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Another property for Puerto Desafio: a post mill to grind grain into flour. This will be licensed as a small factory. When we first starting discussing the microbuild prizes from Challenge V, Captain Braunsfeld asked "you mean, like, no more than 8 pieces?" or something like that. So for this microbuild I decided to see if I could in fact make it with only 8 pieces. Alas, with the technic pin that holds on the sails, it uses 9 pieces. So close! All C&C welcome!

BOBS Brief Stories : The Brickwall to the rescue ! Since the Malto situation became an epinous problem for the Eslandolan diplomacy, it appeared to Felipe de la Manzana he should do something to help his new friends in Mehit and to support his country effort for peace. He decided to disarmed his brand new Frigate, The Parango of Sacrifice, he renamed the Brickwall after Murion Brickwall sacrifice at the battle of the Bridge of Arbol. He just left the two bow chasers with a soldier on board in defense purpose, but all the eighteen 12 pounders normally on board have been disembarked to leave the place to a full load of food and tools for the Maltians. The fast vessel took full wind and set sail quickly to the shallow waters of the Malto area. Due to the sand banks and poor port condition, Malto doesn't have the capacity of hosting such a vessel, so Felipe droped anchor at a resonable distance and hired his new Mehuãtajir friends services to unload the cargo for Malto. It is with such a total humanitarian with a neutral delivery that the peace can be preserved now as it seems the Corrington troops would never stop food and tools delivery without any armed escort ! Felipe de la Manzan is sure his friends from Corrington will finally keep reason and will allow Eslandola administrate this area as it is by law (after a war treaty, that cannot be contested !) the Eslandolan Sovereign Territory. Thank you for reading. Of course, all the description and story are IC thoughts and reactions ! Felipe de la Manzana is an Eslandolan Citizen and wants the best for his country. He doesn't want to be more involved, so, he just sent humanitarian help without unboarding from his Frigate. OOC : I don't really understand everything around all the Malto affair, and I am leaving the Gamemasters solve this. This was the opportunity to show you some builds I was working on for a veeeeery long time now, and to show you the main MOCs I will expose to the Fanabriques Event in France this Week End. Of course, every comments or criticisms are welcome !

[The Secret of the 8 Provinces - Prelude] [The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 1st Chapter] The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 2nd Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 3rd Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 4th Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 5th Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 6th Chapter Captain Cookie continued: Paul de Ruyter glanced through his spyglass. "Curses" he muttered to himself. A really mean gang of cutthroats was chasing the "8 Provinces". If there was an "evil pirate contest" these guys would surely have won. "Evil pirates and the weather is turning bad", Captain de Ruyter said to himself. "Can this day get worse?" It could. (to be continued)

