Tw: 2100 IC

[ArcaneStomper]

Turn 1

January 1st, 2100
Around the world clocks steadily tick down to the New Year as people celebrate in various fashions. Very few enjoy the massive events of the pre cataclysm world, but most still find the turning of the new year something to be relished. And especially the dawn of a new century. One that promises to finally see the world regain its former glory. This mass anticipation is one of the few things that is still shared globally. A remnant that was passed down from parent to child in lessons and copied actions even as the rest of the customs of the old civilization were forgotten or changed to suit the new world.

In most other ways the world has regressed from its days of globalization and meshing cultures. Now their is a patchwork of different nations. And as each is surrounded by vasts areas of isolating wilderness and uncivilized tribes they have formed their own ways of dealing with life. Some have become military states where the army is the focus and every citizen must serve their duty. Others are filled with grey industrial cities where the common worker toils ceaselessly to produce machines and goods needed to rebuild society.

So it has been for the past fifty years. But as the 22nd century dawns there are signs that this might be changing at long last. Merchants from around the world are finally rebuilding their trade routes. Scientists are sharing knowledge in scattered journals and messages. Ambassadors from one country or another criss cross the world vying for some political advantage.

And the leaders of nations consider counterparts not as something to be avoided or ignored. But as potential friends and enemies.


OOC Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?489094-Tw-2100-OOC&p=20812676)

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

One of the new nations that was both a military state, and filled with industrial cities was the curiously named Phoenix Compact. Then again, the origins of the nation was in a movement, a push to see at least a fraction of America's former glory restored. The hope was, like the mythological firebird, to have a rebirth after death. It had worked... to a degree.

All men and women worked. Even artists and philosophers had to do their fair share on the assembly line. At first, this policy was a necessity to make sure everyone was fed. After that much was assured, it became more a matter of tradition and principle. Once people had become used to all pitching in their 'fair share', it was hard to start making exceptions. On the positive, it ensured the Compact's continued economic growth. On the downside, it had held back their arts and sciences.

"There's nothing like pain to bring people together." The old woman coughed painfully as she chuckled. "In the best of times men found every way to hate one another, every way to be tribal. I fear... those times are coming back. This hope... this optimism will make the worst of us."

The woman was named Lyla Santos, the last living founder of the Phoenix Compact. The man she spoke to was Comandante Leon, the new head of state, part-general, part-bureaucrat. It was an awkward position, but like any good leader he had those he could delegate work to, make up for his own weaknesses. "You like to predict the worst."

"And usually I'm right." More coughing ensued. She had a bitter sense of humor, even until the end. "This is a... strange world now. No one would've ever guessed the kind of place it would become. Good luck, kid."

"Take care, Pantera." He stood up, leaving her behind and heading out of the hospital.

-

Morale: 3
The Second Nations receive an official letter from the Phoenix Compact indicating it is interested in establishing a partnership to help strengthen North America. The Compact wishes to send negotiators to the Second Nations in order to determine what would be an acceptable, mutually-beneficial deal for both nations.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Capital Building Conference Hall, Cape Canaveral, January 1st 2100, 9:58am local
"This is Cindy Stevens coming to you for Action Five news from the Capital where President James Alejándro is about to start the annual presidential address. As I'm sure you all are aware the annual presidential address has been a tradition dating back to the founding of the Coalition in 2058 and this year's address is expected to be quite interesting due to the recent news from outside our borders. As always Action Five will bring you this address, live via radio and, oh. It's about to start."

President Alejándro
"Good day friends. I am pleased to be able to speak to you all on this fine day, the dawn of a new century."

"For too long people have been forced to look backwards. During the long winter people were forced to look back to better times to retain any optimism. As our people came together in unity we were forced to look backwards to tools and weapons left behind in order to survive. And as we have grown over the last three decades since that terrible time we have been forced to look backwards and rediscover what was lost."

"But no longer. It is a new century, and a new dawn for humanity. From this point on we shall march forward into the future, united as one and ready to face what may come. There will be challenges ahead unlike those we have ever faced before but we will face them and we will overcome them."

"There have been rumors flying about regarding contact with other governments that were born in the crucible of the long winter, and I'd like to address some of them. Yes, there are many other factions active across the globe, and yes we are in contact with them. Since the long winter we have been focused heavily upon internal work, developing more arable land to feed our people, training our military to fend off the bandits, and building up our research capabilities so we can move forward and will not be stuck in the past. Our contact with these other nations has been limited up until now, but at this, the dawn of a new century, we have begun to focus upon what may be best for all of humanity, not just our little corner of the world."

"This will be a difficult time. No doubt some factions will seek to take what they want without regard for others. No doubt some factions will seek to infiltrate and control us. And no double some factions will wish nothing more than our destruction. But we will stand firm against them, and alongside the others out there who want nothing more than peaceful coexistence."

"Today is a new day for our people and I hope you'll join me in facing it with eyes and arms wide open." (loud applause)

Sent Messages (Morale 3)
Greetings. We of the Coastal Coalition would like to extend an olive branch. We acknowledge your rule over the territories of the north eastern seaboard and ask merely that you grant us the same courtesy. We request an opportunity to discuss a treaty of non-aggression with your people as we feel it would be in both of our best interests to waste time fighting one another.
Greetings. We of the Coastal Coalition would like to extend an olive branch. We acknowledge your rule over the territories of the midwest and ask merely that you grant us the same courtesy. We would like to discuss the possibility of an alliance of some sort, as our nation has access to the Atlantic and could help you secure trade routes while your nation scientific and military accomplishments have impressed us.
Greetings. We of the Coastal Coalition would like to extend an olive branch. We acknowledge your rule over the territories of the Atlantic beyond Bermuda and ask merely that you grant us the same courtesy. We acknowledge and are grateful for your efforts to reduce oceanic piracy and wonder if we may be of aid to you in this effort somehow.
Greetings. We of the Coastal Coalition would like to extend an olive branch. We acknowledge your rule over the territories of the west coast and ask merely that you grant us the same courtesy. We would be interested in discussing the possibility of some form of alliance as we feel we have much to offer you in the way of scientific expertise and your people's soldiers and economy are quite impressive.

[The-lost-Byte]

A single New year's Eve rocket flow up intro the sky, followed by a blue explosion. Then, it got loud. At 'Port Home' was the Clock just over the midnight mark, it is official the 1.1.10 the next year, the one where everything should become better. At least the alcohol was streaming in the whole atlantic...

But also, theyr was blood. It wasnt the blood of the Free Fleet, but instad the last sight of a small pirat vessel, that tried to takeover a oiltanker. A oiltanker under our flag. The renegades of a old battlefleet was hopeing for an easy catch, no other ship as in sight. But instad looking to the horizon, the should have looked intro the sky. A Plane was above them, something new, since not many nations are still useing planes. Something new, since it was build around 2033. Something new...

The drone was starting to charge down, getting in place to give the pirats the deadly present they deserve. Like a falcon atacked it the ship, shooting whit it small caliber maschinguns at the doomed target. Nobody expect a 'Stuka-drone' in this new era. Not at least because it is one of the last existing of a small number produced in the german manofactories, before the long winter.
After the last round of the Free Fleet drone was empty, the leftovers of the pirats was swiming in the atlantic ocean and the oiltanker contiued his course to Island. In the dead eyes of a renegates corpse reflected a ship, a jewel of every fleet, a 'Kleinod' of the long lost german naval forces. The drone was flying back to its carrier.
"Scum is sinking, sea is save..."

-- Bridge of the aircraft carrier 'Kleinod' - near Island - 04:47 --
"Kapitän! Eine Nachricht!" The radiooperator came whit a blog of paper intro the mainroom of the bridge.
"Mr. Frank Braun, what did i say about native launge?" reply the capitan.
"Not all on the bridge can german, sorry. Madam! We got a message of the 'Coastal Coalition', Florida-Bahamas-Cuba."
"And? what are jou waiting for, give it to me." She take the message. "Well... what do we know about them?"
"Just the comon rumors, mam. They are seem to be peacefull, but armed and are known for theyr great research fassilitys. But they have a shortcut at fuel." "How short?" "Theyr ships use mostly sails, but the other things does not seem to have a big impact of this."
She take out her own Blog and mate a few notice. After that, she gave the r-operator one of this notice and a few other paper.


Moral: 3
the free fleet thanks you
STOP
of course, we accept your territorial claims
STOP
We would appreciate permission to use your ports
STOP
in return, we offer escorts across the Atlantic
STOP
hope to reach an agreement
END OF MESSAGE

here the free fleet, island
STOP
we are interested in the succeed of your goals
STOP
to avoid misconceptions on the high seas
STOP
would we like to have a detection signal between our fleets
STOP
hope to reach an agreement
END OF MESSAGE

[Falgorn]

The African Union

Presidential Palace, Accra, Ghana
"Just as the sun rises on this glorious day to kiss our blessed continent, so do our people to liberate Africa! And what a glorious day it is! The first of the 22nd century, and the first day of our people's futures! The struggles of the past, the abduction and torture of our peoples by slavers, the brutal destruction of our continent by colonialism, and the pain and strife of tribal conflict and disease, are all behind us." President Kwame Faress took a deep sigh, wiping sweat off of his brow as he did so. He readjusted his microphone, as the annual New Year's Address was done over radio, and spoke again. "Our country is strong. Our people are strong. It is thanks to leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah, Ahmed Turay, and, of course, Izetta Cooper that we have been able to move so far. We must thank them for our strength and our prosperity." He sighs deeply.

"I only wish the whole of the continent could enjoy our prosperity, revel in our goodness, as we do. Still, separatists, barbarians, and warlords control our sovereign lands to the north, the south, and the east. It is tragic that, even in the 22nd century, our beloved Africa is subject to such oppression. I ask that you think of the peoples across our continent who live and die by the whims of warlords and that you lend yourself to work harder in the upcoming year. Our armies require yams, wheat, and beef to march and free our oppressed peoples." He briefly glanced at his watch.

"Enjoy your day off, Africa. I know that I will. Happy New Year."

Sent Messages (Morale 3):
Greetings, friend. We hope this finds you well. The African Union, recognizing the distinct and unique heritage of Afro-Caribbean peoples, cordially invites you to become a cultural member-state of the African Union!

This does not entail a loss of sovereignty in any fashion. The African Union has no strategic interests in North America.

No, what we propose is open trade, first and foremost, and a guarantee of non-aggression. You are surrounded by military-minded factions, as are we. We cannot afford to be enemies. If we can agree on these terms, prosperity is secured for both of our peoples. Moving forward, we can begin industrial and medical conferences, joint scientific projects, and educational ventures.

We hope that you find our proposal agreeable.
We hope this finds you well. As I'm sure you all know, we represent the last vestiges of prestige, civilization, and normalcy in this world. We are the Old World, for all of her flaws, and we carry the burdens of the planet upon our shoulders. Currently, the African Union cannot afford to host an international conference, but when the day arrives that we can again hoist high flags of international peace and global order, we hope you all will be there.

The world has degenerated, as I'm sure you have seen. What states haven't crumbled into barbaric tribalism have become worse, absolute dictatorships wearing the cloaks of long-dead monarchies. Spain, Italy, the rebels in Egypt, all are absolute autocracies with powerful military forces. I have no doubt that each of us will soon be in conflict with one or the other, especially Rome. We in the African Union advocate for a guarantee of non-aggression against the states addressed in this letter. While some of our histories have been tense and hostile, we have all seen the need for international diplomacy. The threats of the barbarians in Rome, the monarch of Spain, and the empire in the Middle East are serious - if we can, at the very least, agree not to attack each other, we can solidify our defenses against all of these forces. We hope you all find these terms agreeable, and we hope that this correspondence can begin a new age of international diplomacy, negotiation, and peace.
We hope this finds your two nations well. I do not know how many of your records have been preserved, but the African Union knows very well the history of this world. Our nations, in the 20th and 21st centuries, were subject to the whims of Western expansion and imperialism. Our sovereignty was challenged at every step, and our people oppressed by those in London, Washington, and Paris.

No longer. Our nations are the envies of the world, centers of industry, civility, and growth, while the heads of those imperialists roll on the ground. Beyond being just, this presents our nations with unbridled opportunity in this world. We ask that we three open trade with one another, maintain serious embassies, and work together on joint scientific projects. This is our initial offer - we also advocate for mutual defense of our nations from foreign conflict, but we suspect this is a more controversial offer.

We hope that you can consider these terms.
Hello, friends! We hope this message finds you well.

The African Union currently has access to various raw and industrial resources, including (but not limited to) foodstuffs, steel, coal, cotton, and rubber. You have great access to the Atlantic and access to oil refineries. We offer our hands in peace, friendship, and prosperity. In addition, we would like to open trade with you, and to offer fleet access for your ships. Should you need to stop on a long, arduous journey, and your sailors need breadth, we will negotiate to make that possible. We ask the same of you. This would be mutually beneficial, we hope you see. Your great product of oil will reach a new market, your ships will be able to travel without fear of being in foreign, dangerous waters, and you will have a friend in this cruel, harsh world.
Greetings. We offer you an opportunity for you to rejoin the African Union. Your military is in tatters, your people nearly riot at your gates. Rejoin and you can enjoy relative autonomy and peaceful transfers of power. In addition, we will help you rebuild and unite Africa under one banner.

Alternatively, you can resist. We will retake what is ours, the African people's, in that case. Cape Town will be blockaded and starved. Johannesburg will be reduced to ash. The citizens of Pretoria will beg for mercy and will turn against you.

You have your options.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
The sun rose splendidly over the Empire State House, where Mr. President resided. The New Oval Office was filled with tributes and tokens of appreciation from his fellow Patriots. A new year, and a perfect time to look towards expansion. While True American Ideal was finally established in the great state of New York, it was time to spread that idea back across the continental United States. Maybe he would do what no one in his position has done before, and spread that ideal across the entire world.

But first, he must send out correspondence, some in reply, and others on the initiative of the great people of The Patriots. True Democracy would spread across the lands like wildfire. The fervor of the American Dream will be reignited.

Message (Morale 5):


From the Office of Mr. President

Dear Mr. Alejandro,

While it is saddening to see the great state of Florida fall into a sort of Commie organization, we are willing to consider negotiations of Florida's sovereignty, in exchange for some of your valuable Research technology. In exchange, the people of the Patriots will not raid your lands and take back what is rightfully ours, and may lend some of our military forces to ensure its defense from other would-be invaders while you grow your defenses.

- Mr. President
President of the Patriots



From the Office of Mr. President

Dear Mr. Leon,

I am glad to see that during these dark times, not all of the great American Empire has fallen. I would propose a military alliance, one for the reuniting of our continent into at least two pieces, if not as a whole. With your people's enduring spirit, and mine's superior technology, we should be able to take control of the continent by the end of the year. Or, you can submit to our power, and the whole continent will be reunited, the choice is yours.

-Mr. President
President of the Patriots

[Jyssika]

January 1st, 2100
Forbidden City, Beijing.
Seat of the Chinese Government.

In every other country in the world the clocks tick slowly towards midnight and towards a new year. But not in China, it is yet another month and nine days before the Chinese new years festivities celebrating the Year of the Monkey begin. President Xi Li sits at a large desk, its surface almost a thousand years old dating back from when the Forbidden City was originally used by the Qing dynasty.

He steepled his hands, worried about whether the course of action he had chosen was the correct one.

(Moral 6)
Dear Neighbours,

It has been a long time since message has crossed between our boarders. China has changed a little in this time, although less than might be expected. We look forward to hearing back from you particularly reguarding any way our nation may be able to be of service to you.

President Xi Li,
Peoples Republic of China.
Dear Neighbours,

We have no interest inciting any conflicts between East and West, I understand your country and people may have fallen prey to the West in the past and we would be more than happy to provide assistance in supporting you. However, China has had very few problems with the West before the global issues.

Let us start our new world with new relationships, built on the present, not on the bitter histories of previous disagreements.

President Xi Li,
Peoples Republic of China.
Dear distant Neighbours,

It is good to hear news that distant lands have also survived the attrocities, the People's Republic of China are looking to once again open our doors and ports to potential trade partners. We looking forward to hearing from any potential friends, new or old.

President Xi Li,
Peoples Republic of China.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale: 3

The Compact will recognize the Coastal Coalition's sovereignty in exchange for recognition of our own sovereignty in return. As to anything more, for now we will try to better understand the current political climate before making hard commitments. Tentatively, we have some interest in any emergent technologies that could benefit our nation, but that is something to consider as time goes on.

President of the Patriots,

The old world's dead. The Compact was born out of the old American Empire's failure to protect its own. Still, we're a practical people, and we're not ones to refuse an offer over semantics. An aggressive military campaign across the continent is a hard bargain though, especially when your preference of our own submission is clear as day from your writing.

We're a practical people, and look for practical solutions. You have our ears, but for now we can't agree to any bloody conquests.

-Comandante Leon

[Legionary]

The Citadel, Canberra, Australia
The Grand Master's rustic office was a stark contrast to crisp clean white of the Order's typical futurist architecture. Here gathered before Edward Kelly was the political and military elite of the Order of the Southern Cross. Three years of fierce divisive debate had all come down to this one moment, and now the Grand Master would deliver his final decision to his inner circle. Time for strict isolation was over.

Morale: 2
Through advanced drone couriers a mysterious message arrives at several government buildings around the world. Both the drones and their packages appear other worldly in their sleek futuristic design, their likes never before seen beyond the borders of the mythical Order of the Southern Cross's heavily enforced exclusion zone. This would be the first time world would have had contact with the mysterious Order or in some cases even confirmed their existence. "The following message is a prerecording," announces the white sphere in a cold robotic voice before the strange communications device springs to life. Upon it's activation a flickering blue hologram of a slender woman wearing some sort of peculiar breathing apparatus appears.

"On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

After intense scrutiny your nation state is among the select few that been invited to participle in the Golden Dawn Summit...

The purpose of the Golden Dawn Summit is to discuss the frame work of a scientific research sharing program with the Order of the Southern Cross, the most technologically advanced intuition in human history...

This invitation extends to towards no more than five diplomatic personnel from your governing body. The participation of your head of Scientific Research and an emissary with diplomatic authority is mandatory...

The Golden Dawn Summit will be conducted under the strictest banner of neutrality. Primitive grievances with other participating nations are of no interest to the Order of the Southern Cross. If you wish to continue your animosities outside our agreements so be it, but they will have no baring or relevance regarding the submit...

The Order of the Southern Cross exclusion zone still stands. Thus talks will be hosted in an Order of the Southern Cross outpost on Christmas Island, which lies outside our perimeter...

If this innovation is declined or ignored your government will be blacklisted from further participation in these discussions. You will not receive this offer twice...

We hope for cooperation..."

And with that the message simply repeats indefinitely on a loop.

(If you hadn't already figured it out, this is an invitation to a closed door and espionage free face to face meeting.)

"This is message is intended for the governing body of the Chinese government...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

This a declaration of intent...

The Order of the Southern Cross military council has deemed necessary the occupation of the territories of what was formerly Japan...

The Japanese government will be reorganised as an Order of the Southern Cross protectorate...

Out of respect for your nation as the primary regional power, the Order of the Southern Cross offers the Chinese government an invitation for joint military cooperation...

Should you aid in the military occupation of Japan, we will re-establish it as a joint Chinese-Order protectorate...

All Japanese military and economic assets will be evenly divided for administration. The exception is that all Japanese research assets will be seized by the Order of the Southern Cross. The Chinese government will be compensated with their equivalent worth in other non-military assets...

If this invitation is declined or ignored your government will be blacklisted from further participation in this operation. You will not receive this offer twice...

We hope for cooperation..."

[Exthalion]

On the 286th day of the year the king caused to be inscribed these words in the city of Parsa which he had built.

I am Haxamanis, the great king, the king of kings, the king of Persia, the king of lands, the son of Kavata, the grandson of Kuru, an Acheamenid.

King Haxamanis says: That is why we are called Achaemenids; from antiquity we have been noble; from antiquity has our dynasty been royal.

King Haxamanis says: By the grace of Ahuramazda am I king; Ahuramazda has granted me the kingdom.

King Haxamanis says: These are the countries which are subject unto me, and by the grace of Ahuramazda I became king of them: Persia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the seven Emirates, Oman, Yemen, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India; twenty-five lands in all.

King Haxamanis says: These are the countries which are subject to me; by the grace of Ahuramazda they became subject to me; they brought tribute unto me. Whatsoever commands have been laid on them by me, by night or by day, have been performed by them.

King Haxamanis says: Within these lands, whosoever was a friend, him have I surely protected; whosoever was hostile, him have I utterly destroyed. By the grace of Ahuramazda these lands have conformed to my decrees; as it was commanded unto them by me, so was it done.

King Haxamanis says: Ahuramazda has granted unto me this empire. Ahuramazda brought me help, until I gained this empire; by the grace of Ahuramazda do I hold this empire.

Moral 3
To the Pharaoh, the king, the great king, king of the land of Egypt,
From Haxamanis, the king the great king, the king of lands,

In former days there was enmity between your forebears and mine, between your people and mine, between your land and mine. Let there no be enmity between us now.

If you will swear that you will not attack my lands or incite my people I shall swear that I shall not attack your lands or incite your people. Let there be a new peace and a new brotherhood between you and I and let it be better than the old peace and the old brotherhood.

A great portion of the lands which now bow to Parsa once bowed to Moscow, and it was the policy of the lords of Moscow to surround themselves with lands so that no conflict should come upon the Russias which had not first spent itself upon hostile lands. Now the Black Sea which is between our lands is flanked on either side by mountains and the lands between us are lightly peopled. Let us therefore agree that all that is south of the Caucuses and the Balkans belongs to the lands of Parsa and all that is north of the Caucuses and of the Balkans belongs to the lands of Moscow. Let us concur to station no great numbers of soldiers and to establish no strongholds and to do this that there will be no strife between us.

Moreover, it is the will of Haxamanis that our lands should cooperate concerning the production and distribution of such fuels as are useful to industry and to nations that through our friendship we may become rich and enjoy the homage of many nations.

Would you like a mutual non-aggression pact and trade relations? I don't know if the stats would reflect the fluff, but we do control most of the energy reserves of Eurasia between us.

In former days the leaders of your land proposed to the leaders of mine that the ancient road which spanned from Guangzhou and Hangzhou to Chang'An and thence to Samrkand and Istanbul should be established. It is agreeable to the king of lands to engage in this project which was formerly proposed and if it should be agreeable to you we propose to equal all investment you make for the purpose of completing this road and causing goods and riches to flow between us.

Moreover, it is pleasing to the king that that there should be no strife and no cause for strife between us and that should seeming cause for strife arise that his agents might discuss the matter with our agents and thereby avert strife to the benefit of both.

Would you like a joint econ project and non-aggression pact

It is the opinion of learned men that the nearness of our lands is cause for conflict and the mustering of arms. It is the delight of the king of lands to confound the learned men who prophecy doom. Therefore, he offers to you an arrangement of peace between your lands and his according to such terms as seem agreeable to you provided that he might consider them.

Moreover, it is not his intention to cultivate ignorance nor to hold his peoples captive in their own lands. He therefore sends to you his intentions for an opening of travel and communications between our lands for the edification of our two peoples and to begin the healing of such rifts as existed between our lands in ancient days and also in those days which proceeded the long winter.

Would you like a non-aggression pact and perhaps an econ/trade deal?

What is this message that has been sent, in violation of the skies of these lands from those who profess such love of borders? Moreover you have delivered demands and ultimatums which are odious above any promise of benefit you have offered.

If it is your wish that the king of lands or the leaders of nations and federations and orders and the diverse power of the Earth should deign to send men of import into your guarantee, present an offer which is respectful of the dignity of kings of of nations among whom yours is but a peer and not first among them. In this message state clearly what you offer and thereby hope to gain that the nations should know you for a friend and not a braggart and a liar.

OOC: The message was rather rude both in how it was delivered and its text. Despite that you didn't really say what the conference was for, why it would be worth anyone's time, and what arrangements you have made to ensure the security of the very important people you demanded come.

[Andre]

HOSPITALLER ORDER

mor 4

on the lookout for funding sources
The Knights Hospitaller wish to remind all men and women of good faith that it is their mission to deliver humanitarian, medical & social assistance to those in need.
As such, any donation granted to the Order, material or not, will be diverted to ensure the success of our peacekeepers and aid workers.


relay this message to the King of Kings;
No doubt plenty of vultures would take great pleasure to witness us weakening each other for their convenience. We will gladly speed along the process of establishing trading ties between our people so that we may help fellow men prosper.
Your desire for peace is commendable. And for peace, a lasting peace, we must build trust. There are a couple of treaties we could sign to hasten this process, and it would not be amiss if we could discuss about them privately. Or not. At any rate, the Haute Cour will await an answer.

I would, but I have a couple of other proposals as well. If you wanna continue here or on a PM, it's your call.



Greetings of the Order to Rome reborn. We would like to establish an embassy in the site of Palazzo Malta, where the headquarters of the Order existed prior to the Long Winter. Whether this will lead to further cooperation between us in the future or not, only time will tell.

Greetings of the Order to the Pharaoh. While we have reserves about your methods, your people do seem to be most pleased with your rule. Enchanted even, some might say. That will do for now. Hopefully we will enjoy long years of peace together.


The Hospitaller Order recognizes kindred spirits in your organizations, and is pleased to know about the relief efforts you carried out so far. Should you ever want to cooperate, know that our doors are always open to your ambassadors.

[lukitux]

New year was the traditional time for the prime minister to give a speech and this new year was the start of a new millennium. Unfortunately, the radio tower in the capital was experiencing technical difficulties. After an hour of waiting, the prime minister finally addressed the nation. "Is this thing finally on? You sure? Ok, this is your prime minister speaking and I would like to apologize for the delay. I can assure you that a subcommittee is already being formed to prevent this from happening again. Now that that has been fixed, I have some great news. We have built a radio transmitter and reciver that can contact other nations across the globe. The parliament has recently approved a plan to build a rail line connecting every city to the capital. We promise that it will be done before the end of the decade. This project will bring prosperity and unity to the nation. The dawn of the century will bring prosperity to the country and its people. Minister Garcia out.

Morale 2

This is senator Rodriguez, head of the international trade committee and the train project committee. We would like to thank you for your efforts to dissuade piracy. We have heard that you have working oil rigs, and we need oil for our planned rail network. In exchange, we can repair and build ships for your fleet with our factories and shipyard.

Hello, this is the prime minister of the Lodge. I'm sure that if we allowed free trade between our nations, it would benefit all of us greatly. This is why I would like to propose the North and South America Free Trade Accord, NSAFTA for short. It will establish open borders for trading vehicles and prohibit military actions against other nations traders. If you have any objections, terms or revisions, please reply. When all nations have agreed, we will organize somewhere we can sign it.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Message Replies (Morale 3)
The Coastal Coalition is pleased to hear your reply. Of course we shall open our ports to your ships, it is only right that people help one another in these trying times. We appreciate the offer of escort vessels and will gladly take you up on it as our naval forces are not designed or equipped for such long voyages. Our ships shall be embarking to trade with the people of The African Union shortly so your offer of escort is most appreciated.

If you require any specific aid in the future please do not hesitate to ask. It is my sincere hope that our people can become great friends and work together to reach a better tomorrow. Thank you.
The Coastal Coalition appreciates your offer. We will gladly accept a pact of non-aggression and we welcome the establishment of open trade. As we have recently begun efforts to secure our trade across the Atlantic with the aid of the people of The Free Fleet (if you have not already contact them to discuss escorts I would recommend it, as they seem to be a most agreeable group) your timing could not be more fortuitous in this offer.

We can certainly discuss greater efforts of cooperation going forwards. It pleases me greatly to have heard from you and I wish your people all the best in their efforts. Thank you.
While we are certainly willing to negotiate with your people it does not seem like we have gotten off to a good start. I apologize for any confusion from my initial correspondence, but I'm afraid we are not currently seeking protection. Instead we merely wish to establish agreements of non-aggression with our neighbors. If that is agreeable to you we can move forward with any specific negotiations. Thank you for your time.
The Coastal Coalition understands your reluctance to make any major agreements at this time. A new century dawns and there are likely many changes to come. Please know that we do not hold anything against you and are pleased with the mutual recognition of sovereignty. Should you wish to discuss any further agreements between our people we would be happy to listen to your proposals. In the meantime I shall wish your people good fortune in the days to come.
The Coastal Coalition would be happy to participate in free and open trade across all of the Americas. We have no desire to usurp the sovereignty of any nations and will enter into these Accords should they be ratified by the other nations.

We would also like to thank the people of The Lodge for opening up these discussions. In these trying times it can be difficult to be optimistic about such a grand plan and we appreciate your attempt to unite these two continents.

[The-lost-Byte]

Free Fleet
Moral: 3

the free fleet thanks for this offer
STOP
we agree to the contract of free and open trade and travel
STOP
at the time, we are in the need of the moste of our oil
STOP
only small amounts are spearable
STOP
we allready work on a way to provide more to offer it you as soon as possible
END OF MESSAGE


free fleet, atlantic ocean
STOP
we got your invitation to the 'Golden Dawn Summit'
STOP
we will send a submarin whit the requested staff
STOP
names in this order:
leader of iceland reserch labs
representant of ASD (air and sea development)
leader of the free fleet
STOP
Dr. Kevin von Stern
Mrs. Chung Delci
Mrs. Maria Schmitt
END OF MESSAGE


the free fleet is also relieved that this part of Earth is in good hands
STOP
due to the presence of several military States we are insecure, if we can safely cross the mediterranean sea
STOP
accordingly, currently can no permanent contact consist
STOP
as soon as we got new informations, we will contact you again
END OF MESSAGE


the free fleet greets the king of iberian peninsula
STOP
we ask for information to passableness of the mediterranean sea andyour willingness to intercontinental trade
STOP
we would be prepared to pay customs duties per ship entering the mediterranean, should it be necessary for peaceful cooperation
STOP
furthermore we would like to know more about your political attitude towards the other nations at the mediterranean sea
STOP
the free fleet hopes for a peaceful solution to our both well
END OF MESSAGE

Research 2 supported by Economy 2out of date

in short: industrial hydrogen production and use as a fuel for ships.
With the help of the 'h-fuel' project the Free Fleet intends to become independent of oil
and provide so a new commodity to the international market.

