Age of Imperialism: A Colonization RP IC

[Asardia]

Mexico City

"Yes, the journey was very pleasant, Foreign Minister" Prime Minister Ito said as he took a seat. "Japan is currently in the process of modernization. The current Meiji government has opened the country up for the first time in centuries. We are glad to see that you're one of the countries willing to trade with us. Currently, Japan has been producing a large amount of textiles, specifically cotton and silk, which can be exported here to Mexico. We are going to allow you to trade at the ports of Dejima, Shimizu, Sakoku, and Osaka.

[Arshanid Deccan]

Seljuk Mahal, Isfahan, Persia

Sultan Arslan Khan II, sat in the library reading the book "Islamic Law: Rulings on Warfare and Justification". The Wazir-Azam Shah-E-Zaman Hashimzai delivers reports to him from Major General Ibrahim Turani who is currently supervising the Campaigns in Gulf and Mesopotamia. The reports detail the current position and condition of the Armies on both fronts and recent happenings.

Mesopotamia-Persia Border, Kermanshah

Forces of General Haider Syedi are camped at the border of Diyala and Kermanshah. His army of 80,500 men rest after their long journey from Khuzestan. Reports from the supervising General Ibrahim Turani state that a Regional Warlord Abu Hebheb has made Diyala a base of operations. He has reportedly been attacking Shia pilgrims from Iran and raiding Kurdish villages. His band of militants are very mobile and don't tend to stay in one place for long. According to reports Abu Hebheb's men number to around 5,000 but may number more because of Abu Hebheb's increasing influence in the province. He is also reported on making attempts to capture Baghdad, he has attempted twice and both times he failed. After each failure he went on to raid depending villages. General Haider Syedi has sent messengers to Kurdish and Shia leaders and representatives to ask for their assistance in the war.

Persian Gulf

Prince General Mehmet X Al-Hashmi and his 19,500 men cross the Persian Gulf along with their Russian allies that number 100,000 on steamships. They expect to land in Dubai to meet with the Sheikh Ahmed Bin Hassan who has agreed to help them against the Sheikhs of Al-Buraimi who have been long-time enemies of the Sheikh of Dubai. The fall of the Hasmemite Sultanate caused the tribal war against the two to restart and the recent engagement ended in a stalemate but it left Ahmed Bin Hassan's forces in shambles and it wont be long until they return. Prince General Mehmet X Al-Hashmi made an agreement with the Russian General Pyotr Bagration stating that Russian forces will act as reserve forces and be used as reinforcements at least for the early parts of the campaign.

[Al-Hind Indus]

Ferdinand met the leader of troops sent by the Viceroy Antonio de Mendoza. The troops number 7,000 men. He greeted the Colonel Nicolas Sanchez. Though, the Colonel saluted, Ferdinand put his hand forward to shake hands. Colonel Sanchez was taken aback by Ferdinand’s action. But he shakes his hand with his Commander. The Colonel looked at Ferdinand, his future commander with awe and amazement. The Colonel had been sent to Puerto Rico to crush a rebellion. The rebellion was led by Herminio El-Judio who was leading an active movement against the Spanish. There were rumors that the movement had been supported and by Americans as well as the French. Colonel began asking about the situation in San Juan, when Ferdinand pushed a cup of coffee towards Colonel. Ferdinand had been a lover of coffee and the Government of Spain was working with that of Ethiopia on establishing TCCC too.
After drinking the coffee, Ferdinand takes the Colonel to the training area, where 200 men were training to crush the rebellion. Then Colonel asked Ferdinand whether these were the only men with him. He replied in a harsh tone that these were the only ones under his control,but a few of militias too were helping them. The Colonel was taken aback, and then Ferdinand apologetically, said that those days his temper was high. Herminio El-Judio had caused a menace to the Colonos as well as the Captain-General’s men. He informed the Colonel about the rebels, their followers and their leader. He criticizes Herminio, after every line. He even said that if Herminio had come in front of him, he would have had him slaughtered and fed to every single rebel. After he cooled down, he said he would ask the Viceroy to provide General amnesty to all rebels, after they crush the rebellion except those who were caught. He further would ask the Viceroy to send Herminio El-Judio for trial to Madrid. He firmly said he would want Herminio to be roasted to death in front of general populace, Foreign Minister Mr. Juan Cruz [of whom he had been a die-hard fan of him, even before he had become an FM] and King Albert [whom every soldier admired, respected and loved]. One of the reasons why Ferdinand hated Herminio El-Judio was that he and his followers had burnt sugar plantations [major exporting product], churches and schools. They even burnt Army barracks. This had two effects: Firstly, this had taken a huge toll on the economy of the Island colony; secondly, this was a challenge to Authorities under Ferdinand. It was his duty to work for benefit of his people. Ferdinand had become a moody man, One moment he could be seen laughing heartily, while the next movement he could be seen as red as a tomato with anger. His years to his rise to the post of Captain-General were very tough. His both Saharan parents had died on their voyage from Madrid to Puerto Rico; they had wanted to see their son in-training. Ferdinand wept whenever he remembered about them. He couldn’t even see their last remains, as they had drowned. All but a letter of theirs addressing Ferdinand to always work for betterment of Crown, the Country and its colonies. His parents had been of Spanish-Arabian ancestry. His ancestors had lived in Sahara before the Spaniards arrived. But both of his parents were Spanish nationalists and had lived all their lives in Madrid.

A letter is sent to Viceroy to thank him.
Colonel Sanchez and Ferdinand move to a village in San Juan to prepare for an attack.
The temporary capital is now Mayaguez.
Spanish construction teams are beginning to arrive to build forts to protect San Juan Bay and Mayaguez Bay.

[Tysoania]

July 1886

Havana, Cuba

Viceroy Antonio Mendoza read through the latest reports from Puerto Rico. The rebellion against the Spanish administration in Puerto Rico had intensified, with the rebels attacking Spanish forces and burning plantations and Catholic Churches. Despite the arrival of 7,000 troops on the island to bolster the local militia forces, the captain-general had yet to make any movements against the rebels. Although Puerto Rico was still producing some crops for export to Cuba, the war was beginning to take a toll. Worse, he had recently been asked by a manager of the Royal Cuban Company why sugar shipments to Spain were decreasing; although he had appeased the manager with promises that the disruption was temporary, Mendoza knew that he had to restore sugar exports soon or he would start facing difficult questions from his superiors in Spain.

The viceroy's solution was twofold. First, he would send a request to Mexico to help fill the sugar gap. Although costly, it would allow Spain to maintain its share of the sugar market in Europe. Second, he would formally declare a conflict in Puerto Rico. It would damage the image of the viceroy as a peacekeeper in the eyes of the Crown and the Caribbean nations, but it would also allow him to authorize the deployment of massive forces to Puerto Rico. He had over 100,000 troops in Cuba, and he was itching to provide them with combat experience.

