Capto Iugulum
- Thread starter EQandcivfanatic
- Start date
I'm sorry, should have said. The time for orders has long passed.
Demetrios was shocked. He had been working as a dockworker in Constantinople for the past ten years. He always showed up early, he never complained, and he worked hard. He had worked today like he had worked every day, and finally his bosses had taken a notice to him.
Earlier in the day he was called into the dock manager's office. He did not know what he had done to be called in, but, the diligent worker that he was, he made haste to meet with the boss. He was unsure if he was in trouble, he did not remember doing anything against the rules, or even just slacking off on his duties. He knew business was doing well, it was unlikely he was about to get the cut. Still, he was nervous as he knocked on the manager's door. His palms were sweaty, his mouth was dry, and his heart was thudding loudly in his chest.
"Come in." came the reply to his knock. Demetrios slowly pushed the door open. The office was small. There was a ceiling fan which spun lazily around in circles. Their was a heavy wooden desk, behind which sat the middle-aged dock manager. In front of the desk was an uncomfortable looking wooden chair, and behind the desk and the manager was a small window, with a view of the city.
"Sir, I am Demetrios Simonides, you requested me?" Demetrios asked timidly, standing in the doorway, his eyes fixed on his own shoes.
"Ah, yes, Simonides," the manager said, pushing his chair back form the desk and leaning it backwards, "Please, wont you take a seat?" he motioned to the chair in front of him.
Demetrios did as he was told, suddenly feeling much more at ease. He lifted his gaze up to the manager and saw the man lazily smiling up at him. This helped him to feel even more comfortable, but he couldn't help shaking the feeling that something was not quite right. He strode across the room, pulled the chair back, and sat in it.
The manager leaned in forward, all four legs of his chair touching the ground again. "I suspect you remember a Foreman Metaxas, am I right?" he asked, pulling a pipe out of an upper drawer in his desk, and began stuffing it with tobacco.
Demetrios nodded. He knew the foreman, up until a week or so before, he had been Demetrios' very own foreman. However, he had slipped on the dock, fell in the water, and promptly drowned. It had all been a rather strange and tragic day. Since then, another foreman had been pulling double shifts, to cover his own, and Metaxas'.
"Good," the manager said, sticking the pipe in his mouth and lighting it with a match. He sucked on it, holding the smoke in his mouth for a moment, before letting it seep out. "Because it has been brought to my attention that we need a replacement for him. It just so happens that your name has come up quite a few times to be our new foreman." he stuck the pipe back into his mouth, eyes fixed on Demetrios, ready to see his reaction.
Demetrios did not know what to say. He merely sat and stared at the manager, his mouth falling open in surprise. He had always dreamed of gaining a better job, but never in his life believed he would ever achieve anything more than a simple dockworker, just like the rest of his family. He stared at the manager in a stupor for minutes, before, happy with the man's reaction, and tired of waiting, the manager stood up and extended his hand. "Congratulations, Foreman Simonides."
The new foreman feebly got to his feet. He was still in shock when he reached out and took his boss' hand and shook it. He was also still in shock when the window behind the manager burst inwards and the strongest gust of wind blew into the room. After that, Demetrios was no longer in shock. Demetrios would never be in shock, ever again. Demetrios never saw or heard what killed him.
Earlier in the day he was called into the dock manager's office. He did not know what he had done to be called in, but, the diligent worker that he was, he made haste to meet with the boss. He was unsure if he was in trouble, he did not remember doing anything against the rules, or even just slacking off on his duties. He knew business was doing well, it was unlikely he was about to get the cut. Still, he was nervous as he knocked on the manager's door. His palms were sweaty, his mouth was dry, and his heart was thudding loudly in his chest.
"Come in." came the reply to his knock. Demetrios slowly pushed the door open. The office was small. There was a ceiling fan which spun lazily around in circles. Their was a heavy wooden desk, behind which sat the middle-aged dock manager. In front of the desk was an uncomfortable looking wooden chair, and behind the desk and the manager was a small window, with a view of the city.
"Sir, I am Demetrios Simonides, you requested me?" Demetrios asked timidly, standing in the doorway, his eyes fixed on his own shoes.
"Ah, yes, Simonides," the manager said, pushing his chair back form the desk and leaning it backwards, "Please, wont you take a seat?" he motioned to the chair in front of him.
Demetrios did as he was told, suddenly feeling much more at ease. He lifted his gaze up to the manager and saw the man lazily smiling up at him. This helped him to feel even more comfortable, but he couldn't help shaking the feeling that something was not quite right. He strode across the room, pulled the chair back, and sat in it.
The manager leaned in forward, all four legs of his chair touching the ground again. "I suspect you remember a Foreman Metaxas, am I right?" he asked, pulling a pipe out of an upper drawer in his desk, and began stuffing it with tobacco.
Demetrios nodded. He knew the foreman, up until a week or so before, he had been Demetrios' very own foreman. However, he had slipped on the dock, fell in the water, and promptly drowned. It had all been a rather strange and tragic day. Since then, another foreman had been pulling double shifts, to cover his own, and Metaxas'.
"Good," the manager said, sticking the pipe in his mouth and lighting it with a match. He sucked on it, holding the smoke in his mouth for a moment, before letting it seep out. "Because it has been brought to my attention that we need a replacement for him. It just so happens that your name has come up quite a few times to be our new foreman." he stuck the pipe back into his mouth, eyes fixed on Demetrios, ready to see his reaction.
Demetrios did not know what to say. He merely sat and stared at the manager, his mouth falling open in surprise. He had always dreamed of gaining a better job, but never in his life believed he would ever achieve anything more than a simple dockworker, just like the rest of his family. He stared at the manager in a stupor for minutes, before, happy with the man's reaction, and tired of waiting, the manager stood up and extended his hand. "Congratulations, Foreman Simonides."
The new foreman feebly got to his feet. He was still in shock when he reached out and took his boss' hand and shook it. He was also still in shock when the window behind the manager burst inwards and the strongest gust of wind blew into the room. After that, Demetrios was no longer in shock. Demetrios would never be in shock, ever again. Demetrios never saw or heard what killed him.
Global News Report
CONSTANTINOPLE OBLITERATED BY MYSTERY EXPLOSION. Athens, Roman Empire. The ancient city of Constantinople has ceased to exist in any meaningful form after a mysterious explosion utterly destroyed the urban center. The first report was of a column of blue light through the air on September 14, which could be seen from across the Aegean Sea. Then a massive explosion was seen over the heart of Constantinople, and shockwaves were felt as far away as London and Stockholm. According to witnesses, the explosion was incredibly massive, and a few survivors from the northwestern outskirts of the city say that you could see across to the seas unhindered, as the old buildings were leveled. A secondary result was a series of large waves across the Black and Aegean Seas, flooding a number of small towns, but causing the most damage in Sevastopol to the north, capsizing even a few small naval warships. The death toll in Constantinople is uncertain, but believed to add up to nearly two million dead from the initial explosion itself, the greatest natural disaster in history. The ensuing dead from the chaos and flooding added to the toll in several countries including the Roman Empire, Russia, and Hungary. The Second Imperator's Games were being held during the explosion, and the result was the utter destruction of the Roman Empire's official government. The highest ranking military official, General Panagiotis Danglis has assumed direct authority for the duration of the emergency. Martial law has been declared throughout the country, as major instability and confusion is invoked across the nation by this unprecedented and massive natural disaster. Economically, disaster looms as the Bosporus Straits are closed to shipping due to the wreckage. Below, an artist's rendering of the event based on the descriptions of survivors
Casualty Lists
Hungary: 3 Manpower
Roman Empire: 210 Manpower, 4 Manpower per turn, 20 Infantry Brigades, 2 Cavalry Brigades, 5 Artillery Brigades, 6 Early Destroyers, 2 Romanos-class Destroyers, 3 Early Light Cruisers, 2 Early Heavy Cruisers, 2 Christine-class Battleships (-4 Stability)
Russia: 10 Manpower, 4 Early Destroyers, 1 Early Light Cruiser
LOTUS PACT ESTABLISHED. Jefferson, United States of America. The American government under President Wareing has established with Japan and the Arabian Empire a new economic and technological agreement. The so-called Lotus Pact also includes the smaller nation of Venezuela, and all four nations have pledged to cooperate in the technological race taking place among world's major power blocs. The new pact has also included the cooperation along economic lines, creating new markets and industries for all of the major states involved. The timely opening of the Panama Canal has further spurred this economic agreement between the members of the Lotus Pact. The arrangement has been publically stated not to be one of a military nature, not even a defensive one, focused on economics and technological advancement.
INTERNATIONAL OFFICE OF HEALTH ESTABLISHED. Brussels, Flanders. The government of Flanders has announced the establishment of the new International Office of Health in response to the ongoing cases of the Brazilian Flu, which has wrecked havoc across the Americas and Europe. The new organization has received widespread support from doctors across the world, though it has not received any significant political support. The International Office of Health has been created to monitor and track the spread of infectious disease, with the hopes of containing any major outbreaks and widespread death. The Flemish government has offered some funds for its creation, but its power is limited until greater nations support the organization.
News from Europe
GENOAN UNIVERSITY CONTINUES NATIONALIST PUBLISHING. Genoa, Genoa. The Italian National Press has continued to publish their newsletters from the University of Genoa, despite rising tensions between Genoa and Milan throughout the year. International pressure ultimately forced Milan to back down, allowing the free press in Genoa to continue unhindered. The Genoan intellectuals heavily support a united Italian nation and have become highly outspoken in their endeavor. The government has yet to take any action against the Italian National Press, as they continue to print their calls for a liberated and united Italian state. The Papacy has begun issuing its own calls for the immediate closure of the Press, threatening excommunication for all involved, and perhaps even for King Emmanuelle himself if action is not taken.
