A Brave New World Part 2

Never blame stupidity on which you can blame a combination of tiredness and drink
I would still blame stupidity for the tiredness and drink. Then again I suppose it's better that you posted your orders rather than, say, went driving.
 
La Mort Glacée

Maximilien Legacé had lived a generally quiet and simple life. Born on a brisk day in the winter of 1904, in the small town of Roblin, he attained modest results in school for six years before dropping out, to work and help his family survive during the great depression.

Following the Syndicalist Revolution and the brief German occupation, Legacé purchased his own small farm outside of Boissevain. An avid outdoorsman and hunter, he worked through the summer and spent his winters in the wilds, honing his survival skills and a developing a deadly shot.

Living a generally quiet life, his situation was dramatically and suddenly altered with the Virginian Invasion in May of 1936, drawing the Métis Syndicate into the great war raging across North America. Legacé’s home, possibly (and in hindsight, ironically) mistaken for an enemy strongpoint, was destroyed by Virginian artillery during the initial advance. Surviving the unexpected explosion of his house, Legacé managed to crawl his way out of the wooden wreckage several hours later, the Virginians having already advanced past his home.

Distinctly annoyed by this turn of events, Max walked to his shed to retrieve his LaSalle L-5 Hunting Rifle and filled a backpack with ammunition, before walking 40 kilometers through the emptied prairie to the town of Souris. Immediately joining the local militia, Legacé fought alongside militiamen and the beleaguered Métis army in a series of battles as the southwestern front was pushed northwards to the cities of Dauphin and Sainte Rose du Lac. The Métis and Virginian forces fought a back and forth series of battles at the edge of the forested region, fighting often reaching the edges of Dauphin. Virginians eventually advanced and encircled the city, separating the main army and isolating many of the militias into small pockets. While many militia scattered, to regroup further north, Legacé took de facto command of his company and set up a fortified position in and around an old Québecois bunker, a leftover from the Great War. Positioned near a critical road junction needed to transport Virginian tanks further northwards. Legacé’s forces held their position without supplies for 4 days, delaying the Virginian advance and giving the Métis forces time to regroup and launch a counterattack, retaking the region and freeing the contained forces.

Maximilien continued to fight around Dauphin throughout much of the summer months. In early September, he was part of an infiltration mission, to sabotage a Virginian supply depot providing shells and fuel for the warmachines in the region. While the mission succeeded and the storage facility was destroyed by several jury-rigged mines and the ensuing explosive detonations caused by the intense heat, the Métis force was discovered and became engaged in an intense firefight with Virginian infantry. Losing 7 soldiers, Legacé and 2 others managed to escape, splitting up to avoid their pursuers. Trapped again behind enemy lines, and this time alone, Legacé, not wanting to bring down the wrath of the occupiers on his fellow citizens, decided that he would return north entirely by his own means. In the process of doing so, he also managed to use his remaining explosives to disable two enemy tanks before evading his pursuers and making it back to friendly territory.

It was not until winter, however, that Max’s story would begin to grow to legendary proportions. Snowfall began in late September that year, quickly covering the prairies with a camouflaging layer of clean, white snow. The war stagnated into a static phase, with a roughly straight series of front lines stretching from Nipigon in the east to Winnipeg in the west. It was here that the previously decisive Virginian advantage began to fail. As temperatures dropped and heavy snow built up, the tanks and mobile artillery lost their effectiveness. While the white winter battle fatigues of the Métis allowed their soldiers to practically disappear into the brittle straw and snow, the green and brown camouflage of the Virginians, already somewhat inappropriate in the flaxen prairies, practically turned them into walking targets.

Legacé spent much of this time, crawling unseen through the snow or leading small skiing sorties towards the Virginians, striking without warning before retreating back into the deep snow, where they could not be outpaced. Even from a distance, Maximilien was deadly. Still using his trusted LaSalle L-5, painted to a dirty white hue to complete his snowy camouflage, he stalked along the front lines and even into no-man’s land, tallying many kills of Virginians unfortunate to raise their heads above the snowline. Supremely tolerant of the prairie winter, he would often bury himself in the snow, packing down a small area in front of himself and simply waiting. It was a very rare occasion when he failed to take advantage at the first sight of the enemy.

Much of the legend of Legacé and the assorted other marksmen of the Métis forces was in the psychological aspect of their fighting. Many Virginian soldiers heard from the locals the legend of the Wendigo, dreaded cannibalistic spirits of the winter. These creatures, or so the story goes, were emaciated and frozen, ashen in complexion, their eyes sunken, lips chapped and bloody, and skin stretched back from their lips like a corpse. It is said that the Wendigo is a malevolent spirit, possessing the bodies of those lost in the snow and driving them into a maddening hunger for human flesh, running through the night in their relentless hunt.

The terrible howl of the Wendigo- or in this case, Max Legacé- on a lightless, frigid December night was enough to drive many Virginians into sleepless panics. The Métis marksman did nothing to discourage the rumours, making regular late-night jaunts through no-man’s land, even taking on the persona of the monster, on occasion throwing waste meat or other bloody battlefield scraps over the Virginian trenches.

Virginian soldiers, huddling around their fires and struggling to keep their fingers from freezing, even began to exaggerate further on the legend, telling tales of ‘Mad Max’, and attributing all sorts of inexplicable occurrences to him.

Myths aside, however, Legacé remained an exceedingly effective soldier, consistently picking off several Virginian soldiers per day from his various hiding places on the battlefield. By the time of the New Year, he was approaching 200 casualties- but the war was still only in its early phases. Though the arctic winds were beginning to scream down from the north, the coldest months of winter were yet to come.

And despite this, no matter how frigid the day, Maximilien continued his slow, seemingly unstoppable rampage through the Virginian forces, many of whom were experiencing for the first time the joys of hypothermia and frostbite. His fellow soldiers reverently referred to him as ‘La Morte Glacée’- The Frozen Death. Virginians, their fingers stiffened and inoperative from the cold often cursed him by the same title.

The worst, for the Virginians, was still to come.
 
I apologize for the continuing delay of the updatre and regret that I dont really have a good excuse. Instead of updating I've been spending the past two days watching all of Dr. Who. Rather entertaining, but I've run out of episodes to watch, so I figure I may as well finish the update.
 