To: Foreign Minister of Mexico
From: A. de Mendoza, Viceroy of the Spanish West Indies

Greetings,

I am writing to you to request a temporary removal of the sugar export tariff and a temporary increase in sugar exports to Cuba. Although we have traditionally been able to meet demands for sugar in Europe, a vicious insurgency in Puerto Rico has temporarily damaged our ability to fulfill these demands. I humbly request that you allow for an increase in sugar exports to allow us to prevent any damage to the local economy and ensure that we prevent this uprising from spreading to Hispaniola or the mainland.

Respectfully,

A. de Mendoza
Viceroy of the Spanish West Indies

Another 5,000 troops have been deployed to P.R. from Cuba.
Spain has requested aid from Mexico in filling the supply gap caused by the insurgency.
Local Spanish officials have welcomed asylum claimants fleeing the collapse of the Hashemite Sultanate and arranged for their settlement in various towns in Spain.
Construction has begun on various fortifications throughout the S.W.I. Completion estimated to be September/October 1886.

[Revlona]

The Heavenly Empire of China

To: Whomever it may concern in Russia
From: Minister of the North, Shao Dylang

I shall make this short and quick, I have shown the Russian letter to the emperor, and with my full agreement he instructed me to write back.

We will never enter into an alliance with you, we will never agree to this border with you, you have wronged us to many times in the past.
You have Stolen our land, killed out people, and commited many more atrocities of the kind.

We are currently in the process of having Northern Manchuria returned to us in peace using the Conference of Versailles, but you could hurry the process. Leave the provinces that you know to be rightfully ours and their will be no need for conflict.

Take those iron tubs you call battleships with you, they would be no use to use anyways.

Signed
Minister of the North
Shao Dylang

Off the Coast of Korea
Ironclad Battleship Dingyuan

"The Emperor wishes to wait, and I am inclined to agree" Said Admiral Tao Zefaun

"Yes, but the longer we wait, the more ships the Russians Build" Said Rear Admiral Dae Xalan

"The Emperor wishes to wait, so we shall wait, but a sortie into Vladivostok would be met well with him should all else fail" Said Tao Zefaun

[Arshanid Deccan]

Industrialization of the New Seljuk Empire reaching new heights
The geologists and stratigraphers sent out by Sultan Kilij Khan have found a site that may potentially be an oil reserve in the province of Khuzestan. The news was sent to Isfahan, and Shehzade Arslan Khan II has ordered for the construction of oil wells and to begin operations to extract oil in the Province, and to continue searching for more reserves. The construction of paved roads and installation of electricity in Major cities has been completed. Constriction of shipyards in the province of Hormozgan and Baluchistan have also been completed, the shipyards have already completed construction of 5 ironclads that will be put to use in the Gulf Campaign. Steam engines have been put to use in factories all around The Empire which are further strengthening the nation's industries from Persian Rug making to Mining to Arms Manufacturing. In Afghanistan mining of copper has begun in Kandahar supporting the transmission of electricity throughout the Empire, mining of gold in Zabur has started the Zabur Gold Rush, mining for iron is taking place in Bamyan, and miners in Panjshir are finding gemstones including emerald. More potential mines are being explored in Afghanistan.

Seljuk Mahal, Isfahan
Shehzade Arslan Khan II ordered for a celebration at the palace when news of the successful Industrialization process of Persia reached him. He has invited his advisers, friends, and other political and business leaders to the Palace. During the party Arslan Khan II met had a great time, he met some people he has not seen for years and he enjoyed the reunion. During which he met with many girls who are daughters of various noblemen and powerful figures in Persia. After the celebration the Wazir Shah-E-Zaman approached Arslan,

"I have to say that there were quite a lot of beautiful women who attended the party Shehzade", he said, "Are you interested in any of them?"

"Ha! no Wazir, I am not interested but thanks for asking you jest surely", Arslan replied

"No sir, I mean it with all due respect, they were very pretty and they seemed to be quite interested in you. They also all belong to noble families. Besides sir, it is high time you choose a spouse for you are now 23, your father got married when he was 18. You are going to need successors for the Dynasty eventually", the Wazir explained

"I understand your concern my loyal Wazir, but currently I am too focused on the matters of the state to pay attention to marriage", Arslan said

"My Shehzade, producing successors is a very important matter of the state", the Wazir said

"If God-Wills it will happen soon, I wish you a peaceful sleep, we have a lot of work to do tomorrow. May God be your protector", Arslan replied, slowly walking away to his room.

[The Federation of Kendor]

Mexico City, Mexico

President Porfirio Diaz was now sitting in his office. He had just read the reports about Mexico's modernization program, ordering two major additions to the modernization program. First, Mexico must hire Western experts from Europe, as they had a lot of knowledge that can help Mexico's modernization, and because the Americans could not be trusted. Second, the upper class of Mexico would be encouraged to send their children to Europe, to receive education there. He soon ordered the appropriate department to send the encouraging message to the upper class to sent their children away to Europe. He also ordered Foreign Minister Ignacio Mariscal to sent messages across the European countries that Mexico needed Western experts on all fields to came to Mexico.

In addition, the modernization program was going well in Mexico, with the installation of electricity, the creation of paved roads, and strengthening of all industries, as was the invasion of Guatemala. By this point, the Mexicans had occupied all the Atlantic Guatemalan coast, as well as most if the Pacific Guatemalan coast. The army was also closing in on the capital of Guatemala, Guatemala City. Finally, the Guatemalan was clearly losing. Their army was starved of foreign support and trade from Mexican blockade, while the people, accepting the Mexican propagandas of their promises, as well as recent efforts by the army to help the Guatemalans reconstruct, in order to increase their reputation, calmed the Guatemalans down, while the Rural Guards used threats, supply destruction, torture, family kidnapping if the guerrillas, and execution to scare the guerilla fighters.

Then, Foreign Minister Mariscal came to President Diaz's office. He gave President Diaz a telegram, which he said was from Spain. President Diaz then opened the telegram, before reading it, realizing that it was about Spain asking Mexico to lift the tariff on agriculture to the Carribeans, since there was a crisis which meant that Spain couldn't export much sugar. President Diaz then said to Foreign Minister Mariscal to wrote a reply.

Foreign Minister Mariscal then wrote the telegram as President Diaz had instructed. Previously, President Diaz thought that he could find a weakness in Spain to further Mexico, only to thought that it would be dangerous for Mexico, because it would cause Mexico to lost an ally and had the former ally turn against Mexico. He then thought that he must accept Spain's demand, in order to kept the friendship with Spain for a long term gain.

