1870-1920 Era War: A Twist (IC)

[The 2nd Republic of the South]

Shievak Coast

10 miles from the Arengin Fleet, the Shievak Armada arrived and opened fire. The guns could be heard on the coast, 17 miles away, they were so loud. Shells rained down on an Arengin force that was neither expecting nor prepared for the attack.

On land, the Shievak Army had arrived. A massive force, far outnumbering the Arengin Marines, blocked the route North. Howitzers were pulled into position and loaded with shrapnel shell. Infantry and cavalry made ready to attack, fixing bayonets to rifles and loading pistol, stocking up on ammunition and grenades.

An hour later the barrage began. Thousands of guns opened fire, raining hell down upon the Arengin Marines.

Shi Lo Town

The town of Shi Lo was the town that was directly in front of the enemy forces that began to arrive. At first the enemy forces remained back as the Arenginian marines began to prepare defenses. The marines set up light cannons up on the walls and some at the wall sectors that had been breached. The Arenginians also readied some machine guns tehy had and were ready for an attack.

Then suddenly the sounds of falling shells were heard and the towns were being bombarded. The shells made shrapnel fly across the area as Arenginians and Shievakan civilians ran for cover. Many Arenginians died from the explosions and many more were wounded by shrapnel. Many civilians also died, having their homes destroyed by their own home army.

The remaining Arenginians went back to defenses. Ready to fight despite the many loses. The medics began to drag the wounded away.

Out on Open sea

The enemy navy inflicted heavy damage on the surprised Arenginian navy. Several destroyers and some dreadnoughts received direct hits on the hulls. One destroyer began to sink. The dreadnoughts began to set into battle formation. Destroyers and frigates began to sail in the enemies direction. The Arenginian navy began to frantically fire, missing most shots as they tried to get back into organization. The Shievakans kept firing and hitting many of the ships.



Admiral Makarovich from the lower deck of his dreadnought then began to send orders to all fleets to disperse and make it harder for the Shievakans to hit them. The fleets began to disperse in small groups. 2 destroyers had been sunk and one frigate was being destroyed.

The dreadnoughst and destroyers began to take their time as the crews aimed their gunsm still taking fire but trying to get a good shoot. The mist of the morning began to dicipate and the Shievakans were visible as the smoke of their guns also cleared.



"FIRE" Was scramed on all ships.

The Arenginians fleets fired a massive barrage of shells on the Shievakan vessels. They barrage hit many of the Shievakan ships that began to take fumes. The tow navies began to engage in several firing back and forth.

Shi-Lo Town
The Shievak troops charged the Arengin positions, attacking with complete disregard for casualties. They had heavily outnumbered the Marines before the barrage and had an even greater measure of superiority now that the barrage was completed. The soldiers advanced, firing rifles and throwing grenades into Arengin trenches before entering hand to hand combat with bayonets, knives, and clubs.

Naval Engagement
The Shievak fleet had more ships than the Arengins did but that also meant there were more targets. Torpedoes, shells, and machine gun bullets ripped into Arengin ships, though it was too late to save two battleships and a battlecruiser, as well as several destroyers and light cruisers.

[Rannoria]

Aerial Success!

Finally, the Rannorians have managed to construct airplanes. It has been a process that was delayed time and time and over again, but they finally have the blueprints to build an aerial fleet.

The planes are the M.1910 Rake (based off a modified Deperdussin 1910 monoplane so that it can hold weapons) along with the Standard Mark.1 (based off the German Grade monoplane).

As of currently, Rannoria has entered an isolation never known to any Rannorian of this age before, but rumors are spreading that the Yaidom may bring Rannoria out of isolation after 20 years of inner conflict and silence.

[The Manticoran Empire]

Aerial Success!

Finally, the Rannorians have managed to construct airplanes. It has been a process that was delayed time and time and over again, but they finally have the blueprints to build an aerial fleet.

The planes are the M.1910 Rake (based off a modified Deperdussin 1910 monoplane so that it can hold weapons) along with the Standard Mark.1 (based off the German Grade monoplane).

As of currently, Rannoria has entered an isolation never known to any Rannorian of this age before, but rumors are spreading that the Yaidom may bring Rannoria out of isolation after 20 years of inner conflict and silence.

To: Rannorian Government
From: Grayman-Manticoran Foreign Ministry

The Empire wishes to invite you to discuss greater political and economic cooperation in Vicuna. Additionally, we would like to inquire as to our offer to purchase the colony of Barrum.

Meanwhile, the Army planned to put a new heavy tank into production. It weighed 45 tons and would be armed with an 85mm main gun and two 7.92mm machine guns. The biggest change, however, would be its armor. Sloped front, side, and rear armor would greatly increase the overall thickness of the armor. The front would be 80mm, the sides would be 50mm, and the rear would be 40mm. Turret armor would 100mm at the front, 45mm at the sides and rear, 16mm on the top, with a mantlet of 100mm around the gun.

The Navy was also developing new vessels. In an effort to improve their own aviation projection, they were developing their own sea-going aircraft carrier. The design called for a vessel that was 262 meters long, 31 meters wide, and had a draught of 8 meters. Designers claimed it would be able to carry 43 aircraft when completed and reach speeds of 35 knots.

[The Traansval]

The Staats Kongres Hall
Capital Hill, Pretoria
Gauteng Staat
The Federal Republic of The Traansval

June 6th, 1910

The Kongres hall was abuzz with activity, Staatsmen milled about getting to their seats while a veritable army of reporters and newspaper men were crowded around the hall attempting to gain a good view of the proceedings. A hush fell over the hall as 4 Republikeins Gardesmaans stepped out from the set of two large oak doors, turning on their heels to face inward towards each other. Two more Garde's walked past the first four and began to clear a path through the sea of humanity.

With the path cleared, one of the men came up to the door and knocked twice, before joining the rest of his fellow Garde'smaans on the sidelines. The doors opened, and a man in a charcoal suit and a sash of Orange, Green, and Blue walked out flanked by two Gardesmaans. The man in such regal attire slowly made his way to the podium, while the reporters started to loose their fucking minds and were jumping up and down trying to get a picture of the man for their respective newspapers.

The man finally made it to the small birch podium, a spotlight illuminating him in the relatively dark building. A shiny pin could be seen in his right breast, a small metal Boar, the symbol of the Republikein Party, who chose him to run for the office of Verkozen Officiele, leader of the mighty Traansval. And he had won.

He, Fredrick Hardglass, had won the election.

Hardglass was quite surprised by this victory, but he could understand it. Hardglass started out life in the Traansval after immigrating from the Manticoran Empire during the Kendi Administration. He and his family had come after their small farm had failed following a poor harvest when it was discovered most if not all of the crops were rotten or eaten away by insects. The Hardglass family then boarded a steamer with what money that had left and came to The Traansval, where they worked as Sharecroppers for a local Agriculture Tycoon. Their farm may have been small, and the man who owned it quite greedy (some times taking a bit more than the agreed upon amount of his cut), but the fertile waters and soil of the Nile River had brought the family new wealth (By wealth, i mean their no longer poor)

At age 18, Hardglass had finished his mandatory education, and had enrolled at the Cairo school of Agriculture. Graduating from the school, he returned home with advanced knowledge of Agriculture and new techniques being used elsewhere. He opened his own farm, and began to make a good amount of money off it.

Now, he owned 21 Farms and Plantations along the Nile River, including his family's farm which he bought from the greedy landlord. He and his family were quite rich, and his name was known far and wide as the name of a man who came with nothing and by 35 owned a Agricultural Empire.

But now, Fredrick stood upon the Speakers Podium, behind him his Vise Verkozen Officiele Anthony Duchan, and the Speaker of the Kongres John D Goodman.
Coming from his left, came the Speaker of the Kongres, the Constitution in his hand. Fredrick turned to face him, putting one hand on the thick book and another over his heart.

Goodman: Do you, Fredrick Henry Hardglass, promise to dedicate yourself to the service of the Federal Republic and her people, the Boers.

Fredrick Hardglass: I do

Goodman: Do you, Fredrick Henry Hardglass, promise to follow the Constitution of the Federal Republic of The Traansval, and to never break her laws or the laws established by this Kongres.

Fredrick Hardglass: I do

Goodman: Do you agree to take the responsibilities and burdens that come with the Office of the Verkozen Officiele.

Fredrick Hardglass: I do

Goodman: Then by the power invested in me by this Staat's Kongres, i pronounce you Verkozen Officiele Fredrick Hardglass, the 11th Verkozen Officiele.

Hardglass turned to the crowd, which was now exploding with cheering as he turned to wave to them. Then slowly making his way to the doors behind the podium that will lead to the Office, his new office.

---

Hardglass

[The Traansval]

Manticoran Capital (OOC: I can't remember what it is)
The Manticoran Empire

June, 1910

Generaal-Majoor Erikson and Luitenant-Kolonel Hsu sat upon seats of velvet and leather inside the cabin of a Ford Car, driving down the streets of the city that was the heart of the Manticoran Empire, a vast nation stretching Four continents. Around the car the people of the nation milled about, walking down the streets or standing at market stalls yelling loudly over prices and goods.

The car began to slow, the driver knocking on the glass panel dividing him from the inter cabin, letting them know that the destination has been reached. A valet opened the door, and held it as the two officers stepped out. 4 Voetvolk Soldiers stood guarding the cars doors, and keeping the path open for them.

