Oslograde, December 31st, 1835

Twenty years ago Oslad, then a mere fledgling state still under the reign of Ottovan V, raised the military banner of the Royal Oslad armed forces over Valish and ended the long hated Ville state that had torn the Glavidian faith, and the north of the Old World asunder. Since those dark days the Old World has seen twenty years of peace, progress, and modernization in all aspects of life. Now, at the end of the year of our Saint Eighteen Thirty-Five Prime Minister Bogdan Zhelyazko calls for the Boletarian Commonwealth and Ville to bring their ambassadors and call accords with the continuation of the Treaty of Valish signed those twenty years ago. As it stands, the treaty is as follows.

1) Ville shall never raise a force of more than ten thousand soldiers at any given time.

2) Ville shall never mobilize her troops to the border of the Federation or to the border of Thennia.

3) Twelve percent of all Ville income shall go to the Federation as reparations.

4) Prince Garish of Ville shall remain under house arrest in Ville until his departure from this world for crimes against humanity.

5) Ville shall never raise a naval force of more than Five Third Rate, Two Second Rate, and One First Rate ships at any given time.

6) The Oslad Federation holds military access through Ville for the next Fifty years.

The meeting to discuss the continuation of these six terms shall be held in Valish in January of 1836.

[x] Prime Minister Bogdan Zhelyazko of the Oslad Federation
[x] Ambassador Vihren Kolarov of the Boletarian Commonwealth
[x] Govenor-General Mecik Malenkov of the Ville Confederation

A winter that refused to wind down seemed only to intensify as the calendar year turned. Snow falls in particular were particular nasty in the Boletarian Commonwealth, the Kingdom of Vressia and the Oslad Federation. While less snow pockmarked the ground further south, even native Skeptonians in the north noticed relatively rare snowfalls this time of year. The winter of 1835 had been cold, and she hadn't yet received any word to dissipate. A blizzard barreled its way through the Principality of Sordogne into the Boletarian Commonwealth as the clock struck twelve, turning the New Year into quite a nightmare for the impoverished, while the nobility hunkered down in their high mansions.

So heavy was the snowfall that in many rural areas in the Oslad Federation, Vressia and Boletaria that contact with lost for weeks. Not until the heavy winds dissipated could any friends or family venture out into the snow covered roads to ensure their loved ones were okay. Those that attempted to make the journey rarely made it to their destination. The roads being frozen had turned the political situation for these three nations into a quagmire of excuses and irresponsibility. Garrisons went awry, leaving their frostbitten stations to seek warmth at local inns or simply cuddling up into blankets instead of standing guard. Crime however didn't rise, as the criminals themselves seemed held back by the prolific freeze that followed into the new year.





In the Northwest, the Treaty of Valish was put up for renewal by the Oslad Federation. The Ville Confederation, a fledgling client state propped up by Osladian coin, had only a paltry interest in the notion of the treaty. Govenor-General Mecik Malenkov offered his signature and had the document removed from his sight almost immediately. Without the support of Osladian firepower, the Ville would have most likely had him hung from a lamppost in the capital of Avillos. The Oslad ruled capriciously, but the Ville way of life was mostly unaltered and so they dealt with it however best they could.
[X] Govenor-General Mecik Malenkov of the Ville Confederation



Life in the rest of the Old World however went on as it normally would, bitter frosts but less snowfall changing little in the grand scheme of things. It wasn't until January 17th that the political peace of the Old World suddenly became threatened. The monarchs of the GREAT POWERS, on a bitter (or not so, in the case of Nehelenia, Dalatrum, Zellon and Skeptini) morning, the monarchs and leaders received this such letter:

To the Powers of the Old World,
For decades, the yoke of hegemony has held the people of Jarelia in the grip of oppression. For too long has the Murelian King maintained the alienation of our people, treating us not as citizens of the Kingdom, but as second rate citizens, no better than the workers of the Western Sides! For our labors, we have found pogroms and work camps, and in the Concordat of 1836, the King has called into act the immediate removal of our rights as citizens of the Kingdom, instead now considered employed workers of the state, without right and only plight! Jarelia has long garnered for independence, and if there has been a better time than the Day of the Faith of January the 17th of 1836 than it has long passed! We will raise our banners, if supported and supplied! Come now to our aid!

Signed,
Heinrich von Luck, Jarelian Nationalist Committee

The Jarelians numbered just over 4,500,000 and were an oppressed minority in the southeastern provinces of the Second Kingdom of Murelia. Heinrich von Luck, the leader of the JNC or Jarelian Nationalist Committee was a writer, lawyer and critic of the monarchy of Murelia, though was kept largely silenced by being under house arrest by the Blackcoats since his proclamation of Jarelian nationalism in 1832. How his letter reached the Great Powers was unknown, and it was likely that the monarchy was at least aware that he had sent the letter. The Murelians under Hans Ludick IV were an oppressive monarchistic regime, whose Blackcoats would find dissidents, abduct them from their homes and put them in front of a firing squad. As the largest exporter of gold in the Old World, few were willing to march against the very nation that supplied them with so much gold.


The Jarelians are pleading to the Great Powers for help. They seek independence from a nation that has not only oppressed them, but now revoked their existence as citizens. The Murelians see them simply as dissidents seeking to create anarchy and upset the established order. The Jarelians wish to rid the Murelian monarchy in the southern half of Murelia and establish a democratic republic, one of the first of it's kind.

