For The Glory IC (Sponsored by CAS, Open to All) 1700-1800

[New Gothica]

For The Glory

(OOC Link-Applications and Application Rules)
(General Information and News)
(Map)

Sponsered by The Confederacy of Allied States

Simple Rules:
1. I am Mod my word is law as well as the other moderators.
2. Be respectful. OOC (I encourage personality IC so be a dick if thats what pleases you)
3. Do not cheat. Cheating includes but is not limited to; metagaming, powergaming, and hacking.
4. When Applying you may only start with up to 30 Counties in your country.
5. You may add up to an additional 8 counties each week. This will increase over time.
6. The Time scale in this rp is 1 week IRL is equal to 2 years IC. _{Weeks Start on Sunday and End on Saturday.}
7. Realism will be enforced with an iron fist. And you must roleplay.
8. Gunpowder is available.
9. Inactivity will not be tolerated. Two weeks of inactivity will result in ejection from the rp. If you need more time than this or think you might telegram the Admin or The Moderators and you'll be excused.
10. Technology advances at the same pace it did in our real world with little exception, how you innovate this technology using logic and tactical thinking is up to you.

Rules for Colonizing:
-Colonizing and claiming are completely seperate things.
-When colonizing you claim normally like you would if you were in Europe. Buuut (see below)
-You are have a limit to how many counties you can own dependent upon your population. (see below)
-The limit of counties you may have is 1 county x every 25,000 thousand population you have. In example. Colonies count towards your expansion. (see below)
-I have 100K population. That allots for a total of 4 colonies globally. (Colonies count for anywhere outside of your starting continent.)
-All colonies are fair game feel free to compete.
-Colonies will not be taken without bloodshed, aside from inhabited lands (good luck finding them)

[Pimps Inc]

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[New Gothica]

[redacted]

[New Gothica]

The Road to Alba

Staff Holder Tesni Aderyn; tall, ginger haired, and sleek figured, made her way down the hall in the Senate Building.
Upon entering the senators who were 'on recess' immidiently returned to their seats. Tesni made her way to the center podium and stood to the podium with her ceremonial weapon in hand. As several senators made it back into the room from recess and the others took to their seats and respective positions she prepared then once able delivered her motion.

From where I stand it would only appear to me, that it is in favor of the republic to assimilate ourselves with our scottish brothers who seem divided greatly on what approaches to take in a lack of central power. Without a monarchy or any other form of government to be able to provide for the needs and peoples of Yr Alban strictly speaking, it would be wise for us to take action and move towards conjoining with the counties of Yr Alban to make a more powerful force of Celtic and National Union than if we were to remain abstinent from the issue.
So without further explanation I put forward a motion to the senate to extend all rights granted to Welsh and Cornish counties to Scottish and Anglo-Scottish counties. These rights would fall on the populace of the counties. If this motion is accepted I will immidiently begin the process of assimilating Anglo counties along the western coast of the Prydain Fawr in Lloegr to Yr Alban and then from there assimilate Scottish counties as in coordinates of a timely manner as possible. I now put this motion forward to the floor.

Tesni then stepped back from the podium and awaited for the senators to vote.

After several waning minutes the results were counted before the assembly and it came down to a 21 to 9 in accordance with 21 counties voting for the motion and 9 counties voting against the motion. It was then settled and shortly after The senate meeting had ended and Tesni returned to Caernarvon Castle, which was ceremonial state of office for the newly elected Staff Holders. She began writing the orders to troops in case the letters she wrote to the English Counties leaders themselves failed.

Two weeks later Welsh Troops marched into the English counties of Lancaster and Cumbria annexing them officially and a massive infrastructure project began to build roads between the counties of Cymru and the new counties from Lloegr.

[The Welsh Kingdoms]

Palace of the Porphyrogenitus, Constantinople, Byzantium

Emperor Andreas Palaiologos III Walks down the corridor of the Purple Palace, he shows clear signs of age, as a splendid, grey beard drapes down his royal clothing, marks of age over his face. He is well-built and still hearty. Flanked on each side by a Varangian Guards, tall Scandinavian men, dressed in plate armor, similar to that of the Polish Winged Hussars. Instead of wings, the Varangians have a the crest of their order. Two Axes on a Purple background, with the Palaiologos Imperial Eagle at the Top, and the Norse Hawk at the bottom. As his entourage of Four Varangians follow him into a chamber, where the Imperial Council has gathered. The Councilmen stand up as he enters. He'd nod to all the Councilmen, before he slides infornt of his seat. A Varangian would push his chair in, and the Council sits down. "As Emperor, I call this council to session, we shall start out as it always is, Strategos., Domestic and Military report." The Strategos nods, and slides four scrolls over to The Emperor. The Session would take hours to end, at around mid-afternoon, the Session is over, a series of edicts imposed.

Domestic:

The Domestic Policy is to stay the same, Both the Catholic and Orthodox Churches are to remain separate, and under separate hierarchies. Communities are heavily-emphasize on encouraging their new generation to keep the Byzantium Armed Forces within its 100,000 minimum, and encourage, by the next years to come, the Army to double due to encouragement. Taxation is to remain at a 8%, and is to remain the same. Meanwhile, Courthouses are to be built in every municipality town to meet the requirement to take the Judicial Duties from local bureaucrats to Justices in the courthouses, to put lesser stress on the bureaucracy. And Finally, The Bourgeoisie are recommended to invest into landowner's farms and businesses to help strengthen the economy.

Economic:

Due to the importance of an Army in these trying times, and the expectations to expand the Army even more, and the Navy, the economy will be HEAVILY subsidized, and heavily encouraged to expand, leaving to to local bureaucrats to expand their local economic output. Rural communities are heavily encouraged to give 1/3 of their crops to local officals, which would be split evenly, 1/2 go into local granaries incase of famine or disasters . While another 1/2 will be sold by local officials to the merchants. Merchants, the life-blood our our vast trading network, is encouraged to give back to the communities, and invest in private enterprises, to increase overall production output of goods, which in turn, will lead to increase profits. Also, merchants are encourage to divert trading powers from local areas, to major trading hubs, Constantinople. Also, a economic goal is set, a total of 10,500,000 hyperpyra , from the average income of 8,243,982 of last year census. Lastly, Merchants HEAVILY DISCOURAGED to trade with Venetian Merchants

Diplomacy:

Due to the hostile relations with the Trukomans in Anatolia, and with most of former Byzantium Europe held by Slavic invaders, and the presence of the Venetians' rise to power. All three people threaten the stability of the Empire, and are deemed enemies of the Roman Way. As first order, The Emperor impose a embargo and freezing all Venetian goods inside of Byzantium lands, and that any Venetian trade power in the Eastern Mediterranean and The Black Sea are to be brought to stagnation, and overthrown. Meanwhile, Emissaries are to travel to Rome, and attempt to establish diplomatic ties with the Italian Empire, in hopes of gaining a diplomatic and militaristic ally against Byzantium's enemies, and its objective to ultimately reforge Byzantium Sovereignty over former Byzantium lands lost. Meanwhile, Byzantium is to improve general relations with The Mamelukes, a mutual interest due both's hatred for the Turks. Emissaries of the Empire must attempt friendly relations with the Mamelukes, and attempt to forge a long-lasting relationship. Meanwhile, General relations with all courts of Europe, except the Venetians, are t be on good terms. Emissaries to Camitolia, Wales, Gauls, and Netherlands are issued a gift of 100,000 hyperpyra to improve relations. Meanwhile, 500,000 Hyperpyra are given to emissaries going to Rome and Cairo.

