A War of Blood and Steel [Althis|PT|IC|Open]

by **Remnants of Exilvania** » Sat Apr 02, 2022 12:41 pm

A War of Blood and Steel

IC Thread

CO-OP

“This war is a new kind of war. It is warfare in terms of every continent, every island, every sea, every air lane in the world.”

–Franklin D. Roosevelt, February 23rd 1942

Hello and welcome to A War of Blood and Steel, your very average WW2 era nation RP. Well, not quite considering that we're playing with some alternate history and alternate nations here. Either way, let's introduce you all to the setting. It's 1938 and the world's still reeling from the aftereffects of the Great War. Borders have been redrawn, ethnicities displaced, extremist ideologies fanned, independences declared and economies crashed. Now the defeated and the betrayed of the last war rear their heads again, beating the drums of war as they prepare to unleash the ever vaster arsenal of modern weapons they have accrued.

Are you one of the defeated, seeking to reclaim what you have lost? One of the betrayed seeking to right a wrong? An opportunist seeing their time to shine? A neutral hoping to survive the coming mess unscathed? Or a victor hoping to maintain the status quo you have fought for so much? Only you can tell and only you can succeed...or fail.

Roleplay Rules

1. The OP is the god of this roleplay. Their word is law.
2. The Co-OP is a saint. In the absence of the OP, heed his word. Also, no bulli because he really is a saint.
3. All NS Rules apply.
4. No OOC writing in the IC.
5. No godmodding.
6. No metagaming.
7. No flaming.
8. No trolling.
9. No harassment.
10. 1 nation per player.
11. This is alternate history. It is up to you whether you are mostly IRL 1937 Sweden, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania or the Hungarian Soviet Republic. Anything goes. Except fully original nations/concepts like, oh, say, Exilvania.
12. As alternate as the history is, a Great War still happened in the 1910s. It may have lasted for different lengths of time in different parts of the world but it happened. Incorporate it into your nations’ histories. Note, we can't all be winners in this or white peacing losers.
13. We’re still having the late 20s/early 30s economic crisis and accompanying social and political upheaval.

Tech Rules

1. In order to avoid cherrypicking, each nation may only pick one "tech tree" of one IRL nation. You are free to cherrypick as much as you'd like from among that nation's designs but you are stuck with their overall design philosophy. This is to ensure that not everyone ends up fielding the same equipment on the battlefield but also to ensure that people don't need to create extremely detailed lists of domestic equipment and one can, if one so wishes, simply defer to what the nation developed IRL.
2. Because I am aware that like any alt-his RP there will be plenty of nations with much more developed industrial bases and the like than IRL, prototypes are open game, including paper prototypes. Yes, you can bring in wacky World of Tanks things.
3. Because I am aware that likely plenty of nations will be so much more industrialized than whatever IRL tech trees they choose, IRL introduction dates for technology need not necessarily apply. Of course this doesn't mean that you should be bringing Maus tanks into 1938. Rather I'd like you to look at your nation's capabilities and then your nation's neighbours and as such the need for such advanced technologies. I am sure you do not require Panthers if you are surrounded by naught but African tribesmen that still use spears in certain cases.
4. I am aware that there is plenty of co-developed or license-produced equipment IRL that blossomed into equipment later attributed to those producing nations. In the interest of broadening tech trees since, to reiterate, I am quite certain there will be more people with plenty more advanced industries in dire need of domestic designs, these designs will simply become...well...domestic designs of those nations.
5. If you'd like to produce something another nation has, I implore you to ask them OOCly or ICly if you are allowed to license produce it. In rare cases I'd be willing to, if both players agree, move a domestic design from one nation to the other in terms of who came up with it.
6. You may produce or have Great War Era equipment of other nations without asking. This is not a domestic invention of yours but much rather signifies equipment captured, purchased or licensed plenty of time ago. Don’t take this as your excuse to go “every third man a Maxim” or something like that. Keep it realistic.
7. Each IRL nation's tech tree can exist up to two times in this setting. Yes, this will hurt your suspension of disbelief but I am certain enough that it hurts suspension of disbelief just as much when near everyone's undoubtedly large, industrialized and scientifically advanced nation is incapable of funding an R/D department capable of granting you your vision of how your nation's very own extensive arms development goes. And since in an althis setting there are probably more than the 5-7 large nations capable of doing so IRL, it's for the best if we double the number and just do our best to ignore the fact that these independently developed arms just so happen to look and work the same. Side note, a nation always has a claim to its own tech tree, regardless how often it has been given out to others. So basically, even if, say, both Spain and Thailand are running the tech tree of Czechoslovakia, someone playing Czechoslovakia or a nation taking up that space may still claim that tree as their own.
8. In real life at this time there existed 7 nations who had R/D departments and capabilities beyond most of the other nations on the planet. These nations are the USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, UdSSR and Japan. Their tech trees feature a great degree of variety and most of the actually advanced arms technology, which minor nations were struggling due to their smaller sizes and industrial bases. We will call these "Great Power Tech Trees" and ask that you at are at least comparable in terms of population and industrial development to the Great Power whose Tech Tree you seek to claim.

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Sat Apr 02, 2022 5:42 pm

15th January

Prime Minister Announces Investment Project

Prime Minister Hideki Tojo has announced a Two-Years Plan that would consist of massive investments in military infrastructure, mainly in Shina and Manshūkoku. "In order for the Empire to be safe from external predators that seek to claim our lands," the Prime Minister said, "we need to invest heavily in our military infrastructure. This investment shall not only strengthen our military industry, but shall also create thousands of new jobs in the states where the investment will take place." The Prime Minister revealed that the investment will be a joint public-private effort.

"Our plan is to increase the production of tanks and rifles," the Prime Minister clarified. "In the span of the next four years, we aim to double the number of tanks. We also aim to increase the standing ground army by an additional 100,000 troops within the next two years. We need a larger land force to safeguard the borders of our nation and keep the Japanese people safe and secure."

Destroyer Yamagumo Formally Enters Service

The Asashio-class destroyer Yamagumo formally enters service. This destroyer is the sixth of its kind. It exceed 2,000 tons displacement and is equipped with sonar. It is armed with a Fubuki main battery layout of 3 twin mount 12.7 cm/50 Type 3 naval guns, eight Type 93 torpedoes in two quadruple launchers, 16 depth charges and two twin-mount Type 96 AA guns. Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto stated that, "the construction of this awesome destroyer showcases the strength of the Japanese Naval Forces. We have one of the greatest fleets in human history. It should make clear to all that Japan takes the security of the Empire very seriously."

by **Arvenia** » Sun Apr 03, 2022 5:24 am

El Espectador
January 16, 1938

President Alfonso López Pumarejo Announces New Policies
BOGOTÁ - President Alfonso López Pumarejo (PL) has announced new policies that would help quell the social and economic fallout in Gran Colombia just mere months before this year's presidential election.

The following policies are:
1. A new Ministry of Development (Ministerio de Desarrollo) will be formed to formulate, implement and orient housing policy, urban development, water supply and sanitation. It would replace the Ministry of Housing and take over certain positions from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
2. A new Ministry of Welfare (Ministerio de Bienestar) will be formed to coordinate and implement the national policy and social services relating to health and social security. It would replace the Ministry of Healthcare and take over certain positions from the Ministry of Finance.
3. Both the new Ministry of Development and the already-existing Ministry of Transportation would help improve the country's infrastructure.
4. Both social and financial reforms shall be implemented in order to change the current situation.
5. Economic growth shall be increased by supporting smaller businesses and creating newer jobs.
6. Agriculture shall be supported through government subsidies and rural development.
7. Defense spending shall be lowered by 75% in order to spend more on welfare.
8. A new trade agreement shall be signed with the US in regards to the Panama Canal.

Reactions to these policies have been mixed, although the Patriotic Party (Partido Patriótico) were more opposed to them than both the Conservative Party (Partido Conservador) and the Liberal Party (Partido Liberal). The PP has denounced the policies as "capitalist", "weak", "unreliable" and even "treacherous". The PP has been demanding more stronger policies from the current government.

Patriots Demands American Withdrawal From Panama
PANAMA CITY - Members of the Patriotic Party (Partido Patriótico) are currently protesting in Panama City (Ciudad de Panamá), East Panama (Panamá Este). They demand that the US relinquish control of the Panama Canal over to Gran Colombia. They consider the current status quo to be a form of American imperialism and threatens to attack any American if their demands are not met. They are burning US flags and chanting words such as "Death to America" (¡Muerte a América!), "Panama is ours" (¡Panamá es nuestro!) and "Give us back the Panama Canal" (¡Devuélvanos el Canal de Panamá!). So far, the Panama City Police Department (Departamento de Policía de la Ciudad de Panamá) is currently keeping the protesters away from American workers at the Panama Canal, although violence would soon erupt due to the current political situation in Gran Colombia.

To: United States of America
From: Greater Colombian Republic
Subject: Diplomacy
Encryption: High
Dear President John Nance Garner, I congratulate on your victory as the new President of the United States. I would look forward our diplomatic and commercial ties. There have been some heated conflict regarding the Panama Canal, while my country continues to feel the effect of the Great Depression. We would like if we could strenghten our ties so that our countries could be lifted from further crisis. I propose a new trade agreement between our countries. We hope for a brighter future in Latin America.

Atentamente, President Alfonso López Pumarejo

by **Ovstylap** » Sun Apr 03, 2022 11:14 am

Dino Philipson smiled to his secretary as she stood to greet him, and exchanged his coat for the day's papers. "It's set to be an eventful day Miss Zicari, I hope that you're feeling well despite the weather?"
Patting some of the ice from the coat she now held, Miss Zicari reached up to the coat on a nearby coat stand. "I made it just five minutes before the snow, but I am well, thank you. You have a meeting with Mr Colorni at ten this morning, I received a phone call just after you left yesterday."
Dino stopped for a moment, already scanning the first headlines, and smiled. "Ah wonderful, I'll have a look at Eugenio's work now then, I always find the Avanti a well-written paper, despite its overt socialism. Nonetheless, we need to be vigilant with the fascists trying to gain political attention, and who better to bring light to their darkness than the socialists?" Dino paused, and looked at his secretary, who was smiling politely, but was beginning to fidget. "I apologise, I'm starting my political ramblings already, and it's only quarter past nine! I'll let you see to your work Miss Zicari, do send Eugenio straight in."

He entered into his office, taking a seat behind the oaken table and briefly looked out of the window, admiring the snow gently falling outside. He turned to the newspapers, and shuffled through them, to the Avanti. Eugenio Corlorni, the philosophy teacher from the University of Trieste, was increasingly getting involved with the paper, and it wouldn't have surprised Dino if he saw his colleague as an editor within a year or two at most.