The biggest problems to be solved are:
- Successful mass production
- safe custody
- upgrade from a part of the ships

Greatest supports are:
- Known method of electrolysis in small scale
- Pre-winter projects of this type by Iceland, although most went lost through the volcanic activities
(It's true, look at this!somehow, it isnt inside the english one... (https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Island#Energiewirtschaft) but take this (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen_ship) and this (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen_economy#Examples_and_pilot_programs) and we own one of this (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_212_submarine)!)

[Murska]

Novaya Russia [Morale 3]

"The long winter has receded, and as the world rebuilds, we can tell ourselves - Russia has endured. Just as we always have, and always will, our people will face any challenge and rise to master it. Just as we were first in space, we shall take our place on the world stage of today to lead our species.

The world has changed, but some things don't change. The bravery, loyalty and strength of the Russian people remains the wellspring of strength that our Motherland can draw on. The weak have fallen, and new nations rise to prominence. We are strong, and will yet be stronger. We will not only survive, but thrive and prosper in this new world. That is our destiny. The future of our people is in our hands. Take heart from your history, your brothers and sisters beside you and the unconquerable spirit of the Russian nation - this is but the start of what we shall accomplish together."

Zyuganov steps down from the podium amidst the applause, not waiting to see the rest of the parades and other festivities. There is much to do.

The world may have changed, but some things never do. I have some messages to send.

African Union, Japan, France, Switzerland, People's Republic of China

You speak well. But the world is in flux, and in order for me to safeguard the interest of my people and my nation, I will need to see how the pieces settle before tying myself to many accords and pacts that may or may not have binding strength if the push comes to a shove. You may rest assured that Russia wishes you no ill, but we will prefer bilateral negotiations with nearby powers regarding further treaties.

African Union, People's Republic of China

We remember our history well.

Trade and scientific cooperation suits our aims well. Mutual defense is a question - specifically one of whether the African Union both foresees conflict in their region, and is able to project power into Eurasia in the event of conflict here. Such agreements are always good on paper, but in reality they require the capacity to actually act together in need, joint training and standardization of equipment. And there is always the reaction of others to consider, who might see an alliance as targeted against them.

People's Republic of China

You may note that most of the objections to an alliance with the African Union are not an issue between the two of us. Perhaps you would be so kind as to arrange a private meeting between us to discuss whether we should cooperate in our immediate region to our mutual interest?

Order of the Southern Cross

Thank you for your polite and well-spoken invitation, but unfortunately our backwards nation is too busy with our primitive grievances to attend your magnanimously presented 'conference'. All the respect that your ambitions are due, however - perhaps we may converse one day under more auspicious stars.

Neo-Achaemenid Empire

You are clearly a wise ruler, to address future problems before they become problems.

We agree and accept the dividing line on the Caucasus, but cannot agree to a pre-established sphere of influence within the European continent. There are others with interest there, and many long-standing claims and disputes. In addition, there is some historical precedent that makes us leery of such an arrangement.

Trade and other cooperation is in both our interest, however. Perhaps we may even work together to shape the political boundaries of our respective regions if need be. Much of the lands that you once ruled no longer accepts your will, and the same is true with us.

France

We shall keep this short and to the point. Both of us are, by necessity, wary of this so-called 'Roman Empire' that has surfaced in our midst. Neither of us can stop them alone. I propose we publicize a mutual defensive pact against any unprovoked attack on either of our sovereign territory. They should catch our intent, and direct their attention elsewhere.

[Falgorn]

The African Union

Sent Messages: (Morale 3)
Can you describe to me the strength/makeup of minor nations to the east of the African Union? Also, can you describe to me Hispaniola (Haiti/Dominican Republic)?
It pleases us greatly to hear of your acceptance to our terms! The African Union has access to currently untapped resources, including crude oil, but we have only old, inefficient ways of processing oil. Perhaps with your expertise and our raw product, both of our countries can grow strong.
We fear that you have misunderstood our intent. We have no policy of revanchism against Europe, quite the opposite, the African Union cares deeply for their well-being (indicated by the message we sent to those surviving European nations). The African Union was simply remarking on our shared histories of resistance to Western imperialism (in case the People's Republic had forgotten who funded, armed, and supported insurgency against China in the 20th and early 21st century).

The point remains - all of us are in an incredibly opportune time to expand; an alliance and trade negotiations would be incredibly beneficial to each other.
We are incredibly excited by your support! Moving forward, we offer two projects that we believe will be mutually beneficial: 1) Open port access for both of our navies/merchant marines. Ships bearing either of our flags will be free to dock at the others bases (given the right security clearance, of course), strengthening our navies and trade routes. 2) Industrial/scientific exchange. Simply put, this would entail a sharing of information: You would send researchers and scientists here, and we would send experts on factory maintenance and production to you. By investing in each other, both of us would succeed. We hope that you find this agreeable.
We hope this message finds you well. You have invited the terrorist separatists who hold South Africa and Egypt to this mission. If you are willing to rescind their invitation, we would happi
Greetings, noble Ethiopia. In the wake of all conflicts past, Ethiopia has remained indomitable. You were renowned as the only African country to successfully resist colonization, and you still stand strong. The African Union has no quarrel with you, and respects the legitimacy of your rule. The name Haile Selassie is one spoken with a pious tone in our country; e respect everything the lions of your nation have done to preserve your independence.

We offer a military alliance. Italian aggression is, once again, a threat to both of our nations, a mad "pharaoh" rules in Egypt, and Africa is divided and owned by barbarians and warlords. If you are willing, we will defend you against any attacks, and we would hope that you would do the same.
This is, of course, an important question to consider. It is important to note, here, that the primary conflicts that we will be a part of are merely counter-terrorism efforts. Separatists and rebels have taken hold of many sovereign lands within the noble continent of Africa, and we would not deign to ask for Russian military aid for this venture. The military alliance that we have proposed is for, exclusively, conflict between the continent and outside the continent. We have specific strategies that benefit from our continent location, but we are hesitant to reveal them over such an easily stolen platform. Perhaps if we met in person, such concerns could be resolved. If you still find this disagreeable, we will rescind the offer. The open trade and scientific ventures stand, in the near future we hope to collaborate on projects with you.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots

Messages: (Morale 5)


From the Office of Mr. President

Dear Mr. Alejandro

I am quite aware you wish for us to recognize your "nation's" sovereignty. While we, The Patriots, are willing to consider it, we require you to donate to us some of your research designs. If you wish for it, we are also willing to provide some military support, if you are invaded. That is our offer, if you have a better one, I'm willing to hear it.

From,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Mr. Kelly
For this proposed research conference of yours, I had a few questions regarding security. What security will you have in place to safeguard the lives of our envoys from foreign assassination? And will it be ok for us, The Patriots, to leave a military escort waiting off the coast of your island outpost to safeguard the lives of our envoys?If the security is considered adequate and the escort is allowed, I, with the authority vested in me by my predecessor, will gladly send a diplomatic envoy to the conference.

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


Dear Leaders of the Western Hemisphere,
I, Mr. President, propose amendments to the proposed North and South America Free Trade Accords (Hereby referred to as NSAFTA). While opening trade is very much in my nation's best interest, I, as a leader, am concerned if two of its member states went to war. Obviously it would be against our best interests to allow enemy states to freely pass trade vehicles through our borders. The opportunities for espionage are endless. So, as such I would like to add the addendum that we may close our borders to trade with another member state who is currently at war with us, or allied states. NSAFTA sounds like it will be good on paper, but more details must be ironed out before The Patriots will agree to this.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Emperor of Rome,

As we can both see, we are nations of the same kind. Looking to expand our borders through military might. However, in this path, we often do not make many allies. Why don't we change that? I propose a military alliance. While in the short term, your sheer military might may let the empire stand tall above your enemies, eventually they will band together and defeat you. However, if combined with the manufacturing and research facilities of my nation, both of us may stand tall together. In the short term, I would like to borrow some of your military reserves, in order to solidify a larger territory base to begin production. In exchange, I will loan some of my research teams to help develop new weapons, and will swear in public that I will aid your nation militarily if you are ever invaded. May we both be prosperous in both battle and life.

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots



OOC:
Also do we post actions here? I'll post the first action here, if you want it in PM's in the future let me know

The Patriots require a much larger standing army if they are to expand their borders. Currently, the army is a volunteer basis, and many do volunteer. But, while the first wave sets out, I, as Mr. President, will order several of my research teams to research marketing techniques to increase the volunteer rate, taking advantage of the high morale of our people.

Military:
Military Action 1: 4 points spent: Southern Expansion, the majority of the current standing army will depart southwest, hoping to take the remnants of Pennsylvania. If they are met with significant resistance (where it appears the force may be wiped out) they are to immediately retreat back to the current borders.

Espionage:
No action at this time

Research
Research Action 1: 4 points spent
Marketing Teams will be assigned out of our research teams to try and come up with ways to increase the volunteer rate for the armed forces (Military Increase)

Economy
Economy Action 1: 2 points spent
Manufacturing will momentarily switch to a war-like bent, manufacturing and repairing old firearms and retrofitting ships (Military Increase)

Morale
Morale Action 1: 4 points spent
The propaganda teams will be taking advantage of the high morale and support the government receives from the people (Military Increase)

World Opinion
No action at this time

[Legionary]

Order of the Southern Cross

"This is message is intended for the governing body of New York...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

There will be a Southern Cross military presence on Christmas Island for security purposes regarding the summit...

Christmas Island falls outside the Order of the Southern Cross exclusion zone. We are indifferent to any military escort you provide in travelling to and from the summit...

We hope for cooperation..."

"This is message is intended for the governing body of West African...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

We reiterate...

The Golden Dawn Summit will be conducted under the strictest banner of neutrality. Primitive grievances with other participating nations are of no interest to the Order of the Southern Cross. If you wish to continue your animosities outside our agreements so be it, but they will have no baring or relevance regarding the submit...

The purpose of the Golden Dawn Summit is scientific development and enlightment. Invitations will not be rescinded on petty politics...

We hope for cooperation..."

"This is message is intended for the governing body of Moscow...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your declination to the Golden Dawn Summit has been noted...

We hope for future cooperation..."

"This is message is intended for the Achaemenid government...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your declination to the Golden Dawn Summit has been noted...

We hope for future cooperation..."

[Madwand]

Crown-Sanctuary of Iberia

Morale 2


We thank you for your invitation. We wish to know more, if you are willing to share with us any details - Crown can afford to commit our best scientist to so vague request. What would be purpose of such specific region?



Greetings to great nations of Africa,

Crown Ministry of Information Warfare intercepted fallowing message from Africa Union to Order of the Southern Cross:


We hope this message finds you well. You have invited the terrorist separatists who hold South Africa and Egypt to this mission. If you are willing to rescind their invitation, we would happi

We wish to discuss the expansionist and revisions claims of this Union.
Signed,
King Sebastian I




We have no problems with your ships entering the Mediterranean Sea. The Crown-Sanctuary is currently gathering information and assessing our position. We will not discuss further details.
Signed,
King Sebastian I



Emperor of Rome,

"Gallia est omnis divisa in partes tres" as Julius Caesar started his account of Gallic Wars. Today, France is divided between more petty warlords that we can count and anarchy is prevalent in the whole region. We wish to discuss a peacekeeping mission, to bring order and law into this region.

Signed,
Sebastian I

[Legionary]

Order of the Southern Cross

Morale: 2
"This is message is intended for the governing body of Spain...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

The purpose of the Golden Dawn Summit is to discuss the frame work of a scientific research sharing program with the Order of the Southern Cross, the most technologically advanced intuition in human history...

Detail of the program's mechanisms are subject to the Golden Dawn Summit's attendance...

Christmas Island was chosen for the Golden Dawn Summit as it is neutral ground that falls outside the Order of the Southern Cross exclusion zone...

We hope for cooperation..."

[Mabn]

​Federation of Surviving States


We are always pleased to see stable and nonexpasionist North American governments take root. We are open to the possibility of treaties or trade agreements but their contents would need to be carefully ironed out.



We do not underestimate the importance of trade, but it is to early for us to accept multilateral trade agreements with all the governments of North and South America. Some of these so called governments are oppressive warlords who would use such an agreement for legitimacy and to further their human rights violations. Even more groups lack any notion of quality protection laws, financial oversight, or intellectual property protection.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia [Morale 3]

African Union

If you wish to organize a private meeting to discuss potential military cooperation, I would be glad to attend.

[Jyssika]

January 2st, 2100
Forbidden City, Beijing.
Seat of the Chinese Government.

It was early morning when the first replies began to flood in, some conventional letters and radio transmissions. Another two from some strange technological drone with an audio message.

(Moral 6)
Dear King Haxamanis,

Whilst I am overjoyed at the recieval of such an invitation from another nation to open trade relations so soon upon once again making contact with the outside world, you must understand my trepidation at any firm agreements or pledges. China is very inwards focussed, having very little information on the outside world since the fall of global communications and would be foolish to agree to any such allegences without fully understanding your culture and knowing you understand ours.

So, it is with a warm and welcome heart that the Peoples Republic of China would like to arrange a diplomatic meeting either on your soil or ours so that we might discuss this at greater length.

Respectfully and Sincerely,
President Xi Li.
Peoples Republic of China.
Dear Order of the Southern Cross,

I feel I must first say that I am intrigued and impressed by the device that I recieved portraying your message, it clearly displays how far you have progressed in terms of technology and information storage and I must admit it makes me all the more eager to form a channel of discussion with your people.

I, however, was horrified to see the plans for join invasions sent through such an insecure channel and would be most displesased if any such future sensitive information was to be transmitted in such a way.

The PRC and Japan have had a difficult relationship for longer than Austrailia has been a country and we would need to speak about it in great detail before agreeing to any of your terms.

Please expect one of our diplomats at your summit, he will be accompanied by our Chairman of Research but what we can offer in this department is no-doubt of little interest to you and your people. We may, as an ally, be able to help you in other ways however and look forward to continuing our discussions about the Japanese people.

Respectfully and Sincerely,
President Xi Li.
Peoples Republic of China.
Dear our Closest Neighbors.

We are glad to know you came through the global crisis safely, we know there have been some issues between our people in the Old World and even the Ancient World and we hope those do not continue into the New World.

President Xi Li.
Peoples Republic of China.
Dear Neighbors.

We would be more than happy to recieve you or one of your Envoys for further discussions on our future relationships.
If this is not agreeable we would also be willing to dispatch one of our own Diplomats, or, perhaps myself personally.
Please contact us to let us know if this is agreeable and which best fits your people.

President Xi Li.
Peoples Republic of China.
Dear Neighbors.

We, do not forget our past, but we must also remember that with each new leader comes new flaws and mistakes.
We are all not perfect, have we all not made mistakes; it pleases me greatly to see you are learning from our previous mistakes and approaching the world in a peaceful manner. We would be most pleased if you would meet us in private to discuss how our two governments may be able to assist each other.

We would be more than happy to recieve you or one of your Envoys for further discussions on our future relationships.
If this is not agreeable we would also be willing to dispatch one of our own Diplomats, or, perhaps myself personally.
Please contact us to let us know if this is agreeable and which best fits your people.

President Xi Li.
Peoples Republic of China.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia [Morale 3]

People's Republic of China

I believe I shall make the trip myself now that the Trans-Siberian is fully functional.

I look forward to the meeting.

President Grigori Zyuganov
The Federation of Novaya Russia

[Legionary]

Order of the Southern Cross

Morale: 2
"This is message is intended for the governing body of China...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your acceptance of the Golden Dawn Summit invitation has been noted...

The Order of the Southern Cross' occuption of former Japanese territory is a necessity to the Great Design...

Our declaration of intent holds no classified information. The Order of the Southern Cross' occuption of former Japanese territory is inevitable. Only Chinese cooperation remains in question...

We will facilitate your request for futher discussions. An envoy of diplomatic and military command elements will be dispatched to Beijing pending Chinese approval...

We hope for cooperation..."

(I have used my one secure conference quota this turn for the Golden Dawn Summit. If you want a private conference to discuss convert affairs I guess you will need to use yours.)

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
I am most pleased with the ongoing communication and cooperation between our peoples. Great days lie ahead for both of us, I am certain. Regarding your proposed agreements we agree to your proposal of Open Ports between our people, and welcome your ships visits. I hope you will find our port facilities agreeable to your ships.

As to your proposal of an industrial/scientific exchange we find it agreeable but untenable at this time. Our transatlantic capabilities are extremely limited and, with the world in the state that it is, we don't currently have the luxury of pulling scientists from their work to sit on a ship for several weeks. We will gladly set aside time for our scientists and factory works to communicate with yours over the radio and the moment it becomes practical for us to begin moving people around as you proposed we will be happy to exchange information with The African Union as proposed. Please do not feel that I am rejecting your proposal, merely delaying it until it is more practical to accomplish. Of course, if The African Union has quicker means of conducting transatlantic trips than our sail vessels, we would be happy to reconsider the possibility.

Thank you.
It saddens me greatly to hear that you wish to begin this new century on such an antagonistic note. The Coastal Coalition is not willing to pay any form of tribute to your people. I will ask once more that you restrict your military forces from operating within our borders. I do not expect you to heed this request but it will be made all the same. With the world in the shape it is in, can you really afford to go out of your way to make enemies Mr. President?
Understandable. I propose that, for the time being, we simply agree to a pact of non-aggression, to take no hostile actions against each other. These are trying times and there are many threats out there, so I propose we simply agree to remove each other from the list of potential problems. If that is agreeable to you please let me know.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale 3
The Compact seconds the concerns of both the Patriots and Federation of Surviving States. All can agree on the economic benefits of trade, but security is also of chief concern to us. As of this time, the Compact will be willing to establish trade with nations on the Western Hemisphere on an individual basis, and make a decision case by case.

If the Lodge or any other power chooses to host a more formal summit where concerns can be addressed, then the Compact will participate.

[The-lost-Byte]

Free Fleet
Moral 3

a economic project to ensure the avabiltity of high quality oil products is in our interest
STOP
we must just settle the terms about the amount to transfer and how the final product will be chared between us
STOP
we will send the first oiltanker after your reply
END OF MESSAGE


the Free Fleet got just the aceptence of the Crown-Sanctuary of Iberia to enter the mediterranean sea
STOP
now that we have entrace to this area, we see no problems to further cooperation
STOP
we offer you a way to trade whit transatlantic nations
STOP
greater varity in foodstuff and other goods are worth concidering
END OF MESSAGE



A small ship of the Free Fleet, a less armed corvett whit full light and unmaned main-cannon, enters a port of the Coalition. It was delivering a message and unlike earlyer messages, this time the message was given to the CC-gouverment as a letter.
This has no rule-diffrence to regular messages.

Greetings Coastal Coalition,

we are also working whit the African Union, so we are more than happy to hear about that.
You offered us your aid and as your are one of the leading nations in the point of research and science,
we wand to ask you whit help in a important project of ours.

The 'H-Fuel' project should help us to be less addicted to our own oil, by the use of hydrogen.
Iceland was working on this type of energie for its ships before the long winter,
but many of its process gone lost thoug the vulcanic eruptions.

We need esspecialy your help for the safety-mechanismen of production and transport,
as it is a high-explosive on iits finest form. Because oure nearly free accsess to electric energie,
we can safely tell the production of H-Fuel can solve much of the fleets problems.

This will enable us to trade more of our Oil, which will result in a bigger variety of modern products to the free market.

to a better tomorrow!
the Free Fleat

Economy 2 + waiting for reply of the African Union

in short: useing African resources and our technic to produce high quality goods.
On the initiative of the African Union, we are trying to higher the standart of oure products.
In quality as well as in quantity. (first for the AF, second for the FF)

Thys projekt is still in planing.


Research 2 +waiting for reply of the Coastal Coalition

in short: industrial hydrogen production and use as a fuel for ships.
With the help of the 'h-fuel' project the Free Fleet intends to become independent of oil
and provide so a new commodity to the international market.

We would work even if the CC refuses.

The biggest problems to be solved are:
- Successful mass production
- safe custody
- upgrade from a part of the ships

Greatest supports are:
- Known method of electrolysis in small scale
- Pre-winter projects of this type by Iceland, although most went lost through the volcanic activities
(It's true, look at this!somehow, it isnt inside the english one... (https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Island#Energiewirtschaft) but take this (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen_ship) and this (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen_economy#Examples_and_pilot_programs) and we own one of this (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_212_submarine)!)

[lukitux]

The Lodge

Morale 2

There is a new amendment being added to the NSAFTA accord. The Patriots said that if there was a war, trade vehicles could be used for espionage. He wants the accord to not apply to two countries at war. I would like to add to that by saying that if two countries are at war, countries not at war are not required to allow trade with countries at war. This is to prevent neutral countries from forcibly being attacked to prevent countries from getting supplies. If any object to this amendment or wish to add new ones, please contact me. The Lodge will host a summit once we revive a reply from the Solaris cult. Senator Rodrigez from the trade committee out.

Thank you for cooperating with the agreement. It is nice to know that at least one country is interested in unity not conquest.

I was told that a leaders first responsibility is to their people. can worry about who you are trading with when your citizens aren't starving.

[Moody the Wise]

The Second Nations

Morale: 5


The letter is returned. Greetings. Your negotiators will be welcome. We have heard that you are interested in rebuilding, rising anew from the ashes of what once was. We would be most curious to know what your vision for the world looks like, as we found much of what perished in the Great Winter to be unworthy of resurrection. We look forward to a fruitful discussion.



We of the Second Nations suggest a summit to discuss the matter of open borders and trade, both of which will only be agreed to with face-to-face discussion of the many issues involved.

[Moody the Wise]

The Second Nations

Morale: 5



We of the Second Nations offer sanctuary to those displaced by war, disease, famine, and the unpredictable turns of Mother Earth. Accordingly we are willing to compensate you for the safe transportation of such persons to our territory.


We of the Second Nations offer sanctuary to those displaced by war, disease, famine, and the unpredictable turns of Mother Earth. If you come across such persons or have such persons under your care and you are unable or unwilling to provide for them, we will take them in and they will know home.

[Mabn]

Federation of Surviving States


We understand you. You rebuilt your nation after the disaster and expanded to care for people in a large area. We maintained our nation and even on our darkest day cared for our people and never let our nation fall apart. Short term gains and easy fixes are no doubt common sense to you. If we were going to loose ourselves to hunger we would have done it already.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale 3
The negotiator arrives to the Second Nations, a person dressed professionally as befitting the position, but her weathered face suggested someone who'd spent much of her life working outside doing manual labor. She presents to the Second Nations that the Compact's main interest in working with the Second Nations is its strong reputation globally. Although the Compact has a strong military, it cannot stand to face a coalition should one arise. The Compact's interest is to form a defensive alliance with the Second Nations, the Compact promising military aid if the Second Nations is in trouble, and in return the Second Nations can rally global support and allies for the Compact should any aggressors attack.

As to any specific agendas beyond this, the Compact intends to be patient. There are several other powers in the Americas, and the Compact intends to wait and see how things initially play out before it starts committing to wars and alliances.

[ArcaneStomper]

Japan, France, and Switzerland to the African Union
Japan: We see no real need for a non aggression pact between such widely separated nations.

France: We would be willing to sign a non aggression pact.

Switzerland: We also are willing to sign such an agreement. We are also willing to host a conference to discuss such a pact in more detail.

South Africa to African Union
The Union we were once part of swore to maintain the sovereignty and independence of its members as one of it's founding goals. It would have loathed your imperialism, and we see no reason to join your degraded version of its name. The fact that you threaten to take what is ours in the name of the African people is ludicrous. We spent many years wrestling control back from the colonialist powers and we do not see any reason to give up power to those who claim to be acting in our name.

Egypt to the Southern Cross
The Great and Power Pharaoh ruler of all the lands from the seas to the deserts sees no need for your paltry trinkets. Begone and take your metal servants with you.

South Africa to the Southern Cross
You have spent decades killing every confederation that attempted to share your secrets no matter their ideology. Why should we believe you are not simply trying to kidnap our foremost scientists to torture for their knowledge and to set back our research.

Imperium Romanum to the Southern Cross
By the order of Caeser I, Magistrate Maximillan, will visit your conference and see what you can offer the Imperium.

Ethiopia to the Southern Cross
We accept

Egypt to the Neo-Achaemenid Empire
The Great and Powerful Pharaoh sees no need for enmity between brother kings. The gods however have granted the river kingdom to the Pharaoh, the god made flesh, and thus your claim to dominion over it is false, and must be withdrawn before we can have true brotherhood.

Imperium Romanum to Hospitaller Order
Your request is rejected. Only citizens of the Empire or vassal states may enter the glorious capital. Your request could of course be revisited if you are willing to swear fealty to Caesar.

Egypt to the Hospitaller
The Great and Powerful Pharaoh accepts your half hearted compliment in the spirit with which it was given.

France to Novaya Russia
We agree such a pact will be of use not only against Rome, but any other opportunistic empires looking to expand in these turbulent times.

The African Union (GM)
The former countries to the east of the African Union are mostly lawless territory filled with old tribes and nomads. They have no real central government, though two or more tribes will sometimes ally and dominate their particular region.

Haiti is mostly comprised of a few remnant cities that try to keep order in the territory around them, but don't do a great job of it.

Ethiopia to the African Union
We respect your accomplishments. However as you said Ethiopia has stood solid against the tide of imperialists for countless years. We see no reason not to continue to do so. And your own Union is the most imperialistic on the continent. We do not wish to be drawn into your wars.

Imperium Rōmānum to the Patriots
The words of men hold little weight in modern times. We will need some more concrete assurance that you will actually follow through on any agreements of defense.

To the Patriots (GM)
Actions are done in your EoTs. Which you should send to me in a PM. I will announce when they are due, but it will probably be next week some time.

South Africa and Egypt to the Crown-Sanctuary of Iberia
South Africa: We are not surprised. They have already threatened to burn our harbors and pillage our cities if we do not submit to their rule.

Egypt: The Great and Powerful Pharaoh thinks that these Unionists have grown too arrogant and must be taught the true glory of the Pharaoh.

Imperium Romanum to the Crown-Sanctuary of Iberia
(OOC: France is actually one of the few remaining nations in Europe. Just for the record.)
We see no issue with this. How do you propose Gaul be divided between our "peacekeepers".

Japan to China
The troubles of our ancestors have no bearing on modern events. It has been many years since the last of our leaders with hostility to China died. And our current leaders have no quarrel with your honorable country.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots (Morale 5)
Messages


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Emperor of Rome,
The Patriots do not mean to offend your honor. We do not give only a mere promise of mutual defense but also promise as an initial investment, that we will send research teams over to your lands to help you develop better weapons, and will share some of the breakthroughs we make with our own research teams. If you wish we can ratify this into a public treaty and publish it to the world, so that if we may break it, we would earn the scorn of the rest of the world. I truly believe, not only as the leader of the Patriots, but as an individual that we may be able to form a good military alliance and bring order to those around us. The original Founding Fathers based many ideas off of the original Roman Empire so I believe that our nations will mesh well together. If there are any other assurances that you wish to have, I'd be glad to hear you out.

Thank you for your consideration,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


Dear Mr. Kelly,
Upon hearing that you will allow us to provide our own military escorts and security, I've decided to authorize five envoys to your conference. They will be traveling aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S Intrepid, and will be escorted by two Liner-class Warships, the U.S.S Charlotte-Anne and the U.S.S Sczechowski, as well as two as-of-yet unnamed Corvettes. The Envoys are as follows:

Mr. Vice President, my right-man hand, who is authorized to negotiate any treaties that may be required.
Ms. Erin Haywood, Head of the Department of Technological Research.
Lieutenant Aaron T. Booker of the U.S.S Sczechowski
Lieutenant Commander Charles C. Swain of the U.S.S Charlotte-Anne
and Lieutenant Michael D. Porter of the U.S.S Charlotte-Anne.

There will be much to discuss once there.

Thank you for this opportunity,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots



From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Minister Garcia,

Unfortunately, while the Patriots are interested in the negotiations over NSAFTA, we may be unable to attend due to prior commitment by our diplomats. Even my right-hand-man, Mr. Vice President, has been committed to another diplomatic conference. If the summit may be postponed, we can attend. However, as it is now, we would unfortunately have to bow out of the negotiations.

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

How will this H-Fuel thing work? I am interested in helping with it, but not sure what it'll look like mechanically and I am very new to the whole Total War thing. Thanks.
Reply letter handed to the Free Fleet captain (no mechanical impact).

We would be happy to aid in this project. Our supply of oil has been almost completely exhausted at this time so the development of an alternative fuel is especially of interest to us. Our researchers are currently gathering data on how we can be of service in this development process and we will contact you via radio once we have a plan. Thank you.
We of the Coastal Coalition would be pleased to participate in this summit once it has been organized.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia

In a conference with wide radio- and televised coverage, the Presidents of Russia and France have at last presented to the world the final form of the Paris Accords, with signal the foundation of a defensive alliance between the two nations. The negotiations regarding the agreement have been ongoing for some time now in high-level meetings between various officials of the two governments, but as the Presidents shake hands on camera, all signs point to both sides being happy with the results.

In a side comment from the Foreign Minister of Russia, a mention was made about clauses for other nations to potentially join either the Accords themselves through full agreement with all existing members or through bilateral negotiations with the suited parties. The intent of the Accords is officially to promote stability, reconstruction and the redevelopment of international ties, though most observers do note that both nations have cast a wary eye on Roman ambitions as of late.

