Imperial Civil War [Anachronistic PT / IC / Closed]

[Syike]

King James Tarkov V. An ambitious king. He had only been on the throne for not much longer than a decade, but he has already shown himself off as competent in Parliament. There was nothing often going on at home, so he would consistently set his sights across the seas. He had beheld many catastrophes and overthrows against both good and bad leaders. Đại Sắt's situation, however, intrigued James. He had never been involved in any "oriental" affairs. Families did things in those lands, not people united under some kind of cause and/or banner. He enjoyed how they carried things out, as they were evidently more personal. All James could do was wish that was how things worked where he operated. But James had a habit of ensuring his wishes came true. After a good amount of time spent pondering and planning, he began his efforts. Parliament was summoned.

James sat before a ring of seats, each of them filled with a man wearing an extravagant suit. These men, the members of parliament, boringly sat and waited for whatever ridiculous scheme James had come up for this time around. "Đại Sắt is nothing short of a criminal!" were the words that echoed throughout the hall, the source being James' throne. The eyes of the MPs widened. It was not in shock, but rather in confusion. "Who the hell is Đại Sắt?!" is what James got in return. James simply responded with a light chuckle. He cleared his throat and stood before parliament. "In the far off land of Quen Minh, there is quite a ruckus. In that unique land, where there is a clear and special culture of carrying out their business, this son of a bitch Đại Sắt tears that culture asunder! The bloody newspapers are simply clogged with 'Family rebels in Quen Minh! Iron fisted emperor enforces law and order on rebellious rapscallions! God damn that psychopath of an emperor! Glory to the emperor of Quen Minh!' It is rightly annoying, I say! Both the idiots of the media and my secretaries do nothing but whine and complain about that be-damned emperor! And here am I, King of Syike and all its territories across the high seas, sitting and having to absorb and process all of this! Each and every one of you know me; it is not in my personality to sit idly by and watch as the media bitches and people are violated in a far flung land that I shouldn't care about. Forbid it, almighty God! We Syikenians have always sat upon the moral high ground. It is our nature, nay, our duty to take this anti-Christ of an emperor and have him hanged! For the greater good of these people in Quen Minh! I cannot sleep easy at night knowing that a murderer and tyrant reigns over these people. I say again, it is our duty to liberate Quen Minh! This vile emperor must be deposed! The rebels, the family of Nghiem, has the proper idea. They understand what their brethren and countrymen withstand against the devil-creature Đại Sắt! They are barricaded by lock and chain in their city from Đại Sắt while he goes about slaughtering people without even a second thought. Just recently, they have made the attempt of breaking these shackles that oppress their nation. I applaud them, for God's sakes, applaud them! Only a couple of nations grew the manpower to actually assist them. We will show them the true meaning of supporting a righteous cause. Đại Sắt must fall, and it is our responsibility as proper Syikenians to guide the hand of the Nghiem family to that falling. I decree today, we must support the Nghiem! We will send them weapons, ammunition, supplies, and when the time is right, even the great soldiery of the Royal Army! I say, death to Đại Sắt!"

A good handful of MPs were astounded by the king's speaking ability, and applauded. Many others were slightly concerned at how serious he was, but it was clear that the majority of parliament agreed with him. These opinions would now go to a vote. For a whole week, parliament debated on what to do with Đại Sắt and voted after devising an educated decision.

PARLIAMENTARY VOTE
THE QUEN MINH QUESTION

---

SHOULD THE EMPEROR OF QUEN MINH BE DEPOSED AT SYIKENIAN HANDS, ASSISTING THE REBELLIOUS NGHIEM FAMILY IN SAID DEPOSITION?

YES: 78
NO: 21
ABSTAIN: 1

His Majesty the King, James Tarkov V, wishes to notify the family of Nghiem in Quen Minh that they have support from the Kingdom of Syike, and shall receive regular shipments of weaponry and foodstuffs. In time, military intervention in favor of the family of Nghiem will occur. Best wishes.

[Union of Socialist Puterrepubliks]

Flags waved all across the great streets of Port Lyvia as the 4th Division, of the First Army, marched down to the docks to fill the waiting troopships. Khemmov II declared the Puterene Kingdom for the Truoc Quen, and by extent for the Nghiem family. National newspapers buzzed over the noble cause, emphasizing the corruption and oppression of the Đại Sắt regime. Only a few jaded correspondents even raised the conception that the majority of this cause was to bring about a lucrative trade agreement with Quen Minh.

"Right. We will need to install the new government quickly and efficiently. Every passing second is an advantageous position lost." General Horus y'Khar paced the mahogany floor of the Old Palace's war room. Khemmov the Second, of the House Romiansk, Monarch Over All the Lands of the Puterene, leaned forward in his armchair, eyebrows creased. "How quickly will we be able to begin full-scale operations in Quen Minh?" he inquired. "It will take at least one month until we have 30,000 men in the operational theatre." the stalwart general replied. "Furthermore, to solidify our position, I ask your leave to send a telegram to James V of the Syike, offering to form an International League in support of the Truoc Quen." The king replied with a simple nod. His eyes were afar, pondering whether or not the first war of his reign would bring about a new age of stability, or great sorrow for all involved.
(Maps and charts display operational plans to land most troops in Northern Quen Minh, followed by a campaign inland.)