Avanti!

Fascists arrested in Naples, Protests in Montenegro!

January 14th, 1938

With less than three months until the national elections for 1938 on March 5th, we must be ever more aware of the growing determination in some circles to see the National Fascist Party gain greater political influence. On Tuesday, some seven members of the National Fascist Party were arrested for physically accosting the Mayor of Naples and a number of members of the local government. Benito Mussolini has been quoted as saying that 'allegations of members of the National Fascist Party have been acting as thugs are unfounded, and that in any great national movement there are always infiltrators and overly-agitated members who either deliberately, or under their own misdirected initiative, seek to advance political goals in an unofficial and unsanctioned manner.'

This attempt to belittle the story before it even hit the pre-Weekend headlines is utterly undermined by the fact that over the last three months, more members of the National Fascist Party have been arrested for political crimes or public disorder than of the combined total of any other party. Avanti continues to reveal these incidents, and will continue to do so. Despite its flaws, Avanti, and any sensible socialist believes in the preservation of a political system which will not so blatantly misguide the working classes- the urban proletariat, the factory workers, and the rural tenant farmers who make the country work, as a fascist system would. Anti-Fascism must be the first priority in working towards a socialist future for the country!

However, all cannot be said to be well with our current government. Socialist comrades in Montenegro have been sending photographs and letters to our publishers, revealing the extent of anti-Italian sentiment in the country. Although the Italian government continues to claim that Montenegro is a sovereign and independent country which they are assisting, in order to guarantee its security, the citizens of the nation can see through the lies. Montenegrins of many backgrounds signed a petition to have Italian soldiers removed from the country, with over 150,000 signatures between September and the New Year.

We join the people of Montenegro in calling on the government to change its policies in Montenegro, and to allow the nation to make its own choices, as a truly sovereign nation should. If the Italian government cannot ensure that this happens, then there is every danger that Serbian nationalists may mobilize against the current Montenegrin administration, alongside actors of other backgrounds. Should such a situation arrive, many innocent lives, including Italian lives, will be endangered. As such, we call upon our readers to join us in our efforts against the government's current foreign policy!

Taking a few moments to digest the paper, Dino leant back and sighed. He was looking forward to see Eugenio, that was for sure, but in Italy itself there was an ongoing current of change, despite the season, and even as he considered the situation of other countries in the world, still reeling from the economic fallouts of the Great Depression, and the political fall outs of the extremists and illiberal who capitalized on the public's fear, he wasn't excited for the year ahead. The best he could hope for was that at least a somewhat liberal, and still democratic Italy might keep its political system intact for the elections ahead, and that the nation might preserve its international neutrality.

Without a doubt, the coming months would be most interesting, most interesting indeed...

by **Countesia** » Sun Apr 03, 2022 12:51 pm

Melchor de Mencos
Petén Department
State of Guatemala

Without any clouds to shield its rays, the sun beat down heavily on the large procession that had assembled at the border between the State of Guatemala and Belize. Five hundred soldiers and a small delegation of politicians surrounded by a swarm of civilians and photographers stood almost silent. Across the border, a smaller procession from Belize had also assembled. After a mere six months of independence the former colony of British Honduras, now calling itself Belize in all official documents issued by its government, had appealed to the Federal Congress in San Salvador for admission into the Federal Republic of Central America. Their reasons for doing were not too dissimilar from the main driving force that first founded the Central American States; the looming threat of foreign ambition. A majority of the negotiations had been drawn up behind closed doors, the ceremony today was largely for show.

As the clock hit the hour, the military orchestra from the Central American delegation began their show to mark the beginning of the event. This combined with the applause from the crowd that had assembled to witness the occasion was the cue that President Ernesto Bolivar was waiting for to break away from his own group of politicians. He made his way towards the ranks of soldiers amassed before him, who without looking stepped to the side in unison to create a pathway for him to cut through. With a trademark air of confidence he strode through the soldiers and towards the invisible boundary between the two nations. The former governor of Belize, Prime Minister Sir Alan Cuthbert Maxwell Burns, emerged in a similar fashion. The two men walked towards each other for a moment before meeting at the exact divide between their nations. They clasped hands as cheers intensified from both sides of the borders.

From the Belize side of the border, a group of men ran towards the two leaders carrying two chairs and a small table. They set up the furnishings before returning to their side of the border as quickly as they came. From the Central American side, Vice President Diego Carreon came forward with the copy of the declaration that would formally admit Belize into the Federal Republic of Central America. It also outlined promises of massive investment from the federal government to bring the dated infrastructure of the once unimportant colony up to standards of the rest of the nation, and the integration and modernisation of the relatively miniscule Belizean army into the ranks of the rest of the army.

The two men took their seats as the vice president laid the contract down for Sir Alan to read, even though he had read at least a dozen drafts, he still read the declaration to see if it still included the promises he had been given. Content with the terms, he took the fountain pen that Diego had offered him and signed the contract. He slid the document to Ernesto who did the same. After a few minutes of chatter, the two men stood up with document in hand. Alongside the Vice President, the three men stood as flashes erupted from cameramen from both sides of the border. First they posed for the Central American photographers, then for the Belizean photographers.

It was a momentous day, as it marked the first territorial acquisition of the Federal Republic of Central America since its founding, and now had brought all central American nations minus Columbian and American controlled panama into the fold. It also meant that the nation had acquired almost three hundred thousand new souls under its banner, including a considerable European, African Creole, Chinese and Indian minority. With the divide between the nations now removed, the two possessions began to mingle in celebration.

by **Intermountain States** » Sun Apr 03, 2022 4:07 pm

The National Times
Published January 17th, 1938

Security increased in Panama Canal

Balboa, Panama Canal Zone
Governor Clarence S. Ridley of the Panama Canal Zone mobilized the Canal Zone Police in response to threats from Gran Colombia's Patriotic Party in a recent protest in Panama City. An increase in troop security was also ordered and all American nationals living in Colombia were advised to take safety precautions to minimize potential assaults from gangbangers.

"We hope to cooperate with Colombian police in regards to the threats made by radicals against American citizens," Ridley stated in a recent press conference from Balboa. "Our main priority is to protect American nationals in Gran Colombia from any assaults."

At the request from Governor Ridley, President Garner ordered detachments of both the Atlantic and the Pacific Fleet to be sent to the Panama Canal Zone to reinforce troop presence until the threats die down.

"The United States will not take threats made to her citizens lightly," President Garner said. "The Panama Canal Zone remains under American sovereignty as a result of the Hay–Bunau-Varilla Treaty of 1903 and we will not abandon American territory from idle threats."

Department of Defense to eye the south for new military bases

Moacon, Georgia

Secretary of War Henry Stimson announced plans to construct new military bases for the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps in southern states as part of President Garner's plans in bringing much needed infrastructure and capital to the Southern United States and to continue the national economic recovery. According to Stimson, warm sunny weather of the South proved to be ideal environments to construct new army camps and airbases. New shipyards were to be built along the Gulf Coast and in the Chesapeake Bay.

In addition, major defense contractors announced constructions of factories and plants across the southern states with some interests taken in the Dallas-Forth Worth Area in Texas. It is estimated that the new bases and industries would provide the southern states billions of dollars in capita and a large boost in population. Southern politicians welcomed the decision made by the federal government as ways to provide much needed economic development to the poorest region of the country.

RKO and Disney set date for rerelease of Snow White

Los Angeles, California

Walt Disney Production's Snow White and the Seven Dwarves premiered at the Carthay Circle Theatre on December 21, 1937 to standing ovations at its completion. Three weeks later on the first few weeks of New Years, it opened at the Radio City Music Hall in New York City and the Golden Age Theatre in Miami with strong box office sales. Walt Disney's animated motion picture quickly became a major hit, with producer Walt Disney himself and his seven dwarves appearing on the cover of Times Magazine.

Due to the strong showings in selected theatres, Walt Disney Production and major film distributor, RKO Radio Pictures announced rerelease of the film to general audience. Currently, plans are made for a February 4th release date nationwide with international release happening a few days to weeks later depending on locations.

To: President Alfonso López Pumarejo of the Republic of Gran Colombia
From: United States Department of State

To Mr. President, his Senior Excellency,

It is preferable that diplomacy is the first action taken between the United States and Gran Colombia. While war is the last thing we want, America must look out for the safety of her citizen across the world. In regards to diplomacy, we are open to having representatives between the two great nations of the Americas to meet in regards to strengthening diplomatic ties and negotiating on our current economic relations.

With regards,
Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby for President John Nance Garner of the United States of America

by **Chedastan** » Sun Apr 03, 2022 8:05 pm

17th January

Unification Day Celebration, Vilnius

The 17th anniversary since the bloody struggle for Unification in Ostland was once again celebrated on Gediminas Avenue in the Old Town part of the Capital on a cold and dry January morning as a military parade marched into the central artery of the city. Being attended by not only a steadily growing number of patriots for the fledging state (at least comparative to years prior), but also to socialites and investors that had begun to benefit both in social standing and financially through the Ostland Project once more with their investments beginning to pay off finally after years of economic slumber following the Great Depression. The Concord having long been seen as a safe haven among a sea of radicals in recent years having helped contributed to that assessment, with the country having been seen as a beacon of sorts in spite of any rising tensions within Europe.

And now additionally the Victory March was seen by certain military analysts attending as a clear showcase of what Ostland wanted to show-off as a clear signal to its ambitions both tactfully and strategically, as being able to defend itself both internally and externally from incursions from both the West and East neighboring regions, the Ministry of Defense being rather deliberate in purposely not naming a specific country the Concord is most concerned for at this current moment in terms of preemptive plans for national defense (Though any amateurish expert for the region could've guessed on who).

With an air wing of biplane fighters flying over head, and a fresh showcasing of recent models for the T-36 Light Tank (Tankas Modelis 1936.) treading along the paved road. Alongside boots marching in synchronization as soldiers sporting Stahlhelms and Ostland licensed-built Mausers and M-18s had preceded down the main street. It had shown to any foreign observers present too that Ostland's military apparatus had seen much improvement and standardization over the past 17 years, being now a far cry to its rugged partisan invested days where the 'military' if you could call it that at the time, was scavenging any equipment it could get it hands on. For once the FT-17s were finally laid to rest after years of service as a glorified series of parade floats.

As the festivities were still ongoing for Unification Day, President Antanas Merkys was already in his office and collaborating with his Prime Minister, Michał Pius Römer, on working to hash out what they both considered to be a straightforward plan for the worst case scenario, that being a full-frontal invasion of Ostland proper from both the Socialists and Russia. President Merkys was adamant that such a conflict was likely to occur within the next 2 to 3 years given the current state of regional politics, however certain elements of the Ostland's Parliament were quick to call him out as being irrationally paranoid, despite any justified concerns he had possessed, regardless some clear arms deals were to be made in order to reinforce the proactive defensive stance that Ostland under Merkys demanded to be done in short order.

