL FUNERAL; STOCKHOLM --

Talk with Mongol Prince,
Fritz

"Ah, Excellency!" said the Kalmar Queen coldly, much more coldly than Lorenzo would have expected from a woman who just lost her husband. Indeed, the Queen carried herself in the manner in which a child carries herself after the death of a beloved pet: for the first few days, she cries endlessly over its death, but, having time passed, soon occupies herself with more important matters and forgets about its death altogether.

WIP.

TO THE TUSCAN-LOMBARDIAN FOREIGN RELATIONS OFFICE
From the Kalmar Foreign Relations Department.

In the name of the Kalmar Monarchy, I hereby accept with the utmost gratitude the condolences offered by the noble Kingdom of Tuscany-Lombardy and would personally like to thank His Highness, King Lorenzo III de' Medici of Tuscany-Lombardy, for his warm and understanding regards. We shall receive His Majesty's person and the Prince with utmost anticipation and the best accommodations that are in the power of the Kalmar Monarchy to provide.

A firm believer in international peace and co-operation, I would like to state that I agree with the statement mentioned by His Highness, King Lorenzo III de' Medici, in its entirety, and to witness the fostering of relations between the Kalmar Union and the Kingdom of Tuscany-Lombardy would be counted among an appropriate path. Do know that I shall inform the cabinets and ministries of the Kalmar Union of your friendly disposition.

P. Isak, Count of Nordahl
Lord High Chancellor
Sekretariatet utrikesministeriet

by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Wed Jan 07, 2015 3:10 pm

The Dual Kingdom of Catalonia and Naples

El Dual Regne de Catalunya i Nàpols

Restoration Begins
Outside Rome, The Papal States | June 15th 1881 Anno Domini

Thus far, the Dual Kingdom has seen many successes throughout the so called Kingdom of Rome. The invading armies arrived from both Naples and Romagna and had managed to occupy most of the false kingdom without any resistance. In the larger towns they were met with small resistance, which was instantly crushed by the large advancing armies. After all, 100,000 men marched for Rome in two directions. This was one of the largest Catalan military operations in centuries, and was truly meant to be a show of force for the Dual Kingdom. As the armies headed for Rome, further reserves were raised in Naples and Romagna in order to maintain the occupation of the Roman territories now under the direct control of the Dual Kingdom.

While the Royal Armies advanced on land, the Royal Navy sailed to blockade the Roman coastline. This was done in an attempt to halt any aid coming into the false kingdom by sea, and also tug at her purse strings, hoping to bring economic ruin to what remained of the Kingdom of Rome. There were two competing plans vying for the approval of the King. The first, proposed by the Archbishop of Naples, Guglielmo Sanfelice d'Acquavilla, advocated economic starvation of the city of Rome. The plan was to surround the city and ensure that it would in fact starve, resulting in an easy victory for the forces of the Dual Kingdom. It was the Archbishops hope that this would bring minimal damage to what remained of Church property, such as Saint Peter's Basilica, and therefore make the reconstruction of Rome much easier on the Church. However, General Joan Piqué i Bernabeu who was the Barcelonan general in charge of the operation, had proposed the Dual Kingdom take a much different path. His plan involved utterly bombarding the city of Rome, completely destroying the ancient Aurelian Walls and any other defenses the city maintained, and allowing easy advancement of the Catalan forces into the city. Through this path it was also hoped many of the defending "soldiers" and residents would be killed or rendered otherwise useless, causing a much lower level of resistance than previously expected. The General's proposal was extremely popular among the military leadership, and even found some supporters among the coalition of clergy the King had assembled. It would also truly show the might of the Dual Kingdom, something the King and military leadership alike wanted to be made known to the world. Besides, the king claimant of the false kingdom, the now infamous self-proclaimed Napoleon III sent King Ferdinand a letter, demanding Naples and Romagna, along with near independence for Sicily. The King refused to even write a letter in response to the false king, and said on the matter "This peasant shall receive my response after we burn his city and he is hanging outside Saint Peter's!". However, the organization of bombardment was largely aimed at the civilian and commercial districts of the city. The great wonders of Rome, the city's many museums, and the remaining Catholic cathedrals were all marked in districts of the city the Royal Batteries were not allowed to fire upon, thus preserving the city's artistic and historical marvels while rendering much of the city useless to those who live there.

It was decided that the Dual Kingdom would pursue the strategy of utterly bombarding the city into submission, and the 10,000 Batteries the Dual Kingdom had assembled quickly opened first on the city of Rome, delivering a volley of cannon fire upon the city's walls and the Eternal City itself. For it was on the fifteenth of June that the city of Rome would begin its fall from eternity.

Loarre, Catalonia | June 16th 1881 Anno Domini

The Prince of Girona had arrived in Loarre on a beautiful sunny day. He traveled alongside his most dearest of servants, Andreu, on the Royal Catalan Railway. Andreu was truly the man of Filipe's dreams, and he cared for him far more than he did his own wife. Poor Catarina remained isolated in her own castle back in Barcelona while her husband traveled the Catalan countryside with his lover. She was somewhat envious of Andreu, and when complaining to her husband she would often state "Would you like it if I turned over with my back in the air and you could pretend I was Andreu!". Her attempts went no where, and he marriage remained a sexless one. However, Filipe and Catarina did love each other, and maintained a very complicated relationship. Filipe told his wife on several occasions she could take up a lover of her choosing, or as many as she wished, as long as she was never caught. She never did so, and to Filipe that was her own fault. The two seemed more so childhood friends trying to find themselves in a rapidly changing world. And in fact, that was exactly what the Prince and Princess of Girona were.

During his week long trip to Loarre, Prince Filipe would take up residence in Loarre Castell. Centuries before his stay the castle was one of principle importance during the struggle between the Iberian Catholics and the Moors. At the time, the castle remained on the frontier between the Catholic and Islamic worlds, and for that reason it remained one of the most important garrisons. Eventually, the castle became a fortress, and was occasionally occupied by various feudal lords for short periods of time. It fell into the hands of the Crown of Aragon, and was quickly given to a newly establish monastery, one that had received both royal and papal backing. The castle was returned to the monarch of the Dual Kingdom after her holy inhabitants abandoned it, and was converted into an estate for the Catalan royalty. However, it remained an important symbol of royal and papal cooperation, cooperation that is still ongoing. Filipe could have cared less about the castle's history, and just hoped to spend an intimate week with his dearest Andreu at his beautiful country estate. However, before this could be done he would have to meet with Alexandre Porra and other members of the Conservative backing.

Mister Alexandre Porra was one of the wealthiest men throughout the Dual Kingdom. He was born to a rather wealthy family, and soon followed in the footsteps of his ancestors after establishing the Royal Catalan Railway (Reial Català Ferrocarril | RCF). The RCF was the de facto sole supplier of rail transport across the Dual Kingdom, with every other rail line being owned as a daughter company. It was one of three railways to receive a royal warrant, along with the Great Neapolitan Railway ( Gran Napolitana Ferrocarril| GNF) and the Royal Railway of Romagna ( Reial Ferrocarril de Romanya| RFR), both of which were subsidiaries of the Royal Catalan Railway. The heir to his rail empire was his eldest son, Pau Porra, who was an old childhood friend of Prince Filipe. The two were reunited when they studied at the University of Barcelona, but had since parted ways.

The Prince was driven to the Porra Estate by Andreu, where he was greeted by the Dual Kingdom's industrial elites. Among them were both Porras and the titans of any other industry imaginable. Filipe wondered why he was summoned here by them, but did not mind as he was in the company of both his lover and his old friend. He was escorted inside and all those gathered sat down to quickly discuss the purpose of the meeting.

"Well, Your Highness. You are likely wondering why we have invited you to meet us. And that is of course no surprise to myself. As you are well aware, the recent disasters of the Pi i Margall government is an embarrassment to our realm. Currently our government coalition is collapsing, as the Christian Democrats flee the coalition. With their numbers quickly dwindling, the days of Pi i Margall are coming to a close. And that is why I speak to you today." the eldest Porra told the Prince.

The Prince sat, intimately reflecting on every word Mr. Porra had told him. He was quite intrigued by Porra's reasoning, but was still unsure what he had to do with thee matter. "That is all very well, Mr. Porra. But I do not see what I have to do with the politics of the Royal Assembly."

"Why of course! Let me explain further. As you are aware, our monarch, your dear father, commands our military. He is currently away in Rome restoring the Papacy on his own, as task the Pi i Margall government is avoiding. With him in Rome, he is far away from the politics of our realm. And for that reason that you, his heir, are next in line for the political influence of the Crown. Now, you might wonder what influence the Crown has over politics, and that answer is simple: the military. Today I would like to ask you to travel to Barcelona, and raise the city garrisons. March down to the Royal Assembly and oust Pi i Margall. That failure of a man no longer deserves to serve as this nation's Prime Minister, and the leaders of the Conservative Party are much better suited to replace his embarrassment of a government."

"But should the Crown really interfere in the politics of the Royal Assembly? An act such as this could easily anger the populace, ending in disaster for my family."

"Ah but the people are on our side, Your Highness! They have been protesting the embarrassments of the Pi i Margall government for weeks. They are outraged at his policy in Egypt, and the disgrace his failure brought upon our nation. They are outraged that he allowed the Pope to be overthrown, and the Papal States to descend into chaos, only to be restored by your noble father. If you do what I have asked of you, the people will see you and your family as allies. They will not revolt against you, but openly rejoice for your support. At a time like this, serve action must be taken. We can weaken the coalition enough that the politics and legality of Pi i Margall's removal are no concern, but a show of force is needed. That bastard simply will not give up his position without it."

"You make a convincing argument, but if you do not mind I would like to sleep on the matter. I shall notify you tomorrow of my decision."

The men exchanged further kind words, and the Prince shook the hands of all those gathered, who added their own opinions on the situation. The titans of industry went to drink, while the Prince asked Andreu to fetch his car so they could return to the castle. As his aide left the room, Pau Porra entered.

"Why Filipe, it's been ages! And you're still as dashing as ever I see..."

"Ah, Pau! It is fantastic to see you." the Prince said as he embraced his old friend. "How have you be-" the Prince was cut off by the abrupt movement of Pau's hand down his trousers, instantly grabbing at the royal's rump. "Pau I am most sorry, but there is someone else now. I am in love with another man, and it is not proper for me to carry on with you while I am engaged with him."

Disappointment could be seen in the eyes of Pau, but he was an understanding man. "Well, at least we have our time at University."

"And that we most certainly do!"

The bell of the Prince's carriage could be heard, and he said goodbye to his old friend as he headed for Andreu.

Prince Filipe did not know this, but the influence of industry in government was rapidly expanding. And this growth would only continue after Pau Porra replaced his father as the head of the Porra Family's rail empire.

Barcelona, Catalonia | June 25 1881 Anno Domini

For the Barcelonans, June the twenty fifth started like any other day. They awoke in the somewhat early hours of the morning to start a good days of hard and honest work. They would eat their morning meal and off to work most would go, or for the children they would head off to school. However, it was around eleven o'clock when the twenty fifth became an ordinary day.

Prince Filipe had arrived in Barcelona the night before, with both his wife and his Andreu. The trio toured the city, which was of course not new to them. However, there were new sights to see. Outside the Royal Assembly hundreds, possibly thousands, of Catalans gathered protesting the Pi i Margall Government. Their vicious chants, demanding the resignation of the "Ministre del Pallasso", or Clown Minister. Some in the crowd would occasionally shout "Death to Pi i Margall! End the Liberals' tyranny!" This somewhat worried Princess Catarina, who knew nothing of what was going to occur the following day, but Filipe and Andreu took no notice, and knew what events would soon consume the capital of the Dual Kingdom. Andreu was not only Filipe's lover, but his most trusted confidant. He consulted Andreu after Mr. Porra made his proposal and had continued to keep him updated on the plans. Much to his wife's dismay, she was currently barred from both her husband's politics and his bed, but no matter, as she would soon be caught in the center of a nation wide controversy.

The protesters that had gathered outside the Royal Assembly had been doing so since the announcement of Egypt's status as a protectorate of the North German Confederation. Their anger was not with the Germans, but rather the Liberals, who many believed had lied to them, and their King, in order to push their agenda in North Africa. This was one of the reasons the Christian Democrats began to flee the coalition government, combined with several generous donations from the Catalan industrialists. The city was a powder keg just waiting to burst, and Prince Filipe could see this. The Prince or Girona was not alone, however, as Prime MInister Pi i Margall was also quite observant. He knew he would never survive reelection, and had made no plans to seek it, but the Prime Minister never would have suspected what was going to march into the Royal Assembly on the twenty fifth of June.

As clocks around the city struck eleven o'clock and rung away, the Prince Filipe marched through the streets of the capital. Behind him followed 200 soldiers, armed and seemingly battle ready. Many Barcelonans had no idea what their future king was doing parading around the streets of the city with soldiers in toe, but many were pleased to see Prince Filipe. The royals enjoyed widespread popularity throughout their realm, and seldom took blame for anything , even their own mishaps. The Catalans trusted their monarchy, and the monarchy trusted the Catalans.

The Prince arrived outside the Royal Assembly building, were now clearly more than a thousand protesters had gathered. The crowd saw him and began to cheer. The police that were sent to contain them were even distracted, and the soldiers guarding the Royal Assembly did nothing to stop the Prince and the men that followed him, allowing the Prince to walk into the building unopposed.

The Royal Assembly was in session, it had just been announced the final Christian Democrat had defected from the coalition, leaving what remained vulnerable to the Conservatives and the rouge Christian Democrats who sided with them. The Minority, and now technically Majority, Speaker, a man by the name of Artur Mas i Gavarró, began shouting at the Prime Minister, demanding the dissolution of the Royal Assembly and instant emergency elections. The Prime Minister, who knew he would not survive the elections but could finish his term, refused to do so, and as a loud ruckus erupted from the Conservatives, the doors of the Chamber of Deputies burst open, and Prince Filipe strode in with his soldiers close behind.

"What is the meaning of your visit, Prince Filipe! Can you not see the Chamber is now in session, and you are disrupting official government business. And why are there soldiers here? Remove yourselves at once!"

