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Austria: Builds 2 units
England: Builds 2 units
France: Builds 2 units
Germany: Builds 2 units
Italy: Builds 1 unit
Turkey: Builds 1 unit
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 11 Results:
Lance Armstrong (USP) has won his second stage of the
Tour de France in as many days. Today Armstrong won the
32 kilometer uphill time trial on the Cote de Chamrousse
outside of Grenoble. Armstrong put over seven minutes
into yellow jersey wearer Francios Simon (BJR), and
exactly one minute into his main rival Jan Ullrich (TEL).
Today is a rest day before the race enters the Pyrenees.
Another Stage win for England. There is now a 4 way tie
for first.
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 20 points
France (Festina): 10 points
Germany (Telekom): 20 points
Italy (Fassa Bortolo): 10 points
Russia (Robobank): 20 points
Turkey (CSC): 20 points
Doug (O.N.C.E.): 0 points
Selected Standings:
1. François Simon (BJR) 46 hours, 48 minutes, 36 seconds
3. Lance Armstrong (USP) @ 13:07
5. Jan Ullrich (TEL) @ 16:41
6. Christophe Moreau (FES) @ 18:21
7. Igor G. Galdeano (ONC) @ 19:05
Green Jersey:
1. Stuart O'Grady (C.A.) 136 points
2. Erik Zabel (TEL) 127
Polka dot Jersey
1. Laurent Roux (DEL) 127 points
2. Laurent Jalabert (CSC) 106
3. Jan Ullrich (TEL) 92
--Prince Boar
Message from France to England
Ivy:
I was up early philosophizing and the Dauphin ran up
giddy with the news. He was too excited to sleep as
well. The reports from the field are that things could
not have gone better for us. You will receive both your
builds. Germany denied Russia Sweden. Russia will be
desperate for allies and will surely side with us! The
Dauphin was disappointed about the bounce in Burgundy,
but all else went well. We are pleased that you made it
into Norway! Oh, and the move by Italy to Tyrolia? It
could be good. I left a subtle hint, but do not know if
was his reason.
Congratulations to us both. If we were not both such
macho studs and ladies men, I would give you a big hug.
Instead a hearty hand shake and a slug on the shoulder.
But not too hard in return. The Dauphin is the Brawny
one, I am more delicate. I do not spend the time in
training that he does.
We are off to an EXCELLENT start!
-- Prince Boar
Message from Russia to Master
Doug,
There was discussion about determining the tournament winner using the
tie-breaker system from the early rounds, (In the event of a draw, the Power
with the most Centers wins, if there is a center-count tie for most centers
in
the draw, the game is rolled-back until one of the tied Powers has more
Centers than the other, and he wins.) In the game announcement, you wrote:
> The winner will be a soloist, or the largest member of a draw. If the two
> largest members of a draw are of equal size, they will be declared
co-titleists.
Could you clear up the rules in a Broadcast? Thanks.
Message from Russia to Turkey
> Movement results for Fall of 1901. (titleist.002)
>
> Austria: Army Vienna -> Galicia.
> Austria: Army Serbia SUPPORT Turkish Army Bulgaria -> Rumania.
> Austria: Fleet Albania -> Greece.
> Italy: Fleet Ionian Sea CONVOY Army Apulia -> Tunis.
> Turkey: Army Bulgaria -> Rumania. (*bounce*)
> Turkey: Army Constantinople -> Bulgaria. (*bounce*)
> Turkey: Fleet Ankara -> Black Sea.
Ali,
Are you sure that was wise? Now Austria builds A Bud and takes Rum,
while AI move to Aeg and EMed in the Spring, and we're both toast. I
decided late that I had to move Sev-Rum so that I could build A War, and
have War and Ukr in place to deal with Vie-Gal, but now it seems that's
going to be more difficult than I thought. What made you decide to hand
the East to AI?
Your soon to be late ally,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Russia to Germany
> So sorry on not getting back to you. I thought that I had.
Right, and the fact that I hadn't responded was completely in character.
> My thoughts are that I have to bounce you. With a Russian presense in
> the north my job is just that much more difficult.
Well, that depends on whether your job is to eliminate England, or
eliminate France, or to die a quick and painful death like I'm going to do.
Yes, a Russian northern presence makes it harder for Germany to solo,
but given that presence, you had a choice of working with it, or opposing
it. Given an English Army in Bel, and an extended arguement with France
over Burgundy, you clearly made the wrong choice.
> Perhaps we'll work together down the road. In fact, I'd bet on it.
I wouldn't. I'll listen to what you have to say, for the few years I'm
around, but I'd be very surprised if either of us is around long enough
to work together.
Nick.
Message from Russia to Italy
> Message from Italy to Russia in 'titleist':
> Not exactly what I meant. I know there are stalemate lines that could be
> reached. Even in the event of a 2-way draw, Doug is going to want to
> declare a winner of the tournament. The tie-breaker I believe is whomever
> got to 17 first.
That was the rule in the semis, but according to Doug's opening
announcement::
:: This winner will be a soloist, or the largest member of a draw.
:: If the two largest members of a draw are of equal size, they
:: will be declared co-titleists.
I've asked Doug which rules we're operating under, though given the
Fall Results, that question seems moot.
> Italy: Army Venice -> Tyrolia.
Coming after Warsaw, or lending France a helping hand? Could I induce
you to stab the traitorous Archduke at this point?
Sadly,
Nick.
Message [from Russia] to all
> Austria: 5 Supply centers, 3 Units: Builds 2 units.
> Italy: 4 Supply centers, 3 Units: Builds 1 unit.
> Russia: 4 Supply centers, 4 Units: Builds 0 units.
> Turkey: 4 Supply centers, 3 Units: Builds 1 unit.
Early Leader Warning! Early Leader Warning! Everyone
gang up on Austria! :-)
Message from England to Russia
Nicky,
Of course I believed you. But I was truly very frightened of being bounced
at both ends and did intend for the longest time to support myself into
Norway.
I began leaning toward the bounce in Belgium when I received believable
word that Germany and France had arranged another bounce in Burgundy.
That was my good fortune and it settled the issue.
France is now proposing combined action against Germany with your help.
Your reaction?
I received quite a bit of sympathy last turn from the world's press, both
public and private, thanks to your move to StP. It looks like this turn
you will be the one receiving "get well soon" notes.
The Turkey/Austria action was a complete surprise to me. Italy may now
play a major role in tipping balances one way or the other.
More later.
Most cordially,
Ivy Wingo
Message from Russia to England
> France is now proposing combined action against Germany
> with your help. Your reaction?
*laugh* What makes you think I'll be around long enough
to help?
> I received quite a bit of sympathy last turn from the world's press, both
> public and private, thanks to your move to StP. It looks like this turn
> you will be the one receiving "get well soon" notes.
Either that or they'll just sing, 'Nah, nah, nah, nah! Nah, nah, nah,
nah!
Hey, heyyyyy, good-bye!' ;-)
> The Turkey/Austria action was a complete surprise to me. Italy may
> now play a major role in tipping balances one way or the other.
Yeah, Turkey just slit his own throat, unless Italy stabs Austria.
Austria can build Bud, take Rum, and AI can shift Fleets into Aeg
and EMed and take Bul this Fall, while Austria keeps me pinned.
