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Indochinese Democratic Republic The positions along the Singapore area are lightly fortified in the front, but works appears to be conducted behind the main lines. Thousands of local laborers are drafted to work on construction in the immediate region. Work continues on the new 75mm rapid fire cannon. Additionally, funding is placed into the development of a new Self Propelled gun to be called the Ho Chi ((4 pages)). Factories continue to churn out artillery and rocket pieces, as well as small arms for the mobilizing troops. The Premier personally meets with the Thai king and his Prime Minister to discuss the war to the south, economic output on the peninsula, and possibly having Thailand join the Confederacy. They are buttered up with discussions on semi-autonomy, ((MOD NEEDED)) Hundreds of factories are sprouting up along the central flatland of the peninsula. Workers are being mobilized to produce consumer goods and arms.Improved working conditions and welfare promote the jobs, and unemployed people are given starting positions along with an apartment that is cost free for the first two years of work. Extra dry docks are constructed in the estuaries to the North. It is unknown what they will house and work on later. (( 3 pages)) Diplomacy and Foreign Policy -The Indian troops near the Singapore buffer are given the option to cross over to Vietnamese lines and be peacefully disarmed and interred for the remainder of the war, so as to not break the non-aggression pact with Indonesia. -The military alliance with India is accepted. -A message is sent to the United States, offering to give funding and participate in a space mission to Mars as well as launching of a new tel-communications satellite, designed by the brightest students of the technical institutes of the confederacy ((2 pages))

Quick reply The armored columns stationed in Singapore and on the peak of the peninsula race down to capture as much land from the Malaysians as possible before the Indonesians do. The goal is to prevent the Indonesians from seperating the province of Singapore from the rest of the confederacy, where ever Confederate troops met Indonesians they would have orders to stand down and build fortifications unless attacked. All trade deals are accepted Research begins on a new 75mm field gun which would be capable of firing nearly 40 shells a minute by a trained crew. Work begins on a new and revolutionary submarine design ((10 pages)) Divisional anti aircraft battalions are setup incase of an air attack, and the class of 2031/2032 is mobilized for war. A missive is sent to INDONESIA for a possible anti-aggression pact.

The United People's Republic of Indochina Premier Mihn stood atop a balcony, looking down on the adoring masses that had gotten him into this prestigious office. After decades of brutal civil war and ethnic cleansing on all sides, the south east Asian peninsula had had enough and turned to a new Popular Front known as "People for Themselves". Led by Mihn, who was a Vietnamese born Singapore official, the mmovementgrew and gained strength until a popular revolution broke out and toppled the governments of Vietnam and Laos. Myanmar was the next to fall, followed by Cambodia. Singapore decided to join the coalition rather than face external or internal threats. The people formed parliaments in each of the newly led countries and elected Mihn as the supreme leader of the new confederacy, which would be named the Glorious and United People's Republic of Indochina. It was time for a new power to rise on the world stage. "People of a United Indochina, I appeal to you here not as your leader but as a fellow party member! Looking down upon your loving faces I cannot help but feel immense pride at the thought of guiding our country into the glorious era which awaits it! Let us begin now, with a week of festivities to be held throughout our prosperous nation! May Buddhisal watch over us, and may he light our path!" After the festival ends, people return to work and their normal lives. Most of the people from the North enjoy a simple and enduring lifestyle providing agricultural and manufacturing goods to the rest of the nation. It is expected that these products will allow the government to fight starvation rampart in northern Myanmar region. Shrines are built throughout the land, dedicated to the god Buddhisal. Originally a radical offshoot of mainstream Buddhism it grew to take prevalence throughout the peninsula. It called for controlled bloodshed and devotion to be given in order to secure one's place next to Buddhisal in the realm of the afterword. It preached security and sovereignty over all else, and was soon adopted as the official state religion. Nationalism of a new kind runs rampant, comparable to that of the French after 1792 or that of the Germans after unification. This is greatly helped by the required and state run education as well as propaganda efforts throughout the peninsula. The local level democratic efforts and grass root organizations help instill a sense of national duty and pride in large numbers of new citizens. The nation's wealth came in many different forms. The ultra important trade port of Singapore certainly helped, giving technical expertise and a good location for regulating exports and imports. Factories sprouted throughout the central flatland, mostly manufacturing goods and consumer items, but many are also reserved for the manufacture of arms and weaponry. Agriculture and harvest of natural goods in the North make up another part of the GDP. Technical institutes are also spreading, helping to bring some much needed brains back into the economy. The military is reformed. Due to current budget restraints, it is limited to 7 armored divisions, 9 mechanized divisions, an airborne division centered in the new capital of Hano-Sang and 8 independent artillery brigades throughout the coasts and one in Singapore. The traditional infantry is now constituted of reservists who are called up during emergencies by graduation class. Although some small arms are obsolete or old, the artillery remains the proudest part of the Ground Forces. The Navy and Air Force are combined as one branch, and the majority sets out south to the straits separating the peninsula with Malaysia. Consisting mostly of destroyers and LCD cruisers, it might be small but remains a force to be reckoned with. Due to the tensions which have began to boil over to the South, mot of the standing army is sent to guard the closest borders with Indonesia. The class of 2031 is held on alert, but not mobilized. To INDONESIA , a message is sent stating that any further aggression towards the Malaysians or any potential constituents of the confederacy will be regarded as an act of war. India , a trade deal and possible military agreement is sent Japan, declarations of luck in the war are sent to the Empress as well as talk of a potential trade agreement U.S, talks of arms deals and possible trade agreements are sent ULC, diplomatic channels are opened and declare that possible shipments of food would be available in exchange for trade and weapons. Russia, talks of possible arms deals and trade is brought forth by diplomats. South Korea, talks of trade and military agreements are sent Regarding the declarations of Italy and France, the Premier simply state that: "The French and other imperialists were here before, but we kicked them out. There is no doubt that we can do it again"

