Ibera Breaks off relations with New Zion
The Iberian embassy has been closed in New Jerusalem. At the same time the entire Zionist diplomatic staff has been expelled from Iberia. No reason has been given. Also all Zionist shipping is given 36 hours to leave Iberian ports and waters; after that deadline any Zionist ships will be seized without additional warning.
A powerful taskforce has been dispatched from European Iberia towards the Indian Ocean.
When in 1914?
December - 2nd week
Wooah!!! THAT was unexpected.
Colombian diplomats will be asking questions...other than, "What're you getting us for Christmas", that is.
France looks puzzled towards the Iberians, but wallow in further decadence.
The New Years orgy in the Moulain Rouge will bring new climax's and new depths of decadence.
Quote from: maddox on November 19, 2008, 06:28:22 PM
The New Years orgy in the Moulain Rouge will bring new climax's and new depths of decadence.
I knew the Round the World Squadron should have done New Years in France....
The RtW squadron would look kind of silly with all of its personnel in jail...
Which would make it all the more amusing to watch ;)
New Years eve around the Moulain Rouge.. everything is allowed, except non consential things. Like fighting,rape or vandalisme. Dying by alcohol and poppy poisoning is allowed.
Ahem...let's not drag Mike's good, God-fearing thread too far into decadence.
Looks at wierd stuff up in thread and shrugs...
Following Warships head towards the Indian Ocean. At the same time Bat Div One and Bat Div Two which had their units in long term repair and refit are having the work rushed to get them ready for sea ASAP.
From Europe
1st Cruiser Squadron
HIIMS Francisco Pizarro
HIIMS Vasco Núñez de Balboa
4th Cruiser Squadron
HIIMS Madrid
HIIMS Rio de Janeiro
9th Cruiser Squadron
HIIMS Cádiz
HIIMS Cebu
13th Torpedo Division
TBD-93, TBD-94, TBD-95, TBD-96 & TBD-97
Repair Group One
AR-1 "Hephaestus"
From Philippines
2nd Cruiser Squadron
HIIMS Henrique o Navegador
HIIMS Cristóbal Colón
7th Cruiser Squadron
HIIMS Apra
HIIMS Colonia
That's a strange assortment of ships if you're thinking of picking a fight with New Zion. Are the European ships going via Suez or taking the long way around?
The delivery of four submarines built in Orange destined for Iberia is delayed until further notice.
Orange places some naval units on full alert, and a few of them (two cruisers, and a destroyer squadron) leaves Durban.
Quote from: Desertfox on November 20, 2008, 01:50:30 PM
That's a strange assortment of ships if you're thinking of picking a fight with New Zion. Are the European ships going via Suez or taking the long way around?
You will have to see...
Michael
Me thinks that the NS ships at sea wouldnt be able to avoid seeing the total lack of Iberian ships at sea in the eastern Pacific... or maybee our famous spy network noticed them departing from Manila (either way this calls for a Briefing) ^.^
Not total lack just cut in half.
Michael
Annoucement of Iberian Government
There have been many rumors circulating to the effect that Iberia is going to attack New Zion. Two years ago the Pope was killed in Rome and a number of leaders including the Iberian Emperor, his son the crown prince, the Emperor of Austria and the Italian Emperor were all in attendance at a special Papal Mass. The Italian Security forces have been hard at work attempting to track down the party responsible for the heinous murder of the Holy Father. In early December the Emperor received a personal letter from the Italian Emperor explaining the final conclusions of the investigation.
In brief Italy believes the murder of the Pope was in fact a case of a botched assassination of the Italian Emperor. The party the Italian Government holds responsible is the government of New Zion as part of a plot to seize the Italia Colony of Burundi.
The murder of the Pope is a loss to all Christendom and an affront to all true Christians. At the same time while the evidence is damming vs. New Zion and the Iberian Government has no reason to doubt the word of the Italian Government the evidence is not absolutely damming.
The Iberian government doesn't believe that a Casus Belli exists over this matter between the Empire of Iberia and the Kingdom of New Zion. Still the Empire of Iberia cannot and will not maintain diplomatic relations with a nation that engages in the attempted murder of a head of state. As such the severing of diplomatic relations between Iberia and New Zion is final.
However the Italian Empire chooses to deal with the matter is one internal to Italy. The Iberian Navy has been dispatched to the Indian Ocean to see to the protection of Iberian interests and the well being of Iberian subjects.
Prime Minister of Iberia, Don Felipe González y Márquez
Herr Kranitz (Industrial and Mining Equipment Import-Export Company, Durban) was spotted in Madrid, no doubt trying to straighten out some misunderstanding with the Orange-Iberian sub deal. In January he was seen to board the express train to Berlin in Gare de L'Est, Paris.
Gibralter lease to Russia to endThe Russian Government has decided to end its 30 year lease early and will return "the Rock" to Iberian Control this year.
War in Africa Over?Following a naval battle vs. Orange and New Zion the Italian Government has asked for a cease fire.
Pirate Warship spotted off New ZionThe famous raider T.A.G. has been spotted off the coast of New Zion.
Italy bashes Orange with paid adThe following ad has been paid for by the Italian Government.
QuoteThe Empire of Italia does not usually fight its battles in the Court of Public Opinion but as some nations have impinged the Honor of the Empire we will respond by providing some facts to interested readers.
The Republic of Orange despite its claims to the contrary is a Slave holding state. To support these claims the Empire of Italia will provide referenced sections of the relevant Legal Code of the Republic of Orange. Before the Citizens of any country support a position that supports the Republic of Orange the Empire of Italia feels that they should have all the facts and to decide for themselves if they would choose to live under the authority of such a government.
http://www.navalism.org/index.php?topic=626.0
The reader should note that the Word Slave only appears once in the legal documents referenced and then only to deny that they exist. But if the reader compares the legal rights of those persons to those of a Slave in the period where they were legal in more of the world I think the readers will find that slavery does still exists in the "Civilized World".
We will start with the section detailing the rights of the Native Population:
Natives ("Kaffirs" or "Blacks")
The black primitive masses originally inhabiting the continent. But the tribes were chased away from the better lands, forcing them to live on marginal farmlands. They provide the bulk of the cheap workforce in the mines and agriculture. Laws restrict their employment in the industry, and they cannot live permanently in white settlements. There are strictly enforced segregation laws to avoid unnecessary intermingling of the white and black population. Few lucky ones are able to work in the white towns - for a maximum of three months a year. They are not slaves legally, but they have limited rights and even that is often ignored. Moreover, when black people stay in "white" areas, they must belong to a white (not colored) person who is not only responsible for them, but also have almost unlimited power over them - this is often translated as slavery by ignorant foreigners.
The Republic of Orange claims it pays all its workers, but if it only pays them enough for subsistence living in abject poverty subject to the order of and I quote here "White (Not Colored) person then if this is not Slavery what is?
Next we will cover the section on the so called Brown People:
Colored ("Kleurlinge"): a mixed group of neither-white-nor-black part of the population, mulattos, people from India and native Khoisans - who has lighter skin than bantu tribes. They are subject to negative discrimination, but their rights are much closer to whites. For example, there are already a limited number of colored officers both in the Army and the Navy, and they can marry white people. They make up a significant part of the urban poor, as blacks are prohibited to stay any extended period id the city. Negative discrimination makes it harder for them to rise up, but there are examples of successful entrepreneurs, engineers and doctors who rose from their ranks.
Although they are considered 'genetically' (no one use this exact word) than whites, their white ancestry is held to allow them to rise up by their own talents. Their political power, mainly to their diversity and low number of colored who are wealthy and educated enough to be enfranchised - thus eligible to vote.
It appears that Brown people are allowed a bit more latitude within the Republic of Orange but are still not afforded the full protection of the Law. They make up a significant portion of the Urban Poor because the White persons of the Republic of Orange appear to allow them to live in the cities full time.
So this is the nation that people see as the champion of the Poor Zionite Nation in East Africa. The Empire of Italia does not ask for your support it simply asks you to think what does the Republic of Orange hope to gain in New Zion a huge nation containing a very large number of "Kaffirs and Kleurlinge". Perhaps they intend to sell them off as a work force as they did with most of the Zulu Nation of Africa?
Prize Liners leave Atlantic Run
SS España and SS Brasil have been pulled from their normal Altlantic run. Tickets have been canceled or offered to be converted to one of the slower and smaller liners of the line. It is rummored that a member of the French Diplomatic mission left the offices of Línea Ibérica Real the day before the annoucement.
Offices of Banco Imperial de Madrid
"Director we are getting word that there is going to be a major shake up in Brazil."
The bank director looked up for the monthly report and looked at the head of South American Operations. "What type of shake up Jorge?"
"One of the industrial groups there is looking to expand in a major move."
The director raised his eye brow, "Not the rolling mills? They are already expanding I thought."
"No director not steel production."
"How much are we talking about here Jorge?"
The other banker paused before he spoke, "At least $75 million Peseta's perhaps even more and it's not expansion but an acquisition."
The director blinked at that statement, "Not expansion? Any more details at all?"
"Not as yet director this is preliminary right now."
The director leaned back in his chair, "I see Jorge. Very well let's forward with it and get some more details ASAP."
"Of course director."
1915 Election Primer
Parties of the Left
Partido dos Trabalhadores e dos Camponeses, PTC: A hard left party of Brazil with strong communist overtones. Last election saw the PTC ejected from control of the Brazilian Provincial Parliament and combined with voting splitting between it and the PSOI saw a far weaker result than was hopped for. The PTC leadership intends to retake control of Rio de Janeiro and defeat interlopers from the PSOI.
Partido Socialista Obrero Iberia, PSOI: One of the oldest parties from the old Kingdom of Spain. Founded in 1879 as the Partido Socialista Obrero Español. The PSOI faced an unexpected bruising fight with the Brazilian based PTC instead of a hoped for alliance. In the years since relations between the two socialist parties have continued to worsen. The PSOI will directly challenge the PTC from the start across all of Iberia.
Partido Comunista de Ibéria, PCI: An umbrella for the various communist organizations that wants a communist state across all of Iberia. As become the pattern it is expected that the Emperor will ban the party from the polls and the communist will attempt to disrupt the elections. The expected result being to give an excuse for the PNS to continue to use heavy handed methods to keep control of Portugal.
Center Parties
Unión de Centro Democrático, UCD: With little ideology and a few votes last election saw a crushing defeat in the 1910 polls. Matters haven't much improved and a number of defections have occurred to the CCA. Few expect much of the UCD this year.
Confederación de Cristiano Autónomas, CCA: The largest party in Iberia a coalition of various small Christian parties united in 1910 and then catapulted to leadership in the Cortes and two thirds of the provincial parliaments. The CCA is working to expand its already strong power base. A number of veterans of the Balkan War are running for office.
Parties of the Right
Partido Ibéria, PI: The former Carlist Party is attempting unseat the PNS as the lead conservative party of Iberia. The PI is attempting to sow decent by focusing on the "corruption" of the PNS.
Partido Nacional-Sindicalista, PNS: The Blue Army of Iberia is currently the second strongest political party and has achieved what is hoped to be a major political coup as the UDCyL has agreed to merge with the PNS. To the left the party is a collection of rich strongmen that hire goons to break up political activity by the workers and farmers. The PNS will continue to focus on nationalist rallies and since the Balkan War the PNS has added Muslims to Communists as natural enemies of Iberia. The PNS has coasted to victory in the provincial elections of Portugal in 1907 and 1910. That the PNS has a habit of using their status as auxiliary police in Portugal to round up communists and anyone else that gets in their way no doubt has played a roll. With the addition of the UDCyL the PNS hopes to achieve victory across Iberia.
Other Parties
Partido Autónomas, PA: An umbrella organization for the various regional autonomy and anti federal power parties and organizations. Won control of the Philippines provincial parliament in the 1910 election and looks to expand on that victory. The PA looks to broaden its apply by focusing on Regional Rights vs. the central government in Madrid.
Partido de Pilipinas Autónomas, PPA: A party that advocates independence for the Philippines but was banned last election has been weakened by the rise of the PA and its control of the Philippines Provincial Parliament. As a result the PPA's rhetoric has turned even more incendiary and the Emperor has already banned the PPA for the 1915 elections.
Defunct Parties
Unió Democràtica de Castilla y León, UDCyL: A right wing party regional party focused on the Spanish Successor kingdom that was created following the civil war. While rabidly anti communist and pro church it is also if not anti Monarchist anti Carlist. Supporters of the pragmatic succession tradition for the Spanish / Iberian crown. The party's goal is to take control of Spanish regional parliament. Has agreed to merge with the PNS.
1910 Election Results
........Canarias..Brazil..Philippines..Portugal...Puerto Rico..Spain......National Total
PTC.....0.........8.......1............1..........0............4..........14
PSOI....0.........4.......3............1..........0............8..........16
PCI.....B.........B.......B............B..........B............B..........BANNED
UCD.....0.........4.......0............0..........0............5..........9
CCA.....1.........12......2............2..........2............10.........29
PI......0.........4.......3............1..........0............8..........16
PNS.....0.........8.......1............7..........0............2..........18
PA......0.........0.......4............0..........0............1..........5
PPA.....B.........B.......B............B..........B............B..........BANNED
UDCyL...0.........0.......0............0..........0............2..........2
Seats in Parliment
Prov T..1.........40......14...........12.........2............40.0.......108
Party...Seats.Provincial Parliments major party
CCA.....29....Canarias, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Spain
PNS.....18....Portugal
PI......16....
PSOI....16....
PTC.....14....
UCD.....9.....
PA......5.....Philippines
UDCyL...2.....
PCI.....BANNED
PPA.....BANNED
Election fever looms again...
Bavaria would favor the CCA, the CCA won, all is rosy
An Estate outside of Madrid
Don Roberto
Don Carlos
General Manuel (ret.)
Roberto – "Why should we care if the Castilian's joined the Blue coats? So we see some street entertainment as they class with the unions and some lazy drones. The bull fights have been boring of late."
Carlos – "While the UDCyL was no friend of the communists they were also not friends of the Carlists. Recall that they were supporters of the pragmatic succession tradition for the crown in the Spanish Kingdom."
Roberto- "They kissed Emperor Carlos' ring once he took the crown and re-unified the nation."
Carlos- "What choice did they have?"
A nod from Roberto and a thoughtful look at the other man present who despite his current dress was clearly a military man... if a retired one.
Roberto- "General what do you make of the latest turn of events."
General Manuel- "I don't much care for the Blue Coat's pretentions. If all it took to make a soldier was to march in a straight line Spain would have ruled the world long ago. Still they have numbers and a number of former soldiers are in their organization." The general paused with a harsh smile spreading across the rugged face. "Mostly noble and or rich fools that I was able to drum out of the service or at least stall their advancement enough to get them to retire, but they do have a few competent men."
Carlos merely nodded but Roberto looked alarmed.
Roberto- "You don't suggest that they might attempt a coup or revolt General?"
General Manuel- "I very much doubt it but they have made clear their first loyalty is to Iberia or at least their vision of it and the monarchy is much lower on their list of loyalties."
