NationStates Jolt Archive

This is for the RP to be found here. (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=462780). We're still (AFAIK) welcoming people joining, but please join there before posting here...

Terror Incognitia:
A nation of the Indonesian archipelago, Terror Incognitia sprawls across almost the entirety of Indonesia, the island parts of Malaysia, and New Guinea, along with further small islands around the place generally.

Politically, Incognitia resembles somewhat the English system of the late Middle Ages, having a series of quasi-feudal lords, owing loyalty to the High Seneschal; and a consultative body, the Consilium, which is looked to for approval of certain legislative activities. Consiliar approval also shows ‘popular’ support for a measure.

However, in important differences, the succession is not directly hereditary; rather the Consilium selects the most suitable candidate of royal blood to succeed the throne.
Equally, as a maritime nation heavily dependent upon trade, the merchant class have substantial political influence, and Consiliar representation. And though the ruler can ignore the Consilium, he would be somewhat unwise to do so too often.

This system has grown up as a result of the slightly bizarre circumstances in which Incognitia was founded. An extremely lost Roman merchant with Republican sympathies found somewhere vaguely congenial to settle; he was soon joined by an assortment of nationalities, and (voluntarily) local tribes. The resulting nation grew steadily over the following centuries, and never lost a consultative aspect to its government that initially resulted from one merchant’s distaste for Augustus Caesar.

In terms of population, totalling some 20 millions, though censuses are irregular and imprecise, this is concentrated on Borneo, where is located the capital, Nescia, and on New Guinea, where the most significant sea-port MenZerte is to be found.
Nescia is a city of over a million people, approaching the practical limit for any pre-industrial city, and MenZerte has hundreds of thousands of denizens.
The vast majority of the population are however rural, and the substantial urban and maritime minorities are outnumbered by a peasantry free from serf status and in the throes of a revolution in production for sale rather than personal consumption. Arable crops mix with rice to amply sustain the people with locally grown foodstuffs, generating a regular surplus.

In the cities a growing number rely on trade, both internal and foreign, for their welfare. And apart from certain specialised manufactures, such as ‘Damascene’ steel and Austian silk, Incognitian products compete with the best in the world in quantity, quality and price. This has led to an ever-growing merchant fleet, often considered in the absence of certain figures the largest in the world. What is certain is that almost all Incognitian and a substantial quantity of third-party trade is carried in Incognitian bottoms.

As befits a maritime, island based trading nation, Terror Incognitia’s navy is large, well funded, well trained, and up to date with the latest technology and tactics. To protect trade, the lifeblood of the nation, they have to be. The Marines are equally effective, in ship to ship and limited shore actions. However, they rarely operate in units of more than 1000 men, and have no cavalry arm. The army is generally less well supported than the Navy, and has seen less recent action. However, with transferred Marines and Incognitian who have served abroad as mercenaries providing a disciplined core, and the slow development of new pike and arquebus tactics, it may well become a force to reckon with. Having no proud recent tradition, it is open to new ideas and technologies rewriting the rules of war.

Diplomatically, Incognitia has recently been emerging from a period of splendid isolation, to develop an active foreign policy. Protection of trading interests, along with security fears, has prompted new enmities, and new alliances. Where this will lead is far from certain. What is quite clear is that we live in interesting times.

Incognitia is surrounded, or almost so, by other nations. China to the North, Kirisubo and Frozopia to the North East; far to the East but coming closer is Caladonn, somewhat closer is Angermanland; to the South is Aust; newly to the South West, Kilani. Being a maritime power, Incognitia can bypass these to reach virgin territories; the question is whether she should. Great opportunities await; as long as the independent trading and economic development of the nation can be sustained. This may call for wars of conquest, colonisation, and captive markets. It may require diplomacy and peaceful trading. There may be wars to prevent piracy and enforce trade terms. In conclusion, Terror Incognitia is racing not for territory and tribute, but for trade and the Industrial Age. Barring catastrophe, she will reach it first; and parlay that advantage into a power on the world stage unmatched by any larger, more populous, but far more backward state.

(Sorry for making you wade through that, but it gives some idea what I'm all about).

Any diplomatic contact on my territory probably best handled here.

ooc: once the whole contact dealy in my thread is done, you'll be seeing angerman ships here :) note: Angermanland has NO iorn or bronze. Greenstone is supperior to bronze for most things, about equile to iron for anything other than machinery, and inferior to steal in all ways except, perhaps, duribility under stress... a steal sword probibly won't break a one of my.. umm.. ... drat, i'm really going to have too look up what those are called at some point. anyway, greenstone is a type of jade. so there is some lucritve trade to be had once we get to it.

oh.. and i guess that explaines the latin :D

Yeah, I added that bit just to explain how I can conveniently speak to everyone :p Greenstone sounds interesting. We're bound to have stuff to give you for it.

that Type of jade is less common than gold, if you'd credit it . we allso have some Awsome woods.... but they take a very long time to grow, so that's kinda a rare comodity. on the other hand, hardend in peat bogs for a couple of decades, it also makes weaponary that can compeate with all but the best steal.

ooc: heres the first contact with Kirisubo coming your way

ic:

the Kirisuban Merchant ship 'Hakodate maiden' was in a bad way.

having been through two typhoons they were totally lost, badly damaged and running low on food.

Their water was also nearly gone as well.

the Captain-Pilot Rokichi was one of the few surviors left. out off a crew of 30 there was only 6 men left including himself. Most had died from disease and their bodies had already been thrown overboard to try and stop it spreading.

All he could do was try and steer south hoping to hit land and hope that the storms blew them there before they sank his junk.

A few days later he reached the waters of Terror Incognito and the nation that no one from Kirisubo had visited before.

their masts and sails were practically gone and the ship still driven by the strong winds they arrived at night near a rocky coastline.

Boredom.

That was the one word for what the sailors in the regular patrol out of Nescia felt.

At least until the lookout called down that there was something halfway between a ship and a wreck up ahead. A fast cutter was sent to investigate, the heavier frigates following on, though it didn't look like any threat.

They would assist these foreign mariners, as part of the brotherhood of the sea. And if there were no survivors when they got there...well, salvage was a wonderful thing.

In his cabin the Kirisuban Captain wrote up his log in case the ship was found. At least their rescuers would know what happened on their journey if none of them were alive.

He finishes and heads back to the deck himself sick from the scurvy that was affecting the crew.

"reef ahead" the look out says not yet spotting the approaching ships.

The Captain takes the tiller and steers hard to port to clear the rocks and a big wave washes over the ship sending two more of his crew into the ocean.

He loses consiousness and the last thing he sees is a rocky coastline....

ooc: only the captain and 3 of his crew will be found and they're all in a bad way. the ship is flying the Kirisuban standard of a red sun on a black field

Someone was obviously alive on the vessel...they had just taken evasive action from a shoal marked on most charts...as had already been gathered from the foreign design, they weren't from around here.

Despite having avoided the shoal, they were headed for the shore. As the cutter came alongside carefully, finding no-one mobile on deck, the Incognitian sailors swiftly familiarised themselves with the vessel and headed it out into open water again. One of the frigates would have to tow her into harbour.

With the immediate crisis averted, they looked to the crew. Obviously foreign. Equally obviously they were all on the cusp between life and death. Beginning by giving each of them fresh water, the crewmen called across to the cutter, which raised signal flags explaining the situation to the frigates. Medical assistance would be sent, and a tow begun. Meanwhile, contact would be kept to a minimum until they could be sure it was exposure not infection that had laid the men of this vessel low.

Captain Rokichi comes round to see foreigners on his ship.

Not being able to focus his vision yet he says weakly in Kirisuban "thank you for helping. theres only 4 of us left" before blacking out again.

He's showing the signs of scurvy and dehydration as are the rest of his crew.

ooc: Kirisuban sounds similar to Hanese and they use the same written characters. They're completely different languages although.

Kirisubans also look like the Hanese as well.

The men close enough to hear the foreigner's words couldn't understand them. But they knew what needed doing.


Some time later...
With the ship in harbour, repaired enough to continue floating, so her cargo could be left untouched, and the crew from her recuperating in a sailor's mission (think hospital, for mariners), the situation was stable. It would take time, but when they had recovered, Incognitia's best linguists would be on hand to make sense of the whole thing.


ooc: Just thought, does this mean you're pulling out of the Aust invasion?

ooc: i'm still involved in the triple alliance. this is just a first contact and these are civilians not military. its slightly edited to allow for the passage of time.

ic: The Kirisuban captain comes round again after a few day rest and treatment to find himself and his 3 other crew in beds and indoors.

struggling to sit up in his bed he takes a good look round him and sees the other crew men still sleeping.

another couple of days pass and the kirisubans feel ready to find out whats past the room they're in..

ooc: hey, kurisubo, you might want to try writeing in past tense. it's a lot easery to read.

ooc: Okay. I agree entirely, especially cos the Triple Alliance are the bad guys :p (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy, shortly pre-WW1)

ic: The medical attendants reported that the Kirisuban sailors, for that is what they had been identified as, were stirring.

A language expert had been rousted out of the university for the purpose of communicating with them. While he had made Hanese his lifetime's study, he had spent some years looking at the history of their relations with Kirisubo, that reclusive island chain, and had some grasp of their language, if a somewhat archaic form.

The next time the sailors awoke, he was summoned to their bedside, and the Admiral of the Port followed shortly afterwards, as any sailors rescued came under his jurisdiction, and first contact with a new people was thought to merit his time.

ooc: wadda you mean by bad guys :p

the Kirisubans bow to their visitors and then sit on their beds attentive and alert.

Captain Rokichi introduces himself as the Captain and Pilot of the Hakodate Maiden using the little latin he's picked up from dealing with the Frozopians and Ostians and a mix of Kirisuban.

he also asks "honourable Admiral, where are we? Which land is this?"

The Admiral spoke in Latin. The scholar then translated into rudimentary Kirisuban.

"This land is Terror Incognitia, first land south of Cathay, and last land north of Aust. Your ship, the Hakodate Maiden, is currently docked in the harbour below us. Your men...well, I am afraid that you four here were all we found. Now, if you don't mind, we have a few questions for you and your men. First of all, what port do you hail from? To what lord do you owe allegiance, if any? Where were you headed? And what happened to your vessel?"

Captain Rokichi does all the talking for his men replying in Kirisuban "Admiral san, the last i remember there were 6 of us and then two were swept overboard in the storm when we reached your shoreline.

We left from the port of Nagasaki sailing back to our home port of Hakodate and then we ran straight into a typhoon after leaving port.

we couldn't make land fall and kept being blown south. another typhoon picked us up and we kept going south until we arrived here.

We started with 30 crew but they all died from scurvy and dehydration. Our merchant was one of the first to go onwards and others were also swept overboard.

Our Daimyo is Lord General Nakamura Toshiro, the ruler of Hokkaido province"

(ooc: Tag, I'll get some ships your way someday, unless you get to me first.)

OOC: Okies. Hyr, happy to receive contact, but if you send them too soon they might get caught in a crossfire.

IC: "We are a sailing nation. We can appreciate the hazards of seafaring. We are sorry for your losses, and are simply glad that we were able to aid you in your time of need. Now, unless you have any questions for me specifically, the professor will remain with you to speak further."

Captain Rokichi supresses his sadness and asks "Admiral san would it be possible to return to our ship later and attempt to make repairs. We can pay for any materials needed from our cargo as modest as it is.

