Diplomacy! (Game over!)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #0 (isolation #0) » Sun Feb 08, 2015 10:29 am

Time for another crack at the ultimate game of alliances and backstabbing! I'm looking for seven players to take up the mantle of major European powers and get to negotiatin'.

Rules are here and are fairly simple for new players - the complexity of Diplomacy is almost entirely in your dealings with other players rather than the mechanics themselves. If you've not played before, give them a look over to see if it's for you but newbies are certainly welcome. I'm also happy to take questions about the rules via PM.

I'll be modding, using jDip to process orders. (EDIT: After a crash, the game is now running on Backstabbr.)

Deadlines:

With the exception of Spring 1901, which will last for 96 hours, each Spring and Autumn phase will allow 72 hours for players to talk before orders must be submitted to me via PM. Retreats and build phases will be deadlined to 48 hours, or 72 hours if such time would include a weekend.

CDB-specific rules:

Do not attempt to deceive me with orders. If you send me an invalid order in Spring 1901 and I spot it before deadline, I will point this out to you and allow you to resubmit if you have time, but I will not do this in future turns. You may deliberately submit an invalid order but I will not attempt to 'correct' anything; invalid orders will be treated as if no order was submitted. You may ask me via PM what would and would not be considered a valid order if you need to do so.
When issuing convoy orders, I will accept either implict orders (A Lon - Pic) or explicit orders (A Lon - Eng - Pic).
If seven game years pass without a supply centre changing hands, the game will end in a draw between all remaining powers (it probably won't come to that).
If you send multiple sets of orders before deadline, I will take the most recent PM only.
All previous orders will be disregarded
so include a full list of orders in each new PM.
Please do not take screenshots of PMs sent about this game to pass on to other players; if you want to tell X what Y said to you, you should say it second-hand.

Signing up and power allocation:

I'll take the first seven players. When you /in, please send me a PM listing the seven great powers in preference order, with 1 being your most preferred and 7 your least preferred. You may not give more than one power equal ranking. I'll then resolve allocation based on preferences.

/in

1. Nexus
2. AcRv
3. DeasVail
4. 2birds1stone
5. Snakes
6. vonflare
7. Thurhame

Game history

Winter 1900: Game start
Spring 1901
Autumn 1901
Spring 1902
Autumn 1902
Spring 1903
Autumn 1903
Spring 1904
Autumn 1904
Spring 1905
Autumn 1905 - First elimination
Spring 1906
Autumn 1906
Spring 1907
Autumn 1907
Spring 1908
Autumn 1908 - Second elimination
Spring 1909
Autumn 1909
Spring 1910
Autumn 1910 - Third elimination, game called

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #5 (isolation #1) » Sun Feb 08, 2015 11:04 am

Any questions are certainly welcome in this thread before powers are allocated, and via PM at any time, though I obviously can't offer strategic advice. There's a treasure trove of strategy online - this library of possible openings for each power may come in particularly handy for the early turns.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #21 (isolation #2) » Mon Feb 09, 2015 7:59 pm

In post 20, Snakes wrote:I was looking forward to playing this game. But this is my first time and I'm not sure what I'm doing. If there's people who really want to play and would do a good job, I'm okay sitting out and watching.

Given that you wouldn't be the only person playing their first game, I don't see any particular reason why you should have to sit out, especially as there's not just one person left out. I'm just going to carry on with you in - if you change your mind, you've a few hours until I finish work and sort out power assignment to do so, but I'm quite happy to have you along!

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #22 (isolation #3) » Tue Feb 10, 2015 1:15 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 1, Winter 1900
Published in Zurich

SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION EPIDEMIC SWEEPS EUROPEAN HALLS OF POWER

By Reginald Miller, Explosion Correspondent

European powers have been rocked by the sudden and explosive deaths of several major leaders across the continent, throwing the region's delicate geopolitics into upheaval.

A mysterious illness set upon seven of Europe's biggest players, causing them to spontaneously combust peacefully in their sleep and prompting a scramble to promote new leadership into the power vacuum.

The Diplomatic Times

can confirm that the following new leaders have ascended to office:

HRH King Nexus I has been crowned in Britain.
President Snakes has been elected in France.
Kaiser Thurhame I has taken charge in Germany.
Pope AcRv I has been spat out by the conclave in Italy.
Tsar 2birds1stone has inherited the primacy in Russia.
Archduke DeasVail I has assumed control of Austria.
Sultan vonflare I has come to power in Turkey.

The spread of viral kaboom appears to have been contained to just the seven predecessors of these suddenly powerful people so panic should soon subside.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

L'Hérald Parisien:
PROTESTER HANDCUFFS SELF TO ARC DE TRIOMPHE AFTER ELECTION RESULT

"Why'd it have to be Snakes?" screams Lundi Anajônes, 57

The Budapest Sun:
IT'S AUSTRIA-HUNGARY, ACTUALLY, INSISTS LOCAL MAN

Angry letters to Swiss journalists ignored

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #23 (isolation #4) » Tue Feb 10, 2015 1:16 am

SPRING 1901

Spoiler: Power assignment summary

DEADLINE FOR ORDERS IS 96 HOURS FROM THIS POST.

Mod Tip:

You can always change submitted orders; I will take the most recent PM. Provisional orders submitted early in case of problems at deadline are a sensible idea.

Unit summary

Spoiler: Britain

Spoiler: France

Spoiler: Germany

Spoiler: Italy

Spoiler: Russia

Spoiler: Austria

Spoiler: Turkey

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #25 (isolation #5) » Tue Feb 10, 2015 3:21 am

Absolutely. You can talk to each other out of thread by PM, instant messenger, carrier pigeon, smoke signals or shouting. You can make public statements in this thread, if you wish, and they would be no more binding than something written out of thread. Communication can be done one-on-one or in groups as you see fit.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #27 (isolation #6) » Tue Feb 10, 2015 5:53 am

In post 26, Thurhame wrote:Just a clarification: Den borders Swe

Yes.

...and separates Ska from Bal, right?

Yes.

Does Hel border Bal?

No.

Does Aeg border Bla?

No.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #31 (isolation #7) » Tue Feb 10, 2015 7:53 pm

Yes, good point; I'll add mention of that to the OP. You can only report what Player X said to you second-hand, rather than show Player Y a screenshot of a PM from X. I can't police this directly so would ask that you report to me if someone does this.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #36 (isolation #8) » Fri Feb 13, 2015 1:05 am

Sure, I'll add in a countdown timer for the next deadline.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #42 (isolation #9) » Sat Feb 14, 2015 2:51 am

Spoiler: Spring 1901 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1901 orders on map

State of play, start of Autumn 1901

There are no retreats, so it is now

Autumn 1901

. Deadline for this phase is 72 hours, which I will now attempt to represent with a countdown timer:

(expired on 2015-02-17 13:52:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #43 (isolation #10) » Sat Feb 14, 2015 2:51 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 2, Spring 1901
Published in Switzerland

ITALY WINS BATTLE OF INNSBRUCK

By Reginald Miller, International Scuffle Correspondent

War came to Europe this spring as Italy assumed military control of Tyrolia, pushing German forces out of the region with victory at the Battle of Innsbruck.

Sources report that the Italian troops were able to triumph thanks to crucial support provided by nearby Austrian units, prompting speculation that the two powers have formed an alliance.

"Cooperation between Italy and Austria could be a key factor in determining the balance of power in central and southern Europe," observed Dr Lana Thrumblepouch of the Institute for Stating the Obvious.

However, some analysts have noted the build-up of Italian units on their border with Austria. With Europe still adjusting to its glut of new leaders, events could easily change complexion at short notice.

BRITAIN AND RUSSIA ON COLLISION COURSE IN SCANDINAVIA

By Pamela Noring, Trash-Talk Correspondent

Citizens of Scandinavia are living in a state of fear as British and Russian leaders publicly threaten war over control of the region.

The northern nations have enjoyed peace and independence for many years but local political analysts reacted with terror to the launching of British and Russian fleets towards Norway and Sweden, respectively, while King Nexus and Tsar 2birds1stone traded stern warnings over the international press.

"Scandinavia's mine," the Tsar declared at a press conference, urging Britain to "find your own supply centres". King Nexus has since been quoted as telling Russia to "bring it on".

Norwegian families are understood to be stockpiling lutefisk as panic rises, causing economic concerns in the area.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

Le Pamplemousse:
FRENCH NERDS FLOCK TO MADRID COMIC-CON

"We're all cosplaying for Saving Private Ryan," say mob in military uniforms

Ankara Observer:

SURPRISINGLY COLD WATER SPOILS BLACK SEA REGATTA

Traditional Turkey-Russia boat race abandoned by mutual consent

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #47 (isolation #11) » Tue Feb 17, 2015 2:51 am

Spoiler: Autumn 1901 orders

Spoiler: Autumn 1901 orders on map

State of play, retreat phase, Autumn 1901

The German Army in Munich must retreat after being dislodged. Its valid destinations are Ruh, Kie, Ber and Sil.

Thurhame, your deadline for a retreat order is 48 hours from this post but, if you decide sooner where you would like your unit to move and PM it to me before that point, I will resolve early and move onto the build phase. This wouldn’t be allowed much time in a face-to-face game so we’ll try to move through it quickly if we can.

