[Valerius]

Thanks guys! It does occur to me that maybe I'm unclear on the concept of this game ... you know, actually conquer other nations.

This was my first MP game where I got to choose a nation so I went with Vanheim because I had spent most of my SP time playing bless nations. I never planned to rush anyone because it doesn't seem like a fun experience to be on the receiving end of a dual bless Van rush. All my neighbors were willing to sign NAPs and I started in a good position with lots of indie provinces available. So, I decided to play Vanheim as a turtle nation. Which actually worked out quite well. But I made a lot of mistakes: good relations with everyone but no allies, didn't apply research advantages to gain more provinces, and in general just not aggressive enough.

Sorry I haven't put up a better fight here in the end game. I definitely joined too many games and in addition to a shortage of time at the moment I just feel overwhelmed with managing the end game.

I'm glad we've got an extra 24 hours for this turn. I may do a poor job of it but this turn I'm sending out my tartarians.