GREAT POWERS OPTIONS:
-- The Jarelians are in our prayers (0 Action Points: The Jarelians claim to independence against the traditional powers is well deserved, but we simply cannot afford to send aid at this time.
-- We must aid the oppressed! (Choose 1-3 Action Points): We must send food, supplies and especially guns to ensure the Jarelian independence movement is successful. The Murelian King must not be allowed to oppress others.
-- We support the King (Choose 1-3 Action Points): The rightful king of the Second Kingdom of Murelia has Divine Right to rule and protect his people against those that would cause harm. The reactionaries must be put down and the revolution must be halted.

[GREAT POWERS SUBMIT MONTHLY ACTIONS and CRISIS OPTIONS to my PRIVATE MESSAGES. The 3 points you receive per month are the same for this crisis. So aiding the Crisis will also mean less actions to focus on yourself.

Whichever faction receives the most support after 3 Months will win the crisis.

(OOC NOTE: While this crisis is for the Great Powers, Regional Powers may chime in with their perspective as well, though their support would not be considered large enough to make a difference.)

Ostara, Nehalenian capital Januari 4th 1836

Treaty of friendship between Nehalenia and Thennia

1. Nehalenia guarantees the independence of Thennia. Any hostile move or invasion against the state of Thennia will give Nehalenia a casus belli against the aggressor. In case of war against Thennia, Nehalenian forces are allowed to cross the border into Thennia to support its defense.

2. Nehalenia and Thennia agree to unrestricted trade between the two countries.

Signed by:

[X] King George Therus III of Nehalenia
[] Monarch of Thennia

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Western Sides

In the summer of 1835 the Nehalenian first rate ship RNN Victory had run aground in shallow waters near the lands of the barbaric Amazonians. A mission was dispatched to pull the ship out but the ship was gone when the relief ships got to the scene. Investigation had shown that the ship was captured by the Amazonians. To lose a first rate ship to some underdeveloped barbaric nation is a serious blow to the nations prestige. The Western Sides Company board considers this an act of aggression against the Kingdom of Nehalenia by the Queendom of Amazonia. Therefor the board has send out a mission to the Queendom to recover the ship and settle the situation.

Admiral John Gortan currently sails with the following force towards the Queendom of Amazonia
* RNN Nehalenia, flag ship (First rate)
* RNN King George (Second rate)
* RNN Ostara, (Second rate)
* RNN King Phillip (Second rate)
* RNN Valhal (Third rate)
* RNN Yotan (Third rate)
* RNN Overload (Third rate)
* RNN Destroyer (Third rate)
* 5000 royal Nehalenian marines

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Ostara, Nehalenian capital, Januari 17th, JARELIAN INDEPENDENCE CRISIS

Official statement by King George Therus III of Nehalenia

His royal majesty deeply regrets the violence that has broken out in the kingdom of Murelia. Human lives are on the line and many are sufferering. Nehalenia urges both sides to resolve this matter with diplomacy rather than military force.

With anarchy raging on the Murelian coast Nehalenia is forced to dispatch a naval squadron to the Inner Sea in order to protect her trade intrests. The kingdom of Nehalenia will not tolerate that any party compromises her ships, docks and storehouses in Murelia.

Admiral Johnatan Orwell will take command of a squadron of 5 ships and patrol the coast of Murelia in order to protect Nehalenian shipping in the region.

King Alorik II.
Wrenclaw, Capital of Boletaria. The Imperial Palace.

Alorik Veliko, second of his name and king of Boletaria. Gazed through the paneled windows of the Imperial Palace, watching the torrent of snow raging beyond the glass across the capital city of Wrenclaw. A true Boletarian blizzard, general winter making himself known once more before marking the end of a year, and the dawn of a new one. The ships across the harbor of the Polak straight, the Commonwealth's only connection to the ocean, remained docked as snow blanketed the now stationary vessels, only to be awoken again when the blizzard and snows relented it's icy grip. Likewise, the Boletarian army had been demobilized with only the most essential and hardiest remaining at their stations across the border frontiers. There was something so pure during the harsh winter months, where only but the most important of problems ebed away, replaced instead with keeping warm and remaining.

Naturally, a man of his station had it easier. Nursing a warm cup of Nehalenian tea, a small strand of steam whisking up into the air, as he watched the now white city before him. Over the four years of his rule, King Alorik II has made some hypocritical, diplomatic moves on the grand stage, at-least when they are viewed side by side, nevertheless each has been made to the benefit of his own great nation. The first was selling cannons and muskets to the Grand Kingdom of Schulstein as they attempt reclaim lost land to the Duchy of Fulric in it's war for Independence. Whilst also looking to increase it's relations with the Kingdom of Vressia, after already being on friendly terms after aiding them with clothes, arms and supplies being supplied to them across the channel in their own war against Solvig. In the late days of December, envoys had been sent to either nation, requesting their presence at the Imperial Palace of Boletaria, to discuss diplomacy and the future. Not soon after, the King had agreed to send an ambassador to the Oslad Federation where talks of the Treaty of Valish would commence. As soon as the snow would relent, the Ambassador would be on his way. When it would however, no-one knew. However a signed parchment announcing that the Ambassador would be attending, managed to be sent before the full wrath of winter could commence.

