Age of Imperialism: A Colonization RP IC

[Bruke]

The treaty calls for a ceasefire agreement between Khedivate and the Hashemites. The main points of this treaty are:
1.Liberians, French, Ethiopians and others who took part on Hashemites side would be paid and sent home. Those who wished to stay in the Hashemite Sultanate would be treated as citizens of the sultanate, unless the Mother country asks for their return.
2. Ethiopians would be protectors of christian citizens in Hashemite Sultanate, Egypt and Sudan which belong to the Khedivate.
3. Hashemite ambassador would be protector of rights of Muslim Ethiopians.
4. No war should be declared at Khedivates[English or Romans] for a period of 2 years [a month in-game]
5. Hashemites would recieve Jeusalem and Sinai along with Darfur would be Khedivate's provinces.
6. Hashemites would be responsible for the war and would have to pay bi-monthly concessions to Cairo.
7. Hereby, Khedivate is a part of Roman and English dominions.

OOC: you have to RP that you've negotated the treaty with the English and the Romans. first, set up a time, and have them RP their diplomats working out the treaty with you.

[Al-Hind Indus]

After losing the battle, Hashemites had been demoralised. The Sultan asked his Colonial Company to send explorers around the globe. His explorers had earlier been successful in obtaining the Maldives and New Zeeland.Though, Europeans might have explored this region. The Ottomans had heard only of a continent beyond Africa, which belonged to a collection of States. Hence to verify the truth, Barbarossa along with 40,000 his men were ordered to go on a voyage . They reached an unknown land. Tired from the voyage,Barbarossa's Spanish assistant who is close to death fearfully looks at a tree unknown to the Turks and Arabs and screams "pau-brasil". Barbarossa inquires what he had meant, but his assistant passes away. Stuck in an unknown island. He tells his men that the news anyhow should reach Istanbul. He says: " Oh men! We have lost the war against the rebellious Khedivate, we have lost our men everywhere. Maybe this is the place where we shall get victory. Our young friend had passed away saying 'pau-brasil'. Hence,in the honor of our beloved friends' last words. We shall name this land Brasil. Send news to the sultan. Check every inch of land. Kill any pests who hinder our country's progress. Dominance is for the sake of god alone. Piri Reis another admiral says," It looks as if we have reached to a land which is near to the contient of Africa. The birds and animals here do look unique. Search for humans."

Piri Reis decides to draw the map of this new land.
Barbarossa plants the Hashemite flag on Brasilian Soil.

[Al-Hind Indus]

The Hashemites have from the beginning, been eager to hep the Ethiopians. They were and still are the only friendly power in all of Africa. Ethiopia had been troubled by Somalis and a Hashemite fleet led by Khalil Rifat Pasha has arrived in Mogadishu to bombard the rebellious. Halil Pasha has been asked to first politely ask them to surrender in the name of the Sultanate, and if then they do not agree to bombard them with ships. He has been told to keep number of deaths less as they are future citizens of possible Somalian Emirate.

[Duestchstien]

Dutch Colonial Updates
Influence expanded in Congo after successful trade relations and agreements were made. Official Provincial Government was put in place to manage business in the region. 5,000 troops were transferred to Wilhelmsburg (Kalemie), strengthening position in east congo. Fort Dar es Salaam established. Further military excursions on Tanzanian Coast, merchants and diplomats sent to trade and engage with native tribes. Trade ships set course for Bengladesh and Sri Lanka, filled with cartographers, diplomats, merchants, translators, missionairies, and soldiers. This expedition was funded by the privately owned Flemo-Dutch India Trade Company, with additional funds from stockholders and the King himself. Possible colonies have been debated in both Amsterdam and Jakarta.

To: South Africa
From: the Greater Netherlands

---

Dear, President and Dignitaries of the South African State

We are glad to receive your help on our ventures in Africa. We have observed your growth and success in South Africa and hope to mimic it's success. We require workers and cartographers to help guide the ship, as well as translators with experience in Bantu languages and customs. Send troops to the rallying point in Kinshasa. Furthermore, we wish to fund South African economic adventures and expansion. Perhaps South African dignitaries could meet with representatives of the Dutch in Kinshasa to discuss further relations and possibilities.

Thanks,
Francis de Winton, Governor of the Dutch Missions and Settlements of the Congo Region

[Vrijstaat Limburg]

Pretoria Forts, Pretorian Rifle Regiment

The troops were saying their goodbyes, before being shipped out to Stone town, Mozambique, to travel to Kinshasa. The troops would escort the workers, missionaries and diplomats that would support the Dutch in their foundation of colonies in the Congo. They'd get on troop transport ships from Stonetown, paid for by the South African government. When Paul Kruger got the message back from the dutch government, he was filled with joy and excitement. He would join the volunteers if he didn't have to fulfill his expectations in his republic.

And so the troops left, marching to Stone town, with the farmers, workers, missionaries and other civilians passing by in Ossewa's, marching along the horizon.

