Destiny of Empires [Diplo Game] [Story Thread 6 - March 2011]

[France (DoE)]

As the sun rose, Marshal Maray gave the signal. The catapult artillery advanced and fired on the defenders of Plymouth, a combined force of longbows and muskets. Had time allowed, a more careful siege would have been conducted. But time was of the essence as the general feared further English reinforcements. The musket men themselves had arrived just two days earlier. As the catapults fired on the archers defending the city with little effect, Marshal Maray feared this would be a costly day. His fears would come true.

The catapults did manage to do some damage, but the units were destroyed in the assault. They were followed by the 34h Royal Regiment and the 3rd Heavy Cavalry. Both units fought bravely and inflicted heavy casualties on the defenders. But very few of the attacking troops were left standing.

The 14th Royal Regiment advanced on the much weakened English muskets. They were confident that they would quickly end the battle.



Perhaps it was the superiority of the weaponry. Perhaps it was sheer desperation by the beleaguered defenders. Perhaps it was the whims of war. But the few remaining English muskets released volley after volley into the advancing macemen. A handful of the French troops reached the city defenses but were quickly finished off by the English.

On the heels of the 14th came the 11th Royal Regiment, veterans from Cadiz. They took losses, but following as closely as they were, they escaped teh worst of the English musketry fire. They breached the city defenses, and in the ensuing hand-to-hand fighting, subdued the stubborn English musket men.



The battle was nearly over. The Palace Guard Horsemen entered the city to round up the remaining English archers, and open the main gates to the city to the remainder of the French army.

The objective had been achieved, but the cost was very high. Marshal Maray looked out over the field scattered with French dead and wounded. He prayed this was not a bad omen for the future and wondered how and where this war would end.

[France (DoE)]

On French Claims


...France, there is no justification for aggressive war, nor for aggressive dogpiling.

... your simple lies and half-truths will not persuade us.

....Your greed and sadism shine through the thin veils of "justification" and "security" you have tried to abruptly toss over the face of this war.

... You are but international muggers, bloody opportunists, now stealing bread from peasants of the English countryside to feed your villainous bands of thieves and murderers as they aim to steal yet more for King and Country.

.... as there is no inspiration in common thuggery.

.... So, you will make more poems of royal murder and royal lies, a people hopelessly obsessed with power and its machinations, in thrall to your barbaric royalty, unquestioning of its bloody and cruel nature, a nation crippled intellectually and scientifically by its military establishment, its purpose now clearly evident and on display for the world to see.

"And, sire, what reply to we write to this, this diatribe of ... I am not sure what to call it."

The King chuckled. "I know Marc, it is very 'pointed', isn't it. If I was not aware of Incan history and affairs, I would almost think these are the ravings of a madman, or at least a person heavily influenced by narcotics. As was the case with the crew of that Incan fishing boat. What was its name again? And where did it finally end up anyway?"

Marc Renaud, Minister of Foreign Affairs replied "Somewhere in the med, Sire. Neandor is what we last heard."

"Amazing voyage though. You have to respect their seamanship and sense of adventure, even if their ruler is somewhat of a lunatic".

"So, Sire. Our reply? Our rebuttal?"

"Nothing Marc. Our friends know us well. As do our enemies. I don't think the Incan view is going to change much. Besides, we have a war to fight."

[France (DoE)]

"I've found your mouse, sir..."
"Excellent! Give it to me at once, I must send these orders immediately."
"Well, sir, there is a problem... it is dead, sir."

King Phillipe took the several flights of stairs to descend deep into the chambers of the palace. There he met the head of French Security, Monsieur Robert Blanc.

Blanc: "Sire, good evening. What brings you down here."

King Phillipe: "Good evening Robert. I was just wondering how our ninja cat program was progressing."

Blanc: "Better than we expected, Sire. Here, let me explain......"

[Inca (DoE)]

Domain Unregistered.
To view, register at:
bit/ly/imageshack-domain

[Germany (DoE)]

Veneta steadies his forces as Europe plunges deeper...



OOC - what happened to the movie I posted here? It's a 20 sec YouTube clip.
OK, Windows 64 bit IE does NOT have a Flash adin to support this... fyi

[Inca (DoE)]

"Here, sir, here is your new courier mouse," announced the emperor's assistant.

"What?! What is this, it is but a fraction of the size of my last mouse. There had better be a good reason for this..." the emperor replied with some annoyance.

The assistant, visibly distraught, said, "well, sir, it really was all they had. You said you wanted one with no tail, and those species are more expensive. And you said you didn't want to pay more than 25 incos for one, and, well, sir, this is the best we could do with those orders." He was shaking and in such a contorted bow that his ankles, knees, hips, chest, elbows, front of his head, and back of his head were all touching the floor while his ass did jut out quite profusely into the air.

"Ridiculous! My old mouse hadn't but cost 25 incos, and it was much larger and more capable," the emperor now yelling.

Rapidly, the assistant responded in alarming tones, "but, sir, look, this mouse you can quickly set how fast it will respond and make it do many complicated tricks by waving your hands. It is superior, and in time you will get used to its size. I am sorry, but we are not in Europe! It is quite difficult to obtain such niceties, as we have closed borders now with half of that continent, and another quarter of it lays in ruins." He began waving his hands about in the air as the small mouse performed amusing little tricks, happily running to and fro in well choreographed haste.

The emperor slowly stood up and bellowed, "this is not acceptable! Not at all! To the gallows with you!" The emperor pointed damningly at the assistant, his visage fixed in unimaginable hatred.

"The gallows? No, please, sir, anything but that!" the bow contorted itself into a sort of pretzeled pretzel shape and the outrageous form then somehow managed to move itself towards the emperor.

"No, the gallows!"

"But...

sir....

m, what are the gallows again, sir?" the assistan asked confusingly.

"The gallows! They are, of course...... I'm not quite sure. But, to them! Now!" the emperor would not be distracted from his pure hatred.

"You're not quite sure, sir?"

Pressed, however, he had to give way a bit. For a moment, his demeanor let up. "Well, I imagine they are quite nasty. Yes, quite nasty indeed, my ex-assistant." His angry visage returned, although somewhat half-heartedly now.

"Nasty, sir? Where are they exactly?"

"Well, um, they sound like they should be underground. Yes, quite deep underground, where the heat and humidity would be quite unbearable." The anger left again, now lost in a creative act.

"Oh dear, and what do they do there?" The assistant still quite heavily alarmed and contorted.

