(Open) IC 1870 REAL-WORLD RP

by **Seljuq Kyiv** » Sat Dec 28, 2013 1:14 am

THE KINGDOM OF EGYPT
AL-MAMLAKAH AL-MISRIYYAH

AHMAD ORABI PASHA

Berbera, Egyptian Punt
17 August 1870

While total and utter pacification of the hinterlands and the full subjugation of the native Somali populace was not yet at hand, Somaliland, lawfully and practically, belonged in its entirety to the nascent Kingdom. The string of pearls that made up its coastal city states had been brought to their knees, vanquished or surrendered. Resistance in the hills and the deserts remained, but resistance was futile at best.

But it mattered little; today was a day of celebration.

Under a sweltering sun, the local princes and potentates of the Warsangali Sultanate sat in a row, attended to by ebon slaves holding aloft silken parasols to keep the heat at bay. Chilled tea was passed around, much obliged, and all made an effort to look their best. Flanking them were their bodyguards bedecked in rich panoply and pomp, though it had done little to defend the sovereignty of their nation.

One by one they took their place facing the assembled audience of the townspeople, relinquishing all authority, formal or informal, to the Citadel, surrendering all their powers and their right to rule over their respective peoples. One by one they gave away their metaphorical crowns, slinking away into the obscurity of history.

After a lengthy ceremony, the Somalian flag was lowered, and the Egyptian took its place with pride.

***

Al-Waqa'i`a al-Masriya

Thursday, 15 September 1870

MARONITE REGIMENT LEAVES FOR ROME

ALEXANDRIA — In a fit of utmost joy and festivity, the shores of the Nile bade farewell to 12,000 of its finest Catholic soldiers, who set sail from our lands for the Eternal City of Rome. As a gesture of goodwill, and in response to increasing Italian militarism and irredentism, the Kingdom graciously pledged these troops to the service of the Leonine City to be commanded to the defense of the Papal States.

Authorities have declined to comment as to what it would bode for future Italo-Egyptian relations.

BEDOUIN INCURSION KILLS 23

ABU KAMAL — Bedouins of the Banu Hadid partook in a raid of the Egyptian border town of Abu Kamal on the banks of the Euphrates, killing 23 and wounding 54. The estimated loss of property continues to be calculated.

Hailing from the deserts of Ottoman Iraq, the Turk-aligned Banu Hadid had already conducted raids on unsuspecting caravans and pilgrims on the way to Jerusalem throughout the past few weeks, but such had become the norm under the misguidance and mismanagement of the Sublime Porte.

However, an outright act of war, as some have called it, becomes a staggering blow to the prestige of the fledgeling Kingdom. What more from trusted friends who have been bound in a strict non-aggression pact with the Egyptian government. This should come as no surprise from the Porte that had surrendered Egypt to the Western Powers for its own interests.

Witness France laid low. The Sphinx does not take kindly to betrayal.

by **The Norrland** » Sat Dec 28, 2013 5:14 am

23rd November 1870

New Stockholm

More and more houses were coming up across the few acres of land that the Swedish settlers had claimed so far, and the future looked good for Swedish colonists. They had regular shipments from Stockholm, and their food supplies were being maintained at a constant level. They had wells and hand pumps to obtain water from underground, and they had a few reliable ones at that. Most houses were made of thin wood that had been whitewashed, so they wouldn't get as hot. The windows were wide and frequent to make sure there was plenty of heat loss, and so the sea breeze could get in. The settlers were content with their situation, and they could begin searching the nearby areas for metals and gold.

9th September 1870

Drottingholm Palace

Felix Lindholm, a Swedish diplomat, was sitting in front of the King. He had been called here as he was to be the Swedish representative at the Hanover Conference. This was going to be the chance he was waiting for to become one of the main diplomats at the King's disposal. King Charles XV was looking at him, and Felix was returning the gaze. The King leaned forward, beginning to speak.
"I assume you know why I have summoned you here today. You are to be our nation's representative at the approaching conference in Hanover. I have chosen you because you are fluent in a number of languages, and I would like to have a new main diplomat that I can trust. Also, I cannot attend due to my promises that I will be at the Egyptian Sultan's official coronation, and the talks at the conference will conflict with this event. Can you represent our country fittingly?" King Charles asked.
"Yes, Your Majesty." Felix nodded.
"Good. You will be leaving this afternoon. Arrangements have been made for your stay at the Hotel in Hanover where the talks shall be held. Good luck. Represent our country well, Felix." The King leaned back into his chair.
"I will do my best, Your Majesty." Felix said, before rising and leaving the room.

That afternoon, at 3:00pm, Felix was sitting on a train headed for Malmo, where he would board a ship headed for Lubeck, Germany. He was anxious to see who the representatives of each nation would be. He would be honoured if someone important from Britain or Prussia attended, as he was only a small diplomat. He was to be accompanied by a small group of guards, and two personal servants while he was abroad.

by **Seljuq Kyiv** » Sat Dec 28, 2013 11:05 pm

THE KINGDOM OF EGYPT
AL-MAMLAKAH AL-MISRIYYAH

To:
The nations of the world

Date: 17 September 1870

Official Communique of the Citadel of Cairo

Peace be upon you,

The King in Cairo prays for your strong and unfailing health, and may prosperity and wealth continue to come your way.

With much delight, His Highness Isma'il Pasha is proud to announce the betrothal of his royal son, His Highness Prince Hasan Ismail Pasha, to Her Highness Elisaveta Gole Danga of Albania, and his royal daughter, Her Highness Princess Fatima Khanum Effendi, to His Highness High Prince Lazo Kozma Danga of Albania.

The Potentate is even more jubilant to invite all heads of state or their representatives and their respective families to the wedding and reception of the two royal couples in Alexandria on the 20th of November 1870.

We await with bated breath your responses and possible attendances to the ceremony to witness the union.

Signed,

Hussein Kamel Pasha
Foreign Secretary of State
Kingdom of Egypt

by **Zumreed** » Sat Dec 28, 2013 11:26 pm

To the Most Honorable Sultan of Egypt, Isma'il Pasha,

Blessings upon you

His Majesty, King Rama, Fifth of His Name, and his Regent Si Suriyawongse pray for your son's longevity and health.

