History of the World XI - 11 o'clock, one hour before doomsday! [Story Thread]

[deity]

The main parliamentary council continued various deliberations.

The concept of free religion had taken a strong hold in Portugal as time faded the Islamic aspirations. The central religion was still Islam but Christianity and Islam was equally spread across the nation in every city.

"A free religion country will result in a happier and more relaxed populace."

"Not to mention the efficiencies of inventiveness."

"Our current Pacifist and democratic government should move towards free religion at the earliest opportunity."

"But the Dutch have become Communists! And are out-producing the entire world."

"The Portuguese are neither front runners in GDP or Production BUT we are, we believe by current intelligence, running second in BOTH these areas. We have the best balanced economy in the world."

"If you do say so yourself! You don't need to suck up now, your boss is in the secret chamber!"

Riotous cries of laughter.

"In any event it is minuted"

"However, we must produce our last remaining great people before converting to free religion."

"What an old fashioned notion."

[deity]

Not much leaked from the central committee room.

Various plans were discussed.

"The Dutch don't seem to be militarising as much as I thought."

"But their base capital is entirely geared to it and they are researching military techs like Artillery."

"I'm sure that is entirely a defensive position. They are probably more paranoid than me!" The select few who were at the meeting had a good laugh at Joao's expense and appreciated his self-awareness and humour. He is a very popular leader.

"Communism is an extreme decision by them and totally out of tune with the Pentagon!"

"Don't laugh, we are a wonder-less nation!!"

"Our people are our wonders "

"And our people wonder about us!!"

"I wonder about us!"

----

"OK then. We are agreed then?"

"Yes, it is an innocuous yet clever approach that should not greatly upset any nation."

"Do we need a more organised religion approach to increase production?"

"No, I just received word that this has been debated in the main chamber to adopt free religion at the earliest opportunity. Besides our factories and Oil should come on stream soon."

"Im very pleased about that" said Joao - who after all was from a Christian background with strong English ties where Christianity was founded.

[The_Aussie_Lurker]

An era ends....

The reign of President Seke had come to an end. The Senate pleaded with him to stay, as did Congress, but he refused to budge. "No my people," he said gravely "I set up this system very carefully to avoid a single president staying longer than he or she was wanted. What kind of message would it send if I broke the rules of my OWN system?"
With that, President Seke left office & retired to his estate, but now the nation was in need of a new leader. Many candidates-both congress-people & senators-stood up to take up the mantle of president.
Each had their own set of policies, but many of them were based on an ultra-nationalist or religious extremist view of Ethiopia, a view which was becoming increasingly unattractive to the population. Two candidates stood out above all others, though. Meles Zenawi & Negasso Gidada both offered a strong vision of the future for Ethiopia. Increased trade & better relations with foreign nations, as well as improved productivity via full-scale industrialisation, was offered by both candidates. It was Zenawi, however, who offered the clincher: greater freedom for people to speak their minds, to practice their religion & to put their opinions in person or in print-even if that opinion was critical of the government of the day. Zenawi also offered a departure away from nationalist sentiments & towards a more Internationalist system of government.
The vote was emphatic, a run-off election was not even required-with Zenawi picking up 65% of the popular vote.
The new president was as good as his word. Wasting no time he sat down with the new Congress to start drawing up a plan for the funding of a full-scale industrialisation of Ethiopia, & the thinking of Ethiopian cities, towns & outlying infrastructure via a high-tech, high-speed rail network. In this effort he hoped to gain aid from the private sector which done so well under his predecessor. He also started drafting a Bill of Rights for Ethiopia-his grand document which, he hoped, would help him be remembered in the annals of history, alongside Seke, Darambulla, Yaquob & Mobassa....

[Robert]

Saladin's secret plans

Saladin spoke to a group of about 5000 muslim fundamentalists.
"Followers of Allah, we have been betrayed!", he started.
"First by Dan Quale, who promised us peace if we would give up Islam. But we didn't want either peace or freedom of religion! We had to give up what was most precious to us for something we didn't want!

Then Dan was killed and one of us took charge.
Ali, our leader, took the power of the Americas, gave back to America what belonged to us. Hunted the Dutch deep into their own territory and destroyed their colonies. We thought that Ali was the new prophet of God, but the power corrupted him. His heart was weakened by the tongues of international diplomacy. He gave in and made peace with the evil Dutch.

He gave us freedom of religion and focussed on our economy. Now we are rich. We have money and knowledge, but we lack the support of Allah.

Without Allah we are poor and dumb, even if we are rich and smart.

We have been betrayed! First by Dan Quale, then by Ali. Ali must die! We must regain the trone of Islam."

