SDN World 3 Story Thread I

[Akhlut]

Batu sighed and began to write a missive to the Yishuv. He couldn't believe Roman's atrocious actions at the Conference and he felt the need to right them. Plus, he knew more then a few of his friends from his days studying in Berlin were Jewish and he wanted to make it clear that Roman was a lone maniac. He knew that even Jews outside of the nation read a lot about the goings-on in the nation, so he hoped he could reach most Jews who read about the venomous rantings from Roman.

My Dearest Friends,

I apologize on behalf of all Mongolia for the words said by one Roman Ungern von Sternberg. Due to his upbringing, he has acquired a strong anti-Semitic belief, but I want to reassure all the Jewish people that most Mongolians do not feel this way and we've always welcomed the Jews who have emigrated to Mongolia for business and that we Mongolians bear no ill will towards the Jews, especially as most of us are Buddhists to begin with and have no reason to feel any malice over differences of religion.

Once more, my gravest apologies for the conduct of Roman Ungern von Sternberg. I assure you that his views are repugnant to all good Mongolians.

[Evincer]

Llamushin State Air Design Bureau
Workers' Collective meeting



"So, the Sky Chief Marshall finally deigns to join us," mocked the talkative worker.

Marshall Gutierrez frowned. Obviously, there was more discipline in the army than in the factories.

"I have had a series of meetings with the Minister, as well as a number of manufacturers. I assure you that this meeting was high on my priority list."

"We are the most skilled aircraft designers and workers on the continent, and we have barely enough production orders to keep us employed!"

There was a rumbling of agreement.

"That is the Minister's purview, not mine," responded Gutierrez. "I can assure you that we have some major contracts coming your way."
"Bomber contracts!" someone shouted.

"I understand that bombers are not the priority of our air force. We were hoping the Soviets would complete their I-1 prototype, but we may have to go out on our own."

One young worker stood up,

"I speak for all of us when I say we would adopt such a program with enthusiasm! We should build a new fighter to protect the skies of Bolivaria!"

The assembled workers began cheering, but when the roar died down, the young worker added,

"My cousin in Portugal says the Palestinians are sending out feelers for autogyro production."

"I will talk to the Minister about this. We should be more aggressive in promoting our designs abroad. I have been involved in the co-ordination of the factory upgrades. Soon, we will be able to produce the most ultramodern designs." He looked and saw the nodding faces among the crowd.

"I will need you to do your best for me. We are succeeding in the adoption of all your designs. By the end of the year, we will be able to expand production to the scale of your desires."

And that, he knew, was what they wanted to hear
"Why do I have to act like a politician," he wondered. "I had really better have a chat with the minister."

He recognized how these workers were not NordAmericanos, living in fear of the industrial discipline of the "foreman" overseer.
They might be demanding, but they turned out good product.

They just wanted to be treated with some respect, he acknowledged. If the production plans went according to schedule, they would see the world that they so desired.

[CmdrWilkens]

The Freedom Conference

Maria de la Luz Jose Fernandez y Lopez was the official envoy of the Mexican Empire to the Freedom Conference and she was bored out of her mind. The conference itself held some promise as a gathering of anti-communist nations and groups from throughout the world while the geographic locale made a Mexican delegation inevitable. The problme was with the rush of unwashed humanity chiming in with their two cents about the evils of the communist/Bolshevik/Jewish/muslim/whatever conspiracy for world dominaiton.

Fortunately attending the conference itself had never been her true purpose.

"Minister we have received word from all of our couriers," her aide said. "The messages and their responses have been received."

"Very well," she smiled slightly. "Add the responses to my personal diplomatic pouch. There shall be no breach until I return to Mexico city to consult with the rest of the Council of Ministers."

"Yes minister."

With that he ran off to finish packing. The entirety of the delegation was, in fact, packed and ready to depart. She had been waiting around to ensure that the several diplomatic communiques entrusted to her were delivered without fail and with responses attached. Now that they had what she wanted they were leaving, the throne of New Spain would not be sullied by attachment to the ideolouges no matter how useful they were for creating cover for such high level travel, that and she never failed to enjoy a good Santiagan dance floor, the men were quite lithesome and able to keep up with her pace.


/OOC Mexico was at the conference but mostly used it as cover for a bunch of shadow diplomacy the results of which are being brought home for review and further action.

[Norseman]

Brasilia
Federal Socialist Republic of Brazil

Sunday, 14th Day of Moses, Feast Day of Buddha

Thick streams of tobacco smoke drifted lazily up towards the ceiling, where they swirled around, forming patterns in the air as they entered the turbulence of the hidden air-conditioning fans. The room was so silent that you could hear the creaking of leather chairs and the slight sound of someone tapping a cigar against a cut crystal ashtray.

Then suddenly the silence was broken as Macario Brasileiro slammed the flat of his hand onto the heavy mahogany meeting table, "Damn it! Aren't there enough weapons in the world to make them happy?" The Great Leader was in rare form today, thundering like he had in his youth. Of course back in his youth he didn't have a beer-gut, nor had he needed glasses, but he was still tall and he had a voice that carried.

"We showed restraint in our construction projects, we built only two dreadnaughts a year, and now this?" The Great Leader continued, making an aggressive motion with his hand which showed off the gold embroidered sleeve on his white uniform jacket. Seeing that no one was about to interrupt him he added rhetorically, "How can they spend so much money on warships while the coal-miners in Arauco are starving?"

Once more there was silence, until the Great Leader made a sweeping motion, "Fine! Minister da Costa, can we out build the rascals?"

"Of course Chairman, we can match them two for one as long as they want to try," Minister and Admiral da Costa said, sounding quite confident. There was always a certain weight and dignity to his words. Indeed he looked less like a revolutionary and more like a naval official of the ancient regime; old and white haired, but with a straight posture, a large beard, and a magnificent white uniform studded with medals and orders.

"Good, good, I don't think anyone can object to that, draw up the new naval budget and present it for approval as soon as possible," the Great Leader said, before leaning back into his chair, apparently calming down a bit, he peered on his list and announced, "Foreign affairs is next it seems..."

"There are three issues facing us at this time, the Freedom Conference, the Indian Sea Crisis, and the, ah," João Maria Patricio e Taffarel the Minister of Foreign Affairs began, looking up and down the table, "The détente with the Cisplatine Republic."

"Any suggestions?" the Great Leader asked, in between puffs of his cigar.

"I would recommend we do nothing on the first two items," Minister Taffarel said, after wetting his lips he added, "There's nothing constructive my Ministry can do, beyond of course informing the Germans that we accept their proposal of threatening an embargo."

"Quite, quite," the Great Leader said, looking quite relaxed, "Anyone else have something to say?" Some people shook their head, others just said no, so the Great Leader pointed at Luisa Isabel Medeiros and asked, "And you? What does the Ministry of State Security have to say?"

"I have a couple of suggestions actually, but we don't have time right now," Luisa Medeiros said, wafts of smoke rose from her thin cigar, as she discreetly watched everyone at the meeting table, "At least not according to Minister da Costa's calculations."

"I assure you Comrade Minister that if it could be done I would have done it," Minister da Costa said, his voice a little sharp, "It would take at least a week just to make preparations, followed by over a month of travel. By then I imagine it would all be over."

"I was merely making a statement of fact," Luisa Medeiros said and smiled softly. Normally that'd be comforting, especially in a relatively attractive woman like Luisa Medeiros, but there was something not quite... right about her. The MSE uniform with its sharp German style cut was only part of it, even if it was the male version. Then in an even more conciliatory tone she added, "There are many things I would like to do, but facts on the ground, or in the air, all too often keep me from doing them."

"So no one thinks we should do anything about these two items?" the Great Leader asked again, seeing that no one seemed overly interested he continued, "Now then, the Cisplatine offer, do you think it is legitimate?"

"I would hope so," Minister da Costa said, like most of them he was middle-aged, and he had a certain indecisive air about him. A small man with a greying moustache and a receding hairline, the elaborate Order stars on his chest was about the only thing that made him stand out from a crowd. For once however he sounded confident, "We should accept though, even if they aren't entirely sincere. As I see it the treaty could not possibly hurt us."

