Capto Iugulum: Empires and Nations

Brandenburg is confirming an alliance with Milan-Savoy.

This would be the final, 24 hour warning

Starting the process of updating now. No order revisions will be accepted beyond this point. New orders are still accepted though. As in the past, due to the long lapse between updates, any failure to receive orders will mean ejection from the NES.

EQandcivfanatic said:

Starting the process of updating now. No order revisions will be accepted beyond this point. New orders are still accepted though. As in the past, due to the long lapse between updates, any failure to receive orders will mean ejection from the NES.

Click to expand...

YESS!!!! If you have it by tomorrow evening (about 24 hours) it'll be the best Three Wise Men's present! (In Spain, we have the Three Wise Men instead of Santa)

Really? Never knew that.. cultural differences are awesome. Personally I want to celebrate NYE more than Christmas...

No more orders of any type will be accepted beyond this point.

Global News Report​

PACT OF TOLEDO. Toledo, Empire of Holy Spain. The Crisis of the Alboran Sea and the resulting diplomatic conflict between Spain and Hungary has led to a conference by Spain on the treatment of diplomats and ambassadors among civilized nations. Emperor Carlos VI has proposed a revolutionary new treaty on the treatment of these ambassadors, which has received significant acclaim among the enlightened intellectuals of Europe. The treaty authorizes the use of official guards for national embassies in foreign nations, the immunity of diplomats from prosecution for crimes in the host country (though deportation is allowed), and a guarantee of safe transport if the diplomat is expelled. The treaty supports these rights even during times of war between the involved nations. A large number of European countries have signed these accords, as well as a couple American states. The most notable exception to the signing has been the United Kingdom, which denounced the treaty as Catholic imperialism. Furthermore the pact has received little to no consideration in Asia and the Middle East, where it was virtually ignored. A number of European and American states have agreed with the tenets of the pact, but have refused to commit to it due to practical reasons or disputes with elements of the treaty, particularly in regard to espionage.

News from Europe​

REVOLUTION IN DENMARK. Copenhagen, Denmark. The Danish people, having suffered through the decline of the empire and loss of influence in Europe and across the globe, have finally had enough. With a desperate economy and poor economic situation, the Danes have risen in open revolt throughout Copenhagen and the rest of the country. The revolt soon came under the influence and control of republican liberals, as the conflict escalated to civil war. The army was torn apart in the fighting, as some supported the monarchists, while others joined the rebellion against the government. The fighting was fairly intense, but Iceland and Greenland soon joined the rebellion, as did the Danish navy, to the surprise of many. After several months of fighting, the main battle was fought outside of Copenhagen, as the monarchist army was destroyed in battle. King Christian VIII has been forced to abdicate his claim to the throne, and has been sent into exile in the more friendly state of Sweden. The new Republic of Denmark has been proclaimed, and preparations have begun for the establishment of this as a permanent democratic government. (-6 Infantry Brigades, -2 Cavalry Brigades, -2 Artillery Brigades; +3 Stability)

CORSICA SEIZES INDEPENDENCE. Ajaccio, Corsica. The Papal States, being embroiled in a vicious war against Savoy-Milan, has been unable to keep control of the provinces as well as it had. Though the mainland has been kept under control by local garrisons Corsica has been significantly more unruly. Under pressure from local nobles, the Pope was forced to cede full autonomy to Corsica, and a monarchy has been established under King Sampiero, elected by the nobility. This was immediately contested by the local chapter of the Brothers of Italy, who fought to establish control in order to unite with Savoy-Milan. The monarchists were able to garner the bulk of support, including financing from Sardinia, and crush the Italian uprising with ease. (+2 Stability for Papal States)

MARTIAL LAW IN NORWAY. Oslo, Sweden. Tensions continue to mount in dramatic proportions, as the Swedes flood Norway with soldiers to prevent or crush a major uprising. The soldiers have proven less than capable at peacekeeping and a number of unfortunate incidents have occurred resulting in numerous massacres of Norwegian protesters. Despite orders to prevent the creation of martyrs, the close proximity of soldiers to the protestors have led to growing problems and unrest. The local commander has declared martial law in Oslo, placing the military in full control of the region. Regardless, it seems that full revolution is nearing throughout Norway, as more atrocities are proclaimed in the name of maintaining stability. (-1 Stability)

UNREST AMID DEATH OF KING OF FLANDERS. Brussels, Flanders. Flanders, a nation which has seen significant amounts of unrest over the past decade, has been forced to suffer through another outbreak of riots in Brussels. Upon news of the rioting, King Charles suffered a fatal heart attack, and the nation was without its monarch. His son has been crowned King Charles II, and has had a very adverse reaction from some of the nobility. With the liberal and republican unrest at the forefront of the minds of much of the upper class, the new king was selected from among the old king's sons due to his liberal tendencies and education. The new king has announced his intention to begin instituting reforms to the government as requested by the recent demands, and has been viewed as a sign of positive change among the liberal population of Flanders. (+1 Stability)

BERLIN AND MILAN SIGN NEW ALLIANCE. Berlin, Brandenburg. As the Third Venetian War begins to escalate, the Kingdom of Savoy-Milan and Brandenburg have signed an alliance, bringing them into a unified cause in the war against Austria. The government of Brandenburg has used this as a cause to bring them into the growing war, hoping to expand their power to the south. The alliance has surrounded the Austrians, giving them a significant problem strategically. Observers state that the alliance is likely Brandenburg's response to the de facto dissolution of the Northern League, and this is a search for greater security in Europe.

