ME7: 1899 Eurasia

[Matt]

bam boioooomm

[perdedor99]

January 3rd 1899 13:18hrs
Archona. Domination of Draka

The news were surprising, but at the same time brought a sense of pride to the Archon."China is asking us to enter into a defensive alliance similar to the one we have with Persia and Russia?" he asked his aide, the bearer of the news.

"Yes,Sir. They also desire to buy in the open market some subs and torpedo boats." responded the aide.

The Archon pondered that for a second."We could sell them some of the old designs in both classes. Their request for an alliance needs to go thru the formalities of being discussed and approved in the Senate but it will receive my endorsement and that carry a lot of weight."He smiled at that small joke while his aide also did, soemthing you should do when the most powerful man in the Domination makes a joke no matter how bad it was.

The Archon thoughts turned to how his nation isolation was ending. "Three nations already have entered into formal relations with our nation and if the rumors from Europe are true maybe more in the near future." The Archon smiled. Times are changing.

[DuQuense]

January 4th Border Empire China/ Am-Can Shantung

Sergeant Hans O'Hara stood in his Turtle talking to to the Calvary squad,

"Here comes the Peking Express right on time, See you Boys back at the Barracks."

Putting down his rail wheels the turtle pulled onto the track following the train. General MacArthur had started these patrols when the local Boxers had been objecting to the building of railroads, General Bryant taking over had seen no reason to cancel them.

As they drove along O'Hara was talking about how peaceful it was, and how the local Farmers, now planted right up to the edge of the rail-line, as if the Tracks weren't really there. They were about five miles in. when the Attack happened.

A Fire made of the Corn Stalks stopped the train, and a band of men swept out of the stalks along the tracks attacking the train. Pulling up the Rail wheels the Turtle rushed forward, crushing the Corn, and taking the attackers in the rear.

Fifteen minutes later the Calvary patrol caught up with them.

"Lieutenant, I don't believe these were locals. It was as if they had no idea whe were accompanying the train, and all the locals know it. And all that was in the car they were attacking is a low level diplomatic mission from Peking."

"That may be Sarge, but lets leave that up to the Intelligence Boys" The Lieutenant had his own ideas on what a successful attack would have done to relations with the Empire, but didn't want to speculate.

[Aussey]

Hofburg Palace
Vienna, Upper Austria
Habsburg Empire

The Emperor, Empress, and their children sat peacefully around the fire place. The Archduchesses played their instruments (Vienna still is the music capital of the world), and all the Archdukes were studying their military textbooks. The younger ones were playing in the corner. The Emperor was having a stern conversation with the Crown Princes, and Princess-Imperial by the table, and the Empress was nursing the newborn. Indeed, they were the ideal family at the time.

A few years of peace had brought the Empire's economy, and national pride up. Patriots of all kind had formed the Patricotic Party of the Empire, gaining more and more seats. They taught of strict loyalty to the Emperor and Empire. Many people were joining this "Nationalist" party, and by the New Year, they held most of the seats in the Parliament. The Imperial-Secretary's New Years Speach, even taught of how one should be able to die for their country, with the popular phrase "The Crown Knows Best." The population was beginning to believe the Emperor unfallible.

The Empress got up, and handed her baby to a maid. For a woman who had given birth to 8 children. She was still only 5"5, wieghing 120 pounds. She walked over to her husband, and they walked arm-in-arm down the hall to a library, followed by 5 Imperial Guards.

When they arrived, the two sat in the nearest large armchairs, and the Empress began:

"Louis. I have taken interest in this Patriots Party, and have begun having daily discussions with Herr von Geske, the party chairman. He believes, for the sake of nationalism, you should officially change your title from "Emperor" to "Kaiser," in order to more "Habsburgify" yourself."

"Are you saying, Madame, that I, the son of Maria Christina, daughter of Maria Theresa II, who was daughter of the great Rudolf III am not a Habsburg? Surely then, how did I come about assuming this throne?"

"Your Majesty, Pragmatic Sanctions were issued for your grandmother, your aunt, and your mother. It was you who declared prigmotoure((sp???)) the order of succession. If I might say, Your Grace, you look no more or less French than the Crown Prince of the French himself."

"Don't speak of that man in my palace!" the Emperor ordered. "Coming from the woman who claims she is a Princess of China and the Philippenes? A Spanish-Bourbon, who's brother rules the Orient, not even in whole? You who's coat-of-arms bear the Imperial Chinese Dragan and the Filipino sun, while you yourself are tanned skin, brown eyed, and black-haired? Your Highness looks like no Chinaman I have ever seen."

"Louis! Why must you do this? All I wished was for you to take more pride and patriotism for your Empire, than you already do! For the sake of your dynasty of Habsburg-Lorraine-Bourbon, three great families merged under your lead, ruling almost half-of Europe! Louis, I beg of you, just listen to me."

"Your Grace's thoughts and opinions have been heard." The Emperor said, after pulling himself together. "I bid you good night, Madame." And with that, the Emperor and his wie retired to their bed-chambers, and the children were escorted to their rooms.

[perdedor99]

January 7th 1899 07:39hrs
Zanzibar, Domination of Draka

From his office window Arch-Strategos Arn Svenson, commander of the Indian Ocean Fleet and commander of the gigantic Naval base in the island, can see one of the prides of the Drakan Navy, the DS Domination, leaving port surrounded by the three light cruisers designed to be their escorts.

"What a sign of beauty. A shame that is just a paper tiger." He lamented while continuing to watch the majestic ship. He knew the standing orders for that ships were to flee any engagement versus a enemy dreadnought or battlecruiser don't matter the circunstances. They can only face cruisers or predreads if at all. They were too valuable to be lost in combat and they were more of a threat as a fleet in being, letting the British worry about six powerful ships sailing thru their communication lines with India. Arn smiled while deep inside him he lamented that most likely his ships will never meet a enemy dreadnought in combat except by accident. "I truly hope they are as good as they sold them to me, but they seem like very good ships so far."

[perdedor99]

January 9th 1899 09:24hrs
Tanganika, Domination of Draka

Yussef was enjoying his pass a lot. The two nude serf wenches laying on his bed made him feel again like the young man that left his father plantation 7 years ago to serve his new nation in Ethiopia, no worries on his life except enjoying the pleasures of the female serfs in the plantation.

When he left seven years ago the place was very rustic, but he's still amaze of all the things his father has done in hais plantation since he left. He comes back every year from his pass from the 1st Skandistani and there is always something different. "The new Mosque is truly an in credible sight," he thought, "And an electric plant on the plantation makes everyones' lives easier."

He rose from his bed and left the two wenches sleeping. "Maybe come back for more later." and giggled silently. On the way to the kitchen he saw a figure thru the window and has to stop. A man without a shirt and his back covered in scars caused by the whip was working in the garden. What made him different was the color of his skin. He was white.

Later on the day he asked his father and he explained to him he purchased the serf about four years ago a little after the sale of Sudan to the Mauris. According to the pens' employees he was a Austrian officer captured by the Mahdists and sold as serf. "A terrible serf," his father told him, "too noisy and proud. But we take care of that."

"What you did, father?" asked Yussef.

"Well for one he will never speak back to a Citizen again. I cut myself the tongue of the bastard. And we cut his testicles. That took care of his pride. Now he just moans and informants between the serfs have told me he cries sometimes when he thinks nobody is watching. The coward dog cries like a little wench! I find that amusing indeed!" responded his father.

Yuseef fell silent for a second, deep in thought."This is not the way of Islam." he responded to his father,"the need of us to have serfs is true and right but to threat them like that is against the call for clemency the Prophet ask from every one of us for the weak, father. I implore you to free that poor infidel of that terrible burden.

Hassan stared at his son and smiled."How much my son has changed in his years in the Army." he thought. Them he spoke to his son. "Very well son, your plea for that rotten serf has soften my heart." He stand up, walked to the rifle mounted on the wall and picked up the weapon, walked to the window facing the serfs working on the field and opened the window. "It will be a difficult shot, 300 yards. You do it my son." And handed the rifle to Yuseef.

Yussef brought the rifle to his shoulder, looked thru the sights and compensated for the wind blowing while pulling the trigger. The head of the serf exploded a couple of seconds later. "Thank you father. You honor me by doing this."

Hassan responded to his son,"And you honor me by reminding me what Islam truly is. Thank you son."

They both turned away from the window and their discussion turned to more mundane things.

[Condottiero]

Imperial Palace
Forbidden City (Beijin)
January 6th, 1899

Although the official language of the court was spanish, Emperor Felipe usually spoke a fluent chinese with the local noblemen. It was a gesture they appreciated really and that made relations easier. The Emperor looked at his court, one of them was acting without his consent putting at risk his ambitious plans. Another unauthorized attack over the americans in the coast and they risked a counter-attack that he could not afford to deal at the moment.

He looked again. One of them was, perhaps, so ambitious as to defy him. He did not like it. Perhaps the chief of the secret police Juan Maria Pan Ting could unmask him. He could offer his head to the americans as a way of gaining their confidence. But, no, that could bring new problems, it should be solved without attracting abyone's attention.

- I would like to go on hunting. It's been a long time since we did it last time!

[Lauranthalas]

January 12th
Moscow
Headquarters of the secret service

"How the hell is that possible?"
"How is what possible, Sir?"
"Last week one of our agents found blueprints of watermines and dept-charges in a car here in Moscow. Those blueprints were supposed to be safe in Siberia where our scientists are working on them to build them and make them better! NOT HERE IN MOSCOW 3000 MILES AWAY!!!!!!"
"I dont know how this could have happened."
"WELL - I DONT CARE WHETHER YOU KNOW OR NOT! BUT I KNOW THAT YOU WILL DO SOMETHING - SOON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

[perdedor99]

January 16th 1899 11:04hrs
Archona, Domination of Draka

"Thank you Mr. Ambassador. Will think about your offer and give you my answer later." responded James Stewart while holding the door for the Austrian Ambassador.

The man just touched the rim of his hat and nodded on the way out of the office. The Archon closed the door and turned inthe direction of his desk, his mind calculating what that offer could give the Drakan nation.

"So the rumors were true. The Austrians are preparing themselves for a fight and now they are courting us. I guess their hate of the other ones was too much and they have to shallow their pride to ask us where we will stand in case of war." he thought while sitting on his chair and began to read the reports in regard to troop deployments. Still he has his doubts. "But if we join as co-belligerants, what will stop this so called Alliance to make a go for our nation after they are done with the hated ones?

Archon Stewart was in a bind. The chance to hurt the hated ones is on hand but the future could actually turn worse even if they win. A very difficult decision indeed.