The young Islamists screamed in awe of their leader.
"We will kill Ali, we will reestablish Islam! We will Serve Allah! Death to the infidels" the men yelled!

Suddenly the doors opened, soldiers entered the room. "Ruuuuun! Run for your lifes!" Saladin screamed. Then a bullet ended the life of Saladin. The many youngsters left the room from all kinds of exits, spreading over the streets of Jefferson. Many were killed, most survived.

"sheep without a leader", Saladin whispered. "Oh, if only Martin would return and gather them all, to lead them to victory!". Then he died.

[Toni]

The last couple of years have been quite quiet sir.

Well I’m glad this has allowed us to focus on interior matters, we were able to improve our cities the city of Sofia is growing ever so powerful and prosperous a real example of our industrial might. We are currently pouring lots of money into our coastal cities as well. Also a successful source of coal has been secured – coal’s world supplies are very low so demand is at its pick. We have noticed other nations as the Americans and Portuguese lack coal – well this is not important to us let them deal with their own problems. Well I share this with you because they may try to seek coal from the outside – let them – we have our own goals here. Also our scientists have discovered rich sources of uranium close to the capital, a metal which may have great implications in the future. It is a very heavy a dense metal which can be used as an abundant source of concentrated energy – thus securing for the Dutch nation an energy alternative in the coming years.

Sofia also has started working on its next great project – which will be completed shortly Sir! Well this is excellent news. On the diplomatic front – Our convoy is on their way back from the Inca nation. Good! And last what happened to that deal we had with the Americans – well we have decided to withdraw from the talks. Nothing good would have come out of it – what we had to offer would have aided that nation too much – which may only hurt the Dutch in the long run.

I’m pleased

[arvcran]

It is said that what went on in the secret councel was well guarded - this was apparently due to allowing an international news correspondant access to the meetings. How these two concepts couple is quite perplexing to be sure.

Suffice to say two substancial documents of recommendation were produced for international evaluation. Namely: Nations for the protection of Nations. This document proposes a strategy to counter the new threats to stability amongst world Nations by establishing a united conglomerate of Nations having and not having strategic resources. The document masterfuly describes inevitable strugles based on the potential of non willing Nations to share resources, and the long term advantages of controlling the use of these resources on the 'not so open' market.
The document does get into the prospects of trade sanctions for penalties of non conformity but falls short of providing a detailed plan for forceful peaceful resolutions to disputed resource short commings.

The second document titled The Wisdom of Technology trading and the changing world, is less practical and less quantitative but is a brilliant work of foresight in philosophical theory, logical thinking, and deliberation on avoiding human self-destruction. Surely this was not an Incan product? The preface to the document made reference to a little work of ancient incan heritage entitled: fishing in Ameri-waters or lost & found by mermaids

The international papers and translators were laughing at the fact that it only made sense that the only nation in the world to have opened it's borders to all other nations would be able to keep any secrets, but mostly that the this little master peice of work tabled the very benefit that the best secret was the secret that everyone knew but practiced the act of secracy. It was the notion that was not actually written that left the work to be named a master piece. The theme that knowing and ability was not a complete means of being better and safer, for having the experince of the knowledge was far more effective at securing self preservation. This work is the primary inspirational document for Incan policy makers. The document is given as a gift to the nations contained in the package called 'A request of Nations to keep their "state of the art" technological secrets'. The package contains a song for children Row, row, row your boat gently down the stream claiming to be a song inspired by the fishing in Ameri-waters work, but , sadly it is potentially countering the obvious rational decision process by fooling others into beleiving it to be political propoganda designed to strengthen the haves vs the have nots.

[deity]

Pontius, "As I was saying ... Uranium has properties and potential application that quite frankly ..."

---

"...document proposes a strategy to counter the new threats to stability amongst world Nations by establishing a united conglomerate of Nations having and not having strategic resources..."
---

Joao became aware that Coal and Oil were NOT the only strategic resources in the world.

"Quick, despatch TRH Finance Minister to Incaland immediately! Negotiate a deal to procure knowledge of the existence of this Uranium mineral, whether it exists in Portugal and if not what excess resources the Inca may have available for trade."

"Please, at once!"

[Beta]

Army Camp Rome - West of the Capitol

General Titus - Commander of Army Group Rome: Brothers - have you seen the results?

General Vilnius - Commander of Army Group West: I have. What do we do now?

General Alerium - Commander of Army Group East (also known as the Island Army): And where does Marshal Sulla stand on this? Will he go along with the vote? He was very close to the Dutch.

Titus: As were the navy. I hear a number of the Rear-Admirals were assigned to off-shore patrol while the vote was taking place.

Alerium: I had heard that the navy was pushing for isolation - as it would increase their stature with the citizenry.

