|
|
Message from Italy to Turkey
I hate to scheme behind our Russian friends back, but....I was looking at
ways of recouping my loss in Smyrna and the thought occurred to me that
Sevastopol might be a possibility. How much do we need Russia is the
question?
What I was thinking was:
Spring: smy-arm
Fall: arm-sev; bla s arm-sev
This would allow you to take Smyrna without support giving Con freedom to do
something else (Bulgaria perhaps). Just as important though, I'd be able to
move my fleets (ion-adr; ems-ion) or attack the Austrian fleet (ems-aeg; ion
s ems-ion). Albania would be free for a retreat in case Greece were
dislodged. You'd gain Smyrna without necessarily losing Greece and I'd
replace Smy with Sev while hopefully gaining/holding Trieste.
In time, we could swap Greece for Sevastopol.
I'm sure there are some little details that need to be worked out but what
are your thoughts on that idea?
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
Your proposal is interesting, and if we had arranged it ahead of time in the
framework of IT cooperation, I probably would have gone with it. But I'll
confess I'm still in "once bitten, twice shy" mode at present, so I have
some concerns about it. It's not entirely out of line with continued AI
efforts to dismantle RT; I'd much rather see a clear indication of a
reversal of Italian intentions before acting anti-Russian.
If your concern is that I'm reluctant to give up Greece, then please realize
I'm perfectly serious about trading Gre for Smy. I've been straight with
you from the start, and I still consider honesty to be the best policy. I
believe that Turkey's power base is around the Black Sea, which is why I'm
so willing to embark on a land-based course. But given the current
circumstances, I'd be more comfortable if I were in control of when and how
to hit Sevastopol.
There are three main options that I currently favor for the spring, though
I'm still open to suggestion. The first is Smy-Alb, which gives you
pressure on Serbia and Trieste in the fall, and clearly enables your fleets
to move in the following turn. The second is Smy-Gre, Gre-Bul. However, I
expect Austria to attempt to retake Greece, so that may bounce, and we've no
way to support it. The third is Ion S Ems-Aeg, Gre-Bul, with Smy-Aeg-Gre,
Ank-Smy in the fall. This may have some advantage if Austria attacks Gre
with an army, meaning his fleet would be destroyed. Conversely, if he moves
Aeg-Gre, then you're assured Gre in the fall with Bul and Ion supporting,
although this does tie up your fleets one more turn.
I know you're eager to regain some flexibility with your fleets, and I
understand and appreciate your concerns. From my perspective, though, I
can't help but recall that you could have been in Greece last spring, and we
wouldn't be having this discussion. My fear is that you're planning to
string Austria along for the time being (or that you're trying to string me
along), and if you enter moves that might be in line with AI cooperation, it
will take that much longer to rebuild trust between us.
I'm eager for some hint of what you're planning with A Tyr. From what I've
heard from Germany, it seems you and he are in some contention about it.
The two obvious choices are to support France against Munich, or to attack
Austria. Naturally, from Turkey's perspective, an assault on Trieste would
be preferred. Also, it seems to me that Austria still considers you on his
side, and therefore is no doubt discussing options with you. Since he will
rely on coordination with your forces, it would be a great help if you would
divulge what Austria is planning. His coordination with you will surely
give us an opportunity for an effective Italian attack.
If your expressed desire for FIRT vs. EGA is genuine, then I think the best
course is to coordinate ITR efforts against Austria as quickly as possible,
so that you can build your fleet force and move it west, and so that I can
combine with Russia to push armies north against Germany. Once that's under
way, then I can look at attacking Russia within the framework of our
long-term goals. You've seen me build nothing but armies, and I think your
instincts will probably tell you I'm on the level about wanting long-term IT
friendship. But I'm also sure you can appreciate that, however weak Russia
may be, I have to consider him the only ally I've got until I see on the
board that Italy is no longer hostile.
What do you think? Let's keep discussing this, I'm eager to find a solution
we're both happy with.
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
Ok, what are you thinking for the spring move? I think we should come up
with a plan that works if Italy really switches sides, but that also
protects us if he doesn't.
What is your relationship with Germany? He seems disposed anti-Austrian,
and he seems pretty unhappy with Italy's unit in Tyrolia. If he can be
convinced to hit Vienna, at least to cut support, it would be a great help.
The obvious combination to me is Gre-Ser, Boh-Vie, Rum S Gal-Bud. This gets
you Bud unless he defends with Ser-Rum, but that seems unlikely to me. If
he orders that, it would likely be with support from Bud, which could be
cut, and even if Ser goes to Rum it gains him nothing due to Gre-Ser. The
biggest risk here is Ser S Aeg-Gre, but if Italy is on board then I'll
regain Smy and can afford to lose Gre.
The other option is to focus on getting you into Warsaw, with Boh-Vie,
Rum-Bud, Gre-Ser, Mos S Gal-War. This has the same risks, namely Bud S
Ser-Rum (in which case Gre moves to Ser), and Ser S Aeg-Gre (which I can't
do anything about anyway). The drawback is that it moves your army away
from Austria, and if Austria loses out this year he may well disband A
Warsaw anyway, allowing you to pick it up uncontested in the following year.
There are other options of course, such as Gal S Boh-Vie. However, this
isn't really along the lines of Italy's proposed FIRT vs. EGA. You could
perhaps entice Germany by promising support for Boh-Vie in the fall if you
gain Bud. Also, Germany may have other plans for Boh, such as dislodging
Tyr. I'm writing Germany today to inquire of his plans; let's touch base
should either of us hear from him, yes?
Anyway, as you suggested I'm presenting a united front to Italy. I will be
writing joint presses to try and get ITR vs. A off the ground. However, I'm
not going to really believe it until I see it.
Please write at your earliest convenience. I'm eager to hear your thoughts
on the above.
Ali
Message from Turkey to Germany
Freddy,
I'm sorry to hear of your troubles with Italy. I had hoped that the
combination of Tyr/Boh/Gal/Rum could be devastating against Austria if the
Italian could be turned. Of course, as you point out, the combination of
Tyr/Bur cannot be taken lightly.
>From your last press, I speculate that you may be planning to dislodge Tyr
soon. Is this the case? The reason I'm asking, of course, is that Boh
would be very useful against Vienna. The two obvious options are Gal S
Boh-Vie in the spring, or perhaps Boh-Vie to cut support in the spring, with
Rum S Gal-Bud, and Bud S Boh-Vie in the fall.
Anyway, as you mentioned, we should be in serious discussion. Austria
affects both our interests, and we'd be well-advised to coordinate our
efforts for our mutual benefit. I eagerly await your thoughts on the above,
or on any other topic that comes to mind.
Ali
Message from Russia to Turkey
Ali,
I'll respond to your letter when I get the chance,
but I suspect that Italy is sincere. I don't know how
closely you coordinated with Austria before S1902M, but
he hasn't moved effectively, and has not negotiated
well, either, so I suspect that Italy is frustrated
with him. Additionally, if he wanted to continue to
attack you, why lie about it? He could have just
build A Nap, had Austria support Smy and Convoyed to
Syr this Spring. He doesn't strike me as the sort
who would lie unnecessisarily. Your mileage may vary,
of course, but I don't see what he'd gain by lieing
to us at this point.
In Haste,
Nick.
Message from Turkey to France
Prince Boar,
How are things going up your way? I know how it looks on the board... but
have you had any luck on the diplomatic front? I've been hearing
interesting things from Italy. Apparently he's concerned about EG, and has
been talking about re-thinking his position. Naturally, I'm hesitant to be
so trusting the second time around. However, if he is on the level, then
he's likely been in communication with you. I know that Germany is
concerned about the combination of A Bur and A Tyr, and I'm sure that hasn't
escaped your attention either.
I don't expect you to divulge any details, nor would I want you to do so in
any case. However, I'm obviously very interested in turning Italy around if
it can be accomplished. Any hint of your communications with him, or any
diplomatic efforts on your part to get him into an FIRT vs. EGA, would be
very much appreciated.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Austria
Tamara,
> You were/are facing Italian aggression, not AI aggression.
You can't be serious! Correct me if I'm wrong here...
> Austria: Fleet Aegean Sea SUPPORT Italian Army Tunis -> Smyrna.
If that isn't AI aggression against Turkey, what is?!?
> Smyrna is of course your home center, and would be yours in any AT
alliance.
I should hope so.
> But the eternal question of who stabs their ally first, who walks the
> tightrope without a net, is not easy to answer. The Archduke believes it
> should be you, because you have both the most to gain and the least to
lose.
When it comes to gaining and losing, my only concern is to regain my home
center. Once the home centers are lost, everything is lost. Beyond that,
I'll stick with whoever sticks with me. I'm simply trying to hang on here;
stabbing anyone isn't even in it.
> Your grab of Sev will gain you a build, and Russia is neither vital to
your
> defense nor able to greatly harm you. Your defensive lines are
> well-constructed, and will not fall to a simple assault, and in fact as
part
> of an AT alliance, would be impervious once the Russian fleet is
destroyed.
My defensive lines are in a shambles. I have no way to support my current
holdings, and no way to recover my home center. In the face of continued AI
aggression, I'm in the position of simply trying to hang on. I'll admit Sev
is tempting; but it gains me nothing to rob from Peter to pay Paul.
Especially when Paul is the one who's attacking me.
> Austria, on the other hand, is incapable of taking an Italian center and
> vulnerable to not only Italy and Russia but also Germany.
Well then perhaps it's a good time to get serious about alliance with
Turkey? Trade Greece for Smyrna? That would represent a net gain for
Austria, a loss for Italy, and a wash for Turkey. But in any case, we'd
both be better off.
> Is there any hope available that we can resume our stillborn cooperation?
Absolutely. It's all up to you. As I said, all you have to do is support
Ank-Smy, and you can name your terms. You can have Greece back, I'll attack
Russia and build fleets to attack Italy. If, however, you continue to
support Italy while attacking me in Gre/Bul/Rum, then AT cooperation will be
quite impossible.
Sincerely,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
> I'll respond to your letter when I get the chance,
> but I suspect that Italy is sincere. I don't know how
> closely you coordinated with Austria before S1902M, but
> he hasn't moved effectively, and has not negotiated
> well, either, so I suspect that Italy is frustrated
> with him. Additionally, if he wanted to continue to
> attack you, why lie about it? He could have just
> build A Nap, had Austria support Smy and Convoyed to
> Syr this Spring. He doesn't strike me as the sort
> who would lie unnecessisarily. Your mileage may vary,
> of course, but I don't see what he'd gain by lieing
> to us at this point.
I agree that Italy's press seems sincere, but then again it seemed pretty
sincere when he told me he would not move his fleets my way, and that he was
attacking Austria and Greece. So, I will contiue to be cautious regarding
Italy until I've seen his cards on the table.
