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Message from England to Austria
Edna,
>It would be nice to get some information about the situation in the west.
Yes, please! If you get such information, I beg you to relay it to me.
A little more seriously now. It is entirely possible that each of us,
France & Germany & England, thinks that he now has the choice of
allies. But someone must be left out in the cold, and this year is
decision time. I am certain that this year will see EFG conflict.
>Will an alliance be able to make progress against France?
E&G could halt France in his tracks if they allied, but it would be
difficult to reduce the French strength without Italian help.
>The English capture of Belgium appeared to indicate some EF cooperation,
With LOTS of conversation, I came to believe that Russia was not going to
bounce me in the north. Also, it became fairly clear that E&G were going
to bounce again in Burgundy. Whether you call it cooperation, or simply
free exchange of information between EF&G, I was reasonably confident that
Belgium would work for me.
>It would be nice if St Petersburg were to fall to the English forces,
>without the loss of Norway. At least, any retreat of the Russian army back
>through Stp could be delayed by Nwy-StP this spring.
Understood.
Here is a slightly delicate matter, and I don't necessarily expect a
response. Russia has taken a hard hit and is on the ropes. Let's finish
him off entirely. That's one less competitor, one less
complication. Surely you worry about what will happen with Turkey after
Russia is gone. Turkey must be worried about you. I am nervous and
skittish as well, just like everyone else. I think it best, however, not
to let 1903 issues or 1904 issues cloud our 1902 judgement. When Russia is
dead, and the next enemy appears, there will also be other friends to be
found. That's what diplomacy of for. Sorry if I am overstating my case,
but let's finish the Russian business. You probably can take a shot at
Warsaw. Turkey might be given Rumania, provided he take it with a
fleet. Both StP and Sweden are vulnerable. It is possible that Germany
and I could become enemies, but I hope he and I can first finish off Russia
in the north.
I would be in your debt if you urged Germany to make Sweden his first priority.
And good luck.
Ivy Wingo
Message from Master to all
A player said:
>In games that I Master, I urge the players to write an EoY (End of
>Year) statement, or statements, during the Adjustment Phase each year.
> Some players Broadcast in-character "State of the Union" speeches,
>which would be fun for the Observers, but if we each send Doug a note
>each year revealing why we made the choices we did, it will make the
>Showcase much more instructive for people to read later.
.
.
.
>Some of these questions might be addressed in EoGs, but
>others will be overlooked, and the answers may reveal the differences
>between victory and defeat.
I wholeheartedly support this notion. This will be a showcase game,
of course, and your EoY broadcasts and just-to-master presses with
more description of your intentions are heartily encouraged. Many
beginners will no doubt rehash this game in the future, and if you're
willing to give them a glimpse of your strategy, I think it would be
a great help to them.
Either method is encouraged (broadcasts will be read by other players,
of course, whereas 'press to m' is to the silent universe that will
be reading along in years to come). Just as a reminder, though,
don't send a grey broadcast discussing the game and sign it with
your real name.
Cheers, everyone,
Doug
Message from Russia to Austria and Italy
Gentlemen,
We STILL have the opportunity to take Turkey out,
before he grows to big to be eliminated easily. For
your consideration:
Austria:
Gre-Aeg
Ser-Gre
Bud-Ser
Gal-Bud
Italy:
Ion-EMed
Nap-Ion
In the Fall, Tun-Ion-EMed-Smy/Syr, and
Aeg & Gre S Ser-Bul. Now, you might say that you
don't need me to do this, and strictly speaking,
that's true, but if you attack us both we will be
forced to ally, and that will slow your conquest
considerably.
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Italy to Austria
With Turkey's surprise build (at least I was surprised), we have the chance
to move into both the AEG and EMS. Was just curious if you were planning on
moving gre-aeg?
Also, do you have any interest in exchanging your fleet for an army and my
Tunis army for a fleet? It would be nice for me to have another fleet at my
disposal. The sooner I can influence the west and get to France the better
our chances down the road. Also, we wouldn't have to worry about
coordinating our fleet movements in and around the Eastern Med. Just a
suggestion.
I am interested in acquiring another supply center this year. I don't
consider Smyrna to be a viable option for acquisition this year since it
would be easy for Turkey to bounce me out if I moved to the EAS. I assume
he's going to move Ank-Arm but if I threatened Smy, he'd just move Arm-Smy
in the fall. Was wondering if you had any suggestions?
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Italy to Austria
>
> We STILL have the opportunity to take Turkey out,
> before he grows to big to be eliminated easily.
>
After thinking about it today, I would tend to agree with Russia. EG will
probably prevent Russia from getting into Sweden as STP needs to be
defended. Turkey is threatening Sev. You can prevent a Rumanian build. I
don't see Russia gaining a center anytime soon. He'll still be as weak when
Turkey is gone as he is now.
>
> but if you attack us both we will be forced to ally,
> and that will slow your conquest considerably.
>
This is the unfortunate drawback of attacking Russia first.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Italy to Austria and Russia
>
> We STILL have the opportunity to take Turkey out,
> before he grows to big to be eliminated easily.
>
I whole-heartedly agree. HOWEVER, I think Rumania should become Austrian
property in the process. Call it a good-will gesture for not pushing north
into Russian homeland. After all, the Turk was as much responsible for the
Rumanian debacle as Austria.
> For your consideration:
> Austria:
> Gre-Aeg
> Ser-Gre
> Bud-Ser
> Gal-Bud
>
> Italy:
> Ion-EMed
> Nap-Ion
>
So, I would alter the suggested moves slightly with:
Gal-Rum
Vie-Gal
In the fall, Tunis would convoy to Bulgaria with a bunch of support. Nobody
can blame me for suggesting a set of moves where Italy gains a build, right?
:)
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Italy to all
Van Lingle Mungo reporting for Vatican Tonight backstage with the winners of
the 1901 Titleist Awards. Not too many surprises at this years award show
but there was still plenty of excitement.
Oh wait, here comes the winner of the best unit in a supporting role.
VT: Mr Serbia, can we have a minute. That was quite a performance you put
on in the fall. Tell us about it.
