open MLP Empires: Clash of Cultures - World Stage (Diplomacy,Trade & War)

[Lordav 3,427]

MLP EMPIRES

 

OOC Thread: https://mlpforums.com/topic/141074-mlp-empires-clash-of-cultures-diplomacytrade-war/page-1

Nations Info Thread: https://mlpforums.com/topic/141125-ooc-mlp-empires-nation-info/?p=4186543

Commoner RP Thread: https://mlpforums.com/topic/141385-mlp-empires-clash-of-cultures-commoner-thread-diplomacytrade-war/

Colonization Thread: https://mlpforums.com/topic/142769-mlp-empires-clash-of-cultures-colonization-diplomacytrade-war/

 

The world is set for conflict. The ruthless northerns start exploring their surrounding in order to assert their dominance over those who they see as lessers. IN the far east, the vast hordes and tribes are on the move, looking for new targets to raid and plunder. The south, a magical land full of wonderous beasts, a place not ready to meet the ways of the outsiders. The reign of harmony in the south might be over... This is the time nations meet, armies battle, a time for cultures to clash...

[Love Doctor Blaze 536]

Sappy was walking around his room. The room was decorated with books, beautifully carved wood and a king sized bed. A quill was in his claw, as he mumbled something. "So if i lower the taxes, then the citizens will have to pay for hospitals and schools. But if i increase it, with the promise that they can access hospitals and schools for free... That's a brilliant idea!" Said Sappy with a satisfied smile. He sat down and began to write on a piece of paper "Increase tax prize" He then looked at his book where all the things he needed to remember where written down. He looked at the date, and flipped over to the page with the same date. "Request a meeting with Princess Celestia" Mumbled Sappy. He looked up "Looks like this will be the first thing on the agenda" Said the old dragon and got up.

[Lordav 3,427]

[Capital City of Perlin; Population 2,000,000... The Imperial Palace]

 

The King, his majesty Ludrick I sat in his huge office, staring at a map of the known world. The map displayed the ponssian terrioty and a few rouch coastlines of the neighbouring landmasses. The state's industry had boomed under the rule of his father and now, the sky above the city was always black from the dark clouds of smoke. The factories burned thousands of tonnes of coal each day, feeding the Ponssian industrial machine, producing steel, weapons and heavy equipment. The king knew winter was coming and with the food supplies already emptying something had to be done. He was not going to stand by and watch as anther fifth of his subjects would perish in the dreaded winter, something had to be done.

 

the large wooden doors of his office opened and two unicorns, dressed in dark blue uniforms and wearing black hats with white plumes stepped in. As they walked the heels of their boots echoes through the long corridors. One of the two stallions spoke up with after a bow,

"You summoned us, you majesty?"

The young king slowly stood up from his cushoined chair and walked to the nearest wall. On it was painted the map he had on his desk.

"Gentlemen, winter is approaching and I trust you all know what this implies. Yet, now I say it is time for our people to starve and freeze no more."

The two stallions raised from their bows.

"The time has come for our glorious nation to step up in this world. The time has come for our invincible armies and armada to march once more. Gentlemen, I propose we explore south and east. We must spread our influence and civilization to all those out there, we have been chosen by the Lord himself. It is our duty."

After a short pause he walked up to the two ponies,

"Admiral Gerald, i wish 12 frigates to be ready for sail, we shall send four expeditions. Explore the uncharted land and see how it can help our most divine kingdom."

One of the ponies saluted, bowed again and left the room.

"Commandor Brunswick, For too long we have isolated ourselves from our neighbours, I wish a diplomatic envoy be created and sent here..."

He grabbed a stick and hit the wall on one of the barely drawn coastines.

"Lets see if we can reach an agreement."

The second pony saluted and left the room. The king walked to the balcony and glared at the capital city.

 

Below the dense smoke clouds rising from the east of the city lies hundreds of thousands of little crammped buildings. The area around the palace was mainly populoated by rick mansions with their own gardens and fountains but as you moved outwards the atmosphere changed. Houses were small and squished together on the streets. Carriages and horse-pulled trams frequently travelled the overcrowded streets. Ponies from both classes, middle an working went about trying to do their job as well as they could. It was common to see a homeless citizen starving on the street, sleeping in a pile of old newspapers, especially on the outer rim of the cities, where the population was the poorest. The only buildings that enlightened the atmosphere were the numerous churches scattered around the city.

