curtis
2009-07-20, 04:31 AM
1st January 2125. The skies are full of fireworks, and people laugh in the streets.
I bet most of them will be dead within a year.
Players The Confederacy of the States (Night Surgeon)Back ground: After the American Chinese war, a new President emerged after a land slide election. His name was Sigmund Eugene Reed. He was a prodigal doctor in the fields of physics, and mathmatics who had brought many a development to the proud country of America. However, he proved to be more then meets then eye, when he officaly closed all American boarders, after Anexing Canada, and crushing them in a swift, brutal, military conflict that ended in a thirty minuet battle that became known as the legendary "10 hour War". The secret behind the battle was Sigmunds BRILLIANT use of tactics, he out preformed, and out manuevered the Canadian generals at every step pushing his forces in at the speed that the motorized divisions could barely keep up with. However, tactics were not the only advantage that America had attained, they had developed in the past year a Stealth Suit that made the wearer invisible to the naked eye, and even managed to nullify motion sensors, giving them the ultimate in inflitrating. However, as their economy was nearly shut down over night by the world wide embargo, America now struggles to keep it's millitary up in the numbers, and until they can divine a solution they have cut down majorly on all spending including Social Security, and many Government Jobs are now Volunteer work. However, he managed to preserve the American way, and their rights through a secret pact with Germany which excluded them from the world wide Embargo, and allowed much needed resources to be funneled in under heavy watch. Over the years, much of Americas territory has become adabonded due to industrial pollution however, and though Americans promise that it can only get better Morale has been low, and the world opinion of this once great country has faltered as their non evironmentalist views have wracked the heartlands with desolation, and the world opinion grows dim. (Powerful, but slightly outdated millitary, GREAT Espionage, barely above ground economy, faltering morale, and low world opinion.)
Strengths: Powerful, but quickly outdating due to lack of alternative fuels available to them military, Powerful Espionage due to near perfect invisibility suits.
Weaknesses: Faltering Economy with the world basiclly shut out sans Germany, NO world opinion for anyone sans Germany, and a few Envrionmentalist Groups. Only decent morale despite maintaing many freedoms, and having a okay quality of life.
Head operatives:
Sigmund Reed :, President in these dim times (Indefinite period of Election due to the Elastic Clause in respect to the constitution.), brilliant commander in chief, and Doctor of Physics and Math.
Speaker of the House: Arthur Nye, A tall man with sandy brown hair, and hope filled hazel eyes. He's the kind of man you see on a poster that promotes hope. Professional PR man.
Secretary of Defense: Mikhail Klashkanov, desendant of the man who invented the gun for which his sur name represents, first Russian Secretary of Defense, and Doctor of Military Science. Currently spear heading a new military development of unsure ends.
Secretary of Envrionmental affiars: Nancy Dent, A older woman with graying hair, and a sweet smile. She spends most of her time off the job doing volunteer work around the community attempting to keep it clean enough to live in respectfully.
Moral:++++
World Opinion: +
Economy: +++
Technology: +++++
Espionage: ++++++++
Military: ++++++
Tactical Genius: The Confederacy's troops, when commanded by their leader, are unmatched tactically.
Invisibility Suits: You have stealth technology capable of making men invisible and almost undetectable. Improves your espionage when spying in open territory.
Hated By All: No-one likes you. :’(
The European Union (Wizard of the Coat)History
As China and America faced off in their war Europe swiftly fell into an economic crisis, with their investments in the States and their factories in China both being wasted in the all commanding war. Yet rather than falter and disintergrate, as political scolars thought they might, Europe banded together as a union of individual states. Swiftly the few eastern european countries that had not joined them now became members and the continen, sans Russia, was united in peace.
Overcoming hardships through knowledge the different European lands and their commisioners invested in fusion energy, abandoned a century earlier due to rising costs, and succeeded in making it a reality. With this extremely large energy resevoir their economy was rebooted and the second great project was undertaken, the conquest of space. As polution from fallout ravaged the world the Europeans believed it was only a matter of time before it would consume Earth. Soon colonies on Luna and deep space research stations on the moons of saturn and jupiter were established.
Europe it seemed was reaching for the stars, but kept mindfull of it's neighbours. Building a powerfull network of deterrents to keep foreigners and their problems out, using a variety of technological countermeasures. The European fortress is potent and awe inspiring, yet their offensive military is minimal as they do not want to be perceived as a theat.
Strength: master of technology with amongs other things deep space research stations, fledgeling lunar colonies and a highly educated population, self sufficient due to potent and extensive fusion powered economy with decent defensive military (high defence, low offence)
Weaknesses: Reclusive due to their closure to foreign citizens (high spy defence, but hardly any offense), Union decisions take time due to bureaucracy, population is rather indifferent to the government (don't care one way or the other, hard to change for better or worse)
Religions: Mainly liberal atheists with lingering remnants of islam (~10%) and christianity (~3%), though most people still restect liberal christian values they have lost faith long ago. Now mostly immigrants from africa (christians) and the arab world (islam) maintain their religions. Freedom of religion is in place, but religion is not allowed in public institutions.
Joris Dapper- President of the commission
An inspiring leade Joris has been a keen factor of the european reforms during his days as commissioner for Science and Research. Under his leadership the EU is further capitolising on this.
Heinrich Hanze - EU commisioner for Enterprise & Industry
Germany was still europe's main exporter and it was only natural for them to be given this position. Hanze is mainly charged with getting scientific advances to be used as innovative new business opportunities. He's exploring ways for colaboration with others, and seems interested in sharing Europe's vast technological knowledge with all mankind. Still he faces much oposition from Victoria, leaving Joris with a deciding vote on the matter.
Victoria Lyvtchen - EU commisionor for Research and Science
Together with Hanze and Joris she dominates European policy with the NET largest budget (agriculture, education and health have larger gross budgets). She's a former Kosmonaut experimenting with fusion in space, before becoming the first governer of the lunar colonies and after that commisioner for Research and Science when Joris Dapper vacated this seat.
CS -alliance-
Old allies, we owe them our unity. let's help them rebuild, but be carefull they don't abuse their power.
TSTS -alliance-
Old friends, why didn't we let them enter a century ago?
Brazil -friendly-
Wait, why did we place so many restrictions upon them. They are good people. Let's check with the office for...
<several weeks of bureacracy later> "I give up..."
Aussies -cool-
Good thing those zealots are far away. Still they have some very usefull resources!
Moral:++++
World Opinion: ++++
Economy: ++++++
Technology: ++++++++
Espionage: +
Military: ++
Closed Off: Increases defensive espionage and vastly increases defensive military ratings.
…In Space!: This nation has deep space research stations and even colonies on the Moon.
Bureaucracy: Major decisions take some time.
Multinational Organization: Made up of many smaller countries.
The Sublime Turkish State (Dersess)History: In September 23rd, 2014, in the Russian port city of Novorossiysk, a standoff between Russian Spetznaz forces and Georgian Nationalists was taking place for control of a large cargo freighter, one housing several high-yield atomic weapons. After several hours of back-and-forth fighting, the Russian forces took the ship and executed the remaining rebels. However, the Russo-Georgian War was just getting underway.
After three years of fighting, Russian forces began moving into Bat'umi, a town on the Georgian and Turkish border. Many Georgians fled into Turkey to escape the destruction of the war, including many high-ranking members of the Georgian military. The Russians demanded their release into Russian custody, which, after much deliberation, the Turks refused. The Russian military began marching on Turkish soil January 14th, 2018, the inauguration of the new Turkish President, Mehmed Heyreddin. His first task as president was to organize a defense against one of the most militarily powerful countries in the world.
As compulsory military service is required of all Turkish males, hundreds of thousands of men took up arms to defend their homes. Informally called "Janissaries," by their detractors, the Turkish armed forces were able to fight a brilliant defensive war which cost them a small fraction of what it cost the Russians. Also, strong cultural ties between many Middle Eastern and Caucus nations formed a strong coalition against the Russian aggression that would help form the foundation of a new Turkish state.
However, the massive Russian army was able to launch subsequent attacks on just about any close nation that sided with the Turks, and after five years of fighting, the Turkish morale was beginning to break. The Turks needed a miracle if they were to win this war. That would come on April 29th, 2023, when an unnamed Captain and his tank squadrons came across a group of 4 Russian Infantry divisions and 6 Russian Armor divisions moving on the capital city of Ankara. Doing the best they could, the Turkish tanks prevented the Russians from moving into the city while allowing the citizens of Ankara to evacuate. After 30 hours of fighting, the Russians-a force of almost 50,000-surrendered to the Turkish force of 400. The Russian Prime Minister immediately sued for peace made billions of dollars in reparations to the Turks. President Heyreddin, now a cultural and political icon of the Turkish state, used the money to fund reformations of just about every cumbersome or unwieldy aspect of the Turkish government, education, and military systems. In the course of 3 years, not only had Turkey rebuilt, it had become one of the most economically, politically, and militarily powerful nations on the planet, all thanks to President Heyreddin. As the Turkish state began to thrive, smaller states surrounding it wished to share in its prosperity and might, to which Heyreddin agreed. Eventually, it had subsumed Greece, many of the Balkan nations, the Caucus nations, Egypt, and many Middle Eastern nations. Some of the more proud ones (such as Iran) remained independent, however took the suggestions and ideals of the Turkish state very close to the heart in exchange for aid.
