The Lions Roar

[Melron]

The Lion's Roar

Chapter 5​

An Empire mourns​

April 11th-August 4th 1936​

As the winter frost turned into spring rains the British people felt a certain sense of calm descend upon them. The early worry about German reoccupation of the Rhineland had melted along with the snow. Though the popularity of the conservative controlled National ministry was waning because of the series of unpopular economic laws that were put in place under Prime Minister Baldwin’s direction, for the most part people were willing to go back to work to rebuild the British economy. The calm of the Empire though was suddenly disturbed as reports coming out of Palestine stated that there was a level of increasing unrest in the region. Those in Whitehall were keen to ignore those reports until 5am on April the 19th as news came by telegram that local demonstrations in the Palestine mandate had turned into outright revolts.

Demonstrations quickly turned into open revolts against British Rule​

While the revolts shocked many in Britain, who those that knew the region they had been coming for a long time. Arabs in the region have generally been resentful of the British Mandate that cleanly carved up the Middle-east with almost no regard to historically relations or tribal loyalty. Many Arabs saw through the guise of local puppets and knew that they merely traded one colonial master for another in the First World War. This coupled with a down turning economy In a mostly rural region and an increase in western Jewish immigration to Palestine caused events to escalate beyond local control.

One of the many riots that shook Palestine during April 1936​

As the demonstrations began to grow and become more violent local police forces requested formal assistance from Army units stationed in the region. At first the ranking officer on duty sent out orders to the crack 8th infantry division located in Tel Aviv to put down the riots. That order was quickly countermanded by High Commissioner Sir Arthur Grenfell Wauchope as white British troops using heavy artillery to put down protesters would likely only inflame local Arabs and risk spreading the problem into Transjordan. In the end it was decided to send in local garrison units to end the rioting.

​

Within hours of the first reports of demonstrations garrison units were sent out to put them down​

By the time local garrison troops had arrived though what had started out as riots had quickly turned into outright resistance to British rule. Raiding the police barracks the demonstrators had armed themselves. Local troops had to fight their way through the towns and cities as they moved to put down the rebellion. While it did take longer than expected within seven days peace had returned to Palestine even if by force.

Local resistance groups armed themselves with weapons but By April 26th the revolts had been put down​

Meanwhile back in Britain, those in the government and RAF began talks of reorganization. Talks of changing the way in which the RAF operated and was lead had been going on for some time now. During the early 1930s the UK had effectively been in an arms race against the German Reich for air supremacy. Now though with German land and air units reoccupying the Rhineland and the recent cuts in the military budget leaving little else for the RAF to do, it appeared to be the correct time. The new reorganization would create different commands for the RAF. This would very effectively streamline the command and control process whilst also allow the RAF to use its military assets more efficiently. Each major theatre group an RAF command. In the British isles, RAF command was sub-divided into three separate structures. Fighter Command, Bomber Command, and Costal Command.

The new organization of the RAF created a much more fluid system of command and control​

On May 6th grave news shook the British Empire to its core. King George V, the last of the great warrior Kings had died. He had lead the Empire through many a tough times and had seemed to be larger then life itself. Always ready to face a challenge head on and willing to adapt to the changing times, George V had become not only a respected king but also a liked one. The empire was truly sad to see him leave. Though Britain was not alone in mourning the death of their king. Those across her Empire and the commonwealth nations such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa also shared in the loss of the king. While people celebrated the rise a new ruler, Edward VII, many could not helping but fear but what the future held for them.

Britain and her Empire mourned deeply for the loss of George V as the former Prince of Wales readied himself for the duties and responsibilities of Kingship​

Despite their wish to, the world did not pause for the British to lick their wounds. The ever demanding pace of time forced them to move on from their grief. As spring turned to summer events around the world continued to transpire. Once again Japan was throwing its weight around in Asia as it created the puppet state of Mengjiang. Though it was worrying for the region, it was of little concern to the British. What was of minor interest to the United Kingdom though was that after eight months of bumbling around in the same desert for a second time, the Italians had finally managed to defeat the Ethiopian Royal Army and officially annexed them into the their empire. Civilians and local resistance groups had already crossed the borders into places like Sudan and Kenya bringing stories of brutal actions by the Italians during their campaign. The Ethiopian king Haile Selassie I had also fled the conflict and eventually settled in Bath, determined to one day return to his kingdom.

The exiled king of Ethiopia took refuge in the UK​

However, what really shocked the world was that the public declaration on July 26th that Spain had been ripped apart by internal conflict and was now officially in a state of civil war. Ever since the elections a few months earlier there had been a growing sense of unrest on the Iberian Peninsula. Right wing and conservative groups were uncomfortable with distance upon which the state had been separating itself from the church along with certain land reforms that were popular with the masses but not the traditional elites. In the end, they along with high uppers in the Spanish armed forces, decided to conduct a coup against the government. While they failed to oust the leaders of the republic, they did manage to gain substantial support from certain nationalist groups and the majority of the army. Thus most Spaniards woke up on the 26th at war with their own countrymen.

Spain effectively shattered after the failed coup and ended up in civil war​

Not long afterwards reports began to come out of Moscow that Stalin was beginning to further centralize his power and shore up his position in the Soviet Union. Several high ranking members of the party were set up in a trial that was unjust in all but name. While the dictator Stalin stated that this was merely to root out traitorous Bourgeoisies within the party, everyone knew it was a selfish power grab. Those in Whitehall seriously doubt this would be the last of these trials or of Stalin’s ruthless political maneuvering especially as the man was paranoid of figures both within the party and the military.

One of Stalin’s infamous show trials​

 

[narsus534]

Huh, it seems that the British are having even worse luck then before.

 

[JustThatGuy]

Being a reader of your AAR since the very beginning, it is my duty to inform you that I've nominated you as Character Writer of the Week.

http://forum.paradoxplaza.com/forum...ustThatGuy&p=15785885&viewfull=1#post15785885

Congratulations, Melron and keep up the great work.

 

[Belgiumruler]

Congratz!

 

[narsus534]

Congrats! Definitely deserved.

 

[KLorberau]

Congrats...great AAR....keep it up Merlon.....don't wait so long between updates......

 

[Melron]

Thank you all very much, I really do appreciate this, especially since this is such a new AAR.

 

[Melron]

The Lion's Roar

Chapter six

A Proposal​

Richard Hunt walked along the rain soaked London Street as he exited from the underground station. He opened his umbrella as the first few drops landed on his hat. Despite the fact that it was summer, once again it was raining. For once though this didn’t bother Hunt as he was in a foul mood. I should have just kept my mouth shut, he thought not for the first time. His little outburst at the first meeting of the year had caused Hunt more grief then it was worth. Less than week afterwards he was called into the head of sections D’s office.

