The History of the World V . . . .

[deity]

[OOC have a virus but will be here. Behind on posts... quick update]

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Manning, who was quite ill, was still at sea with his vet troops East of Concordia after having helped the Spanish and Inca capture Samartian.

He had been belatedly updated with a brief overview of world affairs and was sketching out a few brief policy points to be drafted into a world announcement as soon as he returned to London.

* Alfred a liability - needs to be dealt with
* Apologies to Russia, Spain and other states to be drafted
* Succession of England to be explained
* Sapa Inca complaint - South Concordia plans a total mixup. Vandal, Illinois and the SW strip of Concordia is the first and oldest English colony and no nation shall claim any of it. The site for New Boston has already been donated in the Interests of world peace
* At the LPA it was agreed by Russia and India and China by default to NOT lay claim to any part of Concordia
* If any of the powers needed a Concordian city it was India more than Russia or China.
* The Spanish city of Samartian seemed a sensible compromise to keep Spain in tune with the LPA
* However there may be space for one Russian, Chinese and Indian city if Russia takes the island; India the very southern tip of Concordia and China the far NW
* Germany and America gain one Concordian city now that France had been divided
* The Spanish and German contribution to the conquest of Concordia to be highly praised and further negotiations to occur with these two nations ahead of any grants to the big 3 powers.
* America to be thankfull it has New Boston and part of France

Hmm, thoughts of Manning to be revised at a later time.

Oh for a Queen at this time... as manning heaved over port side...

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[Frank Johnson]

The council of the 108 stars met in the Imperial Chambers at the heart of Beijing. Under their rule with guidance from the Emperor Jian Fu Lin, the Chinese people had flourished.

Although China had always been mighty, they had been rather pecular in some of their methods. The new government had their hands full creating an economic and military base for the country that other nations took for granted.

It had taken many years, but China now had achievements worthy of its self. The Chinese economy had to be entirely retooled. Metropoli filled with millions of citizens had lacked even the most basic of organized markets for the people. Its borders, while open to visiting dignitaries, were strangely closed to outside trade. Jian ended this as soon as the council of elders was able to approve the change in policy. Quickly China became a dominant force in the world economy, while also discovering new ideas about commerce and trade, including economics and the corperation.

Expansion had not passed the mind of the Emperor. With ships of Chinese design he ordered a colony established in South Concordia. The planned site, long ago deemed worthy by Chinese caravel captains, was instead squandered on the backwards Americans, a symbol of the appeasement that the Northern Powers delibrarely instigated in order to deny Imperial China a strong base in the New World. With the New World broken into many small regions, England and Incan forces would continue to dominate the New World for the coming years, however at this time Jian knew of no simple way of checking their dominance. The council had to settle for a plan to settle a backwater colony, that won popular support only after it was discovered a new type of grain, and large quanities of iron could be potentally exported back to China, whose large cities demanded new resources to continue their growth. It was painfully obvious from the size of the Incan and English forces on the continent that all other nations, and their colonies, existed here only at the lesuire of the Norther Powers.

In order to establish a military worthy of defending the large holdings of China, as well as protect its isolated colony in the New World, Jian Fu Lin made an invitation to hire the services of warriors throughout the world. The invitation of the Chinese was quite generous, offering to retrain and equip soldiers at no cost to themselves while compensating their homecountries for their services, and to station them in peaceful garrisions throughout the empire. The windfall of profits from China's economic emergance had left the government with a surplus of gold, but their production capabilities were still streached thin. China left the offer open, but realized it may soon have to turn to its own innovation and toil to secure its status in the coming era. Experts said that the infastructure for China's economy would soon be complete in many regions, allowing for China to continue transforming its military into a modern force to keep up with the likes of India, Russia, and England.

[The Capo]

The Reign of Carlos V

OOC: Dammit, this computer has screwed up horribly! There are purple lines and bars accross the screen and I can hardly see anything, I'll have to get this fixed before the next session.

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The Reign of Carlos V

Carlos V was the seventh leader of Spain, and the first to hold the title of Emperor. Under his reign Spain had expanded to the New World (now known as Concordia), quelled a civil war, established themselves as a Catholic state, established a defensive pact with Russia, and had been at peace for the longest continuous period of time in its entire history. Yet Carlos had regrets; he regretted Spain's involvement in the Boston incident, he regretted Spain's failure to press for peace despite their capabilities, and ultimately he regretted the inquisition; a policy forced upon Spain by the Pope in Yaroslav'l. Two events triggered Carlos to consider retirement - (1) the success of Cristobal Colon in conquering the Sarmatian lands and ensuring himself a hefty retirement, and (2) the brutality and apparent senselessness of the inquisition - he quickly called for an assembly of his chief ministers to Madrid where he would tell them all that they were to be relieved of their duties. These ministers were not pleased, however what could they do? He was the Emperor after all! These men were important leaders in Spanish history, but in the end, it could be said, did nothing for Spain. On this day in 1354 Pedro Abarca de Bolea, Diego de Parma, and General Chavez were replaced...

