MP Fame and Riches - game ended, Numahr - Agartha won! [Archive]

Anaconda

October 25th, 2011, 08:57 PM

It was an exhausting afternoon in Machaka plateau, and Johannes Kurkunkastaja, the one walking in front of Him who is not to be mentioned nor looked upon, was fasting at the top of the hill looking over Forbidden Forest.

The prophet paid no mind to it first - Forbidden Forest was full of strange phenomena, and Johannes if anyone of was familiar with obscurities. Later that evening, however, the stench grew stronger. He knew already as he descended from the mountain that something was terribly a miss.

Down in the walley the first prophet met complete chaos among people; sobbing, crying, wailing. Some were on their knees stretching their arms to the sun, some pulling the hair from their own head, while some just sat on the ground with empty gaze in their eyes. Those strong and samrt enough had cut cloth an covered their faces with it. The foul, stenching wind had death within.

The prophet had no time nor interest for the smallfolk, no matter some againts their better judgement tried to seize him and his attention. Those poor things, as they werent suffering enough, were struck down without hesitation by his personal escort. They were the most feared of Machaka infantry, bane spiders bred and trainded in deep Forbiden Forest.

Even the place most holy was not safe, Johannes was horrified. There had been losses inside the holiest of the places, too. Most of the youngest boys laid sick, some already dying. After entering the temple of Him who should no be mentioned nor looked upon, Johannes was joined by catamites as he prepared a full night trance. Blood was bled, poison was served, fires were lighted. When sun went down, time was at hand.

Falling into the trance, Johannes collapsed on the floor and temple slaves helped his body to a divane located in the middle of the room of seremonies. All night Johannes was shaking and trembling, making sounds so unhumane that the youngest would have wetted their legs if they werent laying down them selves, sick and dying because of that ill wind. The prophet swetted the greystone divane so damp servant could squeeze water out if it.

Come morning, Johanne was wake before anyone else. Even the stronger ones standing guard next to him had fallen to fragile, shallow asleep. Johannes didnt mind, no matter those sleeping on guard should be whipped. The prophet was sick of fever but before he accepted some much as a claypot of fresh, cool water gathered from Forbidden Forest, he made the catamites summon a voice of the lord. He had things to share, and there was no time to spare.

Those abominations, they were somewhere out there - it had begun!

pakoito

October 26th, 2011, 08:23 AM

The first of the new born arose. There have been many internal fights between the Illithid houses, but only one prevailed. Aguadillas, the slithering terror, bane of the merman, first of his name, is eager to drink the blood of his enemies.

Numerous and unaware of whats coming to them, the crawling one is looking for an alliance with one of them to provides him with strength inland.

Anaconda

October 26th, 2011, 08:50 AM

The prophet had refused all pain aid before he could reunite again with the lesser priests. He only accepted fresh water from Forbidden Forest saying he would need his full mental potential until the gathering was over. Catamites cleaned his face and body with soaked rags to aid the body cool down. It was little help, but they didnt know what else they could try. Johannes was persistent with his decision.

When the priests started to gather, they made a circle around Johannes outside the temple. The sun was high, and air was hot. No peculiar smells remained. Johannes heard that people we getting their strenght back already. Those who were not dead. The losses were terrible, of course, but even worse was the growing suspicion and anger; how did He, whos name should not be mentioned, accept this to happen? People might be turning from the fait, was the mutual concer of the priests.

After hearing their worries, the prophet gently lifted his left arm - all the talk ceased. After a short silence Johannes spoke: "I did not summon you to worry me self with your trivial troubles. What they believe or do not believe concerns me little, and even less Him whos name shouldn not be spoken. The truth will reveal it self in time, and before that its your duty to make their faith grow stronger. But now you are hear to listen, not to talk."

And after making sure all voices of the lord were listening carefully, and catamites ready with their blank parchments, he began:

"There is a time of great peril ahead of us" he thundered!

"This peril is unlike anything we the chosen people have ever faced before. For reasons unknown to mortal soul, such as mine, we are now facing a trial. Powers as strong as His whos name should not be spoken have been rising, and I saw last night, true to my word, that they are at work here and now! But we will accept this trial, for we have no other choise. Listen carefully! There aint only one power challenging Him whos name should not be said, but SIX powers, and all these powers we need to face in order to pass the trial! I assure you, we will finish these challenges and pass!"

"What powers are these...." tried some young fool interrupt, but Johannes' gaze silenced him as quickly as he started is abrupt interrupt. "I am coming there" Johannes said.

"Know this; rich kings and mystics from a far away land in the East have arrived. I have seen they are the most rich of all people under the sun and they have cunning masters of wicked knowledge. The leader of the tribe is called with a fould name. He is 'Du Qiuniang' and he is the false prophet of a false god from the far East. While they are full of false, their gold is true and it buys true steel. And they have abominations with them; flying men!

Loud astonishement shook the circle of the priests. No mortal men could fly! Was the prophet of one and true god so sick with fever he was hallucinating? Johannes silenced them once more by lifting his skinny arm. "Their army aint that big yet, but the gold... its the gold that troubles me..." his voice fainted away, but as fast as the sound died he spoke up again:

"There are others, too, like I said. Two of these are gloomy men dressing only in black steel and carrying insignias of moon crescent with them, and pale one-eyed giants from the deepest gaves of the earth."

This made the priests laugh. Who would wear only steel? In the deep forests of Machaka they would die of exhaustion. That didnt make them afraid, and Johannes saw it. He spat: "You will laugh less when you see the strenght of their tower shields and feel the bite of their heavy hammers!"

"But surely no 1-eyed creatures can offer our archers a challenge" reasoned one of the youngest of the high ranking priests, the same one who had spoken before. That made even the oldest agree. The Machaka people had thousands of eyes in every forest, even in caves. No 1-eyed things no matter the size could beat that! "We will see" was all Johannes said. "But hold your tongues now, or my bane spiders make sure you will leave without them. There are still three powers I have not covered yet."

All eyes were on Johannes, when he told of the ape-folk. All Machaka knew the tales of the ape-folk were scary tales meant to make young ones eat their worm meals and drink soiled goat milk mixed with blood. "They do have some treacherous knowledge on astral matters I would worry a little" Johannes concluded, and continued that they were not that big of a trouble yet.

"They do, however, have some fearsome heroes. Rolf Magnus (which is a quite untypical name for an ape, he muttered for him self) and Dictatoress of Fashion (which aint that typical either, he kept muttering) are powerfull warriors for their false god. I have seen them faces in my slumber and they were horrible to behold. And especially because their names are so strange, I would be carefull with them, they might not be ordinary, stupid apes. However, I would worry more of the walking dead" he said, and let his gaze wonder on the faces of the audience.

No one spoke a word, they only stared back with disbelief in their eyes.

All of them were shocked, for dead made to live again was the unholiest of all unholy things under and above the sun. Then the young priest spoke again:

"Was this plague their doing? Surele it was, it had to!"

"No, there were no smell of rotting human flesh in that wind. It was a smell of dead fish that made our people sick and die" Johannes buried his face to his hands crying, as the bane spiders moved in to cut off the young priest's tongue.

Anaconda

October 26th, 2011, 11:07 AM

When the gathering was over and the high priests were off with their duties (one of the youngest without his tongue) the prophet Johannes Kurkunkastaja made the catamites write down the details
of what he had seen during his nightly trance.

Only one false god seem to be alive, it was the dead fish, a rising serpent with two heads. And on the each of the two heads there were written mocking names for the true believers. The dead fish seems to be spreading his influence fastest, making him the one that most worried Johannes. The dead fish's armies had conquered already five provinces, hinting the dead fish had got two field armies since the second moon, and the worm seemed to have strong aura of dominion, also. It was this smell of dead, rotting fish that made Machaka people sick and, if weak or sick already, die only in hours.

The other contestors seemed still be stirring in their slumber, based on the fact that no rumors of extremely powerfull entities with or without field armies had been spreading around yet, nor any significant research break throughs havent been made either.

While the dead fish's lands grew larger by every passing moon, the rich kings and mystics from the East were right after him. Johannes was right, he knew it, by stating that they bought their armies with endless mountains of gold. Mystics and kings from the East had also fielded two armies marching different directions. This endless wealth could only be a work of geniuos master of coins, and it proposes the kings and mystics from the East had a strong economical output in their lands.

The ape-folk, of who Machaka often ridiculed, were not a subject for laughters anymore. They seem to have over taxed their own people and had bought foreign mercenaries aid their own, weak infantry. They also had several raiding parties, it seemed, but what happens when the mercenary contracts end? Johannes also knew the ape-folk being paying over-price for their contracts, because he had made some contract inquiries him self. Because the mystics and kings of the East were so rich, maybe they were up for some mercenary contracts after the ape-folk lost their extra cash? The ape-folk and the mystics from the East seemed to have claimed four territories, placing them second larges nations just after the dead fish, who had five.

Other people seemed to remain carefull and modest conquering simply single territories, one after another. They now hold three provinces. Slow motion was of course the safest way, but it also surrenders leverage to those who field several different armies at the same time. It would remain to be seen how long the top three contestors could be claiming two new terrotories every turn. At least the kings and mystics from the East seemed to have a whole bunch of sacred troops with them, most likely those abominable flying men Johannes had seen in his fever tormented trance, because the upkeep seems to be way too cheap.

And yet the exploits of war had not brought magic gem income for any of the false gods. Dead fish apparently rushed into some, not-so-well hidden water gem stash. Johannes was happy that the Machaka people had made friends with a village of some woodland critters who willingly gave up theirs small stash of gems, placing Machaka and the dead fish ahead of the curve.

When Johannes had almost done with his keeper of the scrolls, a winded and fainting messenger arrived from north. The man was a member of Machaka field army and brought a word from one of the most prominent of men, the commander of Machaka armies and a hero of unsurpassed strenght, Chief Mganga. The commander was resting with his army at the coast, when water started bubbling and soon exploded to the sky making the sea rain all over the Machaka armies. Simple infantry men ran for their lives, but the commander had stayed behind with his spiders and saw what monstrous, foul beings were rising to the surface from the deepest holes of the sea floor... but before the messenger could finish, he passed out and soon after died without ever coming to his senses again. What killed him was the same sickness that tormented city folk yesterday.

Numahr

October 26th, 2011, 11:14 AM

To Hunger without Thought, Aguadillas, Lord of R'lyeh

The Great Jörmundgandr, God of Primodial Waters, welcomes the coming of the mind lords. He has asked me to make His thought intelligible to your own intermediaries, so that mutual understanding between our races can be reached. Surely two wise races as old as the oceans and the mountains of this world can find a common ground, whatever metaphysical differences they may have.

In this perspective, my Master wishes to recognize the dominion of Aguadillas over all things oceanic. This means that the Agarthans, who are so famous amphibians, will be happy enough with dwelling on dry land and the shallow waters beside our temple. Your captains will have noticed that our main temple has its pillars diving deep into the Sea of Plenty. Grottoes and cavern networks directly connected to the Hall of the God of Primordial Waters Himself are connected to this Sea. This is why this single sea, of such mystical signification - and, excuse us of such trival considerations, security implications, when you think that anyone can reach our Lord's Hall from the sea bed - needs to remain under Agarthan direct control.

We are happy with letting your troops pass by the sea for the time being. Our underwater administrators will present themselves to operate the transfer of authority as soon as you notify us. We are also ready to open negotiations for a reasonable compensation of your "right of first conquest" over this little sea. Finally, our Lord is willing to extend further friendly relations if you wish to consider yourself a friend of the Oracles.

Nur-i Tagh, the Light from Within the Rock
on behalf of Jörmundgandr, the Whirlpool

earcaraxe

October 26th, 2011, 11:15 AM

To the military HQ:

In our glorious, against-all-odds battle at Saeborea, where the combined forces of our formidable markata archers and atavi stormtroopers showed those tailesses what's our race capable of. And there was that little help from Magnus and his dogs.

After that I wandered northward to meet up with reinforcements, while Magnus pushed forward as we split up. It was a magnificent sight, the most formidable military genius of the monkey people (I have to refer to my humble self here) outwitting those savage two-handers. Using nothing more than a couple sophisticated maneuvers with elephants and tigers. Bah!

Sometimes it seems impossible to believe, that these humans were our ancestors, as the famed yogi Darwiputra tells. So we had only two hands before we got up the trees! :lol According to Darwiputra, long ago, the most enlightened human ever died, then reincarnated as a markata. Anyway, it seems the scout i sent northward just returned, so back to duty: give a little push these humans in that settlement on the way of evolutionary development.

Aruna, distinguished war hero, bandar commander.

pakoito

October 26th, 2011, 12:52 PM

Terror of the abysms, lord of the fish, water fright and lord of the blanket Aguadillas.

The water domain and fishing banks of the Sea of Plenty are a most valuable asset to the R'lyeh Void Lords. Neither you nor the Ermor abominations on the other side of it will lay hands on them. The Wrathful Snake pays taxes to noone. Thy shall keep your demandsssss to yousssself.

pakoito

October 26th, 2011, 05:26 PM

Eater of void, depth of darkness, teacher of orphans, Lord Aguadillas.

Thissss knowsssss where you all are. Thisss knowsss what lurksss our nightmarezzzzzz. Itssss me. And 200 lobo guards. Who will be the chosssen prey?

earcaraxe

October 26th, 2011, 05:26 PM

Magnificent Giant Snake, leader of the starspawns!

I would like to bring you this wagon of bananas as a symbol of good will and peace from the kingdom of Bandar Log, country of markatas, atavis, bandars and vanaras, nagas and enlightened beings of upper existence (including the elephants).

We offer you an agreement of peace, one with a season-long insurance time.

Aruna

Anaconda

October 27th, 2011, 08:59 AM

What unspeakable secrets the deepest abyss of the sea withhold, the commander Mganga never discovered. The stench became unbearable and even the poison resistant, giant spiders needed to escape. The army marched south, away from the suspicious shores. The prophet Johannes Kurkunkastaja met them later that month him self.

The foul vapors caused by dead, rotting fish were almost gone. However, a new threat was rising from north-east. The thousand eyes of Machaka had alarmed priest-lords. 1-eyed giants were approaching the Machaka allies, defenceless smallfolk. Envoys were equipped with a banner of peace; giants surely possesed no threat to fearsom Machaka archers but because no-1, not even Johannes, knew what terrors were lurking in West and South, it was considered safe to try and contact with these giant olms.

The message said:

Greetings, Nur-i Tagh and you other olms. We the humble spider-folk would like to reason with you. March no further, for the small village called Glimmering Fields belongs to our sphere of influence. If you halt there where you have camped at the moment, we shall consider that an offer of friendship and it wont go unheeded. Machaka people has long memory, and their friendship is eagerly wanted gift from the nature herself.

With prayers and exitement Machaka shamans, the commander Mganga and the prophet him self sent the envoys to meet up with these strange beings from the deepest corners of the earth.

Numahr

October 27th, 2011, 06:43 PM

Our Lord the Councilor of Gods wishes to share the conclusions of his latest meditations with our Southern neighbors.