The Prince simply laughed, and it was now his turn to speak. "Prime Minister, you are a disgrace to our nation. Do you know what our people call you? They call you the Ministre del Pallasso. Clearly you have failed to preform the job they trusted you to do, the same job my own family trusted you to do. And now, your coalition has collapsed, forcing the Liberals to take the minority spot they most certainly deserve. Your time as the Prime Minister of the Dual Kingdom has come to an end, and I must ask you to remove yourself from that podium, and from the Assembly, or else these men will do it for you."

The Prime Minister had now realized his time had come to an end, and in an unexpected twist grabbed his gavel and charged at the Prince, shouting "Curse you, you homosexual bastard!". He charged swinging his gavel, and was quickly shot by one of the soldiers Prince Filipe had brought with him. He fell to the ground, and dropped his gavel. A pulse was taken, and he was pronounced dead.

Filipe then turned his attention to Artur. "Now, Mr. Mas i Gavarró. I believe you have a new position to fill, along with the task of forming a new government. Please do so promptly, I do not think our realm could survive these Liberal fools much longer."

Artur smiled and agreed, and the Prince then headed for the door. Before passing the corpse of the new dead former Prime Minister, Filipe kicked it and spat on it, and then made his way out of the Chamber of Deputies. He set off for his wife and Andreu, who were waiting for him nearby.

News of the coup and the death of the Prime Minister quickly spread throughout Catalonia, and managed to find its way to the other regions of the Dual Kingdom. The Liberal Party across the Dual Kingdom was outraged, but the royal and military support the Conservatives now had prevented them from doing much.

Benghazi, Sultanate of Egypt | June 27th 1881 Anno Domini

Word had arrived in the occupied city of Benghazi from Tripoli regarding the recent coup of the Liberals. The Conservative government had provided the occupying armies with a simple task: continuing occupation. It was made clear that withdrawal from the territories was not to be made until a channel was established with the Germans on the matter. The new government had intentions to try and take the occupied Cyrenaica region and relinquish their control over the Egyptian coastline, releasing the land to the Sultanate. With this in mind, the occupying armies were also told to begin preparations to formally establish the presence of the Dual Kingdom. Workers and supplies would arrive from Catalonia in order to start rebuilding the cities, starting with what remained of the old Egyptian military buildings. These workers and supplies were all payed for by the government, and were hired from one of the leading construction companies in Catalonia, whose owner just happened to be one of the Conservative backers.

TO THE NORTH GERMAN RELATIONS OFFICE
From the Dual Kingdom's Relations Department.

I write to you in order to inform you of the recent change in government within the Dual Kingdom. The Conservative Party, of which I am a member, is now running His Majesty's Government.

I will be attending the conference, along with the Assistant Minister of Foreign Relations, Joan Ortega i Alemany in the place of the old Foreign Minister and his assistant.

Signed,
Xavier Trias i Vidal de Llobatera, Foreign Minister

POST SUMMARY:

The Dual Kingdom has begun the bombardment of the city of Rome
Prince Filipe meets with the Robber Barons to discuss a possible coup
The Prince marches on the Royal Assembly and ousts Prime Minister Pi i Margall, leading to the rise of the Conservatives
The Dual Kingdom will continue its occupation of the Egyptian territory it holds

by **Marsisian** » Wed Jan 07, 2015 6:09 pm

- Reserved -

by **Altito Asmoro** » Wed Jan 07, 2015 7:09 pm

Republic of Gran Colombia
June 15, 1881

Arms industry of the Colombia is among the prized possession and industrial complex that is worth the shot. Many of its production have been exported, although it is just small arms, to various small countries and some microstates, as long as it's worth. In the meantime, to improve the arms industry, Colombia is currently seeking to import arms from other countries, as well as to improve the military's strength and to replace the outdated equipments. In the meantime, Colombia is seeking old ships from the foreign powers to replace its already-outdated ships, probably some ironclads will work. Same with the rifles, in order to replace the older rifles used for the trained citizens with a modern ones, albeit for only small portion of the trained ones. Francia is a candidate for the seeking of arms and ships. Roads and railways are among the most needed now and the construction of railway for the far flung areas are on the way.

To: Premier Ministre Felix Bault of Francia
From: President Rafael Nunez of Gran Colombia

Greetings to you, Premier Ministre. Gran Colombia is a strong, yet we have an outdated military compared to our neighbors, and we are also in desperate need of military modernization, and thus, we are seeking of a stronger relationship with Francia. We are seeking the old ships of Francia and the rifles of Francia, and we will buy the old ships and weapons you have, as even your older ships are modern compared to our old ships.

We also would like to ask for your approval, as in to aid our army's experience, to request the military experts of Francia into Colombia to improve our army's experience and its tactics. We are enthusiastically await for your response.

Sincerely yours,
President Rafael Nunez of Gran Colombia

To: President Dieter von Argentina of Argentina
From: President Rafael Nunez of Gran Colombia

Greetings to you, President Dieter. It is come to my attention that Colombia and Argentina has a similar political and social conditions, despite coming from different background of colonial history. In order to strengthen the relations, I, President Rafael Nunez, personally invited the attendance of President of Argentina, Mr. Dieter von Argentina for a royal dinner to strengthen our relations and for the national interests of our nations.

Sincerely yours,
President Rafael Nunez of Gran Colombia

"Immediately prepare the royal dinner between me and Argentina's leader." said Rafael to his secretary.

by **Alleniana** » Thu Jan 08, 2015 1:45 am

Random Event
Mariehamn, Finland
25/6/1881

"Freedom! Åland is Swedish! Long live Scandinavia! Independence!"

It was relatively balmy for the islands that day, with the sun out, not much wind and the temperature well above freezing, and it seemed that its inhabitants had taken full advantage of it; they were out in force, protest placards and signs waving, with such slogans as "Self-determination and franchise!", "Freedom for Åland," and even "Finland is Scandinavian," everywhere. The flags of Åland, Sweden and Scandinavia waved, though with a few Finnish flags mixed in. The streets of the small town were crowded and noisy as they rarely were.

It was a peaceful demonstration, here, but one with intent and potential behind it. People found an outlet to express their views in the protest, perhaps egging each other on in a sort of gentle mob mentality. Indeed, what had once been an autonomy movement now favoured near full-union with Scandinavia for the whole of Finland, a strange position. At the very least, most wanted to join Scandinavia, owing to their Swedish language, and arguably, geography and culture. Most, truly, weren't part of the front that had organised the rally, but simply supported it in a show of true grassroots support.

Generally, despite how the movement had progressed, most had regarded it as a small, fringe group. Finland was a good country, and as decent as Scandinavia was too, change was never welcomed for the sake of it. When petitions and rumours of the protest had gone around, few had estimated it would be relevant to anyone, even as strategically important as the archipelago was to the Baltic and its trade. The turnout, though, had surprised everyone.

A crowd comprising most of Mariehamn, capital of the islands, in addition to many locals who had made the journey into the town for the event, was milling around. At first, there had been some Finnish counter-protests and local police and soldiers poking about and the like, but even if they had been ordered to go out and deal with it, they would have refused. The islands were small, and even strategic as they were, when most of it went up into arms (figuratively) the local force could do little but wait for reinforcements, if they hoped to disperse them. Now, the Finnish counter-protests were swept aside, and a mob, albeit a peaceful one spouting only slightly less peaceful logic, walked around with banners their weapons, fur coats their armour and buzzword phrases their war cries.

It had been going on for several hours now, and it was beginning to show signs of dispersing. Even so, though, it was huge, perhaps the biggest thing the archipelago had seen in a long time. It had paralysed the island capital at least for this day, and might even carry on further. Many were leaving but more stayed, still marching and chanting. At the end of the day, they might go home, but their petitions and votes would still be heard, voices still calling out across the sea. Their flags, and perhaps their guns, would still stay in their houses and their tongues would still speak Swedish. Granted, many of them were not particularly extreme in their support, but support it was, something the Scandinavian government was unlikely to ignore, particularly with the petitions they'd sent those few days. The Finnish government, it seemed, had not yet reacted, neither the Scandinavian, but when they did, it could surely not be a small reaction to such an action that now gave new meaning to the trans-Baltic dispute.

The temperature began to look as if it might drop below the freezing point while the sun began to lower too, and a slight breeze picked up. A good portion of the protesters had begun wandering their way home, perhaps for dinner or to tend to children or animals. Many, though, still exercising their political rights, stood out in the cold, lighting cooking fires, singing songs and settling down to at least make Mariehamn famous for the rest of the day. Some began to even heard of the news of similar events in Turku and other parts of the archipelago, inspired by them. It was a warming feeling that helped against the cold.

Though they dispersed that night, they did, indeed, if not violently, want to join their linguistic and cultural brothers in Scandinavian Sweden; at the very least, they were willing to spend a day in town to try and get their goals achieved even if it got cold near the end. With encouragement, they might even extend their operations. For now, they had spoken though, and that was enough. How they would do what they wanted, and whether it could be successful, was on everyone's minds, but for now, ideas only sprouted, even in organisers' minds. Those ideas, too, would only await validation by state actors, distant and yet so influential. Before long, nearly everyone was asleep, only a few dreaming of the protests that day.

by **Liecthenbourg** » Thu Jan 08, 2015 8:54 am

Les Etats-Unis de Nouvelle France
Ville de Quebec, Quebec

Chapter 4: The War that Shook the West.
27th of June, 1881 AD

"And, how goes the war, sirs?" asked Minister Abraham Tremblay, as he strode rather defiantly towards his seat in the chambers. The other ministers, in their suits of black, turned to the newcomer but nothing was said. Tremblay was a minister from L'Ohio and had been a vocal opponent of the war as it being unnecessary. Funnily enough, three of his five children were male and had taken up a military life so his family had too been in conflict about the whole ordeal as well.

"The war? This isn't a war, Mr Tremblay." replied Dupont from atop his higher podium at the far end of the room. This too earned many glances from the many individuals, many adjusting their spectacles and monocles or just squinting at either of the individuals.

"How so?"

Dupont stood up, his elderly legs shaking ever so slightly as he placed both of his gloved hands upon his oaken desk, leaning forward. "1775, the Nouvelle Francais rebellion - that was a war, men dying for a cause they believed in, Mr Tremblay. But one of your calibre wouldn't know of such an event, considering your forefathers were Royalists whom fled from France after they realised that the King was going to lose a lot more than his office."

Tremblay stopped in his tracks, holding his cane in the crook of his left arm as his right hand brought down his top-hat and he held it upon his chest. "Clearly, you must know of how your forefathers fought for the freedom of this country as if you were there. I am not ashamed of my forefather's allegiances, but what of yours, Mr Dupont?"

"3rd Quebec Rifles, Battle of Trois Rivieres, St Denis and Nouvelle Marseilles. 8th Republican Cuirassiers, Battle of St Lawrence River, Battle of Louis' Hill, Battle of the Many Tears." quipped back the Prime Minister. "I wear my heritage like a suit of mail, Mr Tremblay. For the sacrifices my family put into this country, I am not afraid to state what they partook in in these wars. This California scuffle, however, is not a war. A few dead men and a few cities bombarded does not make a war."

Tremblay pulled back his chair and sat down comfortably, turning his head back to the Prime Minister for one final remark. "For all your love of this country, Sir, you seem to have been very quick to allow our youth, our people to march off across a plain that separated two oceans, for your own ends and means."

Whatever-Seattle-is-called, California

Etionnontarehronnons, commonly referred to by his peers as "Eti", drank his ration of water with much gladness and content, before the table he had his comrades where sitting at shook and trembled, causing one of them to almost spill his beverage. The guns caused this, as they had learnt at the beginning of the siege many-a week ago. The sheer ferocity and firepower all concentrated on one area, and by and large from one area, was enough to make portions of the canp quake and tremble under their might. Some would panic at this, but the hardened veterans of the Huron regiment merely called it relaxation before bed. They would chuckle when looking at the confused faces of their fellow soldiers, before informing them of the jest.

The Huron Regiment was always revered by their fellow soldiers, generally they always formed the vanguard of the Nouvelle Francais' armies - the first ones into any fray. Generally, they were always last to leave and if such an occasion was a tactical withdraw, they would harass the enemy as they retreated, taking their guerilla warfare-esque roots very seriously. Many held rifles and used them with superb accuracy and they personally discarded the bright uniforms generally offered to them and instead used more terrain friendly clothing, murky browns and grass greens and even some khaki.

Despite the prowess of his forces at hand, General Baie did what he always did - as following his own doctrine. He would pound the enemy into submission from his position, with general cavalry sweeps of the surrounding area to watch out for incursions and to cut down expeditionary forces seeking to perform a sortie. Gatling guns and other such weaponry also adorned the army here and there, with many of them being stationed near the great pounding guns to deter any foes, which had seemed to be successful. For now.

by **Auchterland** » Thu Jan 08, 2015 2:24 pm

The Kingdom of Tuscany-Lombardy
Chapter Two: The crown decides

Florence, The Kingdom of Tuscany-Lombardy.
June 15th, 1881.

As the conflict between the Dual Kingdom of Catalonia and Naples and the Kingdom of Rome commenced, the leadership of Tuscany-Lombardy saw itself pressured to make a move. The romans made them an offer to join a confederation to fight for the reunification of Italy - something that they knew would not be good for themselves. First of all, the Kingdom of Rome was the smallest power in all of the italian peninsula - joining them would mean being crushed by the surrounding giants. Then, if they ever managed to achieve this goal, it was obvious that Napoleon III would seize the crown of Italy for himself and put Tuscany-Lombardy into submission. Lorenzo saw the letter as nearly a joke. Declining this offer, however, would probably invoke the romans' wrath upon them - thus, supporting the Dual Kingdom in its invasion of Rome could not only lead to a growth in relations with them, but also help them crush this threat with minor effort. Once the decision had been taken, the government put them into action.

TO: The Kingdom of Rome
FROM: The Kingdom of Tuscany-Lombardy

Greetings. As we worry about the safety of our own people, we see ourselves forced to decline your offer to join this Italian Confederation, as we acknowledge that this act would offend the Dual Kingdom of Catalonia and Naples and other of our neighbouring nations, with which we have already established good relations, and would plunge our nation into an unnecessary war. We hope you respect this choice of ours. The main duty of our government is to provide the best conditions to our people and we will do anything to ensure it shall be fulfilled.

On behald of His Majesty,
Lorenzo III de' Medici, King of Tuscany-Lombardy.

