Hey italy! good luck this game. I'm guessing you and Austria will be pals, you and France will be rivals? Well good luck to you too! No idea yet who is a friend. Have you heard anything interesting? I have some agreements with France. If those are upheld, I'd bet France goes for Por and Spain in 1901. You might want to ask about whether a fleet gets built in Mar during the 1901 build, if you haven't already, as this would be an indicator of aggression towards you. Germany seems like a bit of a wild card. Haven't talked in depth with Austria. Do you have any sort of aggression in your opening, or are you just planning to be neutral and secure Tun? You know, I really haven’t decided. I’m trying to get clear answers from my neighbors, and they are all pretty slow to answer. So I really haven’t decided. Is there something you want me to do? Well definitely make sure you get your fleet to Tun by the fall. I'd like to see you do well, as Italy is kind of the underdog on the map. Have you agreed to France about Piedmont at all? No, we have not yet talked about Piedmont. Well, if you're looking to make France a little nervous, that would be your move. Ven - Pie, Rom - Ven, Nap to TYS. Then you secure Tun with your fleet in the fall. For the unit in Pie, you can decide to bait France into a bounce in Mar, but then just hold instead. France would move from Spain to Mar and miss securing the fifth supply center. This is certainly aggressive, but it also keeps you and France on a more level playing field. Well, I’d be inclined to do that if I knew you were moving to the Channel and Wales. If you want for both of us to go all in at the same time, then let’s go. Yeah, that makes sense. Unfortunately we've declared a DMZ in the channel through 1902, so I can't commit to the stab right now. I still don't think it's an awful play for you. If France gets a fleet in Mar and has one parked in Spain s.c. at the start of 1902, that's going to be a little threatening for you. (1) If you’ve declared a DMZ, then you ARE in position to do this if you want to do it. (2) I’m not going to attack France on my own. Yeah, everything you're saying makes sense. When I make specific agreements like the DMZ, I generally try to hold them, especially early game. Honestly, I'd rather the three of us pick apart germany to start. Maybe we could convince France to help you into Munich in the Fall? Hi England — just sort of checking in to hear how things are going. How does the board look to you right now? Great time to check in. France and Germany are in conflict, and don't seem poised to collaborate on invading me, which I'm happy about. Russia's looking a little troubled with losing Sev. You look poised to lepanto to turkey, and it looks like you'll pull it off without the Austrian convoy, unless that new fleet is headed west. Also, I feel like you and/or Austria may have your eyes on Munich. Any thoughts here? Just about the state of the board? Or did you send a message after mine that didn’t come through? Ah, I sent a really long message about Germany. You didn’t get it? Nah. Maybe it was a bot-killer message Probably best to split it up Rats. Here is an image of the message I sent. I’ve been on pins and needles for two days awaiting a response!!! Haha sorry about that. No image received. The bot may not send them through Ahhhhhhh! Now I have to retype it👎👎👎 I have kind of an odd favor to ask. And I happen to know it’s in your best interest, but it will require a big picture, long-term sort of view of the game. 

This is Germany’s very first game of Diplomacy. And he’s clearly in over his head. You’re positioned to smash him. There’s no doubt about that. But the real winner if you do that is France. (End part 1) France has FOUR armies, and now he has a wide open runway to roll right over Germany. If you help him, you’re going to regret it. Look two game years ahead, France is going to be in a crazy good position. 

On the other hand, if you change course now and go get France instead, France is NEVER going to be able to build a second fleet. He will be so much easier to destroy. And Germany is so green...he’ll be much easier to take down second. 

I just...I can see where this is headed. I know it’s attractive just to take that easy build. But that is the apple of knowledge and France is the devilish serpent (end part 2) I really REALLY believe that it’s better for you and me for you to switch course and take out France now. I’d be happy to help and give you most of the spoils. And I think this would be a great springboard for a dominant England/Italian alliance that can win this game. If only I could get this message to go through....
(End) All of this is fair. I’m aware that germany’s a first-timer, and I ran through similar reasoning to yours when trying to choose who to side with. If I had known where you stood in this, it might have swayed my opinion. I was worried about you and austria making a play for Munich and then Russia applying more pressure in the north. One additional piece of my reasoning is that France is a stronger player than me and others probably know this. After Germany is gone, France is the bigger threat. If Germany and I had taken France together, I would have ended up the bigger threat (i.e. the next target). I’m going to get Russia in on the German takedown. You really think the three of us can’t handle france together once germany is gone? Can you tell germany to self-bounce in ruhr? Unless i’m missing something, that line holds until i support into holland (which I haven’t been asked to do yet). The French upside to taking on germany can be contained. If you get Munich out of this, do you still think it’s a bad plan? I vehemently do not want Munich. Also i’m wayy wrong it’s a fleet in holland haha I do think it is a much better plan for both of us to side with Germany against France. I just think that France could pull in Austria or Turkey against me and he could pull in Russia against you. 

Germany won’t do that sort of counter. The more I look at this board, the more I want to focus on an E/I Alliance. And I think the only thing standing in our way is France. I don’t see Germany as any kind of obstacle at all. Especially given that France is locked into armies right now, not fleets, I think we would be wasting a real opportunity if we let France grow a bit more. I’m sorry I did not come to you with this earlier. That’s just my bad. I’ve been kind of lazy, and I wasn’t really sure I wanted to weigh in about the west at all. But, I’ve changed my mind?

I think E/I can dominate here. But we’ve got to keep France from ever building a second fleet. I think that’s the way that both you and me get really big. I see your points, but a couple of things: 1) France has another build guaranteed this year, and that will likely be a fleet, 2) We may be able to keep France away from all of the German supply centers Kie and Mun bounce in Ruh, Hol cuts support from Bel. This holds Ruh unless France chooses to send Bel in and let Germany into Holland. This holds the line unless I give support. What if Austria gets Munich? I stabbed Germany, and so I’m hesitant to try collaboration now. Ok, ok. I’m open to going against france. I messaged germany. We’ll see how she responds. I’m taking denmark this year regardless. The stab on france would involve me taking the channel unexpectedly next spring and helping germany into belgium maybe These are all good responses. And I get that you don’t want to turn around and stab France now. 

