King Johan looked out on the setting sun, his eyes gliding over the ocean and The Lively port below. *sigh* he feelt so alone... With equestria having a rival to his throne that wishes nothing but to turn olenia into a equestrian pupet and crysalis and her queens having showed just what they are willing to do..... And as the low sun danced across the sea... he truly feelt alone
Name: Equestria
Government: Monarchy
Capital: Canterlot
Ideology: Harmony
Head of State: Princess Celestia
Race: Pony
Faction: United Ponies Alliance
Population: 49.54 Million
Equestria is a proud and ancient realm, risen from the union of three tribes, it has remained a bastion of harmony and prosperity for a thousand years, it's influence is felt across the planet. It also had a very narrow escape from the Storm King and everyone, whether they want to admit it or not, knows it. It was the skill of Twilight Sparkle and her friends as well as a decent bit of luck that let the ancient power survive where it could have been torn down and plundered for its riches
Faced with calls of inaction and irrelevance in the face of her Most Faithful Students exploits, Princess Celestia is stepping once more into the fray of governance, determined to guide Equestria through a swiftly changing world, faced with the newly united Changeling Lands to the north, the new king of Olenia to the west and calls of independence in Equestria's colony to the east she has her work cut out for her. But she's done it before, surely this time will be no different, right?
1. Arclight met with River Swirl to congratulate her on her hard fought victory. The OHS duties within the modern state is to make sure there is no election meddling. However, Arclight states his concerns about the communists and supremacists who have found themselves taking close to half the electorate in the election. Arclight, while not a harmonist, is most concerned with the future stability of the nation. The River Alliance Party, while taking the path of elections and politicking, are noted internationalists who want the Republic to fund communist movements across Griffonia and Equus and have a notable militant wing. And the National Popular Front is a supremacist reactionary party that, while not monarchist, yearns for the "glory days" of the River Principality and denounces the weakness of the current government. River Swirl is concerned about the aggressive policies of both parties and wishes to steer the republic away from that path. Arclight is on a similar page and proposes some changes to the current situation in the OHS. The department needs more ponies to keep watch on the militants and more powers in the departments hands to deal with any instability coming from within and outside the nation. River Swirl agrees with the department head and sets to work on policy.
The "Harmony and Stability Act of 1007" is submitted to the Parliament, which includes the following.
A. Expands the budget of the OHS to allow the department to hire more ponies, give improved benefits to draw in hires, expand current facilities for increased capacity, and buy/invest in technology that allows them to better conduct their state mission. This will put the budget to be approximately 1.5 million dollars or 150 million Republican Dinars.
B. Allowing OHS to cooperate with provincial police on information gathering and information sharing on militants and insurgents that threaten stability within the republic.
With her party holding close to a majority, the River Conservative Party's support, and her soundly won election; she hopes to pass it through without Nova Swirl's socialists interfering.
2. The River Republic has always been the most prosperous nation in the Riverlands. With its rivers that connect to the other nations and its capital, Rijekograd, being on the confluence of three great rivers; trade flows up and down into the nation. These navigable rivers were always a boon to the Republic, but it came with limitations. The further away from the navigable rivers, the less wealth flowed. Communication to inland settlements is dependent on old roads and in some places, like the highlands, there exists no roads. Whatever wealth is extracted comes from trading towns on the upper edges of the navigable parts of rivers and private railways that only connect to mines. River Swirl set to change this.
The River Railways Company Act of 1007, submitted to Parliament and does the following
A. Creates the state-owned railroad company officially named "Rijeke Zeleznice."
B. The company will be tasked with buying land for fair price; building and maintaining railways and stations to connect the cities and towns of the River Republic; Assisting with companies in using the new railroads, whether start-up funds to new railway transportation companies or helping in existing companies adjust their fleet to railway standards.
C. The standard-guage of the railways constructed will be 1435 mm.
D. The railways constructed will be used for both freight and passenger services.
E. The budget for the new company will be set at 2 billion Republican Dinars, or 20 million dollars.
With this new company, she hopes to connect the nation by iron roads and increase the capacity of the economy.
3. River Swirl was always big on education. She realized that not everypony was as lucky as her to get to go to one of the premier school for ponykind. And as a teacher she knew how few schools there were across the nation and is one issue that pushed her into politics. As of right now free schooling access for children has improved greatly across the nation but only the major towns and cities have schools. Rural areas are too poor, too far apart, or lack the population to justify opening school. As well, schooling isn't mandatory so children can go without an education especially those who work. River Swirl wants to solve this and proposed the following legislation
The National Schooling Act of 1007 states the following
A. Mandates that all children from age 6 attend school to the minimun age of 14.
B. The creation of the "Odjel Seoski Skole" (Department of Rural Schools) with a budget of 10 million dollars or 1 billion republican Dinar.
C. The Rural Department of Schools will be tasked with the construction, administration and staffing of school in rural counties.
D. The Rural Department of School will ensure rural schools are of similar quality of education to urban schools.
E. The Rural Department of Schools will have two half-month breaks, one during planting and another during harvest, to ensure that rural farming families aren't effected by loss of labour during critical periods. This splits the school year into three periods.
With this Act, River Swirl hopes to bring education to the rural ponies, ensure that all colts and fillies get a similar level of education nationwide, and hopefully end the problem of illiteracy that plagues a still sizable minority of the population.
4. Marshall Hector Lizzipan came to River Swirl to congratulate her on her victory. He sees her as the best path to stability in the republic and the Riverlands as a whole. However, being a military minded man and a good reason why River Swirl won, he feels he can ask a favor of the returning chancellor. The River Republic Army, while adequate in case of attacks from neighboring nations is not enough for a larger nation like Griffonia. Recruitment consists of volunteers with conscription only in cases of national emergency and war. As well, the bulk of the equipment is made up of surplus New Mareland and Lake City rifles with no set standard. With these factors, if a nation like Griffonia attacks and the Republic has to conscript, there won't be enough equipment of adequate standard to fight them off leaving them at a difficult position in war. With this in mind, he and River Swirl's parties works together to form legislation to help stymie this issue
The Military Improvement Act, known more as the Rifle Act mandates the following.
A. HorSe Produkt, the state-owned military equipment company, recieves an increased budget to 10 million or 1 billion republican dinars.
B. HorSe is tasked with blueprinting and producing a new standard rifle for the Republican Army. This rifle must be manufacture domestically for specific use in equipping the armed forces of the Republic. The rifle specification must be a repeating rifle, be a maximum barrel length of 850 millimeters, must be chambered to 7.92, have a minimum ammo capacity of 5 rounds, and must be made of materials manufactured withing the republic. Inspiration from foreign designs are permitted.
C. HorSe will expand its manufacturing capabilities in order to produce this new rifle alongside other assorted equipment used by the army.
With this act, one aspect of the Republican Military will be standardized and the nation will be more confident in its capabilities of defending itself.
All these assorted acts will be funded by budgetary surpluses, government issued bonds, and loans in that priority.
The city of Farbrook is the greatest city in the north , having grown rich from the fruits of trade. The territories of the hill-ponies are surrounded by mountains to the west and the south and by the extremely isolationist Arcturian Order in the north. This has resulted in a situation where almost all of their trade needs to be conducted trough Farbrook, which profited immensely from their monopoly on a coastline. Most of this trade is concentrated in the capital city of Farbrook, because of the decentralized nature of the farbrookian nation. Trade caravans that try to dodge the official tolls of Farbrook often find that every petty chief whose territory they cross will demand their own tolls.
The Port of Farbrook connects not only the hill-ponies to the wider world, it is usually seen as the gate to Greneclyf too. The few Traders not from Farbrook willing to brave the difficulties of trading with the changelings usually stop in Farbrook first, where they can find guides familiar with these creatures that are hardly understood by the mainland. Of course most of Greneclyfs trade is done with Farbrook, as most other nations don´t even have a diplomatic relationship with them as a result of a combination of obscurity and discrimination.
As a result Farbrook is a bustling city, which only got busier in recent months. The entire city is swept up in a bustle of activity, with the sounds produced by the construction site that would become precious dock space dominating the city. Nobody is idle, whether you help build the port, enlist as a soldiers in the newfangled "Farbrook army" or support the preparations to host not only the chiefs of Farbrook but delegations from multiple nations. Yet this highlighted the absolutly dominating position Farbrook holds in the nation with the same name, with many bright ponies from the countryside journeying towards the promise of steady work and a brighter future in the capital.
Chief Cenhelm was engrossed in his own work preparing for the Farbrook Conference and the Council of Chiefs following after it. The Farbrook Conference was already a gamble when he invited known factors in Greneclyf, Watertowns and Firtree. The addition of the Chancellor of the River Republic, River Swirl complicated the situation and turned a difficult political position into a minefield.
The Chief of the White Hooves, Hermane Gering did not disguise his contempt for the "cowardly Riverfoals" and denounced Cenhelms acceptance of River Swirls offer as capitulation towards the southern nation. He called for all northern creatures to reject the "southern imperialist menace" and stand united as one bloc, made great by the fight they undertake everyday just to defend their homes against nature, beasts and the monsters the southerners never see. His rhetoric appeals to many who feel left behind by the Riverlands rather fast industrialization and often contempt treatment of the northern tribes.
The leader of the NESP, Applethorn had used the sentiment towards the opposite position: She called for Farbrook to turn towards the River Republic and to mirror the Republics industrialization without succumbing to its problems by drawing inspiration from the politics of Nova Whirl and Caramel Haze. She found great success in this approach, swaying many ponies to her side that are not necessarily convinced by the need of a communist revolution but see the riverlands as the role model the nation of Farbrook should look up to. Using this newfound popularity she quickly cemented her position as leader of the North Eastern Socialist Party and sidelined Hempstand and his small fanatical following.
The Council of Chiefs would watch the Conference and its results closely and would certainly be strongly influenced by the position Farbrook would find itself thereafter. Cenhelm needs to be successful increasing cooperation with Farbrooks northern neighbors and can not allow himself to enter any unfavorable treaties with the River Republic, if he wants to impress the Chiefs and keep his current position.
