Blood and Iron: The Conquests of the Chancellor

[MTB4884]

March 16, 490 AD

Ambassador Schmidt walked to the door of the German Embassy compound in Samarkand. The Imperial Guardsman on duty saluted and opened the door for him as usual. The military attache was waiting for him as he entered his office. “Yes, Hans?”

“Your Excellency, we have received a message concerning the German attack on Punjab. Our forces were able to weaken the Indian defenses, but were not able to take the city. The siege will continue for now.”

“I see. Is there any word from New Madras?”

“Not yet, Your Excellency. I will inform you at once when we receive an answer from Berlin.”

The Ambassador nodded, and went into his office to work on his paperwork. He had nearly finished his reports when a knock sounded at the door. “Come in!”

The military attache entered. “Your Excellency, there is a party of visitors from the Koreans to see you. The leader is a Wang Kon.”

“Ah yes, the mysterious Koreans. Please send them in.” The Ambassador stood to receive his important foreign visitors.

Two men entered, wearing dark blue silk robes and carrying torches, as a third man, with much more elaborate attire entered. “Greetings, Ambassador. I am Wang Kon, the Great Leader of all the Koreans.”

“Welcome to the German Embassy, Great Leader Kon. What can I do for you today?”

The Great Leader paused in surprise. “I had heard, Ambassador, that the Germans preferred to get to the heart of the matter. I had not quite believed the reports from the Turks until now.” The Great Leader paused again. “My people are quite curious about the newly introduced German people. We would like to acquire a copy of the maps of Germany. I am prepared to offer our maps of the lands of Korea in exchange.”

The Chancellor will never authorize a straight trade of maps under the circumstances. “I see, Great Leader. For our part, we are curious about your people as well. I myself tried for years to verify the rumors of the existence of the Koreans, until the Sultan graciously traded that information to us last year.”

The Ambassador paused for a moment. “There is one difficulty with your proposal, however. Germany is a vast and ancient land, with many cities, while the Koreans have but one city. The Turks, as part of the deal which introduced our peoples, also provided a complete copy of their latest maps to us, and so I fear that Germany has much to lose if we reveal our own maps to the Koreans at this time. It is also my understanding that Korea has not yet formally met either the Chinese or the Mongols.”

The Great Leader frowned at this. “We will soon learn of both of these peoples, Ambassador. I am scheduled to meet with the Sultan this afternoon, and I will speak with him on this very point myself. I am certain that I can persuade him to assist us in this matter.”

Good luck with that, Great Leader! Aloud the Ambassador replied, “We of the Germans are interested in good relations with the newly discovered Korean people. It is my understanding from talking with my Turkish contacts that the wise Korean people have not yet discovered the art of Masonry. Perhaps I can help your scholars to learn of it.”

The Great Leader's face showed his puzzlement. “What is this “Masonry”, Ambassador Schmidt?”

It is good to know that the Turks were honest with us about the current state of Korean science. “We have the ability to shape stone to our needs, and use it for building structures. This very Embassy building was built using this knowledge. I propose that we train your own artisans in this skill, in exchange for a complete copy of the maps of the Koreans.”

It took only a moment for the Great Leader to make his decision. “I believe that will be acceptable to the Korean people. How can this be accomplished, Ambassador?”

“We will send a half dozen of our artisans back to Korea with your party, Great Leader. There they will teach your artisans the knowledge of Masonry. In exchange, you will tell those we send all about the lands around Seoul. All can be ready on our end by this time tomorrow.”

The Great Leader beamed with joy. “I am so pleased to hear that, Ambassador. I shall return tomorrow, then. May the peace between Korea and Germany last a thousand years!” He made a curious gesture, and the three Koreans took their leave.

The military attache came in once the Koreans had left. “Your Excellency, the Turkish Military Advisor is here. He wishes to know when we will bring the next group of prisoners to be exchanged.”

“Now that, Hans, is a very good question. Tell General Aziz that I wish to wait until I have word of the battle at New Madras, and that I will ask for further instructions if we do not hear from Berlin within a week.”

“It shall be done, Your Excellency.”

[wuhjah]

Great job sticking with it for a year now. That shows a lot of commitment.

A quick question and follow-up, how have the Koreans not learned Masonry by 490 AD?
Is that a result of the map size and number of turns in the game?
(If the answer is to be found by reading more, just tell me to keep reading.)

[MTB4884]

OOS: Thanks for the kind words, wuhjah!

The Koreans in this particular game have only one city, while the Germans have nearly a hundred by 490 AD. I edited the previous post to make that clearer. The larger map size in Kal-El's mod also has an effect. The Koreans do have writing, so it may simply be that the AI didn't go after masonry for whatever reason. They also do not have contacts with either the Mongols or the Chinese, who are also one city civilizations in this game, and so they don't have much opportunity to do tech trading. I basically gave them masonry for their world map to make it less likely that they would either enter the war on the Indian side against Germany or talk the Turks into doing so.

[MTB4884]

April 6, 490 AD

Chancellor Otto von Bismarck was working in his office as usual when his intercom sounded again. “Yes?”

“My Chancellor, the Military Minister is here to see you.”

“Send him in, then.”

The Military Minister, Karl von Clauswitz, entered the Chancellor's office and bowed to his leader as usual. “My Chancellor, I have good news and bad news. Which shall I tell you first?”

“Let me hear the worst, Minister. Tell me what the bad news is.”

“My Chancellor, the 2nd Corps has launched another assault on Punjab. Marshall Bruner reports that two Indian divisions defending the city were destroyed, at the cost of nearly half the troopers of the Corps. He believes that we will need more troops before the city can be taken.”

“I suppose we cannot simply use the individual cavalry divisons for this purpose.”

“We cannot, my Chancellor. We could overwhelm the defenders with sheer numbers, but the cost in German lives would be horrendous. Marshall Bruner is the man on the scene, and we must rely on his assessment of the situation.”

“Very well. Do you still plan to send additional reinforcements to the Punjab region, Minister?”

“That is the plan, subject of course to your approval, my Chancellor. “

The Chancellor considered for a few moments. “Then do it. Continue the siege of the city, and have Marshall Bruner renew the attack when he can. We must minimize our casualties as much as possible, however.”

“It shall be done, my Chancellor. Marshall Bruner is well aware of the limits of the mission.”

“Well, Minister, that was not quite the terrible news I had expected. What is the good news?”

The Military Ministe smiled for the first time. “I am pleased to report that the 4th Corps, under the command of Marshall Steinmetz, was able to storm the walls of New Madras. Fifteen cavalry divisions should arrive in the area within the next month or so. I have already sent orders to garrison the city and proceed north to attack Puri.”

“Now that, Minister is good news. How soon can we attack Puri?”

“The Indian road system north of New Madras is rather primitive. We will need to fight our way through the dense forests in the area. It will take a year at least before they are in position.” The Minister's face clouded for a moment. “I fear that we cannot send further reinforcements to the area quickly. It will take years to complete a rail line through the mountains to Indus, let alone to New Madras, and that is time we cannot afford.”

“I understand, Minister. Send a message congratulating the good Marshall at once, and tell him to proceed with all speed to Puri.” A clattering noise sounded from just outside the office, interrupting the Military Minister's reply.

A soft knock sounded on the office door. “Come in!”

An aide walked in, carrying a telegraph message on a silver platter. “Another telegram from Marshall Steinmetz, my Chancellor.”

“Thank you, Hans. That will do.” The aide saluted his leader and left the office, as the Chancellor read the message form. “HAVE RESCUED TEN STAFF OF TURKISH CONSULATE IN NEW MADRAS STOP TURKISH AMBASSADOR TO INDIA ALSO PRESENT IN CONSULATE STOP TURKISH CONSULATE STAFF WILL BE SENT BACK TO INDUS IMMEDIATELY STOP STEINMETZ.”

The Chancellor handed the message form to the Military Minister.. “I believe that Ambassador Schmidt reported that the Sultan himself asked about this very point a couple of weeks ago. It is a pity that the attack could not have been completed before Father left for his fishing trip at the Caspian Sea.”

“We may yet have time, my Chancellor. The Orient Express carrying your father to Turkey will not reach the Turkish frontier for another day yet. I will, with your permission, send a telegraphed message to Prinz von Persien at once and inform your father of this development. It might be prudent for the Sultan to hear of this incident from your father rather than Ambassador Schmidt. I will check with the Foreign Minsiter for his opinion before sending the message.”