[Puterene Kingdom]

*I'll be using this account from now on, for sake of governmental accuracy*

[Quen Minh]

*I'll be using this account from now on, for sake of governmental accuracy*

OOC: Alright.

[Truoc Quen]

In the Nghiem residence, Khuc Quy gathered with his family and his fellow officers of the Truoc Quen. In these recent hours, Khuc Quy finished the letter of acceptance and sent to boy (Lý Tuyen) off to the Putere embassy in the nearby city, or at least nearby, of Hoa Nhung. He had been happy that the boy accepted the duty, and it even made him more bright when he learned that he was a long-distance runner. He was happy, but now, his yawning has deteriorated his energy to stay awake. Gathering his staff together once they've arrived, Khuc Quy intended to conjure up another plan for keeping their wave of freedom active and alive.

"Greetings, all of you. How are you all doing," Khuc Quy asked.

"I'm fine still from that recent battle we had," answered General Quach, "I must admit, it was great to get to fight again. It's like how my attitude back in the good days, asking for a fight like a child demanding what he wants."

"Indeed," commented Colonel Su, "now, we must get this over with." He yawned out loud, denoting that he wants to sleep very badly. "What's your plan, General?"

"Alright, today, late in the morning, we will move out of the city and make our way to other cities within and near this province to spread our influence of combating the tyranny in this country. Besides, by listening to the radio, I have received word about other revolts sparking in other cities in this very country today because of us. That should tell us that we need to help them as soon as possible and uplift them in resisting. So, Colonel Su, I will give you an army of 20,000 men to move to the city of Xuan Truc in the Cam Chau province northwest of us. General Quach, you will take an army of another 20,000 men north to gain support from the people revolting in Mai City in province of Nhung Truc located just north of us. My family and I will move with 30,000 men to the Hoa Nhung province to liberate the city of, of course, Hoa Nhung. The rest of our organization to put a reserve of 40,000 men to stay in the city. We will expect people to join our cause at the villages and towns we will pass by, and not to mention the fact that we will need to take over the Imperial military bases for more supplies. Since we have no portable radios at this time, we would have to use messenger birds for sending progress reports as we have done back in the days, as well as vital information about the enemy. You guys got that, right?"

(NOTE: Cong Ha's population is 400,000)

"Yes, sir," replied the officers Su and Quach.

"By the way, my family and I were listening to the radio to see if some nations of the world got word of our situation. It turns out that four nations have agreed to support our cause by sending us troops and supplies necessary for this conflict," replied the female Nghiem family member, Hong Ai.

"Thank the heavens for this information. It's great to know that other countries know of our situation," commented General Quach.

"Alright, I've sent a boy to deliver my letter of acceptance of Puterene's support, to let Puterene's high authority to know that we need assistance for our cause. Since Puterene and the other nations' military supplies and troops could get here for a long period of time, we'll need to stick to the plan I've just told you."

"Yes, sir."

"Good men. Now, this briefing is adjourned. I need to get some sleep."

"Definitely," replied the others as they went off in various directions.

[Puterene Kingdom]

A warm mist settled down over the humid jungle. A lone village rose up above the dense tree cover, notable for the train station dominating it's center. The peaceful night was abruptly perturbed by a sharp exchange of rifle fire, followed by the screaming and yelling of men in their death throes.

Lieutenant-colonel Marco Elia surveyed the bloodstained clearing. The pale moon illuminated the red-hued grass, a macabre spectacle. And yet, his mouth was curved in a triumphant smile. A young officer ran up.

"Sir, our men have searched the surrounding villages, and found several Imperial engineers who fled earlier. They've agreed to service the railroad."

"Very good. With this railroad under our control, we'll be able to quickly transfer men up from the coast, and into the theatre of operations. Make sure to post at least a hundred guards throughout the train, and keep an eye on those engineers. Their loyalty is dubious at best," Marco replied. He drew out a notebook from the pocket on his service coat, and recorded the day's statistics. "5th Batallion of Regiment III of Puterene Guard engaged Imperial detachment southeast of Cong Ha, four wounded, two killed. Eight wounded enemy captured, six killed, at least a dozen routed." The first military engagement for the Puterene Kingdom marked a good omen for the war.

[Truoc Quen]

Morning took over the sky as the sun rose. Soldiers of the Truoc Quen are already awake, prepping their supplies and equipment for a long way ahead of them. The Nghiem family are all awake to ready to go, except for some who insisted they should stay, with the exception of Nghiem Khuc Quy still asleep on his bed. His brothers and sisters wanted to wake him up, but they assumed that he will know when, prior to reflecting back at Khuc Quy, always up opening the door before they came to emit a single knock. In truth, today, he neglected such knowledge. Moments later on what seemed like three minutes past, a door opened, leading someone in to talk him awake. When Khuc Quy emitted a few words denoting that he is awake, he recuperated himself from sleeping in ways of rubbing his precious eyes and streching his healthy body. After finishing, he looked to his right, seeing the person who woke him: the same boy who delivered his letter of accepting Puterenian military support, Ly Tuyen.

"Wow, you're back already," he complied.

"Yeah, I am," the boy said, panting.

"Why don't you go get some water while I get shaped up."

