Where the Sun First Touches [AP/Region Only]

[Togeria]

Asia, the Far East, Lands of the Rising Sun where spices, metals, textiles, and other wonders are not only present but in abundance. A long a fascination with the peoples on the edge of the Old World has been cause for numerous expeditions and incursions, powers both inside and out eager to obtain if only a fraction of the ever expanding riches of the Asian Far East.

But one must not let machinations of glory and gold take their mind, no matter what is spoken of the riches of the Far East no one speaks of how it is contained, or why. Indeed riches are abundant and those who have access to them keen to see they only go to their pockets. For story of a rich prince or generous king a thousand more are present of the means it took to achieve such positions.

It is a vicious cycle that permeated the earliest kingdoms and dynasties, and only passed down further to future generations. Now it is the year 1904, the Land of Silk once united has now divided once again with the final death blow dealt to the Celestial Crown and with it truly a new era and new chapter to the region. In this new and bold world the western beliefs and philosophies have found their teachings corrupted and passed down to wanting ears, incursions and conflict between the Old Western Empires and New Eastern States grow daily, and yet

There are some powers still content to follow the ways of old. To follow and adhere to tradition at most if not all cost, ridiculed and termed obsolete by more modern powers and mere roadblocks to be traversed over, and yet despite how archaic their customs they've stood tall while other's have fell, and and remained while younger and more daring powers have collapsed.

A new wind blows onto the East, as both benefiting as it is damaging. Bringing with it a storm of new customs and ideology to conflict with the status quo maintained by the old guard. To be both embraced and hated and equally indifferent to if it despised or loved it seeks only to change, and only when change is brought can the sun rise once again over the East.

[Sapientia Et Bellum]

The Heirs Of The Great Khan

A young boy of thirteen years old sits with his back against a stone fence overlooking the great valleys of inner Mongolia. He holds in his hand a crudely designed book and it is written in southern Mongolian dialect. The book details the accomplishments of Genghis Khan and his empire that stretched as far as Europe. Visions of Mongol cavalry sweeping through villages quickly fills the child's imagination as he continues to read. The boy reflects on this history that courses through his very blood and the blood of his countrymen which fills his soul with pride and meaning. The boy closes the book and sets it net to him as he gazes down into the sweeping valley that extends into the border of the Chinese heartland. He notices what appears to be a man on horseback riding through the farmland below. The boy stands and runs slightly down the slope to get a better view of the man. The boy stumbles excitedly as he notices one man turn into nearly 20. The large group of horsemen are clad in military uniforms and each one carries a noticeably large Mosin-Nagant style rifle on his back. The men also seem to be carrying short curved swords ideal for slicing from on horseback. The boy would look around and notice a larger camp in the distance of various foot soldiers, officers, cook, medics, and quartermasters. The camp was guarded by Maxim style machine guns and various forms of heavy artillery. The large group of horsemen continue to slowly make their way through the farmland towards a small Chinese farming village situated along the border of Mongolia. Villagers immediately run into the safety of their homes when the omen of death becomes visible to them. At this point, the horsemen quickly rush into the village with their swords and small arms drawn. Fleeing villagers are shot as they run from the attackers as some of the men from the houses fire out at the horseman with miscellaneous rifles. Several of the horsemen are struck as they fall painfully to the ground, their horses running off leaving the men to fend for themselves. The horsemen would quickly begin to dismount and take positions throughout the village, firing at and killing the men who fight back. Once the village is secured, the men break into the homes of the villagers and take anything of wealth including food. Next the men lock innocents into their homes as several other soldiers begin to set the homes ablaze through the use of large torches. The injured horsemen are quickly put to death by the commanding officer of the group as the village and its people begin to burn. Several motorized trucks pull up and the men load all the goods into the trucks which will return the goods to the camp. The horsemen mount up after ensuring no men, women, or children remain and ride off back to the camp along with the motorized trucks. This scene has been plaguing the villages of Northern China for the past year with little response from the Chinese Military resulting in a cycle of destruction.

[The Bio-Regional Cooperative of States]

Inheriting a Shattered Empire

---

Long ago, China was the forefront of global power, the most powerful nation on the face of the globe. Once it was strides above the West in technological development, and the leader of trade and agricultural production, the largest economy on Earth until the 1800s. It is rich in resources, Human and Natural, and bore great potential. But, as the West rose to become great powers and surpassed China, the nation was subject to harassment and increasing dissatisfaction from it's people. The Stress soon became too much to bear as the once mighty Chinese Empire, now weak and fragile, fell apart, shattering into various warlord states and opposing political factions. Divided amongst itself and plunging itself into seemingly endless conflict, the nation left its lands free to those who dared to take it, subjecting the Chinese People to falling under foreign powers and various border establishments being subject to attacks. In the midst of conflict, a new Faction would come to be. The Tongmenghui, originating a merger of various Chinese Revolutionary Groups, was once an underground resistance movement facing against Imperial Rule, but found a prime opportunity to make it's dreams realized. Across the Chinese Plains and the northern portions of the Southern Hills, Warlords, Generals, and the newly formed Armed Forces of the Chinese Republic would unify under the banner of the Republic of China, the government being Consolidated in Nanjing. The Held territory would legally be of the most populated areas of the former Chinese Empire, but as the Republican Government, and with it it's military forces, being newly established, the fringes of the territories are still subject to attack, as the Government is near powerless to prevent this. But no more. Reforms are coming at a steady pace, the Government shall no longer be divided and disorganized, the Economy has been revitalized, farms are restored to their pre-collapse abilities, industry has been expanded as much as it could with the limited funds, the Military swells in its ranks, thousands upon thousands of men are rallying under the Flag of the Republic, crying out "Freedom for China, Freedom for All!" . The Armed Forces have received more appropriate funds through recently passed more efficient tax laws, as the Warlords' Forces have been integrated into the command structure. China is starting to stir once more. The Republic promises to bring China under one flag once more, pushing these fair lands back onto the global stage. Though, The Eastern Sun does not shine as brightly as it might seem. Though the Armed Forces are being treated well, the Police are dangerously underfunded, crime is rife in the Urban Centers of the nation. Officials within the Government are not as integrous as they seem, instead of representing the people, they can turn the other way and represent the enemies of the Chinese People and corporations seeking to expand their markets. As the Fist of the Republic grows ever stronger, it seems as if the legs grow weaker by every turn of the sun. Not to mention, it has found itself surrounded by potential enemies. In order to unite China, there must be a direct confrontation with the Koreans, who hold a great portion of Manchuria, as the Mongols have proven themselves a great thorn in the side of the Country, as the frontier between the two nations faces raids from the seemingly Immortal Empire of Mongolia. As well, to the South Warlords and whatever else runs rampant, and across the South China Sea the Japanese hold onto the Northern Portion of Taiwan, a former Territory of the Empire. The Republic faces a steep mountain in the face of it's goals and promises to its own people, being weighed down by it's own internal struggles and facing the storms and vicious winds of the enemies that surround it. No matter the hell that the Free Chinese People might face, they will not simply surrender. Thousands of years have built up to this, China shall not fall under tyranny once more, China will no longer be divided. It will not be the world's punching bag, as it was time to train the nation and go on the offensive. The Flag of the Republic waves Proud in the wind, the Rising White Sun shall shine over it's enemies.

[Parcia]

The Bear.

The Nations of Asia were bickering with each other, as they always did. From the Various Chinese cliques and chiefdom to the Sleeping Shogunate across the Sea. The Land of the Tzars had grown from the small kingdoms of the Old Keivuan Rus to the mighty, continent spanning empire that stretched from the fields of Eastern Poland, to the frozen shores of the northern Pacific.

But there lies the problem. The Imperial navy lacks a warm water, pacific Fleet base.

There had been, for a time, a temporary port established at an old Colony known as "Vladivostock". The years since, during the time of the Succession crisis, The Port, as well as most of the province had been ceded to the local Korean governments and left as such.

The Crisis was a 5 year length of time that started with the death of Tzar Alexander the III and the disappearance of his wife. Thus leaving the 5 children of the Old Tzar to fight. The Oldest, Nicholas II, was a tall, brash young man of loyal nature, yet many could see he was of simple mind, Not fully suited for the right of Imperial Rule. Next was George, the "Weeping willow" and arguably the Favorite of the late Empress's children. He hid a mischievous nature and was a clever lad.


Next, is the Middle Child, Alexandra Ekaterina. Arguably the most...Dangerous of the five and the one who would come to sit on the throne. A Raven Haired beauty, as apposed to the Brunet coloration of her siblings, causing doubts to form as to who her actual father was. She kept her demeanor calm and cold, hiding an intelligence and whit that would make George Blush. There were also rumors that the young Empress had certain...Arcane talents.

The Grand Duke Micheal was dead. The 4th child was only notable due to his involvement with a married women, and due to the shunning, both had been shipped off to the far east some time later. they were found a few months later, dead, their single daughter being ransomed off to the Family by a still at large group of Socialist rebels.

The young niece had since been taken in by Alexandra and largely kept out of the lime light.

The youngest child, Ketrin, was kept as low a life as possible as well. Being a noted medical professional and the first accredited doctor to graduate from Moscow University (with most resistance being quietly silenced by the Tzarista) There also rumors of her using this knowledge of medical science in combination with similar knowledge of arcane magiks, infusing the two in ways most couldn't fathom. There were also unsubstantiated Rumors that she was a homosexual.

The Crisis, in a sense, was a prolonged period of political maneuvering, assassinations of lesser nobles, and exchanges of powers and favors that culminated in what most thought to be the underdog in obtaining the throne. This resulted in a shift in political stances.

With the new Tzarista on the throne, Nicholas found his role more suiting in the Imperial Army, leading multiple expeditions in to various boarder regions and former colonies, securing Imperial assets and the like.
Alexandra found her self, as the new monarch on the throne, split between trying to keep the good graces of the various Western Kingdoms and keeping the largely Neglected Far East Territories.