Once I recover from the shock, I'll be back in touch. Hell, if you
offer to support Fin-Swe, while I move Bot-Bal, and then support
Bal-Den in the Fall, I might just survive long enough to gut Fred. 8-)
Nick.
Message from England to Italy
Good Roberto,
You are going to receive a LOT of mail now. The world is going to come
begging at your feet, for you can tip the balance or stabilize or
destabilize an arena of your choice.
So, once again, I seek information on Italian intentions. Like last time,
I only ask a for response that maintains mutual respect between us. That
could include anything from "no comment" to an exploration of how we might
work together.
As you can see from the configuration on the board, it is time for me to
make a decision. I think I still have the option of allying with either
Germany or France. Germany is a poor communicator. France is terrific,
but also a very dangerous player.
If you told me you would now like to come west, that would greatly
influence my choice. If you still prefer the east, and say so candidly,
that too would help me decide. If you do say that, you can trust me not to
relay that information to either Turkey or Austria.
Most cordially,
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Turkey
Nicely done, Ali!
I have received a message of dispair from Russia, the very Russia who so
frightened English citizens with his army in StP last turn. I cannot tell
you how much I am in your debt for what you have done in Romania.
There was a very great danger of Russia building another unit in StP and
coming after Norway with a triple attack.
If I survive the EFG situation, and you build on your early success, you
and I may eventually discover ways we can work together. As it is, we can
still share information. I am trying to determine Italian plans, although
in the past Roberto has been cordial but very tight-lipped with me.
Again, congratulations on your good work.
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Austria
Nicely done, Edna! Please forward that message to your superiors.
I have received a message of dispair from Russia, the very Russia who so
frightened English citizens with his army in StP last turn. I cannot tell
you how much I am in your debt for what you have done in Romania.
There was a very great danger of Russia building another unit in StP and
coming after Norway with a triple attack.
If I survive the EFG situation, and you build on your early success, you
and I may soon discover ways we can work together. As it is, we can still
share information. I am trying to determine Italian plans, although in the
past Roberto has been cordial but very tight-lipped with me.
Again, congratulations on your good work.
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to France
Good Prince,
I stayed up until midnight, waiting for results in vain, then got up at 5am
to find them. I am so happy I can hardly think straight. I have your note
and a note from Russia, who is sorely distressed. Obligations are tearing
my away for a few hours, but I expect to get off a note to you with
substance later today.
My home modem held up fairly well last night. It was only down about two
hours. Now my computer at work is off limits as the pros install a new
operating system.
Happy as a lark,
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Germany
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Freddy!
You and those wonderful scoundrels in the southeast have saved me from the
Russian hordes. And whatever you arranged with France in Burgundy, if
indeed it was arranged, enabled Belgium to go to the "good guys."
I have already received a note from Russia, who is sorely distressed. He
will want to be very friendly with me now.
I stayed up until midnight, waiting for results in vain, then got up at 5am
to find them. I am so happy I can hardly think straight. Obligations are
tearing my away today for quite a while, but I expect to get off a note to
you with substance later.
Happy as a lark,
Ivy Wingo
Message from France to England
Ivy:
We should discuss a plan of approach for the builds and
the coming year. I feel that it might be best for you to
focus on getting Russia on board for a REF attack on
Germany. I will instead focus on being friendly with
Germany, hoping to make it easier for us to press our
armies forward. Therefore I would want to let you handle
the negotiations with Russia, so it does not get back to
Germany that I am.
I would like to see Germany build a fleet in Berlin rathe
than Kiel. I assume that you prefer that as well.
Does this make sense? It allows us to try to keep them
apart. I realize that we will both want to talk to each
of them somewhat.
Meanwhile, I will also find out what is up with Italy.
But probably not until tonight. It will be a busy, busy
day. Meetings, Meetings, meetings.
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to Russia
Czar Nicolas:
Nasty thing for Austria and Turkey to do to you. They
made your pay for your bold move. Well, actually it
still may have occurred with a bounce in Galicia. I hope
that you can talk your way out of it. At least England
will be happy with you.
What about Germany. He chooses to bounce with both of
us. I am sure that you are not happy with him.
I will write again tonight.
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to Germany
Frederick:
As you noticed, I was able to bounce you in Burgundy. So
not too much harm done. But you prevented me from being
able to bounce England from Belgium. Of my choices, I
had to prevent you in Burgundy rather than England in
Belgium.
I know that my last note to you had some irritation in
it. It is important for us to discuss things so we do
not have misunderstandings and frustration. Hopefully we
can avoid that in the future.
Now that England is the same size as us, I feel that he
is the most powerful. We need to do something about
that? I think that we each need to build a fleet. I
need one in Brest. The location of your fleet is more
problematic. Russia looks weak. You could build F Kie,
A Ber and go to Bal and Pru/Sil. Or you could build F
Ber and A Kie and go to Bal, while using Kie for defense.
Either way I cannot see a way around your building a
fleet. England may have 4. Russia is likely upset with
you and has might in Scandinavia.
I look forward to your thoughts.
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to Italy
Roberto:
Bold move my good man. What are your plans for the army
in Tyrolia?
Thanks for not moving to Piedmont. I shall not build in
Marseilles, as promised. Please do not build a fleet in
Rome. That would upset the Dauphin. Is that a fair
request? If not, let's discuss.
-- Prince Boar
Message from Observer to Observer
Ouch! I hope Eric isn't playing Russia.
Russia is in some trouble. No builds and his forces are split in
half.
England doesn't seem to be in trouble anymore. Two builds is nice
for England, except that it might attract some negative attention
from FG.
England no longer has anything to fear from Russia. Russia has two
options in the north: convoy the army to Lvn to feed into the
southern front, or try to snare Sweden for a build.
The West appears to be completely up in the air. E, F or G could be
the odd man out. I think I'm going to stick to my original
prediction that France will be the odd man out in the West. EG can
cooperate against France without worrying about Russia.
==========================
The East is a bit more clear: Austria and Turkey conspired against
the Russian. And with his forces split in half, he's not an
attractive ally for Italy.
If I were playing Turkey, I'd approach Russia. Now that Turkey is in
the Black Sea and Russia has no builds, the Turk can more or less
dictate the terms of an alliance. Russia is desperate for a friend
in the east.
Russia appears to be in trouble, but with his forces split, I don't
think it's going to be a priority for anyone to see him eliminated or
reduced. Russia is going to be in a bargainig mood, and with the
mounting tension between AIT, one of them will accept a Russian deal.
If there's a strong AI in place, then my guess that Turkey will be
eliminated first could be correct.
What would be interesting to see is Italy turn West to join EG in a
joint attack on France. The army in Tunis isn't too helpful toward
that end, but it does make Austria more comfortable I suppose. And
the army in Tyrolia, while giving Italy some much needed diplomatic
leverage, could also be moved to Pie next spring if Italy were to
join EG. It would be a risky proposition for Italy and probably
unwise, but it would be interesting.
What does anyone else see?
Karlis
Message from Germany to Russia
> I wouldn't. I'll listen to what you have to say, for the few years I'm
> around, but I'd be very surprised if either of us is around long enough
> to work together.
Whoa. I see you have trouble in the south also. Interesting.
Well we both might not be around long, or that could be wrong. I
wouldn't be surprised if everyone we fight against today is our ally
tomorrow.