Military:

The Majority of funds are dedicated to The Empire's modernization of the Army and Navy. Foreign Military Advisers are to be hired international, specifically from Western nations, to act as Military Reformers, and advise on the process of modernizing the Byzantium Army and Navy. Meanwhile, the Government will subside the production of firearms by gunsmiths, to help overall quality and quantity of firearms, the ultimate objective is in the next years, every Byzantine Cavalry and Infantryman are to be armed with some sort of modern firearm. Also, hired military advisers are to help train infantry regiments that are to become modernized to be trained in the modern ways of warfare. Also, the way warfare is raged by Byzantium is to re-vamped to modern tactics and formations, and the formation of specialized regiments, such as Guards, Grenadiers, Line Infantry, Rangers, and such on. Also, the Empire will fund the building of more Dardanelles Naval Guns, to protect the Bosporus straight and the Sea of Marmara, by heavily entrenching Gallipoli Peninsula and The Coast of Anatolia with fortifications armed with Heavy Cannons, Naval guns able to destroy ships with three or four hits. Also, the Empire has set a ultimate goal for the expansion of the navy. With the Embargo of the Venetians, a vast navy is needed to enforce this, all shipyards along the coast to to build modern vessels, designed by foreign ship carpenters, meanwhile, as new, modernized ships are constructed, out-dated ships, depending on date of commission are to be scraped for the materials to be re-used.

Expansion:

The Army is to deploy the First Corps and the Third Corps, of around 60,000 are to march along the coast, and begun taking the Greek Coast. Meanwhile, The Second Corps is to guard Constantinople, and the Fourth Corps is to guard the border with the Turk tribes.
http://imgur.com/adfkLsy

[Greater Utrecht]

Danish Council
In the halls of the Danish Council, several Nobles, Grandmasters, and the most important of all, the old King William III, discusses the question of wether to conquer the former danish realm of Iceland. Many of the Grandmasters and the Nobles supports the annexation of Iceland while some of the more progressive and liberal Nobles went against this. The Decision was all up to the King which wielded 40% of the voting power in the council. At the moment of truth, the King supported the annexation and a Fleet of Ships carrying 5,000 Troops were ordered to support the annexation of Iceland.

Port of Odense
At the Port of Odense, 2 Transports along with 3 Heavies prepares to depart for Iceland. The Commander of the Fleet, Admiral Yana Horkrieg, sends a messenger to the Cordovacion, one of the Heavies, to go ahead and scout for any pirates.

[Kinistian]

"La guerre Uniting"
The Uniting War

Gautier Gallois the 2nd sat comfortable upon the once great thrown of the French Kings,his sea green eyes staring off to the side to a map of France,Haiti,Quebec,and New Orleans. He then turned his attention to his generals and admiral."Hommes,it has been a year since my Kingdom has been declared and the once great Empire of France deteriorating into the sad vulnerable state in which it now stands."he said in a courtly manner before standing up to walk towards the map of France."As the new King of Gaul,I shall not let its historic homeland be claimed by anyone other then us"he said before putting his figure on a strip of counties that dug into his Kingdom's western borders.

"This must be our first objective,from here we will reunite the entire Northern France under our banner and from there on we will reclaim the land to the south until we reach the old Spanish border"he promptly stated and looked at his generals. "General Grégoire Boulle,I shall assign you this task. Take your forces now!"he commanded and slammed the end of his golden encrusted can on the floor. Grégoire Boulle bowed his head to his majesty,before turning around to calmly walk his way off the palace grounds.

"Admiral Léo Chevalier,you'll will take your ships and a small army across the Atlantic to ensure that the colony of New Orleans does not fall into the hands of this Colonial Republic of The West Indies & The Carib Isles. Your authorized to recruit our colonist,buccaneers,and Native Subjects to ensure our rule is not challenge. Then you'll proceed to retaken Saint-Domingue,when you have deemed your men ready for such an invasion. Now go!"Gautier demanded and did the same thing with his cane and after watched the admiral bow and leave.

Gautier then turned to his last general,Baron Maxence Bourgeois."Baron,I task you with the most important task I could ask a general. You are to maintain the law and order of my Kingdom while also continuously recruiting more men into the army. We will need many of them if we are to reunite Gaul under me!"he said and nodded for him to go in witch he did.

The Next Day
Gautier was busy with court formalities when all the sudden one of his messengers whispered in his ear that a emissary from Byzantine Empire had arrived with a chest full of its gold. He whispered back to his man who nodded,adjusted his tipping powdered wig before walking into the main forum where the Byzantine Envoy was directed to earlier."His Majesty will take you now"he calmly said,extending his arm in the direction of the thrown room.

Battle of Alençon

General Grégoire Boulle sat upon his white on top of hill over looking the battle outside the city state of Alençon who's "rulers" have so rudely denounced the King of Gaul and wish to remain independent from his will. Grégoire 10000 Line Infantry where neatly aligned on the plain and were flanked by the heavy Calvary of some 500 Cuirassiers,250 on each end of the line. 80 Coureurs de Bois skirmishers where at the head of all of it,the sharpshooters were already taking out the short supply of officers causing the Alençon forces which where mostly made up of peasants rather than professional soldiers hesitate or slow down. All the while 25 12 pound foot artillery pounded the enemy positions in a constant salvo that had already routed some of the Alençon lines.

After a 10 minute march the Alençon forces where finally in position to engage the Gaulish forces. The Coureurs de Bois fell back behind the mass of line infantry,who's muskets swoop down as soon as the skirmishers were safely behind them. The artillery had started to fire slower now,do to stamina cost of using the big guns. The battered lines of the Alençon forces aimed their old muskets at the Gauls,some had blunder busts that were more wall decoration that weapon,and then the loud downs of gunfire was heard and a small puff of gun smoke filled the air.

The small Alençon army had fired into the line infantry ranks,taking out a few men who either dropped dead at once or keeled over wailing in pain. Then the Gaulish officers ordered the return fire and even louder gunfire was soon heard fall lowed by a large white cloud of gun smoke. The volley hit the Alençons as their were reloading,scores of the militia men fell down in seconds while others frantically reloaded their weapons before hearing the Gaulish officers yell"SECOND LINE!",the Gauls how had fired first dropped down to a crouch positions and the row of men behind them took aim over their heads. They fired another volley into them,inflicting enough damage to send a few of them into route."THIRD LINE!"the Gaulish officers yelled and the second line dropped as they reloaded. The third line in ranks took aimed and fired another volley while the Alençons had started to fire at will. It soon came apparent that all was lost and the entire Alençon army broke their lines and retreated,their Gendarmerie fleeing into the countryside before a artillery shell would hit them.