[x] Ambassador Vihren Kolarov of the Boletarian Commonwealth

There was now this potentially international crisis in the Second Kingdom of Murelia. A revolutionary movement it's own king had failed to control. As the closest major power to the kingdom in peril, no doubt the world looked to the Commonwealth to act. And act it would.

The King's Summons

King Alorik II, blessed be him by the Saint. Beckons for the honorable Grand King Marwick Ludwig Donitz IV of the Grand Kingdom of Schulstein, and King Paul IX of the Kingdom of Vressia, to his Imperial Palace in Wrenclaw in order to discuss diplomacy, at the utmost of haste when travel and safety can be assured.

JARELIAN INDEPENDENCE CRISIS

Public statement by King Alorik II of Boletaria.

"To allow this revolutionary movement to remain would be a grave error, to support it even more so. The consequences of which will threaten to tear down society as we know it. Any nation which supports this movement oversees the destruction of their own governance. The Boletarian Commonwealth pledges it's support to the rightful King of Murelia appointed by Divine mandate, not by some unfounded ideals!"

Be damned with subtlety, the world would know where the Commonwealth would stand. And it would be with the righteous.

Jarelian Independence Crisis

Statement from King Herald Skaneg.
"I plead that the two conflicting sides stop their fighting and diplomatically figure their problem out instead of this needless bloodshed."

In order to protect Skeptoni trade interest a squadron of 5 first rates have been dispatched and will be under the command of Admiral Ethan Polly.
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Odinion, Capital of Skeptoni, The Keiser's Council Meeting.

Treaty of Alliance between the Duchy of Fulric and Skeptoni.

1. The Kingdom of Skeptoni guarantees the independence of Fulric. Any hostile move or invasion against the Duchy of Fulric will give The Kingdom of Skeptoni a reason to join the war against the aggressor. Should the Duchy of Fulric be at war and under attack The Kingdom of Skeptoni may cross the border into Fulric and aid their defense.

2. Unrestricted trade between the two nations by sea or land.

Signed By:

[X] King Herald Skaneg
[] Duke of Fulric

It had just three years prior that the Vatannian army march in towards Galvia to the north to quell a rebellion against ultraconservatives who perceived that Galvia would be set on the same path as that of its southern neighbor. Hastily arming themselves, they waged a war against the authorities of Galvia in hopes of taking a quick victory. However the Vatannian army was rapid in its mobilization. Within a month of Galvian civil war, the Vatannians were at their doorsteps. Within 5 months, the rebellion was put to an end. Once again the nation was divided between religious traditionalist and republican nationalist. At the heart of the division was the church. Ever since the pope fled the violence of civil war 40 years ago, he had refused to come back unless the Papal states were returned to the church and the church exclusively. Francisco Demagio, the Prime Minister of Vatannia, did not want the Pope as an enemy.

During the evening of Decemcer 24, 1835, the Pope was asked to return to Vatannia for negotiations with the Demagio, the Vatannian parliament and King Amanni Morcos. The situation was described by Demagio in his private journal as "possibly the greatest challenged faced yet by the fledgling nation". King Morcos became the mediator for both parties as the night dragged on. By the end of the night, Demagio and the parliament reluctantly agreed to give the city to Verone to the Pope and Pope Paul Antonny III agreed to have the city as the only autonomous region under the church. On Christmas morning the following day, celebrations were held as division between the church and Vatannia was proclaimed to have been bridged. However this could not be farther from the truth. The following year, a crisis would arise that would split the relationship between the Corthide church and the Vatannian nation.

By January of 1836, the ethnic Jarelians from the southeastern provinces of Second Kingdom of Murelia began an uprising against King Hans Ludick IV. Agents of king, known popularly as blackcoats, would abduct those they deemed dangerous and had them executed. Heinrich von Luck, leader of the Jarelian Nationalist Committee, pleaded to any to help them against the crown. This situation was quickly taken notice of by the hard line republican nationalist of Vatannia. Key of this people was Giuseppe Verde. Verde was a member of the parliament and the leader of the massively popular Vatannian Republican Party. He and his fellow party members were still upset at the constitutional monarchy implemented by Demagio and the more moderate democrats. Upon seeing the chance of a people able to establish republic without the need for a monarch to represent the nation. By January 17, 1836, the Vatannian Republican Party was able to convince the rest of the Vatannian parliament to support the struggle of the Jarelians. A free Jarelian people would be well accepted allies to the north. However there was no ports to access them by sea and they were well aware that Boletaria would halt the supply of arms coming from roads. It was decided upon then that the crates carrying arms and supplies would be disguised as Skeptonian trade goods. By late January, the first batch of ammunition was sent to the rebels.

Meanwhile, the Corthide church was active in its preaching that the rebels should lay down their arms lest they suffer eternal damnation. Very much apart of the old world, the Pope was afraid of the changes sweeping through the old world. In his private memoirs, Pope Paul Antonny III would frequently express his resentment of the reforms held across the continents. The Pope and the Corthide church would continue to support King Hans Ludick IV throughout the struggle, unaware of the Vatannian parliaments involvement in the war.

-Excerpt from Chapter two of the book "Early Vatannia and the Corthide Church",
by Marcolo Dione and Matthew Rosner.

