1912-1990 Era War IC (Semi-Closed)

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

Vice Admiral Hanroku Saito of the Nihonese 2nd Fleet looked out upon Shishiri from aboard his flagship the Amagi Class Battle Cruiser. They were nearing the Southern area of the island which was under slight occupation, but under Carriebean control. The fleet was to drop off some coastal artillery guns to the Carriebean and provide supplies, money, ammo, Type 22 Murata Rifles and some Type 30 Rifles to the Carriebean government. There was already a convoy of Imperial Nihonese Army trucks and armored cars ready to transport the money to the capital, protecting it from falling into the wrong hands.


Amagi Class Battle Cruiser

An aide ran into the room and handed the Vice Admiral a piece of paper. Examining it, he gasped to find that Carriebean ships had just engaged the Rusklandr Navy. That would mean they would have to hurry or risk confrontation with the Rusklandr Navy which could ultimately turn ugly if either side made a single mistake or accident.

Quickly the transport ships docked with the rest of the fleet keeping guard, patrolling the sea. Men scrambled to unload the ships of their cargo taking a few hours before the fleet got word that the Carriebean fleet had just disengaged and was retreating to the port the 2nd Fleet was currently at. The Vice Admiral shouted "Now we have unloaded all the transports for this port, we must get out of here quickly before this place turns to shit!"

Sailors scrambled to get the fleet moving once again towards the part of annexed Shishiri. The coastal artillery that had been given to the Carriebean was quickly set up by Nihonese ground troops before withdrawing to avoid the possible bombardment of the port. The convoy escorting the money quickly set off, guards at ready with Type 11 Light Machine Guns and their Type 38 or Type 44 rifles in hand.

[Ruskland-Preuben]

Battle of Shishiri, Final Hours/Bombardment

Rusklandr Navy War Ensign

The Group Admiral, Dmitar II, placed his gaze on his watch. "3:48" it told him. It was nearing dawn now, and they had to conclude this battle as quickly as possible before the sun arrived, and with a decisive victory over the Carriebeanian Navy, no more, no less. It was dawning on them that it might be the case, as what used to be around 120 enemy ships (and with a heavier composition of dreadnought and pre-dreadnought battleships) had been cut down to around, eh, 50 most likely. They had mostly destroyed destroyers, heavy destroyers (all of them), and torpedo boats. Damage has been spotted to the enemy's battleships, and 1 or 2 might have been sunk, they weren't spotted sinking though. Parts of the battle grew so bright due to raging fires that the planes of the Hawk were able to just sit back and relax as the enemy's ships did their work for them. As for their own casualties, they were now at 122 ships. Most of their casualties in the battle were 5 of their destroyers, 5 of their cruisers, and their Battlecruiser, the Flag-Bearer, newest ship of her class, the Kongo. Eleven ships in total, 5 of them had moderate casualties, 5 had regular amounts of dead folks, and one destroyer was utterly obliterated by both dreadnought fire and torpedo bombing, no survivors from that poor ship. As for damage, one of the transports had been hit, killing 436 out of the 1000 men on board. There was also Moderate damage to the bow of the dreadnought, Dominator, and damage to the stern of the super-dreadnought, Leviathan. All in all, acceptable losses, they could still support a landing on Carriebean.

They were about to begin the clean-up process when dawn began to break, and with it, a section of the Carriebean navy charging them, and against the sun? "Are- Are they suicidal?" He asked his men, and they shrugged back in response, "Ah, whatever, prepare to fire on them!". And so the 10 battleships that they had with them trained their guns upon the charging enemy ships, and at a moments notice, would fire. Finally, signals were raised and the bombardment of the enemy, leftover destroyers also began to shoot at them as well. They then began firing back, scoring hits on the Unbowed, the Monstrous, the Eternal Crusader, and the Warhall. Eventually the charge was halted, and all four ships sank down to the depths after being bombarded by a combination of torpedo and ship fire, at the cost of another four destroyers. Now that the, enemy... Was nowhere to be seen... "Okay, where are they!" Dmitar shouted, and one of the sailors pointed him to the enemy that was speeding away from them, towards their ports. "Well, what are you all waiting for?" He once more shouted, then he barked orders, "Tell all ships to go into full pursuit! Full speed ahead!". They did as they were told dutifully, and each and every ship went at their fastest speeds as to catch up with the fleeing Carriebeanian naval remnants.

And so the chase began, with the Carriebeanian navy fleeing to port, and the Rusklandr navy hot on their trail. Both parties arrived at their destination at their respective times, "6:23" Dmitar's watch told him, and so a bombardment plan was prepared. The enemy was there, and so were the Japanese! "It appears that they have been supplying the enemy, sir." His aide explained to him, and then made a suggestion, "Excuse me sir, but doesn't this make them an enemy as well? Should we fire on them sir?". "God, Fucking, DAMN! NO JANSEN!" Practically howling at the man, he shouted some more, "IF WE FIRED AT THEM, WE RISK A WAR WITH NOT JUST NIHON, BUT ALSO THE IA, AND THE WL, WHICH COMBINED, IS THE WHOLE FUCKING WORLD!". A meek "sorry sir" and a whimper was all he got in response, good, it got through his thick skull, he'll have to wait and see if it would stick around. But more pressing matters were at hand, indeed, the Japanese supplying the Carriebean with what was most likely guns and artillery was worrying, but the fact that they left rapidly once they were done, which implied that they had no desire to start a conflict, eased most of his worry. "Alright men, position all ships for full broadside," he ordered, this time, not shouting, "Once all Japanese have left, we level this fucking port.".

And so they waited. They also sent a destroyer to edge close to the port and declare as loudly as possible to all Japanese military elements in the area to leave as quickly as possible. And when it seemed like all had left, all hell broke loose as the horizon, when looking at the Rusklandr fleet, suddenly had bright orange clouds that dissipated into gray. And a moment later, the tell-tale signs of a massive bombardment. A few more trepidatious moments passed, then the port lit up like a hundred fireworks displays on New Years.

---

On the Telly With A Jap

OFFICIAL STATEMENT BY THE RUSKLANDR DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS TO THE NIHONESE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Public

Your wishes for diplomatic talks have been granted, and we shall meet up in the provincial capital of your occupied section of Shishiri. As for these rules that you plan on putting down, we shall address them one by one. For your first rule of limited amount of forces, this we cannot do, in terms of naval forces that is, we can decrease men in the new bases as necessary. As for your request for a demilitarized zone, this we can accept. We suggest a 5km DMZ around our new acquisitions. And for your third request, that Cthulhism stays within Carriebean, this will do for now, and we will halt missions to IA countries until a time when such things are acceptable. As for the fourth request, we shall see if it is acceptable.

We hope that peace may be achieved soon.

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

Watching from his flagship the Amagi Class Battle Cruiser, Vice Admiral Hanroku Saito of the Nihonese 2nd Fleet looked through his binoculars watching the Rusklandrs frie upon the Carriebean port right after the Nihonese ground troops had withdrawn. Their fleet was moving away at full speed to avoid conflict and to arrive at the nearest Nihonese annexed port. He sighed. His men had tried to unload the guns and artillery as fast as they could, and many probably made it our of the port, but some artillery was left in their crates meaning they would most likely be destroyed or not even used. Some had been mounted and it would help the Carriebeans out a bit hopefully. It would still be a waste of millions of yen. The circumstances for the arrival of the shipment had just not been in his favor. At the very least, the artillery guns meant for the Nihonese defenses could be mounted safely.


Nihonese Fleet

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
An invitation to the world has been sent to attend the wedding of Colonel in the Army and Captain in the Navy Regent Crown Prince Michinomiya Hirohito, heir to the Chrysanthemum Throne to Princess Nagako Kuni daughter of Field Marshall Prince Kuniyoshi Kuni. Their holy ceremony will take place in 26 January 1924.



Crown Prince Hirohito

INVITATION TO ALL FROM EMPIRE OF NIHON

The holy Nihonese Emperor Taruhito Koshimura invites you to the Nihonese Imperial Palace located in the Capital of Nihon; Gokyo. You are welcome to come and join us on this holy day to wed his holiness Regent Crown Prince Michinomiya Hirohito of the Chrysanthemum Throne and Princess Nagako Kuni. This ball will provide your countries' representatives a chance to speak with the future Emperor and strengthen relations between our countries.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO RUSKLANDR DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS FROM THE NIHONESE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Public

The Empire of Nihon is grateful for your compliance and your restraint. We are happy that we shall meet in our provincial capital of the Nihonese occupied section of Shishiri. We shall see you there.

We are hopeful peace can be restored.

The talks were being arranged with plenty of security to protect the diplomats. The Rusklandrs would have to land and then be greeted and brought ashore. Once that was done then they would be brought to the provincial capital and talks would finally begin. The Carriebeans would have to be invited too.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO CARRIEBEANIAN OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS FROM THE NIHONESE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Public

The Empire of Nihon has started talks with Ruskland. You are invited to send a diplomat to speak on your behalf. Thank you for your cooperation. We shall try to bargain for something we can all agree on.

May peace be restored.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO INDIANUM ALLIANCE FROM THE NIHONESE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Public

The Empire of Nihon has started talks with Ruskland. You are invited to send a diplomat to speak on your behalf. Otherwise the Nihonese diplomats can speak for you.

May peace be restored.

[Breyburg]

Stegas, Breyburg
December 3rd, 1924

A New Leader, A New Member

The newly elected president of the Socialist Allied States of Breyburg, Martin Harvey, has moved into his presidential office in Stegas, Breyburg. Martin Harvey won the election by a land slide, even the previous president who was expected to win couldn’t oppose him. Martin Harvey successes president Ashton Fischer, a Social Democrat, who succeeded the great president Alfred Woods, a member of the Sociocratic Party. Martin Harvey, a Democratic Socialist, hails from the state of Garduva, in the north of Breyburg. He is 78 years old, the second oldest in Breyburgian history.


President Martin Harvey.


President Ashton Fischer.


President Alfred Woods.

The election system of the SASB goes like this; citizens from each of the 32 districts (four per state) are polled and whichever candidate turns up in the majority, wins that district. For a candidate to win the election, they need to win the majority.

There are six major parties within the SASB; the Democratic Socialist Party (DSP), the Social Democracy Party (SDP), the Liberal Socialism Party (LSP), the Eco-Socialism Party (ESP), the Sociocratic Party (SP), and the Communist Party (CP).

Martin Harvey won 18 of the 32 districts, Ashton Fischer (SDP) won 4 of the districts, Clifton Thornton (ESP) won 2 of the districts, Jack Landry (SP) won 2 of the districts, Harry Adams (LSP) won 2 of the districts, Vincent Glover (CP) won 2 of the districts.



_________________________________________________________________________________________

Today, he accepts the nation of Iron Guard Hoosier into the Indianum Alliance. Martin Harvey is slightly unsure of the nation of Iron Guard Hoosier and it’s leader, Marshal Brandon Jones, but is willing to accept any nation that seeks to join the IA. The Indianum Alliance has reached 5 members, back to its original number of members before the fall of the Overculture Federation.

“As my first action I am to accept our neighbor, the nation of Iron Guard Hoosier into the Indianum Alliance. The IA has grown into a powerful alliance able to rival the greater nations of the world. We’re rising up through the ranks of the world. But we can only go farther by accepting new nations into this alliance.

The IA has been around for 12 whole years, and it has proven itself time and time again, and I wish to prove it time and time in the future with Iron Guard Hoosier. Iron Guard Hoosier, welcome to the Indianum Alliance.” Martin Harvey stood before a crowd at the presidential suite in central Stegas. Along with him was Marshal Brandon Jones.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

The Socialist Allied States of Breyburg sends Edmund Davis as delegate to the talks in Shishri between Nihon and Ruskland. We wish to advicate for the removal of all Ruskland sponsored and sanctioned Cthulist missions to all nations within the continent of Indianum. Thank you.

President Martin Harvey of the Socialist Allied States of Breyburg

[The Twelve Isles]

As soon as Nihonese Emperor Taruhito Koshimura received word of the arrival of the fleet from the Twelve Isles, he and Prime Minister Naruki Hashimoto were driven to the port to greet their guest. Emperor Taruhito Koshimura figured it would be appropriate to greet their allies to thank them for their assistance. As soon as their cars arrived, he stepped out and looked upon the great port. Already assembled in dress uniform were officers from the Imperial Armed Forces waiting to greet their counterparts. Among them from the Imperial Navy was Navy Minister Admiral Takarabe Takeshi, Marshal-Fleet Admiral Viscount Katō Tomosaburō, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, Admiral Isamu Takeshita, Vice Admiral Saitō Shichigorō, and Rear Admiral Viscount Sano Tsuneha. From the Imperial Army commanders included Minister of Education and War General Baron Sadao Araki, Field Marshal Uehara Yūsaku, General Kawai Misao, and Colonel Hideki Tojo. To the side of them, in rows were 100 total Nihonese marines from the Special Naval Landing Forces. Further in the port, were crowds of Nihonese civilians waving Nihonese and Twelve Isle flags to greet the sailors. Following Nihonese tradition, to show the gratefulness of the Nihonese people, gifts had been brought of expansive bottles of sake (rice wine), special bonsai (mini trees), Asahi and Sapporo beer, tobacco, wrapped mochi (sticky rice cake), Sensu folding fans, bags of traditional ocha (green tea) leaves and tantō knifes for the sailors and their commanders. To bring back home to their families were presents of kimono dresses and sakura (cheery blossom) trees.


(Image)
Nihonese Marines in Formation

(Image)
One of the gifts, a tantō.

Admiral Hargrave arrived in the port with a full honor guard of marines, dressed up in tight, well groomed uniforms. They formed two neat lines off the ship as he came ashore, and as he and his staff walked down the gangway to the docks below he watched as his own Marines and the Nihonese soldiers eyed each other up. They examined each other in a way that was friendly, but also competitive, like two rival sports teams. He gave a wide, toothy and self confidant smile. He brushed his mustache as he approached the delegation, and gave an awkward but well meaning bow as he was approached by the Nihonese as the presented him with the tanto. Straightening back up, he extended his hands to accept the gift, and said in halting Nihonese, "thank you friend of Empire. I will be treasure this always," and smiled again. He knew he spoke the language badly, but he was just proud of himself for being able to speak it at all. Turning to the Emperor and Prime Minister, and in equally halting Nihonese, he said, "Hello, my name is Admiral Hargrave of Imperial Fleet Second. I am grateful for welcoming to beautiful nation of yours. It is honor to be here and to meet." With a gesture to a tall man in a brown uniform next to him, Hargrave continued, saying, "and this is of my college, Brigadier General Meer's, of Imperial Naval Marines."

Meers, standing next to Hargrave and taking on a much more grim persona than Hargave was, gave a sharp, though elegant bow before straightening back up and tucking the gifted tanto under his left arm and extending his right hand. In easy, well practiced Nihonese he said, "It is an honor to meet you here, Emperor Koshimura, Prime Minister Hashimoto. I apologize for my friend here, he is a little strange but a better sailor hasnt ever existed. I promise with the Empire by your side, we will do all we can to help make it clear that Manticores aggressive posturing will not be allowed to continue. And thank you, truly, for your fine gifts. Im sure my wife will love the kimono, and I personally am quite fond of the tanto."