Grégoire ordered the cease fire of his artillery and infantry,before sending in the Cuirassiers to mow down the retreating Alençons to ensure total victory. The next day he and his men entered Alençon where they rose the flag of Gaul over the governors palace,as well as the heads of those who had caused the Alençons to suffer. The remaining militia men where spared and offered to join the army but many refused do to their families. But the Alençon Gendarmerie were forcibly conscripted into the army,giving his army 150 light Calvary men.

Land gained,those eight pieces of land to the west that run parallel to each other.

New Orleans Cooperation

After the empire of France had dissolved the people of New Orleans first thought that they could stay out on their own,but after hearing the revolt of Haiti they soon realized that couldn't survive without help and so when Admiral Léo Chevalie reached the city he was meet with full cooperation by the French Colonial Forces their and thus raised the Gaulish colors over the city,proclaiming it a Gaulish Colony

Colony of New Orleans reestablish

[The Welsh Kingdoms]

Paris, Ile-de-France, Kingdom of Gual

The envoy would nod, and walk into the Throne Rome, guiding two Varangians, carrying a chest. He'd enter the Throne room. He'd walk up the carpet, and bow before the steps. "Hail, Vasiliás, King of the Franks. I am a noble emissary, sent by the Basileus of Rhomanion, and I was sent to be his voice..." The King would allow the envoy to rise, and to say what he was sent to.

"Humble King of the Franks, of The Gauls, First to his name, We, the Greeks, the Romans, have watched your people for centuries...We've watched as your people...Risen from humble beginnings as a once nomadic people...To a prominent Kingdom, that resisted all invasions launched by any foe, The English fell upon your ramparts during the 100's years Wars, The Muslims fell by your sword by the magnificent Charles The Hammer. The Germans have been beaten back numerous times... We've watched as you people, under Charlemagne The Great expand The Franks to their greatest extent in Europe, we've witness as you deafened your Catholic practices as you invaded the Arabs in The Holy Lands... We've watch your people, Rise and Fall, Peak and Decline. The Franks have may had many hardships, and have reached Golden Ages throughout history... Byzantine has shared the same hardships, we have nearly fallen during the Wars with the Turkomans, like you did against the English... Yet, our people rallied when our enemies underestimated our sprites! The Muslims have fallen before our blades many times, and will keep, repeatedly failed upon our ramparts!
As your people, prestigious in their own way, now enter a new chapter of their history, we, the Romans and Greeks of Byzantium, wish to give this humble offering of 100,000 golden coins, to help strengthen your new Kingdom, and to hope it prospers in the coming generations! May your people, may you, First of your People, be immortalized as the savior of your people from these dark times, and be remembered throughout history. Thank you, King, for your time."
And with that, the Envoy bows, and the two Varangrians come forward, and put the chest down, one sliding his hunder under the lid, and opening it, displaying the vast wealth within. And with that, the envoy and his entourage leave.

[Greater Utrecht]

Beachfront, Near Keflavík
The Danish Ships arrived at the beaches of Iceland, carrying 3,000 Soldiers ready to enforce the annexation of Iceland by the Danish Realm. On the flagship, Saint Augustine, a messenger from the Cordovacion arrives with a letter for Admiral Horkrieg saying that several Pirates have been spotted about 2 miles from the beachfront. Horkrieg sends a letter to the Cordovacion and the Martin Luther to stay on alert.

On the beachfront, the Soldiers led by Captain Thor Beckenson prepares to march for the settlement of Keflavík where they will meet with the settlement's Local Militia. One of the soldiers, named Adam Aarhansen, details his account on a journal. It says "Our Regiment will march for Keflavík and are expected to arrive by 2 days time. The heavy snow made it difficult to move through the paths and our conditions were terrible".

Iceland is annexed

Denmark
As King William III sat at his throne, stroking his long grey beard, and enjoying a cup of Cocoa from the New World, the Duke of Aarhus arrived at his feet to humbly request an expedition to the New World in order to establish trading relations with the natives. The King denied his request due to the lack of funds and his disinterest in the New World. The Duke then left and set out to find a contractor to fund his expedition.

In a tavern in Aarhus, the Duke meets a wealthy merchant from Lubeck named Wilhelm von Wesslenberg whom he persuades to fund his expedition. After a few pints, Wilhelm drunkenly signs a contract with the Duke.

Copenhagen
In the Foreign Ministry, the Minister of Diplomacy, Henry of the North, arranges to send a diplomat to the Colonial Republic of The West Indies & The Carib Isles to form a Trade Agreement based upon Sugar and Cocoa.

[Caralia]

Le Bastienne, San Domingue, Hispaniola

The republic's main hall of debate was truly beautiful to behold for any republican, organized, efficient debate between small, direct political clubs and parties, usually representing an assortment of ideals, but today representing their interests for expansion. Their Island nation was strong, but it was not quite as strong as they felt it needed to be. The many parties made their distinctions and made their arguments, some arguing for the envelopment of the remainder of the Caribbean, and expansion into Florida, along with the reclamation of Spanish Florida.

These arguments fell as a renowned official, Jacques Blanchland, rose to speak, a flair of french accent joining with his creole style of speech.

''Mes Copains, Meine Freunde, My Friends, we are meeting the turn of a new century, and it is yet again an auspicious date. We are not an old state, and our power in the Carribean is not unchallenged. We are not strong enough to consider expansion into North Amerika, towards the Amerikan state, they outweigh us in land power, and there is nothing to be gained fighting far off Germans while the sugar mills continue to roll.''

A ring of murmurs had risen from the assembled delegates, some in agreement, some in challenge, and some just to exert their own presences. A single man, John Dalton, rose to his feet and spoke, a blunt, Irish-Creole accent fixed to his language.

''So you would have us fight the Natives? The Mexica? Madness, I say''

Many other delegates seemed to agree, but the smile on Blanchland's face did not fade at this alone.

''No, not at all. Why must there be war at all, Monsieur Dalton? We are traders, and we have always been as such. However, I do not advocate that we let ourselves become chattel of more military empires, nor do I even suggest we cease to expand. We must hold all of the Caribbean. These are fertile lands, and we would be fools not to exploit it.''

Most of the house seemed to agree, and so Blanchland continued on, backed by the nods of his party.

''Our most important defenses must not be neglected, a naval force is needed to defend these fair oceans upon which our trade dwells. I propose a profitable initiative, gentlemen, however novel. Any landowner may put his fortune towards the enhancement of the navy, and in exchange he will receive shares in the ship he has jointly purchased. Of course, all military management will remain in the hands of the officers, but any contributing landowner will receive payment based on the income of the vessel, through the prizes it takes and so forth. There can be no harm in this, can there? ''

None could truly defy him now, and the bill would pass quickly, named as the Naval Commissionary Bill. With it's creation, many a patriotic merchant or tycoon would invest in the production of new vessels, and the navy would grow, along with plentiful government investments, and the assistance of the vastly wealthy Blanchland, drawing on his funds as a major landowner in the profitable north of San Domingue. Along with this expansion of the navy would come an expansion into the remaining islands of the Caribbean, and an expansion of industry. Sugar, Coffee, Indigo, Fruits, Furs, all manner of resplendent luxuries produced in abundance, as ever, by the immensely fertile and productive land of the Caribbean. Individually the isles had been immensely profitable, with San Domingue having been the most profitable single colony in the world not so long ago, and that had been when it was but half of the island.

