hellfiazz

R É P V B L I Q V E T H V L É E N N E 2159 Galna'Hec, Darkul-Controlled North-West Thulean Dreadnought NMR Soleil Personal Quarters of Fleet Admiral Martin de Vienne The auto-door slid open with its characteristic hiss, drawing Martin's gaze up from his desk and toward the entrance. Before him stood Capitaine de Corvette Julien de Vienne - his son. "Captain?" Martin asked, staunchly formal. "Fleet Admiral de Vienne, I was hoping to speak with you on personal terms," the younger de Vienne requested, his face visibly pale. Martin raised an eyebrow, but seeing his son's anxiousness reclined in his chair. "Alright, go ahead." "Yes, and I am proud to be here. But we are trillions of miles from home, about to do battle with fierce invaders. I am in charge of dozens of good men and women, but is my first time in real, earnest combat." Julien spoke with a slight stammer, rare for him. Martin sighed, knowing Julien's apprehension was justified. He got to his feet, and moved round the desk. Both of them prepared themselves for a rare moment of paternal care from Martin, who clasped his son by the shoulders. "Julien, you should not worry so much. You are one of the finest commanders the École has produced. You have demonstrated your prowess in the simulations countless times. I have great faith in you, and I'm certain one day you will surpass me." Julien was slightly taken aback at his father's praise - it didn't come often. "That said, you are right to be nervous - so am I. We are embarking on a great endeavour here, and anyone in this war who isn't anxious is a liar or a fool. But we must act on through our trepidations, we are responsible for the lives of our men, and for the good of the galaxy. Your crew will look to you as their leader - you must be what they need, what the Republic needs. You understand?" The young Captain nodded. "Yes father. I will try to do as you say." Martin smiled, giving his son a slap on the shoulder. "Good man. Is there anything else?" "No," Julien responded. "Thank you, though." The Fleet Admiral walked back behind his desk, his stony expression and firm tone having returned. "It is my duty to ensure my officers are at ease. You are dismissed, Captain de Vienne," he said, taking his seat. Julien nodded once more, and headed towards the auto-door. He gave a quick salute to his superior officer, proclaiming "Vive la République! Red dar Imperiad!" Martin responded in kind, some hesitancy on the latter clause as his son departed the room. He exhaled, as though he had been holding something in since his door opened. He quickly dismissed the thought, and returned to examining charts of his target. While the fleet up North continued preparations for the upcoming operation, things changed somewhat back in the Republic's territories. The militarisation program was, for now, massively down-scaled with the completion of Battlefleet Solaire. However, that was not to say that Svarog was idle - quite the contrary. An order from the Redon had been made for a great many ships, enough to completely occupy the shipyard's production capacity for the year. They are, of course, made to the finest standard that Svarog's machines and men can do. In a more peaceful and insular regard, the majority of the Republic's budget for the year once again is directed towards investment into Thulean businesses and the necessary infrastructure to make them as successful as possible, providing quality of life increases for the entire civilian populace in the process. This year these funds are mostly directed to Porte en Platine, where banks and corporations such as Société Générale and Prométhéen Extraction, Montesquieu's own company, are the main benefactors. A portion of the fund also goes to the planet Rêvasserie for the same purpose. Funding ramps up for the research into superior engine technology, with the year's investment matching the entire past money pumped into the initiative. Hopefully with the large burst of additional resources and personnel the project can see some sizable progress. S U M M A R Y: [+100 AP from Redon] Producing Redon's Ships [80AP] Business Investment [60AP Porte en Platine, 20AP Rêvasserie] Engine Tech Research [25AP; 50AP total] Thulean Republic Data

T H E R I V I E R A Quite a strange year in the Riviera. A man had come to Potamopolis proclaiming to have found gold in the hills of the upper Riviera, and led a band of prospectors organised and paid for by Andronikos himself. It was, of course, a bandit trap - but luckily Andronikos had sent his cohort of Kataphraktoi to follow them. The prospectors had been saved from robbery by the ruffians, but the old man had gotten away. Through clever use of hostages, the old man was caught in a Rivieran ambush at the crossing to Annor - him and his 6 companions were captured. While the 6 companions were sent to the capital, the old man (who protested he was an innocent hostage) was pressed into leading them to his band's trove. Unfortunately, during an accident the old man managed to escape, and has since evaded the capture of Rivieran forces. A bounty of 2,000 Denarii was put out in the Riviera for any information leading to his arrest, or for the actual successful capturing of him, and the Governors of neighbouring Grey Coast, Annor's Crossroads, and Plains of Farlus were given as much information as the Riviera had gathered. Meanwhile, a Sorcerer from the Conclave had come to claim the amulet Andronikos' prospectors had discovered - without compensation. He claimed the law was on his side, but could present no documentation to prove as much! As such, the governor's representative in the matter - his Steward Ioannes - was unable to hand it over as if he were from the Conclave. Luckily, the Sorcerer amicably agreed to act as an independent purchaser of the amulet instead, making it fully legal! A large, fist-sized ruby was the payment, making Andronikos more than happy. It was a busy year too, though. Andronikos announces an agricultural initiative to utilise the fertile valleys of the Riviera and make the province self-sufficient in food production, and maybe even start exporting some. A huge sum is invested - 40,000 Denarii. Within the year there should already be an increased volume of crop production, bringing some 4,000 more Denarii into the Governor's coffers every year. 6,000 Denarii are also sent to the Governor Gaius of the Island of Salathai. Both Andronikos and Lucretia of Annor were making investments into the Iron mining industry there, to expedite the securing of a new iron supply for the Provincial Guard and the foundries of Annor. Speaking of the Provincial Guard, Andronikos raises, trains, and arms a cohort of Heavy Infantry that will be sent off to join it. Andronikos finds it of great importance that the Empire maintains a strong army of the provinces, and of great appropriateness that the Riviera, as the richest province, be the greatest contributor. The Riviera's own medium infantry cohort receives an equipment upgrade also, using steel instead of Iron. Rivieran troops begin a systematic process of clearing the old Highways of bandits, ruffians, and ne'erdowells. Watchposts and checkpoints are set up along the length of the roads in the Riviera, which come from the Grey Coast and Annor and meet to head towards Potamopolis. The Emperor's birthday! He is sent dozens of caskets of the Riviera's finest wine. Even if he doesn't drink it now, his guests could! And it will get better with age anyway! S U M M A R Y [+3AP from Sorcerer's Conclave] 1AP for Prospector payment 2AP for Old Kook Bounty 40AP 2 Farmland Stacks 6AP to Salathai Iron Mines 1 Cohort T3 Hev Inf for PG [6AP] Upgrading T2 Med Inf to T3 [1AP] Clearing the roads with Kataphraktoi and Med Inf 1AP on Wine Caskets for the Emperor! Riviera Information