Cenhelm has multiple goals in the Conference and would need to juggle between them carefully
Farbrook needs to act as the host and middleman between the different nations at the Conference, stopping conflicts as best as possible
Watertowns, Firtree, Greneclyf and Farbrook should draw closer together. Cenhelm hopes for a defensive alliance and a permanent forum to solve conflicts between these nations, drawing inspiration from the institutions of the River Coalition. He is willing to reduce barriers between their borders to encourage his western neighbors cooperation
The Changelings of Greneclyf need to face greater acceptance on the mainland and the attending leaders should support equality between the different races living in the east of Griffonia
Cenhelm sees the establishment of a trade deal with the River Republic as a great opportunity, but cannot allow river Swirl to divide the northern states. He will therefore insist on equal treatment for all northern nations and try to act as a counterweight to the diplomatic pressure the Republic can bring to the table by using his status as host of the conference
The River Republic has many technologies that are more advanced than the ones used by Farbrook. Getting republican help in modernizing Farbrook could be a great opportunity
Despite his thorough preparations the outcome of the Conference cannot be forecast. The other nations would have their own goals and demands and the presence of the River Republic would no doubt lead to unforeseen consequences that would have do be dealt with in the moment of the negotiations. Cenhelm can only hope for success, with both the fate of Farbrook and his own political career on the line.
River Diplomacy River Republic Messenger Pegasus, Priority Mail
River Swirl, secure in her position as Chancellor, got to working on one of the goals of her term. She was determined to make the River Coalition a more united and intertwined union of states rather than a pure defensive alliance. Being the center of the Riverlands, and being a stable democracy, she saw it as her duty to form a more harmonious union in the Riverlands to benefit everypony. With that, she set to work with diplomacy to various member-states as well as other non-coalition states.
To the Brave Chief Cenhelm of the Chiefdom of Farbrook @NSchwerte
I write to you after you receiving you proposal to send an envoy to the Council of Chiefs. I would like for you to know that I wish to personally attend the Council alongside an entourage of officials from my government, most notable being Marshal Lizzipan who is our most premier military leader. I hope that by attending personally I can establish diplomatic ties with each attending nation and open the doors to economic cooperation as well.
To the Grand Mayor Springtime Frost of the Republic of Lake City @Hadrian98
I write to you to discuss matters of defense. Your nation has always been the first fighters and have been instrumental in driving off griffon raiders and invaders. To work better in times of invasion, I would like for our militaries to stage exercises together so that we may better defend ourselves. I am sending a missive to Nimbusia as well to see if they are willing to participate in exercises. I am willing to allow the exercises to take place on River Republic land in the province of Neighretva. I hope these exercises will allow us to cooperate better in the defense of our nations and the Coalition as a whole.
To the the venerable Pegicles of the Democracy of Nimbusia @Hadrian98
I write to you to discuss martial matters. Your nation has always been one of warriors and has been the most stalwart defenders of the Riverlands. It was your nation that held the Griffonian army for days while the Riverlands mustered to drive them back. You have always been the strong shield of the Coalition. To better work together in times of invasion, I would like for our militaries to stage exercises together so that we may better defend ourselves. I have sent a letter to the Lake City as well to see if they are willing to participate in these exercises as well. I am willing to allow the exercises to take place on River Republic land in the province of Neighretva. I hope these exercises will allow us to cooperate better in the defense of our nations and the Coalition as a whole.
To the Respected King Grimhoof of Deponya @Hadrian98
I write to you to discuss the possibility of economic cooperation. You reign over vast tracts of rich land whose wealth is known to our merchants and capitalists. I know that your kingdom has been experiencing widespread poverty, an unfortunate turn of events. Which is why I propose an economic development treaty.
- Republican investors will fund all necessary purchases to set up industry within Desponyan cities and towns.
- Income taxes upon Republican built businesses will be decreased for a period of 3 years.
- Tariffs on goods between the River Republic and the Kingdom of Desponya will be lowered.
I hope these terms are agreeable to you. I hope that Desponya can experience greater prosperity in the future.
To the Wise Taoiseach Crimson Nic Heart of Ponaidhean @Hadrian98
I write to you to discuss the possibility of economic cooperation. Your ancient lands hold great wealth but have gone undeveloped in this time of industrialization. The River Republic is willing to lend a helping hand in jumpstarting your industrial base so that you don't fall behind. Which is why I propose an economic development treaty.
- Republican investors will fund all necessary purchases to set up industry within Ponaidhean cities and towns.
- Income taxes upon Republican built businesses will be decreased for a period of 3 years.
- Tariffs on goods between the River Republic and the Ponaidhean will be lowered.
I hope that these terms are agreeable to you. I hope that Ponaidhean can experience the growing prosperity in the Riverlands.
Outside of official diplomatic letters, River Swirl also sent a personal letter to Princess Celestia of Equestria. @Darth Invictus
To my Wise Teacher Princess Celestia,
Word of my re-election won't reach Equestria's papers before this letter to you. I am at the beginning of my second term as Chancellor of the River Republic. I still remember the day that I got my letter of acceptance to join your School for Gifted Ponies. A small town filly on the other side of the world, I never would have dreamed it would come true. But sometimes, dreams do come true. That day changed my life forever; I learned the true value of Harmony under your tutelage. Just know that I personally support you and your quest for harmony and peace for everyone. I am busying myself in these next coming months with my own vision in the Riverlands but do know that I wish for greater cooperation and connection between the Eastern Ponies and the Western Ponies. You proved to me on that day that no matter how great the distance is, Friendship will find its way.
To the Chancellor of the River Republic, River Swirl
I'm happy to accept the proposition of military exercises over in your territory. The ponies on the frontier are getting more and more anxious by the day. It'll be good to train our forces so we can defend our sovereignty if we must.
Congratulations on your win, River Swirl, I can only hope that whoever replaces me as Grand Mayor of Lake City would see your role in the Riverlands the same way I do.
From Grand Mayor of Lake City, Springtime Frost
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To the Chancellor of the River Republic, River Swirl
We see no reason to disagree with this agreement. Although there'll be some pegasi who would disagree with cooperation with the Riverlands nations, I see the greater importance of strong ties of defending our soverignity.
I'll see to it that a mix of veterans and recruits will travel to your lands to conduct military exercises, so their different perspectives will help distinguish what will work for our forces in the long run. I will instruct them to be on their best behaviors. But do keep a close eye on them, some of them will not be used to living in a different society for a while.
To the Chancellor of the River Republic, River Swirl
These terms will be nothing but beneficial to my kingdom. I'm thankful you were able to pull off your win, otherwise I would have to sleep with one eye open in case the peasants were to come for my head. I'm sure Lake City would invest in my kingdom soon enough, so my position will be assured.
To the Chancellor of the River Republic, River Swirl
It's great to see a friend helping out another friend! I was up half the night trying to figure out a capable industrialization plan for my nation, but your letter which just arrived hours was the final puzzle piece for me. We will be sure to increase our economic cooperation with you. Your traders and merchants will be extra safe in our lands to conduct business deals with our ponies.
Celestia on her way to give what will be known to history as the Proclamation of the Dawn
"....We are an ancient kingdom, proud, powerful, a beacon of friendship and harmony, we have weathered crisis and threats in multitude and each time we emerged out the other side stronger than before
But too many times of late we have been rendered helpless by one threat after another, Discord, Chrysalis, Sombra, Tirek and the Storm King, each time we were saved by the Elements of Harmony and those who bear them, the great heroism of the Elements cannot be overstated, we are all in their debt but many times it has come down to luck that they were able to save the day. Luck is no foundation for longevity, so now I say that we shall make our own luck. We must look at ourselves, see what has allowed us to be so easily overrun, find the flaws and improve them, make ourselves better, make our kingdom better, forge a brighter future over which Friendship can grow, Love can thrive, the Moon can glow and the Sun can shine
Talons of Gold, Clutch the Branch of Opportunity "Chancellor Genevieve Guildedwing's Estate"
The Chancellor's estate, a mountain top villa of simple elegance, it is here that we find The Lady of the house, Genevieve Guildedwin sitting in her study and reading a book about Griffion court politics from the Golden Age of the Empire. After finishing her latest chapter she closes the book and places it along other books, such as " Myths and Legends of the Changling People" "Political Treaty's and their uses in history: Vol III" and "The Life of Ghislain Guichard: The Most Hated Griffon in Griffonia, An Autobiography" After she places the book down, she heads to her desk and taking out a quill and Ink, begins to write on a piece of paper.
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To Lord Ferdinand von Hochsklaue, I write to you this day to request an update of the plans for Economic Reform. The Trade Council is still unsure if Reform is the right path and it is my hope that your research will shed light on the actions that will be needed for Skyfall to be more then just another former Imperial Province.
But I am sure that your work will be through and well thought out as always my Friend, I simply ask because I wish to give the Council a few of the steps we need to take, preferably ones that cater to their need for more wealth.
With Respect, Lady Genevieve Guildedwing, Chancellor of the Skyfall Trade Federation
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Looking over the letter one last time, she rolls it up and seals it with the Chancellor's seal, setting the letter aside and taking out another two pieces of paper.
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To Mr Elric Rochette, I am writing this letter to commend your work in aiding in our reorganization of Skyfall's armed forces. I hear that you also took it upon yourself to make requests to other merchants in the continent for weapon and uniform designs, so that we may update our equipment. For this action I am grateful and I wish to give you recognition for this aid. Be sure that you shall be rightly compensated for a job well done.
With Regards and Thanks, Chancellor Genevieve Guildedwing
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To Mr Philip van Sosen, I thank you for your continued work in influencing your associates to accept the needed Labor Laws that will take the workers of our nation into the Modern age safely and efficiently, as agreed upon your own interests will be well compensated for your work.
With Thanks, Chancellor Genevieve Guildedwing
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With her letters done and ready to be sent out, Genevieve goes over to her Book Shelf and picks out a new tome to read " Navel Tactics of the Griffioina Empire: How the Golden Fleet ruled the waves" She hums in contentment as she flicks to a chapter and begins to read, a smile forming on her beak and plans forming in her head.
You certainly played up our national similarities, but what's different between us is why we received animosity.
Stalliongrad found itself in this predicament because the pony proletariat had enough of the incompetent bougesis, and took out the region's mean of production into their own hooves.
You, on the other hoof, had incited a terrorist attack on Cantelot, the capital city of Equestria. However, it can't be denied that you had failed in your takeover and you would have a grudge, so you want to take out your revenge on Equestria.
The people of Stalliongrad will not be a pawn in the power struggle between you and Celestia.