We will be honored to attend this ceremony, and will instruct our newly appointed Ambassador to Egypt to attend the wedding as a Representative of the King and the Siamese Royal Court.

Signed
Htoo Linwein Somrai
Official Court Scribe
United Kingdoms of Siam-Cambodia

by **The Grand Republic of Hannover** » Sun Dec 29, 2013 2:37 pm

Palace of Nariño - Bogota, Colombia
September 15, 1870

Tragedy! The Vice President of Colombia, Mr. Torres, has died this morning while asleep. He couldn't resist the disease he has suffered for various weeks and collapsed suddenly giving his doctors with no time for course of action. Mr. Salgar, the President, was informed of what has happened and as well as his country, was in shock and sunk in sadness. Salgar wrote and published a letter to all his fellow citizens confirming the rumors and paying his respects to the now-gone Vice President. Mr. Sanz was appointed as Vice President of the Republic and was sworn into office by the President the following day. The President decided to appoint Sanz as the new Vice President for his rising popularity among the masses of the country.

With the lifting of the blockade by the United States, Colombian ports began to be busy again. The once empty harbors were now full of merchants from all of Colombia's trade partners. The embargo has given time to the Colombian government to analyze the current port system of the country and improve it in order to make it more efficient and avoid any type of "collapse" for the growing influx of trade. The roads that were once used to transport merchandise and were empty after the embargo, were improved and cleaned. Even though the blockade by the United States harmed the Colombian economy, the government took advantage of the situation to improve Colombia's infrastructure and ports.

The economic reforms created by the government were taking full force now that the economy of Colombia went back to its normal conditions. With no factors harming the trade of the country, investment, merchants, and foreign products were entering the country. Although it was too soon to measure any benefits, the standards of living of the people were expected to rise and certain products were expected to go down in price making it more accessible to all the masses. The banking reform was on full steam and new banking organizations sprung up in the local, regional, and national levels- the internal investment in the Colombian economy was increasing dramatically. Expectations on the Colombian economy and the stability of its government grew with the successful outcome of the blockade crisis.

by **Baja California y Sonora** » Sun Dec 29, 2013 4:21 pm

Mexico

The Veracruz-Mexico City railway, had been a dream for the Mexican government. The dream to establish the railway between the two cities had begun in 1837, however it was never accomplished. Now in 1870, the government decided that they should attempt to finish what they started. The concession was there, so building could begin at anytime. President Juarez himself ordered for a workforce to be assembled. The people who would be constructing the rail would be immigrants from the country-side who would be employed just as in the Villahermosa-Campeche railway.
Apart from the railway which was a sure thing now, the pesky Mayans in Yucatan, continued to stir trouble. In recent months fighting had gotten to the point were Mestizos or Whites refused to enter Yucatan. This was seen as a problem as the region had to be settled by Mexican, to avoid any new independence movements in the region.
Within days an act-freeing prisoners in Mexico City and Puebla, that had committed small offenses, such as theft, was passed. There was one catch, the prisoners and their families would be relocated to Yucatan. There they had establish towns(with forts) and make a Mexican presence in the area.

Guatemala

Guatemala was fully occupied by Mexican troops now. It had been a few days since the occupation of Guatemala City and Diaz, had already assembled for the rebuilding of the city. Soldiers and civilians had been ordered to clear the rubble from the streets and to transport the excess injured to hospitals elsewhere. While so, Diaz had received a letter from the capital, The Juarez administration ordered for Diaz to occupy Yucatan, once duties in Guatemala were finished, as well as sending 2,000 troops into El Salvador

El Salvador had become wreck. Typhoid and Dysentery continued to ravage Mexican camps in El Salvador, so no major advancement had been made. The battle of Barrillos had been a loss for the Mexicans and were forced to retreat back to Zaragoza. Reinforcements had not yet come and the campaign had been turning very unpopular in Mexico. As for the Honduran front, scouts had reported that Tegucigalpa had been besieged, but luckily they managed to push the Salvadorians out. General Luis Pérez Figueroa, had left for Mexico to encourage the government to continue the and war.

Mexico City
War in El Salvador was seen as a failure, while Guatemala had been a regrettable success, there had been no agreeing on the stance of Guatemala in Mexican politics. Some wanted for the country to be annexed others for a free Guatemala, with a pro-Mexican government.
At any case the Guatemalan president was still imprisoned and a treaty had yet to be made. As for pressing matters in Yucatan and the creation of a central bank, removing the catholic church from the state, continue to improve the Mexican economy and society, modernization and centralize his government, had become to stressful for the aging president.
The General in charge of the Salvadorian campaign had met with Juarez, the general requested for more troops to be sent to El Salvador in order to finish the campaign. Skeptical Juarez agreed and ordered Diaz to send 2,000 troops into El Salvador.

by **Of the Quendi** » Thu Jan 02, 2014 7:32 am

The City of Buenos Aires
The Province of Buenos Aires
The Republic of Argentina

Prince Alexander Mikhailovich Gorchakov, Chancellor and Foreign Minister of Russia

November 16th, 1870

It was good to be safely back on land again Prince Alexander Gorchakov concluded with relief as he found his way back home, to the hallowed halls of power where a man such as he ought to roam. Casa Rosada, the presidential palace of Argentina, conveniently located within firing distance of two of admiral Putin's warships, was not the Winter Palace nor the Kremlin but as Gorchakov entered it escorted by a half hundred Russian troops and found it teeming with elderly men dressed in the finest frock coats awaiting Gorchakov's pleasure.

There was variously antipathy and resignation in the eyes of the assembled Argentinian high dignitaries. They knew perfectly well that the ability of the Russian Empire to, against all odds, bring a fleet all the way from Saint Petersburg, encountering no opposition from America or Brazil, had doomed them and forced them to sign a humiliating armistice. Against the ironclad war fleet of Russia Argentina could not hope to prevail, president Sarmiento had realized as much.