The boy did as he told him, asking someone for water, which is what Khuc Quy expected. Obedience is a good thing. It makes someone feel satisfied as well as the one who has been told to do something. A good thing indeed. Those were the thoughts Khuc Quy pondered while changing. After Khuc Quy dressed himself up, he went to take attendance of the officers of the Truoc Quen, waiting for him to be awake in the Nghiem residence's living room. Walking up to them, he asked how preparations are going. As expected, the Truoc Quen officers provided a good answer. Finished with their business with huge satisfaction, he dismissed them and went to the boy sitting on the couch.

"So, did the Puterene embassy take my message," he asked

"They did," the boy answered.

"Good boy."

"Thanks, and you know, when I went to my hometown, there was intense fighting along the road. Fires were like everywhere and shoutings seemed to be the audible sound around. And there was one time where the Imperial soldiers fired upon the crowd of rioters and sent them back underground. I ducked while running from the embassy. Lots of people were lying on the ground, dead."

"Oh, do tell."

"There's more. As I ran back another way, in which the usual path to Cong Ha had been blocked off and where I had taken a pass through the forest jungle, I heard more sets of shots. When running to where it was happening, it turns out a bunch of Imperial soldiers were ambushed by troops of another country. Soon after, they saw me and I put my hands up. They asked me if I am a rebel or an Imperial scout. I answered that I was against the rule of our current Emperor, leading to them assuming that I am a rebel. Asking where I was heading to at that hour, I answered them that I was running back to you. Surprised at this, they told me to run back to you to tell you that the Puterian army will meet at this very city."

Khuc Quy was amazed at the story like a child admiring his father's stories.

"Well, you've certainly done enough to fulfill your duties. Well, I must go out and see how the others are doing, so, again make yourself at home."

"Yes, sir."

Khuc Quy was about to walk away until he turned back at him. "Hold on, are they marching here already?"

"Yes, they are. It was one reason why your siblings tried to wake you up."

"Oh. Silly me, I have to say to myself." He laughed to himself at how he overslept greatly with the boy joining him. "Very well, I'll set a talk with them, while you just relax, okay?"

"Yes, sir."

"Good boy, Tuyen. Good boy."

[Quen Minh]

Thien Dai, Capital City of the Empire of Quen Minh

(NOTE: This is before the recent post by another nation I control, Truoc Quen)

In the royal court, stress encompassed the interior of the extravagant building. Politicians, as well as members of the Trieu royal family were gathering together discussing angrily about their defeat in Cong Ha. Their loud voices reverberated through the walls and doors of the room, with the voice of the Emperor, Đại Sắt, being the loudest. The conversation in the court was so loud that it might as well attract attention from other people nearby, and a lot of people for sure.

"Argh," he exclaimed with aggression on his throne chair, "those damn rebels who call themselves fighters of freedom! How could they have resisted the might of this nation's army?!"

"The army was weak of course," said one Trieu male family member," there were too cowardly to withstand the aura of the Truoc Quen!"

"No, it was definitely because of the strategic advantage of the Truoc Quen," responded one politician, "Khuc Quy was a great student at the military university of Bich Nguyet, as well as the other military officers who were with him. That proves that their military skills provided the Truoc Quen with a huge advantage of defeating the Imperial army professionally."

"How dare you speak against a royal family member," the male Trieu as he threw various stuff on the table and into him.

"Enough out of you, brother. You're just going to make this meeting worse than before," the Emperor declared, looking at him with the same frustation that he kept when hearing of the Imperial defeat. The berserk male Trieu, hearing the Emperor's tone and seeing the seriousness of the face, sat down and tried to calm himself down.

"Now, we have to take desperate measures in quashing this damned rebellion. We have to come up with a solution to end this crisis. So far, riots and rebellions have emerged because of them. With the Nghiem family and their Truoc Quen existing in this country, they will continue to influence our people with a message of hate and anarchy, even of those imperialist nations siding with them. Once they grow stronger in might and numbers, they will topple our beloved monarchy and line for their own 'good ideals.' So, the military has to get on their asses and do something to repell these lunatics. Although..." His attitude changed of aggressive to concerned in a second like a kid going down a slide smoothly. "We would need to do something about the people of this nation."

"A draft would do. Pass a war draft to get more volunteers from the citizens, as well as an elaborate propaganda machine to ensure that the people would stay on our side. And, in case people don't follow what we say, they would be punished severely. That is the most proficient way to gain popular support," advised the Crown Prince, Trieu Binh Khoat.

"Ah, I see it now. You're inquisitive as always, Khoat. So, from here on out, you will be in command of the First Army Group to mollify the situation in the South and take the position of Minister of War. It's great to have to replace that old minister anyways."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

"You are very much welcome. And as the rest of you politicians, I need all of you to plan out the draft by tomorrow noon. Any single minute later than that time and you'll all be transformed into eunuchs. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Your Majesty," they all replied, afraid of the threat the Emperor sent.

Crown Prince Trieu Binh Khoat in 1914

[Syike]

I'm going to be a bit busy IRL and dealing with things in my MT-PMT timeframe. I'll still observe this thread and eventually carry out my military intervention when I find the time, which should be soon.

[Quen Minh]

I'm going to be a bit busy IRL and dealing with things in my MT-PMT timeframe. I'll still observe this thread and eventually carry out my military intervention when I find the time, which should be soon.

