SDN World 3 Story Thread I

[Norseman]

BNS Pará
South Atlantic
D+0

The deep, dark tropical night... south of the equator it was summer and this was an unusually hot night, looking up at the moon Vice-Admiral Almeida wondered if that was a heat shimmer he saw flickering across the moon or if it was simply smoke from the dozens of warships moving out of the harbour. It was one of those romantic nights that promised either legend or disaster.

Looking up at the sky he wondered if perhaps he'd see a shooting star or some other omen, but there was nothing except possibly wispy clouds. A cool breeze blew across his forehead, but he still felt a bead of sweat running down his head. Up ahead he saw the lights of Rio de Janeiro and Niteroi, those wonderful lights were like scattered diamonds on black velvet. How many of those lights was a home, a house, an apartment? Hard to tell, but it was still humbling to think that the safety of all those people were now in his hands.

Once more he looked up at the sky, high up there the Southern Cross seemed to twinkle, so he whispered a prayer, "God, if you exist, like my old nanny always used to say, then save us now. We're not bad people, no matter what you might hear from the capitalists." Perhaps it was just a coincidence, indeed a moment later he decided it was, but a small shooting star streaked down across the Southern Cross just then.

At last the BNS Pará cleared the two cities on either side of the entrance to the Baia de Guanabara, and at last the large battleship began to pick up speed. Deep down in the bowels of the ship every single boiler was brought on line and the greedy fires slurped down oil like a spoiled child drank soda-drinks. Within half an hour they'd reached the speed of 24 knots and the BNS Pará smashed through the waves, sending huge sprays of seawater across the bow.

The sheer joy of being to sea, of commanding a fleet, banished his earlier melancholy, and instead he smiled and took a deep breath of the ocean air. Out to sea now and past the capitalists! By God (if he existed) they'd get a rude awakening!

*** *** ***

BNS Pará
South Atlantic
D+1, Morning

Sitting by his breakfast table Vice-Admiral Almeida sipped his tea while reading the latest dispatches. All ships present and accounted for, by all means that was a huge success. On the other hand he felt frustrated, though he hid it well, there was nothing he could do as long as things went according to plan. Still, he could suppress his frustration, after all he was hardly a midshipman, even if he had played and won at a midshipman's game... for some reason that turn of phrase seemed very amusing.

By lunchtime however he had relocated himself to the command centre, which in many ways was a much smaller and more cramped version of the one in the Number 14 Coastal Bunker Complex. Still there was little to do except to watch people push small magnets around on large map tables. It was one of the problems of maintaining radio silence; there were no orders to issue unless something went wrong.

Unfortunately things had a tendency to go wrong, around dinner time a snappy young officer announced, "Comrade Vice-Admiral, we have intercepted a radio signal." Half an hour later he returned to add, "Comrade Vice-Admiral, it's encrypted in what we believe is a Spanish cipher."

The meeting hall fell silent, Vice-Admiral Almeida took the opportunity to light a cigarette and to take a few deep puffs before he turned to his aide-de-camp, "Comrade Captain-Lieutenant, do you think that it's about us?"

After a moment's hesitation Captain-Lieutenant Lobato nodded, "That would be a safe assumption Comrade Vice-Admiral."

"I think so yes," Vice-Admiral Almeida said, once more using the cigarette as an excuse to stop to think, "If we increase speed to 20 knots can we get there before them?"

That caused a moment of hesitation as the calculators and plotters went to work, but in the end the message was clear, "Even with a shorter route they will still arrive two hours after us, at a minimum."

"That's if they turn around and come this way as fast as they can," Captain-Lieutenant Lobato said, "Militarily it's a bad move Comrade Vice-Admiral."

"So it is, but in capitalist nations political concerns often take precedence over military or scientific reality," Vice-Admiral Almeida said before he took another deep puff of his cigarette, in the end down he frowned, and slammed the cigarette down into an ashtray, "Balls to the walls comrades! Up the speed and radio the other ships. We're going to Buenos Aires!"

Though he was not as confident as he made out to be he was determined to come back victorious or not at all!

*** *** ***

Río de la Plata
D+3, Morning

Chilatine Freighter Tia-Maria

"Madre de Dios!" Captain Manuel Ortega said and crossed himself again, in all of his twenty years in the merchant fleet he'd never seen anything like this before! Right on the starboard side of his tramp freighter was an enormous battleship, as big as any he had ever seen, but with an enormous cloth banner running along the side reading "LIVE THE REVOLUTION!" Up on the ships themselves, and they came close enough that he got a very good look, there were men sitting astride the enormous main guns, patting them, and rubbing against them. Even worse those enormous main guns turned to point straight at him, even from a distance it was like looking into a railway tunnel!

Then the wake of the ships hit his freighter, making it heave slightly, that movement snapped him out of his trance. At once he ran towards the radio room, screaming aloud, "Pedro! Get that infernal thing working! We need to tell Buenos Aires!"

*** *** ***

[OOC: Raj Ahten if you're unhappy with this let me know and I'll change it.]

Chilatine Airship

High above the sea the Chilatine observation airship seemed very serene and removed from the troubles of the world. Of course appearances can be most deceiving, for inside the airship cameras and telescopes of every category was aimed downwards trying to get as much information as they could about the Brazilian fleet below.

A young lieutenant was busily flipping through a recognition manual, "That's a..." he wet his lips, "A 1919 or a 1921, it's hard to tell from up here. Those four are definitely all 1919s or 1921s. Those over there are 1915s, see the three turrets?"

In another section a radioman was busy listening in on the voice-radio, as he pushed the headphones closer and closer his frown grew deeper, "This is bizarre! Hey Sergeant, listen to this..." Turning on the loudspeaker the air filled with a crackling broadcast of a very jaunty tune with Spanish lyrics.

"Do what you want, ‘cause a commie is free,
YOU ARE A COMMIE!
Yar har, fiddle di dee,
Being a commie is alright to be,
Do what you want ‘cause a commie is free,
You are a commie!"

The Sergeant however just snarled, "Turn off that commie propaganda! We've got more important things to do here!"

*** *** ***

BNS Pará

Sitting in the command centre Vice-Admiral Almeida fought a smile; it seemed that every minute someone came in to report another radio signal, or that they'd spotted an aircraft of some sort. Spirits were high, the room was busy, but in a good way, and everyone seemed to be whistling that rather catching propaganda song.

"Rather excitable people Comrade Vice-Admiral," Captain-Lieutenant Lobato said, "Maybe they're not used to unannounced guests?"

"They're probably going back to prepare the yerba mate!" Vice-Admiral Almeida said, cracking a rare joke, but indeed everyone was just upbeat.

By now they knew that a dozen ships, at least, and several airplanes had seen them. Meanwhile, thanks to the policy of the Chilatine government, there were effectively no major ships remaining to defend Buenos Aires. From all the radio chatter that last bit of knowledge had caused considerable upset, which of course cheered the Brazilians on even more.

Until of course a young lieutenant brought them some bad news, "Comrades, we have received radio messages suggesting that the Chilatine fleet is drawing near."

That message threw cold water on everyone, Vice-Admiral Almeida immediately turned back to business, "Is it confirmed?"

"Yes Comrade Vice-Admiral, from intercepts and other sources."

"Put up the new distance on the charts," Vice-Admiral Almeida said, trying to fight back the frustration, Buenos Aires was so tantalisingly close. Indeed once the plotters and calculators had done their job it seemed almost as if he could reach out, touch it, and get out without any real danger. Rising from his chair he walked over to the plotting table, after standing there for a while, puffing on his cigarette, he announced, "Prepare for a high speed dash."

Unfortunately he had scarcely said it before another messenger arrived, "Comrade Vice-Admiral, the Central Coordinating Committee sends their compliments and instructs you to break off the engagement. You are not to proceed further into the Río de la Plata, nor to take any steps that might provoke the shore batteries into firing upon you."

It was all he could do not to crush his cigarette in sheer frustration. Instead he took a few deep breaths to give himself time to think. In the end he smiled faintly, "See Comrade Officers? That's what comes from breaking radio-silence." He regretted it somewhat, that wasn't necessarily the kind of joke you ought to make, but trying to explain away such a joke was always worse than making one.

"Comrade Vice-Admiral we require your orders," Captain-Lieutenant Lobato asked, sounding rather insistent.