Serbia: Well, I was, uh, like trying to help a friend but some Russian
sailor dudes caused some trouble and I guess the Romanian borders were
closed tight as a drum. Bummed me out. We're tired of these supporting
roles though. We're looking to ink a leading role next year.
VT: Speaking of the best unit in a leading role, look who just stopped by.
Mr Yorkshire, rumor is you get seasick. How was it you made it all the way
to Belgium?
Yorkshire: Good question. As you know, there was a contest to figure out
who Ive Wingo was. Turns out, I was the only one who knew and I won a
3-month vacation in Belgium. I haven't had a vacation in almost four years
so I couldn't pass up the chance. I blew chunks the whole way but the beach
scene here is worth it. A couple of Peptos and I'm good as new.
VT: Congratulations on the award. We look forward to your next move.
VT: Here come the two winners in the writing categories, France for best
writing of an original screenplay and Russia for best writing based on
material previously published. Gentlemen, I know you're excited but do you
care to comment on the night's proceedings?
Russia: My work stands by itself. Just because nobody else was nominated
doesn't mean my work wasn't deserving of the statue.
France: I'm stunned and honored. I've worked hard reporting the greatest
bicycle race in the world and it's nice to be recognized by the Academy. I
really didn't expect to win. Ivy and Nicky have written some great stuff
thru the year. All I can say is, thank you, thank you.
We go live now as the best director award is being presented.
And the 1901 Titleist Award for best direction goes to ..........
Archduke Ferdinand
Archduke: Thank you. This award could not have been possible without my
talented ambassadors to Europe. They do all the work and I reap the
benefits. Doesn't quite seem fair, but, then again, you said life was fair.
That's it for the 1901 Titleist Awards. We hope to see you all again next
year at this same time.
Van Lingle Mungo reporting for Vatican Tonight
Message from England to all
>Van Lingle Mungo reporting for Vatican Tonight backstage with the winners of
>the 1901 Titleist Awards.
OK, that does it. No more anonymity for Roberto. He was the winner of the
identify Ivy Wingo contest and knows that I also considered the even
wackier name Van Lingle Mungo. Van Lingle Mungo was another baseball
player. I ruled him out, because the name was harder to type and he was
already celebrated in song.
So Italy is awarded Belgium as his prize and only needs to arrive to claim it.
As for that comment, "beware the snake who crawls into Belgium," I was
referring to the second person in Belgium, not the first. Obviously.
Ivy Wingo
Message from France to all
I apologize for my recent silence. I know that I owe
most everyone messages. The Queen has had me washing
windows in the Palace. You think that once you get an
important job like The Ambassador to Europe, you are
beyond such things. I even won a content for my writing!
I have not been this happy since I won the third grade
poetry contest. All the other kids wrote dirty limericks
so were disqualified, but mine was still great.
Yesterday's Tour de France stage was won by Felix
Cardenas of Team Kelme. So no points are awarded to any
of our teams. A friend tells me that Lance Armstrong
took over the Yellow Jersey in today's stage. Simon must
have had no legs today in the Mountains. We french are
disappointed, but it seemed inevitable. I am still
waiting on the official times and report from my
reporters in the field. Therefore I will not update the
standing until later tonight.
Bonne Chance
-- Prince Boar
[Coming mother. I was just taking a short break ….]
Message from Germany to Austria
Austria:
Hmmm we talk so seldom I forget your name.
I guess we did have a common interest after all. I was hoping that we'd
keep Russia from building. How about that.
Well just wanted to say hi. I'm sure that you're in heavy negotiations
with Turkey and Italy. Just as I am with England and France.
Cheers
Freddy MCMXVIY
Message from Russia to Austria and Italy
Gentlemen,
Roberto Wrote >
> I think Rumania should become Austrian property in the process.
> Call it a good-will gesture for not pushing north into Russian
>homeland. After all, the Turk was as much responsible for the
> Rumanian debacle as Austria.
I would argue that War-Ukr, Mos-StP, followed by Sev-Rum are
sufficient good-will gestures for any reasonable person, but I'm not
realy in a position to make demands. Also, if we could get my Fleet
into Rum so that I could build F Sev, that will speed Turkey's
downfall.
> Gal-Rum
> Vie-Gal
I would expect that the Turk is going to attempt to take Rum himself
so Gal-Rim is likely to bounce, and I'd really rather see the AR DMZ of
Gal reinstated this Spring. If we decide that Austria should take Rum
it can still be done in the Fall.
> In the fall, Tunis would convoy to Bulgaria with a bunch of support.
Whether you convoy to Bul, Smy, or Syr is, of course, a decision for
you and Austria to make.
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 13 Results:
Lance Armstrong took the overall lead with a dramatic win
today atop Plas d'Adet in the Pyrenees. He attacked his
rivals on the steep slopes of the final climb, soloing to
a one-minute win over Jan Ullrich. Earlier Jan had
somersaulted into a ravine during a turn, but was able to
jump back up and continue the chase. In an act of flair
and fair play, Lance waited for his rival to catch up,
checking to make certain he was all right.
After this Stage win, England now holds first place
alone. If Lance Armstrong holds on to win the overall
race, it is unlikely that anyone can beat England. The
Dauphin says that he hopes Ivy's sister is cute. I say I
hope that Ivy's sister is off the Continent! :-)
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 30 points
France (Festina): 10 points
Germany (Telekom): 20 points
Italy (Fassa Bortolo): 10 points
Russia (Robobank): 20 points
Turkey (CSC): 20 points
Doug (O.N.C.E.): 0 points
Selected Standings:
1. Lance Armstrong (USP) 57:49:26
4. Jan Ullrich (TEL) @ 5:13
5. Joseba Beloki (ONC) @ 6:02
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to Austria
Ms. Felicia:
I am shamed that I have not written you sooner. It has
been too long. Let me first start by congratulating you
on your success. As someone pointed out, you are the
only southern power to have taken 5 units. I am sure
that you can overcome their ridiculous suggestion of
ganging up on the early leader. I am impressed, and
perhaps a bit frighten, at how you were able to both use
Turkey to deny Russia a build, but get Turkey to build an
army. Russia and Turkey are enemies. You and Italy are
friends. Things could not be better for you.