To: Francis de Winton, Governor of the Dutch Congo.

Thank you for letting us cooperate with you in your mission in Congo. We've sent dutch reformed pastors, labourers, many of which are black, Afrikaans farmers, diplomats and representatives of the republic, boer commandos and regular troops, which will be sailing around the cape, and should arrive in Kinshasa in less than a month.

We wish the best of luck to you and your settlements, and hope to arrive soon and well.
We apologize for not reaching out to the correct office. I suppose that it would have been a better plan to write to Kinshasa directly, instead of writing to the Hague. Thank you for your kindhearted reply, however. We'll now continue to send these letters to Kinshasa. Please excuse our mistakes.

Kind regards,
President Paul Kruger.

Zimbabwe

The Farmers are settling throughout Zimbabwe, and the republic will be tasked with setting up infrastructure in the savage yet fertile land.

[Tysoania]

Tokyo, Japan

As the Royal Philippine Company's ship was tied off to the moorings of the dock, Miguel Salamanca scanned the crowds at the docks for any sign of an official delegation. Unfortunately, he was so fixated on trying to determine the activities of a nearby group of Japanese sailors that he nearly bumped into the lead Japanese delegate as Salamanca disembarked.

Salamanca shook himself, then straightened out his suit and offered his hand. "You must be the Prime Minister of Japan? It is a pleasure to meet you."

The Spanish mission to Japan has arrived in Tokyo.

[Halazy]

Sultan: Religion teaches us to bow before none. I hope you understand it. We are slaves to our God, hence we bow to him. We do understand you might not like it. Hence, we bring to you the Maxim Gun. Further the great Inventor Maximoglu too has accompanied us. We hope you would allow him to train your soldiers. We have three requests : Firstly, Establishment of formal relations between the Celestial Empire and us. Secondly, We bring to you the coffee that from beginning was ours. Surely, we know your love for tea. Why not try coffee. Thirdly, a request to provide Uighur troops for our battle in Sudan.
I pause for the Emperor's arrival.
(Image)

The Forbidden Palace, Peking, China
The weapon was an impressive contraption, to be sure, but the brazen breach of conduct by the Sultan was... Well, to call it disappointing implied the expectation that barbarians could be trusted to know how to treat their generous suzerain, but at any rate, the Arab king had judged his importance poorly. Perhaps the one saving grace was that the young Emperor hadn't been there to be personally insulted; perhaps this could be salvaged.

"Esteemed guest," Empress Dowager Cixi addressed the Sultan, a small smile on her face, "to not kowtow before the Son of Heaven, the manifestation of God's will on Earth, is a brave and dangerous decision. This says much about your character and may be judged accordingly." As the interpreter translated her words into Arabic, she continued, "However, our holy sovereign is not currently present to witness this, so you may yet change your mind. As to your tribute, it is quite impressive; we will of course like to speak to the device's inventor, and to see it perform compared to one of our army's Gatling guns. Your coffee, too, is generous, and may find a place in China's wealthy markets, but understand that tea is more than just a drink to our people, it is a deeply ingrained part of our five thousand year old culture. We will try it at our own rate and in our own way." The aging regent smiled a little wider.

"If I may, my lady," interjected a thin, elderly man with a thin white beard and mustache, "I would like to address the Sultan's third point."

Ah, him. "Please feel free, Viceroy," Cixi replied, interested to see how he would handle this.

"Thank you. I, sir, am Viceroy Li Hongzhang of Zhili," he said with a sincere bow. "I have read both your letter and the Empress Dowager's reply concerning your request for Uyghur people from Xinjiang province. She is right, your highness, to deny your petition. The people of China, whatever be their faith or language, are not for sale, and will not be given away like alms to a beggar. My lady has extended conditional permission to you to recruit these people for your cause, but this is a generosity that Great Qing has never needed to extend to you. Please keep in mind your position going forward; we all wish for a productive, friendly relationship to emerge here."

Moments later, a curtain rustled behind him as the Emperor came back into the throne room and resumed his seat. "We feel much better," he commented to no one in particular. "Oh, Aunt Cixi, the Arab is here."

Li Hongzhang nodded instructively to the Sultan.

Tianjin, China
"Ho there!" came a voice from the docks. Just down the ladder was a small group of men, most dressed in the elaborate regalia of Chinese officials, some others who were clearly servants, and one who stood out from the crowd, his skin far paler and his suit far more familiar to the Spaniards than those of his party. "Welcome to the Middle Country! My name is Diego Alejandro Varela, these men are my good friends and coworkers, and I am to be your guide and interpreter. Please, good sir, come ashore. You must miss solid ground after your journey."

[Bruke]

Hafun, Majeerteen Sultanate



The men of the Warsangali Sultanate, along with mercenaries from Europe, took the strategic town of Hafun, along with its all-important fort, without causing extensive damage to either. Once properly rested and resupplied, they would attack the city of Bargal. The Sultan's castle was there, and it would make an excellent fortified stronghold. Bargal was the seasonal capital of the Sultanate, but since it was not in season, the Majeerteen Sultan and his army would be at Alula instead. Once Bargal had fallen, they could take the fortified city of Muranyo.

