Primordial Cake - [Game In Progress]

[mattyburn7]

I concur. I'll play any game with rev2 or Shunwick for the added value of the posts!

[revenant2]

I concur. I'll play any game with rev2 or Shunwick for the added value of the posts!

I've lost my mojo a bit in this game, although I think that's because I'm still recovering from BSOD :)

[AreaOfEffect]

Hey everyone. Just checking up on things. See how everyone is doing.

Me, I'm fine. Never been better. Just finished rounding up some filthy brigands and trouble makers. Yup, pretty sure I got all of them this time. Had quite a few. About 15 here, 5 there, 16 somewhere else. Its all good though, my task force of judges did a fantastic job and sentenced all 78 of them to death. Took them about an hour, which includes the lunch break.

Did anyone else see that fight for the Forest of Idun. Man, that was a really great battle between Mictlan and C'tis. And to think, even though C'tis brought such a variety of units, mages, and priests, and even though they seemed to have greater numbers, they just weren't a match for those triple blessed jaguar warriors and ozelotl. Massacre actually. Spite the fact that Mictlan's units were starving.

Any word on the Ermor front. Last I knew they were resting on top of the last castle of some nation. Patala I think it was. Strange race of people. Never had a chance I heard. Ermor's become a real nation killer I think. Too bad for them Tien Chi took all their spoils from the conquest of Gath. That must be a lot of gem income for the barbaric tribes who occupy the vast mountain regions.

Mictlan's bless is water 9, fire 9, astral 9. Just saying

[Gargouille]

In the beginning Chelms contact us for make peace. We say yes, we are loyal. Last month Chelms attack us, 4 sneak attacks, and lose 3. With Atlantis, Chelms can win, but Chelms lose his honnor, they are liars.

[shunwick]

Is there anyone not at war with Mictlan?

Despite fighting several wars with his neighbours on widely separate fronts, the Capitalist Warmongering Hyena known as “Bloodpuppets” launched a cowadly sneak attack on the peaceful and respectable cave province of Barra. The minimally defended province was under the command of Comrade Provincial Governor Stene who was slain in a brave attempt to fight off the invading force. The Pythium Leadership is so concerned by this unprovoked aggression that they have raised the Empire Threat Level from “No Worries” to “Slightly Put Out”.

The Voice of Pythium has been able to track down an old acquaintance of the mad “Bloodpuppets”. Speaking from the academy in the city of Cimri, Comrade Research Assistant Aesculapios revealed that he went to school with the insane dictator of Mictlan. “Oh yes,” he said, “I remember Chubby.”

Apparently, the Loopy Dic attended the Cimri High School in his early years where he was known as Stanley Limpthwaite. “Used to pull the legs of a spiders,” explained his former classmate. “Mad a march hare. Some of the other kids began calling him names like scumsucker, dipstick and so on. Eventually they settled on Chubby. Well, you know, for obvious reasons. Children can be so cruel sometimes.”

One of his former teachers at the High School, Comrade Benim, said, “Stanley was such a strange child. Not quite right in the head, you know. Fairly ugly I seem to recall and not very bright. There were a lot of nasty incidents at the time but we could never catch him at it.”

The small probing force that Mictlan sent into Barra province is being invited to withdraw and a strongly worded letter to this effect has already been despatched. Whether such a polite response is enough to sway the insane megalomania of Stanley Limpthwaite is unknown at this time. A more forceful approach may be necessary to deal with this nuisance.

An armed reconnaissance force has been sent from Cimri into the province of Old Man Mountains in an attempt to collect information on the renegade golem mage Antatus. The small recon force contains mainly those troops convalescing from injuries sustained in the Gath Campaign. We wish Comrade General Celarim and his limping and wheezing recon troops well.

The banquet in the Pythium Capital for the Special Forces Group was a great success. Comrade General Eric received grateful thanks for this stunning victory and his winning charm made him many friends at the glittering ball. Missing from the celebrations, however, was Hero of the Peoples Comrade Teacher Ooo Daman who stayed on in the newly acquired province of Bright Woods where he and his band of Comrade Outreach workers established a re-education centre and quickly brought peace and stability to that troubled land.

In exciting news, Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod announced the annexation of the province of Ministra. The new province, free of control from any of the major powers, was completely devoid of any defence and was liberated by the daring exploits of Comrade Ambassador Stanebor. The province is a long way from the Democratic People’s Republic of Pythium and shares a border with both the Noble Empire of Agartha and Mad “Bloodpuppet’s” Insane Realm of Mictlan. Naturally, we wish the inhabitants of Ministra every success and welcome them into the enlightened and peaceful family of Democratic Republics.

Finally, we understand that the orgies continue in the Cimri. “Orgies, orgies everywhere. It’s disgusting and immoral,” said one outraged resident, “and not an invite in sight.”

The Peoples of Pythium await further news.

[AreaOfEffect]

In the beginning Chelms contact us for make peace. We say yes, we are loyal. Last month Chelms attack us, 4 sneak attacks, and lose 3. With Atlantis, Chelms can win, but Chelms lose his honnor, they are liars.

Actually, I sent you a message via in-game where I broke my NAP. I waited a full four turns. The message was sent on turn 34. I attacked you on turn 38. Plenty of time by anyone's standard of a 3 round NAP. Check your turns and you will see I am correct.

[shunwick]

That must be a lot of gem income for the barbaric tribes who occupy the vast mountain regions.

You would think wouldn't you? Month after month my site searches say "no new magic sites found in ... "

Bloody mountains. No gold, no gems, no supplies, no armies, no PD, no mages, no reasearch, no idea and no hope. How the hell have I lasted four years on this?

[mattyburn7]

Bogarus kindly asks the Lizards of C'tis to stop harassing our Scout Troops who are peacefully hiking.

[AreaOfEffect]

Until someone tells me otherwise, I'm giving the credit for Patala's demise to Ermor. Good luck in other games there ghoul. Thank you for playing with us.

[shunwick]

AreaOfEffect,

Patala got double tagged by the Ermorian-Agarthan Alliance though finally killed off by Ermor. It will be interesting to see who Patala names as his main nemisis.

Best wishes,
Steve

[YellowCactus]

Mictlan Priests are not know for their superior diplomatic skills. One village elder was quoted saying "The Kingdom is most peaceful when the Jaguar Warriors are campaigning elsewhere."

Most of the Mictlan empire is learning to enjoy cold weather, and speaking Caelum Tongue in order to please our bird-winged overlords. In the North, we are clearing out a big of living space from the C'tis swamps. Around our Capitol.....Arco has decided to trample around with some elephants. They are most unwelcome!

[Unoptimized]

Grind's Log,

I cannot believe that the ruse is working. We all knew that Nero was blind…but this defies all reason.

For a transcendent genius, Nero is mind-bogglingly clueless.

I pen this as we have finally taken the empire of Patala and their fierce serpent-gods out from their last stronghold. While I have been working diligently for the Silent Empire, Nero is in the library which has been his home for over 3 years. We have managed to convince him that his great experiments have failed, and that the people of Ermor still breath. This was accomplished by staffing his library with the last 10 noisy breathers in Ermor.

They appropriately cower in fear as Nero cries out that “THEY WILL RUE THE DAY” or “THEY THOUGHT ME MAD!” in all caps. They talk about how alive they are, and how much they like food made from wherever food comes from. Then he gets back to his research, which his librarians proceed to steal. That this system has worked for so long…I just…I just don’t understand.

What I DO understand is that the mountain barbarians of the north march into the Silent Empire. With our southern campaign concluded, our legions march to meet them.

[shunwick]

This is the Voice of Pythium

In a dramatic speech outside the Palace of Heroes, Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod pledged wholehearted support for the Enlightened Empire of Mictlan. The Democratic People’s Republic of Pythium, as you know, has been a staunch supporter of the benevolent and kind Bloodpuppets. “Under Bloodpuppets’ sure and steady leadership, Mictlan has become a nation to admire and emulate,” he said.

The Voice of Pythium would also add that the foul and vicious rumours surrounding the Mictlan Leadership are nothing more than scurrilous tittle-tattle and condemns anyone guilty of peddling such trash.

In further news, it seems that the refit for Pytium’s Special Forces Group under the overall leadership of Comrade General Eric has been completed in superfast time. Speculation is rife that the days of Antatus, the renegade Golem Mage are numbered.

Finally, congratulations are in order to the armed reconnaissance group who performed sterling work in the last mission. Sadly, nine comrade soldiers of the recon team lost their lives in the operation. A memorial is being prepared in the great city of Cimri to mark the fallen heroes.

The Peoples of Pythium await further news.

[HoleyDooley]

This is like read a novel, great stuff guys.

[shunwick]

Oh bum...

[YellowCactus]

Did your computer die again? Just kick it. Works for Han Solo....

[shunwick]

No, computer is fine. Although it is doing some strange things. For example, I cannot reach this forum unless I open a new tab on my browser.

[shunwick]

This is the Voice of Pythium

A sense of confusion is sweeping through the Democratic People’s Republic of Pythium.

News has filtered through of an immense victory for the Special Projects Group in the newly acquired province of Old Man Mountains against the renegade Golem Mage Antatus and his army of stone thingies and flying stone thingies. Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod devised and personally supervised the high-risk operation in conjunction with Comrade General Eric and his special troops.

Despite the overwhelming victory, however, there are rumours that not everything is right with the Pythium Leadership and Comrade General Eric seemed to criticise the use of his Special Projects Group as a suicide diversion technique. It is understood that the special troops performed well above expectations against such difficult opponents but they were forced to fight to the last ... er ... man. The total loss of such an important legion as the Special Projects Group, even in circumstances as difficult and as ultimately successful as this, has shaken the Leadership and has led several Central Committee members to question the soundness of the General Secretary’s plan.

It is not the first time that Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod has found himself under severe pressure for the control of the Leadership. Both Comrade Paghat and former jailbird and previously-owned donkey salesperson Comrade God Lucinus IV were present at the battle of Old Man Mountains but refused to comment on the outcome of the battle. In light of the momentous victory, such silence can only be seen as ominous.

Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod only added to the confusion with an impromptu speech on the OMM battlefields.

“For many months the Democratic and Peace-Loving People’s Republic of Pythium has been under constant attack from magics emanating from outside. Commanders throughout the length and breadth of the republic have been attacked and killed in the most cowardly way I can think of,” he said. “This is why I am wearing this specially made hat of thin metallic foil. It is to protect me from the deadly mind rays of our enemies. It is obvious to me now that those death rays are coming from the Evil Empire of Arcoscephale. After our victorious victory here, where we have been victorious, on this victorious battlefield we shall rise up victoriously and smite the Arcoscephalean Empire victoriously. This is a Declaration of War you rotten scoundrel.”

It was at this point that a Comrade Attendant appeared to whisper in the ear of the Comrade General Secretary.

Undeterred he continued, “We may not have troops in the vicinity or, indeed, any commanders to lead the troops we do not have but we shall have our revenge on the Evil Arcoscephalean filth. It may take a while but our victorious armies on heading your way in a few months if we can recruit some new commanders and probably troops as well. And you can’t get me because I am wearing my hat. So there. Ner, ner, na ner ner!”