The sheer wealth of the nation was immense, and best of all was that little of it was in the form of mineral wealth, and almost all of it was in the hands of merchants, trained in economic theory, and with the intellect to control supply and demand. After all, their workforce did not need paying.

Claims:http://imgur.com/0NyVmUu (Bermuda, Essentially just a resupply post and a lighthouse in the middle of nothingness, The remainder of the Carribean, and some of southern Florida, four provinces if you count Bermuda)

[New Gothica]

Another meeting in the senate, determining another solution for the republic. Today was however different, they were not discussing possible war, annexations, or expansions. Trade was the topic of the day. Trade and peace.
Tesni moved forward and prepared to speak.

I believe it is in the favour of the Republic that we of all people are not strangers to peace and prosperity, now I know our former English enemies may seem a relevant threat I would argue that now, with the abolishment of their monarchy that this New Republic in England may prove to be in our favour, Lloegr cannot stand as an enemy to Cymru any longer. So I put forth a motion to begin conducting diplomacy to sign an official peace treaty with England and work on rebuilding the trust that was destroyed centuries ago.
Before anyone starts moving I am also putting forth the motion that we immidiently and without much discretion make negotiations with the Kingdom of Gaul, they threaten our interests in our fellow Celtic State of Brittany and they also pose a good stance to become respectful friends as well as trading partners.
So in full I put forth the motions of One; to conduct diplomacy with the men of Lloegr, and Two; conduct trade negotiations with The Gaulic.
Let us hear the outcome.

It took over half an hour of discussion and voting before the results were ready to read.
On the first motion, counted before the assembly, 16 to 14 in accordance with 16 counties voting for the motion and 14 voting against the motion, passing the motion.
On the second motion, counted before the assembly, 24 to 6 in accordance with 24 counties voting for the motion and 6 voting against the motion, passing the motion.

Tesni contacted her appointed minister of foreign affairs.

Letter
Written to and directed towards the official government of The Kingdom of Gaul
Written by The Republican Minister for Foreign Affairs
It is in the favour of the Republic and in our thoughts in favour of your Kingdom that we begin discussing trading right grants to our merchants and companies with one another. We will of course await a response but it is also in the favour of the staffholder that discussion be brought to a meeting to discuss other political necessities.
~Signed and Sealed by The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Owein Maddock

Letter
Written to and directed towards the official government of The Republic of England
Written by The Republican Minister for Foreign Affairs
The Republic has effectively decided that official peace negotiations should be undergone to the country of England. We would like to conduct these talks in person and The Staffholder herself will be present and requests that your governing body send its highest elected official to get executive actions underway. We are not in an absolute state of war, it is however being clearly stated that our government has never made peace treaties with a governing body of England and we wish for this to occur officially instead of a gentlemen's agreement. We will await your reply.
~Signed and Sealed by The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Owein Maddock

[Comitolia]

Lisbon, Kingdom of Comitolia


King Sev Overo de Gaspar sat at the head of a great table surrounded by his vassals. They had much to discuss. The world was quickly changing and the King was determined to stay ahead of the change, and make a profit from it. There were many things that needed to be discussed ranging in topic. Diplomacy, military, and trade were the categories that needed to be covered in this rare meeting.

The King declared international diplomacy the first topic of discussion. First discussed was how to reach out to the nations that would most benefit the kingdom. A universal letter was drafted requesting the opening of formal relations between Comitolia and said nations, as well as requesting permission to send diplomats to each nation.

To: (Leader of all foreign countries other than Egypt, Aztecs, and Skaavo)
From: Ruler of Comitolia, King Sev Overo de Gaspar
Subject: Diplomatic Relations
Most noble leaders of the world,
I, King Sev Overo de Gaspar of Camitolia, request the opening of formal diplomatic relations between the fantastic people of your nation and my own. In due process, I request permission to send a Comitolian diplomat to each of your courts to further the bond between us.

I thank you and am hopeful for your response,
King Sev Overo de Gaspar

The second important task was to assess the current climate of the world. Recently, traders from the Mediterranean had informed the King's top economists that a trade embargo had been placed on Venice by the Byzantine empire. Interesting. The issue brought a great discussion around the table, many of the reactions were hysterical that this action had been taken at such a crucial time in history. The King was excited.

From the discussions surrounding the Mediterranean, the King was enthusiastic to make a bold move. Who knew how long this opportunity would remain open to him and his people. The war council was summoned to join the think tank and soon a plan was in place. War would be declared. (OOC don't worry it's on an NPC nation) The Kingdom of Granada held a unique and powerful region in the Mediterranean. The upper gate to Venice and Constinople and all of their trade. The declaration of war was crafted and the call to arms was given. The Comitolian army prepared to move. The second target of this attack was the lower gate to the Mediterranean. Currently occupied by small and weak African tribes and a few small trading posts, Sev was certain the land would be taken without much of a fight, nevertheless, a unit of troops poised to strike the Northern tip of Africa as well. (OOC I don't know the names of these specific areas so please reference the map to understand what I'm talking about XD)

The Northern Gate
Granada was not prepared. After recently suffering a crushing defeat at the hands of Castile, it's armies were weak and it's people demoralized. Nearly half of its land was taken and the last of the Muslim nations was being swallowed by the ever encroaching Catholics. A fleet of 30 military vessels, armed with an array of cannons and manned by over 3,000 sailors, escorted transport ships carrying 15,000 Comitolian regulars, 1,000 footguard, 1,000 cavalry, and 200 artillerymen with 25 cannons. The fleet quickly eliminated the small Granda fleet of 8 poorly armed ships guarding the waters of the region, and troops were landed on the shores of Cadiz and Malaga. Local militia attempted to fight back, but the disciplined soldiers of Comitolia crushed the small defense forces put together. Only after conquering the provinces desired did the actual Grandian army arrive. The fight... well the massacre was brutal. The Comitolians had spent several days before the arrival setting up defensive positions for the artillery. When the 9,000 strong army arrived, they were bombarded by hundreds of cannonballs, followed by rounds and rounds of the enthusiastic Comitolian troops. After only 7 hours of their arrival, the Granadian army had split and run. Roughly 600 Comitolian troops died but the provinces were now part of Comitolia.

The Southern Gate
Unlike their counterparts, the small force of 10 military vessels with fewer than 1,000 sailors, which helped transport only 5,000 regulars and 80 artillerymen with 10 cannons, had little to no trouble taking the land they set out to. The African tribes that now inhabited the land after the fall of the Morrocan government posed little threat with their spears and arrows. The largest trade hub obtained, Tangiers, surrendered immediately and the Comitolian flag soon flew over the area. Only 13 Comitolians were killed.

