(Open) IC 1870 REAL-WORLD RP

[Shimon-Zhivago]

If you want to join, check out our OOC: viewtopic.php?f=31&t=263558&p=16762753#p16762753

München, Hauptstadt des Königreich Bayerns,
1. Januar. 1870

As the clock struck midnight and December 31st, 1869 became January 1st, 1870, all the cathedrals in Munich began ringing their bells in joyous unison. Their melodious clang echoed throughout the city as brilliant fireworks exploded and lit up the starry night sky. Throughout the capital, people celebrated happily, singing songs of good tidings, enjoying fine Bavarian cuisine, and wishing each other good health and good luck for the coming year. To the carefree citizens of Munich, as well as in other cities and towns throughout the Kingdom, everything was right with the world.

Their king, Luwdig II, knew that it was not.

As he stared out the windows of his bedchamber at the Residenz, Ludwig could not help but be fearful of what was to come. All around, the world was changing, and it seemed that whatever changes would come were detrimental to the continued independence of the Kingdom of Bavaria. As things stood at the moment, Bavaria was in a unique position, as it held positive relationships with all of Europe's main powers: there were Royal ties with Great Britain, an alliance with Prussia, a historic bond with Austria and by default and honorary friendship with France. There could not possibly be a worse situation. All of these powers were inherently bickering, and if politics moved forward in the way that they were, Bavaria would have to pick sides in a bloody European war. No matter what side was taken, the kingdom doubtlessly would be swallowed up by one of the aforementioned powers.

King Ludwig II wanted Bavaria's independence to be preserved. But after the shoddy showing of the Kingdom's army in the Austro-Prussian War of 1866 (which represented not the quality of the troops, but of the idiotic generals! Ludwig mused to himself), Bavaria looked ripe for the taking. If a loss of independence could be avoided, Ludwig would do whatever was necessary. But all he could do now was wait to see how world events unfolded in the coming weeks.

Glancing out of the window at the fireworks dancing above the glorious city, Ludwig could not help but smile.

[Sibator]

London, The British Empire, The Reign of her Imperial Majesty Queen Victoria
The First of January, 1870

Thee Sun never sets on the British Empire, and that was never truer than now. Scholars had termed the era Pax Britannica, due to the disproportionate power of the Empire. The Royal Navy was the strongest of any power, and Britannia ruled the waves. The Crown Jewel of the Empire, India, granted enormous wealth and power to the British government, and the United Kingdom was establishing itself as the dominate colonial power. From Canada to Hong Kong, from Britannia to New Zealand, the Empire's power was exerted, and massive industrial growth propelled Britain yet further.

The North German Federation was a threat, but also a potential ally. In fact, the NGF could be a useful ally against France and Russia, the only major colonial competitors. In fact, France controlled the Suez Canal in Egypt, and unless a compromise was reached, it was likely this would prove to be a massive point of tension in the future.

The Russian Empire was powerful, but backward. It had massive manpower and resources, but no infrastructure to support, and backward technology. As long as Russia stayed out of Britain's Middle Eastern and Asian affairs, there would be no need for conflict.

Austria-Hungary was the power that wasn't. It had great prestige and diplomatic ties, but it was on the verge of splitting between the varieties of ethnicities. t was not a power to be discarded, but as Nationalism becomes a more powerful ideological forces, Austria-Hungary will be in serious trouble.

Italy was another emerging colonial power, and seemed unlikely to get into Continental conflicts. However, most of their actions were concerned with North Africa and other areas, and due to the recent unification of the Kingdom, they still needed time to develop. They could however, be a useful ally against France.

And finally, France. Sharing both a modern and historical animosity with Britain, France had been trying to match the British Empire tit-for-tat colonially. They constantly meddled in Continental Affairs, and the memories of the Napoleonic Wars were still there. France would truly prove to be the greatest rival, that is, unless another power replaces them.

[No Taxes]

Forbidden Palace, Beijing, Empire of the Great Qing
January, 1870

Zeng Guofan had achieved the pinnacle of success in Qing China officialdom, he had led Qing Armies to victory against the Taiping and other major rebellions being ennobled and made Marquess Yiyong for his efforts, and now he was Viceroy of Zhili, the most powerful provincial official of the most important province, yet for all this he was a deeply uneasy, troubled man. He was dressed resplendently for the occasion, wearing a ruby button along with a jade girdle clasp set with rubies, and having a white crane embroidered on the front and back of his official robe that marked him as an official of the first rank. A double-eyed peacock feather topped off his outfit, marking his noble status.