“Take a seat,” he said as Hunt had entered. “Mr. Hunt, we really do appreciate everything you’ve been doing over the last year and your suggestions last week proved to me that you are quiet capable.” Hunt at this point had tensed up. The young agent was quite good at telling when people were lying to him and he had the sense that what was coming next would not be good. “Therefore I have decided to have you head up a sub-section focusing in on Albania.” Albania. Hunt could not believe it then and he could not believe it now. Bloody Albania. Perhaps the most boring country in Europe to focus in on from an intelligence point of view. When was the last time Albania had done anything of interest, Hunt fumed. Never, not once. In fact the only reason Albania was even in the history books was because it had been conquered so many time. Thus for the last eight months he had been diligently writing reports that nobody had read on a country nobody cared about.

Albania and its ”strategic” location within Europe​

Hunt walked to the end of the street and turned right before entering the building only known to the public as 54 Broadway. However, to those high enough in the government and in the intelligence community it was the operations center of the Secret Intelligence Services. As Hunt entered he quickly closed his umbrella and took off his hat.

“Morning Richard,” said the front secretary. She was an old dear who didn’t quite understand what the people in the 54 Broadway actually did but she was sweet none the less and knew everyone by heart.

“Morning Mrs. Kingsley,” said Hunt masking his sourness with fake jollity. He walked past her and over the elevators on to the right. Taking out a key he inserted into a lock and turned. A distant rumbling became louder as the elevator came down from one of the upper floors. It came to a stop and opened as Hunt stepped in. The doors closed and automatically took him to his floor. As Hunt stepped out of the elevator he founded himself in a long marble corridor that was mostly empty expect for a few people. Walking a few dozen feet he came in front of a frosted door that simply said Section D. Pulling out another key he opened the door.

Hunt found himself in a room all too familiar to him. It was rather large, much larger than the conference room that had all been cramped into eight months before. It had enough room for thirty or so desks to fit comfortably. It also had a fair sized break room along with a separate office for the head of section D. Hunt walked over to his desk without saying hello to anyone. Most people in section D were ambivalent towards him and some outright disliked him. Hunt didn’t really mind that though.

Hunt’s office​

Sitting down, Hunt pulled a fairly large stack of paperwork towards him. All of it had to do with the small nation on the Adriatic Sea. When Hunt first received this assignment he had been shocked with the amount of reports and paperwork he had to go through. It was too much for a country that the UK had little interest. Being suspicious, Hunt had placed a call to the embassy in Tirane. Apparently Hunt’s boss had told them to pass on every bloody piece of paper that went through that building onto Hunt. At first he was frustrated but soon he realized that for the most part all Hunt needed to do was sign off that he had read it along with filing a weekly report. Truly riveting, thought Hunt.

For the most part though, his work did not take him that long. A few hours at the most, thus leaving the rest of his day to do what he wanted. Today, Hunt had even less to officially do. Work that would only take him an hour tops. There was an official report about the internal comings and goings in Albanian politics along with a statement from the embassy mentioning the recent rise in prices in the country. What a waste of bloody time, thought Hunt.

His boss knew it as well. The head of section D knew that Hunt only spend a few hours a day dealing with Albanian reports. Hunt suspected that because of that he was going to be sent to Tirane to work out of the embassy. He had already hear rumors from several of his co-workers that he was no longer going to be in the office. Being sent on assignment to Tirane would not only be a boring job but would also effectively be the end of Hunt’s career as well. He knew that once he was reassigned away from London, he would never be back.

Sighing, Hunt signed off on his report and put it in his outbox. Opening one of his drawers, he pulled out two huge manila folders filled with paperwork. Both of them had the words ‘Eyes Only’ in big black letters and the official seal of SIS. Before he could open one of them up though, Hunt jumped as a door slammed. His boss’s office door had just been closed sharply and he could hear muffled voices from behind it. Hunt turned back to his folders though as it was not unusual for people to meeting with the head of section D.

Opening the first one he was greeted to a gruesome picture of a bloody body. Despite the fact that it was in black and white, Hunt could clearly see were the copious amount of blood had stained his cloths and the ground. The picture was of a former MI6 informant. The Political Commisar working out of factory in Moscow. His handler had been caused him to take too many risks and with Stalin ordering the NKVD to crack down on any and all who they suspected. While this time they did actually get a spy, there were thousands of innocent people that were put under arrest or just simply executed. With Stalin on a paranoid rampage it was too dangerous to try and turn anyone else. The events in Moscow had effectively put SIS back three years in the Soviet Union.

Hunt spent several hours review the file on Stalin and his show trial in Moscow. While the lucky ones actually got a trial, many just simply disappeared after a NKVD agent grabbed them off the street. He felt pity for those tramped under the homicidal rule of Stalin and his communist cronies. Closing the file he opened up the second one on his desk. This one had reports and images on the Spanish Civil war. Apparently several nations had already sent large amounts of troops and equipment to the Iberian Peninsula. The Soviet Union and the United States was supporting the Republican Government whilst Italy and the German Reich were supporting the Nationalist Forces. While the British and French governments had toyed with the idea of supporting one side or another, and both Republican and Nationalist officials had already put in official requests for such, they had both decided that it was best to stay out of Spanish affairs. At least for now.

The civil war in Spain was growing increasingly violent, especially with foreign intervention​

As Hunt continued to read, he learnt that a general by the name of Franco was beginning to gain popularity and control of the fractured nationalist forces. SIS estimated that within a few months he will be able to eliminate all other political rivals and be able to focus entirely on the Republican forces. Though there was no official statement of how long the war will last, nor which side will eventually win out, but they had so far given the edge to the nationalists.

Hunt thumbed through the file that he had read several times before. Technically he wasn’t allowed to have the file. Hunt took quick look behind him on his left. There a man in his late twenties sat in a white shirt, red tie and big glasses that gave him the appearance of being bug eyed. The young man had a nervous demeanour, almost skittish, like a perpetually scared puppy. Naturally he was not a member of SIS. He was on loan from GC&CS helping Section D with cypher codes. He went by the name Eric Ramsey. The young man had arrived about two months but Hunt liked him. He didn’t treat Hunt like a child and was generally pleasant to talk to, even he was a bit nervous. In fact the young GC&CS officer had provided Hunt with the files he was currently reviewing.

“Should you really have those,” a voice suddenly said. Startled, Hunt jumped slightly and looked at who spoke. A man light brown hair and a mustache in his mid fourties was sitting in the chair next to his desk smirking at him. He, like everyone else in the room was wearing a suit, while he had a briefcase, hat, and umbrella at his feet.

“Aren’t those files for officers currently working specifically on those nations,” asked the man. “Not for officers currently focusing on Albania.” Hunt was taken aback by the man’s questions. They weren’t hostile or in an accusing tone, in fact he seemed amused by the whole situation. Still it made Hunt uneasy how much the man knew. Hunt was unsure how to respond so he remained silent.

“Allow me, if you will, to infer then. You found that your work load was not quite as demanding as it should be so you took it upon yourself to take on extra for your King and Country by either borrowing, without asking I might add, those files or, I strongly suspect this one, you asked someone that you know and trusted to pull them for you.” Hunt’s heart rate quickened. Whoever this man was, he clearly knew what Hunt had done. Something that Hunt could lose his job over. Silence wasn’t going to get him anywhere quickly except out on the street so Hunt went on the offensive.