While they swept through the north, their Hawiye allies to the south would crush the Hobyo Sultanate.

After taking Bargal and Muranyo, the Warsangali will attack Alula, the capital city of the Majeerteen. Assuming that the Hobyo Sultanate has also been defeated, the Ethiopian-Somali coalition will control most of Somalia.

[Al-Hind Indus]

Recently, the ruler of Afghania passed away. His son Abdul Rahman Khan,of the Barakzai family has been known for his cruelty. Fleeing the wrath of the Iron Emir,as he is known. Leaders of all tribes in Afghania, except the ruling Barakzai have come for the conference. The Hashimzai,which is the Pashtun branch of the Hashemite family is leading them against the Barakzai faction. The leader of Hashimzai family is Shah-E-Zaman Hashimzai, a battle-seasoned warrior. The Durrani empire, which formerly ruled the Afghania, has been very active in promoting the right of Shah-e-Zaman to rule. The conference would start today in the holy city of Makka. Sultan's brother would be present here. He said that if god willed Success for the Hashimzai, Prince Ghazi, would bestow the title Sultan Shah-e-Zaman,Prince of Princes,Emir of Pashtunistan,Sheikh of Kabul,Wali of Ghazni and Ghor,Aile Uyesi of the Hashemite Sultanate. Prince Ghazi asks every country to help the Afghans get rid of cruel ruler and establish a nation that doesn't kill itself.

Shah-E-Zaman Hashimzai

[Al-Hind Indus]

Sultan: Religion teaches us to bow before none. I hope you understand it. We are slaves to our God, hence we bow to him. We do understand you might not like it. Hence, we bring to you the Maxim Gun. Further the great Inventor Maximoglu too has accompanied us. We hope you would allow him to train your soldiers. We have three requests : Firstly, Establishment of formal relations between the Celestial Empire and us. Secondly, We bring to you the coffee that from beginning was ours. Surely, we know your love for tea. Why not try coffee. Thirdly, a request to provide Uighur troops for our battle in Sudan.
I pause for the Emperor's arrival.
(Image)

The Forbidden Palace, Peking, China
The weapon was an impressive contraption, to be sure, but the brazen breach of conduct by the Sultan was... Well, to call it disappointing implied the expectation that barbarians could be trusted to know how to treat their generous suzerain, but at any rate, the Arab king had judged his importance poorly. Perhaps the one saving grace was that the young Emperor hadn't been there to be personally insulted; perhaps this could be salvaged.

"Esteemed guest," Empress Dowager Cixi addressed the Sultan, a small smile on her face, "to not kowtow before the Son of Heaven, the manifestation of God's will on Earth, is a brave and dangerous decision. This says much about your character and may be judged accordingly." As the interpreter translated her words into Arabic, she continued, "However, our holy sovereign is not currently present to witness this, so you may yet change your mind. As to your tribute, it is quite impressive; we will of course like to speak to the device's inventor, and to see it perform compared to one of our army's Gatling guns. Your coffee, too, is generous, and may find a place in China's wealthy markets, but understand that tea is more than just a drink to our people, it is a deeply ingrained part of our five thousand year old culture. We will try it at our own rate and in our own way." The aging regent smiled a little wider.

"If I may, my lady," interjected a thin, elderly man with a thin white beard and mustache, "I would like to address the Sultan's third point."

Ah, him. "Please feel free, Viceroy," Cixi replied, interested to see how he would handle this.

"Thank you. I, sir, am Viceroy Li Hongzhang of Zhili," he said with a sincere bow. "I have read both your letter and the Empress Dowager's reply concerning your request for Uyghur people from Xinjiang province. She is right, your highness, to deny your petition. The people of China, whatever be their faith or language, are not for sale, and will not be given away like alms to a beggar. My lady has extended conditional permission to you to recruit these people for your cause, but this is a generosity that Great Qing has never needed to extend to you. Please keep in mind your position going forward; we all wish for a productive, friendly relationship to emerge here."

Moments later, a curtain rustled behind him as the Emperor came back into the throne room and resumed his seat. "We feel much better," he commented to no one in particular. "Oh, Aunt Cixi, the Arab is here."

Li Hongzhang nodded instructively to the Sultan.

Tianjin, China
"Ho there!" came a voice from the docks. Just down the ladder was a small group of men, most dressed in the elaborate regalia of Chinese officials, some others who were clearly servants, and one who stood out from the crowd, his skin far paler and his suit far more familiar to the Spaniards than those of his party. "Welcome to the Middle Country! My name is Diego Alejandro Varela, these men are my good friends and coworkers, and I am to be your guide and interpreter. Please, good sir, come ashore. You must miss solid ground after your journey."