She had three pet projects. The first was the early completion of the Trans Siberian Railway network, connecting most of the Empire together through a network Railroads and support structures and greatly aiding in the movement of men and materials. The Second, was the situation with the Cossacks in the Crimea. The rebellious group of peoples had been a thorn in the side of the Romanov family for years. While many of them served in the imperial military as officer, none did so with such renown as the famous Bear Calvary. Despite this, the chiefs as been raising problems as of late, raiding Moorish ships and settlements.


The third project is securing a warm water Pacific port, but that would prove to be more difficult then she thought.

[Acerbez]

The Crocodile of Sichuan
The Shen Arbiter Regime

Generalissimo Mei Keng Ming
Stylized: Dai Eyu (The patient crocodile)
Age:31
Figurehead of the Tongzhimen SAR

The turbulent state of a fragmented Zhonguo and prominent warlord style governance consistently held the land in a grip of chaos. The revolutionary groups united in binging about the downfall of the previous dynasty had failed to see eye to eye after the matter. The Tongmenghui deeming themselves as the inheritors of the sovereign rule was not cause for spite, as this was the intention after the fall. No the split was deeper than in name, it was the very ideals and methods of forming the state that caused a further fissure but almost calculated fracture among the revolutionary groups.

In what was felt as a failure to address the true underlying issue, the division in the hearts of even the people who participated in the revolution. Self esteem and doubt filled the mind and soul of the people and guidance was needed before they were just given liberty they had never enjoyed, proper institution and tutelage was demanded to guide and consul the people back to posterity. The stark contrast of the Tongmenghui were the Tongzhimen. A politically prominent group within the Tongmenghui revolution who shared the nationalistic purview's and ambition to be the masons and architects of the very foundation they wished to see. Wishing to see the abundant north consolidate resources and specialists to match the southern work force mass who could be orchestrated in a beautiful crescendo of unity and prosperity, they were only let down when the Tongmenghui insisted on freely giving value and liberty to individuals who had not merited or had the educated opinion to think for themselves. Not to say that every southerner had earned this merit either, but the various interests groups organized throughout the revolution could bring about this change and ensure that every man woman and child would be provided the tools necessary to do such! In the fight of left and right wing politics, in a world of communal effort and capitalistic endeavor, the Tongzhimen were centralized in an ideology not yet explored. They were corporatist, a body believing that every niche industry, enterprise, or institution should be organized into interest groups and coordinate with a single policy making party to ensure that both citizen and enterprise be harmonized to create a synergized way of living with Chinese principle and values at the very front of every pursuit... Not individual liberty and freedom. Group effort designed by those who understand through participation and education what is needed for society to proceed fruitfully.

So, the Tongzhimen, Comrades, formed to the south of the republic among the southern provinces. The Shen state, an arbiter or guiding hand of the people and enterprise. The SAR.

---

太晚了台湾
Tai wanle, Taiwan.
Too late, Taiwan.

From the docking ports of Quanzhou they had departed. The city itself was bustling and a bit chaotic, dreary and shuffling from import and export. Businesses and opportunists took great value in the effect of supply and demand, especially on such a close front to the divide. Those that liked to play on the edge would curtsy to whichever sovereign force laid claim and bow before their armed naval ships only to attempt to swipe every bit of coin and bill they could before leaving. Japanese, Korean, and Chinese alike stopped here, but those who were stopping here were of little importance to this tale. It is more so in regards to those who were departing.

Fengxian, a man of the cause, a firm and robust believer and supporter of the Shen and ultimately an intellectual standard of the nationalistic zeal they maintained was aboard the trade ship headed to Taiwan. East to the port of Hsinchu, seeking to avoid directly going the proximity of Taipei or its significant counterpart Tanshui as fire arm contraband was smuggled across the strait. There were 3 together as Shen, although not together in objective. A Photographer, with luggage appropriate for his brownie camera and its accessories. A shoe maker toting his wares looking to sell for prices not found on the mainland if possible, and lastly a musician, carrying with him luggage and carrying case for his traditional zither. Each of them headed to the same port city but afterwards to different cities or perhaps not.

One of these men is Fengxian, with the sole intent to incite, agitate, and shed blood in the name of the SAR.

[Sapientia Et Bellum]

North And South

Nearly 2000 riflemen, each armed with an M1891 Mosin Nagant, slowly penetrate their way through the spacious Tibetan Plateaus of the Qinghai region. The flanks, rear, and front of the massive military formation is guarded by large cavalry units of around 50 horses each with armed cavalry men on each armed with M1891s and cavalry swords alike. The front cavalry formation would be led, on horseback, by the modern military leader Shiramun Khan. The lands known as Mongolia had long been ruled by the great Khans since the dawn of he who named himself Genghis. Shiramun was named from a young age by the Dalai Lama to be the direct reincarnation of Ghengis Khan. This spiritual right to the leadership of Mongolia created the perfect upbringing for the future mongol warrior. He would be trained in traditional mongol combat including archery from a young age and would further become trained in the use of early rifles which allowed him to perfect his aim from horseback. Upon seizing the leadership of the Khanate, Shiramun would immediately begin revitalizing the military of the Mongolia while ensuring tradition would be kept. Tradition would be the unifying glue of the military with modern Mongolian cavalry training through the massacre and pillaging of Chinese settlements in the north. The practice of Tibetan Buddhism would be enforced among the ranks as Shiramun saw personal spiritual development as essential to creating a new class of proficient warriors. The introduction of the Russian M1891 into the Mongol horde truly brought it into the modern age along with western practices of drilling and marching. The massive formation would continue to work its way through Qinghai, avoiding all Chinese settlement while actively seeking out Buddhist temples for personal guidance. The formation would eventually reach the edges of Southern China as the point of the forced march was not only a practice of military obedience and structure but also because Shiramun Khan had decided to seek audience with the people and leaders of Southern China due to concerns over the actions of the governing body of the Chinese heartland.

[Acerbez]

1904, The Southern Shen Territories

The argumentative split from the Tongmenghui and the Tongzhimen meant an immediate withdrawal from the central provinces which were strongly influenced by the Tongmenghui. Armed forces of the SAR were hastily recalled to fall back beyond the border zone to avoid any chance of ambush or pre-emptive strikes from the Republican forces- not that there was a threat of such but the art of war states to expect the unexpected and Dai Eyu was not willing to take any chances.

The 4th and 6th armies of the SAR were pulled through the south flowing Yangtze river towards the Capital of Chongqing and for the 6th army to garrison in the basin City of Chengdu to oversee the order of the agricultural operations of state. The 4th army, consisting of the most trained soldiers, especially in mountain and Guerrilla operations maintained spread force throughout the gorges and mountain passes of Chongqing province to ensure the safety of the Capital and create a fortified position not worth assailing militarily.

Hubei
Dai Eyu devised a more abstract method instead of approaching the consolidation and hopeful take over of the neighboring northern province, Hubei. Learning much from his tutelage and observations through the war against the colonial powers protecting the previous dynasty he designed to set about changing the opinions of the people. Merchants from Hubei and Sichuan made grand use of the Yangtze river. The Established Farmers association of the Shen Arbiter Regime would travel with not only written certifications of their membership but also openly display these consigned arrangements. Guerillas were now being ordered to discard their uniforms and change over to ordinary articles of civilians. 4 different cells were established of 50 men each and spread to the proximity of cities to essentially brigand and bandit the commodities and goods of non marked vessels. Pamphlets were spread within the province of Chongqing and also Hubei's south exclaiming the SAR's capacity and drive to rid the chaos of banditry and establish order but exclusively to those that consigned themselves to the Farmers Association of the Shen. Peasants would be bribed to spread rumor and stories of the successful altercations of the Shen liberating and returning their stolen goods to further inspire public sentiment, paid more handsomely for the spread in southern Hubei. The goal was to bring merchants, farmers, and traders under the umbrella of the Shen Arbiter party without direct military action and redirect the flow of goods, profit, and ultimately control of the peoples sentiments.

The Cells of 50 guerrillas would be given the green light to attack freely upon unmarked vessels, and cause as much strife as possible upon insecure ships traversing the river and also caravans that traveled the valley. The Cities heavily inconveniences would be Guangyan, Wan Xian, Fengjie, and Zhongxian. All cities under the influence of the Tongmenhui just north of the Capital. Meanwhile the entirety of the 4th army would impose themselves on the remainder of the Chongqing province awaiting the moment to politely request the withdrawal of any Tongmenghui. Influx's of contingents would pour from Chongqing steadily in order to dissuade armed conflict but also intimidate any Tongmenghui who decided to hold their ground. (This is all in Chongqing, im building towards Hubei. Seeing as i dont own all of Chongqing provinc as of now).

Fujian

The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd armies withdrew south onto both Fujian, Hunan, and Jiangxi. On standby awaiting orders post withdrawal.

---

The Khan's arrival

The positioning of the 6th army mean that the force of 2000 descending from the north was not without alarm or notice. The regional political governor of Jiuzhaiguo would stiffen the posture of the forces garrisoning the forts and city itself but feared that the Mongolian forces seeked to do what they were rumored to be best at... Raiding. Not only was Chengdu a key asset to the SAR buut the entire province of Sichuan was an abundant state that provided much for the efforts before, now, and future operations. It could not be sacked under no circumstances. The governor would send a contingent of 20 men firstly to ascertain the Mongols purpose, politely of course. After being informed of their intentions, the force of 2000 would be guided to the front gates of the City of Jiuzhaiguo where they would see a force awaiting them upon the ramparts and also every nook and cranny. Armed with Mondragon rifles secured via a trade deal from Guangzhou and Dai Eyu, the Governor would insist that it was standard procedure for them to enter the city if they wished to retain their firearms and not have them confiscated. The Governor however wished to confiscate the fire arms however was instructed by the man he had informed at the same time the governor had sent scouts to parlay with the Mongols.