WAR BETWEEN SPAIN AND HUNGARY AVERTED. Barcelona, Empire of Holy Spain. The nations of the Mediterranean Sea braced themselves this year for the eruption of a brutal and relentless war between the Empire of Holy Spain and Hungary. The dispute created by the arrest of the Spanish ambassador last year lead to a spiral of diplomatic tension between the two powers, as the nations built up to a frenzied pitch of warmongering. Tensions still remain high, particularly in the wake of Hungarian intervention in the Third Venetian War, but the Hungarians have silently released the Spanish ambassador and his staff, and they have been given a celebratory hero's return in Barcelona this year, after a circuitous route through Italy and France. The Emperor of Spain has also received a public signed letter from the King of Hungary apologizing for the incident in the Alboran Sea and regarding the imprisonment of the ambassador. The Spanish people have rejoiced in the bloodless victory humbling the Hungarians, and all those involved are treated as heroes for bearing up the barbaric treatment of the Hungarian mobs. In Hungary, the secret police have done their best to keep a lid on the news, and have continued to deny locally that the ambassador has been released. Unfortunately, news does travel, but the secret police have managed to prevent the rise of any dissent, distracting the public with the growing Third Venetian War in the west. (+1 Stability for Empire of Holy Spain)

COLLAPSE OF THE NORTHERN LEAGUE. Amsterdam, Republic of the Netherlands. The Northern League, an economic and military alliance in Northern Europe, has staggered and mostly collapsed throughout the course of the year. A number of local conflicts of interest, particularly in regard to the late intervention in Orleans, as well as colonial disputes, has led to a particularly hostile divorce of interests. The Republic of the Netherlands was the first to officially depart, denouncing the intervention in Orleans under domestic pressure. With the writing on the wall, the new republic in Denmark was quick to follow, establishing a new relationship with the Dutch. With the loss of their Dutch and Danish patrons from the alliance, Hanover soon departed as well. The departure of Hanover nearly brought war to the League, but agreements with Brandenburg soon forestalled any conflict in the region. Lastly, the final blow to the League was struck with Brandenburg's invasion of Austria and the split in the relationship between them and the Poles over the invasion. The League lies in ruins, as the involved powers begin determining their new positions in Europe as the Third Venetian War continues to escalate.

THIRD VENETIAN WAR ESCALATES. Vienna, Austria. The Third Venetian War between Austria and the Kingdom of Savoy-Milan has significantly escalated since it emerged from a failed revolution in Venice last year. The Papal States were the first to declare war upon Savoy-Milan, followed by Austria's close ally in Bavaria. The local armies were mobilized, in preparation for a major conflict. The signing of an alliance between Brandenburg and Savoy-Milan in the wake of the dissolution of the Northern League further intensified the war, opening a new front in Central Europe. Brandenburg's actions in invading Austria have sparked a response from Poland, which has begun preparing its troops for war, while financing a massive war loan to the Austrian government. Yet another major regional player would become entangled in the war as Savoy-Milan invaded Tuscany, sparking a naval response and deployment of forces from Hungary. In order to capture the true scale and size of this growing conflict, a special section has been provided for your convenience between the European and American Sections. (-1 Stability for Austria, Savoy-Milan, Brandenburg, Papal States, Bavaria, and Tuscany)

PORTUGAL BEGINS PAVING PROGRAM. Lisbon, Portugal. The Portuguese, facing a new era of reform and stability, have done their best to show that their focus is on the continental citizens of the empire. To this end, a series of roads are being surveyed and paved, in order to ease transportation and travel across Portugal itself. The effort has begun, and is believed to be a fairly cheap endeavor compared to similar programs in other European nations. On the heels of the announcement of new reform and the calling of the General Assembly, this has been a strong step forward in showing that the new government can still create and accomplish goals.

PORTUGESE CONVENE GENERAL ASSEMBLY. Lisbon, Portugal. After years of growing protest and unease among the Portuguese people, King Pedro V has at last agreed to convene a General Assembly of elected delegates. The power of the state still rests solely in the hands of the king, who has full veto power over anything proposed by the Assembly, and can disband and convene it at will. The Assembly has been elected by eligible males within Portugal, as the king hopes to alleviate some of the liberal concerns. The move has been met with success, and the liberals of Portugal commend the king for his actions pointing towards reform. Needless to say, the reactionaries who installed Pedro V are less than enthusiastic about this development, and many liberals fear that another coup may take place in the near future. (+1 Stability)

PARIS-BURGUNDY ESTABLISHES PARLIAMENT. Paris, Kingdoms of Paris-Burgundy. In a major step towards unifying the nations of Burgundy and Paris, King Louis has called for the creation of a Parliament modeled upon that of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. The system is a completely unified setup, surpassing the disparate bureaucracies which had existed to manage the two regions previously. The two-house system established has created a House of Lords for the nobility and the House of Commons for the elected masses, assuming they possess wealth and the other tell-tale signs of leadership ability. The elections are tentatively planned for every four years, but a proper system of elections has yet to be confirmed. The king has retained full control over expenses, foreign policies, and the military, but has granted some administrative capacity to the Parliament. He has also expressly forbidden the creation of any official regionalist parties, in order to curtail secessionist organizations. Liberals have viewed this move as a major step forward for the kingdoms, but are less than enthusiastic about the limitations set upon them. Some may have the ability to express these views, as a number of political leaders have joined colors with noted Burgundian count Edmund Dantes. Dantes' philosophies on moderate progressivism continue to be well noted among those searching for a course alternate to the extremities of liberalism. Dantes has constantly encouraged a reformist, yet conservative approach to change, and continues to be the leader of his party, and has been declared the first Prime Minister of Paris-Burgundy. (+1 Stability)

UPROAR OVER NEW EMBASSY. Madrid, Empire of Holy Spain. The diplomatic corps of Europe have been sent into confusion and turmoil, as the Japanese establish the first Asian embassy in Europe. In a gala event, Emperor Carlos VI of Spain has welcomed the Japanese ambassador, a member of the leading Tokugawa family in Japan. The new embassy has been afforded all the rights according to the Pact of Toledo, and the Japanese have quickly settled in, observing Spanish military drills and attending local formal events. The local Spanish aristocracy have complimented the Japanese on learning the etiquette and mannerisms of civilized society so quickly, but other aristocrats and diplomats continue to look down upon the Spanish for allowing such an abrupt and uncouth even to take place.