[Galbatorix]

near suez
january 10, 1899


the admiral fathi watched with his binoculars the positions of the British. the fortifications were impressive, it was evident that the distrust between both nations was mutual. Specially after the reinforcement of the alliance of Persian with Austrians and drakans. perhaps it was an error of previous shah not to confront the problem of Suez, not to have been taken advantage of the war between the austrians and the drakans. although nobody asked to him old shah, neither Austrian, nor South African.

new times approached. times of change and of war.

"?when will be your troops ready?" asked the skandistano-drakan officer by his side. "soon, very soon"

[Bulgaroktonos]

Great Britain
January 13th
1899

Lord Salisbury sat over the bed of his dying wife. In some ways, he felt that it was partly his fault. He found himself convinced that constant travelling about the country, and occassionally to the foreign parts of the Empire, including Canada last year and Suez a few months later, had contributed to her illness. What had started as a cough had turned into a cold, and into pneumonia. Her last few weeks had been disasterous, her condition continually worsening. Now, her breaths came in only ragged whispers.......

There was a knock upon the door.

Salisbury beckoned for the visitor to enter. It was the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Randolph Churchill. In Salisbury's opinion, it was Churchill who had made the Tories what they were today. It had been his activism that had wrested control of Birmingham from the Liberals and won them rule over Britain for nearly 13 straight years, excluding the interval of 1898-1899, when the Liberals had won over the issue of Irish Dominionship. It was Churchill who began advocating that Britain should extend Dominionship to Ireland concurrently with India, as Ireland was capable of Home Rule if India was. Furthermore, Churchill had argued, it was the very example of hypocrisy for Britain to subject the Irish to British domination while the Indians, Canadians, and Australians had been removed from full governance from London. And after the hotbed of revolt that Ireland had become under the Liberal government due to their outspoken resistence to Irish nationalism, the resurgent Tories had turned to Churchill......

[Ward]

January 12 1899 in Paris France

Office of the Inteligent Service

Minster Jean Collins looking over at the spy who just arrived from Moscow
did you bring those plains we asked you for.

The Spy replied yes I did , Now were is the mooney you peomised me .

Minister Jean Collins pointed toward a breifcase on his desk .

After the Spy left the Minister . Well how long will it be before he owes people in Moscow money again . And he is a member of there Royal Family .

[perdedor99]

January 14th 1899 14:28hrs
Jerusalem, Kingdom of Persia

Centurion Per Erik ibn Hassan was impressed by the hated ones' fortifications in the Suez Canal but that wasn't all. The presence of the British military mission and the lease they have on the Palestine area need ot be taken care off. He said that much to Admiral Fathi, commander of the 7th Military district and a good friend of the Shah himself. The Admiral agreed completely with the Centurion's assestment and said so in the recomendations he send to the Shah.

Per Erik hoped the Admiral have any influence over the Shah and he actually listen to these recommendations. Still expelling the British all that will do is to eliminate the most recent intelligence they could have of the Persian forces. "They trained the damn whole army, for Mohammed's hammer! I bet they have a dossier in every single officer and they know how many guns every single division have. I doubt an enemy was never so well informed of the condition of their adversary as in this war." he lamented silently while reading the report he was preparing to send to Archona. "And Palestine! What a mess! If the British refuse to abandon the area we could have close to 10% of army refusing to attack fellow Jews in the area and it could be worse in the technical branches. What a stupid way to wage a war."

He closed the envelope that contained the report and sealed it with a diplomatic wax seal. "Hope this information do not rattle the Supreme Headquarters too much." At least he hoped that happen.

[perdedor99]

January 17th 1899 10:07hrs
Archona, Domination of Draka

Arch-Strategos Fitzhugh Lee, overall commander of the Domination's armed forces, studied the reports with interests. "So the Persians are insisting in putting unnecessary pressure on the British? At least if they attack first we are relieved from declaring war to the hated ones. If we go to war with them it will be in our terms."

He closed that file and opened the one that showed the current location of every single Legion in the Domination's Army and this one gave him a smile. "We have been in position since late 1897 in some places. We have been stocking ammunition and supplies near those units marked for both defensive and offensive operations. We are as ready as we can be. But we have to wait for the correct moment, I hope that when it shows itself we will be ready."

Finally the last report came from America. He truly smiled at this one. It seemed he have a doppelganger in America. A retired military officer and according to the report it seems the man is being debriefed by the Americans to get an idea of how the Drakan one thinks. "Good luck Yanks. Hope the one you got is as much of a son of a bitch as I am."

With all reports concluded he looked at his watch and noticed it was already pass noon so he decided to retire for lunch and return afterwards. "Hope the canteen have steak today, the chicken was a little dry yesterday."

[perdedor99]

January 20th 1899 13:28hrs
Tanganikan coast, Domination of Draka

Strategos Thomas Jackson was pleased with the results of the early morning life fire exercise."Only 7 death janissaries, not bad at all." He was proud of the results. His division was landed in record time and captured their objectives in less than 7 hours, while according to the umpires they killed or captured over 8,000 enemies. Of course he suffered close to 5,000 casualties according to the umpires but 90% of them were serfs and the objectives were captured nevertheless.

Jackson has been a part of the Rapid Deployment Force[1] since their inception in 1886 and he's a veteran of the Madagascar pacification and the initial landings around Mogadishu in the early moments of the Austro-Drakan War. He was a respected veteran and was rewarded with the command of the 24th Janissary Division early in 1898.

Now the seven Division force was having a very public exercise in coastal Tanganika and a throng of foreign military observers were invited to see how effectives the Drakan forces were. In truth the old Imperial transport ships, while still very useful and capable, were getting a little in the side of old and replacements are in the the pipeline. Still the show was very good and Thomas knew it. "The damn Brits and their sand kaffirs really looked worried. And the face of the Yanks, taking notes like crazy. Most likely for their damn Marines. Damn Yanks!" he thought while sipping of his bottle of whiskey, trying to erase the memory that now he was over 50 years old and the last time he saw the coast of his home state was over 30 years ago. "Damn Yanks.I hope I see Virginia again before I die." He took another drink of his bottle while observing the foreign soldiers and promised to himself that some of the nations that bastards came from will taste he Drakan steel very soon."Very soon indeed, you bastards!"

[1] 7 division force created in 1886 using the Imperial ships as transport. Used twice in their history.

[Galbatorix]

damascus
february, 3

orders to the local command.
start the deployment of light cavalry around aqaba, with orders of being ready to enter palestine. the plans will be just to cause damage in communications, railroads and evaluate the readiness of the british army in the region.

admiral fathi

[perdedor99]

January 22nd 1899 15:16hrs
Pola, Central European Empire

The ships were being loaded as fast as possible following the orders of the General Staff that considered the defenses in Lybia needed to be upgraded. "At least that is the official government response." thought Centurion Michael Baxter while watching the Hapsburg 1st Colonial Division being loaded for duty in Lybia.

"So your nation is upgrading the defense of the Lybian province?" he asked his escort Karl Freiberg von Harath, a young Haupman in the Imperial Army.

"Yes, the High Command considered the province needed more troops in the area and the Crown know best." was the response of the Haupman.

"He used the slogan of this nation's Radicalist party. Need to find out how powerful that party truly is." He thought while responding the man. "And the rumors of the 2nd Colonial moving into Macedonia are also true? My counterpart in Salonika informed me that Imperial forces marched into that Kingdom under the invitation of that nation's Queen. Am I correct or my collegue gave wrong infromation?

The Haupman looked at Michael very serious and responded,"the rumors that Imperial forces have entered the Kingdom of Macedonia for now are just that, rumors." And turned back in the direction of the ships being loaded.

"The nerve of this idiot. The worst denial I have ever seen. So they are moving into Macedonia after all. Are they trying to test the British again? That really is interesting." he also turned in the direction of the ships and wondered how long before that troops are actually involved in combat.

[perdedor99]

February 5th 1899 09:43hrs
Archona, Domination of Draka

The Archon read the reports coming the Balkan and Middle East areas with interest. "The Persians are being too belligerant with the British. Could it be possible they have another patron besides us? That need to be investigated." He wrote a small note and passed to the shelf labelled Security Directorate. "Could it be the Austrians or the Russians? Ah, the Austrians perhaps! They have been busy lately."

He grabbed the folder labeled Macedonia and was truly amazed at the nerve of the Austrians. "I think they are actually in violation of some of the agreements they reached with the British in 1892 in their annexation of Macedonia. If I recall correctly they were prohibited of station troops in the area. They are testing the British resolve, that is for sure." He wrote another note, entered the note in the folder and put it away.

"The events are moving faster that I expected. Hope we are ready for the coming storm" He continued reading the reports, but they were more mundane in nature and he relaxed a little bit after a while.

[DuQuense]

Quidong, Shantung province

Governor Brant Picked up the report on the Train incident. Intelligence hadn't been able to determine who was responsible. But interesting, Chinese Intelligence was assuming it to the work of a dissident Chinese fraction. Scribbling a note to intelligence to pursue, increasing contacts inside the Chinese Intell Service, He put it aside and picked up the next one.

One Hundred new Turtles, had arrived, along with 250 new Oldsmobile Buckboards**. General MacArthur, as a ex cavalryman, had assigned all the Turtles to the Calvary. But General Brant, had come up thru the Artillery, the Queen of Battle. Scribbling to Assign the turtles to the Infantry, {lets see what they can do with them} he assigned half the buckboards to the Infantry and half to the Artillery.

And thinking of Artillery, He regretted that Canada would only assign one regiment of Artillery, Maybe a Talk with his American Vice Governor. The Americans, had more Guns than Canada. Perhaps they may send some this way.

** Steam Powered Buckboards = Pick-[her] -Up trucks

[perdedor99]

February 9th 1899 13:08hrs
Archona, Domination of Draka

The Archon read the Chinese plea with interest. The Chinese were worried with the recent arrivals of the Canadian turtles to the Canadian-American enclave in China. "Very good vehicles but slightly armed and not a lot of armor. Still very fast and useful. What I can do to ease the worries of my Chinese friends"

He checked the numbers of the latest production of steam cars and noticed that enough vehicles where in storage to replace any casualties incurred to the Lancers Divisions from the depot sites. "I guess we can send the Chinese 100 first generation steam cars and replace the numbers with the ones on the depot. With production the way is going we could replace that vehicles in a month or a month and a half." He thought while reading the numbers and scribbled a note approving the sale of 100 first generation steam cars to the Chinese Empire. "Hope that helps the kaffirs. I wish I can send them some anti-fortifications portable guns but the production we have right now is only enought to fill the needs of our army. Maybe in a couple of months." He closed the folder and began reading about the Austrian maneuvers in the Greece-Macedonian-Constantinople borders with interest.

