A War to End All Wars(IC)

by **Moguchiy** » Sun Sep 14, 2014 9:09 am

On 28 June 1914, Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand visited the Bosnian capital, Sarajevo. A group of six assassins from the nationalist group Mlada Bosna, supplied by the Black Hand, had gathered on the street where the Archduke's motorcade would pass. Čabrinović threw a grenade at the car, but missed. It injured some people nearby, and Franz Ferdinand's convoy could carry on. The other assassins failed to act as the cars drove past them quickly. An hour later, when Franz Ferdinand was returning from a visit at the hospital, the convoy took a wrong turn onto a street where Princip stood. With a pistol, Princip shot and killed Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie.

Juny 29th, 1914 is the starting date of this roleplay.

OOC: viewtopic.php?f=31&t=312101&start=325

by **Paketo** » Sun Sep 14, 2014 12:58 pm

June 29th, 1914
Athens, Greece

There was a grim atmosphere within the residence of king Constantine I of Greece. It had been over a year since the assassination of his father but it still affected the king and his family. the mood had become even darker when a messenger arrived for the king bearing ill tidings. The messenger came into the room and kneeled before Constantine. He then spoke when Constantine motioned for him to do so "my king, news has come from the Austro Hungarians, their prince has been assassinated" The King's eyes widened at this news but he remained silent as the messenger continued "the reports we have suggest it was a serbian but nothing more. This event could lead to war between Austria hungary and Serbia who we are allied with. If Austria Hungary decides to act on this event and declare war on Serbia, we will have to choose whether to honor our alliance or break it". The king began to speak as he saw the messenger was finished "this is troubling news but i feel as though we must honor our alliance if it comes to war. The serbians have made no claim as to having responsibility correct?". "no, my king" the messenger quickly responded. "if they do not claim responsibility for this attack i will trust their word and honor our alliance if it comes to war but now we must wait to see how this goes. Please dispatch someone to Serbia to keep us informed of current events there" ordered Constantine which the messenger quickly nodded to and left.

Constantine retired for the rest of the day after hearing the news and spent it with his Wife and children knowing that war was most likely coming and many of his people would be dead by the end. The Balkans wars had only happened two years before making Greece have a hardened fighting force but she was small compared to Austria Hungary and may not last if war was to pass.

by **Saarth** » Sun Sep 14, 2014 2:39 pm

The Dutch Council of Ministers, as well as Queen Wilhelmina, were assembled to hear the news.
"Franz-Ferdinand has been assassinated. Reports are still coming in and even the Austrians don't know much, but it appears to have been a Serbian terrorist or freedom fighter. The Serbian government has not released an official response, so we don't know if this was connected to the government or done separately. What we do know is hat the Austrians are angry, and war is possible. Considering the various alliances, this could erupt to a bigger conflict."
Pieter Linden thought for a moment and let his various ministers speak. After minutes of debate Queen Wilhelmina raised her hand. At once all discussion stopped. Queen Wilhelmina walked over to Pieter Linden. "I would like to speak to you for a minute away from them." You said simply.
"Of course, your highness. This way." He led her to a smaller room before asking, "What do you think we should do?" She looked at him with a troubled expression on her face. "Prepare for possible war. Make sure this doesn't spread to us. Pray god lets this end quickly."
"Understandable. But what if violence erupts? Should we help any side?"
"Certainly not. We are small and this war is large, I don't wish for destruction. But we must be prepared." With that she led him back to the room with the ministers, who stopped talking upon their arrival.
"We have made our decision. The army and navy will be put on standby, but not completely mobilized. Contact the colonies and make sure they are capable of operating smoothly in case we are cut off. And have border security increased, in case the Belgium's get a similar idea."
With that, the orders begun carrying out, and them eating began discussing other things. Why waste all day talking about a Hapsburg Duke's death? After all, how bad could any potential war get? The world would move on, with only a little footnote in history marking 1914 as special.

by **Das Kaiserreich der Cruor** » Sun Sep 14, 2014 3:36 pm

Buckingham Palace, London

Within his residence, King George V was in his own room, preparing for his slumber, as it was late in Britain. A personal servant to the king had come into the room, to be the bearer of bad news.

"His Majesty, I bring news of the Balkans. The Austrian Archduke has been assassinated by a Serb, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire is outraged."

George's face paled. "This is grave news... The fate of Serbia may be sealed then, annexation. However, if I have an intervention in Serbia, then the Germans could potentially be very upset. Bring this news to the Prime Minister in the morning, runner, and have Parliament come with a resolution to propose to me. I will sleep for now. You are dismissed."

The runner left the room and in the morning, he had informed the Prime Minister of the kings wishes. Parliament held a session, however it was divided as to what course of action should be taken. It would take longer to decide.