There are a few exiles from your unification war of uniting the various Changeling Hives, who told their stories of your hive forcing your will onto the other hives who vehemently rejected your ambition. Truly the telling sign of a Supremacist. You and Beakoloni should get together, and talk about how much you have in common.
Despite your so called concern, the solidarity of the Stalliongradian ponies will be more then enough to meet the Equestrian paper tiger.
From the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Stalliongrad, Altidiya.
You certainly played up our national similarities, but what's different between us is why we received animosity.
Stalliongrad found itself in this predicament because the pony proletariat had enough of the incompetent bougesis, and took out the region's mean of production into their own hooves.
You, on the other hoof, had incited a terrorist attack on Cantelot, the capital city of Equestria. However, it can't be denied that you had failed in your takeover and you would have a grudge, so you want to take out your revenge on Equestria.
The people of Stalliongrad will not be a pawn in the power struggle between you and Celestia.
There are a few exiles from your unification war of uniting the various Changeling Hives, who told their stories of your hive forcing your will onto the other hives who vehemently rejected your ambition. Truly the telling sign of a Supremacist. You and Beakoloni should get together, and talk about how much you have in common.
Despite your so called concern, the solidarity of the Stalliongradian ponies will be more then enough to meet the Equestrian paper tiger.
From the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Stalliongrad, Altidiya.
Did we fail? Enough food was gathered in Canterlot to fully mobilize Vesalipolis for the war effort, and end it. Whether our actions were right is debatable, but war is not about who is right, only who is left. Yes, there were hives that disagreed, but now Changelings stand together stronger than ever. Countless millennia of fighting amongst ourselves for scraps have come to an end and peace reigns. Hopefully we will never again be forced to such desperation. We owe the populace of Canterlot our gratitude, not anger.
Suffering is the antithesis of our beings, a lack of positive emotion leaves us starving. As part of many attempts to reduce suffering internationally to come, we offer you food with no strings attached. There is no animosity between us nor does there need to be.
Griffenheim Hauptbahnhof was an infant, sliding into view beyond the tinted windows of Grover's automobile. It was far too small for its title as the heart of Griffonia's rail lines. Its meagre 25,000 square footage was dwarfed by the stations in Canterlot or Vesalipolis, and with one of its two platforms built into a hill, it seemed even smaller. The architects had opted for a more traditional, environment-oriented design; to accentuate the station, they had opted out of a glass dome and planted a tree in the centre of the depot and left a square hole in the roof for it to grow. Now, that tree was a monster, a rugged arm of wood. Its tallest branches stood over the two towers on either side of the doorway. Despite the intricate carvings and gold-adorned windows, the station's stone face seemed to sag, pockmarked by weather stains and old bullet holes. And it was younger than Grover was.
There had been a statue of his father, once. It was made of solid cast iron, and depicted his father, Grover IV, wielding the Idol of Boreas and commanding a chariot pulled by a cohort of ravenous Diamond Dogs. Grover remembered the day his father showed it to him, the giddiness and elation he felt. The promise of redemption for all of Griffonia that his likeness seemed to exude. Then the Revolution came and a fire gutted the already incomplete station. Two industrialists were hanged there. They never found the statue and Grover didn't have it in him to commission a replacement.
The automobile rolled to a stop. He looked out the window at the crowd that had assembled to watch him embark—gods what a pointless waste of time for them—and felt his neck push against his collar. His church outfit, a brown suit with an overcoat and flat cap, was nowhere near comfortable, but it was far better than full Imperial regalia. The medals and epaulettes and aiguillettes and sashes really drained him. He couldn't breathe.
How many steps was it to the train? Couldn't be more than two hundred, right? All he had to do was keep a level head, keep his breathing under control, and he'd be fine. Then it's off to the...wonderful cities of the Herzland. But at least he'd be out of Griffenheim, and at this point, he'd take Maar's guest room over his own chambers. At least he wouldn't be bothered.
Grover's driver reached in and helped him out of the automobile. He was used to needing help, especially when getting in or out of these rolling death traps. He only felt like a helpless child for a moment, then the feeling slid down his face like a tomato thrown against a wall and vanished. Just the stain remained.
He raised his talon over his head to block the sun. The crowd erupted into a frenzy of activity. Clapping. Cheering. Calling out, "Kaiser!" like that was his name. Screaming at him. Cussing. Someone tried to throw something and he heard a truncheon smack against flesh. He didn't flinch. Several newspapers had set up cameras on his route and he winced at the sudden burst of light every time. Once he made it inside, the chaos calmed, but not for long. There were still citizens clogging the hallways of the station, but most of them had been kept outside. They seemed much calmer than the crowd that greeted him.
Instead, there were nobles. And when they appeared, they swarmed him like flies on raw meat.
Gabriela called them niederer adel. Lower aristocracy, the gentry. All of the nobles who were caught between ruling a vassal of their own and the Imperial Court when the dust settled in 980. The first one to reach him was stick-thin, almost emaciated, with a dusting of white feathers on his balding head. Grover felt like he remembered him. Was he Graf of somewhere? "Your Majesty, what an honourable display you've decided to undertake here! What a way to display Imperial power! One can only hope that the railway, one day, runs through every city in—" and he was gone, brushed aside by Grover's bodyguards.
Another rose from the crowd to take his place, this time a young hen—a very young hen—wearing a thin silvery necklace. Boreas, was she even eighteen? Wait, shit, was she saying something to him? "...as my mother always used to say, prestige must take precedence over personal pride"—a tittering laugh— "Wouldn't you agree, Your Majesty? I just know you do—"
"Young lady, I am terribly sorry but your...uh, demeanor caught me off-guard—tell me, how old are you?" Grover said.
"—so I'm so glad we're on the same page. I don't think it's overstepping my bounds—Gods, what a ponyite expression," she sneered, "but we simply must do something about the children—"
"Wait, wait what about the children? And you still haven't answered my question."
"—I'm sorry, but tying the law to age is simply irrelevant. It's madness and nonsense! A ten year old can learn to operate machinery just as well as any adult can. They can also make up their minds about who they want to pleasu—" and she was finally gone. Grover swallowed his gag and shook his head.
"Michael!" That voice, he recognized that voice, didn't he? The sea of nobles was parted by two large griffons wearing chainmail. Grover's stomach dropped and his breath left him. The griffon that stepped forward wore a brown mink coat inside of a larger white mink coat. Gold aiguillettes—several of them—dangled from his beet-red military uniform, as did a slew of medals and the chain for his timepiece, tucked away in his breast pocket. A fat smile squeezed his eye sockets, keeping his monocle in place. Some griffons in the crowd whistled and cheered. Grover sighed.
"Herr Crookwing," he said. "How entertaining of you—"
"Come on, Michael, I thought we were friends! First-name basis, hello?"
The griffon trailed off. Since he had just asked a rhetorical question, Grover shut his mouth and waited for him to answer it himself.
There was a long gap in the conversation. The griffon waggled his eyebrows at Grover. One of his bodyguards smirked. Oh, for Boreas' sake. "Hello, Henry."
"Hello, Michael!—"
"Grover."
"—It's been so long since you've come to visit Vinnin, I was starting to worry you'd finally keeled over! But look at you! The pinnacle of proper royal power, in the prime of your life!" Henry said, fanning his arms this way and that, as if he were about to take off. There was a ring of sweat staining his collar. "And what a delightful way to show your virility—a tour of our gorgeous Herzland! You plan to stop in Vinnin, right? The station's just been finished."
Not a single inch of track lay between Griffenheim and Vinnin. Grover knew that because he had it all torn up. "What do you want?" he said. Could he push past Henry? His goons could block him with ease, but maybe his bodyguards could beat Henry's—Gods, what was this, a game of chess? Besides, would they stand in the way of the Emperor? He could see the train—it wasn't that far. He wondered...
"Why, I came to wish you gute Reise, of course!" Henry's face swooped towards Grover's as if he were going in for a kiss. Grover's breath hitched and a series of violent coughs burst from his throat. He hunched over and pressed his fist to his beak. Henry's arm curled around Grover's neck and settled on his shoulder. "As well, My Liege, I'd like to share with you the most recent information I've acquired regarding our internationalbanker problem, if you know what I mean." Grover drew a handkerchief from his suit and raised it to his mouth, hacking up a small ball of phlegm. "Also, could you stop coughing, please? This is important." Henry said.
"I won't," Grover wheezed, "entertain your conspiracies. I have a train to catch, thank you ver—"
"How many times do I have to fucking explain it, Michael?—"
"It's Grover, you bastard."
"—The Karthinians are plotting the downfall of the Empire! Look what they've already done! When you really see how far their wingspan reaches, you'll be just as concerned as I am! " Henry said, throwing his arms to his sides. The other bodyguard, the one who didn't smirk, lost his composure and started laughing. Grover eyed them, ignoring Henry's glare.
"Why do you work for this fool?" he asked.
The first bodyguard shrugged and smirked again. "Out of loyalty to the Empire, Your Majesty."
The second bodyguard calmed down and wiped his eyes with the back of his talons. "As well," he said, laughter still fading from his voice, "His Excellency, the Margrave, is a very entertaining lord, Your Majesty."
Henry turned and smiled at his bodyguards. "Thank you for the flattery, Johan and Johannes. You two do quality work. Finest griffons this side of the Griffking." When he turned back to Grover, he and his bodyguards were already past him and out of earshot. "Damnit—so long, Michael!" he called. "I'll see you soon, in Vinnin! At my manor!"
A crowd of nobles and commoners alike had been assembled on the large outdoor train platform, cordoned behind barricades guarded by police officers and soldiers. The train sat on the tracks. It was a behemoth: a beast of wrought iron, a child of the industrial age. There was a small flight of stairs leading up to the door to the first train car. When Grover made it to the top of the stairs he was out of breath. He greeted the few griffons inside of the train who would accompany him on this trip—Doctor Martin Redcrop, his personal physician; the conductors; some aides; and a talonful of police for security—and turned back to the crowd. He waved and raised his fist in the air, struggling to keep himself from shaking. The crowd cheered erupted into thunderous applause. This time it sounded almost entirely genuine. He felt a warmth in his chest and smiled. "Thank you, thank you all for coming," he said as loudly as he could. If anyone heard, he couldn't tell. He turned away and Martin stepped forward to help him inside.