Vice-Admiral Almeida took another deep puff of his cigarette, he felt melancholy about the great triumph that only partly was, but in the end he ordered, "Break off the engagement, head out to sea, we have superior speed on them even if its just a few knots so we'll use that."

RESULTS
- Brazilian Navy almost, but not quite, comes within sight of the Chilatine coast. However dozens of merchant ships and a couple of airplanes do spot them, so their presence is definitely known in Buenos Aires.

- Fleet consists of 12 battleships, 7 heavy cruisers and 28 light cruisers. Due to fuel restrictions there are no destroyers.

[K. A. Pital]

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Mogocha, in vinicity of the mouth of river Shilka.

The school in Mogocha was one of the many thousands of new schools opened in the Soviet Union. It's billboard read today "We have no burzhui in our nation for 12 years", for it was the May Day celebration. And soon, the Soviet Union prepared to liberate from the burzhui another swath of land to the East - meticulously, with precise planning, the springs of war were being set into position, to be released in a massive blow.

The newspapers of the Soviet Union - especially those in Siberia and the Far East - boasted headlines like "Far East Ultimatum!", "The final liberation of the Far East from the burzhiu is near!", "Death to White-Manchurian imperialists" and the like.

The air here was filled with anticipation of war that could break out any moment. The pioneers rushed around - instead of a May Day parade, the Soviet authorities prepared a civil defense drill for them. An entire pioneer camp had to put on gas masks and follow the targets of evacuation into the forests in case of a massive gas attack by the Manchurians.

But the pioneers were not the only ones subject to the drill. So were, of course, the soldiers of the Russian divisions concentrated on the border...

And even their horses...


Vast plains of Mother Russia. Moscow. May 1st, 1925.

The Red Square was filled with a majestic parade. Today the Soviet Union, as many other socialist nations in the world, held a parade in honour of May Day, a holiday celebrating the rights of the proletariat. The grand opening was bombastic.

Workers marched in columns through the Red Square before the Mausoleum, overseen by the Soviet authorities present on a wooden tribune erected right next to the building. Today was the day when worker councils' chiefs congratulated the workers, and often gave them collective presents; the larger factories each held a march. In the villages, May Day was celebrated likewise, and several khutors of peasants often gathered to have a village-wide feast.

It seemed as if nothing could eclipse the bright mood of celebration here in Moscow - nor the political bickering in the Kremlin corridors right nearby, neither the looming war... Tonight, electric lamps would shine with full strength and Moscow would turn into a giant flare if one would be piloting a plane over it; and huge salutes and fireworks were planned, starting with a salute by the Kremlin garrison in honour of those who fell for the Revolution.

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Kremlin cabinets. May 1st, 1925.

Chicherin re-read the Japanese "message". The contents of it were clear to any Marxist- Japan was willing to commit imperialist agression against Manchuria. One of the fleet's influentials, Dybenko, was present in the room. He, too, was not sure what to make of Japan's offer.

- The Japanese Empire wants to make landgrabs of their own, - Dybenko pondered on the possibilities that an alliance with Japan would offer. - On the other hand, it's every bit as regressive as Manchuria itself. We'll be shooting ourselves in the foot. Think of how low our prestige would fall among the opressed workers of these nations!

Chicherin nodded.

- Even so, the Japanese co-belligerence and interference with Manchurian affairs might be welcome, it will distract the damned burzhui from us. And we shall finally liberate the workers, - noted Dybenko, - I would say we should not make any arrangements or agreements with Japan. Japan is agressive and imperialist, and any conflicts between imperialists only advance comrade Lenin's great understanding - that capitalism is in it's final phase of self-destruction. It's rotting, - the sailor waved his hand towards the world map. - And while they rot, we shall wait. Sooner or later, the flames of world revolution so set aflame in Europe, Asia, and even America! - shall sweep away the burzhui and throw them onto the ash heap of history! Also, Japan is every bit so opposed to a Soviet naval presence in the Pacific, as is Manchuria itself. It would only be natural for us to allow Japan and Manchuria to weaken each other.

Chicherin agreed.

- Wise words, oh comrade people's commisar. I shall compose a message that would give Japan something to think about.

To Hojo Nishibori, Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The fact that Japan views the Manchurian provocations against the Soviet Union and neighboring states with distaste is very welcome. We are thankful for Japan's sympathies to the proletarian cause. However, the Soviet Union as you know is not a state that easily enters into alliances with Empires, and therefore we decline any offers of a formal alliance.

However, we should, perhaps as a sign of respect much as is your sympathy to our cause against the provocator imperialist Manchuria, inform the Empire of Japan that our intelligence has noted an increasing militarization of Manchuria, in particular increased naval preparations and presence in it's ports, which is hardly explainable for us, as we have no naval forces that might participate in a possible future conflict with Manchuria. This naval presence, we feel, might be of interest to the Empire of Japan, as Japan's communications with mainland China for resources are vital - even as we believe your own intelligence informed you of the same.

With respect, People's Commisar for International Affairs, Chicherin

[Thanas]

Middle of the south Atlantic
SMS Kanitz

"A message from our consulate in Uruguay, Herr Kapitän." The captain looked over it and then back on his ship. With a range of 10000nm at 21 knots cruising speed (top speed: 31 knots), the Kanitz was the first ship to arrive. It looked now as if the impressive engines were to be put to the task.

"Increase speed to 28 knots".

Meanwhile, SMS von der Tann tried to do the same, having reached its cruising speed of 21 knots as well. It would however still take several days for it to reach Uruguay and she would have to refuel after reaching it.




Dar-es-Salaam
The giant troop convoy entered the harbor and soon, German troops began unloading their equipment and moved into position.


Berlin, Reichskanzlei

The German Empire took note of the developments in the indian Ocean and the following message was delivered to teh Japanese Embassy:

From the German Empire to the Japanese Empire

Your excellency,

The German empire would like to emphasize that it does not appreciate any Japanese attempt to seize the marianas or celebes. Germany would view such a movement as a threat to national security and act accordingly.

We hope that a peaceful solution can be found to this.

Signed,
Johannes Sänger, Reichskanzler

[CmdrWilkens]

Police and Gendarmes detain hundreds after protests

Various state agencies have flooded in to the city of Granada in the wake of deadly riots that have left at least 120 dead and more than 300 wounded to greater or lesser degrees. The unexpected eruption caught local authorities unawares as the previously planned protest suddenly lunged towards a violent pro-communist demonstration. Shouting phrases like "death to the bourgeois" and "rise up for a socialist utopia" students and supporters crashed past police patrols and ran rampant through the heart of the city burning buildings and engaging in widespread looting.

At least 5 police are confirmed amongst the dead and a further dozen Gendarmes were killed during the initial response to the riot which raged for the better part of two days. It was only after Federal Police and several units from the Army of Nicaragua responded that order was finally restored and the government took steps to begin searching for the agitators who incited the worst violence the province has seen in a generation.

[Fingolfin_Noldor]

Constantinople Times

Editorial

The recent agreement between the Soviet Union and the Byzantine Empire, to reopen long closed borders in the Caucasus and to reaffirm the stance of non-interference in each others' affairs, in exchange for recognition of the Soviet Union, is a accumulation of many yes of patient diplomacy between the two nations. The landmark agreement was by and large a reflection of Byzantine foreign policy doctrine of pragmaticism.

The Russian Empire before it, had been a major export market for many of Byzantium's companies. While the Tsar's economy was not quite as sophisticated as Byzantium's, the large Russian population was a large market Byzantine companies could not ignore. The close kinship and ties between the two nations, dating back for centuries, gave Byzantium a privileged position within the Russian market, vis a vis many European nations.

All that however changed with the Russian Revolution. While Byzantium stayed neutral in the ensuing chaos, the loss of access to the Russian market was a blow to many. The Byzantine economy has long since recovered, as companies diverted their goods and exports elsewhere, it has long been a foreign policy goal of Emperor Alexios IV Komnenos, to restore Byzantium's access to the Russian market, and to achieve a detente that would be beneficial to both powers. Much suspicion reigned after the Communist revolution, as much of the people were swept up into both sides of the aisle. Riots took place outside the Theodosian walls, as Communist sympathizers tried to march into Old Constantinople, only to meet an equally violent mob of Monarchists. The Urban Cohorts were hard pressed to keep law and order, forcing the Emperor to deploy the Varangian Guard, who used brutal force to bring the rioters to heel. That day was known as Bloody Friday, and is still remembered till today.