"Water is the source of life, streaming from the mountains where Agarthans constantly keep the guard, to flood into villages of all other nations' villages, wells and fields. Thus We declare it natural that major rivers should become the matrix where the Agarthan civilization meets with the other civilized nations of this world, exchanges and develops mutual beneficial relations."

In His desire for a world of peace and mutual respect based on these principles, the Councilor of Gods sent me, his trustworthy servant, to implement His wish. Taking act of the positive attitude of neighbors in this area, I will make sure that the sole Agarthan presence both in the Glimmmering Fields and in Saetica will consist of a liaison office in charge of commercial and cultural relations, just on the other sides of the respective bridges. No political, spiritual or military Agarthan activity will be developed on the other side of the rivers. Equivalent embassies are invited on our own side of the rivers and local lords will make sure appropriate real estate assets are made accessible to these nations' representatives. A banana plantation surrounded by coconut gardens has already been prepared.

We further declare that 3 full months should elapse after a declaration of war with our Western neighbor before the actual beginning of hostile actions; and we propose the same pact with the monkey folk.

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
on behalf of Jörmundgandr, Councilor of Gods

Deadnature

October 27th, 2011, 10:30 PM

The kingdom of Tien-Chi has been through a great many changes recently, but none so shocking as the revelation of the new prophet, chosen by the divinely beautiful Li Xue. For the Goddess of the land has chosen a concubine, not a king or general, as her holy representative in the world.

Now, the Red Guards once relegated to royal protection have had their ranks greatly expanded and the divinely inspired Du Qiunniang uses them to carve out a great empire in the name of the true god, Li Xue. With the Empires borders pushed out, strange new nations only once whispered about in legends have appeared with the coming of new seasons.

A single Red-caped rider ventures out on the Eastern frontier with a message:

To the Ancient Earth Dwellers of Agartha, though the nation of Tien Chi covets the beautiful fields of Villia (85), the most enlightened one Li Xue claims that the cosmos have dedicated those lands to you in perpetuity, should you follow the right course and agree to a peace agreement with Tien Chi, with one season as a warning time (NAP3).

- Du Qiunniang, the ridiculously beautiful prophet of Li Xue

Numahr

October 28th, 2011, 05:33 AM

Our Oracles have observed you for a long time, East-folk of Tien' Chi. Not long ago, while our most skillful craftsmen were adorning our deep halls in exquisite marble neo-classical decorations, your people was still a tribe of savage hunters-gatherers. But we have also witnessed your fast awakening, just a couple of millenia ago. We are aware of your finest philosophical findings, which are truly impressive and inspire our respect.

In this context, it is natural to treat you as a civilized nation as well. The Deep Council has approved proceeding with the exchange of embassies; it has accepted the terms of the treaty the most enlightened Du Qiunniang has proposed to us.

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
on behalf of Jörmundgandr, Councilor of Gods

pakoito

October 28th, 2011, 10:18 AM

Mistress striped of titles, lord Aguadillas.

hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahha hHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAHAHAHHAHHAHAHAHAHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHA HAHAHA poor Ulm, thy should have agreed to my offer, poor stupid foolssss.

Numahr

October 28th, 2011, 10:42 AM

The Deep Council notes that Machaka has not yet answered to our friendship message, although their armies has now reached the bridge which we ordered our own troops not to cross.

Therefore please inform the respected Johannes Kurkunkastaja, who seems to hold authority among the spider folk, that we want to know whether he considers our pact [NAP3] acceptable or not, so that we can adapt our orders for his month accordingly.

Respectful greetings to the Spider Lord.

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
on behalf of Jörmundgandr, Councilor of Gods

earcaraxe

October 28th, 2011, 10:57 AM

Guys!

I got to know, that some of us has sent PMs already. It is in the game rules, that only public communication is allowed.

I have received an ingame letter from pakoito. I think it didnt gave me or him any advantage (so no harm is done yet), and i suppose pakoito didnt intend breaking the rules.

However i would like to avoid to have some of us play with different rules the others.

So, i would like to ask if we all agree on that "only public communications is allowed" rule (as stated in the first post), or would all of us like to switch to more conventional rules. Or something in between.

earcaraxe

October 28th, 2011, 11:10 AM

Magnificent and most beutiful prophetess of the Celestial Empire!

The I bear the greetings of our leader, and would like to offer our peace treaty with the Leaders of T'ien C'hi which to be signed at our mututal border, with a season long buffer-time)

(Pardon my bluntness and this short introducton, but im in a bit of a hurry as my markata squadrons have wandered away/fighting with themselves/too noisy and uncontrollable)

Aruna, Bander General

Numahr

October 28th, 2011, 11:18 AM

I think the rule of only public diplo is interesting as long as we all respect it (it is a big advantage to "cheat" and make private deals and coordination when others can't)

pakoito

October 28th, 2011, 11:48 AM

I want something in between, public diplo means no plotting and backstabbing and that's the best part of the game. Mix of public-private so we can manipulate each other.

Numahr

October 28th, 2011, 01:16 PM

I joined this game because of that rule as I don't have time to play a full diplo game, so it's either no diplo game or public diplo (which takes mush less time because of the no backstabbing).

I mean we have rules clearly set up first, these should not change during the game - when we choose which games to join, we have to go through reading these rules and accepting them or not, discussing them before game starts, but not refusing them after start, in my opinion.

And by the way, either private messages are allowed or they are not - no way to do something in between. If they are allowed, then I will make almost all my diplo through private messages as it is so much better to win (you don't reveal info, you give yourself more freedom etc.). But then the whole concept of the game changes from what I've signed up for.

earcaraxe

October 28th, 2011, 03:05 PM

The rules were clear when the game started, everyone had the possibility to decide wether wants to join this game with this rules or not. the first post is unchanged from the start from that aspect, so u can check out the exact wording.

I'm open to changing the rules if there is consensus to (including me). It seems, that there are players who want to stick to the initial rules: every messaging must be public.

So, from now on, only public messages are allowed. No PM, no in-game text messages (item and gem sending is ofc allowed), no emails, skype, facebook, whatever.

earcaraxe

October 28th, 2011, 03:22 PM

Mighty leader of Ulm!

I bear a message from our leader, our salvation, the one who knows all the teaching: Fame has it the best warriors of your army rival even the strength of the silverback bandar gladiators. This makes our people look at your people as respectable, trustworthy and honorable (this must be some kind of gorilla-logic that i, the chosen one of the markatas, the first principle of the Emerged Tailless, cant understand fully).

This is an offer of a peace agreement, with a season's length as insurance, to coexist in peace, properity, and mutual grooming.

Dictatoress of Fashion, the markata prophet

Anaconda

October 28th, 2011, 03:38 PM

Yes, I completely back up these guys in their demand for reading comprehension. Rules were clearly stated, and more over there are practically always many a game without these special restrictions to choose from where as this one was founded under the idea of following certain set of special rules.

One cant, for example, after signing up to follow these rules just one sidedly decide he wont follow the ettin rule and start exploiting it. Mi self, I would not have joined without this open diplomacy policy just because I have so many regular games going on, and more coming up in near future. I signed up for the open diplo (inc. RPG element it brings along.)

pakoito

October 28th, 2011, 05:02 PM

Ok, I'll behave.

Anaconda

October 28th, 2011, 05:11 PM

From Johannes Kurkunkastaja to Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light;

a NAP is welcomed with joy!

Deadnature

October 28th, 2011, 08:07 PM

To the monkey-people: Tien Chi agrees to a peace agreement, with one season as a warning time (NAP3).

- Du Qiunniang, the ridiculously beautiful prophet of Li Xue

pakoito

October 28th, 2011, 09:01 PM

The monkey and the chinese are signing the peace, not knowing that the spider is crawling behind ♪♫ hihihahahiahiahhahahahaha

- Ctenophoros, the howling mad prophet.

PS: Ting-tang wala wala bing bang. HA!

Deadnature

October 29th, 2011, 12:02 AM

Menaced by a van of the famed Red Guards, the independent princes of old have one by one submitted to the Empire's will, the will of the prophet Du Qiunniang, and indirectly, the will of Li Xue.

For Li Xue, the Goddess of Celestial wonder and Cosmic beauty works through her prophet, Du Qiunniang, who is likewise totally hot.

But now the Empires gifts of beauty and bureaucracy are reaching the frontiers of other nations, which has led to great political debate within the high courts.

In the seas lurk strange creatures that are neither man nor fish, and a monstrous two-headed Wrym has risen from their ranks to conquer the dry domains as well as wet. These creatures intentions are unknown, but their weaknesses are. All across the lands of Tien Chi menfolk are preparing their powerful bows to mow down any possible invasion by slimy-skinned abominations.

Moreover, with Du Qiunniang away from the Celestial City, the militant faction of the Red Guard, backed by the largess of the great alchemist Qin-shu-pao, have won out in the debate over what to do with the semi-barbarian people of Ulm:

A Red-caped rider approaches the Ulmish frontier and yells: "tells us where your capital is NOW!"

***

A Red-caped rider approaches the lands controlled by the great Wrym of R'lyeh. As he nears the border, for days this messenger has been plagued by horrible dreams of things that should not be. The scroll he delivers is crumpled and stained with sweat and the Red-caped figure is barely able to let go of his precious charge which is later found to bear the message:

Hello Wyrmie! Let's be friends! It seems you like to conquer things too! Lets talk about where to conquer so that we don't bump into each other. Also, how about peace for a bit? (NAP3)

- Du Qiunniang, the ridiculously beautiful prophet of Li Xue

Numahr

October 29th, 2011, 04:58 AM

"And so, peace in our time shall not be. The tides of war shall flood the world until it is renewed, cleansed from mortals' sins."

East folk of Tien Chi and Sea folk of R'lyeh, you have set the Oracles' prophecy I have just quoted in motion. Can you control its consequences? Oracles see years of wars ahead, wars with weapons never seen in this era.

Nur'i Tagh, the Mountain Light
He who Read the Earth

pakoito

October 29th, 2011, 08:44 AM

The snake greeeeeeetss the bureaucracy of T'ien C'hi and agreedsssss on a NAP 3 pact. Your delightful grace may fffffffind Ulm Castle in province 47.

Lord Aguadillas take no threatsssssss of the pale ones, prepare ffffor a 4-front war.

Lastly, I expect the kingdom of Machaka to ssssstart honoring the help they're received and help Tien Chi in our war against the Pale Ones. Province 34 issss a ssstart.

Big of the bang, last of the slimy, thunder of the seas, eater of eyeball and manchester united fan, Lord Aguadillas.

Numahr

October 29th, 2011, 10:34 AM

Watery one,

Our Oracles did not make any threat, they were just sharing their thoughts with the world that war is coming to this world. We are a peaceful nation and although you dwell at the root of our palace, we did not decide to initiate war.

So we clearly state that although we are ready for war, we advise you to forget about your warmongering, and we are ready to forgive you this aggressive tone for this time, and live in co-existence.

Also note that we have a peace agreement with Machaka whom you ask for help??? We are even ready to sign one with you as well if you take the path of civilization.

To our other neighbors: our prophecy was not a declaration of war (in case it requires clarification). We will not interfere in the Ulmian war which does not concern Pale Ones - we simply wish the most righteous will emerge as a winner.

May wisdom come back to our lands - or may the Gods of the Past be witnesses that we tried to overcome burst of unjustified violence with cold blooded reaction.

Nur'i Tagh, the Mountain Light
on behalf of the Councillor of Gods

pakoito

October 29th, 2011, 10:47 AM

Hhahehahhihaihihi oh lord Aguadillas is an Angry God one huh! I remember the old times preaching to mister Whiskers the Lion God. Well we didn't call him that to his face but that guy was such a pussycat. Tihihihihi forget our Lord Aguadillas, we'll feed him some human slaves and everything will be just fine. Ohhuhuhuhuhu I'm off to The Void, ciao meio amici.

- Ctenophoros, the howling mad prophet.

earcaraxe

October 29th, 2011, 01:04 PM

A message to Johannes Kurkunkastaja who has only two hands, but still famously enlightened!

The Radja offers peace to the spider-people (one with the NAP3 code-name) and their most wise leaders. I have ordered Fordo Borgit, to turn sharply south and not intrude futher into your rightful territory.

awating ur undoubtedly wise answer

Dictatoress of Fashion, from Bandar

Anaconda

October 29th, 2011, 07:58 PM

The hairy ones had sent their sellsword company across the river to claim territories belonging Machaka and their allies, by tradition. With no actual intention, nor will in that matter, to spark conflict with south-eastern neigbours, the monkey tribe, Johannes Kurkunkastaja was heavily troubled during his venture to the south, and made a decision with long reaching consequences...

Sometimes even the prophet leaves the capital of Machaka, and walks the paths in the jungles and streets of the villages like an ordinary man. Again, Johannes Kurkunkastaja had left the field army commanded by Mganga behind and hurried south under the cover of disguise to find out the truth behind the rumors.When the prophet arrived to the region, the locals didnt betray him, but wishpered their worries to his ear in secrecy. The mercenaries had slain local militia and magistrate without negotiations, and claimed the region to their masters. Some dauhgters were taken, and some loot too. Nothing too dramatic, if one would have asked the prophet himself.

"It is the nature of this business. When a mercenary, act like mercenaries do", he was thinking, but hold his peace nevertheless. However, this was too close, the prophet decided. Considering the relative strenght of the monkey empire, they should not push their borders so close the seat of Him whose name should not be said aloud. He sent runners to summon Mganga with his infantry, archers and spider riders.

The dawn was red, when the army arrived. Johannes was waiting for them and gave instructions to the commander. They should throw the mercenaries back over the creek, and hold their positions until further negotiations. Mganga stared at the horizon: "It is red as blood. The sky I mean. And blood there will be. Remember, lord prophet, one cannot wash blood away with water."

earcaraxe

October 29th, 2011, 11:07 PM

Most Famed Johannes Kurkunkastaja!

Our Diplomatic and mmilitary staff held a summit considering the very tension our forces presence causes within the spiderpeople's borderguard.

As we understand the standpoint of safety, I came with a new offer that will certainly ensure u about our peaceful intentions:

The officially signed "season-buffered peace agreement" will contain this addition on our part: the monkey sellswords and all regular forces will retreat from ur side of the river by the end of next may, handing the administration of all the provinces there to the twohanded blackskins.

awaiting your answer,

Aruna, Bandar General

earcaraxe

October 30th, 2011, 06:46 AM

Dear Kurkunkastaja!

I see, Your Enlighteness saw it not an option for yourself to prevent those inhabitants the gift of being Your underlings.

Hear my new peace offer. I keep Validun (96) under monkey control for next month only, then hand your people the right to govern there. Fordo's warriors will stay in place, and no reinforcements will be sent by us thru the river (as long as there is a peace agreement between Machaka and Bandar Log)

And world peace. I mean a NAP3.

what you say?

Aruna, Chief of the Military High Command of Bandar Log

earcaraxe

October 30th, 2011, 06:56 AM

Most Respected Beautiness of the Celestial Empire!

