Bregir

Malto, July 617 AE To his Royal Majesty, King Philip's representatives, I write to inform you that last night, one of your vessels picked up an individual near Malto on Isla de Medio, thinking it was Captain Giovanni Lorenzini, mayor of the settlement. The good captain assures me that he is most obliged to you for your offer of asylym and pension, but cannot in good conscience leave the people he has sworn his life to serve. As you will by now have figured, the person who boarded your vessel was not Captain Giovanni Lorenzini, but an imposter, who had only recently assaulted the real Lorenzini. and stolen his papers and the letter from your agent. Corrington will not hold your actions against you, being in good faith, but wish to inform you that the man you are transporting may be a criminal, and possibly the saboteur behind the explosion in the port. In any case, he is guilty of assault and have had reason to escape undetected. We suggest that you make every possible effort to apprehend the imposter, although this letter may well arrive too late for effective action. Your humble servant Don Isaac Montoya

Entering the settlement, Montoya's mind was at once distracted from its troubling paths. The city was buzzing with rumours of the mayor himself being assaulted. Being their symbol of safety and peace, the citizens were highly upset, speculating who might have been behind the attack. There was talk of Olean and Eslandian agents, and of pirates settled nearby, all suspects in the mind of the people. Montoya at once rushed to the old city hall, where Operation Pax Corlandia had its headquarters. Here he was surprised to meet an only sligthly bruised Lorenzini about to tell Major Bradley of the incident. By Bregir "Ah, Montoya - Come in and listen here. Last night, under the cover of darkness, I recieved a strange letter from an Olean agent. Or so the letter claims, at least." Lorenzini explained. "I thought very little of it, not being willing to leave the people in my charge, so I did not reply. After a while, though, it dawned on me that it may be relevant for our negotiations, so I left my lodgings to come discuss it with Major Bradley." "However, I didn't make it far. Halfway here, I was struck down by some ruffian in an alley. As I recovered, I found my money, passport, and the letter gone! Probably some poor victim of the war - no reason to press the issue..." "Perhaps...." Montoya seemed doubtful, and looked to Major Bradley, who now spoke up: "We are happy to find you so swiftly recovered, Signore, but I doubt it was just a mugging. Witnesses have reported seeing a fishing boat picking up four people in the middle of the night. One of them presented himself as Lorenzini, wafting around something that looked a passport and a letter, and the others spoke Olean with the crew." "Is it so?" Montoya raised an eyebrow. "We are working to confirm it, sir, but the investigations is somewhat hindered by the fact that the imposter appears to have been bribing his way through the Eslandian ranks. Between the sightings at the alley and the fishing boat he was reported handing a purse to an Eslandian soldier outside the city..." "Are you suggesting foul play?" Lorenzini asked. "I only present the case as is." Bradley said with a shrug. "Hmm, it would seem something is afoot." Montoya suggested. "Could anyone have known of the letter's contents?" "Undoubtedly. The inn where I make my lodgings is home to all sorts of people, refugees, mercenaries without pay..." "I figured as much. My best guess is this: Someone was desparate to leave Malto, and heard of the deal Oleon offered you. He then followed you outside, knocked you down and stole the letter and your passport, using these to lure the Oleanders into taking him aboard, thinking he was you." Montoya looked at them, both nodding. "Someone must be anxious to leave Malto." "There is the matter of the explosion, sir..." Bradley interjected. "It could be the saboteur himself... Or any other criminal, of course..." "Or someone fearing Eslandian prosecution, perhaps..." Lorenzini added. "Indeed! But the imposter will be out ot reach of any message we can send and long gone once it would catch up with the vessel. Nonetheless, I shall write a letter to an Olean representative. They might not want to hand over military commissions, pensions, or asylymn to a violent crook..." Both nodded in agreement. "Also, we should discuss the negotiations... I fear the Eslandians are not very likely to grant Malto independence. I am very sorry, Signore, and I shall do anything in my power to uphold the promises made by Corrington to you and your people. But perhaps it is time to look for alternative solutions..." Montoya was relieved. Now it was out there. "Don Montoya, I think you for being frank. However, neither myself nor the people of Malto are keen on Eslandian overlords. Afterall, they have very vehemently denied us our neutrality, and even threatened us with force..." "I agree the show of force could easily be taken for a threat, but I doubt that is truly the intention, Signore..." "Nonetheless, the prospects of Eslandian assimilation does not sit well with us. They have shown very little interest in hearing us out. Corrington, on the other hand..." Lorenzini added with a bow: "Came to our aid without a question the moment we asked..." "I was hoping you would say something like this..." Montoya beckoned them both to come closer. "I think I might have a solution that will leave everyone better off in the end..." And so discussions went on for an hour or so, ending with three smiling faces and a tot of rum. "So be it, good sirs. I shall return to the negotiations shortly to see if not the Eslandians will agree..." By Ayrlego ______________________________________________________________________ OOC: First moc by yours truly, second by Ayrlego (in case you missed the subtext and his characteristic style... :P ) Montoya might have something new to bring to the table when he returns, and it seems someone escaped from the island aided (although under false pretences) by Oleon agents. We really couldn't let you guys decide the fate of one of our characters (Ayrlego's, to be exact) so we figured out this little story, which I personally think makes the whole thing even more interesting, particularly considering the talks of a saboteur in Malto... ;)