T H E R I V I E R A The year had only just begun, and already it had been rather eventful. A sort of legal coup had been staged against Lucretia's premiership of the Provincial Council, led largely by Marcus of the Blightswamp - Andronikos' main political adversary. Naturally, Andronikos had been ousted alongside his appointer and ally, and replaced by the still very capable Governor of the Tamaraad Coast. Andronikos was disappointed, but not too shocked or dejected - in the one year he was Lord Treasurer, he had managed to reap the benefits of the position handsomely. While Silus was staying in the Pherenike estate (conducting the audit of the Riviera in person), Andronikos made sure suspicion wasn't cast on himself by staying with him. He wasn't sure if Silus was a friend or an enemy, so it would do well to keep him close either way. So his reasoning went, at least. He sends off several letters to Potamopolis, outlining his plans for the year's expenditure. He makes sure to show them to Silus before they are sent off for his ease of audit. Despite Lucretia granting the Riviera continued use of the Annor foundry, the iron supply issues meant that Rivieran troops would be bereft of decent armour. That is, unless new foundries were constructed. Aulus' March had already received a grant to build a military foundry from the council, but in the spirit of securing equipment production for the Riviera and the Imperial North-West as a whole, Andronikos had decided a foundry ought to be constructed in the Riviera itself. The foundry constructed this year would only be capable of producing bronze and leather weapons and equipment, but the hope was that an iron supply could be secured and then the production capabilities of the Rivieran foundry could be increased. In the same vein of industrialisation, Andronikos sends a large sum of 10,000 Denarii to Annor, of course escorted by an armed guard. The purpose of this was to assist in their technological advancement in the realm of engineering, which would help repair the long dilapidated Imperial Highways and allow the construction of ever more productive and impressive structures. Andronikos, being the patriot he is, continues to contribute to the provincial guard. 3 cohorts of Medium Infantry are raised, the funding for one of which was granted by the Treasurer. They are armed with iron weapons and clad in iron equipment, then sent off to Aulus to the command of the Lord Marshal. Another cohort of similarly equipped medium infantry is also raised, though this one would remain under Andronikos' command, joining the cohort of Kataphratkoi in the fledgling Rivieran Army. The amulet uncovered in the northern foothills was of great interest to Andronikos. He spends a fair some of money searching out scholars and sorcerers and compensating them for their work, should they be legitimate and make an actual discovery. He watches progress on the matter closely. S U M M A R Y T1 Foundry [20AP] 10AP to Annor for T3 engineering 4 Cohorts Iron-clad Medium Inf, 3 for PG [16AP] Researching Amulet [6AP]

T H E R I V I E R A The Riviera: richest of the provinces, and one of the safest. Not only is the province far in the interior, but is protected by the mountain ranges from which the many rivers, streams, and brooks of the Riviera flow. It was truly the model Imperial Province, filled with riches and beauty, both natural and man-made. It was this fact that brought Governor Andronikos Berenikeia pride both for his title and as a Rivieran. [The Foothills of the Northern Riviera] Provincial edicts are plastered all over the settlements of the Riviera, from the capital city of Potamopolis to the small villages in the foothills of the Northern Riviera Mountains. In the more central regions, work in announced on the expansion of the Riviera's main wine manufactory in order to increase production, and therefore profit. Sizable funds for this purpose are received from the treasury of Annor, who will in turn receive 10% of the manufactory's profits. To the northern, eastern, and western extremities of the province, prospecting is ordered to try and find any mineral deposits - anything that a profit can be made off of. Locals and experts are encouraged to go prospecting and are aptly rewarded for any discoveries. Meanwhile, a military recruitment notice is issued across the Riviera. The newly appointed Grand Marshal of the Provinces had issued a call to arms in order to retake the roads from the ubiquitous bandit gangs in the countryside, and to secure the northern provinces against Korvic incursions. Andronikos was never one to back down from serving the Empire, and so he pays for the training of 2 Cohorts of Medium Infantry, armed and armoured with the finest Annor steel. They are promptly sent to Aulus' March upon their training's completion to join the Provincial Guard. From among the nobles, a cohort of Kataphraktoi - fearsome heavy cavalry - begins their training. They too are armed with Annor steel equipment, and are trained to an elite level. They are far and away the greatest, most powerful troops outside the Legions themselves. On a more clandestine level, Andronikos privately makes a great many "backdoor deals" with officials and bureaucrats both Imperial and Rivieran. What is he up to now? The errant high up tax accountant is dealt with according to the law for such matters - he is put in stocks in the central plaza of Potamopolis for a day, and then sent to prison. The assets which he skimmed off the top are largely redistributed to the nobles, burghers, and commoners who the taxes were taken from, with a small portion and the rest of his assets taken as "administrative fees". By law he could have taken it all, such generosity! S U M M A R Y 30AP into T2 Wine Manufactory [+20AP from Annor] Prospecting foothills and mountains for resources [6AP] 1 Cohort T3-clad Elite Kataphraktoi [12AP] 2 Cohorts T3-clad Medium Infantry [4AP] Backdoor Dealings [5AP] Dealing with Accountant [See above]