"I don't suppose there's any changing your mind, now," Martin said, reaching for Grover's arm.
"Oh, don't worry, you," Grover said. He shrugged him off and waved his hand as if to dispel the notion like a cloud of smoke. "I'm not dead yet." He leaned in to Martin's ear. "But I will be if the fucking nobles don't leave me alone for an hour. One hour"—he raised a finger—"that's all I want."
Martin smiled and adjusted his spectacles. "Well, you'll have a whole day before we reach Bronzekreuz. I suggest you get some rest."
A large shadow passed over the cabin and something sliced through the air above the train. Grover heard the crowd outside shouting and screaming. "What's going on?" He hurried over to the open door and peered over the shoulder of the police officer blocking it.
Gryphian host. Territory with so messed up and complicated power structure which is the result of just as messy and complicated history that not even all of their neighbors can tell which faction holds real power. What everyone agrees that no matter which faction it is Hetman Calas Bulba holds undisputed sway over them.
How did this messy and complicated structure came to be and what are the factions you ask. Good questions. Sit down because this is a story worth listening to.
Left bank of Evya River is quite a fertile land. Even non-ponies on it can get harvest comparable to that of an earth pony elsewhere. Add in an abundance of fish in Evya and its tributaries that span entirety of the bank and you get land where you don't exactly need to worry about being hungry. That quality is what enchanted so many tribes, like Kammerians, Scathians and Sarmatans to not only move here but stay despite insistence of the ones who came before to "Go look somewhere else".
After about a hundred years tribe migration stopped and everything started to settle down. Bank was divided between tribes, they to nobodies surprise continued to fight for power but not to actively. With time tribes also created first settlements as centers of power. At first it was just a simple fort in a strategic location. But then cities sprung up around them for and because of defense given by the fort. This forts allowed for some form of trade to start flourishing between seacoast and what will later become Lake City.
Such flow of money allowed three of five forts(from south to north along the bank): Kharson, Kaiv, and Lwaw to amass money and with them power to declare their independence from tribal chifes. Kaiv was first, then Lwaw and after that Kharson. Tribal chiefs tried to take cities by force but they used amassed wealth to buy help from other chiefs and then each other. After about a decade two more cities will join Zaphz situated atop the only iron deposit in whole country and Kharkow on top of oil deposit (so plentyful that to this day it is harder to get water from a well than pure oil).
This wealth (and repeting raids by tribes but mostly wealth) got attention of Grand Prince of Lake City. So he decided to the only logical thing. ("Conquer everyone?") Conquer everyone. Tribes being the one to launch raids didn`t expect attack from "pancy" ponies and so were caught completely by surprise. Add mastery of Lake ponies over river transportation and all of the tribes were conquered in a matter of weeks. Independent cities fallen soon after. In the wake of victory it seemed like he got everything he wanted. Size of his coffers steadily increased and even constant raids stopped.
But conquered doesn't mean subjugated. Small parts of tribes managed to evade capture and in desperation banded together. They did this on an island of Cos thus establishing the first Host and naming themselves Cossacks. There were not a lot of them but they were determinant to break the hold of ponies. And to do that they had to beat ponies at their own game.
First cossacks were easily captured by river guards and Cossian Host was regularly burned to the ground. But every year there were tens of griffons who were leaving their life behind and becoming new Cossacks keeping up and even increasing cossack number. In less than two hundred years Cossacks controled more than 2/3 of left bank. But after conquering Grand Prince didn`t mix up all of the tribes between each other. So everything returned to the old ways of separate tribes and animosity. Because of this it took more than three hundred years from original conquest for a Griffon Hetman Heleg to gather enough forces for a rebellion. He also had to sign "eternal freedom" of independent cities. Rebellion succeeded and to spite Grand Prince rulers title decided to name King thus establishing Kingdom of Zaphzia. Why Zaphzia? Well first capital and coronation ceremony happened in Zaphz so the name stuck despite latter transfer to Kaiv.
Despite more than three hundred years of pony rule. The only thing that changed as a result was who would do regular raids. Before tribes did it independently but now Cossacks would do it. Though it would mean that there would be no raids one on top the other sheer military professionalism and numbers meant that it was much harder to protect yourself from such raid.
Again this status quo would stick for more than three and a half centuries until it was vehemently broken by Grover I in his campaign to unite all Griffons. Grover appreciated unique capabilities of Cossacks thus just reformed kingodom into a border march. But he also made all of tribes to settle down by equaling all of tribal chiefs to landed nobles. This started a few rebellions that were quickly put down and increase in Cossack recruits which was a plus in Grovers book.
New balance held up for almost a hundred years until Empire collapsed on itself. With the collapse large chunk of influence returned to the claws of Council of Independent cities. So now there is an uneasy balance of power between Council Landed gentry and Cossacks that can tip over in any moment. Fortunately this is not going to be a problem as long as Calas Bulba is alive.
Created in the wake of proclamation of Kingdom of Zaphzia to present a unified front Council is made up of representative of each of Free cities in Gryphian Host. (Currently: Kaiv. Lwaw, Kharson, Zaphz and Kharkow.) It's job is to ensure Hetman does not make decisions that will step on cities freedoms. One action slot is taken by council for cities own actions(Can be taken back).
Minus: Because of its high industrialization and much higher education level (comperatively to the rest of the country) Free cities are a great place for any revolutionary thinking to spread.
Plus: High level of industrialization and education can help with countries build up. Also cities house few crafting guilds that can be reformed into new companies. City guard are also refined enough system for creation of National army
A lot of land and population is under control of landlords. Their uninterest of change and constant rivaling left over from tribal chiefdoms drain not only their but also national resources.One action slot is taken by gentry for their own actions(Can be taken back).
Minus: Until forced gentry will resist any change in any field. Can revolt.
Plus: They hold a lot of wealth and in case of their agreement changes can be implemented quicker than in case of their neutrality.
By now almost a defining feature of Gryphian Host Cossacks also have to be consulted in nation rule. Fortunately they mostly interested only in military matters. Though they have some hostility to Gentry because of mostly being comprised of runaways. And some dismissal of city guards. One action slot is taken by cossacks for their own actions(Can be taken back).
Minus: Relatively low number of Cossacks (comparing to population) and extensive time needed for their training makes them highly valuable troops. Don't come to them if you aren't doing something about military. Or planing a great after raid party.
Plus: Cossacks are highly professional troops specializing in raiding and partially water combat (At least on the level of ponies of River federation). They also can and will learn new combat strategies at a much higher pace then normal troops.
Just as it sounds like somewhere between 70 and 80% of all Gryffons in the country are illiterate. This needs to change if we want to fully use our potential.
Actions:
1) Hetman Calas Bulba sends his most trusted aid and current official scrivener of Gryphian Host Pavel Vereskopadsky on a tour to Gryffonian Empire and then River Federation. His job is write down anything he thinks can help with catching up to Empire and to check as to what ideas Ponies have to solve increasing river traffic problems.
2) (Cossack slot) Despite doctors insisting he stays in bed. Bulba decided to plan a new Raid, for as he says "I would rather die than live the rest of my years in my bed" But even he knows that he doesn`t have a lot in this world. So to make sure he will be remembered, Hetman with the help of new scrivener Borad Grifnitsky (recomended personally by Vereskopadsky) plans biggest raid of them all. Instead of raiding only Kingdom of Brodfeld or Prywen Borad plans to raid both of them. To make sure there are enough forces he sends open letter that calls every gentry that fails to turn up "scardey pegasus" among nicer things.
3) (City council slot) Cornilo Khurshevich (representative from Zaphz in the council) re-activates carefully build network of informants to find out whats with all of troop movement. He finds out too late to inform Prywen of coming raid without reveling himself. Instead he and other leaders of communist movement (by this point also representatives in council) increase city guard regiments under pretext of "danger from increase Host military"
4) (Gentry slot) Yeven Krawvelets doesn`t appreciate Grand Uncle accidentally disrupting his plans but sees opportunity to increase the number of his supporters outside cossack forces. He mostly concentrated on younger generation.
Ordering the creation of a completely new army, divorced from all armed forces currently in the country is easy. Turning this order into reality is harder. Doing it while lacking equipment, soldiers and established infrastructure is nearly impossible.
The Ironhelm tribe may be the richest and most influential tribe in Farbrook, but even they can´t supply an additional army, lacking the kind of industries needed to create enough weapons to outfit the amount of ponies Cenhelm wanted in his new Farbrook Army. As a result only a limited amount of soldiers can be trained to use weapons at the same time. While not as bad as the material situation the quality of recruits is certainly not what you want when creating an army. Farbrooks best ponies are already employed in their tribal armies or unwilling to leave their homes and families to travel and live in the Capital.
As a result Minnyhooves, leader of the Ironhelms armed forces is forced to create a special training regime that rotates actual combat training with the limited amount of weapons available to her among the soldiers under her training. The formations that do not have access to training with weapons instead hone their inherent skills as ponies and how to fight and march as a unit. Of course just training soldiers does not create a new army. Arguably more important is the creation of an officer staff that is able to take over these duties later on, divorcing the Farbrook Army from the Ironhelm tribeponies and creating an actual state army.
Finding and selecting good officer candidates is not easy, especially because the elite that would usually make up most of these leadership positions is noticeable absent in the recruitment offices. As a result many of the officers of lower rank are untested and do not have any experience leading ponies even in a civilian setting. At least there was one shining star amongst the sea of mediocrity and incompetence: Taffy Swirl, daughter of Chief Brightflank is a promising general, educated in leading ponies and a quick learner of new ideas. Of course the Suntouched did not let go of such a bright hope voluntarily and had demanded the return of the mare immediately.
Even though Taffy Swirl gained residence in the city of Farbrook by joining the army, therefore moving her directly under the jurisdiction of the High Chief, Chief Brightflank disputed the legality of granting residency to a newcomer of the city, accusing Cenhelm of spitting on the proud traditions of Farbrook by bending the rules to favor him and expand the power of the Ironhelms by creating a second armed force, siphoning state resources better spent on helping the struggling countryside catching up to the standards of the modern world.
Placing Taffy Swirl in Command of the Farbrook Army may have won Cenhelm a competent and loyal general for his army but earned him the enmity of the Suntouched too.