Regardless, the Emperor, with the help of the Senate, managed to cool tempers down. Many reforms were enacted to appease both sides of the equation, such as granting greater welfare and support for the average worker, and a social safety net was crafted. The Emperors have often refrained from intervening in domestic affairs, but as the Head of State of the Empire, and a moral figure for all, Alexios IV Komnenos, newly ascended to the throne, was thrust into the greatest crisis to hit the Empire in many decades, took upon himself to heal the divisions within the Empire. While there are still many ways to go, it is clear that threat of warring ideologues remain. The so-called Freedom Conference, and the Communist counterpart, serves to remind us that the War of the Ideologues is far from over.

Byzantium has always straddled between the East and West, and is always forced to walk the middle line. Ideology is often regarded a luxury for foreign policy planners. As such, the Exarchs of the Foreign Ministry have striven to adopt stances which grant the Empire maximum flexibility, allowing the Empire room to maneuver between the myriad ideologies that plague the world, only taking sides when it is pressed to do so. We were forced to be pragmatic by virtue of geography centuries ago, and now we are forced to be pragmatic because we straddle a divide in ideologies. In the past, it was Christendom versus Islam, then Western versus Eastern Catholicism, then Eastern Catholicism versus Protestantism. The Patriarch of Rome has long since bowed to the supremacy of the Ecumenical Patriarch, but from the battle of the religions, we now have the battle of the ideology; Capitalism versus Communism, and behind the scenes, it is a battle of the social classes. Again the world is divided.

There are difficult times ahead, but this first step to reconcile the Byzantine Empire and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics will prevent future conflicts between both nations. May God Smile upon his Kingdom on Earth.

[Minister of Pigeonry]

Spanish Submarine SC-108
South Atlantic
Morning

Cruising leisurely on the surface SC-108 was bound for Montevideo, near to completing the six-thousand-nautical-mile-plus journey from Cadiz, nearly half a world away back home in Spain. The C2 Type Cruiser Submarine was quite a beast, perhaps one of the most advanced submersibles in service at that time and Captain Juan Lopez was proud to command her. However, pride could only do so much to lessen the frustration he'd suffered over the last month. The 108 and her crew had been recalled nearly a month and a half prior in preparation for the Combined Fleet Operation but after sitting in port for a week and a half, orders had come through for the boat and several of her sisters to set sail and return to Montevideo, home to the Spanish South Atlantic Colonial Defense Fleet.

In the opinion of Captain Lopez, the journey had been an utter waste from a commander’s standpoint, the Middle Eastern issues had been resolved and only a meager surface fleet had been sent along to partake in what became an international exercise. The short time spent on alert in Spain had only been made worth the trip by the chance he'd had visit with his wife and young daughter. Now, however, he would not see his family again until the next boat rotation which was not scheduled until August. Sighing, the Captain leaned against the inner wall of the conning tower’s weather protected deck “bridge.” As he pondered relocating the family to Uruguayan base housing and requesting a permanent station there, his men mulled about on deck enjoying the fresh morning air.

A trio of lookouts remained vigilant on the conning tower and its rear anti-air con tier scanning the horizon for any hazards that might appear. They’d traveled along the Brazilian coastline through the night and most of the crew relaxed now, as the boat likely lay off the Cisplatine coast on the final leg of her trans-Atlantic journey. When one of the lookouts called out a sighting, Captain Lopez broke from his train of thought and rose, peering over the uncovered edge of the con.

“Looks like multiple smoke trails out there,” exclaimed one of the lookouts, pointing towards the sooty smears in the distance. Several of the other crewmen on the deck began climbing the con for a better look. “What’s this, hmm?” asked the Captain moving over with little haste. The lookout closest to him lent him a pair of binoculars and the Captain took a look.

The ships lay ahead of the 108 and to port a few degrees, off in the distance. Besides the smoke, little more was visible of the vessels besides a single mast that stood above the horizon and Captain Lopez dialed in his binoculars. He studied the mast for a time but it began to fade out of view at which time he returned the optics to the lookout who still wore them around his neck by their strap. The Captain drummed his fingers against the edge of the con, mulling things over in his mind before moving to the waterproof deck “bridge” intercom, pushing the send button and ordering a change of course and speed.

Within moments the SC-108 turned onto a pursuit course and increased her speed to fifteen knots.


Spanish Submarine SC-108
South Atlantic
Late Afternoon

Having gradually caught up with the mystery ships, the 108 maintained a good distance behind her “quarry”. With a low profile in the water, it was unlikely the ships would spot her. Using an unorthodox trick, Captain Lopez had gone below and ordered that the periscope be raised, extending the visual device to its maximum height while still on the surface, the extension providing a slightly better view over the horizon and, thus, a better view of the ships ahead. Using the makeshift mast, identification took several minutes as the crew compared reference silhouettes but most of the Captain’s doubt had been swept away with his first look through the periscope, the vessels were definitely Brazilian Warships.

Within the hour, SACDeF HQ received the SC-108’s Level Three encrypted report on the vessels and, in turn, the report was relayed to the Chilitinian Embassy in Montevideo with all possible haste.

The following message was transmitted from one of our Submarines in transit from the Homeland to Montevideo:

Smoke trails and mast sighted at 09:23 -- Altered course to pursue target, speed increased to fifteen knots, heading changed to 170 degrees -- Maintained pursuit for eight hours -- Targets positively identified as Brazilian Warships at 17:20 -- Roughly four vessels identified: one Battleships, three Light Cruisers; Heading: due south, Speed: roughly twelve knots at time of transmission -- Will continue to track targets -- Awaiting orders

We are attempting to gather further information at this time; we will attempt to keep you informed on any new developments.

Hernando Rodriquez,
Vicealmirante, SACDeF

Colonial Defense Command Uruguay
Montevideo
Evening

With word from SACDeF of Brazilian vessels moving south, the main military organ in Spanish Uruguay had been shaken from its usual deep slumber. The Provincial Governor had been informed and word sent home, while, in the meantime, the overall readiness condition for the overseas province was upped from Condition Green to Condition Yellow. The northern defensive line was placed at a Stage One Alert, Costal Fortifications and related networks along the coastline and Rio de La Plata were placed at a Stage Two Alert.

Though it had taken the better part of the evening to put word through to each regional defense command - a veritable army of men and women working away at switch boards and updating the status of each unit as word came through on a large map of the province dotted with push tacks - all elements under Condition Yellow guild lines were at their designated readiness levels. Teniente General Alejandro was pleased with the quickness of those under his command; they had beaten the rest-to-readiness time record set earlier in the year by the Costal Defense Marines by seven minutes. No one had mentioned, however, that the Marines had reached Stage Two Alert in roughly the same time it had taken the Army to reach a Stage One and break the earlier record.

Having hurried to their posts, the soldiers manning the defenses now reached the inevitable wait period as their commanders reviewed the situation unfolding out at sea, deciding whether or not they had jumped the gun in calling for an alert.

[Lascaris]

Folha de Florianopolis

Cisplatine Republic and France sign far reaching agreement!

Our reporter

President Sneider and the French foreign minister have signed yesterday what the president has described as the Entente Transoceanique binding together the two countries in a military alliance. "It is the logical conclusions of our two great republics share of common goals and ideas. The democracies must stand together against the march of totalitarianism and monarchism." the president commented about the treaty.


The Franco-Cisplatine treaty of 1925.

The governments of the Cisplatine Republic and the French Republic, motivated solely by a desire to further peace and stability, and in securing general friendship between the two nations, hereby agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

In the event either of the High Contracting parties comes under attack the other High contracting power will come to its aid by all the means in its disposal, conduct the war in common and make peace in mutual agreement with it.

ARTICLE II

Both High Contracting Parties agree to exchange military information and maintain full communication between their general staffs for the purposes of better furthering common defence in time of war and peace.

ARTICLE III

Both High Contracting Parties agree to allow the other access to their respective War industries for the purpose of purchasing equipment.