Deadline: (expired on 2015-02-19 13:52:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #48 (isolation #12) » Tue Feb 17, 2015 2:51 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 3, Autumn 1901
Published in Switzerland

MUNICH FALLS IN COMBINED ASSAULT

By Alessio Di Faidutto, Schadenfreude Correspondent

Italy's savage campaign against Germany secured a major victory this autumn as the Bavarian stronghold of Munich fell before the combined might of the Papal and French armies.

Pope AcRv seemingly has much of Europe on his side as France followed Austria by committing significant aid to a train of destruction which set north from Venice earlier this year and which now leaves Kaiser Thurhame scrambling to reorganise his troops even as part of his forces secure gains further north.

The German army laid claim to Denmark and Holland this year but may be forced to immediately turn those newly won resources towards a counterinsurgency campaign on home soil.

Civilians trapped in occupied Munich are reported to have been quickly pacified by a rapid proliferation of delicious sausage-topped pizzas, leaving the Pope in unqualified control of the city.

RUSSIAN COASTAL OFFENSIVE BEATS BACK TURKEY IN RUMANIA

By Pamela Noring, Aggressive Splishy-Splashying Correspondent

Russia won the first major victory in an escalating border scuffle with Turkey by overpowering Ottoman forces to secure control of Rumania this autumn.

An army division sent to capture the region by Sultan vonflare was outmanoeuvred by land and sea units at the Battle of Constanta, Russian naval personnel moving inland from there to establish a base of operations in Bucharest once the fight was won.

"I think I speak for everyone when I say that I am glad that this territorial dispute is over and that we in Rumania can look forward to years of uninterrupted peace under the glorious reign of Russia," Dorin Capreanu, president of the Bucharest Association of Naïve Dreamers (BAND), told

The Diplomatic Times

.

However, it is understood that the situation is far from resolved, with tensions likely to continue after Turkish naval forces took advantage of the Bear's focus on land operations to assume supremacy in the strategically crucial waters of the Black Sea.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Vienna Enquirer:

AUSTRIA ESTABLISHES GARRISON IN GREECE

'Tzatziki' to long-term growth of empire, say under-pressure subeditors

Moscow Morning Times:

SULTAN VONFLARE STRUCK BY APHASIA

Turkish leader spews garbled nonsense-words at press conference, clearly unfit to rule

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #52 (isolation #13) » Tue Feb 17, 2015 5:34 am

Germany retreats into Ruhr.

State of play, Winter 1901

It's time for winter adjustments.

Britain

controls 4 supply centres and has 3 units, so may

build 1 unit

.

France

controls 5 supply centres and has 3 units, so may

build 2 units

.

Germany

controls 4 supply centres and has 3 units, so may

build 1 unit

.

Italy

controls 5 supply centres and has 3 units, so may

build 2 units

.

Russia

controls 6 supply centres and has 4 units, so may

build 2 units

.

Austria

controls 5 supply centres and has 3 units, so may

build 2 units

.

Turkey

controls 4 supply centres and has 3 units, so may

build 1 unit

.

Deadline for build orders is 48 hours from this post. Unlike the retreat phase, we will take the full deadline to allow discussion.

Deadline: (expired on 2015-02-19 16:34:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #58 (isolation #14) » Thu Feb 19, 2015 5:36 am

Spoiler: Winter 1901 orders

Spoiler: Winter 1901 orders on map

State of play, start of Spring 1902

It is now Spring 1902. Deadline for orders is 72 hours from this post, represented below with a handy countdownamabob:
(expired on 2015-02-22 16:36:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #62 (isolation #15) » Sun Feb 22, 2015 5:36 am

Spoiler: Spring 1902 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1902 orders on map

State of play, Summer 1902

Germany's A Ruh must retreat into Bel or Kie.

Thurhame didn't pick up his orders reminder and hasn't posted on site since his last in this thread. It's possible that a busy weekend could have prevented him from submitting orders in time (consider this your reminder to submit provisional orders as early as possible, if so - even if you change them before deadline) so I am going to give him a little bit more time to check in and issue his retreat but, in case he doesn't show up, I'm also looking into possible replacements. Deadline for a retreat decision will be 48 hours if Thurhame checks in within that time but I won't set a counter as it may well take longer should a replacement not be immediately available.

Thank you to those of you who have been prompt and active in participation so far.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #63 (isolation #16) » Sun Feb 22, 2015 5:37 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 4, Spring 1902
Published in Switzerland

DESPERATE MANHUNT FOR FLEEING KAISER

By Lubov Tryndina, Missing Persons Correspondent

Germany is in chaos after the mysterious disappearance of Kaiser Thurhame I prompted a breakdown in military communications which saw home defence forces isolated and crippled by French invaders.

The Kaiser was last seen in public calling for volunteers to locate a missing member of the resistance forces tasked with freeing the city of Munich from Italian occupation, prompting some to speculate that he may have become the latest victim of a serial abductor roaming the nation.

As politicians in Berlin scrambled to restore order to an increasingly terrified populace, the lack of a figurehead overseeing a response to the Franco-Italian offensive caused paralysis in the ranks and is understood to have directly led to the routing of an undermanned garrison in the Ruhr.

"The first 72 hours or so are crucial in a case like this," Przemyslav Galuska, who has no qualifications as a missing-persons investigator but reads a lot of crime fiction, told

The Diplomatic Times

. "If anyone has any information about the whereabouts of the Kaiser, please come forward. But not to me - I have no jurisdiction in this matter."

TURKISH DIVISION OBLITERATED AT SOFIA

By Reginald Miller, Gore Correspondent

A sizeable portion of the Turkish land army was killed in a brutal Russo-Austrian assault on Bulgaria this spring in what some witnesses are calling the Sofia Massacre.

Ottoman forces, seeking to establish a presence on mainland Europe as unrest sweeps the continent, are understood to have been moving through the Bulgarian capital in a build-up to an intended incursion into Rumania but were ambushed and caught in a pincer movement by Austrian troops arriving from their western rear.

Some stragglers were forced back into Constantinople to lick their wounds but a majority of units stationed in the area were trapped between two enemies and shown no mercy by the relentless Austrian push.

Analysts say that Turkey could respond with an attempt to retake their ground via coastal assault, with some in Bulgaria still loyal to the Sultan who have not yet been suppressed by the occupiers, but the Ottomans' ambitions have been severely dented by this painful defeat.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

New Musical Express
:
STREETLIGHT MANIFESTO 'OUR NEW JAM', INDICATE POLITICAL ELITE

Documents unexpectedly leaked to
NME
suggest sudden but enthusiastic interest in Westminster for Ska

Corriere della Sera
:
BUILDERS UNION UNDER PRESSURE OVER SHODDY WORK

New artillery in Venice and Naples have first tours delayed by incomplete metalworking

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #66 (isolation #17) » Sun Feb 22, 2015 6:53 am

OK; be sure to keep a close eye in future!

As before, hard deadline for your retreat is 48 hours from post 62 but a swift decision is preferable.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #68 (isolation #18) » Sun Feb 22, 2015 7:02 am

Sure. Germany retreats A Ruh - Kie.

State of play, Autumn 1902

Deadline for Autumn orders is 72 hours from this post or, countdownerated: (expired on 2015-02-25 18:03:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #71 (isolation #19) » Tue Feb 24, 2015 7:17 am

Order resolution will not be as prompt after deadline tomorrow as has been the case before, due to work. It will be done ASAP later that night. I may be lenient on orders sent between deadline passing and my getting home, but everyone is recommended to aim for before deadline.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #74 (isolation #20) » Wed Feb 25, 2015 12:27 pm

Spoiler: Autumn 1902 orders

Spoiler: Autumn 1902 orders on map

State of play, Autumn 1902 retreats

Germany's A Ber must retreat into Pru.
Turkey's F Aeg may retreat into Smy or Eas.
Turkey's F Bla may retreat into Ank or Arm.

vonflare, as the only player with decisions to make, you may post your retreats publicly in the thread. As ever, absolute deadline is 48 hours from this post but sooner is appreciated.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #75 (isolation #21) » Wed Feb 25, 2015 12:27 pm

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 5, Autumn 1902
Published in Switzerland

BRITAIN MARCHES ON ST PETERSBURG

By Alessio Di Faidutto, Scarf-and-Warfare Venn Diagram Correspondent

The conflict originally threatened nearly two years ago between Britain and Russia looks on the verge of eruption after His Majesty King Nexus I's forces bore down on St Petersburg.

A bold military maneouvre from British generals saw the nation's armies feint an attack on Tsar 2birds1stone's holdings in Sweden, forcing the Bear to devote manpower to its defence, before diverting into neighbouring Finland and ferrying over a greater force from the Isles.

With the bulk of Tsarist forces occupied further south in a border squabble with Turkey, the royal legions are now in a position to mobilise unpredictably in the spring after wintering under the northern lights.

Reports that SAS commandos have taken Father Christmas hostage in Lapland as leverage against Russia in any imminent negotiations are as yet unconfirmed but analysts note that Santa has been conspicuous by his absence ever since the British entered the region, with no verified sightings of either him or an elf of any kind.

