1901

War is just around the corner. World leaders arrive early to access the situation, to plot, and to plan. Some are interested in peace, others are interested in conquest. Will there be war?

England's twin rulers strategize in the anteroom. Are they looking to carve up the continent? Will they focus on the seas or is their sights on the land?

The Tsar of Russia stares intensely at the battlefield, while the Queen of Italy and the President of France stare on. Will these three work together, or be at each other's throats? Or both?

One of the Emperor's of Austria-Hungary is clearly preparing orders that some other power is against.

SPRING 1901: The MAP

England shifts her navies to the North. France moves towards German borders while Italy moves towards France. Austria-Hungary scrambles to the Balkans to head off Turkish and Russian advancements. No conflicts, but that doesn't alleviate fear of bloodshed.

SUMMER NEGOTIATIONS:

Italy looks skeptically as the Tsar soaks in the moves of the Spring.

Is France dictating terms to Italy or just pointing out possibilities of success? Only time will tell.

England seems to be keeping to themselves, and very happy with their plans to expand the British Empire.

Italy plots move after move with the watchful eye of Russia. Is this a possible alliance? So many questions . . .

Italy continues to show possible movements to France, with Austria-Hungary's proxy (the Minister-President?  A Duke? is he from Austria or Hungary?). It looks serious.

FALL & WINTER 1901 MAP


The Balkans are carved up. Austria-Hungary expands beyond the Balkans, reaching out for Greece with the help of France, who moves their forces into A-H home territory. Russia also moves toward Germany, who clash over Sweden. France crosses Spain to capture Portugal and slips across the Belgian border. England solidifies her foothold into Norway.

Most nations build. Some remain defensive, others show aggressive actions beyond mere sabre rattling. There are no clear alliances or rivalries but one thing is clear, there will be blood.