Once more no one had any real objections, so the Great Leader nodded, "Good, then proceed with caution."

[OOC: This post isn't very good, but I had to do something.]

[Siege]

Diplomatic Telegram

To the Foreign Ministry of Mongolia,

On behalf of the Sultanate of Egypt I want to convey my great displeasure at hearing the words of your 'baron', Roman Ungern von Sternberg, at the Freedom Conference of Buenos Aires.

His remarks, particularly those concerning Jews, have a potential to inflame religious and ethnic strife in the Yishuv region which is, as you know, a protectorate of the Sultan of Sultans. His Exalted Majesty the Sultan looks most unfavourably upon those who would destabilize the fragile peace of His most eminent domains.

Was signed with all due regards,

On behalf of His Exalted Majesty the Sultan of Sultans,

Wazir ud-Daula [Minister of State] Abbas ibn Kareem aal-Filisteeni


Al-Faisal Air Corps Base
Alexandria, Egypt



With a rumble of engines the SMI Darda'il heavy bomber [Vickers Virginia] took to the skies, its eight ton bulk suspended between three wings and two engines. The aircraft was but the second heavy bomber to enter service with the Sultanate Air Corps, following the ageing V/1500 long-range bombers produced by Von Schenk's Allgemeine Technowaffe. The V/1500 was longer ranged, but the Darda'il was easier to produce and many in the Air Corps considered the 'German bomber' a silver bullet, a fantastic piece of engineering that wasn't really what the SAC required...

[Lonestar]

P.N.S. Galen Tyrol, Ferguson-Hamilton Shipyards, Altdorf



Grand Admiral Saldana walked into the wardroom of what, in a few days, would be the newest BB in the GDN. Over 40,000 tons, with 9 15in guns it was the most powerful unit in the fleet...and still comparatively weaker than other battleships out there. The first new BB to be commissioned in 7 years. The trials period had been positively painful, with numerous teething problems that showed what the holiday had done to Dominion naval construction building processes. Worse, her sole sister, the Thunderer had had to have it's fitting-out period extended as problems discovered during the GT's trials were corrected.

The wardroom had flag officers from the Admiralty. Chairman of the Naval Committee Lars Lars. The program management staff from BuShips and BuOrd. The Contractor leadership from Ferguson-Hamilton. The Captain, XO, and department heads of the Galen Tyrol. And they had all brought their hangers-on. So the very crowded wardroom seemed to shudder as everyone stood when the Chairman of the Naval Staff entered.

"Sit down, I'm not the Patriarch." There were some dutiful chuckles and everyone returned to their seats. Obviously the head of the table was open, and Saldana sat.

"Well gentlemen, I am very, very pleased to see that the Tyrol is finally ready for action. I know that we've all seen a lot of blood, sweat, and tears...but hopefully in the future it will mostly be the schismatics who are bleeding." More dutiful chuckles. "It looks as if disaster has been adverted, but the silver lining is that the whole incident has served as a wakeup call for some members of the House...Lord Lars excluded, of course. " The leader of the Christian Democrats inclined his head. "Marshal Piper agrees that the army was not in a position to do much about the situation, and to that end the Army of Arabia will have an additional 50,000 men attached to it. The exact unit depositions are being drawn up, but it looks as if the first units will be the 12th Heavy Artillery(Mobile) Regiment and the 57th Light Cavalry. Both have already been ordered to prepare their men and equipment for transit." There were some nods. By and large Army's mobile heavy artillery regiments were derived from 9.2 in and 12in guns removed from decommissioned pre-dreadnoughts and armored cruisers. "Now, I believe Lord Lars has something to say...."

"Thank you Admiral." Lars Lars stood. "Gentlemen, I am pleased to report that last night we managed to squeeze an agreement from the finance committee. It seems as though our lack of a battleline was a bit too obvious even for some members of the committee to miss during the crisis. While the details have yet to be worked out, and order will be placed for 4 Centurion-class BBs and 4 Mercury BCs." There were some cheers, and Mess stewards could be seen trying to poke their head in from the Wardroom galley in an unobtrusive fashion. Lars Lars held up his hands. "The first two of each class will be laid down before the end of the year, and the second pair of, uh, pairs will be laid down as soon as the first group is launched. We're working out what lesser vessels will be ordered along with the capital ships. In addition a memorandum of understanding has been signed with the Manchu Kingdom for the purchase of 100 aeroplanes, of mixed advanced types, in order to greatly expand the Fleet Air Arm. The Archangel shall go to sea with a full airgroup, I promise you." More cheers. "Any questions? Yes you, ah, Commander?"

GUNS spoke "Sir, is the army getting anything out of this bill?"

A smile. "Well, I'm not on the Army Committee, so...but no. In fact, there are serious talks to reduce the size of the army by about 200,000 men, and use the savings to spur an re-armament process. To be blunt, the Dominion will have difficulty maintaining the naval increases and army upgrades otherwise. Next question...?

[Beowulf]

Nancowry Harbor

The ships had suddenly arrived. To a trained eye, they were obviously Manchurian, but were flying Grand Dominion flags. Fortunately, any spys that were there were unlikely to be trained. The ships were part of the 5th cruiser squadron, and the hastily painted text proclaimed some unlikely names. They were there to watch, and shadow any Soviet ships that tried to go to the East. But until notified that Soviet ships had passed through the Suez or decided to go the long way around, they'd mostly just stay and exercise.

Anping, Taiwan, China
The 3rd cruiser squadron hadn't been repainted. Neither was the 4th. The 3rd Cruiser squadron was some of the newest ships in the fleet, commissioned in 1920 and 1922. The 4th was older, and lighter. Much lighter. 12 ships in total, they presented a dire threat to any who tried to fight them.

NKID USSR. Official communique to the Kingdom of Manchuria.

It has come to our knowledge that you have not apologized for the wanton slaughter of communists, neither acknowledged a single Soviet demand issued in our prior note. We demand immediate apologies and release of communists in custody. Moreover, you have never even recognized the official government of the USSR as legitimate, or signed an agreement on the borders with our nation.

We demand such actions be taken immediately, or you will face the consequences.

Letter to the People's Commissariat for Foreign Affairs

We will not apologize for the detention of those who advocate the overthrow of our government. We would not expect you to apologize for the detention of pro-Tsarist counter-revolutionaries. There were no reasonable demands in your prior note, and as such, no acknowledgement is necessary.

With regards to your overthrow of the prior Regime: The King is dead, long live the King. The Tsar lost the Mandate of Heaven, and you have gained it. There is no lack of recognition of your goverment as the legitimate rulers of Russia. Your presumption that we have not recognized the new goverment is mistaken. Related to that, the Treaty of Nerchinsk would therefore be the still governing document as to the borders between your nation and mine. We see no need to change the borders, and as such no need to sign a new agreement.

For the King of Manchuria,
Dao Mei

[Karmic Knight]

Dear Sir,

We appreciate your most generous offer of personally traveling to our capital to discuss this situation in person. We would not consider such a thing necessary, especially for a man of your responsibilities, and are quite ready to discuss the situation with His Excellency the Ambassador Palmkoek.

The position of the Cascadian nation as to Australia remains the same, that the entirety of the continent is our's by lawful right, and that the Dutch East Indies Company, their situation understandably grave, nevertheless infringed upon our lawful territories.

That said, we recognize that your nation has spent treasure in making the main port area of Darwin a functioning city and port. Thus we would be quite willing to provide compensation to the government of your Union in exchange for a withdrawal from Darwin.

Regards,
Rachel MacKenzie, Secretary of State

Secretary of Sate MacKenzie,

I will leave the negotiation to the good Ambassador, then. I do have a compromise that I have left the specifics with the Ambassador, but I can outline in this letter to allow for a bit of knowledge before the meeting begins.

Cascadia wishes to maintain the territorial integrity outlined by a treaty or two, the specifics are not known to me personally. We wish to maintain the integrity of our word; we gave our word that we would protect the Dutch Exiles if they would support us. This is the situation we find ourselves in, I believe.

The compromise would be a joint control, with the legal territorial control being ceded to Cascadia, with the previously established Commission being expanded by three Cascadian appointed Commissioners, and a single tie-breaking Commissioner to be chosen by the Darwin populace. This would allow the Exiles to have their rights protected and Cascadia the clean image.