Therefore Gorchakov was now preparing to sign on behalf of the Russian Empire and armistice under which the Argentine government agreed to call back all of its troops fro Uruguay and Paraguay and Patagonia, as well as a distance of one hundred kilometers from Uruguay, Paraguay and Buenos Aires until a peace was reached. It was the death knell to the unpopular presidency of Sarmiento. Had Gorchakov been a man of much emotion he would have regretted that. Though Sarmiento had never been popular Gorchakov did not doubt that he was a more able man than his caudillo rivals who had already approached Gorchakov pledging support if he enforced the federalization of Argentina. Now Sarmiento's days of power was no doubt at an end. If there was one rule of international politics it was that Latin American leaders did not survive loosing wars.

It even showed on Sarmiento's face as he approached Gorchakov to formally bid him welcome. The man was composed, calm and looked impeccable yet defeat was on his face, in his posture and demeanor. "Shall we Your Excellency." Gorchakov asked politely. For a moment Sarmiento paused. Mercilessly Gorchakov turned toward one of the windows of the Casa Rosada from which he could look into the delta of the Rio Plata where the Russian ironclads loomed ominously over Buenos Aires. Turning back towards the president Gorchakov saw that his gaze too looked towards the ships. "We shall." The man quaked, gesturing for a pen.

[/quote]

by **Aercos** » Thu Jan 02, 2014 12:58 pm

Casa Rosada, Palacio Presidencial de la Nación.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
17 de Noviembre de 1879

Sarmiento took a pen and led the Admiral into the Salón Blanco, a large room with white walls, the presidential band and the National Shield over a cupboard. Sarmiento was clearly nervious, but he had thought of this for a long time. The situation was hopeless. Right, he could tranform himself into the "Saviour of the Nation" and emulating San Martín, start a guerrilla war in the inner Provinces, but he had little friends there and it implied loosing Buenos Aires, and that he could not allow. After looking over the treaty, he raised his head.
"I do believe this is... just a bit too much. You are asking us to empty our capital city." He looked outside the window.
"While I understand your desire for us to move away from Uruguay, I just cannot allow it, it would lead Argentina into another decade of Provincial Wars... I would suggest in the case of Buenos Aires, the military garrison is limited to, let´s say, the half of what the local forces made. 5 batallions shall do, 2500 men. The other half shall be redeployed to Santa Fe and Mar del Plata. This to maintain order and defend the government buildings."

it was, indeed, quite needed. He planned to cease the war with Uruguay immediately, but as long the situation was so uncertain, he needed to defend the capital. Also, he assumed his days in politics were, at best, counted, and was willing to call for elections as soon he walked out of the room.

by **Gibberan** » Thu Jan 02, 2014 1:47 pm

by **Imperium Nova** » Thu Jan 02, 2014 5:10 pm

The Dominion of Southern Africa

South Africa, Natal, Zulu village
Afternoon

Sir Henry Barkly looked down on the Zulu-tribesman, passionately kissing his shoes for all that his life was worth. This was more than he deserved, the wretched scum. Barkly did not know his name, nor did he care. He was but one of many who had been brought up to him to receive the honour of laying their mouths on the General-Governor's shoes, which were almost more black than the skin of the Africans. Barkly gazed away from the man, looking up to see the rest of the captured Zulus, standing in nothing more than a loincloth, if even that much. Barbarians, he thought to himself. It is good that God had graced them with the British presence, to teach them the correct ways of life. For they would learn it, either by the book or the boot, Barkly did not care which one. Though these Zulus seemed to prefer the latter.

He rose up, slightly kicking away the African who was clinging by his feet.
"Have all the negroes been rounded up?" He asked, turning his gaze towards one of the officers, standing besides the large improvised throne on which he sat on. The man saluted, a captain.
"Yes, Your Excellency. These negroes are the only surviving. The rest of them were killed in the battle, or shot as they were fleeing, the cowards." Barkly looked down on the Zulu, who did not even care to wipe the dirt off his torso and back, simply lying on the ground. Lazy creatures.

"Then get them moving, Send them to Durban." Some of the Africans, who could apparently understand some English gasped, seemingly shocked. "Torch the village." He ended, and the captain smiled as he ordered the rest of the soldiers to comply with their orders, grabbing the Zulu and pushing them on their way south-west, there they would at least come to some use. Two British soldiers grabbed the African on the ground dragging him away from the Governor-General as he stepped down on the soil. The first Zulu hut was put in flames, the dry houses crackling in the fire, and burning up like it was nothing. Barkly was pleased as he made his way back to his tent.

Barkly opened the flap to the tent, and stepped in, feeling the cool air mixing with the hot and humid climate from outside. He took off his hat and whiffed abit with it, to cool down. He then went and sat down in his chair, and had barely sat down before the flap opened, and a gush of hot air came streaming in again. It was a messenger.
"Your Excellency." the Messenger said, and bowed, holding a message in his hands.
"Well, what is the matter then? Come, sit, have a glass of water." The Governor-General said as he took two glasses and poured up some water from a container. It was still cold.
"Thank you, Your Excellency." The Messenger said, as he approached, took a glass of water after the Governor-General had taken his, and then downed it in one go.

"Good," said the Governor-General, sipping a bit on his own glass. "Now, what is the occasion?"
"There has come a message, Your Excellency, from the Swedish colony of New Stockholm. I'll read it for Your Excellency." He said and then rolled out the message.

To: Governor of British South Africa
From: The Swedish colony of New Stockholm
Greetings,
We have set up our colony north of your lands, and we hope that our two nations will be able to cooperate and live in peace together. We hope we can set up some kind of regular convoy of food and other essentials to be sent from your lands to ours. We shall be able to pay you, of course, with money or something else perhaps.
Signed,
Felix Svensson
Governor of New Stockholm

"Hmm..." Barkly said as he sipped on his glass some more, the messenger seeming awfully thirsty even after just a short bit of reading. "Well, please, help yourself to the water. I have more." The Governor-General said, and the messenger was glad to hear it.
"So, the Swedish have set up a colony nearby. Interesting. Well, let's respond to them then. Not to be rude. They are here for the same mission as us. Write up a new message." The Governor-General said as the messenger had just taken another gulp of the water.

"Write the following."

The Dominion of Southern Africa
The British Empire

To the Governor of New Stockholm

Upon Her Majesty Alexandrina Victoria, the Queen of the British Empire, by the Grace of God, I, the Governor-General of the Dominion of Southern Africa, hereby responds to your message sent regarding aid to the newly established colony of New Stockholm.