[Falgorn]

The African Union
Sent Messages (Morale 3):
Your words are harsh, but, perhaps, they carry grains of truths within them. The African Union truly desires the reunification of the continent and the best for our peoples. In time, you may learn this, and we will give you the opportunity to consider our offer of joining. We retract our threats and offer our apologies. Unity, rather than division, will make our peoples strong.
We will begin soon, then! We believe that an alliance, a pact of mutual defense, would be most beneficial for protecting both of our interests. Your efforts against pirates are well-known and respected, but what of rogue nation states that would try to cripple our industries? By joining together in a military alliance, we can ensure our safety.
Greetings, friends! The African Union comes with an offer of peace. As representatives of former world powers, leaders in peace and innovation, I feel that we must, at the very least, agree not to declare war on each other. In addition, I advocate for a coalition between our forces. Combined, we have just military strength to beat back the Romans. I What I advocate for, to be clear, is not a war. The African Union has no desire or interest to go to war with Rome. However, if us three nations formed a coalition, a brief alliance against Rome, Rome would be unable to attack any of our countries without sustaining massive losses. This coalition would defend each of our nations. In addition, our geographic diversity gives us strength, in this instance. If the Romans attack France through the west, Switzlerland in the north can come to their aid. The opposite is also true. If Rome commits all of its forces to attacking you two, that would leave them completely unguarded from a naval invasion of Sicily and South Italy - surely, they would not leave themselves open like this. They would be spread too thin, and would be rendered unable to combat us. Do you find this plan agreeable?
Unfortunately, all of our diplomatic assets are out-of-state, and we find ourselves ill equipped to host a meeting now. We have reconsidered this matter, and send our ideas to you now.


An alliance between our two nations would prove fruitful. While we have not yet reclaimed Morocco or Algeria, let alone pushed farther east into Africa, the African Union's location is of strategic value. The Roman Empire represents a significant regional threat, and our location and forces would allow us to assist in a naval blockade/bombardment of Sicily and Southern Italy. Building off of this, an alliance between us would make us a significant power within the Mediterranean. Your warm-water ports in the Black Sea and our ports on the Western coast of Africa area not directly connected to the Mediterranean, limiting our influence and making our trade ships susceptible to attack. However, joint naval patrols and training would significantly alleviate this issue. I would argue that many of our countries' future successes rely on our ability to project power into the Mediterranean.

I hope that you consider this proposal, and the African Union thanks you for your patience.

Truly, tell us, your ships are powered by sail? The African Union still maintains use of coal and petroleum, however fuel-inefficient they are, for naval transit. Perhaps there is a way our two countries can settle this conflict together. An island nearby your coalition, Hispaniola, speaks of a need for liberation. The oppression of the Haitian people, the people who conducted the only successful slave revolution in recorded history, is unbearably tragic to us. We wish for Haiti to rejoin the African Union, and we had hoped to free the populations there from the tyranny the face currently. Any support you would be able to lend would be highly appreciated - in addition, the African Union would be able to more easily communicate and trade with your Coalition.
We would certainly like to participate in open dialogue, however, our envoys and leaders are currently dispatched on other diplomatic missions. If there are any proposals that you have, we would certainly be open to hearing them out from afar! If not, once our diplomats return from their respective missions, we will certainly dedicate efforts to strengthening our relations.

[Madwand]

Crown-Sanctuary of Iberia


Morale 2


To Imperium Romanum



Emperor of Rome,
In the light of recently signed Paris Accords, it would be ill-advised to start a land war with Russia-Paris axis. We will observe how the situation develop and deliberate on next step.
Signed,
King Sebastian I
OOC:I not going to war with another player right now and I didn't notice that France is full-fledged NPC:smalleek:


To South Africa and Egypt


We believe that it would be prudent to sign an defensive alliance declaration, similar to Paris Accords as a deterrence and then we could observe and react. Hopefully, the Union won't proceed and won't start the war. The Crown-Sanctuary do not wish to act as an aggressor in mediterranean region.
Signed,
King Sebastian I


To Order of the Southern Cross

We understand. Unfortunately, the Crown-Sanctuary is currently undertaking their own research project and we cannot participate in your conference.
Signed,
King Sebastian I

[The-lost-Byte]

Free Fleet
Moral 3

The free fleet thanks you for this offer of payment
STOP
Also, we dicline it
STOP
To save the life of innocent, we are willing to do this task for free
STOP
We fear, in this times your help will be needed soon
STOP
africa seems to be a big point of potential conflict
STOP
like it was in the past
END OF MESSAGE

OOC: the free fleet read the south african messages. we don't tell that anyone. i strictly divide IC and OCC knowlege, so we don't know about the AU and Egypt problem or what the AU did done to provocate this message of SA.
But the Message was obvious and refered nearly all the AU said earlyer, it was nearly as good es quoteing it directly.
SA's message to iberia rounded it up. evry Nation whit at least 2 espionage should know pretty mutch what is going on.

OOC: What Binks said.

The Free Fleet congratultes your for the first official defence-alliance in this new Era.
We think, this will inspire many other nations to simmelar actions.

The free fleet is willing to be part of a Defense pact
STOP
we should concider to add american nations intro this alliance
END OF MESSAGE



free fleet, atlantic
STOP
Europa seems about to claim down thanks to the russia-france alliance
STOP
We fear, africa becomes a to be a big point of potential conflict again
STOP
you should mabye concider an close contact to the second Nations
STOP
cooparation whit them would be a good step to help humans worldwide
END OF MESSAGE

[I]OOC: the free fleet read the south african messages. we don't tell that anyone. i strictly divide IC and OCC knowlege, so we don't know about the AU and Egypt problem or what the AU did done to provocate this message of SA.
But the Message was obvious and refered nearly all the AU said earlyer, it was nearly as good es quoteing it directly.
SA's message to iberia rounded it up. evry Nation whit at least 2 espionage should know pretty mutch what is going on.

[lukitux]

The Lodge

The security conference for NAFTA will be held, but it will be postponed because the Patriots can't attend and the Solaris Cult hasn't sent any messages

[Legionary]

The Order of the Southern Cross

Morale: 2
"This is message is intended for the "Free Fleet" of the Atlantic Ocean...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your acceptance of the Golden Dawn Summit invitation has been noted...

We hope for cooperation..."

"This is message is intended for the governing body of Rome...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your acceptance of the Golden Dawn Summit invitation has been noted...

We hope for cooperation..."

"This is message is intended for the governing body of Ethiopia...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your acceptance of the Golden Dawn Summit invitation has been noted...

We hope for cooperation..."

"This is message is intended for the governing body of New York...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your acceptance of the Golden Dawn Summit invitation has been noted...

We hope for cooperation..."

"This is message is intended for the governing body of South Africa...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your declination to the Golden Dawn Summit has been noted......

We hope for future cooperation..."

"This is message is intended for the governing body of Egypt...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your declination to the Golden Dawn Summit has been noted......

We hope for future cooperation..."

"This is message is intended for the governing body of Spain...

On behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross, greetings...

Your declination to the Golden Dawn Summit has been noted......

We hope for future cooperation..."


Attendees:
- The Order of the Southern Cross
- Free Fleet
- Imperium Romanum
- Ethiopia
- The Patriots
- The People's Republic of China
- The African Union (It was unclear whether or not you accepted so the offer to join in or decline is still there.)
- Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order (It was unclear whether or not you accepted so the offer to join in or decline is still there.)
- Solarius Cult (It was unclear whether or not you accepted so the offer to join in or decline is still there.)

"Greeting dignitaries and on behalf of the Order of the Southern Cross I welcome you to the Golden Dawn Summit," announces a slender woman in a red dress as he takes to the podium. She appears to be same one from the hologram invitation, however it is hard to tell with the bizarre breathing apparatus on her face. "I am Arch-Hospitaller Eva Haus of the Order of the Southern Cross Hospitaller division, our diplomatic corps so to speak." The spacious conference room's crisp white architecture reinforces the Order's futuristic yet cold and emotionless image. The Arch-Hospitaller's company includes a small entourage of fellow Hospitaller diplomats that tend to their guests, as well as several exosuit wearing soldiers that stand like statues around the facility.

"The purpose of this summit is to offer your nation-states the unique opportunity to participate in the Golden Dawn Concord. The Golden Dawn Concord is a research sharing project intended to enable certain nation-states will low capacities for scientific development a rare opportunity to exponentially increase their technological gains. In the simplest sense, the Golden Dawn Concord works by members donating fraction of their otherwise limited scientific potential to the Order of the Southern Cross. The Order then pools these resources along with their own more advanced facilities and staff to create new technologies. Then we share the fruits of our work and your raw input with all the signatories of the Golden Dawn Concord. The Order of the Southern Cross will have the final veto on which particular projects to pursue with the pooled resourced, however all members who be encouraged to provide input as to which directions they feel the research would be most beneficial."

"Undoubtedly savvy individual like yourselves may be contemplating why do you need the Order of the Southern Cross for this research sharing program? Why not create such a program between yourselves and without our strict supervision?" states Haus rhetorically. "Well the answer is simple. When we said the Order of the Southern Cross was the most technologically advanced institution on this planet we were not stroking our egos with hollow boasts. This is a matter of objective fact. As such the Order of the Southern Cross will not donate a meagre equal share to this research program. No, as its patrons we will instead donate a third of all necessary resources, regardless of the size and number of participates in this project." Haus pauses for a second to allow the significance of the Order's contribution sink in. "To give you sense of scale, if just two nations choose to invest in this project they would each get a 300 percent return on their investment. If six nations choose to invest in this project they would each get a 900 percent return on their investment."

"There is one clause to the Golden Dawn Concord that we feel it is pertinent to address immediately. The Golden Dawn Concord clearly states that the Order of the Southern Cross will not use these technological assets to produce advanced military assets. Now I can already see the disdain the faces of some you. Even in the face of such generous opportunity, warmongering and greed blinds some of you. So let us be clear on the implications of this clause now. The Order of the Southern Cross will not share advanced military technologies. Direct assets like Gauss weaponry, infantry exosuits or advanced VTOL aircrafts are off limits. However, we take no issue with participating nations using the superior technologies we bestow to produce their own military assets. Let those possibilities guide your decision. Imperium Romanum. Genetically modified crops could feed your entire legions. American Patriots. With fusion power your army's logical issues could be thing of the past. China. With our superior automated assembly lines your factories could roll out new tanks out at a rate of tenfold. The applications are endless and we are indifferent if you wish to apply them to your own military endeavours."

"Likewise, we should note. The Golden Dawn Concord is purely a research project only. This is not an alliance between states. It is not a non-aggression pact or anything else of that nature. Indeed, the Order of the Southern Cross doesn't not care if two signatories are at war with each other, so long as they both pay their dues. The purpose of this is scientific enlightenment, nothing more," clarifies Haus in her confident yet athoritative tone. "You can leave the program at your own discretion, however we stress that re-entry may be subject to greater scrutiny. Likewise, membership in the Golden Dawn Concord will be terminated for acts of espionage against our institution or if the technologies we bless you with are shared with any other nations that are not signatories. We stress that last point," emphasises Haus sternly.

"We will offer further clarification on any of the mechanisms of this program, however the Order of the Southern Cross will not negotiate it's set terms. This is an ultimatum, you may accept and step forward in the future or are free to decline and remain with what little technological scraps you can savage from the carcass of the old world."

"We hope for cooperation..." states Haus bluntly in the Order's typical fashion.

OOC:
Just in case anyone his having trouble with understanding the Golden Dawn Concord, the pact is simple.
Every turn you pay the Order of the Southern Cross a meagre 1 research point.
These research points are pooled together to fund and then share bigger or numerous research projects than you could otherwise never afford.
For every 2 points in the research point pool the Order of the Southern Cross donates 1 point, effectively footing a third of the entire project's cost.
So for example if 4 countries joined and you all spend that 1 research point, the Order of the Southern Cross would donate 2 research points, making the total pool 6 research points. Getting 6 research points worth of technology for just investing 1 point is a hell of a return if I do say so myself.

http://s33.postimg.org/8jg21kv67/oosc2.png
Left to Right: A Knight of the Southern Cross (Militant Branch), Arch-Hospitaller Eva Haus, a Hospitaller of the Southern Cross (Diplomatic Branch)

[Thelonius]

Solarius Cult

Lodge [7]

Warmth and Glory, Prime Minister Garcia,

We are prepared to discuss this NSAFTA, however, you would need to present good arguments in favor of open trade. Our industry is not in a good shape and open competition will do it no favors. The Solarius Cult favors protectionism at the moment, to nurture our land.

Chosen of The Sun, Luiza Monteiro.

[Andre]

HOSPITALLER ORDER

mor 4

We lack a research department, nor do we have scientists available to attend such a meeting.

Our ports are open to your trading vessels. Our lands can offer a great variety of quality agrumes (lemons, oranges, clementines etc.) who can improve significantly the diet and health of the people aboard your fleet, and the famous cedars of Lebanon are extremely valuable.

I second your concerns about Africa becoming once again a battleground, but it would seem that no nation there has the strength to overcome its neighbours quickly unless they receive significant help from outside the continent. Do let us know if you suspect foul play incoming, but be forewarned that our own status quo at home may prevent the intervention of our aid workers.
Frà Tomàs

Greetings of the Order to the allied nations of France and Russia. In the spirit of cooperation and to further our humanitarian goals by forging closer diplomatic ties, we would like to establish an embassy in both Paris and Moskva.

Greetings of the Order to those who walk the earth freely, and may the fruits of your land ever be plentiful. We are contacting you at the behest of our intermediary, the Free Fleet, who recommended that we establish contact.

[The-lost-Byte]

Free Fleet

OOC: Did you not notice or ignore the golden dawn summit?
If first, you can still join or dicline.
If second, write OOC that you ignore it. So that we can clear you of our list


Attendees:
- The Order of the Southern Cross
- Free Fleet
- Imperium Romanum
- Ethiopia
- The Patriots
- The People's Republic of China
- The African Union (Unclear)
- Solarius Cult (Unclear; not sure if they didn't notice or ignore it)

While the 'Arch-Hospitaller' Eva Haus was speaking, the 3 representans of the free fleet was just sitting there, noded and write a few notes. Mrs Schmitt and the two scientist was wearing white, plain naval uniforms and old fashioned gas masks, last was a reason of saftey, because all of the order was wearing such mask. Mabye the air was more toxic in thyr region?

After the obligatory "We hope for cooperation..." gave Dr Kevin and Mrs Chung theyr notes to theyr leader. She did read them and than stand up to speak. After she take of the mask, the Voice war clear:
"My name is Maria Schmitt, i am the current leader of the free fleet and iceland. Even if the point that didn't allow us to share is not in our best intrest, we see more benefits than problens whit this program. We accept to all terms. Our scientist are few, so we see in this a great investion."

Mrs. Maria Schmitt - leader of the free fleet
Dr. Kevin von Stern - leader of iceland reserch labs
Mrs. Chung Delci - representant of ASD (air and sea development)

The Free Fleet is now official part of the Golden Dawn Concord.
Also, we wounder why the order is wearing gas masks. That should be noted in your background, even if we, the other nations, don't know why.
Is it a high amount of toxic in theyr air? Paranoia about the possebility of a ABC-War? Was they once involved in such a war?
A idea for a project will be named after the other nations made theyr replys.


Moral 3

Free Fleet
STOP
in the old world, no nation was sucessful, eighter
STOP
if your status becomes a problem, will we aid your efforts whit our own possebilitys
STOP
should we get more informations, you whould be informed first
END OF MESSAGE

[Thelonius]

Solarius Cult

Golden Dawn Summit

[OOC: Missed the invitation. Solarius is attending.]

[Emperor Demonking]

Mann's Piety

Druid Timothy wanted to have an impressive celebration for the new year. Still, he was advidsed against it; It was important for the nation to show a stoic face, particularly with the economy being so poor. Druid Timothy was convinced, thus the nation continued in almost silence.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to Hospitaller Order

This is acceptable. We will, of course, do the same.

[ArcaneStomper]

Imperium Romanum to the Patriots
All well and good, but you also mentioned needing the aid of our legions. What military adventures are you planning that would involve us?

--------

The Coastal Coalition and Free Fleet (GM)
A joint project requires that both participants work on it with each other. The stats they put in will then receive a small bonus and the resulting gains will be split evenly between the parties. It is also possible for the results to be split at a certain ratio if both parties agree to it. For instance party getting twice as much as another.

Example:
Faction A and Faction B agree to do a joint research project. They each put in 8 research points. The total of 16 is multiplied by the joint bonus factor of 20%. The result is 20 investment points. This is split 10 to Faction A and 10 to Faction B. So both will receive a stat point.

--------

South Africa to the African Union
We are glad that you can see the error of your ways.

France, Switzerland, African Union: Swiss Closed Door Meeting (PM)
France: We would be happy to aid in such an agreement of mutual defense. We have already signed one such with Russia. Perhaps they would also be interested in signing one with you.

Switzerland: There is a difference between non aggression and mutual defense against a specific third party. Switzerland remains neutral and will not be involved in such a coalition. We would however be willing to mediate between Rome and the African Union to come to an agreeable non aggression pact between you both.

--------

Golden Dawn Summit (PM)
Imperium Romanum: That sounds acceptable to us. We agree to this accord.

Ethiopia: We do not see how this would be helpful to the Southern Cross. It seems that you are doing all the work for no recompense. And very few are willing to be so generous in the modern world.

(GM: Research isn't free. If several powers all work on a project, then they will split the results not each get a full copy. There is a small bonus to working together, but it isn't the same as everyone getting the equivalent of 6 research points like this seems to be saying.

Example:
Faction A and Faction B agree to do a joint research project. They each put in 8 research points. The total of 16 is multiplied by the joint bonus factor of 20%. The result is 20 investment points. This is split 10 to Faction A and 10 to Faction B. So both will receive a stat point.

But it won't result in Faction A and Faction B both receiving the benefit of 16 points of research.)

--------

France to the Hospitaller Order
You are welcome to set up an embassy in Paris.

--------

Imperium Romanum to Crown-Sanctuary of Iberia
We would agree that it is not yet time to expand the empire into Russia. But there are many other countries in Europe that are not so defended. We could for instance liberate the ruins of Germany from their warlord oppressors.

South Africa and Egypt to the Crown-Sanctuary of Iberia
South Africa: We could agree to a mutual defense pact.

Egypt: The Great and Powerful Pharaoh thinks that you are not bold enough. We should invade the African Union and teach them that they are not the kings of Africa that they think they are.

South Africa: We aren't prepared to go that far.

Egypt: You will never get anywhere if you are afraid of taking action.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
Our scientists have expressed an interest in aiding your H-Fuel project. While we cannot dedicate our full efforts to this at this time, due to the need to perform our own research projects, we have already begun working on means of safely moving large stores hydrogen fuel. We look forward to working together in the future. Our ability to aid is limited at the moment but we are working towards expanding our lab space to house more areas for this type of joint research in the coming weeks and months.

(OOC: Will commit 2 points of Research to this project this turn, all I can spare at the moment with other needs, expect more in the future)

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achaemenid Empire

Morale 3

The Haute Cour is wise and the people in the protection of your order blessed. The King of Kings will gladly hold private conferences if that is your desire.

There are still many portions of his lands which have not had time to fully enjoy the benefits of his rule, and if you should exert yourselves for there benefit he would, without any doubt, provide suitable compensation and funding to you in return.

OOC: Joint econ project fluffed as development aid

Your's are a fortunate people to be so wisely governed. It is agreeable to to the king of lands to forego claims to the Balkan Peninsula, excepting the portion which previously belonged to Turkey for the sake of the cultural legacy of his people which includes Istanbul and environs.

Regarding better ties, the great king has considered the possibility of connecting oil and natural gas pipelines between our nations to allow the relative abundance of both resources to be more evenly distributed to our people and to facilitate energy negotiations with our neighbors.

OOC: Joint economic project. Say, 2 or 3 econ each with a clause in the EoT about matching whatever the other put in?

It is agreeable to the the king of lands to receive your emissaries or dispatch an embassy to you, whichever shall be most allay any security concerns you might have.

OOC: If you haven't engaged in a PM conference this turn that would be fine.

Blessed by the lord of the two lands in his coming and in his going, in his rising and in his sitting, in his waking and in his sleeping.

There are certain subjects of the king of lands who declare themselves to be Egyptian, according the reaches of the governance of the two lands in antiquity. The king of lands will swear to Ahura Mazda that he has not intentions on your lands. If it is still disagreeable to you that there are those of his subjects who call themselves Egyptian he will deal with them until mere words no longer bar peace between the king of lands and the great king of Egypt.

[Nemesis67]

Rime Conglomerate

Hospillatar Order, Free Fleet, New Horizons

The Hospitaller Order recognizes kindred spirits in your organizations, and is pleased to know about the relief efforts you carried out so far. Should you ever want to cooperate, know that our doors are always open to your ambassadors.

We will make the same offer. The world must be rebuilt, piece by piece.

Free Fleet

here the free fleet, island
STOP
we are interested in the succeed of your goals
STOP
to avoid misconceptions on the high seas
STOP
would we like to have a detection signal between our fleets
STOP
hope to reach an agreement
END OF MESSAGE

We have no problem with cooperating on the seas. Our interests are aligned on many matters. We'll share a detection signal on our ships.

Second Nations, Free Fleet, Pheonix Compact, Federation of Surviving States

We of the Second Nations offer sanctuary to those displaced by war, disease, famine, and the unpredictable turns of Mother Earth. Accordingly we are willing to compensate you for the safe transportation of such persons to our territory.

If a crisis looms, the Conglomerate will assist.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia - Neo-Achaemenid Empire

This is an acceptable proposal. The infrastructure is old and in grievous disrepair in many places, so working to repair and reconnect the network will quite likely prove to be very useful.

((3 Econ from each is okay with me.))

[smasher0404]

The Patriots (Morale 5)
Messages


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Emperor of Rome,
As you probably have gleaned from our prior communications, the Patriots are seeking to expand our territory. Specifically, we are aiming to reclaim the core of our nation, the original 13 colonies. While our forces should suffice, the addition of your forces should be able to intimidate other major factions from attempting any counter-military offensive to keep this expansion from happening. Hopefully, our forces will not suffer any undue casualties.
Sincerely,
Mr. President


Having recently departed from the U.S.S Intrepid, the military officers among the diplomatic envoy eagerly encouraged Mr. Vice President to sign the documents. However, Erin Haywood, head of the Patriot's Department of Technological Research was hesitant.

"What specific constraints will be placed on our research? You mentioned that we are not allowed to develop any technology with direct military applications like weapons or armor, but in my own opinion, virtually anything can be defined as having direct applications to military. If we design faster ships, for example, it speeds along trade and promotes economic growth, however it also directly strengthens one's naval forces. It is important that we establish what the exact restrictions are, before we agree to such an accord"

[ArcaneStomper]

Egypt to the Neo-Archaemenid Empire
We do not recognize the previous borders of Antiquity to be valid, and thus we make no claim to them nor to any on them who may call themselves Egyptian, though they are not in fact subjects of the Great and Power Pharaoh. We however require that you also not name them to be Egypt for the purpose of claiming dominion over them. For only the Great and Powerful Pharaoh may have dominion over Egypt, and all that is Egypt falls under his supreme rule.

-----

Imperium Romanum to the Patriots
And how many of Caesar's legions would you require for this endeavor?

[smasher0404]

The Patriots (Morale 5)
Message

From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Emperor of Rome,
In reality we only need one or two of your legions, however we are willing to increase our research payments the more troops you are willing to lend us.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots

What I'm proposing in-game terms is that I'm giving 1 point of research away for any military support, for each additional point of military loaned, The Patriots will increase the fraction of their research given away (Giving away 1/(10-Military Given) of their research benefits).
For example:
If Rome gives the Patriots 1 point of military, the Patriots will return with 1 point of research, and will donate 1/9th of their future research benefits to Rome (give one away, keep 8 for the Patriots)
If Rome gives the Patriots 2 points of military, the Patriots will return with 1 point of research, and will donate 1/8th of their future research benefits to Rome (give one turns worth away, keep 7 for the Patriots).
Etc.

If Rome wishes for 2 points of research, the future research benefits will be halved to compensate.

[ArcaneStomper]

Imperium Romanum to the Patriots
We agree to this.

[Andre]

HOSPITALLER ORDER

mor 4

[PM]

An unassuming knight, dressed for the road in travel essentials but for the massive cloak sporting the maltese cross, makes his way to Parsa. He seeks an audience, claiming to bear a proposal from the Grand Master himself, and carries a small envelope containing a letter that simply reads:
Very well, we will make preparations to dispatch our aid workers. I trust the King of Kings will be pleased by our infrastructure and development projects. Frà Tomàs

With due courtesies to observe, it takes a while before the Knight gets to the point, but the proposal is quite bold. To foster absolute trust between the Grand Master and the King of Kings, he suggests that any communication that has been, or to be had by either with other entities be secretely disclosed. The trust fostered would also enable two rather weak intelligence services to work much closely together; perhaps they would be more effective at gleaning information from foreign communications that way.
OOC: Econ proposal accepted. I'm rather talking out of my ass for the other little scheme as I doubt Arcane will allow it. Basically the first part of it is simple enough; we can read each other's messages, but the countries who send them don't know about that, which is pretty good on its own. now onto the other part - since this can be fluffed as essentially sharing all comms between our esp forces, I was thinking they could basically pool their passive esp. (so both of us can read MOR 2 and lower messages and I would get another point of ESP when possible so we could grasp MOR 3 comms as well) - I understand if we can't do this, looks gamebreaking enough if people with higher ESP would start doing it after all. The comms disclosure still holds merit even without the second part though.

[Madwand]

Crown-Sanctuary of Iberia

MOR 2


Pacifying Germany' warlords seems like better idea.
OOC: more in EoT/



We should not make a hasty decision like it before we gather more informations. Should we meet [next turn] in more private conference? It may be that we will have an additional ally.

[ArcaneStomper]

HOSPITALLER ORDER, Neo-Achaemenid Empire (GM)
OOC: Do you mean if one person can read a message both of you can. Sure that's possible. It would just be the higher espionage faction sending copies of all the messages they read to the other country.

South Africa and Egypt to the Crown Sanctuary of Iberia
South Africa: We can agree to future discussions.

Egypt: A representative of the Great and Powerful Pharaoh will attend.

[Exthalion]

HOSPITALLER ORDER, Neo-Achaemenid Empire (GM)
That was my reading also, but what about the more complicated option? What about pooling our esp to create what in fluff would be a single, integrated, intelligence network? Would that provide an effectively higher esp for each of us while increasing vulnerability from the other party?

Model wise, it might work something like creating a third faction with all our esp that existed just to read other people's messages and send us copies.

[ArcaneStomper]

HOSPITALLER ORDER, Neo-Achaemenid Empire (GM)
Making a third dummy faction is how I would do it. Which would require a lot of trust as integrating that fully would extend beyond just message reading.

[Andre]

Hospitaller Order, Neo-Achaemenid Empire [GM] That was the idea, pooling our considerable esp together for the purpose of reading messages, though I suppose an integrated esp could be used for other stuff as well. If that's not possible, or we don't agree to it, then my 2nd proposal is a simple "Ex can read all the messages I exchange with other people regardless of mor-esp, and so can I with his own".]

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achaemenid Empire Morale 5

The king of lands has weight all that was discussed and accedes to the second proposal you offered up to him. Until Ahura-Mazda give a sign, or his advisory council prepare reports on the first presentation he cannot, at this time, agree.

OOC: I don't think the conversation is private any longer.

Haxamanis, the king, the great king, the king of lands, king of Persia, king in Parsa:

As the keys of the Black Sea gates are in the hands of the great king, there may be no exchange of goods or people's between the Russias and the Kings of the Hospitalars save by his leave. The king of land, beloved of Ahura-Mazda, desires that there should be friendship between his friends and therefore proposes to unbar the gates to permit traffic of ships and the opening of the routes for planes over his lands to facilitate the prosperity of these three lands.

OOC: Given that joint project appear to add extra points at a rate of (participants*10)% by forming a joint economic partnership we could reap a higher bonus. If we each contribute 3 points of econ, the result would be be 12 points of gain. In effect, it would give us all an extra point of econ per turn.

I notice that the Hospitilars only had 2 econ at the start of the game. If you have 1 more now great. If not, we could work something out.

[lukitux]

The Lodge

The State of the Nation address was a speech every prime minister gave two years into their term. Prime Minister Garcia once again broadcast a countrywide radio speech, this time after a thorough inspection of the broadcast tower and all recording equipment done by the Broadcast Inspection Parliamentary Subcommittee.

phase one of the Transnational Railway Initiative was already complete. A railway between the largest mining city and the capital has already been built, and the Volunteer Railway Organization has already produced the materials for the second branch of the railway and we will begin laying the rails as soon as possible. We are also going to be hosting a meeting to discuss the NSAFTA accords, which will hopefully allow free trade between all North American and South American nations. Thank you for your continued support, and a special thanks to the members of the Volunteer Railway Organization, your work to bring prosperity to the people of the nation has not gone unnoticed. Prime Minister Garcia out.

Morale 2

The Lodge will be hosting a meeting to discuss the North and South American Free Trade Agreement. We will discuss potential solutions to the issue of security along with any other concerns. Hopefully, by the end of the meeting we will be able to establish free trade between these two continents.

[ArcaneStomper]

Turn 2

January 1st, 2101

Expansionism
In Europe the many small city states, conclaves, and warlord fiefdoms are under siege. In the east the new Russian state tightens it's grip on the continent and forces the old isolationist cities to open their borders. In the Aegean the Hospitaller Order establishes missions and fights warlords to bring a sense of safety to the region. And in the German territories the combined forces of Iberia and Rome swiftly march through state after state to establish a new ruling order and divide the region between their empires.

Similarly in the American Northeast the Patriots have been on the move. Refusing to accept the presence of warlords and bandits infringing on their territory they have begun to expand throughout the surrounding areas and bring order to the new world. Many decry these nations as simply being opportunistic, but there is no denying that that the areas they have taken over have a more modern standard of living than before.

Black Market
Rumors are rounding the world of a new kind of economy. One that operates in the shadows and offers wares of a less than legal nature. Of course new is a misnomer. Smugglers and criminals have been operating since the dawn of civilization. But what is new is the scope of the services for sale. For the right price state secrets can be bought. Mercenaries enough to fight an army can be hired. Governments can be overthrown. The shadowy cabals offer anything and everything to those willing to pay their dues.

[Andre]

HOSPITALLER ORDER

OOC: Arcane mentioned stats weigh pretty much the same in this kinda TW, so pretty sure there wouldn't be any problem if I invested 1 MOR in addition to the ECO.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Comandante Leon and his government has not made any noticeable impacts on the world stage. Sticking to their somewhat isolationist position, they merely watched as other powers made the first move. Lions were known to be patient hunters after all, and as the new year set in, he began to call in his advisers more frequently, and the Compact began to stir restlessly...