Roberto- "What will they do if they win here in Spain let alone the Empire at large?"
Carlos- "Press for the setup they have in Portugal of course but so far that hasn't happened in Brazil let alone here."
Roberto- "Still they could expand and they manage to out poll the CCA..."
The General sorted by Carlos responded – "The good thing is the socialists will not work with them at all, either of the two parties. That would leave us and the other center party assuming they get themselves organized at all that is."
Roberto- "Our leadership in Brazil refused to work with them after the 1910 elections because of their demands. So no one would join with them in a government then. So it would fall to us or your people to form a government then Carlos."
General Manuel, "That will work this year certainly but once it is clear that no one will work with them they might change tactics. They are pig headed thugs but not stupid."
Roberto- "Yes I can see that but we will have to deal with whatever that change is when it occurs. Thank you General and Carlos I will talk to my fellows. For now though the Partido Nacional-Sindicalista is to be frozen out."
July News
With reports received of a strange warship in the Straits of Gibralter 5th cruiser squadron and 2nd Torpedo Boat Destroyer Division leaves Cartagena to be begin a sweap of Western Mediterranean; nothing is found.
October News
With word of disturbances received in Bharat and the peace apparently holding in the East Africa conflict the 8th Cruiser Squadron made up of HIIMS Apra and HIIMS Colonia is ordered to Bombay to recover any Iberian Civilians wishing to be removed.
Backroom of a Union Hall in the industrial district of Rio de Janeiro
Ricardo - Partido Socialista Obrero Iberia
Felipe - Partido dos Trabalhadores e dos Camponeses
Estefan - Partido Comunista de Ibéria
"So Ricardo your still people aren't going to own up break the deal back in 1910." Said the delegate of the Brazilian Socialists to the Spanish Socialist fresh in from Madrid.
The experienced political organizer gave the Brazilian a measuring glance up and down before he spoke, "Felipe I don't know what happened five years ago. All I know is the order didn't come from..."
"Blah, blah, blah..." interrupted Felipe, "More of the same bullshit in other words why did you even bother to waste your time in coming over here if you had nothing new to say?'
Suppressing the strong urge to pummel the face of the Brazilian sitting across from him Ricardo started to speak again, "I was going to say 'the order didn't come from us.' But that doesn't matter."
"Doesn't matter!?!"
The Spaniard pressed on, "That's right it doesn't matter. What does matter is this battle isn't going to help either of the socialist parties or the workers and it will be years before one of us comes out on top of the other."
Speaking for first time the third person present spoke up, "Exactly comrades only the Capitalists, Monarchists and their lackeys gain because of our divisions. If the revolution is to be restored we need to work together."
The Brazilian gave a slight nod at Estefan's statement while Ricardo said nothing.
"Till the people's political conciseness is brought back to a sufficient level we will not be able to sweep away the restored Ancien Régime and bring back the glory that was the people's revolution." Said the little would be revolutionary.
Ricardo suppressed the urge to pound the communists, the world was filled with lots of foolish people and none were more foolish than the deranged communists with their pipe dreams of a new red revolution. Ricardo recalled the bitter fighting and chaos that resulted from that back home and had no wish to go through that again and more importantly neither did the rest of Iberia. Still if he could put up with the Brazilian he could put up with the RED; forcing a smile on his face Ricardo said, "Yes a first step to that is for us to put aside the mistakes of the past so we move forward... Together."
"That would be nice if we... if we could trust you which you and those that came before have given us no reason to do so." Said the Brazilian in a flat voice filled with venom.
At last letting out a sigh Ricardo then asked, "So you want the CCA, Conservatives and or the Blue Coats to remain on top?"
"They will misstep and then our time will come." Answered the Brazilian.
Standing up dramatically and then pounding the table the revolutionary exclaimed, "Exactly comrades the day will come when its time to once more man the barricades and then we can shot all the oppressors, starting with the capitalists and the priests."
Shaking his head at this point Ricardo stated, "That day is going to be a long time coming, a very long time coming unless we can work together. The Blue Coats are expanding and the CCA is showing no signs of weakness. While we are wasting our strength on socialist infighting."
"Yes our Eastern Comrade is correct our true enemies are the fat cats. We need to work together but not to win ballets. That just means we are working within the oppressors system, one that is fixed against us we should take to the streets, if your people would join the Comunista in raising the Red Flag we could sweep them all away tomorrow."
The Brazilian started to say something but before he could get anything out Ricardo said, "I am sharing a room with a pair of lunatics; hell is going to freeze over before we would have chance of armed revolt. Besides it being treason and getting us shot all it would do is increase the popularity of the Portuguese Fascists."
"Its only treason to work against ones class... COMARADE. Which also has it own price." Said the revolutionary in a deadly tone.
With an equally deadly tone Ricardo responded with, "Are you actually threatening me?" *LAUGH* "All your people have managed to do is get yourselves locked up for the last ten years and print bombastic posters. Fine live in your fantasy world; I am on the next boat back to Europe."
As Ricardo left the room the other two spoke quietly to each other.
Iberian Chagos
A recently erected 500 foot tall tower on the island received a message from near by Neue Heligoland. It was quickly decoded then the stations 500 kW radio was set to its highest wavelength and the message was resent.
Off the Horn of Africa "Pizarro" received the message. Vice-Almirante Juan de Balmaseda informed his second in command on Cristóbal Colón that he was now in command of the task force. Then Pizarro and her sister ship "Balboa" turned east and began the 1,600 mile voyage towards Bombay and would arrive in just under 5 days; the 26th.
The next day the station on transmitted another message inquiring of Iberian shipping in the Indian Ocean to report their location and cargo.
Palace in Madrid
Meeting of Council of State
November 20th, 1915
Emperor, HIRH Jamie
Prime Minister of Iberia, Don Felipe González y Márquez
Foreign Minister, Diogo Freitas do Amaral
Finance Minister, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
Head of the Army, General de Ejército Julio Macías y Santander
Head of the Navy, Almirante Antonio Bermejo
"Admiral what the hell is going on over there?" The Emperor with a look of pure confusing asked the chief of his navy.
The Iberian fleet commander handed over the photo's to the emperor and then answered, "These came back on the Colonia, they were taken by the Bombay police and combined with what the police chief told us paints a very ugly picture."
The emperor a man who had scene combat himself during the civil war looked at several of the photo's with clear disgust on his face and then closed the folder and handed it to others to look at. The civilians present were sickened and da Silva in particular looked like he was about to become ill. General Santander looked over the pictures and shook his head, "This is more gruesome than incidents I saw in the Balkan Wars or reports on what went on in Greece. What the Greeks did when they would go into a Muslim quarter or vice versa; sometimes they would take their time with their victims... Did they really cut the hearts out of people Admiral and what did they do to their faces?"
The admiral looked at the report in front of him again, "Just the priests it seams but all the victims it appears were missing their eyes. The defector believes it was some type of pagan sacrifice to some local goddess called Kaaly no... Kali. The former police chief himself is unsure as this appears to have been the work of what he called a cult and this was way out of their normal pattern of operation."
The Prime Minister shook his head, "What can you tell us about these Thuggee I believe you said they are called?"
The Admiral nodded, "That's correct a type of local bandit we have been informed but they have this Kali as their patron goddess. When they kill they are noted for the use of pick axes and for strangling; also for their brutality and ruthlessness. The police chief... Kumar said that the Thuggee are involved with a great deal of crime in Bharat and neighboring areas but their normal motivation he said is monetary."
The emperor leaned back in his chair, "Do Amaral what else can you tell us about this?"
The foreign minister was clearly distracted by the pictures and it took a few moments for him to find his voice. "The Bharat government is demanding we return the defector and his family. They are sticking to their story that this was all his and the rest of the local governments fault. Brandenburg and the Baltic's have their colonies on alert for disturbances while we are getting word of something going on in the French holding at Calcutta details are vague and Paris says its minor. The Mughals and Bengal came down hard on their own protestors. Italy, Gran Columbia, Peru, Austria have all sent ships to retrieve their citizens. The Italians have elected to take everyone at the docks in Bombay it appears. No word of additional major demonstrations."
The Prime Minister spoke up, "What about the other Great Powers? The Confederates, Rohan, the Dutch, Orange and don't the Russians have some type of connection to Bharat? Are any of them doing anything?"
Da Silva shook his head, "Of course we have very little information on the Dutch and that's all second hand from the Austrian Diplomatic Service or the other members of the Southern Cross. Still it appears they are doing nothing, ditto for the rest."
A hard look came across the Emperors face, "So they don't care that some of their citizens might have been killed in all of this?" The diplomat merely shrugged in response. The Emperor drummed his fingers on the table, "We aren't going to return this... Kumar or his family . Now what can we do about this?" While asking the question the Emperor looked right at his two military chiefs.
The pair glanced at one another before the admiral answered, "To be honest your majesty not much. Austria offered to land over 10,000 troops and go looking for Hindu temples to burn. Reports from Bombay show the Italians are also upset. The problem is Bharat is a large place, it has a population of over a hundred million people we believe and with an army of around a million troops. Their navy is 4th rate junk that we could blow of the water with what's in the Indian Ocean keeping an eye on the New Zion business and of course looking for T.A.G. The army is something else even if we could seize a port I don't see how we could hold it and just seizing port would be difficult as the larger ones have forts to protect them. Best we could do is 'butcher and bolt.'"
The Prime Minister looked confused at the term but the General filled in the details, "Butcher and Bolt as in we attack, kill anything that moves, blow up what doesn't move and then run for it."
The Prime Minister and Foreign Minister traded looks of concern before the Prime Minister spoke, "I agree that these are horrific acts but doing what the General describes could present problems. Recall the trouble our involvement in the Balkan Wars presented?"
The Emperor clearly annoyed bit off quickly, "So what DO you suggest we do Don Felipe?"
The Prime Minister answered quickly, "Get our people out of Bharat and warn others not to go there. Talk to the other interested powers and see what they are willing to do. While our own actions are limited collective actions might be more... varied than nothing or a glorified raid."
Admiral Bermejo added, "We also need more information I would like to order other ships to make port calls in Bharat and the rest of the region to look around. It looks like the New Zion issue is stable for now at any rate so we can release the ships to return to their home stations or for this"
The Emperor was clearly unhappy but nodded agreement, "Very well Admiral see to it. Don Felipe invite the various ambassadors to a meeting at the palace something well after lunch but before dinner I think and I would like to talk to them personally. Also invite the Papal Nuncio to attend the meeting. Lastly Da Silva I want a report on the region how does it affect us and see if any of the banking or merchant houses have any more information."
The finance minister who had been silent throughout the meeting nodded.
Election Results 1915
........Canarias..Brazil..Philippines..Portugal...Puerto Rico..Spain......National Total...Change
PTC.....0.........10......0............0..........0............3..........13...............-1
PSOI....0.........2.......3............1..........0............9..........15...............-1
PCI.....B.........B.......B............B..........B............B..........BANNED...........NA
UCD.....0.........1.......0............0..........0............3..........4................-5
CCA.....1.........13......2............2..........2............11.........31...............+2
PI......0.........5.......3............1..........0............8..........17...............+1
PNS.....0.........9.......1............8..........0............5..........23...............+5
PA......0.........0.......5............0..........0............1..........6................+1
PPA.....B.........B.......B............B..........B............B..........BANNED...........NA
Seats in Parliment
Prov T..1.........40......14...........12.........2............40.0.......109
Party...Seats.Provincial Parliments major party
CCA.....31....Canarias, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Spain
PNS.....23....Portugal
PI......17....
PSOI....15....
PTC.....13....
PA......6.....Philippines
UCD.....4.....
PCI.....BANNED
PPA.....BANNED
Gran Colombia would be satisfied with those results...
News 1916
Military News
January 5th
With the East Africa War full resolved and matters stable in Bharat the 3rd Cruiser Squadron made of the Henrique o Navegador and Cristóbal Colón leave the Indian Ocean for European Iberian for a mid life refit and overhaul.
Political News
Despite the election being resolved well over a month ago a new government still hasn't been announced. The constitution provides no deadline but many are wondering what to make of the delay. Rumors hold that there is some problem with making a deal with the Partido Nacional-Sindicalista or rather no deal has been offered and the Confederación de Cristiano Autónomas and Partido Ibéria lack enough votes to form a government by themselves. Which leaves either the parties of the left or both minor parties are needed to get the needed 55 votes.
Palace in Madrid
Meeting of Council of State
April 20th
Emperor, HIRH Jamie
Prime Minister of Iberia, Don Felipe González y Márquez
Foreign Minister, Diogo Freitas do Amaral
Head of the Army, General de Ejército Julio Macías y Santander
Head of the Navy, Almirante Antonio Bermejo
The Emperor tapped his fingers on the polished oak table, "So where do things stand with the French?"
Da Silver looked up from his notes, "Things could be better you of course talked to the Ambassador on the 17th majesty and I will be traveling to Paris to explain further to the French. For now that should have matters returned to something like normal."
The Emperor nodded and then opened his own letter, "As you all know I have been trying to setup talks through my father inlaw the King of Bavaria with the Dutch. Our ambassador in Munich informs me the Dutch are only willing to meet us in their territory and by a 2nd level minister."
Don Felipe smiled, "That's excellent we should send a similar ranked minister of course..."
The Emperor cut off the Prime Minister, "I have already told the Bavarians to drop the matter."
The Foreign Minister merely grimaced while the Prime Minister openly frowned, "Majesty that might be a little hasty."
"Don Felipe do you want us to look like we are going crawling to the Dutch? Didn't you spend some time explaining to me that a meeting had to be on neutral ground if for no other reason so we would have witnesses to anything said?" The Emperor Demanded.
*SIGH* The Prime Minister nodded, "Yes but lower level talks we could better disavow if need be."
The Emperor shook his head, "No we have too many other issues to deal with right now and we aren't going to waste capital chasing after phantoms if the Dutch are serious they can meet on neutral ground."
To be continued...
José Aguilera y Montilla; Iberian Envoy
Vicente Herrera; Iberian Minister Resident in Burma
June 2nd, 1916 The Iberian 8th Cruiser Squadron enters Rangoon; the two ships HIIMAS Apra and HIIMS Colonia returning from the Philippines after their hulls were cleaned and a general maintenance following their long cruise in the Indian Ocean earlier this year. The cruisers have return to monitor the fragile peace in the region and to support a diplomatic mission to the government of King Thibaw Min.
Iberian Diplomatic Mission in Rangoon
Minister Herrera sat in a wicker chair and fanned himself while reading the instructions that José Aguilera y Montilla brought with him. As Herrera read a page he would transfer it to his left hand and used it as a fan to attempt to cool himself. "So Mr. Aguilera home has sent you here to work out some type of friendship treaty with Burma too how did the Minister in Madrid put it... Ah yes to 'Advance Iberian Commercial, Diplomatic and Military interests by strengthening ties with Burma.'"
Across the table José Aguilera nodded and then said, "That is correct and I trust I can count on your full support?"