NOVGOROD COMPLETES NEW ROAD SYSTEM. Novgorod, Novgorod. King Mikhail IV of Novgorod was pleased to announce the completion of an ambitious program of road paving and building this year, as the realms of his kingdom have been substantially improved. The efforts have allowed for the paving of the main roads and routes of transportation across Novgorod, bringing together a new system of commerce and trade. The new roads have led to the development of a number of small communities, and regular patrols by various lords have led to a cessation of bandit activity which has been on the decline since the end of the Great Famine. The military has also commended the effort, as the roads will allow to superior responses to any possible Moscovite invasion. (+1 Stability)

POITOU OPENS NEW MUSEUM OF FRENCH HISTORY. Poitiers, Poitou. King Henri IV was pleased to announce the creation of the Grand Museum of French History this year, lauding the French kingdoms and societies of the past. The histories include that of the Gauls who preserved their independence for so long from the Roman Empire to that of the Franks who held back the Muslim tide. It further lauds the role of the French states in the departed Holy Roman Empire, as well as the occasional united fronts in wars against Spain and England. The Museum features all these great achievements and markers in French history, and is even more revolutionary for its unlimited admittance policy to all citizens of any French state for no charge. This attachment to the local Royal Gallery has been viewed as a great accomplishment for French nationalism, which continues to attract a large number of French writers and artists.

NEW REPUBLICAN ACCORD. Amsterdam, Republic of the Netherlands. Much like the signing of an agreement of cooperation between Switzerland and the Republic of the Netherlands in 1831, a new Republican Accord of Cooperation has been established. The new republic in Denmark and the old one in the Netherlands have signed an agreement, recognizing the new regime in Denmark as the legitimate one, and a pledge from the Dutch to protect the republic's right to rule. Both nations have seen this as a solid step forward in the development of republicanism in Europe, and the new regime in Denmark seems to represent a new era for that nation's politics. As tensions rise in Europe, and most seem uncertain with the de facto dissolution of the Northern League, the Danes and Dutch continue to work together for their common cause.

SPECIAL: The Third Venetian War​

FIGHTING AROUND VENICE. Venice, Austria. Venice was the main theater for the start of the war, and for the first half of this year, remained the center of military attention for combat. The first battle was a minor skirmish, as Savoy-Milan's armies took the town of Trento, securing their defenses against any Austrian counterattack from the north. The main battles took place early in the year around Treviso, as the army of Savoy-Milan struck at the Austrian lines around the city. The Austrians managed to hold their position, inflicting heavy casualties upon the Savoy-Milan army, though they incurred substantial losses of their own. The battle was a tactical draw, with Austria winning on the battlefield, but eventually withdrawing from the fight regardless. The Austrian army, having heard of the fall of Trento and the involvement of Brandenburg, chose to give up Venice and the surrounding territory in order to preserve the more vital lands of the north. They withdrew as quickly as possible through the mountains, leaving behind a minor rear guard in Trieste. The army of Savoy-Milan was able to quickly secure Trieste, but the Austrians managed to scuttle their navy, rather than allow it to be captured. For most of the rest of the year, the Austrians were content to wait behind the mountains, while fighting the Brandenburg invasion in the north. After the defeat of the Brandenburg invasion, the Austrians managed to launch an offensive during the first snows of winter, retaking Trento and Bolzano back from Savoy-Milan in a minor battle.
Casualty Lists
Austria: 8 Infantry Brigades, 1 Cavalry Brigade, 2 Artillery Brigades, 30 Third Rate Warships, 5 Toledo-Class Warships (-1 Navy Quality)
Kingdom of Savoy-Milan: 10 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades

INVASION OF BOHEMIA. Prague, Austria. The newest front of the war has been in northern Austria, as the Brandenburgers invade, in an attempt to take Prague and secure Bohemia from the Austrians. The Austrian army, embroiled in fighting around Venice for the first part of the year, was unable to respond in kind. The garrison at Prague soon found itself besieged by a substantially larger Brandenburger army, as they desperately awaited relief. The relief arrived from the west, as a Bavarian army marched to lift the siege and drive back the enemy. They found themselves outnumbered by Brandenburg's force, but attempted to lift the siege regardless. After a bloody battle, the Bavarians managed to break the center of Brandenburg's lines, shattering their force and breaking the siege. Both armies were badly mauled in the battle, and Brandenburg's force withdrew across the northern border. A smaller Austrian army has arrived from the south, reinforcing the position and consolidating a united defense against the Brandenburgers. With the Austrians and their allies united, the commander of Brandenburg's army brought up national reserves to crush the enemy army and reverse his fortunes. The result was a stalemate at the Battle of Decin, as the invasion was once much crushed and destroyed by the Austrians and Bavarians.
Casualty List
Austria: 3 Infantry Brigades, 1 Cavalry Brigade, 1 Artillery Brigade
Bavaria: 7 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades
Brandenburg: 8 Infantry Brigades, 4 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades

FIGHTING IN TUSCANY. Florence, Tuscany. The Tuscan nation came under attack once again, this time from their allies in the last war, Milan. The army of Savoy-Milan quickly crossed over the border, capturing the city of Parma with relative ease. The Tuscans made little effort to initially halt the invasion, waiting for relief from the Pope, who assembled an expeditionary force to help Tuscany repulse the attack. The invading army pushed on quickly from Parma, capturing Bologna, and then beginning to move against Florence. The united Papal and Tuscan force moved into the way of the advance, with nearly equal sized armies, and even more artillery than the invaders could muster. Near the village of Marzabotto, the armies clashed as the allied armies fought to stop Savoy-Milan's invasion. The invaders were halted, after a vicious stalemate of a battle. Neither side broke, and by the end of the second day of fighting, both were exhausted and devastated from fighting. Since the battle, neither army has been able to regain the initiative and go on the offensive.
Casualty List
Kingdom of Savoy-Milan: 5 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade
Papal States: 3 Infantry Brigades, 1 Cavalry Brigade, 1 Artillery Brigade
Tuscany: 3 Infantry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade

HUNGARIAN NAVAL INTERVENTION. Genoa, Kingdom of Savoy-Milan. A recent defensive pact between Tuscany and Hungary has led to the intervention of Hungary in the ongoing war. The Hungarian naval has been deployed to crush the naval capacity of Savoy-Milan, and have struck a harsh blow against them. The Hungarians first attacked the bases at Sicily, and crushed the local fleet with great ease, as well as setting fire to the local port facilities in a marine raid. Finally, they moved to support the Tuscan coast, which came under attack and raiding by the navy of Savoy-Milan. Thanks to superior numbers and local intelligence, the Hungarians managed to outrace, and devastate the predominantly sailing vessels of Savoy-Milan. Overall in a series of quick battles, the naval capacity of the Italians was destroyed and annihilated by the Hungarian navy, with relatively miniscule damage done to the Hungarians.
Casualty List
Hungary: 6 Third Rate Warships, 1 Norwich-class Warship
Kingdom of Savoy-Milan: 1 Fourth Rate Warships, 14 Third Rate Warships, 14 First Rate Warships

News from the Americas​

RELIGIOUS UNREST IN AZTEC EMPIRE. Tenochtitlan, Aztec Empire. After several years of relative domestic peace since the British invasion, the Aztecs have begun what appears to be a new era of turmoil and unrest. As before, the growing Catholic minority has begun demonstrating and fighting against the reigning Aztec theocracy. Preaching against the inhumane practices of the theocracy currently reigning over the empire. With the Christians breaking the fragile truce which has existed for the past few years, the emperor has authorized the use of the military to resume crushing Christian strongholds. The religious police have begun investigating and seeking out the hidden monasteries and other Christian locations throughout the empire.

REACTIONARY REVOLT IN BRAZIL. Rio de Janeiro, Empire of Brazil. The reforms undertaken by the late Emperor Pedro I have not exactly been popular among the upper classes of the Brazilian empire. A number of Brazilian nobles, with significant influence in the army, made a bid to wrest power away from the elected government. They met with some minor success at first, marching into Rio de Janeiro and seizing control of elements of the city's key government buildings, and sending the elected regime fleeing for the hills. Emperor Pedro II refused to abandon the city and was kept under de facto house arrest by the usurpers. The Brazilian navy soon declared their support for the emperor and a blockade was instituted around the port to prevent more aid from arriving to the rebels. The arrival of the army only five months after the coup began brought about a vicious battle outside of the city. The rebels were defeated, and most have been arrested and imprisoned for their role in the uprising. (-2 Infantry Brigades, -1 Cavalry Brigade, +1 Stability)

VIOLENCE AMID URUGUAY'S ELECTIONS. Montevideo, Uruguay. The elections in Uruguay, observed by numerous other nations in the region after the war which nearly erupted a few years ago, went forward this year as constitutionally mandated. After economic turmoil and constant unrest, the Colorado government have faced extreme resistance to their continued rule over Uruguay. The Blancos have managed to make astonishing gains, but the elections were marred as the Blancos were implicated in inciting riots to prevent voting in Colorado-heavy districts. The Blancos have nonetheless managed to secure power, though the rioting in Montevideo have left a sour taste in most mouths. The hope is that the returned Blanco regime has pledged to resume an effort to centralize the Uruguayan state in Montevideo, even though their own support is lackluster at best among the beleaguered population. (+1 Stability)

PARAGUAY ELECTIONS. Asunción, Paraguay. President de Francia was challenged once more, but has announced his retirement from politics, due to his age and faltering health. The conservatives of Paraguay continue to use his name for their party, out of respect for his achievements and position in Paraguay's history and society. The de Francia Party continues to maintain a healthy respect among the population, and has done well in preserving their control over the government. The decentralization programs and proposals by the liberals have been less than popular among the voting populace. The de Francia Party continues to use the name of the last President, and are continuing to dominate the local political scene. (+1 Stability)

LAND CLEARING COMPLETED IN BRAZIL. Porto Alegre, Empire of Brazil. This year, the Brazilian government announced the completion of a program to clear land in the southern part of the nation for the development of new coffee plantations. The effort has moderate success, opening new lands for immigrants and landowners, as the once useless terrain has been adapted for profitability. The area has seen an influx of new immigrants, though problems have been found in starting the new plantations, as immigrants are less than eager to perform hard labor and a shortage of slaves sends the price of labor skyrocketing in the region. The shortage has led to a growing demand for breeding stock of slaves, but not enough have been found to make up the demand throughout the nation.