Near the coast of Egypt

Meanwhile, in the Mediterranean, a British convoy was preparing to try to enter the Suez Canal, so soldiers in the British Indian colony may be supplied. The convoy consisted of eight trading ships and three battleships. They were prepared for any confrontation with the French.

by **Soviet Chernarus** » Sun Sep 14, 2014 4:16 pm

The assassination of the Archduke has gained great publicity in the Ottoman Empire; seeing a possible opportunity to regain many lost lands, especially in the Balkans and in Africa and to recreate oncemore a formidable Empire that used to rule the Mediterranean for centuries, the Ottoman government, including Enver Pasha, has begun mobilization of the military to possibly fight in a war. Enver Pasha has also requested an audience with the Kaiser, if possible, to discuss, secretly, an alliance.

Realizing the Ottoman navy would be in no condition to fight a war, the Ottoman government has begun a massive campaign in order to drastically improve the navy, as to be able to stand up the British navy - however, this campaign is expected to take years before any significant progress occurs. The Ottoman Empire has also begun diverting funding towards the use of aircraft for reconnaissance purposes.

by **Greater Kashmir** » Sun Sep 14, 2014 4:24 pm

LISBON, CAPITAL OF THE PORTUGUESE COLONIAL EMPIRE:
King Dom Pedro the 11th walked through the Portuguese Royal Palace. His military advisors had assembled to discuss the crisis going on in The Balkans. The King, the colonial governors of Angola, Mozambique, Portuguese Guinea, and Portuguese Timor where there, along with the Commanders for the colonial armies and fleets. The Governor from Angola spoke first. ¨Is it true, my King? Is Archduke Ferdinand dead?¨ The King hung his head. ¨Yes, it's true.¨ At this, the room erupted with people talking. ¨Silence!¨ The King shouted. ¨We need to decide what Portugal's position is. Russia will most likely support Serbia, and that will drag in Germany, France, Greece, and who knows else. Should we support The Triple Entente, The Central Powers, or stay neutral?¨
The governor from Mozambique spoke, saying: ¨I believe Portugal should stay neutral. We cannot afford to get caught up in this war.¨ The governor of Portuguese Guinea stood up, saying, ¨I agree with the governor from Mozambique. It would be of Portugal's best interest to stay out of this soon-to-be war. ¨ The governor from Portuguese Timor also agreed, as did the Army Commanders. Then the King spoke again. ¨Well, that about wraps it up. Portugal shall be neutral. I will send a letter to other neutral nations, such as Holland, about a military defensive alliance that will protect country's neutrality and sovereignty in the coming storm.¨ The Colonial Governors and The Colonial Army Commanders left for there specific colonies, and all was silent again. The King told an aide to send a telegram to the Portuguese Colonies, ordering The Portuguese Army and Navy to mobilize.

To: The Queen of Holland/The Netherlands
From: King Pedro of Portugal
Most Honorable Leader, we seek to establish an alliance with another neutral nation. This alliance would mainly focus on protecting our neutrality in this coming storm. Of course, we would accept other neutral nations into it. For now, such an alliance would be called The Portuguese-Dutch Alliance. We hope you will accept our offer. One more thing, we have mobilized our navy and army, so there will be troop/ship movement around Portuguese Timor. We mean no harm, we are just preparing for the worst.

by **Karthalia** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 3:19 am

June 29th, 1914

The Streets of Tokyo City.

The Newly Crowed Emperor Hirohito was cruising around the City of Tokyo inspecting the Law Enforcement teams scattered Across the City. then Suddenly, the convoy stopped at a Kiosk

'' Stop. '' the emperor said,

The Emperor then got out of his car, walked across the street and read a Tabloid Magazine.

'' Hmm... Tensions in Europe?'' the Emperor Read from the Tabloid

Suddenly he rushed to his Car and ordered his men to drive him to the Imperial Palace. As he entered the Room and sat down, took a paper and pen and started writing.Two of his top Generals approached him; ''We need to discuss the matters in Europe''

'' Call me back when the world's about to end''

Then suddenly his Generals interrupted him; ''It is about to end, the World is at turmoil, The Europeans are doing what their doing again but this time.... we do not know how it might affect us''

Then he responded ''Leave.. now Leave...''

He thought to himself about what side he will join if the war does starts

'' Entente...''

by **Alleniana** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 4:26 am

Streets, Belgrade, Serbia
June 29th 1914

The sounds of marching should have been greeted with cheering and applause, praise for the young men who kept the nation safe and protected their people so selflessly, but they were not. Instead, they were greeted by silence; the silence of people fled from their homes, old men drafted into the army marching past homes they might never return to, of people terrified to look outside; instead, having just built barricades within their houses and stocked up, hoping that shells would not hit them in particular when they started firing.