OOC: Alright, do what you must.

[Puterene Kingdom]

Two thousand Puterene soldiers milled in the fields around the train station recently taken by the Puterene Guard. Horus y'Khar, General of the Army, climbed onto the top of the rearmost caboose of the nearby train. Given his already impressive height, no man could miss the signal to attention.

"Greetings, men. I have arrived to take command of all our forces within the boundaries of the political entity known as 'Quen Minh.' Of course, the dispute to this territory is why we're here. The Imperial family of this country are corrupt despots. The common people of the country have dared to rise up to seize their destiny, and we shall help them accomplish this."

A disquieted murmur spread through the crowd. The reserve forces wouldn't arrive in Quen Minh for months, so most of the soldiers arrayed were volunteers. Even so, the Puterene monarchy had been slipping downhill as of late, and it seemed as if the general was trying to differ the country's attention to the plight of another. Many of the men came from lower-class backgrounds, and sympathized with the cause of the Truoc Quen. (Among these was a young private named Sergei Kovhin, who would later gain fame as 1/3rd of the revolutionary leaders who deposed the Puterene monarchy.)

"Given as the imperial forces are mustering a distance away, I have no qualms about sharing our general plans. We shall take the train most of the way further into the interior, and then march to join up with the Nghiem family, and their army. As the first regiment of the regular army, we will be acting as an advance guard. Furthermore, the Puterene Guard, instead of bolstering our numbers, will take charge of holding Cong Ha, as the rebels aren't believed to have any trained fighters garrisoning the city. In the event of an Imperial counterattack, they should be able to hold the tide until either us or the Truoc Quen can reinforce them. The next time we encounter the Imperial Army, we'll make sure to send a message: the only way this war can end is with Đại Sắt's head on a pike."


Two thousand rifles jutted into the air, complemented with a volley of battle cries that could be heard in the heavens.

[Syike]

In a small, dimly lit room with only a table and a couple of chairs, sat James V and the Lord General of the Royal Army, Albert Steele. On the map sat a large map of Quen Minh. A large circle was drawn around the city of Cong Ha, and a large red circle drawn around the city of Thien Dai. "What are these circles supposed to mean, Albert," the king inquired. Steele touched his finger at Cong Ha, and ran it all the way across to Thien Dai. "This is where ungentlemanly conduct occurs." He firmly pressed his finger on Cong Ha. "This is arguably the safest place for any imperial dissenters in Quen Minh. It is where the Truoc Quen are leading their rebellion, and our reports show that this is also where they garrison their soldiers and allies. While imperial troops harass it often, it is the only safe place to deploy troops without being blasted to damnation and back. If it was as simple as landing troops near Thien Dai and marching into that blasted city from there, I would do that, but that would be a suicide mission either way. Only about 40,000 troops are trained and ready to be deployed at any moment in time. They are fully stocked and supplied, and have a long-range fleet ready to take them across. Twelve ships in total. They're green, but they are eager to fight." James studied the area on the map around Cong Ha. "That city must be entrenched if we are to repel the imperials. From there, we can coordinate with the Truoc Quen to plan an offensive." Steele was slightly concerned. "Trench warfare has become unpopular with both generals and common soldiery, majesty. Many generals have petitioned to return to an old style of mobile rifle platoon warfare, in accordance with weapons that can fire much faster than the M1917 rifles we issue now." James looked up. "I would love to see them react to rifle platoons defending against an onslaught of bodies with no cover." Steele sighed. "You are right, majesty. I see no issue with your plan of defense, other than ensuring that the waters around Cong Ha are open to deliver supplies." James smiled. "If they are ready, send them. The sooner Đại Sắt is dead, the better." Steele responded, "Yes, majesty."

Code: Select all

A telegram has been sent to the Nghiem family that the Royal Syike Army is en route to Cong Ha, and to watch for the Syikenian tricolor flying above their iron ships. Liberation is at hand.

x1 General William Bannaire
x30,000 infantrymen, trained in trench warfare and more mobile platoon based combat
x5,000 non-combatant logistics and intelligence workers
x5,000 vehicle and artillery crew
10 Mark V tanks
100 trucks
x60 6-Inch 26 cwt Towed Medium Howitzers
x5 Canon de 155 GPF mle 1917 Field Guns
x10 Canon de 155 C modele 1917 Schneider Heavy Field Howitzers

1 flagship
7 destroyers
2 frigates
2 transport & cargo ships

Approximately 100-300 men arrive per run with the fleet going back and forth, and only 1-10 vehicles/artillery pieces arrive per run.

[Truoc Quen]

Khuc Quy arrived outside of the residence overlooking the army, active and ready for what awaits them. When gazing at the sight of thousands of men ready for battle, he felt like he was a conqueror, using his army to implement a vision of subduing other lands to become a powerful individual who is determined to challenge the world. However, while envisioning it, he stays away from that aura of conquest and megalomania mesmerizing his whole mind and instead, plants an aura of liberation and freedom of the people in his vision, the thing he intended to do. He knows that blood will be shed in the process, but it will be for a good cause. Not only that, but his humane character that stayed with him when he was in his youth has earned him the respect of others, even friends, prisoners and criminals. All of his traits have come together to make him into a determined leader who will lead the people out of the Dark Ages of oppression and corruption. He kept daydreaming for another few moments, until one of the officers interrupted him with an important message.