They people had come to trust Heyreddin, and thus, his title as president was removed, and he was named Sultan of the new Turkish state. The Heyreddin dynasty still lasts to his day.
Strengths: An extremely powerful military thanks to cutting edge military and medical technology, high morale, powerhouse economy.
Weaknesses: A relatively low world opinion, low espionage, lacking technology in day-to-day use.
The Players:
Suleiman III--The Sultan of the Turkish State, he is a jolly man well-loved by his subjects.
Is'mael al-Hussad Pasha--Aged leader of the Turkish armed forces and the First Janissary (a title meaning he has complete control over the entire Janissary corps), Is'mael has proven himself numerous times both as a field commander and as the Sultan's bodyguard. He is currently looking for a protege so he can retire.
Dr. Konstantina Cocles--A brilliant doctor of engineering, she is in charge of the State-sponsored Research and Development laboratories.
Roxelana Livoska--Born a commoner, the wife of the Sultan has no true power in the government, however she voices her opinions about the affairs of the people, which her husband and his advisers take very seriously.
Religious Beliefs: A majority of people subscribe to Islam, and it is considered by outsiders as the state religion (there is none). Numbers of Jewish and Christian centers thrive around Jerusalem, and more are scattered throughout the areas bordering Russia and Europe. In Persia, Zoroastrianism is undergoing a resurgence, but their numbers are nowhere near even the amounts of Christians or Jews. Other beliefs are present, but rarely seen.
Moral:+++++++
World Opinion: +++
Economy: +++++++
Technology: +++++++
Espionage: ++
Military: +++++++
Military Tech: Although the military and medical technology is high, technology for everyday use is lacking.
Powerful Enemy: One or more fairly powerful countries really don’t like you.
The Confederation of States: "The Americans? What's to say? It's not their fault that they're led by a domineering mad-man who launched an unprovoked war on a neighboring nation. Most of them are good people. They just...are misguided."
The European Union: "They helped us out a bit during the War, and they've done right by us since then. I'd like to think we've done the same."
Brazil: "Strange place...strange place indeed. Think they can go about fixing every slight flaw with their science. If you ask me, they play at godhood too much for their own good. Still, they've been good trade partners over the years, so no real sense in rocking the boat there."
Australia: "A whole nation of crazies, them. Sure, they seem like they have a good life, but when a crisis rears its head, you can bet the **** will hit the fan. Badly."
Nipponese Technocratic Commune: "We've had a few of those Japanese doctors helping with our research, from what I understand, and vice-versa. Not to mention they're a fairly prickly thorn in the Great Bear's side. I hear they don't like us too much over there. Probably more than a little jealous, but who wouldn't be?"
TGCP: "Don't trust them. Live up the on their ice blocks, doing goodness-knows what. I'm all one for technological improvement, but they may pose a serious threat to us all one day. When that time comes, we'll put them down like a rabid hound."
Refuge of Geneva: "Shame they can't get along with their old neighbors. They're a proud people, to be sure. It'll probably get the best of them in the long run."
Iberia: "I have a feeling that whole place might be a bit of a powder keg. I mean, they're still a part of the EU, but I don't think they'll be content that way forever. They'll want to break away, and when that happens, it won't do so quietly."
P.A.C.: "As far as I'm concerned, they don't get along with the Russians. That makes them good people. I hear we may start doing some heavy trading with them soon enough."
The Republic of Novgorod: "They're Russians. Doesn't matter how frilly of a dress you put it in, a bear is a bear. Turn your back on them for one second, and you'll pay for it with your life."
Brazil (ttp?)Brazil remained neutral during the U.S.-Chinese war, and became a popular refuge for dissidents and refugees from both sides. This brought them a strong influx of scientific talent, which together with their advantageous launch site on the equator, allowed them to briefly seize the forefront of space exploration in the post-war years. The more organized economy of the European Union has since eclipsed the Brazilian space program, although the launch site at Alcantara still sees heavy use for commercial low-orbit applications.
Where Brazil currently shines is in the life sciences. The country boasts many of the world's foremost geneticists, some home-trained, others attracted by the government's free-wheeling attitude toward genetic experimentation. The economy receives a significant boost from wealthy foreign citizens traveling to Brazil for cutting-edge medical treatment, or more quietly, for genetic manipulation which would be illegal elsewhere. Thanks to genetically engineered crops tailored for the equatorial rain forest climate, Brazil has also become one of the world's major food exporters.
Socially and culturally, the nation is an iconoclastic mixture of scientists, environmentalists, farmers, hedonists, traditionalists, resurgent indigenous cultures, and eccentrics of all stripes. Immigrants from all over the world rub elbows with locals. First-rate education and medical care are seen as the birthright of every Brazilian, and people tolerate enough taxes to fund these things, but beyond that the government struggles to exert even a loose control over everyday life.
The military is rudimentary at best, with many reservists but almost no standing army. The large reserve comes in handy at times of natural or human-made disaster, and people will mobilize without hesitation to defend against outside aggression, as recent border skirmishes with the Greater Peruvian Federation have demonstrated. But the prospect of Brazil ever projecting military power beyond its own borders is almost laughable.
Brazil's waves of immigration have brought every sort of religion and lack thereof to the country, but it remains majority Catholic, with Protestantism, Islam, and Neo-Paganism among the most popular minority religions.
Brazil's strain of Catholicism, though, is a highly independent one, to the immense frustration of the Vatican. They cheerfully ignore Papal edicts which they find outdated or irrelevant (including everything the Vatican has ever had to say about medicine and genetic engineering) and Brazilian Archbishops have twice gone so far as to elect an alternate Pope of their own in place of an especially disliked conservative. Through all of this, Brazilian Catholics continue to see themselves as paragons of their religion, and wonder when the Popes will finally grow up and see things their way.
The government, of course, keeps their noses out of everyone's religion as long as no overly messy human sacrifices are taking place in the streets.
Good natural resources and lucrative exports of food, medicine, and medical technology.
Strong scientific community in general, and unsurpassed in genetic engineering.
Well educated population with diverse backgrounds and skills.
Diverse population makes it easy to infiltrate other nations. Brazil will also have citizens who have lived in the other country and can blend in easily. These same immigrants may also have contacts still in the home country who are planning to defect soon to Brazil (or who can be bribed by a Brazilian medical miracle needed for themselves or a loved one.)
Loose political control; people not likely to obey government edicts they disagree with.
Mediocre military; reserves give a decent defensive capability, but almost no capacity to invade or occupy a rival. Significant pacifist streak in population.
The same open, cosmopolitan society that makes it easy for Brazilian spies to infiltrate other countries, also help foreign spies to infiltrate Brazil.
Foreign policy is likely to be influenced by the citizens' ideals and prejudices, rather than by purely practical considerations.
Confederation of the States:
Cold to downright hostile. Brazil exports food to the States, but most Brazilians regard the Confederation's environmental policies as criminal, and the President as a dangerous lunatic. Canadian loyalist refugees have found Brazil to be fertile ground for stirring up opposition to the States, and several terrorist attacks against Confederate interests in Canada are thought to have been funded by weathy Brazilian citizens.
European Union:
Technological rivals, but basically civil relations with highly interdependent economies. Brazil's research establishment relies heavily on European-made computers and other scientific equipment, while their exports of food and medicine help sustain Europe's dense population. Brazilian citizens do resent the closed nature of European society, while a typical European finds Brazil's freewheeling culture to be almost childish.
Sublime Turkish State:
Brazil and Turkey regard each other with mutual suspicion, each bewildered by the other's social norms. Strong and mutually benefical trade relations have eased the tension slightly, but the underlying distrust remains. In Turkey, it is considered a devastating character assassination to suggest that a prominent citizen has purchased Brazilian genetic manipulation for themselves or their offspring. (And of course, more than a few of them have, very discreetly, done just that. Brazilian doctors consider Turkish money as good as anyone else's.)
Moral:+++++
World Opinion: +++
Economy: ++++++
Technology: +++++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: +
Large Reserve: Greatly increases defensive military rating.
Diversity: Increases offensive espionage infiltration rating.
Open Society: Decreases defensive espionage infiltration rating.
Genetic Manipulation: This country has excellent medical tech.
Loose Control: Unpopular government edicts may be ignored.
The Nipponese Technocratic Commune (kedcoleman)History
Early in the 21st century the nation of Japan completed the first of several space-based solar power collectors, microwaving energy to the surface. With the declining supply of fossil fuels and high demand for alternative sources of energy, Japan became resource-heavy almost over night. Coupled with their already strong technology industries, they became the economic powerhouse of the pacific rim.
In 2028 the newly-formed Technocratic Party won a landslide election on a platform based on expansion of their solar power systems, reducing government bloat and corruption and an isolationist foreign policy.
During the Sino-American war of 2031-37 they remained officially neutral. In reality they covertly supplied Chinese forces with American naval intelligence and facilitated their offensive activities in the pacific. When the tides began to turn on the Chinese, the Japanese government switched sides and began aiding the American forces, even so far as allowing use of their bases as staging grounds for attacks on Chinese targets. In retaliation, in the last days of the war, the Chinese launched a series of surprise bombing runs over Japan. Many urban centres were decimated and their infrastructure was shattered.