[perdedor99]

Excerpts of the Archon's Speech in February 12th, 1899

Archona, Grand Plaza
Speech of February 12th, 1899

"Fellow-Countrymen, Citizens of Draka:
Nowadays I do not speak very often. In the first place I have little time for speaking, and in the second place I believe that this is a time for action rather than speech. We could be involved in a conflict in which more than the victory of only one country or the other is at stake; it is rather a war of two opposing worlds. I shall try to give you, as far as possible in the time at my disposal, an insight into the essential reasons underlying this possible conflict.

Millions of Britishs dominate and govern approximately 16 million square miles of the surface of the earth. The rest of the world has to do with the crumbs the Britishs let the rest of to have. While in his generosity Allah has give us land this land, it is not enought for our way of life and other in this world share our pain. Pain caused by the treachery of the ones that think themselves over every one else in this land.

Now, my fellow-countrymen, this world has not been so divided up by providence or Almighty Allah. This allocation has been made by man himself. The land was parcelled out for the most part during the last 300 years but the treacherous scroundrels doubled the size of their holdings in this world in the last 13 years, that is, during the period in which, unfortunately, the world was in shock still by the Event that bought us here. Split up into dozens of small states in consequence of the Event, the people of the world stood idly while the some cowardly fiends took advantage of the situation. It was not by just treaties or by agreements between equals, but exclusively by the use of force and intimidation that Britain forged her gigantic Empire.

The second people that failed to receive their fair share in this distribution, namely the Austrians, experienced and suffered a similar fate. I admit we have disagreements in the past and blood was spill between our two nations but was more due to the machinations of the British’s scoundrels that from any bad faith between our nations. We were both pawns in the machinations of that evil masters of deceit and we both paid dearly for that.

Thus in comparison with others, these two powerful peoples, the Austrians and us, have received much less than their fair share. The objection might be raised: Is this really of decisive importance?

My fellow-countrymen, man does not exist on theories and phrases, on declarations or on systems of political philosophy; he lives on what he can gain from the soil by his own labor in the form of food, serfs and raw materials. This is what he can eat, this is what he can use for manufacture and production. If a man's own living conditions offer him too little, his life will be wretched. We see that within the countries themselves, fruitful areas afford better living conditions than poor barren lands. In the one case there are flourishing villages; in the other poverty-stricken communities. A man may live in a stony desert or in a fruitful land of plenty. This handicap can never be fully overcome by theories, nor even by the will to work.

We see that the primary cause for the existing tensions lies in the unfair distribution of the riches of the earth. And it is only natural that evolution follows the same rule in the larger framework as it does in the case of individuals. Just as the tension existing between rich and poor within a country must be compensated for either by reason or often if reason fails, by force, so in the life of a nation one cannot claim everything and leave nothing to others....

The great task which I set myself in internal affairs was to bring reason to bear on the problems, to eliminate dangerous tensions by invoking the common sense of all, to bridge the gulf between the old Citizens and the new ones. I recognized, of course, that such processes cannot be consummated overnight. It is always preferable to bring together widely separated classes gradually and by the exercise of reason, rather than to resort to a solution based on force. . .

Therefore, the right to live is at the same time a just claim to the soil which alone is the source of life. When unreasonableness threatened to choke their development, nations fought for this sacred claim. No other course was open to them and they realized that even bloodshed and sacrifice are better than the gradual extinction of a nation. Thus, at the beginning of our Revolution in 1833, we set forth two demands. The first of these was the unification of our people, for without this unification it would not have been possible to mobilize the forces required to formulate and, particularly, to secure Draka's essential claims. . . .

For us, therefore, national unity was one of the essential conditions if we were to co-ordinate the powers inherent in the Drakan nation properly, to make the Drakan citizens conscious of their own greatness, realize their strength, recognize and present their vital claims, and seek national unity by an appeal to reason.

I know that I have not been successful everywhere. For nearly fifteen years of my struggle I was the target of two opposing sides. One side reproached me: 'You want to drag us who belong to the Old classes down to the level of the others. That is impossible. We are educated people. In addition to that, we are wealthy and cultured. We cannot accept this.'

These people were incapable of listening to reason; even today there are some who cannot be converted. However, on the whole the number of those who realize that the lack of unity in our national structure would sooner or later lead to the destruction of all classes has become greater and greater.
I also met with opposition from the other side. They said: 'We have our class consciousness.' However, I was obliged to take the stand that in the existing situation we could not afford to make experiments. It certainly would have been simple to eliminate the Second Class Citizens. Such a process could be carried out at once. But we would have to wait fifty or perhaps a hundred years for the gap to refill - and such a period would mean the destruction of the nation. Never again our janissaries will trust us. And the Second Class Citizens have shown their loyalty countless times to me and to this nation."


"... One might well believe that in these countries of liberty and riches, the people must possess an unlimited degree of prosperity. But no! On the contrary, it is precisely in these countries that the distress of the masses is greater than anywhere else. Such is the case in 'rich Britain.'

She controls sixteen million square miles. In India, for example, a hundred million colonial workers with a wretched standard of living must labor for her. One might think, perhaps, that at least in England itself every person must have his share of these riches. By no means! In that country class distinction is the crassest imaginable. There is poverty - incredible poverty - on the one side, and equally incredible wealth on the other. They have not solved a single problem. The workmen of that country which possesses more than one-sixth of the globe and of the world's natural resources dwell in misery, and the masses of the people are poorly clad.. In a country which ought to have more than enough bread and every sort of fruit, we find millions of the lower classes who have not even enough to fill their stomachs, and go about hungry. A nation which could provide work for the whole world must acknowledge the fact that it cannot even abolish unemployment at home. For decades this rich Britain has had two and a half million unemployed; rich America, ten to thirteen millions, year after year; France, six, seven, and eight hundred thousand. Well, my fellow-countrymen - what then are we to say about ourselves?

It is self-evident that where this democracy rules, the people as such are not taken into consideration at all. The only thing that matters is the existence of a few hundred gigantic capitalists who own all the factories and their stock and, through them, control the people. The masses of the people do not interest them in the least. They are interested in them just as were our bourgeois parties in former times - only when elections are being held, when they need votes. Otherwise, the life of the masses is a matter of complete indifference to them.

To this must be added the difference in education. Is it not ludicrous to hear a member of the British Labor Party - who, of course, as a member of the Opposition is officially paid by the government - say: 'When the war is over, we will do something in social respects'?..."

[Bulgaroktonos]

Great Britain
Defence Minister Kitchener's Memo to the Home Office on Strategic threats to British interests

It is my opinion that Great Britain will be facing a tri-partite pact consisting of Austria, Draka, and Persia. At this time, Austria has moved to annex Macedonia, an action Britain found agreeable but, to my knowledge, did not anticipate so soon. This drastically alters our strategic requirements in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Of primary importance is that we increase our deployment of dreadnoughts to the area, for stationing on Tenedos. Granted that currently, Great Britain faces few naval threats to our home waters, and certainly nothing that can compete with the Home, now Grand, Fleet, it is my opinion that we remove a full third of our pre-dreadnought battleships from the Reserve Fleet, particularly from the Dominion Class, and station them abroad. India and the Far East squadron should be capable of dealing with just about any threat from any nation's ships.

Regarding our presence in the Middle East, it is my opinion that we increase troop deployment to the Suez Corridor, and position the Royal Highlanders, South Wales Borderers, Coldstream and Grenadier Guards to the region, to join the King's Own Cameron Highlanders and the Yorkshire Regiments. Greater deployment of the newer artillery designs created by the Americans to the area, along with the Maxim machine guns is a must.

Regarding the lease on Palestine, under no circumstances should Britain evacuate the area. Barring a Persian offer to demilitarize the Sinai and Palestine, British presence should remain there as long as possible.

[Condottiero]

Imperial Chinese Coastal Region Command
Shangai
February, 27

The attacks over the americans would not alter their plans. The crews continued their exercises while more and more materials were transferred to the Philippines in order to minimize the consequences of a blockade in case the British fleet arrived.

The local foundries were preparing two huge mortars that could be used in the siege of Hong Kong. They would be carried by railroad to central China where they would be tested and then they would wait for the right moment.

With Hong Kong, Shangai and Manila in Imperial hands they would control most of trade in the region.

[Galbatorix]

message from the shah to his brother the bristish emperor

dear brother, i see with great concer the situation of our jewish brothers in palestine. i consider that they would feel in a better situation under persian tutelage rather than under european one. there are lots of jewish oficers in my administration and they will feel more confortable under them. the presence of your troops to keep public order is also a enormous waste for you as you surely need them somewhere.
the peace of allah be with you


TRANSLATION: pull your troops out of palestine we want to cancel the lease contract.

[Bulgaroktonos]

message from the shah to his brother the bristish emperor

dear brother, i see with great concer the situation of our jewish brothers in palestine. i consider that they would feel in a better situation under persian tutelage rather than under european one. there are lots of jewish oficers in my administration and they will feel more confortable under them. the presence of your troops to keep public order is also a enormous waste for you as you surely need them somewhere.
the peace of allah be with you


TRANSLATION: pull your troops out of palestine we want to cancel the lease contract.

Message from HMG to Persian Shah

Most esteemed friend; His Majesty, Edward VII, King of Great Britain and Ireland and Emperor of India, finds your claims dubious. Certainly you are aware that Palestine has done remarkably well under European tutelage. Persia has not even ruled in Palestine for more than a few years, as compared to the 8 under British and 4 under Austrian rule. Rest assured that the Jews within Palestine are treated magnificently, as a great many of them are indeed British citizens, whom we could not fathom leaving alone in a far off land without the protection of the Royal Navy, or at least some assurances that their rights shall be protected. Your Jewish officers and our advisors have a most excellent rapport, as Britain is by far the most accepting of all the European countries, and our support for the establishment of a Jewish home land in Palestine has existed publicly for quite some time.

It is in this vein that we ask that you, concurrently with HMG, declare the establishment of the state of Israel on the land Britain has leased from you. It will be free of Persian or British involvement, barring the invitation of either nation's representatives, and it's neutrality and borders shall remain inviolate assured by both parties........

[Imajin]

To: The Persian Empire
From: The Empire of Armenia-Trebizond

In the terms of the agreement which formed the Sultanate of Turkey out of the remaining Anatolian portions of the Ottoman Empire, the Empire of Armenia-Trebizond wishes to inform the Shah's Government that we shall be taking advantage of that section of the agreement which gives Armenia-Trebizond the right to build bases within Turkish Territory.

This move is merely to increase the ability of our nation to help move troops across the country, and we hope that there will be no objections.