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

Admiral Hargrave arrived in the port with a full honor guard of marines, dressed up in tight, well groomed uniforms. They formed two neat lines off the ship as he came ashore, and as he and his staff walked down the gangway to the docks below he watched as his own Marines and the Nihonese soldiers eyed each other up. They examined each other in a way that was friendly, but also competitive, like two rival sports teams. He gave a wide, toothy and self confidant smile. He brushed his mustache as he approached the delegation, and gave an awkward but well meaning bow as he was approached by the Nihonese as the presented him with the tanto. Straightening back up, he extended his hands to accept the gift, and said in halting Nihonese, "thank you friend of Empire. I will be treasure this always," and smiled again. He knew he spoke the language badly, but he was just proud of himself for being able to speak it at all. Turning to the Emperor and Prime Minister, and in equally halting Nihonese, he said, "Hello, my name is Admiral Hargrave of Imperial Fleet Second. I am grateful for welcoming to beautiful nation of yours. It is honor to be here and to meet." With a gesture to a tall man in a brown uniform next to him, Hargrave continued, saying, "and this is of my college, Brigadier General Meer's, of Imperial Naval Marines."

Meers, standing next to Hargrave and taking on a much more grim persona than Hargave was, gave a sharp, though elegant bow before straightening back up and tucking the gifted tanto under his left arm and extending his right hand. In easy, well practiced Nihonese he said, "It is an honor to meet you here, Emperor Koshimura, Prime Minister Hashimoto. I apologize for my friend here, he is a little strange but a better sailor hasnt ever existed. I promise with the Empire by your side, we will do all we can to help make it clear that Manticores aggressive posturing will not be allowed to continue. And thank you, truly, for your fine gifts. Im sure my wife will love the kimono, and I personally am quite fond of the tanto."

Emperor Koshimura and Prime Minister Hashimoto bowed to Admiral Hargrave and Brigadier General Meer after the two commanders from the Twelve Isles had received their gifts. In perfect English, from which he had learned at the Kyoto Imperial Nihonese Army Academy, Prime Minister Hashimoto replied, "We thank you for you commitment to Nihon and the assistance you have provided. We are forever grateful. These gifts shall be presented to all your soldiers and sailors too as a sign of our gratitude. Our sake is sweet and the our tantos are sharpest, made by hand by swordsmiths who have their talent from learning the art from their ancestors, who made the weapons for our samurai. We offer you a tour of Gokyo and then to the Imperial Nihonese Army General Staff Office and the Imperial Nihonese Navy General Staff Office to speak with the commanders in charge of the defense of Nihon to discuss and trade strategies. We shall together stop the Manticorian aggression in its tracks as soon as it arrives."

Nodding, Emperor Koshimura also said, "Like the diplomats from other countries you and your officers are also invited to the Imperial Palace to attend the ball celebrating the wedding of my son, Regent Crown Prince Hirohito. The wedding will occur on the 26 of January and you should come to speak with your other counterparts from Nihon. For now though, I can offer you attend a traditional tea ceremony with us if you would like, although surely you are tired from your journey to Nihon and should be given time to rest. We are more than happy to provide whatever you need. Just ask. We also have given all your troops diplomatic immunity and they are free to roam around Gokyo should they choose."

[Azenyanistan]

CARE FOR THE PEOPLE

Current National Focus Selected

---

Sergeant Lucas Vega - 3rd Division - Adrilas I Marines
The trip home was uneventful, but the loss of 61 men from the Division - most of the losses suffered by Vega's regiment - weighed like an anchor on the shoulders of the sergeant and on the shoulders of the men of Princess Cristina's Regiment.

To cope with that, Vega had to smoke. This was his fourth cigarette. It was a cheap one that Gaspar made for the people of Rachana. While the Caudilla detested the vice, she had to permit it so that the economy could benefit and the people could have something to distract themselves with.

Vega sighed after he exhaled, a great cloud of white leaving his lips just as he heard steps coming down from the deck. Vegas didn't have to look.

It was Lieutenant Ruth Mata - the woman in charge of his platoon. Ruth was, to Vegas, a brave one. She wasn't a full-blooded Rachanan and she was actually born on the other side of the border to people that the Rachanans did not know or recognize. According to her, Vegas remembered, her parents disappeared and she was adopted by a kind Rachanan cavalry officer.

Right now, Ruth was wounded. Her arm was resting in a sling, with bandages wrapped around the wounded limb. Ruth had sustained three rounds to her arm from a machine gun during the allied efforts against the Carribean.

Vegas stopped smoking - he put out the cigarette by tossing it over the protective barrier and watched it sink in the waters - and welcomed Ruth as she smiled at him and stood by his side. Her good arm rested on the bar as the ship sailed back to Rachana. Ruth told him: "You're a good man, Vegas, but you do not have to toss a good smoke just because I came down from the deck."

"Just trying to be considerate, Ma'am." he just said. The lieutenant glanced at him with a raised brow and a new smile. She then sighed, shrugged it off and stared at nothing. Over the horizon, nothing was there. Over there, the two Marines thought, the rest of our boys and girls are coming home or sailing towards our prize.

Was it really a good prize? A port city for the lives of over 60 men? Vegas frowned at the thought and Ruth noticed. Immediately, she nudged him with her good elbow and told him: "Our friends didn't die in vain - our men, they're in good hands now."

And Vegas wanted to agree. He didn't really believe in Dios. If Dios was really a god, then why couldn't Dios do something about the world? Vegas didn't really know what the hell was going on - he hated reading the newspapers and he didn't have the patience to listen to radios - and he liked it that way. But he still preferred that the world is quite silent. Settled, so to say - that way, the world wouldn't see him fight the way he did in the Carribean.

So, he just nodded and looked away, ashamed of himself suddenly. Ruth sighed again and just took him by the arm and told him: "We will be home later. I want you to tell the men."

And before he could say that he would, Ruth was climbing the steps towards the deck. All Vegas saw was her khakis hugging her fit body just as she vanished into the upper level of the ship.

---

Captain Amaro Fuentes - "Moro" Brigade - IV Brigade - Fourth Brigade - Tenth Division

The Katolik officer - escorted by two of his most faithful Moros - was moving down the corridor until she found the right door. She read the letters - the ones written in the style of Trajan - and realized it was the right one.

"CONFERENCE ROOM - ONE" it read. The Katolik took a deep breath and placed his hand around the knob and turned to his faithful Moros. The Moros nodded to their commander and assumed positions outside the door and began to guard the door just as the commander stepped into the conference room.

It was ordinary. A long table was put in the middle of the room under a set of dim lights. Chairs were arranged around the table and per chair, there was a glass of water with ice. The windows were shielded with thin oak boards and ventilation was provided by a large ceiling fan.

Already waiting in the conference room were three other captains and a colonel and the colonel's aide. Nobody except some of the captains turned in their seats to see the newcomer enter.

Seconds later, the newcomer sat down with the other captains and the colonel - who was reading a book with the title 'Armies Without Fear' - looked up and put his book down on the table and told the newcomer: "Captain Amaro. I see that you are here. Good. Shall we begin?"

Amaro gave the colonel a good nod and the colonel began to speak for four minutes. In the end, the captains were looking at one another - except Amaro. Amaro put his elbows on the table, leaned on them and told the colonel: "Forgive me, Colonel, but what about the men? They will need new captains."

"And I will give them new captains. But if the new captains perform like tontos then I will let you return to your old posts. Whatever the case, whatever happens, I still need captains for this new unit to be born."

"When do you need our answer?" asked a younger captain - one much younger than Amaro.

"After dinner," the colonel told him. The captain shifted in his seat and looked at Amaro. Amaro just shrugged. The colonel added, "And if you are worried about what your general has to say about this, don't bother - the general gave me her mission. So did the colonel of your brigade."

Amaro thought about it for a moment.

To leave the Moro Brigade wouldn't be a great thing to do. His men looked up to him and ever since the battle of the Dunes, their respect for him soared and their fears were mostly put to rest. That and the experience his men gained from that battle wouldn't be easily exploited by a fresh captain if the one who replaced him did less.

He also worried that anyone new might upset his men by being too much like the racistas. His blood boiled when he remembered the last time his men were disrespected.

But the colonel in front of him was a good man. He didn't allow any nonsense during the recent campaign and he was praised by both his men and fellow colonels for what he did to both the refugees and to the enemy. He was a rare thing - a héroe and nobody in the Rachanan ranks ever dared to soil the reputation of a man who deserved that title.

So Amaro swallowed his fears and looked at the colonel straight in the eye and told him, "I accept. I will tell my men as soon as possible."

Surprisingly, in five or so minutes, the other captains said the same thing. A minute later, the meeting was over. The captains left the room with the colonel - except Amaro. Amaro stayed behind for a few moments to wipe the tears from his eyes as he realized that he would have to say goodbye to his men in order to form a unit that may or may not surpass them in bravery.

---

Capital of Rachana - Evening - Residence of the Caudilla

Sarah Ramirez yawned as she left the showering room and walked through the dim corridor until she entered the living room. She was still drying her hair as the Princess - Princess Azeneth - rose to greet the female dictator of the country. The Caudilla shook her head at the younger lady and told her - quietly - to sit down. The Princess did so.

A minute later, Sarah had dried her hair with the extra towel she had taken from the showering room and joined the Princess on the couch. They were resting after spending half an hour inside the steam room. It was something only the two women did together and with nobody else.

Everyone in the residence was either asleep or occupied with their own duties. Servants cooked or cleaned while guards patrolled the perimeter or did their rounds inside the residence itself.

It was one of the many residences that the Caudilla owned but it was the smallest so far.

After resting on the couch, the two women dressed up and went to the dining room. They spoke to each other and ate with each other for another half hour and then returned to the living room. They spoke again but both of them finished their discussion in less than fifteen minutes.

Soon enough, the Princess retired to the guest room while the Caudilla retired to her own room.

It was settled. While the Caudilla would take care of tomorrow's affairs within Rachana, the Princess would prepare for a visit to one of their allies with the Caudilla's aide.

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

Amid rising tensions in the Carriebean region and the pending invasion by Ruskland of formerly occupied Carriebean, a unspecified bomber group with a group of the Teishin Shudan Special Forces Paratroopers is being moved to an air base in Nihonese annexed Shishiri. In a statement made public, Prime Minister Hashimoto announced this act is not as one of aggression, but a display of Nihonese military might. The bomber and special forces are not to strike at the forces of the great Empire of Ruskland but to protect all diplomats, including theirs at the talks to end the conflict. The Prime Minister pointed to the radical extremist groups within Carriebean as another reason to justify the deployment.


Gloster Sparrowhawk from Imperial Nihonese Navy before deployment.

Secret
Forces Deployed:

Teishin Shudan Special Forces Group: 60 Paratroopers, 6 Aclusian-made Ford Tri-Motor Supply/Paratrooper Planes

Bomber Group: 10 Maurice Farman MF.11 Shorthorn Light Bombers, 10 Martin MB-1s, 20 Sopwith Cuckoo Torpedo/ Fighter Bombers
Escort Fighters: 10 Gloster Sparrowhawk Carrier Fighters, 20 Curtiss Model S, 30 Sopwith Camel Fighter Planes

[The Traansval]

Pretoria, Gauteng

The sirens echoed across the city, a shrill sound meant to stand out above the natural noise that a metropolis generates. The hour was late but the citizenry had not yet retired to sleep, and the sounds of the sirens brought them inside at their earliest convenience. The bombings had been a constant threat for weeks now, it seemed that everyday the sound of the engines came to the city followed by the bombs, each time there would be more planes and more destruction. The bombs were indiscriminate, they blew up home and office alike. For the longest time the bombings were unopposed, as nothing like this had been seen before. Bombs had been dropped during the War but they had been smaller and used on the Front, never had bombs been dropped on cities by these behemoths.

Minutes after the sirens began the lights went off. The city had taken to shutting off power in an organized black out so that during the night it would be harder for the bombers to see their targets. Spotlights went up, they had been installed along with High Elevation guns ranging in caliber. The first bomber was spotted and Battery No. 1 fired up to life, firing its twin 20mm Autocannon at the bomber, its Flak shells exploding in the air leaving black clouds. No.1 was soon joined by Batteries No. 2, 3, and 4 on the Eastern side, with four other batteries on the west side soon to join in as the bombers passed over the city. It was the best the city could do, but they rarely stopped the bombers.

While the batteries sometimes scored kills, they were only small dents in the numbers of the bombers, a more sizeable impact was by the Boer Flying Corp. Made up of primarily private civilians and their planes volunteering for service, they were serving elsewhere as Artillery spotters, but in Pretoria the need for AA Defense was so great that the Army had ordered Thirteen of the planes taken off the front and brought back to the capital. They were then installed with Machine Guns and kept at the local Airfield.

Kaptein Rummel, formerly a Dentist, now turned Pilot of the Corp, heard the siren while sitting in the mess with the rest of his comrades. The distant siren was soon followed by the Field's own siren, alerting their men that an airraid was in progress. They jumped out of their seats and ran for the door, it was time for battle. Their planes were already being wheeled out of the hangars and brought out onto the field when they came out, and within minutes they had their flight jackets and gear on.

The feel of the wind on Rummel's face never got old to him. The rush as he felt the wheels lift off of the ground made him feel alive as he fell into rank with the rest of the squadron in a rough V formation. In the distance they could see the spotlights go up, illuminating the sky and giving them an idea of where to go. The first of the bombers appeared from the night sky into a hail of Flak, and the squadron flew towards the now spotted enemy. Rummel pulled up, climbing high into the clouds, and the old story of Icarus came to mind. Rummel pushed down on his stick and appeared from the clouds, barrelling downwards. Below him he could see one of the Aclusian bombers; it was big, fat, and was on a straight course since it had to keep steady in order to drop its bombs.

Rummel smiled and pressed the triggers on his controls. Immediately a stream of lead went after the bomber, tracer rounds showing its arch as it tore into the top of the enemy plane. Rummel banked right to avoid outright smashing into the bomber and turned around until he was looking straight at the enemies tail. He left loose on his guns and watched as his shots hit the engines. They caught fire and sputtered, then the bomber dipped and began to barrel down towards the ground. "One down, Anders can confirm it." Rummel radioed in, looking to his left to see Anders in his yellow tailed fighter buzzing over Rummels own blue tailed plane.