Please accept our gifts of these gold-woven carpets as a symbol of our great grief. Its always saddens me to hear senseless violence, which happened like an accident, our elephants just couldnt hear the trumpets which ordered them back. They were fine soldiers of an ally, they will be buried in ornamented (and very flat) coffins, like (very flat) war heroes.

Aruna, the Gorilla

earcaraxe

October 30th, 2011, 07:00 AM

Mighty Archteurgs of Ermor!

The 2nd (southern) bandarian army has reached the cape, and the bridge to your island. We would like to offer u our peace agreement of a NAP3: let the river be our natural border: our army wont march in into Elidor, if u find it acceptable.

with friendship from Bandar

The Dictatoress of Fashion,

the markata princess

Deadnature

October 31st, 2011, 09:08 AM

A Red-caped rider bearing a scroll approaches the lands controlled by the Monkey people:

We respect your elephants might and must say that we learned a great many tactics from this accidental battle, namely that our cavalry can't take on elephants on a 1-to-1 basis.

Despite a recent revolt by a vampire count, it is assumed that the Monkey people will respect Tien Chi's sovereignty over the Cacevic Highlands (92).

- Du Qiunniang, the ridiculously beautiful and now heroically strong hall-of-famer prophet of Li Xue

pakoito

October 31st, 2011, 10:04 AM

Lord Aguadillas is dead. WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.

earcaraxe

October 31st, 2011, 11:21 AM

earcaraxe

October 31st, 2011, 02:16 PM

To the Lord of the Spiders, children of the unforgiving forests!

Fordo Borgit's attack was in anticipation of ur suspected invasion (fortunately he failed miserably). We anticipated it because of the lack of answers to our messages. We are very happy and hopeful we can keep peace and revert to discussing cooperation, we wont plan any more attacks.

We left Validun for your warriors to conquer, and even set a traders guild up there to ensure your people's prosperity.

The First Army of Bandar is marching against Namor as u read this. We hope we can work out an agreement regarding the provinces there. Namor is only a couple days of tiger-ride from the residence of our Beloved Szivi, the one who is Hairless and Determined, and the maharadjas. (second province from capital) So securing it is of high priority for us.

awaiting ur answer,

Aruna, from Bandar HQ

Numahr

October 31st, 2011, 03:09 PM

O Antifates, wise among the wise

We Oracles were waiting for this encounter with representatives of B'Jandis, the Stealer of Corpses.

We have come from the deepest halls beneath the Earth to meet you on this bridge. We know the great power you have on the souls and corpses, beyond death. We respect it. But we invite you to remember our own old words of wisdom, that even our new Lord recognizes:
" The Mountains were silent for our birth; they will keep silence long after our passing."

By the powers our lord Jörmungandr and the Deep Council granted me, I declare that this bridge where I stand, shall be the borders of our respective empires. We also offer you all the lands North of the bridge of Robber Home, still occupied by uncivilized tribes and petty leaders. May you bring the lights of civilization in this area. Our diplomats will wait for yours at that bridge, too.

And to conclude this ceremony, we wish to engrave on this marble column in the middle of the bridge an oath of friendship and peace, according to which our nations will refrain from war a season after declaration of hostilities [NAP3]. Now speak, Grand Thaumaturge, Agartha is listening...

Words of "Marbleskin" Tammuz, Oracle of the Ancient
to Antifates the Grand Thaumaturge and to the Ermorian Nation

Anaconda

October 31st, 2011, 03:21 PM

The following letter was delivered to a loyal bannerman of the Bandar Log nation, to be delivered forward again, all the way to the seat of power of their leader, assumingly a weird hearless monkey.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

Very well, dear apes.

If you stay to that side of the the greek, we shall let you take Namor. Please note this arrangement reserves province 78 to us, and all what lies to the West from it also.

Trusting on your friendship,

signed by

Johannes Kurkunkastaja
he who walks between the spiders

And, at the end of the parchment paper one could find a fine-print note:

POST SCRIPTUM;
Do you, mi lord, have any idea what might have happened to that two headed sea serpent, the one whos heads had mocking names for true believers written all over them?

earcaraxe

October 31st, 2011, 06:08 PM

To the black-skinned lords of the evil forests and misty mountains!

Your proposal now bears the signature of the bandarian leaders (and stains of banana shake).

Concerning the two-headed giant serpent: I have heard about it, voices of awe and fear, tales of destruction and mayhem, but no monkey saw it (and lived to tell).

may the stars sprinkle your people with luck!

The Dictatoress of Fashion

Deadnature

November 1st, 2011, 02:13 AM

*notice posted to all Tien Chi guardhouses*

ALERT:

Be on the lookout for questing Ulmish Knights. Their bravery knows no bounds, as scouts of the bureaucracy have recently confirmed that one such group of adventurers slew the mighty Wyrm of R'lyeh. Scouts noted that the knights continued attack the seemingly unkillable Wrym, even after suffering many losses. Fearing for its life the Wyrm finally tried to flee, at which point the Ulmish warriors rode down the horrible beast and finished it off.

Any guardhouses of the bureaucracy are to report sightings of such black-clad Knights IMMEDIATELY and are instructed to NOT ENGAGE them until reinforcements arrive.

By bureaucratic decree of Du Qiunniang, the prophet of the true god Li Xue

Numahr

November 1st, 2011, 06:02 AM

Mermer captains, thanks for this audience.

My Lord Jörmungandr asked me to speak with the captains of the monkey folk, and here I see only strange hybrids between men and fishes. I will trust you to deliver my message to the Szivi nonetheless - assuming you know someone in your Nation who at least knows how to find the Hidden One.

Your race has always been a subject of interest for the Oracles who worship our Lord. They have noted how small and large creatures live in harmony in our forests, from the tiny markatas to the huge tropical beasts dwarfing even our oldest Ancient Ones. But we know that your true strength lies somewhere else, as your wisest monkeys read in the stars as easily as our Ancient Oracles read in the Earth. We note however from this hill fort's design that our engineers could teach you one or two things on architecture. What a nice site for a really great Cave City these mountains could have provided! Anyway, we understand that you may underestimate the holy strength of the Mountains.

Putting aside these considerations on cultural and spiritual relativism, I must come now to the heart of my message. I, by the Holy power entrusted to me by the Councilor of Gods, invite an esteemed representative of the Bandari nation to participate to a Bridge Ceremony. You may know the modalities: exchange of cultural and commercial embassies, and engraving in the middle of the bridge of a peace oath [NAP3] with signatures of both parties. I will participate personally in the ceremony, if you accept it, even if my counterpart has to be one of these lowly fish-men.

Now speak, O Bandari, for Agartha is listening to you...

Words of Nur-i Tagh, Prophet of the Councilor of Gods
to the Bandari mermer captains of Dragon Pointe Hill Fort

earcaraxe

November 1st, 2011, 09:45 AM

To Nur-i Tagh, Prophet of the Councilor of Gods!

In the name of Szivi I - the chosen markata - gladly and happly accept your kind invitation to the Bridge Caremony, and welcome you, your people and the teachings your ancestors bequeathed you and who is willing to listen.

Aruna of the high command will rush to our "fort" immediately, to represent the bandari kingdom and welcome the time of friendship between our people.

the prophet of the Hairless Buddha

Numahr

November 1st, 2011, 06:01 PM

O mindless Aguadillas!

We admire your foolish bravery. Surely it is thrilling to contemplate sneak attacking anyone without prior notice, right to the capital. How exciting to slaughter unprepared provincial defense.

Now beside the excitement we can imagine in your other otherwordly mind, your last move raises a couple of questions even the wisest Oracles could not find a beginning of answer for.

- Why being so cruel with innocent slaves, butchered for a price much higher than the unsupported PD they could barely vanquish?

- How do a couple of Illithids with their bare hands plan to besiege a Cave City, not to mention conquer it?

- Why attack the one Nation well-known for her mindless soldiers (the whole Golem arsenal, available at research level 0) when your main strength is mind attacks? All your Astral and Mind magic will be pointless against marble soldiers until you research Arcane Bolt, which is not exactly for tomorrow...

- Why attack the only nation in this world whose field armies are almost entirely amphibian and can easily attack your underwater holdings without special magic equipment / mercenaries / independant tribes?

Let us be honest, your attack took us by surprise but failed. We give you a chance to retire your poor Illithids before they meet the cold of Granite Swords held by mindless Attentive Statues, and sign an immediate and clear Non Aggression Pact of 5 turns. This is all we ask although we will have to repay for provincial defense and we loose a precious turn of capital recruitment. If you insist for war, be aware that it will force us to start amphibian operations to ensure safety for our lands.

To all other nations: we have no intention to develop an underwater empire bordering all your lands and threatening you of sneak attacks like R'lyeh practices. The only problem is that if we cannot sign a strong peace treaty with R'lyeh, we now have to predict random invasions from the seas in the future. So, in case we need to invade R'lyeh under the waves, we invite you to to grab and keep any water province next to you. Contrarily to usual practice in holy wars, we will be happy with any "unfair" land grabbing by other nations. Our only goal, if this war degenerates, will be to get rid of the R'lyeh threat.

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
on behalf of Jörmungandr, Patron of Soldiers
*** Ancient Oracles of the Deep Council unanimously align themselves with this declaration ***

pakoito

November 1st, 2011, 07:29 PM

Kingdom of R'lyeh, under New Direction after the death of our god.

Why attack the kingdom of Agartha? Because you didn't expect so and grew careless. It'll teach you something about our ambition that we can spare one month of lobo guards to get someone into trouble. Two turns without production in exchange of one of mines is enough satisfaction for the watery nation. Now if you excuse me, we have some undefended provinces to raid.

To all other nations:
To all leaders, we can bite our biggest threat out of the game if we act together this two turns. A three-way attack to their island (31, 40, 64) will finish the game of ascension for one of our veteran enemy players.

Numahr

November 1st, 2011, 07:45 PM

Mind Lords, your message of animosity is clear.

I only wonder who is the threat: a nation who behaves in a predictable and friendly way, stops at agreed and natural borders, or one who decides every two turns to turn against someone else, one turn the weak... one turn the strong... next who?

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
on behalf of Jörmungandr, Patron of Soldiers

pakoito

November 1st, 2011, 09:33 PM

Kingdom of R'lyeh, under New Direction after the death of our god.

There's only 9 water provinces in the map I conquered in 4 turns. You have around 18 undefended provinces with 2 neighbors on chokespots, where I have 8 who can access me from anywhere. I'm sorry if you don't understand my peoples needs but I want someone out of the map now, and your nation is a giant with feet of clay. ("HAHA DOUBLE ENTENDRE" "Shut up, Centophoros, you have no voice now the Pretender's dead")

Your last message is one of weakness and doubt about whether you can stand a defense against several armies. It's not in my hands to crush you, but it doesn't take much to understand that the wild card of a bold newbie can turn a game's fate.

Anaconda

November 2nd, 2011, 03:30 AM

It had been the sunny month of Shahrivar when Commander Mganga came down to South riding a spider. He had been an infantry man, and he had always fought on his feet. So, on his feet he died. Now he was going back North carried on his hide-shield.

Maybe, if Johannes the prophet would have been a man of higher moral, he would have blamed him self for ignoring the walking dead. But his visions considering these abominations had been weak, and on the other hand, he was not a man who would bother him self with a guilt.

The undead had sneaked on the host with the cover of falling night. They had shared some mead and meat with the monkey envoys, and men were bringing out the fires to hold the cold of night at bay. The surprise was complete, and the results were the same. No matter it must have been days now, they had not seen the sun since the defeat.

While Machaka infantry held their ground, the few spiders they got with 'em broke surprisingly fast. The enemy was able to flank the hide-shield wall and it did not take long when there were only archers releasing their volleys on the approaching enemy. Volley after volley, it made no difference. The enemy wore steel, and the arrows lacked the penetration. Commander Mganga, a hero of mighty strenght, fell protecting the last of the archers.

”Note to self; next time bring the riddle of magic fire along” Johannes Kurkunkastaja was thinking. ”We will see how them monsters boil in their armors. The funeral march was slow and the atmosphere depressed as never before. Even the Tartarians are crying, some thought wiping the rain off their faces. All missed the commander, a man who had their respect. The same could not be said of the prophet, who led with the fear rather than with example.

The prophet knew it, but it did not matter to him.

Better to be feared and alive, he was thinking when the attendants of the ceremony passed him. Johannes did not attend the march North. He had other business to take care of. Indeed, the peijainen for Mganga would be held without any notable figures. Witch doctors and sorceress', they'd all fallen side by side with Mganga.

But new heroes will rise, and the day shall come again. The prophet had seen it in his fevered dreams.

Anaconda

November 3rd, 2011, 09:30 AM

Flocks of raven(spiders) have been flying out of Machaka capital, trying to reach all the leaders of the world. There is a message attached to each and every bird. It says:

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

Machaka nation is willing to trade water gems for fire, death or astral gems. Also Pendant of luck -amulets and Antimagic amulets could serve.

Would trade gems for 1:1, and amulets 1:6.

The signature, however, is missing.

earcaraxe

November 4th, 2011, 05:47 AM

Deadnature, i see u staled last turn, and the hsting is waiting for ur trn file only this turn. are u still with us? do u need postponement?

Zachariah

November 4th, 2011, 11:39 AM

(sorry guys, the forum had been quiet for a while, so I hadn't checked in. Woo! Missed quite a bit of action!)

I, Vilgo, am here to represent the ever silent B'Jandis, whose power cannot be imagined.

Let you all be reminded that Death is the final place in the cycle of life, and it is there where all the true mysteries lie. By harnessing this power with guidance of the great B'Jandis, we, the people of Ermor, will achieve true ascension.

People of Bandar, She finds your suggestion of a NAP3 to be most acceptable.

People of Agartha, lead by the mighty Jörmungandr, your suggested borders are acceptable.

People of Machaka, you would crawl on the ground and give fealty to the lowly spider? For that you will perish. Let the ground belong to the undead, as is proper!

Numahr

November 4th, 2011, 12:09 PM

Greetings, Sprider Lords.

We welcome your coming to the Sinks, especially considering the lack of willingness of the previous tenor to communicate with us like a civilized nation. You will notice that the climate here is a bit foul, although your spiders may like it. In any case, we are happy to extend the oath of peace signed on the bridge of the Glimmering Fields to this region as well.

Tammuz "marble-skinned"
High Representative of the Deep Council in the Foul Marshes

Numahr

November 4th, 2011, 12:14 PM

Greetings, Vilgo,

Finally, an answer from the representative of the Ever-Silent. We wish your undead could remain as still as our Mountains but we recognize that is for you to decide.

You did not answer clearly wether you accept participation in the oath of Peace ceremony on the bridge? [NAP3] Although the ceremony may be postponed as logistical conditions seem to prevent the participation of your esteemed representative. Agreement on principle can still be reached as of now.

Tammuz "marble-skinned"
High Representative of the Deep Council in the Foul Marshes

Zachariah

November 4th, 2011, 01:10 PM

My apologies Tammuz... the people of the great nation of Ermor accept your NAP3 proposal, and our emissaries will be present at the Peace ceremony. The most esteemed Antifates has been engaged elsewhere, and issues many an apology at not being able to attend.