The Meeting in Madrid...

Complaints from the nobility rained heavily on Carlos for his decision, but none of them knew his ultimate plan, so how could they understand? Carlos realized that Terra was experiencing a changing of the guard, he realized that if Spain wanted to continue competing with other nations on Terra a change had to be made. Already America and Germany, formally known as the "barbarian states" in Spain, had become larger, more powerful, and even had foreign territory under their control. England and the Inca had forged powerful empires in the New World, India was experiencing a golden age of thought and reason, and China was starting the greatest economic boom ever, creating countless treasures for Emperor Jian Fu Lin. It was true, under his rule Spain gained territory, spread the faith, and helped save Concordia from Barbarism, but what else was accomplished?

Thus on May 14th 1354 Carlos summoned the entire clergy, all of the nobility, the ranking officers of the Spanish military, and of course dignitaries from friendly states (you all know who these states are) to Madrid and it's famouse Citadel from which Castille gets its name. His sons Carlos VI, Felipe II, and Alfonso Guzman de Olivares (he was adopted from Carlos' sister Isabella II following the execution of Alfonso's father) were all in attendance, but were not told what the matter at hand was, quite frankly nobody knew and Carlos gave his speech...

My esteemed friends, my warriors, my fellow leaders, I have assembled you all here to Madrid for a day of change and celebration. Spain for centuries has been fortunate to have great allies such as China, India, and Russia. Spain for centuries has been fortunate to share peaceful borders with our neighbors, Spain has been fortunate to share two unique and wonderful faiths in Buddhism and Christianity, Spain has been fortunate to find success in battle and help end the scourge of barbarity in Concordia. Spain has been very fortunate, and I wish to keep it this way. The tides are turning in the world, in China there are free markets establishing great wealth among the citizens of the country and allowing all Chinese men to establish their own destinies, in India President Akbar has become the first leader who's power rests on the consent of the governed, in America and Germany there have been entire restructuring of government, granting them unprecedented success. Now in Spain I wish to follow this trend, but we musn't forget our storied past. We will make changes to our laws, and all of this will be done under the crown of my son, Felipe el Segundo, our military shall be commanded by a moderate leader who understands that sometimes armies are maintained to keep peace, my son General Carlos VI will command our armies. Finally we come to the Foreign Ministry, a position that has been filled with some of Spain's greatest minds shall be filled with my son Alfonso Guzman de Olivares, whose marks at the University of Madrid are without question. You may ask yourself how this will foment independence, how this will tout liberalism, well, these men are young and often at odds with my decisions. I know for a fact they will begin the change. I am far too old to rule anymore, my hair has grown grey, my skin has become wrinkled, and my energy has dwindled. The task of ruling our Empire must befall the young, with this new edict Emperor Felipe II will rule with moderation, and respect for the citizens of this grand Empire. Thank you all for being my friends and associates, and Viva Espana!

The Imperial Court of Felipe II

Prince Carlos VI is the son of Maria de Bourbon and Emperor Carlos V. He was born in Madrid and is the oldest of Carlos V's sons. He began his military training, just as Carlos V had, in the deserts south of Toledo and became a commander of the cavalry, and eventually head of the Conquistadors. During the war of the Spanish succession Carlos VI was a commander in Carlos V army and saw successful victories at Seville and Cordoba, earning himself the nickname "El Matador." Eventually he went on to command the armies under General DeMores in the conquest of Numidia and Sarmatia, and helped establish the colonies of New Spain. He even married the daughter of General Mendoza, Carla Mendoza de Santiago, to show his support for the popular Genera, and the Spanish military. He is the chief commander of the Imperial Army and is in charge of all military affairs in Spain.

Archbishop Horatio II is the most powerful priest in all of Spain, especially since the Buddhist Guru Santo went into exile following the Inquisition. He became Archbishop under Carlos V following the shakeup with Juan Pedro III. Horatio was a close confidant of Emperor Carlos V and is generally concerned with spreading the faith rather than establishing its dominance, he has close ties to Pope John III in Yaroslav'l (both men were appointed to their posts at similar times and under similar conditions) and is a very powerful man in his own right. Emperor Felipe doesn't have the same amount of trust in Horatio as he does his other advisors, and considers him a vestige of his father's reign that must be dealt with out of respect for Carlos V, more than for Horatio himself. Horatio supports the inquisition and believes that all heretics work in concert to destroy the faith, his main goal is to spread Christianity among the colonies of Concordia.