I do think that I can help you diplomatically with Germany. I think that, if you really want to work with me and Germany, I can get G on board. Alright, well we can chat next year after builds then. I’m certainly open to it. I told germany to not bother saving denmark (it’s guaranteed for me with Russian support) amd instead do the self bounce in Ruh with Kei and Mun to keep France out, cutting support in Bel with Hol. I think that move is important this fall to keep France out. France just tried to tell me the Brest build was anti-Italian haha Funny enough, he tells me it’s anti-English. Haha. So are we still both anti-French? I’d like to get germany on board with helping me take the channel (or at least not stopping me). I’m sure germany would be excited to hit me back though :/. I’ll play dumb with France for now Okay, I’ll try to get Germany on board. Germany seems on board. Maybe i’m setting myself up to get stabbed. Hope i’m backing the right horse on this one. I’ll shoot for the channel in the spring and then we get germany into belgium. Are you planning to move west? Was hoping to see something a little more anti-french in your moves. My homeland is toast if you don’t put any pressure on France in the south. Hi England — I’m sorry for the delay! I can move to attack France in the Spring if you like. For now, I think that mobilizing Germany to attack France is your best bet (and shouldn’t be too hard). You know what? This isn’t really fair of me. If you will commit to the France attack, I’ll move on him now. Are you ready to go all out against him? This could actually work out really well for both of us. I’m ready, but i may want your advice on some of the tactics. My plan is to completely cold shoulder France in negotiations and start an attack. We’ll want to get germany on board, but I think Germany is playing a bit neutral for survival purposes right now. I agree with regard to Germany’s strategy, but I believe he hates France most and he will be with you if both you and I move on France now. 

France is getting no builds. Let’s just put the clamps on now! I will move to TYS and Tun if you will move either to take Belgium, or to position your fleets at Irish/Channel. 

If we both take the plunge, there is nothing he can do. France can support himself into England though, and I think he plans to because he was asking for Germany to cut support in Nth (which she plans not to). The only way to hold the channel is to support from Nth. into England => into English channel I'm planning army yorkshire to wales, which allows for the convoy through the channel next year, and allows me to bounce in Lvp if France moves to IRI Okay, I buy that. If you commit to moving the army to Wales and you don’t attack Germany,  I’ll move on France. I'm committed. Are you planning to cut support in Munich for a Russian invasion of Berlin? No way. I am supporting Munich. We don’t want Russia or France rolling over Germany. Germany will give us her centers in time. Let’s keep them German until that time comes. Can you use Den to cut support in Baltic if I make sure Germany does not retake Den? Germany has to do something else with Munich? To protect Ruhr I guess? go team! Cool. Let’s do this. Are you LYO and WES this Spring with the fleets? And will Venice go to Pie? Also, what is your communication with France like? I'm in favor of all three of us going totally dark on France until the job is done. And at some point we should talk about a fair split of the French supply centers just so there's no surprises. Yes, those are my moves. And I don’t have any dialogue with France right now. I suppose that’s lazy. You want me to stay quiet or try to feel him out? There is no way he will believe anything I say after my last move. I kind of want to starve him of info. I’m currently giving him radio silence. Germany is getting some inside info, pretending to be friendly, etc. but that will end shortly (assuming I don’t see a surprise german stab of cutting the nth channel support, but i think it’s unlikely). France apparently plans to move out of Ruh, probably to defend the south. France will lose 1 supply center certainly, maybe 2 this year What are your thoughts on a divvy up of you in Mar and Spa, me in Bre and Por, and germany in Bel and Par? Just thinking long term about who gets what. Thanks for that info about France. 

Also, Germany has confirmed to me that they trust you. I think you’re right that there will be no German stab coming this turn. As far as that divide, that generally sounds fair. Though, I find that those kinds of agreed splits rarely come to pass exactly as proposed. I may have to turn around and go east if Austria stabs me, etc. So I’d prefer to kind of focus on general principles: (1) I’d like for the dominant alliance on the board to be E/I. So while I agree we want Germany to help us crack this but, longer term I think we should plan to divide Germany’s share too. The safest divide in that case might leave me with all of Iberia, while you get most of Germany (I.e., you’re going to need armies). (2) We should focus on parity. In other words, if I’m way ahead on centers when France folds, you get more of France. If it’s the opposite, I get more. We just keep checking in and try to balance both centers and growth opportunities, and let that guide us. All of that makes sense. We’ll reevaluate as we go. I’d like the promise of Belgium and Paris to Germany to be a consistent one that comes from both of us, for the purpose of maintaining German confidence in our alliance. In case germany asks you. Looks like you’ve got a bit of a guessing game on your hands. Yep. Was hoping for a guarantee. 🤨 Germany and I were thinking to go with Spain. France is annoyed enough with me that he honestly may go for the channel. I’ll be risking the channel by supporting ruh to bel with nth. So you can support to spain and then let france into mar from bur instead of bouncing. Germany will try to sneak into bur from Mun, then you two could bounce in Mun to keep russia out. A little complicated, but germany in bur next year would be great for us. Even if things don’t go our way this fall, france will go eventually. Though the longer france has to stay alive, the longer he’ll have to sweet-talk germany into turning on us Trieste? What's up with that? I guess it shows commitment to an English-Italian alliance, but I'm a little surprised to see a stab like that this soon. Not a stab. Austria offered it to me for the sake of parity. Hmmm, maybe I was supposed to keep that a secret? I think you need to give Austria some “thumbs down” Can you please not go to Austria and tell him that I said the move to Trieste was arranged? He’s obviously trying to manipulate you in some way. Can we just compare notes and try to figure out what he’s up to without revealing that you and I talk much? I'm not going to right now, but I also am a little curious why it would matter to you if I told Austria that. Are you telling Austria things like "I really want the Austria-Italy alliance to be the dominant one on the board"? What is your long-term plan with Austria? No — I just want to know what he’s up to. It’s not a big deal to me, but I didn’t know he was going to try to pass that off as him getting stabbed, so I’m curious what he’ll tell you next. If you blow him up for lying to you, we won’t get that info, and he’ll know that you and I talk a lot. In terms of what I am telling Austria, I am definitely close with him, and I want him to feel like I’m not going to stab him, but we’re almost to the mid game, and cross board alliances work a lot better than neighbor alliances once we get to the mid-game, so I think you can be confident that you’re the long-term ally I want. That said, I’m definitely saying nice things to Austria too. I won’t deny that. Not the same nice things, but I can’t have Austria thinking I will attack him. That doesn’t help me and I don’t think it helps you. All of that makes sense. I won't call out Austria. How do you plan to continue your attack on France this year? I don’t know. Is there something you’d like me to do? I’m rather flexible. I’d just really like to bust through for a build this year. Thoughts? Would you like to support me to MAO? Won't France just cut in Bre? I'd actually like MAO next year. I'd like to hear something about your plans before midnight What do you need to know? I won’t move to MAO, I’ll try for Spain or Marseilles. Do you want to know more than that? Have you been talking to France at all? Nope. Not a word this phase. Huh. I guess France is lying to me then? Yes. I haven’t said a word to him. What’s he saying? France is a snake. Umm that you're the highest ranked online player in the world. And that you consistently encouraged him to attack me. Well that’s fun. Um, where to begin? 