Its important we return home so our duty can be fulfilled"

"Captain, it pains me to have to say this, but I am afraid we cannot allow you to depart.

Our nations are soon to be at war. This state of affairs is now inevitable. We cannot allow experienced sailors such as yourselves to leave our shores having seen one of our major ports.

I assure you that if you give your word not to flee you will have the freedom to wander within the city boundaries, and your welfare will be provided for; however your ship will not be made seaworthy, and you will not be allowed to leave the city, until after the coming conflict. Let us pray that it is swift."

Captain Rokichi replies the translator saying to the Admiral "It seems we have no choice then. We'll live on our ship, fix it up ourselves using our own supplies and you can place guards there if you don't trust us. I've got no choice but to agree. All we need is regular food and water.

Anyway do you really think that four sailors can handle a ship by themselves?

Are these terms agreeable to you?"

"We were going to provide you with accommodation; however, if you are happier on your vessel, we will trust your word.

We will not prevent you trading in the city's markets: you will be able to obtain any supplies you need, and depending on the state of your cargo, possibly make a healthy profit.

I am sorry that this is necessary; sadly I can see no other way that I can fulfil my duty. We bear you no ill-will."

"we know all about duty" Captain Rokichi replies "its the lifeblood of my nation along with honour.

I'm not a merchant but i'm going to have to be one now.

If the doctor thinks we're ready to leave I'd like to spend time with your professsor. If this port will be our home for a while its better we start learning your language and customs"

OOC: terror, it occurs to me: if you want significant military support from Angermanland, you're going to have to provide transport. all the ships that could carry enough men are only costal vessels, and all the ones that could get there couldn't cary enough men, being very narrow and stuff.

so far. eventually i'll get out some large sea going vessles. but they take a while to build, and the war is sort of happening.. now-ish.

"I believe the doctors are agreeable with you departing. I wish you good fortune captain; for now I must leave you; hopefully our paths will cross in happier times."

With that the Admiral departed.

The professor then spoke for himself:
"I would be thrilled to tell you about our nation, our culture, and our language; in exchange only for the chance to learn from you of yours."

OOC: Angermanland, thanks, we'll see how it goes. I won't be able to send many transports until after we face the northern fleet. If they get through, I'll be sending for your aid in something of a hurry. If they don't, we probably won't need assistance. I'll keep the need for transportation in mind.

"Sensai" Captain Rokichi replies to the professor "I think we will have a long time to learn from each other. If you lead the way to our vessel the lessons can start"

he speaks to his remaining crew and explains the situation in more detail for them. they don't seem particularly happy about being stuck in a strange land but they trust their Captain to look after them.

At that the professor began walking down to the dock, a little way downhill from the sailors' mission. Along the way he waved aside, a little impatiently, Marines who had been standing guard; and spoke briefly with physicians clearing the men to leave.

The Kirisuban's ship was in a little-used part of the harbour, to keep it out of the way of the preparations going on elsewhere for war.

"Well, Captain, shall we begin? Or do you first wish to inspect your vessel?"

It was a lead Frozopian ship. Sent weeks in advance, their mission was to secure the route that Frozopia and her allies would take to Aust.
On board was the noble David, and captaining the ship was Sebastian. The ship was constructed 6 years ago, and David was happy with the work. The huge sails that towered over the vessel allowed the Frozopians to make good progress across the ocean, travelling at alarming speeds. William had chosen the ship because of both its speed and its defences, because he only intended to send one ship had it had to be able to protect itself.

Onboard were 35 early cannons, and 10 ballistae as well as 6 catapaults, making the ship very heavily protected. It more than rivalled the Frozopian royal navy ships, which were famous for their weaponry.

On board were several longbowmen and spearmen, eager for the war in Oz, all under the command of their lord.

David sat below deck, reading and re-reading his orders. He understood the importance of his mission, and was nervous but also excited about the whole operation. Hearing the yell of land ahoy, he headed towards the top deck......

OOC: Frozo, what land do you reckon you've spotted? So I can know how to respond...
And just as a warning, my standard patrols at this time are the size of the one fighting Kirisubo. So you're going to be outnumbered and outgunned as and when I come across this vessel.

OOC: Well your land, Im not great on the geography so what ever is furthest north and in my path (preferedly a biggish island). If I am badly outgunned, blame it on my inexperience with the tech, because I meant this ship to be at least quite well armed (could someone give me a site with something on medieval ships around 1600's?).

OOC: I think we're more mid-1500's, at most. So if you Google Mary Rose, that'll give you an idea.
You'll still be outnumbered. And if by chance you come across something heavier than a 3rd-Rate ship of the Line, you'll still be outgunned.
Northern point of Borneo, nearest settlement a port called Kudat.

IC: It took a while for disbelief to fade. But the watch-fires weren't going out. An enemy vessel had come within sight of Incognitia without first being intercepted by one of the numerous patrols.

A patrol leaving the port on the Northern point, called Kudat, was frantically signalled from the port, and redirected to the point the watch-fire chain had started. It would arrive shortly.

OOC:
Few changes, but I still think I am under rating it.

IC:
Sighting the uncoming ships, the Frozopians did all they could to indicate their peaceful intentions. Pulling the ship to a stop, they awaited the approach of the patrol, they frantically waved large white flags......

At that the professor began walking down to the dock, a little way downhill from the sailors' mission. Along the way he waved aside, a little impatiently, Marines who had been standing guard; and spoke briefly with physicians clearing the men to leave.

The Kirisuban's ship was in a little-used part of the harbour, to keep it out of the way of the preparations going on elsewhere for war.

"Well, Captain, shall we begin? Or do you first wish to inspect your vessel?"

"Sensai, I'd like to inspect my ship first to see what needs fixed. since we're not going anywhere i'm sure the mast can wait"

the Hakodate Maiden looked a sight with one mast completly gone and all but one sail left on the other mast. the ropes were intact although.

Rokichi boards the ship and smiles saying "I doubt she was built to face two typhoons but she handled them"

he barks orders to his men and they go below and they find hand axes, folding saws, lumber and knives to start repairing and patching any leaks that could have been overlooked. the last sail is cut down but the Kirisuban flag is still left flying.

"I need something to remind me off home" he adds as he heads to his cabin and looks at the mess. various charts, his rutter (pilots log book) and some wooden cups litter the floor and he starts to tidy the items into a sea chest.

"Professor, have you ever heard of sake?" he asked as he locates a small flask marked with a kanji character.

"I have heard of sake, but never had the chance to drink it. I would welcome the opportunity to taste it.

May I look at your charts?"

"if you can read kirisuban feel free" Rokichi answers "there was nothing to stop you taking them while we were recovering"

the Kirisuban Captain recovers two of the wooden cups and two folding stools for them to sit on.

he pours the sake as the professor unrolls a chart of the north pacific as the Kirisubans know it. only the Han empire and the Kirisuban home islands are shown but certain locations are marked with Kanji legends running down the chart. one of them is the treaty port of Macao in southern china and the the other is Nagasaki, the Kirisuban treaty port they were sailing from. the lattitudes are listed under the dots.

Offering the cup he explains "thats Han China to the west and us as their neighbour. knowing the Han they've decided to expand since that chart was drawn up a century ago. since they kicked out the mongols and unified the 3 kingdoms we've expected them to invade but it has never happened so far.

Still even as we fought our own war we expected it to happen. now we have unified ourselves we'll still be on the alert for invaders whatever nationalty they are"

ooc: the cabin is set out like a Kirisuban room with a wooden floor, tatami mats and a low table with a lamp on it where the captain works.

a mattress and quilt is rolled up neatly in a corner. the desk has a quill pen, several intact ink pots and kneeling mats stored under it for when he uses it.

on the wall hangs his sword, an imported Han long sword. it has a strong blade and a single handed grip. the scabbard is black and the handle is wrapped in red cord.

Frozo:
Seeing that the enemy vessel was waving white flags, one frigate was swiftly signalled to approach and work out what they wanted. The rest would stand off a little way, ready to respond to any hostile action.

On a closer approach, the frigate's Captain called across in Latin, and in Incognitian: "What are you doing in Incognitian waters?"

(No diplomat this captain.)

Kiri:
"Ah, yes, the reclusive, mysterious empire of Han. Or at least they used to be. Some would wish they had stayed that way. I have made their history and language my life's study.

So, you recently finished a civil war, you say? Is your nation weary from the struggle? Or reinvigorated under leadership tested by fire?"

Rokichi shrugs his shoulders and replies drinking some of his sake "all i know about the Han is at least a century out off date. that was the last time our nations had direct contact.

i'm sure they know even less about us.

Regarding the civil war ending its certainly helped trade. I don't know much about the military although. I've always been in merchant ships.

the war ending has given the people hope which is always welcome"

The professor sipped his sake, thoughtfully;
"I see. So, I would presume you have had very little external contact at all during the period of the civil war, and are only now establishing diplomatic and trading links with the outside world. There are many opportunities awaiting your nation, it would seem."

Meanwhile the professor was perusing the logbook, puzzling out aspects of it with his poor understanding of the Kanji script.

Responding in Latin, David called across the gap:
"We are here to meet with the leaders of Terror Incognitia. We have a proposal from Frozopia."

"Our leaders? In that case if you will follow us to Kudat, word will be sent to Nescia, and we will arrange transportation there for a small negotiating party. The remainder of your crew will have to await your return in Kudat."

It would take time, but David still had a month two sort this whole thing out.
"That will be acceptable. Can I bring armed body guards?"

"Personal bodyguards would be permitted. We will, of course, guarantee your safety, but it will be understood that you have not had enough contact with us to fully trust our word."

The professor sipped his sake, thoughtfully;
"I see. So, I would presume you have had very little external contact at all during the period of the civil war, and are only now establishing diplomatic and trading links with the outside world. There are many opportunities awaiting your nation, it would seem."

Meanwhile the professor was perusing the logbook, puzzling out aspects of it with his poor understanding of the Kanji script.

ooc: i doubt the professor could make much sense of the log book without knowing about navigation. the characters may be the same as hanese but the meaning is totally different.

ic: the Kirisuban captain replies "given our past history it's understandable that we're wary of foreign visitors. the mongols after they took over a large chunk of china tried twice to invade us.

Both times we fought them off and the second time we stopped them landing and the gods sent a divine wind to destroy their ships.

the nations that we do have relations with came to us. If peace can be maintained in the region we can send out diplomats but even then we are a cautious people."

noticing the professor taking an interest in his rutter he adds "it won't make much sense unless you know about lattitude and the arts of the pilot"

"I have some limited knowledge of those; I admit I am gaining little from studying this, however, as my lack of experience with your script and language compounds the limits to my knowledge of navigation.

So, what were you trading, when Fate took a hand in your voyage?"

Captain Rokichi refills the cups with sake and replies "it was a normal trading run. We had silks from Han china, rope from europe, sake, soy sauce, writing paper made from rice pulp, whale oil, white rice and things like that.

we have no direct trading links with the Han so other European merchants are the go-betweens.

I don't know if there'll be a market for our goods here. Maybe you would know if our goods would attract interested buyers?"

David called across the gap.
"Agreed. I shall bring 20 bodyguards." Turning to his captain, there were few minutes of discussion before a transportation boat was lowered into the water, and David rowed over to meet the strangers.....