The reply was as follow:

To: A. de Mendoza, Viceroy of the Spanish West Indies
From: Ignacio Mariscal, Foreign Minister of Mexico

I am writing this as ordered by President Porfirio Diaz. We accept your request to fill your sugar deficiency, by lifting the export tariff on agricultural products to the Spanish Carribeans, as well as increasing sugar exports to Cuba. Finally, we will give you an offer to help with the defeating the insurgency, by sending 50 of our Rural Guard military police and 500 conscripts, to train them in combat.

Respectfully,

Signed,

Ignacio Mariscal
Foreign Minister of Mexico

Japanese meeting, few months ago

Foreign Minister Mariscal tried to consider what to say, before he answered, "As already said in our telegram, you would be able to trade in the ports mentioned on the telegram. We will accept your textile exports, and in turn, we will export our crops to Japan, such as corn, tomato, coffee, cocoa, etc, as well as exporting silver and copper. We also request for your investors to invest in our industry, especially in the plantations."

[Revlona]

Shanghai
Dao Zexaun, Minister of the Heavenly navy, looked out into the military shipyard in Shanghai.

Their where dozens of ships under construction, ranging from merchant marines to Battleships.

The ones that caught his eye were the three ships that would be launching the next day, they where the HES Peking, the HES Shanghai, and the HES Hong.

They were the same class of ship as the Dingyuan, smaller than some Battleships, they made up for it with the firepower to match any Western battleship.

They were also speedier than their russian counterparts in the Petr Veliky by 2.5 knots.

It would take another three months for the armament and other necessities to be fitted to them.

They would be joined by two other ships of the same class out of Shenzen, who had already launched an who's armament and other needed necessities were already being fitted.

[Dorlominia]

Vladivostok, Primorsky Krai, Russian Far East

With Chinese battleships sighted on Korea, 3 main Russian ironclads, the Petr Veliky, Preryvatel, and the Chayka has all been launched for war conditions, with 5 steam frigates and 6 corvettes with several small gunboats acting as patrol. The waters around Primorsky Krai has been filled with mines in several places, and more naval batteries has been constructed around Vladivostok. The 50,000 Russian troops stationed in North Manchuria has been transferred to Vladivostok, with the borders with China was heavily armed and guarded. The building of a bridge in the Amur River has been postponed, instead several old stone bridges are enlarged with soldier garrisons guard it in large numbers on the Russian side. 90,000 more soldiers has been transferred into Khabarovsk from Novosibirsk using the newly-bulid Trans-Siberian railway. Military depots and factories are being more and more constructed in Khabarovsk with aim to createe as many artilleries as possible. The Anatolian Army Group South has been called from the Middle East, and are being re-organized into the Russian Amur Command, with troops and supplies transported to Northern Manchuria just now. But this takes a lot of time sincee the newly-bulit Trans-Siberian road are now being used to military use, and the Russian Far East prepares for total war.

The Tsesarevich has ordered for land forts, bunkers and trenches being bulit all along the Primorsky Krai and Northern Manchuria. Conscription has also been started, and mass weapon production is now commenced. The supply of grains, wheat and rice are being stored in military depots to prepare for a year-long attack and protection bunkers are being bulid in the cities to protect the citizens. Workers and Engineers, and Western experts was being transferred from the Baltic port of Neva and St Petersburg and Black Sea port of Sevastopol to Vladivostok to help faster building ships. As of now, 10 small gunboats are being produced with several frigates and corvettes in order. The Tsesarevich also ordered for massive military focus being shifted from the Middle East to Russian Far East. The cossacks, huns, Turk and Tatars was also being conscripted into Cossack regiments from the Central Asian steppes with promises of rewards in form of their Uyghur (Xinjiang) lands if Russia ever came to conflict with China. Machine guns, Armored cars, and small firework-like Rockets are being produced en masse for the Russian Army stationed in the Far East.

Russian Imperial Navy drills in Primorsky Krai

Both the Russian Imperial Army and Navy's had commenced drills. While the Navy drills in the waters of Primorsky Krai using all manners of tactic, different kind of beaches (or the open sea) and practiced drill battles against the Army in case of an amphibious landing's, the Army tested drills in the forest and rivers of Siberia, and also the plains on North Manchuria. This is later joined by Cossack cavalry trainings to test different shock tactics, with more and more Turkic tribes and people joining the army's ranks everyday, as well as the Buryat, Manchu and Mongol peopleintent on claiming their homeland back. This is because liberal policies of Alexander III which allowed oblasts (regions) within the Russian Empiree elect it's own governors, create own parliaments and preserve traditions and traditional laws, and also cultures making the policies popular within vast Russian lands with many cultures and traditions. Russia, which had given the Buryat people to retain it's own laws and traditions and elect a representative to the Imperial Parliament, promised the Mongols and Manchu people with the same rights and regards. Combineed with massive propaganda it helped to conscript masses from the Manchurian population. Russia has also bring industrialization to the Far East, something no one had ever done before, and it helps propel the Russian's image by bringing technology and wealth to the Far East.

Russian Army and Cossack Regiment drills in a Siberian river

Meanwhile, a letter is sent to the Chinese government:

Office of the Regent of the Russian Empire

---

TO: To Whomever it may concerns on China
FROM: Winter Palace, Saint Petersburg

Your Highness/Majesty/Exellence/etc.

It is grave news indeed that you have chosen this path with us. Russia did not, ever, want a conflict with its neighbors. We are and empire of peace and freedom, and the Chinese never seems to understand the meaning of that. The Buryat and Manchu people, within our borders, has enjoyed prosperity and peace that thousands of years under Chinese dynasties they never had. You claim these lands to be yours, yet the Qing agreed, and in mutual and equal terms gavee it to us, the reason why is what we never know. Yet the new government of China decides to violate the agreement by asking these lands, rightfully Russian lands to "get back"? Under Russian rule, the Manchu and Buryat people have retained it's traditions and laws, and even sent a representative to the Imperial Parliameent, and by this way they not only have say in their oblast's government but also in the Russian government as a whole and its colonies. And never, forever, has we ever attempted to murder and do genocide or any other horrible atrocities on the Far East people. The Far East people are by law Russians, and we shall do whatever it takes to preserve our sovereignty!

We have sighted Chinese ships, military battleships on Korea. Remember that we have large amount of fleet stationed in the Primorsky Krai, and we are continuing to observe the actions of your fleet. Under no circumstances shuld this fleet or any of it's crew landed or attempting to land at Russian coasts, or trying to provoke Russian agression by firing shots on Russian territory. Any actions regarding this are considered a violation of the traty and an act of war against Russia. But, if they came in peace, they are allowed to dock in vladivostok albeit heavily guarded ny Russian Army and Navy. We have increased our military presence. While not considered an insult this rejection of alliance is something we cannot tolerate, and we promise that Russia will never again responds to any pleads from China in the future, be it economic aid or military or whatever it may concerns. There is one message for your Emperor: back your armies and naval fleets, we will do the same. And cease this border squabbling over years old treaty that is rightfully signed by China and Russia, if you did not want conflict. Russia is peaceful and diplomatic, and we will never do an act of agression against our neighbors. Thank you for considering this.