TO: The Dual Kingdom of Catalonia and Naples
FROM: The Kingdom of Tuscany-Lombardy

Greetings. As we acknowledge the threat that this rebel Kingdom of Rome poses to the established order in the italian peninsula, and the long-standing friendship between our nations, we would like to extend a hand in your direction and aid you in the fight against this foe. For this reason, we shall be supplying your troops with the needed ammunitions, medicine and food. Our strategists have decided that it would be best if this was done in secrecy. We shall also allow those of our citizens who wish to fight to join your lines. We understand that victory has a price, and this may be hard to accomplish, but even then, we ask that you preserve civillian life in Rome if possible, since they are still our brethren, even though some were misguided by the honeyed words of a tyrant. May God help us in bringing this aggressor to justice.

On behalf of His Majesty,
Lorenzo III de' Medici, King of Tuscany-Lombardy.

(WIP)

by **The Holy Dominion of Inesea** » Sun Jan 11, 2015 9:54 am

#Nestor

by **Valentir** » Sun Jan 11, 2015 10:41 am

Reserved

by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Mon Jan 12, 2015 7:28 pm

The Dual Kingdom of Catalonia and Naples

El Dual Regne de Catalunya i Nàpols

Into the Heart of Darkness
Sant Jordi, Cap-Verd | July 2nd 1881 Anno Domini

As part of the newly formed Conservative Government's agenda, expanding the Dual Kingdom was one of their utmost priorities. Economic expansion was at the heart of the government's agenda, and a commission had been formed to plan this expansion. It was decided that expanding the Dual Kingdom's claims in West Africa was a must, and an expedition of military vessels, soldiers, explorers, and missionaries arrived at the mouth of the Senegal River. They landed and established Sant Filipe, named after the Prince of Girona himself. The first things constructed were a fort for the garrison of Catalan soldiers and a Catholic mission, of which would be used to convert the local populace to the one true faith. Over time the Catalan settlement continued to expand, while several frigates from the Royal Navy sailed down the Senegal River and claimed more land in the name of the Crown. Expeditions of explorers also began to scout out the surrounding area, claiming more land in the name of the Catalan Crown. Encounters with the natives were also made, most of which had initially resulted in cordial meetings. As this went down the Senegal, two frigates from the Royal Navy also sailed down the Gambia River, claiming the river's shores in the name of their monarch.

Prince Filipe had granted a charter for the new territory, and the Royal Senegal Charter was established. An agreement was struck in which the government would provide military protection as well as provide the charter with basic infrastructure, namely roads and canals. The charter planned on planting cotton near the newly founded settlement of Sant Filipe, as well as harvesting the local peanut crop and extracting the gum arabic the region was rich in, along with the sugar the northern region of the colony was rich in. The charter would also begin a policy of forced labor, and would provide laborers to both itself and any other organization or institution of which wanted to acquire forced laborers for a fair price. As a brutal colonial policy would fall upon the newly established colony, some natives were sparred. All citizens of the city of Sant Jordi, regardless of race or creed would be recognized as citizens of the Dual Kingdom, isolating them from those throughout the rest of Senegal.

Some of the native kingdoms saw it fit to maintain cordial relations with the Crown, and thus were incorporated into the colony as protectorates and would receive substantial autonomy in exchange for their cooperation. However, several refused and resisted the Catalans, resulting in the battle of Battle of Logandème, between the forces of the Dual Kingdom and King Maad a Sinig Sanmoon Faye Joof, of the Kingdom of Sine and his supporters. The two met on the field of battle, and the King of Sine charged at the Catalan forces, hoping to penetrate the line. The attack proved disastrous, and the natives quickly went on the retreat. The king returned with his cavalry, only to be defeated once more. It was estimated by the Viceroy of Sant Jordi, Alfons Toset i Vivas, that over 200 Sine men had been killed, while only five Catalan soldiers were wounded. The battle saw the defeat of the Kingdom of Sine, along with the Kingdom of Saloum. The Kingdom of Waalo fought on the side of the Dual Kingdom, after aligning itself with the Crown rather than fighting a futile war of resistance. Immediately following the battle Fatick, one of the most important principalities in the Sine Kingdom, and the surrounding villages were torched by the Catalans, resulting in the death and displacement of thousands of Sines. Viceroy Toset i Vivas then forced the Sine king to sign a treaty, in which guaranteeing freedom of Catalan commerce, allowing the Catalan a monopoly of trade, giving the Royal Senegal Charter the right to buy land and build in masonry, the taxes paid to Sine would only be a 1 percent export duty and Catalan subjects were to be tried in Catalan courts. The treaty also made King Maad a Sinig Sanmoon Faye Joof an effective puppet of the Catalans. The coastal holdings of the Sines would also be transferred directly to Catalan hands, namely the city of Joal. This helped to further the dominance of the Dual Kingdom in the region, and would allow them to maintain control of trade.

WIP Letter

Post Summary:

The Catalans have sailed down the Gambia and Senegal Rivers, claiming the land in the name of the Crown
After forming several treaties with native kingdoms, both by peaceful and militaristic means, the Dual Kingdom has absorbed all of the native kingdoms as protectorates.
Map of the Dual Kingdom's claims in West Africa

by **Neo-Assyrian Empire** » Mon Jan 12, 2015 7:56 pm

The Republic of Francia
Chapter Cinq: À l'Afrique, Nous Allons! (Deuxième Partie)

Alger, République de Francia
Juillet 7^me, 1881

To Be Added
- Frankish expansion into Algeria
- Frankish expansion into Algeria
- Algeria being invaded by Francia
- Frankish expansion into Algeria

by **Forty Twoania** » Tue Jan 13, 2015 4:30 pm

The Hellenic Republic
July 8th, 1881

Constantinople
The workers of the factories were in an uneasy confrontation with their employers. The workers demanded fair wages and safer working conditions. Red banners that hung from the balconies, fluttered in the wind showing the socialist support of the protests. The Socialist party was not very popular in the rest of Greece, the country side preferred to stick with the ultra-conservatives while Athens, Thessaloniki and other large cities were strongly in the hands of the liberals. Constantinople was the exception, a hub for radicalism and political outsiders. People from across the Balkans would come to Constantinople simply to argue their political thoughts in street side cafes. The textile workers union new this and decided to use a large city wide protest to force change down the throats of the factory owners. However, it was sheer coincidence that the union happened to choose a day in which the events in Athens had already put Constantinople's elite in a good mood thinking that higher profits were within reach. An agreement was signed and both parties went home happy for two completely different reasons.

Athens
A coalition of businessmen from across Greece meet at parliament. They were stressed from the crisis in Egypt unlike the Church which was still gloating upon its success in motivating the Republic toward intervention in Damietta. Egypt had pointed out a deep flaw in the Greek Economy, its dependence on foreign raw materials. Before the Crisis, Egypt was Greece's main importer of cotton and wool, two commodities essential to the industrializing Greek Economy. The Crisis interrupted the cotton trade forcing Greece to import from sources farther away such as India which asked significantly higher price and did not share the trade agreements with Greece as did Egypt. The Crisis lead many Industrialists to believe in the need of Greece to obtain its own sources of raw materials in order to feed it's growing textile industry. Greece could no longer fully depend on foreign imports. But how would Greece be able to break its dependence? Was a question that plagued many in Greece's Capitalist Class. As they began getting together and talking many idea's came forth. Some proposed investing in Cotton production in Cyprus, which was not only already part Greece but had an ideal climate, however it was only an island and was therefore limited by size. One fool even proposed challenging the Germans and establishing a Coptic state in Egypt that could later be annexed into Greece proper, thankfully this outlandish proposal was thrown out the window along with the proposer before it got too far. Finally their seemed to be an idea that could work. Africa! As technology progressed in Europe, the exploration of the Dark Continent was already being disused by many across the continent, maybe Greece could share some of the spoils. The lands of Somalia should great promise with rumors of fertile soil for cotton and plentiful fields for grazing sheep, grabbing the interest of many businessmen in the room. The Suez canal made Somalia reasonably close to Greece. Most importantly, however, the great Coptic Empire of Ethiopia, which was on good terms with Greece due to a similar faith and the Greek declaration of support of the Coptics of Egypt, held a strong presence in the region. Ethiopia could not only provide aid to the future Greek Colonies, reducing the price of transporting essential goods back and forth continuously, but could also provide some military support in helping Greece deal with any restless inhabitants of the region. The group of business men backing this idea presented their case to the Greek Government and received little resistance from parliament, only the socialists were a bit uneasy about the plan, and so the plan went forth.

Djibouti
Under the name of the Hellenic Geographic Society, a Greek expedition arrived in Africa escorted by two Cruisers, among them were various diplomats interested in establishing ties with the Sultanate of Aussa in order to pave the way for a stronger Greek influence in the region. An offer of friendship was extend towards the Sultanate in return for allowing Greece to economically develop the area. The Expedition was then to travel inland to the reclusive Ethiopian Empire in order to secure their support for Greek intentions in Somalia.

Treaty between the Hellenic Republic and the Sultanate of Aussa
July 28th, 1881

-The Hellenic Republic insures the protection of the Sultanate of Aussa against any threats it may face.
-The Hellenic Republic promises to pay the Sultan a yearly tribute, in return the Sultan cedes control of certain area's of the Sultanate of Aussa's economy to The Hellenic Republic.
-The Hellenic Republic purchases the coastal Djibouti Region on the Gulf of Tadjoura from the Sultanate of Aussa. The rights of all Muslims living in the region are to be guaranteed by the Hellenic Republic
-Greek Companies that are given permission by the Greek Government are allowed to purchase and develop resources in the Sultanate of Aussa in return for paying a reasonable tax to the sultan.
-The use of local labor by the Hellenic Republic and Greek Companies in order to develop the region is permitted so long as Islamic holy days are respected and a fair payment is given to the Sultan

To: The Empire of Ethiopia
Brothers of the Faith, the Hellenic Republic has long admired the triumphs of Ethiopia against the pagans that encircle the glorious African Kingdom and the Government of the Hellenic Republic believes it is only natural to offer Ethiopia a hand of friendship. The Hellenic Republic is interested in establish a stronger presence in Africa and a mutually beneficial trading relation with Ethiopia that would not only be profitable but would also allow Ethiopia to break free of its traditional encirclement by pagans.

Signed,
Prime Minister of the Hellenic Republic
Konstantinos Ciriaco

by **The Grand Republic of Hannover** » Thu Jan 15, 2015 9:11 pm

Empire of Brazil
Theme

Rivière de Janvier:

Oyez! Oyez!

The government kept receiving very encouraging letters from around the world congratulating Brazil for its historic move. Now was the turn for a Latin American nation. The government of Chile has not only praised the move by the King but also understood how politically divisive the reform could prove to be within the country - something Pierre II appreciated. He wasted no time to send a letter to Chile, a nation that could become an important trade partner to Brazil.

The ongoing war in North America gave the opportunity to Brazil to do a number of things. First, Brazil could help its brother in need in that war. Second, the Brazilian army could gain much needed experience in a battlefield that is seeing far more advanced tactics than the ones used by Brazil. And third, it could open a window of opportunity for Brazil to play a greater role in the continent. Recognizing the benefits, Pierre II sent a letter to the leader of Nouvelle France.

With the letters sent, Pierre II then focused on a pending issue in the Brazilian economy - infrastructure. It was quite evident that the modernization of the infrastructure of the country would take years but if the government did not start one day it will never accomplish its goal. The King wanted to kick start an infrastructure program that would give maintenance and expand the rail lines of the country. Considering the size of the nation, the project would have to be tackle in segments. The government decided that the first projects should be focused on the southern regions of the country (St. Bernard de Clairvaux [Sao Paulo], etc) and the construction of a line that connects Compiègne (Manaus) with the country's existing rail system. The hope was that with such line, the western regions of Brazil would finally have part of the access needed to unlock their economic potential.

Yet, due to the large size of the project, the Brazilian government could not finance alone the construction of the entire new rail system. The country would need to seek investments from countries such as Francia, Germany, the Commonwealth, Nouvelle France, and Portugal, among others. The government studied the possibility of starting public-private projects as well as fully private projects to kick-start a golden age in infrastructure.

New Lorraine: The Crisis of the Continent
Theme

Pierre II knew that Argentina's indifference was his opportunity to further assert Brazilian dominance over New Lorraine. The Brazilian Generals began to plan for a response to a possible invasion from Argentina - To them it was utterly foolish not to think that Argentina was planning an invasion of Brazil. If they suddenly start a rapid invasion, the enemy forces could be at the doorstep of Rivière de Janvier in a matter of two months. Following the King's order to move swiftly and decisively, the Brazilian navy sent a fleet of 4 ships a few miles away from the coast of New Lorraine's capital city. Additionally, the Brazilian Army sent 5,000 troops to Borloo (Brazilian Island) - a strategic island in the middle of Argentina, New Lorraine and Brazil. Another 5,000 troops were sent to Chuí - a town of mixed cultures lying on the border with New Lorraine.

While visiting the city of Cambadélis (Salvador), King Pierre II once again asserted his position on New Lorraine. In a speech in the main plaza of the city, he said, "My dear people. We confront one of the greatest challenges of our time. A growing, rising Argentina threatens our very own basic existence. That wicked government to the south of us has not only diligently worked to keep New Lorraine divided from the rest of our country but by doing so is also placing a great danger in front of us. New Lorraine is rich in its agricultural blessings. It has soy, it has wheat, it has livestock. Argentina, which already has a massive output on these products, wants to further monopolize the market in order to gain influence in the region. By controlling most of the very same food supply of the region, Argentina will be able to swing the prices of these basic products to human existence, in order to damage own agricultural sector, take it out of business and make us more dependent on that wicked government.

Let it be known that Brazil will not stand by to see such thing happen. We will not permit that Argentina slaves the continent through suck wicked, dirty, and inhumane matters! Every bullet will be responded with a bullet. Every bomb with a bomb. And a every death with five. Long live Brazil!"

818 - Tracking purposes

by **Relikai** » Thu Jan 15, 2015 10:47 pm

The Republic of Argentina

The Dawn of a New Era

Dieter von Argentina, the wise and charismatic visionary of Argentina, sat at the seat of the high chair overlooking the halls of the senate. Most of the ministries have delivered their reports, and have returned to their respective halls to draw up the aims of the week, goals for the months and plans for the year. Bastian Hossien, the Foreign Minister, has just delivered a report of antagonistic Brazilian activity along the border of New Lorraine, attempting to influence the noble Deutsche nation with the propaganda of the snivelling French.