"The silk, the rope and the paper I think we either make here, or trade directly for.
However, most of your other goods could find a market. I am no merchant, so I cannot tell you what price you could get, or what profit; nonetheless it would sell, I believe.
In obvious examples, we do not hunt whales in any numbers, and we do not make sake; so there is a place for you to supply such goods."

Frozo:
Having piped the side to welcome aboard the Frozo party, it all turned into a waste of time as they were immediately transferred to the fast cutter for transport to Nescia. No advance warning would be possible of their arrival, but no wasted time either.

OOC: Will wait for you to transport me to your leader, martian style :D

Or at least a representative.

OOC: Ok. Easily arranged.

IC: There was no fanfare. Just another naval vessel coming into harbour, to outward appearances. However, look a little closer, and you'd see a score of Frozopians crowded aboard the small vessel.
As they approached the dock, the Master of the cutter signalled the Harbourmaster to get a reception of some form ready; as soon as they moored, a runner was sent to the palace.
"If you will follow me, I will take you to the High Seneschal's Palace."

David nodded, and then indicated to his men to carry the large box on the deck. Noticing the funny look, he spoke:
"A gift for whoever we shall meet."

By this point, a palace official had arrived.
"If you don't mind, we would be neglecting our duty to bring that into the presence of our lord without checking it first."

"The silk, the rope and the paper I think we either make here, or trade directly for.
However, most of your other goods could find a market. I am no merchant, so I cannot tell you what price you could get, or what profit; nonetheless it would sell, I believe.
In obvious examples, we do not hunt whales in any numbers, and we do not make sake; so there is a place for you to supply such goods."


Captain Rokichi hears the door knock and he says in Kirisuban "enter".

one of his crew brings in two bowls of steaming white rice and two sets of chop sticks. some pickled vegetables rest on top of the bowls of rice.

"Domo Kochiro" he says as the man depart.

"it looks like the crew's got lunch ready" he says "we could use the silk and rope ourselves. We'll still need to repair the masts and sails at some point. However we would need to return to Kirisubo to get more whale oil and sake and we can't do that yet.

Anyway that can wait. is there any useful words and phrases I would need to know when dealing with the locals"

"Of course!" David nodded to the soldiers, and immediatly they pried open the crate.
"Have a look for yourself."
Inside was a heavy suit of plate armour, crafted beautifully with gold and stones.

"Well, the good news is that we don't have many taboos you're likely to upset inadvertently - this is a nation quite open in it's religious difference and political debate, so most things are open for discussion.

The most useful phrases are <Good day> a general greeting, <Thank you> an expression of gratitude, and <I speak little Incognitian> informing them you don't speak the language very well.

Most will be happy to trade in any language or with simple gestures and numbers."

"Thank you, that will suffice. I am sorry that we must show such a lack of trust.

Now if you will follow me, I can escort you to the palace. I believe the High Seneschal will wish to see you shortly, after he has completed other pressing business."

Captain Rokichi starts eating his lunch, using the chop sticks to roll up the sticky rice into little balls and pops one into his mouth, followed by a chunk of a green vegetable.

"Professor, this is white rice the staple food in China, Kirisubo and quite a few places in the pacific. If you find it too bland some soy sauce will add some taste to it.

is Latin well known here? I speak a little of it"

"I know white rice. You will find that it is quite well known here, there have been immigrants in the past, now part of the general population, who grow and enjoy such food.

The wealthy, the educated and the well travelled will speak Latin to a greater or lesser extent. Any successful merchant will either speak it himself, or employ someone who does; it is still something of a common tongue in many places."

Captain Rokichi smiles and asks the professor "Sensai, would you be able to teach me more latin? in return I could teach you about the northern pacific area and what we know about the Han.

Since we're not going anywhere it makes a lot of sense and we both profit from the exercise"

"Latin? Of course."
OOC(Do you mind if I don't go into much detail, my Latin is rusty and I don't think I can be bothered?)
"Perhaps if we begin with converstional Latin, simple phrases such as you might use in the market."

David nodded and followed, indicating his men to pick up the box.

Arriving at the palace, the guards were dealt with by the official. However,
"I am afraid that your escort will have to remain outside. We can arrange for the gift to be brought in if you wish."

"Latin? Of course."
OOC(Do you mind if I don't go into much detail, my Latin is rusty and I don't think I can be bothered?)
"Perhaps if we begin with converstional Latin, simple phrases such as you might use in the market."

ooc: thats cool with me. my japanese isn't that great either :)

ic: Captain Rokichi places his bowl of rice beside his stool and says "Thank you Sensei. Now is as good a time as any to begin"

David nodded.
"I look forward to meeting this High Seneschal."

Ok, I'll get back to you as soon as I can conclude with Caladonn.

OOC: Hurry......

OOC: Sod it. I haven't checked yet to see if I'm finished with Cala, but....

IC: "Welcome to our fair nation." The High Seneschal had finally had his previous visitors shown out through another door, and welcomed this new emissary.
"Whoever you are, we are always open for trade, and dependent on successful negotiations, diplomatic relations of varying levels."

The waves crashed on the hull of the Aquilla. The beautiful 50 oared galley slid across the water towards the islands of Terror Incognitia. This galley was dispatched from Kurisubo after the news of the assult on Kurisuban naval forces. Its purpose was to find out what was brewing in the minds of Terror Incognitians quietly under cover of diplomatic discussion.

Ostia was not at war yet, no public announcement had ever been made so far..but it would come.

The flags of the Ostian empire fluttered in the wind, a white non agression flag was raised in place of the Emperors Imperial crest. Captian Brutus stood at the bow of the vessel watching land come into veiw,

"Sir! there lies the lands of Terror Incognitia"

OOC: Cheeky claiming you're going to get to my lands unannounced and without being spotted, at least by panicky merchant vessels which then spread the word, if not by a patrol, but, not worth fussing about, so lets get on with it. Say you're near Nescia, the capital, to ease negotiations (probably need a nation map showing major cities. There will be one. Promise.)

IC: The sight of a strange galley swanning along not far from a major port, arrival unannounced, was a nightmare for those responsible for home defence. However, the port cutters swiftly reached the strange vessel, and hailed it. First in Incognitian, then in Latin:

"Welcome strangers. If your intentions are peaceful, then please follow us and we wil direct you to moorings. If they are not, please view the forts above you and reconsider."

Captian Brutus replyed standing on the port side,

"We have come in peace!, afew merchant vessels seemed to take our comming the wrong way..we have no hostile intentions!"

The Aquilla glided towards the city known as Nescia, costal defences and naval traffic were the most common site in the harbor.

OOC:I thought you just would have Rp'd patrols seeing the ship or merchants anyways, i knew i would be spotted. Yes a map, good idea

After the recent northern redeployment of the patrolling task force, patrols were extending further north. A roving cutter straying slightly from it's associated main force had spotted a fairly major island, and brought the remainder to follow it.

There appeared to be a fortified city. Since it was not identifiably belonging to any known power, it was decided to make contact. The patrol stood into potential danger.

OOC: (Wintrees, this is for you....)

OOC: Okay. Saves messing about to have you just arrive I guess.

IC: "In that case, we welcome you to our capital Nescia. Please moor up at that jetty there. A party from the port authorities will be there shortly to welcome you properly, and take representatives up into the city."

Captian Brutus waved to show he understood and the ship continued in. Once the Aquilla was docked Captian Brutus and four guards stepped off the Imperial Ostian ship, Brutus looked around,

"Where's the welcoming party?"

His second in command chuckled...

time passes and as days stretch into weeks and a month Captain Rokichi's latin had improved to the point that he can deal with merchants directly.

The Hakodate Maiden has a regular stream of Incognition merchants coming over to discuss future trading ideas since the Kirisubans can't leave to get more cargo. A small amount of trading does continue as the sake they do have is sold early on apart from samples used for interesting future trading partners.

the professor still calls in from time to time and the crew finally gets to repair one of their masts.

"Where's the welcoming party?" OOC: patience.

IC: A party of marines marched down the dock. In their midst strode Earl Hartnell, a Privy Councillor, and thus a man with a place in the highest political circles.

"Strangers! Welcome to Incognitia. Where do you hail from?"

"We shall proceed to the palace. The High Seneschal may be able to see you later. Until then I can lay some foundations, so to speak."

"Ah yes, your men may leave your vessel and go into the port. But only in small parties, and no firearms; and if there is any trouble the Port Watch will deal with them."

The Kirisubans had begun as a minor sensation. Their story had caught the imagination, of being almost shipwrecked, saved at the last moment, and only a few remaining to be nursed back to health.
Since then, as merchants had dealt with them directly, pressure for direct trade had grown. They certainly didn't realise it, but a substantial group of merchants was now in favour of making peace with Kirisubo as soon as possible so they could trade. These wrecked sailors had been more effective than any number of noble diplomats in swinging opinion.

"I am the Lord David of Frozopia, a frozen waste land far to the north of here. You may have heard of the alliance to invade Aust. I am here to ask your assistance when we enter waters nearby, or at least a promise that you will leave our ships be. We have no qualms with the Terror Incognitians, we only wish to put an end to the Dictator of Aust." David began.

"A bold beginning. Especially since we have already fought your Kirisuban allies for an island to the north of here.

However, I respect that courage. And I wish to tell you, that while we have no desire to see Aust conquered, we would not object to their being humbled. And without disrespecting your prowess in arms, we doubt you could conquer them. So in principle, we would not be opposed to you.

We have signed a deal with Aust, giving us a few minor islands in return for aiding them against you. And while I would not wish to renege on that deal without good reason, I have a responsibility to my people, which includes not sending them away to die unless it is for the good of the nation as a whole.

So in summary, my ears are open. What have you to offer?"

David hid his surprise. The war had spread. Fast.
"Do not doubt the Frozopian sword. You will understand, within time.
We could secure those islands you talk of for you. We could also offer gold, timber, a military alliance, anything so that you cease hostilities with Frozopians or any of our allies. Whatever you wish."

"I am confident that trading with your nation will bring us both gold and timber."
That had been...a flicker of surprise. They hadn't expected fighting to have begun. Interesting.
"And, after this war, neither yourselves nor Aust will be of much military benefit as allies for some time, whatever the result. You are both great nations, so a reckoning between you will bring both low, whether or not one is lower."
"What we wish, is to engage in our other interests, as preparations for this war have...set back...expansion elsewhere. However we need to be sure that our interests will not be harmed by not being involved here. And I may as well tell you now, having Aust as an independent power, not a conquered territory or a vassal state, is in our interest. If you will defeat Aust, but not destroy them, then we can deal with you. But if you are set on conquering Aust in it's entirety, we cannot allow that."
"Obviously mutual defence pacts, trading agreements, etc, would be welcome. And if we are no longer allied with Aust, your giving us the islands would be appreciated. But we must be satisfied on the principle first."

"It is unlikely we could destroy the Austians completely. Our main purpose will be to drive them out of main land Aust, so they can retreat to their home island. There the war will in all likelyhood end."

"We might find that acceptable.

We would have to go to some trouble to remove the Austian Navy from our ports, where they are currently stationed, and would want that to be considered.
And we would not change allegiance for less than a full military alliance, and open trading agreement.
Finally, your Kirisuban allies would have to give up all claims on the Philippines.
However, we would then be able to offer resupply, help against the Austian Navy, and, if not open military assistance, then at least 'volunteer' mercenaries at reasonable rates. And, with diplomacy ongoing with Angermanland, we might be able to bring them onside. In any event, without our warships and transports, they won't be able to involve significant forces.
Essentially, without us, Aust stands alone. No distractions. With us, it becomes a coalition of three powers, with negotiations to add more."