The troops stationed in the Top End are another matter that I wish to only briefly say the removal of them, either by the hand of The Hague or otherwise, would be problematic due to the nature of majority of the troops stationed there.

- Brandon Michaels, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress, Internal Security Minister, the Union of the Low Countries and Subsidiaries.

[Akhlut]

Diplomatic Telegram

To the Foreign Ministry of Mongolia,

On behalf of the Sultanate of Egypt I want to convey my great displeasure at hearing the words of your 'baron', Roman Ungern von Sternberg, at the Freedom Conference of Buenos Aires.

His remarks, particularly those concerning Jews, have a potential to inflame religious and ethnic strife in the Yishuv region which is, as you know, a protectorate of the Sultan of Sultans. His Exalted Majesty the Sultan looks most unfavourably upon those who would destabilize the fragile peace of His most eminent domains.

Was signed with all due regards,

On behalf of His Exalted Majesty the Sultan of Sultans,

Wazir ud-Daula [Minister of State] Abbas ibn Kareem aal-Filisteeni

Khan Angarag looked over the letter with a look of great distaste.

"That damned fool! I know I should have revoked his travel visa and put him on maneuver!"

Dearest Sir,

It is my greatest regret that Roman Ungern-Sternberg (as his name is on his military file) has said such things. His presence in Chilitina is completely unofficial and is in no way supported by the Mongolian government, but was instead a separate visit made by one of our political parties of which he associates with. Mongolia has no malice for the Jewish people and, frankly, has only the utmost repugnance towards Roman's bombastic rabble-rousing. Rest assured that once he returns to Mongolia, he is going to be put before a military tribunal to assess his fitness as an officer in the Mongolian army.

I offer my gravest apologies on Mongolia's behalf.

Sincerely,
Angarag, Khan of Mongolia

[Ma Deuce]

The Freedom Conference, Beunos Aires

Madagascar's prime minister listened to von Sternberg's tirade in silent disgust, and was relieved when the other members of the Mongolian delegation finally succeeded in muzzling him. He was becoming very uncomfortable being in the same room with some of the other individuals who were at the conference, so much that he was starting to wonder if attending it had been a good idea in the first place. He was certain that some of these crazies would lump him, a social democrat, in the same mold as the communists themselves. Given that one of his own brothers had died putting down Madagascar's Red revolt, he found that notion deeply offensive. Still he appreciated the passionate show of support made by the Spanish representative Gonzales. That might have been enough to sway enough of the others to his way of thinking, but the ultimatum made by the Soviets to Manchuria even as the conference was underway would not help his case for a pragmatic response, especially his idea for recognizing the legitimacy of the existing Communist governments as a political move. Still, he had to come away from this conference with the appearance he had accomplished something, or both his party and the Liberals would skewer him when he got home. After Morales had addressed the conference, Randriana was again given the floor. He decided he wouldn't dignify Sternberg's ravings with a response, nor those of the Swiss Conservative delegate, but rather focus entirely on the issues he had attended this conference to address:

"Prime Minister Morales, Honorable delegates: While I am pleased we have been able to agree on some measures in principle to contain the tide of Communism, it is obvious more work needs to be done to forge a united front among the assembled nations, even if there will always be differences in opinion among our ranks. As previously noted, the Kingdom of Madagascar supports the proposal of a mutual defense pact and intelligence sharing agency, and is willing to join a committee to forge these proposals into reality. The rising tensions between Manchuria and the USSR are deeply troubling, and Madagascar of course strongly condemns this aggressive Soviet behavior, as well as any ultimatum by any nation that demands another to alter domestic policy on threat of force. However, we are in no position to directly assist Manchuria: Our standing army is almost completely composed of static coastal defense and fortress units, and our reserves would take some time to mobilize, and require the presence of our standing army to fight effectively. Furthermore, any war between the Soviet Union and Manchuria would likely be mainly confined to land, so our navy wouldn't be much help either. Volunteers from among our citizens may be willing to risk their lives to defend Manchuria, however.

Even in light of these developments, I am disappointed that more of the honorable delegates did not see the political merits of extending conditional recognition to the Communist nations, as is favored by Spain and ourselves: even if it does no good, I cannot see how it would hurt. While Madagascar will not insist that this be required by any agreement produced by this conference, we will not sign any agreement that requires signatories to refuse recognition to Communist nations, since Madagascar still believes this to be a politically advantageous move for our cause and intend to do so on our own regardless of what other members of this conference decide. While I regret I will not be able to stay long enough to personally negotiate a formal treaty, I have forwarded all the necessary information to our embassy here in Beunos Aires, and our ambassador will be empowered to negotiate on behalf of His Majesty's government. I am hopeful we can have a formal agreement in place by the end of the year. Thank you."

[Evincer]

Firing Range



Marshall Gutierrez found his airplane headphones most helpful at the Huanuco Gun Club. The rattle of recoil-operated shotguns and carbines was puncuated by the massive blasts from a nearby Mosin-Nagant carbine. Gutierrez observed the carbine for a moment. There had barely been enough rifles to equip the worker's militia at the aircraft factory he had just visited. That visit, of course, had led him to his trip to the gun club.

Monardo! he cried, seeing the man in a plaid shirt and holding a Winchester carbine.
Gutierrez! Monardo was carrying on their informal tradition of using each other's family names.

"Two O'Clock already," started Gutierrez, waving his arms at the mounds and berms around the firing range, "Why did you begin so late in the day?"
"The range only opens at noon, my friend! What if people have to attend Church?"
Gutierrez absently remembered the religiousty of much of the population.
"Of course, of course. I obviously have been missing my visits to the firing range."
"It is your mandatory duty, my friend! Have you been falsifying your range logs again?"
"I am the Air Force Chief of Staff! I have better things to do - ah, let it slide! I have come to you because I have a task."

Monardo stopped, and looked up towards Gutierrez.

"As our primary buyer of European designs" he continued, "I need you to reverse your activities. I need you to sell some of our aircraft to the Levant."
"What?"
"Palestine, or Israel, or whatever they are calling it. A cousin of one of the workers at Llamushin heard that they have become interested in Portugal's designs. Specifically, the autogyro and their "heli-copter." They have de la Cierva! You know, the aircraft that we're copying?"

"I should know! I bought the prototype for us. We should have snatched up that Spaniard when we had the chance! Imagine, Portugal stealing someone who could have immigrated here!"
"Well, we have already begun the design program. We expect to have a production model by the end of the year," expounded Gutierrez.
"Nothing too sophisticated, of course," he added.

"I will see if the Israelis are interested in such a design."
"And if not, they will at least be interested in our Victoria transport. See if you can reach an agreement."

[CmdrWilkens]

Secretariat of the Army seeks to refine the Modelo 1908

With the recent push to motorize more and more the Army planers are looking to future conflicts where the historic shortage of supplies n the front line will be solved by increasingly reliable mechanical supply troops. Foreseeing this the intention of the Secretariat has been recently revealed as attempting to re-engineer the Modelo 1908 for greater capacity and sustainability. While Mexico remains, to all observers, the only nation to equip so many of its troops with a fully automatic rifle planners worry that with a hot of new designs on the horizon the 6 round capacity of the 1901 and 1908 variant will be insufficient.

A general requirement has been for a single units capacity of at least 20 rounds along with refinements that will allow the unit to operate better in wet tropical or sub tropical conditions. While the existing stock performed admirably during the Hispaniola and Antiguan campaigns they showed defects whenever heavy rains beset our Troops. Officials stated that they expect the Dirección General de Industria Militar del Ejército to have a working prototype in the next year with field tests tentatively planned for late 1927.


/OOC Mexico really did get the first automatic service rifle out there, since I didn't have a revolution/civil war to fight in the early 1900s I'm assuming total adoption of the 1908 model Mondragon rifle 8 rounds of 7mm as the default clip. What I don't have, yet, is the 20 rounds box magazine variant or the LMG conversion that out shot the BAR back in the day...those will come on the market sometime around 1928 or so.