As for his possible advantage, I cannot rule out the possibility that it is
simply a ploy to try to learn our moves. Austria continues to write me in
an effort to get me to attack Sev and to learn what it is I'm planning.
Certifiable bullshit, all of it (or so it appears), and it hasn't been
working. Perhaps the Italian is now trying his hand. Austria's in a tough
spot, and his best hope may be to take the guesswork out of it. So, I'm
strongly opposed to revealing any more to Italy than is absolutely
necessary, for this turn at least.
If Italy does turn out to be on the level, then it creates some strange
bedfellows. If we assume he wants FIRT vs. EGA, then that means you
attacking Germany. However, Germany at least appears to be a good candiate
to cooperate with you against Austria. If Italy is lying, then we should
embrace Germany with both arms if he'll help against Austria. If Italy's on
the level, though, then the German question could turn into a bit of a
tight-rope that must be walked with great care.
Write when you get a chance,
Ali
Message from Russia to Turkey
My Dear Ali,
>what are you thinking for the spring move?
I see two possibilities, play cautious, wait to
make sure Italy is with us, and take War in the Fall,
or assume that Roberto will order Tyl-Tri, Smy-Alb,
and we try to take Ser, Bud, War, and perhaps even Vie.
>What is your relationship with Germany?
He's worried about IA at the moment, but if
Italy attacks Austria, I expect that he will rapidly
become interested in War and StP, himself.
>If he can be convinced to hit Vienna, at least to
>cut support, it would be a great help.
If he agrees to the Fleet moves I've suggested,
I'll propose that he hit Vie, and let you know what
he says.
>There are other options, such as Gal S Boh-Vie.
I see no reason to support Germany into a Center
before I'm up to six Units myself, and at that point,
I won't have to. 8-)
>I will try to get ITR vs. A off the ground. However, I'm not going to
>really believe it until I see it.
As I said in my previous letter, I don't see that
Italy gains anything by lying to us about RIFT vs. AGE,
but we'll see for sure this Spring.
In Alliance,
Nick.
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
> I see two possibilities, play cautious, wait to
> make sure Italy is with us, and take War in the Fall,
> or assume that Roberto will order Tyl-Tri, Smy-Alb,
> and we try to take Ser, Bud, War, and perhaps even Vie.
>
> >What is your relationship with Germany?
>
> He's worried about IA at the moment, but if
> Italy attacks Austria, I expect that he will rapidly
> become interested in War and StP, himself.
You're probably right. I wouldn't bet the farm on Tyr-Tri yet, though.
Germany seems annoyed at Tyr, and apparently Italy has refused to move it.
If Italy wants to help France, he may use it to support Bur-Mun. Italy has
certainly not promised me he'll use Tyr to attack Austria; it might be a
good idea to press him on the issue a bit. I myself have asked pointedly
what he intends for Tyr.
> >If he can be convinced to hit Vienna, at least to
> >cut support, it would be a great help.
>
> If he agrees to the Fleet moves I've suggested,
> I'll propose that he hit Vie, and let you know what
> he says.
Likewise, I've written him to inquire about it. Let's compare notes when we
hear from him.
> >There are other options, such as Gal S Boh-Vie.
>
> I see no reason to support Germany into a Center
> before I'm up to six Units myself, and at that point,
> I won't have to. 8-)
Agreed.
It seems we don't have much to go on until we've heard more from Italy and
Germany. I will write as soon as anything develops. The deadline is
tomorrow, so I hope we can keep up the dialoge as much as possible and come
up with the best plan we can.
Regards,
Ali
Message from Russia to Turkey
Ali,
> Austria continues to write me in an effort to get
> me to attack Sev and to learn what it is I'm planning.
> Certifiable bullshit, all of it (or so it appears),
Yes, I've been getting similar letters about the
German threat. My response has been, 'Move War-Sil,
and we'll talk.'
> Perhaps the Italian is now trying his hand.
> I'm strongly opposed to revealing any more to Italy
> than is absolutely necessary, for this turn at least.
Oh, definitely! Tyl-Tri, Smy-Alb, Nap-TyS is
all Italy need to know about RIFT vs. AGE this Spring.
Nick.
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
By the way, I wanted to state for the record that I have not told Russia of
your proposal, nor do I intend to do so. Russia tells me he believes your
proposals are sincere, and I'm content to keep it that way. Looking at the
board, I can see some tactical advantages to what you suggest. After having
set myself up as a patsy in '02, though, I'm determined not to do it again,
as I'm sure you can appreciate. So, I had promised myself I would not take
you at your word until I saw your moves revealed.
However, it's also true that sometimes when I've been more trusting than I
ought to be, it has payed off handsomely. So I guess I won't rule it out,
though I have to say it's still my least favourite option.
What would really help would be to learn more about your motivations.
Specifically, how does Bla S Arm-Sev fit in with your proposal of FIRT vs.
EGA? How do you see things shaking out in the long run? How can we use
German forces against Austria, while setting up Germany for attack from
Russia? When would you be willing to carry out an attack against Austria
yourself?
Write when you get a chance.
Ali Baba
Message from Italy to Russia and Turkey
Gentlemen,
I have not yet heard from Austria so I do not know his plans to date. I've
started the ball rolling by asking him if he wants/needs support into
Greece. Typically, I hear from Austria on the day of the deadline. I think
he uses the first day to figure out what he wants to do and then the second
day to talk me into doing what he wants me to do.
It may surprise you to know that, other than the fleet orders, I have not
known what Austria's orders were going to be. He hasn't in the past shared
them with me. I've made some guesses/assumptions but I haven't been any
more correct than the two of you.
I suspect, with the new board position, I will have a good idea of the AEG
and VIE orders and possibly SER but I highly doubt I will know any more than
you regarding WAR/BUD.
I will share what I know when I have more information and that should help
solidify our moves this spring.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to Turkey
>Message from Turkey to Russia in 'titleist':
>
>I agree that Italy's press seems sincere, but then again it seemed pretty
>sincere when he told me he
>would not move his fleets my way, and that he was
>attacking Austria and Greece.
My belief in Italy's sincerity isn't based on
his press, though. Telling you that you were safe
to attack Russia and build Armies set you up for
the Lepanto. Lying to us at this point, doesn't
set us up for anything that I can see, though,
unless he leaks our plans to Austria, and he can't
do that since we're not going to tell him our plans.
>Germany at least appears to be a good candiate
>to cooperate with you against Austria.
Yes, but even Fredd admits that that is a very
short-term deal. He'll help me cripple Austria this
year, while England gains position against France,
then he'll attack StP and War.
Nick.
Message from Austria to Turkey
>> You were/are facing Italian aggression, not AI aggression.
>
> You can't be serious! Correct me if I'm wrong here...
>
>> Austria: Fleet Aegean Sea SUPPORT Italian Army Tunis -> Smyrna.
>
> If that isn't AI aggression against Turkey, what is?!?
That was an attempt to convert the Smy army into a fleet.
Note that I didn't quote back to you your Bulgarian support of an
Italian assault on Greece. If you want to argue about who is more
wronged, we can do that, but I'd rather discuss how we can change
direction in favor of cooperation.
> When it comes to gaining and losing, my only concern is to regain my home
> center. Once the home centers are lost, everything is lost. Beyond that,
> I'll stick with whoever sticks with me. I'm simply trying to hang on here;
> stabbing anyone isn't even in it.
Italy is in your home center. The only Austrian move which is even
remotely anti-Turkey was the support you quoted above, and that move and
its desired outcome (turn the useless army into a fleet) were described
ahead of time.
> My defensive lines are in a shambles. I have no way to support my
> current holdings, and no way to recover my home center. In the face
> of continued AI aggression, I'm in the position of simply trying to
> hang on. I'll admit Sev is tempting; but it gains me nothing to rob
> from Peter to pay Paul. Especially when Paul is the one who's
> attacking me.
If you insist on fighting two enemies, you'll probably achieve that. Is
that your wisest course?
> Well then perhaps it's a good time to get serious about alliance with
> Turkey? Trade Greece for Smyrna? That would represent a net gain for
> Austria, a loss for Italy, and a wash for Turkey. But in any case, we'd
> both be better off.
You won't be able to hold Greece, and you can't take Smyrna back without
my help. Without your help, I end up chopped up by Germany and Italy.
Yes, we'd both be better off. But I cannot gain by acting against Italy
while Russia is concentrating on killing me. I need Russia crippled,
and only you are in position to do that.
> Absolutely. It's all up to you. As I said, all you have to do is
> support Ank-Smy, and you can name your terms. You can have Greece
> back, I'll attack Russia and build fleets to attack Italy. If,
> however, you continue to support Italy while attacking me in
> Gre/Bul/Rum, then AT cooperation will be quite impossible.
Impasse, then. We had a good chance to turn Smy into a fleet last turn,
but you chose not to. You took one of my centers, I didn't even attack
any of yours, and indeed left Rumania alone so that you could pick up
Sev without giving up Rum. You prefer to sink with your RT alliance
rather than accept the perfectly seaworthy lifeboat I'm offering you.
I regret your decision, and will eagerly watch the results for evidence
you've changed your mind. I think that if things continue as they are
going, Austria-Hungary will be eliminated no later than two years after
Turkey. But I'm not willing to make that two years before Turkey, which
seems to be your goal.
Tamara, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Germany to Turkey
Ali:
Quick question, did you suggest that Russia disband F SEV?
I have suggested RUM S GAL - BUD while BOH-VIE to Russia. I believe
that we should be attacking, while we have the advantage of position.
It's my belief that France is trying to turn Russia against you. In
effect forming FAIR vs GET. Certainly it's already FAI VS GET. The
wild card is Russia. Do you think that he'll turn against you? I'm in
a position to help him, and so his press should be designed to give me a
warm and fuzzy feeling. It doesn't. But that could be caused by my two
fleets. I suppose that I'd feel the same way if I were him. He's
probably assuming that I might help him in WAR or elsewhere, but at the
same time helping myself to STP. I certainly would consider that. Just
not this year.
I'm waiting to hear back from Russia about our attack. Let's hope it
goes well.
Fredd
Message from France to all
Spring 1903 Symposium on Philosophy, Europe and
Everything.
- by Prince Xavier Boar
[This is Stuart Scott here. Trey Wingo lost this job
because of his relationship to Ivy Wingo. It is not wise
to be related to someone who betrays the Dauphin. He got
the Axe, had a date with Mr. Guillotine, you get the
picture. After carefully consulting my family tree, and
knowing that I am not related to any of the leaders in
Europe, I accepted this job. I could not resists after
reading all Trey's postcards describing the beautiful
babes.]
[Well it is time to play the uncensored parts of Prince
Boar's speech and add my witty commentary.]