Comrade Paghat and Comrade General Eric were seen later conferring over the document that was being waved by Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod during his speech. “Oh sh... bother,” said Comrade Paghat. Comrade General Eric later confirmed that it was a fully legal Declaration of War against Arcoscephale.

So the Democratic and Peace-Loving People’s Republic of Pythium finds itself at war once again.

“Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod is resting comfortably,” said his Comrade Nurse.

Sale of hats made from thin metallic sheets are said to be doing a roaring trade in the streets of Pythium.

The Peoples of Pythium await further news.

[revenant2]

This is the Voice of Pythium

A sense of confusion is sweeping through the Democratic People’s Republic of Pythium.

News has filtered through of an immense victory for the Special Projects Group in the newly acquired province of Old Man Mountains against the renegade Golem Mage Antatus and his army of stone thingies and flying stone thingies. Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod devised and personally supervised the high-risk operation in conjunction with Comrade General Eric and his special troops.

Despite the overwhelming victory, however, there are rumours that not everything is right with the Pythium Leadership and Comrade General Eric seemed to criticise the use of his Special Projects Group as a suicide diversion technique. It is understood that the special troops performed well above expectations against such difficult opponents but they were forced to fight to the last ... er ... man. The total loss of such an important legion as the Special Projects Group, even in circumstances as difficult and as ultimately successful as this, has shaken the Leadership and has led several Central Committee members to question the soundness of the General Secretary’s plan.

It is not the first time that Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod has found himself under severe pressure for the control of the Leadership. Both Comrade Paghat and former jailbird and previously-owned donkey salesperson Comrade God Lucinus IV were present at the battle of Old Man Mountains but refused to comment on the outcome of the battle. In light of the momentous victory, such silence can only be seen as ominous.

Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod only added to the confusion with an impromptu speech on the OMM battlefields.

“For many months the Democratic and Peace-Loving People’s Republic of Pythium has been under constant attack from magics emanating from outside. Commanders throughout the length and breadth of the republic have been attacked and killed in the most cowardly way I can think of,” he said. “This is why I am wearing this specially made hat of thin metallic foil. It is to protect me from the deadly mind rays of our enemies. It is obvious to me now that those death rays are coming from the Evil Empire of Arcoscephale. After our victorious victory here, where we have been victorious, on this victorious battlefield we shall rise up victoriously and smite the Arcoscephalean Empire victoriously. This is a Declaration of War you rotten scoundrel.”

It was at this point that a Comrade Attendant appeared to whisper in the ear of the Comrade General Secretary.

Undeterred he continued, “We may not have troops in the vicinity or, indeed, any commanders to lead the troops we do not have but we shall have our revenge on the Evil Arcoscephalean filth. It may take a while but our victorious armies on heading your way in a few months if we can recruit some new commanders and probably troops as well. And you can’t get me because I am wearing my hat. So there. Ner, ner, na ner ner!”

Comrade Paghat and Comrade General Eric were seen later conferring over the document that was being waved by Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod during his speech. “Oh sh... bother,” said Comrade Paghat. Comrade General Eric later confirmed that it was a fully legal Declaration of War against Arcoscephale.

So the Democratic and Peace-Loving People’s Republic of Pythium finds itself at war once again.

“Comrade General Secretary Vsevolod is resting comfortably,” said his Comrade Nurse.

Sale of hats made from thin metallic sheets are said to be doing a roaring trade in the streets of Pythium.

The Peoples of Pythium await further news.

Look here, Serpent-man -- or whatever it is you ungodly communists worship these days. You can't declare war on us because we already declared war on for assisting our hated enemy, Mictlan, with a cowardly and vicious attack against my homeland.

How could you let Mictlan use your lands to attack us? Have you seen what those savages do to their own territory. Our cows live better than they do.

We were going to make the declaration public knowledge, but all of our scribes have been too busy writing the last wills of our senators and we have yet to discover the secret of the printing press, but it was coming.

Know this: The power of my people is mighty and we have many sorcerers and elephants that will crush you and Mictlan's heads like a pair of rotten, ugly tomatoes. Admittedly, we had some tactical concerns about fielding elephants against your people since they are nearly indistinguishable from your womenfolk, but then we discovered that our elephants aren't quite as hairy and have shorter tusks.

[Gargouille]

Chelms speak here with PM for say peace, and use an other way for make war (me no see your message in the game). Jomon is loyal and proud, we fight up the dead. Fight alone against two, "two old warriors" against a young warrior, why not. We hope kill many enemy, after we can die.

[AreaOfEffect]

Perhaps I sent it on turn 34 and you got it on turn 35. I can be sure that I sent the message though.

[Gargouille]

Here i can use google translator, for speak with me this is better.
Me never see or understand your message, when you attack, i think you are my allied.

[shunwick]

Look here, Serpent-man -- or whatever it is you ungodly communists worship these days. You can't declare war on us because we already declared war on for assisting our hated enemy, Mictlan, with a cowardly and vicious attack against my homeland.

How could you let Mictlan use your lands to attack us? Have you seen what those savages do to their own territory. Our cows live better than they do.

We were going to make the declaration public knowledge, but all of our scribes have been too busy writing the last wills of our senators and we have yet to discover the secret of the printing press, but it was coming.

Know this: The power of my people is mighty and we have many sorcerers and elephants that will crush you and Mictlan's heads like a pair of rotten, ugly tomatoes. Admittedly, we had some tactical concerns about fielding elephants against your people since they are nearly indistinguishable from your womenfolk, but then we discovered that our elephants aren't quite as hairy and have shorter tusks.

The Democratic and Peace-Loving People's Republic of Pythium send Greetings and Felicitations to the imbecile named I am the Walrus.

You are quite correct that you declared war on Pythium before we declared war on you. Your hastliy scribbled note was mis-filed as it was thought be an order for beef chow mein and a double helping of fried seaweed.

So, once again, the Peoples of Pythium are clearly the victims of an unprovoked agression. Twice before this has happened to us. Ask the ghosts of Abysia and Gath whether they profited from such adventure.

And we did not allow the small probing army from Mictlan to pass through our lands. We were invaded and violated by them. Had they asked, however, we would have been more than pleased to allow them to pass and wished them well on their way.

It is no surprise that you have not yet invented the printing press. We were amazed to discover that the sub-human species of Arcoscephale could even read and write. Hitherto, we thought that grunting and pointing was the limit of Arcoscephalean communication.

It also comes as no surprise that your troops have difficulty telling the difference between a woman and an elephant. I hear they have the same problem distinguishing between a woman and a sheep in your own provinces. At least, most of your sheep get nervous when there are Arcoscephalean troops stationed in the vicinity.

Best regards,
Shahr, Assistant General Secreatry, Central Committee

[Gargouille]

Now prophet of Chelms burn in hell, it's good thing.

[revenant2]

Look here, Serpent-man -- or whatever it is you ungodly communists worship these days. You can't declare war on us because we already declared war on for assisting our hated enemy, Mictlan, with a cowardly and vicious attack against my homeland.

How could you let Mictlan use your lands to attack us? Have you seen what those savages do to their own territory. Our cows live better than they do.

We were going to make the declaration public knowledge, but all of our scribes have been too busy writing the last wills of our senators and we have yet to discover the secret of the printing press, but it was coming.

Know this: The power of my people is mighty and we have many sorcerers and elephants that will crush you and Mictlan's heads like a pair of rotten, ugly tomatoes. Admittedly, we had some tactical concerns about fielding elephants against your people since they are nearly indistinguishable from your womenfolk, but then we discovered that our elephants aren't quite as hairy and have shorter tusks.

The Democratic and Peace-Loving People's Republic of Pythium send Greetings and Felicitations to the imbecile named I am the Walrus.

You are quite correct that you declared war on Pythium before we declared war on you. Your hastliy scribbled note was mis-filed as it was thought be an order for beef chow mein and a double helping of fried seaweed.

So, once again, the Peoples of Pythium are clearly the victims of an unprovoked agression. Twice before this has happened to us. Ask the ghosts of Abysia and Gath whether they profited from such adventure.

And we did not allow the small probing army from Mictlan to pass through our lands. We were invaded and violated by them. Had they asked, however, we would have been more than pleased to allow them to pass and wished them well on their way.

It is no surprise that you have not yet invented the printing press. We were amazed to discover that the sub-human species of Arcoscephale could even read and write. Hitherto, we thought that grunting and pointing was the limit of Arcoscephalean communication.

It also comes as no surprise that your troops have difficulty telling the difference between a woman and an elephant. I hear they have the same problem distinguishing between a woman and a sheep in your own provinces. At least, most of your sheep get nervous when there are Arcoscephalean troops stationed in the vicinity.

Best regards,
Shahr, Assistant General Secreatry, Central Committee

The only thing unprovoked are the unbelievable, heinous lies that roll off your forked tongue faster than Pythium girl headed to a pie-eating contest.

How convenient that your "peace-loving" nation happened to join Mictlan on simultaneous strikes into my territory. Well the jokes on you two clowns because you've grossly underestimated the will and resolve of my people. So great are my people's minds that we can explode the weak brains of our enemies from afar -- which a certain savage race of people (I'll withhold names but they have an insane bless and have bones through their noses) recently discovered.

We have a saying in Arco, "It's hard to bless someone without a head." A certain eloquence is lost in translation, but take my word for it that it's very clever and amusing.

And let me address a slanderous remark you made about my troops. We admit there have been a few isolated incidents with some of the men and local fauna, but that's not a reflection of the character of my people and is a result of a few lonely soldiers, who have been out in the field too long defending my nation from you war-mongers.

[shunwick]

Look here, Serpent-man -- or whatever it is you ungodly communists worship these days. You can't declare war on us because we already declared war on for assisting our hated enemy, Mictlan, with a cowardly and vicious attack against my homeland.

How could you let Mictlan use your lands to attack us? Have you seen what those savages do to their own territory. Our cows live better than they do.

We were going to make the declaration public knowledge, but all of our scribes have been too busy writing the last wills of our senators and we have yet to discover the secret of the printing press, but it was coming.

Know this: The power of my people is mighty and we have many sorcerers and elephants that will crush you and Mictlan's heads like a pair of rotten, ugly tomatoes. Admittedly, we had some tactical concerns about fielding elephants against your people since they are nearly indistinguishable from your womenfolk, but then we discovered that our elephants aren't quite as hairy and have shorter tusks.

The Democratic and Peace-Loving People's Republic of Pythium send Greetings and Felicitations to the imbecile named I am the Walrus.

You are quite correct that you declared war on Pythium before we declared war on you. Your hastliy scribbled note was mis-filed as it was thought be an order for beef chow mein and a double helping of fried seaweed.

So, once again, the Peoples of Pythium are clearly the victims of an unprovoked agression. Twice before this has happened to us. Ask the ghosts of Abysia and Gath whether they profited from such adventure.

And we did not allow the small probing army from Mictlan to pass through our lands. We were invaded and violated by them. Had they asked, however, we would have been more than pleased to allow them to pass and wished them well on their way.