Those peasants from the villages outside Bittle huddled in their houses, trying to keep fires going against the cold. Winter was roughest around here, where the tundra made farming difficult. The harvest was adequate, but many worried if it would last through spring. Hunger was always a concern. And yet, the mood wasn't sour in any home. Families brought out their best food, slaughtered their biggest animals, and gathered round with their families, or in the village tavern, to eat a warm, shared meal.

This day was the 17th of January, the Day of Faith. A day to remember the Saint in all his glory, and to practice His teachings of love, kindness, generosity, and goodwill towards others. While the poor had little to give but cheer, the Imperial Palace was alight.

Nobles from around the region had been invited for a grand ball, within the capitol's grand palace. Townsfolk watched the parade of nobility from their windows, in awe of their wealth, as they went about their own celebrations.

The young and the old all came in resplendent carriages throughout the morning and afternoon, being escorted to one of the spacious rooms within the palace. At night, the ballroom was filled with the cream of Sanguine society, decked in gowns of the finest cloths. Wrinkled elders and pudgy matrons danced onto the floor like children, while the young played games of nervous eroticism in subtle flirtations and signals within dances.

Before the festivities were to begin in earnest, Damian Amoury made his way into the ballroom, his presence announced by the trumpets of several guardsmen, a sound that echoed throughout the hall. Conversations halted, and everyone adopted a slight bow.

A decade ago, no-one thought Damian would inherit. He had two older brothers, strong, capable, charismatic, and adventurous. But it was those same qualities that got them killed.

The late emperor, Balthazar, was an absolutely intimidating man, standing at six foot six, and weighing two hundred pounds, mostly of muscle. He was cold, calculating, and never idle. He carried himself like a bear, shaking the ground with each footstep, and booming curt orders in a voice like low thunder.

But if Balthazar was a bear, then Damian was a wolf. The young man carried himself with a sort of effeminate swagger, shoulders and hips swaying slightly as he walked, eyeing everyone with a leery, hungry gaze. He dressed in the finest clothes, and groomed himself very well. His pale skin was smooth and clear, and his deep black hair was set perfectly.

He descended the steps, and paused for a moment, turning from side to side of the crowd in silence, as if appraising them.

At last, he spoke,

"Thank you all for coming. . ."





Sovereigns of the old world,

Nationhood and the divine power of soverigns are not ideas to be taken lightly. Those appointed by divine right to rule a land have been given a burden equal to any power gained: the burden of responsibility for a whole peoples. And there is no greater burden on this earth than being tasked with the well-being and prosperity of a nation.

Yet there are many who do not understand the great effort that goes into the preserving and keeping a nation. They believe that a shared culture and language are all that are needed. It never occurs to them that effective governance, economic sustainability, effective foreign diplomacy and, beyond all else, the mandate of the divine, are necessary to the health of a nation.

Culture is but one aspect of nationhood. It is far and away not the only one, and it is arrogant to presume on its basis alone the need to rend a nation asunder, to defy what has for centuries kept nations united and prosperous, and bring on chaos and violence.

We urge the sovereigns of the Old World to oppose the movement of the Jarelians, in the name of peace, prosperity, and the divine right of sovereigns to rule.

- From the desk of his Imperial Majesty,

Emperor Damian Gregory Amoury

---

King Rolfe sat quietly at the end of the table, the senators had just begun gathering inside the room. First entered Senator Leo III, a nobleman who rules over a small plot of land near the capital. He was almost completely incompetent, but with that incompetence came loyalty to the kingdom and it’s king that Rolfe had never seen before. Next was Senator Ouen who ruled over Fort Lanchester. A general in the army for several years he had proven himself in battle many times, rising through the ranks. His military strategy is often welcome, but he is a better suited general then Senator. Not long after Senator Gylbart III, rumors haven’t done the man any favors. There are talks that he wishes the Anarcho-Liberal Extremist, and is trying to remove the monarchy altogether. As frightening as these rumors are though, King Rolfe has found little evidence of this. At the same time three other senators had entered Senator Gerard, Wyman, and Humphrey. All three are politically conservative, and though disagree with some of Rolfe’s more progressive reforms have remained loyal. Next was Sir Donald III, the first man to renounce his senator title, arguing that he was a knight first and a senator second, though he was fine being both. Knighthood had earned little loyalty towards the crown however, his views are often reactionary and has sought to return to the old ways. Two more senators entered Roley and Joss VI, the exact opposite of Sir Donald. They walked a fine line between Anarchy and Liberalism, and argued for more power for the senate. The last seat though was empty, held by Senator Bartel, who died four months ago, after a period of illness. The matter was investigated, but it seems to have been natural death.

After each senator took their seat, Roley was quick to begin discussions. “The people deserve fair and equal representation within the government, many nations have already accommodated this, we and a few others though remain at odds with this ideal. The future of nations isn’t governed by a king, but by the people. If the monarchy can not learn to adapt to this, then the people will remove the monarchy.”

“Shut up about the damned people Roley, the King has given in to so many liberal demands that if he listened any further we would fall into anarchy” Sir Donald demanded. Senator Gerard shouted in agreement, while Humphrey nodded quietly with approval.