My dear French people, as you all know, things have not
gone well for France. We are under attack from both our
Northern and Eastern Borders. For now the South appears
to be safe, but the Italians may be mustering for war as
well. Our sources tell us of their expanding navy. But
I implore you to keep your hope. The Dauphin and I will
do all that we can to make certain that our betrayers do
not benefit from their treachery.
We shall Protect in Paris, and Battle in Burgundy. We
will Punish in Picardy and berate in Brest. We shall
Garrison in Gascony, Beset in Belgium, Ravage in Ruhr,
Malign in Munich, and Maul in Marseilles. We will
Persecute in Portugal and Skirmish in Spain. Our Navies
will Maraude in the Mid-Atlantic Ocean, Nip at the North
Atlantic Ocean, Invade the Irish Sea, and Engage in the
English Channel. Our people shall never give up!
[Quite the big talker and a guy who knows how to use a
Thesaurus. Perhaps he can toss it at Frederick when he
arrives in Paris at the head of his armies. Next he gets
into some private French strategy, if you call looking up
nasty words that start with the letter 'I' a strategy. I
assure you that no one discussed the color of the
Dauphin's underwear this time. But the rumor has it that
the Dauphin sent a pair of Hot Pink ones with Bats and
Mediterranean Blue with Speckled Eggs to Diploman and Boy
Gambit respectively.]
Philosophy
A neighbor has suggested that France is being attacked
because we were too likeable. That we should have
purposely been less likeable to not make ourselves a
target. The irony is that this neighbor is more likeable
than we are. But it is an interesting philosophy
nevertheless. It is a philosophy, however, that I must
reject. Instead I choose to follow the personal
philosophy of the great Marcus Aurelius. He is a man of
my own heart in that he was both a Caesar of Roman and a
wise stoic philosopher. To him, the wise man "will not
go against the divinity that is planted in his breast;
but rather he will preserve his deepest inner self in
tranquillity. He will, above all, preserve his own
autonomy and integrity, and not let anything alienate him
from himself". Words that I can live by. If I fail
France by being who I am, then I must apologize. But I
shall not fail myself by being myself.
[He may not fail himself, but we wonder if he is full of
himself. He is deluding himself that he is likeable. He
can't seem to convince a soul to do the simplest things.
Maybe we should get that Sport Center Advertisement team
over here to work on his image.]
[Well, thankfully that is all folk. Until next year.
Stuart]
Message from Turkey to Germany
Fredd,
> Quick question, did you suggest that Russia disband F SEV?
Actually I didn't. Although I pushed him early in the game for a way to get
rid of it, in the end I thought it better to let him make the decision
without any attempted Turkish influence. I think he would have chosen
differently had Austria retreated to Ukraine. I also think he feels secure
in the knowledge that given the AI alliance, he and I must stick together or
die. So he probably feels I'm the least likely of his neighbors to attack
him. Indeed, given my defensive needs I currently have no plan to attack
him.
> I have suggested RUM S GAL - BUD while BOH-VIE to Russia. I believe
> that we should be attacking, while we have the advantage of position.
I suggested that to him as well. The big question mark was whether you'd be
up for attacking Vie. If you're on board with that plan, then this is
excellent news indeed. I will further encourage Russia on this matter.
> It's my belief that France is trying to turn Russia against you. In
> effect forming FAIR vs GET. Certainly it's already FAI VS GET. The
> wild card is Russia. Do you think that he'll turn against you?
Unless something drastic and unexpected happens this year, France will be
clutching at any straw he can get. To answer your question, no I don't
think he'll turn against me, at least not in the near term. He and I have
exchanged a great deal of press lately, as you might imagine, and there is a
sense that we are in this boat together to deal with the AI crisis. Once
that crisis is over, and if it is resolved in our favor, then who can say
what he will do? But in the near term, I have a reasonable level of
confidence that Russia will be a man of his word.
I will admit that Sev is tempting, and it's clear to me that if I end up
going against Russia, I'd be better off doing it before he gets a chance to
grow back. But common sense tells me that lacking any other ally, attacking
him now would be suicide. This is no doubt why Austria has repeatedly
insisted that I should attack Sev; a resumption of RT conflict at this time
would give AI a cakewalk.
> I'm in
> a position to help him, and so his press should be designed to give me a
> warm and fuzzy feeling. It doesn't. But that could be caused by my two
> fleets. I suppose that I'd feel the same way if I were him. He's
> probably assuming that I might help him in WAR or elsewhere, but at the
> same time helping myself to STP. I certainly would consider that. Just
> not this year.
He has indeed expressed some concern that you might agree to help him in the
short term, but that in the long run you'll attack him in the north either
way. I think he expects you to attack Warsaw for yourself, rather than help
him back into it. If you were to facilitate his recovery of Warsaw, I'm
sure that Russia would warm up considerably. In any case, Austria seems to
be enemy #1 while Warsaw is occupied, and the Czar did not object to my
suggestion of Bud S Boh-Vie in the fall if he should take Bud in the spring.
Anyway, I believe he would work with you in the near-term. Whether or not
conflict broke out between you afterward would of course depend on you and
Russia, and also to a degree what ultimately happens in the south between me
and Italy.
> I'm waiting to hear back from Russia about our attack. Let's hope it
> goes well.
I will write him again on the matter. Let's touch base again tomorrow if
possible, to confirm everything and compare notes.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Russia to Italy and Turkey
Gentlemen,
> Message from Italy to Russia and Turkey in 'titleist':
>
> I have not yet heard from Austria so I do not know his plans to date.
> It may surprise you to know that, other than the fleet orders, I have
> not known what Austria's orders were going to be. He hasn't in the
> past shared them with me.
That doesn't surprise me, actually. You might offer to coordinate
Tyl with Vie this Spring, though, and see if it generates any Army info.
(What do you plan to do with Tyl this Spring, anyway?)
> I suspect, with the new board position, I will have a good idea of the AEG
> and VIE orders and possibly SER but I highly doubt I will know any more
> than you regarding WAR/BUD.
Partial information is better than no information at all, and I thank
you in
advance for any help you can provide.
In Alliance,
Nick.
Message from Russia to Turkey
My Good Ali,
Germany has offered to order Boh-Vie, so that we can take Bud this
Spring. My inclination is to take it since we can't be as sure of his
support
if Italy attacks Austria as we hope he will. What do you think?
Nick
Message from France to Turkey
Ali Baba:
Thank you for your words of encouragement. I noticed
your army build. Does this signal peace between you and
Italy? Something has to give in the south if you are to
be prepared for the EG alliance that is growing and
coming to a country near you. :-) France is happy to
join which ever triple appears in the south, but it is
likely that it will be IRT. Of course, I am a bit of an
outsider so I do not know all the facts.
Any thing that you can do to encourage Russia to annoy
England would be very much appreciated. It is also in
your best long term interest to not see England grow too
quickly. Help him get a build if you can.
I may not have directly answered your questions in your
letter to me. I apologize if I could not remember all of
them. I left my copy of your not in my home and have to
no access to them in the castle. If I missed something
important to you, please repeat it and I will answer it
right away.
-- Prince Boar
Message from Russia to Turkey
Ali,
The other possibility that I see is Ank S Bla-Con,
Gre S Con-Bul, Rum-Ser, which is a strong set of moves for
you. The problem I see with it is, assuming that Italy
orders Smy-Alb, and I think he will, then I doubt we can
count on German support in the Fall, which makes taking
War doubtful. Hopefully, I'll hear something from GIA this
morning to firm up my thoughts. I'll keep you informed,
and trust that you will do the same.
In Friendship, and Alliance,
Nick.
Message [from France] to all
BG> Holey Underoos Diploman. What a nice gift from the Dauphin!
DM> Yes it was. I will wear mine tonight, after I take off my costume. I do
hope that France is not trying to buy us with this gift.
BG> Absolutely Diploman. We must remain impartial observers in our vigil to
bring the betrayers to justice!
DM> Speaking of which, the alliances stayed pretty steady this season.
BG> I agree. Next year could be more interesting though. Say, do you want to
go model our new undies?
DM> Sure, why not. Let's get out of here.
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
I'm entering my order for Rum S Gal-Bud. Given that Germany is on board for
this combination, I don't think we should pass up the opportunity. Just the
fact of the three of us coordinating our efforts in this fashion should reap
political rewards, let alone getting you into Bud. I've also got Bla S Con,
Con S Ank-Smy. I think Aeg-Bul is unlikely, and Ser-Bul might also mean
Gre-Ser, so I think I'm safe leaving Bul open for a possible retreat; I
can't afford to see A Gre destroyed.
Germany's press to me was mainly to push the Gal-Bud combination, to inquire
if I trusted you not to turn on me, and whether I thought you would work
with him. I replied that I did (to both questions), but that you probably
feared German attack shortly thereafter. I implied that his helping you
back into Warsaw would go a long way to improve relations.
I asked France if Italy had approached him on an FIRT; he replied that he
would be glad to join any triple coming out of the south, and he asked me to
encourage you to hassle England. He dodged the question of whether or not
he's been in contact with Italy. It may be that he simply wants to keep his
relations with Italy secret, if they've cooked up an attack on Munich.
I'm really looking forward to hearing some Italian press today. I'll be
most interested in what he has to say. I sincerely hope your optimism about
Smy-Alb is well-founded.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
Sorry for writing at the last minute. I meant to send a letter yesterday,
but time got away from me. Anyway, I'd like to touch base.
I'm hearing some strange things from Italy, but at this moment I truly don't
know what to expect from him. My current moves continue my pro-Russian,
anti-AI stance. However, if some of the talk floating around comes to
fruition, it could make for some strange bedfellows. If Russian
associations don't work out in the long run, I'd be better off hitting him
before he has a chance to grow back.
Unfortunately, I still don't know what to expect in the north, save what I
see on the board. It seems you and Germany have a pretty solid alliance,
which speaks well for both of you. An EGT end game would certainly provide
us both with interesting opportunities. Any advice, thoughts or words of
wisdom from your perspective would be very much appreciated.
In confidence,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to France
Prince Boar,
I have been, and will continue to, encourage Russian pressure in the north.
Unfortunately, he is quite unable to apply any pressure against England just
now, but if he can grow back, it's certainly possible.
The main purpose of my letter was to inquire whether you believe Italy may
be re-considering his position and his anti-Turkish efforts. He has sent me
some talk of forging FIRT, claiming concern about EG. If he's serious about
it, then he must surely have been in communication with you. What I'm
hoping for is some hint as to whether this might be so, or if you think
Italy will stay on his present course.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Italy to Russia and Turkey
I've heard from Austria. He has suggested Ion-Alb with an attack on Greece
in the fall. As I thought, no mention of what his armies would do. I will
continue to press him for further information.