By tomorrow, even the sounds of regimented boots on roads would be gone. The mobilisation was to be completed by the 30th; if there were sounds, they would be of panicked mobs, of screaming bombs, of soldiers running to the front from which they might never emerge. Belgrade was close enough to Austro-Hungary that one could see it, sometimes. It would not emerge even close to unscathed.

Riding in an army vehicle, one of the few serviceable, maintained ones, Živojin Mišić followed the troops, slowly overtaking them unit by unit on his way to the north. Though some had argued that he should stay back, to organise the whole war plan, he knew what would happen. Putnik, in Budapest, would be detained; people would scramble for a new military leader. If he was back in the palace, then there would be no doubt scuffles over it. He did not particularly want it, but no doubt, he'd had supporters as well as opponents. A kerfuffle would break out over Putnik's successor, all the while wondering if he could be retrieved, and meanwhile, the front would be neglected during the most important stage; the opening salvoes that would define the whole war.

So, he had shaken them off, and elected to ride with the army guarding the country's northern plains; prime territory for the Austro-Hungarians to sweep in before anything could be done. True, he would remain behind in the train, but he would be relatively front-line compared to Belgrade; or, so he hoped. If Belgrade became front-line, he might as well resign anyway.

Thus, he drove past the troops; some still active and spry enough to straighten their backs and march at attention, but most old men or boys, unfit or unhealthy or simply useless in the field. These ones had rifles, at least, but still, they were dressed in civilian clothing. He wondered how he could possibly hold off the weight of Austro-Hungary; he had lived his days serving his country and his king, but what was there to be done here? Russia was slow, France not likely to win. Would Serbia fall, just like that? So alone, and helpless? It would be no surprise. His troops were the modern equivalent of feudal levies. It was terrible, but all he had to make do with to ensure the security of all Serbians. A nationalist spark ignited for a second, just enough to give him the warmth of hope. He would fight on. He owed it to these poor men, at least.

by **Max Worshippers** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 1:30 pm

June, 29th, 1914 Berlin, Germany
The court of Kaiser Wilhelm the II was buzzing with activity. Wilhelm was a man of luxury, but he valued pragmatism. The Stadtschloss was very industrialized, and this was proven when a telegram came through, an written in German and bearing the mark of Austria-Hungary. It informed the Kaiser of the Archdukes death at the hands of a Serb terrorist, and the court went dark. Wilhelm's eyes looked like sunken pits as he mourned the death of his friend. He quickly sent couriers to deliver the news to his family, and the rest of the nation. But in an instant, the Kaiser jumped up and called his advisors to the table. His political science major had analyzed the situation and reported. "Kaiser, Austria-Hungary shall declare war on Serbia. It is almost inevitable. With that Russia will respond as the Slavic Sword, and France would honor the double alliance. It would be us and Austria Versus them. This situation is highly probable if we support The Emperor in war." Ludendorff chimed in "But Wilhelm, our army is unmatched. We could easily defeat France and Russia, the Schlieffen plan is already well thought out. No matter what Balkan allies they may muster, we could easily win. Not to mention Italy, Romania, Bulgaria, and the Ottomans. War is favorable." The Kaiser pondered this scenario, he trusted Ludendorff, and he wanted to avenge his friend. "Send a message to Franz I reaffirming our alliance, and urge them to declare war with Serbia, We will not stand for this." And with that, a message was out. The world was drawing closer and closer to War.

Official Communication of the German Empire

To: Emperor Franz of House Habsburg
Dearest Friend,
I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of your grandson. He was a great man, and he deserves a hero's funeral. I am going to postpone my Baltic Cruise, so that I may provide support for Austria in this conflict. Please send a message back quickly informing me where Franz II's Funeral will be, I need to pay my respects, and properly mourn. However, we as heads of states, must address the political consequences of this assassination. There is no doubt in my mind that this was the Work of a Serb, possibly even supported by the Kingdom. I would like to reaffirm our support for you in our alliance, and implore you to take any steps necessary to exact revenge for your fallen Archduke.
Sincerely, Kaiser Wilhelm of House Hohenzollern

And the telegram lines buzzed, as this message was carried south, and the German Generals stood ready, for the war destined to come.

by **Soviet Chernarus** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 1:41 pm

The Ottoman Empire, in the scenario where it found itself going to war, has begun drawing up military plans for possible offensives into the British-controlled Suez Canal, the Caucasus, and Persia, which has long since been dominated by Russian and British spheres of influence. The Ottoman Empire is also planning to begin compulsory conscription in order to drastically increase their military size in anticipation of a war.

The Ottoman government has not yet publicly announced intentions to align itself with the Central powers; however, with tensions so high and war being so inevitable, an Ottoman official has said (in private conversation) to Enver Pasha "War is unavoidable. I believe that it is within our country's best interests, that we must align itself with the Central Powers if we are to gain back our lands in the Middle East, the Balkans, and Africa. Germany and Austria-Hungary both have formidable armies - only through war can we achieve our goals in restoring our former empire."

