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Message from England to Turkey
Ali Baba,
I have a brief wind of time this morning, so I thought I would shoot off a
couple of messages.
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 Austria after
Russia is gone. Austria 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. Urge Austria to take a shot at
Warsaw. He ought to let you have Rumania, provided you take it with a
fleet. Both StP and Sweden are vulnerable. In a parallel situation out
west, it is possible that Germany
and I could become enemies one day, 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. The four of us, EGA&T, although possible enemies down the road,
have a job to finish.
Most cordially,
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 France to Turkey
Ali Baba:
>I 'm sorry to see your apparent problems
>with the German.
Well, he is the kind of guy you likes to dictate rather
than discuss. At least I knew that he was coming to
Burgundy. So it is not as bad as it seems. Messy yes,
beyond repair hopefully not.
>All is pretty much as it seems in the south.
>I ultimately decided that Russian policies
>were not in Turkey's best interests. I have a
>nagging feeling that I'm just opening myself
>up to a Lepanto
It looks like it is a very serious possibility to me.
Russia is definitely not pro-Austrian any more. He might
be willing to give you Rumania just to prevent your
attacking him. I would be careful if I were you. But it
is your risk to take not mine :-)
-- Prince Boar
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 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 Turkey
Ali Baba
How are things going on your end of world? I have little
to report. I still do not know whom will be attacked,
between England, Germany and France.
Italy has not told me what he plans to do. I did at
least suggest that he had a choice between the Lepanto
and stabbing Austria. I did not suggest attacking
France, of course. Hopefully your gamble will pay off.
I do worry that with you and Russia fighting that Austria
and Italy will stab you and you will crumble while Russia
topples. That is not only bad for you, but not to my
liking either. I really do not want to see all those
Italian units looking for their next place to go. I hope
that you are cautious and consider peace with Russia.
Negotiate Rumania so you at least have a build. Just do
not leave your homeland too open that you cannot defend a
joint move to Eastern and the Aegean.
-- Prince Boar
Message from Russia to Turkey
My Dear Ali,
My, your trust in the goodwill of AI is astonishing! Do you really
think
they'll let you have Rumania, or support you into Sevastopol? Do you
expect Italy to just ignore Ion-Aeg/EMed, Nap-Ion, followed by
Tun-Ion-Aeg/EMed-Bul/Con/Smy/Syr? Would you care to discuss how
we can cooperate to hold them off?
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
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 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 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 Italy to Turkey
Ali,
Just heard from Austria and he has told me he is moving Gre-Aeg. Is the
army in Bulgaria free to support Tun-Gre as we previously discussed? I'd
also move Nap-Apu in preparation for taking the Adriatic in the fall. I'd
also seriously consider a Tyr-Vie move just in case Austria happened to
vacate in a push into Russia. I would return the favor and support you into
Serbia at your request.
I'm sure your answer depends on how you think Russia will react to the moves
of the first year and specifically what you think his Ukranian army will do.
If you think he'll use it to defend Warsaw, then Sevastopol could be yours
and we'd each build this coming year.
I understand if you feel the need to use Bulgaria to influence whatever will
happen in Rumania this coming year.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
I'm a bit behind on my mail, so if you've sent another press that I didn't
answer I apologize. I did want to get off a quick reply to this one though.
> Just heard from Austria and he has told me he is moving Gre-Aeg. Is the
> army in Bulgaria free to support Tun-Gre as we previously discussed? I'd
> also move Nap-Apu in preparation for taking the Adriatic in the fall. I'd
> also seriously consider a Tyr-Vie move just in case Austria happened to
> vacate in a push into Russia. I would return the favor and support you
into
> Serbia at your request.
Many thanks. I am ordering Bul to support Tun-Gre. I had planned to attack
Rum, but I can do that in the fall. I'd much rather begin our mutual
efforts now if you're so inclined.
> I'm sure your answer depends on how you think Russia will react to the
moves
> of the first year and specifically what you think his Ukranian army will
do.
> If you think he'll use it to defend Warsaw, then Sevastopol could be yours
> and we'd each build this coming year.
I do expect Russia to be on the defensive, unless he's had strong
encouragement from AI for a 3-way effort against me. My gut reaction is
that you're on the level, and I'm willing to risk it. So, I will push into
Armenia and will use Bul to support your attack.
> I understand if you feel the need to use Bulgaria to influence whatever
will
> happen in Rumania this coming year.
I can wait on Rum until this fall. Hopefull I'll be able to take either Rum
or Sev. Meanwhile, having you in Greece and possibly Vie would be most
excellent.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Russia to Turkey
Ali,
Your continued silence is troubling, but I will order
Sev S Ank-Rum this Spring. AI are planning to take Bul this
Fall, whether or not Italy orders Ion-EMed this Spring, so
you'd be well advised to accept my help.