The Chancellor thought for a moment. “I believe you are correct as usual, Minister. Speak with Horst about this at once. Is there anything else to report?”

“Not at this time, my Chancellor.”

“I see. Then confer with Horst, and send the message to Father as you have suggested.”

“It shall be done, my Chancellor.” The Military Minister bowed to his leader, and then took his leave. He made his way to the Foreign Ministry, and was quickly ushered into the Foreign Minister's office, where he explained his errand.

The Foreign Minister, Horst von Steinberg, thought for a long moment. “That is an interesting question, Karl. I think it is prudent to let Chancellor Konrad know of this development. However, we have an Ambassador with the Turks for a reason. Ambassador Schmidt should be the one to speak with the Sultan. The Ambassador can inform the Sultan before he leaves for the Caspian Sea and the fishing trip with Chancellor Konrad. That way Chancellor Konrad can enjoy his fishing trip with the Sultan in peace, without the necessity of dealing with continuing affairs of state.”

“This is of course your field of expertise, Horst. I am glad that Chancellor Otto talked you into staying at your post for now. We need your experience and wisdom.”

“It is good of you to say so, Karl. We must get these telegraphed messagess off at once.” The Foreign Minister rang the intercom on his desk, and an aide walked in moments later. "Relay a copy of this to our Embassy in Samarkand, and to the Orient Express office, priority channel."

"It shall be done, Minister." The aide took the telegraph form and left on his errand at once.

[wuhjah]

Thanks for clearing that up. Surprising to hear those Civs only have one city and no contact, but I understand.

[MTB4884]

July 2, 490 AD

“My Chancellor, the Songhai Ambassador is here to see you.”

The Chancellor scowled at the intercom, even though his aide could not see him. “Interesting, Hans. Did he say why?”

“He said only that it is a matter of military importance.”

The Chancellor felt a cold chill, despite the warmth of the summer day. “Very well. I will be down directly.” The Chancellor clicked the intercom off and headed downstairs to the official throne room. He stood in front of the throne and gestured for the chamberlain to admit his visitor.

Ambassador Mansa Musa came in, and bowed in the Songhai fashion. “Good afternoon, Chancellor. Thank you for seeing me so quickly.”

“The pleasure is mine, Ambassador. What can I do for you today?”

Truly the new Chancellor is his father's son. Aloud the Ambassador replied, “I have received new orders from King Sunni Ali II. His Majesty requests that a meeting be arranged, so that issues of mutual interest of both our peoples can be addressed.”

“His Majesty is certainly welcome to visit our fair land, Ambassador. I will tell the Foreign Minister to expect you to work out the proper details.” The Chancellor thought for a moment. “Perhaps you could enlighten me as to which specific issues are of concern to your leader?”

“I do not know all the specfics, Chancellor. I believe he has concerns about the savage barbarians who infest the central African jungles. Your father said on several occasions that they are the common enemy of both Germany and the Songhai.”

“Indeed they are, Ambassador. A large band of them recently attacked one of our outpost cities in Africa. This, however, is a matter which you should take up with the Military Minister.”

“There is more, Chancellor. His Majesty has tasked his navy officers with finding a way to defeat the savage pirates and barbarians which prowl the waters between our nations. He proposes that Germany provide us with the knowledge to evade them on the open ocean, and offers generous terms in exchange.”

No doubt the Songhai's idea of generous terms differs from ours! “I suppose it will do no particular harm to at least discuss such an exchange. I would suggest that you consult with the Imperial Science Academy, who can determine what precisely the needs of the Songhai might be.”

“I do not understand, Chancellor. We simply need to know how to sail upon the open ocean.”

Father would have made this point clear by now. “Perhaps an analogy will assist you, Ambassador. A shipwright, to build a galley, must begin with the keel. The boat would fail if he were to try to build the deck first, and then add the oars and the hull bracing. The experts at the Imperial Science Academy will need to know what the current state of Songhai shipbuilding knowledge is in order to determine what is required before you can navigate upon the open ocean. Otherwise, we may omit a vital step, which would doom any such atempt by the Songhai to failure.”

The Ambassador's face fell at this. “Chancellor, that is a very sensitive issue for His Majesty. He is reluctant to reveal such secret details of our technical knowlege for obvious reasons. Again, His Majesty is even willing to discuss trading supplies of gold to the German people.”

“Interesting. It was my understanding that the Songhai were trading their surplus gold with the Indians, in exchange for spices and dyes.” The Chancellor's tone indicated his displeasure with these trades, despite the formal neutrality of the Songhai in the German war against India.

“The shipments have been suspended for the moment, Chancellor. It seems your military victories have disrupted the Mahatma's ability to obtain goods to trade with our people. This is a subject of some concern to His Majesty. There is, of course an alternative if Germany is unwilling to assist us in this matter.”

“Indeed, Ambassador? What might that be?”

“We have had discussions with the Indians. They may be willing to send skilled experts to teach our own naval officers about the esoteric art of sea navigation, in exchange for continued shipments of Songhai goods to India.”

“I can see, Ambassador, that this will require some careful thought. I will speak with my advisors on the matter. In the meantime, I will ask the Foreign Minister to meet with you to complete the details of the King's visit here to Berlin.”

“His Majesty will be pleased at your gracious hospitality, Chancellor. I will gladly speak with your Minister von Steinberg.” The Songhai Ambassador bowed in the Songhai fashion, and then quickly left the throne room.

“Rudi,” said the Chancellor once the Ambassador was out of earshot, “send messages to the Foreign and Military Ministers and ask them to report to the Palace immediately.”

“It shall be done, my Chancellor.” The chemberlain left on his errand.

Do we help the Songhai, and strengthen their own navy, or do we let them deal with the Indians for the knowledge of navigation? The Chancellor went back upstairs to his office. He was still lost in thought when the intercom chimed again. “My Chancellor, the Military Minister is here as you ordered.”

“Excellent, Hans. Send him in.”

The Military Minister bowed as usual to his leader. “Good afternoon, my Chancellor. What can I do for you?”

“The Songhai Ambassador came to see me a short while ago. Apparently King Sunni Ali II wishes to meet with me to discuss 'matters of mutual interest.' At least one of these matters involves giving the Songhai the knowledge of sea navigation.”

“That, my Chancellor, is actually not surprising, given the previous failures of the Songhai navy to evade the pirate armada off Gibraltar. What will the Songhai do if we decline their request?”

The Chancellor's reply was cut off by the chime of the intercom. “My Chancellor, the Foreign Minister has arrived.”

“Send him in, Hans.”

The Foreign Minister entered, and bowed somewhat stiffly to his leader. The Chancellor noted with some concern that he did not look well. “What can I...do for you, my Chancellor?”

“Sit down, please, Horst. I was just telling the Military Minister about the visit of the Songhai Ambassador. The Songhai King wants to meet me here in Berlin, and apparently wants us to trade the knowledge of sea navigation to the Songhai.”

“I see, my Chancellor. I will gladly meet with Ambassador Mansa Musa to arrange the details of the Songhai king's visit. I suppose they will ask the Indians for aid in exchange for Songhai gold if we decline their request.”

“Exactly, Horst. My question is what we should do. Should we grant King Sunni Ali's request?”

There was a long silence while the Foreign Minister got his breath back and considered the question. “Such a trade would benefit the Songhai far more than ourselves. We may actually be better off allowing the Songhai to deal with the Indians.”

The Chancellor was surprised at this. “Really, Horst? Why?”

“My Chancellor, the Songhai are officially neutral in the war against the Indians. Unofficially, they do not approve of the war, and they have a growing fear of us. They have a large empire, but they lag behind the Turks and the Indians, as well as ourselves, in technical knowledge.”

“Why is that, Horst?”

The Military Minister answered, to the Chancellor's surprise. “My Chancellor, the Songhai have a large force in central Africa, to do battle with the barbarians in the area. They do not have the large infrastructure in their cities as we do, and so they are rather overextended right now. I agree with Horst, in that we should not lightly trade away this vital knowledge.”

