Royalist Roast: A Puritan AAR

[Machiavellian]

Peace had once again taken a foothold within the realm of the Puritan Commonwealth. London had been quiet for years and no longer truly a factor in world politics. Relations with Scotland were good and France was a shadow of her former self, falling into Bankrupcy no less than four times within the span of five months in the year of our lord 1745.

July 1st, 1745: The Hall of Parliament, Coventry.

Basil Mosely Junior dragged the cloth across his sweating brow and then took a long sip from his mug of cooled water. It was a blisteringly hot July day in Coventry, but Parliament still needed to be in session. Such were the sacrifices he had to make for his country. The chatter and complaints of his fellow members of Parliament filled the packed hall, no doubt they too were suffering. Picking up his gavel he brought the session to order, letting his commanding voice flow over the assembled englishmen.

"We stand at a crossroad. Our commonwealth has done well for itself over the years since John Lambert led us to victory over Charles II and the Stuart crown. France has been humbled, our Vassals Eire and Aragon are both prospering and our colonies in the americas and in east java continue to bring in healthy returns. Even our alliance with Bourbonnais is stronger these days, as we find ourselves also in alliance with Cologne, Flanders, and the Neatherlands. The question we must answer today is where do we go from here? How among us has a thought as to where the Commonwealth should go and what path it shall carve for itself in the annals of history.."

With those words Basil looked out among the various members of Parliament, waiting for those brave enough or with enough vision to present their ideas. Of course he would watch them, such men were dangerous to his position as 'top dog'.


{all right everyone, feel free to Jump in and present yourself and any idea's you have, Basil will recognize you. I figured I'd give some reader influence at this point, though if no one has any ideas I will just continue as normal.}

 

[Mike von Bek]

A young man stepped forward, and Basil recognised him as Michael Beckett, a member from Sussex.

"I say we take India!", he cried, pitching his voice.

"The vast riches of the sub-continent would fall into our hands with ease, and we'd then be poised to move West to Samarkand, or East, into China. The Silk Path would belong to England!"

"Besides," he added, "Someone need to bring those heathens the true word of God! Far better it be us than the Portuguese."

 

[Machiavellian]

Basil Mosely Junior considered the words, as did the rest of the Parliament. The Honorable Mr. Beckett had an interesting idea. The heathens of India did lay claim to many riches and with military access through Mysore and the cities of New Bristol and New Wales the Commonwealth would have a good location from which to start. The only issue was the lives that would be lost on the long sea voyage.

"An ambitious plan, how do you propose we first go about doing this? And do you think it is really worth the cost?" George Tanden said after being recognized, small beads of sweat dripping down his bald head.

Basil turned his attention to Michael Beckett while at the same time wondering if anyone else would come forward to speak.

 

[Judge]

Nice writing

 

[Mike von Bek]

Warming to his topic, Beckett stepped down from the benches and approached the Lord-Protector. His hazel eyes flashed with suppressed excitement, as he began to pace - arms gesticulating wildly as he spoke.

"As you say, m'Lord - ambitious. But has that not always been the watchword of the great men in whose shoe's we now stand? Where we would be now if John Lambert or George Monck had been content with what was, rather than ambitious for what could be?"

The audience cheered at this reference, and there were cries of "Jolly good!", "Hear! Hear!" and "Damned monarchists!".

The member from Sussex raised his hands for quiet, and the unruly acquiesced.

"The transportation of our men would be dangerous indeed sire, the Cape is deadly and I have no desire to send our brave soldiers to a watery grave. Instead I suggest an alternate route - the Red Sea. We could seek a military access through Egypt, whereby our great Republican Navy could ship our gallant lads to New Bristol, where full preparations could be begun!"

He slammed his fist into his palm to emphasise the last, once again raising cries of agreement from the ministers.

"Egypt, by God!", "He's a genius!", "Bedamned monarchists wouldnt think of that!"

The Lord-Protector inclined his head. "New Bristol would hardly seem able to support the thousands of men it would require to subjugate the Indians. Do you suggest, Beckett, that our men should survive on curry and lager?" The ministers laughed dutifully at Beckett's expense.

"My Lord, I do not suggest it would be an immediate conquest - it would take time to move our troops, to stockpile the necessary supplies. If we were to spend the next few years taxes -"

The raised cries of the ministers interrupted him: "Outrage!", "Tommyrot!", "Look out! He's a damned monarchist!", but the member from Sussex raised his hands for quiet.