If Montoya had been the sort to drag his feet, he would be doing so now, making his way back to Malto. Baker, abundantly aware of his state of mind, kept back, leaving Montoya to the depths of his thoughts. And deep they were. What was he to say to Lorenzini and the people of Malto? And how could he ensure that Corrington could keep its promises. Pondering this for a while, a thought started forming in his mind. He would have to talk to Lorenzini. __________________ OOC: Ok, just a quick update to say I am not gone! I will build a small moc to show what happens next in Malto, including a reaction to Bodi's build.

"Past unpleasantries..." Montoya mumbled. "Am I to understand that you are not willing to discuss a treaty securing the neutrality of Malto? In that case, I am here on false premises, and will break off negotiations at this very moment to reconsider our position." Casting a questioning glance at the Eslandians he added: "Before leaving I should like to inform you that your Captain Argentum has landed on Corlander territory. I can only assume that provocation is not official Eslandian policy at this moment, and will expect that the proper actions are taken." Montoya bowed deeply to each of them and walked off followed by young Baker.

Dear sir, Your letter has been received, but in it, I find no proof of any alliance or aiding of Mardier, but the half dubloon(!) offered by Captain Mesabi. If such quibbles is not below the threshold of what Eslandola considers relevant, I shall hereby denounce that offering as contrary to official Corlander policy. However, no court in Corrington will sit for such a small amount. As to the payment made to Mardier regarding information of a native settlement on Cascadia, that is internal Corlander policy, regarding Corlander territory, and is entirely unrelated to the war. It no more violates our neutrality in the conflict than does sending observers to both sides of the conflict. As to alleged accusations made in my communications, I am more than willing to substantiate or entirely withdraw them. And Signore Lorenzini has no wish to be a pawn in an Eslandian play for power, nor any military ambitions. Eslandian efforts to decide his fate by politics has been an affront to the whole tripartition of power. In the civilised world, the courts determine the guilt or innocence of the accused, not a collection of democrats. It saddens me that you should persist with these unsubstantiated accusations and this categorical claim to territory so contrary to the stated policy of your operations. Sincerely Don Isaac Montoya Consul

Montoya turned to young Baker, who stated ruffling through some papers. "You know full well why Corrington was not a part to the conflict, good sirs. Need I remind you that while publicly and privately exclaiming your great commitment to the friendship between our nations, you declined first our offer of an alliance, and then of a barely defensive alliance, both of which on the grounds that war "might not be in your interest at any given time"! " He looked around the table. " Both agreements which would have ensured Corrington's support in the war against Mardier! " Shaking his head, he continued: " Not even a letter of intent were we given, before you launched your invasion! Not an invitation to discuss the matter after it was known!" " All we were bestowed were loose statements that this was not an act of aggressive expansion, statements we have acted upon in the best intentions." "And allow me to clarify one point. The people of Malto have no interest in becoming citizens of Eslandola, just like they have none in becoming Corlander. They have too long lived under the yoke of a far away elite, and wish to put themselves in no position that may repeat this situation. "