Sultan: "Please do know that great times of difficulty have plagued us. We are very weak now. I suggest you leave the topic of bowing down.I apologize to hurt your sentiments and beliefs. If you stay rigid,then the Chinese will face the difficult which Turco-Arabs are facing. I am sorry for my behaviour. But if you understand my situation,you would know that what I am doing is right. I would like to write a letter to the Uighurs telling them not to revolt against Qing. I hope you understand. I have decided to non-agression pact with your nation. Remember Russia is overhead and can eat both of our nations." Further,he looks at a Chinese drugged by Opium, and says:"British are there too."

Emperor, We have great expectations from you, do not disappoint us.

---

Sultan Al-Khataei bin Mehmet Al-Hashmi

[Tysoania]

Tianjin, China
"Ho there!" came a voice from the docks. Just down the ladder was a small group of men, most dressed in the elaborate regalia of Chinese officials, some others who were clearly servants, and one who stood out from the crowd, his skin far paler and his suit far more familiar to the Spaniards than those of his party. "Welcome to the Middle Country! My name is Diego Alejandro Varela, these men are my good friends and coworkers, and I am to be your guide and interpreter. Please, good sir, come ashore. You must miss solid ground after your journey."

"Thank you," Admiral Beranger replied as he walked over to the translator. "I must say, long sea voyages never really agreed with my stomach."

There was a crash and a string of swearing as, behind the admiral, a cart slipped off the hoist and fell to the dock, breaking an axle and nearly crushing a sailor. The admiral spun around and barked a command. The noise stopped immediately. The admiral turned back to face the translator.

"The cart that just fell was the last one, so we should be ready to depart for the Imperial City. It was supposed to carry some treasures from the New World, but I'm sure the Emperor will send for them if they are required. My staff will be joining us as soon as the ships are shut down. Speaking of which, what are the customs for transportation? Actually, what are the main customs we should know?"

[Al-Hind Indus]

Barbarossa's men searched all of Brasil and found only a town. They met the leader of the tribe and communicated with him and told him that the Hashemites have taken their land and they would be paid and given homes in all of the Sultanate. Though initially it was difficult to communicate. Barbarossa's man dicovered the leader of being able to talk in Portuguese,which by God's grace few sailors of the Sultanate could speak.

On the other hand, Piri Reis has somehow completed his map, which he shows to Barbarossa.

The news of a new colony reaches Istanbul

[Al-Hind Indus]

Vilayet of Maldif

Wali: Wali Ahmed bin Ashraf Al-Hashmi
Region: Indian Ocean

---

Vilayet of Brasil

Wali: T.B.A
Region: Americas

---

Vilayet of Zeeland

Wali: T.B.A
Region: Oceania

---

---

Guide: Wali = Baron, Sheikh = Count, Emir = Duke, Sultan = King, Badshah = Emperor

[Asardia]

Tokyo, Japan

As the Royal Philippine Company's ship was tied off to the moorings of the dock, Miguel Salamanca scanned the crowds at the docks for any sign of an official delegation. Unfortunately, he was so fixated on trying to determine the activities of a nearby group of Japanese sailors that he nearly bumped into the lead Japanese delegate as Salamanca disembarked.

Salamanca shook himself, then straightened out his suit and offered his hand. "You must be the Prime Minister of Japan? It is a pleasure to meet you."

The Spanish mission to Japan has arrived in Tokyo.

Prime Minister Ito smiled and shook Salamanca's hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, as well, Mr. Salamanca. Unfortunately, His Heavenly Sovereign wasn't able to greet you here, but I was instructed to bring you to Akasaka Palace, a State Guess House. There, the Emperor will be there to personally talk to you. However, we can still talk on the way there, if you'd like."

The Prime Minister instructed the Imperial Guard to take them to Akasaka Palace to meet Emperor Meiji, who had just finished preparing his statements. He was unclear of what exactly the Royal Philippine Company's intentions were, but he hoped to change that with today's meeting.

[Granluras]

Élyseé Palace, Paris, Imperial French Republic

In his office, President Brogile typed away at his typewriter, drafting an official letter which would soon be sent to the Imperials of China across the planet, a trip which would take the nation telegram routes of the oceans nearly a half-day to send. President Brogile was on his third attempt of a well-written, professional letter and seeing how well he was doing so far he was sure this was going to be the letter he would send.

---

To - Emperor Guangxu From - Office of the President of the Imperial French Republic Subject: Hainan Your Imperial Majesty, Considering the claimlessness of Hainan by both of our nations and usage by it primarily by local French sailors, fishers, and nationals I have a proposition to make. Also considering that Hainan is located close to China proper I believe the following terms are reasonable. For a price of ten billion Francs (~90 billion USD in 2018) France will acquire full sovereignty over Hainan for its use, and as further remuneration for the shifting of sovereignty, China shall be supplied with 15% of all profit made off of French-Hainan fishing, lumbering, and sailing industries for the next decade. I and my delegates, which I can send to Peking for negotiation, are willing to alter these terms to your liking. I hope to hear from you soon after this telegram reaches your Palace. Sincerely, President Brogile of the Imperial French Republic

President Brogile was indeed satisfied. He took the letter off of the typewriter, summoned a footman and gave it to him. This footman then delivered it to the Élyseé Telegram Office, the official communications agency of the President, and the Office sent it across thousands of miles of international waters and cables through the Mediterranean, Red, Arabic, Bengal, and Andaman Seas before reaching French Indochina and being relayed by men over there and finally delivered, after traversing many Chinese cables, to the Forbidden Palace.