[K. A. Pital]

We will not apologize for the detention of those who advocate the overthrow of our government. We would not expect you to apologize for the detention of pro-Tsarist counter-revolutionaries. There were no reasonable demands in your prior note, and as such, no acknowledgement is necessary.

With regards to your overthrow of the prior Regime: The King is dead, long live the King. The Tsar lost the Mandate of Heaven, and you have gained it. There is no lack of recognition of your goverment as the legitimate rulers of Russia. Your presumption that we have not recognized the new goverment is mistaken. Related to that, the Treaty of Nerchinsk would therefore be the still governing document as to the borders between your nation and mine. We see no need to change the borders, and as such no need to sign a new agreement.

For the King of Manchuria,
Dao Mei

NKID USSR. Official communique to the Kingdom of Manchuria.
The matter of communists detained is solely the internal matter of Manchuria; however, their summary execution without trial is unacceptable by any means.

We of course cannot directly influence your policies, but we can assure you that our condemnation can take the forms of strong economic punitive measures against your nation, which would be quite probably upheld around the socialist nations of the world. The border regime between the Soviet Union and Manchuria is hereby made more strict and all trade and travel ceased.

As for the recognition of government, it always requires a treaty per the accepted process. Not a border treaty par se, but a recognition treaty at the very least. Do note that the Soviet Union does not posess any embassies in Manchuria, neither does your nation posess one in the Soviet Union. This, combined with the lack of recognition treaty, is a strong evidence that no such recognition exists in practice, even as it might exist in the minds of your leaders.

The Treaty of Nerchinsk governed the borders of Imperial Russia. It no longer exists, and the Soviet Union does not consider itself bound by this treaty with a state that has taken absolutely no steps to recognize our government. These borders require clarification, as the Soviet Union hereby disputes the Manchurian right to several northern territories around the mouth of river Amur.

We believe that these territories were seized by your government illegaly, using the weakness of revolution in Russia.

People's Commisar for International Affairs, Signed:
G.V. Chicherin

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Soviet-Manchurian border, several hundred miles south-west of Ayan.

The Manchurian trenches, sparse as they were in the creeping permafrost and bad terrain, held their inhabitants under constant stress. With the recent rise in Soviet-Manchurian tensions, the soldiers were ever vigilant, guarding their trenches.

Suddenly a bullet whizzed past them. Phew-phew...

Result: Russian provocations have started. Diplomatically, Russia plays the Japanese game of the 1930s (i.e. "This super small patch of land was captured by you illegally").

[Fingolfin_Noldor]

Exarch Korolev,

Greetings and Salutations. I wish your emperor good health.

The Grand Dominion, as always, is ready to discuss matters of trade and conduct with her neighbors. I will be glad to send a special envoy to Constantinople for discussion purposes. Due to the current international situation, the envoy may be delayed in reaching the Golden Horn until appropriate transit arrangements will be made. It is likely that a GDN warships, either a coastal defense battleship or cruiser, will be assigned as transport. This is pending authorization from your government, of course. I am sure that the envoy and ship's crew will also like to make a few ports of call, in order to extend our good will and cultural exchange between our two great peoples.

Yours in Christ

M.B. Bucher
Lord Fairfax
Lord Protector of the Grand Dominion of the Indies

Greetings Lord Fairfax,

The Byzantine Empire would welcome your envoy to our capital of Constantinople at the earliest convenience. The Egyptian Sultanate may send a representative to our talks, if they are willing as well, to perhaps discuss matters of mutual significance. You are free to make a few ports of call as you so wish.

Peace be with you,

Emperor Alexios IV Komnenos.
Emperor of the Imperium Romanum

[Raj Ahten]

Chilitina

Besides a heavy police presence, Chilitina had taken much stronger steps to secure the Freedom conference. The army had decided to run a large series of exercises along the border with the PBC and even some near the border of Cisplatina. The navy had also put most of its ships to sea. The majority of the fleet was in international waters off the coast of Brazil while a smaller squadron of mostly older ships patrolled near the PBC. The official line was this was all just a "series of routine training maneuvers ." Meanwhile pro Morales newspapers were saying the communists must be watched lest they attempt to meddle with the conference. Opposition papers called the exercises and fleet patrols ill advised acts of intimidation.

[Siege]

al-Aqabah Military School
Southern Jordan



The Medium Mark IIs of F Squadron, 33rd Armored Cavalry Division Qowwat al-Sa'eqah thundered across the barren, rolling hills of the Quweira Breaks. Like water they kept to the low ground, following the folds of dead ground and avoiding the crests and ridgelines that would expose them to detection or direct fire.

The 'Lightning Force' was an elite armored formation, part of the al-Fursan al-Hammur who formed the Sultan's very own Praetorian Guard. Started as a select company of companion cavalry by a medieval Sultan the commanders of the 'Red Knights' benefitted from literally centuries of experience with cavalry tactics, which gave them a very real edge over their enemy. As they approached their objective they swung into line and wheeled left, steel tracks biting into the arid soil as they manoeuvred hard.

Charging the objective, the enemy were slow reacting and for 45 seconds the squadron ran riot. Machineguns and 3 pounder guns pumped out rapid fire at the startled artillery vehicles and their protecting light infantry. Smoke rose into the stunningly blue sky as vehicles shuddered to a halt.

Then the battle changed. A Mark II was hit by a 2 pounder field gun, dirty grey smoke began rising from its rear deck. The left flanking troop killed an approaching recce vehicle and machine-gunned dozens of fleeing artillerymen, then themselves came face to face with a group of lumbering Medium Mark Cs armed with long six-pounder guns. The remaining Mark IIs took to their heels, running for the cover they had abandoned. Another died with shocking speed before they reached the dubious safety of the shallow valley.

Back in the low-flying observation zeppelin the commander of F Squadron watched his men fighting their mock battle below with a collection of other officers. As the attackers withdrew he lowered his binoculars and sighed. "I just hope that we're simulating those dastardly Byzantines correcty this time. I hate to do all this training to find out everything we're trying is completely wrong during the yearly wargames..."


Results: The Sultanate practices armored warfare.

[Setzer]

Voice of the Worker

Construction begins on new rail lines.

The new construction is intended to provide greater access to and from the Congo river basin. While several lines have already been laid, the increase in prosperity thanks to benevolent Socialist rule necessitates more rail lines to accommodate the larger productivity of the factories and farms.

UCR Navy begins new joint exercise

In light of recent imperialist rhetoric about violently crushing the World Socialist Revolution, new steps have been taken to ensure the safety of the Workers. New training operations with the Brazilians will take place in international waters, with the ultimate goal of providing greater protection against possible Imperialist blockades.

[Coyote]

He'Kirya Military Headquarters
Tel-Aviv





"Bad news, Yoni," Arik said to his son, "There will be no Portugal for you."
"Somehow, I felt that would be the case," he said. He was only moderately disappointed; he had no expertise in flying, himself, and was not qualified to make judgments on engineering regarding any aircraft, much less autogyros. "So, back to the unit, then?" he asked.

"Actually, something else," Arik said. "We're received word that there is going to be a major Communist rally in Ashkelon. Word just recently got out. Apparently, some big luminary from the Soviet Union will be visiting. Rumors say it could be Leon Trotsky himself."

"What do the Communists want with the Yishuv?" Yonatan asked. He was not afraid of the Communists, nor did their family even have a problem with Communist ideals, and in fact a great deal of the Yishuv had been colonized based on emigres from communist and socialist groups seeking to expand their live sin the new-old land. What they didn't want at the moment was someone rocking the boat for the sake of rocking the boat. The Yishuv was still a fledgling entity in many ways, and at the mercy of the Sultanate's humor. The railroad track-laying and factory work had not yet begun; it would be easy to pull the rug out from underneath them if the Sultan was insulted.

"They are out here, working hard, and trying to build a new place for themselves, same as anyone else," his father said, "To an extent I cannot blame them. I am even sympathetic to some of their ideals. Treating working people with dignity, well, it's the ethical thing to do. But we're worried that people will get riled up and do something crazy. Ever read Emile Zola?"