A set of doors stood as the entrance to a large stone and concrete building, the building where the Boer Officers were to meet with their Manticoran Counter parts.

Entering the building, Generaal-Majoor Erikson remember back to the reasons they had been sent here. With the Traansval rejoining the ARN in the early 1900's, the Boers had looking in interest at Manticoran Technology. The Manticorans were master tank builders, the only nation who could match them would be the Warglorians. The Boers Tanks were by now quite outdated, although the Renault was still fit for duty, they needed more. Boer Scientists and Engineers back home had begun to drawn up plans, or more realistically specifications of what would be needed. And that is why they were there, to get the help of the masters of the Armored Tank. The Manticoran Engineers.

Sitting down at a large oak table, the two Boers looked across at a group of their Manticoran Counter parts. Hsu spoke first.

Luitenant-Kolonel Hsu: We are very pleased that the Manticorans were willing to meet with us today to discuss this. To put it simply, the Boer's Arsenal had begun to become outdate, particularly our armored and heavier than air vehicles. We have come to ask that, in return for Boer Funds, the Manticoran's assist us in developing these two designs.

Hsu slid over two blueprints, one for a Medium Tank, the other for a Aeroplane.



Luitenant-Kolonel Hsu: In addition, we'd like to purchase 3,000 of your M89 Service Pistols, 3,000 M91 Carbines, 1,000 M1905 Light Machine Guns, and 5,000 of your Baker Automatic Rifles. You can pick the price, we'd simply like to purchase them for our tests into Automatic and Semi-Automatic Weapons.

[The Manticoran Empire]

Manticoran Capital (OOC: I can't remember what it is)
The Manticoran Empire

June, 1910

Generaal-Majoor Erikson and Luitenant-Kolonel Hsu sat upon seats of velvet and leather inside the cabin of a Ford Car, driving down the streets of the city that was the heart of the Manticoran Empire, a vast nation stretching Four continents. Around the car the people of the nation milled about, walking down the streets or standing at market stalls yelling loudly over prices and goods.

The car began to slow, the driver knocking on the glass panel dividing him from the inter cabin, letting them know that the destination has been reached. A valet opened the door, and held it as the two officers stepped out. 4 Voetvolk Soldiers stood guarding the cars doors, and keeping the path open for them.

A set of doors stood as the entrance to a large stone and concrete building, the building where the Boer Officers were to meet with their Manticoran Counter parts.

Entering the building, Generaal-Majoor Erikson remember back to the reasons they had been sent here. With the Traansval rejoining the ARN in the early 1900's, the Boers had looking in interest at Manticoran Technology. The Manticorans were master tank builders, the only nation who could match them would be the Warglorians. The Boers Tanks were by now quite outdated, although the Renault was still fit for duty, they needed more. Boer Scientists and Engineers back home had begun to drawn up plans, or more realistically specifications of what would be needed. And that is why they were there, to get the help of the masters of the Armored Tank. The Manticoran Engineers.

Sitting down at a large oak table, the two Boers looked across at a group of their Manticoran Counter parts. Hsu spoke first.

Luitenant-Kolonel Hsu: We are very pleased that the Manticorans were willing to meet with us today to discuss this. To put it simply, the Boer's Arsenal had begun to become outdate, particularly our armored and heavier than air vehicles. We have come to ask that, in return for Boer Funds, the Manticoran's assist us in developing these two designs.

Hsu slid over two blueprints, one for a Medium Tank, the other for a Aeroplane.
(Image)
(Image)

Luitenant-Kolonel Hsu: In addition, we'd like to purchase 3,000 of your M89 Service Pistols, 3,000 M91 Carbines, 1,000 M1905 Light Machine Guns, and 5,000 of your Baker Automatic Rifles. You can pick the price, we'd simply like to purchase them for our tests into Automatic and Semi-Automatic Weapons.

The High Command reviewed the documents and readily agreed. "As one of our closest allies, we will provide the small arms and our assistance as a gift."

[Arengin Union]

Shi Lo Town

The town of Shi Lo was the town that was directly in front of the enemy forces that began to arrive. At first the enemy forces remained back as the Arenginian marines began to prepare defenses. The marines set up light cannons up on the walls and some at the wall sectors that had been breached. The Arenginians also readied some machine guns tehy had and were ready for an attack.

Then suddenly the sounds of falling shells were heard and the towns were being bombarded. The shells made shrapnel fly across the area as Arenginians and Shievakan civilians ran for cover. Many Arenginians died from the explosions and many more were wounded by shrapnel. Many civilians also died, having their homes destroyed by their own home army.

The remaining Arenginians went back to defenses. Ready to fight despite the many loses. The medics began to drag the wounded away.

Out on Open sea

The enemy navy inflicted heavy damage on the surprised Arenginian navy. Several destroyers and some dreadnoughts received direct hits on the hulls. One destroyer began to sink. The dreadnoughts began to set into battle formation. Destroyers and frigates began to sail in the enemies direction. The Arenginian navy began to frantically fire, missing most shots as they tried to get back into organization. The Shievakans kept firing and hitting many of the ships.



Admiral Makarovich from the lower deck of his dreadnought then began to send orders to all fleets to disperse and make it harder for the Shievakans to hit them. The fleets began to disperse in small groups. 2 destroyers had been sunk and one frigate was being destroyed.

The dreadnoughst and destroyers began to take their time as the crews aimed their gunsm still taking fire but trying to get a good shoot. The mist of the morning began to dicipate and the Shievakans were visible as the smoke of their guns also cleared.



"FIRE" Was scramed on all ships.

The Arenginians fleets fired a massive barrage of shells on the Shievakan vessels. They barrage hit many of the Shievakan ships that began to take fumes. The tow navies began to engage in several firing back and forth.

Shi-Lo Town
The Shievak troops charged the Arengin positions, attacking with complete disregard for casualties. They had heavily outnumbered the Marines before the barrage and had an even greater measure of superiority now that the barrage was completed. The soldiers advanced, firing rifles and throwing grenades into Arengin trenches before entering hand to hand combat with bayonets, knives, and clubs.

Naval Engagement
The Shievak fleet had more ships than the Arengins did but that also meant there were more targets. Torpedoes, shells, and machine gun bullets ripped into Arengin ships, though it was too late to save two battleships and a battlecruiser, as well as several destroyers and light cruisers.

Shi-Lo Town

The marines that had been spared from the bombardment went on to defend the walls of the village. Many others went over the walls onto a small hill that overlooked the downside ridge from where the Shievakans were coming. The Arenginians readied their rifles onto the hill and aimed. Lieutenant Danilla readied his own rifle as the others did. The smoke from the barrage began to clear.

"Ready positions!" the officer said.

The Shievakans began to fire as they ran across the field. The bullets hit the Arenginians unlucky enough to not get to cover. They fell on the ground, bleeding from their heads. The Shievakans also began to throw grenades, which caused explosions in many parts of the defense line.

"FIRE!" The lieutenant screamed. The hillside was filled with smoke from the Arenginians rifles as they hit the line of the advancing Shivakans. The machine guns also began to fire in bursts as the enemy approached. The valley was filling with mounds of Shievakans. Some had managed to advance onto several Arenginian positions and brutal hand to hand combat ensued.



Naval battle

So far two dreadnoughts were heavily damaged and one was sinking. Several destroyers were also damaged and sinking and frigates as well. The Shievakans had more firepower and it showed. Despite odds the Arenginian navy took advantage of the heavy black smoke of the battle and the fleets split up, going from both the right side, the left, and the middle of the wreckage. They began to fire all in coordination against the exposed and confused enemy ships.

Despite taking damage the Arenginians kept moving forward and firing their guns, damaging the Shievakans.

[The Twelve Isles]

Emperor Levan Cartwine

His mother had been a fencer, and he was a boxer. His father was a humanitarian, and he was a snarker. But all in all, Empress Bella Cartwine and Regent Levan Cartwine, Emperor Cartwine's parents, had had a profound effect on his life. He liked to look at the series of family portraits that lined the walls of the Imperial Palace. He liked to see the progression of the Royal Family, from when it was just his mother, at 19 years old, looking nervous and scared, to her again at 25, looking uncomfortable, then again at 31, his father suddenly there next to her, an inch or so shorter. Then another one, with him suddenly in the middle, a little baby being cradled by the Empress, who for the first time he had seen in the pictures was smiling brightly, his father next to her with an awkward grin. Then he got older, and began to sit in a chair in front of his parents, then stand in front of them, then he was taller and his father sat in the chair, and then suddenly it was just him alone on the wall.

Levan didn't like the picture of just him on the wall, he thought it wasn't befitting, and he made sure to complain about it to anyone who would listen. Levans father had died three years ago, and his mother had just last year passed the crown on to him. Levan was staring at the paintings, his nose bleeding and his shirt slung over his shoulder. He had been in the basement, boxing with some of the servants. They liked him, he had a way of presenting himself and carrying himself that seemed to say, "Im not that much different than you on the inside." He thought about how much everything was changing, and how it had all seemed to come down to him to oversee it. His mother had been handed all of her confidants and advisers, most of them still being in office when Bella came to power. Now all of them were old, the only one still kicking around being Imperial Marshal Billy Younger. It seemed like there was nothing that could kill that man, not war, not plague, not political intrigue.