[Tysoania]

Prime Minister Ito smiled and shook Salamanca's hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, as well, Mr. Salamanca. Unfortunately, His Heavenly Sovereign wasn't able to greet you here, but I was instructed to bring you to Akasaka Palace, a State Guess House. There, the Emperor will be there to personally talk to you. However, we can still talk on the way there, if you'd like."

The Prime Minister instructed the Imperial Guard to take them to Akasaka Palace to meet Emperor Meiji, who had just finished preparing his statements. He was unclear of what exactly the Royal Philippine Company's intentions were, but he hoped to change that with today's meeting.

As the Company's delegation arrived at Akasaka Palace, Salamanca gaped at the building. He had expected a building somewhat reminiscent of the Filipino-designed buildings in Manila, but the Palace ended that idea. It reminded him of one of the King's residences back in Spain, complete with massive columns and long rows of opulent windows. The main difference was that, unlike the one in Spain, this one wasn't gutted and burning. Miguel supposed that they didn't have any major issues with revolutionaries here. In fact, the nation had so far surprised him with how calm it was. There didn't seem to be any major political violence here, unlike in Spain. Or the rest of Europe, for that matter.

As the delegates arrived at the foot of the entrance, Salamanca leaned over to the Prime Minister.

"Excuse me, but what are the standard protocols when greeting the Emperor or senior officials here?"

[Bruke]

Bargal, Majeerteen Sultanate



After 8 weeks of fighting and heavy casualties, Bargal has fallen. The Majeerteen Sultan and his army had been holed up there, and put up a fierce resistance. The area around the city had been heavily guarded, and in the city itself, enemy soldiers lie in wait to ambush the Ethio-Somali forces. The roads leading to the castle were blocked off by hastily put together barricades, with soldiers armed to the teeth at the other side. In the end, the coalition resorted to an indiscriminate barrage of artillery fire, destroying the castle, and many surrounding homes. Out of a force of 2,000 Ethiopians and Somalis, less than 300 men remained alive. But yet they marched on, to Muranyo.

Muranyo, Majeerteen Sultanate



Thankfully for the coalition forces, the hard-fought victory at Bargal made the rest of the campaign much easier. Muranyo quickly surrendered, and sent tribute of frankincense, myrrh, indigo, and specially made cloth.

Alula, Majeerteen Sultanate



At Alula, the Majeerteen capital, the population seemed to welcome the coming forces with open arms. Whether it was because of the ferocity at Bargal or genuine support for change, there was little to no resistance there.

OOC: Again, ignore the Italian flag.

The Warsangali Sultanate have replaced the Majeerteen as rulers of northern Somalia.

[Asardia]

Prime Minister Ito smiled and shook Salamanca's hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, as well, Mr. Salamanca. Unfortunately, His Heavenly Sovereign wasn't able to greet you here, but I was instructed to bring you to Akasaka Palace, a State Guess House. There, the Emperor will be there to personally talk to you. However, we can still talk on the way there, if you'd like."

The Prime Minister instructed the Imperial Guard to take them to Akasaka Palace to meet Emperor Meiji, who had just finished preparing his statements. He was unclear of what exactly the Royal Philippine Company's intentions were, but he hoped to change that with today's meeting.

As the Company's delegation arrived at Akasaka Palace, Salamanca gaped at the building. He had expected a building somewhat reminiscent of the Filipino-designed buildings in Manila, but the Palace ended that idea. It reminded him of one of the King's residences back in Spain, complete with massive columns and long rows of opulent windows. The main difference was that, unlike the one in Spain, this one wasn't gutted and burning. Miguel supposed that they didn't have any major issues with revolutionaries here. In fact, the nation had so far surprised him with how calm it was. There didn't seem to be any major political violence here, unlike in Spain. Or the rest of Europe, for that matter.

As the delegates arrived at the foot of the entrance, Salamanca leaned over to the Prime Minister.

"Excuse me, but what are the standard protocols when greeting the Emperor or senior officials here?"

The Imperial Guard who stood at the entrance of the building allowed Ito and the Spanish emissaries to pass. As they walked past the garden, Prime Minister Ito replied "The Emperor is known as 'Tennō Heika', or His Majesty the Emperor. You may address the the cabinet members as Excellency, or Kakka.

[Tysoania]

The Imperial Guard who stood at the entrance of the building allowed Ito and the Spanish emissaries to pass. As they walked past the garden, Prime Minister Ito replied "The Emperor is known as 'Tennō Heika', or His Majesty the Emperor. You may address the the cabinet members as Excellency, or Kakka.