1. Fourth Corner Order - Military order issued by Celestia in her capacity as supreme commander of all Equestrian armed forces, doubling the funding of the S.M.I.L.E intelligence agency and elevating to answer to Celestia directly
2. Sweetie Drops is officially appointed to be Royal Confectioner to the Royal Court (in reality to serve as an intelligence advisor to the Princess)
3. Absentia Inc, a new limited company is incorporated in Manehattan
4. Several infrastructure contracts worth a collective 200 million bits are up for grabs to expand Equestiras railway networks, using the Equestrian track gauge
5. Skychief Agnes is to visit Equestrias leading aircraft designers (and those in the crystal Empire) to begin Phase I of the overhaul and update of the Equestrian Airforce, reviewing their designs and putting prototypes into development
Actions:
1) Implement the New Economic Policy, helping to further boost our economy with the influx of Changeling trade to come.
2) To further exploit the raw resources we need, Governor Teafeather will encourage the Opening of Mines in Dulli to exploit the untapped development there. Warm Clothes and further incentives shall be provided!
3) Normally, that would be the end of economic development plans for the current time, but due to the insitance of the powerful industrialist Skeiron Goldfeather, one more venture shall be opened. The Beak Mining Company shall be organized to help supply the vast resources needed to industrialize the nation, helped out by Goldfeather's generous investments and help in buying up smaller privately own mines.
4) Meanwhile, with potential changeling help realized, Erwin Highhill finally has the political capital to gather a report on The state of the Military, making well known how dire the situation is. Soon, he'll be able to do more than just sit around with a bunch of colonial militias...
With more than 500 years of raiding Cossack raids stopped being an almost (intentional) chaos to a form of art. With time and expertise Cossacks started chaining raiding both big and small. Small raids (mostly just cossack flying up to border guard and getting into a fist fight ending in a nearest bar. (Use of right provocation is also appreciated)) being a scouting for weak spot for a big raid. And big raids giving information for next attack that can be launched years later.
During raid raid leader does overall command but it is scrivener who is both logistical leader who decides what units to send where and intel gather to find any weak points for later attack.
(Summary of Bulba and Grifintskiy talk about up coming raid: because of civil war all previous information about weak points is garbage. So they are going half blind. They do have some intel on how the country is split. Bulba decided that he is tired and this is going to be last raid. Either he dies during raid or during after-raid party. He barely recovered from previous one. As for his main target is to partially weaken both sides and gather enough intel for conquest. Kingdom always rubbed him in the wrong way and while he understands the idea for GLA he hates how much it spilled over into host).
Name: Crystal Empire
Government: Alicorn-based Monarchy
Capital: Crystal City
Ideology: Harmony
Head of State: Princess Cadance
Head of Military: Prince-consort Shining Armour
ACTIONS:
Invest in the nation's heavy industry - it is a pre-existing strength that will be empathised.
DIPLOMATIC ACTION: Approach the Yaks of YakYakistan. Offer a trade deal - consistent provision of arms and armaments (perhaps especially for those mountain divisions that the wiki mentions are underequipped) in exchange for sharply reduced prices in foodstuffs for purchase by the Empire and its citizens.
Throw a big party! A grand festival, to show off whatever bits of Imperial culture are left over from before the time stasis (maybe the jousting thing if its safe?) and celebrate how far the Empire has come.
Action one: The Boule Deliberates
The internal political struggles of Nimbusia have come to a head, with the nation perched between reforming the body politic and purifying them. To decide the fate of the nation, a series of debates will be held to determine who should lead: Metakeros or Andreia. To the surprise of many, the Reformers make a strong case for a better Nimbusia, and many find themselves swayed to throw their support behind Metakeros.
Action two: Build Up industry
In recognition of the ever increasing reliance on technology and the recent advances in warfare, the citizens of Nimbusia have voted to devote funds to improving the industrial capacity of the nation.
Action three: reduce poverty
In recognition of the above vote, the Nimbusia bureaucracy has formed the Draft Horse work program, allowing construction companies to lease low skill laborers from the program, which in turn will pay subsidized wages to the participants. This injection of capital into the market is expected to improve the conditions of many people in the nation across the castes
Action Four: establish intelligence service
In recognition of the increased tensions and an increasing number of threats from around the world, Nimbusia will establish a military beach dedicated to gathering information from potential enemies and monitoring event across the Globe.
The Boule
The Boule is the governing council of Nimbusia made up of 500 citizens randomly selected each year from a pool of candidates chosen by each of the 10 tribes. While this system of government ensures all citizens have a say in the nation's government and almost eliminates corruption, there is a chance that those in power may not be the most capable.
Pros- improved national stability
Cons- decreased political efficacy
Citizens, Perioikoi, Helots
Nimbusian society is divided into three rigid castes - the Citizens, composed almost exclusively of pegasi who have undertaken the Agoge and passed the Trials of the Cyclone, possess all political power and are required to serve in the military; the non-citizen perioikoi, who, while they are not being represented in the political system are free citizens, mostly serving as merchants, artisans and bureaucrats for the martial pegasi; and the serf Helots - forming the backbone of Nimbusian agriculture. While they are not treated as badly as chattel slaves in some other nations, they have no real rights and freedoms and are the property of the state or citizens.
Trials of the Cyclone.
At the age of fifteen, every young Nimbusian faces the Trials of the Cyclone. These trials test their strength, loyalty, honesty, dedication and bravery. On those who pass earn the right to be a citizen - and it makes us all stronger.
Pros- significantly improves special forces performance and unit cap.
Cons- increased training time
Nimbusian General Staff
Through years of military training, combat experience and tradition, the Nimbusian general staff is a force to be reckoned with.
Pros- improves divisions and military commanders
Cons- increased cost of non Pegasi units
Martial Society
Every Nimbusian Citizen is or was a soldier. Few other nations can pride themselves on a populace that values martial skill, discipline and physical prowess as Nimbusians do. Of course that means some other areas of society suffer - especially ones seen as frivolous or not befitting a Nimbusian Pegasus.
Pros- increased combat effectiveness on core territory, increased effectiveness of our partisans in occupied territory
Cons- significant penalties to economy and research sectors
The Treaty of Coltstream
This state has signed the Treaty of Coltstream. In 898 the River Coalition was founded after an attack by the Griffon Orders was pushed back. The founding members of the treaty were Lake City, Deponya, River Republic and Nimbusia. Although the treaty has been mainly a defensive alliance since its inception, some politicians and their supporters advocate to expand the treaty to allow for more cooperation between the states of the River Coalition.
Negligible Illiteracy Less than a fifth of the population cannot write, but cheap or even free education ensures almost all citizens attain basic reading skills.
Cons- Penalties to construction and research sectors
Mild Poverty
This country's economy is mostly functional, but a number of citizens live from paycheck to paycheck and have no savings.
Cons- penalties to pop growth and economic sectors
1007 blossoms as the clock sweeps into motion. What started the new year strong was the Fourth Corner Order issued by Princess Celestia. This action would be out of character for the benevolent ruler if you hadn't taken into account of Queen Chrysalis. Now that the Changeling Empire has come into fruition, it was the start of two power blocs, with the Changeling Empire in the northwest, and Equestria in the southeast of Equus.
In the first couple of months, as if Chrysalis wanted to promote her new empire, she sent out a mass of diplomatic messages to nearby nations in the interest of trade, and economic assistance. The notable exception was Equestria and her harmonic allies.
The Changeling Empire would have an immense influence on the continent in its first decisive moves. Chrysalis was able to pressure Paw Wellington, leader of the Polar Bear Communities, to willingly accept servitude to the Changeling Hegemony. This might be the first step of species kowtowing to the superior Changeling species.
In response, Cadence, the administrator of the Crystal Empire, has authorized assistance programs and arms to the Kingdom of Yakyakistan in favor of cheaper prices of their food. Princess Celestia followed suit with offering funds free of charge to Prince Brutherford, with already having a formal bond thanks to the Equestrian ambassador, Pinkamenia Diane Pie.
If you were to graph the citizen's feelings on their political leaders of the Equus continent, and compare them from least popular to most popular, it would be to no one suprise that it would be King Johan. Illegimate rulers if they want to remain for long, would either need to be masters of intrigue in their court of power, or repress any dissenters that could threaten to remove him from his throne of power. That's what the leading political philosophy books would say. As if King Johan had a feeling about the citizen's dissent that they could go join the underground Communist party, or join the Velvet loyalist party, he would first begin an anti corruption policy to clean out the deer that weren't the most loyal to him. Thinking that anti corruption wasn't enough to turn his citizen's hearts towards him, he implemented a home guard program for those who want to protect Olenia but don't want to squander their time in the proper military. They might not like him, but at least he wasn't a Changeling.
Regardless of possible species rights Chrysalis would break to promote the superioity of the Changeling species, Nova Griffonia was able to accerlate its economic development and been given the administrative space to reassess its military capabilities, thanks to prospects of trade between it and the Changeling Empire. Now Governor Teafeather will need to sign the trade treaty with the Changeling ambassador to make it official.
NPC Events
Stalliongrad is the mother of revolution. The first socialist state to exist in the world, yet the utopia has yet to arrive. Capitalists would jeer at how it was already going to be a failed state, but defenders of the Stalliongrad revolution would say it's a matter of the Supreme Soviet being too dogmatic with the analysis by Caramel Marks. It turns out if you're going to overthrow the bourgeoisie, they're not going to like you very much. Adminst famine, and political stagnation, Altidiya and Vasily will have to put their heads together if they're going to put their country onto the right path and save their people.
The King of Pingland has announced that his reign is coming to an end due to his species' short lifespan. He'll be choosing an heir in the coming months. It'll be interesting to see what they will bring to the table in addressing the rising conflict of the Equus continent.
Griffonia
What may seem to be the start of an unseemly uneventulful year in Griffonia would surprise many with what had transpired in Wingbardy. The appointment of Guilo Beakonlini as the Duce of Wingbardy by King Garibald Taloneul III. This would send shivers up the politically educated. Wasn't this type of violent griffon with his xenophobic, ultra nationalist political philosphy supposed to be laughed at and not taken so seriously?! Here they thought what happened in Longsword was a fluke!
It doesn't matter now as Beakolini has the approval of the King to carry out his wishes of making Wingbardy regain its glory as a nation. He started by accepting a trade agreement with Queen Chrysalis of the Changeling Empire. It makes sense as Beakolini and Chrysalis have a similar Supremist state of mind when it comes to governing their nations.