 

The grand harbour however was always bustling with activity, especially the millitary one, The navies grand ships awed citizens left and right as they passed by. The frigates were ready to depart after a few hours. Strong sailors and small groups of well trained marines were boarding the vessels, ready to leave.

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav,

 

Captain Gloomfury stood on the bow of his ship, the Wrath, tossing a gold coin in the air. He wore a black captains coat along with a blood red hat with a black feather. The gold peace he was tossing wasn't from his own nation. Two weeks ago one of his scouting ships cam across another country, seemingly out out of the blue. After giving his map maker a piece of his mind for this over site, he sent another ship to spy out the land. Passing off as a trading ship.

 

When they came back, they had a large bag filed with the same coin he was tossing up so casually with no regard. One of his men lifted off one of the noble looking ponies, they said. Seeing the gold made him want to seek out this nation and visit it himself. Even meet with it's leader. But he understood that if he just went up to their castle and ask to meet him, they would just laugh and toss him out on his arse. So he brought something that would get the leaders attention.

 

Three man'o wars. Two on the sides of his ship the other behind him. 

 

Gloom gave a wicked grin, exited about what will happen when they reach the foreign land.

 

The next thing he did was toss the gold coin over board as an offering to the Bearded Lady. He was going to need a bit of luck from her for what was about to come. But the thought of danger only made his wolfish grin grow even bigger.

Edited November 4, 2015 by Gloomfury

[CrimsonWeb 786]

Embers smiled as he looked over the chess game, he was playing himself, no were near as much fun as it would have been to play one of his generals, but most of them were preparing for winter, recruiting and whatnot. He shifted his large cloak, which covered most of his body as well as concealing a sword.

 

He stood up, flinging his chair backwards and wondered pointlessly around for awhile, before grabbing a book and walking out of the hotel he was currently in, pulling up his cloak over his head to conceal his face, he walked past the few pony's who were in the lobby.

 

Emerging into the cold street, he glanced around for a clear path and started off down the side of the road, heading towards the small library located near were he was staying to observe the defensing of one of the new forts. He shook his head, sighing as he remembered that he had to attend another meeting near the time he would have normally liked to be sleeping, He looked up at the sky, were dark clouds were forming, and quickend his pace,

[Once In A Blue Moon 895]

In the grand hall of McGrath Castle, overlooking Loch Farren and nestled deep in the heartland of the Shetland Kingdom, his majesty King Archus Shetland II was meeting with his privy council.

 

"...of about 5% reserve, and should not fall beneath the critical 2% level so long as the harvest is brought in on time and trade projections reach at least 70% of predicted levels," the Counsellor for Agricultural Affairs Verdus Green  was explaining, "The agricultural reforms, along with a slight increase in sanctioned imports, have given us the breathing room we need to keep rations at a high enough level to avoid rioting, although the point must be stressed that our position remains tenuous." He stopped when another pony, the Counsellor for Industrial Affairs Igneous Smith, raised a hoof, and King Archus gestured that he should speak.

 

"My question is for the Right and Honourable Locus Hoof," he said, turning to the relatively new Counsellor for Foreign Affairs, “How can we rely on free traders for one of our most vital resources? Some are little better than savages and tribals, and whilst they appreciate our black powder firearms they will not be satisfied with obsolete junk forever. Some of them bear weapons that are clearly of foreign design, and if anther nation supplies them with better guns then we will have lost our biggest bargaining chip.”

 

“The Right, Honourable and Learned Igneous Smith raises a valid point, sire,” Locus answered, addressing King Archus directly, “But with the limited resources available to the Foreign Office we cannot offer anything better to trade. If you could release some of our more recently decommissioned cannons…”

 

“Into the hands of primitives? Preposterous,” Audus Sharpe, the Counsellor for Military Affairs interjected, “Even our retired equipment is vastly ahead of their technology, and we cannot sacrifice our valuable resources and manufacturing capacity to build junk cannons on the off-chance that some tribal will wash up and want to trade for it.”