Regards,
Tsesarevich Nicholas Alexandrovich Romanov, Regent of Russia

[Tysoania]

August 1886

Madrid, Spain

Foreign Minister Juan Cruz read over the latest reports from the colonial administration. The news wasn't good anywhere. The Spanish West Indies was struggling with a vicious insurgency in Puerto Rico, which threatened to damage the Spanish share of the sugarcane export market in the Caribbean. The viceroy there had opted to rely on alternative support instead of requesting more troops, which was nice. Cruz had received, authorized, and sent back the viceroy's telegram requesting permission to deploy Mexican troops into Puerto Rico, as well as use Mexican sugar to close the supply gap. Hopefully, this would strengthen the Spanish relationship with Mexico.

The news from the East Indies was also bad. The Russian and Chinese Empires were engaged in an arms race and territorial clash in Northeast Asia, and although there was a tense peace for now, the viceroy there suggested that it was only a matter of time before the tension became a military conflict, one that would threaten to stabilize all of East Asia.

Domestically, the situation was much better. The new king, Alberto XIII, had ordered the beginning of a massive infrastructure program to allow Spain's agricultural economy to become a leader in exports. As a result, new railroads were under construction that connected the interior to the coastal ports. Although the Crown had been forced to take out loans to pay for the projects, the King and his Minister of Economic Affairs were confident that the increase in exports, and the resulting increase in tariff revenues, would pay back the loans and then some. The King was also interested in establishing an education-for-service scheme of the type that had been rolled out in Hispaniola, and had ordered the construction of a new technical institute in Veracruz. In exchange for free technical training and a guaranteed apprenticeship, students at the institute were to serve 8 years in the Spanish army or navy. The King hoped that it would provide a skilled-worker base for further industrial growth.

All that remained to be addressed, then, were the foreign problems. Cruz decided that, before dedicating Spain to any one side in the Russia-China conflict, he would have to consult with the Japanese Foreign Minister personally. Japan was much closer and therefore more invested in the conflict, so their opinion in the matter was important to Cruz.

As for the West Indies, well, he had already authorized Mexican troops for deployment to Puerto Rico.

To: His Majesty the Emperor of Japan or His Selected Representative
From: J. Cruz, Foreign Minister of Spain

Greetings,

On behalf of His Majesty the King of Spain, Alberto XIII, I would like to request permission for a state visit to the Empire of Japan to discuss the emerging conflict in Northeast Asia. I eagerly await your reply.

Respectfully,

Juan Cruz,
Foreign Minister for Spain

Spain has requested a meeting between the Spanish and Japanese monarchs.
Spain has allowed Mexico to send troops to Puerto Rico.
Spain has begun building railroads to support industrialization.
A prototype schooling-for-service scheme has been implemented in Veracruz.

[Asardia]

Mexico City, Mexico

Japanese meeting, few months ago

Foreign Minister Mariscal tried to consider what to say, before he answered, "As already said in our telegram, you would be able to trade in the ports mentioned on the telegram. We will accept your textile exports, and in turn, we will export our crops to Japan, such as corn, tomato, coffee, cocoa, etc, as well as exporting silver and copper. We also request for your investors to invest in our industry, especially in the plantations."

Mexico City

Prime Minister Ito thought about the proposal for a moment, and responded "Yes, I will instruct the Japanese to invest in your plantations. I'm glad we have come to an agreement, Foreign Minister."

To: His Majesty the Emperor of Japan or His Selected Representative
From: J. Cruz, Foreign Minister of Spain

Greetings,

On behalf of His Majesty the King of Spain, Alberto XIII, I would like to request permission for a state visit to the Empire of Japan to discuss the emerging conflict in Northeast Asia. I eagerly await your reply.

Respectfully,

Juan Cruz,
Foreign Minister for Spain

Spain has requested a meeting between the Spanish and Japanese monarchs.
Spain has allowed Mexico to send troops to Puerto Rico.
Spain has begun building railroads to support industrialization.
A prototype schooling-for-service scheme has been implemented in Veracruz.

Tokyo, Japan

Japanese Foreign Minister Inoue Kaoru was watching the ever growing conflict between the Russians and Chinese very carefully. Japan, although allied with Russia, did not want to see a war take place. Kaoru knew that the Japanese armed forces, despite conscription and large build ups over the past decade, could not yet commit to a war, especially against China. The Foreign Minister, while contemplating what to do, had received a telegram from the Spanish, requesting a state meeting between Japan and Spain to discuss the tensions in Asia.

To: J. Cruz, Foreign Minister of Spain
From: Foreign Minister Inoue Kaoru of Japan

Greetings,

Japan is aware of the tensions between the Russians and Chinese, and the possibility of war. We seek peace in Asia, so we will accept your request for a state meeting to take place here in Tokyo, Japan. We are also asking the Russians and Chinese to come to this state meeting as well, in order to ease tensions

Signed,
Foreign Minister Inoue Kaoru

To: Whomever it may concern in the Russian Empire
From: Foreign Minister Inoue Kaoru of Japan

Greetings,

Japan is aware of the growing conflict between the Russian Empire and China. As you know, Japan is currently in the process of modernizing, so a war with China now would be best avoided. We hope you too, can see that a minor territory dispute should not escalate to a major war. We are hoping you can come here to Tokyo for a state meeting to address the concerns of your empire and the Chinese, where we can hopefully come to an agreement. Do note the Spanish, and possibly the Chinese, are attending.

Signed,
Foreign Minister Inoue Kaoru

To: Whomever it may concern in the Heavenly Empire of China
From: Foreign Minister Inoue Kaoru of Japan

Greetings,

Japan is hosting a conference with the Spanish to ease tensions in Asia between the Russians and your great Empire. We hope that we can solve this territorial dispute peacefully. We invite you to attend the state meeting, along with the Russians, to come to an agreement on the borders of Manchuria.

Signed,
Foreign Minister Inoue Kaoru

[Arshanid Deccan]

To: Whomever it may concern in Russia
From: Major General Ibrahim Turani of the New Seljuk Empire

As an ally of Russia, we concerned about your growing tensions with China. As an ally we will support you to our best extent. Currently we will not be able to help you with military for we have our men in the Arabia and Mesopotamia and our Shehzade does not want to implement large scale conscription for we have already done a small scale conscription for our current campaign. But we will allow your General Pyotr Bagration with his men numbering 100,000 to pass through our borders in order to focus on the Chinese threat in Central Asia for we have grown to trust and befriend him.