A fair distance away, Genevieve Guildedwing set to work on a plan to save the Skyfall Trade Federation from collapsing itself. Fleet, army, labor rights, and sorting out the economic budget. Some newspapers published articles about the crazy ambitions of the council, but some of the more outspoken of the council would respond at the front of the administrative building at the newspapers for making the easy criticisms when they don't have to take responsibility for fixing the country's issues. Only time would tell if they bit off more than they can chew.
Over at the eastern side of Griffonia, things are a lot more calmer. Riding high on her election win, River Swirl, Chancellor of the River Republic, acted on her rhetoric of bringing her allies closer beyond a simple defence treaty, and sent out treaties to Lake City, the Kingdom of Deponya, Nimbusia, and Pondhaiden. The only noticeable exceptions from the River Coalition was Diamond Mountain, and the Kingdom of Wittenland. Perhaps it was because both of those nations were on rocky territory with the River Republic to begin with, or maybe River Swirl just wanted to make the process of centralization faster with nations she diplomatically gets along with anyway.
Nimbusia is the land that sticks to a military tradition, furthermore it's a society that props up its soldier class while subjugating the helot class. However, the reformer party led by Metakeros through his passionate speeches about how if they were to adjust their rituals in making it better for the Helots and their right to political representation, their nation would be better off for it. The younger generation were particularly fascinated by it, and the Reformists were able to regain slightly more influence in the Boule.
It was enough that Pegicles decided to agree to River Swirl's request of his few regiments travelling over to the River Republic to cooperate with their forces as well as Lake City's regiments to improve and figure out what kind of military strategy would be efficient going forward. Also, Pegicles would make moves in building the first intelligence department of Nimbusia's military. He hasn't figured out the name yet.
When Pegicles was asked why he agreed to River Swirl's request at the Boule, knowing that there were majorly Purist representatives there at the time, being the popular speaker he was, he justify it by making sure Nimbusia's military will be able to be one step ahead of Lake City.
Due to Nimbusia's citizens voting on upgrading the country's industrial capacity, the Boule has formed the Draft Horse work program. If it is implemented properly, it's expected to make things slightly better for the population across the castes from the boost to the economy, as well as labor being put to good use.
The Gryphian Host is about to undergo a great change. But whatever that could be could rely on whether Bulba can pull off a successful raid on both the Kingdom of Prywhen and the Griffon Liberation Army. Despite the delicate balance between the Hetman, the Council of Independent Cities, and the Cossacks, Hetman Bulba sent out his aid Pavel Vereskopadsky to scout out the Griffonian Empire and the River Coaltion. He believes that from Pavel's notes, they can figure out how to catch up to the Griffonian Empire's military capability, as well as learn how the Riverland nations were able to use the rivers to its full trading potential.
In the land of the Hillponies, Cendhealm is concluding his post as the village chief. To commemorate this, he invited delegates from the Firtree Villages, Watertowns, and Grenclyf to the convention in the capital city of Farbrook.
Cenehelm also sent for diplomatic envoys from the River Coalition for the possibility of forming diplomatic ties with the River Coalition, much to his surprise, River Swirl eagerly jumped at the opportunity to accept the invitation and go over to the capital city of Farbrook with her personal delegation.
Of course, that sent ripples throughout Farbrookian society. To have River Swirl there would be terrific for those who wanted economic cooperation beyond the borders, however that presented a new foe for the North Eastern Socialist Party, and the White Hooves Clan to campaign about potential foregin capitalist exploitation of their nation. Of course they do have their differences in ideology for different reasons, but this similar opposition could make things tricky for Cenehelm at the convention.
What sailors could see off the coast of Farbook, is dark clouds starting to swirl on the coast of Magehold. When messengers asked the Articulan Council for comment, they said they had the situation under control and would monitor for future changes.
NPC Events
Siegfried has announced his retirement as headmaster of the Knightly Order of Hellquill. Who he would pick as successor would have direct the fate of the country, and its foregin policy.
Alexander Kemerskai has announced he would not let the bandits become more of a problem in the countryside anymore, and will not give into the demands of Suntail and Rosewing. Regarding his other policy, he'll be commencing a tour throughout the south and north of the Griffonian Republic to solidify his popularity among the population. To top it off he'll be conduting military reform, and opening up the Cloudbury Military Academy to train a new generation of military cadets and officers.
Kingdom of Wingbardy
Capital: Karthin
Head of State: King Garibald Talonuel III
Head of Government: Prime Minister Guilio Beakolini
Ideology: Fascist
Race: Griffon
Faction: Karthinian Pact
Population: 10.29 Million
Beakolini is slowly establishing his grip across Wingbardy. With the immediate domestic threats dealt with he intends to secure Wingbardy's prosperity and end the Depression to ensure Wingbardy's strength and his own popularity.
1. Public Works are now the order of the day in WIngbardy as Beakollini seeks to get the unemployed off the streets. Roads are being repaired and renovated, Bridges are being built, and abandoned factories are being reopened under government control. Beakolini has assured Parliament that these factories will eventually be privatized, thought to who is unclear...
2. The Passage of the National Food Act has given Beakolini leave to attack the famine afflicting the nation in any manner his sees fit. Unemployed being drafted into armies of farmhands, government subsidies for fertilizers and farm machinery and even rationing in extreme cases will ensure every Wingbardian gets three squares a day.
3. Education is by no means neglected in the midst of all these reforms. Beakolini has ordered the curriculum redesigned to emphasize the past glories of Wingbardy and Karinith and increase involvement by the nation's youth in rebuilding Wingbardy's greatness however and wherever they can. Additionally, generous grants are being given to the University of Feathara to provide a top-of-the-line modern education.
4. More funds are being procured for the military. The Armored Corps is receiving an increased budget to work with Changeling engineers to produce modern tanks.
5. Finally, the oil industry continues expanding with a new pipeline being built from Librarsia to Taloncana.
1: All modern nations posses a national Anthem and with its purpose of uniting the nation and showing its Citizens that they are part of a greater whole. It is thusly that the lack of this in The kingdom of Olenia is a National and political embarrassment. But no more! With the urging of King Johan a national Anthem has Been chosen from a song made almost a hundred years ago! The song named ''du gamla du fria'' ( you old you free'') '' Writen by The artist Richard Dybuck, The song itself has been regarded for some time as the unoffical Anthem and it enjoys wide popularity from the large majority of the population. This is also to be combined with a large boosting of the national spirit by the use of promoting deer Culture , newspaper inserts and a increse in the times given to studing Olenian history and Culture in schools in the nation along with more basic ways to boost the national unity.
2: Olenian lags behind most nations in terms of industry and the King has seein it fit so not only boost domestic productin level by granting of loans and benefits to those who wish to expand the economy. He has also passed reform that will tax large sums of saved Money but at the same time lower the tax for income gaind from busines. This is not all for the goverment will ease the red tape nesesary for the Creation of new busines inside Olenia not only by Citizens but foreigners aswell.
3: The goverment of Olenia will begin what it dubs the ''steel ring'' that will include: Railroads linking all major cities with the capital and oneanother it will be a two lane system. 2 Battaries of costal forts near the capital that will Feuture: 2 38cm Turrets using tripel mounts, A radar and rangefinding system for use in Targeting enemy ships and locating enemy air attacks, a AA system that will use the same radar system used by the main guns. The contakts for the radarsystem will be handeld by chageling Companys With the guns themselfs to be built by the Baltamare shipyards and the bunker and undrground systems going to national companyes.
4: A investment into the enlarging of the Capitals port along with a sizing up of the merchant marine to ensure that B.Y.G.G can export its materials throut the World and in incresed quantity to keep up with demand around the World from The chageling nation to equestria and staliongrad even all the way to skyfall and the grifin continent.
Celestia, having seen first hand how Changelings are so skilled at their shape shifting capabilities, has ordered immediate double the funding for the S.M.I.L.E agency. To make sure her Intelligence agency doesn't get infiltrated by Changelings, she orders it to answer to her directly, believing that her detection magic would see through any disguises.
Because of the double funding into the Intelligence agency, Equestria now has two operatives, ready to serve their beloved agency.
Sweetie Drops was happy to be promoted, but that would she'll have to say goodbye to her friends at Ponyville. But thankfully her wife, Lyra, would be accompanying her, so at least she has that going for her.
Sweetie Drops is appointed to Princess Celestia's Intelligence advisor. This would give Equestria an own operative detection chance factor of -10%, and the enemy operative detection chance factor of +10%
Manehattan makes sense as an industrial center to invest incorporating a limited company into. This got stock buildup to rise, and a slow increase in job opportunity for new college graduates who flocked over to the city of opportunities.
Manehattan has two new civilian factories from the slightly increased investment thanks to Absentia Inc.
The Trans-Equestrian Railway was developed to the enthusiasm of the ponies. Ever since the invention of the trains and railtrack has been established in Equestria, one of the things some ponies had been wishing for was a country wide railway system so that ponies would be able to travel to multiple locations in Equestria at a faster rate then if they were to travel by hoof or carriage. The infrastructure contracts was a huge success.
Infrastructure has been upgraded by one level in the following provinces: Whinnyapolis, Nocturnal Valley, Phlox Flower, Alicorn Sister Plains, Canterlot, Ponyville, Cloudsdale, Foregetmenot Meadows, Ponderosa, White Tail Woods, and Las Pegasus.
The update report was a success. It states that most of their Fighters are behind the current standard for Fighters, and only the Naval Bombers are up to scratch. At this rate, if Celestia doesn't build airfriends and focus extra production on airplane productions, the Changelings would likely surpass them in the airpower department in a few years time. The Crystal Empire is also in a similar state of Equestria, although it depends on if Celestia wants Cadence to focus on air production as well. They could always rely on New Mareland to give them the firepower in the sky they need. Plans for the Hurricane Fighter to be developed are already drawn up, and if they're lucky, they can get started on building a superior model to the Hurricane in a few years.
This completes phrase 1 of the overhaul and update of the Equestrian air force. This has advanced greatly thanks to the advice of the already established Wonderbolts.
Changeling Empire
Expansion of Vesalipolis was a success. While the construction plan wasn't completely finished, at least multiple civilian and military factories have been built as well as a few synthetic factories to prepare for the eventual oil embargo. Not to mention the Changeling workers have their homes sufficiently upgraded. Whether that'll be in their best interest is up to their Queen.
