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Matsudaira Tarou - President I am saddened by the death of President Enomoto. He was like a father to me, and a father to our Republic. As recompense for his death, I have ordered the entire family of Itakura Katsukiyo to commit seppuku for the dishonor of their kinsman. I take the burden of responsibility of my new position quite seriously, and I will not rest until Ezo has achieved domestic and international peace and stability. We have weathered the initial storm, but there will be more to come. The Meiji will only lick their wounds for so long, and like any wounded animal they will learn from their mistakes and prepare to attack again. For my first order of business, I hereby award the Order of the Asarum with Grand Cordon posthumously to the deceased President Enomoto Takeaki. This is the highest order of our nation, and I can think of no better man to be the first to receive it than the Patriarch of our great country. OOC:(counterpart to the Order of the Chrysanthemum, since the Asarum is the crest of the Tokugawa) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Order_of_the_Chrysanthemum For my second order of business I appoint Hijikata Toshizō as Vice-President. For my third order of business I request a status update on the condition of Ezo's economy and infrastructure from Matsudaira Naritami and Matsumae Takahiro. I give them authority to use the Captured Meiji POW's as a labor force to rebuild whatever is necessary as punishment for their crimes against the state of Ezo. Submit an updated budget for me to review. For my fourth order of business I request a mass trial and sentencing for the Meiji POWs from Matsudaira Naritami. I will have more business and updates in the coming days, where I will address security, foreign affairs, and diplomatic relations. Pinche Rudo fucked around with this message at 16:24 on Apr 15, 2014 |
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Apr 15, 2014 16:03
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Colonel Wood posted:For my third order of business I request a status update on the condition of Ezo's economy and infrastructure from Matsudaira Naritami and Matsumae Takahiro. I give them authority to use the Captured Meiji POW's as a labor force to rebuild whatever is necessary as punishment for their crimes against the state of Ezo. Very well. I already mentioned Ezo resources and methods of its exploitation some time ago, so let's talk about our transport and industry.  As we can see on this map, there are some challenges we need to overcome to effectively exploit resources on our island. The first one is topography. There are several mountain ranges that effectively split Ezo into several parts. Currently this was not an issue, because the majority of our settlements are close to the shore. Regardless of this, transport of goods through the land will be difficult. This unique topography presents some boons as well. For example, because of the same mountains that obstruct transport, the interior of the island is much more supportive to agriculture than its shores: the winters inside are milder. There is also a lot of valuable resources placed in the middle of Ezo - most notably, timber and coal. Four major rivers present us with opportunity to send rafts both north and south, which will have to do for now. However, this method of transport excludes Hakodate, when currently most of our industry is. Our resilience on transport fleets is another challenge. Most of our goods have to be shipped between the cities, because transporting similar amounts through the land is too costly and time-consuming. But this situation is far from being perfect. Our shipments are threatened by adverse weather events and hostile fleets. While the war with Meiji Empire can potentially end, I don't see an easy solution for storms and occasional tsunamis. Both of this problems could be potentially remedied by trains. Europeans have these steel steam-driven vehicles that can pull humungous loads. The problem is that they can't travel normal roads. They require special tracks made of iron or steel - two sets of them, in fact, if we want to send more than one train back and forth through the same track. I were assured the effect is worth the cost. One train can transport as much goods as a large ship, following a quicker and safer route. And, of course, it can go where a ship simply can't. For that very reason, building railways should become a priority. As for industry, there isn't much to talk about. We still lack effective means of processing goods, relying mostly on artisans, both Ainu and Yamato. We already talked about supplies of coal and iron, but this isn't enough: we need industrial machines. Buying them from the West is certainly possible, but in the long run we should aim to learn how to build our own. Our foreign partners will probably want us to buy them from their merchants. They will push us to adopt their laws, which only lets companies "own" methods of production and prevent anyone else from replicating them. From obvious reasons, this is something we should absolutely delay until we have our own engineers who can compete with the British or French. We should concentrate on acquiring plans for several simple and useful machines and slowly develop our industrial base from there. The government absolutely should set up crucial factories to ensure control over the whole industry of Ezo. This means at least several mines, ironworks, machine shops and shipyards. This concludes the main part of my report. Are there any questions?
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Apr 15, 2014 18:25
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Stalin-Chan fucked around with this message at 02:44 on Apr 16, 2014 |
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Apr 16, 2014 02:07
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Hijikata Toshizō, The Demon of the Shinsengumi quote:Letter to Kasuga Saemon
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Apr 17, 2014 19:34
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Colonel Wood posted:Matsudaira Tarou - President Matsudaira Naritami  It is a time of transition for our grand Republic, a time of victory and of mourning. With the crushing victory we have gained over the forces of emperor Meji we have struck a blow for our nation's destiny against those who would keep us chained. But with the Shogun's removal and the cold blooded murder of the President we have much sober reflection to do. On to the pressing business of finance. As it stands we will run a very slight deficit this coming quarter owing to the disruptions caused by warfare and by the increasing amount of bandit activity in the interior. Both of these have solutions in time, as the last battle puts our nation beyond threat of immediate invasion and we can use a strong police action to reign in the banditry in the countryside from our own citizens. However they highlight problems that we have with our nations finances overall. Our internal security serves as the greatest current drain on our resources and is still lacking in comparison to that of the Meji. We must make efficient use of our resources and begin to demobilise our militias generally, whilst maintaining the necessary skills and equipment for them to be efficiently deployed. Thus I would ask that the minister of Education begin to think of how best to see this through, though I would personally recommend setting up schooling areas across the land to ensure that all men have a grasp of defence. The most pressing weakness however lies in how much we are forced to rely on taxes, particularly when disruption can effect the collection of them so much. All of us can note from the budget that whilst our tax income has continually fluctuated our trade income never has. The high taxes we demand of some areas are unacceptable to many and only increases the resentment that some quarters have towards our nation. Therefore I am formally ceasing my claiming of stipend in order to better contribute to our nation. It is my considered opinion that we should, temporarily, ask for contributions from all Samurai who possess funds and property in excess of 2 Credits towards the stabilisation of the republics finances for the future. I ask this not just as a finance minister but as a friend to many of these people, I ask that they make it obvious how invested they our in the nation by making voluntary contributions. Those who obviously cannot exist without the stipend must continue to claim it, but to have so much destruction happen to our fair state and not have those most able contribute is a worrying sign. As a final option I would call on our Foreign Minister (OOC: If this is dropped whoever is appointed NPC foreign minister) to attempt to negotiate trade routes with European possessions in the greater region. This will allow us both closer links with European trade and allow us to show the peoples of these nations the true prosperity that we can bring to their shores. I agree with the recently appointed minister of Industry, train travel will most likely be a new and useful device for the entire nation, and I will be attempting to set aside as much of the budget as possible for the completion of a national railway, alongside the creation and renovation of any industrial areas in the Capital. Our lumber industry must be supported by the replanting of trees however, and careful shepherding of our resources will leave further dividends in the long term. I would also propose that we continue to seek more men to come to Ezo, we need workers in greater numbers than ever if we are to become truly capable of defending ourselves without the losses incurred from Meji attacks. To do this I would propose the following: the suggestion of the economic advisor Horace Capron that some 2000 Chinese citizens be allowed to move here with the understanding that 500 of them may stay beyond the 5 year limit and that they operate within the foreign quarter. Secondly that any person of Japanese ancestry who comes to Meji be treated with full respect of our constitution and are reminded that the wages here are far higher than those of our misguided cousins across the strait. Alongside this I would also suggest that we finally set up a true centre for our government beyond the current ruin in our city. My proposal will seem obvious to many but that it should be the Shogunal palace that is made into the new home of the cabinet. I have already been working to ensure that we can accommodate ourselves comfortably and safely within the palace complex, though if others wish to continue meeting here or seek another alternative I will happily argue my case, but at present the complex is really our only current option. As a final item the Shogun has asked me to recommend people to receive honours based on their conduct during the invasion. Thus am I happy to announce that: Thomas Blakiston is promoted to the status of Honourary Samurai and given a vote in the legislative for his sterling conduct during the battle of the Strait and his exemplary courage in the face of danger. Similarly I would like to announce that Jules Brunet, co-father of our proud republic is hereby considered to possess Samurai status, due to his constant efforts to defend our republic, his personal courage and aid to us. To Hikaru Terejima, for aiding this great republic and proving that all have a place within its fold I hereby both promote him to Samurai status and formally ask that he and his kins men consider themselves under the full protection and patronage of the Matsudaira. And for her sterling work in the defence of the dockyards, and having personally certified the authenticity of her paperwork, I hereby grant Saeki Fumiko formal recognition of her Samurai status. This does not lead her the power to vote, but should prove as a reminder to all that everyone must do their part for our nation. May the Kami bless us and keep us from harm. 10,000 Years to the Republic! 10,000 Years to the Shogun! 10,000 Years to the people of Ezo! Josef bugman fucked around with this message at 22:50 on Apr 18, 2014 |
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Apr 18, 2014 22:38
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 Jules Brunet Special Adviser to the President, Private Military Contractor, Businessman, Actual Commodore, Believer in Bootstraps, Co-father of Ezo I am most honored by the sign of respect of Regent Matsudaira, but I must respectfully decline. While there is precedent for samurai of European heritage, such men were forced to effectively cast off their past lives in the process. While I love the Republic of Ezo, so too do I love la belle France. We must too consider the current instability - perhaps once order has been restored, we can reconsider the matter. Again, my utmost thanks for the great honor which has been bestowed upon me. Long live the Republics! However, on behalf of France I must officially request an explanation for the crimes committed by the thug currently serving as Army Minister. Diplomatic missions are protected throughout the civilized world, and his destruction of them at the hands of his pet mob is a crime in the eyes of all civilized men. sniper4625 fucked around with this message at 03:26 on Apr 19, 2014 |
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Apr 19, 2014 03:11
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AP results Shogeton (Horace Capron) accidentally gets best turn because the whims of the GM are ever mysterious and magical. As always, email the GMs if there were any errors. Turn 7 due Thursday, April 24, at 11:59PM (CST, UTC -6). Maximo Roboto fucked around with this message at 04:04 on Apr 25, 2014 |
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Apr 22, 2014 23:57
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Matsudaira Naritami Chancellor to the Shogun, Finance minister, put-upon bureaucrat It has transpired that several amongst the wider community have complained as to the Shogunates latest actions. Let it be known that it is in no way against the republics laws what I have been asked to communicate to you by the Shogun. It has however made me understand that we need a firm hand here in order to make it obvious to all that the Republic is here to stay, therefore I would like to announce a new piece of legislation: quote:Official War Aid Act This may be unpopular, but it is what is required to make the realm function than so be it. (OOC: Seriously guys do post, otherwise I am going to keep getting away with all this crazy poo poo)
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Apr 23, 2014 20:07
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Jules Brunet Special Adviser to the President, Private Military Contractor, Businessman, Actual Commodore, Believer in Bootstraps, Suggester of Bills I most fervently support the act proposed by our new Finance Minister - in this time of crisis, let all do their part! Furthermore, I shall propose a bill of my own. Bill 2 - The Naval Auxiliary Bill posted:
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Apr 23, 2014 20:19
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 Ooka Tametomo, High Judge of the Ezo Supreme Court, Samurai letter to Ooka Tametomo's wife posted:...