On the ground, civilians made a mad dash for cover. One of the favored places was the Cathedral of Saint Martin, a large and older stone building; it was believed that the building was big enough that Aclusian bombers could see it and avoid it, although that wasn't guarenteed. With local hospitals damaged or overflowing, the Cathedral was becoming a mix between a shelter and an infirmary as the wounded and scared huddled under its arches and behind its thick walls. Edna Rudolf had been a Army nurse during the war and now found her knowledge being put to use here. The church pews had been pushed to the sides and the sick and wounded were laid out on straw mattresses or just bundled blanked as they were attended to by nurses, some doctors, and mostly volunteers. Edna was currently hunched over a young man of maybe 20 who lay flat, uncoinscious from Morphine, with shrapnel wounds in his abdomen and his face. Edna was relieved to see that the shrapnel hadn't punctured his intestines, and his wounds only needed cleaning and dressing. The man was lucky, not many others were. Edna looked up for a moment towards the side of the Cathedral where the dead were. They were laid there, blankets covering them from head to toe, awaiting for the bombing to stop so they could be taken out to the mortuaries. Many were adults, some judging by the size of their bodies were children. All were dead by the hands of the bombs.

Diplomatic Notice Issued by the Department of State of the Provisional Republic of the Traansval
Published in the Pretorian Times

The Provisional Republic of the Traansval, its President, Louis Botha, and its Parliament, hereby condemn the nation of Aclus for its bombing of the Capital, Pretoria. Its bombings are a flagrant violation of international law and have resulted in the deaths of over 2,000 Boer Civilians. The Traansval calls on the International Community to Condemn the Aclusians and calls on the Western League to take action to end the senseless killing that is done for no strategic reason other than to instil fear in an attempt to continue with their illegal and immoral occupation of the Boer Nation.

[Breyburg]

Stegas, Breyburg
December 15th, 1924

The Union Pact

Martin Harvey, President of Breyburg calls upon the rest of the IA to ratify this new pact.

THE SOCIALIST ALLIED STATES OF BREYBURG CALLS FORTH EVERY NATION IN THE INDIANUM ALLIANCE TO SIGN NEW UNION PACT

The Union Pact
The Indianum Alliance

I. Every member nation of the IA has a right to leave the alliance
II. Free trade within the member nations of the IA is permitted, granted minimal inspection upon arrival at borders.
III.If a member nation is under attack, all other member nations must come to that nations aid, let it be sending weapons or food, or declaring war.
IV. If a leader proposes a new deal/legislation the meeting shall be held in their capital. Two IA council meetings will be held a year. Any leader can call upon the alliance for another meeting.
V. The IA declares it’s protection of any and all nations and peoples on the continent of Indianum that cannot fend for themselves. The IA declares that no nation not from Indianum has a right to colonize, intervene or convert any land/peoples in Indianum unless sanctioned by the IA.

“I hope that all member nations of the Indianum Alliance will look over this new pact and see that it is for bringing our nations together. I do not wish to see the nations of Indianum fend for themselves from the powers of Europeia. I wish to see them empowered and lifted up to the international level. We’re not going to take whatever they have for us, and we shall stand together till the end, because a united and allied Indianum is what is good for all of the people.” Martin Harvey said over the national radio.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

The Socialist Allied States of Breyburg is announcing more talks with the government of Carriebean. It realizes that relations with Carriebean have soured since the war, and we do not wish to ruin relations. It declares it shall send food and clean water to the people of Carriebean. It declares that it shall undergo rebuilding programs within the cities and towns of Carriebean, similar to programs within Rannoria.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

To the Indianum Alliance

I will be holding a ball in my capital of Stegas. I hope that you can come to it. If you wish to come, send a message. It will be held on December 31st, to celebrate the end of this year and the beginning of a new year.

President Martin Harvey of the Socialist Allied States

To the nations of the world

I will be holding a ball in my capital of Stegas. I hope that you can come to it. If you wish to come, send a message. It will be held on December 31st, to celebrate the end of this year and the beginning of a new year.

President Martin Harvey of the Socialist Allied States

[Norcourt]

T'was war, once more...

House Elix, Norcourtia, Norcourt
December 15th, 1924

---

The Elixian Council, in response to the ongoing conflict the between Ruskland-Preuben, and Newne-Caribbean, had come to an agreement, to support their ally, Ruskland-Preuben. Due to the unpopularity of the former War against Eodor, Grand Lord Alistair Caneius was reluctant to send in Norcourtian servicemen, into foreign lands, so soon after the last war. In turn, the Elixian Council had once again formed the Elixian Army, citizen soldiers, mostly veterans and professional soldiers willing to serve under the flag of the Elix, and under Norcourtian order.

The 71st Elixian Division, consisting of roughly 14,500 Infantrymen had been taken out of the reserves, and were to be transported via 2 Troop Carriers. These carriers, along with 25 Destroyers, 2 TLS Leviathan Class Dreadnoughts (The TLS Reeves, and the TLS Sigfrop), along with one TLS Vanguard Class Superdreadnought (The TLS Warden) and 2 Air Carriers, would make their way to the Ruskland fleet in southern Shishiri, to assist in further operations.

Surely, this would be worth spending Christmas at Sea for...

a group of rural Norcourtial soldiers, posing for the camera before being shipped off to Shishiri. 1924

[The Manticoran Empire]

Portsmouth Naval Base
Portsmouth
Manticore
3 December 1924

Winter snow fell on Portsmouth Sound, blown around by an icy breeze that was heavy with the scent of the surf. Fleet Admiral Mark Turner, Commanding Officer of Battle Fleet, Royal Manticoran Navy, stood on the deck just outside of the command bridge aboard HMS Jericho. She was new, commissioned barely six months ago, yet she would serve as the flagship of the most ambitious peacetime maneuver of the Battle Fleet. 408 ships, carrying almost 300,000 men and possessing a broadside weight of 376,720 kilograms from 45 of the most modern battleships in the world, all aimed towards an exercise that would last a week, taking place a bare twenty kilometers from Nihon's shores. Considering that even the oldest battleships could reach targets at 21 kilometers, the distance was clearly chosen to irritate the Nihonian government as much as possible.

Admiral Turner let the cold ocean breeze wash over him before turning back to return to the bridge. "General Signal to fleet," he said to his wireless operator. "Raise anchor and set sail."

[The Traansval]

Pretoria, Gauteng

The morning sun had risen, bathing the city in its warm glow, illuminating the damage done by last nights raid. President Botha looked through the window of the Cabinet room, viewing the city and grimacing. He silently cursed the Aclusians, what kind of animals would do something like this. "War had changed, hasn't it?" Botha asked of no one in particular.

Botha silently moved from the window to regain his seat at the table. "What are the reports from the field Mr. Parker?" Botha inquired of the Secretary of War.

Parker coughed to clear his throat and shuffled some papers to make himself look busier, "Well sir the Army of the East is holding its sector currently although it doesn't look like the Warglorians are making any attempt to advance. Our forces in Bloemfontein continue to resist the Warglorians although after these several months of fighting supplies are low. On the bright side it seems that Operation Plunder was a smashing success and we were able to recover the stolen items and gold from the Warglorian Governors residence. Army Group West is running into some more difficulties. It seems that the Aclusians were able to take complete control of the city and now our forces there are entrenched in an attempt to contain them to the city. The Rutenburg Line is currently under assault and all reports show that without reinforcements they will buckle..." Parker said.

"Well we cannot allow that, If Rutenburg falls their push north to the Cape."

"I've already taken measures. The newly recruited 10th Army is currently enroute south to reinforce the Line."

"Good, good. And how are the men doing on the material side?"

"Well now that is a whole other beast sir..." Parker hemmed, "We're able to arm all our men but the mix of various arms and armaments makes supply very difficult. Ammunition seems to be in hard supply as our men are using eleven different calibers, and thats just a total estimate the real number is likely larger. We're having to buy or produce everything from .30 caliber to .22 longer rifle, and there seems to be a large amount of lever actions among the more frontier troops. Frankly its gotten so bad that many take captured enemy rifles so that they can loot ammo off of corpses."

"There may be a slight respite from that." stated the Secretary of the Treasury, "We've begun organizing the prior hodge podge smuggling efforts. Rannorian and Breyburg Arms are being brought in through the Deruhn islands; previously they'd enter through Rutenburg but now we have them going a bit more north. We're also bringing up Manticoran arms through the Cape Republic in the South who have been most favorable to our cause as fellow Boers."

"We've also received offers of aid from a new nation," chimed in the Secretary of State, "It seems that the state of Hoosier is sympathetic and wishes to send us aid."

"The Hoosiers!" Exclaimed the President of the Staatskongres, Mister Rosevelt, "We are currently fighting a war against the Fascists in Wargloria and you suggest we do it by aligning ourselves to a Military Government? This is outrageous!"

"Principles do not win war, Guns do Mister Rosevelt." Responded the Vice President, Mister Martiz, "If the Hoosiers wish to support us we should welcome it with open arms. As one nation oppressed by the Aclusians to another."

"We are in great need of the arms. Please send an instruction to the Hoosiers that we will welcome to aid Mister Secretary." Botha directed.

"Now then," the Secretary of the Treasury started, "About the Budget..."

---

Diplomatic Cable from the President of the Provisional Republic of the Traansval, Louis Botha, for the Diplomatic Office of the Hoosier Nation.

The Traansval will gladly weclome any and all aid which the Hoosier State may provide to aid us in our resistance against the foreign imperialism of the Aclusian nation and the Western League.

---

Kaapstad

Colonel Berkenbosch resented the term "Bushman"; not on pure meaning, for many Boers referred to themselves somewhat in that way, after all the word "Boer" had a similar meaning, but simply on the connotations that the Aclusians had applied. The word was Bastardized in his view, but he kept his mouth shut as the car came to the entrance of the Port City. The Aclusians waved guns in their faces like the good Imperialists they were and the Colonel kept calm.

"We have been sent under Flag of Truce to negotiate a Ceasefire. We come with the full authority of Army Group West and the Provisional Republic." Berkenbosch answered simply to the Aclusian sentry. "Please let us pass Good Sir..."

[Newne Carriebean7]

Das Kapital Region
Presidential Palace
December 15th ,1914

President Marvin Washvelt thrashed the small and rapidly dissolving sugar cube into the hot liquid of coffee with his metallic spoon, tapping impatiently with his foot at the dining room table of the palace. His mistake had been turning off the radio when the Congressional districts were announced, because the results were horrible for his political aspirations of legislation. Many of those closest political allies were shot down at the ballot box by large margins. Close to one hundred and thirty seats had vanished from the political fortunes of the Pirate Party overnight. It was one of the largest political results in recent memory.
As such, he would be picturing the smug look on Kimbal Lenegi, the announced Congressional Majority leader, when he would walk into the room, eating his precious and priceless statues of cheese that adorned his walls next to a bust of Yoho Piratei, the first president of Carriebean.
“Can you read 179 bitch?”
“Can you read four fucking short of a majority? You cannot rule on your own, I sure as hell aint going to be your legislative friend.“
“Washvelt, I do not need a refresher course on the rules and regulations regarding electoral procedure and coalition governments. I know that 183 is the magic number for majority control. I was also able to convince five Independent members to join the coalition government. We’re now one extra of a majority with our allies. This coalition government is going to hammer the ever-loving shit out of you, with our impressive list of reforms.”
Washvelt was then handed a yellowish folded up piece of paper detailing all the reforms pledged by the Patriotic Party:

I.Rearmament of the Carriebeanian Imperial Army with the assistance of foreign Armament Manufacturers to bolster the antiquated hardware currently in use by the Carriebeanian Armies.

II. A reward of 14,000 Sais (2 months income) for any and all mothers who have more than two children per household according to a new census planned of the remaining territories.

III. The Immediate call for a Revanchist spirit to guide the Carriebeanian Foreign Policy Doctrine for the next two years, with primary aims being the reconquest or resettlement of any and all territory previously lost within the last year.

IV. The reorganization of the Carriebeanian Imperial Navy into the Carriebeanian Imperial Merchant Marine as an armed civilian force and the Carriebeanian Imperial Naval Air Wing as the aerial reconnaissance wing to be supplemented with four rigid airships to be built within a year.

V.The restructuring of the economy to allow more free market capitalism in specialized areas of the economy, such as purely in trade and electronic or devices related to the power and combustion systems.

VI. The Mass construction and the reordering of many previously cancelled battleship classes and the preparation for the first Carriebeanian carrier to be converted from the largest ocean liner afloat within Carriebeanian Possession.

VII. The Close nit relationship between the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and the Carriebeanian Government must not be allowed to wither away like a flower in spring, as such, armaments for future crusades and holy jihads will be allocated against the infidels and heretics of the Jesuit Faith.

VIII. Pushing for the Absolute restoration of His Holiness Tyler the I, Protector of Carriebean and Wearer of his most Blessed Crown of the Catholic Faith, to the Throne of Carriebean.

IX. The Mass construction of over a thousand factories, ten modern schools, two modern small farms within Carriebean

X. The Encouragement, via government credit and loans given out to farmers, to settle the various areas suitable for colonization. Farmers shall be allocated enough for a year’s harvest with the expectation of 25% of all earnings being diverted to state coffers as paying back the borrowed loans and lines of government credit.

XI. The Arrest, execution, and subsequent genocide of any and all impure fiends, races and animals within the boarder of glorious Carriebean. This shall be carried out in an orderly and calm manor so as not to raise suspicion. Those who stray from the religious path or are unable to pay back debts shall be the first to be liberated from life. Liberation from Life Campaigns shall involve the youth and elderly alike in patriotic fervor of their country, god and hating the internal enemies.

XII. The Establishment of the Carriebeanian Office of Police Secrecy, or COPS, which shall undertake the arrest and subsequent disappearances of enemies of the state and political enemies which are at odds with the national interests of the holy country’s path to heavenly jihad against our enemies. Experienced Carriebeanian Veterans will be considered for these roles in interrogation and execution of these aforementioned enemies.

XIII. The Legalization of liberally using the death penalty for any and all crimes related to the offense of honor. Such legalization will lead to increased execution rates and boost the number of executioners within the country, lowering unemployment minutely before skyrocketing up because of how many people are being executed having nice jobs.

Washvelt folded the paper back up, putting aside his reading glasses and chuckled at many of the absurd demands.
“The only ones you’ll be able to pass are demands two, nine, and ten. All the other’s are dead on arrival.”
“What makes you so sure my coalition isn’t as fragile as the ones you’ve done, president? If I whip them hard enough and promise them enough bribes, I’ll be able to pass most of these things through.”
“Well at least in my coalitions I had a clear mandate from the people-“
“I do have this mandate; I was able to convince over two and a quarter million people to vote for my policies!”
“But that’s only 30% of the vote, meaning that 70% of the electorate hates your fucking guts.”
“But in that 70%, there’s at least an additional 5% who’s willing to listen, such as those five aforementioned flakey Congressmembers. By the way, have you considered your cabinet?”
“I know I’ll keep Jackson Potters as my Minister of the Army; Joseph Birmingham Harold will retain his position as Minister of Foreign Affairs. However, I will have to find a replacement for my Minister of the Air Force.