Minister Herrera pored himself a drink as he answered, "Of course, of course you are senior as long as you are on this mission of yours. How may I be of help?"
José Aguilera smiled and asked, "I need you to get me into a meeting with a senior minister and not going through things layer by layer."
After taking a sip from the glass Herrera resumed fanning himself as he answered, "That is going to be a bit a problem Mr. Aguilera. It might have escaped Madrid's notice but we don't have a huge amount of influence here and second the King is dying."
Aguilera shrugged and responded, "From what I have read he has been dying for the past 10 years but he still managed to have another child... another daughter I believe last year. What makes you think things are different now?"
"Another daughter is the key part, the King has no living sons and dynastic and political alliances are being made. If the kings time isn't about to run out people are planning like it is; that much is certain." The resident replied.
Leaning forward Aguilera asked, "I was aware in general terms that the locals are playing a game of thrones. The leading candidate was Ka Naung I thought and he has an impressive power base."
Herrera paused in his fanning and leaned back into the chair, which creaked at the movement, "The Prince is powerful, he is a great grandson of King Tharrawaddy Min and his grand father was Crown Prince Ka Naung, the current prince is named for his grandfather by the way, the elder prince was assassinated in a bit of bloody palace intrigue. The Prince is wealthy owning a number of plantations, gem mines and interests in railroads, has a rather impressive political following in the capital and of course as a general in the army. So he has a great number of bayonets if it comes to that."
"But?"
"But the prince has made his share of enemies. He traveled a great deal as a young man and even got a degree through correspondence courses from a University in France. He has brought in foreign tutors for his own children and wants reforms to modernize the nation. More railroads, establishment of modern industry, some political reforms but mostly economic and military. Reforms and updating of the kingdoms laws and government structure. His desires have annoyed a number of traditionalists. They see him as a threat to the established order."
Aguilera leaned forward and asked, "So who is the opposition to Prince Ka Naung?"
The resident minister gave a passive shrug, "Anyone of a half dozen other royals including some not in line to inherit, recall that palace intrigue that killed Ka Naung's name sake?" With a nod from his visitor Herrera continued on. "Well King Tharrawaddy Min was attempting to clear up the succession back in 1866, he had declared Ka Naung's name sake heir in 1853 but in '66 he cut a number of his other sons, brothers and nephews out of line all together. Some reacted poorly attempted a coup and killed Crown Prince Naung and number of others before it was put down. Since then the last two kings haven't named a Crown Prince till on their death beds and Thibaw has followed suit. So we have those who want the throne for themselves and those who fear a Ka Naung reign I understand are attempting to influence the king by ideally getting him to exile Ka Naung or at least name some one different. You also have the wives and daughters peddling influence to the highest bidder."
Aguilera slowly nodded, "I see the government itself is sounds like its fairly districted. You mentioned wives and daughters? I take it they have influence beyond the succession."
Herrera gave another of his shrugs and resumed fanning himself once more, "No where near as much as they would like there are too many of them for one and they fight each other so they aren't very effective out side of the palace. The permanent bureaucracy is running things but many of them don't care for Ka Naung or his ideas on modernizing the government. The bureaucracy is distracted by the succession but if there an active player in it or not I don't know. So yes they are unlikely to have the time or inclination to deal with your mission."
Aguilera gave his own shrug, "That's fine lets just cut to chase. Can you setup a meeting with Prince Ka Naung?"
To be continued...
June 5th Pegu (Bago), Burma
"...In 1757 King Alaungpaya re-conquered this city, sacked it and in the process virtually destroyed it. It wasn't till the reign of King Bodawpaya over 30 years later that the city was restored but the river had shifted and left it largely land locked..." Prince Ka Naung continued on with his impromptu history lesson for his visitors and at the same time avoided talking about anything of consequence.
At last an opening appeared for the Iberian envoy. "...So the city had never regained its former standing but in the last decade things have changed. Income from the rice fields, sugarcane and more recently petroleum have given great wealth and allowed something of a renaissance for the city."
Jumping into the pause José Aguilera said, "A renaissance that could be expanded and not to just this one city Highness with the correct economic backing to allow additional investment. Burma already exports vast amounts of rice, tropical woods and some oil but there are other crops that could be cultivated such as cotton, rubber and tobacco to expand and diversify your economy. Plus your oil industry and exports could be expanded more..."
"Increasing the wealth of the Kingdom is a good course to be followed Mr. Aguilera but it has to be done in the right way. Soon we will arrive at the Shwethalyaung Buddha the largest statue of Buddha in Burma and one of the largest in the world..." The prince answered and then turned the topic back to the wonders of city.
June 9th, Pegu (Bago), Burma
José Aguilera was becoming frustrated he had been talking to the prince for several days now but had made little headway. While he had been able to have conversations in general he couldn't get the prince into specifics. Today would no doubt be more of the same when his thoughts were interupted by his aid, "Minister! I have a message from Resident Herrera in Rangoon!"
"Something from Madrid?" Aguilera asked.
"No Minister there was some type of incident between the Burmese Army and the Republican Chinese Army. Word just came in today from the highlands in the north."
Aguilera stood up at once, "I need to meet the Prince at once..."
A short time later in a private room.
"Highness I understand there has been an incident between your nations army and the Republican Chinese Army. If I might ask what has happened?" Aguilera asked in his most calm and reasonable voice.
The prince for the first time looked distracted and paused before replying, "It's not clear Mr. Aguilera but it appears that Chinese troops near the border were killed. Mostly like smugglers and other criminals that operate in the highlands between our two countries. Since the split-up of the Middle Kingdom they have been very active. After that incident the Chinese have started to shoot anything and in some cases crossing the border. Of course this is all several days out of date and so I need to return to Palace and speak to the King. This could get out of hand quickly..."
"I am sure my government will do what it can to help to mitigate this misunderstanding Highness. If possible I would like to go with you and do what I can to help."
The prince gave a brief nod...
To be continued...
June 10th, Rangoon
The trip on the train back to Rangoon had been quick, a few hours but productive one for José Aguilera. He had 20 minutes alone with the prince to talk about the situation. The most worrisome was the Government the King it seems was having a bad time and wasn't providing any direction and the government while not exactly frozen wasn't reacting with the vigor it should. Yes they mobilized the army and screamed to Beijing for help but the diminished Middle Kingdom appeared to have turned inward and was ignoring the situation. The prince had received a very complete briefing from his people on the way in and he had been allowed to stay.
"Highness we will arrive at the city central station in 10 minutes." A nameless functionary said.
The prince nodded and dismissed the functionary. One of the princess aids glanced at the Iberian but then spoke, "Highness you need to speak to the king as soon as possible and get him to name you the heir in fact; we need strong leadership. Leadership that the king simply cannot or will not provide; the future of the Kingdom is at stake here."
The Prince spoke, "Yes the future of the Kingdom is at stake but a misstep will also doom us; but yes anything starts with the King. I shall meet my cousin as soon as possible." Turning to the Iberian, "Mr. Aguilera contact your government and see if they are willing to mediate."
"Of course Highness but it might take a little time to get an answer." The Iberian Diplomat replied.
Iberian Residence
Vicente Herrera, "Madrid wants to know what if any progress you have made with Burma Aguilera?"
José Aguilera moved his hand through his hair, "Some... The Prince is going to talk to the king and see what type of resolve the government has. Some of his aids were openly suggesting that he should seize the throne to provide unity and strong leadership."
Herrera looked horrified, "What did you say to that? Worse did you suggest that he should?"
Aguilera gave a weak wave of his hand, "Please... I am not a total fool. No I said nothing and the prince won't do it I suspect unless he feels there is no other choice. The prince wants to know if Iberia will mediate the dispute?"
Herrera shrugged, "We have had so much luck with such moves in the past. Recall how the talks between the Netherlands and New Switzerland worked out?"
"I was stationed in the Netherlands before that debacle you know. I acted as Chargé d'affaires several times... Amsterdam always was a lovely city I visited it as often as I could. It's our best move it gets us involved and if we can some how manage to avoid the war that's the opening I need. Even if we fail and Madrid is willing we will be well placed to help Burma attempt to defend themselves."
The Iberian Resident shook his head, "Aguilera I can respect a man that plans for the future but what chance do you think Burma has to hold off the RRC long term?"
Aguilera snorted before he answered, "By themselves? None what so ever. At the same time any aid we provide them be all the more valuable."
Herrera, "And the RRC what do you think they will make of such aid?"
The envoy paused and then counted off with his fingers, "First of all the RRC isn't my problem that's for the minister back in Madrid to worry about. Second we don't have full relations with them anyways. That tells us what Madrid thinks of the RRC right there. Third standing up to the RRC and pissing them off just makes us look all the better to the locals."
"Assuming the locals aren't defeated or worse conquered."
"Assuming they aren't defeated or worse conquered. I have a letter to draft for the Foreign Minister and then to meet with the Prince again."
Several Hours later
"Highness how did your meeting go with the King?"
"It went well Mr. Aguilera, very well. I told him of your offer to try to get your government to aid us." The prince replied.
"It was the least I could do. Have you learned more about what happened?" The Iberian diplomat asked.
The prince answered casually. "Oh yes Mr. Aguilera China claims we killed several hundred troops of theirs in the middle of the night."
"I see. It's safe to assume that's not the case?"
"You assume correctly Mr. Aguilera. The area where the attack occurred his difficult to reach to say the least. That we some how infiltrated the thousands of troops it would have taken to achieve this attack this time of year gives us a great deal of credit I suppose. Oh its certainly possible to slip groups of fairly large size through the highlands; after all its where the smugglers like to operate from. But several thousand troops, their weapons and supplies?!? I think not."
The Iberian paused to consider what he had been told, "I see Your Highness, thank you. But what of the war? There was an issue of leadership."
"My cousin Shan Min, the Prince of Shan, and I will be holding command."
"Two commanders Highness? That doesn't sound... efficient." The Iberian asked carefully.
"No it isn't but it's not as bad as it seams. My cousin Shan Min will command the northeast near Chinese border near his province of Shan. While I hold command in the Irawaddy, Rangoon and the rest. The Irrawaddy Valley is the most likely invasion route. The Salween Valley in Shan is an unlikely choice. There has been talk of building a road from Northern Burma to China from time to time off the Irawaddy headwaters but it never goes anywplace because of the massive cost."
To be continued...
See Burma Thread for results of Iberia Attempt to Meditate
Edited to reflect moderator input
"Minister a representative of the Burmese government would like to speak with you." A nameless functionary informed Vicente Herrera the Iberian Minister Resident in Burma.
Herrera already suffering from the wet heat looked even more uncomfortable at the announcement, "He wants to speak to me and not the envoy?"
"That is correct minister, yourself."
Herrera took a deep drink from his glass and waved the servant with the fan away. The servant went outside and started to pull on a rope outside connected to a fan hanging from the ceiling. "Send him in at once."
The functionary announcement the Burmese representative, "Minister without portfolio Nyan Win."
Herrera stood up from his chair, "Minister Win what can I do for you today?"
Nyan Win gave a slight nod, "I have come to ask if there is a reply to our request on the thoughts of your government on the RRC demand that we stand down before they do."
Herrera wanting to be seated but could not do so before his guest asked, "Of course Minister why don't you take a seat." As soon as Win nodded his agreement Herrera's own chair creaked as he sat back down. "I do not have a reply but I do have some other information. I can tell you Minister that my government has contacted a number of nations about the plight of Burma. We believe that Italy and France will be making arrangements to hire the Kondor Legion for the defense of Burma. Iberia can't take credit for that as it seams that Rome is most annoyed with the Republic of China and sees this as a chance voice their ire in unmistakable terms. Besides the aid that Iberia will be providing Vienna has an offer for Burma." Pausing to take a sip from his glass Herrera then continued, "Vienna would like to rest the Auslaender Freiwilliger Legion that was fighting in Calcutta and would request if Burma would be willing to host them? They could stay with the Iberian troops that will be coming to look after my governments interests. Also it's strongly suspected that China has chemical weapon and Vienna will be offering 500,000 gas masks to Burma."
The Burmese replied, "I will take this to my government and I can hope for a reply shortly on the other matter Resident?"
Herrera nodded, "Very soon I should think Minister Win."
To Be continued...
Minister Win didn't take long to return with the government's response. Herrera's aid shows him in again, and he takes a seat, but declines the offer of a drink.
Wasting no time, he said "Senor Herrera, we very much appreciate both the needs of the Auslaender Freiwilliger Legion, and that Austria is a friend of Iberia's, and therefore a very likely friend of Burma in this time of crisis."
He paused for a moment before continuing.
"However, on consulting the military experts, we wonder if Rangoon isn't already becoming too crowded, with the refugees, the Burmese army, and now Iberian troops and the Kondor legion planning to land their. Instead, might we suggest the Auslaender Freiwilliger Legion move to Sittwe to rest? We believe there will be ample room and resources for their needs there, and frankly, we're hoping they might serve as some deterrent to Bharat trying to take advantage of our situation with agression of their own."
July 23rd, 1916
By the order of the Governor General in the name of his Most Catholic Majesty Jaime I, Emperor of Iberia, general Mobilization is declared in the territory of the Philippines.
Palace in Madrid
Meeting of Council of State
July, 1916
Emperor, HIRH Jamie
Prime Minister of Iberia, Don Felipe González y Márquez
Foreign Minister, Diogo Freitas do Amaral
Head of the Army, General de Ejército Julio Macías y Santander
Head of the Navy, Almirante Antonio Bermejo
"I understand that a deal has been worked out Do Amaral?" The Emperor asked.
"Yes Majesty the Dutch worked out a deal and while it's not perfect its most of what we are looking for." The foreign minister answered.
Don Felipe sipped his cup of coffee and then asked, "So are you going to tell us the details?"
The Foreign Minister passed out copies of two texts, "One is for Burma and one is for us. Now as I said they aren't perfect documents."
Those present looked over the documents for a few minutes with Don Felipe speaking up first of all. "The Burmese agreed to number nine? It virtually makes Chinese in Burma have extraterritoriality and that opens the door for China to go back whenever they feel like."
Emperor Jamie tapped the second shorter document, "Also this 'we recognizes sovereignty and all the borders of the Reformist Republic of China.' This is a problem as we didn't do this to start with. Correct me if I am wrong here but I recall after talks with the Middle Kingdom our official stance was that the RRC was no more than rebellious provinces of the Middle Kingdom."
Do Amaral shrugged, "Burma it appears is willing to accept the clause as part of the price for peace. As to us and the RRC we are working on the language to be something more along the lines of current borders. Also I exchanged some messages with my Hapsburg counter part; they don't much care for it either. I suspect what we do is we and the Hapsburgs send a note to Beijing explaining this is diplomatic necessity and when the day comes for them to reclaim the south we will do nothing to oppose it."
The emperor tapped his fingers, "Don Felipe your thoughts?"
"As Do Amaral noted it's not perfect but its good enough Majesty." The Prime Minister answered.
Giving a nod of is head and then the Emperor turned towards the two uniformed men, "Almirante and General what say you two?"