I think we will make it easier for the automation team if we wait until something has been agreed :)

"Is it official Eslandian diplomatic policy to throw about unfounded accusations? Several times I have been confronted with the claim that we should have aided Mardier in the war, yet not a single shred of proof have I seen! We have even offered to pursue such matters legally, should you present us any evidence, but you have provided nothing of the sorts." Obviously somewhat angered by these accusations, Montoya continued: " And as if general accusations against our entire nation was not sufficient, you add accusations of terrorism and war crimes against Signore Lorenzini, a man who chose to scorn former masters to pursue the safety of his people?" Standing up straight, Montoya narrowed his eyes with indignation for a short moment and turned to the messenger with a hush, taking the letter and wafting away the young soldier. Reading the letter, he seemed to be further infuriated. " I must add that the Crown of Corrington does not support the WTC's claim to the city, as it will not be in the interest of the people."

"I assure you, Corrington has neither been informed of nor signed any treaties regarding this island." Brushing this aside, he adds with a somewhat confused air: "Several times, Eslandian officials have ensured us that this war was not the consequence of an Eslandian policy of aggressive expansion. Yet the matter most important to you appears to be ensuring full annexation of the island. You must forgive me, but of this I cannot make sense. " Montoya, looking genuinely confused, looked from one to the other with a questioning glance.

"... When foolish hope prevail over bitter experience..." Montoya mumbled to himself before continuing, entirely ignoring the young captain for now. "I was called to these negotiations with a clear indication that Eslandola was willing to discuss a treaty to ensure the neutrality of Malto, not negotiate the terms of its surrender. Are these premises in error?" he said, sending a steely gaze at the negotiators.

((General OOC note: remember only to define your own reactions and let others respond.))

I could use a small vignette of a message somehow reaching Montoya at the negotiations. (with news of Pax Corlandia) Any takers? :) I will need it fast-ish. (No faster than what quality prescribes, though, but it will determine when Montoya reacts to Crab Kailandia or whatever. ;))

Montoya sent a surprisingly cold and reptilian glance at the intruder, held his gaze for one horrible moment, and turned his attention to the Eslandians. "Allow me to set the situation here. Captain Mesabi is a representative of the WTC, a trade company with loose ties to Corrington." Turning back to Mesabi he added in a low and frightful growl: "Ties so loose, they may be broken any time..."

To Felipe de la Manzana, At the sight of such an elegant and imposing vessel our gunners held their breath for a while, crouching behind their guns. Imagine their relief when she put her head to the wind, dropped anchor and started unloading supplies. The fresh foods will be a welcome change from the preserved foods currently being served, and we appreciate the efforts tremendously. However, you may inform your countrymen that the people of Malto is well provisioned, and that you may direct your efforts elsewhere for the time being. Sincerely Don Isaac Montoya ______________________________ Beautiful ship, Faladrin, and very fitting story. It is a fabulous entry to the Malto storyline!

"If your opening position is that our presence is unacceptable, I fear I have very little chance of any constructive negotiation. Corrington stands by its promises and will not abandon the guarantees we have given the people of Malto." Montoya looked around, suddenly looking pale and drawn. "Allow me to present our position: We came here at the request of Lorenzini to aid the people of Malto and ensure their right to govern themselves. Considering Isla de Victoria in danger of incursions from opportunists from all over the Brick Seas as a desolate, abandoned battlefield with no authorities to protect the citizens, we saw no option but to act. As to the premise that the refugees had anything to fear is not ours, but theirs, and initially I would have called it nonsence. In fact, Signore Lorenzini will tell you that I said as much." Looking around at the Eslandians, he continued: "However, I have since come to change that position. In fact, I specifically adviced Lorenzini not to join these negotiations, as I fear he would put himself in danger of political prosecution! In several official letters from prominent Eslandians, I have found clear indications that this may be the case, and I no longer felt I could guarantee his legal rights."