The Chancellor sat back in his chair. “A plan of action that both of you agree on is enough to convince me. Fortunately, we do not have to make a final decision now, since it will probably take a good month for King Sunni Ali to make it here.” The Chancellor paused again. “That will do for now. Thank you both for coming in so quickly.”

“It is our pleasure, my Chancellor,” replied the Military Minister. Both Ministers bowed to their leader, and then left the office.

I hope this is the right decision for Germany.

[MTB4884]

August 10, 490 AD

Chancellor Otto von Bismarck was working at his desk when the intercom sounded once again. “Yes?”

“My Chancellor, the Foreign Minister is here to see you.”

“Very well, Hans. Send him in.”

The Foreign Minister came in, slightly out of breath after the climb up the Palace stairs, and bowed to his leader as usual. “My Chancellor, I have some news concerning the visit of King Sunni Ali tomorrow. I have spoken to the Trade Minister, and it appears the northern gold mines of the Songhai near Timbuktu are either played our or nearly so. They appear to still have sufficient reserves for their own uses, but not enough for export to the Indians or to us.”

“Interesting, Horst. That will give us a plausible way to avoid giving the Songhai valuable seafaring technology. Another question, then. Has the Imperial Science Academy been able to determine how close the Songhai are to building oceangoing ships?”

“We think so, my Chancellor. It appears that the state of Songhai science is even worse than initally reported. They do not have the ability to build universities, let alone navigate using the stars. It will take at least another decade before they can safely navigate the open ocean, and more likely twenty or thirty years.”

The Chancellor's expression hardened at this. “Does King Sunni Ali seriously believe that I will just hand over all that technical knowledge for free?”

“That, my Chancellor, is a difficult question to answer. The good news is that the Indians and the Turks are unlikely to be any more accomodating to the Songhai, particularly since the Songhai cannot offer gold in exchange for this knowledge. It is of course possible that the Songhai have something else in mind.”

“I suppose we will find out for ourselves tomorrow.” The intercom sounded again, startling both men. The Chancellor pushed the proper button. “What is it, Hans?”

“My Chancellor, the Deputy Science Minister is here. He says he has urgent news.”

This had better be good! “Send him in, Hans.”

The Deputy Science Minister, Alberich Einstein, entered the office. He nodded to the Foreign Minister and bowed to the Chancellor. His face betrayed his urgent anxiety. “My Chancellor, I have terrible news to report. I have just been informed that the Science Minister, Johann von Neumann, suffered a serious heart attack early this morning. He is in the Berlin Hospital. Dr. Erlich was not optimistic when I spoke with him, and so I came straight here to report to you personally.”

The shocked Chancellor leaned back in his chair. “I am very sorry indeed to hear that.” He pressed the intercom button. “Hans, have the Imperial carriage prepared for me. I will be going to the Berlin Hospital at once.”

“It shall be done, my Chancellor.”

“May I accompany you, my Chancellor?”, asked the Foreign Minister.

“By all means, Horst.” The Chancellor stood up, and then turned to the Deputy Minister. “I want you to return to the Imperial Science Academy. As of now, you will be acting Science Minister until further notice.”

“As you command, my Chancellor.” The acting Science Minister left at once.

The intercom chimed a few seconds later. “My Chancellor, your carriage is ready.”

“Thank you, Hans. Please send messages to the other Ministers and let them know that the Science Minister is in the Berlin Hospital.”

“It shall be done, my Chancellor.”

The Chancellor and the Foreign Minister quickly went down the stairs, scarcely noticing the salutes from the Imperial Guardsmen as the proper doors were opened for them. It was not until they were in the carriage that the Chancellor spoke.

“This is a serious development, Horst. Johann is still the best scientist the Empire has. We might be in the same shape as the Songhai were it not for him.”

“The Imperial Science Academy has many talented people on its staff. Now Acting Science Minister Einstein was instrumental in working out the principles of atomic structure. Besides, my Chancellor, it is a mistake to assume the worst, even for a man of Johann's age.”

“Surely he is not as old as all that. I cannot imagine what the Council would be like without him.”

“My Chancellor, he will turn ninety in September.”

“Really, Horst?” The Foreign Minister nodded in confirmation. “Believe me, my Chancellor, I can understand how he feels. I myself have spoken with Dr. Erlich concerning my own state of health, and I am four years younger than Johann.” The carriage slowed as they approached the hospital entrance.

The Chancellor himself opened the carriage door, and nimbly jumped down before it had come to a complete stop. The Imperial Guard at the door had barely time to say, “Room 207, my Chancellor”, as he raced for the stairs. He reached the second floor landing, and was in time to see Dr. Franz Erlich leave the sickroom with a grave expression.

“How is Johann doing, Doctor?”

Dr. Erlich sighed. “I am sorry, my Chancellor. The Science Minister died a few moments ago.”

“You did all that was possible, no doubt.” He turned towards the stairs as the Foreign Minister walked up. “We are too late, Horst. He is gone.”

The Foreign Minister's face betrayed his shock at the news. “I grieve for him, my Chancellor. The Domestic Ministry has a protocol for this, as you know.”

“You are right as usual, Horst. Please return to the Foreign Ministry, Horst, and complete the final preparations for King Sunni's visit. The Domestic Minister should be here shortly, and I will have him make the necessary notifications, and announce a national day of mourning.”

“It shall be done, my Chancellor.”

[tR1cKy]

Still a good read, and i second wuhjah's praise, you're really showing a lot of commitment. Too many stories, even with great potential, are started and then left into the limbo, never to be finished. I'm glad to see yours is not one of them.

[MTB4884]

Thanks, tR1cKy! I know what you mean about seeing wonderful, promising stories disappear into oblivion. I promised myself when I started "Blood and Iron" that it would have a proper ending and not simply fade away. I didn't expect to get anything like 21,000+ views though-I thought I might get 10,000 if I was extremely lucky. Thanks again to you and all the loyal readers of "Blood and Iron" out there!

[MTB4884]

August 11, 490 AD

“My Chancellor, His Royal Highness King Sunni Ali II of the Songhai.” The Chancellor stood to receive his Songhai counterpart. “Welcome to my realm, King Sunni Ali. May the blessings of the Almighty fall upon you and all the noble Songhai visitors to Germany.”

“Thank you, Chancellor Bismarck. Your gracious welcome of this humble traveler honors your craft and your line.”

The two leaders sat at a previously prepared table, stocked with wines and delicacies from throughout the Empire. They were also watched over by ten handpicked impi, with the traditional heavy spears and massive shields backed with animal hide, and ten carefully selected Imperial Guardsmen, armed with muskets and brand-new rifles.

“So, King Sunni, what can the nation of Germany do for the Songhai people this day?”

“I see, Chancellor, that you have inherited your father's love of coming straight to the point. No matter. I did want to express my condolences at the death of your faithful Science Minister.”

“That is most kind of you, King Sunni. Of course, that is not why you made the long journey here to Germany.”

“Indeed not, Chancellor. We of the Songhai are interested, as you know, in exploring the Western Ocean. We have tried to send our ships through the pirates and barbarians which infest the waters between our peoples, but to no avail.”

“We have lost many good men to the savagery of the pirates and barbarians over the years as well, King Sunni.”

“I had hoped, Chancellor, to convince you to give us the knowledge to build our own oceangoing ships. My Ambassador has given me most disquieting information that we are too far away from learning how to do so on our own to make such a trade feasible for now.”

Perhaps the King is not the fool one might take him for. “I see. What, then, is your proposal, King Sunni?”

“It is twofold, actually. First, you and your illustrious father have stated on many occasions that these vile pirates are the enemy of all civilized seafaring people. I propose that your people and mine cooperate by building our own armada of warships to wipe them out. The Songhai will gladly match your own contributions to this effort, ship for ship.”

“An interesting proposal indeed, King Sunni. I should add that we are engaged in a great war with the evil Mahatma and his minions even now, and so our efforts must be concentrated on that effort for the time being.” The Chancellor took a sip of Hochrotwein from his goblet to give himself a moment to think. “What is the second part of your proposal?”

“We have heard many reports, Chancellor, of the martial skills of your own sailors. The valiant crew of the Hans von Ribbentrop alone have avenged the slayers of the N'Djamena and the Kumbi in recent years. I should like to request that they help train our own sailors in the arts of naval warfare.”