Most important of all was the economy of Comitolia. The King, realizing the massive potential that arose from the Med. embargo drafted claims on West Africa. With the gate to the Med. sea now controlled by Comitolia, European trade could be directed Southward instead of Eastward. West Africa held vast amounts of resources such as ivory, gold, and most profitable of all, slaves. The Comitolian "Articles of Colonialization" were drafted. This allowed the King to send troops and citizens to a foreign land, unclaimed by any civilized nation. The first land to be taken by this decree, would be the Ivory coast. King Sev put together a special force which would advance the Kingdoms interests in Africa. This included 6 military vessels (~800 crew), 3,000 regulars, 80 artillerymen (10 cannons), 3,000 civilians, and 12 court merchants. They were given shiploads of European manufactured goods and luxuries, such as weaponry, iron, cloth, and much more. Their mission was to claim the land and create a prosperous trade region.

Secondly, Sev wanted to establish trade relationships with countries that would help build trade flowing South from Europe, past Comitolia, INTO the gates of the Med., South to Africa, and back. The emphasis would be to NOT push trade INTO the Med. rather away from it. To further entice markets to shift to Africa, high taxes and tariffs would be placed on trade MOVING INTO the Med, trade exiting would receive no such taxing. Traders trading in both new markets (the gates of the Med. and Ivory Coast) would face ZERO taxes on goods sold for ONE year unless the restrictions above apply. Letters were sent to ALL nation leaders except Aztec, Egypt, Skaavo, Rome, Venice, and Byzantium, explaining the new opportunities for trade and the short term deal they would receive for moving would be Mediterranean goods South to Africa.

http://i.imgur.com/pXp1tLF.png

- Requested diplomatic relations with foreign leaders
- Declared war on Granada, Conquered Northern Gate to Med.
- Conquered Southern Gate to Med.
- Claimed parts of Ivory Coast (Also some uninhabited islands off coast of West Africa)
- Pushing trade out of Med. down to Africa using opportunistic position
- Sent Trade Agreements to foreign leaders

[Comitolia]

PROJECTED IMPACTS ON GLOBAL TRADE:
*These were projections made by Comitolian economists and merchants and would be emphasized by the Kingdom and its merchants*
*These maps were sent along with trade agreements*

Projected Trade Map

Map Key
Boxes: Important trade regions
Lines w/ arrow on one end: Substantial trade goods flow in one direction
Lines w/ arrow on both ends: Substantial trade goods flow in both directions
Dotted Red Line: Influential block of trade
Dotted Black Line: Limited trade goods flow

[Kinistian]

Oh Grande Diplomatie

King Gautier was feasting marly with his many court officials and military advisors over the crushing victory at Alençon,which insured furthered the Gaulish influence over North western France. Even now his generals plan the conquest of the next peninsula and the archive the major milestone in his dream of reuniting France under his banner. Though now his army must rest and replenish their lost ranks for a while before continuing the reunification process.

Gautier was about to retire for the night when yet another platter was brought forth,at first he thought it was desert but to his surprise it was a series of letters sent by the various states of Europe. He told the servant to place the notes in his study before going back to celebration,toasting to his army at Alençon before seeing his guests out as they left one at a time

The King was full,drowsy and a little light in the head from all the wine. He ordered a glass of water which he was given and retired to his study. He opened up the first one of the letters,seeing it was from that English,Welsh and Ireland republic across the channel. He opened it up and read its contents before writing a replay in the dreadful and tasteless English language.

I King Gautier Gallois the 1st,Lord of the Franks,King of the Gauls and Protector of France have chosen to let you make your case for such an agreement to Paris. Where I plan on holding a large host delegations from various other Kingdoms and Republics. Never before will so many people meet in one location to discuss the politics of Europe. You will not want to miss it.

Signed

Gautier Gallois the 1st

Next of course was the Comitolia letter....

I King Gautier Gallois the 1st,Lord of the Franks,King of the Gauls and Protector of France have chosen to let you make your case for such an agreement to Paris. Where I plan on holding a large host delegations from various other Kingdoms and Republics. Never before will so many people meet in one location to discuss the politics of Europe. You will not want to miss it.

Signed

Gautier Gallois the 1st

One to the Dutch....

King Gautier Gallois the 1st,Lord of the Franks,King of the Gauls and Protector of France have chosen to invite your politicians to Paris. Where I plan on holding a large host delegations from various other Kingdoms and Republics. Never before will so many people meet in one location to discuss the politics of Europe. You will not want to miss it.

Signed

Gautier Gallois the 1st

And finally for Venice

King Gautier Gallois the 1st,Lord of the Franks,King of the Gauls and Protector of France have chosen to invite your politicians to Paris. Where I plan on holding a large host delegations from various other Kingdoms and Republics. Never before will so many people meet in one location to discuss the politics of Europe. You will not want to miss it.


Signed

Gautier Gallois the 1st

[New Gothica]

I King Gautier Gallois the 1st,Lord of the Franks,King of the Gauls and Protector of France have chosen to let you make your case for such an agreement to Paris. Where I plan on holding a large host delegations from various other Kingdoms and Republics. Never before will so many people meet in one location to discuss the politics of Europe. You will not want to miss it.

Signed

Gautier Gallois the 1st

Tesni's eye twitched while reviewing over the letter. 'I am not some high aristocrat prat who will be subject to such things' she thought to herself as she crumpled the response and tossed it into a nearby fire. She then sighed and faced the knowledge that whether she liked it or not she was going to have to foot this bill for the Republic's best interests, or it may bring war to the republic.

The next day the staff holders honourary ship left harbour with 2 escorts, for Paris.

[Comitolia]

I King Gautier Gallois the 1st,Lord of the Franks,King of the Gauls and Protector of France have chosen to let you make your case for such an agreement to Paris. Where I plan on holding a large host delegations from various other Kingdoms and Republics. Never before will so many people meet in one location to discuss the politics of Europe. You will not want to miss it.
Signed
Gautier Gallois the 1st

After a long day of planning, discussing, and taking action, Sev was happy to be relaxing in his private study deep within the Castle de Lisbon. His thoughts were interrupted by a pesky servant.

"S-sir," he stammered, "a letter addressed to you. It is marked by the royal seal of Gaul."

"Bumbling fool, give that to me... Hmmm how interesting. This would be the perfect place to set our detailed plans in motion! A large number of rulers in one place at one time, how could we be so lucky Servio!? Ah you don't understand a word I'm saying! Call upon my interpreters, my economists, Comitolian merchants, and the delegate I chose for Gaul. We set sail for Paris tomorrow morning on the three finest ships in all of Comitolia! Oh yes and how about you learn a thing or two when I'm away hmmm?"

