thesmellypocket

U   S   S   R

Division of Labour

As Poliorcetes’ rule continues, it becomes clear he is not the man he once was. Whilst in Moscow and on Earth his word is supreme, elsewhere in the Solar System and in the Armed Forces it is Kukov’s word that counts. Kukov is the only force that keeps Poliorcetes in check. Droning years of senseless flattery have assailed the General Secretary’s brain, and it turned into a mush of madness. Kukov is the only man with the courage to speak plainly to his Leader: other men would fear reprisal – to be labelled ‘counter-revolutionary’ by the KGB and tossed into a maelstrom of torture and malice. But Kukov knows that his Secretary would never do it to him, so he speaks plainly, and speaks sense to the man nominally his superior. Rumours even emerge in anti-Soviet newspapers that Poliorcetes believes himself to be a God – like the famous Demetrius the Besieger himself. But these rumours are untrue, because Kukov keeps a hold on Poliorcetes’ increasingly tenuous sanity. 

Kukov is, in many ways, a normal man. He is intelligent, yes, but not a genius. What he does have is the ability to command respect and loyalty from others, and an ability to delegate, allowing others to realise their full potential. The unhinged and confusing leadership of Poliorcetes, and the ultra-competent and exceptional leadership of Kukov seem to contrast: as the years wear on, the civilian sphere starts to fall behind technologically and doctrinaly, whilst the military sphere seems to be flourishing. Kukov embraces bold new technologies and doctrines, whilst the intelligent are driven toward a military career, instead of the poisoned flattery of the civil service or the ill-funded stupidity of civilian technological research. 

Back to the Drawing Board

Soviet military scientists attempt to improve their new cruiser by compromising some of the vessel’s extreme speed with reinforced armour. To ensure equipment failures are kept to a minimum, even once the cruisers enter active service, extra field engineers are attached to them, so that they can quickly weed out any flaws that appear post-construction. With this improved design, the 301 cruisers are hoped to begin construction.

International Propaganda Division(s)!

Soviet strategists spy the potential of revolt in undermining a potential enemy. There is only one problem to be found in the Soviets attempting to take advantage of popular upheaval as a weapon...

...In the increasingly bipolar world of Soviet Russia, there quickly arise not one, but two ’International Propaganda Divisions.’ The first, based in Moscow and under the firm control of Poliorcetes’ KGB, is called the Division of International Propaganda. Its task is to undermine enemy regimes through the dispersal of pro-Soviet propaganda, or at least anti-imperialist. The second, under the army and Kukov, is called The International Propaganda Division, and has the exact same task. With the way things are in the USSR at the minute, the DIP has control over Earth and Moscow, whilst the IPD commands the power of the Armed Forces and interstellar power.

ACTIONS

-Division between Poliorcetes’ circle and Kukov emerges.

-Improved cruiser design.

-TWO efforts at international propaganda.

U  S  S  R

Rearmament

In response to the re-arming of other Empires and the claims of the British, the USSR embarks on a programme of National Rearmament. A new class of Cruiser is ordered to be created, to match the new French equivalent. It is to carry and take advantage of those engine and communications improvements that should make it vastly faster than any other ship of its kind, whilst retaining an awesome broadside. The French plan is to construct three hundred of their new class: in what is obviously a direct response, the Soviets plan for the construction of three hundred – and one! This is called the Gregory-Class. Other Soviet ships are also fitted with these new engines or modified, making the Soviet fleet by far the fastest in the Solar System; the new engines, despite their brilliance, are relatively cheap and easy to manufacture, meaning they can be made standard issue without too much hassle. Communications technology is also implemented. 

In addition, joint exercises are held with the German Empire’s navy, putting into practice Soviet theory about patrols and independent action. Not only are joint anti-piracy patrols and actions launched in unison, but leaders from both countries’ military-industrial complexes gather at Minsk to discuss a deal that will see needed strategic goods exchanged for the benefit of Germany and the USSR.