TURKISH SHIPS SPRING A LEAK

By Lubov Tryndina, Backwards Sailing Correspondent

An attempt by the Ottoman Empire to retake Bulgaria via a coastal assault ended in catastrophe this autumn as both halves of the split Turkish navy were defeated in its surrounding waters.

After a humiliating defeat at the Sofia Massacre, Sultan vonflare I is understood to be orchestrating a full-scale retreat as both Austrian and Russian ships threaten his home coasts.

As Archduke DeasVail consolidates his hard-won power in Bulgaria and the Aegean Sea, it leaves the Italo-Austrian alliance in undisputed control of the Balkans and the southern Mediterranean.

Turkish ship-building magnate Gulsu Izzet, founder of imperial navy supplier SailEZ, told

The Diplomatic Times

: "Any accusation that our craftsmanship is to blame for this setback is a reprehensible lie. We have funded several research papers that clearly state that tissue paper is the best material from which to build boats as it is thin and therefore unlikely to sink."

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

Le Pamplemousse:

FRENCH WAFFLE INDUSTRY IN MASSIVE BOOM

"Peacefully acquired" influx of delicious batter could break the delicately latticed framework of western European geopolitics, revealing gooey centre

Das Leadergefundendiplomatischupdatenpapier:

KAISER FOUND ALIVE AND SPIFFING

Thurhame I resurfaces in Kiel, suddenly drinks nothing but Earl Grey

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #78 (isolation #22) » Wed Feb 25, 2015 12:39 pm

Germany retreats A Ber - Pru.
Turkey retreats F Bla - Ank and F Aeg - Smy.

State of play, Winter 1902

The following powers have winter adjustments to make:

Britain

controls 4 supply centres and has 4 units, so makes

no adjustments

.

France

controls 6 supply centres and has 5 units, so may

build 1 unit

.

Germany

controls 3 supply centres and has 4 units, so must

disband 1 unit

.

Italy

controls 6 supply centres and has 5 units, so may

build 1 unit

.

Russia

controls 6 supply centres and has 6 units, so makes

no adjustments

.

Austria

controls 6 supply centres and has 5 units, so may

build 1 unit

.

Turkey

controls 3 supply centres and has 3 units, so makes

no adjustments

.

Deadline for build orders is 48 hours from this post. Countdown ho!
(expired on 2015-02-27 23:39:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #90 (isolation #23) » Sat Feb 28, 2015 1:53 am

Spoiler: Winter 1902 orders

Spoiler: Winter 1902 orders on map

State of play, start of Spring 1903

It is now Spring 1903. Deadline for orders is 72 hours from this post, also representable as:
(expired on 2015-03-03 12:53:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #91 (isolation #24) » Mon Mar 02, 2015 3:20 am

Resolution of orders tomorrow will likely be delayed by several hours due to work. I will amend the deadline to reflect this:

(expired on 2015-03-03 20:00:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #92 (isolation #25) » Tue Mar 03, 2015 10:47 am

Spoiler: Spring 1903 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1903 orders on map

State of play, Summer 1903

Germany's A Kie may retreat into Den.
Russia's F Swe may retreat into Den or Bal.

A reminder that, if two units attempt to retreat into the same province, both will be disbanded. Powers may choose to voluntarily disband a unit instead of retreating.

Deadline for retreat orders is 48 hours from this post or, ideally, ASAP.

(expired on 2015-03-05 21:45:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #93 (isolation #26) » Tue Mar 03, 2015 10:47 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 6, Spring 1903
Published in Switzerland

BRITAIN ON ALERT AS FRENCH SAIL NORTH

By Reginald Miller, Sudden-but-Inevitable Betrayal Correspondent

Great Britain is on high alert as a surprise French advance into her sovereign waters was only partially headed off.

After years of quiet detente across the English Channel, the Royal Navy responded to reports of movement from Calais to find part of a seemingly threatening French detachment encroaching upon the demilitarised zone.

While those ships were warded away from the south coast, Her Majesty's forces were spread too thin, owing to the ongoing conquest of Scandinavia, to prevent some from sailing north-west, with President Snakes's navy spotted between Ireland and the vital port of Liverpool.

With the Isles relatively unguarded while the war in the north-east progresses apace, many squeaky accents on Merseyside are calling for urgent aid from King Nexus but analysts suggest that no section of the armed forces could mobilise for home quickly enough to prevent a possible invasion.

GERMAN REFUGEES FLEE RELENTLESS INVASION

By Lubov Tryndina, Ruthless Slaughter Correspondent

Border patrols north and east of Germany are reporting a huge influx of refugees as invading French, Italian and Austrian armies continue to ravage their homeland.

Kaiser Thurhame is understood to have been completely stripped of material influence over his major cities and has withdrawn under close guard from his most trusted remaining generals.

The true depth of cooperation between the three onrushing forces is yet to be confirmed but sources say that Pope AcRv and Archduke DeasVail are amicably drawing up plans to divide control of the "liberated" areas, with Austria now believed to have assumed power in Berlin as Italy moved west.

The harshest of the fighting came in the Netherlands, where German occupiers suffered catastrophic losses under French assault. It leaves German citizens both at home and abroad fearing for their very way of life.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Constant Constantinopler:

'FREE HUG DAY' BOOSTS NATIONAL MORALE

Turkish citizens take time to offer mutual love and compassion after harrowing recent losses

Russia Sport Daily:

4x1477100m OLYMPIC TEAM TRAINING GOING WELL

Long-distance runners repeat Sevastopol-to-Moscow trail in gruelling, monotonous regime

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #94 (isolation #27) » Wed Mar 04, 2015 12:57 am

Correction: A Kie could also have retreated into Ruh. This was taken into account while submitting orders.

Germany retreats A Kie - Den.
Russia retreats F Swe - Bal.

State of play, Autumn 1903

It is now Autumn 1903. Deadline for orders is 72 hours from this post, represented through the medium of countdowneration here:
(expired on 2015-03-07 11:58:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #106 (isolation #28) » Sat Mar 07, 2015 1:42 am

Spoiler: Autumn 1903 orders

Spoiler: Autumn 1903 orders on map

State of play, Winter 1903

No retreats are necessary, so we move into winter adjustments.

Britain

controls 4 supply centres and has 4 units, so makes no adjustments.

France

controls 8 supply centres and has 6 units, so

may build 2 units

.

Germany

controls 1 supply centre and has 2 units, so

must disband 1 unit

.

Italy

controls 6 supply centres and has 6 units, so makes no adjustments.

Russia

controls 5 supply centres and has 6 units, so

must disband 1 unit

.

Austria

controls 8 supply centres and has 6 units, so

may build 2 units

.

Turkey

controls 2 supply centres and has 2 units, so makes no adjustments.

As the new deadline includes a weekend, builds are due 72 hours from this post. Count that shit down!
(expired on 2015-03-10 12:43:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #107 (isolation #29) » Sat Mar 07, 2015 1:42 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 7, Autumn 1903
Published in Switzerland

CRISIS IN CONSTANTINOPLE

By Pamela Noring, Turkish Undelight Correspondent

Turkey became the latest great power to suffer invasion of its sovereign territory by the Italo-Austrian alliance this autumn as the defensive stronghold of Constantinople was breached by Archduke DeasVail's navy.

With Germany all but demolished under the heels of its central neighbours, attentions have turned east, with a new power base in the Balkans providing support for a coastal incursion.

The bulk of Ottoman infantry forces are understood to have been wiped out in a brutal seizing of the Eurasian city and there are fears that the remaining, disparate divisions of the Sultan's navy may struggle to coordinate a response.

Austrian forces are already making themselves at home in Constantinople. General Soundhoff Müsik told

The Diplomatic Times

: "As this is now an Austrian city, we're thinking of changing the name. Nothing springs to mind, though..."

RUSSIA CLOSES NORTHERN BORDERS

By Alessio Di Faidutto, Isolationism Correspondent

Russia's cession of control of Sweden to Britain has prompted a scramble to reinforce its northern defences against potential further attacks from His Majesty's armies.

Sources in St Petersburg report an influx of military personnel as fleets patrolling nearby waters are hastily recalled to man garrisons across the Tsar's vast borders, while concerns grow regarding an alleged build-up of Austrian personnel to the west.

Military insiders have speculated that Tsar 2birds1stone may be forced to cut back on defence spending as a result of Russia's losses in Scandinavia, though a partial retreat from Britain towards its threatened home territory could offer a brighter future.

The Diplomatic Times

understands that monocles and Earl Grey have been banned in some northern cities as Tsarist media increases anti-British propaganda to blame for increased austerity.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Liverpool Echo:

EHHHHH

Ehhhhhhhhhh

The Turin Bugle:

'MECHANICAL MAN' PUT DOWN AFTER BOMB THREAT

Enigmatically named madman, claimed to be made of clockwork, is killed, may be linked to Kaiser kidnapping

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #115 (isolation #30) » Tue Mar 10, 2015 3:33 am

Spoiler: Winter 1903 orders

Spoiler: Winter 1903 orders on map

State of Play, Spring 1904

We now move into Spring 1904, so that'll be 72 hours from this post as your deadline for orders. Das countdown:
(expired on 2015-03-13 14:34:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #121 (isolation #31) » Fri Mar 13, 2015 3:35 am

Spoiler: Spring 1904 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1904 orders on map

Spoiler: State of play, Summer 1904

Turkey's F Ank must retreat into Arm or be disbanded. As vonflare is on V/LA, I am going to go ahead and assume that he retreats into Arm, but will roll back if he strenuously objects to that for some reason.