 

“Alternatively,” Locus pressed on, “If the crown could release just a couple of deep-sea steamers to the foreign office then we could send out trade delegations to find a more reliable source of food. The merchants tell us that the lands to the South are warmer and sunnier, with much more fertile land. More importantly, they speak of distant nations that, although lacking our sophistication and development, are eager to acquire ‘Northern technology’ – we could solve our food problems for good if they are willing to trade.”

 

“You want to send a valuable, modern steamer in search of some mystical land of milk and honey with only the word of primitive vagabonds to go on? Are you insane?” Audus retorted, disdain evident on his face.

 

“Enough, Audus.” King Archus said firmly, and Counsellor subsided with a brief bow, “I find appeal in Locus’ suggestion.”

 

“But, sire,” Audus began, casting around the table for support. Finding none, he relented. “We have eight steamers that could be refitted for long-distance sailing, so long as the crew was kept to a minimum and they used coal sparingly. We can only spare two of them without compromising our national security, though. There are five old hybrid sail-steamers still in commission, although they would require substantial work before they were suitable for a long voyage.”

 

“How long?” Archus asked,

 

“We could make the two steamers ready within a month –  two if we reinforce their emergency masts and sails. The hybrids would take four months of work each, and we only have three dry-docks suitable for the work required. All of them are available for the Foreign Office’s use, however.” Audus said, keeping his tone respectful when addressing the monarch. 

 

“We cannot wait for the hybrids, not if we want to bring in food before the end of next winter. Have the steamers ready in two months; faster if you can. Use whatever resources you need from the shipwrights, but be sure that the ships are fully prepared. Start work on the hybrids, I want as many of them as ready as possible by the time the steamers return – ideally we will want to make a second trade run before the Winter storms set in.”

 

“Yes, sire.”

 

"Locus, I will expect the Foreign Office to plan and execute this. I trust that my faith in you will be justified."

 

"It will, sire."

Edited November 5, 2015 by Once In A Blue Moon

[Lordav 3,427]

@@Gloomfury, 

 

The harbour of Danzhoof was flanked by two long curved artificial breakwaters, creating a circle with a diameter of about 2 km. The only way into the port was a 500m wide gap, whose ends were fortified by two battery positions, each manning 2 17.72 inch cannons and 8 10 inch cannons. A tall lighthouse stood proud in the middle of the artificial lake, while smaller light towers were distributed along the breakwaters. THe breakwaters were also fortified by a long wall, bearing a wide variety of defensive cannons from 8 to 10 inch cannons. The port itself was dug into the mainland, creating a bottleneck between the articial lake and the dug in one (think of it as 8-shaped, with one of the loops dug inland). A fourth of the dug in circle as under the control of the navy, stationing one Ocean-Ironclad, 4 72-gun ironcladded steam-third rates and a contingent of 7 frigate, as well as 10 small patrol gunboats. The fleet was stationed there for at least 2 years, therefore it is not ready to function at full potential in case of action.

 

Near the end of one of the breakwaters, a Ponssian field-Captain oversaw the ports defense. A Ponssian soldier ran towards the captain and saluted him,

"Reporting in, sir! We have spotted four vessels approaching, too large to be trading ships."

"Perhaps they are the 9th Patrol Squad, making an unschedueled stop?"

"Negative sir, these ships do not appear to have steam engines, definetly not ours."

"Very well..."

The Captain takes out his telescope and looked in the direction the soldier indicated,

"Intriguing, they seem to be totally wooden, still relying on sail. Much as our own warships 70 years ago. Though I am certain they cant possibly bare anything heavier than a 32-pounder. Raise the alarm, i want all batteries ready to respond to a hostile threat... And get those ships we have waterborn again"

"Yes Sir!" the soldier saluted.

Withing moments the entire ports garrison was in action. Some 130 soldiers and 500 millitia were now rushing around loading the guns and manning the walls. The steamships in the harbour were being crewed and work on them started immidiately to try and get them into a more prestigious state. All guns were pointed towards the intruders. The ironcladded ships, with their superior armour, mobility and firepower could easily dispose of the wooden-hulled ships, yet nobody knew the strength of this unknown strangers, perhaps they had a much larger force waiting. Nomatter how advanced the steamships were, they werent invincible.

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav, 

 

Captain Gloom grinned some more after looking though his spyglass to see the harbor getting ready for battle. "Look at that boys. We got them running around like a bunch of headless chickens!" She shouted in a booming voice. Everyone on each ship let out thunderous laughter. Gloom then ordered the the man'o wars in a bombardment line. Just encase things went south. He then hoisted his his flag, which was used also as the flag of his land, along with a white flag to show that they wanted a parlay.