Anaconda

November 4th, 2011, 04:27 PM

My humble apologies, no dead allowed into peace ceremonies.

They are laid to rest, so they ought to stay down! And we are already making sure they do.

But you others, go ahead, attend all you want.

For us, on the other hand, only ceremonies are war ceremonies.

J
o
h
a
n
n
e
s

the prophet

earcaraxe

November 4th, 2011, 05:47 PM

Dear Du Qiunniang, the ridiculously beautiful and now heroically strong hall-of-famer prophet of Li Xue!

The Monkey Kingdom plans to extend its rule over Silver Swamps. We hope You give your consent to it.

I also would like to express our amusement of your generals and the bravery of your soldiers in your struggle versus the formidable and famed ulmish army.

The markata prophetess

pakoito

November 4th, 2011, 05:51 PM

I just want to set the wooooorld...ooooon....fireeeeee ♪♫

SHUT UP CENTHOPHOROS, I swear to Aguadillas that if you ever talk again I'll send you against the Agarthan army again. T'ien C'hi, I want the land belonging to Ulm and I'm willing to fight and expel them myself if I get a good 4 provinces out of it.

Zachariah

November 7th, 2011, 11:39 AM

Oh Monkey Kingdom, I am confused by your ill-fated attack on my people... Did we not agree to a NAP3?

-Vilgo

earcaraxe

November 7th, 2011, 12:31 PM

Dear Vilgo!

I agree we have a peace treaty. I hope your border guard didnt have much trouble with that crazy mage!

with friendship,

Aruna from bandar log

earcaraxe

November 7th, 2011, 06:16 PM

Apparently Deadnature has gane missing. i have postponed the hosting by 12 hrs in hope he reappears. Anyone know anything about him, or knw someone who would sub in for him?

I'm gonna set him AI soon.

earcaraxe

November 8th, 2011, 04:33 AM

I got an idea: Ossa, what about u taking over T'ien C'hi? Given ur war, it would be a little similar, when Rme conquered the greeks, and at the same time the greek culture conquered roman!

So it seems finding sub is unlikely and Ulm's state is not promising contrary to the chinese. what u say?

earcaraxe

November 9th, 2011, 11:20 AM

anyone want to save the day by switching to a strong T'ien C'hi? Pakoito?

Hylobius

November 9th, 2011, 02:11 PM

I am interested in playing this position.

pakoito

November 9th, 2011, 02:26 PM

I can't do two factions, im in 4 games at a time -.- Let this guy be it.

earcaraxe

November 9th, 2011, 05:07 PM

I am interested in playing this position.

welcome Hylobius! plesase send me ur email so i can send the last turn of tienchi to u.

Hylobius

November 9th, 2011, 07:12 PM

Sending you a PM now.

earcaraxe

November 9th, 2011, 09:34 PM

Hylbius is in charge f the celestial empire now, hoorray to him!

it may worth to send the new government some memos about signed treaties.

earcaraxe

November 9th, 2011, 09:39 PM

Highly Revered New Leader of Tien Chi!

The four armed people welcomes the revolution, and hopes everything will be back to orderly soon.

We'd like to reassure Your Highness, that the we consider the NAP3 treaty we signed with ur precedessor legal, with the river and the swamps as our long cmmon border . (So we wont plan to subjugate the barbarians nor the rebellious vampire baron)

with friendship,

from bandar log

Aruna, bandar general

Numahr

November 10th, 2011, 12:09 PM

"And so 1001 civilizations shall emerge, meet glory and become forgotten ashes before this unsignificant mountain stream stops flowing."

This word of Wisdom of our Lord Jörmungandr reminds us of the ephemeral nature of all human constructions. However, be ensured, Lord of the Empire of Tien'Chi: Agarthans do not swear lightly. Our Oath of Peace (NAP3) has been engraved in the most durable marble and still stands.

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
on behalf of
Jörmungandr, the Councilor of Gods

Hylobius

November 10th, 2011, 01:34 PM

Lesser races:

My new master extends his greetings. Be assured that this transition in leadership does not indicate a weakness in our empire. Our steel remains sharp.

My former master did not leave detailed records of our various diplomatic agreements before his untimely demise. We wish to honor our previous agreements and ensure that the least worthy die first. Our understanding is that we have non-aggression pacts with Bandar and Agartha, and we appear to be at war with Ulm. Any additions or corrections to this list must be received immediately as our warriors become restless.

The Prophet Du Quiniang

Numahr

November 10th, 2011, 06:17 PM

By unanimous decision of the Deep Council,
Presided by Kiksanu the Swift,
Approved by Nur-i Tagh, representative of our Lord Jörmungandr,
Held in presence of all ambassadors of friendly civilized nations:

First,
- The Master Keeper of Memories is asked to enter an exceptional record for the Late Fall in the Year 2 of the Ascension War, in honor of the supremely creative Generals of R'lyeh. The marble engravings are to be located next to the extracts from "The Art of War" by an old Tien Chi general, engraved 2 millenia ago; the header is to be entitled "New military innovation by R'lyeh: how to attack the enemy who expects you the most with underwhelming forces to make sure they get all crushed."

- A complementary column facet shall be devoted to "A hero's true martyrdom: how to donate a full set of magical items and making sure they reach the enemy's laboratory, without inflicting any casualties."

- Finally, the third column facet is to bear a conclusive note on "How the unjustified thirst of blood marked the decline of R'lyeh, who chose to engage in a lost war rather than building a strong kingdom on dry land at the expense of uncivilized tribes left alone by other nations."

Second,
The Master of fishermen is to drown a bottle in the nearby lake with the following message, for some random fish-like creature, mind-free or not, to read it:
"O esteemed Deep Ones! The Oracles had expected your coming and thank you for the timely appearance of your visitors on three provinces of our well-protected domains. We promise we will take good care of the unfortunate creatures we delivered from eternal servitude and of the tentacles we found still moving on the ground. Our keeper of memories keeps a precise account of our respective debts and credits. Those shall be repaid in time, with interest. Observe well the mountains which dominate your pounds: note how they are cold-blooded and slow-tempered by nature; but how well they remember even the slightest drop of water that falls on them."

pakoito

November 10th, 2011, 06:49 PM

Dear Lords of Agartha

Don't mock the boldness of the newbiorns, rather think of second motifs to their actions. Our chaff was getting hungry and despite I truthfully regret the loss of my treasures their upkeep was smothering our nation and needed to be sacrificed. I did not expect not to kill any of your troops tho, but that's a lesson I've learnt.

Numahr

November 10th, 2011, 07:05 PM

We have received your latest message, dear other worldly neighbors.

We will welcome a representative of your nation to engrave an explanatory addendum at the bottom of the column, justifying your strategic boldness towards future generations or curious Oracles, if you leave immediately the province of Lithia and thus avoid war escalation between us.

Shetyrs the Warrior,
High Representative of the Deep Council in the Southern Lands

pakoito

November 10th, 2011, 07:11 PM

I agree to the deal, I've updated my orders to the Raiding Lords and hope for a understanding pact for some turns, but don't expect thankfulness or regret from us, we are a prideful nation.

R'lyeh, under new direction.

pakoito

November 14th, 2011, 06:38 PM

The silence of my neighbors is deafening. Please stop being so quiet.

R'lyeh, under new direction.

Anaconda

November 15th, 2011, 03:52 AM

What do you expect trying to sneak on me like that? Also, there hasnt been time to write AAR's because the Action aint over(yet). Those faceless skulls of Ermor build up rugged defence.

Numahr

November 15th, 2011, 05:20 AM

O Aguadillas, Sergent of the Stellar Half-Fishes,

Welcome back on this plane.

We have received your envoy and we understand you wish to enter negotiations with civilized nations, probably to wash your sins. A very respectable move. We are ready to receive your propositions for compensations of all the mischiefs you inflicted on our farmers.

Peace,

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
On behalf of the Councilor of Gods

pakoito

November 15th, 2011, 05:44 AM

What do you expect trying to sneak on me like that? Also, there hasnt been time to write AAR's because the Action aint over(yet). Those faceless skulls of Ermor build up rugged defence.

Yet they wouldn't even try conquering the indies south of their kingdom, which are mine now.

Dear Lord of Agartha, Aguadillas is being kept imprisoned behind catle walls, and he won't leave to rape unless followed by one of the master, so fear not.

R'lyeh, Under New Directions.
Daily musical recommendation: "You can't always get (what you want)" - Glee Cover

earcaraxe

November 16th, 2011, 06:16 PM

The bandari generals at the MMHQ (Monkey Military Headquarters) are in awe of ulmian battle prowess. According to our scouts report, who had the view of his life from the hilltop near Ulm, a most epic and desperate battle was fought against the extremely impressive and proud, world-famous T'ien C'hi Cavarly, whose mere sight invokes panic in most regions of the world. Not in the hearts of the tall, blonde warriors!

Please accept this gift of fine boots and the beautiful escort of two female markatas as our compliment.

Leaders of the Celestial Empire! You have taught us about strategy and military discipline a lot! Thank You too!

Aruna, Bandari General

Numahr

November 16th, 2011, 07:01 PM

The Agarthan Deep Council, after a week of well considered deliberations, joins his collective voice to the Bandari congratulations. A whole Marble colmun in the heart of the Council should be devoted to celebrate this exploit, which "our" eyes have also witnessed from close.

The Ulmian mastery of fire and magma; the brave sacrifice of the few brave Black Nights; the stubborness and sense of honor of your soldiers, who already killed Aguadillas, deserve our admiration. You have simply defeated the greatest army yet assembled and sent to war in our world.

We are happy to send you a modest symbolic gesture collected from volunteer contributions of our Ancient Ones, a handful of precious Earth gems. More importantly, one of the Hall will be renamed "Hall Adaloald" from your new mage hero.

Kiksanu the Swift,
Elder of the Deep Council

Hylobius

November 16th, 2011, 09:53 PM

Dear Aruna,

Hopefully what you have learned about strategy from the Celestial Empire is what to avoid doing.

Yours in disgrace

Anaconda

November 17th, 2011, 09:11 AM

Annoyed
and frustrated by the delays in the great Ermor-Machaka war, the prophet Johannes Kurkunkastaja sat down in his field army encampment, took a feather into his hand and began to draw. Many a candle were needed before the work was done, and only after that he was able to start the letter it self.

It wasnt before the sun was up again, when Johannes was finally able to released the flocks of (spider)crows to carry his messages to the eight corners of the earth:

Greetings, the great lords of this land of riches and wealth!

I, Johannes Kurkunkastaja, call you to take up the arms and join our people's hard effor to push evil walking dead away from our lands, all the way to the Tartarus and beyond.

As you know, evil walking dead marched against my humble and unprepared armies not that long ago, and slaughtered Machaka men and spiders alike with smile in their faceless skulls. Since that memorable day the surviving heroes of Machaka have pushed the Ermor all the way back to their seat of power. This heroism was not achieved without sweat and blood.

It seems, however, that the siege is becoming costly and uneffective because the evil one can summon unending amounts of undead hordes. Therefore I call upon thee, my friend lords all around the world, to lift your fists into the air for freedom!

March here and join our effort to sweep the land clean of the undead abominations.

Here is the current situation of our war:

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/thelandoffameandriches001.jpg

And here how we could share the Ermor's lands after its done:

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/thelandoffameandriches002.jpg

I remind you, his distant provinces are all illprepared and unguarded because he is marching his field armies against my brave hide-shield walls.

Please consult your consciences and seek your hearts, and come to the evident conclusion Ermor has neither one.

Ermor's days here are over. Let us (s)lay them to rest!

pakoito

November 17th, 2011, 10:18 AM

Your cartographist got a bit lost there, dead Spider Rider, because the four provinces south of Ermor's Dark Reign now belong to Aguadillas and the New Direction or R'lyeh. We can keep said provinces safe and we will not interfere in the war as long as there is no conflict with our interests.

R'lyeh, under new direction.

PS: AWESOME MAPS!

earcaraxe

November 17th, 2011, 10:42 AM

(anaconda, those maps made my day, fantastic, thanks!)

Anaconda

November 17th, 2011, 10:44 AM

Johannes the prophet would suggest you march north and dont stay hidden under your waves and behind your stonewalls.

pakoito

November 17th, 2011, 12:36 PM

There is going to be losses in our side if we engage in a war we don't want. If the arachnolords were too kind to provide us some economic backbone for our war engine we could help them win their war with ease.

R'lyeh, under New Direction.

PS: Turn's ready, but I'm not sending it until we've solved this diplomatic stuff.

earcaraxe

November 17th, 2011, 12:39 PM

(oh, c'mon, the only reason im surfing the net for the last 2 hours is to get that turn)

Anaconda

November 17th, 2011, 12:51 PM

Johannes is interested:

How much?

pakoito

November 17th, 2011, 01:13 PM

200g per war turn, starting turn 29 (the one after this one).

R'lyeh, under New Direction.

Anaconda

November 17th, 2011, 01:21 PM

Here is our counter proposal. We the spider folk pay your nation 250 for a conquered (and kept) province. And NAP(5) Between us. This offer covers the star/asterisk -marked provinces in this map (with the exception of provinces you control already):

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/thelandoffameandriches002.jpg

pakoito

November 17th, 2011, 01:29 PM

pakoito

November 17th, 2011, 01:33 PM

Forget about the castle, we have a deal. I'll send the turn in some minutes.

Anaconda

November 17th, 2011, 04:16 PM

It took few weeks before the prophet's plans carried fruit. The days were long for waiting men.

When they finally did, it appeared to be the busiest day for months in the encampment under the long shadow of the Fort Faran, the makeshift forward operations base for Machaka's eastern field armies.

The sunrise was not yet even a slight promise when the runners appeared from the west. Ermor had launched a full scale invasion against the pass of White Peaks, the stronghold resisting still firm against Ermor's western expeditions. Johannes held his breath and almost said a prayer alound.

He bite his lip with his teethless mouth and cursed instead. There was no-one to hear his prayers. He whose name should not be mentioned was there, in the camp located in the pass of White Peaks. If he cant command those undead hordes, who could ever help poor spider folk?

At the same time, a new winded runner approached. With a guest from the underwater kingdom of R'lyeh. They, of the all people, had heeded the prophet's call and terms were quickly agreed. Armies from the seafloor would take the responsebility to slay the eastern provinces of Ermor.

Stone rolled from the hearth of the prophet.

Even if the stronghold located in the pass of White Peaks would fall, Ermor could not stand long anymore. Justice would be served.

Later that afternoon Belit the black sorceress from the black coast, arrived wounded with pitch bad news. The raiding party sent to crush last Ermor province still resisting Machaka reign north from the fortress of Faran had been hacked into pieces. Those still alive had scattered like chaff in the wind. Regrouping them would take time, and might not even pay the effort.

"Dark skin, dark words" Johannes thought. He had barely dismissed her, when a new messenger arrived from the east.

Along with the another one from the west.

The Machaka one was received first. The new suprime commander of Machaka army, Oberyn Martell, had lead the defence in the pass of White Peaks, under the direct command of He whose name should not be mentioned. The battle was costly and numerous were the tribal women whose men would never return.