Enver Pasha has again requested an audience with the Kaiser in regards to the inevitable war and Ottoman intentions and goals.

by **Max Worshippers** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 1:59 pm

June 29th, Berlin
A couple of minutes later, a telegram comes into Berlin. A messenger runs through the now bustling palace to the Kaiser in his war room. "Kaiser, a telegram has just come from the Ottoman Empire. The Enver Pasha seeks to meet with you, and discuss the state of affairs in the Balkans." The Kaiser held out his hand and read the message. "This is very diplomatic of them. Grant this man a diplomatic passport, arrange for his transfer on the Orient Express, and have a convoy pick him up at the station. Commandeer the train for an immediate trip. This could be the start of a brilliant friendship between our nations."

by **Soviet Chernarus** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 2:26 pm

It was only a few hours after Pasha had received the German response when he boarded the train. In his country's best interests, he would be confirming Ottoman support for the Central Powers as well as outlining military plans in the region.
--
Gearing up for war, the Ottoman military has announced compulsory conscription for all fit men between the ages of 20 to 35; they are required to serve 2 years as infantry, 3 years in other branches of the army, and 5 years in the navy. Since the Ottomans have begun increased funding for military aviation programs throughout the empire, they have begun extensively enlisting officers to train in aerial and naval aviation schools.
The Ottoman Empire has also begun purchasing large quantities of German weapons and artillery in exchange for oil; the Berlin-to-Baghdad railroad is continued to be worked on but is still far from completion.

by **Saarth** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 2:48 pm

Ooc: please look only if your Portugal.

by **Das Kaiserreich der Cruor** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 3:07 pm

June 30th, 1914

While meeting with members of the British Parliament, Herbert Henry Asquith, British Prime Minister, had risen from his seat. "Silence, please, silence!" Soon, the room silenced.

"We are all obviously divided as to what course of action we should take. To support the Germans and Austro-Hungarians, which should victory be achieved, our colonial empire would be bolstered in land. However, a war against the French may be very costly, as history has shown. I would propose that until we may finally draw a conclusion on who we join, we openly declare neutrality. I also propose we make plans with the Belgians, so they may follow and help us. Should any nations soldiers step foot in Belgium without permission from the Belgian government, we will declare war. Does that sound reasonable?"

Many would give an aye, however one member rose to add to the debate. "While neutrality is a good medium, how should we prepare for war should we be dragged in? We cannot just leave our borders unguarded, surely, we should prepare for an invasion from any nation."

"Right you are, sir. We will have soldiers stationed across the empire's borders in Africa and India, and have preparations to invade a German, Ottoman, Italian, or French colony. Meeting is dismissed."

Members then began to file out of the meeting room, while Asquith looked for a telephone to give orders. He had actions to take. A public statement of neutrality was given later in the day.

----

Around the British Empire, soldiers began to station around colonial borders. A good thousand would border quite a few colonies in Africa, while a battalion of 45,000 soldiers was sent to the Suez Canal, in-case of an Ottoman invasion.

---

To the Belgian Government,

Dear faithful ally,

I have sent you this telegram in request that the Belgian government should follow the British in whatever military action. The death of the Austrian Archduke has set fires across Europe, and war is imminent. We both must prepare for war against either the Germans and Austrians, or the French and Russians. Our decision may change the course of the war as a whole. We ask for your full cooperation in this time of turmoil.

Sincerely,

H.H. Asquith
British Prime Minister

by **Mifan** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 3:10 pm

June 29th, 1914
White House, Washington D.C.

Woodrow Wilson was in the Oval Office reading up on recent events in the US that may need his attention. So far, things have been running smoothly in the United States ever since the Ludlow Massacre in Colorado. While continuing to read through the papers, one of his advisors quickly came into the room and dropped a new paper on his desk. The title said...

Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Serbia

Wilson read through the news about the event before looking back up at his advisor. "Well then. It seems like Europe is going to hell." He got up from his desk and moved to one of the couches nearby and sat across from his advisor. "Mr. President, shouldn't we be worried about if a war breaks out in Europe?" Wilson, knowing this is a serious matter, gave a little chuckle before responding to his worried advisor. "What do we have to fear from this? If Europe goes to war, then it isn't our problem to deal with. It isn't like we will have to enter the war if one does begin. We will do what we always have done, and that is to stay out of it. Let the Europeans handle their own problem, like we handle our own."