Captian Brutus told one of his officers to inform the soldiers on the ship they may have shore leave in small groups. Brutus and his four guards proceeded to the palace following the group sent to meet them,

"Thank you Mr Hartnell," replyed Brutus...

After brief messages back and forth, it was decided that allowing the two foreign delegations to know of one another's presence was not yet required, so the Ostians were requested to wait outside.
Politely, of course...

"We will talk to the Kiriusbans. We hope that you keep your side of the bargain. I look forward to a continuing peace between our two nations. I think it is time to go, we will send a representative to talk to you once we have seized the islands we have promised for you and removed the Kiriusban from the Phillipines."

"To the best of our knowledge no Kirisubans are currently within the island chain, except lost merchants. We merely want them to recognise our de facto ownership.
I'm afraid your plan will not do. We will not allow any naval forces to enter our territorial waters before a deal is finalised. You may be assured we will not drag our feet, however there are - complications to smooth over. They must be dealt with before your fleet arrives, especially the Austian presence here. And I will not make that leap without a firm deal. If you do not have power to agree to that, we can arrange for a fast boat to take a message to someone who can."

OOC:
I thought it was finalised.

IC:
"Ah yes. Perhaps you wish to write down a clear list of the terms and conditions, and we can sign it?" David replied.

OOC: I stated my conditions, I wasn't sure you'd accepted. If you have that's fine.

IC: "If you find this acceptable, then sign it." The High Seneschal said, signing and putting his seal to a large piece of paper.

A clerk who had been sitting unobtrusively at the back of the room had written the terms as they were spoken, and had now offered his master the piece of paper, and scurried back to make another copy.

"We can then both sign the copy for you to take back. Then, we will need some time to get the Austians clear of our lands and harbours, and from then on things get interesting."

The "Diplomatic Revolution", for so it was already being termed in court circles, had many repercussions, some of them both major and immediate.
First was that the Caladonnians still in the city were summoned to meet the High Seneschal at their earliest convenience.
Second, a series of fast sloops were sent to all the corners of Incognitia carrying the news, and a few sent beyond to necessarily inform diplomacy abroad. OOC(Check individual threads guys).
Third, the Admiral of the Royal Ports, in charge of all the nation's naval dockyards and major trading ports, summoned to him the head of the Austian naval forces in Incognitia, so as to lay down a deadline for their withdrawal from Incognitian waters.

The Frozopians signed the papers and departed. It was time to join the main fleet and then to continue to Aust. David first purchased more supplies, and then the men progressed out to sea. It would be 4 weeks till they came across the Frozopian/allied navy........

With the Frozopians finished, the Ostians were ushered in.

The "Diplomatic Revolution", for so it was already being termed in court circles, had many repercussions, some of them both major and immediate.
First was that the Caladonnians still in the city were summoned to meet the High Seneschal at their earliest convenience.
The Caladonnian diplomats returned to meet the High Seneschal. Upon being granted an audience, they bowed, and said, "Greetings once again. What is it you wish of us?"

OOC: Oksie, Ostia can wait.

IC: "I wish to inform you, that after recent negotiations, we have changed our stance with relation to the current war. We are no longer allied with Aust. We are now aiding Frozopia, Kirisubo and Ostia. I tell you this as a courtesy, as it may affect the stance of your own nation.

And I ask you, will it have any immediate effect, or is the war still too distant from your homeland for your Senate to wish to be involved?"

"My friends! Have you not heard the news?"

The professor was most excited.

"The Consilium never ratified the deal with Aust, and after some negotiating by the High Seneschal, a new deal is in front of them..this time with your nation, Frozopia and Ostia. And rumour has it this one is going to pass!

So you're on our side, and can go when you please. I have here the piece of paper from the Port Authorities saying so."

Captain Rokichi bows and reads the latin text.

"domo Arigato sensai" he says to the professor before informing his crew.

"get our other mast fixed fast" he orders "we'll be going home once we get supplies for the journey"

he turns to the professor and asks "when did this happen and what news have we missed?"

"Quite recently.

Some Frozopians arrived a few days ago and were taken to see the High Seneschal. The next thing we hear, we have signed an agreement with them, and by extension with Kirisubo and Ostia; and it is being brought before the Consilium for ratification.

Obviously, if we're on your side, there is no reason to keep you here. If you wish, I believe that an official apology and compensation could be forthcoming.

And between the two of us, I think your presence here, by pure chance, helped to swing things. Many of the merchants you have been dealing with have been pressing for peace with your nation so they might trade.

You will need men to crew your ship before you can leave, but I guess you have contacts in the docks who can get you reliable men."

"Sensai, no apology is needed. you did your duty and you gave us back our lives.

I honestly thought I was going to die at sea but now we live again"

Captain Rokichi adds "we can borrow some latin speaking crew if we travel to Kirisubo with an Incognitian merchant ship.

I'm sure you know theres safety in numbers and as many merchants who want to travel with us can make their introductions in the Nagasaki trading port.

I think this news deserves a celebration. Sake is in order"

He opens a black pottery flask and adds "this is the good stuff I was saving for a special occasion. This certainly qualifies"

he pours two cups and in latin toasts the peace.

The Ostians waited patiently for the other diplomatic discussions to come to a conclusion. The word was terror had allied with Aust then decided to join into the alliance, Lucius was over joyed but for now they were only rumors untill the truth could be un covered.

"To the peace between our nations."

"Perhaps if you invite those merchants you wish to travel with, you could then take your pick of their crew to travel home. They would give you far more, to be the first to trade with your nation."

Captain Rokichi drinks some sake and replies "I'll need to visit some people once the treaty is ratified.

We can run the Hakodate maiden with 15 crew and we'll return home financially better off than we arrived at worst and rich at best.

Nagasaki is good place to trade. theirs Kirisubans, Frozopians and Ostian merchants there already as well as Spanish and Portugese merchants who can open the Han empire up to Incognitian shipping.

Maybe you could return with us and get to see what my homeland is like. As a scholar you'll find plenty to interest you"

"I would love to. I have learnt enough from you of your nation to have a burning desire to know more.

And perhaps I could be useful to you. I know some of the merchants you will be travelling with, their past dealings and reputations. I could give you a more balanced source of information on them than each other."

"Sensai, in that case you can have the merchants cabin for the trip" Captain Rokichi says with a little smile on his face. "I assume that our other guests will be travelling in their own ships.

"I've seen a lot of merchants over the last four weeks but sometimes they only say what they think you want to hear. A trustworthy crew would be an asset on this trip. Your help will be invaluable.

I'll also be able to prepare you for Kirisubo so you know the does and don'ts as well as more of the language"

"Great. I shall have preparations to make in that case. I am glad that I was able to bring you this news. I will return soon."

"it will take a few days to get supplies and your merchants to get organised so you can take time to pack a chest or two" Rokichi replies.

"we're not going anywhere until the other mast is repaired"

he drains his sake and walks the professor to the gang plank as he leaves the ship to prepare for a big adventure.

after this he pops his sword back into his belt sash and goes visiting the local merchants to see whose interested in being the first Incognition merchants in Kirisubo.

The Ostians continue to wait their turn patiently....

"I wish to inform you, that after recent negotiations, we have changed our stance with relation to the current war. We are no longer allied with Aust. We are now aiding Frozopia, Kirisubo and Ostia. I tell you this as a courtesy, as it may affect the stance of your own nation.

And I ask you, will it have any immediate effect, or is the war still too distant from your homeland for your Senate to wish to be involved?"
"Hmm... this is interesting. I thank you for telling us this.

As your ally, if you are attacked we are obligated to assist you. However, if you are not, we will still consider joining in the war, as it could be beneficial. For now, I will send some of my companions back to Caladonn so the Senate can be informed. However, I will remain here as liaison for the moment."

"I thank you. Now, if you will excuse me, I have further negotiations to conduct."

The Caladonnians were politely shown out, as befitted diplomats from a friendly nation, and once they were gone, the Ostians swiftly brought in.

"Welcome, men of Ostia. What brings you to our shores?"

Bump.

at a dockside tavern that the merchants frequent Captain Rokichi discusses the possibility of a trade mission.

The first meeting is hopeful as three merchants and their ships express interest in scouting out this new market. The type of goods are discussed and precious metals, silk and wine are decided upon as the primary trade goods for kirisuban customers and more general items for the other merchants they would encounter.

The merchants are eager as ever for new markets; and quiet encouragement is coming from the government, to foster closer ties with their new allies.

The Kirisubans will be able to take their pick of who accompanies them, though the main contestants have already emerged:

Malone, an established merchant family, no, dynasty; which is heavily based in luxury goods, just what the Kirisubans can offer.

And Bosworth, a rising merchant clan, which has no real specialty, and can thus trade in anything the Kirisubans could want, as well as taking anything they will spare.

Captain Rokichi invites both of them and the Kirisubans will have company on the way home, each family bringing their own trading ship and a lend of some crew until they can reach Hakodate.

An agreement between the three men is signed as Captain Rokichi explains about the foreigner laws which mean that they need to stay in the boundaries of the treaty ports unless they have a pass to travel overland or land elsewhere.

Rokichi shows the merchants a chart with the location of each treaty port (Nagasaki in Kyushu province, Yokohama on the east coast of Honshu island and Hakodate on the south coast of Hokkaido).

A copy is taken of the directions so the pilots of the merchant ships can find the ports if they ever need to travel on their own in the future and a date is set to sail. One week which will allow the merchants to get trade goods, supplies and crews together.

Rokichi returns to the Hakodate maiden a happy man knowing that he'll get a small percentage of all sales on this trip since he's doing the introductions.

He'd never planned to be a merchant but it was where the money was to be found..

As the Kirisuban left, Malone and Bosworth eyed each other warily.

Hot competitors for prestige, as well as profit, in the cut-throat world of commerce, the fact that they taking the same voyage with the same guide would not prevent their competing.

Malone spoke "I suppose you are going yourself, then? I was thinking of sending my son Harold, on the Swallow."

Bosworth, never one for convention, had a minor surprise to spring "I shall be sending my daughter, Rose. She is a most competent trader, and it is time she had an independent venture. And she will take the Bright Star."

<A woman? Command a trading venture? Preposterous! Shows the weakness of the family.> Malone was too polite to say...

The Ostian diplomat stood up and extended his hand,

"Hello, i am Bracus of Ostia i have come to discuss the decision you have made to assist Aust against the alliance...i am not telling you which side to be on..i am just trying to help so no harm comes to your wonderful nation...what ever..the outcome may be of course.."

He bowed slightly, beside him stood a praetorian guard,

"This is my escort Nero..he will await me here if you wish?"

"If you trust your man, I have no need to fear him.

I am afraid your information has been overtaken by events. We are now in alliance with Frozopia, and by extension with yourselves and Kirisubo.

Now, with that in mind, what do you wish to discuss?"

Bracus grinned,

"Yes he is my most trusted, and that is wonderful! we shall now discuss trade and matters of a military nature if you would like?"

Bracus looked at Nero and smiled, who nodded back,

"Meet your new allies my friend.." he said gesturing towards man...

"Ah, trade. My favourite subject. We will of course open our ports to trade with you, and we will offer you lower customs duties than any but our own merchants, assuming you are willing to reciprocate.