Actually, I’ll just dissolve the positions of Minister of the Navy and Air Force, since they’re practically nonexistent, and we can’t afford to pay them anything resembling a salary. Tao Bendouin will retain his position as Minister of Agriculture, Lee Mao Rango will be fired from his position of Minister of Manufacturing, get that headache out of the way.”
“So… No cabinet positions for the largest party in the legislature, my my, ruling like a tyrant already- I’m so proud of you! Now if we could just do away with this pesky thing called the constitution.”
“You say one more word and I will shoot you myself motherfucker! Leave!”
With a curt bow, Lenegi left the room. Soon afterwards, a messenger entered the room, dropping several communications on his desk. Rifling through several of them, he noticed the first was from the Empire of Nihon, informing him of peace talks with the Rusklandr. With a sigh, he tossed the letter to the side, wanting the Foreign Affairs Office to deal with any and all communications between Nihon.

To: Nihonese Ministry of Foreign Affairs
From: Carriebeanian Office of Foreign Affairs (COFA), with the permission of Carriebeanian Emperor Tyler I
The Carriebeanian Government is reciprocal and agreeable to such discussions at this time. We feel that peace shall allow a brief respite to enable us to better prepare ourselves for another conflict, which is the understanding of the majority Congressional party which has approved negotiation between the COFA and NMFA.
As such, we are pleased to inform you that we shall send General of the Empire Kyle Morgan to be our top negotiator in this regard. He is to depart on foot to the Nihonese occupied section of Shishiri for negotiations. We hope that these talks are not a waste of time and money.

CARRIEBEANIAN PRESIDENTIAL CABINET FOR MARVIN WASHVELT ON THIS DAY:

Minister of Army: Jackson Potters Pirate Party
Minister of Foreign Affairs: Joseph Birmingham Harold Pirate Party
Minister of Agriculture: Tao Bendouin Pirate Party
Minister of Manufacturing: Kyle George Doorman Pirate Party
Minister of Education: Paula Elison Monroe Pirate Party

Carriebeanian Imperial Navy
David III Class Battleship Baja California of the Imperial Carriebeanian Navy

Admiral Hood Von Hoth heard the pleasant engine order telegraph sounds of Full Stop from his main platform on the remnants of the damaged bridge. Taking a quick glance to the dockyards, where several dilapidated hulls and shell riddled armored cruisers began to fiddle around with mooring lines to secure the ships to the harbor’s various dockyards and shipyards, he sighed before taking a long puff from his cigarette. Onboard some destroyers which had managed to survive the engagement, the S- class warships began to drop overboard several important documents and large mines into the waters, weighed down by the anchors and chains readily available from the stores kept onboard or stolen from allied warships.
Surrounding the inlet was two massive mountains, filled to the brim with large cannon emplacements and the few Nihonian armaments gifted to them prior to their departure. The Large Carriebeanian armaments included a pair of cancelled O class Battleships, with the four 14-inch main cannons looming down and shooting sheets of flame from their positions at the large line of enemy warships silhouetted whenever they decided to exchange large projectiles for fun.
There were, on the other side of the mountain, the Fortress nicknamed “Old Man’s Junk” for the apparent mismatch of aging armaments with the newer toys from the cancelled battleships of the J series. Two single barreled 15-inch guns went hand in hand with the Three twin turrets of the same caliber, along with the various amounts of hundreds of 17th century cannonry, and the already established old army field guns that were rushed to man the fortifications.
A collection of less powerful mortars and howitzers seemed to fortify the harbor more with the land defenses, though these were manned by elderly women and the mentally disabled. In front of the large mountains were a series of slight bumps in the land which was home to three total carriebeanian infantry division of a 60,000 strong complement, complete with Hotchkiss Revolving Cannons, men armed with the 1855 Colt revolving carbine and the newly shipped Nihonian firearms. Five long rows of trenches were narrowly confined to the short distances between the shoreline and the massive mountains on either one.

Taking a long gaze out at the horizon of enemy ships, he saw them doing some last-minute maneuvering before sheets of flame appeared from both mountains. Apparently the Carriebeanian Shore batteries weren’t just for show, and large quantities of ordnance, most of it either missing or falling short plunging into the seas either surrounding the Rusklandr warships or, in rare cases, landing direct hits on to some support ships and the occasional enemy capital ship. He noticed one of the 15-inch shells landing smack dab on top of one of the warships, with fires spreading out among the ship. Soon the Carriebeanian port and the warship would have something in common. Shooting someone point blank with his trusty sidearm, he would not be the man to die onboard the warship. So he sprinted down the gangway and rushed into the town, continuing to run for a solid while until the shell fire had died down. Turning back to see the fleet ablaze, he only could wonder was the second in command was doing.
Vice Admiral Bismark von Hoth really wanted to strangle Hood for what he had done. Fleeing from the scene of the last stand was a despicable act, though he could empathize with his reasoning behind the decision of fucking off from the targets.
“Fucking Prick. Understandable, but still, the goddamned-“
“Sir! Orders!”
“Don’t just stand at ease! Men, to your posts and make ready all cannons for return fire!”
The Loud roars from the Amanzo class warships seemed to sound similar to the lion like screams from the batteries on the top of either hill, with the faint whiff of a similar caliber of round a foot. The Torpedo boats, utterly useless in port, charged out for one final hurrah against the enemy fleet. Upon delivering their torpedoes at point blank range alongside enemy armored cruisers and destroyers, they would be shredded to bits by furious Rusklandr side armaments and sink with 98% to 100% of the total complement. The remaining armored cruisers opted to not be bottled up in port, and soon the joyous celebration overtook the rest of the fleet, with Bismark von Hoth approving of the order for all ships to sortie from the harbor.

As various tugboats attempted to help the aging ladies of the Sarah I and Fairy Anne from their berths, they would sink with direct hits by Rusklander battery fire aimed at the port, only for any sort of small vessel, including a sailboat attempting to maneuver the older ships out of the way and get them under way. The Carriebeanian forces were determined not to be sunk in port, with ten minutes passing of a catastrophic magazine detonation onboard the Arriba, killing 858 of the 860 onboard. The Sarah I, being the first ship to steam fully outside of the harbor under her own power, matched the salvos being sung by the shore batteries directly at an enemy battleship, managing to score a few lucky hits on top of one of the turrets of the warship.

However, she would be ripped to shreds by four well timed torpedo hits on either side by both a combination of confused carriebeanian torpedo boats and Rusklandr destroyers rushing in for the kill of such a fat target. The propellers would still be turning as the ship capsized rapidly, taking 620 hands down with it, the soul survivor being the captain himself.
The Fairy Anne would be the next vessel to meet a similar fate, being holed seven times with enemy shells while continuing her barrage of Quick Firing 3inch guns. After a brief respite, the Rusklandr gunners opened up with over thirty direct hits from automobile sized projectiles, ripping apart the thin armor onboard the first class of Carriebeanian battleship still afloat. One minute the ship was there, the next the ship disappeared in a massive fireball and column of smoke that stretched skywards for almost two miles. All 621 sailors would be killed onboard.
After losing two pre dreadnoughts. a dreadnought battleship and over twenty-one hundred men in less than ten minutes, Bismarck was alleged to remark on the flagship:
“There’s Always been something wrong with our bloody ships.”
An immediate warm sensation gripped the forward turret, seemingly curving the bow in a bulge like formation before ripping apart several decks and sending the turret hurtling high into the sky. One of the magazines had just gone up in the front of the ship. Seeing as though the bridge had escaped much of the impact of the blast, He realized the explosion was merely a grazing shot and not directly intended to slam into the magazines.
Still, the amount of damage the projectile had done was rather amazing, with the destruction of one of the nine available turrets onboard the ship. The loss in human life, however, was a gruesome affair. Of the fifty men that manned the forwards turret, only one gunnery officer stumbled onto the burning decks, running up towards the bridge to salute.
“What’s your rank and name, son?”
“Gunnery Officer Midshipman First Class Ross Turner sir!”
“Consider this an immediate promotion to Captain’s Assistant. You go see the captain and help him out, you hear?”
“Yes sir, thank you sir!”
With a sigh, Bismarck von Hoth merely looked around at the sinking battleships and floundering armored cruisers as the fleet began it’s last ditch sortie. With a simple step over into the blood covered decks of the semaphore room, he yanked several signal flags that would work and got to work with instructing several midshipmen and surviving officers on the order he would want them up the flagpole to signal the rest of the fleet.
Once after several cursing was done, the signal read to the surviving Carriebeanian Ships was as follows:

"Sailors and Officers of the Carriebeanian Flag. I understand this battle has not been easy, with many of you running out of coal and ammunition. I shall signal all surviving auxiliary ships in the harbor to lend coal for the fleet. Any and all ships still with active stations for receiving and unloading stand by immediately.
I shall spare you the nationalist bullshit for a moment,and say that instead of focusing on an enemy that you’ve been trained to hate for a few minutes to a month at most. I could not give two shits who rules the country in the political arenas of Congress and the presidency. Politics is not my love, the sea is. I would rather not have our navy be known as the navy who died in port. I understand this is a suicidal mission, but if there’s one thing the fleet has left, it is dignity.
Come together sailors, and let us die for dignity and honor, break out the specialties for one final feast on board all ships! Fried Plantains for everyone! Once our stomachs are full and some damage repaired, our fleet shall conduct it’s final glorious assignment. We swore no oath to Washvelt, just to Carriebean! It is that, not him, to which we shall die for! Let this day be known as Navy Day for all sailors! Long Live Carriebean! Hoist Anchor and Sortie, you scurvy dogs! Prepare the Cannons!”

Almost immediately after the signal flags were read by the carriebeanian sailors, an almost electric glow encompassed the surviving ships, as if they were overtaken with duty and sacrifice. Close to ignoring the constant shellfire which exploded within the Harbor area and the fleet, all ships raised up their anchors and began to eagerly make their way to the mouth of the harbor at an organized pace.
Onboard the Armored Cruiser Doubloon, an enemy artillery shell landed smack dab down one of the smokestacks that led to the boiler room, the ship shuddering as it lost power. Apparently the captain refused to be left behind, first throwing together several oars on the top deck to row. When that seemed to be failing, he threw together several mooring lines that latched her body to a pair of speeding destroyers, the wake from their engines enough to glide her into battle.
On one of the Z- class destroyers, the impact from immediate enemy fire was enough to convince her captain to begin to head back to the port, only to be signaled and shouted directly with the admiral of the fleet himself.
“Captain Gillard Monson, where the hell do you think you’re going?”
“Well, A-admiral- the shells landed near our bow, I want to keep our bow in tact-“
“Is that any way for the Carriebeanian sailor to behave? A coward?”
“No sir… All hands come about 180 degrees, prepare the torpedoes and close to range!”
With a smile forming around Admiral Bismarck von Hoth, he watched as the destroyer came about once more and charged forth into battle. With a dutiful glow in the fleet’s eyes, the Amanzo herself was ordered to lead the fleet from the harbor, opening up with a first volley of six 14-inch cannons that were momentary flashes before flying towards their targets. Soon, every other battleship in the fleet signaled their intentions to target the lead ship, with a barrage of 10, 12- and 14-inch projectiles screaming at the first Rusklandr dreadnought, with several bright explosions and massive columns of water were seen. Soon a large glow was seen, followed by hearing a large shock wave.
The Carriebeanian Fleet still had a punch left in her.

Order of Battle for the Carriebeanian Imperial Navy
5 X Amanzo class Dreadnought Battleships: Amanzo, Nagta, Uesugi, Takeda, Oda
5 X David III class Dreadnought Battleships: David III, David II, Harold I, Samuel, Baja California,
5 X Harold Class Dreadnought Battleships: Harold I, Harold II, Harold III, Harold IV, Harold V
2 X Zhackary Class Pre-Dreadnought Battleships: Zhackary, Zhackary II,
7 X Cutlass class Armored Cruisers
6 X Z class Destroyers
20 X S class Destroyers
15 X T class Torpedo Boats
7 X V class Torpedo Boats

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

In acceptance of the Breyburgian proposed Union Pact, the Imperial Nihonese Diet and his holiness the Emperor have accepted the deal ratified in the Diet. There are strong beliefs in the general public that Europa and other foreign nations have no right to colonize Indianum land and laws such as this one are being passed to keep this so.

The Union Pact
The Indianum Alliance
STATUS NIHON: ACCEPTED

I. Every member nation of the IA has a right to leave the alliance
II. Free trade within the member nations of the IA is permitted, granted minimal inspection upon arrival at borders.
III.If a member nation is under attack, all other member nations must come to that nations aid, let it be sending weapons or food, or declaring war.
IV. If a leader proposes a new deal/legislation the meeting shall be held in their capital. Two IA council meetings will be held a year. Any leader can call upon the alliance for another meeting.
V. The IA declares it’s protection of any and all nations and peoples on the continent of Indianum that cannot fend for themselves. The IA declares that no nation not from Indianum has a right to colonize, intervene or convert any land/peoples in Indianum unless sanctioned by the IA.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Word had come of a Norcourtian supported Elixian division moving upon Carriebean to assist their Rusklandr allies. Prime Minister Naruki Hashimoto had ordered a secret war council to discuss the pending threat. Minister of War and Education General Baron Sadao Araki said "The move is not unreasonable, they are attempting to assist their allies. War with Norcourt would be a long one, with heavy casualties. Even then, we are their ally. We should send the Elixian Council a strong worded letter and be done with it!"

"We should be taking advantage of the situation. We just promised to protect all of the countries of Indianum. We must not allow them to land!" exclaimed Minister of Foreign Affairs Baron Ijuin Hikokichi.

"We could block of their entrance with our navy, but it must remain in port to defend the pending Manticorian aggression. Our 2nd Fleet is dispatched, but with the combined might of the Rusklandr and Norcoutian Fleets, does not stand a chance. It is a Battle Cruiser fleet, meant for raiding, not engaging these powerful battle fleets." said Minister of War and Education General Baron Araki.

Prime Minister Hashimoto nodded gravely. "We can't do much more than a letter, but if they do land in Nihonese annexed territory or strike first, the Norcourtian division is not the official army. It shall not cause war if fighting breaks out."
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Letter to Norcourtian Elixian Council

OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO NORCURTIAN ELIXIAN COUNCIL FROM THE NIHONESE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Public

The holy Empire of Nihon request immediate demobilization of Norcoutian forces headed to Carriebean, if it be by volunteer, regular, or proxy force and complete disengagement with Carriebean troops. Your move is coming during planned talks to end the war, and it risk prolonging it and Nihonese or Indianum Alliance involvement. Thank you for your cooperation.