Montoya bowed deeply before the assembled Eslandian representatives. "An impressive mission, I must say." Montoya said as he lifted his hat in a flurry. "I fear you will have to make do with my own humble presence. I am don Isaac Montoya, Consul to her Royal Majesty, Queen Annetta, and Chairman of the Royal Society of Natural Philosophy. I believe I have had the pleasure of conducting correspondence with several of you." "This young man is Charles Baker, my research assistant. He will assist me with administrative tasks." Looking around, he continued: "As you know the headlines of our position, perhaps you will lead with your positions on the matter? I shall be happy to address any questions you may have." (Over to you guys, @Capt Wolf - I shall try to be ready to reply quickly :) )

At the port of Malto, a small Corlander bomb ketch was lying sheets a-flying, its captain impatient to leave before the turn of the tide, to be able to clear the narrow channel and sandbanks. No wonder the natives generally stuck to smallcrafts in these waters. It had just arrived from King's Harbour with different supplies for the city, as well as Sir Anton Hughes, renowned doctor of the Royal Society, who was already rushing towards the city to lend his aid, while the sailors were rushing to unload the supplies. Underway, it had picked up Don Isaac Montoya, en route from Cascadia in the Pioneer, who had had to rush away from his precious scientific adventures to once more set foot on the very same Isla de Victoria he had only recently left behind, tired of war. Suffice to say, this had not left him in the best of moods. He was now discussing matters with constituted mayor, Giovanni Lorenzini (now in civilian attire) and Major William Bradley, commandant of the garrison. "A sad pickle we have gotten ourselves into here, good sirs." Montoya exclaimed. "I had never figured the Eslandians would bring us to the brink of war over a humanitarian mission..." "And quite close to the boiling point, I must say. National Eslandian troops, as well as several companies of mercenaries, have marched towards the gates, apparently unable to understand the meaning of an order, nor of enforced neutrality!" Major Bradley added. "I am not sure if they expected us to simply roll over at the sight of such overwhelming odds..." Montoya shrugged and replied "They do tend to lend more credence to pragmatism than principle, Major. I have seen it many times. What baffles me the most is the number of officials issuing often conflicting diplomatic statements and requests, some of which are hardly flattering. One would think they would be better off with a more coordinated effort, particularly to weed out the more inconstructive statements..." "A sad democratic lot, it seems!" "Indeed, Major, indeed. Although we ourselves have that captain of the WTC..." Montoya added. "What is the military situation?" "We are outnumbered something like 8 to 1, and even with the fortifications I wouldn't expect us to last long against a determined assault. However, the lads are well-provisioned, entrenched upon the battlements, and ready to enforce her Royal Majesty's guarantee to the last grain of powder. And so am I." "I am pleased to hear it" Montoya was swelling with national pride at these words. "And the citizens?" For the first time since the initial greeting, Giovanni Lorenzini spoke up: "The people of Malto are more determined than ever to support your troops, sirs. Without a guarantee of our rights, none of us want to see Eslandian forces in our city, and we are much indebted to you for your help." "Thank you, I am pleased to hear, and so I believe the Major is" At this, the Major bowed silently. "I will say again, though, that I think you give the Eslandians too little credit." Montoya said in a serious voice, adding: "Which is why I hope you will accept that I shall meet them for negotiations for the neutral status of Malto?.." "Certainly, sir! I have full confidence that you will ensure my people the rights we have agreed upon." Lorenzini said with a respectful bow of his head. "And I shall happily accompany you to the negotiations..." Montoya raised his hand and shaked his head: "Perhaps I spoke too soon of the merits of the Eslandians. I fear they have singled you out for a scapegoat, and wish to prosecute you. At least, so their communications imply..." "I will stand any fair, neutral trial for my deeds!" "So I am aware, Signore Lorenzini, but at present, I fear I cannot in good conscience tell you that that is what you will face in the hands of the Eslandians..." Montoya sighed, distraught. "But should I get the proper guarantees, and be in need of your assistance, I shall call for you." "I thank you for your candour, don Montoya, and will heed your advice" "Thank you, Signore. You will see to the settlements well-being, I am sure. Major Bradley, you will do anything in your power to avoid any affronts, but should they turn to force, you will make Corrington proud, I am certain." Montoya said in a serious voice, before shrugging off the worst of his worries. "I best be off. I shall take none but young Baker." Both bowed their heads in reply, looking somewhat concerned that this strange little man should go alone into the arms of what currently very much seemed like an enemy. _______________________________________________________________ Ok, that is Corrington's preparations for the peace talks - Montoya will soon arrive at the rendez-vouz to negotiate. I liked how Capt Wolf somewhat gave away some of Eslandola's positions (which obviously, Montoya IC doesn't know), so I have tried to do the same here. So lets make sure to remember what we know IC and OOC respectively - otherwise, this will be a mess! Also, I am certain Montoya will be thrilled to see his uninvited "friend" from the WTC... About the build. The bomb ketch is built by my brother, and its captain is supposed to be his sig fig if he ever gets around to signing up. (*nudge nudge* @Asgon) I only added the paper sails, and actually think it is a good first ship ketch! Tell him he is brilliant and he may feel all motivated to finally join up! The build may be licensed as a small commerce at some point. Let the negotiations begin!