In the aftermath, with American foreign aid, the Japanese rebuilt and radically restructured their governmental structure. Dissolving the parlaimentary democracy, the ruling Technocratic Party instated a form of libertarian communism based around a national computer network, doing away with representative democracy, instead allowing every citizen to vote on all matters. A council was to be elected in every region, and one on a national level, to oversee this network and ensure legitimacy of all resolutions.
During the fallout of the war, the newly-made NTC took control of the southern Korean penisula, as well as the territory surrounding Vladivostok, formerly in Russia. In 2103 the NTC finished construction of a 20 000 square kilometre artificial island in the Sea of Japan. This island houses the central servers for the nations networks as well as vast receiver arrays for their orbital solar receivers.
Today, the NTC has re-emerged as a technological and economic power in the east. Their society values education and technology above all else/ Higher education is free and encouraged for all. The vast majority of citizens are highly computer-savvy.
The NTC space program is small but highly trained and effective. They have a sizeable fleet of satellites in orbit, many of which supply their solar power arrays, heavily defended, and a smallish space station that serves double duty as a scientific outpost and orbital defense system.
The NTC military is comparatively small, focusing on an advanced navy, and a small amount of highly-trained cybernetically enhanced elite soldiers. They have also been fielding immense suits of power armour capable of land air and sea actions.
Religion
The NTC is officially an atheist nation, though a small percentage still adhere to various religions (buddhism, shinto, etc). Religions are subtly looked down on in NTC culture as backwards or foolish.
Strengths
Major economic clout, their orbital solar arrays provide power for much of the region around the NTC, and their advanced technologies are prized around the world. Their military is small but efficient and armed with bleeding-edge technology. Relatively large and strong naval forces. Highly educated and technologically aware citizenry. Unparalleled digital espionage and counter-espionage.
Weaknesses
Small number of military units outside of naval forces. Reliant on outside sources for many resources. The vast majority of political decisions are made by the populace. Insular and isolationist policies make the NTC weak in foreign espionage.
P.A.C. : Moderately cold. The P.A.C. snubbed the NTC's invitation to join the Commune during their restructuring following the war. The Commune also disapproves of their slow, bloated government structure. They are wary of their rival naval forces. Trade continues despite the tensions.
TGCP: NTC greatly admires the technogical savvy and research conducted by this arctic group. Their adherence to science and knowledge resonates wityh the Commune's own.
Europe: NTC respects the Union's technological abilities and atheistic tendencies but looks down on their cumbersome bureaucracy. Strong trade and diplomatic ties.
The Sublime Turkish State: Diplomatic relations between the Commune and Turkey are tense, to say the least. NTC disapproves of their monarchistic government, which appears to border on theocracy (though it isn't, simply how it may appear to the outside) and the appearance of imperialist expansionism. NTC retains the bare minimum of ties to this nation out of respect for the European union's alliance with them.
Australia: NTC isn't quite sure just how to deal with Australia. On the one hand, they are a theocratic nation seemingly at cultural odds with the NTCs own goals. On the other, the belief of their 'religion' seems on some levels to be a greatly misguided path much like the NTC's beliefs. Diplomacy is cautious.
Moral:+++++
World Opinion: ++++
Economy: ++++++
Technology: +++++++
Espionage: ++
Military: ++++++
Naval Forces: Although housing a powerful navy, an attack reaching land will be met with relatively little resistance.
Import Reliant: The country depends on imports from other countries.
Computer Savvy: The vast majority of this country’s people understand and can use computers well. Consequentially, they gain a large espionage bonus to digital espionage.
Voting: Almost all decisions are made by the populace.
The Great Computer Project (Emperor Demonking)Territory: Bear Island
Background: Twenty years ago an eccentric billionaire formed The Great Computer Project to create a super computer. In order to work alone and not trespassed upon, the billionaire bought some land in the Artic. It was there that they first put builders in order to create the self-sustaining buildings to house the computers and scientists.
15 years ago the scientists were shipped in. 10 years ago, TGCP declared its independence. TGCP doesn't import much and its exports are only computer software.
Strengths: TGCP is famed for its brilliance at speculation and gambling giving TGCP a very healthy income. The people that live in TGCP are also very happy about it. TGCP also has a good Internet espionage.
Weaknesses: TGCP has little public opinion. TGCP also has a very low population. It also has an incredibly small army.
People:
James Lockheart: Never seen and also appears to have only existed for five years. He leads TGCP and does so well.
John Linderman: Never seen, John controls TGCP's currency and is responsible for most of TGCP's profits.
Janice Larey: Never seen, a genius who is in charge of the R&D department.
Bob Byce; An eccentric billionaire and exceptionally charismatic person. Bob is the public face of the country.
Religion; Mostly atheists but with some Christians.
Moral:++++++
World Opinion: ++
Economy: ++++
Technology: +++++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: ++
Computer Savvy: The vast majority of this country’s people understand and can use computers well. Consequentially, they gain a large espionage bonus to digital espionage.
Great Minds: The majority of the population are scientists.
Speculatory Income: A large portion of the country’s income is based on luck.
The Refuge Of Geneva (RationalGoblin)When all of Europe (sans Russia) entered the EU, the Swiss were enraged. Millions left, claiming that the EU were now just another power bloc seeking to dominate all nations, and that they had created a puppet government to force the Swiss into becoming members of the EU.
The Swiss refuges (including vastly rich banking executives) fled to Tunisa and Algeria, pooling together their vast reserves of money, skills, and manpower, buying immense tracts of land (several hundred miles) along the coast.
Of course, many EU citizens moved into Switzerland to fill the gap left by the Swiss refuges, but not nearly enough for the Swiss to consider the new 'country' in the Alps to be truly Switzerland.
A few years after the total European domination of the EU, the Swiss formed a new country: the Refuge of Geneva, with Nicolaus Morris Escher as it's Councilor.
Councilor Escher forged the Refuge into a highly militarized, rich and fanatic state, devoted to gaining Switzerland from the EU's clutches, as well as the rest of the Alps and the region of Genoa, as insurance from the EU.
Under the leadership of the brilliant General Jakob Roth, the armed forces of Geneva is one of the largest, most skilled, and well-equipped militaries in the world. They are forever mobilized for battle, in case of invasion or rebellion.
Dr. Felix Zimmerman is the intelligent head of R&D for Geneva, and also the Economics Minister. His eccentricities belay his vast intelligence. The technologies of Geneva, while diminished somewhat by the exodus from the Alps, are still a force to be reckoned with. Evidence of this is the enrichment of Africa. Zimmerman's technologies have made wastelands, deserts, and unfertile hills alike flourish with life.
Socially and culuturally, the Genevans are from all parts of Switzerland, the Italian, French, and German parts all play a key in this new nation's culture, as well as a few million African citizens.
Immigrants are disliked in this fusion of Swiss and African cultures, but tolerated.
The mood of the people is frequently depressed, as, even though they work to fight and take back Switzerland, the Swiss cannot help but feel that they have lost their country for generations.
The Refuge's religions are what you might expect from an African/Swiss nation, with many Catholics, a sizable Protestant minority, and a few hundred thousand animists. The Refuge's government doesn't bother to regulate the religions, as it knows it needs all the manpower it can get.
An immensely strong economy, fueled by the need to economically dominate their rivals, African and Europeans alike. As well, the Genevans have exploited their natural resources easily, making their reserves very powerful.
A fantastic military, as ALL citizens are required by law to have combat training for at least two years. General Roth's leadership has also proved a boon. The Refuge's forces are well-equipped, massive, and have reasonably strong technological advantages.
Being Swiss, and having vast amounts of hidden resources, secrecy naturally comes to the Refuge, but with time, their skills have diminished, along with their openly hostile and friendly actions. Their Spy network is of an average composition.
While not the worst technology, the Refuge of Geneva do not have the best either. It is strictly middling.
As well, with the loss of their homeland to the EU, and their near-fanatic cries to take it back, with force if needs be, the Refuge does not enjoy a stellar world opinion. Their highly militarized society does not help matters any.
Morale, and the mood of the population is also low, as millions of displaced Swiss feel that a part of them has been lost forever with the loss of Switzerland to the EU.
Furthermore, the 'puppet' government of Switzerland directly works against the Genevans, spiting them at every turn. And the native African nations, even the ones that sold land to the Refuge, are brutal competitors against the Swiss.
And finally, though much of this has be made unimportant, there is still a distinct lack of infrastructure in the Refuge, as it is a new nation, only existing for ten years so far as a recognized faction. This slightly weakens many things within the Refuge.
Geneva is intrigued by The Sublime Turkish State, and sees the nation as a very possible ally, especially as the Turks have a vast amount of control in nearby nations. Would like to make deals with the Sultan.
The Refuge has a vast hatred for the European Union, and at best, seeks to be a competitor to the EU's bureaucracy. At worst, the Swiss call for a complete dissolution of the EU. Relations are tense, and bitter. However, the Genevan leadership seem open to deals with the EU AFTER Switzerland is reborn, and the power of the Union is weakened a bit.
So far, as in the past, the Swiss are neutral to all other factions, the Refuge's relative youth as a nation causing them to have no honest opinion on the factions yet. They approve of any steps taken against the EU, however.