Vilnius: What a royal screw up? Did the Senators even know what they are voting for? And which way was the high and almighty Julian leaning?

Titus: A bit quieter my friend. The walls have ears, and the country is restless. Any hint that the army does not support the senate, or the results of the vote could lead to chaos.

Vilnius: And that may not be a bad thing, my friend. It would create opportunities, and possibly a chance for us to push Sulla aside, and let the army take its proper status in Roman affairs.

Titus: You are talking mutiny and revolution dear colleague. I have known you since the Acadamy. You have always been loyal to the Army and to Rome. Do you know what you are suggesting?

Vilnius: My loyalty is to Rome, and if need be, my loyalty to the army can be used to make sure Rome walks the right path.

Alerium: And what makes you think you know what the right path is? You have been sitting on the Incan frontier for the last decade. You hade little to do with the American conflict. Most of your troops have never set foot on a galleon. I just don't know Vilnius. I am not sure you fully appreciate the consequences here.

Titus: Shhhhh..... quiet. The Marshall has arrived. Let's see what he says.

Vilnius: Indeed. But I still say Rome's future is clouded.

Alerium: (laughing) You have the gift for understatement my friend.

At this point, Marshall Sulla enters the room .....

[deity]

The Portuguese Secretary of State returned from Holland.

It was a quiet visit with no fanfare. Discussions were brief and mildly revealing.

Joao was still starring poker faced at the latest intelligence from Rome.

"Well, so you don't think the Dutch have military designs against us? Or more specifcally, if the Russians caused us grief would Holland join them in battle?"

"PM Joao, I think, although very little was said, the Dutch emphasised that a new cabinet was much more open and peaceful than previous Dutch regimes. Even though are Communistic, as yet their military power is not rising."

"So, this is comforting, yes?"

"From what I could glean between the lines the new Dutch Communist Government is focussed on its' people and magnificent city building programs. They do not seek war but, I may be wrong here, I suspect they might use the military forces to resolve international issues."

"Would this apply to any Romanic threat?"

"I could honestly not speculate about that. BUt in the case iof the Russians I think they probably would exert some influence, one way or the other, in avoiding war on our soutern border. It is a tinder box they do not want kindled I'd say.."

"And, I ask you this, you have closer friendships in America than I do with my English heritage, but of course our American Alliance is rock solid and comes before all other international agreements - so to come to my question, do you think the Americans will understand this flirtatious liason with Holland?"

"I'm sure of it PM Joao. Russia is seen as the only real threat. The tensions with the Dutch are historical of course but the jihad is a distant memory now. And we are yet to receive the exact nature of war reparations from that time."

"Well, I agree. We must keep the Americans informed of our international dealings."

"Yes, total defensive support of America is a high priority of the alliance. In this case it is us who are the most threatened nation on Terra with, my latest intelligence assures me, a huge Russian force deployed in an unfriendly manner NOT in city defence mode and right on our border."

[deity]

"And what of this new technology the Dutch have nearly developed - Artillery I think?"

"It is a very powerfull concept, putting siege weaponry at the cutting edge."

"Better than Cannons?"

"Much better!"

"And the Russians have many cannons."

"I would like to think it unlikely for the Dutch to assist the Russians in this regard, given what we talked about. Such a gesture would increase good will with the Dutch immensely."

"And the Dutch need good will."

"In a sense Portuguese foreign affairs is being driven by the Russians. I don't like this tension."

"Let's also hope that relations with the Inca and hopefully Rome can flourish as a good consequence of our current position."

[Beta]

The Port Of Rome

Rear-Admiral Vivacium: ( holding a letter in his hands...) It would seem that General Titus and his colleagues would like to meet with us water-rats.

Rear-Admiral Tracus: (laughs) They need our help again. He he he.

Vivacium: Yes, would appear so. From what I understand, they are none too happy with the vote.

Tracus: Well, are you?

Vivacium: You know how I voted. I would have preferred us to seek a more independent policy, but I am first a foremost a Roman, and secondly an Admiral - I will do what my country and commander ask of me.

Tracus: ( chuckling ) Oh yes - me too. But is making friends with this Jaoy, Jaooo, Joao - whatever his damn name is - is that asking too much of Rome, and of us? The Portuguese and the Americans were 'evil' not too many years ago. What has changed?

Vivacium: Hmmm. Maybe we should meet with the Generals. See what they have to say. Who else is around. Coracia is here from the island. Get him and lets head out to the army camp shall we.

[Beta]

The Palace in Rome - the Council Meeting

Julian - Chief Senator Elect : Are you ready Gaius?

Gaius: Chief Aide and Advisor: Yes sir. This should be interesting.

Julian nods to the guard at the door, and he and Gaius enter the Council Chambers, and take their seats.