The King is dreaming if he thinks I am foolish enough to let the knowledge he seeks slip away so easily! Aloud the Chancellor replied, “Another interesting proposal. However, I do not see that it would be feasible. It will be necessary for your crews to have a basic understanding of gunpowder and ocean seamanship to properly appreciate.such training. I will be happy to do just that, once your people have learned these essential skills first.”

The Chancellor raised his hand to forestall the King's angry reply. “There is another, logical alternative. The Songhai have ample supplies of iron for their needs, do they not?”

The King glowered at his host. “We do, Chancellor.”

“Then you must have at least a few trained swordsmen at your command. The Imperial Army has stationed soldiers aboard our ships for years. What if I sent a few advisors and skilled teachers to train your own men in the arts of storming and swordfighting on shipboard?”

The King looked puzzled at this. “What do you mean, Chancellor?”

“There are specific swordfighting techniques that are useful in boarding actions, King Sunni. It is a different matter to fight aboard a moving, rocking ship than it is to fight the same enemy on shore. I have many men trained in such skill, and I could send a few to your own realm to train your own swordmen in such things. I will leave the precise details and the matter of an appropriate payment in the capable hands of the Military Ministry, assuming you are agreeable.” Hopefully this will keep the Songhai happy long enough to conclude the war with the Indians!

This time the King took a sip of his wine to think. “That is certainly better than nothing, Chancellor.” He extended his hand across the table.

It worked! The Chancellor took it. "Done."

[MTB4884]

August 19, 490 AD

The Military Advisor's carriage came to a stop at the western gates of the new Republican Palace in Tanjore. I hope I can persuade the Mahatma to do what must be done. The two swordsmen on duty saluted as he quickly walked inside.

The antechamber was cramped compared to the original Palace. It was a matter of a dozen steps at most before he reached the large doors to the throne room. The Sikh guardsman on duty opened the doors with a flourish as the page sounded a three note fanfare. “O Mahatma, the Military Advisor.”

The Military Advisor's concern grew as the Mahatma merely waved him in. “O Mahatma, I have some news from Berlin. Agent Surat has reported in.”

“Really?” The Mahatma's expression brighted slightly. “What did he say?”

“He reports that King Sunni Ali has met with the Chancellor. We do not yet know if they agreed on anything, however.”

“Do not remind me about that ridiculous proposal of the Songhai. The Chancellor is unlikely to be any more accomdating to the Songhai than I. What else did Agent Surat report?”

“German troops are reported to be headed towards Punjab. The first German attack was repelled, but they will no doubt be back. Another force is headed north toward Puri from New Madras.”

“Then we must reinforce the defenses at Puri! We will lose the silk trade if it is captured!”

“O Mahatma, that is why I must speak with you. I believe the ride on Puri is largely intended as a diversion by the Germans. Their main attack is at Punjab, and that is where we should make our stand. The mountains make the city nearly impregnable to German assault. A full German Army Corps has already tried and failed to take the city.”

“How much longer must we hold out, Karjay? The German hordes have conquered most of our nation. Soon there will be nothing left of our people!”

“No man can say, O Mahatma. There is much unrest and unhappiness within the German Empire. The new Chancellor does not have the same support among the people that his father enjoyed, and soon he must seek peace with us. In the meantime we must use our remaining troops intelligently, to defend where we are strong. Otherwise the Germans will encircle us and destroy our nation. That is why I seek your permission to withdraw our harassing forces back to Punjab, where they can defend the city behind walls and gates.”

The Mahatma's struggle was evident on his face. “We cannot simply abandon Puri. The Germans could then attack us here in Tanjore. Our people will never survive such a calamity.”

“The people support you, O Mahatma. I have spoken with the Domestic Ministry. The people grieve at the loss of so many men and so much valuable lands and cities, but they will still resist the Germans and they can and will fight the Chancellor's armies.”

“I will need a little time to consider. The very fate of our nation may be determined by the actions we take over the next few months.” The Mahatma paused for a moment. “What instructions do you recommend we give to our agent in Germany?”

“He will continue to observe and report, O Mahatma. Asking him to do any more is dangerous, and will only get him killed without any corresponding benefit for us. He has the sense to report to us if he learns of specific information which can help us against the German forces.”

“At least there is some good news out of this terrible war. Carry on, then.”

“I hear and obey, O Mahatma.”

[MTB4884]

January 2, 500 AD
War Council meeting room
Berlin, Germany, 1000 hours B.S.T.

Chancellor Otto von Bismarck called the meeting of the War Council to order. “The Science Minister tells me that he has a brief demonstration to make. Alberich?”

The new Science Minister, Alberich von Einstein, walked to the podium, and moved the cloth off of a large box in the center of the table. “I came prepared to show you, my Chancellor, how our new science of radio broadcasting works.” He produced a small metal device, which he placed in front of his leader, and spoke into it. “Hartz Mountain, this is the Science Minister. Are you receiving me?”

A crackly voice answered from the newly installed overhead speaker. “Indeed we are, Minister von Einstein.” The assembled Ministers were surprised to recognize the voice of Konrad von Bismarck, the retired Chancellor. “It is too bad you and the War Council Ministers have to stay in Berlin, son. The fishing here is quite good.”

“Father? Are you still there at the fishing camp?”

“Naturally, son. That is the advantage of retirement. I was able to catch a twenty four kilo catfish yesterday. Is there anything interesting happening up there in Berlin?”

The Chancellor was rather discomfited for a change. “Father, it seems that the Imperial Science Academy's work has once more borne great fruit. It is to be regretted that Johann did not live to see his last great invention completed.”

“Indeed. I suppose I must get back to fishing, while you continue your duties.”

It is at times such as these that I wish I were still Prinz. “Very well, Father. Good luck with the catfish, and I shall see you when you get back on Friday.” The Chancellor handed the wand back to the Science Minister. “So, Alberich, what else can this marvelous device do?”

The Science Minister smiled at this. “We intend to equip out all exploration ships with radio antennas, and relay coded reports from great distances. The current radio range is approximately 1500 kilometers for binary code messages, and approximately 100 kilometers for voice messages in real time. It is also possible to build repeater stations to extend these ranges on land. Our Embassies will all have this in place by early February.”

“Truly remarkable, Alberich. The Imperial Science Academy has achieved yet another triumph. What is it that you suggest we examine now?”

“We think it is possible to create superior machines, using interchangeable parts. For example, if critical parts of the new radio fail, it will be possible to simply replace the damaged part, instead of scrapping the entire machine. We also believe that we can reduce research expenses by nearly 40% and still learn this technology within four or five years.”

“I see. All in favor of the Science Minister's proposal? The assembled Ministers and the Chancellor himself all raised their hands, and so the Chancellor continued, “Motion approved, then. We must now hear from the Military Minister. Minister?”

The Military Minister walked to the podium. “My Chancellor, the capture of New Madras last spring was a serious blow to the Indians. The 4th Corps, under the command of Marshall Steinmetz, and twelve divisions are headed north and are are now approaching Puri. Our information is that the defense of Puri is down to two musketmen and one pikeman divisions. The capture of Puri will give the Empire access to our own domestic supplies of silk for the first time.

“So the Turks and the Indians will no longer have a monopoly on silk?”

“Precisely, my Chancellor.”

“Now this, Minister, is the sort of thing I like to hear. Is there anything else to report?”

The Military Minister pulled down a second prepared chart. “Another assault on Punjab will be launched this spring. The 5th Corps will join the 2nd and 3rd Corps already beseiging the city, along with another dozen cavalry divisions. We expect that the Indian resistance will be strong. I have given orders, subject of course to your approval, to send in the Corps first. Individual cavalry divisions will be used to tighten the siege only. Marshall Bruner is under orders to minimize our casualties to the extent reasonably possible, even at the risk of failing to capture Punjab. The other good news is that the Indians are withdrawing their troops around Lahore, as I had predicted, in order to defend Punjab.”

“I see. Another question, then. How much further can we expect to go in the war?”

“That is a difficult question to answer, my Chancellor. We can capture Punjab this year, with a little luck. We should be able to capture Puri next spring, and we may also be able to attack Tanjore next year if we are fortunate. I am afraid that is as much as we can realistically expect to achieve. The opposition to the war has already reached dangerous levels, as we all know.”