"Gentlemen, please! We could build a series of fortifications over the next few years, fortifications within which we could stockpile all that was needed - food, water, ammunition - anything! We could turn New Bristol into a base from which we could strike north, and bring the Raja's and Poobah's of those heathen lands to heel!"

"And then?", prompted the Lord-Protector, one eyebrow raised laconically. He liked the boy, for he thought big. The Lord-Protector liked big.

"And then my Lord, we would be dominant in the region! The wealth of Delhi would become the wealth of England, of the Republic! We would have turned the Indian Ocean into an English sea, and none could gainsay our dominance of the region - the Portuguese would be thrown back from their islands, and we could take control of the wealth of Spice Islands! England would be the greatest power in the world!"

Beckett paused, carried away on the reverie of his rhetoric momentarily. Coming back to himself, he continued.

"My Lord, Ministers - this would be no easy thing. But would it not be grand, for men - much like ourselves, to stand here in years to come and say 'Lo! It was here that we began! It was here that we ushered in the Golden Age of the English Republic!'" He raised his hands into the air to emphasise the last, and the Ministers broke into tumultuous applause.

"A veritable Cromwell!", "Huzzah the Republic!", "An end to monarchies!"

 

[Machiavellian]

Basil took careful note of the way this Beckett of Sussex spoke. He could both bring the Parliament to his side and turn them against him. A man with such ambitious idea's could indeed rise to greatness, but that could also be dangerous to him. Yet the riches of India were too tempting to resist.

Dragging his fingers through the downwards slopping mustache he had begun to grow, Basil allowed himself a grin that would rival the cheshire cat of years to come.

"It just so happens that I had all ready commissioned Governor Edward Heltsan of New Bristol in the construction of fortifications during the war with France, to protect the Commonwealths interests in the area. So this idea is not without considerable merit." Basil would try to take as much credit as possible, while still leaving the idea as Becketts, so should it turn out to be a disaster the blame will stick solely to the gentleman from Sussex.

"Ingenious.", "He's always thinking ahead, that Basil", "Good show" The supporters of Basil Mosely Jr. said as if on cue before Basil continued.

"While securing military access to Egypt might well prove difficult and costly, as the Mameluks have no love of us, it may still be plausiable. I shall also send word to New Bristol and New Wales to start a small scale gathering of conscripts in the area to bolster the forces that arrive. Unless there are any objections, we shall go ahead with this inititive. The honorable mr. Beckett may be seated, good show."

 

[Machiavellian]

Chapter V: Crusade and Journey to India.

Following the idea of Michael Beckett, on August 30th, 1745 an army of roughly 50,000 young men, accompanied with Artillery and steeds, departed from Plymouth harbor on a course to Cairo, with stops in the friendly ports of Sevilla, Bourbonnais controled Baleares and Sardinia, and the ports of Sicily. While a good idea in theory, Michael Becketts thoughtful suggestion would plunge the Commonwealth into a costly war, though not with the misguided nations of India.

Jan 3rd, 1746: Cairo, Grand Palace of the Mameluk Nobles.

Jaifem Karsiej stared dumbstruck at the Puritan ambassador who he had refused two months in a row. He and his fellow lords could not believe that he returned again. Didn't these infidels understand the word no?

"I really must insist that you allow our troops military access to your lands. The journey around cape horn is far too perilous and we can not endanger the lives of that many. We are even willing to pay for the construction of a canal of somesort, as long as the Commonwealth is given full access for its shipping." Michael Hempford said in the language of the Egyptian lords.

"Get out! We are sick of you english dogs are your demands. Our land is at war with the Ottomans and we do not have time for your petty wants." The Mameluk noble said with sudden outrage, his dusky face reddening.

"I am sorry to hear that, but I have been informed by my government that if you do not grant us the access we desire, it will be war." Michael said after clearing his throat. He was a little nervous about the safety of his own life, but hopefully he would be protected being nothing more than the messager.

"War?!! You dare to threaten US? Sniveling cur, run back to your island and leave us be. GUARDS! Take this dog to his ship." Jaifem snarled, his face flushed with anger.

The guards entered immediately, having all ready been on the alert and harshly seized the Puritan diplomat. Dragged back to his ship, the Englishman set sail for Sicily to give word to Admiral Haris and General Nottingham, who were still waiting in port.

April 3rd, 1746: Sinai, Kingdom of the Mameluk nobles.