"Anything that avoids a five to ten year blood bath half a world away and gets us most of what we want I am favor of Majesty." The head of the army said flatly.
Almirante Antonio Bermejo was looking at the document still, "I am just a sailor but I can't help think that a few years from now we are going to find ourselves here again. Also what about that mission the envoy was sent off on?"
The Prime Minister glanced at the Foreign Minister, "As soon as the talks in the East Indies are done he picks up right were he left off. Also I think we should see about offering some items to Burma. This should have the effect of sweetening the deal so to speak." The foreign minister nodded as the prime minister spoke.
Do Amaral "Yes we give them the munitions no matter what for example. General they aren't of any use to use if I am correct?"
"That's correct Minister Burma like much of the non industrialized world is equipped along French lines so it's all different calibers."
"Very good I thought as much General. So we just give them the munitions and at the same time we offer to upgrade their army. We send a training mission with diplomatic credentials so that they side step the treaty restrictions on foreigner military and or have the Burmese go to the Philippines." The Foreign Minister said.
The Emperor nodded his head, "Very well I would like to see a draft of the note for the Middle Kingdom and move quickly on the follow on talks with Burma. Almirante and General inform our forces to fire only in defense I don't want an incident but till the deal is signed we don't drop our defences either."
QuoteSome time after the treaty is concluded...
"Your Highness, Minister I am pleased that we are meeting under better circumstances. I understand an agreement has been worked out with the Republican Chinese." Mr. Aguilera asked despite already knowing the answer, after all one had to follow the forms.
Minister Win replied with, "That is correct Excellency we have an agreement in place as I believe does your own government."
The ambassador as the permanent representative of Iberia replied, "That is my understanding Minister we are awaiting for your own agreement to be finalized before moving forward with our own." Herrera then took a long drink from his glass.
Prince Ka Naung then said, "My cousin has told me that he is most grateful for the friendship and help shown by Iberia and its allies to Burma in its time of need."
The two Iberian diplomats gave a slight nod in acknowledgement before Mr. Aguilera replied, "We will certainly pass the kings thanks along to Madrid and Emperor Jaime."
The Prince then went on with, "Also I have talked to my cousin about your governments commercial interests in Burma Mr. Aguilera. So the idea of allowing investment in our Oil resources is workable. The recent crises has shown that Burma needs friends and an investment agreement could help bind such a friendship."
Aguilera smiled, "That is very true Highness and there is the possibility of other areas of cooperation between our two nations."
Minister Win and the Prince said nothing and waited. After a moment Mr. Aguilera asked, "I would like someone to join us, Capitán de Navío Leopoldo of HIIMAS Apra he could explain a great deal of what I am talking about."
"Of course Mr. Aguilera."
The Iberian naval officer came in and was seated. The prince then asked, "So Captain Mr. Aguilera says you have some information on how Burma and Iberia could cooperate in other that commercial ways; please explain."
"Highness... I have spent some time in the Indian ocean of late as you well know and because of the crises I had been studying Burma's ports. In particular Akyab on the Arakan coast caught my eye..."
QuoteThe prince nodded, "Yes it's also known as Sittwe and it's a naval base for our navy."
The Iberian officer nodded, "Yes Highness the port is small and its facilities are to be honest minimal but it does have a number of advantages. First is location it's right on the Bay of Bengal unlike Rangoon which is inland and off the Andaman Sea so it has better access. This makes it better placed to project power into the Bay of Bengal. The down side is the area is underdeveloped and isolated from the rest of the country with only primitive roads and river traffic as means of connection."
Minister Win folded his hands, "Everything you say is true Captain and I take it that Sittwe is to be this other area of cooperation between Burma and Iberia?"
Aguilera smiled and nodded, "That's correct Minister. It would be prohibitively expensive for your nation to take advantage of the location but Iberia has greater resources."
Win leaned back into his chair, "True Mr. Aguilera and I take it that Iberia would like to take advantage of this location for itself. Which presents some problems Mr. Aguilera."
The Iberian diplomat replied with, "The new peace treaty."
Win nodded as he said, "The new peace treaty."
Herrera fanned himself with several papers and interjected, "If I may. There are two possible solutions to the problem here. One Iberia would limit itself to just port calls with the understanding in time of war Iberia would continue to have access despite Burma's own stance."
Win glanced slightly at the Prince who gave a fractional nod and then the minister answered, "That would be workable I believe but you had another idea?"
Herrera put down his collection of papers, "Yes Minister Iberia leases the port and area. Then it becomes Iberian territory and outside the terms of treaty. The treaty has placed no limits on what your nation can do with its own territory Minister."
The Prince leaned forward, "That maybe true Mr. Herrera but the leasing of bits of ones territory is a fairly major step. The rewards would have to be commensurate to such a step; like perhaps dealing with the ports isolation from the rest of the country."
Aguilera again nodded and then asked, "What exactly do you have in mind your Highness?"
The prince pointed at a map of Burma that was already laid out on the table. "As you can see here our main railroad runs north from Rangoon to Mandalay at the Irrawaddy. There is another line out of Rangoon that runs North West to Prome but it's much shorter than other railway. Neither is near Sittwe and that's what Burma would really need to make use of Sittwe as anything other than a regional port it needs to be connected to the North South Railroad."
The Iberian Naval Officer Capitán de Navío Leopoldo suggested, "You are looking for additional supply points up north if you have future problems with the RRC I am guessing. So you really want it to connect here." The captain pointed at the center of the map, Mandalay.
The Prince nodded, "That is correct Captain."
Aguilera paused as he thought over the way the talks had gone, "So you believe you could convince the King to lease the port if we upgrade the port itself and build a railway to connect it to the main line at Mandalay; using this spur line at Myingyan perhaps."
The prince said, "Nothing is sure till I talk to my cousin but your nation has been most helpful to the kingdom and we clearly need friends."
The Iberian envoy while making some notes said, "I will contact my government to ask for instructions about the railroad and for them to approve the language of the oil investment."
The prince stood up and then everyone in the room did, "And I will discuses the agreements with my cousin, Good day gentlemen."
"Good day Your Highness, Minister..."
Quote from: miketr on June 15, 2009, 01:02:57 PM
Herrera put down his collection of papers, "Yes Minister Iberia leases the port and area. Then it becomes Iberian territory and outside the terms of treaty. The treaty has placed no limits on what your nation can do with its own territory Minister."
That is not 100% certain, as the treaty pledges the RRC to guarantee to border and sovereignty of Burma. It could be argued that the clause in question applies not only if Burma is invaded, but also if it willingly gives away land.
Iberia's view point is that the RRC has accepted that Burma is sovereign. If Iberia attacked Burma that would be one thing as article 2 would produce a Casus Belli / Casus foederis. Leasing ones territory except under duress is something else all together. If you take the logic all the way then Burma couldn't accept new diplomatic posts are legations are foreign territory, the Burmese government couldn't sell state assets even to nationals because that would be a reduction of "territory". I any event Logi / RRC are free to take whatever view they want.
In my PoV, this is traitorous action. I'm not sure if I could use the treaty to argue, but I would definitely not be happy about this.
I'm going to argue the same as Korpen.
It can be argued both ways, and if not a major theoretical difference, there is a major practical and legal difference when people start to be transferred along with the territory (as when it is a city of thousands that change hands rather then a small plot in the city).
But It is really down to what sort of message Burma want the send: If they for some reason want to take an antagonistic stance vs. the RRC they would go ahead, If they want to take advantage of the opportunities and perks the treaty with the RRC gives they should at least discuss the thing with the RRC before committing to anything.
Feel free to argue, feel free to restart the war with my navy in the WestPac, feel free to work out a deal once the treaty is published, etc you have options. I am not claiming this is a nice move, only that its in my nations interests.
At any rate you agreed to the treaty you can either stick by it or not. If you are going to use Korpen's view point you are arguing in effect that RRC has veto over the foreign policy of Burma. I obviously don't support that view point.
Quote from: miketr on June 15, 2009, 05:14:13 PM
Feel free to argue, feel free to restart the war with my navy in the WestPac, feel free to work out a deal once the treaty is published, etc you have options. I am not claiming this is a nice move, only that its in my nations interests.
How Iberia acts is not something that I will comment on, it is a PC country after all.
Burma however is a NPC, and that changes things a bit, as a NPC country should act for own best intrest, not as a proxy for someone else.
QuoteAt any rate you agreed to the treaty you can either stick by it or not. If you are going to use Korpen's view point you are arguing in effect that RRC has veto over the foreign policy of Burma. I obviously don't support that view point.
Given how the arguments went during the talks, I must admit the Burmese leasing away territory feels a bit disingenuous.
But I am not saying that the RRC should have a veto on the actions of Burma, I am saying that given the way the talks went and that there is risk of being accused of breaking treaty; Burma should simply talk to the RRC about it. I see no reason why they could quickly reach a mutually satisfying agreement on how to interpret the relevant clauses in this and similar situations.
Quote from: Korpen on June 15, 2009, 05:35:29 PM
Quote from: miketr on June 15, 2009, 05:14:13 PM
Feel free to argue, feel free to restart the war with my navy in the WestPac, feel free to work out a deal once the treaty is published, etc you have options. I am not claiming this is a nice move, only that its in my nations interests.
How Iberia acts is not something that I will comment on, it is a PC country after all.
Burma however is a NPC, and that changes things a bit, as a NPC country should act for own best intrest, not as a proxy for someone else.
This is in their interests; that treaty has opened doors for the RRC to come back down the road and restart the war; from the demands pre talks thats national extinction from the Burmese elites point of view. Burma needs a protector vs. RRC or needs to accept they are going to become its pawns sooner or later. There is no middle ground. If RRC takes the point of view that it has veto over Burma's foreign police I (as Burma) would fight and fight now with Iberian help and its allies in the area. Logi if he long term wanted anything other from Burma but a relationship of fear he badly over played his hand.
Quote from: Korpen on June 15, 2009, 05:35:29 PM
QuoteAt any rate you agreed to the treaty you can either stick by it or not. If you are going to use Korpen's view point you are arguing in effect that RRC has veto over the foreign policy of Burma. I obviously don't support that view point.
Given how the arguments went during the talks, I must admit the Burmese leasing away territory feels a bit disingenuous.
But I am not saying that the RRC should have a veto on the actions of Burma, I am saying that given the way the talks went and that there is risk of being accused of breaking treaty; Burma should simply talk to the RRC about it. I see no reason why they could quickly reach a mutually satisfying agreement on how to interpret the relevant clauses in this and similar situations.
This deal is old news and I have been sitting on it since you traded emails about the talks some time ago. I talked with Guinness and the topic of RRC reacting badly to it was gone over. I offered a great deal and was willing to offer more to bring it off.
And no I strongly think you are in error Korpen if a nation has to talk to another nation about its political deals it is in effect giving that other nation veto over its actions.
I'm not trying to add fuel to the fire here, as for one thing I rue the day I had to start thinking about Burmese foreign policy (joking here, but only just), but some facts:
1. Iberia, thought admittedly acting out of their own self interest, was steadfast in it's support of Burma during the Sino-Burmese war. The idea that Iberia might then come asking Burma for a little something in return certainly isn't surprising, and also doesn't to me seem unreasonable.
2. Iberia is offering to do something here that Burma can't afford any time soon to do for itself, namely vastly improve the port at Sittwe and connect it by rail to the capital in Mandalay.
3. Even today OTL, Sittwe is a significant, but not gigantic place, with a population of 187,000. It's not as if the Burmese are considering leasing away Rangoon.
4. So far as yet, the length of the lease hasn't been discussed. I wouldn't expect it to be nearly as long as some of the other cantonments in the region, and certainly not forever.
5. Once the Iberian constructed railway to Mandalay is complete, and the railway from Kunming to Mandalay is complete, the RRC will have a virtual highway into Burma should they choose to return. This is a fact understood by the Burmese, but their point of view on it is that it will also make Burma a major economic crossroads, especially for Chinese goods, and therefore a less attractive target much more able to defend itself in the future.
6. I don't think one news posting is indicative that the Burmese have or have not decided to discuss this idea with the Republican Chinese, but certainly Mike is right that the Chinese have not earned themselves the right to dictate Burma's foreign policy.
If you'd like, put yourself in Burma's shoes for a moment. They've just been invaded by the Chinese, and only Iberia's involvement prevented what would have been a long and costly campaign even in the best case scenario. Almost immediately after that conflict was concluded at Batavia, the Dutch, who sponsored and mediated the peace at Batavia, have invaded Siam. The Burmese have got to be concerned about the possibility, however remote, that the RRC and the Dutch might be conspiring to divide southeast asia, including Burma between them. So they may be getting a little paranoid. Fortunately for them now, they've got a powerful friend in Iberia. I'm not sure they care that the Dutch and the Iberians have been enemies in the past.
If there is a concern that the NPCs in the region haven't been acting in their best interest, then by all means voice it (though a PM to the mods might be a better avenue). I can assure all though that any prospective deal in this case isn't all Mike's doing, and that the Burmese are and will continue to be negotiating in efforts to secure for themselves the best security situation they can.
The draft treaty we kicked around had...
QuoteThe Kingdom of Burma grants a concession to Imperio Iberico for the port of Sittwe and area. Concession is to be for a term of Twenty Five years.
I would take the view that Burma is not prohibited from ceding territory in this way - however, I'd also take the view that consultation with RRC is not a bad idea, either. As we bureaucrats like to say, "Consultation is not a veto."
Exactly, I might not say no to the idea, just informing the other is very useful. As of now, it feels as though Burma and Iberia has gone behind my back with this deal. And deals that can't be shown to an involved party are rarely good.
Quote1. Iberia, thought admittedly acting out of their own self interest, was steadfast in it's support of Burma during the Sino-Burmese war. The idea that Iberia might then come asking Burma for a little something in return certainly isn't surprising, and also doesn't to me seem unreasonable.
Steadfast? The conflict lasted last than a month. You can't really determine if Iberia was steadfast in such a short period of time. There was rarely any fighting to begin with!
Quote
6. I don't think one news posting is indicative that the Burmese have or have not decided to discuss this idea with the Republican Chinese, but certainly Mike is right that the Chinese have not earned themselves the right to dictate Burma's foreign policy.
I never wanted to dictate Burma's foreign policy just consult with me. Work with me, don't go behind my back!
QuoteIf you'd like, put yourself in Burma's shoes for a moment. They've just been invaded by the Chinese, and only Iberia's involvement prevented what would have been a long and costly campaign even in the best case scenario. Almost immediately after that conflict was concluded at Batavia, the Dutch, who sponsored and mediated the peace at Batavia, have invaded Siam. The Burmese have got to be concerned about the possibility, however remote, that the RRC and the Dutch might be conspiring to divide southeast asia, including Burma between them. So they may be getting a little paranoid. Fortunately for them now, they've got a powerful friend in Iberia. I'm not sure they care that the Dutch and the Iberians have been enemies in the past.