Fredd
Message from Austria to Turkey
So far, so good. I'll be building eastward-looking armies. If it's not
too early, I propose an initial division of southern Russia, with you
taking Sev and Rum, while I take War and Mos. Later, it will probably be
best to swap Rum for Greece, giving you a stronger front against Italy.
As you can probably tell, I was able to arrange for Italy not to attack me
last turn. The army in Tyrolia has all sorts of threats; while one of
those threats is to Austria-Hungary, that's better than Venice, where its
only threat was against Austria-Hungary.
Assuming you build a fleet in Smyrna, I should be able to convince Italy
that I am helping him against you while helping you to "guess correctly"
to hold him off until you've picked off a Russian center or two. If
you're uncomfortable with that approach, please let me know now so that we
can work out an alternative.
Tamara, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Germany to England
I also got a note from Russia. He's pissed at me as can be
expected. Guess he bears no responsibility for moving that army to STP
in the first place?
I'm off to work. Talk tomorrow probably. No time tonight.
I believe it's time to plan an attack on France.
I'll be building an army and a fleet.
Fredd
Message from Austria to Russia
You are entitled to some explanation. The Archduke was very
uncomfortable with your waffling about putting an army into Rumania.
Turkey had already approached our envoy there about a joint attack on
you, but AT is not an alliance that springs to mind as comfortable or
easy. Nevertheless, when you told me you hadn't decided between an army
or fleet in Rum, the Archduke thought that meant the army was coming,
and felt forced to accept Turkey's proposal.
I expect that we will have opportunities to reach peace soon; rest
assured I consider that a very viable option. Regardless of the state
of military relations between our nations, I hope that diplomatic
channels will remain open.
Ralassa, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Germany to France
Prince Boar:
Russia is upset with me. I'm actually quite happy that he had a
setback in the south. For some reason he doesn't seem to think that
moving an army to STP, would bother me. Obviously he must have thought
that my next builds should come from France. As there is no other
place.
I do accept full responsibility for England being in Belgium. I
thought the chances that he would go there were very slim. And I had
no prior warning from him that he would go there. Much like I had no
prior warning that Russia was going to STP. (And look where that got
him)
I'll be building a fleet in Berlin and an army in Kiel. MY next
target is Sweden.
The EFG dynamics just got more intense. That English army has to go
one way or the other, or it has to go away. Luckily we don't have to
make that decision until after the builds. You have my builds.
Obviously we'll see an English fleet in London and LVN or EDI.
It'll probably be over 24 hours until I can get back to you again.
Part of the reason that I haven't been totally communicative is that I'm
spending hugh chunks of time watching the TDF. Over two hours each
day. Thank God today is a rest day. But tomorrow there is over 4
hours of coverage.
What a climb Lance put in on stage 10. I was more excited than
watching the Superbowl.
Fredd
Message from Austria to Italy
All has gone well for us, so far.
At this point, I assume Russia is screaming about AT, and begging for your
help. I am not comfortable with an AT alliance, and you should have no
fears on that point; I would accept such an alliance only if I had no other
choice. I hope to keep Turkey at Russia's throat for another turn or two,
then stab him. If you are uncomfortable with that, I am willing to go after
him immediately, but I think that's a weaker option.
Idalia, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to England
Thank you for your kind remarks.
It would be nice to get some information about the situation in the west.
Will an alliance be able to make progress against France? The English
capture of Belgium appeared to indicate some EF cooperation, but England is
usually at a disadvantage in a long-term EF alliance unless Italy is strong
and firm against France from the south. I've seen no indication yet that
that is the case here.
It would be nice if St Petersburg were to fall to the English forces,
without the loss of Norway. At least, any retreat of the Russian army back
through Stp could be delayed by Nwy-StP this spring.
Edna, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to Turkey
> England is all for anti-Russian participation, and he predicts that Germany
> would be on board as well, at least at first. I've not heard from Germany
> himself however; have you?
I received one message from Germany before spring, and none since.
I fear that if Germany is as uncommunicative with others as he is with
Austria-Hungary, the west will fall too easily into an EF alliance, and the
endgame would be EF vs AT. Such an endgame does not favor Austria-Hungary.
I hope EF either doesn't form, or produces a midgame stab.
Tamara, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Austria to Italy
> Ven-Tyr it is then. I haven't heard from Germany for almost a week
> now. I'd prefer to have his approval before moving to Tyrolia.
> Perhaps my troop move north will wake him up and get him talking.
I haven't heard from Germany since before the spring moves. If he isn't
talking to anybody, an EF alliance will probably form, and you may need
to prop up Germany lest France get loose in the Med too soon.
For the spring, I suggest Tyr-Boh, as well as the Lepanto moves Ion-Eas,
Nap-Ion.
Idalia, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Italy to France
>
> Bold move my good man. What are your plans for the army
> in Tyrolia?
>
Mostly to wake Germany up and get him to answer my press.
> Thanks for not moving to Piedmont. I shall not build in
> Marseilles, as promised.
You are welcome and thank you in that order.
> Please do not build a fleet in
> Rome. That would upset the Dauphin. Is that a fair
> request? If not, let's discuss.
>
Order for a fleet in Naples is already in place. Hope this meets with your
approval.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Italy to Russia
>
> > Italy: Army Venice -> Tyrolia.
>
> Coming after Warsaw, or lending France a helping hand?
>
Neither. An attempt to wake Germany up and talk to me. I hadn't received a
communication from Berlin for over a week.
> Could I induce you to stab the traitorous Archduke at
> this point?
>
It's certainly possible depending on French and Turkish builds. If France
doesn't build in Marseilles and Turkey were, say, to build an army, I could
consider an Austrian stab at this point.
BTW, I received this from Germany just prior to the results.
> I'm not happy with an army in STP so soon. Certainly
> it's anti English, but ultimately it's anti German.
I didn't get the message in time to talk to him. Interesting to note
though, he considered the move anti-German. Why didn't he just think it was
pro-Italian and leave it at that? :)
Life is Beautiful, except when Spring 1901 results don't go your way
Roberto
Message from Italy to Germany
> So sorry, I thought that I had sent you a couple of
> replies. Looking at my mailbox that's not the case.
>
Not a problem. I had suspected you were busy socially.
I didn't read your messages until after the results came in although I doubt
anything would have changed.
Please have no fear of my army in Tyrolia. I'm committed to the Center
Alliance and mean you no ill-will. If it makes you completely
uncomfortable, I will retreat it back from whence it came but I prefer not
to. It seems most everybody is interested in what Tyrolia is up to and thus
provides me with excellent diplomatic opportunities.
Let's keep in touch for the spring moves.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to Austria
Ralassa,
Do you really expect me to believe that? (*Czar Nicholas
coughs quietly, "cough, bullshit, cough. Pardon me, the air is
dry here..."*) If the Archduke had such doubts, you should have
contacted me yesterday and asked if I had come to a decision
regarding Rumania, and, in any event, he should have respected
our agreed upon DMZ in Galicia. If you want to work with me, you
will have to build F Tri and A Vie, and order Gal-Bud in S1902M.
If you do not, I will throw my support and Centres to the Turk,
while encouraging Roberto to take advantage of your exposed
flank, and see the Archduke rapidly follow me into the growing
group of former hereditary rulers of European nations.
We are not yet at war, but we are on the very brink. If
the Archduke feels that he can attack Russia since I only have
one Fleet and one Army in the south, please remind him of my
favorite aphorism, 'The pen is mightier than the sword.', and
consider what I can do to Austria-Hungary with my pen before
and after my military strength has been destroyed.