Nation name: United Peoples Republic of Indochina (Vietnam/Cambodia/Laos/Singapore/Myamar) -Leader Name: Ho Tin Mihn -Firepower: weakened Force of nearly 15 divisions, can't access global firepower from iPhone -History: Much happened this millennium. The collapse of the UN led to disastrous consequences on the Indochinese peninsula. Civil wars and genocides had raged for nearly an entire decade. Finally, the people had had enough of the violence. A popular front had risen , led by Mihn, a Vietnamese national born in Singapore and who rose to prominence there. Many had rallied to his cause of reuniting the peninsula, and they had succeeded in uniting several nations into a confederacy.

Is this thing still going?

Nation name: Republic of Tres Population: 490 Diplomatic actions: -Began excavation -Began development of a larger mining machine The find was relatively small, but could lead to more. Thus a protective site is build around it and the excavation begins. Anything that might be significant is reported, bagged, and tagged. With the larger amounts of ore and metals being constructed, it is agreed that there should be a larger machine to extract resources. It would be positioned near the fast flowing cavern rivers, and powered by the water currents. As well, work begins on a possible hydro-electric plant. ((3 pages for both)) Training exercises resume for the militia. With the additional manpower, the General thinks it might be possible to levy and train another platoon of men. This would require time to train the recruits, and then more to make their weapons and equipment ((1 page)).

Nation name: Republic of Tres Population: 490 Diplomatic actions: -Expanded the mines -Worked on SANGER design -Began looking for signs of earlier life -Continued quarantine Those still fit for work and not sick are tasked with the expansion of the mines. With the population of the colony growing, there are more people to work in the mines. Larger and larger amounts of metallic ore are being extracted and stored, and plans for expanding the metal foundry have been brought up in the public forums. The mines go deeper and deeper, a recent census states that 3/5ths of the population work in some way to extract ores or support the quarries. ((1 page to expand the metal working foundry)). Work begins on designing a jet similar to the SANGER, and the added metallic resources help greatly. Work on a shorter and more powerful carabine for the troops is also in progress. ((2 pages for carbine, 5 for SANGER)) The top scientists of the colony begin looking for signs of earlier life on Mars, maybe even ancient alien civilizations from many years ago. Teams are dispatched to search on the surface and inside the caverns. ((Mod needed)) The quarantine continues, and the origin of the plague is traced back to the German beef. The wheat is stored in another place and thoroughly checked and cleansed. Twice. In order to prevent further infections, a stronger vault and holding chamber is made at the entrances. ((1 page)) Some infected meat is kept in the high security vault, along with the DDX2.