“Your majesty this is the same man who refuses to use his title of Senator, a title given to a select few during time of service. A service that I might add, to the king himself.” Roley’s temper was getting the best of him, but in comparison to Sir Donald it was relatively tame. This argument continued for a long period of time, but soon enough discussions changed. Topics on how to deal with the threats of outside nations, specifically Nehelenia, and the defense of their colonies in the New World where prevalent.

Nearly six hours of debate on issues had passed, but Rolfe had kept interest throughout. His decision was made, and silently stood. “Sir Donald and Senator Joss VI, I hereby relieve you of your service as senators of the people and king. With this relieve I wish you luck, but must hereby revoke the title of senator.”

Joss VI left quietly, most likely to return to his small plantation in the east, but Sir Donald left with a sneer, “Your petty title and this kingdom means nothing to me, have fun falling into anarchy.” Most likely to return to his home in Bellesea Keep Sir Donald left, but with family in Tangaria he may leave the country entirely if he truly meant those words. For now though, over the next three months elections will take place.

---

JARELIAN INDEPENDENCE CRISIS

Official Statement from King Rolfe himself
“We have no opinion on the crisis at hand, and can only hope that matters are resolved without bloodshed.”
~Signed
King Rolfe of House Rolant

Nehalenian Ultimatum

These bizarre men arrived upon our shores from the East. These Nehalenians, as they call themselves, demanded that we return 'their' naval vessel back to their possession. Their figure of speech was quite peculiar, referring to us as 'barbarians'. What right do these 'civilized' men have to look down upon us while they still treat their womenfolk as they have done for centuries. To these 'New Worlders', their womenfolk have a role in their society that is no better than vessels whose sole purpose is for the creation of the men's progeny.

These 'Nehalenians' are not welcome within our borders. If they even dare to step foot on our shores, we shall see their violation of our sovereignty as a declaration of war and culpable for retaliation. We cannot imagine that these 'New Worlders' are crazy enough to launch an invasion during this harsh winter. If they would prefer to starve out their worthless men, let them condemn their soldiers to a slow and miserable death.

Messengers to the Zanoni Tribes

Messengers have been sent to the Zanoni Tribes, requesting any assistance that they could provide at the time against the Nehalenian Ultimatum.

Western Sides, Bay of Amazonia, near the Thermodon river mouth

Admiral John Gortan watched how a rowing vessel moved in on the shore. On board of the boat where Westers Sides Company diplomats Hugo Mcvain and Arthur Rochier. Their job was to deliver Nehalenia's terms to settle the situation and in the case of disagreement, discuss different terms. The road to the Queens castle was pretty much unclear. In the old world, Amazonia was pretty much uncharted territory. Not much was known about this civilization. None the less, the Nehalenians regarded them as inferior barbarians, like every other civilization they have encountered in the new worlds. Even some old world powers like the Sanguine Empire where viewed as substandard and underdeveloped.

As the admiral watched his diplomatic party approach the Amazonian shore the captain of the RNN Nehalenia nodded “Do you think these uncivilized barbarians will agree to the terms, admiral?”

The admiral remained silent for a few seconds and then spoke. “No, my expectation is that the entire diplomatic party gets executed. That is why I only send a small 8 men escort with them. After that we'll search the coast and see if we can find the” RNN Victory and recapture her by force. If not, we'll shell some coastal towns in retaliation and go home. No point In going to war over a single ship. The costs of such war will be greater then to build a new ship. It is more a matter of prestige. I am willing to accept the loss of some prestige. That is what you get if the WSC board is putting incompetent men in command of prestigious ships just because he's the son of a board member.

Admiral Gortan was refering to Percy Duvail, captain of the RNN Victory and son of Argibald Duvail on of the 5 board members of the Western Sides company. Percy Duvail did graduate from the Royal Nehalenian Naval academy but was generaly considered average at best. Under normal circumstances men who just graduated from the Naval Academy would be enlisted as an officer on a navy or trade vessel and gradually rise across the ranks until they where experienced enough to become captain of a ship. In Percy's case, his father pulled some strings to make sure he would become captain of a prestigious first rate ship. The consequences of this action proved to be a disaster. Percy Duvail managed to ran his ship aground on his first voyage and was never heard from again. Only through a long search throughout the Western Sides the RNN Victory was found as in possession of the Amazonian Queen. After that the board hastily ordered a recovery operation.

The diplomats Hugo McVain and Arthur Rogier carried the following letter for the Queen of Amazonia

To the great Queen of Amazonia

Word has reached the Nehalenian king that armed forces of the Queendom of Amazonia has seized the Royal Nehalenian Naval ship RNN Victory. This is an action that could be considered an act of war. The Western Sides Company has been authorized by King George Therus III of Nehalenia to conduct all diplomatic matter in the Western Sides. By this letter the board of the Western Sides Company would like to inform the Queen of Amazonia that such actions against Nehalenian interests are not tolerated. However the board still sees room to avoid bloodshed and war.

By authorization of king George Therus III of Nehalenia the Western Sides proposes the following solution:

The Queendom of Amazonia will comply with the following terms:

1. The immediate release of the RNN Victory.
2. The immediate release of all officers and crew members that where captured.
3. The payment of 100.000 Nehalenian pounds as reparations.
4. The Queendom of Amazonia will refrain from any form of hostile action against Nehalenian shipping and trade interest for the next 50 years

If these terms are not acceptable for the great Queen of Amazonia, the diplomats Hugo McVain and Arthur Rogier are authorized by the board to discus changes to these terms.