This man was Field General Tai En Seng of the 6th army. He insisted that it was not only be a disservice to the Mongolian visitors to request them to give away their arms but also a fruitless endeavor. It made no sense for a small force to travers Gansu without raiding a single settlement and would be a disastrous whim to decide to spark a conflict now after all the distance between them and home. Unknowing of the Mongol Soveriegn's presence among the group- It was assumed someone of higher status was present however. This assumption was to be treated with respect and treatied with as an equal. They carry their weapons, and the Shen shall carry ours. However, as a security parameter, the Governor of Jiuzhaiguo was to inform the visitors after their entree into the city, they should expect to take rest for lunch. At which point the Field General would like to discuss the purpose of the small force's visit. Shen soldiers were instructed to not visibly train weapons upon the visitors but be ready at a moments notice to contain any break out if foul play should occur.

The meals prepared would be sponsored by the Shen treasury, and by word of mouth would do their best to provide game meat as was heard to be enjoyed by the Mongols and less emphasized on sea food. Tai En Seng awaited in the halls of the large municipal government building for his guests.

[Parcia]

Pacific Ocean, with in the Waters of the Akarou Shogunate

The Three Cruisers were all of the Pallada Class.

The Pallada, Diana, and Aurora were officially the only three ships of the Imperial pacific Squadron as they were the only ones thus far to make the long and dangerous journey through the arctic passage. They were loaded to bare, not with guns and ammo (though they did carry a full armament and appropriate munitions) They were loaded with goods. Furs, ore, Machining tools, Books, Finely mad tapestries, inlayed rifles and pistols, works of art.


All of this, a virtual fortune, to establish favor with the rather mystical leaders and perhaps, grow a bond of friendship between the Dragon and the Bear. There were, among the many crewmen, standard party of Marines, and a few minor Diplomats, stood one Sergey Borislav. He was, as of recently, named as the Foreign Minister of the Tzar and has personally proposed this mission to her last year.

The young Tzarista was first, apprehensive, at the prospect of opening up relations to such an unknown party (mostly due to the rumors of the Lot being demons worshipers, something she was...acquainted with her self) but the more Borislav explained it to her, she grew to like the idea.


So, with roughly a years worth of preparations, and a few pulled strings, the three Cruisers left the ports in Europe with the goods a few months prior with the goal of reaching the Lands of the Shogun. They sailed TO with in the port of Osaka and stopped, dropping anchor and sending ashore a small group of marines along side the Minister.

[The Akarou Shogunate]

赤狼幕府

The Akarō Shogunate

---

For over four hundred years, Japan has been under the de-facto rule of the Akarō clan, who were the ultimate victors of all the combatants in the bloody struggles of the Sengoku period. Prior to the late conflicts of that age, they were actually a rather minor clan with no particularly storied past or glories to be told of, and are generally speaking beneath even a footnote's level of mention. Their rapid gains in power and influence, and the gathering of other forces to their service was one of the great surprises of the era, gathering up most of the remaining territories of Japan to their service just prior to the death of Oda Nobunaga, and seizing ultimate control by the defeat of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Such a miraculous event should've never happened. This impossible turn of events was partially because of the military capability and charisma of Akarō Norihiro(赤狼憲博), but to be entirely honest that while above average, his ability was most certainly inferior to those other legendary men of the period. Good fortune played a significant part of the matter as well, but there was one other trick the Akarō had up their sleeve, one they made certain to use judiciously and to avoid allowing its true nature to be fully revealed. One which, despite these efforts, has nonetheless found its way into rumour and whisper ever since. For, under the strictest of definitions, the Akarō clan are not entirely human. Indeed, six or seven generations preceding him, a monster entered the Akarō bloodline. The blood of the Oni is not so easily washed away as any human traits may be, and its manner of transmission is not precisely the same as ordinary genetic information.

Those of the Akarō lineage to this very day(though this is more a result of intentional planning and occasional inbreeding than the staying power of the blood alone) still retain the beast's mark. Save for in rare cases in which the blood flows particularly strongly, it is difficult to recognize the inhuman ancestry of members of the clan except for when they call upon its power. The abilities of those capable of doing so are all unique and not hereditary, and thus the actual usefulness, application, and details vary substantially. Still, such things proved to be very useful trump cards in the field, and despite efforts to keep it under wraps, gossip and rumours have still bled out over the centuries.

This power, as with all dealings with demons, comes at a price however. It is rare for members of the Akarō clan to live past their fifties as a general rule, and the few that do almost frequently end their lives in madness. Many die at childbirth or in their early years, and the bloodline is riddled with problems. Further, the more one calls upon the oni's power, the more it consumes its holder. Should they go to far, the power begins to warp the victim's mind and often their body as well, and they lose all trace of sanity and become little more than bloodthirsty demons. Even should they never use their powers, the pull grows stronger with age and many begin to crack. Suicide is thus an extremely common terminus for the Akarō. Despite this, however, the clan leadership finds this to be an acceptable tradeoff in exchange for the abilities it grants them, and thus continue to ensure its prominence within the bloodline.

Since the Shimabara Rebellion, they have maintained a policy of isolation from the outside world as to maintain the integrity of Japanese culture and to limit the influence of foreign powers. In this time, they have worked to uphold their way of life, and to expunge other elements deemed to be "detrimental to the core of Japanese identity", including the separation of Shinto and Buddhism and the persecution of the latter.

However, this period of isolation ended nearly fifty years ago, when it became apparent how untenable this position had become. The Shogunate decided to open up, just a bit, and allow foreigners onto the island of Okinawa for trade. Further, it was concluded that if they were to survive, Japan needed to modernize its industry and military to compete with the rest of the world.

During this initial period, a struggle ensued between the Shogun and the Imperial Court, as the latter attempted to retake control of the nation from the former. A civil war between the two powers began, and in the end the Shogun was victorious, the old Emperor deposed and a relative replaced on the Chrysanthemum Throne to once again act as mere puppet and figurehead.

The end result was that while Japan would adopt Western technology and infrastructure, they would continue to zealously guard their culture and would not reform the government or even really adopt Western dress beyond some military elements. As such the nation remains feudal, divided between the daimyo whose loyalty is sworn to the Shogun. Despite this, after the Boshin War power was somewhat further centralized around the office of the Shogun itself. The lands and titles of those who sided with the Imperial Court were stripped and given to loyalists or taken by the Akarō clan itself, reducing the overall number of landed vassals.

As for the military, the Akarō clan's forces swelled after the war, and all lords of the realm were mandated to maintain standing armies of conscripts and volunteers in addition to their existing samurai and ashigaru. Equipment was standardized, manufactured by order of the Shogun and offered for sale to the daimyo to arm their new units at a discount price(though they were still allowed to procure their own as long as it met the required standards). While not accepting western culture, experts in engineering and military affairs were brought in from all over the world to help in the modernization process. Ships were ordered and constructed from Western Europe to act as the foundation of the Shogunate's navy(though these were, of course, technically just aspects of the Akarō navy. Other clans were left responsible for procuring their own vessels.)

By the current year, 1904, Japan, and more importantly, the Shogunate are now ready to look outwards, as well as within. The time has come to stop simply focusing on the interior and instead to expand and spread their control and way of life across the Pacific and Mainland Asia. It was simply a matter of determining where and when to start.

太晚了台湾
Tai wanle, Taiwan.
Too late, Taiwan.

From the docking ports of Quanzhou they had departed. The city itself was bustling and a bit chaotic, dreary and shuffling from import and export. Businesses and opportunists took great value in the effect of supply and demand, especially on such a close front to the divide. Those that liked to play on the edge would curtsy to whichever sovereign force laid claim and bow before their armed naval ships only to attempt to swipe every bit of coin and bill they could before leaving. Japanese, Korean, and Chinese alike stopped here, but those who were stopping here were of little importance to this tale. It is more so in regards to those who were departing.

Fengxian, a man of the cause, a firm and robust believer and supporter of the Shen and ultimately an intellectual standard of the nationalistic zeal they maintained was aboard the trade ship headed to Taiwan. East to the port of Hsinchu, seeking to avoid directly going the proximity of Taipei or its significant counterpart Tanshui as fire arm contraband was smuggled across the strait. There were 3 together as Shen, although not together in objective. A Photographer, with luggage appropriate for his brownie camera and its accessories. A shoe maker toting his wares looking to sell for prices not found on the mainland if possible, and lastly a musician, carrying with him luggage and carrying case for his traditional zither. Each of them headed to the same port city but afterwards to different cities or perhaps not.

One of these men is Fengxian, with the sole intent to incite, agitate, and shed blood in the name of the SAR.

After the conquest of the Ryukyu Kingdom, the first step beyond Japan for the Shogun was the seizure and occupation of Taiwan in the 90s. As a strategically important territory and one of the gateways to the mainland, it found itself under the direct administration of the Akarō Clan(Although not by the Shogun personally). Most of the island was left alone to the natives, and while patrols were still sent through and outposts here and there established, it was never really the focus. The Western and Northern Coasts, however, found themselves quite firmly under the eye of their new overlords, setting themselves up in the capital of Taihoku.

Despite banning immigration into Taiwan from territories not within the empire(Though foreigners are permitted to visit the port at Shinchiku similarly to the foreign quarter of Okinawa), the Shogunate concluded on a process of gradual assimilation rather than extermination or other forceful methods of bringing the region into the empire's fold. As it stands now, while Japanese is taught in schools and Japanese culture strongly exported, as well as encouraging immigration from Japan itself into the undeveloped parts of the island for expansion, there have been no serious attempts to remove the Han and aboriginal populations from the region. Even Buddhism, which has been persecuted within Japan for centuries now, is less frowned upon, and overall the government is rather lax in regards to the way the Taiwanese people live their lives.

The Shogun demands only their loyalty and tithes of capital and conscripts as all other subjects are required, though at a reduced rate as a newly acquired territory. Efforts to set up railway lines are currently underway, and the ports of Taiwan have been transformed into Navy strongholds. The Shogun is magnanimous and benevolent to those who serve, however his law is absolute, and those who resist the Akarō or their vassals are dealt with harshly and swiftly, and the island is essentially under martial law even ten years after the start of the occupation. Some paramilitary militias and "police" organizations have been established as well, especially in more out-of-the-way territories, but Akarō soldiers still comprise the majority of the island's police force.

This is the land that Fengxian would find himself entering, an island under the watchful eye of the Akarō and the Shogun's boot.

Pacific Ocean, with in the Waters of the Akarou Shogunate

The Three Cruisers were all of the Pallada Class.