((Short response post)) Nation name: Republic of Tres Population: 465 Diplomatic actions: -Tried to quarantine infected people The Consul orders a quarantine of those showing the symptoms. People are literally forced to shower three times a day, wash their hands regularly, and go through a medical examiner twice a week. All food processed up to three days before Haans' arrival is burned. Only the most needed workers are allowed to go through work, and if any showed symptoms they would be quarantined in a special holding chamber.

Nation name: Republic of Tres Population: 475 Diplomatic actions: -Continued on with the pilot The men watch as the pilot looks around the room, continuing on with their meal. The Consul looks to the linguist, who begins to translate. "I have only heard of beef in one of our Terra books, as well as wheat. I suppose to make bread with it, we need only do the same as the bread we make with our corn?" The General chimes in "That meat that you just ate, it was good no? We call it Delicia, it means a delicacy. Comes from Rodentes, I believe you call them rats? Sadly it is the only meat available to us here" The conversation lulls a bit before the General ask the pilot about Earth, and if it could be seen from Luna. "We haven't had contact with the Earth for nearly 280 years now. How is it doing?" The consul also becomes intrigued, asking "And what about you on Luna, how are you faring? And how far do you intend to go into the Deep space?" When the meal is finished, they escort him to the Vault. Inside he would see several gold plated tabernacles, housing 4 different books "These are the only relics we have left of our homeland. Take time and read some if you wish, we will begin unloading your ship of supplies and refueling it, with your permission." The four books are: -Linguist Dictionary of English, Spanish, French, German, and Japanese -History of the 21st century -Military organization of the Federation of Azatlan -Aquaculture and Agriculture They leave Haans alone, although warning him not to venture into the iron covered chamber next door. People begin unloading the wheat and beef into a storehouse ((if given permission)), and scientists observe the SANGER II, trying to get an idea of how it works and attempting to create some basic and rudimentary blueprints.

Nation name: Republic of Tres Population: 475 Diplomatic actions: -Retrieved the SANGER pilot Within minutes of the SANGER touching down, a team was dispatched to meet the pilot. It was made up of a translator, 4 armed guards, and a medical officer. The column of dust could be seen for several miles as the Mk1 Rover transport skipped across the dunes and hills of the North Pole. Finally, they arrived at the scene and the guards quickly got down, pointing their rifles at the foreigner as the medical officer examined the outside of his suit. He made some quick hand motions, and an emergency rebreather unit was brought to him. Finally, the translator spoke in broken German: "Welcome, piloto. I apologize for the guards, they are a necessary precaution. Please come onboard the vehicle." Even if he had tried to refuse, the guards would have heralded him onto the rover. A retractable ramp is dislodged from the back of the vehicle, and his jet is attached to the IFV. The transport then drives, making good speed towards Gloria. From the inside of the truck like transport, the pilot would be able to see a limited portion of the city and the tunnels that led to Victoria. He was given a rather luxurious room after going through a quarantine and disinfection chamber. After several minutes, the General, Consul, and the same translator as earlier entered the chamber, where a dinner table had been set. The German is invited to sit with the men, and they beging eating quietly. Eventually the silence is broken by the hard voice of the General, being translated by the linguistic expert. "Why are you here?" The public is given an announcement that the mobilization of the militia was due to a possible safety hazard, and many had seen the IFV speed along the winding streets. Rumors began to spread...

Nation name: Republic of Tres Population: 475 Diplomatic actions: -Attempted to communicate with the Sanger II -Mobilized 40 men in case of an emergency -Continued communications with colony 204 The state of the ship was deplorable. An effort to scrap as much from the aging vessel begins, and the brains of the colony begin to prepare a design for a newer space worthy machine. The transmission with Colony 204 continues, all the important men of the Repulic gathered around the communications post. "It is good to hear that others have survived. The Dual Leaders of Tres have convened a council, and most agree that trade would be beneficiary to both of us, but we lack space capable vessels. As for th-" Alarms scream all across the room as the radar picks up the signal of the SANGER II. "Cut the transmission! Someone send word to AA1, get the shells prepped in case that thing is hostile." The message would stop there, leaving anyone who could listen wondering what the hell was going on. Some members of the council are escorted away, as well as all non-essential personnel. After several minutes of chaos, word comes back that the first defense station was ready, while two others were being manned. An order to mobilize 40 men goes up, and they are directed to protect the entrances of the caverns. If an attack was going to happen, they would at least be somewhat prepared. A little while later, the message from the German's base is received, but barely intelligible. One phrase catches the Generals' attention though "Heil Bismarck" A memory runs across his mind of a passage he had read in one of the Vaults' books, and he finally understands what it all means. Hesitating before picking up the communicator , General Cortes looks around the room at the faces of the men. A response is sent in Spanish, German, and English across an unsecure channel: "Heil, friends. We are the descendants of the Federation of Azatlan, friends and allies of the Fourth German Kaisserach; and we too are survivors..." The whole room goes silent as a response is awaited.