“My Chancellor,” added the Foreign Minister, “Karl is right. The Turks and the Songhai are becoming increasingly restive. I have heard very disquieting rumors that both are considering an alliance with India. The German people are not prepared for conflict with either nation.”

The Chancellor looked around the War Council table. “Do all of you agree with the Military Minister?” One by one, every Minister raised his right hand. “Then I must bow to the inevitable.” The Chancellor did not look happy, though he was getting better at concealing his feelings. “You will proceed as planned, Minister. Let us hear from the Foreign Ministry now. Horst?”

The Foreign Miniser now took over the podium. “My Chancellor, we are working on proposals for a peace treaty with India. The Turks are willing to quietly support these efforts. They insist, however, that the final treaty be signed in Samarkand, not Berlin.”

“I suppose the Sultan would prefer not to make the long trip to Berlin if given a choice.”

“He did come here before, my Chancellor, but in vain.”

“All right, Horst. I want to see your proposals on my desk in a week's time.” The Chancellor then turned to the Military Minister. “I want Puri captured before we agree to peace with India. I would rather see the silk plantations under our control than under the Mahatma's thumb.”

“We shall do our best, my Chancellor. I will keep you and the War Council informed.”

“Very good. Is there anything else to discuss before we adjourn?” The Military Minister raised his hand. "There is one other matter which I nearly forgot about, my Chancellor. General Halsted, leading the training mission to the Songhai, reports that they are doing well. He suggested that we give a demonstration at an appropriate site to the Songhai leadership. We have a facility ready in Sparthage, pending your approval."

"That is a good idea, Minister. Proceed, unless there are any objections?" No one spoke, so the Chancellor continued, “The approval is given, Minister. Meeting adjourned.” All stood as the Chancellor left the War Council meeting room.

[MTB4884]

February 9, 500 AD

Excerpt from Battles of the Second Indian War, p. 345, Gunter Zeletmann, Ritter Press, Cologne, 910.

“Field Marshall Bruner waited for nearly a month for the right conditions to launch his attack at the stubborn Indian fortress city of Punjab. His diversionary maneuver confused the Indians, and made it possible to storm the main southern gates of the city. The new rifles outranged the older muskets by nearly a hundred meters, which gave the Germans a critical advantage in the attack on February 9.”

Punjab siege line, Bruno sector
0530 hours, local time

The advance force of the 5th Corps was nearly in position for the assault on Punjab. General Rostov's orders from the Field Marshall were specific. You will advance through Bruno sector, approaching the target from the east, and divert as many enemy defenders as possible. Fortunately, Marshall Bruner had listened to his staff officers, and was willing to wait until now to launch the attack.

The General could scarcely see anything in the predawn darkness. His aide Axel was carrying a brand new portable radio, which weighed a mere twenty-five kilos. There was a full moon up, which made it possible for the advance force to pick their way carefully over the steep, rocky slopes just east of the enemy city of Punjab. The lanterns of the defenders were mere points of light on the walls and ramparts. Dawn was still approaching when his men reached their planned positions, some 500 meters east of the city. Everyone waited anxiously for the attack to begin.

A small chirping noise from the radio broke the stillness. Axel held out the radio receiver for his General, who took it, and listened carefully for a few moments. “It shall be done, Marshall.” The General gave the receiver back to his aide, and ordered. “Sound the clarions! We will proceed as briefed!”

Several clarions sounded as the eight hundred troopers of the diversionary force closed on the walls of the enemy city. The German vanguard fired as they came within range of their new rifles. Nearly half of the lanters winked out under the German barrage. A few Indian defenders looked out over the walls, and quickly ducked back down again as they were fired upon. Relatively few musket balls were fired back at the Germans, who lurked in the pale moonlight just out of reliable musket range.

The Germans were under specific orders to hold their position, and not approach within a hundred meters of the walls. They had little fear of enemy fire at this range, and their task was to pin down the enemy rather than close to contact.

The stalemate was broken by another chirp from the radio. This time Axel took the receiver, and listened for a few moments. “General! The main force is attacking! We are ordered to hold our position!” The diversionary force could now hear the faint warbling clarion calls of the main German force, led by the remaining six thousand troopers of the 5th Corps. “Sound the attack signals!”

A new series of clarion calls were heard. The diversionary force knew to a man what this meant. Our comrades are attacking. We must stay put and keep the enemy busy at all costs.

The new dawn showed the results of the German attack. A skeleton force was all that remained of the Indian defenders in Bruno sector. The southern gates of Punjab had fallen into German hands, and German units were now poised to sweep through the unprotected Indian city.

The ancient Indian city of Punjab would finally fall to the Germans, after a siege lasting nearly two years.

[MTB4884]

February 10, 500 AD

Sparthage Harbor
Sparthage, Germany
0900 hours B.S.T.

“Good morning, Ambassador,” said General Halstead. “Welcome to Sparthage. I trust you had a pleasant journey here.”

“Indeed, General. It is a pity that we do not have these marvelous trains in the Kingdom.” The Ambassador climed out of the railway carriage, and looked about at the new harbor facilities. “Can you explain now what the plan might be, and why your Chancellor specifically asked me to come all the way out here?”

“Of course, Ambassador. You will recall that the Chancellor made an agreement with your King Sunni Ali II to train some of your swordsmen in the arts of fighting aboard ship. I have the honor of being the German officer in charge of the training brigade. We have set up a test today, so that you can see for yourself the advantage of having properly trained men in this situation.”

“I see. What is this test you speak of, General?”

“The barge out there, just beyond the breakwater, will be the practice target. A German swordsman brigate of 80 men is aboard, playing the role of the evil pirate ship crew. There are two groups of Songhai warriors who will launch an attack. The first is a regiment of Songhai impi, specifically selected by the miltary attache for their battle prowess. They outnumber the brigade by three to one.”

"The defenders will be armed with these,” continued the General, pointing to a set of German swords. “The blue dye is used to mark successful hits. Once a soldier on either side is hit, he must sit down as if he had been slain. I have a group of officers on the breakwater watching to make certain no one on either side cheats. All of the soldiers on both sides have been instructed to use the flat only. This is a training exercise, so I do not want anyone killed or permanently injured. The Songhai impi regiment have their usual heavy spears, which will be dyed yellow for the same reasons.”

“After the initial battle, a second group of Songhai swordsmen, who we have trained in naval fighting, will be sent in to battle the same German brigade. Again, they outnumber the defenders by three to one. We can then see which group is more successful.”

The Ambassador thought for a long moment. “What about archers on both sides? The barbarians we have fought near the Canary Islands have had a good many archers aboard their ships.”

“There is, of course, a limit to what we can do in a training exercise, Ambassador. This test is designed to duplicate a boarding action aboard ship, where a good sword is worth its weight in gold. The pirates we have fought in the North Sea had primitive swords, and so we have developed tactics to fight and defeat them.” The General paused for a moment. “Shall we proceed with the test, then?”

“By all means, General.”

The General turned to his aide. “Signal the impi to begin.” The General handed the Ambassador a set of field glasses as the clarion call resounded over the Sparthage harbor. Both men looked through their respective field glasses as the Songhai impi regiment rowed out to the barge anchored just off the eastern breakwater.

“The impi will overrun those few soliders, General.” Both men could hear the shouts of the impi, even from this distance, as they neared their target.

“Would you care to lay a wager on that, Ambassador?” The Ambassador chose not to be drawn as he continued watching the impending battle. He could see the impi throwing grapples and lines, attempting to board the barge. The defenders were able to cut the lines of nearly half of the boarding party before being forced back. The actual battle was surprisingly brief. The impi who made it aboad the target barge still outnumbered the Germans, but were literally off balance as the barge rocked in the Mediterranean Sea, while the Germans defenders were clearly familair with naval fighting. Another clarion call signaled the end of the training battle.

“I am glad I did not take you up on your bet, General.” The Ambassador was surprised to see that the Germans had been victorious in the test. The Songhai impi were sitting glumly on the barge, sporting large blue stains or soaked to the bone, having failed to board the barge at all. Perhaps half of the defenders were also sitting down, but that was small consolation to the Ambassador.

“I believe I see your point, General. Shall we see how the Songhai swordsmen do?