He was in the Inner Court of the Forbidden Palace, near the center of the sprawling compound that housed the Qing metropolitan government and imperial household. This would have been enough to make lesser men quake with anxiety in such an auspicious place and in the presence of such exalted persons, but this was not the reason for Zeng's uneasiness. He was an exalted scholar, having passed the highest level of exams and earned his Jinshi degree at quite a young age, which had led to him serving for some time in the nearby Hanlin Academy, the imperial court's most prestigious literary academy. Despite having had to serve in the field since then in several military and provincial appointments, he was still recognized as a preeminent scholar of the Confucian classics, outputting a significant volume of literary works that were widely admired. Indeed he was right at home in the presence of the Grand Council, an advisory committee that especially in light of the current regency which due to the Tongzhi's emperor's young age had taken on a quite outsize role in the policy making of the imperial government, reporting directly to the Empress Dowager Cixi herself.

Though Cixi held ultimate power within the imperial court, Zeng thought that the Grand Council had even come to take on a more primary role than her in day to day administration of the empire, only forwarding edicts and memorials on to her for approval when most of the major decisions had already been made. Thus while Zeng was technically of equal rank to most of the six members of the Grand Council, they held unquestionably more power at the imperial level at least. His audience before them today represented an important opportunity for him to have an influence directly on imperial policy-making.

Having let his mind wander during the formalities of his entrance and the introductions, he came back to the present after Prince Gong, a member of the imperial family and formerly Grand Councilor of the Council, now slightly reduced in power after displeasing Cixi several years before, but still an important person on the Council, asked him a question.
“What is your present estimate of the situation regarding the religion of the western barbarians in Zhili?”

Zeng paused before answering, not having expected such a direct question on exactly what had been troubling him so much recently, and taking care to word his answer carefully, replied, “Your Eminence, it is becoming a most delicate issue. As you know, I have long advocated for a more formal imperial position vis-a-vis the Catholic church. This current intermediate position of the church within our society has many disadvantageous effects and nearly no benefits. While Buddhism and Daoism on the one hand are accepted and officially regulated as religions with an important role in the ritual and spiritual life of this kingdom, and on the other pernicious, subversive cults such as the White Lotus sect are rightly persecuted and punished to the full extent of imperial might, Christianity occupies a spot somewhere in between. We have no say in appointing any of their officials or regulating their activities within this country, but we also don't do anything to prevent its spread or suppress its activities letting their missionaries roam freely throughout the countryside.

For this reason, Christianity is slowly upending the proper social order, appealing especially to those lowest segments of our society and angering many of the highest elements of the gentry and others throughout the provinces. Instead of becoming a part of the religious ritual to be sponsored and promoted throughout the land by the gentry and thereby trickling down by example to lower classes it is subverting this natural Confucian order and causing greater and greater outrage by its force. Christian orphanages take in young children, ostensibly a good, proper way to take care of those unfortunates in the same manner as do many Buddhist and Daoist institutions, but because this is done directly by Catholic nuns talking to foster families and often illicit child-brokers, instead of being sponsored and intermediated by the noble classes it arouses great suspicion and already rumors are circulating that these Catholics kidnap children and do evil things to them.

Without guidance from above, I fear that eventually the people of Zhili will take things into their own hands and attack these Catholics as members of a heterodox sect, regardless of what imperial edicts may say about the matter. We need somehow to put the local Catholic church under our authority, otherwise I fear the social order of Zhili and elsewhere will become greatly disturbed. I have long been in talks with French officials regarding this matter but imperial authority to pursue these negotiations across all treaty ports and with all foreign barbarians would greatly help this pursuit.

This great Qing dynasty has long had success incorporating many different religions and beliefs into our harmonious society, but always with regulation and guidance from above. The Taiping Rebellion serves as an example of the grave imbalances that occur when these things are left to run their own course.”

Zeng had been closely watching the councilors during his monologue to attempt their gauge their reactions, and he could tell his mention of the recently-ended, devastating rebellion had made a few of them uncomfortable, which was exactly what he had been hoping for. It also seemed as if there might have been an imperceptible nod of agreement on the part of Prince Gong. Zeng had talked with him privately about this situation many times and knew that Prince Gong agreed with him that more direct engagement with the French and others to reach an accommodation was necessary, but he was not so sure about the other councilors. In particular he had been watching Prince Chun, another member of the imperial family who was rumored to be very close to Cixi, but had been unable to gauge any sort of sentiment on his part.

What he had failed to mention to the assembled council was the trickiness of the question of control and regulation of the church. He knew that the westerners would never agree to give the imperial government even indirect control over the appointment of their local religious authorities, but if they could agree to some symbolic regulation of their authorities that might be enough to make it seem to the Qing imperial officials that they did in fact have control over the process. For this was the crucial issue: without at least the appearance of imperial guidance of the church, it would never get any kind of official sanction, would never gain the approval of any elements of the gentry and would therefore continue to antagonize society in many of its actions, not least the taking in of orphans.

Cai Mingsi, another of the councillors, spoke up next, thanking him for his thoughts and then asking a rather more mundane question about custom revenues in Tianjin. As he heard this, Zeng breathed a sigh of relief, for not getting rebuked for his outspoken comments meant that the council would take them into consideration later, after he had left. Perhaps this visit would actually effect some real changes in imperial policy, he let himself hope.