HIM Alexandra I
Empress of Trebizond
Queen of Armenia

[perdedor99]

Excerpts of Draka's Security Directorate Intelligence Briefing Document February 18th 1899

Expected reactions first year American, African and Western European nations:

1) Mauriafrica

They must likely will start as neutrals but we know where their sympathies lie and must likely join the war to help their friends. They are expected to launch offensives against both the Austrians and us. While we consider offensive against us will fail due to the number of forces we have earmarked to the defense on the area, the Austrian one is another story. Their numbers in the province are less than the expected forces the enemy could use in an offensive in the area and the use of gas could be a shock for the Austrians forces. If their European allies don’t lent a hand they could lose the whole province except by coastal strips by the end of the year.

2) Austral Confederation

They must likely start the war as neutrals but they are very friendly with the Mauriafricans. In case of war we expect them to support them with weapons, supplies and maybe volunteer troops from the former Mauri colony. We will not attack shipping coming or going to the Mauri ports so not to give a reason to the Australs to join the war.

3) New Granada

They seem they will start as neutrals but their sympathies are well known. Their commerce must not be attack at all to ensure their continued neutrality.
The are the most neutral of the American nations and we should do our outmost to keep them in that posture.

4) United States

They must likely start neutral but due to their commitments in both Asia and Europe are the most likely of the Americans nations to join the war except for Canada. Their manpower, while limited during the first year, will be enormous by year two and their fleet is only second to the British Fleet in the world. They are an enemy that could not be taken slightly. The lack of troop transports will impede the landing of forces in enemy controlled beaches or ports during the first year but those same troops could be moved to friendly controlled ones fairly easy. A serious threat, especially in Asia during the first year but the possibility exist some forces could be helping the Mauris on the first year on the African front.

5) Canada

They will join the war as soon as the British are on it. While a small force in comparison with the others American nations, they complement the British fairly well and are more of a threat in Asia during the first year due to the large presence of their forces in their Asian co-dominions.


6) New Albion

Small nation and mostly unimportant but will must likely join the war due to them being bound by treaty to help the British in case of an attack to the former. While their help will be small compared with the one other nations can give, their small forces could be useful in the Pacific area.

7) France

Difficult to judge which way they could go. They were denied colonies in the scramble that the Event caused and suffered terrible casualties in the Oldenberg War of 1886. We consider they could go for an attempt to get colonies but their fear of the Germanic nations will keep them out of the conflict until a winner of the conflict can be seen and them they will join the side is winning. Not to be taken slightly, a very powerful army concentrated in a very small area.

8) Catalan State and Castilian State

Puppets of the Mauriafricans and a possibility of them joining the war in case of their patron joining can’t be discarded. While their support will be minimal compared with the one from other nations, their help in resources and manpower can’t be underestimated.

9) Navarre-Portugal

Contrary to the other nations on this report, their sympathies lie on the opposite side of the fence. Still they most likely stay neutral due to their isolated position in regard to their possible friends and will be suicidal to join the war until a clear winner is certain. A decent naval force and army, it could take a very strong force to defeat them.

[perdedor99]

Excerpts of Draka's Security Directorate Intelligence Briefing Document February 20th 1899

Expected first year deployment forces British Empire

1)Australia

In our opinion the Australians will respond to a call to arms from the Empire as fast as they can. How big and how soon their presence could be felt is a matter that depends of the availability of transport and weapons to equip this force. Their final deployment will depend of the situation at the time. Naval forces are minimal.

2)Canada

We consider the main use of the Canadian forces will be on the Pacific due to the current deployment of a big part of their armed forces in the Pacific Rim. Still is a possibility to see Canadian forces in Africa or Europe by the end of the year. Very well trained forces, they fit in the plans of the British Empire and they could be very dangerous. The naval forces are very decent and are built to complement the British Navy. These forces could see action from the very beginning in any front.

3)India

India has the biggest military presence in the British Empire but the name Indian army is a misnomer. The armed forces of India are divided in different armies according to areas but their quality overall is excellent. The only disadvantage they face right now is the size of the area they are assigned to is enormous compared to the troops available at this time. The Indian armed forces have under their responsibility not only the Dominion of India but also the protectorates in Tibet, Yunnan, Indochina, Siam, Malaya, Burma, the East Indies and the British enclave in Hong Kong. A very difficult task for the Indian nation and any movement of troops out of the theater could affect the defense of this Dominion. These Dominion naval forces are capable but less prepared than the army due to their lack of experience compared to the above branch. Still their equipment is very good and could make up for many mistakes their lack of experience could commit.

4)Great Britain

The British soldier is the second best soldier on this planet man per man after our own Citizen Force trooper. Luck of our nation they don’t have enough to cover all their areas of responsibility with the forces available and they are forced to make some decisions in regard to deployment and defense. Still their forces are well trained and are lavished equip. A very though foe indeed, still no quarter should be given and no mercy be expected from them. Their naval forces are the best in the world without a doubt and they surely will rule the seas except by some local theaters early on. Any confrontations with their main forces need to be avoided except in case of superior equipment on our part or under total surprise.

[Galbatorix]

imperial palace
tehran
march, 13 1899

the channel had been finally abandoned. the persians suspected that the british had killed it in favor of suez and that the death of the philantropist that was supporting it was only an excuse. the shah looked at the plans again, when the british have been expeled of palestine they will continue building it.

at the moment he had more plans. the birtish have refused to retreat, the shabak chief oficer had told him that there was a plan to create unrest in palestine. they controled in part one catolic group in savoy that did not agreed with the ideas of the pope. the "catholic traditio" group thought it was a armenian millonaire who was after them. they were going to use them to make some atacks in palestine over some synogoges. the jews must think they are not wanted in the british empire and must feel they will be better with jewish persian functionaries over them. he gave orders to start the plan, the first atacks over jewish civilian obejtives will start in a couple of weeks.

but he had some other things to think about "i will sign the permision for armenian bases in turkey, we need peace with them now."

[Galbatorix]

Message from HMG to Persian Shah

Most esteemed friend; His Majesty, Edward VII, King of Great Britain and Ireland and Emperor of India, finds your claims dubious. Certainly you are aware that Palestine has done remarkably well under European tutelage. Persia has not even ruled in Palestine for more than a few years, as compared to the 8 under British and 4 under Austrian rule. Rest assured that the Jews within Palestine are treated magnificently, as a great many of them are indeed British citizens, whom we could not fathom leaving alone in a far off land without the protection of the Royal Navy, or at least some assurances that their rights shall be protected. Your Jewish officers and our advisors have a most excellent rapport, as Britain is by far the most accepting of all the European countries, and our support for the establishment of a Jewish home land in Palestine has existed publicly for quite some time.

It is in this vein that we ask that you, concurrently with HMG, declare the establishment of the state of Israel on the land Britain has leased from you. It will be free of Persian or British involvement, barring the invitation of either nation's representatives, and it's neutrality and borders shall remain inviolate assured by both parties........

the declaration of an independent state of israeil will be seen by persian shah as a declaration of war.

[Galbatorix]

sviergstan
march, 3 1899

it was the first time the rebel groups in norgestan and in danestan had adresed to the sviergstan vizier. old grudges had keep them apart. but this time all the men were talking again about reunification. the first eforts will be made against the british ocupied areas in norgestan and in some danestani islands. the vizier representative asked to work slowly and carefuly their austrian alies have told them to wait for the right moment. until then they have to wait, get prepared and get some weapons in persia, draka or wherever they were able. perhaps the exiled skandistanians in draka can provide them with guns, machine guns and explosives. the angliyan will be expeled first.

[Glen]

OOC: Galb, this entire week is supposed to be February. You're posting a bit early....

[perdedor99]

February 20th 1899 11:08hrs
Archona, Domination of Draka

The Archon continue to read and sign requests and orders at a fast clip, almost like a machine. "The job of a leader never ends." he thought while reading and signing. "A request for the recruitment of one million more janissaries from the Supreme General Staff? The combines will not like this at all. Better meet with the operating officers to explain." He wrote approved and signed underneath.

"A request from the Security Directorate to sell small arms and ammo to Sverigestan? I thought they were a Austrian puppet? Sure, why not." he smiled at the mischief this weapons could do in the future and approved the sale.

"More serfs needed for the construction of coastal defenses?" He approved it without thinking. He knew how powerful his enemies navies where.

"Issue of bigger caliber AAS guns to all cities and border fortifications? Why we already have AAS guns on that locations." He read further into the reasons and understood. He signed the request.

"My hand is hurting.Better take a quick recess." he stand up and walked on the direction of the window. The sky was full of dark clouds and rain was coming to Archona. "There is a coming storm on the way and I hope we survive it."

[Bulgaroktonos]

the declaration of an independent state of israeil will be seen by persian shah as a declaration of war.

Britain is saying that Persia and Britain should cooperate to create a State of Israel. The proposal will be announced this week. We don't plan on announcing it ourselves.....

[Bulgaroktonos]

Excerpt from the Times January 30th, 1899

Prime Minister the Marquis of Salisbury, along with the vast majority of the House of Lords and the Commons declared that they had invited the Persian Shah to create a home land for the Jews in the British lease of Palestine, ot be named Israel......

[DuQuense]

Britain does not lease Palestine. It holds the Lease on the Kingdom of Jerusalem,

[Imajin]

Though isn't Jerusalem itself excluded?

[Imajin]

Senate Hall
Trebizond
Armenia-Trebizond

"With all due respect to Your Majesty," bowed Senator Basil Alixandadros, "I propose an immediate withdrawl from the Eastern Bloc Pact."

Constantine I, King of Cilicia, Emir of Karaman, and who since the Union Act had a Senate Seat as well, immediately spoke up. "The nation's honor is at stake here! You change your mind to favor the British, but that does not change the past! I shall support no pulling out!"

Janus de Lusignan, King of Cyprus (and Titular claimant to a number of other titles) disagreed. "We have signed the agreement, however, we can pull out easily enough. And the British, well, the English particularly, have helped my island. I see no reason why we should have grievances against them."

An Austrophilic Armenian Noble, Robert Tzhnakhan, spoke against the King. "The English helped Cyprus? They installed a Latin government that oppresses it's citizens even today!"

Janus jumped at the affront. "You dare call me an oppressor? I have done great things for my people!"

Tzhnakhan replied. "Hah! You and Cilicia both started at the same level, but we all know Cyprus is still mostly stuck in the past."

Janus drew his sword, shouting "Filthy Armenian!", which caused Alexandra, who as Empress was also moderator, to speak. "The code of the Senate bars fighting!" she paused. "We shall recess for one day, and hopefully you, both of you, will have cooled off by then."

[Bulgaroktonos]

Britain does not lease Palestine. It holds the Lease on the Kingdom of Jerusalem,

Then the lease on the Kingdom of Jerusalem. Either way, the amount of Jews pouring in there is huge. Britain has publicly supported it for years, the Austrians before that.....there are likely to be more Jews there now than everybody else combined......