"What is it," he asked.

"Sir, the Puterene army is here. Their general wishes to have a conversation about your situation," the officer answered.

"Hmm," Khuc Quy emitted in the sound of interest.

"Oh, and here he is now," the officer said in return after turning his around.

Khuc Quy also joined in and saw before his own eyes the real thing. The Puterene army has arrived with the promise of support of assistance in achieving his goal. Khuc Quy walked up to meet General Horus y'Khar, who was in front of the Expeditionary Force, leading his men as all generals do in the past years of history.

"General, it is a great pleasure to meet you on this day," he said in amusement.

"You, too. And it will be a great pleasure in helping you attain the goal of liberating the country from its current state," responded General y'Khar.

[Puterene Kingdom]

The Puterene section of the Truoc Quen camp was bustling with activity. Several hundred tents had already been raised, and more were going up. The need was high, too, as another regiment had arrived in the country, bringing the Puterene Expeditionary Force to a total of 4,000 men. The first artillery battalion had also arrived, totaling some 300 men and 18 artillery pieces (122 mm howitzer M1909/37.) The Puterene government also had plans to import some older tanks, but they wouldn't be fielded for several weeks at the least. The men were ill-equipped for the tropical conditions, and most were going shirtless; completely unaccustomed to the climate. General Mefodiy Petrov had also taken joint command of the PEF along with Horus y'Khar, together hoping their military expertise could enable helping defeat the Imperial Army, who were better trained than most Truoc Quen revolutionaries.

"Greetings, comrade." Mefodiy Petrov removed his hat, a welcoming grin on his face. General y'Khar embraced him, glad he had an additional pool of experience in the ongoing war.

"Very well. Welcome to the camp, General Petrov. We currently command four-thousand men personally. The Puterene Guard regiments in Cong Ha are also under our nominal command, but they're garrisoning the town for now. They number another four thousand."

"When will we receive armor support?" General Petrov had a concerned look on his face, knowing the PEF was sorely outnumbered in this strange country.

"Not for at least two weeks. Furthermore, we don't expect any planes to be shipped into the country, unless we become heavily tied to the war. As for now, his Grace only seeks to provide a reasonably-sized support force. We will not be acting independently, unless our force is expanded to the size of a full field army. Therefore, we will be attached to General Khuc Quy's army, serving as some of the better trained troops."

Mefodiy Petrov turned to leave the command tent. "Horus, you know as well as I we can't afford to become tied to this country. Khemmov II is young and inexperienced. He hopes this will be a short war; becoming renowned as one of the glorious liberators of a foreign land. This is folly. We're here for diplomatic and economic needs, and if the men don't know it yet, they will once we start taking casualties and they become disillusioned. And once that happens, they'll say we're elitists who only care about money. And it doesn't help you're a foreigner..."

General y'Khar's face was solemn. "I trust your judgement, friend. But do not spoil our cause with that kind of talk. I am loyal to the crown, and trust our majesty's judgement."

"Of course."

[Truoc Quen]

In time for implementing Khuc Quy's plan, the three armies commanded by the recently-promoted Major General Su Công Nguyên, General Quach Viên Huynh Ý, including Khuc Quy himself assembled together in three separate, but huge square formations to hear one final speech of the leader of the Truoc Quen (you know who he is) before they march off. At the green plains of the city, they stood like statues with the smooth breeze of the wind blowing on their faces, in short time before the Nghiêm family appeared in front of them. In a few moments, Khuc Quy made a few paces forward, clearing his throat before he spoke.

"Gentlemen present in this field, you are about to embark on a path of war that will change the course of this nation's history. Yesterday, we have obtained the aura twice in our recent revolt and battle in this very city. Today, you will carry that aura with you, to resuscitate those who have been repressed and suppressed elsewhere. In this process of liberation, people will come up to you, asking you to fight and/or even welcome you, whilst in admiration. Take their decisions in with gratitude and with pity towards the people. However, we must never take them in by force in any way possible. I must assure you all and as must all of you that we will not, and NEVER, be seen as another tyrannical faction that will once again plunge this country into more chaos and disorder. People have been dying for freedom and peace for too long now and they have taken in a significant number of weak and oppressive rulers. And we must be the ones, as well as those who have been oppressed, to spread that message of freedom. Working together with our brothers and those in need, we must make that purpose possible. Cho người Qụển."

(NOTE: The last three words means, "for the Qụển people."

Those words gave away for a series of uplifting cries that augmneted their morale to fight. After the farewell speech, they proceeded to walk on separate paths, marching to their destinations with a purpose for this war.

[Puterene Kingdom]

Explosions rocked the highlands above the coastal village of Mong Cai. Vice Admiral Leonid Luzhkov peered through his binoculars at the village. He could see the shadowy figures of Imperial soldiers shambling down the hills, racing towards the village. Boats were still floating towards the coast, deploying more Puterene soldiers. If they capture the village before we're finished deploying, we're done...

