The Sword of Damocles (Gameplay Thread) (Early 1930)

[Lumine]

The Sword of Damocles
(Gameplay Thread)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Cast:

GM: Lumine

Chancellor Wilhelm Marx / German Empire (Cranberry)
CiC General Douglas MacArthur / USA (Mauldania)
President Francois de la Rocque / France (Windjammer)
Prime Minister Winston Churchill / United Kingdom (Weyfield)
Minister of War Enver Pasha / Ottoman Empire (Kalwejt)
Prince Felix Yusupov / Crimean State (Garlan Gunter)
Prime Minister Alexander Kerensky / Provisional Government of Russia (Blair)
General Secretary Julian Besteiro / People’s Republic of Spain (Spamage)
Prince Saionji Kinmochi / Japanese Empire (Dereich)
Tsar Nicholas I of Romania / Kingdom of Romania (Kingpoleon)
Prime Minister Chiang Kai Shek / China (NeverAgain)
Emperor Victor Emmanuel III / Kingdom of Italy (SouthernGothic)

Wars, Economy and Popularity:

Ongoing Wars:

Russian Civil War:
(Various Russian states)
Ceasefire Phase (no current hostilities)

Popularity Ratings:

Prime Minister Alexander Kerensky: High
President Francois de la Rocque: High
Prime Minister Winston Churchill: High
Chancellor Wilhelm Marx: Medium
CiC General Douglas MacArthur: Medium
General Secretary Julian Besteiro: Medium
Prince Saionji Kinmochi: Medium
Tsar Nicholas I of Romania: Medium
Emperor Victor Emmanuel III: Medium
Minister of War Enver Pasha: Low
Prince Felix Yusupov: Low
Prime Minister Chiang Kai Shek: Low

Economic Ratings:

Republic of France: Strong
German Empire: Strong
United Kingdom: Strong
Kingdom of Italy: Moderate
Japanese Empire: Moderate
Ottoman Empire:  Moderate
Provisional Government of Russia: Weak
People's Republic of Spain: Weak
Kingdom of Romania: Weak
Crimea: Weak
Chinese Empire: Weak
United States of America: Weak

[Lumine]

Warfare:

War Units:

Our new warfare system is based on BoP, but simplified to make it less of a pain to simulate. We will continue to use specific army numbers, and battles will be simulated with dice rolls. Armies are granted two dice each battle, with additional dice added on relative advantages and disadvantages (terrain, morale, commander, numerical superiority, etc). Rather than exact numbers, we will use UNITS to fight wars, every country having a determined number in peacetime.

Four things to have in mind:

1.- It is assumed all your overseas territories have garrisons. That means those territories will be defended in case of war, but in order to be able to attack you need to assign extra troops.

2.- There are special units and technologies to be unlocked. These will come with time, bu for the time being, we use WWI style warfare, with no Aircraft Carriers and no Tanks (yet).

3.- Mobilization will increase your army size when you declare war, replenish your current divisions and give you extra ones. That said, the more trops you send to the field, the more your economy suffers.

4.- Logistics matter. No nation can field, say, 1,000,000 men in Libya and keep them fed and supplied. Likewise, Normandy-style landings are far from a possibility, so amphibious landings must be planned well since they won't be able to start with large forces.

Now, regarding units:

Land Units: We go with the principle of divisions of different types (each divison has between 10,000 to 15,000 men). All countries have available Infantry (standard), Militia (cheaper, less organized infantry) and Cavarly (the faster units, less effective against infantry). Some countries will be granted access to specialized divisions, like paratroopers, marines or armored divisions.

Sea Units: Same as BoP, you form fleets with different naval types. Aircraft Carries (AC) are forbidden at the start, what you have available is Battleships (BB), Cruisers (CR), Destroyers (DD) and Submarines (SUB). Some nations get naval combat bonuses (UK and Japan, for example), but we won't go into deeper detail (no tonnage or other excessive things).

Air Units:

Not WW2 air combat to be sure, but still important. We use "wings" of about a 100 airplanes each. You have fighter wings (air superiority, defense, escort and so on), bombers (various bombing missions) and transports (to do air bridges, supply, paratrooper missions).

Current Armies:

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[Lumine]

Turn One:  Early 1927

Photograph of the Kita Tanfo earthquake, event that has claimed 3,000 lives in Japan

USA:

1.- Many congratulations on your confirmation, General. With your rivals Roosevelt, Hoover and Pershing accepting your victory, it seems you have the National Security Council fully on side for the time being. It’s time for the Inauguration Speech of your administration, along with your legislative program for the NSC. What will you focus on this year?

2.- Former Presidents Hearst and McAdoo have escaped to Cuba along with their loyalists and a small part of the fleet, with the Cuban government declaring independence while the McAdoo Administration forms a government in exile in Guantanamo Bay. Will you leave them to irrelevance, demand their return and risk war, negotiate with the Cubans?

3.- Most states have temporarily quieted down, despite the KKK guerrilla trying (and failing) to organize. While most state governments remain in place with “advisers” from the military, the South is under martial law due to its loyalty to McAdoo and its resistance to civil rights. How should the South be treated? Self-government? Military administration? Perhaps, a second Reconstruction?

Spain:

1.- You are now the master of the Spanish Revolutionary Party, having purged your biggest rivals. Alas, the constant struggles have led to confusion as of the current stance of the party and the People’s Republic, some defending a more socialist and federal approach, others standing with the communist and more authoritarian wing, and others even proposing an aggressive expansion and sponsoring of revolutionary movements. What is the path to follow for the revolution?

2.- The attempts to de-Christianize Spain have met significant setbacks in the past year, as the population finds it hard to suddenly abandon Catholicism. The matter has become explosive in Navarre, where the powerful Carlist movement openly calls for disobedience and holds secret masses with the crowds. How will you deal with Navarre?