Yonatan blinked at the sudden change of subject. "Who?"
"Emile Zola, a French writer. He wrote a whole series, a couple dozen books, about a family in France. One of the most famous is a book called Germinal. In it is a Russian expat called Souvarine, who intends to fight for the rights of workers with violence and sabotage. He takes an idea with sympathetic beginnings and turns it into a violent monstrosity."

"So you want to make sure that no... Souvarine... comes to the fore in Ashkelon," Yonatan said. "Very well. When do I leave?"
"Tomorrow morning," Arik said, "You are not undercover, feel free to tell people whatever you want if they ask. They are not an enemy, they are our fellow citizens. We just don't want someone to get all wrapped up in revolutionary fervor and do something crazy."

"Okay, aba," Yonatan said.
"Good. Now make your plans and get ready to go. I have a meeting with the rest of the military leaders about some new rifle they wants us to look at. We may finally get rid of those old 1888-pattern rifles."

Yonatan left, and promised to stop by the house to have dinner with his mother. Arik didn't know if he was going to be back in time or not. He went instead to the central meeting room which served as an ersatz government assembly hall in the absence of a purpose-built capitol building. A government meeting was just breaking up, and the military leaders were waiting to use the hall as the politicians were closing their notes and talking aloud.

"So we are going to publicly accept the Mongolian apology, then?" Ze'ev Jabotinsky asked.
"We are," the Prime Minister, Itzhak Ben-Zvi said. "I can think of no better way to refute that maniac's rantings than to invite a Mongolian delegation here to consider opening a trade mission with the Yishuv."

"Do we even have anything to trade that the Mongolians will want?" Jabotinsky asked.
"We don't know yet," Ben-Zvi replied, "I know nothing about Mongolia or Mongolians, except that they used to scare the hell out of both Russians and Chinese. And the Russians and Chinese may be at war soon, so maybe the Mongolians would like a nice, safe out of the way place to store vital records or buld things for them. Our population is small, but we have many people who are unemployed or under-employed, especially a lot of engineers and researchers."

The politicans were getting ready to leave, but Colonel Ariel Shaham listened carefully as they walked out.

"What about that airplane research in Portugal?" Jabotinsky asked.
"We will send someone from the Air Force. I'll get with David about that," he said as they walked down the hall. Finally, the military leaders filed into the room.

"What was that all about?" Arik asked the commander of the Haifa garrison.
"That Freedom Conference thing," the man replied, "A Mongolian back-bencher got into some damnfool anti-Semitic tirade; now the Mongolians have written a letter of apology. It reached us at the same time that the Sultanate demanded an apology for the insult to us."

"Most of the governments these days are more enlightened than in the past," Arik said. "Maybe the Mongolians will bring more business to our humble territory. So. A new rifle? What is this about?"

In front, David Ben-Gurion, the Defense Minister got ready to give his briefing. "It's been a fun day for politics, gentlemen," he said as the officers all settled in. "We've had some good news lately, with the railroad and the ship-building orders, and now that we will have see some economic growth, there's been something I have been wanting to deal with for some time. Rifle standardization," he said, and he flipped back the cover on his first poster. It was a poster of the Yishuv itself, with the cities in bold lettering. Next to each city was a small silhouette of the type of rifle each city command used.

"As you can see, most of us are using the German Gewehr-88 bolt-action rifle," Ben-Gurion said. "An excellent rifle for its time, but it is old and showing signs of age. Most of the ones we have were surplus to begin with, and we got them for almost nothing so the Germans could empty out their stores.

"But that was a few years ago, during the first few aliyot, and more recent immigrants, expecially those from America, have funded the purchase of the M1903 Springfield rifle from America. These are superior rifles in every way, but they are few in number and expensive to import. What we need to do is standardize our rifles, and that means we will buy the latest from the Germans, the Gewehr-98 from Mauser." Ben-Gurion flipped back the cover for his next poster, which showed the comparative advantages of the three rifles: G88, G98, and Springfield.

"We need to replace the G-88 with one of these two," Ben-Gurion said. "And we already have a strong trade partnership with the Germans. The Springfield is a rugged rifle, but the Mauser rifle is lighter. From an infantryman's perspective, that counts for a lot, especially during long marches in an army that is not motorized. The cartridge is lighter, slightly, than the 30.06 Springfield, but it has about the same knockdown power and reaches a bit father."

"Not only that," Ben-Gurion said, "But the Mauser-98 takes the 7.92x57 ammo we already have on stock." The small collection of officers that Arik knew to be 'pro-Springfield' frowned. They knew that this day was coming, but they'd hoped to either convince the government to buy Springfields as the universal service rifle for the Yishuv-- or at least forestall the day they had to give up their Springfields.

"The 7.92 in that size," Arik added, "Is also useful in the MG-15 machinegun, which is something we might want to consider as a replacement for our collection of different machineguns throughout the Yishuv."

"The Lewis gun and the Vickers are much better than the MG-15," said Colonel Yosef Gernstein, of the Tzfat garrison. "If knockdown power is a concern for you."
"Yes, but the MG-15 is only twelve and a half kilograms," Arik pointed out, "The Lewis gun is only slightly heavier at 13 kilos; the Vickers weighs in at 15 kilograms and can be as much as 23. The MG-15 is lighter, uses the same cartridge as the -98, and can more readily be mounted on aircraft."

"The ammunition is also usable in the Spandau heavy machinegun, the M-08," said Yifal Silbermann, the leader of the Jerusalem garrison. "We are seriously lacking in machinegun capacity overall, really, and standardizing would be a good way to expand capacity while saving money in the long run."

"If we could convince Mauser Waffenfabrik to open a munitions plant here..." Arik said.
"One thing at a time, Arik!" Ben-Gurion said with a laugh.



The following note is sent:

To the Mongolian Foreign Office


To the people of Mongolia, we bid you greetings.

It is on this day we have received diplomatic telegrams from both the Mongolian leadership and the Sultanate of Egypt with regards to the most unfortunate words used by the Baron Roman Ungern von Sternberg. Suffice to say that the note of apology from the Mongolian government on behalf of the Baron is of great relief to us and, we feel, sufficient to heal the pain caused by this outburst. After discussion, we of the Yishuv feel that this is a reflection of the Baron himself and not that of the Mongolian people, with whom we have no historical quarrels.

That said, let us propose that a Mongolian trade delegation visit the Yishuv and discuss the possibility of opening relations between our realms. We can think of no better way to refute the old ways of thinking than to encourage positive contact and commerce together.

A copy is also sent to Wazir ud-Daula [Minister of State] Abbas ibn Kareem aal-Filisteeni.








Results:
Yonatan Shaham will not go to Portugal, but will go to Ashkelon to observe the Communist rally there.
A system of modernizing and standardizing infantry rifles will adopt the Mauser Gewehr-98 for Yishuv service.
Someone from the Air Force (yet to be determined) will seek permission from Portugal to see the gyrocopter experiments.
A diplomatic note is sent back to Mongolia expressing satisfaction with the apology, and inviting Mongolian trade reps.

*** *** *** *** *** ***

Yarkon River
Outskirts of Tel-Aviv








"Nice place," Emil Rathenau said, looking around.
"You suggested it," Andy reminded him. She was going through the picnic basket and approving wholeheartedly of what Emil had brought. Especially the wine.
"I had only gone past it on my survey," he said. "Once the construction gets started, the railroad bridge will go in right down there," he said, pointing downstream. "I suppose the area here will get built up."

"Shops and flats," Andy said with a shrug. "I hope they build more nice places to eat."
"Well, I don't know," Emil said. "I hope they keep some of this area unspoilt. It would make a nice place to picnic, after all." He laughed.

"So, how was the trip to Ashkelon? Everything copacetic?"
"It was," Emil said, popping the cork and pouring the wine. "They are overjoyed to get the work for the ships. It is a funny place; the whole town seems to be run by Communists, eh?"

"Commy-nists?" Andy said, her eyes wide. "You actually met some? Here? Says you!" She imagined fierce, beetle-browed Cossacks tearing up the town.
"There are a lot of communists living in the Yishuv," Emil said, "I thought they were all in the interior, in the kibbutzen. But the town is organized by the labor federation, the, ah, Histadrut," he said, struggling with the word.