> (What do you plan to do with Tyl this Spring, anyway?)
If I knew, I'd tell you. :)
My problem with moving to Trieste in the spring is, there is a high
percentage that Austria would kick me out in the fall and nothing would be
gained. If I had an unbreakable support, I'd be more comfortable in making
the move in the spring. As far as I can tell, only the ADR quaifies which
means I wouldn't be able to convoy to ALB. Lots of options but I still
don't know which is best.
Turkey has offered to swap SMY for GRE and that's the approach I'm taking
right now. The difficult part is, if I make any moves that look like I'm in
cahoots with Turkey, Austria will be tipped-off and it would be virtually
impossible for me to "sneak" into Trieste in the fall which, of course,
means I should move in the spring and we've come full circle to the
paragraph above.
Is everybody's head spinning yet? :)
Do these moves make any sense:
gal-bud
gre-ser
rum s gal-bud
bla s rum
con-bul
ank-smy
smy-eas-ion-alb
tyr-tri
The hope would be that Budapest would be dislodged without a retreat option.
I'm not certain, but if that happened, I think all of Austria's units could
be attacked in the fall breaking any support he may have to re-capture what
he lost in the spring. There is a possibility that Greece would not have a
retreat if attacked but given Austria's concern about a retreat to Albania,
I tend to believe him when he suggested a fall attack.
I welcome your comments.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
Here is what know or at least believe.
France is trying to orchestrate an FIAR alliance against EGT.
Russia still dislikes Austria and is trying to get German help against
Austria. Germany is worried about Austria and wants some cooperation with
Russia, but the two of them, Germany and Russia, are having trouble
agreeing what to do with the three northern fleets.
Italy and Germany are having words over Tyrolia.
Austria has been quiet.
Italy has been cryptic.
I have reminded Russia that he only has one person he can trust and that is
Turkey. His destruction of the southern fleet instead of his northern
fleet is a good indication of where he stood at the time. I pointed out
that if he believes that IA are solid, then he would be crazy to betray
you. AI would assign Turkish spoils to Italy and Austria would go after
Russia. Why is Austria already in Warsaw, for example?
In short, AI is still solid, so RT have to remain solid.
My self interest in all of this? I think it is obvious. It will take me
so long to get a single center from France that I don't want anyone, not
Austria, not Italy, not Germany, to get up any head of steam while I am
inching along.
Yours,
Ivy
>Ivy,
>
>Sorry for writing at the last minute. I meant to send a letter yesterday,
>but time got away from me. Anyway, I'd like to touch base.
>
>I'm hearing some strange things from Italy, but at this moment I truly don't
>know what to expect from him. My current moves continue my pro-Russian,
>anti-AI stance. However, if some of the talk floating around comes to
>fruition, it could make for some strange bedfellows. If Russian
>associations don't work out in the long run, I'd be better off hitting him
>before he has a chance to grow back.
>
>Unfortunately, I still don't know what to expect in the north, save what I
>see on the board. It seems you and Germany have a pretty solid alliance,
>which speaks well for both of you. An EGT end game would certainly provide
>us both with interesting opportunities. Any advice, thoughts or words of
>wisdom from your perspective would be very much appreciated.
>
>In confidence,
>
>Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
What do you think of Italy's press?
> gal-bud
> gre-ser
> rum s gal-bud
> bla s rum
> con-bul
> ank-smy
> smy-eas-ion-alb
> tyr-tri
Yet another vote for Rum S Gal-Bud. I have to admit his press was all I had
hoped for. However, with his proposed moves I'm not protected against Aeg S
Smy-Con, EMS-Smy. I also couldn't help but notice his suggestion of Bla S
Rum, which is clearly not needed since both Ser and Bud will be cut. I can
only assume Italy gave this combination some serious thought, and I find it
hard to believe he wouldn't have caught that.
So I'd rather stick with Bla S Con, Con S Ank-Smy, since I believe Austria
will attack Greece in the spring, not the fall. However I don't want to say
that overtly to Italy, since it implies that Bul will be left open.
Am I being too paranoid here? I welcome your thoughts.
Ali
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
Thanks for your quick reply. It closely matches what I'm hearing. At
least, I've heard rumors that France is floating the FIAR, and also FITR.
FIAR would be difficult with Austria in Warsaw, and also given Russia's
disband. I do expect Russia to attack Austria this turn. But FITR is also
strange, especially given potential GR cooperation against Austria. Oddly,
it seems to me that GR are willing to cooperate with each other for now,
despite the fact that they both seem to anticipate conflict afterward.
So, as I said, strange bedfellows.
Most of the others don't seem to share you pessimism regardin your chances
in France. However, I think you're right that progress in France could be
slow. Be that as it may, Italy might be feeling that if he continues on his
present course, he'll have no say in what happens to France one way or the
other. Part of his reason for moving to Tyr, or so he said, was to
influence the F/G balance of power. Whether he means to ultimately support
France or attack him remains unclear.
One thing most people seem to be banking on is the strength of the EG
alliance. A rock-solid alliance is often perceived as a real threat, for
good reason. If indeed your progress against France is slow, and if indeed
Germany embarks on a southern campaign, Germany might start to present
better opportunities for English expansion, or might start to outpace
English growth. Is your alliance as strong as everyone assumes, and would
you stay the course against France in such a scenario?
I'm not asking you to say more than you feel comfortable with, and I realize
much of what I write is pure speculation. But I enjoy your press for the
simple reason that I don't feel I need to wade through the BS, which I
greatly appreciate. I look forward to hearing your thoughts whenever you
get a chance.
Best regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Italy to Turkey
>
> What would really help would be to learn more about your motivations.
> Specifically, how does Bla S Arm-Sev fit in with your
> proposal of FIRT vs. EGA?
It doesn't. We would only do such a move if we didn't need/want Russia.
He's a weak partner right now militarily and I see no reason to believe he
will last thru the mid-game. It would be better for IT if we controlled
those centers before Germany.
> How do you see things shaking out in the long run?
I would forsee an IT vs EG shaping up. TG with armies fighting for control
of the center and IE with fleets fighting for control of the MAO. Whomever
broke thru first (or got the other to stab his partner) would gain the
advantage.
> How can we use German forces against Austria, while
> setting up Germany for attack from Russia?
I don't have an answer to that question. Russia has stated to me on more
than one occassion that he is unwilling to attack Germany until he controls
Warsaw again. A reasonable argument.
> When would you be willing to carry out an attack
> against Austria yourself?
>
At any time given the correct circumstances. See my previous letter. What
I don't want to do is stab Austria and not gain a build out of the deal.
Stabbing requires the loss of Smyrna so I'd have to get two in return.
Greece and Trieste would be fine but I'd like to see you get a build out of
the deal as well and that would mean you'd have to take something from
Austria (Ser) or Russia (Sev). I understand your reluctance to agree to
Smy-Arm so I'm working on other options as per my last message. Black Sea
moving to Sevastopol would have similar effects but your fleet is overworked
as it is as the sole support for Rumania.
I look forward to your analysis.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to Turkey
Ali,
>What do you think of Italy's press?
>
> > gal-bud
> > gre-ser
> > rum s gal-bud
> > bla s rum
> > con-bul
> > ank-smy
> > smy-eas-ion-alb
> > tyr-tri
>
>Yet another vote for Rum S Gal-Bud.
Not at all unreasonable.
>with his proposed moves I'm not protected against Aeg S Smy-Con, EMS-Smy.
>I also couldn't help but
>notice his suggestion of Bla S Rum, which is clearly not needed since both
>Ser and Bud will be cut. I can only assume Italy gave this combination
>some serious thought, and I find it hard to believe
>he wouldn't have caught that.
Hmmmm, well there is the, "focus on the attacking
Units, and then support with those behind the lines",
theory. Bla-Con is more reasonable, though.
>I'd rather stick with Bla S Con, Con S Ank-Smy,
>since I believe Austria will attack Greece in
>the spring, not the fall
The problem with the Spring attack on Gre is that
Aeg S Ser-Gre let's Gre retreat to Alb, and with
Con-Bul, you have a 3 Army attack on Gre, or Ser, or
2 Army attacks on Ser and Bud in the Fall. Ser S Aeg-Gre
is a little better, since it doesn't leave Ser open,
but the retreat to Alb would still cause him grief.
>Am I being too paranoid here? I welcome your thoughts.
A little too paranoid, perhaps. 8-) Everyone is
saying that Austria has been very quiet since builds,
so it seems unlikely that AI have concocted an
elaborate scheme to fool you. If I was Austria, my
inclination would be towards Vie S Bud, Bud S Ser,
War-Gal, Ser S Aeg-Bul/SC followed by an attack on
Gre or Rum in the Fall. If your willing to risk
Austria taking Bul, Bla S Con, Con S Ank-Smy, or
Bla-Con, Ank S Con-Smy is fine. Let's go with
Rum S Gal-Bud, though.
Nick.
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
Thank you for writing. I was very much looking forward to hearing from you.
> We would only do such a move if we didn't need/want Russia.
> He's a weak partner right now militarily and I see no reason to believe he
> will last thru the mid-game. It would be better for IT if we controlled
> those centers before Germany.
I concur. It's also clear that if I'm going to attack him, this year would
be a good time to do so. If Austria supports Aeg-Gre this turn, then
Con-Bla-Sev in the fall might do the trick.
> I would forsee an IT vs EG shaping up. TG with armies fighting for
control
> of the center and IE with fleets fighting for control of the MAO.
Whomever
> broke thru first (or got the other to stab his partner) would gain the
> advantage.
This certainly works for me. I think in such a scenario, it would be far
more likely that England would attack Germany, who would surely have his
back turned to him. If things go as I hope, you and I will both be too
strong to invite the stab, and we'll have clear and defensible lines between
us, prohibiting any IT stab temptations.
> > How can we use German forces against Austria, while
> > setting up Germany for attack from Russia?
>
> I don't have an answer to that question. Russia has stated to me on more
> than one occassion that he is unwilling to attack Germany until he
controls
> Warsaw again. A reasonable argument.
Indeed. From what I'm hearing, it seems Germany and Russia are tentatively
discussing cooperation against Austria, although both seem to expect GR
conflict immediately afterward.
> > When would you be willing to carry out an attack
> > against Austria yourself?
> >
>
> At any time given the correct circumstances. See my previous letter.
What
> I don't want to do is stab Austria and not gain a build out of the deal.
> Stabbing requires the loss of Smyrna so I'd have to get two in return.
> Greece and Trieste would be fine but I'd like to see you get a build out
of
> the deal as well and that would mean you'd have to take something from
> Austria (Ser) or Russia (Sev). I understand your reluctance to agree to
> Smy-Arm so I'm working on other options as per my last message. Black Sea
> moving to Sevastopol would have similar effects but your fleet is
overworked
> as it is as the sole support for Rumania.
