Archive

Turn 15
The grateful refugees resettle in their old lands. And promptly give their allegiance to the France's closest succesor, the Confederation of the Clock, as otherwise they would be defenseless and vulnerable. Theosoph forces have begun moving defenses into the area in aid of their allies.
 * France Reclaimed**

You gain influence with the Confederation of the Clock.
 * To the Army of Othar Tryggvassen**

Yes, I do plan to continue my assault. You may help if you wish.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Princedom of Transylvania**

It is nothing, we will help all those in need against such an all consuming threat. We only wish we could have done more.
 * The Bulgarian Empire to the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun**

A large airship sails to the border of the old Wild Woods where the Mountain King still maintains a colony. In it Kaiser Grimwald is seated in a small conference room waiting for the Mountain King's party. When they arrive he simply says, "Well I have been told you have news I need to hear. What have you found?"
 * The Kaiser to the Mountain King and the Kaiser's Guard**

Reports have begun to circulate throughout Europa that while the armies of the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun were out helping helping the poor refugees of the Spain the vile pirates of the Loki Brigade assaulted their home ports and plundered their towns.
 * The Loki Brigade strike again**

We all had a good laugh when we heard what they were doing. Of course none of us have anything to fear from such accusations.
 * The Skulding Tribes to the Loki's Brigade**

OOC: Actually I forgot to make it public. And you do lose WO from attacking, but since you're already negative that means you actually gained negative WO. You're at (++++) WO now.

Yes, how willing would you be to redirect your energies against the Celts in Exile.
 * The Kaiser to the Loki's Brigade (PM)**

What all of them. That's a lot of Jaegers. I'm not even sure if we have that many cars available yet. Well according to my books [+++ t. econ] for all the tickets.
 * Russia to the Glorious Army of Othar Tryggvassen**

Grigori Petrov, Rail Clerk 1st Class

Turn 14
You have gained some influence with the Celts in Exile however they simply do not wish to fight anyone right now. If you want them to join you against the Skulding you will need considerably more influence. Simply because the Celts in Exile want time to recuperate from their war losses and don't wish to be involved in any sort of outside affairs.
 * To the Mountain King and the Princedom of Transylvania**

Simply continue to help the Spanish refugees. Especially as they make their way towards Africa. We do not require any assistance fortunately as the African provinces were well maintained prior to to the war.
 * Spain in Exile to the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun**

OOC: It has deteriorated somewhat but is still substantial.

Spain in Exile is a special case. It might be small now but the Spanish King used to rule one of the most powerful countries in Europa and he fully intends to get it back. As such he isn't going to agree to a merger with anyone. As such despite its small stat pool Spain in Exile is going to take a fairly large amount of influence to convince. At least as long as the Spanish King is alive.

OOC: Anyone who posted actions is going to have to save it for the EoTs, as I am not doing any more action processing this turn.

What do you think we just keep piles of corpses lying around. If you hire us we're more than willing to kill some monsters for you, but you'll have to pay our standard rates. ++- for every + of us, and we'll turn over everything we manage to kill.
 * Parisian Mercenaries to the Princedom of Transylvania (PM)**

Armies march and powers clash once more as the war in Europa rages on. In the west Germania finds little to its liking as crystalline fortifications seem to spring up from nowhere as Theosoph and mercenary troops continue to hold the border, and even begin a counter advance into Germania.
 * The Great War**

Unfortunately that is among the only good news for the French allies this season. In the north the United Celtic Irish Clansmen land fresh troops and clanks on the French border to reinforce their kin and allies the Celts in Exile. Together the two armies push the Molvian-Hultz force back into France and begin securing French territory.

And worse yet is the southern front. In a decisive victory Spanish forces, bolstered by their allies the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun and the Kinghts Hosptitallers push completely through Southern France. Taking only minimal casualties the Spanish alliance rolls up France and its own allies the Celestial Empire claiming mile after mile of French territory for Spain.

Unfortunately for Spain bad tidings are not the sole province of France this year. The Skulding have struck again. With their new allies the Loki Brigade they have smashed into the poorly defended Celts in Exile northern ports easily tossing aside the few defenders, mostly troops recovering from their wounds from the French front. Ransacking the port warehouses the Skulding quickly filled their long boats and put out to sea once more well before the main Celtic armies could respond. And taking advantage of the Celtic pull back Molvian Hultz forces have resecured the French border.
 * The Celts Retreat.**

Meanwhile in the Mediterranean merchants of the Celestial Empire have launched an aggressive campaign against Knight Hospitallers markets. Slashing their own prices and offering more competitive deals they have managed to reduce the once vibrant Knight trading empire to a handful of factories on Malta itself.
 * The Knights Bought Out.**

Sweeping south and then west the new Lady Heterodyne has lead her Jaegers into Spanish held lands and destroyed the light Spanish garrisons left behind when Spain moved its forces to the front. At first apprehensive as to the Heterodyne's intentions the people were somewhat reassured when the Heterodyne announced that she was simply offering a gift to her gracious Italian hosts in return for their hospitality over the last few months. And that since they had expressed a desire to reunite with their comrades who had been annexed by Spain she had decided that this was the best way to express her best wishes to Italy.
 * The Heterodyne Gift**

Europa at large has been somewhat dismayed by this apparent return to the Heterodynes of old, but her explanation and the apparent easy reunification of the annexed Italian city states with their brethren has mollified them for now. And left them puzzling over the Heterodyne's last declaration and apparent secondary reason for occupying the Spanish territories. "He was just a misunderstanding. You silly buggers flipped the switch left when you should have flipped it right. Now that I've found the main one and flipped it back you should have no trouble."

Rumors are crossing Europa that the Glorious Army of Othar Tryggvassen was involved in supplying the Skulding with the super weapons that let the Skulding rescue the Loki Brigade from their entrapment by the Transylvanians and Mountain King's forces. If true then the Glroius Army let the two worst pirates in Europa join forces. However the rumors are offset by the Glorious Army's work in France where it has been giving proper burials to fallen soldiers and informing their families when the military command's were too hard pressed to do so.
 * The Glorious Army Rumors of Evil**


 * Glorious Army loses + WO.**

In the north the back and forth fighting continues as the celtic clansmen attempt to take advantage of their previous victories to drive forward into France. Unfortunately for them however the Molvians have bolstered their lines and throw the Celts back returning the borders once again to their pre war boundaries.
 * Spain Vs. France**

On the eastern front the Theosophs crystal fortresses continue to hold against the Germanian forces. Once more bolstered by mercenaries the French vassals repulse the attacking forces and once more a stalemate holds over the east.

Explosions rocked the western front where the main battle took place as agents from both sides managed to penetrate and destroy huge quantities of war material. Undeterred by their losses the two armies began shelling each other and preparing their assaults. Fortunately for France Spain had lost much of its momentum due to several allies not arriving in time so the forward thrust died and stalemate was achieved was once more. Albeit a stalemate deep in French territory.

However as the two sides settled down to mend their wounds and await reinforcements new forms arose on the horizon. On the eastern flank the soldiers of the two armies spotted the massed cavalry of the entire Jaeger horde. And behind them the battle walkers created by the Heterodyne to let her less resilient forces keep up. And on the eastern flank walking out of the sea the entire Skulding fleet. Both new forces fresh and riding to glorious war. However rather than attacking both sides the new armies were very precise. In the east the Jaegers began rolling up the Spanish flank. In the west the Skulding did the same to the French. Confusion reigned as neither of the two battered armies knew what to do. Reinforcements attempted to wheel to face their respective attackers only to run into each other. Some units attempted to retreat only to find Jaeger and Skulding forces using their renowned mobility to cut around behind them. In the end both superpowers were decimated only a few survivors managing to flee the scene of carnage.

Never even acknowledging each other the two surprise attackers then parted ways. The Jaegers heading south into Spanish lands now completely undefended and the Skulding North into French territory ripe for pillaging. Leaving a trail of pillaged lands the two armies looted everything they came across as desperate villagers hastened to escape their path.

Then they appeared. Shimmering out of nowhere as if spawned from the air itself. The entire English fleet. From the smallest schooners to the newest steel battleships. Except they weren't in the water. They were flying, sailing over the French and Spanish coasts. Establishing bases they claimed the coasts for the Crown and began organizing new towns. The fleeing refugees only to glad to accept the promise of protection. Not wanting to fight England yet again the Skulding curved around to the southeast and reentered the Mediterranean. And the Heterodyne claimed Madrid as her own.

Battle Losses Molvia: +++ UICC: ++++

Theosophs: +++ Mercenaries: + Kaiser's Guard: ++++

Spain: 10 France: 8 Celestial: 2 Mercenaries: 2

Espionage losses

Spain: 11.5 France: 14

Surprise Attack Losses Spain: 16.5 France: 16.5

Like many years previously this year the monster swarms again surge across Europa. The clanking constructs, the giant beetles, the mutated beasts. By now it had become somewhat routine if still quite terrifying to those not fortunate to live in patrolled territories. But this year something wasn't different. Not only were there more monsters than ever before pouring in waves out of their tunnels and across the sky, but they persisted. In other years it had been a simple seasonal thing, but not this time. This time the monster hordes refused to give up. Rather than dissipating back into their burrows and lairs once they encountered resistance this time the monsters swept around. Like the sea against cliffs the hordes curled around the defended lands looking for undefended territory and as the swarms avoided the guarded points they ran into each other, and merged and grew. And then they found it. The lands of Spain and France. Torn apart by war, undefended by soldiers, perfect for them. Acting as one the massive horde spread out to ravage the area and make itself at home. Which unfortunately for France and Spain was the last straw. Breaking under the strain their respective governments dissolved and refugees began pouring into nearby countries with all they could carry.
 * Monsters Surge and Stay**

Monstrous Horde Magnitude (+++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++) The +s indicate how much damage they can do.

After extended discussions that have lasted for years and even continued during the war, albiet in more strained settings Molvia-Hultz has agreed to become part of the Germanian Empire.
 * Molvia Hultz and Germania**

During the last days of France a massive convoy was seen leaving Paris. Guarded by elite mercenaries it made its way east fending off bandits, rogue soldiers, stray Skulding, and numerous monster attacks. Making its way to the old swiss territories it disappeared into the mountains. Shortly afterwards the Confederation of the Clock declared itself independent stating that there was nothing more they could do for their former liege and ally France. They and France's other former vassal, the Theosophs, have declared a full military alliance and treaty to protect themselves in the chaotic days ahead.
 * The Confederation of the Clock**

Perhaps you are worried that your assets have been lost. Do not worry. We saved everything. The bank has been moved in its entirety and will remain open in the Swiss mountains where even a surprise like the one which just occurred will not be able to harm it.
 * Confederation of the Clock to the Celestial Empire**

They aren't.
 * Russia to the Kaiser's Guard**

We are amenable to such a proposal. And in fact will create an alliance between ourselves. However you are already engaged in a war, and we do not want to be pulled into it. You may join the alliance once you are no longer in that or any other wars.
 * The Great Unified Greek States and the Bulgarian Empire to the Celestial Empire**

We decline the offer to sweep our networks. We are quite confident in our own defenses.

OOC: If you set aside some military to watch out for raids then yes. But only the military you put on alert would be able to. It wouldn't be an automatic thing.

1. The Heterodyne trusts you a little more. 2. You manage to clear away about 32% of the bodies before the next wave of battles start. 3. Your clanks are a little more liked by people of Europa for their compassion.
 * To the Glorious Army of Othar Tryggvassen**

We will be able to deliver the device to you in six month's time. (During the EoT)
 * The University of Celenae to the Mountain King**

The Celestial Empire has sent you a ++ p. econ loan. In hopes that will help you rebuild in a positive direction.
 * To the Loki Brigade**

The city of lights continues still, albeit under new managment. Claiming it as their "back pay" the many mercenary companies hired by the French to fight in the war have moved into Paris and cleared it of monsters. They have turned it into a both a headquarters for their mercenaries and place for their soldiers to relax taking advantage of Paris's somewhat sordid reputation. Several merchants have also returned and begin setting up business, and without any oversight from a government Paris is rapidly acquiring a reputation as the place to buy anything no questions asked.
 * Paris Stabilized**

King Fabricio Roldán Salcedo has resurfaced in Spain's African provinces. Establishing a government in semi exile he has proclaimed that this is not the end for Spain. He will use what resources he has left, and eventually Spain will be reestablished.
 * Spanish Monarchy Lives!**

Performing their arcane rites the Theosophs have begun expanding their fortresses. Demonstrating once more their ability to rapidly grow and place the crystal constructions a massive blue wall has grown up along the western border of the Confederation of the Clock as the Theosophs move to protect their allies. Where once they were viewed with suspicion they now prove to be one of the bastions of France and refugees flock to the Theosophs to take shelter behind and around their walls.
 * The Blue Wall **

With the French intelligence networks dissolving some of their agents have made their way to you. You gain ++ defensive Esp, and ++ offensive espionage.
 * To the Celestial Empire**

With Spain shattered many refugees have fled into your country. They have brought with them what assets they could carry and a few prove to have been former Spanish intelligence agents. You gain + Econ, ++ defensive Esp, and ++ offensive espionage.
 * To the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun**

Italy and Russia agree to help you. The spread word of your positive actions around Europa. You gain + WO.
 * To the GAoOT**

You don't get any definitive proof, but your agents find hints that the Kaiser's Guard are behind these malicious rumors.

A representative is sent from each country to Constantinople.
 * Celts in Exile, Confederation of the Clock, Germania, Knights Hospitallers, Theosophs to the Celestial Empire**

Unfortunately we cannot afford to be generous when we have been reduced so much so now that the agreed upon contract is over we will not be able to renew. Thus only [+ econ] will be yielded this year. And quite frankly many of the critical components that allowed our analysts to produce such yields were lost in the war.
 * Confederation of the Clock to the Celestial Empire**

Me and the Jaegers are going to have some fun!
 * House Heterodyne to the Celestial Empire**

We may have some, but the Mountain King just confirmed a very large contract we will need to complete first.
 * University of Celaenae**

OOC: Those questions are basically linked. The more you spend the more of a bonus you'll get.

If you wish.
 * The Great Unified Greek States and the Bulgarian Empire to the Celestial Empire**

Probably displaced troops from the former Ottoman Empire. Quite a few mercenaries used to be soldiers in one or another army and still have some of their old equipment. Likely they slipped away when the Celestial Empire caused the Ottoman Empire to collapse.
 * Russia to the Kaiser's Guard**

Turn 13
Central Europa (Loki's Brigade, Celestial Empire, Mountain King, and Transylvania) With deliberate care the Transylvanian fleet lay in their sights and the Mountain King crew bring their anti air guns to bear. And then a hail of fire begins to pound the Loki Brigade into scrap. The Loki airship immediately turn to flee, but their chances look dire. But then things change. First it is only a low rumble, then the ground under the Mountain King's army start shaking with more and more intensity. And the water is every where. Huge geysers shoot into the air with massive force, almost high enough to touch the airships above. The ground is instantly turned into a rapidly growing lake with icebergs of some blue crystal substances brought up by the water floating with it. And not just icebergs but Skulding ships. Lots and lots of Skulding ships. Almost the entire fleet barring a few small squadrons that had obviously been detached to menace the coalition countries elsewhere. Riding the waves they had created the Skulding sweep through the disorganized Mountain King army trying to swim to shore, and focus their own fire on the Transylvanian airships. With precision and skill most put past the first impressions of the Skulding berserkers fins are picked off, and engines destroyed. And in one particular section gas bags punctured. Then the Skulding fire huge grappling hooks, but not at that Translyvanian fleet. No instead they latch onto the few surviving Loki airships. Within moments it is over. The disoriented coalition is left to watch in shock as the Skulding fleet skitters over the countryside far too fast for the damaged Transylvanian airships or the swimming Mountain King army to follow, towing the battered remnants of the Loki Brigade behind them.

In their wake they leave behind shocked coalition soldiers, and huge numbers of crashed and dying Loki Brigade airships.

Skulding Raiders + Mountain King + Transylvania + Loki Brigade +++++
 * Casualties**

Also for the record the Skulding have been sitting there watching things play out from the start, waiting for the Loki Brigade to agree to their demands. Which means yes their espionage did beat the checks the Mountain King made. That check was actually the very first one I made in all this. And they also used a one shot superweapon they've been working on for two turns, even from before this even came up. So no complaints the Skulding paid for this rescue just like coalition paid for the first strike. And the Loki Brigade lost 5 mil, and 3 econ which I think is pretty crippling.


 * Skulding to the Loki's Brigade [PM]**

Very well we pulled you out of the fire. And now you'll start repaying us by helping to raid the Celts in Exile. Their army has taken losses recently leaving them fat and open. Perfect for rebuilding both our losses.

OOC: One is mil and the other is a boost to making more. I thought that was pretty obvious.
 * Universtiy of Celaenae**

We estimate that it took us [40] spark to get the factories running correctly. And we think that you misunderstood, we believe that the better solution would be to simply give us the resources to produce more clanks in the factories we already have rather than go to all the effort to build new ones in your own country.

The Birds of Prey look at Lord Sun quizzically. "That, you're really asking us about that. You're more worried about some stupid feud between you and the Mountain King than the largest incursion of slaver wasps and revenants since the Other controlled by someone who knows exactly what they can do. We've spent years fighting these things and you question our integrity. This is a far more important matter, and even if it weren't the question was already investigated by France and Spain, and of no concern of us. Unless of course you are saying that a question that burns so bright for you now was not enough to go through with asking the intercession of the major powers when it was offered."
 * To the GAoOT**

"Open your eyes clank and see what is at stake here. Not just our reputation, not your petty feud. If the Puppetmaster wins he will have an entire country with which to assault the rest of Europa. If we were to say that we did it what would you do, kill us. Here in the heart of our power. Our own bodyguards would eradicate you even as we breathed our last, and the Puppetmaster would laugh while he danced on both our graves. And if we were to say that we did not do it, would you believe us, or would you waste valuable time double checking, just like you wasted valuable time now in merely asking the question."

"And moreover you're own questions are no longer even relevant. Not everything revolves around you clank. Do not let your delusions of grandeur overpower your sense of reality. You may have delivered the detector, but the decision and major part now belongs to the Heterodyne."

OOC: Othar Tryggvassen has already left after the Puppetmaster.