Publicly the Compact took a position of neutrality on the Patriot's expansion into Warlord territories, though in essence by not taking a stance against them were giving their consent in practice.

Morale: 3
The Phoenix Compact is sending a few representatives to the Lodge's meeting. A couple of their economic experts, a military adviser, and some security personnel for all three. The Compact is upfront about their initial position and concerns.

Their initial position is that trade will be better done by individual nations to other individual nations. It ensures that each nation has the freedom to choose its partners, and is not pressured into a difficult circumstance to give trust that's unearned. However, as a sovereign nation of the Americas, the Compact feels compelled to take part, and is willing to change its mind as long as the following are addressed.

-A means to protect nations from espionage that hides under mass trade is considered
-A means to protect nations from economic sabotage is considered
-A means for nations to opt out either fully or partially due to military conflict and war (first brought up by the Patriots)
-An allowance of individual nations to make their own separate partnership and trade deals on the side on top of any agreement made by the summit
-That this agreement has no military or otherwise aggressive agenda in it. The Compact will not take part in a large scale west vs. east movement, and neither does it want Eurasian and African powers to feel threatened by speculation and paranoia.

As the Patriots are removing Warlord territories around their borders, the Compact is considering doing the same. Although the Compact has not committed to any action yet, we feel it important to give fair warning to prevent any misunderstandings should we decide to take military actions to deal anarchic regions around our current territory.

[Binks]

It was a cold and rainy January 1st, a storm having rolled in the night before and dampened much of the traditional New Year celebrations in the capital of the Coastal Coalition. Despite the drizzle and the chill, however, many citizens had trekked across the city in the early morning to reach the capital building conference room and hear the annual presidential address for the new year. Experts had predicted a much smaller and more focused address than the last year's events but neither the predictions nor the weather could do anything to stop the citizens of the Coastal Coalition from coming to hear their president's speech.

President Alejándro
"Good day friends. In light of the weather here in the capital I will be brief so that you may all return to your warm homes as quickly as possible."

"It has been an interesting year for our peoples, as we have looked out beyond our borders to what is transpiring within the larger world we dwell in. We have been exceedingly fortunate to encounter many governments with similar goals of peace and brotherhood to our own. I would specifically like to call out the peoples of The Free Fleet, whose ships many of you have seen coming and going from our ports, for their generous offers of friendship and cooperation with restoring international trade, and the peoples of the African Union whose offer of open trade has led to an improved quality of life for many people within our nation. While our own production centers are good it would be the height of foolishness to assume we had a monopoly on skill, and our trade with the Union has demonstrated this."

"We have also been fortunate, as a people, to encounter many other peaceful governments with whom we are able to peaceful coexist. While factions such as the Phoenix Compact, the Lodge, and many others may not be as open with their friendship as The Free Fleet or African Union we have found them to be great neighbors, and hope that we can continue to remain at peace with them."

"Of course, with good news there is always bad and it seems that there are several aggressive and expansionist factions active within the larger world. As I have noted in the past our diplomatic overtures to the Patriots have been rejected and with their constant expansion it seems we may be on a collision course at some point. The Coalition will never wish for war between factions, but know that your leaders are prepared for this eventuality and are working to develop weapons and tactics of defense to guard our territory from any who would threaten it."

"Before I close my speech I would like to offer thanks to the people and businesses of the Coastal Coalition. Thanks to your hard work and dedication our research facilities have been expanded, under the guidance of our top scientists, into something we can be proud of. While we still have a ways to go before we will be able to achieve our dreams of reaching towards to stars the past year has seen us make tremendous progress in that area."

"Thank you."

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
The Coastal Coalition will send representatives to this meeting. We hope that the issues at hand can be resolved and all of our peoples will be able to benefit from free and open trade across the continents.
The Coalition has no issues with your plans to remove potential threats around your territory. We thank you for informing us ahead of time of your intentions.
With the dawn of a new year I have spoken with our scientists and they believe our current expansion process for our research facilities is nearing an end. You had offered, previously, to discuss the possibility of an economic / research exchange program which unfortunately did not fit with our plans as we required our scientists for our expansion. With the completion of our project and the opening of regular trade with your far faster ships, however, we would love to discuss such an exchange. If you could provide me the details on what you propose we would be open to furthering our people's cooperation with one another.
With the dawn of a new year I have spoken with our scientists regarding the progress that has been made on the fuel cells project. While the Coalition was only able to dedicate a small effort towards it last year, due to our expansion project, I would like to formally assure you that it will be our top research priority for this year. We hope we can make great strides towards developing this technology in the coming year and that our expanded research facilities will be of great use.

[Murska]

Neo-Achaeminid Empire, Hospitallers

I am pleased to accept this proposal on our part.

[HerbieRAI]

The Illuminati

To the Phoenix Compact (DESP 2)

Your right to worry about espionage hiding in mass trade, are you willing to expand your trade circle to include parts of europe? We may be able to work out a deal to help both our peoples.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots

As the Patriots troops marched through the reclaimed state of Pennsylvania, Mr. President looked out the Empire State House. Soon he rose and stood at the podium on top of the building, as new reporters filled the floor.

"As many of you know, we, the true people of the US of A, have recently reclaimed the great state of Pennsylvania, with all of its cultural and economic significance. This would not have been possible without the aid of the Imperium Romanum. We hereby swear an oath of defense for them, if they should ever need our aid, the forces of the Patriots will come save them.

We would also like to announce that we will be continuing our expansion. We hope to reclaim all of the original 13 colonies soon. For those that would oppose us, I have only one thing to say: Surrender peacefully and you will be welcomed into our arms as fellow Patriots, oppose us, and watch all of your military be destroyed by our might, and your families spread across the empire. Betray us? And you will face the massacre of all your people. I hope your governments make the right decision.

In conclusion, we would like to welcome in the New Year, and to a new year of prosperity for the true Patriots of America."

Morale 5

From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Emperor of the Roman Empire,
We would like to thank you for your military aid, if you need any help from us in the future, feel free to ask.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
Leader of the Patriots


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Leaders of North and South America
We are willing to send a representative to a conference to negotiate the terms of a potential trade agreement
Sincerely,
Mr. President.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale 3
The Compact's open to trade with European powers. What are your thoughts on a mutually beneficial deal? Unless we're mistaken, you have one of the strongest espionage networks in the world.

You mentioned that diplomatic efforts with the Patriots had failed. If you are willing, we would hear the details of the exchange to better understand the situation in your part of the continent.

[Andre]

HOSPITALLER ORDER

I reckon the Haute Cour would be pleased to sign this treaty. Frà Tomàs

[Binks]

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
We would be happy to share this information with you, in the hopes that your people will not be caught off guard by Patriot aggression. It seems that, for the moment at least, neither of us needs to worry about their expansion as they will be occupying themselves with the unclaimed eastern seaboard, but I have no doubt, based on our prior conversions, that they intend to 'reclaim' all territory of the former United States and will stop at nothing to do so.

The full transcripts of our conversations are reproduced below. I hope they will be of use to you.

First Message from the Coalition to the Patriots
Greetings. We of the Coastal Coalition would like to extend an olive branch. We acknowledge your rule over the territories of the north eastern seaboard and ask merely that you grant us the same courtesy. We request an opportunity to discuss a treaty of non-aggression with your people as we feel it would be in both of our best interests to waste time fighting one another.

Patriot Response
From the Office of Mr. President

Dear Mr. Alejandro,

While it is saddening to see the great state of Florida fall into a sort of Commie organization, we are willing to consider negotiations of Florida's sovereignty, in exchange for some of your valuable Research technology. In exchange, the people of the Patriots will not raid your lands and take back what is rightfully ours, and may lend some of our military forces to ensure its defense from other would-be invaders while you grow your defenses.

- Mr. President
President of the Patriots

Coalition Response
While we are certainly willing to negotiate with your people it does not seem like we have gotten off to a good start. I apologize for any confusion from my initial correspondence, but I'm afraid we are not currently seeking protection. Instead we merely wish to establish agreements of non-aggression with our neighbors. If that is agreeable to you we can move forward with any specific negotiations. Thank you for your time.

Patriot Response
From the Office of Mr. President

Dear Mr. Alejandro

I am quite aware you wish for us to recognize your "nation's" sovereignty. While we, The Patriots, are willing to consider it, we require you to donate to us some of your research designs. If you wish for it, we are also willing to provide some military support, if you are invaded. That is our offer, if you have a better one, I'm willing to hear it.

From,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots

Coalition Response
It saddens me greatly to hear that you wish to begin this new century on such an antagonistic note. The Coastal Coalition is not willing to pay any form of tribute to your people. I will ask once more that you restrict your military forces from operating within our borders. I do not expect you to heed this request but it will be made all the same. With the world in the shape it is in, can you really afford to go out of your way to make enemies Mr. President?


There was no response from the Patriots to our final message and they have effectively cut diplomatic ties with us since then. As I hope you can see (and I encourage you that, if you have any doubts as to the veracity of this transcript, that you find whatever means you would trust to verify them) we attempted to be diplomatic and reasonably and our requests of the Patriots were minimal.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

To the Pheonix Compact (DESP 2)

Thats the funny thing about espionage, you're never really able to tell how well equiped you are compared to others.

We know you have been creating a trade coalition among American nations, and we would like to join. We've been trying to build up our economy for a few years with limited success, and I believe the best way forward would be to find trade partners across the seas. Also, if the gathering with the Lodge seems to be going well, we are willing to join and help with the security matters. As we are not part of North or South America, we are not currently invited.

[ArcaneStomper]

Imperium Romanum to the Patriots
The legions of Ceaser are more than willing to aid the allies of Rome. We only ask that you remember your own side of the deal.

[The-lost-Byte]

Free Fleet
OOC: I am unable to do much roleplay at the moment. My Internet-connection is failing at all times...

Moral 3

The small corvett, now the official diplomatic ship of the Free Fleet for CC-Contact, entered once again the ports at Cape Canaveral.

Greetings mr. Alejándro.
We am sorry to say, that we must make this message short, but first:
Thank you for the friendly words about the African Union and us in your speech. It isn't to much to assume, if we say that this anouncments at the start of the year are listen world wide and are a source of light, even on rainy days.

The importent thing is that the H-Fuel project should be finnished to the end of 2101. Our process in the last year was rather small, but the first step is allways the hardest. We are trying to speed up the process by hiring external, neutral scientists.

Whit good Wishes
-the Free Fleet

[ArcaneStomper]

Turn 3

January 1st, 2102

The Reach of Civilization
In stark contrast to the last few decades of isolation and reconstruction the nations of modern times have embarked on campaigns of expansion. They are n longer willing to idly sit by while neighboring warlords terrorized their people, and starving substinence farmers were unable to provide for their people.

In the Americas this has showcased itself in the Patriots who have steadily marched down the eastern seaboard. Washington, capitol of the old Americas, is now in their hands and they have proudly proclaimed this as proof of their legitimacy and inheritance of the mantle of leadership. Further south the Solarius cult has extended it's grip over Panama and have taken efforts to reopen the dilapidated canal and revitalize oceanic trade.

In Europe Rome has expanded its borders once again throughout the central European states, while on the other side of the continent Novaya Russia has brought many of more fractious warlords back into line. And in the Middle East the Noe-Archaemenid empire has made alliances with the surrounding tribes and villages. It has made an effort to treat even the poorest of its neighbors as an equal, but everyone knows that the empire is the senior partner in these alliances.

Africa is more contentious. The African Union, Egyptian Kingdom, and South Africa have all been steadily expanding into surrounding territories. There have been no overt hostilities yet, but many believe that it is only a matter of time before they run out of elbow room and their borders meet.

The Clash of Civilizations
Even that however is not as fractious as some areas. The entire Asian sphere is currently in a tense stand off between Japan, China, and the Order of the Southern Cross. None dare to make a move on their own less powerful neighbors for fear it would leave them open to a surprise attack.

In the Americas many of the other nations are taking the Patriots expansion poorly and there has been a steady expansion of military capabilities across the continent. It seems only a matter of time before one country or another takes offense to some slight and plunges the continent into bloody violence.

But perhaps the worst area is the border between France and the Imperium. France has already felt pressure being surrounding by Madrid, Italy, and their new German territories. But a recent series of espionage failures on both sides of the border between France and the Imperium has ratcheted tension up almost to open warfare. The intervention of Switzerland has kept the incident from escalating to a hot war, but the entire border is rapidly being fortified by both sides.

[Binks]

January 1st 2102 dawned over the territory of the Coastal Coalition with beautiful sunshine (other than the western half of Cuba, which saw the last receding clouds from a major storm front), slightly warmer than average temperatures, and an overall feeling of optimism in the air. In what most journalists had called a 'blatant political move' the traditional presidential address had been moved to an outdoor theater setup overlooking the harbor where dozens of ships, Coalition, African Union, and Free Fleet alike, could be seen moving about.

President Alejándro
"Welcome all. I am pleased to see so many people came to join me here to enjoy the beautiful, if a bit chilly, weather."

"The last year has seem so much growth for our people that it would be difficult to put it all in words. At least, not without boring you to death with a couple hour speech (chuckling). But I shall endeavor to keep you all informed without too much boredom."

"The biggest news for our people can be seen behind me, in the harbor, where our ships once more move about without sail power. This could not have been achieved without the tremendous aid of our friends from the Free Fleet whose initial designs for hydrogen powered engines started this whole effort. Our own scientists worked tirelessly with their teams to develop and perfect this technology and now we can reap the benefits. Our internal trade has been vastly improved by the quicker ship engines, so we can now move fresh fruits around without them going bad in the hold, and our trade ships sent to the Free Fleet and our friends the African Union can now make the trip in days rather than weeks."

"I cannot state enough how much this project has helped our people, and I hope we all remember to thank our researchers and the people of the Free Fleet for their efforts on this project."

"On to other matters. As most of you know we have begun a push to increase the size of our military. I have heard some concerns around this, so let me reassure you that this is purely a defensive measure. We are growing concerned with the expansion of the Patriots in the north and want to ensure the protection of all people of the Coastal Coalition. To that end we seek to make a show of force, to demonstrate to the Patriots that we are not some easy target they can pick on without consequences. We do not seek war with their people, but our diplomatic efforts have failed to get through to their leaders and we cannot hesitate in taking action to protect ourselves."

"The days ahead promise to be filled with new wonders and great strides towards the future. May we all move forward together to a better tomorrow."

"Thank you."

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
The Coastal Coalition awaits word of the trade meeting's date and time. We remain willing to participate in this potential discussion whenever it may be.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

To France and Sweden (DESP 2)

The Illuminati have been watching the happenings throughout Europe, and we believe we need to show solidarity to stifle Romes attempts at expansion. We would like to host a meeting between our contries to debate on some actions we can take to stabilize the region.

EU2 (PM)

The meeting is taking place in an ancient castle that has been renovated for forign delegates to stay. Not only is it a safe locaiton, but it helps keep the forigeners from delving too deply into the Illuminati's secrets. In typical Illuminati fasion, the meeting itself is taking place in a smaller room with a focused light on the table between the delagtes. Scott McArthor starts the meeting.

"I would like to thank you for meeting with us. We have been watching Europe for a long time, specifically Rome with its agressive tendancies. Their continued expansion is a threat to all of Europe, and I belive we must act to stabilize the region. Your attendance makes me believe you are thinking along the same lines.

I believe our best option currently is to create an alliance among the smaller Eruopean states to dissuade Rome from gaining any more ground."

[lukitux]

The Prime Minister Garcia apologies for delays in the NSAFTA accord summit, but communication with other countries was impaired by a flock of surprisingly aggressive pigeons which tore out most of the wiring from our communications tower. The International Communications subcommittee has partnered with the military to set up 24/7 defenses around the tower. We ask you not to dwell on this minor faliure, and instead look to our vast and prosperous rail network. Because of us, you can now have access to goods produced in the capital, you can visit friends and relatives in other cities, and you can even live in one city but take the train to work in another. But we did not do this alone, the volunteer railroad organization has helped tremendously and the nation thanks you. However, this speech isn't just to pat ourselves on the back, it is also to announce the results of the election. More members of parliment are in my party, the Economic Development Party, so I will remain the prime minister. I am also proud to announce that the NSAFTA accord will finally be held

while it was impeded last year, due to communication issues, the NSAFTA accord summit will happen. We will be hosting the summit in our capital.

The summit is held in the capitol city, in a large meeting room near the parliament building. The prime minister stands and a addresses all the delegates from other countries: We are happy you have come to help negotiate an economic accord which will hopefully benefit all nations on these two continents. The NSAFTA accord is simple, all it does is allow free trade between all countries in north and south america and prevents any country from placing restrictions and embargoes on trade with other countries. The major concerns expressed to me during messages about this were security and war. I propose that an organization should be created to inspect trade and prevent espionage, funded and controlled by all countries in NSAFTA. In the event of a war, no one is required to allow trade with a country at war with another country in NSAFTA. if you have any objections, suggestions, or other concerns, please voice them now.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

The Coastal Coalition's representative to the summit was a trained diplomat with years of experience in dealing with disputes between the Coalition's varied peoples. She had arrived by boat in Argentina a few days ago and made her way to the summit at the appointed time.

Following the Lodge's opening statement she stood to address the nations. "The people of the Coastal Coalition wish for nothing more than peace with our neighbors in the north and south. While we understand the objections raised against truly open trade, we hope that this inspection organization will prove to be an unnecessary precaution and that we can all come together in a spirit of cooperation, putting the petty feuds of the past behind us.

We find the suggestion of this inspection organization to be acceptable. So long as funding and representation for the inspection organiation are distributed equal among all signing nations we are prepared to sign these accords and open our borders to the other nations of the Americas. Thank you."

[smasher0404]

The territory of the Patriots was filled with the deafening cheers of its people, as fireworks lit the night sky welcoming in the New Year.

Mr. President stepped out of not the Empire State House, but the old White House, former home of Presidents before him. Cheers of the native Patriots erupted even louder than when the fireworks erupted. Mr. President cleared his throat and began addressing his people.

"As I'm sure many of you are aware, we have reclaimed the great city of Washington DC! However, we will not be moving our capital for security reasons until we have secured our goals, and any potential threats to the city have subsided. However, this is a great step to our goal of reestablishing the American empire!"

After the cheers subsided, Mr. President's speech took a darker tone: "However, we are not without threats to our goal of reestablishing order. The so-called Coastal Coalition declares us blood-thirsty monsters. They threaten to make a "show of force" against our people. To this, I only have one response. Bring It On. Any attack you make against us will be returned a hundred-fold. We have no wish to go to war with you ourselves, but we will have no choice if you choose to go through with this. And you know how strong the Patriot's military is. I do not believe that you are so foolish as to risk the well-being of what people you do have on what would be a fool's errand, so please, don't prove me wrong."


Mr. Treasurer, Head of the Treasury Department, raises his hand. "If a committee is to be established to inspect all trade in and out of a nation, who is going to run it? We can't ask people from our own nations to go abroad just to inspect trade goods, and those of the nation goods are entering have a vested interest in allowing to go through without inspection. We cannot accept this deal as it is, because there is simply not enough information on any of it"

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale: 3
The Compact's recommendation for implementing any overseeing agency is for all participants to lend [1 espionage] each year for the purpose of preventing any sabotage or other unlawful acts. By demanding all members participate, it eliminates the freerider problem, and by putting a cap, it prevents any one nation from having undue influence over the body as a whole. There are seven major powers in the Americas (Patriots, Coastal Coalition, Federation of Surviving States, Second Nations, Solarius Cult, Lodge, and the Compact). So long as three other nations agree to participate, the Compact will also sign. Any fewer and such trade will not be worth the investment.

At first the Compact did not think the trade would even happen, but it has been given new life. At this point the Compact is not in any position to include any outside nations directly, but should the deal happen, we can discuss how other nations, including yours, can benefit from a more global trade. Is this something the Illuminati is still interested in?

We have heard the Coastal Coalition's official statement regarding the Patriots. You should understand that the Patriots will attack you. The only questions are when and how. That you are building up your military is wise, but it will only cause them to build up their own armaments and look to the Roman allies. At this point the Compact has little interest in throwing ourselves needlessly at the Patriots, but neither do we want the Patriots to conquer you and steal your vast research and economic holdings. It is for this reason we wanted to give you this fair warning. The Compact's open to listening to any ideas your nation has, but for now we intend to remain neutral.

It appears that animosity between you and the Coastal Coalition is growing. We still remember your offer, but for now are choosing to still remain neutral. Although we do have some concerns of using European mercenaries, we also understand the usefulness of them. We do ask though that no territory is given to any outside power, which we assume is agreeable to the Patriots given your agenda.

The Compact is interested in what the Federation's opinion is of the problems to the east. For now, the Compact is leaning towards staying neutral as their borders have yet to touch, but we are keeping a close eye on the situation.

[smasher0404]

An organization as proposed by the Phoenix Compact is amenable to us, we agree to those conditions


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Mr. Leon,
You have our solemn vow, that we will never allow American territory to fall into foreign hands. The agreement between us and the Imperium Romanum is that of technology and soldiers, not of territory. You should know that our offer is on the table if you ever change your mind

Sincerely,
Mr. President
Leader of the Patriots

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
We thank you for the warning. We have been preparing for the past two years, ever since our diplomatic efforts failed, and will continue to do so going forwards. Hopefully the Patriots will see reason and realize that diplomacy and fair dealings would be the more intelligent route, but we do have plans in place to protect our people.

I will not try to drag your people into our conflict. It would be unfair to involve you in a conflict you have no part in. I will offer only a warning, one which I hope you will not require. The Patriots seek to control the entire territory of the former United States of America, and will likely wish to expand beyond even that. The Phoenix Compact has territory within that region. If you cannot secure a non-aggression pact with the Patriots (I sincerely wish you the best of luck) we would be happy to offer a treaty of mutual protection. Together we could stand strong against their aggressive behavior.

The choice is yours. If you believe the Compact can stand against the Patriots alone, or negotiate with them, then I shall wish you good luck in that and we will make our stand without involving your people. But we would certainly like your help and, based on the limited information I have of the situation, you could use an ally to halt their expansion before it reaches your territory. Good luck.

[lukitux]

The Lodge

The Lodge approves of the organization proposed by The Phoenix Compact and, unless anyone has other concerns or requirements, will proceed to the signing once we have received word from all countries in North and South America.

[Mabn]

Federation of Surviving States


we approve the compact's motion for an oversight organization, but any such organization will only be as the rules it enforces. Can we have a clear write up of what constitutes bad behavior and what the consequences of infraction are?



We believe the Patriots are a problem that will require military intervention sooner or later. Their goals of conquest are not secret. The question our government now wrestles with is when. In years past their aggression would have long ago met with an international response. No such response is now feasible, and in acting as a single nation we fear we would appear indistinguishable from them in the eyes of the world. However if we waited until a major American power was attacked they will have taken half of North America and we will not be able to defeat them.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia Morale 4

Russia to Rime Conglomerate

We would like to invite you to our defensive alliance against the Roman-Iberian threat.

Russia to Hospitallers, Neo-Achaeminid Empire

Our infrastructure projects have done well, despite the unfortunate lack of Hospitaller involvement. We are interested in possibly working on larger-scale, flagship projects now that the cooperation has been proven to work. Perhaps a canal system connecting the Caspian Sea, the Black Sea and the Mediterranean - the main issue damping our mutual trade is currently the control of the Romans over the Bosphorus.

...or, of course, as would be my own preference as something necessary and probably less costly if we did cooperate, we could remove the control of the Romans over the Bosphorus. Europe is readying itself to erupt.

Russia to the Illuminati

I cannot help but to note that you have committed to high-level talks with both France and the Rime Conglomerate. What with the tense situation in continental Europe as it is, we are interested as to what you are planning.

Russia to Phoenix Compact, Federation of Surviving States, The Coastal Coalition, The Second Nations

The alliance between the Romans, the Iberians and the Patriots should be a concern to all of us, despite the distances involved. Perhaps we should cooperate, however loosely, to ensure they do not get out of hand.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

The only consequences we can foresee for any member who breaks the trust of this agreement is removal from the trade pact. It may be tempting to put into place harsher penalties, but there will be no means to enforce them save through forcing them, which we would prefer not to have in this agreement.

As to what would be a breach, the two means we see a nation breaking the trust of this agreement is to either not make their fair contribution, or to use the trade as a means to take advantage of the other nations.

If you can reach out to the Coastal Coalition and come to an understanding regarding war with the Patriots, then we will do our part. As it is the Coastal Coalition who right now stands to lose the most, our recommendation is that they take the lead in any offensive. Just as you are concerned about the Patriots becoming too strong, so too would we need to ensure that should the Patriots fall, that their remaining assets are evenly distributed to us.

As to Novaya Russia's overtures, at this time we would prefer their involvement in the west minimal. We can secure our own continent first and worry about Europe later if need be.

The Compact remembers the offer the Patriots graciously offered. However, public opinion is not currently in favor of expansionism. We will continue to observe, and make sure that if we join you, we can do so fully and completely without any pause or backing out.

[ArcaneStomper]

France to Illuminati, Rime Conglomerate (PM)
The French delegate laughs, "Hah, well you're a bit late for that. There are no more smaller states. Between them Rome, Madrid, and Moscow haven eaten them all up. A few are left in the East, but they are pressed between Rome and Moscow. We have no way of reaching them."

"There is still the Benelux region, but they have little to offer. We intend to extend our protection over them in the coming months, but that will only extend the coming front lines."

The Second Nations to Russia
The power plays in Europe are of no concern to us. And the Patriots look south not north.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
The Coastal Coalition seconds the Phoenix Compact's suggested restrictions.
As ones of the likely next targets for this alliance we are extremely concerned about the behavior of the Patriots and their allies. We would be more than happy to cooperate to keep the situation as peaceful as possible, whether that be through a mutual condemnation of their actions, or an alliance of defense of some kind.

We hold hope that the Patriots at least, may still be willing to discuss reasonable limits, but it will take a very large stick to bring them to the table, one far larger than the Coastal Coalition wields. I'm afraid we don't know much about our aggressive neighbors across the Atlantic but perhaps they could also be persuaded to limit their expansion if a sufficiently large number of nations and their armed forces were to inform them that their behavior thus far has been unacceptable to the global community?

Regardless, we are pleased to know that other nations are taking note of this aggressive behavior from these three nations. Human history has seen too many wars already, we must do what we can to avoid another one.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

To France, Rime Conglomerate, Switzerland (PM)

It wont be between France and Rome, but if we try to re-create the Unitied Kingdom in the isles we would put a lot of manpower on our side of the equation. We would need your help with this, since we do not have the same global respect as France. Meanwhile, we will move to imobilize Rome by taking over their intelligence network. Once complete we will know of any of Rome's military movements and can stop their harassment of your territory. If you see Madrid as a greater threat we can target then, but we do not have enough power to target both nations.

OOC: Well, this is embarrissing. I meant to have Switzerland in these talks as well.


Internal (PM)

Can I get an estimate for the small lords of the british isles?


To Novaya Russia (DESP 2)

We are looking to create an alliance between the less militaristic nations of Europe. If done swift enough it should stabilize the region.


To the Pheonix Compact (DESP 2)

We are interested, although we would probably wish to bring our allies in Europe as well.


To Rime Conglomerate (DESP 2)

With Rome and Iberia's campaign across europe, we are gathering other non military nations to form an alliance to stabilize the region. We are holding talks in Scottland if you are interested.

OOC: I typed Sweden in the first message instead of Rime Conglomerate

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to Illuminati

Our alliance with France is created with a similar purpose in mind, to balance the scales.

But that sort of maneuvering won't really stabilize anything. The balance of power is labile, and as it is Rome, Madrid and Washington together hold more of the cards than Paris and Moscow. If it looks like we are beginning to catch up, through our diplomatic efforts as well as our defensive build-up, they are as likely as not to choose a pre-emptive strike before our superior economic foundations render their temporary advantage moot. This is what happened during the lead-up to the First World War.

Our hopes for avoiding bloodshed rely on two possibilities - either we manage to eclipse their strength quickly enough that they can't react, or we split their alliance - removing the keystone of the Romans would dissolve the problem neatly, as they are the proactive party, and the ones in contact with the Patriots.

[ArcaneStomper]

Illuminati Talks (Illuminati, France, Rime Conglomerate, Switzerland) (PM)
France: We approve this plan, but as events have proved we do not have the capability to take over the Roman intelligence assets.

Switzerland: We will make clear that while we are willing to mediate between the different European powers we are unwilling to ally with one side or the other.

To Illuminati
The small lords of the british isles have no more than 1 point of every stat. And some are zero.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 5



From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Leader of Ethiopia,
It is to our knowledge, that your nation is rather well informed on the matters of other countries. Unfortunately, the Patriots do not have the same capabilities in that regard. What we do have is a strong military, one of the strongest in the world if our knowledge remains correct. What we would like to offer is a trade, we offer to protect Ethiopia if you ever come attack, and you keep us informed of any major political movements against us. Hopefully, we can come to a mutually beneficial agreement over this.
Yours Truly,
Mr. President,
Leader of the Presidents


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Mr. Kelly,

It seems with the current political situation, that the Coastal Coalition will soon attack us. Such an attack is foolish, and if they choose to do so we will retaliate and may even counter-invade. If we do, I have a proposition for you, lend us military support for the counter-invasion and we would send you all the research data we can gather from their research facilities. Unfortunately, we cannot offer the facilities themselves, but the data may be useful to your own technological research to our understanding.

From,
Mr. President
Leader of the Patriots

OOC: Basically, I'm offering to split any research gains a military invasion of the Coastal Coalition would gain me with the Order if they lend us troops when the time comes.


Dear Captain Schmitt,

With the current tide, it seems that the Coastal Coalition may attack the Patriots soon enough. Such a move would be foolish of them, as our military is strong enough to push them back. If you join in, you will be pushed back too, but at a great cost of life to both sides. We would like to inquire what it would take to ensure your military neutrality if the Coastal Coalition attacks.

Thanks,
Mr. President
Leader of the Patriots

[ArcaneStomper]

Ethiopia to the Patriots
An interesting agreement Mr. President. However it seems to favor you more than us. As no doubt many fear your aggressive polices, while we have few enemies.

