Kingdom of Aontas

~His Grace King Matthias, D.G., King of Aontas and of Follam~

Self-determination is a principle of utmost importance to all facets of state. A idea of an extremely broad nature, it encompasses many of the buildings blocks of the world's nation-states; the right of the people to a government of their choosing is one example, as it is for that government to represent the ideals of the governed. It is because of my admiration for this principle, and most importantly, its reverence among the Aontans which I am entrusted to serve, that I shall be issuing the following declaration. The Kingdom of Aontas shall stake no claim whatsoever to any territory in the continent of Vakellia, establishing no ports, extracting no resources and presuming no sovereignty. Though Vakellia a rich land, which does indeed require partner states to instruct in the formation of stable governments, it shall not be Aontas' place to conduct this instruction. Rather, Aontas shall look inward, and seek to improve itself, that it might better the world not through instruction, but through example. This has always been the way of the Kingdom of Aontas. And, as such as it is her way, so shall her government comply.

That capital acquired in earlier conceptual stages to fund a possible expedition to the Vakellian continent shall instead be diverted to an issue of greater merit: education. It follows that if the Kingdom of Aontas is to be the light of the world, its citizens, the Aontans, must be the world's brightest. The Aontas National Education Programme is from this point onwards the main financial focus of the kingdom's government, and shall be until it is well established that Aontans are not the world's competitors in this regard, but the upper echelon—an example to be followed. These investments will impact not only the kingdom's character and international image, however, but also her economy. An educated populace is a productive one, and it is therefore expected by myself and my ministers that the education programme will enhance the opportunities for Aontans across the kingdom to generate prosperity, for themselves and for their families, through virtue of their own dedication. Such is the way of our nation's people.

Divinity praise and mankind uphold the Kingdom of Aontas.

-- [We Have Better Things to Do]: Instead of expanding outward, we must instead turn inward, to our own affairs. If we take this opportunity to focus on ourselves, we may instead put ourselves in a position to come out on top, even if we do not come across new diamond mines or steel deposits.
* +$20,000,000,000 One Time Use for 1907.
* +5% National Unity. [Instantly]
* +5% Education. [Instantly]

The lieutant Cornelius Mose Hermann has is one of the most trusted officials of the general Von Barlath and he is now in the continent of Vellakia fighting for Kalpia as her right to spread civilization to new lands , he has reported us that the 3rd army has not encounter any fight yet but he declares that he is willing to fight until the end. Currently the Kalpian army is in Vellakia trying to secure the east region after the attacks of the native emperor and its troops to our soldiers in Vellakia just after they landed , the act of aggression to us had to be answered with a direct response from our nation . Von Barlath have sent letters to the High Command wanting to allow him to attack and end the war as fast as possible , a lot of Kalpians agree with him and ask for the goverment to issue the order but currently the goverment has been keep busy with the Verrians that are being incorporated into the Kalpian society .

Tragedy and outrage! The so-called “liberty” and “order” of the Societatem is once again revealed to be no more than empty rhetoric! The mass invasion of Vakellia by West Varia has begun with the utmost brutality and cruel-heartedness, most of all in the lands of the Kamen Empire.

But there is hope! The Battle of the Akiru Jungles has shown us that even without weaponry to match the invaders, the proud and valiant people of Kamen will not fall submit themselves easily to Varian rule. Let this be a rallying cry to all Vakellian nations, that resistance is not futile!

His Imperial Majesty and Sword of Aed, Shayaer Khaitis, gave the following statement of support to the Empires under assault by West Varian greed.

“The Grand Survaek Empire knows well the ways of the West Varians, who stole our Western lands much as they are beginning to steal the rightful territories of Tavironga and Kamen. The rightful rulers of Vakellia must not fool themselves into believing the invaders will settle for one or two concessions, or that they will be peaceable neighbors. Their ambitions will end only at the utter and total conquest of the continent! Gayépela and Odikiali must know that they will be next, if the Empires of Vakellia do not unite to oppose the barbarians!

“Fear not the weapons and numbers of the Varians, for you, rulers of Vakellia, have righteousness on your side! And from Survaek, you will have more than words of support: Already we have sent delegates to each of your nations, to be permanent ambassadors if you will accept them. Like in the days of Yvor and Vokoryn, Survaek wishes to keep ties of friendship and mutual prosperity with the many nations of Vakellia.