EDIT: The Refuge of Geneva, has warm relations with Iberia, despite the nation belonging to the hated EU. They are open to many deals with the Portuguese/Spaniard/Moroccans. In fact, the Swiss are open to deals with many of the individual countries of the EU, simply not the EU itself and it's strongest backers.
Moral:+++
World Opinion: ++
Economy: ++++++++
Technology: ++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: ++++++++
Combat Training: Greatly increases the country’s defensive military rating.
New Nation: The country was only formed ten years ago.
Mobilized Military: Your military is always ready to move straight away.
Iberia (Falconer)Territory: Spain, Portugal, Morocco
Background: The economic crisis of 2090 caused widespread global turmoil; nations collapsed and reformed, borders changed, superpowers fell and rose. Europe was especially affected. It was only through the coordination and direction of the European Union that the nations of Europe eventually regained their full strength. A few changes had to be made here and there, a few territories changed hands, but overall it was back to business as usual.
One of the changes made was the uniting of Portugal and Spain into one nation: Iberia. While there were protests from Spanish and Portuguese leaders, the Union put sufficient pressure on them that the uniting of the two went about with little fuss. In time, the new nation of Iberia recovered from its economic depression, and in 2115 elected one Francisco Belasko as Head of State. Soon nicknamed "El Leon", for his rabble-rousing speeches, outspoken opinions, and overconfident nature, Belasko used his wide support to slowly build up his power as the leader of Iberia.
Strengths: A truly glorious intelligence agency, well-trained military forces, and high morale, as the government seems to be quite genuinely popular.
Weaknesses: Despite having fairly up-to-date technology, Iberia dedicates very few resources to R&D, simply purchasing the latest technology from its allies (or stealing it from its enemies). Furthermore, I can only imagine that the EU tires of Belasko's constant machinations. Their economy is stable, but not anything to brag about.
Religious Demographics: 65% Catholic, with a 20% Muslim minority, 10% Protestant, and 5% Nonreligious. Overall, there's much more pro-religious sentiment than in most of the Union.
Notable Figures:
Francisco "El Leon" Belasko-Iberia's current head of state. The man is best described as completely in love with power. He is a political genius, expert at manipulating politics both at home and within the European Union, enjoying the benefits of being in the EU while staving off most interference it might try to impose. Despite his status as near-dictator, he seems genuinely popular for his policies, due to his ability to "polish up" normally unfavorable resolutions and make his more dangerous critics conveniently disappear. Far from being a saint, though not quite a monster yet.
General Juan Belasko-Having climbed his way to the top of the military hierarchy through raw determination (as well as a bit of help from his older cousin), General Juan Belasko is a highly capable, if unorthodox, commander of the Iberian Armed Forces. He is well-known for his unusual tactics and his ability to use traditional military technology in unusual ways.
The Refuge of Geneva-While formally allying with it might strain relations with the rest of EU a little too much, there's no reason a few secret deals can't be made here and there. They've got cash and they need allies. We need cash, and we can give them an alliance. What's not to love?
The European Union-Iberia has an odd relationship with the EU. While it is a part of that organization, the Iberian government considers it little more than a tool to be used. It takes all the benefits of being a member, while it contributes very little to the overall organization, and uses its spies and sympathizers to influence policy while using political chicanery to avoid any laws or regulations they don't like. Thinks of the EU as an organization the way a con man thinks of the sucker he's ripping off.
The Great Computer Project-The Iberian government is very interested in this nation's computer tech. The Iberians would probably be willing to purchase new technologies outright, as long as the price isn't outrageous. Overall, there only seems to benefits to good relations here.
Moral:++++++
World Opinion: +++
Economy: ++++
Technology: +++++
Espionage: ++++++++
Military: ++++++
EU Member: This country is a member of the EU.
Powerful Enemy: One or more fairly powerful countries don’t like you.
The Pacific Atlantean Coalition (Greystone)Greystone
Name: P.A.C. (Pacific Atlantean Coalition)
Background: During the many years of war and trouble, the islands of the Phillipines, Malaysia, and Indonesia were in turmoil. The Chinese and several Western powers had attempted to bring their way of life to these islands to attempt to "modernize" the islands. During the war between US and China, the islands suffered as both sides used them as staging bases.
Well the Pacific islands people were tired of being oppressed. They banded together in a loose league of friendship, combining resources and money. They attracted several rogue scientists, who helped them perhaps the best.
The scientists created a series of underwater tunnels and bio-domes between the islands. They effectivly made a way to move resources and people when the monsoons came. They also erected far better ways to hold the islands together and new biotechnology to feed the huge populations.
Strengths: Incredibly high defense due to the extensive underwater structures that allow the people to defend themselves for practically all attacks. Moderate technology and trade. Strong mercantile navy and submarine force. Moral is also moderate.
Weaknesses: Lots of nonsense to get laws and such passed, as it is more a bunch of island states that have banded together. Still require some imports, and offensive technology outside of navy is almost nothing.
Head operatives:
Prime Minister Barack Sunarmo- A native of the Indonesian island of Java, he is a well-liked man known for his fairness and general ability to keep the states together. He has recently been pushing for more interatcion and less isolationism.
Supreme Commander Karl Romanov- Former Spetnatz commander of Russia, defected during the big war when he didn't agree with his country's size. He has recently been training the navy, and the Marines, of the country the proper way to fight a modern war.
Head of Expansion and Technology Drew Havens- Docter originating from the United States, now in charge of the country's science division, he has gone a long way to improve the country. Why he went rogue still remains unclear.
Intelligence Command Director- Sharon Dowari- The head of Intelligence is born of Malaysian mother and UK father. She is known as a ruthless hunter of traitors and subverts. She tends to keep tabs on many of the worlds powers due to paranoia.
Moral:++++
World Opinion: ++++
Economy: +++++
Technology: +++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: +++++++
Navy: The army is virtually all ships and subs.
Underwater Structures: Massive boost to defensive military rating.
The Republic of Novgorod (Murska)History: Russia, which had still been a powerful nation although overshadowed by both the USA and the rising China, had thought it's chance for greatness had come when the war between those two superpowers left both weakened while Russia, who had been secretly helping China until the war fortunes turned, at which point it cut all ties, had emerged from the war relatively unscathed, at least outwardly so. But there were rifts, many people thought they should have taken a much more active role in helping China. Russia's technology, government and social services were outdated in the quickly developing world and the last straw was when it's army, although large, was proven ineffective and inept in multiple small wars across the borders, which led to Russia losing territories and having to pay massive war reparations.
The Russian Federation splintered, and out of it emerged multiple smaller nations, which warred amongst each other a bit until the borders settled. The largest and most powerful of these new nations was the Republic of Novgorod which took the area just north of Moscow, the border being Volga at that point, and limiting to the Ural Mountains, the borders of Finland and the Arctic Sea.
Novgorod quickly began to modernize itself. Their economy flourished when the leadership started intelligently using the massive amounts of natural resources, building factories and using the revitalized economy to purchase the newest technologies. Faster than anyone could have predicted, Novgorod had emerged as a major world player from the ruins of the old Russia. They provided the EU with some lower-tech components for their space programme first but these have died down as the EU has advanced, while Novgorod has concentrated on the consolidation and stabilization of their own area.
The vast majority of the citizenry of Novgorod are either atheists(63%) or Orthodox Christians(35%) with small groups of other religions here and there.
Strengths: Massive amounts of natural resources, high morale for the citizenry has had the country advance during a short time from a desolate war-torn area to a prosperous nation. A high manufacturing capacity, produces a lot of electronic appliances and such for export, although doesn't have the most high-tech facilities. Has a quite large army and can mass-produce weaponry quickly in case of a war.
Weaknesses: Has to import high-tech from other nations. The army, while rather large, is supplied mostly with old Russian-era weaponry and updating it to meet modern standards has been slow. Their intelligence network is nothing special, although it does exist. It's mostly concentrated on the other nations of the old Russia, and to counterespionage.
Important people:
President Peter Bure - The leader of the nation. He has a lot of power and influence, and has used it to advance the prosperity of Novgorod. Seems to really have the good of his nation foremost in his mind, and is very popular.
Derek Komorov - The leader of the army of Novgorod, a gifted military strategist. Is mostly out of the public eye, very rarely seen in media or otherwise. Has mostly been preoccupied in modernizing the army and has sped up the process a lot recently.
Anna Sharova - The head scientist, a brilliant genius in the field of Quantum Physics who has pioneered many breakthroughs. Has recently been very quiet, and has never been much of a media person.
Mihail Rebikov - The Foreign Relations man of the nation, he's been nicknamed the Voice of Novgorod. He's an extremely skilled speaker, and is usually the face on the news when the Novgorodian government is involved.
Opinions on others: Novgorod has mostly indifferent relations with other nations, although they trade with Japan, EU and Brazil. Their relations with the other Russian nations aren't very warm, and they're quite neutral towards the Turks, without much contact. They dislike the US, who they view as environmental criminals, and for historical reasons as well.
Moral:++++++
World Opinion: ++++
Economy: ++++++
Technology: ++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: +++++
Production Facilities: The army’s weapons are outdated, but with a knock to the economy better weapons could be rolled out quickly.
Russian Fraction: Boosts espionage versus other Russian fractions.