"I'm not sure, but some quite nasty, nasty things, you can bet." The emperoro said, paused, and added authoritatively, "I mean, gallows, sounds a bit like wallow doesn't it? Yep, it's going to be quite nasty, and you're going to spend a good amount of time doing that whole 'wallowing' thing, I'm sure." A self-congratulatory smile crept across his face.

"Oh dear..."

"Yes, and, hm, there will be willows as well." He added, positively.

"Oh, willows, sir? I do quite fancy willows..." The assistant picked up a bit, the pretzeled pretzel was in danger of becoming only a signle level of contortion now.

"Yes, willows, but... but, they will hang you from them upside down and bounce you up and down like this." The emperor added menacingly, bouncing a small pendant from a chain that lay around his neck.

"Oh no... well, actually... that kind of looks like a good bit of fun, sir." The pretzel was now just a typical sort, and the assistant was almost smiling.

"Well, yes, actually," his mood picking up, "it does look like a lot of fun." He was silent for a moment, lost in thought. "You know what, assistant," he said in a cheery mood, "I think I will join you there for a bit. I could use it right now, war in Europe and all. Will be like a spa treatment." The emperor relaxed quite visibly.

"Sir, I don't think it's really meant to be relaxing or spa-like," said the heretofore unmentionable new assistant.

"What? Rubbish. It will be quite relaxing, what with the warm, humid air, salty natural springs, and willow bouncing," replied He.

"Sir, there's... it's not quite like that."

"Well, we'll see about that. To the gallows! To the gallows with both of us!" Bellowed the king, and off he and his old assistant went.


Historians are still unsure of what happened to Makato Guachullo. For whatever reason, his reign ended after the sack of Plymouth, and the throne was soon taken up by a lowly assistant, a first in Inca history. The assistant was soon taken up by a pike and placed on the top of Mount Capaco. This is simply the very best guess of the field of Inca History in the acclaimed Atkins Academy in L'chulla. Some other historians, quite insecure over their field's general lack of credibility in the eyes of 'harder' fields of inquiry, have taken some issue with it, but no one quite cares what they think, being a bunch of buzzkills as they are.

[Ottoman Empire (DoE)]

News Bulletin...

Ottoman Science Initiative



Upon appointment as the Sultan of the Ottoman Turks, Ahmed IV announced that the Ottoman people would "Embark upon a new, unprecedented age of Scientific Discovery... No more would the Ottoman people be mired in the dark ages of ignorance and backwardness characteristic of the prior regime."

Sultan Ahmed began this initiative by immediately commisioning massive scientific initiatives, and recruiting as many citizens as possible into the program. Critics claim that the long hours and depression in the nations food production as a result of the program was causing starvation and a mass exodous of the populace, but reportedly, Sultan Ahmed has been pleased with the results, claiming... "Our Science Program has yielded promising results, including advances in international seafaring, Philisophical theory as well as advances in irrigation and Empire Management"...



Unrest returns to Turkey!!!


Demonstrations and calls for regime change have broken out all over the Empire. Conservatives demand a return to the old ways, and abandonment of the new scientific reforms. Additionally, supporters and Opponents of the War against France clash in the streets.

In other news...

A star is born...



Reports are coming in all over the Ottoman Empire of a so-called "Messiah child" or "Chosen one". Theologians are currently studying Ottoman prophecy to determine whether this birth coincides with any legends or myths... some are speculating that it was the scientific rennaisance that led to the fulfilment of the prophecy.

... more details to follow...

[Calanthian]

Teotihua Canal is opened
From our reporter in Teotihua

It is a glorious day for the Camaxtlian Aztec empire. We have been able to connect the great ocean, also known as the Pacific, with the eastern ocean, also known as the Atlantic. We are the builders of a true world wonder the Teotihua Canal.

As part of the opening ceremonies two vessels from our Incan neighbors entered the canal and succesfully emerged on the other side.
The Camaxtlain-Aztec spectators were awed by the grandeur of this occasion. The sight of two, so wonderfully modern, ships against the amazing background of the Teotihua Canal.




Arxitect Ima Kewond Erf Ullthings was pleased with what he saw, the ten thousand workers had done an amazing job..

[Inca (DoE)]

Can't see a bunch of images on this page, fyis.

[England (DoE)]

The Iceland War Council

The worst part of being a courier is bringing bad news. Especially news as bad as this. James bowed low as he entered the chamber that held the queen and her advisors. Eventually he was able to rise and address the English government in exile, "Your Majesty, I bring bad news. Plymouth has fallen to the French..."

It was not a surprise. They knew that the battle to retake London was costly and Plymouth was left with few troops. With France now entering the war, it was simply too much for the Plymouth garrison to handle. While expected, the news was far from welcome.

"Glasgow and Dublin remain," said the queen, "May God protect them."

"The highlanders will be tough to defeat. This may be the most difficult battle of the war for the Vikings," said William Cecil, the Baron of Burghley and English Secretary of State, reassuringly.

"Will they defeat the Vikings?" asked the Queen.

"We expect the Vikings to take considerable losses," added Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, Commander in Chief of the army.

"I didn't ask whether the Vikings would take losses or not, I asked if they would be defeated," said the Queen, clearly annoyed with the avoidance of the question.

The men around the table looked at each other for a moment, nervously. Eventually the Duke of Wellington spoke up, "We are hoping for a close battle, but no, we do not expect to hold Glasgow. Sooner or later Scotland will fall."

"So we are looking at a total loss of Britain? How are things at sea?"

"Things look excellent, ma'am, Admiral Nelson has the entire coast of Europe locked down. Not a fisherman or a trader or a galley as far as the eye can see in the North Sea, Mediterranean, or Atlantic. The blockade has begun takings its toll upon our enemies," said Lord Burghley.

"Then why can't we stop our enemies from landing troops on our homeland!" shouted the queen.

"My liege, the ocean is vast, and galleons are fast ships. We cannot intercept them at sea. Furthermore, since the damn frogs built their capitol right across the channel, they can slip back and forth between London and Paris in no time."

"And what of our allies?"

"The Turks have entered the war, they march on French Africa. The Royal navy will begin bombarding their defenses soon. We hope for victory against the French. The French maintain a large force there however, so it will not be an easy fight."

"May God bless their effort and may they fell many frogs. What of Russia?"

"Russia is arming rapidly to prepare, but finds themselves blocked by the Neandor. They cannot reach France or the Vikings without passing through an armed to the teeth Neandor..." answered the Duke of Wellington.