UNREST ESCALATES IN EASTERN HUNGARY. Budapest, Hungary. The Hungarian government has faced rising problems throughout the Romanian region as the local population has erupted into a new series of violence. This has included several small-scale revolts and brutal massacres of Hungarian garrisons in the area. The tensions have been made worse with the destabilization of Roman Bulgaria to the south, as the Constantinople Disaster threatens to throw the Roman Empire into chaos. The Hungarians have been doing their best to restore civilian control throughout the nation, but the fighting continues to become more and more brutal throughout Romania. The Romanians have continued to struggle valiantly against what they consider to be the Hungarian occupiers, as well as supporting radical ideologies such as proletarism. Regardless, it seem the situation has worsened as Romanian militias continue to grow in strength. (-6 Infantry Brigades, -2 Cavalry Brigades, -9 Manpower)
OCCITANIANS ATTACK SPANISH BUSINESS. Toulouse, Occitania. Over the course of this year, natural dissent and unrest has actually turned away from the government of King Louis III. Instead, the vast quantities of resentment available to the average Occitanian working man have been turned towards the Empire of Spain. The Spanish have been blamed for the rough conditions of labor, as well as Occitania's subservient position on the global stage. The attitude of Spanish resentment has grown in every element of Occitanian society, particularly with the rise of what appears to be cooperation between Spain, and Occitania's traditional enemy of the Franco-Burgundian Confederation. On a more local level, this has led to several attacks upon Spanish businessmen, but with no deaths. The most spectacular event of resistance against Spanish influence was the bombing of a Spanish train, which destroyed countless goods being shipped from Spain to the Confederation. Losses for Spanish business are said to be incredibly high, even as Occitanian people begin boycotting Spanish goods.
RAILROAD STRIKE IN SARDINIA. Cagliari, Sardinia. The illegal Sardinian Railway Workers' Union has led a strike across the island nation, shutting down the national railway system. The strike has called for immediate government reform and change, ending the absolute rule of the monarch. The strike has been aided by a number of other factories and illegal unions, as cries continue to emerge for immediate change. They have demanded free elections and the complete reduction of the monarch's absolute power. Violence has been reported between the strikers and company thugs, as the various companies attempt to force people back to work. The efforts have so far proven fruitless, as the government has been incapable of shutting down the strike. The unionists have continued to call for the monarchy to negotiate, and until they do, it seems as though the devastating strikes will continue across the Sardinian island. (-1 Stability)
CIVIL REVOLTS IN TUSCANY. Florence, Tuscany. The Tuscan government faced another series of revolts and riots across the nation this year, as it seems the monarchy is edging closer to civil war or collapse. The people have continued to resent the ever-present hand of the monarchy in their day to day affairs, and the brutality of the secret police. A plethora of different interests groups including both Italian nationalists and proletarists, have begun struggling to gain power, fighting each other as much as the government. The result has been chaotic disruption of life, as groups are striking and counter-striking as the monarchy struggle to preserve any resemblance of order in Tuscany. Martial law has been completely declared, and organization of the stoppage of work declared a punishable offense by death should protests and unions be involved. There has been unending fighting and unrest throughout the city streets and nearby nations are beginning to feel the effects. Unrest has spilled over into the Papal States, Milan, and Genoa. Fears exist of a much larger problem erupting, and the Papacy has issued a warning to King Ferdinand to get his people under control or to face a major intervention. (-1 Stability, -1 Infantry Brigade)
DUTCH ELECTIONS. Amsterdam, Netherlands. After several years of inglorious results and foreign policies for the Dutch republic, this year's elections proved to be heavily disputed among the two main political parties. What was a sure-fire dominance of Dutch politics only four years ago has shifted dangerously away from the liberal People's Party for Freedom and Democracy. The reigning party was humiliated with its lackluster response to the Reusatchig Crisis and the ensuing weakness in regards to German nationalism and the antagonism of Britain and Brandenburg. The result has been a major shift to the conservatives in all elements of Dutch politics. The conservatives have pledged to create stability and security for the Dutch people, allowing them to be defended against a surging Brandenburg in Europe and the British Royal Navy around the world. They easily swept the elections this year with the Party for Freedom, reversing a nearly twenty year period of dominance by the liberals. (+1 Stability)
PORTUGUESE ELECTIONS. Lisbon, Portugal. Elections in Portugal were heavily disputed this year, as it seems the Centrist Party faced a major split from the conservative portion of the party. The moderate Centrists have been determined to stay the course, with a neutral and prosperous Portugal. Unfortunately the conservatives have begun calling for closer ties with Britain as the world seems to polarize into two great spheres. The threat of the outbreak of a major global war has led to most of these people calling for Portugal to side with Britain and the growing strength of the Krakow Pact. The Centrists have resisted this to the greatest of their ability, but the elections were hard fought. The result was no majority in Portugal's parliament, as the liberals and Centrists were forced to unite to form a coalition against the conservatives. Few are happy with this arrangement and it seems that the moderation of the Centrist Party has been neutralized by the disorder of the elections, despite their final victory. (-1 Stability)
FLANDERS COMPLETES CLEANUP. Brussels, Flanders. The central government of Flanders completed their efforts to clean up the streets and byways of the Flemish nation this year. The effort was begun in order to improve the sanitation and the appearance of the cities of Flanders. The Flemish people now live in easily the most clean and orderly nation in Europe, purifying the streets of the items of disrepair. The effort also included some refurbishment of mass transportation in the larger cities, providing newer street trolleys for transportation around the larger cities. The government has pledged that the new cleanliness will provide better living standards for the people of Flanders, keeping them safe from the spread of disease.
CONFEDERATION SENDS TROOPS TO DENMARK, SPARKING RIOTS. Bremen, Denmark. The Franco-Burgundian Confederation deployed a large number of soldiers to the border regions of Denmark and Brandenburg this year. This has been stated to be in response to the rising threats of instability created by the words and actions of the government of Brandenburg. Regardless, the Confederation's deployment of over three hundred thousand soldiers has outraged the populations of the border region and Denmark. The Danish opposition has called the move not much more than an invasion, and has widely denounced it. The German population have found themselves the most exploited by the predominantly French forces, creating a divide and tensions between the previously peaceful Danes and Germans in Denmark. A riot was spark when Confederate forces arrived in Bremen, further destabilizing the whole region. Brandenburg's government has denounced the move as the first step in organized aggression against them. Below, a French recruitment poster for joining the expeditionary forces in Denmark or China. (-1 Stability)
SPAIN FORCES NEAPOLITAN REPARATIONS. Naples, Naples. The result of last year's disastrous Spanish invasion of Sicily and the influx of Neapolitan support nearly led to yet another major crisis. Spain blamed the king of Naples for the support of the Sicilian rebel cause, allowing Spanish authority on the island to collapse. They demanded immediate response and reparation for the Spanish military dead, as well for the countless losses in business caused by the disruption. The Neapolitans were blamed for the misuse of funds from the League of the Three Emperors, and the reparations were agreed upon. The Neapolitans paid off a portion of the debt this year, partially thanks to a loan provided by the neutral banks of Flanders. The hopes are that the debt will be repaid in the next few years, while Naples becomes the darling of the Italian nationalist movement for their bold stand against the Spanish. (+1 Stability)
ITALIAN ALLIANCE ESTABLISHED. Palermo, Sicily. The recent threats and demands made by Spain have led to a new political development on the Italian Peninsula. King Ferdinand II of Naples has joined hands in alliance with King Giovanni II of Milan, establishing a political and military alliance between the two nations. The government of Sicily has also tenuously agreed to the pact, establishing a current membership in the alliance. This allegiance of Sicily seems awkward though, as the new government struggles to find its appropriate structure and place in Italian politics. Pope Leo XIV has expressed concern about the alliance, feeling that it threatens his position in Italy, but has not made more than a token protest, acknowledging that both monarchs have both been traditional defenders of the status quo on the peninsula.
BERLIN TELEGRAPH RELEASED[/b ]. Berlin, Brandenburg. A official telegraph was released this year, confirmed to have been created by the head of ambassadors and the foreign ministry in Stockholm. The telegraph states that Scandinavia "would sooner burn down the cities of Pomerania and slaughter its citizens" rather than let it join a German nation. The sheer callousness of the statement has outraged intellectuals across Europe, particularly in the republics and other states, and has provided a new face to the enemy of German nationalism. The result has been sheer outrage in the German nations for the blatant disrespect of mankind that such remarks suggest. German nationalism has only gained a greater boon, as they rally behind their proponents in Brandenburg and Pomerania. (-1 Stability in Pomerania)
BRANDENBURG OPENS UNIVERSITIES TO ALL GERMANS. Hannover, Brandenburg. Brandenburg has offered scholarships, money, and education to any German speaking people of Europe. This has included residents of the Franco-Burgundian Confederation, Denmark, Austria, Poland, and Pomerania. The offers state that anyone who speaks German as a primary language can receive education or scholarships in universities in Brandenburg. This has attracted many budding German intellectuals and scientists from Brandenburg's neighbors, often seeking a less hostile working environment. The program has so far shown itself to be a major success, while building the idea that Brandenburg is the only real refuge and rallying point for the German people.