On a fine sunny day, on a fine sandy beach, on a fine sugary island, Captain Argentum set his foot down proudly. This was his first visit to Crablandia, and he had come bearing the olive branch of peace! Crablandia was one of the smallest settlements in the Brick Seas (literally: everything was crab-sized!) and was very rarely visited by the upper classes. The negligence and arrogance of humans early on resulted in enmity and some degree of silent unrest from the main populace, commonly known as Crustaceans. During recent exploration by Corrington, Crablandia had especially suffered from careless explorers living up to the island’s maxim “Keep Yer Boots On” and literally trampling the settlement underfoot. Additionally, as the Corries evacuated, many of the crab's tunnels were raided to provide food for the Corries. Many Crustaceans lost their lives on this account. This policy served to sow further discontent among the populace, most of whom were both unable and unwilling to flee to other Crustacean colonies. While the smallest and most humble of cities, the strategic location of Crablandia is likely to end up making it the main harbor of Keep-Yer-Boots-On island (island 14, in case you were wondering). Fearing additional deprivations by their new Corry overlords, and the native turtles and birds, former Crablandian citizens have gathered in the ruins of Crablandia on the north of the island. Although their homes are smashed, they have nowhere else to go. Fortunately, Captain Crusty Kakricini, seeing the plight of his fellow-crustaceans, made prodigious efforts to safeguard his people. Fearful of the Corries’ gastronomic powers, he has turned to the Empire of Eslandola for help. Much concerned about the civil rights and safety of the Crustaceans, Captain Argentum, on behalf of the councils of Eslandola (who, he is sure, will be thrilled to second his helpful actions, as they always are, as soon as he can report them), has set in motion Operation Pax Crablandia. This operation aims to establish an independent neutral zone on Keep-Yer-Boots-On Island (a name which, by the way, Captain Argentum finds much too long – he suggests Crab It! or something catchy like that) in which those in danger of being served up or dished out can seek safety from culinary coercion – from being boiled, roasted, grilled, and so on. Unpleasant stuff! Hearing their tales of harrowing woe made Captain Argentum extremely glad that he was not born a crab. As the settlement is established on the ruins of Crablandia, it will be known as Nova Crablandia. To secure the status of the settlement, significant forces have been committed, both naval and army, most notably two sailors. But let’s not forget the one soldier and his grapeshot cannon – and of course, the renown Captain Argentum himself. His ship, too, is standing in the offing, and he’s confident that a quick passenger pigeon to Eslandola will bring regiments and regiments of reinforcements without delay. Before beginning to reconstruct, Captain Argentum unrolled a small paper and read the following declaration (with frequent interjections of opinion): “People of Crablandia, I, Captain Argentum of Eslandola, hereby declare on behalf of the crown and our worthy King Fernando – whom, may providence restore! – the settlement of Nova Crablandia and the surrounding territories neutral ground, and extend the full protection of Eslandola’s armed forces, navy and army, to its continuing existence. However, putting aside narrow gains, Nova Crablandia shall remain independent of the Crown and under its own governance, by the office of a locally elected governor, answering only to the citizens. – Of course, the governor will be played by an Eslandian; that’s understood. – The governor will be required to act within the stipulations set down in this statement and its accompanying treaties to secure continued neutrality and perpetual attendance to the civil rights of the populace. – Basically, we get to decide what the governor can do. Of course. Otherwise he might be a tyrant. – Nova Crablandia will remain open for any refugee or settler of any nation, unless explicitly deemed a threat to the neutrality and safety of the settlement. Gastronomical capacity and taste for seafood will be evaluated when considering immigrant application forms. Accepted refugees will be offered the same security and convenience as existing citizens. Until elections can be held, Captain Crusty Kakricini will hold the office of governor, his most important tasks being to organize the relief efforts in cooperation with Eslandian forces, and afterwards to hold proper and fair elections to either affirm his mandate or find a successor. Eslandola will be watching developments carefully to ensure all obligations are fulfilled to its satisfaction. – Our way or no way, you know! An excellent motto. Got King Fernando into a bit of trouble though. Shall I tell you a secret? He helped me draft this! Indeed! The King himself helped draft this letter. Ahem… where was I? – To ascertain continued neutrality, Nova Crablandia shall refrain from raising any military forces, including, but not limited to, militia, irregular forces, or naval assets. A reasonable constabulary force is excepted from these rules. – Very sorry fellows, but neutrality has to be governed by someone. – Security will be ensured by the continued presence of a permanent Eslandola garrison, currently commanded by Captain Argentum, as well as the additional naval and army assets necessary at any point in time. – One man’s neutrality is another man’s tyranny! Another excellent saying of my good King Fernando. I have often encouraged him to write a book of his sayings, you know. I think he could title it something like… The King, or… The Prince… hmm... but to return! – As a neutral protectorate of Eslandola, the port of Nova Corlandia will be perpetually open to vessels of all nations. – I understand that you are concerned that sailor appetites may put your lives at risk. Fear not! We will be alert at all times to prevent banquets! In fact, the very next section says: – Visiting warships will be moored under the guns of Nova Corlandia to safeguard against any hostility, and shore leave will be strictly regulated to ensure a minimum of trouble. The Governor, the commandant, and the Councils of Eslandola each reserve the right to, at any given time and without explanation, deny any vessel or person access to the port, or any communications with shore, should it be deemed necessary to uphold the neutrality and safety of the territory and its citizens. They may take any measures consistent with its charter to ensure its continued existence. – Basically, Captain Crusty, myself, and the councils can do anything at any time for any reason. I defy anyone to miss seeing the genius of King Fernando in those lines! Note especially, that right after granting permanent access, he reserves the right to deny anyone anything! I appeal to any unbiased observer: have we not here the ruling genius of the century?! – Eslandola grants its best wishes for the safety and well-being of the citizens of Nova Crablandia and trusts that you will hold the ideal and principles on which it has been established in the highest regard, serving as an example for others to follow. – A confession must be made here, I admit. I suspect that King Fernando was actually following examples himself, when he thought of this mission. Ah, well. No man is an island! And imitation is the highest type of flattery, right? – To relieve you of your immediate troubles, we shall construct a blockhouse fort, where all Crustaceans can hide in case of need, and where the flag of Crablandia can be proudly waved for all to see. Long live Nova Crablandia! Long live Eslandola! – And long live my good friend King Fernando, and may he one day enjoy his own again!" However, words are not sufficient to alleviate the hardships created by hungry exploration parties. No sooner had he finished reading the declaration, than Captain Argentum put his sailors to work. As they hoisted the colors of the Crustaceans (which just happened to be the colors of ketchup and mustard) to the top of the new fort, Captain Argentum went into raptures. “Comrades, you have just witnessed the dawning of a new day! A new day for all Crustaceans; a new day for Crablandia; yes, even a new day for Eslandola! By this selfless, disinterested establishment of an utterly neutral city, we have begun on a new path – a path of harmony, a path of greatness, a path of good relations with all!” He stopped, breathless, awaiting the reactions of his assistants. The two sailors cheered lustily. The soldier only said, “I can’t wait until the Corries hear about this. I wonder if they'll think it's good relations for all?” His wish seemed to be about to be granted. Colonel Lawson, who was busy exploring and mapping island 14 for her Majesty, came along the beach at a canter. Hearing the applause, he spurred forward; eager to be in on what he imagined was a crab hunt, and also wondering who it was that had set foot on these shores. “Hullo!” he called out. Captain Argentum wheeled around. The soldier snapped to attention and examined the priming on the grapeshot cannon. “Halt!” Captain Argentum bellowed. Colonel Lawson, who had recognized the Eslandian uniform, stopped in amazement at this peremptory command from what he had imagined to be a friendly power. Captain Argentum rummaged around and dug out a bit of white handkerchief. He ventured boldly forth from amid the sands of Nova Crablandia to meet the Colonel, signing to his sailors and the soldier to be ready. The sailors cocked their shovels. The soldier lit a slow match. “If you take another step forward,” Captain Argentum said in slow measured tones, “I shall be required by duty to open fire. I am under orders from his Majesty King Fernando to protect the neutrality of this settlement with any means necessary, and I am already stretching my authority by meeting you thus. However, I would be very sorry to be the cause of any breach between Eslandola and Corrington.” He sighed and sent a distraught glance toward the Colonel. “I appeal to your own sense of duty. I cannot ignore my orders. I shall have my orderly,” here Captain Argentum paused to indicate with a wave of his hand the crab crawling next to him, “appoint you a suitable camp site outside the range of my guns, near water, and ensure that you are well provisioned, should you not have brought the means to be self-sustaining. There, you will await negotiations under the flag of truce. “I appeal to your sense of right and wrong. Please do not force me to act in what is certain to lead to a diplomatic incidence with ramifications we cannot even begin to imagine…” Captain Argentum again gave the Colonel a worried, expectant glance, as his sailors adjusted the aim of their shovels, looking competent but distraught of the thought of firing at their fellow men (having, of course, long since forgotten that they were only holding shovels). “Will you accept my suggestion?” Colonel Lawson looked stupidly at Captain Argentum, in pure astonishment. He had hardly heard a word. At last he stuttered out, “Fire? Did I hear you say you would fire?” Captain Argentum straightened boldly. “Yes sir! I said – fire!” At this word there was the sudden sound of an explosion. The truth was, the soldier had got to daydreaming a little bit during Captain Argentum’s wordy speech, and had just remembered where he was when he heard the Captain bellow the word, “Fire!” So, of course, he fired. Colonel Lawson fell from his horse, buried in a load of ripe and bursting grapes. Grape juice was running down his chin and staining his uniform. He still looked astonished, and a little angry too, but Captain Argentum stepped up quickly. “Sir! I am inexpressibly sorry for this premature conclusion! Please accept my apologies,” the Captain went on, helping Colonel Lawson to his feet. “My soldiers are so precipitate at times! I’m sure you can understand the feeling. I will be glad to provide you with a new suit at any time…” Colonel Lawson cut him short. “Sir, I really – what exactly is going on here? I understand nothing of this matter, though I will certainly accept your offer of a new suit. This one has been quite ruined,” he grumbled. “Certainly, sir, I will be glad to explain again. You see, sir, it boils down to this: simply put, someone needs to do something. – We have seen no efforts by Corrington to help rehabilitate the survivors of this crab population, decimated by your recent exploration parties. – So Eslandola has decided to do that something. When Corrington failed to send help to the roasted, the grilled, and the boiled, Eslandola has sent ships.” “This is insane!” Colonel Lawson muttered to himself. “Do you mean to say,” he added, in a louder tone, “that you are establishing an Eslandian military presence on this island?” Captain Argentum opened his eyes wide. “Why, surely sir, you must perceive that the establishment of a demilitarized, neutral port like this in no way endangers fulfilling your official strategic objectives. I would be quite surprised if any of my efforts here were regarded as hostile action, rather than as a parallel and complementary effort of an ally! “In truth, it saddens me inexpressibly,” Captain Argentum continued, “to think that the Corries have ignored their crab population for so long. But rest assured, this matter is being taken care of! And surely, sir, you cannot expect me to leave Nova Crablandia until I have received reasonable assurance that my kind intentions will be fulfilled. “The Crustacians of Crablandia are my primary concern. Are they yours?” After a nice dramatic pause, Captain Argentum found it necessary to keep going, since Colonel Lawson still looked a little lost. “You see, sir, that this is not a matter that can be hastily resolved. I advise returning to your… to wherever it is you came from, and perhaps communicating with your superior officers. As I’m sure you can recognize, the status of Nova Crablandia is to be decided through proper diplomatic channels, not by the logic of force, and no Eslandian or Corry citizen is to act in contrary to such.” Captain Argentum bowed politely to the Colonel, who mechanically bowed back, mounted his horse, and left at a gallop. After Colonel Lawson was out of sight, Captain Argentum sat down and sharpened his quill. Then, pressing his lips together in a sign of deep concentration (he never found writing an easy task), he wrote an official report of his actions, meaning to send it by a trusty messenger to the Eslandian Councils as soon as he could. He then sent a private letter to King Fernando. Your Majesty, This is to inform you that I have successfully established the settlement of Nova Crablandia on Corrington's newest island, as you ordered. If there is any other faction you would like me to make enemies out of, I remain, Your eager servant, Captain Edward Argentum Having thus achieved a good day’s work, Captain Argentum returned to his ship and feasted on a delicious dish of Crab Rangoon. Disclaimer: No actual redcoats were actually harmed in the making of this MOC! I can’t begin to tell you how much fun this was to write. Had a blast trying to collect all the letters and what not that have been going around about Pax Corlandia and then rephrasing them. I hope it’s as fun to read, even for the Corries. Obviously I was trying to parallel the situations as much as possible.I tried to stick with the description of Island 14 too, with the spiky plants! Needless to say, this isn’t serious. Eslandola provides no official backing or protection for Nova Crablandia. However, if you want to build a crab-sized house… please do! As a motion of gratitude to the Corries for graciously affording me such an opportunity, they're welcome to license the sand fort as a small fort if they feel so inclined (I think it should count per the rules, because, although the fort is small, the MOC is a good size). Constructive Criticism is always appreciated! Thank you for looking!