The Pallada, Diana, and Aurora were officially the only three ships of the Imperial pacific Squadron as they were the only ones thus far to make the long and dangerous journey through the arctic passage. They were loaded to bare, not with guns and ammo (though they did carry a full armament and appropriate munitions) They were loaded with goods. Furs, ore, Machining tools, Books, Finely mad tapestries, inlayed rifles and pistols, works of art.


All of this, a virtual fortune, to establish favor with the rather mystical leaders and perhaps, grow a bond of friendship between the Dragon and the Bear. There were, among the many crewmen, standard party of Marines, and a few minor Diplomats, stood one Sergey Borislav. He was, as of recently, named as the Foreign Minister of the Tzar and has personally proposed this mission to her last year.

The young Tzarista was first, apprehensive, at the prospect of opening up relations to such an unknown party (mostly due to the rumors of the Lot being demons worshipers, something she was...acquainted with her self) but the more Borislav explained it to her, she grew to like the idea.


So, with roughly a years worth of preparations, and a few pulled strings, the three Cruisers left the ports in Europe with the goods a few months prior with the goal of reaching the Lands of the Shogun. They sailed TO with in the port of Osaka and stopped, dropping anchor and sending ashore a small group of marines along side the Minister.

The party would be met upon their arrival at *Shinchiku Cho by a "greeting" unit of sorts, an odd looking unit that quickly summarized the contradictions of the Shogunate itself all in one. It was a platoon sized formation of Akarō marines, dressed in semi-Western uniforms of a deep red colour and armed with Type 30 rifles. However, the "command squad" of the unit consisted of "ashigaru" and their obviously samurai leader in more traditional dress and armour, but who, likewise, carried with them modern weaponry despite the fact.

The group's leader would call out to the new arrivals in the local Hokkien dialect. Truth be told, he was unsure of what language they even should be using to communicate, but he assumed that it was probably better to try with some form of Chinese than with his native tongue.
"In the name of Akarō, the Shogun, and the Emperor, we request that you state your origin and your business here. It is highly unusual for warships such as yours to come by here, especially without prior notice."

*Retconned port location after RMB discussion

[Parcia]

""In the name of Akarō, the Shogun, and the Emperor, we request that you state your origin and your business here. It is highly unusual for warships such as yours to come by here, especially without prior notice.""

The Minister, like many men of the Court, spoke a chosen few tongues, Parcian, of course, as well as some basic Chinese (mandarin in dialect) as well as a good bit of English. He, also, spoke French to a high degree.

So, Sergey, recognizing the man Spike to him in the Tongue of the mainland, returned in such. (Chinese)"Do we maybe speck French?"

The Marines would stand Opposite their Asian Counterparts, M1891s Slung.

[The Akarou Shogunate]

""In the name of Akarō, the Shogun, and the Emperor, we request that you state your origin and your business here. It is highly unusual for warships such as yours to come by here, especially without prior notice.""

The Minister, like many men of the Court, spoke a chosen few tongues, Parcian, of course, as well as some basic Chinese (mandarin in dialect) as well as a good bit of English. He, also, spoke French to a high degree.

So, Sergey, recognizing the man Spike to him in the Tongue of the mainland, returned in such. (Chinese)"Do we maybe speck French?"

The Marines would stand Opposite their Asian Counterparts, M1891s Slung.

The samurai, a bearded man in his early thirties, would reply in French, though his sentences were terse and simplistic.

"A little. Enough for this." He then repeated his earlier remarks, though cutting it short and to the essentials this time.

[Sapientia Et Bellum]

The Great Feast

The riflemen, still remaining within their lines, would stare intently forward towards the great gates of Jiuzhaiguo as the front cavalry would begin to reshuffle itself as the great Shiramun Khan would advance to the front of the line upon his own horse. He would be dressed plainly in a uniform similar to that of an officer however the ceremonial sword and armor of his horse would be enough to pronounce him as the figure of importance. The Kahn would look upon the ramparts at the eyes of the men who stood upon it as they themselves would likewise be overtaken by the khans steely gaze. Through this simple act, the Khan would nod silently and awaited for the gates to be opened. The khan would provoke his horse and his troops into motion as they entered the city, escorted by the local armed forces towards the government building in which the feast had been prepared. The riflemen and horsemen alike would spread into thinner lines in order to compensate for the width of the city streets that they now marched upon. No man within the force would divert his eyes from the neck of the man in front of him as the sounds of a living city echoed through their ear drums. Locals would notice the Khan and would flock to see the commotion made by the foreign force yet no local would be permitted to see the eyes of the mongol horde. The men would arrive at the building at which case the Kahn halted the troops and dismounted his horse. He would spend an hour individually going through each line to each soldier in order to inspect their uniform, cleanliness, and the weapons they carried before being individually dismissed into the hall. Each soldier would remain eternally silent as they sat upon the great rows of tables and benches that would soon become bountiful with food. Finally, The Khan and his fellow officers would enter the building in which every soldier snapped back to their feet within an instant. Satisfied with this, the Khan and his officers would walk to the table which seated Tai En Seng. The Khan would allow for his officers his sit before turning his attention to his men who remain at attention. He would slowly raised his clenched fist before releasing it to reveal his palm. This act results in the horde going back to their seats and the destruction of silence as the hall is filled with the voices of Buddhist prayers and basic comradery. The Khan would delicately bow to Tai En Seng and his officers before taking his place at the table. He would allow Seng to begin the conversation out of respect for the host.

[Togeria]

Zi Dynasty:

"The Empire long divided, must unite. Long united, must divide. So it has always been.", Famous words quoted in the works of those to our west, far and long have their people long have endured the hardships of separation; to have the claws of mistrust, corruption, and grandeur corrupt men's souls and cause them to lash against their Bon-gwan. These descriptions and attributes have long applied to those to our west and even to our east, but they have not had to endure such hardships alone, nor as greatly as us. Simple farmers and mountain folks of which morning calm washes over us and yet so much of our history has been dictated to that of vile tyrants or those abroad who seek to install their puppets and overseers to rear and control us.

Yet, these men and foreigners understand little of our way, of what these lands demand from those who inhabit them. Once there was a time when even we did not truly grasp the value of these lands. From the highland steppe, the mountain chains of the eastern lands, valleys of the west and south. Rich in resources full enough to turn any commoner to a king tenfold and any lowly farmer to a gamdog, but it was not for the purpose of this land this gift to man created by purpose and with intent by the Mogsoli, forged by the Zin.

The first miracle of the Zin would be the revelations of his Yeeonja Bul, though these teachings once pure would through generations and human meddling become corrupted and teach the wrong path. The message of reincarnations and enlightenment diluted, though because of the times before the word would be brought to these lands the people would remain ignorant. It would not be until a longer than a millennium and a half after the birth of the Savior that his word be unveiled to this peninsula.

The ruling elite misconstrued the word and branded propaganda, seeking to eradicate those who had found the word and sought to live by it. Our peaceful forefathers and ancestors forced into the eastern mountains and made to hide like hermits, forced to conceal and feign ignorance of their beliefs. It was a dark time in which the heads of hundreds of believers, apostles, and preachers, but in time the manhunts would cease and though still hunted the Joseon would end their pursuit. It was a uneasing peace which our early ancestors had to endure, but they did. Convening in private. In the year 1700, after many campaigns of the Joseon led to the independence of the peninsula from Chinese incursions the Imperial treasury laid bare and the Imperial army fatigued. A prominent preacher, Zi Nam-Hwan the first of the Zi clan, he and his followers practiced a branch of Christianity named "Mu Jeobjeom Byeog".

A believe that mixed aspects of Christian and Buddhist thought, believing prayer and meditation to be the same with emphasizes on communion, meditation as a form of self-prayer, and a belief that of Buddha as an apostle of the Word, but his message corrupted and soon lost the Son serves as bridge linking both the First Revelation (teachings of Buddha) to the Third Revelations (teachings of Martin Luther). The followers particularly those of the Zi clan preach and practice a community based lifestyle the Confucian based beliefs of the region serving as a bedrock for which the clan functions.

Zi Nam-Hwan would with 100 followers would travel to the imperial capital of Hanseong and would offer their support and arms to the King for freedom of faith to his followers. The young king of the Joseon would accept and for 45yrs Zi Nam-Hwan would serve faithfully to the Joseon, working as a civil servant and occasional general to pacify areas that in this time of weakness sought to rise against Imperial authority. It wouldn't be until his death that the seeds of conflict would begin to sow between the Mu Jeobjeom Byeog and Joseon, who felt the beliefs of the former and their proximity to both Hanseong and the other centers of power such as Pyongyang as subversive and destabilizing to their reign.

The Mu Jeobjeom Byeog had not been ignorant how ever and under the leadership of their successor Zi Nam-Bae, who would in areas that this men were ordered to govern would begin holding communions, building some centers, and as Zi Nam-Bae himself was stationed within Jeolla would begin trade with the Japanese. It would be half way through his life that Nam-Bae's worst fears would erupt as the Imperial court would issue a law prohibiting the worship of "subversive practices" a clear target against him and his believers. And as such the Mu Rebellion would erupt within first the southern province of Jeolla and Gangwon.

For 30yrs the peninsula would be engulfed within a storm of violence that only until the year of 1775 would it be settled. The Mu Jeobjeom who in decades prior had been on the verge of near extinction had grown and risen, the beliefs that spread resonating deeply within the more agrarian and ill-traversed regions. For most the war the Mu Jeobjeom would fight from this position, as guns began to enter from the foreign interactions the Mu Jeobjeom would build increasingly more defensive positions. The help of those to the Far West as well as the Ilbon across the shared belief of the Savior the Mu Jeobjeom were of fascination to the Westerners who too held the interest of the mountain men. Curious they wished to procure knowledge of the Holy Land, medicines, and weapons. Though rare their position within the south allowed them first contact and as this contact grew first with the Portuguese but than the Dutch, the fruit of success became more attainable.