I embarrassed to have to mention this, but the Dauphin is
insisting. He wonders about the fact that you have not
written in a while and that your Tour de France team is
not succeeding. He feels that you are upset that your
sister would get the date with him and not yourself.
Therefore you are holding the team back. He says, and I
am really sorry about this one, that you both can come
along on the date with; in fact bring all your sisters.
I hope that you will not hold his bombastic behavior
against me.
I do look forward to hearing from you.
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 14 Results:
Today's stage was won by Roberto Laiseka of team
Euskaltel. It was fitting that a Spainard won a stage
in the Pyrenees. The important race was between the two
main contenders. Although Ullrich gave all he had, he
could not shake Armstrong loose. In a classic moment of
sportsmanship, Ullrich reach back at the finish line so
they could cross clasping hands. It was not only a sign
acknowledging Armstrongs' superior effort and eventual
final victory, but a sign of respect between the two
racers.
Tomorrow is a rest stage and then the race will become
about USP protecting Lance's lead.
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 30 points
France (Festina): 10 points
Germany (Telekom): 20 points
Italy (Fassa Bortolo): 10 points
Russia (Robobank): 20 points
Turkey (CSC): 20 points
Doug (O.N.C.E.): 0 points
Selected Standings:
1. Lance Armstrong (USP) 62 hours, 15 minutes, 4 seconds
2. Jan Ullrich (TEL) @ 5:05
3. Andrei Kivilev (COF) @ 5:13
4. Joseba Beloki (ONC)@ 6:33
-- Prince Boar
Message from Austria to Italy
Just got back from vacation. I did a quick read throgh my press, and am
giving only first impressions now; I'll write more Monday.
I think we've weakened Russia enough that I'm not too worried about the RT
alliance even if it does form; and Turkey's army build should limit his
ability to respond to an attack. So Austria-Hungary is tentatively
interested in shifting the primary target from Russia to Turkey.
I'm not sure yet if we should discuss it with Russia first; he's already
shown a willingness to broadcast private press.
More later.
Idalia, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to Turkey
I have been travelling (good weather, amazingly) and regret that I didn't
get a chance to try to talk you out of the army build. A fleet would seem
superior both strategically (the army is more useful for attacking
Austria-Hungary than Italy) and tactically (Gre could have bounced with Smy
in Aeg, then slide into Ion behind Eas s Ion-Aeg while Smy stayed put in the
fall, cutting off the Italian fleets and killing Italy).
Anyway, I'll take a look at the possibilities.
By the way, I haven't studied it yet, but Russia sent a proposal to Italy
and I jointly, that the three of us cooperate to take you out. I suspect
that he and Italy have already discussed sandwiching me afterward, but I'll
review his proposal to see if there's anything there we can use.
More later,
Tamara, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to all
Archduke Ferdinand has returned from his journey, and is currently
consulting with his ambassadors and advisors. The ambassadors will
soon be responding to many of the communciations received.
Message from Austria to France
> Things could not be better for you.
Which means they are about to get worse, of course.
> He wonders about the fact that you have not written in a
> while and that your Tour de France team is not succeeding.
The lack of communication is due to the Archduke's travels;
those are ended now for a while. As to the bicyclists, our
team has been weakened due to the best athletes serving their
country in the military.
> I do look forward to hearing from you.
I know less and less with each passing day. I do wonder about
your repeated clashes in Burgundy, and the French civilians
that were welcoming the English military to Belgium. Will you
and England be cooperating in the offensive against Germany?
Or is that all misdirection, so that England will not be
expecting your attack?
I'm sure you have questions about the east, but I don't have
any answers. Russia believes he was stabbed, and is trying to
muster support; I have no idea how successful he's been.
Felicia, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to Italy
> I whole-heartedly agree. HOWEVER, I think Rumania should become
> Austrian property in the process. Call it a good-will gesture
> for not pushing north into Russian homeland. After all, the Turk
> was as much responsible for the Rumanian debacle as Austria.
Heh, thanks for this.
> In the fall, Tunis would convoy to Bulgaria with a bunch of support. Nobody
> can blame me for suggesting a set of moves where Italy gains a build, right?
Support from Gre, Ser, and Rum; and Eas can hit Smy, forcing Arm to
defend (assuming Ank-Arm this spring). Neat.
I don't want to send Russia any promises or agreements; he wouldn't
give them any credence, and he's liable to use them for propaganda
purposes.
But I will move to Aeg, and help you get the next build.
Earlier, you wrote:
> I'll hold off on committing my units until I see the builds. For
> instance, should Germany build two fleets, I'd feel much more
> comfortable about moving my army out of Tyrolia. Should he build two
> armies, then Tyr-Boh coupled with Mun-Tyr would be devasting to me
> and he'd be much more likely to make that move if he had two new
> armies to cover Munich.
He built only one army. If you really fear Mun-Tyr behind your
Tyr-Boh, I can order Vie-Tyr behind you. But I think Mun-Tyr would be
fairly bizarre with the west still unsettled, unless the fabled western
Triple actually comes to fruition.
Idalia, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to Russia
> Do you really expect me to believe that?
Frankly, no, but I told the truth anyway.
> If the Archduke had such doubts, you should have contacted me
> yesterday and asked if I had come to a decision regarding
> Rumania
Orders went out before the Archduke left for his vacation. He was
only briefly in contact during the week, and that was after the
results of the movements were known. It certainly sounded like
Russia was not committed to fighting against Turkey. Turkey, on
the other hand, was certainly prepared to commit against Russia.
If not for the complications of geography, the choice would have
been obvious. The obvious dangers to Austria from allying with
Turkey, however, made my decision difficult.
> and, in any event, he should have respected our agreed
> upon DMZ in Galicia.
Should he have? In retrospect, since your own decision seems to
have come down on the side of the angels, you are right. Had your
decision been otherwise, the move to Galicia would have proven vital
to Austria-Hungary's national survival.
> We are not yet at war, but we are on the very brink.
I agree. But I am reluctant to attempt delicate private
negotiations with a prospective partner who kvetches in public
about private misunderstandings.