“Who are you,” Hunt asked.

“Oh my dear man, I do apologize for my incivility. My name is Stewart Menzies,” replied the man.

“Oh God,” was all Hunt said in reply. Menzies was a legend in the intelligence community. He had grown up in a wealthy family in London but at the age of twenty two he had joined the army. He was a Lieutenant by the time World War One broke out and fought courageously in the Battle of Ypres, and for that he had received a Distinguished Service Order from King George V himself. After that Menzies had joined SIS and was a rising star in MI6. He knew members of the government personally and was a close friend of Sir Hugh Sinclair. Menzies was the man you turned to if you wanted the impossible done. Very loyal and sharper than half the government, Stewart Menzies was someone that you wanted to know and be backed by. And Hunt had just been exposed as to having committed a very serious breach of security by that very man.

Stewart Menzies, a legend in the British intelligence community​

Menzies just continued to smirk back at him. “Mr. Hunt, and yes I do know your name, I want you not to worry. I have no intention of reporting you, getting you sacked, nor anything of the sort,” said the SIS officer. Hunt was immediately relived but then became curious. Why then was this legend, sitting next to a lonely young officer who was not assigned to anything of significance?

“So what can I do for you Sir,” asked Hunt.

“Well see, I’m glad you asked Mr. Hunt,” replied Menzies. “You probably don’t remember previously seeing me. I was in that meeting, eight months ago where you so rightfully spoke out against your superiors.”
“I wouldn’t really call it speaking out, Sir,” said Hunt.

“Oh believe me I would in this stuffy place. You see, as you surely know, these men are thinkers of a previous generation. They don’t believe the unthinkable can happen and more importantly they don’t want to believe it can. They are set in their ways and merely do the job of telling those in the government what they want to hear, not what they need to hear.” Hunt was taken aback by the carefree way in which Menzies criticized he men around him.

“No you see, I am looking for people who are not afraid to think of the unthinkable. I am looking for smart, young, blood who can think outside the conventional rules of intelligence. In other words Mr. Hunt, I am looking for people like you.”

“I’m sorry,” Hunt said somewhat confused.

“No need to apologize Mr. Hunt but there is a need to listen. I know all about you. Joined SIS straight out of university when you were twenty one. Worked for Section N for two years, with one of those years being on assignment in Hong Kong. Received an accommodation for outstanding work in the field. Promoted to case officer in Section D twenty months ago where you have been effectively wasting your skills.” Menzies leaned in, placing his elbow on Hunt’s desk at this point. “You see Mr. Hunt, I know all about you. You are smart and very motivated. You are perhaps the best analyst I have ever met. You have keen intelligence, better than most men double your age and you know when someone is lying to you, two traits that make you the perfect interviewer. Perhaps most importantly Mr. Hunt, you have a killing instinct that makes you an asset you wish to keep and an enemy you do not want to face. I am here to offer you a proposal Mr. Hunt. I would like you to join my new section. A section that is not afraid to say the thing that everyone in this country seems terrified to admit. That there will be another war with Germany, and this time it will be bigger and bloodier then the first one.” Hunt just stared Menzies. He had long had his suspicions with Germany’s increasingly aggressive foreign and domestic policies but he had almost no one to share them with.

“Now Mr. Hunt,” Menzies said getting up and collecting his things. “If I have piqued your interest and you wish to join me and my new section, meet me at the nearby St Ermin's Hotel, tomorrow at four o’clock. Or if you wish to waste your considerable talents here,” Menzies swept his arm around the room. “Or in Albania, do not meet me but I do sincerely hope that is not the case. Good day Mr. Hunt.” With that Stewart Menzies left Section D without saying another word to anyone leaving Hunt to sit alone at his desk and ponder his future.

 

[red_KLG]

Very nice update.... I really like the "le Carre" influences !!

 

[Melron]

The Lion's Roar

Chapter 7

The Watchtower​

“Where are we going,” asked Eric Ramsey not for the first time. This repetition of the same exact question, along with a replicated response from Hunt was increasingly frustrating the young SIS officer. Hunt and the GC&CS officer walked out from Building 54 and took a left. It was a beautiful day in the capitol of the largest empire the world had ever seen. Sunlight poured onto the London Streets as only a few light white clouds floated high above the city. A complete opposite yesterday, these were the days were Hunt loved being in the UK.

“To St. Ermin’s Hotel,” answered Hunt wondering how many times in the last ten minutes he had already said those exact words. Let’s see. Once at his desk, once at the door, once in the elevator, and finally as they were leaving. Four times already.

“Yes, but why,” asked Ramsey again for the fourth time. Hunt also repeated his response to this question which was to remain silent. He had not told Ramsey about his meeting with Menzies and he had no intention to until they had met the SIS officer. Hunt was certain that he wanted to join his section but he wasn’t sure how Ramsey would react or whether even Menzies would take him. It would be much simpler and easier if they spoke about it as a group.

“Cabbie,” Hunt called out, not letting the silence between him and Ramsey to become settled. A typical London black cab that had up until a few moments ago been driving south of Broadway but was now pulling over to pick up Hunt and his companion.

“Quickly get in,” Hunt said. Ramsey was about to splutter a response but the SIS officer pushed him into the cab. Joining him, Hunt shut the door behind him and told the driver to drop them off at St. Ermin’s Hotel.

“What,” said the London cabbie who, from the nature of his accent was clearly from the east end of the city. “Why the blooming hell would I drive you twos to a hotel that is only a five minute walk from here.”

“Because,” Hunt said through clenched teeth as he was beginning to lose his patience with everyone. “There is five shillings in it for you if you take us.” The cab driver said nothing else, but simply shifted the black car into gear and remerged into the street. Ramsey began to say something, no doubt to start the cycle of questions again but Hunt cut him off with a stern look, so the young GC&CS officer remained silent. It only took a minute before the cab turned off Broadway onto Caxton Street and made another right into the entrance into St. Ermin’s Hotel.

​

The entrance to the famous St. Ermin’s Hotel​

As the cab stopped, Hunt handed the driver a few coins as a valet opened the car door. The reason Hunt wanted to take a taxi to the hotel was so as to not look like he had been close by. Almost since the hotel opened, because of its proximity to the headquarters of SIS, along with the fact that it was frequently used by important foreign nationals when visiting the capitol, officers of the intelligence services had been using it for meetings and to gather Intel for years. Thus, almost every other intelligence service knew that SIS officers went to the hotel every day, so they generally stationed people uncover to keep an eye on things. Thus, Hunt tried his best to no look like an intelligence officer. One way he had done that was by taking the taxi, another was that he was wearing his best suit, and had asked Ramsey to do the same the previous day. Though taking a look at the way the GC&CS officer was dressed, Hunt shouldn’t have bothered. Ramsey looked the same as he always did.