Finally, the Soviets send two expeditions to attempt to expand their influence to what were previously considered out-of-reach planets. Firstly, a military base and small colony is set up at Halimede, a moon of Neptune. Secondly, Atlas, one of Saturn’s moon is similarly colonised. The Soviets assert their control of these moons, which are fitted with the new communications technology. These bases, although having a small civilian or colonial presence, are meant to be almost entirely defensive in nature. They are massively reinforced. Soviet theorists think that, as the lone presence of Malta as a British island irritated the Axis in the Mediterranean, so a very heavily fortified Soviet presence could act similarly. 

Infiltration!

Religion is the opiate of the people. In a secret meeting in Moscow, Poliorcetes tasks the KGB with undermining the greatest existent religious institution – the Catholic Church. Marxist forms of theology, labelled ‘Liberation Theology’ are sponsored, whilst clerical power is attacked. The Soviets launch a long-term plan to infiltrate the Church with priests, bishops and eventually cardinals – and perhaps a Pope – by getting these priests in on the pretence of ‘modernising the Church.’

ACTIONS

-Gregory-Class commissioned. 301 built.

-Engine and communications tech, vastly superior to other empires’, is implemented.

-Joint anti-piracy operations and exercises with the Germans; exchange of strategic resources.

-Two colonies – naval bases – set up.

-KGB attempt to infiltrate the Catholic Church!

THE HOLY SEE

’Jesus answered: My kingdom is not of this world.’ (John 18:36.)

THE UNIVERSAL HEAD

In reaction to the attacks on Christians by the Young Turks, the Pope gives an immediate and powerful response. The Papacy sets up many shanty towns for refuge in Syria and Lebanon to which Christian refugees in Anatolia can temporarily flood into. An immense effort and sacrifice is put into this. The Pope’s continued message of Church Unity rings through, with Eastern and Western Christians alike given shelter and aid by the Church.

But, amazingly, the Holy Father does not stop there. If he is to be seen as Universal Head of Christendom, he must seal that by direct action. For a month, the Council at Nicaea is given a temporary recess. In that time, the Pope races to Syria himself to visit the refugee camps and give help to the afflicted. By taking only half a dozen Swiss guardsmen, he puts himself in immense danger, and is practically an open target for Young Turks and other fanatics. But he continues to visit the camps: preaching, supporting and blessing. It is hoped this singular act of sheer courage will convince the world that the Pope is very, very serious on this matter, and that the Orthodox will begin to see him as the Head and Protector of Christendom.

Assuming the Pope returns, he re-convenes the Council, pressing further for a mending of the Schism. The Pope also re-iterates his will for Christians to support the Caliph’s war on terror. ‘Only together can we combat this scourge; this evil cabal of men murdering innocent blood.’

’This is my body, which is given for you.’ (Luke 22:19)

MISSIONARY WORK

With much of the Church’s resources engaged in combating the persecution in the East or the crisis in the West, the Pope has but little for his planned missionary expedition to Japan. However, a fervent heart and an iron will could achieve much, Innocent reckoned. Several missions are dispatched to Japan to begin converting the local populace and administering the Sacraments. Small, humble chapels are set up for now. 

In addition, these Japanese missions include one to Korea, and several to China as well. It is hoped these countries will be more open to conversion efforts.

ACTIONS

-Pope goes full madman and goes into the warzone himself to help set up refugee camps.

-Council of Nicaea continues, in the light of the persecution and of the Pope’s courage. 

-Several missions to Japan and China; one to Korea. 

-Charity and aid work done by the lay movements set up by the Pope over the previous year and a half continue their work.

A DECREE

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LNX0eXbd3rO8i8tv_xfzh00R90n4qg-kEZWckySnFbw/edit

U  S  S  R

The Pirate Scourge

The sudden appearance of pirates presented the perfect opportunity, but also a great threat. It would allow the Soviets to test Kukov’s ambitious theories of flexible command; it would give the Soviets a chance to present themselves to the people of the world as a strong and renewed power. Immediately, Poliorcetes demands swift action. ‘I smoked out those partisans practically with my bare hands. With the Soviet Fleet behind me, these pirates had better learn to fear the same fate!’