But at the very least Levan liked his new advisers. They were all friendly enough, and understood their fields. He felt a little conflicted about the new Imperial Admiral however, Jonathon Wakefield. His father had been Governor Wakefield, the leader in the Colony's, and he seemed to not fully understand the customs in the Home Isles. But Levan wasn't sure if that was totally a bad thing, maybe a little shake up in the Imperial Court was exactly what the Empire needed.

Still, his Advisory Board was well stocked with experts, and so Levan couldn't complain to much. Mr Timothy Allenswine as the Master of Politico, Mr Rudolph Escargo as the Master of Economics, Imperial Admiral Jonathon Wakefield and Imperial Marshal Billy Younger, Thomas Allen as Master of Science, and Captain Allister Brigmore as the Captain of the Imperial Guard. And, just to add to the excitement, the Imperial Guard had been diversifying as he took the crown, his mother having been in the process of adding more intelligence services and information gathering to the nations military. Now under the command of the Imperial Guard was the Special Reconnaissance and Information's Group, or the SRIG.

And, almost as importantly, there were new developments in the Naval Marines, with the founding of the Special Marine Operations Division. It was hoped that they would be the blunt end of the Twelve Isles club. A collection of half tracks, tanks, anti armor and scouts, SMOD was designed to offer the Naval Marines the ultimate offensive capability, but also the ability to complete many different missions as they were called on. It felt fitting to him that they were formed now, considering the rising tensions with the rest of the world.

[The Traansval]

Kazerne (Barracks) 2911
Fort Higgs
27 miles south of Pretoria City
Gauteng Staat
De Federale Republiek van de Traansval (The Federal Republic of The Traansval)

August 3rd, 1910

PEK Lawrence Adams dropped the light brown duffel bag onto the floor next to his bunk, his bunk mate, Privaat Jordenson, doing the same but also groaning in exhausting. Lawrence scratched for the canteen hanging from his bed post, his hands looking claw like as the desperately tried to pry to cap off the metal canister, which held sweet sweet water, sweet sweet relief. He felt the cap loosen and then come off, clattering on the floor as Lawrence swiftly raised it up into the air, waiting for the rush of cool liquid to flow out of it into his parched mouth.

No such relief came to him.

Lawrence was starting to think God truly hated him. Feeling was mutual.

He started in disbelief, he'd just refilled it an hour ago, and he hadn't drunk any. Looking inside, he could see a small amount of fine sand, it getting rid of any moister that could have survived. Rage bolted through him, assuming someone had done this as a prank, until he turned around and saw the rest of his unit looking at their canteens the same way he did. No one had water.

Just then, the doors swished open and everyone, despite their tiredness, ran and snapped to attention in from of their bunks. A man in a grey shirt, which every soldier wore under the jacket of their uniform, and baggy khaki pants along with a Ranger Cap walked in, a black baton in his hand. He snapped it down on a metal trash can. He was the drill instructor. Sersant Arkhan

Sersant Arkhan: Well look at all these dandies. You all may be wondering why your canteens are suddenly empty, and the answer is simple. I dumped it all. And i don't want no whining from the lot of you. As soldiers of the Leger von Traansval, you are committed to fighting for Boer Soil, including her Deserts. As such, we will be spending this week, training with minimal water.

A man across the way from Lawrence, Privaat Anders, gave a short groan. Arkhan slammed his baton the metal of Anders bed, inches from his head. A good dent was in the bed frame.

Sersant Arkhan: WHAT THE FUCK DID YOU SAY ANDERS! WAS THAT WHINE? WHAT THE FUCK DID I SAY ABOUT WHINING! I'D LIKE TO SEE YOU WHINE, WHEN YOUR UNIT OF 30 MEN IS STRANDED IN A MOTHERFUCKING DESERT WITH NOTHING BUT YOUR CANTEENS!

Lawrence gulped, he questioned why he was here. He wondered why, why was he so stupid. He could have gone the easy way, he had finished basic training and as he sat with his Voetvolk Company weeks in advance of their final day, a man in a Gepantserd Korp Officer Unit had come by, asking if anyone wanted to volunteer for transfer to the Gepantserd Korp. This was quite commonplace, the Gepantserd Korp often took Voetvolk Soldaten (Soldiers) to be added to the "Gepantserd-Voetvolk". They were effectively guards for the Gepantserd Korp Army Bases. Increased pay too.

Then Privaat Lawrence had eagerly raised his hand, his father had been a high ranking official in the Gepantserd Korp (His father told him of when it was once just called the Armored Corp), and had been the right hand man to Gepantserd Bevelvoerder Carlos Trevino, who was still the Commander of the Korp. He saw this as his way to honor his father.

What he didn't expect, was that when he arrived, he was taken to a Barracks at Fort Higgs, which was one of the Gepantserd Bases, and told he was to be one of the many being trained to form a brand new part of the Force. A force of Infantrymen trained specially for use with the Motorized Vehicles of the Korp. As such, they were named accordingly.

The Gemotoriseerde Infanterie Korp.

The Motorized Infantry Corp.

The instructors were tough. And he though Basic was tough, these men made Basic look like Primary School. It didn't help that for the two weeks he'd been there, the instructors had never let up, forcefully waking all at 4 am, marching miles through the deserts, all with "minimal" rest, and now "minimal" water and food.

This was hell....

[Skarten]

March to Shievak

It was mid day, and the sun was enjoyable at this time of years.
Many soldiers were in Trucks, an smaller ammont was marching.
The Skartenian Army had decided to move their troopers.
It was spring, and this way, they didn't have to go through the valley. They instead optioned to travel through the fields of Ogfpopo.
The Biplanes (Delivered on the last batch of Reinforcements), would scout ahead, ready to spot enemy forces.
While that ,At Skarten

To:Manticoran Navy
From:Skartenian Military

WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU, REMOVE THE BLOCKADE.

[Arengin Union]

Arengin

With the war in Shievak still going on Arengin was still enjoying much economic output and industrial expansion with mining and factory building in the Morverian provinces. Railways were also being built to connect the region with the rest of Arengin and plans were ongoing to assimilate the region's population into Arenginian culture while not forcing them to change too much as to avoid conflict. Most of the Morverian population was becoming tolerant to the new regime, while still maintaining some autonomy. Most of the middle class and elites were rather open to adopting Europan customs, many region sultans would invite Arenginian military and civilian representatives in order to discuss oil production and also exchange clothing and a few laughs.


Constantinople railway greets arrival of Arenginians

Morverian village

The Arenginians citizens and entrepreneurs arriving to the region had allowed the cities to become a mixture of cultures and for the last couple of years Constantinople and other cities had been rapidly rebuild to their former glory and were quickly modernizing to the 20th century thanks to the new technologies brought by Arenginians.

New textile factory in Morvern

King Nikolai had been very open to allowing the Morverian to have autonomy as long as they respected the Royal supreme rule, tribes in the norther less sophisticated parts of Morvern however, had risen up in arms against the military forces. They had become a nuisance, constantly attacking railways and attacking military convoys and terrorizing the civilian population. The region's military compromising of both Slavs and Arabs began to conduct anti insurgency operations, this allowed much bonding and camaraderie among soldiers.
Slav and Arab soldiers of the Regional Military sharing a conversation

Nuwee Afrikaan Sea

The news of Manticorian vessels blocking ships from entering or exiting the Arenginian ports along the coast of the Nuween Afrikaan sea arrived to the naval commander of the region. This was unacceptable, especially since the Manticorians demanded the Arenginians and the Shievakans come to a peace agreement, as if trying to dictate Arenginian politics and diplomacy.

King Nikolai had had enough. After many protests around Arengin calling for the end of Arengin's appeasement with Manticore and so Duma began to make demands for the king to respond and so he did. He called Amiral Tarkiv of the 9th fleet, and ordered for him to assemble send the 10th and 12th fleets and await further orders.

Both fleets moved to meet the Manticorian vessels and stood a few miles from it. The sailors began to ready batteries and cannons in case of battle.

To: Manticore's foreign affairs
From: Ambassador Dotskoy

By orders if his majesty King Nikolai Oswyn IV, retreat your naval forces away from Arenginian water and allow commercial vessels to enter.
This is the first and final warning we will give, if you don't move them there will be consequences and they will on your hands.

[The Traansval]

Boer National Drydocks
London
The North Cape Staat
De Federale Republiek van de Traansval (The Federal Republic of The Traansval)
1910

Johnathan Bronzeworth swiped the back of his hand over his tanned brow, taking the sweat with it into the air. Setting his hammer down for a moment, he heard the shrill whistle that came from the mess hall denoting that it was now the Union Regulated Break Period. Johnny, as his friends called him, reached into his pocket for his packet of cigarettes, raising one to his lip and lighting it on the blow torch of another worker, handing him a cig in payment. Walking on the wooden scaffolding, he made it to the sandstone that made up the solid floor of the Drydocks. Like large U's, these rectangles of Sandstone formed the outline of the different Section from which ships were sent to be repaired, or built inside.

In this case Johnny's section, Section 7, was tasked with refitting a Battleship, the BNS Congarin into a Transport ship. The Boer Naval High Command decided that the Ivorum was now far too outdated, what with the Dreadnoughts and Superdreadnoughts that lurked the seas. Most decommissioned ships were scrapped, but it was decided that the Ivorum's, with their large size and capacity, would do well in a Transport and Medical ship role. Drydocks both private and Government were contracted to undertake the process.