Hunt thanked the valet and gave him a five pence coin as a tip. He and Ramsey walked into the opening of the grand hotel. The room was very brightly lit with high ceilings and hanging chandeliers. Intricately patterned white finishing covered the walls, bannisters, and ceilings. While the floor was separated perfectly between beautifully decorated tile and lush carpet. In front of the grand staircase were tables and settees for people to sit. Hunt had never been into St. Ermin’s before or really any swanky hotel before so he was slightly taken aback for a moment.

“Can I help you sir,” asked a voice to Hunt’s left. The hotel’s concierge was standing by the front desk, looking at the two.

“No, thank you. My friend and I are meeting a colleague here in an hour. I assume there is a place for me to wait for him,” replied Hunt.

“Of course sir, you may wait at any of the open spaces you see in front of you. We have an assortment of reading materials for your pleasure and also several refreshments as well. If you would like sir, I can also place a call to your friend and let them know that you are here if you would give me there name or room number,” said the concierge.

“Thank you, but we will wait,” Hunt responded walking over to the lounging area. The two had arrived at the hotel an hour early on purpose. Hunt wanted to scout the area out before his meeting with the mysterious Menzies. For the life of him, Hunt could not figure out why the experienced intelligence officer had asked to meet him here. While the hotel was known as a place where spy’s gathered, that was the exact reason for them to meet elsewhere.

Hunt sat down and picked up one of the readings materials. It was the Times newspaper. Normally, Hunt had no interest in reading the old newspaper but he would be happy to use it as cover. Mercifully, Ramsey had decided to stop asking questions and merely say in silence, though he did keep looking at Hunt with funny looks. While looking like he was reading, Hunt scanned the room. There were a few men in the hotel lobby, talking in different groups. Hunt sized them up as foreign dignitaries along with their security services escorts. Nothing to really concern himself with. Hunt settled himself down and prepared himself to wait for an hour.

Less than fifteen minutes passed though before Menzies himself walked down the grand staircase and walked up to Hunt and Ramsey smiling. Hunt put down his newspaper and stood up to greet his new boss.

“Afternoon, sir,” said Hunt. Ramsey looked from Hunt to Menzies before standing up too.

“Good afternoon Mr. Hunt, I am so pleased that you decided to meet me here, though I had the strangest recollection of asking you to be at four and not three o’clock,” said Menzies. Hunt smiled and nodded.

“Yes you did, but I wanted to come early and see why you wanted to meet here. However, I presume you expected me to be early otherwise you wouldn’t have already told the concierge to notify you when I arrived,” replied Hunt. Menzies chuckled slightly.

“I see you are just as intelligent as I thought and a perfect fit for my new section. However, one thing I did not expect was for you to bring a company. And who might this be,” Menzies asked turning towards Ramsey.

“Sir, I would like you to meet GC&CS officer, Eric Ramsey. He is on loan to section D, helping us out with some decryption work. He is however, by the far the best code cypher I have ever seen. He took him all of five minutes to crack a coded message we managed to intercept from Moscow. No one else in the entire section could do it, including yours truly. On top of that he is loyal to a fault. I assume your new section could use a good code cracker,” said Hunt. Menzies looked at Ramsey and his eyes lit up.

“Ah yes, Mr. Ramsey a pleasure to meet you. My name is Stewart Menzies,” said Menzies reaching out a hand and shaking Ramsey’s with it. Ramsey clearly had no idea who Menzies was from his lack of facial expression as he gripped the intelligence officer’s hand. “You know, Mr. Hunt you are quite right, I could use a good GC&CS man. I did just interview another a few days ago. A brilliant young man by the name of Alan Turning. Truly astounding his abilities, but unfortunately his supreme talents would merely be wasted with us. Yes, I could use a man of your calibre quite efficiently. I also assume this how you got hold of those files. It’s decided then, you shall join Hunt as new members of my section, only if you want to of course.” Ramsey stared at Menzies dumbfounded at first. Unable to speak for a few seconds he finally uttered a question.

“I wouldn’t have to go back to GC&CS would I?” Ramsey hated GC&CS. He didn’t get along with his co-workers and disliked the longer train journey as he lived in the city.

“Not unless you wanted to,” replied Menzies.

“Then there is nothing for me to consider, I would love to join your section,” said Ramsey.

“Excellent,” said Menzies, clearly happy that the two had joined him, “Well then I shall put in the proper paper work tomorrow but for now I would like us to abjure to the bar.” The party of three walked out of the hotel lobby and into a small door to the right. Through there was the hotel bar, which at three o’clock in the afternoon was nearly empty. There were a few patrons who sat quietly in the darkly lit bar, talking quietly amongst themselves but for the most part nobody was there.

“If you too wouldn’t mind taking a seat over there, I’ll get us some drinks,” said Menzies pointing out a booth in the corner. Hunt and Ramsey walked over and sat down. Menzies returned in a few moments with some drinks along with a dazzlingly young beautiful woman. She looked around Hunts age and had long, wavy brown hair. The young woman was dressed smartly, but in a way that showed off her figure and had enough make-up so as not to overpower her nature good looks but just enough to compliment her.

“Victoria Wills, I would like you to meet two of our newest additions. Mr. Richard Hunt, a case officer who worked out of section D and Mr. Eric Ramsey, a GC&CS cypher,” Menzies said. Hunt and Ramsey both shook the young woman’s hand. Hunt noticed she had a firm grip.

“Now, the reason I asked to meet you here Mr Hunt as you have no doubt be wondering is that I had arranged for a quick debrief with Ms Wills here. She is a field officer currently keeping an eye on a Mr. Renne DePaul. A very important figure in the French Ministère des Affaires étrangères . He is currently in London for the week conducting some business with the French Embassy” said Menzies. Ramsey looked at both the three intelligence officers with confusion.

“Why are you spying on the French? Aren’t they are allies,” he asked. Menzies looked over to Hunt.

“Mr. Hunt, would you like to answer your friend’s question,” he said. Hunt nodded and turned to Ramsey.

“The French politically right now are very divided. Their last stable government was effectively under Napoleon III with his Second French Empire. With the devastation of the First World War and the economic depression, this has only worsened. Now, the French don’t know who they want to lead them. Liberals, Conservatives, Social radicals, Communists, even Fascists have a fair amount of popularity with the French people,” answered Hunt.

“This naturally makes those in Whitehall very nervous,” said Victoria. “How can we expect to respond properly to international events if we cannot trust our closest ally? In addition, if a political coup does happen in Paris which leads the French towards communism, or Fascism, which can happen, this will make countering the growing powers of Italy, Germany, and the USSR much harder. My job is to keep an eye on things political and hopefully give London enough forewarning if something does happen so they can react to it in time.”

“That is where our friend Renne DePaul comes in,” said Menzies. “Even though he works for their version of the foreign office, he has friends in very high places within the French government. He knows all the ins and outs of the workings in Paris.”

“Oh I see,” said Ramsey clearing uncomfortable with what he just heard. He picked up his drink and began to sip from it.

“So Mr. Hunt, I know why Mr. Ramsey is here. We need a code cypher in the office. However, we already have several good case officers, most of which have more experience then you I imagine. So why are you here,” asked Victoria. She leaned forward and put here elbow on the table analysing him.