"Minister Hossien, we shall remain indifferent. The Deutsche Lichtschutz stationed at Fort Beschützer shall remain the primary expeditionary force into allied Deutsche territory should the Brazilians aim to take the country by force. Ensure that the Regiments are alert and nearby, that they might reinforce New Lorraine within 2 days of hard marching."

"Sir, I also bring a letter from Gran Colombia's President, President Rafael Nunez."

Reading the letter, Dieter responded to the Foreign Minister.

"I should not miss an opportunity to meet a northern neighbour. Write up letters of diplomatic travel for my entourage, we shall travel by the fastest frigate. I require no soldiers, the marines would do for a military escort throughout this travel... I shall reply first, and leave by the next week. Also, prepare our fast ships for diplomatic dispatches."

To: President Rafael Nunez of Gran Colombia
From: President Dieter von Argentina of Argentina

Best greetings to you, President Nunez of Gran Colombia. It is of the highest honour that I accept your invitation to visit your marvellous nation. Indeed our aims are similar, and there is no greater way to expedite progress than having a partner by each other's side. I shall arrive by steamship in a month, and look forward to be graced by your presence.

Sincerely yours,
President Dieter von Argentina of Argentina

To: Lord Protector Archibald Primrose
From: President Dieter von Argentina of Argentina

Best greetings to you, Lord Protector Archibald Primrose of the Great Commonwealth. The Republic of Argentina would like to seek trade and business partnership with your great and mighty nation. We have come far after overthrowing the yoke of Prussian oppression, and now seek allies from Europe. We seek partnership and alliances, as well as to import arms for the modernisation of our Army. In return we can first promise that the islands off Argentina will be protected to the best of the Argentinian Navy, that they will remain under your sovereignty as much as I will it.

Sincerely yours,
President Dieter von Argentina of Argentina

To: Prime Minister João Chagas
From: President Dieter von Argentina of Argentina

Best greetings to you, Prime Minister João Chagas. The Republic of Argentina would like to seek trade and business partnership with your great and mighty nation. We have come far after overthrowing the yoke of Prussian oppression, and now seek allies from Europe. We seek partnership and alliances, as well as to import arms for the modernisation of our Army. In return we can first promise that investors and traders coming to our nation shall be charged with a much lower tariffs and goods being exported to your nation be charged at a much lower price. We can also offer precious goods as gift to cement new relations among our nations.

Sincerely yours,
President Dieter von Argentina of Argentina

"Theres that. Commission the Republican Ship and prepare the crew. I know we have just concluded the monthly checks, but we have a week to ensure it is in its best conditions for the race north."

While the discussion was going on with Dieter and the Bastian, other ministers are in their Ministry Halls pondering over plans and reports. Roads are to be improved for much easier and faster transportation inter-hub, and five new settlements are planned for expansion into minor towns for further exploitation of their resources. Infrastructure-wise Argentina benefited greatly from plans and quality of German engineering, and the descendants are determined to one-up those who they managed to overthrow.

Agricultural improvements are also being put into place, as well as the most important factor - Education. Reverse engineering German technology has yielded an abundance of knowledge and is being taught in academies and laboratories around the country.

Deutsch Pride, Deutsch People, Deutsch Unity

One thing that the Deutsche Lichtschutz could do when stationed at Fort Beschützer, is to don civilian clothing and cross the border to interact with fellow Germans who also overthrew the yoke of German oppression. Fellow soldiers interacting, of the common tongue, common culture and with a common enemy. The only thing that the Argentinians and Lorrainians have to thank the French, is for them to lose a war in order for the two countries to win independence. Talk of common ground, common subjects and keeping an eye on a common enemy is the forte of the troops when they spend their pay at the local bars. Even the drinks are German, for only German drink is strong enough.

"You heard of the Brazilians, they who would like to spread lies and nonsense to break our unity?" A Lichtschutz sergeant complained to the fellow patrons at a coaching house.
"Tour? What tour... the only tour I'd like to have, is my prussian rifle up Bonnie's Arse!" He yelled to great laughter among the crowd. Being a professional soldier of the Deutsche Lichtschutz, who the Argentinian Leadership has pledged are the ones who will guarantee New Lorraine's independence, the respect from the common man has already been established. Now through friendly interactions and playing on the common issue - Irritation at an intrusive culture, New Lorraine shall never lose its pride as being a German people who defeated a German overlord.

by **Baja California y Sonora** » Mon Jan 19, 2015 7:58 pm

Tsarizm Alyaski

By mid June the Alaskan Capital felt the chilly winds of the Arctic hug the faces of the wooden buildings. Citizens of the city were aware of their short summers, yet continued on with life as if nothing had changed. Baranovaichka was renowned for nothing more than being a sloppy copy of St. Petersburg and being the home of the Royals. It was at the peak of Konstantine's I reign when the capital was moved from Novo-Arkhangelsk to an empty patch of land where resources where abundant. There Konstantine attempted to create a city at his image, the way Peter did in Russia. Instead what arose where budget constraints, poor planning and a half-done job that resembled a finer frontier town. Regardless of the city's construction problems, the Tsar forced Alaska's nobles to move to Baranovaichka and soon following where fishermen, hunters, woodsmen and the prospect seekers. Within years, the small town became Alaska's very own metropolis, home of factories, diplomats and scholars. The wind continued to blow across the busy main street, mountains by the sea, and a palace equivalent to the one in Moscow overlooked the growing city, the Tsar overlooked his country.

Bird's eye view of Baranovaichka

Three Saint's Palace, Baranovaichka

The Tsar looked out his office's window. His window overlooked the palace's garden, which at this time of year there was not much to look at. With a deep sigh he spun around to his desk which he glanced at for a few seconds, his desk was a well built pine structure, imported all the way from Moscow, it too fit the dark green room nicely. Running his fingers across the smooth surface of his desk; the Tsar retreated back to his desk and pulled out a pen- before hearing a knock on his door. "Enter", inside came rushing a little man in his forties, balding and redfaced due to long term exposure to the Alaskan cold. Vladimir entered the room and comfortably sat in one of the fine chairs that matched the desk and across from Ivan. Valdimir was an intimate of Ivan, he had known him as a child, when he served under his father- a loyal and hardworking man he is, choosing to leave the comfort of Baranovaichka to serve in the borderlands. "Ah Vladimir! What brings you to Baranovaichka?" exclaimed the Tsar cheerfully. The voice of Vladimir was not as cheerful however, it had the sound of an angry man and the aftertaste of bitterness " My lord, I come with the most direst news. A Colonial German newspaper has reached to us. It states of their westward expansion into the Great Wilderness. Sir, I have served in the borders for twelve years now; we have done little to expand, very few Alaskans cross the mountains; I believe it is time to act." "Yes, but what do you want me to do about it? I can't force Alaskans to settle those barren lands, for all I care the Germans can have that wasteland. It offers us nothing more than just a hassle!" Taking a deep breath and lowering his voice Vladimir responded. " There is gold in the rivers of that so called wasteland. About 5 weeks ago, I and a few other soldiers went on an expedition to explore the land past our border. We continued eastward charting our surroundings, when we came across an uncharted river. As darkness was falling we decided to set camp by the river and continue our path the next day. However in the early morning of the next day, I was the first to awaken, I decided to get some water from the river and as I leaned in close to the water I see that the rocks underneath the water shined. I soon realized that what I was looking at was gold! I collected a few samples and ordered the expedition back, I came here as soon as possible." Soon afterwards Vladimir pulled out a small bag out of his satchel. He poured the contents on the Tsars desk, it was gold.

"Gold? Why we've struck gold! We can make a fortune out of this! We can attract investors, immigrants- How much is there?"
"I wouldn't be able to tell you, however I do know that we must keep this a secret for the time being. Spreading the news of gold in no mans land will only cause for unwanted attention. We must first assert our claims to those areas, settle them! Station Alaskan troops there!" Vladimir's excitement had infected the Tsar. "Show me maps of the area, tell me everything you know about the area! Is there natives? Pulling out maps and notes he had taken and handed them to the Tsar who glared at them- Vladimir responded "Yes there are natives, plenty too. They are very disunited though, the ones near our controlled land are fairly friendly to us, though not much can be said about another tribe further eastward. They are very primitive no match for us, though they do pose as a threat to our expansion plans."
"How about the Germans?"
"They are far from us, no threat as of now-though we cannot underestimate them."

...

.

by **Caltarania** » Tue Jan 20, 2015 1:11 pm

Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland

Chapter 3 - Rise of the Reds

Leeds, Yorkshire
August 2nd, 1881

The city of Leeds was alive with the noise of unrest. Decades of low wages and poor working conditions within the many textile mills and other industrial factories of the city had left the population chafing under the capitalist class. This, in turn, had led to the events of this week; the Leeds General Strike. It had started on the 29th of August - four days ago - with the weavers of the textile mills, who had threatened to go on strike unless wages were raised from their current rates by three sixpence; the mill owners had, of expected, refused this demand. What happened after this event, however, was when the real events began. Word spread like wildfire throughout the city, that the weavers had been refused a wage rise and were refusing to work. The first to hear was the railway workers, who responded to the strike by petitioning for their own wage increases, by four sixpence. They were refused, and too went out on strike.

By the 30th of August, the labourers of the factories in the north of the city too heard of the strike, and requested their own pay rise, from their current rate up by five sixpence. The factory owners dismissed these requests, and soon these labourers too went on strike. Slowly but surely, the city was descending into a general strike. Though this was no organised affair, very much the opposite, a spontaneous event spawning from the wishes of a few low-paid weavers. Next it was the canal workers and the labourers in the south of the city, who demanded an extra six sixpence, and were refused. They were followed by the craftsmen and the labourers of the east, who demanded an extra seven sixpence, and were refused. On the following day of the 1st of August, it was the labourers of the west and the other, minor, occupations. Everyone from the butchers to the bakers to the candlestick-makers, all on strike in protest of poor working conditions, low wages and the inequality present due to the free market. It was a Red Revolution.

The city had drawn to a complete standstill. The trains did not move, the factories did not churn out goods and the mills did not spit out textiles. By the 2nd of August, the effect of the General Strike had become apparent, as the factory owners began to 'encourage' the use of the Commonwealth military to 'disperse' the strikers, who had by this time occupied vast swathes of the city, including the city centre. Military officials, however, refused to act without government approval; and such a thing would be difficult to attain due to the growing complexity of the Parliamentary make-up. Within the Parliament, the Social Democratic Liberal Party associated with the strikers, while the National Liberals, High Tories and Conservatives agreed with the use of military force to disperse the strikers; and due to the split of the Old Liberal Party, the house was quite literally split in two equal halves.

Back in Leeds, the strikers had grown increasingly organised. By the eve of the day, the various striking groups had united under the Leeds Worker's Association; the first all-encompassing Trade Union in the Commonwealth. It was headed by the Council of Leeds Workers, and was able to effectively organise the strike in a professional manner. One of the leader's of this council, a man by the name of William Henry Drew, had recently begun to lobby with the SDL party for support on the matter of wages, having sent a large number of letters to Westminster. It was not long before the Social Democratic Liberal Party had passed a motion whereby the House believed that the wages of workers in the Commonwealth was too low in order to pay for their various expenses. The SDL party believed that they could pass the motion with ease; after all, they had half of the house under their control. They were to be wrong, however, as the main opposition group - the National Liberals - had organised an unofficial coalition with the two other rightist parties; the Conservatives and the High Tories.

This new coalition had split the House evenly, fifty fifty, between the two polar opposites. It would seem that nothing would be able to be done through the Houses of Parliament, and so the Henry Campbell-Bannerman lobbied Archibald Primrose - the Lord Protector - so that he could intervene and use his emergency powers to create a 'Wage Minimum, Below Which No Wage Can Be Served' - as the House had dubbed it - that would regulate the wages of workers in certain industries, forcing businesses and corporations to pay workers above or at a certain margin. Primrose pondered on the situation for many hours, before finally believing that something had to be done to quell the rioting. Within the matter of a day, the Lord Protector's order had been delivered across the country, and the rioting and strikes in Leeds drew to a close. The new ideology of Trade Unionism had been formed; and the Social Democratic Liberal Party was eager to rally the trade unionists under the banner of Social Democratic Liberalism.

New Llanfair, Auralia
August 9th, 1881

Inside the Government House of New Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch - or as it is more often referred to, 'New Llanfair' - was alive with the sound of debating. John Forrest - a former explorer and now councilor in the Council of Auralia - had started the uproar, after proposing that the five colonies on the continent of Australia - along with the three others in Oceania - should form a united, federal colony. Forrest had promoted his argument by citing the growing Australian identity within the Commonwealth, and by referencing the success of federalism in the Home Islands. There were issues, however, as the island-colony of Timor was not ethnically British or culturally Australian, yet Forrest promoted it to become part of this federation also. In addition, the colonies of Wilberforce Island and the Cocos and Christmas Islands were also suggested to become part of this new federation, though the former had the most political Aboriginal population of all the colonies and the latter was to far to ever be able to send representatives to any kind of 'federal government'. Nevertheless, Forrest continued his campaign to form a federal colony of Australia.

Forrest had allies on this matter, of course. Charles Cowper, the Governor of the colony of New West Yorkshire, and James Hipwood of Lutherania were among them. Their main opponent was Henry Parker, who ardently believed in retaining the old boundaries of the colonies and also in restricting the democratic power that the citizens of the colonies held. "These colonies have done fine without a federal body of... unification." Parker had said, halfheartedly. His age was getting to him, and he was frequently forced to leave the debates early in order to care for his ill-health. That did not stop Forrest from hitting back at him, however. "This is not merely a matter of need, Mr. Parker!" he barked. "These colonies are drawn on arbitrary lines! They do not account for the growing sense of Australian identity! Have you not heard the song of the people?" Forrest continued. "It sings of an Australia, united in it's patriotism!" Cowper said, after Forrest had finished. Parker looked up at them both, his brow crested in a frown. He stood from his slouched position and barked back at the federalists. "With all due respect, Mr. Forrest, I do not care for a song. Songs are merely words transcribed to a melody; that is no... basis for government."