I apologize for the continuing delay of the updatre and regret that I dont really have a good excuse. Instead of updating I've been spending the past two days watching all of Dr. Who. Rather entertaining, but I've run out of episodes to watch, so I figure I may as well finish the update.

tsk tsk. :nono:
 
I apologize for the continuing delay of the updatre and regret that I dont really have a good excuse. Instead of updating I've been spending the past two days watching all of Dr. Who. Rather entertaining, but I've run out of episodes to watch, so I figure I may as well finish the update.

Very bad boy. Now, as punishment, you have to give us all a bonus for having us waiting! (Maybe the Doctor could land somewhere in Europe and bring some neat technology for us!)
 
I apologize for the continuing delay of the updatre and regret that I dont really have a good excuse. Instead of updating I've been spending the past two days watching all of Dr. Who. Rather entertaining, but I've run out of episodes to watch, so I figure I may as well finish the update.

I accept your excuse as I wish I had time to do the same.
 
Well him basically being a British Icon i see no reason why he cannot lead our armies and conquer the universe bringing about the second British Empire... Hmm though he may have moral issues with that, maybe we should just grab The Master
 
Well as long as France gets Daleks.
 
well we all know the Doctor always wins so im cool with that
 
Well, I'm having one or two issues with posting for some reason, and we need two posts to get the update to the next page. This post serves multiple purposes:

1. To remark upon Masada's awesome new look for his account. (Don't worry, i hear the drums too, especially with this update)

2. To state that the update is done, but I'm having some issues posting it. This is mainlly to check that I can actually post.
 
edit: my bad we calculated wrong I guess
 
Global News Report

ECONOMIC REPORT. Tsarityn, Russian Federation. The war in North America and the Caribbean continues to be at the forefront of economic concerns this year. The near collapse of the American trade zone, limited now to only New Englander shipping from their empire, has forced the abrupt closure to all but the most determined of merchants. European economists predict that colonial possessions remaining in the Caribbean may decline in value as soon as next year as the fighting continues to intensify. Concerns of possible entry into the war by European powers as the socialists advance also bring about fears of the beginnings of further recession in Europe. The closure of the Nicaraguan Canal has also threatened some business efforts, though it has greatly increased the value of the Panama and Suez Canals for shipping to the Far East. As before, economic changes are listed below, changes caused by occupation due to war are NOT listed here however:
Alaska: -1 EP
Georgia: -1 EP
Iroquois Republic: -1 EP
New Englander colony of Panama: +1 EP
Republic of New France: -1 EP
United Collectives of North America: -2 EP
Virginian Nicaragua: -2 EP
Argentine Collectives Federation: -2 EP
Cuba: +4 EP
Russian Federation: +1 EP
Scotland: -1 EP
Swedish Empire: -1 EP
Egypt: +1 EP

North American News Report

VIRGINIANS REACH COMPROMISE. Charleston, Virginian Empire. To the relief of the Virginian nation, the Conservative movement based in Carolina have renounced their king in favor of reconciliation with the government in Richmond. After several terse months of negotiations, the Virginian regime has agreed to grant more power to the legislatures of the various states of the mainland empire. This move for more state rights has further decentralized the center of the empire, as the individual states gain control over racial relations as well as other pressing domestic issues and development. The militaries of the states have been rejoined, as the fight against socialism continues both at home and abroad. (+2 Stability)

CHICAGO ELECTIONS. Chicago, Free City of Chicago. The fighting between the eastern nations and the United Collectives are understandably the most pressing issue for the Chicago people this year. Though the election campaign did see the rise of the Liberals calling for peace before destruction, the victories in Canada and the Algonquin Nation seemed to put these fears to rest. The Conservative Party has vowed to continue its support of the Republic of New England and to maintain its forces on the front lines of the war. The conservatives won the backing of the nation, and have managed to keep support for the war effort. (+1 Stability)

ELECTIONS IN GEORGIA SPARK CIVIL UNREST. Savannah, Georgia. The long anticipated elections were held this year in Georgia as the people were brought together under the threat of invasion from the United Collectives. Even staunch Liberals admitted that the Dahl government would more likely be able to maintain a united front against the communists, though none saw the fighting with Louisiana coming. The black population backed the Liberal Party, though some protested against the restrictions on the running of socialist or communist candidates. By the closing times of polls, it was clear that the Ku Klux Klan had won a great electoral victory. After fighting intensified in Louisiana between Georgian and socialist forces, a full scale revolt erupted among the black population, as they rose up to support the United Collectives. The Collectives of the Mississippi was vital in the latter part of the year, securing major crossing across that river for the Collective forces as they drove east. They have vowed not to ever again fall under the slave whips of the Klan. (+12 Infantry brigades for the UCNA)

NEW ENGLAND ELECTIONS. Boston, Republic of New England. The war with the United Collectives of North America was very nearly the only issue of interest in this year’s elections in the Republic of New England. The war’s escalation and the fighting in Georgia have caused many to believe that the war must continue to be fought until the communist tide can be held back. The threat of communism has even helped unify elements of New York with the larger New England, as the state had its highest voter turnout in its membership with the Republic. The Conservative Party is widely considered to be the party of war and security against the communists, pledging to maintain New England empire and sovereignty against the socialist threat. (+1 Stability)

BLOODSHED IN DESERET AS COUP FAILS. Bringhamton, Deseret. For the first time in several years, another general has made a serious bid for control of the North American nation of Deseret. Even as a much larger war continues to grow around them, the feuds and near anarchy of the formerly Mormon nation continue without closure. A general who had united several of the militias and towns of the east made a effort to secure control of the entire nation. A brutal war took place as a result throughout the year as Governor-General Young’s forces continued to hold back the offensive tide. The government managed to repulse the offensive and even managed to restore order over several wayward militias, though they were only able to force the usurper to acknowledge Young’s position once again, and were not able to depose him from his strongholds in the east. Foreign observers believe that it is only a matter of time before another attempt is made and Deseret continues its bloody war. (-2 Stability, -20 Infantry Brigades, -10 Artillery Brigades, -12 Manpower)