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Apr 23, 2014 22:09
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Matsudaira Sadaaki 松平 定敬 (S) 陸軍奉行 (Army Minister) Enough is enough. There are times when a man must stand back and hold his tongue. There are times when a man must respect the decisions of others, even when they disagree with them. These traits are important for the stability of society, and preservation of traditional hierarchical order. A respectful man knows when to obey authority, and to respect the offices that have been in place for hundreds of years. But, a man must also when not to hold back. Sometimes these offices are abused, and if this is left untreated, the system will rot from inside. This is one of those times. My esteemed relative, Matsudaira Naritami, is abusing his position as the Shogun's Chancellor to push his own liberal agenda. From his recent actions, it is clear that his loyalties lie more with gaijins than with the samurai class. While he hands out rewards to the hairy barbarians he takes away rewards from noble samurai. I hereby call for his immediate resignation, and the annulment of all acts he has carried in the Shogun's name. Upon his resignation or removal from office, he should be replaced with a more loyal and competent Matsudaira clan member. I nominate myself. Retainers to the Tokugawa Shogunate, if you are truly loyal, then join me in removing this man from his office!
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Apr 24, 2014 00:07
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Jules Brunet Special Adviser to the President, Private Military Contractor, Businessman, Actual Commodore, Believer in Bootstraps, Scoffer of Crooks The criminal seeks to be made regent? Shameful!
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Apr 24, 2014 00:13
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Matsudaira Naritami Chancellor to the Shogun, Finance minister Under what grounds should I be removed? Have I aided a known criminal? Have I endangered the life or office of the Shogunate? Have I endangered our republic or the people therein? Friends, we stand at a crossroads, my relative appears to believe that it is he and he alone who can till the future of our fine republic, but I would say that the future belongs to all of those within this chamber. We cannot let our chance to capitalize upon the weakness of the Meji be undone by an army minister who would rather spend time raising mobs than fighting, we cannot have a strong political party if it is run by someone who would sooner spend time associating with murderers than Samurai and defenders of the Republic. I ask merely that I be allowed to continue in my current role as adviser and regent to the Shogun and as finance minister for this body. If my cousin would wish to settle this peaceably then that will be fine, but for now I advise him to hold his rage for the Meji, instead of for hard working servants of the realm.
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Apr 24, 2014 00:22
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Matsudaira Sadaaki 松平 定敬 (S) 陸軍奉行 (Army Minister) Your actions in the Shogun's name do harm to his office and to the samurai as a whole. If your trend of weakening traditions were to continue, we would end up just like the Meiji where being a samurai means absolutely nothing. Your words against me are weak and petty. You claim that I haven't been defending the Republic? Did you not even look at what was going out there on the battlefield? It was my army and my leadership that threw the Meiji army off these shores. I have no personal anger towards you. I merely wish to undo the harm that you are doing to the shogun's authority. If you wish to settle things peacefully, then you should step down humbly.
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Apr 24, 2014 00:38
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Matsudaira Tarou - President This is nonsense. I cannot tolerate any more of your blatant disregard for law and order, Matsudaira Sadaaki. I hereby remove you from the position of Army Minister. You have brought dishonor to our government. I also order the sale of Katsu Kaishu's seized land holdings and that part of the profit be used to repair the damage done by Matsudaira Sadaaki and his mobs.
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Apr 24, 2014 00:43
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Jules Brunet Special Adviser to the President, Private Military Contractor, Businessman, Actual Commodore, Believer in Bootstraps, Co-Father of the Republic I am heartened by the actions of the President with regards to the criminal. Long live the friendship between our grand Republics!
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Apr 24, 2014 00:49
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 Thomas Blakiston It is a bittersweet day for the Republic, as I am sure you all know. Sweet in the island's defence, bitter in the loss of President Enomoto - a flawed man, yes, a man I often criticized, but a true patriot nonetheless. I can only offer my condolences to his family and my condemnation of his murderers, who have all fortunately received their just desserts already. I also offer my congratulations to all those who participated in the defence of Ezo, especially my comrade Jules Brunet and our great mercenary company that he led so effectively in battle. All of our men proved themselves true soldiers beyond a shadow of a doubt, as I hope we all proved ourselves true friends to Ezo. I thank Chancellor Matsudaira for the honour he has bestowed upon me, so long as it is understood that I can accept only honorary status and nothing more. It would not be right for me to have access to the stipend or the right to vote, as I am still first and foremost a subject of Her Majesty Queen Victoria. Nor would it make sense for me to be classified as a samurai for economic purposes, as I am still a foreigner in the eyes of the law. But as a gesture of goodwill and friendship, I would be honoured to accept the designation. I know that many in Ezo are upset that the former shogun was transferred into my power after the trial. I understand why some would be concerned. However, I must explain what occurred. President Enomoto insisted upon the transfer - neither I nor the United Kingdom requested it. I will not speculate as to his reasons, especially now that he has departed the world and cannot explain them himself. I will simply say that I took on responsibility for the shogun's punishment because I was asked to. I was then faced with the dilemma of what to do with my prisoner. Upon my meeting with the shogun in private aboard my ship, he wept most viciously, overcome by his burning self-loathing. He confessed that he had brought eternal shame upon himself by murdering his sister, and that no redemption was possible for such an awful crime. He cursed himself as a soulless monster, bereft of dignity or humanity. He begged me to have him executed in the most torturous ways possible - I shall spare you all the details - so as to perhaps restore some tiny sliver of his utterly abandoned honour by accepting a deserved punishment. I must confess that for all that I had once longed to visit sweet revengeance upon him, his most pathetic display moved me, and I felt a spark of sympathy within my heart. I saw within him a scrap of the humanity whose existence he denied. Not enough to forgive him his most heinous crimes, of course, but enough to realize that he should be given one final chance at some form of redemption. And so I offered him the chance to commit seppuku, and die with some vestiges of honour. And that is why I have returned him to Ezo, where he will be held at a secret location - under heavy guard, of course - until such a time as he has prepared himself for his final journey. Once he has taken his own life, his body will be turned over to the proper authorities to do with as they please - it matters not to me whether he is given a burial fit for a shogun or a common criminal, so long as justice is done in life. I hope that this will satisfy those who had concerns about a former shogun being executed on British soil.
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Apr 24, 2014 00:53
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Horace Capron I am gladdened by the removal of Matsudaira Sadaaki. This will definitely improve the diploamtic solution of the Ezo Republic. Now, there is the issue of the Meiji troops that are engaging in banditry. However, I have a proposal. These are men that might not want to fight to the death. They don't know whether there's another option for them to do anything else than supply themselves with robbery and theft. And of course, they are not samurai. They are mainly conscripts. I believe that we can turn this problem into an opportunity. Thus I propose the Their Swords into Our Plowshares act. That any of the Meiji forces currently on the Ezo Republic be allowed to surrender their arms and either be returned to their homeland, or choose to build a new life here if they so choose. Any man who chooses this is a man who we will not need to fight, it might be a man willing to work, or if we send him home, speak well of us. It will improve our standing in the world, and draw us as the civilized nation, compared to the barbaric Meiji. Something sorely needed right now. Also, might some of us speak to the foreign ambassador that asks our help? It's not really my position to speak first, but we've been ignoring him.
