Hi all. I'm currently playing my first MP ever. As MA Ulm and I have somehow survived towards end game. But before questions little background. According to graphs I'm doing average and Marignon is currently leading and Jotunheim second. Marignon has already thrown a global enchantment(gale gate). I feel the late game is starting but have no idea what to do or what strategies I should use. I made a newbie mistake and took that forge lord as pretender with 1 earth and 1 fire

. What a stupid pick for Ulm.
1. What are my late game strategies? My mages suck my pretender sucks and I don't have many gems either. All I can think of is some kind of SC golems. But what to make them wear?
2. What can I expect from Marignon and Jotunheim? Marignon player is no newbie and should I watch out for seeking arrows or something more evil?
3. I have no border with Marignon but because my loyal ally Abysia is fighting a losing war (I think) with them I feel no option but to go to his help or else Marignon quickly out grows everyone else. Funny actually because if Abysia would be winning I would maybe backstab him

. My final question is this. Can good diplomatic skills help compensate my not so good tactical skills?
4. If you are playing at the same game you will now close this post and forget everything you read here. OK?
5. Thank you for your input. I guess I'll just have to play more aggressive because things are not going to be easier for me later and its a victory points game. I'm already trying to get everyone in an alliance against Jotunheim and Marignon, but its hard to concentrate when you have Atlantians as neighbour and no means of entering oceans. But I'm not happy giving more details on my game because my enemies have eyes everywhere. This game has become unhealthy obsession for me. Thank you Illwinter & Shrapnel Games.