Blood and Iron [IC/ALT-HISTORY/OPEN]

by **Narintia** » Fri Oct 14, 2016 12:14 pm

New York State, New York City, Manhattan
''Not a penny less! Not a second longer!' was the cry. ''We voted you in, and you did nothing!'' The chant of over 320,000 workers in the city of New York was deafening. Not only that, but industry had grinded to a complete halt. The New York stock exchange had halted. The rich capitalists now trading were trapped. Soon, the new englander armed forces were arriving. A full division, 10,000 strong was preparing ''Operation Death'', or at least commanders. The ordinary soldier didn't know. At 4 am the next morning, the troops arrived. ''This meeting is agasint the state consitution, please leave'' ''SOLDIERS! FIGHT THE CAPITALIST COMMANDER! YOU SHOOT ON US, YOU KNOW IN YOUR HEART YOU KILLED THE REVOLUTION!'' the chant cried. And. The soldiers turned. ''LONG LIVE THE COMMUNE OF NEW ENGLAND!''

Not one commander was spared.

In recent times, New England had a growing minority. That minority were socialists. The minority turned to a majority.

Reports came in. Across New Englander Pennslyvania, infact the entire nation, socialists had risen up. The next day, the Syndicalist States of New England was founded.

Viva le revolution!

Code: Select all: TO:PARIS TELEGRAPHICAL SYSTEM Good morning, or afternoon. We like to inform you that the new syndicalist state of New England has been founded and are interested in allying with France.

by **Duestchstien** » Fri Oct 14, 2016 1:34 pm

Kyoto, Japan

Immigration was at an all-time low, the high nationalism in japan was a key factor, of course California had a fair amount since that's were most went during times of war and strife. Today was a special day for the Japanese though the fist hot air balloons were being commissioned into the Inperiaru kūki-gun (Imperial Air Army) a total of 35 balloons were being commissioned and the research department was working on something called a rigid airship, to transport troops and good safely and quickly, they were working on many other thing as well. As balloons started to float away to go to their assigned positions, this was a wonderful day for the empire.

by **AtlantisB** » Fri Oct 14, 2016 1:39 pm

Hmmm, what's the significance of 1891? The turning point for the dominance of imperialism was 1914, when the century-long reign of Pax Britannica (British peace) ended ignominiously and the world was plunged into an era of never-ending total war.

by **Trotza** » Fri Oct 14, 2016 2:18 pm

The Ethiopian Empire
"ኢትዮጵያ ታበፅዕ እደዊሃ ሃበ አግዚአብሐር"

ኢትዮጵያ ሆይ ደስ ይበልሽ

Chapter I: By the Blade of the Scythe

Addis Ababa, in Menelik Palace
January 1st, 1891

Ah, Addis Ababa, capital of an empire that stretches across East Africa and even crosses a sea in its vastness. In a way this city, which sits central on a hill like so many in the western highlands of Ethiopia, is a representation of the contradictory reality of the nation's structure as a whole. The sprawling villages surrounding it that would be recognizable by citizens from generations ago contrast greatly with the mixed and modern scene of the international quarter in the heart of town, where a whole matter of diplomatic and economic affairs begin within the endless hustle and bustle. These two sides, two separate worlds, are indicative of the state of the country itself.

On one side you have the traditional and familiar look of small scale farming and subsistence agriculture, a skill that the Ethiopian people have honed for centuries to feed their families, learning how hard it is trying to work the land's poor soil, trying to bend nature to their will in hopes that their labor shall eventually bear fruit. On the other hand there are changes that come with being a regional power in the modern world.

Abbis Ababa, a collection of villages yet
also the center of an empire.

They've been exposed to a near constant stream of technological, cultural, and political ideas which have come into their own as part of the new age that are bound to affect the shape of their society. The trick is adopting and implementing new things and adapting both of these sides to advance their nation and people, in accordance with the Empire's own goals, as well as finding a balance between them that can stand the test of time and change.

At least for now though, the main driver of the national economy, as well as the occupation of the majority of the empire's occupants, especially in Ethiopia itself, is agriculture. From bovine herding across the western plateau to the crop filled fertile plain between the southern lakes, most have dedicated their lives to it and its practices. So agronomics is a huge focus for the imperial leadership, as any improvements there can have a massive affect on national production capabilities as a whole, because it is the main production.

The short term goal of leaders on all levels is to find and implement any ways to make the farming process more efficient on a large, attainable, and widespread scale across the industry, eliminating common inconsistencies that hinder growth due to insecurity over food supplies, which often gives people pause over whether or not to commit to investments.

The long term goal, purely for stability reasons and the well being of the populace, is to start having food surpluses more often than famines, securing reliable and sustainable sources regardless of events in nature that can often lead to shortages, such as disease and drought. The is where the Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Atikem Lemma Araya, comes into play this fine day. And right now, he is meeting with the Emperor, in Menelik Palace.

Menelik II, Emperor of Ethiopia
in non traditional garb.

The two men strolled through the compound, going past the various buildings which made up the palace's accommodations. That included the colorful octagonal Orthodox church, from which the sounds of ululating women could still be heard inside even though mass had just finished. It is the first church of of Addis Ababa, built in 1877. Despite the more recent architecture, make no mistake, Christianity has been the faith of the people for centuries. Currently it is a part of the state sponsored Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, which has been administratively part of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria since the 4th century.

Regardless, while religious matters are important to the Ethiopian imperial administration, especially with the more volatile Islamic regions in the east, they are not the focus of the present matter at hand.

As they went, the minister decided to bring up the initial conversation. "Your Highness, I'm sure you are aware that I have come to discuss proposals for agricultural reform that I have received from various sources awaiting your judgement." He shuffled through a number of a papers he held in his arm.

"Go ahead Atikem," Menelik said encouragingly, "we've already set aside funds for the year to be put into the matter. We'll need a good project to work on."

"Yes, right. The first," he said while examining a sheet he'd withdrawn from his collection, "is to educate farmers on the benefits of mechanization and encouraging the distribution of tools thorough smart investments. For example, a lot of time is wasted by threshing grain with animals, which lowers the quality, or by separating it by hand which takes even longer. Investing in things like threshers can make this process much more efficient, and greatly help them in the long run. This measure will also help contribute to the urban economy, which hopefully will lead to the creation of businesses to deal with the demand."

"The only problem I can see with that is that not many subsistence farmers could afford one by themselves. It would take multiple families, maybe even a whole village to try and put a payment on one, and then they'd need to share it. But I can still see it being helpful as a whole. Also it'd be more likely that we'd need to import any machinery above the level of basic plows. Not that it devaluates the idea." the emperor pondered.

After listening carefully, the aide continued. "Another is to help the cotton industry. As you know, cotton is one of our nation's major cash crops, and receives much attention despite being made by a relatively low amount of people. Anyways, the idea is to have a government run project extending irrigation in the lowlands, which is the only place where it grows but unfortunately, receives little rain, necessitating the infrastructure."

"Hm, so I can imagine this measure will have a bit more of an effect on the national coffers as opposed to the people's stomachs?" Menelik asked.

"Yes sir, that's about right, growing the cotton industry, as well as improving government efforts to ensure its quality, could greatly increase our income from exports. While on the other hand, helping to modernize the common farmers work will help ensure food supplies for everyday villagers, and protect against famine if we can get to the point of establishing grain stores to hold reserves." the minster explained.

"Then we shall go with that. We cannot grow without first building a sound base. It'd be like adding onto a house without a strong foundation, it may look better quicker, but sooner or later if something comes along the whole thing will come crashing down. But, as far as implementation goes, I think we should still try to secure a business deal with a more industrialized nation first. I'll contact the diplomatic department while you get to work on starting an outreach program to the locals on the matter. Understand?"

"Yes, I'll be off now, and have updates as soon as the operation is up and running." he hurried off, more files in hand that they had had barely any time to discuss. So much to do, so little time, Menelik thought as he headed towards his quarters to fetch a messenger.