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Apr 24, 2014 01:09
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Matsudaira Sadaaki 松平 定敬 (S) Leader of the Sakura Party So that is how it is. Fine. That is within the President's power. However, the Republic is a system of checks and balances, which allows me to submit the following to the House of Representatives: quote:Impeachment Declaration Act Takanago fucked around with this message at 01:27 on Apr 24, 2014 |
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Apr 24, 2014 01:17
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Matsudaira Naritami Chancellor to the Shogun, Finance minister I am most grateful to the President for his apparent confidence in me, but alongside this I would like to address two Legal matters, perhaps instead of suicide the family of the Presidents Assassin should be allowed to donate a sum to the government, alongside letting their sons join the Shogunal militia. This demotion would surely prove to be a sign of our disfavour, without the needless propaganda victory for the Meji. And, after consultation with Ooka Tametomo, I consider my self capable of judging the captured soldiers of the false emperor Meji. Ergo they are to be put to work as part of the Industrial ministries new train projects, to ensure their co-operation I would ask that Saeki Fumiko's militia be put to use in ensuring that they do not cause any trouble for the people of our fair republic. I also back the Swords into Plowshares Act I would wish to challenge this assertion, as a member of the Sakura party I would ask all of those who would put the republic ahead of blind ambition to stand with both myself and the president at this pressing time. Josef bugman fucked around with this message at 01:31 on Apr 24, 2014 |
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Apr 24, 2014 01:24
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Matsudaira Tarou - President I hereby announce the Domestic Safety and Stability of Ezo Act Inciting or participating in mob violence, destruction, or violent civil unrest or disturbance is punishable by a minimum of 10 years in prison to a maximum penalty of death, depending on the severity of said unrest. Also, I nominate Kasuga Saemon as new Army Minister. His bravery, leadership, and distinguished service record make him an excellent candidate to lead our nation's army going forward. Pinche Rudo fucked around with this message at 01:48 on Apr 24, 2014 |
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Apr 24, 2014 01:27
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Ooka Tametomo, High Judge of the Ezo Supreme Court, Samurai A Letter to President Matsudaira posted:Sir, A similar letter was sent to the former Army Minister with the appropriate contextual changes made. Paper With Lines fucked around with this message at 02:13 on Apr 24, 2014 |
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Apr 24, 2014 02:09
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 Thomas Crusoe Open Letter to Matsudaira Sadaaki I'm challenging you to a duel. Now I know custom dictates that you, as a samurai, are by some sort of backward-looking chivalrous integrity only allowed to fight fellow samurai, but, seeing as I'm not a samurai and you aren't really a man, I figure we can meet half-way on this point of honor. Please don't mistake my questioning your manhood as a sign of impertinence, for in America we're accustomed to calling a spade a spade. You can find me on Ainu land any time, day or night.
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Apr 24, 2014 02:35
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E:nvm
Namtab fucked around with this message at 06:36 on Apr 24, 2014 |
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Apr 24, 2014 06:09
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OOC: Might want to understand that constitutional interpretation is an in character thing.  It would be nice if you didn't gently caress with my comments. Regardless, I am fully aware of precedent. Calm down.
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Apr 24, 2014 06:32
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Hijikata Toshizō, The Demon of the Shinsengumi Let me get this, we want to impeach the president because he has dismissed Sadaaki for inciting mob violence that led to the assassination of the Enomoto by one of his own high ranking party members while he goes around and attack embassies while foreigners are dying alongside us?  Oh well, who is ready for an attempted coup since we now have another military minister dismissed? The merry-go-round never ends!
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Apr 24, 2014 15:15
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Oh goons  Remember that  orders are due tonight at midnight CST . If you really can't get them in today, make sure to get them in tomorrow!
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Apr 25, 2014 01:16
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Shogun Concerning my honorable death. It has been agreed that I will commit my seppuku in a public square in full of view of the people of ezo, in the city of Hokkaido, as I have always found its cheery trees beautiful this time of year. Good bye ezo. 性交イングランド
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Apr 25, 2014 03:13
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Hijikata Toshizō, The Demon of the ShinsengumiFall Sick and Die posted:
Noticing this man arriving and the foreign minister busy elsewhere he gives the still bloody sever head to his second in command. "How can we help you?" Hijikata tries to find two chairs so that they can sit down and converse in the always smoldering ruins of Hokodate Harbor. "I apologize for my government's tardy welcoming but you can see we've been busy. So you like tea?" Motions for an aide to being tea for himself and his established guest.
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Apr 25, 2014 03:33
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 Saeki Fumiko I thank Matsudaira Naritami for bestowing me with the same honor of my father before me: the title of Samurai. I willingly give up to Ezo any associated stipend. I would prefer to see it used to make our land prosper and to make it safe. I would like to take this moment to make a suggestion for the sake of the future of Ezo. As I am unable to vote, this suggestion is left to my male compatriots to decide. I hope they look upon it kindly. Much talk has been made of Ezo's future, Ezo's modernization. But the underpinning of any such effort is a strong system of education. At present, only those with the title of Samurai are officially educated, and only those that are moneyed can otherwise afford to educate their children appropriately. I believe that, if we are to become truly great, we must educate as much of our populace as we can, at least with the fundamentals of mathematics, Japanese, and a foreign language: perhaps either English or French, as both English-speaking and Francophone nations have been great allies of Ezo. These skills will allow the children of today to be great merchants or great inventors or perhaps even the great warriors of tomorrow, no matter their birth - and we saw at the docks that they certainly have the potential. I propose the establishment of a network of voluntary schools across Ezo, who will accept anyone as a student, regardless of origin. These schools will teach, as noted above, fundamental skills that will help future generations continue to being prosperity to Ezo. In this time of economic need, there is a question of the cost of this proposal. I do not think the cost of my proposal will be significant, especially in the long term. Like me, there are many who are passionate about educating (and, I might add, many more who would come to Ezo for the opportunity to do so). Our passion is not bounded by our wages. I and many others would require no salary, living rather off the kindness of others. The main cost would be construction of the buildings, which would also not be significant - an educator does not need a palace. I hope you look upon this proposal with kind eyes.
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Apr 25, 2014 07:24
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If the government does not take up the proposal, I believe the GEDC shall. An educated populace is a prosperous populace.
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Apr 25, 2014 07:28
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Remember that orders are past due, send them in, it's not too late! Also, if you have a proposal, make sure someone submits it officially soon as a bill! cxcxxxxx posted:Shogun The UK is イギリス, get it right!
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Apr 26, 2014 00:05
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OOC: Going to be out and about for the next day and will have limited time to check but if anyone wants me to make any ammendments to the finance section of anything please send me an email to: josefbugman.gm @gmail.com
Josef bugman fucked around with this message at 08:07 on Apr 26, 2014 |
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Apr 26, 2014 01:37
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Spoilers don't stop bots from seeing your email FYI
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Apr 26, 2014 02:11
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Katsu Kaishū (勝 海舟) The traitors of Ezo continue to make clear their ineptitude and treachery. Without the guidance of the Emperor, all are truly lost to their baser natures.
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Apr 26, 2014 04:05
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Matsudaira Tarou - President I hereby announce the nomination of Saeki Fumiko as Education Minister. She has shown herself worthy of the title of Samurai and has brought honor to her clan, and she has shown herself worthy of being Education minister. While some will have concerns about her gender, many teachers are female and she can best communicate with them and gain their trust and confidence. In addition, I will work on a new budget proposal shortly.
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Apr 26, 2014 04:47
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 Enomoto Michiakira Takanago posted:Matsudaira Sadaaki 松平 定敬 (S) This act is completley outrageous and has no basis in anything. From what I can see, the current President's crimes consist entirely of removing you from position as Army Minister, which seems just in the wake of the mob violence you caused that indirectly allowed the death of Enomoto Takeaki. Colonel Wood posted:Matsudaira Tarou - President
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Apr 26, 2014 06:27
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While the update will be finished soon, here is a reminder of some good new characters to join as: (S) denotes official samurai status Hikaru Terajima (S) - Hero of the battle of Okushiri Island, fisherman and patriot, now elevated to samurai status colonel Tenshin Ishiguro - Meiji colonel, now POW, veteran of the battle of Hakodate and commander of Meiji forces at Mt. Hakodate, elected to remain in Ezo under amnesty Shogun Tokugawa Satotaka (S) - new Shogun, but 13 years old, so any actions would be severely limited. Currently in a more restrictive regency. Konda Torazo - Prominent Buddhist priest and advocate of pure land buddhism. Kudo Eizo - Prominent merchant specializing in the import of industrial materials for Ezo's budding industry. Egami Makoto - Local drunk known for his ability to drink 2 gallons of sake in one sitting and live. Setsuhaya, son of Tsukinoeaino (Bear Star Clan) - rejects his father's conciliatory approach towards the Japanese, still sees them as invaders to be gradually expelled. Ogasawara Nagamichi (S) - a formerly prominent Tokugawa official, previously ruler of the Karatsu Domain, has much experience dealing with the British Russia - Karl von Struve - Karl von Struve is the representative of the Russian Empire in Ezo, and has thus far served to convey Russia’s favor toward Ezo. Russia in large part does this to head off any potential Franco-Japanese moves against its Far East possessions. Is of German birth, but Russian loyalty. Hanzo Koi (S)- Chief Shinsengumi investigator, friend and right hand man to Hijikata Toshizo. Veteran of the battle against Meiji. Remember that some of the best characters have been entirely fictional or designed by the players. So make one up if you want! All are welcome to join - come on IRC through the link in the OP, channel #bop, if you're nervous or have any questions!