2, myself and Lord Aventus, who hasn't yet posted on the RP thread. We occupy a part of the North Pole and another region.

Nation name: Republic of Tres Population: 450 Diplomatic actions: -Continued communications with colony 204 -Prepared to expand the third tungsten quarry -Reviewed ship for possible excursion into the orbit The tungsten quarry had often been overlooked as the less useful of the five main mines, but with the discovery of other life, it became imperative to enlarge it and pour more effort into the extraction of the resource. An additional 25 miners are assigned to help those already focused on the quarry. With the expected population surge, work is being done to enlarge the facilities that house workers. To promote families to have more babies, bonuses of time off work and bigger rations are given to the parents. An additional housing quarter is being drilled, adjoining the tungsten quarry to make the work more efficient. The Eaperanza-1 frigate is reviewed by the experts in charge of it. A large amount of fuel is left over, since the vessel had not even made it past a quarter of its intended target. The scientists wait and observe, trying to calculate when a takeoff would be favorable. Back in the center of Victoria, communications continue with Colony 204. "We are a, uh, peaceful people. As for resources, we have almost all the ores and minerals you could use. Now, who is this?"

Nation name: Republic of Tres Population: 450 Diplomatic actions: -Tried to establish communication with colony 204 -Began working on larger extractions of mineral ores The sound of heavy drilling echoed across the underground city of Victoria, a new quarry had been opened up in the location of a large vein of iron and copper. The farmers of the colony also take advantage of the new space to enlarge the Mai2 irrigation systems, but safety precautions are taken to ensure the food is not compromised. It is expected that the enlargement of the cavern and efforts by the bio-scientist will result in an extra two square miles available to grow crops. A training exercise is held, and the militia members practice fighting. Afterwards, the group runs through an obstacle course set outside on the bleak surface. Members are refreshed of their knowledge, and some learn to operate the anti air defense around the perimeter of Gloria. Women and children watch as most of the males of the colony parade down the main avenue before coming to a stop at the Justice Villa. The Consul gives a speech regarding the duty to their families, honor, and history. Finally, the men disperse to their homes or various bars, drinking a hard liquor derived from Mai2 and a night of merry making follows. While people celebrate in the streets, the General sat reading a book in the central command room. It wasn't one of the new books made for the entertainment of the colonists, but an original brought from Earth itself. A slow and steady beeping suddenly became rapid and loud, and a message was patched in. The General and several staff members rushed to the comma station, where the message from Colony 204 was being repeated. A young man grabbed a speaker, and began trying to transmit a response "Is anyone there? I repeat, is anyone still there? This is a representative of the Republic of Tres, do respond, over." The message would be sent anther time, and a translator stands by. "Send word to the Consul, tell him we may have established contact with other life"