Not really... If I were in Burma's shoes, instead of provoking a recent war enemy, I would do as you did, but also try to avoid provoking the Chinese further. That is talk to them. In the treaty it labels one of the points are to improve the relationships. Use this to your advantage! Try to put aside the differences. Still, I wouldn't trust completely and always be prepared for war. Besides, and here's the big whoopee, if the Dutch and Chinese were planning on splitting south-est Asia. Then Burma is doomed either ways. With ample transports (the Dutch have many in the region), the RRC could land masses of troops on Burmese land and cross over the borders before the first real Iberia warships pass the Suez Canal. Let's not forget the Philippines are in range of the Chinese defensive fleet.
I would, in Burmese shoes, seek an ally that was maybe a little closer to the area, such that they can act instantly to protect Burma.
Logi part of your stated war objectives at one point was the total annexation of the country and the destruction of its political leadership. Its a little late to go in effect, "why don't they want to be my friends and why are they doing things behind my back?!?"
Iberia helped Burma, offered to help them more (full details not in the open) and Iberia asked for something in return. Chucking away the Iberian request or shooting it down might not have been the best move for Burma to do if the RRC turns hostile. At that point Burma has to either find another nation to help them or do whatever the RRC wants whenever the RRC asks for anything. So they accepted upsetting the RRC to keep Iberia happy and involved. It provides ties between Burma and Iberia; making it very costly for Iberia to just leave Burma to its fate in a future conflict.
I agree that Burma could have at least floated the idea off of the RRC but what does Burma do if the RRC makes a big stink out of it? Do they then go back to Iberia and say sorry deal is off; does Iberia then flush the rest of the treaty and its promised aid and perhaps the oil investment money? The sure bet to assure Iberian linkage is to plow forward and accept the riskes.
I know I'm not saying Burma needs to listen to the RRC at all. I'm saying doing this behind someone's behind just provokes them. They DON'T need to be my friends. There's a difference between being friendly and not trying to provoke the opposition into a premature attack.
What I am saying is that Burma should talk to me about, but totally ignore my opinion.
Madrid
Fall 1916
Minister of Defense, Manuel Gutiérrez y Mellado (General de Ejército Ret.)
Head of the Army, General de Ejército Julio Macías y Santander
Head of the Navy, Almirante Antonio Bermejo
Julio, "The Emperor wants war with the Dutch."
Bermejo nodded and then added, "He has asked to see any reports of Iberian shipping being bothered on the 'High Seas' by the Dutch Navy."
The retired General ran his finges through his white close cut hair, a hair style he had since he was a cadet over 50 years ago. "The Government doesn't want a war and several of our allies have made clear they aren't interested in fighting the Dutch half way around the world."
Julio, "I have had some letters with some of my opposite numbers amoung our friends and none of them want to risk a land war in Europe or fighting in the Atlantic. Its going to be years till we can complete the redeployment of the armies away from Brazil towards Europe and the Philippines. In the mean time we lack numbers in either area to do anything other than defensive operations. Admiral what do we have left here if the ballon does go up with the Dutch?"
The Iberian fleet commander shook his head as he answered, "Next to nothing the Med Fleet which is the core of our navy has been moved to the Philippines. The Dutch have many of their heavy units in the Atlantic as we saw with that move in the South Atlantic to pick off the Brandenburg island. If a war breaks out with the Dutch we would almost be totally dependent on our allies to maintain our lines of communication between Europe and Brazil. In South East Asia our combat power would help the Brandenburgers but we need more subs, more Destroyers and better ASW trainning."
The Defense Minister nodded, "So its safe to say that from a military point of view we are not ready for a war with the Dutch."
Both heads of the uniformed services nodded at once. The old general then stood up and the other two did the same, "Very well I will explain the facts of life to the Emperor and if he pushes things I will resign."
Manila Bay, Philippines
Late December 1916
Sitting in the protected bay was the core of the Iberian Navy, two modern Battleships, five older but updated battleships, four armored cruisers, six protected cruisers and thirty torpedo boats. The order had come down that the ships would not be returning any time soon to Europe and neither would their current war level status be changed. As a matter of fact orders were given for any maintenance scheduled within the next two months to be done now.
December 23rd, 1916
Philippines
By the order of the Governor General in the name of his Most Catholic Majesty Jaime I, Emperor of Iberia, general mobilization in the territory of the Philippines is to continue for an additional two months.
December 27th, 1916
Madrid
El Mundo Headline - "PSOI Deputies Demand return to peace time levels for military."
El País Headline - "Possible Tax Increases for 1917 in offering."
ABC Headline - "Philippines threatened by continued fighting in Far East."
QuoteMadrid
March 14th, 1917
Prime Minister of Iberia, Don Felipe González y Márquez
Leader of Partido dos Trabalhadores e dos Camponeses (PTC), Ricardo "Chefe" Berzoini
"So Mr. Berzoini what can I do for you today? I hope you aren't going to ask about working hour reforms; there is just no way to fit it into the schedule before the summer." Don Felipe asked.
A crooked smile went across Berzoni's face, "We both know that you could fit it on the schedule... BUT I am not here today about that."
Don Felipe sighed, "Mr. Berzoini as one gets up in age, the more one appreciates direct answers... even in Politics. Would it be possible to get to the point?"
The smile on Berzoni broke out into a full grin, "Of course Excellency. This should explain my visit."
The Socialist leader handed over to Don Felipe a folder. As soon as Don Felipe opened it he his face went slack at the top sheet. "Operation Shantou" Where did you get this Mr. Berzoini?
"Another copy came in the mail a few days ago and by your reaction I know it's real or close enough. Before you ask I have no idea who sent it. Perhaps someone on the General Staff is responsible." Ricardo Berzoini said a smug voice.
A grim expression settled over Don Felipe's face, "I can't say if it's real or not, the Official Secrets act applies to this office. A law someone broke to send that to you if it's a real document. So what do you want Berzoini?"
Berzoini smiled thinly before he replied, "What I WANT in the long term is your job, what I want today was to tell you I had that." Berzoini paused to tap the folder before continuing, "And to tell you that we are putting that document on the questions list for the next session. You have to admit that having the Navy sweep the Republican Chinese coast to look for their navy so it could be sunk and to shell Hong Kong is an act of war. And the last time I checked only the Cortes Generales can declare war. I expect that all members of the opposition and some of your own collation will be interested in that document."
The Prime Minister looked on in horror, "Berzoini you are playing with fire the 3rd Pacific War just ended do you want to start a fourth war?"
Berzoini shrugged, "I want the Emperor to know we aren't slaves and his authority has limits, legal limits and one of those is that the Cortes Generales makes war and peace. He has authority over the military but is required to seek the Cortes Generales approval before he starts a war. This is all too much like the Balkan War just far more blatant; as I said the Emperor needs a reminder."
Palace a few hours later
Emperor, HIRH Jamie
Prime Minister of Iberia, Don Felipe González y Márquez
Foreign Minister, Diogo Freitas do Amaral
"So I need a reminder do I? How about we give the 'chief' his own reminder? Why don't we remind him what 'treason' and 'espionage' mean?" The emperor said in a flat tone.
Do Amaral shook his head in disbelief, "I knew the man was ruthless as all hell. You wouldn't believe some of the rumors about him out of Brazil, political killings and extortion. Things just started to calm down in that part of the world. I am to start working with Burma so we can get the oil and port projects started this fall. This could wreck everything."
"Majesty as much as I would like to lock him up, Madrid isn't Lisbon and we can't just dump socialists into work camps whenever they become inconvenient." The Prime Minister said in a voice that was thin and raspy.
The emperor nodded, "You are right of course, would be a bad example I guess if we locked him up after I went through all the trouble of getting the blue coats in Portugal to follow at least the letter of the law. Still I don't like military secrets being passed out let alone used for political advantage. We have a leak and I want it found and whoever the leak is tried and then SHOT."
The prime ministers nodded, "I will let Gutiérrez know you want this looked into. Still that leaves Berzoini to deal with and I think I have a possible solution... I resign."
The Foreign Minister looked surprised for a moment and then nodded. Emperor Jamie shook his head, "No Don Felipe I won't have your career end like this and I need you."
Don Felipe gave a tired grin, "No Majesty I am no longer a young man. I am in fact a very old one. I am going to have to step down sooner rather than latter. Might as well be now and I can accept the blame for the incident, protecting the government."
Sadness came over emperor and knew it was the way to move forward but the stubborn part of him wouldn't admit it, "I don't want Berzoini to have the satisfaction of driving you from office. Is there something else we might do?"
With a problem before him some of the fatigue melted away from the Prime Minister, "Oh I can think of a number of solutions that wouldn't involve me stepping down. All have problems or at least risks though. I am very sure that my solution will work as no one really cares if we insult the Reformist Chinese. Ever since the battle for Taiwan many in the know have had reservations about the Chinese in general; especially in the Philippines and since the break up the Reformists have been causing problems everywhere. The solution with a chance of an actual political pay off is to acknowledge we planned to destroy the RRC Navy and we will not be threatened by them. A very good chance it would cost the socialists. The problem is my health isn't up for a bruising political campaign and I could be wrong and no telling how that part of the world reacts. The safe choice is to try to bury this quietly in a secret meeting of the Cortes Generales."
The Emperor gave a nod at last, "Very well Don Felipe, I will always remember your service and sacrifice for the Empire."
To be continued...
Spring 1919
QuoteH.I.I.M.S. Gibraltar, Indian Ocean, 700nm West of Aden and 300nm South of Oman Coast Steaming east, speed 12 knots
"Faint distress signal Captain, 'Being attacked by Pirates, Ten miles north of Socotra' the message is being repeated."
Capitán de Fragata Antonio Calderón walked over to the navigation table, "Lieutenant Blanco how soon can we get there?"
The Lieutenant looked over the map chart and measured the distance, "Call it 135 nautical miles to the east coast of Socotra, so four and half hours at flank. Fuel bunkers are at 230 tons Captain."
Capitán Calderón nodded, "XO inform the chief engineer we are going to flank and pass the word to crew that we will be going to battle stations in three hours." The captain went to the radio room, "Sparks see if you can get them to give an ID and let them know we are responding."
Five hours later
Bridge of Gibraltar
"Any thing from Kobayashi Maru XO?" The captain asked his second in command.
"No Sir nothing since after they identified themselves and confirmed their location." Capitán de Corbeta Portillo responded.
Capitán Calderón sighed, "Very well reduce speed to fifteen knots and we will sweep the area keep the crew at General Quarters."
A few hours later off the town of Had?b?, largest settlement on Socotra
"Well that was simple XO. Its clearly a freighter but we are too far out to make out any names but I don't see why such a large ship would put into such a marginal port." Capitán Calderón
Portillo nodded and frowned, "We're loosing the light sir."
Capitán Calderón sighed, "We will come back tomorrow at dawn. See if we can raise San Salvador da Chagos and ask them for instructions. In the mean take the crew off general quarters but keep the crew at alert status. Have the off duty officers join me for dinner."
Half an hour later in the Officers Mess
"We haven't gotten a response from San Salvador we are just too far away so we are going to have to deal with this ourselves. Standing orders require us to respond to any distress signal and destroy any pirates we encounter. So we are going to get that ship free and stomp out whatever nest of Pirates is operating here." Capitán Calderón informed his officers.
One of the junior officers glanced at his fellows and then spook up, "I understand sir but might we want to get some help? We don't have much of a landing section."
Lieutenant Tomas López frowned at the statement. López stood out compared to the other officers who were in their tropical tan-yellow naval uniforms vs. his sea-green army style uniform with the crossed rifle and anchor of the Iberian Naval Infantry on his collar. He leaned forward, "Captain my men are ready and able to take out some pirates. Still there are only twenty five of us so some help from the rest of the ships company would be helpful."
Capitán de Corbeta Portillo coughed lightly, "Captain I have looked through the books as you ordered and Socotra is officially French."
Capitán Calderón nodded, "But?"
Capitán de Corbeta Portillo continued, "But I don't think they are doing anything about it. There was a coaling station listed here but its listed as abandoned, no coast defense battery, no garrison and no Governor listed. Near as I can figure nothing has occurred here since 1903 when there is a note about possible sale to Brandenburg. All that I think is really here is a telegraph station for the French Indian Ocean Cable Company."
Capitán Calderón nodded, "Very well we will move in at dawn. Commander Portillo will command the landing party; take fifty men from the ships company including three other officers and Lieutenant López and his Marines. You will have seventy five men Commander and fire support from the 150's if you need them."
Portillo stood, "We will not let you down Captain!"
Dawn the next day
The Iberians landed outside the mud brick town and the ships boats quickly headed back to the cruiser sitting off shore. Portillo called out, "Lieutenants Blanco and López."
The two officers trotted up to the commander and they along with the two other officers kneeled down, "Gentlemen as we planned. Blanco your group goes along the waters edge and find someone who knows something about the Japanese ship. López you take your marines into the center of the town and find the Mayor or whoever runs this shithole. Everyone will be with me as we search this place. If anyone runs into trouble fire a red flare. Two yellow flares means fall back to the beach. Understood?"
All the officers nodded.
Short time later
The Iberian Marines made their way through the streets of the mud brick town. Anytime anyone noticed the Iberians they ducked into the nearest building or side ally. As the Iberians neared the distinctive minarets of the Mosque a cry erupted from near by buildings, "Allahu Akbar!"
Arabs with spears, scimitars and some firearms, mostly muskets but a few rifles charge the Iberians. Lieutenant López calls out, "Return Fire by Squad!" One of the Iberian NCO's cries out, "Desperta ferro!" The Iberians armed half with Mannlicher Carbines and half with Thompson SMG 18's open fire. Most of the Arabs were cut down before they could get near the Iberians, most of them. A few Marines cry out in pain. Lieutenant López has a red flare fired into the sky. As the Iberians push forward war cries are shouted cross the towns streets, "Allahu Akbar" by the Arabs and a combination of "Desperta ferro", "Santiago y cierra, España" and "Portugal e São Jorge" from the Iberians. For many Iberians the war cries remind them of childhood stories of the Reconquista.
Despite the Iberian Marines heavy firepower advantage they are hugely out numbered and the tight streets negate much of that firepower advantage. López need clear lines of fire for his guns to work best but only one place has that, "Marines take the Mosque! Santiago y cierra!" As the Iberian Marines advance they hear the distant roar of what they believe is one of the ships 150's.
Elsewhere in town
"Gibraltars to me!" a young Ensign calls out next the shattered body of Lieutenant López, "Keep your head down sir." A chief told the Ensign and then pulled him down, "Sir we need to take out that pop gun."
The Ensign nodded, "Signalman! Ask the Gibraltar for fire support and everyone get your head down!"
On the Bridge of the Gibraltar, "Message from Lieutenant López, 'B-R-A-S-S- - -C-A-N-N-O-N- - - R-E-Q-U-E-S-T- - -F-I-R-E- - -S-U-P-P-O-R-T'"
Capitán Calderón grunted, "A and B batteries open fire!" The forward 150mm gun crews had been waiting for the order since the first blast of the cannon had kicked up its cloud of dust.