Actually, for this turn at least support of Rum won't be needed, since
Gre-Ser, Gal-Bud cuts any support against Rum. My concern is that if
Austria orders Ser S Aeg-Gre this turn, and I move Con-Bul, then my army in
Greece would be destroyed. I also had planned to order in such a way as to
protect myself against an AI attack, just in case, perhaps with Bla S Con,
Con S Ank-Smy. In any case, your proposal of Tyr-Tri, Smy-Alb was music to
my ears.
The best result would be if Gre were dislodged from Aeg this turn, then
retreats to Bul. This gives you Gre in the fall, with Bul/Ion S Alb-Gre,
Rum S Bud, Bud S Tri, Con-Bla-Sev. Even if Austria doesn't make this
attack, then Gre-Bul, Ion S Alb-Gre should work with Rum-Ser, EMS-Aeg to cut
Austrian supports.
I'm optimistic that Germany may attack Vie this turn, in which case Russia
will gain Budapest. So, I think you'll be pretty secure in Tri in the fall,
as I see no reason why Russia wouldn't give you the needed support. Or,
Rum-Ser, Bud-Vie (or Boh-Vie) serves the same purpose. If all goes as
planned, Austria's A Bud will be destroyed in the spring.
Russia is pushing for Con-Bul, Ank S Bla-Con, no doubt due to his
vulnerability in Sevastopol. My current orders are Gre-Ser, Rum S Gal-Bud,
Bla S Con, Con S Ank-Smy, though I've not yet decided for sure what to do in
Turkey/Bul. I've already revealed much more of my thoughts to you than I
had promised to the paranoid ranting voices in the back of my head. I have
a sense that this is a crucial juncture, but I'm still not convinced of the
best course.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the above. Please write at your
earliest convenience.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
Is there any way you can convince Austria to make his attack on Gre in the
spring? He's clearly worried about my retreat to Alb; you could claim that
you don't want your fleet sitting in Alb in the fall, and that with Ion-Alb
in the spring, that's all he needs to get my army out of there. Just a
thought.
Ali
Message from Turkey to Italy and Russia
Gentlemen,
I am greatly encouraged by Italy's suggestion of Tyr-Tri, Smy-Alb, and I
concur in general with his proposed combination. My only reservation is
that if I move to Bul, and Gre is dislodged, then my army will be destroyed.
I had also planned to protect my home centers against the event of continued
AI attacks. So I cannot commit specifically to how Bla, Con and Ank will
move; but I do agree to order Gre-Ser, Rum S Gal-Bud.
Whatever happens, I'm confident that we'll be able to cut any Austrian
support against Trieste, or else possibly support the unit directly from Bud
if Russia's attack succeeds. I also agree to help Italy into Greece, in
return for his withdrawal from Smyrna. I am confident that with the three
of us working together, Austria can be destroyed quickly, and all three of
us will benefit.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Italy to Turkey
>
> Is there any way you can convince Austria to make his attack
> on Gre in the
> spring? He's clearly worried about my retreat to Alb; you
> could claim that
> you don't want your fleet sitting in Alb in the fall, and
> that with Ion-Alb
> in the spring, that's all he needs to get my army out of
> there. Just a
> thought.
>
I will try. Do you prefer Aeg-Gre or Ser-Gre? I think it would be fairly
difficult to convince him of the latter.
Roberto
ps: give me a few more minutes to digest your previous message
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
> I will try. Do you prefer Aeg-Gre or Ser-Gre? I think it would be fairly
> difficult to convince him of the latter.
Many thanks. I very much prefer Aeg-Gre, since it gives opportunity for
Con-Sev in the fall.
> ps: give me a few more minutes to digest your previous message
No problem. Write when you get a chance.
Ali
Message from Turkey to Germany and Russia
Gentlemen,
I'm just writing to confirm the discussions I've had with each of you. I
have ordered Gre-Ser, Rum S Gal-Bud. I am counting on Gal-Bud, Boh-Vie, as
per our conversations. The only way this can be defeated is with Ser-Rum,
which I'm not expecting. Once Russia is in Bud, then I see no reason why
Bud S Boh-Vie wouldn't work in the fall.
Please write at once if anything has changed.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
Your assesment seems pretty sound. I agree, it's looking more and more like
Italy will come through. Thank you for putting up with my paranoia (which I
haven't entirely lost, yet).
I do think Austria's nervous; his latest press to me sounded much less
cocky, and I think his nerves are getting frayed. In any case, it's looking
pretty good for a quick take-down of Austria. With so many people talking
about Gre-Ser, Rum S Gal-Bud, though, I guess it's possible Austria might
catch wind of it and order Ser-Rum to cut support. But it seems unlikely.
I'm still not sure what I'll do in Turkey/Bulgaria, but it will either be
Con-Bul, Ank S Bla-Con or Bla S Con, Con S Ank-Smy. Hopefully you'll be in
Bud this turn, and the tide will truly have turned.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Austria
Tamara,
Sorry, I didn't mean to hit a nerve or piss you off there. The bottom line
is, we're both in a bit of a tough spot, and we could both help each other
out. My concerns are the AI fleets off my shores and the Italian army in my
home center. Your concern is RT pressure against your own home center and
in the Balkans.
My attacking Sevastopol would solve your problems, and would make Turkey
stronger overall. But I must have at least something from you, to alleviate
my above-listed concerns, before I can go through with it. Obviously, my
preference is for Aeg S Ank-Smy. Failing that, though, if you would at
least withdraw your fleet from Aeg (and no I don't mean to Bul), then it
would be a step in the right direction.
Ali Baba
Message from France to Turkey
Ali:
I sincerely believe that Italy will turn on Austria. I
have been encouraging a break in your two-on-two in the
South. I first suggested IRA vs. T because I thought
that there would be more support. But it seems that
Russia and Austria cannot work together. Therefore I
have been supporting IRT. Italy first suggested it to
me. You need to get out of the current dynamic in the
south or EG will dominate. I obviously do not want this,
so I have been encouraging Italy to side with you.
I hope that this helps. I do not actually know what he
will do. But you have a pretty good shot at him siding
with you. I think that he almost has to.
-- Prince Boar
Message from Turkey to France
Prince Boar,
My sincere thanks for your press. This is exactly what I was hoping for. I
have a strong feeling that the dynamic in the south will indeed change this
year.
Thanks again. Hang in there.
Ali
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
I've been considering the political situation, and I had to write with one
additional thought. I am beginning to think it likely that Italy may indeed
change course, attack Austria and form an alliance with France. Russia and
I were quick to ally in the face of AI pressure; but once that pressure is
gone, it is likely that RI will combine their efforts to squeeze me out. FI
are more likely to want Russia as their "third leg", since he can still
build northern fleets to attack you, and he can build much closer to
Germany.
I am determined not to let this happen, and so I'm starting to worry that my
associations with Russia are about to take a turn for the worse. Let's just
say that if, in the fall, your F Nwg has been moved into position to attack
StP, I would not be disappointed. After all, France isn't your only avenue
of expansion.
If all goes well this turn, there is a slim chance I may be able to hit Sev
in the fall as well. Of course, the result might be very different from the
one I'm hoping for, in which case I might very well be unable to prevent a
Russian build. And there's at least a reasonable chance that Russia will
gain Budapest and/or Warsaw this year, so I think some pre-emptive action on
our parts would be well-advised. Neither of us really wants to find out the
hard way what Russia would build, if he builds.
Of course, I write this in the strictest of confidence. I look forward to
your reply,
Ali
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
>it seems to me that GR are willing to cooperate with each other for now,
>despite the fact that they both seem to anticipate conflict afterward.
They are still having a difficult time with fleet arrangements.
>Most of the others don't seem to share you pessimism regardin your chances
>in France.
Its the _rate_ of progress that worries me.
> Germany might ... start to outpace English growth.
>Is your alliance as strong as everyone assumes, and would
>you stay the course against France in such a scenario?
I think the alliance is strong. I would definately NOT "stay the course"
if Germany outpaced me. He knows that that is a no-no. My goal in this
game has been stated very clearly to Germany. It is to survive with
strength equal to, but not greater than, other survivors. I don't want a
target on my back because I am dangerous. I have no hope of growing
rapidly, and I don't want to. Germany knows that he must not grow while I
inch across the Atlantic. I don't expect Germany to make a play for any
centers this year.
When I say that the alliance is strong, those words have to be taken within
the context of "titleist" and the quality of players in the game. We are
not going to see silly stabs or entertaining novelties. We may see
alliance switching based on sound strategies. For example, if I am a
survivor and France is not, I am completely open to reconfigured alliances
afterwards. I have no idea at this writing if it would be better to have a
Mediterranean strategy or a northern strategy.
By the way, you have a most interesting tactical situation down there.
Ivy Wingo
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
> By the way, you have a most interesting tactical situation down there.
I have to ask, what are your thoughts on it? My moves are fairly well
shored up at this point, but I'd love to hear an "outsider's view" of the
tactical situation. I'm too close to it, and I've gone around in cicles
enough that it's hard to think straight. Time permitting, of course.
Ali
Message from Turkey to Germany
Fredd,
Well, what do you think? Are you on board with Boh-Vie? There is at least
a slim chance that I may be able to work out an arrangement with Italy, in
which case I will no longer be joined at the hip to the Czar. It might turn
out that we'll have an opportunity to combine our forces sooner than I
thought. However, I'm still firmly committed to the plans we have in place
for the coming turn.
Of course, what happens in the fall all boils down to what Italy does in the
spring. Either way, though, I'm counting on close relations with Germany
going forward.
Write when you get a chance,
Ali Baba
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
>I've been considering the political situation, and I had to write with one
>additional thought. I am beginning to think it likely that Italy may indeed
>change course, attack Austria and form an alliance with France.
I would be shocked if Italy attacked Austria. As for Italy/France, they
have been close from the beginning.
>Russia and
>I were quick to ally in the face of AI pressure; but once that pressure is
>gone, it is likely that RI will combine their efforts to squeeze me out. FI
>are more likely to want Russia as their "third leg", since he can still
>build northern fleets to attack you, and he can build much closer to
>Germany.
All this presumes that Austria is gone or no longer threatens Russia. I
would be amazed of that happened anytime soon.
>I am determined not to let this happen, and so I'm starting to worry that my
>associations with Russia are about to take a turn for the worse.
Perhaps you have information that I don't have. Russia is too preoccupied
with Scandinavia and Warsaw this year.
>Let's just
>say that if, in the fall, your F Nwg has been moved into position to attack
>StP, I would not be disappointed. After all, France isn't your only avenue
>of expansion.