2 civilian factories, 2 synthetic factories, and 2 military factories has been built in Vesalipolis. 5% stability has been added thanks to the Changeling workers being satisfied with the improved living conditions. Current stability is 59%
Expansion of Soryth was a success. Crystal mines are constructed along the Key Lake. Despite being far from the capital, Soryth has the only university in the Changeling Empire that specializes in magic research. Expansion of the university will give the scientists in charge of magic research the room and material they needed to give the Changeling Empire the edge they needed against the magic of the ponies.
Changeling has discovered crystals deposits along the Key Land, as well as a temporary research bonus for race magic.
Expansion of Ditrysium was a success. Queen Chrysalis discovered an ocean trading route she could exploit to get the raw resources she needed to power her military. So she's confident with the expansion of the port that'll be host to multiple trading fleets coming from Griffonia.
2 infrastructure and 2 naval docklands are built in Ditrysium. Extra steel and tungsten were discovered around this area, which would be used for the Ditrysium naval effort. The stability of the Changeling Empire increases by 2% thanks to the satisfied citizens of Ditrysium who feels patriotic that their leader is standing up for their right as a species to exist, and hopefully soon be a dominant species on the world stage.
Expansion of Lyctida was a success. As much as Changelings are stereotyped for being insect drones, which biologically is still up for debate, Queen Chrysalis issued orders for a small construction line of civilian factories to satisfy consumer goods demand in internal and external markets. This constructive move shows that Chrysalis not only wants to be a national power, but a global power in world trade.
This dedicated effort to the citizen's needs will make the transition to a more militarized society more easy to swallow for the few hesitant Changelings who hadn't yet followed in line with Twlight Sparkle's Harmonic Teachings with Characteristics of Friendship.
Expansion of Vraks was a success. With the advances in naval tech done for now, Chrysalis focused on the foundations of a great air fleet. Which would be new military factories for building the planes, synthetic oil to fuel the planes, steel and alumninum to construct the planes, and also general infrastructure to upgrade the logistical chain from where the resources are mined to where the planes are being constructed.
Vraks's infrastructure is upgraded by 2. As well having two extra military factories, increased production of steel and aluminum, and increased synthetic refinery output.
The Changeling fleet under the command of Admiral Lysander had reached its destination of the Eastern Griffonian coastline, aka the Riverlands and the land of the Hillponies. Not to mention the Changeling island of Greneclyf. Diplomatic contact has been reached between the Changeling Empire and the River Republic, Grenclyf, Nimbusia, and the Chiefdom of Farbrook.
Crystal Empire
Hearing the news about Queen Chrysalis uniting the Changeling Lands, and renaming it as the Changeling Empire, had Princess Cadence put the Crystal Empire on high alert. She ordered more emphasis to be put on production of heavy industry.
4 military factories were built within the few months Cadence advocated for.
The Crystal Empire was able to successfully land a trade deal with the Kingdom of Yakyakistan that in providing them arms, they would sell food products cheaper to the markets in the Crystal Empire. It was a wise political move judging from the recent stability this caused among the families who lived in the towns close to the border, who were able to take advantage of the sales.
Added 5% stability which is now 78%
The Crystal Empire's Grand Festival went off without a hitch! The crystal ponies were able to show off their pride and honor, which was their crystal creations as well. But Princess Cadence also made sure to appoint guides to show visitors exhibits of their latest heavy infantry prototypes to show that the Crystal Empire isn't going to rely on Equestria to protect them from threats in the future. Both internal and external.
Princess Cadence gains political legitimacy in the eyes of the majority of the crystal ponies population. 10% stability is added because the Grand Festival was able to be a space where crystal ponies were able to have fun celebrating their culture with their friends and families without having to think of a possible future war or Sombra. Current stability is 88% from the recent Grand Festival. It would take a serious political crisis to deter the crystal ponies from following wholeheartedly Princess Cadence's agenda.
Nova Griffonia
New Economic Policy It comes time for Nova Griffonia to pursue an independent economic policy instead of relying on the Griffonian Empire for its manufactured goods. This provided Teafeather and his economic minister a guideline sheet for how Nova Griffonia can develop its economy.
Replaced the Colonial Administration national spirit with the Stagnated Economy national spirit. -10% in consumer factories. This planning out of the new economic policy would have a wide range of benefits. From giving Nova Griffonia a 10% stability boost from 42% to 52% which just made the country barely stable, to updating the production efficiency cap by an extra 10%. Other benefits were 10% extra war support, 10% extra factory output, and an additional 10% construction speed, which provided the momentum that Nova Griffonia needed to build itself up.
The colonial administration of Nova Griffonia was too busy shooting Penguins off their land, to realize how many beneficial resources there were until it was listed as a potential mining spot in the New Economic Policy. Governor Teafeather said in a joke that he remembered that the Dulli mountains were cold, so he'd make sure to supply the Griffon miners with warm clothes to protect them from frostbite.
Private mines aren't enough to bolster the planned economic development layed out in the New Economic Policy. So to carry the objective of mining the resources, Governor Teafeather advocated a part of the budget planned for the New Economic Policy to forming the Beak Mining Company, which will make the mining more centralized and easier to extract the resources from.
Now that Governor Teafeather had secured trade with the Changelings, he can justify putting some of his attention into assessing the state of the military. Three papers laid on his desk, one is about the army, the second is about the navy, and the third is about the air force.
The state of the military informs about critical issues. The army's problem is that it's composed mostly of militras. While it might not be a bad thing, it does need to be addressed in terms of if we want to upscale our military into a national army. The navy's problem is lack of attention. It has a sizable navy, but not enough for what its capable of. The air force's problem is the lack of modernization. No wonder we're considered the backwater of griffonkind.
Kingdom of Olenia
Anti Korruptions Formedligen. The anti corruption measures Johan had put on his cabinet was perhaps a necessary move, but it did stir up resentment against him. Even those Johan wanted to keep around they thought the measures were too extreme. Wasn't Johan supposed to be power so the nobility will keep their privileges just because they happen to be born in the right families. While it was controversial, this was the first step of a transition between a feudalist system to a capitalist system. The bankers and industrialists who don't care who their country ruler is as long as they legalize the economy's laws to suit them. They were able to shoot up the ranks of the cabinet thanks to Johan noticing their competence at finance.
This is the first step into removing the detrimental national spirit of Corrupt Economy.
Johan instituted a home guard for those who want to defend their country, but doesn't want to join the military. The deer who joined because they were patriotic about Johan's rule was a minority. Most joined because it gave them a belief that they could learn fundamental skills to protect their loved ones.
National Spirit: Home Guard: Twelve divisions of Partisans will rise up in Olenia in the case of it being declared war on by another nation. In the case of Olenia declaring war on another nation, the Home Guard won't rise up until enemy troops are to step on Olenian territory. Partisan resistance 5%
Although anti-tank weaponry seems to be at a standstill when it comes to the current model, Johan wants to be faster than the competition. However, Olenia in their glory days was more of a seafaring nation, so to come up with the idea of the model, he hired his carl, Gustaf Manntlerhim, to draw up the requirements for the ideal model that'll work in their backyard. Better yet, the entrepreneurs close to Johan suggested a world wide competition in designing the ideal Olenian anti tank model gun in exchange for a reward from the Olenian military.
The letter of request has been sent to Alda Gunworks, Keisarillen, Nidhogg Industries, Star Enegri, Fillidelphia Motors, Macintosh Factory, the Equestrian government, the Crystal Empire, Stalliongrad, Grey Design, Zayatskiy Avtozavod, Blautad Waffenhauser, Lowenstein, Reichswaffen, Helheim Kannonen and the Griffonian Empire.
Thanks to the state funding of B.Y.G.G, the company increased the export of tungsten, chrome, and steel mined from Olenian soil.
5% extra export on tungsten, chrome, and steel on the world market.
Griffonia
Kingdom of Wingbardy
The order of the King to hand over state power caught everyone, including Beakolini off guard. If Beakolini ruled the nation of Wingbardy like he said he would, the path to the Karthian Empire will be built on the blood of the citizenry who was swept up in the change.
Beakolini is now head of Wingbardy's government
Beakolini strong armed Winbardy's economy to what he wants regardless of the small companies' complaints. When the national oil company popped up, it was financed by the higher up corporations who are invested in Beakolini's rule. Oil was discovered, which provided immediate profit on the investment.
Factories are opened enmassed once again for Griffon workers, particularly to do with
Infantry weapons.
Beakoloni took control of the economy.
If Griffon workers didn't want to go back to the factories, they were allowed to contribute to the government program of modernizing the railway system.
Wingardy's railways have been repaired. And they also run on time now.
The new age is hearalding the arrival of vehicles and trucks, so the Wingbardian military can't avoid to fall behind.
The military of Wingbardy is now fully behind Beakolini. Land doctrine research will benefit under Beakonli's openness to tactical experimentation with either Mobile Warfare Doctrine or Superior Firepower Doctrine.
With his party members secured in the parliament, and the conservative majority fearful of the Communist movement, Beakolini moved to pass congress approved legislature banning the Communist party.
Wingbardy gains National Spirit of Communism Banned
Commonwealth of New Mareland
The Commonwealth was held out on a string by the government budget. It would either be up to the parliament, or Princess Celestia to come in with the extra interest to bounce the economy back up.
The Great Depression is stalled for now. It's not going to be stalled forever through, a deeper solution will be required for the Commonwealth.
The investment into the aerial capacity was planned for before the Great Depression, having that budget not attached to the stock market was worth it. The citizens also appreciated the heavily discounted ferry trip, though richer citizens have the financial freedom to use it the most.
3 air bases has been constructed in Stratus Springs, as well as a bonus in air doctrine research.
In a rare unprecedented move, to combat the despair of the Great Depression, Governor Jet Set had no choice but to legalize the Mutual Help Act. Railways, roads, and hydroelectric buildings were being built all across the country. Although there were segregated divisions of ponies and griffons, they at least cared about improving the infrastructure of the country.
This is a positive first step in addressing the Great Depression.
The independence referendum had been passed to all corners of the country. There's a divide between the population on the independence issue. What will drive the majority of the votes to one side or the other will be the politicians campaigning for what they're passionate about.