Letter to Carriebean

OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO CARRIEBEANIAN OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS FROM THE NIHONESE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
TOP SECRET

We are glad you can attend the talks. Thank you. We hope you can hold out against the onslaught of the imperialistic forces. We hear Norcourtian forces are on its way so ready you men, although it can be said we will fight if they attempt to land in a manner that threatens the Indianum Alliance.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Nihonese Annexed Shishiri Capital Building

The Rusklandr diplomats would be arriving soon, so were diplomats from Carriebean, Breyburg, and Nihon to discuss terms of peace, and at the very least, a cease-fire.
The Nihonese garrison was prepared, in case of any attack, they were ready. The Teishin Shudan Special Forces Group had arrived armed with sidearms of Type B 7 mm Nambu Pistols, and an assortment of rifles, ranging from Warglorian-made HAG02 Halbautomatisch Gewehr Semi-Automatic Rifles, ASG09 Automatic Rifles, MP11s, and mounted FZMG11s were protecting the capital building, with reinforcement of 100 heavily armed Kenpeitai officers with their Type B 7 mm Nambu Pistols, Katanas,and Type 38 Rifles. The local garrison had been alerted, with men setting up Type 11 Light Machine Guns, MG01/05 Heavy Machine Guns, and Type 3 Heavy Machine Guns. Snipers had been placed in surrounding buildings with Type 38 Rifles. Security would be tight. To add to it, the bombardment group was on alert and it was said they would fly overhead as the Rusklandr diplomats arrived to truely show them Nihonese air power.

[Arengin Union]

---

Royal Arenginian Imperial Ball
St. Osloverg, Arengin.
Royal Palace.

---

The evening continued normally, with dances and entertainment taking attention of most and some delegations had begun to leave for the night as most of the important matters for them had been fulfilled. Music filled the atmosphere and so did laughs and chatter, everyone was enjoying themselves, all except for Milkensenovich, the director of the Okrana had remained steadfast through the whole thing. For the Minister of Security it made him uneasy to see a Boer talking with the king out of all people, Milkensenovich was not very keen on the Boers and especially now with the rebellion in the Traansval and Arenginian soldiers dying, even the queens origins made him unsure about her loyalties. Milkensenovich however, refrained from openly expressing such opinions as he kept looking at the Boer "delegate" conversing with the King.

"I assure you sir I harbor no Ill will towards Her Majesty Melissa, and I believe any ill will in my country will dissipate after this whole bloody affair is ended. My father served with the army during the older days of the Entente and he told me of how the Boers and Arengins were once the greatest of allies, those days are long past but they were soured from ideological disagreements and the formation of alliances, not by disagreements between our people. When this war is over I see the distinct possibility for a rehabilitation of relations. As to how we end it..." Schlak said, trailing off at the end as he procured the blue bound papers from his suits front pocket and handed it across the table to King Oswyn.

Nikolai refrained from touching the blue bounds of paper, he simply eyed them for a few seconds as he and his wife kept listening to Burgers words. Nikolai's expressions were differing, it would be very hard to say what the King was thinking and his general opinion on them man, but the very thing that had always set apart Nikolai from his predecessor was his preference to dialogue and conflict resolution, Burger should've been grateful for this.

"The Provisional Government has given me the ability to negotiate a treaty to end the fighting. It will of course have to be ratified by our Legislature but they want peace just as much as I and my government do. I'm sure your Majesty and your allies will have clauses and stipulations which you will want addressed in any such treaty, which we are open to. However, no treaty shall be accepted by myself or my government unless it ensures the complete and total withdrawl of all forces of the Western League from the territory of the continental Traansval within a period of Ninety Days and a complete end to all offenseive activities. We will also demand a return of all stolen and confiscated property of the former Government or Private Citizenry of the Traansval." Schlak state matter of factly.

Nikolai looked over to his wife, the two eyed each other and spoke in their slavic language for a few minutes, it must've been an awkward moment for Burger. For a moment Nikolai seemed to be apprehensive, but Melinka's face was a lot more accepting, she was the one who then addressed her fellow Boer.

"My husband is very much so open to peace in the Traansval and a withdrawl of all Arenginian forces in the area. However he also has several... stipulations that I am sure your government can attest to if they are truly committed to this peace agreement." The women then looked at Nikolai, the King's face was seldom uneasy but in the end he got closer to the blue papers and skimmed through them for a few seconds before then addressing Burger.

"Just as my Queen said, I am open to this... Agreement. But I want three things, those fighters of your country who call themselves "Rangers" all have to be disarmed by Arenginian occupational authorities and will cease all combat operations through the 3 months that will take the Arenginian command to withdraw. I also want a complete limiting of Boer military operations in the Arenginian border region for a period of 10 years, I too shall see that no training exercises of mass troop movements are made in our side either as a show of good faith. And I want Boer forces in those provinces to be limited to 100,000 men for a period of at least 5 years." Nikolai sat back into his chair, "Those are all my conditions."

---

---

Desurum Province, Traansval.
Arenginian Occupation Zone.
Cocolay Detention Center.

---

It was finally over, after a long and arduous firefight the Boers had been beaten back, several bodies of Arenginian soldiers laid dead on the ground but so did plenty of Boers who had been gunned down and chased off without mercy. Lieutenant Drilekov raised his rifle in victory as did his compatriots who chanted in celebration.

"We have beaten back these barbarians comrades! We shall never fall to these animals!" Drilekov yelled to a cheerful crowd.

The celebration was then cut short by several soldiers arriving to the site from the inner camp, dawn had already break and it was much clearer what had actually happened. "Prison break! There has been a prison break!" one of the soldiers yelled out in a panic, this surprised Drilekov and the others who looked confused and perplexed, even much more when hit with the other news.

"Lieutenant... A vast number of prisoners have escaped... we managed to only round up a few dozens, mostly women, children, and elderly." A soldier said towards Drilekov who had an angered face within him.

"We shall call in the air corps and the reconnaissance patrols, they wont get too fa-" The lieutenant was then interrupted by another set of news.

"And... Major Afanastev is gone sir... no body was recovered and I believe some of the soldiers said the Boers took him prisoner."

"Those wretched Boer bastards!" He cursed. It was all making a lot of more sense, those damn Boers had fooled them and now Drilekov and the others had lost their commanding officer. The chain of command made it so that Drilekov was now in command, a rather heavy burden for the much younger soldier, but he would lead these men with tenacity and as best as he could, but they had to rescue the Major and he hoped the patrols could do just that.

---

Blurry vision, bloody brow and pain all over his body, Major Afanastev had ceased to be a commander and was now a prisoner of war as he found himself in a wagon heading to an unknown fate. The Arenginian was being taken care of by a couple of Boer women tending to his wounds a Boer Bosranger with a rifle inside looking at him with contempt.

"Where... where am I..." Afanastev asked with no answer given. This was perhaps the worst of all things to happen to him.

---

---

Somewhere in the Eastern Traansval.
Arenginian Occupation Zone.

---

The air was warm, it was a bright dawn as a nearby river flew freely and horses of the Arenginian 18th Cavalry drank water while their riders rested in their tents and campfires. Several lookouts where present at the perimeter and would shot into the air at the first sign of trouble. Millevski, now promoted Major of the 18th Cavalry division was inside his tent and overseeing the map of the region, marking each explored site with a red flag and working out the next possible place for the Boer 33rd to be present at. For months the two forces had been engaged in a cat and mouse game it was ever so frustrating for each side when outmaneuvered by the other and yet no decisive battle had been made and no victory could be secured by either.

As Millevski marked the spots on the map he stroke his beard with much intrigue, "This 33rd is smart... they are well lead and are not like the rest of these unorganized brutes. We must destroy them quick or it shall be the end of us... I wonder... the Ramsaye Valley?" He marked the area of this valley with a pencil and began to think, all while still uttering random words and thoughts out loud.

Millevski's lone rambling was cut short by one of his men calling for him from outside of the tent. "Major, there is an urgent message."

With a face of mild annoyance Millevski threw the pencil onto the map and whilst walking with a slight limp he exited the tent to receive the message, he was greeted by his men and a messenger bearing the usual regular army cap and a non cavalry attire.

"Urgent telegram for you major." The soldier handed the envelope to the Millevski and saluted.

Millevski opened the envelope and took little time to read it, he let out a sigh and set the piece of paper inside his shirt as he then pulled his sleeves down and he was then approached by his second in command at his own request.

"What is it Major, sir."

Millevski took a short time to respond as he entered the tent and began putting on his jacket and taking his other gear. "Rally the men, we're departing in an hour,"

"Is it the 33rd sir?" The Arenginian subordinate asked.

"Maybe... the Bosranger attacked a prisoner detainment camp and kidnapped some high profile officer as well as freeing a bunch of their owns most likely... We're dispatch to chase them down."

"Very well sir, I shall rally the men." The officer exited the tent, Millevski simply remained calm and silent as he readied himself for battle yet again.

[Norcourt]

House Elix, Norcourtia, Norcourt

---

---

The Men of the Council argued and argued, as the Nihonesian telegram had been read aloud by Grand Aldermen James Coriden. It was understood by the council, that the Nihonese had began to think the Norcourtians were attempting to spark a war. The hollowed halls of the House Elix made even the deafest of men curl in agony, as the arguing of all the Aldermen, echoed through it's vast intestinal corridors.

"Perhaps it was all but a minor misunderstanding. I am positive, my brothers, that if these Nihonese are to understand the fact that the Elixian Army are in no way intending to harm or jeopardize the alignment that our home country has towards Nihon, then everything will be perfectly fine." said Alderman Virsius

"Brother, you are wronged. The landing and assault on Carriebean will stampede upon their Indianum Alliance, leading a fight against Carriebean will lead to a much larger fight against the Indianum Alliance as a whole, dragging our mother country along with us into the ditch. Though we are supporting our brother nation of Ruskland-Preuben, perhaps the Indianum Alliance will be considered the aggressors, as they will be the ones declaring war upon our nation's support of our ally. Men of the Elix, I say we press on! " declared Alderman Lockhart

"And so that is that my brothers. We shall press on, and assist our ally nation of Ruskland-Preuben. We have all come to mutual agreement, and henceforth shall proceed to begin the writing of said response telegram. His excellency will be notified at once. I declare this daily council, concluded." said the Grand Alderman Coriden, "For the Elix!" , "Or for nothing!" the council shouted, in response to the Grand Alderman.

Letter to the Nihonese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

An Official Statement From The Elixian Council, House Elix

After much consideration, of the current situation, the Elixian Council has come to agreement, of the refusal of your demands. Whereas the Elixian Council, and all branches of such, are a separate entity and not of His Excellencies' Norcourtian Military Fighting, and whereas we are in mere assistance to our ally nation The Imperium of Ruskland-Preuben, The Elixian Council, has voted in favor to continue in it's current operations. Your cooperation, is noted.

[Ruskland-Preuben]

Battle's End

The sounds of massive water splashes, and the occasional explosion, reverberated throughout the Rusklandr Fleet, caused by the enemy firing at them while doing a suicidal charge. Had they not noticed they had allowed their T to be crossed with that one action? To this, Group Admiral Dmitar II Svenimir shook his head hard. They would be eliminated with ease at this rate, oh well, that was a good thing, might as well make it happen faster. Aaaand the Dominator was gone, destroyed by enemy fire, and their torpedoes as well. "Oh for fuck's sake, how can we be getting hit," crying out in exasperation, he would then bang his fist on a table, scaring away a nearby aide, "They can only use their forward guns, ah damn it all!". He then recalled the aide, who was slowly inching away from the table, "You! Tell all our ships to direct fire on the enemy fleet, as well as telling anything with torpedoes to begin flanking maneuvers on the charging enemy," he ordered him, "The harbor is done for regardless, but the navy is a threat, a small one, but something that needs to be eliminated immediately.". He paused for a second, noting the aide's slight lag in movement, before shouting, "And do it now! NOW! GO GOD DAMMIT!". At this point, the lad simply fled his presence to bark his orders somewhere else to someone else. A few splash and explosion interspersed minutes later, counter fire was heard. "Good, good!" He'd whisper to himself.

On the destroyers, the sound of roaring engines was akin to that of a giant waking. Screams of "Full ahead!" and "Ready torpedoes!" were woven into the air surrounding them along with the sounds of turbines and splashing water. Deep down under, submarines did the same, albeit they were more quiet about their business, from a certain point of view, inside, shouts were as loud as the rumbling of engines working at their hardest. They had been ordered to split into two groups, one went left of the enemy, the other to the right. Once they were in firing range, well, they fired, obviously. They also had to harass the enemy ships, forcing them to direct their fire at them instead, which would allow their own ships more breathing time to prepare more shots. It was already close to afternoon when they made contact with the enemy's flanks, 11:47 AM, to be exact. From that time they began firing almost everything that they had on them at the enemy's flanks, the result being multiple trails on the water's surface and a later result would be the explosions resulting from the torpedoes, although it remained to be seen, as those didn't hit yet. The clock then shifted to 11:48, and the first torpedo struck, and at what the enemy called Amanzo class.

They then temporarily left the enemy to maneuver themselves into a position where they could harry the charging enemy. And the Rusklandr ships began firing once more, a hailstorm of shells. Some splashed, some hit, and some of those hits might have been very, very severe. "FIRE SOME MORE!" Dmitar would be shouting at his men, urging them to reload the turrets' guns as fast as they could. He was considering making his slightly sore throat even sorer when he saw two massive ships at their back. He took a pair of binoculars and gave them a quick peek, "Finally!" He'd shout, "Men, reinforcements!". And so they sailed into position, the two Emperor Iohannes Class Superdreadnoughts, the namesake Emperor Iohannes, a veteran of the 9 Years War, and the latest addition to the class, the Unbroken. They had readied their guns beforehand, and were able to begin firing almost immediately as a result. He took another peek with his binoculars, this time on the aircraft carrier, the Hawk, as well as the transports and their escorts, these were positioned near the aircraft carrier. He had wired orders to the crew of that ship, orders to launch their planes and throw their torpedo bomb payloads in conjunction with the destroyers and submarines, but instead of the flanks being fired upon, they would be launching them from a forward angle from the enemy's perspective, this was to destroy as many ships as possible at the vanguard of the charge, which would cause it to be bogged down.

---

Talks for Shishiri

The arriving Emperor Iohannes Class Superdreadnoughts didn't just bring with them, themselves. No, they had also brought a diplomat for the theoretical that diplomatic talks were to begin, and what opportune timing! Talks were just about to begin! The small destroyer holding the man would split from the two superdreadnoughts just a few miles off the site of the Battle of Shishiri. A few more days of sailing, and the destroyer was sighted by Japanese ships, hoisting up a flag of truce. They would then be escorted into harbor by said ships. As for the identity of the diplomat, it was just good old Alto P. Eadricing, one of the architects behind the creation of the Imperial Bloc, and a renowned general and diplomat both. He was currently reading a newspaper, front page was about the declaration of the Union Pact, something about strengthening relations between Indianum Alliance nations. The last clause alarmed him so, especially the last part of it, said clause called for the prevention of conversions to non-native faiths, this was very alarming, as Occultist missionaries would be unable to enter the continent and redeem the unredeemed. He also took note of the Japanese affirming this pact, a move that was unsurprising. The Japanese and the Rusklandr would be equals in terms of zealousness, they had their Emperor, and the other had Cthulhu and friends.