To: The Office of Foreign Affairs in the Danubian Confederation
From: The Ministry of Defense of the Ostland Concord

We speaking for the Presidency and Parliamentary of the Concord, desire for a renewed trade of arms in what we have deemed to be a ansewer for a calculated concern in the region of Eastern Europe. As we anticipate a buildup upon our borders by Socialist elements, we would like to humbly request a new purchase of the Danube's state of the art light tanks, and its plethora of anti-tank and artillery arms if available. In exchange for whatever monetary price the Confederation deems it in these uncertain times ahead of us.

by **Arvenia** » Mon Apr 04, 2022 4:01 am

October 7, 1918
Argonne Forest, France
There were no more quiet. No more peace. Nothing. There was nothing but the sound of gunfire and screaming. Enrique García Martínez, a young recruit in the Greater Colombian Army (EGC), was sitting down in the hollow under a tree root somewhere in the Argonne Forest. He is shivering in fear due to the constant fighting in the area between his forces and the Germans. In front of him was one of his comrades who was killed by German artillery. The dead body was messed up. It was raining and the ground is getting dirtier. Enrique was clinging on to his Sulívar M1910 rifle while the rain was pouring down on him. The rain drenched his uniform and he wanted to go home, but neither General Juan Díaz Ortega nor the Gran Colombian government would permit that. He then imagines that it was quiet and drowned out the sound of gunfire. Once he managed to drown out the sound, he steps out of the hollow and takes a careful walk through the forest. As he walks slowly through the forest, there was mayhem everywhere. He passed by dead bodies lying on the ground. There were dead Colombians and dead Germans, as well as some dead Frenchmen. The trees were totally destroyed and lacked leaves due to constant destruction by artillery. Some trees were a bit engulfed in flames as if a wildfire was taking place. Enrique turned around to take a look at the surrounding areas in order to see if there is anyone out there. He thinks the coast is clear and he proceeds to walk forward while looking for a way back to his unit.

Suddenly, something came running towards him while screaming inaudibly from a distance. As he turned around, he is immediately confronted by a charging soldier from the German Army. The German was furious and charged at Enrique with a Gewehr 98. The rifle was fitted with a bayonet. The German's face was filled with pure rage as he ran towards an unaware Enrique.

"STERBEN!!!", the German screamed as he ran towards Enrique. Enrique was able to dodge the attack, but fell down in the process. The German looked around, saw Enrique and proceeded to stab him with the rifle bayonet. Enrique was forced to break his hands free off his rifle and grab the barrel. Once the barrel is grabbed tightly, the bayonet was an inch away from Enrique's throat. He struggled to keep the bayonet away from him as the German was hellbent on killing him and shouting at him at the same time. "WARUM BIST DU NICHT EINFACH, DU BRAUNER SCHEISSE?!" Even though Enrique did his best to stay alive, the German was almost strong enought to kill him due to Enrique being just 18 and the German being much older than him. The struggle was too much for Enrique that he closes his eyes as he expects death to arrive.

Just as he was about to die, Enrique hears a distant voice screaming: "¡¡¡ALÉJATE DE MI AMIGO, BASTARDO ALEMÁN!!!"

Suddenly, the German is violently pinned down by another soldier who is armed with a bayonet-fitted Sulívar M1910 rifle. That rifle's bayonet struck the German in the throat so hard that it began to bleed once the German fell to the ground and gurgled out blood from his mouth. The mysterious soldier then proceeds to draw the rifle out of the German's throat and then shot him dead in the head. The soldier turned around and saw Enrique, who was still lying on the ground and holding onto the German's rifle while his own rifle lies two inches away. The soldier walked towards him and reaches out his hand to him.

"Soldado Enrique García Martínez", the soldier said. "Where the hell have you been to?" The soldier, who had a moustache and was very big, was none other than Second Sergeant Guillermo Perez, an older man from the 5th Infantry Division (Quinta División de Infantería del Ejército Gran Colombiano). Enrique was still holding onto the German rifle, so Guillermo grabbed Enrique by the uniform and pulled him up fast. "Let go of that rifle. It isn't even yours. Your rifle is lying two inches there." Enrique drops the German rifle and picks up his own rifle. Both men are then joined up by the rest of Guillermo's unit. The unit were about four soldiers, three of which were armed with their M1910s, while the fourth is armed with a M1897 shotgun. "Answer me, Martínez. Why did you abandon your own unit?"

"I... I... I...", Enrique struggled to talk due to the horrors of war. "I... I..."

"Comandante", one of the soldiers said to Guillermo. "I don't think he is in the mood to talk..."

"¡Silencio!", Guillermo said immediately. "I want to hear his answer before we move on." Before he can repeat the question to Enrique, more gunfire and artillery is heard from a distance, thus signalling to the men that their comrades need help. "Shit, we need to get back to our comrades. The Germans are charging at us like rabid dogs. Get over here, Enrique!" Enrique, Guillermo and the other soldiers began walking throughout the forest in order to find their comrades.

As they walked into an open field, violence was raging on between the Colombian troops and their German foes. Artillery shells were pouring down on both sides as gunfire was exchanged.

"Soldados", Guillermo said. "We need to get back quickly before we get killed. Do you copy?"

"¡Sí, Comandante!", all the soldiers said in unison. Enrique didn't respond.

"Enrique!", Guillermo shouted to him. "Do you copy?!" However, the battle was raging on like a madhouse that Guillermo was forced to focus on returning back to the other Colombian troops. "Fuck this shit, let's just run!" They all began running through gunfire and explosions. They ran like gazettes running away from lions. Enrique, on the other hand, wasn't so fast and he quickly tripped over a rock.

Guillermo and his unit made it back to another unit in the EGC. There were Colombian troops firing artillery cannons at the German Army. Guillermo went over to a commanding officer.

"Comandante", Guillermo said. "We came back just as you wanted us to do."

"Excelente", the commanding officer said. However, he looked suspicious at Guillermo. "Where is the young soldier you were supposed to bring back?"

"Excuse me?", Guillermo asked confusingly.

"The young soldier who is among the high school graduates we recruited back home for this war", the commanding officer clarified. "Where is he?" Guillermo looked around and then at his unit before realizing that Enrique might still be out there in the battlefield.

"¡Mierda!", Guillermo said before he began running away towards the battlefield. "Enrique is still out there! That dumb kid is still out there! Get him back here!" Guillermo's unit and other Colombian troops followed suit.

"Colegiales de mierda", one of the accompanying troops muttered to himself loud.

Enrique lied on the ground as he looked around. He rose up and saw to his horror that he was in the middle of a battlefield. He was very terrified of being killed, especially by a German soldier. He didn't want to have another ordeal and began to run, but he didn't know where to run. He held on to his rifle and began running like a lonely gazette. He ran in fear and panicked like an asylum inmate. There were too many gunshots and bombings around him that he hid behind a lonely tree.

Far away, Guillermo and the other Colombian soldiers ran through smoke and fire as they sought out to bring back Enrique. At the same time, they also opened fire at any German soldier they saw.

"Enrique!", Guillermo shouted as they ran like rhinos who were charging at their predatory enemies in self-defence. Soon, the troops were eventually stuck in a battle as the German counter-offensive increased, thus they were all caught in the middle of the battlefield. Then, many of them were killed off and some began spreading out to seek out better spots to shot down Germans from. Guillermo was even forced to fight the Germans.

Enrique decided to crawl his way out of the battlefield without being killed. He crawled all the way without being seen. However, the gunfire was so intense that he was forced to sit up and look around. He can then hear Guillermo shouting: "¡VEN A MI, ESCORIA ALEMANA!"

That was when Enrique saw Guillermo fighting off numerous German soldiers by either shooting them, slicing them or even hitting them with the buttock of his rifle. Enrique looked at Guillermo from a distance and walked slowly towards him. But then, Guillermo trips and falls backwards. He still manages to gun down numerous German soldiers before having to reload. That was when Enrique saw a German soldier taking a chance at killing Guillermo by aiming at him with a Gewehr 98. Enrique, panicked by the sighting, takes up his rifle, aims and fires a single shot at the German, killing him instantly. Guillermo was confused and looked from behind to see Enrique aiming his rifle out of fear and necessity. Guillermo was shocked at how Enrique saved him from a certain death. The bullet struck the German right in his left eye and through his brain. Enrique was equally shocked over having killed another human being.

"Pequeño bastardo", Guillermo laughed as he looked at Enrique. "Ven aqui." Enrique hurried over and picked Guillermo up from the ground. "Don't run away or stay behind again. We will be going home after this. Do you undestand?"

"Si", Enrique responded.

"Bueno", Guillermo said as they walked back out of the battlefield. On their way, however, they saw a Colombian medic who has been badly wounded. Guillermo hurried over to the medic. "Shit, what happened?"

"I... I... Got... Sho...", the medic tried to say as he struggled with his injuries. Guillermo looked through the medic's equipment for some first aid kit.

"Enrique, come over here and help", Guillermo ordered Enrique. Enrique walked over to the medic and begins to grab some equipment that might help stabilize the medic. "Okay, we will patch up your injuries. Stay awake. This will be quick."

Just as they try to help the medic, Enrique could hear another artillery cannon firing another shell into the air. As he turned his attention towards the sky, he could see an artillery shell flying from east. Panic starts to slowly rise within him as he sees the shell approaching. Suddenly, the shell was coming much more closer and is about to land on him, Guillermo and the medic. As the shell approached its target, Enrique panicked and tries to warn Guillermo. However, it was too late. The shell struck both Guillermo and the medic pretty hard. The explosion also struck Enrique and sent him flying across the battlefield. He landed pretty hard on the ground and was immediately injured. He was so badly injured that his eyes were about to close. He began to lose sight as he moaned in the process and watched the battle raging on. Then, his eyes were closing slowly and repeatedly. All sound then began to fade as his eyes shut for one last time.