Amazonian messengers carried the following message to the Nehalenian representatives

To the representatives of Basileus Georgios Theros III,

The Queendom of Amazonia rejects all terms and conditions pressed upon us by your imperialistic ambitions. Your proposition is offensive, to put it nicely. The Nike, which you all call the RNN Victoria, shall remain in our possession and we shall pay no fines. We demand that you leave our shores at once. If you do as we ask, that is leaving our shores, we shall release the eight men, whom you had sent to us bearing that one-sided 'solution' and we shall provide them with an escort to whatever lands in your possession that happens to be closest to our borders. However, if you shall refuse, we shall do whatsoever we please with these men, whether we toss them into slavery or force them into concubinage.

The fate of these eight men shall be decided by howsoever you choose to respond. Please pick wisely, lest your men suffer a fate worse than death.

The Empire of Zellon

As the King sat in his his officer one of his secretary's intruded and brought the letter of Heinrich von Luck, Jarelian Nationalist Committee. After he took a minute to read it he crumpled it and and threw it out. "How dare this man believe that anyone aside from their god given king can rule. We shall wait till next month to see how things go before sending troops and the fleet. For now send the King any extra needed supplies." The Secretary nodded and walked away.

The king then got back to what he was doing and sending a letter to Queen Emily IV of the Kingdom of Kunenia and King Rolfe of the Kingdom of Braiyusal.





After signing and marking them with his stamp he called in a messenger to send take the papers and give them to the correct person. By then he only had one thing left to do. He needed to find a marriage for his royal heir but who. He would need sometime to think which of the continental powers would get him the best alliance.

Kalpian News January 1836

The Kingdom of Kalpia has increased its modernization by the constant support of the monarchy for the new factories in the country , sometimes ven giving subsidies to them , this practice has been encouraged by several advisors in the court of the King , but in some clubs thought about the danger that this could be in the future not leading the world to free market economy

About the crisis in the neighbour country of Murelia the king has given its position about the problems they face and he has gave its total support for the monarchy there and hopes that all troubles are solved soon , our king has even gave the Murelian monarchy a gift as sign of total support.

Jarelian Independence Movement

With a cry to the civilized powers of the world against the oppression of the Second Kingdom of Murelia, Heinrich von Luck found his allies fleeting. Supplies did come, several regiments worth of muskets arrived with several weeks worth of ammunition from an anonymous donor. The revolutionaries were equipped within days and Hans von Ludick's Blackcoats began getting picked off while on patrol. The Jarelian independence fighters, named Suyas in the hectic Jarelian language, numbered only about 7,000 and were not well organized. News became commonplace however that they had been equipped and they were fighting back.

The king of Murelia, Hans von Ludick IV was not without friends, however. Supplies had arrived by the crate load to supply King Ludick's blackcoats. Equipped with rifles from a slew of Great Power factories, the blackcoats were sent in force to exterminate the Jarelians. Fighting intensified and those who could fled into the Kingdom's of Osteria, Skeptoni and Dalatrum.

[Minor Support for the Jarelian Independence Movement is beset by larger support for the Second Kingdom of Murelia]
[The Jarelian Independence Movement has intensified]



Grand Room, Capital of Neya, Kingdom of Thennia

The diplomat was well received. Long in the tooth but fresh of mind, King Jacques of the Lower House of Hannis was nearing his seventieth winter. He met the Nehalanian diplomat with a gracious service of fruits and wines. Halfway through his speech considering the positive aspects of unrestricted trade between the Thennian kingdom and Nehalanian, the King raised his hand and silenced the diplomat.

"Sign the blasted thing," the King huffed, dropping his hand. The diplomat, surprised but prepared, pulled the document free and received the king's signature. He was sent away to his chambers, to be sent home at the next rising of the sun back south into Nehalanian lands.

Treaty of Friendship Between Nehalenia and Thennia (1836)

1. Nehalenia guarantees the independence of Thennia. Any hostile move or invasion against the state of Thennia will give Nehalenia a casus belli against the aggressor. In case of war against Thennia, Nehalenian forces are allowed to cross the border into Thennia to support its defense.

2. Nehalenia and Thennia agree to unrestricted trade between the two countries.

Signed by:

[X] King George Therus III of Nehalenia
[X] King Jacques of Hannis of Thennia

Uncharted River, Western Sides, Amazonian Territory

The RNN Valhal had settled a few hundred yards off the coast for three days now. The last Captain Karas had seen of the Royal Marine expedition was them disappearing into the thick vegetation. So long as they were the ones rumbling around in the forest, he didn't have a problem with it. When the sun set, he checked in with the First Mate and set about the guard for the night on deck, a dozen or so Royal Marines with musket and saber. As was the standard, when the guard was set, Captain Karas overlooked pertinent files on board and ate his dinner in his cabin. The ship rocked gently to and fro, but things were quiet.

Lost in time, Karas looked up at the closed door ahead of him and immediately heard the shot of a musket. Then another. Then a volley. He pulled himself from his chair and ripped the pistol from his side. He swung the door open and climbed the stairs onto the deck. It looked worse than it was. He stepped over a man still gibbering about on the ground and cradling a huge laceration just above his waist. Several bodies lay tossed around the deck, and those marines and sailors still standing were firing off into the water below. Karas found the First Mate and accosted him.