3.- General Secretary, a plea of help has come to you. While your relationship with Portugal has remained once of prudence, the revolutionary groups have openly requested your aid in their attempts to topple the Portuguese Monarchy for good. Likewise, Grigory Zinoviev requests military and economic aid to his Archangelsk Government. Is it time to expand the Revolution?

United Kingdom:

1.- Evening, Prime Minister. Six months of Conservative government have seen you remain popular with the public as the economic and domestic situation stabilizes, but there is a lot to be done still. How will you work with Parliament this year and what measures will you seek to pass?

2.- The issue of Ireland needs solving at some point, even if military occupation has pacified the island for now. Should the issue be left for later or tackled now? Should the island be split among unionist and loyalists to create a dominion? Should there be a single Irish government? The British public want the issue to go away, but the matter is sensitive.

3.- A cabinet meeting today led to the Foreign Secretary expressing his concerns over the situation of Canada now that a military government is in control of the United States. Canada is independent and British troops are forbidden by treaty, but the country elected to retain the British King as monarch and feels very much close to the Empire.

Romania:

1.- My condolences on the passing of the King, your Grace. As the new King you are in control of Romania, but the matter of your older brother Carol (the original heir to the throne, who was disowned after marrying his commoner lover) that lives in exile in Rome remains controversial. What will you do about Prince Carol?

2.- A new coalition government has taken place, much more reformist and center-left than any previous Romanian government. Prime Minister Pantea meets with you to coordinate the policies to follow on his parliamentary term. What shall be done?

3.- Some believe it is time to create closer ties to other countries, even if the public remains hostile to Germans, Ottomans and the Magyar Republic. It has been suggested Romania could forge arrangements or alliances with Bulgaria, the former states of Austria-Hungary, the nationalist government in Ukraine, Greece, Crimea and so on. Will Romania remain neutral and isolated, or will it join the alliance system?

[Lumine]

Japan:

1.- Welcome, Prince Saionji. The past years have seen you recover from the crisis that almost caused the collapse of the government, but the balance of power remains a thing to be considered in today’s Japan. With Seiyukai dominant on Parliament you have a safe base from which to act to, and an audience has been scheduled with Hara Takasi and His Majesty regarding the policies for the year. What will you do?

2.- Disaster has struck Kyoto as a powerful earthquake (known as Kita Tango) causes major damage. Losses have been estimated in 3,000 deaths and more than 7,000 injured, and while no major industry has been hit many have been left homeless. Will the government seek outside help or take matters personally?

3.- The internal situation in China has taken a turn for the worse as the Kuomintang and the Communist Party seem close to civil war. Despite both sides being openly anti-Japanese, some believe this presents a chance to regain influence and leverage in Chinese politics. Will Japan act in any regarding this internal conflict?

France:

1.- As another year of the Cross of Fire government passes, the economic question remains open. With rearmament programs and social measures having restored the French economy to give it considerable strength, the Economic Ministry presents two alternatives: ramp up military spending to fully rearm France (which could very well cause a conflict) or lower military spending to focus on economic development and defuse potential tension. What will you do?

2.- While efforts to mobilize the French youth have been successful, some say the time has come to take a more aggressive approach, making participation in the party youth compulsory or even mandatory to indoctrinate the next generation and solidify your hold on power. Will you proceed with these plans? Take another route?

3.- Pierre Laval, your former ally in the struggle to become Prime Minister, has come to you with a proposition. Laval believes that despite the territorial gains of Italy against France in the Great War an alliance with Italy is not only desirable, but possible due to the strong catholic support in both regimes. Laval has also asked to be named Foreign Minister, believing he can put his skill and reduce the isolation of France.

Italy:

1.- With the dissolution of the Chamber of Deputies causing a good deal of dissent in the country, a special meeting of the Imperial Council and the College Cardinals has been called in Rome. It is time to plan ahead for the next months.

2.- The situation in the People’s Republic of Spain remains complicated as Catholicism is harshly repressed and areas like Navarre seem on the brink of revolt, not to mention the former Spanish King annoys you daily with pleas to do something about Spain. War is out of the question, but perhaps the Pope could be of help?

3.- While Italian positions in Libya remain strong in the coastline, the Senoussi tribes and the desert Bedouins still control the interior and remain a source for trouble. Some say the resources needed to expand the lands controlled in Libya would be wasted there, and others believe the natives and tribes can be easily overpowered. What will you do?

China:

1.- Matters have grown increasingly complicated after your outmaneuvered the Communists and took the office of Prime Minister. Li Dazhao often denounces you on his speeches and makes constant calls for a general election, even as assassinations and bombings become daily. How will you deal with the Communists?

2.- Despite the Chinese Army remaining of a large amount of conscripts, its quality still leaves much to be desired. Your cabinet is divided on where to seek military support for further modernization, France, Germany and the United Kingdom coming up as the more likely options. Will you proceed with army modernization? If so, will it be through national methods or Westerner influence?

3.- Despite a campaign sponsored by the Emperor managing to severely reduce opium addiction in China, it seems new shipments of opium are being produced in Shanghai under the zone of British administration. The Secret Police believes the British Government to have no involvement in the affair, but the source seems large and addiction threatens to become a problem. Will you react to this?

[Lumine]

Ottoman Empire:

1.- Evening, Minister. Recent reports by the police and the security services report that over the past few months the popular support for the current regime seems to be dwindling, even if the economy has remained stable. What measures will the Empire pursue this year, and do you have any plans to enforce your personal popularity?

2.- Emissaries from Bosnia-Hercegovina and Albania have arrived to the Palace today to present their respects to you and the Sultan. Going into serious matters, both have proposed the possibility of an arrangement with the Empire to receive financial and military aid, as well as support against potential aggression in the Balkans. Alas, this might be seen as a hostile gesture by Greece, Italy and the Magyar Republic. What will you do?