Chester Nottingham swatted at another of the overgrown flies that plagued his camp. After defeating the small army of the enemy, his forced put seige to Sinai, while Admiral Haris began to hunt the seas for Mameluk shipping. Despite the success over the armed forces of the Egyptians, Chester was worried. The real enemy itself was the Desert, already it had taken the lives of at least 4,000 of his young men and many more were sick and only getting worse. With the weather quickly increasing in temperature he was unsure how much his men could take. With a sigh he drained the contents of his canteen. "Damn Parliament and Damn Michael Beckett."
Little did Chester Nottingham realize that it Michael Beckett had little influence in the declaration of war, whether he was against it or not, well only Parliament knew that.

April 26th, 1746: The home of Basil Mosely Junior, Coventry.

It was a beautiful night in Coventry, the city was healthier than ever, made rich by the tributes of its vassals Aragon and Eire along with the efforts of its industrious people. Basil still lived alone, he was a rather young man and at the moment he lusted for power more than women.

Closing the door to his home, Basil tossed off his overcoat and glanced around. He didn't hear the soft gaelic singing of his housemaid and furthermore the front room was still rather untidy. "Sarah beth?" He called, running his fingers through his hair and glancing around.

"She is not here, sir." The voice said with a slight french accent. Basil spun around to see a tall, well dressed gentleman standing between him and the door, a rather large egyptian scimitar within his hands.

"Wh.. Who are you?! and what are you doing in my home!" Basil said with outrage as he stumbled backwards, tripping over a chair and collapsing to the floor. He knew all too well who the man was and why he was here. An assassin. "I can pay you more than the Mameluks, good christian money.." Basil began to try to reason with the assassin, even as he crawled backwards.

"lovely. Even you think it is the mameluks who sent me, that is perfect. Make no mistake, you are going to die. But it is France that strikes you down." The assassin came forward, smashing his booted foot across the lord-protectors face.

Basil clutched his face in pain, blood running from his mouth even as he tried to speak. "b.. but why, why france? I .. don't understand.." Spoken through his tears.

"You have crippled france, reduced her to poverty. Paris is filled with starving children and disease runs rampant. Her italian territories have been reduced to the island of corsica and even that is in rebellion. You must pay for your crimes." The assassin spoke no further, bringing his wicked weapon downward and slicing into the soft flesh of the englishman. Blood splattered across the floorboards as Basil let out a scream. He was soon silenced as three more brutal cuts were made with the heavy weapon. Dropping the evidence that would point fingers towards the Mameluk court, the assassin slipped out the door confident justice had been done.

Upon discovering the death of the Lord-Protector the Commonwealth was quick to point its finger at the Mameluk lords. Outrage swept through the countryside and soon Parliament found itself committed to a war in the south that was already taking heavy tolls. Sinai had fallen, but at the loss of 20,000 young men mostly due to the horrors of the desert heat. Despite following victories at alexandria and Cataract, the General Nottinghams forces alone could not win the war. At the publics urgings Lt. General Jason Walker, a second cousin to the deceased Basil Mosely jr., was instructed to set sail for Egypt with new troops to bring an end to the war.

 

[Judge]

Ah a crusade is after all always a crusade. Great writing

 

[Director]

Campaigning in the desert is difficult, more difficult sometimes than defeating the actual Mameluk armies. Where the Russians have 'General Winter', the Mameluks depend on Majors Thirst, Cholera, Typhoid and Dysentery.

Good luck - you'll need a steady supply of troops.


So the French strike back! And the Mameluks get the blame... Cardinal Richelieu would approve!

 

[Mike von Bek]

Heh heh, "Damn Michael Beckett!", I love it

Certainly tho, thats one method of gaining military access that I hadnt contemplated. And now the riches of Egypt will be added to the Great Republic! Wonderful! Maybe we can discover the Rosetta stone a few years earlier!

And then the death of the Lord-Protector! Gads, man! Theres only so much excitement a chap can take! A truly excellent chapter, and I agree with the Director - Richelieu would heartily approve. It seems the French are not yet done, by God!

Wait... a Puritan Jerusalem? ...

 

[Machiavellian]

Following the death of the Lord-Protector, Michael Beckett managed to assume the position, though it would prove to be a short reign, as he had many more enemies in Parliament than he had previously known. The war against the Mameluk nobles continued along its set path, though it was quickly becoming clear that it was at a cost the Commonwealth could not easily afford. In may Lt. General Walker forces storm the beaches of Judea, with ambitions in liberating Jerusalem. As the months continued, Jerusalem and Catarack fell to the Puritans and while the Mameluk cavalry proved troublesome, several fierce battles brought about their destruction.