The Order of the Southern Cross to the Patriots
We cannot offer any form of military support while the situation in our own corner of the globe is so tense.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 5


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Leader of Ethiopia,
Certainly there is some service we could offer in exchange for your help? Especially with the situation in Africa being as tense as it is, I'm not quite certain you have as few enemies as you seem to think. With recent expansions by other nations on your continent, some military defense may be useful, even if we are not as well liked as other factions.

Sincerely,
Mr. President.

[ArcaneStomper]

Ethiopia to the Patriots
It is still a request for constant vigilance by us in return for an unknown amount of military assistance in an unknown timeframe. Perhaps if you also made your markets available to us as preferential trade partners. [1 Econ per turn]

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 5

Dear Leader of Ethiopia,

While we would be glad to grant preferential trade agreements to your nation in exchange for information, our economy isn't strong enough to support such agreements under the current terms, perhaps we can work out a more reasonable trade agreement. [Counter Offer: 1 Econ every 4 turns] It is to our assumption, that you have been keeping vigilance anyways in all countries' affairs.

From,
Mr. President
Leader of the Patriots

[ArcaneStomper]

Ethiopia to the Patriots
Ah, but giving that information to someone else shows favoritism. By helping you we would become the target of your enemies as well. And surely with all your new territories you can afford to trade. [Counter Offer: 1 econ every two turns.]

(OOC: By 1 econ I mean the usage of 1 econ not that they want you to transfer a full stat point to them. Just in case that wasn't clear.)

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 5


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Leader of Ethiopia,

This deal seems amenable to us. [That makes a lot more sense thanks!] Hopefully we will have great relations in the future.

From,
Mr. President,
Leader of the Patriots

[lukitux]

The Lodge

The agreement has been finalized, with the counter-espionage organization and restrictions proposed by the compact. we may now proceed to signing. Any nations in our two continents who didn't attend the meeting may join by sending a representative to an open door meeting with the lodge.

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achaeminid Empire to Russia, Hospitallers Moral 5
The canal is acceptable to us. As far as Rome is concerned, we dispute their territorial claims in Turkey. Would you be willing to enter into a public mutual-defense pact against Roman expansion?

[Nemesis67]

Rime Conglomerate

Illuminati Talks (Illuminati, France, Rime Conglomerate, Switzerland) (PM)
We will assist in bringing the UK together once again, in exchange for unrestricted access to its waters, lands, and markets.

Novaya Russia (2)
Agreed. We need to avert a European war if we can. It would kill the global economy before it can get off the ground.

[OOC: Agreement to conduct an Economic attack against Rome.]

[Murska]

Novaya Russia announces a bilateral mutual defense treaty between themselves and the Rime Conglomerate, in the view of the recent upsurge of tensions in Europe.

Novaya Russia to Hospitallers, Neo-Achaeminid Empire (Mor 4)

Yes, we would be glad to add you to our mutual defense treaty with France and the Rime Conglomerate, or to sign separate bilateral agreements, as you wish.

[Andre]

HOSPITALLER ORDER

mor.5

Addis Abeba, Ethiopia
A dozen rough men clad in tattered cloaks and torn pants take a seedy pub by storm, making no mention of their eventual destination, although they seem to be coming from afar. Although the sparse crowd of the locale looks rowdy, nobody appears eager to thread upon them, no thanks to their menacing look and the presence of an hulking brute who towers among its comrades.

Albeit belatedly, the Haute Cour did contribute with funds and skilled hands to the institution of our trans-asiatic trade zone; everyone did benefit from it.

I agree that this stand-off between european powers is concerning, and we did set our eyes upon it with utmost concern. We agree to the wisdom of this mutual defense pact, yet we would like to be made privy of whichever detail you may have gathered, privately if necessary, about the espionage plays going on which have undoubtedly contributed to this falling off and appear to be rapidly plunging the continent towards open war before we commit our sights to such an endeavour.
Frà Tomàs

The Knights' ambassador in Paris expresses the Hospitaller's sympathy for their plight and vows to do whatever it is in his power to quell diplomatic tensions on the rise. He would like, however, that some light be shed on the incident which sparked all this.

The envoys at the tavern wait to be contacted by their counterparts serving whoever is in charge in Ethiopia. If the surveillance in this place is as good as its fame claims, they need not wait long they figure.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to Hospitallers, Neo-Achaeminid Empire

Insofar as we can tell, the events proceeded somewhat along the following timeline:

Madrid and Rome meet in secret, and agree to form an alliance to subjugate Western Europe. Their initial target appears to be France.

The Russian government sees the threat of militaristic powers' expansion in Europe, and decides to secure an alliance with France as a counterweight - weak as they may be compared to the Romans, the threat of a two-front war is still a potent deterrant. This results in the highly public Moscow-Paris Accords.

The invasion target of the Madrid-Rome Axis is quickly shifted from now surprisingly dangerous France into weaker, fragmented Germany. They quickly take over the region with overwhelming military superiority.

Concerned, Russia begins a westward expansion in Eastern Europe to secure Kaliningrad and the old naval bases there along with a buffer zone against Rome, needing to show capable of defending our allies in France.

The tensions rising due to this situation cause Rome to start prodding Paris for weakness with agents, bribery and espionage, while Paris retaliates in kind to garner military intelligence on the massing Axis forces.

Moscow convinces the Rime Conglomerate to join the alliance to better contain the massive military buildup in Italy.

[ArcaneStomper]

France to Hospitallers
France is unclear on how or what the incident in question is was. No major actions against Rome were planned, but somehow orders were given that lead to French agents crossing paths with Roman agents and things escalated from there.

Ethiopia to Hospitallers
True to their expectations a man soon approaches them. He is dressed in the non descript clothes of a common laborer, and asks them what business brings such fine foreigners to the city of Addis Abeba. Finest in Africa.

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achaeminid Empire Moral 5
The King of Lands judges it timely that those concerned with the situation in Europe meet in person to discuss the times and what should be done. He shall host such a conference open to you and those you judge trustworthy and concerned.

OOC: PM meeting next turn?

[Murska]

Russia - Neo-Achaeminid Empire, Hospitallers

Agreed.

Russia - Free Fleet

We would like to ask for temporary use of your naval facilities in Iceland for resupplying our fleet in the case of future conflict in the Eastern Atlantic, now that the Danish Straits are secure.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

January 1st 2104 dawned with a a light drizzle and overall foggy conditions over the capital of the Coastal Coalition. For the second year in a row the site of the annual presidential address had been moved, this time to the rebuilt and once again operational Kennedy Space Center building. The room chosen for the address was typically used to house parts for the rockets that were once again flying from the site and had been hastily cleaned out and furnished for the gathering once it was clear how many citizens were planning to hear the address in person. As people trickled in and chairs filled up it quickly became clear that this would be the largest in-person address in the Coalition's history.

President Alejándro
"Wow. It is fantastic to see you all here today. In light of the fact we have citizens standing in the back and have completely run this facility out of chairs I will be quick in my address this year."

"2103 was truly the year we stepped up. In nearly all facets of live the Coalition have made great advancements in the past year. We have strengthened our military to resist to encroachment of foreign powers. We have once more put rockets and even an astronaut into space, greatly exceeding even my wildest hopes. We have continued our trade agreement with our neighbors across the seas and worked with other nations towards a framework for open trade across our continent."

"None of this could have been done without you, the people, stepping up to the plate. You have risen to the occasion far more quickly and skillfully than anyone could have predicted, and for that I thank you. With our reach once more extended to the skies the possibilities for the future have expanded tremendously. We do not know what 2104 will bring but the fact we have so many possibilities open to us is thanks to your efforts in 2103. Let this be the dawn of a new future for us, a future where the stars are no limit."

"Thank you."

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
We are fine with signing the current version of this document if the other nations are ready.
Did not expect rockets to move that quickly, so now trying to think ahead. I would like to plan out a possible research project to start on related to rocketry and wanted to get your feel for it early, so I could revise it in time for this turns EOT report.

Satellite Communication - Effectively a project to offer quicker and, ideally, more secure communication. My goal would be for my nation to fund this (via Research and Economy probably) and then be able to offer access to other nations (in exchange for a World Opinion bonus to me). Ideally I would like it to offer a bonus to Morale vs. spying to anyone who uses it and give me a World Opinion bonus for offering it. Would that be even remotely possible? Is there some specific way I should do this? Thanks.

[ArcaneStomper]

Turn 4

January, 2104

Merchants of Death
The most talked about recent event in global politics is the surge in arms deals occuring in Europe. Russian merchants operating out of the Rime Conglomerate have been selling weapons at heavily discounted prices in the Roman territories of northern Germany.

Indiscriminate in their customers the influx of weaponry has enabled many partisan groups to rise up and fight back against the legions garrisoned in the Region. Imperial response was swift, but fighting was heavy all over the region.

Word from Rome is that the Emperor is denouncing these merchants as "government sponsored war profiteers" seeking to "undo all the stability that the Empire has brought to the region." In response Rome has banned all sale of arms through non approved sources in their territories.

Asian Cooperative
After intense negotiations sponsored by the Solarius cult the nations of Asia have come together in agreement and announced their formal enrollment in a new treaty of mutal defense and cooperation.

The peace is a wary one, but citizens throughout the most populous region in the world are hopeful that this will lead to a new era of peace and prosperity for all.

American Militarization
The Patriots have once again expanded. This time their troops have moved all the way down to Florida stopping just outside of Coastal Confederation territory. The Patriots now control most of the Atlantic seaboard in North America and are fielding an ever increasing Navy.

In response most of the other nations on the continent have stepped up their recruiting programs and increased the sizes of their militaries. It is unknown what the flash point will be, but a war seems certain.

Calls for Reconciliation
In a surprise move France has announced that its investigations have uncovered that neither Roman nor French agents were responsbile for last years incident between the two countries. It says that it has recovered forged orders made by an unknown third party sending both sides against each other.

The French Government has called for talks with their Roman peers stating that a war should be avoided when it would clearly leave Europe vulnerable to thist unknown third party.

This Program Brought to you by...
Possibly one of the more exciting things for the technological sector is the news that space is once more within reach. The Coastal Confederation has launched the first astronauts into space in decades. And in South America the Solarius cult has launched a series of satellites to once more establish a global network of communication.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia - France

If you have need of our unfortunately rather weak intelligence apparatus for your investigation, they are at your disposal.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

To France (MOR 3)

Would you like our aid in the investigation? We understand if you would like to keep it internal.


To the Coastal Confederation (MOR 3)

Congratulations on the space flight! I hope you can use that technology to help safeguard you from the Patriot expansion. Do you feel you have a plan adequate enough to stave off their eventual attack?

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 6

Mr. President stood at attention from the top of the Empire State House ready to address the people of the Patriots, and the world.

"We stand here today much closer to our goals than yesteryear. We've reclaimed many of the original colonies. We've signed multiple trade agreements, including NSAFTA and a trade agreement with the proud nation of Ethiopia, this will help us create new jobs and increase our domestic production. Our military stands proud as we are almost done reclaiming the original thirteen colonies. As we close on our initial expansions, we may now shift our focus from that of guns and steel to that of infrastructure and reconstruction. The years before our expansions were hard, many people suffered from the lack of roads, and a solid government to guide them. Now we begin the process of repairing what we have lost, we will pave new roads, and restore production across our territories. Of course, that does not mean we will not finish expanding, our military will guard our people as well as continue to reclaim our original territories.

However, the last year was not without its difficulties. We've had to deal with the slander from our neighbors, the so-called Coastal Coalition. to the south, accusing us of war-mongering and barbarianism, but our people stood proud of our own actions and for restoring order to the people. Our allies in the East, the Imperium Romanum, have found themselves the victim of Russia's own war-mongering tactics, smuggling weapons into Germany to try and block their expansion, and that of sadly political misunderstanding, and we offer our condolences to both France and Rome for their current difficulties.

Hopefully, we will ring in this new year with more prosperity for the Patriots."


From the President of the Patriots
Dear the Emperor of Rome and the Prime Minister of France,

We offer our sincerest condolences for your situation, and wish to offer any support you may need from us, whether it is information from our own intelligence networks, or economic/military support. Of course, if you wish to keep this domestic, we will not interfere.

From,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


Dear President Xi Li and The Japanese Prime Minister,

We, the Patriots, would like to extend our congratulations, and would like to offer an economic deal for the both of you. As you may know, the Patriots have recently been expanding our territories and thus growing our military. As it stands now, we are taking in more recruits than we can produce weapons. We do however have our own research facilities, and relatively sophisticated weapons technology. We would like to offer a cooperative weapons manufacturing deal. While Asia may be secure from internal strife, outside forces may wish to intervene. Of course we should discuss more at length of the specific nature of such a deal, but I would like to hear your initial thoughts on such a deal.

Sincerely,
Mr. President,
Leader of the Presidents

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition
Messages Sent (Morale 3)
We thank you for the kind words.

On the subject of the Patriots, we are working hard to develop a means of holding off their attack. We have been expanding our military and are looking into potentially gaining the aid of other nations worried about the Patriot's allies in a mutual defense pact. While I would love to say we are perfectly prepared I cannot. The Patriots still have a larger military than us and we have not managed to finalize any alliance plans at this time (if we had it would have been announced to the world for obvious reasons).

Do you have any suggestions?

[ArcaneStomper]

Coastal Coalition (GM)
I've been playing this as not being a major reduction in scientific knowledge just a catastrophic collapse of industry and population. If you can gather enough of those two, then the designs for how to build modern technology are still available.

Anyway yes, you can do what you are thinking with Satellite Communication. You just need to say that's what you are doing and put your stats to it. It's hard to tell who is using a specific method of communication though. So I would probably just make it an increase in your espionage.

France to Novaya Russia
Your help is appreciated. Though we would also prefer that you stop provoking Rome. We are trying to avoid a war, and they are not the type to simply sit idly while a foreign power funds a partisan rebellion.

France to the Illuminati
The aid of your agents would be welcome.

Imperium Romanum to the Patriots
We do not trust the French and their allies. We suspect they might be setting up some elaborate scheme. We would welcome your assistance in preparing for any treachery.

Imperium Romanum to Egypt, Iberia, African Union
The nations of the north are clearly preparing some scheme. We the nations of the Meditteranean must unite to prepare for their schemes.

China to the Patriots
We are tentatively interested. What are you proposing.

Japan to the Patriots
We would welcome an economic treaty. Open trade will only benefit both our nations.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to France

Our actions were planned with the assumption that Rome was testing your defenses and that war was most likely inevitable if we did not manage to shift the balance of power in our favour. Now that we have, and can match the Roman military, things should be more secure. Especially given what your investigation has found.

I would suggest not involving the Illuminati. They are one of the nations who have both the means and possibly the motive to be the culprits - a nation on the sidelines, close enough to swoop in if a war devastates their neighbours.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 6


Dear President Xi Li,
We are offering a mutually beneficial weapons development deal. We offer the research and weapons design, and your factories will produce said weapons. We will split the production evenly between the both of us, allowing both of us to benefit from this cooperation. We are willing to offer a pledge of defense as additional incentive if you so choose.

Sincerely,
Mr. President


Dear Emperor of Rome,

We would be glad to monitor communications as best we can for you to try and determine who is behind this incident. But from what we've already gleaned, I find it unlikely for France to be the culprit, as they are currently asking Russia to stop their arms smuggling in order for the both of you to find the root cause. Personally, I find the Iberians or the Illuminati suspect because they both have much to gain from a war between you and France,

Sincerely,
Mr. President

[Mabn]

FSS


The Patriot's conquest is becoming intolerable. As the major powers of North America we need to draw a line or watch them consume us.

[Andre]

KNIGHTS HOSPITALLER

In response to the storm brewing up in Europe, plenty of influential figures from the Hospital urge caution and give rousing speeches asking all involved to give peace a chance. To support their statement they cite data and infographics predicting a wider conflict would plunge Europe into a status of unrest and chaos comparable to pre-2100 levels.

We will attend such a conference. There is something to discuss indeed.

Have a seat and share a drink with us, fine local. [Yet nobody drinks, it's srs biz] We were led here by most marvelous tales decanting the most valuable of goods Addis Abeba has to offer. [dramatic pause] Knowledge. It is said all is known, and can be known, in Addis Abeba, and that nothing escapes this watchful eye. My friends should like to partake in some of this wisdom.

[Murska]

Threefold Conference (Novaya Russia, Neo-Achaeminid Empire, Hospitaller Order) [PM]

Out of courtesy and deference to the Russian winter, the initial stages of the meeting are set in Tel Aviv, on the Mediterranean coast where all parties have easy access of travel.

The Russian delegation would fit in any pre-Winter high-level diplomatic conference, with black tinted-window cars and men in suits. The New State does not glorify individuals, but rather the institutions and traditions behind a resilient and adaptable organization. Still, Zyuganov himself leads the diplomats and his is a face well-known in those parts of the world that still receive TV broadcasts.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

To the Coastal Collaition (MOR 3)

I should think you can get some of the other American Countries in a defensive alliance. My services are available, but I feel any offensive actions taken would serve only to provoke them, and my network is significantly weaker than military strength on the defensive.

Another option is to rebuild a nuclear weapon. Combind with your space capability it would make thier military power near obsolete, although it would bring the ire of many if not all the nations around the world.

If you find yourselves in a worse case scenario and being forced by military advance, you can find a home away from home in the UK.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)

The Coastal Coalition will stand with any nations who wish to halt the Patriot advance. Unchecked aggression can do nothing but hurt the future of humanity as a whole. The Patriots will not listen to our single voice but they may be forced to pay attention if we speak together in this matter.
Firstly, we thank you for the suggestions and the welcoming offer. It is, of course, my sincere hope that things will not become so dire that we have to take you up on it, but it is appreciated.

We have been working towards a possible North American alliance, and are pleased to see that other nations are now coming to recognize the threat posed by the Patriots and their allies. In regards to a nuclear weapon, I cannot, at this time, condone such research. We are, however, working on more advanced conventional weaponry using our new rocketry program. While it saddens me greatly to have to taint our research in this area with military applications our survival may depend on it and we are certainly pursuing such matters diligently.

Thank you greatly for your words and please do let us know if we can be of aid to your people at any time in the future. The more friendly nations there are in this new world the better it shall be for all of humanity.

[lukitux]

The Lodge



Citizens, I am proud to announce that the NSAFTA accords have finally been signed. However, not all countries on these two continents are members, because they couldn't or wouldn't attend the conference. The NSAFTA accords are still open to be joined by any other North or South American Countries, simply request to join and agree to the terms and you will be a part of the agreement. I also wish to announce that our neighbors on this continent have discovered a way to send vehicles off the planet and into space. The Lodge will also be attempting such an operation, and by the end of the next few years, we might have a person in space depending on how things go. However, we need enough skilled workers, technicians, and scientists to make this dream a reality. The Lodge will be implementing a new public education program in the hopes of preparing the next generation to succeed in this new, reindustrializing world.

We are hoping to hire a few of your researchers to teach some of our scientists about how your space things work, and we would also like to buy a few books about the different sciences that you have.

[Thelonius]

Solarius Cult

The Lodge [1]

Our scientific advances are very important to us, but we are willing to make the trade at this time as a gesture of goodwill. How many of our scientists and labs do you wish to hire?

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale 3
The Compact has no interest in "halting" the Patriots' advance. There is nothing to be gained by a defensive position other than to make enemies of the Patriots and to allow them time to be fully prepared when they do declare war. We understand that the Patriots' dream is rule all of the old United States, but we are also confident that we would be the last nation they would target. We are confident in this because we are the furthest from them geographically, and because we are confident that our military can stand up to theirs. By publicly denouncing them, and standing against them all the Compact does is potentially move ourselves higher on their list, and turn a potential future problem into a very real current problem.

If on the other hand the Coastal Coalition were willing to be a part of an offensive, to actually reduce the military threat the Patriots pose, to remove their means to rebuild, to split their assets in order to make up for the loss of life we will all face, then the Compact is willing to hear the other North American powers out. The Compact is full of practical people, and is interested in solutions over stalling.

[ArcaneStomper]

France to Novaya Russia
Hmmm, we will take your advice into consideration. Though we have not seen any evidence to implicate the Illuminati yet.

China to the Patriots
We can accept such a deal, though a pledge of defense is unnecessary. We can protect our own borders.

Imperium Romanum to the Patriots
We doubt the Iberians would be behind it. They are just as involved in this as we are, and we have worked closely with them over the last few years. Still your warnings about the Illuminati have merit. If that is the case though we face a most insidiuos threat. Would you be willing to consider jointly bolstering your counter intelligence agencies.

Ethiopia to the Knights Hospitaller
There is much wisdom to be found for those who know where to look. But to ask someone else to look for you. Well that carries a certain risk. What areas are your friends so interested in to search for it in Addis Adeba?

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale 3
We would like to enter secure talks with only our two nations. Are you interested?

[Thelonius]

Solarius Cult

Republic of the South [1]

My greetings to our southern neighbors. As we observe the events around the world - the tensions and saber rattling, our wish for unity and order for Southern America grows - with apprehension, that such ambition may cost blood and suffering for our fellow people.

The current state of affairs, with multitude of warring warlords is hardly good for us, but I hope that a way to solve it would not involve missiles and tanks, as nations north of us prefer.

I would like to offer, that instead we work together to bring harmony and prosperity to the South America through the force of diplomacy and economy.

[Mabn]

FSS


yes we are

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale 3
The Compact signed the agreement last year, and intend to continue as a member. A question we would pose to the other nations if whether or not we are willing to include nations from the eastern hemisphere? No doubt other nations will be interest in secure trade, and we would know the thoughts of the other nations on this matter.

To start, the Compact would be willing to hear out requests by other nations.

Secure Meeting
A couple years ago, the Patriots approached the Compact with an offer to split North America in half. However, in their offer the zealots could not help but also suggest the Compact also bow to their will as an alternative for a 50-50 deal. We turned them down, but left it on the table for a future date. We saw no reason to unnecessarily offend them. Since then we have tried to push the Coastal Coalition into taking a stand against the Patriots, but to no avail. Never mind that the Patriots have all but declared war on all of us, especially them. The Coastal Coalition's sense of nobility is a liability, their strategy to "deter" the Patriots will only lead to an even more devastating war down the road.

Here is our alternative. The two of our nations attack the Patriots. This year. Depending on our success we can consider outside parties to help if need be, Russia and the Illuminati the two most likely to assist us. Once the Patriots have been dealt with, we can deal with other the other warlords on the continent... and with the Coastal Coalition. As things are now, they are a liability to our regional safety with or without the Patriots. Either we find a way to make them more useful to both of us such as being fully included in their discoveries, or we remove them as well.

Naturally, we would split any economic, research, or other assets equally between the two of us.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 6


Dear Emperor of Rome,
While we are willing to keep an ear out for any news on your situation, unfortunately we are currently facing a military crisis, in that our networks have picked up news of a military coalition from our West and South being formed against us. One with deliberately aggressive intentions towards us. The Patriots unfortunately cannot afford to spare the resources necessary to bolster our espionage networks. If perhaps you provide us with some more military support, or talk to your allies the Iberian about providing us with military support, we could afford to bolster your own intelligence network. But in the mean time, the Patriots must face its own threats.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
Leader of the Patriots


Dear Mr. Alejandro,
Our intelligence networks have intercepted the plans of your North American coalition. We would actually recommend your neutrality in this situation. I know our states have never had good relations, but we are the enemy you know. The rest of the coalition, by recommending that you take immediate aggressive actions towards us. However both we and they know such an action could and would result in your destruction.

We are prepared to offer you a neutrality pact that would recognize your sovereignty and establish a demilitarized zone entirely within Patriot territory where the military concentration beyond a certain amount (OOC: 1 military point probably?). In exchange, we both agree not to engage in military actions against each other for a period of 20 years, with the option to renew said agreement. Now, as I am writing this, I realize enforcement of this treaty may be a problem, therefore by announcing this treaty to the public, breaking the treaty will destroy any trust foreign powers have in us and result in incredible detriments to either of our developments.

The Military coalition that has been formed currently does not recognize your individual power as a state and does not care for your own state's survival. They've already written your Coastal Coalition as a lost cause, or else they would not have established a private meeting between the two of them and exclude your state from the conversation. We do not necessarily fear your military contribution, but if you join the war, it will be prolonged for a significant portion of time, and result in a prolonged period of warfare. The loss of life on every side would be significant. Please for the sake of every nation involved, please accept this deal.

Sincerely,
Mr. President,
President of the Patriots.

[Mabn]

FSS


We would be willing to assault the Patriots with you, but continent-wide dominion doesn't interest us.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

PM
That is acceptable. Here is what we propose then. We are open to any revisions you have.
-Encourage the Coastal Coalition to join us. Inform them that we met because both our nations disagreed with their plan to merely delay the inevitable conflict, and that they are free to join us and should given they have the most to gain.
-Fight the Patriots until their unconditional surrender. A weakened Patriots will only grow back holding onto a grudge. We dismantle their government and split whatever is left to those of us who take part.

Strategy
-Use our World Opinion to deter any third parties from joining the Patriots, and to control the narrative of the media that our actions are justified.
-Start a two front war, we will move up from the south while you engage their northern holdings. This will force them to concede territory somewhere, or to easily lose on both fronts and be caught in the middle.

Our only two remaining questions are whether we want to ask anyone else to take part, and when do we declare war?

[Mabn]

FSS

Timing is flexible. We have gone to extensive efforts to ensure that if the Patriots enter Coastal Coalition soil we can be in New York State before they reach the capitol. If we could get no support we planned to standby and wait for the Patriots inevitable greed to leave them far away from their capitol and without a leg to stand upon in world opinion. We do not know your exact military disposition or strength, but if you have emphasized sudden strike capabilities less than our forces it complicates our ability to act reactively as a joint operation. In all honestly, simply discussing this together even in secret will very possibly put the Patriots in a defensive mindset and render our previous plan of war untenable.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

PM
OOC: Speaking purely OOC, you lost me on sudden strike capabilities, and why things would be untenable. Are you asking if I've put research specifically into sudden strike capabilities, and that if they know we will attack you think we won't be successful?

[Mabn]

FSS


OOC: so I have put several turns worth of points into making an inland navy and a canal system capable of moving them and any troops I have through major US rivers and into the great lakes. I have no idea whether that will impact things mechanically, but having my military within marching distance of the Patriots old capital seemed worthwhile from a roleplaying perspective and it allows me some nice control over trade lanes. Nevertheless, my plan if I had to take the Patriots myself was to surprise attack them when they were taking other territory and couldn't get back to the northeastern US in time to respond. Attacking them with you any surprise arcanestomper decided to give me I probably wont get and even if the Patriots don't bunker down one of us will probably run into their military. So I was seeing if you had any reason to attack them at some particular time.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

PM
OOC: Ah, gotcha.
IC: We don't have any specific means to attack quickly, no. We can make a show of it, going after their southern territory to try to draw out some of their forces. As for the timing, the sooner we attack the less chance the Patriots will have to prepare. Currently global opinion is on our side, and their Roman allies seem to be distracted by whatever is unfolding in Europe. Also, the sooner we deal with the Patriots, the sooner we can turn towards strengthening all aspects of our nation, not just our military. The more we delay, the harder they will be to uproot, building their military and trying to secure more alliances.

We intend to contribute [10 military] to this attack and [3 World Opinion] to make our case to the world. If it is good with you, we'd like to inform the Coastal Coalition of our intent and try to get their own military involved.

EDIT: Given the Coastal Coalition's strong position of non-aggression, we rescind our plans to inform them. Our suggestion is to move forward without them.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
The Coalition will not make aggressive war upon another nation of humanity. We still believe the situation may yet be salvaged through diplomacy or a show of force and we will not undertake to attack The Patriots.

We are sorry if that loses us the support of the Phoenix Compact but we will not destroy our morals in order to preserve them. If the Compact feels secure in their current position then we shall simply hope that they are correct and make do with what we can.

If the Federation or Second Nations would like to join us in our defensive stance against The Patriots we would welcome your support. Thank you.
The Coastal Coalition will agree to accept nations into the accords from outside of the continental US so long as they abide by the same rules and regulations as the nations that have already signed.
Firstly, let me thank you for re-opening diplomatic ties.

The Coastal Coalition has no intention of opening hostilities with any nation or peoples. While we will defend ourselves if attacked, and are willing to join in the defense of other nations if requested, we do not and will not plan to perform offensive operations against any other nation. We do not wish for war and so we will gladly speak with you regarding peace.

The neutrality pact you have proposed is quite close to what we would like, but we would require a few minor changes for it to be acceptable to us, hopefully ones you will not have any issue with. We propose the following agreement.

The Patriots shall recognize that the Coastal Coalition holds sovereignty over their currently claimed territory. The Coastal Coalition shall recognize that the Patriots hold sovereignty over their currently claimed territories, as well as any other territories they shall claim within the duration of the agreement. Neither the Patriots nor the Coastal Coalition shall conduct any military or espionage related acts* within the territory of the other. The Coalition shall be free to move its military to the support of any of its allies should the Patriots declare war on them, but only to defend that allies territory and never to cross into the territory of the Patriots (OOC: can dedicate military to other nations to protect against Patriot attacks, but cannot make any attacks against your forces). The Patriots shall have the same freedom should the Coalition declare war upon any of their allies**. The agreement shall last 20 years, be publicly declared, and be optionally renewable at the time it expires.

* We would allow amending this section to exclude pure information gathering missions if you so wish. We merely wish to exclude the possibility of sabotage as a means of proxy warfare.
** The Coalition will never declare war as an attacker (and especially not against any of your allies we are aware of, who are all quite powerful), but we feel it is only fair to extend the same rules of the agreement to you as we are requesting ourselves.

Is that acceptable to you? If not we would hear your counter-proposal. We are more than happy to declare peace between our peoples but we cannot justify doing so if that means abandoning the other nations of the American continent to you should the worse come to pass. Thank you for your time.

[lukitux]

The Lodge

We wish to hire around 30 scientists as well as access to the blueprints for one of the manned spacecraft (up to 5 science) and can pay an portion of our national budget proportional to the cost of the scientists (1 economy per science. if this isn't enough I will add one extra economy to make it more advantageous to you)

We are willing to let other nations in under the conditions that they follow the same rules as original NSAFTA members. They will also be required to contribute to the NSAFTA counter-espionage force. However, we think that all foreign countries wishing to enter must be approved by 2/3 of the original members

[ArcaneStomper]

Imperium Romanum
Unfortunately we cannot afford to offer any military assistance when the prospect of war on our own soil is so imminent.