3.- Controversy has arisen in the army as some Turkish officers accuse Armenian officers (and soldiers of different ethnicities) of enticing treason against the Sultan. Some believe this is a chance to purge the army from disloyal elements and ban Armenians from service, while others see this as a false accusation. Will you act on it?

Germany:

1.- A new Government, a new era for Germany. Braun, Stresemann and the President of the Reichstag have come today to the Reich Chancellery building, asking for the legislative priorities of the year now that the honeymoon period has ended. What is Germany to do?

2.- Calls for aid have been issued by the so called “Government of German Volga”, the rump state of German emigrates that have carved an unstable ethnic realm of their own. Many in cabinet (particularly the SPD) advise against actions that could risk conflict in Russia as the state doesn’t look stable, but conservatives in the Reichstag launch furious tirades against the abandonment of the “German brothers in the middle of conflict”. What shall be done?

3.- A curious meeting took place today in your office, as two known politicians and generals have come to offer their services. Franz von Papen, former head of the Intelligence Service and now head of the right wing of Zentrum as a Reichstag Deputy, and Colonel Kurt von Schleicher, darling of the General Staff. Both have requested positions inside the government promising to be of use, although neither Stresemann nor Braun have a positive opinion on them.

Russia:

1.- Your government now controls Moscow and, armed with a large and well trained force, it stands as the strongest faction in Russia for the time being. The Government, however, is split. General Wrangel believes the time is right to strike against another of the warlord or revolutionary states, whereas Milyukov  advises against hostilities reminding you that the Russian economy is far from strong. What will be done?

2.- The Duma has gathered to humbly ask for your presence and that of the cabinet, and to discuss matters pertaining this year. Will the government enact any particular policies as we move forward in the conflict to cement control over the land and secure further stability?
3.- Despite losses taken in the war, financial experts have detected that large amounts of the fortune of Prince Yusupov of Crimea remain in some cities under government control. The expropriation of those reserves could aid the war effort, but cause an incident with Crimea and by extension the Ottomans. Will you act on that?

Crimea:

1.- Evening, Prince Yusupov. A complicated meeting took place today between you and your military commanders, as they denounce the limitations on Crimea placed by the Ottoman Empire as your nominal overlord. Mainly, they protest the inability to have a navy or an air force given the rise of the Provisional Government and the hostility Ukraine shows to your lands. 
   
2.- While the Ottomans remain a strong ally, some believe Crimea would benefit from having other friends and other channels of communication. Some point to the Balkans, some to Germany, some even to the other generals with warlord states of their own. What will you do?

[Lumine]

WAR RESTRICTIONS:

-War declarations are FORBIDDEN for players, whether against another player or against NPC countries. The only country authorized to wage war this turn is the Russian Provisional Government. If you declare war while not having authorization, I'll retcon it and will not acknowledge it. This will change in due time, but I'm not giving dates so you don't prepare in exact advance.

The game is on.

[Lumine]

(OOC: Do I control the eastern part of the Red Sea? I can't tell with the colors o_0)

You control Somalia and Eritrea, but I changed the map to make it clearer (I also changed the color of Hejaz and made Spain red per Spamage's wishes):

[Lumine]

Is Canada under China rule?

These questions go in the other thread, but no. Canada is independent, it has chosen to have George V as monarch but a treaty with the US forbids Canada returning to the Commonwealth.

[Lumine]

If Spain and Italy agree to a peace conference in Germany, I'll open a thread for those purposes.

[Lumine]

End of Early 1927:

Map Changes:
-Carlist uprising in Navarre, Alfonsist uprising in Spanish Morocco and the Canary Islands.
-Chinese Communist Party declares war on Prime Minister Chiang, takes several provinces.
-McAdoo government-in-exile establishes itself in Guantanamo Bay.
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In the News:

Chinese Communists revolt in China:

Following a series of bizarre announcements by Prime Minister Chiang Kai-Shek to the Chinese Communist Party and his badly received apology to the Japanese Empire (which led to anti-Japanese demonstrations in Beijing and other key cities), Li Dazhao has openly denounced the Kuomintang Government as corrupt and infiltrated by the Japanese, and openly called for a revolt. Seizing on the best units of the ICA moving onto Shanghai, Dazhao has seized Hunan and Jiangxi provinces to establish a Chinese Soviet of his own in the city of Nanchang. As of this date, other provinces and isolated ICA units have joined the revolt, Emperor Guangxu reported to be furious.

Spain and Portugal thrown into Civil War:

With the international crisis caused by Spain's de-christianization policies on its highest point, two simultaneous revolts have exploded on the People's Republic of Spain. In Navarre, Generals Mola and Varela have plotted a coup with the Carlist movement led by Victor Pradera, and as a result the whole Basque Country and Navarre has risen against Besteiro to proclaim Jaime, Duke of Madrid, as the Carlist King Jaime III. In the meantime, the Spanish Army of Morocco and the Canary Islands garrison has revolted in a Junta led by Generals Orgaz and Kindelan, proclaiming Alfonso XIII true King. An unforeseen consequence of this has been the explosive uprising of revolutionary movements in Portugal, forcing King Luis Filipe to declare martial law to attempt to contain the revolt.

Pope launches "Second Reconquista"

In response to the Iberian Crisis, Pope Alexander IX (the War Pope) has declared a "Second Reconquista" of Spain, calling on Catholic volunteers from the world to form an army and fight the equivalent of a Crusader against Julian Besteiro and the People's Republic of Spain. However, the pro-Catholic and monarchist forces face a complicated situation, as there are now two kings declaring for the Spanish throne. As of today, a Catholic Volunteer Army is being formed outside Rome, and is looking for an overall commander.