Skype: you got it Province of choice: Riviera Governor (Their name, and a little personal history): Andronikos Berenikeia The Berenikeia dynasty were among the wealthiest of the Riviera's upper classes, owning vast vineyards producing some of the finest quality drink in the whole Empire. Eventually, they got tired of sticking to wine, and moved into politics with some success. They bought their way into relevance, and soon had a permanent presence in the Imperial Court. Andronikos is the latest patriarch of the Berenikeia and had a notable influence in Court since he was a young man. Upon the reorganisation of the Empire, he was chosen to become governor of his and his dynasty's home province, giving the recently ascended Emperor Altus a trusted and loyal partner ruling over the Empire's richest lands. Your Provincial Culture: The Riviera's culture is somewhat unique among the Empire, due in part to its geographical isolation brought about by the mountain ranges of the southern Gray Coast and the Royal Highlands. Most importantly in this regard is its wealth, coming from its fertile and naturally irrigated lands. In other provinces this deviation from Altairean culture would likely have been clamped down upon, however in the Riviera was too rich, and brought too much money to Imperial coffers to risk unrest or even revolt. It is also for this reason that the Riviera sees such a wealth disparity. There are essentially two classes - the obscenely wealthy and politically influential merchant-nobles, and the dirt poor farmers and workers. The latter still has a better life than in most provinces, however, thanks to the fertility of the land securing against famine (in all but the worst cases) and a recent trend among merchant-nobles of investing in the well-being of their subjects, mostly to avoid unrest which would bring a loss of profit. A Unique Military Unit for your Province (You should read the mechanics before you decide): Kataphraktoi Armed and armoured in the best equipment that you can buy, the Riviera's Kataphraktoi form some of the finest heavy cavalry in all the Empire. While just as useful as cavalry on plains and flatlands, the pre-Imperial culture of the Riviera seeps through in them, as repeated defenses on the surrounding hills and mountains have meant they are traditionally skilled at fighting in rough terrain also. Suggestions?: none!

K I N G D O M O F D E N M A R K The Battle of Aarhus had been an immensely bloody affair. After a daring night-time raid failed at destroying the Saxon siege engines, the first day started with the constant thunderous din of catapult fire against the city wall. Fairly soon the Saxons had succeeded in creating several breaches in the walls of Aarhus, charging through them to engage the Danish defenders. An attempt at getting access to the walls was thwarted by quick-thinking infantry on them, who burned the makers of the attempt with pitch and torch. Nonetheless, the day was certainly not one of glory and honour for the Danes, for whom the outlook was bleak throughout. The assault quickly devolved into a bloodbath, with neither side gaining ground (save for one of the Saxon breaches) but both sides taking heavy casualties. It eventually started growing too late to fight, and the Saxons retreated to their warcamp in the early afternoon - much to the relief of the Danes. However, the greatest relief came as the majority of the Saxon army simply left the siege after the first day of combat. King Hardeknud had ordered his forces in Holland to enter Saxon territory and begin raiding their unprotected villages and towns. The Saxons eventually heard of this and, presumedly decided that protecting their families was of more import than fighting on behalf of the Norwegian King, went to go deal with them. The rest of the Saxon army, not bold enough to stage an assault with their now depleted numbers, eventually left away - some deserting, but most eventually ordered back to Saxony. The sense of relief across the Danish lands was great; for a long while it seemed the capital would fall. But the victory laurels were not to be sat on. Hardeknud immediately went about preparing for a new invasion, one which would secure Danish prosperity and greatness. Although the King had already moved court to Copenhagen last year, he only officially transfers the capital of the Danish empire from Aarhus this year - it would likely have prompted a demoralisation if he had done so while the city was under siege. Most of Copenhagen had been reconstructed, which had allowed for the city to become much greater than it had previously. Proper sewers had been dug out, proper roads had been paved, and proper housing had been constructed - all in a prestigious and distinctly Imperial style of architecture. Meanwhile, in Jutland, 2,000 Vikinger are raised: elite infantry with immense skill at naval invasion. The Danish force that had initially gone into Sweden but had turned around once the Saxons invaded make their way to Sjaelland, where they join up with the forces stationed there. The united army then also make their way to Jutland, where the medium infantry are also given the training and equipment necessary to become Vikinger. More transport ships are constructed to actually ferry this invasion army to its likely target, and end this war once an for all. Summary: 2 Units of Vikinger [10AP] Upgrading 4 Units Medium Infantry to Vikinger [4AP] Transports [1AP] T2 Medium Infantry [8/20RP] Denmark Info