Natural Resources: The Republic of Novgorod is rich in natural resources.
I bet most of them will be dead within a year.
Players The Confederacy of the States (Night Surgeon)Back ground: After the American Chinese war, a new President emerged after a land slide election. His name was Sigmund Eugene Reed. He was a prodigal doctor in the fields of physics, and mathmatics who had brought many a development to the proud country of America. However, he proved to be more then meets then eye, when he officaly closed all American boarders, after Anexing Canada, and crushing them in a swift, brutal, military conflict that ended in a thirty minuet battle that became known as the legendary "10 hour War". The secret behind the battle was Sigmunds BRILLIANT use of tactics, he out preformed, and out manuevered the Canadian generals at every step pushing his forces in at the speed that the motorized divisions could barely keep up with. However, tactics were not the only advantage that America had attained, they had developed in the past year a Stealth Suit that made the wearer invisible to the naked eye, and even managed to nullify motion sensors, giving them the ultimate in inflitrating. However, as their economy was nearly shut down over night by the world wide embargo, America now struggles to keep it's millitary up in the numbers, and until they can divine a solution they have cut down majorly on all spending including Social Security, and many Government Jobs are now Volunteer work. However, he managed to preserve the American way, and their rights through a secret pact with Germany which excluded them from the world wide Embargo, and allowed much needed resources to be funneled in under heavy watch. Over the years, much of Americas territory has become adabonded due to industrial pollution however, and though Americans promise that it can only get better Morale has been low, and the world opinion of this once great country has faltered as their non evironmentalist views have wracked the heartlands with desolation, and the world opinion grows dim. (Powerful, but slightly outdated millitary, GREAT Espionage, barely above ground economy, faltering morale, and low world opinion.)
Strengths: Powerful, but quickly outdating due to lack of alternative fuels available to them military, Powerful Espionage due to near perfect invisibility suits.
Weaknesses: Faltering Economy with the world basiclly shut out sans Germany, NO world opinion for anyone sans Germany, and a few Envrionmentalist Groups. Only decent morale despite maintaing many freedoms, and having a okay quality of life.
Head operatives:
Sigmund Reed :, President in these dim times (Indefinite period of Election due to the Elastic Clause in respect to the constitution.), brilliant commander in chief, and Doctor of Physics and Math.
Speaker of the House: Arthur Nye, A tall man with sandy brown hair, and hope filled hazel eyes. He's the kind of man you see on a poster that promotes hope. Professional PR man.
Secretary of Defense: Mikhail Klashkanov, desendant of the man who invented the gun for which his sur name represents, first Russian Secretary of Defense, and Doctor of Military Science. Currently spear heading a new military development of unsure ends.
Secretary of Envrionmental affiars: Nancy Dent, A older woman with graying hair, and a sweet smile. She spends most of her time off the job doing volunteer work around the community attempting to keep it clean enough to live in respectfully.
Moral:++++
World Opinion: +
Economy: +++
Technology: +++++
Espionage: ++++++++
Military: ++++++
Tactical Genius: The Confederacy's troops, when commanded by their leader, are unmatched tactically.
Invisibility Suits: You have stealth technology capable of making men invisible and almost undetectable. Improves your espionage when spying in open territory.
Hated By All: No-one likes you. :’(
The European Union (Wizard of the Coat)History
As China and America faced off in their war Europe swiftly fell into an economic crisis, with their investments in the States and their factories in China both being wasted in the all commanding war. Yet rather than falter and disintergrate, as political scolars thought they might, Europe banded together as a union of individual states. Swiftly the few eastern european countries that had not joined them now became members and the continen, sans Russia, was united in peace.
Overcoming hardships through knowledge the different European lands and their commisioners invested in fusion energy, abandoned a century earlier due to rising costs, and succeeded in making it a reality. With this extremely large energy resevoir their economy was rebooted and the second great project was undertaken, the conquest of space. As polution from fallout ravaged the world the Europeans believed it was only a matter of time before it would consume Earth. Soon colonies on Luna and deep space research stations on the moons of saturn and jupiter were established.
Europe it seemed was reaching for the stars, but kept mindfull of it's neighbours. Building a powerfull network of deterrents to keep foreigners and their problems out, using a variety of technological countermeasures. The European fortress is potent and awe inspiring, yet their offensive military is minimal as they do not want to be perceived as a theat.
Strength: master of technology with amongs other things deep space research stations, fledgeling lunar colonies and a highly educated population, self sufficient due to potent and extensive fusion powered economy with decent defensive military (high defence, low offence)
Weaknesses: Reclusive due to their closure to foreign citizens (high spy defence, but hardly any offense), Union decisions take time due to bureaucracy, population is rather indifferent to the government (don't care one way or the other, hard to change for better or worse)
Religions: Mainly liberal atheists with lingering remnants of islam (~10%) and christianity (~3%), though most people still restect liberal christian values they have lost faith long ago. Now mostly immigrants from africa (christians) and the arab world (islam) maintain their religions. Freedom of religion is in place, but religion is not allowed in public institutions.
Joris Dapper- President of the commission
An inspiring leade Joris has been a keen factor of the european reforms during his days as commissioner for Science and Research. Under his leadership the EU is further capitolising on this.
Heinrich Hanze - EU commisioner for Enterprise & Industry
Germany was still europe's main exporter and it was only natural for them to be given this position. Hanze is mainly charged with getting scientific advances to be used as innovative new business opportunities. He's exploring ways for colaboration with others, and seems interested in sharing Europe's vast technological knowledge with all mankind. Still he faces much oposition from Victoria, leaving Joris with a deciding vote on the matter.
Victoria Lyvtchen - EU commisionor for Research and Science
Together with Hanze and Joris she dominates European policy with the NET largest budget (agriculture, education and health have larger gross budgets). She's a former Kosmonaut experimenting with fusion in space, before becoming the first governer of the lunar colonies and after that commisioner for Research and Science when Joris Dapper vacated this seat.
CS -alliance-
Old allies, we owe them our unity. let's help them rebuild, but be carefull they don't abuse their power.
TSTS -alliance-
Old friends, why didn't we let them enter a century ago?
Brazil -friendly-
Wait, why did we place so many restrictions upon them. They are good people. Let's check with the office for...
<several weeks of bureacracy later> "I give up..."
Aussies -cool-
Good thing those zealots are far away. Still they have some very usefull resources!
Moral:++++
World Opinion: ++++
Economy: ++++++
Technology: ++++++++
Espionage: +
Military: ++
Closed Off: Increases defensive espionage and vastly increases defensive military ratings.
…In Space!: This nation has deep space research stations and even colonies on the Moon.
Bureaucracy: Major decisions take some time.
Multinational Organization: Made up of many smaller countries.
The Sublime Turkish State (Dersess)History: In September 23rd, 2014, in the Russian port city of Novorossiysk, a standoff between Russian Spetznaz forces and Georgian Nationalists was taking place for control of a large cargo freighter, one housing several high-yield atomic weapons. After several hours of back-and-forth fighting, the Russian forces took the ship and executed the remaining rebels. However, the Russo-Georgian War was just getting underway.
After three years of fighting, Russian forces began moving into Bat'umi, a town on the Georgian and Turkish border. Many Georgians fled into Turkey to escape the destruction of the war, including many high-ranking members of the Georgian military. The Russians demanded their release into Russian custody, which, after much deliberation, the Turks refused. The Russian military began marching on Turkish soil January 14th, 2018, the inauguration of the new Turkish President, Mehmed Heyreddin. His first task as president was to organize a defense against one of the most militarily powerful countries in the world.
As compulsory military service is required of all Turkish males, hundreds of thousands of men took up arms to defend their homes. Informally called "Janissaries," by their detractors, the Turkish armed forces were able to fight a brilliant defensive war which cost them a small fraction of what it cost the Russians. Also, strong cultural ties between many Middle Eastern and Caucus nations formed a strong coalition against the Russian aggression that would help form the foundation of a new Turkish state.
However, the massive Russian army was able to launch subsequent attacks on just about any close nation that sided with the Turks, and after five years of fighting, the Turkish morale was beginning to break. The Turks needed a miracle if they were to win this war. That would come on April 29th, 2023, when an unnamed Captain and his tank squadrons came across a group of 4 Russian Infantry divisions and 6 Russian Armor divisions moving on the capital city of Ankara. Doing the best they could, the Turkish tanks prevented the Russians from moving into the city while allowing the citizens of Ankara to evacuate. After 30 hours of fighting, the Russians-a force of almost 50,000-surrendered to the Turkish force of 400. The Russian Prime Minister immediately sued for peace made billions of dollars in reparations to the Turks. President Heyreddin, now a cultural and political icon of the Turkish state, used the money to fund reformations of just about every cumbersome or unwieldy aspect of the Turkish government, education, and military systems. In the course of 3 years, not only had Turkey rebuilt, it had become one of the most economically, politically, and militarily powerful nations on the planet, all thanks to President Heyreddin. As the Turkish state began to thrive, smaller states surrounding it wished to share in its prosperity and might, to which Heyreddin agreed. Eventually, it had subsumed Greece, many of the Balkan nations, the Caucus nations, Egypt, and many Middle Eastern nations. Some of the more proud ones (such as Iran) remained independent, however took the suggestions and ideals of the Turkish state very close to the heart in exchange for aid.