“I’m here because Mr. Menzies thought I would be a good fit,” replied Hunt meeting her stare.

“Well see, while Stewart’s opinion does matter, I like to make up my own mind about people,” responded Victoria.

“I am here,” said Hunt picking up his drink for the first time. “Because I foresaw a civil war in Spain, because I personally turned a loyal member of the Kuomintang government into an asset for British Intelligence. I am mostly here though because I know when someone is lying to me. For example, when you said that your job was to watch France’s political landscape you were lying. Well not strictly lying, that may be part of your job but it is by no means that only reason you are involved with DePaul.” Hunt took a mouth of his beer as Victoria continued to stare at him. Menzies on the other hand was smiling to himself slightly.

“Confident aren’t you,” said Victoria.

“Yes,” replied Hunt.

“Good, you’ll need to be,” she said. “Right, well Stewart you have my report, I have to be in Westminster by quarter past four. Renne is talking me to a play.” With that Victoria got up from the table and exited the bar.

“I like her,” Hunt said. Menzies chuckled.

“She is certainly a required taste. No time for the traditional roles between men and women and she has a temper to her. Ultimately though she is a damn good field agent and I have grown to be quite fond of her,” said Menzies. “Well Gentlemen, I think it is time to finish our drinks and head over to where you will be working for the foreseeable future. The three men quickly downed their beers before getting up and leaving. They walked outside to find a car waiting for them with a well-dressed man standing beside it. He opened the door for them.

“Thank you Joffre,” said Menzies as he got in. After they got in and the car drove off. The group was only on the road for a few minutes before they stopped. When they got out Hunt saw that they were in front of a building only a few streets away from building 54.

“Obviously we can’t be with the rest of SIS but we still needed to be within the area so they set us up over here,” said Menzies as he opened the door. A lone man stood sat behind a desk reading a paper. He didn’t look up as Hunt and the other two walked past him to a row of elevator doors. In an action all too familiar to Hunt, Menzies pulled out a key and inserted into the elevator panel. Soon Hunt and the party found themselves in an elevator ascending.

“Sir, what is that our section is called,” asked Hunt as the doors opened and they entered a small corridor.

“That, Mr. Hunt is an excellent question,” replied Menzies. “There are off course, several different names for us. My good friend Sir Sinclair for example calls us his Secret Section and the women downstairs call us the Unspeakables.” They came to a rather unimpressive door that Menzies pulled out a key for. “I on the other much prefer the name one of your now colleagues gave this section.” He opened the door and Hunt saw a large room filled with about fifty people all taking, rushing about, and on the phone. It was very loud and very active. “Gentlemen, welcome to the Watchtower.”

 

[JustThatGuy]

As always a great update, but you might want to nominate the successor to Character Writer of the Week. You're six days late.

http://forum.paradoxplaza.com/forum/showthread.php?250368-Best-Character-Writer-of-the-Week-Melron

 

[KLorberau]

Im liking this AAR.....great updates......

 

[Melron]

The Lion's Roar

Chapter 8​

A Nation in Crisis​

August 5th 1936-January 18th 1937​

While Britain continued to recover, the government decided to expanded the scope of its recovery laws. While the effects of the previous round of nationalization, grants, and loans were still being analysed, Baldwin pushed further acts through Parliament to increase the speed of the recovery. While the first set of laws was mildly unpopular for the Prime Minister’s leadership, the second round was incredibly detested. The main reason being that the opposition within Parliament was more vocal and cracks began to appear within Baldwin’s National Front coalition, thus making it harder for the government to present a unified effort to convince the people of the good within the expanded bills. These new acts, along with an advance in industrial efficiency and production of current factories did increased British industrial output significantly.

​

British Industrial output increased roughly fifty per cent​

In International news, on September 14, the bloody civil war in China finally came to an end after years of fighting. A combined Nationalist and Ma Clique offensive managed to break through the communist defences and capture the city of Yan’an. The vast majority of the Chinese Communist leaders were summarily rounded up and executed while Mao himself along with several of his most loyal followers managed to escape. Currently their whereabouts are unknown but many assume he has fled further north into the protection of the USSR. The former territories were quickly divided up between the two Chinese factions. There are still large amounts of troops stationed in the region, thus leading to a very heavy handed response to any potential communist dissent.

​

The end of the Chinese civil war, though bloody, will hopefully lead to peace in the region​

Back at home, there were more protests over Baldwin’s new recovery package. One of the major sticking points was the reallocation of resources away from the shipbuilding industry towards other areas of manufacturing. This caused a lot of hardship for those in the north, were the majority of the ship building industry was located. Jarrow, a boom town built around servicing that industry was hit very hard by the economic depression and even harder by the new recovery package. Seeing their life’s work slip away, many from the town march south to London in protest. Though Baldwin refused to meet them on October 3rd when they arrived in the city, as it may have set a precedent for further actions from other groups, he did feel sympathetic to their cause and agree to funnel some money into the region. Baldwin also later met with Chamberlin and discussed plans for involving Jarrow in the future expansion of the Royal Navy, so far expected to begin next year.

The march from Jarrow generated a lot of public sympathy for those in similar towns​

Despite his best efforts, Baldwin was facing difficulty in his leadership of the government. His plans for recovery were growing more and more unpopular every day. Public trust in his party’s rule was shrinking by the day. In addition, he was being mercilessly satirized by the press on a daily basis.

​

As Baldwin’s popularity began to drop it became harder for him to lead the government​

On the twelfth of November came news that the new King, Edward VIII plans to marry an American by the name of Wallis Simpson. Though mostly unknown to the British public, she was quite popular within the social elite, most for her lifestyle choices however. She had thus far divorced one of her husbands and was in the process of divorcing another when the engagement was official announced. This of course caused a scandal as the King was the head of the Church of England; he was not allowed to marry someone who had divorced someone who was still alive, let along someone with two divorces. However, many within the public realm saw Mrs. Simpson as someone who was after fame or riches and they suspected that she did not truly love the King.

Mrs. Simpson was well known in the upper echelon of society for her unusual lifestyle​

The Government on the other hand had their own reasons for concern. Her friendliness towards the Germans made her a concern but also the secret service or MI5 had strong suspicions that she was also having an affair with Ribbentrop, Germany’s ambassdor to the United Kingdom. Thus Mrs. Simpson was at least an embarrassment and possibly a serious threat to the British Empire. This coupled with Edward’s VIII general unpopularity within the empire for his political views and lack of interest in domestic matters left Baldwin’s government with little choice. The government would not formally represent Edward VIII if he married the American Wallis. The king himself responded that he would not rule without a government and stated that he may abdicate so he could still marry Mrs. Simpson as he claimed that he loved her.