As for military matters, we are even now preparing to cooperate with the invasion fleet. In the slightly longer term, we are prepared to exchange technology and tactics, helping each other to become stronger; and look at helping with any other military ventures you are planning."

As the Kirisuban left, Malone and Bosworth eyed each other warily.

Hot competitors for prestige, as well as profit, in the cut-throat world of commerce, the fact that they taking the same voyage with the same guide would not prevent their competing.

Malone spoke "I suppose you are going yourself, then? I was thinking of sending my son Harold, on the Swallow."

Bosworth, never one for convention, had a minor surprise to spring "I shall be sending my daughter, Rose. She is a most competent trader, and it is time she had an independent venture. And she will take the Bright Star."

<A woman? Command a trading venture? Preposterous! Shows the weakness of the family.> Malone was too polite to say...

a week had passed and the final arrangements had been made for the voyage home. All was ready for them sailing on the tide along with the merchant ships traveling with them.

Captain Rokichi had ran up a large Kirisuban flag onto the second mast and now he was ready.

Now all he needed was the Incognitians and the professor to arrive.

The two trading vessels were ready. The Bright Star came first, and came in to the adjacent mooring. The Swallow followed suit on the other side a few minutes later.

Meanwhile, Professor FitzJohn came down to the Hakodate Maiden, dragging a large chest. A short way behind were 16 sailors, usually of the vessels now on either side of the Maiden, but now carrying their kit and coming to help sail the Kirisubans home.

one of the Kirisuban sailors helps the professor get the large chest onto the ship and into the cabin set aside for him.

Captain Rokichi bows to welcome the temporary crew members and says in latin to them "I am Rokichi, Captain and piliot of the Hakodate maiden. We will be returning to Kirisubo stopping first at Nagasaki, then going to Yokohama and finally Hakodate in the north.

All the supplies for the trip are aboard and we will be sailing on the tide.

Any questions?"

At this point the professor steps in.

"Captain? These men are unlikely to speak Latin, though our own tongue bears some resemblance to it."

He then translates to Incognitian for the sailors, some of whom had understood the first time, but most of which had made out only a few words of the Latin.

The men then indicate that they have no questions, and wish only to be allotted duties on board, so that they can depart.

Meanwhile the Bright Star and the Swallow, seeing the Maiden is near to departure, are using springs to point themselves outwards, ready to leave.

after learning their names Rokichi organises the watches and rotas.

soon enough the tide is changing and he asks the professor to tell the sailors to unfurl the main sails and to weigh anchor. the jolly boat tied to the back of the maiden seems secure as well.

some the the sailors are able to locate their bunks only 6 crew needed on deck at this time.

"its time for a great adventure" Rokichi says to Professor FitzJohn and using some of the few words of incognitian he knows orders the crew to set sail.

He runs the signal flags up himself so the other ships know they are leaving and that the merchants and captains are invited to the Hakodate maiden for a meal later on.

The Bright Star smoothly follows the Maiden out to sea. The Swallow takes a slightly different course, then comes scything across on a faster point of sail, scattering fishing vessels and bringing angry shouts from merchant vessels forced to bear away or lose speed to avoid her, in an utterly unnecessary display of arrogant sailing skill.

Both signal acceptance of the invitation to a meal.

Captain Rokichi sends up a new signal; "dinner will be at dusk"

the three ships continue out into the calm sea, the breeze giving the ships a good start.

Rokichi orders the top sails unleased so they can take advantage of the wind as the land vanishes over the horizion.

Able to leave one of his Kirisubans keeping a northernly course he goes to the professors cabin and knocks gently on the sliding door.

The Professor opened the door. "Ah, Captain, how good to see you. It seems we got away smoothly. I've just been stowing my belongings."

Most of the cabin is clear of clutter; there are a few books on a table, and a pen and ink bottle beside one of them; but otherwise all his belongings remain in the chest.

"i'm making sure you've settled in" Rokichi replies "you're my honoured guest and it wouldn't do to have you uncomfortable.

The Captains and Merchants from the Swallow and the Bright Star will be joining us for dinner at dusk.

is there anything you would particularly recommend for the meal?"

"Thank you, I am settling in fine.
As for the meal, large quantities is what I would recommend.
In terms of the actual dish, our nation has a broad palate, and so anything you would usually eat will be quite acceptable.
I haven't met these members of the relevant families yet, so I look forward to it."

The captain opens the door and calls out to his crewman on the tiller in Kirisuban.

"get Koga back on deck and tell him to catch some fresh fish. We're going to have sushi this evening"

He closes the door and adds "it looks like we'll have fresh sushi, fresh and pickled vegetables and large bowls of white rice in that case. a fish based soup should start us off.

its what we usually eat in Kirisubo anyway. We keep cows for milk rather than meat"

"Marvellous."

+++++++++++

As dusk fell, a small boat was lowered by each of the Incognitian vessels and rowed over to the Hakodate Maiden. Harold was first on to the Maiden, looking dashing in the cutting edge of Nescian fashion, with a ruff, slashed sleeves on a doublet and a long straight rapier-like sword.
Rose was wearing a quite fashionable dress, which however had a skirt short enough to bring out gasps in polite society, in that it finished at mid-calf. Harold was either too polite to comment or appreciated the view, as he made no remark on her outfit.

Captain Rokichi wears his best dark blue kimono and black hakama for the occasion and he bows after he helps Harold and Rose on board.

He's also wearing his Hanese straight sword in his belt sash.

"welcome aboard the maiden. i am Pilot-Captain Rokichi" he says "dinner will be served in my cabin and we have green tea and sake as well"

Harold and Rose each bow in acknowledgement.

Rose: "Thank you captain. You have a lovely ship."
Harold: "Indeed, thank you captain. Is your ship named for any particular Maiden?"

Rokichi smiles and replies "my ship isn't named after any Kirisuban maiden in particular but we do have a lot of them on the island"

He guides both merchants to his cabin and provides little folding stools for them so they can sit at the low table and help themselves.

theres fresh sushi, thinly sliced on a long wooden platter, large bowls of rice, a pot of tea and a few flasks of sake heating up.

there is also four bowls of fish soup, a bowl of a spicy dip for the sushi and bowls of lightly boiled local vegetables and pickled vegetables.

a single lantern hanging above the table lights the cabin and the Captain says "you can help yourself to whats on the table. we eat like this most of the time in kirisubo"

The professor arrives and takes a seat ready for dinner.

"Thank you captain, this looks wonderful.

Professor Fitzjohn, how do you do? I believe you know my father, John Bosworth?"

"Ah, yes. He has been good enough to obtain the occasional thing to help me with my studies. How marvellous to meet you Rose."

As they spoke, Rose and Harold sat down and began eating, as they had been told.

Harold spoke to Rokichi "So, what can you tell us of the foreigner ports in your land?"

Captain Rokichi says "theres 3 of them. one in the south, another in the middle of the east coast of Honshu province and my home port in the island province of Hokkaido.

most of the time that's where you'll find the other latin speaking merchants. its the common tongue of trade round here. There'll be Ostians, Frozopians and the occasional Portugese and Spanish trader.

The Portuguese and Spanish are our link with the Han empire so if you make contacts with them you can access the Han markets.

they're a mixing pot of cultures and practically a law unto themselves. some parts of them can be rough but theres usually enough samurai around to keep order"

"Why is it that no traders are allowed into other ports in your country? I know your nation is very different to ours, but here any port would welcome foreign traders for the prosperity they bring."

Rokichi looks at Harold and replies "my people are only just opening up to the outside world after our civil war.

Kirisubans are cautious people and sometimes they're even paranoid about visitors.

I'm sure my government will open up more ports in the future or even grant special licences for our allies to trade directly in other ports but for now this is their policy. I can't change that but in the treaty ports you'll find everyone is in one place.

surely that would make trade easier"

He takes some of his fish soup using a porcelain spoon.

"Oh, I am sorry Captain, I did not mean to seem to judge your people. I do not know your history, or why that decision would have been made.

For now the treaty ports will be more than sufficient to keep us busy."

Rose cut in "Are the treaty ports different in what they mainly trade, or are much the same goods available in them all?"

"a lot of the ports carry the same goods. Silk is probally our most important import and any merchant who can get silk will end up rich. Once you spend a summer here you'll know why kimonos are made from silk. they keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. other cloth like cotton or linen also goes well here.

otherwise what goods you find depends on the merchants you meet. Kirisuban merchants generally trade internally buying and selling rice, tea, millet, sake and silk to sell round the country.

our other allies generally buy goods so they can bring them back home to Ostia, Frozopia and now Incognita.

we can stop off at other ports to get extra supplies on our way there and meet more merchants. Okinawa island is only a few days away if you want to make a detour.

I can act as a go between if you want to meet some people there"

"A lot to consider. Perhaps if we go just to the treaty ports however, as we will not always have you to make our presence elsewhere permissible, and we wish to abide by the laws and customs of your land to avoid causing friction.

Are there any particular taboos in your country we should be aware of?"

Rokichi nods to Rose and says "the main one is how to deal with samurai; the warrior class.

We have a caste system and the warrior class is up at the top of the tree. they have the right to kill anyone whose a lower rank than them who offends them.

when you see them you'll be able to identify them by the two swords they wear. bowing the way I do when they pass will keep them happy. Most of the time they'll be keeping law and order in the ports although masterless samurai (Ronin) can sometimes be a problem. they form the bulk of the pirates and bandits in Kirisubo.

you may have to defend yourself from time to time but thats to be expected anywhere i suppose.

normal samurai get 'san' onto their names and a Daimyo or high ranking military officer will get 'sama'.

San means honourable and Sama means that they're more important. Lords in the empire rule like feudal kings so its a bad idea to annoy them.

merchants foreign or otherwise have a low status in the empire although they have most of the money. its ironic but thats the way the system works. even farmers and craftsmen outrank them"

Having finished his bowl of soup Rokichi moves onto the sushi picking up a few pieces with his chopsticks and putting them on a small wooden plate.

While continuing to eat with every sign of enjoyment, the two nodded.

Rose commented,
"We have much the same experience everywhere. Our own land is about the only one where traders have equal respect to fighters. Everywhere we trade we have to bow at the right times, and to the right people."

Rokichi shrugs his shoulders and says "i suppose its the same anywhere you go. a while ago i went to the Kurile islands with a merchant and his interpreter. thats a Frozopian colony north of Hokkaido and its going to be a major trading post some day. they have a strong warrior class as well as feudal system"

he eats some of the sushi with his chop sticks before eating some rice.

"does anyone want any tea?" he asks

"That is the strange thing to my mind," Rose commented, "That in our nation the warrior class is weak, and has no elevated station over traders; and yet in every other, the soldiers appear to run things. Surely we can't be the only nation that has decided soldiers are to defend you from threats, and traders are the ones who build your strength?"

As they tried the sushi, a quiet chorus arose wanting to try 'tea'.

"I shall wish to visit these Kuriles" Harold said "We would like to trade with the Frozopians, though possibly not on this trip. Will you be able to direct us?"

Captain Rokichi pours the green tea and says "most of our tea comes from the Han empire but we grow some off our own.

Our warrior class are there to defend the nation and to keep law and order. Not so long ago Kirisuban armies were fighting each other so peace is always better for business.