K I N G D O M O F D E N M A R K Things were not proceeding as planned. Copenhagen had been reclaimed, and that had brought a great deal of pride to the Danish. However, now Aarhus was under siege by Saxon warriors, and the Mercians had betrayed their alliance to the Danes and Swedes and invaded their English holdings. Regardless, King Hardeknud, now seated on a throne in Copenhagen, had a plan and numerous tricks up his sleeve that would ensure the final victory would belong to him and his allies in Sweden. In Sjaelland, a great many troops of varying sorts are raised - very few tricks are good enough to totally replace troops. Summary: 2 Units Medium Infantry [8AP] 2 Units Light Infantry [6AP] 1 Unit Bowmen [2AP] Danish Info

K I N G D O M O F D E N M A R K Summary: 3 Units Medium Infantry [12AP] Replenishing Copenhagen Medium Infantry [2AP] 1 Unit Basic Infantry [2AP] Danish Stats

Thulean Republic ((RP to be added later)) Summary: 2 Destroyers [6AP] 4 Support Carriers [20AP] 2 Heavy Cruisers [12AP] 2 Carriers [12AP] 2 Battleships [16AP] 1 Dreadnought [12AP] 400 Fighters [4AP] Total Ships: 82AP Engine Tech [5AP, Total 25AP] Thulean Republic Data

K I N G D O M O F D E N M A R K King Hardeknud Skjöldung stood upon the shores of the Danish-held island of Falster, looking across the narrow strait between it and Sjælland with a furrowed brow. It was the rightful capital of Denmark, the place from which their empire had originally sprung forth. And yet, it was held by Norway - an intolerable state of affairs. He turned to the gathered throng of generals, advisors, and greater nobility behind him, who had been watching virtually silently. They were all quite nervous, understandably so. "I wouldn't look so worried, gentlemen," Hardeknud boldly declared. "We'll have our home back soon." "You mean to make war then, sire?" asked Godulfr, his foremost general and most trusted companion. "I do. And soon. For now we prepare. I have formulated a plan to reclaim our homeland," said the King as he began walking through the mob of the Danish elite, who waited expectantly. "And it is?" Godulfr questioned on their behalf. "I shall explain upon our return to Aarhus. For now, let's enjoy the beauty of our land, and the sea air." Hardeknud continued his stroll along the shore, loosely followed by the now excitedly chattering crowd. Denmark was a rich land, and the most populous of all the self-proclaimed "Sea Kings." It also boasted the largest army and held lands on every side of the North Sea. King Hardeknud Skjöldung's predecessors had carved a small empire out of the low countries and eastern England, which had put money in Danish coffers and brought glory to the Danish people. But the King was ambitious; his empire was not yet at its greatest extent, not in his vision of his Kingdom's future. Especially since Norway held Sjaelland. In preparation for war, the King's surplus expenditure for the year was entirely focused on building an invasion force. Transports are built to facilitate the movement of troops, and more troops are recruited to board them: 1,000 Bowmen, and another 1,000 Lithsmen. Furthermore, several ballistae begin construction, using ancient but still advanced patterns that had been stolen back in the Empire's glory days of expansion. Meanwhile, the King reaches out to his fellow kings around his realm for diplomacy. Mercia and Sweden both receive positive replies to their requests for trade and alliances, and trade envoys are sent to the Irish Clan O'Neil, and to the Kingdom of Leon in Iberia. Actions and AP Summary Base: 4 Capital: 4 2 Cities: 2 Population: 1 Total: 11AP Troop Transports for 8,000 [4AP 1,000 Medium Infantry [4AP] 1,000 Archers [2AP] 6 Ballistae [1AP] Improving Medium Infantry [2RP] Alliances formed with Sweden and Mercia Trade pacts made with Sweden, Mercia, Clan O'Neill, and Leon

Discord: hellfiazz#5598 Nation: Denmark

Vereinigte Bergwerke AG Despite the Redons' rampant expansionism, the VBAG had managed to remain totally stable. The trade lost in the Bhutanese was quickly replaced by that of the Gaels, who had also been seeking to fill the trade hole the Redon had caused. In the newly expanded shipyard orbiting Siegfriedshafen, several ships begin construction. In addition to another Richter-class Light Cruiser, two Walküre-class Support Carriers begin construction, as well as two further Abfangjäger-class Corvettes. On the ground, 400 fighters of the new design pattern begin production - half for the Support Carriers, half being based on Siegfriedshafen itself for now. Multiple investments are made across company territory into various VBAG subsidiaries. Platin Tor sees the majority of the allocated funds, and now boasts a business sector equal in size to that of Siegfriedshafen. Tagtraum, meanwhile, has a smaller portion, not quite enough to make a sizable impact on the economy of the company on the whole. The planet also has the university under construction there completed. Summary: 1 LC, 2SC, 2Corvettes [20AP] 400 Fighters [4AP] Platin Tor Business Stack [20AP, 80 Platin Tor total, 200 total] Tagtraum Business [10AP] Finalising Tagtraum University [12AP] 3RP to Ronin 5RP on Titanium Armour VBAG Info