During the war the Crahaish neh Triuri supported the Eslandola government in its stand against Madierian imperialism. But now the war is over. Care for the benighted population of the island known on Eslandolan maps as Isla de Victoria is needed. The Crahaish and the Truachesh people have responded to that need. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was well known that a large group of Truachesh builders, sculptors, and craftsmen were planning a move to Trador. The Crahaish neh Triuri offered to completely finance their resettlement if they would first join the war relief effort in Malto. This offer was readily agreed to. Three ships were promptly hired to transport the whole of the group, their trade tools, and other provisions to the northeastern coast of Isla de Victoria. To keep from being molested on their journey, the ships would fly the flag of the Crahaish. ----------------------------------------------------------- Meanwhile in Nova Terreli, the newly minted in-shore commodore Hammish Grie was busy arranging a supply of food and medical aid to be loaded on the Island Rose and the Consort's Duty. High Priestess Ylsbeth the Starcatcher and her Consort, Taliesin the Lightbringer, were to make the voyage, along with a number of Wandering Acolytes, to offer aid and comfort to the remaining population of Isla de Victoria. --------------------------------------------------------------------- So it happened that five ships came from the Crahaish neh Triuri, mooring in the deeper waters south of Mehit. The group were well received there, and were given assistance in transporting goods and personnel to an area near Malto for encampment. Once a camp was established, Ylsbeth, Taliesin, and a master carpenter, Jonas McInsh, approached the city to view the devastation. They encountered several guards that were there to try and keep out uniformed troops. They were a little confused about what to do about the High Priestess' group, but allowed them to pass. The first group of houses at the edge of the city had only minor scorching, and damage to some nicely appointed lawns. Coming around a corner, though, the true extent of the damage became quite clear. Jonas, swearing loudly in the old tongue, became quite daunted at the task set before himself and his fellows. ------------------------------------------------------------------- I hope my little build will help lessen the tension.

An Eslandolan privateer sails a bit too close to the volatile Gunpowder Island... Just a small vig using this ship which I had sitting around on my desk for a few days. I had been fiddling around and trying to make the smallest microship possible when Kai mentioned that she'd seen someone do something of the kind with a pair of epaulets, and, voilà, here you go! Credit for inspiration goes to whoever it was that thought of that first, haha! Probably not the smallest one possible, but anyhow... Oh, and in case you were all wondering - no, this is not a buildup for the next challenge or some major story event, at least not that I know of! One more shot: Thanks for viewing, C&C are welcome!

After the war, Eslandola had taken full control over "Isla de Victoria", which now had started to deserve its name. Román Fontonajo had ordered his men to take one of the now deserted old warehouses, renovate it, and start the one thing that actually is Eslandola: Trading! Small Commerce, activated as challenge-reward via microbuild.