USA institutes a blockade of Cuba:

Following attempts by General MacArthur to obtain the surrender of the McAdoo government and the entrance of Cuba into the USA, Havana has soundly rejected his overtures and denounced him as an imperialistic tyrant. With the Cuban Government granting Guantanamo Bay for President McAdoo to install his government and thousands of Southern exiles joining his side, the USA has enforced a full blockade of the island of Cuba. With Latin America charging the USA as an aggressor, the Cuban Government and the USA Government in exile have openly asked the European Powers for aid.

Prince Carol of Romania found dead:

A summer visit to Crimea has turned into tragedy as Prince Carol of Romania and his wife have died in different, yet suspicious events. The Prince's wife, Miss Lambrino, fell suddenly ill with a fever and died after three days. His grief-stricken husband was found inside a tunnel two days later, his head blown open by a gunshot wound. Some have described it as a suicide, others suspect a murder. Romanian politicians are asking for an immediate investigation on the affair, and a group of rabid republicans have been arrested after denouncing the Tsar for supposedly being behind the situation.

Wars, Economy and Popularity:

Ongoing Wars:

Russian Civil War:
(Various Russian states)
Ceasefire Phase (no current hostilities)

Chinese Civil War:
(Chinese Empire v. Chinese Communist Party)
Starting Phase (Communists seize several provinces)

Spanish Civil War:
(People's Republic of Spain v. Carlist and Alfonsist Rebels)
Starting Phase (uprisings in Morocco and Navarre)

Popularity Ratings:

Prime Minister Alexander Kerensky: High
President Francois de la Rocque: High
Prime Minister Winston Churchill: High
Chancellor Wilhelm Marx: High
Prince Saionji Kinmochi: Medium
Emperor Victor Emmanuel III: Medium
Prince Felix Yusupov: Medium
Minister of War Enver Pasha: Medium
Tsar Nicholas I of Romania: Low
CiC General Douglas MacArthur: Low
General Secretary Julian Besteiro: Low
Prime Minister Chiang Kai Shek: Very Low

Economic Ratings:

Republic of France: Strong
German Empire: Strong
United Kingdom: Strong
Japanese Empire: Strong
Kingdom of Italy: Moderate
Ottoman Empire:  Moderate
People's Republic of Spain: Moderate
Kingdom of Romania: Moderate
Crimea: Moderate
United States of America: Moderate
Provisional Government of Russia: Weak
Chinese Empire: Weak

[Lumine]

Current Armies:

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[Lumine]

Turn Two: Late 1927

General Secretary Julian Besteiro, can he win the Civil War in Spain?

USA:

1.- Your inauguration speech has brought mixed results, the more concerning one being that of the economy. Initially welcomed by many conservatives and business owners, the abolition of so many taxes has put the government on the road to a major deficit as more borrowing is necessary, and the resulting concerns place doubt on the fragile economic stability of the USA. Trade deals and the growth of hemp are helping, but the government will have to choose between running debt or finding other sources for money.

2.- General Pershing has proven surprisingly effective in rooting out KKK volunteers, dozens being jailed and others being executed in gunfights or by firing squad. The respite this could have brought was lost with your reckless decision to desegregate the military, which not only has achieved large scale criticism of your person between army circles, but place the American South in a state close to a revolt against the state military governments (it has, however, given you good standing in New England, the African American community and the more reformist part of the NSC). Be extremely careful.

3.- Cuba has rejected your overtures to join as a state, proclaiming they will never yield their independence. McAdoo has even set a government in Guantanamo, being joined by enough volunteers before the blockade was put in place to form a few units of his own. Can you put an end to the stand-off with Cuba and the McAdoo government in exile?

Spain:

1.- On one side, your economic and domestic policies prove popular with large sectors of the Spanish society, particularly on education coverage, nationalization and employment announcements. Alas, that good will was thrown out of the window by your aggressiveness against Catholicism and, ironically, by your policy to have children taken away to be educated in other regions, which has enraged middle-class families to no end. With the Spanish society almost irreversely split between two sides, will you heal the divide or crush it?

2.- Encouraged by foreign support and the Pope's launch of a Crusade, the Carlists have revolted in Navarre with an entire army division, and the Pro-Alfonso XIII forces have captured Morocco and the three division strong Army of Africa. The enemy is evidently armed with foreign weapons and currency, but you still have the Navy and most of the Air Force and Army. In that scenario, your generals offer two roads to take: A.- Mobilize the population and field a large army, but one of dubious loyalty due to resentment against the regime. Or B.- Field revolutionary militia units to have an army not as well trained or armed, but truly loyal to the regime.

3.- The revolution has begun in Portugal, with uprisings in several cities as King Luis Filipe and his government try to fight the rebels back with French weapons. Will you risk an event greater international incident by meddling on the Portuguese Civil War as you face a war of your own?

United Kingdom:

1.- The Foreign Minister reports his great concern at the situation developing in China, with the Chinese Imperial Army placing quarantine in trade in Shanghai to big losses to British merchants as they suspect opium smuggling comes from them. The parties seem divided on the issue, some willing to launch an investigation, others demanding China to be taught a lesson.

2.- Reports on the welfare state expansion have been prepared, including improvement of worker's living conditions and wages, healthcare measures, even nationalizations of key industries. While many of this proves very popular with the public, a welfare state is anathema to a large part of your Parliamentary Party, that threatens revolt if you go too far. What will you do?

3.- Negotiations in Ireland appear to have stalled. Unionists in Ulster and other parts of Northern Ireland have hailed the government for taking a stand to support them (to great reception by your cabinet), but politicians in the south of Ireland remain opposed to Home Rule and the separation of the island, demanding full independence. It seems really hard to find a suitable compromise as time goes on, and the army believes some weapons might be entering Ireland somehow.

Romania:

1.- The demise of Prince Carol has reflected badly on your person, your grace. The more vocal republicans charge you with having played a part, and many remain wary of the role played by the notoriously corrupt Crimean government. The Prime Minister has come to ask your permission for a full investigation on the matter.