STRIKES SHUT DOWN PORTS IN POMERANIA. Stettin, Pomerania. Late in the year, after the widespread release and proliferation of the Berlin Telegraph, a major strike was called in the nation of Pomerania. The German Brotherhood successfully gained the support of the Shipworkers' Union of Pomerania, and have managed to shut down shipping into and out of the nation of Pomerania. The Pomeranian strikers have demanded the abdication of the king and the denouncement of the hated treaty with Scandinavia. As commerce comes to a screeching halt, the Pomeranian government has so far refused to send in the army, due to fears that they may join the strikers, making the situation even worse. The strike has continued, closing the region to any commerce, besides overland from Poland and Brandenburg. (-1 Stability)
GENOA-MILAN CRISIS SUBSIDES. Genoa, Genoa. The Genoese called the bluff of King Giovanni II this year as the Genoan government refused to turn over the offenders from the Italian National Press. The result was several tense months as various other powers appealed to Milan to prevent the outbreak of war on the Italian Peninsula once more. Nations such as Austria, the Franco-Burgundian Confederation, and Spain all applied political pressure onto Milan to prevent such a move. These actions have given new life to the Italian nationalist movement as it highly undermines the existing non-nationalist regimes of Italy. The result has been a proliferation of the press to an ever greater degree across Austria, Milan, Tuscany, and the Papal States. (-1 Stability to the aforementioned four nations)
SICILIANS VOTE TO JOIN NAPLES. Palermo, Sicily. In a move surprising many political observers, the Sicilian people went to the polls this year to determine the fate of the island after their successful fight for independence from Spain. Though a number of proposals were put forward for the establishment of an independent monarchy or a full republic, a surprising faction won out. Led by Italian nationalists, their cause was supported by the apparent weakness of the anti-nationalists over the Genoa-Milan crisis, and they have outright supported the Neapolitan government. Concerns by the leftists have led to some negotiations remaining, but it seems that the overwhelming amount of the Sicilian people have decided to join the nation which seems to now be leading the charge for Italian unity.
News from the Americas
NATIONALISTS SPARK RIOTING IN HAVANA. Havana, Spain. A resurgence has been reported in Cuban nationalism, as a major riot broke out in Havana this year, spurred by agitators against Spanish rule. The riots were sparked with the arrest of a Cuban spokesperson, a politician well known for his outspoken views on a fully independent Cuba. As a highly popular individual, his arrest became well publicized and many turned out to protest the move. The local police refused to undertake the arrest, forcing the military to be involved. The army arrested the politician, but stones thrown ultimately led to soldiers firing upon the crowd. The politician was killed in the gunfire, further enflaming the passions of the crowd. The soldiers were mobbed, and hung by the angry populace, and the riots soon escalated. Military installations in Havana were prime targets and outposts were soon overrun as the fighting intensified. The Spanish army responded with the deployment of more soldiers, but the result was the creation of a miniature war, as the Cubans erected barricades and used the weapons of several arsenals to fire back. The riots have been suppressed, but tensions remain, as it seems to have given a new spark to Cuban nationalism. (-1 Infantry Brigade, -1 Stability)
CHILEANS PROTEST MILITARY GOVERNMENT. Santiago, Chile. A number of Chileans turned out in Santiago to call for the removal of the military government of General Pedro Mendez this year, and to the surprise of many the protest was ignored by the standing government. Military officials were present outside of the palace, but the protestors did not grow violent or venture too far out of line. The calls were ignored, and the general failed to address the crowd as a whole, awaiting their departure from the premises. The crowd eventually dispersed peacefully after a few hours, as only several determined young protestors remained in the evening. The plaza was empty by the morning as the city of Santiago returned to its regular life. The Chileans have continued to struggle under the military government, but for the time it seems that they continue to look on with benevolent apathy.
RIOTS IN QUITO. Quito, Ecuador. The government of Felix Martinez faced disorder and confusion this year as a major challenge erupted in the form of rioting. A group of protestors, calling for the end of the Martinez regime and the restoration of democracy were fired upon by the army, resulting in several dozen injuries and deaths. The attacks were seen as the spark which lit the bonfire of rioting throughout the city of Quito, causing extensive damage and even more casualties among the civilian population. The local economy was also temporarily disrupted, as the city struggled to put itself back together after the unrest of the fighting. The Ecuadorian government has appealed for calm, and temporarily declared martial law in Quito, though that was lifted after only a few weeks and stability was restored.
URUGUAYAN ELECTIONS. Montevideo, Uruguay. The Uruguayan government has gone through its constitutional mandated elections this year, as the Party of Order faced a challenge from the conservatives. The conservatives have called for more independent growth and ties, establishing Uruguay as a more neutral and economically prosperous state. They have called for a rejection of any military or defensive ties to Brazil or Argentina, hoping for a chance to expand Uruguay's global trade presence among a number of powers or blocs. The liberals of the Party of Order hope to maintain the status quo, preserving the republic and extending the already existing ties with the rest of South America. Ultimately, the Party of Order emerged victorious, and continues to possess a comfortable majority in the government of Uruguay.
VENEZUELA ELECTIONS. Caracas, Venezuela. The Venezuelan nation held its scheduled elections this year, and they proved to be a hotly fought contest between the ruling National Liberal Party and the conservative Democratic Party. The elections revolved around the economic and political situation in South American and the Caribbean. The new Lotus Pact with the United States and Japan has been the focus of this debate, as the conservatives of Venezuela are less than enthusiastic. The agreement has placed too much animosity with Venezuela's neighbors in Colombia and Brazil, particularly as the civil war to the west escalates. The result was a highly debated affair as the National Liberal Party faced severe criticism of its policies. The liberals nonetheless managed to triumph securing their control over the Venezuelan presidency, though in a highly divided nation. (-1 Stability)
VINLAND ELECTIONS. New Stockholm, Vinland. Vinland's elections resulted in a political collapse this year as the moderate Party of Order fell apart, ending the reign of the party. Divisive issues involving the nation have emerged, as disputes emerged involving the exploitation of the west and immigration policies. The Social Democratic Party has begun calling for social reform and even more attraction of migrants from Europe and elsewhere. They have also been less than pleased with even the de jure ties with the Scandinavians, calling for further isolation from the "bad politics" of the home land. The conservatives have been vehemently against these policies, hoping to close the borders to disruptive influences from Europe, especially Stockholm. The debates have become vicious and polarizing, leading to a divided population and an angry minority in congress. The Social Democratic Party emerged ultimately triumphant, though the instability caused by the virulent elections may have made the prize less valuable. (-1 Stability)
PANAMA CANAL COMPLETED. Panama City, United States of America. After construction efforts have been underway since 1898, the American authority in Panama has at last announced the completion of the Panama Canal. This canal has already vastly spurred the American economy, and with the taxes and tariffs available for the canal zone, the vast international demand for such a waterway offers even greater profits for American business. President Wareing rode the first vessel to travel through the canal, an American warship as a display for the nearby Brazilian and British fleets. The Americans have showcased this accomplishment as a demonstration of their strength and abilities. The hope is that the Panama Canal will be the center of a newly booming economic system and arrangement. Below photograph is of the first merchant ship to pass through the Panama Canal.
ARGENTINA COMPLETES EDUCATION EXPANSIONS. Buenos Aires, Argentina. This year saw the completion of new major education based projects in Argentina, as the infrastructure and construction was completed. First among these were the creation of several new expansive new vocational labor educational universities offering advanced training education for mechanics and farmers. The hope is to improve the efficiency and skills of these workers, establishing a stronger economic intellectual base for the Argentine people. The second portion of these creations is the establishment of a new system of military academies to give the Argentine officer corps an independent system of training and recruiting for officers in the Argentine military. The completion of this project has eliminated their reliance upon academies in the United Kingdom and Brazil, bolstering the future potential of the Argentine military.
BRITAIN GIVES NEW BATTLESHIP TO BRAZIL. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In a gesture further cementing the friendship between Brazil and Britain, the HMS Excalibur has been granted as a Christmas gift to the Brazilian navy. The new Olympus-class warship is now the most fearsome vessel in any South American fleet, showing the way to a dawn for the Brazilian navy. The tie has been a further symbol of the alliance between Britain and Brazil, demonstrating their friendship and unity in political and military affairs. The move has also been seen as an effort to strengthen the defenses of the Americas against potential threats created by Spain or the Triple Alliance.
BRITISH AND BRAZILIAN FLEETS PROTECT COLOMBIA. Buenaventura, Colombia. As the civil war continues in Colombia, both factions in the struggle have appealed for the support or aid of their old allies in Britain and Brazil. Due to a lack of information and indecision among the powers, it was determined that outright support would be impractical at the time for either faction. The response has instead been a move to secure the country from attacks by the United States or another foreign power. Both of the would-be presidents of Colombia have offered the guaranteed usage of the nation's ports for this effort, pledging security for the harbors. The effort has proven successful, acting not as a blockade, but simply as a way to protect the coastlines of the beleaguered nation.
BRAZIL CONSTRUCTS NEW EXPERIMENTAL RADIO TOWER. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Brazilians have sponsored the construction of a new experimental radio facility in the hills outside of the capital city of Rio de Janeiro. The new facility is to act as a testing ground for the rising technology of radio, as well as some experimental voice news broadcasts into the larger city. Only a few people possess voice receiving radio, but it is viewed as an important step after the disaster of the Reusachtig tragedy off the coast of Guyana. The hopes remain that advances in this technology could help reduce the scale of future naval disasters, as well as enhance the capabilities of Brazilian's forces on global battlefields and front lines.