August 1st, 1748: Irondekoit, Commonwealth's american colonies.

Wilbert Hannog continued down the dirt lined street a cheerful smile on his face and a host of new furs over his shoulder. His wife would be pleased with his latests aquisitions on his journey to the lands of the shawnee, as he wagered he could sell them for four times the price he purchased them at. Unfortunately fate would never grant him that chance.

A loud bang shattered the air, sending a hosts of chirping birds into the sky. Wilbert felt something smack heavily against him chest and he fell backwards. Attempting to suck in air proved futile, as the bullet punctured his lung. He would never know for what reason he died.

More shots rang out, the last meager strength of the Iroqouis made itself known as Rebellion seized control of the province.

December 6th, 1748: The Hall of Parliament, Coventry.

"So we all agree, the Grand Hall of Parliament will undergo construction alongside the Coventry house for the Lord-Protector. remember, this will aid in centralizing our growing governement." Michael Beckett said with a sudden lack of strength. He had been arguing with Parliament over this issue for the last couple hours, despite the fact that they all more or less agreed with the project.

"Bring this war to a close, Beckett.", "We'll see you out of Parliament yet for bumbling us into this war", "Yes, yes.. We want out of Egypt" the voices sprang up from all over the hall, they were nothing new. Beckett had tried explaining that he never wanted the war, but that was futile, with Basil Mosely jr. dead all blame fell on him. The energy and excitement that once filled his hazel eyes drained away.

"Listen to me, my friends and peers. When this war is over we will control the path to India and the influx of new trade will make the Commonwealth far richer. The blood our young men spill is not in vain." Beckett said, gesturing about with added drama.

"How hard is it to subdue the entire Mameluk kingdom would you say, Mr. Beckett?" Geoffrey Grenville said sharply, bringing attention to himself. Green eyes flashed in a manner far too similar to the look a wolf might have given a lost traveler on a cold winter night. "I would think that we do not have enough men to capture all of their vast Kingdom and then keep it down.. merely so we can go to war against the distant lands of India and spend more and more men we do not have"

This brought some laughs and a chorus of general agreement. Causing Beckett to frown visibly. With sudden disgust he attempted to move the session onto the topic of the Irondekoit revolt, but soon found himself blamed for that as well. He couldn't wait until he was replaced so he might enjoy some quiet time in his country estate or maybe he'd move to india or the american colonies.

December 5th, 1749: Cairo, Egypt

Chester Nottingham was glad that this horrid war was finally over. With the fall of Cairo, the Mameluk nobles had been brought to the negotiating table and now the peace of Ramji was signed and official. As he waited in his cabin he muttered silently to himself. Thousands upon thousands killed and for what? Military access to the whole of the Egyptian domain, the Province of Sinai and a few hundred ducats. He coughed harshly and cursed. All this just to go to war in even more distant India. Parliament be damned, he would not be fighting in India. In fact when he got back to England he would let the whole of Parliament know his opinion of this war.

More importantly, when he got back to England he could finally enjoy some freezing winter weather. God be praised.

The Commonwealth had gained military access to Egypt and stationed Lt. General Jason Walker in Sinai to make it a proper Commonwealth province. Following the conclusion of the war, Michael Beckett resigned from his position as Lord-Protector. Leaving the position empty for a number of months, during which Parliament debated who most deserved the post. In the america's the Irondekoit rebellion was put down and a fresh wave of inquisitors arrived to purge the Iroqouis culture from the face of the earth. And Michael Beckett made plans to retire somewhere quiet.

 

[Mike von Bek]

Hee hee, I love seeing poor Beckett suffer. The next Lord-Protector should make him Governor of India or something if he loves it so much In OTL that was usually the sign of the end of ones career.

Grenville seems to be a competent chap indeed. My votes on him for the next Lord-Protector!

 

[Machiavellian]

Intermission

1750 herald forth a new era to the Puritan Commonwealth as the new Lord-Protector Geoffrey Grenville was elected to the post by his fellow members of Parliament at age 41. He promised to further expand the Commonwealths influence in the untamed east and the american colonies. In addition he proposed further measures to centralize the government. In 1753, the Commonwealths first true enemy, the British crown, Annexed the whole of their Portugese vassals empire. While Tago itself rebelled against this, calling itself Portugal reborn, the British crown was content with the more important south american provinces. It is also during the 50's that the city of New Lancashire in Madurai india recieved an influx of new citizens and with the incorporation of the native population, swelled to become a bustling city of over 11,000 people. Oppuration of the Indian colonies was immediately transfer from New Bristol to New Lancashire. By April 1758 Puritan forces are finally transfered from Sinai to India, where they are stationed in the advent of war. Rather than go to war though, Captian Horace Gumpton is comissioned to sail east with regiments to discover the uncharted world.