We also have the imperial navy whose main job is to deal with pirates and watch out for hostile ships.

in our nation farmers and artisans make things and merchants move them round the country. Our merchants don't have power but they have a small level of influence in local matters.

Yokohama opened up as a treaty port because they wanted an inbetween port to trade in"

Turning to Rose and Harold he says "i can guide you both there once I get new crew at Hakodate. the frozopians are like most merchants and certainly drive a hard bargain but Rose you may have an advantage in any port we land in. sometimes it takes a womans intelligence to get a better deal or price"

Rose blushes gently "When they aren't looking down on you for being a woman, that is.
Peace is certainly good for business. Not least because war sends insurance premiums sky high. Do you have insurance in your country?"
She drinks
"I think we shall have to have some of this tea. Would our nation be suitable to grow it?"

Rokichi shakes his head and says "i've never heard of insurance before. you'll have to enlighten me on how it works.

Tea needs slightly warmer weather than normal crops to grow but if you have warmer parts of Incognitia it should grow there assuming you can get some tea plants"

He drinks some of his tea and adds "Kirisuban men are generally sexist but only a fool would underestimate a woman. most of our latin speaking interpreters are ladies of the samurai families and they're just as able to defend their honour as any man can"

"Insurance has been the saving of many a merchant trader.

Say you are going on a voyage. If you lose your vessel, and your cargo, as an independent merchant, you are ruined.
So instead, you go to an 'insurer'. And he calculates the chance that your ship will sink, or be taken by pirates, and how much your ship and cargo are worth.
You pay him a sum of money based on that calculation, and if you do lose your ship, he will pay you the value of it; so instead of being ruined, you have only lost the money you paid him."

"We have areas that are very warm; we should be able to grow tea. We have a need for a drink to be taken during the day, that is not alcoholic, so that you can continue working after drinking it. And on brief experience I like it. I could see many others enjoying it.
And the whole world thinks less of women than of men. It means you have to excel, so that they can hate you but they have to respect you."

Rokichi eats some more rice as he listens to how insurance works.

"Kirisuban merchants may well be interested in that idea. Given the amount of ships that sink during the typhoon season alone you would have takers if the service was available" he says.

"a typhoon brought the maiden to your waters. they're great storms and most ships don't survive them. We were unlucky and we ran into two off them"

He thinks and says "tea can be drunk all day. Your ships could well be the first ones to bring it to Incognitia as well"

"There are only a few problems with insurance. One is that you have to have a lot of money to start out with, otherwise the first wreck of a vessel you've insured will ruin you. Another is that you have to keep a very sharp eye for fraud. Men have tried before, renaming a vessel and claiming it sank, to keep the ship and take the money. Finally, you need a very shrewd idea not only of what any ship and cargo is worth, but also what the chance of her sinking is.

Once you have surmounted those hurdles, it is but one extra cost, like port duties and customs, only if disaster strikes it saves you from losing your livelihood along with your ship.

If you survived two typhoons you are incredibly lucky to be alive, though your own skill must have played a part."

Rokichi thinks back and replies "we were unlucky to be caught at sea when the storm brewed up but i'm sure it was the Kami that kept us safe while it was raging. I had an idea if we kept going due south we would hit land eventually and we did. I had heard rumours of land to the south of Chosen and the tales turned out to be true.

even so only 3 of my crew survived. when i get to Nagasaki i'll need to visit a temple to give them an offering"

"I am glad that is was we who found you. There are plenty of pirates and bandits operating to the North of here, but the south of China. If we open up significant trade with you somethign shall have to be done about that."

"Another question" by now Rose seemed to be doing all the talking for the Incognitians "What religion do your people follow? And what is the status of other religions in your lands?"

"most Kirisubans follow Shinto, some are Christians and the rest are Buddists" Rokichi replies.

"people can follow what faith they want but Shinto is the official religion and the Buddists have been around for a long long time.

Most Christians belong to the warrior caste and there's several powerful Christian lords. My own daimyo, Lord General Nakamura is one of them"

"So the Shogun does not require his people to be of one faith, and our being Christian in Kirisubo will not cause a problem?
We are aware that this is the case in many nations, that only one religion is tolerated."

"it won't be a problem" Rokichi replies "As long as a Kirisuban is loyal, obeys the laws and pays their taxes religion isn't a problem. As you are a visitor and an ally it'll still won't be a problem.

Nagasaki does have a Christian temple as well, as does Yokohama and Hakodate. I also think that Christian daimyo's build them in the districts where they rule"

"That is good. We become practiced at concealing our religious observances when abroad. It is good to go somewhere that is unnecessary.
It shows admirable sense, and confidence in the loyalty of their people, on the part of your rulers."

"practising a chosen religion is aways a good idea" Rokichi replies "without something to believe how can you have any hope"

he fnishes his cup of tea and offers a refill to anyone who wants it.

"apart from Christianity what other religions are in Incognitia?"

"Well, most people are Christians, though many of the peasants still hold to old pagan practices, melded with Christian ones.

We have a significant minority of Jews, especially in cities and major ports, a few roving Muslims from a long way to the West; and a few groups of Buddhists as well.

All are tolerated as long as they do not cause conflict; but attempts to actively convert are discouraged by the authorities. They tend to lead to trouble."

"we appear to have much in common then. some Christian priests serve as translators for Christian lords but they don't actively try and convert.

They know it would disturb the harmony of the nation if they did"

"Are the Christians in your country Catholic?
We in Incognitia are not, and have never been Catholics, not least because of our sheer distance from Europe, but we are aware they demand obedience from all Christians everywhere.
We have heard of a legend, prevalent in Europe, of a Christian nation beyond India, ruled by "Prester John", and believe it to be a distorted reference to ourselves. However, we do not wish to deal with the Catholics, lest they demand our allegiance to the Pope."

OOC: Don't want to say much more about that, cos I don't know if Ostia is Christian, and they of course control Rome...

"Kirisuban Christians are Catholics because the Society of Jesus were the first missionarys here. However a Kirisubans ultimate loyalty to their Emperor will outrank any authority a Catholic priest may have to give them orders. Under our caste system a priest is only ranked slightly higher than a merchant so they could never give orders to their flock without going through the daimyo first.

We believe that our Emperor is a living god and while it may sound odd our Catholics can live with that. Loyalty and duty are all important to us.

I'm sure that given time churches could be built by Incognitians in our treaty ports so your people can worship their way"

"Building a church will be unnecessary unless we build a sizeable community. We do not have a problem with Catholic worship, or Catholic doctrine even, so we will be able to join their services, and make use of their priests.

Though our culture puts less emphasis on duty, we also see loyalty as of prime importance. Loyalty to Incognitia; loyalty to your lord, if you have one; loyalty to your family. These things matter. Matters are carefully managed so that loyalty to your God does not conflict with loyalty to Incognitia, so that our people are not left feeling split loyalties. Even if they all chose Incognitia first, they would be confused and unhappy due to the difference between the two."

as the discussion continues the Maiden's cook knocks the door and clears away the remains of dinner returning with a flask of sake and a platter of fresh fruit for dessert.

"I thought you might like some dessert to finish of the meal as well as keeping the scurvy at bay" Captain Rokichi says.

He lifts the small pottery flask and smiles knowing its the right temperature.

"the sake is ready as well"

bumped

"Thank you Captain. Scurvy is always a concern on long voyages. I don't suppose you have come across anything that holds its goodness for a long time on voyages, such that you can hold scurvy at bay without needing to restock with fresh produce?"

Captain Rokichi shrugs his shoulders and says "we haven't solved that problem either. you can salt fish and meat but we can't keep fruit and vegetables fresh.

The best we've managed is to preserve raw vegetables in vinegar but its not ideal. thats why we'll need regular supply stops once we leave Nagasaki to get water and fresh fruit"

he picks up a slice of an apple with his chopsticks and gently chews it.

"Another problem we share then. There seem to be many of them."

Rokichi nods and says "since we share problems theres a good chance of being able to solve them together. At least rice and ships biscuits can't go bad on us if they're properly stored.

Anyone want sake?"

"I like that way of thinking of it; that because we share problems we can solve them together.

And yes, please, I would like some sake."

Murmurs of approval from Harold and the professor at the mention of sake.

the Kirisuban captain pours the sake for everyone including the professor into small cups.

"sake can be obtained at most Kirisuban ports and theres differing strengths of it" he adds

The Incognitians await his lead in how to drink this strong looking stuff.

"This may be another thing we can trade. I assume it travels well."

Rokichi sips at his cup and says "it travels very well. It won't go off as long as its sealed up in flasks and a flask can be resealed as well as long as you have the cork"

"Wonderful. I hate goods that go off before they can be sold. And it is not unpalatable. We shall have to see if we can make it the fashion in Nescia."

"we can but try" Captain Rokichi replies "its better served warm like it is now but i've had to drink it cold on occasion and its still palatable even then"

As the meal continues Koga notices the signs of a typhoon brewing up.

He draws it to the attention of Usagi, the ships carpenter and he knocks on the door telling the Captain.

"things may get a bit rough on this trip" he says "my lookout thinks we're going to run into a typhoon"

"We'd better get back to our ships. We would just be in the way here, and I certainly will be happier in charge of my own vessel.
Thank you for the meal captain, it has been lovely, and the conversation fascinating.
After your recent experience, do you have any tips for dealing with typhoons, or did you find it best to trust to your instincts?"

Lookouts on the Swallow and the Bright Star had also spotted a coming storm, and boats were already on their way to pick up Harold and Rose.

"we just kept minimum sails while we faced them" Rokichi replies "and made sure everyone had a lifeline tied to them while they were on deck.

All we can do now is ride this out"

he bows and gives his farewells and even he can see the approaching storm.

Rose bows in imitation, then swiftly hugs Rokichi before moving away and into her boat, without looking back. Harold restricts himself to a bow, then he vaults over the side and into his boat; and can be heard cursing as he hurts his foot on something. Their vessels are already largely prepared, with sails having been swiftly furled; they are turned to face the swell; and the boats are making all speed back to their mother vessels.

Once aboard the Bright Star, Rose ensures everyone has a lifeline ready, then makes all but a few men go below deck, and double-check everything is safely stowed. She then takes the wheel, and has the remaining men tie in, ready to help her fight the storm for the helm.

Harold follows a very similar procedure, save only that on his vessel it is a triple check that everything is stowed correctly.

Rokichi settles for a single main sail and only 4 men on deck using lifelines. He takes the tiller himself using a long lifeline while the rest of the crew continue to rest.

the wind picks ups and the waves look bigger.

using the stars he keeps his northernly course hoping that this storm won't be as bad as the ones he faced getting to Incognita.

The Bright Star follows the Maiden's lead, in facing north. Rose is hoping they won't be too far away from her once the storm is over.

Harold, as ever, takes his own course, and is heading slightly west of north.

The storm is almost upon them now, and the sky grows dark.

Before long the storm hits and the waves start reaching the sides of the Maiden.

"prepare to bail" he orders and crewmen fetched buckets except for the sailor keeping watch at the prow of the ship.

According the the charts he had copied there were no shoals or reefs to worry about. it was deep water all the way north.

Waves splashed over the side of the Maiden and most of the seawater was handled by the small drainage holes in the hull.

Judging the position of the moon he estimated it would be about 5-7 hours until dawn. It would be a long night although they were still making progress.