In the year 1785, the Zi would push the Joseon past Pyongyang, winning the city and establishing rule over most of Korea. However a problem still remained, despite their years of coexistence the Mu Jeobjeom were still viewed as outsiders, the nobles having fled to join the Joseon against the subversive rabble.

On orders of Zi Nam-Gi the Peninsula would restructured to its greatest extent since when the Joseon first took power. The eastern lands were to be made a special zone of equally shared but unclaimed by the reigning powers of Korea, the south the portal of commerce and communication to the outside world was to be governed in a way separate from the rest of the mainland, some foreigners (Chinese or Protestant) would be allowed timed stays within ports of the south such as Busan, and within later century trade would be opened with the Ilbon on Jeju.

This left the remaining areas of the peninsula proper under the Mu, who would after now decades of having Hanseong under their administration would rename the city to Seoul. Zi Nam-Gi would be renamed Zi Seoul-Gi the following year and this would mark the start of the "Zi Dynasty". Zi however knew his legitimacy and true control over the peninsula was both little and challenged as long as the Joseon remained an active force, as such to further reforms would be made to governance of provinces as Seoul-Gi would be mark himself the first amongst his believers to travel outside the peninsula. To the northern frontier, conquered and still in name loyal to the Joseon, Seoul-Gi would work to switch the loyalties of these horsemen and steppe peoples, loyalty which would only be bought through promises of greater freedom, Gi would accept.

Though incomplete in his work due to his death Zi Seoul-Gi for a time was held to be the greatest of the Zi though he was the first. The early part of the new century being a period of stagnation to the newly formed dynasty. Fighting for both legitimacy and survival the pressures of war soon drained them, leading to a period of deadlock where the nation seemed in paralysis inflicted by the constant warfare of two competing Imperial thrones.

Taking the throne within the year of 1852, Zi Seoul-Ki would reign the longest of any monarch within the Zi, doing so for a period of forty years in which he saw the gradual introduction of westernized city planing, education, and a centralization of power. First consolidating power within the immediate realms of his imperial authority he would work to spread the teaching and practice of Hangul through collecting old stories, tales, and legends within the peninsula and beyond into the frontier he would have scholars simplify many of these stories and begin to have them taught in mandatory schools, redistributing land back to smaller farmers he would use revenue to begin constructing roads from the major capital cities into the frontier and countryside while at the same encouraging the growth marketplaces and zones of commerce created as a side-effect of these policies. Lastly he would reorganize the military, establishing a ministry of defense tasked with recruiting among the nations down trodden and poor first through a system that sought to turn these men from Nongbu (poor, peasants) into Zinsa (gentlemen) the virtues of military services would be:
Loyalty:
Piety:
Cooperation:
Discipline:
Self-Sacrifice

These men under the payment of: Food, Shelter, Land, Coin, and Knowledge would be recruited to serve as both soldiers and agents of both Imperial Authority and the Word to defend and aid communities within the nation. This led to creation of documented Oath of Service in which men within the peninsula would pledge upwards of 20yrs to serve the Emperor and state. Old weapons and armor would be taken and used to melt down for simpler swords and guns. Some of these contracts didn't apply to military needs and could be applicable to the general administrative needs of the Imperial Authority. Contracts between the Imperial Clan and others clans would see the creation of the Ministry's of Administration and Liaison. Smiths, Mines, and other such industries would be organized into bigger units of productions that could fuel the growing needs of the Imperial House.

As the Zi consolidated their policies would bring ire and interest from the peoples of the peninsula both nobility and commoner, outsiders bringing forth more change that threatened to upheave the social order. In reaction to this a Council collected from the Gentry, Pious, and Common would meet within a mixed assembly of 190 men taken from 160 from the 8 provinces and 30 from the frontier. This mixed assembly would be convened year round with members elected on a timed basis according to their lineage and history in relation to the Zi and state.

OOC: So basically the four classes are Nobility, Clergy, Merchants, and Common people. The Nobles and clergy hold the shortest term but have first vote and the longest discussion time, while Merchants and Commonmen are elected longer but have shorter vote time and discussion time.

These reforms would see the first sparks of progress into the Korean peninsula and for the first time since the founding of the Joseon and since the beginning the Era of War, the peninsula was settling towards peace. Zi Seoul-Ki would pass in the 1890s however though the legacy he left didn't serve as a frame of which the Korean society could be viewed he left behind a blueprint of which a modern Korea could be formed. His successor Zi Seoul-Dae would take the throne in 1897:



The young king wished to end the last influences of Joseon and begin the process of true Korean unification. The system set by his forefathers though having given time and stability to the state now prove to be just as big of an obstacle to unity as the previous decades of war. On his orders diplomats have been dispatched to the west as well as to the Island of Japan and across the mainland to China.

He has been left in the legacy of great men who each have taken a step to future progress, Seoul-Dae will continue this. His goals are simply solidify the border of which he will need to fully integrate the Frontier and have China recognize this new realm. Further, the once quiet north has began to stir. Westerns speaking in harsh and unrefined tones push increasingly south. They bear great arms, they, an untamed Horde west, and once unified state of China stalk like vultures upon the frontier, waiting.

Zi-Seoul Dae had made it mission, Korea would have her peace, and it would be a peace that would be golden.

[Parcia]

""In the name of Akarō, the Shogun, and the Emperor, we request that you state your origin and your business here. It is highly unusual for warships such as yours to come by here, especially without prior notice.""

The Minister, like many men of the Court, spoke a chosen few tongues, Parcian, of course, as well as some basic Chinese (mandarin in dialect) as well as a good bit of English. He, also, spoke French to a high degree.

So, Sergey, recognizing the man Spike to him in the Tongue of the mainland, returned in such. (Chinese)"Do we maybe speck French?"

The Marines would stand Opposite their Asian Counterparts, M1891s Slung.

The samurai, a bearded man in his early thirties, would reply in French, though his sentences were terse and simplistic.

"A little. Enough for this." He then repeated his earlier remarks, though cutting it short and to the essentials this time.

The Minister cocked his head and nodded. Continuing in French, "I am the Foreign Minister to Her highness Tzarista Alexandra Ekaterina, Sergey Borislav. I come, bearing the gifts held with in the holds of these three Cruisers as a sign of friendship and good will. If possible, I do wish to speak to your leaders in order to secure proper lines of Diplomacy."

[The Akarou Shogunate]

The samurai, a bearded man in his early thirties, would reply in French, though his sentences were terse and simplistic.

"A little. Enough for this." He then repeated his earlier remarks, though cutting it short and to the essentials this time.

The Minister cocked his head and nodded. Continuing in French, "I am the Foreign Minister to Her highness Tzarista Alexandra Ekaterina, Sergey Borislav. I come, bearing the gifts held with in the holds of these three Cruisers as a sign of friendship and good will. If possible, I do wish to speak to your leaders in order to secure proper lines of Diplomacy."

The captain then turned to one of his subordinates and give him a short order in Japanese. The soldier quickly ran off towards the nearest signal station so that way HQ in Taihoku would be informed of the sudden arrival and could prepare accordingly.

The samurai then turned his gaze back to the foreigners and continued in clipped French.
"Alright. Follow me. You will be escorted to the capital of Taiwan to meet."

[Togeria]

Zi Dynasty

---

The Korean peninsula was a strategic point within the sphere of East Asia, the northern landmass connecting the mainland to the Pacific and vice-versa. To any seaborne power is served as the gateway to China and the riches that land had to offer and to the mainland it stood as a point in which hegemony could be established over the numerous islands and islets across the seas. Enough history has been collected of envious powers who sooner rob this land of its last blade of grass than see any benefit be made to the people who live within these hills.

Though the Zi were foreign it was only by faith, they were still Hanminjok and from this landmass they would control both land and sea simultaneously. Admiral Yi and General Eulji both great men and great examples. Now were in a time of growth and time was delicate, though separate China was still strong and though Japan always watched towards the Mainland with suspicion. However both for now tended to their own affairs and in this time Zi Seoul-Dae would begin the integration of the southern provinces of Jeolla and Gyeongsang. Negotiations would see that both provinces would be integrated within 2yrs time and allow for special representation within the Imperial Council.

In the meanwhile a serious of diplomatic ventures would be sent forth to the Island of Japan, utilizing the port at Tsushima the Zi would begin their long overdue process of seeking legitimacy abroad. The vessels were traditional Korean Junks and made highly decorate. It was debated to send a military ship however Seoul-Dae would forbae this maneuver. "Our cousins to the East are a paranoid and cautious folk, the sons of grandfathers long dead will still carry a grudge against any ill will." With this precaution the small task fleet of 4 four Junks would arrive at the port. A letter would be presented upon their docking, it would ask for audience with the residing Daimyo,"Konnichiwa, Onamae wa Kimu Namu-Iru. Daimyo to Hanashite desu ka? (Hello, I am Kim Nam-il. May I speak to the Daimyo?).

---

The separated state of China made interaction a difficult matter, the birth of two republics split Imperial interest on which party to support. The majority though viewing the Republic of China as a rival to their efforts to grow hegemony who compared to the Shen who seemed motivated by greed. They cast themselves as righteous, yet seek to take what had been earned by the ancestors. Two task fleets of three Junks would be sailed to the capital of Nanjing and port of Hong Kong to seek audience with both respective parties.

Whichever faction they sought three things in any deal to theorized or put forth between the respective parties: Equal status in trade and relation between Korea and China, Open and Free trade between Korea and China, Respect of territory and realm between Korea and China.

[The Akarou Shogunate]

The strangers arriving in Tsushima would be fast-tracked to see the local daimyo. In truth, Tsushima was actually a part of the wider Kyūshū domain controlled by the Arima clan and their vassals. The Arima were one of the first to join forces with the Akarō in their initial rise, and so are one of the "Great Clans" so to speak, the lords of Kyūshū and Tsushima. Traditionally their capital had been on the mainland, however the previous head of the clan had become quite fond of the island and thus moved the Arima leadership there.

The current master of Kyūshū is Arima Ichirō, and he was awaiting their arrival. He was a young man, only nineteen years old, and he had only been head of the Arima for just over two years. He was, however, energetic, and rather unusual among his countrymen as a more open minded and accepting sort of man. As such, he was very well suited to be the ruler of one of Japan's few ports open to the outside world.