His train of thought was interrupted with an assistant entering his quarters, "Sir, we have docked," she told him, "Would you like more time to prepare?". "Actually, no," he replied, "I am prepared, let us go.". And so he went, with the assistant trailing right behind him. On the deck, he beheld the sight of the city, it had bombed areas now and then, but it was slowly transitioning from rebuilding into rebuilt. Sections of the city had traditional Carriebean architecture, these were the areas untouched by the shelling of the city, while in the rebuilding areas, oriental Nihonese architecture was rising up. All in all, a beautiful panorama. Ah, the boarding and deboarding stairway had been put into place, oh well, he could simply just look at the view later, duty came first after all. At the bottom of the stairway, he noted, were a few armed men in Japanese uniform. "Ah, you must be our escort, correct?" He called out to them as he descended into dry land.

[The Traansval]

St. Osloverg Palace
Arengin

"My husband is very much so open to peace in the Traansval and a withdrawl of all Arenginian forces in the area. However he also has several... stipulations that I am sure your government can attest to if they are truly committed to this peace agreement." The women then looked at Nikolai, the King's face was seldom uneasy but in the end he got closer to the blue papers and skimmed through them for a few seconds before then addressing Burger.

"Just as my Queen said, I am open to this... Agreement. But I want three things, those fighters of your country who call themselves "Rangers" all have to be disarmed by Arenginian occupational authorities and will cease all combat operations through the 3 months that will take the Arenginian command to withdraw. I also want a complete limiting of Boer military operations in the Arenginian border region for a period of 10 years, I too shall see that no training exercises of mass troop movements are made in our side either as a show of good faith. And I want Boer forces in those provinces to be limited to 100,000 men for a period of at least 5 years." Nikolai sat back into his chair, "Those are all my conditions."

Burger internally sighed with relief, it seemed that his mission wouldn't be for naught. "These terms would be... acceptable, to my government. If your Majesty wishes I can return to my delegation tonight and present a written agreement for review within a weeks time." Schlak spoke evenly to the King. He reached forward and withdrew his Diplomatic Papers which the King had let rest on the table. He then withdrew a slip of paper and wrote on it with a pen, handing it to one of the Kings Guards, "This is the address for a Hotel which our Delegation is using as a Residence, you may send men to contact us here at any time."

---

Ramsaye Valley Encampment, Desurum Province

The embers of the fire burned with a low glow, providing illumination of the barest kind over the circle of men. One of them removed a bayonet from his rifle and poked at the fire, sparking it back to life a bit, helped by the addition of more branches and twigs. Cornelius de Boer huddled of a map laid flat on the dirt, a topographical map of the region. The Ramsaye valley was in the southern most region of Desurum, near the Arengin border where the terrain became more and more elevated as you reached the Molvernian Mountains. The area had been home to the 33rd Kommando for the majority of the war, but now it would serve a different purpose.

"We certainly got their attention sir, but do you think they'll figure it out?" A young officer asked De Boer.

"Our attacks have all radiated from the valley. The 18th is not stupid son. This Camp Raid is just what we needed to finally get their attention." Cornelius responded with some scorn.

"What're our orders then sir?" A older officer asked.

De Boer smirked and stood up, picking up the map as he stood and now holding it horizontally from him. He pointed to a place on the map and then moved it off the map, connecting it with the geography around him. "I want the 1st Squadron demounted on the north-eastern slope, the 2nd Squadron the same on the South-Western Slope. The valley floor is 400m away from the slopes so make sure your men have our best rifles. The 3rd Squadron will be in the center guarding the camp and the prisoners. When the 18th enters the valley, the 3rd will begin a retreat to draw them in. Then, the 1st and 2nd will open up with fire from both sides. I want the 4th Squadron Mounted with the 3rd, so that when the fire begins they can charge behind the 18th."

The officers around De Boer nodded along, understanding the mans orders. "Inform your men and have them move at first dawn, we'll rest for the night, and in the morning we shall destroy the Mounted Devils." De Boer said with a smile as he anticipated the great victory that the dawn would bring him and his men. Glory was the name of the game, and Fame is De Boer's future.

---

St. Osloverg, the Continental Hotel
Arengin

Jan Boschoff sipped lightly on his coffee, he was drinking it primarily to distract himself as he personally disliked it. However, it was a favorate among Boers and so when the Continental, the only Hotel in the city who would take them and wasn't a shithole, signed on a Boer delegation to stay within their walls they loaded the room's cuboards with coffee. It was the only thing to drink besides water. This didn't effect Francis Reitz, the third member of the Boer delegation, and the last one too. Theirs was not too big, just Jan, Francis, and Schlak who was currently at the Ball. Seeing as how the doors to their room hadn't been busted down by the police yet, Jan assumed that Schlak's mission was going along well.

A knock at the door came and Jan sat up in surprise. The ball wouldn't be over for a few hours. Maybe this was the police...

Jan tentatively put down his cup and stood up. Francis stepped through the open doorway from the connecting room, looking at the door with worry. Jan simply straightened his tie, straighted his back, and stepped straightly towards the door. He opened it to a crack, allowing for the chain to stop the door from opening completely. He saw a man dressed in a western fashion but obviously asian. Satisfied that it wasn't the police, Jan opened the door all the way.

"Can I help you?" Jan inquired, wondering why an Asian man in a suit was calling on the Boer delegation at this hour.

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

To their message, there was a quick reply from the Norcourtian Elixian Council. There was debate in the Diet of how to reply to their message, that had rejected Nihonese demands.

Prime Minister Hashimoto sat considering how to reply to such a message. Minister of War and Education General Baron Araki had noted, "Their failure to accept the demands was expected. We cannot do very much at this point. Our deployed 2nd Fleet has no ability to do more than block off the coast or raid. They cannot engage TWO battle fleets."

Minister of Foreign Affairs Baron Hikokichi said "Why don't we just ask them to limit engagements and not push into the Carriebean capital. The war is almost over and if we can solve it in the talks with Ruskland, then they will back off and return to Norcourt."

"It is decided then. We will demand they limit their engaging force and cooperate with Ruskland in the talks." said the Prime Minister.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO NORCOURTIAN ELIXIAN COUNCIL FROM THE NIHONESE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Public

The holy Empire of Nihon formally demands that you limit engagements with the Imperial Carriebeanian Army and if possible only act in defense of your Rusklandr allies. We also demand you do not approach within 2 miles of the Carriebean capital or the Nihonese-Carriebean border. We are grateful for your cooperation.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Nihonese Annexed Shishiri

The Rusklandr destroyer was escorted in by two Nihonese destroyers of the Imperial 2nd Fleet. Once docked, 10 Teishin Shudan Special Forces and Kenpeitai men surrounding the Nihonese diplomat, Baron Kijūrō Shidehara.

The Rusklandr called out "Ah, you must be our escort, correct?"

And Baron Shidehara replied "Yes. You must be the Rusklandr diplomat, General Eadricing. It is good to meet you. I am very hopeful that we can solve this war in the talks."

Baron Shidehara nodded to one of the guards, who opened the door to a black Mitsubishi Motors Model A Staff Car and invited the Rusklandr in. The Baron spoke, saying, "I hope you enjoy your visit. If you need anything just ask, our security is tight to ensure your safety. The car pulled away from the docks followed by several other cars and continued to the capital, as a squadron of Nihonese fighters and bombers roared overhead for a brief moment as a show of Nihonese air power to the diplomats.

[The Hoosier Alliance]

Marshal Brandon Jones of Iron Guard Hoosier has announced today the ratification of the Union Pact, praising it as another step in the direction of long term security and stability of Indianum.



Somewhere in the Hoosier countryside...
Nathanial Henderson, son of a now deceased former Lord in the state of Wein, drummed his fingers on the large table he was sitting at. On the table were a number of items, strewn about with no particular order to them. There were drinks, knifes, a pair of glasses, various documents, pencils, pens, and a map. The map, which sat in the center of the table, had a number of red dots, drawn on with a nearby marker. The dots were few, less than a dozen, and were made in various states within Iron Guard Hoosier. The dots represented the warehouses, barns, and other assorted buildings that housed the last remaining loyalist forces in the country. Not that the forces, loyal to the exiled Hoosier Royal family, were active. No, now they just collected whatever guns, ammunition, fuel, and vehicles they could mass and hide from the watchful eyes of the Hoosier military and civilian population. Their numbers were few, and their storehouses nearly empty. The militia they had spent years trying to secretly recruit for was small and untrained, their members living normal lives within Hoosier until the day came to take up arms. If that day even came. Until then, Henderson would do his best to grow his forces.

His father had been a rather minor noble, not having much attention paid to him. That's one of the reasons the Henderson family was mostly left alone. When the IGP came into power, most important nobles either fled or were executed. Same for a few of the minor nobles, but most remained in country, and their wealth was either left alone or confiscated, depending on how those nobles reacted to the IGP take over. The Henderson House bent the knee, but his family never believed in the Iron Guard movement. They joined a small, and at the time growing, loyalist group made of former Lords of Hoosier. Since the formation, however, the numbers of dropped off, either from capture or disbelief in the organization. Henderson has, in the time since 1918, become the leader of the rag-tag band of reactionaries. For a while, they actually had contact with Hamilton in exile, but that quickly ended when the IGP caught wind of the secret messages being sent back and forth. Now, they are in the dark with the happenings of Hamilton. Now, they sit and wait, hoping their chance will come.

Indianapolis, Iron Guard Hoosier
Brett Martin was never much of a political man. He had always been rather apathetic to the world of politics when he was younger. Far away decisions made by men he never knew didn't seem to bother Brett while he worked on the family farm. Even when he was drafted into the Army, Brett didn't much care about politics, rather focusing on getting home from Tamir and not dying to a Manticoran bullet. Hell, when the IGP took over and signed a peace with the enemies of Hoosier, he celebrated their rise. However, as he has gotten older, he has evolved. A lot. Where before he didn't care, he is involved. His family lost their farm after the war when much of it was destroyed by unrestrained IGP paramilitary forces. When they moved to the city, they faced the harsh repression from IGP soldiers. They promised changed, and offered none. They were no better than the monarchy, as far as Brett was concerned. That is why Brett formed his political coalition, the Hoosier Liberty Party. The HLP was a slowly growing and underground movement, demanding increased social equality for many within Hoosier, as well an institution of free and open elections. The actual platform of the HLP isn't very defined, as many within the party hold differing views. Some are more conservative, some more liberal. Some are more on the center, while others are farther to the extreme. Still, they are unified in their hatred of the monarchy AND IGP, and their dreams of a more democratic and equal society. They know, of course, that their demands would never be met unless it was at the end of a gun. Some within the HLP beg for negotiation, while most demand action. Regardless of what course of action Brett decides on, they are a long way off from doing anything meaningful. Their numbers, while growing, are few. Their stockpiles are low and they barely have enough rifles or bullets to train with, let alone stage an uprising. They would have to stick to the shadows for now, until they were properly prepared. That point of readiness seemed like a far way off. Still, Brett knew that the path of a revolutionary was never easy and that the path to freedom was wet with the blood of tyrants and patriots. Change, it seemed, never came without a little planning, and a lot of dying.





In the Hoosier capitol building, Brandon Jones was being informed of the acceptance of support from the Boers. "Great," Jones said, "This will give us a chance to bleed the Aclusians without having to risk our own skins. Are the weapons on their way?" One of his advisers nodded, "Yes sir. The ships appear to be any normal civilian cargo ship. They will be going to well established areas of smuggling. The Boers have been bringing in many of their arms the way we will be sending them, better to keep things simple. Rifles, bullets, food...everything we promised them. The first few shipments will be a little on the light side, make sure nothings been compromised, and we'll start pouring in everything we can. That also brings us to our next problem..." The adviser stepped to the side to allow another man to step up and begin speaking. "Sir, our industrial capacity if limited, as we all know. With the added strain of supporting the Boers with so much, we've had to cut how much goes to our armed forces, mainly the forty thousand men you ordered to add to our army. We had no problem with getting men to volunteer, but arming those men has become a problem. And we both know men can't train with rifles they don't have. We need more guns."

Jones nodded. "I understand our problem, but what can be done?"

"Well, sir, for one we can encourage industrial growth with new subsidies for factories, but those effects, while significate, won't be seen for months. However, there is another way to gain weapons now while we wait for our policies to take their full effect." Jones raised an eyebrow, "And what would that be?"

"The Manticoran Empire, sir. They sell weapons internationally, and we believe they would sell to us. We can buy what we need now, and as our industrial base grows, we produce more for ourselves and buy less in the future. Or at least, that's the hope."

Jones took a deep breath before he replied, "I don't like the idea of relying on a foreign power for our defense, but what choice do we have? That will be our course of action. Make it so. Make the arrangements with the Manticoran companies.”

To the Provisional Republic of the Traansval,

We are glad to hear your reply. Our shipments of arms, ammunition, food supplies, and fuel will begin immediately and will flow through your already established smuggling points. We wish you luck in you fight against the evils of the Aclusian Empire. May God guide you.

Today, the Marshal of Iron Guard Hoosier, Brandon Jones, and his Junta of Generals and Advisers, officially and publicly condemns the actions of Aclus against the Boers. Their policy of ignoring civilian casualties during their war of oppression against what should be a free people has not gone unnoticed by the Hoosier government, and we implore the morally minded people within Aclus to demand an end to illegal occupation of the Boer homeland. Bombings of civilain population centers with the intent of terrifying the Boers into submission should be met with disgust by all nations of the world. The Hoosier people stands in spirit with the Boers, and we want the Boers to know that we Hoosiers know the pain of being brutally used by the Aclusians for their sick goals.

[Rannoria]

Deals

---

To Ruskland
St. Osloverg Palace, St. Osloverg
The Arengin Union
1922
The Grand nodded. Although he had been expecting this, and although Rannoria needed the aid, he still believed that the colony was worth holding on to. One part of him knew that to build Rannoria up again, he had to make sacrifices for the long run. Sometimes you simply can't win, and he felt that it was one of those situations. Meanwhile, he also felt that there could be some other alternative. His colony on the Afrikan mainland was useful, providing oil, metals, and other resources, and right now, resources from it have been helping Rannoria rebuild itself. But rebuilding could happen a lot faster if Ruskland was able to help instead. Vail had been seeking a more self-sustainable policy for Rannoria, and although keeping the colony would fit this goal well, it was only a small piece of land as opposed to the landmass that is metropolitan Rannoria. So, instead of coming up with a straight answer, Vail opted for this.

"Of course. You are seeking to build a global empire, and in return for helping us, you wish to fulfill your goals." The Grand straightened himself, then continued, "But, as it stands, I am not sure as to whether this deal will be completely beneficial for the both of us. While we in Rannoria do indeed need the help, I am quite sure that there are other powers which are willing to put in more for my colony which is also greatly beneficial for us Rannorians. So, in turn, I'd like to propose a deal." The Grand looked around, then focused back on the conversation. "As we speak, I am quite sure that representatives and delegates from other nations are hearing what we are discussing. In fact, I am very certain that one representative will meet with a Rannorian delegate on this night. If you can better your deal - let's say by helping pay off our payments for the Treaty of Rannkradle, or re-armament - you'll be back on the board. If not, then your chances of gaining this colony are lost, and instead other competing countries will put in their payments and win the auction. I do not wish to be so pressing all of a sudden, but Rannoria must get something out of this. It is indeed a lot to ask, but right now our most comforting ally is a nation all the way across the world in Indianum who is sending aid for free. Although we are allies, and although your aid may be more substantial than his, you will have to put in a better offer than just rebuilding to get our colony." He leaned in closer into Hæsteinn's ear, reducing his voice to a near-whisper. "The Alliance of Republican Nations is weak. The Traansval is fighting for its independence, Manticore hasn't helped either of us, and Breyburg is the only other ally who is able to help because he is the only other one who is capable of doing so. The world is a den of wolves, and to stay alive, Rannoria has to do what it must. But you also need global influence. As it stands right now, the Western League has an undisputed grip on the world. Aclus, the Twelve Isles, Wargloria, Arengin, and many other nations are more powerful than both of us when combined. You must also ask how much you are willing to put in to become a truly great power."