State of play, Autumn 1904

We now move into Autumn 1904. Deadline for orders is 72 hours from this post and thus doth I count it down:
(expired on 2015-03-16 14:35:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #122 (isolation #32) » Fri Mar 13, 2015 3:35 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 8, Spring 1904
Published in Switzerland

POLAND ABANDONED AS AUSTRIA LOOMS

By Reginald Miller, Tempting Target Correspondent

Polish citizens are bracing for their lives to be upended as ruling Russia moved its armies south and away from the borders of Warsaw, leaving the city undefended from nearby Austrian troops.

Archduke DeasVail has had infantry deployed in Silesia and other surrounding provinces for many months, initially as part of his successful conquering of Berlin, but analysts note that the Russian border may be his only feasible direction for expansion should he wish for his alliance with Italy to hold.

While the Bear had men stationed in Moscow, ostensibly in position to defend either Poland or St Petersburg as needs were, that garrison was seen redeploying south in the spring as part of an assault on Turkey - indeed, one aided by Austria itself as a combined task force saw Tsar 2birds1stone seize control of Ankara.

The southern operation also leaves Russia's holdings in Rumania at risk of an Austrian power grab, though many men could be called upon on either side if such a battle were to be fought over the winter. Indeed, the only thing that is certain along this long border this autumn is that nothing is certain.

FRENCH TROOPS LAND IN WALES

By Pamela Noring, Navarin d'Agneau Correspondent

The French invasion of Great Britain continued apace this spring as President Snakes ordered infantry to land in Wales.

With fear rampant after Liverpool fell in the autumn, British naval forces watched as troops were convoyed through the French-occupied English Channel, with a forward operating base now set up in Cardiff.

Further from the Isles, King Nexus's armies withdrew from threatening the Russian north, with a counteroffensive expected to be launched from Scandinavia in the coming months.

Britain may be buoyed, however, by reports that French soldiers exploring Wales are beginning to question what the benefits of such an invasion are supposed to be.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Daily Danish:

WOUNDED GERMANY EXPORTS HIT CRIME DRAMAS

TV viewers in Italian-occupied homeland captivated by murder mystery about knitted jumpers and survivor's guilt

Mediterranean Mariner Magazine:

STAY AT HOME THIS AUTUMN

Italian and Austrian fleets converge near Greek waters, prompt fears of tension within alliance

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #123 (isolation #33) » Mon Mar 16, 2015 8:46 am

Spoiler: Autumn 1904 orders

Spoiler: Autumn 1904 orders on map

State of play, Winter 1904

We now move into winter adjustments.

Britain

controls 3 supply centres and has 4 units, so

must disband 1 unit

.

France

controls 9 supply centres and has 8 units, so

may build 1 unit

.

Germany

controls 1 supply centre and has 1 unit, so makes no adjustment.

Italy

controls 6 supply centres and has 6 units, so makes no adjustment.

Russia

controls 6 supply centres and has 5 units, so

may build 1 unit

.

Austria

controls 8 supply centres and has 8 units, so makes no adjustment.

Turkey

controls 1 supply centre and has 1 unit, so makes no adjustment.

Deadline for build orders is 48 hours from this post. Count 'er down!
(expired on 2015-03-18 19:46:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #124 (isolation #34) » Mon Mar 16, 2015 8:46 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 9, Autumn 1904
Published in Switzerland

CHIEFNAPPER STRIKES AGAIN, ARCHDUKE AND SULTAN MISSING

By Alessio Di Faidutto, Mass Disappearance Correspondent

Europe's biggest kahunas are living in fear after Archduke DeasVail of Austria and Turkey's Sultan vonflare became the latest victims of the kidnapper who abducted Kaiser Thurhame two years ago.

The world believed that the culprit had been brought to justice last year when a man known only by the pseudonym Sudo Nym was killed in a vigilante shooting on the streets of Turin but it appears that nobody is safe at the top level of international politics.

Sultan vonflare is widely reported to have taken a leave of absence during some dark and stressful times for his country, with leaked documents suggesting that he intended to visit Italy.

The Archduke, however, is completely unaccounted for. Some rumours claim that he was taken by a copycat criminal, while others allege that Sudo Nym - said to be composed of mechanical parts by some conspiracy theorists - in fact survived his supposed death or faked it altogether.

Investigators assured

The Diplomatic Times

that they are pursuing the two leaders "to the minimum required standard of urgency".

LONDON'S BURNING

By Reginald Miller, Capital Calamity Correspondent

France captured the British capital of London in a swift and deadly assault this autumn, leaving the Empire crippled.

The disaster that many had feared ever since President Snakes caught King Nexus unprepared with a surprise invasion came to pass as more French infantry landed on British shores, several divisions marching from Dover into the capital with support from those already installed to the west.

While His Majesty's navy attempted to disrupt the French juggernaut, it was unable to move quickly enough back from its campaign in Scandinavia to prevent a huge blow in the cross-Channel war.

Sir Timothy Chips-Bressington, fleeing into Yorkshire along with his 46 attendants and servants, told

The Diplomatic Times

: "My word, it's a quite frightful kerfuffle back there. Those bounders are piling up crumpets on the street and burning them. Crumpets! Oh, the humanity!"

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Marseille Scout:

UM, GUYS, WHAT IS THAT

Italian fleet spotted in Tyrrhenian Sea, motives unknown

The European Nominative Determinism Enthusiasts Association Quarterly Members' Newsletter:

RUSSIA DOES GOD'S WORK

Armenia finally occupied by an army, members invited to sign petition for its permanent residence

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #127 (isolation #35) » Thu Mar 19, 2015 1:32 am

Spoiler: Winter 1904 adjustments

Spoiler: Winter 1904 orders on map

State of play, Spring 1905

It is now Spring 1905. Deadline for orders is 72 hours from this post or, expressed numerallically:
(expired on 2015-03-22 12:33:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #129 (isolation #36) » Sun Mar 22, 2015 3:02 am

Spoiler: Spring 1905 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1905 orders on map

State of play, Summer 1905

Turkey's F Smy can retreat into Eas or Syr. Deadline is 48 hours from this post (vonflare's V/LA ends during that time so I expect to hear from him). Count 'er doooooown!
(expired on 2015-03-24 14:03:04)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #130 (isolation #37) » Sun Mar 22, 2015 3:02 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 10, Spring 1905
Published in Switzerland

TENSION ON AUSTRO-ITALIAN BORDER

By Reginald Miller, Stare-off Correspondent

The long-maintained alliance between Italy and Austria is in danger of fracturing as the two powers stare off across their long, shared borders.

While joint operations between the nations were instrumental in the swift and decisive taking and division of German territory and resources, communications appear to have broken down in recent months.

Though Pope AcRv is understood to have encouraged Archduke DeasVail to invade Smyrna in his neighbour's name and was prepared to offer troops in support of such an attack, Austria instead cooperated to install a Russian presence in the Turkish coastal city, while fortifying its borders in central Europe.

Austrian and Italian fleets are now divided over the waters of the Mediterranean while their armies are crowded together on the continent, with analysts warning that open conflict may be the only logical consequence if either seeks to further expand their empire.

PANIC: BRITAIN FLEES THE ISLES

By Pamela Noring, Royal Retreat Correspondent

In perhaps the greatest humiliation in his country's proud history, King Nexus has surrendered the British Isles to France and fled to Scandinavia.

After being caught unawares by a surprise attack in 1903, His Majesty was unable to mount a quick enough defence of his holdings as President Snakes's troops swarmed the island, capturing London within a year.

The Diplomatic Times

understands that the king escaped the sack of his capital and was smuggled out on the last Royal Navy vessel to escape across the North Sea. He has since set up court in exile in Stockholm.

Many British citizens left behind to suffer occupation have gone on strike in protest, which in turn prompted them to be fast-tracked for French passports.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Smyrna Post:

WHAT IS HOME BUT WHERE WE SLEEP AT NIGHT?

Last Turkish personnel leave the motherland, south probably warmer anyway

Mediterranean Real Estate Monthly:

PANIC AS PEACE INFLATES HOUSE PRICES

Property value skyrocketing in untouched North Africa, Piedmont and Tuscany. "Why won't someone invade?" cry first-time buyers

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #133 (isolation #38) » Sun Mar 22, 2015 8:56 am

Thank you! Glad to hear.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #136 (isolation #39) » Mon Mar 23, 2015 3:08 am

Turkey retreats into Syr.