[Acerbez]

菊花在花园里
Chrysanthemum flowers in the garden.

The residence of Dai Eyu was nothing remarkable in itself. Situated between both the commerce district and states governance district its most appealing quality was its convenience to be in reach of both for the figurehead of the SAR. The rising sun brought with it fair weather and a favorable ambiance that Dai Eyu welcomed wholeheartedly. It did well to mask the sense of urgency and overall uneasiness the revolution and the inevitable civil war were exhuming. Today was certainly a day that almost forced the father to forget his duty to the people, the father that yearned to spend time with his young daughter, Mei Kai Tze. Instead of the typical routine of having a trusted tutor instruct her, Dai Eyu instead wished to be the one to sit and educate.

It was paramount that critical thinking and in depth discussion not be foreign concepts to the young one. Literacy and familiarity with Chinese characters was first, then history and the articles of Sun Tzu, lastly he would walk the small garden and inquire her personal sentiments of philosophy and way of life. As they discussed, it was apparent that she was indeed a child and saw the best in the world and its people but at the same time pragmatism would not be deaf, blind, or dumb. Proud, he was. As a father, as a comrade and friend, as a statesmen, but most importantly, as a man... a Chinese man.

The small garden of various brush and chrysanthemum was amorous if one were to stare at it long enough... today however, Dai Eyu would only glance intentionally for a moment when a uniformed soldier shouted from the front gate, politely but shouting nonetheless to the house keeper that it was urgent he deliver his message to the Chairman. Dai Eyu could make nothing of tirade outside his gate other than the word "Menggu"...

Mongolia.

---

Meanwhile in Jiuzhaiguo...
As expected, not only was the legendary reputation still largely fresh in the minds of the Chinese people, but the imaginative description of the people in the far north was justified by the Khan's posture and demeanor. Word spread of the stone faces of cavalry marching the streets in unison, rumor of the "generals" stature and aura of command... Most importantly and less amicable was the rumor that war was probable. The convents and commissions of the various associations were almost terrified that an infant system of operations could be done away with ease should one of the main regions be attacked by fresh combatants. People debated, commoner and statesman, educated or dull, everyone was forming opinions and suddenly became experts on foreign relations and military strategy. Sichuan spread word to Hunan, Hunan to Yunnan, until it reached Guangdong. Generals of every stationed army began flurrying letters to the chairman and proclaim their zealousness to intervene if the Capital was threatened.

Of most, appearance played a vicious trickster. Tai En Seng was one of few who assured the chairman that a force of this size was more than capable of looting its way through Gansu and had no reason other than foreign relations to traverse the valleys without word or sighting of conflict, pillaging, or raiding- news all too familiar in the days of the dynasty regarding the north of China.

Field General of the 6th SAR Corps,
Name: Tai En Seng
Courtesy name: Yide 益德

The Chinese general observed acutely how this commander was in intently checking the ranks of his men, it was either excessively unnecessary or it was profound showmanship bordering salesman. Granted in these days, a reckless rabble would give hint or clue to its discipline and be unable to maintain such a well posture. As the Mongol leader entered the hall, he would notice that there were only Chinese soldiers standing guard but unarmed and essentially at ease. No door or window remained closed, as ordered by En Seng. For no reason should their guests feel un-accommodated or boxed in as if some ambush were to occur. Mostly for the fact that the field general knew he had until the end of the meal to know whether or not the Mongols meant ill as no man would turn away a seated and properly prepared meal and if anyone were to die here today, they would die happily with a full stomach.

Tai En Seng was within the Shen for his capacity to drink and maintain, but also his tangent for justice and doing right by those who deserve it. He felt no need to size up the commander nor prod him for recognition because it was very apparent the Mengguoren commanded enough of it. Instead he stood post at the table awaiting approach of the foreign commander and smiled respectfully. When the Commander proceeded to bow it was only natural for Tai En Seng to reciprocate and bow in return. Afterward his hand gestured outwardly towards the seats and politely insisted that the Mengguoren Commander sit first. At which point he inquired as to what the Khan would prefer to drink.

"Also, i would like to suggest the Mengding Ganlu Tea, cultivated from the Meng Shan mountains. It is faintly sweet like dew and at one time a rare treat saved for the emperors of the Tang Dynasty". As he paused and awaited response, he motioned for his retainers to take their seats as well, ensuring he himself was the last to sit. Upon sitting, attendants would fetch whatever the Khan desired for refreshment and Tai En Seng would conclude his introduction by introducing himself.

"It's a pleasure to receive you as a guest, My name is Tai En Seng" he stated in a slow mandarin dialect. His rough voice was calm and he had done so to ensure that his proper name was heard before continuing.

"I am the 6th army Field general of the Shen Arbiter Regime, please call me Yide." The Chinese general proceeded to providing his courtesy name in an effort to indicate his willingness to be cordial and deal with the commander as an equal- a gesture seldom afforded to others without time and persistent presence. Both hands rested on his knees as he sat awaiting his tea. Both retainers subtly shocked the general was drinking tea .

Clacking of dishes filled the room as dishes were brought in and distributed to the tables, the smell of roasted game and boiling herbs.

---

Guangdong, Hong Kong

Guangdong was a tougher nut to crack following the fall of the Dynasty. A large number of ports, namely Guangzho and Hong Kong had largely benefited from the chaos that followed and allowed merchants to consolidate larger power bases than comfortably desired by ammassing wealth and lawlessly cutting corners to earn profit. Fortunately there was no shortage of public discontent of the malicious treatment received at the short end of the stick, the British presence paved the way for corruption and misconduct that would fuel animosity and provide Dai Eyu a means of communication with the people throughout the province- more so providing a ripe pool of fresh recruits more than willing to join the cause.

A once wealthy aristocrat being reprimanded by SAR Hong Kong Guard for unwillingness to liquidate amassed holdings to the people.
Location: Hong Kong, Dated 1899 August
The Shen Consolidation of Guangdong.

Guangdong as a whole, without excluding Hong Kong was subjected to a wide spread call for wealthy land owners and merchants to liquidate their holdings and disperse assets to the Shen Arbiter Regime to be redistributed to the collective organization of commissions/associations/convents for the people to take part in. A radical wave of land reform to revolutionize the countryside south of the Yangtze rvier. Amassed wealth and excess was prime target for the disenfranchised and largely kept from being merely looted by the Grey guard, armed SAR militants who incited the whole ordeal at the behest of Dai Eyu. 5 years ago this occurred, and almost put behind, this would be the new Hong Kong the Zi emmisaires would experience.

Now, tailored and cultivated by the strings of various institutions of the SAR. Hong Kong was just as wealthy and prosperous as it was before as a port city but much more so to the point that un-employment and poverty were being actively targeted for eradication. Education was a prime target for the city planners of the isle and certainly prioritized along with the Shen Mercantile Commission. Hong Kong was subjected to a reform that saw that citizens were granted the right of education for 9 years minimum and the wealth garnered via trade saw that funding was appropriately redirected to that portion of society. Guangzhou would similarly undertake actions appropriately to see that infrastructure and facilities were being created at the institutional level to not only smoothen everyday life but make good on the regime's promises. Dai Eyu wished to ensure that coordination was always priority and deter the element of alienation among classes after such immense reform. Law enforcement from the provincial government was heavily influenced by the SAR thus made arbitration much easier- as cadets were drawn from those holding membership within the party.

Hong Kong 1904

The Zi junks would be graciously afforded free port and anchoring, the decorative style a spectacle for all to enjoy and take in as it was a rare sight for most if not all. The diplomats would be greeted by an entourage of SAR administratives of various commissions and most importantly the head SAR consul, Qinggan Yan. (Simply Yan will suffice). Deeply moved that Hong Kong was destined as the city of Choice Korea, it would do well for him to be amicable and hospitable to their western cousins. Treated and dined while at the same time being provided housing accommodations for their proposed stay at a suitable hotel, Qinggan would listen intently to the proposal.

Requesting 1 weeks time to inform the Chairman of the SAR of the proposal, he ensured a response would be hastily given. And it was, within 3 days Chongqing had provided a response to the Hanguoren.

Greetings,

Regarding respect of territory and claim of sovereign territories, the SAR is more than willing to recognize your stateship to the west and in fact do so informally. Formally we wish nothing but the same in return. As you are aware of the current political tension experienced within the mainland and its overtures, we simply ask that the SAR's claim is respected and recognized throughout the entirety of mainland China. The SAR has vested interests in positive trade relation status but again insist that the integrity and goodwill of such a scenario be seen without fail or doubt, mutually of course. In regards to benign relation status between our two peoples we simply ask that you view us as mutual/equal counterparts and conduct the entirety of your activities with and/or concerning us with the belief of indefinite existence of both our sovereign states to co-exist peacefully and prosperously. We in turn will treat in the same respect and consul the Korean state if there would be any confusion regarding the matter. In Regards to free trade, at the current moment we can comfortably provide the port of Hong Kong (provided Tsushima is open in tandem to SAR commerce) as a sure port of Korean mercantilism and commerce in good faith and hope that our terms are also agreeable- in which further trade operations can be discussed.

Humblest regards,
Chairman of the SAR, Mei Keng Ming

[Togeria]

The strangers arriving in Tsushima would be fast-tracked to see the local daimyo. In truth, Tsushima was actually a part of the wider Kyūshū domain controlled by the Arima clan and their vassals. The Arima were one of the first to join forces with the Akarō in their initial rise, and so are one of the "Great Clans" so to speak, the lords of Kyūshū and Tsushima. Traditionally their capital had been on the mainland, however the previous head of the clan had become quite fond of the island and thus moved the Arima leadership there.

The current master of Kyūshū is Arima Ichirō, and he was awaiting their arrival. He was a young man, only nineteen years old, and he had only been head of the Arima for just over two years. He was, however, energetic, and rather unusual among his countrymen as a more open minded and accepting sort of man. As such, he was very well suited to be the ruler of one of Japan's few ports open to the outside world.