Forrest then shouted back at Parker. "You are incorrect, Parker. Songs are the most powerful tools in existence. They can rally an army, or lay one to rest. They can inspire a revolution, or crush one to death. There is naught more powerful than a song, Mr. Parker, and our song is the most powerful of all!" Forrest then looked around the room, seeing the councilors present. They were an odd bunch. The council, today, was filled not just with councilors from Auralia, but from across Australia. There were upstanding businessmen from Olivarius, aboriginal tribesmen from Wilberforce Island, gold tycoons from Northern Australia, Atoni hunters from Timor, labourers from New West Yorkshire and such other people of humanity. An odd bunch, Forrest thought, though united in one thing. Forrest nodded to Cowper and Hipwood, before he began to sing the song of his people; it was named O' Straylia.

"O Straylia." he began, his voice mellow and deep. "Our home and native land!" he continued, joined by the federalist members of the House. "True patriot love in all thy sons command." he then followed with, this time joined by the aboriginals of the house who began to sing in their own tongues. "With glowing hearts we see thee rise," Forrest noted that even some of the non-federalist members of the house - neutrals and federalist-leading colonialists - had begun to join in the singing. "The True South strong and free!" By this point, every member of the house bar Parker was singing the song of the Australians. "From far and wide," he then said, silently as the rest of the house still sang the song with full lungs. He looked to the Atoni and other representatives of Timor, and the representatives of the Cocos and Christmas Islands, and the representatives of Wilberforce Island. All of them singing, in both English and their native tongues. "O Straylia, we stand on guard for thee." they sang. "Hope keep our land glorious and free! O Straylia, we stand on guard for thee." they still sang, their lungs full as ever. "O Straylia, we stand on guard for thee." the house fell near silent, and then erupted into applause, with many of the house cheering "O Straylia! O Straylia! O Straylia!" By nightfall, representatives of all the states would have signed the Australian Constitution.

From His Excellency, Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland
Archibald Philip Primrose

Dear Stanislaw, third of his name, Emperor of Ruthenia,

Greetings, Most Imperial Highness. Today I write to you with both great pride and great regret. The peace that has covered the continent of Europa for many a moon has begun to crumble. If the Second Frankish Empire, which has been forged from the marriage of the two eagles of west and east, chooses to interrupt the Concert of Europe's song with the drums of Prussia and the pipes of Paris, then I fear that Europe - and indeed the World - will never be the same again. For while the Concert plays it's tune, there is peace. The trumpets of war do not sound while the harp of peace is in the mist of it's melody, yet I fear that this new Alliance will tear the harp out of the sky and will end the peace that has sheltered this continent from despair and destruction.

It is with this revelation that I - as Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland - on behalf of the Lord Protector Archibald Philip Primrose, on behalf of the Houses of Parliament of this Commonwealth and on behalf of the subjects beneath the rule of the Commonwealth henceforth ask the Emperor of Ruthenia to stand beside the Commonwealth in these dark times.

May the Lion and the White Eagle stand together.

Warm Regards,

RH Prime Minister Henry Campbell-Bannerman
Representative of HE Archibald Philip Primrose, Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland

From His Excellency, Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland
Archibald Philip Primrose

Dear Dieter von Argentina, President of Silberien,

Greetings, Your Excellency. As Prime Minister, I cannot speak for the businesses and firms of the Commonwealth, though I am sure that they already participate in trade with your nation at the current time. In regards to the prospects of an alliance between the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland and the Republic of Silberien, we have brought it in front of the Houses of Parliament and the House of Commons has approved the motion, henceforth aligning our nations through a bond of military cooperation.

Warm Regards,

RH Prime Minister Henry Campbell-Bannerman
Representative of HE Archibald Philip Primrose, Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland

by **Liecthenbourg** » Tue Jan 20, 2015 3:25 pm

Les Etats-Unis de Nouvelle France
Seattle, California

Chapter 5: Quelque a touché ma soupe...?
3rd of September, 1881 AD

Seattle had fallen. Flags had been removed at once, with many furled flags now scattered in piles across plazas and piazzas. The bombardment was fierce indeed, with the outer defences of the city crumbling to ruin by the time the bombardment had been complete. The next step was as brutal as efficient, with the many guerilla-esque regiments marching in first, eliminating any remaining defence posts with their rifles or the oddly found bow and arrows. This was followed by a swift and decisive cavalry sweep that in turn was backed up by multiple line infantry advances onto the city. By the time the town hall was in view, whatever remained of the military in the city had organised a surrender of the city as to prevent more loss. General Baie had immediately taken action, with having sent the information to the Megikans about the successes and how he planned on pushing down the coast to strike at the important cities. Now however, his wounded were resting in hospitals, his active dinning on their rations and the rest merely regrouping themselves into their respective groups. It had been a good day.

Ville de Quebec, Quebec

Café Rigaud was famed, in truth, for being the preferred lunch time dining spot for many of the Nouvelle Francais politicians. This was especially true on a cold snowy day, or a warm day where many would rather be much more willing to cool themselves off. Here sat Senator Dejarlais, a portly fellow but with a mind as sharp as his wit. He would normally dine with some friends, but today he had the privilege of enjoying his meal in some privacy. Once the waiter had come to take his order, it was the usual: a bowl of the daily soup, one which was flavoured with chicken and sprinkled with wine, a platter of seafood accompanied by steaming rice and for dessert, the Senator had always enjoyed in the hot summers a nice and refreshing bowl of a forest fruit flavoured ice-cream treat, specially prepared every day for a set amount of time. As he sat reading the morning paper, flicking through the news articles with relative calmness. He'd glance at his pocket watch from time to time and before long a figure had blocked off the light allowing him to read comfortably. Dejarlais set down the paper onto his lap and raised an eyebrow.

"Senator Tremblay?" he inquired. He would have never expected Tremblay to come to speak to him, they sat on the opposite side of the fence in regards to the California War. He saw it as a necessary precaution, whereas Tremblay was vehemently against it.

"Hello, my friend." Tremblay began as he removed his hat and held it in his left hand. "May I?"

"But of course."

Tremblay sat down and Dejarlais placed the paper on the seat beside him. They sat in relative in silence before Dejarlais raised up his hands and stroked his small beard.

"How can I serve you, Mr Tremblay."

"I merely came to chat."

"Regarding?"

"The war, good sir."

"My mind wont be changed."

"A pity. But still, you must un-"

"I understand that a sovereign nation believes it can do as it likes on our Western Border. I understand we are preventing them from doing so. Am I wrong?"

"Depends on whom you ask."

"I listen to our president and prime minister." Dejarlais retorted, bringing forth the paper once again. "Now, if you're quite finished, you may leave."

Nothing else was said and Tremblay departed as the soup was placed down onto the table. Dejarlais once again set down the paper, allowing it to gracefully fall onto his lap before he tucked the napkin under his neck. He reached for his spoon and heard the Café door open, most likely Tremblay leaving the fine establishment. It did not bother the portly fellow and he continued to dine on his fine soup. A few minutes had past and the large fellow had clutched his chest in pain before he fell from his seat and collapsed onto the rugged floor of the Café. Waiters, commoners and his fellow politicians alike came to his aide but he only spoke one final sentence before they determined his pulse had stopped.

"Quelque a touché ma soupe..?"

To: The Foreign Office of the Empire of Brazil
From: Jean-Baptiste Leclerc, President of Les Etats-Unis de Nouvelle France

I am heavily honoured by your ideas of helping my nation. I can safely speak for all of the Nouvelle Francais at the addition for Brazilian forces on the field of battle, and I can already heavily agree on the idea of an economic assistance pact for your nation.

Perhaps we can arrange and official meeting?

Yours sincerely,

by **The Grand Republic of Hannover** » Fri Jan 23, 2015 11:03 am

Empire of Brazil
Theme

Rivière de Janvier:

Oyez! Oyez!

Through the past few months the government of Brazil was congratulated for its move against slavery. Yet, not everything was positive and the negative effects everyone feared were settling. Throughout the empire, especially in the slave regions, unemployment suddenly spiked up, government expenditures went through the roof, and social tension was building up. Aristocrats in some regions of the country were now sabotaging the government by refusing to pay any taxes and even bribing tax collectors to cook the books. To Pierre II their was act was not only a sabotage but a way to undermine and challenge the legitimacy of his reign. He knew that if he let it continue it could potentially spark a reactionary revolution in the country but if he tackled upfront the results could be the same.

After days of long meetings with his advisers, ministers, and clergy officials, among others, the king decided that the issue should be dealt with through secretive ways. The Ministry of Interior, under the intelligence body of the country (Service D'information National), created the Vigilance and State Defense Police (Vigilance et Police Défense de l'État). This secret police would cooperate with other agencies of the country in order to begin a program to detect any revolt movement. Much focus was placed on slave regions where the aristocracy undermined state power. The king reasoned that by keeping a close eye when planning of a revolt is underway, those aristocrats would be charged with treason against the State, the Monarchy, and the People of Brazil. However, using any connections to the controversial anti-slavery act could prove disastrous. Thus, instead the government will use the New Lorraine Question as the connection to the revolts - aristocrats against Brazilian interests in New Lorraine for some beneficial reason or, even worse, for bribes coming from Argentina. The rising nationalism in the country would make such trials much easier to succeed.

Such force was also tasked with missions along the border with New Lorraine, Argentina, and the Andean Dictatorship to keep the Brazilian armed forces well informed of any plan to destroy social order in bordering regions.

The Brazilian government also ordered the expansion and modernization of Port de Abélard in order to handle a higher tonnage of cargo as well as a higher influx of trading ships. The local government of the city received funds from the national government in order to start an urbanization program and the improvement of the healthcare services in the city. City planners from abroad created a new development program for the city based and inspired from New York City's grid. Pierre II hoped that Port de Abélard would become to Brazil what St. Petersbourg became to Russia.

New Lorraine: The Crisis of the Continent
Theme

June 21st, 1882:

After sending a military fleet a few miles away from New Lorraine's capital city, the Brazilian Navy decided to become more assertive of Brazil's demands. At approximately 4 AM, the fleet began to, what appeared to be, performed military exercises. The fleet simulated an amphibious invasion as well as a defense to a hypothetical incoming enemy fleet. Yet what was interesting about this exercise was not its program but where it was directed. Instead of being directed northeast (at New Lorraine's capital), the fleet was facing southwest (towards Argentina's capital.) Although the fleet was closer to New Lorraine's capital than to Argentina's, the message was clear. (Visual aid)

On June 25th, the government of Brazil, through a collaboration between the Ministry of War and Defense and the Ministry of Interior's secret police, launched secret raids in New Lorraine. The services of a Portuguese company famously known by its initials CC were hired. In order to not generate any suspicion on Brazil's responsibility, the forces were instructed to begin their raids in the southern part of the country. On June 29th, the forces began to attack the outskirts of the cities of Durazno and Trinidad. Yet, instead of moving into the cities themselves the forces retreated and continued their raiding in smaller villages and towns throughout the middle-to-southern sections of New Lorraine. After a few days, new forces went into the country and began their actions in nearby the cities of Minas, Rocha, and Maldonado. The ultimate goal was to place pressure on New Lorraine's government and jeopardize its stability. (Visual aid)

818 - Tracking purposes

by **Senkaku** » Fri Jan 23, 2015 11:45 am

Ikh Mongol Uls

All Under the Blue Sky, Chapter Seven: Fallen from Heaven

Hall of Supreme Harmony, Khanbaliq

"May you live in exciting times."
-Ancient Chinese curse

Khanbaliq
The Golden Orchid Court
The Chancellery

"It will be a long fight. This is going to be ten times worse than Kobayashi, my lord. The empire will survive, but I have little hope once this rebellion is quashed. We do outnumber and outgun Zaichun, but..."
"I understand." Kublai leaned back in his chair, staring dully at the tranquil garden outside. "That my own son, my heir, could do this to us, to me... Cixi still supports him, you know. She wants me to side with him." The khagan shook his head. "I should tell you, I've been seriously considering abdicating."
"My lord?" The Chancellor looked alarmed.
"I have other sons, most of them capable. Temür is in Europe, but he'd make a fine khagan. Hulegu is another good candidate, or perhaps Yelu."
"My lord, I cannot advise that right now. We need every ounce of stability we can muster right now," the Vice-Regent said uneasily.
"I understand," Kublai muttered. "I hear he is claiming the throne now, as well?"
"We have heard of a kurultai in Bayan Tumen, yes."
"Very well." Kublai rose, and the other two men rose also, bowing deeply. "I take my leave," the khagan said gruffly, and strode out of the room.
Zhao Xian and Silin Ayan sat back down, staring for a long time at the garden outside.
Then the shooting started.

Baichuan Viceroyalty
Khanbaliq

For the second time in a fairly short span, the Mongol capital was once again in chaos. As the khagan returned from the Chancellery to the Forbidden City, he and his Kheshig guards were suddenly set upon by Gold Bird Guards, equipped with rifles and revolvers. The khagan, lightly wounded, was then spirited off to somewhere within the Golden Orchid Court, while members of the Kheshig and the Khevtuul were suddenly arrested or killed all across the imperial city by the Gold Bird Guards, who now roamed the streets in bands and appeared to be fortifying the Golden Orchid Court itself.
Vice-Regent Zhao and Chancellor Silin were not above this chaos. As this chaos erupted, the Gold Bird Guard even came for them, storming the Chancellery, slaughtering the guards who fought to defend perhaps the two most powerful men in the empire. Seven Gold Birds entered the office they had been sitting in, two of whom would still be alive around a minute later and none of whom would escape uninjured. The Chancellor, though, in his spirited defense of his person, shot through the stomach by a revolver-equipped officer as he and the Vice-Regent attempted to flee.

He died around ten minutes later, still fighting, alongside a few loyal Gold Birds and Kheshigs, holding the traitors off so that the Vice-Regent and a few other loyal soldiers could escape the deathtrap the Golden Orchid Court had become.
While Zhao Xian and three loyal soldiers made their famed and storied escape from Khanbaliq that afternoon, Manchurian officers in the city garrison instructed their soldiers to aid the Gold Birds, on orders of one General Niohuru Bayan. This particular general sent some of his personal cavalry, a unit of Jurchen riders, to storm the Gate of Divine Might, capturing a number of high-ranking officers and magistrates and killing several others. As news spread like wildfire, other generals came to meet with Lord Niohuru, and soon all of the soldiers in Khanbaliq, save for a scarce few who had been driven into hiding or killed, were under control of Lord Niohuru- and his friend and co-conspirator, Chief Minister Sun Liu. Riders and pigeons were dispatched from Khanbaliq in great haste, informing the governors and military commanders of the empire that the khagan had fallen ill and Minister Sun was assuming the regency.
Empress Cixi reportedly killed herself that afternoon, slashing her wrists with a razor blade while sitting on the imperial throne in the Hall of Supreme Harmony.