"The Neandor aid and abet our foes and escape all consequences? Tell the Admiral to expand the blockade to Neandor waters."

"Ma'am, you would have us declare war on the Neandor?"

"Does it matter at this point? Their gifts, posture and actions have shown themselves to be firmly against us. They orchestrate this entire war." the queen was clearly upset over the role the Neandor have played in this entire debacle, "They have not yet formally declared war on us, but do not mistake yourselves, the Neandor wage war against us, no less deadly than that of the French & Viking. Order the blockade."

"Yes, ma'am. Admiral Nelson will ensure they understand the consequences of supporting the invasion of Britain."

[Germany (DoE)]

To the Queen of England (I say respectfully)

Ma'm I believe you overstate the Neander role in this conflict. Yes, we have had our tensions with you for many eons but never have we threatened or plotted against you.

I will be making public the efforts you made to create an anti-Neander Pact.

Neander was never a direct threat to you and during that long buildup era the Vikings were clearly planning on joining your pact and heading their Riflemen our way. I gradually sniffed out what was going on and vigilant as ever the Neander armed herself, purely for defensive reasons; and even to this day we have not declared war on anyone (save for ancient tribal wars).

So, what nation would not work behind the scenes against you when your anti-Neander plot was uncovered?

We set about providing modest support, mostly diplomatic and advisory, to the Vikings and providing them with a defensive Neander Line in the East.

This war is England's folly - your lack of preparedness and an attempt at devious manipulation sees to your own downfall.

Now you come with Frigates and blockade our cities. I have to ask you to immediately drop this blockade. If you do not England will suffer even greater losses. You have a chance to recover at this point and enter into a diplomatic dialog to bring about peace. I have had an extensive meeting with Catherine of Russia who is very keen to resurrect peace in Europe. But as your loyal ally she feels compels, along with a Nationalistic spirit, to support you militarily.

The Neander are the only nation to have publicly suggested peace processes. Catherine has promised me, King Veneta of the Neander Line, that she will be publicly addressing a peace initiative. I await such initiative.

Veneta.

[Germany (DoE)]

This is the treacherous agreement that brought about England's demise:

Greetings honored Vikings!

Here is a copy of the clauses of our proposed alliance with the English and the Ottomans.

===========
Europe4 treaty
===========

1) this agreement sets the relations between the four nations - England, Vikings, Ottomans and Russia and is not tied to specific personality or ruler

2) this agreement is tied to the upholding of all other terms in this treaty.

3) We agree to a 50-turn agreement - from Txxx to Txxx inclusive

4) We agree to a mutual defensive against-Neandor-France pact. If either of us were to end up attacked by any of Neandor-France, the other E4 members agrees to declare war immediately (or with some delay if the attacked party explicit says so for strategic purposes) and immediately boost the war efforts against any of these aggressor/s both militarily and economically at full scale, including slaving of units if necessary

5) we agree that any nation will keep considerable armed force, ready to react and help the other fellow E4 members when/if need arises without any delay

6) We 4 nations agree that no previous alliances and allegiances hold if they interfere or may interfere with our allegiance to each other on this matter. Our agreement and friendship take precedence.

7) We 4 agree that no future alliances and allegiances will be signed if they interfere or may interfere with our allegiance to each other on this matter.

8) We 4 agree to trade spare resources to each other first, and only to others secondary.

9) Anyone wishing to leave E4 has to give 20 turns notice in advance, with no one being allowed to leave E4 before turn xxx.

10) Members are allowed to trade resources with non-E4 members however priority must be given to trading resources with fellow E4 members assuming equal value is given.

11) E4 members will not use privateers against other E4 members.

12) E4 members shall not engage in active espionage missions against other E4 members except specifically agreed.

13) Alliance members shall not declare war on another E4 member, no matter what.

14) Alliance members shall not close borders with fellow E4 member, no matter what.

15) In the unlikely event that an E4 member's city culturally flips to another E4 member then the city must be returned to the original owner unless other compensation is agreed to by both parties.

signed:

For England:

For Russia:

For Vikings:

For Ottomans:



Please, take the time to read and agree/propose/change any of the clauses you see fit.


Catherine of Rus.

[Germany (DoE)]

Follow up from Damn Anglais.

An Alternative Proposal to the Vikings

War is coming, this is obvious. It is true that you have a technological advantage over us, however war will be costly. To all involved. As you know, England is not without our friends. However you assess the various advantages each side may or may not possess in this war, nothing like this happens without risks. There will be risks. And there will be negative consequences from this for all involved. I propose a better option for you.

You and I both know that the Neandor are a threat. By siding with them now you have the snake by the neck, afraid to let go and afraid to hold on. Can you afford to let them grow more powerful? Can you afford to let them challenge your technological superiority? If they take land from Russia or the Ottomans and catch up to you in technology, what then? Then you have a very large problem on your hands. This war you've planned may dampen the power of some of your rivals but increase the power of others. My proposal is a better path for you.

You want to grow the power and wealth of your nation. You want to knock your rivals back a peg. You want to do all of this with minimal risk. I can offer you all this.

If you call off this war and sign a peace treaty with Russia, England and the Ottomans for 100 turns I will cede to you all my cities in Australia, sign open borders with you and allow you to spread your religion within my cities. You will have the entire continent of Australia virtually to yourself (the only other city there is a Neandor city).

Furthermore, I, Russia and the Ottomans will go to war with the Neandor & French. The two sides in this war are very evenly matched. The war will be costly to both sides. All five of us will be hurt by this war and our development will suffer. Meanwhile, the Vikings will be able to grow peacefully and develop an entire continent untroubled by the burden of war. You can sit back and trade with both sides in the war and further enrich yourself leaving the rest of us to our fate. You will not have to wager your own land, development and prosperity to the risk of war.

Please let me know your thoughts on this.