Alfonso Guzman de Olivares is the son of Gaspar Guzman de Olivares (former Count/Duke of Toledo, and the enemy of Carlos V in the war of the Spanish succession), and the grandson of Juan Luis Guzman de Olivares (former foreign minister of El Cid). He is the adoptive son of Carlos V, as his mother Isabella II is Carlos V's sister, and became heir to the duchy of Toledo following the execution of his father. Despite his youth, where he experienced war and the death of his father, he is a very jovial and happy person. He is easily the most popular member of the Spanish nobility and is known to drink heavily and womanize any chance he gets. His knowlege of foreign policy is unquestionable, as he studied under Pedro Abarca de Bolea, and is a big fan of the Indian statesman Chanakya. He has a peaceful nature and is respectful of many countries that are considered "barbaric" in Spain. He believes that Spain must use its good fortune to better all of Terra, and is generally mistrusting of the clergy.

Emperor Felipe II is the brother of Carlos VI, and the son of Queen Maria de Bourbon and Emperor Carlos V. He, like Alfonso, studied at the University of Madrid as well as the University of Santiago. He has been groomed since his birth in Toledo to become the heir to Carlos V's throne. Not much is known about Felipe, who seems to have the same convictions as his father, however is younger and has experienced the ideas of the both the French and Indian enlightenments. He sees Spain as a force for peace in the world, and will make attempts to repair bridges that have broken with America and Germany. He wants to revitalize the church and make it a force for good instead of a force for power, and considers China an important state to establish fruitful relations with. He realizes that the empire is becoming large and has undertaken projects that will break Spain into three seperate Kingdoms ruled by one Emperor, in the coming years he will begin the democratization of Spain...

The Spanish Family Tree

This is an updated family tree for the Spanish nobility.

[OzzyKP]

OOC - Where did the name Concordia come from?

[NicodaMax]

Originally posted by OzzyKP
OOC - Where did the name Concordia come from?

To my fellow leaders of the nations of the world, who have asked me more than once:

As it should be (OOC - in our world at least), I have named the new continent with a latin (or latinized) feminine word, latin being an ancient and now almost lost language. It literally means with (con) heart (cordia), or harmony. Also, In Roman mythology, Concordia was the goddess of agreement, understanding, and marital harmony. All this in reference to the way in which we all peacefully cooperated to colonize the continent.

My best wishes to you all,

Sapa Inca of the Inca and The Northern Alliance

[OzzyKP]

TWELTH SESSION 1425 AD

India(Gandhi) - OzzyKP
America(Washington) - CyberShy
Germany(Bismark) - LzPrst
China(Qin Shi Huang) - Frank Johnson
Russia(Catherine) - KunojiLym
Spain(Isabella) - TheCapo
England(Elizabeth) - Deity
Mongolia(Genghis) - AI - and eliminated
Inca(Huayna Capac) - NicodaMax


Session 12 Number of Cities (since session 11):

Germany - 12 (+2)
Spain - 12 (+2)
England - 11 (+1)
China - 11 (+1)
Inca - 10 (+2)
Russia - 9 (+1)
India - 8 (+1)
America - 7 (+1)
Mongols - 0 (-1)


[/QUOTE]

[The Capo]

Madrid, Spain...

General Balboa walked hurriedly into the Emperor's chambers, where Emperor Felipe II was meeting with outgoing foreign minister Pedro Abarca de Bolea, incoming foreign minister Alfonso Guzman de Olivares, and his father the former Emperor Carlos V.

"Emperor."

"Yes?" Felipe and Carlos V said in unision.

"Sorry, old habits die hard." Carlos said with a smile, "General, what is it?"

"Apparently these leaflets were released throughout the eastern part of the Empire, especially in Toledo, Santo Rodrigo, and Santiago, here it speaks for itself." the General said as he handed Felipe II the leaflet...

To all true Spaniards!

We have seen the Emperor Carlos V abdicate his throne for his son Felipe to succeed him, for their grasp over Spain to continue throughout the ages. He claims to have made Spain better off, he claims that his lineage will maintain Spanish pride. How can this be so?

We ask you, true Spaniards, to consider the following;

1) India has elected, by the will of the PEOPLE, president Akbar, who was well qualified for the job, and I don't mean by birth, he rules India in the name of the people and not by God, not by blood.

2) Similarly Germany has changed their nation to a free one, ruled again by the consent of the governed.

3) Our nation, the so-called Holy Spanish Empire, is an amalgam of territories collected by the royal family, whose bloodline dates back to the tyrant Bainor de Castilla, in fact even the famous El Cid ruled by force of power, not by will of the people.

4) In many ways our nation is ruled by the church in Russia, our Guru Santo has been exiled because of his Buddhist beliefs, a religion that is purely Spanish.

5) We claim to have freedom of speech, and I applaud the monarchs for allowing the Madrid Monitor to continue nearly unabated, however we must maintain our anonymity or else we will certainly be arrested by Imperial authorities.

6) Spanish soldiers were forced to fight in a war that gained territory for the Incan and English empires, I assure you if the will of the people ruled Spain this would never have occured.