"Ah, thank you," Salamanca replied. He straightened up as they approached the building, muttering "Tennō Heika" repeatedly. He'd never met any royalty, Japanese or otherwise, and he wasn't going to blunder through this first interaction.

Salamanca pulled his list of notes out of his pocket and quickly scanned it. Although an aide carried his briefcase with his full notes and charts for the meeting, Salamanca still wanted to ensure he had a full grasp of the wishes of the Royal Philippine Company and the Governor-General of the Spanish East Indies.

...permanent Spanish mission in Japan, permission to establish a regular trade route to Japan, a Japanese mission to Spain, meeting between Alfonso XII and Japanese representatives. He hadn't forgotten anything. In exchange, the Company had given him a large amount of leeway in concessions to Japan, which he planned to use to the fullest extent. Salamanca had always been a fan of the charm offensive, unlike the Americans that had blasted their way into Japanese waters some years earlier. Of course, the American expedition had never been confirmed as anything more than a popular rumour among bored soldiers in various Manila taverns. Regardless, Salamanca hoped to avoid establishing a hostile relationship with Japan.

[Bruke]

Hobyo, Sultanate of Hobyo

The Ethiopian forces, along with the Hawiye militia, have decisively defeated the enemy. The Hobyo men bravely made their last stance, but overwhelming numbers were on the opposing side.

Mogadishu, Sultanate of the Geledi



The Hashemite naval bombardments had weakened the city. And for the final blow, the Ethiopians had brought in their heaviest piece of artillery: the legendary Sebastopol, commissioned by the Emperor Tewodros some 16 years earlier. The great mortar weighs almost 7 tons, and can fire rounds weighing half a ton.



The Ethiopians had dug it out of the ground at Magdala, where it had remained half-buried under the dirt and rock. With the help of some hired foriegn experts, they had managed to get the piece fully operational.

Sebastopol's rounds tore into the city, reducing its remaining fortifications to rubble. For good measure, the Ethiopians had destroyed several nearby forts with the piece.

The city had fallen, and with that, the Geledi were defeated. The remaining enemy forces surrendered or were taken captive as prisoners of war.

Somalia is under control of Ethiopia or its Somali allies. The great mortar Sebastopol is now operational. Ethiopia plans to build several more mortars using the same design.

The Hawiye tribal leader has taken the name Axmed Yusuf Qaasim, and will be proclaimed the Sultan of Somalia, Sheikh of Mogadishu, Ughaz of Zeila, Boqor of Alula, Ruler of the Red Sea, and Prince of Princes. His brother has married the daughter of the Warsangali Sultan and will be made a noble of Somalia.

Colonial Update:

Ethiopia has formed a Sultanate of Somalia, and declared the Sultanate to be its protectorate.

[Halazy]

The Forbidden City, Peking

Sultan: "Please do know that great times of difficulty have plagued us. We are very weak now. I suggest you leave the topic of bowing down.I apologize to hurt your sentiments and beliefs. If you stay rigid,then the Chinese will face the difficult which Turco-Arabs are facing. I am sorry for my behaviour. But if you understand my situation,you would know that what I am doing is right. I would like to write a letter to the Uighurs telling them not to revolt against Qing. I hope you understand. I have decided to non-agression pact with your nation. Remember Russia is overhead and can eat both of our nations." Further,he looks at a Chinese drugged by Opium, and says:"British are there too."

Emperor, We have great expectations from you, do not disappoint us.

Empress Dowager Cixi smiled thinly. "To be sure. If you would be so kind, please present the inventor of this weapon you have brought before the Son of Heaven, if you have indeed brought him."

The young emperor Guangxu perked up at this. If he was honest with himself (and he was, as a general rule), he had to admit the gun sitting not twenty feet away was the coolest thing he'd seen all day, maybe all week. He hoped the Arabs had brought enough bullets for him to really have fun with it.

Meanwhile, at a desk in another wing of the palace...
A cable had just come in from Paris. It seemed reasonable, surprisingly enough, and Foreign Minister Geng Xieren was under strict orders not to interrupt the Emperor until the foreign delegation had been properly received. Ten billion francs was quite the sum for such a small island; no one would miss a few million off the top, the rest could go into the Empress Dowager's industry program, and surely the French could be talked into treating what inhabitants there were with the respect owed to Great Qing. Yes, he thought, this would be fine. Though it would take his lady by surprise, he could still keep his job if he didn't actually sell the place outright. He inked his brush and began to carefully write a response.