[Jamessonia]

Berlin, Hauptstadt des Norddeutschen Bundes,
1. Januar. 1870

Across Germany, and the world, people were full of joy and good tidings. From Berlin, the capital of Prussia and the Norddeutschen Bund, to Hannover, Leipzig, Cologne, Hamburg, and Frankfurt, the German people thrived under the Confederation. But not all Germans lived under this industrious union. The people of Bavaria and Baden, in the south, still lived under the rule of their backwards and petty kings. The lights of Munich were no rival to their Berlin counterparts.

But Northern Germany was not the only place celebrating the New Year. The powers of Europe, some more prosperous than others, all competed for the crown of the continent and the world. Perhaps the largest player in this game was the United Kingdom. The states of Germany have always had a very interesting relationship with the English. They have been both allies and enemies, but their fates have always been intertwined. Now the British Empire was the largest in the world, and it wouldn't do any good to make them angry. They also might be of assistance against the greatest enemy of Germany: France.

The French. The eternal enemies, the historical antagonists of the German people. They were the key to the rise of Germanic culture, according the Otto von Bismarck anyway. The only way to unify the German people was to provide them with a common enemy, and the obvious candidate was the French nation. Secret plans were in the making for a war with France, but nothing official has happened yet. They were weak on the southern border with Spain, and there had been talk of a royal marriage. Britain may be willing also. Only time will tell, but for now the North German Confederation was at a crossroads in happy times.

[Gibberan]

To: Whomever it may concern in the British Empire
From: President Ulyssess S. Grant, the United States of America

It has come to our attention that war is looming. We would graciously accept you as an ally, and help in any conflicts with the other hostile powers which surround us. While our nations have a dark and unfriendly past, we must stand together in these dark times, if both our nation are too survive.

[The Time Alliance]

República de Argentina

The capital city was not as busy as usual the President mused They must still be asleep a this fine New year. Shame i can't be sleeping but with my relations in Europe getting into so many arguments I must start early.

With the end of the Paraguay war in the horizon. It was obvious that Argentina and its allies Brazil and Uruguay would win. While the war strengthened Argentina and Brazil's alliance it was told by the that they would be breaking their alliance with Uruguay after the war. Argentina' s neighbor Chile has been increasing the size of its navy souring Chilean and Argentinian relations.

Many European nations are allies with Argentina. Including France, Denmark, Belgium, and Austria.
Relations with Spain and England however are very poor. After breaking from Spain. Spain has refused to speak to Argentina. England is the same.

Argentinas economy is not suffering from this however. Instead The economy has grown thanks to Argentina's role in the Paruguay war.The economy is better than ever before. However not all is well as a possible coup may soon threaten the entire country.

The president Domingo Faustino Sarmiento was not directly elected and thus didn't have a political party. He had been in office for over four years and was so far very very successful. As Brazil and Argentina's troops marched through Paruguay it looked like he would end the war.

Only time will tell what this new adventure well hold for Argentina.

[Waztaskio]

Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Imperial Japan in January,1,1870


His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of Japan Meiji the Great, stood in his chambers overlooking his Empire through a small box window in the west wing. He stares outside and stands as still as a hunter, stalking its prey. Eji, the emperor's personal servant then enters with a tray of herb tea, and notices his imperial majesty staring outside. He silently sets the tray on the table and slides his arms inside his sleeve, awaiting to be called on by his master. Emperor Meiji, turns away from the window and looks to Eji as though knowing he had entered the room, then takes a brief look at the tray of tea. Eji bows his head in the traditional way of honoring a leader and slowly opens his mouth to speak. "Emperor, I see you have risen early this morning, is something troubling you?". Emperor Meiji merely stands in the same spot he has been for the past hour, turning towards the window for one last peak. "Just look at what you see, and enjoy what you have."

Emperor Meiji was well known for being wise in his teachings but yet, Eji still had to ask further questions to get a understanding. "May I ask, what is on your mind, it is a new year and with a new year, comes new challenges and you can't face it without your morning tea you have not touched.". Emperor Meiji simply glares at Eji, then proves a faint smile "The Empire of Japan seeks to prosper, I will not be content with out home island we call safe, I will not be satisfied with my subjects thinking little is best, and I will not be bullied by any foreigners who seek to take the peace away from us".Eji responds "Your Majesty, will you be reforming the nation for future ambitions this year?". Emperor Meiji simply yawns, finally turning all the way around from his window and approaches the tea laid before him. "I can not become a true emperor, without a Empire. Japan is in the state of a Kingdom, and that is not worthy enough of my fine rule, we need to expand".Eji nods his head at the comment, taking hold of the teacup and tea pourer, pouring the emperor some herb tea and stops. Emperor Meji is then handed the cup, taking a sip of the tea and hands it back over to Eji. "It is time to wake up and breath in the air, we are the Empire of the Rising Sun and I will allow the sun to rise, first things first though, we must modernize our existing army and create a new command.". Eji then responds "Shall I call upon the Military Cabinet of General Yamagata?". The Emperor sends a nod to Eji, and Eji then picks up the tray, leaving the room. Emperor Meiji then takes his position by the window again, smiling at his comming empire.