"They came from the darkness, sir!"

"Are you mad, First Mate?"

"Nay, sir! They scaled the ship! Broads with swords and knives and hulking eyes!"

Karas dismissed the First Mate and leaned off the side of the boat to get a good look for himself. Without the light of industry, the Western Sides as a whole was dark and unknown. The waves splashed below but Karas could see nothing. He holstered his pistol and the men around him, their rifles spent, lowered their weapons. Sleep wouldn't come easy tonight.

[Amazonians raid the RNN Valhal (Third Rate) and kill 7 Royal Marines and 22 Sailors.]

Treaty of Alliance between the Duchy of Fulric and Skeptoni

1. The Kingdom of Skeptoni guarantees the independence of Fulric. Any hostile move or invasion against the Duchy of Fulric will give The Kingdom of Skeptoni a reason to join the war against the aggressor. Should the Duchy of Fulric be at war and under attack The Kingdom of Skeptoni may cross the border into Fulric and aid their defense.

2. Unrestricted trade between the two nations by sea or land.

Signed By:

[X] King Herald Skaneg
[X] Duke of Fulric, Duke Konrad Steinmann

A short time friend of the multicultural Dalatrum, King Quinn the Guard had earned his name by being defensive in both military and political spheres. He was a recluse, and often poured over documents for hours, analyzing for weakness. It was then of the worst luck that the Dalatrian diplomat that was received on January 21st, 1836 was not as confident as his contemporaries. King Quinn met him in the Meeting Hall of the Sinesian castle, a high walled manor along the southern coast of the Sinesian kingdom.

As per his instructions, the diplomat attempted to explain his reasoning for the United Kingdoms of Dalatrum to guarantee the perpetual independence of a Sinesia nation, but instead was beset on all sides by a crimson jacketed man who stood just off to King Quinn's side. A new adviser, the Dalatrian diplomat assumed. His every statement was questioned by the man however, and with every answer, King Quinn's mood soured. The diplomat did his best, but for reasons beyond his explanation found himself feeling stupid by the learned man's attacks.

Finally, he pulled the document from his back and had a servant hand it to King Quinn. With a spectacle eclipsing his eye, the monarch unrolled the document and looked it over. Moments later and the diplomat was being led by two riflemen to his room. He was allowed to stay the remainder of the night and was then sent on his way back to north to Dalatrum. When the diplomat returned to Dalatrum, he explained what happened, to no avail.

[The Kingdom of Sinesia denies the Guarantee of Independence by Dalatrum and falls to UNFRIENDLY status by the meddling of another, anonymous state]

Kingdom of Anvegad
January 1836

"Murelia." Grumbled the young king of Anvegad, standing at the head of the meeting room table where his collected ministers of the inner council stood huddled around the maps and charts whilst wrapped in thick mantles despite the heat of the fireplace in the room. The winter was cold, this one particularly so. Yet the wheels of politics and nations continued to turn, however slowly. "Its relevance, Supreme Commander? We cannot permit these rebels to usurp the rightful rule of their king."

"Marginal sir." Replied Supreme Commander Petrovski, who took the cold with his usual stoic bearing (and several layers beneath his fur cloak) as the rest of the table turned towards him for guidance on the matter than their King, "Our reliance on Murelian gold is lessened thanks to your enlightened insight into industrial affairs, and the conflict is simply too distant to be worth attempting a campaign in support of either side during winter. The logistics of the situation cannot be ignored nor its scale. Yet we must make our own statement on this matter in support of their rightful king. If we cannot send an force in form, perhaps support in spirit will suffice to put new strength in the king's loyal followers."

"In what manner, Supreme Commander?" Inquired the Minister of Coin, already frowning at potential cost especially at the time of winter. An expression the Supreme Commander almost enjoyed as he worked to phrase his statement properly.

"The Murellian Blackcoats have a few officer cadets within our academy. And for all their expertise in formations to match our own, their organizational and logistical expertise is sorely lacking. I propose we send these cadets home bearing our message of support for the King of Murellia along with a gift of several of our military manuals to assist them in this regard."

"A gift with a little meat to it, I like it." Smirked Adrian. "That should put a nice dent into whoever really instigated this revolt."

"You suspect foreign intervention my lord?" Asked the Foreign Minister, with carefully calculated shock for the King's pleasure.

"Of course! How could these mongrel commons come up with this revolution to begin with? Let alone gain guns and will to go up against the Blackcoats? We must find out who is really behind this 'von Luck' man. I leave you to handle it. Now if that is all, I have regular audiences to return to. It seems this winter's cold has caused a spark of invention, and some of their ideas seem quite practical-sounding for a change."

"Indeed. Return to your duties sire, we shall handle the triffling remaining matters of the situation in Murellia on your behalf." Saluted the Supreme Commander as the King was led out of the room back to the great hall. As soon as the door closed, he returned to the assembled men around the table with a more serious expression. "Now gentlemen, I believe we have more serious business to speak of than this matter of rebellion. Starting with this damn coal shortage. This cold is intolerable, and we need to begin rebuilding the military industrial reserve. I propose we start by expanding the criminal labor draft......