[DuQuense]

ten mile ring around the city not in the lease, immigration limited to 45,000/year (Austria never enforced the Limit very strictly, don't know about Britain) So there are half a Million Zionists there, on top of the half a million 1400 AD- Jews, Christians and Muslims. Probably as a Growth area It has pulled Persians as Well.

I see the Zionists being just over a third a Third of the Population, with Jewish, in total, being Close to 45%. And there is no auguring here if Israel is West of the Jordon or the whole area, of the Palestine Concession, so they are spread out over the whole kingdom.

Persia has let them into the Military, [Unlike most OTL countries ] So if they do gain their Independence due to the War, They will be able to establish their own rules on Immigration.

[Bulgaroktonos]

Great Britain
Home Office
Feb. 5th

Lord Kitchener spoke up. As the Minister responsible for the managing of Britain's war effort, it was his duty to inform the other ministers as to how they could go about securing victory and what they had to do it with. Lord Salisbury looked very ill these days, the death of his wife had been a great blow, and if rumor was to be believed, he would be retiring soon. And with Randolph Churchill as the likely successor as PM, and a determined fighter at that, Kitchener had high hopes that Britain would find the resolve to defeat her many enemies.

"Gentlemen, this is a difficult time for us. We are stretched thin across the board. We cannot have our allies fight for us. We must realize that at least for a year, it will be nearly all British and Dominion soldiers fighting across the globe in every corner against our villainous foes. We have our weak points, Suez first among them. It, at all costs, must be held. Our best and finest soldiers defend it, and we can be sure that they shall do their duty to King and Country when the time for sacrifice draws nigh. It is because of their sacrifice and their faith in our great land that we must do ours as well, and destroy all resistence that can prevent our ships and soldiers from reaching the Suez to help them in what will surely be a battle that all time will remember, not only for the glory and heroism of the Canal's defenders, but because it will be the first modern battle. The casualties will be unlike any seen since 1886, if not worse.

Secondly we must recognize the problem we face in Africa and Aden. They are both vital to our connexion with the rest of the Empire. If possible they must be held. However, we lack the resources. Most of our soldiers will be tied down in the Suez, Greece, or elsewhere. Thus, we need to assure the Ethiopians that we shall defend them, and protect them, for they are a source of soldiers who's fanaticism will rival the Khalifa's. They remember the horrors the Draka, and if we can show them that we are willing to fight and die for them and the defence of their homes, then we shall have a force willing to fight to the very end......"

[Condottiero]

Though isn't Jerusalem itself excluded?
Yep, I have checked. Galba put as condition south of Jerusalem and the town was excluded...

[Condottiero]

Imperial Palace
Forbidden City (Beijin)
February 11th, 1899


The first steam tanks were arriving to Shangai and the emperor was pleased. At last good news after the report given by the Head of the Secret Police, Juan María Pan Ting. The men killed by the american troopers came from a remote region in Western China, they left their villages after somebody from the Capital paid for their services. But nobody knew who it was, but as for the traces he had left it was someone close to the Imperial Authorities. He had the feeling someone was trying to start a war that the Emperor did not wish to.

He ordered to deploy in the area Hispanic and Tagalog policemen with Secret Police to keep an eye on them. His troop deployment would have to be changed. The steam tanks would be deployed near American territory, they would have to fortify the region and they would recruit some more militians in the region to reinforce the defenses just in case they felt they had to help the British.

[Galbatorix]

imperial palace
tehran
march, 13 1899

the channel had been finally abandoned. the persians suspected that the british had killed it in favor of suez and that the death of the philantropist that was supporting it was only an excuse. the shah looked at the plans again, when the british have been expeled of palestine they will continue building it.

at the moment he had more plans. the birtish have refused to retreat, the shabak chief oficer had told him that there was a plan to create unrest in palestine. they controled in part one catolic group in savoy that did not agreed with the ideas of the pope. the "catholic traditio" group thought it was a armenian millonaire who was after them. they were going to use them to make some atacks in palestine over some synogoges. the jews must think they are not wanted in the british empire and must feel they will be better with jewish persian functionaries over them. he gave orders to start the plan, the first atacks over jewish civilian obejtives will start in a couple of weeks.

but he had some other things to think about "i will sign the permision for armenian bases in turkey, we need peace with them now."
please consider it as february 13th (?was it friday?)


jerusalem
february 15th

part of the workers of the chanel arrived to jerusalem. there the persian authorities ofered them to work in the new railroad lines that will join amman with jerusalen withouth going to damascus. they thought that maybe the persian government will pay them what their former canadian boss did not.

jerusalem had growth a lot due to trade between the protectorade of israel and persian syria. here the population was mostly the original one before the event, but more and more jews from the persian empire were arriving as well as muslims from all the world and armenians. the pope was also building a new cathedral in the chrsitian neighbourhood.

[Ward]

Feb 8 1899

Paris France

Marshal Fock to the General Stalf . The Army is well trianed and well lead .

We will see how the army works this summer when we call the res up in July and run a training of the Corps and Armys with all there units .

This will be the first time all the corps and Armys will be together .

Well publish the orders and let the people know that all the res .will be called up to age 35 . Make sure we have food and houseing ready for an extra 2.9 million men .

The training will last from july to midle of Aug .

Let the US know about this as well as Germany we do not want them to think we are going to War at that time .

Also send invations out to Persia, Germany, UK, the US, to send officers to observe the manuvers .

[Bulgaroktonos]

please consider it as february 13th (?was it friday?)


jerusalem
february 15th

part of the workers of the chanel arrived to jerusalem. there the persian authorities ofered them to work in the new railroad lines that will join amman with jerusalen withouth going to damascus. they thought that maybe the persian government will pay them what their former canadian boss did not.

jerusalem had growth a lot due to trade between the protectorade of israel and persian syria. here the population was mostly the original one before the event, but more and more jews from the persian empire were arriving as well as muslims from all the world and armenians. the pope was also building a new cathedral in the chrsitian neighbourhood.

On a side note Galb, there are going to be a ton of Jews in Jerusalem. Not from the 1400s, but from ME7. The Austrians and British have both been encouraging immigration to the leased Kingdom of Jerusalem. It is only logical that at least some of the Jews will be moving to Jerusalem.....

[Glen]

On a side note Galb, there are going to be a ton of Jews in Jerusalem. Not from the 1400s, but from ME7. The Austrians and British have both been encouraging immigration to the leased Kingdom of Jerusalem. It is only logical that at least some of the Jews will be moving to Jerusalem.....

Although a lot of more urbane, professional, assimilationist Jews will have immigrated to New Granada, where they have been accepted with open arms.

[Othniel]

Although a lot of more urbane, professional, assimilationist Jews will have immigrated to New Granada, where they have been accepted with open arms.
While we in Mauriafrica seem to be gathering the more religous and corperate of types of Christians moving from Europe, and from the small christian communities in Damascus.

[Bulgaroktonos]

Although a lot of more urbane, professional, assimilationist Jews will have immigrated to New Granada, where they have been accepted with open arms.

You can have the professionals!!!! The Lease is getting the intellectuals, the farmers, and the fanatics........

[perdedor99]

February 22th 1899 13:18hrs
Tanganika, Dominion of Draka

Dr. Hassansen was on hand for the arrival of the first of his Land Leviathans to this isolated train station that the only purpose it had was to supply this section of the forces bordering British Kenya. The 20 Leviathans arrived covered and the crews arrived earlier today in another train so as soon as the train with the Leviathans stopped the raced to their assigned vehicles and began the preparations to unload them from the trains.

Dr. Hassansen knew this will take a while due to the size and the space available for the unloading but he wanted to see the face of military personnel on the station when they uncovered the first one. He smiled as soon as he saw the open mouths of many, in awe of the size of the armored monster that roared like a thousand lions. The eyes stared at the 75mm gun on front and to the four 37mm semi auto guns on the sides with envy. He heared comments like: "that thing is gigantic" or "that is a lot of guns in one vehicle", and he swelled with pride. "My adoptive nation has maybe the biggest armored vehicle in the world, build with only one purpose, to support infantry in breaking enemy lines." he thought while staring at the now moving vehicle while the crews began to start the off loading of the next one. "The steam cars can be the new cavalry, my precious are the new mobile artillery."

[perdedor99]

February 22th 1899 14:27hrs
Archona, Domination of Draka

Short memo send by the Archon to the Supreme General Staff Arch-Strategos in charge.

From: Archon James Stewart

To: Arch-Strategos Fitzhugh Lee

The actions of Persia could force the British into declaring war to them. If so we will be forced by the current treaty with the former to joint that struggle. Please hurry any arrangements needed to fulfill those obligations if forced to do so. I have complete confidence in the abilities of the Supreme General Staff to complete the possible task ahead in a satisfactory manner and with the help of the Christian God and the will of Allah we will be the ones that savor victory. Long life to the Domination!

[perdedor99]

February 22nd 1899 08:48hrs
Croatian Province, Central European Empire

General Hans Metzger was sitting reading the paper while riding in style on his own compartment to the field exercises that were announced for early March in the new province of Macedonia. "The biggest concentration of the Empire forces ever.The two Bulgarian divisions and the Albanian joined by the two Hungarian ones, the Dalmatian, the Imperial Guards, three cavalry divisions and my own Lower Austria Division. A very impressive force indeed." he thought for a second as he read in the papers about the exercise. It was being downplayed in the papers like a very minor exercise. "The hell it is." he changed the page.

He was travelling ahead of his division to scout the area his division will be staying during the training. He hoped it was close to Constantinople. "They told me the night life is wild in that city." He continued to read the paper while ringing the bell for service. "maybe some coffee will be nice."

[perdedor99]

February 22nd 1899 14:56hrs
Pola, Central European Empire

"It's this right?" asked Admiral von Krausser to his aide,"Did the wireless operator copy the message right?"

"Yes sir, I double checked it. These are the orders of the military aide for the Emperor himself. His orders are quite specific." the aide responded.

"You know what this means? We will be violating many rules of engagement doing this but the order of the Emperor are to be obeyed." was the response of the Admiral. "Are we getting more of those infernal things?

"Sir, all available stocks should be shipped to the area he requested and production is being raised to cover possible uses somewhere else."

The Admiral just nodded in defeat, wrote the order releasing all available stocks to that naval command and pass the order to the aide.

"We are violating the gentlemen rules that have rule warfare since the beginning of time. I hate this new world." lamented the Admiral while his aide left the room to deliver the order.

[Condottiero]

ST. Peter Cathedral
Ash Wednesday (February, 15) 1899

Pope Leo XIII looked at the people gathered to celebrate Ash Wednesday and hoped that the crazyness that had flooded the world ended like the carnival celebrations. He could not understand how catholic and christian leaders were showing such willingness to start a war. He just hoped the preparation of his new encyclica, 'On a Christian view of solving conflicts', were more advanced. They would have to wait a few months, as he did not want it to make mistakes. He wondered if his new christian republic would be destroyed during the oncoming storm.