[The Secret of the 8 Provinces - Prelude] [The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 1st Chapter] The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 2nd Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 3rd Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 4th Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 5th Chapter Captain Cookie continued: The "8 Provinces" was an Eslandolean ship some 50 years ago - aptly named after the 8 Provinces of Eslandola. One fine autumn day she was sailing home to Eslandola - and everyone was in a good mood. The captain, Paul de Ruyter, was famous and experienced. His crew was fine and well trained. And he had a fine first mate he could trust - Mr. Errol. And trust was needed for the "8 Provinces" was carrying a precious load: The ship was filled with silver. There were silver ingots on every deck and the King was anxiously waiting for this valuable transport to come home to port. The weight of the silver made the "8 Provinces" slower than usual. So the captain knew that trouble was ahead when the look-out cried: "Pirate sail on the horizon!" [to be continued] I had some trouble myself with the shooting of the ship as it toppled at the beginning of the photo session and was damaged in many ways. It took some time to repair the model - and, as often in these cases, I could not detect all defects. So some things are still wrong on the pictures, which is why I could not use too many of them here. Well, you will see some more in the next chapter. [edit] Or just now:

Previous part: another belated party Wether the Royal Engineers were inside or outside Malto, those rumours can not be confirmed nor denied. Time will tell... Anyway, the Royal Engineers helped where they were really needed. The officers turned an old estate just outside Malto to their new headquarters to co-ordinate the aid. The name "Palacio De Desarollo Regional" literally means "Palace of Regional Development". A quick build, C&C is welcome :)

Previous part: "A Belated party" Jan Zwartbaard returned to Trador with Prince Azte Hek, crownprince of the Azclaxcan tribes. His hate towards Mardierians was still alive and kicking. Especially after their visit to Mehit on their way home. Although Lakor was the Azclaxcan capital, Mehit was the most important village of the Azclaxcan kingdom. The coastal village is a melting pot between the landbased Azclaxcans and the seafaring Mehuãtajir. But just like Lakor, Mehit was burned to the ground by Mardier troops. Jan Zwartbaard found some survivors in Mehit as well and promised to send help. It was only back in Trador when Jan Zwartbaard heard about the recent events in Malto. Discussing the faith of the Azclaxcans with Lord Maximilian Damaximus, the latter decided the moment came to put the MAESTRO Regiment in Trador in play. The King of Garvey, residing in his property in Trador after the coronation of Lord Maximilian Damaximus as Prince of Garvey, wanted to make up for the heavy bombardements on Malto by his vessels, so he prepared the Royal Garvey Engineers to aid the people of Malto. So only a few hours after the arrival of Jan Zwartbaard, the Colour of the Wind, Purple Reign II, Purple Rain and 2 other Xebecs belonging to Garvey sent sail to Malto to help its citizens. Filled with food, resources and supplies and strong veterans who were eager to help the people of Malto. After dropping 1 Batallion of Elite MAESTRO soldiers at Mehit, for its rebuilding, the 2 vessels continued their trip and arrived the next day. 1 Batallion of Elite MAESTRO soldiers, 1 company of Royal MAESTRO Engineers and 1 company of Royal Garvey Engineers landed close to Malto as Corrington vessels did not let the Eslandolan vessels come closer to Malto. It was a pleasure to see however how much trouble the Corrington vessels had with manouvering in the shallow waters around Malto. Luckily the Eslandolans choosed to sail in Xebecs... The denial of passage should have been the first sign of the arrogancy of Corrington, but Lord Maximilian Damaximus still trusted his red friends and thought it would just be a standard procedure... It was when the rescuers marched towards Malto that they were stopped by a Corrington Commander... "Hold on" the Corrington officer yelled. "If you take another step forward, I shall be required by duty to open fire. I am under orders to protect the neutrality of this settlement with any means necessary, and I am already stretching my authority by meeting you thus. However, my orders insist upon the necessity of maintaining good relations with Eslandola and I understand that negotiations for the status of Nova Malto are underway." Sighing and sending a distraught glance at his Eslandian and Garvey counterpart, he continues: "I will ask you the same I asked your MAESTRO captain yesterday and I appeal to your own sense of duty, in that you may understand that I cannot ignore my orders. I shall have my orderly appoint you a suitable camp site outside the range of my guns, near water, and ensure that you are well provisioned, should you not have brought the means to be self-sustaining. There, you will await negotiations under the flag of truce. I appeal to your sense of right and wrong. Please do not force me to act in what is certain to lead to a diplomatic incidence with ramifications we cannot even begin to imagine... " Lord Maximilian Damaximus was stumbled for a moment. How dares Corrington denying access to an Eslandolan village? "Dear officer from Corrington, as you said yourself, an Eslandolan Regiment is stationed closeby. I have to admit this is new information for me, but a small calculation counts a total of 450 Eslandolan soldiers close to Malto, with a full Batallion closeby at Mehit and a Royal Fortress at Puerto Desafio. That is a little bit more than your 1 Battalion currently residing in Malto, isn't it? But I have always respected Corrington and my relations I have with your wonderfull nation, so I am not going to let things escalate. However, I do have a simple question: Why are the people of Malto seeking protection to an ally of Mardier? It is Corrington who aided Mardier defending the island and who helped Mardier funding their coffers. So why are you claiming the title of "liberator of Malto" when all you did was defending and funding the ones who burned down their own city? Next to me you may see Prince Azte Hek, crownprince of the Azclaxcans, one of the native tribes living on this island. Their capital is just a few miles further and they are massacred by Mardierian troops. They have a bigger right to hate you, Corringtonlander, than you have the right to defend the victims of the Mardierian genocide. Now I have a second question as well, a bit less simple... If you are here to help the people of Malto, and you are here without any self interest, why don't you accept the help we are providing? I got 2 companies of Engineers with me to help the people of Malto. If I look around, there still are a lot of people without a decent roof, without the minimum requirements to live peacefully. One should wonder if Corrington really is helping the people of Malto for the sake of humanity, or because Corrington hopes to expand their Empire. By not letting us in, helping the people who need it the most, Corrington shows its true face to the world..." On the left, the ROYAL MAESTRO Engineers under General Whitedragon... On the right, King Leopaldis IV of Garvey with his Royal Garvey Engineers... Lord Maximilian Damaximus spoke once again "I understand you can not give an aswer to my questions yourself, but think about my words... Thanks to your denial of access, this MAESTRO batallion will have to take a longer tour to arrive at Lakor, and since we are needed there, they should better hurry... The Royal Engineers still want to help rebuilding Malto and the hinterland" And so the troops splitted ways. The last word wasn't said about this... The Royal MAESTRO Engineers (1 company owned by MAESTRO) Thanks a lot for viewing and reading! @Bregir: those 2 questions are for you, I hope you can answer them... Oh and don't play the "Corrington is a democracy blablabla", when you have put us for an ultimatum, your own words were "hoping for a fast answer"... Anyway, I am looking forward to your anwer this evening