[Greater Utrecht]

Aarhus
After a week of preparing for his expedition to the New World, the Duke and his men sets sail for the New World from Aarhus. He has entrusted Aarhus to his nephew, Charles Hullensen. As the Duke's fleet of 5 Ships: The Saint Augustine, the William, the Odensson, the Light of Saint Olaf, and the Flagship: The Saint Lawrence traverses the treacherous North Atlantic, one of his men informs the Duke that a storm is headings its way for the Fleet. The Duke orders the fleet to stay clear of the storm but it was too late......

When the storm hit the fleet, it ravaged the Saint Lawrence and sunk the William and the Light of Saint Olaf. The Saint Augustine somehow survived with little of no damage but the Odensson had sustained damage to its Portside. 10 Days later, the Odensson was sunk by an Iceberg.

Months later, the remains of the Duke's Fleet: The Saint Augustine and the Saint Lawrence, arrived off the coast of Maine. The Duke and several other men traveled by boat to the shores where a Wabanaki saw them. The Duke and the men decided to make camp in the shoreline and begin exploring the Interior by tomorrow. As night fell and the men lay asleep, several Wabanaki ambushed the men and killed 2 of them. The Duke and the others were woken up and immediately killed the ambushers using their Guns. A few escaped and returned to their settlement. By morning, the 2 dead were buried in the shorelines and the Duke and the others began their expedition to the Interior where danger awaits them...

[Caralia]

To: (Leader of all foreign countries other than Egypt, Aztecs, and Skaavo)
From: Ruler of Comitolia, King Sev Overo de Gaspar
Subject: Diplomatic Relations
Most noble leaders of the world,
I, King Sev Overo de Gaspar of Camitolia, request the opening of formal diplomatic relations between the fantastic people of your nation and my own. In due process, I request permission to send a Comitolian diplomat to each of your courts to further the bond between us.

I thank you and am hopeful for your response,
King Sev Overo de Gaspar

The Colonial Assembly, Havana

The letter had been presented to the Assembly in Havana, and had been accepted, a reply having been sent detailing acceptance, with prices decreasing slightly as a gesture of faith. This brought trade into the forefront once more, and so a discussion had begun. The republic was, at current, the worlds one and only source of industrial sugar, indigo and cocoa production, asides the odd Mexica to the west, and they were in no position to trade with Europe. This mass production made them immensely powerful in terms of trade, as they could control all production and trade of the coveted products, allowing them to demand immense prices for their products. After all, no-one could make it at all, let alone cheaper than the perfectly oiled machine of the colonies, that had been built to produce these resources. More than that, however, the population of Europe had been exposed to the products before, and nostalgia had only made the product more valuable.

This new map did present one concern, with the new Comitolian colony in Africa providing the only other site on the planet, outside of the republic, capable of producing coffee. The African continent provided an interesting proposition, but many preferred consolidation in the area of Florida and the Mississippi valley. The Mississippi Valley was known to be one of the most fertile regions in the world, and they would be fools not to take advantage of it. With this having been said, a vote was taken, and expansion into the Mississippi valley was deemed profitable. The land would be sold off to plantation owners, and the expansion into the area would begin, with the construction of Port Aula near the delta of the Mississippi. The land would quickly become a breadbasket for the republic, corn and wheat flowing freely to Havana by the boatload.

A group of ragged colonists departed, financed by a man named Ceas, to the African continent, at the beginning of spring, traveling along the coast of South America to depart at the point of the continent. This never occured, instead with the colonists landing at the point of South America, founding the settlement of Param. (Colonization, Yay!)

Expansion: http://imgur.com/CwBnJZq (Three provinces in the Mississippi area, and one colony in South America.)

[Comitolia]

Mediterranean Trade Distaster!
*This is an event and not an IC post for Comitolia*

Map
Key:
Black Squares - Trade Regions (ie NW Europe, Italy, Byzantium)
Solid Black Lines - Large amounts of trade (ie NW Europe to New World)
Dotted Black Lines - Smaller amounts of trade (ie Italy to Byzantium)
Double Dotted Red Lines - Some sort of trade block (ie Byzantium embargo of Venice, Comitolia heavy tax on Med. trade)
One Arrow - Trade mostly in one direction (ie Denmark to Iceland, East to Constantinople)
Two Arrows - Trade obvious in both directions (ie NW Europe to New World, Comitolia to Ivory Coast)

Detailed Description of Event
As a massive trade dispute is the Eastern Mediterranean ends with the Byzantine empire embargoing Venice and seizing ships and cargo, trade in the region has been severely impacted.

The ancient rivalry between Constantinople and Venice was known around the world. However, while they constantly sought for trade power in the Eastern Mediterranean, their co-operation was essential to the entirety of the region. Constantinople, the city connecting the East to the West, was the end point of many Eastern traders. The city where they would sell their Eastern products to be sent to the West and buy Western items to sell in their homeland. Venice, the most powerful European trade hub, was the end point of many European traders. Thousands of merchants from inland Europe would travel by caravan into the floating city to sell their Western goods and buy Eastern goods.

By breaking the flow of Western and Eastern trade goods, traders seeking a profit would find none. Western goods would begin piling up inside Venice, with little place to sell them. Eastern goods would do the same in Constantinople, seriously disrupting both nations economy and trade. Venice, attempting to find a new Eastern trading hub would flock to Egypt significantly boosting Egyptian economy and trade power. Constantinople, on the other hand, would bypass Venice and look to a new Western trade hub, Rome, significantly increasing its trade power and economy.

The situation was made even worse for the giant trade powers by the actions taken by Comitolia and the West Indies. The Triangular Trade (the trade flowing from Europe to Africa to the Americas) was already making headway on the ancient trade routes through the Mediterranean. With new incentives to enter African and American markets, and heavy disincentives from entering the Mediterranean, thousands of merchants would rethink their profit-generating strategy, and ships used to making the trip to Venice and Constantinople would join the up and coming Triangular Trade.

Summary
- Economy & trade power of Venice & Byzantium lowered significantly
- Economy & trade power of Egypt & Rome increased significantly
- Mediterranean trade plummets
- Trade power of Comitolia & West Indies increased significantly
- Economy of Amerika, Comitolia, & West Indies increases
- Triangular trade explodes

*If you have questions/issues regarding the event, please TG me*

[Cassinopa]

To: The Greek states
From: Bulgaria
We of Bulgaria hereby offer our support in reclaiming your recently lost territories to the Byzantines. We would demand the return of the territories belonging to you, and if the Byzantines refuse, we will attack them together and reclaim your areas by force. to note, we are also working on gaining support from the Venetians and the Turks in this endeavor, to ensure victory. Greek territory would be non-negotiable in the treaties, of course, as it would all be returning to you.

To: The Turkish Sultanate/s bordering Byzantium
From:Bulgaria
we hereby offer you an opportunity to reclaim Anatolia for yourselves, and free it from the Byzantines. We both find a Roman reconquest a bad idea, and we offer you a way to eliminate that threat. if you and the Greeks agree to work together with us, and the Byzantines refuse to return rightfully Greek territories(as we are confident they will, with their stance in our negotiations) we will all co-operatively declare war upon them, and defeat the Roman threat for good. we assure you, we have no interest in Anatolia, and wish only peace with you, unlike the Byzantines.