Both the government’s and the Kings positions became clear in the coming days after the announcement​

Several days later though, the country did receive some good news. The first set of new factories commissioned by the government opened. In a ceremony lead by the Prime Minister himself, Baldwin stated that this was the “first and most important step in rebuilding the British economy.” By the eighteenth of the November, eight new factories had started production. While the majority of this new facilities were opened in the north of England or Scotland, one was built in the Indian city of Madras. Though there were those that opposed this, Baldwin argued that when trying to rebuild the British economy, as a global imperial power, one cannot purely focus on the British Isles. “We must improve the quality of life for all our citizens,” stated Baldwin in support of his decision.

Baldwin giving a speech in Scotland during a factory opening ceremony​

As November turned into December, the Empire prepared to celebrate Christmas but had little to truly be cheerful for. It had a Monarchy in crisis, along with a government that was unpopular with its own people. In addition, despite intense sacrifice and large spending, the British economy was still in tatters. Little had improved for the average citizen.

A sombre mood descended over Britain in the winter of 36 as after a year of sacrifices, little had changed​

The New Year came with many hoping that it would be better than last. Within the first few days this hope had been kindled. On January 3rd, Parliament officially passed the Public Order act of 1936. This was in response to Battle of Cable Street in October of last year. During a demonstration by the British Union of Fascists marched through a Jewish neighbourhood in East London, anti-fascist protesters and Metropolitan Police clashed with the BUF lead by Oswald Mosley and successfully expelled them from area. Though it took Parliament some time as they were grappling with other issues, the act tightened down on political demonstrations and placed further restrictions on fringe groups. At least for the moment, the British had refused to tolerate the barbaric nature of fascism within their country.

So far Britain had resisted the temptation of fascism​

However, the good news did not last. Following a series of increasingly nationalist and quasi-fascist demonstrations across Egypt, the British government directly intervened. Normally, Whitehall is quite happy to let the local authorities deal with most public problems. However, when Farouk I came to the throne of Egypt in 1936, it was clear his policies aligned with those groups. The UK was determined to keep Egypt because it was a key strategic position. Not only was it located near the Suez Canal, but it also had a large port for the Royal Navy to conduct operations in the Mediterranean Sea and from Egypt, one could strike into Sudan, Transjordan, and Libya. In addition, with the events in Spain growing bloodier because of fascist intervention, those in Whitehall were determined to try and contain the dangerous political ideology. Thus London decided to send in more troops into the strategic country to discourage further protests and keep a closer eye on Egyptian politics. More British oversight in the country only ended up angering the local population and further riots and protests flared across the region.

The UK became increasing intolerant of fascist movements internationally after the bloody affair in Spain and Ethiopia​

As with any new year, a series of high ranking government meetings commenced to decide where to use the limited resources over the coming year. The majority of production capacity was still working on finishing the last round of factories but they would soon be done. Therefore the government decided to continue with the modernization of the Royal Navy. Many British towns and jobs relied on the shipbuilding industry so this would also help revitalize these areas. In addition, the Admiralty had nearly finished with new designs for a Battleship that would stay within the confines of the Second London Treaty. Battleships were not the only vessels being modernized. New Tribal class destroyers along with Town Class light cruisers and Surry Class heavy cruisers were also ready to begin production.

Already the largest, the Royal Navy was well on its way to becoming the most modern and powerful fleet in the world​

 

[KLorberau]

Woohoo! Nice update. Keep 'em coming!

 

[Belgiumruler]

Woohoo! Nice update. Keep 'em coming!

I agree!

 

[Melron]

KLorbearu

Woohoo! Nice update. Keep 'em coming!

Belgiumruler

I agree!

Thank you both. I always do appreciate kind words of encouragement.

 

[Melron]

The Lion's Roar

Chapter 9​

An Empire Divided​

January 18th-July 1st, 1937​

Compared to other nations, Britons generally felt proud of their history and culture. Their mixture of Anglo-Saxon and Celtic heritage allowed for relatively easy access to a fair legal system. Common-law in England and Wales also protected the people by creating a common system of law for everyone. In addition, The English were proud of the fact that they were one of the first people in Europe to challenge the absolute authority of their King and implement a quasi-constitution called the Manga Carta which later paved the way for an actual constitution during the late 17th century. Briton’s were generally quite proud of the fact that while many European’s met in secret and spoke in hush whispers of the glories of freedom and democracy, those on the British Isles already had it. However, with the creation of the empire, it created a hypocritical reality. A people which cherished and adored their liberties, now ruled over millions who dreamed of the same. Though there were those that were proud to be citizens of the British Empire and enjoyed a fair amount of local rule, acceptance of British rule was by no means throughout.

This fact became no clearer then on February 5th 1937. While dissent had increased continually throughout the Empire ever since the revolts in Palestine and the increase of troop numbers in Egypt, many assumed though these concerns would be addressed diplomatically and through the local colonial channels created for this very reason. However, this did not occur and a wide-spread colonial uprising took place on the 5th.

Colonial revolts took place throughout the empire​

Several of these independence groups rose up again in Palestine and Egypt but the majority of these uprisings took place on the Indian subcontinent. SIS and colonial officials estimated that his had to do with the Government of Indian Act 1935 and the recent local election. The act passed by Parliament allowed for much more local autonomy than ever before in the region. It allowed for the creation of an Indian National Congress and for them to conduct the majority of Indian affairs. However, some simply saw it as another way of keeping the subcontinent under British rule and others were disappointed with the outcome of the election. Thus many local groups rose up. Because of the lack of forces in the region, many towns, provinces and even major cities were captured by the rebel forces.

Rebels popped up across the empire and even the city of New Delhi was under threat​

British Colonial troops were mobilised to deal with the threat. However, for the most part they were hundreds of miles from the problem areas. In addition, Whitehall was determined not to use front line troops thus limiting the response to local formations and, wherever possible, specially trained military police units. On the 18th of February, as colonial forces were moving in to deal with the revolts, the British government, along with collaboration from the Indian National Congress, Sir Robert Cassels Commander in Chief of India and Victor Hope, the Governor-General and Viceroy of India decided to create an official Army of India. This would create a more streamlined command and control process on the subcontinent whilst also allowing for the raising of more troops from the region.

The newly created Army of India was welcomed in the region​

Two days after the announcement, more bad news reached London. Inspired by the previous revolts, of which some were still on going, more bands of local resistance popped up. While the vast majority of these were in Indian and the Middle-East, something that did not surprise the British government, what did shock them though was that a mixture of ex members of the IRA and retired army troops rose up in Belfast. They took the Royal Ulster Constabulary force by surprise and stormed into Stormont Parliament Building along with other local government offices and declared Ulster free from British rule. This was something that those in Whitehall could not take lightly. Tensions in Northern Ireland had been high ever since the split in 1922 and the British were determined not to start another conflict like in 1919.