State of play, Autumn 1905

It is now Autumn 1905! Due to a quirk in my schedule on the 26th, deadline will be a little longer than usual, set at 10am GMT on Friday 27th. Get on yer numbers here:
(expired on 2015-03-27 10:00:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #140 (isolation #40) » Fri Mar 27, 2015 3:02 am

Spoiler: Autumn 1905 orders

Spoiler: Autumn 1905 orders on map

State of play, Autumn 1905 retreat phase

Italy's A Tyr may retreat into Pie or disband.
Austria's A Ber may retreat into either Sil or Pru or disband.

Deadline for these orders is 72 hours from this post, due to the weekend, but sooner is preferred.
(expired on 2015-03-30 14:03:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #141 (isolation #41) » Fri Mar 27, 2015 3:03 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 11, Autumn 1905
Published in Switzerland

IN MEMORIAM: SULTAN VONFLARE I, 18SOMETHING-1905

By Lubov Tryndina, Permanent Human Expiry Correspondent

The once-great Ottoman Empire met a final end this autumn as Sultan vonflare I admitted total surrender and walked out into the deserts of Syria to die in shame.

After vonflare's rise to power in late 1900, Turkey had begun an effort to expand its borders, crossing into Bulgaria on its way into the European continent at large, but was pegged back by Austro-Italian aggression before a Russian offensive spelled the end for the Ottoman regime.

Turkish forces were expelled from their own borders earlier this year, at which point it was widely understood that its status as a major power was reaching its end, making vonflare the first major leader to witness his empire's demise since conflict began spreading across Europe.

Travellers into Damascus reported sightings of a deranged-looking man in a crown shouting at camels in the sandy wilderness shortly before confirmation of the Sultan's death reached citizens in Smyrna.

CHAOTIC STALEMATE AS AUSTRO-ITALIAN ALLIANCE BREAKS

By Pamela Noring, Territorial Hokey-Cokey Correspondent

Former allies Austria and Italy fell into bloody warfare this autumn but, despite heavy fighting all along their mutual borders, no significant gains were made by either side.

As each nation's military commanders attempted to outmanoeuvre their opponents, the two powers seized each other's German holdings in Munich and Berlin, while an Italian invasion of Archduke DeasVail's base in Bulgaria was offset by Austrian forces sailing into an unguarded Tunis.

If either power could be separated, then a skirmish in Tyrolia could prove crucial, where Austrian infantry eventually triumped in the Second Battle of Innsbruck to push Pope AcRv's occupiers further away from the bulk of the fighting, a move that may have repercussions when hostilities resume - as anticipated - in the spring.

Ben Hammock, a spokesman for the Red Cross, has issued a plea to the two nations to contain the fighting in order to spare civilian lives. "Seriously, could they please make up their mind?" he told

The Diplomatic Times

. "I don't get travel expenses."

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Times of
London
Stockholm:

FRENCH SURROUND SCANDINAVIA

British government-in-exile hastily drafts advertising campaign promoting attractions of St Petersburg

The Warsaw Guardian:

NAVY LOSES NATIONAL STATUE-OFF

Citizens sponsored to stand still for charity drive, fleet invading Sweden denies Malawi clean water

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #145 (isolation #42) » Sat Mar 28, 2015 2:43 pm

Austria retreats A Ber - Sil.
Italy retreats A Tyr - Pie.

State of play, Winter 1905

It is now time for winter adjustments.

Britain

controls 2 supply centres and has 3 units, so

must disband 1 unit

.

France

controls 10 supply centres and has 9 units, so

may build 1 unit

.

Germany

controls 1 supply centre and has 1 unit, so makes no adjustment.

Italy

controls 6 supply centres and has 6 units, so makes no adjustment.

Russia

controls 7 supply centres and has 6 units, so

may build 1 unit

.

Austria

controls 8 supply centres and has 8 units, so makes no adjustment.

Turkey

controls 0 supply centres and has 1 unit, so

must disband its final unit and is eliminated

.

Deadline for adjustments is 72 hours from this post, allowing for weekend time. Down that count!
(expired on 2015-04-01 01:44:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #148 (isolation #43) » Wed Apr 01, 2015 7:27 am

Spoiler: Winter 1905 orders

Spoiler: Winter 1905 orders on map

State of play, Spring 1906

It is now Spring 1906. Deadline for orders is 72 hours from this post. Get that down all over your count!
(expired on 2015-04-04 19:28:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #149 (isolation #44) » Sat Apr 04, 2015 8:46 am

Spoiler: Spring 1906 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1906 orders on map

State of play, Summer 1906

Britain's F Nwy may retreat into Ska or disband. Nexus better not take 48 hours from this post because I'd murder him IRL for actuals but we'll give him a few minutes.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #150 (isolation #45) » Sat Apr 04, 2015 8:46 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 12, Spring 1906
Published in Switzerland

INTRIGUE! ITALY AND AUSTRIA PARTNERS AFTER ALL

By Reginald Miller, Distancing and Buddying Correspondent

Military analysts across Europe were left stunned this spring as it was revealed that Italy and Austria had continued to work together despite their alliance having appeared to dissolve late last year.

The two central powers suddenly look to be on good terms again as they conducted joint operations in Germany, intended to expel the French occupiers in the west of the country.

All three sides met at the Battle of Dortmund as President Snakes's troops were caught unaware but no gains were made by either side in a brief stalemate. However, Papal infantry took advantage of their political deception to storm Marseille, in a move that is understood to have rocked the French government.

"Whooooooooa! Did you see that?" international relations blogger Falafel Wordcrumpet told

The Diplomatic Times

. "I thought they were, like, not OK ... but I think they're OK! That is BANANAS! Right?"

NOR WAY! FRANCE SEIZES OSLO

By Alessio Di Faidutto, Lutefisk and Pillaging Correspondent

The British Empire is on the verge of total, final collapse after being violently evicted from Norway by the pursuing French invasion force.

Having abandoned his native shores to President Snakes's control last year, King Nexus has not found respite for his weary soldiers as their long winter in Scandinavia was interrupted by a surrounding navy.

Though marines stationed in Oslo attempted to fight off nearby ships, a coordinated assault including troops convoyed in from Britain's own former borders was enough to break their defensive lines.

His Majesty's most trusted personnel are now converging on his court-in-exile in Stockholm in a last-ditch attempt to protect the crown.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

Da!:

SOAP ACTRESS'S INDOLENCE INSPIRES FANS

Lethargy craze sweeps nation as
Secret Police Street
trendsetter Nadia Yemelina says "chillaxing" is secret to her success

The Graz Telegraph:

WORLD BEYOND MOROCCO 'A LIE', CLAIMS EXPLORER

Fabian Trundlemeier reports 'impassable barrier' near Rabat, probably just making excuses for giving up draining desert trek

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #151 (isolation #46) » Sat Apr 04, 2015 8:52 am

Britain retreats into Ska.

State of play, Autumn 1906

Deadline for autumn orders is 72 hours from this post. Get! Your! Count! Ooooooooooon!
(expired on 2015-04-07 20:52:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #155 (isolation #47) » Tue Apr 07, 2015 11:07 am

Spoiler: Autumn 1906 orders

Spoiler: Autumn 1906 orders on map

State of play, Autumn 1906 retreat phase

France's A Bur must retreat; it may move to Gas, Par, Ruh or Pic or disband. After that, we will process adjustments. 48 hours, but quick as you can please because of the following:

Heads-up: I'm going to be away at the UK Scummers Meet from Friday 10th-17th. I'll have limited access and what access I have will probably be devoted to Team Mafia commitments, so I think the simplest thing to do is declare that the Spring 1907 movement deadline will be a full week. My apologies for the inconvenience.

We'll still resolve the winter adjustments before I go, though.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #156 (isolation #48) » Tue Apr 07, 2015 11:07 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 13, Autumn 1906
Published in Switzerland

GERMAN REMNANT COMES TO FRANCE'S AID

By Pamela Noring, Underdog Correspondent

The remnant of the once-great Germany returned to its own native soil this Autumn - but only to play kingmaker in France's battle to take hold of its former territory.

With President Snakes's campaign of European domination opposed by an Austro-Italian alliance, few had expected the battered Kaiser Thurhame to return to the scene of his own painful defeat.

German forces have been occupying Denmark for several years, limiting its influence to that of a resupply point for a friendly Russian naval task force waging a long and unsuccessful siege on Sweden.

But the Kaiser's support proved decisive as France mitigated the hefty blow of losing the home port of Marseille by massacring an unsuspecting Italian division holding Kiel.

The Great War for Europe is far from over, with Austrian forces routing Snakes's regiments at the Battle of Dijon, but Germany could yet play a greater role in its outcome than many had expected.

FRENCH HOLD NORWAY, THREATEN RUSSIA

By Reginald Miller, Scandiskirmish Correspondent

While the war in mainland Europe brings as many setbacks as steps forward for France, the Gallic conquest in the north continues apace.

After seizing Norway from a reeling Britain in the spring, French troops held off a desperate counterassault to secure a beachhead in Scandinavia - and now President Snakes may be turning his eye to Russia, analysts suggest.

The frigate

Canard d'Or

was sighted entering the traditional Russian waters of the Barents Sea this autumn, which could see it directly threaten St Petersburg next year, though Tsar 2birds1stone has been carefully fortifying the city in recent months.