Back in the town, "Signalman, Tell them to drop 50 and fire for effect!"
The signal lamp quickly relayed the instructions back to the Gibraltar and her forward guns adjusted their aim and went to rapid fire. One round every six seconds was soon landing among the buildings of the town front. After two minutes the guns ceased fire.
Ensign Jose Ramírez stands and shouts, "Forward Gibraltars!"
To be continued...
Whats the exact date for that? Cause a lot is happening in that area in the Spring.
There's pirates and battles going on in their backyard, but the Italians are watching a peaceful convoy...
The weak SOS goes out on May 30th, note the Iberians had trouble picking up about 150 to 170 nm away. So Adan didn't get it and its debatable what if anything else in the area did. Now other ships would have heard it and word would get out very quickly. The Iberian troops land and are in the firefight on on May 31st.
HOLY SH*T! You just declared war on the DKB. They have a Class 1 port there, and were building a sub there. :o
Quote from: TexanCowboy on March 30, 2010, 03:27:38 PM
HOLY SH*T! You just declared war on the DKB. They have a Class 1 port there, and were building a sub there. :o
HUH?
March 30th is exactly when the Swiss convoy is crossing that precise area. The situation in that area is rapidly becoming very confusing.
They invaded Socrata....
Per Mario (Maddox) Socotra is French, he approved the story. To be technical Iberia declared war on France or rather an Iberian Captain is killing a bunch of Pirates who happen to French citizens and any poor civilian slobs caught in the cross fire.
Quote from: TexanCowboy on March 30, 2010, 04:24:23 PM
They invaded Socrata....
1. Socotra is an island archipelago NE of the East tip of Italian East Africa (OTL Somalia). I have not now, nor at any time in the past held Socotra. I have a place called Sarawak, which is in the NOI.
Quote from: Desertfox on March 30, 2010, 04:23:06 PM
March 30th is exactly when the Swiss convoy is crossing that precise area. The situation in that area is rapidly becoming very confusing.
Quote from: miketr on March 30, 2010, 02:13:18 PM
The weak SOS goes out on May 30th, note the Iberians had trouble picking up about 150 to 170 nm away. So Adan didn't get it and its debatable what if anything else in the area did. Now other ships would have heard it and word would get out very quickly. The Iberian troops land and are in the firefight on on May 31st.
2. Dates aren't even close people.
Really now, because when I tried to buy a base in the Indian Ocean, I was told that Socrata was DKB terriory. That lead to Masahri....
It was leased by DKB in N2 but when the game was rebooted in N3 it reverted to France. You can see here where the old DKB player Swamphen is dropping the claim during the reboot talks.
http://www.navalism.org/index.php?topic=9.msg2139#msg2139
Ok....
Glorious France never reclaimed Socotra after the Bavarian Revolt in 1905 and the Big Sell-out of 1906-1907.
If Paris hears about this some eyebrows will rise and heads will be scratched.
Hmm...
Umm..OK so Swampy HAD it, but gave it back, but France never took it back? No wonder there's pirates running out of if. Hmm... Brandenburg would be...less than amused to hear that France never took it back and that it could have been retained, nor that their are pirates running amok off the coast of Aden and Ost Afrika. We'll have to see how long that information takes to make it back east. I'm sure Madrid would share this info rather quickly (The Pirates that is).
Two hours after the action began in front of the Mosque
Ali Abdullah Mujur Bey, "I am the headman of Had?b? young Kafir."
Capitán de Corbeta Portillo, "I require that you surrender the town in the name of Capitán de Fragata Antonio Calderón, commander of His Iberian Majesties Ship Gibraltar. Also you are to turn over the crew of the freighter Kobayashi Maru. Lastly I want hostages from the largest families in town."
The Bey's eyes narrowed and reached up to stroke the long white beard that went nearly to his waist, "You demand many things young Kafir."
Portillo shrugged, "Shall I signal my captain that you refuse his terms?"
Ali's hands returned to his side and his hand closed into a tight fist, "I surrender the town and will get you your hostages Kafir. As to the freighter I have no control over the Somali pirates." Ali turned and spit in the direction of the ocean for emphasis.
Portillo has equal amounts of question and sarcasms as he asks, "And you attacked my men out your dislike of the Pirates?"
Ali glares, "Kafir they like you took hostages including my grandson when they came here last year. We ordered to fight if any soldiers came while a captured ship was in port."
Portillo raises one of his eye-brows, "What of the French? Why didn't you ask them for help? There was once a coaling station here and there still is the cable relay station."
Ali shrugged, "The Frenchmen left fifteen years ago and we haven't seen a French Warship stop here for ten. The only Frenchmen we see are the ones that stop by once every two years to check on their cable relay. If we asked for help the Somali's made clear that they would kill the hostages."
Portillo nods slowly, "I see and where are the Pirates now?"
Ali points towards the sea again, "They left after they dropped off the freighter. Some of their men are on it now. They might be back in a day or it might be as long as a week depending on if they sail off to sell what they have taken."
"I see and do you know where they go to sell their loot?" Portillo asked.
Another shrug, "They always leave and return from the East. Except twice they headed West, I think they were going to Somali where the Italians rule to recruit more of their people."
Portillo paused in thought and then said, "Very well Ali Bey I will tell my Captain what you have told me. If what you told me is true and if we can we will return the people that the Pirates have seized. In the mean time show these men the cable relay."
An hour later on the Gibraltar
"Pirates on the Kobayashi Maru surrender now!" Capitán Calderón called over in his accented French.
A reply came a short while later in broken French, "Leave now! We kill hostages!"
Capitán Calderón snorted when he heard the reply, "Put a shot across her bow." A gun crew on one of the 75's fired a round as ordered. "No more warnings! Surrender or I will hang every Pirate we find on that ship!" Leaning forward he shouted down to bandaged officer in the motor launch, "Lieutenant López take your men and seize that ship."
As the launch headed over to the seized freighter a single shot rang out from the freighter and a body was dumped into the water, "HOLD YOUR FIRE!" Capitán Calderón bellowed.
A new voice called out, "No kill! We Surrender!"
That afternoon in the Captains Cabin
Lieutenant López said, "The Pirates story matches what the wogs said in the town. Their mother ship headed east to look for more ships to seize they are expected back in a few days. These idiots claim to have no clue where things are taken to be sold."
Capitán Calderón leaned back in his chair, "I see and the crew and passengers?"
A look of pure disgust passed over Lieutenant López's face, "Most are still alive but wouldn't have been for much longer if we didn't get here I think. The freighters captain and purser were killed, tortured when they refused to 'give up the gold'. These idiots thought there was gold on board. There were some passengers including some woman... they ah... have had a rough time. It appears that their 'captain' doesn't let them take any of the women from the town as they are afraid that might provoke them into screaming for help hostages or no. This restriction doesn't apply to woman on ships they seize. The ship itself is fine and I have the crew being looked over by my medic."
Capitán Calderón nodded, "Good report Lieutenant, dismissed."
Lieutenant López came to attention but before he left he asked, "Sir what are we going to do now?"
Capitán Calderón paused before he replied, "Good question Lieutenant, we need some help that much is clear but the Cartagena is way back at the Chagos. No I need to get a message off to Madrid and ask for some help. Perhaps contact Aden also it's near by and the Brandenburgers don't care much for pirates either."
To be continued...
Quote2. Dates aren't even close people.
Somehow I read March instead of may...
Quote from: miketr on March 31, 2010, 10:05:17 AM
June 1st, 1919
The French Ambassador to Iberia is called into a meeting with the Iberian Prime Minister,
Diogo Freitas do Amaral. He will find the Brandenburg Ambassador already there.
"Mr. Ambassador two days ago the Iberian Warship, Gibraltar, received a distress signal from a ship under attack by pirates, the Kobayashi Maru. The ship was reported north of Socotra. The Kobayashi Maru was discovered the next day anchored off Hadibu, the largest town on Socotra. Capitán Calderón sent a landing party ashore to investigate and reports that his men were attacked by locals. The locals claim that the pirates were holding several of their relatives hostage to force cooperation. It appears that the Pirates were using Socotra as a base for their attacks for the last year or so. The locals also claim that it has been a decade, perhaps as long as fifteen years, since France has exercised any control over the islands. Capitán Calderón has recovered the Kobayashi Maru and plans to find the pirates ship and capture or sink them. Capitán Calderón requested that Aden provide help and I understand that Captain von Müller of the SMS Nymphe has been dispatched to help and ships in Goa also alerted.
Also Capitán Calderón has because of the lack of competent civil authority and to maintain order has taken control of the town on a temporary basis.
Mr. Ambassador the Iberian government is frankly at a loss as to what to make of this situation. The idea that a nation would just, in effect, abandon a large island in major shipping lane is simply astounding.
So Mr. Ambassador Iberia would like an official statement from Paris on what is the status of Socotra. Is the island French territory or not? If it is French territory Iberia would like some... assurances that steps will be taken to avoid a repeat of this incident. If the territory is not French territory then something will need to be done but before we talk about that I would like to hear your governments response. "
Quote from: maddox on March 31, 2010, 10:15:42 AM
Monsieur le Premier Diogo Freitas do Amaral, I'm astonished to hear anything like this.
In my knowledge the DKB has leased the entire Island from France for 99 years.
I'll get the information to and from Paris to clear this up as soon as possible.
QuoteDo Amaral looks at the Brandenburg Ambassador who is clearly shocked by the French ambassadors statement. After a moment the Brandenburg Ambassador speaks, "I will contact my government again but it was my understanding that the lease was terminated and the island returned to France years ago. I am not even sure how long we had a presence there it wasn't very long, less than a year. "
Do Amaral says, "It appears much needs to be looked into. If we could meet again in a day or so gentlemen?" "Yes, that is good."
Due to the information from the Iberian government that a pirate vessel is operating in the waters east of Socotra, the Asian sqdrn has dispatched following ships:
Bcc BCS Gujarat, Cl. 26 Gøtaland, DD 01 Bornholm, DD 02 Andøy and the Minesweeper Msc 8,
in conducting "anti-piracy" patrols in the area between Gujarat and Socotra. Any pirates apprehended in the area, will summarily be trialed and executed!
Well with talk of trails and hangings... might as well give people what they want. I was waiting for Sam to get back to me but doesn't look to be any down side to not posting so...
Michael
QuoteMorning June 2nd, 20 Miles NW of Socotra
Three cruisers are close by one another, so that they could use signal lamps or flags to communicate so to avoid use of their radios. The ships are SC-9 Neptune Captain Acuzio Iulius Malisius of the Roman Empire, SMS Nymphe Korvettenkapitän Karl Friedrich Max von Müller and HIIMS Gibraltar Capitán de Fragata Antonio Calderón. Yesterday the Neptune ran across a ship which had picked up the distress signal and came here to investigate. Captain Calderón informed Captain Malisius of what went on over the last few days while Captain Müller already was informed by the message to Aden. The three ships will work together to capture the pirate mother ship.
That afternoon looks outs spot a ship that matches the description of the Pirate Mother ship. At once the three cruisers head off in pursuit. The Pirate ship a threat to small or even medium sized shipping has nothing to deal with one cruiser let alone three and quickly is taken.
Early evening in the square out front of the main Mosque of Hadibu
The three captains sat at a table while the pirates stood before them under the guard of sailors of the three ships. The Captains spoke in French which was the one language in common to the three.
Captain Calderón spoke while pitching his voice to carry across the square which had a number of the locals watching from behind a line formed by sailors and marines, "This special Courts-Martial will come to order. Captain Calderón President of the Court, Captains von Müller and Malisius are the other members. The accused are charged with Murder, Piracy and Rape on the High Seas, these are Capital Crimes."
The 'captain' of the pirates replied in accented but understandable French. "This is bullshit Spanish sailor boy. This no court. You have no power, this French island."
Captain Calderón, "I don't see any Frenchmen about to turn you and your fellows over to 'Captain' and I would inform you to keep a civil tongue when addressing the court. As to my authority, Iberian Admiralty law deals with Pirates captured via Courts-Martial. The standard penalty for Piracy, Rape and Murder is DEATH. So I suggest you start to take this seriously."
Von Müller leaned forward, "The Reich has similar laws to Iberia. We don't much like Pirates. It will be your loss if you think that we will not hang you."
Captain Malisius sat straight in his chair, "The Empire like Iberia and Brandenburg has its own laws for dealing with Pirates. I have agreed to take part in this court in the interest of justice and I am perfectly happy to condemn you to death."
The pirate captain looked at the faces of the three officers. He saw disgust but determination and began to think that they might do just what they said. "What I do so you no hang... Captains?"
Captain Calderón replied, "A moment the court will confer." Then Captain Calderón continued to speak in a much lower voice, "As we agreed?"
Von Müller nodded, "Ja."
Captain Malisius, "Sì, capitano we need to know who was cooperating with these scum."
Captain Calderón turned to face the accused, "The court requires a full confession, the location of where you disposed of your loot and who your contact was. In exchange the court agrees to not impose the death penalty. You also testify against your men."
The pirate swallowed, "How I know you no kill anyways?"
The captains glared at the pirate and then Von Müller answered, "A pirate is questioning the word of a naval officer that is rich. You can trust us to kill you if you don't cooperate pirate. I suggested we turn you over to the locals; I understand that they want to have some words with you about their relatives. It seams they are not happy at the treatment their relatives as hostages got in your care."
The pirate captain glanced at Ali Bey who was watching from the crowd. "Bharat, we take ships to Bharat. Kochi Ship Breakers. They buy ship, cargo and sometimes buy crews."
Captain Malisius looked ready to spit, "You sold the crew as slaves? What a lovely person you are... Who was your contact?"
The pirate captain answered, "Me no know why Bharati want people me just sell them."
Von Müller whispered to the others, "Thuggee..." The others nodded silently as all had heard of the rumors of what went on in Bharat.
The pirate continued on, "We talk different person when sell ships, they take ship and cargo no question."
Captain Calderón replied flatly, "Not good enough."
Pirate stuttered, "Gambheer, Lord Gambheer. He Bharati soldier man, rules fort." With a forced smile, "No kill?"
Captain Calderón, "We have an agreement, give us a full statement, dates, ships and how much they paid you. Also what you ordered your men to do and what they did."
As the Pirate captain spoke, several of the other Pirates had enough French or Italian which was very close to French to figure out that their captain was rolling them. Even though restrained they attempted to attack their former captain and screamed all sorts of insults at him.
Captain Calderón barked, "Restrain them!" After the sailors and marines restored order, the Iberian turned towards the pirate captain said, "You appear to be fresh out of friends 'Captain' I think we will have to keep you separate from your men. The court will now consider the evidence and pass judgment."
The three captains spoke briefly among themselves.
Captain Von Müller, "Guilty, hang the rest of the scum and the so called captain never has another free day. "
Captain Malisius, "He is a Somali, if you want captain I can take him back with me. We have fine prisons. He can spend his days making large rocks into small rocks, the empire needs roads and railways. Maybe some of his men have relatives in there already. As to the rest, guilty and hang them."