Your Ally,
Ibrahim Turani

[Revlona]

Peking

The Industrial sector of Peking was a beautiful sight for Zao Xafong, the Minister of Industry, several dozen factories doing what they were made to do.

But it wasn't enough, and that was being fixed.

Orders were sent around the world, talented men were hired, men who knew the secrets of the factory, and the railroad.

It was a Dream of Zao's to see railroads connect all of china, and he was convinced he could do it.

Maybe not this year, or 5 years from now, but it would happen, china was big after all, and a sleeping giant took time to wake.

To: Who ever it may concern in Japan
From: The Office of the Heavenly Empire
We would be happy to attend this meeting, though we must warn you that if this meeting does not end happily, then war is inevitable.

[Arshanid Deccan]

Mesopotamia, Diyala Province

The Army of Haider Syedi continued to march deeper into the Diyala Province without any resistance. The goal is to capture the city of Baghdad. Haider and his men were being cheered by the residents of the cities of Khanaqin and Jalawla. Haider set up camp in the outskirts of the city of Jalawla to rest. He received a message from his scouts stating that the army of Abu Hebheb is stationed near the city of Sadiyah close to Lake Hamrin. Abu Hebheb's men number close to 7,000 men right now but reinforcements from his allies are joining him and they are to reach a total of 10,000 by dusk. Abu Hebheb's men have attacked villages near Saidyah and the Lake in order loot some food and supplies for the army. Haider's Army was tired becasue they have been marching constantly with only few breaks in Khanaqin and the path to Jalawla last only a couple of hours. Haider would not be able to march onto Sadiyah, his forces were too tired and would not be able fight effectively against Abu Hebheb. Haider has to conserve as many men as possible and avoid unnecessary losses because he has maintain his numbers for most of the campaign. He decided that they will march the next day.

Dubai, South Eastern Arabia

Mehmet Hashmi has arrived in Dubai, he was received by Sheikh Ahmed Bin Hassan. Him and his soldiers rested in the outskirts of the city. Later on Mehmet met with Sheikh Ahmed Bin Hassan to discuss the war against the Sheikhs of Al-Buraimi. The confederacy of Sheikhs of Al-Buraimi have been united under Sheikh Nasir Bin Qais and started attacking the Sheikhs of Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ajman. Bin Qais's forces number around 11,000 men and currently Bin Hassan has only 3,000 men under his command. Ahmed Bin Hassan has invited the Sheikhs or at least representatives of Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Ajman to discuss cooperation against Bin Qais tonight along with Mehmet Hashmi.

[Revlona]

To: Whomever it may Concern in Spain
From: The Office of the Heavenly Emperor
As you have may have noticed, tensions in Asia between the Heavenly Empire of China and the Russian Empire are heating up.
This is do to the Russian Empire holding onto land that they illegally stole from China when we were busy in the 2nd Opium war.

While we do not ask for direct military aid from you, we would be extremely pleased with Spain should it ban Russian trade and harass their trade where you see fit.

Maybe a Naval sortie against Persia would be in the question as well.

Of course this would come with a price, we would be willing to sit down with Spain after hostilities cease to hash out your reward.

[Arshanid Deccan]

Battle of Miqdadiyah
Mesopotamia, Diyala Province

Haider Syedi reached Sadiyah in the afternoon. There was no cheering in this city for of it seemed empty. The people of the city have fled or they are hiding, avoiding the impending violence that will befall the city very soon. Haider began preparations for the battle but then a messenger delivered to him a report from his scouts. Abu Hebheb has started retreated to Miqdadiyah, a city located on the other side of the Lake Hamrin. Abu Hebheb's army now numbers to around 12,000 men, he has gone to meet his allies in Miqdadiyah to integrate their men into his army. Haider Syedi ordered his men to stop setting up and to inform any civilians that a battle will not take place. He knew what Abu Hebheb was doing. He was slowly retreating and gaining more forces to fight the Seljuk Army once his men reached a sufficient number. Haider was not going to let that happen. He ordered the Imperial Cavalry numbering 15,000 horses and his Afghan Hillmen numbering 7,500 horses to go ahead and position themselves at the village of Abu Sayda to stop Abu Hebheb from further retreating. Haider ordered the rest of his men to begin marching again with the goal of reaching the village of Sinsil.

After 5 hours of marching. Haider finally reached Sinsil. He let his men rest for a couple of hours while he made battle plans with his commanders. He sent a message to the cavalry force in Abu Sayda detailing the plans and after some preparations him and his men marched towards Miqdadiyah. Abu Hebheb's scouts informed him about the approaching Seljuk Army, and so he sent messages to other Warlords that may be interested in joining him and began retreating to Al-Wajihiya. But halfway in the retreat to Al-Wajihiya, Abu Hebheb's army was stopped by Seljuk Cavalrymen. Abu Hebheb after engaging for a little while began retreating back to Miqdadiyah. When Abu Hebheb under hot pursuit finally came into the proximity of Miqdadiyah, to his surprise the Seljuk Infantry was already there on the outskirts and opened fire on his forces. Abu Hebheb was killed during the volley and his army disbanded and fled. The Seljuk Army suffered a loss of 5,500 men out of 80,500, while Abu Hebheb's army was completely destroyed. The Seljuk Army rested in Miqdadiyah, next they will march to Baqubah in their path to Baghdad.

Battle of Lahbab
Dubai, South Eastern Arabia

Mehmet Hashmi attended the meeting of Sheikhs. Ahmed Bin Hassan of Dubai and the other Sheikhs of Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ajman met in Dubai to discuss the threat of Sheikh Nasir Bin Qais who was currently stationed with his army in Nazwa. Bin Qais has been successful at defeating the Gulf Sheikhs and he has gone way beyond the traditional borders of the two factions. Mehmet's men guarded the tent while meeting was taking place and his cavalry was scouting the area. Bin Qais was not far, he could attack whenever he wants. Ahmed Bin Hassan has 3,000 men under his command, the other Sheikhs agreed to participate in the expedition and pitched in their forces as well. Sharjah entered the alliance with 2,000 infantry men, Abu Dhabi entered with 1,000 camel cavalrymen, and Ajman entered with 1,000 infantry men. Together the Sheikhs made a total of 7,000 men who will work alongside 19,500 Seljuk soldiers making an overall total of 26,500 men. The next day the Mehmet along with Bin Hassan and their soldiers met with the other Sheikhs and their soldiers at the village of Al-Awir, making battle plans. Reports have come in that Bin Qais is moving closer with his army and that he has taken the village of Lahbab with an army 13,000 strong. Mehmet decided that it is best to start moving to liberate Lahbab before Bin Qais makes any further advancements.