-Queen Elizabeth I

[England (DoE)]

The English Pope Faces a Dilemma

In the midst of all the war and tragedy to befall the English people, there was one small blessing. Before war was declared and England was invaded, the Russian pontiff in Calais died of old age and the Cardinals of Christendom met to elect a new Pope. They traveled from as far away as South America and Australia to attend this rare conclave. The Cardinal of Paris was expected to receive the position. Clergy from the world over met in the Vatican, and after several days of deliberation finally the conclave choose a surprise candidate. The selection of the English Cardinal, Nicholas Breakspeare as Pope shocked the world and angered the French. It was apparent at this time that war was brewing and suspicions were common that the French clergy were assisting their government in preparing for war. Many believed that French clergy were scouting out English and Ottoman troop positions in both Britain and in Africa and reporting back to the French military. The Christian world had never seen a war between two Christian nations. If France were truly planning war against England this would be a horrible disruption to the one true faith. This theme became whispered in all corners of the Vatican during the conclave and ultimately swayed the electors away from the Cardinal of Paris. The idea that war loomed large was shocking enough, but the idea that the clergy was assisting a worldly government to plan a war against a brother Christian nation was too much to bear. The situation presented a practical as well as moral crisis for the Church. Ultimately the English Arch-Bishop was seen as the best way for the Church to register its displeasure at the growing clouds of war. The election of Arch Bishop Breakspeare sent a clear message that such naked aggression was anathema to the Church and would not be accepted.

Actually accepting the position presented some practical challenges for Nicholas, who assumed the name Adrian IV. Would the French allow him to safely take up residence of the Apostolic Palace in Calais? Indeed this was more than just a religious matter, the Queen herself got involved to decide what course to take.

Elizabeth called a meeting of the top religious and civil minds in England. They met to discuss the election and the war to come.

They gathered in St. Paul's Cathedral, the beautiful church that was the centre of worship in London before the invasion and the deadly Viking fire that decimated the city. Light streamed in from the stained glass providing a small spark of light to an otherwise dim setting for such dark talk. The queen sat upon the throne, facing out into the gathered mass of bishops, monks, cardinals, priests and civil servants.

The queen spoke first: "I believe it is too dangerous to allow Pope Adrian to take his seat in France. The foul French and their Neandor masters cannot be trusted. Even now they prepare for war against us and against the Turks. How easy will it be to assassinate the Pope when he lies within their borders?"

"Your Majesty, the French would not dare to harm the Pope!"

"Oh?" the queen asked incredulously, "You believe there are limits to the depravity of the frogs?"

Not wanting to seem sympathetic to the French, the bishop struggled to come up with an answer, "Uh.. no, your majesty, surely if they were able to, they would kill the Pope and every last Englishman they could get their hands on, however I think the consequences of such action would be too great."

"How so? The French have shown themselves able to interfere with the French clergy at will, surely nothing would stop them from acting as they chose."

Another bishop spoke up, "The people the world over understand the tense political situation now. If war breaks out and the Pope passes, it will look to all as murder. The French would be unable to cover it up. The French King would find himself facing more than English and Ottoman armies, he'd find himself against French peasants as well. Adrian would be the most watched - and thus the safest Pope in history."

"Furthermore," said Secretary of State William Cecil, "Having an English Pope in France could present certain... advantages to us."

The queen was suddenly intrigued, "Please go on, Lord Burghley."

"The power of the Holy See is great and often under appreciated," he answered, "Pope Adrian could excommunicate the French or Neandor, or call a holy war against the heathen Viking. Controlling the mighty Catholic church would give us great intelligence against our foes as well. The world is sympathetic to our plight. They know who will be the aggressors in this war. The highest bully pulpit in the land can only help."

The queen considered their words for a long time. Finally she relented, "Very well, I will allow Adrian to travel to Calais. May he aid us in averting this war before it begins. May God protect him and may God protect England."

The bishops cheered, "God save the Queen!!"

[England (DoE)]

King Veneta,

The world can plainly see that the suggested pact was defensive in nature. Neither England, Russia nor the Ottomans had any aggressive intent. Indeed, after the aggressive language, posturing and military build up by France and Neandor can anyone blame us for being nervous about invasion? Obviously our fears were well placed since not long later England finds itself decimated in the face of a brutal attack. That we were aware of Neandor, French & Viking plans earlier and concerned for our safety shows prudence only, not malice. What other nation would seek a defensive alliance to protect their borders against aggressive and expansionary neighbors?

You call this an "anti-Nenader" pact, but surely even a Neanderthal must realize that had the Neandor or French not invaded us, this pact would have no effect. No one would see something sinister in protecting one's borders from conquest. You say you never threatened or plotted against us, had we not felt threatened we would have had no need for such a pact. Had we not been plotted against we would not today find foreign troops occupying our oldest and largest cities. Your pleas are hallow appeals of a conqueror and a puppet master.

The second letter you shared with the world was sent as Viking riflemen boarded ships bound for York. It is foolish to claim that it was this letter that provoked war or that some "anti-Neander plot" sent the Vikings into your arms. That letter was our last attempt to avoid the calamity and misery we now find ourselves in. This war is due to nothing but Viking, French & Neander greed, nothing more. England are victims of blood lust, nothing more.

That being said, yes we are indeed interested in discussions of peace. Peace is all we have ever wanted. As our second letter indicates, we have always been prepared to negotiate for peace. In fact we attempted to negotiate peace before war even begun.

-Queen Elizabeth I

[England (DoE)]

King Veneta understands the dismay of kingdoms and nations around the world at the actions of the Vikings.

However we must remember that God gave birth to the Nordics in a barren, resourceless small area of rock near the North Pole. They are financially smart and everyone could see that they were developing very advanced technologies.

God has blessed the Damn Anglais as they whisked around the world building an empire upon which the sun never sets, concentrating on naval technologies and colonization. They left their cities in their homeland rather poorly defended with bow and arrow against Riflemen.

Neandor would like to sympathize with the DA but find it difficult after our own treatment by them.

For eons the Neandor built up defences and limited expansion so as to defend our homeland. We could see the massive natural restriction placed around the Vikings and so common sense prevailed within the Neandor bureaucracy in assessing this stress: the Vikings could expand East or West. Eventually military might and improved diplomacy with the Vikings saw to it that Nordica would be spared any onslaught. It was either them (the DA) or us.

For the Damn Anglais to offer ALL of Australis to the Vikings in exchange for peace with the Vikings is absolutely incredulous and proves their utter disrespect of the Asian powers control of that region. Yes, this is true, ALL of Australis was offered to the Vikings.

Instead of condemning the Vikings perhaps look to the truth behind it.

If you want a world of peace, trade and good relations it requires a fundamental tenet of respect and diplomacy. The Neandor will continue to work hard in this regard whilst remaining vigilant with domestic security.