I think all the world knows that Nwg has to head for the North Atlantic.
If I tried to expand to the north, France would rip me to shreads from the
rear. I respect your request, but I just can't oblige.
>If all goes well this turn, there is a slim chance I may be able to hit Sev
>in the fall as well.
Only if Italy hits Austria in the spring would this be a sane thing to do.
Ooh, too strong; I am sure you are sane. 8-)
> And there's at least a reasonable chance that Russia will
>gain Budapest and/or Warsaw this year,
Budapest, no. Warsaw, yes indeed! Is that so bad?
Look, you have to have an ally. You have to. Who is it going to be? I
can't do much for you, even if I sent a fleet north. You must have either
Russia or Austria or Italy. If all three of them are against you, it's
over. Right now you have Russia, no matter how tenuous. Is Austria or
Italy promising you something if you stab Russia? Why should you believe
them? Ask Italy to stab Austria in the spring. Then you will happily turn
on Russia. Or ask Austria to support you back into Smyrna in the fall.
Then you will happily turn on Russia. But if one of them is expecting you
to stab Russia with only promises of a future alliance, ... .
>Of course, I write this in the strictest of confidence. I look forward to
>your reply,
I don't think I wrote what you wanted.
Still your friend. Hang in there.
Ivy
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
>I have to ask, what are your thoughts on it? My moves are fairly well
>shored up at this point, but I'd love to hear an "outsider's view" of the
>tactical situation.
Rum & Gre supp Con-Bul
Ank supp Black->Con
Expect Aeg s Ion-Gre, but Greece can retreat to Albania and be very
effective there in the fall. I doubt that Austria will go for Romania in
the spring, but Romania can always retreat to Sev and attack back in the
fall. Its important that you get an army in Bulgaria to connect your
units.
Easy for me to say!
Ivy
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
> Perhaps you have information that I don't have. Russia is too preoccupied
> with Scandinavia and Warsaw this year.
Here is what I am hearing. Italy has written to me and Russia, proclaiming
he's changed sides. The jist of it involves Tyr-Tri, Smy-Alb, with Alb-Gre
in the fall in exchange for Smyrna. He has also proposed Gre-Ser, Rum S
Bud-Gal. Indeed, there has been discussion between GRT about this very
combination, together with Boh-Vie to cut support.
France has confirmed that he's been lobbying Italy hard to change the 2-on-2
dynamic in the south. It could be that it's all just a big ploy to gain
some AI advantage against RT, but the more I hear, the less likely this
seems. So, it is at least possible that Gal will move to Bud, in which case
War-Gal, Mos-War may follow. Russia would go from being "on the ropes" to
being quite viable in a big hurry.
> I think all the world knows that Nwg has to head for the North Atlantic.
> If I tried to expand to the north, France would rip me to shreads from the
> rear. I respect your request, but I just can't oblige.
I think that until Italy is in place to assist him, France is purely in
defense mode. MAO-NAO gains him nothing if IRI S Eng-MAO, Lon-Eng. You'd
be able to bounce him in Lpl and still waltz into Por unopposed, then build
F Lpl and it would be over before it began. I fully expect Gas/Pic S Bur,
Bur S Pic, Bre S MAO or something along those lines. But of course, I also
recognize that this is entirely your call, and I'll respect whatever
decision you make.
>
> >If all goes well this turn, there is a slim chance I may be able to hit
Sev
> >in the fall as well.
>
> Only if Italy hits Austria in the spring would this be a sane thing to do.
> Ooh, too strong; I am sure you are sane. 8-)
Well... sometimes I wonder about that myself. I agree, the planets would
have to line up just right in order for it to happen. But if they do line
up just right, I'm not ruling it out. Just wanted you to be aware in case
it affected your plans.
> I don't think I wrote what you wanted.
Heh heh, as long as you wrote what you really think, that's what I wanted.
I'd much rather get honest replies that "aren't what I want to hear" than to
be strung along on false promises.
I have no wish to be duped by Italy for a second time, and I'm determined to
defend against it. As I said, I will be ordering pro-Russian and anti-AI
this turn. However, I also want to be prepared for the possibility that
Italy might change course. Again, I ask for strictest secrecy on the above
for obvious reasons.
Regards,
Ali
Message from England to Turkey
>> Perhaps you have information that I don't have.
>Here is what I am hearing. Italy has written to me ...
Wow! What do you have to lose as long as Italy goes first? Let him make
those moves.
Here's what you can say to help him along. You've probably said it already
anyway.
(1) If he went against Austria he could count on your help 100%. Obviously
true.
(2) You only have one fleet, ideal for a trusting relationship between
Italy and Turkey. Turkey would concentrate on interior Austria and Russia
with armies.
(3) Italy would be more compact. She often has a great problem with being
spread too thin between Turkey and Iberia.
(4) Italy could more easily turn west and request or demand part of France
from England. That would keep England from getting too big. [I could use
some help with France. 8-)]
Ivy
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
> Wow! What do you have to lose as long as Italy goes first? Let him make
> those moves.
>
> Here's what you can say to help him along. You've probably said it
already
> anyway.
As you surmised, these arguments (or some verion of them) have indeed been
discussed. At first I was hesitant to believe Italy, and I'm still far from
convinced, but it all fell into place when I received France's press. He
admitted that he at first pushed for IAR vs. T, but Austria and Russia
couldn't get along, so it became ITR vs. A. But in the long run, FIRT
doesn't hold water. IRT armies are going to dismantle Austria, then all
work together to fight Germany? Maybe in a care-bear game, but I don't
expect to see such a thing here.
Of course, it's impossible to say what will really happen. But France says
he's pretty confident Italy will attack Austria. If Tyr-Tri, Gal-Bud,
Mos-War all go, then Austria will be decimated quickly, and only Russia and
Italy benefit. After that, I think Italy will pick an ally in either me or
Russia. If I come out of this strong, and Russia weak, then I've reason to
believe he'll side with me. On the other hand, if Russia looks viable, then
he presents a more attractive ally to both Italy and France.
Italy tells me that long-term, he envisions IT vs. EG, with G/T competing
for the center, and E/I competing for the seas. He is likely saying the
same thing to Russia about IR. Either way, it would imply that he may turn
on France sooner than later; but if he continues with the AI vs. RT, he
won't have the resources to influence France either way.
So, if this all comes about... and I realize it's still a big "if"... then
EGT cooperation against Russia would seem to be in both our best interests.
And given your concerns about slow progress in France, I figured, English
control of StP might solve both our problems.
If it turns out that Italy sticks with Austria after all, then the current
plan could still hurt Austria, especially if Germany and Russia cooperate.
We both know they've been talking about it, and I've certainly been
encouraging it in hopes that Austria will take a hit.
Anyway, I think this is going to be a real interesting turn. It's still
entirely possible that I might be in for a big surprise, and I've got backup
plans in place should that occur. But if Italy makes the turn, then it will
be a whole new ballgame in the south.
Best regards,
Ali
Message from Turkey to England
I really should proof-read these things *before* I send them...
> He has also proposed Gre-Ser, Rum S Bud-Gal.
Clearly, I meant Rum S Gal-Bud, not the other way around.
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
I am still scratching my head in disbelief. Why should Italy think he
could survive in Trieste if he went there in the spring?
Anyway, please don't make moves that help AI, just in case AI is still
together. Italy was the agressor against you, so he is required to
make-anti Austrian moves before you can trust him again.
By the way, Italy is moving to the Tyrhennian this turn. That could be
consistent with any Italian plans.
Ivy
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
> I am still scratching my head in disbelief. Why should Italy think he
> could survive in Trieste if he went there in the spring?
There are a number of ways to protect Trieste. For one thing, if Gal-Bud
goes, then Austrian A Bud will be destroyed, and Russian A Bud S Tri should
do the trick. Otherwise, Gal-Vie (or Boh-Vie), Rum-Bud (or Gal-Bud),
Gre-Ser (or Bul-Ser, or Rum-Ser) would cut all possible Austrian supports.
That's been the discussion, at any rate.
> Anyway, please don't make moves that help AI, just in case AI is still
> together. Italy was the agressor against you, so he is required to
> make-anti Austrian moves before you can trust him again.
Trust me, I won't do anything until I see Italy's cards on the table. I
figure Gre-Ser, Rum S Gal-Bud serves the RT vs. AI purposes. In Turkey/Bul,
I'm torn between Con-Bul, Ank S Bla-Con and Bla S Con, Con S Ank-Smy. The
best-case scenario is Ser S Aeg-Gre, with Bla S Con. If Italy then moves as
promised, then Gre retreats to Bul, enabling Bul S Alb-Gre and Con-Bla-Sev
in the fall.
> By the way, Italy is moving to the Tyrhennian this turn. That could be
> consistent with any Italian plans.
Yes, and consistent with IRT discussions. Italy's expressed desire is to
move his fleets west as quickly as possible, while trading Gre for Smy,
while gaining the build for Trieste. Under this scenario, my only real
options for growth are either Sevastopol or Serbia. If possible, I don't
want to see Italy and Russia building while I hold even, as I'm sure you can
appreciate.
Any chance any of this might change your mind about F Nwg?
Ali
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
>Any chance any of this might change your mind about F Nwg?
No, Nwg->North Atlantic is part of my plans to guarantee entry into the
mid-Atlantic by fall. Without that move, I make no progress against France
whatsoever.
Don't worry too much about Russia. If what you say is true, then Austria
will immediately be a non-entity. Germany will no longer feel the need to
save Russia. You and Germany can slice him apart.
Then we will all have to worry about Germany! Isn't this fun?
Ivy
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
> No, Nwg->North Atlantic is part of my plans to guarantee entry into the
> mid-Atlantic by fall. Without that move, I make no progress against
France
> whatsoever.
Fair enough. Can't blame me for trying. In a way, that might even work in
my favor, since it may scare the hell out of Italy, and anything that gets
his fleets out of my face is all good.
> Don't worry too much about Russia. If what you say is true, then Austria
> will immediately be a non-entity. Germany will no longer feel the need to
> save Russia. You and Germany can slice him apart.
I hope so. I do wish Germany wrote more often; at this point I'm not even
sure of Boh-Vie, although the last press I received from Germany was
enthusiastic about it.
> Then we will all have to worry about Germany! Isn't this fun?
Heheh, indeed. As long as I'm still around to worry about anyone, I'll be
happy.
Please keep all of this under your hat, things could really go wrong if it
all becomes general knowledge. I'm risking a lot in revealing as much to
you as I have. I can only hope that you share my view that our long-term
interests coincide, and I hope you will treat my confidences accordingly.
Regards,
Ali
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
Any thoughts as the deadline approaches? If possible, please write to
confirm Tyr-Tri, Smy-Alb. I am committed to doing whatever is necessary to
get you Tri and Gre in exchange for Smy, and to long-term IT alliance after
that.