You are a bit late. The Celestial Empire has already handed their influence over to Italy. And influence isn't just a deed, its the hearts and minds of the people. So when you hand over influence you're actually convincing them that really truely should want the otehr person to rule them more than you. So basically trying to say Italy is evil would be pointless now, because A. They're Italians now too, and in fact have been from the start they were just independent of the main unification, and B. The Celestial Empire just spent all their fairly considerable influence convincing them otherwise. So they're fairly pro Italy right now.
 * Corsica**

In a stunning display of carnage the war between France and Spain has begun with a first strike by Spain. And it has quickly resolved into two fronts. The main fighting happened in the South as Spain attempted to press into France. The carnage was brutal and hundreds of thousands of men died on both sides, but eventually Spanish Forces were able to push the majority of French forces out of the mountains. However there the line stopped as redoubled French resistance brought Spanish offensive to a grinding halt.
 * War over Europa**

Things proved more promising for France and its allies in the North. Through a delicate series of manuevers that avoided placing Molvia-Hultz and Germania in opposition the Molvian forces ended up fighting in the far north against the Celtic armies. There's was the most impressive victory of the season as they not only drove the Celts out of France, but also moved forward to capture some of the Celts in Exiles own border provinces. Further south a stop gap coalition of France's new vassals, the Theosophs, and hastily bought mercenaries was able to keep Germania's forces from advancing but were unable to replicate Molvia's success.

Both Spain and France are now calling on their allies to give their full support in this war to end all wars.

France and allies: 33.5 Spain and allies: 36
 * Total Casualties in the Great War**

France: 22
 * Detailed Breakdown for actual particpants**
 * Southern Front**

Spain 21.5 Knights Hospitallers 1.5

Molvia-HUltz ++- Celts in Exile +++++
 * Northern Front**

Theosophs +++- Mercenaries +++++ -
 * North-Eastern Front**

Kaiser's Guard +++++ + Germania +++

Corsair joined Spain. Baron Wulfenbach is nowhere near here.
 * To Glorious Army of Othar Tryggvassen**
 * OOC:**

Everything goes according to plan at least to start. At the Italian reception the revenant detector, hastily modified by the University, is given to the Lady Heterodyne. The Birds of Prey are present and do look a bit worried and stressed, but things take a turn once the Heterodyne opens the crate with the detector. She immediatly goes into spark mode as the Universities lure hit and parts begin to fly as she works on the detector. Everyone is focused on watching her, but your observers tasked with watching the Birds of Prey notice something. They don't look nervous or strained anymore. When they saw the detector their faces lit up and they actually looked happy.
 * Italian Reception Hall**

The Birds of Prey begin making their way to the front when it happens. Assasins crash into the building where the reception is being housed. Your clanks move to protect the Heterodyne as planned, but she isn't the target. The Birds of Prey are. They manage to fight them off, but are badly wounded in the process.

Afterwards they manage to explain what has been going on in between gasps as their wounds are treated. Several years ago in their arrogance they arranged to work with the Celestial Empire on a project. In their arrogance they believed that they could control what no one else could, slaver wasps. The project was a success and they and the Celestial Empire parted ways. But in the course of their efforts they had discovered a secret. The revenants were just a cover. A statistical anomaly. Most people infected with slaver wasps showed no outward signs, but they could be controlled. Again in their hubris the Birds of Prey thought they could use this. They began work on improved slaver wasps. Ones that didn't have the statstical anomaly. Perfect revenants the ultimate spies.

And that's where it went wrong. Several of their improved engines were stolen. When they were tracked down it was already too late. They had been activated by an unknown party. The Birds of Prey tried to track them down but were distracted by the Italian Unification discussions. By the time they got back to it they found signs of revenants everywhere spread throughout Birds of Prey lands and into surrounding Italian city states. Knowing they couldn't deal with it alone they approached the other Italian factions for help. Since then all of Italy has been locked in a secret war with the revenant controller, they call it the Puppetmaster, but only the officials at the highest levels know what is really going on. The war has not been going well. Oh sure outwardly Ialy is doing fine, but that's the problem. They an't find the revenants. They catch one or two every so often, but not enough to make a difference. And in the background they can see the workings of the Puppetmaster taking control.

When they saw the revenant detector they saw a chance. They recognized it as being based off the technology produced in the old alliance with the Celestial Empire. But with modifications. And they knew the Glorious army had pronounced the Ottoman Empire clean of revenants. In order to do that they must have had some way of detecting revenants. They put the two together and guessed that this was some kind of revenant detector. They hoped to persuade the Heterodyne to use it sweep their country clean. They still hope that.

At this point all eyes turn to the Heterodyne who is still busy working on the detector. Which is all the distraction a revenant assasin needs to make a leap for the device. There is a flash of light and the assasin is liening on the ground while the Heterodyne puts away a smoking tool. She looks at the assasin briefly mutters, interesting, and gets back to work.

No matter what the Heterodyne decides certain things are set in motion by these revelations as the information spreads through the witnesses gossip. First for setting all this off the Birds of Prey are viewed with disfavor. Their power is much reduced. Still they were the most powerful of the Italian factions before and even reduced they are still a force to be reckoned with. As the news disseminates through Italy many people are drawn to the Glorious armies ideals and are quietly recruited into their networks. You gain ++ esp o. You also gain + morale as your views on sparks and their dangers are vindicated.
 * Aftermath**

The United Italian States themselves are in a state of chaos as people don't know what to do or who to trust. What exactly their future holds is still a mystery to them.

Skulding raiders have been sighted off your coast, by your advance networks of lookouts. They estimate that between 5 to 10 mil of raiders are in the fleet. Apparently your efforts to scare them off aren't enough to offset both attacking them and leaving your lands apparently undefended.
 * To the Princedom of Transylvania**

You tunnel listeners pick up the sounds of running water in the tunnels leading to New Morlockia, and clanking.
 * To the Mountain King**

Your agents pick up lone Skulding scouts near your coasts in the Mediterranean. Apparently trying to determine whether your defenses have been shored up since the Loki attack or not. (And if you're wondering how they knew about the Loki attack. News travels fast amongst the criminal element of Europa. Plus I assume at some point you did announce it so it didn't look like you attacked the Loki Brigade for no reason at all.)
 * To the Celestial Empire**

Us if understanding that humans are about to do a better job killing each other than they ever could ever present rogue monster hordes have been quiet in recent months. Attacks are much lower than last year. Rumors out of Russia indicate that the Russia juggernaut easily dealt with a small infestation of iron beetles. The much smaller Italian military dealt with a small grove of walking trees. The Wulfenbach and Kaiser guard's prevent any of their respective territories from being overrun. And Molvia-Hultz's agreement with Bulgarian proves useful once more as the Bulgarian envoy in residence once more tames a herd of exploding cows. Surpsingly the only major casualties are sustained by the Army of Othar's defense clanks when a surprise uprising of mutant moles attacked their caravans, and since they in fact only clanks most citizens of Europa are regarding this as year as one of relief even with the major war beginning.
 * Year of Calm**

Army of the Architect loses - mil.
 * Unlucky Lottery**

In addition to the other more general monster attacks your forces are hard pressed to contain the oozes ravaging Germania. Your forces have contained them for now, but they are by no means eliminated or even reduced.
 * To the Kaiser's Guard**

A short flurry of messages fly as the various allies of France and Spain organize themselves. In the end the Knights Hospitallers, Celts in Exile, and Germania declare alliance with Spain and war on France. On the other side Molvia-Hultz and the Theosophs declare alliance with France and war on Spain. Most analysts agree that in terms of pure military force Spain and its current allies have a small advantage over the French.
 * War!**

That is a question for later. Right now the Jaegers are just taking me on a little tour of Europa to celebrate my birthday. You may join us if you wish.
 * House Heterodyne to the Princedom of Transylvania**

Agatha

The Baron examines the documents and then leads the Professor into a large room. In the center of the room is a massive holographic projection of Theosoph lands. Veins of blue stretch throughout the entire thing and sometimes erupt onto the surface in massive blue crystal formations. Waving his hand the Baron says, "I'm glad you brought these, but as you can see I am already aware of the situation. Two years ago the Theosophs came to me for what I assume is the same reason they came to you. Once more their creations had run away from them. With the aid of the Bulgarian Tsar, and yes Othar Tryggvassen, I was able to contain it once more. In return they gave me copies of all their notes on the infestation. Over the previous years I have examined those notes. This is not some random creation made by unstable sparks. The Theosophs call it Imperium and it is the basis of all their works. They have deliberately designed it to be extremely fast growing and capable of converting anything it touches into itself. They use it as a source of highly concentrated energy and material for their other creations."
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Mountain King (PM)**

The Baron clenches his fist and glares at the map, "The truly infuriating thing is that the Theosophs didn't lose control of this Imperium. They have the technology to contain it, but they deliberately infected their entire nation with it in order to create a continual supply of the substance. And I admit they appear to have had plans to both escape into their flying cities to keep off the surface, and create a shield of devices to keep the Imperium contained inside their borders. But then they just left. Fled to France without considering what would happen to their containment devices with them there to maintain them."

"I thank you again for these notes, I will see if they contain new insights into the matter, but as you can no doubt see I will likely have to spend the next few years fixing this. It is also why I claimed this land, before some other nation did so and foolishly set this catastrophe waiting to happen loose into wider Europa. Tell your King that it is time for him to fulfill his end of the bargain and aid me in eradicating this threat."

The same jaeger general as Gunther normally meets with rides out to meet him. "Aye it iz chust like de goot old days yah. Dis Heterodyne iz lookink to be much more eksitink ten her fadder. Und it iz funny dat hyu schould mention dat. Ve remember hyu too. Ve hed zum goot times togedder, und in fact you tunnels helped us get her back. So ve vere chust about to send zumone to hyu to see if hyu'd like to join us on a goot old Jaeger ride. Noddink big chust a liddle birddday tour around Europa for our nev Heterodyne. First ve visit SCHpain for a nize varmup, den ve go north see Paris maybe take de Heterodyne schoppink, not mhenny gurl Heterodynes but dey tend to like dat, den ve visit de norddlunds und giff de Skuldinks a vurl, ve hear dey like a goot fight almost as much as us. Den de Heterodyne might be gettink tired so back to Mechanicsburg to end de party."
 * Jaergergenerals to the Mountain King**

Ve remember our deals. Hyu helped us in de past so now ve return de favor. Ve invite hyu to de birddday party uf de our nev Heterodyne. Ve're plannink a nize fun old time Jaeger ride. Noddink big chust schowink de highlights uf Europa to de nev Heterodyne. Dere vill be lots uf fun times for everybody. Und after ve hef zum fun hyu kan talk zum more serious schop vith de Heterodyne.
 * Jaergergenerals to the Birds of Prey**

Ve remember our deals. Hyu helped us in de past so now ve return de favor. Ve invite hyu to de birddday party uf de our nev Heterodyne. Ve're plannink a nize fun old time Jaeger ride. Noddink big chust schowink de highlights uf Europa to de nev Heterodyne. Dere vill be lots uf fun times for everybody. Und after ve hef zum fun hyu kan talk zum more serious schop vith de Heterodyne.
 * Jagergenerals to the Army of Othar Tryggvassen**

How large a quantity of water do you wish to convert? It may take us some time to build a device that can boil the Atlantic.
 * University of Celaenae to the Mountain King**

Normally I am not adverse to accepting the fealty of new provinces. However in this case I would be remiss if I didn't tell you that you would be called on to fulfill your end of that pledge almost immediatly. I am about to embark on a major project, and if you swore fealty to me now I would require you to deliver on your promise to aid me in my endeavors.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Princedom of Transylvania**

We are willing to offer you +- econ for your new sparks. That is not an effort to make a profit, but simply what it would cost us to recruit equivalent sparks on our own. There is a reason we are providing the sparks in this alliance after all. We are simply better at it than you are.
 * University of Celaenae to the Celestial Empire (PM)**

As for what we have been researching you may recall that we have been unable to research anything new since we were helping you impress the Ottomans. And then we had to rebuild the damage from the Skulding attack. We have had very little time to pursue our own research in the past few years. We have only managed to build a few simple emergency clanks, since there have been so very many emergencies. As for the other things you mentioned the military clanks are simply that, military clanks. And the military factories are simply refined production lines that let us assemble those clanks faster. And as for cloning, well that has helped us clone some of our most brilliant sparks, which is likely to be of no interest to you since you have already agreed to leave that to us.

You not asking us to cut into our savings you are asking to give you are factories and merchant ships. (Permanent econ is industrial capacity not money.) We are however willing to actually cut into our savings. We offer you ++ p. and +++++ +++++ t. econ. Fourty percent of our annual production and almost as much as you would get out of Corsica if you convinced them to join you now. Any more than that simple greed on your part. Remember we don't have to offer anything. We have done no rogue and in a year or two we expect that we could convince Corsica to join us regardless of your feelings on the matter. We are simply offering you this as a way to save face with your own people, and in recognition of the aid you have given Corsica in the past.
 * United Italian States to the Celestial Empire**

You gain - WO from your efforts at setting up a monster defense force in Corsica as it solidifies your reputation as a protector of the people.
 * To AoOT**

You also gain some influence with Corsica because your anti spark message lines up with the new anti spark sentiments there. I think you should probably remember though that one of the largest collection of Sparks in Europa is the University in Celaenae, and most people regard them as part of the Celestial Empire since that's where they are. At the very least harboring a major major spark university is a big black mark against them to the anti-sparkists.

Well first of all we are gearing up for a major first strike on the French. We understand that your army is not your strong suite, but anything you can provide on that front would be helpful.
 * Spain to the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun**

As for a conference this is a war not a diplomatic event. We aren't planning to talk about France we're planning to strike, and even if talking would help diplomats conferences tend to take far far longer than is feasible during a war. Ask the other countries if they will agree to unify their commands under Spain if you wish, but leave conferences for deciding what to do with France after the war.

You have ++ of growth.
 * To the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun**

We can begin clank production if you supply the resources, and we'll looking into improving the military models.
 * University of Celaenae to the Celestial Empire**

We can also work on the Bulgarian device. Especially in light the news about the monster attacks. Just get us a sample and we'll try to reverse engineer it.

If you wish to make a sweep of the university we are more than happy to let you. After all we have been relying on you to protect us from such intrusions and we'd be remiss in denying you the ability to keep doing so.

OOC: Yes.

The clanks are military and the factories boost military production of the clanks.

I do not care what you do with corpses. Your are free to research as you please and create as you please when I do not require your services. My only condition is that you do not let your creations run amuck.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Princedom of Transylvania**

The Celts in Exile send a representative to see what you suggest. Germania simply directs your messenger towards the Kaiser's Guard.
 * To the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun**

The attack will happen next update.

Well we are already marshaling to hit France so if you're going to participate in the first strike you better get your troops across the channel quickly.
 * The Celts in Exile to the Irish-Celtic Clansmen**

Your scouts in the tunnels report that the way is clear, and that nothing lies in ambush. They do note signs that someone was in the area recently, but that's not surprising given that the Skulding were seen in Theosoph lands, which is also where the Loki's Brigade is stationed.
 * To Mountain King**

The Celestial's agents, with a small contribution from Transylvania, are incredibly succesful. They manage to infiltrate the Loki's Brigade and disable the entire airship fleet without the Loki's Brigade realizing what happened. And while the pirate crews were trying to repair the mysterious breakdowns the Transylvanian airfleet swooped down among them. Unable to fight back the Loki's Brigade had no choice, but to surrender. Especially as Mountain King forces seized their ground assets. However the coalition is now left with a bit of a dilemma. The Loki's Brigade is a nation built on the basis of mobility accept for +++ econ on the ground everything they have is built into or on their airships. And the Loki's Brigade ships were only disabled not destroyed. The pirates surrendered because they had to not because they were beaten into submission. Essentially you're holding their entire nation prisoner. But it is a nation not fragmented groups left over from the Brigade being torn apart by war.
 * To Mountain King, Celestial Empire, and Translvania**


 * OOC**: To be honest I expected you guys to disable a bit of their military and then beat them to a pulp. I just wasn't expecting just how much the Celestial would apply. With nothing left on their side and the repeated instructions for mercy there wasn't any way for battle to go forward and casualties to happen. And with no casualties there wasn't any reason to drop the Loki's Brigade morale, which is still decent and so not likely to lead to wholesale surrender, but rather a sullen surrender and low key defiance with what few means they have left that aren't under guard. You did gain the +++ econ that wasn't on their airships though, and on the positive side no casualties on your side either.

Also I couldn't just kill a PC without them even getting a response. Even in destruction I think that a PC should always have a chance to flee with a tiny splinter faction composed of what was left. The University of Celaenae did when they were still Algeria. They might not have enough left to actually do anything, and they may decide to just call it a game, but they should at least have the option. And the way things worked out there wasn't any way for that to happen either.

Just like the Skulding warned, the Mountain King, Celestial Empire, and Transylvania have all attacked you. However rather than a straight fight they instead opted for subtlety. Almost simultaneously all your airships were disabled by sabotage and mysterious accidents. Shortly afterwards a Transylvanian air fleet descended on your drifting fleet, and a force of Mountain King tunnelers seized all your ground assets. Faced with no choice but surrender since none of their weapons worked all your crews have surrendered to the coalition. However this is not the end. Except for the +++ of ground assets that were seized the rest of your nation is still on board your airships and none of them were actually destroyed. Surreptitious repairs are already being performed. And many pirate captains are calling for trying to escape the coalition as soon as possible and meet up with the Skulding. And then maybe get some payback. Also while your other assets are all under guard and restricted your offensive espionage is still in the open and able to operate freely.
 * To the Loki Brigade**

Turn 12
We will take your concerns into consideration
 * Celts in Exile to the Kaiser's Guard**

OOC: You do realize there was no Holy Roman Empire in this setting. I assume your arguments are translating into proper setting relevant ideas. But you do have to remember that as much as it seems like this is Europe of the 1800s it isn't. It has its own history entirely.
 * Germania to the Kaiser's Guard**

IC: This is precisely what we were advocating. To use this war to solidify our power. It simply seemed to us that you were attempting to ride Spain's coattails rather than assert our rightful place.

We will talk to Italy, but we believe that they are still too divided to commit one way or another.