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Russia to France
Prince Boar,
>Nasty thing for Austria and Turkey to do to you.
Yes, I wonder who suggested it to them...
It was also pretty dumb of Turkey, in my opinion.
Austria can build in Bud, and take Rum while AI
move Fleets into EMed/Aeg, and Turkey's down to
three in '02.
>They made your pay for your bold move.
Perhaps it's my inexperience showing, but
I still don't view Mos-StP as particularly bold.
An AT Alliance is a stab waiting to happen, and
I doubt it will wait long in this situation.
>Germany chooses to bounce with both of us.
>I am sure that you are not happy with him.
I rather expected the move, that's why I
ordered StP-Fin. I am annoyed by his silence,
though. He wrote me for the first time since
the Spring Results, only two hours before the
Fall deadline. If he was so disturbed by
Mos-Stp, then he should have mentioned it
sooner than two hour before I moved StP-Fin.
Unless he starts writing more often, he's not
long for this world, whether I have two Units
in Scandinavia, or zero.
Cordially,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Turkey to Austria
Tamara,
> So far, so good. I'll be building eastward-looking armies. If it's not
> too early, I propose an initial division of southern Russia, with you
> taking Sev and Rum, while I take War and Mos. Later, it will probably be
> best to swap Rum for Greece, giving you a stronger front against Italy.
This sounds good to me. I'm already pretty well committed against Russia,
and if you feel Italy is in hand then I'm happy to continue in that
direction.
> As you can probably tell, I was able to arrange for Italy not to attack me
> last turn. The army in Tyrolia has all sorts of threats; while one of
> those threats is to Austria-Hungary, that's better than Venice, where its
> only threat was against Austria-Hungary.
So you knew about the move? Interesting. I guess that is good, since it
means Tyr wasn't as anti-Austrian as it looked.
> Assuming you build a fleet in Smyrna, I should be able to convince Italy
> that I am helping him against you while helping you to "guess correctly"
> to hold him off until you've picked off a Russian center or two. If
> you're uncomfortable with that approach, please let me know now so that we
> can work out an alternative.
My concern is that a fleet in Smy would do nothing to help my anti-Russian
efforts, and it would also give me problems with Italy that I'm not prepared
for yet. I had hoped Russia would actually bounce me in the Black so I
could pick up Rum and have more flexibility. Anyway, I think I'd be better
off building A Ank and moving it into Armenia. If Italy stays off my back,
then I'll be in good shape to hit Sev this year. What do you think? Does
this work for you?
> I fear that if Germany is as uncommunicative with others as he is with
> Austria-Hungary, the west will fall too easily into an EF alliance, and
the
> endgame would be EF vs AT. Such an endgame does not favor
Austria-Hungary.
> I hope EF either doesn't form, or produces a midgame stab.
I think it's too early to say how the West will shake out. It also seems
possible that EG will team up against both Russia and France. In some ways,
an EF might work better, since it would naturally put pressure on Russia,
Germany and Italy, which could be good for AT in the long run. Much will
depend on timing, and on how well we are able to coordinate our efforts and
grow together.
Anyway, as you said, it's a good start. Thank you for keeping your promise,
it goes a long way toward cementing AT relations.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
Thanks for your words of encouragement. I was nervous about whether or not
Austria would come through, but sometimes you gotta roll the dice. Looks
like I won this round, but the night is young yet, so to speak, and the dice
may be loaded.
I, too, am hopeful that as the game progresses we can do more and more to
help advance each other's fortunes. You seem to be in great shape; two
builds and your choice of allies (or so it seems from here). If you reach a
decision one way or another, and if there are any diplomatic efforts I might
employ to further those goals, you have but to write.
Italy is indeed a mystery. I do wish he wrote more often. Anything you
could glean of his intentions would be most welcome. I will gladly do the
same in return if I can pry anything out of France or Germany. France
shrouds his press with a cloak and dagger, and Germany is a man of few
words, but I am determined to engage each in a dialogue eventually.
Meanwhile, I'll be continuing on my anti-Russian course. I hope that you
and/or Germany will also be taking your share of the Russian pie, and I look
forward to discussing any thoughts you may have along this line.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to France
Prince Boar,
An interesting result in the west. I rather expected you to gain Belgium;
I'm sorry to see your apparent problems with the German. Fortunately
Germany doesn't seem to talk much, so you may have a good chance swaying
England. It will be interesting to watch events unfold in your neck in the
woods; something tells me all may not be as it seems.
All is pretty much as it seems in the south. I ultimately decided that
Russian policies were not in Turkey's best interests. I have a nagging
feeling that I'm just opening myself up to a Leponto, but based on Russia's
moves I have to say I made the right decision. Just a little too
pro-Austrian there for my tastes.
So, the Turkish cat is out of the bag, and now I get to find out where it
leads me. I hope you'll send some fresh news of the confusing situation in
the west.
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
An interesting result. Can you shed any light on the Tyr move? That could
work well for our plans of working together. Austria is encouraging me to
continue against Russia, but wants me to build F Smy. Apparently I should
rely on his goodwill to gain Russian centers. My plan is to instead build A
Ank, selling this to Austria on the grounds that I must strike Russia first,
and that I don't want trouble from you.
You said earlier that F Nap is the only sensible build for you. I must
confess that I'm feeling increasingly nervous about it, so I hope we can
talk about it a little. Building an army in Ank and moving it to Arm will
work well for me; unless of course you go through with the Leponto. I've
been encouraged by our discussions, but I hate to leave myself open to
devastating attacks, and the Leponto would indeed be devastating to me.
Austria has said he's building "eastward-looking armies" this turn. I've
been playing dumb regarding AI relations, so my sense is he probably
believes things are well in hand. If you were to build A Ven, his plans
would be in a shambles. I can then support you to Greece in the spring and
we're off to the races.
If you build F Nap instead, then the only move that's really in keeping with
IT would be Ion-Adr, Nap-Ion. This would still allow you the convoy to
Greece in the fall, but I don't think it would give you the same advantage
against Austria proper that an army in Ven would, and it would delay your
move to Greece by a turn.
I'm banking a lot on the idea that you and I are going to be allied going
forward. I think things are well under way, with AR conflict out in the
open and Russia already in trouble. I'm prepared to start building armies,
as we had discussed. I think it's clear that I'm not threatening Italy in
any way. If you ally with Austria, he'll always be working against you
behind your back (like urging me to build F Smy). So I continue to hope
you'll choose a friend in Turkey instead.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Russia
Czar Nicholas,
> Are you sure that was wise? Now Austria builds A Bud and takes Rum,
> while AI move to Aeg and EMed in the Spring, and we're both toast. I
> decided late that I had to move Sev-Rum so that I could build A War, and
> have War and Ukr in place to deal with Vie-Gal, but now it seems that's
> going to be more difficult than I thought. What made you decide to hand
> the East to AI?
I have to confess, I'm not at all comfortable with the way things have
worked out. I realize that an AI alliance now would mean the end of me. So
I should probably start by saying that I'm always open to turning things
around between us if that's what makes sense for both of us.
As to why... the main reason was that you weren't really offering me
anything as an ally. I can understand your needing to deal with the
situation in the north, but I got the feeling I couldn't count on any help
from Russia in the south. And there's no way I can get anywhere against AI
without Russian help. I was seeking active cooperation with one of my
neighbors, and Austria was the one who offered it.