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from England to Turkey
Ali Baba,
Ages ago, it seems, I sent you a note urging you to cooperate with Austria
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 France to Turkey
Ali Baba:
With this extra day, the Dauphin has spent some time
studying your situation. I must tell you that he is very
nervous for you. You could very easily be stabbed
visciously by Austria and Italy. If you are not careful
you could end up losing both Bulgaria and a home center.
Alarmed at this I asked him what you should do. Well, I
really did not understand it all. But it involved making
peace with Russia (which I did follow), taking Rumania
from Ankara or Bulgaria, and moving an army to Smyrna.
He said the convoy from Ankara may be best so you do not
get a unit disbanded. If this is not clear, please let
me know and I can ask the Dauphin to write it all down
for me.
I am sure that you have advisors that are equally gifted
in military strategy as the Dauphin thinks he is.
Therefore I am sure that have a great plan in mind. But
because we have a long term agreement to split Europe, I
thought it best to indulge the Dauphin and send you this
information. I felt I should error on insulting your
intelligence rather than with holding an idea which may
improve your security. I apologize in advance if the
former was true.
-- Prince Boar
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 Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
Well I guess this is where it all becomes clear. I do indeed have a "Kick
Me" sign painted squarely on my back, and you're the one wearing the boots.
I can only hope that our earlier conversations will bear fruit, and that
you're on the level regarding IT cooperation. I hope you will write to
confirm, to ease my fears if nothing else.
I have decided against the move to Armenia. Assuming that Austria moves to
Aeg, I will need to defend my home centers somehow. I am attempting a
combination that should leave me in place to attack Serbia as you suggest in
the fall, and still protect Con and Smy.
Regarding the suggestion of Tyr-Vie, I would urge an attack on Trieste
instead. If, as it seems, Austria is comfortable with AI relations, then he
may not defend it, instead attacking Bul and Rum. And if he does move to
Tri, you will surely want to cover Venice and still move to the Adriatic.
I have no doubt that the Czar is urging both you and Austria to join him to
quickly take me out. If you do, you will be left with neighbors who will
come after you eventually. Conversely, if you join with me then you will
have a secure eastern front and an ally you can trust. I will continue to
build armies and move them to places where they do not threaten Italian
interests.
I built as I did largely to demonstrate my intentions, and to show that I
will follow through as we discussed. If you instead move to attack me, I
will do whatever I can to see that Austria reaps the lion's reward from it.
I hate to make threats (and such a puny threat at that)... but I have thrown
my lot in with you, and I'm banking on your goodwill. If that goodwill
turns out not to exist, then I will have few options for survival. If it
comes to that, I will surely lose my mind and there's no telling what I
might do.
In any case, I'm cautiously optimistic that it will not come to that. My
order supporting Tun-Gre has been confirmed; that order will be there in the
move result, and I hope you take advantage of it. I look forward to hearing
from you at your earliest opportunity.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Russia
Czar Nicholas,
I'm sorry I wasn't able to reply sooner. I was out of e-mail contact due to
unexpected but unavoidable circumstances.
I see the same things on the board that you do. I'm sure you've been
writing to AI with plans for the three of you to quickly take me out. You
may hope that if Austria stabs me, I'll throw centers to you. This would
not be my reaction. Austria is too strong for you to take on by yourself,
so if you're interested in turning things around then now is the time.
Here's the bottom line. If you order Sev S Ank-Rum this turn, then I'll be
glad to switch back to RT, and will order Bul S Rum-Ser in the fall, leaving
Rum for you to move into. I realize this move might be with your fleet,
leaving Sev open for a build, but I'd have to trust you not to build in Sev.
Indeed I would hope you'd build armies to shore up your position in the
center.
What do you say? I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Ali Baba
P.S. On a personal note, I hope your wife is ok. Nothing in my life is as
important to me as my family, and I know how traumatic it can be when they
are threatened. You have my very best wishes and prayers that all will be
well.
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
Sorry I've been out of touch recently. A bad time to be away from e-mail
contact, but nothing I could avoid. In any case, down to business.
I'm beginning to believe that Russia is not so much on the ropes as we'd
like to think. I've been getting the feeling that Austria is about to
double-cross me. As was mentioned in that broadcast, I've got a "Kick Me"
sign on my back, in big red letters, and Italy just bought a new pair of
boots. So, I'm not sure how much trouble I'll be able to give Russia
myself.
This is what usually happens when a power gets "ganged up on" from the
start. Everyone starts worrying, gee, if he goes down fast that'll help
that *other* guy more than me. So things turn around. It wouldn't be far
fetched for Russia to make a comeback.
Still, I share your assessment that we'd both be better off if Russia were
to go away soon. I am reacting to events in the south at the moment, so my
options are limited. However, I've not given up on hopes of defeating the
Czar. Like you, I'm eager to keep ET relations going in a positive
direction, so I thank you for your candor. Let us keep in touch where
Russia is concerned, not to mention other events.