January 17, 1938
EGC Office, Caracas, Caracas Canton, Venezuela, Gran Colombia
An eyepatch-wearing Enrique quickly woke up from his desk after having experienced an apparent nightmare. However, the nightmare was actually a flashback. Enrique was in an office in Caracas, the state capital of Venezuela, and it was January 17, 1938. On his desk was a vintage fan, some newspapers, some photos, a telephone, a radio and a bottle of tequila. The radio was blasting some calm Latin music. On the walls was a map of South America. Also in the room was the Gran Colombian flag. Enrique looked around and then at his hands. However, only his right hand was fine, while his left hand is covered in bandage. As it turns out, the artillery shell that struck Enrique had caused him to suffer severe injuries. They were so severe that his mobility was greatly weakened and his left eye was completely blinded, which explains why he now has an eyepatch covering his left eye. Back in the present, Enrique was looking at an issue by El Espectador from January 16, 1938. He then tossed the newspaper down to the ground and took a look at some photos on the desk. There were a picture of Guillermo Perez, a picture of Enrique's graduation class and some pictures of Enrique's family. He then took another look at Guillermo and reminiscing about something. He remembered the Great War and thought of its horrors. He despised the war. He despised everything that had to do with it. He thought to himself:

"Why did my friends and I have to fight in the war? Why didn't the Americans take our place in the war? Why did many Colombians have to die in Europe? Why have many dead Colombians still not come home from the war?"

These thoughts drove him insane as he drank up his tequila. He then spent the rest of the day cleaning his personal M1911 pistol with a towel. It also seems that he is now a lieutenant colonel in the EGC, having mostly refused to be discharged following his recovery near the end of the Great War.

by **Remnants of Exilvania** » Mon Apr 04, 2022 11:33 am

Kingdom of Hungary
Budapest
17th of January,1938

"And you are certain, Prime Minister Károlyi, that you wish to resign?"

, a weary voice growled from the armchair next to the fireplace. The chair had been turned towards the fire, letting its occupant bask in its warmth as winter ragedoutside, with Prime Minister Károlyi remaining at the very edge of the light emanated by the fire, maintaining a polite distance from his old friend and current Regent...though it appeared ludicrous, by all accounts, to keep up the entire appearance of a monarchy by this point, with Hungary so clearly having become but a simple dictatorship. But then again, the backers of the regime were traditionalists and conservatives, they preferred this facade.

He cleared his throat and loosened his collar a little before replying:

"Yes, my regent. As we both know, I am but an interim Premier, due to Prime Minister Gömbös' sudden death and I am afraid the pressure of the office is too much at my advanced age."

There was silence in the room for a while, broken only by the cracking of the wood in the fire as the flames consumed it greedily, like the fires of war had consumed Europe once before and might very well again. Only after a whole did the Regent reply:

"Very well, I accept your resignation but must ask you to remain in office as caretaker untill a new Prime Minister can be found. Do you have any recommendations regarding your successor?"

An entire series of potential candidates flipped through Károlyi's mind at that question, each of them dismissed as quickly as the next. They were all too neutral, too...unfit for the unique challenges ahead of Hungary. He eventually settled on someone whom he figured was the best candidate for the next years at the very least.

"I believe Béla Imrédy would be a good choice, my regent. He served with the Gömbös government and as such knows what directions ex-Prime Minister Gömbös intended to take. He also has a sizeable following among the right wing factions which would be most helpful, given our current encirclement by communist nations. With him as Prime Minister, we would likely be able to turn the situation around and surround the communist forces instead."

"So you mean for us to follow the road into totalitarianism and align ourselves with similar powers beyond our borders to secure our continued existence and ambition? Are you certain of this, Count? What of the monarchy and the public opinion if we were to spit on it so openly?"

, came the immediate reply, the scenario clearly having been one that the regent had thought about a lot himself. Of course he had. Károlyi had also spent many long, sleepless nights thinking about it but had come to this very same conclusion.

"Yes, my regent. I am certain that once Imrédy is Prime Minister, he will once again start the search for a new noble to be crowned as King of Hungary, yet will ubdoubtedly leverage his influence to ensure that no proposed noble will pass the parliament's examination. This will undoubtedly strengthen your position as regent in this country and allow you to pass legislature that would allow your son to inherit your title. And once that is the case, it will likely become very simple to eventually have yourself or your son elected as our new monarch, at which point the monarchy is maintained despite our policies."

The armchair creaked as it was pushed over the floor, the broad frame of the 69 year old regent slowly rising from it, his back still turned to Károlyi as he took the poker and used it to poke around in the fire a little, fanning the flames in the process. When the fire burned brightly once more, he turned around, the slightly glowing poker still in his hand as he told the Count:

"Very well, Prime Minister. You may leave. I will make my decision concerning your successor within a week's time and appoint him Prime Minister. In the meantime, please continue to see to all ongoin activities. Have a good night."

"Thank you, my regent."

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Mon Apr 04, 2022 4:41 pm

20th January

Finance Minister Announces Financial Reform

Finance Minister Okinori Kaya has announced a series of financial reforms, which aim to increase government revenues, rationalize the tax system and increase economic growth. The Minister stated that, "the current tax system is far too dependent upon real-property taxation, excessively burdening landowners and failing to utilize the industrial growth the Empire has experienced in the past decades. We need to overhaul and modernize our system, placing a greater emphasis on both the income tax and indirect taxation."

To that effect, property tax will be lowered between 15% and 35%, with the reduction being greater for smaller landowners. As property tax is the main source of funding for the states that make up the Empire, a new tax will be instituted to fund the state governments: a value-added tax, at a rate of 15%. This indirect tax is expected to generate considerable revenue, which state governments will use as they see fit. However, there is an expectation by the central government that state governments shall use the revenue from VAT to invest in local infrastructure and provide stimulus packages to local industries.

Income tax will be rationalized. The current schedular system of taxation will be replaced with a single, progressive income tax with five rates, ranging from 5% to 38%. This is expected to bring additional revenue to state coffers while reducing the tax burden on poorer individuals. A luxury indirect tax shall be instituted on a number of high-end luxury goods, providing the government with an additional soruce of revenue.

The expected increase in government revenue - along with a temporary and reasonable deficit spending - will fund a 50bln stimulus package to support Japanese industry. The stimulus package will take the form of subsidies, with emphasis being given on military manufacturing (particularly rifles and light tanks) and steel production, and targeted tax benefits for corporations. "We firmly believe," the Minister said, "that for the Empire to prosper the public and private sectors must cooperate harmoniously. Government, industrialists and workers are partners in the same project, that of uplifting the Empire." The Minister also stated that he will be providing additional tax benefits to big corporations that raise wages of their workers, to offset the increased cost of such a move. "Social stability," he said, "requires that both industrialists and workers benefit from economic growth."

by **Countesia** » Wed Apr 06, 2022 12:56 pm

OFFICIAL TELEGRAM FROM THE REPÚBLICA FEDERAL DE CENTROAMÉRICA

RECIPIENT: The United States of America
FROM: The Federal Republic of Central American States

To the esteemed and honourable President John Nance Garner

Greetings from the Federal Republic of Central America.
Despite virtually being neighbours on this great continent, it has come to my attention and to that of many members of the Federal Congress, that the United States does not maintain a diplomatic presence within the Central American States. It disheartens that we must communicate through something as impersonal as a telegram instead of face to face like gentlemen should. Therefore, it is in my great interest to invite the United States of America to establish an embassy within the city of San Salvador, the beating heart of our nation.

There is much we would like to discuss.

I hope this communication finds you well. And I equally hope for a timely response.

Yours Sincerely

Presidente del República Federal de Centroamérica

Ernesto Bolivar

by **Tracian Empire** » Thu Apr 07, 2022 6:31 am

Danubian Confederation
Donaubund
Podunajská konfederace

The Kingdoms and Lands Represented in the Imperial Council and the Lands of the Holy Crown of Saint Wenceslas
Die im Reichsrat vertretenen Königreiche und Länder und die Länder der Heiligen Wenzelskrone
Království a země zastoupené v říšské radě a v zemích Svaté koruny svatého Václava

Unteilbar und Untrennbar
Indivisibiliter ac Inseparabiliter
Nedělitelný a Neoddělitelný

Successful first flight of the new A.300 medium bomber prototype of Aero Vodochody

As part of the Law on the Expansion and Modernization of the Imperial and Royal Armed Forces of the Danubian Confederation, the Imperial and Royal Government, last year, issued requirements for a multi-seat, light day and night bomber, assigned the Type IV markings, requirements which were sent to the Confederation's main aircraft factories under Directive 644/1937 of the Imperial and Royal General Staff. Following subsequent negotiations and presentations, the government has contracted Aero Vodochody to develop this new bomber aircraft design, as an improvement of the military variant of the Aero A.304 airplane of which 20 units were acquired last year by the Imperial and Royal Flying Troops. The initial design was apparently envisioned as more of a multi-role aircraft closer to the Type III designation, but following the directive of the Government it was remade to follow the Type IV specifications. The A.300 is said to show much promise and to be comparable if not better than the latest European designs of our age, and it can carry up to 1000kg of bombs. It will be equipped with locally produced twin piston engines and will be crewed by three people.

As of right now, the main bomber aircraft of the Imperial and Royal Flying Troops is the obsolete Bloch MB.200 variant, licensed from the French Republic in 1936. The rapid pace of technological development in the aerial sector means that the k.u.k. Luftfahrtruppen require a new, modern design, and the Imperial and Royal Government have taken this opportunity in order to show the evolution of the Confederation's native aerial industry and its self-sufficiency. As part of the requirements, any competing factories had to come up with designs that favored domestic materials - imported materials could only be used if the Confederation had no domestic production. After the development of a wooden model which was tested aerodynamically in the Aeronautisches Forschungs- und Prüfungsinstitut, the construction of the prototype started in late spring 1937, and the factory has met its deadline of the 14th of January 1938.

This first prototype of the new Aero A.300 bomber has already had its successful first flight earlier today, under the command of test pilot Karel Vanek, in the presence of Alois Eduard Fürst von Schönburg-Hartenstein, Imperial and Royal Minister of War. His Excellency was impressed by the performance of the aircraft and particularly praised its speed, claiming that the prototype is faster than any other aircraft currently in the Confederation's service. Some shortcomings were apparently noted, but Aero is confident that they will be dealt with shortly. Another series of tests will have to be completed, and subsequent testing will also have to be done by the AFPI, but the preliminary reports show very good flight characteristics. The Ministry of War has already ordered the construction of two more prototypes, and it is believed that the results of any future tests will recommend the bomber for an official introduction in the service of the Imperial and Royal Flying Troops.

Danubian Confederation
Donaubund
Podunajská konfederace

The Kingdoms and Lands Represented in the Imperial Council and the Lands of the Holy Crown of Saint Wenceslas
Die im Reichsrat vertretenen Königreiche und Länder und die Länder der Heiligen Wenzelskrone
Království a země zastoupené v říšské radě a v zemích Svaté koruny svatého Václava

Unteilbar und Untrennbar
Indivisibiliter ac Inseparabiliter
Nedělitelný a Neoddělitelný

To His Excellency, the Minister of Defense of the Ostland Concord

The Danubian Confederation views the multi-ethnic and democratic nation of the Ostland Concord with the uttermost respect and admiration, as few governments in the world in these trying times are trying to bring peace, happiness and democracy to their peoples in equal ways. The Danubian Confederation has an intimate understanding of the dangers faced by democratic federations from the specter of bloody socialism, and is ready to stand by and support the Ostland Concord with trade deals of military equipment. We would be able to sell the Concord light tanks of the Panzer 35 model, anti-tank guns of the 3,7cm KPÚV vz. 34 model, the 4cm kanón vz. 36 model and the 3,7cm KPÚV vz. 37 model. Skoda also produces a plethora of artillery models that the Concord could acquire, and any discussion on exact prices will take the economic situation of the Concord into account.