“And to any Varian power who seeks to oppose us, remember well that we are fully within our rights to establish and maintain diplomatic and commercial ties to the nations of Vakellia. Any attack or blockade on our merchant shipping or diplomatic transportation will be interpreted as a violation of international law and an act of war!”

Brave and inspiring words from the Grand Survaek Emperor, Aed bless his name!

Empire of Anvegad
October 1906

SOCIATIEM IN QUESTION?

The Empire of Anvegad stands alongside Survaek in it's denunciation of Kalpian aggression in Vakellia. Decrying Kalpian aggression and ruthless aggression in Vakellia above and beyond conventional imperialism, Chairman Volkov questions the integrity of Sociatatem's beliefs in the face of this new colonial war and what they will do about their aggressive member nation. It is one thing for a empire to invade and conquer, but for a supposedly status-quo seeking state to take such a course of action makes the Empire of Anvegad wonder at the true aims of Kalpia.

In other news, various Anvegad officials and industrial group representatives have been dispatched to Vakellia for formalization of relations between local states and Anvegad. Interception of diplomatic and economic courier ships will be considered a hostile act against the Empire of Anvegad and the Imperial Restoration.

INDUSTRIAL DRIVE

Meanwhile, newspapers and public speakers in Anvegad continue to tout the growing industrialization of the Empire. Trains loaded with steel are common sight among the cities as new factories and workshops are built in Anvehold and Port Endeavour. Enrollment in the national academies has never been higher as major industrialists issue scholarship grants for the purpose of raising a new generation of skilled industrial workers and welders, while the number of farmhands leaving the countryside to join the

But that is not enough for minds such as Agevius Teslov as he announces his plan to begin work on a new centralized power station in Port Endeavour with the generous assistance of Engines East, the Empire's foremost naval heavy industry firm, as part of its ongoing modernization reforms to meet the future head-on, and completely electrify it's primary capital shipyards alongside establishing direct railroad connections to it's dockyards.

"To what end is progress? Why to enable more progress of course. Never before have we had a chance to maximize the utility of every person within the empire. To live beyond day to day struggle for food and shelter, and bring everyone together to further the ends of the nation at large. The time of progress is now."
- CEO Miloslav, owner of Miloslav Toolworks

Kingdom of Aontas

To refer to the recent events in Salardia following the assassination of President Poullain as anything short of deplorable would be a horrific disservice to all Salardians, and an error outmatched in severity only by the villainous actions undertaken there themselves. Henri de Savoi is a traitor to his own people, and it is the expression of fact to state that his seizure of the Salardian cabinet is illegal. Equally illegal is the imprisonment of President Nelson Kouladier, the lawful head of state of the Republic of Salardia, and his contemporaries in the Salardian ministries. With the facts presented as they are, it is the logical standpoint of the Kingdom of Aontas that the actions undertaken by Henri de Savoi's government are of zero legal standing, and, in general, of absolutely no legitimate force or effect. That any foreign state would recognize Henri de Savoi's government as legitimate is ludicrous, and reflects poorly on that nation's regard for both due process and the rights of Salardian citizens. The force currently controlling Salardia, to be entirely blunt, is absolutely nothing more than a group of men with guns. They have no legal authority to govern, and most importantly have betrayed their own nation and their own vows of duty to serve the Salardian republic. Savoi's is a traitor's army, and one that will face a traitor's due consequence.

The Republic of Salardia, whose incumbent president is Nelson Kouladier, undergoes political crisis. It is occupied by an illegal entity posing serious humanitarian risk to the citizens of the republic, as well as the more existential risk of destabilizing other states. For any nation to fail to intervene to resolve this crisis would be a disservice to mankind. For this reason and others, the Foreign Office of the Kingdom of Aontas is pleased to announce an intervention in the Salardian nation, for the purpose of providing the necessary aid to the Republic of Salardia to restore that nation's legitimate government to power. This intervention shall be an entirely lawful one; the Republic of Salardia and Kingdom of Aontas mutually benefit from a recently signed defensive alliance, and it is utterly clear that the Republic of Salardia faces aggression. Should any legally constituted governments object to heretofore mentioned intervention, they are welcome to voice their concerns to President Kouladier of the Republic of Salardia.

Divinity praise and mankind uphold the Kingdom of Aontas.