BRAZIL INTRODUCES NEW WARSHIP. Rio de Janeiro, Empire of Brazil. The Brazilian navy, bereft of any ships to call its own, has undergone a process of developing new warships to supplement those purchased from Europe. The Libertador, named after Emperor Pedro I's nickname, has been the inspiration for the new ships, acting as mobile blockade runners. Equipped with the best engines outside and greatest speed outside of the British and Spanish navies, the Libertador and its sister ships are designed for outrunning larger and more heavily armed warships. They further are capable of outrunning blockading vessels, and of course steaming in circles around any older sailing warships.

PANAMA CRISIS RESOLVED WITH PLEBISCITE. Panama City, Panama. The invasions of the nation of Panama by New Spain and the Republic of New Granada attracted the attention of much of the Western Hemisphere last night, prompting immediate condemnation from the United States of America and the Empire of Brazil. Both powers threatened a naval blockade should the crisis not be resolved in a proper manner. After heated negotiations, the government in Panama caved to the acceptance of the plebiscite demanded by New Spain, in regards to those who wished to join that republic. Thanks to New Granada's intervention, the option for reunification with the south was also included upon the ballot. To very little surprise, very few people took that option, except in the southern provinces. The plebiscite was quickly resolved, as the Panamanian people voted to continue their independence, refusing annexation by both New Spain and New Granada. Both nations have protested the results, but observers from the United States and Brazil have stated that the elections seemed relatively fair and untarnished by South American standards. (+1 Stability in Panama, -1 Stability in New Spain and New Granada)

CHILE BEGINS PORT MODERNIZATION. Santiago, Chile. While other South American nations engage in warfare or develop their economies, Chile has been depressingly stagnated, with a failing economy and limited appeal to European immigrants. President Portales has at last taken notice of the worsening plight of the Chilean people, and rather than risk a coup or revolution, has chosen to take action to help restore the economy. With hired engineers from Brazil, the Chileans have focused upon developing a modern port system in Santiago much like that which graces cities like New Barcelona and Rio de Janeiro. The planned project is likely to take a few years, but the hopes are that the program will aid Chile in attracting both commerce and immigration in the future.

JAMAICA ESTABLISHES REPUBLICAN NAVY. Kingston, Jamaica. The Jamaican government has established the long prepared Jamaican Republican Navy this year, with the construction of two sailing warships. These ships, though obsolete are the first to help defend the island nation, as the final preparations are made on establishing a local naval infrastructure. The old British facilities in Kingston have been updated and reformed to establish a drydock for the construction of modern steamships as well as older sailing vessels. Furthermore, a coaling station has been added in port to allow steamships to refuel and be reequipped, whether merchantmen or warships. The new fleet is hardly capable of competing in a major naval conflict, but the stated goals are to defend local coastlines against piracy and deal with the occasional smugglers.

PARAGUAY BEGINS BUILDING NEW COMPLEX. Asunción, Paraguay. The new Paraguayan president announced a new system of administration buildings to be construction in Asuncion this year to help manage the nation. The new Government Center will be constructed around a garish plaza and gardens, providing a scenic and ample space for bureaucratic management of Paraguay. Furthermore, the foreign office and the presidential office will be located here, as will a new building for the calling of the national Congress. The buildings and larger complex are designed to be architectural masterpieces, hoping to develop a new era of Paraguayan government and political lifestyle. The Congress has approved the funding for the program, and construction began by the end of the year.

News from Africa and the Middle East​

ARABS FIGHT AGAINST CALIPHATE. Baghdad, Mamluk Caliphate. The Arabs have resumed a war against the Caliphate, partially inspired by the faltering Wahabis. Focused among the regional Shia population, the rebels have been acting in minor attacks against the Caliph's armies. The fighting has been fairly low key, but has done much to destabilize the local rule of the Caliph. The Arabs seem to be aiming for the end of the Sunni Caliphate and the collapse of Egyptian rule over the central Middle East. Some members of the Caliph's government have alleged that the Persian government is financing these rebels, and fear that this could be a prelude to Persian invasion of the eastern provinces. They have called for preemptive activity to prevent any aggression by the Shias. (-1 Stability)

DUTCH ESTABLISH NEW AFRICAN COLONY. Fort Mappa, Republic of the Netherlands. In an effort to further improve supply lines to the Pacific Ocean, the Dutch have established a new coaling station on the western African coast called Fort Mappa. Named for the original and greatest Dutch Stadtholder to date, the fort acts as a refueling point for steamships headed east. The larger colony as a whole has been named Kabende, and is hoped to become a substantial holding in the region in order to build Dutch influence in Africa. The new colony has proven to be a moderate success, but he cost of maintaining it has proven to be substantially more than the pittance made from commercial refueling in the region.

PERSIA BEGINS ENFORCING NEW TRIBAL POLICIES. Mashhad, Persia. The Persian government has begun dedicating a substantial amount of resources to a new effort to establish and maintain stability in the northeastern provinces acquired from the Khazak Khanate. The Persians have begun taking sides in the plethora of tribal feuds and conflicts, establishing proper allies through bribery and aid in resolving disputes. That has proven the carrot of this policy, as many of Tehran's new allies have been richly rewarded and supported by the Persians, helping to maintain order in their region. The Persians have deployed elements of the army to devastate any resisting tribes, and have proven richly successful in the effort. Most of the opposition tribes have been pushed across the border into the Khanate, as border security is increased against raids. The area has begun to know unprecedented peace, though some tribes which have refused to depart have turned to banditry, hiding in mountain caves and strongholds from what they view as the Persian invaders. (-2 Infantry Brigades, -1 Cavalry Brigade, +1 Stability)