The Puterene Eastern Squadron was composed of six light cruisers, and had been dispatched to combat the Imperial Navy, and secure the capture of coastal villages where Puterene forces could be deployed. However, Mong Cai was the village mostly used, since it's low tide served as an easy place to disembark. Now a detachment of the Imperial Army was attempting to retake it. It was the dead of night, and the troops defending the village were confused and under attack; so no reliable estimates on their numbers existed. "Sir, they've come within rifle range from the village," a subordinate officer reported.

Luzhkov motioned with his arm, "continue firing with the main batteries on the heights; make sure no rounds land anywhere near our men." The officer gave a salute and ran off.

Suddenly, machine gun fire sounded across the bay, complimenting the deep booms of the cruisers' heavy guns. Tracer rounds spat out from the village edges, in addition of the shells bombarding the Imperial lines from the bay. Light flashed upon the calm waters, an eerie spectacle. Dozens of rifle shots emitted as well, a cacophony of noise. Hundreds of cries rose from beyond the road, and Luzkhov could see the silhouettes of hundreds Imperial soldiers converging on the village at once. Every Puterene rifleman opened up fire, along with their Maxim machine guns. After several minutes of intense fire, the war cries stopped, replaced by the cries of the wounded. "Their attack is broken up; cease fire. If they place any snipers along the road, the infantry will clear them out come daybreak," the vice-admiral shouted. "Although I suspect they'll be busy evacuating any injured soldiers we haven't captured."

[Syike]

KINGDOM OF SYIKE
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE

---

His Majesty the King, James Tarkov V of Syike, wishes to notify the emperor Đại Sắt,

Your actions against your people are:

-Immoral
-Unjust
-Illegal
-Lacking in any sanity

These actions are easily condemnable by any rightly thinking leader, but what happens in your nation by your hand is downright mad.

Henceforth, the Kingdom of Syike officially and mercilessly declares war on the Dominion of Quen Minh.

May God have mercy on your soul.

---

The twelve ships slowly made their way closer to the shores around Cong Ha. In these ships were 300 men, only 100 of them actually capable of combat, the five 155 GPF mle 1917 field guns, and one Mark V tank. Leading them was the general William Bannaire, Duke of Pripjat. All he understood when he was sent off to this far flung nation to restore a sense of order among their people, as an evil emperor had been slaughtering them with little to no care. He easily doubted this, but orders were orders. He landed on the shores of Cong Ha, and the 300 men and heavy equipment slowly unloaded off of the boats. His first task was to make contact with the leaders of the Truoc Quen, the rebel faction in Quen Minh. When he arrived, he was a bit worried to hear faint shouting on the other side of the city and the distinct sound of men marching. He wondered if either rebels were going off to fight, or if the imperials were storming the city. Nonetheless, he still had to carry out his orders. He had to leave his artillery with the boats, as a mix-up in orders resulted in equipment needing towed arriving before anything actually able to tow. The tank had to remain as well. His 300 men marched with him to the streets of Cong Ha, where he hoped to encounter someone of importance for him to meet. He made sure to have someone carry a large flag of Syike in the front of the formation of his march, so that no rebels would get confused as to the soldiers in their brown uniforms with a shiny flower crest on their helmets marching outside of their homes.

[Truoc Quen]

Sighting their flags (Syikean flags), those on the outlook informed of the other soldiers of an incoming foreign unit. Khuc Quy, informed of this, went to the southern part of the city with company of other soldiers and his family to check them out. Reaching to where the foreign unit is at, Khuc Quy went to their commanding officer to greet them.

"Welcome, general. It is an honor for you to come to our aid," he said.

"You are most welcome. Our nation is dedicated to help out those who have been oppressive by crazed dictators like yours. And we won't stop until that son of a bitch of an Emperor's head is on a pike," he replied.

Khuc Quy was surprised at this, on how they actually want him dead. Khuc Quy wanted to restore this country to the realms of harmony, but never thought about how to depose the Emperor. Should he really allow an extremely violent end to the Emperor or not? He let that question run through his mind for a little while; however, at times like this, he still never wanted to ponder about it, for they had to attend to their guests. So then, putting that question into his mental archive, Khuc Quy welcomed them and set about to where they will be stationed, while planning to answer the question later.

[Truoc Quen]

Unrest in Xuan Truc

Xuan Truc has been battered by a revolting populace that held out Imperial troops that were trying to subdue the uprising. Day by day, never forgetting the repression against them, more people have grown enough of the violent purges and joined the ranks of the rioters in the cause of the Truoc Quen. Stealing weaponry from various armories all around the vicinity of their city, they did everything they could to route out, or at least repel, the Imperial troops in many of their city’s streets. Nevertheless, in a number of days, by order of Xuan Truc’s governor, more Imperial troops have been stationed in the city to completely suppress the riot. As a result, the rioters are in a state of decadence, as Imperial troops began taking vital positions of theirs, further disabling the rioters in gaining a huge advantage over them. Some rioters began to dessert, while most of them stayed to continue their fight. Within the rioter’s state of decadence, the rioters prayed for a miracle, hoping that someone will help keep their beacon of resistance lit.

Rioting in Various Streets of the City

90 Miles South of Xuan Truc

Marching through the warm grasslands and the umbrage of forests, Su Cong Nguyen’s army went from village to towns to gather more might and strength, without neglecting the assistance of the people in any way possible. However, the order on where to go to is not necessarily in that order. Besides having more people of civilian origin come and join their cause, there are those in the Imperial military that also considered in rebelling against their superiors.