ARTICLE IV

The present Agreement shall come into effect immediately after the date of its signature, and remain in force for five years from that date. In case neither of the High Contracting Parties should have notified twelve months before the expiration of the said five years the intention of terminating it, it shall remain binding until the expiration of one year from the day on which either of the High Contracting Parties shall have denounced it. But if, when the date fixed for its expiration arrives, either High Contracting Party is actually engaged in war, the treaty shall, ipso facto, continue until peace is concluded.

[Raesene]

Constantinople, May 1925

The salute guns boomed across the harbour as the Tuscan training ship Cristoforo Colombo dropped her anchor. All 450 crewmembers, from the cadets up to the captain of the ship built like a modern version of an 18th century three-decker, were eager to (re-)discover the highlight of their training cruise and experience the splendour of the Eastern Empire’s capital. But first, official calls were in order – the Tuscan ambassador and the Naval attaché were already rowed towards the ship in a barge, ERE naval staff would have to be received, the Tuscan community had to be entertained onboard…


Onboard RN Aquila, somewhere west of Corsica. Captain’s office, May 1925

Illustration of the Caracciolo conversion I christened Aquila

“Comune, we will continue with the dictation of the report.”

The seaman-secretary acknowledged that he was ready and the commander of the carrier spoke:
‘The bridge setup is as it is now absolutely not satisfactory. The lifting mechanism is prone to breaking down, either impeding the steering of the vessel or, even worse, prohibiting the operation of aircraft. While in emergencies launching aircraft by steaming backwards into the wind is possible and has been tested, the signing officers consider that not to be advisable as part of the standard operation routine. It is our recommendation to utilise the side-placed bridge as tested on RN Sparviero for RN Albatro and RN Cigno. While unusual, it requires no complex mechanism and keeps the flying off and landing deck reasonably free of obstructions.'

‘The flight tests of the new Horsely-prototypes showed the design to be suitable for naval use. The better performance of the metal version can not be understated. Its robustness compared to the wooden version is much better, and the heavier weight can be compensated by using stronger engines. Maneuverability and endurance were superior to the Dart bomber aircraft.’

‘The advantage of carrying larger payloads are bovious and should be kept in mind for the second-stage prototypes. The 45 cm air-launched torpedo is small compared to our ship-launched 60 cm weapons, its effectiveness against developing foreign torpedo defense systems is questionable. Enabling aircraft to carry heavier torpedoes therefore enhances their value significantly.’


Somewhere in a log cabin in Tuscany…

“When do we strike, Benito?”

“Soon – the weapons are nearly ready, and our comrades in the army are getting ready to support us. We will decapitate the bourgeois pigs power structure, rendering them leaderless and then, then we will lead All of Italy back to glory”

“To victory, then !”

“Alla salute !”

[Beowulf]

Somewhat unreal time (early May):

Junction of Hailar He and Shilka
Source of the Heilongjiang

This fortification was somewhat special. It was intended to be used to close the mouth of the Shilka to Russian, now Soviet river traffic. Thus, it had some special equipment.
"We've gotten orders: time to close the Shilka. Begin preperations for the firing of the mine projectors."

The mine projectors had been a relatively straightforward modification of a depth charge projector. Except that they were a bit larger, and launched naval mines, instead of depth charges. Several dozen mines would eventually be launched, for the most part nearly silently, due to the design of the projector. And due to the fact it was night, observers would at best hear splashes in the river. The mines were a fairly new type: bottom laid magnetic mines. Spread over a thousand yards of river, it was nearly impossible to sweep them.

Further down river, the 4 river monitors of the Heilongjiang squadron stationed at Yagsi prepared to sortie. Their 120mm guns would make short work of nearly any foe.

---

Dongjing
Manchuria

The King had returned from his conference with the Emperor.

"A new message sir. A photograph was attached."

"So they're staging shelling of their own lines, and claiming we're doing it?"

"It appears to be that way."

"It must mean that trying to externally justify a war. And thus, they must be preparing to invade soon. Begin mobilization. Shang Jiang, how long until the Chinese divisions reach the front?"

"Another day for the northernmost troops, sir. The rest of the troops have already reached their destinations, and are digging in. As agreed, 4 divisions are along the North Western front, and the other 4 are along the Western front with Mongolia."

"Will the new fortifications be ready in time?"

"Not even close. They've been dug out, and they've got some walls in, but they're probably another 4 months from being structurally complete. They're basically just going to be dug out fighting positions."

"And the 10 corps we started activating back in Feburary?"

"Two days, and they can be in position and dug in. Luckily, the trenches for them have already been dug. We just need to get them from their training grounds to the front. The fortress corps is already in their defensive line."

"Give the Soviets a response to their message. Send it the slow way. Maybe we can buy a couple extra days."

Response to the Soviets

We suggest you try to less obviously stage photographs.

---

All over Manchuria

Bells were ringing, calling men to town squares.

"What's going on?"

"All members of reserve units are hereby required to report to their units, effective immediately.

---
OOC:

Active Troop dispositions:
Northeast of the Heilongjiang:
3 fortress division in effectively 3 lines
2 fortress division in 2 lines facing west
1 fortress division guarding passes
1 Reinforced Infantry Corps - mobile reserve
1 Mountain Infantry Corps - mobile reserve
1 Reserve Infantry Corps - mobile reserve
45k men in fortifications

West Northernmost bend of the Heilong Jiang:
4 fortress divisions in 2 lines
Divisional strong points at 5 miles behind each line, with lines 10 miles apart. Strong points are offset to better cover the front.
1 Reinforced Infantry Corps - acting as mobile reserve
2 Reserve Infantry Corps - dug in along Defense Line Yi
1 Reserve Ifantry Corps - acting as mobile reserve
1 Chinese Infantry Corps - 2 divisions of 20k men - dug in along Defense Line Yi
Total:
60 thousand in fortification
140 thousand in trenches
105 thousand mobile
315 tanks

Along Hailar He
4 Fortress divisions in 2 lines
Divisional strong points at 5 miles behind each line, with lines 10 miles apart. Strong points are offset to better cover the front.
1 Reinforced Infantry Corps - acting as mobile reserve
2 Reserve Infantry Corps - dug in along Defense Line Yi
1 Reserve Ifantry Corps - acting as mobile reserve
1 Chinese Infantry Corps - 2 divisions of 20k men - dug in along Defense Line Yi
Total:
60 thousand in fortification
140 thousand in trenches
105 thousand mobile
315 tanks

South of Hailar He
3 Fortress divisions
3 Fortress division (mobilizing)
2 Reinforced Infantry Corps - mobile reserve
1 Infantry Corps -
2 Chinese Infantry Corps - 2 divisions of 20k men - dug in along Defense Line Yat

I still have family over, so whatever happens probably won't be really responded to until Sunday.

[Raj Ahten]

The South Atlantic

A young Lieutenant came up to Admiral Felix Obrador on his flagship, saluted and handed him a message. The admiral frowned deeply and said,
"It appears the Brazilian fleet has completely bypassed us and went cruising along our motherland's coastline before turning to head North again."

The Captain of the ship, a man named Vargas responded,
"How is that possible? The Reds are hardly seamen and.."

The admiral interrupted,
"Hardly seamen? They set sail at night under total secrecy, evaded our patrols and cruised almost to our coastline before being detected only by pure chance. They are real sailors Vargas and we sure as hell better not think fighting them will be easy. Plot us a course to intercept them on their way back North."

Soon after courses had been checked and orders relayed, the massive Chilitinean fleet turned to intercept their Brazilian counterparts. Back home the coastal defenses would be on high alert for days and there was also likely be a minor panic in parliament; the Admiral might even lose his job. Such concerns were far from Obrador's mind at the moment however. There was a point of honer to see to.

[Karmic Knight]

May the First 1925 (Unreal Time)
Location of the International Socialism Conference, The Hague

The International Socialism Conference, as the name had been decided as to be, had been carefully planned as a way of contrast to the “Freedom” Conference held in Buenos Aires earlier that year. Where the “Freedom” Conference saw army and navy actions from Chile-Argentina, the Union’s army and navy was happily celebrating May Day. There was security; the Internal Security Ministry lived up to the paranoia of its leader in subtle measures.

The opening ceremonies went off without major fault, and Chairman and Internal Security Minister Brandon Michaels stood before the assembled parties, “I would like to thank all of you who were able to attend this conference,” he paused to collect his thoughts, “Before the Union gives its presentation for improved socialist international cooperation, we would like to open the floor to delegates and attendees that would like to simply speak to the group.”