After marching for a few hours Mehmet and his men, along with the Sheikhs finally reached Lahbab. Bin Qais's army was still stationed there, he probably did not expect for the Seljuk's to reach the village this early. Mehmet positioned his forces according to the battle plan and ordered for the plan to be implemented. The Battle lasted 3 hours, and Mehmet emerged victorious. This was Bin Qais's first military defeat, the village was liberated. Bin Qais did not expect the enemy to react so quickly, his scouts were sent out too late, for by the time he sent them out Mehmet already began his attack. Because of the element of surprise, Mehmet lost minimal forces during the engagement. Mehmet lost a total of 500 men, the allied Sheikhs lost a total of 1,000 men, while Bin Qais suffered the loss of 4,000 men. Bin Qais retreated with 9,000 men to Al Madam. Mehmet and the Sheikhs continued marching, taking back lost territory up till Nazwa before resting.

[The Verusian Union]

Stockholm Palace, Scandinavia

King Alexander sends 10,000 land troops into northern Finland for their quarterly training exercises to improve their attacking maneuvers in the high mountainous terrain and low-lands. All under the command of General Christian Federick and Colonel Johannes K. Sejersted, they leave Sweden. "All of the kingdoms of our union... Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, as well as our colonies will have to implement a quarterly training programme for their troops," said General Christian Federick, head of the military of Scandinavia.

Greater North America, Uncolonized Territory

Alexander's Norwegian Navy that left the port of the city of Oslo arrives in an uncolonized area of greater North America. Geologist Michel Anderson starts to document information of what he has since, whilst the naval land units begin to go further inland. They are surprised when they have reached around 60 miles inland, a tribe of Native Americans, the Beothuk Indians. Heavily armed, the Beothuk attack the Norwegians, but Admiral Johanson orders his 46 men to retreat and to not shoot any of the natives.

[The Federation of Kendor]

Mexico

Some of the Western experts had arrived, with some from Spain. Most of these experts were military, scientific, and industrial experts, to help with the modernization of Mexico. They started helping the Mexicans with suggestions on how to modernize Mexico, with Western technologies, as well as industrial methods. The military experts, meanwhile, told the Mexicans how to develop their military and train conscripts and commanders in Western strategy and tactics.

Meanwhile, the electrification of Mexico was continued. The important places, as well as rich houses in Mexico City had now been electrified, so the work was continued to Tijuana. The Japanese investors had also arrived, with most of them investing in Mexican plantations that were not owned by anyone yet, though few also invested in other types of business, like the growing Mexican industry and the silver mines. More schools had also been constructed, providing education to every Mexicans, and thus, more skilled workers. The Mexican government also started supporting the Catholic Church, providing money to them so they could construct new churches and did their charity programs, both of Healthcare and education, to the disadvantaged Mexicans, like the poor and the disabled.

In the military, the industry that supplemented the military kept growing, thanks to the modernization and invasion of Guatemala. More ammunitions were being produced, as were supplies and equipments. The shipyards were also improved, with the Tijuana and Oaxaca shipyards producing several small ships, as well as an ironclad in Tijuana. The military itself was now also under training, being helped by Western military experts. The conscripts would be trained for 14 weeks before they could got full service in the military, though some had to be sent to Guatemala first, so they could replenish the killed troops. Also, as mentioned earlier, 500 were trained, by being sent into Puerto Rico to help crush the insurgency there.

Meanwhile, in Guatemala, the troops kept advancing quickly, capturing all of the Guatemalan Pacific Coast, as well as most of the Guatemalan interior, with the Mexican troops deciding to go through all of Guatemala's major cities, including that east of the capital, to weaken Guatemala and siege the capital. With the new influx of soldiers and equipments, such as 300 conscripts, 50 cavalries, 20 mercenaries, and 10 artillery pieces, as well as the army's propaganda and help of the locals and terror tactics on the guerrillas, the Guatemalan resistance was weakening. Indeed, 309 infantries and 69 cavalries were killed, but they were winning.

[Bruke]

the Royal Palace; Mekelle, Ethiopia



Ras Araya paced throughout the palace grounds, with the Tsehafi Taezaz (royal recordkeeper and scribe) following closely behind him. Just as his father had departed for France, two letters had come in from abroad. Each was from a European power, and each carried with it the promise of investment and support for the Empire.

To: Whom It May Concern, Ethiopia
From: J. Cruz, Foreign Minister of Spain

Greetings,

I hope this telegram finds you in good health. On behalf of Alberto XIII, King of Spain, I am extending a request to establish a joint Spain-Ethiopia coffee trading company. This company would allow for the centralization of our respective coffee supply chains and the use of both Spanish and Ethiopian corporate infrastructure to secure lower prices and higher profits for our national governments.

Respectfully,

Juan Cruz,
Foreign Minister of Spain

Office of the Regent of the Russian Empire

---

FROM: Winter Palace, Saint Petersburg
TO: His Imperial Majesty Yohannes IV of Ethiopia

Your Majesty,
With the opening of the Russian port in Zanzibar, we would like to estabilish sea route and trade between Zanzibar and Ethiopia. This would open Russian and Ethiopian ports for commerce between two regions, and we also propose a military alliance between Russian and Ethiopian Navy. Russia currently has 40 ships patrolling the seas around Zanzibar lately. We also is interested to invest in Ethiopia regarding the building of railways, factories, and shipyards. We also want to estabilish trade in coffee between Russia and Ethiopia. It would be a joint share company between the two states that we could use to monopolize agriculture trade in East Africa. It would trade in livestocks, agriculture such as coffee, sugarcane and palm oil, fisheries, woods and woodworks from Russia and Ethiopia, gold, jewelries and gems from both nations, and transit trade between Egypt, Arabia, Persia and India to the rest of Africa (our allies in the Seljuk Empire would be excluded from this monopoly). It would be called East Africa Trade Corporation and we will retain monopoly along the Horn of Africa to Zanzibar. This company will also form a conglomerate of traders under its wing and be armed with vessels and men supplied from Russia to protect its interest, also to train paramilitary groups to serve thee company's interest. We also had put interest on the growing Orthodox, or Coptic Christianity in Ethiopia and a representative from the Russian Orthodox Church will be sent to observe. We would wait your reply on this subject.

Regards,
Tsesarevich Nicholas Alexandrovich Romanov, Regent of Russia

In the palace library was a tome about the politics and history of European countries, which was painstakingly translated from French into Amharic by Ras Nathaniel and Pierre Massoit. Though the book was nearly 20 years old, it contained detailed commentaries on each nation's mindset, if one could call it that, in dealing with the rest of the world.

He combed through the pages of the text, looking for something, anything, that could help him decide how to respond.

