Nations - MA, CBM 1.6, max lvl 6, NI, Assimilation - Olm/Man and Louist/Ulm win!

[Louist]

I'm afraid the subtleties of diplomacy are not one of Ulm's strengths. We do not know whether to consider ourselves still at war with Arcoscephale or not, as it is unclear whether their chariots are merely retaking their lands, or whether they plan to continue marching on our lands.

Without word one way or the other from Arco, we must continue what harassment we have left to us. If you wish us to stop, just say the word.

In other news, no less than 3 Bards of Man were caught red-handed trying to steal secrets from our capital of Ulm. They refused to yield, and the Black Guardians were forced to slay them.

[Valerius]

Originally Posted by Louist

I'm afraid the subtleties of diplomacy are not one of Ulm's strengths. We do not know whether to consider ourselves still at war with Arcoscephale or not, as it is unclear whether their chariots are merely retaking their lands, or whether they plan to continue marching on our lands.

Without word one way or the other from Arco, we must continue what harassment we have left to us. If you wish us to stop, just say the word.

I think Arco is just taking back his territories. He probably would have left troops in 24 if he were planning on continuing to attack you. If you need a way to withdraw your PoD without fighting Arco let me know and we can route him through my territory (though I just realized he has pills of water breathing so retreating through the water is another option).

This was a quiet turn but there may be some fireworks next turn: Arco's chariots and elephants vs. Pan's naked women and carousing revelers. Be sure to get your scouts to 46 and 33 so you don't miss the fun!

Originally Posted by Louist

In other news, no less than 3 Bards of Man were caught red-handed trying to steal secrets from our capital of Ulm. They refused to yield, and the Black Guardians were forced to slay them.

Pan will have to keep an eye out for those troublemakers as well. In Man and Pan's previous short war some of those rabble rousers caused discontent among the populace. They were never found and are likely still hiding in our territory. However, harpies are patrolling in force and the troublemakers will surely be discovered and dealt with appropriately.

In the northeast, Man's troops have again massed in 66. However, the defense of the fort in 62 is strong and it seems unlikely that the walls will be breached before reinforcements arrive.

[Louist]

In a show of good faith, the Prince of Death is removing himself from Arco's territory, and ordering all harassment to stop. Ulm shall stand down to repair its damaged pride and reputation.

[Olm]

We think it absolutely scandalous how Ulm boasts about the slaughter of three innocent artists. Man rejects any proposed connections of Our nation to these poor individuals other than them being Man citizens. Thus We protest sharply against this unjustly and barbarian act of violence against Our peaceful, art loving brethren.

[Olm]

Our offer seems not to even be worth an answer to Arcescophale. We take this behaviour as a grave insult and stop all diplomatic connections to Arcoscephale. If Arcoscephales only means of communication is crying and weeping, its not Our task to deny them reasons to do so. Nonetheless in the best interest of Our nation we cannot simply watch Pangaea swallow Arcoscephale. We need to at least take some advantage from this, so as from now on the nations of Man and Pangaea are at war.

[Louist]

Originally Posted by Olm

We think it absolutely scandalous how Ulm boasts about the slaughter of three innocent artists. Man rejects any proposed connections of Our nation to these poor individuals other than them being Man citizens. Thus We protest sharply against this unjustly and barbarian act of violence against Our peaceful, art loving brethren.

Man need not feel worried, the "artists" didn't give up their employer before they drew steel on the Black Guardians of Peace and Order.

[Valerius]

Originally Posted by Olm

Nonetheless in the best interest of Our nation we cannot simply watch Pangaea swallow Arcoscephale. We need to at least take some advantage from this, so as from now on the nations of Man and Pangaea are at war.

No worries; we have enough naked ladies for everyone!

The anticipated Pan/Arco battle didn't materialize, however Man kicked things off very nicely, using armies, stealth forces and a fully equipped thug. So, first round to Man - but there's still plenty of fighting left.

[Olm]

Originally Posted by Valerius

No worries; we have enough naked ladies for everyone!

Sending naked ladies against longbowmen. What a cruel world is this?

[Olm]

Bitter defeat against the monstrous gorgon!

But I have one question concerning game mechanics:Is it correct that even stone beings like the crusher are petrified by the gorgon?

[Valerius]

Originally Posted by Olm

Bitter defeat against the monstrous gorgon!

Well, as you pointed out, the naked ladies do need some help.

Originally Posted by Olm

But I have one question concerning game mechanics:Is it correct that even stone beings like the crusher are petrified by the gorgon?

Yes, monsters with the stone being attribute will still be petrified by the gorgon (and the Aegis, a unique magic item not present in this game). However, they will not be petrified by the Stone Sword (another unique item).

So when fighting the gorgon you want either ranged attacks or high MR units for melee battle.