[Steve]

Portland, Federal District
May 13 1925


Admiral O'Connor was in main conference room at Naval Headquarters and listening as Admiral Malley gave his briefing. "...operations with Yakama have convinced us of the feasibility of assigning aircraft carrier vessels to our battle fleets, allowing them to shoot down enemy spotting planes and to protect our own from the same fate. The proposal for the Eagle would permit us a chance to further test the efficacy of utiilizing these craft."
"Where would we build it?"
"Parker in Astoria. They will have a slipway of sufficient size once the Chinook is launched. There will be some room in the naval budget, sir, even with the costs of the new Defiant..."
O'Connor shook his head with irritation. "We need budget space as well for our next destroyer. The new Jap ships are excellent destroyers and we have to match them."
"Design work on the Horton will not be complete until later in the year, I've been told. They've had to change a lot to match the Japs."
O'Connor grumbled. He wasn't entirely convinced of the use of these flying bits of wood and canvas compared to the firepower of the battleline, but the President had made his position clear that the Navy had to consider carrier projects. He was wondering if the man had been reading too many arguments from that American maverick Mitchell, but he had authorized the full run of 4 Defiants despite Liberal wishes to cut it over the expense of the ship, especially the high-power engines so O'Connor, despite the Tarrega situation, was willing to give his new Commander-in-Chief some benefit of the doubt.
After all, he was a Navy man, wasn't he?
"Well, we will consider the order for a new set of carriers based on the Eagle design," O'Connor stated. "Now, as for cruisers..."



Australian North Territory, 100 kilometers southeast of Katherine


Kyle Lanck rubbed at his forehead in the hot tropical sun as he surveyed the road bed. Just about 500 meters from the current Cooksland-North Territory rail line, the new one was being built to add further transport capacity to support forces in the north. It was a joint project of the continental Australian government and the Cascadian federal government, the intent to provide the communities that had grown up south of Darwin improved connectivity to the Australian rail network.
Or, Lanck wondered darkly at times, to enable the Army to more easily maintain its supplies for war in the event something happened and they were sent to take Darwin by force.
Oh well, I guess it's up to the Dutchies on that part, he pondered to himself while leaning over and checking the ground ahead of the bed. Still good, we can keep the road running for miles out here...

[Raj Ahten]

Cisplatina

Mr. Del la Vega was not a career diplomat. He was no an elected official. He was one of the most trusted men of Prime Minister Morales of Chilitina. His reputation of being a back room dealer par-excellence for the Chilitinean Conservative Party proceeded him. He was known for his direct and relentless approach to deal making. So when he got a meeting with the Cisplatinean Foreign Minister he went straight to the point after a extremely brief exchange of pleasantries.

"Sir I am not here to waste our time. I am here because Chilitina would like to make sure Cisplatina and chilitina are on the same page. Firstly, Chilitina wishes to have only peaceful relations with Cisplatina. Therefore we would like to sign a non aggression pact with your nation. Secondly Chilitina wishes for there to peace amongst the free non socialist nations with a presence in South America. To that end Chilitina recognizes Spanish claims on Uruguay against any comers. Thirdly we are concerned for your nation's safety. We know the Brazillian Communist's will not keep peace with you; it simply is not in their nature. Communists must export their revolution abroad. Chilitina is willing to join Cisplatina is a defensive alliance against Brazil if that nation attacks either of us."

[loomer]

Ministerial Palace, Kabul, People's Republic of Afghanistan
11:30PM, May 11th, 1925

“These are our forces? All of them?” Sub-Minister for Defence Fahad had a gravelly voice, the product of a lifetime smoking hashish and opium – throat cancer. “This list, this is all we have?”

His assistant, Jahua bin Aziz Al-Ludd, son of the Minister, nodded and gestured to another of the thick paper reports on the simple cedar wood desk. “Yes, sub-minister. That is the latest force report, and that is the document on our fortifications and air force, as you requested.”

Silence, broken only by the ruffling of pages and the click of a lighter. The room slowly filled with smoke as Jahua went through his cigarette, the lighting dim – a single electric globe hanging from the ceiling. Even in the best defended, most important building in Kabul electricity was a scarce commodity.

“We are outnumbered by all who border us, Al-Ludd. Tell your father we will need more men if we wish to defend ourselves against even small incursions from the Shepistanis.”

The young man nodded and turned, scurrying out of the room and down the moonlit corridors of the Ministerial Palace.



3 Miles North of the Border, Helmand Province, People's Republic of Afghanistan
6:15 AM, May 15th, 1925

“Fiyad, why are we out here?”

“We are to build a fort, Abdullah.” The caravan of camel drawn wagons and diesel trucks drew to a halt in the middle of the desert, just a few kilometres north of the Shepistani border, and the wizened, grey bearded engineer dismounted on creaking bones to stare up at the imposing tower of stone.

“We are to build Fort Akmar here?” He remained there on the dusty stones. “There is no water here. There will be no water to draw a well from...” His ruminations were interrupted when his son, Abdullah, stepped from the wagon, and in his creaky voice he turned to address his workers.

“Unload all you can. We must begin work before the sun rises too far!”

[Fingolfin_Noldor]

Abstract Naval Design Bureau Minutes

"... perhaps a new torpedo diameter 65cm should be considered?"

".. new torpedo impact fuzes to replace the current batch?"

"... possible superheavy shells for our 16"/50 guns? Can they be fired from the older 16"/45 without too much fuss?"

"... New carrier to provide planes to scout? Perhaps a complete new build under 30,000tonnes? Or a conversion of an existing battleship? One of the Colorados? Or convert one Sparta class? Or one of the new prototype super heavy cruisers scheduled for construction next year?"

"... How about the prototype seaplanes for the proposed carrier, as well as our sole existing carrier?"

[Lonestar]

P.N.S. Thunderer



The biplane flew over the latest battleship to join the Grand Dominion Navy, before circling around and heading back to the Archangel. Captain London sighed. Unlike most line office3rs he knew damn well which way the wind was blowing. It may take another couple of decades, but battleships were on their way out. He was glad that someone in the Admiralty had removed his head from his rectum, and managed to convince the legislature to pay for a proper air wing as part of the naval bill. The days of a 34,000 ton CV going to sea with only 20 planes were hopefully behind them. Assuming that the Manchu Government didn't hang onto the production coming out of their factories for use against the Reds...

"Captain? The aeroplane is reporting a Schismatic cruiser group 50 miles to the northwest. Rear Admiral Gomez wants us to go give them a welcome."

London scowled at the OOD. Gomez was on the carrier.

"Who's joining us on this little excursion?"

"Uh, everyone."

A raised eyebrow. A CV, the newest BB, 3 CLs, 5 DDs...."They sure they didn't see a screening group? How many?"

"Two heavy cruisers, 4 light ones and two destroyers is the count sir."

"Tallyho then."

The force moved northwest at best speeds, soon, within the hour, the Schismatic cruiser force had been discovered. They never saw them coming.



"Woohoo! Look at those bastards run!" London shouted. A blossom on the horizon indicated a hit on one of the CLs. "Damn, but this is a good..."

"What's that?"

"What's what XO?"

The commander pointed. A biplane was heading towards the Thunderer..."Why the devil isn't that heading out to the Schismatic..." London didn't finish the thought, as he realized that the color scheme wasn't quite right. "EVASIVE!" He shouted, as the torpedo dropped into the water. The 40,000ton battleship lurched as it attempted to evade the torpedo, to no avail. A shudder confirmed that the fantail took a direct hit. The speed abruptly slowed and a distinct list to starboard began.

"What's the word from DCC?"

"Looks like the outer starboard screw has been hit sir, we're reporting water in aft steering."

"Damnit. Alright, signal Admiral Gomez that we need to call off pursuit, and turn for home immediately. That was no floatplane...that was a carrier-based plane. So the Sheppo battlefleet is out."



RESULTS: Naval battle in Grand Dominion Gulf results in damaged Dominionite BB, which makes it's way back to port at 19kts. Unknown damage to Shepistani taskforce, although planes off of Archangel report two "confirmed" sinkings of heavy cruisers and 3 light cruisers.