"

Mais non

, we are simply here to fish. We are but 'onest fishermen," Admiral Oueylla Discotheque told

The Diplomatic Times

on the deck of her heavily armed and formidable vessel. "Le Tsar 'as nothing to worry about."

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Tunis Take:

SIGNAL CONFUSION BLOCKS INCOMING SHIPPING

Intern at local port accidentally tells two ships laden with 'violent-er, vital goods' to stay out all winter

Kaliningrad Business Insider:

WORKFORCE DEPRESSION ON THE RISE

Office workers claim repetitive orders from management are undermining morale

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #158 (isolation #49) » Tue Apr 07, 2015 12:02 pm

France retreats A Bur - Par.

State of play, Winter 1906

It's now time for winter adjustments.

Britain

controls 1 supply centre and has 2 units, so

must disband 1 unit

.

France

controls 11 supply centres and has 10 units, so

may build 1 unit

.

Germany

controls 1 supply centre and has 1 unit, so makes no adjustment.

Italy

controls 6 supply centres and has 5 units, so

may build 1 unit

.

Russia

controls 7 supply centres and has 7 units, so makes no adjustment.

Austria

controls 8 supply centres and has 8 units, so makes no adjustment.

There's not a lot to do and I would like to get it done on the night before I go rather than wake up early to resolve, so I'm going to set the deadline a little under 48 hours - if there's an issue with this, let me know and we'll go with the full 48 hours. Assuming no issue, though, we'll go for:
(expired on 2015-04-09 22:00:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #159 (isolation #50) » Thu Apr 09, 2015 10:23 am

Spoiler: Winter 1906 orders

Spoiler: Winter 1906 orders on map

State of play, Spring 1907

It is now Spring 1907. Deadline for orders, as previously stated, is extended by my V/LA at the UK Scummers Meet. So here's your lllllllooooooooonnnnnnngggg cccoooooooooouuuuuunnnntttdddoooooooowwwwwnnnnnn:
(expired on 2015-04-17 13:00:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #164 (isolation #51) » Sat Apr 18, 2015 8:27 pm

Orders will be resolved later today - a bout of Nexusitis is holding up the editor of the Diplomatic Times from prepping a suitably snappy front page.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #165 (isolation #52) » Mon Apr 20, 2015 3:17 am

Spoiler: Spring 1907 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1907 orders on map

State of play, Autumn 1907

Thank you for your patience with the mod's absence and illness! We're back on track now. So let's get on with the autumn orders phase, which will be deadlined to 72 hours from this post. Reunion countdown!
(expired on 2015-04-23 15:18:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #166 (isolation #53) » Mon Apr 20, 2015 3:17 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 14, Spring 1907
Published in Switzerland

WARRING POWERS CLASH IN RUHR

By Alessio Di Faidutto, Kinetic Stalemate Correspondent

The fate of central Europe remains tensely in the balance as neither side of the war enveloping the continent was able to secure a decisive victory at the Second Battle of Dortmund.

With the battle lines drawn more clearly than ever before between the formidable French army and the combined might of Italy and Austria, the world now awaits a breakthrough in the ravaged land that used to be Germany, the clearest border ground between the two sides of the conflict.

France looked to press its advantage of having a larger force at its disposal than either of its separate opponents by using its foothold in Belgium as a staging ground for a push further into the Ruhr, attempting an ambitious maneouvre that would swing reinforcements from Norway to the low countries as it did so.

But Austria and Italy engaged Snakes's troops both in a fight for Dortmund and nearby in Kiel, successfully disrupting the French deployment to hold the status quo in Germany while the allied powers aim to make quicker gains further south.

POPE SNEAKS INTO SPAIN

By Pamela Noring, Andalusian Religious Affairs Correspondent

Italian forces conspired to install themselves in Spain after a last-second diversion of French resources away from holding the region opened a door for Pope AcRv this spring.

His Holiness, who continues to administrate Italy's military movements from the Vatican rather than leading the charge himself, orchestrated a naval invasion of Cartagena. His forces' seizure of Marseille in the winter allowed for vital support as the nearby navy breached President Snakes's defences.

However, there is concern in Italian ranks that Spain may be difficult to hold in the autumn, with French units surrounding the Iberian nation and a reprisal of sorts likely.

"I don't really want to get too attached to these new faces," local baker Rosa Navas admitted to

The Diplomatic Times

of the occupation, "but I do hope they have time to travel to Madrid before they're kicked out. It's almost time for Comic-Con."

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Constant Constantinopler:

RUSSIA APPOINTED AS CITY'S BABYSITTER

Glorious Italian leaders leave citizens at mercy of neighbours, ask politely not to throw rager while away

The Diplomatic Times Times:

EDITOR APOLOGISES TO SHAREHOLDERS FOR SPRING ISSUE

Low-quality bulletin delivered late to Zurich publishers, crossword not even finished

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #167 (isolation #54) » Fri Apr 24, 2015 11:03 pm

Sorry for the delay. Last two days got very busy in ways I hadn't anticipated.

Spoiler: Autumn 1907 orders

Spoiler: Autumn 1907 orders on map

State of play, Winter 1907

Time for winter adjustments!

Britain

controls 1 supply centre and has 1 unit, so makes no adjustment.

France

controls 11 supply centres and has 11 units, so makes no adjustment.

Germany

controls 1 supply centre and has 1 unit, so makes no adjustment.

Italy

controls 5 supply centres and has 6 units, so

must disband 1 unit

.

Russia

controls 9 supply centres and has 7 units, so

may build 2 units

.

Austria

controls 7 supply centres and has 8 units, so

must disband 1 unit

.

The builds window includes a weekend, so deadline is 72 hours from this post. Git 'er counted:
(expired on 2015-04-28 11:04:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #168 (isolation #55) » Fri Apr 24, 2015 11:03 pm

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES TIMES

Issue 162, Autumn 1907
The No.1 publication for fans of

The Diplomatic Times

GIANT IGUANA JAMS DIPLOMATIC TIMES PRESSES

By Skeet LaRoux, Reptilian Delay Correspondent

The publication of the latest issue of

The Diplomatic Times

has been pushed back to Winter 1907 due to the discovery of a giant iguana inside the newspaper's printing presses, jamming the mechanism.

Sources say that the iguana is "definitely 100 per cent legit" and "not made up to cover for a late publication and lack of time to write articles", and animal control experts are said to have arrived on the scene and begun attempting to coax out the massive lizard by tempting it with lemon cake.

"HOLY SHIT, WHAT THE SHIT IS THAT," the

Times

's Unbridled Panic Correspondent, Reginald Miller, told

The Diplomatic Times Times

. "THEY'RE NOT SUPPOSED TO GET THAT BIG! GAME OVER, MAN! GAME OVER!"

When pressed for comment,

Times

editors were adamant that the paper would resume publication "to its usual standard" in the winter.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #172 (isolation #56) » Wed Apr 29, 2015 8:03 pm

Sorry again about the wait. I really wanted to get a newspaper done but all it's done is delay things, so let's just get you the orders out and I'll try to fill one in after the fact.

Spoiler: Winter 1907 orders

Spoiler: Winter 1907 orders on map

State of play, Spring 1908

It is now Spring 1908. Orders are due 72 hours from now - or, represented numerically:
(expired on 2015-05-03 08:04:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #193 (isolation #57) » Mon May 04, 2015 1:26 am

Due to complications at work, I'm going to have to delay resolution until tomorrow. If anyone would like to change their orders before then, feel free. I'll set the new deadline to:

(expired on 2015-05-05 12:00:00)

Fingers crossed, this really ought to be the last time that this happens.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #194 (isolation #58) » Tue May 05, 2015 6:04 am

Spoiler: Spring 1908 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1908 orders on map

Spoiler: State of play, Summer 1908

Austria's A Bur may retreat into Gas or be disbanded. I am going to assume that DV would like it to stay in play, but please feel free to correct me if that's not the case and I'll fix it.

State of play, Autumn 1908

It is now Autumn 1908. Deadline is 72 hours from this post. Represented using numerical hieroglyphics, that'd be:
(expired on 2015-05-08 18:05:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #195 (isolation #59) » Tue May 05, 2015 6:04 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 15, Spring 1908
Published in Switzerland

BLOOD ON THE TAPAS

By Reginald Miller, Continental Carnage Correspondent

Months of fighting across French native and occupied territory reached a new high-water mark of violence this spring as Italy seized control of Spain thanks to a bloodbath at the Battle of Barcelona.

Pope AcRv's forces snuck from their forward operating base in Marseille through a powerful surrounding navy on their way into the Iberian peninsula and overwhelmed the marine units stationed there, though it was not without considerable cost.

With combat far from contained all over French holdings, Italy's vacation of the vital southern port allowed President Snakes to recapture it from the fanatic religious insurgents. Meanwhile, further on the mainland, the Pope's Austrian ally suffered losses as the might of the French army expelled its infantry from a tactically crucial position in Burgundy.

With Munich now perhaps within striking distance for France but much still uncertain about the armies surrounding Spain and southern France, there is little hope for an imminent end to the brutal violence that continues to encompass continental Europe.