With the death of President Poullain in Salardia and the subsequent Aontan intervention, the Liberation Council began to view a 'Great War' as less of a theoretical situation and more of a reality. So, soon after the Aontan statement was released, the National Revolutionary Army was given an official order to mobilize on the border with the Kingdom of Soroya's colonial lands. For the first time in over two years, President-General Chiang Cai Xiao and Madame Liu were in the presence with another 'Changtan-Five' Founder publicly. Former Jiangpo business man and current economic minister Jang Winghau. Winghau made his claim to fame in the prelude to the Revolution when he began shifting funds from his steel mining operations and towards nationalist organizations within the former Yong Dynasty's empire. During the Revolution Winghau organized resistance against the Jiangpo garrison. However, his forces were defeated and he fled the city south to Changtan where he'd spend the rest of the war. After the war he quickly was assigned to the Ministry of Economics and Industry, where he has held a shadowy position hidden away in his office in Jiangpo for years.



At the public ceremony announcing Xian's military mobilization and recognition of the Grand Duchy of Salardia, President-General Chiang Cai Xiao once again called for Faresians to unite against 'Varian Imperialism' and unite under the banner of Restoration 'Co-Prosperity'. The President-General compared the Imperial Restoration Movement to the noble warriors of old Xianese lore fighting against the 'Dark Divines'. After the spoken announcements, NRA soldiers were paraded through Beiqling for the following hour before marching off to the border, where trenches faced new improvements and the creation of Machine Gun nests.

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With mobilization beginning and men marching from home once again, the Jiangpo FMBG revealed the finalized design of the Baishan Type 07-98. Unlike the Baishan Type-95 the 07-98 was a lighter, carbine-esque rifle designed for higher accuracy and the capability to carry more rounds. After the final design was chosen, the FMBG announced production over 30 thousand of the new design to be sent immediately to the border for 'field testing purposes'. It is yet to be known how the new rifle will fit within the current NRA arsenal.

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Late in December of 1906 Foreign Minister and Head Delegate of Xian to the Imperial Restoration Movement Shiu Fuhua traveled to the capital of the Republic of Manyeong for diplomatic negotiations. Since the formation of the Republic of Xian the Liberation Council kept close relations with Manyeong. The two nations sharing a similar history of republicanism and anti-Yamarano sentiments. It was unknown until after the negotiations that Ambassador Fuhua had traveled to Manyeong for reasons involving binding the two nations by diplomatic and trade ties. However, by January government trade ships from Manyeong were met at the Jiangpo harbor and Xianese corporate and government vessels began shipping to Manyeong in return. In addition, it was revealed that discussions involving joint military training operations within Xian were a possibility within the future, as both the NRA and the Manyeong military were in need of new ideas and minds militarily.

“Austere but inattentive, as always,” mused the camera operator, an elderly Khaitis man in an Imperial Press Service uniform with a few odd medallions and decorations attached. “Always lacking in finery, and wearing that damn fur cap. Why do we even keep bothering with the photographs?” The complaint was half-sincere, half-joking, and more familiar in tone than most would expect from a journalist to a high official.

“To be honest, I would ask you the same,” the subject of the photo quipped back. “I'm not the one who insists on bringing out the camera for every little occasion. It's one thing to have the clicks and flashes around in Anvegad, where at least I understand the novelty of my presence. What is this for anyways, some corner stub eight-pages from the front of the Weekly?”

The journalist chuckled. “Closer to the front than you'd think, with the Press Release and all. And son, you'll have to get used to it eventually, with your position. A Haerk like you should know how to be the center of attention, and for that matter how to move with the times. The Press Service isn't about to hire a court painter for your Excellency.”

The official shrugged. “A Haerk like me is going to be the center of attention no matter how fine my attire or how focused I look in the photographs. Your journalists and the public will just have to get used to me, I suppose.”

“You never change, do you Aedis?” The old man shook his head and sighed. “Same lad before the war and after, before entering the bureaucracy and after, before your promotion and after. You could become Grand Vizier, and you'd still be the same plain, stoic young man as always.”

“Yes, except not so young anymore.”

“Wrong,” interjected the official subordinate and age-superior of Aedis Haerk. “You'll be young till you die. You don't know how to grow old!”

Both men laughed. They had more or less the same conversation every month or so, whenever the IPS wanted a new photo of the Foreign Minister for another article on Survaekom diplomacy. Minister Haerk' only condition on the Press was to send the same man to take the picture every time, and conduct the interview if necessary.