The time has come for these people to answer to Spain, the time has come to take power from those who abuse it, we have the means, we urge all true Spaniards to rise up against the Catholic church, and rise up against the false Emperor Felipe!

Viva Espana!

The Emperor looked up at his father "Who are these people?"

"I'm not sure, I've never seen anything like this before. We're well-liked by our subjects, we have done many things for them." Carlos said looking over the leaflet.

"Well, I can assemble some soldiers and we can get to the bottom of this." General Balboa said.

"No" said Alfonso "That wouldn't be a good idea, that's exactly the type of response they would like, any type of policing has to be done in secret, lest we drive the peasantry into their camp."

"Alfonso is right" Pedro Abarca de Bolea said "Perhaps a better way would be to make some concessions, allow for elected local officials, something that will make us look benevolent."

"We are benevolent!" Felipe replied.

"I know, but they clamor for democracy, if we simply kill them or arrest them the people will sympathize with them, their propoganda will prove correct, it is what they want to do, so we must do something."

"Listen, these people may target Felipe directly, we musn't allow this to occur, if they use violence we can't be caught off guard!" the General said.

"Hmm, well what should I do?" Felipe asked Carlos V.

"Honestly Felipe, I would continue as usual, if this becomes an issue then address it. For now discussing it in public only gives them legitemacy, and we aren't sure how extensive their organization is. In the meantime I would get spies, pay some people off, and give citizens in the target cities incentives." Carlos replied.

"That sounds good to me, General Balboa thank you, and for now we will keep this a secret, in the meantime send some men to ask around, perhaps we can infiltrate this group." the Emperor said.

"Yes your excellency."

[Frank Johnson]

Inside the Forbidden Garden Pavilion Pagoda of Good Fortune and Englightnment...

The Emperor was always seeking knowledge from foreign lands to expand the understanding of China because he knew the populace had a tendancy to be a bit inflexible at times. He has to use his strong will to bend the traditionalists in his society to accept the changes the modern world was brining to China. Lao Wai Mo was the Emperor's most trusted aid in matters outside of China. They sat in the Forbidden Garden Pavilion Pagoda of Good Fortune and Englightnment to discuss the world at large.

Emperor: "Tell me about this Civ Score thing the other nations are so concerned with. Why is it so important to them?"

Lao Wai Mo: "Most honored Emperor, it seems that other nations use 'Civ Score' as a measuring stick for the power and worthyness of nations."

Emperor: "Interesting, what does it say about us?"

Lao Wai Mo: "It looks upon us favorably Emperor. We are seen as equals to the other major powers of the World, but I have some concerns as to its validity?"

Emperor: "Oh?"

Lao Wai Mo: "Yes, in some aspects it seems irrational in its rankings, for example, the score may be blostered by anicent wonders, previlant in their time, but now nothing more than cultural land marks."

Emperor: "I see."

Lao Wai Mo: "In addition, a country might be consider very powerful merely by possessing knowledge useful in battle while failing to impliment this power on any scale."

Emperor: "That is troubling. So unreliable."

Lao Wai Mo: "Yes, also a civiliation with much land is rewarded heavily, even if that land lays barren and undeveloped."

Emperor: "I see, we cannot rely on this 'Civ Score', what do you suggest?"

Lao Wai Mo: "Divisions my lord. Ships, fighting men, and technology, this is what makes a nation powerful."

Emperor: "It is as I thought. And for this we have no reliable measure. Only fears and rumor."

Lao Wai Mo: "Unfortuently it is as you say. However it is well known at many of the nations whom we stand as equals with possess large standing armies, specificly for offensive purposes."

Emperor: "Only offensive?"

Lao Wai Mo: "Yes my Lord, from what information we have, we consider the garrisions of the major powers to be quite weak, but their offensive armies are powerful, and ment to ravage a country so that invading their homeland is impossible."

Emperor: "A risky proposal. China's first priority was its own self defense."

Lao Wai Mo: "Indeed, our garrisions are envyable, even in the limited time of your rule thus far."

Emperor: "Thank you for your contributions. China thanks you. Its was a good conversation."

Lao Wai Mo: "My Lord."

[The Capo]

The Madrid Monitor
June 18th, 1424 a.d.
1/30 Gold

"Hey brother could you spare some tech?"