In order to properly negotiate and finalize such a deal, the Confederation would like to send Archduke Karl Albrecht of Austria-Teschen as ambassador plenipotentiary and extraordinary of the Imperial and Royal Government in Vilnius.

Signed by,

Leopold Anton Johann Sigismund Josef Korsinus Ferdinand, Graf Berchtold von und zu Ungarschitz, Frättling und Püllütz, Minister of the Imperial and Royal House and of Foreign Affairs of the Danubian Confederation, in the name of:

His Imperial and Royal Majesty, Charles the First and the Third, By the Grace of God Emperor of Austria, King of Bohemia, King of Jerusalem etc. Archduke of Austria, Duke of Lorraine, Salzburg, Styria, Carinthia, Carniola, the Upper and Lower Silesia; Duke of Modena, Parma, Piacenza, Friuli and Guastalla; of Auschwitz and Zator, of Teschen, of Friuli, of Raguza, and of Zara, Margrave of Moravia, Princely Count of Habsburg and Tyrol, of Kyburg, Gorizia and Gradisca; Prince of Trent and Brixen; Margrave of the Upper and Lower Lusatia and in Istria, Count of Hohenems, Feldkirch, Bregenz, Sonnenberg etc.; Lord of Trieste, of Cattaro and on the Windic March; etc., etc.

Danubian Confederation
Donaubund
Podunajská konfederace

The Kingdoms and Lands Represented in the Imperial Council and the Lands of the Holy Crown of Saint Wenceslas
Die im Reichsrat vertretenen Königreiche und Länder und die Länder der Heiligen Wenzelskrone
Království a země zastoupené v říšské radě a v zemích Svaté koruny svatého Václava

Unteilbar und Untrennbar
Indivisibiliter ac Inseparabiliter
Nedělitelný a Neoddělitelný

To His Excellency, Alberto de' Stefani, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Italy,

The Danubian Confederation and the Kingdom of Italy are both deeply interested in and deeply affected by the political situation in the Balkans, particularly by the effects of Serbian nationalism, which is and has been a blight over the Balkans. The Serbians, through their efforts, have already started a war - the Great War, so it is the duty of the continent's democracies to ensure that peace in the region is maintained. In light of that, I would like to request a meeting with your Excellency in order to discuss the situation of Yugoslavia, particularly that of Croatia, and to accomplish His Imperial and Royal Majesty's wish that the Kingdom of Italy should be informed of the Confederation's plans in the region.

Signed by,

Karl Freiherr von Macchio, Ambassador of the Danubian Confederation in Rome, in the name of:

His Imperial and Royal Majesty, Charles the First and the Third, By the Grace of God Emperor of Austria, King of Bohemia, King of Jerusalem etc. Archduke of Austria, Great Duke of Tuscany, Duke of Lorraine, Salzburg, Styria, Carinthia, Carniola, the Upper and Lower Silesia; Duke of Modena, Parma, Piacenza, Friuli and Guastalla; of Auschwitz and Zator, of Teschen, of Friuli, of Raguza, and of Zara, Margrave of Moravia, Princely Count of Habsburg and Tyrol, of Kyburg, Gorizia and Gradisca; Prince of Trent and Brixen; Margrave of the Upper and Lower Lusatia and in Istria, Count of Hohenems, Feldkirch, Bregenz, Sonnenberg etc.; Lord of Trieste, of Cattaro and on the Windic March; etc., etc.

by **Intermountain States** » Thu Apr 07, 2022 8:51 am

To: President Ernesto Bolivar of the Federal Republic of Central American States
From: United States Department of State

To Mr. President, his Senior Excellency,

The United States of America, along with President John Garner, is honored by the invitation of President Bolivar of the Federal Republic of Central American States to establish official diplomatic presence with the permanent embassy in San Salvador. This will be a step towards modern communication and greater cooperation within the countries of the Americas. Allow us to send in envoys, architects, and engineers to help officiate the invitation of a permanent embassy.

With regards,
Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby for President John Garner of the United States of America

Fort Bliss, Texas
United States of America

Corporal Randall Cooper had that dream about the dead teenager again. While it was not a daily occurrence, it's not something he got used to whenever that nightmare happened.

"This is stupid," he thought to himself. "It wasn't like the kid was some innocent civilian caught in a crossfire, he was an armed red, pointing a gun at me. I was just trying to defend myself by shooting before he did. I shouldn't feel any guilt about this."

No matter how many time Cooper assured himself with that explanation, he just can't shake the feeling that he was just making an excuse to take a man's life. The kid looked to be younger than him, maybe a few months or a year difference in age with no facial hair or anything to make him look like an older man. The fact of the matter is that both Cooper and that rebel were staring at each in the eye and that made both of them hesitate. There is a possibility that both of them would just leave the combat scene and head back to their respective encampments. Maybe the kid would have shoot first. Cooper wouldn't know which possibility was true as he pulled the trigger, killing that kid.

Instinctively, he reached for his bag to take out his rosary bead that his mother gave him on his 13th birthday and begin to recite the Hail Mary a couple of times. His squad mates, most of whom being Protestants, would poke fun at him being raised Catholic but the rosary gave him some comfort. His mother gave him the rosary before she passed away and the rosary was one of his memories of her.

The recital always happen every day after he wakes up from his nightmare and the recital to Mary, Mother of God always make him feel better about the morning. After his recital was over, Cooper returned to his thoughts about the Troubles. It's been around six years since he fought insurgents during the Troubles yet the memories of the uprising was still fresh in his mind. The fighting between communist insurgents and the National Guards in the Midwest, attempted attacks on southern state capitals by far-right militias, and the deployment of the Army to assist the National Guards in affected areas. Cooper was deployed to Pittsburgh and later Chicago when the insurgents became too organized for the National Guards to deal with. Much of the organizers behind the insurgencies were arrested or killed but low-level conflict still continued until 1934 when Congress declared the Troubles to be over and with most of the military returning back to their forts, leaving the police to deal with any localized disturbances occurring now or in the future.

Cooper's thoughts were interrupted by the morning alarms. Putting on his clothes, he joined with the rest of the men in leaving the barracks and for roll call. It was time for breakfast.

by **Empire of Techkotal** » Fri Apr 08, 2022 5:40 am

13th January 1938
Morocco

Morocco under Spanish rule is a prosperous colony with relative stability. The infrastructure has drastically improved under Spanish rule and the Sharia laws were replaced with Spanish laws. While many Spanish settlers came to cultivate the fertile lands of Morocco, the Moroccans only partly profited from the rule. There were only few companies in Moroccan hands and most of the properties were owned by the Spanish. Further discrimination has lead to violent escalation between the natives and the settlers. Especially the Berber tribes were treated harsh, due to them having revolted against the king. They were mistreated and had no rights to a career or to lands. Because of those laws the tribes have risen up again.

Somewhere in the Rif mountainous region

Gun shots echoed from the mountains and fire turned the night to day. The troops of the fort fought hard against the invaders. Berber tribesman clothed in black and dark blue had infiltrated the fort during night and opened the gates for their comrades. The tribesman had rushed in and taken the walls within a few minutes. The surprised garrison was slaughtered and was forced back. The last remnants of the 500 man strong garrison held out at the officers quarters. There 60 men, their officers and their commander made their last stand. Armed with all weapons they could grab in the confusion.

"They are coming again! Prepare yourself soldiers of the empire. We shall fight till the bitter end and never surrender!"

Shouted the commander Rodrigo over the sound of steel meeting steel.

The Berbers were armed with a plethora of weapons from bows, spears and sabers to old guns from the first world war. The Spanish soldiers had problems fighting against these melee weapons in the narrow space of the officers quarters. They were being pushed back further and further, while the fire spread all around them and cut off their escape route.

"Commander we have to surrender. We are running low on ammunition and there are to many wounded here."

Said his close friend and officer Faziq a Moroccan. He was badly wounded and its seemed like many soldiers had indeed run out of ammunition.

"A Spanish soldier shall never surrender to these barbarians. Stand strong! There is no way back. There is only the way forward. Soldiers of Spain follow me together to survival and justice. Vanquish the enemy and come with me. Charge!"

18th January 1938
Morocco, Marrakesh

Sultans Palace

General Franco Francisco approached the hall. Right before him the two guards clad in old armor opened the doors to the Sultans throne room. Before him was Sultan Abdellah. He sat there on a bunch of pillows. In front of him was a bowl filled with fruits and a hookah. Franco saluted the Sultan and then hurried over to him. Kneeling in front of him and speaking hastily.

"Sultan the Berber have revolted again. They want their independence and have taken extreme measures to attain there goals. Forts and patrols have been attacked in the Rif region in the north. They have attacked villages, plantations, churches and a few factories. There are reports of civilians being slaughtered and property being burned down. The local Regulares troops are to few in number to stop the enemy. Please consider asking his majesty for help."

The Sultan looked slightly troubled, but then called for a servant.

"Mohammed bring this general to our telegraph station and let him send a telegram to Madrid."

20th January 1938
Spain Madrid

The Royal Palace

"Unbelievable......how dare these barbarian heretics attack our troops. This is outrageous. We have done everything we could to bring stability, peace and prosperity to them and this is how they thank us for it. By god some one has to teach them manners and respect. Tell General Franco, that those uncivilized Berber's have to be eradicated once and for all."

Shouted his majesty Louis III in rage.

The Berber tribes had recently attacked forts in the mountainous Rif region and slaughtered the local garrison. They started to actively hunt white people in Morocco and claimed to fight for justice and Independence. Hundreds of good soldiers and thousands of civilian were dead with thousands more missing. The public was outraged and the government was forced to respond in the only way a colonial Overlord can respond to an unwilling colony: with force. The empire is set for war.

After several wine glasses later his majesty had calmed himself. The royal decree was prepared an his secretary waited for his majesty.

"Marcos I will dictate the royal decree to you now"

Said his majesty to the secretary, while opening the second wine bottle.