But Oberyn Martell had routed the enemy, and while they were running, slaid many of them.

The supreme commander of all Machaka armies had won a nickname The Red Spider that day because of his unique (it was common misbelief, Johannes knew) flame whip he used to slice his enemies.

After all this the old prophet felt exhausted, but he still had to receive the last messenger from the eastern province.

The message was short: "Armies of R'lyeh had landed and claimed their first province." The emissary from the R'lyeh stepped out of the shadows with a wicked smirk. Johannes knew what he needed to do and summoned the keeper of the gold. At least the day turned to better in the end.

He needed to hear the details of the Battle of White Peaks, but not today. Today they were to have a feast. An event they had not held for so long...

Numahr

November 18th, 2011, 07:11 AM

Lord Aguadillas,

I deliberated recently with the Deep Council about the latest developments in provinces neighboring our well protected domains. In particular, the fact that you leave your water domains may mean that you become a civilized nation, behaving as such and accepting the responsibilities which come with such a status.

To be totally honest, Ancient Oracles are uneasy about your expansion in a move surrounding us from all directions, considering your past behavior and public declarations. They noted that we are still technically at war with each other, considering that your latest retreat from our Northern provinces was done under cover of a kind of local truce, no more. They reminded how you attacked us several times without prior notice, and how one such sneak attack was done after words of friendly apologies from the very Lord Aguadillas Himself.

Sang-i Khateratha, our Master Keeper of Memories, also took the floor. He noted how you more or less warned us that a new attack would come soon, when we made our last truce, R'lyeh being a "prideful nation". Sang-i Khateratha also presented the debt your nation still owes to us because of havoc inflicted on our Holy Mountain and several provinces for several long months. He reminded the assembly that we did not cross the Robber Home bridge because of a treaty with Ermor, not with R'lyeh, the nation who attacked us by surprise several times and refuses to sign a peace treaty. Our self-imposed moderation in the Robber Home area was valid as long as Ermor, or another friendly nation, would participate to the bridge ceremony - it was not intended to give room for our enemy to prepare one more attack, and it is not binding to us in this context.

I promised the Ancient Oracles, who are sometimes a little too vengeful and do not understand all the intricacies of realpolitik, that the new Lord Aguadillas would prove reasonable and that a permanent peace agreement could be reached with Him. They agreed to let me try to negotiate directly with you, as long as I would not betray the legitimate interests of the Agarthan nation. So I propose the following treaty:

- we transfer the rights on the Robber Home region we had originally granted to Ermor to your nation, in the event that you can keep these provinces, and give up any claims in the area;

- we receive the Sea of Plenty as a guarantee against attacks on our Holy Mountains in the future;

- we cancel all debts you nation still has toward us because of war devastations inflicted on us;

- we organize a bridge ceremony sealing peace between our nations on the Robber Home bridge [NAP3].

Refusal to enter negotiations will be considered as a continuation of the state of war you imposed on us, and you know that you are becoming much more of a threat now. But I hope I can bring a proof of your peaceful intentions to the Deep Council and get a positive answer to this treaty. That would definitely eliminate all sources of tensions between our nations, probably the two oldest (and wisest?) nations in this world. We are also ready to listen to your counter-proposals, if any, and analyze them with cold blood.

May the mountains' wisdom reflect on our decisions,

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
Holder of a full accreditation from the Deep Council
Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Jörmungandr, the Councilor of Gods

pakoito

November 18th, 2011, 08:05 AM

As a prideful nation we don't seek blind vengeance but not being punished and humilliated with debts after losing toops, items and valuable generals. In hope of peace, we're willing to come to a new understanding. We agree to the pact you proposed us with one exception: we cannot leave the Sea of Plenty and the castle built there, it's too resource-valuable to leave it. Also, the bridged province will not belong to the Void Lords in the end of the war because yours and Machaka's troops deny access to it except if our troops marched through Eremor's capital, madness. Our expansion is not dictated by the position of your kingdom but only to the provinces available to me and the proximity between castles, the possible layout was only one. I hope you redefine the terms of our treatee so we can sign it.

R'lyeh, under New Directions, in the year of the Omnivore Bat.

Numahr

November 18th, 2011, 11:24 AM

Esteemed Lord Aguadillas,

Your motives are certainly noble, but never will the Deep Council accept a treaty legalizing your presence at the root of our Holy Mountain, considering your suspicious track record.

Let us open the possibilities of a territorial swap, I suggest, keeping in mind that we already let you get 5 provinces north of the Robber Home bridge, that has to account for something. If you let us know what are the economic assets of the Sea of Plenty, we will suggest you an appropriate offer.

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
Holder of a full accreditation from the Deep Council
Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Jörmungandr, the Councilor of Gods

Anaconda

November 18th, 2011, 02:14 PM

please postpone incoming turn (the one coming out possibly tonight)for 24H.

Numahr

November 19th, 2011, 12:01 PM

Lord Aguadillas, Sergent of the stellar half-fishes,

It appears that the Sea of Plenty in inhabited by people worshipping the God of Primordial Waters. Because of this fact, we know with precision the economic assets of this province and we an offer you a fair deal for it. We offer you a swap with the province of Lithia, South of Smallsea. This province offers an income of 72 gold coins every turn thanks to a taxable population of 7,120 souls. It gathers 30 resources every turn. We are ready to build a fort and a laboratory in it before handling it to you. We believe that this province + ceding rights North of Robber Home bridge is a fair deal in exchange of the Sea of Plenty.

As you see Agarthans are ready to go far to make peace with you. The only thing we cannot give up is Sea of Plenty, for obvious security reasons - we don't want our capital to be under permanent threat of hostile raiding. We hope this proposal can conclude our peace negotiations.

Nur-i Tagh, the Mountain Light
Holder of a full accreditation from the Deep Council
Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Jörmungandr, the Councilor of Gods

earcaraxe

November 19th, 2011, 01:16 PM

please postpone incoming turn (the one coming out possibly tonight)for 24H.

hosting postponed by 24 hrs. (i dont get the meaning of this "incoming", what did u mean?)

Anaconda

November 19th, 2011, 02:12 PM

please postpone incoming turn (the one coming out possibly tonight)for 24H.

hosting postponed by 24 hrs. (i dont get the meaning of this "incoming", what did u mean?)

Thanx you.

I meant the current turn, but I wrote the message before this turn was out and tried to indicate at I mean next turn, not the one going to be hosted.

Anaconda

November 19th, 2011, 02:58 PM

But I didnt need the extension now :P

If you guys are fast and play the turns tonight, I might need one tomorrow/monday, but if at least one of you takes his time until tomorrow evening I am all set.

pakoito

November 19th, 2011, 05:52 PM

Spider lovers, you forgot our conquering fees this turn.

R,UND.

Anaconda

November 19th, 2011, 06:23 PM

We did have shortage of money that turn, but we did send you late delivery this turn. We are also interested to see your progress in future.

Numahr

November 22nd, 2011, 05:12 PM

Lesson of the day: you simply can't play your D3 turn the day of your first child's birth :)

Please, I would appreciate if you could postpone the turn 24 hours so that I can try to get my mind re-adapt...

earcaraxe

November 22nd, 2011, 05:30 PM

congrats and postponed.

Anaconda

November 22nd, 2011, 05:37 PM

congratulations

Immaculate

November 22nd, 2011, 05:53 PM

Congrats!!!!

pakoito

November 22nd, 2011, 06:16 PM

Gratz!

Numahr

November 23rd, 2011, 05:43 PM

Thx guys! it changes life so much, we'll see whether it changes my strategies as well! ;)

Anyway, turn sent but the game seems like it does not want to host...???

Anaconda

November 25th, 2011, 04:47 AM

Ermor seems to have gone AI.

Anaconda

November 26th, 2011, 11:36 AM

Johannes announces that Machaka would like to sell water gems!

pakoito

November 28th, 2011, 01:52 PM

I think I'll turn AI next turn or something, I'm not enjoying this game anymore, every turn I just check research (dunno which spells because...noob) and wait until Abysia decides to attack me.

earcaraxe

November 28th, 2011, 01:56 PM

I would like to share a viewpoint: if u already have the option to go AI, u could try anything before that (mounting a crazy attack or something), since if things go unfortunate u can still go AI anytime.

pakoito

November 28th, 2011, 03:48 PM

I've tried some communion stuff, but troops are behind walls so it's going to be boring waiting for them to break siege. AI in a couple of turns, then.

Numahr

November 28th, 2011, 04:34 PM

Pakoito,

I would really appreciate, as your main partner in conflicts, if you could hold the reins of your nation.
- First of all, turns in war are less boring...
- Second, you can learn a lot, experiment, etc. even when you face seemingly uneven odds.
- Third, you would make us, and me, a favor, to stay as long as you can :)

Numahr

November 28th, 2011, 04:45 PM

Dear Johannes, noble representative of the Spider Riders,

Be sure that the Oracles remain true to their word. Our presence in the Robber Home area is within the framework of your call for intervention there and will limit itself to the provinces marked by you with a star, as the Other-Worldly-Half-Fishes could not durably hold the provinces against pressure from the Undead hordes.

In this context, you will be happy to know that we have crushed one of Ermor's ill-intended army just this turn in Worshin, making your siege of the Ermorian capital easier.

Nur-i-Tagh, the Mountain Light
On behalf of Jörmungandr, the Councilor of Gods

Numahr

November 29th, 2011, 06:26 PM

And so the beginning of the Year 4 of the Ascension Wars will be later called "The Era of the Ulmian Renaissance". The worshipers of Steel surprised all Wise and Oracles, their civilization flourishing as never expected, their borders reaching an extent never seen before.

Sang-i Khateratha,
Master Keeper of Memories

pakoito

November 30th, 2011, 11:48 PM

I quit the game last turn BTW, it was going to be a long-drought 4-5 turns of waiting for my castles to break for nothing. I surrender, good game but I won't play R'lyeh until I get more experience on this game.

earcaraxe

December 1st, 2011, 03:06 AM

thanks for playing!

Numahr

December 1st, 2011, 05:17 AM

To: Field Commander of the Spider Riders in Birman Highs
From: Nur-i Tagh, Prophet of Jörmungandr

Followers of the Great Nuhatussu,

The maps we received from you some time ago indicate that the province of Meer is open for third-part conquest. We note, however, that your field presence in Birman Highs is adequate to crush the Ermorian garrison in Meer. So we cede our rights on Meer, it is more logical that you take it.

Greetings from Jörmungandr to Nuhatussu!

earcaraxe

December 4th, 2011, 07:30 PM

Dear agarthans!

The monkey people would like to liberate the previously R'lyeh-opressed people at the shores of Bandar Log, namely 36, 27, 100, 65. We hope You find our claim noble and acceptable.

with friendship,
from Bandar Log

Aruna, bandar generalissimo

Numahr

December 5th, 2011, 05:57 AM

O brave Monkey Folk!

Your renown courage is one more proven to the whole world. Your awakening at the twilight of the bloody war our people fought against the R'lyeh abomination is very much welcome by the Deep Council. Of course, we would have appreciated your help earlier, when our lands and farmers were ravaged by the vicious mind-torturers. However, by the sole strength of our Ancient Soldiers, we defeated the Threat, not without paying a heavy price of blood.

In this context have no worry that our war-weary but victorious armies can handle the last strongholds of the other-worldly creatures. As I speak, Agarthan legions are already on their way to engage the Tentacles in Antediluvia (65) and the Sea of Carassos (36) in the next few days, so you need not risk your own inexperienced troops' lifes in these provinces. In particular, a brave Agarthan hero was slayed in Antediluvia by a vicious mind attack after killing almost the whole garrison, so killing the guilty mages has become a matter of honor for the Deep Council, and appropriate assets have been deployed for this particular task. However, as it will take one more month to reach Boat Eater (100) and Green Sea (27), I suggest you focus your offensive power in these areas and strike there immediately with all the forces you can dispatch. By so doing you will make a great contribution to ending this terrible war, and you shall keep these provinces as a fair reward, proportionate to your risk-taking and efforts in the war.

Bandari brothers! Clean your war drums from a long accumulated dust, awake your Yogis from their meditative sleep, join us and may the brotherly wrath of Agartha and Bandar Log vanquish the vicious tentacles for ever!

Shetyrs, War Veteran and High Representative of the Deep Council in the Dragon Pointe region

earcaraxe

December 5th, 2011, 10:54 AM

Dear Shetys!

You are mistaken if you think the two besieged bandar fortresses are just holding a festival to celebrate the first born monkey-octopus hybrid.

Finders keepers then.

Aruna, from the bandari high command

Numahr

December 5th, 2011, 11:48 AM

Aruna,

We know what you mean. We, Agarthans, have had such misfortune for many years now...

Have no worry: we will not invade the previously mentioned provinces (Boat Eater and Green Sea), so even if it takes your armed forces a bit of time to get there, they will find the enemy unspoiled. The Deep Council estimates these seas represent a fair reward for your support and contribution.

Now, let us close our minds and charge forward together to common victory!

Shetyrs, War Veteran and High Representative of the Deep Council in the Dragon Pointe region

Numahr

December 7th, 2011, 06:22 AM

*** Marble engraving for public distribution ***

O friends, leaders of civilized nations, mages and farmers!

The other-worldly half-fishes are vanquished for ever, thanks, to a large extant, to the brave efforts of Agarthan generals and soldiers. Never again your fishermen's wives will look at the seas with anxiety, unsure about what awaits their husbands beneath the waves... Know that the Ancient Oracle Shetyrs himself, War Veteran and High Representative of the Deep Council in the Dragon Pointe region, who addressed the last messages from Agartha to the world, was slain while sleeping in his cave by a last, vicious attack, with souls of guilty half-fishes coming back from the underworld to kill him in his dreams!

However, even though we now live in a much safer world, international affairs are still on-going. Therefore, as the great Jörmungandr works hard to bring back order, prosperity and brotherhood to this world, the Deep Council, fullly supportive of His tireless efforts, wishes to make the following statements:

- Johannes, Captain of the Eight-Legged! We note that your progress in Ermor's siege has been slow, of late. Equally, a swampy province located next to our Well-Protected Domains is still controlled by Ermor. Shall we intervene there to eliminate the Ermorian garrison? Do you need assistance for your siege operations?

- Ulmian brothers, we share the same civilizational roots. We rejoice of the constant progress of your renaissance, and we wish to invite some of your most talented artists to visit our Marble Halls. May this handful of extremely precious Earth gems cover their travel expenses, and contribute to your cultural flourishing.

- Tailed Ones! We appreciated very much the all-markata underwater ballet show you organized in seas next to our new underwater holdings! Seeing so many Markatas swim in harmony was truly divine. By this only you deserved well these two sea provinces.

Kiksanu the Mute,
Conqueror of Antediluvia,
Secretary General of the Deep Council

earcaraxe

December 7th, 2011, 05:31 PM

The Trades Ministry of the Four-armed people offers fire and air gems, for any combination of earth, astral and death.

the prohpetess-princes of the markatas

Numahr

December 8th, 2011, 06:37 AM

*** Admin technical message ***

We are on turn 46, but I did not receive any new .trn file. I went three times to the game admin page to request my turn be resent, but I did not receive anything.