2.- The economy appears to be surging through a combination of trade measures and your own protectionist measures to promote inner consumption. Alas, Ukraine and Bulgaria have formally complained that those protectionist measures make it hard for them to compete in good standing, and request them to be suspened to let the current trade agreements in full place.

3.- Military research seems to be productive in the modernization of the Romanian Army, but a lot of work is yet to be done. The General Staff recommends a mission from another large power to aid on the matter, as well as making the Romanian Army follow the training and weaponry style of one of those powers.

[Lumine]

Japan:

1.- Despite the harm done by the earthquake, the government's response proved efficient and dealing with the damage, leading to a minor surge in the popularity of you and your cabinet. Recently crowned Emperor Takahito (whose coronation was a resounding success despite the attempt on Tsar Alexei's life) has sent his personal congratulations after insisting on an unprecedented tour to the area.

2.- The Japanese economy is walking out of lethargy due to major trade deals just signed, making Tokyo and the largest ports of Japan rather busy indeed. Alas, benefits from closer cooperation to China seem endangered with the beginning of a civil war against the Imperial Regime (Prince PuYi protested the actions of Chiang by refusing to attend Takahito's coronation). Be watchful.

2.- The formation of a commission to consider some degree of Home Rule for the colonies has taken a turn for the worse, after two prominent deputies were found dead on a street in Yokohama. The Military Policy suspects militaristic elements inside the army to be responsible, but there's no concrete evidence. In the meantime, the commission believes it would be wiser to postpone their work.

France:

1.- Abbe Lemire has taken up his ministry with ambitious zeal, moving to pass several urgent social reforms that have endeared him to workers. Alas, Lemine is on a collision course with General d'Esperey and the more pro-military members of the cabinet, as both defend the need for either large economic and social investment and the military surge, seeing both as unsustainable if taken at the same time. Be careful.

2.- Laval is bitterly disappointed at not being appointed Foreign Minister, but has taken up his embassy in Italy to a large effect, softening potential issues and becoming a favorite of the Pope and the exiled King Alfonso. Some elements are bitter with Italy for the Great War, but if they could see some concessions from their new ally they could be appeased.

3.- Your aid to Portugal has proved effective in aiding King Luis Filipe in his recent struggle against the Portuguese revolutionaries, but with his military being unruly he is facing serious trouble at putting down the revolt. Having sent desperate calls to aid to Paris, how will you assist the Portuguese?

Italy:

1.- So far, the Senate and the College of Cardinals have worked rather well, with a complicated issue coming up at the last moment. A group of Italian Cardinals have protested that due to the still large amount of foreign cardinals said group has inordinate influence on Italian domestic policy, while others reject the notion that the College of Cardinals needs to be formed solely by Italians. With the Pope finding it very hard to compromise with both groups, what will you do?

2.- The revolt in Spain is on, as both Morocco and Navarre revolt. There is, however, a complicated matter. Pressed on by an unknown figure, King Alfonso XIII has asked to be allowed to fly to Morocco with the Catholic Volunteer Army, requesting the aid of the Italian Fleet to transport his forces to the mainland. At the same time, representatives of Jaime III and the Carlist Government ask for urgent support towards Navarre. What will you do?

3.- The Italian Imperial Petroleum Cartel has begun work, but it will take a long time before their work can prove successful. Tunis seems under control by the Italian Army, but rumours spread of a revolt being plotted in Benghazi and Tripoli, probably being funded by a foreign power. Be careful.

China:

1.- China is in crisis, Prime Minister. Your ill-advised apology to Japan has inflamed anti-Japanese sentiment across the country (Prince PuYi becoming very popular after refusing to attend Takahito's coronation), and your threat to Li Dazhao has forced him to openly revolt against the government with several divisions taking his side. If you do not act soon and effectively, the civil war could spread and spell the doom of the Empire.

2.- Your best troops place Shanghai in quarantine now, an act that enraged foreign representatives and merchants. Some believe tension should be defused, and others pres you to escalate and order a boycott on British merchandise. What will you do?

[Lumine]

Ottoman Empire:

1.- Your popularity rises as the economy shows encouraging signs of improvement, all thanks to trade deals, foreign investment and even an increase in petroleum sales. It will take a time to concrete itself, but experts believe the Ottoman economy could see an excellent performance if this trend continues. Congratulations!

2.- Contacts with the nations in Caucasus have yielded both good and bad results. The Cossacks have firmly expressed their unwillingness to deal with Istanbul as of now, but the minor regions are willing to enter a pact provided their receive both vital investments and the protection of their autonomy and independence against the Cossacks and the Russian Warlords. Similarly, Bosnia and Albania have entered a pact with the Empire, a move that has been denounced in a very hostile way by Bulgaria, Greece and the Magyar Republic.

3.- While your initial shipment of Armenians to Crimea (some 20,000) was a success, the mysterious leaking of your (so says the unconfirmed rumours) plans to relocate them and other minorities to Libya or Algeria has brought large scale protests across the north of the Empire and the impossibility of further relocation. Armenians and others remain peaceful in their protests in fear of the Empire, but the issue is causing a headache.

Germany:

1.- Scandal on the Reichstag! While your move to employ von Papen proved very successful as he was elected PPL to Zentrum, von Papen has used his intelligence background to uncover a conspiracy. It has been discovered several coalition MP's (3 from Zentrum, 1 from DDP, 1 from SPD) had been bribed by a foreign power in an attempt to influence German domestic policy. Calls have been issued for you to take a firm stand on the issue, Papen advising the expulsion of those bribed Deputies.

2.- The Autobahn project has yielded excellent result so far, and while a long term scheme many believe it will have a positive effect on the growth of the German economy. Now that there is a surplus, many question whether it should be reinvested or sent to social spending or military projects.