Vereinigte Bergwerke AG Cogs were turning in the heart of the corporate machine that was the VBAG, and not just those churning out hundreds of tons of minerals in the mining complexes of the company. An opportunity had arisen and been identified, and the company was loathe to pass such things up. First of all, the colony ship produced last year heads south to colonise a new sector, to be named Pinzian. They settle on a suitable planet, which is the colonists decide to call Aglar. The company makes some more territorial claims now it has the territorial projection to do so, some in the south near the new system, and one in the east. Resource surveys are done in these new territorial claims to try identify any deposits. Meanwhile, back in the already established sectors, some investments are made by the company of two sorts. The first is a typical investment into the subsidiary companies of the VBAG, this time on the planet Tagtraum. The second is a large expansion of the orbital shipyard above Siegfriedshafen, with the aim of both expanding capacity for smaller ships and allowing construction of larger ones, such as battleships. On the matter of ships, the company begins the construction of some this year. One Richter-class Light Cruiser, a Wächter-class Frigate, and 2 Abfangjäger-class Corvettes start assembly in the orbital drydock above Siegfriedshafen. Meanwhile, the company begins investing in the establishment of a second university on Tagtraum, which is receiving a great deal of attention this year. Research continues on improved fighter models, with projections estimating their completion by the end of the year. Summary: Colonising and TCs Resource Survey of new TCs Business Investment [19AP, 40 Tagtraum total, 180 total] SL5 [20AP] 1 LC, 1 Frigate, 2 Corvettes [10AP] University on Tagtraum [13AP] T2 Fighters [20RP/20RP] 1 RP to Ronin VBAG Info

Duchy of Leyawiin Actions Summary: Economic Investment; Focus Hunting and Logging in Blackwood [20AP] Waiting for Ayleid scholar envoys, additional funding [1AP] Sending Classis I "Nibenus" with Imperial ships to fight Argonian fleet [Classis I is 1 galley, 3 caravels, 2 cogs] Trade envoys to Chim and south-west Morrowind Reclaimer puppet Leyawiin Info

Vereinigte Bergwerke AG Summary: 50AP into universities Colony ship [3AP] 3 frigates, 1 corvette [7AP] Business [1AP] T2 fighters [12RP/20RP] VBAG info

Thulean Republic The combined cost of the Republic's own militarisation and the order placed by the Redon was a little too much for the budget to bare this year, Kolran Montesquieu and the Senate had decided. As such, ship-building for the year was suspended to allow for greater focus on the economy, aside from a few hundred fighters for the Republic itself. The Redon's fighter order, the price for the technology he had granted, was completed, only two years after it had been placed. The 2,600 produced this year make their way to wherever the Redon desired them. Then, the government placed an order for another 600 Rakxar Mk. III models for their own military, keeping the fighter factories extremely busy throughout the year. It was no small feat to produce 3,200 fighters in twelve short months, and the Republic's workers and technicians had felt considerable pride as the last 100 made their way through the assembly line. In order to make up for the lack of business investment last year, due to the focus on ship-building, a considerable sum of resources are invested into business and infrastructure on Belenos, to the extent that it now rivaled Prima Thule in the business thoroughfare taking place. Attention now turns to the Republic's northernmost sector, on the planet Porte en Platine, where the government begins building up a third business hub. Meanwhile, the colony ship produced last year makes its way north-west of the capital, settling in the sector between Nouvelle Bourgogne, Août, and last year's colonised sector Émeraude. The sector is named Aventin and the planet is given the name Nativité. Quite unusually, foreign policy took a large portion of the year's focus. Once again, the Kolran requested an audience with the Redon, citing both concerns and an offer. Furthermore, a treaty is signed on Porte en Platine with the Agerian Commonwealth, agreeing to an exchange of territory from the Agerians in exchange for a large payment from the Thuleans. The Republic had approached the Agerians desiring a better consolidation of their north territory by widening the corridor up there, as well as better securing their borders. As the Commonwealth withdrew their claims, the Republic made their own, using the projection of their latest colony and withdrawing their northernmost territorial claim to accommodate the new territory. The sectors traded are the following: Summary: 2,600 Fighters for the Redon [26AP] 600 Fighters [6AP] Business on Belenos and Porte en Platine [20AP each; 180AP total] Colonising planet Payment to Agerian Commonwealth [20AP] Requesting audience with Redon Thulean Republic Data

Vereinigte Bergwerke AG Over on Platin Tor, in the Stolz sector, a massive business effort is undertaken to promote internal trade and bolster the fledgling subsidiaries that VBAG had created (mostly to more efficiently accommodate and profit off all the needs and wants of the company's employees), as well as improve infrastructure and quality of life for the employees living there. Already the Platinum Gate is becoming somewhat of a second capital, both politically (as much as things could even be political within the company) and economically. Given the aggression in the east against the USSR, and their subsequent annexation, it became clear that Messier 51a was not going to be a peaceful galaxy. As such, the company begins constructing another Langschwert-class Destroyer, and one Abfangjäger-class Corvettes in their small shipyard above Siegfriedshafen. Government-funded research and development in the University of the aforementioned planet remains focused on obtaining a superior fighter model. Furthermore, the shipyard (which began upgrades last year) sees considerably more investment and expansion, hoping to bring it up to greater capacity. The colony ship produced last year is dispatched north-east to colonise the fringes of VBAG space. As the colony is constructed, a resource survey is conducted to try and identify any deposits of rare minerals the VBAG can mine. Summary: 2 Business Stacks on Platin Tor [40AP, 60AP on Platin Tor, 160AP total] 1 Destroyer, 1 Corvettes [4AP] T2 Fighter Model [8RP/20RP] SL4 [8AP, 22AP total] Colonisation and TCs Resource Survey new sectors VBAG Info