The National Drydocks had 13 Sections, all of them currently filled with Ivorum's being worked on. The rest of the ships went to other smaller drydocks for work, supervised and quality controlled by National Drydock Foremen.

What piqued Johnnys curiosity was when he was speaking with the Foremen, him being in charge of on the Teams of Section 7, and noticed that the books listed only 45 of the 50 Ivorums being currently worked on. Even more interesting is that sections 8 though 13 were not listed, even though they were currently filled. The foreman told him to shut his trap and to stop thinking about it, and that it was some sort of secret government thing.

Now, Johnny looked to his left, at Section 8 right next to them. Scaffold went up around the sectors, black tarps obscuring it from view, Kaapstad Scherpshutters all around it with their rifles keeping every away from it.

Most peculiar......

[Rannoria]

Aerial Success!

Finally, the Rannorians have managed to construct airplanes. It has been a process that was delayed time and time and over again, but they finally have the blueprints to build an aerial fleet.

The planes are the M.1910 Rake (based off a modified Deperdussin 1910 monoplane so that it can hold weapons) along with the Standard Mark.1 (based off the German Grade monoplane).

As of currently, Rannoria has entered an isolation never known to any Rannorian of this age before, but rumors are spreading that the Yaidom may bring Rannoria out of isolation after 20 years of inner conflict and silence.

To: Rannorian Government
From: Grayman-Manticoran Foreign Ministry

The Empire wishes to invite you to discuss greater political and economic cooperation in Vicuna. Additionally, we would like to inquire as to our offer to purchase the colony of Barrum.

Meanwhile, the Army planned to put a new heavy tank into production. It weighed 45 tons and would be armed with an 85mm main gun and two 7.92mm machine guns. The biggest change, however, would be its armor. Sloped front, side, and rear armor would greatly increase the overall thickness of the armor. The front would be 80mm, the sides would be 50mm, and the rear would be 40mm. Turret armor would 100mm at the front, 45mm at the sides and rear, 16mm on the top, with a mantlet of 100mm around the gun.

The Navy was also developing new vessels. In an effort to improve their own aviation projection, they were developing their own sea-going aircraft carrier. The design called for a vessel that was 262 meters long, 31 meters wide, and had a draught of 8 meters. Designers claimed it would be able to carry 43 aircraft when completed and reach speeds of 35 knots.

Manticore

To: Grayman-Manticorian Foreign Ministry

Ah, of course. Terribly sorry for the long reply. I shall be over in a matter of moments. If you do not mind, I shall also bring Gonshu Kalle Rotmeg with me to discuss the situation about Barrum. A ship carrying the name "RON-Brigadier" shall be the ship I am on.

I will see you there, Yaidom Toko Yanab

And off was the Yaidom in his first diplomatic mission. It was also about time that someone continued the inquiry about Barrum. Another nation had promised that they along with several others would cash in to purchase the colony, but never continued with the purchase. It took time to travel the Deruhn Sea, but while on the ship, he and Kalle Rotmeg discussed.

Aboard the RON-Brigadier
"Kalle, as ready as we are to pen off the Barrum colony, we must also consider Manticore. They are strong. Very strong. They almost encompass half the globe. Tensions are rising up between the western and eastern hemisphere, and we must consider what side we are on. Maybe we shouldn't have agreed to this after all."

"It's too late now, Toko. You know that. We've waited long enough anyway, and we could use a strong ally. Although, you may be right. Hypothetically, if Manticore does dominate the world, and we are their ally, we will be nothing but a puppet on one more string. They would have the power to invade us anytime."

There was a silence between the two, but it was broken by the Yaidom. "Let's not think about that, shall we?" A bell rung, and the two heard it. "Come on, it's supper."

[The Traansval]

Undisclosed location
27 miles south of Pretoria City
Gauteng Staat
De Federale Republiek van de Traansval (The Federal Republic of The Traansval)
1910

PEK Lawrence Adams felt his helmeted head hit the back of the metal wall of the vehicle carrying him and the rest of Company L. Tweede Luitenant Tomas Andrews crouched near the front, a pair of binoculars held up to his eyes as he surveyed the area around them. Adams turned his head to look through the small peep hole in the wall of the open top vehicle, seeing three more of its kind rumbling across the desert sand holding Companies A, D, M, and O.

The motorcade crested a sand dune, the vehicles flying over the top before landing with a slight crash, jarring its occupants. In front of them stood a Trench line, filled with soldier with bright red painted helmets. Now was the time for action!

Machine Guns in the trenches opened up their fire on the cars, flashes from their muzzles mixing with the pinging of bullets off the side of their hull. Tweede Luitenant Andrews quickly ducked down, screaming a hearty What the Fuck!. The men kept their heads down, hiding behind the protection offered by the steel armor.

All at once, the Armor stopped its advance, and all at once the Companies inside filled out, taking positions around the cars and firing back at the trench line. Privaat Jackson got on the Ryder Mk1 machine gun mounted near the front, holding down its trigger firing back at the enemy, other men did the same in the other cars.

Adams raised his Pretorian-Mauser to his shoulder, aiming for the trench and firing what was really little more than a potshot. They were too far out to make out targets, and it didn't help that they were mostly obscured by the trench wall. A Kjellman Gunner lay prone next to the car, the bipod on his light machine gun out and his gun firing at the dastardly bastards. Andrews knocked twice on the hull of the car, and suddenly it lurched forward at a slow rate, its gun still blazing. Adams and the rest of his Company began to advance with it, firing shots from around the corner of the protective metal of the cars armor. The Kjellman Gunner, a Korporaal Yakobson, had run back into the back of the car, flipping out his bipod and sticking it into the metal of the cars cabin roof.

Seeing their car begin the advance, the rest of the cars followed suit, pinpricks of of muzzle flashed coming from them and their gunners. A few took out grenades and tossed them, Adams didn't see the explosions, took wrapped up in the assault. He slung himself back inside, sitting on the bench and quickly taking out a stripper clip and slamming it into the Rifle, closing its bolt. Standing up in the back of the car, he aimed and took a shot, before jumping back out and rejoining his comrads.

They were close now, a line of barbed wire now seperated them and the trench of their most hated enemy. Two men emerged from behind the car, two large metal tubes in their hands, with a bright white "Bangalore Torpedo" painted on their sides. The men then broke into a mad sprint, and then lowered the Torpedo's to the ground and slide them forward into the barbed wire. The two then suddenly feel down, clutching various parts of their chests and the machine gun in front of them opened up. Adams looked back now, seeing many more of his fellow soldiers laying in the sand, motionless.

The torpedo's timer expired, and so did the torpedo's, going up in a ball of flame as the barbed wire was cleared out. Engineers from the other cars did the same, opening up gaps in the wire. Gaps the Boers were now using.

The car suddenly accelerated, speeding up towards the slight hill that the trench was on. Rocketing over it, the car suddenly took a sharp left turn, bringing about its gun onto the helpless defenders inside. Some of Adams's fellow soldiers had stayed inside, and were now jumping out and firing at the enemy from behind the motionless car.

Adams felt his boots hit a bit of barbed wire underfoot as he ran at full speed to the trench, his Bolo Knife sliding out of its sheath as he slung his rifle back across his... well back. A few armed with Trench Guns kept their Knifes holstered, while most took them out. It was quite a formidable sight, all along the line a combined force of a couple hundred Boer soldiers, with snarls and dark war paint on their faces, and big curved knifes in their hands, running at full speed up the slight incline towards the trench. Adams lept over the last hurdle into the trench, as he landed he saw a defender under him, the man reached for the bayonet near his hip. Adams put a stop to this, bringing the knife down near the crux between his shoulder and his neck. The man lay motionless beneath him. Standing up quickly, Adams looked around at the fighting, spotting a defender who was quickly about to overwhelm and kill one of his comrads. Running, he brought the knife back and slammed it again at that crux, ending the fight.

As he turned around, he was surprised to see a defender staring at him, a bayonet drawn as he quickly came upon me. Before i could react, the bayonet came forward towards my throat, quickly slicing across the skin. I clutched at my throat, falling to my knees, and now in a half sitting/half laying position, i looked up to the heavens as i lived my final moments.

HWWWWWWIISSS

The shrill cry of a whistle came over the battlefield. Adams gripped the wood panels, bringing himself back up, fixing his helmet back into place as the rest of the "dead" did. Across the desert, Adams could see his comrads who had once lay in the sand get up. Defender and Attacker alike shook hands as a Silver Ghost Armored Car came rumbling over the desert toward them.

Adams took off the wool and leather cover that had been placed on his bolo, the defenders doing the same to their bayonets. A man with a crate came by, asking everyone to hand in their clips, which were filled with Blank Rounds.

It was all a simulation. The first of the new Motorized Infantry had been brought out of Fort Higgs to demonstrate their training and tactics to the High Command. By the looks on the officers in the car, it seemed they were impressed. The Armored Cars which they had rode in during the assault were brand new inventions, they were called "Half Tracks", because they were half Tank Track with wheels in the front.



All in all, this was quite the success...