We are of course eager to renew our friendship with you. However we do not see that you can pick up where the Ottomans left off, because they never did. The Ottoman sparks are still continuing their project on the Trans Siberian clankway just as before, and as far as we can tell they are still in contact with their superiors. Nothing has changed in their endeavors as far as we can tell. And to be frank your own country is somewhat lacking in the sparks necessary to aid us in this.
 * Russia to the Celestial Empire [PM]**

Our weather reports indicate nothing is amiss. And your expedition does not appear to be having any problems. Of course our own security forces did spot some unknown spies that didn't match any of the known agents from the countries we have alliances with. And so of course they were deterred. Are you admitting they were yours? Perhaps if you had not broken off our espionage alliance so unilaterally then our forces would have been able to identify them properly and this would not have happened. Or perhaps it would have, the Tsar dislikes foreign agents having access to Russian territories without supervision, allied or not.

We are really not interested in the happenings of Western Europa. We have enough to concern ourselves with in the East.

OOC: If you didn't notice breaking your espionage alliance and then sending spies in directly afterwards did not go over well. Regardless of the actual reasons you might have had you didn't share them with Russia first. And that's the sort of thing that's usually a prelude to attack or betrayal. It didn't cost you any influence or anything the Russians just had it blocked.

You are asking us to get involved in politics. And we will not do so. Our presence in Corsica is strictly limited to supporting our priests and providing aid to those in need.
 * Knights Hospitallers to the Celestial Empire**

And in regards to France and Spain we don't see any reason to support the French. Our relations with Spain have always been fairly good as they are a staunch supporter of the faith. And we see no reason to pursue the lands they control in Algeria. We did not attack the Theocracy of Algeria because we were interested in conquest, but rather because they were very obviously godless heathen in direct opposition to the faith.

Our advice to you in consideration of our friendship is to simply look elsewhere. The other Italian factions are rather set on a full unification of the city states. And Corsica is the obvious starting place for that goal since it is still independent and would not necessitate going against the other super powers just yet. Only the Progressives are not pushing for integrating it into the union, and we believe that is only because they have other plans. Additionally the main proponents of the Corsican situation are the Northern and Southern factions. For them it is not simply a matter of national pride, but also political power. In the last vote they ended up controlling the weaker government ministries. Which means that over time we and the Progressives will gain the upper hand. But for now their political power is still strong, so to prevent a decline they have staked their political future on the integration of Corsica into the Union. As such they must integrate Corsica or show weakness that will likely lead to their downfall. And as long as they have the Centrists supporting them as well they control the council and thus Italy's stance on the matter.
 * United Italian States to the Celestial Empire**
 * The Birds of Prey**

You are incorrect Corsica is most definitely in ruins not only because of the clank attacks, but also because of the civil war, which can be directly traced to your meddling in what should have been an internal Italian matter. Even if what you say is true and you have their best interests in mind, then surely you can see that they would benefit much more from integration with their brethren and close neighbors than your own far away empire made up of people who aren't even Italians. As such we insist that you leave it to us. We are prepared to offer you some small concessions in the form of trade agreements as such, but as we have done nothing wrong we see no need to offer reparations.
 * Full Council**

As for France and Spain it is true that they have both absorbed city states, and yes in time we will get to them. However we do not know why you are bringing the Corsairs into this. They are mercenaries through and through. They are barely even Italian consisting mostly of various groups of reformed pirates. As such we see no reason to favor France over Spain. It is our own position to simply see what develops. After all if one side begins to suffer in the coming war it will likely be easy enough to regain our brethren from them in return to aid. And we will be in a much stronger position if we wait for them to weaken than to throw in our lot with one or the other now.

We will require at least +++++ t. econ to begin installation of the network. Coverage equal to that under your own territories will cost twice that.
 * Bulgarian Empire to the Celestial Empire**

We will see what we will see.
 * England to the Celestial Empire**

There are no leaders of Corsica anymore. Your own supporters agree to it of course. But the Italian Nationalist faction won't even talk to you. The supporters of the Knights aren't really leaders so much as various groups of the common people who have converted.
 * Corsica to the Celestial Empire**

What kidnapping? No, none of our sparks were harmed. However the Skulding attack did somewhat hamper our production capabilities. We would of course be happy to develop new weapons for you. But if you could help us recover we would better be able to produce armaments and defenses for you.
 * University of Celaenae to the Celestial Empire [PM]**

We do have technologies that can help identify and recruit new sparks, however we wonder why you want it. It was our understanding that you would come to us for all your sparky needs in return for protecting us and providing us a new home. In fact we were just about to ask if your own sparks wouldn't rather work for us in our superbly appointed labs. Perhaps as part of the deal for the weapons you have already asked for.

We will send a representative to see what this project is. However we are unsure of how much we will be able to commit to any projects. Between rebuilding efforts and commitments to other allies we are already stretched thin.
 * University of Celaenae to the Princedom of Transylvania**

Unfortunately with the situation between France and Spain heating up most of our forces must remain at home, however in light of our past friendship we can divert a small force to use in helping you. We can't however provide any eyes and ears to help you. We lost control of those assets during the unification.
 * Birds of Prey to the Mountain King**

We are of course willing to help you safeguard the tunnels. Send us the plans of whatever it is that you have developed and we will help you manufacture them.
 * Bulgarian Empire to te Mountain King**

Your teams begin laying the devices without any problems. However as they begin to reach the tunnels under the former Wild Woods they begin to report back on some discoveries that they are making. Several of the tunnels appear to have been filled with water. Without diving gear they can't check out what exactly happened, but after consulting their maps the engineers report that the most likely scenario is that the Skulding must have breached the barriers between the Big Dig tunnels and the Baltic then used the new water ways to quickly traverse the tunnels. This would also mean that the Skulding longships are even more versatile than they've shown so far. Capable of travel both on land, sea, and submerged in the water filled tunnels.
 * Mountain King**

Also you'll gain some espionage once the EoT rolls around.

The Transylvanians should have told you what we told the previous year's coalition. We have done our part in defeating the Skulding. For years they were weak and vulnerable after the crushing defeat our glorious navy inflicted upon them in Molvia. But only once they regained their strength did anyone think to oppose them. Well we were never in danger from the Skulding. They would never dare to attack the lands of the Queen. We only gave our aid before in hopes that the nations of Europa would take advantage of the oppurtunity. Since that oppurtunity was squandered we see no reason to help you again.
 * England to the Mountain King**

We will take up this investigation, but our time is limited and valuable. We require that both parties agree to compensate us for it regardless of the outcome.
 * France and Spain to the Mountain King and the Glorious Army of Othar Tryggvassen (Seperately, but the content is similiar enough to be identical)**

Since you seem to be worried about the Glorious Army I will tell you why I am pleased. And why I personally believe you must have been tricked with this slaver wasp evidence. I am the Architect. The Glorious Army are an emergency contigency to be activated in the event of my death and the appearence of some major threat to Europa as a whole. Obviously my absence and the Other War were enough to meet these criteria. At first I was afraid that they had gone rogue upon my return. There programming has obviously become massively warped, but they are still fulfilling their primary function. Which is to deal with widespread rogue spark experiments that threaten the well being of Europa. In hind sight their extension of the extermination orders to sparks as well becomes obvious and logical. In time I will likely have to deal with them. But for now they are still somewhat helpful in containing incidents and there are too many rogue constructs in Europa to waste time dealing with them at the moment. If they were still harming human outposts as my agents report they did aa decade ago then it would be a different matter, but like I said Othar, madmen though he is, does appear to be doing an adequate job of keeping them in check. And of course I know full well what the Wild Woods used to hold. Don't forget where my ancestral estates are. But since the Swartzwalders themselves do not appear to mind the propaganda that is being spread about them then I will not take it upon myself to correct the people of Europa. It creates a favorable climate for organizing forces against other less benign constructs. And if some fool takes it upon themself to go after the Swartzwalders. Heh well then they can take care of themselves.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Mountain King (PM) (Not Transylvania)**

OOC: You could get a reduced cost, but I feel that I should remind of what you got out of them in the first place. A lot of your mil isn't soldiers so much as it is the increased tactical options given by having the tunnels. Destroying them would also reduce those options.

I fully intend to patrol those tunnels. However as for the Skulding themselves I am inclined to leave them for now. Oh in time yes I will need to deal with them. But to be perfectly candid the more ravaged other countries are either by humans or by rogue creations. The more likely they are to accept my help peacefully as my forces reach them. If I simply aid any and all who are being threatened then they wouldn't feel the need to pledge fealty, because they would feel safe in the knowledge that someone else would be cleaning up their messes for them. Over time this would lead to more chaos than if I left them to their own devices as it would simply encourages them to be more reckless. As it is any nation who remains independent will either be wise enough to guard itself or simply have to accept the natural consequences of their actions. Whether that be letting their sparks experiment without restraint, or leaving exploitable gaps in their defenses. It is simply the natural path that nations take.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Mountain King and the Princedom of Transylvania (PM)**

We can promise you some support and the aid of our armies if it comes to that. However we doubt it will be a major issue. Natural defenses or not the combined armies of your forces and Germania proper constitute a substantial shield. One that would require the bulk of France's forces to fight. If they pulled enough of their forces away to fight you then it would be a simple matter for our own armies to sweep in from our own border. Similarly we cannot in fact offer you too much without weakening our own lines, although if it comes to battle we will do what we can.
 * Spain to the Kaiser's Guard**

We think you misunderstand our purpose. We have never attempted to undermine King Grimwald's authority. In fact most of our negotiations have been with Grimwald himself. What contact we have had with the common people has simply been to reassure them of that very fact. We simply wish for Germania's aid in freeing Ireland from the grip of England. Once that is done it is in fact our own goal to leave the continent and return to our homeland. We are in exile after and have no wish to remain so. And when we do we fully intend to hand our current territories over to Grimwald. Which would leave Germania even more unified and strengthened than before not less. Especially if we manage to gain the factories of Spain.
 * Celts in Exile to Kaiser's Guard**

Perhaps what you say is true. And perhaps if we were still undivived we would indeed need to worry, but we are not. Germania and the Kasier's Guard together are the equal of any superpowers. We can understand that other nations of Europa might not recognize that yet. After all we still appear to be divided. But we did not think you would have failed to grasp our combined power yet. Oh we might not be the most powerful of the superpowers. But we are still an equal. We should not be thinking of which power to support in order to gain favor with a more powerful ally, but rather what power to approach as a true partner. That is how we should approach this conflict. Not as the oppurtunity to gain the power to defend ourselves, for we already have that, but as an oppurtunity to show the rest of Europa that we do have that power.
 * Germania to Kaiser's Guard (PM)**

In the meantime however we do believe you need to take a second look at the oozes. Simple monsters they might be, but not random. My own sparks have identified them as the same oozes that attacked two years ago. Your forces seemed to have eradicated them then, but they have returned and in considerably larger numbers. And what's more whereas other monsters seem to ebb away these oozes are still here and still ravaging our cities.

We will relay your message and welcome your support.
 * Spain to the Kaiser's Guard**

We are discussing your proposal with our kinsmen in Ireland. We will get back to you.
 * Celts in Exile to Kaiser's Guard**

We are indeed watching the developing situation, but our main concern is currently the Mediterranean and Corsica's fracture. We of course have plans in place should the conflict erupt, but for obvious reasons we decline to share such contingencies with a foreign power we have no relations with.
 * United Italian States to Kaiser's Guard**

We certainly agree that this situation needs to be monitored with extreme care. However we have two points. First why have you labeled France as the belligerent in this case. Certainly their mercantile empire is expansionistic and powerful, but we have seen no signs that they wish us harm. And second we feel tat that the current situation with the oozes is slightly more urgent than any potential foreign conflict.
 * Germania to Kaiser's Guard (PM)**

No ve are busy. Maybe later ve kan talk.
 * Jägersmonsters to the Princedom of Transylvania (in Estonia)**

We are in fact planning to reinforce Corsica openly and immediately. Given that and its chaotic nature that would mean any potential plunder is already gone or heavily guarded our analysts doubt that Corsica will be targeted. And given the UIS is obviously not going to be targeted either we see no reason to help you. Say what you will about the Skulding's methods and cruelty, but they are at the very least very predictable. We see no reason to waste our soldiers destroying them when simply placing sufficient defenses is enough to deter them. Especially as the brewing Spanish-French conflict is likely to require all our efforts given the presence of both sides in annexed Italian provinces.
 * United Italian States to the Princedom of Transylvania (in Estonia)**

We will send an emissary to Constantinople to discuss our current relations.
 * Russia to the Celestial Empire**

We are simply undertaking our god given duty to bring the light to people who unfortunately fallen into darkness. We see no reason that our priests preaching only what is true and holy would conflict with anyone. Unless of course you belong to some heathen religion, but while we admit that our records of recent events are spotty they indicate that like us you are a christian state.
 * Knights Hospitallers to the Celestial Empire**

We will do our utmost to keep your investment safe. However we are not above adding extra security. Even we cannot guarantee complete safety when conflict with another superpower becomes a possibility. Of course we don't expect you to do so for free. We are willing to double your interest rates if you choose to enter into a defensive alliance with us, and of course assuming you are willing to retain us as your bank of choice.
 * France to the Celestial Empire**

We wish to know why you are interfering with Corsica. They are Italian, we are Italian, they have a right to join us and claim their birthright. To take back the glory that was lost with Rome. And you are keeping them from it. Do not attempt to deny it. We thought it strange that they did not join with the remaining independent states, and now we have confirmed it. You are the ones who persuaded them to do so. And look how that resulted for Corsica, a once prosperous state in ruins. Tell us why we shouldn't simply throw you out of Corsica in retaliation for what your advice has led them to.
 * United Italian States to the Celestial Empire**

We have already tracked the Hive leaving our territory.And while we agree that leaving it to terrorize other countries is a horrible thought we are simply stretched too thin to be able to deal with it the moment. We had a chance to study it while it was being held dormant and our analysis is that it would take a significant military force to destroy it. One we cannot spare. Other methods to contain it are of course possible, but again we already invested in improving our monster suppressant technology to spare anything to dealing with the Hive specifically. We are confident that if it encroaches on one of the countries we have warded we will be able to place it into dormancy once more, but until then we regret that there is little we can do. We have however informed Baron Wulfenbach as he has shown a penchant for dealing with such rogue threats. You may wish to contact him if you are still interested in containing the Hive.
 * Bulgarian Empire to Celestial Empire**

On a more positive note we are of course more than happy to provide our technology to ward Corsica if you are willing to pay for the costs. That has been our main issue, investing enough to construct the devices. Of course you will also have to convince Corsica to accept them. We will not place our devices in a country that doesn't want them.

Your agents continue to close holes and chase down enemy agents. (You'll gain more espionage when the EoT actually happens.) They have a few things to report about the infiltrators recent activity. It seems that the infiltrators were letting their networks idle in the past few years, which is one of the reasons your agents even spotted it, content to simply absorb information with no further investment. However once they noticed that their network had been identified and was under attack they began rebuilding it. So your agents have been able to pin down exactly who has been sending these agents. However your agents are making progress and are confident that they'll be able to clear out the foreign networks fully within a couple of years. So long as nothing else crops up to impede them. They have also investigated your suspicions of treachery on the part of your allies, and report that as far as they can tell the foreign agents do not belong to the University, the GaOt, or Russia.
 * To Celestial Empire**

Yes its 8.

You have enough influence to annex the portion of Corsica claimed by the faction that supports you now if you want to.

Also your troops note that Italy has also sent an equivalent number of troops to keep the peace. The knights are maintaining their presence with priests and humanitarian missions to distribute supplies to those hurt in the monster attacks.

Your agents are barely able to even locate the Skulding raiding fleet and when they do the Skulding quickly identify them and literally kick the agents out of their ships with a warning not to come back. Apparently the Skulding took the lesson they learned from having their assets stolen out from under them to heart and have massively increased the internal counter espionage defenses of their raiding fleet.
 * To KoBS**

Your agents are also sent back with a personal message from High Chieftain Gunnarr Völund explaining that they currently don't plan to attack you since the last time they tried that Spain was quick to defend you, but that if you keep annoying them they're perfectly willing to change their minds.

I do not care what you may or may not have done with the Wild Woods. That was before you pledged your fealty to me, and my policy is that once you have done so the slate is wiped clean. However I will hold you accountable for anything you do after that point. I did not interfere with your tunnel system, because you appeared to have things under control. But apparently you did not. I am dissapointed by that lack not just by your failure, but by the fact that you did not acknowledge the possibility of that failure. My men have been in those tunnels, I know how extensive they are. And you should know how difficult they are to guard even better than I. If you had any inclination that you would be unable to guard them you should have come to me, and I would have lent you my aid in doing so.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Mountain King**

As for the Army of the Architect. I am in fact pleased with their behavior. Not with their accusations of you of course, but my agents report they have been very helpful in cleaning up the threats of rogue monsters in recent year. As much as I dislike the man Othar does appear to have gotten them under control and returned them to their original programming. If they do choose to attack then I will deal with them. Just as I would deal with any others that threaten my vassals. In the meantime I suggest you contact Spain, France, and perhaps Molvia to investigate this matter. Not only do none of them have any reason to take sides, but Spain and France's hatred for each other will work to keep them honest.

OOC: Also for the record since you didn't send an EoT in you didn't actually have any patrols. No EoT means your nation does nothing for a turn.