COUP LAUNCHED IN FLORIDA. Saint Augustine, Florida. A group of radical rightist Floridians made a bid to seize power from the Graham government this year, hoping to align the nation against Georgia and the United Collectives. They rejected the Graham policy of neutrality in the ongoing war, and claimed he had lost the right to rule the nation. The result was a bloody limited civil war as government forces struggled to retain control against its own military. Fortunately, the navy and air force remained loyal to the standing government, giving a decisive edge for the control of the coast and flatlands. The heavy fighting was contained to central Florida as the revolting generals attempted to move north against Saint Augustine. Once again, however, the Graham government has proven resistant against assault by its internal foes. The cost was dear with almost half the military incapacitated by the fighting and the nation once again torn apart by conflict. (+1 Stability, -21 Infantry Brigades, -4 Artillery Brigades, -1 Oliver Mk2 Squadron)

STRIKES ERUPT INTO VIOLENCE IN VIRGINIA. Columbus, Virginian Empire. The illegal unions of the Virginian Empire have led a massive, nationwide strike of unprecedented ferocity this year against the war effort. Stated by the national press to be the cause of a national socialist underground to sabotage the war at home, elements of the home army have been deployed to break the strikes. Unlike in previous strikes related to the East Atlantic Customs Union, however, the strikers have been prepared for this action. The strikers managed to repulse both company breakers and the military from the various factories, and have even begun to fly red banners upon the factories they have “liberated” from corporate control. The strikers have demanded immediate legalization of the unions as well as recognition of labor rights which have been demanded for some time. Some reports of soldiers deserting to the strikers side have been unconfirmed by the government, but the strength of the strike seems to lend credence to those rumors. (-1 Stability, -1 Infantry Brigade, -2 Manpower)

Central/South American News Report

ARSENAL OF VICTORY. Havana, Cuba. The continuing escalation of combat in North America and the Caribbean have led to businesses and industries in overrun countries to look for safe harbor. The military of Cuba has shown itself more than capable of protecting itself from socialist attack or invasion, and has welcomed businesses to invest in both their nation and occupied Jamaica. The opening of Jamaica to all international and friendly businesses has been seen as a step for rebuilding the island, particularly as refugees from the Empire of Louisiana begin settling in the devastated cities, attempting to rebuild their lives amid the ruins of the Jamaican socialist state. The normal business activities of construction have been followed by the arms industries, which have exploded with demands, as Cuba becomes the protected safe haven for supply production for the desperate remnants of the Louisianan and Texan militaries and governments in exile.

VENEZUELA ELECTIONS. Caracas, Venezuela. The rising war in North America and the Caribbean Sea have led to a large amount of growing fear in the non-socialist nations of South America. Though recent unrest in the Socialist Union of South America and the Argentine Collectives have given hope that socialism is not invincible, the massive armies to the south give pause to all but the most radical. In this climate of fear and confusion, the Conservative Party of Venezuela has easily gained the support it needs for an electoral victory this year. Pledging to continue the growth of the nation’s military and security preparations, the Conservatives have vowed not to be unprepared whenever the socialist scourge chooses to move north.

CIVIL WAR IN ARGENTINA. Buenos Aires, United Atlantic Cities. A major uprising has at last taken place throughout eastern Argentina as Buenos Aires and its associated cities have broken out long concealed arms from the German army, left behind during the first communist war. Denouncing the communist party, and calling out in the name of democratic freedom, Buenos Aires has led the formation of the United Atlantic Cities. This body of virtual city-states have led to a hasty formation of a new army, which has already won several victories against the communist army. They have demanded independence along the old borders of the Buenos Aires Protectorate. The communist party has been illegalized, and collaborators with the socialists have either fled or been executed for treason by the emerging new government. One way or another, a new war has spread to South America.

GUYANA DESTABILIZING. Faustinville, Empire of Haiti. The intensifying civil war in Haiti has had an effect on the Haitian colonial possessions across the Caribbean Sea. The colony of Guyana has been the hardest hit as its exports drop and unemployment continues to grow. Moves have been made within the local government to find ways to make the colony self-sufficient from Port-au-Prince, converting commercial crops in the region to foodstuffs. Local militias have also been established as the colony faces the possible threat of an intervention force from the Socialist Union. Without any support from Haiti proper, the former French colony continues to amass what it can to prepare itself for any possible onslaught. (-5 Stability for Haitian Guyana)

URUGUAYAN REVOLT. Montevideo, Uruguayan Collective. Adding to the tensions of South America, the Collective of Uruguay has seen a demonstration against the larger government of the Socialist Union. The Uruguayan socialist leaders have proclaimed that the government in Rio de Janeiro has taken a course away from the original point of the Union. Stating that the union was only a defensive procedure, the recent offensives against Paraguay and into the north are against the basis of the organization. The Uruguayan Collective government have recalled its troops from the larger military, and has announced that it no longer recognizes the Union’s government as the true will of the people. As of this year, Uruguay has resumed control of its own foreign policy, but hopes to at least retain economic ties with the International Socialist Cooperative Group, and amicable relations. With the seccession of Uruguay, the other collectives in Rio Grande du Sol and Pernambuco watch with anticipation, wondering at what Rio’s action will be towards the wayward state.

HAITIAN CIVIL WAR. Port-au-Prince, Empire of Haiti. Fighting in Haiti has taken on severe brutality as the various factions employ all means to secure victory. The heaviest fighting on the island took place within Port-au-Prince itself, as imperial and communist forces struggle for control of the island empire’s capitol. The lack of artillery support and only limited tank support for both sides has made the battle into an urban bloodbath as communist and imperial supporter alike struggle futilely for control. Tank superiority has enabled some advances by the imperial faction, but the increasing rubble and use of buildings as temporary fortresses have enabled the communists to nullify the gains. After a year of fighting, communists remained entrenched in the city, denying the northern parts from the imperialists. An ambitious bid to knock the Grand Kingdom of Hispaniola went awry as the kingdom’s forces deployed captured communist planes against the imperial government. Bombers successfully sunk a imperial battleship as well as numerous supporting ships when they attempted an assault on the Kingdom’s coastline. The two forces also clashed as the kingdom and imperials drove against the Taino Republic, and then soon fought each other in the south. The Haitian Zeppelin Corps was soon brought down by a flurry of Kingdom fighters, bringing down even the massive zeppelin dreadnought.
Casualty List
Empire of Haiti: 3 Infantry Brigades, 2 Faustin Brigades, 2 Marine Brigades, 4 Destroyers, 1 Light Cruiser, 1 Heavy Cruiser, 1 Atlantic-class Battleship, 3 MR Submarines, 1 Zeppelin Bomber Squadron, 2 Zeppelin Dreadnoughts
People’s Republic of Haiti: 3 Infantry Brigades
Grand Kingdom of Hispaniola: 1 Infantry Brigade, 2 PA-1 Squadrons
Taino Republic: 1 Infantry Brigade