Certainly, Araya thought, Spain could be a valuable partner for Ethiopia. After all, they were still a European power, despite the loss of much of its empire.

The proposed trading company seemed like a good idea, though in his ignorance he was not sure of its prospects for success. Ethiopia had next to no infastructure, and lacked the technology and skilled labor needed to process coffee on an industrial scale. Spain, on the other hand, had begun industrializing and had a well-developed coffee industry in its colonies, as well as experience with shipping the product across the ocean.

The offer from Russia was another matter altogether. The Emperor knew of Nikolay Ivanovitch Achinov, an adventurer from the city of Penza, who had visited the region two years earlier. He came to establish Russian ties with the only Orthodox nation in Africa, and the Emperor welcomed him to Ethiopia.

From what Ras Araya had heard from his father, Russia seemed like a natural ally. But how would he balance what the Spanish had offered with what the Russians had offered? He did not want to cause offense to either by rejecting outright what they had proposed, but he also did not want to promise something that the nation was incapable of doing.

He sat down in his father's private chamber to write out his replies, and dictated them to a court official, a friend of Pierre Massoit's, who was fluent in French.

To the Czar of Russia, greetings.

I, Araya, in the stead of my father the Emperor, am writing to you to in response to your proposals on military, economic and religious ties.

Seeing as Ethiopian traders have had a long-standing commercial relationship with Zanzibar and its surrounding cities, we are pleased to open up our ports to Russian commerce from Zanzibar, and from you country as well. As for your proposal regarding a military alliance, we are eager to accept, but must advise you of the state of our forces. Our country has no navy whatsoever, and our army has suffers from a lack of formal structure, modern weapons and training. To this end, we would ask that you send military advisors and weapons.

Regarding investment, there are several places that may be of interest to you. The port of Massawa, in northern Ethiopia, has an excellent harbor, and would be a good site to build a shipyard. Regarding factories, Massawa and Asseb, another port in the north, would be natural places to establish saltworks. The kingdom of Gojjam, which already has active gold mines, also has some deposits of iron ore. If mines and a railway could be constructed, the town of Bichena could be a place to establish a small ironworks. The town of Adama, in Oromia, could be the site of a textile mill, because the surrounding region has the potential for growing cotton. Beyond that, our country currently lacks the natural resources for other heavy industry. With your investment, however, more resources, and thus more industry, could be developed.

Your offer of creating a East Africa Trading company is welcomed, although we hesitate to risk cutting into the business of our ally and neighbor, the Sultanate of Somalia. Their merchants have plied their wares across the Indian Ocean for centuries, as part of the trade in that region. The trading company Kaptallah, which has been re-established, is now doing brisk business with the Seljuk Empire, India, and Arabia. Our request, then, if it is possible, is that our Somali friends be allowed to join this proposed venture.

As for the sending of men and vessels from Russia, this is welcome though we wish to decrease such an expense on your part as much as possible. The Somalis have much experience in building traditional wooden vessels, which they use in the transport of goods to Arabia. They, too, can provide skilled sailors under arms, and with your investment in some modern shipyards can also build the required vessels.

This business of coffee does give us pause. As far as we know, we do not know of coffee being grown in your country. We would require a partner with a suitable climate and experience in its production, and it is the same with palm oil and sugar cane. We hope this does not discourage you though, from investing in fisheries, woodworks, gems, and other resources.

The Church would welcome any clergymen from your country who wish to know more about the Orthodox faith in Ethiopia. Send such men to Gondar, and they will be glad to have them.

May God keep you and your country in His care. It is good to know that another Christian nation, and an Orthodox one at that, has established itself in the region.

Araya Selassie Yohannes, King of Tigray, Wollo, Begemder and Dembiya, in the name of His Imperial Majesty Yohannes IV, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, King of Zion, King of Kings of Ethiopia and Elect of God

To the Spanish Foreign Minster, greetings.

I, Araya, in the stead of my father the Emperor, am writing to you to in response to your proposal on a coffee trading company. This proposal is most pleasing to us, though we must advise you that the country lacks infrastructure and processing capabilities. To alleviate this, it would be most fruitful to focus on the city of Harar and the surrounding region. There are already coffee farms in that region, and with the building of a railway from that city to the port of Tadjoura, exports to Europe are possible. The Governor of Harar has informed me of a foreigner, an English trader by the name of Arthur Rimbaud, who has made it his business to promote the sale of coffee abroad. When your agents arrive in the city, speak with him. I am sure he and your men together can establish many coffee plantations in that area, and turn it into a major center of coffee production. In particular, the Governor tells me that Rimbaud is trying to establish a plant for the processing of coffee beans. With your help, I am confident that this can become a reality.

We are grateful for your offer, and will do anything we can to hasten its coming to fruition.

Araya Selassie Yohannes, King of Tigray, Wollo, Begemder and Dembiya, in the name of His Imperial Majesty Yohannes IV, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, King of Zion, King of Kings of Ethiopia and Elect of God

Ras Araya turned to the Tsehafi Taezaz and explained that he wanted the letters sent as soon as possible. The Tsehafi Taezaz bowed his head, noted the order in his papers, and handed it to a servant standing outside the room.

[The Federation of Kendor]

Mexico City, Mexico

President Porfirio Diaz was now sitting in his office. He had just read reports about the development of Mexico, as well as the invasion on Guatemala. All of it were going well, which made President Diaz happy. It was a great thing, as it showed that Mexico was strengthening, as he wanted.

Recently, however, he decided that Mexico must start a friendship with other nations across the world. A week ago, he started to read about the potential nations that he wanted Mexico to start a relationship with, Grenada, The Scandinavian Union, Ethiopia, China, and the Seljuk Sultanate. After a lot of reading about the history of all those nations, he made a choice. He would start a relationship with all of them.

Now, he went to the office of the Foreign Minister of Mexico, Ignacio Mariscal. He ordered Mariscal to wrote a telegram to each of the nations that he wanted to start a relationship with, Grenada, the Scandinavian Union, Ethiopia, China, and the Seljuk Sultanate. The telegrams had the same offer as the deal to Spain and Japan, to trade with Mexico and invest in it, as well as establishing an embassy and consulate in Mexico. After Mariscal finished writing all of those telegrams, they were sent to it's respective receiver.

[Bruke]

the Royal Palace, Mekelle, Ethiopia

Mexico City, Mexico

President Porfirio Diaz was now sitting in his office. He had just read reports about the development of Mexico, as well as the invasion on Guatemala. All of it were going well, which made President Diaz happy. It was a great thing, as it showed that Mexico was strengthening, as he wanted.

Recently, however, he decided that Mexico must start a friendship with other nations across the world. A week ago, he started to read about the potential nations that he wanted Mexico to start a relationship with, Grenada, The Scandinavian Union, Ethiopia, China, and the Seljuk Sultanate. After a lot of reading about the history of all those nations, he made a choice. He would start a relationship with all of them.