As you know, your southern fleet is a big issue to me. I can't go
gallavanting off into the Med with a foreign fleet in my very back yard.
The impression I got was that you didn't really want to see that fleet gone,
and I there was just no way I could ignore it. Perhaps I put too much stock
in that one issue, but it gave me the sense that you weren't really on board
with the RT as I had hoped you would be. My suspicion was that you were
hoping for AIR vs. T to take me out quickly, which I certainly had to avoid
at all costs.
Also, I was worried about things being a little too cozy between you and
Austria. It seems these concerns were justified, based on your moves.
Whatever concerns you might have had regarding Gal, it's clear that moving F
Sev to Rumania is about the most pro-Austrian thing you could have done. I
shudder to think what you were planning to build in Sev.
In any case, what's done is done. Unfortunately my options are much more
limited than I had hoped for after the first year, and if I'm unable to head
off a Leponto then I'll be in real trouble. But be that as it may, my gut
reaction after seeing the moves is that I did the right thing. Of course,
we all know that things can change quickly, and if so I will certainly be
open to re-negotiations down the road.
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Germany
Freddy,
Thank you so much for your help in the north. I'm glad the Austrian kept
his word; with any luck Russia won't be giving either of us any trouble in
this game.
I'm dying to see how things shake out in the West. Everyone's being real
cautious, and nobody's even given a hint of their intentions to me yet.
>From what I hear, I gather that the three of you aren't so sure about it
either. For what it's worth, I'm encouraging England to work with you to
resolve Scandinavia and northern Russia. One way or the other, I hope
you'll get your slice of the Russian pie before Austria becomes too fat and
happy.
Of course, I'm still contending with the possibility that I may face a
Leponto after all. This would be disastrous to me, and unfortunately I
don't have a good enough sense of the Italian to know what I should prepare
for (or the Austrian for that matter). Barring Italian hostility, however,
I'm planning to focus next year on continuing my anti-Russian efforts.
I hope all is well in your neck of the woods, and I hope you'll write soon
with your thoughts on the above.
Ali Baba
Message [from Russia] to all
"The St. Petersburg Pravda"
Oct. 1901
An high-level source in the Foreign Ministry today
provided details of a secret treaty made late this Spring
with Austria-Hungary which Archduke Ferdinand has just
callously violated.
> > I would ask that we declare Galicia a DMZ in 1901
> > Is this acceptable to you, and Austria-Hungary?
>
> In the interest of good relations with a neighbor
> who has shown no ill-will toward my country, I
> will agree to keep Galicia inviolate this year
>
> I hope this minor degree of cooperation will pave
> the way for even more beneficial cooperation in
> the near future.
>
> Ralassa, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of
> Archduke Ferdinand
Clearly our Czar has made a grave error in judgment
in believing that the government of Austria-Hungary can be
trusted to honor even the simplest agreements. It is our
hope that the other nations of Europe, and prospective EEU
members, will realize this too, and respond appropriately.
Message from Observer to Observer
What does anyone think of the recent Russian broadcast (accuses
Austria of lying about a DMZ in Galicia)?
I can't figure whether it's bad news more for Austria or for Russia.
It's not good news for Austria. It hurts his reputation a bit to be
publicly caught in a lie this early. On the other hand, I've heard
that many players lie in the opening phase of Diplomacy, so perhaps
it won't hurt him so much.
There is also the possibility that Russia's broadcast could
backfire. Some players do not like press-passing since a player that
passes press might be passing their press also. Alternatively, some
players could view his broadcast as a sign of desperation, the
thinking being that if Russia's diplomacy was going well, this
broadcast would have been unnecessary.
I still don't think Russia will be the first player eliminated.
Assuming the broadcast is sincere (and assuming that Russia was in
fact the one who sent it) and AR relations stay sour, the alliance
structure possibilities are fewer. Italian and Turkish alliance
options remain open, but the powerful AR alliance is ruled out. That
forces Austria to have to ally with Italy or Turkey, thus weakening
Austria's diplomatic leverage and strengthening Italy's and Turkey's
diplomatic leverage. Of course, by publicly stating that AR is out,
Russia's own diplomatic leverage also takes a hit.
Karlis
Message from England to Russia
Nicky,
I was wondering which of your southern neighbors was the betrayer.
Austria, huh? We will watch him.
More importantly, I must decide to be for ya or again ya in Scandinavia.
For ya is anti-German and presumable pro France. Again ya is pro-German
and presumably anti-France. Over simplified perhaps, but possibly
accurate.
Anyway, don't be overly despondent. I am very seriously considering
supporting you into Sweden. Please don't ask me for my decision quickly.
I must listen carefully to France and Germany, and I don't think spring
moves will be due until Monday.
Ivy Wingo
Message from Observer to Observer
povisils@y... wrote:
> Assuming the broadcast is sincere (and assuming that Russia was in
> fact the one who sent it) ...
That was my first question. Personally, I primarily only play gunboat
no-press games, so I'm not totally clear on the differences between
types of press.
Is this game grey press?
Does that mean that someone other than Russia could have posted this
message?
I am enjoying the commentary and hope to learn from it. Please keep it
up.
Jamie
Message from England to France
Prince,
My office computer is still in the hands of the computer folks, taking
longer than thay said. I'm at home now, since I can't work in the office.
I better get out a brief note to you now before the modem acts up.
>We should discuss a plan of approach for the builds and
>the coming year.
I'm assuming fleets in London and Edinburgh for me and a fleet in Brest and
an army in Paris for you.
The moves will probably be due on Monday, so we can give a lot of thought
to tactics. If I can get Holland, you can move into Belgium. That may be
tough, for I expect Germany to have armies in Holland, Ruhr, and Munich.
Maybe you can talk him out of that. Another possibility is French/Italian
cooperation on Munich in the fall.
>I feel that it might be best for you to
>focus on getting Russia on board for a REF attack on
>Germany.
OK. One would guess that Russia would do anything I suggest that is anti-German.
>I will instead focus on being friendly with
>Germany, hoping to make it easier for us to press our
>armies forward.
Of course, I cannot go silent with Germany. It should be easy to find
something to say. We can then compare notes.
>I would like to see Germany build a fleet in Berlin rathe
>than Kiel. I assume that you prefer that as well.
Absolutely. And I fully expect that. He will want to use it to take Sweden.
>Meanwhile, I will also find out what is up with Italy.
I have put feelers out in that direction also. Roberto talked to be quite
a bit before the start of the game, but he has said very little lately.
>Meetings, Meetings, meetings.
I've been there.
Ivy
Message from Observer to Observer
--- In vgfp_titleist@y..., James McQuinn <mag_jamie@d...> wrote:
> That was my first question. Personally, I primarily only play
gunboat
> no-press games, so I'm not totally clear on the differences between
> types of press.
>
> Is this game grey press?
Yes. Grey press is allowed, but white is allowed also. So a player
must make a conscious decision to send grey press (by adding the
word "grey" after "press to x", IIRC).
> Does that mean that someone other than Russia could have posted this
> message?
Yes. The whole thing could be completely fabricated, but I don't
think it's likely. However, if Russia did write it, why did he send
it grey?