Summary
The Kingdom of Anvegad sends a message of support to the King of Murella, its prayers, and a number of military manuals via returned Blackcoat cadets.

Kingdom of Skeptoni
January 1836

Aegir Expedition

The Skeptoni Keiser Herald Skaneg announced that today a group of settlers would set sail today on an expedition to Serranthia. According to the explorers they are going to be making landfall Northwest of New Nehalania. 700 settlers are being sent on the expedition as well as 110 Royal Skeptonian soldiers led by Andrew Thad. They are expected to make landfall sometime in February.

(Site of Landfall)

Kingdom of Skeptoni
January 1836

The Amalgamation Treaty

The goal of this treaty is not to punish one party or another but to remove tension and agression between the nations of Fulric and Schulstein.

1. For nearly 140 years after the Schulstein Civil War The Duchy of Fulric has been a highly successful independent nation that has shown it did not and does not need to be under the rule of the Grand Kingdom of Schulstein. In the Fulric - Schulstein Civil War Treaty the territory that now makes up the Duchy of Fulric was ceded to the nation of Fulric, however in the past Schulstein has tried to claim they have rights to the territory and have tried to conquer it despite previously forfeiting all claims. The first point this treaty wants to clear up is that the Grand Kingdom Of Schulstein have no claims to any of the territory under the rule of the Duchy of Fulric. The same also goes for the Duchy of Fulric, they have no claims on Schulstein territory.

2. Trade between these great nations have been limited due to aggression from both sides. The second goal of this treaty is to reopen all trade between the nations. Whether it be by land or sea trade will benefit both nations greatly.

3. The Kingdom of Skeptoni has made trade agreements with the Duchy of Fulric in the past and it has shown to be hugely beneficial for them, the Kingdom of Skeptoni would also like to make a trade pact with the Grand Kingdom of Schulstein to form stronger relationships not only on a political level but on a social level between the nation's citizens.

Signed By:

[X] King Herald Skaneg
[X] Duke of Fulric, Duke Konrad Steinmann
[ ] Grand King of Schulstein, Grand King Marwick Ludwig Donitz IV

Lieutenant Gurov.
Outside of Wrenclaw.
The breath of both man and horse permitted the air in white clouds of mist, as the cold winds swept across the snow covered field. Within said field, a row of horses stood, each with a rider donned in the traditional blue uniforms of a Boletarian soldier and with fur hats atop their heads as cavalry sabers hung at their sides. The Lieutenant atop his own horse wore a similar uniform, the only difference being the white sash crossing from one shoulder to his opposite hip and around, announcing his rank.

The Lieutenant gazed over the orderly group before him. This was the Third Platoon of the 5th Hussars Regiment, and he'd be damned if they weren't the finest Platoon within the Regiment. Whilst the rest of the regiment remained where it was warm within Wrenclaw, much to the disgruntlement of his own men the Lieutenant had the Platoon outside following standard training procedures in the snow drifts just outside of the walls of Wrenclaw, which now served as a backdrop. Torches moving along the length of the wall were visible in the gloom, as were the slight glint of cannons facing outwards.

The Platoon would be the first regiment outside of those on the border the Kings of both Schulstein and Vressia would see as they neared the Capital. Tasked with serving as an escort for the two Kings and their entourages. The Platoon had to look and act their finest in the presence of royalty. One question stood out in the Lieutenants mind however, if the King wanted to show his power, why not have the nation's renowned Royal Hussars act as escort and not the Hussars of a simple platoon? The Royal Hussars donned in their articulated plate armour with their 'feathered wings' and armed with lances. Boletaria's most elite cavalry should surely have formed the two kings escorts, however rumors where that they had been sent south. Only the Saint knew why.

---

King Conrad,
It please me that you are so willing to negotiate trade between our two nations, and must graciously accept this invitation. However, I must inform you that my senate must remain at home.

Sincerely,
King Rolfe of House Rolant

---

Conflict between Nehelenia and Amazonia was just over the horizon, and King Rolfe was a man of opportunity. Ever since they lost a trade conflict with Nehelenia 26 years ago, new and old world trade had greatly diminished over the years. This however was his best chance to stop the colonial giant from further expanding into the new world. The phrase “The enemy of my enemy is my friend” came into mind.
Three small trade vessels launched from the colony began their journey to the Queendom of Amazonia. They each contained around 500 small arms each and six artillery pieces, a small number, but it was more of a gift to open up further trade between the two countries. One ship, slightly bigger than the other two vessels housed four Braiyusalian Marines and a single diplomat who carried a message:

To the majesty of the Queendom of Amazonia,
I, King Rolfe of House Rolant, have heard news of your recent capture of a Nehelenian vessel, and I don’t doubt that they have already threatened the sovereignty of your land, but I bring a gift. Weapons of the New World. Keep in mind that this will not be enough to fight off an invading Nehelenian force if they choose to fight you, but I promise more weapons of the like. With my diplomat comes four men trained in the ways to use such weapons. They will teach your soldiers the same.
You may ask yourself what is the reasoning behind such a deal, and I answer with this, trade. We are suppliers, and you potential buyers, and with it the humiliation of a rival. All that I ask is that my men return safely, if they do not then I will cut off any potential trade with your nation, and leave you to your fate.
~Signed
King Rolfe of House Rolant