Diplomatic Center:

TL;DR
We're beginning agricultural reforms to improve our economy.
And also opening up diplomatic channels and trade deals abroad.

by **Newne Carriebean7** » Fri Oct 14, 2016 6:26 pm

Republican unionist states of Texas and Oklahoma
Friendship and Labor conquer all things
Sacramento,California
January 13th,1891

John Hondarez stared at the offer presented them. after a good minutes of musing through the first paper, he sat back in the chair.
"sunuva bitch,I have three papers to sign. let me muse through them first,I always read something before hand,isn't that right,richard?"
"yeah, bawas, that is right, now why are they not letting us speak?"
"I would reckon this man has a likin to your colorful boots there richard?"
richard grinned and squealed like a roasted potato northern style pig on christmas.
"thanksyeesirs very much."
Johnson sighed.
"you do realize we've been sitting here and we have not signed anything?!"
Hondarez stepped back and grabbed the second paper. Richard held the first one up and danced with it.
"Richard, give me that!" he protested at the childish act.
Richard sighed and let the mayor of Houston's pen touch the paper, to form a half assed signature on it. he then turned his head and mused through the second paper ,which was not nearly so interesting. sighing and trying not to fall asleep at the words 'to ensure a healthy economic balance and fruitless joy between our two nations', he scribbled out something, and spat his tobacco in the garbage as he grabbed the third paper, making his eyes leap up.
"hmmm, an alliance between the Texan Union and the Californians, tell me, I have a question for you, mister suity man with a big nose, wouldn't thsi third treaty be null and void because we had attacked the Louisianan, which, area third party, and-"
a messenger boy interrupted the meeting ,and handed a strip of telegraph to the mayor/ambassador/nutcase Hondarez, who 's eyes were relived at the simple rather than wall of text. the paper read simply:
GEORGIAN FORCES MASSING ON BOARDER-STOP-MAYOR OF HUSTON IS TO LEAD THE ARMY-STOP-HE IS TO BE THERE WITHIN TEN DAYS AND TAKE COMMAND OF ALL FRONTLINE OPERATIONS WITHIN TWO DAYS AFTER HIS ARRIVAL-STOP.
"well then, if we could get an answer on that note, we'll be out of your hair once we either sign it, or fill your office full of lead!"
when his lips began to speak the 'or' sound, he got real close to the Californian Secretary of the Interior,who only grimaced at the apparent smell of booze on the man's breath. making Hondarez remember he had been drinking hard last night and this morning.
"oh,and your ladies of the night are helluvua fun."

Austin, Republican Unionist state of Texas and Oklahoma.
Presidential Residence
January 10th,1891
the president's office was filled with people shouting and other people preparing statements, most of the old generals, veterans of the ancient war of independence flooded into the building, along with some of the brightest minds in military affairs, graduates of San Jose military college, who walked into the president's office, beating the eager press for a story, the last general even unloaded his side arm into a journalist to get them to fuck off.
"you want a story, I'll give ye a story!"
the crazed madman laughed as he was locked out of the meeting. Frost sat adjacent from the leaders of the Militia, Military proper and the Navy.
"first things first, I have already sent out an order that the mayor of Huston/messup at diplomatic skills in California is to be heading back over here and we have also gotten word that those admirals and generals on our eastern front, in all their fuggin years and wisdom, have decided to attack Louisianan forts along the boarder, with an account of them actually taking one. I have a feeling in my gut that, because of the time the Georgians have taken to address my letter I sent to them a while back, I can safely assume they don't want us to have this land, but we need the extra port space,plain and simple. continuing on then,Admiral Bart, how long until the new battleships are complete?"
"sir, they were scarcely begun two weeks ago,and-"
"so,they are complete?"
"no sir, building a battleship takes time,money effort and resources,all of which we barely have for the fleet you were requesting, but the keel of the Alamo has begun to get laid down, the skeleton like bottom of the ship is beginning to take place."
"I see, very good then,I also want another dockyard to begin construction on the San Jacinto,I want those ships to be done within a few months of each other,what do you estimate the earliest for launching the Alamo?"
"sir, the earliest would be, around July of 1893,although with our lack of resources, expect the ship mid 1894."
" in two to three years? I see then, just provide incentives for the slaves to work faster in building these ships."
"Yes sir."
as the admiral saluted then walked out with an aide carrying papers, the general approached him with a piece of paper that included a map of Texas.
"this paper will allow us to draw more soldiers into our growing army, we now have 70,000 total men, and would like to have a national quota for the army get established, increasing by 10,000 needed men each month. we are also interested in more modern artillery,such as the Pointe 7.65cm medium field gun,with a range of 7,500 yards total. we want two factories to be constructed that will meet our quotas of 225 monthly productional rate. with these guns, we can equip a field flanking force of 20,000 strong."
"the soldiers will be called up into the militia, we have a small population, of course we could offset this by, acquiring colonies, the factories for the guns you require do not exsist, though we will offset this by building them of course. this meeting is over,all are dismissed."
"Yes sir."

Mississippi River,Louisianan swamp like area
January 10th,1891
old Spanish Missionary Louisianan Fort étoile sanglante de la nuit (bloody star of the night)
captain Farris led the charge inside the old Spanish mission,almost at once he noticed two men cocking back the hammers on flintlocks, he grabbed his side arm and introduced both men to the colt .45 bullet, to which they fell from their positions in small balconies. as the groups moved further into the monasteries, three Louisianans wearing hats and wielding axed pikes screamed in from a corner hallway.
"they're on our left!"
a Texan soldier readied his blade to meet them, and was decapitated by the pike.three other soldiers let loose with their side arms, cutting both of the Louisianans down. the third one ran back in retreat.
"follow that bastard, go!"
as the men rushed off after them, Captain Farris took a deep breath before marching up a flight of stairs to a boarded up room. pounding on the door, he grabbed an ax and began to hack away for a good ten minutes before the aging door's defenses gave way, and a terrified priest holding up a bible was seen cowering in a corner.
"how dare you assault the Louisianan Holy Empire! my god will smite thee with a just and rightful vengeance, for we are on the side of the lord!"
"um, who the hell are you?"
"who am I?"
the man in a robe said, sitting down at the table in the room.
"I am Papa Gondalez Lopez de Salvantino,the twenty-seventh Pope of the Louisianan Spanish mission."
"Look, mister Salvantino,your fleets are destroyed,armies crushed and your fortress is in ruin,you have only one other option left."
"that is where you are wrong! while I do have one option left, it is not the one you are thinking of! Padre de Cristo, por favor, perdóname y mi búsqueda fallida de civilizar a estos nativos y mi fracaso en asegurar la fortaleza sagrada de VE de las manos del enemigo, por favor me tomo y hago el juicio final contigo, amén."
"what are you talking ab-"
the man then grabbed a cup,filled it with some wine and chugged it down, the man then began to choke and smiled as he closed his eyes and the corpse fell on the floor.
"damn bastard killed himself, oh well, get someone to clean this place up,and get me some booze, It's been one helluva day."
"Yes sir."

by **St Georges Territory** » Fri Oct 14, 2016 6:37 pm

SHOR BAZAAR, KABUL, BARAKZAI, CALIPHATE OF AFGHANISTAN-TURKESTAN
Jumada t-Tania 9,1308
Mullah Sahin Ibn Rahman Kurê Abdullah Pasha

The Grand Mullah of Kabul walked to the Shor Bazaar, flanked by several guards, and the royal executioner of Afghanistan, a tall, Pashtun man. They were there for a purpose, as the Mullah oversaw several gallows being put up, all the while receiving terrified glances by passer-by's, who quickly conducted their business and made way to leave. This went on for about an hour, as the Mullah waited, and he heard the sounds of hooves, and a shrill scream, as twenty horsemen rushed to the bazaar, dragging three men, who had seen better days, the men were known as the Ghazi's, a force created by the Caliph to protect the countryside and deal with the many, many squabbling tribes. Today, they had found socialists.

The eldest of the group approached Sahin, and had handed him a red book, in rather well-written Pashto, it read, 'The Communist Manifesto', to which the Mullah threw on the ground and yelled to prepare the men for their fate, he stated to the gathering crowd; "All who follow the words of Al-Marx shall suffer a similar fate! The book beloved by those who slander the most holy of books! Hear, a new fatwa; 'Anyone caught reading this book shall perish, so is the words of the Caliph, their souls shall never see rest!'" The Mullah quickly made his way back to his chamber in Bin Bala Hissar, as he heard the final petitions of the men, exclaiming that 'the Caliph could not stop progress, and that a revolution shall liberate the people!' Met with a profound silence.

QASBAH BIN DUSHANBE, AL-TURKESTAN REGION, BARAKZAI, CALIPHATE OF AFGHANISTAN
Jumada t-Tania 9,1308
Caliph Amir Abdul Rahman Shahazda kurê Timur Barakzai

The Caliph awaited the arrival of the Russian company, deciding to go north and meet them their, where the Russian company would go through to travel to Afghanistan, the Caliph had prepared a feast and gifts of ivory and gold, as well an ornate hookah and sword for the Tsar. They would wait for the Russian company to attempt to persuade the Russians to invest in Afghanistan, and help the Caliph produce something more then opium and barley, the Caliph sent a letter to the Tsar;

WAKHJIR PASS, EAST KABULISTAN, BARAKZAI, CALIPHATE OF AFGHANISTAN
Jumada t-Tania 19,1308
Crown-Prince Amanullah Timur Rahman Kurê Amir Barakzai

The Wakhjir pass was a bustling hub, a major spot for Afghanistan on the silk roads, merchants of all creeds were here, mostly Chinese and Pashtun. The Crown-Prince was being sent on a mission to go before the Chinese Emperor, and ask for an alliance, or as what Amanullah was told, was to beg, and to bow before the Emperor, he was to travel with a camel caravan that would take him to Peking, along with a retinue of five guards, Amanullah carried several gifts, as he prepared to make his trek he prayed that he would return home soon.

by **Nuxipal** » Fri Oct 14, 2016 8:28 pm

Celestial Empire of Tianxia
28 Janurary, 1891
Year of the Metal Tiger

Forbidden City, Imperial City, Beijing

More time passed as the Imperial Family settled in. Emperor Jian was given a report regarding the military engagement in the southern regions which he initiated several weeks ago. "Our forces engaged the rebels outside of their stronghold. Our artillery made short work of their morale and soon we had their fortress surrounded and under fire. Two days later, we assaulted the fortress. We reported 3500 rebel dead and 250 captured. The others seem to have fled the field. Our own losses were much smaller, 79 dead and 250 wounded. None of the artillery suffered damage and our generals report a success. Several dozen arrests are made daily as more of the former rebels are being ousted by their neighbors. The province is now again, at peace."