“Until next time, friend,” Haerk spoke, finally turning to reach for the door. “When should I expect you?”

“Soon, I imagine. War's on the way, and then you'll be the most important man in the Empire outside the Court and the Front.”

“I look forward to it,” Haerk replied with no hint of dread or irony. If war was to come, so be it. His Aed-given duty would stay the same no matter the fluctuations in public attention.

IMPERIAL FOREIGN MINISTRY PRESS RELEASE, 8 JANUARY 1907

It is with celebration and good tidings that the Grand Survaek Empire recognizes the Grand Duchy of Salardia and the legitimate rule of his Excellency Marshal Henri de Savoi – soon to be crowned Grand Duke of Salardia. We further recognize the Grand Duchy's entrance into the Imperial Restoration. May Aed smile upon the cooperation between our two glorious nations.

Regrettably, not all nations are ready to accept Salardia's return to greatness and imperial ambition. We of the Grand Survaek Empire condemn the Kingdom of Aontas in particular, for its baseless accusations against the House de Savoi and its vile threats to “intervene” on behalf of the defunct Republic. Their statement is akin to the tantrum of a child enraged by the loss of a favorite toy, to use the same imagery his Majesty King Mathias has in the past.

Let this be clear to the world: Any attack on any member of the Imperial Restoration, wherever they may be in the world, is an attack on the Grand Survaek Empire. We retain the right to respond with all necessary force to those who would compromise the integrity of our allies.

Glory to his Majesty Shayaer Khaitis: Master of the Southlands, King of Raethon and Byrnia, Grand Chief of the Khaitis, Sword of Aed, and Grand Survaek Emperor.

Signed,
Foreign Minister Aedis Haerk

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Crisis in Salardia

After recent news of the coup lead by Henri De Savoi, President Kevin Notles gave an official address to the current situation in Salardia and her ally Aontas’ actions. “It saddens me to see a peaceful nation such as Slaradia fall into political and military strife. How any responsible nation can recognize this blatant power grab is beyond me, to openly accept a military dictatorship as a member nation, to have them represent your own ideology.

Is this the kind of men we can expect to see leading the Imperial Restoration? Mad men craving power, and suddenly seizing it when their enemies are at their weakest? Can the world not see that this is the kind of people Imperial Restoration not only promotes, but advocates for. I honestly don’t know what to say.” President Kevin Notles stopped for a second, feelings conflicted over the current situation. He had no idea that the restoration would commit such a monstrous act such as this.

“I do know this. Whether through peace, or by force, I will recognize Sociatatem’s goals. War should never be a first choice, but it is a choice. On this day I ask Soroya, no, I ask the nations of the world that promote the ideals of freedom and democracy, please stand by me. Help me stop these warmachines. If it means beating them at their own game, then so be it, but I give in no more. Every move I make will be to promote these goals. Stand strong, the worse has yet to come.”

The crowd cheered, but his face was full of discontent. Every small victory, lead to a crushing defeat. Something Kevin Notles had never imagined six years ago. The world looked on with a judgemental eye, looking for the faults in Sociatatem’s practice at every turn. Nations such as Kalpia and Deltora, questioning motives or reasoning did not strengthen this bond. It was the Imperial Restorations inherent lack of criticism between member states that made it so strong, though Notles saw the cracks.

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Faresian Relations

After the recent events in Salardia, Kevin Notles was convinced at preventing it from occurring to another independent state. Sending a message throughout Faresia’s neutral nations excluding Yamarano and Xian:
To the respective leaders of Haegye, Manyeong, Wataraoi, Heoryong, Sarihae, Basai, Nasong, and Nakashisaki,

Recent events in Salardia and Serranthia worry me about the future stability of not Varius, but of the world. The Imperial Restoration has been accused of numerous accusations from forging claims, unlawful occupation of territory, military coups, and puppeting sovereign nations. These are the ideals of the Imperial Restoration. Rapid expansion into neighboring countries and the acquisition of strategic locations and resources.
I fear this warmonger's allies have similar feelings. Xian, specifically, neighbors the majority of you. Aided with foreign weapons from the Survaekom Army, he shows more than just plans to remove my territorial claims from Faresia, but rather to claim the entire continent for themselves. A frightening prospect to say the least.
Please, if you are a free thinking democratic people’s I ask for your open support. That you allow open relations within our two nations. Even if it does not mean joining Sociatatem, then by aiding us in our goals for a free world.