Nation name: Republic of Tres Population: 450 Diplomatic actions: -Enlarged farms -Tried to establish contact with other human nations The Republic of Tres was a nation of proud people, direct descendants from the Federal colonists. They had come upon the Esperanza-1, a frigate class ship built by the north american branch of Star bound Corporation. Taking 10 years worth or supplies and little else, they set out into the great unknown, heading for a moon in the orbit of Jupiter. Yet, due to some unforeseeable engine problem, they were forced to make an emergency landing on Mars. The colonists watched as other space ships made it across the skies, headed for distant planets and places to live. The rocky and barren terrain of Mars was in many ways similar to the northern deserts of Central America from where most of them came. They adapted to their habitat, and two settlements rose. The first was relatively small, located on some heights overlooking the cliffs located on the North Pole of the dusty planet and was named Gloria. Having brought some mining equipment onboard Esperanza-1, they drilled into the bluffs around the central plateau and eventually hit water under some ice caps. A large cavern system ran along the bottom and sides of the cliffs, cut by relatively big rivers. On the banks of the largest river (Cuatlan), they established the main residence of Victoria, home to the largest portion of the population. Air was supplied by the centralized pumps which ventilated the underground settlement, which was sealed off by three layers of airtight doors, and one along a secret exit. At the center of Victoria, in the chamber where iron was first struck and found, a large vault room was built. It contained some of the few things that reminded the settlers of Madre Terra, and was closely watched. It included four books, a canister of some strange fluid, a crucifix, and DVD with a player. The majority of sustenance for the colony came from Mai2, a variant of corn specifically engineered to have extra durability, at the cost of difficulty to grow and less nutrients. Meat came mostly from large rats which had been brought aboard the vessel and had evolved on Mars in the underground caverns, specifically made to contain and nurture the animals. The protection is provided by a communal defense force made up of the male members of society. The officers are all important members of society, with the "army" only having 14 permanent members. They are armed with weapons manufactured in the medium sized foundry in Victoria. The weapons are rifles modified for low gravity combat, using a secondary chamber to increase the explosive force that propels the bullet, and fire slightly elongated metal bullets, made to tear through flesh and gravely wound. Each citizen soldier is also equipped with two small javelinike darts, useful for throwing and stabbing. Two medium mortars are kept by the defense force, as well as 6 rover vehicles capable of transporting a total of 130 men in all. The navy was made up of the Esperanza-1, which had been modified with a turret. What was really intriguing are the seven holes spread along the perimeter and center of the surface, each equipped with eight explosive shells made to shoot down vessels close in the atmosphere. The problem was that only the one in Gloria was constantly manned, the rest would have to be manned by trained operators at the outbreak of conflict. The Consul and General, dual leaders of the Republic, both agree that it was time to look for other life. A message is transmitted in Spanish, English, and German, having been written using one of the books in the vault. It would state: "-Hello, fellow --umans and survivors. We seek to establish peaceful connections with tho--- who may still be aliv--. Our ancestors speak of several starshi-- flying to all corners of th-- solar system. If anyon--- can hear --is message, please resp--. The Dual Leaders of Tres-" "Sir I'm afraid that the message will be slightly scrambled, but hopefully others will be able to understand it." A dark skinned man with a large mustache puts his hand on the shoulder of the comm operator, waiting before speaking: "Send the message two more times, then be on the lookout for a response. Its time the people of Terra find each other again, come get me if you hear anything. I'll probably be in a meeting with the Consul, he has plans on enlarging the Mai2 farms." The uniformed man exits, tracing the hard surface of the cavern's rock with his hand, a smile creeping across his face as he thinks of his peoples' accomplishments. But there was more work to do...

Let's rumble

Nation name: Republic of Tres Ethnic culture: Latin Americans Population: 430 humans Starting planet: Mars (North Pole of the planet) Did you read the rules: No praiseh pokeh

Nation: Swiss-Bavarian commonwealth -Leader name: Leopold Holhen -Gov't: monarchy -Chief focus: Expansion The day had arrived. Drums beat all along the lines of Bavarian and German men. The 4,000 men which had been pretending to march towards Denmark swing west, quickly crossing into LOTHARINGIA. They move to cut off the lines of communication and supply with the sea, most of these troops being light soldiers tasked with the disruption of convoys and small enemy forces. Invading army North: -1,000 light cavalry -500 missile cavalry -1,000 skirmishers -1,500 infantry (1,000 pikemen, 500 swordsmens) With Danish boats blockadig the main ports, the Northern army's flank would be well secured and little information would be able to pass. The troops which had marched through Wurrtemburg and seemed to be hunting rebels had actually been preparing to invade. They received orders a few hours after the Northern army, and quickly marched into the South of Lotharingia. The two marching columns are less than 12 hours away from each other, flanked by light scouting cavalry which makes it hard to ambush the men. They would move to surround the capital of Lotharingia and second largest city. This army was made up of: -1,500 light cavalry -1,000 heavy cavalry -3,500 infantry (2,000 spear men/1,500 swordsmen) -400 skirmishers -600 crossbowmen -200 Genoan crossbowmen These armies would capture as many fields intact as they could, knowing that since such an invasion was not prepared for, there would be disorganization with the initial shock. This was hoped to give the invading forces the upper hand. An additional 5,000 men where quickly marching towards the invaded realm. These were rough and experienced Swiss soldiers, and had already penetrated halfway through Wurrtemburg. They stopped periodically in the garrisoned cities to resupply and rest. It should take them three days to reach their destination. With the way to the sea blocked, it should be a long, long time before the King of Middle Francia would learn of this attack. With the majority of his army in Ireland, little resistance was expected and since he'd used most of his immediate cash to build the transport ships ((mentioned in one of his posts)), mercenaries might be hard to come by. Still, the Commonwealth forces seek out mercenary companies with promises to hire them. King Leopold sent out promises to each major Lord of Lotharingia, stating that if they defected to him, their forces would be left intact ad would have high ranking positions in the commonwealth's government of the area. Additionally, some cash and territory bonuses would be given. ((MOD NEEDED TO SEE IF THEY DEFECT)) --An additional note-- (()) I know this may seem a bit PG, but if you go back as read my posts you'll learn I've prepared for a long time. I want to make this as fair and enjoyable as possible, so if you have any questions feel free to ask. I also hope this doesn't get meta gamed, which would render all my preparations useless since this plan is formulated to quickly cut off Lotharingia from its leader and most of the world.