I think if it were faked, the writer would not have bothered
pretending to duplicate forwarded press. Austria appears to have
been caught in a rather pedestrian lie, not some giant betrayal. The
fowarded press fragment doesn't really add anything to the broadcast.
Karlis
Message from England to Germany
Good Freddy,
> I also got a note from Russia. He's pissed at me as can be
>expected. Guess he bears no responsibility for moving that army to STP
>in the first place?
>I'm off to work. Talk tomorrow probably. No time tonight.
>
>I believe it's time to plan an attack on France.
>I'll be building an army and a fleet.
A fleet in Berlin nets you Sweden this year.
Let's see if I can give you something to think about. France is trying to
coordinate an EFR attack on Germany, possibly with a little boost from
Italy. France wants to build up Russia, so Russia can help. Uh-huh. Sure.
I can see why France wants a viable Russia, but I sure don't want that.
Russia's demise reduces our neighbors by one and makes you and me more
secure. And as we have observed many times, Russia is a natural partner
for France once one of us is gone.
Russia must go. The best result would be for us to grab both Sweden and
StP this year.
France itself will be a tough nut to crack. He will defend the boundary
with Germany with armies in Marseilles, Burgundy, and Picardy. He will
build a second fleet in Brest. We can crack his defense only if I get a
edge on him at sea or if Italy helps. I must force the channel. One more
fleet build might be necessary. That's why I am eyeing StP.
One thing is certain. You will get Sweden this year.
Ivy
Message from Russia to Turkey
> I'm always open to turning things around between
> us if that's what makes sense for both of us.
I think that it does, but I suppose builds
will tell the tale.
> I can understand your needing to deal with the
> situation in the north, but I got the feeling I
> I couldn't count on any help from Russia in the
> south.
Hmmm, that certainly wasn't my intention.
> your southern fleet is a big issue to me. The
> impression I got was that you didn't really want
> to see that fleet gone,
I offered a way to destroy it in Spring
1902 that you rejected because it would have left
you vulnerable to the Lepanto. What more could I
have done, beyond agreeing to the Slingshot, and
finding an English Army knocking on my palace
doors this Spring?
> Whatever concerns you might have had regarding
> Gal, it's clear that moving F Sev to Rumania is
> about the most pro-Austrian thing you could
> have done. I shudder to think what you were
> planning to build in Sev.
It's ironic. Austria claims he supported
you to Rum because I refused to rule out moving
Ukr-Rum, and I finally decided to move Sev-Rum
because I suspected that he would order Vie-Gal,
and I wanted A War and A Ukr to face it. If you
had trusted me enough to order Bul-Gre, and
Germany had not bounced me out of Swe, I would
have built A War and A Sev.
I do admit that I was toying with AIR
vs. T, but as time went on I was leaning more
and more toward RT. At this point, I view
Austria's violation of our DMZ of Gal as more
egregious, and so I am fully prepared to defend
myself against him, and support you if you move
against him. A Build of anything other than
F Smy invites Ion-EMed, Gre-Aeg, as you know.
It's your decision to make.
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Italy to Turkey
>
> An interesting result. Can you shed any light on the Tyr
> move? That could work well for our plans of working together.
>
The move to Tyrolia was made for several reasons:
I hadn't heard from Germany despite repeated attempts by me for dialogue and
suspected he might move Mun-Tyr. I was not prepared to deal with that and
so took the aggressive position of heading there myself half-way expecting a
bounce.
I am anticipating a EF alliance based on Germany's lack of press and the
fact that EF send LOTS of press. If they send lots to me, imagine how much
they send to each other. I thought one of the ways of influencing their
decisions against Germany was to get a unit close by. Now I can use the
unit to support actions for or against Germany depending on what I think is
best.
It was Austria's first choice for what he wanted my unit to do. I'm playing
a little dumb right now but really I'm setting him up for a fall, with your
assistance. As you point out, an Italian army in Tyrolia could work well
for us.
> Austria is encouraging me to
> continue against Russia, but wants me to build F Smy.
He probably thinks I'll see a fleet in Smy as anti-Italian and he'd be able
to argue for continuing the Lepanto. In reality, that's not the case and
I'd see F Smy as moving to the Aegean in anticipation of an Austrian attack
(although I think an army build would be better vis-a-vis our long-term
agreement of Italy building fleets and Turkey building armies).
> Apparently I should rely on his goodwill to gain Russian centers.
Yes, fleet Smyrna doesn't help much if your intent is to continue against
Russia. Those two do appear to be polar opposites.
> My plan is to instead build A
> Ank, selling this to Austria on the grounds that I must
> strike Russia first, and that I don't want trouble from you.
>
This makes sense to me but I don't know how Austria would respond. He'd
probably question himself as to why you'd leave yourself so open to Italy in
the Eastern Med.
> You said earlier that F Nap is the only sensible build for
> you. I must confess that I'm feeling increasingly nervous
> about it, so I hope we can talk about it a little.
I'm always willing to talk. I will try to be as honest and up-front as
possible. I realize that deception is part of this game (see Russia's
latest broadcast), but it's difficult to ally with somebody (long-term that
is) so obviously deceptive as Austria.
> Building an army in Ank and moving it to Arm will
> work well for me; unless of course you go through with the
> Leponto.
>
If you build an army, I will not go thru with the Lepanto. If France does
not build a fleet in Marseilles as well, then I will be free to discuss an
Austrian attack. The details of the attack (ie: what unit takes Greece in
what season and such) can be fine tuned when we see the rest of the builds.
For now, I'm anticipating an early split of Tri/Gre to Italy and Rum/Sev to
Turkey. I'm sure it won't work out quite like that but that seems at least
a reasonable starting place for negotiations.
>
> Austria has said he's building "eastward-looking armies" this turn.
>
He's told me the same thing. I'm expecting Vie and Bud. I'd question him
hard if he built in Tri.
> I've been playing dumb regarding AI relations,
> so my sense is he probably
> believes things are well in hand.
>
I get the same sense. I also get the sense that he's trying to get me to
somehow leave Venice undefended so he can move there when he wants.
>
> If you build F Nap instead, then the only move that's really
> in keeping with IT would be Ion-Adr, Nap-Ion.
>
Which is the move that I would most likely make. There are other
alternatives including convoying to Albania.
> This would still allow you the convoy to
> Greece in the fall, but I don't think it would give you the
> same advantage
> against Austria proper that an army in Ven would, and it
> would delay your move to Greece by a turn.
>
I'm not concerned about delaying the move to Greece until the Fall. After
all, if I moved there in the spring, it would get to retreat somewhere most
likely Albania which would make it that much more difficult to also get
Trieste next fall.
Bottom line, you can expect me to build a fleet in Naples. I've told this
to whomever else has asked as well. If I were to alter that, then I'd have
several others questioning my reliability.
Keep in touch and feel free to comment, positive or negative, on whatever
I've said.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Observer to Observer
At 07:29 PM 7/19/2001 +0000, you wrote:
>What does anyone think of the recent Russian broadcast (accuses
>Austria of lying about a DMZ in Galicia)?
>
>I can't figure whether it's bad news more for Austria or for Russia.
>It's not good news for Austria. It hurts his reputation a bit to be
>publicly caught in a lie this early. On the other hand, I've heard
>that many players lie in the opening phase of Diplomacy, so perhaps
>it won't hurt him so much.