[The Imperial Warglorian Empire]

Military Meeting Room, Führerhauptquartiere, New Berlin
In a bunker under the Reichschancellery, laid one of the most important places in the Reich: The Führerhauptquartiere. Named only for significance, the Supreme Military HQ (which I will be calling it from now on, because I can't spell that) was where every plan was officialised, every operation granted, where commanders gathered to talk what to do next, and, after the fall of Eisenwald, where all the military and technological secrets of Wargloria were stored. It was perfect, the most protected building in the Reich, hidden under the next most heavily protected building in the Reich. In the bunker, was the next most important room in the building, the meeting room, where all the top dogs of the Reich figure out what's next. Currently in the room was a mass of sound, as Admirals, Generals, Marshals, and more were speaking to each other. Each was sat on a chair, and each chair surrounded a long table, that had a massive map and several other pieces of others.

They were waiting for one man, and he had just arrived. Suddenly, the noise stopped, as everyone in the room immediately looked to the door. Walking in with a walking stick that had a gold eagle head, in his Feldmarshal uniform, many medals, a swastika and eagle armband, and signature sabre by his side, was current 71 year old Führer Hans Landa. Immediately, everyone in the room stood to attention, holding out their right arms into a right angles and pointing their clenched fists up words. "Hail Reich!" Everyone in the room shouted, as they then put their still clenched fists on their chests, and then extended them forwards into the air and shouting out "Ehre" while repeating it 2 more times. Landa for some reason, didn't exactly like the previous salute, so had changed it altogether with some similarities. The the one armed 'Sieg Heil' salute was still used, this was the new official salute that would be used.

Landa nodded to his Generals, and signaled them to sit down. During Landa's reign, employment and standards of living in the Reich raised, as new jobs were being created such as updating train tracks and building new roads. The Reich was also trying to find new alternate ways to power their vehicles, as Landa quite liked the environment, looking into possibilities such as using electricity to power their vehicles instead of gasoline and coal, and are attempting to find new ways to harvest energy, such as a newly formed idea called solar power, harvesting power from the sun, and machines were being designed to attempt to see if it was possible. Soon, Landa sat down at the head of the table.

"Status?" Landa asked his people. "Mein Führer, I am sure you have heard of the recent incursion of the Manticorans, blockading ports, we have heard that the Arenginians and Skartens have already demanded they abandon the blockade, but they have so far refused." Said Prime Minister Lindenberg. Despite his job being that of a politician, Lindenberg was also a skilled soldier and officer, so was also appointed as Landa's second in command. "Tensions have been rising, and we all fear that war with the Alliance is possible, which is why I have already drafted a general mobilisation of troops." Landa listened, and mentally sighed. Wargloria had long been at war with many countries, and he has seen those horrors before. Landa had been looking a bit at Wargloria's recent history, and has seen how Wargloria has directly and indirectly caused the suffering of millions, the breaking of family, and the destruction of long friendships.

Landa had (surprisingly) grown a little wary of war, war was something that Wargloria was good at, sure, but having war all the time wasn't that pleasing to him. He had built a mighty Reich, one that now was powerful and prosperous....all of what he built could be destroyed in an instant with war. He had long contemplated that maybe Wargloria should follow what the Traansval had recently ended: start a mild self isolation policy. Not long term, but more until he could sort out Wargloria to be more adaptable and less military dependant. He had long wanted to lessen the need of a military, but the threat of Rannoria, the Traansval, and Manticore kept him from doing so. After this war, he swore he would do something to finally end the suffering.

"What is our troop composition had positions so far?" Landa asked. "We currently have 1.6 Million soldiers ready for duty sir, 1 million on the mainland, 600,000 in the colonies, with recent effects we have about 200,000 men on the Sylbanian Border, and we have 500,000 men on the Rannorian Border." Lindenberg continued. "Our Southern Shore defences have a garrison of around 100,000 troops, and we have 75,000 on the shore defences of Vexpold." Landa looked at the map of Wargloria: his Reich, how it had grew significantly since 1871, when Adler was Führer. Adler. He wished his friend was with him today, he and Adler were good friends, the best of friends, like brothers, when he disappeared, he had attempted to make contact, after ten years, he had given up.

He wished one day they could meet again as friends, but he knew he couldn't let petty friendships, no matter how important to him, get in the way of taking care of the Reich, that's what Adler would've wanted. "How about our naval forces?" Landa asked. A man stood up, wearing the traditional Warglorian Admiral Uniform. "Our naval forces have grown much, we currently have 4 main battle groups, each holding about 40-60 or so warships, at least 10 of them being either battleships or dreadnoughts." Grand Admiral Dönitz, previously commander of the Warglorian SOLS Fleet, now Grand Admiral of the Warglorian Navy, said.

"How of our tanks?" Landa asked. "We have over 25,000 Tanks, 15,000 of them crewed by those who have seen combat, we have also 2 new tanks that are waiting for mass production, the Panzer V, and we have a new design that utilises the new sloped technology that we have discovered can make tanks even better defended, the Panzer VI, which uses a new 75 mm KwK 42 gun, and has slanted armour, that should allow the tank to be better protected, though it might need a few more tests, it has passed the minimum, and we're ready to mass produce." Lindenberg finished. "I see now problem in the design Lindenberg, you have my permission to mass produce them." Landa said "Although, I have another request sir." Lindenberg suddenly asked.

"Oh?" Landa replied Lindenberg. "Our engineers have been working on another tank, but unlike any other tank, a tank that utilises the 88 mm flak gun." Lindenberg asked. Suddenly, the room shouted out in voices of complains. The Super Tank Program had always been controversial, the program sought out to produce heavy tanks so powerful that it could take out 50 tanks by itself, or so it says. Many Generals, however, have said how the tank would simply be a waste of materials. Landa slammed his hand on the table. "Let me see the blue prints Lindenberg." Landa said. Lindenberg got out several blueprints, showing a massive tank, with thick armour, a powerful engine and a big gun. "It will be called the Uberpanzer I, or the Panzer VII." Lindenberg said. Landa looked at the designs, and though he found the Panzer VI to be a more impressive design, the supposed Uberpanzer would definitely tip the balance of power to Wargloria if employed on the battlefield.

"When could we create the first prototype?" Landa asked Lindenberg. "Our engineers estimate that with the current planning, we will be able to have a decently working prototype by 1920, and we should have finalised the design by 1930." Lindenberg replied looking excited. Landa thought to himself for a second, then replied "You have my permission to continue this project." Landa said. Suddenly, the shouting in the room erupted again, then Landa pulled out his Luger and shot into the ceiling, causing everyone to immediately stop. "That is my final decision, now, on to other business, how about our airforce?" Landa asked. Lindenberg brought out more schematics. "We have been mass producing 3 new planes, the Halberstadt CL.IV Ground Attack Plane, the Caproni Ca.4 Heavy Bomber, and the Ansaldo A.1 Balilla Fighter Plane, we currently have about 500 bombers, 1000 Ground Attack Aircraft, and 2000 Fighter Planes, and we have more being built everyday, we also have 70 Kriegzeppelins, however we have slightly taken down zeppelin production in favour of plane production." Lindenberg said.

Landa nodded, so far Warglorian Military Operations seemed to be going well. "Any other news?" Landa asked. "Well, we have decided to combine all our intelligence agencies, the Abwher, the Gestapo, and the SA Secret Service into one Intelligence Task Force, named the 'Warg International Nachrichtendienst', or for the English, Warg International Intelligence Task Force." Lindenberg said. "This is the new logo of the Agency, we currently have 300 active Agents, 20 of them being apart of the new 'Schatten Operativ' or what I like to call it, the 'Double O' Task Force." Lindenberg said, putting down a book in front of Landa. Looking at it, he instantly loved the symbol, it clearly represented a mix of how the agency was deadly, quick, and everywhere, he nodded in approval, however, in some deep part of him, he felt it was wrong, but for now, that could wait, Wargloria's New World Order was coming, and he must prepare.

Warg International Intelligence Task Force Logo

Seems familiar......oh no

[Arengin Union]

Ministry of War

More inventions had been brought for the Arenginian military, trying to keep up with the ever evolving technology. The ministry had once again opened the gate for new innovations for the military. Many inventions were set on the table but only three new inventions had caught the officials eyes. . A new aeroplane, a brand new use of rockets and two new firearms for the military.

At the usual testing hangar, schematics were shown to the military officials of both the army and intelligence. The first was brought by Captain Ulman Estacov. A new aeroplane specifically made for attack, not reconnaissance or support. The schematics were shown and the officials loved the idea. And quickly approved the building of these new plane.



The second invention was the new rifle. Major Dimitri Fedorov had brought blueprints and a prototype for a new vastly innovative weapon. A new fully automatic rifle, light enough to be carried by a single soldier and would be a vastly improvement over the bolt action rifles of the armed forces. After a quick demonstration the rifle was approved for production.



The third invention revolved around the use of the rocket technology used by the Rusklands back in the war. Brought by several officers of the army and some civilian engineers, the weapon revolved around setting rocket launchers on top of simple trucks, it was cheap and inexpensive but also ingenious, it would allow the army for a quick and mobile self propelled artillery that could give serious blows to the enemy. Truly a great invention that the officials quickly approved.


That was it for inventions. They would prove effective for the army. Production began quickly.

[Skarten]

S.A.W.P. Airport B-2,Redland

It was finally time!


The Original project for the Skartenian Air Force was done.

After more than 20 Years of research and a Succefull Prototype,the Airco D.2,3 new Biplane Models Were created. The building of prototypes and testing was to follow.