“Certainly. They will be armed with swords, of course, and their weapons will be dyed red, to distinguish them from their impi comrades.” The General made a signal to his aide, and another clarion call sounded. Both men turned their field glasses out to sea as the Songhai swordsmen rowed out to the barge.

“I suppose, General, you think that these Songhai swordsmen will succeed where the impi failed.”

“Actually, Ambassador, I expect them to fail as well, just not as badly as the impi did. Each German defender has been promised a twenty mark bonus if they succeed in defeating the second simulated attack.”

“I will take that wager, then, General.” The Ambassador took out a small sack and counted out twenty marks in coins. “Done,” replied the General. Both men looked with renewed interest at the impending battle.

This time the Songhai did much better. Perhaps a quarter of the assault force failed to successfully board the target barge, as the defenders were quickly pushed back. The Ambassador was surprised that his countrymen did not shout their defiance as they fought the German defenders. The Germans fought valiantly, but it was clear that their attackers knew what they were doing. Within five minutes, a dozen of the last remaining defenders were in a tight knot in the center, surrounded by some fifty Songhai swordsmen. It took only a few more minutes before the last German defender sat down. A score of Songhai swordsmen were left standing, out of the 250 men who rowed out some fifteen minutes before, though all looked happy at their victory.

Another clarion call sounded, officially ending the test battle. The General, with an impassive face, counted out the twenty marks to pay off his bet with the Ambassador.

“A pleasure doing business with you, General.” The Ambassador smiled at the General. “His Majesty will be very pleased at my report this day.”

[MTB4884]

February 12, 500 AD
Imperial Palace
Berlin, Germany, 11:30 p.m. B.S.T.

The Chancellor was about to retire for bed when a knock sounded on his bedroom door. He quietly moved to the door, mindful of his sleeping wife, and opened the door himself. “Yes?”

The new chamberlain stood on the other side. “I am sorry to disturb you at this hour, my Chancellor. The Military Minister has arrived with news from the front at Punjab.”

Now I know what Father meant when he said the war would find him wherever he was. “All right, Hermann. Tell the Minister that I shall receive him in my study in a few moments.” The Chancellor quickly got dressed again and walked to his study, where the Military Minister was waiting. The Chancellor noted with some concern that the Military Minister appeared tired and haggard.

“Good evening, Minister. Is there further word from Punjab?”

“There is, my Chancellor. It appears that the attack of the 5th Corps was successful. Marshall Bruner's diversionary tactics succeeded, allowing the city to be taken. None of our individual cavalry divisions were destroyed, though the 5th Corps took significant casualties in the fighting. Marshall Bruner also reports several Indian units to the north and northeast of the city, and recommends the 2nd Corps be tasked with their destruction.”

“Then do it, Minister. Where shall we send the troops who are not needed for garrison duty?

“The plan is to send them northeast, towards the city of Chittagong. I regret, however, that the steep mountainous terrain will slow our advance greatly. I do not believe we will have time to reach Chittagong.”

The Chancellor scowled at this news. “Then why put our troops in harm's way if they cannot reach the city, Minister?”

“My Chancellor, their mere presence will force the Indians to redirect their defenses. This will also deter them from attempting to retake Punjab or interfering with our railroad workers extending the rail line east from Lahore.”

“That appears to be a sound strategy, Minister. Proceed as you have suggested, and report any further progress at the usual briefing tomorrow.”

“It shall be done, my Chancellor.”

"Is there anything else to report, then?"

"There is one other matter, my Chancellor. General Halstead, the commander of our swordsman training brigade, reports that a successful test took place in Sparthage harbor yesterday morning. The Songhai swordsmen were able to successfully storm the test barge, when the impi failed."

"I see. Did the Songhai object that the test did not take archery fire into account?"

"There was a mild objection, but it appears the Songhai were very pleased with the performance of their swordsmen. General Halstead made and lost a bet of twenty marks with the Ambassador on this very point, in hopes of distracting him from that question. He reports that the Ambassador appeared quite pleased, and believes that this tactic was successful."

"That was an astute move on the General's part. It would indeed be worthwhile to keep the Songhai happy for such a meager sum. Tell the good General that I myself will reimburse his twenty marks, and remind me of this incident the next time there is a vacancy for the leadership of one of our Corps."

"It shall be done, my Chancellor."

“One thing more, Minister.” The Chancellor paused for a moment. “I must say that you appear to be driving yourself quite hard, even taking into account the lateness of the hour. Germany needs you at your best if we are to continue the advance against the Indians.”

“My Chancellor, it is my duty as Military Minister to plan the next moves of the various military campaigns.”

“That is true. It is also the duty of the Chancellor to step in when his staff needs some time off.” The Chancellor paused again. “Karl, my father once ordered you to take some time off, early in the war when it was necessary. I ask you to do the same now. It will take a careful plan to seize Puri next spring, and I need you at your best.”

The Minister noticed that the Chancellor used his Christian name for perhaps the first time since his election to the Chancellorship. “That is most kind of you, my Chancellor. I do of course remember what happened when you and I went to the Imperial Theater that night.”

The Chancellor smiled at that. “Indeed. I trust that this time, you will have a...less eventful break. I shall expect you, then, on Monday morning for the usual war briefing. I will have the chamberlain send a secure telegram to Prinz von Persien reporting the capture of Punjab to await the arrival of Father's train tomorrow night.”

“It shall be done, then, my Chancellor. Thank you and good night.”

"Good night, Karl, and have a pleasant weekend." The Military Minister bowed to his leader as usual, and then left the Chancellor's study with a lighter stride.

[wuhjah]

Originally Posted by MTB4884

General Halstead made and lost a bet of twenty marks with the Ambassador on this very point, in hopes of distracting him from that question. He reports that the Ambassador appeared quite pleased, and believes that this tactic was successful."

I never saw it coming.
Great work.

[MTB4884]

OOS: Thanks, wuhjah! Don't feel too bad-the Songhai didn't see this coming either (or so the Germans believe).

I'm working on several updates for next week. Scheduled updates include

Spoiler:

another barbarian battle, a naval engagement, and an attempted assassination.

Stay tuned, everyone!

[MTB4884]

OOS: Good news and bad news for the story. The bad news is that this may be the last story update for a few days while I deal with some RL work issues. On the plus side, I expect a new and unique element to show up in the story soon, which may also delay the next update. More details to follow shortly, so stay tuned, everyone!

February 13, 500 AD

Sultanate Barge
Caspain Sea
0630 hours, local time

Konrad von Bismarck, retired Chancellor of Imperial Germany, looked out over the foggy waters of the southern Caspian Sea after throwing his bait and hook overboard once again. General Wilhelm Tell was next to him, carefully baiting his own hook and line as the two men were fishing for the sturgeon who lurked in the dark waters. The Sultan and the Crown Prince were just to their left, also watching their fishing lines intently. Eight specially trained Janissary bodyguards armed with rifles rather than the traditional curved scimitars watched over the fishing party.

So far the retired Chancellor had caught nothing, not even a strike on his line for his efforts. Crown Prince Seljuk was the only one who had been at all successful, landing a relatively small fifteen kilo sturgeon yesterday morning. I thought we had terrible luck last year, when everyone else landed at least one sturgeon. It might have been better to invite the Sultan to Harz Mountain, where the fish are at least catchable, even if they are smaller.

The Crown Prince finally broke the silence. “Perhaps, O patient and wise Father, we should seek the counsel of the guides to find a more productive fishing spot.”

“The sturgeon are here, somewhere, my son. This is where I caught my prize fish two years ago. A little more patience is all I ask for now.”

The Crown Prince was obviously unsatisfied, but knew better than to challenge the Sultan on this point. Instead, he turned to his rod and gradually began to reel in his bait. He was surprised to see the hook break the surface missing its bait. “Something down there is interested in our bait, O wise Father.”

“Indeed, my son.” The Sultan smiled at his son, as the latter signaled an attendant for fresh bait, which was supplied in mere moments. A two-note fanfare sounded, as the fishing party turned towards the shore. “It is the Grand Vizier. Something important must have happened.” The Sultan looked towards his German visitors, indecision plain on his face.

“Perhaps you should deal with whatever the affair of state is which has brought your most trusted advisor here, Sultan. The sturgeon will still be here upon your return.”