Sincerely,
Prime Minister of Soroya, Kevin Notles

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Let the games begin

As of January 6th Soroya announces the Ekonian games. A grand sports tournament held in Ekonian lands nearly 1000 years ago, it was rediscovered two years ago by a group of archeologist just outside of the city of Ekon. The sport itself originally hosted a series of competitions such as swimming, marathons, and various other competitions to prove one's own physical prowess.

A group of entrepreneurs after this discovery quickly began funding this project, before the Soroyan government themselves began funding development, creating the first ever stadium in Sikea, Soroya just last year. The stadium itself seats nearly 50,000 attendees expected to come from all over the world.

The first ever competition will begin on June 1st and will last until June 18th. Forty three different sporting events have been announced, including track-and-field, gymnastics, swimming, cycling, wrestling, weightlifting, fencing, and shooting. The top three performing athletes will receive a bronze, silver, and gold metal respectively as a reward for their athletic performances. Soroya officially invites any and all nations interested in attending, whether Varian, Serranthian, Sarelian, Faresian, or Vakellian, all nations are welcomes to participate.

The Republic of Deltora
1906

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November 1st, the day that the Samgolan people were granted autonomy within the Republic of Deltora. Those loyal citizens of our most fair Republic, now rewarded their due with a new found independence granted through the passing of an Act within the confines of the People's Palace. The Government of Samgolan Act, put forth by Prime Minister Eduoard Geiger passed just narrowly in the face of opposition, many heralding the act as being the seed to spread dissent within the unified Republics. Eduoard countered stating that as a nation that heralds democracy and freedom within the known world, should it not also be present within itself too? No, the bills passing would in fact bring the nation's peoples together.

"It can not be said that we are not fair, and kind to those who stand under our banner, it can not be said that we are like those who oppose us. Those such as the Survaek Empire, or the Sumayans in distant Sarelia, who threaten the extinction of those not of their own preset creed, such ideas remain even within our own allies. But we are not among them, if we are to lead into a new world of peace, we must surely be among the most accepting and kindred of nations. If we do not do that which we herald, we are for naught."

The Act itself, providing not independence but autonomy for the Samgolan people, set forth the following terms:
- A bicameral Parliament for the Samgolan is to be established in Port Vail, with powers to deal with most national affairs such as health, education and agriculture. However international affairs such as matters involving the military, foreign affairs and diplomacy and taxes are to be concluded within the Deltoran Parliament at Evemont.
- Samgolan MPs are to be granted the ability to sit in Parliament.

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Zellonia, the cause of unrest in Kalpia?

A joint investigation headed by Deltoran, Soroyan and Kalpian officials taking place in Mistburn, the capital of Kalpia in rooting out the cause of unrest spreading throughout Kalpian territory. Has traced the source to several newspaper printers within the city, the establishments were closed down immediately by the constabulary, found responsible for printing anti-Sociatatem, and false propaganda. Even more curiously, said establishments were found to have been funded by zellonian currency, Kalpia's old colonial rival.

In light of the recent findings, a telegraph from the Head of State's office to the Zellonia government, requesting that a meeting be held to discuss politics between Prime Minister Geiger himself and whomever the Zellonians saw fit to answer in either Evemont or Evanston, has been dispatched.

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In response to Notles own speech, Eduoard Geiger, Prime Minister of Deltora rallied to his support with a speech of his own.
"Deltora will honour the pledge, we will stand with the Sociatatem until pain of death. For the maintenance of peace and liberty, there is no price too high, for if all nations gave way to warmongering crows or even support such ambitions consumed in their own manifest greed, the world would bore witness to the end of freedom, and to the rise of tyranny. I believe, dear Notles, that to call these cretins warmachines gives them far too much credit, but rather a child which sees no further than it's own ambition.
Naturally, for nations such as we that are passionate in our cause, cracks there are destined to be. For we are democratic, not at all like the so called Imperial Restoration, which stands at the beck and call of the Survaekom as nothing more than it's poodle.

It has also come to my attention, that upon the dawning of the new year. The Treaty of Evemont which keeps our bonds tied is to be ratified once more, however, this year I hereby invite the nation of Murenhedit to our side. To sign this testimony of paper, which will strengthen our nations. For there is no greater bond than the pledge to protect, and on that most dreadful day when war is upon us, it will be honoured."