I call for peace talks based on the reality of geographic circumstances:
- namely that the Vikings capture and keep Northern Damn Anglaisland
- peace is proclaimed in all of Europe so that the war is not extended (all nations open borders and develop a European Free Trade Guild)
- perhaps some reparations are paid to the DA for european security and to assist their development of some of their overseas colonies
- that the issue of South East Australis colonies be the subject of a dialog, the terms of which to be dictated by India, Japan and China

To: King Veneta of the Neandor
CC: King Phillipe of France, Gozzo the Viking, Sultan Ahmed IV of the Ottoman Turks & Queen Catherine of Rus

In your most recent letter, King Veneta, you spoke of Neandor attempts to discuss peace. Incredulous, but intrigued none the less, English scholars looked through past diplomatic dispatches and did indeed turn up this letter. Somehow it was entirely missed by Secretary of State William Cecil and never forwarded to my attention. It seems in all the chaos of having our cherished city of London sacked and burned and evacuating the government to Iceland (and OOC preparing for and attending two conferences in one week!) we must have misplaced it. Our apologies.

England wishes to discuss an end to this horrible war. The framework you have outlined would be an acceptable starting point for us. I personally apologize for not receiving this letter sooner.

-Queen Elizabeth I

[Germany (DoE)]

It is good to hear from you Elizabeth.

So in the past, rather than seek a direct and constructive dialog with the Neander you work for eons on a defensive pact that is most aggressive in nature and intent. I will desist from saying any more in a negative way in an attempt to commence peace processes.

So let's take this a step at a time:

If you want peace with Neander you must immediately cease the blockades on Neander.

There are so many points for discussion to develop a meaningfull peace process, though I think we need an international and un biased arbitrator.

Do we have any suggestions? Can we receive a log of claims from all parties involved?

King Veneta.

King Veneta,

The world can plainly see that the suggested pact was defensive in nature. Neither England, Russia nor the Ottomans had any aggressive intent. Indeed, after the aggressive language, posturing and military build up by France and Neandor can anyone blame us for being nervous about invasion? Obviously our fears were well placed since not long later England finds itself decimated in the face of a brutal attack. That we were aware of Neandor, French & Viking plans earlier and concerned for our safety shows prudence only, not malice. What other nation would seek a defensive alliance to protect their borders against aggressive and expansionary neighbors?

You call this an "anti-Nenader" pact, but surely even a Neanderthal must realize that had the Neandor or French not invaded us, this pact would have no effect. No one would see something sinister in protecting one's borders from conquest. You say you never threatened or plotted against us, had we not felt threatened we would have had no need for such a pact. Had we not been plotted against we would not today find foreign troops occupying our oldest and largest cities. Your pleas are hallow appeals of a conqueror and a puppet master.

The second letter you shared with the world was sent as Viking riflemen boarded ships bound for York. It is foolish to claim that it was this letter that provoked war or that some "anti-Neander plot" sent the Vikings into your arms. That letter was our last attempt to avoid the calamity and misery we now find ourselves in. This war is due to nothing but Viking, French & Neander greed, nothing more. England are victims of blood lust, nothing more.

That being said, yes we are indeed interested in discussions of peace. Peace is all we have ever wanted. As our second letter indicates, we have always been prepared to negotiate for peace. In fact we attempted to negotiate peace before war even begun.

-Queen Elizabeth I

[Germany (DoE)]

Oh dear, I did wonder if that was lost in all the mayhem! Apology accepted Elizabeth!

Note to all nations that the public proposal by the Neander, quoted by the English below, was quite some time ago (as mentioned by Elizabeth it was BEFORE London was sacked AND BEFORE the French entered the war!)

Veneta.

THIS IS OUT OF DATE AND PRE-DATES THE LOSS OF LONDON AND THE FRENCH INVOLVEMENT!

Originally Posted by Germany (DoE)
King Veneta understands the dismay of kingdoms and nations around the world at the actions of the Vikings.

However we must remember that God gave birth to the Nordics in a barren, resourceless small area of rock near the North Pole. They are financially smart and everyone could see that they were developing very advanced technologies.

God has blessed the Damn Anglais as they whisked around the world building an empire upon which the sun never sets, concentrating on naval technologies and colonization. They left their cities in their homeland rather poorly defended with bow and arrow against Riflemen.

Neandor would like to sympathize with the DA but find it difficult after our own treatment by them.

For eons the Neandor built up defences and limited expansion so as to defend our homeland. We could see the massive natural restriction placed around the Vikings and so common sense prevailed within the Neandor bureaucracy in assessing this stress: the Vikings could expand East or West. Eventually military might and improved diplomacy with the Vikings saw to it that Nordica would be spared any onslaught. It was either them (the DA) or us.

For the Damn Anglais to offer ALL of Australis to the Vikings in exchange for peace with the Vikings is absolutely incredulous and proves their utter disrespect of the Asian powers control of that region. Yes, this is true, ALL of Australis was offered to the Vikings.

Instead of condemning the Vikings perhaps look to the truth behind it.

If you want a world of peace, trade and good relations it requires a fundamental tenet of respect and diplomacy. The Neandor will continue to work hard in this regard whilst remaining vigilant with domestic security.

I call for peace talks based on the reality of geographic circumstances:
- namely that the Vikings capture and keep Northern Damn Anglaisland
- peace is proclaimed in all of Europe so that the war is not extended (all nations open borders and develop a European Free Trade Guild)
- perhaps some reparations are paid to the DA for european security and to assist their development of some of their overseas colonies
- that the issue of South East Australis colonies be the subject of a dialog, the terms of which to be dictated by India, Japan and China

To: King Veneta of the Neandor
CC: King Phillipe of France, Gozzo the Viking, Sultan Ahmed IV of the Ottoman Turks & Queen Catherine of Rus

In your most recent letter, King Veneta, you spoke of Neandor attempts to discuss peace. Incredulous, but intrigued none the less, English scholars looked through past diplomatic dispatches and did indeed turn up this letter. Somehow it was entirely missed by Secretary of State William Cecil and never forwarded to my attention. It seems in all the chaos of having our cherished city of London sacked and burned and evacuating the government to Iceland (and OOC preparing for and attending two conferences in one week!) we must have misplaced it. Our apologies.

England wishes to discuss an end to this horrible war. The framework you have outlined would be an acceptable starting point for us. I personally apologize for not receiving this letter sooner.

-Queen Elizabeth I

[France (DoE)]

The manager opened yet another door for the King. The rays of sun showed the same as he had seen in the other large rooms of the granary, and as he had seen in other granaries around France. And that was nothing.

The blockade by the damnanglais had removed the main food source of the nation - the sea. Civilian fishing boats had been destroyed, and the ports lay idle. Grain stocks were non-existent. The French people were starving.