Now, he went to the office of the Foreign Minister of Mexico, Ignacio Mariscal. He ordered Mariscal to wrote a telegram to each of the nations that he wanted to start a relationship with, Grenada, the Scandinavian Union, Ethiopia, China, and the Seljuk Sultanate. The telegrams had the same offer as the deal to Spain and Japan, to trade with Mexico and invest in it, as well as establishing an embassy and consulate in Mexico. After Mariscal finished writing all of those telegrams, they were sent to it's respective receiver.

Late in the night, Ras Araya was awoked by a servant with a message. When the Ras read it, his eyes widened in surprise. It was from Mexico? He immediately sat down and called for the Tsehafi Taezaz and the noble who knew French.

To the President of Mexico, greetings.

I, Araya, in the stead of my father the Emperor, am writing to you to in response to your proposal on investment in your country and diplomatic relations. While we are not rich enough to provide much investment in your country, we may have an opportunity for you that makes up for this. When the opportunity becomes available, we will tell you shortly.

As for diplomatic relations, we would be happy to establish ties. We will send an ambassador to Mexico City, and you may send an ambassador to Mekelle.

We would also be very pleased if you could send us samples of the tobacco plant, to see if it can grow in our own country.

Araya Selassie Yohannes, King of Tigray, Wollo, Begemder and Dembiya, in the name of His Imperial Majesty Yohannes IV, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, King of Zion, King of Kings of Ethiopia and Elect of God

When it was finished, the letter was taken away to be sent off for delivery.

[The Federation of Kendor]

National Place, Mexico City, Mexico

Few weeks later, the ship that carried the letter arrived in Oaxaca. Then, for several days, the letter was brought to the National Palace in Mexico City from the Oaxaca Port. After it was delivered, a guard brought the telegram to Foreign Minister Ignacio Mariscal. Mariscal then brought the telegram to President Porfirio Diaz, who read it, before ordering Foreign Minister Mariscal to wrote a response, based on what he had read.

The message was as follow:

From: Ignacio Mariscal, Foreign Minster of Mexico
To: Araya Selassie Yohannes of Ethiopia

We accept your offer to establish an embassy. As you said before, we will send an ambassador to Mekelle. As for the investments, let us know when you have the opportunity and we will help you in turn. As for your request of getting a sample of our tobacco plant, we will send ten tobacco plants for you to sample.

We also know that your nation is in a good diplomatical relation with Spain. We also have a good relationship with Spain. We also heard rumors that you plan to establish a coffee network with Spain. We can cooperate on this, as we grow coffee beans here, as well as other cash crops.

Respectfully,

Signed,

Ignacio Mariscal,
Foreign Minister of Mexico

[Bruke]

National Place, Mexico City, Mexico

Few weeks later, the ship that carried the letter arrived in Oaxaca. Then, for several days, the letter was brought to the National Palace in Mexico City from the Oaxaca Port. After it was delivered, a guard brought the telegram to Foreign Minister Ignacio Mariscal. Mariscal then brought the telegram to President Porfirio Diaz, who read it, before ordering Foreign Minister Mariscal to wrote a response, based on what he had read.

The message was as follow:

From: Ignacio Mariscal, Foreign Minster of Mexico
To: Araya Selassie Yohannes of Ethiopia

We accept your offer to establish an embassy. As you said before, we will send an ambassador to Mekelle. As for the investments, let us know when you have the opportunity and we will help you in turn. As for your request of getting a sample of our tobacco plant, we will send ten tobacco plants for you to sample.

We also know that your nation is in a good diplomatical relation with Spain. We also have a good relationship with Spain. We also heard rumors that you plan to establish a coffee network with Spain. We can cooperate on this, as we grow coffee beans here, as well as other cash crops.

Respectfully,

Signed,

Ignacio Mariscal,
Foreign Minister of Mexico

the Royal Palace, Mekelle, Ethiopia

Late in the night, Ras Araya was awoken by a servant with yet another message from Mexico. Araya stayed up to write his reply.

To the President of Mexico, greetings.

When I spoke of an opportunity, I was referring to the coffee company to be established with the help of Spain. We thank for your help in this matter, together we small scale producers can compete with the larger coffee exporting countries.

Araya Selassie Yohannes, King of Tigray, Wollo, Begemder and Dembiya, in the name of His Imperial Majesty Yohannes IV, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, King of Zion, King of Kings of Ethiopia and Elect of God

When it was finished, the letter was taken away to be sent off for delivery.

[Revlona]

To: Whomever it may concern in Mexico
From: The Office of the Heavenly Emperor
We, the Heavenly Empire of china would be happy to widen trade and diplomatic relations.

The Opening of a Mexican Embassy in Peking and a Chinese embassy in Mexico city would be extremely good for relations.

We hope you get back to us quick.

[The Federation of Kendor]

To: Whomever it may concern in Mexico
From: The Office of the Heavenly Emperor
We, the Heavenly Empire of china would be happy to widen trade and diplomatic relations.

The Opening of a Mexican Embassy in Peking and a Chinese embassy in Mexico city would be extremely good for relations.

We hope you get back to us quick.

Mexico City, Mexico

As always, the message went into President Porfirio Diaz, after it was shipped from the Pacific Ocean into Mexico, where it was then passed to the National Palace in Mexico City. Foreign Minister Ignacio Mariscal read it first, though, before giving it to President Diaz. President Diaz then had Foreign Minister Mariscal wrote a response.

To: The Office of the Heavenly Emperor
From: Ignacio Mariscal, Foreign Minister of Mexico

We are writing back this message as a response to your offer. We accept your offer for the establishment of a Mexican embassy in Peking, and a Chinese embassy in Mexico City. We will send an ambassador to Peking. In addition, you can also establish a consulate in Tijuana.

As for our trade, we can trade you silver, cocoa, coffee beans, tobacco, corns, and tomatoes. We hope that you can respond to our message.

Respectfully,

Signed,

Ignacio Mariscal,
Foreign Minister of Mexico

Meanwhile, for the Ethiopian message, Foreign Minister Mariscal wrote back a response, saying what Mexico had for it's export to Ethiopia, such as silver, cocoa, coffee, tobacco, tomato, corn, etc, before asking what Ethiopia had as an import to Mexico. He also said the ports where Ethiopia can trade in Mexico, in the ports of Veracruz, Oaxaca, and other major eastern Mexican coast cities. Also, few months ago, the meeting with Japan was concluded, after Mariscal asked Ito, Japan's Foreign Minster, about Japan's current economic conditions, as well as some history about Japan, while telling Ito Mexico's own economic state and history.