Well, if Austria told his neighbors that he was going to mislead Russia,
then I don't see this as surprising for anyone. I think you are correct, it
gives I/T leverage to open new negotiations with Russia -- even if they
were previously aware of the lie -- but it might not hurt Austria's
standings at all in their eyes. So I see it as good news for Russia's other
neighbors and am unclear on the impact to A or R.
--- Eric
Message from Italy to Austria
>
> All has gone well for us, so far.
>
I agree. I am most pleased.
> At this point, I assume Russia is screaming about AT, and
> begging for your help.
Actually, not as much as I had expected. He was very calm and took his
beating like a gentleman. He did inquire as to whether or not my army in
Tyrolia was available to stab the traitorous, scum-sucking Archduke.
> I am not comfortable with an AT alliance, and you
> should have no fears on that point;
I don't. You'd have Turkey at your back all game and come the end-game it
would be too easy for you to get squeezed out of the final decision.
> I hope to keep Turkey at Russia's throat for another
> turn or two, then stab him. If you are uncomfortable
> with that, I am willing to go after
> him immediately, but I think that's a weaker option.
>
That should be fine. I don't really want to see Turkey get another build
though. And I'm also a bit interested in acquiring another fleet as
protection against a growing France. I have a hunch he's going to come out
on top in the West. If I can't successfully divert him into England, it's
going to be difficult to finish off Turkey if we wait too long.
> For the spring, I suggest Tyr-Boh, as well as the Lepanto moves
> Ion-Eas, Nap-Ion.
I'll hold off on committing my units until I see the builds. For instance,
should Germany build two fleets, I'd feel much more comfortable about moving
my army out of Tyrolia. Should he build two armies, then Tyr-Boh coupled
with Mun-Tyr would be devasting to me and he'd be much more likely to make
that move if he had two new armies to cover Munich.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
I guess the bottom line is this. If I build A Ank, will you firmly commit
to moving against Austria in the spring, either with Ion-Adr or Tri-Alb?
My strong preference is for the army build, but I have to have something
solid to go by before I can decide that for sure. I realize that even with
just a promise I could still get screwed if the promise is broken, but it
would go a long way in helping to ease my concerns.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
>Meanwhile, I'll be continuing on my anti-Russian course. I hope that you
>and/or Germany will also be taking your share of the Russian pie, and I look
>forward to discussing any thoughts you may have along this line.
You and Austria have probably discussed this, but (a) I think you are due
Rumania, while Austria goes for Warsaw. Also, (b) the only way to take
Rumania without scaring Austria is with your fleet.
See, I like to work on other's strategy when mine is too complicated.
Ivy Wingo
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
Sorry, I should have read more carefully. Let me rephrase my last press.
> If you build an army, I will not go thru with the Lepanto. If France does
> not build a fleet in Marseilles as well, then I will be free to discuss an
> Austrian attack. The details of the attack (ie: what unit takes Greece in
> what season and such) can be fine tuned when we see the rest of the
builds.
> For now, I'm anticipating an early split of Tri/Gre to Italy and Rum/Sev
to
> Turkey. I'm sure it won't work out quite like that but that seems at
least
> a reasonable starting place for negotiations.
This gives me the assurance I need. I understand your need to see what
France does before committing to anti-Austrian efforts. In any case, let us
solidify this position: that if I build an army, you agree not to send any
fleet to Aeg or EMS. Agreed?
Please advise.
Ali Baba
Message from Observer to Observer
First, Austria knows for sure whether the "Russian" broadcast is real or
fake. Austria knows what he wrote the Russian, and if the quote of the note
is accurate, Austria knows that the Russian sent the broadcast. If we assume
that the note is accurately quoted, i.e., that the Russian sent it, then it
seems like a fair assumption that AR are at war, and will remain so. By now
they may both be pissed at one another. Which can only bring benefits to the
other players later on. Is either A or R the kind of player that holds a
grudge? It could be very hard for them to work rationally later on if the
other's welfare is at stake. I think that the note spells bad news for both
of them if it's real.
Second, if the note is not accurate, both R and A know it. So who would
benefit from a fake note? I can't think of anyone, but maybe I am dense.
Third, I have considered the possibility that AR are working together and
just pretending to be fighting. But with the loss of Rum, I can't imagine
how the Russian could have agreed to such a plan. And if AR are faking the
war, they both deserved to be the champion. That kind of trickery is way
beyond me.
Message from Italy to Turkey
> In any case, let us solidify this position:
> that if I build an army, you agree not to send any
> fleet to Aeg or EMS. Agreed?
>
Agreed.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Italy to England
>
> You are going to receive a LOT of mail now.
>
Indeed, I had six emails (in addition to the broadcasts) in my inbox this
morning. How refreshing that somebody actually cares about little ol'
Italy. Life is indeed beautiful. Oh, dang, you mean I have to spend all
day replying to those emails. Oh well, the price we must pay.
> So, once again, I seek information on Italian intentions.
I seem to have a good thing going out east and would hate to waste what
seems like a glorious opportunity. When I look west, all I see are
countries with 5 units. I don't see nearly that many units when I view my
eastern horizon. As candid as I can get, I think the pickin's are easier to
the east.
Now, if, and it's a big if, I could get assurance from Germany, in writing,
that he wanted to take on France, I might change my mind. As you point out,
he's a poor communicator. I didn't receive anything from him prior to the
fall moves until 3 hours before the deadline. Sorry, didn't get that one in
time. One of the reasons I'm in Tyrolia now.
Feel free to spill the English intentions anytime you like. :)
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message [from Russia] to all
> Broadcast message from masseyd@btv.ibm.com as Master in 'titleist':
>the Showcase article for this game.
In games that I Master, I urge the players to write an EoY (End of Year)
statement, or statements, during the Adjustment Phase each year. Some
players Broadcast in-character "State of the Union" speeches, which would be
fun for the Observers, but if we each send Doug a note each year revealing
why we made the choices we did, it will make the Showcase much more
instructive for people to read later. Why has Austria attacked Russia when
Russia opened to Ukraine, and tried to take Rumania with a Fleet? Why did
England risk no Builds, and get two? Why did France and Germany bounce in
Burgundy in the Spring AND the Fall? Why is Italy in Tyrolia? Why did
Russia choose a Northern Opening? If Turkey wanted to attack Russia, why
didn't he open to Armenia? Some of these questions might be addressed in
EoGs, but others will be overlooked, and the answers may reveal the
differences between victory and defeat.
Message from Turkey to Master
> In games that I Master, I urge the players to write an EoY (End of
Year)
> statement, or statements, during the Adjustment Phase each year. Some
> players Broadcast in-character "State of the Union" speeches, which would
be
> fun for the Observers, but if we each send Doug a note each year revealing
> why we made the choices we did, it will make the Showcase much more
> instructive for people to read later.
Do you support this? If so, let me know and I'll start sending EOY
statements.
Thanks.
Message from Russia to England
> I was wondering which of your southern neighbors was the betrayer.
> Austria, huh? We will watch him.
Turkey and I agreed to a DMZ of Bla a few days ago, but it wasn't
formal, and he was understandably nervous about my Fleet, so I don't
blame him for his moves. Austria, however, obviously said to himself,
"Mos-StP, huh? I can take advantage of that!", and then had the gaul
to claim it was done in self-defense because I refused to commit to
Sev-Rum right after the Spring moves, and violate a formal agreement
besides. Oddly enough, I moved Sev-Rum because I suspected that
Austria would order Vie-Gal, and I wanted to build in War to have
War and Ukr vs. Gal. I didn't expect Turkey to accept Austria's
support though. It was destined to bounce, and leaves Austria in a
much stronger position than Turkey.