I'm pretty sure that the Papal States/ pope are a non playable faction

Yea, you misunderstood me. The bishops of my kingdom got together and kinda elected their own leader (not a pope though), who subsequently moved to Rome. There, he is trying to gather support from people to elect him as the next possible pope.

Nation: Swiss-Bavarian commonwealth -Leader name: Leopold Holhen -Gov't: monarchy -Chief focus: Expansion The Commonwealth army quickly absorbed the Wurrtemburg soldiers into their troops, marching through the territory, which bordered with Lotharingia. Nearly 7,000 troops marched quickly over several days to reach the north of the kingdom. There, they rested and gathered supplies, hunting down the remnants of rebellious subjects. The additional 5,000 Swiss troops marched to join them, leaving some men to placate the newly conquered state. To add to their arsenal, they construct three medium catapults. In order to calm down the populace of Wurrtemburg, more rights are granted to the peasants. Additionally, they enlarge the fiefs of lords. Thus, the peasants are afraid of the nobles and vice versa, making it seems that the Commonwealth is the only keeper of order. To strengthen this idea, medium garrisons are placed in the countryside and regularly help to calm tensions between both classes. More drills and training occur in both the armed forces and at home. On a rotating schedule, it is declared that every peasant should have training with pike or crossbow. This is in order to have levies that may already be experienced with war and maneuvers. Trade continues in all corners of the realm, and even more now that there is an alliance with Austria. The rumors are true, Elisabet is heavy with child. In order to commemorate this, Leopold declares that a new castle should be built in honor of the occasion. The arch bishop in Rome begins gaining support with other bishops and attempting to tie his name with promises of wealth and power. Meanwhile, he poses as a humble man to the masses. ((MOD NEEDED TO SEE HOW POPULAR THE BISHOP BECOMES IN ROME))

I have a question about the whole fact that the attacker in a battle doesn't get to choose where to fight. In most wars, the aggressive commanders are able to outmaneuver their enemies and decide where to give battle, and it honestly makes more sense like that in my opinion, so why can't we do that in the FRP?

The marriage between Katherine of Bavaria to the Austrian kaiser seals the deal with the military alliance that had been brokered back and forth. Celebrations are held throughout both lands. An extra 5,000 troops begin to be levied in Switzerland. Coming from the central cantons, they were rough and tough men. It would take a while though, so provisions and extra weapons are made. The King keeps in contact with the Danish King. He orders that 4,000 of the men positioned in Wurrtemburg march north to Denmark. The rest stay in place, sending an emissary to The Lord of Wurrtemburg, it proposes them a part in the commonwealth. The terms are the same as before. If they disagree, the army is prepared to invade. ((MOD NEEDED TO SEE IF THEY ACCEPT, let's agree they are some pretty good terms)) Leopold and his wife tour the kingdom, meeting with large nobles and petty peasants. Some reforms are in order, promoting the soldierly profession and giving concessions to the growing bourgeoisie. With greater trade, some say the commonwealth is flourishing. Rumors circulate in the court that Elisabet is impregnated, and that the king might soon have a familial heir. More and more people see the family in a better light, and the church gains more importance in the traditionally pagan areas, although progress is still slow and careful. The Bishops of the kingdom unite in Munich to elect a grand Archbishop to send as a representative to Rome. A diplomat is prepared and sent to the Far East, towards Cathay (China). The king wig an avid reader of history, he had learned of this land while reading roman and Persian chronicles. ((MOD NEEDED TO SEE IF THE EMMISARY MAKES IT THAT FAR)) Edit: Several traders and merchants travel to Denmark, Middle Francia, and Genoa. They would visit and mostly stay in the big and important cities.