The Sultan gratefully acknowledged the point. “Thank you, Chancellor Konrad. You at least know what a ruler must go through on a regular basis.” He quickly stood and walked towards the gangplank, with six of the Janissaries guards following just behind him. The remaining two bodyguards shifted position to just behind the Crown Prince.

General Tell and the Crown Prince watched the Sultan intently, while the Chancellor contented himself with idly looking out into the Caspian Sea. A few moments later the Sultan returned. “A thousand pardons, Chancellor. The Grand Vizier tells me that I am urgently needed at the capital. It is only a day's journey from here, and so I hope to be back on Friday.”

“No apologies are necessary, Sultan. I know from my own long experience that such things happen. Fair winds and a pleasant journey, and I hope to leave a few sturgeon behind for you upon your return.”

The Sultan smiled again at his guest, and then quickly left the gangplank, with his six bodyguards just behind. A brief call and a rattling noise signaled the departure of the Sultan's carriage.

The Crown Prince, who had stood at his father's departure, now spoke to the nearest guard in a low voice. The guard nodded and quickly left the barge as well. “I have asked the guard to seek counsel of the local guides. They know more about the habits of our quarry than we do.”

“A good idea, Crown Prince,” replied the Chancellor. “It was also prudent to listen to your father, rather than challenging him directly. You will make a fine leader for the Turkish people one day.”

Whatever the Crown Prince might have said was interrupted as the Janissary guard retured. “The guides suggest that we go to either Sword Shoals, just to the north, or to Aksuma Point, a klick to the south.”

“Then we will listen to the counsel of those wiser in the ways of the sturgeon than we.” The Crown Prince turned to the retired Chancellor. “Would you prefer to take a skiff to Swords Shoals or Aksuma Point?”

The Chancellor looked to his General, who unobtrusively raised his right hand, pointing north. “I do not think it makes a great deal of difference. Sword Shoals is a little closer, and so I think, with your gracious permission, General Tell and I will take a skiff there. We shall meet back here tonight, hopefully with a fish or two as well.”

The Crown Prince nodded his agreement. “As you wish. May we both return here with a fine catch and a finer story to tell!” He made a quick gesture, and the two Janissaries quickly followed him to a skiff tied to the bow. General Tell quickly gathered the fishing gear as the Germans boarded another skiff and began to row northwards. A light mist was settling in, and the barge was soon lost behind them as the two Germans neared Sword Shoals.

“I think we are here, my Chancellor,” said the General wearily.

“Very well.” The Chancellor himself dropped the anchor over the gunwale, and waited a few seconds until it hit the bottom some ten meters below. “May I ask why you wanted to go here rather than to Aksuma Point?”

The General looked grave for a moment. “I caught part of what the Grand Vizier was telling his Sultan. Someone, I am not certain who, wished to speak to the Sultan in Samarkand of a matter of national importance.”

“How do you know that, General?”

“My Chancellor, I still remember the arts of lip reading which were once commonly taught in the Empire. It has proven useful on other occasions. I am quite certain of what I saw. Since Sword Shoals is closer to the Sultan's barge than Aksuma Point, we are better off here.”

“Ah. I thought you simply did not wish to row farther than necessary.” The retired Chancellor smiled a little, though there was no answering smile on the General's face. “It is more than that, my Chancellor. I have a bad feeling about this. My instincts tell me something else is wrong.”

“You think the Turks are up to something? The German people wiill react forcefully if anything were to happen to us while on this trip. It would also be a grave breach of the Turkish reputation for hospitality.”

The General was not convinced. “You are right, my Chancellor. I am certain that there is more going on here than we have been told.”

“Then you must remain vigilant, my dear General. Your insight has proven invaluable on numerous occasions. For now, we should resume our quest for these elusive sturgeon.”

[MTB4884]

OOS: RL situation has been dealt with for now. I may be out of town for a couple days next week though. I'm also working on another Civ writing project (more about that fairly soon). Next update coming right up!

***

February 13, 500 AD

Sword Shoals, Caspian Sea, Turkmenistan
1630 hours, local time

The fishing remained dead all morning and into the afternoon. Finally, as the day drew on, something tugged firmly on Chancellor Konrad's line. He yanked his rod back to set the hook, as the local guides had instructed him earlier. The sturgeon on the other end of the line quickly took off for deeper water. The Chancellor maintained as much pressure as he could to try to tire the fish as the General yanked his own rod back. “I am sorry, my Chancellor. I think something has my line as well.”

“Finally, General! We shall catch them both, and have something to show to the good Crown Prince tonight after all!” His only answer was a grim smile. “We shall try, my Chancellor.”

There was a tremendous splash some thirty meters away as the sturgeon on the General's line jumped. It must be two meters long at least! “Did you see that, my Chancellor?”

“No, but I heard it from here, General.” The line was disappearing rapidly as Chancellor Konrad's fish tried to get away, despite his best efforts to stop it. General Tell knew that he had to make a choice. It is my duty to aid my Chancellor, whatever the cost. The General reached for his knife and held it against his taut line with his free hand for a moment. The line parted instantly.

Chancellor Konrad was nearly at the end of his own line when the skiff began to move. General Tell had taken the oars and was rowing the skiff south after the sturgeon. “General? What happened to your fish?”

“I had to make a choice, my Chancellor. It was my sad duty to cut my line so that I can help you catch your fish.”

The retired Chancellor was silent for a long moment. “I shall not forget your sacrifice, my old friend.” He turned towards the water with a renewed sense of purpose. General Tell's sacrifice must not be in vain!

Thirty minutes later, the two Germans wondered who was tiring who. They had traveled nearly a klick to the south, trying to keep the sturgeon from pulling all the line out. Suddenly the line suddenly slackened as the fish changed direction, swimming towards the skiff as the Chancellor reeled in as best he could.

“There, General!” The Chancellor's fish surfaced for the first time, with a great swirl of water. General Tell coiled some of the anchor rope, ready to attempt to lasso the tail of the sturgeon once it got close enough. There is no way that fish will fit into the net. “Are you ready, General?”

“Yes, my Chancellor.” The Chancellor slowly maneuvered the fish close to the gunwale, and the General managed to get a loop around the tail. The sturgeon thrashed, nearly knocking the General overboard as the Chancellor swung a stout cudgel at the fish, trying to subdue it. It took the combined efforts of both men to get the sturgeon safely roped to the side of the skiff. The sturgeon was just under two meters long.

“Well, General,” gasped Chancellor Konrad once the fish had been properly secured, “I do believe we have caught a fine sturgeon this day, thanks to you.”

“Indeed, my Chancellor. We will have a fine story to tell as well once we return home to Germany.”

The General's comment stirred something in Chancellor Konrad's mind. Perhaps there is an appropriate way I can reward the good General upon our return to Germany. I will have a quiet word with the reporter fellow from Deutche Welte and tell him about the General's sacrifice. He looked around and realized the weather had gotten much worse while he was fighting the sturgeon. Black storm clouds were moving southwards across the Caspian Sea towards them.

”We should return to the barge. It is dangerous to be out on an inland sea in a thunderstorm.” A distant sound of thunder underscored the Chancellor's words, as the General paused for a moment.

“That was not just thunder, my Chancellor. I heard something from the south, while the approaching storm is to the north.” Both men heard a gunshot, and then three more in rapid succession, confirming the General's belief. The two Germans quickly rowed to shore, some two hundred meters from the Sultanate barge, and beached the skiff in a sandy cove.

“Now what, General?”

Another shot sounded from the south. “I think someone is attacking the Sultanate barge. We are probably safer here than if we approach the barge.”

Chancellor Konrad thought for a few moments. “I am an old man now, General. I shall not sit here cowering while assassins attack the Crown Prince. Let us try to get closer to see what is happening down there.”

The two Germans carefully made their way through the trees towards the barge, pausing every ten meters or so to listen. They heard no more gunfire, though the silence did not reassure them. The assassins might be gone, or they might be waiting for us. Dusk was falling by the time they reached another tree some forty meters away from the barge. General Tell could see a sentry standing guard near the gangplank to the barge, armed with an older-style musket. There was no obvious signs of either the Janissary guards or the Crown Prince.

“Can you identify the sentry, General?”