Captain Calderón nodded, "I agree with my fellows on the other pirates, guilty and death. As to the so called captain... yes there would be a certain level of poetic justice to that suggestion Captain Malisius." Turning towards the pirates Calderón spoke up, "As president of the court I will now pronounce the judgment and sentence of this court. The accused are found guilty on all counts the sentence is DEATH. Sentence will be carried out at once. The sentence of the leader of the pirates is commuted to life in prison at hard labor. You will be turned over Captain Malisius of the Neptune and transported back to Italian Somalia for sentence to be carried out." Captain Calderón glanced at Lieutenant López, "Hang the rest Lieutenant."
He should have surrendered to the Swiss at Masirah. Only high treason gets the death penalty in NS.
Quote from: Desertfox on March 31, 2010, 12:41:58 PM
He should have surrendered to the Swiss at Masirah. Only high treason gets the death penalty in NS.
I am sure that if the Pirates had any clue that warships were waiting for them they would have gone anyplace but back to that island.
True. But you people just like to kill everyone...
Since we are talking about Pirates of Somalia:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-i6BgeTHkI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-i6BgeTHkI)
;D
Quote from: Desertfox on March 31, 2010, 12:45:40 PM
True. But you people just like to kill everyone...
Criminals and scum? Oh yah, kill them in job lots.
June first, late noon, Offices of Minister Capet.
Minister Capet, a telegram for you, from our embassy in Iberia. Ambassador Leuve has an urgent question.
Yes Ingrid, what is the urgency?
He asks who's holding Socotra.
Socotra?
An island between Oman and Djibouti Island. Romania asked about it 3 years ago. We answered that they should talk to the DKB. In stead the Romanians got talking to the Omani and ended up with Masirah.
That is a perfect answer. It's a DKB island.
Appearantly not. It seems that the DKB did renege on the lease, around 1905.
Why is my department not aware of that?
Nobody here is aware of that fact. But I did send out a request for all documents concerning Socotra.
Efficient and anticipating as ever, aren't You, Ingrid.
As long we don't have all the facts, Ambassador Leuve has to keep it diplomatic and non committed as possible.
And send a message to Admiral Geon. I think airship patrols and maybe a few of his modern ships could allivate the anxiety there.
06-02-19
Paris, Premier Galpoux's offices.
Minister Capet, Monsieur Grange, please be seated.(the 2 men do, and are promptly served with their favorite 4 o'clock digestives)So, messieurs, what can you tell me about this late mess we're sailing in? Monsieur Grange...As far my documentation goes, the DKB leased Socotra for 99 years, what would let the lease end in 2003. The payments were made in full, and made possible that the Great Canal was finished a year earlier. Officialy.
Unofficialy Palpaté had to admit that Profitable (http://www.navalism.org/index.php?topic=1629.msg56180#msg56180) could have sparked a war nobody wanted to be in, and Socotra was the price for the DKB's silence.
There is no monetary reason for the DKB to renege on the Socotra deal. So, even if I was aware of the lack of DKB presence on Socotra, it isn't that strange. After all, as Iberia puts it, most people believe it is French. And outside the New Switsers, and their even more dark Brethren ,the Bharati's who would dare to attack France, especialy with Djibouti Stronghold so close.
With all the Pacific wars of the 2 last decades , it could be more interesting not to draw attention to the small recoaling port. But to know for sure, we should ask Ambassador Takeda.
Minister Capet. What is your point of view?Outside the information only Le Securité has access to, the same as what monsieur Grange told you. Except for a few small details. It seems that premier Jardan already had made agreements with the DKB about Socotra and access to the Suez Canal. But those were changed into the current know lease. Strangely enough, everything concerning Socotra went trough the¨Premiers offices, not the Foreign Affair Ministry. Our documents give this due the Rimauld case.
And series of appointments were Ambassador Takeda and Palpaté had private meetings. Some before and during the Bavarian Crisis
1, the Brazilian Blow-out
2 ,and a last one just before the Anuhuak El Dorado Sacrifice
3.
In my opinion, those meetings could have been about Socotra. But I concur with monsieur Grange here, we should ask Ambassador Takeda.
- 1 The formation of modern state of Greater Bavaria and Switzerland was during the tumultous year 1905.
- 2 The return of Brazil to Portugal, what went into Greater Iberia is in the same timeperiode.
- 3 El Dorado (http://www.navalism.org/index.php?topic=129.0). The last stand of the Eye Worshipping,human sacrificing and eating Anuhuac
Palacio del Gobernador
Manila, Philippines
"Governor-General the Admiral and his staff are waiting to see you." The aid said.
The Governor-General stood from behind his desk, "Admiral Cortez, Gentlemen what can I do for you?"
The head of the Iberian Pacific Fleet had a grim look on his face, "I have some news you need to hear sir. Its about the Dutch. Commander Ortega will fill you in, Commander?"
"Excellency yesterday evening we intercepted a faint message and it was a little garbled. Also the message wasn't coded. In short the message appears to be a war warning and the Dutch are ordering general mobilization."
The Governor-General looked from one officer to the other, "I see this sounds very serious. Admiral what do you think is going on?"
Admiral Cortez shrugged, "I am not sure Governor-General and nether is my staff. It might be worry over the New Swiss, the message was incomplete. That mess in Africa is sending shockwaves around the globe. We got word that the Hapsburgs will be out our way in a little over a month on an anti-piracy patrol. Brandenburg is worried. It could be that the Dutch want to use the war as cover to go after Siam, New Switzerland, Brandenburg or us."
Nodding slowly at the unhappy news, "I see that sounds troubling, what do you suggest Admiral?"
"Some of my people want general mobilization and invasion alert issued. "
"But?"
The admiral continued, "But I think its premature for that. Instead I suggest we have increased patrols in the South China Sea and Celebes Sea to keep an eye on them till we know more."
"Very well Admiral that sounds sensible, keep me informed. I will also contact Madrid asking them for any information."
The Iberian Naval officers saluted and then left.
QuotePalacio de Oriente, Madrid
September 20th, 1919
Emperor, HIRH Jamie
Prime Minister of Iberia, Diogo Freitas do Amaral
Minister of Defense, Manuel Gutiérrez y Mellado (General de Ejército Ret.)
Head of the Army, General de Ejército Julio Macías y Santander
Head of the Navy, Almirante Antonio Bermejo
Sited along the wall with the Iberians is the Hapsburg Ambassador
The Ambassadors of Brandenburg Kaiserreich, France, Roman Empire and New Switzerland are called to the Palace in Madrid. In the throne room Jamie sits on gilded throne in full regalia while the heads of the army and navy are in dress uniform. The pair of civilian members of the government are dressed in formal attire. Along the walls of the throne room are members of the Guardia Real. The guardsmen stand silently, watching the ambassadors.
Jamie leans forward on the throne, "We are greatly displeased. Some time on or before September 11th someone saw fit to lay a rather large minefield in the Straits of Gibraltar. Over the next day three civilian ships were sunk and a number of lives were lost. The Armada has spent the past week looking for more mines but because of the powerful currents found in the straits most likely a number of mines have been swept into the Mediterranean."
The New Swiss Ambassador attempts to speak but he is cut off by a bark from the commander of the Guardia Real, "Silence! You were not given permission to speak!" The rest of the Guardia Real stomps their rifles butts on the marble floor.
The ambassadors are stunned by the breach of etiquette even more so as it's clear that none of the Iberians are surprised by the action of the Guardia Commander.
Jamie gives a brief nod the Guardia commander who salutes with his sword. Then the Iberian Monarch speaks once more, "Yes, we are MOST displeased. Iberia has had good relations with the nations represented here. Yet your war in East Africa is spilling over into our realm, half a world a way. This is not acceptable and it is to end, NOW. You are informed that we will be calling the Cortes Generales into special session and a funding bill is to be placed before them. The purpose of this bill is to allow for the Armada to be placed on a war footing for the duration of your little war. I trust that no additional incidents will be occurring."
Jamie then waves his hand, "You are dismissed."
The Guardia Commander barks out, "This Audience is at an END!"
Jamie, the rest of the Iberians and the Hapsburg Ambassador leave the throne room.
QuoteMadrid Declaration
September 25th, 1919
Due to the flagrant violations of international law by persons or states unknown in mining the Straits of Gibraltar, the Empire of Iberia has decided to take steps to provide for safe passage of innocent shipping in the Straits of Gibraltar.
To that end the Empire will be enacting legislation to protect neutral shipping using the Straits of Gibraltar. These regulation' will allow for the stopping of Merchant vessels entering the straits for a check of those ships national registry, to check the Ships masters certificate, and to verify that the cargo is safe and legal under Iberian Law. This legislation will expire one week after the end of the current conflict in East Africa.
The Empire of Iberia regrets that these actions must be taken for the safety and security of all shipping neutral and belligerent during this time of crisis. These regulations will be enforced without prejudice or favoritism on all ships transiting the Straits of Gibraltar. These regulations are as follows.
1. Any ships that wish to enter the Straits of Gibraltar will be subject to inspection by the Iberian Armada. The inspection is limited to confirming the identity of the ship and to make sure the ship is not armed. Ships can be inspected at sea or at Cadez on the Atlantic side or Gibraltar on the Mediterranean side.
2. Ships moving through the Straits will do so in convoy's setup by the Armada and no movement will occur during the hours from dusk to dawn.
3. Any ship that fails to stop for inspection a SINGLE warning shot will be fired. After the warning shot if ships still refuse to stop then will be assumed to be hostile and SUNK without additional warning.
4. Any Ship attempting to run the Straits after Nightfall will be treated as hostile ships and may be sunk without warning.
Any nation that wishes is free to aid the Iberian Armada in its efforts but ships provided will do so under Iberian command. Again the Empire of Iberia wishes to clearly state these regulations apply to Shipping utilizing the right of innocent passage through the Straits of Gibraltar. These inspections are for the protection of shipping in the Straits of Gibraltar and are both a right and duty of a state under International Law.
QuoteSeptember 30th, 1919
The Deutsche Reich Brandenburg hereby issues a proclamation of support of the Madrid Declaration.
September 26th 1919 Madrid:
The Empire of Italia today announces its support of the Empire of Iberia in taking the brave step of acting to protect shipping from the predation of person or states that would so cowardly attack neutral shipping by flagrantly violating the common rules of civilized war.
The Empire will be coordinating its shipping with regards to Iberian Law and will work with the Iberian Armada to help meet the needs of Iberia duty to defend innocent shipping passing through Iberia territorial waters.
As I read this, the armament clause seems to absolutely prohibit any non-Iberian warship from transiting the straits. Is that intentional, or is the language only intended to apply to merchant vessels?
As it is written, ships in general, so that included warships. No doubt a few nations will have a problem with that.
Quote from: Valles on July 19, 2010, 09:44:31 AM
As I read this, the armament clause seems to absolutely prohibit any non-Iberian warship from transiting the straits. Is that intentional, or is the language only intended to apply to merchant vessels?
Warships can transit once their identity is confirmed. Iberian's won't be poking around for secrets just getting close enough to view the ships, OOC In this age warships can be identified fairly easy so passing by them is all thats needed. Anything in the straits get sunk at night.
OOC if nations complain to their Iberian Ambassador the response they get is to the effect of, "Pity you see it that way still this is they way things are. I suggest you find whatever ship laid the minefield and sink them to take out feelings of frustration you have."
QuoteI suggest you find whatever ship laid the minefield and sink them to take out feelings of frustration you have.
To achieve that, I think we need to blow every Hun ship out of the water. :)
New Switzerland will make sure Swiss flagged ships comply (to the best of its ability).
The Esc will gladly provide some minesweepers along with a few light cruisers and destroyer.
Quote from: Walter on July 19, 2010, 10:32:58 AM
QuoteI suggest you find whatever ship laid the minefield and sink them to take out feelings of frustration you have.
To achieve that, I think we need to blow every Hun ship out of the water. :)
We find that remark tactless and invalid. We've only lain defensive fields at Brandenburg ports, and ONE(1) offensive minefield at...oh look at the time.
France supports the Iberian Protective Strait edict.
The only difference with the Suez/Great Canal protection program is the night travel restriction.
*cough, cough* Torres *cough* Strait *cough, cough*
Quote from: Sachmle on July 19, 2010, 01:50:41 PM
Quote from: Walter on July 19, 2010, 10:32:58 AM
QuoteI suggest you find whatever ship laid the minefield and sink them to take out feelings of frustration you have.
To achieve that, I think we need to blow every Hun ship out of the water. :)
We find that remark tactless and invalid. We've only lain defensive fields at Brandenburg ports, and ONE(1) offensive minefield at...oh look at the time.
With Huns I was referring to those Bloodthirsty Habsburgers. Got a nice insult list of names that Japan uses to refer to citizens of other nations (as well as other parts of the Empire). A few:
Bavaria ----------------- Kraut
DKB --------------------- Boche, Fritz
DKB Indochina ----------- Gook-eye, Gooky, Gook
Habsburg ---------------- Hun
Italy Africa ------------ Fuzzy-Wuzzy
RRC --------------------- Chink/Chinky
Middle kingdom ---------- Chonk/Chonky
Japan Manchu ------------ Chunk/Chunky
NUS Argentinia ---------- Argie
NUS Peru ---------------- Pervie
NUS Bolivia ------------- Bolvie
NUS Paraguay ------------ PargieQuote*cough, cough* Torres *cough* Strait *cough, cough*
Sounds like it's time for you to quit smoking. :)
September 26, 1919
The Kingdom of Greater Bavaria and Schweiz today announces its support of the Empire of Iberia in taking the brave step of acting to protect shipping from the predation of person or states that wantonly endanger the mercantile interests of non-belligerents through unannounced minefields.
The Kingdom of Greater Bavaria and Schweiz views these minefields as a form of piracy, and supports efforts to provide for the safety of maritime traffic.
The Kingdom will be coordinating its shipping with regards to Iberian Law and will work with the Iberian Armada to promote the safe passage of innocent shipping through Iberia territorial waters.
Iberian Government thanks the offers of support from around the world and they are accept.
Palacio de Oriente, Madrid
September 29th, 1919
Emperor, HIRH Jamie
Prime Minister of Iberia, Diogo Freitas do Amaral
Foreign Minister, José Alencar Gomes da Silva
The emperor from his side of the table, "What is the word from our ambassador in Rome? Anything helpful from the latest meeting of the Curia?"
Da Silva reaches into his brief case and pulls out a sheet of paper, "Brandenburg and Rome were impressed by the document in a number of ways. They had several changes they wanted to make to it, Italy was very concerned as Duke Augostino was worried that a much large occupation force would be needed."
The Emperor arches his eye, "Really?"
Da Silva continues to read, "Yes but it was quickly address as military attache's from various embassy and a Italian General were grabbed and were allowed to address the issue. All believe that as long as there is no overt resistance the occupation could be done by less than 100,000 men and 50,000 should suffice in the long term. The Italians want a number of support elements, light tanks, air aircraft things of that nature but even then we are not talking about more than a few thousand more men."
The emperor nods and smiles, "Excellent."