I would first and foremost like to know the exact location of this new colony. After that I would be prepared to take up negotiations regarding future trade between the two colonies. All in the name of assistin the white man's burden and the civilisation of the Dark Continent

Sir Henry Barkly
Governor-General of the South African Dominion

"Good, now send it away boy." The Governor-General said as the messenger bowed and then exited, followed closely by the Governor-General, this time they were also met with a wave of heat, but far more excruciating than the earlier ones, and they both looked on the destruction of the Zulu village, which was now fully engulfed in flames.
"God's speed." The Governor-General said and the messenger scurried off.

by **The Norrland** » Fri Jan 03, 2014 3:13 am

To: Sir Henry Barkley, Governor of British South Africa
From: Felix Svensson, Governor of New Stockholm

Greetings,
In response to your message, our colony is situated on the coast, to the north of your lands. We are about 50 miles from your nearest settlement.

Signed,
Felix Svensson
Governor of New Stockholm

by **Seljuq Kyiv** » Fri Jan 03, 2014 3:25 am

THE KINGDOM OF EGYPT
AL-MAMLAKAH AL-MISRIYYAH

EMPEROR TU DUC

Huế, Đại Nam
Late October

Depending on who you were and where you were from, today may have been a good day.

If you were one of the colonial detachment from Cochinchina sent to annex the lands of the north, it would have been a bittersweet day, for the awful fighting was over, at such a cost. If you were one of the Egyptian colonists that had disembarked from Suez to work on the new plantation lands, you would have been overjoyed to observe the grand rolling hills, fertile and ready for commercial agriculture. If you were an Egyptian general, you would have been pleased to see an Oriental nation crushed before your wake.

If you were Egyptian, it would have been a good day. But such a case would not have applied to most of the natives who were now under Egyptian care.

More importantly, any member of the Nguyễn dynasty would have been appalled, sickened, or even embarrassed at such a large loss. The treaty that they had signed, declaring the lands of Annam under the protection of Egypt and making it a de facto colony, would not have been one that brought honour to the family.

To be fair, it was more of an armistice than a surrender. Egypt was new to the imperial practice of power projection, and its casualties, while not as bad as that of Đại Nam, were still horrific.

Still, there had been worse days, and being a tributary of a distant kingdom had more perks than being one of a closer empire. Besides, they were guaranteed their personal governance and a healthy stipend, and they were permitted to live in their lavish palaces and technically rule, though with the consent of the Egyptian Governor. The native religions and practices were also protected, and in return all was asked was the protection of missionaries and their proselytes.

All this could have been avoided were it not for the suppression and massacre of Christians the month before.

***

by **Glasgia** » Fri Jan 03, 2014 5:45 am

18th November, 1870

Dawn, Paris, People's Commune of France

“Read all about it! Read all about it! Bourgeoisie fleet seized in harbour at Nantes!” The paper boy watched as hundreds rushed past him, all possible customers. He called out as loud as his lungs could carry his small voice, attempting to attract the attention of any with wallet or purse. However, his main concern was directed elsewhere. He was not the only one who looked towards a small group of National Guard officers, their faces painted with concerned looks.

It was just a couple of months prior when the foreigners had entered Paris. When they had done so, destruction was brought to everything and everyone. Even before the first soldiers made their way into the historic city, raping and pillaging, their artillery had already decimated man and building alike. All bore the scars forged upon them by those strange conquerors, some with harsh accents and others with dark skin. Born then was a fear still prevalent.

The small assembly soon dispersed and the boy returned to crying out the headlines. According to the man who'd handed over his load of papers, the “fleet” was closer to a fishing fleet than a battle armada. Nonetheless, the man conceded, it was a victory over the Capitalists when few victories could be told of. People wanted to hear of the bourgeoisie's defeats and therefore that's what the paper would tell. It kept all involved with a steady income, something that was scarce in the streets of Paris.

Midday, Nice

Nicolas gave the prisoner an icy smile, watching as the man struggled to his feet in defiance of his bonds. As he rose, he clenched his bloodied hands on the adjacent wall – Also stained with his own blood. Then, in a cruel moment as he appeared to reach his full height, he was struck down again. It was an event not unlike that which had befallen the French many a time and perhaps in another world the man would've nodded sympathetically with the comparison. In, unknown to Nicolas, this man had owned a small newspaper – one of his family's many possessions within the city - which may have once issued such commentaries. However, it would only be a single word in that sentence which would've caught Nicolas' attention. Owned.

To him, and many others who now fought under the red banner of the People's Home Guard, this was more than an occupation. As they swept in to secure the lands abandoned by the great powers, the previous occupiers, they created their own war to fight. As local militias and troops of the provisional government desperately defended their towns, to Nicolas those men fought for the old – For Capitalism, the bourgeoisie and repression. The man opposite him was an officer not because of skill but because of finance and inheritance. Meanwhile, Nicolas was a veteran of the old National Guard who'd risen through the ranks of the Communards – Fighting for the new, for the people.

The Home Guard had done battle on that agenda and, for the most part, it was winning. Wherever the foreigners left, they had moved quickly to take and subdue opposition within the area. They did not dare risk antagonising the powers who had crushed the old regime, yet they pushed the boundaries of the Commune as far as possible. The Fourth Guard Regiment's capture of Nice, part of the Third Division's southern campaign, was part of a larger strategy. Speed was essential, with mounted troops racing through the countryside in order to secure their supplies while the veterans of past wars fought in urban warfare. The Provisional government had armed many civilians within the cities and fighting was often fierce, the old regime successfully convincing many Frenchmen that the Commune sought only to bring slaughter to their towns. The Commune reasoned that veterans of their own barricades were best suited to defeating other barricades and so the Home Guard's best regiments were not composed of former grenadiers but of the most experienced revolutionaries.

Late Afternoon, Communal Council, Paris, People's Commune of France

“Our city is in ruins! Our people have been slaughtered! Our banks destroyed! And you, my friend, wish to de-fund our military in favour of financing the forces of Capitalism?” Blanqui made his voice clear across the debate hall, its rooms filled with various Parisian citizens. Many would only arrive later, when voting began, yet the debate was still an integral part of the legislative process. For the moment, Blanqui's strong and emotive language appeared to have won the upper hand – Yet his opponent was not finished.