Vereinigte Bergwerke AG After the Saryn arrival to Earth, promising passage to Messier 51a, a conglomerate of German mining magnates formed to construct their own vessel that could utilise the Messier gate and these industrialists could preserve the lives of them and their families. They did, however, bring a sizable number of employees and their families with them (mostly out of necessity for the continuation of these businesses past the extermination of life on Earth, but a philanthropist spin was placed on it). They invested the majority of their personal and corporate wealth in the construction and launch of their collective work: the KS Befreiung. The ship was launched and entered the portal without a hitch, aside from the relatively minor detail of actually staying with the rest of humanity's survivors. When the Befreiung was separated from the rest of the human fleet, it found itself close to a rather hospitable planet, though a little rocky at that. The ship landed, and VBAG immediately set about organising the construction of a settlement by and for its employees. Eventually a city took shape among the mountains, and VBAG took the governance of the people upon itself, though obviously they were still employees of the company. The Board of Directors now found itself not only responsible for the company and its employees in the context of business, but also for every aspect of this fledgling society's existence, from as mundane as housing to as abstract as cultural preservation. Luckily, there were experienced and committed Directors leading the VBAG to greatness, and profit. The Board of Directors Ernest Friedrich von Linde Prior to the arrival of the Saryn and the merger of the eight companies, von Linde was the CEO of the largest of the companies and is therefore considered by most to be the de facto leader of the VBAG - or at least the most influential of the directors. He is also one of the more charismatic and PR-conscious of the Directors, taking a key personal role in promoting his company and now the VBAG. As such, von Linde tends to be the face of the VBAG. Leopold Ullstein A progress-minded innovator, Ullstein is a committed technocrat - his business' swift rise due to its cutting edge mining technologies and techniques being testament to that. As far as Ullstein is concerned, the quickest and best path to profit is to ensure your business is ahead of the curve in tech, and is determined to try and keep the VBAG on that path. Otto Quandt A serious, ruthless entrepeneur, Quandt built his mining business from the ground up - and is exceptionally proud of himself. One of the more reluctant members of the Board, Quandt is the main rival of von Linde, seeing himself as being the most worthy of being at the helm of VBAG. Niklaus Bamberger Bamberger is new onto the business scene, having inherited his father's company only a couple years before the arrival of the Saryn. He never paid much attention to his father's teaching and as such, is considered by the other directors to be a hapless and naive businessman. All the same, he "earned" his way onto the board with his father's money, and is now eager to prove himself to his peers. Matthias Delphinius Berlitz A bit of a surprise inclusion for many of the directors, Berlitz is considered to be somewhat of a mining maverick. Berlitz was notorious on Earth for violating many unspoken rules and traditions among the magnates, cutting into long-standing markets that other companies considered their domain. Though his first and foremost concern is his own profit, he knows that his and the VBAG's well-being are intertwined, and so he will take any steps to ensure the company is at the top. Ulrich Mueller-Stahl Mueller-Stahl is, along with Bamberger, one of the board's "little guys". Unlike, Bamberger, his character and personal qualities aren't routinely called into question, but his company was the smallest, and so his voice is often lost among the bellows of the more powerful Directors. Siegmund Kretschmann Kretschmann is very much a "man of the people", championing workers' rights in his own company and now being the foremost voice of the employees' welfare on the VBAG's board. While he too desires profit, Kretschmann sees exploitation of his employees as not effective or desirable in the pursuit of it. Karl von Lausitz Von Lausitz certainly didn't run the largest company that formed the VBAG, but his company's and his own age meant he was well-respected and influential among the Board of Directors. Very much a product of the 21st century, von Lausitz believes that a business in Messier 51a will profit just as well using the traditional practices of business on Earth. In the orbital shipyards above Siegfriedshafen, two ships begin construction. One is a Wiedergeburt-class colonial freighter, destined for the sector south-west of the capital. The other is a Langschwert-class destroyer, which for now will remain orbiting Siegfriedshafen. Meanwhile, on the surface, 8,000 droid troops enter production as a ground-based defense force, utilising robots to spare manpower where possible. Simultaneously, a moderate investment is made into business on the planet of Platin Tor, in the Stolz sector to the north-east of the capital. The capital itself had already been developed as far it could in terms of the necessary infrastructure and services for supporting business, and so the VBAG had begun developing the other planets of the company, with Tagtraum in the Herbst sector hosting a number of VBAG subsidiaries already. The VBAG broadcasts across Messier 51a, both giving and requesting information from other surviving parts of the human fleet. They manage to get in touch with many other humans, and even a couple of pre-existing alien civilisations, though both were apparently originally from the Milky Way as well, and some trade deals are concluded and diplomatic moves made. In the University of Siegfriedshafen, research begins in the Department of Engineering on improving the fighter model of the VBAG, so as to improve the effectiveness of the VBAG's private fleet in combat. Summary: 1 Colonial Freighter, 1 Destroyer [6AP] Shipyard [2AP] Business Stack on Platin Tor [20AP] T2 Fighter Model [4RP/20RP] VBAG Info

Duchy of Leyawiin The Argonian attack on peaceful, trade-protecting Leyawiinian vessels was a truly deplorable act. It would not be tolerated. A trading post is begins construction in Leyawiin, the Duchy now having enough resources to accomodate a great volume of trade with outsiders. As the building is constructed, envoys are sent to Elsweyr to speak to the lords of Torval and Corinthe, and to Valenwood to speak with the lord of Southpoint. The hope is that negotiations on the trade agreement will be completed just as the trading post was completed, and trade could ensue straight away. A galley begins construction in the drydock of Leyawiin, destined to join the Classis Nibenus. The rest of the Classis, which was in for repairs after their skirmish, remains in port. 500 heavy infantry also begin training. Meanwhile, Marcus Aemilius rides north to Imperial City, informing Vidinia of the Argonian attack on innocent Leyawiinian vessels and their outrageous demand that Leyawiin withdraw her ships from the Topal Bay. He asks the lord of the Reclaimers for naval assistance in repelling the Argonian fleet so that Leyawiin's sovereignty can be maintained and her trade can be protected. Actions Summary: Building Trade post [15AP] Asking Torval, Corinthe, and Southpoint for trade in advance Constructing galley [6AP] 500 Heavy Infantry [3AP] Asking Vidinia for aid Waiting for Envoy return Leyawiin Info