Prototype I
Prototype II

Prototype III

While Combat testing wasn't done,the Hulls and engines were to be tested until the end of the year

After a long time, the Planes had been produced.
The First Prototype, the Fokker D,had been chosen as the fighter biplane of the Skartenian Army.An total of 500 Units, divided in 50 Squads of 10.
The second one, the Sopwith Dragon, was the fastest of them all, and was chosen as a scout biplane. 400 Of them were made, with 80 squads of 5.
The last of them, the Gotha G.V bomber, was designed to be one of the first Bombers.
300 Of them were made, with 30 squads of 10.

[The Traansval]

War Room Red
Underneath the Ministerie van Oorlog en Defensie (Ministry of War and Defense)
Pretoria
Gauteng Staat
Verenigde Staten van Traansval (United States of The Traansval)

1910

Verkozen Officiele Fredrick Hardglass pushed open the two solid steel doors to the room, which contained rows and rows of telephones and telegraphs, with people working around the clock sorting through reports and filing them away into manilla folders which were then taken away by Junior Officers and wisked to a smaller central room, whose walls were made of reinforced opaque glass. Walking forward, receiving a few salutes on his way, Hardglass opened the two doors which gave a view inside. Dismissing his two escort Gardesmaans, he closed the door and turned to face the room.

A few arm chairs sat in the corners, with ash trays on small tales holding still lit cigarettes and cigars, sitting right next to glasses of Whiskey and Brandy. The men inside all gave off crisp salutes. These men were the Commanding Officers of the Leger von Traansval, collectively they compromised "High Command". Dressed in smart Blue and White Uniforms with Gold mixed in, stood Admiraal Hudson and Admiraal Zeegers of the Vloot and Vloot-Voetvolk respectively.

The Army Officers stood almost unconsciously together at one end, all pressed in their Dress Uniforms of a light brown. In the center of the room stood a table, which currently held a map of the Afrikaan Continent on it. It seemed that the Commanders had all been discussing warfare in the Continent, particularly fighting the Arengins. One of them, an older man who stood with black hair and a long black beard, both showing signs of developing flecks of grey in them, stood and calmly walked to the Verkozen Officiele.

He was Generaal Parker. Former commander of the Voetvolk, after the retirement of Generaal Amundsend, Parker was elevated to becoming the Commander in Chief, or Opperbevelhebber, of the Leger von Traansval. He now stood in front of his nations Leader, and shook his hand.

Fredrick Hardglass: Gentlemen, i've heard of rumblings in the east. I need updates, i want to be fully informed of all proceedings. We teeter on a fine line between peace and war.

Before Parker could speak, Admiraal Hudson spoke quickly.

Admiraal Hudson: The damn Manticorans have enforced a Naval Blockade on Arengin and their puppet Skarten. Both have issued words of warning to the Empire, who have no responded and still hold the blockade. I swear, its like they want to send the world into war!

Fredrick Hardglass: Calm yourself Hudson, you speak of a ally. At any rate, Parker i want to be fully informed on this matter.

Parker picked up a folder from the small metal drop box that existed in the wall, where the Intelligence Gatherers outside dropped their reports for the officers.

Generaal Parker: What Hudson says holds true. The Manticorans are enforcing blockades and are not stepping down. If neither side backs down, then the Arengins will eventually send out their navy to engage the Manticoran Fleets. This will undoubtedly lead to declarations of war being sent from Manticore and Arengin, and as a member of the ARN we are required to come to the side of Manticore and participate in the war.

Hardglass frowned, rubbing the small stubble on his chin, instinctively reaching for a flask of whiskey in his coat before realizing he stopped drinking years ago. Retracting his hand, he moved over to the table, looking at the map.

Fredrick Hardglass: Have the Diplomats write up a secret message to Manticore, asking them to lower the blockade to avoid war. However, make sure it STAYS secret. If the GDU gets word that the Traansval asked Manticore to stop the blockade, they'll have a field day with it, and it will only serve to turn the Manticoran Public away from us.
Admiraal Hudson, send word to Nimitz that he needs to organize his First Vloot and send it to the Sea of Khartoum, we need to be prepared for the Arengin Navy in case of war.

Admiraal Hudson: Already done sir. Nimitz is Organizing the First and Third Vloots as we speak for sail to Khartoum. I've also assigned the Fourth Vloot to the Western Coast, our intelligence reports indicate that in the case of war it is entirely possible that the Tekno Republic could organize a naval offensive against us.

Before Fredrick could respond, another man spoke up. He wore a uniform near identical to Hudson's, only his was pure black and instead of the Anchor that the Navy used as its Seal, he wore a silver medal of two extended wings meeting in the center to the face of a Boar. He was Admiraal Hundly, of the Lud Korp, or Aerial Corp.

Admiraal Hundly: I've attached the First Lug-Vloot to Vise-Admiraal Nimitz's force, to assist them, as well as the Third Lug-Vloot to the Fourth Vloot. The Second Lug-Vloot is currently in Tamir, the Fourth is stationed on the Arengin Border, and the Fifth is on standby at Fort Jackson.

Fredrick Hardglass: Excellent. What of the newer Airplanes, i heard that a few of the never Model 1910 Flyers have come out of our joint project in Manticore?

From beside Hundly, a man in a identical uniform spoke, he was Lug Vise-Admiraal Mitchel, the leader of the Vliegend Korp, a smaller part of the Lug Korp. The Vliegend Korp, translated as Flying Corp, was formed with the invention of the Airplane. While the Lug Korp operated as a largely independent Force, fighting air battles or preforming large bombing campaigns, the Flying Corp was created as a force that was tied to the Infantry. The Flying Corp provided intelligence Photographs for the ground troops, and also assisted them by flying in front of them as they charged, dropping smaller bombs.

Vise-Admiraal Mitchel: I've formed a Squadron of 10 men with the 1910's. So far, practice exercises show them to be great aircraft, they are espesically better suited for ground support than the 1900. My men are stationed along the border and in Sylbania.

Fredrick Hardglass: Very well. I want some tests to be run on them and their performance. How soon can we get more of these?

Generaal Parker: By 1911, we should see a couple hundred being sent over from Manticore. Also by 1911 we can begin domestic production of the 1910 Flyer and also the BAV-21 tanks.

Fredrick Hardglass: Good, good... Now, i want to hear the results of the Geschut Department investigation into our small arms.

Generaal Henry, of the Geschut (Ordnance) Department, dropped a manila folder on the table in front of the Verkozen Officiele, speaking frankly.

Generaal Henry: The Department has come to many conclusions on our Small Arms. First and foremost, the amount of Rifles in service is far too many. The Leger uses the Pretorian-Mauser, the Lee-Mauser Carbine, and the Lee navy. The Department recommends that the Lee Rifles be taken out of service, the Pretorian-Mauser is more than adequate for use to replace those other two rifles, although we also propose the adoption of the recent Mauser 1910 Rifle as a Secondary Rifle for the Navy and other Second Line Troops. Secondly, the Ryder-Kjellman, while a breakthrough in technology which has allowed our troops unsurpassed firepower, its design is not Ergonomic. Its heavy, clunky, and its Water Cooled. Mauser has proposed a Conversion system, which they called the Mauser-Kjellman. It moves the magazine to the underside, along with making it lighter and air cooled using a similar cooling system to the Manticoran Light Machine Guns. Thirdly, the Ryder-Mauser MG90 must be phased out of duty, its outdated and is frankly not fit for service. Fourthly, the Mauser-Charloa is far far too outdated by now, the only reason its still in use is because the Scherpshutters are sentimental, the Colt New Army, while not Outdated, is frankly not a needed firearm. The Bergmann-Mauser is far more advanced than both of these, its detachable magazine makes it faster to load than the Charloa and its Semi-Automatic system gives it better fire power than the Colt. We recommend replacing the Charloa and Colt with the Bergmann-Mauser.

Generaal Parker: I concur with many of these findings, i have personally tested the Mauser Geweer 1910 and its a perfectly adequate rifle. The Mauser-Kjellman Automatisch Geweer M1910 also is a far better firearm to the Ryder-Kjellman, i have the test reports from Field Trials and it shows its a massive improvement on the original.

Fredrick Hardglass: Very well, i'll sign off on these changes in supply. Also, make sure the new Automatisch Geweer is chambered in the same .30-06 Pretorian round, and not the 8mm Mauser. Now, Gepantserd Bevelvoerder Carlos, i want a update on our modernization program for the Gepantserd Korp.

Bevelvoerder Carlos stood up from the felt chair in the corner, his dress uniform had a small oil stain on its left sleeve and a large silver gear medal was pinned to his cap.

Bevelvoerder Carlos: The first prototype of the BAV-21 Light Tank arrived yesterday at Fort Higgs, we've tested it and its a big improvement on the older BAV-2's. We're currently beginning the process to Surplus the older models, and the Infantry Support Car has been scrapped. We're hopping to get 500 BAV-21's to arrive by early 1911 from Manticore, and around the same time we should see Domestic Production begin.

Fredrick Hardglass: Good, Good. I need the Leger modernized as soon as possible. Hopefully by 1911 our project to modernize the Bereden Korp will have been completed, and we'll be ready to face the Arengins. Generaal Henry, put in a order for 10,000 more Artillery guns. We need to increase the amount of Artillery we're fielding. If that is all, meeting adjourned.