[Bolovia]

National Palace, Madrid,Spain

The King looked out his window and welcomed the sight of the massive fireworks being shot. A new year had begun and the Spanish people eagerly awaited what it stored, the Spaniards were optimistic but traditional people. King Amadeo had the dream of Spain dominating the Iberian peninsula and consume the rest of the Caribbean. It had lost major wars but still was a power to reckon with, it had the desires to surpass the US and Britain in the naval race and hoped to maintain its colonies and even acquire new territories. King Amadeo had keen interest in China, seeing it as a potential ally in the Far East and strategic economic partner. He also viewed reports of Japan and wanted to invest in it as well. The King reviewed European affairs, he knew that French and German tensions were brewing and what Spains role would be. He thought to himself should war breakout between France and Germany, Spain could potentially eliminate a territorial power. He walked through the doors of his office, 2 palace guards greeted him, gave him a salute, and went about their day. He walked to the Parliament doors, again 2 guards gave him a salute, and opened the doors, massive bickering overwhelmed him. He walked to the podium with ease, gave the nod for everyone to sit down.
He began,

Gentlemen! A new age is falling upon us. with advancements in technology and new industries created, we can still reestablish Spanish prestige and authority. Massive reforms will begin soon and for the benefit of the Spanish people, reforms such as increasing our standing military force all around, healthcare to be more accessible, promotion of new industries to help create jobs and stimulate our economy, and endorse education, the next generation is our only hope of surviving as a sovereign nation, I want Spain's University system to be the envy of the world! These are big plans and patience is required but in the end we will prevail! Foreign affairs regarding Spain are prominent, our colonies in the Americas are at stake from the Imperialist Americans. Therefore, I ask you to increase our colonial force stationed in the region, speed up production of Ironclad's and frigates, and furthermore should war breakout we will be on the offense, I ask you to draft a plan to ready an attack force when the time comes. Mi Companeros, I will personally contact the nations of the world that our within our interest to form friendships, trade agreements, and overall alliances. Spain must seek support to ensure its prestige and influence. Viva Espana!

Massive applauses and cheers erupted from the parliament, King Amadeo was ready to make Spain a World Power once again.

Telegram from Foreign Office of Spain
To: Emperor of Japan
From: King of Spain
Haikei Most honorable Emperor,
The Spanish people welcome you to a new year and wish good luck for your nation. We have a keen interest in the culture of the Far East, specifically Japanese culture. We have read about many of your famous landmarks and rich cultural history. We intend to increase bilateral trades, and hopefully military, ties with your prosperous nation. Our people are not so different when it comes to history, we have both endured hardships like no other and prevailed even stronger after them. Spain views Japan as brother on the other side of the world, it would make our friendship more unique because a friendship such as ours is unprecedented. We invite you to Madrid to tour our beautiful nations capital, I welcome you to Spain. Spain hopes you will accept the invitation and eagerly awaits your arrival.
Sincerely,
Your friend King Amadeo of Spain

[Waztaskio]

Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Imperial Japan in January,1,1870


His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of Japan Meiji the Great, along with General Yagamata, now sit in his imperial chambers alone. General Yagamata is in his ceremonial uniform, obviously in a very good mood today as he awaits the words of Emperor Meiji. Emperor Meiji opens up the conversation, looking Yagamata directly in the eye "Good Morning General Yagamata, I am sorry to call you here on such short notice but, my plans and reforms need to be swift and time is not on my side.". General Yagamata bobs his head back and fourth, rubbing his chin as he listens to the emperor "I need to create a new military command structure, the Ministry of Military is a old way of doing things, I do not believe that it is suitable for the coming age of modernization, I thought of instituting a new system of this and call it the Army Ministry of Japan and putting you as the chief of it.". General Yagamata develops a smile on his face, shutting his eyes for 3 seconds and begins to speak "A new Ministry you say, just for the army?". Emperor Meiji nods a yes and Yagamata continues "Well, I assume I will have full control over the army and emperor, I will need to be given orders by you directly in advanced, to accurately conduct operations. Meiji responds with a smile as well "This will not only be the Army it will be the Navy as well, admiral Saigō Tsugumichi will become the Naval Ministry's command but, he was unavailable to make it to the meeting so, I will just send him his new post by letter.". General Yagamata began to stand up, bowing the traditional bow and leaves the room, Emperor Meiji then signals for Eji to begin the posting of Letters to the new Admiral and General to have a fully devised list of responsibilities.