The advisor, while still looking worried about the possible outcome of war, nodded and left the room. Wilson, after hearing the door close, got up from his seat and went back over to his desk, looking at the newspaper once again. He, himself, began to wonder what might happen if a war breaks out in Europe. If a war do break out, Roosevelt and his War Hawks would definitely would want us to get involved. I'm going to have to keep them from trying to support any conflict in Europe. The thoughts continued to race through his mind as the President left the office.

by **Soviet Chernarus** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 3:18 pm

The Ottoman First Army is beginning to be deployed in the Suez Canal Area; consisting of 9 divisions and 1 cavalry brigade, this is in preparation of a future attack on the Suez Canal, although this may or may not happen. The Ottoman Empire has also begun strengthening its borders with Russia and deploying troops to its remaining European territories. Due to a weak economy and insufficient funding, significant improvement in the Ottoman navy has been speculated to take decades. The Minister of War Enver Pasha has demanded that the Ottoman military reach 1,400,000 men by the end of the year

by **Tulkomanistan** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 3:30 pm

29th of June, 1914
Sofia, Bulgaria

News of the Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand arrived to Bulgaria. The Tsar, Ferdinand I and Prime Minister, Vasil Radoslavov met to talk about the situation earlier today. They both know that Bulgaria can still gain its claims but it looks like a big goal too since Bulgaria has no power to do it for now. "We should wait and see what will happen. We don't want to see another Second Balkan War" Ferdinand I said when meeting was about to end. "Of course but improving our country's industry must be the priority" Radoslavov said, after standing up. "Yes it should be the priority. Our nation also needs a rest too" Ferdinand said before Radoslavov left the room.

After the meeting, it was also decided that a defensive line should make on Serbian-Bulgarian border in case a war breaks out and Bulgaria drags into it forcefully. Minor lines will be formed on other borders like Greek and Ottoman border. Bulgaria don't want to make the same mistake it did during Second Balkan War which was not deploying forces to Romanian and Ottoman border.

Most of Bulgarians think that Bulgaria can actually regain lost territories from Second Balkan War and maybe even more than that. But some others and most of the parliament supports idea of neutrality until Bulgaria is completely recovered.

by **Greater Kashmir** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 3:58 pm

Saarth wrote:Ooc: please look only if your Portugal.

To: King Pedro of Portugal
From: Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, and Head Minister Pieter of the Netherlands
I would be honored to be an ally of yours in the upcoming storm. However I am not sure that this shall become a large war, and am cautious of permanent alliances. I do however believe it is a distinct possibility and would therefore agree to a pact between our nations agreeing to help one another if they other is invaded.
I believe this pact should last until Europe has gone 2 full years of peace without any conflict. This will surely protect us against any minor conflict that erupts from this. I would also agree to other small nations joining us, we cannot allow the great powers to bully us forever.

To: Queen Wilhelmina of Holland
From: King Pedro of Portugal
I accept. However, I do believe war will break out. Some in Portugal are talking about a Great War. If Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia, then Russia will declare war on Austria-Hungary, Germany will declare war on Russia, and France will declare war on Germany. The mess of alliances threatens to plunge Europe into chaos. If I receive word of another neutral nation, I will send them a letter asking them If they would like to enter this alliance. What would we call such an alliance after more nations join it? The Great Powers, perhaps?
LISBON, CAPITAL OF THE PORTUGUESE COLONIAL EMPIRE:
King Pedro finished writing a letter to Queen Wilhelmina of Holland. An alliance had been forged on the prospect of protecting neutrality in this coming storm. He debated sending a letter to Britain, but decided since Britain might join the war, and probably would, that it would be a bad idea. So far, though, no war had started, and King Pedro hoped it would all blow over. However, if war did break out, he wanted Portugal to be prepared. He ordered the construction of a fleet of iron ships, as well as the construction of items for the army, such as ammo and machine guns. Finally, he had ordered the building of Planes for the Empire, 15 for Portugal, and 10 for each of it's colonies. He hoped he never had to use these tools of war, but he had to prepare for the worst.

by **Moguchiy** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 4:16 pm

GLORIOUS AUSTRO-HUNGARIAN EMPIRE
Emperor Austria McHungary was still grieving over the death of his grandson, when he learned from a messenger the assassin was Serbian. Those shits, he thought, standing up from the chair he was in. He had might the Serbians could only dream of. He and the Germans could take out them and their allies. Correction: They HAD to take them out. Letting them get away with this murder would be an affront to their power. He had to act.