Poliorcetes allows Marshal Kukov to use his ambitious theories against the Pirates. The streamlined command is put to the test. Ships and squadrons are encouraged to use the initiative and respond quickly should any pirates be caught attacking shipping. On all planets, defences are reinforced. Kukov also learns from the ‘sinking’ of the Minotaur. The USSR’s patrol vessels operate in squadrons, and their number of long range armaments are increased – anything to prevent the kind of close-range fist-fight that sealed the fate of the Minatour. 

In the meantime, Soviet military scientists are ordered to draw whatever conclusions they can from the Anglo-French blunders. What improvements in organisation, armament and practice could be made to make sure the same thing does not happen to the USSR?

But most important of all is the propaganda campaign. Propaganda seeps onto every planet and on every trade station; it blares on every loudspeaker and television in the USSR. Everywhere the USSR is portrayed as the guardian against piracy. Other nations had failed to protect or take responsibility. The USSR would not be among them. Kukov’s towering figure and status of the Hero of the Soviet Union is ever-more proclaimed.  Very publicly, any pirates captured alive suffer the most terrible execution or torture, or perhaps a lifetime sentence in the country’s very worst prison camps.

Marshal Georgi Kukov.

The Balkan Question

Poliorcetes attempts to build up Soviet control in the Balkans. The People’s Republics of Greece, Serbia, Rumania and Bulgaria are all visited by the Dictator himself, who promises considerable military and economic investment yet also security if they will bring themselves under the Soviet sphere of influence. 

’For too long have the Balkan nations been the mere playthings of imperial ambition; a stepping stone on the path to bloody conquest. The Soviet alliance will see the integrity and strength of these countries not only protected, but expanded.’ 

Georgiy Poliorcetes in Moscow.

Reaction

Popov’s World Cup heroics are treated with enthusiasm in Moscow. Popov begins to bring through two star players who could become world class for Russia. The first is 18 year-old winger Ivan Lunyov, an electric winger from Minsk. The young man can beat his man and curl in a beautiful cross, and has a decent finish in him, too. The other is centre-back Petros Haroyan, an 6 foot 6 man-mountain from Armenia. Seen as a true working class hero, he captains the side at the young age of 21, and is hoped to be a leader for the next decade or so. This player is the voice of reason and leadership in the dressing room. He relishes the responsibility of the armband and Popov is happy to make the bold decision of conferring it.

Popov continues to attempt to build a style of play based on fast, pacey counter-attacks. Russia now prepare for the European Championships, which they feel to have a decent chance of winning.

USSR Manager Popov.

ACTIONS

-Attempt to protect against pirate attacks and put Kukov’s ideas to the test by patrolling the stars with flexible armoured squadrons. Patrol-level aircraft increased level of long-range armament. 

-Attempt to learn from the sinking of the Minotaur and from the Soviet anti-pirate operations.

- Propaganda highlighting Moscow’s role in cracking down on piracy.

-Attempt to bring Balkans under the Soviet sphere.

-Preparation for Euros and next World Cup; two key players emerge.

((On an OOC note, it’s really surprising to see this again! I had almost forgotten it. Thank you.

Adolf von Manstein smiles from beyond the grave to see his work re-printed.

U   S   S   R

The Second Revolution, 2924-34.

The USSR is re-awakening.

In the midst of the waves of colonisation, the USSR fell behind. Stagnating for centuries, it fell to Poliorcetes in 2924 to sort matters out. There would be no more hand-waving gestures to decency. The country would be cleansed, re-shaped and re-invigorated. Borisovich called this period the ‘Second Russian Revolution’, and he was bang on. Suspected seditious elements were eliminated with staggering brutality, earning the new Secretary General his famous nickname, whilst Poliorcetes re-shaped every aspect of life in the USSR. The KGB was strengthened and centralised to make it the most effective intelligence and counter-intelligence force on Earth – or anywhere else, for that matter. Surveillance in daily life  became even more pervasive than before, to the point where the Soviet citizen has not a single moment to himself.