Two diplomats left each vessel along with them was one soldier tasked with guarding both diplomats life's. Their uniform visibly inspired by the growing influences of Western interaction wore dark blue uniforms with tan Puttee's and hand wraps, a equally dark blue cap decorated their heads the stitching of the Imperial Crest (A simple tiger spinning around an equally sized hare). They carried only a pistol and a sword inspired by their Joseon adversaries and made smaller to arm length.

A further two compatriots, Jamae (Sisters) were unarmed and to act as on duty attendants, medical providers, and witnesses of Sinang. At the head of the group stood a man in his late forties decorated in Jeogori in plain blue and white he followed his host to the Daimyo while leading those from the ships along as well. Upon seeing the Master the man would give a deep bow signalling for the other's to do so as well. "Young Master a thousand years ago our people came to your island in the name of peace, we shared tales and good, and for briefly peace and cooperation was felt. I wish to re-continue this legacy, I ask for your time to discuss how this may be achieved."

---

South-China
The diplomats in much the same fashion as those departing for Tsushima would be deeply moved by the courtesy and respect they were shown throughout their stay, although tied to the Imperial Throne, the Zi promoted a policy of equality between neighbors, a policy modified under the state decree of Yeui (Courtesy) detailing 5 relationships, nicknamed Suchig (Tips in connection to a hand):

1. Relations between Abeoji and Moim [Leader of the Community (Emperor) and the Community (Korea)]

2. Relation between Seed and Ancestor

3. Relations between Man and Neighbor (Community)

4. Relations between Man and Woman

5.Relations between Parent and Seed

Being away from the mainland they instead showed their temporary neighbors equal courtesy and engaged with them when given the opportunity. Not seeking to offend any customs they withheld against talks of the faith unless asked about or questioned on it. When the letter came the lead of the entourage Nam Seoul-Gi a middle aged man decorated in reverse Jeogori of blue on the inside and white on the outside. He further distinguished himself in the past weeks by show casing a habit of standing. His white Jeogori showing his youth it was his responsibility to keep his clothing though plain clean.

As he looked over the letter he thought to himself over the implications. These southerners though as gentle and welcoming as they might be are far, and should the Republicans take offense to their recognition he doubted with how far the Shen would have to travel they could make trek to aid such a ally. However, they did show them respect and they appear open to the idea of progress, and though south just by having connection to this port city, Korean goods could travel all across Southeast Asia and further to India. Coupled with prospects within Japan and commercially the central government of China no longer posses such a burden to their growth. Was he to be the one to come home and speak of such loss opportunity because superstition? Because of fear? No! But he would not be irrational, asking for a translator as he did not posses the ability to write Mandarin, his reply would be simple and full of promise:

Dear Chairman,
I am thankful for the kindness and hospitality your men showed me and my kin as we departed from our vessels, It is with haste I have these words written down. The assurances you have made are promising, the prospect is exciting, but I cannot dishonor this meeting of words and lie and tell that I am at least not somewhat hesitant. The size of Republican holdings creates a burden of distance that if seized upon can create a burden of difficulties for both our people. However, this does not deter any prospect, I ask that in compliment to your unofficial recognition of our domain we extend the same courtesy. We will, cut our sales to the Republicans by a quarter within the midyear to which proceeds that be delivered to you. We will discontinue a number of plans regarding shared economic prospects and instead send such intel to your domain. As you have extended this port of Hong Kong, we open our mainland port of Busan to your peoples.

[Sapientia Et Bellum]

The hall would morph into a single living entity as men discussed and laughed over the lavish meal. Blessings of thanks could likewise be heard throughout the hall as servers and waitresses would be revered as gods themselves. Despite this, the men continued to uphold a strict moral code which shunned the use of foolish language as well as rejected the tyranny of lust. The officers themselves would remain in silence however as the Kahn listened to the words of Seng. In response, the Kahn gently smiled and spoke in a warm yet forceful voice "The tea will be fine.... You do a great honor to your people, Yide... to invite a mongol, no less a Kahn and 2000 of his finest riflemen, into your home is something even I would advise against... but regardless, I thank you for welcoming us." The Kahn would take a sip of his tea "Very good.... now, lets not beat around the bush. I have come not for war but rather I seek the counsel with the one who calls himself sovereign of this land." The Kahn takes another sip of his tea.

[Parcia]

The Minister cocked his head and nodded. Continuing in French, "I am the Foreign Minister to Her highness Tzarista Alexandra Ekaterina, Sergey Borislav. I come, bearing the gifts held with in the holds of these three Cruisers as a sign of friendship and good will. If possible, I do wish to speak to your leaders in order to secure proper lines of Diplomacy."

The captain then turned to one of his subordinates and give him a short order in Japanese. The soldier quickly ran off towards the nearest signal station so that way HQ in Taihoku would be informed of the sudden arrival and could prepare accordingly.

The samurai then turned his gaze back to the foreigners and continued in clipped French.
"Alright. Follow me. You will be escorted to the capital of Taiwan to meet."

The Minister would nod and bark at his men, the marines would fall in to formation behind him, marching in regimental step.

[The Akarou Shogunate]

The strangers arriving in Tsushima would be fast-tracked to see the local daimyo. In truth, Tsushima was actually a part of the wider Kyūshū domain controlled by the Arima clan and their vassals. The Arima were one of the first to join forces with the Akarō in their initial rise, and so are one of the "Great Clans" so to speak, the lords of Kyūshū and Tsushima. Traditionally their capital had been on the mainland, however the previous head of the clan had become quite fond of the island and thus moved the Arima leadership there.

The current master of Kyūshū is Arima Ichirō, and he was awaiting their arrival. He was a young man, only nineteen years old, and he had only been head of the Arima for just over two years. He was, however, energetic, and rather unusual among his countrymen as a more open minded and accepting sort of man. As such, he was very well suited to be the ruler of one of Japan's few ports open to the outside world.

Two diplomats left each vessel along with them was one soldier tasked with guarding both diplomats life's. Their uniform visibly inspired by the growing influences of Western interaction wore dark blue uniforms with tan Puttee's and hand wraps, a equally dark blue cap decorated their heads the stitching of the Imperial Crest (A simple tiger spinning around an equally sized hare). They carried only a pistol and a sword inspired by their Joseon adversaries and made smaller to arm length.

A further two compatriots, Jamae (Sisters) were unarmed and to act as on duty attendants, medical providers, and witnesses of Sinang. At the head of the group stood a man in his late forties decorated in Jeogori in plain blue and white he followed his host to the Daimyo while leading those from the ships along as well. Upon seeing the Master the man would give a deep bow signalling for the other's to do so as well. "Young Master a thousand years ago our people came to your island in the name of peace, we shared tales and good, and for briefly peace and cooperation was felt. I wish to re-continue this legacy, I ask for your time to discuss how this may be achieved."

---

South-China
The diplomats in much the same fashion as those departing for Tsushima would be deeply moved by the courtesy and respect they were shown throughout their stay, although tied to the Imperial Throne, the Zi promoted a policy of equality between neighbors, a policy modified under the state decree of Yeui (Courtesy) detailing 5 relationships, nicknamed Suchig (Tips in connection to a hand):

1. Relations between Abeoji and Moim [Leader of the Community (Emperor) and the Community (Korea)]

2. Relation between Seed and Ancestor

3. Relations between Man and Neighbor (Community)

4. Relations between Man and Woman

5.Relations between Parent and Seed

Being away from the mainland they instead showed their temporary neighbors equal courtesy and engaged with them when given the opportunity. Not seeking to offend any customs they withheld against talks of the faith unless asked about or questioned on it. When the letter came the lead of the entourage Nam Seoul-Gi a middle aged man decorated in reverse Jeogori of blue on the inside and white on the outside. He further distinguished himself in the past weeks by show casing a habit of standing. His white Jeogori showing his youth it was his responsibility to keep his clothing though plain clean.

As he looked over the letter he thought to himself over the implications. These southerners though as gentle and welcoming as they might be are far, and should the Republicans take offense to their recognition he doubted with how far the Shen would have to travel they could make trek to aid such a ally. However, they did show them respect and they appear open to the idea of progress, and though south just by having connection to this port city, Korean goods could travel all across Southeast Asia and further to India. Coupled with prospects within Japan and commercially the central government of China no longer posses such a burden to their growth. Was he to be the one to come home and speak of such loss opportunity because superstition? Because of fear? No! But he would not be irrational, asking for a translator as he did not posses the ability to write Mandarin, his reply would be simple and full of promise:

Dear Chairman,
I am thankful for the kindness and hospitality your men showed me and my kin as we departed from our vessels, It is with haste I have these words written down. The assurances you have made are promising, the prospect is exciting, but I cannot dishonor this meeting of words and lie and tell that I am at least not somewhat hesitant. The size of Republican holdings creates a burden of distance that if seized upon can create a burden of difficulties for both our people. However, this does not deter any prospect, I ask that in compliment to your unofficial recognition of our domain we extend the same courtesy. We will, cut our sales to the Republicans by a quarter within the midyear to which proceeds that be delivered to you. We will discontinue a number of plans regarding shared economic prospects and instead send such intel to your domain. As you have extended this port of Hong Kong, we open our mainland port of Busan to your peoples.

The lord of the Arima simply nodded to the strangers, giving them a short, but not unkind, reply.
"I am willing to listen to what you would propose. It is, of course, my duty to ensure the prosperity and mutual cooperation between my realm and those who seek to due business with the people of it, so I shall hear you out."

The captain then turned to one of his subordinates and give him a short order in Japanese. The soldier quickly ran off towards the nearest signal station so that way HQ in Taihoku would be informed of the sudden arrival and could prepare accordingly.

The samurai then turned his gaze back to the foreigners and continued in clipped French.
"Alright. Follow me. You will be escorted to the capital of Taiwan to meet."

The Minister would nod and bark at his men, the marines would fall in to formation behind him, marching in regimental step.

Word of their arrival was wired to headquarters in Taihoku, and the foreigners were swiftly escorted through the city to the rail station, hardly giving them much time to examine their surroundings at all. It was of utmost importance that they be delivered to the leadership there as soon as possible, as it was completely unheard of for royalty from overseas to show up completely unannounced, or really for them to show up at all for that matter. In the face of such unprecedented circumstances, the issue should be passed up the ladder as quickly as possible.