Nation: Swiss-Bavarian commonwealth -Leader name: Leopold Holhen -Gov't: monarchy -Chief focus: Expansion The Duke and his wife rejoiced at the news of the incorporation of Hesse proper and Hesse Kassel into the Bavarian confederation. Yet they publicly mourn the death of her father and brother, and a week of vigils is held. Food is stockpiled for the winter ahead. Using its relations to Austria, the Duchy tries to buy mass amounts of grain, mostly for cattle and horses. Due to a medium population, there is expected to be food for everyone. The armies incorporate the Hessians into their forces. This brings the total of the coalition army to 8,000 men, who are marched to the border of Wurrtemburg. They then prepare camps and forts, and make sure to stockpile food. The Saxons are welcomed with open arms, and soon receive a large land grant. In return they are expected to help in times of war and 500 are trained in the fashion of the Danish huscarls. The Genoan crossbowmen are safely transported through Switzerland and into Bavaria. With the ascension of Elisabet to the throne of the Swiss, the two realms are officially joined and become the Swiss-Bavarian commonwealth. Another round of celebrations are held, but Leopold avoids conducting any drastic changes and allow the Swiss to settle into their new position in the kingdom. The nobility of the commonwealth are invited to the coronation of the now King Leopold the First of the Swiss-Bavarian commonwealth, Protector of Hesse proper and Hesse Kassel. The new king also makes sure that his queen still retains her full powers and titles regarding Switzerland. An offer is sent to the emperor of Austria, proposing a marriage between him and Leopold's sister, Katherine. This would help stabilize each other's borders and promote trade in the entire region. ((MOD NEEDED TO SEE IF THEY ACCEPT MARRIAGE))

Nation: Duchy of Bavaria -Leader name: Leopold Holhen -Gov't: monarchy -Chief focus: Expansion The Duke was married to Elisabet the Second of Switzerland on the eve of winter. She was a woman of strong character, and seemed to be even more ambitious than Leopold was. The poisoning attempt had failed miserably, so the ruler of Switzerland still reigned for now. Moments after he was declared man and wife by the bishop of Munich, a plan was already formulating in Leopold's head. The Bavarian armies don't stop marching until they face the main hosts of each state, so as to prevent them from trying anything while talks were being concluded. An emissary rides to a neutral spot and meets with the regents of Hesse and Hesse Kassel. The terms would be the following: -Incorporation of all lands into a confederation led by Bavaria -Incorporation of all standing armies into the Bavarian army -Pledge of loyalty to the Duke Leopold Holhen Meanwhile, these concessions would be given: -All nobility will retain their titles and fiefs -The sons of nobility and high bourgeoise will be accorded high positions in the administrative government of the new Confederation -Assured military protection by and to each member of the confederation -All church holdings will be retained and not confiscated by the state -Levies would not have to serve more than 10 months of campaign before being allowed to return home -Ability to trade with no punitive tariffs and prioritization of business within the confederation ((MOD NEEDED TO SEE IF THE STATES AGREE, let's be honest, those are some pretty good terms)) While the Hessian question was being settled, the Duke took his new brother and father in law hunting in a secluded place near Wurrtemburg. He had already positioned men there, to attack and kill them while giving a minor wound to the Duke. The assailants would be dressed as bandits, and were to strike as the the hunting party stopped to examine the body of a deer that had been killed there beforehand. ((MOD NEEDED TO SEE IF THE PLOT SUCCEEDS)) Meanwhile, diplomats would've been sent to Genoa, their goal being to hire 200 expert crossbowmen. Word on the possible marriage between the Danish king and Leopold's sister is eagerly awaited in Munich.