3.- General Alexander von Falkenhausen, commander of the Qingdao garrison in China has expressed his concern over the start of the war against the Kuomintang government. Falkenhausen requests an infantry division and a support fleet to make sure no harm comes to the base, while proposing via Schleicher that Germany takes the change to support the current government against the communists.

Russia:

1.- Wrangel and the Russian General Staff report back, all arrangements are made. Going by your instructions, the Russian Armed Forces are ready to deploy.

2.- While your visit to Japan was a remarkable success, it was also a much dangerous move. Two assassination attempts took place, one on the sea trip and one in Tokyo itself, both attackers being shot dead before they could make a move. Wrangel suspects Kolchak or the other warlords, Milyutin suspects a large power.

3.- Initial economic moves have been well received, aiding the Russian economy despite the troubled times to keep up with the large military. That said, officers at the Economic Ministry insist that unless Russia recovers its larger sources of natural resources and, particularly, oil, the Russian economy will not fully take off.

Crimea:

1.- Expansion on the Crimean military begins, the army and the Czech Legion pleased by the announcements. Crimea has begun to acquire a small air force, but to form a navy will require that you personally buy foreign vessels as Sebastopol cannot currently build them (the harbor remains damaged from the war).

2.- As Casinos, resorts, red light districts and so on expand through Sebastopol and Crimea, religious leaders are horrified and the masses look uneasy, but the revenue is astounding. Crimea is slowly beginning to swim in foreign currency, and your money reserves are soon begin to refill as your furtune in Russia slowly returns.

3.- The death of Prince Carol threatens to cause diplomatic strife with prominent figures in Romania, who demand an investigation. Will you take steps to find out what exactly happened to the Prince?

[Lumine]

WAR RESTRICTIONS:

-War declarations are FORBIDDEN for players against other players. The only war declarations authorized are those between a player and an NPC country, provided you have a credible casus belli and I grant permission.

WAR MOVES:

-Spain and China moves for the Spanish and Chinese Civil Wars for July-September 1927 must be in by Wednesday Night. Their moves for October-December 1927 must be in by Saturday Night.

[Lumine]

War Rules:

1.- Turns: We will play wars with turns of three months, which means, two war turns for every main turn in the game. You send your orders for the first War Turn, I simulate on a mid turn update, you send the orders for the second War Turn, they are in when the turn ends. If we are fighting a WORLD WAR, we will probably play three War Turns per one turn.

2.- Movilization: You decide whether to fight wars with your professional standing army, or whether to arm militia, or enact a general or a partial mobilization of your population. Each of those has consecuences (military and others), so think it through.

3.- Moves: Pretty explanatory, you tell me where the fleets, divisions and air units go depending on the context I provide. I then simulate. If you do not send moves, I assume your troops take defensive positions and take no initiative.

[Lumine]

Chinese Civil War: July-September 1927

War Info:

Chinese Empire:

-Chinese Army: 42 divisions (34 inf, 8 cav)
-Chinese Navy: 2 BB, 4 CR, 10 DD, 4 SUB
-Chinese Airforce: 7 Fighter Wings, 5 Bombing Wings, 4 Transport Wings.

Communist China:

-Communist Army: 16 divisions (9 inf, 2 cav, 5 militia)
-Communist Navy: No navy.
-Communist  Airforce: 3 Fighter Wings, 1 Bombing Wings.

Other Info:

-Chinese Imperial Army has deployed five divisions near Shanghai, others free to deploy as needed be.

[Lumine]

Spanish Civil War: July-September 1927

War Info:

People's Republic of Spain:

-Spanish Army: 21 divisions (9 inf, 4 cav, 8 mil)
-Spanish Navy: 2 BB, 7 CR, 20 DD, 12 SUB
-Spanish Airforce: 5 Fighter Wings, 1 Bombing Wings, 2 Transport Wings.

Carlist Spain:
-Carlist Army: 5 divisions (1 inf, 4 mil)
-Carlist Navy: None.
-Carlist Airforce: 1 Fighter Wing, 1 Bombing Wing.

Alfonsist Spain:
-Alfonsist Army: 3 divisions (3 inf)
-Alfonsist Navy: None.
-Alfonsist Air Force: 1 Fighter Wing.

Other Info:

-A Catholic Volunteer Army is being formed in Italy. It will be deployable (and I will reveal its strength) by September 1927.

[Lumine]

Chinese Civil War: Update

Overall:

The beginning of the Chinese Civil War caught the government in Beijing completely unprepared as their best troops were deployed to the Shanghai front, and the Chiang government proved completely incapable of dealing with the crisis during its first weeks. With the central government barely sending orders at all several generals began to toy with the possibility of separating from Beijing, and a coalition of warlord aspirants in the ICA and the Muslim separatists of Sinkiang revolted to form a state of their own in the east.

Increasingly demoralized by the lack of orders and the rapid growth of the Chinese Revolutionary Army in rural areas, several units have deserted as the Communist leadership expands its control over their separate Soviets, preparing a large march into Nanjing and Shanghai with their best units. Unless the Chiang Government reacts swiftly to contain the uprising, there's credible fears the Imperial government might desintegrate into warlord states as the Communists make their unexpected and unlikely advance as a force to be reckoned with in China.

War Info:

Chinese Empire:

-Chinese Army: 39 divisions (32 inf, 7 cav)
-Chinese Navy: 2 BB, 4 CR, 10 DD, 4 SUB
-Chinese Airforce: 6 Fighter Wings, 5 Bombing Wings, 4 Transport Wings.

Communist China:

-Communist Army: 21 divisions (10 inf, 2 cav, 9 militia)
-Communist Navy: No navy.
-Communist  Airforce: 4 Fighter Wings, 1 Bombing Wings.