In one military base in the southwestern part of Cam Chau province, soldiers, as well as some officers, began to escalate their anger towards the top brass, because of the unfair treatment of civilians who were deemed to be in support of the Truoc Quen movement. On the morning of the ninth hour, when they were ordered to set course for a town subjected to revoltings, one soldier (Le Duc Phong, an Imperial Captain, who will become a commander in the ranks of the Truoc Quen) obstructed the commanding officer's speech with words acknowledging refusal of killing off those who have been oppressed for years on end. As soon as their commanding officer ordered that he'd be executed for disobeying orders, other soldiers and lower-grade officers joined in. Shoutings were present as the soldiers rioted, yelling against the top brass, before suppressing them later once several shots have been fired from top brass, wounding six soldiers and killing two.

In order to affirm that they were not part of the Imperial military, they burned the Imperial flag, which distorted their former indentity forever. By noon, when Su's Truoc Quen army appeared in the outskirts of the base, mutinied troops shouted at them, announcing that they were in support of their movement and recalling what they have done to the top brass of the base. Later gaining support from Major General Su, the Truoc Quen were welcomed with open arms of the mutinied soldiers, with the mutineers joining their ranks and providing supplies for Su's army.

[Puterene Kingdom]

The ranks of the Puterene Expeditionary Force had swelled to 8,000 men, divided into four regiments. For now, the army would remain under the banner of Khuc Quy, but the high command were interested in heading ahead to break the lines of the Imperial Army. However, the growing Truoc Quen movement around the country needed leadership, and if the PEF pushed ahead, they would encounter masses of rioters who were willing to fight, but would distrust Puterene military leadership. As such, they continued building up their military supplies. The first BT-2 cavalry tanks were due to arrive in just a week.

[Truoc Quen]

Knowing that time is of the essence, Khuc Quy wishes to carry out his planned expedition immediately. With his troops prepared, they are now ready to go forth on the path of liberating the province of Hoa Nhung. Also, to never neglect foreign support provided by Puterene and Syike, Khuc Quy asked if they could come. As per their means to fight for liberation and freedom, they accepted it with dignity. Without much time to lose, Khuc Quy then moved his army after exchanging farewells to their brothers and sisters.

[Puterene Kingdom]

The Puterene generals declared their support for the Truoc Quen, and announced they would do their best service in whatever campaign Khuc Quy embarked on.

[Vionna-Frankenlisch]

The United Kingdom of Vionna-Frankenlisch confessed their support for the rebels and sent the Eastern Squadron with the 3rd Expeditionary to
Quen Minh, in a public speech King Alexander II said that he, personally, would lead the Vionna-Frankenlischian troops into battle...

Eastern Squadron Order of Battle

HMNS Carolean: Heavy Romulus Destroyer [Flagship]
HMNS Raul: Heavy Romulus Carrier

Raul Air Group Order of Battle
10 Dolov Naval Bombers
5 Dolov Naval Fighters
1 Prototype Lancaster Helicopter

HMNS Lion: Gladius Class Destroyer
HMNS India: Gladius Class Destroyer
HMNS Revolution: Duncan Class Frigate

Revolution Craft Order of Battle
5 Gunboats
2 Landing Craft

3rd Expeditionary Order of Battle
72nd Royal Frankenlisch Volunteers [3,000 Men]
23rd Royal Frankenlisch Cavalry[3,000 Men, 3,000 Horses]
1st Royal Artillery Brigade [300 Artillery Guards, 700 Gunners][40 Mortars, 50 25 Pounder Howitzers, 20 AT Guns]
2nd Royal Armour Brigade [200 Foster Light Tanks 100 Riley Heavy Tanks][1000 Tankmen, 600 Infantrymen]
68th Royal Mechanized [55 Foster Light Tanks, 300 Gary Class Halftracks][150 Tankmen, 2,850 Infantrymen]

Total: 7 Small Craft, 5 Ships, 15 Planes, 1 Prototype Helicopter, 355 Tanks, 300 Halftracks, 110 Artilley Pieces and 11,600 Men.

[Fallen Isles]

The United Kingdom of Vionna-Frankenlisch confessed their support for the rebels and sent the Eastern Squadron with the 3rd Expeditionary to
Quen Minh, in a public speech King Alexander II said that he, personally, would lead the Vionna-Frankenlischian troops into battle...

The Fallen Isles follow their Motherland into war they provide supplies and money to the 3rd Expeditionary.
Also they send their entire fleet and a few spare divisions...