" Here by I as king of Spain and Portugal, king Morocco, Angola and Mozambique declare that, from this day on the Spanish empire is at war with the Berber tribesman and that we shall drive them out once and for all. All friendship shall be broken. Every man and women who see a Berber are ordered to kill that Berber immediately. The Tercio de Extranjeros are here by ordered to mobilize and land in Morocco. No expense shall be spared no weapon is to unethical for we shall completely eradicate these barbarians from this World which we both inhabit.
All citizens and loyal subjects of the king in Morocco are to help the Tercio's in every way they can. Once this is all over the people who have suffered shall regain there lands and be compensated by the state.

His majesty king Louis III

After a while his majesty sat down at a chair at the table. The generals were all slightly drunk wine had spilled on the strategic map of Morocco. His majesty ordered a servant to fetch more wine and another to find the chancellor and bring him to the kings office. During the absence of the servants the king did what he could do best. He played cards with his generals, while drinking and ordering his generals to drink with him.

A few minutes later....

Dámaso Berenguer arrived at the palace. He had gotten an urgent call from his majesty, but judging from the unhappy look of the servant his majesty was drunk again. The kings office was a mess. Drunken generals lied on the ground, while the old geezers of the general staff continued to play cards. His majesty currently on a winning streak was distracted by Berenguer's entering. He immediately turned to the chancellor and told him the reason for his call.

"I have called you here hic*, because I have a very important hic* task for you. Here are several messages I would like you to hic* deliver. They might be a bit undiplomatic, but that's hic* what I have you for. Edit them and send them away."

His majesties secretary gave him a few messages.

by **Ovstylap** » Fri Apr 08, 2022 9:47 am

Alberto de' Stefani's Residence, Friday, January 21, 1938, 20:59

The Prime Minister of Italy, Alberto de' Stefani, released a deep sigh of satisfaction as he lent back in his office chair. As he took a sip from his half-glass of red wine, a 1922 Merlot, the clock chimed nine. It had been a long, but satisfying day. The morning had primarily consisted of cabinet meetings, which once again the king had chosen not to attend, instead he had spent that time with various military officers, discussing military procurement and current military theory. At least he had done something productive, Alberto thought to himself, pleased with the light body of the wine.

Shortly before lunch, after many cups of coffee had been drank, notes written, telegraphs arranged, and agreements reached, the results of the cabinet meeting had been read back to the room by his secretary Cino Valenza. Beginning in February a National Census would be prepared, which would be launched in mid-March. A public information campaign would be approved by the end of the first week of February, in order to encourage the population to provide completely honest information. The propaganda would focus on notions of an honest census resulting in fairer taxes and public services throughout the country, whilst also threatening fines for deliberate dishonesty.

The Census would assess factors such as the distribution of wealth and current taxation levels across the country, as well as demographic distributions regarding age, gender, faith, ethnicity, and language. The idea was that the Census' completion and review, to be completed in 1939, would provide a framework for a rational and highly effective taxation system, as well as for the distribution of public services. Such a census would be the most substantial in Italian history, and its possible success would be a highlight of Stefani's political career.

Other elements of discussion had seen the widespread agreement that it was in the Italian interest to advance a collaborative policy with the Danubian Confederation, particularly regarding the issues of Serb nationalism. There was some concern that the mention of Croatia posed the possibility of a Danubian invasion of Yugoslavia, which might involve Italian participation, in the coming years, and it was collectively agreed that Italy could not afford to enter into another war until at least 1940, due to the great expense of current investments in Aviation, as well as the cumulative expenditures since the Montenegrin intervention. As such, a meeting with the Danubian ambassador Karl Freiherr von Macchio would be arranged for after the weekend.

The afternoon had seen various duties in the Italian Parliament, as well as a royal summons to discuss a telegram which had been addressed to the King from Spain. Alberto sighed again, finishing his Merlot, as he thought about the Spanish telegram. It had only come through in the early hours of this morning, and was remarkably brief for the severity of the topics covered. Still, by the time he awoke in the morning, the telegram to Spain would probably have already had some initial discussion about it, and a reply could probably be expected after the weekend.

by **Padanarem** » Fri Apr 08, 2022 9:15 pm

THE GLOBE AND MAIL
Friday, January 29 1938

PM UNVEILS AMBITIOUS PLAN TO BRING CANADIAN GOODS TO THE WORLD

From Parliament Hill
Prime Minister King announced a new economic initiative yesterday, aimed at boosting Canadian exports. The Open Trade Initiative will seek to reduce trade barriers with friendly nations around the world. In his speech in the House of Commons the PM said, “Canada must fully accept the mantle of the British tradition bestowed upon us these past 10 years. This includes a commitment to free and open lanes of trade and exchange”. Supporters of the proposal argue that it will help the ailing mining and logging industries while also forge new partnerships around the globe. The Conservative-Restoration Party came out in opposition. One spokesman told this reporter that the Tories take issue with the proposal saying it will harm Canadian manufacturers. Also adding that it “leaves Canada exposed to communist infiltration”… Continued on A3

TRAGIC INJURY FOR THE CANADIENS

Montreal Forum
The Canadiens faced off against the Blackhawks last night in Montreal. During the game, all-time great, Howie Morenz suffered a horrible injury when he was checked into the boards. The Canadiens’ centre broke 4 bones in his leg. A noise from the injury could be heard throughout the Forum… Continued on C1

DUCHESS OF GLOUCESTER TO CHRISTEN SS WINDSOR

Halifax
Halifax Shipyards Ltd. is set for the launch of their vessel, the SS Windsor. Laid down 18 months ago with the backing of British expat and shipping heir Sir John Ellerman, the Windsor will be one of the largest bulk carriers in the world. The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester will be in attendance with Princess Alice performing the christening… Continued on B4

COMMITTEE OF JOINT CHIEFS REPORT TO THE IMPERIAL WAR MINISTRY

To the Right Honorable Minister Ian Allister Mackenzie,

Upon conclusion of the Quebec Shield exercises it is determined that obsolescence across the services is reaching critical levels. Enclosed are white papers prepared by the armed services detailing necessary changes to increase the readiness of the Canadian and Imperial Force. This report will show clearly that years of neglect in areas of procurement and R&D have degraded our military capabilities to a 13 year low.

The CRAF is a point of particular capability gaps. Planners anticipate that air power will be needed to secure victory in any upcoming conflict. The assessment of the Committee is that military expenditures will need to be doubled over the next two years to meet readiness objectives…

His Majesty’s Cabinet of the Dominion of Canada

To his Excellency Minister-President Masaryk of the Danubian Confederation,

Canada extends its admiration of you and your country from across the Atlantic. Though we found ourselves on opposing sides of the past War I think we can both see that we now share common cause. The Danubian Confederation’s commitment to reshaping itself and the continent in the name of liberty, democracy and prosperity is admirable. Not only is such an endeavor noble in its own right but it deserves extra respect and support now that the continent is so fraught with uncertainty. His Majesty’s Government is interested in opening diplomatic talks with your nation in regards to a possible economic agreement between us. Our strategy is two-fold: re-forge stronger engagement with Europe, our cultural progenitors, and break down trade barriers that has so crippled international exchange this decade. Canada would like to open discussions with the Danubian Confederation on the arranging of an Open Trade Zone that may eventually be expanded to all democratic nations. We look forward to a brighter future for our two nations.

Signed,
The Right Honourable William Lyon Mackenzie King, Prime Minister

His Majesty’s Cabinet of the Dominion of Canada

To President John Nance Garner of the United States of America,

Canada would like to express interest in hosting a conference within the next few months between our two nations. It is in our view that as the world emerges from the recent economic turbulence of this decade that international engagement will be of critical importance to prosperity. Since the end of the Great War the fire of liberty has dimmed in Europe. North America is now the steward of that flame. Cooperation between our nations is essential, as threats lurk on the international scene. Areas of discussion at this conference will be the following:
Mutual National Objectives
Threat Identification and Response Strategies
Potential Military-Industrial Cooperation Agreements
The conference can be at a place of our mutual agreement. We look forward to your response.

Signed,
The Right Honourable William Lyon Mackenzie King, Prime Minister

by **Countesia** » Sun Apr 10, 2022 12:02 pm

San Salvador Federal District
State of El Salvador
Federal Republic of Central American States

President Bolivar stood outside the freshly renovated building that had been set aside to house the diplomatic mission from the United States. Formerly an estate turned hotel, turned administration building, the previous occupants had been relocated and the entire building revamped with finely crafted masonry, oak furnishings, marble flooring and gilded fixtures. An rediculous amount of reals had been thrown towards the project in an attempt to impress the visitors from the United States. It now simply awaited its occupants.

Admiring the craftwork, President Bolivar grinned "I have half a mind to let them take the presidential palace, and live here myself." He joked. His entourage laughed with him. As this happened the convoy that had been sent to the port city of Acajutla to collect the American delegation turned onto the street where they all stood. Ernesto had personally handled the purchase of five American built Cadillac V-16's which had arrived to pick them up as a gift to the embassy, part of another ploy to impress the Americans. They were flanked by an armed escort of Presidential Guards on motorbikes, which had been sent with the cars for protection. San Salvador, especially the federal district, enjoyed a low crime rate but the outskirts of the city was prone to surges of intermittent gang violence, so no chances were taken with such VIP guests.

Bolivar stood to greet the American diplomats as the cars braked to a halt. Servants from inside the building rushed outside to open the doors and to take any luggage

by **Intermountain States** » Sun Apr 10, 2022 8:03 pm

To: Chancellor Dámaso Berenguer of the Spanish Empire
From: United States Department of State

To Mr. Chancellor, his Senior Excellency,

Deepening diplomatic ties between the great powers of the Pacific would be a welcome to the United States over potential shared interests in regards to the happenings of the Pacific Ocean. Especially as the world is facing hostilities from the communists and the fascists. President Garner would be honored to host the esteemed King Louis III of Spain to the White House to discuss possible cooperation between the United States and Spanish Empire.

With regards,
Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby for President John Garner of the United States of America

To: Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King of the Dominion of Canada
From: United States Department of State

To the Right Honorable Prime Minister,

Despite our differing governmental systems, Canada and America shares many commonality that the two nations are like brothers. Both share a common British heritage as former colonies of Great Britain with rights and liberties influenced by the English Bill of Rights of old. Both countries have dealt with the turmoil of the post-war world order. Canada have refugees from the unrest and revolution from Great Britain while America dealt with communist and fascist uprisings exploiting a team of American weakness. The President is in agreement that it is time for the United States to shed its policy of isolationism and push for greater cooperation between the two brotherly nations to ensure that the flames of liberties continue to burn brightly. While the President of the United State does prefer hosting the meeting in Washington, any location is fine as long as ample security is present.