[Togeria]

The older man nodded to young lord and kept his reply short though comprehensive,"Young Master, our request are simple and open to negotiation:
We ask that your realm be opened for our vessels to trade and navigate around, without being subject to unlawful seizure, search, and/or unwarranted suspicion. We in turn shall only allow for vessels determined to be used for the purposes of commerce, trade, Imperial movement, and peaceful interaction shall be allowed through. No military vessels will be allowed and prohibited from sailing into your domain.

I wish for this to be the first step in what can be a lasting and growing peace and I am ready to answer any request for further clarification and to negotiate any points you may have."

[Acerbez]

Chinchiku Port

Feng Xian stepped off the rickety vessel with his cargo in tow and couldn't help but feel the strong resemblance to Fujian, his hometown, but also the underlying agitation that was foreign influence. He saw his people in the eyes and faces of the locals but couldn't help but take notice the encroaching presence of Japanese lingo spoken so vehemontly, Japanese writing pushing itself onto the lots and buildings, and at the very worst- the Akaro overseer soldiers just observing that everything is "peaceful". Feng Xian was not hot blooded because of ethnocentrism or some simple racial tenacity... It struck his soul to see that the thousands of years of culture and identity can slowly wither and die when no direction of guidance and means of protection can spiral such things out of control. In just some generations this was occurring and history books fresh with the shogunate's strangle hold on the fore front of the mainland. Literally ganking the collar of the Chinese identity in a revelation that the was obvious to him, but seemed as a secondary priority to the northern Tongmenhui. This he could not abide...

As a whirlpool of thoughts and animosity twirled in his mind, what Feng Xian regarded as an ancestral tugging to see and do right by the bloodlines that lived and died on Chinese soil, he paused...

In front of him a Russian courtesan and group stood before a platoon speaking... French? in actuality Feng Xian was not under the presumption that these were Russians but that they were indeed french- a short sight of things that would prove to tilt his decision ever so slightly that the repercussions of a distant foreign power such as them being enraged would have little immediate affect in the geo political region but enough to damage the international reputation of the Shogunate.

Feng Xian decided then and there that this was the heavens pointing to him, what needed to be done. Positioning himself to at the very least catch onto the proposed trajectory of the diplomats, their status would make a simple following as they, believe it or not did not look Asian at the very least, could be located via word of mouth simply by asking "have you seen the white devils"? A provocative but well known identity given to the colonial powers that sought to carve up China from the previous dynasty.

Feng Xian would find himself headed to the train station in haste to arrive before the foreign entourage. Money being not an object as he had left without any notes and only carried a single gold bar in case of emergency and an amicable amount of silver coin. Using his own Dialect, hokkien, to hail a rickshaw, his belongings and all would be toted to the station.

The bustling of the foreign quarter made for individual travel much quicker than that of an entourage bearing gifts. In deed the formality of both parties showing discipline and orderliness, whether it was marching or not, proved Feng Xian's assumptions to hold truth.

He perched himself and awaited the foreign group. Ideally he had hoped that he could board together on the same cart as the diplomats and their security, but this seemed not only impossible with Akaro police escorting them, but the sheer amount people within and a part of both parties meant that the cart would be prohibited for civilian entry but fortunately full...

So Feng Xian found himself avoiding the group at their arrival and instead rushed to board the cart ahead and if full, 2 carts would suffice. There he patiently sat for the trains departure, anxiety barely hidden by his feint smile. If it weren't for his sheer determination and will, if he were a weaker man, his facade surely would fall. Instead he plotted and observed his means of escape. In which there were None, Save for a treacherous leap from a moving cart.

In the cart ahead of the foreigners and their escorts, Feng Xian looked to a group of locals aboard, approaching them with light legs stricken with a fear of the unknown and a quirky but polite smile.

In hokkien the words unfurled

"Hello, xiangsheng he furen. I am called Xianxian, I am newly professed photographer, and I wish to make a name for myself. Writing is my passion and I wish to apply to a prominent firm here in Taiwan.". He spoke firmly but intently aimed to touch the fidelity and comraderie that was inherently Han culture." I only hope that you will allow me this opportunity to take a photo of our people, so that I may share the prosperity of the times and how happy we are here in this beautiful country". Feng Xian bowing slightly addressing those in front of him, he couldn't help that his voice displayed and inflected nervousness but played on the hope that his request and lowly position would overtake any doubts or suspicions.

"Please, allow me the priviledge" he ended with, both hands clasped together.

[The Akarou Shogunate]

Chinchiku Port

Feng Xian stepped off the rickety vessel with his cargo in tow and couldn't help but feel the strong resemblance to Fujian, his hometown, but also the underlying agitation that was foreign influence. He saw his people in the eyes and faces of the locals but couldn't help but take notice the encroaching presence of Japanese lingo spoken so vehemontly, Japanese writing pushing itself onto the lots and buildings, and at the very worst- the Akaro overseer soldiers just observing that everything is "peaceful". Feng Xian was not hot blooded because of ethnocentrism or some simple racial tenacity... It struck his soul to see that the thousands of years of culture and identity can slowly wither and die when no direction of guidance and means of protection can spiral such things out of control. In just some generations this was occurring and history books fresh with the shogunate's strangle hold on the fore front of the mainland. Literally ganking the collar of the Chinese identity in a revelation that the was obvious to him, but seemed as a secondary priority to the northern Tongmenhui. This he could not abide...

As a whirlpool of thoughts and animosity twirled in his mind, what Feng Xian regarded as an ancestral tugging to see and do right by the bloodlines that lived and died on Chinese soil, he paused...

In front of him a Russian courtesan and group stood before a platoon speaking... French? in actuality Feng Xian was not under the presumption that these were Russians but that they were indeed french- a short sight of things that would prove to tilt his decision ever so slightly that the repercussions of a distant foreign power such as them being enraged would have little immediate affect in the geo political region but enough to damage the international reputation of the Shogunate.

Feng Xian decided then and there that this was the heavens pointing to him, what needed to be done. Positioning himself to at the very least catch onto the proposed trajectory of the diplomats, their status would make a simple following as they, believe it or not did not look Asian at the very least, could be located via word of mouth simply by asking "have you seen the white devils"? A provocative but well known identity given to the colonial powers that sought to carve up China from the previous dynasty.

Feng Xian would find himself headed to the train station in haste to arrive before the foreign entourage. Money being not an object as he had left without any notes and only carried a single gold bar in case of emergency and an amicable amount of silver coin. Using his own Dialect, hokkien, to hail a rickshaw, his belongings and all would be toted to the station.

The bustling of the foreign quarter made for individual travel much quicker than that of an entourage bearing gifts. In deed the formality of both parties showing discipline and orderliness, whether it was marching or not, proved Feng Xian's assumptions to hold truth.

He perched himself and awaited the foreign group. Ideally he had hoped that he could board together on the same cart as the diplomats and their security, but this seemed not only impossible with Akaro police escorting them, but the sheer amount people within and a part of both parties meant that the cart would be prohibited for civilian entry but fortunately full...

So Feng Xian found himself avoiding the group at their arrival and instead rushed to board the cart ahead and if full, 2 carts would suffice. There he patiently sat for the trains departure, anxiety barely hidden by his feint smile. If it weren't for his sheer determination and will, if he were a weaker man, his facade surely would fall. Instead he plotted and observed his means of escape. In which there were None, Save for a treacherous leap from a moving cart.

In the cart ahead of the foreigners and their escorts, Feng Xian looked to a group of locals aboard, approaching them with light legs stricken with a fear of the unknown and a quirky but polite smile.

In hokkien the words unfurled

"Hello, xiangsheng he furen. I am called Xianxian, I am newly professed photographer, and I wish to make a name for myself. Writing is my passion and I wish to apply to a prominent firm here in Taiwan.". He spoke firmly but intently aimed to touch the fidelity and comraderie that was inherently Han culture." I only hope that you will allow me this opportunity to take a photo of our people, so that I may share the prosperity of the times and how happy we are here in this beautiful country". Feng Xian bowing slightly addressing those in front of him, he couldn't help that his voice displayed and inflected nervousness but played on the hope that his request and lowly position would overtake any doubts or suspicions.

"Please" he ended with, both hands clasped together.

The newcomer would be regarded somewhat awkwardly at first, but not with hostility. There was a bit of muttering and exchanging of looks before a scruffy man in his early forties spoke up. He looked, based on his attire, to be some sort of merchant or artisan. In a tone that was not unkind, but perhaps a bit weary, he replied to the stranger, shifting his gaze between the man and his compatriots as he spoke.
"Sure, why not? What's the harm?"

The older man nodded to young lord and kept his reply short though comprehensive,"Young Master, our request are simple and open to negotiation:
We ask that your realm be opened for our vessels to trade and navigate around, without being subject to unlawful seizure, search, and/or unwarranted suspicion. We in turn shall only allow for vessels determined to be used for the purposes of commerce, trade, Imperial movement, and peaceful interaction shall be allowed through. No military vessels will be allowed and prohibited from sailing into your domain.

I wish for this to be the first step in what can be a lasting and growing peace and I am ready to answer any request for further clarification and to negotiate any points you may have."

"Your requests are fair and reasonable, and I am inclined to accede to them. Yet, this is not a decision I can make lightly. The laws set down by my liege forbid me from allowing foreign entrance into the realm beyond the port city. If I were to permit further travel, I would risk his ire, and though I am but the newly ascended lord of this domain, the Shogun's temper is legendary and his stance against the influence of outsiders equally fierce.

Even so, I may be willing to accept that, yet I must be convinced that the reward of disregarding the laws of the realm in this regard outweighs the risks, and if so, to what extent? If it should be sufficient enough, I may be able to bend the rules due to the gains of the arrangement and move domains on the fence to support me. If there is enough support, the Shogun may back down this time and our cooperation may continue unhindered. I need to know, though, what can you do for us? Can I be guaranteed that this will be profitable enough to be worth facing my lord's censure?"