[Lumine]

Spanish Civil War: Update

Overall:

Perhaps in contrast to the apparent collapse of the Imperial Government in China, the government of the People's Republic of Spain took immediate action to counter the uprising of different monarchist groups, calling for the mobilization of the nations's population into a large force while immediately planning for a counterattack. Due to their rapid response the Spanish Navy and Airforce collaborated to great effect (after crushing a mutiny of the navy officers) to organize an air-bridge from Morocco into the Canary Islands, crushing an entire Alfonsist division to retaking the islands to blockade the Army of Africa.

Alas, the planned offensive into Navarre stalled early. Despite a remarkable success in the initial weeks, a botched assassination attempt on Jaime III raised his profile and popularity, and as the Carlist Requetes fought bitterly thousands upon thousands of French catholic volunteers began to flood Northern Spain from the Pyrenees in extremely well-trained and well-armed fashion, overwhelming the initial offensive from Madrid and forcing a trench war across the Franco-Spanish border. With the monarchist groups receiving a flood of financial and military support a second wave of uprisings took place, with the Carlists seizing power in parts of Galicia and the Alfonsists taking Seville and Zaragoza with support from deserters from the new Spanish's People's Army, many of their recruits proving unreliable. Other uprisings, like those in Andalusia, Valencia and Barcelona, were crushed as the population took arms with the Government and the Spanish Revolutionary Party.

As October begins, it is clear both sides are receiving large amounts of foreign support of all sorts, the Carlists receiving the most help, followed by the Government and then the Alfonsists. General Secretary Besteiro now has a large army of conscripts to fight off the Catholic volunteers and rebels, but it remains to be seen how the course of the war will follow.

War Info:

People's Republic of Spain:
-Spanish Army: 53 divisions (31 inf, 7 cav, 15 mil)
-Spanish Navy: 2 BB, 7 CR, 20 DD, 12 SUB
-Spanish Airforce: 5 Fighter Wings, 1 Bombing Wings, 2 Transport Wings.

Carlist Spain:
-Carlist Army: 16 divisions (4 inf, 12 mil)
-Carlist Navy: None.
-Carlist Airforce: 2 Fighter Wing, 2 Bombing Wing.

Alfonsist Spain:
-Alfonsist Army: 7 divisions (2 inf, 5 mil)
-Alfonsist Navy: None.
-Alfonsist Air Force: 1 Fighter Wing.

[Lumine]

A Catholic Volunteer Army of seven infantry divisions and a cavarly one is now available in Rome for deployment of the Spanish rebels.

[Lumine]

Chinese Civil War: Update II

Overall:

While it seemed for a moment that the Communist march on Nanjing and Shanghai was to be an imminent triumph, the Chiang government finally reacted in military terms. Brokering a truce with Li Dazhao for some brief and unsuccessful peace negotiations (as the Communists refuse to any understanding with Chiang), enough time was created for the Imperial Chinese Army to mobilize to some degree, lauching offensives of their own on the smaller soviets while placing key units to prevent the march. The First Encirclement campaign lasted from late October to early December 1926, pitting young military prodigies Chen Yi from the Chinese Revolutionary Army and Zhang Xueliang as the master strategists. After several bloody battles, Xueliang bested Chen Yi and prevent collapse of the frontlines, a success complemented by the break up of several smaller soviets. Alas, the concentration of ICA forces allowed the Communists to begin an unexpected "race to the sea", with Guangdong as a secondary target. By the New Year, Communist forces overran ICA forces in the front and march at full speed towards the South China sea.

What could have been a chance to solidify the Chiang regime, however, turned into disaster on account of several ill-advised moves by the government in Beijing. Whereas the ordered blockade of Hong Kong and several public works initiatives were well recieved, the government instituted not only new taxes, but lower tariffs for Japan and price controls to agricultural goods, moves either damaging to the economy or to the popularity of the government. Furthermore, attempts to lead a government propaganda campaign in favor of Japan turned public opinion even more against Chiang, and while the Secret Police has prevented riots in the streets it is rumored the Chinese Parliament plans to issue a Vote of No Confidence on Premier Chiang, possibly with the Emperor's support. Foreign powers have chosen not to meddle, although the Germans have increased the Qingdao garrison, and Hong Kong has issued an immediate alert to the United Kingdom.

War Info:

Chinese Empire:

-Chinese Army: 51 divisions (42 inf, 10 cav)
-Chinese Navy: 2 BB, 4 CR, 10 DD, 4 SUB
-Chinese Airforce: 6 Fighter Wings, 5 Bombing Wings, 4 Transport Wings.

Communist China:

-Communist Army: 31 divisions (12 inf, 2 cav, 17 militia)
-Communist Navy: No navy.
-Communist  Airforce: 4 Fighter Wings, 1 Bombing Wings.

[Lumine]

Spanish Civil War: Update II

Overall:

Now having a large army to fight back the rebellion despite the evident supply of arms and volunteers from foreign powers, General Secretary Besteiro did not waste his time. The first to suffer the fist of the Spanish People's Army where the Alfonsist strongholds in Seville and Zaragoza, which had been expanding without managing to raise a lot of volunteers. Faced against a force that doubled their numbers, they struggled in the final months of 1927 before facing collapse in Mid-December, leaving several isolated units fighting for their lives as the main Alfonsist bases and cities were captured in bloody urban fighting. The success of the Spanish government was complemented by the projected arrival of the Catholic Volunteer Army from Italy, which barely had a fleet to speak on to launch landing operation. November saw several naval skirmishes across the Balearic Sea that sunk many transports and caused carnage among Catholic troops, forcing them to land in Carlist Catalonia.