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May 1, 2014 22:49
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Update 7: Quarter 3 (July - September) 1878 International News Hong Kong Phooey I accept my fate… let me die with dignity - Tokugawa Kamenosuke No. We may still have a use for you - British Colonel Robert Tatkey Deep in a prison somewhere in Kowloon Walled City, Hong Kong, the former shogun Tokugawa Kamenosuke, son of the last Shogun to rule in Edo, languishes away in prison. The British have reportedly placed the child shogun on suicide watch, as attempts to take his own life have thus far failed. A hasty trial was assembled in Hong Kong, in which Kamenosuke was officially found guilty and sentenced for the murder of British citizens, a sentence which would normally carry the penalty of death. However, wishing to avoid an international incident, the British instead transferred the former shogun to a prison in Hong Kong, and have since ensured he is under constant surveillance to avoid him committing an act that would both remove his utility and restore his honor in the eyes of his countrymen.  Ahistorical footnote: Due to the increased British presence in Far Eastern affairs, in part due to Thomas Blakiston’s meddling, the British pursue an increasingly aggressive policy and seized the Walled City several decades before they did so historically. (+Imprisoned Former Shogun in Hong Kong) On the Innocence of Bushi This is an absolute outrage. This pissant republic of half-savages has received decades of support from France. They cannot be allowed to harm the interest of Frenchmen and Christians any further. The opinion of drunken adventurers and merchantmen be damned! - Josselin Delacroix, French envoy Fallout from the Deliverance Day Riots and battle of Tokyo Bay are immediate. The Germans, already viewing the Republic of Ezo as a breakaway state separate from their ally, withdraw their staff immediately, and many German businessmen similarly depart for safer isles, namely those to the south. The sudden departure of Consul Balz (interestingly, on the eve of the Meiji attack) doesn’t help things either. To add further injury to injury, the German-run hospital, the Iron Chancellor Hall of Scienceworks and Medics Obscura, where the former Finance Minister was brutally re-beaten and unceremoniously urinated upon, and where President Enomoto was ultimately assassinated, experience a certain braindrain, as most of the German staff, administrators, and advisors leave, not wishing to suffer further humiliations, nor danger. (--German diplomatic ties, -German trade ties, -future of Iron Chancellor Hall Hospital in jeopoardy) The British reaction is more muted but almost as negative, buoyed somewhat by the turnover of the Shogun Kamenosuke to their custody. Still bitter over the Russian treaty and general pro-Russian stance of Ezo, and wary of an ever expanding France, Britain has become considerably to Ezo than in years past. Britain has further demanded 1 million dollars in restitution (1 credit) for the loss of its ship and damages to its citizens and property in the Deliverance Day riots if relations are to be normalized. (-Anglo-Ezo Relations, +Demands for restitution) The French, having long viewed themselves as the guardian and protectors of Ezo, largely dismissed the various concerns of the foreign powers. Their commitment to Ezo was reaffirmed in a number of statements, most of which highlighted the fair treatment of Christians in Ezo relative to their Meiji counterparts. France’s alliance remains strong, and is its support is unlikely to disappear anytime soon, especially as Jules Brunet continues to rally French support for Ezo’s cause. French investors further continue to be among Ezo’s top patrons, in addition to Capron’s American contacts. The American representatives, for their part, are rather more sympathetic to the position of the Ezo government. Thanks to Capron’s entreaties (and more so, to the lucrative contracts he had forged in the region on behalf of the United States, as well as the place’s newly-minted designation as a dumping ground for troublesome elements such as the Know-Nothings), the State Department issues statements to the effect of recognizing that the civil disturbances were unfortunate events unsanctioned by the Ezo government. With the explicit expressing that for the future viability of relations with Ezo depended upon maintenance of law and order. An American representative adds another coda: in the interests of tranquility and free enterprise in the Far East, it would be best for the Republic of Ezo to settle its internal affairs with the Empire of Japan. Certainly the two nations being made of the same race and culture should make things quite easy, shouldn’t it? Why just look at the Americans themselves, and the Brits. Ezo could be the rest of Japan’s Canada, why not. Not to put too fine a point on it, but in short America’s continued relations to Ezo would require conciliation between the republic and the Meiji regime. (~American support of Ezo continues if law and order is maintained, and contingent upon peace in the Far East) Revenge of the Samurai It is time for the sleeping giant to see our terrible resolve. - President Matsudaira Tarou Taking advantage of its recent military victories, the government of Ezo acted quickly to strike back against Meiji for the first time since the Sado operations. Utilizing the massive spy network Ezo had spent the previous decade cultivating among dissident Meiji and potential escapees, and in the process had established many contacts, and invested considerable resources into training them and preparing them for offensive operations. The time had finally come, and in coordination with their covert brothers, a massive attack was launched within Meiji Japan against military targets. The focus of the operations would largely be the Meiji Japan’s naval infrastructure, though some army concentrations were also targeted, and some high ranking officers would find themselves vulnerable to attack. Meiji Japan was largely caught off guard by the scope and ferocity of the attacks, even if it wasn’t wholly surprised by Ezo taking advantage of the momentum of the conflict and attempting to harm Meiji Japan as it licked its wounds. Meiji Japan had withdrawn most of its large naval forces back to the northern port of Aomori, and this is where Ezo focused its efforts. Ezo naval forces set forth to attempt to cripple the Meiji fleet in port, as covert agents on shore set fire to many dockside buildings and attempted to cause disarray in the communications of the Meiji fleet so that it would not be able to react to Ezo’s operations. In this regard, the operation was a success, and the Meiji frigate in port awaiting repairs was pummeled by fire from Ezo’s newly purchased French frigates, and in the process crippled beyond repair. An additional handful of smaller ships were also damaged in the operation, and Meiji’s fleet was further damaged beyond its losses at sea. (-Meiji frigate, -Further Meiji ships, -Morale to Meiji navy) Elsewhere in Meiji, covert agents supported by the shinsengumi and Ezo government set fire to important government buildings and generally terrorized Meiji garrisons, focusing largely on psychological warfare to intimidate Meiji and lower morale. While some of the damage did represent the loss of tangible military assets, most of these operations worked to dishearten the Meiji military and reinforce the humiliation of their losses months past. Meiji morale plummeted and some reports of desertions reached Ezo, though Meiji faces no serious shortage of manpower to make up the difference. Particularly humiliating was the fire set to a small portion of Tokyo, which rapidly spread across a larger section of the city, damaging civilian buildings in addition to its original military targets. This had the effect of terrorizing some of the Meiji population, but in some ways also bolstered their resolve, even as it made the Meiji government seem weak and unable to properly protect its citizens. (-Morale for Meiji, +Sense of vulnerability for Meiji, +Defensive support from some civilians) Most dramatic of all was the Ezo operation against Tokyo harbor itself, where many ships of the Meiji fleet fled after the Aomori operation. Seeking to futher the humiliation of the Tokyo fire, and take advantage of any resultant chaos, the Ezo fleet made its most aggressive and daring of offensive operations into Tokyo harbor to attempt to further inflict damage on Meiji’s fleet. The prelude to this operation was met with a covert operation by the shinsengumi to temporarily disable some of the ground based guns and defenses overlooking the harbor, which went just as planned, and Meiji’s fleet sailed into the harbor which it had been forced to abandon nearly 20 years past. The operation went swimmingly, as Ezo forces opened fire on ships docked in Tokyo harbor, from Tokyo itself to Chiba or any of the secondary docking areas that had grown immensely with Meiji’s opening to the world. The Meiji fleet was severely damaged and only one modern frigate survives, with most of Meiji’s remaining ships in need of rapid repairs. Unfortunately for Ezo, while considerable damage was done to Meiji’s fleet, little discretion was made in the targets of their onslaught. Considerable damage was done to Meiji’s merchant fleets, harming its economy and hurting its foreign trade. These losses could be rebuilt quickly however, as could the damage done to the port itself, which was rendered largely inoperable in the wake of the operation. More distressing for Ezo was the destruction of foreign ships, many of which were docked in Tokyo harbor in order to conduct trade. While no French ships were present, one American ship was destroyed and a British ship took considerable damage from Ezo forces, as were an additional three German operated vessels in the harbor. Ezo attempted to direct fire away from foreign vessels, but in the chaos of battle, such casualties were inevitable, and condemnation was rapid from foreign countries. Ezo did unfortunately sustain some minor casualties in the form of some support ships, but overall the operation saw greater damage done to their enemies. (-3 torpedo boats, -2 converted merchant vessels, -Morale for Meiji) Regardless of damage to foreign support, the operation bolstered Ezo’s morale considerably, and greatly undermined the legitimacy of the Meiji government. With terror brought to Tokyo itself, and the fleet crippled, Ezo enjoys a considerable advantage at sea. Tales of the “Battle of Tokyo Harbor” as