"Wow, commies, right next door," Andy said. "What're they like?"
"Like anyone else, really," Emil said with a shrug. "They just have different politics, is all. I met a Russian fellow, an Arab, and a young woman."
"She pretty?" Andy teased.
"Actually, rather striking. Her family moved here from Russia as well; I think there's something between her and the other Russian fellow."

"So, they like the train idea?" Andy asked. They spread out their bread and cheese, and began snacking.
"They like it because it brings them work," Emil said, "The train will be how they get their supplies to town, and how they get their manufactured goods back out of town. Apart from that, I think they'd rather be left alone. The two men were nice, but the woman, she was not friendly to me at all."

"Well, good for me, then," Andy said with a mischevious sparkle in her eye. "Why she such a wet blanket to ya?"
"Because I represent 'capitalist oppression' to her, I guess," Emil said with a smile. "But she still gave me a flyer, though. They have a fellow coming to talk to them, a Leon Trotsky. I've heard of him, he's a big man in the Communist movement in Russia."

"What he's coming to give a big speech or somethin'? All about commy-nist politickin' , I suppose?"
"Oh, I think he's just going to rally them up, make them feel like they're an important part of the Communist international brotherhood or something."
"It kinda sounds like the Masons or somethin'," Andy said. "They got secret handhshakes and rings?"
"Well, if they have secret handshakes, they didn't share it with me," Emil said. "And I didn't notice any rings."

"So I guess you got permission for your railroad, now, from the Big Cheese in Cairo," Andy said, changing the subject. "So what ya gonna do now?"
"Well, the original plan was to go back to Berlin," Emil said, "But now I'm trying to talk to my boss to see if I can stay here in the Yishuv and maybe oversee the project."
"Ya know what? I think I'd like that," Andy said.
"I think I would too."

They kissed.

"When do you find out about if you can stay here or not?" Andy asked.
"I'm sending a telegram tomorrow to ask for instructions, and I'll ask then. I may have to go back to Berlin for a few days, but if I can stay here, I'll be back within a couple weeks, at most."
"You better write me some letters if you do go back to Berlin," she said with a fingertip pointed right at his nose tip. He kissed her fingertip and smiled at her.
"I will," he promised, "And you better reply to them. I will probably be able to send telegrams as well."
"Well, now ya done it, 'cause I'll be expecting that, now," she said.
"Count on it," he said.








***

[Siege]

Diplomatic Telegram
To the Yishuv Foreign Office

Salutations,

With great interest and some concern has the Sultanate learned of your intention to invite the communist speaker Leon Trotsky from Russia to speak at a gathering of workers in Ashkelon. Even though His Exalted Majesty encourages a free exchange of ideas, some concern exists that the invitation of a known revolutionary will spark for unrest in the Yishuv autonomous region.

It is because of this concern that it is my solemn duty to inform you that the Army of the Levant will go to a heightened state of alert for the duration of the visit. This is a precautionary measure with which we intend no disrespect or cause alarm.

It has also come to our attention that your military forces are seeking to standardize their long arms. We cordially invite the Yishuv self-defense militias to take a look at the Model 1922 Carbine produced by Siddiqui Mechanical Industries, and the KMW .303 M-1 water-cooled machinegun.

Cordially,

Wazir al-'Amala [Minister for the Interior] Habib Maysa al-Jameel

[Lascaris]

Chilitina

Besides a heavy police presence, Chilitina had taken much stronger steps to secure the Freedom conference. The army had decided to run a large series of exercises along the border with the PBC and even some near the border of Cisplatina. The navy had also put most of its ships to sea. The majority of the fleet was in international waters off the coast of Brazil while a smaller squadron of mostly older ships patrolled near the PBC. The official line was this was all just a "series of routine training maneuvers ." Meanwhile pro Morales newspapers were saying the communists must be watched lest they attempt to meddle with the conference. Opposition papers called the exercises and fleet patrols ill advised acts of intimidation.

"What the damn Argies think they are doing mobilizing their whole fleet and sending it off our coast with no notice?" grumbled president Alejandro Sneider at the news of the fleet moves.

"It's supposed to be aimed at...protecting this Freedom conference of theirs from Brazil." his navy minister helpfully interjected.

"How exactly is this being done by a naval mobilization and army moves? The damn commies would send their own fleet to seize Buenos Aires or sink the delegates ships? No way. You'd have to be mentally retarded to consider it even remotely plausible for the Brazilians to be doing so. DISNA?"

The spymaster that wasn't looked up. "Their land border with Brazil leads to a few months marching distance of jungle and useless territory. The same could be said of our own territory in the chaco...were it not for the possibility of oil being there. So knowing he can't really threaten Brazil there and knowing the Brazilians know this he either does this for PR or we are the target. Same for the fleet coming north. A decent patrol on the Rio Plata would be already excessive in that direction. A fleet off Brazil and thus Cisplatina makes no sense. Given that we are between Argieland and Brazil and a naval war given the realities of geography would be a very bad idea for the Argie trade... again makes no sense.

So the only logical conclusions are that the fellow is either blowing empty air to look a good anticommunist, uses the Brazilians as a smokescreen to aim at us or is an idiot. Dismissing the last case..."

"Send the fleet out to watch over the Argies. Sorry to conduct non programed manouvres to test its response times and readiness levels I meant. And put on alert the units in the Western Paraguay military district. Yes I know Porfyrio it's not very likely." he stopped his foreign minister.

"Still it's a crazy world so a little paranoia never hurn anyone"

[Beowulf]

Defense Line Yat
along the Hailar He
North Western Manchuria

"This sucks! We're out here digging while they're inside playing cards."

"Ours is not to reason why."

"Yeah, yeah."

The works were a couple hundred yards behind the line proper. Their little section was being dug out for a bunker, one of four that would hold a platoon in total. They would be connected by tunnels, and armored in concrete and dirt. People don't give dirt enough credit as armor goes. It's cheap, it's able to effective absorb nearly any shot that doesn't ricochet up off it, and it's easy to work with. The wall that would be facing the front would be entirely covered in dirt. This restricted the guns to only firing to the sides, but also effectively required those same guns to be attacked from the sides. This was especially useful against guns that had to be moved, then rotated into the correct direction to fire.

There were three bunkers along the line. Each would carry the newer 1.6t guns, which provided more punch than the 1.2t guns that were mounted in the older bunkers of the line. There would actually be a pair of guns, one facing to the left, and the other right, as you looked across the border. Each would be in it's own dedicated room, seperated from the each other, and the rest of the bunker by a thick concrete wall. Additionally, there was another pair of .5t machine guns, again in it's own room, one to the left, and one to the right. A third .5t HMG was mounted in a coupla on top, which was again, it's own little room. Each bunker had a door to the outside, located to the rear, so that they couldn't be hit from the front. However, just in case, they were also located so that the neighboring bunkers could cover them with fire.

The design had been created such that the cannon could be changed out for 2.5t guns if the threat eventually reached such levels. That was projected to be a while hence however. The next bunker over was finished being dug out, and cinderblocks were being laid down, to form an integral form for the concrete to come. The diggers were creating the tunnel back to the rear bunker, already nearing completion in terms of structure. That had oddly been a priority. Or rather, it would be odd if it weren't for the fact that the mess was located there. Unlike the poor sods up in the original line, these troops would have a real kitchen.

Also to be located in the rear bunker was a set of real artillery. 3.5t gun-howitzers and 4t mortars made up the gun power of this bunker. A pair of each was considered sufficient. Each bunker complex was grouped with 3 others into a company. Three companies along with the anti-aircraft battery to be located several hundred yards further back, made up a battalion. Four battalions to a regiment, with two regiments to the brigade.

Behind the front line, similar in distance back from the line as the divisional fortresses, were to be built an additional eight fortresses to hold a battalion of troops each. Each held a heavy gun, as well as numerous supporting guns. Together, 2 brigades plus the battalion fortresses (as a third brigade) made up a new fortress division. In total, 5 additional divisions were being raised along what was possibly the longest fortified border in the world. Soon, there would be 14 active divisions, and 8 reserve fortress divisions guarding the north and west border.

--
Open Letter to the Soviet Government
New York Times
April 23rd, 1925

NKID USSR. Official communique to the Kingdom of Manchuria.
The matter of communists detained is solely the internal matter of Manchuria; however, their summary execution without trial is unacceptable by any means.