THE GREAT AMERICAN WAR. Osceola, Florida. The ferocity of the Great American War has only continued to escalate throughout the year as armies of unprecedented size clash across the great plains west of the Mississippi River. Betrayal has compounded betrayal as the nations of the east prove unwilling to cooperate against the continuing communist invasion from the United Collectives. With the Mississippi River defense line breached in multiple places, many fear that the Texan Republic and the Empire of Louisiana may not be the last nations to fall to invasion. For the full details of the war, please see the section created below just for this hemisphere spanning conflict.

SPECIAL: The Great American War

ALGONQUIN FRONT. Fox Falls, Algonquin Nation. The fighting in the Algonquin state has been more of a seesaw of forces than actual fluid warfare. The year started in the favor of the socialists as more and more troops were thrown into the conflict, including the remnants of the Socialist Union of South America’s expeditionary force. They neared the Mississippi River line when a massive Virginian counter-attack forced them all the way back, deep into Lakota territory before fresh recruits could stop the advance and once against start pushing east. The Virginians and Algonquin were once again in retreat, as more Allied forces were thrown into the line, creating a surprisingly diverse army. Forces from Cuba, Chicago, Pennsylvania, and New England were all thrown into the front, and once again the socialists found their armies in retreat. The bloodshed has been heavy, and though in the south, the communists sweep all before them, the Missouri River and Virginian forces maintaining it have stopped several attempts to attack the southern flank of the Allied offensive in the north. The Allies have gained full air superiority in the north, successfully using new dive bombers against the communists, and strafing enemy positions. Observers believe that the wiping of the skies of communist forces may well have been as key as overwhelming numbers to the Allied victory, as most of the support brigades such as artillery or armor was devastated by Virginian bombing attacks.
Casualty List
United Collectives of North America: 112 Infantry Brigades, 15 Artillery Brigades, 1 Marine Brigade, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 10 Tomahawk Brigades, 4 PA-1 Squadrons, 5 AFB-01 Squadrons
Socialist Union of South America: 10 Infantry Brigades, 5 Artillery Brigades
Algonquin Nation: 42 Infantry Brigades, 4 Artillery Brigades, 1 Anti-Air Brigade, 1 Anti-Tank Brigade
Virginian Empire: 32 Infantry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade, 1 Murphy Brigade, 3 Faustin Brigades, 1 Anti-Tank Brigade, 1 Tyr-1 Squadron, 4 Oliver Mk2 Squadrons, 2 Jaguar Squadrons
Pennsylvania: 10 Infantry Brigades
Republic of New England: 12 Infantry Brigades
Free City of Chicago: 4 Infantry Brigades
Cuba: 2 Infantry Brigades

BETRAYAL IN LOUISIANA. New Orleans, Empire of Louisiana. Betrayal and bravery have both made themselves present this year in the war-torn Empire of Louisiana. After promising full commitment and support to the war against the United Collectives of North America, the governments of Georgia and Tennessee soon turned upon their newfound allies. Declaring that they were acting to prevent a surrender of the Louisianan government to the communists, the two Co-Axial Pact nations struck a killing blow against their former allies. The attack began soon after the Georgian elections when Governor Dahl initiated executive order sixty six, ordering Georgian military forces to seize strategic points throughout Louisiana even as fighting continued between Allied and communist forces to the west. The Axis forces were able to successfully seize control of the Mississippi River crossings and occupied a large part of Louisiana, though faced by incredible resistance by the army of Louisiana. To the dismay of the Co-Axial Pact’s forces however, the United Collectives pressed on, overrunning Georgian forces which expected to meet in peace. The socialist forces surprised and slaughtered the Co-Axial Pact’s armies which had just fought a brutal war against the Louisianans. The advance was incredibly successful, and thanks to the help of communists in Georgia, the UCNA has cross the Mississippi River at multiple points. The rapid capture of key roads and bridges trapped a large number of Georgian units and many destroyed their vehicles and weapons, attempting to flee across the Mississippi River to return home. The Georgian military west of the Mississippi soon broke down, leaving only what had remained on the east side of the bridge as the socialists quickly advanced. The Georgian army was badly mauled and many believe that Atlanta itself may have been overrun if not for the arrival of unexpected aid. A small army of Chinese soldiers arrived late in the year, volunteering for combat against the socialist armies once again. They successfully demonstrated bravery which brought the Georgians out of their rout and the communist force was halted. The Texan military breathed its last gasps this year with the fall of the main Texan army in a siege in Houston. With support cut off from Louisiana, the Texans fought hard to hold the nation’s old capitol against the communist army. Wave after wave was thrown against them, but they held on. Only when running out of supplies, including food and ammunition, the Texans evacuated under the determined cover of brave volunteers from the Cuban air force serving at the last active air field. The Cuban navy rushed their fleet and forces at considerable risk to evacuate the Texan military with all spare ships, including fishing boats and island ferries. Though the army was defeated, many Texans will continue to live on to fight another day, as the Texan government and remnants of the military flee to Cuba. Not all has been grim for the Allies however in the south, despite the Georgian betrayal. New Orleans stands free for the Allies, as the city of Baton Rogue becomes the last great Louisianan stronghold. Originally held by only a single brigade against Georgian attacks, as the Axis invasion grew, the military threw more and more into the city’s defense. The Mississippi River blocked any moves around the city to the east, while impassible swamps blocked movement to the west. First the Georgian, then socialist forces threw themselves against the bulwark of Baton Rogue, only to be met with heavy casualties in a brutal slaughter. The commander of the army has stated “Ils ne passeront pas” declaring that the Louisianan forces will fight to the last to deny the enemy the capitol of New Orleans, becoming a beacon of hope for the Allied cause as casualties continue to mount for both sides. In the skies, the communist forces have dominated, surprise bringing down much of the Georgian air force, while sheer numbers have prevented the successful deployment of much more than scattered amounts of Cuban fighters brought in by sea. The close-air support Jaguars and the G-35s deployed have proven to be next to useless against communist air superiority fighters and large numbers have been brought down with little payoff for both Allies and the Co-Axial Pact. Other news from the field has discussed great atrocities by Tennessean and Georgian troops against the Louisianan population, particularly against blacks. Massacres have been reported in several cities though no confirmation has been made upon these remarks and rumors.
United Collectives of North America: 191 Infantry Brigades, 5 Artillery Brigades, 3 Anti-Tank Brigades, 20 Tomahawk Brigades, 10 PA-1 Squadrons, 7 AFB-01 Squadrons
Tennessee: 40 Infantry Brigades, 6 Artillery Brigades, 3 Hotchkiss Brigades, 1 Highlander Brigade, 3 A-35 Brigades, 2 Anti-Tank Brigades, 10 G-35 Squadrons, -1 Stability
Georgia: 178 Infantry Brigades, 29 Artillery Brigades, 1 Armored Car Brigade, 3 Highlander Brigades, 30 A-35 Brigades, 10 Anti-Tank Brigades, 10 Anti-Air Brigades, 2 Zeppelin Bomber Squadrons, 1 Zeppelin Dreadnought, 20 G-35 Squadrons
Texan Republic: 70 Infantry Brigades, 6 Cavalry Brigades, 8 Artillery Brigades, 3 Faustin Brigades, 4 Taylor Brigades, 6 Monitors
Empire of Louisiana: 301 Infantry Brigades, 3 Cavalry Brigades, 35 Artillery Brigades, 12 Anti-Air Brigades, 8 Anti-Tank Brigades, 36 Faustin Brigades, 7 Oliver Mk2 Squadrons, 26 Jaguar Squadrons

