Game 279: Month 10

Success Despite Setbacks

Autumn is always bittersweet in Armorica. The trees are resplendent with color, but everyone is all to aware that the vibrant shades herald the coming of darker times. This month was no different. All of Armorica celebrated at the news that Germania was no longer under Teuton rule, however they mourned the loss of one of their own.

Our Celtic legions earned tremendous glory capturing four Teuton villages. Ross the Red distinguished himself in the field, and earned the title Warlord, our highest honour. The Celtic underworld redeemed themselves. Agent Mouse stole the Sickle of Admante from Teuton Marshal Sigmund, and though he was injured in the process he carried the wounds with pride. Unfortunately, our nobles did not fare so well. In an unexpected setback, despite a stir unrest by two Saxon counts, our rebellion of Vindon failed, and Prince Ambrosius was executed. The loss of Arthur's heir sent a shockwave throughout the kingdom.

The Teutons responded in force to our assault on Germania. Baron Gorgathal took control of Volksburg, as we expected. Two divisions moved to two of the villages we captured this month in central Germania – one placing Governor Orestes at risk.

Diplomatically, it was the final turn of our NAP with the Franks. Despite sending them a message several days earlier, I had not received any responses. The Vandal king warned me that the Franks had withdrawn from Viennensis, where they were earlier invading – apparently it was a matter of honour. That left the Franks free to march north to my under-defended region, a very precarious position. At the last minute, the Frankish liege agreed to extend our NAP for an additional five turns – enough time to finish fortifying the region. Disaster averted.

Turn 10 Planning

We have to continue putting pressure on the Teutons. With another five turns of peace secured with the Franks, we can concentrate on Germania.

Political Plans

• Arthur will increase influence

• Duke Mac Cekt and Count Connacht will relocate to Koln once again – after the Saxons took the Teuton capital, it moved to another fortress town, and the city can still be affected politically. The Saxons are also planning to move several nobles to the city – we should be able to rebel it given enough noble power. Agent Zed accompanies them as a bodyguard.

• An ambassador in Armorica will talk to the people to learn how the feel about the Franks. If they are well loved, it could be something to worry about.

• Hire a new governor in our village in Belgica – if more political power is needed in the city, we'll get it there.

Military Plans

• Minatour will storm Volksburg and hopefully capture the Teuton baron that took the village from us. They will march one league north to a Saxon village in Belgica. The Teuton king Odavacer is personally leading a division of troops here.

• Unicorn moves to Vulania to reclaim it after the Teutons rampage

• Titan moves deep into central Belgica, leaving Amorica at risk, but placing them within striking distance of Germania. I'm putting my faith into our last minute NAP with the Franks – if he was honour bound to call off his assault on the Vandals when he had the advantage, then I believe he can be trusted.

Covert Plans

• Agent O'rork Ledbelly guards Duke Mac Cekt before his relocation occurs – the Duke is now a target after his failed attempt to incite a rebellion

• Dirk will recon Koln – lets see who is present in the city

• Hire two new agents, one in Cristenhalm, on the border between Germania and Scandia, and one in Duroco – just to keep an eye on the Franks

Additional Plans

• Priestess Rhiannon will heal Minatour. After all these assaults, the men are in need of healing.

• Construct a fortress in Duroco – this is the last town in the region that requires fortification