it would later be called (despite not being a true battle in the classic sense) would become lore in the Meiji navy. The new President had secured the first victory of his administration, and many hoped more would come. (+Ezo Morale, ++Naval morale) An additional act likely to sow more long term internal dissent was taken, rather appropriately, by the new education minister Fumiko. In an effort to train dissidents who can in turn spread dissent, Fumiko has educated some of the more able and persuasive of warriors to serve as agents capable of both training and educating dissidents in Meiji Japan. These dissidents have been taught theories of Marxism, Anarchism, and anti-Meiji rhetoric, ideally facilitating the spreading of revolutionary and anti-government ideals across Meiji Japan. Thus far this strategy has not borne fruit, but it will likely take some time for their effect to be realized. Ezo just needs to make sure their ideas don’t make it back home… At least, that is one popular view of the education minister. To the less enfranchised of Ezo, she is seen as a rallying force of empowerment, for policies upon assumption of office have been directed towards the education of not simply children, but educators themselves. Drawing upon western theories on teaching, minister Fumiko have been drafting out a modern curriculum that is gender neutral and focused on mathematics, the sciences, and engineering, as well as languages and self-defense. Her gender neutral approach has won her many admirers, and she has rebuffed critics by claiming that the curriculum is to build a strong, stable society that is modern and in direct contrast to that of the patriarchal Meiji regime. (+Educated dissidents in Meiji Japan, +National Party support) Realpolitik Bites You have served the empire well, and will continue serving its interests in the Far East. Unfortunately, at this time we have deemed it prudent to withdraw our five naval vessels from your command. Make the Empire proud Mr. Brunet, and know you are the toast of Paris - Letter received by Jules Brunet relieving him of the French expeditionary fleet. While most of Germany’s actions were driven by the deliverance day riots, the further crippling of Ezo’s fleet and the damage to German ships in Tokyo Bay pressed the Germans to act aggressively to pursue their interests. Content to let the other powers have at one another, and even allowing direct French intervention after diplomacy failed, Germany stood still no longer as Meiji suffered yet another defeat. Citing the loss of three ships in Tokyo bay as a sign that the conflict was beginning to threaten Germany’s interests, Germany began mobilizing forces along its border with France, and commanded the Kreigsmarine to begin immediate construction of vessels suited for sale at a very, very low price to Meiji’s struggling fleet. More disturbing to Ezo however, were rumors of diplomats dispatched from Berlin to St. Petersburg, London, and Paris concerning Europe’s policy towards Japan. Combined with a German mobilization, France grew very concerned, and discussions between France and Germany regarding the establishment of a mutual understanding in the East came to the fore. Likely intimidated by Germany’s show of force, and eager to avoid further escalation both in Asia and in Europe, France decided to withdraw its naval expeditionary force under the command of Jules Brunet back to its other Asian holdings. This was immediately followed by Germany ending its state of mobilization, as Bismarck considered his actions sufficient in achieving what was his likely goal - trying to push the balance of power back toward Meiji Japan’s side. Rumors abound about Bismarck’s other endeavors, including his diplomatic entreaties to Britain, which have thusfar produced no official agreement. German advisors were dispatched in greater number to Meiji Japan, with the expectation that Germany is stepping up its support for Meiji. One official statement declared that Meiji Japan was “close to producing Asia’s first natively produced frigates” out of Meiji Japan’s shipyards. Which shipyards, and whether they’ve been disrupted by the Ezo operations, remain to be seen, but most are skeptical that this can be achieved anytime soon without considerable outside help.   (-Five french frigates, +bad diplomatic moves for Ezo, +German help to Meiji Japan) These moves taken by Bismarck were just the beginning, as Ezo’s former residents took it upon themselves to campaign on Meiji’s behalf. First, the recent exiles gained a new member, when former Meiji representative Iwakura Totomi arrived bound and gagged on Meiji’s northern shore, with a fancy note attached to his body saying only “you and your cronies are next”. Unsure how to interpret this note, especially given how Totomi was completely unscathed and delivered from both justice and harm, Meiji welcomed back its representative and spy, and applauded him for his efforts despite his overall failure. Katsu Kaishu wasted no time, taking advantage of Bismarck’s moves to play up the anti-foreigner sentiment of Sadaaki and his allies, and ruin Ezo’s reputation as the foreign and christian-friendly haven which has garnered it much foreign support. Drawings and crude photographs, as well as explicit accounts of the deaths of foreigners and their property, were smuggled out of Ezo, and distributed among newspapers in London, Berlin, Paris, and New York. Challenging the noble view that many felt about Ezo considerably soured their image of the Republic, especially in London and New York, while the rosy outlook dominant among the French, left their press relatively unperturbed. While most hardcore supporters dismissed the PR blitz as propaganda instigated by a “cowardly traitor,” many more were horrified by the reports, and considerably damage has been done to Ezo’s reputation abroad. The continued adventures of Sadaaki, now a villain in foreign press, will be closely monitored, and any potential future rise to power by the man will be met with ire and condemnation among those abroad. This has also allowed Meiji Japan something of a rebranding - for where Meiji was long considered the anti-Christian land of barbarism, the anti-christian actions of Ezo have done a great deal to remove this stigma. (--- Reputation of Ezo in the West, -Public opinion, +awareness of Sadaaki in the West, +concern in London and new york) Senior Meiji statesman Inoue Karou embarked upon his own attempt to shore up foreign support for Meiji Japan was similarly successful, and building on Katsu Kaishu’s moves, circles of pro-Meiji donors and sympathetic foreigners were established in foreign capitals. Bringing with him former Ezo magistrate and intellectual Nagai Naoyuki, the avant-guard intelligentsia proved especially receptive given Naoyuki’s cultured background, and praise was given for his various plays and artistic works, many of which were now more popular in Europe than in his homeland of Ezo. Dubbed “the artistic oriental,” Naoyuki is something of a celebrity in Europe, his awkwardness and general miserable nature masked by a barrier of language and culture. (+Support for Meiji, +Celebrity of Naoyuki) Sho Nuff People of the Republic of Ezo. We request your help… - King Sho Tai of Ryukyu A brief alarm was raised in Ezo when a number of unknown boats neared its shores, flying a banner which few in Ezo had seen before. A number of former Kyushu samurai identified the vessel however, and the flag it flew, as being from the Ryukyu Kingdoms far to Japan’s south.  After ensuring the vessels’ non-hostile intent, they were allowed to dock, claiming they sought the amnesty Ezo offers to all potential immigrants seeking to escape Meiji tyranny. Aboard the largest of the vessels was a man identifying himself as Sho Tai, King of Ryukyu. Speaking a rather formal but bizarre dialect of Japanese, Sho Tai explained that the actions of Meiji had forced his hand and brought about his exile to the land of Ezo, and expressed hope that Ezo would hear his pleas for assistance and take up the mutual cause of traditional feudal rights. The government of Ezo has yet to react, but as it stands, Sho Tai and his rather large retinue remain as guests in Hakodate. The King has brought with him over 2,000 refugees, 200 soldiers, and a sizable portion of Ryukyu’s (now former) wealth aboard his vessels. Word of his actions has reached Meiji Japan, though no immediate reaction was made. Meiji has, in recent years, made moves to centralize authority and revoke the traditional rights of the Ryukyu islanders and their King, and this latest move will likely only accelerate this process. Sho Tai’s son, Sho Ten, remains in Meiji Japan undergoing education in Tokyo. (+New Ryukyuans arrive!) Domestic News Sadaaki Sacked First they let our hero Saigo die, they start a just war and bungle it by losing the island of Sado, in which my brother lost his leg for our Republic. Then they make us subservient to the Western dogs, all for some vague hope at defeating a clearly inferior enemy, and bungle that too by letting the enemy land on our shores. Know that I, Matsudaira Sadaaki, and my Sakura Party will not stand by this incompetence, well meaning or not! -Matsudaira Sadaaki, in a speech in front of the Congress Building One of President Matsudaira Tarou’s first domestic initiatives was to reorganize his cabinet, which involved the purging of perceived disloyal or uncontrollable elements within government. First, Hijikata Toshizo was appointed the new Vice President, filling the vacancy left by Matsudaira Tarou in light of Enomoto’s assassination and his own elevation to the Presidency. This appointment was uncontroversial aside from the fact that Hijikata Toshizo already held the position of Security Magistrate, sparking a constitutional-legal controversy (see below). Controversy also followed the appointment of a woman, Saeki Fumiko, to the position of education magistrate, with many questioning her legal status as a samurai (see also below) and just generally uncomfortable with a woman in a position of power. Lastly, the highly popular Kasuga Saemon replaced the comparably infamous Matsudaira Sadaaki as Army Magistrate, sparking a series of events and general displeasure among Sadaaki’s supporters. Sadaaki, justifiably angry at his dismissal, did what he could through legal means to block his successor. In a party-line vote the Congress narrowly approved Saemon as Sadaaki’s replacement, and in the mean time Sadaaki organized a number of dissident supporters and others angered over the new government’s policies. This new group was quickly organized