NICARAGUA FRONT. Leesville, Virginian Empire. Virginian colonial forces in Nicaragua met with a severe setback this year as massive forces from the United Collectives arrived to give aid to the local socialist rebels. Using Honduran and Guatemalan supply lines, the United Collectives sent in a strong expeditionary force to drive back the Virginians. The reinforcement of the garrison however, has made this a difficult task. Nicaraguan collectives in the south were overrun by a large Virginian force, and after heavy fighting the Leesville region was secure. This was met with socialist advances in the north, as the western part of the canal was seized completely by ISCG military forces. Managua soon fell as well, overrun by sheer numbers, though the eastern canal still remains in Virginian hands. Nicaraguan troops have deployed a surprising new tactic against Virginian tanks, throwing flaming bottles of alcohol against them, and setting aflame. The new tactic has been called “Fireball gin” by the Virginians, and the term has caught on in other location as the method spreads in urban combat both in Haiti and Louisiana.
Casualty List
United Collectives of North America: 12 Infantry Brigades
Union of Nicaragua: 5 Infantry Brigades, 2 Anti-Tank Brigades, 1 Anti-Air Brigade
Virginian Empire: 8 Infantry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade, 3 Taylor Brigades, 1 Oliver Mk2 Squadron

METIS/CANADA FRONT. Winnipeg, occupied Metis Syndicate. The harshness of Canadian winter has taken a brutal toll upon forces fighting the Metis Syndicate and the People’s Republic of Canada. Quebecois and nationalist Canadian forces have made great strides against these two nations, however, as they are not immune to the cold either. The use of Osprey Squadrons by New England during good whether has utterly destroyed any tanks or artillery placements by the communist forces, forcing them to rely on their dwindling infantry reserves. The People’s Republic has shattered under the pressure put upon them by the Allied forces, while they continue heading west to bolster the struggling Metis. Overall, however, with the winter preventing full combat for the bulk of the year, the fighting has moved incredibly slowly, particularly with the Allied nations focusing their main forces to the fronts in the south. The Metis and Canadians have become a “sideshow” to the overwhelming size of the war in other theaters.
Casualty List
Metis Syndicate: 3 Infantry Brigades, 9 Artillery Brigades
People’s Republic of Canada: 10 Infantry Brigades, 17 Artillery Brigades, 4 Anti-Tank Brigades, 27 Faustin Brigades, 1 Oliver Mk1 Squadron, 1 Oliver Mk2 Squadron
Republic of New England: 4 Infantry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades, 7 Osprey Squadrons
Canada: 16 Infantry Brigades
Quebec: 14 Infantry Brigades, 6 Faustin Brigades
Pennsylvania: 3 Infantry Brigades
Virginian Empire: 2 Infantry Brigades

WAR IN THE CARIBBEAN. Havana, Cuba. The war in the Caribbean started slow early in the year as Allied forces systematically destroyed the last remaining communist forces in the region. The successes of the campaign against the smaller surface fleet brought about a “terror shelling” campaign by the Republic of New England. Systematically bombarding every coastal city on the United Collective coastline, the Republic of New England inflicted untold deaths and casualties upon the Mexican people. With the air force occupied providing tactical support to the various fronts, there was no opposition to the constant New Englander attacks all year. Tens of thousands are believed to be dead or otherwise casualties to the attacks, and the shipyards and docks at Vera Cruz were left in ruins. The ensuing flight of refugees across the United Collectives caused unending panic and the tying up of roads and rails while the government constantly shifted troops in case of another invasion along the coast. The war at sea picked up with the betrayal of Georgia, as they struck systematically against Louisianan submarines and shipping, shattering the Imperial Submersible Arm of the Louisianan Navy. Cuban and New Englander ships successfully close the Florida Straits, despite protest from the Graham government, and netted a large number of the Georgian submarines before they could return to harbor.
Casualty List
United Collectives of North America: 3 Destroyers, 10 Manpower
Georgia: 19 MR Submarines, 16 LR Submarines
Republic of New England: 3 Destroyers, 7 LR Submarines
Empire of Louisiana: 2 Destroyers, 9 Submarines, 7 MR Submarines, 24 LR Submarines
Cuba: 2 Destroyers, 1 Light Cruiser