MADAGASCAR INTEGRATION MAKES STRIDES FORWARD. Antananarivo, Madagascar. The monarchy of Madagascar has made immense steps this year towards the consolidation and development of a central government. A major recalcitrant tribe's leader passed away this year, leaving control and power to his much more open-minded son. The new tribal leader has given his full support for the queen and her efforts of centralization in Antananarivo, providing tribute and aid to the ongoing centralization program. This is a major advance for the program, as Madagascar comes ever closer to establishing a modern centralized state upon their island. (+60 EP into centralization)

PERSIA ESTABLISHES NEW MILITARY ACADEMY. Tehran, Persia. The Persian government, with the assistance of its British advisors, has created a new academy in Tehran for the education of its officer corps. As an extension of the training provided in the establishment of the new Persian order of battle, the British are serving as the academy's first teachers, hoping to educate the Persians in civilized manners of combat. The academy has also brought some veterans in from the fields in the northeast to teach about the combat seen in the Durrani war as well as in the later conflicts with the Khazak hordes. The academy has had some success, but rumors claim that the British could well withdraw their officers, due to the policies of the new government in London.

News from the Far East​

GUANGZHOU GAINS FURTHER RECOGNITION. Guangzhou, Guangzhou. The Guangzhou Emperor has gained significant support locally in the War of the Three Emperors by gaining full European backing. In addition to its traditional British support, the Republic of the Netherlands has also recognized the Guangzhou Emperor as the true ruler of China. The British and Dutch continue to finance and build economic ties with the emperor, assisting him in the ongoing war. This has done much to sway the merchant classes of the eastern coastal cities to the side of Guangzhou, as they hope to establish a new dynasty with a new outlook on the future of China. This political victory has reduced merchant support for both Fuzhou and the Peking emperors, but the war still has a long way to go before true victory is achieved. (+1 Stability for Guangzhou, -1 Stability for Imperial China and Fuzhou Empire)

SWEDES INTERVENE IN KOREA. Seoul, Korea. The rising tension between Sweden and Korea has at last erupted into a war between the Europeans and the Koreans. The trade concerns have resulted in a blockade by Swedish naval forces around the Korean ports, while a major land force was sent from Europe to crush the local defenses and enforce their will. The long voyage led to many deaths, as an outbreak of cholera took place among the troop ships, leading to entire brigades being decimated overnight by the virulent disease. Upon arriving in China, the Swedes immediately began preparation for the invasion of Korea. The first step was a major naval battle as the Koreans engaged the attacking Swedes. To the surprise of no one, the Swedes smashed the Korean navy, using steam power and significantly superior weapons. Based from Swedish China, the Swedes invaded near Seoul, landing their army, as the Koreans amassed to repulse them. The Koreans, thanks to superiority in cavalry were able to anticipate the Swedish moves and scout their positions much more easily. The result was a viciously fought battles as the Swedes attempted to take Seoul. The Swedes won a major victory, forcing the Korean army to withdraw, though they did so in good order. The Swedes besieged the city, as the Koreans withdrew. With superior numbers and precise knowledge about the locations of the Swedish troops, the Koreans managed to encircle the Swedes and cut them off from their supply lines. Faced with the possibility of destruction, the Swedes were forced to attack in order to break free. The Koreans, with the Swedes' moves thoroughly anticipated, managed to use their superior numbers to devastate the enemy and crush them on the battlefield. In a surprising move however, the large number of prisoners taken from the Swedes were returned to their ships by the Koreans, after being stripped of weapons and other supplies.
Casualty Lists
Korea: 14 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 4 Artillery Brigades, 21 Fifth Rate Warships, 2 Second Rate Warships (+1 Army Quality, +1 Stability)
Sweden: 20 Infantry Brigades, 4 Artillery Brigades, 3 First Rate Warships (-1 Stability)

A GROWING PURGE IN JAPAN. Tokyo, Japan. To some observers, it seems that the Japanese are experiencing what many would call a "silent civil war." No great battles have been fought or armies amassed, but casualties seem to be emerging regardless. The year has seen innumerable assassinations and disappearances among the upper classes of Japanese society. Shogun Ieyoshi has surrounded himself with guards and followers, in order to prevent a similar fate befalling him. Amid this atmosphere of intrigue, the Tokugawa Clan, having for some time resisted their wayward son's policies, have abruptly made an about face. Unanimously, they now back westernization and modernization of Japanese society in order to compete with the Europeans economically. The main opponents in the clan to the plans have all disappeared or died publically, in the growing silent war. Other clans have experienced casualties as well, but it seems that the westernization faction continues to grow in size and strength among the Japanese daiymos, or at least the ones who have survived. (+2 Stability)

BRITAIN ESTABLISHES NEW INDIAN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. Calcutta, United Kingdom of Great Britain. The British colonial authorities in India have developed a new incentive program to help promote development of India's economy and infrastructure. Taking a new course from previous conservative policies of direct spending and development, the liberals have established the Imperial Efficacy Index, to measure and reward local forces for the improvement of India. The Index measures all districts and princely states within the British possessions of India based upon civil development, economic production, and development of western institutions, religion, and culture. The top two performers would be substantially rewarded, as would the worst performer, in order to assist them in catching up to the rest of the empire. The awards would be granted annually, starting next year, in the hopes of bringing new prosperity and class to the British empire. (+1 Stability in British India)

TIBET BEGINS FORT CONSTRUCTION TO FORESTALL INVASION. Lhasa, Tibet. As the War of the Three Emperors appears to be reaching a climax, the fledgling nation of Tibet has grown increasingly concerned about its own security. Much of the government has expressed fears that a united China may fly against past British agreements and attempt to return Tibet to imperial control. Therefore the Dalai Lama has approved the finances for the construction of a series of forts along the mountain passes and roads, to prevent easy access or invasion of Tibet. A few British and Indian engineers have been hired from the south to oversee the process, though the forts are focused on countering Asian armies, not European ones.