[The Manticoran Empire]

To: Rannorian Government
From: Grayman-Manticoran Foreign Ministry

The Empire wishes to invite you to discuss greater political and economic cooperation in Vicuna. Additionally, we would like to inquire as to our offer to purchase the colony of Barrum.

Meanwhile, the Army planned to put a new heavy tank into production. It weighed 45 tons and would be armed with an 85mm main gun and two 7.92mm machine guns. The biggest change, however, would be its armor. Sloped front, side, and rear armor would greatly increase the overall thickness of the armor. The front would be 80mm, the sides would be 50mm, and the rear would be 40mm. Turret armor would 100mm at the front, 45mm at the sides and rear, 16mm on the top, with a mantlet of 100mm around the gun.

The Navy was also developing new vessels. In an effort to improve their own aviation projection, they were developing their own sea-going aircraft carrier. The design called for a vessel that was 262 meters long, 31 meters wide, and had a draught of 8 meters. Designers claimed it would be able to carry 43 aircraft when completed and reach speeds of 35 knots.

Manticore

To: Grayman-Manticorian Foreign Ministry

Ah, of course. Terribly sorry for the long reply. I shall be over in a matter of moments. If you do not mind, I shall also bring Gonshu Kalle Rotmeg with me to discuss the situation about Barrum. A ship carrying the name "RON-Brigadier" shall be the ship I am on.

I will see you there, Yaidom Toko Yanab

And off was the Yaidom in his first diplomatic mission. It was also about time that someone continued the inquiry about Barrum. Another nation had promised that they along with several others would cash in to purchase the colony, but never continued with the purchase. It took time to travel the Deruhn Sea, but while on the ship, he and Kalle Rotmeg discussed.

Aboard the RON-Brigadier
"Kalle, as ready as we are to pen off the Barrum colony, we must also consider Manticore. They are strong. Very strong. They almost encompass half the globe. Tensions are rising up between the western and eastern hemisphere, and we must consider what side we are on. Maybe we shouldn't have agreed to this after all."

"It's too late now, Toko. You know that. We've waited long enough anyway, and we could use a strong ally. Although, you may be right. Hypothetically, if Manticore does dominate the world, and we are their ally, we will be nothing but a puppet on one more string. They would have the power to invade us anytime."

There was a silence between the two, but it was broken by the Yaidom. "Let's not think about that, shall we?" A bell rung, and the two heard it. "Come on, it's supper."

The soldiers of the Empress's Own Guard's Tank Regiment formed along the slip near the Yaidom's ship. The HMS Jethro Kendi fired a gun salute as the RON Brigadier sailed into Vicuna Bay. Empress Javette stood with Emperor Stark, both in full military dress, decorated with awards earned by years in service. The soldiers of the Imperial Guard's First Division formed in deep ranks along the sides of a well decorated walkway, behind the Tank Regiment, who formed an arch with the 76mm guns of their M4 tanks, joined by sabers of the dismounted personnel.

[Rannoria]

Manticore

To: Grayman-Manticorian Foreign Ministry

Ah, of course. Terribly sorry for the long reply. I shall be over in a matter of moments. If you do not mind, I shall also bring Gonshu Kalle Rotmeg with me to discuss the situation about Barrum. A ship carrying the name "RON-Brigadier" shall be the ship I am on.

I will see you there, Yaidom Toko Yanab

And off was the Yaidom in his first diplomatic mission. It was also about time that someone continued the inquiry about Barrum. Another nation had promised that they along with several others would cash in to purchase the colony, but never continued with the purchase. It took time to travel the Deruhn Sea, but while on the ship, he and Kalle Rotmeg discussed.

Aboard the RON-Brigadier
"Kalle, as ready as we are to pen off the Barrum colony, we must also consider Manticore. They are strong. Very strong. They almost encompass half the globe. Tensions are rising up between the western and eastern hemisphere, and we must consider what side we are on. Maybe we shouldn't have agreed to this after all."

"It's too late now, Toko. You know that. We've waited long enough anyway, and we could use a strong ally. Although, you may be right. Hypothetically, if Manticore does dominate the world, and we are their ally, we will be nothing but a puppet on one more string. They would have the power to invade us anytime."

There was a silence between the two, but it was broken by the Yaidom. "Let's not think about that, shall we?" A bell rung, and the two heard it. "Come on, it's supper."

The soldiers of the Empress's Own Guard's Tank Regiment formed along the slip near the Yaidom's ship. The HMS Jethro Kendi fired a gun salute as the RON Brigadier sailed into Vicuna Bay. Empress Javette stood with Emperor Stark, both in full military dress, decorated with awards earned by years in service. The soldiers of the Imperial Guard's First Division formed in deep ranks along the sides of a well decorated walkway, behind the Tank Regiment, who formed an arch with the 76mm guns of their M4 tanks, joined by sabers of the dismounted personnel.

Salutations, World!

Vicuna Bay, the Manticorian-Grayman Empire
The Brigadier docked at shore. On the mast, the new Rannorian diplomatic symbol flew in the wind, accompanied by the Rannorian flag itself. Soon enough, two figures were seen on the deck of the Brigadier. The two were Kalle Rotmeg, and Toko Yanab. They were impressed by the greetings the Manticorians had given them, being quite honorable for the two, as no Rannorian official has ever set foot on Manticorian land. Finally, as they walked past it all, they greeted both Empress Javette and Emperor Stark with a deep bow.

"It is an honor to meet both of you," the Yaidom said, returning from the bow. "I am quite sure you already know me, though I am not sure you have met one of my Gonshus, Kalle Rotmeg. He is the governor of the Barrum colony, and he will be here to discuss the situation there." Kalle nodded, and he looked around.

"Quite a grand port. A grand port indeed..."

At Home
It has finally come.

The renovation of the Rannorian naval and land forces had arrived, which has not been changed since 1870 prior.

Here is a list comprising of the base blueprints for the new navy and firepower corps.

Mollusc Class Ships

(Based off the SMS Nautilus)

Fire Class Ships

(Based off SMS Scarnhorst)

Marketer Class Ships

(Based off SMS Thüringen)

Teros Class Ships

(Based off Bellerophon-class battleships)

Strongman Carriers

The Strongman Carriers are a series of self-propelled artillery that will be carried by machines such as tank chassises. Unlike the somewhat spiritual predecessors of the Strongman, the Strongman will provide an amount of maneuverability on the field. Artillery to be put on the Strongman include the,

Model-PS manpower cannons

Model-PS commoner cannons

Aider Tanks

The Aider Tanks are the development of a tank series that pushes off quite a bit after its predecessors. Although there is only one model right now, the Aider Mk. 1 (displayed as the Aider Tank general profile for now), there are plans that the series will continue later on.

And that's it for progress. Quite far, but other nations have progressed further. The industrial boom Sios Adance had been destroyed after the second civil war, but it's recovering. Factories and mining areas were destroyed or ruined, but there are plans to bring Rannoria back to industry, in spite of the Yaidom's views. Currently, they are being rebuilt, though time will have to take its affect.

[The Traansval]

London Docks
London
The North Cape Staat
Verenigde Staten van Traansval (United States of The Traansval)
1911

The large freighter ships came into port, 5 of them slipping in under the light of the full moon, illuminating their shiny decks as well as the hulls of their Vloot Escorts. The large ships came to bear at the docks of the large seaport, dropping anchor as large cranes moved to pick up the large metal boxes that lay on her deck. Picking one up, the crane brought it down to the stone dock, setting it down gently in front of a amassed group of men in clothes ranging from Suits to Army Dress Uniforms. Two soldiers came forward and pried open the doors of the container, displaying its contents.

A man in a rather dapper suit of light brown had stepped in front of the now open door, addressing the crowd. He was a Engineer by trade, a scientist working for the Boer Government. Recently back from Foreign Assignment to Manticore, working on Project Dawn. A glance up would reveal the docks had been shut down, with soldiers patroling the perimeter to ensure no one would wander or sneak their way in. Dawn was to be kept secret until the weapons were unveiled to the world. The Engineer, one Matthew Perry, coughed gently into his hand. This cold was going to be the death of him.

Matthew Perry: Terribly sorry for the cold gentlemen, but the weather changes for no man nor occasion. Still, might i introduce you to a sample of the fruits of our labors. One of the first 500 models produced abroad in Manticore. These ships contain about a quarter of the total number of the 500, the rest are in varying stages of being Enroute to the Traansval.

Inside the now open container, the first of the BAV-21 Sherman Tank line was shown. It was produced as the Boer response to the developments by nations such as Manticore or Wargloria. It was a light tan color, with a staut barrel sticking out of its front turrent, the barrel of a machine gun could be seen sticking out of its front, a small bit of
space above it for aiming the damn thing.

Matthew Perry: Now gentlemen, let us head inside to discuss this further.

Nodding their heads, the men went inside as soldiers quickly moved to the containers, beginning the process of moving the Panzer's from the docks to the waiting trains. Moving inside to a small dock house, the men gathered around a table, pouring themselves glasses of spirits and lighting up cigars.

Matthew Perry: Now gentlemen, i've spent years working overseas with our allies, and also looking at other nations tanks, and i've come to a idea. You see, in nations like Manticore, they have multiple types of tanks. They have Light Tanks, Medium tanks, and Heavy Tanks. All of them are very radically different from each other, with only small things in the design linking them together. However, i find that instead what is far better, is that we have one tank and we produce Variations on it for different purposes. I have blueprints for the main variants for us to produce.