To his honour, Marquis Alkurda, Forgive me this hastily scribbled note, as I have only just arrived in Nova Malto to find a multitude of enraged messages awaiting me. Any medical personnel will be granted free access to the city, and our own doctors (Sir Anton Hughes of some renown travelled with me) shall be looking forward to exchanging experience to the benefit of both our nations. The free access for humanitarian aid has never been denied. You will also allow me to correct a few misunderstandings in your letter. Initially, we never thought you would prosecute the formerly Mardierian populace, but the citizens of Malto themselves requested protection, unsure and concerned what the consequences of a power vacuum or an Eslandian occupation without any assurances or agreements would be. We act thus not out of malice to you, but out of concern for them. However, recent communications about your official stance towards Mayor Lorenzini has created some doubt in our minds whether any citizen of Nova Malto can truly be safe from political prosecution. Further, we lay no claim to the territory of Nova Malto. However, to ensure its neutrality without any commitment of forces, and without any fortifications, would surely be folly! Pirates and pillagers range abound in these seas, and many remainders of the defeated Mardierian troops are said to roam the lands as robbers. Additionally, it is clear that having guaranteed the neutrality of Nova Malto, we can allow no troops to enter the city, without a proper treaty first in place, regardless of their stated intentions or allegiance. Relative strength of the forces is irrelevant, as Corrington lives and dies by its word, and that of his Queen. Last, you talk of empowering the people. That is exactly what we are here to do. We are here to empower the people of Malto to rule themselves, rather than be ruled by a far away king (or Queen), or engulfed in the politics of some foreign republic where their voices will drown amongst the many. We are happy to hear that we share views upon the right of a people to rule themselves. In conclusion, I am concerned what general perspectives lies behind the Eslandian tendency to interpret Operation Pax Corlandia in the worst possible light. It would seem that Eslandola is far from as committed to our friendship as we had hoped. I shall soon commence negotiations with representatives of your great nation, and may be unavailable for further correspondence for a time. I do hope my letter has helped clear some of the misunderstandings between us prior to these negotiations. Your servant Don Isaac Montoya Consul