They people had come to trust Heyreddin, and thus, his title as president was removed, and he was named Sultan of the new Turkish state. The Heyreddin dynasty still lasts to his day.
Strengths: An extremely powerful military thanks to cutting edge military and medical technology, high morale, powerhouse economy.
Weaknesses: A relatively low world opinion, low espionage, lacking technology in day-to-day use.
The Players:
Suleiman III--The Sultan of the Turkish State, he is a jolly man well-loved by his subjects.
Is'mael al-Hussad Pasha--Aged leader of the Turkish armed forces and the First Janissary (a title meaning he has complete control over the entire Janissary corps), Is'mael has proven himself numerous times both as a field commander and as the Sultan's bodyguard. He is currently looking for a protege so he can retire.
Dr. Konstantina Cocles--A brilliant doctor of engineering, she is in charge of the State-sponsored Research and Development laboratories.
Roxelana Livoska--Born a commoner, the wife of the Sultan has no true power in the government, however she voices her opinions about the affairs of the people, which her husband and his advisers take very seriously.
Religious Beliefs: A majority of people subscribe to Islam, and it is considered by outsiders as the state religion (there is none). Numbers of Jewish and Christian centers thrive around Jerusalem, and more are scattered throughout the areas bordering Russia and Europe. In Persia, Zoroastrianism is undergoing a resurgence, but their numbers are nowhere near even the amounts of Christians or Jews. Other beliefs are present, but rarely seen.
Moral:+++++++
World Opinion: +++
Economy: +++++++
Technology: +++++++
Espionage: ++
Military: +++++++
Military Tech: Although the military and medical technology is high, technology for everyday use is lacking.
Powerful Enemy: One or more fairly powerful countries really don’t like you.
The Confederation of States: "The Americans? What's to say? It's not their fault that they're led by a domineering mad-man who launched an unprovoked war on a neighboring nation. Most of them are good people. They just...are misguided."
The European Union: "They helped us out a bit during the War, and they've done right by us since then. I'd like to think we've done the same."
Brazil: "Strange place...strange place indeed. Think they can go about fixing every slight flaw with their science. If you ask me, they play at godhood too much for their own good. Still, they've been good trade partners over the years, so no real sense in rocking the boat there."
Australia: "A whole nation of crazies, them. Sure, they seem like they have a good life, but when a crisis rears its head, you can bet the **** will hit the fan. Badly."
Nipponese Technocratic Commune: "We've had a few of those Japanese doctors helping with our research, from what I understand, and vice-versa. Not to mention they're a fairly prickly thorn in the Great Bear's side. I hear they don't like us too much over there. Probably more than a little jealous, but who wouldn't be?"
TGCP: "Don't trust them. Live up the on their ice blocks, doing goodness-knows what. I'm all one for technological improvement, but they may pose a serious threat to us all one day. When that time comes, we'll put them down like a rabid hound."
Refuge of Geneva: "Shame they can't get along with their old neighbors. They're a proud people, to be sure. It'll probably get the best of them in the long run."
Iberia: "I have a feeling that whole place might be a bit of a powder keg. I mean, they're still a part of the EU, but I don't think they'll be content that way forever. They'll want to break away, and when that happens, it won't do so quietly."
P.A.C.: "As far as I'm concerned, they don't get along with the Russians. That makes them good people. I hear we may start doing some heavy trading with them soon enough."
The Republic of Novgorod: "They're Russians. Doesn't matter how frilly of a dress you put it in, a bear is a bear. Turn your back on them for one second, and you'll pay for it with your life."
Brazil (ttp?)Brazil remained neutral during the U.S.-Chinese war, and became a popular refuge for dissidents and refugees from both sides. This brought them a strong influx of scientific talent, which together with their advantageous launch site on the equator, allowed them to briefly seize the forefront of space exploration in the post-war years. The more organized economy of the European Union has since eclipsed the Brazilian space program, although the launch site at Alcantara still sees heavy use for commercial low-orbit applications.
Where Brazil currently shines is in the life sciences. The country boasts many of the world's foremost geneticists, some home-trained, others attracted by the government's free-wheeling attitude toward genetic experimentation. The economy receives a significant boost from wealthy foreign citizens traveling to Brazil for cutting-edge medical treatment, or more quietly, for genetic manipulation which would be illegal elsewhere. Thanks to genetically engineered crops tailored for the equatorial rain forest climate, Brazil has also become one of the world's major food exporters.
Socially and culturally, the nation is an iconoclastic mixture of scientists, environmentalists, farmers, hedonists, traditionalists, resurgent indigenous cultures, and eccentrics of all stripes. Immigrants from all over the world rub elbows with locals. First-rate education and medical care are seen as the birthright of every Brazilian, and people tolerate enough taxes to fund these things, but beyond that the government struggles to exert even a loose control over everyday life.
The military is rudimentary at best, with many reservists but almost no standing army. The large reserve comes in handy at times of natural or human-made disaster, and people will mobilize without hesitation to defend against outside aggression, as recent border skirmishes with the Greater Peruvian Federation have demonstrated. But the prospect of Brazil ever projecting military power beyond its own borders is almost laughable.
Brazil's waves of immigration have brought every sort of religion and lack thereof to the country, but it remains majority Catholic, with Protestantism, Islam, and Neo-Paganism among the most popular minority religions.
Brazil's strain of Catholicism, though, is a highly independent one, to the immense frustration of the Vatican. They cheerfully ignore Papal edicts which they find outdated or irrelevant (including everything the Vatican has ever had to say about medicine and genetic engineering) and Brazilian Archbishops have twice gone so far as to elect an alternate Pope of their own in place of an especially disliked conservative. Through all of this, Brazilian Catholics continue to see themselves as paragons of their religion, and wonder when the Popes will finally grow up and see things their way.
The government, of course, keeps their noses out of everyone's religion as long as no overly messy human sacrifices are taking place in the streets.
Good natural resources and lucrative exports of food, medicine, and medical technology.
Strong scientific community in general, and unsurpassed in genetic engineering.
Well educated population with diverse backgrounds and skills.
Diverse population makes it easy to infiltrate other nations. Brazil will also have citizens who have lived in the other country and can blend in easily. These same immigrants may also have contacts still in the home country who are planning to defect soon to Brazil (or who can be bribed by a Brazilian medical miracle needed for themselves or a loved one.)
Loose political control; people not likely to obey government edicts they disagree with.
Mediocre military; reserves give a decent defensive capability, but almost no capacity to invade or occupy a rival. Significant pacifist streak in population.
The same open, cosmopolitan society that makes it easy for Brazilian spies to infiltrate other countries, also help foreign spies to infiltrate Brazil.
Foreign policy is likely to be influenced by the citizens' ideals and prejudices, rather than by purely practical considerations.
Confederation of the States:
Cold to downright hostile. Brazil exports food to the States, but most Brazilians regard the Confederation's environmental policies as criminal, and the President as a dangerous lunatic. Canadian loyalist refugees have found Brazil to be fertile ground for stirring up opposition to the States, and several terrorist attacks against Confederate interests in Canada are thought to have been funded by weathy Brazilian citizens.
European Union:
Technological rivals, but basically civil relations with highly interdependent economies. Brazil's research establishment relies heavily on European-made computers and other scientific equipment, while their exports of food and medicine help sustain Europe's dense population. Brazilian citizens do resent the closed nature of European society, while a typical European finds Brazil's freewheeling culture to be almost childish.
Sublime Turkish State:
Brazil and Turkey regard each other with mutual suspicion, each bewildered by the other's social norms. Strong and mutually benefical trade relations have eased the tension slightly, but the underlying distrust remains. In Turkey, it is considered a devastating character assassination to suggest that a prominent citizen has purchased Brazilian genetic manipulation for themselves or their offspring. (And of course, more than a few of them have, very discreetly, done just that. Brazilian doctors consider Turkish money as good as anyone else's.)
Moral:+++++
World Opinion: +++
Economy: ++++++
Technology: +++++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: +
Large Reserve: Greatly increases defensive military rating.
Diversity: Increases offensive espionage infiltration rating.
Open Society: Decreases defensive espionage infiltration rating.
Genetic Manipulation: This country has excellent medical tech.
Loose Control: Unpopular government edicts may be ignored.
The Nipponese Technocratic Commune (kedcoleman)History
Early in the 21st century the nation of Japan completed the first of several space-based solar power collectors, microwaving energy to the surface. With the declining supply of fossil fuels and high demand for alternative sources of energy, Japan became resource-heavy almost over night. Coupled with their already strong technology industries, they became the economic powerhouse of the pacific rim.
In 2028 the newly-formed Technocratic Party won a landslide election on a platform based on expansion of their solar power systems, reducing government bloat and corruption and an isolationist foreign policy.
During the Sino-American war of 2031-37 they remained officially neutral. In reality they covertly supplied Chinese forces with American naval intelligence and facilitated their offensive activities in the pacific. When the tides began to turn on the Chinese, the Japanese government switched sides and began aiding the American forces, even so far as allowing use of their bases as staging grounds for attacks on Chinese targets. In retaliation, in the last days of the war, the Chinese launched a series of surprise bombing runs over Japan. Many urban centres were decimated and their infrastructure was shattered.