The war between Mardier and Eslandola had devastated the Mardierian city of La Puebloto. Much of the fighting happened in and around the city. As such, civilians fled to other settlements on the island, mainly the former Terra Fin Tin, long ago. Now the city is in ruins, and there is no one here. However, lest anyone think Eslandola has overlooked any needy refugees, Eslandolan troops have rebuilt a small Mardiedrian watchtower on an abnormally rocky (for this bay) piece of the coast. It probably served more as a warning to sailors to stay clear of the hazard than anything else, but Eslandolan troops now man the tower and make sure no refugees are overlooked in La Puebloto. Eventually they hope to rebuild the city. --- A quick build to address the current situation on Isla de Victoria. It will be licensed as a small fort. The tower began life as a Kingdoms set, but has been greatly modified. All C&C welcome.

Official Voting Thread fot the Colonial Council of Eslandola [Anyone willing to MOC a ballot-scene?] Procedure * Naturally it is the ALs responsibility to initiate a voting * However any Council Member may initiate a voting * Every proposal must be made to the Council in the Council thread first, before a vote can start * standard-duration for votings is three days, a deadline will be set. * every character of the Council has to cast their vote as a post * there does not have to be a separate post for each vote * The initiator or the AL will count the votes afterwards and proclaim the result * members with more than one vote may split their votes Voters: * Román Esteban Fontonajo, 4 votes * Colonel Brickinson * George da Pontelli * Alberto da Pontelli * Willem Guildert * Aaron van der Meede * Captain Philip Janszen * Jerome Monezterrell * Captain Lamar Evercrees * Farrucio Paraja * Colonel Oystridge * Victor Servadac * Marquis Alkurda * Raphael Fontonajo * Joaquin Seramon Fontonajo * Lord Maximilian Damaximus * Sir Yohannes Ethiximus * General Samu The Dragon Decision Log: Proposal 1-A: We, the Colonial Council of Eslandola, agree with the Continental Council's suggestion to confer the title of Secretary of the Navy, and all the responsibilities that infers, upon Jerome Monezterrell. Result: passed (20 for, 0 against, 1 abstention) Proposal: Captain Whiffo's Royal Property Letter and Tax plan "Until such time as the first Royal Eslandolan property may be licenced, or for the next two months (whichever ends sooner), I would propose that we put in place, A 20% tax on build submittal income, And a 10% tax on town banks, as per the good Governor's proposal. After said time expires, the treasury could be scrutinized, and any need for further taxation considered. "As for Royal Properties, I suggest that we send out a letter signed by the members of the Colonial Council to every settlement of Eslandola, asking for voluntary aid for the construction of three Royal Properties for the faction - the first to be completed between the first of June and the last of August, the second between the first of September and the last of November, and the third between the first of December and the last of February of the year 618. If they could be completed sooner - even better! But I do believe that is a modest goal to aim for at the moment, given that all our citizens have their own stories and wallets to be looking after as well." Result: Passed (12 'Aye's, 2 'Nay's, 1 Abstention, and 4 chaps on vacation) Proposal 1-B: We, the Colonial Council of Eslandola, enact the following funding of properties licensed by any Eslandolan in any Eslandolan settlement in the Colonies from January 17th, 617 AE to April 17th, 617 AE: - 15 Dubloons for every small property - 30 Dubloons for every medium property - 50 Dubloons for every large property - 500 Dubloons for every royal property (only 150 Dubloons for private palaces) - 15 Dubloons for prospecting - 20 Dubloons for setting up any mine Result: passed (11 for, 10 against) Proposal 1-C: We, the Colonial Council of Eslandola, enact the following funding of ships licensed by any Eslandolan from January 17th, 617 AE to April 17th, 617 AE: - 10 Dubloons for ships rated class 0 or class 1 - 25 Dubloons for ships rated class 2 - 45 Dubloons for ships rated class 3, or 80 Dubloons if sold to Eslandola - 75 Dubloons for ships rated class 4, or 150 Dubloons if sold to Eslandola - 100 Dubloons for ships rated class 5 or higher, or 200 Dubloons if sold to Eslandola Result: passed (20 for, 1 against, 0 abstentions) Proposal 2: All (active) Eslandolan members co-operate to build at least 3 Royal Properties, licenced by Eslandola. Until such time as the first Royal Eslandolan property may be licenced, or for the next two months (whichever ends sooner), I would propose that we put in place, - A 20% tax on build submittal income, - And a 10% tax on town banks, as per the good Governor's proposal. After said time expires, the treasury could be scrutinized, and any need for further taxation considered. Result: passed (12 for, 3 against, 6 abstentions) Proposal 3: Please vote on the new salaries for the members of the Colonial Council: 3a) Don't alter current salaries (50 DBs for Admius Legistrad, 25 DBs for members of the council) 3b) Reduce salaries as suggested by Román Fontonajo (15 DBs for Admius Legistrad, 10 DBs for members of the council) 3c) Reduce salaries based on the suggestion from Governor Damaximus (10 DBs for Admius Legistrad, 5 DBs for members of the council) 3d) Eliminate salaries entirely as suggested by Aaron van der Meede. 3e) Members may voluntarily reduce their own salaries on an individual basis. Half of the reduction stays with Eslandola, the other half goes to another council member of their choice. Based on the suggestion of Agent Guelds. Result: 3d) Members of the Colonial Council are paid no more (1x 3a, 5x 3b, 2x 3c, 12x 3d, 1x 3e) Current Votings: None