> If the Archduke feels that he can attack Russia since I only have
> one Fleet and one Army in the south, please remind him of my
> favorite aphorism, 'The pen is mightier than the sword.', and
> consider what I can do to Austria-Hungary with my pen before and
> after my military strength has been destroyed.
You seem to be assuming that Austria-Hungary has both the desire
and ability to destroy your military strength. I suggest that we
have neither.
On the Archduke's orders, I may not discuss prospective troop
movements at this time. But I suggest that any declaration of war
or desparate defensive strategms would be regretted by Russia even
more than by Austria-Hungary.
Ralassa, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from France to Austria
Ms. Felicia:
The English presence in Belgium and the bounce with
Germany in Burgundy was not my choice. A hasty decision
without discussion caused it. No one knows for sure how
things will end up in the West. This should be a
revealing turn.
I wish you luck. May your soldiers ride to further
glory.
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to all
[Greetings I am Trey Wingo and I have agreed to add
commentary to the presentation by Prince Boar on the
State of France at the Annual Symposium on Philosophy,
Europe and Everything. Why is an ESPN Sportscaster
commenting on Politics and Philosophy? Well, first of
all I always wanted to travel to France. Second, if my
third cousin Ivy can go from being a catcher to
Ambassador for England, I can comment on Philosophy. And
third, I am tired of Stuart Scott getting all the cool
jobs.]
Spring 1902 Symposium on Philosophy, Europe and
Everything.
- by Prince Xavier Boar
First I would like to thank the people of France for
inviting me to be the Plenary Speaker at this annual
symposium. It is one that is dear to my heart. The
topic for my speech will always be the state of a State
of the Union Address for France, although I reserve the
right to add a little philosophy. This first
presentation may be short of details because I will be
trying to cover both 1901 as well as pre-1901, and
perhaps a peak at 1902.
[The people did not really invite him, rather some
anonymous person suggested these presentation. The rumor
is that Prince Boar paid this person to make the
suggestion, just so he could "bore" the people with his
philosophies.]
Pre-1901
The original goal of my Bother, the Dauphin, and I was to
try to ….
[Unfortunately this part of the presentation was censored
due to state secrets. Why the color of the Dauphin's
underwear is a state secret is beyond me. Nevertheless I
cannot comment on what I heard.]
.
.
.
Philosophy
Many of you have speculated why the Dauphin does not
assume the thrown not that our father is so ill. Some
have even absurdly suggested that I might be more fit.
In reply I quote Plato
Philosophers should become Kings and
Kings should become Philosophers.
My brother is not yet ready to become a philosopher and I
am not yet ready to become a King. In the end only he
can be King, but together we may substitute in our
father's illness. We still have much to learn form him.
For example ….
[Here I will cut off the "highlights". I want to save to
you from it. Besides I fell asleep three times and
really do not know what he was saying.]
[Until next time,
Trey]
(loud enough for the speakers to barely pick it up)
[Now where are those French Babes you guys promised to
introduce me to if I took this gig]
Message from Russia to Austria and Italy
Ralassa, and Roberto,
(I am including Roberto in this conversation in hopes
that he can act as a moderating influence.)
>Message from Austria to Russia in 'titleist':
> > > when you told me you hadn't decided between
> > > an army or fleet in Rum, the Archduke thought
> > > that meant the army was coming, and felt > > forced to accept Turkey's
>proposal.
> > Do you really expect me to believe that?
>Frankly, no, but I told the truth anyway.
Ok, let's review: S1901M: I propose a DMZ of
Gal, and honor it, while moving Mos-StP, Sev-Bla.
I defy you to find a more pro-Austrian opening for
Russia. You expressed a preference that I occupy
Rum with a Fleet, and build a second Fleet in Sev.
I replied that I agreed that we both needed southern
Fleets, but that taking Rum with the Army offered
the possibility of my gaining useful intelligence
from the Turk. You expressed concern that I was
undecided about attacking Turkey because I listed
the advantages that taking Rum with an Army gave us.
I replied (still 3 1/2 days before orders were due,
and only 38 hours after the Spring Results arrived:
> > I expect that I will order F Sev-Rum, and build > F Sev, but I haven't
>finalized that decision, > yet. I am committed to AR vs. T, but if the
>Turk
> > were to suggest that I move to Bla this Fall, > and then Con in the
>Spring, with the intention > of moving to Aeg next Fall, I wouldn't turn
>him > down. (I wouldn't move out of Con next Fall,
> > either, but... 8-)
>
> > In Alliance,
We then went on to discuss the situation in the west,
and the possibility of Italy ordering Ven-Pie on
Tuesday, some 34 hours before the Fall Deadline, but
you did not ask whether I had finalized my decision
regarding Rum, so I had no suspicion that the Archduke
was the least bit concerned about my plans for Rum,
and frankly, I don't see that he had any reason to be
concerned.
>It certainly sounded like Russia was not committed
>to fighting against Turkey.
How does my being unwilling to finalize my
move 3 1/2 days before the deadline translate to a
lack of commitment to the alliance against Turkey?
It's right there in my last press to you on the
subject, "I'm committed to AR vs. T"! What more
could I have done, proxied my units to you?
> > and, in any event, he should have respected our > agreed upon DMZ in
>Galicia.
Should he have?
Yes.
>Had your decision been otherwise, the move to
>Galicia would have proven vital to Austria-Hungary's national survival.
I ordered Mos-StP. If I ordered Ukr-Gal
in the Fall, breaking our agreement, I would
have been left with an unsupported attack on
Rum with my Fleet. That's not a rational set
of orders by any definition that I've encountered.
If I ordered Sev S Ukr-Gal, and it worked, AND
GoB-Swe worked, AND I built A War and A Mos,
AND I had attacked Austria, rather than
Turkey or Germany, or England, you could have
still bounced any attempt I made to break our
DMZ in Gal. I'm sorry, even if I had TOLD you
that I was ordering Ukr-Rum, there was no need
for you to order Vie-Gal.
> > We are not yet at war,
>I agree. But I am reluctant to attempt delicate private negotiations with
>a prospective partner who kvetches in public about private
>misunderstandings.