The Grand leaned out and returned his voice to normal. He put on a faint smile, and asked, "So what will it be? Although we do want to deal with this issue quickly, we are not under a time limit. If you have something to say, then you are welcome to say it now. If you do not, then you can wire a telegram another day, and with all other potential offers, we will consider everything. I'm sorry to be so pressing, but I must help my country."

To Nihon
St. Osloverg Palace, St. Osloverg
The Arengin Union
1922
As expected, Vail was right. Later on during the ball, Nihonese delegates approached Rannorian ones, and soon discussions of the colony commenced. The delegates knew what Vail had said, and with that in mind, they will also do their best. With two Nihonese aids came two Rannorian delegates, and to start off the official negotiations in that evening, one of the delegates, Ordan Shalk, spoke first, "So, what do you plan to put in for your offer. Already, we have had the nation of Ruskland-Preuben sending an offer, so unless you provide an exceptionally good offer, it will not be so easy to purchase this colony. Will you aid us financially? Will you re-arm us? Will you rebuild us? What will you do to pay for this colony? How much are you willing to put in?"

To Rannoria
Rannkradle
The Federation of Rannoria
1923-1924
After his trip to St. Osloverg, Vail did some thinking. He remembered one thing that he said to Hæsteinn, and that was "Rannoria must do what it must". Although anyone could have said it, and although it wasn't a particularly unique line, it was quite a statement coming from the leader of a sovereign country. As he arrived back in Zee Prlmnt, he began to think, and after many meetings with the two councils and other close advisors, he decided upon a nation-wide announcement. Although he had more drastic measures planned, these measures were certainly enough to cause at least some outcry. How much outcry, he did not know, but he knew that with his supporters being the majority of the Rannorian political climate, the outcry of the syndicalists could be minimised. Sure, his policies would not please anyone, but hopefully his supporters wouldn't be so uppity about it.

Unfortunately for him, his planned policies for 1923, henceforth named the "Abolition of 1923", would have great repercussions, and may make or break his political career.

His idea on paper was simple. Very simple in fact. It was to abolish labour unions. He knew that this would be much, much harder to do in practice, but once the law was written he only could see what would happen from there. With this, his advisors suggested that all strikes in response to this would have to be put down by force. With a sigh, he had to say yes. What was the point of making such a law if it couldn't be enforced? Vail knew that this law wouldn't sit well with the syndicalists, since their power essentially came through worker unions and strikes, but technically wouldn't reducing strike amounts and weakening labour unions weaken the syndicalist power in Rannoria? Of course, this could only be seen in time.

As the headline, "The Abolition of Labour Unions" was read more in newspapers around in Rannoria, the greater anger it stirred. Perhaps Vail had underestimated his popular support, or perhaps he had underestimated the size of the syndicalists. The truth was that, despite his successes at the Treaty of Rannkradle, Vail didn't have much to show for himself. For a year, people living in or near the most damaged parts of Rannoria did not see much improvement, and although Breyburgians were able to help, destitution and poverty were widespread in those areas. Although Vail had said they were to be prioritised, he instead prioritised industry and capital, and through that the lack of progress in a year had shown the populace of Rannoria that the son of the great Sios Adance wasn't so great. With some expectations, the red movement gained traction again, but this time it was gaining popularity quickly. Vail's faith in his supporters was larger than it should have been, and soon he realised the larger problem at hand. He knew that if he didn't fix things before his term ended, he would not win the next election. What he wasn't expecting was that his term may end before it officially should. These thoughts built up, but he was able to push them away until one day.

On the 7th of December, an attempt on Vail's life had failed. On that day, things were going well. Through his deeds, things began to happen faster. The industry was building up, the economy was strengthening, and manufacturing was producing more goods than expected. Of course, this came at the expense of the workers. Through the abolition came lower wages and poorer working conditions. Although work hours remained relatively unchanged, life had been going worse for workers all around Rannoria, and especially for those in regions affected by the war. Shipments sent in by Wargloria and Aclus had been helping with humanitarian aid, but to much Rannorian dismay, these efforts seemed to be helping more than the government of Rannoria did. Perhaps it was just anger, but at one point it had become enough. Despite the ban on strikes, and the subsequent amount of force that was to be taken against strikers, workers and other citizens alike marched through the streets of Heden on the 4th of December. They protested under these new deregulations, and demanded that old laws be brought back. As expected, government forces met with syndicalist protesters in Old Heden, where a monument remained. The orders were given, and upon those words, government forces fired on the crowd. Some of the crowd dispersed, and soon more began to do so, but those who remained would be shot down. On that day, more than 100 were killed. This caused outrage throughout Rannoria, and soon Vail's popularity had hit an all-time low. Already, there had been several strikes, but this one was by far the largest, and was the only one with a death toll.


[The December Massacre, 1923]

As a response, the syndicalist Albert Arlichin was brought back up into the spotlight. The syndicalists needed a figurehead again, and who else was better than the man who ran against Vail himself one year prior? In Rannkradle, citizens paraded him around the streets and demanded the restoration of regulations. To deal with this, though, Vail quickly assembled a force who were brought out on the streets to quell the crowds. Vail gave the orders to not fire, and through luck, the crowd began to disperse. Although Vail's guards had played a role in their dispersion, Arlichin himself told the crowd to disperse. At that moment, the death of Albert and many citizens in Rannoria would only plunge Rannoria into further chaos, and so he, along with many others, fled to an unknown location. A few people did not agree with this, though, and as word about the protest in Rannkradle spread, more people began to sympathise with the ideals of those few people.

This brings us back to the 7th of December. In order to attempt to pacify the populace, Vail made several unguarded tours to different towns and cities, showing his sympathies and explaining as much as he could. Tensions were still high, though, and at the town of Grin, one man under the name of Orakim Eizer took the opportunity to end Vail's oppression once and for all. As he was speaking, Eizer shoved his way through the crowd and made his way to the front. As Vail was speaking, he yelled, "You shall no longer oppress the citizens of Rannoria! I will stand for them and for the Federasi Arbeilleur!" and pulled out a pistol. As soon as Vail saw this, he reached for his own, but the gun had been fired. Luckily, one bullet missed, and another grazed his shoulder. In turn, Vail was able to make two fatal shots and killed the man. This, of course, shocked both Vail and the crowd, and with that, he returned back to Rannkradle.

Whether this event had positive or negative effects is unknown, but what is known is that a storm is brewing in Rannoria. Whether it be the Grand, a politician, or an average citizen, every Rannorian could sense the growing tension. After that day, word spread about this so-called Federasi Arbeilleur, or "Worker's Federation". It was a simple and direct name, but what was the man referring to? The average worker? The syndicalists? Or was it a new party or group on the rise? Whatever it was, it started to gain traction, and soon (although remaining the smallest popular party in Rannoria) an official political party was formed under the name De Federasi Arbeilleur en de Komune-e Canres, translating to "The Worker's Federation and the Rannorian Communes", which was soon shortened to "F.A.K" by the average Rannorian. With this new party (although elections weren't coming so soon), the federalists and the syndicalists had someone to worry about. Although they were close to the syndicalists in ideals, they seemed to be more radical. Although strikes and other acts of rebellion were committed, outright assassination was not on the syndicalist agenda. And so 1924 begins.


[Portrait of Vail Adance]


[The January Rally of 1924, where many came together to hear the words of F.A.K speaker Elsteyyn Huta]

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

The Imperial Nihonese Army Air Force has deemed its capabilities to strategically bomb targets very limited, seeing as though it only posses one heavy bomber, so under authorization by Imperial Nihonese Army General Staff Office, a request has been made to the Aclusian government to offer payment for their great heavy bombers, a great example of modern engineering.

The Imperial Nihonese Army Air Force offers 15,000,000 Acluts worth in yen for 50 Vickers Vimy Heavy Bombers, and 60 Vickers Virginia Heavy Bombers. We are willing to raise the price. Thank you for your consideration. These bombers would be mandatory for the defense of Nihon and its interest.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

St. Osloverg, the Continental Hotel
Arengin

Major Sato of the Nihonese Imperial Guard knocked on the door of what was said to be the Traansval delegation. He had been give orders from his holiness the Emperor himself, to escort to the Emperor or speak to the Traansval delegation about a peace treaty.

A European man opened the door and asked, "Can I help you?"

Replying in perfect English, Major Sato said "Hello, my name is Major Sato, head of the deployed Nihonese Imperial Guard. Are you the Boer delegation? If so, I have come to either escort you to speak with his imperial holiness the Emperor of Nihon, or discuss on his behalf the terms to end the undeclared conflict between our two great nations."

Hoping he had the right room, he looked on awaiting the reply of the man...
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
St. Osloverg Palace, St. Osloverg
The Arengin Union

When the Rannoria delegate, Ordan Shalk, spoke first, "So, what do you plan to put in for your offer. Already, we have had the nation of Ruskland-Preuben sending an offer, so unless you provide an exceptionally good offer, it will not be so easy to purchase this colony. Will you aid us financially? Will you re-arm us? Will you rebuild us? What will you do to pay for this colony? How much are you willing to put in?"

The Nihonese aid, authorized to make an offer said, "The holy Empire of Nihon offers $10,000,000,000 Aclusian pounds worth in yen over the course of 20 years in installments. We also offer our protection from any foreign forces. Although we would first attempt diplomacy mostly if it was by the Western League. We also offer to sign an agreement of collective defense so we can import Nihonese weapons and designs to your great country. We can offer aid for your civilians and we even offer to deploy unarmed medical staff and soldiers from the Imperial Nihonese Army to pass out aid and help in rebuilding. We are willing to raise our offer. Thank you for you consideration."

[Breyburg]

Stegas, Breyburg
December 20th, 1924

Messages

To the Elixian Council of Norcourt

I wish for you and you’re forces to back out of this conflict. Talks are being held. You are simply escalating a situation that has simmered. Perhaps you can send a diplomat to the talks? That would be appreciated greatly.

I do not want war, but I am willing to fight, and so is the rest of the Indianum Alliance. We are not a joke. We are not a paper thin binding of nations. We have fought together and proved ourselves time and time again. We will not hesitate, but we wish to not spill blood until there is any profound and concrete reason. Come, talk with us.

President Martin Harvey of the Socialist Allied States of Breyburg

To Ruskland-Preuben

I appreciate your cooperation with us and the government of Carriebean. This is the embodiment of diplomacy, I hope you see that. I am glad that no more blood has been spilled during this conflict. I wish that you will listen to what all of the diploamts have to say.

I am willing to withdraw my policy of not letting you’re Cthuluist missions into Indianum. I only wish that the Cthuluist missions must present their purpose fully and truthfully to the people that you are wishing to convert, I wish that you shall not conduct any rituals that put any man, woman or child in harms way, and I wish that these missions shall not be enforced violently.

President Martin Harvey of the Socialist Allied States of Breyburg

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Preparations for the 1st Stegas Annual New Years Ball has commenced…

_________________________________________________________________________________________

8 Breyburgian Ships have set sail for the island nation of Nihon to patrol it’s waters and potentially defend against a Manticoran attack ; 4 Battlecruisers - SASS Ciburg, SASS Ely, SASS Nearon, SASS Sarton, 2 Dreadnoughts - SASS Lefbus, SASS Strenkele, 2 Aircraft Carriers - SASS Gramsby, SASS Millstone . . . 6 ships are already in Nihon; 2 Carriers - SASS Acomb, SASS Solaris, 2 Battlecruisrers - SASS Howe, SASS Arkaley, 2 Dreadnoughts - SASS Exeter, SASS Hirane



SASS Gramsby


SASS Millstone

4 Breyburgian Ships have set sail from Shakoyoko to Shishri; 2 Battlecruisers - SASS Erast, SASS Hythe, 1 Aircraft Carrier - SASS Venzor, 1 Dreadnought - SASS Polga . . .

[Newne Carriebean7]

Das Kapital Region
Presidential Palace
December 20th ,1914

President Marvin Washvelt gripped his pipe tightly in one had while his other clenched white with rage at the most recent communication.
“We’re at war with these… people called the Nourcourtians. I believe we were at war with them because we were accused of sinking their battleship or something.” His face soon curled into a slightly bemused smile.
“To think, one minute we’re marching off the soldiers to war against Breyberg and the next we’re marching off diplomats rather than soldiers to the peace talks in Shishiri. Politics and War make wonderful partners. Now. I want all forces mobilize-“
“Sir the army’s already mobilized, albeit still bloodied from the previous invasions and failed assaults. If the enemy army lands, then what are we to do?”
“It’s quite simple, I shall lead the forces in person.” Several of the Aides raised their eyebrows at this last remark before slightly chuckling, with one being blunt enough to think of it as a joke.
“That’s a good one, lead the forces in person. Sir, you’re sense of humor has lost none of it’s edges.”
“I’m serious. I’m only sixtey nine years old. I’m still young enough to mount my trusty steed and march the forces off to meet the invading Rusklandr.”
“Sir you are aware of your replacement, correct? The words Acting President Steel are leaving a rancid taste of shit in my poor mouth.”
“That’s not true, I can still command fully as both the president and general in the field. I do command the army.”
“Sir, If I may suggest an alternative, remain here in the capital while Minister Potters commands the advancing army.”
“No… I must advance with my men, my voters and my countrymen. If the navy can die splendidly, then I must show the people I am not some god like the infidels of Nihon. I bleed the same red that all carriebeanian citizens and slaves do. Inform Minister Potters of his immediate presence to the palace.”
“What of Emperor Tyler I once we re-coronate him ourselves?”
“Tyler the Ist will remain on the sidelines for now. I don’t need any distractions from national zeal. Just get Potters here.”
“Yes, President.”