Emperor Jian nodded, "That is very good," he said to the General whom was giving the report. Next an industrial adviser approached him. "My Emperor, communications between cities has been rather slow. While imperial messages travel quickly, they are limited only to our major cities. I propose a major building project. A new invention called the automobile has made travel much easier. If we were to begin producing them here they wouldn't have much space to operate. My project would be to build a network of roads accompanied by telegraph wires to run between all major cities and then branch out to smaller cities and towns. By the turn of the Century, we could have an advanced transportation network which could move goods rapidly between cities. Not to mention, your military would have faster travel times on these roads improving their ability to respond to trouble."

The Emperor thinks on it. "Very well, we shall add the Road Network to our industrialization plans. I do ask you however, about these automobiles. I have heard of them, but they seem to lack substance. I am authorizing you to build one factory to start producing them, but alongside that one factory, seven more factories for steel and guns. I want our armed forces prepared for when the Europeans return to our part of the world."

by **Holoska** » Fri Oct 14, 2016 9:22 pm

by **Kerbodine** » Sat Oct 15, 2016 12:22 am

January 12th, Ferdinand Foundry and Machine Works, Ferdinand IN, Greater Superior

"Ah, sir, ve have something zu show you." The Head Engineer, Evan J. Peddler, was planning on retiring this Spring. His company, he thought to himself, was being overrun by those damn Germans; German engineers, German workers, and hell, even the sizes and tools they were using were described with German words. He sighed, and, back aching from years of labor, turned around. "Yes, Schwartz?" His (German) aide handed him a closed envelope sealed with some sort of intricate wax blob. Peddler broke it open and, slipping out a piece of paper, unfolded it.
It was a letter from the Superiorite Central Trade Ministry, something about an order for an example of a 17-ton traction engine and, after preliminary tests to determine quality and price, several engineers to demonstrate it on a two-month trip somewhere overseas. Re-reading it more closely, he noticed it was about Ethiopia: "Ethiopia", he muttered to himself, "Isn't that like a backwater Egypt?..."
Regardless, he began to pen a letter in reply to the government, with a price, certain specifications, a stipulation requiring confidence of security and transport, and a guarantee of payment regardless of whether a deal was struck with the Africans or not.
He sighed; he had been working at the company since they were producing simple horse plows and blacksmith-produced iron farm tools. Now, as of less than a year ago, they had begun experimenting with massive high-pressure steam engines that could be used to drive belts, pull loads, and run farm tools, the peak of technology. Funny that these 17-ton behemoths were nicknamed 'Kittens'.

It and similar machines- uncommon in 1891- would come to revolutionize farming in the Midwest, but already international attention from primitive nations was showing that it would also revolutionize the world. What a crazy, crazy time to be alive.

by **Holoska** » Sat Oct 15, 2016 1:25 am

by **The V O I D** » Sat Oct 15, 2016 5:39 am

January 13th, 1891
Stockholm, Sweden
The Chancellery Palace
The Scandinavian Federation

About two weeks had passed since the Chancellor had given his speech, before he returned to the Chancellery Palace to continue his various duties while the Federal Parliament functioned in Copenhagen. Valentin Hall had made his intentions well known; a greater and stronger Scandinavia. However, he was also interested in gaining a closer relationship to nations that Scandinavia traded with. Such as Germania. Chancellor Hall knew that they were ambitious, and having ambitious allies when one is ambitious as well tends to be a good thing. Chancellor Hall was writing a personal letter to the Republic's head of state, Von Wolfe. The Federation could use an ally along their southern border - one of two major borders.

Chancellor Hall finished the letter, and had it sent to his Minister of Foreign Affairs to be reviewed, read-checked and edited as necessary. Then, it would likely be sent to the German government. Chancellor Hall stood up as the letter was being prepped for delivery. He had plans to ensure and things to initiate if the Germans accepted his invitation, after all. Chancellor Hall knew there was one final endgame to it all: the increase of power for Scandinavia. The Chancellor walked towards his Cabinet's Chambers to meet with those of his Cabinet who were here...

by **Newne Carriebean7** » Sat Oct 15, 2016 4:27 pm

Republican unionist states of Texas and Oklahoma
Friendship and Labor conquer all things
Jewel of the Rio Grande locomotive
Austin,Texas
January 20th,1891

John Hondarez was still turning in the covers as Richard tapped on his shoulders.
"sir, it's time to leave,we've arrived."
"let me sleep in,I've been up all night long."
the exhausted Hondarez faintly slapped Richard's hand as it went for the covers to pull them off the texan diplomat.
"The President would like to see us in his office, now."
"does it look Like I give a damn, now leave me."
"sir, they gave you an order, they asked for both of us."
"make up a lie,saying I couldn't go, the young toothpick'll understand."
"no, I cannot lie, let's go, now!"
the man yelped and grabbed Hondarez by the chest and legs, carrying him out like a baby, forcing the man's head to smack against the walls.
"ow,dammit,I'm up now."
"don't care,I'm going to carry you there."
with a moaned growl from Hondarez, Richard carried him out the train,into the buggy where he passed out and up the stairs to the Presidential Residence, knocking on the door.

Austin, Republican Unionist state of Texas and Oklahoma.
Presidential Residence
January 20th,1891
President Samuel Julian Frost tried to hide the headache when the two failed diplomats entered the room. "godalmighty if I did not feel hurt before hand..." he muttered under his breath as he gestured for the two men to have a seat.
"now then, how did everything go?"
"we managed to get the alliance and a trade deal with the Californian republic,we would also share the Rio Grande in a 'collective effort' he put it. I'm tired as all hell right now, so apologize if I'm not the most cheerful of people right now."
President Frost nodded and walked over to a cabinet, grabbing out some cups, he asked
"whiskey?"
"sure, lot's of lemon,and make it hot too,it's freezing down here."
"I take it the weather was nice in California?"
"hell, it looked slightly better than in the south,and with these deals, we could travel to cali and pick up some ladies."
"my my, I'm flattered, but-"
the meeting was interrupted as a telegram boy came through the room to deliver two messages. as they were handed to the President, the two former voyagers to california got up and slowly began to back away.
"why are you doing th-" Frost began as he stopped reading the telegram. taking a deep breath, he sighed and barked out to the two diplomats
"sit. now."
the diplomats turned to one another, took deep breaths, and prepared for the man's fiery temper to be unleashed upon them.
"what the Hell?! you fling-turds had one job, One! and that was to get California to be our friend, he probably thinks were nut-jobs! I-It was a mistake to send Richard in particular,the man probably frightened his guards half to death!"
"in my defense, I was drinking a bit." the firey fury of the baptist faith in Frost built up when he said that, he then let him have it.
"Drinking?! you really are the spawn of Satan are you, you dare curse your lips with the drink of the devil,consider your ass fired!"
"s-sir,you can't fire me,it's unconstitutional!"
"oh, is it now? is it unconstitutional to make a fucking mockery of the nation of Texas by drinking while taking to the Californian leadership? let me repeat what I said, your. ass. is. fired. now get out!"
"sir-"
"Get Out Now!"
the now ex mayor Hondarez sighed,then took off his mayoral badge and tossed it on the desk. the two men then left the room,leaving Frost to contemplate the bible while snuggling up with his whiskey.

Mississippi River,Louisianan swamp like area
January 10th,1891
Swamps of the Bayou
captain Farris felt the boat lurch in the swamp covered waves of the ship, running to the helm he cursed at the drunken man.
"give me the damn wheel, you fucking ape!"
the helmsman was caught off guard and so turned the wheel as he was pushed off,altering the course of the boat. the ship cruised down the river and crashed into a small gunboat that was docked nearby.
"watch it you idiot, or else I'll-!"
he then noticed several clouds of smoke and gunboats surrounding him.
"shit! it's a trap, all hands to stations!"
as the bells on the ship rang and the cannons were prepped to let loose, the Louisianan fleet opened fire, the first shot missing a few feet in front of the ship. not all Louisianans were bad shots,as a shell tore through the rear of the vessel,blowing out a stern lamp.
"sunuva bitch,they have us cornered, hard to starboard,we'll try to escape through that boor!"
"sir,we won't be able to break thro-"
"Just do it, damn you!"
the man gulped as the wheel was spun, and the ship closed to the boor,all the while the Louisianan gunboats giving chase.