into a legal militia under the framework of Ezo law, and Sadaaki was able to staff it with many eager and skilled officers and soldiers angered over his dismissal. Overnight, Sadaaki’s militia grew to be one of the most powerful and influential of all the decentralized groups in Ezo, and Sadaaki took ever step to ensure its organization was legal, open, and acceptable to Ezo authorities. Christians and government supporters alike became very uncomfortable, but legally, there was little anyone could do. Questionably legal was the seizure of many formerly government assets in the hands of Sadaaki’s new militia, but many of its members claimed the weapons to be their own property justly won in combat. With his militia in hand, Sadaaki proceeded to do what he does best - riot. The militia served as a useful and more organized force than previous impromptu mobs, though some angry citizens took part in Sadaaki’s protests. Spreading rumors of the new government’s “tyrannical intent”, reinforced by his own dismissal, Sadaaki and his followers began looting and generally protesting throughout Hakodate, causing turmoil in the foreign district and burning down what remained of sushi-tennou. Sadaaki’s actions were not unexpected however, and many in the government organized to contain the situation. The shinsengumi were on hand, and many of their agents in concert with government aligned garrisson forces skirted the edges of Sadaaki’s mob, and closed some streets to protect or divert the rioters away from certain parts of Hakodate. Their efforts likely saved many lives and ensured the riots remained somewhat orderly, though damage to Hakodate was still done. In the end, after some minor casualties were incurred by government forces containing more unruly parts of Sadaaki’s mob, approximately 14 Ezo citizens lay dead, as well as 2 unfortunate foreigners caught up in the mix. Declaring the riot “only just getting started”, Sadaaki declared his intent to march to congress and express his distaste with their policies. With congress and the government beginning the process of relocating to near lake Onuma, Sadaaki led his mob and militia north along Ezo’s main road in a show of solidarity. The march went largely without event, though the government of Ezo mobilized some military forces to watch the protestors for fear of an effort by Sadaaki to forcibly overthrow Ezo’s government. Upon arriving at the soon to be offices of government, Sadaaki gave a speech decrying the government of Ezo, listing its various sins and declaring the Sakura party (and his own leadership) the better alternative. While this speech came in an atmosphere of general patriotism and distrust of violent domestic opposition (the memories of Enomoto still fresh), his message did reach many. Outlining the failed Kyushu operations, the bizarre non-commitment to Sado, corruption, constant internal dissent, concessions to foreigners, and general incompetence of government, many silently agreed with Sadaaki’s criticisms. While most christians despise his violent ways, and many fear his power, Sadaaki has catapulted himself to one of the most popular members of the government’s opposition. Shortly after the events, Sadaaki ordered his mob to disperse, feeling he had accomplished his goals. He remains a player with a powerful and loyal militia and as leader of the second largest party in congress. A popular war veteran and notable dissident, Sadaaki has positioned himself well for future power within Ezo. (+Violence in Hakodate, +outrage at sadaaki’s actions, +criticism of Ezo’s government) In a related note, a campaign against Sadaaki has begun by order of Horace Capron, one of the more wealthy and powerful foreigners within Ezo. In light of his latest bout of violence, Capron declared Sadaaki a “wicked man” and that henceforth, all supporters or those who take part in his riots will find themselves sanctioned by Ezo’s merchants and otherwise barred from participation in his business ventures. While this has harmed Sadaaki’s ability to conduct most forms of business, the efforts have, if anything, fit his narrative and bolstered his support among his followers. Citing the “negative foreign influence” and pointing to a conspiracy on the part of the Western-backed government and its foreign “puppetmasters”, Sadaaki has decried Capron’s boycott and sought to openly defy it. (+Economic pressure against Sadaaki, +Justification for Sadaaki’s anti-Western rhetoric) JosefStalinator fucked around with this message at 09:35 on May 2, 2014 |
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May 2, 2014 09:29
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Carrying a Nation Suffering suffrage tasks! - Supreme Court Justice Ooka Tametomo The actions of the new administration have already sparked a number of legal controversies, most of which have found their way to the High Court of Ezo. This has been in part due to efforts by High Judge Ooka Tametomo, who has invested a considerable amount of time and effort into reforming the judicial system and boosting its relative importance. Already a new class of well trained lawyers and judicial scholars are beginning to emerge from Tokugawa University, and the effectiveness and relative prestige of the legal system and profession have increased as a result. Tametomo has also led an effort to encourage peasants and other citizens to read the constitution, and while many are illiterate, uninterested, or cannot read kanji, knowledge of the constitution has increased. Where Tametomo’s efforts have truly borne fruit, however, was in his schmoozing among Ezo’s elite. Many of these new elite were fascinated by his endeavors and his egalitarian ideology, and began to have keener interest in the issues facing the court and Ezo as a whole. Unfortunately for Mr. Tametomo, his efforts also bred new enemies, for as his egalitarian ideals became known to the VIP’s of Ezo, those opposed to it immediately recognized the danger it posed for the Republic. Decrying the partisan nature of the high judge, many in opposition immediately petitioned for his removal, while others, galvanized by this perceived egalitarian trend, immediately challenged the various cabinet-level appointees in the hopes that the court may in fact be forced to rule against these principles. Following legal challenges by those opposed to the government, the following two cases have been presented to the high court for its judgment: 1. Can a cabinet member hold two positions at once? This applies to both President Tarou and Vice President Toshizo, as the President is also Navy Magistrate, while the VP is still Security Magistrate. There is no clear stipulation in the constitution either way, but opponents of the positions argue that it is an overconcentration of power, and that the constitution implies some devolution of power to the cabinet throughout the executive. Also, this phenomenon is new and has traditionally been avoided. Supporters of the government argue that the executive can organize itself as it wishes, including abolition of cabinet posts entirely. 2. Can a woman be appointed to government? Can a woman be a samurai? Can a samurai receive less than full rights as guaranteed under the constitution? This issue is complex, and the appointment of Fumiko as Education Magistrate follows on the heels of her elevation to samurai by the Shogunate. This elevation was conditional however in that she was restricted from her right to vote, despite constitutional guarantees to this effect. Some opponents argue that this is unconstitutional, and that all samurai must have full rights. Other opponents argue that a woman cannot be a samurai as it does not follow tradition, and due to a general unease with women enjoying positions of power/samurai status. The implications of this case are wide-ranging, and could impact the franchise as well as samurai eligibility. Any who wish to weigh in on these cases, or represent one of the sides, may submit their arguments in thread for the court to rule upon. (+Prestige for Courts, +New cases before the court)  High Court in session From the Ashes As Ezo celebrated its victories against Meiji, many within the government recognized that the war was hardly won, and that future battles would require Ezo’s army be well staffed, organized, and prepared. With many thousands dead and yet more injured and recovering, the government of Ezo set about the task of reordering its units and filling gaps left by dead or injured soldiers. Kasuga Saemon, recently recovered from his wounds in battle, earnestly furthered these goals as his first task in his new position as commander of Ezo’s armies. In addition to reordering troops to fill half-dead brigades, many veterans who displayed courage and skill in combat were promoted to fill the position of their now-dead commanders, with others seeing reassignment based on a demonstration of (or lack of) skill on the field of battle. Many injured veterans were reassigned to jobs within Ezo’s government or non-combat roles, ensuring their continued utility in a situation of limited manpower. (+Army reorganized, +Recovery of injured, +use for veterans, +new army minister) The chamberlain of the Shogunate, with his role now considerably strengthened by the exile and official removal of the old Shogun, sought to reorganize the militias and men loyal to the old shogun. Many were fired and replaced, other co-opted, until the Shogunal estate and its staff were thoroughly purged of former dissidents. Many now-unemployed saw themselves part of the regular group of thugs joining Matsudaira Sadaaki in his various activities, but at least at home, the Chamberlain and his new ward are considerably safer. (+Removal of pro-Kamenosuke elements, +Support for Sadaaki by the former shogunal supporters) Among the MSF, the militia headed by Thomas Blakiston and Jules Brunet, an effort has been made to recruit foreigners to staff its ranks. Utilizing his contacts in British India, Blakiston has begun recruiting Gurkhas and other South Asians to the MSF. The MSF has enjoyed a surge of popularity due to their conduct in the Meiji invasion, with Jules Brunet’s naval contributions being especially valued. Those South Asians that have arrived in Ezo have been met with curiosity by Ezo’s inhabitants, with few having ever met foreigners of their persuasion. (+Gurkhas for MSF, +Curiosity for Ezo residents) Peasant Power Propagates "When your house is infested and no terminator is available, you must fill the part." -Saji Kobei In the rural wastes of Northern Ezo, the militias and local residents have seen their