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TOP STORY
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Multi-State Coalition Defeat Genghis Khan!
Samarkand, Mongolia - A strange coalition of nations came together to finally defeat the centuries-old Khanate of Mongolia. The hostilities began when Indian officials under newly elected President Akbar claimed that Mongolian diplomats had personally insulted India, and India would seek revenge. "Of course our state has maintained a status of no-contact with the Mongolians" said Spanish Foreign Minister Alfonso Guzman de Olivares "Something that could have prevented this senseless bloodshed from happening." However many agree that this event never took place, and India was searching for their own foreign territory in the wake of an age of colonization; "I believe it was quite apparent that this entire chain of events was a fabrication" retired General Eduardo Chavez points out, "There has been no evidence of any type of Indian-Mongolian foreign policy, and India has yet to provide any evidence of this supposed insult." The Emperor however is unconvinced; "Mongolia has been a thorn in the civilized world's side since its inception, I can now admit that we entertained plans to invade and conquer Samarkand on numerous occasions." Following the initial Indian declaration Russia, the Incan Empire, and England (Mongolia's only neighbor) declared war and fell upon the ancient capital. Germany and America, who initially protested the war, soon thereafter joined it themselves declaring war against Mongolia as well. "The English reported a buildup of Mongolian seige equipment such as Catapults, while Spain felt that a war of this magnitude may have been unwise, citing that the English and Inca could have handled it themselves." Foreign Minister Olivares stated "Mongolia attempted to gain Spanish support, but clearly that was impossible." The coalition was victorious over the Mongols in 1417, India was rewarded by England and the Inca by gaining territory in Concordia.

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DOMESTIC REPORT
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Imperial Palace of Versailles Built in Toledo!
Toledo - The grand palace of Versailles, which was comissioned by former Emperor Carlos V and finished by Emperor Felipe II, was finished in 1360 and is intended to serve as a center of government for the duchy of Toledo, an area comprised of all eastern territories of the Spanish Empire. Duke Alfonso Guzman de Olivares serves as the Duke of Toledo and will use the palace as his normal home and for administration of the duchy. The palace is large enough for this and to serve as a temporary home of Emperor Felipe II when he makes visits to the area. "Our Empire is large and unweildy" said the Emperor "Versailles helps bring together the western Empire and the eastern Empire into one unified Empire." This is the first step in a process described by the Emperor as 'federalization' where he intends on focusing the responsibilities of local management on local officials for a more streamlined government.

Free Market Policies Implemented in Spain!
Madrid - Spanish Emperor Felipe II has put into effect Chinese-style free market policies intended to help the Spanish economy and allow for more freedom in the lives of average Spanish citizens. "The policies we saw in China were amazing, and we realized we had to stay ahead of the curve in terms of freedoms and commerce" said Foreign Minister Alfonso Guzman de Olivares "The Chinese model was perfect." Some critics argue that free markets will eventually hinder poorer citizens, keeping the rich Spaniards even richer "This policy removes many tithing taxes from the church" Archbishop Horatio II said "Many of these taxes go directly toward charity for the poor." Others cite the recent upswing in anti-Imperial sentiments, saying that secret guilds have developed with the intent of overthrowing the Spanish monarchy. "We received a few leaflets calling for the overthrow of the Imperial government" said General Carlos VI de Castilla y Aragon, brother of Emperor Felipe II "Many of these are simply leaflets, but a few of them are cause for concern." The new system was put into place to combat the newly developing Imperial deficit.

The Hermitage Finished in Seville!
Seville - The Grand Imperial Art Museum, also known as "the Hermitage" has been finished in Seville, exciting art enthusiasts around Terra. "It is a very long trip" said one German tourist "But you can come here to see the great works of art by many artists, Indian, Russian, Spanish, Chinese, I can go on, even [German artist] Thepsis has works here!" The Hermitage was begun early in the reign of Felipe II as a testiment to his father Carlos V, he was an avid art fan and had many portraits made of himself, which all now reside in the official Imperial art museum. "I felt that my father loved art, and in his retirement should see the great works of the world collected in one place." The Emperor even announced the comission of yet another portrait of Carlos V which will be unveiled at a special celebratory gala at the Hermitage.

Spanish Citizens Clamor in Praise of Felipe II!
Madrid - Despite many contentions from the nobility that Carlos V choice of successor, Emperor Felipe II, may have been a bad decision citizens all over Spain have taken to the streets in praise of their young Emperor. The cities of Madrid, Seville, Barcelona, Toledo, and Santiago have all celebrated "We love the Monarch day," a day of feasting, music, and homage to the Emperor Felipe II. "Felipe cemented Spanish holdings in Concordia, he established free-markets, he built the Hermitage, he has done so much so early in his reign history would be hard-pressed to look down on him" said former Foreign Minister Pedro Abarca de Bolea, who now resides in Barcelona and did take part in the festivities there. Felipe II made an official speech in Madrid at one of the celebrations, thanking his subjects for their support but promising that there is more work to be done and he would not stop until he has done everything within his power for Spain.