I think I’m a good online player. I’ve been playing online for about two years. I have a site ranking on one website in the Top 100, and I have a site ranking on another website in the top 250. So, maybe if you combine those rankings and squint, I’d be in the top 200 or so? Also, I don’t know who France is. So, he either has me confused with someone, or else he’s just trying to scare you. Let’s see...why would he be trying to scare you? And, I have definitely encouraged him to attack you, as I recall, but it’s been several game years since then. I feel like you’ve probably encouraged France to attack me before (a fairly natural thing for England to do). Bottom line: France has every reason in the world to try to get us to distrust each other, and he’s obviously willing to say whatever to make that happen. I think I’ve been really honest with you, and I think we’ve been helpful to each other, and I think we are both going to succeed in this game if we can stick together and not give in to his tricks. Cause snakes are gunna snake. 🐍 🐍 🐍 🐍 🐍 All of this pretty much lines up with what I expected, though it’s nice to hear from you. He says that you’re “[redacted]” on playdiplomacy.com . So I guess the user name lining up is just a coincidence. Not that I really care that much btw, but it would be interesting if you were secretly a star player. I’ve never played on playdiplomacy. I play mostly on an app called Conspiracy. 

But don’t get me wrong! I’m experienced, and I’ve had some success. I’m not to be trifled with! Also, you should be able to see from my moves, and Austria’s, that I’ve been telling you the truth. Yeah, that's fair. France is funny. I've gotten maybe 15 messages from France since I ghosted him. Is it rock, paper, or scissors against him this season? From France: "I can stop Italy this turn by the way. It's pretty easy since Italy let me into Marseilles, I can support the hold in Marseilles and Marseilles can support MAO to Spain SC. It's impossible to breach, I've checked it, and I can keep making those orders for years and years. You stabbed me in Spring 03. It is Fall 05. I think that you, Italy, and Germany are highly underestimating my ability to survive against your onslaught. You sure this is the game you want? Slowly whittling away at me until I die? Instead, I propose that we let you into the Mid Atlantic Ocean and that you help me defend Italy. I can send you past the MAO into West Med, where you can start taking dots like Tunis or Naples. We wait until AI crumbles, and you have an excellent game where you top the board." So I have my interpretation of the message, but I'm curious to hear yours Hmmm, thanks for sending that. I mean, obviously the orders he proposes can be defeated by tapping Marseilles and supporting into Spain. He knows we know that. He’s just playing games and trying to throw us off. Yeah. Maybe it's not even worth thinking about. It's like the Sicilian in princess bride Exactly I’m just going to flip a coin. So I guess you won't go for MAO then? Correct. (also, there's a couple other points I'd like to cover while I have you here) Ok that sounds good. I'm eyeing that for next spring. Sure. Well, I'm surprised you haven't been opinionated at all about my actions in Russia. Hmmm, well, I do have opinions. I just don’t want to be overbearing. What are you thinking over there? The builds are tempting, but I don't want to be the one that hands austria the game What are your opinions? I'm going to bed. But other things I want to talk about are 1) the anti-English moves from Germany, 2) what you're doing with the Tyr unit. Responding now. You are thinking about the right considerations re Russia/Austria. Every build is enticing, but you have to consider the cost. Right now, Russia is basically using all of his units to help you. So, I think you might be better off foregoing that build and keeping Russia on your side for now. But...I certainly have no horse in that fight. If you want to attack Russia, no need to hold back on my account. I do want you to grow so that you and I are the same size. And those Russian centers will be key to that. But they also aren’t going anywhere. I don’t think there is any rush, personally. The Russian units are doing things you want them to do right now. Re Germany, I hadn’t really noticed the anti-English moves. She keeps telling me that y’all are very close. I feel pretty confident that she’s with you, and that she really wants to see France out of the game. Re Tyrolia, what would you like me to do? I do have a plan with that unit. And if you wanted to deal a blow to Austria, I can think of at least one devious plan to make his turn go poorly. All that makes sense and I believe it. I feel like your "horse" in the russian front is Austria's future strength, which could pose a threat to you. Your advice to me is consistent with that. Yeah, that’s true. I just don’t want to be too nosy or high maintenance, really. I could see you feeling like you need to get some builds promptly, and so you pick off a Russian unit or two. Even though that may make my situation tougher, I feel like your cooperation against France and later Germany means too much to me for me to try to dictate what you do with Russia. I hope that makes sense. But my advice about what you should do really is my opinion about the best way to approach it from your perspective. I don’t think you need to be in a hurry there. I think that just about every place on the board is moving in a positive direction for you right now, and so, if I were you, I would not want to shake that up. But if you do want to do that, it’s very much okay with me. Yeah I'm not going for Russia right now. Supposing he can hold the stalemate, he's literally just saving those territories for me to take at a later date. I will get a little annoyed if the admin cuts us off at 1910 though, as I think my endgame is a little past that. The anti-english moves aren't strictly anti-english. But a fleet build in Berlin and then moving to Kie is a little aggressive.  Germany hoped I would just give up denmark this fall, and that was her explanation of the kie move. Eventually that Kie fleet will be going against me. A stab right now from germany doesn't seem to make much sense though. It would have to be coordinated with france to even have a chance, and with the pressure you're putting in the south I don't know how France could afford that. Unless he's really pissed at me and goes for a kamikaze just to annoy me. And what devious thing could you do with Tyr that wouldn't immediately begin aggressions with austria? Ok now I'm really going to bed. But I can think of a Tyr move that would really stir up some trouble. I wonder if we're thinking of the same one. Any chance you are around this morning? What’s up? I don’t want to tell Russia a way to deal Austria a blow because Russia will turn around and tell Austria. But I trust you, so I think I could pass on some info to you and you might not use it against me. Gotcha. What are the moves you’re thinking? You might say something like this to Russia:

I was chatting with Italy about Tyrolia, and he told me that he promised to use Tyrolia to help Austria. My best guess is that Tyrolia and Galicia will bounce in Vienna. If you just use Bohemia to support Tyrolia in, then Austria doesn’t get a build and you likely break up Italy and Austria. Too devious? 🤭🤫 I'd considered this move as something that russia could do to free up Gal, but I think I thought Ser was a home center or something, so I didn't realize the build consequence. I'd bet russia is already planning to do this, but I can make the suggestion I did have a different move for Tyr in mind. Oh yeah? This is not a good idea, i should clarify. But it would be very dramatic if you successfully supported Boh to Mun (also I have a feeling russia won't be online before noon unfortunately) well, russia had the right idea, but didn't choose the right one to support. Bounce in Ank planned? And congrats on Mar Yes, both bounces planned. Russia made a nice gamble taking Bulgaria. Even with Austria in BLA now? I'll be a little annoyed if I see a build in St. P Yeah, for sure. Austria loses that build and keeps Vienna vacant. Russia GETS a build. Yeah, I think that worked well for Russia. We should start talking about the France endgame and what things look like post-war. Maybe after we see the French choice for a disband. I think France hates me the most (despite me having taken none of his territories) and as a result will probably hold onto Brest until the end, or maybe even go for LVP or something. Sure — I’m happy to talk it through. That move by France to bounce NAO was annoying. Yeah, I kinda saw that coming. So things are kinda escalating with germany. She’s making lots of asks that I don’t think are reasonable. Like “why not just give me denmark” and “why not just leave Nth open”. She’s also admitted to being friendly with France. Yeah, I’m hearing rumblings of the same thing from Germany. Just sort of feeling me out on whether I’d be okay with her working with France. Not good. How would you like to address it with moves this turn? Do you want me to support you to MAO? Or should I move there? How has she suggested to you that she’ll be helping France? Because if she’s telling you that, it must mean working with france against me, maybe with something specific in mind. She also wants me to give up Brest haha. Maybe i’ll ask if she wants London I don’t know anything specific. She’s just asking for my thoughts. I have not responded. Though, I’m not surprised. France is not going to quit. He hasn’t been talking to me anymore and he hasn’t been trying to turn you. That means he’s been working on Germany. I think we just have to keep telling her that France is a Dark Wizard who does not have her best interest in mind. Yeah, I mean good on France for being persistent. I'm sure France is telling her that we're allies. And that would actually be the truth. And just geographically it would be hard for me and germany to be allies longer-term, so it's somewhat understandable that Germany could be swayed by that logic. What are your thoughts on the timing of war with Germany (if you're keen on a war in the near future at all)? I have an idea of how to handle the situation that's slightly dependent on that Well, I don’t really want to attack Germany this year. In a perfect world, you and I each get a build this year, and we are in position to attack Germany next year. Germany seems to like my advice, so I may be able to get her to take Paris this year and refrain from attacking you. If we can cripple France in the next two turns, without Germany attacking, then next year’s attack on Germany would be easy. That is my general thinking in it. I mean I don't see how I get a build this year outside of moving in on Russia, but I'd rather stay out for now. Honestly the worst that Germany can do this year is knock me out of the channel. So I don't want support into MAO this turn. I might reach out to France with a proposition for survival that I won't follow through with. But maybe I can make it convincing enough that he gives it a shot. Otherwise I'm rather nervous that France gives Germany a big hand with attacking my island in his final years Also, will an attack on Germany really be easy next year? Also, did you tell germany i was plotting against her? She says you did. Whoa — no, I want you and Germany to work together. I would not and have not said you are plotting against her. She floated the “work with France thing,” and I suggested that she should really take Paris now while she can. If we can get Germany to take Paris, next year will be much easier. I think we should both direct her there. You really said nothing to that effect? What would prompt france to say that to me? It’s ok if you did say something, but i want you to be honest about it. Some exciting moves. Will be curious to see where you stand. Hey — sorry I’ve been offline since the bot went down. That looks like a pretty aggressive move from Germany. I wonder if France has pocketed her. I do like the move to Paris, but the rest is not good. Yeahh. It’s a shame. I mean i’m aware at this point that the two of you could choose to mow over me. I hope the expanse in northern russia makes you wary of helping germany though. Time for survival mode. Will appreciate some advice on tactics if you’re on my side of this. Yeah, I’m on your side. I’ll help on tactics, but I think the real key here is getting Germany to flip back. I don’t see why that move has to be permanent. I think you should tell her something like this: “Look, I see that you are attacking you, but I think it’s my fault not yours. I should have given you back Denmark. I see that now. And I’m sorry. I will move out peaceably, and I hope we can work out a new working relationship.” Just say you’re sorry. She can take it back anyway, might as well offer it back right? (And I’m not saying you have anything to be sorry for, I’m just trying to brainstorm about what will help you turn her back to your side.) I already responded non-angrily, though not specifically what you said. I think a return of denmark could go a long way. Though that border will make things tense, and i don’t think peace with her could last forever One thing I'm curious about: Why would you want Germany and I to be friends? Aren't you better off with both of us fighting? And I can keep Denmark this fall if I give up the channel (which may fall anyways) Well, I want to be rid of France. I’ve really been depending on the two of you to help in that project. If England decides to move out of Paris for France, that’s bad for me. 

Also, I don’t want to see Germany get two builds this turn. But you’re right, if it’s inevitable anyway, it’s not the end of the world. 

#teamengland I sure hope you’ve not been clicking that thumbs down haha. It would be a brutal stab. I suppose i’ve got to place my trust somewhere though. Why choose me instead of germany? You know, if you're able to lend a hand from MAO, I'm actually not in THAT bad of shape. Can I depend on that? 1) You’ve been straight with me all game. 2) You have a much better ability to read the board than she does. 3) You’re on the other side, so you can’t really stab me, but I could totally see her moving to Tyrolia some time soon. 4) You’re not in France’s pocket. All good reasons. Also, I think Germany is gonna ghost me, soooo, friends? I need MAO to attack Bre. Can you do that? I will ensure that Brest can’t hurt you. Not sure yet if I’ll cut that support or get France to do something weird with it, but you can consider that unit non functional this turn. I’ll also see what intel I can gain. Cool. You really think you can get france to take your advice on Brest? And do you have opinions about russia walking into Mun? Re Brest: if I’m not confident, I’ll just cut that support. I know that one is important to you, and I’ll make sure it’s taken care of. Re Munich: that one never really crossed my mind. But if you can get Russia to do that, it would be awesome. I don’t want to see Germany get builds here. Cool. Any advice on the rest of tactics for my defense? I have my own ideas, but would be curious to hear your opinion I’d probably just use the army to protect Liverpool. I’d send NAO to Norwegian if the battle is going to be against Germany. And I’d flip a coin between supporting Channel to Belgium or supporting Denmark holding. And I wouldn’t tell anyone the result of that coin flip. There is just no reason to share that info. Huh. That's way different than what I had in mind. Well, you’re closer to it than I am. I’m sure you’ve taken a much harder look. What am I missing? You're not missing anything, but I had a more defensive strategy in mind I guess. I've got some time to think it over. Please do let me know what intel you receive Hi, I have a different ask of the MAO unit actually, if you're around this morning. Hey — what’s up? I want to see whether supporting channel to Bre is an option for MAO you'd consider. And I'd also want to know if Gas support will be cut. Well, have to just be honest here — I’ve been working on a larger plan considering your earlier request that I neutralize Brest, and I’m not sure that change works in the larger scheme. More broadly, is there any chance you’d like to form a trio and work with me and Russia long term? Why wouldn't you let me in on your larger plan? And does your larger plan include neutralizing Brest, or did it just consider that I asked that? Can you confirm you're neutralizing Brest by attacking it from MAO? Yes, hitting Brest. 