Earcaraxe, maybe you can check my email address? In any case, please postpone hosting until I can receive my turn...

Did any of you experience the same problem???

Numahr

December 8th, 2011, 12:30 PM

*** Technical / admin message ***

Finally the Great Lama has sent me my turn, after 10 or so requests. I will light a candle in His name.

Numahr

December 9th, 2011, 09:52 AM

Numahr

December 9th, 2011, 10:11 AM

People of Tien Chi!

Long ago you started an unjustified war against the brilliant Ulmian civilization. We believe you betrayed your own centuries-old principles of stability and equilibrium by this aggressive act. Fate, in Her wisdom, has sent you a clear message by destroying your army under the walls of Ulm.

Ulm has then counter-attacked you, making for a re-balancing of tEquilibrium. Your mages and celestial servants, helped by even stranger creatures summoned from far away, have helped you to preserve your ancient kingdom's integrity. And so the equilibrium and balance of power have now been restored.

Now Jörmungandr wishes to provide you with a friendly advise: do not commit the same mistake twice, and stop the flow of violence you once unleashed. You may want to reconquer provinces lost to you, but do not attack Ulm's heartland East of the city of Ard and of the Feldan Forest.

The Ulmian civilization cannot be compared to the Ermorian and R'lyeh barbarians. They brought us, Agarthans, a new breath when we had lost all hope, and our World still needs their lights. If you consider yourself fiend of the Ancient Ones, then consider the Ulmian principality in these regions [41, 42, 47, 50] as part of the Agarthan Well-Protected Domains. Thus aggression in these regions will mean withdrawal from our peace treaty
[the NAP3 count down will apply of course]

We trust in your wisdom!

Ratheldun the Bane of Tentacles,
General Secretary of the Deep Council

earcaraxe

December 9th, 2011, 12:17 PM

O four-armed brothers!

It is with great concern that the Deep Council Oracles have felt about the disruption of Arcane Enchantments weaved by your Nation. At the same time, it seems that your Lord Szivi has disappeared from His divine seat in Namor. Are the monkey folk orphans of their loving Master Druid? We hope to get reassuring news from you!

Ratheldun the Bane of Tentacles,
General Secretary of the Deep Council

Dear Lords of the Depths!

Apparently Szivi couldnt put down the new episode of thw twilight series, a book called "book of high power", and he was so into it that he also forgot to bath and eat regularly and to keep the 2 astral pearls on himself for casting of returning. So the eator of god cameth and eateth him.

We kindly ask anyone to leave our nation the opportunity to revive both the oak and the pyre, thanks.

Aruna

Hylobius

December 9th, 2011, 04:40 PM

And so the equilibrium and balance of power have now been restored.

Even as we speak the armies of Ulm are ravaging our domain and sieging our cities. The Iron Angels of Ulm have defeated our best. Where is this equilibrium of which you speak?

Sleeping monkeys, awaken before it is too late.

earcaraxe

December 9th, 2011, 05:42 PM

Dear Johannes of the spider-lords!

This little envoy has come with these girfts and the inquery from our leaders: how are u nowadays? your plan for the future? bloodlust of ur warriors?

from bandar log

Numahr

December 9th, 2011, 07:45 PM

Emperor of Tien Chi!

As we said, in case it requires clarifications, it is understandable that you conquer back all lost provinces. We only request you to leave the last 4 provinces of the Ulmian heartland. Ulm's counter-attack was legitimate as it was a case of self-defense. Now that you have proven your right over your territory, be reasonable and do not crush a brilliant civilization for the sake of revenge

As we, Agarthans, have been with Ermor. When coming to the assistance of Machaka, we did not try to get more provinces than required: we always coordinated our attacks with Johannes, letting the spider riders conquer whatever they could.

Johannes of Machaka!

As we have stated before, we believe in a world of peace. When the prophecy fulfills and the time of Ascension arrives, Jörmungandr is willing to consider the best out of the best to chose his close and trusted deputies. He will need the assistance of the most powerful mages and warriors of this world. The Great Nuhatussu's leadership in the Ermorian war commands respect. He and His followers share our own folk's attraction for heat. The Machakan burning plains and the Agarthan deep halls beneath are made to unite!

The Agarthan - Machakan friendship has already been demonstrated during the Ermorian war, when we collaborated in a genuinely cooperative manner over which provinces would be for whom to administrate. Let us pursue and strengthen this friendship. If global peace was to be broken in our world, let us fight side by side! Be sure that the Agarthan riches, such as the token of friendship this envoy sends to you, will then be for us to share with you.

O four-armed neighbors!

What does this sudden war-mongering mean? "Bloodlust"? Was not the Ermorian heresy crushed already, as well as the other-worldly mind-rapers?

Ratheldun the Bane of Tentacles,
General Secretary of the Deep Council

Hylobius

December 9th, 2011, 10:04 PM

T'ien Ch'i is an empire in decline, having squandered it's resources on a futile war with Ulm. As you know that war was initiated by our previous leadership. We would be content to live in peace while we await the inevitable ascension of the Lord of Agartha.

We have no armies in the lands that Agartha claims for Ulm, yet most of Ulms armies are deep in our territories and sieging our cities. Our reinforcements reached Ard and saved the city just as the fortifications were breeched. Why does Agartha lecture and threaten T'ien Ch'i instead of lecturing Ulm?

We have never encountered diplomats from Ulm, only soldiers, and representatives from Ulm have been completely absent from this meeting place. Why does Agartha speak for Ulm, and why does Agartha assume that Ulm wants peace or that Ulm will accept the equilibrium imposed by Agartha? If T'ien Ch'i accepts Agartha's ultimatum and Ulm does not, will they then be similarly punished? Surely all of your wayward children deserve the same treatment Great Lord.

We await your ascension ceremony oh lord of Agartha. Perhaps the sleepy monkeys will awake in time to attend as well.

Yours in subservience

Numahr

December 10th, 2011, 08:35 AM

Lady of Tien Chi!

The Deep Council Oracles have been touched by the arguments put forward by your wise lawyers. In response, I am bearer of the following message:

- Jörmungandr, the Councilor of Gods, wishes to re-instate Harmony in this world. He does not wish to exterminate all other vehicles of the divine! That is why He is called "Councilor of Gods". Therefore He feels much honored by your plea of allegiance. Surely Li Xue, Guardian of the Bridge, and Her bureaucrats can help in administrating some the celestial plans, as Jörmungandr and His Agarthan servants have less interest in this aspect than in others. Details on your new domains shall be made clear later, at the time of Ascension.

- In the short term, considering your readiness for Jörmungandr's Ascension, the Deep Council withdraws our previously stated guarantee over the Ulmian heartland with immediate effect.

- In this context we call for Khorne, Prince of (some) Mountains: are you ready to clearly and publicly recognize Jörmungandr's Lordship?

- Li Xue, surely your plea of allegiance changes our approach to the Ulmian-Tien Chi conflict, in a favorable way for your kingdom. Still, we need to wait one moon in order to get (or not) the awaited feedback from Nuhatussu the Great and Khorne the Strong on their willingness to collaborate with Jörmungandr, the Councilor of Gods. Based on these, we will assess the situation and take position during the next moon.

May the infinite strength of the mountains give you vigor and vitality in this Spring!

Ratheldun the Bane of Tentacles,
General Secretary of the Deep Council
Interim messenger of Jörmungandr, the Councilor of Gods
(a new prophet of a whole new dimension is being nominated and will become the new messenger of Jörmungandr next moon)

Anaconda

December 11th, 2011, 09:37 AM

This manuscript, written by an unkown voice of the lord, was confiscated when the rebuilding began after the Machakan-Ermorian War. It was delivered to the prophet him self for his considerations.

My eye-witness account of the Battle of White Peaks (as we became to know it)

I finished my education in the temple of He Whose Name Should not be Said long after the war had begun between the walking dead and spiders of the God forest. When the high priests finally announced I am ready to serve the one and true god, the war still reigned in South. In hurry, I gathered all my belongings (that was; temple garments and some minor trinkets) and ran South to attend the army of proud and noble Machaka people. I was eager to do my own part by encouraging and blessing our spiders and men-at-arms alike.

My endurance is weak, but traveling with new well-made sandals and light backpack I made haste and reached the army encamped in the pass of White Peaks. It was late summer, but the sun was high from morning till late afternoon every day, and it was still very very hot. In Machaka kingdom it usually is all year long. Later, when we marched south, I was told by veterans that in south the darkness reigns and there might be days we wont see the sun at all.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/TheturningpointofErmor-Machakawar01.jpg

When I finally reached the army, the camp was in hassle; Ermorian skeletons, undead horses and evil wizards were approaching. The scouts had brought disturbing news only few days ago. The dead on horse were so tall and so numerous that they would block out the sun. The newly-appointed – for me at least - commander Martell laughed that the only light we would need was the light of our magical fire.

I was hearty welcomed as every hand and leg was needed, no matter were you a warrior, a spider or a priest. The Ermor would show up with their full numbers any time. Because the undead wont get tired, their march was fast and at the morning of the day after tomorrow the pass was swarming half rotten monsters. With them came the unholy darkness. And cold wind.

Our runners had been trying to spot the troops enemy had with 'em. It became apparent that the core of their army consisted of longdead horsemen. They would charge the field with the speed of lighting and overrun our first lines easily. Ermor had brought also rag-tag archers with them, and in the front handfull of unknown gigantic monsters from distant lands shook the ground, driving all possible camp followers – harlots and merchants alike – away.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/TheErmorianarmy.jpg

But the most dangerous troops were non of above. The Ermorians supported their undead cavalrymen with fearsome number of mature and experienced praetorian infantry. Those, our leaders knew, would be our undoing... Our troops had no steel to match theirs, and no experience at all if compared to them. The wise men from all villages had been working months now to figure out the riddle of magical fire arrows. The breakthrough was there lying in front of their eyes... yet so was the Ermorian farmy, only few days too early.

The army was led by several grand theurgs, experienced and wicked old men who were told to be enslaving virgin girls from all conquered villages for their amusement as much as for their food. I think this was only a horror story told by mothers to their small spider children so they would behave.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/TheMachakanarmy.jpg

The commander Martell, after hearing the strenght of their dead on horse, decided he should spread the spider groups all across the field. Therefore, spiders were found from both flanks and from the very front of our center. Militias and light infantry were located on our right flank, and archers took center and left. The amount of our heavy infantry was so puny, that they were ordered to guard the rear for tricks and charge the field only if everything else should fail.

It was widely known that enemy's wizards could kill hundreds of troops with their malign magic. Therefore Him, Whose Name Should not be Spoken, had cometh him self to protect us from the enemy's evilry. On the other hand, ours was magical fire. Young and old tribal sorceress' from the all corners of the nation had gathered to the pass of White Peaks to make fire rain from the sky on the enemy. All priests were assigned to banish undead enemies, though it was known that theurgs could protect them well.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Firstoffour.jpg
http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Secondoffour.jpg
http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Thirdoffour.jpg
http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Fourthoffour.jpg

The battle begun with spells. Wizards from the both sides targeted troops with battle magic: flares, flame bolts, paralyzes, cold bolts, as well as protective spells such as anti magic, protection of sepulchre and legions of steel were seen all around the field. While neat and effective, our fire spell reserve was in short supply and it became fast clear that our sorceress' could not match the enemy's wizards in hurting.

Ermor, against all expectations, did not throw their cavarly on us in the beginning. The dead horses stood calmly still, and waited while our spiders crossed the field to meet their front. Instead, they sent the enormous, four-legged monsters to take out our spiders. Spiders were already spitting web, when they met. A single longdead horseman burned like a torch somewhere in the back. His unholy howl of agony devastetad our minds.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Behemotkuva.jpg

Then, suddenly the whole army of the undead moved forward, and slaughter begun. Hoplites grew jumpy, and charged the field passing the archers and trying to reach the spiders before it was their time to march in. It appeared to have been a critical – success. They held the line long after the spiders were done.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Theclash.jpg

The sounds and colors of a full scale magic battle were as beautifull as they were horrifying. I had never experienced anything like this. Red, yellow, pitch black, white, blue... they were all present among hundreds of other colors I had never seen before (and thus didnt know what to call them).

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Thecoloursofmodernbattle.jpg

When Ermor ranks grew thinner, the theurgs started reanimating new undead from recently dead soldiers. Our troops, already high with hopes of victory were overcome by fear. The abominations just would not stay down.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Theundeadrising.jpg

The center of both armies held, but the left of both armies make some progress. Ermor routed spiders and infantry on their left, and heavy infantry swept Machaka's left empty of undead. The fresh undead hurried to fill the gaps on Ermor's right. Machaka archers ran out of arrows at this point, and were formed up to meet the undead in a fierce melee.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Rallyingthemissiletroops.jpg

While the archers and hoplites leveled the Ermor's right all the way to the end, archers were needed in the center and Machaka's right, too. With commander Oberyn Martell leading the way with his flamewhip, archers engaged the Ermor's leftovers in the center of the battlefield.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Themomentoftruth.jpg

Eventually archers and hoplites worked their bloody way up to the theurgs. Some of them chose to keep their honor and stood, rather than run like the rest. Theurgs fell last, slain by the Machaka's stern archers in a melee.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/Itsdone.jpg

The commander Oberyn Martell was awarded the role of supreme commander of all Machaka armies for his abilities to lead with example as well as demonstrate tactical understanding. He became very popular among troops and young tribal girls showed up to honor and please this great man. On the other hand, losses were unbearable even on our side. It took the army more than a month to reach the condition to take the field again. But when we did, we marched straight south in order to help prophet Johannes' siege around Ermor's seat of power. We met some Ermor garrison on our way, but they could not put up serious resistance.

While the nation of Ermor was not yet beaten, it was the turningpoint of the Ermorian-Machakan War and made the collapse of the undead empire inevitable.

http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j464/RegimentalFinn/fame%20and%20riches%20game/TheturningpointofErmor-MachakaWar02.jpg

Because of being exhausted from the prolonged conflict, Johannes chose to read the manuscript and have hes rest before accepting any envoys from other kingdoms.

Ossa

December 11th, 2011, 04:26 PM

Mighty Jörmungandr!

The Ulmish people are bred for war, not for talking. Our diplomats are too busy carving our messanges into the skin of our slain foes to attend peaceful negotiations.

Furthermore the Iron Order forbids common Ulmish people from talking to strangers, especially if they look so magical attuned like the witches of Tien'Chi!

Though we managed to conquer huge areas of their land, these conquests were only short timed raids, as we do not possess the necessary manpower to hold their territory and their huge monsters prove to hard even for our angels to kill. We are back to the few mountains we always were king of.

To answer your message - Khorne, prince of the few mountains and Iron Lord of the Ulmish people accepts your superiority and bows to your might.

Numahr

December 11th, 2011, 07:09 PM

*** Stone Engraving brought to all Nations by the Arcane Powers of Sang-i Setareh, Prophet of Jörmungandr ***

Khorne, the Iron Lord of a Few Mountains!