Turn 10
After nearly a decade of low key the Celts in Exile and Kingdom of Delun have announced their intention of forming a long term alliance to better support both of their long term goals. Although no goals were stated outright one of them is obviously the expulsion of England from Ireland and the world is watching tensely to see if there is any form of English response.
 * The Continental Celts**

Further to the east the kingdoms of Hessen Thuringia and Mecklenberg have announced their unification. King Grimwald will take up the mantle of Kaiser while King Johann will be stepping down and taking over the command of Hessen Thuringia's former army which has been redesignated the Kaiser's Guard and given the duty of protecting the German people.
 * Germania**

Baron Wulfenbach, returned after a long absence to much rejoicing among the older generation who remember his exploits with the Heterodyne brothers, has announced today his formal acceptance of the fealty of the Mountain King. He declares that the Mountain King's lands are now under his protection and that an act of war against one will be an act of war against them both.
 * Baron Wulfenbach**

In response to Spanish and French encroachments on their fellow city states, and the ultimate division of the pennisula into simple provinces of the two super powers the remaining city states have announced their decision to unify into a body capable of standing up to the other powers. Reports are that due to rapidness of the unification the Italian government is still much divided and bickering amongst itself. Surprisingly Corsica has declined to join with its fellow city states in the unification.
 * Italy**

Reports of strange activity on the isles increases as now not only the people but the very towns and cities themselves have vanished leaving only a set of forlorn docks behind. In an even more eerie twist the trade routes have not only continued but gotten even more profitable for those merchants brave enough to dare the ghostly ports as the strange method of trade has started paying more for various goods mostly raw materials such as metal and wood.
 * England**

Once again the constant and unending waves of rogue creations have plagued the countries of Europa. At this point most of the citizens of Europa find this unsurprising. And the defenses of many a country have held strong against the monsters. There are however a few cases of note. The modified bird saboteurs that plagued the Holy Privateers once before have returned. And their efforts have been unimpeded by the Privateers who were focused on helping their Transylvanian allies. Thus the fleet has suffered minor, but rather irritating amounts of damage. Bulgaria has continued its selfless acts and through the use of a combination of its specially trained monster handlers and envoys has managed to turn the tide of monsters in both itself and Molvia-Hultz once more. In the Celestial Empire the Russian army has again protected the main countryside from attack, but the often overlooked university of Manisa has suffered the repeated depredations of giant exploding moles. On the shores of the Atlantic great misshapen whales have surged onto shore and ruined many of the fishing boats of the Celts in Exile. And in Germania a fierce onslaught of both carnivorous snails and glowing oozes has put the newly formed Kaiser's Guard to the test, but one which they succeeded.
 * The Monstrous Hordes**

Holy Privateers lose + morale. University of Manisa loses + morale. Celts in Exile lose + morale.

Much has been accomplished in the various nations Eastern Europa. Transylvania and its allies stand victorious over the undead creatures. The Mountain King with substantial aid from Baron Wulfenbach has cleansed its streets of zombies and the tunnels of rogue clanks. And in a joint announcement Tsar Petrov and Baron Wulfenbach announce that they have advanced far in their efforts to purify the tainted lands of the former Commonwealth, and will soon be opening it up to limited recolonization.
 * Eastern Europa**

The clank hive after its unsuccessful efforts in Heterodyne lands flew south into the Bulgarian Empire. There it was met by expert clank programmers who were able to temporarily disable it while it was decided what to do with the rather sophisticated albeit rather annoying clanks.
 * The Hive**

Across the Mediterranean the Knights Hospitallers have consolidated their hold over the former Algerian people. The former minions had been mourning the loss of their spark priests, but when the Knights dispatched the skeletal giants moving west from the abandoned Skulding camp the people realized that quite frankly the Theocracy had never actually done anything like that for them, and quickly fell into line behind the Knights.
 * Algeria**

I thank you for your contribution. It will help in cleansing this blight.
 * Russia to Transylvania**

Tsar Petrov

So are you actually transferring the econ, or keeping the econ and sending them temporary econ each turn on a permanent basis. There is a difference even if the end result is the same.
 * To Transylvania**

Yes it would probably solve the problem, at least for you it would still actually be growing. However you would forfeit some of them normal growth those things give as instead of careful planned building you'd just be packing everything on board. Also I did not suggest that three of them would work. I told you that two would fit your people, but that your other stuff would still be vulnerable. Even three won't actually hold everything, but it will get everything in immediate danger out of the way giving you time to pack everything else up without complications.
 * To Theosophs**

And if you used everything you had then as it stands now you'd be able to finish the second and get a good way into the third.

Turn 9
I will consider it, however my own forces will likely be tied up aiding the Mountain King with his problems. I doubt I would have enough forces available to guard beyond my own borders.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Theosophs**

Baron Klaus Wulfenbach

That is indeed a concern. Fortunately I will be working closely with the Mountain King in the future so I should be able to contain the creature should it spread beyond Transylvania. Most of my forces are already committed to aiding the Mountain King with his problems. But if I have anything left over I will send it you. I know that is a rather cold answer, but I cannot cover all the problems of Europa with the forces I have available. I must first deal with my own borders and the problems of those pledged to serve me.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Princedom of Transylvania**

Baron Klaus Wulfenbach

Not satisfied with dealing with just one of the Europas many dark fleets the gallant adventurer moved on to the nearby land of the Theosophs where the despicable Loki Brigade had taken refuge in recent years. Aided by his new clank compatriots Othar stealthily made his way on board the fleet. In a feet of legendary stealth Othar slipped past countless pirate crewmen until he made his way into the dark heart of the fleet. The labs of the notorious pirate sparks. Unlike many of his foes these Othar had a personal grudge against. For these very sparks had helped the many pirate captains subjugate his own Norwegian compatriots. But now was the time for justice. And so it was. In viscous battle Othar engaged the piratical sparks and after a short but brutal struggle defeated them and ensured that they would never be able to threaten his beloved homeland again.
 * Othar Tryggvassen and the Sky Pirates**

In the coming months the news of their defeat spread throughout Europa. And there was considerable rejoicing and praise of Othar as the people realized that sparks who had helped spread so much fear were now dead. Surprisingly this also helped raise the esteem of the Holy Privateers themselves as the damage to their ability to raid combined with the hopefully restraining influence of the Theosophs convinced many that had been skeptical that they truly intended to give up raiding. After all before it had been just words, now they had little choice. And while the pirate crews themselves were initially shocked and dismayed by the loss of their sparks the new found ability to visit Europan towns freely and without rotten vegetable bombardments quickly boosted their spirits.

Holy Privateers lose +++ spark. Holy Privateers gain + WO, +- Morale

You will need at least one or two more cities. Or lose a whole bunch of population.
 * To Theosophs**

And what problems might those be.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Theosophs**

My points were not superstition. The resurrection of the dead has its place. However it is quite obvious that what is happening in your country is not a careful controlled experiment, but something that has broken free and gotten entirely out of hand. Which is the mark of a spark who if not evil is at least far too careless.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Princedom of Transylvania**

On the topic of the Darkling Fog I have already been in discussion with the Russians. If you wish to help then you may do so. But I suggest putting your own affairs in order first.

Baron Wulfenbach

My sparks are already working on this problem. Of course if you wished to lend your aid you would not be denied.
 * Russia to the Princedom of Transylvania**

Tsar Varfolomei Petrov

2. No Baron Wulfenbach is the main VIP of House Wulfenbach. His stats are only seperate for viewing purposes. Othar Trygvassen is not one of your VIPs. If anything the amount of closeness required for perfect coordination would require him to fully direct your actions. 3. You're not getting in WO from the Mountain King's acknowledgement. Partly because the Mountain Kings hatred wasn't affecting your WO down in the first place. And partly because the Mountain King itself is under something of a black cloud at the moment.
 * To GAoOT**

Your agents confirm what the witnesses said. The zombies definitely are not part of the horde that invaded Italy. Or ones that came directly from Algeria and bypassed Italy. They spontaneously appeared. All at once several dozen people simply died and then a few hours later came back to life as zombies. Everything about them matches the characteristics of the other zombies they simply aren't the same ones. And since you don't have any spark to study either them or when you dealt with the ones in Italy all you know is their basic behavior and what tactics are most effective. Not what actually causes it.
 * Zombies**

Baron Wulfenbach to the Mountain King Very good, I will first help you deal with your own problems with the zombies and the rogue digging machines. I am also working with Russia on the Darkling problem. After those are taken care of we will discuss in more detail what aid I will require from you in the rest of Europa.

Baron Klaus Wulfenbach

We have made all the arrangements on our end. Are you ready to begin the unification of the new Teutonic Empire.
 * Mecklenberg to Hessen Thuringia**

The baron and House Wulfenbach's stats are combined. I specifically mentioned this in the OOC thread.
 * OOC:**

We are interested in this proposal. We will discuss it amongst ourselves, but we too have noticed the gradual allegiance of our fellows to the greater powers. So we and our people will most likely agree. We will start planning a new government immediatly.
 * Italian City States to Birds of Prey**

OOC: So what's going to happen is this is going to be the quicker more risky unification you may remember me mentioning in the OOC thread earlier. Essentially the Birds of Prey will be gone as an independent entity and so will the city states. Instead there will be Italy as a conglomeration of everyone. You will control one political party and so will each of them, with various levels of power based on what they brought to the table. Which means you'll be the strongest party, but there will be a lot more of them. You will then vie to direct Italy's actions. If you manage to gain a majority Italy will do pretty much what you say. Otherwise your EoT actions will be suggestions that influence Italy's actions. Your goal is to solidify your power and gain full control of Italy. But the City states will be working towards the same goal. They will also be more individualized than they are now so that the political fight is actually interesting and has more sides rather than just you against the combined city states.

Because this wasn't happening on this scale earlier. It only started bringing everything back to life this turn.
 * To Transylvania**

You can say what you like, but your actions do not agree. In the past few years my agents say you have participated in many of the worst attacks by raiders and opportunistic lords. Your very land is afflicted by an unnatural affliction. And while I might not particularly agree with Othar on certain matters he does tend to go after the worst of us. You may say that you have been helping to fight monsters, but my agents report that every time you did so you harvested the corpses of those your soldiers killed for your own use. So as I said there will be peace for now, but if you do not mend your ways we must eventually fight. It is inevitable.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to Princedom of Transylvania**

Baron Klaus Wulfenbach

Well what did you have in mind when you first approached me.
 * Russia to the Princedom of Transylvania**

Tsar Varfolomei Petrov

Which northwest valley though. It needs to be specific. If you don't have anywhere in mind I'm just going to mark down that thin sliver that would normally be part of Molvia next to the border with the Birds of Prey on the map.
 * To Holy Privateers and Theosophs**

I am not new here, but rather returned after a long absence. And somewhat frustrated to find Europa in the state of chaos that it is in. I plan to rectify this matter and both clean out the many monsters that inhabit the land and bring order to the chaos one territory at a time.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Theosophs**

Baron Klaus Wulfenbach

Yes we already do this internally. In fact we think you will find that most countries that are successful economically do. The problem with spreading it beyond our own borders is the logistics of international trade and ensuring that the economic gain is not lost in tariffs and the costs of transportation. Tariffs can be lowered, but the transportation problem is more difficult. How do you propose to solve this.
 * Bulgarian Empire to Theosophs**

And as ever the hordes of rogue creations continue to roam Europa undettered by such things as politics or the recent Russian victories. There only thought to fulfill the twisted commands given to them by their now long dead sparky creators. High in the clouds flocks of mutated construct seagulls have taken up residence in the airships of the Holy Privateers. At first they seemed more a nuisance than anything else, but then they started exploding. It took extensive work by the privateers to clear them out. On the farms of Estonia giant moles mutated both by contact with the Darkling fog and the Transylvanians own sparky research terrorized farms all throughout the land until the undead soldiers of the Prince managed to drive them out. In Greece the mutated sea beasts have once again hopped, crawled, and slithered out of the Mediterranean only to be once again driven off by the Greek Phalanxes. This time however the sea beasts were not satisfied with just one attempt, but moved east to land on the Italian peninsula. Where fortunately for the Italian the armies of the Birds of Prey maintained a constant and effective vigil preventing any calamities. In the land of the Theosophs mutated beasts with strange crystal growths lurched out of the mountains, but were quickly destroyed by Theosoph troops. In the Celestial Empire great swarms of giant insects burst from the growth and began terrorizing the countryside. But fortunately a Bulgarian envoy happened to be on hand to quickly quell part of the swarm. And the remainder was destroyed by the elite Russian units of the Third Army of the Wall. A strange mechanical monstrosity arose in the countryside of France. With parts whirring and steam engines venting it made its way towards Paris destroying all in its path, but fortunately Swiss clock masters were able to swiftly freeze it time. The French are now using it as a tourist attraction. The Ottomans were not so lucky. The swarm of insects that attacked the Celestial Empire proved to be only part of the swarm. The rest moved west to terrorize the Ottomans, and despite the best efforts of the Ottoman soldiers were able to destroy many farms and villages. In almost a repeat of last years incident a host of behemoths smashed over the Bulgarian border and were quickly subdued by Bulgarian envoys. Despite the lack of damage the Bulgarian Tsar is seeking information on where these behemoths keep coming from. Beleaguered Molvia-Hultz long the site of countless battles and attacks was once more the target of misfortune as a flock of giant bats descended on their towns. Fortunately for the battered villagers Duke Kraemer had recently signed an agreement with the Bulgarian Tsar and Bulgarian monster tamers were on hand to subdue the flock.
 * The Monster Hordes**

Ottoman loses + morale. Everyone else was more or less protected. Although in a few cases some losses were distributed to your military training or efforts at improving your peoples happiness as recruits were sent to the front and the people realized how close they came to being attacked.
 * Unlucky Lottery**

Once thought to have been completely eradicated the zombies that once plagued Algeria and Italy have once more returned to the lands of the unliving. This time in the far off lands of the Mountain King. No one is quite sure how they got there. Eye witnesses report that people just fell down dead and started rising again as zombies. Fortunately while the armies of the Mountain King were busy dealing with the Darklings numerous volunteers arrived by airship to help the well regarded country contain the problem. At least for the moment.
 * The Zombies Hordes Strike Again**

There are strange and eerie reports coming from Transylvania. They say that nothing can stay dead there. Anything that has died will quickly revive and after a bit of random wandering sets off to some unknown destination. This unnatural occurrence has frightened the Estonians, and even more disturbingly constructs are beginning to vanish from the Transylvanian army, which uses an unusually high number of revived soldiers.
 * The Land with no Death**

Transylvania loses + morale and + mil.

Your agents track the corpses to a cave in the mountains. They can see huge numbers of undead, both human and animal, entering the cave. They are waiting for further orders.
 * To Transylvania**

In recent years the reports of minor earthquakes has been on the rise in Europa. Farmers are reporting huge mounds appearing in their fields like giant mole tracks. Miners have heard disturbing sounds from the depths of the earth. And the cause has finally come to light. Large digging clanks have broken through the surface all over Europa. These long wormlike things have apparently been laying a vast set of tunnels throughout Europa. And unlike many of the recent rogue creations which can't be tracked down all of these machines bear the sigil of the Mountain King.
 * The Ground Trembles**

Mountain King loses + WO.

Flying out of the ravaged lands of the Commonwealth the clank hive has encountered its first real resistance. Attempting to gather resources in the lands of the Heterodynes the hive was met by grinning Jaegers. Eager for a real fight after so long the Jaegers tore into the flying clanks whenever they got close enough to ground. Even the primitive instincts of the hive quickly came to the conclusion that the Heterodyne lands were a poor spot to try and gather resources from. And so trailing many smoking clanks the hive made its way further south.
 * The Hive**

Striding out of the ruined Skulding base camp and into Algeria proper came massive skeletal things. With parts scavenged from both machines and corpses scavenger reports say that they look like spindly giants. Whatever they are the abominable things began to gather up more machines and people to further improve themselves.
 * Ruins of Algeria**

Knights Hospitallers lose + morale.

Greetings Citizens of Europa You may have noticed by now that we Bulgarians been engaged in thwarting the recent surge in monster populations. However we cannot do it alone. Our efforts to combat them have been fruitful, but they could be ever much more so with additional resources. We ask that you help us in our efforts. And if you wish to know what benefit this would bring you. Well simply look to the Celestial Empire and Molvia-Hultz through our efforts they have been spared the effects of the monster hordes that attempted to terrorize their land. We do not ask for profit or gain for ourselves. Even without your help we would eventually cover Europa in our Envoys and suppressor squads. We simply ask that you aid us in extending our coverage more quickly.
 * Bulgarian Empire to Everyone**

Tsar Krastyo Damyanov

Greetings, I see that you are suffering heavily from the depredations of rogue creations both your own and those of others. From my observations of your land I can see that you are a good ruler and one devoted to his people. So this is my offer. Swear fealty to me and I will deal with these problems. I will not interfere in your own governance, and will protect you from all dangers. All I ask is that you swear to abide by my one simple law. Do not cause trouble. And that you be willing to help me clear the rest of Europa of its dangers.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Mountain King**

Baron Klaus Wulfenbach

Doge Falcone,
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Birds of Prey**

I am unfortunately not all powerful. Spain and France will do what they do, and I have other matters to attend to. Perhaps if you or your Italian comrades swore fealty to me I would have more reason to help. This may simply seem like trading one master for another, but listen to my offer. I would not interfere in your day to day governing. Or even impose undue demands on you. I would protect you from all threats both human and not, and in return all I ask is that you follow my simple laws. Which can be summed up as do not make trouble. And that you be willing to help me clear the rest of Europa of its dangers.

Baron Klaus Wulfenbach

Yes, I am currently overseeing the quarantine of Poland from the St. Petersburg. Meet me there.
 * Russia to Transylvania**

Tsar Varfolomei Petrov

You are not far from being a monster yourself, Prince. For now I will agree to your peace, but know that if you do not mend your ways one day I will come for you.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to Transylvania**

Baron Klaus Wulfenbach

That seems like a reasonable deal to us. We accept.
 * Russia to the GAoOT**

OOC: No, that's your own thing. He's after sparks not monsters.

"You aeed vould be velcome."
 * Jaeger Generals to the GAoOT**

Yes, we already knew about the Mountain King's propensity to dig tunnels. He dug them under our lands as well. However we have not had any problems with him or the tunnels so far. And we have come to an agreement over them.
 * Bulgaria to Greece**

A surprising series of events has occurred in the Italian Peninsula. Rather than pursuing another conventional city state as most politicians in Europa had expected the Kingdom of Spain has instead negotiated a long term contract with the Corsair Mercenary Company. The former pirates had long been working to clean up their image, but with this they have fully given up their old ways and integrated completely with one of the most respectable nations in Europa in everything but name. France continued its negotaitions with the Italian City States rather than go to the more unconventional factions. however it has shown the might of the Franc and its numerous banking and merchant houes by simultaneously convincing two separate city states, Milan and Trento, that they would be better off under the flag of the French Empire.
 * Spain and France in Italy**

The extermination of the Darklings was a brutal affair as the Russian demonstrated the superiority of their armies and military sparks. They commenced the battle with a two week long artillery barrage that turn most of the Northern Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth into a charred and barren wasteland. Once the pounding had ceased the mighty Russian battle fortresses of the wall deployed their treads and rolled forward into the mists with their auxiliary units. At this point the battle engaged as Darklings poured out of the fog to attack the Russian infantry. For any other power this would likely have resulted in a defeat or at least a slowdown. But the Russians demonstrated not only the toughness of their soldiers, but also their never ending supply of reserves by crushing the Darkling onslaught. In this they were helped by the addition of Transylvanian forces. Surprisingly enough the Army of the Architect also was on the scene to help destroy the Darklings in their second eradication campaign in Europa.
 * Russia and the Darklings**

On another front the besieged armies of the Mountain King valiantly repelled waves of Darkling assaults. Displaying great tenacity and fortitude the surrounded soldiers of the Mountain King managed to hold out for almost five months until the Russian war machine was able to make contact and push the Darkling horde back. Reports are that by the end of the campaign the darkling bodies were piled in great droves and burned as the Russians finished up the campaign. Unfortunately the various soldiers searching the area were unable to find any survivors of the Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth. Only those few refugees who had already escaped survived. In addition several sparks have permformed tests on the mists and come to the rather disturbing that the mists themselves are the cause of the darklings. It causes some kind of mutation in people that come into contact with it changing them into darklings which unfortunately can then breed and create new pure darklings. Fortunately the Russians had suspected as much and outfitted all of their and their allies forces with environmentally sealed armor before hand. This does however mean that the Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth remains an extremely dangerous place. As such Tsar Varfolomei Petrov has declared the Polish territories to be under quaratine. The Russian army has erected great blockades all along the Polish-Lithuanian borders and elite Dark Cloud units patrol the mists hunting anyone unfortunate or stupid enough to violate the quarantine.