With regards,
Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby for President John Garner of the United States of America

by **Draos** » Mon Apr 11, 2022 8:32 am

The Hague administrative capital of the Netherlands
Hubert Pierlot sat in his office late into the night, the Kingdom was in a precarious position surrounded on 3 sides by socialist states who would likely attempt to spread the revolution to his country. There was also the rise of far right leagues in Wallonia advocating independence and suppression of Jews and other minorities in the region. He yawned as he had spent all day in meetings with key figures to try and solve the nation’s problems, shaking his head to try and hold off his exhaustion until he could come up with a solution the only thing that was agreed upon was asking Danubia who they maintained close relations with and the United States to Guarantee their independence so that is what he was going to do.

To the President of the United States of America
Dear Mr.President
It is with great apologies that I do send this message to you, as you are most certainly aware the situation of Europe following the twin devastations of the Great War and the global depression is in a most unfortunate state. Many nations have fallen to extremist parties so I beseech you to aid us in preserving what last footholds of democracy remains on the continent.
Sincerely
Hubert Pierlot Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

To the Minister-President of the Danubian Confederation
Despite our positions of opposition in the Great War the Dutch people still hold great admiration for our cousins in Wien. So I would like to further strengthen the bonds of family between our nations so that we may both be better protected in these unprecedented times.
Sincerely
Hubert Pierlot Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

by **Elerian** » Mon Apr 11, 2022 8:09 pm

Shanghai Morning Post, February 1st 1938
MINISTRY OF JUSTICE MOVES AGAINST OPIUM SMUGGLERS, INTERIOR PROVINCES ANNOUNCE MAJOR ANTI-OPIATE CAMPAIGN

The Kuomintang government took new steps today to curb drug routes especially between Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, where the narcotics trade is believed to have greatly impacted local productivity. The Executive Yuan has, effective at midnight, revoked permits for the wholesale cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution of Opium. Many have made calls for the Kuomintang government to do more to control the flow of drugs both into and out of the country. The National Security Bureau and National Police forces will now be tasked with investigating reports of Opiate manufacturing and screen cargo traveling to and from China for Opium.

The surprise move comes after a leaked report from the Department of Prevention, Rehabilitation and Protection, which estimated the country to have at least ten million Opium addicts. The Executive Yuan made clear that even more measures may soon be taken to try and put pressure on drug-trafficking networks going both in and out of India, French Indochina and especially on those tied to the hard hit interior provinces.

The National Security Bureau also announced it would be taking steps to seriously curtail narcotics imports from the Indochina region, as China remains one of the world's largest drug importers and many suspect that Burmese and French Indochinese rebel groups are supplying their drugs to the Chinese market. What these further steps entail has not yet been elaborated on.

Wuxi Daily, February 3rd 1938
DEFENSE MINISTER CHEN CHENG ANNOUNCES INCREASED SUPPORT FOR KOREAN AND MANCHURIAN GOVERNMENTS IN EXILE; DENOUNCES JAPANESE TREATMENT OF COUNTRY “AS MILITARY TESTING GROUND”

294 years after Japanese Imperial forces first stepped foot on Chinese soil, the Vice Minister of National Defense has once again issued a statement of total support for Korean and Manchurian independence movements in the latest meeting of the Legislative Yuan.

He announced the increased support for the occupied nations in a speech delivered to gathered members of the Executive Yuan in the Parliamentary building in Nanjing. There, he issued a scathing indictment pertaining to the actions of the Japanese armed forces, the collaborationist government in Beijing and pro-Japanese Korean, Han and Manchu officials operating in the North. Of the Japanese forces, he claimed that the "obvious and continuous violation of Chinese sovereignty" was enough to cause concern, but the fact that it continues to claim the Imperial Mandate made recent military expansions all the more alarming. The Vice Minister went on to exclaim that "the full scale of Japanese actions on the mainland", revealed by the recently-released Japanese Daily, "should prove to all good members of the international community that enough is enough. They should understand that we cannot, with good conscience, allow for Japanese imperialist aggression to go unanswered".

It was at this point in the address that the Vice Minister announced increased support for anti-Japanese groups in the country. "We cannot allow for our allies and comrades in arms to suffer under the boot of Japanese imperialism" the Vice Minister said, to great applause. "The Japanese actions in Manchuria and Korea cannot go unanswered" he said. "If Japan is to forcefully disperse civilians and force them to take up arms against their will, then we will have no choice but to stand with the oppressed and hopeless." he added. "So it is with a heavy heart that I will today announce not only increased support for our allies in the Korean National Association and the Manchu Society for Monarchical Constitutionalism, but also that I invite the good folk of Europe and the Americas to the table for negotiations in regards to forming a united front against Japanese imperialism."

The Vice Minister ended his speech with a chilling warning to the Japanese, and Prime Minister Tojo. "We have made our actions known, because we act in the interest of the international community," he said. "I would ask for the Japanese to act in that same interest, and pull out of Manchuria and Korea," he added. "And I would hope that they do. I truly do hope this. But if they do not, if they continue to use Korea and Manchuria as a military testing ground to the detriment of its citizens, then we will have to act with greater force, greater fury and greater arms." he said.

CHINESE MINISTRY OF DEFENSE INTENT ON SEEKING AMERICAN MILITARY EXPERTISE

"With the rising tensions in our region, it has become clear to the President and the Chinese people that permitting ourselves to militarily lag behind our neighbors and seeking to rely solely on ourselves can no longer be tolerated. It has been an important part of President Wenhao's promise to Take Back China that we become proactive in the security of our region to maintain peace and prosperity." This came from Minister Chen Cheng, Chinese Minister of Defense, following a recent speech made before the Legislative Yuan.

This has been the most recent of statements by the Chinese government stating its intentions of modernizing the Chinese Imperial Army to match the capabilities of her neighbors. Under Weng Wenhao’s administration, China has altered course, opting to seek foreign support rather than follow Chen Jiongming’s ‘Self-Strengthening’ initiative. However, Wenhao continued Chen Jiongming’s plans to steadily improve its military capabilities and reform how China behaves on a regional scale in regards to security. Among the most recent projects, the Wenhao administration has set for new Russian licensed, but domestically produced tanks of new, advanced designs.

Furthermore, the Chinese government looks abroad to help strengthen her military to stand before the ambitions of neighboring countries. The United States of America, a longtime supporter of China, seems a logical next step for China to seek aid in this matter. The Danubian Confederation and the Russian Empire have also long been military suppliers for the Chinese Imperial army. Its possible the Wenhao administration will also look to these two nations for more aid. More developments in this regard will certainly be released in the following weeks.

by **Intermountain States** » Sat Apr 16, 2022 1:40 pm

To: Prime Minister Hubert Pierlot of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
From: United States Department of State

To the Honorable Prime Minister,

Forgive the confusion expressed in this message as the message received from a European country for cooperation is often a rarity in itself, let alone a wish from a country for assistance. The United States of America has not been involved in European affairs for decades with the exception of American businesses investing in European capital. America has declared neutrality during the Great War and we are by no means a major world power. A regional power with power in the Americas and to certain degree, some influence in the Pacific, yes but we're not France nor pre-revolutionary Great Britain. Our voices declaring support for the remaining democracies in Europe mean little to the Internationale. The best we can offer is to extend protection to the West Indies in case the royal government need to flee the Netherlands. Perhaps even notify Ambassador George Gordon in our consulate in Hague to provide asylum as well. Apologies if our offers do little to boost the morale of the government facing threats from communists and fascists but that is our best promise for a country that has little to no influence in Europe to give to a European country.

With regards,
Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby for President John Garner of the United States of America

San Salvador Federal District
Federal Republic of Central American States

Meredith Nicholson was appointed by President Garner to be the first ambassador to America's permanent embassy in the San Salvador Federal District in Central America. While the United States had appointed ambassadors to the Federal Republic of Central America since the founding of the Central American republic in 1823, no permanent embassies or consulates were established nor were such a thing was deemed important enough for either authorities to pursue for over a century.

As the American delegation stepped off from their ship at the port city of Acajutla, they were greeted by some of President Ernesto Bolivar's men to be sent to the capital district. It appears that President Bolivar had spared zero expense in an effort to impress his American visitors, Nicholson thought to himself as he and the other envoys were driven to the country's capital district in Cadillac V-16s flanked by armed escorts on motorbikes.

Once the cars slowed to a halt at their destination, the Central American staffs opened the doors for the delegates to step out of the vehicle. The building that is to serve as the permanent embassy for the United States looked quite impressive and standing in front of the building was the President of the Central American States Ernesto Bolivar himself and a few of his entourage. Nicholson gave a smile at the President and held out his hand for a handshake.

"I am Meredith Nicholson, American ambassador to the great country of the Federal Republic of the Central American States," the ambassador greeted. "It is an honor to meet the President in person, and thank you for the effort of establishing a permanent embassy."

by **Countesia** » Sun Apr 17, 2022 5:11 am

San Salvador Federal District
State of El Salvador
Federal Republic of Central American States

Ernesto greeted the man jovially as two servants came forward to take anything the man had been carrying himself. The remaining staff moved to cater for the rest of the delegation.

"The honour is truly mine, this is a truly momentous occasion for our nation" He said as he escorted the American delegation inside.

"This building is fully equipped to handle a diplomatic mission of considerable size. Beyond this lobby, are almost a dozen private offices including three open offices for your people to carry out the necessary day to day administration." He said as he led them throughout the building. "For yourself we have accommodation to rival the finest hotels in this city, lest you miss the comforts of home." The hallways were just as grand as the lobby, with the woodwork and carpentry still ripe with that aroma of freshly worked wood. He made his way to one of the buildings many conference rooms.

"Here is the main conference room" He said as he opened the door to a brilliantly lit room with a grand mahogany table complete with ten shining leather chairs "We hope many a fruitful meeting can be conducted within this room. Of which, if you can forgive my haste, I would like to conduct now"

by **Empire of Techkotal** » Sun Apr 17, 2022 12:17 pm

27th of January 1938
Spain, Cadiz

The seagulls flew high above the ships and the waves crushed against the pier. Two Ocean Liners lie in the harbor of Cadiz awaiting their unusual guests. They had been quickly put into rented by the Spanish government and were now used to ferry troops over to Morocco. Several other transport ships lie in the harbor. They were being loaded with all the troops needed ranging from food and ammunition to medicine and horses. The planes flew directly to the landing field near Ceuta. Ten thousand soldiers were being transported and another ten thousand would follow the next week and the next and so on. The first tanks had already arrived in Cadiz, but had to wait until it was their turn. All of the high brass were at the harbor taking pictures and joking about the coming war. A small film crew was filming the process for the public.

His majesty the king stood there waiting and waiving his hand to the leaving ships. Louis III then turned to the man standing next to him and said.

"A magnificent sight isn't it, General Franco? I entrust this military campaign to you. May you bring glory and victory to Spain."