That evening, as the Vice-Regent rode hard towards the Yellow River, and Yinchuan beyond, he stopped at several forts along the way, and various small towns. The visit of the Vice-Regent himself was an overwhelming and totally unexpected honor for most of these small garrisons, and even those who had heard from Khanbaliq that the new crown regent had dismissed him willingly obeyed Xian when he ordered them to march with him. While the Vice-Regent amassed his forces and fled the imperial city, though, his erstwhile protégé was equally busy, reorganizing the military's high command, establishing control over Baichuan, Hanguo, Yapon, Yunnan, and Nanyu.

But even as he worked, so too did others.

Nanyu Viceroyalty
Nanchang

Nanchang, Nanchang, the greatest city in southern China, the Pearl of the South, the seat of the Viceroy of Nanyu...
Nanchang was a beautiful city, and populous, with nearly as many people as Khanbaliq. Its gardens and palaces were famed the world over, and this well-organized walled city remained a bastion of order in an empire that was rapidly descending into disorder and confusion. Here, the city watch oversaw the citizenry with a light hand, while the Viceroy oversaw his seat well and his deputies spared no expense to ensure it was kept running smoothly. Nanchang's defenses were perhaps even stronger than the capital's, with western-style earthen fortifications and heavy batteries of modern cannon in addition to the old stone walls- which themselves were high and thick and well-manned.

Now even Nanchang, the pride of Nanyu, would succumb to the madness that was rapidly overtaking the greatest empire the world had ever or would ever see.
Across the empire, in many cities, at around two in the morning, even while (unbeknownst to them) Sun Liu was reorganizing the government and the Vice-Regent was flying towards Yinchuan, the Communists finally had their moment in the sun. Various cells had organized different meeting times, but they were all similar enough to make no odds. A mob would gather in each city, at various places, on a night while a group of sympathetic soldiers were stationed in the city armory. These soldiers would then overpower their fellows as a host of civilians, waving red flags and what weapons they could find, attempted to storm the building, and they would open the doors, allowing the Communists to arm themselves. Other Communist soldiers, in cities with heavy artillery, would be waiting at their posts along the walls, to seize the cannons and give the Party a respite from any ill-advised bombardment.
In nearly every city in Baichuan Viceroyalty, as well as several in Hanguo and Yapon, this strategy was thwarted by Sun Liu's multitudes of troops. It also failed, for the most part, in Manchuria and Mongolia, leaving the Party in control of Bayan Tumen, Harbin, and little else, as Zaichun's lords used their private forces to smash the Communists. Chagatai was simply too far away for the Communists to have much power, but Hotan and a few small towns did fall to the sudden red wave.
In Nanyu and Yunnan Viceroyalties, though, as well as in many cities in Yapon and Hanguo, the Communist plot worked to perfection. There were few bastions of resistance in Nanyu and Yunnan- even Nanchang, Jewel of the Orient, fell to the rapid, frenzied coup. Many Mongol nobles fled the city, and the Viceroy, trapped in his palace, committed suicide rather than be beaten to death by the whipped-up mob that was engaged in storming his palace. Other nobles were slaughtered like sheep as they tried to flee, beaten to death like dogs by swarms of commoners. The same went for Kunming, Guangzhou, and many other cities.

After a full day of fire and bloodshed from the halls of the Golden Orchid Court to the streets of Nanchang, Mongolia was left utterly changed. The Communist cities, as of yet, had no central government or overarching direction, at least that was visible. The new regency in the north was still in a state of confusion, having come to power in the midst of a contemporaneous coup and an ongoing rebellion.

These were exciting times, indeed.

Chagatai Viceroyalty
Yarkand Pacification Army

"Dispatch from Osh, my lord viceroy." Buqa looked as grim and forbidding as the dark mountains on the western horizon, or the baking sand and rock that stretched out for miles before them. "The city has fallen to the rebellion. They say the Lion of Karaköl had the Governor and all the soldiers who refused to surrender impaled on sharpened stakes and their bodies hung from the minarets of the mosques."
Faisal didn't even blink, just sighing almost imperceptibly, his shoulders sagging. "Anything else?"
"The Grand Secretariat's spies say they've proclaimed a new Khanate of Osh and are recruiting soldiers from the Ferghana Valley's farms- the ones they control, anyways- for a march on Bishkek. Our forces marching on Bishkek sent in Altai ski troopers to remove the Tajik blockade at the pass, but the forces from Bishkek heading for Osh were turned back by the Kyrgyz and are now fortifying the passes."
"Well, that's a worry for another time, Buqa. Our scouts sent a dispatch just before you got here."
The Manchu lord raised his eyebrows. "Oh?"
"We'll be upon them in three hours or so- he's stopped in Yengisar, to rest and water his men and horses. And we got a message from Gertse's governor- he's dispatched 2,000 riders in a flying column to take Yarkand from behind."
"Have we given the order to prepare for battle?"
Before the Viceroy could give an answer, a horn suddenly wailed over the slow-moving column around their moving yurt, and shouts began to go up from outside.

The Battle of Yengisar was another of the many great turning points that took place during this time, in the rapidly-disintegrating Mongol Empire. While Osh was consumed in the flames of rebellion and the panicked, frenzied madness of every city that falls to invaders, 20,000 soldiers from the seat of the Viceroy met 15,000 men from Yarkand, the seat of the Batukhan family for generations. Viceroy Sajadi's men were hardly the elite of the Empire's armies (they were all in the capital or the east, many of them now fighting for their lives for one side or another)- many were conscripts and convicts, shipped thousands of miles from their homes in the green fields of China and Korea to die under distant skies in Yensigar. They were trained soldiers, though, and the Viceroy also had a contingent of battle-hardened Jurchen riders from Manchuria, nearly 1,500 strong, as well as a detachment of Gold Bird Guards numbering around 500 and equipped with modern weaponry.

On the opposing side, things were in rather poorer condition. Asadai Batukhan was not only outnumbered, he was seriously outgunned. Even Faisal's puny artillery park vastly outmatched his own, which consisted of a few elderly fieldpieces and catapults brought from Yarkand. His soldiers were of poorer material, mainly convicts or incompetent garrison troops who had only gone along with the march to try and save their own miserable hides. His best troops were 500 of the Batukhan household guard and a few hundred Mongol riders, along with a tiny contingent of troops, no more than 100, equipped with Nanchang Armory rifles that were far inferior and much older than the weapons the Viceroy's troops had. Not even his position is Yensigar, behind the town's pathetic mud-brick walls, was much of an advantage.
From his yurt, which he had had positioned on a nearby hill, Faisal watched through a telescope as Batukhan marched out. It was an unusual display of courage and mettle for a doomed man who had proved himself to be a coward so frequently- perhaps he sought redemption, or felt he had nothing left to lose. His troops were arrayed in a wide arc before Yensigar's walls, with a few remaining on them to man some hastily-constructed mud-brick and wooden barbettes that housed cannon and catapults. A few banners fluttered in the hot wind blowing from the north, off the Turfan Depression, and Faisal could make out the Batukhan family crest snapping from a pole stuck out of the town's only minaret for its only mosque.
Doubtless his counterpart was watching as well- probably, like Faisal, with a horse ready. Perhaps he was not so courageous after all.

Faisal's troops, meanwhile, had also formed a formation, with three main wedges of cavalry arranged in front of a broad line of infantry. His Jurchen riders and Gold Birds were front and center, and his few artillery teams had set up camp amidst the current infantry positions so they could get in range of them enemy.
The Viceroy waved a hand, a horn blew, and the battle commenced.

It would be over swiftly enough, anyways. Faisal's cavalry began trotting forward along with the infantry, until a few musket shots from Batukhan's line began bringing down random troopers here and there. They rapidly picked up to a canter, then to a full gallop, and charged through the increasing enemy fire. Most of it was just musketry or arrows, but Batukhan had deployed most of his riflemen on the walls of his left flank, near his own position. Faisal's Uzbek cavalry, deployed on that flank, suffered much heavier casualties, especially when their wedge was actually hit by cannon fire. However, they pushed through, and each cavalry wedge smashed into the enemy front lines with a devastating blow. Not even Batukhan's scant quantities of real pikemen could serve to hold them off, and soon the rebel line was broken in three places. The cavalry wheeled around before the walls, firing up at the cannon and catapults, which could not depress enough to hit them, and running down stray soldiers from the crumbling enemy line. Meanwhile, the infantry was getting close, and the first ragged volleys of musket fire began to chatter over the scorching plains, with the deeper report of Faisal's artillery echoing like someone yelling in a mausoleum.
Within an hour, Asadai Batukhan's army had been routed, and Yensigar fell. The former Viceroy did not escape- he was killed trying to fight his way out of the little town, by a pair of Uighur infantrymen- one of whom used a famous Yensigar-made knife to slash his throat from behind. Those of his men who surrendered were taken prisoner, for the march back to Kashgar, and his cannons were added to the Viceroy's small artillery park.
From here, it was just a long walk back.

Karakorum
The Imperial Palace

"We need to do something big, Viceroy, before Jalar's lords start to lose confidence."
"My lord, I cannot think of anything that will be enough after our defeat at Jehol. The Kheshig slaughtered our men like sheep- and many of them were Jurchen riders. If you have any hope of continuing this war with their support- which, I might add, is critical, since they will be providing the bulk of the infantry for this campaign- you need to do something major."
"But what?" Zaichun swore, waving his hands in the air. "The first attack on Khanbaliq was a failure. The Kheshig defeated our second thrust towards the city. The Summer Palace is a scorched, ghost-haunted husk that is completely useless without my father, who is safe as a clam in Khanbaliq. Apparently one of the Manchus launched a naval attack on Tianjin, also a failure, as were the attacks on Yinchuan and Hohhot by your cousin. The only success we have is not being completely crushed by the capital the instant we rebelled! And we are running out of money, time, and support now."
"My lord, you don't need to do much to defeat the enemy. All you need to do is make the capital turn on itself. If Khanbaliq is consumed with infighting-"
"Chief Minister Sun already has that under control for us, although we hear he's lost control of the south to another uprising. The pigeon came this afternoon while you were out."
"Minister Sun Liu?"
"Yes. He's launched a coup against the Vice-Regent and driven him off to Yinchuan, where old Xian had marshaled a few thousand men and is preparing for his last stand while the imperial army bears down on him."
"Your father permitted this?"
"My father had no choice. Apparently he's been imprisoned in Zhongnanhai, and Liu has declared a military regency for 'the duration of the continuing rebellions in the north and west'."
"Bad luck for your father."
"He was never a good politician. The only purpose he serves now is to give Khanbaliq an air of legitimacy, despite the fact it's basically Liu and some of Xian's 'friends' running the show. The reformists always thought even he was too slow, so we'll see how Liu does- I had no idea he was so ambitious, so perhaps his competence will surprise us."
"It need not, if he somehow loses his legitimacy."
"He controls the Board of War through his friend Niohuru. It won't matter if he's legitimate or not, he has the Army and the people love him for the work he's done before to bring bread prices down and build dikes and the like."
"I disagree. If he were to lose the Mandate of Heaven, it would mean that he had to rule by force, and ruling by force alone is not a workable strategy for long."
"What are you proposing, Viceroy?"
Iljigin shrugged, and Zaichun frowned, then shrugged also. "I see. It's possible... in fact, that might just work."

Khanbaliq
The Forbidden City
Zhongnanhai
Hall of Purple Light

"I am the khagan! You will tell me what is happening, you low-born scum!," Kublai raged. The servant bowed, placing the bowl of food on the table.
"Sire, I am not permitted to do that." She glanced at the guard in the corner, who carried a nightstick and a revolver.
"What higher power is there than your emperor who can command you otherwise?"
"Radiant lord, please enjoy your meal- and keep in mind the regency does not have to provide it," the girl snapped at him, and walked out.
Kublai's jaw dropped. How does she dare speak to the khagan in such an insolent manner? That little harlot! That dirty little whore! He rose, but the guard put a hand on his nightstick, staring straight ahead.
Kublai, unarmed, growled in frustration, and stormed off to the little bedroom he'd been granted.

In the evening, a few days later, the khagan was walking in the gardens, as he was permitted to at twilight and at mid-morning. Zhongnanhai was still beautiful, with its sculpted hills and long artificial lakes, its well-kept gardens a sharp contrast to the empire beyond its walls which seemed to be crumbling further by the day. Kublai stared at the white jade barge of Möngke Khan, which had sat idle for ten years- more than that, now- sitting placidly on the Southern Sea. In happier days, better days, Kublai might be aboard that very barge, receiving a Western ambassador or talking with the Grand Council or something of the sort. Early into his reign, he had considered scrapping it- it probably cost as much as the rest of Zhongnanhai combined, if not more- but had decided not to. After all, back then, the Empire's finances had not been so dire as they were now, and once he had decided not to scrap the ungainly, extravagant vessel he'd come to love it.
It was probably going to be destroyed, now.
Kublai turned and began walking back towards the Hall of Purple Light, feeling unhappy, and never felt the bullet that killed him.

The empire of Genghis Khan, which had endured for six hundred years and more, the greatest empire the world had ever or would ever see, the empire that had once united Asia under its banner, was coming to an end. Like all great empires, its fall had been a long, bloody affair, as its last leaders vainly hurled their vast resources at their realm's inevitable decline, and then began to fight amongst themselves, blaming one another for the thousand ills that beset them. In truth, it was not anyone's fault, though some had accelerated its decline. No empire endures forever, nor even do the lesser states around them. After more than half a millennium of Borjigin emperors, countless wars and rebellions, and an ever-changing world that shifted around the Uls like a worldwind, it was simply the empire's time to pass. Not even mountains endure forever- and Ikh Mongol Uls, the mightiest empire on Earth, had already outlasted plenty of mountains in its time.
Later historians would typically date the end of the Mongol Empire on September 9th, 1882, the day Kublai XI, the last khagan of the empire (at least the last one considered legitimate, his son Zaichun, who styled himself Genghis IX, was not considered a true khagan) was assassinated in the gardens where he was being held under house arrest. Many wonder what would have happened had the assassin's bullet failed to find its mark, for Kublai was still a cunning, powerful, and dangerous man, even under house arrest in Zhongnanhai- but what no historian would ever know, in later days, was that had Kublai XI, last khagan of Ikh Mongol Uls, would have died that day anyways. The Great Khan had always been a lover of good teas, and drank them with every meal- but his evening tea, to be served with dinner, was laced with arsenic- more than five times a sufficient lethal dose, enough to kill a large horse or small elephant.