Religion and tradition were all but expunged. The married family as an institution ceased to exist. History was rootless. No pre-revolutionary history, literature or theory was taught, except to denigrate it. In reality, the elites of the USSR still enjoyed these things. They alone had access, and their children alone, in their lavish, all-but private schools, were taught them.  Birth control was everywhere: when the USSR wanted fewer births, mass abortions and contraception would be mandated. There are even rumours in the more wild of anti-Communist newspapers abroad of deliberate infant mortality by agents of the State. But when population growth was needed, the opposite became mandatory: contraception and abortion were banned with the strictest enforcement, whilst natalism became the order of the day.

‘Gentlemen, the second stage of the revolution has begun.’

It is now ten years since Poliorcetes began that Revolution. Now he will take it to the stars.

Technological Affairs

The USSR puts massive efforts into improving space transportation and communication. This becomes almost the sole focus of technological development. It is hoped to drastically reduce the time needed for interplanetary travel, whilst making methods of near-instant communication probable in the coming years. Possible ways of making these things happen are explored. 

Response to Resource Crisis

The USA is approached in response to their offer and peaceful trade and co-operation. The USSR concur with these ideas and offer an agreement of mutual free trade and symbolic friendship.

The Soviet Armed Forces

Marshal Kukov, a full six foot and seven inches, towered over the tallest soldiers at the parades of Red Square. Kukov, who rose from the ranks on sheer merit, is no brute. He may not be a military genius, but his vast experience and direct style of leadership combine with a unassailable willpower to make him a formidable leader. And that leader is given the power to shape the Armed Forces in his image.

With a lot of funding diverged to the transportation research, Kukov cannot afford large improvements in equipment or expansion in numbers. Instead, he concentrates on administration. The Solar System is vast, and centralised command can often be impractical. Therefore, based on practical experience and the experience of his trusted subordinates, Kukov totally streamlines the command structure of the Armed Forces. Everything is simplified and, in interplanetary warfare, emphasis is put on fast initiative and quick-thinking. The Army, Navy, Air Force and Space Force remain technically and in terms of unit status separate, but Kukov’s efforts see the distinction fade in all but name. Official documents only really refer to the Armed Forces, never really the Red Army or Navy.

World Cup Glory

With the World Cup looming in the Summer, the USSR must prepare in the proper way. Firstly, there is a new appointment – and a bold one. Igor Popov is appointed manager of the Soviet National Team. At a mere 35 years of age he is by far the youngest manager at international level, but in a moment of chaos at his club he found himself in caretaker control, saving his club from relegation in the process. Next year, he took them into the Soviet Premier League. Such promise was rewarded by the Soviet FA, who awarded the former right-back the role with enthusiasm.

Popov likes to bring youth players through; it is expected he will name a very young squad for the World Cup. It is clear the Soviets are building for the future with Popov. Meanwhile, to coincide with the appointment, the FA promote ‘grassroots football’ at every level, and reform the academy system in order to bring through more domestic talent. Popov’s 4-4-2, counter-attacking style raises pulses and might just suit a courageous young team.

Actions

-Transportation and communication research.

-USA approached for trade agreement.

-Armed Forces streamlined.

-Igor Popov appointed Soviet Union Manager.

Discord Name; You have it

Nation of Choice (and why?); USSR, to make Mars even more...Red.

Head of State: General Secretary Georgiy Borisovich, more commonly known as Poliorcetes. He was once named by a popular Greek newspaper ‘Poliorcetes’ or ‘The Besieger’ for his harsh repression in starving out counter-revolutionary partisans, and the name stuck. Georgiy Poliorcetes became a world famous name.

Head of Government: THE SAME! Although Poliorcetes’ right-hand man is Marshal Kukov, a Red Army soldier and an absolute giant. 

Ideology: Marx-Leninism; Stalinism.

Military statistics: You have them.

Did you read all the information?: Yes.

Suggestions or feedback?: Give the USSR more ships!