[Galbatorix]

february, 16 1899
jerusalem

admiral fathi, governor of syria, adress to the press.

"the persians government is very worried about the situation of our jewish brothers in the mandate of israel. we have heard about anti-semite attacks led by christian radicals.

we are also worried about the british plans of partitioning persia by taking apart the territory to the south of jerusalem that was leased first to the austrians and then to the british. we want to warn the british authorities that such a measure will not be accepted by the persian governement and will afect to the perso-british relations. if such a thing takes place we will carry the british empire to court for breaking a signed treaty and denounce them before all the international comunity. the world will know that the british do not keep their word and use force against the weak and poor.

it is also matter of concern the amount of spies and agents in the before mentioned territory. we require the british authorities to reduce the number of military and intel personel in the area as a gesture of goodwill and of willing to keep the word about the mandate lease contract.

finally we want to anounce that the persian governement will continue the works of the aqaba chanel as a way of developing and creating richeness in the area. we would like to encourage colonists from all persia to settle around it and profit of the works and the future earnings. however until we regularize the contracts with civilian workers several regiments of the imperial army will resume the works.

the peace of allah may be with all of you."

[perdedor99]

February 23rd 1899 14:33hrs
Archona, Domination of Draka

Archon Stewart read the latests reports from Persia with both interest and concern. "The Persians accused the British military mission in Persia of being a nest of spies and kick them out. It took them long enough. I guess they will be asking another nation to take over their role. I wonder who that could be." He smiled at his own silly joke.

But what he found more interesting was the way they took over, without asking anyone, the works on the Aqaba Canal. "I bet the British must be mad. Now they have Persian soldiers entering the Kingdom, technically Persian territory so they are on their rights, to end a major construction project. And they are offering good wages so probably we see some laborers from the poor areas moving into the area. The conflict is getting worse and worse. The Persians are raising the stakes."

[Lauranthalas]

Feb. 28
Somewhere in the Himalayas (Russia)

General Kirov was seeing over his troops. They are trained, they ahve a great moral and they can fight in any situaion. The altitude camps made his army strong. The high lands and the maneuvers in tropical rainwoods of southern Siberia were a brilliant idea. The mountains are in their hands and they will stay. not even the desert will be able to stop them

[Lauranthalas]

Feb. 18th

Siberia

Some Researchers are starting to build balloons for the Russian airships so that they can fly with up to 1/2 He in H. They will then be deployed with 3/8th He in H.

[perdedor99]

February 24th 1899
Budapest, Central European Empire

"The Land Ironclad Division has been ordered to Libya. Effective immediately." Colonel Istvan Laszlofi commander of the 2nd Regiment was furious. That meant he have to leave his two mistresses behind but at least the chance of combat was at hand. “Well I guess better give the news to the men. The whole division to Libya! What is on the minds of the General Staff?” He took the letter and left his office in the direction of the officers mess. “Need to inform the officers. I bet they will be as happy as I am.”

[Ward]

France Armys land ships

[Ward]

Feb 27 1889

Landing in the Suez Canal Area are two Div's of French Inf. 18th an 27th .
They have also land the the HQ and support units for the XVIII Corps.

These Troops are here to make sure the Canal will stay open for all neutrals in case of a war .

We have also landed 60 days of basic loads for the units and Food for a year .

This is 50,000 men in all .

[perdedor99]

Excerpts of Draka's Security Directorate Intelligence Briefing Document February 23rd 1899

Expected Allies in case of conflict:

1)Central European Empire

Even when our nations fought a short war that lasted less than a year, we now consider the same nation to be the biggest threat to both our nation’s plans. Their army suffered a massive transformation from the multinational army into an Imperial one but the road was bumpy. The conflict between our nations was a learning experience for their forces and we can say they are a very professional force. The main problem we notice is the bad disposition of their forces right now in regard to their immediate plans, but is understandable due to the many possible threats this nation has to face. Also the available manpower maybe is in our opinion not enough to deal with many crisis at the same time and they could be forced to call up the reserves from early on in any conflict, putting their economy under strain in the long run.

Their navy is similar to ours but larger in size. We consider that except for the newest dreadnoughts and cruisers their fleet will be only a minor threat to the Royal Navy’s presence in the Mediterranean but the units mentioned above are very capable but not in enough quantity to be more of a nuisance if the Royal Navy decide to use brute force in the area.

2)Kingdom of Persia

The nation closest to ours in terms of diplomatic and military cooperation. Very capable and after the debacle of the Armenian border incidents well led due to the Shah’s shake up in the leadership positions. Their army is well equip with our nations weapons and they have received excellent training from the European military missions in charge of their training. The main problem is that exactly. Their instructors are the same ones that most probably will be their enemy and that equal bad news in regard to intelligence. We consider the British must have a dossier in every single officer and the location of every single unit somewhere on file in London. We consider the first step that needs to be taken by the Persian’s is to expel the British military mission to that country.

Their navy is small but very well trained. They are building their own destroyers and torpedo boats and they could be helpful as part of a bigger fleet. Still by themselves they are no more than a nuisance to the Royal Navy.


Probable allies:

3)Kingdom of China

Increasing differences in the area are pushing in our opinion the Chinese Kingdom on a collision course with the British Empire thru their client state Canada. The recent increase of military forces by the Canadians in their coastal enclave is being responded by the Chinese in kind thanks to our most generous sale of military hardware. We consider the Chinese by themselves to be no more than a distraction for the enemy due to the small size of their experienced forces. We think they most likely will be defeated in any conflict in the area if by themselves and could be possible they lose the coastal areas and the area around Beijing, still due to the size of the country is probable they survive in the interior and as such tie enemy forces on the area. On the other hand, as part of a possible coalition of nations in the area against the British they most definitely are a nice complement for any force in the area.

Their navy is very small and in most cases obsolete but the location of their province of the Philippines is very strategic. While any invasion force could easily defeat the naval forces in the area, the land forces in the province are another story. The best and most veteran native forces are stationed on this island and in enough quantity to inflict serious damage to any force attempting to take the area.


4)Kingdom of Armenia-Trebizond

The foreign relations between this nation and the British Empire have been very cold since the Greek Civil war of 1892. They still have dreams of expansion and eyed the Greek islands near Asia Minor and the Bosphorus with greedy eyes. Their army and navy are small but they have the advantage of concentration of forces and very motivated forces. This nation could be useful in case of war as part of a coalition.


Possible Allies:

5)Kingdom of Russia


This nation is bound by treaty to both the Persian Kingdom and our nation in case of being attacked by a third party. In case of the Persians or us be the aggressors, they are also bound to at least stay in preferential neutrality in our favor. The chances of them joining any conflict in our side are 50% with close to a 75% or more of them staying on the sidelines but supporting our war cause. The preferred option of course for our nation will be the first one.

Their help can’t be measured. They have the biggest army in the world before recalling the reserves and calling just the first line reserves we calculate they double the size of their army to over three million men. A force like that could change the scope of any war. While a little behind in the industrial side of warfare, the size and scope of their armed forces made them the most important nation in the world at this time. They need to be courted to ensure at the very least their benevolent neutrality.

Their Navy is small but in the case of the capture of the Bosphorus by any force their Black Sea Squadron could be very helpful in the Mediterranean waters. Their naval forces by themselves are not a big threat, but in combination with other forces are complements to any major fleet.

6)Empire of Japan

The Empire of Japan could go to either side. They were under political isolation for close to 13 years to consolidate their territorial gains immediately after the Event but now their desires to further expand their Empire are well know. The problem is which way they could go. Will they try to expand on the mainland or try to gain access to the oil rich fields of the East Indies? With the further development of oil engines the need for oil is being more important to the developing nations and the oil fields of Sumatra and Borneo are a tempting target.

They have a very large army and their navy is one of the largest in the world. A very valuable ally to whatever side they join in a conflict. We consider that is a possibility they start any war as neutrals but their desire for expansion eventually will push them into any future conflict. After Russia, the nation most courted in the world.

7)Confederation of Germany


The Confederation is also a nation that could go to either side. This nation is very similar to France in that the Event left them without overseas colonies and suffered serious casualties during their second attempt of expansion after their annexation of polish territory during the Oldenberg War of 1886. Still they consider this war a victory of sorts thanks to the compromise brokered up by the British that ended that war and created the current German Confederation in the middle of 1886. They continued their expansion with their annexation of Danestan in the middle 1890’s and they are still fighting some resistance movements inside the region.

Very large army covering a very small region, the Germans joining either side depends of their priorities. If they desire African colonies they could either side but if their desires are closer to their borders most likely they will be have to side with us to achieve that goals.

Their navy is small compared with the Royal Navy but in combination with other nation’s fleets in the area they could be a serious threat to the British Home Fleet. In our opinion they are more a threat as a fleet in being but that opinion could be academic if they join the other side.


8)Kingdom of Karelia

The Karelians have seen the British as rivals since the Skandistani Civil War, blaming them for their veiled threat of intervention if the Karelians tried to annex the whole area, only to in the middle 1890’s letting the Germans annex Danestan after concessions were given to them. That is the only reason we can see them joining the conflict on our side. We consider they can get more territorial concessions joining our enemies but if the Russians join our side they could be in a terrible bind if they follow this approach. Their best course of action is to wait and see which side Russia turns if at all.

Their army and navy are small compared with other forces in Europe but for the Scandinavian area they are a very serious threat due to their good training and equipment. They could defeat any force in the region except maybe the Austrian expeditionary force and even them could be overwhelmed by the Karelians due to their numerical superiority of the later.

[perdedor99]

February 23rd 1899, 15:27hrs
Zanzibar, Domination of Draka

Arch-Strategos Arn Svenson continue to read the reports regarding the British naval presence in East Africa with apprehension. “Three pre-dreadnoughts in Mogadishu and two more in Mombassa, still more powerful than anything we have except the Domination and her sisters. Need to come up with a plan to neutralize that units in case of hostilities.”

Arn began to study the numbers and the quality of the forces available to his fleet and the more he studied the numbers, the more disappointed he became. “ The Dominations are too valuable to risk in chance encounters with those ships. We have the advantage in speed, armor and range but they are the only six we got, while the British have many more like them to replace their losses.”

He them read the specifications of the Leopard class cruisers and also shook his head. “They have enough armor to resist up to 12” guns but their armament is too weak to face enemy pre-dreadnoughts. Maybe the most powerful cruisers in the Indian Ocean but against pre-dreads they are no good.”