Whether New Mareland becomes independent or not is up to the New Mareland player to decide.
River Republic
The Harmony and Stablity Act of 1007 has successfully passed. The reports have come in of satisfying recruitment of new members in the OHS. Though from their contributions so far, they have more sympathies for the National Popular Front, which is why there aren't as much information gathered on them in comparison to the River Alliance Party which has information concerning the number of members they have, and where they tend to recruit them from (poor neighborhoods that have outcasts). As successful as this act was, it's annoying that the leaders like Nova Whirl will factor the improvement in surveillance technology.
OHS is better enabled to crack down on extremist movements. -5% popularity in Communism.
On bills like the River Railways Company of 1007, River Swirl gets more cooperation from the leftist elements in government. Of course, it does great things for the economy. The company has enjoyed great favor from the state and is connecting the infrastructure together.
+1 infrastructure in Neighretva and Coltonia
The schooling reforms went into effort. The education system is reimbursed, River Swirl even attended a couple of school openings out in the rural areas to proclaim a new age of education has begun.
Removes the National Spirit of Negligible Illiteracy
The military reforms went into effort much to the enthusiasm of the military officers involved in carrying them out.
Infantry research bonus. Plus 5% War Support
Skyfall Trade Federation
The expensive ships in the navy got broken down. This will give the incentive to use the materials to build new ships.
It takes less production time to build new ships.
The Skyfall Trade Federation went to work on looking through their spending.
The budget had been going in a steady downfall, however now that the errors are known, the economic minister can make the necessary adjustments and balance the new budget accordingly.
The labor laws got looked into and revised. The Trade Federation even encouraged debates at town halls about possible reforms, and what would be a fair balance between the workers and the industrialists.
The strikes calmed down a little from the onset of progress, but they won't hold their breath.
Weapon merchants went to work, implementing the latest technology advances.
Skyfall Federation is updated on Infantry weapons, and artillery.
Nimbusia
There was a time where pegisi supremacy was an unquestioned philosophy in Nimbusian society. However, being so close to the Bakaran Republic and the River Republic, citizens are eventually going to be enticed by harmonic ideals.
And who better to represent the harmonic transition then Metakeros, an unicorn who's not afraid of challenging the status quo.
10% additional support to the Harmony party.
Nimbusia is a country which has a mountain chain, so it makes sense to start the industry buildup in the capital, Nimbusi.
3 Civilian factories built
It's not that easy for a warrior nation like Nimbusia to fix its poverty issue, but the Draft Horse Program is the financial stabilizer families in the lower castes needed from having to deal with malnutrition.
There's less hungry mouths on the street.
The paperwork had been finished for establishing an intelligence branch of the military. The structure is there now, what will it be its name? Who'll be carrying out the intelligence? And what will be its long time goals?
The intelligence branch of the Nimbusian military has been established, though it doesn't have a name yet. The choice of name will be decided soon.
Gryphian Host
The aid Pavel was able to travel throughout the Griffonian Empire, his most significant note was their Panzers but he's not sure about their implementation given they are less effective in muddy areas. He did also note the effectiveness of the trains, that they were able to transport the nobility from one location to the other faster than if you just flew.
What Pavel was able to discover from traveling through the Riverland adminst suspicious glares was using company monopolies to secure the best river trade routes depending on the country in the River Federation. Pavel decided to just conclude it's also due to the fact river trade was a necessity. So he made a note to himself to encourage the Hetaman to set up trade ports through Gryphian Host to encourage the necessity of river trade.
Knowledge of Griffonian Empire's trains, and Riverlands way of river trading obtained by Pavel from the Gryphian Host
The raids on the Kingdom of Prywhen and the Griffon Liberation Army went remarkably well, surprising the officers of the raid greatly. The Kingdom of Prywhen and the GLA were so concentrated on fighting each other, they weren't expecting another force to flank them, and make off with most of their supplies. This would cause a stalemate for some time, and delay the GLA offensive for now.
1k Infantry Weapons have been looted from the GLA and the Kingdom of Prywhen. As well as Bulba securing 5% extra stability for the Gryphian Host from the successful raid. The Gryphian Host has now 74% stability.
The other members in the City Councils didn't have reason to question Cornilo's decision to increase guard regiments in his city cause they too have similar reasons to dislike the Hetmantle. Lucky for Cornilo, the extra 4 guard regiments were drawn from the Zaphz Youth Communist Movement, so he knows he has loyal backup. But what would this mean for him now that the raid was actually successful?
4 garrison regiments have been added to Zaphz's garrison
The youth of any species are more open to radical ideas than their parents or grandparents. While much to Yeven's frustration, the youth he had reached out to before wasn't interested in national prestige, but instead in labor rights and internationalism. Bleh! A recent tactic which was more successful was appealing to the larger landowning families that if they enroll their young adult kids into his movement, he would give them more privatised property when he eventually gets power.
The Black Council has obtained 10% extra popularity in the last few months
Chiefdom of Farbrook
Cenehelm took precedence over the planning of the event. Food has been prepared, as well as fisher ponies have been hired to find the best seafood for the feast.
The conference has now been set up in the capital of Farbrook, Farbrook.
The offer from Celenheim has been accepted by delegates from the Firtree Villages, Watertowns, and Greneclyf.
The Farbrookian harbor has been expanded to upgrade the facilities so that it'll operate as a better trading port.
3 naval dockyards have been built in Farbrook.
Farbrook has different tribes with their different militias. Instead of forcing them together to form a national army, Cenehelm formed an army from the Ironhelm tribe, the most cooperative tribe to his aims.
5 Fyrd divisions are formed in Farbrook, a convenient security force for the Council.
Dread League
The Master of the Dead made the Coven and the Society get along now. No more mere disputes, now the Dread League can achieve more progress.
Nastrodr has found himself in the parental role of the Dread League. Much like a parent, he had resolved the emotional conflict between the Coven of Blood, and the Society of Bones, but he'll need to keep a tight hoof, or paw, or claw on both of them so that minor squabbles won't turn into huge arguments down the line.
There's now only a few complaints from the Ghouls about discrimination, but that can be ignored because almost all of the Ghouls had their needs met. They can now go for roles that have more meaning for them. Now they have to do their part for the Dread League.
Ghouls are now a predictable factor for the Dread League to plan for.
The north of Griffonia is highly un-industralized compared to the rest of Griffonia. The vampires' supernatural powers do lend them a great hand in going undetected, but they were only able to find blueprints of Muzzle-loaders, an outdated design for guns. They weren't able to find any pony or griffon who fills the role of what Nastrodr described as a gunsmith yet.
Dread League now has access to Muzzle-loading guns.
The last few months of teaching the mindless spawns how to hold weaponry was the most painful experience that Nastrodr ever had. To think that those without a brain wouldn't know how to do something with motor functions. Considering the amount of ponypower he has, imagine how many bullets would come out from those guns. But it's not like he has the industry to make all the required guns. The best thing he and the Council of Bones could come with for now is create a spell to the mindless spawn and zombies of how to input the trigger to fire a bullet. It doesn't help that now because of them being mindless, a few members of the Council of Bones have been killed due to misfires.
Undead can now fire Muzzle-loaders. The Council of Bones is minorly upset with the new firearm strategy.
1. Better Internal Security: Things withen the Skyfall Trade Federation have been tense for quite awhile, so it stands to reason that the Lady Councillor will be very keen on finding out the loyalties of her advisors and high society members, for the future of Skyfall, none of the secret societies must continue to grip at the Market.
2. Offers for Fezera: Seeing that their Neighbors in Fezera are facing great poverty, the Trade Council decides to make a offer to the land owners around their border to sell their land to Skyfall for a reasonable price as well as a open offer to the Griffons of Fezera to work in the land for fair pay.
3. Expand the Steel Mills: With the economic reforms and labor laws now making change to Skyfall, the Steel Mills of the Nation must be expanded upon, for new workers and for better conditions for said workers, Skyfall must continue it's economic growth.
4. Navel Trade with [REDACTED]: With a offer from a interested party, Ferdinand von Hochsklaue and Lady Genevieve Guildedwing decide to sell a clawful of their outdated ships of the old Imperial fleet. In return for theses ships, the interested party agrees to allow Skyfall Traders to trade in their Ports and Lands
Friendly Waters The HOMS Hjortland, off the coast of its namesake.
As Admiral Lysander dominated the news in Equus with his exploration of Eastern Griffonia, his counterpart, Admiral Mimic, has been on foreign adventures of his own. After examining Olenian naval infrastructure for potential trade agreements, he expressed interest in the so called 'Pansarskepp' or 'Armored Ship' designs making up the core of the Olenian Navy. Unlike contemporary ships of their weight class, the small coastal defense ships are unusually slow, short-range, and heavily armed and armored, in addition to being able to operate in shallow waters and having an icebreaking bow. While some may question if that combination is what the Changeling Empire needs at the moment, Admiral Mimic, never one to take the normal path, immediately placed an order for modern ships of a similar style and weight class. It's still unclear what the exact form of the ships will come to be due to the spontaneity of the deal. The hybrid coal/oil fuel of the older designs was seen favorably in the face of modern oil shortages, while the Olenian KEISAR 40mm anti-air gun impressed with its purported superiority to equivalents. Internal Changeling discussion also brings up possible standardization with a future long-range 'Panzerschiffe' design of similar weight and preparations for advanced spotting and targeting systems to be added outside the nation for security reasons.
In any case, the Changeling announcement of the purchase from Olenia for 10 as-of-yet-unspecified ships at only a slightly more than normal price has revealed a strategy shift in Olenian attempts to maintain neutrality between the two World Powers on its borders.
Massive Naval Spending: A massive part of the Federation's budget is spent on maintaining the outdated and quite frankly useless Imperial Fleet.
Cons: Massive Economic strain on Skyfall, less Factory Output
Skyfall Naval Tradition: The Federation has a naval tradition stretching back centuries.
Pros: Navel experience, Better Naval production
The Woodpeckers Society: Effectively a secret society encompassing the majority of the Federation's leadership, the Woodpeckers are an ancient and entrenched part of everyday politics within Skyfall and beyond.
Cons: Secret Society, Less Stability
The Great Strike: The Federation is currently facing the greatest organized strike in Griffonian history.
Cons: less factory output, less Stability, slight Communism influence