’She shall crush thy head, and thou shalt lie in wait for her heel.’ (Genesis 3:15)

THE COUNCIL OF NICAEA

But by far the most momentous development of the year was the Council of Nicaea. With the full sponsorship of the Ottoman and Russian governments secured, the Papacy hopes to bring the Orthodox back into the fold. The Patriarch of Constantinople is allowed to retain his ‘Primus Inter Pares’ (First among equals) status among the Bishops of the East; the ability afforded him by the Ottoman Emperor to be recognised as the chief representative of Christians in the Caliphate is retained. Most Orthodox liturgical practises will also be retained. In their turn, the Orthodox Bishops will accept Catholic doctrine and Papal Supremacy.

Meanwhile, it is reasoned that, as part of a greater, Catholic whole, a unified Church will have a greater voice: Christians around the world will be all the more secure and have all the more resources to call upon. If there is persecution, if the Christians fall upon hard times and cannot afford the Jizya, or if the Church needs a permission for a Basilica here or a Cathedral there, it is as a single ‘Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church’ that She will be best placed to articulate these things. The Pope, who has excellent relations with both the Ottoman and Russian monarchs, is best placed to be the universal protector of Christians.

In the wake of the Council deep in Ottoman territory, the Pope praises the Caliph, Mehmed V, and encourages Christians to see him as a legitimate and fair ruler. ‘His action in helping this Council proves his goodwill,’ he said. ‘I encourage Christians to pay their taxes and help the rebuilding efforts. For it is written: ‘Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God, the things that are God’s.’ (Matthew 22:21)

With the Patriarchs of Constantinople and Moscow on side, it is hoped the others will soon follow.

ADDITIONAL ACTIONS

-Council held at Nicaea for Church unity.

-Ottoman Emperor praised.

THE PAPACY

THE CHRONICLE OF JERUSALEM

(Bugger forum formatting)

A.D MCCIV.

IN this year hence, King Amalric sealed the alliance with the King of Cilicia by marrying his daughter, Helvis, to him. The betrothal, sealed in the previous year, could be made good in the next due to Helvis reaching the age of XIV. 

The King of the Armenians accepted his new bride with loving devotion – and gracious friendship with her father. The Bishop of Ramla is dispatched with the bride to act as the King’s representative in the Armenian realm, where plenteous store abounded and he was given to much feasting among our King’s new allies.

During this time, Queen Isabella governed the realm while her husband was fighting in the Crusade.

The Queen sends ambassadors to the West with great haste and energy. These exhort French, English, Welsh, German, Polish, Scottish, Italian and other knights, in the name of Saint Baldwin, to join the fight in the Holy Land. Commoners in these countries are alike courted. They point out the victories of Ascalon and Ibelin, and the persecution and expulsion of Christians that ‘should leave the Franks with no choice but to fight.’ Isabella knows that she will vex John, King of the English and Phillip, the King of the Franks. If men take up the Cross, their evil wars with brother Christians will be much weakened. 

ACTIONS

-Leo of Armenia and Helvis of Jerusalem marry.

-The Queen appoints the BIshop of Ramla as her husband’s permanent ambassador in Armenia.

-Appeal to western knights and commoners to take up the cross.

THE CHRONICLE OF JERUSALEM

(Bugger forum formatting)

A.D MCCIII.

In THIS YEAR HENCE, a great debate took place in Acre. After the reconciliation of the Emperor of the Romans to the Venetians and the news that the Crusade would, indeed, arrive in the Holy Land, the nobles and, more importantly, the Crown, were unsure of their next action. They could hardly let their brothers attack alone and be slaughtered against the shores of Aegyptus or Syria, but nor could they readily betray the King of Aegyptus, with whom they had made a recent truce.

The debate was transcribed, word for word, by clerks of the Archbishop of Tyre. It ran:

THE KING (To Tripoli): My learned Lord, we pray you justly and religiously unfold why we should, or should not be barred in our Crusade.

TRIPOLI: Caution in all things, my Lord. These Crusaders are trouble if anything – attempting to forcefully convert my Moslem subjects without my permission! Which is more, it is only right we remain how we are, for we have a pact with the King of Aegyptus...