The bow of the Bright Star digs into the waves. The water comes sloshing over the bow, and swiftly leaves again by way of the transom, washing past the feet of those on deck on the way there.
The hatch remains sealed, and no water has yet made its way belowdecks.
Those on deck are already drenched.

whale oil lanterns are lit on the prow and bow of the Maiden so they can be seen.

a few hours later the storm is still continuing and Koga relieves his Captain and Rokichi sends up fresh crew to relieve the wet and tired sailors on deck.

He inspects the cargo they have left and finds its still secure and dry. Satisfied he heads to his cabin for some rest giving orders that he be wakened if the storm worsens.

Thus far the Bright Star is holding up well. They've lost sight of the other two ships, and Rose is exhausted, but otherwise they're okay.
Rose heads belowdecks, to crash in her cabin, but she'll be up again soon, no matter what. She sends up a few men to replace the deck crew.
Thus far, knocking on wood, they've been okay. But things might get worse.

a few hours later it does get worse.

the waves are getting larger and crashing over deck more frequently and Rokichi is wakened.

He puts on a dry kimono and heads back on deck.

Heavy rain is also falling and the second crew change of the night takes place.

he's concerned when he can't see the Bright Star and decides its time to use some of his fire arrows to attract their attention.

Taking the Kirisuban long bow he shoots it himself sending 3 flaming arrows up into the night sky and hoping that will guide Rose back.

Rose is back on deck, still struggling with the wheel. The swell is heavier, but Bright Star can handle it.

Then one of the crewmen points - a bright spark flying into the heavens, off to larboard. Then another two, in quick succession, by which time they are clearly a signal from Rokichi.

Rose tries steering over that way, but as soon as she begins turning the waves hit Bright Star at the wrong angle, and so she has to return to her original course.

eventually the sun rises and peeks through the murky sky.

Rokichi changes the crew again and although the sea is still stormy its better that is was before. the heavy rain has stopped and he can see Bright Star.

Able to get partial sun shot he determines that he kept his planned course but not sure how far he sailed.

He adjusts his course to North North West until he is able to sight land again.

As the storm clears, Rose is once again on deck.

The Hakodate Maiden was, thankfully, within sight. She had kept heading in the direction from which the fire arrows had flown, whenever the swell eased enough to permit it, and it seemed to have worked.

Their heading is slightly West of North. However, no-one knew how far they had been swept off course, and that would only become clear at midday, if the sun was visible, or when night fell. Meanwhile there were repairs to be made on board, and the crew were busy.

The Swallow was nowhere to be seen; she could be miles away.

Captain Rokichi could see the Bright Star but the Swallow was nowhere to be seen.

he knew they had been taking a different course but was still concerned. Their pilot had a copy of his course as had the Bright Star but navigation at sea wasn't an exact science and he had a good idea of where he was going.

He consulted the chart of the pacific as the kirisubans knew it. the nearest land to the north was the Philipine islands. Again it was fairly unknown territory but their had been a Kirisuban supply base there before he left Nagasaki.

He runs up signal flags to Bright Star detailing the new course to land and asking if they had seen the swallow.

The reply was swift

"We shall follow your lead to these islands. We have seen no sign of the Swallow."

The wind picks up, all the Maidens sails are unfurled and the two ships are able to pick up some speed.

Rokichi sends back an acknowledgement of the message and returns to his cabin as he ponders the new course.

the full crew is out on deck and the sun is trying to break through the clouds. already it was a better day.

As they speed in the direction of these islands, Rose remembers a rumour that had been going around, that the fleet had taken one of them from a foreign enemy (probably the Kirisubans, now she thought about it) and sent a fair-sized garrison force.

She signalled the Maiden, advising Rokichi of this. An Incognitian naval base would be able to offer them a lot; especially the chance of news of the Swallow.

Koga reads the signal flags and tell his Captain the message.

"tell the Bright Star I'm coming over in that case" Rokichi says. "prepare our small boat and signal that i'm on my way"

the rowing boat is lowered and one of the Incognitian crewmen rows Rokichi to Roses ship.

"Captain! We heard this only as a rumour, but a sizeable naval force, along with a lot of soldiers, left harbour some time ago, looking as though they were settling in for some time, but not as though planning for a siege. It was thought that the fleet had taken an island from your people, and was going to build a supply base and garrison it.
However, news will surely have reached them by now that we are your friends, so they will not attack your ship.
I was thinking that they will have stores, and victuals aplenty; and if Swallow has passed this way, they might have news of her."

"we had a small base on the second island as far as a remember" Rokichi replies once he's on board "and thats where we're heading to whoever owns it now. If anyone knows about the Swallow they will but I hope they're still safe"

Comparing his chart and Roses chart they had the island in the same place.

"I'm estimating on our current course and given good winds that we'll hit the Philipines in a few days and then we can sail up the east coast until we reach the base.

Then we can find out whats happening with the war as well."

"That is a good plan.
I hope the war goes well; I pray every day for our soldiers, in hope that they can bring a swift end to this conflict, that as few people as possible must suffer."

"I'm hoping the same" Rokichi replies and rolls up his chart.

Looking at the Incognitian standard fluttering in the wind he adds "the wind is good and should keep us on time"

ooc: lets time slide this a couple of days and pick up again the ships reaching the east coast of the Philipines

Rose was in her cabin when the cry went up "Land Ho!"

Rushing on deck, she could soon see that they had reached the islands; which one it was impossible to tell just yet, but they would soon be able to match it with their charts, and work out where they were.

Rokichi also got the call and checked his chart against the coastline he seen.

He runs up the signals flags and reports 'keep sailing north for two days and its the second large island you see"

"Agreed"
++++++++++++
However, before they reach the island they are heading for, the familiar shape of a naval frigate appears.

Some swift signalling and following of instructions later, they are escorted into a bustling, small frontier port, brought in to dock, and taken to see the local commander, a Commodore Pemberton.
"I am sorry to hear you lost contact with your companions during the storm. If we spot a vessel matching that description we shall make contact with them. Meanwhile, if you wish I can send a ship to escort you part of the way to Kirisubo, as a patrol vessel will be going that way soon, and you may as well sail with it."

* * * * * *
Meanwhile, some way north, Harold and the Swallow had been sailing steadily for Kirisubo ever since they came out of the storm. He was following Rokichi's instructions, and fully intended to be on the way home by the time Rose arrived in Kirisubo.

Captain Rokichi agrees to the plan and asks Commodore Pemberton what he knows about the state of the war so far.

already he's worked out his next course, a NNE route so he can avoid the coastal waters of the Han Empire.

their large and silent neighbour made him uneasy and he knew that Nagasaki, their first stop wasn't that far away from Han waters.

He shows Rose and the Commodore this course on his chart as the ships top up their water and food supplies.

"Well, the last I heard, the invasion fleet had reached Aust and begun landing troops. No major fighting yet, surprisingly, and no sign of the Austian Navy. We expect another messenger-ship soon."

"Since you are agreeable, the frigate Barker will accompany you northwards for a while. She is big enough to outfight any pirates foolhardy enough to take her on, and fast enough to outrun anything capable of sinking her. You will be in safe hands with her."

"You can leave whenever you are ready. Barker is ready to sail."

"we can go once our supplies are on board" Captain Rokichi replies looking over at Rose.

"we have a good strong breeze pushing us north so we might as well use it to make up the time we lost due to the typhoon"

"My men will assist you. Return to your ships, make your preparations, and fly the Blue Peter to let Barker know when you wish to leave.
Unless you have any further questions?"

"No sir, and thank you." answered Rose.

Captain Rokichi returns to the Maiden and raises the blue peter flag to show he is ready to depart.

the crew raises the anchor and they are ready.

With the Kirisubans ready, the Barker leads the way out into the open sea. Course is set for Kirisubo. Unwittingly, they are about a day's sail behind Harold, on a slightly different course.

The course is followed and the breeze picks up even more as they cross the open sea.

The ships speed on..

Harold is still speeding on aboard the Swallow. It will not be long before he reaches what could reasonably be thought of as Kirisuban waters.

He is blissfully unaware of the ships behind him, and they are equally unaware of him; though the men of the Bright Star wonder what has befallen their counterparts on the Swallow.

Still 6 days from Kirisuban waters the Maiden, the Bright Star and the Barker sail on.

Rokichi uses the good conditions to let the crew get some rest and a skeleton crew looks after the ship.

He gets some sleep himself knowing he'll be woken if he's needed.

OOC: Waiting on Oda's 'blockade' now. All we can say for Rose and Rokichi is 'they sailes a bit more'.

The ships despatched to Angermanland had returned at last. They swept into Nescia's Royal Dockyard, with stores requisitions flying left and right.
The main Naval stores had been nearly emptied of crossbows and armour, the armour loading on to the ships, a merchant vessel hired for the crossbows.

Meanwhile discussions went on between Pi, the Angermanland StratCom, and certain scholars from Nescia University; Angermanland scholars soon joined them, speaking a common language of excited visions of the future.
Pi left, apparently satisfied, while the scholars remained. Craftsmen were brought in, and various plans were drawn up.
Gifts were distributed amongst the important organisations of the city, making the name Angermanland associated with generosity and goodwill, where before they had had no reputation; this would help them when their people next visited.
The fleet sailed again, this time for Aust.

The Fiery Drake, leading flagship of the small group of three Emperor ships and two sloops swept through the waters of the South Han Sea. They had orders to watch and patrol the sea lanes, wary of enemy craft that may be heading north to discover the invasion. As yet, the Imperial Admiralty had succedded, small craft of merchants were captured and taken to Canton for holding.

A watchman looked around the edge of the horizon and tried squinting when the sun got in them. It was a tough job, watching for small specks of what could be either a ship or a piece of drift wood. The watchman thanked the Gods that the Imperial School of Engineers had provided them with the new 'telescopes'.

A small shadow in the distance suddenly caught the man's eye. "Areh?" What? He picked up his telescope and put it to his eye. The image shown jumped up as if it was mere feet in front of him. It was a group of ships. The man checked his bearings. These ships weren't part of the blockade. They were heading north.

"Ahoy! Ships off the port side! Several thousand yards!" he yalled down the mast. The other two watchmen below him relayed the order until it finally got to the captain.

The captain, wearing his silk robes and curved falcion sword, grinned. "Our first catch of the day." He turned to the slave master. "Draw! Oars!" The Emperor ships had four large decks. The bottom two were equipt with two rows of thirty oars each, to add extra speed for there huge ships.

With a series of yells the oars were launched and a drum began, sounding the speed. The other ships, two other Emperor-class ships and two smaller and faster sloops, did likewise.

"We'll approach them with the wind at our back," the captain said to himself. He motioned to the helm and designated the new coarse.

"Master of Arms!?" he yelled. A man, dressed all in black silked and bearing two swords at his waist appeared. He bowed.

"Yes captain?"

"Prepare your troops, we've a battle on our hands."

"With pleasure captain." The man turned and with catlike smoothness swept off the courter deck. Each Emperor ship had 400 soldiers aboard. Most were either siege-warfare experts or archers.

"How long until we reach them?" asked the First Mate.

"Should be within a half hour."

OOC: Have one more merchantman half a days sail north of the group. Don't know if you want to deal with him as well?

IC: The vessels sailed north peacefully, tacking now and then. They were on a beat to the North-East; when the watchman on the Barker spotted vessels coming South at speed. He called down to the Officer of the Watch, who sent a message to the Captain, while training his telescope on the ships.

They were clearly warships. They were big. There were several of them. And they were approaching at speed.