Duchy of Leyawiin The birth of a son, named Quintus, was met with much jubilation among the ruling classes of Leyawiin, and is proudly announced to all of Cyrodiil. Still, Marcus Aemilius was not one to tarry about in celebration. Leyawiin still needed her guiding hand. This year, a massive settlement and town construction effort is undertaken, with two whole provinces being moved into. Securing a greater portion of the Blackwood would provide more lumber, and further securing the east bank of the Lower Niben would make trade along it far safer, and therefore more profitable. A polite request is sent north to Vidinia, to whom Marcus was related by marriage, asking the newly declared Cyrodiilic Empire to not settle any further south within Cyrodiil. The Ayleid Relic in Telepe was both unsettling, and intriguing. Such an artifact could prove a powerful tool in future endeavours, and so Marcus was determined to find a way of taming it. Experts on Ayleids and their artifacts across Tamriel are sought in an attempt to at least deactivate the artifact, and hopefully find a way of controlling it. When, or if, they are found, they are immediately given lease to enter Telepe and begin their work. A caravel is constructed, and once completed will be sent to join the Classis I Nibenus in their trade protection in the Lower Niben and Topal Bay. Actions Summary Settling two provinces [20AP] Reclaimers Request [See Above Ayleid Experts Wanted [2AP, see above] Caravel built and patrolling [4AP] Leyawiin Information

Duchy of Leyawiin A new province is settled over the Niben River. The aim is to fully secure Leyawiin's hold on the river, and the bay by extension, by ensuring that there were no other threats, either from bandits, creatures, or other nations down the line. In order to combat the eldritch forces that prevented a proper expedition and clearing into Telepe, Marcus Aemilius arranges for the recruitment of 20 mages, half trained in Restoration to ward against the enrapturing spell, and half trained in alteration to provide some foresight by detecting any hostile creatures, living or dead, in advance. Once the mages arrived, they would move in with the already camped out troops and attempt to clear Telepe of the seemingly malevolent presence inhabiting it. The smugglers who had attempted to sneak a full 5 tons of drugs into the Imperial City are given an opportunity to gain amnesty from Leyawiin's law. They are given back command of their ships on the condition that they go sell the skooma and moonsugar on in Blackmarsh and return to Leyawiin with the profits. A few hostages are taken to prevent them going back on their word. Marcus Aemilius gets down to bidniss with Cissiinia. Action Summary: Settling new province [10AP] Recruiting 10 Restoration Mages [4AP] Recruiting 10 Alteration Mages [4AP] Expedition to Telepe [See Above] Selling on Skooma/Moonsugar in Blackmarsh B A M B A M Leyawiin Info

Thulean Republic The Redon's request was rather large, but given the collective worth of the technologies and blueprints he had handed over, the Thuleans had obtained quite the bargain. The military industry of the Republic was sure to be busier than it had ever been, as rather than cutting Thule's own military budget to allow for some economic investment alongside the order, the government had decided to press on with militarisation. As such, this year 5 Arbitre-class Light Cruisers, 2 Mandat-class Heavy Cruisers, and 1 Chevalier-class Destroyer begin construction in Svarog Shipyards, while on the surfaces of the multiple developed worlds the Republic possesses, 2,400 Rakxar Mk. III fighters begin construction for the Redon. The new engine technology's development also continues, although with considerably less funding than originally had been planned for the year. The colony ship, upon completion, is loaded up with supplies and passengers as soon as possible and departs to the planned sector, which has been designated Émeraude. They settle on the planet, the renaming of which was left to the predominantly Ymorian settlers, who chose Nouvelle Ymorie, a name to honour their lost nation in a language to honour their new one. Already, the Thulean population has reach a size sufficient to support an eighth planetary colony, and as such another colony ship enters production. The newly claimed territories are surveyed for any resource deposits, as are the rest of the northern territories, which had for far too long gone unsurveyed. Summary: 5 Light Cruisers, 2 Heavy Cruisers [37AP] 2,400 Fighters for the Redon [24AP] Engine Tech [7AP, 20AP Total] Colonising planet and making TCs Colony Ship [3AP] Resource Survey of Northern TCs Thulean Republic Data