[Shimon-Zhivago]

München, Hauptstadt des Königreich Bayerns,
2. Januar. 1870

King Ludwig II arrived at the Frauenkirche early in the morning of January 2nd with a contingent of servants and bodyguards. He was adorned in a simple Bavarian blue overcoat; no crown, no medals, no cape. Local citizens gasped as they saw him enter the magnificent church, amazed and humbled that their king had come to pray with them.

The church was almost empty, as it was not Sunday, but this was suited to Ludwig just fine. He enjoyed the peace and quiet that echoed throughout the massive cathedral; it allowed him to think, to be nearer to God. Sitting himself in the front pew, the king crossed himself and knelt down, head bent forward, and he sank into prayer. The royal posse around him did so as well.

A few minutes of pure silence passed. Then, Ludwig tilted his head up to the heavens, and softly whispered, "Gott sei dank."

The group around him was unsure of what had happened. But after that the king stood up, walked out to his carriage, and was sped back to the Residenz. The brief excursion to the Frauenkirche had cleared his mind, and he knew exactly what to do. At home, he addressed the following letter to the Grand Duchy of Baden, the Kingdom of Württemberg, and the other independent southern German kingdoms, ensuring that each copy would be delivered privately and secretly:

Meine süd-deutsche Freunden,

In these grave times with which we are now faced, we can choose either to move forward into the future or be lost forever to the catacombs of History. The world no longer functions as it once did: nations are no longer content with the land that God has allotted them. The great powers that surround us seek to run us over, destroy our culture and traditions, and absorb us into their imperial conglomerate masses. It is my belief that we, too, should seek to unite, if for nothing else to preserve our independence and the happiness of our people.

I humbly ask you to attend a meeting at the Maximilianeum in Munich on the day of the tenth of January, the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and seventy. There we shall address the nature our our relationship for the future, as well as courses of action to take in regards to modernizing our economies and forging visible alliances with the great powers.

We can be great and strong. We can be respected. We can be a force of peace. We can show to the world the beauty of our lands, cultures, and traditions.

I hope that you will find it in your hearts to come to Munich for this meeting. It may very well save our countries in the long run.

Regards, the humble servant of the people of Bavaria,
-Ludwig Otto Friedrich Wilhelm

[The Time Alliance]

República de Argentina

The diplomatic advisor sat looking at the letters which he wrote. There is one to send to almost every major country in south America. Time to send them out.

From:Argentina
To: Paraguay

We are offering you one chance. Surrender our we shall finish off your forces.

From: Argentina
To: Brazil

We are offering Parugauy one chance to surrender. If they accept we will withdraw from the war. If they don't we will finish them. I am glad we have this continuing alliance.

From: Argentina
To: Uruguay

Well help finish your war. After this though we will no longer be assisting you.

[Waztaskio]

Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Imperial Japan in January,2,1870


His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of Japan Meiji the Great, prepares to send out his letters on the reorganization of the Military, they are as follows:

Army Ministry of Japan
Commander of Army: Yamagata Aritomo (Answers directly to the Emperor)

Description of Ministry:In charge of both administration and operational command of the Imperial Japanese Army.

Duties of Ministry:Secure the army budget, weapons procurement, personnel, relations with the Diet of Japan and the Cabinet and broad matters of military policy, operations of the army, and the preparation of war plans.

Organization of Ministry:
Military Affairs Bureau
Personnel Bureau
Weapons Bureau
Army Service Bureau
Administration Bureau
Intendance (Accounts and Supply)
Medical
Judicial Bureau
Economic Mobilization Bureau
Aeronautical Department
Economic Mobilization

Navy Ministry of Japan
Commander of Navy:Saigō Tsugumichi(Answers directly to the Emperor)

Description of Ministry:In charge of both administration and operational command of the Imperial Japanese Navy.

Duties of Ministry:naval budget, ship construction, weapons procurement, personnel, relations with the Diet and the cabinet and broad matters of naval policy, operations of the fleet, and the preparation of war plans.

Organization of Ministry:
Internally Operating Divisions
Military Affairs Bureau
Mobilization Bureau
Technical Bureau
Personnel Bureau
Training Bureau
Medical Bureau
Shipyard Bureau
Naval Construction Bureau
Legal Bureau
Administrative/Accounting Bureau

Externally Operating Divisions
Navy Academy
Naval War College (Japan)
Naval Accounting School
Navy Medical School
Naval Engineering School
Canals and Waterways Division
Naval Technical Department
Naval Tribunal
Tokyo Naval Tribunal
Chemical Warfare Division
Radio and Radar Division
Supply and Transport Bureau
Naval Construction Division
Naval Maintenance & Repair Division
Special Attack Weapons Division
Emergency Reaction Division
Naval Intelligence Division

With all the new changes being set, the Emperor formally dissolved the old Ministry of Military to institute this and the emperor looked very pleased.