a Northern Texan Cherokee camp
January 12th,1891.
Chospake Tsaladihi wiped the sweat from his brow as he rode the horse. grabbing a flintlock pistol, he let loose a shot while riding at a half gallop,hitting a wooden target and sending small splinters everywhere. pulling on the reigns, he walked back into the village of the Cherokee tribal reservation that had been set up nearly thirty years prior, when Texas decided that the natives still held a loyalty to the old British crown,although that was not true,they merely wished to live in peace with the rest of their brethren,white or colored. he nodded at his sister, Toschpa who went back to make bread for dinner. as the man dismounted from his horse, he felt the sound of multiple hooves, then a band of men on horseback ran into the camp,clashes between the native peoples and settlers were common,and so it was within reason for the tribal group to hide the women and children while the men prepared their spears and small muskets.
"I am Colonel Buster Peter Brown of the 7th Texan scout ranger regiment, I am here to strike a deal with you native scum,I would like to speak to the chief of this,group."
two interpreters that accompanied the Calvary repeated the words in Cherokee, to which three men nodded and grabbed an old looking man with thick,long grey hair going down his back and brandishing a medicinal stick.
"I am the chief of this village,Kunokeski. what is it you wish to do to us?"
Brown sneered and tossed a colt repeating carbine at Tsaladihi before saying to the surprised man and the people in the camp.
"Texas needs your help, you are to mount on these horses and ride to Fort Belknap,where you shall be trained as Calvary men,now get your things and let's ride!"
with that,around thirty of the natives got on their horses and followed the 7th texan scouts as they moved south to the fort,including Tsaladihi, who grabbed the flintlock rifle his father had given him as a trophy from the Mexicans in 1844.

by **Holoska** » Sat Oct 15, 2016 5:24 pm

by **Newne Carriebean7** » Sat Oct 15, 2016 10:17 pm

Republican unionist states of Texas and Oklahoma
Friendship and Labor conquer all things
January 21st,1891
Port of Galveston

The heavy hammering and cursing were being heard on the other side of the harbor,a spectacle of steel and Iron was being built,another old Ironclad had been ordered by an aging admiral to "bring back the good old days" it was to be named the Liberator, and it's design would be radically different from it's cousins. compared to the two twin rotating turrets on the ship, the vessle would have two slanted boxes that held six 7 inch Brooke guns each, with a separating mobile turret that housed two 300 pound cannons for long range bombardment. the reasons for the pet project were multiple and rumor filled. not even the Texan Naval Command knew the answer, but the old Captain Nathan knew all too well, he needed the ship for his own imperial ambitions,where he was to give gerrymandering it's old terminology back.
Captain Nate stepped onto the deck of the mostly completed wooden deck.
"ah, how's the ship coming along? I can promise you all twice the daily wages of booze if you complete it by next month!"
"we is trying sirs, it justs takes times."
"We Don't have time, time is money,money is power, and power is politics, if that dosen't make sense, raise your hands."
all the crew raised their hands before putting them back down.
"good, now get back to work, I want us out of the harbor as soon as possible,I have a few plans for us."
"yas bass."

Austin
Town Hall, Presidential Debate
January 20th,1891
President Samuel Julian Frost glinted as the sun poured in through the open windows of the stage, inside sat nearly 5,000 total people,these people were the people that could fit inside the building to hear Frost and his opponent speak, the election, or rather the first and only debate began tonight. as the last people filed into the room, both candidates went over their cards and the moderator entered the room and sat down. with a clearing of throat, the crowd,once a buzz of activity slowed down and became quiet.
"Greetings people that have come to this debate, it is being the first and only debate that the nation will have. the first question is for President Frost. how will the texan government interact with other nations in this changing age,will we adopt a policy of understatement or will we try to mend the broken ties with other nations, and what will we do about the Louisanan campagin? will it be expanded or ended?"
President Frost smiled.
"we shall be expanding the Texan steers involvement in grabbing the Louisianan area,as a military affair, it will allow us more coastline for naval vessle construction, more trade for the average joe and it will cost relatively small amount of lives as well."
the moderator nodded then turned to Andrew Jackson Huston who was the incumbent candidate's opponent.
"same question mr. Huston."
the man nodded and began.
"we have done so much wrong in this nation that it may or may not be too late to go back and fix it, for the question and issue of the Louisianan territory, I feel as though we don't need any more land in the mainland ,and should be looking towards colonies to do it,such as Cuba to expand the slave trade with."
"the slave trade is outlawed."
"right,and I'm a duck."
the moderator merely screamed in his head at the image of him being a duck, and looked down at the now sweat filled cards.
"Now then, Sam Huston, the recent Massacre of 120 protesters by the army in Huston is fresh in everyone's mind, if you are elected President, what will you do to stop it?"
"well, if they were so idiotic to dare protest against the government,the idiots deserve to die! call me the spawn of Satan,but I don't give a damn. that doesn't mean you can't protest, hell,I like protests, they make good sandwiches I jus-"
"time's up, President Frost, same question."
"thank you,now free speech is written into the constitution of this nation as an inalienable right to take away, what my opponent is suggesting is tyranny under a despot in the simplest senses, we must allow the people to disagree with the government and say that they disagree, of course open armed rebellion is a different story entirely, but It's one of those things in a Texan's life you don't fuck with, next to his bacon and his wife."
the crowd cheered wildly as the only debate ended.
"Make sure to cast your votes people! the future of the Union depends on it!"

Mississippi River,Louisianan swamp like area
January 10th,1891
Swamps of the Bayou
captain Farris felt the sweat pour from his back as the old ship moved as fast as it could,away from the five Louisanan gunboats that he had lured into the shallower waters.The man had to resort to burning the tables and the damaged parts of the ship, such as the crews protective wooden gunports from the ship and into the engine room, as the coal was low.
"I'll bet you a nickle I get us killed."
"a dime, you're on."
the captain and the helmsman laughed as a cannonball sailed through the air and splashed a bit off the ships port bow.
"sir, we're almost out of coal, what do we do?"
"how much shot and powder do we have left for every gun?"
"enough for roughly five or six broadsides at least, but-"
"load the guns with anything that can fit, use forks,knives,kitchen utensils to bathrobes and prepare the main cannons to fire!"
"aye captain!"
"helmsman have this ship anchor between that log and the wreck of the galleon right there, we are going to fight to victory or death, now go!"
the crew cheered as the preperations were hastily made. the guns were drawn out from their ports and the ammunition was loaded in, the boilers in the ship were aided by the scrap wood that flooded in from the other parts of the ship. every rifleman was handed a pistol and their respective carbine as well. Captain Farris, meanwhile, chugged a bottle of Rum before the battle started.
this was going to be a fight to the death.

by **Auchterland** » Sun Oct 16, 2016 9:20 am

Free State of Brazil | Vrijstaat Brazilië

26 January, 1891
Volkspaleis, Heuvelsbaai, Brazilië

"Do you know how the workers in our nation live? Most of them spend half of their day inside a factory, and some even more! The rest of the time is barely only enough for them to eat and sleep enough so that they keep alive and able to work - Hell, sometimes, not even that, as many crumble due to the bad health conditions that their work exposes them to! Too often, proprietors would care more about their cattle than about the men they employ! The least we can do is establishing a maximum of ten working hours a day so that they can live with some dignity." The man speaking was Maarten Bergman, a man still on his middle thirties, which was considered young for politics by many, but among the foundry workers of the Goudveld province, he was considered a veteran. As a prominent community leader there, he managed to reach Parliament as the leader of the Workers' Party, a small, but growing one.

Despite Bergman's exalted speech, it seemed as nothing could penetrate the barrier of mockery and coldness that surrounded Jan Scheldt, an important figure in the Liberal Party. He shook his head to the sides and asked from under his thick mustache: "What you propose hurts the principle of freedom of contract. If two fully sane adult men willingly strike a deal, who are we to condemn that? These sluggards and their pathetic excuses..."

"The workers only accept said deal because the other remaining option is starving to death!", responded Bergman, his face gradually reddening. The man was known for having a short fuse, and everything about Scheldt, which was, to him, a caricature of the bourgeoisie, only made him more aggressive.

This immediately prompted the liberals into yelling back and the social democrats to responding, turning the hall into a big mess - but only for a few seconds, as a deep voice came from another end of the room. "If the gentlemen will please let me voice my opinion." That came from Ernst Aarden, leader of the dominant Nationalist Party, and a very corpulent man that had receding hair and a grey beard as thick as his body. All faces turned towards him. "It seems important to me to note that every right is sustained by a duty. As such, naturally, if the workers are to work less hours, they are to use those few hours of rest that they gained in order to increase their productivity as a compensation. Besides, we must not allow the people to think that their government has abandoned them. They must feel - and know - that they are important, that they are the strength of this nation, lest they will turn against us like some in North America have done." At that last remark, he furrowed his eyebrows and gazed with the corner of his eyes at Scheldt in a reaproachful manner. Scheldt's face, by now, seemed to have grown pale, and he gaped unbelievingly as he was unable to gather his words to scold Aarden's stance. "Now, shall we cast our votes?", finished Aarden with a smirk.

After the speech, there was little doubt what the results would be. The members of the Workers' Party all voted in favor of the measure, as well as a massive percentage of the Nationalists and even a few Liberals who were frightened by the possibility of strikes and rebellions occurring. The repercussions of this event would surely be many - workers would feast over the new achievement, many industrialists would be left with a bitter taste in their mouth, but principally, it would mean a new direction for the Nationalist Party.