We of course cannot directly influence your policies, but we can assure you that our condemnation can take the forms of strong economic punitive measures against your nation, which would be quite probably upheld around the socialist nations of the world. The border regime between the Soviet Union and Manchuria is hereby made more strict and all trade and travel ceased.

As for the recognition of government, it always requires a treaty per the accepted process. Not a border treaty par se, but a recognition treaty at the very least. Do note that the Soviet Union does not posess any embassies in Manchuria, neither does your nation posess one in the Soviet Union. This, combined with the lack of recognition treaty, is a strong evidence that no such recognition exists in practice, even as it might exist in the minds of your leaders.

The Treaty of Nerchinsk governed the borders of Imperial Russia. It no longer exists, and the Soviet Union does not consider itself bound by this treaty with a state that has taken absolutely no steps to recognize our government. These borders require clarification, as the Soviet Union hereby disputes the Manchurian right to several northern territories around the mouth of river Amur.

We believe that these territories were seized by your government illegaly, using the weakness of revolution in Russia.

People's Commisar for International Affairs, Signed:
G.V. Chicherin

We will not further respond to your baseless accusations of executions without trial, which is ironic, in that government actors of the Soviet Union shot the prior Ambassador to Russia, as a "Class Enemy", during the Revolution. Furthermore, the replacement mission was turned away at the border for the same reason. We do not know why the Soviet Union has not seen fit to send a replacement mission for the disgraced Ambassador of the Tsar, but such makes your claim that recognition does not exist laughable on the face.

We question your understanding of the process of diplomatic recognition, as such is a unilateral act, and not requiring any treaty. We dispute that treaties can be abrogated so easily, and declare that so long as the Treaty of Nerchinsk is not recognized, the Kingdom of Manchuria will not find itself liable to any other treaty signed by both Russia and the Kingdom of Manchuria with respect to enforcement with the Soviet Union.

Lastly, the goverment of Manchuria has no knowledge whatsoever of a river named Amur. As such, we cannot possibly understand what the Soviet Union is disputing.

For the King of Manchuria,
Dao Mei

--

Soviet Far East
Ayan
200 miles, give or take a couple, from the Manchurian border

"Comrade! A Manchurian!"

"Shoot him!"

The Soviet private fired his Mosin-Nagant. His target fell, and began cursing in fluent Russian, before expiring.

[Bluewolf]

Throne Room
Forbidden City
Beijing, China

"Wang Hui Kien of Manchuria!" the attendant exclaimed, as the King of Manchuria walked into the room. He stopped dozens of feet away, and bowed deeply at the waist.

"Sheng Shang, I have recieved your note. We have much to talk about."

"Yes. The Khan of Mongolia has sent me a note. You have brought one of your generals We trust?"

At the question, the attendant opened the door again. "Shang Jiang Yao of Manchuria!" The General in elaborate dress uniform walked in, stopping behind the King, before dropping to his knees, and bowing until his head reached the floor. He then returned to his standing position. It could be noted that the sword that would normally be buckled around his waist was missing.

"Please, come closer and sit." The Emperor gestured to an attendant, who then opened the door, and had a table brought in. The Emperor pushed the letter on the table across to the King. "The Khan is apparently a fool. He does not believe that when We say that we look upon fighting in Manchuria poorly, We mean it. I have heard that you have already begun mobilizing, on suspicious both from the foolish letter the Soviets have sent, as well as the disappearence of men of military age from the East. This letter from the Khan confirms that the Soviets are preparing for war. And that he is as well. Bring in Tian Zhi-De." The attendant opened the door, and another General in equally elaborate dress uniform walked in. He kept his sword. He bowed the same as the other General before walking forward to the table.

"Yes, Sheng Shang."

"We have need to plan the defense of Manchuria. Come here, and help us plan. Yao, where do you have troops?"

"Sheng Shang, we have on the northern border, east of the Heilong Jiang, 3 fortress divisions. Two are on defense line Yat, one to the rear, at defense line Yi. Supporting them is the 1st Mountain Corps, with 3 infantry divisions, and the 3rd Reinforced Infantry Corps, with 3 infantry divisions, and an attached tank brigade. An additional Reserve Infantry Corps is to be covering them.

"Northwest, we have 4 fortress divisions on defense line Yat, with an additional 4 divisions being recalled into Yi. Mobile forces include 2 more Reinforced Infantry Corps, and 6 additional Reserve Infantry Corps.

"It's the western border that's the problem. We have 2 fortress divisions located there, but the reserve divisions haven't yet been called up. We'll have to do that, but with the summer campaign season coming, they may not be ready before the assault. The last Reinforced Infantry Corps is covering that front, along with an additional two reserve corps. There is of course, the last division covering down into the border between us, so as to stop them from invading the Middle Kingdom and trying to turn the corner of the defenses. It is unlikely, though possible for them to hit that section, at least initially.

"The western border is where we're expecting the largest push. They don't have to make an opposed river crossing, which is possibly the worst invasion scenario possible. We're relocating another Reinforced Corps from Korea to cover that front, as well as another infantry corps.

The Emperor nodded rubbing his head and looking at the note on the table.

“Tian, what is the current status of our army?” The Emperor said.

"Sheng Shang, our army is mostly ready for any such conflict with the only real current engagements been in Tibet where 2 are currently fighting the rebellions there. We have 20.000 men near the Russian-Manchurian border and another 2 divisions near the Southern Mongolian border.

1 Division is currently ready near the Western Russian border

Several fortress divisions are posted around there yet some may be up to full strength. I recommend we start to move 8 divisions north near Manchuria and further 5 divisions towards Mongolia.”

The Emperor was silent to process the information and nodded again.

“If this turns into a full scale war then we may need more.” He paused and gazed at the Manchurians before looking back at Tian. “Will raising the second tier be needed in case this eventuality comes to pass?”

"There is a fair chance it may be” Tian replied. “We do not know how much manpower Russia is willing to commit to this ar nor do we know how much Mongolia will respectably. The second tier could be raised within 2 to 3 weeks Sheng Shang. This short period of time could prove useful. Even if we don’t use them in a fight their presence may be enough to make the USSR think twice about her imperialistic ventures and make Mongolia take a step back before aiding the USSR “
“It is to be done then Tian.” The Emperor said. “I will be also soliciting with Naval Command to deal with any sea based matters. Now though I reply to the current offending countries.”

Spoiler

To the Khan of Mongolia

Your interests seem to be misguided ones which is disappointing. You seem intent on backing the USSR without any real thought on what you agreeing to or the consequences of your foolish actions. Instead of finding a productive peaceful solution you seem ready to take the rifle and the sword to help provide your needs. We will not stand for this thinly veiled land grab. Manchuria is a state we often trade with. On top of that Manchuria provides in tribute and other dealings. Letting this nation become devoured by the greedy bear that is the USSR while you help provide such a bear with its helpings is something we won’t take lightly.

If you continue with your current course actions then trade with Mongolia, any trade be it import or export will be blocked no matter what the goods are. If this was not enough to deter you from your path of warfare, we ourselves will take the rifle and the sword to defend our interests and the state that has provided so much. I am sure you consider warfare a serious affair; even more so when your opponent is right next to your border.

So leave the choice with you. Submit to the whims of the USSR to solve your problems and face the loss of trade and war on your own doorstop or see reason and try and resolve this peacefully. We may even help you in solving your port problem.

The Emperor of China

To the Communist Leader of the USSR

Consider this a final chance for a peaceful solution to this crisis. We will not stand for what is a land grab of Manchurian territory to satisfy your own interests. This will not be tolerated and if you continue on your current course of action you may find yourself on the road to war with the Empire of China with all its costs. Manchuria is a tribute giving state and a trade partner. An assault on Manchuria is an assault on us.

However the final chance for peace is still there if you desire a peaceful solution. We will be willing to discuss this with you and Mongolia. We sincerely hope you will not use pretty barbarism to take what you want like a pack of dogs steals from a kill.