THE QUEEN: Frankly, we have no right -

BEIRUT: – Right and wrong have little to do with it. The Athenians said to the Melians: ‘The strong do what they will, and the weak suffer what they must.’ It is up to us to make sure it is we who do as we will, and others who do the suffering as they must! What of your obligations to the other lords of Outremer – to the Prince of Antioch and your subjects in Cyprus? If it is your wish to see Cyprus in your dynasty’s dominion in the long term, they will not look kindly upon a weak man who lets his co-religionists be crushed by the Mohammedans while he does nothing. 

TYRE: Never had monarch nobles richer, or more loyal subjects whose souls have left their bodies and lie pavilioned beyond the Jordan.

BEIRUT: O, let their bodies follow my liege. With blood and sword to win your right...

TRIPOLI: ...And earn eternal infamy!

There followed a general outcry among the Barons at Tripoli’s exclamation. The KING ordered silence.

QUEEN: Where is our brother, Antioch? He was supposed to bring news of his host.

Upon that, insistent, pounding steps were heard on the castle stairs. Striding in was Antioch’s chief Lieutenant.

ANTIOCH: I know what you are debating, and what news you await. Brother Antioch supports war. He brings a good deal of his host in aid whereof. 

Beirut, Tyre, and all the nobles who supported war looked joyous at the news; those who loved peace had a look of resignation. The support of Antioch turned the High Court of Jerusalem to war. With a heavy heart, the King said:

KING: We are resolved upon war, then. Tell the Teutons to cease immediately their forced conversions in your realm, Tripoli. 

The feudal host had already gathered, along with the Teutonic Knights. Jerusalem, Antioch and Cyprus were joining the Crusade.

Additionally, the king sent envoys to the Pope. The Pope is petitioned to canonise Baldwin IV of Jerusalem.

ACTIONS:

-War with the Ayyubids.

-Forced conversion of Mohemmedans prevented.

-Ask Pope Innocent to canonise Baldwin IV as Saint Baldwin the Leper!

THE PAPACY

A.D MCMXI

Pope Innocent got the council underway with a furious energy and fervour. The usual issues were discussed – Papal authority, the Filioque Clause; liturgical differences. In the end, the usual answer was given: no. Not today. Not ever. The Schism stands. The Church never to be one, never again...

...and the usual answer was not the response of Innocent to the initial setbacks he and his inner circle faced.

After weeks of torturous agony, and some ‘encouragement’ from the Russian Union, closer union with Rome and closer co-operation finally tipped into a discussion about accepting Roman Primacy. The Orthodox would keep all but a few of their liturgical traditions, whilst the Pope would be recognised as the successor of Peter, the head of the Christian Church. Finally – some progress! Joyous newspaper articles around the world rang the bells of sweet victory. The Council members knew that things would not be so easy.

A Thorny Issue

The Filioque Clause of the Nicene Creed, present in the Catholic liturgy but not the Orthodox, represents a major dispute over the nature of the Trinity. Such an issue is not an easy one to accept. A small faction, about a fifth, were able to accept the Catholic interpretation. Most did not.

Innocent did have the advantage of being Archbishop of Athens for a long time. Life in an Orthodox country for decades meant the Bishops on the other side felt they could deal with him reasonably and trust him. In the end, the Filioque was a Catholic dogma and could not be compromised. In order to tip the balance in his favour, the Russian state ‘coincidentally’ gives tax exemption to the Patriarchate of Moscow. It is hoped this will induce the Bishops to support the clause. 

Innocent, during an eccentric moment in the council, rapidly cites Greek and Latin fathers in order to support the Filioque, in a fusillade of impressive theological knowledge.

Pioneering Radio!

The Church tries to pioneer the new technology of radio, trialling sets in every Archdiocese. Broadcasts are in many languages and report on Catholic affairs, help in prayer life, encourage alms-giving to the poor, and promote Catholic teachings. They also report on the Council of Ravenna. 