[Steve]

Portland, Federal District


"Manchuria is mobilizing. You know what this means, right?"
Rachel MacKenzie nodded at the words of her subordinate, Undersecretary of State for East Asia Paul Cartwright. "War will probably break out soon."
"The Soviets may go fishing for Asian allies to distract the Manchurians and Chinese. And what do you think we should do? I've heard suggestions are floating around in the military staff lounges that we could try to reclaim Manado and northern Celebes ourselves."
"The President is not interested in a land grab that would force China, as the recepient of tribute from Manchuria, to close our trade to them," MacKenzie pointed out. "As for the prospect of other nations doing so..."


Tokyo, Empire of Japan


Ambassador Kenneth MacDougal was quick to inform the Japanese government of the note that had been telegraphed to him from Portland. He delivered it personally to the office of the Foreign Minister as he was instructed to do.
Further south, in the Southeast Asian Union capital of Manila, his counterpart Guido Pinelli would be delivering the same thing, as would Cascadian representatives to all nations with East Asian interests.

From the Office of the Secretary of State, Federal Republic of Cascadia


The Cascadian government views with alarm the imminent outbreak of war in the Far East. We hope that governments of Moscow and Dongjing find a way to settle their dispute peacefully, but if not then we assert our neutrality in the dispute.
The neutrality of Cascadia does not extend to the issue of other nations seeking to exploit the conflict for territorial aggrandizement. Cascadia cannot tolerate any permanent shift in the power balance of East Asia as such could be detrimental to the interests and territorial claims of Cascadia. Any attempt to seize advantage of the conflict to re-arrange borders elsewhere in East Asia, the Pacific, and the East Indies will result in a Cascadian response toward the attacker.

Signed,
Rachel MacKenzie, Secretary of State

OOC: Note delivered to Japan, the Southeast Asian Union, the Low Countries, Tuscany, Byzantium, Britain, France, and Germany. Though in the latter cases we aren't as worried about things since they generally don't seem threatening on the issue, and such points would be made by the Ambassadors in London, Paris, Berlin, Constantinople, and Florence (or is it Rome? I can't remember what Raesene decided for his capital) while delivering the note.

And note that while this, via what is not said, leaves open the possibility of convincing us to okay a takeover (hence the remark on "interests and territorial claims"), it would have to be negotiated first. And given the importance we hold in China as a market, the risk of making them an enemy for going after their tributary state's holdings is not one we'll lightly consider.

[K. A. Pital]

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Mouth of river Shilka.
Slowly an empty barge sailed downstream - it was one of the pontoon barges that the Soviet Union prepared for use as a floating bridge, and now it was set into position under the pretext of hauling supplies to the military units on the border. However, that barge never reached destination. Suddenly it blew up fiercely. And so did the tug, which tried to leave the area immediately after the blast - just in a minute or two it blew up like the barge.

- Pizdets, Kolya! - shouted one of the soldiers on the riverbank. - Immediately call the headquarters!

Official communique to the Kingdom of Manchuria.

You have mined the waterways that the Soviet Union uses for transport needs, and killed Soviet citizens in that act. Mining of waterways is considered an act of war. Hereby the Soviet Union declares war on the Kingdom of Manchuria.

People's Commisar for International Affairs, G.V. Chicherin

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Mogocha, in vinicity of the mouth of river Shilka.

After the barge exploded, the headquarters decided to send another few metal hulks taken from the civilian river fleet downstream to clear the traffic. Soon the mouth of Shilka erupted in explosions. When the command considered it safe enough, the monitors and armored cutters went forth - but they stopped short of entering Amur, which could still be heavily mined. Their task was artillery support, after all.


The massive Shilka military flotilla, around thirty small armored cutters and nineteen large armored river ships - eighteen monitors and one barge converted to an improvised aircraft carrier, were fully loaded with fuel and provision. Upon reaching the Shilka mouth, they begun an artillery assault on the fortified Manchurian positions on the opposing bank of the Amur. The nine M-24 seaplanes were attached to the SNS Commune, operating in two squads of four with one spare plane. The barge did not sail too far downstream - the range of the M-24 was more than sufficient for current reconaissance operations over Manchurian forts. The planes often made sorties to the East and West along the Amur and reported locations of the forts to Russian artillery positions along the border and the artillery regiments attached to infantry divisions.

The Shilka military flotilla posessed eight of Russia's most potent monitors, the Shkval-class, and some smaller ones, but likewise quite potent, the Vogul-class. In total, the flotilla had 46 120-mm guns, 16 152-mm guns, seven 122-mm mortars and a vast array of smaller guns. The heavier monitors were supported by three light Buryat-class monitors sporting 75-mm guns. All of them had anti-aircraft cannons or machine guns for shooting down enemy airplanes.

The tasks of the flotilla were very important to the assault - not just artillery bombardment and aerial recon. There were a dozen more large barges hauled down the Shilka by tugs and behind the flotilla. Those were to be used to create bridges over the Amur. The strength of those barges was enough to allow Soviet hardware to pass over them. These barges would be turned across the river - and then the flotilla ships would guard these crossings until the engineers would construct a more permanent bridge.

At a precisely determined time - 06:00, before dawn, eight Soviet full-strength rifle divisions - the 12th, 21st, 26th, 32nd, 34st, 36th, 40th and 57th - started advancing from Mogocha towards the Soviet-Manchu border at the mouth of river Shilka. Each of these divisions was augmented by a small tank regiment with 20 light Renault Russian tanks, which were nigh direct copies of the French FT-17 design. A total of 100 tanks participated in the assault, slowly crawling forward - 60, or roughly three regiments, were left in the reserve. It was the first taste of armored warfare for the Soviet Union. Experienced tank drivers, who operated Mendeleev tanks or trophy FT-17s during the pre-revolutionary conflicts and Soviet-Polish war, trained the units of the Special Far Eastern Army, but most of them served in the special tank flotilla. The lack of training resulted in tanks being sent forward with fuel, but often without maintenance teams. Soon this resulted in several breakdowns, and around ten tanks went out of the attack even before reaching the frontlines.

The divisions' advance, which was immediately labelled North-Eastern Front by the Soviet command, was supported by two special heavy siege artillery regiments and numerous smaller light or medium artillery regiments attached to each division. The heavy artillery regiments were to move slightly west of the Shilka mouth. They sported five special 280-mm Shneider mortars each, and their task was to assault Manchurian trenches and concrete fortifications.

The railway that went from Mogocha to the Russian border entrenchments trembled, as two train brigades, each consisting of two heavy and two light armored trains, advanced from Chita, through Mogocha, for the border - to assist in the brutal shelling of the Manchurian positions. The two heavy armored trains were to concentrate additional 203 and 152 mm heavy guns on the Manchu fortifications at the Shilka mouth, while the Russian positions around would be covered by the two light trains during the assault. The light trains were to assist in the event of Manchurian attempts to assault the border elsewhere; their area of operations was the entire Russian railway along the river Argun and Amur from Sretensk to the Shilka mouth positions.

The ten thousand men strong Second Cavalry Corps so far advanced behind the infantry divisions, waiting for the Manchu fortresses to be cracked and then to stream into the breach and ravage the communications set by the Manchurians behind the river Amur at it's northernnost turn - and then assist the infantry forces in a continued onslaught towards Nenjiang.

In total, the first assault on the Shilka mouth concentrated over 110 000 men, 1000 pieces of field artillery, 100 tanks and 9 mobile, carrier-based airplanes on a roughly 70 kilometer wide front. The task of the assault was to annihilate or capture two Manchurian heavy fortifications of Defense Line Yat, one right next to the Shilka mouth and one around half a hundred kilometers east of it, break through them and advance through the resulting breach and into Manchurian territory, aiming to reach Nenjiang.

The supply lines were to be secured by two infantry divisions, the 110th and 111th, stationed at Mogocha, which would advance onward once the offensive would break the first Manchurian lines.

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Several hundred kilometers south of Nerchinsk. Starotsurukhaitui village, Soviet-Manchurian border. River Argun, Soviet bank.
The second front was to be opened down south and in the west. It was named South-Western Front in the headquarters.

That strike was to attack right from Starotsurukhaitui, and advance to Hailar, thereby cutting off any Manchurian forces left in the pocket around lake Hulun or Dalainor as the Russians and Mongol called it. Planes sortying from Sretensk have well investigated the other side of the border, and the forts located immediately behind the river Argun were the first target of the attack. The front here was smaller - only some 30 kilometers wide breakthrough was planned by the Soviet leadership. But here it concentrated enormous firepower.