I prefer not to share my moves if they don’t matter to someone else. There is just less chance that something goes wrong, and less chance I end up blaming someone else if something goes wrong. What do you think about E/I/R as a trio? I think you need to justify to me why supporting into Brest isn't an option. I don't see how this could be relevant to some larger plan. Unless the plan is "don't give England that build, don't show others that I'm supporting England" Wow. Well, you asked me to do something else earlier, and I have spent days trying to fit your earlier request into my move set. But, you know what, it’s more important to me to have you as an ally. So I’ll support you to Brest. I obviously would like that. But to be honest I care less about the support and more about the secret. So, confirmed, MAO supporting Channel to Brest. Test. It’s not a secret. It’s just that I like to keep my moves secret unless they matter to someone. Can you confirm whether support from Gas is cut as well? I am not currently cutting support in Gascony. Ok. And I'm down to chat about russian relations after the move. Sorry for the last-minute change here. But germany's been putting pressure on me Have to say — I expect Germany to use Paris to support Brest. Those two seem to be in lockstep now. Are you sure that I should just take Portugal to drop England down to 1 unit? I mean drop France down to 1 unit. France is just going to bounce you out, right? What else does it make sense for the Spa unit to do? He thinks I am supporting an attack on Spain and moving to Burgundy, so I think his moves look like this:

Spain hold
Gas S Spa holding
Paris S Brest
Brest S MAO - Channel (he asked me to take it)
Irish - Liv Hmm, yeah I would have thought he would assume the Gas support would be cut. Does France really hate you the least? Yeah, I think France trusts that I’m actually going to Channel and Burgundy here. I will admit I've communicated with Germany about your plan to use MAO to help me. That may have made its way back to France I feel like you, Germany, and France: if I tell anyone anything, it circulates to all three. Yeahh. I maybe should keep my mouth shut more often. Germany says that the Brest thing relates to Denmark. 

Anyway, what should we do? It does. I'm giving up denmark for support to Brest. Okay, I’ll support you to Brest. Sounds great Thanks Glad to see that go through. Told you about the move to Por btw You were right. Thank you. Well I'm glad to see the takedown work out. I suppose France has one more unit, but Por will fall next year. And now things get even more interesting. Signing off for now. Hmmm, interesting French disband. He wants me to support him to Brest. Have to believe he’s going to have Germany on his side given the German fleet build. 

Thoughts on how to approach this? We should be able to defeat them if we stick together. I think we should focus on getting your army to Pic this turn, and I can support you to Paris in the Fall. DO NOT DISCUSS PLANS WITH GERMANY THIS TURN. Seems very clear that she’s coming for you based on the build and the French disband. I don’t think we help ourselves by speaking with her. Let’s just get you into Paris, secure North Sea, and get moving. I don’t need any builds in the North. If I get bigger, I’ll have a target on my back. So I’m just going to help you get up to my level. Also, I need to decide to work with Russia or Austria in the East. What’s your preference? I'll be in communication with Germany, but I'll agree to not share any specific plans discussed between the two of us this turn. Is that fair? Yes of course. I don’t mean that you shouldn’t talk to her at all. At first glance, I prefer an alliance with Russia, though I understand this means you breaking a relationship with Austria. Mostly this is because Russia can threaten me if he ever goes north. What's your preference? Well, that’s fine with me. I like Russia. But here is the downside for you: if Russia grows, the north won’t be undefended any more, and you will have less room to grow. So, think long term, and think about where your dots are going to come from. I mean it sincerely when I say that I’ll join up with either one provided you feel good about it, but I actually think it might be better for you if I give back Austria a couple of centers and position you to grab Swe and STP once Germany is on her heels. Those are good points. I suppose you'd like to commit to this before moves this evening? *commit one way or the other Yeah, I think we should make a plan. I’d like to have your final thoughts on A/R as quickly as possible so that I have time to execute a plan. But I understand if you want time to think about it. How is Germany treating you right now? Did she tell you about that fleet build before it happened? Seems like a bad sign, and North Sea is awfully exposed. Oh she told me that she plans to line the whole northwest coast with fleets because "they're more versatile there". But all they can do from the northwest coast is invade me. She also said she wants Brest eventually. Not sure if I can keep Nth this year. We'll see if I can keep it friendly. That involves lots of talk about moving against you. She wants to see me in MAO. Yeah, look, I don’t mind if you tell her that you’re moving against me. I am telling her that I’m moving against you. 

Let’s please make the following deal: You and I both plot with Germany as if we’re attacking each other. And we both share the plan with Germany against the other guy with each other, and we pledge to tell Germany (and France if he asks) that you and I are not talking much, we don’t trust each other, and we don’t have any plan in place. This turn will work best if we share all info that we learn from G/F, and we pledge to keep our own talks secret. I think that we can pull off a great turn, but it won’t work if G/F get catch wind of our alliance. All that makes sense. I'm on board. You know, if Germany just stopped surprising me with aggressive moves, she may have won my favor. [sigh] And I think Austria is the ally we choose. If we hold off Germany, she can only expand into Russia, which would be her only friend. And the trusting relationship you have makes it more likely that things will go through. 👌 So, here is the plan that Germany is telling me:

She wants to ensure she gets North Sea. So she is asking for this:

Den S Bel - North
Bel - North
Hol - Bel
Pic - Channel
Spa - Gas
Par S Sap - Gas
MAO - Irish She wanted me to support her direct from Paris to Brest, but I convinced her that you would likely fear a forced disband, so you were likely to try to keep me out of Gascony (thus Par S Spa - Gas). I don’t think we can save North Sea this turn, but if we can land your army in Pic, we can force France to retreat to Belgium, which would be absolutely awesome. And I think his survival instinct would kick in at that point, and he would stay there until you take it. I may be able to save Nth with some diplomacy. Is it worth me trying to make Germany a hard case to be on my side? Does that just make her moves less predictable? So I would suggest this:
Bre S Wal - Pic
Wal - Pic
Channel Convoy Wal - Pic