Regeringspaleis, Heuvelsbaai, Brazilië

Eugene looked to both sides as he strode across the corridor, escorted by a man of the National Guard, admiring the red walls decorated by paintings of brazilian landscapes in golden frames. They were surely different from the sights he was used to in Italy, but there was something in that place that made it vivid and charming, and he couldn't help but wish to see more of it, to taste it, to feel it. To be a part of it. He was awakened from his daydream by the guard's call. "Meneer de Vries awaits you inside, sir.", said him as he gestured towards a dark wooden door. A bronze plaque spelling "DE VRIES" was hung on it.

"Thank you.", said Eugene with a nod and a smile before inhaling and opening the door. As he stepped inside, he found the figure of a gaunt old man sitting on a black leather chair behind a wooden desk. Said man was Jakob de Vries, councilman of the Council of State.

Jakob stood up to shake hands with Eugene and then gestured for him to take a seat. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Meneer de Blaas. Your work on the commonfolk of Venice is truly magnificent." He had an affable smile and spoke in such a soft manner that made it almost impossible to dislike him.

"You have my thanks, Meneer de Vries. But still, I am curious about the nature of this contract you propose me." Eugene intertwined his fingers, inspecting de Vries with interest.

"You are famous for having painted the faces of Venice. Now, I want you to give a face to Brazilië. You will be given a fair amount of time to observe our nation, its people, its customs, its nature. We will grant you acommodations and food, transport for you to do all the necessary research, and materials for you to paint a national allegory for the State's propaganda.", explained Jakob, before leaning forward in his chair, gazing into Eugene's eyes. "Do you agree with our terms?"

At first, Eugene felt struck by the offer, wordless. Then, he nodded, opened a wide smile and extended his hand to Jakob, shaking it one more time. "It shall be a pleasure working for you, Meneer de Vries."

Kapel Onze Heer Jezus van de Goede Doel, Vrolijkehaven, Brazilië

The priest sat at his workbench, fiddling with a bunch of small metallic pieces in a little black box, bent over the thing as if he was about to dive into it. The acolyte sat on a stool not far away, with his arms crossed over the left side of the workbench and resting his chin on top of them as he idly observed the priest do his work. The priest in question was called Robert Landell de Moura, a jesuit of scots-iberian ancestry. Acolyte Benedictus thought of him as an odd figure - he had some sort of obsession for science, and already had some quarrels with the Church because of that. Despite having graduated in humanities, Landell was often studying physics and experimenting with communication mechanisms, and also held interests in the fields of homeopathy and psychology.

The silence in the poorly-lighted room was broken by a sigh released through Landell's lips before he stood up, pushed his stool away and grimaced as he placed his hands on his hips and stretched his back. "How long has it been...?", said him as he seemed to only now realize the acolyte's presence in the precinct.

Benedictus shrugged. "Three hours." The young man straightened his posture, remaining sat as eyed the priest go fetch a jar of water and fill two glasses. "Sincerely, sir. I see you toying with that box all the time but I don't see where you're trying to get with that.", he commented as he received one glass from Landell's hand.

Landell took some time, turning his own glass over his mouth and feeling the water gush in to it. Hell, now that I'm not focused anymore, I feel my throat as dry as a desert. How did I not notice it before? He set his glass down on his workbench and turned to the acolyte. "Benedictus, my invention will shorten the distances between the people in a way you probably have never imagined. Everything fits in theory. Now, I only need to make the necessary mechanical adjustments, and we will soon be able to speak to people dozens of kilometers away as if they were right in front of us."

The man couldn't help but arch an eyebrow in skepticism. "Voices that appear out of thin air? Pardon me, sir, but I find that hard to believe." He finished his water and placed it on the workbench as well, crossing his arms.

Landell shook his head, but the young boy's lack of faith in him was not enough to do away with his smile. "I hope that one day you will see what this technology is capable of. If I managed to obtain a vibratory movement as wide as the distance between the worlds, I would make my voice reach them!", uttered the priest along with an abrupt gesture that nearly made him topple an empty glass over. He quickly readjusted it and cursed under his breath. Then, he turned back to Benedictus. "Well, this won't happen this night, so you should go to your bed. Shoo, shoo." With a wave of his hand, he dismissed the acolyte and turned back to his work, admiring it for a last moment before turning off the lamp and heading to his own bed.

by **Republic Of Varra** » Sun Oct 16, 2016 11:57 am

The V O I D wrote:
(Image)
January 13th, 1891
Stockholm, Sweden
The Chancellery Palace
The Scandinavian Federation

About two weeks had passed since the Chancellor had given his speech, before he returned to the Chancellery Palace to continue his various duties while the Federal Parliament functioned in Copenhagen. Valentin Hall had made his intentions well known; a greater and stronger Scandinavia. However, he was also interested in gaining a closer relationship to nations that Scandinavia traded with. Such as Germania. Chancellor Hall knew that they were ambitious, and having ambitious allies when one is ambitious as well tends to be a good thing. Chancellor Hall was writing a personal letter to the Republic's head of state, Von Wolfe. The Federation could use an ally along their southern border - one of two major borders.

Chancellor Hall finished the letter, and had it sent to his Minister of Foreign Affairs to be reviewed, read-checked and edited as necessary. Then, it would likely be sent to the German government. Chancellor Hall stood up as the letter was being prepped for delivery. He had plans to ensure and things to initiate if the Germans accepted his invitation, after all. Chancellor Hall knew there was one final endgame to it all: the increase of power for Scandinavia. The Chancellor walked towards his Cabinet's Chambers to meet with those of his Cabinet who were here...

To: The German Government
From: Chancellor Valentin Hall's Office, The Scandinavian Federation

To the Head of State of the German Government, and the German Government Overall,

I am Chancellor Valentin Hall, the current Chancellor of Scandinavia. I wish to invite a diplomatic team from the German government into Scandinavian territory - specifically, to the Chancellery Palace in Stockholm of Sweden. With regards to this, the Scandinavian Federation would like to strengthen ties and promote a military or trade alliance with the Germans.

I am entirely aware you may disagree, and, in that event, I thank you for at least considering this.
Regards,
Chancellor Valentin Hall
(Image)

January 15th, 1891 Berlin, Germany

by **Kazarogkai** » Sun Oct 16, 2016 1:05 pm

February 1891
The Latin Commonwealth of Georgia

rail station outside Amite, West Georgia
Ilos Corps(3)

It had been a rather busy week for General Ilos. From mobilizing and building up a force that would come to comprise the Ilos Corps to handling the myriad of different tasks needed to logistically support and move them all the way over here. The mobilization itself took the most time but the making their way over here did not. Thanks to the wonders of technology and in particular an extensive railroad system built by their forefathers it took all of a day to reach from Atlanta to Amrite. Leaving from the previous day at the the crack of dawn the time they had made it here it was already 0600. As they were under orders from the National Forum and it was a rather urgent need the train was only ever required to stop for replacing conductors, refueling, and light maintenance. It was a marvel what could be done in this day and age. What would Solomon think of it?

Sadly for them the free ride was over for this was the end of the line and as such they would have to march from this point on. These were not the most well developed regions of Georgia but atleast it wasn't that glorified swamp they knew as Florida. At Least here they had relatively well maintained roads to work from. It was 0800 now though and they had spent the better part of the day preparing to make a forced march across. The objective was simple: make their way to Baton Rouge where they would meet up with the X Legion which was previously already deployed here for border guard service. Here they would set up and wait for further orders.

When the order to march was given they made their way along in a rather quick pace. The general expectation was for them to move about 24 rather than the normal 16 Miles a day when they would finally make camp and prepare for the night. It was winter but thankfully those around these parts were comparatively mild by most standards plus the march would warm them up at the very least. They expected to be in Baton Rouge in about 2 days

As the force made their way along one would see passing them by a rather typical picture of rural georgia. In the nucleated village the houses were mostly made of wood though the roofs were tile as per tradition and code to reduce the risk of fire. If one were to look at them they would notice rather strangely the lack of personal yards and not only that the houses were not stuck together but surrounded by road. The roads that composed the village were mostly gravel and rather narrow similar to those seen in europe only standing in at about a width of 6 feet at most. At the center as typical was the townhouse, a storehouse, a small militia barracks, and finally a school whose bell was ringing representing the beginning of class for the children.

Owing to the lack of private land ownership in Georgia the land, water, and air surrounding and within the village were instead owned in common by all members of said community. Resembling that of a Russian Mir in some ways the surrounding agricultural lands were parceled out into strips graded on quality and distance from the community center. These were distributed periodically during a town meeting. Based on a census which occurred every 8 years individual households could claim one or more strips based off the number of adults that they had. In exchange for this they were required to pay ground rent on it's use whose determination was based on estimated productivity of the strips that the household had. Along with other means this would be the way by which the village sustained itself but also the means by which it paid its required annual tribute to it's city.