It is no surprise that you have not yet invented the printing press. We were amazed to discover that the sub-human species of Arcoscephale could even read and write. Hitherto, we thought that grunting and pointing was the limit of Arcoscephalean communication.

It also comes as no surprise that your troops have difficulty telling the difference between a woman and an elephant. I hear they have the same problem distinguishing between a woman and a sheep in your own provinces. At least, most of your sheep get nervous when there are Arcoscephalean troops stationed in the vicinity.

Best regards,
Shahr, Assistant General Secreatry, Central Committee

The only thing unprovoked are the unbelievable, heinous lies that roll off your forked tongue faster than Pythium girl headed to a pie-eating contest.

How convenient that your "peace-loving" nation happened to join Mictlan on simultaneous strikes into my territory. Well the jokes on you two clowns because you've grossly underestimated the will and resolve of my people. So great are my people's minds that we can explode the weak brains of our enemies from afar -- which a certain savage race of people (I'll withhold names but they have an insane bless and have bones through their noses) recently discovered.

We have a saying in Arco, "It's hard to bless someone without a head." A certain eloquence is lost in translation, but take my word for it that it's very clever and amusing.

And let me address a slanderous remark you made about my troops. We admit there have been a few isolated incidents with some of the men and local fauna, but that's not a reflection of the character of my people and is a result of a few lonely soldiers, who have been out in the field too long defending my nation from you war-mongers.

The Democratic and Peace-Loving People's Republic of Pythium send Greetings and Felicitations to (sorry, forgot the name).

Whatever.

Best Regards,
Canens, Assistant Third Under-Secretary, Lavatory Cleaning Directorate

[shunwick]

AreaOfEffect,

Can I request a 48 hour extension on turn 43 please.

Best wishes,
Steve

[AreaOfEffect]

AreaOfEffect,

Can I request a 48 hour extension on turn 43 please.

Best wishes,
Steve

Request granted.

[shunwick]

AreaOfEffect,

Somewhat unexpectedly I find myself having to move house - probably towards the end of next week. As you can imagine I find myself in a complete mess. Worse yet, the move will mean that I am going to be without internet access for three of four weeks after the move. I should be able to play turn 44 and possibly turn 45 but after that...

Rather than hold you guys up I am going to withdraw from this game. I will try to find a sub to take over Pythium. If a sub cannot be found I may have to go AI or just stall.

Sorry to leave this game because I have been having a lot of fun. Thank you for arranging it and to my thanks to everyone playing.

Best wishes,
Steve

[Groundworm]

Apologies for the inconvenience, but could I have an additional 6 hour extension?

Thanks!

[mattyburn7]

Going to miss you SHunwick!

[AreaOfEffect]

Apologies for the inconvenience, but could I have an additional 6 hour extension?

Thanks!

Request Granted.

Shunwick, I would hate to see you go. Perhaps you can find a temporary sub. Though any sub would be better then none. If you want, we can demand the new player to entertain us they way you have. I mean, that sounds legit to me and is only fair.

[Unoptimized]

OOC: So, it would seem that commanders will sometimes (as a lark) decide to not cast a critical spell despite having sufficient gems and paths, leaving the entire battle in shambles.

[YellowCactus]

What happened?

[Gargouille]

Me no understand how i lose my pretender? He retreat with two commanders, he have full HP (220) when he leave battlefield, he have a land for retreat, but only the two commanders come back. Atlantis see the fight, can he say what happend?
(this is the end for me).

[danbo]

Strange. Everything is as Jomon says, I confirm. In battle Jomon's pretenders flees almost unharmed. But I also got an afterbattle report which states that I found some items that were on the Jomon's pretender. The only explanation I see is that battleview doesn't reflect what actually happened on the battlefield, such things happened to me several times in other games.

[HoleyDooley]

Yes thats a know bug, thus the battle view is incorrect and the pretender was actually killed in battle, had it happen to me 2 or 3 times and I can assure you I have had my immortal pretender killed because of it when given the strengths of both sides, he should not have.

Only one thing you can do, swear like crazy and suck it up...oooops thats two things.

HD

[danbo]

As far as I remember we came to a conclusion that under the hood game mechanics works correctly - one side wins, another loses. But due to some annoying bug battle movie might be wrong and show another outcome. Following that logic my troops somehow managed to kill the jomonese leader. I still wonder how it could be possible.

Jomon, did you order your troops to retreat after couple of earthquakes? Or your orders were to continue fighting?

[AreaOfEffect]

Because you choose to cast rather then fight with your god, I do actually see the potential for his death. The only way Atlantis was going to punch through his heavy armor and overcome his regeneration was through fatigue in my opinion. If your troops didn't retreat when they did and your god decided to cast just one more spell, then he could have been easily swarmed by undead and killed. In my battle view Atlantis was creeping a bit too close to your god when he finally woke up and retreated.

[shunwick]

AreaOfEffect,

Sorry but I don't have time to play turn 45 properly and there has been no interest in my search for a sub. I regret it very much but I must go AI.

I hope to see you all on another Dominions battlefield in the future and prove beyond any doubt that the Democratic and Peace-Loiving People's Republic of Pythium is destined to rule any world you care to mention.

All the best,
Steve, Overseer, Central Committee

[Gargouille]

I find it hard to understand how he died. But me bad play, no good placement in battlefield, no good mouvement on the map, no clear strategy for the long time (only for next turns). But i learn many things in this game, i'm happy. You (Chelms and Atlantis) are realy better strategy as me. Me no good priority for build good stratégie with finess (me bad use and coordination item+spell+leader+troops). I hope be better in the next game. Thank all, sorry for bad english, good end game ( I play the next turns for my allied, but it's the end for kingdom of Jomon ).

[mattyburn7]

Cheers Gargouille, Its been a pleasure having you in the game. Hang in there!! And hope to see you in others. Cheers!

[YellowCactus]

This has been a fine game!

Cheers Gargouille and shunwick.

Cheers everyone else too!

[Jolly Roger]

Gentlemen,

I´ll be on a trip to the beautiful city of Dresden from Thursday to Saturday evening. Gonna have no internet access until Sunday
morning ( GMT +1).

A break for this period would be much appreciated.

Thanks, Klaus

[AreaOfEffect]

News from the Front Lines:

Strange events are occurring. The most talked about is the sudden disappearance of the false god leading the fierce, yet fiscally troubled, nation of Jomon. Some have claimed that he has moved on to another realm, perhaps to once again be by the side of the vanished Pantokrator. Others point to a more sinister plot. The would-be god was last seen at the battle for Jomon proper, where the armies of Atlantis routed the assaulting forces. Soldiers from the battle say that their was an air of deception that morning. Regardless of what happened, all agree that the loss of their idol has sent the armies of Jomon on a rampage.

Lord Gumfry Aethelwulf, a local magistrate of the prosperous nation of Man gave this official statement, "The nation of Man has worked along side the armies of Jomon in the past, dividing our forces to quell revolts and bring order to Jomon's impoverish lands. Though our two armies have skirmished several times over the issue of human rights, we had always held hope that Jomon would do what was best for its people. Yet now, with dictatorial generals leading the armies of Jomon, we have been forced to send more persuasive ambassadors."

According to our reports, the bureaucracy of Man's government has approved the use of arcana against the rouge elements of the Jomon. General Frank Edmund said this in reply to our questions, "We have rarely, if ever, fielded the use of arcane talents in the field of war. I would say we have only field one, at best two, untrained sages. But their presence was merely to facilitate the needs of our more... gifted soldiers. The leaders have issued me orders saying that I can employ four tier 2 magisters and one tier 6 magister for special operations."

Ensign Steve Wilson Offa, who was at the most recent engagement, had this to say, "The mother****er came out of the ****en sky! The clouds got all dark and ****, and we took those *****es down! **** just got real!."

Meanwhile, reports indicate that the borders of the Axis of Frost have been shifting. Could this be a sign that the great alliance has fallen? Are these two nations at war, or are they peacefully trading provinces for a more sinister plot? Who can tell?

[AreaOfEffect]

Gentlemen,

I´ll be on a trip to the beautiful city of Dresden from Thursday to Saturday evening. Gonna have no internet access until Sunday
morning ( GMT +1).

A break for this period would be much appreciated.

Thanks, Klaus

Seen your message a while ago. Just figured I confirm your need to a delay come turn 47.

Updated main page with the status of Pythium.

[AreaOfEffect]

Some people seem to be under the impression that I'm delaying this turn until Sunday. This is not the case. Jolly Roger, who is playing Argatha, has already submitted a turn for 46. I will delay turn 47 until Sunday for this reason.

Now since three player haven't submitted turns yet, and since they have only an hour left, I will assume thye did not understand this clearly and give them an extension.

Hosting postponed for 8 hours. Now for a nap.

[AreaOfEffect]

Forgot to delay this turn for Jolly Roger. All fixed. People can ignore any 12 hour warnings you may have gotten from the llamaserver.

48 hour postponement.

[dark7element]

I'm afraid I staled last turn. Sorry about that; just couldn't find the time for it, and didn't think to ask for an extension. It probably doesn't matter, though: Caelum is going to crush me within a few turns. The rest of you had better start thinking about your own defense, because Caelum has literally HUNDREDS of mages traveling around in packs of 40+. Once he's done with me and Mictlan, the rest of you are going to be next.

[YellowCactus]

+1

:) It's been fun!

[AreaOfEffect]

Interesting. Nothing in my last turn went as I had scripted it. Defenders were in the wrong positions. I had a mage with an air gem casting spells when he was to be holding. I have commanders, who were bread and butter, attacking head on when they were set to fire their ranged attacks.

Some of these commanders were scripts from previous fights where I was have no problems at all. I'm quite honestly upset about the outcome.

A very odd turn and I lost dearly for it. I don't remember Dominions being this buggy.

[YellowCactus]

I've enjoyed this game. For the past 3 months, I've revisited Dominions 3. My time was spent playing Dominions 2 profusely 2004+. When the new game came out, I played a couple games and put it on the shelf.

Anyway, I've played the past few months. This game was my first Dominions in about 6 years. It was good. I did notice that there have been 3 versions of CMB out in 3 months. I am not a modder, though I do value the time those guys invest in our game. Perhaps it's time to stop modding, and get feedback on bugs before refining the game any more.

[HoleyDooley]

I'm afraid I staled last turn. Sorry about that; just couldn't find the time for it, and didn't think to ask for an extension. It probably doesn't matter, though: Caelum is going to crush me within a few turns. The rest of you had better start thinking about your own defense, because Caelum has literally HUNDREDS of mages traveling around in packs of 40+. Once he's done with me and Mictlan, the rest of you are going to be next.

Lies and more lies!

They are not mages but the peace loving monks spreading the word of peace and harmony in the world.:)

[Groundworm]

May I have a 12 hour extension on the current turn? Thanks!

[AreaOfEffect]

I'm battling a great disinterest to keep on playing at the moment. It should pass. I'm requesting a delay of 24 hours for myself.