I view treaty violations as a bit more than
"private misunderstandings", particularly when
there is no justification for the violation. I
have honored our agreements. As long as Austria
does so, you need not fear any "public kvetching".
>You seem to be assuming that Austria-Hungary
>has both the desire and ability to destroy
>your military strength. I suggest that we
>have neither.
Austria supported a Turkish attack on a Supply
Center that Austria had agreed would fall under
Russian control. Austria violated an agreed upon
DMZ, moving adjacent to an open Russian Home
Center. Why? Because I said I hadn't finalized my
decision to order F Sev-Rum. What conclusion
should I draw from these actions? That Austria
intends Russia harm seems a much more reasonable
conclusion than the one which you claim the
Archduke drew from our negotiations this Summer.
>I may not discuss prospective troop movements
>at this time.
The time to discuss them grows short. I have
laid out a reasonable course of action which gains
Austria, Italy, and Russia a build this year. I
await your response.
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Italy to Austria and Russia
>
> (I am including Roberto in this conversation in hopes
> that he can act as a moderating influence.)
>
I'm honored; however, I'm not completely comfortable in being privy to
private press. I understand the reasoning in including it as a history and
background to the current conversation but if there were a way to have this
discussion without quoting actual press, I'd prefer it.
It's apparent that AR have had some misunderstandings regarding Galicia and
Rumania. I'll let you two decide where units should be placed so that
you're both comfortable but we need to focus on Turkey. The bottom line is,
if the dust in the west settles before the dust in the east, all three of us
are SOL. I truly believe none of us want the Turk at our back for the rest
of this game and that his elimination is important for all three of us and
our future growth.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Italy to Austria
>
> > I whole-heartedly agree. HOWEVER, I think Rumania should become
> > Austrian property in the process. Call it a good-will gesture
> > for not pushing north into Russian homeland. After all, the Turk
> > was as much responsible for the Rumanian debacle as Austria.
>
> Heh, thanks for this.
>
Not a problem. I understand Russia's argument but he's not negotiating from
a position of strength anymore.
>
> Support from Gre, Ser, and Rum; and Eas can hit Smy, forcing Arm to
> defend (assuming Ank-Arm this spring). Neat.
>
That's what I had in mind.
> I don't want to send Russia any promises or agreements; he wouldn't
> give them any credence, and he's liable to use them for propaganda
> purposes.
>
That does appear to be blatantly obvious. Like I said, I'm not really
comfortable with the private press passing. I'm going to have to be really
careful what I say to Russia now. If he'll quote you there's no reason to
think he wouldn't do the same to me. Not what I'm looking for in a friend.
> But I will move to Aeg, and help you get the next build.
>
Thanks. I think it's vital that I gain a build this turn and not just to
keep up with you. You're fighting more fronts than me at the moment and
it's reasonable for you to have more units. However, I don't want to become
easy prey for the west. I want them to think it will be a long and
difficult battle if they head towards Italy. Another Italian fleet
stationed in the TYS will do the job. France only has two fleets and to get
a third he'd have to take a center from either EG (or me I suppose). But,
if I get a build, taking a center from me would be virtually impossible and
it would keep France where I want him, battling EG.
>
> He built only one army. If you really fear Mun-Tyr behind your
> Tyr-Boh, I can order Vie-Tyr behind you. But I think Mun-Tyr would be
> fairly bizarre with the west still unsettled, unless the
> fabled western Triple actually comes to fruition.
>
I don't fear a Mun-Tyr move but I think I'm still going to have Tyrolia hold
if that's alright with you. As I see it, the west has four options: EF vs
G, FG vs E, EG vs F, and EFG vs the world. I can see advantages for Tyrolia
in 3 of the 4 instances.
EF vs G - Tyrolia would be used to support the German position in hopes that
EF don't achieve their goal too fast. It wouldn't prevent EF from
progressing but would hopefully slow them down enough.
EG vs F - Tyrolia would be used to distract Germany again with the hopes of
slowing down progress.
EFG vs the world - Tyrolia would be critical in this case. I'd have the
ability to go to Piedmont and it also prevents the disasterous Mun-Tyr move.
FG vs E - in this case, Tyrolia wouldn't be as important or influential in
slowing down the west so would be free to continue it's trek north.
However, just my presence in Tyrolia makes Germany think about his choice.
For all these reasons plus the fact that you already have an army
superiority over Russia, I think it best that I hold down the vital
defensive position in Tyrolia. Do you agree or do you still think I should
move to Bohemia?
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to Austria and Italy
>Message from Italy to Austria and Russia in 'titleist':
>
> > (I am including Roberto in this conversation in hopes
> > that he can act as a moderating influence.)
>
>I'm honored; however, I'm not completely comfortable in being privy to
>private press.
My apologies. I do not normally make a habit of
forwarding or publishing Press, but I do tend to
quote extensively in reply, and my previous note
began it's life as a private reply to Austria.
When I got to the end, however, and Ralassa's
inability to discuss troop movements, it became
a matter of interest to Italy, since we need to
coordinate our efforts against Turkey. So, I
changed the "Press to " line, and added the note
explaining why I had included him.
Nick.
Message from Austria to Italy
> I don't fear a Mun-Tyr move but I think I'm still going to have Tyrolia hold
> if that's alright with you. As I see it, the west has four options: EF vs
> G, FG vs E, EG vs F, and EFG vs the world. I can see advantages for Tyrolia
> in 3 of the 4 instances.
Your analysis is thorough. But I would still prefer the army to move to
Boh, so that I don't have to consider my vulnerability to a stab which
includes Tyr-Tri in the fall. I don't currently think such a stab is in
your interest, and I trust you to follow that interest, but it is possible
that I might have to make sub-optimal moves in the fall to ensure that
Tyr-Tri continued to not be in your interest. If you order Tyr-Boh in the
spring, I am freer to move with full aggression against Turkey and Russia
withou worrying about my back.