The Agarthan Nation is deeply honored by your message. Be sure that Jörmungandr will find a divine responsibility proportionate to your greatness at the time of Ascension. The position of Gate Keeper of the Main Mountain Hall is reserved, as things go.

Li Xue, Guardian of the Bridge, and Khorne, the Iron Lord of a Few Mountains!

Agarthan Keepers of Memories, lawyers of the Deep Council, have studied the delicate situation created by the act of allegiance of two warring states.

As a result, we hereby declare that war is legal until the time of Ascension, as Lords under plea of allegiance need to prove their respective worths before official positions are distributed according to their respective merits.

However, at the same time, allegiance to Jörmungandr, the Councilor of Gods means placing oneself under His protection. Therefore the heartland of both Ulm (the four provinces previously mentioned) and Tien Chi (the so-called Tien Chi Island) are considered parts of the Well-Protected Domains, under personal guarantee of Jörmungandr for their original owners. Attack to these provinces is not absolutely illegal; but holding them more than one moon against the will of their legitimate owner is clearly conflicting with the Agarthan guarantee, and may expose the attacker to hostilities from the Agarthan Armed Forces.

This is a fair treatment to both parties.

All!

Nothing can be expected from the Monkeys who live in a state of anarchy since their Lord died, victim of his own foolish and irresponsible experiences, and Jörmungandr may have to bring order to these lands.

But the Nation of Machaka is well managed and experiencing a relative golden age, almost comparable to what Agarthans have been enjoying for several years by now. So we need to know, O Great Nuhatassu, do you want to help us build the New Order, and share our prosperity?

earcaraxe

December 12th, 2011, 09:35 AM

What is this sudden change in tone dear deep-dwellers?

earcaraxe

December 12th, 2011, 09:53 AM

hosting postponed by 24 hrs.

Numahr

December 12th, 2011, 11:45 AM

*** Special Message from Sang-i Setareh, Prophet of Jörmungandr, to the Glorious Nation of Bandar Log, addressed to all, from the tiniest Markata to the wisest White Ones ***

Monkey-folk!

Fear not, for Jörmungandr's love for all his subjects and future subjects is infinite.

Of course, his judgment over the foolish acts of Szivi, the so-called "Hidden One" and self-proclaimed Lord of Bandar Log, is another matter. Clearly the fact that the Eater of Gods Himself came to punish him is a clear enough indication that the petty druid, in his greed for power, went too far and threatened to break the Order of this World. As a result, you poor monkey Nation is now Orphan, without leadership! A very dangerous situation we can only describe as "anarchy". Only the Tentacles experienced such a power vacancy in recorded history and we all saw to which disastrous ends it took us all.

In this context, Jörmungandr extends His Loving Hand to you, orphan monkey-folk! Reject the sinful Szivi, let him remain "hidden", as he claims to be, until the end of times, and send us your declaration of allegiance to the Councilor of Gods, who shall therefore free you from the burden of administrating your land. You will be able to focus on your meditative activities and fruit orgies depending on personal preferences while we take a good care of all other, boring tasks. And so with the Ascension of Jörmungandr, under the wise administration of His deputies Li Xue, Khorne (and Nuhatussu?), your peaceful people and their holy White Ones will enjoy a privileged and peaceful existence for the next millenia to come. And never Jörmungandr will leave you, His beloved children, alone as Szivi did, so inconsequently.

You only have to reject Szivi's claim for sovereignty over your nation to allow this new golden era to start!

earcaraxe

December 13th, 2011, 06:45 AM

Jörmungandr!

Your courtship is both misleading and late. I'm already back, wiser than ever.

Szivi

Numahr

December 13th, 2011, 11:54 AM

Szivi the Sinner,

If you are wise, why would you deny your people this offer for a golden age? Or is it that you need to use them for your own greedy goals, as made evidently clear by the circumstances of your temporary expedition to Tartarus?

Confess and you shall meet mercy.

Sang-i Setareh,
On behalf of Jörmungandr, God of primordial Waters, Patron of Soldiers

Numahr

December 13th, 2011, 04:00 PM

Sorry a bit of rush on my part. Can you please add +24h to this turn? Thanks in advance.

Numahr

earcaraxe

December 13th, 2011, 04:02 PM

done

Numahr

December 14th, 2011, 08:13 AM

*** Personal and confidential message for Szivi the Sinner from Jörmungandr, the God of Primordial Waters, Patron of SOldiers ***

O Szivi!

I break the diplomatic etiquette of sending messages through my beloved subjects as the matter at hand is too serious.

I remember the times when we fought together against the other-worldly R'lyeh abomination. A time of harmony. A time, unfortunately, which now belongs to the past.

Your case, I have to say with sadness, is in-defensible. Basically your presence in this world is not welcome anymore as it has become contrary to harmony. The circumstances in which the Eater of God himself came to punish you, because of your monstrous greed for power, are a clear illustration. This should have closed the case. And now you are here again, after a few moons spent in Tartarus with the heretic Aguadillas and B'Jandis. I guess we will never know what business exactly you had in there with the very abominations we banished from this world. It only makes your case, I am afraid, even more suspicious. And now you refused answering diplomatic messages sent by my servitors.

It is with great regret that I have to take the logical consequences of your acts, and declare you physical re-incarnation in this world and your lordship over the monkeyfolk as a violation of this world's Laws and Equilibrium.

You cannot imagine the pain I feel at taking this difficult, albeit necessary decision. As a gesture of mercy, we give you one alternative: recognize immediately your sins and my Lordship over this world, and, considering your devouring passion for texts, through which your sins became obvious to all, you shall become "marble engraver of the 317th Cave-Hall, 17th Grade, 4th Rank". You immediate supervisor, a Pale One former Sergeant made half-crazy and inapt for *organized* war by the Tentacles' mind attacks, has been requested by myself to show mercy on you.

You have three months to present yourself at an Agarthan border post where the local garrison will take good care of you. If, by early autumn in the Year 5 of the Ascension War, you have not surrendered yourself, all nations will be authorized to take any action necessary to suppress the threat your very presence creates for the world's harmony.

Your own fate lies in your hands, friend. We urge you to follow the path of love and redemption!

earcaraxe

December 14th, 2011, 12:05 PM

Jörmungadr!

I'm sure there is an explanation for that u wasnt able come up with a more plausible casus belli for ur brewing agression. To found ur attitude based on a horror's decision on its own menu, to identify justice with that said horror's thinking, signals u are an able and trustful leader of ur people.

I suppose its a mere coincidence, that Bandar Log's economy is the second most powerful to urs, and it represents the most threat to ur world-conquering plans.

Szivi, beloved god of the monkeys

earcaraxe

December 14th, 2011, 12:10 PM

Dear Leaders of Machaka and T'ien C'hi!

I have sent this bird of paradise with this letter, to ask u if U would like to forge an alliance versus the agarthans. My empire quite possibly cant stand much of a chance versus the deep-dwellers, being about half of its size.
I offer both of u a NAP5 in the name of my people, and an alliance until the last candle lit in jörmungadr's name is blown away.

yours sincerely

Szivi

Hylobius

December 14th, 2011, 01:41 PM

The war between T'ien Ch'i and Ulm continutes unabated. All of our troops and resources are committed.

earcaraxe

December 14th, 2011, 05:15 PM

I see. I order my people to give u a helping hand in that war.

Numahr

December 14th, 2011, 06:33 PM

Dear Li Xue!

We have to request a clarification here. We have issued a guarantee over your heartland, and adopted a neutral position in your war, in exchange of your allegiance to Jörmungandr.

You cannot at the same time proclaim yourself friend of our enemy.

So we have to respectfully ask you to make clear your allegiance in full transparency, so that we know what policy the Deep Council should adopt toward our Western borders.

On our part, we stand by our words. And we believe your interests match ours. Do you expect you can stop Szivi in a world where his dreams come true and he has crushed the Mountains Wise? No, in this world Szivi will leave no chance to other nations. But siding with Szivi means turning your very capital into a front line target, and not in the long term...

On the other hand, remaining true to your plea of allegiance will allow you to earn a place close to Jörmungandr in the New Order to come, and will ensure your empire in decline experiences a new golden age.

True, we do not promise you help in your war against Ulm. But we guaranteed your heartland against any attacker, including Ulm. Our position is fair and impartial. What we promise you (as well as Ulm) is even more precious than a few gold coins, gems or trinkets: a guaranteed seat at the Council of Gods, with a complete defensive alliance against anyone threatening your very existence. Do not throw away this offer to become someone else's cheap mercenary!

Finally, whatever option you take, we still consider both our nations as bound by the Oath of Peace we committed to years ago [NAP3].

Sang-i Setareh,
on behalf of Jörmungandr

Hylobius

December 14th, 2011, 07:25 PM

We have not proclaimed ourselves to be a friend of the monkeys. We have no relationship with the monkeys. As I said all of our troops and resources are committed against Ulm, and we see no early end to this war.

Numahr

December 15th, 2011, 05:14 AM

Thanks for clarification, noble Li Xue. May your Kingdom revive like the volcano awakening from under its own dust.

Szivi, we invite you to stop your petty attempts at corrupting the hearts of Lords who, in spite of lesser "economic power", as you say, display greater morale value and honor.

This interest on the economic aspect of things, by the way, is quite unworthy of a Lord of your status and shows something of your greed: it is well-known that only farmers, traders and accountants care about gold. Our Lord Jörmungandr, on His part, is concerned with the Invisible, greater Justice and the world's Harmony. From this point of view, He has certainly more in common with the wise White Ones than you have.

Szivi! while we still have time! Listen to our Lord's message of redemption, free the monkey folk from your yoke and have the wisdom to choose the honorable path that is offered to you, that will save the lives of many!

Sang-i Setareh,
on behalf of Jörmungandr

Numahr

December 15th, 2011, 05:51 AM

*** Admin-related message ***

What about permanent 48h turns? That would be great for me considering the probable content of future turns...

Anaconda

December 15th, 2011, 12:21 PM

I am for it!

earcaraxe

December 15th, 2011, 02:54 PM

Obviously u r the one who can save the lifes of the monkeyfolk, since your soldiers will be slaughtering them in a couple month when u launch ur invasion, at ur command.

Thanks for clarification, noble Li Xue. May your Kingdom revive like the volcano awakening from under its own dust.

Szivi, we invite you to stop your petty attempts at corrupting the hearts of Lords who, in spite of lesser "economic power", as you say, display greater morale value and honor.

This interest on the economic aspect of things, by the way, is quite unworthy of a Lord of your status and shows something of your greed: it is well-known that only farmers, traders and accountants care about gold. Our Lord Jörmungandr, on His part, is concerned with the Invisible, greater Justice and the world's Harmony. From this point of view, He has certainly more in common with the wise White Ones than you have.

Szivi! while we still have time! Listen to our Lord's message of redemption, free the monkey folk from your yoke and have the wisdom to choose the honorable path that is offered to you, that will save the lives of many!

Sang-i Setareh,
on behalf of Jörmungandr

earcaraxe

December 15th, 2011, 02:57 PM

*** Admin-related message ***

What about permanent 48h turns? That would be great for me considering the probable content of future turns...

I'm content with 30 hrs as it was declared at the start of the game (so i think everyone has veto-power over a change of this)

I'm curious about all of the player's preferences about hosting tho.

And im also open to give postponements in special cases, like a few extra-difficult turns and such. My experience is, that after a war has started, the successive turns become much simpler)

Hylobius

December 15th, 2011, 09:40 PM

I'm fine with 30 hours until the 25th and then I will be out of town for two weeks and could use extra time. Then again it is primarily the two of you who will have the big turns to put together, not us lesser races :p

earcaraxe

December 16th, 2011, 07:26 AM

Jörmungadr!

I the name of the yogi's and all of the monkeys I would like to express my worries about ur state of mind. Judging from ur last three messages u more and more sound like a parrot: keep saying what u already said.

The Most Wise Szivi has brought us nothing but properity and peace as we can see it with our own eyes.. Not that im comfortable comparing u to Him, but u promise to bring us death, war and suffering.

I'm sure thats something u can rationalize, so please bring it on for my (and the yogis) amusement.

Aruna, Bandar Defence Coordinator

earcaraxe

December 16th, 2011, 07:31 AM

Dear Johannes of the Spiders!

The agarthan warmachine will begin its conquest soon. I would like u to know our opinion: we are convinced, if Bandar falls, there will be no power to stop them, ever. It's time to join forces.

Please let us know, if we can help u out with something: artifacts, gems, gold.

The Markata Prophet

earcaraxe

December 16th, 2011, 07:32 AM

after some pondering i extended hosting to 48 hrs.

Numahr

December 19th, 2011, 11:47 AM

Szivi,

You are caught breaking the Oath of peace [NAP3] our nations had signed. Hostilities were supposed to start this month only. You waited 2 moons only instead of the three promised!

This should not surprise anyone from you, of course. But do not believe you can win a war with such treachery tricks, at the end Justice will know Her side.

Sang-i Setareh
in Behalf of Jörmungandr, God of Primordial Waters and Patron of Soldiers

earcaraxe

December 20th, 2011, 03:58 AM

Dear Jörmungy,

It is my fault, as this trigger-happy warrior got loose. She somehow misunderstood the message, which contained only the plans for next months defensive movements. I hear she only found a pagan temple and some armed locals, so not much harm is done hopefully. She will leave immediately.

Aruna

earcaraxe

December 20th, 2011, 03:58 AM

Numahr

December 20th, 2011, 04:32 AM

Aruna! Please don't take Agarthans for fools! I don't even dare to transmit your message to the Deep Council! A frenzy half God equipped with demonic weapons teleports to our territory "by accident"?

Not only this but an innocent Shambler tribal chief was found killed, his brain changed into spoiled mashed bananas; and one of Jörmungandr's son, also located in a sea next to your lands, felt some nasty mind inquisition, although he easily resisted it.

And you really want us to believe that all these illegal, treacherous acts of agression were misinterpreted orders? This is not serious. Either Szivi gives up all claims of Lordship over the monkey folk as we asked, and we can forgive him; or either he claims to be the Lord of Bandar Log, and then he has to take responsibilities for these actions, and not make some exotic claims on "misunderstood orders". Do not throw away what little honor you still hold in the face of the world!

Sang-i Setareh
in Behalf of Jörmungandr, God of Primordial Waters and Patron of Soldiers

earcaraxe

December 20th, 2011, 04:39 AM

One of we love about Szivi most, is he doesnt pretend to be perfect (only close to Nirvana). As Shinvaputra, the yogi says: Mistakes are our beacons to our true selves.

Aruna, from bandari high command

Numahr

December 20th, 2011, 05:07 AM

We shall help you to light many beacons to Szivi's true self.

Sang-i Setareh
in Behalf of Jörmungandr, God of Primordial Waters and Patron of Soldiers

earcaraxe

December 20th, 2011, 05:22 AM

:d :d

Anaconda

December 22nd, 2011, 03:17 PM

I could use extension of some 6H

earcaraxe

December 22nd, 2011, 07:46 PM

postponed by 12, to be sure.