Mediterranean Summit [PM]
Attendees:
Imperium Romanum
Egypt
Iberia
African Union

The Imperium's envoy begins with an impassioned speech on the glories of the Mediterranean and how it has always been the center of civilization.

Iberia's envoy agrees, but the African Union is far more skeptical, and Egypt scoffs and claims the Nile is far more worthy of the term.

With the initial posturing out of the way the four powers get down to business. Iberia and Rome are solidly in the same camp having solidified their alliance over the past few years. Egypt however is isolationist and the African Union takes offense to the Roman settlements in North Africa.

After some dancing around the subject Rome offers to give control of their African territory to the African Union. A bold and unexpected offer, which shows their near desperation to gain allies.

This does satisfy the African Union, but Egypt remains unconvinced.

So Rome takes a different tack and starts offering praise of the Pharaoh's armies and how they are the best in the world. Their aid in an alliance would show this to the world. Egypt does not fall for it. The envoy isn't some blind zealot and knows Rome is on the ropes.

Eventually Rome is forced to guarantee certain trade concessions for a period of not less than ten years. Painful, but worth it in exchange for Egypt's support.

The summit then goes into technical details. Neither the African Union nor Egypt want to commit more than they have to, but eventually Iberia notes that a declaration of support costs them little. The addition of some concrete data regarding increases in readiness levels after the recent join Iberian-Roman war games also convince them to participate in a mock naval engagement.

(I'm not sure why I'm writing all this since none of you should be reading a secure PM like this, but hey why not.)

Public Declaration
After a month long high level diplomatic summit the Crown Sanctuary of Iberia, Imperium Rōmānum, African Union, and Egypt declare that they are entering into a treaty of mutual defense and protection against the perils of the modern world.

South Africa to France, Novaya Russia
The recent agreement between our norther neighbors worries us. We would like to join you alliance for mutual defense.

FSS, Phoenix Compact [PM]
Note that those canals only give access to lake Superior. The FSS does not control the rest of the Great Lakes region to guarantee continued access along them.

Ethiopia to the Patriots [PM]
If you haven't noticed the Phoenix Compact and Federation of Surviving States are conspiring. Likely against you.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 6


Dear Emperor of Rome,
While it disappoints us that you are unable to currently offer us military support, we understand your current predicament. We are willing to offer our assistance once our own situation is resolved.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


Dear President Alejandro,
While most of the changes to the proposed neutrality agreement are acceptable to us, we would like to reserve the right to counter-invade if your allies to declare war upon us, as taking territory of theirs will allow us to draw a war to an earlier conclusion by bringing them to the negotiation table. Of course if a similar situation were to arise for you, we would apply that same condition.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


Dear Mr. Xi Li,

We would propose the following amounts for our weapons development deal:

*insert jargon for the following OOC stats*

[OOC: I propose that I contribute 3 Research, and 2 Morale and China contributes an equivalent point value of Economy and Morale]

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


Dear Leader of Ethiopia,
We are aware of the Patriot Compacts and Federation's intentions, and are currently planning our own countermeasures. We would like to inquire if there are any nations to your awareness that would be willing to lend us military aid?
Sincerely,
Mr. President

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale 3
The Coastal Coalition needs to understand that the Patriots approached us with plans to take over the entire continent, your nation included. We accept the Coastal Coalition's choice if the reason is for peace. However, to say that any action against the Patriots is an "aggressive war" is to grossly downplay the motives of the Patriots. They will never accept the Coastal Coalition's sovereignty unless forced to. This is not a matter of speculation, all of us know this as fact.

We hope the Coastal Coalition understands who its friends are in these times. We thank you for your hope we are correct in this, even if you choose another path.

We have been able to get the other nations of the North-South American Free Trade Association to consider bringing in other members. It's merely a matter of agreeing to the conditions to accept new members.

The Compact would make an amendment to the Lodge's idea, and merely have the vote be over 50% to accept a new member. Also to clarify, who do count among the founding member nations at this point?

[Andre]

KNIGHTS HOSPITALLER

The streets and markets of a severely diminished (compared to the pre-winter Israeli financial capital) Tel-Aviv are yet vivid and bustling with activities, the city being one of the least austere of the Hospitallers strongholds. A good place as any in order not to draw way too much attention onto the diplomatic conference about to take place; most people pay no mind to even such an ostentatious showing as the Russian delegation provides. While the Grand Master himself is rumoured to have moved in secret from Jerusalem to attend the conference in person, no frills or parades but a honour guard of 36 knights are involved in the accomodation of the russians.

The Grand Master, Tomàs de l'Isle Adam, is indeed in Tel-Aviv. He offers his apologies for his tardiness in setting up the meeting and announces that no Achaemenid delegation has of yet crossed the border, at least according to official reports.

"If anything these delays might allow us to tackle the crysis at hand with more information at our disposal. The identity of the faction who would escalate pre-existing tensions between France and Roma is unknown to me, but it hardly takes a huge leap of imagination to figure which of them could have had the resources at its disposal to do so. And it goes without saying that the inclusion of two african nations into the Roman Block, likely as a response to this, is indeed quite threatening, especially as we do not know to which extent the Patriots, and perhaps Ethiopia, are willing to back this coalition. Although what do the african nations stand to gain from this treaty eludes me."

Someone once told me he thought wisdom to be curiosity tempered with caution. Cute, wouldn't you agree? My friends look at the incidents in Europe and ask themselves "Why?" - but only more question come down this train of thought. They then ponder "Who?" - and they figure it might be reasonable to extend their gaze beyond central Europe to catch a glimpse of those who have sped ud along such escalations, of those who had the means to do so.

[Murska]

Public Declaration

In view of the recent militarization of the Mediterranean nations and secret negotiations with and between governments whose public goals have for decades been opposed as existential threats to each other, Novaya Russia cancels the scheduled reductions in both mobilization level and force deployments.

Novaya Russia to South Africa, France

We are unsurprised to see that Rome never had any peaceful intentions after all.

If the French authorities agree, I would accept South Africa into the defensive alliance.

Threefold Conference [PM]

"Our suspicions fall squarely on the Illuminati as the ones who might benefit from such conflict and are capable of subverting both French and Roman authorities simultaneously.

It does seem, however, that the Romans are not exactly intent on letting a minor glitch such as a third party provocation stop their desire for war.

What worries me about the Mediterranean alliance is that the Roman public goal has always been to unify the old Roman Empire and Europe, the Iberian stated intentions are to take over and dominate the Mediterranean, and the African Union is intent on forcing all of Africa under their rule. Why would these diametrically opposed governments work together?"

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
We apologize if the agreement was poorly written, as our diplomats are still learning. Should the Patriots decide to invade any other nation, besides the Coalition, it would not invalidate the terms of the neutrality agreement, regardless of the Coalition's stance towards the other nation (and visa, versa, of course, though the Coalition has no intention of invading anyone).

The only clause related to any ally's territory is the right to defend their territory with our military force. If you would like to add a clause that the Coalition will not move its forces to defend an ally who declares unprovoked war upon you or a similar exception clause we would be open to accepting that (pending exact wording, of course). Alternatively, if you would just like to make it explicit that the agreement says nothing about Patriot or Coalition army movements outside of each others territories we would accept that as well.

We look forward to a brighter future for both our peoples. Thank you.
We have always known that the Patriots intend to conquer the entire territory of the former United States, I do not believe they have made any effort to hide their ambitions. It is our hope that, by demonstrating to them the value of a neutral force on their border working to make the world better for everyone, their ambitions may yet be tempered and they may grow to accept partial control.

We believe that the force required to convince the Patriots to recognize our territory, and the territory of the other nations within the borders of the former United States, may yet be achieved through words and demonstration rather than warfare. Should the Patriots be made aware that an attack on any of us will be responded to by all of us, I believe they would temper their ambitions and avoid provoking such a force. Together we are stronger than any one nation could ever be alone.

This is the Coastal Coalition's stance on the matter. We will not attack, nor condone an unprovoked attack, against another nation. We will gladly work together to protect the borders of all nations within the the former US territory but we will not declare war unless attacked first. We hope you can understand our stance and we may all be able to stand together against any unprovoked aggression. Thank you.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

to NSAFTA (MOR 3)

NSAFTA members,

The Illuminati is seeking to become a member of your trade group, although before becoming a member we would like to know what would be required of us?

~Grand Master Mason Scott McAuthor

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

PM
With everything that's been stated, we still want to remove the Patriots. All we need is your commitment in this war against the Patriots and we will attack this year.

Morale 3
As stated, we respect the Coastal Coalition's position with the only exception being your definition of "unprovoked". By the Coastal Coalition's standard, provocation only occurs during the very act of war no matter how many years of plotting occurred before hand, no matter how many acts occurred with the full intent of eventually going to war. However, that is a difference of opinion that each of our nations is entitled to.

We will consider what the Coastal Coalition has said though, and make our decision.

[ArcaneStomper]

Imperium Romanum to the Patriots
We can offer to invite you to the alliance we have developed. Your enemies may be less likely to attack you when they know you are not alone.

China to the Patriots
Most excellent, we will start retooling our factories right away.

Ethiopia to the Patriots [PM]
You are already allied with Rome. They are your most likely supporters. You may also try the nations of South America or Asia who have less concerns about your territorial expansion.

Ethiopia to the Knights Hospitaller
"That my friend is a question that is most pressing. It is best not answered where it might be overheard and without careful thought as to the consequences of knowing the answer."

France to Novaya Russia, South Africa
We agree as well.

[Murska]

Stand tall against the Central Powers

South Africa has joined the mutual defence treaties between France and Novaya Russia.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 6


Dear Emperor of Rome,
We would be honored to join your Mediterranean Alliance.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
Head of the Patriots



Dear President Alejandro,
We were leaning more towards the latter clause. We want to be able to hold some leverage in case your allies do determine it necessary to declare war. If we were not allowed to move into their territory in that case without your troops moving in, it would provide additional incentive for them to continue an offensive against us. I would suggest that we leave the determination of unprovoked war to a third party nation, perhaps Ethiopia or Mann's Piety?
Sincerely,
Mr. President
Leader of the Patriots


Dear Leader of Ethiopia,
We thank you for your advice. Could you please just simply respond to this message to confirm that you've received it?
Sincerely,
Mr. President
Leader of the Patriots

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
That is acceptable to us. As we have stated we will not support an unprovoked war, regardless of the involved parties. We agree to leaving the determination of provocation to a neutral third party. How does these terms for our agreement sound to you?

Neutrality Agreement between the Coastal Coalition and The Patriots
The Patriots shall recognize that the Coastal Coalition hold sovereignty over their current territory, as well as any other territory they legally claim within the duration of this agreement.
The Coastal Coalition shall recognize that The Patriots hold sovereignty over their current territory, as well as any other territory they legally claim within the duration of this agreement.
Neither party shall conduct any military or espionage related acts within the territory of the other.

In the case of war between either The Patriots and the Coalition's allies or the Coalition and The Patriots' allies the following rules shall govern any military interaction between The Patriot and Coalition forces.
Hereafter the 'participating party' is the one presently engaged in war and the 'non-participating party' is the one not presently engaged that wishes to join the conflict in support of its allies, hereafter refereed to as the 'allied participant(s)'
The non-participating party shall be required to consult a neutral third party, not presently involved in the conflict and allied with neither The Patriots or the Coalition, in order to determine whether the conflict was provoked by the participating party.
The non-participating party may choose any third party nation they wish, so long as they follow these restrictions.
The participating party shall be permitted, once, to veto a third party choice in the case that they believe there is a bias at play, requiring the non-participating party to select a different neutral third party.
All communications for the entire duration in which the determination of provocation is taking place between either party and the neutral third party shall be required to be open to viewing by both parties in order to avoid any possibility of secret dealings.
The neutral third party shall determine whether the conflict was provoked by the actions of the participating party or by the actions of one or more of the allied participant(s) of the conflict.

In the case where the war is determined to have been provoked by the participating party the non-participating party shall be permitted to move its armies to defend the allied participant(s) of the conflict but shall remain subject to the prior terms of this agreement and will not be permitted to engage in warfare against the participating party on their soil.
In the case where the war is determined to have been provoked by one or more of the allied participant(s) the non-participating party shall be required to remove its forces from the war and remain neutral in the conflict.
In the case of a pure proxy war (Patriot allies vs. Coalition allies) if either party of this agreement wishes to intervene in the conflict they must declare war on the allied forces and become the participating party. The other party shall then be permitted to follow the terms of this agreement as the non-participating party to determine whether they are permitted to intervene in support of the allied participant(s).
Provocation shall, in this case, be determined by the neutral third party between the initial combatants, whether it was actions of the allies of the participating party or the non-participating party that began the conflict. In the case of the allies of the participating party being determined to have provoked the conflict the participating party shall be treated as having provoked the conflict for the purposes of this agreement.
No conflict between either party of this agreement and the allies of the other party of this agreement, regardless of provocation, shall revoke the terms of this agreement.

The agreement shall last 20 years, be publicly declared (exact terms need not be declared, simply the fact that both sides have signed a neutrality agreement with respect to one another), and will be optionally renewable at the time it expires.
Our definition of provocation shall include any scheming or harmful actions undertaken by anyone against the opposition. Rest assured, we are aware of the possibility of one nation conducting actions directly harmful to another in order to provoke them into war under the pretenses of an unprovoked attack. Provocation includes more than simply military actions, espionage and economic warfare, as well as slander on the world stage are all means of provoking an attack and we are aware of them (even if we choose not to engage in them).

At this time none of The Patriots' acts are considered provocative to us. We do not mind their claiming of the territory up to our border, merely the implication that they may attempt to move into our borders. We do not consider words alone sufficient provocation for warfare. Rest assured that, should The Patriots attempt to sabotage or otherwise force us, or any of our allies, into open warfare with them we will weigh the actions of both sides prior to the war when making our determination of provocation.

Thank you, and may the years ahead be fruitful for us all.

[Thelonius]

Solarius Cult

The Lodge [1]

"We are prepared to supply 5 [RES] for 6 [ECO]. Any cause that involves mankind reaching out into the space is certainly righteous. "

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 6


Dear President Alejandro,

Those terms are acceptable to us. Let's hope for improved relations between our two nations. All that's left is the public announcement, unless there is any other terms you'd like to add

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots.

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achaemenid Empire Mor 5

]Ibrahim al-Ḥasan was the representative of the Empire. A Muslim, born in a tent because the warlord who ruled his town had quartered troops in all the standing structures, he argued with the Emperor on matters of religion, foreign policy, and the proper way to serve arak. When asked why he kept someone so opposed to him as one of his closest advisors, the king of lands once said, "Would he seek to correct us if he did not think us worthy of being correct?"

Regardless of who started it, Rome's ambitions threaten us all. However, the King of the four corners wonders if secret diplomacy might not be a cause of the problem. There was once a period in which the discourse of nations was governed by open covenants openly arrived at. Should we three, as well as France and whatever other members exist, state our intent to support each other against Roman aggression it will strike a great blow against war. Not only will it represent an open commitment of military resources with parity or better to what Rome has assembled it will also indicate to its allies that they make themselves vulnerable should this evolve into a general war. The delay such action might provoke could allow the superior economies of our nations to complete modernization and provide us with the undeniable strategic advantage in terms of war production.

On that note, the situation in Asia concerns us, being as we are adjacent to both of the great power blocks. The economic exchange programs which we previously engaged in were mutually beneficial. Might it not, therefore, be wise to promote the development of an international economic zone to incorporate our nations as well as nations such as France and others such as shall be appropriate to engage in joint development? It seems to me that in addition to purely financial considerations, research and information would also benefit from such an arrangement.

OOC: Proposing that we contribute stats to the following:
Resurrect something like Interpol by contributing Esp to a project that protects all contributors against Esp attacks and countering such. This should allow us to undermine the Illuminati and sabotage Rome, etc.
Continue the economic programs but expand our pool of contributors to jack up the bonus.
Do that thing the golden dawn suggested but without the Southern Cross wackjobs.

The only marginal advantage to growth in this game is the joint project bonus. We can kill each other later so long as we are the ones left fighting at the end.

[Murska]

Threefold Conference [PM]

We have been publically expanding our defensive alliance network lately, and now we see Rome's response - they've gathered an alliance of their own. If a war is to come, this will just make it larger and more destructive.

Our options are to announce an alliance and hope the balance of power is far enough on our side that they will not risk war. Or strike at them where they are weak, using our advantages in economics and science as well as coordinating the world's response, forcing it to be they who spark an armed conflict if they dare. This is what I did in Germany, and it worked very well.

As for cooperation on espionage matters, I will accept such a proposal. For further economic and research cooperation, we will do so as long as we have the resources available.

((OOC: It is also more efficient to steal stats through attacks than to grow them, especially if you overwhelm the defenders by a lot.))

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition
It was a cold and rainy day, the light sound of rainfall on the rooftop creating a soothing background noise to the latest Coastal Coalition press conference. Many of the reporters were enjoying the warmth and protection of the conference room, while others were thinking ahead and dreading the return trip through the storm that showed no signs of letting up. The room grew quiet as the conference began, and then silent as the speaker completed the initial formalities and informed the gathered crowd that the President himself would be making a, very unusual, mid-year address today.

President Alejándro
"Good afternoon all. It is my pleasure to be here today to address several matters of great national importance that we felt should not be held back until next year's address, nor passed off in a minor press conference, but deserved to have everyone's full attention. There will be time for questions at the end, but for now I will go through the two items on my agenda."

"Firstly, we are pleased to report that, shortly after my last address actually, the terms of the North and South American Free Trade Agreement, or NSAFTA for short, though it's not much shorter (light laughter is heard through the audience), have been ratified and the Coastal Coalition will be giving its full support to the agreement in the year ahead. This has been a long time coming and we are pleased to join with our neighbors in the Americas in supporting free and open trade."

"Secondly, we are pleased to announce that, as of yesterday the Coastal Coalition has signed a Neutrality Agreement with The Patriots. The negotiations regarding this were also rather involved, and I would like to personally thank Mr. President for extending the olive branch, quiet unexpectedly, to us. I will admit that even I had begun to buy into some of the propaganda painting The Patriots and warmongers but I think it speaks quite well to Mr. President's character that he was the one to reach out to us and propose a treaty of non-aggression, even offering to setup a demilitarized zone if we needed such a thing to feel safe with The Patriots as our new neighbors."

"The terms of the agreement will be shared with all citizens of the Coastal Coalition, and I believe you will find them to be extremely fair. We will be open to sharing details on the agreement with other nations if they are requested but the core point of the matter is that we will be at peace with our neighbors to the north, something I know we have all wished for for some time now. We hope that we can be good neighbors to The Patriots in the days ahead and that, perhaps, we can show the world what good can come of people working together rather than squabbaling among themselves."

"Thank you. I will now open the floor to questions..."

[ArcaneStomper]

Ethiopia to the Patriots [PM]
Message received.

Public Announcement
A new member is announced today at the Mediterranean Alliance welcomes the Patriots into its numbers.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

PM
Unfortunately it appears we have lost our window of opportunity. It's not a complete loss, the Patriots are now a part of the growing tensions in Europe. Also, their attempt to take over the Coastal Coalition has been stopped, even if the Coastal Coalition failed to recognize the sacrifice both our nations made to make it possible.

We may expand a bit into the unclaimed territories, but for the moment will look to strengthen our own defenses.

[Mabn]

FSS


The Coastal Coalition's handling of this does irritate us, but a war not fought has its own uses.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to Rime Conglomerate

Mind joining the conference in Tel Aviv for a talk? Your opinion would be appreciated.

Threefold Conference [PM]

Due to these negotiations taking far longer than expected to reach any conclusion, I have taken the liberty to invite our friends in the Rime Conglomerate in order to be able to privately discuss matters relating to European stability.

Our belief is that the Illuminati are the ones sparking the flames between France and Rome, which is why we shall be striking out together in the courts of public opinion and economics alike to weaken their ability to act in our lands in the future. You are welcome to join in support.

[Nemesis67]

Rime Conglomerate

Novaya Russia (2)
Yes, we'd like to discuss the European situation with you in private.

[OOC: I am included in the Threefold Conference PM with the understanding I'll not read the messages by the other people, though ruleswise I have access to them and therefore could if I so desired.]

Threefold Conference (PM)
That is our suspicion as well. They escalated tensions between France and Rome through falsified orders, then leveraged that into reforging the UK. We'll be trying to turn their ESP away from them, and hopefully we can acquire proof as to their actions.

[ArcaneStomper]

Turn 5
January 1st, 2105

Africa
Despite significant expansions by the three major powers located there the African continent remains surprisingly calm. While the African Union expands into Morocco the Egyptian Kingdom follows the Nile south claiming it as the Great and Power Pharaoh's sovereign right to the river kingdom. South Africa meanwhile seems to be preparing for eventual conflict and reports are that it's armed services have been steadily recruiting and building up their armories.

Perhaps most surprisingly the Imperium Romanum has gifted the African Union its North African territories in a historic treaty.

North America
The North American continental powers also expand, but with considerably more tension. Whereas the African powers seem content to avoid each the American powers race towards a central meeting pointing the eastern states. As Patriot tanks grind their way west Phoenix Compact troops march east. Neither side needs actually fight. Through sheer intimidation or the promises of being something greater the people of these backwater states flock to the banners of the new nations. Even the Federal Surviving States pick up some territory from those who find neither of the other two options appealing.

The stage seems set for a new and greater conflict.

South America
Where North America is a center of commerce, industry, and military might South America is decidedly more intellectual. In the north the Solarius Cult spreads the word of the sun. Their tenets of hard work, self reliance, and devotion to the stellar body which fuels all life on Earth strikes a chord with many and citizens flock to their chapter houses.

And in the south the Lodge embarks on a great course of intellectualism modernizing all their schools in an effort to lift up the next generation to even greater heights. They also attract a significant amount of talent from other poorer countries who want to make new lives for themselves in a land where they can be appreciated for their minds and intellectual talents rather than their ability to shoot a rifle or look intimidating.

Europe
A combined effort of Russian and Conglomerate merchants as well as Achaemenid diplomats make the journey to the UK, where the Illuminati is consolidating its assets. Once there they denounce the Illuminati leadership as selfish, power hungry, puppet masters who want only to mold the world in their image at the expense of everyone else. Through copious amounts of cash and propaganda they spread this message throughout the isles.

The effect is devastating as the citizens and intelligence apparatus defects to the coalition in droves driven by both fears of secretive cabals and the allure of the higher standard of living that the coalition nations can afford.

The Emperor of Rome denounces this as a blatant attack. He argues that nations should not be allowed to impose on the sovereignty of others through the veil of ostensibly legal economic activities. The Imperium offers what aid it can to the Illuminati, and calls on other nations to join it in taking a standing before the evil merchant republics strike for a third time.

Asia
Alone among the continents Asia proves to be a bastion of cooperation where there was once only animosity. The Asian Prosperity Sphere has announced its intentions to combine the best of Japanese ingenuity, Chinese work ethic, and Order technology to the creation of a cutting edge Current Generation Station.

Located at the conflux of two major currents the massive new floating platform will harvest the very movements of the oceans to generate vast amounts of power for the entire region once completed. It is a heralded as a sign of cooperation and ascension to a new golden age.

CCN
These reports and more brought to you by the Coastal Coalition News Network. Your satellite radio uplink to the latest global affairs and world news. Guaranteed to be up to date and held to the highest standards of journalistic integrity.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

To France (MOR 3)

These attacks on our image by the Russians and their allies are unacceptable. Apparently they had been planning on stabbing us in the back for months to have such a plan ready to go. Before this grows any worse, we would like to have a meeting between them to see if they are willing to make ammends for their mistake. Would you be willing to host those negotiations, and if they are unwilling to have peace would you be willing to cut off any deals you have with them? If they are not willing to have peace we cannot allow them access to our country, and they will use you to get to us.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

January 1st 2105 turned out to be a rather chilly day (by coastal standards, of course), with bright clue skies and only slight hints of clouds over the ocean. The annual presidential address was, once again, returned to the capital building, though the addition of video cameras to the room and the larger bank of microphones being used showed clearly that things were not exactly as they had been in past years.

President Alejándro
"Welcome all. I am pleased to see so many of our citizens here in the room with me and, for the first time, I am pleased to be able to wave hello to citizens across the Coastal Coalition. Thanks to the efforts of our tirelessly dedicated scientists and engineers we now have access to far better means of communicating than simple radio broadcasts, a fact for which I am immensely grateful."

"I would also like to greet any citizens of other nations who may be watching this broadcast via our newly established global news network. It is a privilege to be able to speak on such a global scale instantly and I hope that, in the years to come, we will all benefit from improved cooperation and unity. The cataclysm tore us all apart from one another. It is my hope that, perhaps, we have taken one small step towards a united tomorrow."

"In addition to our new communication network I would like to take a moment to thank the small and large business owners for their work in quickly and efficiently adapting to the NSAFTA. While it is true that some businesses have become harder to operate thanks to the influx of trade we have adapted exceptionally well to the expanding trade market and our economy is booming. That is not thanks to the efforts of your government, but to you, the citizens who have seen and taken new opportunities. Moving forwards it will be up to our citizens to carry on this work as the government turns to other matters in the years ahead."

(*small break as papers are shuffled around*)

"I'm certain that some of your caught my turn of phrase earlier and perhaps were preparing to write some speculation as to our plans. I'm afraid I will have to dash that hope, as I have an incredibly important announcement to make. After weeks of feasibility estimates and some very complex math that was well above my pay grade (*light chuckling from the audience can be heard*) we have set a goal for our nation, one which I hope you all will join me in reaching towards. We are going back to the moon."

(*loud noises of shock from the audience, then fading to quiet*)

"Project Phoebus will be the name of our return trip to the moon, and it has already begun the initial planning states in 2104. We will be pushing nearly all of our efforts in 2105 towards this project, with the goal of developing the technologies required to make the return trip in 2106. This will not be an easy task, and I certain that some will question the wisdom of this plan in light of the still ravaged Earth, but a manned lunar mission is the first step towards humanity's destiny of spreading to the stars."

"We have waited long enough. It is time to step into the future."

"Thank you all for your time and attention."

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
The Coastal Coalition proposes permitting Illuminati entrance to the NSAFTA, under the condition that they contribute to the agreement at the same rate as all other member nations and follow all NSAFTA rules.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
The State of the Union address always drew a large crowd of people. This year, Mr. President stepped out to deafening applause as he stood on top of the Empire State House.

"This past year has been... eventful. First, there have been four great events that have happened during this past year. We've eased tensions with the Coastal Coalition and signed a 20-year neutrality pact, that will hopefully be a sign of good diplomatic relations in the future." Mr. President pauses for another round of deafening applause. "In addition, we've finally reclaimed the original thirteen colonies which is a bright sign for the future. We are now looking toward a future of reconstruction and development as well as continued expansion in order to bring as much order and prosperity as we can to the world."

"Third, we've recently entered into the Mediterranean Alliance, an alliance that already contains one of our great allies Rome. This will increase our national security and provide a way to enter the global political sphere. Finally, we've signed a cooperative research/production agreement with China allowing for us to redirect some of our own production towards more internal purposes."

"Unfortunately, this past year has not been perfect. Still there are major factions that would condemn as warlords, especially in the west. While they claim our rapid expansion is a power-play for the whole continent, they have made similar expansions themselves. Not to mention, we as a state started with far fewer territories than they did. Our allies in Europe have informed us, that the Russians and the Rime Conglomerate have been spreading chaos and disorder in the United Kingdoms, which can not be accepted in this new world."

Morale 6

The Patriots also support the acceptance of the Illuminati into NSAFTA in light of recent events

[Murska]

Novaya Russia

It is the right of every man, woman and child on this planet to pursue life, liberty and happiness wherever they may find it. We pacify lands, clean out bandits and warlords and provide food, clean water, electricity. We are called, not by the people we liberated but by others who watch from their high citadels, aggressive and expansionistic. We open trade routes, sell the people of unsafe and devastated lands the means to grow food, build houses, the arms to defend themselves, and we are called, again from the sidelines, profiteers and merchants of death. We offer the people of foreign lands hope for a better future, an option to help all of humanity and to develop their future, we give families the funds to move to our prosperous cities and jobs to work for the benefit of society, away from petty kings and short-sighted tyrants, and we are called harbingers of chaos and disorder. Not by those we saved, but by others who watch in envy at our progress.

What are we to take from this but to see that no matter how good your intentions and how pure your actions, there are always those who seek for any excuse to increase tensions and take offense. Generally those who lack any other strength but strength of arms, who hold their power at gunpoint because they have nothing else to offer.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale 5
Given the current state of North America and the high tensions, we think it would be a good idea to avoid two countries trying to claim the same territory. If both of you are amenable to discuss this, then we will share our own plans for expanding our borders.

We are attempting to start talks with both the FSS and Patriots to ensure that there are no accidents should two nations attempt to claim the same territory.

We also wanted to make sure we understand your neutrality agreement with the Patriots. Our first question is if you trust the Patriots will uphold their end of the deal. If so, we won't worry about the prospect of them invading you. Secondly, so we understand our own national security, if hypothetically the Patriots were to invade either the FSS or ourselves, does your neutrality agreement forbid you from coming to the defense of either of us if the Patriots were the aggressor?

Know that despite our disagreements, our aim last year was to ensure that the Patriots did not invade you and become the dominant force in North America. To that end, we are happy it did not come to that. One last question we want to know is whether or not the FSS and us had a role in the Patriots change of heart. It's our impression that it's so, but we would hear it from you to confirm it.

The Phoenix Compact also agrees in allowing the Illuminati into trade talks so long as they abide by the same rules.

We would like to ask each nation if they have supplied [1 espionage] as was agreed upon?

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)

We believe that The Patriots will uphold their end of our neutrality agreement. We are not betting everything on it, and are still working to modernize and prepare our military, but the fallout from a violation of a neutrality agreement they signed in good faith, particularly with their apparent desire to throw off the view that they are warmongers, would seem sufficient motivation to hold to the agreement, at least for the time being. We are not overly concerned about a surprise attack at this time.