For most of your scenarios, Boh is as strong in support or threat to Germany
as Tyrolia would be. It lacks the ability to move to Pie, and does leave
Tyr itself open if Germany chooses Mun-Tyr. But it gains by being closer to
Ber, War, Mos, and StP. If it were my own unit, I might have a slight
preference for Tyr, but given the lessening of the stab concern, I think
Tyr-Boh is better for us jointly this turn.
Since Gal is going to be employed in and around Rum, Warsaw will not be
taken this fall. Your army in Silesia will probably be involved next year
in the taking of War. Getting to Silesia this fall should be that army's
best use, with its influence on the western situation a secondary utility.
All that said, if you really prefer that it stay in Tyr, it is your army to
order, and that will cause no serious harm to our alliance.
Idalia, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to Russia
> Ok, let's review: S1901M: I propose a DMZ of Gal, and
> honor it, while moving Mos-StP, Sev-Bla.
I agree that you have committed no act of war, no act of
treachery, and no act contrary to the interests of the
alliance we hoped to form.
I did attempt to explain the Archduke's decision to enter
Galicia. This was not intended as accusation, nor even as
justification. You did deserve to know why such a move was
made, and I was instructed to tell you.
> How does my being unwilling to finalize my
> move 3 1/2 days before the deadline translate to a
> lack of commitment to the alliance against Turkey?
Because the alternative you were allegedly ruminating was an
uncommitting move, despite the Archduke's thrice-repeated
preference for the relatively committing Sev-Rum.
> I ordered Mos-StP. If I ordered Ukr-Gal
> in the Fall, breaking our agreement, I would
> have been left with an unsupported attack on
> Rum with my Fleet.
If you had ordered Ukr-Rum, as you gave indications was
likely, you could not have built a new fleet in Sev, but only
an army in Warsaw. Your position would have been more
threatening to Austria-Hungary than to Turkey. The Archduke
was surprised and embarassed that your moves actually were the
superior Sev-Rum. He takes full responsibility for the
current unfortunate situation; my responsibility is to attempt
to resolve it.
> I view treaty violations as a bit more than
> "private misunderstandings", particularly when
> there is no justification for the violation.
If we publish our treaties, then their violations will also be
public. If we reach a private agreement, then the custom in
my nation is that misunderstandings and disagreements should
be dealt with in private.
> That Austria intends Russia harm seems a much more
> reasonable conclusion than the one which you claim the
> Archduke drew from our negotiations this Summer.
Yes, it does; and I am aware that it does. We are at the
brink of a war. But there is still hope that war will be
averted.
> The time to discuss them grows short. I have
> laid out a reasonable course of action which gains
> Austria, Italy, and Russia a build this year. I
> await your response.
Your proposed course is indeed reasonable, but even if I were
to indicate that Austria-Hungary would move in accordance with
it, what reason have you to believe me? While if you do mean
me harm, truthful information about intended military actions
could be used to gain advantage. No, I will not be discussing
the spring orders with you. If you move in accordance with
the Italian plan, you will probably not be disappointed.
Ralassa, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Russia to Austria
Ralassa,
> If you had ordered Ukr-Rum, as you gave indications was
> likely, you could not have built a new fleet in Sev, but only
> an army in Warsaw. Your position would have been more
> threatening to Austria-Hungary than to Turkey.
I urge you and the Archduke to reread my my review of our
negotiations, or our negotiations themselves. I never indicated that
Ukr-Rum was likely, I merely offered it as an intelligence-gathering
alternative to Sev-Rum. Indeed I, in fact, indicated that I was
expecting to order Sev-Rum and build F Sev as you had requested.
Secondly, even if I had moved Ukr-Rum, that does not force a build
in War, I could still have built in Mos or StP, and even if I had build
in War, my position would still have been less threatening to Austria
than Austria's is to Russia now, or, for that matter, than Italy's is to
Austria now.
> > I view treaty violations as a bit more than
> > "private misunderstandings", particularly when
> > there is no justification for the violation.
>
> If we publish our treaties, then their violations will also be
> public. If we reach a private agreement, then the custom in
> my nation is that misunderstandings and disagreements should
> be dealt with in private.
The Foreign Ministry representative has been reprimanded for
leaking the information to the newspaper, but frankly, the fact that
the Archduke places so little value upon his word, is something the
other Great Powers deserve to know, in our opinion.
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Russia to Austria and Italy
Ralassa, and Roberto,
Ralassa, speaking for the Archduke, Wrote >
> Your proposed course is indeed reasonable, but even if I were
> to indicate that Austria-Hungary would move in accordance with
> it, what reason have you to believe me?
Frankly, very little, but if you commit to a set of moves to both
Russia, and Italy, then reneging on that agreement would represent
a betrayal of two allies, and I suspect that even the Archduke would
be relucant to do that.
> While if you do mean me harm, truthful information about intended
> military actions could be used to gain advantage.
Oh, come now, what "advantage" could I gain? Security for my
Home Centers, perhaps the build I was entitled to last year for
Rum? Even if you lay out your plans for me completely, the most
I could do would be to support a Turkish Convoy to Rum, while
moving Ukr-Gal, and the mount a two Unit attack on Budapest
which you could easily repulse. And the end result of that would
be two Turkish Units adjacent to Sev. I may be a fool, but I'm
not an idiot!
> No, I will not be discussing the spring orders with you. If you
> move in accordance with the Italian plan, you will probably not
> be disappointed.
This is, simply, unacceptable. Austria-Hungary violated our
agreement without cause, and gave support to Russia's enemies,
but I am willing to set those actions aside, and work with you
toward the greater European good of eliminating Turkey.
For Russia to do that, however, I need you to commit to
pro-Russian, anti-Turkish moves, and then execute those moves
this Spring. If you do not wish to reveal your full plan to me, then
fine, reveal it to Roberto, I am willing to accept his word in this
matter, but the actions of the Austrian Army in Galicia, and the
final status of Rumania are subjects that we must agree upon.
Czar Nicholas II, for Russia and the European Economic Union.
Message from England to Austria
Edna,
Ages ago, it seems, I sent you a note urging you to cooperate with Turkey
in the elimination of Russia.