Ilos himself vaguely recognized the region noting that this was around the place of his home town. Nostalgia hit the man somewhat but he carried on. Traveling along in his own personal carriage with him was the prime leadership of the corps. His second Lieutenant General Paetoria alongside the 3 Legion Colonels Quintus, Mercus, and Gnumarc. Plans and strategies were being made, logistics were being hammered out, etc. It was to be a long day and this was only the beginning of the whole thing.

by **Holoska** » Sun Oct 16, 2016 1:20 pm

by **Newne Carriebean7** » Sun Oct 16, 2016 1:59 pm

Republican unionist states of Texas and Oklahoma
Friendship and Labor conquer all things
Austin
January 21st,1891
Presidential Residence

President Samuel Julian Frost was sipping tea in his room, looking over some invasion papers for small tribal groups and the main prize, the invasion of Louisana, the invasion plan was two fold, three Ironclads would sail with 150 marines on each to get in behind three main fortresses that gaurded the crossing, once those forts were taken, then the Texan Army of the Missippi, under General Walter Payne Lane, shall then move in two groups of 20,000 soldiers each on the flanks to secure other objectives, such as the mouth of the missippi river and the port of New Orleans with help from the navy. as he wrote off a letter to the potential candidate to lead the army, the creaking of the main door brought his attention away from the papers and to the aide that had entered the room. the young man held the newspaper in his hands and allowed him to read the headline, which read simply:

FROST LICKS HUSTON,TUP WINS BIG!

"you've won sir. isn't it great? the press will be here in an hour to hound you about the re-election plans and promises you made."
"I guess those newspeople never bothered to show up at the debate."
grabbing the newspaper, he saw the results quite plainly printed in the middle of the paper.

SAMUEL JULIAN FROST(TEXAN UNIFICATION PARTY)
102,496 popular votes
167/254 counties
501/762 seats in the Texan United Congress
ANDREW JACKSON HUSTON(SECOND TEXAN INDEPENDENCE PARTY)
70,213 popular votes
44/254 counties
132/762 seats in the Texan United Congress
DANIEL FALLS MAYURTUDO(ARIZONANA REPRESENATIONAL PARTY)
20,985 popular votes
34/254 counties
102/762 seats in the Texan United Congress
DAVID NORTHHAMPTON GILES (TEXAN CHRISITAN UNIFICATION PARTY)
985 popular votes
2/254
6/762 seats in the Texan United Congress
HUGHE ARNOLD LEE(OKLAHOMAN REPRESENATIONAL PARTY)
3,456 popular votes
6/254 counties
18/762 seats in the Texan United Congress
JACKSON MARY RICHARDSON (TEXAN TRIBAL LANGUAGE PARTY)
1,356 popular votes
1/254 counties
3/762 seats in the Texan United Congress

Nodding at the results, he grabbed a bottle of cactus juice from the ice box in the kitchen and drank the entire thing.
"this is good.it means four more years closer to the political grave,godallmighty."
a knock on the door was heard as several men with portable cameras entered the room, flashing and asking questions.
"President Frost, what do you say about your re-election,what made you win?"
"while I don't like to point blame or credit to individuals,I could not have done it for my opponent's blunderous performance at the first debate. next question,yes, you with the buttons on the shirt!"
the old man sneezed then asked his question.
"President Frost, there has been rumors of an invasion of Louisiana,how do you plan on raising money for this war?"
"I can assure you that the Texan people will not get taxed because of this war, that burden falls on the industries that supply our war materials, and the outside tariffs on foreign military supplies."
"President, if the upper house of Congress gets shifted,will it be harder for you to pass reforms in the government?"
"that it will be, but that is not my jurisdiction, that burden or luck falls on the congressional bill maker and introducer. that is the last question, I thank you all for your time."
as the reporters were pushed out of the room by soldiers, the flashes from their cameras lit up the room until the last reporter had left.
Frost then walked over to the cabinet and grabbed another bottle of cactus Juice.
"godallmighty and praise the lord, I'm going to need more strength to get through this term."
"that you will sir."
with a short nod, the aide left to deliver the orders to General Lane.

Texan-Louisanan Border
Army of the Mississippi Headquarters
the first of the army troops had arrived that night, nothing more that eager militiamen and small groups of the Texan union's rangers, the finest soldiers the nation could weild. the regular infantry was still being trained,even the artillery trains were in back order because of a feud between native Americans and the texan army, the most recent derailing of one happening a few short hours ago, 250 soliders and 25 six pounder and 20 12 pounder cannons cast from napoleon's age and the civil war with updates all damaged or badly wounded up by the indian ambush that occured. he had gotten word that three 24 pounder guns and their crews were rushing here on oxen, but oxen were not the fastest of creatures, and so their artillery would be delayed more. the camp had around six thousand men in it, some were cooks, others were nurses for the army that were drafted and there was even an old lady who got caught up in the mix. the first thing General Walter Payne Lane did was inspect the troops living quarters, nothing more than a bunch of tents, some had resorted to digging holes in the ground and sleeping there because there were no more tents left. each man had been given either a colt carbine from the 1850's or a Springfield model 1873 or older, the officers were given colt revolvers and a sword. General Lane looked on in disgust from his tent as firing drills for the rifled maniacs went forwards,many of them missing their shots.
"jesus feckin christ, ya give a texan man a rifle and he can't shoot the britches off me mother in law! feckin horrible!" General Lane complained to a nearby officer as he watched from the tent.
"sir, if I may, 500 more militamen have informed me that they shall be arriving in camp by tommorrow morning, and the 10th mounted rifles are heading here with 300 more men on horseback."
"horses? fecking wonderful m'laddie! back in me day, I commanded dozens of troops, hell I spat in the face of an old brawn that was hitting on me girl, she left me, but I still have me whiskey,want some?"
"no thanks,and what does that story have to do with the fact that more men are arriving?"
"nothin at all, I just like saying that to be new recruits, now tell the sentries to watch the river crossings,and if more reinforcements come, have them camp on either ends of the formation, we're going to need to strengthen out our flanks."
"so, will we actually attack?"
"attack? you're right your arse we will attack, just give us a day to get every pisspanted baby sorted out from the army and we'll let those louies have it!"
the officer, satisified with the answer,went outside the tent.

by **Nuxipal** » Sun Oct 16, 2016 2:34 pm

Celestial Empire of Tianxia
9 February, 1891
Year of the Metal Rabbit

Forbidden City, Imperial City, Beijing

Celebrations were on, the new year was upon the country and peace had reigned since the brief period of rebellion in the south. Across all of China people were celebrating the successful year behind them, and their future successes ahead of them. The Royal Family was no different. They were celebrating as the Emperor and the Emperess were officially wed. The two looked magnificent in the throne room as a westerner took photographs of the family. It was a magnificent time for all who attended. As the evening wore on, the Emperor stood and started to speak to his guests.

"To my esteemed guests, I thank you for celebrating the new year and my wedding. This is the greatest moment in recent Chinese History. The descendants of the Ming Dynasty and the Tianzi Dynasty are united as one. We will keep China strong and I have already discussed plans for our future with my new brother-in-law. I would like to announce, that as we speak, we have several new factories building supplies for our armies and have several steel processing plants. Our craftsmen have always been the greatest in the world. With the greatest craftsmen in the world working on our new military we will be able to better defend China from the barbarians at our borders. To our north, the Europeans have extended a claw and took the lands which the Steppe Nomads roam as part of their own imperial domain. To our East, Nippon continues as it always has, but it's continued occupation of Korea is an issue that we will have to discuss at length.

"We also have more invaders in the Islands of the Southern Seas. They claim dominion over lands which rightfully owe us tribute. As such, I have sent emissaries to these lands requesting Tributaries be sent to commemorate the Imperial Wedding. They would be wise to pay such tributaries. The local rulers of those lands are already standing on shaky ground, one wrong step and they will fall from their perch.

"Last, I wish to speak of our great nation. We are at the height of our power, never before has China held such vast lands with so many people. We now are working to connect China even more than ever before. Within a few years, roads and telegraph lines will make communication and travel faster than ever before."

Applause echoes through the palace. During the next few days, a Telegraph is sent down to Guangzhau, which as grown into one of the largest cities in China. Here a ship could deliver messages to the Islands to the south.

by **Military Lands of the Scottish People** » Sun Oct 16, 2016 4:58 pm

Madrid, Spain

The King, following Congress's approval, he wrote to several nations, hopefully to secure their support.

He then went on to reply to the French.

Mister President,

I was, perhaps, a little to rash in my former letter, as was my Diplomat. Perhaps it was the events of the day that angered me. That does not mean, however, I have had a change of heart. But what I am saying, it that I admire your civil welfare programs and believe such programs should be established in the impoverished colonies of Venezuela and Equatorial Guinea. I would enjoy french assistance in establishing said area's.