"I shall proof your trust into me as commander of all northern African troops and win glory for the empire. Once that is done, I shall see to it personally, that something like this doesn't happen again."

Answered General Franco Francisco.

"Do you wish to get all news send to you, while on your journey to America your majesty? Or shall we give you the details afterwards?"

The king turned to him in confusion.

"Of course, will you send all news to me. I wish to be well informed. Why wouldn't I want to receive the news over the war?"

"I'm just saying, because the last time we did this the there were a few complications, if you remember your majesty."

Franco said and then nodded over to the one of the ocean liners on which the Queen impatiently waited.

"By god I forgot. It might be better to just do a meeting with the general Staff once I'm back. Well I have taken enough of your time. I shall now take my leave, if anything happens Berenguer is in charge during my absence. "

With these words the king slowly went towards the ocean liner on course to New York.

"We wish you a good journey your majesty"

Shouted the ministers and generals assembled and under their and the onlookers waving the ocean liner started its journey towards America the land of the free.

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Sun Apr 17, 2022 5:27 pm

4th February

Foreign Minister Responds to Southern Regime

Foreign Minister Zhang Jinghui responded to accusations against Japan levied by the Southern Regime. "It's completely unacceptable that a government openly funds terrorist actors and questions the sovereign borders of another country. The borders between the Empire of Japan and the Southern Regime have been fixed for more than 290 years. To claim that Japan somehow violates the sovereignty of the Southern Regime is laughable, since the Southern Regime never owned those lands in the first place. It is even more laughable that this Southern Regime pretends to have any claims on Ming borders, when it is well known that the legal successor to the Ming Dynasty is the Empire of Japan. It is the Emperor of Japan, after all, who sits on the Dragon Throne and holds the Mandate of Heaven. Members of the South's Legislative Yuan are free to visit the Forbidden Palace in Beijing to see for themselves."

"As with regards to Manchukuo and the Kingdom of Korea, both matters are considered closed for over three centuries. The Emperor of Japan is also the rightful King of Korea and had been accepted as Khagan of the Manchu tribes. Why the officials in the Southern Regime think it is a good idea to question national borders with a history of more than three centuries - longer than the Southern Regime itself, which was the product of a Mongol takeover of Southern China - is beyond me."

"Despite the fact that as rightful successors to the Ming Dynasty we could have pursued claims in Southern China, we have not done so. The reason is that in this modern age we believed that disputes between nations should be solved peaceful and that sovereign borders should be respected. It is clear to the international community which party is pursuing an aggressive agenda of expansionism and revision of the status quo, and which party seeks to maintain peace and stability in East Asia."

"Now, with regards to accusations about the well-being of citizens of the Empire, I have to remind the officials of the Southern Regime that the Empire of Japan is a federal state that provides substantial autonomy to each State. All imperial citizens, regardless of ethnicity or religion, have the same right as guaranteed by the Imperial Constitution. I myself, a Han Chinese in ethnicity, sit in the Imperial Cabinet. Any claims of discrimination or oppression are not only unfounded; they are ludicrous and insulting. I should remind the officials of the South that their regime is led by a Mongol 'Emperor', so they should be more careful when resorting to arguments on the basis of ethnicity."

"With regards to the Empire's initiatives in the Mainland, we remind the Southern Regime that every state has the right to invest in infrastructure - including military infrastructure - in its sovereign territory, and has the right to maintain armed forces within its borders for the shake of self-defense against external aggression. We are baffled as to why those self-evident facts are considered a cause of concern by the Southern Regime, especially since the Empire has a well-known policy of upholding the status quo and opposing changes to national borders."

"I am saddened to announce that we will be sanctioning the Southern Regime, due to their announcement concerning aiding terrorist groups. We will not allow citizens of the Southern Regime to enter Imperial territory. If hostile actions continue, we will be forced to confiscate assets belonging to the citizens of the South. We really hope that the situation does not reach this point."

Prime Minister's Speech to Tokyo Economic Conference

Prime Minister Hideki Tojo spoke in the annual Tokyo Economic Conference, an event in which traditionally Japanese Prime Ministers expand on their agendas and the policies they hope to implement. "The priority of our government," the Prime Minister stated, "is to ensure a continuation of our current high-rates of economic growth, a rationalization of the tax system and bolstering of national defense. More specifically, the Finance Minister Okinori Kaya announced a drastic reduction in property taxation and the institution of a value-added tax instead, the creation of a single, progressive income tax to replace the current schedular system of taxation, and the establishment of a new indirect luxury tax."

"This is a much needed reform. Our current tax system overtaxes property, excessively burdening landowners. The income tax is also unduly complicated and adds to red tape and needless bureaucracy. I'm glad to confirm from this Conference that the bill implementing the mentioned reforms will be brought to the Imperial Diet next week. This reform will allow us - along with reasonable and temporary deficit spending - to fund a massive stimulus package to support Japanese corporations and promote economic growth."

"Our governing philosophy is one that rejects both socialism and unhinged capitalism, seeking instead cooperation between the government, the private sector and trade unions to promote social stability and economic growth. This stimulus package is based upon this philosophy: the government will support corporations, who in turn will firstly ensure high-rates of economic growth and secondly raise workers' wages, thus also empowering consumer spending."

The Prime Minister also addressed the announced investment into military industry. "Supporting corporations that produce arms and equipment for the Japanese army shall not only decrease unemployment, but shall also ensure we can defend the Empire from external threats. And such threats are very real unfortunately. The Southern Regime that has been threatening the sovereign borders of our Empire. Our government - despite pleas from some patriotic lawmakers and officers - has chosen a rather calm response. But calmness should not be confused with weakness. We will keep bolstering our armed forces, and ensure that we are more than ready to face any enemies on the field of battle."

"To the effect of this, I am also announcing a program of doubling the number of tanks of the Imperial Army by 1941. This decision is not one taken lightly, but rather the result of deep thoughts. It is part of a 'Keep Japan Safe' program, as I've named this initiative to bolster our national defense. We will not allow anyone to threaten our territorial integrity."

by **Empire of Techkotal** » Mon Apr 18, 2022 11:43 pm

30 of January 1938
Madrid, Spain

Hectic footsteps echoed from the walls. Officers and party members went in and out of Azaña's office. Reporters were busy writing proclamations. Soldiers armed themselves and wore their new uniforms and above all of their heads hangs the red flag. Office woman typed the telegrams to all the distant groups in Spain. From Madrid came the call for change. Now that the Terciores and the monarchist generals were occupied with the Berber tribes and the king being on his voyage to America.

"It's time to start Azaña. We have organized a broadcast of your speech."

Said one of Azaña's party members.

"Ok. Now give me the microphone and a glass of water."

Said Azaña.

To the Spanish People

Dear Spanish,
you the people, that work from 6 am to 6 pm. You all now me. Often have you heard my voice through the radio. Promising you a better future: more rights, better working conditions, less taxes to pay, less bureaucrats and less paperwork for you, more affordable housing and a better education for your children. But the nationalists and monarchists have always stopped us and never let us improve your life.

I and many others have grown tired of this old charade. We the people of Spain work, so that they can sit in their palaces or earn more glory on the field of battle. They the bourgeoisie and the nobility just bleed us dry.
Your money doesn't flow back into your schools or healthcare, but into our overseas possessions. All your money is spend on new plantations, railways, garrisons and the fleet and at the end there is nothing left for the common people. We the socialists had enough of this system.

The old and weak must pass and the new shall gain its place. Today we announce the the founding of the Spanish Republic. May the red flag show us the way to a better future. I call upon all you who are sick of the monarchists to stand up and fight for the Republic. Don't let them trample you. Show them that we are Spanish too and that we deserve a better future.

Dámaso Berenguer ran through the palace. His day has started good without much work and now socialists bothering him, but the situation right now was a catastrophe. The speech of Azaña still in his mind. The socialists were on the move and that in one of the worst moments. The king was absent and Franco had gone to Morocco with the General staff. While the Terciores were gathering around Cadiz. While a many of the most loyal forces are now in a good spot to take care of the situation, it also meant that they couldn't crush the rebellions in many of Spain's regions.

As he reached his office he saw several officers already waiting for him. They turned to him and saluted.

"Chancellor, your orders?"

With this question confronted Berenguer first went to his locker and got himself one bottle of whisky. He poured himself and the officers the cups and said:

"I'm sorry that such young men as you have to do something like this, but you have to mobilize the kings guard. Occupy the public places, secure the palace, the parliament and the train station. Build fortifications and announce martial law."

"Yes, Chancellor!"

The officers exited his office leaving Berenguer alone. In all his time as chancellor never did he foresee such an situation. Locking out of the window he called a servant outside of the office.

"Pablo bring me my uniform and my pistol and tell Raphael come here. I need him to write a telegram to Franco."

Telegram to Franco
To Field Marshall Franco Francisco,

as you may have already heard from the radio, the socialists have declared their own republic. Here by you are appointed as Field Marshall and shall immediately come back to Spain. One of the local Generals shall take over. The Terciores are to be split into two groups. Group one shall help the Regulares crush the Berber's and group two shall regroup at Cadiz and advance once the order is given. Right now it is not clear which troops are under our control and which are under enemy control.

January 31 1938
Madrid, Spain

The dinning hall in the Royal palace was filled with smoke from the cigars of officers and generals alike. Berenguer stood at the head of the table looking at the map of Iberia. Metal figures represented known forces of the royalists and communists. It didn't look good at all. Large parts of Spain were under communist control. Though control might be exaggerated. The garrisons and mayor's in regions had simple announced they would side with the Republic.

"It is confirmed now, that the fleet in Barcelona has joined the communists. So they now have a navy comprising of "

Said the vice-admiral. He paused and looked over to the officers.

"How many soldiers do we have?"

"Around 150.000 soldiers in Spain. There are 110.000 soldiers from the Spanish army all over Spain and 40.000 Terciores around Cadiz. But we have problems with supply lines so we can't say how many are well equipped."

Said and officer.
Berenguer looked at the map and said.

"We have 150.000 and the enemy has 170.000, if our estimates are correct. As intelligence suggest's we should take these information with a grain of salt, because there seems to be some infighting among the communists. They may split up if this continues. The situation looks bad, but I guess we could solve it somehow. Right now we should concentrate on getting out of Madrid though. We have 800 soldiers here in Madrid and can hold large parts of Madrid for maybe one or two more days, but then the enemy will overwhelm us. It is therefore very important to break out of Madrid and to link up with our troops in the north."

"I shall gather the men and secure a train for us. Make all necessary preparations on your part Chancellor. We will leave in approximately two hours."

Said the captain of the kings guard and then left the room shouting orders to his officers.

A War of Blood and Steel [Althis|PT|IC|Open]

A War of Blood and Steel [Althis|PT|IC|Open]

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