If you have any concerns, please write at once so we can get them ironed
out. Otherwise, I am cautiously optimistic that we will be able to quickly
rebuild our relations into a strong alliance.
Regards,
Ali
Message from Italy to Russia and Turkey
After consulting with my crystal ball, otherwise known as the Archduke, here
are the optimum moves for the spring:
rum-ser
gre s rum-ser
ank-smy
con-bul
bla-rum
gal-war
mos s gal-war
I don't expect you to make those moves. Heck, nobody expects you to make
those moves. But they counter the following pretty dang well:
ser-rum
bud-rum
vie-gal
mos s vie-gal
aeg s eas-smy
With smy-alb and tyr-tri, Serbia has no retreat. Heck, Trieste wouldn't
even need a support in the fall.
My orders don't change but just a heads-up that Gal-Bud will not succeed.
It's up to the two of you whether you want to change your orders.
Life is Beautiful,
The Mole
Message from Italy to Turkey
>
> Any thoughts as the deadline approaches?
>
Just as I was about to click 'Send', I get your message. Juicy stuff, eh?
Roberto
Message from Turkey to Italy and Russia
Gentlemen,
I thank Roberto for his juicy intelligence. I am inclined to go along with
his suggestion. I have entered the moves he suggests, pending Russian
approval.
Ali
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
What do you think? The "austrian" orders Roberto speaks of sound pretty
legit to me. This could be a golden opportunity to take advantage of
foreknowledge about Austrian plans, an opportunity that will not arise
again. If the intelligence is genuine, that is.
I've received a press from France that seems to support Italy's proposals.
At least, he says he strongly believes Italy will attack Austria this turn.
He says he has indeed been lobbying Italy hard to change the 2-on-2 dynamic
in the south, for fear that it will simply lead to EG dominance in the
north. Anyway, it does seem to corroborate what Italy has been saying.
Anyway, at the moment I'm inclined to go along with Italy's suggestion. I
find this surprising, given my hesitation to date regarding Italian
intentions. In any case, I'm very eager to hear what you think of it.
Ali
Message from Russia to Turkey
Ali,
> Your assesment seems pretty sound. I agree, it's looking more and more
like
> Italy will come through. Thank you for putting up with my paranoia (which
I
> haven't entirely lost, yet).
I've been wrong before (F1901, and F1902 spring to mind), so a
certain level of paranoia is appropriate. Roberto does seem more rational
the Ferdie does, though.
> I do think Austria's nervous; his latest press to me sounded much less
> cocky, and I think his nerves are getting frayed.
Well, at least he's writing to you. 8-) Italy and I have been trying to
get him to move out of position by talking up FAIR vs. GET, (which
France proposed after moves, but before retreats), but he doesn't seem
to be buying it.
> I'm still not sure what I'll do in Turkey/Bulgaria, but it will either be
> Con-Bul, Ank S Bla-Con or Bla S Con, Con S Ank-Smy
At this point Bla S Con, Con S Ank-Smy seems better. Austria
might dislodge Gre, in which case you can retreat to Bul, or he might
take Bul, in which case you'll have three Units adjacent to recapture
it in the Fall. One other thing that just popped to mind. Don't be too
eager to trade Greece for Smy, Italy will/should take Tri, which will
keep him from disbanding, and I'd rather see you grow than Roberto.
In Friendship, and Alliance,
Nick.
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
> Just as I was about to click 'Send', I get your message. Juicy stuff, eh?
Yes indeed. I'm feeling more and more confident that you're on the level.
I hope I don't discover that I'm just kidding myself. If you move as agreed
this turn, then we'll have a whole new ballgame.
Ali
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
> Well, at least he's writing to you. 8-) Italy and I have been trying
to
> get him to move out of position by talking up FAIR vs. GET, (which
> France proposed after moves, but before retreats), but he doesn't seem
> to be buying it.
Ah, so that's it. I had heard rumors of FAIR, and wondered where they came
from.
> Don't be too
> eager to trade Greece for Smy, Italy will/should take Tri, which will
> keep him from disbanding, and I'd rather see you grow than Roberto.
I've been favoring it in discussion with Italy, since I dearly want him the
hell out of Smyrna. But clearly, once he moves against Austria, we'll have
the upper hand, not him. I'm sure you can appreciate that in my heart of
hearts, I'm actually not all that eager to give up Greece. ;^)
Ali
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
One thing I just noticed:
> rum-ser
> gre s rum-ser
> ank-smy
> con-bul
> bla-rum
>
> gal-war
> mos s gal-war
>
> ser-rum
> bud-rum
> vie-gal
> mos s vie-gal [assuming he means War, not Mos]
> aeg s eas-smy
If the move processes with these orders, then Austria will have lost 4
centers in one move: Tyr-Tri, Rum-Ser, Gal-War, and Boh-Vie. Assuming Italy
and Germany do their parts, of course.
Ali
Message from Russia to Turkey
***Private Message***
Ali,
> Message from Italy to Russia and Turkey in 'titleist':
> After consulting with my crystal ball, otherwise known as the Archduke,
> ser-rum
> bud-rum
> vie-gal
> war s vie-gal
> aeg s eas-smy
>
> With smy-alb and tyr-tri, Serbia has no retreat. Heck, Trieste wouldn't
> even need a support in the fall.
> My orders don't change but just a heads-up that Gal-Bud will not succeed.
> It's up to the two of you whether you want to change your orders.
Hmmm, suddenly Austria reveals his full plans to Italy... Why? On the
other hand, given Austria's situation, the orders mostly make sense, though
I think Aeg-Gre would be better than S EMed-Smy. Can we trust Roberto?
Probably. Is Austria telling Roberto the truth? I'm not so sure. What do
you think?
Nick.
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
> Hmmm, suddenly Austria reveals his full plans to Italy... Why? On
the
> other hand, given Austria's situation, the orders mostly make sense,
though
> I think Aeg-Gre would be better than S EMed-Smy. Can we trust Roberto?
> Probably. Is Austria telling Roberto the truth? I'm not so sure. What
do
> you think?
It may be that Italy hasn't inquired before now, and but has somehow managed
to ferret out Austria's intentions. It may also be that Italy and Austria
have always discussed their moves in detail, but Roberto just wanted us to
think otherwise.
My gut reaction is that it's genuine. For some reason France's press did a
lot to convince me Italy may be on the level. If the scenario plays out as
described in Italy's joint press, then I have to say Italy will be in pretty
damn good shape, so he's got some strong motivation to do it. And, the
Austrian moves he describes do sound like a pretty reasonable Austrian
defense.
At present my orders are as Italy proposes, to the letter. However, I value
your opinion a lot more than Italy's. Bottom line is, with my old set of
orders I still come out ok against the supposed Austrian defense; the big
difference is that Gal doesn't move to Bud. I'm assuming Mos-War, so with
the Austrian combination that Roberto describes, it would all be a big
bounce.
That might not be so bad, actually, if we essentially hold position while
Italy attacks Austria. But, if it's all genuine and we take advantage of it
as Roberto suggests, it would have an enormous payoff. It would also make
it easier for me to hold onto Greece in the fall if that's the decision.
It's a tough call. I should be in e-mail contact right up to the deadline,
so we've still got some time to discuss it.
Ali
Message from Italy to Turkey
The trade of Trieste and Greece for Smyrna (Italy's side); Smyrna and Serbia
for Greece (Turkey's side) is good for the both of us. It gets all of our
units south of a common enemy and we just start pushing north and west.
I anticipate my fleet strength will be sufficient to hold you to the Greece
swap in the fall. I'm sure the last thing you want is my fleets hanging
around the Eastern Med and Aegean.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to Italy and Turkey
> Message from Italy to Russia and Turkey in 'titleist':
> I don't expect you to make those moves, but they counter the following
> pretty dang well:
>
> ser-rum
> bud-rum
> vie-gal
> mos s vie-gal
> aeg s eas-smy
Did Austria tell you he was making these moves? Obviously, that's
the implication, but you didn't actually say so... You have, however,
repeatedly said, that the Archduke never tells you what he's doing with
his Armies, so why now, and why in such detail?
I see three possibilities:
1) He's heard from somewhere that you plan to attack him, and is
spreading disinformation.
2) He's worried and desparate, and was seeking reassurance that his
moves would work.
3) You've decided to stick with Austria, and are trying to turn our
attacks, and open up Turkey to lose Con.
Can you offer anything to support this rather surprizing claim?
A Curious,
Nick.
Message from Russia to Turkey
Ali,
Let's see how Roberto responds to my query. I don't know why, but
something about Roberto's letter just started my "spider-sense" tingling.
Nick.
Message from Italy to Russia and Turkey
>
> Did Austria tell you he was making these moves? Obviously, that's
> the implication, but you didn't actually say so... You
> have, however, repeatedly said, that the Archduke never tells you
> what he's doing with his Armies, so why now, and why in such detail?
Good questions. I hope I have some answers. [picture Roberto pulling
rabbit out of hat] :)
He didn't actually tell me directly those were his moves. But, when I
queried him regarding 'Tyrolia support Vienna' he replied with 'don't
bother, it's moving'. Where else would it move other than Galicia? Second,
he's been truthful regarding his fleet move to date and he suggested Smy-Arm
and Eas-Smy and taking Greece back in the fall. Third, I'm the Archduke and
I'm looking at the map and thinking Rumania is supporting something to
either Budapest or Serbia so let's cut any possible support with both armies
(he hinted at such a move in an earlier message). The only moves that make
the Austrian moves fail as outlined are the moves I gave you and the odds of
them occurring without intelligence gathering is minimal at best.
> I see three possibilities:
> 1) He's heard from somewhere that you plan to attack him, and is
> spreading disinformation.
In which case my goose is cooked either way I move.
> 2) He's worried and desparate, and was seeking reassurance that his
> moves would work.
I'm quite sure the first part of this sentence is true.
> 3) You've decided to stick with Austria, and are trying to turn our
> attacks, and open up Turkey to lose Con.
>
I did prefice the message with, "I don't expect you to make those
moves....".
> Can you offer anything to support this rather surprizing claim?
>
Other than directly quoting Austrian press (which can be fabricated anyway),
no. They are my assumptions as to what Austria will order from having
pieced together several press messages. I believe the odds are greater than
50% those will be his moves. And if they are, he'd be completely crippled
come winter. I don't often switch alliances very easily. It requires a
great deal of benefit to my nation for me to consider it. Truthfully,
Austria has served her purpose to me. I have fleet superiority throughout
the Med that will be difficult to match anytime soon. Seeing Austria pull
her lone fleet will give that much more security to Italy.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to Italy and Turkey
Gentlemen,
> Message from Italy to Russia and Turkey in 'titleist':
> He didn't actually tell me directly those were his moves. But, when I
> queried him regarding 'Tyrolia support Vienna' he replied with 'don't
> bother, it's moving'. Where else would it move other than Galicia?