WAR BEHIND THE LINES. Dallas, occupied Texan Republic. The war on the front lines is not the only place the struggle for control of North America is being fought. The Texan Republic seethes with rebellion against the occupiers from the United Collectives. Strikes against railroads and supply lines by partisans continues unabated as the communist forces fight against the populace. The partisans struck at supplies and reinforcements headed to the front lines throughout the whole year, hoping to sabotage the socialist war effort. Though the socialist war machine continues to advance, it seems that the partisans are having a disturbing effect, evening striking targets in eastern Mexico, across the Rio Grande. (-5 Infantry Brigades for UCNA)
 
European News Report

SCAPA FLOW LEASE ENDS. Glasgow, Scotland. New Englander troops turned over control of the base mistakenly known as Scapa Flow Naval Base on the northern tip of Scotland to Scottish soldiers. The lease deal was signed at the height of the Anglo-Celtic War back in 1912, when the government of the now defunct Celtic Union was desperate fro whatever funds and aid it could receive. The government of the Republic of New England announced that the base there no longer served a purpose as tensions have dramatically declined between that nation and the nations of Europe since the base’s construction began. The lease was therefore terminated by agreement of both sides and the Eight Fleet was withdrawn to port in Boston for redeployment elsewhere. Members of the European community have applauded this act, showing as a hopeful sign of peace and prosperity in Europe.

HUNGARY BRINGS IN NEW LEADERS. Budapest, Hungary. As what happens in many expanding militaries, the bad news of less people working in the factories is accompanied by good news of leadership. The past few years have seen some incredible minds rise to the forefront of the Hungarian military. The Hungarian army capitalized on these bright new leaders, gently retiring older and less fit commanders. The new leaders have revitalized the fighting spirit of the Hungarian people, bringing new pride and ambition into the country’s national psyche. (+1 Army Quality)

DANISH ELECTIONS. Copenhagen, Danish Empire. The rising tensions in Europe displayed this year have been the key issue in Danish elections this year. The Dansk National Arbejderparti managed to retain its control over their reactionary core as well as the larger conservative supporters. Most conservative politicians have thrown their backing behind the Arbejderparti, giving them the majority they need to pass often controversial policies. The party has seen a bit of an internal divide based on foreign policy. Though, some retain a anti-French position, many are coming to believe that a communist victory in North America may prove to be a far greater blow against the empire in the long run. They have called for reinforcements for the Danish Caribbean, and even some limited intervention in the fighting on the mainland. (+1 Stability)

DUTCH ELECTIONS. Amsterdam, Republic of the Netherlands. The long ruling Moderate coalition in the Netherlands collapsed this year as issues within the empire and abroad have shattered the reigning party. The rising tensions in New Holland between Amsterdam and the local Boers were the first of the issues which shattered the party. The Conservative Party called for enforcement of regulations upon both the Boers and the non-Dutch speaking immigrants from North America. The Liberals wished for a more concillatory approach to both sides, and their lack of position hurt them in the elections. The next major issue was the continuing war in the Americas as the socialist armies continued their drives east. The threats placed upon Dutch colonies in the Caribbean have led to Conservative calls to reinforce the garrisons as well as to begin a major naval buildup. They have called for a “wall of steel” to safeguard the Netherlands and its colonies, citing that France and other powers now easily surpass Dutch naval strength. (-2 Stability)

GERMAN ELECTIONS. Munich, German Republic. As tensions rise in Europe, the German people have seemed to have grown increasingly tired of the failure of the government to do anything to ease relations with France. Nonetheless the Konservative Party has once again returned to power, though they have lost their majority in the national congress. The liberals have called for arms reductions agreements with France or any other method which could be made to restore stability in Europe. They have stated that the French have done nothing but promote peace in Europe, with only a few inane radicals riling less desirable elements of the nation. The Konservative government still maintains that military strength is vital to protect German security, but the divided congress speaks for itself. (-3 Stability)

DEATH OF THE TSAR. St. Petersburg, Russian Federation. The Russian Federation mourned the death of Tsar Nicholas II this year, considered by many to be one of then nation’s most important and influential leaders. Though the status of the Russian monarchy declined nearly to the point of figurehead position over the government under his reign, his graceful turning over of powers to the Duma is heralded as a example of great sacrifice for the nation. Granted power upon his father’s death in 1894, Nicholas II had seven children, though the first son died of hemophilia in 1919. His second son has been crowned Tsar Alexander IV at the incredible young age of seventeen as the final request of the departed monarch. Alexander IV, though young, has pledged to keep Russia’s strength intact and to follow the will of the president and Duma in whatever course they should choose to take for the Russian Federation and its people.

ROMANIA ELECTIONS. Bucharest, Romania. A heated election took place this year in Romania, as the Liberal Party made a heated comeback into politics. Even while conservative movements continue to gain strength through the rest of the Balkans, the Liberal Party of Romania has secured a strong new hold on the Romanian government. The election was originally believed to be easily in the control of the Conservative Party, with friendly editors in the nation’s press and Congressional support. Despite their advantages, the Liberal Party won a victory after news broke of embezzlement and corruption within the Conservative Party during their term of office. The country was thrown into disarray upon this news, as people lost faith in their leadership. (-3 Stability)

PORTUGUESE ELECTIONS CANCELLED. Lisbon, Portugal. King Miguel III, with the approval of the standing parliament, has announced the indefinite closing of elections for the foreseeable future. The “disorder and confusion” caused by the electoral process has been stated as an “unwanted nuisance” for the stability and security of the Portuguese nation. The government has stated that the rise of tensions in Europe with the European Alliance of Nations and the Co-Axial Pact no longer allow for electoral political anarchy. The continuing revolt in Honshu has also been considered a major problem which cannot be handled by a democratic regime. For the security of the empire, the elections must be ended. (-1 Stability)

TRANSYLVANIA ELECTIONS. Blaj, Transylvania. This year’s elections in Transylvania proved to be a reaffirmation of the norm. The Conservative Party has once more dominated the national elections for the Congress, securing victory after victory on the platform of economic growth and military reform. The government’s success in encouraging the economy in recent years easily allowed for success in the elections, gaining ultimate support from the population. The Conservative Party has pledged to make the armed forces worthy of being included in the overall Russian Imperial forces. (+1 Stability)