WAR OF THE THREE EMPERORS. Peking, China. The brutal War of the Three Emperors continues to devastate China, as the Chinese leaders struggle to gain and preserve control over the vast nation. The Imperial government in Peking actually took a step back from the main fighting this year, allowing their bitter rivals among the Nians and the Ascendants to fight it out. Only minor skirmishes were fought between the Ascendant Kingdom and the Imperial government, which both sides mostly regretted. Similarly minor skirmishes were fought between the Ascendants and Tibet, as the Ascendants attempted to sabotage the construction of new forts along their mutual border. The main battles in the north took place between the Ascendants and Nians, as General Kong attempted to establish his dominance in the region. The Ascendants brought their full army to bear against the Nians, with the help of numerous defecting gangs. The last forces of Shi an Ning were mustered to resist the Ascendants, but in a great battle Shi an Ning was slain and the Nian Realm was dissolved. Xi'an was pillaged and razed in a great orgy of violence and destruction, as the Nians were at last crushed by the Ascendants. In the south, the Peking Emperor at last sent an army to establish some authority against the growing threats of Fuzhou and Guangzhou. They quickly found themselves outnumbered by a much stronger force from Guangzhou, which crushed them on the battlefield at Loudi. The imperials were routed and much of their authority in the south was diminished. The newly established authority of Guangzhou continues to be challenged by the Muslims of Yunnan which have once more moved against the southern emperor. A significant Muslim invasion of Guangzhou at last took place, and the Guangzhou Emperor was forced to divert a substantial part of his eastern army to stop them. The Guangzhou force was barely able to halt the Islamic invasion, but it came at a painful price for the war effort. With the Guangzhou army distracted, the Fuzhou Empire was able to launch a new offensive, breaking the siege of Fujian. Now outnumbering the Guangzhou army, they engaged in a battle against the smaller force. Miraculously, in a great feat of tactics, the Guangzhou army was able to outflank and confound the Fuzhou force. The army was shattered and scattered beyond repair, and Fujian has once again fallen under siege after its brief moment of liberation
Casualty Lists
Ascendant's Kingdom of China: 12 Infantry Brigades, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades, 7 Manpower
Fuzhou Empire: 10 Infantry Brigades, 4 Cavalry Brigades, 5 Artillery Brigades, 63 Manpower
Guangzhou: 21 Infantry Brigades, 9 Cavalry Brigades, 4 Artillery Brigades, 71 Manpower
Imperial China: 11 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades, 59 Manpower
Nian Realm: 14 Infantry Brigades, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 3 Artillery Brigades, 50 Manpower
Tibet: 1 Infantry Brigade, 3 Manpower
Yunnan: 14 Infantry Brigades, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 4 Artillery Brigades, 6 Manpower

Financial Section​

DUTCH OPEN INVESTMENT IN ARGENTINA. Buenos Aires, Argentina. The Republic of the Netherlands has begun encouraging banks and individuals to invest in the growing state of Argentina in South America. The majority of investment has been focused on assisting the local government in centralizing control within Buenos Aires, as well as developing a modern naval presence to help control their coast line. The Dutch have found the Argentines to be good friends, and have aided in the sale of several modern steamships to help build up their navy and establish a new ally in South America. Dutch bankers are thrilled at the possibility of a new theater of investment, and have also begun encouraging migration of workers to Argentina, to even further build ties between the two nations.

POLAND OPENS MASSIVE LOAN TO AUSTRIA. Warsaw, Poland. In a landmark financial agreement, the government of Poland has granted a war loan of unprecedented size and scope to besieged Austria. The loan and material provided were to aid in the production and training of soldiers to fight Brandenburg and the Kingdom of Savoy-Milan. The loan is easily the largest one of its kind ever offered in European history, and the Austrians have been extremely grateful for it, and it was key in the defeat of Brandenburg and the retaking of Trento. The loan has opened new economic doors for Polish business in Austria, fostering a new relationship of trade and commerce between the two powers.

FINANCIAL CHANGE SUMMARY. Madrid, Empire of Holy Spain.


Random Stat Changes and Fluctuations

MENDEZ BALL ADAPTED FOR COMMON USAGE IN WESTERN EUROPE. (+1 Army Quality for all of the following):


Quality Boost for Siam: +1 Navy Quality

Quality Deterioration for Jamaica: -1 Navy Quality

Quality Boost for Tuscany: +1 Navy Quality

Quality Boost for Denmark: +1 Army Quality

Diplomatic Pouch

OOC

@Adrogans: A shift in the method of schooling is a shift in culture as well as the style of your management and expenses. Such a shift is typically far beyond your control, and your nation will turn to various types of schooling eventually. Therefore, I cannot give a price or time frame on such an event.

@SouthernKing: I'm finding it difficult to term your nation as a Constitutional Monarchy as the power still rests fully in the hands of the monarch. If you want to establish a truly democratic government (not that that's a good idea) with the monarchy, you will ultimately have to establish regular elections, as well as confirming the permanent rights of the Assembly and monarch.

@Double A: After doing some independent research, I have come to agree with your assessment of Polish manpower in the current scenario. Therefore I have adjusted your manpower appropriately to allow for a larger population and superior domestic status than Poland possessed during our timeline.

World Map

OOC: Great update. Glad that this is back up and running.