autonomy increase in the absence of the central government. The war against Meiji and the internal intrigues of the beleaguered samurai government have left the countryside relatively ungoverned, and in the wake of rampant banditry and sub-state level squabbles (Ainu and Matsumae), the locals have filled the power vacuum. Citing the lack of protection from banditry, the People’s Defense Force has declared a “people’s struggle” against the bandits, and mobilized the women, children, and increasingly, injured veterans from the Meiji battles to combat the problem. This has succeeded in harming bandit operations considerably, and as a result, raised the PDF’s profile as well as its leader Saji Kobei. Ever the patriot, Kobei has utilized nationalist rhetoric to justify his actions and their ultimate success, applauding the success of Ezo’s armed forces against Meiji and seeking to take advantage of this. This was most manifest in the PDF’s policy of utilizing abandoned Meiji weaponry to fuel their own anti-bandit operations, pilfered either from the battlefields of the failed Sapporo operations, or donated by citizens and veterans smuggling weapons from further south. The PDF is now better armed and more able to combat their bandit foes, expanding their influence to the mountains and yet more remote areas of Ezo as a result. Perhaps most concerning for observers of the PDF and its rural crusade has been the “loyalty tribunals” established by Saji Kobei. These tribunals have formed into impromptu courts, in which bandits and meiji spies have been accused of crimes against the Republic and sentenced to death by a citizen’s court. Any and all peasants supporting the Unity Party, which has enjoyed some support among the rural peasantry, have been rooted out by these loyalty tribunals. Katsu Kaishu has become the bogeyman of the group, and his name is considered taboo among those in the rural peasantry north of Sapporo. As all this occurred, Saji Kobe took a trip to Sapporo for the annual meeting of the freedom party. In the proceedings, with the current leader rather ineffective at gathering support, and discredited by his former association with Katsu Kaishu, Kobe managed to maneuver himself as leader of the freedom party. Some within the ranks were displeased seeing a radical peasant as leader of the party, and many of its more urban supporters walked out in protest, but the freedom party and its armed PDF wing now have a leader willing and able to see change in Ezo. (+PDF support and armament, +Patriotic support in Northern Ezo, --Support for Unity party and Katsu Kaishu among rural peasantry, +new freedom party leader) Bandit down! We scoured the forests for all traces of brigandry. On the second week, they poured out from behind every wood and into every clearing. But even as we raised rifles to fire, it dawned on us- they raised the coward’s handkerchief of surrender. The followers of the false emperor were begging for their lives. - Taniguchi Katsuhito, Republic of Ezo militiaman, Journals In a collaborative peacetime effort to rival that of the Grand Survey (or, for that matter, the arrest of the former Shogun at the Balloon New Year), the lords of Ezo work tirelessly in the summer, pooling together all of their forces. While much of the military has been slowly standing down in the wake of the attempted invasion by the Meiji regime, less exhausted troops from the Army, local militias- both inland and from the Hakodate dock defenders, special forces dispatched by the Shinsengumi, and foreign mercenaries coalesce into an ad hoc anti-guerrilla fighting force. Even special advisor Horace Capron uses his American contacts to bring in a few advisors from the Pinkertons, coordinating with their Shinsengumi counterparts on the finer points of scouting out signs of rebel activity. All of this is led by a symbolic command of Chamberlain Matsudaira, proudly flying the banners of the Tokugawa clan, assuring the people that the Bakufu-in-Exile has not abandoned them to raiders. And thus, the general anti-bandit unit (GABU?) storm the countryside, overturning every single rock and tree and creature in search of the criminals harassing order, as well as the remnants of the Meiji invasion force. Their efforts towards the latter is fairly successful. The Meiji invaders, driven into the hinterlands and away from the divine protection accorded to them by their god-emperor, decrease in morale, many willingly surrendering at the sight of the massive GABU forces. Their forfeiture is aided by the Swords to Plowshares Act, offering amnesty to surrendering fighters, many of whom are footmen anyway and not eager to die on some emperor-forsaken forest island. Most beg the arriving forces to allow them to go back to the Home Isles, though a few accept the offer. Furthermore, Matsumae clansmen and Ainu warriors had skirmished against the bandits earlier, softening up their resolve before the cavalry had even arrived in the north. (+prisoners for intelligence or ransom, -Meiji bandits, +new Ezo population, +prestige to the Matsumae and Ainu as defenders of Ezochi) However, not all of this goes as smoothly. While most of the Meiji remnants give themselves over, a few scattered holdouts remain of diehards. In packs of a dozen to four-score at most, these packs of holdouts dive deeper into the mountains and forests, subsisting on berries and sika meat. What these fanatical survivalist bands plan on is unknown. (~200 Meiji holdouts remain in the deep wilderness) As a side effect of the invitation of the Pinkertons, the Republic of Ezo Samurai Secret Service receive greater training in bodyguard techniques and modern firearms, as well as investigation skills. Even strikebreaking tactics are thrown in. Pretty soon, the noble swordsmen of Ezo are fully capable of beating up trade unionists at a robber baron level- as well as protecting their electoral lieges, of course. Visiting Pinkerton detective Booker Bioshock proclaims the Samurai Secret Service as “a new Praetorian guard fitting for Oriental potentates.” (+better training for Samurai Secret Servicemen, --chances of future presidential assassinations, -mob action decreased around Secret Service field of effect) Trainman Tycoon We Matsumae forged this land first from the wilds- is it not fitting that we forge this rail first, as well? - Matsumae Takahiro, at the railway spiking The men of the Citadel have been busy over the summer. The Ezo Transport Association, toiling under the direction of Industry and Resources Magistrate Matsumae, have tirelessly surveyed the land, cleared it of trees and obstacles, laid down the rail, and provisioned the trains for the island’s very first railroad. (And the third in all of the Japanese isles.) With a triumphant puff of great black smoke, the American-provided locomotive Yoshihiro begins its first journey. Stretching from the coal mines of Horonai to the bustling city of Sapporo to the northwestern port of Otaru, the Horonai Railway (官営幌内鉄道) has been built, to expedite the movement of coal, lumber, goods, and men between the coast into the heart of the island, with many more plans to expand the railway further. The American advisors were happy, the Ainu workers less so, and the Matsumae clansmen are ecstatic with such a visceral representation of progress upholding the relevance of their house. (+1 railroad for Ezo, +Matsumae clan prestige, +ETA prominence in industry and transport)  Ahistorical footnote: the Horonai Railway is created several years earlier than it would have (1880), and Horace Capron isn’t even directly involved with it. Congrats!  Ultimately, the plan by American railroad engineer Joseph Ury Crawford was chosen. The others remain viable for potential future expansion And you can Bank on it Our ab-original money-managing practices can make you the financial chieftain of your clan today! - Big Kotan Bank advertisement Former bar proprietor and notorious renegade Thomas Crusoe put aside his rampant senseless violence this season to pursue a different kind of killing. Even as he is sheltered by his Ainu hosts, he presents them with a new blessing- or curse?- from the land of the white saviors: double-entry bookkeeping. From his meager knowledge of monetary affairs and his low cunning into the world of illicit trade, the quixotic foreigner teaches his knowledge of accountancy and banking to the learned members of the Bear Star Clan, who look up to him as some sort of mystic of sorts. Chief among them is the Chieftain Tsukinoeaino, as well as his son Setsuhaya, who listen to the American babble on about currency and cashflows with great interest. Anglican minister John Batchelor assists in the translation process, and Setsuhaya, the missionary’s most prominent disciple and a polyglot, carefully notes down Crusoe’s words. After his financial ravings are over, the chieftain considers his suggestions and agrees to them- clearly they must have come from the gods themselves! And so is born the Big Kotan Bank, the first financial institution founded by indigenous peoples in all of Ezochi. Using some of Crusoe’s considerable financial assets, as well as many generous donations by both foreign adventuring groups, including the Know-Nothings, the Big Kotan Bank promises to supply small loans to not only the Ainu but also small-time peasants. Though creating a financial institution in the middle of the forest is understandably a difficult endeavor, the enthusiasm the Ainu and their random foreign fans have at it helps greatly.  (+Ainu bank for micro-loans, +Know-Nothings start investing in Ainu affairs) Happy Hunting Grounds An honest and honorable people, not quick-witted but fairly docile, I cannot fathom why the Japanese distaste for them. - Arnold Griffis, American aryuuan Even as the war calms, the Ainu turn from matters of defense to education. Their Hunting Lodges are retooled for the teaching Ainu languages, customs, and religion. The propagation of Ainu culture is the goal, amidst encroaching Yamato influence. Sympathetic westerners such as the aforementioned John Batchelor work on compiling dictionaries of their languages. At the same time, the Hunting Lodges become a place of Western learning as well. While some men of the east, such as the Yamato living under the Meiji regime seek to emulate the west in almost every manner, the Ainu opt only to learn the gaijin’s tongue and technologies. The Hunting Lodges become places of dissemination of great learning. Part of this is in no small part due to the western observers who have travelled to the island in increasing numbers. Many from Europe and from America, these Ainu enthusiasts, dubbed “aryuu” (Japanese for adherent), or “aryuuans”, brought more knowledge and learning, foreign modernized equipment, and handy pursestrings. Attracted by tales written by the naturalist Blakiston, the anthropologist Batchelor, and the lurid tales of the Know-Nothings, the aryuu traded with the Ainu in small scale, exchanging fishing poles or bullets for hunting trips led by Ainu guides. And thus the Hunting Lodges gave birth to a new industry: tourism. One connecting the natives of the inland wilds of Ezochi to the educated scholars of the west- or at least the unsavory elements of places such as Philadelphia, or Lower Manhattan's Five Points. During this season, the Chieftain Tsukinoeaino was too busy to make his previous trip to the United States, but he was able to send his capable son Setsuhaya to San Francisco to give speeches about the ways of their people. (+Hunting Lodges, +Ainu literacy, +Ezo’s burgeoning tourism industry- peacetime only!)  