“You misunderstand me, comrade. In these troubled times, we cannot afford to abandon the hard working people of our nation. These subsidies will finance worker and manager alike, providing for the essentials of business to rise from the ashes of our cities.” Benoît Malon stood across from Blanqui, the unofficial leader of reformist factions within the Commune. It had only been from Malon's opposition to dictatorship that the democracy had been established, his leadership displacing much of Blanqui's support. Together they were the two political powerhouses within the Communal Council and therefore such a major ideological issue fell to them to debate.

Having implemented a number of social welfare schemes together, financed from the seizure of a number of expensive properties from the Bourgeoisie, Malon now looked to expand the state's economic net with subsidies to small businesses. Blanqui, on the other hand, felt such schemes would simply allow small private businesses to expand and create a new Bourgeoisie while the state continued to tax in order to provide for further provisions – Something he could not tolerate as a revolutionary and anarchist. However, his grip on the Communal Council appeared to be slowly fading recently, as a wider and less radical selection of Parisian citizens began to attend Communal meetings.

“And at what price? Our military is still in the process of reclaiming our lands from foreign forces, yet you want to reduce the funding to waste money on your pet projects?” Malon smiled. Blanqui had fallen right into his trap.

“But do they truly need more funds, comrade? We shall never be able to defend ourselves from foreign occupiers, not for many years, while the Capitalists of our country are falling lie flies. Meanwhile, our workers starve because they none can afford to provide the jobs needed. Our subsidies will be able to create tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of jobs throughout the towns and cities of this Commune. Would you deny these people that?” Blanqui suppressed the grimace inside of him. The crowd appeared to support Malon. Whatever impression they gave to their friends and families would likely influence the vote greatly, meaning he had to act soon. A compromise, perhaps was in order.

“Perhaps comrade, those jobs are needed. But, as I have stressed before, we cannot afford to grant money to private businesses – Do you wish to return to the old days of oppression and Capitalism? It would surely be better to fund the worker directly, rather than his opressor. If we could come to an agreement, then it would benefit all. Would you be willing to cut down your subsidies to only Soviets within our lands, rather than the Capitalists you proposed originally to fund.” Malon sighed. This would be a long day of compromise and compare, but hopefully he could push his reforms at the end of it. Voting had become an integral part of public life in the new Commune and he could depend on the reformists and moderates backing him over Blanqui, assuming the right wing would rather abstain over a choice of evils.

Evening, Central Comittee, Paris, People's Commune of France

“You lost the vote?” Gustave Flourens questioned the First Minister with a hint of disappointment. As both a politician and elected General, he'd hoped military cuts could be postponed till his campaign was finished.

“Indeed. The people want jobs now, more than they value their lives later it seems. Still, I forced Malon to rewrite it to a compromise. The new scheme should cost no more than a hundred thousand francs, about the cost of your new regiments – I'd suggest you scrap that enlistment rather than any current funding.” Blanqui watched as Flourens accepted his suggestion silently, before continuing.

“We need to make a statement, to show externally that these cuts do not mean any weakening. I intend to call for an end to foreign occupation, with co-operation between our forces and those of the other powers. I doubt any will agree, but I'll try nonetheless.”

☭

Dear the Respective Kaisers of North Germany, South Germany and Austria,
Leaders of the German People,

I understand that, since the founding of this state, we have not been greatly co-operative. I acknowledge your victories over the French people and, as such, do not wish to challenge your authority within occupied regions.

However, the current situation is far from satisfactory. As leader of the French people, I cannot ignore a continued oppression of their right to independence and occupation from foreign powers, however great those powers may be. The People's Commune seeks to bring freedom to the entirety of France not simply the cities it took with the tides of revolution.

Therefore, I request co-operation in the securing of France as an ally against the old French regime – a regime to whom you lost many men in battle. While we may differ ideologically, we can fight together on that front at least. I should note that the People's Commune does nt lay claim to any colonial possessions of the former French Empire and would be willing to officially grant you possession of those not already occupied by foreign powers – You may still have to do battle with guns against their garrisons and with words against the world, but it could aid you greatly in the latter task.

I await your reply eagerly,

Louis Auguste Blanqui,
First Minister of the Central Comittee of the People's Commune of France

by **Kryskov** » Fri Jan 03, 2014 9:02 am

TO: Mr. Blanqui of Socialist French

Sir,

We wish to inform you that your congregation is violating the United Kingdom's guarantee of the Third Republic's council and constitution. Therefore, you have 48 hours after the dispatch of this telegram to disband and disperse, else you be in a state of conflict with the United Kingdom.

Sincerely,
Prime Minister W.E. Gladstone

With the increasing instability of France, Britain mobilized twelve of its ironclads to the Cherbourg Peninsula and started to mobilize nearly 200,000 troops.

(OOC: Typed this up on the phone, sorry if this is short)

by **Timothia** » Fri Jan 03, 2014 12:59 pm

The Empire of Brazil
Lisbon, Portugal

She didn't look the same as she once did, but that was to be expected. She had aged considerably, the stress and pressure of life in Europe was weighing on her as heavily as the pain of the moment. She appeared to be as shocked as Pedro was. Her eyes grew large when she saw him: the young man she had left had grown into a wise, intelligent, and very significant man. She saw the weight on his shoulders as if it were visible. It was as if each mile of Brazil had been heaped upon his shoulders, and he struggled to bear it all. He didn't see it in himself, but she saw it in him.

They saw one another from a distance, but instantly recognized one another.

There were tears shed on the ride to the Janelas Verdes Palace, tears of both joy and sorrow. Pedro felt strikingly sad at the way his step-mother was so sickly. He introduced her to Teresa, whom she had never met. But all that mattered for the five day stay was that Pedro and his long-lost step-mother, Amélie, were together once again. It wasn't taken for granted they would see one another again because Amélie was so sickly and aged, but Pedro left the palace with a promise to return before the voyage back to Brazil.

Andorra

The trip through Spain had been somewhat-rushed. They had only planned on staying in Lisbon for two days and had wound up staying for five, so their stops in Spain were limited. They bypassed many of the cities they had planned to visit and ended up staying overnight in Barcelona. It was a fine city, and it came across to Dom Pedro II as being very unique. He thoroughly enjoyed the stay there, despite a small argument with his wife about where they would go next.