In the aftermath, with American foreign aid, the Japanese rebuilt and radically restructured their governmental structure. Dissolving the parlaimentary democracy, the ruling Technocratic Party instated a form of libertarian communism based around a national computer network, doing away with representative democracy, instead allowing every citizen to vote on all matters. A council was to be elected in every region, and one on a national level, to oversee this network and ensure legitimacy of all resolutions.
During the fallout of the war, the newly-made NTC took control of the southern Korean penisula, as well as the territory surrounding Vladivostok, formerly in Russia. In 2103 the NTC finished construction of a 20 000 square kilometre artificial island in the Sea of Japan. This island houses the central servers for the nations networks as well as vast receiver arrays for their orbital solar receivers.
Today, the NTC has re-emerged as a technological and economic power in the east. Their society values education and technology above all else/ Higher education is free and encouraged for all. The vast majority of citizens are highly computer-savvy.
The NTC space program is small but highly trained and effective. They have a sizeable fleet of satellites in orbit, many of which supply their solar power arrays, heavily defended, and a smallish space station that serves double duty as a scientific outpost and orbital defense system.
The NTC military is comparatively small, focusing on an advanced navy, and a small amount of highly-trained cybernetically enhanced elite soldiers. They have also been fielding immense suits of power armour capable of land air and sea actions.
Religion
The NTC is officially an atheist nation, though a small percentage still adhere to various religions (buddhism, shinto, etc). Religions are subtly looked down on in NTC culture as backwards or foolish.
Strengths
Major economic clout, their orbital solar arrays provide power for much of the region around the NTC, and their advanced technologies are prized around the world. Their military is small but efficient and armed with bleeding-edge technology. Relatively large and strong naval forces. Highly educated and technologically aware citizenry. Unparalleled digital espionage and counter-espionage.
Weaknesses
Small number of military units outside of naval forces. Reliant on outside sources for many resources. The vast majority of political decisions are made by the populace. Insular and isolationist policies make the NTC weak in foreign espionage.
P.A.C. : Moderately cold. The P.A.C. snubbed the NTC's invitation to join the Commune during their restructuring following the war. The Commune also disapproves of their slow, bloated government structure. They are wary of their rival naval forces. Trade continues despite the tensions.
TGCP: NTC greatly admires the technogical savvy and research conducted by this arctic group. Their adherence to science and knowledge resonates wityh the Commune's own.
Europe: NTC respects the Union's technological abilities and atheistic tendencies but looks down on their cumbersome bureaucracy. Strong trade and diplomatic ties.
The Sublime Turkish State: Diplomatic relations between the Commune and Turkey are tense, to say the least. NTC disapproves of their monarchistic government, which appears to border on theocracy (though it isn't, simply how it may appear to the outside) and the appearance of imperialist expansionism. NTC retains the bare minimum of ties to this nation out of respect for the European union's alliance with them.
Australia: NTC isn't quite sure just how to deal with Australia. On the one hand, they are a theocratic nation seemingly at cultural odds with the NTCs own goals. On the other, the belief of their 'religion' seems on some levels to be a greatly misguided path much like the NTC's beliefs. Diplomacy is cautious.
Moral:+++++
World Opinion: ++++
Economy: ++++++
Technology: +++++++
Espionage: ++
Military: ++++++
Naval Forces: Although housing a powerful navy, an attack reaching land will be met with relatively little resistance.
Import Reliant: The country depends on imports from other countries.
Computer Savvy: The vast majority of this country’s people understand and can use computers well. Consequentially, they gain a large espionage bonus to digital espionage.
Voting: Almost all decisions are made by the populace.
The Great Computer Project (Emperor Demonking)Territory: Bear Island
Background: Twenty years ago an eccentric billionaire formed The Great Computer Project to create a super computer. In order to work alone and not trespassed upon, the billionaire bought some land in the Artic. It was there that they first put builders in order to create the self-sustaining buildings to house the computers and scientists.
15 years ago the scientists were shipped in. 10 years ago, TGCP declared its independence. TGCP doesn't import much and its exports are only computer software.
Strengths: TGCP is famed for its brilliance at speculation and gambling giving TGCP a very healthy income. The people that live in TGCP are also very happy about it. TGCP also has a good Internet espionage.
Weaknesses: TGCP has little public opinion. TGCP also has a very low population. It also has an incredibly small army.
People:
James Lockheart: Never seen and also appears to have only existed for five years. He leads TGCP and does so well.
John Linderman: Never seen, John controls TGCP's currency and is responsible for most of TGCP's profits.
Janice Larey: Never seen, a genius who is in charge of the R&D department.
Bob Byce; An eccentric billionaire and exceptionally charismatic person. Bob is the public face of the country.
Religion; Mostly atheists but with some Christians.
Moral:++++++
World Opinion: ++
Economy: ++++
Technology: +++++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: ++
Computer Savvy: The vast majority of this country’s people understand and can use computers well. Consequentially, they gain a large espionage bonus to digital espionage.
Great Minds: The majority of the population are scientists.
Speculatory Income: A large portion of the country’s income is based on luck.
The Refuge Of Geneva (RationalGoblin)When all of Europe (sans Russia) entered the EU, the Swiss were enraged. Millions left, claiming that the EU were now just another power bloc seeking to dominate all nations, and that they had created a puppet government to force the Swiss into becoming members of the EU.
The Swiss refuges (including vastly rich banking executives) fled to Tunisa and Algeria, pooling together their vast reserves of money, skills, and manpower, buying immense tracts of land (several hundred miles) along the coast.
Of course, many EU citizens moved into Switzerland to fill the gap left by the Swiss refuges, but not nearly enough for the Swiss to consider the new 'country' in the Alps to be truly Switzerland.
A few years after the total European domination of the EU, the Swiss formed a new country: the Refuge of Geneva, with Nicolaus Morris Escher as it's Councilor.
Councilor Escher forged the Refuge into a highly militarized, rich and fanatic state, devoted to gaining Switzerland from the EU's clutches, as well as the rest of the Alps and the region of Genoa, as insurance from the EU.
Under the leadership of the brilliant General Jakob Roth, the armed forces of Geneva is one of the largest, most skilled, and well-equipped militaries in the world. They are forever mobilized for battle, in case of invasion or rebellion.
Dr. Felix Zimmerman is the intelligent head of R&D for Geneva, and also the Economics Minister. His eccentricities belay his vast intelligence. The technologies of Geneva, while diminished somewhat by the exodus from the Alps, are still a force to be reckoned with. Evidence of this is the enrichment of Africa. Zimmerman's technologies have made wastelands, deserts, and unfertile hills alike flourish with life.
Socially and culuturally, the Genevans are from all parts of Switzerland, the Italian, French, and German parts all play a key in this new nation's culture, as well as a few million African citizens.
Immigrants are disliked in this fusion of Swiss and African cultures, but tolerated.
The mood of the people is frequently depressed, as, even though they work to fight and take back Switzerland, the Swiss cannot help but feel that they have lost their country for generations.
The Refuge's religions are what you might expect from an African/Swiss nation, with many Catholics, a sizable Protestant minority, and a few hundred thousand animists. The Refuge's government doesn't bother to regulate the religions, as it knows it needs all the manpower it can get.
An immensely strong economy, fueled by the need to economically dominate their rivals, African and Europeans alike. As well, the Genevans have exploited their natural resources easily, making their reserves very powerful.
A fantastic military, as ALL citizens are required by law to have combat training for at least two years. General Roth's leadership has also proved a boon. The Refuge's forces are well-equipped, massive, and have reasonably strong technological advantages.
Being Swiss, and having vast amounts of hidden resources, secrecy naturally comes to the Refuge, but with time, their skills have diminished, along with their openly hostile and friendly actions. Their Spy network is of an average composition.
While not the worst technology, the Refuge of Geneva do not have the best either. It is strictly middling.
As well, with the loss of their homeland to the EU, and their near-fanatic cries to take it back, with force if needs be, the Refuge does not enjoy a stellar world opinion. Their highly militarized society does not help matters any.
Morale, and the mood of the population is also low, as millions of displaced Swiss feel that a part of them has been lost forever with the loss of Switzerland to the EU.
Furthermore, the 'puppet' government of Switzerland directly works against the Genevans, spiting them at every turn. And the native African nations, even the ones that sold land to the Refuge, are brutal competitors against the Swiss.
And finally, though much of this has be made unimportant, there is still a distinct lack of infrastructure in the Refuge, as it is a new nation, only existing for ten years so far as a recognized faction. This slightly weakens many things within the Refuge.
Geneva is intrigued by The Sublime Turkish State, and sees the nation as a very possible ally, especially as the Turks have a vast amount of control in nearby nations. Would like to make deals with the Sultan.
The Refuge has a vast hatred for the European Union, and at best, seeks to be a competitor to the EU's bureaucracy. At worst, the Swiss call for a complete dissolution of the EU. Relations are tense, and bitter. However, the Genevan leadership seem open to deals with the EU AFTER Switzerland is reborn, and the power of the Union is weakened a bit.
So far, as in the past, the Swiss are neutral to all other factions, the Refuge's relative youth as a nation causing them to have no honest opinion on the factions yet. They approve of any steps taken against the EU, however.