Name: Mehit Ownership: Eslandola Location: Isla de Victoria, Prio Sea Map: Geographical Features: Mostly jungle on the inside, this larger island boasts an excellent natural bay on its south side at the Island's thinnest point. The north-east coast, however is very shallow, and rife with sandbars. The south-west coasts are rocky, but host naturally occurring groves of citrus fruit. In the center of the island towers a tall volcano that occasionally shakes the Island.Rumors: The Natives of this Island fear the deeper waters to the south. While they are more than happy to sail their catamarans in the northern shallow water, they refuse to do so on the southern coast. Mayor: A native from the tribe of the Mehuãtajir or the Aztclaxclans to be determine (Faladrin) Trade Value: 10 Town Bank: 0 Who can own property in Mehit: As a native setllement under Eslandola jurisdiction, the buildings are for now reserved. Eslandolan natives'friends can build here, other players should ask permission first. Thank you for your understanding. Who can freebuild in Mehit: Every Native friendly man. Description : During the war between Mardier and Eslandola, the native tribes haven't been well considered. They had a way to raise their voice when Captain Jan Zwartbaard found a ruined native village in a little creek. It appeared that Mardier was a cruel master for the natives on Isla de Victoria and the 2 tribes present there, the Mehuãtajir : the seafarers, catamaran builders and fishermen, and the Aztclaxcans, the farmers, the builders and tinkerers were both afraid of their ancient masters. The offer of the Eslandolan crown to help to repair the settlement of Mehit had been received as a great message of hope from the Native People and it is with great enthousiasm they began to rebuild Mehit, the ruined settlement, with their new Green allies. Please help us out building in Mehit by asking Eslandola or the natives (Faladrin) before posting your build and don't forget to post a link to your Mehit builds in this thread. To ease the bureaucracy, it is nice if you mention which size it is. Licensee is Listed after the type of licence. Properties: 2/11 Size for EGS purposes - Hamlet : <11 properties Residences: Factories: Artisans: Commerce: Art and Culture: 1 Educational: Plantations: Mines: Forts: Other Buildings: 1

BOBs Brief Stories 05 : Pax Corlandia and its side effects It has been noticed those days on the coast of Isla de Victoria, the new Eslandolan domain, that some scientists in a hurry to discover the wonders of the native habitat could have been clumsy and would have been considered impolite by the local tribe of the Mehuãtajir, the Seafarers of the shallow waters of the north of the island. We have been reported in MAESTRO, by some Ténotclaxcans scouts Jan Zwartbaard is employing to rebuild Mehit, that a group of such clumsy red scientist, perhaps from the WTC have been seen alterate a native tomb. It was said, that, for their defense, they were looking for the giant purple Mauve, a splendid flower that is flourishing in this area. But, instead of finding the flower, the one-eyed assistant of the scientist would have opened by mistake the tomb. As the tomb was open at his arrival, the scientist didn't missed the opportunity to study the amazing treasure the Mehuãtajir left to their deads ! The angry natives invited the rude scientists to stop their activities quite rapidly. It is unsure now for the Ténotclaxcan scouts what have become of those redcoats. If they were Redcoats and not just Pirates disguised in Redcoats. Thank you for reading. This little build could be considered as a Culture build for Mehit and can be licensed.

When Captain Mesabi of the WTC called for aid after the tragedy in Nova Malto, and Eslandola responded in record time. This build marks the arrival of our Regiment there, to help with humanitarian issues as well as help finding the reason for the recently blown up ship.

Settlement Name: La Puebloto Ownership: Eslandola Crown Location: Isla de Victoria Mayor: TBD Trade Value: 0 Who can own property in La Puebloto: Anyone. Who can freebuild in La Puebloto: Anyone. Fortifications: One small fort. Please post any free-builds that take place in La Puebloto in this thread. If you want to license a piece of property in La Puebloto, post in this thread and fill out the web form. Location of La Puebloto:

With the war against Mardier concluded, Eslandola quickly fortified its new settlement of Puerto Desafio (at the site of the former Terra Fin Tin) with the construction of Fort Brickwall. Named for the many great war heroes from the Brickwall family, the protection radius of this royal fortress covers the entire island, as well as Trador and Otoño . It was fun building a microbuild royal fortress. I didn't have enough 1x1 gray tiles to finish it off the way I wanted, but I'm still happy with how it came out. All C&C welcome!

Just in time for the March trade convoy, I present the launching of the 5T Light Terraman La Contessa de Victoria. The Contessa is a stern mistress, as the figurehead suggests. The crew is busy on deck, although one deckhand takes a moment to gaze at the horizon from the foc's'l. A chest still needs to be stowed away. Sails are set and men are in the rigging. La Contessa is ready to sail for a new port. Some additional pictures from above: ---------------------- This was my first time using the string with handholds for rigging. I still have some kinks to work out with it, but I'm happy with this first attempt. I also focused on improving the gallery design I initially used on the Heart of Eslandia / Prince Fernando. Also, the decking is much better internally on this effort. Eventually I'll build one with an accessible and detailed captain's quarters. As always, all C&C welcome.

[The Secret of the 8 Provinces - Prelude] [The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 1st Chapter] The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 2nd Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 3rd Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 4th Chapter Captain Cookie continued: And so the highwayman .... Lady De Summer: Does this man actually have a name? Oh, yes. He called himself the "Red Fandango". Lady De Summer: Hardly his real name... So the Red Fandango finally had three ships in his possession. Lady De Summer: Three? You have only mentioned two models that he has stolen or robbed! Quite right. He had inherited the third ship. Or rather the "first" ship. He had found it in the attic of his family home after his father had passed away. And he also knew what to expect from the models. He just had to take them apart. Lady De Summer: (gasping) Hidden in the hull of the first ship was a sea map. And the second model produced another map - showing specific islands in that sea region. He had to pay attention not to ruin his fine red coat as the second map had partly been drowned in some blueberry juice or so. ... and the third ship? Contained a map showing a certain bay on an unspecified island. I cannot quite follow. What are all these maps about? Well, madam, the maps were chosen and designed in such a way that you would only find the destination once you had all three of them. The first one defined a large region of the sea. But you would not know what to do with it. The second one specified an island - which you would not be able to locate without the first map. The final map then displays the location of a special bay on that island. And what is to be found in that bay? The famous wreck of the "8 Provinces"! My dear captain, you need to help me out: What was the "8 Provinces"? That, my dear Lady, I will be telling you in a minute. [to be continued]

The estate of Mr. Henderson proudly announces the launch of a new rum destillery in Puerto Desafio (former Terra Fin Tin) on Isla de Victoria: As you can see, this is a large factory and will be licensed accordingly. Hr. H. has announced that their production will be second to none - a splendid time is guaranteed for all!