Da Silva frowns, "But there is one rather large stumbling block remaining."
The Prime Minister shrugs, "Let me guess José they still want to annex territory."
"Exactly Minister, they have reversed themselves some what from what the terms they released were. Instead of stripping New Zion of its coast they are to strip it of its interior and reduce them to an enclave along the current center of the country."
The Emperor lets out a sigh, "All for nothing then, no way New Zion agrees to those terms along with the economic, military and political terms we suggested. Some type of carrot is needed."
Da Silva taps the table with his fingers, "I agree majesty and so does Munich; they are pushing for Brandenburg and Italy to go along with our suggestions, a return to the pre-war borders for New Zion."
The Emperor thinks for a moment, "Any word from our friends in Vienna?"
"None Majesty."
The Emperor nods, "Very well Inform the Hapsburg Ambassador that I want to see him as soon as possible. Tell him that I have a message that I want sent to the Kaiser."
The Iberian Government notes with profound regret that the two halves of China are once more at war. Iberia declares its neutrality in this conflict. As Iberia is a neutral in this conflict Iberia expects the two China's to respect this neutrality and in particular to respect the right of free passage by Iberian shipping on the high seas. If any Iberian shipping is stopped beyond confirm their identity on the HIGH SEAS the Iberian government will consider this an unfriendly and aggressive and respond accordingly.
The Republic of China respects Iberia's neutrality in said conflict and will not go beyond identity checks of it's shipping. However, the Republic of China would discourage arms trading with the Middle Kingdom over the course of the war. We hope the Iberian Government, acknowledges and understands by our concerns.
Quote from: Logi on July 26, 2010, 12:55:17 PM
The Republic of China respects Iberia's neutrality in said conflict and will not go beyond identity checks of it's shipping. However, the Republic of China would discourage arms trading with the Middle Kingdom over the course of the war. We hope the Iberian Government, acknowledges and understands by our concerns.
Iberian shipping that attempts to enter a port under a legal blockade and is carrying contraband is to being seized, this is understood. Until such a legal blockade in place Iberian shipping is free to do as it wishes. The Iberian government has declared its neutrality in this conflict and as part of that neutrality the Iberian government will not provide material support to either side in this conflict.
Palacio de la Moncloa
Madrid
August 15th, 1919
Prime Minister of Iberia, Diogo Freitas do Amaral
Foreign Minister, José Alencar Gomes da Silva
do Amaral, "What have we figured out about the latest world crises?"
Da Silva will shrug, "You aren't going to like it but the answer is not much. We always figured the two would be at blows again well that time is here."
The Prime Minister drummed the table, "Lovely... What does this mean for us and what do we tell his Majesty."
Da Silva thinks for a moment, "For now I don't think it means much to us. This war won't be resolved quickly. If we wanted to make some money would could sell to either or both sides."
Do Amaral starts to shake his head before the foreign minister even finishes, "The Emperor takes issues of neutrality seriously. I am sure we could make huge amounts of money as both sides fleets are largely destroyer based and their armies aren't as up to date as ours. The Republicans have a large and modern air force. The key issue is do we really want the republic to win?"
Da Silva pauses, "Can they win and even if they do at what cost?"
Do Amaral gives his own shrug, "I don't know but we have no real reason to back either side. The Republicans are generally less trust worthy and their past statements to drive out all Westerners from the Pacific doesn't bode well for us. That mess over Burma didn't help matters. The Middle Kingdoms fanaticism over the Swiss turned off a lot of the electorate."
Da Silva drums his figures, "So you are saying we just don't care. I have gotten some low level messages from our allies about the Philippines but we aren't going to ring the alarm bells over this one."
Do Amaral shakes his head.
Da Silva nods, "OK so we just don't care as long as the war goes on without a clear winner we can watch from the sidelines. If the Republic looks like its getting the upper hand?"
Do Amaral thinks for a moment, "Then we start to worry but even then we need to see what exactly is going on. There is one other thing the Governor General of the Philippines forwarded an interesting message on getting some people to Mindanao. Its largely empty and he thought that this conflict might present some possibilities. "
Da Silva, "Is THAT a good idea?"
Do Amaral shrugs again, "Put some people onto it and ask both sides what they are going to do about refugees. We could afford to be selective and we already have a number of ethnic Chinese expatriates and immigrants in Manila and elsewhere on Luzon."
Da Silva, "Recall Burma and what the Republican Chinese did they tried to use them as a ready made excuse to mettle in Burma's affairs. I can see all sorts of problems with this idea."
Do Amaral smiles, "So setup a group to study it, get fiance and defense involved and run through the advantages and disadvantages. I would like a report ASAP. His Majesty will be asking about this I am sure."
Da Silva, "Very well."
QuotePartido Nacional-Sindicalista, PNS HQ
Lisbon, Portugal
Spring 1920
O Líder, Sidónio Bernardino Cardoso da Silva Pais*
Capitán de Navío Antonio Calderón, late of the Gibraltar and now 'port admiral for Lisbon'
João do Canto e Castro, leader of the PNS in the Cortes Generales
* O Líder is Portuguese for 'The Leader"
"Welcome back to Iberia Admiral, you made many people proud when you hanged those pirate scum." João said to break the ice.
Capitán Calderón gave a polite nod of acknowledgement, "Captain, Admiral is just a curtsy promotion while as commander of the port."
Giving a sly smile João responds with, "Come now Captain, you are too modest. You have been given the Iron Cross by Brandenburg, the Medalla Militar and knighted by the Emperor and a promotion for that business with the Pirates."
Sidónio gives a polite cough, "Yes I am sure the good Captain has heard this all before. Perhaps it is time for business. I understand you have a message for us Captain?"
Capitán Calderón was glade the PNS leader was getting to the heart of the mater, "Yes Excellency. I have a verbal message from the Emperor. He would like the Partido Nacional-Sindicalista to put forward this bill in the Cortes Generales." The captain reached into his jacket and pulled out several sheets of paper and handed them over to the PNS leaders.
The two spent several minutes reading the draft law and then at last Sidónio, "The Emperor still doesn't like the Dutch I see. They are clearly a pain but two things. Why should I care and what is in it for the PNS?"
João smiled, "Why doesn't he want his pet party to put this forward? Could it be he wants some type of deniability if this blows up or he wants it to blow up in our face?"
Capitán Calderón said nothing, just waited and at last Sidónio spoke first, "What is the Emperor offering for our assistance in this matter?"
"Besides the gratitude of your Emperor he told me to inform you that if the PNS is the largest party next election that he will give you a chance to form a government and not seek a minority government or national unity government," Capitán Calderón said and then added, "Besides it should play to your base Don Sidónio. Evil foreigners out to get Iberia and all that."
João made a 'tsk' noise with his tongue against the roof of his mouth, "Captain the emperor can duty better than that. After all by tradition the largest party gets to form the government."
Capitán Calderón gave a unfriendly smile, "Yes but the law says the Emperor chooses the Prime Minister and they have to attempt to form a government. Also the Emperor has told me he is prepared to simply rule by imperial decrea and just roll over the budget from one year to the next. That would work for a year or two at least."
João's eyes narrowed, "Or less, those provisions of the constitution have never been tested."
Sidónio, "Yes this is a dangerous game to play Captain. Let us assume I am willing I need something more tangible to give to me people than a vague promise to let me form a government. Otherwise I won't be able to control the delegates."
A faint laugh escaped the Captains lips, "Please Don Sidónio we both know that your parties delegates will do whatever you tell them to do. What are you looking for exactly as a sweetener?"
Sidónio nods, "Its always a pleasure to work with a military man. None of the foolishness, direct and to the point. Very well I want the statement public. The Emperor phrase it however he wants but I require a clear statement that he will let whichever is the largest party after the next election the first attempt to form a government. In exchange we will put forward the Emperors Anti Dutch Economic Bill."
Capitán Calderón stood and gave a deep bow to the two, "I will carry your words to the Emperor, Good day gentlemen."
Once the naval officer left the two PNS leaders looked at each other, "What brought this on you think João?"
"I am not sure Líder but a public statement could rally our support. If we can get a good chunk of the vote in Spain..."
O Líder nodded, "Yes our time maybe here... Who cares about the Dutch, the emperor is right they are a threat."
The two PNS leaders raised glasses to one another, "On to Madrid!"
QuoteMadrid, Spain
Palacio del Congreso de los Diputados
Spring, 1920
João do Canto e Castro, leader of the PNS in the Cortes Generales stood to speak after the speaker of the house gave him the floor, "Long has the PNS warned the people of Iberia of the dire threats that foreigners and socialists..."
Delegates of the Partido dos Trabalhadores e dos Camponeses and Partido Socialista Obrero Iberia begin to boo and hiss. While Partido Nacional-Sindicalista delegates stomp their feet on the floor in response to the socialists interrupting. Also the Speaker of the House pounds a gavel and calls out, "Order! There will be order in the house! Senor João has the floor!" Eventually João is able to resume his speech, "As I said long has the PNS warned about the threats to Iberia, it is time for the Cortes Generales to act against some of these threats! It is time for Iberia to move to secure itself from the dangerous influence of outsiders! I propose a bill to protect restrict the influence that hostile nations have inside of Iberia..."
...
Hostile Nations Act
1) Hostile Nations are defined as nations that Iberia does not have relations with; currently that is just the Kingdom of the Netherlands as New Zion is no more but if Iberia declares war on a nation, or a nation declares war on Iberia, relations would be severed and they too would become a 'hostile' nation.
2) People holding citizenship of Hostile Nations are subject to immediate expulsion from Iberia. Any that enter Iberia from this point forward to be considered spies and subject to arrest and prosecution, spying is a capital offense in Iberia.
3) Property owned by Persons or Foreign controlled cooperation to be subjected to expropriation without any form of compensation.
4) Iberia ports and waters to be closed to shipping of hostile nations; the bill makes no exception or mention of the Straits of Gibraltar.
5) Any trade in peace time to a hostile nation is subject to a 100% tariff.
...
As debate over the bill raged in the Cortes Generales PNS delegates accused socialists delegates as being tools of foreign powers and being fronts communist traitors. While the delegates of the two socialist parties called the PNS fascists and puppets of the rich and corporations. With fights breaking out between the two groups the Speaker for the House at last called in the Guardia da Cortes Generales and broke up the two sides. The Cortes Generales went out of session to allow tempers to cool, such disruptions occur about once or twice a month as both the PNS and the two Socialist Parties each play to their radical base.
What colour shirts do the PNS's militia wear?
- Laertes
(Loves early twentieth century political processes)
Hmm, what socialist do I have handy in the French government?
Quote from: Laertes on October 09, 2010, 04:54:18 AM
What colour shirts do the PNS's militia wear?
- Laertes
(Loves early twentieth century political processes)
Quote
Partido Nacional-Sindicalista, PNS: The Blue Army of Iberia is currently the second strongest political party and has achieved what is hoped to be a major political coup as the UDCyL has agreed to merge with the PNS. To the left the party is a collection of rich strongmen that hire goons to break up political activity by the workers and farmers. The PNS will continue to focus on nationalist rallies and since the Balkan War the PNS has added Muslims to Communists as natural enemies of Iberia. The PNS has coasted to victory in the provincial elections of Portugal in 1907 and 1910. That the PNS has a habit of using their status as auxiliary police in Portugal to round up communists and anyone else that gets in their way no doubt has played a roll. With the addition of the UDCyL the PNS hopes to achieve victory across Iberia.
PNS wear dark blue, hence the title of Blue Army. They also have an arm band with coat of arms of the old Kingdom of Portugal.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Uni%C3%A3o_Nacional.png
The PNS is an ultra-nationalist right wing party pushing a fairly classic Fascism line.
Michael
Quote from: maddox on October 09, 2010, 07:43:03 AM
Hmm, what socialist do I have handy in the French government?
If you looking for some names...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:French_socialists
Michael
Madrid, Iberia
Spring 1920
With the votes at last counted the Cortes Generales has passed the Hostile Nations Act, the Senate is expected to pass the bill without debate and the Emperor to sign the bill into law this week. The bill is expected to have the biggest effect in South East Asia as the Philippines and the Netherlands East Indies are very near to each other. The bill is expected to be put into effect as soon as signed into law, with any Netherlands Citizens to be ordered to leave the country at once and any personal property worth more than a 10,000 pesetas to be seized and any Dutch own companies to be seized. A number of companies have already been sold to other interests to avoid forfeiture.
In other news a special naval appropriations bill has been passed and four batteries of 350mm guns are to be placed along the Straits of Gibraltar and the Armada is looking to acquire additional submarines and station them in the Old Russian base at Gibraltar. Gibraltar since the Russians terminated the lease early has reverted to Iberian control and is an Iberian naval base.
A strange sight to behold in Istanbul the Iberian Cruisers Rio de Janeiro and Madrid sitting at anchor in the Golden Horn. The crews of the pair of crews are given a cool reception by Ottoman Officials especially as full dress uniform and colors were ordered; standard orders for the first day in a foreign capital. In hindsight this might have been the most diplomatic decision as the pair of Iberian ships flew their battle streamers; "PYLOS-1912" "CRETE-1912".
The pair of Iberian Cruisers arrived on January 6th after being diverted from regular patrols. It is believed that the pair of cruisers after refueling will enter the Black Sea with next stop in the Crimea.
Manila, January 11th, 1920
The port is very busy, a number of torpedo boats are in dry dock begin refit. The big Armored Cruiser Don Juan and her escorts has returned from a show the flag mission in the China Sea. Orders are to rest the crews, resupply and be ready to return to sea again in four more weeks. The old Armored Cruisers Pizarro and Balboa have already replaced her on station. While the Henrique and Cristóbal continue preparations to head north in two weeks to replace the new pair on station.
The old five Battleships sit silently in the harbor at anchor. All is normal and there is some talk of having them take a turn on station in the China Sea but for now they remain in port, waiting.
Almost un-noticed the Depot and Repair ship Hephaestus leaves port with the protected cruisers Apra and Colonia riding herd on the support ship. They have all been ordered East to Guam. Even more slowly FDD-1, (Floating Dry Dock 1) is pulled out of port by four civilian oceanic tugs. She too heads east for Guam and with the large Gun Boat Yap to follow the ship to her destination.
Cartagena January 16th, 1920
The port is busy as a number of ships are readied for sea. The big Armored Cruisers Magallanes and Da Gama of CruRon1, the 5th and 10th divisions also. The sleek shapes of several Torpedo Boats Destroyers have crews and yard workers busy as bees all over their long but tiny shapes.
A number of eyes look from the two Battleships, the Pride of the Iberian Armada, Portugal and Brasil. Those two ships sit silently at anchor and their crews watch as half of the Mediterranean Fleet gets ready, gets ready to leave them behind. Not another race to the Pacific but instead to South America to Rio and then to wait.
January 18th, Gibraltar
An ESC Squadron of all things made port at Gibraltar, the destroyers refueled for several hours and then headed east in the Mediterranean. An Iberian cruiser followed them for a day and then returned its normal patrols.