God bless,

Alfonso XII

by **Kerbodine** » Sun Oct 16, 2016 9:00 pm

January 29th, Landesweitkanzlei, 3 Nationalstrasse, Hansestadt, Superior State

John Coit Spooner, Chancellor of The Independent Union of the Northern Midwestern States, had a problem.
He recognized the massive influence that trade had on the Superiorite economy. Superior relied heavily on exporting high-quality steel, iron, coke, lumber, copper, grain, and completed industrial goods, and was technologically one of the most advanced nations in the world, on par with the greatest of Europe and almost without a doubt the most industrialized of the Americas- its geographical position had helped lead to that, and, since the United States' dissolution, concentrated the industrialization in the region due to its massive potential (especially due to the ideal position for steel, coke, and copper); in addition, the emphasis on a very free and almost deadly competitive market made progress the only option for those wishing to make a profit. Without being able to export, all of this mass-industry and technology would be for naught. He recognized what Superior needed: to expand its shipping capabilities.
Right now, there was a small canal- ships up to about 300 feet could fit through it- that allowed cargo to pass around the dangerous St. Lawrence Rapids. Famously, of course, a few ships had 'shot the Rapids'; he actually had a postcard somewhere of it, where was that- ah.

SSS 'Marquette', 1890, Lachine Rapdis

Worthy of a chuckle; those Michigan crews pulled off some crazy stunts.
Anyway, shipping was expanding; a new type of ships were starting to be built, the 'Whalebacks' (named for their strange shape, they were designed to go 'through' waves instead of 'over' them, almost like a submersible without proper diving capability). He actually had a picture of one of those things around, too (Spooner had always been fond of ships):

While currently, most ships on the Great Lakes weren't any longer than 300 feet, Spooner knew that shipping needed to expand. The largest European-built ships were already surpassing 600 feet. If Superior was to stay relevant in the world, it HAD to expand its shipping capabilities.
The only problem? The canals that would have to be built were in Commonwealth Canadian territory. Luckily, he had gotten some certain permissions during the emergency Magisterial Council meeting a while ago... He turned to his typewriter:

TO the COMMONWEALTH of BRITAIN and the LOWLANDS
FROM the HONORABLE and LAUDABLE CHANCELLOR JOHN C. SPOONER, REPRESENTATIVE of GREATER SUPERIOR

Greetings honorable Sirs,
I write to you with the intention of securing a transaction of sorts between our nations. Superior's industry is ever-expanding, and we have need to continue to secure trades of commerce with the rest of the world, of course including yourselves. As you already know, all of our shipping has to pass through the St. Lawrence river in your territories in the Commonwealth Dominion of Canada. There are several canals to bypass dangerous or impassible parts of the route, but right now, the largest ships that can pass all the way from the Atlantic through the Lakes safely are but 250 feet and relatively shallow draft.
We would, with your permission, begin a process of expanding the multiple canal and lock systems to allow ships of any size up to 1,000 feet (300 meters) long to pass through. This incredible size will not only allow for multiple ships to pass through at once, increasing traffic by a factor of over 200%, but will also allow larger ships to be built, allowing ourselves to invest in larger shipping and better connecting my fine nation with the rest of the world.
Superior would pay for the entire project, investing heavily in Canadian infrastructure (railroads will need to be constructed along the route to allow for easier construction and mass movement of materials anyway). We will also pay your nation a sum of up to 5,000,000 Superiormarks/Dollars (a substantial amount) as incentive, and would be willing to put up advantageous trade deals with your own nation as further incentive. We shall pay for the maintenance of these systems, with the condition that we are allowed to fully control both the canals, locks, and 100 yards surrounding each side of the aforementioned sites. Both our nations shall be allowed to use these ship-navigable transportation systems free of tariff or tax, with a minimal and neutral toll dedicated to maintaining the system as inexpensively as possible.
All terms are, of course, negotiable, but we- and I- believe this to be a fair deal. Please reply at your convenience; my experts say that the project can be fully complete in an astonishingly short 5 years.
Sincerely,

by **The Valyria Empire** » Sun Oct 16, 2016 10:29 pm

January 21st, 1891
It had taken many days but finally all the major vassals of Byzantium had gathered in Nicea. Constantine looked at the many men at the table with him.

"I am glad you all could make it. Now, the many nations of the world seek to make us the laughing stock of Europe. We must show them the might of Rome! I ask you all, what should our next course of action be?" Constantine spoke as he looked to the many men.

With that the men sat silently for a moment until the despot of Egypt spoke, "Your grace, might I recommend the reconquest of Northern Africa? It has been some time since it was last under Roman control. We should take it, while the nations there are weak! With that we should expand into Africa!"

"You'd lead us right into a mess!" The despot of Syria exclaimed. "Africa is not where we should look, we must look east. The Afghanistan state is our biggest threat, they undoubtedly still hold hatred for the destruction of Mecca. We must show them our strength, or at the least establish a well defined border so that they cannot feed Muslims into our nation."

"Please, there is nothing east but silly zealots...." another Despot spoke, before suddenly the entire room erupted into a flurry of arguments. The Balkan Despots argued to establish an alliance with Russia while also expanding into Hungary, while the despot of Jerusalem spoke up about mending the schism and holding a council between the Pope and the major Patriarchs. The high lords of Anatolia then spoke up about retaking Italy, and most importantly Rome.

As the disputes continued, Constantine closed his eyes for a few moments, then he slammed his hand onto the table. Constantine opened his eyes, the green fury looking back at the Despots. "Enough! I will not allow my vassals to squabble like children over a toy. Our Empire must remain united if we our to restore the Roman territories." Constantine sighed and removed his hand from the table.

"We shall continue this talk tomorrow. For now I shall send letters and think about the many suggestions you men have left me. This council is adjourned."

With that the men would take their leave back to their quarters with Constantine taking to his, there he also found a letter from Iberia. Then he would begin writing.

by **Kerbodine** » Mon Oct 17, 2016 6:50 pm

February 12th, Kent, Ohio State, Superior

Freeland and Francis Stanley were twins. Relatively wealthy- their photography supplies company, innovators in the dry-plate and film business, had grown rapidly over the past decade; certain chemical processes they had invented had made them the cheapest supplier in the Americas-, the Stanleys were interested in a new project: steam power.

The other day, a lumbering, 15-ton traction engine- basically a small train engine off rails- had puttered by at about but one mile an hour. Though its speed was pathetic, they had watched it climb a hill, its impressive torque allowing it to whistle and power on, even in the heavy snow.
"I do say, Freeland, what a machine!", Francis had exclaimed. "Indeed," Freeland replied, ignoring that the traction engine that had just passed was built for farm use, "but I bet we could make one a mark up;" he was already imagining small, light vehicles traveling on twisting country roads at speeds that even the fastest trains wouldn't be able to scoff at.

And thus the brothers began their experimentation.

In their workshop, over the past two weeks they had cobbled together a... Thing. They called it the 'Marcher'. Using a modified semi-portable 2-horsepower steam engine they had hurriedly purchased at great cost from the local sawmill (it had been used to pump water), a pair of brand new bicycles (now unrecognizable), some scrap wood, and a Jerry-rigged chain drive to the rear axle (made of old pipe), they had made a roughly 7-foot long, 700 pound vehicle of sorts. They'd heard about 'horseless carriages', being built by a Mr. Benz, but it was still so extremely limited that they had yet to see one. This was certainly something like that, and it was finally time to test it.

Francis Stanley, sitting on a small crate that was tied down to the wooden floor of the vehicle, was ready to go. He had three levers; one was a tiller, which would steer the front wheels. Another was the throttle, a primitive clutch which would basically either engage or disengage the motor (there was no easy way to adjust the speed while traveling). The last was a brake, literally a crude wooden block that would push into the ground to slow the vehicle. They had warmed up the engine, done some basic tests, and were ready to go. Francis, wearing a heavy winter coat, goggles, and top hat, signaled to his brother that it was all set. Pressing down the clutch lever, the speeding gear connected to the motor clanked and clashed for a moment, before finally meshing with the rear axle. The vehicle lurched forward, the steam engine's governor visibly spinning slower under the unexpected load. Francis, almost thrown off by the acceleration, was moving forward at a speed of several miles per hour. Freeland cheered behind him. The vehicle peeled off onto a frozen lake (the flattest and easiest test surface they could think of), eating through the two inches of snow as though they weren't there.

Suddenly, though, after just a few seconds, there was a crack. Freeland stopped cheering and froze. Was the ice going to crack??... Surely not at this time of year, they had had sleighs out here just the other day... Then the vehicle collapsed, the rear axle snapping, both left-hand wheels bending into ovals, and the steam engine (breaking out of its holdings) falling off into the snow. Francis, terrified, pulled the brake and, in a panic, jumped off to the side.

The vehicle was totally destroyed. However, the brothers knew that their idea had potential... Perhaps with some tweaking to the engine to make it lighter- it could power other things too, perhaps boats or futuristic air vehicles-, and building a stronger frame and more hardy wheels, they could finally produce the long-predicted vehicle that would supplant the horse!

Finally, a practical horseless carriage!

However, they knew, it would take years.

by **Newne Carriebean7** » Mon Oct 17, 2016 7:22 pm

Texan-Louisianan Border
Army of the Mississippi Headquarters
January 20th,1891

General Walter Payne Lane stared at the map in the early morning hours,the Louisianan forces had dug in along the Mississippi river, roughly 40 miles from New Orleans,there were several old and decaying bridges, not nearly enough for the men to attack with, and so he had to send nearly twenty teams of 100 engineers and slaves to begin to construct ten bridges to allow the men to pass.if it meant the assault had to be postponed, he would have to grit his teeth and either bullshit his way to the command in Huston, or he would tell the truth, it would be a hard decision to tell, and either way, the command would be pissed anyway. he settled on having no contact with the politicians in Huston,as he needed to focus all his efforts on the attack. that did not mean he was entirely silent, as he was writing a letter to Huston for more men,guns and food, an officer entered the lightly wet tent and saluted,forcing Lane's attention to the man.
"sir, we've gotten a report that a large column of troops has been sighted on the other side of the river."
"enemies no doubt, have the pickets stay sharp, and if trouble comes, get the men into battle formation, but only if we're about to be attacked."
"Yes sir."
as the soldier left the tent, he went back to his writing.