One Hour Later
The team of horses soon came to an abrupt halt as the carriage’s wheels ceased their consistent turning. It was about the same feeling of irritation that it’s occupant, Minister of the Army Jackson Potters was feeling. He was in the middle of organizing a large-scale counteroffensive complete with the surviving models of armored forces and confiscated Breybergian armor, along with large amounts of the dragoons and mounted infantry for close support.
Before even waiting for a response from the local servants, though they unofficially were still slaves, Potters clambered out of the carriage, where President Washvelt was tapping his foot impatiently as another small team of horsemen waited on the side.
Washvelt’s uniform lacked the political normality of his usual self, from his usual multiple piece vests and ties sprouted a traditional outfit of the Carriebeanian Presidential Guard, with Japanese style headband fitting over the rather large top hat the guard wore, complete with black uniform, golden buttons and epaulettes on each shoulder followed waist down by a pair of sharp blue pants.
All Potters could see was the shit eating grin that could not be wiped away from his face. With some mild annoyance, Potters was the first to make a snarky remark.
“What bet did you lose to wear something as ridiculous as that?”
“I’m leading the army in person you son of a bitch. I’m loathed to leave command for the idiot of a vice president. You know the other day I caught him sniffing glue for a drug high, fucking dumbass. I’m merely appointing you as President of the Lords, in command of the Capital City Defense Force of 65,000 and acting president of Carriebean while I’m gone. “
“You’re giving me a promotion, the title of acting president and 65,000 soldiers for my will? Consider me fucking flattered.”
“Just try not to fuck anything up while I’m gone, alright?”
“No promises. I hear rumors that the Jesuits are getting rather restless.”
“Well just feed them religious propaganda about the infidel of the week and you’ll keep your neck one hundred percent noose free.”
With a very hard to come to terms with and heavily awkward pat on the back between the commander in chief and the chief in command, Washvelt mounted on his horse as the small posse trotted off for the front lines.







Hobo City
General of the Revolution Pabaladno Velspuli Casso’s footsteps echoed throughout the mostly deserted concrete hallways. Once vibrant passageways for the communist revolution, now hardly utilized by any of the surviving members. Normally the large convention center within Carriebean City would be places of radical revolution, though this had been snuffed out by the ever prevalent carriebeanian royalist and Jesuit radicals which seeped and infiltrated almost every faucet of the local government tap of information.
Several of their printing presses and publishing facilities within the city, those that had not been shelled hard in the civil war and bitter street to street fighting of the invasions, were seized under sweeping powers that had been granted by the occupation forces against “anti-allied” propaganda. They had not been exterminated, but their numbers were rather withering some.
It seemed he would spend the rest of his days, trapped within the city until relief of a bullet through the thigh would bless him with a relatively painful and drawn out death. They had fallen from 90,000 armed communists to around a third of that number, being forced out of several of the surrounding cities due to disease, desertion and lack of supplies and large communication lines. He soon heard the telephone ring, picking it up with a slight frown.
“Speak.”
“Long Live the Red Banner!”
“Long Live the Red Banner, what is it?”
“Sir. Conditions within the capital urge for the red banner to chop down the hated tricolor of black, white and red.”
“Do you understand why it was so hard in the urban fighting-“
“Sir, I have made contact with several left leaning political groups along with a plethora of former Amanzo slaves that have been educated in our communist ways, they are eager to assist us in our goals of establishing communism within Carriebean. We’ve got to try once more.”
“But our numbers are dwindling, what makes you so sure the people will enjoy another attempt at a left leaning coup?”
“Your numbers will be left with just one if this plan is not immediately carried out. Just get to the capital any way. I’ll meet you in the Rang Forsarki Hotel, room 15.”
With the tender slamming down of the receiver to the telephone, he got up from the table and informed everyone of his immediate departure, much to the chagrin of his most loyal staff members and politburo survivors.

Carriebean City

With the President gone for the front line, the defenses around several government buildings including Congress, Parliament, the Presidential Palace and several stagnating homes of the former Nobility sat with only light sentries outside each one, paid for by various slews of legislation passed by the far-right Patriotic Party. It was this somewhat cliched atmosphere that the left leaning union workers decided to act independently.
Much to the Chagrin of the onlooking Casso and the delight of the far more militant Vannessa Testsua Crumbs, the leader of the Communist Party within Carriebean. These two had butted heads frequently, especially after Casso’s discovery that she had been the one that had placed the phone call. Soon sitting down in the hotel room, with the door locked, the two looked out at the window at the growing protest of unemployed workers backed by the far-left and left leaning Communist and Farmer Parties, mirrored with the far-right counter protest by the in power Patriotic Party.
“The Carriebeanian peasant has labored too long in the fields of oppression and slavery, their shackles must and will be taken off by force!”
“Now, if we just go into there shooting off what little bullets we were able to both confiscate and smuggle into the city, we’d be outnumbered by the far right paramilitary forces. A lot of those are unemployed ex officers and military personnel.”
“But our force also has military personnel.”
“A fraction of what they have, and if we’re playing the numbers game, we’re going to lose. I’d say we just need to exercise caution and wait for a moment to arrive in order to strike.”
“But we’d lose the element of surprise, we must attack the nationalist forces immediately with everything we have!” Crumbs shouted, slamming her fist on the table with an emphasis on the ‘immediately’ part of her sentence.
“That is completely reckless for us to squander what little we have on the full force of our enemies. Conservation of our strength is needed.”
“You are not a true revolutionary!”
“I’m a revolutionary, not suicidal. You’re suicidal.”
“This kind of inaction is what condemned us to the gallows before! We must strike now, and if you’re not willing to do It, I shall!”
“What the fuck are you-“
Soon, Crumbs unveiled her trusty Colt pistol, soon grabbed out of her hands by the eager Casso, with both the man and the woman fighting over the firearm before a bullet was shot out, slamming into the window and causing a panic within the far right and far left parties on either side, with gunfire breaking out immediately in the streets, the bodies piling up as bitter fighting began to take place.
“Now look what you’ve done.” Casso sternly would state to Crumbs, who was in no mood to listen as she grabbed the pistol and ran down the steps of the hotel to personally join the fighting. While that was going on, Casso began to pack up his things again while changing his name on his luggage once more under another pseudonym.

Outside Nihonese Annexed Shishiri

The locomotive screeched to a halt outside of the relatively small train station. The railroad had recently been laid down by Nihonese, with the small locomotive’s two small cars following behind coming to an abrupt halt, forcing a tighter grip by General of the Empire Kyle Morgan, the top Carriebeanian diplomat assigned for the peace talks, before he would met the fate of several unprepared passengers and various military officers of the Nihonese rising sun, crashing forwards due to the abrupt stop. Once he had assisted several people up, the doors opened up to a miniscule wooden platform, where two Nihonese military officials awaited. Shooting them cheery smiles, Kyle Morgan waved at them before grabbing his suitcase and leaving the train.
Approaching the gaurds, he tapped on on the shoulder.
“Hello, I’m the Carriebeanian negotiator for the peace talks that are happening. I understand security is tight, but here’s my credentials.”
Handing them a leather bound information book that detailed each and every diplomatic assignment and office document that legally bound him for diplomatic service in the archaic and somewhat complicated Olde Carriespeak written out, he looked over the documents with the guards, correcting several mistakes in pronunciation to most fish out of water looks on the guards’ faces whenever a weird word came up.
After being given back all his identification, he was escorted into the portion of Nihonese Annex Shishiri, soon stepping foot into the Nihonese Annex Shishiri Capital building, soon bowing.
“Greetings. I am General of the Empire Kyle Morgan, the Carriebeanian negotiator and diplomat for the peace talks.”


St. Osloverg, The Continental Hotel
Arengin Union
General of the Empire Travis Revan stirred the glass of brandy in the rather nice-looking hotel room the Carriebeanian delegation had been moved to following complaints from the old woman that had initially kept them. He took notice of the Armored Cruiser Cutlass, still anchored outside, this time with a perfect view of the ship as it sat at anchor. He was about to enjoy another sip of brandy when he heard a knock on the door. Coming to it himself, pushing the eager to answer military aide out of the way rather roughly, he swung it open for his eyes to take in the sight of a military man that looked Asian from the first glances. Soon the man began to speak.
“Hello, my name is Major Sato, head of the deployed Nihonese Imperial Guard. Are you the Boer delegation? If so, I have come to either escort you to speak with his imperial holiness the Emperor of Nihon or discuss on his behalf the terms of end the undeclared conflict between our two great nations.”
If this ‘Major Sato’ was expecting a rather long-winded tirade about the evils of certain people, he came to the wrong place as Revan asked him to:
“Hold on.”
Before returning with his glass of brandy that he swallowed down before gulping hard and replying.
“No, I’m General of the Empire Travis Revan of the Carriebeanian Delegation. I haven’t seen the Boer delegation at all since our arrival, well maybe a glance or two in the ball, but not much more than that.”
Revan soon snapped his fingers and beamed a smile before bowing his head politely at Sato.
“Goodbye, Major Sato. I wish you the best of luck in finding these Boers. I’m going back to my Brandy.”
With a slight swagger from the alcohol in his system, Revan slammed the door shut right in the path of his aide, which bumped into the door with a thud before the aide opened it up sheepishly and tagged along to follow Revan back to the small living room as he mused through the suitcase of literature he had brought along. Several classical carriebeanian stories and historical novels about various kings and presidents, including an autobiography on his disgraced predecessor in office, Arnold Paltcher.
“I needed just to have a nice drink of brandy to myself every once and a while, just sitting there with a cigar in one hand and a glass of brandy in the other, meditating about the meaning of life.”
“Alcohol and Tobacco are certainly the miracle elixirs of our time in meditation. If we had neither, we would be savages.”
“Books make a man tribalized. Brandy and Cigars make a man civilized. All the great workers of our time have had some tobacco or alcohol nearby at one point or the other.”
With that, the pair went back to enjoy a rather quiet night of reading with little interruption, soon climbing into separate beds after washing several dishes they had eaten off.

Carriebeanian Imperial Navy
David III Class Battleship Baja California of the Imperial Carriebeanian Navy

Admiral Hood Von Hoth counted his heartbeat several times to indicate from the beginning flashes of enemy fire to when they would touch down. After counting for a total of ten times, the first enemy projectiles slammed into the oceans, then onto the Amanzo, who would shudder momentarily before keeping up the barrage of six 14-inch shells onto the next enemy ship in her sights. The other turret cracked to life on the Baja California, drawing his attention to the current problems his flagship had been having.
He noticed a large array of fires and flames gnawing throughout the ship, with miniature explosions shaking the vessel from stem to stern. Taking a peek with the spyglass lying around, he noticed the flames continue to plague the Samuel, a sister ship to the Baja California. She would still continue to sail, with Hoth soon ordering:
“The Baja California shall alter course Twenty degrees to port, bring us alongside the Samuel, then come about ninety degrees immediately! We’ll put out her flames an unconventional way.”
Just as he was about to pay attention to his grumbling stomach, he realized an urgent minor detail had been overlooked.
“Fuck! Signal the Harold I to take temporary flag command until this ship hoists the flag P, in which case they shall respond with O that shall indicate command transferred to us.”
Without or with little much as a minor burp that resembled a hitch in the command, the order proceeded rather smoothly, with the captain of the Harold I signaling all ships to begin to turn towards a parallel course with the enemy. The reason for this was to prevent all the Carriebeanian naval vessels to go twenty degrees to port and then coming about 90 degrees.
Soon, the Samuel’s raging blazes were quelled by the massive amounts of seawater and waves pushed out by the flagship, with a much appreciative wail of the ship horn being heard happily by the skipper of the formerly distressed of magazine detonation warship.
After command had been reestablished with the flagship, Admiral Hood von Hoth was just about to remark to his skipper before another shell landed into the bridge, a hail of shrapnel and glass flooding the body of Hoth, with him staggering in the room for a moment before collapsing on the ground, with faint flashes being seen.
With the apparent incapacitation of the Admiral, the surviving officers from the direct hit on the bridge, which included Captain’s Assistant Hood von Tirpitz, who soon walked down to the medical mess to check up on the commander’s condition. Hood von Hoth’s face was covered in several bandages as he underwent surgery among the large shuddering of the wounded flagship, along with around a hundred other crying and bleeding patients from officers to seamen. Lowering his ceremonial hat to his chest, he cleared his throat before saluting.
“Admiral.”
“Captain’s Assistant. I am in no way, shape or from set to command the fleet. Keep the news of this incident secret from the entire fleet. If this gets out, there might be unwise decisions. Until My health recovers and I relive you of subsequent duty, you are to command the fleet.”
“Yes Admiral.”
With the ceasing of the snappy salute, Tirpitz left the emergency room and walked to the docking bridge where he had ordered the officers to gather. The Docking bridge was for all intents and purposes, meant as a last resort, with a far more dangerous position on it. It had two staircases on either flank of a raised structure, where the steering wheel and engine order telegraphs were. Soon these machines were ringing to live with new orders to the slave whipped boiler room and fiery hot engine room that continued to provide power to the vessel.
The occasional silence was broken up by the pair of 12-inch naval guns that boomed to life on the stern section. All ships of the fleet were doing something, from the destroyers and torpedo boats racing forwards at top speeds to deliver their torpedoes at close range towards enemy battleships to the continuing to shoot Armored Cruiser pairs that fired everything they had.

The Takeda, stuck at the rear of the force unable to locate any targets, soon found first blood with the excited targeting of a presumed enemy battleship. Soon, it’s salvos plunged into the sea and apparently onto targets, with only the faintest of explosions being seen, though hardly heard from such extreme ranges for the 14 inch main guns. The David II cracked to life with a hard port turn to bring her broadside into range, peppering two enemy ships with the polite salvos of four shells and twelve others respectively from her first volley of the battle. The relatively undamaged Nagta unleashed her first volley, with the first turret’s crews so excited that the gun tampions had been neglected for removal, with the first volley shooting them out along with the large 14-inch projectiles towards enemy armored cruisers sighted.

Elsewhere, on either side of the fleet, a triplet of destroyers shuddered before dropping out of formation, signaling Z repeatedly. Huge Columns of Water burst on the Armored Cruisers Polly and Blackbeard, indicating torpedo hits. More underwater artillery shells powered towards the rear ship of Harold IV, with two massive columns of water being spotted as large as the flagstaff of the warship. More explosions and thrusts of massive amounts of wet real estate were thrown up into the air alongside the battleships David II, Nagta, and Zhackary, with the latter ship shuddering down, losing steam with a direct hit into the boiler room. The Zhackary class Pre-Dreadnought would soon turn rapidly to port, filling in the open gash of the boiler room hit, capsizing within less than forty seconds, with only 1 man of her 621 complement being fished from the seas. The David II and Nagta were better built to take the torpedo hits, with more noticeable dipping in the David II battleship compared to a slight lean on the more modern Nagta battleship.

Order of Battle for the Carriebeanian Imperial Navy
5 X Amanzo class Dreadnought Battleships: Amanzo, Nagta, Uesugi, Takeda, Oda
5 X David III class Dreadnought Battleships: David III, David II, Harold I, Samuel, Baja California,
5 X Harold Class Dreadnought Battleships: Harold I, Harold II, Harold III, Harold IV, Harold V
1 X Zhackary Class Pre-Dreadnought Battleships: Zhackary II,
15 X Cutlass class Armored Cruisers
9 X Z class Destroyers
25 X S class Destroyers
2 X Doorman class Heavy Destroyers
30 X T class Torpedo Boats
10 X V class Torpedo Boats