The Emperor of China

[CmdrWilkens]

Breaking News
Riots in Granada



Early reports are just now rolling in regarding a sudden outburst of violence during a student led protest rally here in Granada, Nicaragua. Student members of the Manola Cuadra College were protesting the Mexican presence in Nicaragua when a disturbance, not yet identified, set the Gendarmes and protesters to violent confrontation. We will bring you more as the story develops.


*Update* Local officials have indicated that Guarde Nationale units have been activated and are moving to join the Federales and Gendarmes who were already on the scene and are working to control the situation. Updates as they arrive.

[K. A. Pital]

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Special Far Eastern Army headquarters, Chita.

- Well, just look at this nonsense Vasya, - laughed one of the lieutenants. - "To the communist leader of the USSR!" Damn, the Chinese sure are funny.

- It's not funny when you'll see the Chinese hordes pour through the border and into Manchuria, - noted Marshal Tukhachevskiy with disgust. - I am positively unimpressed by their meddling, and so is the Circle. Their pathetic satellite Manchuria is now probably crying for help in the Forbidden City. They're also willing to risk war with us over Manchuria.

- I believe it's not the time, oh Marshal, - noted a woman who were present in the room, but so far silent. - We are not ready. The Eastern faction is not strong enough... in the internal matters as well.

- You know that failure of such an operation would not be tolerated by the Supreme Soviet, - hummed Tukhachevsky, - And then Maria, your "Eastern faction" in the Soviet will fail utterly. That is the mild version, and the harsh truth is probably you'll get shot for treason and inciting war. We will not have a second chance. Therefore, it might be best to wait as you propose.

Official communique to the Qing Empire.

Your support of the Manchurian imperialists is regrettable, but undeniably logical for you are a monarchist, imperialist dictatorship much like your puppet Manchuria. The Soviet Union does not take lightly your accusations of "agressive policy". Like every other regime so set against our nation, we shall vigilantly observe your further actions.

People's Commisar for International Affairs, G.V. Chicherin

Official communique to the Kingdom of Manchuria.

In case the Kingdom of Manchuria feels no longer bound by treaties signed with the previous government of Russia, the Soviet Union hereby stops any debt repayment to Manchuria still due.

The insinuations that you do not posess a translator who could translate the names of geographic objects like rivers is absolutely ridiculous and an insult to common sense. Would you also be at ire for a letter using the name Peking instead of writing Bejing with hieroglyphics?

You are making a public mockery of yourself by your attempts to fake illiteracy. Our demands have not changed, and economic sanctions and the closure of Soviet-Manchurian border will remain in effect until cancellation by the Soviet Union.

People's Commisar for International Affairs, G.V. Chicherin

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Kremlin, Moscow.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Bukharin. I apologize for greeting you as Mr. Chicherin, our diplomatic information is less than sterling in these recent times, and the most recent reports date to before his excursions to the Byzantines and the Mongolians.”

Bukharin nodded politely.
- That is not a problem. Comrade Chicherin is very occupied these days. Meeting a person of higher rank, I suppose, does not dissappoint you. I am currently heading the Soviet Union's Supreme Soviet, and therefore I have all necessary rights to conduct any business between our nations, including negotiations.

“It is a matter of record that the revolution of Russia has caused economic issues within our own nation - your traditional market for our crafts and materials, it has been diminished significantly. We wish, as a people, to resume a profitable trade arrangement. We have recently made great developments in the refining and mining of our great nation's mineral ores, and we are led to understand Russia requires fuel for its railroads, its fleets, its own industrial progresses. We would be willing to offer favourable bidding terms on our oil and gas reserves, our iron and steel, and the excellent coal.”

- That would be most welcome, - Bukharin nodded, - However, you must understand that the recent unrest in the Central Asian republics has led to the current border regime. It is not the will of the Soviet government, but the necessity of the situation. The border regime cannot be relaxed; but transport passing from and into Afghanistan may, with sufficient precaution, have several special checkpoints opened that would make the border crossing easier and faster.

“In addition to this, we have recently developed an overabundance of wheat we would be very willing to sell to your great republics for very affordable rates. It is of excellent quality, but there is simply too much for our people to consume and it is beginning to threaten to overflow our silos.”

- That is also welcome, but our farmers are as of now producing enough wheat for the Soviet Union to remain a net exporter, - noted Bukharin, - however, as you know we have an excellent railroad artery that can bring your wheat to the industrial consumers in Europe - Poland, Germany, and others.

“We also feel it is fair that we inform you of a new chain of outposts along our border. We do not wish for this to be construed as a hostile action, of course, and would by far prefer mutual trade and beneficial relations, but it is a priority of the Minister.”

- The fortifications of the Soviet-Afghan border do not raise any problems with us, - replied Bukharin. - We do not wish for a world of barriers to be created, but as you know, a brotherhood of man. The Soviet Union considers the construction of defences and national defence priorities an exclusively internal matter of nations.

“There is also the matter of military cooperation and exchange. Our military is also a priority for the Minister in the coming years, and we wish to offer any support we may offer to that of the Republics. We have a very strong weapons design program being undertaken by our Bureau of Defence, and we would very willingly share the end result. We are interested in the purchase of new air craft – Mongolia has already offered to sell us some of theirs, but we feel that, in the spirit of mutual cooperation, we should first offer the opportunity to your great nation.”

Bukharin hummed.
- We shall stage a joint military demonstration in the Central Asian Military district this summer. Observers from Mongolia and Afghanistan will be invited. The offers will be signed with the appropriate agencies, but I wish to assure you that the Soviet Union has an aircraft project in which many nations already expressed interest, - Bukharin smiled and walked towards a shelf, where he picked a small book. - This is a technical description of our TB-1 heavy bomber, done at the Akhtubinsk experimental airfield. This project is currently supported by many nations, and we are open to invite Afghanistan as well. There is also the matter of industrial lease. The Soviet Union is so willing to use it's new industrial potential to help produce machinery, civilian as well as military, for the needs of Afghanistan. As a safe customer, and a cooperative partner in our vinicity of Central Asia, we feel you are a safe customer for Soviet help.

- We should, I feel, also discuss the safety of common borders, - noted Bukharin, - as you know, Qing China and their imperialist puppets in Manchuria have recently been stifling trouble in the East. We wish not for any troubles in Central Asia; and we would like a treaty that would ensure the neutrality of Afghanistan, and disallow the passing of any foreign forces through Afghanistan, in the event of a Sino-Soviet conflict.

We propose that we set apart a modest plot of land in Kabul for your ambassadors and that you do the same in Moscow for our own, with the stipulation that no armaments are to be brought into either nation.”

- That will be done right away, - Bukharin promised. - On behalf of the Soviet Union's people and the Supreme Soviet, I hope we shall continue cooperation in good faith.

[Evincer]

Tel Aviv

"Who's in charge here?
Blast it!"

Enrique searched the bustling crowd for anyone who could direct him to a government office. He spoke only English and Spanish, and hoped that enough of this admirably diverse community could understand him in either of the languages.

He was exhausted. Flying in an observation aircraft from central Bolivaria to Brazil, he had embarked on the fastest steamer leaving for the other side - to Africa, actually. The journey then necessitated aircraft, again.
"Why don't we have a transatlantic aircraft?" he wondered.

The Sky Minister had cabled a notice of Mondardo's arrival to the government in Tel Aviv, but the entire trip had been rushed and executed in the most disjointed fashion. Enrique did not even know what time it was.

However, in his suitcase, he carried documents detailing exactly what the Bolivarian aircraft industries were prepared to offer. He just had to make a connection with somebody.

Villazon SFB
South Bolivaria



The dusty flat plains of Villazon, sometimes interrupted by rolling hills and mountain, offered a lot - if one was of Texan extraction. Ideal for horse riding, the terrain contrasted with the jungles that occupied so much of Bolivaria's borders.

North of the border town, spread out on the flat terrain, lay Villazon Sky Force Base, a key installation for Sky Group South.

The commander of the Sky Base hung up the phone.
"We've just been alerted about strange movements by the Chiletinean Navy. We must increase air patrols along the border. Coastal Command will work with the Navy to increase the spotting presence along the coast."
His subordinates began executing drills rehearsed so many times.
He sighted.
"What a stupid exercise. We're going to have to order further aircraft replacements next quarter."