Taking out multiple rolls of blueprints, he lays them on the table for the gentlemen.

Matthew Perry: The first you have already seen. The BAV-21 Light Tank. 2 inch armor, and a 75mm Gun. Second up is the BAV-21A1 Medium Tank. Sporting a all around 4 inch armor with a extra 2 inches of armor added on at the front, still using that 75mm Gun, its better for assaults on fortified positions. Thirdly, we have the BAV-21A2, which has a special 76.2mm Gun which is designed for Penetration of enemy armor, and has a overall armor of 4 inches. Lastly, we have the BAV-21A3, which is equipped with a 105mm Howitzer, and 8 inch armor. Its to be used as a Self Propelled Gun against fortifications.

One of the men, who wore a Black Beret a top his head which displayed a badge of two wings meeting at a Boar's head in the center, spoke up from behind him. The man was Kaptein Ludvig of the Lug Korp's Vlieg Korp, or Flying Corp.

Kaptein Lugvig: What of the Flieger model 1910? We've seen great results from the 10 models sent over before, we're eager to begin arming the Korp with these Flugzeug's.

Matthew Perry: Ah yes, the Flieger! 250 Manticoran Production models are currently en route, a couple of days behind our ships. They'll be transported to the air base at Fort Fraunt to be distributed by the Vlieg Korp.

Kaptein Lugvig: Wonderful. I eagerly expect them. How long until we can begin domestic production?

Matthew Perry: By now the Factories in the Orange Free State will be in the final stages of tooling for production. Hopefully we can begin to put out new Flieger's and Panzers within a few months.\

With a loud cheer, the men around the table in the building raised their glasses in celebration, while outside hundreds of men milled about moving the weapons of war off the ships to the small rail station and its waiting train.

[The Manticoran Empire]

The soldiers of the Empress's Own Guard's Tank Regiment formed along the slip near the Yaidom's ship. The HMS Jethro Kendi fired a gun salute as the RON Brigadier sailed into Vicuna Bay. Empress Javette stood with Emperor Stark, both in full military dress, decorated with awards earned by years in service. The soldiers of the Imperial Guard's First Division formed in deep ranks along the sides of a well decorated walkway, behind the Tank Regiment, who formed an arch with the 76mm guns of their M4 tanks, joined by sabers of the dismounted personnel.

Salutations, World!

Vicuna Bay, the Manticorian-Grayman Empire
The Brigadier docked at shore. On the mast, the new Rannorian diplomatic symbol flew in the wind, accompanied by the Rannorian flag itself. Soon enough, two figures were seen on the deck of the Brigadier. The two were Kalle Rotmeg, and Toko Yanab. They were impressed by the greetings the Manticorians had given them, being quite honorable for the two, as no Rannorian official has ever set foot on Manticorian land. Finally, as they walked past it all, they greeted both Empress Javette and Emperor Stark with a deep bow.

"It is an honor to meet both of you," the Yaidom said, returning from the bow. "I am quite sure you already know me, though I am not sure you have met one of my Gonshus, Kalle Rotmeg. He is the governor of the Barrum colony, and he will be here to discuss the situation there." Kalle nodded, and he looked around.

"Quite a grand port. A grand port indeed..."

At Home
It has finally come.

The renovation of the Rannorian naval and land forces had arrived, which has not been changed since 1870 prior.

Here is a list comprising of the base blueprints for the new navy and firepower corps.

Mollusc Class Ships

(Based off the SMS Nautilus)

Fire Class Ships

(Based off SMS Scarnhorst)

Marketer Class Ships

(Based off SMS Thüringen)

Teros Class Ships

(Based off Bellerophon-class battleships)

Strongman Carriers

The Strongman Carriers are a series of self-propelled artillery that will be carried by machines such as tank chassises. Unlike the somewhat spiritual predecessors of the Strongman, the Strongman will provide an amount of maneuverability on the field. Artillery to be put on the Strongman include the,

Model-PS manpower cannons

Model-PS commoner cannons

Aider Tanks

The Aider Tanks are the development of a tank series that pushes off quite a bit after its predecessors. Although there is only one model right now, the Aider Mk. 1 (displayed as the Aider Tank general profile for now), there are plans that the series will continue later on.

And that's it for progress. Quite far, but other nations have progressed further. The industrial boom Sios Adance had been destroyed after the second civil war, but it's recovering. Factories and mining areas were destroyed or ruined, but there are plans to bring Rannoria back to industry, in spite of the Yaidom's views. Currently, they are being rebuilt, though time will have to take its affect.

"It is a great pleasure to finally meet you, Yaidom," the Empress said, gesturing for him to proceed her to the waiting motorcade.

[The Manticoran Empire]

March to Shievak

It was mid day, and the sun was enjoyable at this time of years.
Many soldiers were in Trucks, an smaller ammont was marching.
The Skartenian Army had decided to move their troopers.
It was spring, and this way, they didn't have to go through the valley. They instead optioned to travel through the fields of Ogfpopo.
The Biplanes (Delivered on the last batch of Reinforcements), would scout ahead, ready to spot enemy forces.
While that ,At Skarten

To:Manticoran Navy
From:Skartenian Military

WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU, REMOVE THE BLOCKADE.

To: Skartenian High Command
From: Manticoran High Command

You are in no position to make demands. The war in Shievak is disrupting our trade in the region and is a direct threat to Manticoran citizens and their interests. You are hereby instructed to seek peace with Shievak or we shall use all necessary force to defend the Empire and her Citizens.

[Rannoria]

Salutations, World!

Vicuna Bay, the Manticorian-Grayman Empire
The Brigadier docked at shore. On the mast, the new Rannorian diplomatic symbol flew in the wind, accompanied by the Rannorian flag itself. Soon enough, two figures were seen on the deck of the Brigadier. The two were Kalle Rotmeg, and Toko Yanab. They were impressed by the greetings the Manticorians had given them, being quite honorable for the two, as no Rannorian official has ever set foot on Manticorian land. Finally, as they walked past it all, they greeted both Empress Javette and Emperor Stark with a deep bow.

"It is an honor to meet both of you," the Yaidom said, returning from the bow. "I am quite sure you already know me, though I am not sure you have met one of my Gonshus, Kalle Rotmeg. He is the governor of the Barrum colony, and he will be here to discuss the situation there." Kalle nodded, and he looked around.

"Quite a grand port. A grand port indeed..."

At Home
It has finally come.

The renovation of the Rannorian naval and land forces had arrived, which has not been changed since 1870 prior.

Here is a list comprising of the base blueprints for the new navy and firepower corps.

Mollusc Class Ships

(Based off the SMS Nautilus)

Fire Class Ships

(Based off SMS Scarnhorst)

Marketer Class Ships

(Based off SMS Thüringen)

Teros Class Ships

(Based off Bellerophon-class battleships)

Strongman Carriers

The Strongman Carriers are a series of self-propelled artillery that will be carried by machines such as tank chassises. Unlike the somewhat spiritual predecessors of the Strongman, the Strongman will provide an amount of maneuverability on the field. Artillery to be put on the Strongman include the,

Model-PS manpower cannons

Model-PS commoner cannons

Aider Tanks

The Aider Tanks are the development of a tank series that pushes off quite a bit after its predecessors. Although there is only one model right now, the Aider Mk. 1 (displayed as the Aider Tank general profile for now), there are plans that the series will continue later on.

And that's it for progress. Quite far, but other nations have progressed further. The industrial boom Sios Adance had been destroyed after the second civil war, but it's recovering. Factories and mining areas were destroyed or ruined, but there are plans to bring Rannoria back to industry, in spite of the Yaidom's views. Currently, they are being rebuilt, though time will have to take its affect.

"It is a great pleasure to finally meet you, Yaidom," the Empress said, gesturing for him to proceed her to the waiting motorcade.

"Thank you, noble empress." As Toko bowed down again. Soon enough, all of them would be in the motorcade, and the Yaidom along with the Gonshu had questions in their mind.

"So," Kalle started, "Our lands in Barrum lay fertile and without much rebellion. Peace reigns there. Although there might be a few issues if you decide to purchase it, it is still quite rich. Fortunately, oil, the primary resource there, isn't too required in the Rannorian war machine, and we already have several herbs in our homeland. Mining sites are also located in the colony, though I do have to warn you, there is a small mountain range where hostile tribes reside. Close the area off to any future Manticorians who decide to live there unless they are under military personnel... that is, if you do purchase the colony. We would also like to hear further negotiations at our destination, or currently."

[Skarten]

March to Shievak

It was mid day, and the sun was enjoyable at this time of years.
Many soldiers were in Trucks, an smaller ammont was marching.
The Skartenian Army had decided to move their troopers.
It was spring, and this way, they didn't have to go through the valley. They instead optioned to travel through the fields of Ogfpopo.
The Biplanes (Delivered on the last batch of Reinforcements), would scout ahead, ready to spot enemy forces.
While that ,At Skarten

To:Manticoran Navy
From:Skartenian Military

WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU, REMOVE THE BLOCKADE.

To: Skartenian High Command
From: Manticoran High Command

You are in no position to make demands. The war in Shievak is disrupting our trade in the region and is a direct threat to Manticoran citizens and their interests. You are hereby instructed to seek peace with Shievak or we shall use all necessary force to defend the Empire and her Citizens.

To:Manticoran High Command

NUTS

From:Skartenian Military