On the 20th, more disturbing news reached London​

While the British were usually unwilling to send in proper troops to put down rebellions, the declaration of independence worried the government who therefore decided to send in the 14th Indian Infantry division under the command of Richard Dewing. The 14th was in the south of England on a training assignment with other commonwealth units when it was tasked with re-taking Belfast. Well trained, equipped and lead, there was almost no doubt that they would. That being said, the government and Baldwin especially were determined to keep civilian casualties to a minimal though. Thus they insisted that the division’s heavy artillery be left in England and that they go through specialized urban and guerrilla warfare training. After the planning had been finished, the 14th was shipped over to Newry, just south of Belfast on the 10th of March. The division then marched on Belfast, with 77th infantry Brigade moving east through the suburbs of Lisburn and Dunmurry, the 78th moved southwest through Newtownbreda , while the 79th marched west through Dundonald. Fighting was initially very light with only scattered resistance for the division but as the 14th moved into the city proper, fighting increased. It reached its peak in the industrial and ship building centre to the north. There the 14th was forced to use light mortars and grenades to flush out the rebels which caused more damage to the area and increased the risk of civilian casualties. By the 12th of March, all enemy forces had been driven out of the city with very light casualties and no deaths for the 14th. No civilians had so far died but several had been wounded and others arrested for aiding fighters.

Belfast, normally a quite lively city had its street’s cleared while police and military units swept the city​

The vast majority of rebel fighters in the city had either been captured or killed, but some, including certain leaders did manage to escape to Larne in the north. Larne was a small industrial and shipping town with its own natural harbour. The British Secret Service, otherwise known as MI5, thought that the group was hoping to be evacuated by sympathetic groups or individuals but so far none had come. Just in case, the small task force that had escorted the 14th to N. Ireland placed themselves just outside the harbour to prevent any aid reaching the group by sea. After securing the Belfast and assisting the RUC in rounding up sympathizers, the 14th moved north to Larne. They encircled the town by the 15th and sent a messenger in asking that the group surrender. General Dewing had received orders from Whitehall not to assault Larne until absolutely necessary. However, by the 19th he had lost his patience with the rebel group and ordered his men into the town. The 77th faced light fighting along the Old Glenarm Road but other than that there was almost no resistance as the 14th marched into the city. With very little ammunition and food, most fighters saw very little reason in resisting and simply threw down their weapons as British soldiers approached. General Dewing, and later those in London were surprised when over a thousand fighters surrender to the 14th. As for the leaders, most had decided to shoot themselves rather than be captured. Those that were returned to Belfast but with handcuffs on and in the back of military truck to face trial.

By the 19th peace had been restored to N. Ireland, thanks to the General Dewing and his division​

Other rebel groups and revolts across the empire were also soon put down. After viscous fighting in the north and southeast, India was free from violence on the 21st of March. Four days later, local Egyptian troops captured the last of the fighters along the Nile, ending the disturbances in the Middle-East for now. In every region that there were revolts or rebels, police units, with assistance from military intelligence, tracked down the leaders who had escaped and quickly arrested them. They would all face trial in their local jurisdiction though the British government would keep an eye on the results.

Both India and Egypt returned to peace by 25th of March​

As the revolts and rebellions were being put down, the Royal Navy continued its program of expansion and modernization. On the 3rd of March, ten new Tribal class destroyer flotillas were commissioned. One of the most advanced destroyers in the world, the Tribal’s could travel at 38 kilometres an hour and had maximum ranger over 3200KM. New light and heavy cruisers were expected to be commissioned within the coming months. On the 9th of April, the Royal Navy officially announced it was building five new battleships. Called the George V class in honour of the former king, these ships were be several of the most powerful and advanced in the world. Each equipped with ten, 14inch guns, these vessels with destroy anything within their path. The RN even announced the names of the future vessels, George V, Prince of Wales, Duke of York, Howe and Anson.

The future battleship of the Royal Navy, George V class​

While the Royal Navy continued to expand, disturbing news came out of the Far East on July 1st. After years of tensions, Japan had officially declared war against Chiang Kai-shek’s nationalist forces following a small skirmish outside of Peking. SIS estimated that while the Chinese did have numbers on their side, especially if Chiang could call in the other warlords of China to his aid, the Imperial Japanese Army was far more experienced, better lead, and better equipped. Therefore, without serious outside aid, Chinese forces would not last long against the IJA.

​

The long term effects of the Second Sino-Japanese war would change the balance of power within the whole region​

 

[Melron]

The Lion's Roar

Chapter Ten​

A Question of Principle​

Intelligence officer Richard Hunt turned over a page in his file, reading the dizzying amount of facts and statistics. Hunt was actually surprised by the amount of information he had in front of him. Ever since SIS’s budget had been cut about eighteen months ago, the intelligence service had mostly gone over to passive information gathering along with only using the assets already in place. Apparently the Hong Kong branch still has some good people in it, thought Hunt.

The file he had in front of him was as much information and statistics that MI6 could get together on the conflict in China. Originally Hunt had been working on the Spanish Civil war since he had arrived at the Watchtower. He had already given several briefings about it to Menzies and even on one occasion to Sir Sinclair himself. However, three days ago Menzies had come over to Hunt’s desk.

“Mr. Hunt, any new news for me today,” said Menzies as he sat down across from the young intelligence officer. Hunt smiled at his section chief. He had grown to like his boss as Menzies gave him enough flexibility to do his job. In turn, Menzies had gained a strong officer who had provided the section chief with vital information that made the Watchtower look good to Sir Sinclair and the Government.

Hunt pulled out a file from his desk and placed in front of Menzies. It was rather small as it only contained several days’ worth of information but Hunt was confident it was what Menzies wanted.

“You’ll find it there, Sir” replied Hunt. Menzies picked up the file.
“Ah yes, Mr. Hunt but would be kind enough to provided me with the short hand,” asked Menzies. Hunt nodded.

“Without sounding overly self-righteous the Spanish Civil War is turning out more or less how I thought. While the Nationalist forces had the initial advantage in surprise and technology, Republicans are slowly turning the tide. Though the Republicans lost a lot of land very quickly, especially in the south, the Nationalist failed to eliminate many of their troops. Thus numbers and increasing international assistance is turning the tide. I don’t predict it will be long before Republican forces retake Madrid or even the Nationalist stronghold of Burgos,” said Hunt.

​

Front lines of the Spanish Civil War as of July, 1937​

“Good and how deep is the Soviet penetration of the Republican government,” asked Menzies. Hunt had been expecting that question as it was on everyone’s mind when they discussed the Civil War. It had even led some, as well as certain MPs, to ask whether support should be given to the Nationalist. A disturbing thought given the actions taken by certain Nationalist groups during the fighting.

“There can be no doubt that the Republican government is somewhat influenced by the Soviet Union. However, this is mainly because of the amount of aid being given to them by the USSR. In addition, as this is seen as a fight against fascisms, many socialist and communist are likely to support the Republican government, especially after what happened in Italy.”

“I thought you said the Falanges were not fascist,” asked Menzies looking up from the file.

“There not, they are mostly a far right organization with fascist tendencies, but they are not ultimately fascist. However, because they are being supported by the Italian Fascist and German Nazis they appear to be. Ultimately though, the Spanish Popular Front is more liberal then socialist along with most of the Spanish people. Though they may appear to be red, that is only because of Soviet support, when the Republicans win the war, which I believe they will, the government will swing more towards us then the Conintern,” replied Hunt.