REVOLT IN BULGARIA. Sofia, Bulgaria. The government of Bulgaria has been faced with a major threat this year as republican advocates rose up against the monarchy. Last year’s unpopular granting of more authority to the king and his close associates in the national Duma was stated as the cause of the uprising. The fighting in Sofia was the harshest, though minor battles took place at almost every military base or major city in the country. Civilian casualties were heavy as military discipline broke down in some areas and strikes were made into densely populated zones. The massacres have been highly publicized as a breakdown of the Bulgarian military, which may well have been encouraged by the monarchy. (-3 Infantry Brigades, -15 Manpower)

DANES UNVEIL NEW SUBMARINE. Copenhagen, Danish Empire. The Danish Empire, home of the origins of the militarization of steam-powered craft, have made their first contribution to the naval arts since the mid-nineteenth century. The Haj Undervandsbåd, or the Shark Submarine is a marvel of modern engineering, combining the firepower of a light cruiser with the stealth of a long range submarine. Danish naval enthusiasts claim that this invention will revolutionize naval warfare and provide the answer to the “aircraft question,” a dispute over airpower’s influence on war at sea. Theorists state that the ships of the future will travel under waves rather than above them to prevent detection by aircraft, and that surface travel will soon become an extinct phenomenon. The success of submarines in the ongoing war in the Americas seems to give some credence to this, though detractors still state that submarines will never be able to match the firepower of a modern battleship.

NUIT EN CRISTAL. Paris, France. In a cycle of unprecedented brutality throughout France, angry mobs have assaulted and shattered German, Dutch, and English business interests throughout the French nation. Reports claim that a large number of Germans were lynched or attacked by these mobs, and in the Alsace-Lorraine region, factories or businesses owned by German people were forced at gunpoint across the border. It is said that local authorities did little to hinder the massive civilian based attack against the people from the European Alliance of Nations, and several embassies in Paris were forced to close down as mobs surrounded the buildings. People have spoken out in support of the effort by civilians, calling it a “brave attempt to prevent foreign domination by corrupt and decadent powers.”

RUSSIA LAUNCHES “HIGH WAY” PROJECT. Moscow, Russian Federation. The Russian government has announced the onset of the Federation High Way Program, the creation of a continent spanning, automobile friendly road network stretching from Warsaw to Vladivostok. The new tsar has spoken in support of the project, calling it a modern new network which provide untold numbers of jobs and production throughout the country. The project is slated to take only six years of nonstop effort and government expenses, but it may drag out, depending on other needs of the nation. The first roads were completed this year running from Poland to St. Petersburg, Moscow, and Tsarityn, though over eighty percent of the nation still needs these new developments. The growing popularity of the automobile in the Russian Federation have silenced some critics, but some claim that the vast expense of developing and maintaining these roads across the whole of Russia will only do more harm than good.

African/Middle Eastern News Report

LIBERIA ELECTIONS. Forsythville, Liberia. Elections in Liberia turned into quite a debacle this year as a vicious and divisive campaign was launched between liberals and conservatives. Rising issues such as increased national crime and the poor state of the nation’s infrastructure were the key talking points of the Liberal Party. They promised to the people to revitalize the nation’s economy and strength by the development of large scale internal construction programs, modernizing the nation and bringing it into the twentieth century. The Conservatives denounced these programs, calling them socialist in nature and a major detriment to industrial and commercial development in Liberia. The Conservative Party ultimately won victory in the elections, gaining control of the government once again, but the damage was done. The Liberal candidate stirred up enough emotion and disorder, that the call for reform may not be able to be put back into the political box. (-3 Stability)

REVOLT IN SOUTHERN AFRICA. Zimbabwe, France. French and Danish colonial authorities in what was the Zulu Empire prior to the Great War faced a new threat as a small alliance of tribes rose in rebellion this year. The bulk of the rebellion took place in French territory, though some of the local tribes from the Danish Empire joined in as well. The initial localized garrisons were easily overwhelmed by the rebels, who took them by surprise. Despite the initial success, retaliation came quickly from both colonial overlords. Danish and French troops, working with limited cooperation, interspersed by suspicion towards each other, managed to smash the Zulu uprising with limited casualties. An unfortunate side effect of the uprising was the rise of tensions between France and Denmark’s local forces, who entered into full scale confrontation. The French forces met against the Danes somewhere along the border, and claiming that they were on French soil entered into battle. Two divisions from each side were involved in the fight, and one Danish division was left badly mauled by the superior French army. (-1 Stability in both French Zululand and Danish Zululand)
Casualty List
France: 2 Infantry Brigades
Danish Empire: 8 Infantry Brigades

KURDISH-PERSIAN WAR. Tehran, Persia. Sparked by last year’s invasion of northwestern Persia by Kurdish military forces, a small conflict continues to simmer in the Middle East. Without orders from Tehran and desperate for action against the invading Kurdish forces, the local Persian army launched an offensive against the Kurds, underestimating numbers, but still hoping for victory. They were soon slaughtered by the Kurdish forces, which were well prepared thanks to biplanes sent into the skies for recon purposes. The Kurdish armies have mobilized to the new borders, threatening full invasion of Persia if the standing government does not see reason and concede Kurdish claims on the occupied territory.
Casualty List
Kurdistan: 4 Infantry Brigades
Persia: 7 Infantry Brigades, -1 Stability

Asian/Pacific News Report

KYUSHU REVOLT. Kagoshima, Portugal. Japanese resistance continued against Portuguese authorities this year as a movement led by local samurai gains in strength against the occupiers. Reinforcements continue to arrive on the island, including rumors of Korean involvement as well, though such involvement has been denied by Portuguese colonial leaders. Portugal has pledged to maintain the security of the island within the empire and to preserve national control over one of the larger gems of the country’s imperial possessions. The Portuguese garrison launched several offensives against the samurai bastions in the countryside, but have been met only with disaster after disaster against the rebels. New travel codes and restrictions are being passed over the island as the Portuguese government struggles to maintain order. (-1 Stability in Kyushu, -4 Infantry Brigades)