The first two discoveries were the Islands of Ceram and Buru, which would in the following years become the colonies of New Wessex and New Cornwell, but far more important was the discovery of the virgin lands of Australia on July 2nd, 1760. Colonization fever hits the Commonwealth as thousands beg for colonial charters to colonize the new land. By 1763 all of habitable Austrailia was colonized by the Puritans, the cities of New Meath, New Navarra, New Picardie, New Atrois, New Maine, New Orleanais, and New Gasacone stretching across its southern cost and the small island to the south. Austrailia proved immediately profitable as a new Center of Trade was Opened in New Picardie, Wagga on January 2nd, 1764.

Even as Austrailia was being colonized, Sinai was purged of its heretic faiths and transformed into a truly Puritan territory. Only as the year of 1766 ended did the Commonwealth discover that its time of peace would be ending, as evidence began to circulate that it was the Crown of France that was behind the assassination of Basil Mosely, Jr.

 

[Mike von Bek]

Holy Carumba! A Puritan Australia! Heh, I dont think we'll be so laid back in this time line. Puritan Australians... I must protest!

 

[Machiavellian]

Thats right, no Good d'ay.. None of that no worries stuff... Instead it would probably be more All work and no play make this unworthy soul closer to heaven.

Puritans were odd folk as much as I can tell, all righteous and dedicated to god. Believing in plain unadorned churches and ceremony and homage to the family. Watching their neighbors and thinking the devil was around every corner and to stray from the grace of god for even a moment would end ones life and cast them into hell.. Certainly not an Australia I'd want to visit for vacation.

But I by no means intend to offend any Puritans out there.. I admit much ignorance on the intrictate aspects of their faith.

 

[Machiavellian]

Chapter VI: Revenge!

New evidence pointed to the French agent Sir Jean Renoue as the true assassin of Basil Mosely Jr. Furthermore, several documents were discovered indicating the French kings direct involvement in the matter. Outrage seethed throughout Puritan England and plans for war were drafted. Forces were strengthened on the Continent and all knew that war was brewing. On July 8th, 1767 Geoffrey Grenville and the Parliament agreed to war with France. Legistration was passed through, declaring France a enemy of the state and war was declared. Bournnais, Cologne, Flanders and the Netherlands all joined the war against France and her new allies: Denmark, Catalunya, Lithuania, Savoy and Spain. Young men took up arms and mothers weeped.

July 28th, 1767: Outside the walls of Paris, France

The Puritan soldiers charged forward, with a fierce roar that seemed in direct contrast to their usually subdued lifestyle. Bullets had been used and as the French lines attempted to reload their primitive guns, the Bayonetts of the Puritans flashed under the noonday sun, before a river of red sprayed outward along the line.

French soldiers screamed in anguish as they fell under the brutal charge of the Puritans. Bayonetts tore flesh and skewered guts. In a matter of ten minutes, the entire french lines convulsed and broke.

Screams were drowned out by the thunder of the artillery as it continued to pound at the French reserves, even as the Puritan generals signaled the Cavalry forward to sweep up the field. What had been a much feared battle had unexpectedly turned into a massacre.

By the end of the day over 70,000 French soldiers lay dead, food for the carrion crows.

The Puritan Victory sent shockwaves of discontent and fear through Frances allies and by August 5th Denmark, Lithuania, Spain, and Savoy all sued for peace. Catalunya also desired peace, but was refused, as its land was secretly coveted. The same day Frances trading post in south eastern india was burned to the ground by forces from New Bristol.

December 8th, 1767: The Fields of Gerona, Catalunya'

General Kervin muttered to himself as he walked through the field of dead. Horses lay strewn about, with men littering the grass alongside him.

The Puritans had achieved victory, but it was a costly one. The Catalunyan Cavalry had fought bravely and with tenacity. Only the superior number of Puritan soldiers had obtained victory this day. He silently wished that Parliament had sued for white peace with Catalunya, believing a hunk of land was not worth this carnage. But he was only a General, his was not to make policy, only to execute it.