To: President Samuel Julian Frost of the Texan Union
From: General Walter Payne Lane of the Texan Army of the Mississippi
ahoy,I am writing to inform you that the army stationed for the Invasion of Louisiana is not nearly in adequate shape, many men are suffering from the cramped spaces and the low ammunition available prohibits training the men for rifled combat, the same story is with the artillery, if you would send some wagons of supplies towards our locational camp, 41 miles from the City of New Orleans, I would appreciate it much, ya rotten feckin bastard president.

with that, he folded the letter in an envelop and tossed it at a messenger on horseback.

Mississippi River,Louisianan swamp like area
January 10th,1891
Swamps of the Bayou
Captain Farris felt the Youthful lurch as the Louisianan vessels closed in, the paddle wheeled steamer had turned to broadside,blocking off the shallow and narrow entrance to the open sea.
"make sure the powders ready and the shells are loaded!"
"sir, all guns are awaiting the order to fire."
"are they in range?"
"sir,not yet,they will be in about twenty seconds."
Farris nodded his head, then rushed to the edge of the ship, standing on a cannon and gripping the rigging by one hand, he barked out the command:
"fire now!"
"sir, we are still not in range, please wa-"
"I gave you an order, fire!"
the gunnery officer gulped and rushed downstairs,mouthing off the order to fire as the powder boys ran to the magazine to get more shots and shells. the six cannons in the hull let loose with the heavy projectiles, one of them hitting a gunboat's smokestack,tearing a hole in it. another sailed into a nearby gunboat's main weapon, jamming it so the louisanans could not fire. the other four shots splashed into the sea.
"top guns let loose!"
the four main top cannons were thrown backwards as the powder was lit, their heavy iron balls flying through the air, only one of them making an impact on the deck of the ship.
it was now the Louisianan's turn for payback. two gunboats let loose their front ordnance, one smashing a hole in the front of the ship, sending two men overboard with screams.
"rifles to the top, pick off their captains, make them chicken less without heads, then we can eat them up for dinner!"
"Yes sir!"
as several marines grabbed their rifles and climbed the rigging, others grabbed their carbines and let loose at the Louisianan fleet from a small bullet filled wooden parapet.
the battle continued on, Captain Farris grabbed his whiskey and chugged it.an aide tried to take the bottle away from him.
"sir, you can't be drinking in the middle of battle!"
"and I'm your sister as well,fuck on off and let me lead, I shoot better when I have whiskey,but tequila will have to do!"
with a jerk, Farris regained the alcohol and nursed it,shouting obscenities at the enemy.

Fort Belknap
January 20th,1891
Chospake Tsaladihi had nearly fallen asleep on his horse as it continued with the rest of the convoy to the fort, but, he made it with only a minor bruise from a clash with another native named Hospko over some rum ration that a Texan Calvary man had traded for some tobacco that belonged to Tsaladihi.
"how much longer, cap'n, my ass is riding me all night long."
"we're here."
"bullshit,I don't see no fort."
"look to your left."
the tired private was shut up as the fort appeared. to Tsaladihi, it was a decrepit site, the old cannons were placed on the upper edge of the fort, with only a handful of soldiers with lamps keeping watch, illuminating the cracked, termite infested wood and the rust from the old civil war era cannons that the fort still used. a few miles from the fort, he noticed a ditch. nudging a nearby soldier, he questioned
"what do you use that for,ammunition storage?"
"we used to, now we just take a piss or shit in it."
"why,don't you have latrines or holes in the ground at the fort?"
"no, old president Lamar took em out in '80, now we just use that to shit in."
with that, Tsaladihi kept quiet as the men finally entered the fort. several old veterans nearly jumped to their rifles when they saw the natives riding with them, before Captain Brown assured them.
"these are the first of our Native Calvary men, these men shall train here for two weeks in basic Calvary man skills, you are to give them a good texan welcome, or I'll have to court martial you for negligible duty and disobeying orders, if you need me, I believe Colonel Ransun has returned from the Oklahoman patrol and recruitment?"
"aye, he's playing cards in the mess, ye want to join?"
"sure, why the hell not, it'll give me something to do."
as the crusty old cook wandered off, Brown remembered he had to inform the new recruits.
"it's lamps out at 01000, breakfast will be at 0800 with two bells,there is service every sunday from 0900 to 1200, rifle practice will begin tommorrow at 0900, but for now, you have the rest of the night off,good day."
the men saluted, then dismounted from their steeds. Tsaladihi stopped a man that was heading to play a game outside.
"excuse me, where are the beds?"
"beds? over there."
the man pointed to a collection of small doors.
"the ones with signs above them are occupied, the blank ones are vacant to use, you just need to write your name above the door with these signs. go nuts."
"th-thank you."
with a studder, Tsaladihi grabbed a small knife and carved his full name above one of the doors that was next to the cannon range of four small guns. entering the room, he smiled at the rat in there that was nibbling on an old sailor's biscuit.
"at least I have some company Mr rat."
with a sigh, he collapsed on the bed and climbed in the covers,exhausted.
"I wonder what tomorrow holds for me?"he mumbled as he began to sleep.

Austin,Texas
January 23rd,1891
Texan Congressional Meetinghouse
President Samuel Julian Frost stood at the podium where the various members of the Texan Congress were gathered,granted many of them were thick heads, but if they were polite to allow him to speak for five minutes to himself and the idiots that did not do the correct thing and drink beer,he would take it. clearing his throat of some lodged up spit, he began the speech.
"Honored Representatives,you have come far from every corner of the grand state of Texas to hear this president speak to you all, as is tradition. I remember when Sam Huston gave the speech to the congress in Columbia when it was first formed, I read it from the stories my father gave, as he was a witness to the birth of a nation. now this nation is on a course of either destruction or victory, and we must choose wisely in these trying times the invasion of Louisiana will proceed with much haste being given to more supplies to the already growing number of troops that fight to expand the texan banner to other parts of the Continent. I have great faith in the men that are dying to ensure the Texan ideals of freedom,democracy,and equality for all men and women are spread to every corner of this wonderful god filled globe that we call home. I can safely say in the areas of education,small businesses and the armed forces we are not preforming well enough, under my grand new 'United Initiative' we shall get rid of the natives that raid our farms, kill our settlers that have sweat for every acre of land that they have. it is heartbreaking to see such a proud people get wiped out. I say to those native scumbags that pollute our white ways,pray for forgiveness, as our soldiers shall wipe your scourge from the face of this big blue and green ball we call earth! thank you."
as he crowd cheered and the congressmen began to file out, Richard sat with his arms crossed as the President began to walk out, there was his chance, he got up from his seat, gripping the colt revolver in his pocket, locked eyes with the president with a disarming smile, Frost walked to meet the young man.
"why, hello there, um, Richard was it? strange to meet you here, why don't you take those hands out and let's shake?"
Richard grew tense,taking a deep breath, he knew he had to act now. quickly barking out-
"Deus servabit filiis illius unionis bibendum!Death to those bastards that did not give me a contract!"
he then fired twice, both shots hitting Frost in the left lung,forcing the man down while several bystanders tackled the man.
the guard commander was in shock at what happened.
"arrest this man,and telegraph the Vice President!"

SS Fallen Spruce
Gary Raleigh Hanson was sipping a beer on the outside deck of the river boat, it was his own little government paid trip to go on an expenses free head opener, or an excuse to relax and not do a damn thing for three days, hell, if the taxpayers were happy with fueling his adventurously lazy side, he would be fine to tax them more. as he got up to grab more iced tea, he heard a knock on the door.
"what is it?" the annoyed man said as an aide saluted.
"sir, grave news, President Frost has been shot."
"what? by who?"
"we don't know yet, everything's shrouded and unclear as of right now."
"damn,so why the hell are you bothering me?"
"you're the next President,if you would take the oath,please?"
Hanson sighed.
"I see, let's go then."
the two entered the house boat, the man's father grabbed a dusty old bible and had Hanson put his hand on it.
"repeat after me, I, Gary Raliegh Hanson, promise to uphold the office of the Presidency of the Union of Texas with diligence,vigilance,trustworthiness and respect to all peoples in the nation."
"I,Gary Raliegh Hanson, promise to uphold the office of the Presidency of the Union of Texas with diligence,vigilance,trustworthiness and respect to all peoples in the nation."
the two men shook hands and the aide nodded.
"congratulations, Mr. President. let's go to Huston."
with a sigh, Hanson left the boat to become the 11th President of the Republic of Texas.

Blood and Iron [IC/ALT-HISTORY/OPEN]

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