In the end, they went to Andorra. It had no railroad leading directly into it, so they had to ride through the Pyrenees in a carriage. it was very bumpy and quite uncomfortable, but this was what Teresa had wanted, so this was what they had decided to do. When they arrived in Andorra, they found that it was a gorgeous and picturesque small city nestled in the mountains. Pedro had been opposed to making the trip, but was breathtaken by the beauty when he arrived. It was no waste of time or energy: it was worth every bump in the road it had taken to get there.

It was in Andorra when a telegram sent to them in Lisbon finally caught up with him which updated the Emperor of the going-ons of the world. He spent a night thinking it over, then sent his replies the next morning.

by **Glasgia** » Fri Jan 03, 2014 1:11 pm

19th November, 1870

Early Morning, Communal Council, Paris, People's Commune of France

"You do not know why you are here, not even our First Minister Comrade Blanqui. It must most unfortunate to wake you all at this time of night, but I must state with all due regret that the British Empire has issued an order for our government to disband within forty eight hours or face war." Heads dropped around the table. Though not unexpected, it was a harsh blow to the Commune's leadership. They had envisioned a Utopia within France, an egalitarian state run by the workers for the workers, but now their dreams looked to be shattered by foreign powers. Unlike the others, Flourens had already resigned to the fact that they were practically at war.

"I received this telegram two hours previous, given to me despite its address to Comrade Blanqui. Since then, I can assure all that the elected leadership of the Home Guard has put all our effort into formulating an effective plan of defence. General Dombrovski, a Pole who came to our cause with much experience from their own January Uprising, will explain our strategy." Flourens stepped aside, allowing the younger man to take the stage. Despite his relative youth, Dombrovski spoke with a grim battle-hardened tone, given greater effect by his accent.

"At this moment in time, the forces which Britain can call into action both greatly outnumber our own and are better equipped for battle. Therefore, we cannot seek to win a complete victory. What we can however manage is to match them in the field with experience and inflict enough casualties upon them for a more favourable surrender." Some agreement was murmured through the room as Dombrovksi continued.

"Therefore, we must choose our battles wisely. As to avoid the British navy, all troops on the north coast have been ordered to destroy possible harbours and retreat inland. The Eight Division are expected to have retreated from Cherbourg by dawn, while the Second are already laying explosives in Nantes. Any naval ships in the Bay of Biscay have been ordered to make haste to Marseilles, while we have no current naval capacity on the Norman coast. These moves are designed to force the Britons to move inland, where we can combat them more effectively.

In order to deal with this invasion, we will unfortunately have to suspend offensive operations against the provisional government for the time being. The Tenth Division has already been withdrawn from combat around Verdun, while the Sixth will abandon its operations in the Alps and the Fourth will do so in Troyes. However, we cannot afford for the Capitalists to combine with any British armies. To save any potential two front war, the Twelfth Regiment of Dragoons are already racing towards Tours to lay siege -- They will be backed up by the rest of the Second Division when their work in Nantes is done. Any questions?" The Committee were revolutionaries and politicians, not military leaders. As such, none attempted to challenge Dombrovski's authoritative strategy and instead they nodded gravely, pretending to understand the military decisions behind such orders. Only Blanqui decided to speak, standing to re-assume authority back from the General.

"I thank Comrade Dombrovski for his conclusion defensive strategy. However, we must avoid battle if possible. The revolution is not yet complete and even our military acknowledges we are unlikely to win this war. I shall attempt to negotiate with the British first, but continue preparations for war nonetheless."

Kryskov wrote:
TO: Mr. Blanqui of Socialist French

Sir,

We wish to inform you that your congregation is violating the United Kingdom's guarantee of the Third Republic's council and constitution. Therefore, you have 48 hours after the dispatch of this telegram to disband and disperse, else you be in a state of conflict with the United Kingdom.

Sincerely,
Prime Minister W.E. Gladstone

With the increasing instability of France, Britain mobilized twelve of its ironclads to the Cherbourg Peninsula and started to mobilize nearly 200,000 troops.

(OOC: Typed this up on the phone, sorry if this is short)

☭

Dear The Right Honourable Prime Minister William Gladstone,

Mr Gladstone, I am sure you are aware of the current political situation within France. If I were to disband my government and disperse the Commune's forces, France would be plunged into sheer anarchy - A state which some may seek to witness in the end, but I assure you that I myself do not. The Provisional Government, yet to proclaim itself either Republic or Monarchy, in Tours has neither the will of the people or the de facto authority to govern them.

Therefore, I urge you to postpone any military action and instead peacefully negotiate with me. The Commune is willing to make political concessions and become a valuable British ally in continental Europe, if you could refrain from any military action and guarantee our independence.

I await your reply eagerly,

Louis Auguste Blanqui,
First Minister of the Central Comittee of the People's Commune of France

by **Of the Quendi** » Sat Jan 04, 2014 12:39 pm

The City of Buenos Aires
The Province of Buenos Aires
The Republic of Argentina

Prince Alexander Mikhailovich Gorchakov, Chancellor and Foreign Minister of Russia

November 16th, 1870

Even if the blame for Russias unsought and unfought war with Argentina was entirely on the Argentinians Gorchakov couldn't help but feel a little bit of empathy with the Argentine president. Small countries should of course not arrogantly posture before great powers but in asking for the president to demilitarize crucial regions, some of which was prone to rebellion Gorchakov asked for much. That, of course, was deliberate. An armistice that permitted the foes of Sarmiento to grow strong would ensure that when time come for a peace treaty to be signed Sarmiento would have proper incentive not to dawdle.

The request not to be forced to demilitarize Buenos Aires was however not unreasonable. "Provided that Argentina withdraws its military forces from all of the Mesopotamia region I suppose the Russian Empire can permit the Argentinian navy to handle the security of your capital." Gorchakov spoke ponderously.

by **Seljuq Kyiv** » Sun Jan 05, 2014 11:52 pm

THE KINGDOM OF EGYPT
AL-MAMLAKAH AL-MISRIYYAH

HUSSEIN KAMEL PASHA

Cairo, Cairo Governate
Late September

Diplomatic Missive - the Kingdom of Egypt

Official Communique of the
Citadel of Cairo

To

The Right Honourable William Ewart Gladstone
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland

Salutations from the Kingdom of Egypt.