Concerns of Communist influence on the Republican government were high as a fair amount of Soviet equipment was used on the front​

“Good,” said Menzies. “I want you to compile everything you have and hand it all over to Stevenson on Iberia Desk.” Hunt was taken aback. The Watchtower already had an Iberia Desk lead by Stevenson but Menzies had allowed Hunt to work independently on the Spanish Civil War since he arrived nearly a year ago.

“I have something else for you to work on,” said Menzies. I assume you have learnt of the opening of hostilities between Imperial Japan and Chiang Kai-shek’s nationalist forces.” Hunt nodded. “Good, then I want you to get a copy of everything we have from Far East Desk and also any information your old colleagues from Hong Kong station can give you. I want a full report of this collective information along with any predications and recommendations that you may have as soon as possible.”

“Will do, Sir” replied Hunt. With that Hunt had compiled everything he could. There were stacks of files and papers on his desk and dozens of documents with the words “TOP SECERT” and “EYES ONLY” stamped across them. While the files from Far East Desk had been easy to get, Hunt had only just received copies from the Hong Kong station that morning and was rushing to get through them all. Most of the reports were not encouraging. Imperial Japanese Army infantry outclassed Chinese troops in every way. Most NRA division didn’t even have specialist artillery or engineer brigades attached to them. Early engagements in and around Peking had already resulted in heavy casualties for the Kuomintang Chinese forces with little for the IJA. In addition, the IJA had local numerical superiority with the majority of the NRA forces being scattered throughout republican controlled territory.

Japanese forces fighting around Beijing​

“Mr. Hunt,” a voice called. The young intelligence officer looked up from the file he was reading. Menzies was standing outside his office with the door open looking at him. “If you would kindly join me, please.” Hunt pulled out his half-finished report from his desk draw and walked into Menzies office. Victoria Willis was also in the office, sitting in one of the chairs with a file on her lap. Victoria had been pulled out of Paris six weeks ago after DePaul’s wife had found out he was having several affairs with different women. This had become quite public and several French tabloid papers had reported on it. Fortunately, Victoria had mostly stayed out the press, but she was no longer needed in Paris, especially as DePaul had lost all political clout in the republic because of the affair. Happily though, SIS had a few other officers keeping an eye on the French political arena.

“I’m afraid that I am not quite finished with my report, Sir” Hunt said sitting down in another chair next to Victoria.

“Nor I, sir,” said Victoria.

“No, I didn’t expect you two to be finished by now but I’m being called to a meeting with heads of the other sections and Hugh in an hour but I wanted your opinions on the situation in Asia right now as I will not doubt have to give mine. Ms. Willis why don’t we start with you,” said Menzies. Hunt looked over to Victoria.

“Alright,” she said. “The outbreak of fighting between the Empire of Japan and the Chinese factions is not all that surprising. Tokyo has been steadily increasing its influence in the region for the last fifty years: The conquest of Korea, the Sino-Japanese War, the Russo-Japanese war, etc. I see it as more of a surprise that it took so long for open hostilities to commence, especially after the invasion of Manchuria. In all likelihood, the Marco Polo bridge incident was caused by the IJA in order gain more influence in Tokyo. The Army and Navy have been competing against each other for years but recently the Admiralty have gained the upper hand. At the present moment, NRA forces don’t stand much of a chance against the IJA. Their equipment and leadership is subpar compared the Japanese. In addition, German support has ended to the Kuomintang regime as they are trying to get the Japanese to sign a pact of friendship with the Reich. Even with the other warlord’s assistance the best the Chinese can hope for is to fight the Japanese into a stalemate in mountains of the interior. International assistance could help tip the scale of war in their favour but it would have to be substantial in military and economic means.

“That being said, I would recommend we stay out of the conflict, both political and militarily. The UK and the other League of Nations members is not likely to want to spend military assets to fight a conflict thousands of miles away in a region that not too many people care about. In addition, if we stand any chance in convincing the Japanese to support us or at least stay neutral in a future conflict against Germany, any negative response to the fighting in China will only further lessen it.” Menzies nodded and remained silent for a minute while he thought over what Victoria said. He then looked at Hunt.

“And yourself, Mr. Hunt,” Menzies asked.

“While I agree with Ms. Willis explanation of why the conflict has occurred, I disagree with recommendation of no reaction. If these intelligence briefings are correct then the IJA has violated international law by purposely starting a war. Something which the League of Nations was created to stop. We have already set a dangerous precedent by doing nothing in Ethiopia and nothing in Manchuria,” said Hunt. “If we want international law to be respected and abided by then we cannot pick and choose when we wish to enforce them. Especially if we wish to check the rising power of Germany and Italy, the League of Nations, including the UK and France need to appear strong as well as show that we are not afraid to enforce the international rule of law. It’s a matter of principle.”

“Ms. Willis, rebuttal,” asked Menzies.

“I think Mr. Hunt is taking too much of a Realist approach. We simply cannot interfere as the public, as well as other nations will not want to. In addition, as you have pointed out we have not got involved in the past. If we do so now it will appear arbitrary and in all likelihood garner international support for those that oppose us,” she replied. “In addition, principle is not a convincing argument to interfere in a conflict between two nations.”

“Then all the more reason to start now. If we do not stand by international law now, then when will we? Unfortunately we cannot correct the mistakes of the past but we can prevent them from recurring again. And principle is an excellent reason for conflict. Thousands of wars have been fought for the petty reason of power and resources. Not nearly enough have been fought for principle,” said Hunt.

“Name one conflict, that had a positive impact on the world that was fought for principle,” said Victoria slightly losing her patience with Hunt.

“The English Civil war for one…” began Hunt.

“A war that killed nearly a million people in one way or another,” cut in Victoria.

“Yes,” said Hunt. “Because the British, as a people proved that we would not accept arbitrary rule from a single individual and that they would fight for the principle that political power ultimately comes from them. The Napoleonic wars were another. Europeans proved that they would not accept being subjected by a foreign power. The American’s also believe their independence was gained because of principle.”

“Well I am of the opinion that you are speaking utter nonsense,” said Victoria shaking her head. Silence descended over the office as the debate ended and Menzies sat in silence for a few minutes digesting what he just heard. Eventually he spoke

“Thank you both for your opinions, I do appreciate them. I’ll want reports from both of you by tomorrow morning. Now if you will excuse me I have a meeting to prepare for.” Hunt and Victoria both stood up and walked towards to the door. Before he opened it though, Hunt turned around.

“What will you tell Sir. Sinclair,” he asked. Menzies looked into Hunts eyes for a moment and sat back in his chair.

“I plan on saying that standing up for International law is not a question of politics or military strength, but a question of principle. I have always been of the opinion that principle has always been vastly important to the British,” he said smiling slightly.

 

[red_KLG]

Thanks for yet another excellent update !!!

 

[misterbean]

Liked the debate very much. We don't get nearly enough of these, making us stop and think what we would have done if we had been in power at the time.