NOTE: currently negotiating with Vahn(venice) in telegrams, as figuring out what each of us want in forum messages would be a wee bit annoying

[New Gothica]

[Redacted]

[Greater Utrecht]

The 3,000 Soldier Danish Army has arrived in the settlement of Keflavík. There, they find it mostly devoid and filled with the stench of death. In the town hall, the Leader of the settlement, Olaf Hjorness, greets Cpt. Beckenson. He tells the Captain that a plague has wiped out most of the people in the settlement. The survivors are scared terrified and have locked themselves up in their homes.

In the outskirts of Keflavík, one of the soldiers are attacked by a group of unknown men. In the settlement, one of the soldiers runs up to Cpt. Beckenson and informs him that they are underattack! The Captain orders the troops to retreat to the town and assume battle positions. As the Danes get ready for the battle, the enemy attackers suddenly charge from the outskirts and into the town in an unorganized fashion. The Danish Forces brutally injure or kill the attackers. Soon after the attack, an enemy survivor is found and taken to the town hall to be interrogated. He reveals that they were Icelandic Rebels opposed to Denmark's annexation. He also reveals their leader: Alan Siguroad, a former Military Colonel in the Danish Army that was exiled to Iceland.

[The Welsh Kingdoms]

The Emperor strides into the council chambers, council members scramble to rise, the emergency meeting was held early in the morning, after the economic reports have come in, and Diplomatic Reports. The Bulgars are moving against them, and the Med. Trade Routes are at a all time low. The Emperor, seeing the wrongs his last yearly report had led to, it was his urgency to repair the damage caused, and strengthen the security of Byzantium against the Camitolian's passive-aggressive embargo on the Med. He'd sit down, shortly all the councilmen sit down aswell, The Stratogos wastes no time, he hands the reports over urgently.

Domestic:

The Domestic Policy will remain the same. Courthouses are to be build more to increase local judicial efficiently. Meanwhile, 1/4 of Venetian good seized are distributed amongst affected Merchants due to the recent collapse of trade, and a primitive welfare system is to be made to support merchants. Other than that, the Domestic policy is to remain the same. Quota of Courthouses remain.

Economic:

Due to the Economic Collapse of the Med. Trade Routes. The Embargo on Venice has been widely considered disastrous. Therefore, The Embargo is LIFTED in order to repair the damage caused by the embargo. 3/4's of Venetian goods are returned to Venice. The Emperor has imposed a strong encouragement of Mercantilism and Shrewd Trading, in order to lessen the effects of the collapse. The Trade Routes are to be subsidized as the local officials are encouraged to do anything within their power to regain lost trade power and profits. Meanwhile, with the Bulgar's attempts to weaken Byzantium and the Greek people, Byzantium has imposed significant economic sanctions on Bulgaria, not allowing the passage of Gunpowder, Small Arms, Cannons, etc. To enter Bulgaria from the sea. Any trade ships found in the Dardanelles and Constantinople bound to Bulgaria with these items are hereby mothballed and their banned items seized, then it may continue. And with the superstition of future smuggling, The Byzantium has established a large blockade along the small Bulgarian coast, primarily with out-dated ships mixed with large Modernized Ships to seize smugglers. Theodora, Byzantium's greatest ally in the Black Sea, has contributed to limiting the trade of Bulgaria. Meanwhile, trade power has been divided, traders are shifted to resurrect the Med. Trade, or been sent into The Black Sea, to establish a momentary trade monopoly in the area, to support Byzantium.

Diplomacy:

After a year of the embargo and rapid collapse of the trade routes. Byzantium returns 3/4's of Venice's assets, and gives a official statement of apology. Meanwhile, Bulgars attempt to DEFY Byzantium's dreams of re-uniting Greece into a united nation under Greek rule, therefore, Bulgaria turning to its former masters, Turks, to gain power, therefore, Byzantium shall receive this as a THREAT, and has sent letters to the Jewish Kingdoms in Anatolia, the Byzantinos-Greco Kingdoms of Anatolia, Theodora, who are strong allies of Byzantium.

To: The Jewish States of Karaman, Candar, Dulkadir.
From:The Basilius of Byzantium
"Once again, our fellow Jewish brothers, we call upon your arms once again to protect our identity and security from those who wish to reconquer this. It was years ago, your first men landed, and helped us against the Turkoman invaders during the War in Aegean. Because of our ever-lasting debt, that your nations flourish. But, the time has come again, the Bulgars has promised the Turks, the Ottomans, to give all of Anatolia to them, therefore, we cannot allow such a foe to rise up again. We ask you to mobilize your troops, and prepare for the final war, the war to put an end to the Ottomans once and for all, to secure Anatolia from invaders. We will not allow the Turks to oppress us once again."

To:The Byzantine Kingdoms of Theodora, Trebizond, Nikaea, Dioclea
From:The Emperor of Byzantium
"To to the Brother-countries of Byzantium, your Emperor, and greatest ally, require your aid in yet another threat on our identity and our sovereignty. The Bulgars attempt to raise our brothers, the Greeks, our homeland, against us, they attempt to ally the Turks, their former masters, promising once again the Turks to conquer the lands we've had for centuries. We will NOT Tolerate this. We will show our might, show the brilliance of Greek planning to trump these fools in their petty attempts to reforge long-dead empires. Once again, we call upon you to be brothers-in-arms against the Turkomans and their indefinite slaves, the Bulgars invaders. We shall slay those who dare to challenge our people."

To: The Greek Kingdoms of Lower Achea, Eprius, and Macedonia
From:The Emperor of Byzantium
"To the our brothers, The Greeks, who are the fathers of our people, our brothers, our homeland. The Bulgars, attempting to ratify their petty claims using a treaty established by the oppressive and scourges of our people, the Ottomans, to CLAIM that Bulgars, those who invaded the once prominent Greek Empire, dare attempt to CLAIM all of the Balkans under their protection. These are the same Bulgars they have sided with our former oppressors, the Turks, in their petty attempts to re-establish their overlords as oppressors. These Bulgars are nothing but petty fools, relying on a treaty made by former killers of all people in these lands, to try and forge their Empire. We shall not have this. Former loyal Doukas of Byzantium, re call upon you, to rejoin your Greek roots, and become Lords under Byzantium, and protect the Greek people for the Bulgar's invasion, and attempt to re-establish the Ottomans. We will not stand as the Greeks are to support the invaders, and shall protect the Greek People from these fools who rely on the treaties singed by the Ottoman murderers."

With these letters sent out, Byzantium has sent, one single ultimatum to Bulgaria.