“No, my Chancellor.” The door to the aft cabin opened, and a man began to walk down the gangplank to the sentry. “A moment, my Chancellor.” The General carefully looked through his field glasses, but could not see the man's face clearly from his position. The newcomer spoke to the sentry, and stood next to him for a moment.

Suddenly the door opened again, and a man's raised voice could be clearly heard. A chill went down the Chancellor's spine as he realized that the unknown man was speaking in Hindi, not Turkish. The first sentry shouted something in reply, and then began walking into the woods towards the Germans. “He is coming this way, my Chancellor.”

General Tell took his fishing knife from its sheath and held it carefully before him. Seeing this, the Chancellor picked up a loose stone and waited for the General's signal. “Now!”

The sentry was startled by a rock whizzing by his head, and turned around, musket in hand. He was just in time to see the hilt of the fishing knife embed itself in his right lung as he dropped the gun with suddenly nerveless fingers. The General sprang forward as the Chancellor struggled to his feet. A musket shot rang out as the General reached the dying man and seized his weapon. Another musket shot narrowly missed the Chancellor as the General returned, cluthcing his right shoulder. “We must flee, my Chancellor!”

Neither German needed further urging to retreat back to the skiff. General Tell helped the Chancellor along, despite his own injury. Two musket balls narrowly missed them as they reached the shore where they had beached their fishing skiff.

An angry voice in Turkish stopped them. “Halt! Who goes there!”

“I am General Wilhelm Tell, and this is retired Chancellor Konrad von Bismarck. Indian agents are assaulting the Sultanate barge as we speak!”

“No longer, General Tell,” replied the same voice in accented but fluent German. Both Germans were surprised to see the familiar features of General Aziz, chief of the Sultan's armies. “The message asking the Sultan to return to Samarkand was actually a ruse. We came back just in time to rescue the Crown Prince from his assailants, though both his bodyguards were killed defending him.”

“General Aziz, the Indians are a grave threat to us all. We shall not be safe until their evil tyranny is destroyed forever. Please, General Tell is wounded and needs medical attention at once.” The Turkish General stepped forward, and then shouted an order in Turkish. There was a rustling in the trees as someone raced off to carry out his orders. "Do not worry, gentlemen," said General Aziz. "You are safe now."

[MTB4884]

February 15, 500 AD

Imperial Palace
Berlin, Germany
0715 B.S.T.

The Chancellor awoke to the sound of the intercom. “Yes?” he sleepily asked.

“I am sorry to wake you, my Chancellor, but the Military Minister is here to see you.”

“Very well. I will be there directly.”

The Chancellor got dressed, noting with relief that his wife Eva was still sound asleep, and went downstairs to the study. The Minister was waiting for him.

“I came as soon as I heard the news, my Chancellor. I was out of town as you ordered on Friday, and only got back early this morning.”

“Then I can fill you in on the situation for a change. It appears that a group of Indian partisans somehow managed to learn of Father's fishing trip to the Caspian Sea. They were able to decoy the Sultan back to Samarkand and mounted an assault on the Sultnate barge. The Turkish Crown Prince was wounded, but will survive. General Tell was also seriously wounded. Fortunately Father escaped uninjured.”

“Thank God for that, my Chancellor. Did the Turks capture any of the partisans alive?”

“Not yet. Our information is still rather sketchy, as you might imagine. We will know more once Father reaches Prinz von Persien on Wednesday.”

The Military Minister looked grave at this. “Why did the Indian partisans attack the Crown Prince? How did he get wounded?”

“Those are very good questions, Minister. We simply do not know why at this time.”

The Minister frowned. “We must increase security here at the Imperial Palace, my Chancellor. The Mahatma was willing to risk war with the Turks to attack Chancellor Konrad, and he would not hesitate to make a similar attempt against you if he thought he could succeed.”

An odd look crossed the Chancellor's face for a moment. “I appreciate your concern for my personal safety, Minister. Colonel Voglen told me the same thing yesterday, when we first heard the news. A full brigade of Imperial Guardsmen is now patrolling the Palace grounds. Lady Eva is most displeased that she will not be permitted to attend the art gallery exhibit she is sponsoring.”

“Surely Lady Eva understands the necessity for proper security precautions, my Chancellor.”

The Chancellor scowled for a moment. “That does not mean she approves of it, Minister. I am sorry to add to your workload, but I want you and Colonel Voglen to review the security procedures in Berlin and at the Palace itself.”

“It shall be done, my Chancellor. Will there be anything else?”

“Not for now, Minister.” Again an odd look crossed the Chancellor's features. “I trust you had a more relaxing weekend than I.”

“Indeed, my Chancellor. Birgitte and I had a most enjoyable time at the beach.”

A knock on the study door interrupted the Chancellor. “Come in!”

The chamberlain came in, looking rather pale and haggard. “My Chancellor, the Foreign Minister is here with urgent news.”

“Send him in, then.”

Foreign Minister Horst von Steinberg came in, giving a nod to his colleague and a bow to his leader. “My Chancellor, I have just received a radio message from our Embassy in Samarkand. The Sultan wishes to speak with you personaly over the radio on 'a matter of great import to Turkmenistan and Imperial Germany.'”

“Then we will go to the radio room and see what the Sultan has to say.” The three men went upstairs to the radio room. None of them commented on the additional Imperial Guardsmen patrolling the Palace halls, or the two guards at the radio room door. They quickly went inside the radio room, where the equipment had already been set set up for them. The Foreign Minister handed the microphone to the Chancellor as a voice came over the radio speaker. “Imperial Palace, this is Ambassador Schmidt of the German Embassy. Are you receiving me?”

“Yes, Ambassador. We can hear you loud and clear.” There was a brief rattling noise, and then a new voice came over the speaker. “Chancellor Otto, this is Sultan Alhazred Timur-Lenk. Your father and the good General Tell are here in the Embassy with me. I wished to express my abject and personal apologies for exposing Chancellor Konrad to such danger.”

“I accept your apology, Sultan. You are not to blame in this matter. I know the perfidy of the Mahatma's agents all too well. One such agent attempted to kill me, and only General Tell's heroism saved me from death at their hands.” Chancellor Otto paused for a moment to think. “How, may I ask, is the Crown Prince?”

“My physicians tell me that my son will recover, though he is still in the infirmary.” There was a brief pause. “General Aziz tells me that none of the men who attacked the Sultanate barge were captured alive. We think they were Indian partisans, intending to assassinate Chancellor Konrad, but we have no definitive proof.”

“Do the Indians have any explanation for this outrage, Sultan?”

“They claim that whoever did this was not acting under the Mahatma's orders, and say that many in India have good reason to hate Chancellor Konrad.”

“And you believe the Indians?” Chancellor Otto's own skepticism was obvious, even through the static of the radio speaker.

“I cannot definitively prove otherwise, Chancellor Otto. We shall of course continue to investigate this matter further.”

“A prudent course of action, Sultan.” Chancellor's Otto's fists were clenched in anger, though one would not have known this merely from his speech. “How is General Tell?”

“Ah. I nearly forgot the other reason I came here.” There was another long pause. Chancellor Otto was beginning to suspect that the radio connection had been lost when the Sultan's voice came over the speaker once more. “General Wilhelm Tell, it has come to my attention that you have acted in a manner most valiant and exemplary. You acted to assist the Crown Prince, and slew one of his assailants, at the risk of your own life and at the cost of a grievous personal injury while a guest of the Sultan and the Turkish people.” There was another brief pause.

“It is thus my great privilege as Sultan to grant and award you the Order of the Golden Sturgeon.” There was yet another break, and then the familiar voice of General Tell came over the speaker. “Um...thank you very much, O...um...gracious Sultan. I gratefully accept your...er...kindness and generosity to this humble servant of the German Empire.”

The Sultan's voice came back on over the speaker. “Chancellor Otto, you are fortunate indeed to have a man like General Tell in your service. Until we meet again in friendship, Chancellor.”

“Fare thee well, Sultan.” There was a distant set of noises, until Chancellor Konrad's voice came on. “That was rather a surprise to me as well, son. At least the good General Tell has a sturgeon to take home to Germany after all.”

Chancellor Otto's bewilderment was evident in his voice. “Father?”

A chuckle came over the speaker. “I shall tell you the full story when General Tell and I return home to Berlin. We should be there sometime next week.”

“I see, Father. I will be most anxious to hear all about it.”