We of the land of the Nile have long held the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in high esteem for your tireless endeavours to safeguard the peace and balance of Europe. As such, one could only imagine the utmost sorrow that the lukewarm relations shared between Britain and Egypt as of late may have elicited.

Egypt wishes for no harm nor slight upon the peoples of Britain or its interests, and regardless wishes to make amends, for truly Egypt longs to be good friends and partners with the Isles.

There remained an unresolved issue between Egypt and the United Kingdom, as your good intelligence is aware; a staggering amount of debt accumulated for the past decade. As of this correspondence, the aforementioned debt, amounting to £3,800,000 in full, shall be delivered to the Government of Britain through N M Rothschilds & Sons no later than 31 October 1870.

It is with this transaction that the people of Egypt pray for the establishment of a cordial entente at the very least with the United Kingdom. The purchase of shares of the Universal Suez Company may be further discussed, if that is to be your will.

Signed,

Foreign Secretary Hussein Kamel, Prince of the Mashriq
Kingdom of Egypt

Diplomatic Missive - the Kingdom of Egypt

Official Communique of the
Citadel of Cairo

To

High Born Count Otto of Bismarck-Schönhausen
Chancellor of the North German Confederation

Salutations from the Kingdom of Egypt.

You may, no doubt, remember the conversation we had upon His Majesty the King's coronation on the 20th regarding the state of our alliance.

Answering your inquiries, you have piqued our interest in the prospect of receiving scholarships in Prussian military academies for our aspiring commanders and officers. Egypt further requests the training of Egyptian soldiers and officers by experienced Prussian military experts in order to develop a military tradition in the footsteps of the armoured automaton that is the Confederation.

His Majesty's regards to Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte, our mutual friend, who remains in your benevolent custody.

Signed,

Foreign Secretary Hussein Kamel, Prince of the Mashriq
Kingdom of Egypt

by **Aercos** » Mon Jan 06, 2014 7:07 am

Casa Risada, Palacio Presidencial de la Nación
Buenos Aires, 16 de Noviembre de 1870

Sarmiento looked at Gorchakov with a face that showed a clear worry.
Then I suppose the treaty stands with Argentina evacuating its armed forces from Paraguay and Uruguay and the Mesopotamia. I suppose this implies a recognition of the Argentine Sovereignty over the last region. I would also want it to make clear that this is temporary, and thateventually, our forces will be able to move back into our borders, as it is our right, once the crisis is solved. We will much appreciate the Russian Governemnt guides the region towards such peace.

by **Halleon** » Mon Jan 06, 2014 9:42 am

The Hellenic Kingdom of Greece

Even within the Chambers of Parliament one could sense the feeling unease and hostility of the politicians gathered as the pressure of the Greek People was beginning to grow more daily as their demands continued to be echoed throughout the Kingdom in the streets of major cities. In the towns and villages the people were also echoing the calls for action forcing both King George I and Parliament to consider some form of action to be taken to relieve the pressure against the government and to prevent the power keg of the people from exploding into violence something that the Nationalist Party was gaining great advantages much to the headache of the Hellenic King who sought some form of balance between both parties.

The shouts and yells of the members of Parliament died down as the King rose to speak asking for silence in order to be the voice of reason during these chaotic times. When the chamber regain a sense of silence the crowds outside Parliament could still be heard, restoring a sense of panic and pressure among the Parliament.

Speaking in a confident and reassured tone to those gathered, King George I said the words,"The Hellenic Kingdom of Greece faces a challenging time of change as the majority of Greek People that live in occupied territory still faces Turkish Oppression, none here can deny the truth of that and recent political changes in the region have only highlighted the demands of the Greek People."

"The Greek People have rightfully demanded from the Hellenic Government for action to be taken against the Ottoman Empire to seek the return of land that rightfully belongs to the People of Greece. Further more the recent encroachment of Albania into Greek Territory cannot and will not be ignored. However until the Ottoman Question has been settled the Greek State shall not take any actions against the occupation of Albania upon Greek Lands. We shall not support or condone this Albanian Occupation at this date until negotiations have taken place but we cannot allow these actions to distract us from the Greater Problem and Concern of the Greek People."

Then the King looked up from the papers of his speech to speak directly on the matter to the Parliament,"Already the People have spoken for action to be taken and these demands for actions shall be considered while they are acted upon. Military preparations shall take place for any possible conflict while diplomacy is given its chance to solve the Ottoman Occupation of Greek Territory."

It could not be denied that the King felt that he had been pushed onto this path by the Greek People but he could not ignore or deny them their change to reclaim land that rightfully belong to them. However the state of the government and military would need improvement to see the day of a stronger Greek State.

by **Phoenix2012** » Mon Jan 06, 2014 11:37 am

North German Confederation
Norddeutscher Bund

To His Highness Hussein Kamel, Prince of the Mashriq
Foreign Secretary, Sultanate of Egypt

I do recall our conversation that you have mentioned, and I am sure that we can work out a deal for the mutual good of us both. Perhapse you would care to elaborate your plans further in order to best accomplish the education of your military officers. I wish to speak with you concering the large amounts of ships that you have recently aquired, as I am curious of their future fate. As to monsieur Bonaparte, I assure you that he is doing well, and that no harm has come to him, nor shall there be any.
High Born Count Otto of Bismarck-Schönhausen
Chancellor of the North German Confederation

To Louis Auguste Blanqui,
First Minister of the Central Comittee of the People's Commune of France

Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated. I do also believe that France should not be ruled by foreign powers, but I wish to support a stable government that is supported by the people and will be able to rebuild France into her proud self once more. Such a nation requires responsible leadership. I will have to evaluate many factors before deciding upon the support of any faction within France. However, it would be greatly appreciated if a represenative was sent to Berlin to further discuss details.
High Born Count Otto of Bismarck-Schönhausen
Chancellor of the North German Confederation

by **Glasgia** » Mon Jan 06, 2014 1:05 pm

☭

Dear High Born Count Otto of Bismarck-Schönhausen, Chancellor of the North German Federation,

The Central Committee and I are most pleased at your co-operation. In these hard times, it is a pleasure to be relieved from the bickering of ideological differences and instead speak as one nation to another. I must assure you that the Commune, as suggested in its full name, holds the true support of the French people and will lead them responsibly.