The war continued to rage, as both Catalunya and France, despite initial loses still held a detirmination to win. In opposition the armies of Netherlands and Flanders soon marched side by side with their Puritan allies, eager to bring a conclusion to the war.

 

[Machiavellian]

Even as the war continued in Europe, the Puritan settlements over sea's flourished. In the America's new growth and prosperity came to the settlers, while in south sea's, India and Austrailia more and more colonists came every month, vitalizing the Puritan lands.

The Puritans vassals, Aragon and Eire, had much different situations. In Aragon, the population was content and happy, enjoying the level of independence the Puritan government granted them, while their King led them to conquer more and more of the old Spanish lands as the Castilian government continued to collapse in on itself, losing cities to revolt.
Eire was not so well off, people in Ireland continued to demand the prosperity the Puritans possessed, but its government continued to faulter, dragging Eire deeper and deeper into Bankrupcy.

On February 1st, 1768 the French army attempted a stunning midnight raid upon Wessex. While the plan was bold, it was foolish as well. The French forces were repelled by the Puritan home guard and its ships were soon sunk to the bottom of the Channel. Leaving every last french man dead or a prisoner. In April the French province of Nivernais fell to the Commonwealth's army. And so the war continued.

October 3rd, 1768: The Good Mother, Puritan ship of war off the Austrailian coast.

Captian Clive Bedford II dragged the wet cloth across his brow once again. The sun continued to scorch his hide and despite the months he had been here his body had not yet become resistant against the Austrailian sun.

His vibrant brown eyes scanned the horizon though he knew he would find nothing. He was supposed to be on alert in the off chance that the French navy attempted an attack on Austrailia. Fat chance, Clive thought to himself. If the frogs even knew where Austrailia was, he doubted they could spare the resources for such a plan with their homeland being overrun. Even though news reached Austrailia slowly, he did recently hear that in July and August that Catalunya's Gerona had fallen followed by the capture of mighty Vendee from the French. It was only a matter of time before Paris itself surrendered.

Clive sighed to himself. He should have been thankful for this post away from the fighting, but inwardly he wanted to test his skills against the famed French Admiral D'Orvilliers. Oh well, thats what happened when you have a brother-in-law in Parliament and an overly worried sister.

November 4th, 1768: The home of Richard Quarterson - New Haven, Conneticut.

John Quarterson exited his fathers room, holding back the tears in his eyes. The old soldier was dead. Without a doubt his father had lived an exceptionally long life, one of struggles and triumphs. Yet his fathers last words continued to rattle him. He did not want the burden of his fathers shadow to continually fall over him, yet his father had begged him to continue his works.

"help the oppressed english colonies gain their freedom from the crown.. how am I supposed to do that.." John muttered to himself, anger and sadness fueling him all at once. Without a doubt he cared a great deal for his father, but he also resented the man in many ways. Richard was always busy with one good cause or another and had very little time to support his sons endevours. And now, even in death he wanted his good causes to take away from Johns own interests.

John Quarterson stormed out of the house, seeking the local pub for a place to clear his head and think. His father never could accept the fact that John just wanted to paint and cared little about freeing the oppressed and liberty for all men.

November 23rd, 1768: Catalunya, Catalunya.

"RETREAT!!!!" The second in command of the Puritan forces cried out, even as he held the limb body of General Tradies in his arms.

The Catalunyian Cavalry was too much for the Puritans this time, sweeping down out of nowhere to protect their homeland. Unlike the French they fought like devils. Each inch of ground gained cost the blood of several men and this time the Puritans just didn't have enough men to sacrifce.

"Retreat, everyone fall back" the de facto leader of the Puritan forces cried out, even as the lines collapsed under the fire of the Catalunya forces. Thousands perished as the Puritans were forced into retreat. Defeat had soiled the progress of the war.

The defeat in Catalunya caused the Puritans to rethink the strategy. It was decided that the war with Catalunya was becoming to costly and that peace should be attempted at the earliest convinence. The Generals in Puritan Navarra disagreed though and pushed for another attack, utilizing more Infantry. This battle turned into a sucess, defeating the Catalunyan cavalry and shortly after putting seige to Barcelona itself. In France the war progressed with little trouble Paris having been captured in October and Campagne having just fallen on the 17th of January. It was clear that the French would not be recovering easily from this war.