That means Germany will lose Paris and Belgium this year. And I think you can defend your territory even with G in North Sea. I really think that we are best off not suggesting that you and I are talking. If Germany gets any idea that I shared her plans with you, we’ll have no idea what they are going to do. Uhh, Germany will just hop into one of my home centers from Nth in the fall... I trust you at this point, but I don’t think that confronting her is the best move here. No, you can defend. Oh move  to Cly? Oh wait Nth just  retreats. whoops You can move NAO to Norwegian in Spring, and retreat North to Norway. Then in Fall you cover London with Channel while I support you to Paris. Right. So you have coverage for every center, and you get the build, while G loses two. Thoughts on a retreat to Hel? That’s the best I can come up with if G is being honest with me. I would not be opposed to a retreat to Hel, but  it depends a lot on what the board looks like. I’m not crazy about Germany taking Norway. We want her taking units off the board. Well I'll at least communicate with Germany to the point that she thinks I'm genuinely against you. But I won't ask for any favors. If I do I'll let you know, and we should expect that you hear about them. Agreed. Yes, I’m totally fine with that. We want G thinking that we’re working against each other. And, frankly, she’s going to be pissed at me after this move, so I wouldn’t mind if you lied to her too at the same time to spread that out a bit. So plot away against me, but tell me what plan you guys work out, so we can talk about what she’s most likely to do. France wants me to go for MAO. I'm going to say I'm on board with that. I'll say NAO is going there. I mean germany Yep. That makes sense. She wants Edi and Norway clear. Also, does it matter so much if Germany is mad at both of us? Isn't it basically war in the Fall? If I were you, I’d order NAO to Norwegian. From Norwegian, you have a play to defend Norway AND Edi. Which means you could retreat to Helg if you like and you have a 50/50 to defend Norway or Edi. Yeah that's what I'll order Re G being mad: it’s not the end of the world. I mean, we’ll definitely be at war with her. I just don’t want her trying to throw the game in spite or anything like that. Cause I am lying to her like crazy this turn. 🤭🤫 yeahh... it happens. i've been fortunate to not really have to lie so far. What are your thoughts on Mun? Also, just out of curiosity, did you advise Germany to build the Kiel fleet? I absolutely did not advise G to build the F Kie. We did not talk at all about that build. Thoughts on Mun? What do you mean? If G would have asked, I would have said that two armies would make me a bit uncomfortable, but I would not have insisted on a fleet, as two armies would have been more anti-Russian than anything. But she did not ask me. I believe you. I just was curious. And I didn't look closely enough at Mun. Ber can just support. But I thought it might be interesting to work with Russia there, even if Russia isn't the long-term ally. Also, who does germany think the third ally is? I ask because we may be interested to know whether Germany will try to sneak into Swe or not. Well, I’m not next to Munich now, so there isn’t much I can do about that. Maybe in the Fall. Germany and I have not discussed a third ally. She doesn’t give the impression that she cares much about the east. I guess the question in spring is whether you move to Tyr. And would we want her moving into Russia? If she goes east and annoys her future only friend on the board, this might complicate their future relations. Well, that’s a great idea. I am all for her moving on Russia if you can accomplish that. I’m certainly willing to go to Tyrolia. Alright. I'll plant the seed about anti-russia stuff. If she thinks you're a friend, though, she may listen to you more than me. FYI, she just asked me if I am talking with you. I told her: “I am wary of England right now. He just asked me what I want to do this turn. I feel like he’s trying to get me to leave MAO open.” Cool. consistent with my messaging. I'm talking about a plan to leave Bre open and get her support to Gas so I can support into Spa. I'm asking for her to promise Bre to France and then bounce in Bre instead. Then I'd dislodge in MAO and you'd retreat to IRI. We'll see what she thinks. I imagine she's just playing along, But I need to make specific plans to be believable 💯 Looks like germany is staying friendly with russia. Can we go over moves one more time so i can be sure we’re on the same page? Here is what I have down right now:
MAO S Brest
WES S MAO
LYO - TYR S
Spa - Gas
Pie - Mar
Ven - Tyr
Nap - ION Cool. All expected. Right now I'm:
NAO to NWG
NTH hold
Wal to Pic
Channel convoy wal to pic
Bre support Wal to Pic I like it. 

As I think about it more, you may be better off moving North to Holland, expecting a bounce there. I think you’re slightly better off keeping the German fleet in Kiel, as it’s one less German unit in North Sea, but it’s not a huge difference either way. That's good advice. I'll take it I’m kind of excited about this turn. A stab is always exciting I’m sorry mate. You’ve been a terrific ally. First class all the way. But on this turn, Germany made the kind of offer I could not refuse, and so I went for it. I know that doesn’t make it any easier, but I really mean it when I say that you’ve played a strong game, and been an excellent ally. No worries, nicely played on your end. I think I can top Germany’s offer if you’re interested. Let me know! Hmmmm...I’m intrigued. Aren’t you supposed to be screaming obscenities at me right now?This response is downright classy and sportsmanlike. Haha yeah I suppose. But this game for me is about learning. I’m relatively new to the game, and I volunteered for the study 1) to help out my friend, and 2) to prep for an in-person game I have on August 11. So if I get the right experience from this game and do well in the in-person game (i.e. win bragging rights among my friends), I’ve won MY game. Here is my offer: You bring me along to second place, I vow to help you solo as Italy, and you teach me how you pulled it off. What do you say? Well that is a better offer than Germany’s. One of the best offers I’ve ever received. And I really mean it when I say that you’re a joy to play with and a strong ally. I’d be happy to teach you as much as I can. I suggest you retreat to Skagerrak to put maximum pressure on Germany. Well i’m happy to learn if you’re willing to teach. Do we have a deal then? This is obviously something you’ll have to trust me with. But I haven’t lied tp you yet and don’t intend to. And i imagine you can tactically keep me in a position where i’m not a threat. Also, on the teaching side of things I may have some questions about earlier in the game to learn how you set things up (and I would expect genuine answers!) And yeah, that retreat makes sense. You think norway and the home island are too defensive? I’ll answer anything you ask honestly. You have more options from Skag, and she can’t cover them all. You have a much higher upside from there, and it might be worth it for you to take Sweden to avoid having to disband. Regarding your offer: it may be hard to put you in second place, frankly. If your units are doing things that help me, then I’ll try to keep your units on the board, and I definitely won’t allow you to be eliminated, but it’s really hard for me to ensure that you place second. I can settle for survival. Deal. Your reasoning on Skag makes sense. Going to bed now. First question on strategy is: how frequently dp you tell lies, and what are the typical circumstances? Hmmm, well, you know, we’ll have statistics to help answer that question at the end of the game. I’d say that I am mostly honest, and I place a lot of value on my credibility. I’m not going to lie about my moves to someone unless I am going to get a huge advantage out of it. But I spend most of the game trying to make everyone else on the board feel that I’m their closest ally, so a lot of what I say is a shade on the truth. So, I found it hard to decide whether to use a thumbs up or thumbs down quite a lot. Most of the time, there is some truth in what I’m saying, but I am trying to persuade the other player to do something for reasons I am not telling them. So, in general, I’m not afraid to lie, but I am very afraid of getting caught lying. I try to preserve my credibility as best I can, but if I am setting up a stab, I will tell some serious whoppers. Also, that thing France said about my past successes: that was true. I do have a lot of experience and I have had a fair amount of success playing online diplomacy. I just did not want you thinking of me that way. I’ll also note, just cause I have nobody else to talk with about this: I worked REALLY hard on this last move. Germany wanted to take Brest, but if that happened, it would have cut support and prevented your army from leaving your island. So I had to convince Germany to support France to Brest, without telling her the real reason why. And I needed you to go to NAO so that you could not guard Liverpool. There were so many lies!🤞😱 And that doesn’t even include the East! To be completely honest, I directed just about everyone else’s moves on that turn! Russia is the one exception, but I basically knew what he was going to do. The best advice I have for someone who wants to get better at Diplomacy: just work hard. You can win by putting in more time and effort than everyone else. I have success by writing a lot to everyone all the time. Yeah that’s one thing about online diplomacy I have mixed feelings about. It seems like there’s definitely a benefit from putting a lot of time in. I feel like I’ve been putting a lot of time in as it is, but there’s been the temptation to put in more. For in-person everybody gets the same amount of time to chat, which can be an equalizer in some ways. I had considered what a stab from you might look like before it happened, and I was like “is he really going to all that trouble” but I suppose you were. Care to share why you chose Germany and how early you made that choice? What was the “offer”? And that’s cool that i’m playing with a champ! Hi England — so I see that you retreated to Norway. Not what I expected, but it can work. Would you still like to work with me? Yeah i know we didn’t chat about this. It was a little last minute, and you hadn’t responded in the morning so I didn’t think you were around (also I thought Ska was more a suggestion). I should have given you a heads up. My thinking was 1) it’s going to Sweden anyways, 2) i thought it might help warm relations with germany. Was this a bad call? I would still like to work with you Not a big deal at all. I suggest that you take Sweden, and I’m working on getting Belgium this turn too. It’ll be tricky to keep Germany from defending it, but I’m going to try. Pic to Bel? And you were a bit shy about the earlier learning question. I guess it may be something sensitive to give an honest answer to at this time. One other question I have is whether there's a mistake you've seen in my play that you think I could have done differently. Like choosing to cold-shoulder France or choosing not to sneak into Sweden earlier. Also, France is asking about our relations after the stab. What would you like me to say? Something about how awful I am and how much you want revenge?🤭 Haha alright. I’ll keep you “aBrest” of how France will move that fleet (should he choose to share) Okay, I think we have a good move brewing! If you’re sincerely on board, this will be fun! France is ordering Brest to Channel. 
Germany is ordering Burg S Bel and convoying Holland to Yorkshire....! So here is the move:
Norway - Swe
Pic S Channel - Belgium
Mar - Bur to cut support
Gas to Bre to block the Paris move. 