[Sibator]

London, The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
The Second of January, 1870

The British Prime Minster William Gladstone had several matters to deal with. The first included an alliance proposal from the United States. The United States had long believed in Isolationism when it came to European international politics, but after the end of the American Civil War, this seemed to change. Many American journalists were convincing the American populace of Spanish atrocities in Cuba and the Philippines. These atrocities were real, but the American desire for intervention was more clearly linked to the wish of establishing a Colonial system. Any alliance would likely mean war with Spain, and ay war between the British Empire would rive Spain into France's arms. Ultimately, it came down to whether or not Britain wanted a piece of the Spanish colonial cake. Gladstone contemplated for a long time, but finally decided that an ally in the West outweighed an enemy in Spain. He started writing the telegram in response.

To: President Ulysses S. Grant, President of the United States of America
From: William Ewart Gladstone, Prime Minster of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland

I am glad you would consider an alliance with the United Kingdom, and I believe the United States has always been a child of sorts to the British, and I can tell you the British people are proud. I believe an alliance between the United States of America and the United Kingdom would beneficial to both parties, and I graciously accept the offer. I understand you are still recovering from the American Civil War, and I promise to help you defend your assets in these vulnerable times.

Sincerely,
Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone

After dealing with the American alliance proposal, Gladstone decided to send a letter to the North German Confederation with the same idea. A British-American-North German Alliance would be very powerful, and would not interfere with Britain's colonial goals while still fulfilling the colonial goals of America and the Continental goals of the North German Confederation.

To: Prime Minister Otto Von Bismarck, of the North German Confederation
From: Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland

The United Kingdom and Germany have always had a mixed relationship, but I believe the ancestral ties with Hanover, as well the historical ties with Prussia, make the United Kingdom and the North German Confederation natural allies. We share a common belligerent: The Kingdom of France. They impede British colonial goals and well as German Continental goals, and I believe that we can solve both problems with open cooperation between our two sovereign nations.

Sincerely,
Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone

[Waztaskio]

Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Imperial Japan in January,2,1870


His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of Japan Meiji the Great, now looks to his domestic matters of his Empire. He calls upon Minster of Civil Affairs Ōkubo Toshimichi who is pressing for a new Interior Ministry. Minister Toshimichi then bows to the emperor, holding onto his samurai sword as he greets the Emperor. "Minister Toshimichi, I assume you are not pleased with your current arrangements in Civil Affairs?" opens the emperor. "The old feudal system established this Ministry and it has a very limited power on anything in this new, modern time of ours. We must dissolve the ministry and create a whole new system that is up to date on handling current issues.". Emperor Meiji gives a grin to the minister then suddenly, servant Eji walks into the room, and bows to the emperor.

"Emperor, I am sorry to interrupt your meeting but, these where just sent back to me from General Yagamata and Admiral Saigō Tsugumichi, they wish to thank you on their new appointments and hope to serve you well in your rule". Emperor Meiji, then dismisses Eji into the other room to wait for further instructions. He opens his mouth again and continues to acknowledge Minister Toshimichi". "I do believe in centralizing the government so I will grant you the new ministry, it shall be renamed the Home Ministry and you will be sent a letter on the new duties and power invested in it.". Minster Toshimichi smiles to the emperor, standing up from his chair and gives a traditional bow before he leaves the room. Emperor Meiji decides to revamp the Ministry and then focus on foreign matters, he calls Eji back inside and he begins to get a piece of paper and follow what the emperor says to him.

Home Ministry
Home Lord: Ōkubo Toshimichi (Answers directly to the Emperor and decisions can be overruled be emperor)

Description of Ministry:In charge of administration of all operations in the Empire.

Duties of Ministry: Internal security agency, police administration, family register, civil engineering, topographic surveys, censorship, promotion of agriculture, and postal services administration religious institutions.

[Waztaskio]

Emperor Meiji now sends his attention to Foreign matters and composes a letter to the Queen of England.

(Image)
Imperial Palace
Tokyo Japan
2nd January, 1870

Greetings from Emperor of Japan Meiji the Great. I write before you to express my compassion and friendlyness to some of the European nations. As you may know, our two names wield great power and responsibility to acclaim the title of Empire and for us to be chosen for that honor well, that surpasses my own. I would like to meet with you to discuss further ambitions of our Empire and develop a friendship in our two areas of the world. I can either come to London or you can come to Japan, either way it works. Please reply back when you can.

(Image)

[Sibator]

London, The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
The Second of January, 1870

Prime Minster William Gladstone received another telegram, but this one was from Japan, and directed towards Queen Victoria. After allowing the Queen to read it, they both talked about what to do. Japan was a good ally in the East, and could serve as a powerful counterpart to China if it got too strong. The Queen had also always wanted to visit foreign nations, since she did little actual work in the political sphere and was there mostly for ceremonial purposes. It was decided that she would visit Japan.

