Penzing Escalation

The **Penzing Escalation**, also known in Ostenbourgish as **Penzig Escalation**, was an event which took place on the 2nd of August 2022 on the grounds of the Penzing Palace, when a fight broke out between Ottacorp and Ostenbourg troops. Opinions concerning the incident are widely conflicting between Ottacorp and Ostenbourg citizens. Undeniable, however, is the fact that the event led to noticeably increased tension between the already rivaling powers of Ottacorp and Ostenbourg.

## **Background**

Beginning of August 2022 saw an upsurgence in activity of the Empire of Ostenbourg members, marked by the return of Owltz and a new member, Maddoix joining the faction. According to the government of Ostenbourg, the two players decided embark on a journey through all import settlements of the Greater Spawn Area. Furthermore, it is claimed that during their travels, they decided that Owltz's old base was to be their last destination, which meant that they would have to cross the grounds of Penzing Palace.

## **The incident**

The two players traveled by boat, until they reached the port of Penzing. They were met there by Henryk Wieniawsky, a member of Ottacorp. A short fight ensued. Although under heavy fire Owltz and Maddoix managed to secure a beachhead and acquired a temporary ceasefire for the night. When the morning awoke the two sides were ready for battle. The fight was even, although Ostenbourg possessed number advantage, Ottacorp was better equipped. After a few minutes of battle Owltz fell under Henryk's sword. It was a heavy blow for the Empire's forces yet for a period of time it mobilized them for further fight to revenge their fallen comrade and forced Henryk to retreat for some time. Finally the two sides clashed in the final struggle. In the end Henryk succeeded to slay Maddoix and Ottacorp claimed victory. It is important to note that during the event another member of Ottacorp - Vfox32 - was present at the location, yet for mysterious reasons decided to not interfere in the engagement. The possible reasons might be connected to Vfox good character and overall good relations with the Ostenbourg member Maddoix. The battle ended with both sides coming to terms and agreeing for a temporal armistice

## As seen by Ottacorp

In the eyes of Ottacorp's government, the Penzing grounds were malignantly attacked on said day by troops of the Ostenbourg Empire, arriving from the sea. The workers and troops residing at the palace, - which underwent renovation at that time - led bravely by Throneman Wieniawsky, honourably fought off the vicious invaders with little losses. Following this incident, sanctions were imposed upon the Empire; tensions are at an all-time high.

The government's statement concerning the incident goes as follows:

"*Citizens of the Most Serene Republic,*

*earlier today, soldiers of the Empire of Ostenbourg assaulted Penzing. Our forces, lead by none other than the throneman, repelled the invaders. The assault does not seem to be sanctioned by Johansburg, however such an act will not merely be ignored, and we expect reparations for the damages incurred!*"

## As seen by Ostenbourg

To the Emperor of Ostenbourg KidCalvin74, the incident was clearly a result of Ottacorp aggression, as according to several Ostenbourgian men involved, it was Ottacorp troops that shot them first.

The statement of the Emperor concerning the incident goes as follows:

*"Citizen of Ostenbourg and of the world, like many of you I learned today that a "military attack" happened on Penzig by Ostenbourg men.*

*This outrageous allegations against our peaceful people are scandalous and I am personally very affected by them. I have been put in touch with those involved in this matter, I have also listened to the voice of my people. A voice that roars and demands justice. A voice that thunders the frustration of a people oppressed and despised for far too long by a well-known enemy. People of Ostenbourg, I have heard you, I understand your feelings because I myself, before being promoted emperor by our glorious emperor Yhorm, was a citizen like you. I promise you that under my rule, justice will be done.*

*This skirmish at Penzig, which is clearly the result of hostile provocation by the enemy, is quite understandable. I therefore refuse with honour and dignity the demands for reparations demanded, I therefore understand and encourage the revolt of my people against an increasingly oppressive enemy!*

*May our Gods be with us as they were in the past!*

*Glory to the Dark Gods!*

*Glory to the Empire!*

*Calvin, Emperor of Ostenbourg, Archduke of Johanburg"*