Other Affairs

-The Pope makes good on his proposed visit to Poland. The Pope praises the independent spirit and piety of the Polish people, and wishes them good luck in the future. He reaffirms his call to Catholics for helping those in need, in both charity and in the new Holy Orders set up. 

-The Canonisation process of Joan of Arc is complete. She is Canonised as St Joan.

ACTIONS

-Council of Ravenna continues to try and mend Schism.

-Papacy pioneers the radio to propagate Her beliefs and help believers!

-Pope visits Poland, re-affirming call for charity, alms-giving and Holy Orders in a famous speech. Calls for Catholics in more fortunate lands such as the USA to give aid to war-torn countries like Russia, Austria and France.

-Joan of Arc canonised.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aRvN1Mrdo_apyvv7rGnnXupOS1hYw5djiu2z8WLJUJE/edit (( A E S T H E T I C   post

Nation name: Kingdom of Acre (Officially Kingdom of Jerusalem)

Population: Approximately half a million. Mostly Arab/Middle Eastern Christians (50-60%) with large Muslim (30-40% of the pop.) and Frankish minority (About 10%). Most of the Franks are skilled craftsmen and other valuable people.

Summary of History: Disaster struck at Hattin. Guy de Lusignan foolishly – against the advice of all the barons of the realm, including the Count of Tripoli whose own castle and wife were under threat – decided to give battle at Hattin in order to relieve Tiberias. It was a trap, and all but he could see it. He had staked all of the kingdom’s resources, stripping the garrisons of valuable men. After a disastrous defeat, Saladin could pounce on any town he pleased. Jaffa. Acre. Ascalon. The golden trickle that was the Palestinian coast was lost in a matter of months.

Two cities held out: Jerusalem and Tyre. After the people of Jerusalem refused to surrender to Saladin, the great Sultan swore that he would massacre the people. Only the spirited defence and tough negotiation style of Balian d’Ibelin prevented that, but still, Saladin took tens of thousands of Christians into slavery and the city itself. 

Tyre held out under the command of the formidable Conrad of Montferrat. For years, the Christians held out and counter-attacked at Acre. The arrival of the Third Crusade allowed for not only the conquest of Cyprus, but Richard the Lionheart, who inflicted terrible defeats on Saladin despite having pitiful resources, was able to reconquer all of the coast except Ascalon, and, critically, he was able to take the the port city of Acre. The d’Ibelins are now the second most important noble house in Outremer. Balian’s marriage to Maria Zoe Comnena quadrupled his family’s income and made him second only to Tripoli – with Ibelin, Ramla and Nabalus lost, they now control Beirut. The King of Jerusalem now has some powerful nobles to reckon with.

Discord

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1p9-5L1TclA70t9CVUBGtA9SU2yp66A-FpzV0vnDjBbw/edit Late 1920.

‘Blessed be the LORD my strength which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight…’ - Psalm 144.

Maine, with the full backing of Britain, enters the war on the side of New York and Virginia. 7,000 militiamen, trained for years in skirmish warfare by now-Colonel Vourne, go into battle under the command of General Joseph Chamberlain. The army is ordered to observe strict discipline, refraining from looting or other crimes. Instead, the militia attack any military forces on their border with New Hampshire, and, if possible, advance into their territory.

Prime Minister Coburn recites Psalm 144 and says that, whilst Maine is a Dominion of peaceful intentions, aggressive attitudes on the part of the New England Alliance, including attempting to undermine the very foundations of the state by encouraging treasonable actions, have shown the Alliance to be warlike and hostile. ‘If, in a position of strength they attacked and undermined us, we cannot allow them to gain that strength again, for they WILL destroy us. Therefore, we must strike while it is THEY who are weak, and secure peace and security for Maine for years to come.’

‘I have just received a letter from Mister Temple. [British PM] We have his full backing. Freedom or death for Maine!’