"We are not an old nation. Unlike Survaek and Xian we have no ancient history of conquest or past glories to reclaim. Sarelia has never been a center of civilization or a power in the world at large.

No, our goal is not to restore what once was, but to create a new future: a future where Sarelians are regarded as equals to Varians; where our lands are our own and our people are united; where our language, religion and customs are respected; and where Sumaya is a strong and powerful nation, capable of defending its people and claiming its place in the world.

Many of Societatem's goals are noble and praiseworthy, but at the heart of their organization is a policy of exclusiveness we cannot accept. In Societatem the halls of diplomacy and decision-making at the heart of the world would always be closed to us. Power would be a club for Varians only, while Sumaya would have the 'privilege' of taking whatever scraps the Varians decide we are worthy of.

This is why we have joined the Imperial Restoration: not because of our to restore old nations, but because the restoration accepts change. While other nations have scoffed at our attempts to achieve parity, Survaek, Anvegad and the nations of the Restoration have accepted us into their halls and given Sumaya the respect it is due."

-- Queen Sinta, on why the Sumayan Malikate chose to join the Imperial Restoration movement.

The Salardian Coup
On December 15th, President Poullain was shot and killed on the steps of the Aontan Embassy. Hours later, a military coup was instituted and soon the nation changed. No longer the Republic of Salardia, the newly Grand Duchy of Salardia renounced the alliance with the Kingdom of Aontas and planned on joining the Imperial Restoration. And the nation did join the Imperial Restoration on December 27th as it quickly angered Kingdom of Aontas announcing an intervention on the nation.

However, the King and Queen didn't comment about the simulation at the time because of communication issues with both sides. Now that they know about what happened, they decided to comment the issue on New Years Eva. As the King stated to a crowd outside the palace, "The United Kingdoms of Athos and Stules are still planning to give the land to the Grand Duchy of Salardia. The land holds one million of their people and they have the right to reunite, not be divided once more because of the military coup.".

The land trade was still finishing up on New Years Eva and it was expected to be finished when spring begun.

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The Situation of Kemo-Kalpian War
The Kalpian Republic declared war on the Empire of Kamen on September 1st after starting up a colony on Vakellia as other nations did. The United Kingdoms of Athos and Stules viewed the attack as Kalpian Republic the aggressors rather than the Empire of Kamen. In a letter to the President Franz Bastian Sorg, it said that they must stop expanding into Vakellia with the usage of terror and violence against Kamen. And it also stated that the United Kingdoms would blockade the nation until troops are removed and a formal apology is made to Kamen for attacking.

The letter was made by the Queen, it was one of the few letters she ever wrote to the leaders in her life time. In short, the letter states that the Kalpian Republic started the Kemo-Kalpian War not the Empire of Kamen.

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A Statement on Societatem Nations
The King near the end of January made a speech to the nations in Societatem. Before he and his wife were going to join, now they have decided to pull away from joining the Societatem. This was due to the attacks on the Empire of Kamen made by Kalpian without any reason other than wanting more land. The King has stated that, "Unless Franz Sorg changes his way of running his nation or leaves the Societatem, more nations wouldn't join the Societatem. You're going to start the flames of war and that must end before it's too late.".

Since the announcement of the blockade on Kalpian, the United Kingdoms' relationship with them had been deceasing with the attacks in Vakellia. Now with the speech, their relationship ended and diplomatic ties were cut with them. As for the change of joining the Societatem were destroyed, they might look at the Imperial Restoration or they might even start their own fraction up unless changes are made and Kalpian leaves the Societatem.

MARCH

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OOC NOTE
-- Currently none.

Empire of Anvegad

Palace of the Sovereigns

"The die is cast." Chairman Volkov said wistfully, chewing on the first cigar he had in years in an unconscious response to the weight of events to come. The aged ruler of Anvegad, "only" a Chairman in deference to the broken heritage of Sovereigns that once ruled the Empire in ancient times, now an Empire of industry and military might. Traits that would now be truly tested in the days to come. "May we hope this crisis will come to a swift and decisive conclusion." He said before turning to the assembled room of Generals, Ministers, and leaders of state who bore witness to his reading of Survaek's declaration as per negotiations held behind closed doors some months prior.