[YellowCactus]

What's got you down AoE?

[AreaOfEffect]

A couple of misunderstood orders from a very important battle. I explained it further up in the thread.

[Unoptimized]

So yea, dusk elders hate casting darkness. It makes it difficult to see their super-handsome profiles.

[HoleyDooley]

So yea, dusk elders hate casting darkness. It makes it difficult to see their super-handsome profiles.

Mate I am playing LA Agartha in a game and I have tried numerous times to cast the friggin Darkness spell in many a battle, fully equipped with level and gems to do so.....nadda.

Not sure why my mage never did, very big batters as well, thus I am very leery of playing nations who require Darkness to survive long term.

HD

[AreaOfEffect]

Storm is working just fine... when you cast it from a staff of storms. Haven't tried otherwise.

[revenant2]

C'tis/googly1 has staled three times in a row. If he's not in a hopeless position, we should look for a sub.

[YellowCactus]

His position is even worse than mine....

[HoleyDooley]

Yellow, I have told you a zillion times, STOP EXAGGERATING!!!!!!!:)

No one can be in a more desperate situation than you are...:D

Good to see someone fighting to the death instead of staling or going AI.:up:

[AreaOfEffect]

Interesting. I hadn't looked at the stale data the last three turns. Three turns in a row for a crumbling nation would be enough reason for me to set them to AI. I'll see if I can get someone to do that for us.

[Groundworm]

I'm going to be out of town, and likely with limited to no computer access, until Tuesday. I've submitted this turn, but would request an extension on the next turn until then. Thanks!

[AreaOfEffect]

I'm going to be out of town, and likely with limited to no computer access, until Tuesday. I've submitted this turn, but would request an extension on the next turn until then. Thanks!

48 hour extension. All taken care of.

[mattyburn7]

Can you delay 48 hours please. No power from hurricane.

[AreaOfEffect]

Can you delay 48 hours please. No power from hurricane.

Delayed the turn but forgot to post that I had done so. Here's your notice.

[AreaOfEffect]

Apparently Caelum announced that the great and powerful chalice had been stolen from him with a wish spell. Isn't that interesting. The claim has also been made that it must have been Arco or Tein Chi. I think that's selling a lot of other nation short in my opinion. Honestly I don't think the feat to cast such a spell is unreasonable at this stage of the game.

I personally didn't cast wish in order to get the chalice. That said, does someone want to take credit so that we can be in awe of your magical prowess?

[HoleyDooley]

It wasn't Arco, as he mentioned to me, he has healers...it may have been you (Man) as you do have astral, but it was most likely TC.

Still, being able to cast Lvl 9 astral spells and throw in 100 gems is pretty nice. The only other person I feel who could have done it was Ermor, but I know nothing of his position or strength. Someone close to him may be able to shed some light on the mysterious death dealer!

[AreaOfEffect]

My thoughts also drift to Bogarus. They certainly could manage the research considering the sheer number of mages I can see from my borders. Not to mention the power of their national astral mages is quite strong. For myself, my nationals can at best manage astral 2. That's not very impressive.

[mattyburn7]

Well. You are correct that Bogarus has the research and mages to conduct such a theft, but alas our astral income is not high enough to warrant such an output of gems. Besides we are (mostly) an honourable nation and don't (usually) resort to theft :).

[HoleyDooley]

AOE, I know your national mages couldn't cast it, but you do have the initial income to make it viable with a designed pretender.

I left Bogarus out of the running because my intel tells me its unlikely they have the postion to cast Wish.

[YellowCactus]

My S9F9W9 Pretender is still alive and kicking...

[AreaOfEffect]

Was that a confession Yellow?

[YellowCactus]

Nope, I'm doomed this game. But!!! I could have cast that spell! (Had that been a goal all along)

[HoleyDooley]

Damn, that some Blessing design you have yellow.

No wonder you kicked my butt in the first 3 big fights we had, then I brought along my mages and reversed the results.

As for the culprit (being Chalice thief) I believe it has to be TC as the major contender.

[Groundworm]

My efforts for what feels like the entirety of this game have been dedicated solely at Ermor. Almost every gem, every troop, every item I've forged has gone toward that effort. The only thing I've managed to do this game is kill thousands of zombies, with thousands more to go.

As for stealing the Chalice? My national astral mages are no better than those of Man- assuming I even had the research, I could do it only with great difficulty. But what with holding Gift of Health for so long (before it was overwritten by Caelum) coupled with troops who are perpetually drunk from more Endless Bags of Wine than I can mention, I've been able to hold Ermor at bay without the need for artifacts.

[AreaOfEffect]

I'm establishing a new policy, which is actually an old policy. I've hosted games in the past and for some reason forgot all about this rule and why it so important to announce it ahead of time.

Rule: Any player who stales a total of 3 times in a 5 turn span will be removed from the game. If their position is good, I will attempt to find a replacement. If not, I will simply find someone to set them to AI.

That said, C'tis has qualified for this rule for some time now. I will now take action.

[AreaOfEffect]

Before making my last announcement I sent a message to some of our fallen players to see if they would be willing to set C'tis to AI. Ashix responded to the call quite quickly. Unfortunately, googly1 set a password for his pretender, which means nobody can do anything with his turns. Now I must resort to asking llamabeast to correct this issue for me.

Do not set passwords for your pretenders in the future.

[YellowCactus]

Googly is playing in your other game AoE. Have you asked him for the password?

[AreaOfEffect]

Googly is playing in your other game AoE. Have you asked him for the password?

He doesn't have private messaging or an email active.

[Unoptimized]

Thank you for the kind words groundworm. We had some pretty epic battles :). Though for the record, I think you go way too heavy on the detergent with your "cleansing waters".

NEVER GIVE UP, NEVER SURRENDER! CAST LEPROSY EVERY TURN!

[AreaOfEffect]

llamabeast has gotten back to me and there is no way to remove C'tis at this moment. The only solution to removing him is to eliminate his nation in-game.

Until that happens I simply be on the look out for when all other players have submitted their turns. If ever I see this, I will force host the game. Good luck.

[Sluagh]

googly1, if you're around, we need you to send the password for Mictlan in Middle Age Crisis to Smeghead, our sub. You seem to have PMs disabled.

[dark7element]

Have been without internet for over a day, sending this from my phone. Request 12 hr extension please.

[AreaOfEffect]

Have been without internet for over a day, sending this from my phone. Request 12 hr extension please.

Granted. 12 hour extension.

[revenant2]

I Am the Walrus has made one of his "never wrong" predictions about the looming end game: There won't be any major wars for the next hundred turns as the nations of the world put aside their petty differences to live in idyllic harmony with one another. It will be a time where zombie, man, lagoon creature, and Hawkmen (Flash - a-ah -- he'll save everyone of us) will join hand to claw to rotting fist in mutual solidarity and peace.

Yes siree! There's absolutely no catastrophes, death, betrayals, or indescribable suffering in any of our futures. No need to panic because that's not going to happen.

Feel the love brothers and sisters.

[AreaOfEffect]

"Don't Panic"

[mattyburn7]

Rev: We propose then that Bogarus become the great banking capital of this world. We can populate all of our provinces with smirgals and put them on patrol. They will guard your precious possessions. We encourage all nations to deposit ALL of your gold and ALL of your gems and most importantly ALL of those blood virgins in our banks in our territories. We promise absolutely, positively to hand it all over when you ask...really we will. Absolutely.

[HoleyDooley]

Damn, not only has TC stolen my golden beer mug, he overwrote my global...the nerve of the guy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This means we need to buy a new beer mug and break it in.

[Groundworm]

I like this noble future we work towards in mutual solidarity, with the Blood Bank of Bogarus looming over all. I like the way I Am The Walrus thinks.

Sorry, HD. Killing zombies is thirsty work, and your mug makes some awesome beer. It's so good, even our honored ancestors are enjoying it!

[AreaOfEffect]

Dark7Element, playing Utgard, has staled 3 times in the last 5 turns. I must now either find a sub or set them to AI.

[HoleyDooley]

I think its best NOT to set him to AI. He has 2 provinces.....in reality only 1, his capital, and he is a real pain in trying to remove from there given his mages and vamps.

If he goes AI, they will most likely rush out and die, and make my conquest all the easier.

[AreaOfEffect]

Sorry for my stales. I've been around but events have gotten in my way the very day I was going to submit my turns. The first was a classic American holiday and the second was the tragic hospitalization of a family member.

[YellowCactus]

Hope things get better and they get OUT of the hospital ASAP!

[AreaOfEffect]

Hope things get better and they get OUT of the hospital ASAP!

Sorry to get you down, but there is little hope of that. The family member is dying, that fact can't be questioned.

[Groundworm]

I'm terribly, terribly sorry to hear that, AoE. I hope you and your family had/have time to prepare as best you can, and that your loved one has a quiet and painless death. Best wishes.

[AreaOfEffect]

I've updated the original post to show that Jomon is defeated and handed the dagger over to Atlantis because they did most of the heavy lifting from my perspective.

[revenant2]

Can we add 24-hours to the next 2-3 turns? Things are getting rather interesting, and I need time to retool my vast and terrible army to fight a certain nation, who will go unnamed but whose race of lice-ridden, winged donkeys have become quite a nuisance and need to be put down before they become a menace.

[HoleyDooley]

I resemble that remark!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[AreaOfEffect]

The current turn is delayed by 24 hours. Good luck to all in the coming conflict.

[AreaOfEffect]

Can someone more in the know provide me with information on Utgards position in this game? Hopefully I can get a replacement provided their stance is still good.

[YellowCactus]

It would seem they have one fort that'sunder siege and around 100 troops defending...That's it. Probably the capital.

[HoleyDooley]

Utgard has 1 province, his capital and his pretender died 2 turns ago. He still has some nasty troops in his capital.

I go to war against Arco this turn and am already fighting TC.

Thus I am just containing him for the present. Hoping for a DOM kill at some stage I guess.

I am the one surrounding him with my 73 provinces and all that goes along with that. His 1 province against my 73 suggests that his stance is not good.

[YellowCactus]

And the dagger goes to......

[AreaOfEffect]

And here I thought you guys were going to be allies till the end. Though I had noticed you guys "trading" provinces a long while back. Figured then things between you guys were rocky. Thanks for the info.

[HoleyDooley]

Its been interesting. Going way back I had no set plan to attack anyone, including the "screaming Yomi"...just waiting to see what happened.

Then Yellow (Mictlan) invaded a province belonging to Utgard so I attacked Yellow as Utgard was already involved in fighting Yomi. However it seems Yellow and utgard were partners just trading provinces.

So after 2 or 3 battle losses against Yellows blessed troops i came to the next party with a ton on mages and beat Yellow back. Then Utgard gave notice on our NAP and we have been fighting it out for some time.

I did assault his castle some time back, but he beat me. Thus I have left it, though he is far weaker now than that first attempt.

[revenant2]

Caelum, you're an honorless flying monkey. Our NAP was supposed to end on turn 70, not 71.

We knew your people were a cowardly, diabolical lot, but apparently they can't count either.