Trieste is the most obvious alternative....
> I'm looking at the map and thinking Rumania is supporting something to
> either Budapest or Serbia so let's cut any possible support with both
armies
> (he hinted at such a move in an earlier message).
The probem with this is that a you're much better tactician than the
Archduke is. Last Fall, I was sure that he would either order Ukr-Mos,
or Ukr S Gal-War, and attack Rum to protect Ser, and bounce Sev-Rum,
but he didn't, he ordered Gal S Ukr-War, Bud S Ser.
> They are my assumptions as to what Austria will order from having
> pieced together several press messages. I believe the odds are greater
than
> 50% those will be his moves. And if they are, he'd be completely crippled
> come winter.
Fair enough. I don't know that I agree that Austria will make these
moves,
though he should, but you have eliminated the AI stab of Turkey from my
list of explanations.
In Friendship and Alliance,
Nick.
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
Well, it seems your "spidey sense" was right... Italy didn't know what
Austria is planning, he was just speculating. Would have been nice if he
had volunteered that, instead of having it dragged out of him. Still, in a
way it's almost an argument in his favor; if he were simply lying, wouldn't
he have made up some story about why Austria was so talkative?
Gotta love this game, don't you? Schemes within schemes within schemes, and
90% of them are ghosts anyway.
I think it all boils down to the simple question of whether we think Italy
is planning to attack Austria or not. If he is, then chances are he's
genuinely giving us his best advice. If he changes course, he's going to
want Austria knocked out in a single blow, and the scenario he depicts would
do exactly that.
Italy probably does have reliable information about what F Aeg will do. And
again, once we assume an order for Aeg, nearly everything else follows from
it. If Aeg S EMS-Smy, then he cannot dislodge Greece. Greece cannot
support an attack on anything but Serbia, so Ser-Gre doesn't make sense.
If Serbia is not involved with Greece, then it's probably involved with Bul
or Rum. But Ser can't move to Bul or Rum, because that would allow Gre-Ser,
which he cannot permit. Any support Serbia might give is highly likely to
be cut. So if we assume Aeg S EMS-Smy, then Ser will almost certainly
attack Rum to cut support.
Which brings us to Bud. Bud is also likely to have its support cut, and
also cannot be permitted to move. Austria is closely surrounded, and anyone
who picked Austria must surely know that direct supports won't work in his
situation. Rum threatens Serbia as well as Bud, so this means Bud-Rum in
addition to Ser-Rum.
Finally, if Bud is moving, then there's no reason for A Vie to sit still.
Galicia is the natural choice, to cut any support it might offer against
Bud. However, along this line of thinking, War-Gal would also be needed, to
cut Gal's support against Vienna. So, if we start with a premise of Aeg S
EMS-Smy, then the rest seems to follow logically (except for my different
conjecture about A War).
Anyway, long and short of it is if we believe Italy will attack Austria,
then I think we should go with his plan. If we think he's setting us up,
then we should stick with our original plan. If we're not sure, then the
original plan will still work from a defensive standpoint, but we'll have
blown a potential chance for the jackpot. And the more I think about it,
the less likely it seems that Austria would fail to defend against the
attack we've been discussing (you, me, Italy, Germany... ).
I guess in the end I'm in favor of going with Italy's suggestion. What does
your spidey-sense tell you?
If my calculations are right, we've got about an hour before the deadline.
Is that right? Anyway, write when you get a chance.
Ali
Message from Turkey to Russia
Nick,
I'm sure it goes without saying, but I intended to mention it anyway: my
first commitment is to you and to the plans we formed. If you don't feel
comfortable with Italy's plan then just say the word and I'll enter the
orders we discussed. I'll be watching my mail closely through the evening.
Ali
Message from Russia to Turkey
Ali,
Sorry this is so late.
> I guess in the end I'm in favor of going with Italy's suggestion.
Might as well.
> What does your spidey-sense tell you?
Italy's speculative moves for Austria are Austria's best defense,
I just doubt that he will pick the best defense based on his
attack last Fall, but the potential pay-off for us is worth it.
Nick.
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
> The trade of Trieste and Greece for Smyrna (Italy's side); Smyrna and
Serbia
> for Greece (Turkey's side) is good for the both of us. It gets all of our
> units south of a common enemy and we just start pushing north and west.
Indeed, it's a win-win proposition. And it continues to support even growth
between us, which as you know is a primary concern for me.
> I anticipate my fleet strength will be sufficient to hold you to the
Greece
> swap in the fall. I'm sure the last thing you want is my fleets hanging
> around the Eastern Med and Aegean.
Such things will not be necessary. If you act as promised this turn, you
will be in Greece in the fall. I encourage you to support your move there
as you feel is necessary, and I will not oppose you.
Regards,
Ali
Message from Germany to Turkey
Ali:
I have your message about your support of GAL-BUD. But I haven't heard
from Russia if that is the order that he's entering. I'd hate to order
BOH-VIE if there isn't any reason for it.
On another note. You said earlier that Italy pulled the wool over your
eyes. Did he make an outright lie? Or was he subtler? I ask because
he has stated that he'll make a specific move. I wonder if I should
trust that. For instance, if he were to say 'I'm retreating TYR away
from MUN' would he do anything except move TYR to VEN or PIE?
Fredd
Message from Turkey to Germany
Fredd,
> I have your message about your support of GAL-BUD. But I haven't heard
> from Russia if that is the order that he's entering. I'd hate to order
> BOH-VIE if there isn't any reason for it.
I'm glad you wrote. Indeed Russia and I have agreed on a different set of
orders than those that we had discussed, since neither of us had heard from
you. However, I still stronly urge you to order Boh-Vie, since there is a
chance you may get in there if things work out as we hope.
> On another note. You said earlier that Italy pulled the wool over your
> eyes. Did he make an outright lie? Or was he subtler?
Unfortunately, an outright lie. He promised not to move any fleets my way
if I built A Ank, and he asked me to support Tun-Gre, which it turns out he
didn't order. His promise and request were both made in clear terms.
However, read below...
> I ask because
> he has stated that he'll make a specific move. I wonder if I should
> trust that. For instance, if he were to say 'I'm retreating TYR away
> from MUN' would he do anything except move TYR to VEN or PIE?
I tell you this in the strictest confidence. What he is telling me and
Russia is that he'll order Tyr-Tri. I have received some press from France
that leads me to believe Italy may indeed attack Austria this turn. Russia
and I have concocted a scheme to take advantage of it. I'm quite nervous
about it, because it's somewhat risky. But if it pays off, then Austria
should be all but gone this year. Part of that hope, though, lies in the
potential for Boh-Vie, if we can trick Vie to move out.
So to answer your question, Russia and I have chosen at this time to believe
the Italian, specifically that he is moving Tyr-Tri. I have to say that if
this occurs, it will significantly change the landscape in the south, and we
will have much to discuss. If instead I am played for a patsy a second time
by Italy, then I'll be eating a substantial amount of crow.
I hope this helps. I know it sounds screwy, but it's the best I've got.
Whatever happens, I'll be looking to Germany as an ally against either
Austria or Russia once the dust settles, unless I am the dust. If you have
any questions, thoughts or concerns, please do not hesitate to write.
Best regards,
Ali
Message from France to all
It is too bad that we did not get the results in last
night. I must leave on a trip in a couple of hours. I
will be gone through next weekend. I was hoping to see
what evil was done (to me an others). We were doing so
well with meeting the deadlines :-)
I am not the person late, therefore my absence will not
hold up processing this set of moves. I asked Doug to
advance the deadline for the next set of moves that I
have orders due. If for some reasons you feel that you
must talk to either Prince Boar or the Dauphin during a
retreat phase (if one occurs) and I do not have a
retreat, then you will have to work that out with Doug.
Regards,
France
Message from Germany to Turkey
Ali:
Amazing. I had checked my email on THursday morning, but then was away
until late Thursday nite. Seems that I was missed over that little
time frame.
RTI attacking Austria. I gotta admit that I'll believe that when I see
it. Although I suppose it's not out of the ordinary. If Grace is
communicating to his other neighbors as poorly as he talks to me, I can
understand it.
But I suppose the biggest problem with the whole idea is that Italy has
you by the balls. Why stab Austria? In the Spring? A far better time
would be in the fall. If he goes to TRI now, he'll just get tossed out
in the Fall.
Fredd
Austria: Fleet Aegean Sea SUPPORT Italian Fleet Eastern Mediterranean → Smyrna (*void*)
Austria: Army Budapest → Rumania (*bounce*)
Austria: Army Serbia → Rumania (*bounce, destroyed*)
Austria: Army Vienna → Galicia (*bounce*)
Austria: Army Warsaw → Ukraine
England: Army Belgium SUPPORT German Army Munich → Burgundy (*void*)
England: Fleet English Channel → Mid-Atlantic Ocean
England: Fleet Irish Sea SUPPORT Fleet English Channel → Mid-Atlantic Ocean
England: Fleet London → English Channel (*bounce*)
England: Fleet Norwegian Sea → North Atlantic Ocean
France: Fleet Brest → English Channel (*bounce*)
France: Army Burgundy → Belgium (*bounce*)
France: Army Gascony → Burgundy (*bounce*)
France: Fleet Mid-Atlantic Ocean SUPPORT Fleet Brest → English Channel (*dislodged*)
France: Army Picardy SUPPORT Army Burgundy → Belgium
Germany: Fleet Baltic Sea SUPPORT Fleet Sweden → Gulf of Bothnia
Germany: Army Berlin → Prussia
Germany: Army Bohemia SUPPORT Army Munich
Germany: Army Munich SUPPORT Army Bohemia
Germany: Army Ruhr SUPPORT English Army Belgium
Germany: Fleet Sweden → Gulf of Bothnia
Italy: Fleet Eastern Mediterranean CONVOY Army Smyrna → Albania
Italy: Fleet Ionian Sea CONVOY Army Smyrna → Albania
Italy: Fleet Naples → Tyrrhenian Sea
Italy: Army Smyrna → Eastern Mediterranean → Ionian Sea → Albania
Italy: Army Tyrolia → Trieste
Russia: Army Galicia → Budapest (*bounce*)
Russia: Fleet Gulf of Bothnia → Livonia
Russia: Army Moscow → Warsaw
Turkey: Army Ankara → Smyrna
Turkey: Fleet Black Sea → Rumania (*bounce*)
Turkey: Army Constantinople → Bulgaria
Turkey: Army Greece SUPPORT Army Rumania → Serbia
Turkey: Army Rumania → Serbia
|