[The Secret of the 8 Provinces - Prelude] [The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 1st Chapter] The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 2nd Chapter The Secret of the 8 Provinces - 3rd Chapter Captain Cookie continued: And so in the days that followed Corrington troops were guarding towns and noblemen. But despite all of their efforts, our highwayman was unstoppable. And he found something in the attic of a house. "Gold?" Lady de Summer asked. "No, of course not. Another model of a ship." ,,, and then he vanished into the night. I cannot believe that Corrington did nothing about this. Oh, Mylady, they did. And they had to. A lawyer in a bad mood appeared at Colonel Greybeards office. Colonel Greybeard: Hello, old chum, fine fellow, come in, come in. Who are ye? Lawyer: I am a certified lawyer of the high-esteemed Frank, Frank, Frank, Frank and Wrzygrislovsky. Colonel Greybeard: Jolly good, old chum. And which one of them is you? Lawyer: I am Wrzygrislovsky. But that is beside the point. My client demands that this robber be caught and punished. Colonel Greybeard: Good Golly, Miss Molly. Yes, yes, old pal, we're working on it. Horses for courses. Righty right. Never look a gift apple in the mouth. Lawyer: My client is not under the impression that your men are investing the required effort. Colonel Greybeard: Blimey. Terribly sorry, my friend, rest assured we are doing the best we can. Mouse and man. Lawyer: Then that may not be enough. Double your efforts, or you will face the consequences. [leaves] Colonel Greybeard (mutters to himself): Shiver me timbers... I'll send my best men... again. [C&C welcome]

Challenge V Cat E : The El Dorado ritual The Doctor Gellibrand, who is studying the Ténotclaxcans, reported to Felipe de la Manzana a strange story the Tribe told him : It is said the Ténotclaxcans were rich It is said the Ténotclaxcans are not alone. It is said the Ténotclaxcans are from the far east. . What The Doctor understood from that is the tribe is probably issued from a more distant land far east with many treasures ! The analysis of The Doctor went further away when Pinya (the shaman's daughter, always ready to help Felipe and his loyal first officer Basil) described him a ritual called the El Dorado ritual which is now forbidden in the tribe : It is said their ancestors, in order to calm the fire god, had to throw gold directly to his mouth ! The ritual consisted in wearing gold, being tainted in gold and throwing an amount of gold into the rock in fusion of a volcano. If the god was satisfied, he would not erupt, otherwise, he would destroy the entire island. It is said some advised navigators of the tribe decided to flee away, out of range of this cruel volcano god to stop worshipping him. They could have been the first Ténotclaxcans ! Well, according to The Doctor's analysis, the Ténotclaxcans are clearly issued from this eastern tribe, and this tribe is possibly still existing, and can have a huge stock of gold ! Pinya confirmed to Felipe that the Golden tribe is probably real, and she is adding that their Golden Priest, the one who is doing the El Dorado ritual, could bring to Felipe some precious informations on the Golden Apple he is searching ! After months of recon and many scouting teams sent out to the sea to encounter those golden natives, it appeared the Bumbel Tuna Company from Mardier knew where to find a gold city, full of golden people ready to "finance" their project of death on all Eslandola... The Ténotclaxcans scouts managed to discover the tribe position through the Mardier Company in Maldria, one of the New Haven Sea major islands. What they saw was amazing and alarming at the same time ! First, the El Dorado ritual is still common for the Doratclaxcans, as they want to be named : But the Ténotclaxcans scouts saw that Mardier and the Bumbel Tuna Company were ready to take over the gold by any means ! They saw the yellow soldiers attack the Golden Priest and his suite to catch him alive just to exchange his life against a good amount of gold from the Doratclaxcans ! Of course, the Ténotclaxcans identified the Mardieran camp position, near the wall of the Golden City, and it was rapidly decided to send to the Priest a rescue team ! It was obviously Felipe and Basil who lead the operation on the island of the Doratclaxcans. They attacked by surprise the little mardieran oupost built upon the cave the Priest was imprisoned. The battle was quick and the Mardieran soldiers surrender at the death of their commander. Felipe freed the Golden Priest and to thank the Eslandian and their Ténotclaxcans allied he offered more than a good golden treasure ! He told an essential information to Felipe about how to find the Golden Apple : - The map is the key ! Like this, it is incomplete ! You must find the second half ! The maps are the keys ! These were the words of the Golden Priest of the Doratclaxcans. Will Felipe and Basil find that second half of map and who's got it ? who can tell... At least Mardier has lost a treasure and is broke, a good news for the Eslandolan Crown ! Thank you for reading ! C&Cs are welcome !

To all the citizens, nations, and peoples of the Brick Seas! The nation of Eslandola, being currently busily prosecuting its war with the preying nation of Mardier, brought on by said nation’s ruthless and unprovoked attacks upon Eslandolan shipping of all kinds without the slightest discrimination, does this day (October 12th, 616) offer a letter of marque to privateers of the honourable nations of Corrington and Oleon (and Eslandola, of course), as well as to any free-lancers of good reputation, granting the captains of ships holding said letter the right to attack and take any warships sailing the Mardierian flag, as well as any warships sailing under a Mardierian letter of marque – which ships shall be considered as right and lawful prizes of war in all courts. The High Council of Eslandola shall further reward any captain that may accept this letter of marque with full possession of any vessels taken by his ship, as well as a reward of 110 gold doubloons for any Mardierian warship (or any warship allied with said disgraced nation) sunk or captured, to be paid by the crown upon proof of the fact. Signed, The High Council of Eslandola - E. T. Wilkinson de Chauncourtois Guy K. Wyndzon In order to receive an Eslandolan letter of marque, please either sign up for it in this thread, or PM either Kai or me (or both preferably, if you have the ability) for one, which we will attempt to confirm before the deadline for the next MRCA (the 15th). Fire away!