OFFICIAL TELEGRAM TO GERMANY
The funeral will be held in Berlin. We thank you for your support against whoever organized this assassination, and hope you will support us in a war if we are forced into one. The murderer will not go unpunished. May we hope this ends with minimal bloodshed.

by **Max Worshippers** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 4:29 pm

June 29th,Berlin

Official Communication of the German Empire

To: Emperor Franz of House Habsburg
Dearest Friend, I view it as a great sign of respect that you have chosen to hold the Funeral in Berlin. All accommodations will be made for you and your family during this time of need. You are more than correct when you state that this murderer will be punished, I hope you succeed in your endeavors to find whoever it is. However, it is possible that the conspirators may be hiding in Serbia, in which case you should demand their compliance in catching the assassin of a noblemen. I would also like to personally invite you to a conference with the Enver Pasha and I in Berlin, to discuss the current crisis.
Sincerely, Kaiser Wilhelm of House Hohenzollern

by **Soviet Chernarus** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 5:13 pm

The Ottoman Second Army has begun deployment in the Empire's European controlled territories. It consists of nearly 4 infantry divisions, 1 cavalry division, and an artillery regiment, as an extra precaution to the growing tensions in Europe. More artillery regiments have been deployed to the Ottoman border with Persia. The Ottoman military has also begun considering investing money in "observation balloons" - however, with the invention of the airplane, it has largely fell out of favor with most western militaries.

Enver has also stated that he will be attending the funeral. The Ottoman Third and Fourth Armies are currently being organized, for deployment in the border with Russia, possibly in preparation of an offensive into the Caucasus. However, some military officers say that a direct frontal assault against entrenched Russian forces in the mountanous Caucasus could lead to catastrophic results and is tantamount to suicide.

by **New Granadeseret** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 6:36 pm

Constantinople, The Ottoman Empire

Abbas II, Khedive of Egypt and Sudan, First among the Arab, and Servant to the Sultan-Caliph, couldn't help but be kept in awe by the splendor the Queen of Cities. Despite the ancient wonders of Alexandria, the finest cities in Switzerland and England, there was just something... awe-inspiring about the Constantinople skyline, the last real beating heart of the anceine regimes, the Great Mosque of Ayasofia framing the light just so. It was a rather... potent reminder that, for all the 'consuls' and 'peacekeepers' and general control by the British, and their instance on putting his provinces on their maps as part of their Empire, he remained a Muslim still, and in a purely legally sense needed to knell before nobody but the Ottoman Sultan (who haden't been strong enough to drive a Khedive to it's knees since the days of his great-grandfather.) This visit, besides being a visit to Istanbul and discussing the shipping of Egyptian cotton through the Bosporus Straits to Russia, was intended to cement that fact... though little did he know it would come at such an importune time.

As his ship landed in the habor and he and his retinue began their way into town towards Topekia Palace, there seemed to be an... odd quite in the air, and the normally poorly-selling newspapers seemed to be in the hands of every passers by. From atop his car, he shouted an order down to one of the citizens of the city whom, clearly intimidated, handed it over without question, Abbas crinkling the pages as he tried to read what he'd missed out on during his trip.

Austrian Archduke Brutally Murdered in Sarajevo!, Worries set in over Vienna's Responce, Military Movements Take Place all across Balkans., Third Balkan Wars Coming?!?!

His driver continued to drive, his security carefully watching the sides of the road, warry for any potential assassination attempts, but the Khedive could only sit there, enraptured by the words, fingers shaking slightly as his thoughts and emotions mixed as he read. Anybody who bothered to put their ear to the political grounds of The Continent would know the Austro-Hungarians woulden't let Serbian nationalism go unchecked... not after seeing the fate of the Ottomans in the Balkans. Then there were the Russians... and the Germans who still smarted over their break-off from the Three Emperor's League to ally with France... and so on and so forth. More dammed things were going on in the Balkans, and everybody there was too war-happy and paranoid for this to be completely riskless.

However, in the chaos... he also thought there might be, perhaps opportunity. It was a vague dream, perhaps: Britain never really bothering with continental affairs but... if chaos was properly spread, and the Queen's lapdogs forced to go hunting on in Europe...

"Driver... let us speed this trip up, shall we? I do not wish to keep the Sultan and his men waiting."
---

Berlin, The German Empire

Muhammad Farîd sat quietly in his small Berlin abode, his back hunched over a pile of texts on Roman History, carefully scanning down the pages sipping a cup of coffee. It was quiet afternoons like this, he had realized, that he missed his homeland of Egypt. It had been nearly two years since the British consuls had forced him into exile, for preaching 'separatist veiws' of all things. Wasen't that exactly what they had been doing: separating Egypt from the Constantinople government? And they had the nerve to say that the culture who'd been building grand mosques and studying deep mathematics and astronomy while the English kings still lived in wooden halls was 'not civilized enough' to govern itself as an equal to the European states. Yet... they had clearly shown he and his fellow Nationalist party members were not welcome, forced to scatter to the winds of the European cities or retreat into the deserts or shadows to support the resistance forces. He made him feel so... useless sitting here.

However, it was then that he heard a knock at his door, standing up to answer it and seeing a young German man there, with a smile and an envelope in his hands "Telegram for you, Mr. Fa-rad." He answered, accent messing up his name, as Muhammad took the envelope, seeing it had been sent from a terminal in Constantinople, of all places. He quickly thanked and tipped the page, before heading back inside, reading the telegram carefully away from the window."