Chief Minister Sun Liu, who was working busily in the Chancellery to marshal the Empire's armies and crush the rebellions that were now raging across the land, was not surprised that the khagan was dead. He would only be slightly concerned about the method of the Qingyin Emperor's death- it didn't matter, in truth. All the pieces were already in place.
Following the khagan's death, the nobles and highest officials in the capital were summoned to the Golden Orchid Court by Chief Minister Sun, the regent, who had called a meeting. The Viceroys of Baichuan and Hanguo were present, in addition to the most important lords, officials, and businessmen in Khanbaliq (and by extension the empire), and the ambassadors of every country that possessed a legation in the city were also summoned, though they were not allowed to take part and could only watch- alone, save for their fellow diplomats, and without translators.
In the vast main hall of the Grand Secretariat, several hundred of the most important people in the Mongol Empire were now assembled before Minister Sun, who was seated in the Chief Minister's seat. The Vice-Regent's chair sat empty beside and above him, but it was scarcely noticed by this assembly of notables that had gathered- more noticeable was the presence of Prince Sengerinchen, the formidable President of the Board of War, and General Niohuru Bayan, his younger but equally formidable deputy.
Everyone knew what was coming- there was really only one way this would play out, and while plenty of the people in the Hall of the Steel Hand were imperial clan members, few found themselves unhappy or conflicted over the impending change that was doubtless coming
From the balcony above, on the great hall's second story, the ambassadors of the West could only watch in uncomprehending concern or excitement as the meeting played out, alone save for their compatriots- no translators or even servants waited on them. Below, hundreds of the most powerful men and women in the Empire were taking up seats or standing positions on the great hall's main floor region, or around the perimeter of it. There were even groups of Khanbaliq merchants and other commoners gathering on the balcony, kept away from the ambassadors by guards in a strange white livery, equipped with nightsticks and pistols.
Sun Liu was standing now, at a sort of table or podium that had been set up just beneath the two seats, and his cleared his throat, silencing the tittering of the crowd.
"You are here, ladies and gentlemen, to witness and take part in one of the greatest changes of our times," the Chief Minister began, his deep voice resounding through the hall. "In the last days, weeks, and months, our empire has been shaken by shocking betrayals that have struck all of us to our very cores. Many of our once-loyal comrades and once-pure lords have, of late, raised other colors- corruption. Rebellion. Cruelty. Treachery. Scheming, greed, lust, every sort of wretched vice imaginable seem to have taken root amongst those who we once imagined to be incorruptible." Liu was a powerful orator, his eyes flashing, his voice raising with passion as he spoke. "Even our khagan, who has so recently passed to join his ancestors, has now been implicated in the fiendish plots of Prince Zaichun and Vice-Regent Zhao." He paused, looking grave, and looked around the room as shocked, horrified murmuring broke out. "It seems that the rot of age and decadence has spread all throughout the government of our great empire, and while many remain loyal and true to the cause of the Dragon Throne, there are other forces at work as well. The south now burns with the fires of revolt, as mobs are stirred up by foolish, disgruntled young students set even Nanchang ablaze and unleash the winds of chaos in one of the last bastions of order in the empire. Rebellions elsewhere, in Chagatai and Hanguo, and the Prince Zaichun and his accursed co-conspirators continue to exert their vile influence over Karakorum and Kua'amar. Disaster strikes at every corner, with flooding in Guangxi, sandstorms in Gansu, a hurricane in Fujian, blizzards in Tibet, and even devastating rebellions and ruinous natural disasters are not the limit of our tribulations. Foreign barbarian powers now circle Ikh Mongol Uls like vultures around a dying horse, certain that our demise is now imminent and soon they may feast off of the rich corpse we leave behind. In every field, internal and external, we face inevitable catastrophe.
"Lords and ladies, our government has failed, our khagan has failed, and, unless drastic changes are made to restore the Mandate of Heaven to this government, our very empire itself will fail. With the death of the Son of Heaven and his implication by Grand Secretariat files in the plots that have brought this nation to its knees, we cannot remain silent and we cannot simply continue on as we have for so long. That struggle, to preserve the monarchy and the old ways, is at an end, and now a new one, a struggle for the very survival of this empire, is beginning. We must now make decisions for the sake of the multitudes of Asia that go contrary to everything we have known and believed for our entire lives. If we fail to continue this new struggle, for unity, order, and civilization, then there will be no other force to save our people from the darkness of warlordism, chaos, and infighting. We must carry out our new fight to the best of our abilities, to preserve everything our empire stands for and has stood for for the last six centuries, and no matter what the cost of reuniting the broken dominion we now preside over, we must and will pay it. The first toll Victory will lay upon us is a harsh one, and an unnatural one that we now, because of the dire circumstances of the empire, find necessary. It is, quite simply, the end of the monarchy."
This time, Liu's pause was short, blasting through the numb shock of his audience and moving onwards.
"Our monarchy has, quite simply, failed us. If we are to move forward and seek to reestablish unity, then we must discard this defunct, poisonous relic of the past and embrace the path Heaven has laid out for us in the desires of the people. I do not mean to say we will execute our imperial clan or imprison them or wrongfully persecute them- we shall commit no such barbaric crimes against them, just as we shall remain civilized towards all peoples of all races who we live alongside. We will not fall into the pit of sectarian, racial hatred and violence that will breed more and more chaos, nor shall we traitorously attack in any way those nations with whom the empire has maintained relations, even troubled ones. But the loyal elements of the imperial government must, henceforth, be reformed to a republican model that will be better equipped to pursue the long and bloody conflicts that will doubtless ensue in our campaign to pacify the rebellious territories, and that will bring the people the greater freedom and liberation they desire.
"The loyal elements of the imperial government and military shall be restructured into a new North Asian Directorate, which will henceforth manage all affairs of state for the territories formerly controlled by the Mongol Empire. I wish to emphasis the Directorate's nature as an interim government- the newly-created Ministries of War and Public Security will be given final authority in all affairs of state until we have reunified the empire fully and restored order to Heaven's chosen lands, and the new General Assembly of elected officials shall be created so that the government can truly listen to the needs of its people. We must now lay the groundwork for a new state, one that can eventually establish peaceful, harmonious rule over all of our dying empire's territories and peoples for the greater good of all of us."
The Hall of the Steel Hand was now almost impossibly crowded, growing warm from the sheer amount of bodies in the room, as many commoners were being permitted into the Golden Orchid Court to listen to Sun Liu's passionate, inspiring, fiery, beseeching plea and ambitious proposal. Hundreds, if not more, crammed the balconies, and Khanbaliq's wealthiest nobles were now separated from riff-raff provincials fled from failed farms or the like by a few guards or by the soldiers in the unfamiliar livery of the Civil Guard.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I ask you for not just your purses, yours swords, and your minds, but your hearts. It will be your belief in the dream of a reunified Asia, and the new government, that will truly make the difference and bring us closer to our final victory. If we are to restore order and prosperity to our lands, it must be through the conviction of the people, even more than the strength of our arms, that lead us to triumph over the rebels and barbarians who now stand against us. Victory or defeat, unity or disunity, order or chaos, life or death- no longer will these decisions be left in the hands of a single man, to command changes to the lives of millions. They are now in our hands, and we must rise to the occasion, for the salvation of all Asia!"

Nanchang
Nanyu Viceroyalty

It would seem the whole empire was suddenly ablaze with republican fervor. Nanchang was still smoldering, while the Viceroy's palace continued to slowly burn, but the city seemed to have largely returned to normal, save for the red flags flying from every post and the red-uniformed soldiers and guards who now kept order in the city.
On the same day that Sun Liu made his famous speech, another man, thousands of miles away, by the name of Bataar Khadagin, the Premier of the Politburo of the Communist Party of East Asia made his own speech. The precise wording and records of what he said were lost, when, years later, the library the only copy was held in burned- but it was a tumultuous time, and there was little concern over the loss of Premier Khadagin's speech. Later historians did not need to understand his precise wording, and they could retrieve plenty of snippets from audience members, for Bataar spoke to a crowd of nearly a hundred thousand that day in Nanchang. He spoke of the corruption of the monarchy and the government, the evil of the foreign invaders who sought only to extract wealth from a dying empire, the crushing poverty and oppression of the people, and on their grand new opportunity that lay before them, to rise off and throw off the chains that had for so long bound the proletariat, to rise up against their overlords and crush them. He declared another new government to be formed that day- the Union of Revolutionary Socialist Republics, which spanned every city and town and province under control by Communist forces and claimed the entirety of the Mongol Empire's former territory.
The south of China, meanwhile, was in turmoil. There were a number of examples of peasants killing landowners and nobles, of mobs paralyzing entire cities- but there were also examples of landowning families joining the revolution to hold on to their power, or declaring for the Directorate instead and using their private forces to crush any revolutionaries in their midst.

The greatest empire the world had ever or would ever see, Ikh Mongol Uls, the eternal kingdom, the realm of Genghis, Kublai, and Jingim, the mightiest and proudest state in Asia, the empire that had humbled even the haughtiest emperors and shahs to the dust, that had waxed and waned across the Orient for half a millennium, and defined six centuries of history in East Asia, the most populous state on Earth, the Mongol Empire, had choked out its last, desperate gasp.
Its fall would soon drown Asia in a sea of blood and fire.

Reminder for me, since I keep forgetting what I'm doing here:
Sun Liu and Niohuru Bayan launch a military coup against the Vice-Regent and smash Zaichun's forces again as they come to try and seize the khagan. The khagan is imprisoned and a military regency declared, controlling Baichuan Viceroyalty and chunks of Manchuria and Mongolia thanks to Zaichun's two nasty defeats. Liu and Company also take over Kyushu.
Communist uprisings then occur in several cities, and a Union of Revolutionary Socialist Republics in declared, spanning Korea, Southern China, Yunnan, and parts of Tibet and Manchuria, and parts of Japan.
Faisal Sajadi chooses to remain loyal to the Vice-Regent, who escapes to western China, around Xi'an or Lanzhou or maybe further up the Gansu Corridor, with a sizable force and takes over that area, which had been in anarchy between Muslim Hui rebels, Communists, Minister Sun's troops, and Zaichun's supporters.
~~Asadai Batukhan marches on Kashgar and suffers a crushing defeat, but the city of Osh falls to the Kyrgyz rebellion, which is a major crisis.~~Then the Vice-Regent will probably get smashed by Liu and flee into exile or something (he might die nobly for the Empire he tried to save, idk), and Sajadi will submit to him as an officially independent vassal known as the "Union of Chagatid Republics," and Sajadi goes to negotiate with the Kyrgyz to give them their own "republic". ~~Mongol Empire officially breaks up as Zaichun has an assassin shoot his own father and Sun Liu declares the North Asian Directorate, controlling North China, Chagatai (sort of), and parts of Japan.~~ This is in contrast to the Communist URSR, which controls South China, Tibet, Korea, and parts of Japan, and both of them are opposed to Zaichun's little thingy up north, which he's officially still calling Ikh Mongol Uls but which most people start calling the Karakorum Remnant. The Communists and Liu's Regency meet in Wuhan for negotiations, and things end on a cliffhanger....

Music you're going to use:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjpR8u7IgE4 (I wish you love)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMYNfQlf1H8 (Do you hear the people sing)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZA36YIu2yU (I did it my way)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3Kvu6Kgp88 (non, je ne regrette rien)

Flags:
URSR- http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/c ... minoso.svg
North Asian Directorate- http://www.worldstatesmen.org/cn-mk22.gif
Chagatid Federation- http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/c ... Uyghur.png
Amur Horde (when the northern Manchurian lords rebel)- http://alternathistory.org.ua/files/%20 ... e_Flag.png

by **Baja California y Sonora** » Fri Jan 23, 2015 6:18 pm

Tsarizm Alyaski

The Eastward Way

Described as mild in climate, fertile and abundant, the poor man's dream, the royal decree of Tsar Ivan had stirred some interest in the poor of Alaskan cities. The idea of cheap, fertile land, being cleared from debt and receiving a small pension had created enough initiative for groups of Alaska's poor to claim land in the east. It had been a few days since the decree was put and already had twenty families decided to make the move- a good number considering Alaska's low population. Tagging along the future settlers of the Great Wilderness, were soldiers of the 4th platoon. Prior to being able to build a home, the citizens whom had made the move where required to help the 200 strong build a fort in order to strengthen Alaska's claim to the Great Wilderness. Led by Squadron leader Yukavich, the 120 civilians and the 200 soldiers left Peterosoki on July 12th and headed eastward into the great unknown. Of course however the land sold to the first twenty families was as fertile as the Siberian north, instead however the families where encouraged to move southward and purchase cattle or sheep rather than relay much on the land.

"Do we really need it?"

Three Saint's Palace
July 20th, 1881

The summer was coming to a close for the Alaskan nation and as the heat faded from the capital, it all seemed to congest in the Tsar's conference room. As the minutes passed the situation in the room continued to heat up, arguments where flying across the room as forty-six of the nation's most prominent politicians questioned Alaska's necessity to keep the furthermost territories- The Far West. The men, all of them having noble blood and influential in the court of Ivan, where invited only to provide a second opinion to the king as whether Alaska should keep the Russian land inherited by his Grand Father in the Russo-Alaskan Inheritance Act of 1855. The Tsar convinced of selling the land back to Russia for a formidable price, asked his Royal Adviser Arkady Meniovich, whom then convinced the Tsar to hold a meeting and inform the rest of the court of his plan.
The Tsar's questioning to keeping the Far West came around the time of Royal Decree's signature, Russia had shown interest in purchasing the Far west and this though lingered in the Tsar's mind. Looking at a map of Alaska and seeing economic reports from the two provinces that made the Alaskan Far west, he was convinced of its uselessness to the empire. Populated mostly by Siberian tribes, who clung onto independence and a white minority that thought itself as Russian rather than not Alaskan- a minority full of resent to the Alaskan crown. Apart from an unwelcoming populace, a climate as bitter as the population made the area as useless as unwelcoming. A drag to the empire, a few days following the release of the Royal Settlement decree, the Tsar convinced that Alaska would be better off without the Far West, asked a subject of his and instead he was met by a conference-one that could change the mind of the Tsar.