COLOMBIAN CIVIL WAR. Bogota, Colombia. Fighting continued in Colombia this year, as the nation has been heavily fought over by the conservative and liberal factions. The main conservative offensive has been in the north, where they have move their forces to secure a port and to drive the liberals off the Atlantic coast. The effort proved bloodier than expected as the vastly outnumbered liberal troops still managed to inflict a heavier toll, driving them to a stop near the border of American controlled Panama. The liberals, badly outnumbered, threw the bulk of their force against the conservatives at the capital of Bogota. The liberals managed to secure the bridge across the Bogota River and cross over into the capital, but there, their luck began to dry up. Heavily city fighting took place as both sides fought over the capital, building by building. The fighting was brutal, and ultimately the conservatives managed to push back across the river. This is a major defeat for the liberal cause, leaving them greatly weakened and in a highly vulnerable position. Unfortunately, the battle taxed the conservatives as well, leaving them incapable of taking the initiative of their victory this year, even despite the outpouring of support from neighboring Ecuador.
Casualty Lists
Colombia (Conservative): 3 Conscript Brigades, 6 Infantry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades
Colombia (Liberal): 4 Conscript Brigades, 4 Infantry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades
MONTEVIDEO COMPLETES ELEVATED RAIL SYSTEM. Montevideo, Uruguay. The city government of Montevideo was pleased to announce this year the completion of a elevated railway system, to provide mass transportation around Uruguay's capital. The system has been linked to the nation's preexisting railroad network as well as the railroads connecting to Brazil and Argentina. This will vastly improve the means of transportation to Montevideo, both in terms of goods as well as the transportation of people around the city. The tracks operate above the city streets, providing a rapid manner to transport oneself around the urban developed region of Montevideo, safe from crime and the worries of the ground.
TUNISIANS HAVE SUCCESS IN SARDINIAN STRUGGLE. Tunis, Sardinia. Despite the deployment of a few more brigades to the Sardinian garrison in Tunisia, the Sardinians have struggled to gain any successes against the local guerillas. The result has actually been the first true battles between the Tunisians and the Sardinian army, as Sardinian cavalry clashes with several rebel camps. The Sardinians were badly defeated, and several regiments were virtually annihilated when penned in between several Tunisian machine guns. The fighting has been vicious, and the Tunisians seem to have emerged victorious. The Sardinians have yet to locate any more significant Tunisian outposts or sympathizers, as they have proven adept at establishing their influence throughout both the countryside and main city. These victories have given more strength to the Tunisian cause as they fight to oust Sardinian control of their country and restore their independence as a nation. (-1 Cavalry Brigade, -1 Stability)
MUSLIMS THREATEN STRIKE IN ALGERIA. Algiers, Spain. A Islamic cleric has begun rallying a number of supporters to his cause in Algeria against Spanish rule. He has garnered substantial support from an inherent hatred of Spanish colonial rule, as well as the traditional Catholic preference throughout the region. The Muslims have flocked to his caused, as they consist of the majority of the working classes of Algiers and most of the region's port towns. The result has been a threat of a colonial-wide strike to end shipping and transportation until Spain vacates the region and returns rule to the Islamic population. Needless to say, this has put the entire area on edge, as the Catholic and Muslim populations begin to square off. Violence has been reported between the two groups, and many fear it could escalate into even greater bloodshed or unrest. (-1 Stability)
BRITISH CENTRAL AFRICA FACES COLONIAL UNREST. Freetown, United Kingdom of Great Britain. The British colony of Gabon has begun to facing growing disorderly conduct from the local native population. The natives have begun resisting British colonial rule as the garrisons are reinforced against a series of minor raids. The white residents have begun calling for British intervention and aid as the nuisance raids finally grew deadly late in the year. A family farmstead of white citizens in the eastern regions of the colony were found slaughtered, apparently by a native raid. Local militias have begun forming, and there is fear of a much larger war on the horizon as rumors of unity among the tribes have begun to emerge. (-1 Stability)
STOCKHOLM CONFERENCE FAILS AS GEORGIAN VIOLENCE CONTINUES. Tiflis, Georgia. The great powers of the League of the Three Emperors brought themselves together this year in Stockholm to discuss the rising tensions in Georgia. Unfortunately the conference proved to be of insignificant importance as nothing of any merit was agreed upon by any parties. The result has been no agreement of any sort as Georgia remains in the Krakow Pact with Hungary, Britain, and Poland. The violence in Georgia further continued this year as the Russian settlers and Georgians continued to strike at each other, and the Georgian army has begun making preparations for the expulsion of all Russians from their soil. The Georgians have announced that due to the hostile actions of the Russian residents, they will be deported from Georgia back to Russia. The army has been mobilized to begin this effort, hoping to succeed and restore some stability to their nation.
KURDISH INTELLECTUAL CALLS FOR DEMOCRATIC STATE. Cizre, Kurdistan. After last year's revolution which led to an end to the rule of Turkish sultans over the Kurdish people, there has been some debate over the proclamation of the new King Mahmud as leader of the Kurds. Among the intellectuals of the small nation, a number of people have declared that perhaps the opportunity should be seized to establish a republic. This has been met with immense hostility from the monarchy and the military, and the writer responsible for arousing this sentiment has been arrested and imprisoned in Cizre's dungeons. The monarchy has proclaimed that the rule of the Kurdish people will be lead by the kings of the Kurds, and by no other, as proclaimed by Allah. They have vowed to complete the liberation of the Kurdish people, including those remaining the Roman Empire, Persia, and Turkey.
OLD SULTAN ATTEMPTS COUP IN TURKEY. Konya, Turkey. Sponsored by the Roman Empire, particularly with funds and even volunteers hired from among the Roman population. The Turkish sultan has pledged to regain his throne, and invaded Turkey against the local population. The attempting usurping forces were engaged in battle by a much larger Turkish army awaiting at the coastal city of Manavgat. The sultan's army was easily beaten by the defensive forces and the sultan was taken prisoner. With the fight concluded and the most significant Roman puppet in Turkey in chains, an execution was prepared. To the celebration of the people of Turkey, the former Sultan Osman II was executed publically, totally ending the support for his old regime. The army has also gained valuable experience, mobilized as chaos consumes the Roman Empire to the north. (-3 Infantry Brigades, +1 Stability)
SOCIETY FOR FILIPINO FREEDOM ESTABLISHED. Manila, Spain. This year saw the establishment of the Society of Filipino Freedom in Manila, as an enlightened organization focused upon creating a fully independent state out of the Spanish colony. The local intellectuals and leaders have called for the end of any version of Spanish rule over the Philippines, creating an internationally recognized free nation out of the islands. The current thoughts have been on using the Viceroyalty political system as a base to force the islands' independence through the existing setup of the Imperial Senate. They have called for the will of the people to elect their members to bring about a major change in the government of the islands. The hopes are that violence can be avoided, allowing for the Philippines to become independent while still retaining a fairly amicable relationship with Spain itself.
SCANDINAVIA OFFERS INDUSTRIAL SUBSIDIES. Stockholm, Scandinavia. The new regime of the Industry Party in Scandinavia has begun shifting its platform, hoping to provide greater support to the production centers of the nation. They have offered subsidies to encourage local industry and the exploitation of Scandinavia's own resources for its own industrial platform. This has included the expansion of the steel and railroad production industries, as well as providing for emerging production such as in automotive technology and other markets. The subsidies have been strictly focused to Scandinavian business, but have proven fairly successful, offering at least the appearance of stabilization, despite the problems in the Roman Empire, one of Scandinavia's largest trading partners.
AUSTRIA BUILDS FAILING ARMS FACTORIES. Vienna, Austria. The Austrian government has sponsored the creation of new arms and munitions factories in order to get more people to work across the nation. However, the effort has mostly failed as the number of factories construction vastly outweigh the amount of resources available, or the amount of would-be buyers. Therefore, after only a few weeks of production, most of the factories have closed. The effort has been seen as a miserable economic failure, wasting most of Austria's limited funds and manpower. The monarchy has been harshly criticized for the strain the program put upon the nation's economy, as most of the supplies actually produce now sit in unused stockpiles gathering rust and dust.
ECONOMIC FLUCTUATION REPORT. Madrid, Spain. Total Economic Change: -75 EP; Economic State: Major Recession.
SPAIN PREPARES FOR 1906 WORLD CUP. Madrid, Spain. The Spanish have begun sponsoring the construction of new stadiums on the Iberian Peninsula, preparing to one of the most anticipated sporting events in the next five years. The 1906 Balompie World Cup is to be held in Madrid, and those interested in the sport expect an event larger turnout than the World Cup in Berlin in 1902. It is hoped that more nations will participate in the growth of the sport of balompie, though it still has only gained a small following outside of the Spanish empire and the Germanic states. The efforts have been limited in their construction, but the city government of Madrid assures the teams that the facilities will be complete by the time of the games.
The Jungle
Written by an anonymous American author, this book has been published underground throughout the United States for several years, typically written by hand. The book's actual date of writing is unknown, but has been mostly supported by proletarists and revolutionaries throughout the United States of America. The text has finally managed to break American borders, and was smuggled through Vinland to publishers in the United Kingdom. The British public have found this story, a true illustration of the horrors of the slaves and other disenfranchised of the American nation. The book depicts tragic every-day scenes, including inside stories of the superplantations of the South, or the relentless poverty of the military districts. Concluding with the true story of a serial killer in New York City, and the murder of two investigating private detectives, the world has been shown the true face of the United States' oppression of its people. The result has been uproar among the literacy classes of Europe, where the book has virtually become mandatory reading for the enlightened.