Following their aid in the extermination of the Darklings the Army of the Architect flew towards the Mediterranean to return to their routine stomping grounds. Unfortunately for them along the way they had the misfortune to run into Othar Trygvassen, Gentleman Adventurer. Although not actively looking for the army Othar was never one to let the opportunity to defeat such a vile army of rogue creations go by. He proceeded to infiltrate their fleet, crash their airships, and defeat the Clank Generals in single combat one by one.Not being able to stop him the defeated clanks bowed to Othar and pleaded with him to spare their mechanical lives in return for their aid in cleaning all that was evil from the rest of Europa. Not being foolish Othar of course declined. First he he adjusted each and every clank of the army to be unable to harm the innocent and to uphold all that was good and just in the world. Then he accepted their aid.
 * Othar Tryggvassen, Gentleman Adventurer and the Army of the Architect**

As the news spread of this famous victory, one of Othar's most impressive to date, the taverns rang with cheers for Othar and his single handed defeat of one of the most dreaded menaces in all of Europa. And in regards to the Army itself the people have cautiously begun to accept the rehabilitated clanks. After all if Othar is willing to trust then so perhaps should the common people. This has been aided by the Army's recent history of cleaning out infestations of monsters rather than plundering innocent villages.

Greetings, My message to you is a simple one. You have claimed territory in Central Europa, but you have not actively governed it. There is nothing there but wilderness. I request that you give it to me. It is doing you no good, and without any governance is simply serving as a breeding pit for the monsters and rogue creations that plague Europa. I on the other hand could not only govern it more effectively, but also clean out all the monsters from the area, giving them one less place to spawn.
 * Baron Wulfenbach to the Birds of Prey**

Baron Kalus Wulfenbach

Turn 8
Very well I agree. I will allow you to form this Guard, and I will convince the Nobles to choose you as its head. But your record is not an untarnished one. We will be watching to see if you really have the good of all of Germany at heart.
 * Mecklenberg**

OOC: He's going to want some of your sparks too. You don't actually have much econ to give and territory is worthless mechanically. He's also going to want to merge your espionage with his eventually.

We know you have developed highly advanced factories in the past. They are very well designed. Now we want to take the same basic principal in a different direction. Instead producing economic goods rather than military clanks.
 * Russia to the Spark University of Celaenae**

Her Majesty has an offer for you King Grimwald. We will send an envoy.
 * England to Mecklenberg**

The baron looked at his old home. His ancestral castle, which was now in ruins. The regiments of infantry behind him shifted uneasily as he stood silently for several minutes them without turning he spoke in a cold voice. "All Scout squds will rendevous with a Sifter and head into the surrounding areas. I want to know who did this. HAve the fleet send down the First and Second armored divisions with orders to secure the area. I don't want a monster, brigand, or unathorized soldier within 50 miles of here. The rest of you set up a perimeter out here. I'll be back in two hours."
 * Central Europa**

With that the Baron stepped forward and walked in his old castle. The captain of his personal squad almost spoke up about an escort, but then fell silent as he realized that the Baron probably didn't need or want any help clearing out monsters. Not in the mood he was in.

Russian Border For several weeks Russian troops had been gathering on the border. The full Russian army was still months away, but there were already thousands of troops setting up temporary fortifications and repelling the occasional Darkling attack. They were also waiting. But the veteran troops knew they wouldn't have to wait for much longer, for days the ground had been rumbling and on the horizon they could see a massive shape getting closer.

St. Petersburg - Russian Leviathan The gargantuan crawler slowly rolled forward. Half a mile of armor plating, artillery platforms, and troop quarters tirelessly pulled forward by treads the size of buildings and crushing anything too stupid or too slow to get out of the way. In the heart of the monstrous vehicle furnaces devoured enough fuel to feed several cities to power the mammoth engines of war. Up top engineers conducted final checks on the cranes and vehicles that moved and delivered ammo to the Long Death, the largest Artillery Piece the Russians had ever built. And in the command tower at the rear of the vehicle Tsar Varfolomei Petrov watched his generals bicker in the holographic screen that comprised the central portion of the bridge. Finally he had had enough.

"Silence! I don't care which of you is the first to enter the Commonwealth. I know boredom has set in ever since we crushed the last of the Golden Horde, but reports are that the Darkling Horde is almost as big as the Golden Horde in its heyday. Do not let yourselves get overconfident just because the Wall is complete and the St. Petersburg is finally online is no reason to get complacent. We are facing a foe that is not human. Anything could happen so stay on your guard. General Solokof I am assigning the new Lightning Armor Unit to your command. The Vasilyev has been refitted to carry the new fliers. Wait for it to arrive then escort it further in. Your task is to find any sort of central nest and destroy while the rest of us will hold back and destroy the main horde. The Second Third and Fifth armies should arrive in one month. The First, Fourth, and Seventh in two. We will attack then. Dismissed."

As the display switched off the Tsar stood and absentmindedly played with a wrench he had taken out of his pocket. Then he headed down to the engine complex. The St. Petersburg was his finest creation, but by all that was holy it was so slow. Maybe he could fix that.

The Jaeger looked at the envoy and scratched his chin, "Ve hef hed several pipple kome to us like hyu hef. Alvays dey tell us dey veesh to help. Dat dey veesh to find de Boys und brink dem back to make tinks right. Zum giff us only der vords. Und zum giff only a tiny bit. So ve vill tell hyu vat ve told dem. Schow us hyu actually mean vat hyu say. Do a bit uf lookink on you own den ve vill talk."
 * Jagers to Hessen Thuringia**

"And what exactly do you mean by having the guard act as it sees fit. What would this benefit us. My armies have already been proven in battle as have the other duchies. I do not disagree that there are many threats in Europa, but why then should we separate our forces instead of combing them into force that can handle everything."
 * Mecklenberg to Hessen Thuringia**

"So you wish to fight alongside us once more then. Very well your forces can be part of our push into Poland. Be prepared for heavy fighting our advance guard has already run into the darklings and they are a dangerous foe."
 * Russia to Transylvania**

"And why do you think we would know what you are talking about. The English destroyed our camp and took everything we had built. There is nothing of ours there anymore. Of course there are scavengers picking at it. There are always are after battles. But its no concern of ours. Why don't you go look at them yourself if you're so interested."
 * Skulding Tribes to the GAoA**

The Skulding don't care a bit if you want to come after them. Another enemy is just more fodder for the glory of battle. Sure they took a pounding, but it took a superpower to do it to them. Their fleets are still larger than everyone but the superpowers and their morale is higher than ever. They are retreating and rethinking their strategies, but they are perfectly willing to take on anyone who wants to come after them, especially now that they're in their own homes. That said the Skulding are a fairly blunt and truthful people. So they aren't lying either. Whatever is messing around in their old base camp isn't theirs.
 * To GAoA**

Also why on earth do you think they would have any idea what other countries are researching. Their espionage is lousy and they plunder money and goods for the most part.

Alright since this is coming up more than I expected it to I am going to clarify these production bonuses. They do not just apply automatically. The only one to benefit is the owner of the bonus, either the original researcher or someone they transferred it to entirely. In order for another country to benefit they have to give that country control of their resources and let them invest it in the specified stat. Either just for that turn or more permanently like the Fugger Bank did for econ. Now this isn't terribly hard, but essentially it means you have to be working on the same project. So you can't just be working on something different and still get the bonus.
 * OOC: To Everyone**

"Ah so you're the ones who designed it. Yes it is a great system. We have already installed our own detectors of course, but perhaps their is something else you would like to work on. I have many of your designs, and have been wondering who it was that had built such ingenious systems. I would be pleased to work more closely with you."
 * Russia to the Spark University of Celaenae**

Tsar Varfolomei Petrov

We would rather not channel our efforts through someone so far away. It would leave our efforts extended and inefficient. We are however willing to purchase the technology from you. Would a payment of [++ p. econ] suffice.
 * France to the Spark University of Celaenae**

Marquess Laurent Léon Bordelon, Minister of Trade

We thank you for the offer but we must decline. We already have many projects of our which must be done and our resources are already invested.
 * Spain to the Spark University**

King Fabricio Roldán Salcedo

I'm afraid her majesty has no use for your little project. You might be able to delude others, and maybe even yourselves, into thinking its safe, but we know the trouble its caused. And unlike you Theocrats we actually place some value on non sparky life.
 * England to the Spark University of Celaenae **

Earl Anderson Brewster, Minister of Foreign Affairs

Molvia-Hultz and Wurttemberg have announced that their two great countries are joining. The news was released to great acclaim by the Molvian people who had been saved by Wurttemberg and the mood was also excited in Wurttemberg as they have long been close allies with the people of Molvia and their fellow Germans in Hultz.
 * Central Europa**

Almost simultaneously news has reached the rest of Europa that the city state of Turin has decided to commit itself to France as a protectorate, and the city state of Cagliari has chosen to do the same with Spain. This follows a massive outpouring of French and Spanish support into the respective city states to deal with the recent invasion of undead.
 * Italy**

Besides Spain and France several other countries also committed forces to helping the Italian City States. Molvia-Hultz sent forces to help their allies, although these were quickly recalled when the Skulding Raiders attacked. The Birds of Prey sent a contingent of soldiers, the Celestial Empire also sent much of its army along with substantial support. Even Transylvanian forces were in the area to protect a group of Transylvanian sparks working to find an end to the plague. But the most surprising contributor was the Glorious Army of the Architect. Cordoning off a large portion of central Italy the clanks worked tirelessly to clear the area of zombies. The combined efforts of the contributors easily overwhelmed the horde and Italy was quickly declared free of the infestation.

Shortly after the announcement the people of the newly expanded country were beginning to return to normal business after the shock of war and the excitement of joining. Then the Skulding attacked. Sailing up the Aegean the massive Skulding raiding fleet mercilessly savaged the kingdom's defenders. It was not entirely one sided. The Molvians managed to destroy a few long boats, but it was nowhere near enough. As their spider longboats stepped over the broken bodies of the Molvian defenders the Skulding raiders celebrated and began to loot the rich merchant ports and towns. Then they made their way back to the sea intent on looting the rest of the rich hunting grounds of the Mediterranean.
 * Molvia-Hultz**

But for once things did not go their way. For instead of the clear waters that the Skulding were expected they were confronted by a massive English armada. Unused to fighting an equal opponent on the water, much less the undisputed masters of the sea the Skulding stood no chance before the English warships. They did try, but as countless longboats fell to the merciless barrage of English Battleships the Skulding eventually broke and fled. Unable to leave by sea they instead retreated overland. Passing over the still broken Molvian lands they continued northward over the lightly settled Wild Woods territories until they reached the Baltic and were able to reach the safety of their own territories.

Meanwhile in Molvia the English fleet disembarked sailors and engineers and helped the Molvian defenders salvage what they could of their own forces as well as put several of the broken longboats back into commission to serve as replacements while their own army was rebuilt. That done the English fleet sailed back into open water, and according to onlookers simply vanished. Several days later it reappeared next to the Skulding's Mediterranean base camp where it obliterated the few remaining Skulding in the Mediterranean before vanishing again.

Movlia: +++++ Skulding: +++++ ++++ England: +
 * Losses**

Refugees are pouring not just into the Mountain King's lands but into every country bordering the Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth. They all have the same story. Several months ago mists started appearing out of the ground. At first it was just in the mornings like normal mist. But then it started lasting longer and longer. Until eventually the land was under its shroud continuously. And then the dieing started. People began vanishing. And then their parts started turning up again, and before long the darklings began attacking more openly. The Golden Hussars tried to stop them, but then the darklings revealed their true numbers. After the horde tore the army apart it started rampaging throughout the countryside killing at will.
 * Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth**

In Russia the refugees tales are met with speculation then a response. Massive fortresses have appeared almost overnight along the border, and the vast Russian army is beginning to mass nearby. It appears plain that before the year is out the Russians plan to assault the darklings before their numbers can grow any further.

Heading south the massive clank airship crossed over the Baltic Sea and entered the remnants of the Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth. Unmolested by the darklings who had no interest in the ruined factories of the Commonwealth the Hive clanks were able to salvage ++ econ before returning to the hive and moving on.
 * The Hive**

In the remnants of the Skulding labs where their sparks once worked to improve the fleet something is stirring. Scavengers have reported strange skeletal things moving in the ruins. Piecing themselves together with whats left of the Skulding supplies. And sometimes with whats left of an unwary scavenger.
 * Algeria**
 * Skulding Ruined Base Camp**

Sparked into action by the larger hordes the multitude of smaller rogue creations have begun to move and join together into roving masses of their own. In Ireland a flock of giant birds, along with some bats, mutated insects, and an assortment of flying clanks has assaulted numerous villages and smaller clans. The Celtic armies were able to fend off some it, but many more simply avoided the soldiers and hit less well protected areas. In the land of the Theosophs strangely mutated beasts have begun bursting forth from the underground. All manner of hideous creations from the deep dark have appeared to assault the defenseless towns. As in the land of the Celts Theosoph soldiers fought valiantly, but were unable to fully cover all the villages under their protection. The story is different in Greece. As mutated sea creatures begin to hop slither and crawl from the watery depths sturdy lightning phalanxes greet them up and down the coast, and while the battle is hard fought manage to keep the beasts from getting any further inland. In Spain the story is similar as a group of rogue clanks is corralled by Spanish regiments and then destroyed with long range artillery fire. A rampaging pack of behemoths, ogres, trolls, and giants smashes through the Bulgarian border and looks ready to wreak havoc in the peaceful empire. At least until a single smiling Envoy greets them, calms them down, and signs them up for Bulgarian citizenship. Things do not go so well in the northlands as creature of ice and snow take advantage of the Skulding Fleet's absence to destroy numerous villages. At least until the demoralized but still heavily armed fleet returns home and drives them off.
 * Europa**

Spoiler The monsters have concentrated. Whereas before it was hitting almost everyone, now it will hit less people harder. Of course if they aren't stopped the monsters will hit more and more targets every turn.
 * Unlucky Lottery**

Irish Celtic Clansmen loses - morale. Theosoph loses their morale investment, but not quite enough to reduce their stats. The Skulding Tribes lose + morale.

The tall figure lowered his telescope and turned triumphantly. "At last the Mediterranean. I've finally made it out of this accursed continent." A heavily robed figure standing at the wheel responds, "See I told you I would get us here." The tall figure turns and with an angry tone says, "Eight years, your accursed shortcut took us eight long years. I had to deal with the entire Skilananian Empire when your shortcut took us over them. I could have gotten here faster just walking." The robed figure shrugs, "Well at least you got an army out of it." The tall figure turns back to the windows and sighs, "True enough, set a course for Castle Wulfenbach and inform the fleet. It's time Gil finally saw his home."
 * Skys Over Algeria**
 * Airship Bridge**

With a rumble the airship engages its engines and begins heading north across the Mediterranean. And soon the skies behind it fill with an armada of additional airships in a pleasing variety of colors and all marked with the Wulfenbach sigil.

The gallant adventurer presses onward, eager to at last confront the blue glow. Unaware that his maps have been stealthily replaced by Theosoph agents the adventurer finds himself in Molvia. Undeterred Othar enjoys a traveling Heterodyne show before heading towards the labs of the local madboys. There he confronts the evil doctor Hyruten and his radishes of techni colored dysentery. What follows is one of Othar's most disturbing adventures, even taking into account his travels through the swamps of Estonia. But Othar is not deterred by such mortal frailties. And in the end he emerges from Hyruten's castle triumphant. And after spending the next three days in the outhouse of the local inn for unspecified reasons continues onward towards further adventure. Leaving the local villagers exuberant that Hyruten's radishes will trouble them no more and giving yet more ammunition to the storytellers.
 * Othar Tryggvassen, Gentleman Adventurer**

Spoiler Molvia loses ++ spark, gains + morale, - WO.