Category E results: Winning Side: 1st Place: Mardier (Score: 20,38) 2nd Place: Eslandola (Score: 20,11) Faction Winners: 1st Place: Oleon (Score: 17,70) 2nd Place: Corrington (Score: 17,05) 3rd Place: Sea Rats (Score: 14,85) Individual Winners: 1st Place: Ayrlego (MAR) (again!! ) - Prize, A new island (of the Prio seas) of your choice for your faction and 600 DBs - and 31065 Park Street Townhouse Runner-up: Faladrin & Captain Braunsfeld (ESL) - Prize, 500 DBs (/2 = 250DBs each) And lastly, the Cat. E write-up No write-up needed! The Overall results will be published very shortly, so stay tuned! (Well, maybe tomorrow morning - don't stay up all night in suspense, please! ) Once again, a very impressive showing, guys, thanks to you all, and congrats to the winners!

With apologies to George Lucas and Steven Spielberg... The year is 617. Mardier forces are looking for the rumored Lost City of Gold in an effort to fund their war effort against Eslandola. Without the gold, Mardier’s war effort is doomed. And so Eslandola has sent Thaddeus Calvo, an adventurer and sometimes spy, to find the lost city before Mardier does. In the jungles of an island east of the Prio Seas, Calvo has risked life and limb to retrieve a golden idol with clues to the location of the lost city. But as he emerges from the depths of the jungle, he is surprised by his oft-times rival, Dr. René Belóche, an Oleon adventurer now working in the employ of Mardier. “Eslandola Jones … we meet again!” exclaimed René. (“Jones” was one of Calvo’s aliases, and although René knew Calvo’s real name, he enjoyed calling him this in a mocking fashion.) René was accompanied by several local warriors of the Hovito tribe. “Quite a situation you’re in, eh?” Rene extended his hand. “I’ll take that idol now. Once again what was briefly yours is now mine.” Calvo reached for his bag, and the Hovito warriors readied their spears in case he pulled a weapon. But all he did was reluctantly hand over the golden idol. The Hovitos thought René had retrieved it for them, but Calvo knew René would steal it from them as well. “Too bad the Hovitos don’t know you like I do, René,” said Calvo. “True,” replied René. “You could warn them … if only you spoke Hovitos!” René then raised the idol high to display it to the Hovitos. As their attention was diverted to the idol, Calvo bolted for his boat back at the river. With a quick word and motion, René commanded the Hovito warriors to go after him. Calvo narrowly made his escape. * * * Back in Nova Terreli, Calvo met with one of his contacts, Salejandro, and with Calvo’s longtime friend, Madame Marian Villeneuve. With Salejandro’s help, Calvo was able to discern the meaning of the symbols he had seen on the golden idol. “I know where it is, Marian! The Lost City of Gold -- I can find it in a week,” exclaimed Calvo. “You mean WE can find it in a week,” stated Marian firmly. “What? You can’t go with me,” replied Calvo. “Oh yes I can. After all the adventures I’ve funded with little in return, until we find the Lost City of Gold, I’m your G** D*** partner!” And so Calvo and Marian found passage on the Bantu Wind, a ship heading east. Captain Katanga looked like the sort of fellow who had been through a few close scrapes and knew how to smuggle something past the authorities. Now Calvo and Marian needed Katanga to smuggle them past Mardier ships on patrol in the Prio Seas. But Mardier had their spies as well, and René knew Calvo’s methods. As the Bantu Wind reached the far eastern waters of the Prio Seas, René was waiting, intercepting them with a Mardier gunship. Katanga alerted Calvo to hide. When the Bantu Wind was boarded by René and his Mardier companions, Katanga surrendered to protect his ship and crew. The Mardier troops searched the ship for Calvo, but could not find him. “Where is he?” demanded the Mardierian colonel. “I killed him,” replied Katanga. “He was of no value to me. Take whatever you want from my cargo, but leave the lady; she has value where we are headed.” The colonel was incensed. “We will take what we want, pirate scum,” he declared, “and then we will decide whether or not to blow your ship out of the water!” The colonel pulled Marian away from Katanga, but René took custody of her instead. René had known her in younger days and had always been jealous of her relationship with Calvo. As soon as the Mardierians were off the ship, Katanga ordered his men to find Calvo, still hidden on the ship. But he could not be found. While watching the Mardierian gunship depart, one of Katanga’s men found him. “There he is!” he exclaimed, pointing aft of the Mardierian ship. Calvo was in the water, his whip wrapped around the rudder! * * * René had also discerned the location of the Lost City of Gold from the clues on the golden idol, and soon they reached their destination. René and the Mardierians made their way into the jungle, and Calvo made his way ashore and followed them. As they slowed down, Calvo diverted around them through the jungle and found a suitable spot for an ambush, a small pass through a ridge. “Hello René!” yelled Calvo from the top of the ridge. “Eslandola Jones?!” René queried in exasperation. “How? What are you doing here?” “I don’t care about the gold anymore,” said Calvo. “I came for the lady.” But before Calvo could rescue Marian from René, a few Mardierian soldiers quietly climbed the ridge and apprehended the Eslandolan. René and the Mardierians proceeded through the jungle with Calvo and Marian in tow. Their objective should be over this next ridge. And when they reached the top of the ridge, they could see the ruins of an ancient city in the valley below. They descended into the ruins, and there they saw a golden chest upon an altar. René had Calvo and Marian tied up so they could not interfere. With the Mardierian colonel at his side, René prepared to open the golden chest. “Marian,” whispered Calvo, “whatever you do, don’t look at the treasure, and definitely don’t touch it!” For Calvo had also discerned not only the location of the Lost City of Gold, but also its curse. And so, when René opened the chest and ran his hands through its contents of gold coins, he and the colonel, and the other Mardierian soldiers looking on, were turned to gold. * * * And so Mardier was denied the treasure to fund its war effort. Calvo and Marian stole the Mardierian gunship and made it back to civilization. And as for the location of the Lost City of Gold and its curse? That will stay a secret. Calvo reported that the Mardierian efforts to find it were in vain, as the rumored city did not exist.