Duchy of Leyawiin With the acceptance of the other nations for the Southern Tamrielic Trade Accord, Leyawiin was noticeably more prosperous. Merchants from across the southern portion of the continent did business in the city, bringing both goods and customers to the Leyawiinian market. However, to make sure this prosperity was maintained, steps would have to be taken. One of which was securing Topal Island, an unclaimed island in Topal Bay. Such an island was a potential base for pirates, which was of course a threat to the Southern Tamrielic Trade Accord's routes. The Cohors I Auxilia, composed of 2,000 men, sails over on the Classis I Nibenus to dispatch of any pirates. Once cleared, the island would be settled and a new town built. The Argonian Lord on the western Blackmarsh Coast are assured that Leyawiin's seizure of the island is purely to protect trade, and that Leyawiin has no designs on Blackmarsh. They are offered non-aggression pacts to officialise this assurance. Two caravels are built in order to help patrol the Topal Bay and Lower Niben, and to protect trade. They begin construction, and upon completion they would link up with the Classis I Nibenus [2 cogs] and begin protecting trade in the bay and river. The scouts report from Telepe was somewhat troubling. The bandits not only precluded entry into the Ayleid Ruin, but the presence of bandits so deep in the Leyawiinian heartland was sure to cause all sorts of problems if left untreated. As such, the Legio I Leiavinium is dispatched to clear out the bandit stronghold near Telepe. Once successful, explorers would be sent to explore the ruin, and find any treasure and artifacts, whether they're magical or mundane. Actions Summary Settling Topal Island [10AP] Assuring western Argonians and offering NAPs Building 2 Caravels [8AP] Beginning patrolling Topal Bay and Lower Niben Clearing out Telepe with 3,000 Heavy Infantry and 2,000 Light Infantry, then exploring Leyawiin Info

Thulean Republic With the unconditional surrender of the Ymorian Unity Council, vast numbers of refugees had fled south, particularly to the Redon Imperium. The Redon had requested of Thule, as well as Asgard, to assist with dealing with this wave by taking on 200,000 Ymorians, to which Thule happily agreed. For now the Ymorians are housed in temporary housing while the government produces a colony ship and a new planet colonised for the Ymorians. The Redon is consulted in advance for permission to the colony location, and the new claims made with it. Furthermore, Thule does a census on the refugees to try and find if any scientists, engineers etc are present among the population Thule took on. Meanwhile, the investment into business and the supporting infrastructure on Belenos continues, as already the investments were netting huge returns for the Republic. The remilitarisation continues, this year with a focus on screen ships. A great deal of the vessels are constructed at the once again active Svarog station, and the sailors recruited and trained with them. These vessels, as well as current ones, would be given a steel-itoron hull armour in order to improve their structural integrity, using itoron from the newly discovered deposit on the recently colonised planet of Porte en Platine. The Thuleans, looking for a new technological direction in which they could pursue the attainment of an edge, begin research into new forms of ship propulsion in order to improve sub-stellar and combat speed and maneuverability. Frequently it had been the case that alien ships had managed to outpace those of the Thuleans, either in pursuit or being pursued, and so the need had been aptly demonstrated. For now, this consists of producing a new form of fusion drive, one with greater thrust output and efficiency, in order to improve the speed and agility of Thulean military vessels. The Redon's government is consulted for approval and advice. In a similar vein of military technological advancement, the Republic petitions the Redon for an advanced fighter production license. The current fighter pattern of the Republican Navy is basic in every way, and thus any generation of the Redon’s own fighters would be appreciated, cutting edge or otherwise. Summary: [+2AP from FCA] Colony ship [3AP] Asking Redon for next year colony and claim approval [See above] Looking for scientists, engineers, etc among Ymorians Business Investment on Belenos [20AP; 60AP total on Belenos, 140AP total overall] 6 Corvettes, 7 Frigates, 3 Destroyers, 1 Light Cruiser [34AP] Upgrading all ships with Steel-Itoron armour Engine Technology, asking Redon [13AP; see above] Asking Redon for fighter tech [See above] Thulean Republic Data

Duchy of Leyawiin The marriage of Marcus Aemilius Caro and Ciissinia Vidinia was to be quite the spectacle, with two of the most prosperous houses in Cyrodiil coming together. All the lords of Cyrodiil are invited, from Cheydinhal to Anvil, Bruma to Bravil. Leyawiin's allies in Rimmen are also invited. Marcus of course acceded to Vidinia's terms of blessing, with regular visits to the Imperial City being likely anyway. Leaving the planning of the wedding to his stewards and the House of Vidinia, Marcus gets his minds to matters of the realm. [MOD for NPCs] The complaining Argonians had given Marcus quite the grand idea: the South Tamrielic Trade Accord. The idea was a simple one: promoting trade between the nations of Elsweyr, Valenwood, Blackmarsh, Cyrodiil, and the Altmer - with Leyawiin at the heart. The signatories would be afforded exemption from the Niben Toll and the Bridge Toll, in exchange for establishing a merchant presence in Leyawiin and conducting trade there. The Accord is advertised as not only a way to have freer trade around the Niben, but also to allow nations to conduct their trade with nations that normally would be too far or too difficult to reach, as their merchants could collectively do business in the centrally located Leyawiin. As the host to this, Leyawiin would of course enjoy sizable benefits from the amount of traders coming to Leyawiin and conducting business there. As stated, all the lords of Cyrodiil, Elsweyr, Valenwood, and Blackmarsh are invited to the South Tamrielic Trade Accord, at well as the Altmer. [MOD for NPCs] More mundanely, another investment is made into the local industries, this time with a focus on the logging industry which had been slower to grow than others, despite the rich forests across the Niben. Furthermore, another 1,000 Heavy Infantry are recruited, trained, and placed in the Legio I Leiavinium, replacing 1,000 Light Infantry who are moved into the Cohors I Auxilia. Scouts are sent to the Ayleid Ruin of Telepe, only a short ride from Leyawiin, to determine if there are any hostile presences based in there. If not, they are instructed to see if they can explore it. Actions Summary [+2 AP from Vidinia gift] Caro-Vidinia Marriage South Tamrielic Trade Accord [See Above] Economic Investment - Logging Focus [10AP] 1,000 Heavy Infantry [6AP] Scouts to Telepe Leyawiin Info