Turn 7
toc Dense fog banks have been sighted around the English isles. They are becoming an impediment to shipping.
 * England**

The Great Locks swing open. A normal occurrence for this busy access point to the Mediterranean shipping lanes. However this time nothing comes through. Not one of the numerous Spanish warships, one of the ubiquitous merchant freighters, or even a small fishing flotilla. Nothing at all disturbs the water between the gates. And nothing continues to come through for almost a full day before the locks close once more. And all the time the guards determinedly don't look at the nonsight.
 * Locks of Gibraltar**

The broadcast treaties are viewed dimly by most of Europa. Most simply regard it is a move by the Theosophs to use the Loki Brigade's remaining forces for themselves. Their alliance with Transylvania, long know for its rather disgusting corpse stealing habits, is also viewed with disdain. On the other hand many do view the Loki Brigade in a slightly higher light now. The Theosoph's long term goals might be unknown, but at the very least it will be better than the Loki Brigade running rampant.
 * The Accord of Three Strands**

I forgot to modify Transylvania's WO to take into account them hitting Molvia. So they're actually negative now. Since I forgot to include this I won't penalize you for associating with them even though they're a negative WO country now.
 * To Exthalion**

I forgot to include this in your EoT, but you actually lost ++ WO for attacking Molvia without a Causus Belli. This actually means that your WO is the same points wise, but is negative now.
 * To Madwand**

Very well we never wanted this war, and we do not wish for it to continue. We will not demand reparations simply withdraw your troops in good order and leave our lands.
 * Molvia-Hultz to Transylvania and Hessen-Thuriniga**

You know one day you're going to annoy someone enough that they aren't going to just let you retreat.
 * To Transylvania**

And why exactly should we believe you. We have other things we could be spending our resources on.
 * Wurttemberg to the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun**

Unfortunately as dangerous as the Skulding are and as much as we would like to help you clear the Mediterranean we have a rather more pressing matter to attend to in our own lands. We regret that we could not be of assistance.
 * Italian City States to Celestial**

We are unfortunately massively over stretched. Our forces are in Algeria cleaning up the remaining zombies here, protecting our and the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Suns lands, helping the Italians with the zombie problem that we already let escape once, and doing all this without showing weakness to France. So unfortunately we can not commit anything against the Skulding at this time. Perhaps if you were to help us in one of our other commitments.
 * Spain to the Celestial Empire**

We do agree that the Skulding are a great threat, and we will help you against them if you feel that is necessary. However we feel that you are forgetting our true enemy, England. One of the major reasons they have to openly move against us is because their fleets have worked to keep the Skulding contained, and to protect their own shipping. With the Loki mending their ways, and the Skulding eliminated most of the threats to commercial English shipping would be gone. And they would be free to use their military elsewhere. So yes the Skulding are an enemy to us, but they are also an enemy to the British, and they have more to lose to the SKulding than we do.
 * Celts in Exile to the Irish-Celtic Clansmen**

We will think on it. However to be quite honest we have suffered the raids of the Skulding for years. And no one bothered to help us. Now that they have finally moved on we see little reason to either draw their attention Northward again or to help the Mediterranean countries that have done little for us.
 * German Duchies and Mecklenberg to Irish-Celtic Alliance**

The fight with the Loki Brigade strained our resources. And we also need to stabilize the German region, and deal with the Hive. We will certainly send troops against the Army of the Architect, but the Skulding will have to wait for now.
 * German Duchies to the Mountain King**

Gunter notices that things are changing in Mechanicsburg. Jaegers are pouring in from everywhere and then dispersing again to surrounding areas where temporary fortifications are starting to spring up. Meanwhile in Mechanicsburg itself an increased drive for tourism has sprung bringing in tourists from all over Europa. This combined with the new trade agreements with the Mountain King means that Mechanicsburg is booming. Meanwhile the Jaergenerals themselves seem much more relaxed in during the negotiations. And readily agree to allowing wargames. They do however nix the idea of mercenary work. You get the impression that they have some pressing reason to stay near Mechanicsburg.
 * To the Mountain King**

The Bulgarian envoy continues smiling, but his tone is slightly exasperated as he speaks, "We told you it would work, but no of course you didn't believe us, meh. Unfortunately the devices are quite complex, and difficult to build. We are producing more, but only have enough to protect four or five more countries. Also we are slightly worried by our analysts latest predictions over the monsters. Our devices can easily handle the current level of incursions, but should more come they may well overload. Your aid in producing more to compensate for the increased numbers would be quite helpful."
 * Bulgarian Empire to the Mountain King**

The agree to a meeting
 * Mecklenberg and the Western Duchies**

Do you think we have forgotten your attempt to attack us. Keep your clanks and your offers of "help" well away. We have our own allies who we trust to aid us far more than you.
 * Italian City States to the Greek Unified**

We thank you for your offer. Indeed we require all the assistance we can muster to deal with this plague. Your assistance would be most appreciated.
 * Italian City States to the Birds of Prey**

It appears that your war is winding down, while ours is just starting. Can we count on you to aid us as we aided you.
 * Italian City States to Molvia-Hultz**

Tell us more of these towers. What exactly can they provide us that would make them so efficient to purchase from you.
 * France to the Great Unified Greek States**

Thank you for the offer, but we decline. We have already developing our own power sources and see no need to divert our resources to fund the building of our towers.
 * Spain to the Great Unified Greek States**

Next Update

The Baron's Return Othar and the Mountain King (I know I said it would be this update. I was mistaken.)

The Algerian zombie hordes overwhelm the Spanish and Hospitaller forces containing them. It's all the soldiers can do to keep themselves alive as the horde breaks through the barricades. Certain that they are about to die the soldiers watch in surprise as the zombies ignore them instead shambling out of the cities and straight into the Meditteranean. Several weeks later bodies start washing up on the shores of Italy. And soon the horde is active once more.
 * The Living Dead**

Italian City States lose + morale.

Unnoticed in the fighting the rogue clanks busy at work in the shipyards of the Loki Brigade complete their project. Soon a massive metal object takes to the air supported by a multitude of whirling rotors. Surrounded by a swarm of clank drones the flying hive makes its way out of Norway and into the unattended land of the Skulding where it's workers begin gathering more resources.
 * The Hive**

The Skulding lose + econ. The Hive gains + econ.

The hordes of rogues creations roaming the lands has not gotten smaller in fact it has only grown, but in recent years the lords and rulers have grown wary increasing their patrols and protecting their citizens. And so the citizens of Europa know a short period of peace. But the most wary of them know that it will not last, for the monsters have been driven out not destroyed and as they seek refuge in the ruins of Algeria and Norway their numbers only continue to increase. The Celts and Germans declare victory in the north as their forces finally take the whole of Norway. It was not a total victory as many units of the Loki Brigade simply abandonded the fleet and ran away when it became clear they were on the losing side. However as the main danger was the fleet aiding and abetting the Army of the Architect King Grimwald and his allies feel that a few scatttered pirate airships are no longer a present threat, and can be taken care of by normal patrols.
 * The Monster Hordes**
 * The Baltic**

The war whose origins still puzzle Europans continues to fight. Hessen Thuringian troops intially were able to gain significant headway against the defending troops. However soon into the campaign season an Italian force arrived to bolster the Molvian-Hultz soldiers. The combined army was able to push the Hessen Thuringian soldiers back to the original borders. Meanwhile Wurttemberg troops had been observing the battle, while their leaders decided which side to support. However a surpirse attack by Transylvanian forces hoping to take advantage of the Molvian army being engaged elsewhere refocused their prioties. With a clear and well defined foe the Wurttemberg army formed a hasty defense against the Transylvanian raiders. Although terribly outnumbered they valiently held the line till the very end, buying time for a contingent of Molvian-Hultz and Italian troops to disengage and form an eastern defensive line. Duke Kraemer vows that the Wurttemberg sacrifice will not be forgotten and that someday somehow they will be repaid.
 * Hessen-Thuringia and Molvia-Hultz**

Resurfacing from whatever forgotten corner of Europa they had been hiding in the Army of the Architect has attacked Malta, the fortress home of the Knights Hospitallers. Although too late to save their fallen protectorate the army of clanks avenged them by dealing a terrible blow to the Hospitaller's own sparks and workshops before retreating back to the Meditteranean. Skulding Raiders in the Meditteranean The Skulding have long desired to plunder what they see as the weak rich countries of the Meditteranean, but have always been barred acess by the great Lock of Gibraltar. However with the fall of Algeria they saw their chance. Moving overland the Skulding Raiding fleet battled Spanish patrols, wandering zombies, and even the harsh unfamiliar desert itself to make their way to the Meditteranean. Once they did they were forced to establsih a small temporary camp in one of the easternmost Algerian villages in order to recuperate from their trek. However the unfamiliar environent did not keep them long from their lust for plunder. And shortly afterwards they launched a massive raid on the Celestial Empire.
 * Malta**

With both the Army of the Architect and the Skulding raiding fleet now in the Mediterranena it has transformed into a deadly enviroment. Most merchants are now refusing to cross it no matter the price. And all the coastal countries are rapidly reinforcing their defenses.
 * The Meditteranean**

Talks between the two great powers and the respected Italian City States they have targeted continue. Rumors are that some form of agreement is being reached, bolstered by the fact that neither country is willing to let the other get ahead in the negotiations. Meanwhile both countries have begin fortifying mountain passes on their respective sides of the Pyrenees.
 * France and Spain**

Turn 6
The envoy looks around and then takes a seat himself. "Well as you may have noticed there has been an upsurge in the population of rogue clank creations . Monsters and clanks and the like. We of course find this appalling, especially in that no one seems to be doing anything about it, so we have been working on some way to quiet the chaos. And we think we have at least partially succeeded. We have a device that will affect clanks and and at least a few monsters. It makes them calmer and less prone to violence. Of course we could just deploy it in Bulgaria, but how would that help everyone. And we now how paranoid other countries are. If we offered it openly they would think it was some sort of trick. The Tsar was considering how best to go about spreading it around, when he found out about your tunnels. And of course that's the perfect solution. A network of underground devices will work well to reduce monster attacks all over Europa. And as a side benefit I'm sure it will help in reducing your own digging machine problem."
 * Bulgaria to the Mountain King (PM Level)**

The general smiles. A frightening sight on a Jaeger of his size. "Oh yah, Hy know how it iz. De sacrifices ve must make for de greater goot. A trade agreement vould be most beneficial. Und if it takes mondds to hemmer out hall de fine details. Vell ve do vat ve must."
 * Jaegergenerals to the Mountain King (PM Level)**

Not much heppened. De Heterodyne left as soon as ve approached. Ve tried to chase him und get him to tell us vy he hed disappeared, but he didn' say. Und now he hes disappeared again. So ve vill kontinue to look."
 * Jaegergenerals to the Birds of Prey**

In a display of compassion and feeling for their fellows the Celestial Empire has begun a fundraiser to raise money for those that have suffered from the constant fighting in recent years.
 * Europan Fundraiser**

The fighting in Algeria has broken into the open at last drawing the attention of the world to what was considered a fairly quiet dispute. In a relatively short space of time the Knights Hospitallers have ovverun the Theocratic Technocracy of Algeria's temple complexes. This has drawn negative attention of numerous nations who had been developing relations with the Technocrats in recent years. The Spanish army which had been containing the zombie outbreaks in several Algerian cities has begun marching towards the former Algerian capital for undisclosed reasons.
 * Algeria**

Knights Hospitallers lose + WO.

In a move which was completely unezped Hessen Thuringia has invaded Molvia-Hultz. Claiming as their cause the the Duke Meinard Kraemer had been heinous in ignoring the king's favorite aunts birthday. Duke Kraemer's response is reported to have been completely befuddled as just last year the Molvia-Hultz and Hessen-Thuringian troops had been working closely to clear the Wild Woods.
 * Molvia Hultz**

What was once regarded as a mere skirmish with pirates has grown into something more. Permanent military bases have been constructed on both sides of the Baltic from which airship fleets launch in the continuation of this three year war. However the recent infusion of Mecklenberg forces has stiffened the Celtic lines, and despite the withdrawal of the United Celtic-Irish clansmen and the sudden appearance of mercenaries fighting for the Loki Brigade they have succeeded in driving the pirates back and establishing the first ever beachhead in Norway.
 * The Baltic Sea**

Turn 5
After extensive negotiations the Confederation of the Clock and France have come to an agreement. The Confederation has agreed to become a province of France and contribute there clock making genius to the improvement of the French merchant exchange. In return France will take over the protection of of the Confederation which has long been afraid that their lack of their own forces would eventually lead to be targeted by one of the many raider fleets.
 * The Confederation the Clock**

The Duchy of Tangiers has returned to the fold, and has become a duchy of Spain once more. Many believe this motivated by the Corsair attacks and the quick Spanish intervention, but a few indicators point to negotiations being rushed to counter the latest news from France. (Falconer if you want to return you can assume Spain accepted your first proposal.)
 * Spain**

The fighting between the Celtic fleet and its allies and the Loki Brigade and its allies has intensified. An apparent retreat by the United Irish-Celtic Clansment slipped past the Transylvanian airfleet. After rendezvousing with a small Spanish fleet it used Transylvania's own tactics against it and attacked from the rear. This left the battle in an unusual position as the combined Celts in Exile and German fleet was caught between the Loki and Transylvanian fleets, while the Transylvanian fleet was in turn caught between the two Celtic fleets. Reports are that casualties were taken on all sides, but that the fighting still rages.
 * North Atlantic**

Taking advantage of the complete lack of defenses as both powers fought in the Atlantic the Skulding raiders have begun to launch a series of light raids on the Celts in Exile, and the Loki's Brigade's bases in Norway.
 * Skulding Raiders**

Meanwhile reports from the Wild Woods have begun reaching the rest of Europa. The veteran northern German army swept in from the north, Molvia-Hultz troops moved in from the south, Hessen Thuriniga troops moved in from the west and a combined force from the Birds of Prey and the Mountain King came in from the east. Rumors are that the Coalition destroyed up to +++ of military force, but that the main body of the Wild Woods-Army of the Architect combined army was not found.
 * The Wild Woods**

Afraid of the possibilities that would result from the Wild Woods and the Army of the Architect banding together the northern dukes have met and after much argument agreed to crown Duke Grimwald, the duke behind the successful Skulding campaign and the leader of the German forces in the Wild Woods king. Duke Grimwald, now king Grimwald. has announced the formation of a new German State, Mecklenberg to be formed out of a ll the northern duchies and the territory claimed from both the Skulding tribes and the Wild Woods. He has proclaimed that the he will not rest until Europa has been made safe from this new scourge.
 * Mecklenberg**

Similarly in the south the merchants of the Wurttemberg have convinced their neighbors in Goldavia that they should band together to protect themselves from greater threats. Rumors have it that the total surrounding of Wurrtemberg and Goldavia by the much larger powers of France, Hessen-Thuriniga, and Molvia-Hultz cutting them off from the other German Duchies also had major impact on the discussions.
 * Wurttemberg**

Turn 4
I said it wouldn't be a straight boost. It still gives a discount on building it for yourself.
 * To Birds of Prey, Celestial Empire OOC**

If that's what you want to do.
 * To the Knights Hospitallers OOC**

OOC: They have no idea what you're talking about. They've never been absent. The reason people don't like them is that they used to be a band of pirates and cutthroats.
 * The Corsairs to the Knights Hospitallers**

We will consent to a defensive alliance, as long as you understand that it will be truly defensive and nothing more. As for pirates there is no need. The Mediterranean has been wiped clean of all its pirates and raiders.

We will require ++- econ for every + of our men you wish to hire, but be aware that we are currently in contract negotiations with several other powers so the forces available for hire might be limited.

The bear considers for a few moments scratching its head. "Yes I suppose a few can be spared." He calls a few black bears over and gives them instructions before looking back at the sphinx. "Also it's occurred to us that you might be having misgivings about letting us enter Russia, that you might think we are invading them and that the Russians will look unfavorably on you if they find out you helped. Well don't worry we have already arranged all this with them ahead of time. They know we're coming, although we didn't tell them how so don't worry about the secrecy of your tunnels."
 * The Wild Woods to the Mountain King (PM Level)**

And what proof do you have that the alliance between the Army of the Architect and the Wild Woods is merely a ruse. This is a grave and perilous threat. If they are as cunning as you say wouldn't they be even more likely to try and trick you to lull you into a false sense of security. Their combined forces could decimate all of Europa. We can't afford to take any chances here. And quite frankly your own intelligence services are lacking it would not be terribly hard for someone to bypass them and give you false information. Understand that we think you believe you are telling the truth, but we can not afford to take any chances without solid proof. We will continue to prepare our assault.
 * Molvia-Hult Open Letter to the Mountain King**

Duke Meinard Kraemer

"They are already preparing to leave, although we are unsure where they intend to go. Although we appreciate the spirit of your offer of help we believe it would not come in time. The noisy clanks would be gone by the time your forces got here, and we will not venture out of the Woods unless forced. We would like to discuss another option though. We will defend our Woods if attackers come, but we are not stupid. The Woods have sheltered us for a very long time, but they are not vital to our existence. We have long been prepared to move if the forces of Europa came against us in force. We were prepared to do so over land through the territory of the humans. But your tunnels offer a new solution. If it comes to that may we use them to retreat to our secondary location in the vast forests of Russia. Likely they do not extend all the way, but even part of the distance underground would be greatly advantageous. We are prepared to offer an alliance or even what few goods we can craft in return.
 * The Wild Woods to the Mountain King (PM Level) **

The general nods, "Den ve hef a deal. Und do not vorry. Hyu dig you tunnels und ve'll do de schneakink."
 * Jaegergenerals to the Mountain King (PM Level)**

We think the Mountain King might be wrong. Not because he is lying, but because he was given false information. We will still be attacking unless he can offer solid evidence of his claims. We understand why you want to wait and see though, we do not hold it against you.
 * Molvia-Hultz to Birds of prey**

Duke Meinard Kraemer

That's a really risky and hard project you're working on you realize. It's only at 25%.
 * To Birds of Prey**

We understand why you are worried, but even with out the Mountain King's latest announcement we are still loath to move beyond the boundaries of our defensive pact. Still it is very worrying. We will send some forces to your lands to aid in your defense. That should at least free up some of your own forces for the attack.
 * Confederation of the Clock to Molvia-Hultz**

We will not move at this time. IF you are attacked we will honor our pact, but we will not help you on the offensive. It is too risky.
 * Italian City States to Movlia-Hultz**

A tempting offer from an adversary we respect. But no we already have things to do, and people to raid. You know how it is. Besides if all of Europa is off fighting the scourge that just leaves their homes vulnerable.
 * Skulding Tribe to the German Duchies**

Your letter saddens me. Because because you likely truly believe what you wrote. And that just means the insanity has claimed you fully. That is the true horror of the spark. Through its lens everything looks lovely and good. Only a few sparks I have hunted have actually wanted to hurt things. Most just wanted to help. And they thought they were doing so. But the spark twists all things. Where you may think you are only improving someones life in truth you are making them into a monster, or where you think you are helping farmers to increase their crops in truth you are creating plants that drain their life. I have seen these things and many many more examples in my travels. The spark only leads to chaos and destruction.
 * Othar Tryggvassen, Gentleman Adventurer to Isis**

That is why you must die. That is why all sparks must die. And that is why finally I must die.

Until we meet in person I wish you luck in staving off the final madness. Until then farewell.

Othar Tryggvassen, Gentleman Adventurer

OOC: I thought your rulers were all semi immortal beings. If she read about him when she was a kid wouldn't that make her kind of young.