 

[Machiavellian]

On October 2nd of 1768 Lorraine fell to the combined forces of the Puritan Commonwealth, Flanders and the Netherlands. In the sea's themselves, the French admiral D'Orvilliers was humbled again and again by the superior ships of the Commonwealth's navy, until eventually in late february his ship was sunk as well, destroying any hope of a french naval victory. The war was nearing its conclusion and all that remained was for France and Catalunya to realize this.

March 16th, 1770: Barcelona, Capital of Catalunya.

William Tadforth followed behind the Puritan general as the Commonwealths army marched through the beautiful city of Barcelona. The city had been marred by the war, but had managed to retain much of its beauty. This however did not prevent its citizens from casting hateful glances at the englishmen as they walked victorious through the cities streets, though perhaps the fact that they were heading towards the cities gates helped a little.

Catalunya and its people had put up one hell of a fight against the Puritans, but ultimately it had come up short. That was where William came in. As a diplomat he had managed to convince the government of Catalunya that surrender to the Commonwealths alliance was the only option besides total annexation. The terms had even been generous: Gerona to the Puritan Commonwealth and fifty-five gold bars. William smiled at his accomplishment, he had great respect for the Catalunya people, perhaps because of the small amount of Aragonese blood that flowed in him.

The General seemed less pleased. It seemed that the hard man wanted nothing more than to raze the city to the ground and force the Puritan ethic upon all its citizens. William was thankful that he would not have to spend any lengthy amount of time with the callous man and inwardly felt a twinge of pity for the soldiers under the Generals command.

With one last glance, he took in his departing glimpse of Barcelona, knowing he would not be welcome in the city again. Back to Kent for him.

August 4th, 1771: The Coventry House, Coventry

The Lord-Protector Geoffrey Grenville rose from his comfy chair and moved around his chamber desk to shake the hand of Willem the V of the Netherlands. He studied the Monarch with his intense green eyes even as he produced the regular claptrap greeting and formalities.

".. and once again it is an honor to by meeting with you. If you would kindly have a seat, we can discuss things." Grenville finished his greeting and waited for Willem to take a seat before he followed in turn.

"e..yes, urrm.. We see that Commonwealth benefitted much from recent war. Aside from the 550 ducats, Champagne, Vendee and Nivernais from de Crown of France. Yet, We of Netherlands do not see this growth. We hope Commonwealth remember our committment." Willem said in his heavily accented english.

Geoffrey smiled like a hungry wolf, he knew exactly where this was going. The Commonwealth was strong and he had heard the reports of rebellions in the hessian region. It was also well known that the other allies did not much like the Netherlands. It seemed Willem wished to gather some support.

"Do not worry, my good friend.." Geoffrey said soothingly. "You have the full support of the Commonwealth in any future entanglements. We do not forget our allies." There was some merit to that as the Puritans had remained in alliance with the Bourbonnais for over seventy years and had never once dishonored their treaties.

Willem smiled and switched gears soon, changing the conversation in another direction. "errm.. tell me, how can Commonwealth be so secure with London and King George so near by? Do not fear English crown?"

Geoffrey held back a laugh and quickly answered as most citizens in the Commonwealth would have. "London and the English crown is a thing of the past. A shadow, nothing more. We have no more to fear from the English than we do from the Shawnee or Huron of the america's. They are treading water and eventually they will succumb to the tide of history."

Geoffrey got to his feet and offered a gracious smile to Willem. "Its a nice day out, perhaps we can get out of this office and talk of something besides politics.."

Willem V nodded and followed the Lord-Protector out.

On June 2nd, 1772 Hessen revolts and claims its independance from the Netherlands. Willem the fifth quickly calls on his allies for aid. But to his surprise Flanders, Bourbonnais and Cologne all refuse to honor the treaty of military support. The Commonwealth does not faulter though and with some strong encouragement convinces the Bourbon king and the lords of Flanders to rethink their stance and honor the alliance. To replace the cowardly cologne, the Commonwealth's vassal Eire is made the fifth seat of the Alliance. The war is quick and decisive, and with Commonwealth aid Hessen is captured and reannexed into the Netherlands by April of 1773.

 

[Amric]

I'm kind of surprised you don't just annex England and get it over with...or are you just toying with them like a cat with a mouse?

 

[Machiavellian]

Chapter VII: Time for another roast.

With the sucessful war against france, The Commonwealth proved itself one of the dominate western powers, with only Austria and Russia as peers. To further emphasis this point, when finacial problems nearly toppled the government of Eire, the Commonwealth offered the failing Irish government the option of fully joining the republic. Unable to decline, Eire ceased to exist as a seperate country on May 1st, 1773. The joining of Ireland into the Commonwealth caused a substantially increase in finacial confidence, not only canceling all Eire loans, but bring exceptional growth economicly to the Puritan Empire that year. Even as treaties of non-aggression were signed between Scotland and the Commonwealth, King George III looked on with envy from London.