EDIT: The Refuge of Geneva, has warm relations with Iberia, despite the nation belonging to the hated EU. They are open to many deals with the Portuguese/Spaniard/Moroccans. In fact, the Swiss are open to deals with many of the individual countries of the EU, simply not the EU itself and it's strongest backers.
Moral:+++
World Opinion: ++
Economy: ++++++++
Technology: ++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: ++++++++
Combat Training: Greatly increases the country’s defensive military rating.
New Nation: The country was only formed ten years ago.
Mobilized Military: Your military is always ready to move straight away.
Iberia (Falconer)Territory: Spain, Portugal, Morocco
Background: The economic crisis of 2090 caused widespread global turmoil; nations collapsed and reformed, borders changed, superpowers fell and rose. Europe was especially affected. It was only through the coordination and direction of the European Union that the nations of Europe eventually regained their full strength. A few changes had to be made here and there, a few territories changed hands, but overall it was back to business as usual.
One of the changes made was the uniting of Portugal and Spain into one nation: Iberia. While there were protests from Spanish and Portuguese leaders, the Union put sufficient pressure on them that the uniting of the two went about with little fuss. In time, the new nation of Iberia recovered from its economic depression, and in 2115 elected one Francisco Belasko as Head of State. Soon nicknamed "El Leon", for his rabble-rousing speeches, outspoken opinions, and overconfident nature, Belasko used his wide support to slowly build up his power as the leader of Iberia.
Strengths: A truly glorious intelligence agency, well-trained military forces, and high morale, as the government seems to be quite genuinely popular.
Weaknesses: Despite having fairly up-to-date technology, Iberia dedicates very few resources to R&D, simply purchasing the latest technology from its allies (or stealing it from its enemies). Furthermore, I can only imagine that the EU tires of Belasko's constant machinations. Their economy is stable, but not anything to brag about.
Religious Demographics: 65% Catholic, with a 20% Muslim minority, 10% Protestant, and 5% Nonreligious. Overall, there's much more pro-religious sentiment than in most of the Union.
Notable Figures:
Francisco "El Leon" Belasko-Iberia's current head of state. The man is best described as completely in love with power. He is a political genius, expert at manipulating politics both at home and within the European Union, enjoying the benefits of being in the EU while staving off most interference it might try to impose. Despite his status as near-dictator, he seems genuinely popular for his policies, due to his ability to "polish up" normally unfavorable resolutions and make his more dangerous critics conveniently disappear. Far from being a saint, though not quite a monster yet.
General Juan Belasko-Having climbed his way to the top of the military hierarchy through raw determination (as well as a bit of help from his older cousin), General Juan Belasko is a highly capable, if unorthodox, commander of the Iberian Armed Forces. He is well-known for his unusual tactics and his ability to use traditional military technology in unusual ways.
The Refuge of Geneva-While formally allying with it might strain relations with the rest of EU a little too much, there's no reason a few secret deals can't be made here and there. They've got cash and they need allies. We need cash, and we can give them an alliance. What's not to love?
The European Union-Iberia has an odd relationship with the EU. While it is a part of that organization, the Iberian government considers it little more than a tool to be used. It takes all the benefits of being a member, while it contributes very little to the overall organization, and uses its spies and sympathizers to influence policy while using political chicanery to avoid any laws or regulations they don't like. Thinks of the EU as an organization the way a con man thinks of the sucker he's ripping off.
The Great Computer Project-The Iberian government is very interested in this nation's computer tech. The Iberians would probably be willing to purchase new technologies outright, as long as the price isn't outrageous. Overall, there only seems to benefits to good relations here.
Moral:++++++
World Opinion: +++
Economy: ++++
Technology: +++++
Espionage: ++++++++
Military: ++++++
EU Member: This country is a member of the EU.
Powerful Enemy: One or more fairly powerful countries don’t like you.
The Pacific Atlantean Coalition (Greystone)Greystone
Name: P.A.C. (Pacific Atlantean Coalition)
Background: During the many years of war and trouble, the islands of the Phillipines, Malaysia, and Indonesia were in turmoil. The Chinese and several Western powers had attempted to bring their way of life to these islands to attempt to "modernize" the islands. During the war between US and China, the islands suffered as both sides used them as staging bases.
Well the Pacific islands people were tired of being oppressed. They banded together in a loose league of friendship, combining resources and money. They attracted several rogue scientists, who helped them perhaps the best.
The scientists created a series of underwater tunnels and bio-domes between the islands. They effectivly made a way to move resources and people when the monsoons came. They also erected far better ways to hold the islands together and new biotechnology to feed the huge populations.
Strengths: Incredibly high defense due to the extensive underwater structures that allow the people to defend themselves for practically all attacks. Moderate technology and trade. Strong mercantile navy and submarine force. Moral is also moderate.
Weaknesses: Lots of nonsense to get laws and such passed, as it is more a bunch of island states that have banded together. Still require some imports, and offensive technology outside of navy is almost nothing.
Head operatives:
Prime Minister Barack Sunarmo- A native of the Indonesian island of Java, he is a well-liked man known for his fairness and general ability to keep the states together. He has recently been pushing for more interatcion and less isolationism.
Supreme Commander Karl Romanov- Former Spetnatz commander of Russia, defected during the big war when he didn't agree with his country's size. He has recently been training the navy, and the Marines, of the country the proper way to fight a modern war.
Head of Expansion and Technology Drew Havens- Docter originating from the United States, now in charge of the country's science division, he has gone a long way to improve the country. Why he went rogue still remains unclear.
Intelligence Command Director- Sharon Dowari- The head of Intelligence is born of Malaysian mother and UK father. She is known as a ruthless hunter of traitors and subverts. She tends to keep tabs on many of the worlds powers due to paranoia.
Moral:++++
World Opinion: ++++
Economy: +++++
Technology: +++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: +++++++
Navy: The army is virtually all ships and subs.
Underwater Structures: Massive boost to defensive military rating.
The Republic of Novgorod (Murska)History: Russia, which had still been a powerful nation although overshadowed by both the USA and the rising China, had thought it's chance for greatness had come when the war between those two superpowers left both weakened while Russia, who had been secretly helping China until the war fortunes turned, at which point it cut all ties, had emerged from the war relatively unscathed, at least outwardly so. But there were rifts, many people thought they should have taken a much more active role in helping China. Russia's technology, government and social services were outdated in the quickly developing world and the last straw was when it's army, although large, was proven ineffective and inept in multiple small wars across the borders, which led to Russia losing territories and having to pay massive war reparations.
The Russian Federation splintered, and out of it emerged multiple smaller nations, which warred amongst each other a bit until the borders settled. The largest and most powerful of these new nations was the Republic of Novgorod which took the area just north of Moscow, the border being Volga at that point, and limiting to the Ural Mountains, the borders of Finland and the Arctic Sea.
Novgorod quickly began to modernize itself. Their economy flourished when the leadership started intelligently using the massive amounts of natural resources, building factories and using the revitalized economy to purchase the newest technologies. Faster than anyone could have predicted, Novgorod had emerged as a major world player from the ruins of the old Russia. They provided the EU with some lower-tech components for their space programme first but these have died down as the EU has advanced, while Novgorod has concentrated on the consolidation and stabilization of their own area.
The vast majority of the citizenry of Novgorod are either atheists(63%) or Orthodox Christians(35%) with small groups of other religions here and there.
Strengths: Massive amounts of natural resources, high morale for the citizenry has had the country advance during a short time from a desolate war-torn area to a prosperous nation. A high manufacturing capacity, produces a lot of electronic appliances and such for export, although doesn't have the most high-tech facilities. Has a quite large army and can mass-produce weaponry quickly in case of a war.
Weaknesses: Has to import high-tech from other nations. The army, while rather large, is supplied mostly with old Russian-era weaponry and updating it to meet modern standards has been slow. Their intelligence network is nothing special, although it does exist. It's mostly concentrated on the other nations of the old Russia, and to counterespionage.
Important people:
President Peter Bure - The leader of the nation. He has a lot of power and influence, and has used it to advance the prosperity of Novgorod. Seems to really have the good of his nation foremost in his mind, and is very popular.
Derek Komorov - The leader of the army of Novgorod, a gifted military strategist. Is mostly out of the public eye, very rarely seen in media or otherwise. Has mostly been preoccupied in modernizing the army and has sped up the process a lot recently.
Anna Sharova - The head scientist, a brilliant genius in the field of Quantum Physics who has pioneered many breakthroughs. Has recently been very quiet, and has never been much of a media person.
Mihail Rebikov - The Foreign Relations man of the nation, he's been nicknamed the Voice of Novgorod. He's an extremely skilled speaker, and is usually the face on the news when the Novgorodian government is involved.
Opinions on others: Novgorod has mostly indifferent relations with other nations, although they trade with Japan, EU and Brazil. Their relations with the other Russian nations aren't very warm, and they're quite neutral towards the Turks, without much contact. They dislike the US, who they view as environmental criminals, and for historical reasons as well.
Moral:++++++
World Opinion: ++++
Economy: ++++++
Technology: ++++
Espionage: ++++
Military: +++++
Production Facilities: The army’s weapons are outdated, but with a knock to the economy better weapons could be rolled out quickly.
Russian Fraction: Boosts espionage versus other Russian fractions.
Natural Resources: The Republic of Novgorod is rich in natural resources.