IC: To: Persia
From: The Mamluk Caliphate

Persian meddling in our territory funding revolts is intolerable. The Mamluk Caliphate hereby demands that Persia cease all funding to any rebels within our territory, denounce the Shia rebellions and their actions and pay 5 EP worth of reparations to pay for damages previously incurred by these efforts. Failure to accept will result in a state of war between our nations.

From: Swedish Empire
To: Korea
You have fought well, and honorably. We are willing to withdraw our blockade, if Korea will concede the right of Swedish merchants to trade within its borders as granted by the Treaty of Jeju.

From: Swedish Empire
To: Brandenburg
We are shocked that you would violate the good faith of your neighbors with an unprovoked, undeclared invasion of another nation. We advise that you withdraw from the conflict immediately, before you are brought to term for your actions by said neighbors.

From: Swedish Empire
To: Denmark
Her Majesty recognizes the Danish Republic. We hope to enjoy the historically cordial relations that Sweden has had with Denmark within the past century with your regime.

From: Persia
To: The Mameluke Caliphate

The Shahenshah disputes those allegations of fomenting and supporting rebellion against the Caliph's lawful rule. However, in the interests of peace and as a sign of his genuine good will towards his brother the Caliph of Egypt, he is willing to pay the required reparations.

OOC: Welp, that Panama War was completely pointless. Great update as always, EQ.
Also, I think there's a mistake with my banked EP. I spent all 35EP I had available to me last turn, the EP line in my stats should read; "EP: 0 (+33)" as opposed to "EP: 2 (+33)" as it does now.
Thanks.

To: Brandenburg
From: Poland

While King Stanislaw didn't want to believe it, he heard that you had been planning an invasion of Austria. He intervened to save their country, and it seems to have worked. Austria has done nothing to you, and as Savoy-Milan attacked Austria and not the other way around, you are in no way obligated to continue this war on their behalf. Please end the conflict before it escalates.

To: Republic of Denmark
From: Poland

While your government system may be strange, King Stanislaw will recognize you, and hopes our trade agreements with Denmark will be unaffected by the new regime.

ooc: Holy crap, a GM actually listened to me for once!

Ooc: what an interesting year.

To: Brandenburg
From: Netherlands
We also will voice our concerns.. We do not believe your war against Austria was justified, we hope for peace in the region and all this does is escalate tensions and enlargen the war, especially when you have no true reason to go war other than " we want land " and other blatantly aggressive reasons
We ask you withdraw for the good of the continent.

To: Kingdom of Brandenburg
From: Empire of Holy Spain

Your actions against Austria make no sense, and we demand that you leave all Austrian lands and offer Austria peace terms that are statu quo ante bellum or better in favour of Austria. Otherwise, we will intervene against you.

To: Persia
From: The Mamluk Caliphate

We are thankful that Persia has taken the peaceful route. May peace continue to reign between our nations Insha'Allah.

To: The World
From: Brandenburg

I would like to clarify that the Kingdom of Brandenburg has absolutely no territorial ambitions in this war. The Kingdom of Austria has repeatedly threatened the Kingdom of Brandenburg in the past, and our only aim in this war is to render Austria incapable of threatening the peace if Europe in the future. Our goal in this war is the liberation of Bohemia.

OOC: Is there a reason that Tuscany received a boost to naval quality and now has a higher naval quality than Savoy-Milan despite having no navy?

To: Austria
From: Milan-Savoy

This war has gone on for long enough, and we are willing to be the first to seek peace. By your actions in destroying Venice, you have shown that your concerns for your Venetian territories are slim. Now, you have been all but driven from these lands, much to the relief of the Italians living there. Your Papal and Tuscan friends have had little success in shielding you from the strength of our army and the will of the Italian people. Yet we have little wish to continue our invasion further than it has already gone, so we offer you this. The current borders will become permanent, and you will be allowed to keep the Venetian lands that you still hold. And although all our actions in this war have justifiable, we are willing to offer you some compensation for the loss of your naval forces at Trieste. We urge you to accept these terms and cease attempting to force your foreign will upon the people of Italy.

To: Hungary
From: Milan-Savoy

Your unwarranted aggression has been noted by the people of Milan-Savoy, and we hope that it will further reveal to the people of Europe the disregard for law that exists in Hungary.

To: Corsica
From: Milan-Savoy

As your northern neighbor, we wish to be the first to congratulate you on achieving independence, and hoping that your kingdom will achieve much prosperity in the years to come.

To: Savoy-Milan
From: Austria

We believe that you have severely misgauged the situation. We instead offer you the chance to withdraw from our rightful lands before we take our rightful retribution at your invasion. This is the last chance we will offer for a peace at pre-war borders, and it must be accepted for Tuscany as well. We urge you to consider this generous proposal.

To: Brandenburg, Poland, Sweden, Spain, Netherlands
From: Austria

We thank all of you for the outpouring of support against the aggressive invasion of Brandenburg, and we hereby offer the Brandenburgers a just peace. We will take no compensation for the invasion but are willing to generously agree to an end to the war at pre-war conditions.

To: Sweden
From: Korea

We accept your proposal, but would like to remind you that you will not have any favored position over any other merchants.

To: Sweden and Poland
From: Denmark

We thank you both for your support and hope this is the start of a truly amicable relationship between our nations.

To: Denmark
From: Brandenburg

Although we do not especially like your form of new government, we recognize the old monarchy as incompetent and hostile to our kingdom. Therefore, we recognize this new government as legitimate.

To: Austria; Savoy-Milan
From: Brandenburg

We joined this war on behalf of Savoy-Milan, and we request that any peace treaty ends the war for both ourselves and Savoy-Milan, instead of having separate peace treaties.