Dear Emperor Meiji the Great of Japan,

I am pleased to see that you have invited me your nation, and I most certainly look forward discussion on an alliance. I shall bring diplomats with me for official purposes, but I have always wanted to tour your country and I have a fascination with foreign cultures. After all large Empires tend to have many foreign cultures under them, so it is good to find them interesting.

I shall make preparations to arrive in Japan.

Sincerely,
Her Majesty Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland

[Tribea]

Prime Minister Giovanni Lanza looked over the balcony and sighed. The capital city of Rome at night was beautiful, the fireworms rocketing into the air, the explosions of colors so magnificent...
Sadly, he had other things to do. With a deep sigh, he turned back into his small office. The measly 9x9 box had black walls, a small wooden desk at the back, and a small rifled musket by his chair. Coughing, he sat down into his chair and grabbed a pen,

To: Grand Vizier Mehmed Emin Aali Pasha
From: Prime Minister Giovanni Lanza
I See That You Dont Have Many Alies STOP
I Propose An Alliance STOP
To Strengthen Our Two Mighty Nations STOP
And To Promote Trade Among Our People STOP

He called for his messenger, Carlos DaHunea, a medium- sized, poor man in a black tunic and rag pants, to deliver this to the telegram office immediately. He then turned to his other work.

[The Time Alliance]

República de Argentina

To:The Eastern Nation of Japan

From: Argentina

We see you are reorganizing your country. The nation of Argentina believes that these reorganization to your government is very worthwhile. We would like to hold each other's countries up in an alliance of arms and economies. We understand that Japan is not on the global stage yet. We hope an alliance will put both of us at the world stage.

[Jamessonia]

To: Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
From: Prime Minister Otto Von Bismarck of the North German Confederation

Greetings, my good sir. I am glad you have contacted me, and after conferring with King Wilhelm I couldn't agree more with you. The French pose a threat to both of our interests, and what more natural way to deal with this threat than to work together? By allying, we can defuse the French threat to your colonial efforts and to our Continental efforts. It is in this hope that we gladly accept your request for alliance.

Sincerely,
Prime Minister Otto Von Bismarck

[Waztaskio]

Emperor Meiji was meditating in his imperial palace, he is becomming calm with nature and in haromony with it, as old Japanese tradition. Eji then enters the room, giving his bow to the emperor and begins to speak. "Emperor, we have just recieved a response from Queen Victoria of England, as well as another response from a country called Argentina, the queen wishes to visit Japan and explore our culture and traditions, I recommend sending a reply to get a exact date of her arrival".Emperor Meiji keeps his eyes closed, staying perfectly still in his meditation and speaks "Yes Eji, please send that response to the Queen. What is the message from this Argentina relay, have we become popular already?". Eji gives a faint smile, crossing his arms up his sleeve "I'm not sure, they wanted to forge diplomatic relations and become possibly allies, it may be worthwhile to organize a journey down there to see how much value a alliance would actually hold.".

Emperor Meiji then opens both of his eyes but, still dosen't turn around. "I cannot leave the homeland so quickly on these endevours, I must send a emissary to do my bidding on that run. Dispatch Home Lord Ōkubo Toshimichi to act in my place, his new position also gives him the right to be a emissary for me". Eji sends his bow to the emperor and leaves to send word to Home Lord Okubo to Depart to Argentina."

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Imperial Palace
Tokyo Japan
2nd January, 1870
Addressed to Foreign Ministry of Argentina.

Greetings from Emperor of Japan Meiji the Great. I write to you today, to reply to your generous offer of becomming friends. We do wish to spread good relations with others so, we have dispatched a Emissary to you. He should arrive no latter then January 8, 1870 on the Imperial Ship Yagata.

(Image)

(Image)
Imperial Palace
Tokyo Japan
2nd January, 1870
Addressed to Foreign Ministry of England.

Greetings from Emperor of Japan Meiji the Great. I write to you today, to reply to your generous offer of traveling to our fine country. We do wish to spread good relations with others so, we will accept this great honor and will make preparations for your arrival. If you can, please send over a date so we can coordinate a bit better. Thank you and the Emperor sends his regards.

(Image)

[Bolovia]

King Amadeo's Cabinet rushed in through the dining hall doors,

" My lord, they passed the military reforms. The all-night session actually put through something productive." The Head of State said pantingly.

King Amadeo finished chewing,
" Good, now our foes won't dare touching Spanish possessions. Review the reforms for me."

" We'll my lord, the reforms are concentrated on new offense tactics, increased active forces and station more troops for the colonial force, they are drafting an attack force named " The retaliatory reserve". Increased production of Iornclads and steam frigates, and contemplation of begininng an arms manufacturing program. Ill have the Minister of War and Minister of Econmics run numbers for you tomorrow morning, my lord."

" Excellent, send that telegram to Japan and prepare a telegram for Germany. Spain could use more allies. Thank you, you are dismissed."