AUSTRIAN INTERFERENCE DELAYS RUSSIAN FLEET DEPLOYMENT

By Lubov Tryndina, Balkan Obstruction Correspondent

After a resurgent Russia seized key territories in southern Europe last year, many have speculated about the damage that could be done if the Bear can reposition its navies in the Mediterranean.

Despite having little by way of manpower in that part of the world, however, Austria conspired to hold at bay that particular threat for a little longer as a skirmish in Bulgaria held up redeployment plans vital to 2birds1stone's hopes of bringing his fleets through the Bosphorus strait.

When a division of Russian infantry attempted to vacate the Constantinople area to Bulgaria in order to allow through naval troops, they found themselves surprised by Archduke DeasVail's men just south of Plovdiv, both forces eventually retreating after a brief scuffle.

The escalating conflict with France as well as recent losses to the Tsar have left Austria struggling to regroup but further strategic insight of this nature could yet see it bounce back in the continuing war.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Turin Bugle:

TROOPS FLEE GIANT IGUANA

Terrifying reptile loosed near Swiss border, drives local military to Venice in angry rampage

Sweden Today:

'COMFORTABLE' WOMAN UNABLE TO REMEMBER LIFE BEFORE RUSSIAN SIEGE

Ingrid Wilhelmsson, 63, plays bridge with "philosophical" midshipmen on evenings and weekends

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #211 (isolation #60) » Fri May 08, 2015 11:35 pm

Spoiler: Autumn 1908 orders

Spoiler: Autumn 1908 orders on map

Spoiler: Autumn 1908, before retreat phase

Britain's A Swe must retreat into Fin or be disbanded. As this absolutely doesn't matter at all, I'm just going to move on as there are no other retreats.

State of play, Winter 1908

Britain

controls 0 supply centres and has 1 unit, so

must disband its final unit and is eliminated

.

France

controls 13 supply centres and has 10 units, so

may build 2 units (as Mar is occupied)

.

Germany

controls 1 supply centre and has 1 unit, so makes no adjustment.

Italy

controls 4 supply centres and has 4 units, so makes no adjustment.

Russia

controls 10 supply centres and has 9 units, so

may build 1 unit

.

Austria

controls 6 supply centres and has 7 units, so

must disband 1 unit

.

Deadline for adjustments is 48 hours from this post. Numberiffically, that's:
(expired on 2015-05-11 11:36:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #212 (isolation #61) » Fri May 08, 2015 11:35 pm

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 16, Autumn 1908
Published in Switzerland

IN MEMORIAM: KING NEXUS I, 18SOMETHING-1908

By Alessio Di Faidutto, Mortal Coil Emigration Correspondent

The historic line of British monarchy came to an end this autumn as Nexus I, King-in-Exile and last of his line, was killed in Stockholm while the last shreds of his broken empire burned around him.

Having been expelled from his native Isles by French assault several years ago, Nexus had already seen his country's relevance on a global scale utterly ripped away and had spent the final years of his reign occupying Sweden and fighting off a long-term invasion by Russia.

"It's where he would have wanted to go," royal butler Gregory Barrington-Crowne told

The Diplomatic Times

. "Ever since he ascended to the throne, Scandinavia was more or less the only thing on his mind. I'm just glad that he got to see it before ... excuse me, I'm afraid I've got something in my ... ah, must be the pollen ... ahem."

With no heirs to his name and no empire left to rule, what was ostensibly still called Great Britain has now well and truly collapsed, full a part of the ever-expanding French territories, thanks to decisive military aid from the German remnant.

AUSTRO-ITALIAN ALLIANCE COLLAPSES

By Lubov Tryndina, Desperate Stabbing Correspondent

After many years of fruitful cooperation, the alliance between Italy and Austria ended in bloodshed this autumn as, with France and Russia making gains on either side, the two former friends squabbled over what remains of central Europe.

Though the two have feigned disharmony before, the breakdown of relations appeared to be final, with victorless skirmishes in Tunisia and a chaotic occupation of each other's cities along the nations' natural borders appearing to achieve nothing in the grander fight for both sides' survival.

The collapse of the central powers' pact was signalled by Pope AcRv, who announced in a bizarre public press conference his imminent betrayal of Archduke DeasVail, an act which some analysts suggest likely gave Italy's neighbour the chance to react in prevention of a decisive defeat.

That compassion, however, looks to have cost both sides, as a failure to cooperate on the western front saw French navies retake Spain from Italy after a surprise invasion earlier this year.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

Der Berliner:

EUROPEAN HOKEY-COKEY CHAMPIONSHIP DRAWS ALL-STAR COMPETITORS

Representatives from across Europe put one in and take one out as city gets tournament fever

Copenhagen Journal of Psychology:

GERMANS 'MOST POWER-DRUNK' IN EUROPE

Average occupier feels "more influential" than anyone else in Europe, study shows

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #217 (isolation #62) » Sat May 09, 2015 5:37 am

Turkey has been eliminated again.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #233 (isolation #63) » Mon May 11, 2015 1:54 am

When trying to resolve build orders today, my jDip program threw a fit and crashed repeatedly. Then I set up a new file and replayed the entire game up to this point, at which point it again crashed. I'm going to look into fixes or alternative hosting programmes, but resolution will be delayed while I do that. Apologies!

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #234 (isolation #64) » Mon May 11, 2015 3:05 am

OK, the game is now being hosted on Backstabbr and there should be no further issues, fingers crossed.

Spoiler: Winter 1908 orders

Spoiler: Winter 1908 orders on map

State of play, Spring 1909

It is now Spring 1909. Deadline for orders is 72 hours from this post. Numberographicaciously, that'd be:
(expired on 2015-05-14 15:06:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #245 (isolation #65) » Wed May 13, 2015 3:31 am

All of Britain's troops have been transferred to Turkey.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #247 (isolation #66) » Thu May 14, 2015 4:07 am

Spoiler: Spring 1909 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1909 orders on map

State of play, Autumn 1909

There are no retreats, so we move straight into the Autumn. Due to my schedule on Sunday, deadline will be slightly extended. Here's your countdown:
(expired on 2015-05-17 19:00:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #248 (isolation #67) » Thu May 14, 2015 4:07 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 17, Spring 1909
Published in Switzerland

STRIKE IN POLAND DISRUPTS RUSSIAN CAMPAIGN

By Lubov Tryndina, Union Activism Correspondent

Russia's attempts to position itself against the looming spectre of a French push into eastern Europe took a blow this spring as infantry in Poland went on strike against what they claim are "impractically and unfairly demanding" orders.

Troops stationed in Warsaw were seen as crucial to Tsar 2birds1stone's plans to expand into both Prussia and Galicia but the chain of command broke down in unexpected fashion, allowing the Italian and Austrian units in the Bear's way to hold position between the continent's two main powers.

"I just can't handle any more of this. It's completely ridiculous for command to expect us to fight two battles at the same time," an private posted to Warsaw told

The Diplomatic Times

, asking to be referred to only as Rock Hugepenis to protect his anonymity.

"I've put up with a lot for this job. I put my life on the line every year and I don't even get dental. But if the Tsar wants us to do the work of two armies then I'll do it as soon as he comes down here himself and shows us how it's done. Yeah, I thought not."

FRANCE BEARS DOWN ON DENMARK

By Alessio Di Faidutto, Mercy Kill Correspondent

France's plan to secure total domination of Europe looks to be entering its final phase as President Snakes moves troops into position to bring an end to the German remnant.

Ever since the overrunning of his native territory at the start of this century, Kaiser Thurhame has controlled the remains of his empire from his last stronghold in Denmark, where he has operated lately as something of a vassal state to his powerful neighbour.

However, speculation has run rampant in leaders' recent press conferences that France's ally may now be more of an obstacle than an aid to their eventual glory, though some analysts suggest that pronouncements from the likes of Pope AcRv were primarily intended to destabilise relations between the two powers.

If recent deployments are anything by which to go, the pontiff may have got his wish. Snakes now has divisions surrounding Danish shores and backup close by, leaving many German citizens concerned that their way of life may finally be about to come to an end.

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The New Roman Times:

AUSTRIAN MILITARY IN 'DEEP COVER', SAY OPTIMISTS

Locals in denial over former allied armies flooding into major cities

The Liverpool Echo:

CITIZENS STRUGGLING TO ADAPT TO FRENCH RULE

Scousers photographed staring in bewilderment at steady diet of frogs' legs

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #251 (isolation #68) » Sun May 17, 2015 10:19 am

Spoiler: Autumn 1909 orders

Autumn 1909 orders on map/State of play for retreats

Italy's F Wes may retreat into Lyo or Tys, or disband.
Italy's A Pru may retreat into Sil, or disband.
Austria's A Gre may retreat into Alb or disband.
Austria's A Gal may retreat into Sil or Boh, or disband.

Deadline for retreat orders is 48 hours from this post, or sooner if orders are prompt! Let's try to squeeze out this and the build phase before I go V/LA for Chambermeet, during which time resolution will be slower.
(expired on 2015-05-19 22:20:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #252 (isolation #69) » Sun May 17, 2015 10:19 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 18, Autumn 1909
Published in Switzerland

'RESURGENT' GERMANY RETAKES KIEL

By Pamela Noring, Unterhund Correspondent

Having long been thought irrelevant on the grander geopolitical scale, Germany took its first steps back towards becoming a major European power once again this autumn as its exiled military retook the port city of Kiel.