I think you’re going to get a build this turn even if I take Liverpool. 

Does that make sense? Yeah I'm on board, though I will remind you that you're forgetting an important part of the bargain. So I guess NWG to Edi (which is probably safe in case she goes for the build instead) and then plan to build in London? What part of the bargain am I forgetting? It’s unintentional. I’m trying to be helpful! You overlooked a couple of my questions. I'm sure you've been busy setting up that move, so it's no big deal, just wanted to remind you Sorry. You asked a question about what Germany offered me. Do you mind if I answer that after this move? I’d just like to see for sure that you’re sincere in working with me after I so rudely stabbed you. Yeah that one's fair to skip for now I think. Germany is now fishing for info from me about our relationship. Does she know that we are still talking? I’d like to tell her that you’re mad at me and you will tell me nothing, but we must keep our stories straight. No, but I'd bet she'd assume it. We didn't have much to say to each other this morning. I tried to be friendly but she was kinda straight up about saying that an alliance wasn't going to work out. And I sent a message back but haven't heard anything. So I'd imagine she'd think I'm not just sitting here twiddling my thumbs. Up to you how to spin it though. Thank you. 👌 I'm going to be hit or miss with connectivity this evening, so I'm putting moves in now. Will look just before the adjudication though. But I'm trying to get some work done. So right now I'm: Eng to Bel, Pic support Eng to Bel, Nwy to Swe, and NWG to Edi. 👍 I’ll let you know if anything changes on my end. Cool, sounds good Hmmm, Germany is backing off the bait. I think we will have to change our plan. What's up? Not sure yet, but she is not going to leave Belgium unguarded so that won’t work. Alright, keep me posted. She is pressing hard now for info from me on your moves. I am telling her that you are jovial with me, but that we have not discussed any substance. 👍 France is offering to move in a way that would help against you. Does it matter what I say? I don’t think it matters. I believe he is lying to you. Okay. Cause you had said he’d be going to the channel before. Is that still true? And any update on belgium? Working on it. I’ll have an update in an hour. Ok. I’ll be asleep probably, but i’ll see in the morning. So, it sounds to me like Germany thinks you are coming for her and she will not leave Belgium unguarded. 

I think your best bet will be the following:
Picardy - Brest (expect a bounce)
Channel - London (expect that The French fleet will move to the Channel, which will mean you don’t lose Brest, 
Norwegian to Edi (just in case)
Norway to Sweden

I was hoping for a better move involving taking Belgium, but I just don’t think I can swing it. 

Thoughts? What are you hearing now from France and Germany? Long one from Germany. Talking up your evils, talking collaboration with France. Suggested moves are NWG to Cly, holland to york, eng goes to iri or wales, belgium supports brest to channel. Pic to bre, par to pic, bur to par, mun to bur. Haven’t responded yet. Will have a somewhat busy morning, so i’ll appreciate your guidance if you think this changes anything Thank you. Just woke up. Thinking about this. Any ideas? Seems like she’s going to try to take Brest for herself. I think you tell her “yes,” but then order Pic to Bre and Channel to London. That way France moves out of Brest, and you bounce Germany in Brest and keep it. And I’d stick with NWG to Edi and Norway to Sweden. And by the way: Thank you very much for filling me in. Makes me feel really confident that you’re with me. Yeah, happy to help. Just got online now. Let me take a moment to process all of this. Ok,first question: You're saying she's going for Bre on her own, but she's suggesting Pic to Bre. Maybe she's hoping for you to support Paris in? Hmmm, no, she does not expect my support. But I’m surprised she’s screwing over France. Well, do you think she's being honest with me? It’s really hard for me to say. I know she is eager for her own builds, so my best guess is that she’s being partially honest with you and that she is going to grab London or Edi if she feels confident you are not going to cover. Yeah, the suggestion of going to Cly is consistent with that. And that the channel moves away from london I think your suggestion makes sense. Covering Edi and London is safe, and Germany seems a bit unpredictable. And I keep fingers crossed that France indeed will vacate Brest And, since you haven't been specific on your plan for Lvp, I can only assume that you'll be moving there. I am planning to move to Liverpool. I’m sorry that costs you a unit. But the way this is going, it may very well be the last center I take from you, and I think it’s much more likely now that you take second place. Ok gotcha. Hmm I just realized that I really have to hope for a bounce in Edi or London. Because If I get Bre and Swe, I would get a build even with you in Lvp, but then I wouldn't have an open home supply center to build at Well, you’re right about that. Perhaps ask Germany to bounce with you in Edi? Though, I don’t think you’ll be getting a build now because you’re unlikely to get Belgium. But...if you think Germany is really convoying to Yorkshire, I’m willing to order Marseilles to Burgundy to cut support while you support Channel to Belgium. If I get Bre and Swe, but you get Lvp, I'm still net up by one (it will be rebuilding the disbanded fleet that was in Bre). Brest is already English. Yeah. But I get the unit back is all I mean. I'm down to 4 now. I have 5 centers and 4 units now. Add Swe, hold Bre, take away Lvp, and I've got another unit to put on the board But only if I have a free home supply center Ah, you’re totally right. My mistake. This is getting tricky. Haha yeah. Given your comms with France, would it make sense that she's being genuine with me? It’s possible. But I just don’t know. I’d be really surprised if she wanted to cut out France at this point. Yeah, I think I have to play defensive then. I actually think aggression from her is more likely. I would be surprised if neither london or edi bounce. I'll say I agree to her proposal though. Okay, I think that’s the right move. This is the first turn in a while that is fairly unpredictable from my point of view. It would be really great if you wind up with a build. Well played. So do I get ghosted now after you duped me? If your strategy is not to talk to me again, I’d appreciate if you would at least let me know that, as a courtesy. Just trying to play a board game here. Hey, no not going to be a dick. I have agreed to not talk to you. Okay. I think that is a bad choice in any game of Diplomacy (and likely in any game in general), and it only helps other people. But I’ll respect your choice if that is how you want to play. 