The clanks bees while dangerous are merely an annoyance in time yes we should deal with them, however we think there are more pressing matters at the moment. The German Duchies have forwarded us a message they recieved from your own intelligence sources warning of an alliance between the Army of the Architect and the Wild Woods, and they asked us for our help in the matter. We of course see the same thing the do, and alliance of these two monsters would be disastrous. We are already working to gather more allies just as we are sure you are with the German Duchies. Do not worry king Johann together we will be able to beat this foe.
 * Molvia-Hultz to Hessen-Thuringia**

Duke Meinard Kraemer

We know you are loath to leave your mountain retreats, but we call upon on you to honor our pact now. The Army of the Architect has allied with the Wild Woods. We must destroy them now before they have the chance to prepare and ovverun all of Europa.
 * Molvia-Hult to the Confederation of the Clock**

The Army of the Architect is allying with the Wild Woods. Will you aid usin defeating them now before they can prepare and strike. We know our pact with you is only defensive, but we believe that we must ask you anyway. For if we wait for them to strike first it will likely be too late.
 * Molvia-Hultz to the Italian City States**

We know that our countries have had few dealings in the past, but we feel it is necessary to approach you now. The Army of the Architect is allying with the forces of the Wild Woods. Such an unholy union is a threat to all Europa. Will you aid us in destroying them.
 * Molvia-Hultz to the Birds of Prey**

We know that our countries have had few dealings in the past, but we feel it is necessary to approach you now since you are so close to the threat. The Army of the Architect is allying with the forces of the Wild Woods. Such an unholy union is a threat to all Europa. Will you aid us in destroying them. Consider that like us you share a border with the Wild Woods.
 * Molvia-Hultz to the Theosophs.**

Admittedly your story is slightly believable, enough so that we are willing to forgo proof for now. For there are greater menaces approaching. Our Northern cousins have informed us that the Army of the Architect is joining forces with the Wild Woods. We can't let them do so for it would spell the doom of all Europa. Our forces already present will have to stay in battle with you to keep the Loki Brigade occupied, because the rest of our forces will have to march on the Wild Woods immediately. If you have any soldiers to spare we implore you to send them as well. And perhaps we can even end this battle with the Loki Brigade. They may be pirate scum, but even they are not as bad as what is coming.
 * German Duchies to Celts in Exile **

We are willing to fight you to the last, but we must inform you of something. The army of the architect is joining forces with the forces of the Wild Woods. We cannot speak for the Celts, but we at least would be willing to put aside our differences at least long enough to deal with this grave threat.
 * German Duchies to the Loki Brigade**

It doesn't say, but you can't have been sealed away completely. Your population would be massively inbred, your language would probably have drifted so far from the main lingua franca that you'd need translators, and you'd have no idea of things like the current politics which you showed by knowing which ports to even go to much less who to contact. Some contact with the outside world had to have occurred just to keep resources coming in. It's not just food, also metal, fuel, wood, even the stone for your fortress walls. Malta doesn't have enough of those things to fuel an entire militaristic fortress, its main resource is its prime trade location, which you weren't doing. You'd have absurd morale and almost nothing else. At worst with no trading at all there would still be the occasional shipwreck or pilgrim seeking to join the order. Which you would at least interrogate before killing.
 * The Knights Hostpitallers OOC**

I mean just that. There are seven popes, which one do you support. And it does not truly matter what your answer is. The answer to your own question is no. Whatever you may have once been you are no longer. You have amassed quite the horrible reputation I have no wish to deal with you.
 * Spain to the Knights Hospitaller**

Indeed and how do you wish to assist the papacy. We are not at war, and I think you'll find that few people wish to speak with you after your long isolation.
 * Rome to the Knights Hospitallers**

Damn those clanks. Our ancient pacts have held for centuries and they go and convince the woods to break them like they have broken so many other things. This cannot stand. If the Army of the Architect and the forces of the Wild Woods join forces they will be a scourge greater than even the Other. We must destroy them now while there is still time and they are not fully prepared. Please start gathering your army we have little time. We have already informed Molvia-Hultz and soft as he is even Duke Kraemer can see the threat this entails. Fortunately we have already dealt with the Skulding and they are no longer a threat, at least not at the moment. We will inform the Mountain King as well. Gather any allies you can. There is no time to waste.
 * German Duchies to Hessen-Thuriniga**

Hessen Thuringia has informed us that their spies intercepted a communication by the Army of the Architect saying that they have allied with the Wild Woods. Obviously this is a disaster. Together the forces of the Wild Woods and the Army of the Architect would be nearly unstoppable. We know you hate the Army of the Architect, please help us now. We must destroy them before they have time to prepare and it is too late.
 * German Duchies to the Mountain King**

We have come to respect your prowess in our recent battles, and so we bring you grave news. The Army of the Architect is allying with the forces of the Wild Woods. Even you must see how much of a threat to Europa that would entail. Will you aid us in defeating them. At the very least think of the glorious battle it would involve and all the loot that would be lost for your own raids if the Architect forces overran Europe.
 * German Duchies to the Skulding Tribe**

A Letter from Othat Tryggvassen, Gentleman Adventurer (Read by many as it makes its way down south) Dear Little Girl Jackie,

First I must congratulate you on how articulate you are at such a young age. Never fear young Jackie I, Othar Tryggvassen Gentleman Adventurer, will come to your aid. It may take me some time as the road south is filled with other evils that need putting down, but do not worry I will make it to you and then I will put an end to this vile Blue Glow.

Othar Tryggvassen, Gentleman Adventurer

We are willing to work with you tentatively. However your past actions have not endeared yourself to the rest of the world. We know what that is like, but if you do not begin redeeming yourself we will be forced to call off any joint endeavors.
 * Corsairs to the Knights Hospitallers**

The bear nods, "The woods do not provide all that we require, place (- econ) in the tunnels for us to take and we will call it a fair trade. We will also require free passage through the tunnels, at least the ones that pass under the woods. As a token of our appreciation we will tell you this. The Noisy Clanks have begun to scheme and lay plans. They are planting evidence of a false alliance with us. We do not know what they hope to gain, but if the other human kingdoms of Europa discover this they will likely erupt in a frenzy.
 * Wild Woods to the Mountain King**

The general looks at Gunter closely, before sighing and leaning back. Pulling a map from a nearby rack he unrolls it to display a map of Europa. "Hy vould normally be very mad, und if ve hed a Heterodyne ve vould use dese tunnels to teach hyu de same lesson ve taught de Onseen Empire"
 * Jaegergenerals to the Mountain King**

The general sighs and leans back for a moment with a distant look in his eys, "Yeah doze vere goot times."

Then his normal hard expression snaps back and he snarls, "But dese hain't doze times, und ve don' hef a Heterodyne. So ve kan kome to an agreement. Our scouts hef been lookink very herd dese last fev years, und ve tink ve know vere at least vun uf de boys iz. But ve're not sure. He's eidder here," The general points to the territory of the Birds of Prey, "Or here." The general points a claw at the Celts in Exile. "Now ve hef no problem vith chust gun dere hall up in arms vith de kavalry, but de odder kountries might not see it how ve do. Und you tunnels present a golden opportunity. Dig us tunnels into dese tvo places und ve vill not only let hyu keep you tunnels ve vill konvince de Heterodyne to hally vith hyu ven ve find him. Vat do hyu say"

The general leans back and crosses his arms waiting for an answer.

A good point clanslord. However the Loki Brigade while pirates have not yet reached our shores, and we have other threats to deal with. We will need to consider it more, but it is unlikely we will be able to aid you in full force. A few ships may be able to reach you though.
 * Spain to the Irish-Celtic Clansmen**

We remain somewhat unconvinced, but as we told your brethren a new matter has arisen to take our attention. The Army of the Architect is allying with the forces of the Wild Woods. This is a monstrous threat to all Europa. We will continue to help you against the Loki for now, but we ask that you at least try to come to terms with them at least for now, so that our full attention can be turned to the true threat.
 * German Duchies to the Irish-Celtic Clansmen**

We can perhaps provide you a loan, but we will not do so out of the goodness of our hearts. The Loki Brigade may be pirates but they have yet to harm us, and we have problems of our own. In light of the fact that they are pirates though our terms will be light. How much do you require.
 * Italian City States**

Your stealth device is already factored into your espionage so it doesn't really add anything else. And it isn't really designed to cloak more than one person anyway. Still the plan itself is sound. It just depends on whether they devote enough espionage to the battle to see through it.
 * To UICC**

After an unexpectely long period with no news of his presenece in which many feared he was dead, Othar Tryggvassen Gentlemen Adventurer has reappeared once more. This time in the far north near his home in Norway. He has taken it upon himself to rid the world of the evil Mandelbaum one of the leading Skulding madboys. In a great and perilous adventure Othar managed to penetrate the evil Mandelbaum's fortress defeat his guards and defeat the evil madboy once and for all in a tale that is being told throughout the inns of Europa. The free Skulding clansmen who had been pressed into working for the evil Mandelbaum through Othar a feast in his honor, and the rest of Europa breathes a sigh of relief that they will no longer have to worry about being subjected to his vile creations.
 * Othar Tryggvassen Gentlemen Adventurer**

Skulding Tribes lose ++ spark, gain + morale, - WO.

Tales have started to trickle out from the remote villages of the Theosophs of a strange blue glow coming from the mountains. Normally this would not be a concern due to the many spark labs in the area having accustomed the villagers to this. But several villagers have fallen sick in recent months adding a new level of fear to their worries.
 * The Blue Light**

Theosophs lose + morale

Strange flying clanks have begun terrorizing several of the Loki Brigade's shipyards. In most they are no more than an annoyance but the shipyard of Kongsberg has been completely overrun, and reports are that the clanks have begun to build more of themselves.
 * Cranky Clanks**

Loki Brigade lose + econ, - morale.

There has been a rise in general monster attacks as the continued chaos in Europa has led to sparks both creating more destructive creations and being less cautious about their restraints. In particular a large outbreak of venoumous clank bees has broken out in Northern Europe near the Hessen-Thuringia Molvia-Hultz border and the swarm has dispersed into many of the surrounding Duchies.
 * Things that go Bump in the Night**

Everyone on the list loses - morale from random monster attacks.
 * Winners of the Unlucky Lottery.**

Army of the Architect(Thelonius) Celts in Exile(Jallorn) Hessen-Thuringia(Murska) Mountain King(Lost Demiurge) Theosophs(Exthalion) Birds of Prey(Sithis) Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun(ragingrage) Knights Hospitallers (Nolipse) France England Spain Russia Confederation of the Clock The Skulding Tribes Molvia-Hultz German Duchies Italian City States

The bear considers for a while before answering. "The answer to your riddle is this. A clank makes no sound when it falls especially when there are many paws to help it on its way. And this bear would make a trade. A few eyes to your king in exchange for tolls on those tunnels you dug without asking."
 * Wild Woods to Mountain King (PM level)**

At this point the Bear has somehow taken on a harder look and the many eyes peering out of the forest have become much mre sinister.

Win this so that your own friends will be free of competition you mean. We have discovered your alliance with the Skulding Tribes. We had thought better of you, but this is a blow to our trust. We will be pulling our forces out of this battle. It is obviously not in our interests to continue fighting.
 * German Duchies to Celts in Exile**

We may consider some sort of agreement, but not investment in your puppet bank. It is obviously to strongly tied to your own interests for us to trust our own finances to it. Not without some gaurantee of its neutrality.\
 * Molvia-Hultz to Hessen-Thuringia**

Duke Meinard Kraemer

Not all actions result in crude open warfare, but we can understand that you pirates would not quite understand that. Also in the future do not try to involve us in your attempts at sowing discord among your enemies. Your own efforts were too clumsy for us to need to take take action this time, but in the future we will not be so forgiving.
 * England to Loki's Brigade (PM Level)**

Earl Anderson Brewster, Minister of Foreign Affairs

There are seven popes you know not just the one in Rome. And this is Canon and common knowledge, even fairly isolated you would know this.
 * Knights Hospitallers OOC**

What is not Canon is where they are, but I have decided to put one in Rome, Spain, France, Italy, Constantinople, Pisa, and Sicily.

And just why do you feel that you need to set up a mission in our quite faithful lands, good knight. I do not like what you are implying. Perhaps you should declare which Pope you adhere to before this goes any farther.
 * Spain to the Knights Hospitallers**

King Fabricio Roldán Salcedo

It pleases me to see you child, indeed a meeting is called for. It shall be arranged.
 * Rome to the Knights Hospitallers**

Pope Giampiero Parma

Ah at last zumone vo knows vat de important tinks in life are. Yah ve are listenink vat iz dat hyu hef to say.
 * Jaegergenerals to Mountain King**

And spoil your fun, what kind of friends would we be if we went and ruined your fight like that. Of course with their army at sea the Celtic lands are looking invitingly empty, perhaps we will do something about that.
 * Skulding Tribes to Princedom of Transylvania**

High Chieftain Gunnarr Völund

I absolutely agree, the project goes well. Why spoil it by squabbling over the cut now when we can get so much more by waiting just a while.
 * Bulgarian Empire to Balkan Alliance**

Tsar Krastyo Damyanov

In a move that is surprising for many reasons a small Greek raiding party attempted to raid several Italian cities along the Agean. The Italians response was completely unprecedented as numerous city states banded together and sent a massive fleet after the raiders which was destroyed well before it could return to Greece.

In the Corsair held reaches of Italy a turnaround has occurred as the Corsairs themselves have been raided by opportunistic pirates. The raid was beaten back by Corsair forces, but also served as the catalyst for a quiet revolution. The council has been deposed and replaced. The new council is seeking to make amends with the rest of Italy and turn the Corsairs into a more respectable mercenary company.

The Celts, along with their German allies, have launched a punitive assault on the Loki. Although outnumbered the Loki Brigade raced to intercept the Celtic fleet before it could reach their vulnerable land bases. At first the Loki Brigade was hard pressed to hold its own against the Celtic and German forces. But then the entire Translyvanian fleet dropped out of the clouds hitting the Celtic fleet in the rear. Outnumbered and surrounded the Celtic fleet has taken numerous losses, but fights on valiantly.

Predictably the Skulding Tribes have launched a retributive strike against the German Duchies which pushed them out of Denmark. The Germans showed a remarkable amount of preparation as supply routes were established and fortifications raised well in advance of the Skulding attack. On the other hand the Skulding Tribes brought their full military arsenal with them, including never before seen Spider Boats, and were led by their High Chieftain Gunnarr Völund himself, a rare occurrence. The battle was extremely fierce as both sides attempted to destroy the other with massive applications of military force. However over the course of several weeks a stalemate developed as both sides were too evenly matched. Eventually the Skulding requested a parley, and although their discussions with Duke Grimwald, leader of the German coalition, are unknown, the end result was the entire Skulding fleet disengaging and retreating back across the Baltic.

Elsewhere in the Duchies more peaceful developments have occurred. The duchy of Gellene has chosen to join Hessen-Thüringia, a relatively new power, but one that has shown itself to be very capable. Meanwhile the Duchy of Hultz has joined with the Duchy of Molvia, a long time ally, to form the new country of Molvia-Hultz.

Turn 3
Your surveyors are directed to a small mountain clearing. In the center is a field of what appears to be blue crystals, approximately 50 meters in diameter. Even from a distance it is possible to tell that the field is expanding as the crystals grow outwards. Although the rate of growth is still fairly slow. In the center of the field there appear to be several buildings just barely visible below a heavy covering of crystal. What they were originally is impossible to tell, although given what happened the surveyors guess that they were some Spark's lab. Any clanks which actually touch the crystal begin to seize up as the crystals begin to grow on them.
 * To Mountain King**

A large bear walks into the clearing. As it stands up it becomes clear that it is not a normal bear. From the six arms to the large clockwork mechanism attached to its stomach. "We will hear you envoy of the Mountain King. We have little desire to do so, but at least you seem to have a better understanding of our views than the noisy noisy clanks. What do you wish to discuss."
 * Wild Woods**

Normally we would say no, and remind you that our alliance is defensive only. But in truth we are as angered by these attacks and our inability to stop them as you are. We will help you clear Norway of these Pirate's bases.
 * German Duchies**

We had thought it was obvious that we had the forces necessary to repel the Architect's clanks. We will have to commend our spies. But very well we will inform you in more detail next time, Eagle.
 * Italian Merchants to Birds of Prey**

Yes, you have shown yourselves to be true to your word. I'm sure the Heterodyne will reward you well when we have located them at last.
 * Jagergenerals to Birds of Prey**

OOC: That means yes they still want you to help if it wasn't clear.

Yes we will relay to you what our agents discover.
 * England to Loki Brigade (PM)**

As to your other request. Very well if you think you can complete your raid successfully then keep to the clouds and we will turn a blind eye to your passage.

We see no reason to attack the Theosophs. You've already put them on their guard, and even getting to them would be a problem, what with the Poles being ready for us now.
 * Skulding Tribes to the Loki Brigade**

You probably should have asked me what was on the German border first. Because now the two guards in a watchtower get to be the only witnesses to your impressive display of aerial maneuvering.
 * GAA OOC**

Sergeant Gerver watched as the airships completed burning their sign into the nearby field. Turning he looked at his companion in the watchtower. Private Bruhn was actually shaking and looked like he was about to fall over. Slapping the young soldier on the back Gerver said, "Buck up kid. I'll be honest I thought we were going to die too, but look at them. The fools are heading into the Wild Woods. It'll be their metallic heads that will be rolling not ours. Now go get the horses ready we need to let the Baron know about this."
 * German Outpost**

I probably should have been more clear. The raiding fleet is no longer in your lands. It smashed in, grabbed some loot, and smashed back out.
 * To Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth**

Just so everyone knows what the Loki Brigade has been doing and what the Skulding Tribes just did I have been classifying as raiding not invading. The difference is that it is conducted at high speed, which means there is only one battle between the raiders and the defenders involved, and it guarantees at least some looting. The downside is that the raiders can't loot as much as soldiers who are prepared to fight it out for a while.
 * OOC to everyone**

You are mistaken we are at war with noone. We raid where we want and when we want. Don't worry though you're not rich enough to be worth our time, not yet anyway.
 * Skulding Raiders to Transylvania**

I'm not sure what you're talking about. I didn't see anything about the Fugger Bank in your last EoT.
 * To Transylvania and Fugger Bank**

You misunderstand us. We don't need your help. We're perfectly prepared to fight the clanks ourselves. We just thought you'd like to get in on the action what with your previous stand against them. If you want to let technicalities get in the way, then so be it. We thought you were better than that, but it's not surprising to find out a nation is all talk and no substance. Not that it matters anyway. The blasted clanks went around us, and the northern duchies aren't going to go after them. Not now anyway.
 * German Duchies to Mountain King**

I am all for this. Indeed let us get together and begin building a better land for our people's. I can provide my contribution immediately. Just let me know what the rest of you want to work on.
 * Bulgarian Empire to Greek Unified States, Holy Theosophic Empire, Celestial Empire**

Tsar Krastyo Damyanov

OOC: Ok just so we're clear this is medieval Europe. Providing electricity is all well and good, but it's not like the common people have any way to use it. It would only be of benefit to the sparks.