To President Brogile of the Imperial French Republic,

I have meticulously considered the merits of your offer, and I believe there are many. Hainan is indeed, from a certain legal standpoint, unclaimed by any country, though its inhabitants are thoroughly Chinese. Overall, then, His Majesty's government considers this proposal to be a fair and viable one, though as you predicted, certain terms do need to be refined. Broadly speaking, His Holy Radiance mandates that all current Chinese inhabitants of Hainan be treated as fully equal citizens (should they choose to remain), as to disrespect the Emperor's subjects is to disrespect Him Himself. Furthermore, I believe it may be necessary to adjust the length of your proposed remuneration period. We would be delighted to receive a French delegation to discuss the terms of this agreement and to eventually sign it under the gaze of Heaven.

Though you undoubtedly need no reminder, please note that the ancient practice of the kowtow is indeed required when meeting the Emperor, and that coming before Him with little or (Heaven forbid) no tribute is much like sailing around the world without bringing food. Again, the good people of France are more than wise enough to understand these simple truths; I simply wish to avoid any possible difficulties.

May you live a hundred more years,
Foreign Minister Geng Xieren

And also in Tianjin...
"I don't think there are any elaborate customs for just getting these carts up to the capital, but once you're in the city proper you might want to start making a parade of it. They love a show there, and looking impressive may help you make your argument." One of the Mandarins with Varela asked him something, to which he responded in Chinese. They exchanged a few more words before he continued, "My colleague here wants to make sure you know about the kowtow. No one can stress enough how much the royals demand it, and don't let the story of that English fellow make you think otherwise. On top of that, never be anything less than deferential while you're in the Emperor's presence, but don't go so far as to lose your dignity. Never, ever compare yourself to him at all, don't speak ill of him, his family, the government, or the Manchus. Otherwise, act like you're meeting the king, the Pope, and the Lord at the same time. They know you're not from around here and don't think of Spain as anything but another faraway tribe with big boats, so they won't have especially high expectations of you." Once more the Mandarins spoke up. "Right, yes, we should get going as soon as we can. The Hashemite sultan is visiting right now, but we should be able to get there as he's leaving, one way or another."

[Atrat]

The newly elected President of the United States, Nathaniel Redford, had long ran on a platform of finishing "manifest destiny" and supply American industry to match that of Europe. The Newport Doctrine was issued by Redford in a speech on Scottish interference on the high seas.
"We have a history of suffering abuse and violation by the Old World on our oceans. The United States will not tolerate the violation of naval and maritime laws in our own backyard. The USS Boston and support ships will sail for the coast of Nova Scotia to demonstrate the might of our resolve.

On the Mexican border, the 8th Federal Cavalry has moved into El Paso to challenge the rising bandit raids into U.S. territory.

[New Castillan Empire]

2 months ago
Malabo, Thomas Jefferson Island, Saint Thomas
It was a regular day in the island. A few natives went out to gather fruit, some children were playing, and animals scavenged on left out food. One of the elders of a nearby tribe sighted a large ship, carrying some soldiers with large sticks, men with papers and quills, and an elegant-looking captain.

The large ship landed on the coast. With it carried men who almost looked exactly like them, except dressing more elegantly, much like the Europeans that passed here before. It turns out the ship was a large carrack, carrying soldiers, families, scientists, and prisoners. Then stepped no other than the man himself; George Carter, Commander of the Fleets and Waves. The tribe watched on as George pulled out a flagpole, with a lowered Liberian flag. the Liberians saluted, holding their heads up high as the flag was raised and George Carter stood infront of it.
"It is my honorable duty, as the Commander of the Fleets and Waves, and as the Head of the Colonization Agency, to welcome each and every one of you as the pioneers and first settlers of the new Liberian colony of Thomas Jefferson Island, in the proposed colonial states of Saint Thomas. For you, the beloved patriots and descendants of those who were once enslaved long ago, we present you the vast and free land you have all desired, all in the beloved fruits of Western society. Natives, if you are here, if you can understand our ways of thinking and speech, please, do not fear us. We are just like you, fellow Africans who were taken from our precious land long ago. God bless you all, and god bless Liberia."
The crowd cheered and clapped, celebrating the powerful speech.
Present Day
House Solitude, Monrovia, Free Liberian Republic,
A messenger had returned into the office to give President Barclay the usual; letters from Georgie, as he nicknamed George Carter. Barclay himself had just gotten back from giving honors to some of the 10,000 Liberian mercenaries that fought for the Caliphate and for their nationality.

Dear Mr. Dacquan,
We have successfully colonized the proposed mainlands of Africa, at last. So far, we are having a blast with the resources being discovered in this new land, and finally taking a breather to colonize the inland with yield resources at the quantities we would never have gotten if it weren't for the ideas we share with the Americans on manifesting our destiny like they are. It's these ideas that will make Liberia prosper like no other African nation. Our will, our democracy, our Westernization. These are key ideas we must keep in order to thrive.

The Liberian Republic will prosper

Signed, George Carter.