"I'll repeat to you one more time, Lord Dameichev, if the far west is as useful as you say it is, then why has continued to deplete our hardworking people's resources, rather than sustain itself?. The dammed westerners don't even consider themselves Alaskan! The majority of those folk are Siberian, ethnically inferior to us and even our native Alaskans." The large man whom was known as Lord Yakervsiky exclaimed to one of the supporters of keeping the far west. In retaliation the other man respond as bitterly as Yakervisky had replied to him. "You're idea is as preposterous as it is racist! Alaskan natives are more or less Siberian in all sorts and as for those Alaskans clinging onto their Russian nationalism- they are a minority within a minority- easy to erase of this world. The far west has been a territory of Alaska since we gained our independence from those deviants in Moscow. Without it our population would plummet to below the 100,000 mark. They are Alaskan and must reinterpreted! exlaimed Lord Dameichev. The two men had gathered the most attention, both being rivals since the earliest of days and the loudest their too, their debate would be the center argument for the conference. Lord Yakervsiky retaliated. "The far west has kept us lagging, all those resources and investments we have used to develop that solid block of ice, nothing in return. To hell with them I say, they provide nothing for us but troubles. And if it so much worries you of our population decrease, have Russia deport them back to Alaska so we can send them to land with an actual future."

The conference prolonged itself for three more days, different speakers came to debate, new points where given, and alas the question of "Do we really need it?" surfaced. It made Alaska look powerful, yet in a crippling state, independent in some areas and an economic blackhole. The first taste of democracy entered the Alaskan nation on July 23rd, 1881. A voting session took place in the conference, the question "Should Alaska keep the Far West?" became the final topic. With a count of 32 ayes, 12 nays and 2 abstainers, it was decided that the Far West would be sold to Russia.

- Post Conclusions -
- Alaskans begin settling the Yukon
- Alaska has it's first taste of democracy in the Tsar's conference
- Alaska decides to sell The Russian Far East back to Russia for a sum of 10.5 million USD

by **Alleniana** » Fri Jan 23, 2015 9:10 pm

Confederation of Italy

-reserved for flag, which I need to make sure with Neo is properly imitating Napoleon's version-

Turin, Piedmont, Confederation of Italy
15th of July, 1881

"Independence! Freedom! Liberty! Italy!"

Cries that would have echoed in quieter times now jostled about, joining others and creating a mass of indeterminate, but passionately vocal sound. Though the referendum had been granted and a vote would indeed soon be taking place, the protests had still been going on at the time, and only now, as the news spread and people began to cheer more than they shouted, did things wind down. Nationalism did not wind down easily, even with success, and still, crowds milling, bearing their signs and banners, went round and round, filling the centre of venerable Turin. Many were leaving, indeed, but still many more were still caught up in wild fervour, excited by their perceived victory and anticipating the rubber stamp referendum they knew they truly could not lose.

It was just an expression of excitement, of passion, of fierce sentiment and hope and everything a nationalists' heart would well up with for their nation, animating Turin's streets and people and piazzas and apartments, and sending a loud message to Europe at large that Italy was rising. Though they, pushed up against other fellow Piedmontese in the squares and roads, perhaps did not know it well, they were announcing a message to Europe as a whole, heralding the birth of Italy proper. The Italian spirit was freed, the genie let out of the bottle, and now not heaven nor hell could cram it back in. And damn it all, the world would know, for here it was, gallivanting and exploding in Turin. Red and white fluttered about Turin's lands, borne by proud Italians standing about their own mighty Italian city.

It would only be by that night, in fact, that finally calmed by the announcement of what they were campaigning for, most of the Piedmontese, or Italians as they would call themselves now, left for their homes in and around Turin. It was, too, during that night that similar but smaller groups in Genoa and other cities dispersed, having made their mark on history too. And, not only that, but the night saw the announcement of the date of the referendum too. Barely within a month; the nationalists were impatient, and few doubted that errors in the referendum could be great enough to change the anticipated landslide outcome. It was a very reasonable assumption.

Most were not even that patient, though. Already, "legions" had begun to be formed, imitating the old Roman organisation as well as that of the new Kingdom of Rome, a fellow nationalist state. Recruiters had begun moving into Francia, German-majority Switzerland and Bohemia, and even some daredevils into the Dual Kingdom where they thought they could. If Italians lived in pockets too small to properly join Italy, they reasoned, they could help by moving themselves or simply operating for Italy outside of it proper, and indeed, at least moderate success was expected with extracting people and funds out of areas like Francia, while much more blatant recruiting was to go on in Bohemia, which owned an area that not even Bohemia itself could deny was dominated by Italians. That is not to say that men were only recruited from areas where they could not go to the nearest recruitment office for Italy; within Piedmont itself, too, people marched the streets and called young men to join them, signing up for the Piedmontese branch of the Confederal Italian Army before it even existed. Not that it stopped them in any way, with recruitment officers who suddenly found themselves in an odd position either using their initiative or contacting their superiors, who by and large began to take them into regional, cantonal units which they refrained from referring to as Swiss even if they formally were. After all, they soon wouldn't be. Many, in fact, were speedily renamed into legionary names, one thing that could be done before the referendum took place.

All across Piedmont, as the Italian region of Switzerland referred to itself as, actions in anticipation of liberation and other general expressions of their sentiments were abundant, the hue and cry being raised everywhere and each cheer only servicing the Italian cause's enthusiasm even more. Legions flooded streets recently filled with protesters, eager to begin, and in fact, even government offices for for military nurses and joining the soon-to-be Italian bureaucracy saw overflowing. The governments themselves, in fact, began operating almost independently, preparing letters to other nations and declarations and other trappings of independent states, so clear was their conviction of the referendum's outcome. Indubitably, spirits were high, and Italy was rising. Perhaps only half in step with Rome, Piedmont had advanced triumphantly into its new, nationalist, but still republican and liberal Italian identity, and soon, so would the rest of Italy. Or, at least, so they hoped.

letter maybe

by **Finland SSR** » Sat Jan 24, 2015 12:44 am

-flag will wait-

Baltic Freedom Movement
Baltijos Laisvės Sąjūdis
Baltijas Briviba Kūstiba
(more languages will be added later)

Vilnius, Kingdom of Lithuania, Ruthenian Empire

"Let our children talk the language of their home!"

Around 600 protesters, waving various flags of the Baltic Freedom Movement and shouting various phrases, gathered in the Town Square, in front of the Vilnius Cathedral on this wet Sunday afternoon. It was the first protest organized by the organization in this decade, as the last happened in 1879 in Tallinn. However, the problem was the same. It is known to pretty much every person in Ruthenia that, while national languages are taught in schools and they can be used in daily life, the army does not follow this freedom. All recruits are forced to speak Polish, regardless of their nationality or birth language. This aggravated the Baltic communitis. It wasn't uncommon for a man to return from the army decades after he left his family, and having forgotten the language of his home! The Baltics were trying to resist polonization since their inclusion to Ruthenia, and Polish language forcement was against their interests.

Vytautas Andsbergis stepped out of the crowd and stood in front of the proterters. Hundreds of citizens also gathered in the Town Square to listen to his speech.

"My dear Lithuanian populace!" Vytautas spoke. "We are all aware of the conditions that are happening in the army of our nation right now. Recruits are forcefully taken from our villages to add to the army, and in there, facing death in wars almost all of the time, they are not even allowed to speak in the language of their birth. We, the Baltic Freedom Movement, disagree! If you are already taking away our sons and sending them to die thousands of kilometers away in burning steppes or freezing taigas, and you ban the only thing that still reminds them of their families, then what kind of fee nation is that. We shall march to the Sejm and present our demands!"

The people clapped and started slowly marching towards the Sejm, waving their flags and shouting various phrases, mostly directed towards the oppression against the culture of the Baltics and support of Vytautas's goal. However, the march was quite peaceful, and no aggression was noted.

It looked like the beginning of something...

by **Aldelxane** » Sat Jan 24, 2015 3:38 pm

July 29th, 1881

__________________________________________________________________________
July 30th, 1881
Venice, Bohemia

The tramp of boots echoed across the sweltering summer streets, as the men of the UPF* disembarked from their transports onto the quays of Venetian waterfront. The division had been dispatched to the province after worrying reports of recruitment by Italian nationalist cells, or as they had been painted with great success by the nation's news media, murderous "radical terrorists" bent on the destruction of the republic and a return to the slavery of aristocrats. A crowd had assembled in the streets to meet the arrival of the troops, and cheering drowned out the sound of the marching soldiers. Within the crowd, a young man, about twenty years of age, wove his way through the press of bodies. In his hand, he clutched a loaded pistol. Now, Major General Bernardino Accardo stepped off the deck of a transport, flanked on both sides by guards. In an instant, the young man burst from the crowd. Although his cry of "con l'Italia" was drowned out by the crowd, the gunshot pierced the humid air. A red stain began to spread across the leg of Accardo's uniform, but even as he collapsed, a private slammed the gunman to the floor, knocking the pistol from his hand. Shocked children clung to the arms of their mothers, as two burly sergeants cuffed the man and dragged him away. Some in the crowd jeered at the would-be assassin brought low, while others, stunned by the violence, stood wide-eyed and staring. A shaken aide de camp helped the Accardo to his feet, as a doctor was hurried onto the scene and the Venice police sent the crowd back to their homes.
__________________________________________________________________________

*UPF=Union Peacekeeping Force
__________________________________________________________________________

by **Vredlandia** » Sun Jan 25, 2015 11:41 am

The North German Confederation

Stadtschloss, Berlin

Friedrich Franz III. was a very interesting man, at least to the public. He went to a normal school in Saxony, became Grand Duke of Mecklenburg at a very young age, travelled around the Middle East, but was barely able to rule due to his many illnesses. Furthermore people rumoured that he rather enjoyed the company of men instead of women. Nonetheless his family held great influence in Berlin, because of being one of the oldest ruling dynasties in Germany and thanks to many weddings into eachothers houses. That was why the Grand Duke, despite having a regent for himself at home, was chosen to be advisor to King Wilhelm when it came to Egypt and the Middle East.

Normally they met at the Stadtschloss to discuss their policies, but this time Friedrich asked the King for an audience on his own behalf. During his trip to Alexandria some years ago he met a minor Prussian noble, a little older than him but very charming and, similar to Friedrich , a lover of fine arts. After some talks they found out that they even went to the same school. In the last few days of their trip to the Orient (that they decided to spend together), they forged a very strong bond between eachother. Afterwards it took quite some time until they met again, though, because both studied in different cities.

Just recently they met again. The Prussian, Philip of Eulenburg, now worked for the diplomatic corps and found out about a surprisingly large march in Vilnius. He sensed a huge opportunity, but needed the support of His Majesty to go there, so he asked the Grand Duke to support his cause. This chain of events now lead to the audience with King Wilhelm, who arrived a little late. The King looked old and seemed to grow weaker every day. The Crown Prince helped his father walk and sit down before greeting the two guests. "Your Royal Highness, Excellency. It is an utmost pleasure to welcome you. My father will now listen to your issues."

Following the Crown Prince, the Grand Duke explained the matter. According to him it would greatly help the North German Confederation and Prussia to support the Baltic Movement, or at least have someone talk to them. Not only could that weaken their unwelcome neighbour, but also increase the chances to get long lost territories back. Furthermore a loyal partner in that area would be a great tactical advantage. Of course not everything they said was quite true, but it was the success that counted. And they were successful. In the end King Wilhelm decided to send Eulenburg to Vilnius, to discuss with the leader of the movement.

Knowing that ethnic Germans didn't lose all of their influence in the Baltic, they sent a letter in German to Vytautas Andsbergis.

Bonn, Rhine Province

Christian looked through the ranks of this large hall. Never before he had spoken in front of that many students, or people in general. Just like Wartburgfest or the Hambacher Fest, this event could write history. Almost every Prussian Burschenschaft came to Bonn today, but there were others from non-Prussian territories as well. They all had one goal, though: A united German nation, stretching from Metz to Memel, from Schleswig to Switzerland and South Tyrol. At the beginning they were laughed at - how should all these territories unite? But nationalist tendencies all over the world made the critics silence.

As speaker of a Burschenschaft from Kiel, Christian was well aware of the dispute of ethnicities. Many members of his family died during the unification wars, but Germany never unified. However, it came closer to unifying than ever. Regarding his slim and weak appearance it was rather humorous that Christian had to speak for all of these students now, after all there were many more charismatic and strong future leaders among them, while he only wanted to become a judge, just like his father. His face was decorated by more or less small scars, a sign that he fought in traditional fencing duels often. Energetic he jumped onto a table and awaited until the guests silenced.

"My German brothers! For a long time we have fought for the unification of our mighty fatherland. For a long time all we did was changing minor things, I have heard friends say. But is it not our struggle for unity that awoke the sleeping Italian entity? They, too, have discovered that they can only live free and enjoy the liberty of our time if they decide to join a union with eachother. A cousin from Geneva told me that their movement has reached the most remote villages. Everywhere the people pick up their arms and join the Holy Crusade against the evil of fragmentation and foreign rule. It is a sign that, finally, we need to act as well. God knows that Germany will have to unify next.

Therefore we should not only concentrate on our work at home. The unification of Italy would be the best that could happen to us right now. I have spoken to our dear host and some other student leaders about this and we have come to the conclusion that it would be necessary to support the Italian unionists. We're collecting money to support them, so if you're able to give something, please contact your Burschenschaft leader. Other than that we need students from the other German states to advertise for our cause. If you volunteer to help them, we will assign you to an area. The German flag shall be raised, it is our time. Hail to our monarchy, hail to our fatherland!"

After he received storming applause from his fellow German brothers, Christian jumped off the table and raised his sable to cross it with the host, who was leader of a Burschenschaft from Bonn himself. Their table was less enthusiastic, mainly because most of them still had to organise something or yet had to speak to the large bulk of average students sitting all across the rest of the hall. First, however, a marching band would play the tune of the nationalistic song 'Deutschland hoch in Ehren'. Many of the students sang along. If one didn't know any better, one could assume that these boys would march into war the next day.

New Imperialism - AH RP v 2.1 [IC]

I'm not going to finish this

WIP

Who is online