I will be most interested to see how things shake out in the West. I'm sure
you are as well. Hopefully the FG conflict is genuine, in which case you
should have your choice of allies.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
Sorry I've been out of touch recently. A bad time to be away from e-mail
contact, but nothing I could avoid. In any case, down to business.
I'm beginning to believe that Russia is not so much on the ropes as we'd
like to think. I've been getting the feeling that Austria is about to
double-cross me. As was mentioned in that broadcast, I've got a "Kick Me"
sign on my back, in big red letters, and Italy just bought a new pair of
boots. So, I'm not sure how much trouble I'll be able to give Russia
myself.
This is what usually happens when a power gets "ganged up on" from the
start. Everyone starts worrying, gee, if he goes down fast that'll help
that *other* guy more than me. So things turn around. It wouldn't be far
fetched for Russia to make a comeback.
Still, I share your assessment that we'd both be better off if Russia were
to go away soon. I am reacting to events in the south at the moment, so my
options are limited. However, I've not given up on hopes of defeating the
Czar. Like you, I'm eager to keep ET relations going in a positive
direction, so I thank you for your candor. Let us keep in touch where
Russia is concerned, not to mention other events.
I will be most interested to see how things shake out in the West. I'm sure
you are as well. Hopefully the FG conflict is genuine, in which case you
should have your choice of allies.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to France
Prince Boar,
Sorry I was unable to write sooner. I was away from e-mail contact due to
unexpected and unavoidable circumstances. In any case, now I'm back. A
most unfortunate time to be away, it seems.
I entered my build order based on certain assurances from Italy. You can
see for yourself where those assurances got me. I am indeed wearing a "Kick
Me" sign, and Italy's wearing the boots.
Russia proposed to me that he would support me to Rumania in exchange for RT
peace. I have responded favorably to his overture, and have ordered the
attack he suggested. If he goes through with it, then I intend to keep
things going in that direction. If you're genuinely interested in seeing
Russia recover (and what France wouldn't), then I urge you to write to
Russia and encourage him to follow through. I myself will be acting in
accordance with my promises to Russia, so he would be well-advised to do as
he's promised.
If instead things boil down to an IAR vs. T, then this whole conversation is
moot. In that case, I will surely go insane and there's no telling what I
will do. Obviously I've made a botch of things so far, but the game is
young yet and there's always time to turn things around.
I look forward to hearing any thoughts you may have.
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Germany
Freddy,
Sorry it took me so long to respond. Hope things are going well in the
west. Things are franky a mess down here.
I had hoped that I would be able to launch an early campaign against Russia,
but it seems AI had other plans. I very much fear that Austria will stab me
this turn. Also, from what I'm hearing, there seems to be a general
consensus in the West to leave Russia alone. Obviously both of these
developments are bad news for Turkey, especially when taken together.
I'll be trying to hang on down here as best I can. I urge you not to assume
Russia's done for; from where I sit, I think he's got good chances of making
a speedy recovery from his rough start.
Best of luck in the result. Let's keep in touch.
Ali Baba
Message from France to Turkey
Ali Baba:
I have written Russia as you requested. I have talked
enough with him before that I think that he would follow
through with the plan.
My babbling before on moves was that an Army in Smyrna
would allow you to cover Constantinople or Bulgaria with
the Fleet in the Black Sea. Since I do not know your
plans, it is hard to comment further. But I would guess
that Austria and Italy would move to Eme and Aeg and
Bulgaria is safe as long as it is covered. But I have no
hint at what IA might do.
-- Prince Boar
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 Russia to Turkey
> Message from Turkey to Russia in 'titleist':
> Here's the bottom line. If you order Sev S Ank-Rum this turn,
> then I'll be glad to switch back to RT, and will order Bul S Rum-Ser
> in the fall, leaving Rum for you to move into.
Consider it so ordered.
In Haste,
Nick.
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
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
Sorry I've been out of touch recently. A bad time to be away from e-mail
contact, but nothing I could avoid. In any case, down to business.
I'm beginning to believe that Russia is not so much on the ropes as we'd
like to think. I've been getting the feeling that Austria is about to
double-cross me. As was mentioned in that broadcast, I've got a "Kick Me"
sign on my back, in big red letters, and Italy just bought a new pair of
boots. So, I'm not sure how much trouble I'll be able to give Russia
myself.
This is what usually happens when a power gets "ganged up on" from the
start. Everyone starts worrying, gee, if he goes down fast that'll help
that *other* guy more than me. So things turn around. It wouldn't be far
fetched for Russia to make a comeback.
Still, I share your assessment that we'd both be better off if Russia were
to go away soon. I am reacting to events in the south at the moment, so my
options are limited. However, I've not given up on hopes of defeating the
Czar. Like you, I'm eager to keep ET relations going in a positive
direction, so I thank you for your candor. Let us keep in touch where
Russia is concerned, not to mention other events.
I will be most interested to see how things shake out in the West. I'm sure
you are as well. Hopefully the FG conflict is genuine, in which case you
should have your choice of allies.
Regards,
Ali Baba
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
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