Know this: I Am the Walrus foresaw your evil treachery over fifty turns ago, so you're "surprise" attack was no surprise at all but rather an elaborate intelligence gathering mission orchestrated by us, but in reverse. We know. The minds of mere bird-brains can't comprehend the vast and unstoppable forces they have unwittingly unleashed against themselves -- although we can sense your fear.

[revenant2]

Caelum, you're an honorless flying monkey. Our NAP was supposed to end on turn 70, not 71.

We knew your people were a cowardly, diabolical lot, but apparently they can't count either.

Know this: I Am the Walrus foresaw your evil treachery over fifty turns ago, so you're "surprise" attack was no surprise at all but rather an elaborate intelligence gathering mission orchestrated by us, but in reverse. We know. The minds of mere bird-brains can't comprehend the vast and unstoppable forces they have unwittingly unleashed against themselves -- although we can sense your fear.

Make that turn 71 not turn 70.

Anyway, prepare to face my wrath!

[HoleyDooley]

My appologies...I fully believed that orders could be given on turn 69 and hostilities on turn 70...as per my post above stating that war was beginning next turn.

[HoleyDooley]

This is your PM message to me, stating that war begins on turn 70.

It was sent during turn 67, thus 67, 68 and 69 is 3 turns notice and fighting to begin on turn 70.

Our good friends in T'ien Chi have informed us of your merciless aerial invasion against their peace-loving citizens and plan to put them under the yoke of your fascist regime. We know that if we sit idly by that we'll be next on your ruthless plans of subjugation, so it's with a heavy heart that we give you notice of the termination of our non-aggression pact. In three turns (turn 70) our peace-keeping forces will be free to engage your marauders.

[revenant2]

My appologies...I fully believed that orders could be given on turn 69 and hostilities on turn 70...as per my post above stating that war was beginning next turn.

No need to apologize. I just felt like ranting and though it would be fun RP :) As far as I'm concerned anyone who breaks a NAP, i.e., me, are entitled to getting their teeth kicked in before the deadline -- especially in the late game.

[revenant2]

This is your PM message to me, stating that war begins on turn 70.

It was sent during turn 67, thus 67, 68 and 69 is 3 turns notice and fighting to begin on turn 70.

Our good friends in T'ien Chi have informed us of your merciless aerial invasion against their peace-loving citizens and plan to put them under the yoke of your fascist regime. We know that if we sit idly by that we'll be next on your ruthless plans of subjugation, so it's with a heavy heart that we give you notice of the termination of our non-aggression pact. In three turns (turn 70) our peace-keeping forces will be free to engage your marauders.

If it's turn 67, then you I would think we would send attacks on 70 to hit on 71

This is how I think it would look:

NAP-0 (no agreement) attacks are sent immediately on turn 67 to hit on 68
NAP-1 (1-turn notice) attacks are sent on turn 68 to hit on 69
NAP-2 (2-turn notice) attacks are sent on turn 69 to hit on 70
NAP-3 (3-turn notice) attacks are sent on turn 70 to hit on 71

As I mentioned before, I'm totally cool with this since I think it was stated in the beginning that NAPs are not binding, and I think it's reasonable to hit the NAP breaker (everyone has different views on NAPs but I think breaking a NAP is an inherently hostile action). Also, my message wasn't real specific so I can see how you would think we would go on turn 70.

Anyway, you didn't do very much damage to me this turn -- and now I know what kind of forces I'll be fighting against. Muahahahah.

[revenant2]

I don't need a 24-hour extension anymore.

[HoleyDooley]

Hi Rev, yeah mate, I knew you weren't having a go at me, but more roleplaying.

It was an unfortunate misunderstanding as I do like to keep my agreements.

War has BEGUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[HoleyDooley]

Very sad to see AoE break his NAP with me...means he doesn't get one with me again, which obviously doesn't concern him too much. Interest of to those of you who have a NAP with him in this or another game though.

Current state of play.

provinces gold gems army

Man 29 2634 32 1150
TC 58 4717 117 3062
Arco 68 6739 144 4371

155 14,070 293 8583

Caleum 63 7,040 177 6357
Bogarus 14 1,303 25 703
Agartha 7 636 11 788

84 8,979 213 7,848

Given Arcos, (and no doubt TC's) master enslave, I lost 300 troops and 20 commander, with 185 defecting to Acros side, its an uphill (substitute - forgone conclusion) battle for the lower team. I don't get to late games much and would like to try some things to battle Master Enslave, as i have never encountered it before.

However I can't justify the two hours plus it takes to do my turns given the hopelessness of the situation.

I am more than happy to do quick turns but thats about it. Am happy to be replaced if others would rather see someone spend more time to delay Caleums eventual demise by 5 to 6 tuns.

[HoleyDooley]

My bad...I forgot to add Utgards small contribution to team 1.

[AreaOfEffect]

Very sad to see AoE break his NAP with me...means he doesn't get one with me again, which obviously doesn't concern him too much. Interest of to those of you who have a NAP with him in this or another game though.

Current state of play.

provinces gold gems army

Man 29 2634 32 1150
TC 58 4717 117 3062
Arco 68 6739 144 4371

155 14,070 293 8583

Caleum 63 7,040 177 6357
Bogarus 14 1,303 25 703
Agartha 7 636 11 788

84 8,979 213 7,848

Given Arcos, (and no doubt TC's) master enslave, I lost 300 troops and 20 commander, with 185 defecting to Acros side, its an uphill (substitute - forgone conclusion) battle for the lower team. I don't get to late games much and would like to try some things to battle Master Enslave, as i have never encountered it before.

However I can't justify the two hours plus it takes to do my turns given the hopelessness of the situation.

I am more than happy to do quick turns but thats about it. Am happy to be replaced if others would rather see someone spend more time to delay Caleums eventual demise by 5 to 6 tuns.

According to my records I had sent a request for an NAP to you but never received a reply. It takes two-way communication to make such agreements. If my notes are wrong then please forgive me. I'll review my PMs again I suppose.

[AreaOfEffect]

Very sad to see AoE break his NAP with me...means he doesn't get one with me again, which obviously doesn't concern him too much. Interest of to those of you who have a NAP with him in this or another game though.

Current state of play.

provinces gold gems army

Man 29 2634 32 1150
TC 58 4717 117 3062
Arco 68 6739 144 4371

155 14,070 293 8583

Caleum 63 7,040 177 6357
Bogarus 14 1,303 25 703
Agartha 7 636 11 788

84 8,979 213 7,848

Given Arcos, (and no doubt TC's) master enslave, I lost 300 troops and 20 commander, with 185 defecting to Acros side, its an uphill (substitute - forgone conclusion) battle for the lower team. I don't get to late games much and would like to try some things to battle Master Enslave, as i have never encountered it before.

However I can't justify the two hours plus it takes to do my turns given the hopelessness of the situation.

I am more than happy to do quick turns but thats about it. Am happy to be replaced if others would rather see someone spend more time to delay Caleums eventual demise by 5 to 6 tuns.

Interesting. The web site isn't suppose to be supplying you or anyone else with this information because the graphs are set to off. I'm going to have to message llamabeast about this.

[HoleyDooley]

I can't find it either, but I can't the one with Rev either, but I know I had NAPs with both of you.

I'll accept that you believed you acted in a correct manner.

[AreaOfEffect]

According to my notes I didn't even request an NAP. I only have a note that indicates you might be attacking Jomon (turn 21), and a note about your announcement that the chalice had been stolen (turn 57).

[HoleyDooley]

Yeah, my oldest PMs are well into the game as well, long after I had first contacted you, Rev etc....

I know we had a NAP, but as I already stated above, I accept you acted in the full belief we didn't. Thus I am cool with that.

Can't undo what can't be undone. Fight on.

[revenant2]

Very sad to see AoE break his NAP with me...means he doesn't get one with me again, which obviously doesn't concern him too much. Interest of to those of you who have a NAP with him in this or another game though.

Current state of play.

provinces gold gems army

Man 29 2634 32 1150
TC 58 4717 117 3062
Arco 68 6739 144 4371

155 14,070 293 8583

Caleum 63 7,040 177 6357
Bogarus 14 1,303 25 703
Agartha 7 636 11 788

84 8,979 213 7,848

Given Arcos, (and no doubt TC's) master enslave, I lost 300 troops and 20 commander, with 185 defecting to Acros side, its an uphill (substitute - forgone conclusion) battle for the lower team. I don't get to late games much and would like to try some things to battle Master Enslave, as i have never encountered it before.

However I can't justify the two hours plus it takes to do my turns given the hopelessness of the situation.

I am more than happy to do quick turns but thats about it. Am happy to be replaced if others would rather see someone spend more time to delay Caleums eventual demise by 5 to 6 tuns.

You are far from beaten in this game. You have a load of gem income, a ton of SCs, and a hugely powerful army. Admittedly, you're facing a bit of adversity at the moment, but this game has a long way to go still and is becoming ever more chaotic. If you stick it out and play for the long-term, I think you'll be able to capitolize on some future opportunity pretty easily.

[YellowCactus]

Mmm...

Could be interesting. Depends on if it's fun though.

[HoleyDooley]

Rev....reality check mate. I have played enough of these games to know how this one plays out.

Yes I do have a huge gem income, my opponents have an even bigger income.
Yes I do have a ton of SC's, my opponents have just as many and can outproduce me.
Yes I have a hugely powerful army..my opponents armies are even more hugely powerful.
You forgot to mention i have some nice late game spells...but my opponents have even more powerful spells.

[Admiral_Aorta]

i'm not in this game but HoleyDooley you're being a textbook 'wanker', put some effort into the goddamn game for longer before you quit. thanks

[YellowCactus]

Heheh....Drama!

[YellowCactus]

You know....Dominions is a unique experience. I'm an inconsistant, mid-level player, so don't take my opinion too seriously.

When I start a game, wars happen. In the middle of the game...wars happen. In the end of the game...I know when the wars are fun and when they are just work.

HD simmed the early game of Prime Cupcakes. Then he took out a neighbor. We're at around turn 70 and he doesn't feel confident about the future.

Don't brow beat the man. He's played every turn. Go pick on someone less active!

[AreaOfEffect]

Nobody should be made to feel as though they must commit large amounts of time or have to play to their fullest, especially when the game gets demanding. You may disagree because it skews your opinion of the game balance, but its still a game. We come here to have fun.

HoleyDooley is struggling with the odds being stacked against him, which is actually harder to battle because certain statistics are apparently a known factor. There are multiple armies and combatants coming in from multiple angles and thinking with multiple minds. I'm fighting two other nations at the same time in another game, and though I'm larger then both combined, its very time consuming to hash out a plan that doesn't leave me second guessing my moves five minutes later. Even without the second guessing it takes time. A substantial amount of time in fact.

I don't need my players being hounded about their legitimate concerns, especially by those who have no vested interest in the game.

I'm adding 12 hours to the turn cycle to give our players with vast armies (and vast opposition) more time. Please let me know if 60 hours is not enough or if particular turns need more time.