To: The Kingdom of Bulgaria
From:The Emperor of Byzantium
"Your petty games end here. We will not sit idle as you attempt to carve out the Greek People's homes, and establish yourself. We will not standby, as you use a treaty, made by your former killer,s The Ottomans, to justify your claims all over the Balkans. We stand, with many allies, including Greek Kingdom whom know that they will not sit by, and allow their people to be assimilated under your false banner. You will not THREATEN the Greek People no more, nor threaten ANY people in the Balkans ANYMORE! You games end here! You attempts to rally you former lords, The Ottomans, so they can make you THERE DOGS AGAIN will fail! Many have stood with us, and due to your most UNPOPULAR descision to ally yourself with the former butchers of the Balkans has led to many of your so-called "allies" to stand with you. You choose to bring the Turks BACK INTO EUROPE. You threaten to unity of the Greek People, who have long sought a single state. Byzantium has stood centuries, we have faced many threats the like of you, and WE WILL NOT BOW BEFORE YOU! As Emperor, I call that you END THIS RIDICULOUS TREATY, which serves NO PURPOSE. IF you are to mobilize against the armies of Byzantium and her allies, you will be brought down before our might. You have been warned."

Meanwhile, envoys journey all throughout the Balkans, spreading the news of Bulgaria's intentions of allowing the Ottomans, the former dictators of The Balkans, to return to power. Byzantium WILL NOT Stand for this.

Military:

Military has to be changed. With the recent threats by Bulgaria, Byzantium is forced to call upon for 30,000 more of its citizens to volunteer for service in the army. Yet, Byzantium has a finger hovering above a button, ready to raised any and all possible men to service. Meanwhile, foreign military drill sergeants and advisers are to continue to modernize the Byzantium Army, so that it may have a significant advantage over its rivals in the area, who threaten its security. Meanwhile, its navy is to maintain its current quota. The Emperor has set a new quota for the Army to reach around 160,000 men, due to rising tensions, an that by the end of the years, Modernization is at 60%.

Summary:

Domestic:
-1/4th of Venetian Assets seized are distributed to affected byzantine merchants.
-Welfare system established to aid those affected by the economic collapse of the trade routes.
-Courthouses quota remains the same.
Economic:
-Embargo on Venice lifted, 3/4's of Assets returned
-Major government actions to repair the trade routes throughout the Med.
-Re-direction of Trade Power to the Black Sea as temporarily source.
-Sanctions on Bulgaria imposed, prevent Bulgaria from modernizing its nation at the rate of Byzantium.
-Encourages Mercantilism.
Diplomatic:
-Official Apology to Venice.
-Byzantium ignores Bulgaria's threats.
-Byzantium has called for a Balkan-Anatolian wide coalition against Bulgaria and Ottomans
-Byzantium warns Bulgaria of expanding southward and WILL take action.
-Byzantium envoys spreading news of Bulgaria's allying with Ottomans, claiming it to return the "Former Butchers of the Balkans to Power"
Military:
-Emperor calls for atleast 30,000 Volunteers against rising tensions.
-Modernization of Military continues at a steady pace.
-Navy Modernization continues.
-Navy blockades Bulgarian coast to prevent smugglers bringing sanctioned items into Bulgaria
-Armies are on a defensive posture, preparing incase of Bulgaria fulfills its empty threats.
-

At last, the Emperor's final action that day, was to respond to a letter sent by the West.

To: (Leader of all foreign countries other than Egypt, Aztecs, and Skaavo)
From: Ruler of Comitolia, King Sev Overo de Gaspar
Subject: Diplomatic Relations
Most noble leaders of the world,
I, King Sev Overo de Gaspar of Camitolia, request the opening of formal diplomatic relations between the fantastic people of your nation and my own. In due process, I request permission to send a Comitolian diplomat to each of your courts to further the bond between us.
I thank you and am hopeful for your response,
King Sev Overo de Gaspar

To: Ruler of Comitolia, King Sev Overo de Gaspar
From: Emperor of Basileía Rhōmaíōn, Basileus Andreas Palaiologos III
Subject: RE- Diplomatic Relations
Most noble and esteemed King Overo de Gaspar,
I, Basileus Andreas Palaiologos III, has humbly accepted your suggestion to establish formal diplomatic relations between our people. Yet, due to Byzantium laws, set centuries ago, it is hereby, that any diplomatic missions that will stay a long duration in Byzantium are to be accompanied by a family member of the Royal Family, to secure a sacred trust between the two nations. The family member sent will be under constant security, and will be treaty highly and, if diplomatic relations should deteriorate, we will be noble, and allow for the family member and the diplomatic mission to return without harm.
I am humbled by your request,
Basileus Andreas Palaiologos III

[Cassinopa]

To: Byzantium
From:Bulgaria
We do not wish for an Ottoman return to europe any more than you do, but you accuse us of wishing to return under their heel when we have made it clear before that if the Balkans wish to be independent, they shall remain so? This will end one of two ways, either the Greeks wish to join you or they do not. we simply offered to them to reclaim their lost lands which you conquered by force. If they wish to join you, all is well, and we have no issue with you. however, if they wish to remain indpendant, you are encroaching on them, and we shall come to their defense. as for the Turks, the claim of us returning them to europe is laughable, as we only offered to allow them their Anatolian territories of yours, which anyone knows are part of Asia, and if what you say about the Greeks wanting a complete state is true, should you not surrender that which is Turkish to the Turks?. As long as the Turks stay to their native lands, and we do too, we should try to co-exist peacefully, not fight for supremacy. You speak of the Turks oppressing the Balkans, and yet, you conquer the Greeks by force. if they truly wish to join you, you only have to ask them.

(Basically, if the Greeks want to join you, that is their right, and we will back off. if they want to remain independent, we will contest your recent acquisitions.)

[Greater Utrecht]

Iceland
32 Miles from Keflavík, Cpt. Beckenson's Forces march upon the Rebel Encampment. From an earlier report from a scout that details 800 Armed Men from the surrounding settlements, one of the soldiers spots what appears to be the Rebel Leader: Alan Siguroad, entering a rather large tent.

On his mark, the Captain ordered 400 of his forces to attack from the east. During the attack, Siguroad ordered 316 of his forces to attack the Captain's forces while the rest will stay on guard for more enemy forces. The Captain then sent 700 of his forces to attack from the Northwest, effectively destroying a quarter of the Rebel Forces. Siguroad then ordered his men to retreat into the East where they will disband and reorganize into one of the villages. Unfortunately for the Rebels, the Captain ordered 500 of his men to ambush the rebels and let no one escape. After a bloody massacre of the Rebels, one of the Soldiers finds Siguroad's Body, lying on the ground with a bullet hole in the forehead. The Captain's Forces then returned to Keflavík to have a feast.

Denmark
During a meeting with his advisors, the old King William III suffered a stroke and since then, has been on his bed. On the event of his death, the King has left his youngest son, Thor, the Throne. The King's eldest son, Richard, disputes this and has taken desperate steps to secure the throne for himself. However, he has failed to convince his father and has since involved himself in several Conquests, all of which have ended in disaster. In one final attempt, he sent an assassin to kill his younger brother, Thor. Unfortunately, the Assassination failed and the Assassin was caught by the guards. He confessed everything to Thor and the King banished Richard to the North.

On the eve of midnight, the King succumbed to Death. Prince Thor was ready to take the throne.