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FOREIGN REPORT
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Indian Troops Occupy Schwabing!
Schwabing, Germany/India? - Indian troops have occupied the town of Schwabing, which is a suburb of the German city of Munich. For years sailors in the Vishnu bay had been victim of horrible storms, which left their ships stranded on German soil, particularly in the areas of Schwabing and Furstenfeldbruck, which are both suburbs of Munich. These Indians played a role in creating a combination of Indian and German cultures that were favorable to India; according to Indian officials this eventually lead to the rejection of German rule by the people of Schwabing in favor of a new, and democratic, Indian rule. "We've long known that the north shore has had affinity for India, now that they have formally rejected German rule, we welcomed them into India proper with open arms" said Indian Colonel Hardeep Chowdhary, who is in charge of the occupation. The Monitor was unable to get a response from German officials, but no move has been made to regain the township.

Economic Reforms Bolster Chinese Economy!
Beijing, China - Since the rise of Emperor Jian Fu Lin and the Council of the 108 Stars, the Chinese Empire has become one of the richest and most influential states in Terra. "The Chinese became so rich that they offered to purchase garrisons from all over Terra" said Foreign Minister Alfonso Guzman de Olivares "The trend is quite troubling, but our relations with China are good as of now, and we hope they stay this way. In an official statement by the Chinese government, they described their new military aspirations;

In order to establish a military worthy of defending the large holdings of China, as well as protect its isolated colony in the New World, Jian Fu Lin made an invitation to hire the services of warriors throughout the world. The invitation of the Chinese was quite generous, offering to retrain and equip soldiers at no cost to themselves while compensating their homecountries for their services, and to station them in peaceful garrisions throughout the empire. The windfall of profits from China's economic emergance had left the government with a surplus of gold, but their production capabilities were still streached thin. China left the offer open, but realized it may soon have to turn to its own innovation and toil to secure its status in the coming era. Experts said that the infastructure for China's economy would soon be complete in many regions, allowing for China to continue transforming its military into a modern force to keep up with the likes of India, Russia, and England.

Revolution Erupts in Germany!
Berlin, Germany - Following the reign of Hochraat Der Germania, and his failure to keep the Munich suburb of Schwabing under German rule, the citizens of greater Germany rebelled and established a new government predicated on democratic elections. This continues the recent enlightenment which sees origins in French-pacifism, French-nationalism, Chinese free-market economics, and the Indian renaissance/enlightenment. "Germany is a heterogeneous (sp?) society that has many distinct social groups" said General Balboa, who commanded a Spanish expeditionary force to the region "They have Catholic christians, Protestant christians, Jews, Indians, French, and of course Germans living in one nation under one rule of law, I am not surprised that things came to this." Word from German officials is hard to reach at this point, many argue that the German revolution is not quite over and it will be difficult to predict who will come out on top. "Sometimes governments must be overthrown, it has happened in Spain, in India, and in the Incan Empire, and now it is Germany's turn" said Emperor Felipe II "I hope the German people understand that Spain is here for them, and we will greet their new leadership with open arms of friendship."

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EDITORIAL
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News from Concordia!
by Cristobal Colon

Hello Spain! I am Cristobal Colon, the governor of New Spain and your teacher today with some news from Concordia, the New World! I know how hard it is to get news about the goings-ons here in Concordia, but I'll try and hit on a few of the major points that have occured recently... I am sure you all know about the Mongolian War back in the old country, well politics does make for strange bedfellows as India has recieved a new world settlement for their efforts on behalf of England and the Inca... the city of New Boston has finally been built, and English leader Captain Manning deserves a pat on the back, I have worked with this man before in the attack on Sarmatia and he's top notch, this is the ultimate culmination of the London Peace Accords... Spain has a lot to be proud of, did you know our armies have been exploring Northern Concordia and have defeated four barbarian armies?... the Chinese have finally settled out some colonies on Concordia's southern peninsula, I wonder what Jian Fu Lin will name it?... finally we have built two new settlements in New Spain, Valencia and Zaragosa, as well as bringing Christianity to San Pedro and Valencia watch out Zaragosa you're next!... the Incan Cavalry seving under General DeMores and General Carlos VI has finally been returned to the Incan colony of Numidia... Spanish Ships under the command of Admiral Hidalgo are protecting the Russian Island Colony to make sure nothing goes badly there, strange, I thought Russia cancelled our Defensive Pact right before the Mongolian War... it seems that I have come full circle, so that's pretty much what I know about Concordia lately, I'll try and keep the Monitor posted so they can bring news back to the old country, in the meantime please send some women!

[deity]

Sir Alfred was trying to get a grip of himself.

With Manning still far away Alfred's orders were to take the Mongol capital before the Russians and Indians took it for themselves.

In this he failed. Despite urgings from the Sapa and Germany to be hasty Alfred arrived at Karakorum just as the Sapa took hold of the city. This was after valiant fighting by the powerfull Indian army who killed many of the fearsome Mongols - God rest their souls.

As did God rest the soul of poor Alfred.

He lay in a forest ditch South of Karakorum with a wound in his chest, gasping his last words.

"It was not... the... it was... ughhh..."