> More importantly, I must decide to be for ya or again ya in Scandinavia.
If you're against me it is likely to result in quick Austrian domination
in the East, and he's already planning to build Fleets. While a strong
Austria is generally good for England, quick domination by a Power on
one side of the board is never good for the Powers on the other side.
> Anyway, don't be overly despondent.
I'm not. The Fall Results very nearly matched my worst-case
scenario, (thank you for not ordering Yor-Nth-Nwy, Nwg-Bar),
so I was rather stunned and depressed this morning, but looking
over the possibilities has revived my spirits, somewhat. AT is the
most unstable alliance possible, so I expect that things will shift
pretty quickly. Whether it will be quickly enough to save me,
remains to be seen, however. 8-)
> I am very seriously considering supporting you into Sweden.
> Please don't ask me for my decision quickly.
No, much will depend on builds. How many Fleets will FG
build, do you think? Indeed, what AGIT build will have a strong
influence on my 1902 moves, and I could even end up ordering
GoB S Nwy-Swe next Fall under certain circumstances.
> I must listen carefully to France and Germany,
Any information you would care to share would be welcomed.
(Like who didn't lobby Germany to bounce me... 8-)
Your Put-Upon Friend,
Nick.
Message from Germany to England
Ivy
I thought that France was trying to get a FGR going. I guess he'll
tell anything to anyone. Can you believe it...
I suggest that you build a fleet in LVN. Certainly France will put
another fleet in Brest. And the one in Portugal will move out to the
MAO this year. Next fall will tell the tale on whether you'll need
heavy defenses in the western seas. A fleet already stationed there
will do wonders to deter French expansion northward.
Sweden isn't a sure thing. There are still two Russian units to deal
with. We are surrounded my friend. I think that we have to go in both
directions simultaneously. I'll take the lead in Scandanavia, while you
take the lead in France. Just like your original plan.
Fredd
Message from Germany to Italy
Roberto:
I'm not overly concerned with your army in Tyrolia. Although England
tells me that France is trying to get you to use it against me. I guess
the plan is for EFI to carve me up. Oh well that plan is sure to be
brought up by someone. The question is will it be enacted. The
trouble with it is that who gets what and what happens after I'm carved
up. I know that it'll be exceptionally difficult for Italy to hold onto
any gains gotten from the Germany homeland, with England and France
holding the other pieces of Germany.
I do wonder what you're planning on doing with it? You seem to be
working with Austria fairly well. Still heading east into Russian
territory?
Fredd
Message from Germany to Turkey
I can see now why Russia opened to the north. He was expecting no
resistance in the south. Almost got it to. I, for one, am glad that
things went the way that they did.
I still can't help much. I haven't talked to Austria in days. Italy a
little more, but he just asks questions and gives no answers or
insight. I would worry about that Italian army in Tyrolia, but I think
he knows that he can never hang onto it. If he takes it England or
France will take it back. Probably France (down the road) I'm sure he
knows what will happen if there is a strong France in the east.
Certainly Italy will go toward you or France. I have no idea which
way. Past experience says it'll be toward you. But I don't guess well.
Fredd
Message from Germany to Russia
>
> "The St. Petersburg Pravda"
> Oct. 1901
>
> An high-level source in the Foreign Ministry today
>....
I see now why you came north. You were expecting no resistance in the
south. I'd say that your plan was to build two. Rumania and Sweden.
Then go for Norway. Possibly sending an army toward Berlin.
Tell me that I'm wrong.
That's water under the bridge now. But like I said, it's not out of
the question that we'll work together in the future. Suppose E and F
get together. Wouldn't I want Russian help at my back? Of course I
would. Naturally I'm trying to figure out England's and France's
plans. Do you have anything that you can tell me about their plans?
For instance did your plan call for you to partition Germany between
yourself and France?
Fredd
Message from Italy to Germany
> I'm not overly concerned with your army in Tyrolia.
> Although England tells me that France is trying to
> get you to use it against me.
>
Don't believe everything you hear. France has not asked for any Italian
cooperation on the German front. And if he did, I would politely decline.
England's forte seems to be hear-say.
> I guess the plan is for EFI to carve me up. Oh well
> that plan is sure to be brought up by someone.
>
This is news to me. There has been no talk of EFI vs G. You're the first
to bring it up. I'll mention it to them if you like. :)
> I do wonder what you're planning on doing with it?
> You seem to be working with Austria fairly well.
> Still heading east into Russian territory?
>
That is the current plan although a lot depends on the builds. Tyrolia is
pretty much a free unit for me at the moment and I'm willing to use it to
support your position. As you point out, holding German homeland would be
extremely difficult if not impossible for me and the last thing I want to
see is EF taking over Berlin.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to Germany
Fredd,
> I see now why you came north. You were expecting no resistance in the
> south. I'd say that your plan was to build two. Rumania and Sweden.
> Then go for Norway. Possibly sending an army toward Berlin.
> Tell me that I'm wrong.
You're wrong. I was hoping for two, but I actually expected you to
bounce me, and moved Mos-StP-Fin so that I could take Swe in '02,
and influence the west. I had no firm plans for my builds, but figured to
use them both in the south unless the situation in Scandinavia demanded
a build in StP. Given that the west seemed likely to end up EF vs. G, I
was actually thinking to take Nwy to slow their ability to eliminate you,
but that would have depended on what alliance formed in the west,
and how things were going there. Had you allied with England, I most
likely would have just supported myself in Swe. Had you asked, I
would have even told you this beforehand.
> I'm trying to figure out England's and France's plans. Do you have
> anything that you can tell me about their plans?
Based on what I've heard, the west is still, even now, up in the air.
There is a slight prejudice toward EF because they write more often,
but they also fear each other more.
Nick.
Message from Observer to Observer
>First, Austria knows for sure whether the "Russian" broadcast is real or
>fake. Austria knows what he wrote the Russian, and if the quote of the
>note
>is accurate, Austria knows that the Russian sent the broadcast.
<snip>
>Second, if the note is not accurate, both R and A know it. So who would
>benefit from a fake note? I can't think of anyone
<snip>
A nation upset about AT vs R, who would have preferred to see an
AR. The note may be intended to get A & R talking, encouraging
a "who did that to us? who doesn't want us allied?" feeling, as
the first step in getting them peaceful. It may backfire, but
since they're already fighting, someone may have felt it worth
the try.
Note that R could have sent the note with *fake* quotes in it, to
make A think it came from someone else. This makes sense if A
is ignoring press from R, and R wants to get talks going by
triggering a reaction from A.
Brian.
_________________________________________________________________
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Austria: BUILD Army Budapest
Austria: BUILD Army Vienna
England: BUILD Fleet Edinburgh
England: BUILD Fleet London
France: BUILD Fleet Brest
France: BUILD Army Paris
Germany: BUILD Fleet Berlin
Germany: BUILD Army Kiel
Italy: BUILD Fleet Naples
Turkey: BUILD Army Ankara
Centers
Austria: 5
England: 5
France: 5
Germany: 5
Italy: 4
Russia: 4
Turkey: 4
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