The Cabinet left talking amongst themselves, servants kept placing new dishes on the table. King Amadeo feared the US might intervene in Cuba, he wanted to assemble his Chief of the Armed Forces and the High Command as soon as possible. King Amadeo also wanted to talk with his Ministr of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Domestic Industry about the possibility of modeling a machine gun.

Telegram from Foreign Office of Spain
To: Emperor of Japan
From: King of Spain
Haikei Most honorable Emperor,
The Spanish people welcome you to a new year and wish good luck for your nation. We have a keen interest in the culture of the Far East, specifically Japanese culture. We have read about many of your famous landmarks and rich cultural history. We intend to increase bilateral trades, and hopefully military, ties with your prosperous nation. Our people are not so different when it comes to history, we have both endured hardships like no other and prevailed even stronger after them. Spain views Japan as brother on the other side of the world, it would make our friendship more unique because a friendship such as ours is unprecedented. We invite you to Madrid to tour our beautiful nations capital, I welcome you to Spain. Spain hopes you will accept the invitation and eagerly awaits your arrival.
Sincerely,
Your friend King Amadeo of Spain

[The Time Alliance]

República de Argentina

To:Japan
From:Argentina

We thank you for considering this grand alliance and hope to see your ambassador very soon.

Mean while in Paraguay Army Corp IXX
"Sir our army has approached the bridge. We have fortified the area across the bridge. We must hold this land until back-up arrives. One back-up comes we can take the capital. " Lt. Esteban West said to his General Ricardo.
Gen. Ricardo smiled an almost toothless grin. "Great"

The president of Argentina looked out over the capital. As soon as his soldiers advanced on the capital of Paraguay he would give a grand and glorious speech to all his citizens.

[Waztaskio]

Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Imperial Japan in January,2,1870


With the letters sent of, Emperor Meiji decided with the domestic and foreign problems handled, it is time to tell the people what to expect. He ordered that Imperial Police and Army Officials block off all major roads to the ports of Tokyo and set up a perimeter around the Harbor until the emperor arrives. Within 2 hours, imperial police arrive and begin to set the perimeter around the harbor.

A crowd begins to form to see why the harbor is blocked off and soon, the emperor arrives in his carriage, walking down a pathway laid out for him by his Military.


He steps to the very back of the harbor, and clears his throat before looking towards his people who are happy to see their Emperor out and about. He steps behind the barricades and begins to make his speech as the crowd quiets down.

Citizens of the Empire of Japan, I am Emperor of Japan Meiji the Great, your beloved ruler of this fine Empire. I come before you today, not to announce a shutdown but, to announce progress of the Empire. Japan is going to become a true empire in the face of the world, our armies will be strong, our navy untouched and unriviled in the Pacific Ocean. We are to become a beacon of hope, for our people and to the world. We will show what a little change and money, can do to make a nation prosper after Civil War. Today Japan, on January 2nd, 1870, THE EMPIRE IS ENTERING THE NEW REFORMATION! I declare the gates of Japan to be OPEN!"

The crowd begins to cheer and applaude the emperors speech, as he makes his way back carriage, making his way back to the Imperial Palace to continue his work.

[Waztaskio]

Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Imperial Japan in January,2,1870


Emperor Meiji was in his night clothes when servant Eji walked in, he obviously had heard some news and whatever the news was Emperor Meiji was about to hear it. "Your Majesty, King Amadeo of Spain wishes to invite you to his country, possibly to negotiate another alliance.".Emperor Meiji gave a small sigh and turned to Eji "Eji, I am tired for the moment so for the rest of the night, please do not bother me with foreign matters and second, I am already tied up with the Queen of England's visit and the reforms of my own country. Please tell the King we are sorry but, we are to busy to conduct business unless he sends a ambassador here on his behalf.". Eji then nodded to the emperor and gave a small but, unnoticeable frown and gave his traditional bow before heading off to send the Telegram.

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Imperial Palace
Tokyo Japan
2nd January, 1870
Addressed to Foreign Ministry of Spain.

Greetings from Emperor of Japan Meiji the Great. I write to you today, to reply to your offer of me taking a trip to spain. We do wish to spread good relations however, at this moment we cannot be tangled in spanish matters at the time. We are still conducting business at home and are emissary was already dispatched to another country for now, I send my apologizes to you and hope you will understand.

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[The Time Alliance]

República de Argentina

The small assembly met in a well lit mansion. As per Que dinner was being served. The dinner was a traditional Argentina meal. The general assembly knew exactly what they were debating and the debate ended in under 2 hours. They were meeting on the proposed 'Iron Wave Act' which increased the navy and ports of Argentina

IRON WAVES ACT

1. All military fleets will be put under jurisdiction of the army.
2. 10 ports must be built along the coast.
3. The ports must be equally spaced and offer easy access.
4. The construction of military vessels at these posts.
5. Fishing boats and commercial craft may be considered federal property if needed.

The proposal looked good. The assembly was adjourned and assigned a new date to vote on the bill. The 7th of January.