So he did what any sensible man would do; he ordered the decks cleared for action; and waited for the Captain to arrive. Just to pass the time, he signalled the Maiden and the Bright Star.

When the Captain arrived, he identified the vessels as Hanese; while their disposition was unknown, they were enigmatic and potentially hostile.
He therefore signalled the Maiden and the Bright Star to turn back, and run south with the wind at their backs; if they heard cannon fire, they were not to turn back before the Philippines, whereas if after half an hour they had not heard cannon, they were to heave to and await his rejoining them.
Bright Star immediately complied (OOC: Maiden is a Kirisuban vessel, so really I need him to shift them).

Captain Rokichi knew he was in trouble when he seen the Hanese ship which dwarfed his Lorcha.

He took the tiller himself and reversed course following the bright star.

OOC: Bump.

IC: The Barker was now prepared, her decks clear for action, her gunports open. She would await the arrival of the Han vessels to ask their intentions.

Bright Star was making all speed southwards.

OOC: Bumpety bump blockade BUMP.

IC: The master, swiftly christened "Zephyr" as the Angerman name was unpronouncable to Incognitians, had travelled as far as Nescia.
Resisting the temptation to dismantle it so they could start building them, Incognitian shipwrights merely took note of it's design, measured everything, and then handed Zephyr back to the Navy. With a picked crew, she was sent North, following the Fleet, in an attempt to gather news of the situation with regards to the Austian fleet. She sailed swifter than any other ship; save her sisters, retained by Angermanland.

The Zephyr had returned. She had briefly stopped along the way, in the Philippine base christened, with true imagination, Fort North. There she had passed on her news; the Commodore was considering what he had heard, and it was possible that a message would soon arrive announcing what action he had taken.
Zephyr's next action had been to stop at the Northernmost outpost of the semaphore, somewhat north and east of MenZerte. Thus, despite being the fastest ship in the water, her news preceded her into Nescia.
The High Seneschal was pacing across the floor of his Council Room. The generals and admirals had been gathered, along with the Cabinet, to discuss what action should be taken.
It had already been decided that Aust was not acting alone, and thus that, most likely, the Han were involved.
"General Fletcher! The men earmarked for Aust - what are they, 30,000 - as soon as you have transports and escorts they sail for Kirisubo."
"Yes sir, 30,000, they are ready, as are their transports. They can sail within the week."
"Admiral O'Neill! Whatever forces you have, are to go with that army. Are any marines spare? If so they go also. But primarily, all the line ships you have left, and any frigates that can be spared, go north."
"Yes sir. That means maybe 40 ships of the line, as many frigates, with full complements of marines. We also have the Philippine force."
"If Pemberton has any initiative he'll be gone already! Now, General Nikei, what other troops will we have, and when?"
"Sir, that depends on what we want to send to Aust. We have been gathering forces to go to Aust for some time now; another ten brigades, or 30,000 men, are almost ready, and can go within the month. Others will take longer."
"Forget Aust for now. Our armies there should be sufficient. If not, they shall just have to hold on."
"Yes, sir"
The meeting was to continue for some time, but the vital business was done.
_____________________________________________________________
The High Seneschal was right. Pemberton had initiative, and surmising that time would be of the essence, he had gathered his troops and sailed. A dozen ships of the line, as many frigates, and transports carrying 5,000 Incognitian marines, they were heading for Kirisubo; specifically for the port known as Osaka, marked on the charts they had had from Rokichi.

By the time the Zephyr arrived in Nescia, other decisions had been taken; notably relating to the notification of allies.
Word would be sent to Kilani, the armies in Aust, Angermanland, Caladonn and Ostia. As Ostia was the most distant, Zephyr, having only just arrived, was immediately being loaded up for departure in that direction.
Kilani, the Austian invasion force and Angermanland had messages to the relevant authorities on the next ships going in that direction. Several sloops were sent to the nearest Caladonnian colonies.
The Incognitian response would be first. The messengers were to make sure that it would not come alone.

ooc: i assume this will result in another set of stuff in my thread? heh. i'll try not to draw it out as long as last time. expect a larger force, if you can transport it, than was sent to Aust, but also expect to wait longer [game time] to get it.

OOC: Apologies for the mammoth post, but this stuff gives a feel for how my war effort is run.

IC:
The ‘Change was all astir. As you might expect, perhaps, for that combination of bancas and coffee-shops making up the beating heart of Nescia’s economy; it was regularly set astir by the arrival of trading ventures, news of events around the country and the world, and other exciting happenings.
This stir was due to the return of a man long absent from the ‘Change, but no less recognisable for it. John Baracka was a man of strong character, and no little sense of theatre. He had burst into the ‘Change; he now stood on a table and addressed the crowd of traders, merchants, investors and speculators.
“Gentlemen! I have not been here of late; I see you are up to your usual wickedness here.” This drew a laugh from the crowd.
“I am here to make you gents an offer. The only way you can be patriotic and make money. You know of course that I speak of government bonds to pay for the present war over the next year.”
“How many, and what rate?” came from the crowd.
“Why, the usual rate gentlemen. 4 per hundred per year. And an initial sale of 5 millions, followed by another 5, with more afterwards dependent on events in the conflict beyond our immediate foresight.”
At this he descended from his impromptu stage. Most returned to their normal business; however a steady stream were going to buy bonds. By the end of that day 2 million Nescia had been raised; the rate then slowed somewhat, but the first batch were gone within the week.

In the Consilium, CM’s (Consiliar Member) were debating the money to be given to the army and navy for the coming fiscal year. The request from the High Seneschal, supported by the generals and admirals, was for enough to support 100,000 soldiers on deployment with a substantial siege train; and for enough to support active fighting by most of the fleet, most of the year, along with an expansion of the fleet by some 20 ships of the line, along with additional frigates. Authorisation for further government borrowing as necessary was also being sought.
“The fleet is all the protection we need! This army is unnecessary! We have at present 40,000 soldiers overseas! What cause is there for all these additional troops, if not domestic tyranny?” This CM shall remain nameless; he spoke, however, for the fears of many.
To that end, the motion was divided; a vote taken on the naval proposals and passed without further bother, before returning to debating the army.
Two days later _____________________
“The Han have attacked our ally. Many more soldiers than those we have sent will be required to prosecute that war successfully and uphold our honour amongst nations. If this House is not satisfied that the need is great enough, let this House be required to assent to the maintenance of these soldiers in six months if they have not been gainfully employed for the purpose they were raised.”
The motion passed, after the longest debate in Consiliar history. An extra 100,000 men would be gathered to fight the ongoing wars.

In the naval dockyard at MenZerte could be found the plans for the new warships.
“So in essence, by comparing what we have seen of Caladonnian and Angerman ships with our own, we believe we have understood some of the principles under which a ship moves through the water. So we have smoother hull lines, giving sailing closer to the wind. The keel is somewhat more pronounced giving the ships a greater draught, but having a stabilising influence.
The lowest gun-ports are higher than in older ships, allowing them to be used even in rough seas.
There are more fore-and-aft rigged sails, namely the stunsails and jib, giving greater speed and better handling.
And the guns will be the latest, as ever lighter and tougher than those in the last build of ships.
In summary these ships will be faster, more manoeuvrable and packing as great a punch as their older sisters. We hope to incorporate lessons from the Caladonnians in the later builds of this class, and any future designs.
Meanwhile for frigates we have not been idle; some of our frigates are venerable, lacking in both speed and firepower. New frigates will have a fully enclosed gun-deck, as our newer ones do already; they will take in more of the lessons of speed and manoeuvrability learnt from our Angerman allies. Their role will be the same as it is at present; however they will be faster and more powerful, for only a slightly raised cost.”

“That is most impressive, Master Shipwright. I hear we have been voted the money for 20 new line ships, which if I understand you correctly will come under the 2nd Rate. How long will that take? With frigates, we have funds for ten of the new design, which if they perform as you promise will then be adopted as the design for all those ordered but not yet built, and any future orders.”
“We will be building four here, two in each of the other four Dockyards, and contracting the remaining eight to private yards, mostly here. The first will be with you in a year; the last in eighteen months.”
“Excellent. Ah yes, in addition, we are desirous of more of these special ships – what did you call them?”
“Bomb ketches, sir.”
“Yes, apparently they scared the daylights out of the Austians, and sank a couple of line ships. I never thought it possible, but they have proved most effective. And it looks as though we may be doing some more shore bombardment in future. Probably another ten initially, but my assistant will arrange that with you at a later date.”

"Sir!"
"Can't it wait? These men are just telling me about their idea for a...'balloon' I think they called it. It could have uses, especially with the fleet."
"News from the West sir. One of the India Company expeditions."
"Very well. I thank you Messrs Wright, I shall be in touch with you shortly; now duty calls."
The two men left the High Seneschal.
"What news?"
"The party following the North Coast of Africa reached a fortified port-city. One vessel went to investigate, the Reuter, and she was burned by the defences. No warning was given.
The remaining two split; one went straight to Ostia, the other returned here.
Oh yes, they are fairly sure there was an Ostian galley approaching the city also."
"Do we know what nation this is? Their strength, their other territories?"
"No sir."
"Right, well, no matter. I am sure the Ostians will assist. Put a message to Chargone on the next diplomatic bag to Angermanland, I believe he is interested in African territory. We cannot let unprovoked assault - on a trading ship, of all things - stand. The fleet will have to be informed, so that part can return from Kirisubo."

The actions commanded were duly carried out.
A ship was on its way to Angermanland with a cargo of crossbows; the captain was handled a sealed package to go to Angerwraith.
A messenger sloop was due to leave before long for Kirisubo; the message was telegraphed to the port it was due to depart from, and given by the telegraphers to the ship's captain.
And in Menzerte a party of warships was being gathered to send to Ostia, as harbingers of the fleet, and a show of good faith, that Incognitia would actively assist.

The process of raising new regiments seemed to have become a permanent one in Incognitian society.

Recruiting parties visited towns and villages across Incognitia, a few men following from here, a few more men from there. Once recruited, they gathered in the training camps near major cities, where they were joined by veterans, who made up the NCOs and some of the officers.

Here they were issued with armour and weapons, and spent their time training hard, in the use of the pike or musket and sword; in tactical movement; in campcraft; in all the necessities of war.

Each party spent three months training, the last month of which was "exercises", where they deployed in company size groups and fought mock war against other such groups.

Each month, ten thousand more men were ready; this would continue until the wars ongoing eased off, or the debt burden on the state became too heavy.

a Master arived in the main port of Incognitia, bringing with it a message directly from Prince Chargone, writen in his own hand in Angerman script, and then again in Latin by one of his translators. it read thus:

'within a year aproximatly 9000 men of all ranks, as well as their gear and many of the seige weapons which you have already seen in battle in both Aust and Kririsubo shall be ready to depart for this Africa. shipyard production is such that we shall be able to escort them ourselves, but I would like to take this opertunity to request the use of your transport ships once again. the movement of so many men requires many more than we have. it is also hoped that, by the time of depature one year hence, we shall have a new class of ship ready to aid the fleets.

let our enemys burn on the water and fear the skys!'

the message was then signed and stamped with the Prince's seal.

The messenger was given, before he departed, a message from the High Seneschal.
"We shall send you as many transports as you require. Your assistance will be most gratefully recieved. And our enemies burning on the water would be a wonderfully poetic form of justice."