FREE TO SEND ON NONBRIT LINES STOP BALKAN SITUATION COULD PROVE USEFUL STOP CONTACT GERMAN GOVERNMENT ON OUR BEHALF THEY ARE FREINDS OF ISLAM AND OUR TURK BROTHERS STOP RELAY RESULTS TO SUBLIME PORTE STOP

YOUR KHEDIVE

He carefully closed the paper, shutting up the windows... wondering and warry that London might still have a few men set to keep tabs on him. He coulden't make a speech, show up in person... do anything controversial. Not even a public meeting would be acceptable. So, shades drawn and by candlelight, he set out to writing an old fashioned letter... hoping he could find secure way to insure it arrived with the German authorities.

With Greatest Respect and Reguards to whom it may concern within the German Government

Peace be onto you, Friends. I do not doubt that those in the intelligence and diplomatic departments have been made aware of my presence on your soil. I am Muhammad Farîd, most loyal servant of the Khedive of Egypt and Sudan, and leader of the Nationalist Party of Egypt in-exile. As you are no doubt aware, our fealty to the Sultan-Caliph has been long undermined by the British presence on our soil: nominally to secure the peace, but in fact disrupting it and denying us many of our rights as a civilized people. In an era where such disregard for the authority of the beys and sultans of Islam by the colonial powers has been so widespread, only Germany had spoken up on our behalf, for the Sultan of Morocco, and for this I place my trust in you. Though I must be brief here, I respectfully request an audience as representative of the Khedive to discuss with you plans for a future improvements in Egyptian-German relations, and the rectification of the now-illegal occupation of the twin province of Egypt and Sudan in violation of the Sultan-Caliph's patrimony and divine writ. We trust you, in your proven nobility and wisdom, to be best able to organize such a secure meeting.

With that, he carefully sealed his letter in a plane envelope, and prepared to call up a page boy to deliver it to the German government building... he had little worry the Brits were improper enough to employee minors in their espionage ring, after all.

by **Feichland** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 7:19 pm

June 29, Imperial Palace in St. Petersburg
A messenger barged through the doors to the dining room. The Tsar and his Duma Council members inside were startled by the abrupt entrance. "What are you-" the Tsar said before he was cut off. "The Archduke has been assassinated, sir" the messenger said. The Tsar could not comprehend what he said, until one of his Duma Councilmen explained it. "Sir, the Austrian Archduke Franz was killed. We didn't know how to tell you earlier" one of the Councilmen said. The Tsar slowly got up from his seat, anger and rage building up rapidly, until he finally let it out in a way no one suspected. "Those dirty fucking Serbs! How dare they try this kind of shit! I want to go over there and save the Austrians the trouble of war. What the fuck is wrong with them? Did they not know Austria would pummel them if they did this? I want any sort of alliance with Serbia cancelled, and send a diplomat to Berlin and Vienna. Ask them if we can join them if they invade Serbia or France." the Tsar said enraged. He carried on yelling, shouting, and insulting the Serbians for a full 5 minutes. He turned around back to the table and yelled, "Well? What are you waiting for? Get that message to Berlin and Vienna NOW " as he made a march over to the messenger. The messenger ran out of the doors, afraid for his life. The Tsar then walked out of the Dining Hall and into his study, leaving the shocked guards and Duma Councilmen alone to think.

A few hours later
Still enraged that his Duma Councilmen had the audacity to not tell him of this event, he considered having some evidence that proved them "guilty" of High Treason. He decided against it, seeing that it could weaken his power if people felt that the government was corrupt. He wrote an angry letter to the Serbian Government, quoting his own ramblings during his outburst in the Dinner Hall. He sighed, and had a messenger send it to them. He then issued the orders for a partial mobilization, and already had his generals drawing up plans to help the Austrians take over Serbia. He hoped to whatever Lords in the skies above them would help him in the following months, and years to come.

by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 7:44 pm

The Kingdom of Belgium

Brussels, Belgium

30 June of 1914 Anno Domini

No man, woman, or child in Belgium could have predicted the assassination of the young Austro-Hungarian Archduke and his wife. This worried the Prime Minister immensely, of course. The web of alliances that spanned the European continent was no secret and while Belgium was not a member of any of them, she lied in the midst of it. During the Franco-Prussian War, Belgium managed to remain unscathed. However, it was a period of fear throughout the nation as many Belgians feared that the war could easily spill over into their borders. For this reason, the Belgian army faithfully guarded her borders. Prime Minister Charles de Broqueville also served as the Minister of War for the Kingdom, and was himself a man of the military. Belgium would not fall should she be invaded. At least, not without fierce resistance.