[AreaOfEffect]

Oh, and before I forget (again). Ashix has said that if there is any nation that needs a sub then they would want to stand in. This way they can learn more from seeing how other people play their nations. Its a good idea, in my opinion, for a new players in general.

That said, they subbed for Utgard a turn or so ago and I failed to announce the changeover. My bad.

[revenant2]

Nobody should be made to feel as though they must commit large amounts of time or have to play to their fullest, especially when the game gets demanding. You may disagree because it skews your opinion of the game balance, but its still a game. We come here to have fun.

HoleyDooley is struggling with the odds being stacked against him, which is actually harder to battle because certain statistics are apparently a known factor. There are multiple armies and combatants coming in from multiple angles and thinking with multiple minds. I'm fighting two other nations at the same time in another game, and though I'm larger then both combined, its very time consuming to hash out a plan that doesn't leave me second guessing my moves five minutes later. Even without the second guessing it takes time. A substantial amount of time in fact.

I don't need my players being hounded about their legitimate concerns, especially by those who have no vested interest in the game.

I'm adding 12 hours to the turn cycle to give our players with vast armies (and vast opposition) more time. Please let me know if 60 hours is not enough or if particular turns need more time.

Thanks for adding more time to the clock; my mind was about ready to explode with all craziness over the past couple of turns.

Can we add another 5-hours to the clock? I can only take my turns in the depths of the night in Pacific time, and this will effectively give me another day to scheme properly.

[AreaOfEffect]

The turn has been postponed by 5 hours as requested by Rev.

[Groundworm]

I agree with what AoE said about the difficulty of committing to the endgame. I'm in another game (Smiting_Season) as Marignon. I'm very big... I don't have the most provinces, but my armies are huge, full of quality troops, and backed by vast numbers of mages. I have control of all 4 globals currently up, including Arcane Nexus. I'm under attack by Gath and Patala, both of whom are also huge, with huge (though largely inferior) armies. It's turn 84. I've managed to take about 2 turns in the last 3 weeks or so because the amount of time it takes to deal with everything going on is tremendous. The same can be said for the mental energy it takes to script that many mages, deal with that many SCs, and counter that many armies. It's also demoralizing because I'm falling slowly to attrition- I just can't protect as many provinces as I have from as many armies as I'm being attacked with.

I really want to be more active in the game, but I understand where HD is coming from- this game is one of the best I've ever played, ever... but at some point the endgame does become more work than fun.

[AreaOfEffect]

Attack Large Monsters. I should have seen that coming.

[Jolly Roger]

I´ll be on vacation until the 22nd. However Agartha is defeated already,
so please continue. I´ve given all orders for the next turns.

Cheers, Klaus

[AreaOfEffect]

Before I forget again. Pythium bit the dust finally. Who did it?

[revenant2]

I think Pythium is still hanging in there, although he's not long for this world.

Any chance I can get a 24-hour extension? I'm out of town this week and won't be back to take a turn until the weekend.

Thanks,

[AreaOfEffect]

24 hour extension granted.

[Groundworm]

I've got a lot going on with holiday time here... my turn is almost done, but I'm going to need another 24 hours. Requesting an extension, please.

[AreaOfEffect]

Groundworm, I just noticed. That was kinda close. Extension granted.

[mattyburn7]

Can you delay 36 hours for Christmas please?

Thanks!

[AreaOfEffect]

Sure. In observance of the holidays there shall be a postponement.

[AreaOfEffect]

I've updated the original post so that Ermor is listed as AI, and Argatha as Defeated. I've had my eye on that region the whole time and I believe Tien Chi would get the credit for Argatha's demise?

As for Ermor, its tough. Ermor was at war with Tien Chi the longest and I know they made great advances in cutting down the early hordes. Yet it was Atlantis who closed the deal with many epic battles, including the back-and-forth conflict for Ermor's capitol.

I'll have to see what Unoptimized thinks.

[Groundworm]

Thank you for the extensions, AoE.

Yes, I was primarily responsible for Agartha's demise (though, in my defense, I was not the initial aggressor). As for Ermor, I'm not really sure who to give credit to. I did fight with him for a long time, but I'm not sure I would have won without the help of Atlantis. They made many major contributions and, as you said, were ultimately responsible for taking Ermor's capital in a large and nasty battle (that, again, I'm not sure I would have won myself).

[revenant2]

Can I get a 12-hour extension?

I'd also like to request that we change the hosting to 72-hours from 60-hours moving forward because these turns are becoming rather complex and I suspect it will remain this way until the end.

An end that's probably a very long ways out because with nearly 300 territories and some very well armed nations I don't see this ending any time soon. However, no complaints since I'm really digging this match.

[AreaOfEffect]

No problems. I'll add the extension and move us to 72 hours. Meaning this turn will be 84 hours long, but since its the new year, it totally makes sense.

[AreaOfEffect]

This has indeed become one of those longer games. I can't say that any of the remaining players, Utgard being an exception, could be defeated in just a few rounds. The fact that some of the more powerful nations have to divide their efforts on multiple fronts has not made their job any easier.

[revenant2]

Mictlan went AI.

Kudos to YellowCactus for hanging in there as long as he did even though his position had been hopeless for many many turns. He was one scary dude in the beginning of the game with a crazy bless, but I think he grew too fast too quickly, and didn't have a chance to develop enough counters to what everyone threw his way.

[revenant2]

I'd love to hear a bit about everyone's strategy and a brief synopsis about how things went in the game after this game is done. With a game this epic, I'd think there are some interesting stories to be told.

[YellowCactus]

It WAS a fun game. Mictlan was not diplomatic enough in this game. Was a good time though!

[AreaOfEffect]

Updated Mictlan's status.

I would like to know Yellow's thought on who gets his dagger.

[YellowCactus]

Definately Googly1. He wore me down so the vultures could come in! (No offense, you Vultures!)

[AreaOfEffect]

Alright. Noted. When Mictlan is finally ashes, I'll grant C'tis his dagger.

Now, I'm counting up the daggers and I find I'm a bit short.

For the deaths of Gath and Patala, I have Ermor for 2 daggers.
For the death of Ulm I have Utgard for 1 dagger.
For the death of Argatha I have Tien Chi for 1 dagger.
For the death of Abyssia I have Pythium for 1 dagger.
For the deaths of Marignon, Jomon, and Ermor, I have Atlantis for 3 daggers.

When Utgard dies, I believe we agreed the dagger goes to Caelum.
When Mictlan dies, the dagger goes to C'tis.

Man, Bogarus, Arcoscephale, Caelum, Tien Chi, and Atlantis are all in fair condition. Though I believe Caelum is only half of what it use to be.

That leaves the death of Pythium unremembered. Can anyone help with this one?

[revenant2]

Alright. Noted. When Mictlan is finally ashes, I'll grant C'tis his dagger.

Now, I'm counting up the daggers and I find I'm a bit short.

For the deaths of Gath and Patala, I have Ermor for 2 daggers.
For the death of Ulm I have Utgard for 1 dagger.
For the death of Argatha I have Tien Chi for 1 dagger.
For the death of Abyssia I have Pythium for 1 dagger.
For the deaths of Marignon, Jomon, and Ermor, I have Atlantis for 3 daggers.

When Utgard dies, I believe we agreed the dagger goes to Caelum.
When Mictlan dies, the dagger goes to C'tis.

Man, Bogarus, Arcoscephale, Caelum, Tien Chi, and Atlantis are all in fair condition. Though I believe Caelum is only half of what it use to be.

That leaves the death of Pythium unremembered. Can anyone help with this one?

this is debatable, but I think the dagger for Abysia should probably go to me instead of Pythium. I had orchestrated Abysia's downfall with Pythium from the start and did the bulk of the fighting -- including taking his capitol -- although it was definitely a team effort.

For Pythium it's hard to tell since I was originally allied with them, but they decided to bum rush me with everything they had after they went AI, so I spent many turns trying to push them back and thin out their army until I was finally able to take their capitol. T'ien did quite a bit of fighting as well, so he might have different perspective.

[Groundworm]

Apologies for the short notice, but if you get this in time, AoE, I could use a 24-hour extension. I'm assuming you won't, so I'll try to get my turn in at the last minute.

Thanks, either way.

[AreaOfEffect]

Sorry I didn't read this time. Hope you got all your major moves in.

[AreaOfEffect]

So, before starting this game, there was a long lull where I abstained from Dominions 3. Yet we know its such a great game that no reasonable enthusiast of strategy games could stay away for very long.

I started this game as the latest CBM of the time. Personally, I played more vanilla then CBM in my total career. So the Zemy was an entirely new unit to me, as well as many other summoned commanders. In my calculations, the Zemy is possibly the most cost effective unit in the entire game. I would even put it above tartarians if what your looking for is a unit to stomp with. Now that may be extreme, but its an estimation of the pound-for-pound gain from a simple 30 gem investment. I was unfortunate to be unable obtain fire gems at all for the majority of the game. Even now, my total accumulation of said fire gems have been rather disappointing.

I will now make a sad face and get over it. Onwards!

[revenant2]

So, before starting this game, there was a long lull where I abstained from Dominions 3. Yet we know its such a great game that no reasonable enthusiast of strategy games could stay away for very long.

I started this game as the latest CBM of the time. Personally, I played more vanilla then CBM in my total career. So the Zemy was an entirely new unit to me, as well as many other summoned commanders. In my calculations, the Zemy is possibly the most cost effective unit in the entire game. I would even put it above tartarians if what your looking for is a unit to stomp with. Now that may be extreme, but its an estimation of the pound-for-pound gain from a simple 30 gem investment. I was unfortunate to be unable obtain fire gems at all for the majority of the game. Even now, my total accumulation of said fire gems have been rather disappointing.

I will now make a sad face and get over it. Onwards!

I think they are overpowered: From my experience they are hard to kill, hard to track down, pack a mean punch, and are relatively cheap to summon. In the few MP games I've been in (four including this one), it seemed that many of the players (including me) scrambled to build as many of these units as possible.

I've been able to find some counters, but they require a fair amount of resources to pull off. I don't know the details, but I think they are being toned down in a future CBM version.

[Groundworm]

If possible, I'll need a 12 hour extension for the turn. Thanks!

[AreaOfEffect]

If possible, I'll need a 12 hour extension for the turn. Thanks!

Granted.

[AreaOfEffect]

One staff of storms and my plans go to hell! Why that army? Its like the only army you have sent at me with a staff. Are you psychic? Should I not be thinking when I make up my plans? Just click around randomly and hope for the best?

Edit: Also, 49 commanders. Just saying.

[revenant2]

One staff of storms and my plans go to hell! Why that army? Its like the only army you have sent at me with a staff. Are you psychic? Should I not be thinking when I make up my plans? Just click around randomly and hope for the best?

Edit: Also, 49 commanders. Just saying.

Not psychic, although my mind is a raging torrent, flooded with rivulets of thought cascading into a waterfall of creative alternatives.

[AreaOfEffect]

Delayed hosting by 9 hours. Sorry guys.