Nova Malto, June 617 ae. To Governor Willem Guilder, representative of the Colonial Council, I have recently arrived in Nova Malto to handle the situation in person. Your suggestion of Eslandola joining us in ensuring the safety and neutrality of Nova Malto and its citizens is most welcome, and I invite you to meet me at a place of your convenience for further negotiations. I would suggest to meet inside the city to best understand the matter at hand, but should you prefer neutral or Eslandian territory, I shall happily oblige under a flag of truce. Should you agree to meet in the settlement, you will be allowed an armed escort of up to three men to ensure your safety. We are also willing to offer a counter protégé to be placed in Eslandian care pending the duration of your stay, in order to ensure you of your safe return regardless of the outcome of the negotiations. Our general conditions for an agreement is an acceptance of the basic tenants of the proclamation for Operation Pax Corlandia, as the Crown of Corrington feels entirely committed to uphold its promises to the citizens of Nova Malto. Of course, we are willing to negotiate, as long as the final agreement does not violate the promises made. Obviously, arrangements for the defence of the settlement will be adjusted to the new situation, and a suitable mix of forces agreed upon. Further, Corrington requires acceptance that Captain Lorenzini is respected as representative of the Nova Malto citizens, and that any accusations of ill-conduct on his part are unconditionally retracted. He has been appointed by the citizens themselves, and has taken great risks and gone through great pains to ensure their safety. His loyalty to the people is unquestionable, and his ties to Mardier entirely broken as he left his employ in protest at the treatment of the people. Further, we ask that Oleon too is invited to take part in this operation of peace and prosperity. All participating nations will help finance the settlement and its defences, guarantee its status, and assign an agreed upon number of troops for its defence. I shall be looking forward to your reply. In the course of these negotiations, you may allow me to ask that we also adress a number of more general issues in person, relating to the general relations between our great nations. Issues to debate when we meet includes, but is not limited to: Our non-aggression pact: Some of the recent communications have sowed doubt as to our commitment to the non-aggression pact and our motives behind it. We wish to understand whether Eslandola considers the pact binding going forward. Accusations of aiding the enemies of Eslandola: Prominent Eslandian citizens have made allegations that Corlander citizens or even the Corlander Crown may be colluding with Mardier. This is both unsubstantiated, uncalled for, and entirely out of order. Expressions of mistrust: In the same vein, several general expressions of mistrust have been made by prominent citizens and officials of Eslandola, questioning the motives and commitment of Corrington to our friendly relations. Her Majesty asks to be enlightened as to what to make of these expressions and how they are to affect our relations going forward. These issues are of some concern to us, as they threaten to damage the amiable conditions by which we have long cooperated to the mutual benefit of our nations. I shall be looking forward to negotiations for ensuring the safety of Nova Malto and to discuss the general concerns of our relation. Your humble servant, Don Isaac Montoya Consul ______ Whew! It's getting late here, but I hope the above is an acceptable reply IC and OOC. :) I shall be looking forward to negotiating with Guilder, something we can hopefully do in a dedicated thread with at least a kickoff build, but hopefully more :) Goodnight for now! :)

I figured ;) However, IC, Montoya had to ask! :P (Also, I am working on the official reply as we speak. Unfortunately, I don't have time to present it with a build for now, but I like your idea of doing so whenever possible, and Montoya and Guilder should probably meet. Anyways, reply underway! ;))

Nice build, sir Stig. The throne is very clever, and I like the look of the natives too. Just a note, though. We have no such Major in our ranks. Most certainly, he is not in any capacity a representative of any branch of Corlander government, administration or armed forces... ;)

While Cooke certainly appreciates the trust this implies, he is already overloaded with administrative tasks, so perhaps he might be excused? ;)