La Invasión Marciana
Written by Spanish author Leandro Moro, La Invasión Marciana is a sequel to the successful novel, La Guerra De Los Mundos. In this follow-up novel, it involves intrigue on earth as the Spanish people learn to operate the Martian equipment left behind in the wake of their failed invasion. They counter-invade Mars with astonishing success. The book has been less than half as popular than the prior novel, only finding a market in Spain itself, considered to be too nationalistic for a global literary marketplace. The relative lack of success of the novel and the death of his wife led to Leandro Moro's drinking and suicide later in the year, ending what could have been a promising career.
Voyage of the Don Pedro
A play commissioned by members of the American government, the Voyage of the Don Pedro has proven to be a surprising success in the United States. The play is a humorous comedy about the attempted Brazilian invasion during the War of the American Presidency. The play takes place as the absurd Brazilian President sends troops to their death in Chincoteague Bay, and features two acts. The play ends with the deaths of the Brazilian soldiers, or their final fate in American prison camps. The play has proven popular among the American upper class as a jab against the decadent and foolish politicians of Brazil.
The Tales of Peter Rabbit
Written by schoolteacher Beatrix Potter, The Tales of Peter Rabbit is the first of its kind, a widely produced children's educational and moral book. The book involves stories about talking animals and a young one in particular named Peter Rabbit. The book imparts valuable life lessons to its readers, hoping to provide good morals to the younger generation through story telling. The book has been published in London, but has proven popular throughout the British Empire, even being sold in limited amounts in other English-speaking countries such as the United States and Argentina.
The Great Mongol Wars
Written by former war correspondent, Leonid Nikita, The Great Mongol Wars started merely as a story about Russia's campaigns against the Zunghar Khanate from 1884-1886, almost completing Russia's drive to the east. The book details the stories of the individuals involved with the campaign, giving a close look at the strategies and tactics of both sides during the struggle. It covers over thirteen major battles and sieges throughout the course of the war, showing how the Russians systematically crushed the last remnants of the khanates of old.
From Naples with Love
A play written for the stage in Stockholm, and a farce, "From Naples With Love" parodies Scandinavian internal politics and the events of the Sicilian Affair when the son of Scandinavia's ambassador to Naples stops at the embassy as part of his honeymoon, a grand tour of Italy, and becomes accidentally involved in the ongoing international crisis when his aging father falls ill. Tasked with overseeing the affairs of the embassy, his honeymoon is cut short by his father's illness and the diplomatic crisis, and the protagonist desperately attempts to salvage the whole affair in the midst of marital frustration, international intrigue, and his cantankerous and scheming father's gross corruption. The play is regarded as a critique of the Industry Party, and conservative policy in Scandinavia and abroad, as outdated, medieval and unrealistic.
Random Stat Changes and Fluctuations and Minor Technological Advances
Superior officers introduce improved drills to Franco-Burgundian Confederation's military: +1 Army Quality and +1 Navy Quality.
Austrian military academies graduate class of superb officers: +1 Army Quality.
Portugal sells construction rights to Joao-class Heavy Cruiser to United States of America and Brittany.
Spain completes research into Small Arms Improvement Level Two and Destroyer Improvement Level Two.
Franco-Burgundian Confederation completes research into Battleship Improvement Level Two.
Spain designs the Conquistador-class Battleship and Numancia-class Destroyer.
Netherlands designs the Eendracht-class Heavy Cruiser, shared with Denmark and the Franco-Burgundian Confederation.
Spain trades construction rights for the Conquistador-class Battleship and Numancia-class Destroyer and the technologies of Destroyer Improvement Level Two and Small Arms Improvement Level Two to the Franco-Burgundian Confederation, Netherlands, and Denmark for constructions for the Eendracht-class Heavy Cruiser and the technologies of Battleship Improvement Level Two and Cruiser Improvement Level Two.
Spain shares construction rights for the Conquistador-class Battleship, the Numancia-class Destroyer, and the Eendracht-class Heavy Cruiser and the technologies of Destroyer Improvement Level Two, Small Arms Improvement Level Two, Battleship Improvement Level Two, and Cruiser Improvement Level Two with Sardinia.
Japan grants construction rights for the Yamato-class Battleship to United States of America, Venezuela, and the Arabian Empire.
Russia, Roman Empire, and Scandinavia complete collaborative research on Cruiser Improvement Level One.
Poland creates the elite force known as the Wojownicy Zimowe.
Poland designs the new Chościsko-class Light Cruisers and Zygmunt-class Destroyers.
Brandenburg completes research into Small Arms Improvement Level One and Artillery Improvement Level One.
Brandenburg shares Small Arms Improvement Level One, Artillery Improvement Level One, and Gas Warfare Level One with the United Kingdom of Great Britain, Poland, Hungary, Serbia, and Georgia.
The United Kingdom of Great Britain shares Small Arms Improvement Level One, Artillery Improvement Level One, and Gas Warfare Level One with Brazil and Argentina.
Brandenburg establishes the elite force known as the Kommandos.
Peru completes research into Destroyer Improvement Level One.
Diplomatic Pouch
To: Naples
From: Sicily
In the past, our two nations have frequently been united under a single flag. We hope to restore this state of affairs which has not existed for the past fifty years. Our people wish to join your nation, but we wish to encourage you to establish a legislative body before we can do so. A nation by a constitution, rather than by an absolute monarch is the only sort we can abide, and we hope you will agree to this proposal, so that our people can fly under a single flag once more.
OOC
@Mickzter97: Unfortunately, "Infrastructure" is not self-explanatory. That's too vague for me to do anything with at all. I'd prefer some sort of specificity, though at the moment there's not really much for Portugal to do when it comes to infrastructure. Furthermore, Portugal already built a national railroad network in the last NES. So, there was nothing for me to do with that portion of your orders. Related EP has been banked.
As noted elsewhere, Grandkhan has moved to Denmark from New Spain, opening New Spain to new players.
Per request, Danish South Africa has been renamed Oranjien.
@Quisani: Please, put your total spending orders at the top of the PM, or at least all in one place. It would make it significantly less time consuming for me to go through your orders if you do this.
@TerrisH: With the completion of the Panama Canal, your funds for the USA were not needed. They were banked, and PLEASE, please, please; "Military recruitment" is the most annoying thing I have ever seen in sets of orders. I know I've told you before. Be SPECIFIC in what you want recruited, it's driving me crazy. Also, spell check never hurt anyone, and it would make going through your orders so much easier. Attempting to translate what you're trying to say to me takes up more time than reading through orders should, and some of your PMs have been to the point where they are almost unintelligible. Though I will admit that this turn's orders are not nearly as bad as previous turns' orders. Lastly, I received no confirmation about any economic pact with Spain, that has also been ignored.
@Lord Iggy: I'm not sure what you're referring to in your orders when you stated: "This value did not change."
For those feeling discouraged and left behind by all the people flagrantly trading around technologies, fear not! While I wouldn't say they've been wasting all their money, it's certainly not going to win them any wars all on its own, or even give them the decisive edge to win. What matters most is tactics and designs.
I'd like to give a special thank you once again to everyone who offered up cultural suggestions and political cartoons. I believe we got almost everything in there, and also, keep up the stories and cultural entries. I rather enjoy the world we're building and the direction we're taking this NES. Sure ya'll may be a bunch of pacifist weenies [/sarcasm], but I do like the culture to date.
World Map
BRITAIN GIVES NEW BATTLESHIP TO BRAZIL. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In a gesture further cementing the friendship between Brazil and Britain, the HMS Excalibur has been granted as a Christmas gift to the Brazilian navy. The new Olympus-class warship is now the most fearsome vessel in any South American fleet, showing the way to a dawn for the Brazilian navy. The tie has been a further symbol of the alliance between Britain and Brazil, demonstrating their friendship and unity in political and military affairs. The move has also been seen as an effort to strengthen the defenses of the Americas against potential threats created by Spain or the Triple Alliance.
BRITISH AND BRAZILIAN FLEETS PROTECT COLOMBIA. Buenaventura, Colombia. As the civil war continues in Colombia, both factions in the struggle have appealed for the support or aid of their old allies in Britain and Brazil. Due to a lack of information and indecision among the powers, it was determined that outright support would be impractical at the time for either faction. The response has instead been a move to secure the country from attacks by the United States or another foreign power. Both of the would-be presidents of Colombia have offered the guaranteed usage of the nation's ports for this effort, pledging security for the harbors. The effort has proven successful, acting not as a blockade, but simply as a way to protect the coastlines of the beleaguered nation.
BRAZIL CONSTRUCTS NEW EXPERIMENTAL RADIO TOWER. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Brazilians have sponsored the construction of a new experimental radio facility in the hills outside of the capital city of Rio de Janeiro. The new facility is to act as a testing ground for the rising technology of radio, as well as some experimental voice news broadcasts into the larger city. Only a few people possess voice receiving radio, but it is viewed as an important step after the disaster of the Reusachtig tragedy off the coast of Guyana. The hopes remain that advances in this technology could help reduce the scale of future naval disasters, as well as enhance the capabilities of Brazilian's forces on global battlefields and front lines.