Most did not hear his dying words but one did. One person knew Alfred's last words. Everyone said it was a Mongol weapon that pierced his heart but no one could find the weapon or the bullet. Troops from many nations were in the area and much confusion reigned, particularly in the English camp - frantic to get to Karakorum first.

The Inca quickly handed control over to the English with the stooge Harold, now a very old man, taking charge in Alfred's absence.

Standing on the steps of the city square Harold thanked all those who'd helped - The Indians, the Russians, The Germans even.

But mostly he thanked the Inca and the Indians for their military prowess and strategy - three mighty nations sharing a common religion

"To my dear Akbar I offer you the Concordian city of Circassian as tribute for your mighty efforts. You will find this city comparable in value and size to Karakorum. The Indians have sacrificed much in honouring Manning's London Peace Accord. And possibly to the disadvantage of India. I think it fitting that India receives a fine Concordian city. I salute you!"

"And to the Sapa, what can I say. The Northern Alliance has lasted time immemorial. We share the riches of Concordia and continue to wage world peace together by generously sharing the resources and lands of Concordia."

"I see that some Russian troops have remained here to listen to my words. Manning wants me to thank you and to apologise for the actions of Sir Alfred. Poor Sir Alfred, who met his death in the forests south of here..."

Major gasps from the thousands in the crowd...

"... He died valiantly and honestly. A brave veteran of the Novgorad capaign eons ago."

"Manning advises that his Russian friends are welcome in Concordia and is well pleased that they have settled on the island East of Concordia. There is more news from Concordia but that must wait for a later time! I bid you all a great day!!"

And with that, the ultimate moment of Harold's life had peaked and was not seen in public life at all after today.

[deity]

Statistics, lies and statistics!

Manning was now in Illinois, the southern capital of English Concordia. He had disembarked from the galleon and staggered ashore - what a trip!

He so loved fighting with the Spanish again.

But now, having negotiated the most southerly tip of Concordia away to the Chinese he was studying the latest intelligence from China and Lao Wai Mo.

A new term "civ score" was now far flung.

He pored over the details carefully. What did it mean?

What was Jian Lu Lin up to?

What was he saying?

At the moment the various pieces of intelligence suggested this:

* China was going to attack it's way into Concordia if they didn't get something

* China was militarising - firstly defensively then offensively

* China was building weralth to upgrade it's armies

* China was concentrating on military technologies

* China was considering a less well defended nation as its prey

* China was less of a danger in Concordia

* China was mostly a danger to her neighbours

* China was friendly to the English and slightly generous in trade relations

Manning's strategic mind was in over drive.

Were there any other aspects to be considered.

Was England running poorly in "civ score" as a result of poor culture?

Lao Wai Mo was making sense to Manning.

"I seek a dialog with Lao Wai Mo" he utterred.

Manning was feeling very strong, very up, very wary - the solidity of the Northern Alliance and Germany was England's great strength and that wasn't in the "civ score"

The new alliance needed a name: he simply coined the term...

"NSEW Alliance" and awaited a reply from Sapa and Hochraat.

The New Strategic East West Alliance, although some may call it the North South East West Alliance.

America was not part of it but a state that was supported by NSEW.

Manning and Hochraat had both supported terchnology gifts to the poor Americans. In return Manning required a strategic deal with America to be discussed in private.

[Robert]

"The people are talking Indian, not American!, mylord!"
A servant of the king of America, Thomas Jefferson, reported his latest observations. "Not far from the city of Washington the farmers and the people living in the villages outside the city speak Indian. Some of them already concider themselves to be Indian. It's spreading like a disease!"

"Why?" The King asked.
"The people aren't happy with our governament sir. We're a backwards nation with little territory. The people blame you and all the former kings of America."

"It's true that we're backwards. But what can be done about that? We try to research all new technologies but we just aren't good enough to be the first to reach breakthrough new paths."

"Shall I send word to forbid the people to speak in any other tongue then the american tongue? And to stop spreading lies about you, mylord?"

"No, let them talk freely. It's not the people who should adapt, we should. We must find new ways to bring our nation back and to let the glory of America rule again."

"Let them speek freely? No good can come from that!"

"Maybe not, but I think we should trust our people, let them debate among themselves and express them in whatever way. No matter if it's positive or negative towards me. We need creative people to give our empire a boost. We should give them responsibilities."

"And what do we answer to England?"

"Let me think, let me think. Things are not easy...."

[KunojiLym]

The reign of Alexei I, compared to that of his father, was relatively uneventful. Under him, the ferocity of the Inquisition lessened a great deal; however, it was never done away with completedly. As more and more nations embraced the freedom of worship as the official doctrine, the Holy See became even more uneasy. The Tsar himself was torn between his liberal sympathies for the events in the south and his passionate faith in Catholicism. The end result was that he did nothing. Indeed, the Tsar was to become known as one of the most reculsive rulers that Russia had known.