[revenant2]

This probably isn't a big deal, but Atlantis staled on that last turn. I don't want to take advantage of someone when they can't fight back, so it might be good to delay hosting if we don't hear back from Danbo.

[AreaOfEffect]

I'm at a convention till late on Sunday and won't be able to submit my turns. I've delayed the game 24 hours.

[revenant2]

These turns are becoming rather involved. Actually, that's a massive understatement because they were involved about 70-turns ago and now they are on a whole different plane; I'm literally spending hours every night working on them.

No complaints though since this game more then feeds my evil, inner dictator. However, I'm going to request a 24-hour extension for this coming turn, so I can experience what the outside world is like and not have to worry about staying sober or my turn looming over me:)

[AreaOfEffect]

No problems. I'm always open to requests for extension.

[mattyburn7]

I will fight on, but the end of Bogarus is near. Atlantis is the one that can claim us as his victims.

[revenant2]

Thanks Matty. You fought the good fight. We'll avenge you against the monsters from the deep. To everyone else left, huge kudos for lasting nearly 7 months across 100 turns. I'm going to do everything in my power top kick all of your asses, but its been an honor to match wits against you all.

[AreaOfEffect]

The nation of Man salutes the valiant behavior of Bogarus. However, we must condemn their leadership in choosing to side against our ally. We suspect another nation coerced the taxed nation of Bogarus into its stance against those beloved and somehow adorable inhuman abominations.

We will double our efforts to put an end to such coercion by eliminating the highest probable suspect. Now begins the end of the morally weak nation of Arcoscephale. Should you rebuff our efforts, know this, a counter-offensive will prove utterly useless.

I understand you haven't had a very extensive visit of our lands. Please allow us to describe it for you so you can know what to expect. Just beyond what you see are our mountainous castles! Further on we have rolling hills of flush green castles! To the south are beaches of pristine castles! Let's also not forget our majestic fields of more castles! I hope you choke on our delicious looking castles!

Our citizens will never yield, never relent, never falter, and most certainly will never dodge our tax collection agents. Be rest assured, any citizenry that falls under your rule will be appraised of any back taxes that are due when under our loving protection once again. Though I suppose if we were to collapse onto our selves and just give up, I'm sure it would still take you the length of this war once over to claim our sacred lands.

Good day to you, and I hope you will somehow enjoy your inevitable demise.

Cheerio

[AreaOfEffect]

Requesting 12 more hours for myself. Turn postponed.

[Groundworm]

Requesting an additional 24 hours delay... it's been a busy weekend. Thanks!

[revenant2]

The nation of Man salutes the valiant behavior of Bogarus. However, we must condemn their leadership in choosing to side against our ally. We suspect another nation coerced the taxed nation of Bogarus into its stance against those beloved and somehow adorable inhuman abominations.

Our just and noble nation would never stoop to unfairly coerce an ally. I don't speak for Bogarus, but I suspect the multiple atrocities inflicted against them by those evil amphibians might have had something to do with their decision. We tried to assist them, but alas, the forces of evil were too strong.


I understand you haven't had a very extensive visit of our lands. Please allow us to describe it for you so you can know what to expect. Just beyond what you see are our mountainous castles! Further on we have rolling hills of flush green castles! To the south are beaches of pristine castles! Let's also not forget our majestic fields of more castles! I hope you choke on our delicious looking castles!


That's not true. We've had lots of visits actually -- courtesy of astral window. And you forgot to mention that your poor peasants chafe under nearly unspeakable economic conditions due to crippling taxes (120% taxes on your non-blood provinces for nearly a hundred turns). My fair republic isn't prepared to deal with the flood of refugees that would pour across our borders if we attempted a serious offensive, so we're content to put down the occasional raid and continue to offer hope for a better life for your people.


Though I suppose if we were to collapse onto our selves and just give up, I'm sure it would still take you the length of this war once over to claim our sacred lands.


That's okay. We're patient and it's only turn 98. We still have a long way to go :)

[mattyburn7]

The Atlantians are barbaric. They attacked our homeland almost from the beginning. Instead of wiping them out we allowed them to survive. Our mistake. They do unspeakable things to our women. They closed all of our seafood restaurants...One day we shall find a way to strike back at them!

[revenant2]

This turn is going to be complicated and this week is looking pretty bad from a work perspective. Can I get a 42-hour extension?

[AreaOfEffect]

This turn is going to be complicated and this week is looking pretty bad from a work perspective. Can I get a 42-hour extension?

Sort of granted. I've postponed the game by 41.98 hours.

[revenant2]

This turn is going to be complicated and this week is looking pretty bad from a work perspective. Can I get a 42-hour extension?

Sort of granted. I've postponed the game by 41.98 hours.

Thanks :up:

[revenant2]

I'm cranking out my turn, and I had a not-so-sudden realization: I'm not smart to be playing at this scale. My feeble human brain is having trouble handling all of the complexity. I can't even call it micromanagement -- it's just a ton of critical decisions every turn with a mega amount of uncertainty mixed in. Don't get me wrong, this is one of the things I like about Dominions, but don't be alarmed if I start making some seriously bone-headed decisions because at this point I might as well be a cunning monkey typing on a keyboard.

And speaking of monkeys, don't be alarmed if you see some flying around my capitol. They are just dropping off their latest batch of snacks to my hungry Wendigos.

[AreaOfEffect]

Once again the armies of Man march forward and strike another blow to the unfaithful heathens to our North.

Meanwhile, that vile nation of liverless fiends marches toward the war-torn remains of Caelum, that once glorious and wonderful nation. We should know, as we have brought the glory of our god to a few of the fortunate cites. Arco, that tarterous mass of bile that refers to itself as a kingdom will not succeed in wiping out the remains of Caelum should the nation of Man have anything to say. We have sheltered their refugees for many months now and will do our up most to protect the last remnants of that majestic race.

Here this you bottomless scourge of rotten meat, you will fail and die by our hands!

[danbo]

I'm currently on vacation with sporadic internet access and other difficulties. May I ask to extend hosting interval to 100 hrs per turn for about three weeks until March 23?

[Groundworm]

I agree with Revenant about the complexity of this game. As it turns out, I have a tremendous amount of scripting to do for this upcoming turn and not much time to do it. Requesting a 24 hour extension, please.

[revenant2]

I'm currently on vacation with sporadic internet access and other difficulties. May I ask to extend hosting interval to 100 hrs per turn for about three weeks until March 23?

Should we disable auto-hosting for the time being? That will give everyone plenty of time to take their turns, and this game is at a critical juncture where mistakes can be especially problematic. If someone takes an excessive amount of time, i.e., more than a week, then we can talk about forcing a host.

AOE,

If you need help managing this stuff let me know and I can help out.

[revenant2]

Once again the armies of Man march forward and strike another blow to the unfaithful heathens to our North.

Meanwhile, that vile nation of liverless fiends marches toward the war-torn remains of Caelum, that once glorious and wonderful nation. We should know, as we have brought the glory of our god to a few of the fortunate cites. Arco, that tarterous mass of bile that refers to itself as a kingdom will not succeed in wiping out the remains of Caelum should the nation of Man have anything to say. We have sheltered their refugees for many months now and will do our up most to protect the last remnants of that majestic race.

Here this you bottomless scourge of rotten meat, you will fail and die by our hands!

We've been introducing democracy to several of Caelum's freedom-loving provinces, and they are in no danger of being wiped out. In fact, many of Caelum's former military have joined my just and noble nation in our defensive war against the evil forces of the triple alliance, i.e., Man, T'ien, and Atlantis.

We have yet to see these fiends you mentioned. Are you sure they aren't some of your vampires that are feeding on the local population? Perhaps they ran out of Caelum refugees to feed on? We hear of many atrocities being committed in your lands.

[revenant2]

Crap. Both T'ien and Man staled.

[AreaOfEffect]

Yes, I was very depressed about the stale last night. I hadn't expected to miss the deadline. You leave the house and things happen some times. I'm kinda bummed and I'm sorry if others suffered while I was away from the wheel.

Removing Auto-host.
Moving the Host interval to 100hr as requested.

[revenant2]

Stuff happens. I wouldn't sweat it. I could tell that people were struggling with their turns, so I probably should have mentioned something earlier.

I sometimes get paranoid about getting my turn in time, so I'll often send in a preliminary turn and then send in updates. In fact, I probably send in 5-10 updates each turn now because there's always a bunch of things I miss.

Each one of these turns is like a separate project for me. I start off by creating a outline of what I want to accomplish each turn and then break that into tasks that I do in separate sittings. For instance, yesterday after I got my turn, I just focused on recruitment where all I do is figure out what units I need. Sometimes, I'll just focus on a single battle if it requires a lot of scripting. I even have a spreadsheet of all the territories with population, defenses, etc., so I can keep track of troop movements and weak points.

This is all fun (I love deep war games), but I could easily spend all day every day working on these turns if I let it. There's been a few times where I realized I like 3:00 AM I made a bone-headed move and then went to the computer to adjust my turn. My wife probably thinks I have a girl-friend on the side :)

[Groundworm]

That stale was, to say the least, costly. And that last turn was absolutely horrifying. I thought Flames from the Sky and Murdering Winter couldn't affect armies that were in castles!? I lost over 500 troops in that one province, which was well over half of my largest army!

Looking at the score charts, it's clear to me that Arcoscephale has won. There may still be some small contest to that, but I highly doubt it. Couple that with the immense amount of time it's taking all of us to do our turns, and I'm going to propose that we declare Arcoscephale the victor- revenant2 has earned it.

[HoleyDooley]

Dito.

[mattyburn7]

I agree. I hadn't looked at them in about 10 turns, but wow the trend is obvious for Arco.

[revenant2]

That stale was, to say the least, costly. And that last turn was absolutely horrifying. I thought Flames from the Sky and Murdering Winter couldn't affect armies that were in castles!? I lost over 500 troops in that one province, which was well over half of my largest army!

Looking at the score charts, it's clear to me that Arcoscephale has won. There may still be some small contest to that, but I highly doubt it. Couple that with the immense amount of time it's taking all of us to do our turns, and I'm going to propose that we declare Arcoscephale the victor- revenant2 has earned it.

I went a little nuts with the remote attacks against that army, but I was expecting you to use it to relieve your besieged fortress. I had actually moved in a large force to reinforce the siege so I could get first strike and attempt it's destruction.

I won't say that I've won this game with absolutely certainty, but I'd say things are looking pretty dire for the triple alliance. I've been saving up to cast Arcane Nexus that would hit in a few turns, and I'm not sure if you guys can concentrate enough forces to crack any of my fortresses without me causing massive damage to your armies via remote attack and assassination spells. I'm also pretty much immune to raiders as you guys discovered :)

I'll play this game to the bitter end, but I would obviously prefer to end it if everyone agrees I'm the clear winner. The amount of time it takes to complete these turns is pretty intensive.

[Groundworm]

Well, Arco, TC, Caelum, and Bogarus have spoken in favor of declaring Arco the winner. If Man and Atlantis agree, we'll have consensus. May I request a turn extension until we hear back from the last players?