"With respect Chairman, even if they do capitulate, we're going to have one hell of a long-term crisis on our hands." Interjected General Markham, veteran of the Soroyan colonial conflict, who stood alonside the other assembled generals and ministers of the Empire in the Chairman's Office. After a moment, the Chairman gestured for him to continue, silencing the other older generals in the room. "There has never, ever been an instance in world history where an entire nation willingly turns over their whole territory to another. Not even Survaek's little stunt in the colonies was entirely clean transition of power, and that was just a colony. Even if, say, Murenheldt does supposedly turn over it's entire state, we're going to have one hell of a time occupying and garrisoning it, let alone holding it and transitioning it to our centralized rule with or without the Sociatatem states fueling rebellion. We will have conflict on our hands sir, and it will not be a short or decisive or winnable by the Valkyrian Ascent." (December)

"I must agree with Markham, if for different reasons." Added another voice, that of General Paragonsky. "I don't think we can count on the Sociatatem to act rationally or sanely at all on this matter. I would be a nice surprise, but we can't rely on moral factors to influence their thinking alone. Regardless of our rightful claims, they are getting desperate. The cracks in their alliance are visible and they can't reign in their worst actors or hide their dissent. They NEED a common enemy to cover up their disputes and lack of unity to their own people, let alone to restore their international reputation."

"And we're right in the firing line." Muttered someone in the back. Likely an aide or flag lieutenant. Noone begrudged the unknown speaker, it was at the forefront of everyone's mind. And too likely to be true to ignore.

The Chairman tapped his foot and took a deep breath of tobacco. "We're not at war yet, and there may be a chance the Sociatatem states see reason. But as the Lord Sovereign Roland once said: 'Honor to the bold, victory to the prepared'. We ignored his words once, and our men starved on the Soroyan front for it. We shall not do so again. I'm ordering Stage Two mobilization and instating the Roland War Production Doctrine as previously discussed. If we must go to war over our rightful claims then we shall go to war in earnest. And what better way to test the limits of my new railroad system?"

"Yes sir!" Cried out a dozen voices in unison. And less than two days later a list of orders was sent to the Signals Corps as the generals began hammering out the execution and distribution of supplies and material to enable the movement of troops thereafter.

Anvehold Central Military Command
Military Central Dispatch Office (SigCorps Command)

"All eyes up here." Ordered Lieutenant General Kislev of the Anvegad Signals Corps as he marched into the central dispatch office of Anvegad High Command. Newly built alongside the railroad telegraph/telephone system, the office complex of hundreds of clerks and typists armed with typewriters, telephones, and connection to the empire-spanning network of rails and wires would now be the centerpiece of the coming storm.

"As of 1400 hours today, High Command has declared we are to proceed to Alert State Two. All railroads are ordered to switch to the military operations timetable within three days starting now as per the Roland Doctrine. All cargo rolling stock and incoming passenger traffic not leaving Anvehold within the end of the day are to be placed on hold for military use. National coal reserves are to be distributed to all fueling stations in preparation for around the clock transit of troops and material, starting with overstocking of our primary heavy-gauge strategic lines to the west and north. Priority order: ammunition and food first. Following distribution orders to follow shortly on manpower allocation. Section heads on me."

The General marched down the corridor whilst a veritable horde of messengers, runners, and signals officers accumulated around him as he continued to relay orders from High Command both from paper and memory of contingency planning done long ago. "Section Two: ring up all border units on Deltoran front and have them begin surveys and recon of their respective sectors and begin fortification drills with the expectation of relief units. Section Three: Begin recall of all troops on stand down, and distribute these orders from High Command on wargames- no, not those, these dossiers- and get our troops warmed up until railroad timetables are set. Section Three: Contact all factories, alert them to begin increasing production to wartime status and that armed inspectors will be on station within the week to make sure they are up to national standards. Section Four: Alert agricultural combines that we will place all stocks of preserved foodstuffs in the central territories under military seal. Anti-hoarding measures are in effect immediately until we have a firm central registry of strategic provisions. Businesses are to be encouraged to cooperate to hasten the review by any means necessary, and I do mean bribes are authorized if need be. They may have their wartime cut, but we will make sure our men march with enough beans, bullets, bandages, and boots. Am I clear? Good. See to it man. Next, Section Five:-"

The litany of orders continued as more runners came from High Command with updates and annexes and supplementary details and orders; relayed through lines of electricity that spanned the nation as it prepared to lay the foundations of war so it's soldiers could be prepared for the days to come. Rolling stock for troop and supply trains was accumulated, provisions began stockpiling atop stockpiles, and troops were called to staging points in preparation for the first large-scale mobilization by rail in world history.