To: The United Kingdom
From: The Kingdom of Belgium
Along: Brussels-London Telegram line
Encryption: High

To whom it may concern,

As you know, your nation is a dear friend of my Kingdom, one of which we respect greatly. However, I am weary of Belgium's involvement in an upcoming great war. While we will of course support our allies across the Channel, the Treaty of London we signed seventy five years bounds us to a policy of neutrality when the topic of wars arises, neutrality backed by your great nation. For that reason, unless Belgium, or the United Kingdom, is directly invaded, I fear I must decline to commit my armed forces to you at this moment.

However, I do not know what the future holds for Belgium or our continent. For that reason, I will not reject your offer. Belgium shall honor her commitments to the United Kingdom should a situation that arises that would require her to do so.

May God protect our nations, and may He protect Europe.

To: The Kingdom of the Netherlands
From: The Kingdom of Belgium
Along: Amsterdam-Brussels Telegram line
Encryption: High

To whom it may concern,

As you are aware, news of the assassination of the late Austro-Hungarian Archduke has reached or corner of the continent. Since 1839, we have co-existed as friends and allies, and I hope we can continue to do so. Our two nations are put in a precarious place, stuck between the great empires of the French and the Germans. As it was seen decades ago during the Franco-Prussian War, these nations do not care about our sovereignty as nations. For that reason, I would like to propose we form a mutual defensive pact against any nation that invades the Kingdom of Belgium or the Kingdom of the Netherlands. For, we are both neutral nations, bound to neutrality bu the Treaty of London. And for that reason, should someone try and violate our neutrality, we must unite against those who wish to oppress us.

We are the Lions of the Low Countries, and united we are strong.

May God protect our nations, and may He protect Europe.

by **Alleniana** » Mon Sep 15, 2014 8:58 pm

Palace, Belgrade, Serbia
"The Russians... have declined. Have they? They have."
Peter I stood up, then walked around in a circle, then sat down again for a few seconds before standing up and staying that way.

An understandably nervous officer, one who perhaps did not grasp the gravity of the situation, licked his lips.

"Montenegro is our ally, indeed... so Greece, but I fear that both may not be willing."

The officer kept standing when the king sat down again, this time with an air of resignation that not Robespierre at the guillotine nor Caesar as he bled to death could have achieved.

"No, that is not the right thing to do."

Peter I appeared to be having an internal dialogue.

After thirty seconds, he called for the men around him, almost beginning to feel crowded in the small palace that was no longer his, to gather the government, make an announcement and finalise the only choice.

Several hours later, a telegram made its way into Vienna; via somewhat unorthodox means, admittedly, but arriving intact.

To my people,

There are no words that can describe the loathing and pain with which I write this; a document that will no doubt leave an ignominious stain on not only me and my government, but our people. Yet, there is no way of avoidance.

As has been so widely publicised, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, in its malevolence, its evil, its terrible oppression of so many, including our countrymen, has declared war on the Kingdom of Serbia. And, of course, in our spirit, in the enduring principles of Serbia, we resisted. We negotiated, tried every avenue, and yet they insist on humiliating us, decrying us, depriving us of our rights and our freedom. They declared war against all that is holy, right, and good.

We have no doubt that someday, their oppressions will end; one day, their disgusting ways will fall apart, and peoples will be able to squeeze out at the seams of their already decaying society, ruled by the most corrupt man in Europe, no matter his pretensions. But that day will not come soon enough for us.

Russia, one who we thought was our protector, our saviour, our ally in times of need and partner in the Slavic way, has abandoned us to the Austro-Hungarian pack of wolves.

Though we are surely the greatest country on Earth, a country of the people of God and who strive better than any others in every imaginable way, there is no way to stop a horde of demons when one's people are so few. They are more numerous than the grains of sand, more scourging than the Devil's cat o' nine tails. This empire we face, now that we are abandoned by all we held dear, will simply overwhelm.

It is thus that I surrender both myself, in this weakness by which I have not managed to fulfil my duty to the Serbian people, as well as all of you, to the Almighty. If they invade, then they will rape, pillage, loot, plunder, and bomb; their allies even greater than even the stalwart friends we have remaining, the German Empire but one of their fellow oppressors, and such nations as Greece and Montenegro, that, as highly as they are, could simply not stand up to foreign, imperialistic might.

It is with reluctance that these dirty dogs have the gate opened for them into our country, but perhaps, if by opening the gate, they shall not tear the fence apart, it is worth it. To save lives, endless suffering and death for the people, to ensure that it is occupation rather than extermination we face, I do surrender the Kingdom of Serbia, and all its peoples and lands, to the Austro-Hungarian Empire and all who represent it, and hereby resign as King of Serbia.

May the Lord have mercy upon my soul, and may I be forgiven for such a transgression as surrendering the nation, despite what poor motives I must take up.

King Petar I Karađorđević and His Government of Serbia

A War to End All Wars(IC)

A War to End All Wars(IC)

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