Phillipe looked around to his Minister of the Interior, Julian Lachance.

"What can be done, Julian? What can be done?"

"Sire, we have done all that is possible. We have maximized the use of all our land resources. But without our fishing industry, we go hungry."

Phillipe hesitated before asking his next question. "And the people, how are they coping? How are their spirits?"

"Well sire, that is the remarkable thing. The average citizen knows why we are at war, and they seem to be accepting these hardships for the greater good of France. I fully expected more unrest, but it is not happening. National pride has never been higher."

"That is truly remarkable. It humbles me to be their ruler."

[Germany (DoE)]

England wishes to discuss an end to this horrible war. The framework you have outlined would be an acceptable starting point for us. I personally apologize for not receiving this letter sooner.

-Queen Elizabeth I

Regrettably dear Elizabeth you have NOT lifted the blockade and now you have lost another city.

I do not wish to see you lose more cities but until the blockade is lifted a state of war, that you declared, will continue to exist.

King Veneta.

[Russia (DoE)]

The just and magnanimous Catherine of Rus to all the responsible and/or involved nations:





First - to start off, Russia do desires world peace. But the peace must not be payed with injustice, nor dictated by the barrels of a guns.

I call to all the involved nations - England, Vikings, France, Ottomans and Neandors and India.

Step in and state your claims.

But be well aware, that you must stop the HYPOCRISY and speak only real things and proposals.

Like stop claiming this aggressive war was just, because England had many oversea colonies. Why would you all dont made colonies for yourself? Or if you say there was no good space left, why would Vikings not took Australia when it was offered for a peace? Australia is half of England colonies. It is clear that Vikings were headed for juicy Europe cities and capitol. Maybe Australia were arbitraged to the Neandors and thats why Vikings cant take them?

Or missing the most important point - our Europe4 agreement was PURELY defensive. If all but 1 Europe nations think they need protection in case they are attacked by Neandor, this speaks a lot.

The facts are as follows:

Vikings attack is aggressive and unprovoked.
France attack is aggressive and unprovoked.
2 vs 1 is unfair fight thats why the Ottomans had to join

Our statement is that England should be better prepared and the Vikings efforts should be rewarded, BUT London must be returned to England. From this point we can further discuss the peace.

Think twice or triple and choose wisely.

Catherine of Rus

[Vikings (DoE)]

Maybe a defensive treaty, but as the evidence shows below how quick it could become aggressive alliance.

Furthermore, I, Russia and the Ottomans will go to war with the Neandor & French. The two sides in this war are very evenly matched. The war will be costly to both sides. All five of us will be hurt by this war and our development will suffer. Meanwhile, the Vikings will be able to grow peacefully and develop an entire continent untroubled by the burden of war. You can sit back and trade with both sides in the war and further enrich yourself leaving the rest of us to our fate. You will not have to wager your own land, development and prosperity to the risk of war.

Vikings were never able to establish colonies BECAUSE the English had closed their borders to us. We have tried for years to ask why, but they never answered. So as you see we were closed in by their actions. A letter of reason would have been nice, but no total silence. Thus this was the reason the Vikings spend years in preparing to seek retribution. So while the greedy DA expanded like viruses, the Vikings prepared to break this closed borders.

[Russia (DoE)]

Maybe a defensive treaty, but as the evidence shows below how quick it could become aggressive alliance.

Furthermore, I, Russia and the Ottomans will go to war with the Neandor & French. The two sides in this war are very evenly matched. The war will be costly to both sides. All five of us will be hurt by this war and our development will suffer. Meanwhile, the Vikings will be able to grow peacefully and develop an entire continent untroubled by the burden of war. You can sit back and trade with both sides in the war and further enrich yourself leaving the rest of us to our fate. You will not have to wager your own land, development and prosperity to the risk of war.

These lines I first saw and knew when the Neandors put them in publicity. Russia did not agreed to such course of action, neither was aware there will be such proposal. To my best guess these are words coming in desperate attempt to avoid the fate currently England are suffering.

This is evidence of nothing, but for English attempt to point your advanced and powerful army somewhere else than Britannia, and with conjuction with your early stated fear from the Neandors, this made Elizabeth to propose you something like that. Dont deny that you Gozzo was the one who reach out to us and searched protection from the Neandors just few decades ago.

If the English borders were closed to you and they absolutely denyed you exit from the freezing waters of the North by surrounding you, (although I doubt this is the case - I have to ask my georgaphers about this) and England did not answer your requests for free passage, then I recognize this would be a reason for hostility, but then again - you were offered half the English colonies and you took 2 cities on the British Island - for me thats a good way to teach someone how he wronged in the past to you and feel satisfied and rewarded. The capturing of London and the intention to keep it is beyond the just revenge.

France involvement in the war we will not comment - let give them the chance to try and acquit themself.

[Ottoman Empire (DoE)]

A notice from Ahmed, Sultan:

A word about the Viking Lies and Excuses
First, if the Vikings desired colonies, but found themselves unable to expand due to English closing borders, then the remedy was to violate the Borders and sail to found their colonies, not to invade England. The excuse that England closed borders is an obvious lie, because if you were willing to violate borders to delcare war, then you were willing to violate borders to found colonies.

A word About the disclosure of confidential communiques
Now, more importantly...

I have dealt frankly and honestly with all nations, and I have explained to the Anglais specifically, that they do not speak for the Turks and any attempts to present themselves as able to negotiate treaties, peace, war etc, on behalf of the Turks is void.

Even if these letters, now published by the Neandor, purportedly from Elizabeth to Gozzo are genuine (Catherine has intimated that they contain forgery) then this is still quite disturbing with respect to the Viking's already tainted reputation. Apparently the Vikings are too illterate to read their own mail, and must have the Neanders read it for them, or the barbarous Vikings, are prone to betraying the confidences of other leaders.

I think it will be a cold day in hell before any of the world community speak in confidence to the Vikings again... Let all leaders know, that I will never publicly disclose confidential diplomatic communiques, treaties etc., that anyone else presents to me in private. I may discuss the general gist of my conversations with other leaders but you may be assured that you will never find that I have published your words or proposals for the world to see.