So the surveyors are on site then. I need to make sure of where they are before I can describe the conditions of the operation.
 * To Mountain King and Theosophs**

You mean the Jaegers? They are no threat. I mean yes they are quite deadly, but I was friends with the Heterodyne Boys and many of the Jaegers themselves. They do love their fights, but without one of the bad Heterodynes to lead them they do not seek conquest. And for now they most likely scrambling to find their lost masters and not looking for fights at all.
 * Bulgarian Empire to the Theosophs**

Tradink iz for de pansy boys. Ve do not need it. Ve vould appreciate help in locatink de Heterodynes, but ve are qvite busy vith de search ourselves, if hyu veesh to talk in person hyu kan kome to us.
 * Jaegergenerals to the Celestial Empire**

Yes that would be most excellent. We personally do not fear that war will come to this portion of Europa, but an economic agreement between us all would be most beneficial.
 * Bulgarian Empire to the Holy Theosophic Empire, Celestial Empire, Greek Unified States**

So you only regard kings as being above your jurisdiction then. Even if we are not rulers ourselves we are still part of states separate from yours. And do you think we go into this blindly. That we are doing this without consulting our various doges and dukes. No we have carefully calculated our chances. We have weighed how many mercenaries we can hire in time, and how many Italian soldiers each state will send and we are quite confident. If the Army of the Architect chooses to attack we will not only hold them off, but destroy them completely making Europa a much safer place. Do not look down on us Eagle your state may the most powerful in all of Italy, but the rest of us are not without our forces.
 * Italian Merchants to the Birds of Prey**

Turn 2
We think you misunderstand we have never a bounty on you. The only ones we have put a bounty on are those pirates who have been hunting shipping in the Mediterranean. We still think you are pirates and will not change our minds as all the evidence fits it. But unless you actively attack our us we see no reason to waste money on you when we have more pressing concerns. Of course if your last message was an admission that you have been pirating in the Mediterranean then yes the bounty does apply to you and no we will not withdraw it.
 * Italian Merchants to the Glorious Army of the Architect**

Indeed I would be delighted to send an ambassador. In fact this message will itself be carried by one.
 * Bulgarian Empire to Celestial Empire**

They are pirates and that is fact. If they find it insulting perhaps they should change their behavior so that they are no longer pirates. And quite honestly we are tired of pirates insisting on being treated as the equals of more honorable folk and demanding we ignore their bloody crimes. If they wish to attack then they will find us prepared, and if not then we do not care what they do. And as for your threat. We remind you Eagle that you do not rule us. If the architects choose to attack and you choose not to help defend then we will understand, but do not attempt something so foolish as to attempt to punish those who you do not rule. We will regard any such action as an act of war. And we do not wish for Italian to fight Italian.
 * Italian Merchants to Birds of Prey**

Greetings, I would of course be interested in an alliance. But perhaps you could clarify which powerful enemy you mean. There are many powerful forces in the world today, but we are enemies with none of them.
 * Bulgarian Empire to Theosophs**

These terms are very much not acceptable. In essence you are asking to retain almost full independence while acting under the name and protection of Spain. Do not forget that is I who am helping you. You are not the one dictating terms.
 * Spain to the Duchy of Tangiers**

- The current head of the House of Dragotti will be made the Royal Minister of Finance. The heirs of House Dragotti will recive the right to apply for the position in perpetuity, bust show show their merit as would any other applicant. - The Duchy of Tangiers, while a part of the greater Spanish Realm and under the authority of the Crown, is to be under the feudal mandate of the House of Dragotti, in perpetuity. - The House of Dragotti's current army will be integrated into the Spanish army. In return the Crown will guarantee the defense of the House Dragotti from hostile powers. - The House of Dragotti will be given charge of the locks of Gibraltar. They may tax what they wish, but all Spanish vessels will have free passage. - The House of Dragotti will pay its taxes directly to the Crown as assessed by the Crown's tax collectors. - The Count of the Balearic, may marry the Princess Inés Emigdia Salcedo, my second eldest daughter.

We will indeed wipe out the pirates, but we will not be obligated to do so and not because you asked, but because they are blight that affects us all.

King Fabricio Roldán Salcedo

I think I should make this clear. The Italian Merchant's bounty is only on the Mediterranean pirates. Not because they like other pirates or anything, but simply because they haven't been affected by any others.
 * To Everyone**

Well the Heterodynes pretty much terrorized Europa all by themselves. From what I can tell they pretty much won every war they got into. So whatever their actual numbers are they are pretty much as effective as an army. Plus there are the actual jaegergenerals which implies the presence of a jaeger army. Plus you're assuming the Jaegers are the entirety of what you are dealing with. There is also the entire set of Heterodyne lands along with all the attendant towns and minions. The actual Heterodyne boys might be gone, but everything else is still there. The Jaegers are simply the most visible and iconic of them remaining forces. That's why it's the Heterodyne/Jaeger, and not just the Jaegers.
 * Birds of Prey OOC**

We think you misunderstand, this is a purely defensive alliance. If Italy is attacked then we will band together, because the alternative is to die one by one. We do not however have any interest in pursuing a unified foreign policy. There is too much dissension amongst ourselves for that.
 * Italian City States to the Birds of Prey**

Do what you wish. As long as you make some progress on harassing the Celts we don't care what you do otherwise. Although we do think attacking the Army of the Architect seems a sure way to ensure a new pirate king will soon be attending these negotiations.
 * England to Loki's Brigade**

You misunderstand, we keep an exact accounting and we know down to the last item how much you "taxed" and how much you plundered from our ships. We are not pleased with the taxation as you call it, but we did not ask for it back precisely because as you said it amounts to a toll. A toll we can live with. We can not live with our ships being plundered, which your pirates have done. Pay us + econ to compensate for our losses in that area and we will call it even. Do not worry about distributing it. All the merchants who have suffered losses at your hands are part of the guild now, we will distribute it fairly amongst the owners of the ships you raided.
 * Italian Merchants to the Corsairs**

And we doubt you control the duke. Who would be fighting you in the Tangiers if that was the case. Go ahead attempt to collect any bounties you want. We will pay you. Of course all the other bounty hunters collecting their payments may decide to kill you to collect the additional gold, but what do you expect.

OOC: (You don't have the duke captured. His family yes, but VIP heads of state can slip out of that sort of thing. In this case I am assuming he was leading the defense from the front, and wasn't in his palace at the time you attacked.)

I am not involved in this out of my own self interest. You are simply pirates threatening my neighbors. I do this not to gain for myself, but because you have crossed a line and must be stopped before you wreak anymore havoc.
 * Spain to the Corsairs**

In the Kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun you have liberated nothing. The people of the land may not have been the happiest, but neither were they worst off either, and if the Kingdom chose to hire mercenaries to attack a group of pirates that is not a bad thing. Their particular chose of mercenary may have been bad, but that is not reason for us to deny them our aid.

And if the Duke decided to deny you passage that is his prerogative as the controller of those waters. One we have never entirely agreed with, but his prerogative nonetheless. Your claims of doing this for the good of the people are laughable. You are simply trying to buy time to loot as much as you can and escape. As are your attempts to negotiate with us. Your forces are divided and completely outnumbered. Withdraw your troops if you wish them to survive, but we see no reason to give anything in return.

King Fabricio Roldán Salcedo

True to his word the king of Spain has mobilized almost the entire Spanish army. Using the newly developed clankways they have been able to respond faster than ever before. Three full divisions have reinforced the Tangerian army massing in the silver city. As the Duke of Tangiers is still in control of the majority of his military they have waited on receiving his assessment of the situation before moving. Meanwhile another three divisions have entered the kingdom of the Beshadowed Sun stopping only briefly to pick up the few surviving Kingdom forces returning from the Algerian campaign. Unlike the Spanish troops sent to Tangiers the king has given General Espino full authority to do what he sees fit to remove the pirate presence. (+++ into each of the war zones)
 * The Spanish Intervention**

After a thorough accounting of what their members have contributed the Guild Master has issued a full statement regarding the Mediterranean bounty. +++++ +- has been placed in the trust of the guild. Upon receiving proof of a pirate kill they will pay out an amount of + for every + of pirates dead. As previously stated they will pay double for Corsair heads. They have also released a summary of their records showing their losses to the Corsairs. Some of which were taxes, but the majority is listed as being captured from their ships forcibly. The word pirate is not used, but the implication is quite obvious in their report.
 * The Italian Merchants**

OOC This isn't just a fluff thing. If you devote resources to killing generic pirates they will actually pay you and the Mediterranean will get safer.

Falconer may change this, but until he posts this is the current situation. The Corsairs do not control the strait. they are in fact being pushed back out of the City of Silver by the duke's forces. The lock itself is still fully under the control of the Duke and charging tolls normally.
 * Strait of Gibraltar Update OOC**

The Ottoman Empire has released a full statement to the world. Their work on the great Suez canal is finally complete after decades of construction. And to encourage its use they have proclaimed that they will charge only half of the tolls that Constantinople and the Duchy of Tangiers have placed on their passages.
 * The New Highway to Asia**

The Skulding Tribes envoys of the Loki Brigade's latest successes have began to step up their raiding activities in the Baltic Sea. Numerous Polish towns have been plundered, although as of yet the amount plundered is not anywhere near the levels of that looted by the Loki's Brigade from the Theosophs.
 * Baltic Raiders**

Floods of refugees have taken the horrible tales of killing and atrocities done by the army of the architect throughout the rest of Europa. They are now seen as approaching the insanity of the Other. The Technocratic Theocracy of Algeria is viewed with horror for submitting to the Architects when the coalition had only just started to fight. On the other hand the Mountain King's open defiance has won them praise throughout the land. However any gains they may have made have been canceled by their latest declaration of peace.
 * The New Scourge of Europa**

TTA lose - WO

I absolutely agree. Stability throughout the region is vital to ensuring the prosperity of our peoples. Did you have anything specific in mind or do you just want to ensure our interests align?
 * Bulgarian Empire to the Celestial Empire**

Tsar Krastyo Damyanov

Haha, you were worried that your tiny conflicts would harm the great Russian bear. Do not be afraid for us. Our conflicts in the East are greater than you could even imagine. If one of your tiny Europan powers attempted to attack we would crush them with the might of our mighty Siberian army. But nevertheless we are pleased that you have expressed concern. It may be misplaced, but it is evidence that our trust in you is not misplaced. Now what is it you wished to discuss.
 * Russian to Celestial Empire**

Tsar Varfolomei Petrov

And we say again that we have no quarl with England. You may spread your words of prosperity and unification all you wish, but eventually it all comes back to that single matter. You are eventually going to war with England, and we want no part in it. You may think you will gain the upper hand, but have you considered that England will not sit idly while you prepare for war. Their agents are everywhere, and even now we are sure stolen copies of these letters are speeding back to the shadowy English spymasters.. We will ally with you, but if we joined with you as you suggest it would likely bring the wrath of England down on us.
 * German Duchies to the Celts in Exile**

Of course our forces will rendezvous with yours and we will clear this vile infestation of pirates from your lands swiftly.
 * Spain to the KoBS**

Return to us the plunder you took from our vessels, and we may withdraw the bounty. Until then we will have no business with you. As to your offers of free passage through the Strait of Gibraltar. We admit we would be pleased with that offer, however you have shown no evidence of being in control of the passage. Our agents report that your forces have been driven back. As such your offer is just words and has no true weight.
 * Italian Merchants to the Corsairs**

My debt to the Duke has been settled and paid. You have nothing to offer me pirate, I suggest you remove your forces before they are crushed between my soldiers and the Dukes.
 * Spain to the Corsairs**

The English agent looks at the pirate representative's in mild disgust, but speaks. "I will get straight to the point. Her majesty wishes to offer you a letter of marque. Specifically against the Celts in exile. In return we can offer free passage over all the seas we control. We will also provide you a series of discrete places to resupply. Not just in England, but throughout Europa. As well as help in investigating the Celts in preparation for your assaults. Of course if you wish to raid others we will not stop you so long as you focus at least some efforts on the Celts and do not harm any English shipping.
 * England to Loki's Brigade (Private Meeting) (And England's espionage is the best in the world so yes it's really private.)**

Vell if hyu truly veeshed to help us den proff it. Help us look for de Heterodynes und ve vill konsider helpink hyu. Und hehe ve see vat hyu are sayink about de hets. Ve vill konsider it.
 * Jägergenerals to the Birds of Prey**

OOC: What did you think the most feared army of constructs in Europa was going to be. A minor power. Anyway put resources into searching for the Heterodynes in your EoT and the Jägers will know.

You are asking us to trust pirates to hunt pirates. And do not try to hide behind your glorious war. We know full we that you took on board plunder just as any pirate would. If you truly only desired battle you would have fought only the Algerian's soldiers. But you did not. Your clanks terrorized the countryside killing everyone. We have received streams of refugees telling dark tales of your horrors. Of course you would ask us to lift our bounties on the Corsairs, you are peers in the same bloody business. But at least the Corsairs are relatively light in their plunder. You are simply monsters. We will not work with you.
 * Merchants of Italy to GAA**

Even we have standards. We would never work for you, no matter the price.
 * Mercenaries to GAA**

The navigation system failure only disabled most of the fleet and is already back online. The + that was lost was because it literally being bombed, and is completely destroyed. You can build more, but it will be basically from scratch, and nothing will take effect until the EoT anyway.
 * To the GAA**

All those inhumane atrocities in your EoT had consequences. They may fear you, but no NPC will willingly work with the Army of the Architect. Your WO is fear. Effective for threats, but it basically bars any negotiations like you're trying to do.

Turn 1
Ve serff de Heterodyne not henny odders. Ve do not belieff dat hyu really veesh to help find dem. Ve vill search for dem ourselves as iz our duty. Also de hets are symbols uf honor, ve do not accept dem as bribes.
 * Jägergenerals to Birds of Prey**

Your offer is unnecessary to us. We have long since stop trading through the Gibraltar. It is far more efficient to simply trade overland through our own roads than to pay a toll.
 * France to the Duchy of Tangiers**

Marquess Laurent Léon Bordelon, Minister of Trade

A very intriguing offer. However we believe that when the Sevilla clankway is complete our merchants will be able to simply bypass the strait if they wish. Also our soldiers are busy defending the borders from various brigands and rogue sparks who have decided to take advantage of the Heterodynes disappearance. However do not let it be said we take no heed of your plight. If you wish our protection simply return to the fold as you once were and we will happily extend the protection of our armies as we do for all our people.
 * Spain to the Duchy of Tangiers **

King Fabricio Roldán Salcedo

Really duke do you take her majesty for a fool. It is a good thing she has ordered me to take care of this, so that you will be spared her displeasure. We know full well that not only are you not being threatened by the Technocracy of Algeria and the Army of the Architect, but that they are currently engaged in fighting with each and show no signs of attacking you. You are simply trying to extort what you can using the current situation to your benefit. I applaud your efforts, but they are unfortunately insufficient to make me anymore inclined to help you than usual. That is not to say England will not aid you, but you must make it worth our time. If you wish for Her Majesties navy to aid you then you will drop merchant tariffs on all English vessels by 50%. Additionally no tolls will be placed on the passage of military ships, and they will have expedited passage. After all they can't very well protect you if they're tied up paying tolls now can they.
 * England to the Duchy of Tangiers**

Earl Anderson Brewster, Minister of Foreign Affairs

A very interesting offer you have. I am intrigued. Unfortunately am somewhat busy in dealing with Golden Horde so I cannot fully consider your offer. But I would be interested in purchasing what you know of the Euorpan powers. Maybe you could keep an eye on them for me.
 * Russia to the Celestial Empire**

On the matter of trade. What price do you have in mind. Obviously it is not money, as I would not pay anymore than the reduction of tariffs, and you would not accept any less.

Tsar Varfolomei Petrov

Greetings, it is good to speak with a friendly neighbor. Indeed I would be interested in a cooperation pact. There is little of immediate concern for us to talk about, but it is always good to have friends is it not. As for your taxes I am afraid you are mistaken my friend I am not concerned with that at all. My empire has an entire coast on the Agean Sea. I suggest you tell whoever advised you that Bulgarian merchants were passing through Constantinople to learn to tell foreigners apart better. And as for spies. Well I admit they might be useful, but not on this fine day. I will however be sure to tell you if that changes, and by all means if there is anything you need do not hesitate to ask me in turn.
 * Bulgarian Empire to the Celestial Empire**

Tsar Krastyo Damyanov

It is true that our trade ships sail through Constantinople. But that is not a vital link for us. Far more sails through our own Suez Canal, although it is not surprising that you have overlooked it given that it was only completed recently. In fact there is little you have to offer that interests us currently. We are far more involved in our affairs in the east. We will however accept your offer of a cooperation pact. It cannot hurt to be on good terms.
 * Ottoman Empire to the Celestial Empire**

Sultan Bakr Mazin Ahmad

We do not wish for pirates to cross our lands, whatever your intentions might be. However something might be arranged. If you are interested wait at our northeastern borders and you will be contacted. Otherwise do not cross our airspace.
 * England to Loki's Brigade**

Earl Anderson Brewster, Minister of Foreign Affairs

Italian City States to the Birds of Prey We will not interfere.

German Duchies to Celts in Exile If you trully do not wish to subjugate our land then why do you ask us to join under your rule. You are not even native Germans. And we know you will eventually go to war with England which is not something we wish to be caught up in. We are however willing to ally with you. It is true that Hessen-Thüringia is expanding more rapidly than we are comfortable with. So will you accept some form of economic or defensive alliance.

German Duchies to Hessen-Thüringia It is true that these are turbulent times. We will accept a defensive alliance.

France to the United Irish-Celtic Clansmen War is not profitable for those who are engaged in fighting it. We have finally moved beyond the bloody battlefields of the past and now battle England in a war of commerce and merchant rivalries. Your offer may have merit, but tell us exactly what you want, and how we would gain from returning to those bloody battlefields.

Marquess Laurent Léon Bordelon, Minister of Trade