Indifferent Itinerancy What’s the capital of Ezo? Good question! - Everyone A new capital building is nearing completion near Lake Onuma, funded through a combination of state funds and donations by the Shogunate and its supporters. The land has been generously donated by the Shogunate to the state, and a sizable portion of former shogunate land in the surrounding area was donated for development into housing, roads, and all the other assorted necessities for running the future capital of the Republic. All the capital needs is a name, for as it stands, the land in which it is currently inhabiting is, if anything, part of the small village of Onuma. Many consider this name sufficient, but many prefer a more symbolic name, and are receptive to future suggestions. Similarly, the great buildings meant to house the executive and legislative branches are without name. The Congressional building has been constructed to house all 100 legislators with room for an additional 200 guests, so that members of the executive, judicial, or any future expansion of the legislative may fit within. The building borrows most from the Palais Bourbon in France for aesthetic inspiration, with some Japanese features. This building also requires a name. The executive has had a rather large estate constructed for it, styled in part on the American White House, with a surrounding garden and palatial estate resembling the Palace de Elysee in France. This building needs a name, and will be the future home of the President. All the buildings will be completed by the end of the year, with help and labor from captured POW’s and peasants supplied by the shogunate. Legislation to name the capital, officially move it to the area, and name the two new buildings will be needed in the coming months. (+Need to pass legislation drat it, +Prestige for shogunate) Congressional Update Domestic Safety and Stability of Ezo Act quote:Inciting or participating in mob violence, destruction, or violent civil unrest or disturbance is punishable by a minimum of 10 years in prison to a maximum penalty of death, depending on the severity of said unrest. PASSED 28 - 22 The act passed along party lines, with one independent voting with Sakura to oppose the law, citing it as a broad and gross overreach of government power. The law was not passed until after Sadaaki’s latest actions, giving him immunity for the time being for his past transgressions. Any future mob violence or “violent civil unrest” can be met with 10 years in prison to death. Impeachment Declaration Act quote:1. The President of the Republic of Ezo, Matsudaira Tarou, is to immediately undergo impeachment proceedings conducted by the House of Representatives, for acting against the interests of the Republic, sabotaging it's war efforts, and/or other high crimes and misdemeanors. Upon successful impeachment, he is to be immediately removed from office. FAILED 21 - 29 In yet another party line vote, attempts to bring articles of impeachment against the President of Ezo failed. Led by Matsudaira Sadaaki after giving a speech to his followers and Sakura party members outside parliament, his party officially brought articles of impeachment to a vote. Initially considering delaying the impeachment vote, Speaker Michiakira instead let the motion go to vote, only to see it fail predictably. Some questions arose over the constitutionality of early elections, but these were made irrelevant by its ultimate failure, with the Nationalists and independents all voting no. Swords into Plowshares Act PASSED 33 - 17 The swords into plowshares act passed Congress with minor opposition, primarily among those who felt the act was too generous and merciful upon the Meiji who have engaged in banditry or been captured in battle. Despite Ezo’s expectations, most captured Meiji soldiers elected to take the amnesty and head home, with less than one thousand choosing to remain in Ezo. The ones who do are currently housed in temporary POW camps, where they undergo rehabilitation through physical labor in mining and logging, overseen by special advisor Capron and guarded by MSF sentinels in good conditions. (+1000ish new Japanese, +labor capacity, -Meiji POW’s, -Meiji banditry) Q3 1878 Budget posted:Q3 1878 Budget posted: The Q3 budget passed without difficulty, and saw the Ezo government narrowly avoid having to borrow to meet its spending needs. With the battle against Meiji done, the process of rebuilding has begun in earnest. Many militia members and part time soldiers returned to their farms for the harvest and preparation for the winter, with fears that food shortages brought about by manpower shortages and the general disruption of war would cause a famine or economic ruin. These fears appear to have been exaggerated, for while manpower shortages continue to limit Ezo’s growth and slow down its recovery, no famine or great economic collapse was experience. While the harvest was below average, food needs were met both in terms of rice and grains, and the economy of Ezo appears to be slowly recovering. Q4 1878 Budget posted:Q4 1878 Budget posted: OOC: There’s some confusion about my arcane budget rules. First off, post it in thread next time so I can correct any mistakes. Second, fill in the “permanent budget items” numbers next to the parentheses. The parentheses merely mean the number of credits necessary to maintain the status quo - any more will bring about good things/reactions for those who benefit from it, and less will bring about bad things/reactions. Random Events Thomas Blakiston continues pressing the British government for knighthood, only to see his application denied. His return letter simply stated that “Anyone who begs for a knighthood has yet to find the dignity to deserve it”. (+owned by the queen) A sizable number of immigrants from Russia, approximating almost 200 individuals, has finally arrived at Ezo’s shores as the first of Russia’s promised immigrant population. A mix of Central Asian, Caucasian, some Ukrainians, and a handful of Russians, it is a rather diverse bunch with the only seeming similarity being their criminal or dissident backgrounds, making them rather unwelcome in Russia. Some of the immigrants appear to be Russified or orthodox christian Ainu, many of whom have preferred their continued Russian affiliation over returning to Ainu territory. These immigrants have founded the town of Semnadtsat, located just down the coast from the Northernmost Japanese settlement of Wakkanai. More settlers are expected to come with time. Many of the dissidents are of socialist or other revolutionary leftist backgrounds, exiled from the rodina for security reasons. Back in St. Petersburg and Moscow, the tsar’s apparatchiks snicker amongst themselves at the establishment of an “external katorga” where Russia could freely export dangerous elements to in exchange for the sweet sweet Ezo resource trade. An American special advisor, glancing at a story in the Crusoe Kings tabloid on the renewed interest in the island by nativist secret societies interested in the Ainu, smiles slyly at the notion. (+New Russian village, +labor population increases slightly!, +dangerous anarchist elements) A major scandal has occurred for the governing nationalist party, as no state funeral or commemoration of President Enomoto’s life and death has been conducted. Many were expecting a great funeral procession once the combat died down, and the meting out of honors to the man responsible for Ezo’s independence, and who enjoys massive popularity among virtually all sectors of Ezo society. As his body has rapidly decayed, any open casket funeral is now out of the question, but the government had better hold a funeral soon in order to save some face and commemorate the life of a great man. (+Outrage over no funeral for Enomoto) A scottish entrepeneur named Alexander Cameron Sim has seen his popularity rise in both Meiji and Ezo Japan for his invention of the Mabu Soda soft drink. The soft drink is an otherwise unremarkable carbonated beverage known for the inclusion of a marble in the neck of the bottle. Initially popular in Meiji Japan where Sim resides, Meiji immigrants and POW’s have brought the phenomenon to Ezo, where entrepreneurial foreigners have begun selling knock-off versions of the drink called (+New drink in Ezo and Meiji both!) The popularity of various sports in Ezo continues to grow, especially as children and adults alike seek respite from the horrors of war and its ill effects on the population. Soccer/football and cricket continue to compete amongst one another for the most popular sport in Ezo, with cricket especially popular among the British and other foreigners still left with residences in Hakodate. A distant third is baseball, which has enjoyed some support from Americans living in Ezo. (+SPORTS UPDATE) Works of poetry and short stories by the author Edgar Allen Poe have been translated by prominent American scholar Cleaneth Anderson, and it has become a fad among Ezo’s intellectual elite to read and critique Poe’s works. (+popularity of Poe in Ezo) A hot air balloon reportedly floated across the sea into Hakodate, and its origin is unknown. Of note is that within the balloon was, evidently, a gaijin baby, surrounded by four small kittens. Each of the inhabitants were weak but nursed back to health, and no one is quite sure how or why the balloon and its child/kitten inhabitants came to Ezo. (+Mystery baby and kittens)  
JosefStalinator fucked around with this message at 09:54 on May 2, 2014 |
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May 2, 2014 09:29
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