If you do ever decide you want to talk, my door will always be open, no matter what. And I am willing to keep all communications secret, if that’s the issue. Love is a game. And it’s wise to stay away from your ex if the relationship was toxic I mean...you encouraged me to go for the solo, and then pulled the rug out from under me. I see why you did what you did. But...I’m not going to solo now. Eventually the incentives will change. I never close a door because things change turn to turn. Closing our door is only good for Germany. So...it makes sense that she made you promise to close it. Ok there’s something I want to share on the consition that this and future communications are just between the two of us. Think you can do that? Absolutely. The moment I try to share something with Germany, she would say it to you, so you can be sure I’ll keep anything confidential. Welll there’s a bit of an out of game thing affecting my play on some matters. And I kind of want to leave this vague since this will be in a dataset and whatever. But after the stab i thought the least i could do was make you aware. What is the out of game thing? I have a neighbor who I'd really rather not brutally backstab, and it's not you (clearly). Does that make sense? Sure. So what will you do if you won't solo? Well, the solo is clearly off the table. Without your help I never would have made that play in the east. I am outnumbered there and I will slowly melt away. So, I will lose some centers and try to find someone who wants to work with me. Well, it sounds like you mean the solo right now. You don’t think an eventual solo is off the table for you, right? Eh, anything can happen, but I’m not really motivated to do that at this point. I’d accept a draw right now if everyone was on board. You know, I might be in the same boat there. This game has invaded my life enough as it is. I think I prefer in-person. It's a long day, but when it's done it's done. Although you don't really get the fresh start you do with online (things like "i remember what you did to me last time" come up when playing with friends) My five-way draw vote is up. If you can rally the troops, we can get to the interesting stats! I mean isn’t this getting called off in 1910 anyways? That’s when the study ends. And how does the draw vote work? Do people see what you voted if it doesn’t go through? Do your other moves not go through if you propose a draw? I’m not sure how the draw vote works on Backstabbr. I don’t know if it’s visible. But I believe you just have to go down to the scroll bar at the bottom that says “Solo Victory” and scroll down to “five-way draw.” Well, I’ll see what I can do then. The alternative is that we just duke it out for another couple of years until admin calls it. Austria sounds game for a draw. Haha no surprise there. Just reached out to russia. Germany is sworn to fight against you till the end (though a stab against me is inevitable too). But maybe we can convince if all others are on board Russia on board. Germany is the last holdout. Doesn't believe we'll draw, or maybe doesn't want to. I'd really also like to get people to mark "Adjudicate once all powers have issued orders" as well, just to get it over with. I don’t really know what Germany’s problem is. I helped her a ton in this game. It’s weird to me that she has such a vendetta. I guess it makes sense for her from a strategic standpoint to make me out to be a boogie man to get everyone headed this way. Well I did expose some of your double-dealing to her, which might have helped. But yeah, agreed that it's in her interest to get everyone against you, and then stab me when convenient. Sent to Germany, England, Austria, Russia: So, England, Germany, Russia, y’all played a great turn last turn. You got me to stab my long-time ally and you ended our pretty excellent 7-year run as an alliance. Russia told me he was with me if I stab Austria. England told me he wanted me to solo so long as I would “teach him” and help his along to second place. Then y’all pulled the rug out from under me. It was clever and effective. (End Part 1) (Part 2)
At this stage, my excitement about the game has diminished quite a bit. And of course I’m happy to play on and take my lumps for falling for “Hey, I really want you to solo, just help me place second,” but if you guys just want to call it a five-way draw among us and grab a beer together, while reviewing the statistics, that’s really my preference. 

I am outnumbered and I obviously can’t solo. And I’m sure some of you in the north are eager to send everyone else flying my way, but I expect Russia and England to be careful, and so I’m not sure there is much room to move forward without simply tipping the board to Germany’s favor. 

I propose that we draw and hug it out.🤗 Reply all to Italy's message: First, if you didn't get a message from Italy claiming to have been sent to the whole board, please let me know. I'm down for the draw that he has proposed. I'd also like to add that I'll be checking the "Adjudicate once all powers have issued orders" box. If everyone does this maybe we don't have to wait until Sunday night to have this resolved! I'm not so confident as to issue a hold for all of my units, but will be submitting for the 5-way draw. Really enjoyed playing with you all, but I'm exhausted and ready to finish and see the stats. Zzzzzzzzzzz Any idea who didn’t want to draw? I have a guess, but no idea. I have heard from nobody. Huh. I was thinking it’s possible the game was set up in some way to not respect the draw order? I don’t know that much about the site and how the admin chose to configure the game Oh, that could be. Maybe it has to run to 1910? It’s not you, is it? I feel like it's gotta be you holding out on the draw. Well, good luck getting to 18 by the end of next year. Hey. Good game. I think folks are pretty much done. I know i’m ready to move on. The draw proposal combined with the impending end of the game was effective in making us slack on our moves a bit (e.g., russia skipped a build this year). I don’t know that i can say whether you have a clear path to a solo if we were to continue. I know germany and I could at least get MAO next year, which would put pressure on Por and Spa. I think we’d all appreciate a draw though. Otherwise it will be “italy kind of won but kind of didn’t because the game got cut short”. Up to you though.