Julian: Greetings fellow Romans! Strength and Honour!

Salutations and greetings back...

Julian: Well my friends. It is indeed momentous times we live in. The vote is done. Democracy rules. Rome has spoken.

Julian looks around the room. Senators and Senior Public officials nod back at him. Marshall Sulla and Admiral Petronius remain non-committal.

Julian: Caecelius, are your people ready to act.

Caecelius - Head of Foreign Affairs: Yes Chief Senator Elect. All is set.

Julian: Crassius?

Crassius - Head of Science and Technology: Yes, sir. I will follow the Foreign Affairs lead, but I know our needs.

Julian: Excellent. And that brings us to the army and navy. Well Gentlemen? We have all heard the rumours of unrest in the ranks, to say nothing of the officer corps. My own - um - sources indicate that we may have major issues - if not outright resistance.

Marshall Sulla: Well sir. You know that I for one am not pleased with the vote. But I do Rome's bidding. I, nor none of my officers, are mightier than Rome. They are part of it. Petronius and I are of one mind in this ...

Admiral Petronius nods in agreement ...

.... and our plans are set, and contingencies arranged.

Julian: Good. However, we have excellent officers and we cannot afford a major purge at this time. It could throw the nation back into chaos as recently experienced. We need the support - the real support of the army and navy ...

Sulla: Understood and no fears sir. We may be military men, but don't underestimate our talents of diplomacy, persuasion and leadership.

And with the council's leave, we will depart immediately. Time is off the essence, and a prime opportunity awaits.

Julian: God speed, gentlemen. For Rome!

Marshall Sulla and Admiral Petronius exit the room quickly.

[deity]

[ OOC It really sucks that Mr L doesn't post. I think this should effect a players eligibility for the next game. ]

[Beta]

The Palace in Rome

Originally posted by deity
To ToxoXI of Rome,

cc Martin van Buren of America

The Islamic alliance is now one of peace with policies of peaceful co-existence of religions sprouting forth.

As the new leader of Portugal I'd like to suggest a more robust relationship with Rome - one of trans-Romanic Ocean trading, tourism and migration.

You and you entourage are cordially invited to Lisbon to meet with me and discuss these matters if you so wish.

I believe we can embark upon some technology trading and in cooperation with the Americans form a trading pact.

It is possible that both America and the Portuguse have temporarily lost contact with up to three surrounding nations - Germany, England and Russia.

With this in mind I implore you to consider our requests.

I need confirmation but I suspect we may have some technologies on offer that you may need and we are prepared to offer them as a gift to start a mutual cooperation program.

Yours truly,

'Joao the Pom'

Caecelius: The letter you requested sir.

Julian: Thank you Caecelius. Give me a moment to read it.

To Joao the Pom

Dear Sir,

I apologize for the length of time it has take to respond to your letter and request for closer ties with Rome. Your proposal required considerable discussion, given its ramifications. I am pleased to say that Rome welcomes your offer of a Trans-Romanic trading and cultural block, with mutual technological co-operation. To that end, this response is being carried by Caecelius, my most senior and trusted adminstrator of Foreign Affairs. He has my full authorization to begin the negotiations.

I will make the approriate travel arrangments to travel to Portugal to finalize the agreements reached.

We look forward to a relationship of mtutal respect and prosperity.

With sincerest regards , Cheif Senator Elect Julius of Rome.

Julian: It is perfect. You leave today for Portugal.

Julian reaches for his quill to sign the letter.

[Beta]

The Palace in Rome

Reinius - Director of Foreign Policy: Sir, the letter to the Incans, as requested.

Julian: Ah, Renius, thank you for this. I trust Caecelius is on his way?

Reinius: Yes sir. Left on the morning tide.

Julian: Good. Let me read.

My Dear Pontus Pakchu,

I trust this letter finds you well and your nation prosperous.

You were informed previously of the significant vote being undertaken in Rome. This is to advise you that Rome is moving to create stronger ties with Portugal, and the nations of the Great Southern Sea. We see this as being essential for Rome's future growth, stability, and security.

However, I do want to ensure you, our oldest and closest ally, that we do not see this new move as materially affecting our relationship. We trust that we can maintain the peace, trade and positive relations that have defined our history.

Should you have any concerns or questions, I am willing to travel to your capitol to discuss.

Regards and best wishes from your Roman neighbours....

Julian, Chief Senator Elect

Julian initials the letter with a large and informal J, knowing that Pontius will recognize the familiar mark.

Julian: And so.... the letter to the Dutch?

Reinius: Um, we are still struggling with that one sir. If you have time sir, perhaps we could discuss the wording ...

Julian: ( frowning) Indeed.