[Granluras]

To President Brogile of the Imperial French Republic,

I have meticulously considered the merits of your offer, and I believe there are many. Hainan is indeed, from a certain legal standpoint, unclaimed by any country, though its inhabitants are thoroughly Chinese. Overall, then, His Majesty's government considers this proposal to be a fair and viable one, though as you predicted, certain terms do need to be refined. Broadly speaking, His Holy Radiance mandates that all current Chinese inhabitants of Hainan be treated as fully equal citizens (should they choose to remain), as to disrespect the Emperor's subjects is to disrespect Him Himself. Furthermore, I believe it may be necessary to adjust the length of your proposed remuneration period. We would be delighted to receive a French delegation to discuss the terms of this agreement and to eventually sign it under the gaze of Heaven.

Though you undoubtedly need no reminder, please note that the ancient practice of the kowtow is indeed required when meeting the Emperor, and that coming before Him with little or (Heaven forbid) no tribute is much like sailing around the world without bringing food. Again, the good people of France are more than wise enough to understand these simple truths; I simply wish to avoid any possible difficulties.

May you live a hundred more years,
Foreign Minister Geng Xieren

Élyseé Palace, Paris, Imperial French Republic

President Brogile was in his office again. The Qing Emperor’s Telegram has arrived at noon and the President gladly postponed teatime to respond to it. He sat down at his typewriter and wrote a response for every paragraph.

---

To - Emperor Guangxu From - Office of the President of the Imperial French Republic Re: Hainan Your Imperial Majesty, France understands the needs and interests of a territory’s indigenous, all of the land of the Imperial Republic were not inhabited by Frenchmen before we came you know. We will, as you have requested, treat the Chinamen of Hainan respectfully and with the full rights ay naturalized, legal French citizen has. The renumeration period’s terms are one I think do deserve further discussion and one which should have a half-day interlude between responses, I will send a delegate from Indochina to Peking, and I will make sure they are informed of the practice of kowtow. Also, would a tribute of bullion satisfy you? I hope to get our priorities straight soon. Sincerely, President Brogile of the Imperial French Republic

President Brogile smiles, wrung in his footman, and the process of sending the message across the world started again. At this rate His Imperial Majesty would receive it in the evening and the delegation would arrive at noon the next day.

[Tysoania]

And also in Tianjin...
"I don't think there are any elaborate customs for just getting these carts up to the capital, but once you're in the city proper you might want to start making a parade of it. They love a show there, and looking impressive may help you make your argument." One of the Mandarins with Varela asked him something, to which he responded in Chinese. They exchanged a few more words before he continued, "My colleague here wants to make sure you know about the kowtow. No one can stress enough how much the royals demand it, and don't let the story of that English fellow make you think otherwise. On top of that, never be anything less than deferential while you're in the Emperor's presence, but don't go so far as to lose your dignity. Never, ever compare yourself to him at all, don't speak ill of him, his family, the government, or the Manchus. Otherwise, act like you're meeting the king, the Pope, and the Lord at the same time. They know you're not from around here and don't think of Spain as anything but another faraway tribe with big boats, so they won't have especially high expectations of you." Once more the Mandarins spoke up. "Right, yes, we should get going as soon as we can. The Hashemite sultan is visiting right now, but we should be able to get there as he's leaving, one way or another."

"Understood," the admiral replied and waved his senior officers over from the convoy of carts being organized. As soon as they had huddled around him, he began going over their game plan for their arrival in the city.

"Alright, Valdez, I want you to ensure the carts are in single file with a standard distance between. You'll be at the head of the carts. Muerez, I want your marines marching alongside the carts. Single file, one on each corner. Make sure their uniforms and weapons are spic and span, don't issue any rounds. Also, Muarez, make sure all officers have their swords."

The officers nodded and quickly walked away to where the carts, horses, and marines were all lazily getting into position. Admiral Beranger watched for a moment, then gave an apologetic "excuse me" to the bemused Chinese officials and walked down towards the mess, shouting all the while.

Finally, after a few minutes of shouting and running around, the Spanish mission was ready. Admiral Beranger returned to the group of officials and indicated that they were ready for departure. With that, the Spanish and Chinese delegations set off for the Imperial City and the waiting Emperor.

The admiral must have nodded off at some point. He awoke to the sounds of horses and churning wheels, and quickly stuck his head to the side to assess the state of the group. He could see the Chinese delegation ahead of him, at the head of the group in their own mode of transport. Behind him was the first of the 5 carts, the one carrying the books and New World treasures. The marines were all still in their places, but most of them seemed to be talking with each other over the sound of the clattering carts. Beranger was confident they would end the talk as soon as they arrived in the city. Beside the admiral, Captain Valdez was also napping. The admiral shook Valdez and he awoke with a start, then began apologizing.

"Sorry, sir. I didn't sleep too well on-"

"That's not important. What do you make of the state of the convoy?"

The captain looked towards the front of the group out his own window. After a minute of remaining stock still, he turned to face the admiral.

"We seem to be approaching the city, sir."

The admiral stared at him for a moment, then looked out his own window. There it was, the entrance to the Imperial City, only a few minutes away. He straightened up and began to quickly brush off his uniform. Behind him, the Spanish marines had also quieted.