One of the few notable events during Alexei's reign was the completion of the Spiral Minaret, a project started by Feodar I. Even that passed without much official notice. Another was the establishment, with the aid of the Incan Empire, of Moscow Nminsky (New Moscow), on an island off the coast of Concordia, per the agreement that Peter the Great had made just before his passing.

Alexei died from an ailment of the lungs, leaving no heir save for his 16-year old daughter. Catherine was renowned for her beauty, and rumored to be quite a flirt. Over the objections of the Holy See, she was crowned Empress of the Holy Russian Empire. Unrest within the Empire grew, and the young ruler seemed to have her work cut out for her.

[OzzyKP]

TO: Captain Manning, of England
FROM: President Akbar
SUBJECT: Concordia


It is my hope the noble English troops are settling in comfortably to your new city of Karakorum. It truly is a glorious city, rich with natural beauty and resources. Likewise I hear reports of the successes our new colony of Rajarajaton.

I am writing to make a humble request regarding Concordia. As you know, Rajarajaton is deep within the interior of the continent. Cut off from trade and resupply from the mainland of India. While it is a wonderous city, I am afraid its true potential will dry up without an effective Indian port from which to ship its goods.

It is for this reason India requests the rights to land directly west of Rajarajaton for the purposes of building a port city. We have no interest in further New World land beyond these two spots, and simply desire a port city for New India.

In exchange, New India will gladly serve as the barrier between the newly tamed lands south of us and the still dangerous land of the natives to the north.

Thank you for your time and consideration, a map of our proposal has been enclosed.

- President Jalaluddin Confucious Akbar

[The Capo]

Seville...

Carlos V was entirely proud of his son Felipe's accomplishments. He had also seen the military prowess of his son Carlos VI, and the diplomatic abilities of his adopted son Alfonso. Felipe had ruled over the greatest period of Spanish peace in history, and managed to cement Spanish positions in Concordia, creating a much larger and more dynamic empire than ever before. Now was the time for Felipe to shine, at the unveiling of the portrait of Carlos V, unfortunately for Carlos V he would never see the painting...

"Carlos, Carlos!" his wife Maria de Bourbon called as she searched through their estate, "We're going to be late for the art show. Where in the devil could he be Carla?" she asked the wife of her son, Carlos VI.

"I'm sure he's resting, he's been quite ill lately." Carla replied as the two approached his dressing chamber. The two imperial guards hastily opened the door as the queen and the princess entered the room.

"Carlos." his wife said again smiling as she approached his bed "You have to get up, it is ti-" she took a step back and held her hand over her mouth.

"Oh my lord! GUARDS, GUARDS!" Carla screamed...


Hours Later at the Hermitage...

Word had spread quickly throughout Seville of the former Emperor's demise, the celebratory gala at the Hermitage was quickly morphed into an ad hoc funeral; with the entire Spanish nobility (well mostly) present. Alfonso Guzman de Olivares spent most of his time greeting guests, while the true sons of Carlos stayed in a special Imperial chamber within the Hermitage...

"Well, he was quite sick Felipe, it was only a matter of time." Carlos VI said to his brother.

"Yes, I know, but it is a sad time none the less, we will have Alfonso draft a letter to be sent to the foreign ministries of every nation. We'll have to send word out to Concordia, to Governor Colon." the Emperor replied.

"I'm not sure if that is a wise decision at this juncture Felipe, we have yet to establish full control over the region and any news of father's fall may send shockwaves throughout the Sarmatian community, many there still consider Carlos V to be Emperor." Carlos VI said.

"Hmm, very well, we'll let news travel naturally." Felipe said, he was visibly shaken by the loss of his father.

"Listen, I know it seems like he was behind a lot of your success." Carlos began.

"Carlos, what are you implying?"

"Hear me out Felipe, I understand he helped us out a lot, and that it seems like a hefty load to bear without his council, but the Empire is in good hands and Spain is in a good position right now, we musn't let this tragic loss to effect our judgements."

"Believe me, General, my mind is clear right now. I can rule the Empire properly, I understand things in the world are on a tentative peace, but peace none-the-less prevails Carlos. I understand there are enemies on the horizon, and we must make sure they stay there." Felipe replied.

"Like the Chinese Felipe?" Carlos asked.

"The Chinese? What are you talking about, I am referring to the rebels, that leaflet, we can't allow our control to diminish, especially not now, not during these times." Felipe said "Why did you mention the Chinese?"

"Well, it is quite obvious they are building up their military, and for centuries they have held Spain in a negative light, I am not saying they are an enemy Felipe, I am saying they may become one, and we must be prepared if that is the case."

"I'm not interested in this right now Carlos, can't we let father rest properly without talking about more war, and more death?" Felipe asked.

"Certainly Emperor, I will tell Alfonso to draft the letter" he said, offering a slight bow.

"Excellent." the Emperor replied.