Our agreement is that neither of our nations shall conduct any military attacks on the soil of the other. In the case where the Patriots attack another nation* we are required to have the situation analyzed by a neutral third party and, if they determine that the Patriot attack was unprovoked, the Coalition's military is free to move to the defense of that ally but still restricted from directly attacking the Patriots.

So in your hypothetical case we would be allowed to send our military to defend your territory under the terms of our agreement. We spend the majority of the time of our negotiations hammering this out, we wished to make it clear that our neutrality agreement with the Patriots was not an abandoning of the other nations of the Americas to their aggression should they choose to attack.

The Coastal Coalition holds no ill will towards you or the Federation. 2104 was a difficult year for us all and I am pleased we were able to come to a diplomatic solution. I cannot confirm for certain if Federation and Compact diplomacy was the direct cause between the Patriot's sudden diplomatic outburst, but I can inform you that they seemed quite worried about the prospect of all three of our nations working together against them, so it is likely that whatever you discussed with them took hold.

We thank you for any efforts on our behalf. Should you be put in a similar situation know that the Coastal Coalition will do everything in its power to come to your aid, we do not wish to see any of the diverse and unique nations that have developed wiped out and will gladly lend our support to protecting you or the Federation (though I must re-iterate that we will not support an unproved war of aggression against anyone).

*This term also applies in reverse, but the Coalition has no intentions of expanding our territory by force, so it's easier to speak of it solely as Patriot aggression. All terms of our agreement were bilateral, however.
The Coastal Coalition has upheld it's commitment to supply information to the NSAFTA oversight organization in 2104 and intends to continue doing so in 2105.

(OOC: Yes, I put my 1 Espionage in 2104 to NSAFTA. This was actually the main driving force for developing my Espionage rating to 2, so I could still have 1 for defense)

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 6


We've made the necessary Espionage donations at this time


Dear Mr. Leon and Ms. Philips,
Given the current diplomatic climate, particularly the attempts to use the Coastal Coalition as a means of waging proxy warfare against us, that it would be imprudent to share any military information with your states, at least without due compensation.

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Morale 5
To the self-titled Mr. President,

Do not try to take any moral high ground. You came to us but a few years ago with the offer to conquer the rest of the nations of North America. You then had the lack of judgment to then suggest we capitulate as well, revealing how little we could trust you. You continued to hold that offer out to us year after year, with the full intent to conquer all you could. We did not use the Coastal Coalition for anything. You were going to invade them until you realized it would not work. You had every intention to move west after you did, until you realized it was no longer possible.

You will receive no compensation. You will receive instead this advice. All your allies are locked in a standoff in Europe. You should perhaps focus on your dreams of conquest there, as should you move any further west you will run into the sovereign territory of either the Federation of Surviving States or the Phoenix Compact. It will be an act of aggression that your defensive pact will have no responsibility to take part of. Your aspirations of a unified United States is over. Face the reality of the 22nd century, and perhaps in time trust and respect can be earned. Continue to flaunt yourselves in the shadows of the past, and you will only have the distrust and enmity of those you would subjugate.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 6


Dear "Mr." Leon and Ms. Philips
CC:President Alejandro
Any evidence of such a plan is circumstantial at best and forged at the worst. However, all three parties was able to read your transmission of your attempts to convince President Alejandro of declaring unprovoked warfare upon our territory. An attempt, that to all current military standings, would have been military suicide for the Coastal Coalition with no ability of the Phoenix Compact or the Federation to reach the coalition for aid before our own military could have wiped them off the face of the planet. For the last two years the Patriots has been within striking range of the Coalition, if we were so easily provoked to war we would have done so by now.

Our own allies may be tied up in a clash of politics in the East, but do not take that to mean that we ourselves are weak. We know the terms of our own agreement with the Coastal Coalition and have no intent on violating the agreement. However, that does not mean you are entitled to hear our own confidential military plans in exchange for information that for all intents and purposes I cannot trust. Your own assumptions of our warmongering nature are unfounded, and we have no reason to agree to such a mockery.

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots

[Mabn]

FSS


We have no interest in splitting the east coast with anyone, because we have no interest in ruling any part of the east coast. There is a world of difference between our establishment of a few mercantile way-stations and the psychotic conquest some mad dogs might accuse us of mimicking. We have not and do not subject external populations and are grievously aggravated by rumors to that effect. As befitting our policy of free media access, any nation is welcome to check this.

[ArcaneStomper]

France to the Illuminati
Of course we are more than willing to help you resolve your problems with Russia. We will convene a conference.

France to Russia, Switzerland, Rime Conglomerate, Illuminati, Rome, Iberia
We are hosting a conference with the Illuminati to help resolve these current issues and hopefully bring peace to Europe. We invite you to attend.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

Peace Talks (Russia, France, Switzerland, Rime Conglomerate, Illuminati, Rome, Iberia)

I would like to thank everyone for attending. We are here because Russia and the Rime have made a blatant and deliberate attack against the us. They did not draw blood, but choose to slander and divide a people trying to rebuild a nation.

We are willing to still give peace a chance, but Russia and the Rime must be willing to make amends to their transgressions and stop their attempts to start a war. We require 3 things from Russia and the Rime for peace to hold. These are not combined numbers, but for each of you individually.

1) You must announce to the world and your people that your attempts at destabilizing a nation were evil actions that you regret and will not do again.
2) You must allow us access to your espionage networks to verify you do not continue these actions (2 ESP permanent)
3) You must pay for the damages to our image (5 ECON for one turn)



NSAFTA

What are the current requirements? 1 ESP and 3 ECON?

[Murska]

Peace Talks

"An attack? Reparations? We've done nothing wrong. We hired people from your nation and convinced them to move and come work with us. If you are willing to consider such an act of war, we can oblige - as a sidenote I would like to announce the recent accession of South Africa, Hospitallers and the Neo-Achaeminid Empire into our defensive alliance - but we're not going to be the ones to start spilling blood when we can't get our way through diplomacy and economics.

If you want to create international laws regarding certain kinds of economic activity, we are willing to negotiate and accept such as a means of stabilization in a growingly tense world. But if you cannot hold the loyalty of your people, you do not deserve those people."

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

Peace Talks

You have called us power hungry puppet masters who care nothing for their people. That is the kind of slander that leads countries to civil war, and coming from an outside country can be seen as nothing other than an attack. If you truely seek peace then think and look through our proposal, because we trusted and worked with you to stabilize Europe just a while ago.

We are trying to give peace a chance, and to do that you must first be able to realize destabilizing a country is not a peaceful way to interact in the world. That is the reason for the first requirement, that you admit to the world what you did was wrong.

The second point is about building trust. You have stabbed us in the back, by acting like our friends then spreading lies to our people. That is the reason for point 2, giving us some access to your operations to foster the trust that is currently broken.

The third point is about regonizing us as a country and ligitimate authority in the world. Otherwise your words of peace are empty, and you will continue to work toward our destruction.

[Murska]

Peace Talks

"When have you helped us in any way? When have we acted as your friends? We have had no interactions whatsoever on a nation-to-nation level, and unlike some tyrannical rulers we don't try to impose state control on the actions of individual merchants operating entirely within the constraints of the law. If your government can't handle minor slander from independent civilians without 'destabilizing', as you say, don't you think there might be something to the accusations after all?"

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achaemenid Empire Moral 5
It has pleased the King of Lands to consider your proposals and he has concluded to act as benefits the ancient unity of our peoples.
OOC: Shall we begin doing that esp alliance bit? Say 1 or 2 to start with? I am given to understand that esp alliance provide a bigger effective esp than was put in. Assuming it is 20% like other things, we would want 5 total to give us a 6th "free" point.

Now that this matter with the Illuminati appears concluded, the King of the Four Corners wishes to resume the prosperous flourishing of relations which previously were to our benefit.
OOC: Shall we get back to that Econ sharing bit? I believe my last proposal was 3Econ a turn.

Haxamanis, King in Anshan, King in Persia, the King of Lands, regard your actions as well as the tensions of Europa and wishes to secure the blessings of prosperity and peace for his people.
OOC: Would you be willing to let me join in on this econ alliance of yours? I would be willing to sign mutual defensive treaties. A PM conference for negotiations would be acceptable. Adding another country would increase the bonus by another 10% based on what Arcane has said.

[Murska]

Neo-Achaeminid Empire, Hospitallers

Yes, continuing with economic cooperation is acceptable to us.

[ArcaneStomper]

Asian Prosperity Sphere
Such things are best discussed in person rather than through such impersonal means as these. We invite you to the annual APS summit to discuss your possible inclusion in the sphere.

Peace Conference
(OOC: Just so we're all clear while countries do have something of a private sector all your actual stats represent some form of government control. You can't send your economy, which is your government budget, to conduct a hostile takeover and claim it was just random investors any more than you could send a tank division and claim it was a rogue mercenary group.

Or well you could, but without some form of espionage smokescreen no NPC is going to buy it.)

[Exthalion]

So PM summit?

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

Peace Talks

We thought we were working together to bring peace to Europe, but apparently we were wrong in that thought. And those provokers were not independant businesses, but diplomats carrying Russian funds into our country. For the sake of peace we'll give this last chance, otherwise we will have no option but to bar any of your people from entering our country.


To France (MOR 3)

They do not appear to have any intentions of peace, and by their plans they never did. Are you willing to nullify any treaties you have with them?


To Coastal Coalition (MOR 3)

As I'm sure you've heard, the Russians have started a propaganda war with us. Are you willing to help us in our fight? We'd like to use your satilite communications to help bring the true nature of their government to their people.

[ArcaneStomper]

Asian Prosperity Sphere Summit (PM)
The summit is held in the tropical islands of the New Horizons, the most neutral of all the members. The staffs graciously welcomes the Achaeminid envoys and shows them to their rooms. They have a day to enjoy the tropical weather and meet the other guests, and then the summit officially starts.

The initial business is fairly mundane. The topic of the new current generation station is brought up and reports made on its current state. Next a general briefing on the global economy. Finally the topic of the Achaeminid's joining is raised. This is the envoy's chance to make their case.

France to the Illuminati
We are not quite so willing to abandon our first ally. Although we have admittedly had increasing reservations over the past few years they are still a bulwark against Roman Aggression. Without some guarantee of peace we would not be willing to abandon Russia.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
I'm afraid we have not heard anything about this. We have been somewhat distracted by the situation on the Americas and our own space program so we have not paid much attention to the activities taking place in Europe and Asia.

We do not wish to become involved in any conflict, however we will happy allow any nation to make use of our communication network. It was always intended to be a means for opening communication between all peoples of the world and if you wish to use it to speak directly to the people of Russia we will not stand in your way. If you could inform us of what they have been doing you so strenuously object to we may be willing to lend additional (non-military) support. Thank you.

[Murska]

Peace Talks

"To my knowledge there is no armed conflict in Europe, mostly thanks to the alliance bloc formed by ourselves to prevent militaristic states from imposing their will on their neighbours. If you wanted to promote peace on the continent, you should have contacted us in some way.

Look, it is very saddening that your government has been so thoroughly shaken by the recent events. We will make sure to reign in the more mercantile interests within the Russian sphere in the future. It's an unfortunate event, but it's not a war, it is not an attack nor does it have any potential to cause any true harm unless your society was already fragile.

As a concession to diplomacy, and if the Rime Conglomerate agrees, we may give a public apology for the misleading statements given by people ostensibly in our employ - it is quite clear that you do care about the people under your care, or you wouldn't have bothered to kick up such a fuss over the incident."

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

Peace Talks

I can accept that. Hopefully we can begin to work together and put this nasty past behind us.


France (MAN 3)

I worry about them being exactly like Rome. They slowly steal power from surrounding countries until they are strong enough to attack and conquer the full territory. We are giving them another chance, with their public statement apologizing for their actions.


Coastal Collation (MAN 3)

They have agreed to publicly apologize for their attack, and if they follow through we wont take action against them. Simply put, they came into our country and began spreading propaganda saying the Illuminati are uncaring and evil. They were trying to start a rebellion in the UK, then tried to shrug off their attack as a non-issue.

What commitment is required for the NSAFTA?

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achaemenid Empire Moral 5
Kurus, son of Haxamanis, Prince in Persia, Prince of Lands, Prince of the Four Corners, Heir to the Throne of his father, an Achaemenid arrives without a great deal of fanfare. He enjoys the hospitality that is shown but is eager to begin, and when it is time to make his case he does so without a prepared speech.

"I begin in gratitude, for myself and the welcome you have offered and for my father and my land to whom you have given this opportunity.

The case for the inclusion of the Empire in this illustrious body consists of multiple points, many of which at first glance appear disparate but, like our land, form an interlocking, and mutually supportive, whole.

The first is obvious, yet by its very obviousness must be stated lest it is lost in plain sight. The Neo-Achaemenid Empire is Asian. True, it is not part of the common, exception modern, conception of Asia or what it means to be Asian. However, before anything resembling a modern line was drawn across the earth, the people of the Empire were connected with all the cultures of Asia. This shared history is not an ancient tie which compels or entitles us to inclusion, but rather a constant conversation which our civilizations have been engaged in since the dawn of civilization itself.

The second point which must be raised is more pragmatic. The King of Kings has observed the situation in Europe and Africa and is not well pleased by what he sees. The continents seem poised, as they ever seem to be, on the brink of war. It is a war that does not concern us except in so much as we are potential targets of aggression or a theater in which the belligerents may fight without ruining their own lands. There is no doubt that ancient grievances exist between some of the constituent groups of the empire with factions which will be involved in such a war. However, there comes a point where the tally of grievances grows too heavy a burden to bear. We have resolved, as a union of diverse peoples, that we value our lives and the lives of our children more than the slights done to old bones.

Third, the King of the Four Corners earnestly desires to increase the welfare of his people and to promote their happiness and prosperity. The economic developments which this body has engaged in point to a similar outlook. My father has, on multiple occasions, attempted to form a similar situation with his Western neighbors and been rewarded with tepid interest and meager gains. He is willing to commit to this alliance because it has shown that it will reward commitment."

[ArcaneStomper]

France to the Illuminati
We can completely understand that point, and in truth we also asked them to stop their similar efforts against Rome. If only because it is goading Rome into responding with force.

Asian Prosperity Sphere Summit (PM)
China: Those are most salient points. We agree wholeheartedly, and would welcome your contribution to the sphere. With many hands at work we shall all know prosperity.

Japan: We aren't so certain. Those of us already here have already put in much to the Sphere. Should we reward a newcomer with the same access to our markets and the benefit of our infrastructure that we have worked hard to build.

Southern Cross: We are less concerned with the economic integration as we are the military implications. None of us have any quarrel with Europe nor them with us, but the Achaemenid Empire lies situated at a crossroads of several of the European belligerents. Should Europe erupt in flames the Achaemenids may be drawn in whether they wish to be or not, and us with them if we allow them to join our sphere.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
(OOC: 1 Espionage per turn is the only commitment)

[Murska]

Novaya Russia

We wish to publically apologize for the actions of some of our affiliated businesses being overzealous in their relief efforts, calling the newly established Illuminati rulership in the United Kingdom corrupt, power-hungry and selfish. There is no proof or evidence for the veracity of such statements, and so they should be ignored. Those responsible will be reprimanded.

[Nemesis67]

Rime Conglomerate

"The Board of the Rime Conglomerate apologize for the actions taken by some of our member corporations this past year. The statements made by said members do not reflect the positions of the Board itself nor the Conglomerate as a collective entity. The claims made have no evidence behind them, and were not approved by this body."

[ArcaneStomper]

Turn 6
January 1st, 2016

North America
The Patriots continue to expand moving north from their continued holdings into the harsh warrior lands of Canada. There they have contended with some of the most powerful warlords in the world, but have managed to establish holdings along the border of the Second Nations. This has added fuel to allegations from the Phoenix Compact that the Patriots are nothing more than bloodthirsty barbarians who seek to dominate not just North America, but the entire world. This has led to a sharp downturn in global opinion of the militaristic state.

In a surprise move Novaya Russia has also established a foothold on the continent. The Russian navy has landed a beachhead on the Canadian Atlantic coast and begun moving inland to meet with the locals and build supply bases throughout the region. Their motives for arriving in North America are as yet unclear.

South America
The biggest news from the land of the sun is that the new Solarius University of Journalism. With global coverage once more becoming commonplace the university has been founded to teach prospective journalists and reporters how to investigate, how to communicate, and how to maintain an unbiased attitude in the face of global politics.

Europe
Despite fears of a third world war things have not yet erupted into conflict in Europe. Although all the various powers remain alert and the cold war along the Roman-Russian border is very much alive. Of note is the populace of France who have tired of the constant belligerence and have begun rioting against their governments preparations for war. They call for a withdrawal from the alliance and a stance of neutrality in Europe.

Asia
Kazakhstan becomes a point of contention as different powers vie for the region. The most successful is the benevolent Solarius cult who show the various warlords and city states of the region how they can both achieve prosperity and peace of mind by following the word of the sun. This is in contrast to the Achaemenid's setlers who invade the region with heavy military escorts and an uncaring commitment to materialism.

Further west the Asian Prosperity Sphere is rapidly becoming the most significant economic zone on the planet. With affordable goods, easy travel between members, and a commitment to economic development infrastructure has blossomed across the land. And the new Current Generation has started to come online providing cheap and plentiful power for the entire region.


Africa
Perhaps the least interesting place in the world at this point is Africa. Unlike other nations the African powers seem content to leave each other alone, and tend to their own affairs. The only piece of news is the word that most of Morocco has agreed to make the Solarius's sun worship their national religion.

[Exthalion]

Asian Prosperity Sphere [PM]
The points you raise are ones important to my father as well.

To the representatives of the Middle Kingdom, please accept my appreciation and thanks. Your words encourage me that despite the difficulties of this move that our difficulties are not intractable.

Regarding the economic points raised by Nippon, we are willing to accept a period of initial greater investments on our part in order to bring our total contributions in line with those of the existing members. I do wish to stress that our entrance to the sphere would not represent an act of charity. Achaemenid infrastructure represents some of the greatest strides ever made in providing productive and sustainable development in arid regions without the inclusion so-called "natural" features such as rivers. We have managed to bring hundreds of millions of culturally and ethnically diverse people out of poverty in a handful of years without any major incidents of violence. Our education system compares favorably with the best of pre-winter nations. Moreover, we continue to improve our techniques and facilities. Morever, as we represent a crossroads between Europe and Asia it would not only be our markets but also Europe in general to which you will gain access.

Finally, in answer to the honorable representatives of the Order of the Southern Cross, we are open to suggestions. We do not want to become involved in any war general or local. We have recently begun to distance ourselves from European adventurers. However, historical precident suggests that regardless of what happens to us Asia will not be uneffected by Europe's troubles. Modern technology has made Russia able to project power into Siberia, a state of affairs we can do nothing to effect. (OOC rules being what they are) However, evidence seems to confirm that we are better neighbors than any which could potentially prevail militarily over us. We serve, as it were, as the guardians of the West as far as Asia is concerned.

[daelrog]

Phoenix Compact

Public Announcement
The Patriots continue to show the world the threat they are. When they are denied expanding to the south they turn north. Should they be deterred in the west, they will go east. They have even now conquered lands that did not belong to the old empire they wish emulate. For their continued warmongering across our shared continent, the Compact no longer recognizes the legitimacy of the Patriots' government. Any further expansion of the Patriots, whether against any of the four sovereign North American powers they now border, or against anyone else in the Western Hemisphere will be seen as an act of hostility against the Compact as well.

Morale 6
The Compact would like to know under what conditions the Patriots were allowed to become a member of a mutual defense pact, whose purpose was to deter conflict around the Mediterranean, and whether or not your four nations can still accept the Patriots as a member of this alliance after they've now conquered lands which they had no claim to historically. It is unlikely you'll find even one power more mistrusted than the Patriots, or find even one nation who is a greater threat to be allied with. They have set themselves up as the enemy of every other North American power, and you risk being drawn halfway across the world, when your concerns are closer to home.

Our request of your nations is to recognize the Patriots' actions to date as acts of aggression against the rest of the North American sovereign powers, acts that break whatever conditions your mutual defense alliance have.

We are interested in what prompted you to come to the western hemisphere, and what further plans you have. This is not a demand, but a request out of curiosity, to better understand you and where you stand in regards to the politics or our region of the world.

As you can see, we took the initiative to condemn the Patriots and make sure they had no moral standing to fall back on with other powers. Right now, we are seeing how effective we were or not in this endeavor. We are also going to reach out to the Second Nations and offer them protection against the Patriots.

We want the Second Nations to know that we stand by you should the Patriots attack you. We would like to make this statement public with your permission.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 7

Mr. President takes the podium looking much older and grayed than usual. "The allegations by the Phoenix Compact are technically correct, the Patriots have laid claim to territories outside of our own historical claims. But I would like to respond with this, are the lands that we have now claimed any worse off under our government where they are able to receive the supplies they need from our own supply change. That they are free from the tyranny of the warlords that suppressed them. Yes, we may have took some of their lands by force, but over time they will find that their quality of life has actually increased. While the Phoenix Compact may feel it necessary for their own ego to denounce us as egotistical warlords, we are spreading much more order and peace than they have. While they have spent time denouncing us and proclaiming us monsters, we the Patriots have rebuilt bridges, and pushed out many other warlords who were subjugating their people. If the Phoenix Compact decides to go to war with us, we will fight back. However, we have no reason to halt our own development simply due to their idle threats.

Onward to this year's goals, we will be rebuilding much of the damaged infrastructure in our Canadian territory, and hopefully establishing a public education system that will raise the youth of our nation. While the Phoenix Compact has saw fit to declare us warlords, we would like to ring in the New Year with a celebration of peace, and rebuilding."



From the Office of Mr. President
Dear President Alejandro,
We would like to reaffirm our position of military neutrality, and to ensure you that we have no intentions of launching a military counter-attack against the Phoenix Compact at this point. While, they have saw fit to denounce us as bloody warlords and try to ruin our international reputation, we will not be taking military action.

Otherwise, we have another proposal for you. In recent years, the rebuilding and expansion of our territory has resulted in an economic surplus. It is to our understanding that your nation is at the cutting edge of technology. We would like to use some of our surplus to help build your own infrastructure in exchange for the loan of some of your researchers to give guest lectures at our own blossoming public education system.
(OOC: I'm proposing that I invest some of my economy points in whatever you want for this turn, in exchange for you putting some research points this turn into improving my own research)

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots



From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Elder Flying Fox.
We would like to extend out a hand in aid of your cause. It is to our understanding that you are trying to provide a safe haven by those who have been displaced by war. Because of our own aggressive expansion, we have displace many refugees our selves. We would offer to provide the use of our own navy to help escort these refugees to your safe havens. In exchange, we would like to have journalist teams accompany these refugee ships to boost our own public relations.

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition
January 1st, 2106 dawned across the Coastal Coalition's capital with overcast skies but thankfully an absence of actual rain. The relief from the past week's near constant downpours was felt across the city and many citizens made the trek to the capital building to hear the president's annual address in person.

President Alejándro
"A warm welcome to all citizens of the Coastal Coalition, to any other nation's citizens who may be tuning in, and especially to our new citizens in the former territories of the Dominican Republic. It is my pleasure to be able to speak to you all today on this fine day."

"To address the first and rather obvious matter, yes, the Coalition has expanded for the first time since it's founding. We have, in the past, stood firm in our assurance that we do not require additional territory, and we continue to hold to that conviction today. It is not for territory that we reached out to the city states of this new area, but rather an effort to improve their quality of life. We of the Coalition have flourished for several years now, and it would be rather unfair of us to hoard such good fortune to ourselves while our neighbors to the east were struggling."

"We will be keeping an eye out for other areas we can aid but the Coalition stands firm in its convictions to never utilize military force to conquer another territory. Our expansion to the east was fully supported by the people living there, our new citizens, and conducted without a shot being fired. I encourage all citizens of the Coalition to learn about the history of our new members, as I am certain there is a great deal we can learn from them."

"The remainder of our focus in the last year has been firmly set on Project Phoebus and I am pleased to inform you all that we are on, and even slightly ahead, of schedule. By this time next year the Coalition should have put people on the moon once again. It has been a long road getting here, though perhaps not as long as some of us had feared, and there is still much more to do but I am pleased to be able to tell you we are on track."

"Thank you all for your hard work and dedication in 2105. 2106 promises to be the year that our work bears fruit. I hope you are all looking forward to it as much as I am."

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
We thank you for your willingness to continue working diplomatically even if you feel you are being slandered. We would like to assure you that the Coalition bears no ill will towards your people as a result of your expansion.

As for your proposal, I believe we can work together for a great purpose in 2106 that will aid both of us. A message will be sent out to all nations that should offer an opportunity for your scientists and researchers to learn from our people and for your economy to benefit our work. I look forward to our peoples being able to work together in harmony to achieve more than we could individually.

(OOC: I am highly amused you chose this turn to make that request, as you could literally not have picked a better time :P. See the 'to all nations' message below)
The Coastal Coalition intends to embark upon the final stages of Project Phoebus this year, our return trip to the moon. For too long we have focused solely as a species upon survival as a necessity. It's time we had the chance to move forwards.

Because we feel that this effort is to be undertaken on behalf of all of humanity we are inviting any nation that would like to participate in the effort to join us. We can accomplish more together than separately. We ask only that you send a message ahead so that we can determine how we can best work together to achieve our goal.

To any nation that feels they cannot join this year, we understand. We will not hold it against anyone if they feel their concerns here are too pressing to aid and we will still consider you with us on the mission in spirit. Please do not feel like we are placing any pressure on you to participate simply because of our enthusiasm. Thank you all.

(OOC: I will be running a joint project this year. Anyone who wants to can contribute economy or research points to the moon landing project. Research points out will be split proportionally based on contribution, but will be receiving a bonus for cooperation as per Arcane's posts on the 2nd page of the OOC. All output will be Research points. Please message me if you wish to participate with a rough idea of what you plan to contribute as I need to ensure the project hits the goal number of points for the moon landing.
Greetings. We hope that 2106 has dawned for your people with good news and great cheer. We have a proposal that we hope will be of interest to you. As we have mentioned in our message to all nations we are planning to launch a project to return to the moon. We are inviting any nation that wishes to to contribute, but we are not so naive as to assume that all will be interested for selfless reasons.

As such, we would like to inquire as to whether it would be possible to hire some support in the region of espionage protection for this project, to avoid any attempts that may be made to sabotage it. Our people still struggle in this area and we recognize it as a weakness of our nation, and a strength of yours. We hope that it will not be required, but better safe than sorry. Please let me know if you would find this to be agreeable. Thank you.

(OOC: I would like to exchange Economy to you for Espionage to be spent defending project Phoebus. My ideal offer would be my 8 Economy dedicated to you next year (2107) in exchange for 6 of your Espionage spend defending Project Phoebus this year. I am willing to negotiate if that does not meet your requirements. If you would be interested please let me know what you believe would be a fair deal and we can go from there.

[Mabn]

FSS


We are only surprised that you ever considered the Patriots a legitimate government.



We can contribute 8 research to the moon return project

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to Phoenix Compact

With the Mediterranean Alliance's overtures to the Patriots, we deemed it prudent to have a naval outpost in the region so as to be able to contest the northern seas in case of any problems.

Novaya Russia to Coastal Coalition

We have, in fact, embarked on a project to rebuild the Baikonur Cosmodrome. We'll provide 3 Research to assist in your project, with the hope that the expertise gained will assist in rebuilding the global orbital infrastructure of the pre-Winter era.

Novaya Russia to Asian Prosperity Sphere

Now that we've reached a diplomatic solution to our western borders, we would like to make an overture to the other key region of the globe we border. Your economic cooperation has been notably effective despite the mutual tensions some of you had early on, and as our own similar projects with the Achaeminids have been so effective, we would like to ask whether you would allow us to join under bi- or multilateral treaties.

[Thelonius]

Solarius Cult

Coastal Coalition [3]

We believe that humanity should spread in the solar system and thus pledge [RES 5] to the Phobius project.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

To Coastal Coalition (DESP 3)

We can't provide that much, the Russians damaged our information networks a bit, and we are still rebuilding. We can offer [5 ESP] this turn, and we can do this for [6 ECON] next year. We would help in the project itself, but until we are rebuilt we are unable to dedicate any [ECON or RES]

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition
Messages Sent (Morale 3)
Thank you for your support.
Thank you for your support, and please, don't hesitate to ask if we can be of aid to you in your plans to rebuild your orbital infrastructure. We are well aware that we do not have a monopoly on intelligent people so we would be happy to cooperate on any orbital plans you may have in the future should you desire aid.
Thank you for your support.
We accept and thank you for being willing to help out even as you are working to rebuild your own infrastructure. We shall rely on your [5 Espionage] to defend the Phoebus Project this year (2106) and will pledge [6 Economy] to your purposes next year (2107). Thank you.

[ArcaneStomper]

Asian Prosperity Sphere [PM]
Japan: Contributions are dependent on the member, and not formally mandated. So it would not be possible to bring yours in line with those of us who have contributed since the beginning on any sort of percentage basis. Perhaps if the Achaemenid Empire was willing to contribute [5 econ] to a global fund for improving regional infrastructure.

Southern Cross: We understand your position, and acknowledge that you are unlikely to draw aggression. The mere possibility of it however is troubling. However if you could obtain non aggression pacts with the nations of Europe it would settle our doubts.

(OOC: I don't remember exactly. Are you in a mutual defensive pact with Russia?)

Mediterranean Alliance to Phoenix Compact
Their acts of aggression have so far been limited to the warlords of the wastes rather than any nation whose sovereignty was recognized by the world. We cannot condemn them for what we ourselves have done.

If you had claimed those territories yourself it would be different, but you have not. And so we do not recognize their actions as aggression against you.

The Second Nations to the Phoenix Compact
We thank you for your pledge, and hope that you will never need to act upon it. But you are free to announce it publicly if you wish.

The Second Nations to the Patriots
What exactly are you proposing? We do not share a coastline so it seems somewhat difficult for your navy to take action in the Pacific. Nor are there many refugees there in any case.