OOC: Nice build, Maxim! I like your ruined houses - they are an improvement over the already nice ruins in your challenge build, and I think the beach is very nice too. As always, your troops are looking impressive! Also, nice that you take up our official repsonse without editing anything but the bare necessities and repsond IC! And what is even better is that you do not define our response, but give us time to respond ourselves. Below is the IC response. And while it may be a bit sharp (which I think you will agree mirrors your own fairly well) it is only a representation of the IC positions of Corrington, not an OOC reflection. OOC, I am totally enjoying this! _____________________________________ Nova Malto, June 617 AE To his Highness, Prince Damaximus, (As we are unaware how to properly address a prince of Garvey, you will forgive us any errors in that regard) Major William Bradley informs me that your Highness have made several inquiries to Operation Pax Corlandia. Allow me to address them. First, however, I wish to inquire whether we are to assume that official negotiations are to be conducted with an Eslandian Prince of Garvey, or with Representatives of the numerous republican councils of Eslandola. Forgive us our ignorance, but there are many titles involved, and we are approached by several who make the appearance of being official representatives. The commandant informs me that an "assessment" of the forces involved on both sides were made your Highness. While he perfectly agrees with the numbers presented, he requested that I clarify whether said "assesment" was in any way meant as a threat or even a request for our surrender. In the case of the latter, your Higness may find enclosed his official reply which I have read and wholeheartedly support. He also asked me to inform your Highness that he does not consider it presented in a gentlemanly manner. Should neither be the case, the letter may be disregarded. Further, he has adviced me to ask for the full names of your Highness' diplomatic advisors. As it happens, we are currently looking to hire more staff, and we want to make sure we do not risk hiring any of those who have kept your Highness so singularly ill-informed. Corrington has neither signed, nor agreed to, any alliance with the opressors of Mardier. Neither have any Corlander citizen, to the best of our knowledge, nor no Corlander official or soldier, taken any part in agressions against Eslandola. As we have stated time and time again, we are committed to friendly relations between our nations. Should your Highness be able to point me proof of anyone in violation of this, I shall be happy to take it up through our official channels. We are in Nova Malto on the request of the populace, represented by Captain Lorenzini (formerly of the Mardierian Army), who fears political prosecution from the invading forces of Garvey and Eslandola, repurcussions from Mardier, and the perils of plunder and chaos after the war with no stable government. Thus, our presence as a neutral party, known for upholding our promises and our principles of civil rights, was requested to protect the neutrality and safety of the settlement and its citizens. For the very same reason, we cannot allow foreign troops to enter the city without an official agreement for the status of Nova Malto and its citizens, as we would not be in a position to uphold our duty- and honour-bound promises in case this was but a ruse, regardless of promises of good behaviour and humanitarian aid.The populace is well cared for and provisioned sufficiently to outlast the duration of negotiations for such an agreement. As to His Royal Highness of the Azclaxcans, we are deeply touched by the plight suffered by his people at the hand of Mardier. Should any medical aid, supplies, or advisors be desirable, Corrington will be happy to oblige. Should any Corlander actions have caused reason for hate, we are more than willing to address these and compensate for any proven damages by Corlander citizens. Simply call for a diplomatic meeting, and we shall participate. Your humble servant, Don Isaac Montoya Consul ____________________________________________________________________ To his Highness, the Prince of Garvey, in response to a possible request for surrender.

Just a quick note regarding drama (IC responses will fall elsewhere/separately as promised). I have to agree with Captain Dee in that there is too much OOC drama generally. Sometimes the atmosphere gets really toxic, and it isn't enticing for anyone's constructive participation. And I am not pointing fingers, here. I have most likely acted out of temper a few times out here, and something like a Gazillion times in court (ask anyone...) One thing is when rule changes or court decisions are not to the liking of the players - that is OOC stuff causing OOC drama, which seems fair to me. (Although I always entice people to calm down and think things over a time or two.) What really bugs me, though, is when (reasonable) IC actions lead to OOC drama. That is not reasonable. It should lead to IC reactions and consequences, not angry comments, pm's, and namecalling. Sometimes, people act out of hand in a fit of temper, and I am not going to hold it against them. However, it should be in everyone's interest to make every effort to separate the two, and to always speak respectfully to their fellows. (Both goes both ways - make it clear whether you are speaking IC or OOC and separate your reactions; speak respectfully and always assume that people mean no offence with their responses) And I will add to that that almost everything can be forgiven if an honest apology is given when tempers have cooled. TL;DR: So please, let us all venture to stay calm, make great efforts to separate IC and OOC, respect each other and enjoy the roleplaying aspect of BoBS. Calm your OOC bleep, but get those IC bleep juggling!

OOC: Ayrlego had the idea, but he bears no more responsibility (if not less) than those who stand behind the action. And clearly, the main responsibility is mine as a leader. I interpreted the challenge prize differently (I. E. Not as an official claim) based on what I saw in court. My guess is we started different places in our interpretation of the prize, and as we got nearer, Garmadon made his understanding more explicit in his write-ups. (which is perfectly natural. I have also approved those write-ups) However, I still think we should play this out IC (hopefully Corrington can reply tonight). At least to me these are the things that makes bobs dynamic and interesting. I am of course sorry to hear Ayrlego withdraw his support (although with reservations) but hope we can continue this interesting IC development.