January 7th, 1774: The Grand Hall of Parliament - Coventry, the Commonwealth.

".. As you all know, the North American provinces of Penobscot, Bangor and Carolina have joined together under the Capital of Savannah and declared their indepence from England as of one week ago. They are comitted to becoming a free republic and are strongly anti-monarchy. I believe that we should take them in as brothers and support this rebellion of theirs." David Jennson said to the rest of Parliament, holding a large assortment of documents in his hands.

"I second this, for it would also further humilated England and strengthen our influence on the continent." Robert Ignas said, after blowing his weasel like nose into an expensive hankerchief.

That brought a round of agreements from the Parliament as their was little love between the English Crown and The Puritan Commonwealth. Eventually some order was restored by Geoffrey Grenville, the Lord-Protector having a fair amount of authority within the expansive new chamber.

"Declaring war against England at this time would be detrimental to our diplomatic image. However.. It would not hurt us to offer various sums of finacial aid to the fledgling republic in the form of gifts. Our treasury can easily afford this. Furthermore, we can establish diplomatic ties of assurance with their.. " Grenville looked down at the notes before him, before continuing. ".. Continental Congress, Garenteeing their independence."

"Once this has been done, I suggest that we open the possibility of bringing them into our alliance as the now empty fifth seat." David Jennson said, not wishing the Parliament to forget that this was his idea.

That brought some disagreement from members of Parliament who were not confident that the so called United States could survive its war of independence from the English Royalty.

On Febuary 1st, The Declaration of Independence was signed by the fledgling nation of the United States. On the following day the United States entered into a military alliance with the Commonwealth and its other three allies. While the war continued for several years, by 1779 it had ended with victory for the United States. The English crown paying 28 ducats to end the conflict and recognizing the sovereignty of the new republic. Ambassadors from the Commonwealth were soon sent to the United States capital in Savannah to make sure the new nation understood its place in the political climate of the world. It was not long before the United States was convinced that its security would be better provided for as a vassal of the Commonwealth, free to administer its own policies, yet tied to the great republic.

April 30th, 1789: Savannah, The United States.

Paul Eddingswift clapped along with the rest of the crowd as the First President of the United States was sworn into office. As foriegn ambassador of the Commonwealth he saw his mirrors from France and Brittany as well. He did not try to talk with them again, as the last time he tried to make small talk they had both snubbed him in turn. Apparently despite supporting the United States, they had little love for the Commonwealth. He would have to keep an eye on them, after all they could be trouble. His attention returned to the new president as he finished his speech.

".. and while I hesitantly accept this mantle, I shall follow the will of Independence which fueled us to victory over the English Crown for as long as the good people of this country wish of me." With those words President Benedict Arnold stepped down and proceded to shake hands with the gathered assembly.

Several people before the representative from France, Paul took a strong hold on Benedict Arnolds hand and shook it while leaning forward to whisper in his ear. "It is an honor to meet you, Mr. President. We have much to discuss, perhaps later at the Iron thistle.." Benedict merely smiled and Paul continued past.

Later that evening in one of the local bars the President of the United States spoke in a small back room with the ambassador of The Commonwealth.

".. and so you see, that we must remain vigilant. Another war with England is soon coming. But fear not, for this time the Commonwealth will be free to act. "

President Arnold looked sternly at Paul, taking several long moments before answering. ".. You should know I never agreed with those fools in congress. If I had been in office we never would have tied ourselves closely to the Commonwealth." Before Paul could interupt, Benedict continued. " Do not misunderstand me though, I think that this arrangement is profitable, as long as the Commonwealth realizes that we are a free country and not puppets." Paul nodded briefly, taking in the presidents words. "With that said.." President Arnold continued. "the United States will be ready should another war begin."

On June 12th, 1789 The Commonwealths alliance declared war upon King George III and his alliance. With the declaration of war the nations of the United States, Flanders, Bourbonnais, and The Netherlands joined the Commonwealth against the British Crown, Sweden, Holstein, and Hannover. Early into the war both Hannover and Sweden accept white peace, leaving their former allies outnumbered. Having just suffered one humiliating defeat, King George III prepared himself for another as the Puritan armies surrounded London.