The assault would start with artillery preparations by artillery regiments. For the task of dealing with exceptionally hard forts, two special heavy regiments were present. One regiment sported five enormous 305-mm pattern 1915 mortars, the other was a railway regiment, and it posessed two 203-mm naval guns put on TM-8 railway transporters. These TM-8 weapons were exceptionally suited for long-range bombardment and had excellent ballistic properties. The units' medium and light artillery regiments were to support the assault as well.

And, of course, the heavy tank flotilla transported here from Moscow, which was a part of the heavy tank armada. It had a hundred Mendeleev tanks - the last ugly child of Tsarist hypermobilization, done according to the 1914 project of engineer Mendeleev, these tanks had a single forward looking 120-mm naval gun, and were more like mobile artillery platforms. They were to follow the advancing forces and, in case a heavy fortification was noticed, to come forward and assault that fort with direct fire from their 120-mm. Alongside them, another 200 light Renault Russian tanks were to engage in the attack. Sixty Renault Russian tanks from tank regiments accompanying the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Special Far Eastern Divisions were left in the reserves. The 1, 2, 3 Far Eastern were the very best that the Red Army had to offer. Hardened veterans of fights with the Poles and the Basmachi, they were strengthened with attached armored car regiments of 30 armored cars - 90 Austin-Putilovets armored cars total. They were the only units in the entire Soviet Army that had the luxury of operating just one stardard type of armored car - the rest had a mishmash of various chassis, and some even included 1905 armored cars created for the first Russo-Manchurian war. But these veteran machines would never see the enemy again.

Two armored train brigades, like in the Northern Front, were to support the operations. Heavy trains were to shell Manchurian positions ahead to the East of Starotsuruhaitui, whereas the light trains were to roll between Starotsuruhaitui, Dauria, and Alexandrovskiy Zavod. They were to provide distractions against other Manchurian emplacements, thereby denying the enemy a chance to draw his forces.

The First Cavalry Corps, with veterans from the Soviet-Polish war, that was moved from the West, would follow behind the advancing divisions, and as soon as a breach was achieved, would conduct operation similar to that of it's companion in the Northern Front.

This breach was to be secured by an additional three infantry divisions - 112, 113, 114. Also, engineer regiments were to be drawn from these divisions to help support a crossing of Argun. Starotsuruhaitui was almost the perfect crossing sport, with a narrow place and no wide-reaching riverside swamps.

The aviation assets granted for the operation were two recon squadrons of R-1, two light bomber squadrons of R-1 and two heavy bomber squadrons with Ilya Muromets, as well as two fighter squadrons with 18 Fokker D.XI each, moved from Moscow - a total of 84 planes, of them 12 heavy bombers of the latest Ilya Muromets model. All planes were sortied in the first, very early hours of the attack, and bombed the Manchurian positions and fortifications at the other bank of the Argun right on the border, to secure the assault and river crossing.


In total, the assaulting force would accumulate another 100 000 men, 900 pieces of field artillery, 300 tanks and 90 armored cars, and 84 warplanes to strike on a very small front, to break through Manchurian positions and advance to Hailar. Upon taking Hailar, the Soviet Union planned on continuing the offensive to Boketu.

There were two half-complect infantry divisions with additional 40 Renault Russian tanks - 35th and 94th, and one fully complect infantry division, the 115th, in the reserves of this offensive, which were placed in defensive positions at the key cities - Priargunsk, Dauria, Alexandrovskiy Zavod.

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Far North-East, Russo-Manchurian border - river Uda mouth.
Here, the Soviet Union had long-time entrenchements and some fortifications for infantry division number 119 - building and supplying anything here a lot was hard thanks to lack of railway or river transportation and creeping permafrost. But that also made the Russian Far North an extremely unlikely target of attack, since advancing over it without any supporting communications was pure suicide.

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Special Far Eastern Army.
The Special Far Eastern Army threw it's units into offensive operations, but it didn't forget to leave sufficient defences along the border. Four fully complect infantry divisions - 115, 116, 117, 118, as well as the five other infantry divisions which were meant to secure the breaches, in total 9 infantry divisions, guarded the entire length of the Argun and Amur rivers from Dauria to the North-East and beyond Skovorodino and Zeya, at all points where the assault would not be made. Around ten reserve units from Chita, which begun forming and as of now were in various degrees of deployment, were placed along the river Amur in key populated areas.

There were also thirty reserve infantry divisions being formed at Chita - these units had prepared command chains, but they were expected to mobilize and deploy fully only by end of June. These were the Soviet reserves for the operation.

Vast plains of Mother Russia. Central Asian military district
Here, the Soviet command concentrated two infantry and one cavalry divisions, as well as one armored train brigade. These forces were to stand guard on the Soviet-Chinese border in case the Chinese would be insane enough to actually risk direct war with the Soviet Union and initiate an offensive through the bad desert terrain lying between China and the Kazakh SSR. Twenty infantry divisions were mobilized across the entire Central Asia - the Soviet Union well knew the price of being unprepared, and was certain it's better to overreact.

[Akhlut]

Niislel Khüree

"Khan, the Jurchid are mobilizing along our border."

"Very well, deploy all active reserves along the border. Keep the Steel Horse divisions and half the cavalry behind the lines to deploy anywhere they try to break through if they invade. Mobilize the Bayan Tümen reserve divisions to help fortify the city. Continue trade as normal, though and send a note to the king to let him know our neutrality in their conflict with the Soviets."

Mongolia has no interest in warring with Manchuria and China and we shall stay neutral in your conflict. We shall continue trade and, as long as there is a military presence on your border, there shall be a military presence on ours.

May Buddha Smile Upon You,
Khan Angarag

[Thanas]

OOC: Okay, the following post is happening in unreal time, in April 1925

Berliner Zeitung

French-German secret agreement to be revealed.
The German admiralty has revealed that the French Navy has purchased two of the four Lexington class carrier hulls currently in construction, namely the one at the Naval Shipyard in Bremerhaven and the one at Germaniawerft, Kiel. These ships were originally destined for the German Navy, but due to the spirit of rapproachment, the German Navy has decided to sell the two ships to the French. The Commander of the German Navy, Großadmiral Reinhard Scheer, noted that the German Navy was in the debt of the French Navy, which sent its battlefleet out to see in support of Germany during the recent diplomatic crisis in the Indian Ocean.

The ships are to be delivered at the same time as the two carriers still destined for the German Navy, though the aircraft carried will be French.


New ships commissioned and launched
The Navy celebrated the commissioning of the final Hamburg class light cruiser, the final ship of the Z-22 destroyer class and the final heavy cruiser of the Blücher class.


The Navy also celebrated the launch of the last of the Bismarck class today.

New prototypes unvealed
It has become known to the Berliner Zeitung that the ariforce has selected the Dornier Do-H as the new mainstay carrier and land-based fighter.

Prototypes have already been ordered.



OOC: This post may change in the future depending on my redesign of my forces based on the last few rulechanges.

[Evincer]

The Hague

Le Proletariat Hotel




Bustamante held his head in his hands and stared down at his desk. It wasn't supposed to be going this way.
The Soviet Union is engaged in a war over territory claims with Manchuria, and Brazil just launched the most provocative naval mission I had ever heard of.
Exasperated, he turned to Mariategui

"What are we going to do about our socialist comrades?"

Mariategui remained placid, ever contemplating the situation.
"I always thought that spreading the revolution does not involve antagonizing one's neighbours. The Soviets and the Brazillians are giving carte blanche to reactionaries."

Bustamente nodded.
"They are positioning themselves as the aggressors."

"This dangerous adventurism must stop. It could lead to a coalition of the most brutish elements of the Conquistadors. We, and revolutionaries in general, should be providing a guiding light, but everyone has their own path to follow."

"We can't openly dispute these issues. We don't want to contribute to further divisions in the international."

"I'll see what we can put together."

[MKSheppard]

Army House, Shepistani Federation

"So the goddamn Reds have invaded Manchuria, eh?" said Maximillan.

"Yessir. According to our military attache in Manchuria, the provocations staged were unusually blatant...for people who are not schismatics."

"That tears it," remarked Maximillan.

"Order the Navy to implement Case Green."