The Asian Prosperity Sphere to Novaya Russia
We would welcome increased trade with most nations, but yours has demonstrated a distinct willingness to use that trade for political ends. Any trade pact would by necessity need to include strict clauses and penalties to prevent the same effects from reaching our markets and people.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots
Morale 7


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear President Alejandro
We are willing to contribute [insert in character terms for 3 Economy and 4 Morale] and whatever military support you may wish for.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


Dear Elder Flying Fox,
We would be able to get ships through the Northwestern Passages during summertime and with our allies in the East we will be able to negotiate sea passages to make pick-ups from Europe as well.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots

[Exthalion]

Asian Prosperity Sphere [PM]
Japan: A [5 econ] buy in would be acceptable. (OOC, would this be put into the join program and pay out some to me or would the gain from this just be for them?)

Order: What nations would you require we form such pacts with? (OOC, I have a non-agression pact with Russia and a mutual defense pact with them against rome. I also have a non agression pact with the hospitilars)

[ArcaneStomper]

The Second Nations to the Patriots
Then we would welcome any refugees that you send us.

Asian Prosperity Sphere [PM]
(OOC: It would actually go into a separate fund to make the APS its own entity.)

Order: Rome, Egypt, the Hospitallers, and Russia.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to Asian Prosperity Sphere

Well, tell us what sort of safeguards you would require, so that we can deliberate on them.

[ArcaneStomper]

Asian Prosperity Sphere to Novaya Russia
All merchants traveling into the Asian Prosperity Sphere must declare its intent ahead of time, and accept monitoring to ensure they do not attempt to subvert the unique culture, governments, or populace of the region.

(OOC: This will marginally decrease your returns on trade with the Asian Prosperity Sphere, and if you do try to perform an economic attack on them it will not work very well.)

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to Asian Prosperity Sphere

So long as the methods and definitions involved are properly legally defined in the treaty, and reciprocity is maintained, this should be acceptable.

((OOC: Well, as long as their gains are affected exactly the same as mine so that they don't gain any comparative advantage, no problem.))

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achaemenid Empire Morale 5

Asian Prosperity Sphere [PM]
OOC: What would it being its own thing actually mean? Are we creating a new faction to raise the investment multiplier?

Imperium Romanum
Haxamanis, the great king, the king of kings, the king of Persia, the king of lands, the son of Hystaspes, the grandson of Arsames, an Achaemenid speaks to the Latins, to the people of Italy called Roman.

Having no desire for war though prepared for it, and counting the days of my sons more highly than the numbers of those I have slain, let us establish peace between us. We shall agree that neither shall initiate violence or contest of arms. We have made agreement with the Russias that should you initiate war with them we shall do likewise. In this agreement, I resolve that I shall join them in no agreesive actions against you and you shall initiate no agreessive actions against me.

Is this agreeable to you?

Egypt
Will the lord of the two lands consent to an agreement of mutual accord whereby neither shall we cause war between us, not one or the other, and shall have peace in our time?

[ArcaneStomper]

Asian Prosperity Sphere to Novaya Russia
We of course wouldn't object to you taking the same precautions.

Asian Prosperity Sphere [PM]
(OOC: It would be a bit harder to attack as it is more diffuse. Also if it grows large enough it will absorb the member nations. )

Imperium Romanum to the Neo-Achaemenid Empire
We do not seek you as enemy. So we agree to your proposal.

Egypt to the Neo-Achaemenid Empire
Though the Great Pharaoh sees the King of Kings as a brother all must remember that brothers quarrel at times. Your claim on the territory of the Sinai has troubled the Great Pharaoh. Should you gift it to the river kingdom he would clasp your hand in friendship. But until such a day comes he reserves his wisdom and judgement on the matter.

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achaemenid Empire Morale 5

Asian Prosperity Sphere [PM]
OOC:If I invest in it heavily, would that build my influence with it and/or the member countries?

Egypt
Would the Great Pharaoh be willing to permit the flow of commerce through the canal of Suez and to not establish a burdensome toll on traffic? Having acquired the territory the King of Lands had desired to renew trade between the seas.

OOC: What would this entail besides changing the color on the next map update? And what would the penalty for breaking it be?

ArcaneStomper[GM PM]
Can economies run at a deficit?

[ArcaneStomper]

Asian Prosperity Sphere [PM]
(OOC: Yes, that would build your influence.)

Egypt to the Neo-Achamenid Empire
The Great Pharaoh would be willing to allow the ships your empire free passage so long as the sovereignty of the Great Pharoah over these lands was unquestioned.

(OOC: Not much besides a map update. You could give them a stat point to seal the deal and make them friendlier as well. But you don't have to. There wouldn't be anything to break really. If you wanted it back once you gave it to them you would have to invade.)

Neo-Achaemenid Empire [GM]
Hmm, I hadn't really thought of that. I think a certain level of deficit is inherent in the econ stat since that's just your abstracted level of economic development. But I suppose it would be possible to spend more than you had. You would however start losing econ as your people's trust in the government eroded.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to Asian Prosperity Sphere

It is agreed, then. Present us with the treaties, and we shall go over them and sign as required.

[Exthalion]

ArcaneStomper [GM PM]
Assuming I agree to the egypt thing in PM, can I do the buy in to the prosperity sphere in EoT? Also, do they have any joint projects I can invest in for the bonus?

[ArcaneStomper]

Asian Prosperity Sphere to Novaya Russia
The members of the sphere forward several treaties for a limited and closely watched opening of borders.

Exthalion [GM]
Yes, you can do the buy in your EoT. I mean that's pretty much when you have to do it since points don't get used in the IC.

The Asian Prosperity Sphere has an annual joint economic project for all members. That's pretty much the whole purpose of the Sphere.

[ArcaneStomper]

Turn 7

January 1st, 2107

To the Moon!
The whole world temporarily puts aside its hostilities and watches with bated breath as the first manned mission to leave Earth's orbit in over half a century lifts off from the Coastal Confederation. Led by a gallant Confederation captain the international team consists of a stoic Russian cosmonaut, a charismatic Solarius pilot, a grim Patriot engineer, and a determined Federation scientist.

Despite the setbacks that the world has seen many advances have been made since the last time anyone went to the moon. And thus despite the fact that the crew's spacecraft is considerably larger than the Apollo modules it reaches lunar orbit in only two days.

The entire crew lands and sets up a small habitat from which the conduct experiments and historic activities over the course of the week. Then the depart in a much smaller ascent vehicle and make the journey home. Touchdown occurs in the gulf of Mexico, and there is much fanfare as the crew enters quarantine.

Left behind on the moon is the expeditions habitat not out of the waste, but deliberately as a starting point for further expeditions and an eventual planned lunar base.

North America
Other than the lunar expedition which makes every headline the Americas are relatively quiet. Tensions between the Patriots and Phoenix Compact continue to rise, but do not reach hostilities as the Patriots refrain from further expansion. Instead they apply their military to aiding refugees and supplying aid around the world.

The continent is not left untouched though. As if to fill the gap left by the Patriots both the Solarius Foundation and Novaya Russia move into North America. Solarius diplomatically approaches the California territories and persuades them to join the growing movement, while the more militaristic Russians simply move outward in force from their bases on the Canadian east coast.

Europe
Rioting and protests break out across France as the people of France object to their governments pacts with the Russians who they see as war mongers only likely to drag them into a new world war. The political situation reaches a boiling point and the French government is forced to shuffle its political leadership for a more neutral party.

The new government immediately cancels its defensive pacts and establishes a new French isolationist policy.

Asia
The Asian Prosperity Sphere has completed their work on the mid ocean current generator station. As it comes online cheap energy immediately flows into the region and revitalizes old and long defunct factories and cities.

The members of the Sphere congratulate one another and immediately begin planning their next project. Details are still vague, but it promises to be just as large a project.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition
November 18th, 2106
Aristarchus crater landing site, Luna
As the Phoebus 1 lander descended towards the lunar surface people across the Coastal Coalition, and perhaps across the world, held their breaths. The video and audio of the landing, though of relatively poor quality compared to the standard global broadcasts, was remarkable in that it was being broadcast as soon as it was received across the Coalition's satellite broadcast networks, with nothing censored or held back.

As the lander came to a halt on the surface and the first astronaut, the Coalition's captain, emerged onto the moon's surface, many expected a new 'one small step' speech. They were to be disappointed, as the crew emerged one after another with little in the way of fanfare, spreading out to begin setting up the landing site for the scientific studies that would be required.

However, as the Coalition and Solarius's cult (chosen, it would later be learned, in a fierce battle of rock paper scissors aboard the transit module in flight to the moon) broke away from the others and moved a sufficient distance from the lander with a small pod and one of the portable cameras, it became obvious that something was about to happen.

The Coalition captain, a Florida native who had grown up dreaming of the stars and had been chosen on the basis of her test scores during the initial phases of the Phoebus project far surpassing the others, unfurled the flagpole and flag of the mission. Reflecting its international crew, and unifying theme, the flag planted on the moon was not that of the Coastal Coalition, nor any combination of the flags of the nations involved, but rather a simple flag of the people of Earth, united in their effort to reach the moon. With the flag planted, and the prepared speech given, the crew returned to the landing area to begin their week of scientific discoveries and investigation on the lunar surface.

January 1st, 2107
Cape Canaveral Capital Building, Coastal Coalition
The 1st dawned across the Coastal Coalition's capital with clear skies and an almost infectious sense of optimism.

President Alejándro
"Greetings and welcome all to the annual address. I will be quite brief, as nearly all the information I would typically cover in this address has been spoken of a great deal in the past weeks. But, in case you had managed to miss it, the Coalition has successfully lead an expedition to return to the moon. We could not have accomplished as much as we had accomplished without the aid of our neighbors across the world who joined in this project, and I would like to personally extend my thanks to all the nations who joined us in this effort."

"The only other news I have to cover is the improvements that have been begun within the former territory of the Dominican Republic. We are working hard to bring the advanced technologies that many of us in the other areas of the Coalition have begun to take for granted, like the H-Fuel we were able to develop with our allies in the Free Fleet, to these territories, and will continue to do so in the years to come."

"Well that's really all I have to cover. Thank you all for your work towards our lunar project, it could not have been a success without the help of many nations and the work of everyone involved, in any manner, within the Coalition. Thank you all for your time."

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
We hope that your scientists and technicians were able to learn a great deal from the lunar project and your participation was worthwhile to your people. If you would like any aid in your continued efforts to develop your own space program please don't hesitate to contact us, I'm certain we could help one another. Thank you.
We hope that your people gained a great deal from the lunar project, and we thank you for your participation. If you would still like to discuss a plan for exchanging some of the Patriots grand economic power for aid in your expansion of your public school system we would be happy to aid you.
We thank you for your aid in the lunar project. As agreed we will be contributing [6 Economy] to your rebuilding efforts this year. If you have any suggestions for what could be done to investigate the assassination during the project we would love some assistance in this area, as covert operations are not something our people are skilled at.
We thank you for your contributions to the lunar project and would like to formally extend our apologies for the unfortunate casualty of one of your scientists during the project. We had brought in outside help specifically to try and prevent something like this, but apparently it wasn't quite enough. We were able to capture the agent, but were not able to determine who hired them at this time. Rest assured that we will do everything in our power to determine who hired the assassin. We will keep you informed every step of the way during our investigation and be as transparent as possible in this matter. Thank you.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia to Coastal Coalition

Well, with Baikonur Cosmodrome now operational, we are planning on beginning the reconstruction of a global satellite network. If you wish to assist in such, we would welcome any aid your scientists and engineers can provide.

Novaya Russia to France

If you had concerns about our conduct, we would have preferred you at least attempt some sort of discussion, or even inform us of them, before cutting ties.

Novaya Russia to Asian Prosperity Sphere

Would you be interested in working with us and the newly formed Republic of Thailand to construct the Kra Canal and help revitalize shipping industry around the world? Our agreements with various minor states regarding naval bases in their territory have already created a support network for such that has almost global reach, one that we will hopefully be able to extend soon.

[Mabn]

Federation of Surviving States


We do not blame you for the assassination. As tragic as it was, we knew the risks of participating in an international project with the current state of world affairs. We do of course blame the assassin's employer and appreciate your efforts to track them down.

[ArcaneStomper]

France to Novaya Russia
We simply find your continuous and unchecked military expansion at odds with our diplomatic goals. You are setting yourself at odds with the local powers in almost every region of the world, and we feel it will almost inevitably lead to a war. Which we wish no part of.

Asian Prosperity Sphere to Novaya Russia
We will consider it. However if the canal is to become a main trade route we would prefer it be overseen by a neutral party.

[smasher0404]

The Patriots

Mr. President took to the stage, looking very haggard and tired, but with a bright grin on his face. The people of the Patriots greeted him with a loud round of applause.
"We are proud to announce that we have joined the coalition of Nations that have entered the grand arena of space. In addition we have escorted refugees across the world to the Second Nations in order for them to be provided for. Overall, this year we plan to expand our education system in order to provide everyone in our territory an equal opportunity for success. We also plan to continue our plan of community outreach, allowing soldiers to help those in need within our borders. While there are those who believe that we are warmongering monsters, the Patriots are here to help bring order in this lawless world, and provide for the continued existence of the American people. "

Morale 7


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear President Alejandro,
We are prepared to offer the same contribution we've made to the space project (OOC: 3 Econ and 3 Morale invested in developing whatever you want as part of our turn) in exchange for some of your professors to give guest lectures in our universities. (OOC: a mixture of Research and Morale totaling 6 towards developing Research for us) to our public education system. If you desire it, at any point you may trade in our economic investment into your nation for the usage of our military in equivalent amounts, unless the Patriots are in a state of war, or the Coastal Coalition wishes to use our military against any of the Patriots' allies. (OOC: Right to forfeit the use of Economic or Morale points in favor of the use of Military points at a 1:1 ratio)

Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots


From the Office of Mr. President
Dear Prime Minister,
We know of your fears of expansion and warfare. If you truly fear Roman expansion, would it not suit your needs to consider trying to join the Mediterranean Alliance? Doing so would put you under Roman protection (as well as our own significant military might) as well as protect you from the member states. I'm sure the other members of the Alliance would not mind your joining, and it would shift the balance of powers significantly enough that Russia would not be able to continue its own warmongering path. Geographically, this would also place mainland Europe firmly in the Alliance's grasp, providing a secure border of safety for France.

I know that you view us as war-mongering, but there is safety in numbers, and overwhelming force may cow Russia from retaliating. If you choose to pursue my plan and join the Alliance, we are willing to speak on your behalf.
Sincerely,
Mr. President
President of the Patriots

[Exthalion]

Neo-Achamenid Empire to Asian Prosperity Sphere Morale 5
Should we begin discussion of the new project, more privately, or is it something we do not mind being known by those who have made the investment in being able to do so?

Neo-Achamenid Empire to China Morale 5
If there are hard feelings about our recent expansion, we are willing to discuss it with the aim of smoothing all difficulties.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

To Coastal Coalition (DESP 3)

Finding the culprit may be difficult with all the different nations involved and the bad blood between some of them. If you do wish to investigate further we are willing to help, free of cost, but it may cause more international tension.

The best way to continue is assume the individual was targeted for a reason, so we would need to delve into his background, who he was contacting and if there anyone that would want him dead. If nothing pans out there we then look into the work he was doing and who may have been targeting that area of research. After that we would be looking for any persons in the area that didn't belong or look like a hitman.

[ArcaneStomper]

France to Patriots
It would however encourage Rome and your own nation to become aggressors in turn. So we thank you for the invitation, but must decline.

Asian Prosperity Sphere to the Neo-Acahemnid Empire
We have nothing overly secure to discuss at the moment. Though if you have a project to discuss we would of course be happy to hear it.

China to the Neo-Achamenid Empire
We would request that your release said territory to their own sovereignty. The penchant of modern nations to absorb and annex as much territory as possible will only lead the world down the path of war.

After all if it becomes a habit to continually expand what will happen when there are no more wild lands to expand into.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 3)
We are more than happy to accept your offer. We will provide [6 Research] to you towards developing your public school system in exchange for [3 Economy + 3 Morale] towards expanding the Coalition's Economy. We can learn a great deal from one another and I look forward to future cooperation. Thank you.
If you can continue investigating who the assassin was and who sent them we would be more than willing to contribute whatever support is required in the future.
(OOC: I'm sending in my report and not setting anything aside for now, but if you want me to contribute some economy or research into who sent the assassin I would be happy to next turn. Let me know. Thanks.)

[Murska]

Novaya Russia - France

Fair enough. But it would have been polite to communicate your concerns before terminating our alliance.

Novaya Russia - Asian Prosperity Sphere

This is most likely acceptable assuming you contribute to the construction. We would like a specification on what neutrality means, however. We specifically formed the Republic of Thailand foreseeing a need for stable governance in the area, and while they currently obviously have strong ties to ourselves, we hope they can soon stand on their own feet. Meanwhile, we are of course going to hold on to naval resupply stations in the region - how else would any trade even be able to function, let alone be protected?

Novaya Russia - The Free Fleet

I would like to talk with you privately regarding the re-enabling of global shipping and trade.

[ArcaneStomper]

France to Novaya Russia
We simply feel that the political aims of our two nations no longer coincide..

Asian Prosperity Sphere
As it stands Thailand is obviously a puppet state dependent on you. If you were to free it we would require independent verification of its lack of ties to another power whether it be you, us, or anyone else.

As for naval refueling stations. They are not required for trade. Otherwise trade would not be possible now, much less in the quantities that would make a canal viable. Those bases would be necessary to protect trade from pirates. But there are no major pirate presences in this region. And our own navies are more than capable of dealing with any minor incidents that might arise.

The Free Fleet to Novaya Russia
We are willing to listen.

[Murska]

Asian Prosperity Sphere

Lack of ties is a bit harsh. We would expect to remain close allies with Thailand in the future and cooperating on many aspects of policy even as we hope to restore fair elections in the country and restore a defense force capable of upholding their territorial sovereignty.

As for trade, I am speaking in global terms. Restoring the connected world we used to have. As it is, many regions of the world do not have a centralized state logistically capable of overseas trade, many areas lack even the technological capacity - these regions need port cities built and protected by us. Most places still lack infrastructure and logistical support, railways of the correct gauge, trucks and roboticized docks meant to work on standardized containers. And many areas of the world are simply unsafe - I'm sure you recognize that the reason there is rather little piracy at the moment is the low volume of trade for them to prey on. Our navies can protect ships near our waters, yes, but not necessarily on the other side of the globe. At least without ports to base in.

And if we intend to truly be the heralds of the age of reconstruction, we will need to show presence along with our trade fleets.


Novaya Russia - The Free Fleet [PM]

It is one of your main goals ((OOC: In the faction writeup at least)) to revitalize global trade by sea. We've begun work on that very project - securing naval stations from lawless areas around the world and preparing construction works to facilitate truly global infrastructure networks. Perhaps you would be willing to assist in such in some manner?

[ArcaneStomper]

Asian Prosperity Sphere to Novaya Russia
Normal relations are fine, even being good allies. By ties we mean the puppet strings which you currently hold over them and similar nations around the globe. It is merely another form of Imperialism which we take great historic affront to. You say you want them to establish fair elections, but actions speak louder than words. When third party verified elections actually proceed, then we will consider them independent.

(Re: Trade - Actually the global economy is in pretty good shape. Economy is the highest total stat by quite a large margin. So there is quite a lot of trade and most countries are fairly modernized. It's true that it isn't evenly spread around the globe, but that just means the trade routes are already well established.

How much of that is ocean based is not something I specifically keep track of, but factions like the Free Fleet, Coastal Confederation, and Rime Conglomerate fluff their economy as mostly ships and traders. So I've been working off the assumption that trade be sea is pretty high.

Which isn't to say that they wouldn't be in favor of more of it, especially more of it going through their ports.

And while we're on the subject of global stats the second highest total is military. And most people have been putting their military specifically into keeping order in their local regions so there isn't much pirate or warlord activity except in the region which are specifically marked as independent.

Then world opinion is the third highest so people like each other for the most part except for the highly publicized local conflicts. Then morale and finally espionage and research.

I'll try and write an overview of the current state of the world to go with the next turn's post.)

The Free Fleet to Novaya Russia [PM]
That is a project we have been working on for years, and we have had quite a bit of success. As such we feel that the question is more how you can assist our efforts, than the other way around.

[ArcaneStomper]

Turn 8
January 1st, 2108

African War Drums
The three major powers on the African continent have all expanded into the nonaligned central regions in efforts to expand their power bases as much as possible before the inevitable clash. And that clash seems imminent.

The African Union has accused South Africa of being a corrupt oligarchy that ignores the will of the people, and the Kingdom of Egypt of being so caught up in pseudo historical romanticism as to be squandering its peoples livelihoods. The Egyptian ambassadors meanwhile have called for both other countries to bow to the inevitable will and glory of the Great and Powerful Pharaoh. For its part South Africa has agreed with the African Union about Egypt, but also called out the African Union as a bloated bureaucracy that only brings waste and inefficiency.

Asian Prosperity Sphere
In the east the combined efforts of the members of the Asian Prosperity Sphere have solidified the trade organization into something more substantial. It has unified the remaining non aligned warlords and city states of the region into a new federation, which although somewhat disjointed promises to bring peace and prosperity to all.

Gibraltar Tides
The Solarius Cult has constructed a tidal generator in the straits of Gibraltar. Smaller than that constructed by the APS in the Pacific it nonetheless provides a great deal of power to Morocco and Iberia.

Dwindling Wilds
In North America Novaya Russia has managed to convince the people of Quebec to join the Russian bloc as one of its many smaller allies. And in the Pacific the Second Nations have done the same thing in the former states of Washington and Oregon.

All told these numerous overtures by the Great Powers have shrunk the wild lands of the world down to just a few places in South and Central , and experts predict that those will soon be gone as well. Absorbed into one or another of the more expansionist nations.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition
The dawn of January 1st, 2107 came slowly as the overcast skies dimmed the light across much of the Coastal Coalition's territory. In the capital the thick clouds gave the morning an almost oppressive feel, though it did not seem to put a damper on the citizen's moods as many of them made their way to the capital building for the annual address and most of the rest waited around their home televisions or radios.

President Alejándro
"Happy New Year citizens of the Coastal Coalition. I am pleased to be able to speak to you all on this fine, if rather overcast, day. I'm afraid the annual address this year will be a bit less dramatic than the past years, but I would still like to speak with you all regarding a few improvements we have made since last year's address."

"For the past year we have turned our sights inward, taking the knowledge we gained making our trip to the moon and turning it into improved lives for all members of the Coalition. For years we sacrifices and worked together towards a better tomorrow, and make no mistake, we still need that, but it is time we all reaped the rewards of our hard work. All of the quality of life improvements that have been developed this last year, these are not some gift, but the result of the hard work and dedication we all have all put towards advancing our place in the cosmos."

"I am also pleased to report that our exchange work with the Patriots was quite successful, our researchers were able to aid their scientists in advancing their technology base and their manufacturing capabilities were a key instrument in the quick development and distribution of many of the items that our people are now enjoying today. We hope that, going forwards, such open trade agreements can become the norm around the world, as we all realize that we are one people, united together, rather than divided by borders."

"We have some exciting plans in the works to utilize the knowledge we gained on the Project Phoebus for a return trip and perhaps even long-term base setup on the moon but I'm afraid those plans are still in the preliminary stages. Make no mistake though, the Coalition will continue working to improve humanity's space capabilities until the day our children can leave this cradle behind and step out into the stars."

"Thank you all greatly for your time and may 2108 be yet another great year for the Coalition and all the people of Earth."

Messages Sent (Morale 7)
We have discovered evidence that the assassin may have come from Novaya Russia. Does your investigation agree? How would you rate the difficulty of confirming whether Russia was responsible? We are willing to contribute quite a bit to the effort but your people are the experts here so if you believe it is too risky to continue investigating into Russia itself we would be willing to back off and pass this information long to the Federation. Thanks.

[Thelonius]

Solarius Cult

A press conference is organized by the cult. High Priestess Iskandria speaks: "There have been much expansion across the world. We wish to stress, that any military operations conducted in the South America without our awareness would be considered as a diplomatic incident by Solarius Cult. It is our desire to protect the people against aggressive colonization and conquest. The Solarius Cult welcomes anybody coming with open hearts and economic opportunities - and we are prepared to cooperate with other nations to restore peace and prosperity of our continent."

[Murska]

Novaya Russia

With the last votes counted, the Democratic Development Party has won the first elections in the Philippines since the Winter. The new government pledges to continue forming strong diplomatic ties to the regional powers while developing the damaged infrastructure of the region with the help of Russian foreign aid programs. While most observers consider the elections biased due to the lack of coherent opposition, there have been no reported incidents of vote fraud or other manipulation.

Meanwhile, the construction of the Kra Canal has finally finished. The flagship project of the transitional government of the Republic of Thailand has brought jobs and economic development to the whole region, and with the marked increase in global shipping as of late, the hope is that the port cities in Thailand will benefit for years to come. Free elections are slated for six months, with expected landslide victory for the National Coalition party currently responsible for the administration.

The Cross-Atlantic Friendship Treaty between the Republic of Ireland and the newly formed Canadian Free Republic (République Canadienne) has been signed in bilateral negotiations, promising further development of trade links and political cooperation across the ocean. The signing of the treaty was overshadowed somewhat by a large-scale Russian naval exercise in the Northern Atlantic, but the Novaya Russian President has confirmed it as a long-scheduled ordinary training exercise for the newly enlargened Navy to practice interdiction and amphibious landing operations. International observers note the deployment of new, sophisticated weapon and communications systems and the coordinated use of large-scale heliborne operations in support of the Marines. Long range ballistic missiles are also tested from Russian bases in Ireland. A similar exercise also took place near the newly constructed Novaya Russian naval port in Hawaii using the assets of a much smaller-scale Pacific Fleet, and further emphasizing the role of air power in long-range interdiction and air superiority duties.

The recent multitude of launches from the recently repaired Baikonur Cosmodrome herald Novaya Russia re-entering the space age with communications and geolocation satellites covering large parts of the globe. The coverage is yet spotty, but the leadership of NR promises that a full network will be finished in just a few years.

Novaya Russia to Phoenix Compact

Would you be willing to invest in the construction of the Grand Interoceanic Canal in Nicaragua? It would shorten the distance between your two coasts markedly.

Novaya Russia to Coastal Coalition

Our apologies for the incident in Jamaica and Hispaniola, we did not expect you to hold interest in the region after so many years, and it was our intention to secure a naval base for the outer defense of our planned Grand Interoceanic Canal in Nicaragua. We will of course not contest your claims now that you have made them. Speaking of which, would you be willing to invest in the project? It would allow you better access to the West Coast of Northern America and the Pacific, which can only be a boon for your economy.

[ArcaneStomper]

Phoenix Compact to Novaya Russia
We currently do not see how sending cargo ships south to Nicaragua, through a canal, and then back north to our Pacific ports would be economically viable compared to our current rail lines. Cargo ships may have greater capacity, but it triples the distance and increases the danger.

On the other hand the Panama canal already exists for moving ships.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia - Phoenix Compact

Maybe - maybe - it's cheaper to use rail for your internal production. Even there it's a toss-up, naval freight is just vastly cheaper and more efficient in every way. However, if you trade with Asia or Europe and want those goods transported to the opposite coast? The ship docking at a port and then unloading its entire cargo to be transported by train requires dozens of trains for just one ship. Trains are also over a hundred times more accident-prone and guzzle three times more fuel.

As for Panama, it is not only farther away but you also don't have any shares in its ownership, meaning you have to pay tolls for every one of your ships that passes their locks.

[HerbieRAI]

Illuminati

To Coastal Coalition (MOR 5)

Our investigation agrees, but going further would be dangerous. Undoubtably they are reading this message as well, and will begin hiding their tracks, or worse, setting traps for any of our investigators. We need to think of what we would do with a confirmation first. They would deny involvement, so I should ask what would we do after the confirmation? Just passing knowledge of the culprit to someone else may not be worth the possible life lost from probing further.

[ArcaneStomper]

Phoenix Compact to Novaya Russia
They may be more accident prone, and more expensive. But trains are also significantly less likely to be targets of hostile powers. Which is a very real concern in the current political climate.

It is almost certain that the Patriots will attempt to blockade our Gulf ports when fighting breaks out. At which point the canal would be of little use to us.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia - Phoenix Compact

Ah, yes. In the short term such could be a concern. We've found it very unfortunate that you haven't pursued our offer of cooperation in that regard - Russia does have one of the foremost navies in the world, after all.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Phoenix Compact to Novaya Russia
We do not want to get involved in a possible European conflict.

African Dissolution
Talks between South Africa, the African Union, and the Kingdom of Egypt have broken down as no side can reach an agreement as to the fate of the African continent. Forces are massing on the borders between all three powers and analysts believe that the only thing keeping outright warfare from breaking out are the alliances that would bring the rest of the world into the matter should war break out.

No power wants to be responsible for starting world war three when the global situation is only just starting to recover from the Fall. But at the same time none of the three powers are willing to back down.

[Binks]

The Coastal Coalition

Messages Sent (Morale 7)
Good day to you. We would like to setup a face-to-face conference with your leaders in order to discuss the possibilities of expanding the trade and improving relations between our people. We would be more than happy to host a representative from your people or we can send a representative of our own if you'd prefer to hold this discussion within your territory. Please let us know. Thank you.
I'm afraid that I haven't heard of the incident in question at this time. So thank you for the apology, but would it be possible for your to provide details regarding what happened?

As the Coalition has stated on many occasions our only interests lie within our borders, we make no claims to any territory outside of that held by the Coalition (the former state of Florida, the islands of the Keys, Bahamas, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic, and the waters in between those territories).

While we are pleased to see another nation working towards global unity and have no objection to your Grand Interoceanic Canal, I'm afraid we won't be able to invest in it. We shall wish you the best of luck in your efforts and re-iterate that the Coalition does not wish to block your efforts in any way but we don't have the available resources in the years ahead to invest in this with the other projects we have planned at this time.

Thank you for your time.

[Murska]

Novaya Russia - Coastal Coalition

Our naval assets moved into several regions in our projected trading umbrella, including Nicaragua, Hawaii and Jamaica, to provide secure zones for naval bases and airports as well as construction workers. In the latter case, however, we were informed that the area was under your protection. Unfortunately with still spotty global communications our maps had been outdated and showed that region as uncontested at the time.