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1i11gDaQilMHgKMFJo6a__gC0n5Y8CgcXtqTUSkuTyKk/edit

’No Sympathy for Concord Bullies’

People of Maine,

Do not listen to the ramblings of this bitter and covetous tyrant. We offered them the olive tree and peace, but they seem desperate to undermine our State; to inflame famine, war and fire. These are the works of evildoers, and not good Christian souls.  I for one shall not be bullied into their ‘Union,’ and will fight for the liberty of Maine. 

They call us a tyranny, yet have no proof thereof. I ask you, how has the Dominion acted tyrannous toward you? Have we suspended the freedom of the press, raised a standing army to occupy our towns, or mistreated our people in any way? Verily, we have not, but have sponsored learning, prosperity, and the free enterprise of Man. Meanwhile, this so-called Union has attempted to bully you into their gang using contemptible tactics. Who is the real tyrant? Who is the real enemy? I say it is them. 

Britain never forced us along this path. We in Maine simply desire peace, prosperity and isolation. The British bring those things, whilst these Unionists render destruction, embody greed, and are evildoers; they wish to force us along THEIR path. 

THE P.M

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RhvvD78p7VagCucS5XYu0erufWM7Q9hGW9urIrKN7CM/edit

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1stz3EBwrjgUoU_WV_m3ZF4qhtW82dVKArO8K0TqGC8E/edit 

THE DOMINION OF MAINE RESPONDS:

’President Banks,

There is no reason to take such a militant stance toward our Dominion. We voluntarily embarked upon this path. Britain did not seek influence in Maine, rather, we approached them. Britain has not enforced Dominion on us, nor the Pound Sterling on Virginia. In fact, it was partly by our recommendation that Virginia took the currency. We have nothing to be released from. In fact, the British have been a great help, and, with a clear conscience, I declare that we will not waver in our actions. We will not voluntarily surrender to you, nor will we abandon those commitments we have made by any declaration. 

The Athenians said to the Melians: ‘The strong do what they can, the weak suffer what they must,’ as Thucydides put it. But we are not weak, and embarked upon this path for our benefit. 

There is no reason why peace and goodwill should be impossible. We desire only peace and the Christianlike accord of nations, to which effect we have raised no standing army, but have put that money to education, in order that the free spirit of men be released, and the nobler part of Man embraced. We are no threat to any independent US State and nor is the United Kingdom.

We hope to see you reconsider your actions, and am quite willing to see your concerns resolved diplomatically,

THE PRIME MINISTER.’

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OulHsCgCMujmjf1A8WOdQzEoZ5tw0qjklaydYC6VohM/edit

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EgVjc67UZa_C_eLvIMfOupAvEaYMiTLXP2kJojcU0CU/edit

Discord Name: Thesmellypocket

Desired State: Maine

History of said State’s history, leadership, and government:

Maine had been a part of the American experiment from the very beginning, being part of the original Thirteen that took the fateful decision to rebel against their overlords. A frontier State with Canada, Maine’s early history was characterised by division and conflict. Harshly split between Loyalists and Revolutionists, it changed hands multiple times during the Revolutionary Wars and the War of 1812. 

The recent collapse of the American state has led many in Maine to take the British offer seriously, in a time where desperate measures become daily practice. Britain shares Maine’s anti-slavery commitments, and in these anarchic times, it pays to have powerful friends.  But if they to throw their lot in with the Whigs and Tories across the pond, they had better do it on their terms, or so Governor Israel Washburn Jr. would have it!

Nominal Leader/President/Governor/etc.: A prominent but pragmatic leader, Washburn in many ways represented the archetypal Republican. But now that pragmatism comes to the fore and he is facing calls to stand alone or align with Britain. Washburn is determined to carve out a path for Maine that would see both sides satisfied. 

Do you want a Custom Character? If so what’s their name and background? (Can only start in low level positions of power): Major Richard Vourne. Born to working class parents from Sheffield, England, Vourne, a hardened professional soldier, a learned stoic and an utter workhorse all rolled into one, is coming to prominence in the newly independent state. His energy and intelligence has lead to him, whatever his official rank, being a voice for a new Maine state army. But many of his ideas take inspiration suspiciously northward, toward Canada.