COLOMBIAN CIVIL WAR. Bogota, Colombia. Fighting continued in Colombia this year, as the nation has been heavily fought over by the conservative and liberal factions. The main conservative offensive has been in the north, where they have move their forces to secure a port and to drive the liberals off the Atlantic coast. The effort proved bloodier than expected as the vastly outnumbered liberal troops still managed to inflict a heavier toll, driving them to a stop near the border of American controlled Panama. The liberals, badly outnumbered, threw the bulk of their force against the conservatives at the capital of Bogota. The liberals managed to secure the bridge across the Bogota River and cross over into the capital, but there, their luck began to dry up. Heavily city fighting took place as both sides fought over the capital, building by building. The fighting was brutal, and ultimately the conservatives managed to push back across the river. This is a major defeat for the liberal cause, leaving them greatly weakened and in a highly vulnerable position. Unfortunately, the battle taxed the conservatives as well, leaving them incapable of taking the initiative of their victory this year, even despite the outpouring of support from neighboring Ecuador.
Casualty Lists
Colombia (Conservative): 3 Conscript Brigades, 6 Infantry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades
Colombia (Liberal): 4 Conscript Brigades, 4 Infantry Brigades, 2 Artillery Brigades
MONTEVIDEO COMPLETES ELEVATED RAIL SYSTEM. Montevideo, Uruguay. The city government of Montevideo was pleased to announce this year the completion of a elevated railway system, to provide mass transportation around Uruguay's capital. The system has been linked to the nation's preexisting railroad network as well as the railroads connecting to Brazil and Argentina. This will vastly improve the means of transportation to Montevideo, both in terms of goods as well as the transportation of people around the city. The tracks operate above the city streets, providing a rapid manner to transport oneself around the urban developed region of Montevideo, safe from crime and the worries of the ground.
News from Africa and the Middle East
TUNISIANS HAVE SUCCESS IN SARDINIAN STRUGGLE. Tunis, Sardinia. Despite the deployment of a few more brigades to the Sardinian garrison in Tunisia, the Sardinians have struggled to gain any successes against the local guerillas. The result has actually been the first true battles between the Tunisians and the Sardinian army, as Sardinian cavalry clashes with several rebel camps. The Sardinians were badly defeated, and several regiments were virtually annihilated when penned in between several Tunisian machine guns. The fighting has been vicious, and the Tunisians seem to have emerged victorious. The Sardinians have yet to locate any more significant Tunisian outposts or sympathizers, as they have proven adept at establishing their influence throughout both the countryside and main city. These victories have given more strength to the Tunisian cause as they fight to oust Sardinian control of their country and restore their independence as a nation. (-1 Cavalry Brigade, -1 Stability)
MUSLIMS THREATEN STRIKE IN ALGERIA. Algiers, Spain. A Islamic cleric has begun rallying a number of supporters to his cause in Algeria against Spanish rule. He has garnered substantial support from an inherent hatred of Spanish colonial rule, as well as the traditional Catholic preference throughout the region. The Muslims have flocked to his caused, as they consist of the majority of the working classes of Algiers and most of the region's port towns. The result has been a threat of a colonial-wide strike to end shipping and transportation until Spain vacates the region and returns rule to the Islamic population. Needless to say, this has put the entire area on edge, as the Catholic and Muslim populations begin to square off. Violence has been reported between the two groups, and many fear it could escalate into even greater bloodshed or unrest. (-1 Stability)
BRITISH CENTRAL AFRICA FACES COLONIAL UNREST. Freetown, United Kingdom of Great Britain. The British colony of Gabon has begun to facing growing disorderly conduct from the local native population. The natives have begun resisting British colonial rule as the garrisons are reinforced against a series of minor raids. The white residents have begun calling for British intervention and aid as the nuisance raids finally grew deadly late in the year. A family farmstead of white citizens in the eastern regions of the colony were found slaughtered, apparently by a native raid. Local militias have begun forming, and there is fear of a much larger war on the horizon as rumors of unity among the tribes have begun to emerge. (-1 Stability)
STOCKHOLM CONFERENCE FAILS AS GEORGIAN VIOLENCE CONTINUES. Tiflis, Georgia. The great powers of the League of the Three Emperors brought themselves together this year in Stockholm to discuss the rising tensions in Georgia. Unfortunately the conference proved to be of insignificant importance as nothing of any merit was agreed upon by any parties. The result has been no agreement of any sort as Georgia remains in the Krakow Pact with Hungary, Britain, and Poland. The violence in Georgia further continued this year as the Russian settlers and Georgians continued to strike at each other, and the Georgian army has begun making preparations for the expulsion of all Russians from their soil. The Georgians have announced that due to the hostile actions of the Russian residents, they will be deported from Georgia back to Russia. The army has been mobilized to begin this effort, hoping to succeed and restore some stability to their nation.
KURDISH INTELLECTUAL CALLS FOR DEMOCRATIC STATE. Cizre, Kurdistan. After last year's revolution which led to an end to the rule of Turkish sultans over the Kurdish people, there has been some debate over the proclamation of the new King Mahmud as leader of the Kurds. Among the intellectuals of the small nation, a number of people have declared that perhaps the opportunity should be seized to establish a republic. This has been met with immense hostility from the monarchy and the military, and the writer responsible for arousing this sentiment has been arrested and imprisoned in Cizre's dungeons. The monarchy has proclaimed that the rule of the Kurdish people will be lead by the kings of the Kurds, and by no other, as proclaimed by Allah. They have vowed to complete the liberation of the Kurdish people, including those remaining the Roman Empire, Persia, and Turkey.
OLD SULTAN ATTEMPTS COUP IN TURKEY. Konya, Turkey. Sponsored by the Roman Empire, particularly with funds and even volunteers hired from among the Roman population. The Turkish sultan has pledged to regain his throne, and invaded Turkey against the local population. The attempting usurping forces were engaged in battle by a much larger Turkish army awaiting at the coastal city of Manavgat. The sultan's army was easily beaten by the defensive forces and the sultan was taken prisoner. With the fight concluded and the most significant Roman puppet in Turkey in chains, an execution was prepared. To the celebration of the people of Turkey, the former Sultan Osman II was executed publically, totally ending the support for his old regime. The army has also gained valuable experience, mobilized as chaos consumes the Roman Empire to the north. (-3 Infantry Brigades, +1 Stability)
News from the Far East
SOCIETY FOR FILIPINO FREEDOM ESTABLISHED. Manila, Spain. This year saw the establishment of the Society of Filipino Freedom in Manila, as an enlightened organization focused upon creating a fully independent state out of the Spanish colony. The local intellectuals and leaders have called for the end of any version of Spanish rule over the Philippines, creating an internationally recognized free nation out of the islands. The current thoughts have been on using the Viceroyalty political system as a base to force the islands' independence through the existing setup of the Imperial Senate. They have called for the will of the people to elect their members to bring about a major change in the government of the islands. The hopes are that violence can be avoided, allowing for the Philippines to become independent while still retaining a fairly amicable relationship with Spain itself.
Financial Section
SCANDINAVIA OFFERS INDUSTRIAL SUBSIDIES. Stockholm, Scandinavia. The new regime of the Industry Party in Scandinavia has begun shifting its platform, hoping to provide greater support to the production centers of the nation. They have offered subsidies to encourage local industry and the exploitation of Scandinavia's own resources for its own industrial platform. This has included the expansion of the steel and railroad production industries, as well as providing for emerging production such as in automotive technology and other markets. The subsidies have been strictly focused to Scandinavian business, but have proven fairly successful, offering at least the appearance of stabilization, despite the problems in the Roman Empire, one of Scandinavia's largest trading partners.
AUSTRIA BUILDS FAILING ARMS FACTORIES. Vienna, Austria. The Austrian government has sponsored the creation of new arms and munitions factories in order to get more people to work across the nation. However, the effort has mostly failed as the number of factories construction vastly outweigh the amount of resources available, or the amount of would-be buyers. Therefore, after only a few weeks of production, most of the factories have closed. The effort has been seen as a miserable economic failure, wasting most of Austria's limited funds and manpower. The monarchy has been harshly criticized for the strain the program put upon the nation's economy, as most of the supplies actually produce now sit in unused stockpiles gathering rust and dust.
ECONOMIC FLUCTUATION REPORT. Madrid, Spain. Total Economic Change: -75 EP; Economic State: Major Recession.
Spoiler :
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The Sports Page
SPAIN PREPARES FOR 1906 WORLD CUP. Madrid, Spain. The Spanish have begun sponsoring the construction of new stadiums on the Iberian Peninsula, preparing to one of the most anticipated sporting events in the next five years. The 1906 Balompie World Cup is to be held in Madrid, and those interested in the sport expect an event larger turnout than the World Cup in Berlin in 1902. It is hoped that more nations will participate in the growth of the sport of balompie, though it still has only gained a small following outside of the Spanish empire and the Germanic states. The efforts have been limited in their construction, but the city government of Madrid assures the teams that the facilities will be complete by the time of the games.
The Cultural Center
The Jungle
Written by an anonymous American author, this book has been published underground throughout the United States for several years, typically written by hand. The book's actual date of writing is unknown, but has been mostly supported by proletarists and revolutionaries throughout the United States of America. The text has finally managed to break American borders, and was smuggled through Vinland to publishers in the United Kingdom. The British public have found this story, a true illustration of the horrors of the slaves and other disenfranchised of the American nation. The book depicts tragic every-day scenes, including inside stories of the superplantations of the South, or the relentless poverty of the military districts. Concluding with the true story of a serial killer in New York City, and the murder of two investigating private detectives, the world has been shown the true face of the United States' oppression of its people. The result has been uproar among the literacy classes of Europe, where the book has virtually become mandatory reading for the enlightened.