Announcement by the Navy Department of Shepistan

The Recent Invasion of the Peace loving peoples of Manchuria by the gang of pirates and brigands calling themselves the Soviet Union has regrettably made clear to the Shepistani Federation it's responsibility to police the Shepistani sea of Piracy and Brigandry.

Thus, all shipping sailing under the flag of pirates and brigands is deemed subject to the laws of seizure and if they do not comply, they will be sunk.

OOC

By Pirates and Brigands, I refer to you the Sheppo Delegate's announcement:

"Additionally, the Shepistani Government recognizes the right of any recognized government to use the Shepistani Sea for international commerce, and will restrict its searches of ships in the Shepistani Sea.

However, it does not recognize the right of international outlaws and brigands to use the Shepistani Sea for international commerce."

The Shepistani Federation does not recognize any communist country, and considers them outlaws and brigands. So the Sheppo Sea has just been closed to Communist Shipping.

[Lonestar]

The Gold Palace

"The traitors must not be allowed to expand out!" Berman shouted, slamming his fist on the table. Lord Fairfax held up his hand.

"Vladimir, the Grand Dominion has welcomed the monarchist exiles into our country...but that does not make the bandits in Russia 'traitors' to us."

"Lord Fairfax, we cannot allow them..."

"Calm yourself. Of course we cannot. Blitzschlag?"

"The Manchu Kingdom is the closest thing to a friend that the Grand Dominion has. We engage in much trade with them, they allow us to send missionaries in their land. If the Manchu Kingdom falls, it would be disastrous for us. For example, the main battery of the new battleships and battlecruisers that have been ordered are of a Manchu design, as have the new aircraft. But...I do not think that it would be safe for us to openly declare war." Blitzschlag puffed on his pipe. Lord Fairfax stood up and walked over to the map that covered the North wall.

"Marshal Piper, have we begun moving those additional troops to Araby yet?"

"The first regiments actually be at sea sir, the 12th Heavy Artillery(Mobile) and 57th Light Cavalry."

"Call them back. What's the status of our ammunition stores?"

Piper could see where he was going. "We have millions of shells of the 75mm and 10.5cm in storage. As you know, the 'ammo shortage' during the early months of '13 have led us to create a hefty pile..."

"Just in those two calibers?"

"Those are the only two I know right off the top of my head that the Manchus share with us. There may be more, but I don't have the numbers in front of me."

Lord Fairfax nodded. "Navy? Can we create a secure convoy system to Manchuria?"

Grand Admiral Saldana shook his head.

"The incident in the Grand Dominion Gulf proves we still need to keep our battleline local. But I think the first convoy out, at least, will be able to include one of our Enrico Dandalos. Our primary concern is going to be from Red commerce raiders and AMCs, not line ships anyway. That should scare anyone off, except the Nips of course."

"What then?" Piper asked.

"We don't have the ships to fight both the Nips and provide a modicum of security to the Grand Dominion Gulf, so it's a largely academic question as to what we'll do."

"Alright." Fairfax spoke. "Vladimir, I need you to draft a message..."

Foreign Ministry release

The Grand Dominion government looks upon the recent land-grab in Manchuria by the organization in Moscow with regret, and insists that communist forces withdraw to pre-incident borders.

As the Grand Dominion government doubts that the communists will follow this sensible and sane route, it is calling for the creation of "volunteer" brigades to push back the Red Menace. In addition, the Grand Dominion shall provide as much material assistance as possible to the embattled Manchus, short of war.

Any ship flying the flag of the organization in Moscow will be stopped and searched for contraband.

We call open all countries to attempt to influence the organization in Moscow to step back form the precipice.


S.S. Mud Scow, horse transport

The men had noticed that something was wrong as soon as the entire convoy had abruptly made a 180. After about 6 hours of silence the officers had come down to the berthing area of the men of the 57th, explaining their new destination, and how they must all stencil a blue shield on their helmets to differentiate themselves from the Dominion army. There had been grumbling until ti was mentioned that, as "volunteers", they were going to receive 50% more pay.

Results: Convoy carrying first Dominionite "volunteers" and material heads towards Manchu Kingdom. One Commerce Raide, 2 CLs, and 3 DDs are the escort.

[MKSheppard]

The Shepistani Sea

S.F.S. Edward plowed through the seas at full power, giving chase to the tramp steamer flying the Dutch flag. An hour ago, they'd sighted the Dutch ship and signalled it through flags to heave to and be boarded.

Instead of complying, the Dutch ship had turned to and increased speed to what was an astounding 15 knots (astounding for a supposedly ill maintained tramp). Unfortunately for her; the Edward had just been slightly reboilered a few years ago increasing her speed by a knot; and now she was pounding ahead through the waves at 21.5 knots; slowly overtaking the steamer, with power to spare.

On the bridge of the Edward, the Captain turned to his XO. "To hell with chasing these pirates, or giving them a warning shot. You may open fire, Gridley."

"With pleasure, sir."





After five minutes of firing, or about 30 rounds down range from the forward turrets, a 14" shell struck the steamer square midships.



As the steamer slowed and lost steerage, the Edward pulled up alongside, and the 5"/51 casemates along her side opened up, raking the hapless steamer with a hail of rounds.

Under the hail of gunfire, the ship seemed to crumple in on itself, and within 30 minutes, had sunk under the waves, leaving nothing but a cloud of smoke to mark it's passing.

A single lifeboat bobbed on the waves.



"Sir, the steamer has been sunk. What do you want done with the survivors?" questioned the XO.

"I see no survivors. I see a bunch of pirates and bandits, the like of which burned Williamsville to the ground in aught fifteen. You may do with them as you wish." proclaimed the Captain.

"Sir."



Minutes later, several of the casemated guns opened up with aimed fire, walking their shots onto the lifeboat, until a direct hit reduced it to splinters. As final insurance against survivors, the debris was then run over by the mass of the battleship.

Results: Shepistani sea definitely off limits to Communist shipping.

[Lascaris]

Cisplatina

Mr. Del la Vega was not a career diplomat. He was no an elected official. He was one of the most trusted men of Prime Minister Morales of Chilitina. His reputation of being a back room dealer par-excellence for the Chilitinean Conservative Party proceeded him. He was known for his direct and relentless approach to deal making. So when he got a meeting with the Cisplatinean Foreign Minister he went straight to the point after a extremely brief exchange of pleasantries.

"Sir I am not here to waste our time. I am here because Chilitina would like to make sure Cisplatina and chilitina are on the same page. Firstly, Chilitina wishes to have only peaceful relations with Cisplatina. Therefore we would like to sign a non aggression pact with your nation. Secondly Chilitina wishes for there to peace amongst the free non socialist nations with a presence in South America. To that end Chilitina recognizes Spanish claims on Uruguay against any comers. Thirdly we are concerned for your nation's safety. We know the Brazillian Communist's will not keep peace with you; it simply is not in their nature. Communists must export their revolution abroad. Chilitina is willing to join Cisplatina is a defensive alliance against Brazil if that nation attacks either of us."

Papadakis raised an eyebrow. "Ah an interesting set of proposals and claims mr De la Vega. To start with the first certainly the republic would not mind signing a non aggression pact with your nation, as we have just done with Brazil. We seek peace with both your nations after all.

Now to your recognition of Spanish claims against all comers as you put it. Please come to the window. It has an excellent view of the sea and Santa Catarina island. Do you see the two battleships anchored there close to Fort Garibaldi? They are the Jose Artigas and the Juan Antonio Lavalleja. Now would you happen to know why two Cisplatine battleships are named after two national heroes of Uruguay? Why because as it happens they are also national heroes of Cisplatina as well. And why this would happen to be so? Oh because Uruguay and Cisplatina both believed to be one country. Now politics may have stopped the union from taking plac after Cisplatina broke free of Brazilian rule but the republic very much maintains its special interest in Uruguay, as France maintains its special interests in Alsace-Lorraine.

Now given that Spain took advantage of the Brazilian civil war and our preoccupation with it to take over Uruguay and that it was at the invitation of the Blanco coupists who had overthrown president Battle (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_ ... B3%C3%B1ez) the republic has never de jure recognised the Spanish takeover. And we fully maintain the right to intervene in Uruguay if we think intervention is necessary. So would you care to elaborate on what you mean by "recognizing Spanish claims against all comers and how this ties to offering us an alliance in the next phrase?