A Period of Change
Let this tale begin in the year 1419, for this year saw the start of much change in Nippon. Japan which hosted the people of Nippon lies on the peaceful ocean and is comprised of a series of islands. At our tales start the islands were ruled by a man whom was referred to as Shioho. While I will not go, so far as to call him incompetent of his power it should be noted that he was militaristic. Power was acquired through force, and when one puts forth all their effort into perfecting one skill another goes unaided. In the case on Shioho his ability to handle the fragile Japanese economy was neglected and in need of improvement.
At the climax of his rule in the year 1419 he began to after a time of severe turmoil implement reforms. The supply and maintenance of the standing army were cut significantly. In all truth a large portion (roughly half) of some seventy thousand men whom served in the service of the army were dismissed back into domestic life. Coupled with military cut backs was an attempt to revitalized commerce in the capital of Kyoto.
~Trade Assets Circa April 1419~
While the land forces of Nippon saw cutbacks and reductions in size naval forces stood untouched. Shioho's tactical prowess allowed him to see into his fragile nation's future. Upon careful consideration he came to the decision that a powerful fleet could prevent the enemy from ever setting foot upon Japan. What then would be the sense in an enormous and idle army? No, there is absolutely no sense in such a foolish thought. Therefore the reforms and changes that ensued.
Though the thought of an enemy setting down upon Japan was quite unthinkable to any man whom held power at this point in Nippon’s history a war happening was quite possible. While the surrounding nations of this era were not to say hostile they all deserved having an eye watch their actions. Especially the Chinese Empire which if properly implemented had the power to parade easily over any nation in close proximity to its' location.
All the aforementioned reforms took place in the dawn months of 1419. By the month we commonly refer to as April they were all more, or less in effect. Despite all of the positive signs of Nippon’s state several unfortunate flaws still stood in her way to achieving much of anything. First and most important to mention is a drop of stability in the islands following the drastic actions of those first few months. Though the union was not about to collapse or fall to shambles such internal matters were always crucial to consider in this era.
A final point to mention would be that while reform aided the weak and stalling economy of Nippon they were not a cure all. Profit was still unheard of and the ruling body was suffering a monthly loss of capital. Time was the cure that Shioho offered. His claims were merely that as years slid by the condition of such maters would improve. Who is to say this was the wrong approach? All that can be said in truth of this strategy is that it was perhaps the greatest gamble possibly taken.
The blossom blooms slowly yet steadily. While it is beautiful in adapting it is stunning once revealed in full. The would be Empire of Nippon hoped to achieve a similar effect upon foreigners as it strived to find a place in the churning global society.
~Territory of Nippon Circa 1419~