There is NO anti-Neandor Pact
With regard to the supposed "anti-Neander pact." The Ottoman Turks are no part of such nonsense. The first act of my nation's Interim Government was to publicly and unambiguously renounce all prior agreements, treaties etc., made by the cowardly and corrupt prior rulers. This was a public declaration that all nations were aware of. The treaty that you published was never signed by me and does not represent Turkish policy. Therefore, as far a I can tell, the "Europe4 agreement" referenced by Queen Catherine was merely a proposal that was rejected by both the Ottomans and the Vikings.

I would simply point to the fact that the Turks did not declare War on the Vikings or the Neandor when the Vikings attacked England, despite Neandor's obvious cooperation in the attack. However, in examining the purported treaty you published, which I rejected as a concept, and therefore had never actually fully read, until now, I noticed that my declaration of War on France following their invasion of England could be interpreted as being connected to the treaty. Therefore, I apologize for giving you this impression and reiterate that my limited invasion of France is in response to the unbalancing situation created by the French, not any supposed "anti-Neander pact"

The argument Neandor continually raises, regarding the lack of land to expand in Europe is unpersuasive. This is because despite their perseverations over the land available, and the disparity in the number of cities, an empire's worth is not measured purely in the amount of land she holds, or the number of cities... It is measured in the quality and population of those cities and the social, scientific and cultural advancement of her people. This value is neatly represented in the Empire rating (score) published for all to see at the beginning of the year. So you see, it is quite preposterous for Neandor to complain about the relative strength of the Anglais or the Rus, when their own rating is comparable. It may have been an argument available to the Vikings, but certainly not to the Neander.

Neandor's confusion of the issue at hand

Finally, none of the issues Neandor has raised has any bearing on the blatant truth of the situation. The Vikings declared War on the Anglais and invaded England to increase their territory. While the Anglais and the Vikings were locking swords, the French also invaded England. This created a situation where two nations were fighting against one. The Ottomans entered against the French, evening the odds. What does a purported "anti-Neander pact" have to do with Neandor helping France against the Ottomans? The Turks have not attacked Neandor.

What you are attempting to do is conflate two seperate issues into one. The so-called "anti-Neander pact" has nothing to do with Vikings invading England... unless, the Neander enlisted the Vikings to invade England as punishment for the percieved "anti-Neander pact." More specifically, the only way that the Neandor can say that the invasion of England by the Vikings is related to the supposed "anti-Neander pact," is if the Neandor are willing to also state that the Vikings invaded England at their bequest and with their knowledge and support. If this is the case, then the Neandor have also plainly made war on England, and the English blockade against the Neandor is clearly justified. Also justified then would be Neandor hostility to the Turks, if they belived the Turks to be part of some plot against Neandor. But as I, the Sultan, have clarified that the Turks were part of no-such plot, there is no further justification for Neandor hostility against us, unless the Neandish King wishes to publicly declare me a liar.

On the other hand, if the Vikings acted ostensibly alone, in naked aggression to capture more territory, without Neandor influence and encouragement, then there is no connection whatsoever to any supposed "anti-Neander pact" and therefore, no justification for the Neandor closing borders with the Turks, which amounts to taking France's side against the Ottoman Turks. If Neandor wishes to take the position that it closed borders with Russia simply to keep the matter between Vikings and England, then Neandor can not possibly justify keeping borders open with France, while her borders remain closed to the Turks.

In this there can be no mistake of involvement. The Neander can not, as they say, "Have it both ways." Either you are neutral, or the English are correct and you are deeply involved, perhaps even behind this conflict. If you are neutral, then your stance must be equal to the parties involved. If your borders are closed to the Ottomans, they should also be closed to France, If they are open to France then they should also be open to the Ottomans. Otherwise, you are cooperating with France against the Ottomans, and you are thus making war against us.

The Ottomans entry into this war has nothing to do with Neandor or any "anti-Neander pact" and has very little to do with France. It has everything to do with the unfair and unblanced war against England.

Ahmed IV, Sultan of the Ottoman Turks

[England (DoE)]

Elizabeth Meets With Secretary of State William Cecil to Discuss Recent Diplomatic Dispatches

"My liege, letters have arrived to discuss the war. It seems the Neandor wish to discuss peace!"

"Wonderful! What do they say?"

"Well... they demand we lift the blockade as a pre-condition to discussing peace."

"A pre-condition?!? Of all the arrogant demands to make... our fleet and our blockade is the one tactical advantage we have in this war, and they expect us to abandon that just to talk about peace? Shall we request that the Vikings return our cities before we talk peace? Or remove all their troops from Britain? My goodness, the Vikings lay siege to Glasgow as we speak! And they want us to give up the one advantage we have first."

"Yes, ma'am, it very much seems like a ploy. Perhaps this whole talk of peace is just an attempt to buy time until they have frigates of their own."

"It would seem that way. No honest attempt at peace negotiations would begin with a "pre-condition". Tell them we wish to discuss peace as equals, not as master and slave. We accept no pre-conditions that put us at a strategic disadvantage."

"Very good, your majesty. The second letter comes from the Viking. They claim their reason for the war was our closed borders and claim we never responded to them after they requested closer relations."

"What? They burn and sack our cities because they felt slighted?! When was this?"

"It seems this was back during the reign of Henry III."

"Henry the third?!?! That was hundreds of years ago! Gozzo executes a massive war over a perceived insult from hundreds of years ago? Had he ever attempted to contact us during my reign? Heck, has he even tried to contact us during the last century?"

"No ma'am. But matters are worse, King Henry DID respond. I found the letter from the archive."

William Cecil hands the queen an old letter. Yellow and curled at the edges, Elizabeth does her best to read it. The language has evolved over the last 500 years, but she could still make it out.

An Open Letter to All Nations
September 6, 760 AD

Now that nations are reaching out beyond their borders and ships can travel between continents with ease, trade is a topic on everyone's minds. Our merchants are undoubtedly the most savvy in the world and our financial sector is, as it always has, leading the world in their sophistication. I seek to open our borders will all nations as a diplomatic gesture of support and friendship. Truly this is my goal, as England has no enemies. Least of all among the civilized peoples of Europe.

However, after the signing of the Magna Carta under King John, not all matters of international policy and especially trade policy are at my discretion. Our merchant class and local nobles fear a trade imbalance. Exports bring them wealth and build our nation. I understand their economic plight and must protect their interests. If we open trade with all nations then suddenly cheap grain is flooding our shores from the Neandor, cheap consumer goods are flooding in from China and cheap seafood from the Vikings. Our local farmers, craftsmen and Anglers will be put out of business. As important as diplomatic good will is for us, we must always put our own people first. Economies are fragile things, and we must protect ours to avoid a disastrous trade imbalance.