La Invasión Marciana
Written by Spanish author Leandro Moro, La Invasión Marciana is a sequel to the successful novel, La Guerra De Los Mundos. In this follow-up novel, it involves intrigue on earth as the Spanish people learn to operate the Martian equipment left behind in the wake of their failed invasion. They counter-invade Mars with astonishing success. The book has been less than half as popular than the prior novel, only finding a market in Spain itself, considered to be too nationalistic for a global literary marketplace. The relative lack of success of the novel and the death of his wife led to Leandro Moro's drinking and suicide later in the year, ending what could have been a promising career.
Voyage of the Don Pedro
A play commissioned by members of the American government, the Voyage of the Don Pedro has proven to be a surprising success in the United States. The play is a humorous comedy about the attempted Brazilian invasion during the War of the American Presidency. The play takes place as the absurd Brazilian President sends troops to their death in Chincoteague Bay, and features two acts. The play ends with the deaths of the Brazilian soldiers, or their final fate in American prison camps. The play has proven popular among the American upper class as a jab against the decadent and foolish politicians of Brazil.
The Tales of Peter Rabbit
Written by schoolteacher Beatrix Potter, The Tales of Peter Rabbit is the first of its kind, a widely produced children's educational and moral book. The book involves stories about talking animals and a young one in particular named Peter Rabbit. The book imparts valuable life lessons to its readers, hoping to provide good morals to the younger generation through story telling. The book has been published in London, but has proven popular throughout the British Empire, even being sold in limited amounts in other English-speaking countries such as the United States and Argentina.
The Great Mongol Wars
Written by former war correspondent, Leonid Nikita, The Great Mongol Wars started merely as a story about Russia's campaigns against the Zunghar Khanate from 1884-1886, almost completing Russia's drive to the east. The book details the stories of the individuals involved with the campaign, giving a close look at the strategies and tactics of both sides during the struggle. It covers over thirteen major battles and sieges throughout the course of the war, showing how the Russians systematically crushed the last remnants of the khanates of old.
From Naples with Love
A play written for the stage in Stockholm, and a farce, "From Naples With Love" parodies Scandinavian internal politics and the events of the Sicilian Affair when the son of Scandinavia's ambassador to Naples stops at the embassy as part of his honeymoon, a grand tour of Italy, and becomes accidentally involved in the ongoing international crisis when his aging father falls ill. Tasked with overseeing the affairs of the embassy, his honeymoon is cut short by his father's illness and the diplomatic crisis, and the protagonist desperately attempts to salvage the whole affair in the midst of marital frustration, international intrigue, and his cantankerous and scheming father's gross corruption. The play is regarded as a critique of the Industry Party, and conservative policy in Scandinavia and abroad, as outdated, medieval and unrealistic.
Political Cartoons
Random Stat Changes and Fluctuations and Minor Technological Advances
Superior officers introduce improved drills to Franco-Burgundian Confederation's military: +1 Army Quality and +1 Navy Quality.
Austrian military academies graduate class of superb officers: +1 Army Quality.
Portugal sells construction rights to Joao-class Heavy Cruiser to United States of America and Brittany.
Spain completes research into Small Arms Improvement Level Two and Destroyer Improvement Level Two.
Franco-Burgundian Confederation completes research into Battleship Improvement Level Two.
Spain designs the Conquistador-class Battleship and Numancia-class Destroyer.
Netherlands designs the Eendracht-class Heavy Cruiser, shared with Denmark and the Franco-Burgundian Confederation.
Spain trades construction rights for the Conquistador-class Battleship and Numancia-class Destroyer and the technologies of Destroyer Improvement Level Two and Small Arms Improvement Level Two to the Franco-Burgundian Confederation, Netherlands, and Denmark for constructions for the Eendracht-class Heavy Cruiser and the technologies of Battleship Improvement Level Two and Cruiser Improvement Level Two.
Spain shares construction rights for the Conquistador-class Battleship, the Numancia-class Destroyer, and the Eendracht-class Heavy Cruiser and the technologies of Destroyer Improvement Level Two, Small Arms Improvement Level Two, Battleship Improvement Level Two, and Cruiser Improvement Level Two with Sardinia.
Japan grants construction rights for the Yamato-class Battleship to United States of America, Venezuela, and the Arabian Empire.
Russia, Roman Empire, and Scandinavia complete collaborative research on Cruiser Improvement Level One.
Poland creates the elite force known as the Wojownicy Zimowe.
Poland designs the new Chościsko-class Light Cruisers and Zygmunt-class Destroyers.
Brandenburg completes research into Small Arms Improvement Level One and Artillery Improvement Level One.
Brandenburg shares Small Arms Improvement Level One, Artillery Improvement Level One, and Gas Warfare Level One with the United Kingdom of Great Britain, Poland, Hungary, Serbia, and Georgia.
The United Kingdom of Great Britain shares Small Arms Improvement Level One, Artillery Improvement Level One, and Gas Warfare Level One with Brazil and Argentina.
Brandenburg establishes the elite force known as the Kommandos.
Peru completes research into Destroyer Improvement Level One.
Diplomatic Pouch
To: Naples
From: Sicily
In the past, our two nations have frequently been united under a single flag. We hope to restore this state of affairs which has not existed for the past fifty years. Our people wish to join your nation, but we wish to encourage you to establish a legislative body before we can do so. A nation by a constitution, rather than by an absolute monarch is the only sort we can abide, and we hope you will agree to this proposal, so that our people can fly under a single flag once more.
OOC
@Mickzter97: Unfortunately, "Infrastructure" is not self-explanatory. That's too vague for me to do anything with at all. I'd prefer some sort of specificity, though at the moment there's not really much for Portugal to do when it comes to infrastructure. Furthermore, Portugal already built a national railroad network in the last NES. So, there was nothing for me to do with that portion of your orders. Related EP has been banked.
As noted elsewhere, Grandkhan has moved to Denmark from New Spain, opening New Spain to new players.
Per request, Danish South Africa has been renamed Oranjien.
@Quisani: Please, put your total spending orders at the top of the PM, or at least all in one place. It would make it significantly less time consuming for me to go through your orders if you do this.
@TerrisH: With the completion of the Panama Canal, your funds for the USA were not needed. They were banked, and PLEASE, please, please; "Military recruitment" is the most annoying thing I have ever seen in sets of orders. I know I've told you before. Be SPECIFIC in what you want recruited, it's driving me crazy. Also, spell check never hurt anyone, and it would make going through your orders so much easier. Attempting to translate what you're trying to say to me takes up more time than reading through orders should, and some of your PMs have been to the point where they are almost unintelligible. Though I will admit that this turn's orders are not nearly as bad as previous turns' orders. Lastly, I received no confirmation about any economic pact with Spain, that has also been ignored.
@Lord Iggy: I'm not sure what you're referring to in your orders when you stated: "This value did not change."
For those feeling discouraged and left behind by all the people flagrantly trading around technologies, fear not! While I wouldn't say they've been wasting all their money, it's certainly not going to win them any wars all on its own, or even give them the decisive edge to win. What matters most is tactics and designs.
I'd like to give a special thank you once again to everyone who offered up cultural suggestions and political cartoons. I believe we got almost everything in there, and also, keep up the stories and cultural entries. I rather enjoy the world we're building and the direction we're taking this NES. Sure ya'll may be a bunch of pacifist weenies [/sarcasm], but I do like the culture to date.
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Lord of Elves
Suede-Denim Secret Police
- Joined
- Oct 31, 2009
- Messages
- 6,976
From: Empire of Scandinavia
To: Concerned Parties
We can confirm that the "Berlin Telegraph" document did not originate from any person or office within this government, with any approval from their superiors or oversight by any function of this government. A full inquest will be made into this matter, and the persons responsible will be punished to the fullest extent possible and prudent for their presumption to speak to genocide and terrorism on behalf of the Imperial Rikstag. We remain fully committed to the goal of Pomeranian sovereignty, and the peace of all nations in Europe and elsewhere.
From: Empire of Scandinavia
To: Roman Empire
Just when you think the world has enough problems, a giant rock falls in the middle of your capital. We cannot express the deep sorrow and concern of the nation and its citizens on your behalf. We pledge to do everything in our power to aid you in your recovery from this terrible disaster.
To: Concerned Parties
We can confirm that the "Berlin Telegraph" document did not originate from any person or office within this government, with any approval from their superiors or oversight by any function of this government. A full inquest will be made into this matter, and the persons responsible will be punished to the fullest extent possible and prudent for their presumption to speak to genocide and terrorism on behalf of the Imperial Rikstag. We remain fully committed to the goal of Pomeranian sovereignty, and the peace of all nations in Europe and elsewhere.
From: Empire of Scandinavia
To: Roman Empire
Just when you think the world has enough problems, a giant rock falls in the middle of your capital. We cannot express the deep sorrow and concern of the nation and its citizens on your behalf. We pledge to do everything in our power to aid you in your recovery from this terrible disaster.
TerrisH
Mischief?
@EQ the problem is, I don't know what needs to be recruited. And I figure my generals have a better idea to what they need then I do. Hence the order. Any advice on how to determine what I need would be helpful, but baring that, I am likely to continue to do so, since you have a decent clue what is needed.
I'll try sending my orders in sooner, so I'm not half asleep when I send them. even though I might miss a few diplos. thought I did spell check them though. I'll run them through a second one to be sure though. sorry.