With the Spanish Fleet moving across the Mediterranean to prevent landings and the Alfonsist Army all but crushed, the main battle was fought across Northern Spain between the insurgent Carlist forces (complemented by the Catholic Army) and the massed forces of the SPA, placing as much as 40 divisions between both sides fighting for their lives. With the Spanish government starting to recieve large amounts of weapons and ammunition from one or several great powers their advance was certain, the Carlists suffering several tactical defeats that forced them to push back the frontlines, even as they managed to make contact with most of the pockets. The war is swinging to Besteiro's side, but the stand-off in Northern Spain remains brutal.

War Info:

People's Republic of Spain:
-Spanish Army: 56 divisions (31 inf, 7 cav, 18 mil)
-Spanish Navy: 2 BB, 7 CR, 18 DD, 11 SUB
-Spanish Airforce: 5 Fighter Wings, 1 Bombing Wings, 2 Transport Wings.

Carlist Spain:
-Carlist Army: 24 divisions (9 inf, 15 mil) - Includes remnants of the Catholic Army
-Carlist Navy: None.
-Carlist Airforce: 2 Fighter Wing, 2 Bombing Wing.

Alfonsist Spain:
-Alfonsist Army: 4 divisions (2 inf, 2 mil)
-Alfonsist Navy: None.
-Alfonsist Air Force: None.

[Lumine]

End of Late 1927:

Map Changes:
-Spanish Civil War ongoing, Carlists consolidate terrain and Alfonsists go down.
-Chinese Civil War sees territory losses and wins on both sides.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

In the News:

Crisis in Bulgaria!

A truly disturbing situation has erupted in the Balkans a few days before the New Year, as several secret operatives were found trying to sabotage facilities in the Dardanelles, Istanbul and the European side of the Ottoman Empire. Ottoman Military Police has identified the culprits as Bulgarian operatives, something which the Bulgarian Tsar angrily denounces as a false-flag operation. Bosnia and Albania have taken side with the Ottomans in charging Bulgaria with the crime, while Greece has warned that it will defend Bulgaria in case of foreign aggression.

War in Northern Russia:

Breaking protocol by not issuing a declaration of war, the Russian Army of General Wrangel has invaded the People's Republic of Archangelsk under orders by the Kerensky Government and the Tsar, taking Kamenev's revolutionaries by surprise. Reports are unclear due to a Russian blockade of Archangelsk, but it rumored that the People's Republic is rapidly collapsing. More to follow.

Ongoing drama in Sebastopol:

Despite speeches by the Romanian Government designed to bolster public confidence on the government, the matter of the death of Prince Carol continues to go sour. While the investigation commission tries to gather evidence in Crimea, the Romanian escort of Carol remains in strict Crimean custody, and the Crimean press launches tirade after tirade denouncing Romania and Tsar Ncholas, something which has not gone unnoticed in Bucharest. It has been established with forensic evidence that Prince Carol did not shoot himself and was killed, whereas the death of Miss Lambrino is still unclear.

Chancellor Wilhelm Marx recieves Nobel Peace Prize:

Following heated debate at the Nobel Committee over whom to award this year's prize, it was decided that the matter that has most threatened peace in Europe, and indeed, the world, is that of the Spanish Civil War. While many different Heads of State have tried to mediate, it was decided that German Chancellor Wilhelm Marx (Zentrum) had been the most sincere and consistent (in the public view) in trying to broker a compromise. With this award the German Government can expect a large boost in confidence. Well done, Chancellor!

Luis Filipe of Portugal crushes revolution:

Despite looking increasingly weakened by internal strife, the Portguese regime of King Luis Filipe announced today the defeat of the so called "Portuguese Revolution", an uprising that begun six months ago. While it seemed Lisbon could realistically fall to the rebels, the refusal of Spain to intervene in their favor and the large amounts of military aid lent by the de la Rocque regime in France saved the Government, allowing them to destroy the bulk of the revolutionary forces. While terrorism and guerrilla war is still taking place in the Portuguese countryside, Portugal has averted falling to a left-wing revolution.

Cuba beginning to suffer humanitarian crisis:

Even as the MacArthur regime intensifies propaganda to force the surrender of Cuba, the Havana government refuses to yield. More than propping up the US Government-In-Exile, the matter has turned into one of natonal pride, with the island refusing to be part of the United States and insisting on their independence. Alas, the blockade is causing large shortages in Cuba, with famine being feared as a realistic choice. As Latin America turns against Washington and denounces MacArthur as a tyrant, the Cuban Government has written a plea to the other great powers, desperatedly asking for aid in times of crisis.

Wars, Economy and Popularity:

Ongoing Wars:

Russian Civil War:
(Various Russian states)
War between Provisional Government and People's Republic of Archangelsk

Chinese Civil War:
(Chinese Empire v. Chinese Communist Party)
Communist China suffers setbacks, is still expanding

Spanish Civil War:
(People's Republic of Spain v. Carlist and Alfonsist Rebels)
Alfonsists on the ropes, Carlists and the Government fight all-out war

Popularity Ratings:

Prime Minister Alexander Kerensky: High
President Francois de la Rocque: High
Chancellor Wilhelm Marx: High
Prince Saionji Kinmochi: Medium
Prime Minister Winston Churchill: Medium
Prince Felix Yusupov: Medium
Minister of War Enver Pasha: Medium
Tsar Nicholas I of Romania: Low
Emperor Victor Emmanuel III: Low
CiC General Douglas MacArthur: Low
General Secretary Julian Besteiro: Low
Prime Minister Chiang Kai Shek: Very Low

Economic Ratings:

German Empire: Strong
United Kingdom: Strong
Japanese Empire: Strong
Republic of France: Moderate
Kingdom of Italy: Moderate
Ottoman Empire:  Moderate
Kingdom of Romania: Moderate
Crimea: Moderate
United States of America: Moderate
People's Republic of Spain: Weak
Provisional Government of Russia: Weak
Chinese Empire: Very Weak

[Lumine]

Current Armies:

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