He continued to revise his options and finally after a while he gave up. “Damn son of a bitches in appropriations! The fleet is just a big paper tiger. All I got to really hurt the bastard in East Africa are my torpedo boats and my airships. I will be a little more than a nuisance to the Royal Navy. Damn it!

[perdedor99]

February 24th 1899 14:22hrs
Pola, Central European Empire

General Ludwig von Ludlow continued to observe the loading of his 1st Carinthian division on the ships that were taking them to Libya. “We are the second division ordered to that province on the last two months. Something big is being planned,” he thought while continuing to observe his troops being loaded.

-----------------------------------------------

February 24th 1899 17:53hrs
Salonika, Central European Empire

Field Marshall Stefan Radesky read the reports stating the expected arrival of the units marked for the training exercise and calculating that they will be in their start up positions by the middle of next month. He was going to be on charge of the largest concentration of troops in one place since late on the 1892 war. “I hope this work out better than in that war.” He thought while recalling the withdrawal thru Madhists territory to Egypt. “This time everything will be all right.” He tried to conform himself while continuing to read the reports. But dead inside him fear was hiding, trying to get out.

-----------------------------------------

February 24th 1899 19:04hrs
Syracuse, Central European Empire

“Are this orders been authenticated?” was the question of the young naval officer to his commander during the briefing.

“Young man. These orders came directly from Fleet Headquarters. They are as good as written in stone. We will begin our mission as soon as the last units arrive to the area. With luck we will complete our mission without a problem.” Was the response of his commander.

The young one wasn’t completely convinced. “Sir, in my opinion it seems to me like a risky proposition. What if the Mauri’s suspect something?

The response was sharp and to the point. “Young man, I can see you’re are not a Party member,” a pin with the shield of the Nationalist party on the lapel of the commander’s uniform, “so I understand your resistance to this orders. But let me assure you that orders from Fleet Headquarters are as good as the word of the Emperor. And everyone,” he stared at the young officer, “know that The Crown knows best.”

The young officer only nodded. He was young but he knew better than continue his line of questioning. “I’m maybe young but not stupid.” He thought while the briefing continued.

[perdedor99]

February 24th 1899 19:28hrs
Archona, Domination of Draka

The Russian military attaché, a brigadier general called Brusilov, continued to explain to the Arch-Strategos Lee the desire of their nation to acquire more warm ports, due to the current situation of the ones they have in China.

“As you can see, sir, our nation’s warm ports in China are actually blockaded by
both the American concession and the Japanese territorial waters. Is our nation’s desire to get ports that can’t be easily blockaded, so further expansion in China is out of the question. Of course that is just my opinion and not the official policy of my nation.” He winked his eye at the Strategos and smiled.

The Strategos also smiled while taking another sip off his whiskey. “And I thought coming to this party was going to be boring.” He noticed the attaches banding together and factions seems to be trying to bring the undecided into their fold. The Persian and Austrian ones where talking with the German Confederation one while the British and New Granadian one were having drinks with the French major representing his nation on this gala. “But I have the big catch.” He smiled at that fishing reference while turning again on the direction of the Russian attaché and continued his conversation. “So what are your nation’s plan in your opinion to acquire that warm weather port?”

[perdedor99]

February 28th 1899 17:37hrs
Vienna, Central European Empire

"At least now we know were the French were going." lamented the aide to Field Marshall Conrad von Hotzendorf. “What we do now?”

“What we must do.” was the response of the Field Marshall. “Order the recall of the reserves immediately and to ship as much food and ammo that can be spared to the Swiss border fortifications and to the Italian provinces. We can have close to another 2.5 million men under arms by the end of the march. I want as many men as possible to be send to the border with France. I expect the dogs to try to stab us on the back. Let’s see them bleed themselves trying that.”

“Is possible the economy suffers under the strain.” was the response of his aide, playing his role as devil’s advocate to a hilt.

“Yes, but with their announced exercise in July they will be also under strain. We will end this before they can do anything major against us.” said the Field Marshall. trying to convince himself of that.

[General_Paul]

February 28, 1899, 11:35 AM
Berlin, German Confederation

Kaiser Wilhelm sat quietly in his study, reading over the latest reports from Japan, and Draka. A few months ago, Wilhelm decided it was time to step down, and allow his son to take power over Germany. But, with the Oldenberg problem still unsolved, the idea came to his mind only but a few weeks prior. An arranged marriage between Wilhelm II, and an Oldenberg princess had promise. Sure, many of the other nobles in Prussia had begun to marry into Oldenberg blood lines, but this, this had extreme promise. With the marriage, he could step down, and allow his son to take power with little protest from the Oldenbergs.

What he desired more than anything, was his beloved town of Munich back. It had been close to 40 years since he had walked the noble streets. Now those wretched Austrians had it. Maybe it was time to contact the French, and work out some sort of deal. For what he desired more than overseas african colonies, was one town. The town that he had grown up in, the town that he had loved as a boy. He would have the crown of southern germany back firmly in the hands of the German Confederation, no matter how many Austrians stood in his way...

Kaiser Wilhelm I
Kaiser
German Confederation

[Ward]

Paris France
23:00 hr 28th of Feb 1899

The home of Marsha Fock of France.
The Door was being pounded on .

Marshal Fock getting out of Bed heads towards the Door with a revoer in his hand . As he opens the Door A Col of the General Staff is stand there

Sir the Austians are Moblizing there Army .

Marshal Fock Stating to the Col Give me 5 min.


23:30 hrs in the office of the Minster of war Marshal Fock

Marshal Fock to his Staff Moblize the Res send the oders out now and make it for all men under 40 .
Order the Active units to the Boarders of Austria .

Do not Attack them

[perdedor99]

March 5th 1899
Archona, Domination of Draka

The Archon was furious. All the well laid plans destroyed by a traitor. "Oh, well. We are not here for being stupid. There will be another times." he thought while writing the notes. He wrote a copy to each nation that may concern and the text was plain enough:

"At this time the Domination of Draka considers suicidal to attempt any action against the British Empire due to recent events. We recommend to our friends in the world to back down and wait for better times. But for us, we will not be involved in any war with the British Empire. Period."

The notes were sealed and send by courier to the embassies. "Damn traitors! The Austrians were duped. Truly a pack of jackals with no sense of honor. Oh well. I guess we can entertain ourselves crushing the Madhists. Let offer the Mauris to purchase the damn area."

[perdedor99]

March 5th 1899 13:21hrs
Vienna, Central European Empire

Conrad von Hotzendorf read the maps with apprehension. "My forces are moving south while I need them to be moving north now. At least we cancel the move of the Land Ironclad division to Libya and the exercise in Macedonia. Still forces are out of place."

He continued to look at the map and finally made his decision."Order the forces being embarked by train to go to Salonika to instead to be shipped north. The ones already there to also be shipped north while instead of sending the recalls to the French border sent them to our border with our fellow German nation," sarcasm was on his voice,"but of course leave a sizable force to cover the fortifications on the French border. The Draka already told us they will not be involved in any European war but they will give their support with war material, as much as necessary. I guess our destiny lays north after all." He calculated his forces could be ready by the middle of March.

[perdedor99]

March 5th 14:28hrs
Northern Domination of Draka, near the Mauri border

The AS-6 transport airship was loaded with cargo for the Austrians. "They will be needing just in case." The load master told his partner while the serfs continued to load to capacity this and another six airships fro the trip to the Dalmatian coast. "Our orders are to continue loading around the clock until the stocks at hand in the area are exhausted. The Austrians just made a big purchase to the combines. We are giving what we have on hand and the combines will replace our stocks. "At least we informed the Mauris that cargo airships will be crossing their air space to deliver medicines to the Austrian nation." he smiled.

[perdedor99]

March 6th 1899 09:47hrs
Vienna, Central European Empire

Copy of note send to the French Embassy on Vienna

"We assure you nation the recent recall of our reserves is not in any way directed at your nation and as such we ask for a mutual assurances that no major increases in the number of troops in our nations' current borders will occur. We understand your concerns but you have our nation's word that no military action will be taken against your nation."

[perdedor99]

March 6th 1899 08:57hrs
Tanganikan Coast, Domination of Draka

Strategos Karl von Shakenberg, commander of the 3rd Lancer Legion, shook his head. Less than a week ago his unit and the other two lancer legions were on the British East African border. Now they were marked for embarcation for overseas as part of a "volunteer force". Draka will be neutral in any conflict but the chance to learn if the changes to the Citizen forces actually work is too great to let it slip. A small three legion corps with support units and one bomber and one gunship airship squadron each. "Not to be too noticed. Just to test some theories." Karl recited on his mind the official line for the Drakan volunteer force.

[perdedor99]

March 7th 1899 09:42hrs
Pola, Central European Empire

Admiral von Krausser was relieved the order to extend the blockade of the Adriatic to the tip of Sicily to Tunis by using mines was rescinded. Now he has an excess of mines and no where to use them. Them an idea popped into his mind. He wrote the order to move the ships disguised as fishing ships tasked for the mission of mining the Sicily area to move north. He has another thing on his mind.

[perdedor99]

March 7th 1899 02:48hrs
Dalmatia, Central European Empire

The first six Drakan airships with the medicine for the Austrians arrived two hours before in the specially build airfield near a train station. "Very damn lucky." The Drakan loadmaster rolled his eyes while the first train with 100 tons of the medicine moved north. Another 200 tons were waiting for being unload from the airships and into the trains waiting to go north. "As long as I know we are the first of many more. The combines are making a killing. We are even selling the protective suits for a large fee. They are coming in the next trip." His assistant just nodded while trying to sleep. The loadmaster just looked at him, shook his head and moved away. "There is more to see. Let the damn kaffirs unload the airship. I'm going to sleep. The security directorate escorts will protect the ship.

[perdedor99]

March 22nd 1899 13:28hrs
Vienna, Central European Empire

Text of this Speech was turned to the International Press and drop by Airships on the German-Austrian border areas. Copies also send by wireless telegraph to newspapers in the Oldenberg province.

Speech by the Central European Emperor on the eve of the War

Today, indeed, we live in a time which points to the end of treason and lies. A nation that extend their hand in friendship less than seven years ago promising friendship forever plotted shameless to dismember the nation that less than a decade before they called their brothers forever. A nation like that could only be called a nation of jackals and rats not fit to exist in the family of nations.

This view of the relation between nations is un-German and does not suit us. The German who loves his people, who believes in the greatness and the future of their homeland, and who is unwilling to see its position diminished, dare not close his eyes in the indulgence of lies and deceit such as these, he dare not allow himself to be lulled into indolent sleep by the lullabies of a Reichstag ruled by a Prussian aristocracy bend in putting into shame the good name of the German people.

Germany has behind her since the last great war that created the Confederation a period of economic prosperity, which has in it something almost disconcerting. But the chaos of trying to hold into Danestan shows a shady side of this too rapid development that often manifests itself in a painful and threatening manner. And now the greed of the Prussian junkers is turning a proud nation into a pack of jackals.