I'll try sending my orders in sooner, so I'm not half asleep when I send them. even though I might miss a few diplos. thought I did spell check them though. I'll run them through a second one to be sure though. sorry.
Crezth
i knew you were a real man of the left
The United Kingdom of Great Britain harshly denounces the Scandinavian government's callous disregard for the rights of man with respect to the Pommeranian situation. How curious that Brandenburg is treated as the villain when the Scandinavians seem to have no qualms about murdering a nation they claim to respect to suit their ends.
We are announcing a trade embargo, effective immediately, on all Scandinavian-produced goods until such a time as becomes apparent that the Scandinavians demonstrate contriteness for their heinous deeds.
---------------------
To: The Roman Empire
From: The United Kingdom
We can scarcely believe the horrible tragedy that has befallen your people. The king would like to express his personal regret for the natural disaster that you have been forced to endure. We wish you the best and will pray for your speedy recovery.
God bless.
We are announcing a trade embargo, effective immediately, on all Scandinavian-produced goods until such a time as becomes apparent that the Scandinavians demonstrate contriteness for their heinous deeds.
---------------------
To: The Roman Empire
From: The United Kingdom
We can scarcely believe the horrible tragedy that has befallen your people. The king would like to express his personal regret for the natural disaster that you have been forced to endure. We wish you the best and will pray for your speedy recovery.
God bless.
Luckymoose
The World is Mine
Brazil doubles this trade embargo and asks all of our allies to do the same.
OOC: I would feel sorry for the Romans, but the last time I did people blamed me for a tragedy. Not falling for it this time, EARTH!
OOC: I would feel sorry for the Romans, but the last time I did people blamed me for a tragedy. Not falling for it this time, EARTH!
Lord of Elves
Suede-Denim Secret Police
- Joined
- Oct 31, 2009
- Messages
- 6,976
We call upon you to renounce this embargo immediately, as no office within our government has record of producing, or authorizing the production of, such a communique. The responsible parties, once discovered, will be expunged.
Luckymoose
The World is Mine
The harsh words of tyrants cannot enter the halls of democracy. Do not demand of our allies anything.
Crezth
i knew you were a real man of the left
"Expunge" the responsible ambassadors and the foreign ministry head officers, and we'll consider it.
Lord of Elves
Suede-Denim Secret Police
- Joined
- Oct 31, 2009
- Messages
- 6,976
We will take whatever steps, and all steps, necessary to right this wrong. Needless to say, we have every interest in maintaining the capability and loyalty of our own government offices.
Crezth
i knew you were a real man of the left
See to it that you do, and we will lift the embargo.
To: Sicily
From: Naples
We would love for Sicily and Naples to be joined together once again. However, as we're sure you'll understand, it could take a few years to change our government stably and peacefully. It would be great if Sicily were willing to unite with Naples soon and help us make a shift. Moving to a parliamentary sort of system, but where the monarch will still have a good amount of power would be something we could move towards. The people would still have rights to vote in a political party and get a prime minister like normal parliamentary systems, but we would like our monarch to still have a good amount of control over the nation, since it was he who chose to aid Sicily in the first place.
To: The Roman Empire
From: Naples
We are at a loss for words about your situation. We hope that your nation will be able to recover and thrive once again very soon. When we would like to offer a hand in helping your nation once we have sorted out our current debts.
From: Naples
We would love for Sicily and Naples to be joined together once again. However, as we're sure you'll understand, it could take a few years to change our government stably and peacefully. It would be great if Sicily were willing to unite with Naples soon and help us make a shift. Moving to a parliamentary sort of system, but where the monarch will still have a good amount of power would be something we could move towards. The people would still have rights to vote in a political party and get a prime minister like normal parliamentary systems, but we would like our monarch to still have a good amount of control over the nation, since it was he who chose to aid Sicily in the first place.
To: The Roman Empire
From: Naples
We are at a loss for words about your situation. We hope that your nation will be able to recover and thrive once again very soon. When we would like to offer a hand in helping your nation once we have sorted out our current debts.
Circuit
Writing Letters
To: The World
From: United States of America
The Panama Canal is open for business! We thank our supporters and hope that global prosperity will ensue from this monumental achievement.
To: Persia
From: United States of America
We shall begin repaying your loans to us. If our accountants are correct, we owe you [220 EP].
To: Roman Empire
From: United States of America
The loss of Constantinople will forever be remembered as one of the darkest moments in human history. May God be merciful to the city. We offer you our condolences.
OOC:
...best...line...
@luckymoose: You can command space rocks? We surrender.
From: United States of America
The Panama Canal is open for business! We thank our supporters and hope that global prosperity will ensue from this monumental achievement.
To: Persia
From: United States of America
We shall begin repaying your loans to us. If our accountants are correct, we owe you [220 EP].
To: Roman Empire
From: United States of America
The loss of Constantinople will forever be remembered as one of the darkest moments in human history. May God be merciful to the city. We offer you our condolences.
OOC:
...best...line...
@luckymoose: You can command space rocks? We surrender.
ZeletDude
The Lion
- Joined
- Aug 16, 2009
- Messages
- 5,490
To: The Roman Empire
There are not enough words to express our true sorrow, our hearts go out to you following this terrible event. We hope you may overcome it.
edit -
my stability didn't go up following my elections, like the update said it should.
There are not enough words to express our true sorrow, our hearts go out to you following this terrible event. We hope you may overcome it.
edit -
my stability didn't go up following my elections, like the update said it should.
Grandkhan
Telvanni Master Wizard
OOC:
So, so true. Man, if I had a penny.
To: The Roman Empire
From: Denmark
We wish to offer our deepest condolences to the great tragedy that has befallen your capital. Denmark pledges to do anything required to help the citizens of Constantinople in these trying times.
So, so true. Man, if I had a penny.
To: The Roman Empire
From: Denmark
We wish to offer our deepest condolences to the great tragedy that has befallen your capital. Denmark pledges to do anything required to help the citizens of Constantinople in these trying times.
Milarqui
Deity
To: Roman Empire
From: Empire of Spain
We are very sorry for what has happened to you. It has to be truly the work of the devil, to destroy such a magnificent city as Constantinople, and kill so many people in this horrible way. We offer our help to you so that you may recover as best as possible from this hammer that has fallen upon you.
To: Sicily
From: Empire of Spain
We believe that your petition to become part of the Kingdom of Naples falls under the category of "treaties that are harmful to the interests of Spain", as stipulated in the treaty we signed to give you independence. Please, drop your petitions, or else the nation you will lose your suzerainty to will be Spain.
To: United States of America
From: Empire of Spain
You would do well in remembering our contribution to the construction of the Panama Canal, which, if we are not mistaken, ascends to [300 EP].
To: Occitania
From: Empire of Spain
We duly hope that you will act to arrest and judge the perpetrators of the attacks upon Spanish people and goods within your national territory.
To: Would-be Argelian strikers
From: Spanish government
What is it that you desire to do with this idiocy? Blackmail us into giving you independence? We are afraid you will not find us as unwilling to act as the previous government. Anyone found inciting a strike, given the nature of your demands, will be considered a traitor to the Crown and, depending on the degree of betrayal, will be shot or exiled.
From: Empire of Spain
We are very sorry for what has happened to you. It has to be truly the work of the devil, to destroy such a magnificent city as Constantinople, and kill so many people in this horrible way. We offer our help to you so that you may recover as best as possible from this hammer that has fallen upon you.
To: Sicily
From: Empire of Spain
We believe that your petition to become part of the Kingdom of Naples falls under the category of "treaties that are harmful to the interests of Spain", as stipulated in the treaty we signed to give you independence. Please, drop your petitions, or else the nation you will lose your suzerainty to will be Spain.
To: United States of America
From: Empire of Spain
You would do well in remembering our contribution to the construction of the Panama Canal, which, if we are not mistaken, ascends to [300 EP].
To: Occitania
From: Empire of Spain
We duly hope that you will act to arrest and judge the perpetrators of the attacks upon Spanish people and goods within your national territory.
To: Would-be Argelian strikers
From: Spanish government
What is it that you desire to do with this idiocy? Blackmail us into giving you independence? We are afraid you will not find us as unwilling to act as the previous government. Anyone found inciting a strike, given the nature of your demands, will be considered a traitor to the Crown and, depending on the degree of betrayal, will be shot or exiled.
OOC: Great update as always.
IC: To: The Roman Empire
From: The Arabian Empire
The Emperor is saddened to hear the news of the destruction of Constantinople and the plight of the people of the Roman Empire. Such a City had stood for thousands of years only to be wiped out in an instant without warning. The Arabian Empire offers 2 EP to the Roman Empire to assist in any way possible.
To: Kurdistan
From: The Arabian Empire
The Arabian Empire is pleased to hear that King Mahmud's power has been maintained in the threat of liberal ideas. We would like to propose our nations enter into a defensive alliance to ensure security and stability in the region.
IC: To: The Roman Empire
From: The Arabian Empire
The Emperor is saddened to hear the news of the destruction of Constantinople and the plight of the people of the Roman Empire. Such a City had stood for thousands of years only to be wiped out in an instant without warning. The Arabian Empire offers 2 EP to the Roman Empire to assist in any way possible.
To: Kurdistan
From: The Arabian Empire
The Arabian Empire is pleased to hear that King Mahmud's power has been maintained in the threat of liberal ideas. We would like to propose our nations enter into a defensive alliance to ensure security and stability in the region.
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