I value your opinion of me, so I should tell you that I, myself, cannot
attack StP this turn. My highest priority is to survive within the EFG
triangle and make a friend of either France or Germany. For their own
mysterious reasons BOTH France and Germany do not want me going for
StP. Thus, I will not.
This does not change my feeling that a nation, like Russia, that is on the
ropes ought to be finished swiftly for the good of all survivors. I doubt
that Russia will hold on in the north much longer.
Ivy Wingo
Message [from France] to all
BG> Holey Lepanto Diploman, did I miss something?
DM> Yes Boy Gambit, we have had a fall move as well as an adjustment phase.
BG> Wow! Are there any betrayers that we can bring to justice? I read in the
news that Austria betrayed Russia?
DM> Well, it appears that Austria and Turkey combined to betray Russia. But we
have not yet heard their side of the story.
BG> We should bring them in just in case.
DM> Now now, Boy Gambit, due process must be followed.
BG> What about Germany and France. Do they keep bouncing in Burgundy because
they cannot get along or was there a German betrayal?
DM> We have not heard but are vigorously investigating the matter. What
situations do you see that bear watching for this season?
BG> Well, Turkey seems to have a big kick me sign on his back. He must trust
Austria and Italy. Will that trust be betrayed?
DM> Yes, Boy Gambit! Excellent! Anything else?
BG> Ummmmm.
DM> What about the English-French-German triangle. Something must give up
there.
BG> Oh yeah. But whom will be betrayed?
DM> That is a good question. We must watch and see.
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 15 Results:
Today's stage was won by Rik Verbrugghue of Team Lotto
Adecco. He was part of a huge breakaway, but one that
did not contain any of the contenders. No points were
awarded for our game. Since the contenders were all in
the main pack (peloton), they were all given the same
time. Therefore there was no change in the standings at
the top.
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 30 points
France (Festina): 10 points
Germany (Telekom): 20 points
Italy (Fassa Bortolo): 10 points
Russia (Robobank): 20 points
Turkey (CSC): 20 points
Doug (O.N.C.E.): 0 points
Selected Standings:
1. Lance Armstrong (USP) 62 hours, 15 minutes, 4 seconds
2. Jan Ullrich (TEL) @ 5:05
3. Andrei Kivilev (COF) @ 5:13
4. Joseba Beloki (ONC)@ 6:33
Message from Turkey to Austria
Tamara,
I trust that your Archduke is doing well and is refreshed after his travels.
I apologize that I did not reply sooner; I was also out of e-mail contact
for a brief but untimely period. This was unexpected and unavoidable, and
it in no way signals Turkish ill-will for Austria. Anyway, down to
business.
> I have been travelling (good weather, amazingly) and regret that I didn't
> get a chance to try to talk you out of the army build. A fleet would seem
> superior both strategically (the army is more useful for attacking
> Austria-Hungary than Italy) and tactically (Gre could have bounced with
Smy
> in Aeg, then slide into Ion behind Eas s Ion-Aeg while Smy stayed put in
the
> fall, cutting off the Italian fleets and killing Italy).
Admittedly, there were many opportunities to the fleet as well. I now find
myself wishing that you had talked me out of it. Since I did not hear from
you, I assumed you had no objection. I assure you that my build was aimed
100% at Russia, not Austria-Hungary. I was too focused on Russia, I
suppose, and I had hoped Italy could be convinced to head west. I now see
this didn't happen.
It is clear that Italy will be ordering the leponto move of Ion-EMS,
Nap-Ion. If you're still with me, you could easily defeat this with
Gre-Ion. This would still enable me to attack Russia while keeping Italy
off my back. What do you say?
> By the way, I haven't studied it yet, but Russia sent a proposal to Italy
> and I jointly, that the three of us cooperate to take you out. I suspect
> that he and Italy have already discussed sandwiching me afterward, but
I'll
> review his proposal to see if there's anything there we can use.
Find anything interesting? I hope that you are not taking them up on this
proposal, as you surely will get sandwiched between them. England and
Germany have apparently decided to go easy on Russia after his rough start.
England writes that he will not be attacking StP, at Germany's request. So
chances seem good that Russia will gain Sweden after all. If you conspire
with Italy and Russia against me, then Russia has a good shot at Rumania as
well (as I will assist him if I'm stabbed).
> More later,
I'm eager to hear the latest news. I hope that we are still on board as we
had planned. We were the only two powers who actually cooperated in the
first year. My feeling is that could give us an advantage, if we only carry
through. I very much hope you're still on board.
I look forward to your reply,
Ali Baba
Message from Austria to Turkey
> I apologize that I did not reply sooner; I was also out of e-mail contact
> for a brief but untimely period. This was unexpected and unavoidable, and
> it in no way signals Turkish ill-will for Austria.
I understand; no apology is necessary, and no ill-will was presumed.
> It is clear that Italy will be ordering the leponto move of Ion-EMS,
> Nap-Ion. If you're still with me, you could easily defeat this with
> Gre-Ion. This would still enable me to attack Russia while keeping Italy
> off my back. What do you say?
If I act so clearly against Italy's interest, I'll become his primary
target. I don't doubt that I would prevail, nor that you would prevail
against Russia at this point even without my help. But the resultant
position will be awkward for both of us, with you inland from me. Also, in
fighting Italy, I would probably want to build a fleet, which would become
useless for further expansion.
> Find anything interesting? [in the Russian-Italian proposal for an AIR
> alliance]
They want me to move to Aeg and support Russia to Rumania.
> I hope that you are not taking them up on this proposal, as you surely
> will get sandwiched between them.
Yes, that's apparent enough that I'm looking for something further hidden
behind it. But Russia has nothing to lose by proposing it, and Italy comes
out in good shape whether I accept it or reject it.
> England and Germany have apparently decided to go easy on Russia after his
> rough start. England writes that he will not be attacking StP, at
> Germany's request.
Germany doesn't want Russia to fall too quickly; Russia locked into a
struggle against you and I is perfect for him. I am surprised that England
is going along, but that may be the cost of an EG rather than an FG
alliance.
> So chances seem good that Russia will gain Sweden after all. If you
> conspire with Italy and Russia against me, then Russia has a good shot at
> Rumania as well (as I will assist him if I'm stabbed).