Kaiser Thurhame and his people had been stranded in occupied Denmark since being ousted from the last of their native lands by an Austro-Italian alliance in early 1903, with all signs pointing to a swift end to their empire as it was known.

However, after years of avoiding the worst of the continent's heavy fighting, as well as practical cooperation with fearsome neighbour France, Germany seized its opportunity and could be on the rise again.

Some analysts have suggested that the Kaiser might have been gifted back his territory by France as reward for his friendship but an enthusiastic German press release received by

The Diplomatic Times

is adamant that its military "kicked all sorts of butt to get back in here", urging locals who had all but forgotten what it was to be German that "seriously, we're huge freaking heroes. Now, who do we have to invade to get some schnitzel around here?".

POPE ON THE RUN AS ITALY CRUMBLES

By Reginald Miller, Roman Flammability Correspondent

Catholics everywhere are in spiritual crisis as Pope AcRv was evicted from his seat in the Vatican City by the merciless advance of Austrian invaders, leaving the Italian civilisation close to destruction.

Though the Papacy arranged for a seizure of its former ally's holdings in Tunisia during the autumn, Italy's own shores were neglected as Archduke DeasVail's soldiers ran riot to put to an end once and for all the neighbouring nation's long friendship. The central power also saw its holdings in Berlin overrun as pressure from France and Russia on either side of its patrolling forces proved too much to hold back.

The Italian peninsula is now entirely under Austrian occupation, with the Pope understood to have fled to nearby Trieste, where what remains of his army retains a beachhead in enemy territory.

"This is awful. I don't know what we'll do if they capture the Pope," refugee Carmella Bertoncini told

The Diplomatic Times

. "Do we have to adopt the Austrian religion? What do they even believe in, anyway? Because I can tell you right now that there just isn't enough evidence for the existence of Arnold Schwarzenegger."

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Gentleman Adventurer:

FRENCH MAVERICKS HUNT GIANT IGUANA

Team led by rakish Pascal du Tournezadroite chases alleged local monster in hills of Piedmont

Russia Today:

POLISH LABOUR DISPUTE RESOLVED

Promise of spoils from "liberated" currywurst sees Warsaw military finally agree to invade Berlin

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #261 (isolation #70) » Tue May 19, 2015 12:13 pm

Italy disbands F Wes and A Pru.
Austria retreats A Gre - Alb and A Gal - Sil.

State of play, Winter 1909

It's time for adjustments!

France

controls 14 supply centres and has 12 units, so

may build 2 units

.

Germany

controls 2 supply centres and has 1 unit, but cannot build as no home centre is unoccupied.

Italy

controls 2 supply centres and has 2 units, so makes no adjustment.

Russia

controls 11 supply centres and has 10 units, so

may build 1 unit

.

Austria

controls 5 supply centres and has 6 units, so

must disband 1 unit

.

Deadline for build orders is 48 hours from this post. If all orders are in early, I may resolve slightly ahead of this deadline if it ends up being more convenient before I head to Orlando.
(expired on 2015-05-22 00:13:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #263 (isolation #71) » Thu May 21, 2015 12:16 pm

Spoiler: Winter 1909 orders

State of play, Spring 1910

It is now Spring 1910! Deadline for orders is 72 hours from this post - I'll aim to be as quick about resolution as I can during Orlandomeet but bear with me!
(expired on 2015-05-25 00:16:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #277 (isolation #72) » Wed May 27, 2015 10:34 am

Backstabbr is harder to negotiate on ipad than i expected

Hope to have resolution tomorrow, sorry for the wait

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #279 (isolation #73) » Sat Jun 06, 2015 5:20 am

Apologies, everyone - I've not opened Diplomacy stuff as I just never got a good opportunity while V/LA to get on Backstabbr and sort all the moves. Enormous thanks for your patience - I'm now home and about to battle jet lag for a shift at work but resolution WILL come tomorrow now that I have my PC again.

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #281 (isolation #74) » Sun Jun 07, 2015 9:07 am

Spoiler: Spring 1910 orders

Spoiler: Spring 1910 orders on map

State of play, Autumn 1910

Newspaper delayed because I'm writing this while at work but definitely past time to just get this up no matter what! Once again, thanks for your patience and hopefully we can smash out the end of this game without much hassle. I certainly don't have any more holiday planned for a while...

Deadline for Autumn 1910 orders is 72 hours from this post. I'll prod everyone to confirm that we're back in business.
(expired on 2015-06-10 21:08:00)

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #283 (isolation #75) » Fri Jun 12, 2015 10:46 am

Spoiler: Autumn 1910 orders

Spoiler: Autumn 1910 orders on map

State of play, Winter 1910

France's A Tyr may retreat into Pie or disband. For the sake of a clear state-of-play image, I've retreated it into Pie, but I'm pretty sure Snakes is not going to worry about changing it - because...

FRANCE IS GUARANTEED 18 CENTRES BY AUTUMN 1911.

After consultation with mykonian to confirm, I am satisfied that there is no way to prevent this outcome. France takes Tunis in the Spring and can guarantee holding it in the Autumn. The only French centre that is at risk in the Autumn would be Rome but France can guarantee that it is either held or swapped in a 1-for-1 trade by moving Tys - Nap in the Autumn (Tys being impossible to dislodge even if Italy and Russia join forces). Every other French centre cannot be taken in 1911, which will give Snakes 18 centres. I'm calling it here.

Congratulations, President Snakes - France has won!

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #284 (isolation #76) » Fri Jun 12, 2015 10:46 am

THE DIPLOMATIC TIMES

Issue 19, Autumn 1910
Published in Switzerland

EUROPE BOWS TO FRANCE AS CONTINENTAL OVERLORDS

By Reginald Miller, Total Military Domination Correspondent

Europe has entered a new era of French domination after the combined powers of the continent offered their surrender to President Snakes this winter.

After a full decade of war, France's superior tactical manoeuvring overcame the oft-disrupted resistance of its rivals to the east and military commanders accepted in the wake of Snakes's annexation of German independent territory that no force could maintain opposition to the generals of Paris.

As an armada of French warships bore down on Italian-held Tunis to set up an unbreakable line of defence, celebrations began across the Low Countries and the British Isles, now bastions of loyalism to the Republic.

"This is a glorious new dawn for France and for Europe," Herve Jacquescousteau, Snakes's press secretary, told

The Diplomatic Times

. "The whole continent can see that, not only does our beautiful country boast unrivalled strength, but also unparallelled culture and refinement. I SAID, UNPARALLELLED," he continued, prodding a cowering Austrian with his snail-print cane.

He added: "In no way does this development signal any impending barbarism towards those whom we have subjugated. Every non-French citizen should feel completely safe under our government."

GIANT IGUANA TAMED BY FRENCH SOLDIERS, MURDERS LITERALLY EVERYBODY ELSE

By Pamela Noring, Reptilian Megaslaughter Correspondent

Every non-French citizen was brutally slaughtered this winter after a detachment of the President's army tamed and then unleashed a vicious giant iguana discovered in the hills of Piedmont.

The 39th Baguette Regiment had been stationed in Innsbruck before being pushed back in France's ultimately successful battle for control of all of Europe, the unit retreating to a previously occupied camp near Turin.

Private Philippe Philoppe describes to

The Diplomatic Times

the scene. "We were making croque-monsieurs over the campfire one night when we heard an unearthly growl from the treeline. Giselle, our recon woman, was the first to get up and investigate, just as the iguana burst out in front of us.

"She reached out despite its renewed roars to pet its frills, which seemed to calm it down somehow. Then it was just a question of playing with it for a few hours - you know, fetch, roll over, Scrabble, the usual - and it really came around to all of us.

"Sergeant Bof then suggested that we use it to furiously murder literally anyone who's not French, and we all agreed it was a cracking idea." Philoppe wipes a tear from his eye. "He's probably still out there somewhere - maybe in Asia now - tearing people limb from limb. Godspeed, Sudo. I miss you already."

EUROPEAN PRESS ROUND-UP

The Danish Stockholm-Syndomer:

GERMANY UTTERLY DESTROYED, REDUCED TO AFTERTHOUGHT IN CONTINENTAL PRESS

Dying loyalists to Kaiser Thurhame croak in last breath that lack of front-page obituaries consitutes massive disrespect

The Catholic Chronicle:

POPE GOES BACKPACKING IN EASTERN EUROPE

AcRv and retinue of bodyguards hitch-hike to Budapest, inadvertently hailed as rulers before iguana massacre

ChannelDelibird · Post Post #307 (isolation #77) » Sat Jun 13, 2015 9:13 am

In post 300, JDGA wrote:Also, massive congratulations to CDB for modding a Diplomacy to completion for what I'm fairly sure is a first for MishMash~

I'm as surprised as anyone!

Thanks to everyone for sticking this out, with no replacements and a minimum of NMRs. I enjoyed modding for you and I'm grateful for your patience during my time away at the meets.

I might run another one at some point, but not for a little while. If someone fancies stepping up, go for it!