As with your request, we shall send a representative at once to your grand capital of Berlin to discuss matters further.

Yours thankfully,

Louis Auguste Blanqui,
First Minister of the Central Comittee of the People's Commune of France

"And with that, comrades, we must find a representative." Blanqui had read both the North German letter and then his reply to the committee, though neither were particularly groundbreaking. However, it highlighted the North German Federation as a potential ally and that was important in a continent full of enemies.

"I'll go." Léon Auguste raised his hand too volunteer. Blanqui almost sighed, but suddenly the potential struck him. Born Léon Bourgeois, Auguste had taken his middle name for his surname to distinguish himself from the enemies of the revolution. Though often viewed as too Centrist, a Social Liberal rather than a true Socialist, and sometimes even accused of supporting Capitalism, Blanqui realised that Auguste might be just the man. Hopefully, the young Liberal could convince the Prussians that the Commune was not as radical as often claimed.

"Of course Comrade Auguste, unless others object, please make your way to Berlin as soon as possible."

Angleterre Hotel, Berlin, North German Federation

Léon looked up at the room's high ceilings. As a law student before the revolution, he was in no way unfamiliar to the grand buildings that entailed the rise of the bourgeois - If different in architecture, always alike in grandeur from universities to posh hotels. Though he firmly believed in a support of the poor, he did hold a certain nostalgia for the finest of what the Capitalists had accomplished.

Unfortunately for Léon, he was not here to stare at fine construction. Instead, he was a diplomat. The Prussians, of course, did not need embellishments of the story. They knew how brutal much of the fighting had been in those first few days and how the people had suffered under German iron. However, perhaps they did not realise all - Or else support of the Commune would be a clear choice. That was Léon's job, to make them realise all.

by **Phoenix2012** » Mon Jan 06, 2014 3:30 pm

North German Confederation
Norddeutscher Bund

To Santiago Gomez
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia

I look forward to the Presence of the Colombian Delegate, and I confirm that your nation's actions has been executed to my satisfaction. I look forward to the establishment of relations between our nations.
High Born Count Otto of Bismarck-Schönhausen
Chancellor of the North German Confederation

Berlin,North German Confederation
Norddeutscher Bund

Berlin was being prepared for visits from the French Commune and a Colombian delegate, and the Chancellor, Otto Von Bismarck was preparing to journey to Cairo to discuss the Fate of the French, leaving Wilheim to deal with the visitors. Bismarck set off early, in his carriage for the long Journey south. His thoughts wandered to the Pleas of the Commune, and wondered if it would be best to leave France to recover from the war peacefully. Prussian troops still occupied France, even as the war was drawing to a close. Several captured French Ships would reach their ports soon, which had Bismarck worried about the relatively small Prussian Navy. He did not personally want France to be split and divided, as it would greatly upset the Balance of Power. The rising Power of the Egyptian and the Declining Ottoman Empire also worried him endlessly. The Ottoman Empire had been allies of Prussia for Centuries, and the fall of it would have a large impact in the area...

by **Kottonian Noblemen** » Tue Jan 07, 2014 10:54 am

Das Königreich Süddeutschland

To: Louis Auguste Blanqui,
First Minister of the Central Comittee of the People's Commune of France

Monsieur Blanqui,

you are right when you said that we are at war. And you are also right when you said that we are at war with the Empire of France. We do not have any hostilities against the Commune. We are ready to withdraw our troops from french territory and cease fighting immidiatly. Unfortunatly we can't show any serious interest in your former colonies, due to the fact that we do not have a direct access to the sea. However, we will support your government and people in their fights against the old Imperial Government, but only under one condition;
The new France will accept and that the Rhineland-Palatinate was bavarian, is bavarian and will always be bavarian. We would be appreciated if you could send a diplomat to Munich so we can discuss matters of diplomacy and formalities.
With respect,
Ludwig II. King of Bavaria and the Kingdom of Southern Germany

by **Glasgia** » Tue Jan 07, 2014 12:39 pm

☭

Dear King Ludwig the Second of Bavaria and the South Germans,

It is with a great satisfaction that I received your reply. The Central Committee recognises the length at this will aid the French people and therefore I must thank you fully for your co-operation. We will comply with your terms immediately, recognising the Rhineland-Palatinate as German lands, and send a representative to Munich as soon as is possible, to deal with any possible matters.

Yours thankfully,

Louis Auguste Blanqui,
First Minister of the Central Comittee of the People's Commune of France

Stadtschloss, Berlin, North German Federation

Standing below the building's splendour, Léon patiently awaited the arrival of the King. Though he felt a certain honour to meet royalty, this was damaged by the fact he was no longer meeting the Chancellor. In fact, on account of his principles, he would've preferred the Chancellor. Though their wealth amazed him, Léon had only distaste for the idea that one man could truly believe his own superiority over others. Furthermore so, the fact that this right was supposedly transferred by birth did not seem right. Not entirely evil, but not correct either.

However, he decided, such views should be supressed while he intended to represent his people. So, rather than making an outburst to the various servants surrounding him, he waited.

Paris Gare de l’Est, Paris, People's Commune of France

Benoît flung his fist against the closing door's windows, prompting the train attendant to peer through.

"Wait a second, bloody bastard." The last part was muttered under his breath, though all had been directly addressed to the unfortunate woman. That was a sight unheard of before the revolution, but now it was usual to see women take many of the jobs previously considered "manly" or just "unsuitable". He leapt aboard, hoisting his baggage with him.

Despite their eagerness to leave the station, the train was practically empty. With the exception of the rich, having fled in their droves as the Commune rose, few left France for fear of death along the route. This was only the second train to head to Germany, after the Fourth Division had secured the line past Metz a mere week earlier.

Of course, Benoît knew that he exception had been at least partly influenced by his trip. Blanqui had seemed keen for Benoît to go, claiming the Commune was short of representatives. It was more than likely that the First Minister saw his debating skills as a political threat and, while not interfering with the democracy, had decided that Benoît would benefit from a break. If he returned to a passing of many more radical measures, that would not be a surprise.

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