The old ideals, even the position and the honor of the nation, is now affected; the citizens of Oldenberg have now their honor been driven thru the mud, proud Germans shamed by the actions of their supposed partners. But what will stop them from crushing the institutions the Oldenberg citizens so much love and upheld when their use is finished.

But the study of history teaches us that all States recognizes when a institution time as comes to an end. We ask the people of Oldenberg to stop being the lackeys of the Prussian jackal and to recover their honor.

Therefore every Oldenberger, to whom his country is dear, and who believes in a great future for their nation, must joyfully do his part in the task of seeing that the old military spirit of their fathers is not lost and that they didn‘t die in vain 13 years before, and that it is not sicklied o'er with the pale cast of thought. For the sword alone is not decisive, but the arm steeled in exercise which bears the sword.

So I plea to the citizens of Oldenberg to declare this so called Confederation illegal from the moment their leaders in Berlin shamed the whole German race by their treacherous actions and to go to the streets and ask for their freedom.If they are willing to save the German honor give a signal and we will see you as a friend. God be with all of Oldenberg and redeem the honor of the German nation.

[perdedor99]

March 23rd 1899 05:32hrs
Austro-German Bavarian border

"The artillery barrage will start in ten more minutes." Was one of the thoughts of General Hans Metzger while preparing to launch the first rounds of a new war. "The targets and trajectories have been plotted, the men are ready and are wearing their protective clothes, the "medicines" will be mixed with the regular artillery rounds." His train of thought was interrupted by his aide asking him to come outside to see something.

The sound of gunfire was evident coming from the other side of the border. "But why? We are not attacking yet?", asked himself the General. He stood on the parapet and with his binoculars he peeked on the enemy defenses. In some sectors the flag of the nation of Oldenberg was waving with a smaller white flag under it. He was shocked but with minutes ticking away he ran to the artillery spotter position, got the coordinates of that area with the flag and ordered the artillery units assigned to that area to switch to their secondary targets. Them he used the wireless to verify if the same was occurring on the other divisions areas of responsability and they informed that indeed flags of Oldenberg are appearing on the line. A couple of minutes later the barrage that started the war began, artillery mixed with the distintive sound of mustard gas.

-----------------------------

March 23rd 13:25hrs
Austro-German Bavarian border

General Metzger was sitting in the small farm 10 kms inside enemy territory, his temporary headquarters, checking the advance of the forces in the area. "It was true. The Oldenbergers just stood there and let us thru. Oh, the Prussians fought like lions but the shock of mustard gas and the internal dissent was too much for them. We have them on the run in this sector." Still he read the numbers and was shocked of the number of casualties, especially in the reservists. "And we only have to fight in some areas, the Prussians only withdrew after the figure out they could get encircled thank to the Oldenbergers just standing there. Hope everything is also working out on the drive in Bohemia."

-----------------------------------

March 23rd 13:28hrs
Black Forest Mountains

"The terrain is not helping. Even with the Oldenbergers just standing there and letting us thru the terrain is helping the enemy. Until we get out of this mountains the terrain advantage of the enemy will slow us down." lamented Colonel Horthy to his aide. "The mustard helped but the majority of the stock is on the south. I hope we have more." He continued to lament while the enemy fighting retreat continued to get their butcher's bill on his inexperienced troops.

[Ward]

Units of the French Cav move towards the boarder of Saarland and Northern Baden-Wirttemburg with a Flag of Truce . The offer the Prussian Units a change to surrnder with Hornors .. They offer the Oldenburg uints to help liberate there home land .
The French Give these Units 3 hrs to make up there mind Before the French start there Attack .

[General_Paul]

Border of Prussia-Brandenberg
March 23, 1899

The Prussian general read over the surrender terms given by the french. "Your terms are accepted. These traterous Oldenberg bastards deserve to get spit on by every warm blooded german in europe."

Berlin, Empire of Prussia-Brandenberg

Kaiser Wilhelm read over the latest reports in the field. "Sir, we're letting the Oldenbergers surrender" An aid called out. Wilhelm nodded. "Those traterous bastards will get what's coming to them. We need to placate the french. Let them have the traters, while the real Prussians defend their homeland. If any Oldenberg forces surrender NOT in Oldenberg, shoot them. They gave oathes to defend Germany to the last, and if ANY Oldenbergers decide to surrender in the field while still in German uniform, shoot them." The generals nodded.

"Now, I think its time for us to send as many men as possible down to the Austrian border, and drive out the Austrians. Send down 350,000 men with as much ammunition as they can carry. We need every man, woman, and child to rally to defend the fatherland."

Wilhelm I
Kaiser
Empire of Prussia-Brandenberg

[Ward]

With out any shoots fired The French Armys march into Germany from Northern Baden-Wirttemberg to th Saarland with Bands Playing the Oldenburg national atherm . The French are Escorting the Prussian Army to the Old Boarders of Prussia .

[perdedor99]

March 23rd 20:48hrs
Vienna, Central European Empire.

Conrad von Hotzendorf reread the message received from the French Embassy three hours before the way a man read the release papers from prison. "Have this been authenticated?" he asked his aide.

"Yes,sir. They seem to be giving a demarche to the Prussians that should be ending in about 10 more minutes, sir." was the response of his aide.

"They still hate us. But it seems their desire to have a willing puppet on their borders instead of a former foe has won. As they say, the enemy of my enemy is my friend. At least for now. Still keep the troops on the French as a precaution." But the Field Marshall felt much better now that a couple of hours before when the movement of French troops to the German border was reported.

[Othniel]

March 23rd.
Cologe, Oldenburg

August Bebel, leader of the German Socialist Party, and a man who kept quiet for far too many years lifted his voice and pointed to the east.

"Today we rise up against the oppression of the Prussian Backstabbers. We will set forth a new goverment, one that fights for the working class man and the values that he holds dear. Today is the day in which absolutism dies in Germany. We will not be held capitive any more in our own lands, nor will we stand in the drugery of a union which cannot be held together. This tyrrany will end."


--------------

A small number of men had gathered outside Hannover under the leadership of Captain Paul Erich von Lettow-Vorbeck. He sought the quick rise that the new revolutionary army. His grouping of 3000 desereters and new recruits assembled. Their raid into Prussian territory to get supplies would have to be quick and effective.

[perdedor99]

March 24th 1899 09:48hrs
Danube River, Bavaria

General Hans Metzger stood on the southern bank of the Danube looking at the other side of the river and shook his head. "We were expecting to be on the banks of the Danube after a week of combat. We did it on 24 hours. Of course who expected the Oldenberg forces to actually refuse to fight on some sectors. The Prussians did the right thing withdrawing to better defensive positions. But we have to stop. We are outrunning our supply lines." All of a sudden, the sound of incoming artillery brought him back to reality but it was too late. The round landed mere feet from him, decapitating him and killing also his aide.The war was over for the General.

[Galbatorix]

March 24th 1899
Danestan

after thirteen years of ocupation the danestainans are rebelling. groups of danestanian guerrillas are attacking the prusian barracs. at the same time an small volunter army is entering the swedish part of danestan from sverigestan. ten thousand skandistanians with suport from two thousand austrians. more will follow them.

[Condottiero]

March 26
Rome

Press anouncement.

"The Pope met yesterday the Prussian, Austrian and French representatives in order to achieve a cease fire. The usage of violence cannot solve any proble but create new ones that will br¡ng more sufferings and pain to the world."

[Aussey]

Hofburg Palace
Vienna, Upper Austria
Habsburg Empire

Three shots were fired, and the armed mob, complete with peasants, merchants, and soldiers alike, stormed the parliament building. The radicals senators and deputies, who recently began referring to themselves as "Crown Party" memebers, joined the ranks of their countrymen, and almost instantly trapped the Imperial-Conservatives, forcing them to sign the Crown Consitution.

Emepror Louis Joseph gathered his family, and they secretly escaped the palace, before the radicals reached his room. Indeed, by the time the day was over, the Emperor, his wife, and children with a few servants and loyal guards, where well out of Vienna, on their way to Rome. The Krone-Partei Leader, Archduke Charles Francois, Cousin of Emperor Louis Joseph, and former Prince-Consort of Macedonia, declared that in the fleeing of his cousin, the Emperor was not dedicated, and Parliament declaed him "Emperor." The Crown Party (Fascist) was now in control.

The first thing on the list was to undo the anti-German policies of Louis Joseph: mainly, revenging the French for their intervention in German affairs.

[Glen]

March 26
Rome

Press anouncement.

"The Pope met yesterday the Prussian, Austrian and French representatives in order to achieve a cease fire. The usage of violence cannot solve any proble but create new ones that will br¡ng more sufferings and pain to the world."

When asked to comment on this move and his own possible involvement, the Christian Communion Council Chair, Patriarch Beneficent I of the Americas said, "We have the utmost confidence in our Brother in Christ, Pope Leo XIII. He knows best the region and the leaders involved, and has been a devoted servant to peace. All members of the Communion Council stand behind him and ready to aid his efforts in any way we may."

[General_Paul]

March 26, 1899
Berlin, Empire of Prussia-Brandenberg

Kaiser Wilhelm read the reports coming from Austria. "Gott in himmel, its a miracle! The Austrian army has ordered a cease fire on all fronts against Germany, and are sending out orders for peace accords to be drawn up. God has truenly heard the prayers of the Prussian peoples." He stood up, and walked to the window. In the distance he could see columns of Prussian men marching towards the front. "I want the men on the Austrian front to cease fire immediatly, and get our men on the rebelling Oldenberg border, back into Oldenberg. I want to take tea in Cologne by the end of the week. And give those french dogs the same terms they gave our armies in Oldenberg. Let them return to france with their arms."

Terms given the french army in Oldenberg:

You may return to france as you entered Oldenberg, with your weapons. We will not take any arms from your forces, or fire on them at all, unless they fire upon us. If you accept these terms then draw up your men, and return to france as free men. If not, be prepared to face the onslaught of the fully prepared Prussian army. God be with you.

Kaiser Wilhelm I
Kaiser
Empire of Prussia-Brandenberg

[Othniel]

March 28th
Berlin

The Revolution had spread to the very gates of the enemy, within the city Oldenburg merchants, artistans and others who had moved to the city stood against the monarchy, openly protesting the use the order to shoot Oldenburg Soldiers whom won't fight against the Austrians.

In the next moment there was gunfire, and then silence as the protesters fell to the ground dead. The revolution was fully ignited now.

"Death to the Kaiser and his trynnous ways!"

[General_Paul]

...Nice try Oth. Only difference is, the orders were given to soldiers, not to the general populus. Re-read it. And if y