Of course.
I would prefer to keep Italy at worst uncertain about my intentions, until
you get an outside fleet built. Gre-Aeg would help that, and also let you
scream "stab" and set up Russia in the fall. If we go ahead with that, I
can either follow the IR plan completely in the spring (Bud s Sev-Rum),
which lets you take both Rum and Sev in the fall and ruin Russia; or I can
carry on against Russia in the spring, letting you take Rum yourself and
presumably Sev in the fall anyway, while I take War.
Again, if you prefer, I will eschew the fancy play, and go for the straight
AT alliance play immediately. As I warned you earlier, I am perhaps too
enamored of complexity, and I rely on you to advise me if I'm going
overboard.
But in this case, straight alliance play seems likely to lead to an awkward
position in a couple years, where your best strategic play might be to stab
me. I don't look for an ally to bypass his best play out of loyalty, and I
prefer to ensure that my ally always has better expectations by working with
me than stabbing me.
The Archduke has not ordered his forces yet, but he would like to order
Gal-Ukr, Bud-Gal, Ser s Bul-Rum, Gre-Aeg, and Vienna either -Tyr, -Tri, or H
depending on the vibe from Italy. Your thoughts?
Tamara, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to England
Ivy,
> I value your opinion of me, so I should tell you that I, myself, cannot
> attack StP this turn. My highest priority is to survive within the EFG
> triangle and make a friend of either France or Germany. For their own
> mysterious reasons BOTH France and Germany do not want me going for
> StP. Thus, I will not.
Germany's reason isn't mysterious; he wants Russia tied up in conflict, not
eliminated, so he doesn't have to worry about Austria-Hungary on his
southern and eastern borders.
France's reason isn't mysterious; he wants Russia to survive as his
potential ally against either E or G, or both. My information is that it
was France who encouraged Russia's opening to StP, as he feared an EG
alliance and wanted to ensure that E, at least, had to focus elsewhere.
I urge you to at least support Den-Swe, which certainly would promote EG
amity, and keep alive the possibility of Nwy-StP in the fall.
Edna, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Italy to Austria
> But I would still prefer the army to move to Boh, so that I don't
> have to consider my vulnerability to a stab which includes Tyr-Tri
> in the fall.
Russia has told me flat out that if I move to Bohemia, any deal involving
AIR against Turkey would be out of the question. I'd prefer to hold in
Tyrolia until progress has been made on Turkey.
I have no doubts that taking Warsaw from Russia will be a simple exercise in
tactics whenever we decide to make that move.
I'll be much more comfortable moving the army north once I have another
fleet in hand to defend against anything France might have in mind and we're
well on our way to finishing off Turkey.
I understand your analysis and definitely reconsidered the move but I think
it best for Italy to hold Tyrolia at this point. I'm glad to hear that it
will not jeapordize our alliance because I think we have the best shot at
making progress than anybody else. I might be proven wrong here shortly,
but that's what I think as an aside observer just looking at the map for the
first time.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to all
My thanks to everyone for their well-wishes. The good news is that the
doctors ruled out any life-threatening, critical causes for the pain my wife
is experiencing. The
bad news is, they're not quite sure what is causing it. We'll be motoring
off to see our family physician in the morning, so please forgive me if my
responses are not as prompt or as detailed as they have been in the next day
or two. Once again, our thanks.
Nick, Alexandra, and Alexi.
Message from Austria to Turkey
I know it's only been 4 hours, but I haven't heard from you following my
last message, and it's less than half an hour to deadline. I will be going
ahead with my own proposal, and hoping you aren't too offended. I really,
really want your fleets at the front of the assault on Italy, and don't want
to start a war with him myself when you can't take any Italian SCs.
My orders will be:
Gre - Aeg
Bud s Bul-Rum
Gal - Ukr
Ser - Bul
Vie - Gal
The Ser-Bul move will bounce Con-Bul, so you won't have two armies on my
border at once.
This will look very stabby, and you should be able to convince Russia to
"work together," so we'll end up taking War and Sev while holding Rum in the
fall.
Tamara, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to Turkey
OK, now I'm confused. I thought the judge was on US eastern time? It looks
like it's on central time.
I'll be around until shortly before the deadline.
Tamara, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Austria: Army Budapest SUPPORT Turkish Army Bulgaria → Rumania (*void*)
Austria: Army Galicia → Ukraine
Austria: Fleet Greece → Aegean Sea
Austria: Army Serbia → Bulgaria (*bounce*)
Austria: Army Vienna → Galicia
England: Army Belgium SUPPORT German Army Munich → Burgundy
England: Fleet Edinburgh → North Sea
England: Fleet London SUPPORT Fleet North Sea → English Channel
England: Fleet North Sea → English Channel
England: Fleet Norway HOLD
France: Fleet Brest → English Channel (*bounce*)
France: Army Paris → Burgundy (*bounce*)
France: Army Picardy SUPPORT Army Paris → Burgundy
France: Fleet Portugal HOLD
France: Army Spain → Gascony
Germany: Fleet Berlin → Baltic Sea
Germany: Fleet Denmark SUPPORT Fleet Berlin → Baltic Sea
Germany: Army Holland SUPPORT Army Kiel → Ruhr (*void*)
Germany: Army Kiel SUPPORT Army Holland
Germany: Army Munich → Burgundy (*bounce*)
Italy: Fleet Ionian Sea → Eastern Mediterranean
Italy: Fleet Naples → Ionian Sea
Italy: Army Tunis HOLD
Italy: Army Tyrolia HOLD
Russia: Army Finland → Gulf of Bothnia → Livonia
Russia: Fleet Gulf of Bothnia CONVOY Army Finland → Livonia
Russia: Fleet Sevastopol SUPPORT Turkish Army Ankara → Rumania
Russia: Army Ukraine → Warsaw
Turkey: Army Ankara → Black Sea → Rumania
Turkey: Fleet Black Sea CONVOY Army Ankara → Rumania
Turkey: Army Bulgaria SUPPORT Italian Army Tunis → Greece (*void*)
Turkey: Army Constantinople → Smyrna
|