So do not take offense if England does not allow trade from your nation. It has nothing to do with our diplomatic stance toward you, nor is it a statement on your status as friend or enemy. I must always think of our poor peasants working the fields and the noble... umm, nobles, who have expensive tapestry bills to maintain. Your understanding is appreciated.

- King Henry III

"Very interesting Lord Burghley, so King Henry DID respond. The Vikings are liars. Bold faced liars. Their casus belli is a complete lie and fabrication. He even makes a point to say that this is purely economic policy and that no nation should take offense or interpret this as a diplomatic stance. What did the Vikings say in response?"

"It seems there was no response."

"Ha! And they accuse us of not responding to letters?"

"As any nation at the time can attest, the Viking at that point were very withdrawn from the world. They did not participate in world forums and were very hard to reach diplomatically."

"At least we know that King Henry did everything right. The Viking have no excuse for this war."

"Finally, your majesty, there are letters from Queen Catherine and Sultan Ahmed."

He hands her the letters.

"They have summed up the situation very clearly, especially the Sultan. The Neandor cannot have it both ways. Either the Neandor were behind this entire war and clearly aiding the Vikings and French, or they should remain entirely neutral and open their borders with Russia and the Ottomans. A more logical assessment of the situation can not be found. The Sultan is entirely correct. The Neandor appear very well able to talk out of both sides of their mouth and make contradictory claims always thinking it will help them. Just like they attempt to convince us to give up the blockade while their allies lay siege to our cities. They cannot have it both ways."

"Sultan Ahmed made a very good point about the Viking situation as well. If we were only concerned about trade policy and the Vikings were only concerned about access to the seas for colonial expansion perhaps they could have 'declared war' on us in order to escape our closed borders. That way our trade is not disrupted and they are not blocked from expansion. It seems like a very reasonable solution to both our problems. In fact, legend tells me that King Arthur did this exact same thing to pass through French waters thousands of years ago. Such a 'fake' war would be infinitely preferable to the current looting, killing and conquest in the real war we find ourselves in currently."

"Very true! Perhaps if the Vikings had actually responded to our letter we could have reached some kind of agreement like that. Since they returned only silence I suppose we shall never know..."

[Ottoman Empire (DoE)]

A point of Clarification from the Ottoman Public Relations Dept:

The Sultan has already denounced the implication that the Ottomans were part of any so-called "anti-Neandor pact." However, he has authorized me to further clarify the position of the Ottoman government...

Lest the international community be improperly led into the conclusion that our decision to intervene on behalf of the English was due to some overblown sense of altruism, we must clarify, that this is not the case. The Ottoman Turks are not, nor do we seek to be the police force of the world. We have our own, self-interested, practical, policy reasons for the intervention.

Prior to the War, the European Powers, as indicated by the yearly empire ratings, were Neandor, and England. The other Nations in Europe, Vikings, France and Ottomans, were lesser in ratings. Upon the transition of our government, the Ottoman Turks were able to establish friendly relations with both Powers, Neandor and England. However, as previously noted, we had no contact with the Vikings of French.

Accordingly, we were comfortable with Neandor and England as the dominant european powers, because we felt secure in our close relations with them. However, the current War will place countries in power whom we have virtually no relations with, placing us in peril. As the lowest rated European nation, we simply can not afford to let this happen.

To be plain, we have no problem with Vikings or France seeking to increase their lands, Power, or holdings. We have no problem with the rating of Vikings and France increasing. What we can not accept, is for BOTH to increase their rating at the expense of England, because this directly endangers the balance of power that was the source of security for us.

Aysecan, Public Relations Representative

[France (DoE)]

A notice from Ahmed, Sultan:

.......

The Ottomans entry into this war has nothing to do with Neandor or any "anti-Neander pact" and has very little to do with France.

.......

Ahmed IV, Sultan of the Ottoman Turks

"They really said this,Marc?"

The Minister of Foreign Affairs nodded. "Yes, Sire. Very publicly."

"Very little to do with France? While a Turkish army lays siege to Tangiers! This has very much to do with France!" The King slammed his fist on the table, spilling the ink well.

Marc Renaud knew that King Phillipe was very frustrated with the state of affairs in France. Starvation was rampant, and the economy hobbled by the damnanglais blockade. He asked quietly, "Do you want to make a statement, Sire? Do you want to respond?"

Phillipe waited some time before answering, letting his breath return to normal. His gaze was focused on the ink spreading across his desk.

"Respond? Yes, we will respond."

[Russia (DoE)]

Phillipe, you are young and impulsive, but I want to remind you, that we are here to discuss peace in mature manner. Do not take the words of the other out of the context. To anyone is clear that the phrase

The Ottomans entry into this war has nothing to do with Neandor or any "anti-Neander pact" and has very little to do with France. It has everything to do with the unfair and unblanced war against England.

means that it does not matter if it is France or other nation and it is about what you did, not who you are.

Please stick to the point.

[France (DoE)]

Please stick to the point.

Trust me, Dear Catherine, we will.

[Germany (DoE)]

Elizabeth Meets With Secretary of State William Cecil to Discuss Recent Diplomatic Dispatches

"My liege, letters have arrived to discuss the war. It seems the Neandor wish to discuss peace!"

"Wonderful! What do they say?"

Well... they demand we lift the blockade as a pre-condition to discussing peace."

"A pre-condition?!? Of all the arrogant demands to make... our fleet and our blockade is the one tactical advantage we have in this war, and they expect us to abandon that just to talk about peace? Shall we request that the Vikings return our cities before we talk peace? Or remove all their troops from Britain? My goodness, the Vikings lay siege to Glasgow as we speak! And they want us to give up the one advantage we have first."

Elizabeth, Queen of England.

The Neander have discovered the KISS principle! So I spell it out for you now.

Lift the blockade on the Neander and Neander will not attack any of the Damn Anglais cities. You get something immediately and so do we.

Point 2, if you do this it sets in place an environment for a peace process involving all parties you are at war with. Neander does NOT wish to see you any more harmed than the current situation.

The timing is now. If we both keep using our respective tactical advantages then there is no end to this war.

It is appreciated that you did not involve the Indians in your blockade actions of Mungo. I notice that you moved your Frigate so as to ensure Agra is free of the blockade. Your honourable actions are duly noted Elizabeth.

India is not involved in this war and I am sorry that our friendship with India causes anyone to see otherwise.

Veneta, King of The Neander Line