[revenant2]

AOE said he disabled the auto-hosting, so we should be good.

[AreaOfEffect]

Postponed 12 hours. I'm sorry, but I need some sleep before I can round out the last of my changes.

[AreaOfEffect]

In regards to declaring Acro the winner, I'm on the bench. Until my most unfortunate stale, Acro had been unable to take any of my fortifications. Honestly, it has turned into trench warfare between the two of us. Then again, I can't say I was victim to the same army destroying rituals that you are all under. I'm likely not the biggest target of his aggression. Still, from my estimation, so long as my interest holds, I can remain in this game for another 50 to 70 turns even while losing badly the whole way.

If you want to declare Acro the winner by virtue of being able to win against the world, I refuse to see your view realistic. If you want to declare Acro winner by virtue of being king of the hill in the very late-game while interest apparently wains, then I can agree to that.

The real question is not, has Acro already won? The question is, do you want this game to end?

There is no shame in wanting to move on.

[revenant2]

In regards to declaring Acro the winner, I'm on the bench. Until my most unfortunate stale, Acro had been unable to take any of my fortifications. Honestly, it has turned into trench warfare between the two of us. Then again, I can't say I was victim to the same army destroying rituals that you are all under. I'm likely not the biggest target of his aggression. Still, from my estimation, so long as my interest holds, I can remain in this game for another 50 to 70 turns even while losing badly the whole way.

If you want to declare Acro the winner by virtue of being able to win against the world, I refuse to see your view realistic. If you want to declare Acro winner by virtue of being king of the hill in the very late-game while interest apparently wains, then I can agree to that.

The real question is not, has Acro already won? The question is, do you want this game to end?

There is no shame in wanting to move on.

Strategically, it doesn't make much sense for me to attack you AOE. You literally wrote the book on defensive warfare with LA man, so I'm using just enough force to keep you at bay so I can focus on other fronts.

[mattyburn7]

I'm happy to keep playing if others want to. When I commit, I commit for the long haul. I can certainly say this though...I'm not winning! LOL

[AreaOfEffect]

I figured I was getting minimal treatment. I'm going to allow this turn to play out and then wait a day for any major objections to calling the game, just to give danbo a chance to put in his two cents.

Edit: Then again, it seems that Tein and Caelum are behind on turns. I might just extend this turn another day instead.

[AreaOfEffect]

Turn extended another 24 hours to allow players to submit turns and continue discussion/raise opposition to declaring a winner.

[revenant2]

I'm happy to keep playing if others want to. When I commit, I commit for the long haul. I can certainly say this though...I'm not winning! LOL

I feel the same way. I'll play this game until the very last man if that's what it takes. I definitely won't want anyone to feel they need to concede if they still have hope. If we do keep playing, I'll continue to play as hard and ruthlessly as I can.

[Groundworm]

I'm unexpectedly out of town until Tuesday afternoon, with minimal internet access. I'll try to submit my turn before then, but may not be able to. Apologies.

[revenant2]

It's quiet around here.

Let me break the ice and tell you about a bone-headed I made earlier in this game. For several turns I noticed that the population of my capitol wasn't growing and I had hundreds of corpses strewn across the country side. I was convinced that AOE was up to some sneaky mischief, but despite blanketing my province with mind hunts and numerous patrols I couldn't find a thing.

The turns are going by and my population is shrinking despite having crazy good scales, and it's driving me nuts -- until I realized that it was due to my Wendigos, which were snacking on my population. I had no idea they had this effect, but it happened for long enough that despite 100+ turns my capitol has barely grown.

I realize I'm an idiot, but I try to salvage the situation and use Carrion Reanimation to turn those corpses into soulless. I end up reanimating several hundred of them and kept them in my capitol as a possible reserve force if things begin to go poorly on one of my fronts.

Little did I know that this was also a bone-headed move because those undead have lots of nasty afflictions that were interfering with my priests heal ability, which meant I had less mind hunters for several turns.

There was lots of other stupid stuff I've done in this game, but that's the most recent.

[AreaOfEffect]

I like being blamed for suspicious activity. I was actually mind controlling you to do such things by the way. I'm totally foiling all of your plans everywhere because I am always watching you in your head, and I'm always in control.

Now look deeper into my avatars picture once again.

[revenant2]

Now look deeper into my avatars picture once again.

I shall obey.

http://www.digitalbusstop.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/I-Shall-Obey.gif

[revenant2]

Both T'ien and Atlantis staled that last turn. This was especially problematic for T'ien who lost several engagements -- including one where he lost an entire major army. He still has some scattered troops, a broken army holed up one of his fortresses, and a few SCs floating around, but I don't think he has any hope of stopping my advance.

Atlantis looks to be in pretty poor shape as well with a few disease-ridden armies that I've been blasting mercilessly with remote attack and assassination spells. He's likely going to lose a good chunk of those next turn as well -- especially if he stales again.

I feel like this game has already run it's natural course. Under all of the game metrics, e.g., provinces, gold income, etc, I'm ahead of everyone else combined with room to spare.

I want to be respectful and can understand if someone wants to fight on, but I'm hoping we can end this soon to save time for ourselves. If not, I'll continue to fight to the best of my ability.

[AreaOfEffect]

I personally didn't put enough stock into domes, and I'm paying the cost. Without the other major players consistently putting forth the effort, I will have to agree that revenant's victory is a foregone conclusion.

I'm going to wait until tomorrow just to see if there are any objections, but if not, I will close out the game and announce our new winner.

[revenant2]

I personally didn't put enough stock into domes, and I'm paying the cost.

This must have been due to the mind hunts? I wasn't sure how effective they were since I suspected you were using scouts to help shield yourself.

[AreaOfEffect]

Your mind hunts were on the whole ineffective. I utilized scouts, always bought an indy commander and started to protect my valuables with sneaking astral mages. I was referring to the shatter walls spell, I could have made them less effective by using domes.

[AreaOfEffect]

On a different note, I declare the game officially concluded with revenant2 the winner. Congrats. Perhaps next time you will fall by my hands.

[revenant2]

Your mind hunts were on the whole ineffective. I utilized scouts, always bought an indy commander and started to protect my valuables with sneaking astral mages. I was referring to the shatter walls spell, I could have made them less effective by using domes.

That makes sense.

I'm sure you already figured it out, but my plan was hit a bunch of your fortresses simultaneously so that you couldn't reinforce them. The mind hunts were there to try to stop from moving troops around.

Rain of Stones was a real pain BTW. I had to break up my large astral enslave armies into much smaller forces to avoid getting decimated.

However, at the end I was recruiting so many mystics a turn (40+) that I didn't care too much if a few got pulverized.

[revenant2]

On a different note, I declare the game officially concluded with revenant2 the winner. Congrats. Perhaps next time you will fall by my hands.

Thanks everyone.

This game was pretty wild -- at least for me. I don't think I had a single peaceful turn from about turn 10 and onward.

I wasn't sure what I was getting into when I chose LA Arco. I actually though they were supposed to be a bit weak, but nothing could have been further from the truth.

Their priestesses are all kinds of awesome.

[Groundworm]

Congrats on the win, rev, and well-deserved. I had honestly considered you to be a rival, but not a true threat, while we were cooperating against Caelum (who, at the time, was definitely stronger than either of us). However, you took a large portion of Caelum's empire and your power jumped off the charts.

BTW, was it deliberate the way you attacked Caelum in such a way as to block me off from most of their territories? If so, nicely done.

I'm curious- priestesses? Of all the tools Arco has at their disposal, why did you single them out as particularly excellent? In what capacity did you use them that made them so valuable?

[revenant2]

Congrats on the win, rev, and well-deserved. I had honestly considered you to be a rival, but not a true threat, while we were cooperating against Caelum (who, at the time, was definitely stronger than either of us). However, you took a large portion of Caelum's empire and your power jumped off the charts.

BTW, was it deliberate the way you attacked Caelum in such a way as to block me off from most of their territories? If so, nicely done.

I'm curious- priestesses? Of all the tools Arco has at their disposal, why did you single them out as particularly excellent? In what capacity did you use them that made them so valuable?

Acro priests are sacred units with the ability to cure afflictions and come standard with Nature 1 and Holy 2. This allows for a variety of very cool tactics:

1.) Mind hunting without fear of feeblemind.

I made it a priority to field a small army of +5 penetration mind hunters. Depending on the movements of my armies, I had between 8-12 mind hunters that I used to knock out raiders and disrupt army movements.

Against AOE and you they weren't terribly effective (although they are were good at knocking out sneaking units). However, I did quite a bit of damage against Atlantis and they absolutely saved my butt when fighting Mictlan.

2.) Resilient armies.

I always made sure that each of my major armies had a priestess or two to help heal afflictions. Besides the obvious value of not having afflictions, it made my armies virtually immune to leprosy, which was used extensively against me.

3.) Excellent at defense.

This might be surprising, but with their nature 1 ability and the right boosters they can easily cast Animal Horde or cast Forest Dome for defense. I did this a bunch of times in this game when you guys threatened my castles. It was partly for this reason that I tried to make sure that I kept a priestess in each of my fortresses.

4.) They are good researchers and preachers.

Due to their sacred status they are the most cost effective researcher for LA Arco. If you accumulate them, you can also use them to help preach, which means you can get away with having weaker dominion as well.

[revenant2]

BTW, was it deliberate the way you attacked Caelum in such a way as to block me off from most of their territories? If so, nicely done.


I think this was due to how we were situated on the map, although I did move aggressively to take his fortresses on our border since I suspected I would need them against you.

In terms of placement, Atlantis was almost totally shielded by you. I had a little border with him on the South, but I couldn't mount a significant offensive. This might have been a good thing since he had some very scary armies.

By the way, I tried to stop you from joining the coalition for as long as possible and viewed you as a major threat. I had actually held back against the other guys so I could field enough strength to counterattack your inevitable invasion.

Despite this, I had a few tense turns after you invaded where things went rather poorly for me.

[shunwick]

Yes, Congratulations to Revenant 2 for his victory. I have always been sad that I could not continue this game and believe it or not I have only just got internet connection again (last two and half weeks).

Best wishes,
Steve

[revenant2]

Yes, Congratulations to Revenant 2 for his victory. I have always been sad that I could not continue this game and believe it or not I have only just got internet connection again (last two and half weeks).

Best wishes,
Steve

How did you survive without internet for six months? That sounds terrible.

I should be the one thanking you. If it wasn't for our early alliance and our early rush of Abysia, my position would have been much worse.

[shunwick]

The internet connection came rather quickly in the end but from 10 October to 20 February, they had NINE attempts to activate my phone line. After that it was a wait to 5 March for the broadband connection.

And yes, I was pulling my hair out.

I am glad that my pull out didn't give you huge headaches.

All the best,
Steve

[revenant2]

I am glad that my pull out didn't give you huge headaches.
Steve

I wouldn't say that :)

After you went AI your former nation went full retard and threw everything they had on my unprotected heartland. I had a few very tense turns, but in the long-run it benefited me since I was able to secure your very nice capitol and a good chunk of your territory.