Anaconda

December 23rd, 2011, 05:37 AM

wat? new turns are in...

Numahr

December 23rd, 2011, 07:34 AM

From staling data, it looks like Szivi also took a one-month holiday... Obviously every thing did not go as planned re. hosting

earcaraxe

December 23rd, 2011, 02:59 PM

I have no idea what happened, i postponed it for sure. it took me by surprise too, as i have also staled.

earcaraxe

December 23rd, 2011, 05:02 PM

because of the holidays i postponed hosting by 48 hrs and turned quickhost off.

Anaconda

December 24th, 2011, 07:42 AM

awww my bad. I was driving with dim lights. I meant originally 12H, not 6H but even when you postponed 12H I still couldnt make it. I was stirring in my slumber. lulz I was too tired to think clearly after that work day.

Numahr

December 27th, 2011, 04:54 AM

Jörmungandr!

I'm already back, wiser than ever.

Szivi

Are you, really?

Szivi, o Szivi the Invisible!
We urge you to come back at the head of the monkey folk.

Alternatively, if you have realized Jörmungandr was right and has Justice on His side, surrender peacefully and save lives.

Sang-i Setareh
in Behalf of Jörmungandr, God of Primordial Waters and Patron of Soldiers

earcaraxe

December 27th, 2011, 05:51 AM

You are right!

Im hesitant to lead my people into bloodbath, so i surrender them. I have an invitation from Amaimon whom i met during my most recent interplane experiments.

Lets announce Jörmungadr the leader of these islands.

Szivi, the wise

Numahr

December 27th, 2011, 07:46 AM

Dear all Lords of Lesser but Respected Nations!

With Szivi's disappearance and his message of surrender received from afar, the Deep Council assesses that no standing power in this world can oppose Jörmungandr's claim to true Godhood.

Unambiguous messages of allegiance have also been received from the lords of Tien Chi and Ulm.

Nuhatussu! The time of ambiguity is over. Do you plea allegiance to our Lord Jörmungandr, as all others did? Refusal to do so at this late hour means you become a threat to the world's New Order and is equivalent to a declaration of war. Acceptance will grant you a seat at the Council of Minor Gods, next to Khorne and Li Xue. We expect a clear answer from you.

Khorne and Li Xue! Your allegiance has already been accepted. Jörmungandr will soon let you know your new responsibilities as members of the Council of Minor Gods.

Sang-i Setareh
in Behalf of Jörmungandr, God of Primordial Waters and Patron of Soldiers

earcaraxe

December 28th, 2011, 07:34 PM

Congratulations Numahr, u played awesome!

And I really enjoyed the role-playing writings, especially Anaconda's drawings!

Hylobius

December 28th, 2011, 08:27 PM

Sorry to hear that the game has ended so soon. I was looking forward to the end of game blood bath. Congratulations to Numahr on a fine win, and thanks to Ossa for the lessons learned.

pakoito

December 28th, 2011, 08:32 PM

heehehehhe it's good to know. Expected result TBH, Agartha was the toughest enemy from beginning to end.

Anaconda

December 28th, 2011, 10:52 PM

I wasnt really expeting this to end so soon but its ok.

I faced a strategic problem, didnt know the end game for my Machaka. All options available seemed more or less sub-par.

I am happy it ended like this, it would have been sad to see all that hard work cruble to dust :D

congratulations!

don_Pablo

December 28th, 2011, 11:47 PM

MA Agartha winning a game??:shock:

Sounds exciting!!! :D
Congratulations!

Numahr

December 29th, 2011, 05:22 AM

Sang-i Setareh's last words are so recorded, before his substance merged with the Mountain itself:

All, praise your new lord as Jörmungandr, God of Primordial Waters, Lord of Agartha, is now the new Pantakrator!

As He prepares to ascend to true Godhood, it is time to assign their new roles to lesser Lords. In this Deep Hall exquisitely decorated by the best Agarthan craftsmen of 2 millenia ago, in the presence of the spirits of the Agarthan Kings of Old re-enchanted in the thousands of statues surrounding us, all the main protaganists of the Ascension War still alive are gathered. The Granite Throne you see here, after having long been a Kings' throne, is now a Godly Throne.

O Khorne!
You have been a faithful neighbor, and your martial prowess has allowed you keeping your mountains homeland against all odds. In recognition of this, you shall become the new Gatekeeper, entrusted with the security of Jörmungandr's 1001 private Palaces, Mountain Lakes and deeps, at the exception of Mountain peaks. As a lesser manifestation of the Divine, you shall respond to Jörmungandr Himself only in this domain. Come forth! You shall stand by Jörmungandr's right in the Hall of the Granite Throne.

O Li Xue!
What a nice display of pugnacity your nation showed. Wisdom you may have forsaken in your foolish war against Ulm, but bravery and creativity you have not. By your skillful counter-offensives, you have largely contributed to create a state of brutal but efficient Equilibrium in your never-ending war against Ulm. In recognition of your deeds and their beneficary consequences, and taking in consideration your mastery of the High Planes and of the Five Elements, you shall be entrusted with the more arcane responsibility of Holder of the Equilibrium. You shall estimate the deeds of Jörmungandr's subjects and advise Him on potential threats on the World's Harmony. As a lesser manifestation of the Divine, you shall respond to Jörmungandr Himself only in this domain. Come forth! You shall stand by Jörmungandr's left in the Hall of the Granite Throne.

O Nuhatussu!
Your case is different. You have fought skillfully against the "Ermorian abomination" (but was it such an abomination really? or were not their experiments in mastering Death itself, another legitimate path to the Divine?), but never did you plea allegiance to our Lord. You never answered our friendly invitations to kneel at Jörmungandr's power. Therefore you cannot be granted the status of Lesser Manifestation of the Divine. You have, however, deserved Jörmungandr's respect by the respect you showed to our oath of peace. Considering your wisdom and your special connection to the eight-legged, you shall become the Personal Secretary of the God of primordial Waters, Master Librarian, Keeper of the Archives. You shall engrave all our Lord's Holy Words. You shall keep the Marble Archives safe with your eight-legged legions, and record all future events and praises to our Lord according to Jörmungandr's will. Serve Him well. Come forth! You shall seat at His feet in the Hall of the Granite Throne.

And now rejoice, as the time of Ascension and a New Era has arrived. Here is Jörmungandr, in His Glory, the new Pantokrator!

[Non-roleplaying comments on the game soon...]

Numahr

December 29th, 2011, 07:08 AM

Double post, sorry

Numahr

December 29th, 2011, 07:11 AM

Honestly, this end (not the victory itself) took me by surprise too. But if Earcaraxe felt Bandar Log could not fight back at me, then I think he is right, we should rather move on to another game than spend hours on this one with no surprise concerning the conclusion.

Now let me rewind the scenario of this game from Agartha's perspective:

1. Origins: a long-sought revenge

I love MA Agartha thematically and I have played with them twice, two epic failures. Then they were my main opponent in my last game (the one with the AAR), allowing me to learn a lot on the nation's strengths and weaknesses as of CBM 1.8x. And then CBM bought in new changes, which I believed could make the nation very competitive at all phases of the game.

I had designed and tested at least 10 different pretenders for this nation during the last months, and I believed I had found the optimum according to my play-style. So I thought, let's be stubborn and make one more attempt! Let's finally show to the world what this nation is capable of!

2. Early game: luck and martial prowess shape a world power

I had asked for a hand-made distribution of starting positions to avoid unbalances, such as having a nation with more expansion room. Ironically, I may have been the main beneficiary of this unbalance... This should not hide the fact that the new Agartha can now be very competitive at early expansion, and I quickly secured key choke points, effectively turning luck into actual competitive advantage.

My position was probably marginally better than most nations', and not really better than Bandar Log's. At this point, R'lyeh made the mistake to NOT expand in some territories I had kept within my choke points, but accessible by sea. Instead, they attacked Ulm with the consequences we know. Dear, beloved Ulm! While they were loosing their Wyrm, I could quietly finish my expansion undisturbed.

2. Early-mid game: the God of Primordial Waters goes wet

I quickly assessed that water and R'lyeh were to be my main area of early expansion:
- the nation was too weak
- I am good underwater
- R'lyeh's overall aggressive behavior meant that they were unlikely to find allies;
- conquering the seas would position me in a very interesting strategic position, as unilaterally threatening everyone while no other amphibious nation could really hope to attack me there.
- Plus it was thematic for my Pretender!

R'lyeh helped me a lot by lunching ill-planned attacks which allowed me destroying his assets before I started the real attack, and having a legitimate casus belli. When I lunched the real attack, R'lyeh was already desperate and turned AI almost at the time I ordered Pale Ones to dive: war was won before the first decisive battle.

3. Mid game: cold war with Bandar Log

By then, Bandar Log was the clear contender. OK I dominated, but it appeared as a hard nut to crack nonetheless. He had won the race to most artifacts (for a turn or so, I even forged 3 of them which came in his possession because he forged them the same turn!), he had 2 of the 4 gem gen globals, and I was afraid at his astral power. Now every turn I would ask myself: how to defeat him? Shall I attack now, or not? Attacking a lesser contender, at this point, was out of question as Bandar Log would have immediately allied with him against me, and i wanted, if possible, to fight against BL alone.

Then the miracle happened: BL's pretender devoured by a horror, while he was the global caster! With this small micro-management mistake, I think the game balance drifted very strongly and very suddenly. I assessed the cost to be huge: lost of a useful artifact I could steal, of a rainbow pretender for whom scales had been butchered, and of 2 major globals! Considering the cost of all artifacts forged and of the globals, I estimated that at this point, BL could not have developed many more war assets. Artifacts are good but none is like an atomic bomb, they need to be deployed in a full integrated force. OK the globals were immediately cast again, as in fear of the plots being taken (I was ready to cast the minor astral one next turn to take a slot). That was impressive, but I estimated the cost to be huge, certainly paid by alchemizing gems carefully saved for other purposes. While I was summoning/forging at full speed... So the time for attack had come.

4. "Late game": a decisive war without decisive battle

Again, a war won without any battle. I designed an attack plan from 5 directions, fully using my access to the seas and teleporting abilities of Agartha and water magic. At the same time, I kept my most special weapons such as my Golem-Prophet and another customized one to counter a counter-offensive, especially for fort defense. But these weapons will never been used. I think BL, at this point, from what I see now, was already overwhelmed by the more "conventional" armies I could throw at him offensively. Bad luck with a stale and he lost all hope.

5. Conclusion: "A victory without glory?"

This game is a strange one for me! The first clear, indisputable victory (the one with MA Ermor is more like "we are all tired and he somehow dominates", this one being "nobody can defeat him")... won without any major engagement, without any major victory in the battle field! Never was a large Agarthan army fully deployed against a large opponent. It seems like all resistance melted away the minute Pale One legions started marching to war. Satisfactory as in any victory being satisfactory, but a bit frustrating also... I wish at least one epic battle had been fought with Bandar Log, somehow legitimizing my victory in the battle field... Also I could not test the more special weapons I prepared for dire situations. It never happened in this game that a mage followed my script to use a gem, due to the lack of opposition! Victory with 0 gem used in battle... :-0

It seems like I played on the strategic level only, as in a Risk/Diplomacy game, as if battles did not matter to determine victory in D3. I guess I will play MA Agartha once more soon to challenge this approach again, hoping to fight many bloody disputed battles!

Finally, thanks to all fellow players for the nice game, good spirit and enjoyable role-playing :-) At least I enjoyed looking at others' epic battles! ;)

earcaraxe

December 29th, 2011, 07:18 AM

I agree, the turning point was that eater of gods appearing and eating my pretender with hammer of forge lord, ring of wizardry, tome of high power, mother oak, eternal pyre. that was about 250 gems lost :D

lesson learned :)

Numahr

December 29th, 2011, 07:40 AM

Waou I did not know Szivi had all these artifacts in his hands at the time he got devoured!

The micro management mistake put aside, remains the question of the delicate balance between long term investments (ring of wizardry...) versus immediate power. When a secondary power like you invests so much in powerful artifacts, then temptation is great for the competitor with not so many Rings but many more Swords to intervene without waiting... From that point of view, can't we say the Horror was indeed a manifestation of Justice avenging you for your Greed of arcane power, not taking into consideration more mundane and military power? ;)

OK this is a bit teleological I recognize... still...

earcaraxe

December 29th, 2011, 07:57 AM

U may be right :)

however i was convinced i can quickly build up an army full of SC's in case of need, mindhunting anyone who dares to enter my empire. with the chalice the danger of feebleminding was nonexistent. however i lagged behind in terms of sieging power, and i seriously lacked earth and astral income, i had to alchemize like mad.

Hylobius

December 29th, 2011, 10:52 AM

Out of character: I was hoping to eventually defeat Ulm and then with Agartha fully engaged against Bandar I would attack Agartha. I figured that Agartha would win, but not without a good fight. With all diplomacy limited to this forum I could not reassure Bandar that I would help when I could, or Agartha would have quickly crushed me. Of course this is all academic as I was unable to deal with Ulm. I thought that my large research advantage would eventually win the war, but everytime I developed a new war-ending advancement Ulm pulled another rabbit out of the hat. Props to Ossa, I learned a lot this game.

Numahr

December 29th, 2011, 11:29 AM

Thx for feedback Hylobius.

I think you were clear enough with BL. You had once called "what are the monkeys doing, let hem awake from their long sleep" or something like that, which convinced me that you were not to be trusted. I guess BL also got the message. It was also strategically logical that if you ever conquered Ulm, you would ally with the N°2 against the n°1, the only way to a possible victory - at least you had the research, a key success factor. That is another reason why:
1. I wanted to protect/keep Ulm as a kind of Western protectorate, hence my threat at you at some point
2. after Szivi's accident, I wanted to attack Bandar before you may take the lead on your war (and before Machaka recovers from the seemingly costly war against Ermor and finishes its infrastructure development plan). So I stroke at Bandar without further delay.

Although, before Szivi's accident, I had designed an alternative attack plan on BL. I thought, if one and only one minor nation joins him against me (not easy to achieve from a diplo point of view), so in practice either you or Machaka, then I can play defensive against Bandar with maybe 30-40% of my forces defending castles and counter-raiding and -hopefully- rush the minor nation with like 60-70% of my forces. I believed this is what I needed to conquer you or Machaka, although the challenges were very different - lack of research of Machaka made it more tempting, more lands easier to grab. Bandar would be stuck with the alliance and would not conquer much of the crumbling minor nation, maybe only at the very end when all hope had faded. The resulting strategic situation, assuming quick and clean victory against the minor nation, would have me being so much more powerful than Bandar that the war would be virtually won, without the need to attack Bandar's territory. So before Szivi's accident I was hoping BL would find one, and only one ally to give me an easy prey. When you asked him to awake against me, I was actually hoping he would accept.

Ulm: in this perspective, attacking Ulm made no sense as there was no spoil important enough to increase my power (4 provinces), Ulm was much more useful as an independent nation and skillful general defending his honor with no hope of victory but keeping you in check. Plus I kind of developed a genuine sympathy for them and attacking them would have felt like a betrayal... Pretender Gods have feelings too :-)