Royal Fallen Isles Squadron Order of Battle

HMFIS Galante: Romulus Destroyer
HMFIS Karanate: Gladius Class Destroyer
HMFIS Invincible: Foster Class Carrier

Invincible Air Group Order of Battle
7 Dolov Naval Bombers
3 Lancaster Light Fighters

HMFIS Hegner: Gladius Class Destroyer
HMFIS Browning: Duncan Class Frigate
HMFIS Harp: Heavy Gunboat, Harriet Class

Royal Fallen Isles Army

Royal Ulysses Foot (3000 Men)
Royal Karanate Foot (3000 Men)
Royal Fallen Isles Artillery (30 AT Guns, 30 Howitzers, 100 Artillerymen, 200 Guards)

[Quen Minh]

Bian Province（Two Provinces South of the Thien Dai Municipality), One Day Later

Tat Castle in 2006

Tat Castle is a fortification and a residence of the noble Quan family located west of the city of Quang Chiem - this is where the Imperial Army Group Restoration (Army Group I) is currently stationed. It was built in the year 1127 as per the defense of the country from invaders and insurrections and as well as being a private residence. Besides, the Quan family themselves made the right choice in building this castle because of picking out the right place and the right scenery - it is located on one of the hills of the Vàng hill range. It is what fascinated the Crown Prince (Binh Khoat), susceptible to the various details of the castle and even the landscape himself. The fact that this castle withstood a long time of wars and conquest has made him ruminate about how long this war would last and how long the beautiful landscape of the land will also last throughout this war.

After being called to the meeting room by his staff members, he walked to where the huge table was. The table held on its top a huge map of the land in every single aspect possible to closely resemble the whole land. As the commotion of the other high-ranking subordinates deteriorated in sound, the Crown Prince enunciated what he wanted to say.

"Alright. We know that the Truoc Quen are currently advancing to the provinces of Cam Chau, Nhung Truc, and Hoa Nhung. We also know that the southern provinces contain people suspected to be Truoc Quen and might have been the cause of the recent riots that happened in the cities and rural areas. And we also know about the Truoc Quen currently receiving military support from various foreign countries, so to augment their military strength," the Crown Prince recapped.

The subordinates nodded their heads while giving out a satisfied grunt that seemed like they've relived this moment repetitively.

"Now comes our plan of action. Since the draft was released, we were able to augment our strength in numbers to repel those insurgents in the south. Without further ado, General Thach, you will take the First and Fourth Corps to suppress Su Cong Nguyen in Cam Chau. General Vuong (a female general), you will take the Second and Sixth Corps to Nhung Truc to eliminate Quach Vein Huynh Y. And as for you, General Do, you will bring the Third and Fourth Corps to subdue Khuc Quy in Hoa Nhung. I will stay in Tat Castle with 39,000 men in case the Liberationists have foriegn support. Once the process is done, we will take Cong Ha, expell the foreigners from this nation, and secure the southern provinces afterwards."

"Understood, Your Majesty," the officers responded.

"By the way, I, as well as our Emperor, have heard news about our own soldiers being transformed into insurgents in some of the bases in support of the Truoc Quen movement. As of now, by order of the Emperor, the law concerning muntiny will be passed, which as follows: If there are individuals that dare to conjure insubordination within the ranks of the military and in the entire populace of this nation, then authorities have the right to subject them to torture or even execution."

"Of course, Your Majesty. We will ensure to fulfill the Emperor's word."

Afterwards, the Crown Prince dismissed them immediately, havnig nothing else to say. The Crown Prince glanced outward again to the landscape from the windows of the castle, picturing to himself the vision of this war. He hoped for the war to be short. He hoped it would be short, so to preserve the land as pure and pretty as it is. But, simultaneously, he felt excited for implementing his skills in military tactics for the first time, like someone wanting to play chess ethusiastically."Don't you worry, father," he enunciated, "once this rebellion is completely suppressed, your motive for peace will still be secured. Besides, I hope for it to be a short war, for the land itself should be kept as it is. As such, I am ready for what's coming to me. Ready as a tiger who's waiting to pounce on his prey."

**********

Summarization of the First Freedom Explosion, An Excerpt from Men, Weapons, and Destruction: The Complete History of the Imperial Civil War in Quenmin

After news of the insurgency in Cong Ha spread throughout the provinces in the nation, the Imperial government resulted into more desperate measures into subjugating the rebellion and keeping the citizens under their iron grip. With the war draft officially released - this was for Dai Sat's intention of ending it quickly - the provinces started to man up in building armies that will serve the Emperor word for word. However, before the draft came into effect, some provinces experienced a wave of revolts in various cities and towns - way much different than those of the past. This is what historians in Quenmin call the "Freedom Explosion."


Yen Son, Cho Binh Province, February 20, 1925

In this prosperous city, the populace, who were mostly associated with the Quen Tu organization, conjured an uprising against its local government. It is lead by a couple men who were one of the leaders of the Cong Ha insurrection sent over by Khuc Quy to oversee the current Quen Tu Committee within the city's vicinity. After countless arrests of its insurgents leaders, they simply had taken enough. Two hours later, the uprising was successful and full governmental control has been established.


La Vang, Feburary 23, 1925

5,000 Imperial soldiers rebelled against their commanding officers. They successfully took their base within thirty minutes.


Bac Ha Luc, February 28, 1925

Another Quen Tu Committee staged an insurgency against its local government. The uprising was a success and governmental control under the Quen Tu was also established.


Thinh Lý, March 1, 1925

The Peasant Party - it is also known as the Quen Nong Da - was another organization that had the same desires as the Quen Tu's: freedom from oppression and the establishment of a new government. After conducting raids on Imperial military bases, they finally had the chance to conjure an insurrection on their own. The uprising took three hours, resulting in the Peasant Party establishing full government control in the local area.


Co Uot, March 13, 1925

Quen Nong Da Committee, with their army of 30,000, takes the provincial capital.

Quen Nong Da militia fighting