Whether war would come from afar or at home, Anvegad would be ready.

Summary:
Anvegad begins laying logistical foundations for large-scale troop mobilization and movement in event of war. Also testing effectiveness of railroads and tele-signals in troop and logistical mobilization.

After the current declartion of the Imperial restoration , the president and the goverment has decided to inform the country that hard times are going to come and they assure that they will do their best in order to maintain peace and stability and if not to assure the safety of Kalpia and its allies , also the war with the Kamen Empire is almost finish , the only thing is yet to be done is to prepare the terms for their capitulation , the Kalpian had fought a hard war in a unknow territory as a retaliation for their attack on new Vilkts , whle that would deserve a big punishment the goverment has assured that they will do their best to bring civilization to the lands of the Kamen Empire and to assure their liberty and rights in the future , also the goverment has made several conferences with the Etellians over the course of the year to get them to join Societatem , while most of the most people on Etellia are exceptical about them joining the Kalpian diplomats are doing their best in order to get them to join to assure the peace in the world , even the president has made efforts to get them closer to the point where they decide to join Societatem .

The Republic of Deltora
1907

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The Peoples Palace
March 4th, 6:05 AM

As a similar scene played out within the Palace of Sovereigns in Anvegad. Prime Minister Geiger set down the scrap of paper so called the Ultimatum upon his desk as he stood before the assembly of Generals, Admirals and ministers, some bedraggled at being risen at such an early hour of the morn following the Imperial Restoration's ultimatum. To note a few, among them stood Secretary of State for War, Marshal Alfred Daucourt and Admiral of the fleet, Rodolphe Vigouroux still beaming at the success of his Battlecruiser on its trial runs.

"This ultimatum stands as an insult to us all. They claim the existence of a Greater Anvegad which would see our borders and our allies diminished in the name of false history, written by some Survaekom scrooge no doubt last week! We should give no quarter to these warmongers, for if we do, we will have played as much a part as the Zellonians and Athonians in allowing their tyranny to spread." Stated General Leroux, whom had quickly been transported from his command in Serranthia to attend, even at his station he had insisted on receiving the latest changes in foreign affairs. Needless to say, it was well known that the neutrality of said nations angered him greatly, while the Deltorans, Kalpians and Soroyans would bleed for their independence they would stand back and criticize. Despite the Athonians pledge to support the Sociatatem, they had gone back on their word. Many a Deltoran shared a similar sentiment on the betrayal of the Athonians and the reclusive nature of the Zellonians.

"Morals are all well and good, but we must face reason. The Imperial Restoration stands before us with forces much larger than our own. I have not to remind anyone, that it is us, on our land which will see the heaviest fighting of this war for we make up two fronts with the foe. It will be the Deltorans who will pay the highest price to preserve this freedom. This is not me condoning the war, but if we are to achieve victory it will be done so on the defensive, where we can bleed these cretins more so than they us. We should settle in for a long war, and begin preparations now." Spoke aloud Marshal Alfred Daucourt. "Railways should be closed down to the public. Reserving their use only for the transportation of supplies, military personnel and equipment while our industry is to be turned towards the war effort. I expect an excess of buttons, boots, uniforms and rifles for our armed forces."

The Prime Minister found himself nodding at the words of both men.
"This ultimatum, is something we can not accept. The Imperial Restoration will have their war... See that we are as prepared as we will ever be, gentlemen. You have 60 days and my full consent for everything you have said, Alfred." The planning for war, would be better left to those trained and experienced in such matters, while he would look to matters of politics and diplomacy.

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Evemont Harbor

Bridge of the TPS Cyclone
March 7th

Admiral Chaveau looked out upon the harbor of Evemont from the conning tower of the Battlecruiser Cyclone. Several grey ships of the Deltoran Navy sat upon the waves, columns of smoke rising from their funnels as the mobilization of both the army and navy begun. Coal stores were being filled, as several deckhands labored to bring the black ore aboard in preparation for long days at sea to keep the 31 boilers running. While others brought large shells aboard to join the growing line of shells set already upon the deck, eventually to be taken below to arm the several gun turrets on the Battlecruiser. All across the ports and harbors along the Deltoran coast, a similar scene could be seen as the grey ships once more prepared for war.