NEW HOLLAND CLOSES PORTS TO IMMIGRANTS. Sydney, Republic of the Netherlands. Militias led by Boer residents in the Dutch possession of New Holland halted ships heading to port filled with immigrants this year. Part of the Homestead Act, the government has been sponsoring relocation for people from North America and Europe, providing land and support for their landing. The Boer residents who had arrived before have opposed this with much ferocity and have assembled militias to maintain order. The local government has refused to allow further residents any access to their territory, and have mobilized the militia, seizing government arsenals to make their points clear. The government of New Holland has stated: “We shall not be dictated by Amsterdam as to who will settle our land.” The Boers have demanded the repealing of the Homestead Act or have threatened secession from the empire. The immigrants have been forced onto New Zeeland as the crisis continues to escalate between imperial and local authorities. (-5 Stability in New Holland, -2 Stability in New Zeeland, -1 Stability in the republic of the Netherlands proper)

NEW FIGHTING IN AFGHANISTAN. Kabul, Afghanistan. The warlords which make up the hodgepodge nation of Afghanistan have opened upon another round of combat this year, as the various leaders attempt to seize power from the standing “government.” The government has managed to maintain its control over the nation, smashing a variety of warlords for the first time. Rather than standing aside and allowing local disputes to be resolved the existing warlord of Kabul determined that the time had arrived to take an active approach against his enemies. The full might of Kabul was levied against the rest of the nation and after a brutal year’s worth of combat, Afghanistan rests under a centralized government for the first time in many years. Though held together by brute force, many hope that Afghanistan may finally be entering the world as a nation prepared for the twentieth century. (-11 Infantry Brigades, -10 Artillery Brigades, +3 Stability)

RIOTING IN CHINA. Lanzhou, Republic of China. Several cities burst into rioting and extreme civil violence throughout the Republic of China this year. No specific cause has been attributed to the increased unrest and civil disorder, but it seems that there may be underlying elements to the overall nation. The continued high unemployment levels in the cities and the dramatic changes caused by the Reconstruction Program are believed to be key to discontent in the main urban centers of China. The changes promised by the government continue to leave more people disheartened as they fail to materialize instantly, and they find themselves without jobs or even food, starving in the cities when they had relative plenty in the fields. European observers have caused these disruptive riots: “The birthing pains of a modern nation in the Far East.” (-1 Stability, -2 Manpower)

Review of the Arts

Crezth!
Type: Moving Picture
Genre: Horror
Producer: Beria Productions
Running Time: 93 minutes
Summary: The first of its kind, this was the key of two major “monster” films this year, a film focused on a remote Siberian village terrorized by a horrific ice being. Called the abominable crezth by the victims, the citizens of the village are killed one by one. A few haggard survivors flee the scene to a nearby military base, as the beast pursued them. The few who made it to the base discovered the garrison fighting against other crezths, and the beasts are ultimately destroyed. The film terrified audiences across the Russian Federation and has been met with strong support for the emerging horror genre.

Egyptian Summer, Russian Winter
Type: Moving Picture
Genre: Romance
Producer: Beria Productions
Running Time: 119 minutes
Summary: This film was a tear-jerking romance filmed on locations not just in Kinograd sets but in Egypt, around the Pyramids and another notable sites. A typical romance in plot and development, the film was the most notable for the astonishing production values, boasting the largest budget in Kinograd’s short history. Using historical Egyptian sites alone for less than half of the screen time, cost the company overwhelming amounts of money in customs charges and payments to Egyptian government officials. Viewers treated to the film stated that they were highly impressed with what some are calling the “future of moving pictures.”

The Sports Page

EUROPEAN CUP. Marseilles, France. A French team has tasted victory once again in the European Cup this year, despite last year’s influx of Russian teams into the organization. None of the newly formed Russian plethora of football clubs made it into the final game this year, as it became a competition between Germans and French. The Marseilles Football Club faced off against the Munich Football Club, in one of the most violent games in football history. The events of the Nuit en Cristal were fresh in the minds of both teams, which almost sparked a boycott of the games, though the measure failed in the German Republic. Over thirty fouls were recorded through the course of the game, and by the end both teams were short of players as more people were kicked off the field. The final score of the game was three points to two in Marseilles’ favor, sparking a post game “victory riot” in which over fifty Germans and twenty Frenchmen were injured in fighting.

FOOTBALL INTRODUCED TO CHINESE MILITARY. Ghangzhou, Republic of China. The Chinese government has introduced a controversial new element into the army of the Republic, bringing Western football as a teambuilding exercise for the national military. Giving divisional teams to the various armies has promoted competition among the soldiers of China, providing greater team spirit and will to the military. This move has been hit with some controversy from the increasing opposition groups to the KMT. A growing force to maintain some tradition in the government has denounced the further Westernization of China, claiming that the country has been straying too far from its roots in the establishment of the new order.

Political Cartoon from New Orleans, Empire of Louisiana



Diplomatic Pouch

OOC

@Nailix, personally I found “Sand Runner” to be a rather lame name for a heavy tank. Therefore I determined to call it the Pharaoh type tank.

@Those concerned: remember, the more special forces brigades you build, the less effective they are overall. They are the elite of the military and the more you make, the more watered down the overall pool gets.

World Map
 

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From: Danish Empire
To: French Empire


As if we didn't have enough bad news from within your nation, now we hear that you attacked our forces in Zambi when they were actively helping to stop the uprisings in former Zululand. While we understand that our soldiers responded in kind, had you just asked them to leave back to Danish territories there wouldn't have been need for the needless killing of so many soldiers.

Also, we are worried by this Nuit En Cristal that has affected so many people from our allies, and that you didn't even move to prevent this from happening. We fear that you are turning into a nation without consideration for the others, no matter who or what they are. Please, explain yourself for your actions.
 
OOC: Great update. The tide continues its rise.

IC: To: Louisiana
From: The UCNA


Your armies stand defeated and weakened. If Louisianan resistance is ended now it will be remembered and looked kindly upon in the future.

To: The Algonquin, Virginia
From: The UCNA


Your armies are far from home and their destruction is imminent any atrocities committed against good hard working Lakotan workers will be remembered.

To: New England
From: The UCNA


New England's crimes against the UCNA will never be forgotten. The needless slaughter of thousands of Mexican civilians will be remembered for all time and will only further strengthen our cause.
 
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