 

He then made drove his ship slowly towards the harbor leaving his other ships ready to fire when ready. When he thought they were close enough he dropped a boat into the water and got in with a few of his crew and his quartermaster, laving the first mate in charge of the ship. They than made there way to the harbor while holding up a white flag.

[Lordav 3,427]

@@Gloomfury, 

 

"Three warships have turned their broadsides towards us sir, the other one hoisted a white flag and is moving forward, sir!"

The captain smiled,

"Well, lets just make sure of that. Have the Big Guns fire two warning shots in case they plan anything. Lets see how they like the sze of our caliber."

The two massive port guns fired, their two giant shells hit left and right of the approaching ship. The steamships started pumping out smoke and moved towards the strangers. The black column of smoke trailing behind them they adoted a spearhead formation, the ironclad leading its tip.  All guns were loaded and the crews were ready. As they approached the incoming ship, the ship's captain used his microphone (old prototype, made in the 1870s) to relay a message through the loudspeakers placed above the cabin (Again, very primitive loudspeakers).

"This is the Ponssian Ironclad SMS Defiance, you have entered a restricted area armed and unannounced. State your buisness or be blown out of the water!"

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav,

 

Gloom and the crew in his boat laughed when they fired warning shots.  "What better way to announce oneself then showing up armed?!" Gloom boomed, hardly needing a microphone. "I am Captain Gloomfuy Dovegreen. Pirate king of the nation of Skerghaven. I'm looking to parlay with your leader and maybe set of a little trade root. But seeing as he's probable taking a shite in a outhouse made of gold instead of meeting me face  to face. Would ya kindle take me to meet him?" He men snickered. 

[Wicked Funky 2,955]

The central mountains of Pruine

 

Serylda riding high on her trusty companion through the busy camp, The blistering cold didn't get to her, Even though it was a tad colder then usual.  Around her were large tents lit by the warming fires, Warriors from the herd sharpening their large swords and axes and of course many, many Pruine flags. 

 

A gray stallion with an owl accompanying him approached her, "Another 100 000 should be ready by morning..." He said looking as nervous as he sounded. Serylda turned her head towards the stallion who's mane was blowing fiercely in the wind, "Good, Can I expect the rest to be ready by the end of the next moon (Month)?" She said with a stone cold expression like usual. "Well, Possibly. The herd is running low on rations, And some might need to depart..." She looked up into the sky, "I see... Let me handle it.".

 

It wasn't long since her father passed away, And what she had in mind was something he never did except for when marching to war...  She was sure her warriors would join her, Given their loyalty. Her idea, Even though breaking traditions, Was to leave Pruine in search of something that would be able to sustain the herds, Taking it if it comes to it.

 

She herself was not able to leave, Since the herds needed her more then ever now, With her fathers act almost dooming the nation. But she had 9 000 000 million warriors ready, And she was confident they would be able to handle it.

Edited November 5, 2015 by Gentleman Cruki

[CrimsonWeb 786]

Embers arrived at the library, meeting up with one of his advisers. He returned the book, and sat down, glancing across the table at her. "So, hows everything going?" Embers asked, a tad bit smug. She responded, "Very well, We have collected much more then enuff food to last through the winter, due to the choice to send most of our active soldiers back to there farms, as well as large gains in basically everything other then military"

 

Embers nodded slowly, as he took a look out of his window. "So, seeing as we have no need for military currently, have you also sent back the generals? Moral is very important , and I want our generals to be well attended too" The pony across from him nodded once, "Mhm, I have also talked to the officers and had all of them notified that there men might need to be called up on a moments notice"

 

Embers stood up, his chair screeching slightly as it moved back, moving slowly forward to the exit "Thank you, you and your people are doing a very good job, I expect you too keep up the good work, also, ah...Make sure that you get some fun your self, go out, have a party, Ill see you later" Embers walked out the door, back down the barren street. Most of the ponys were already preparing for winter, making sure that there food was stocked, and that they had enuff warm cloths to make it through the winter.

[Lordav 3,427]

@, 

 

After a long sail, one of the four expeditions, traveling east has finally reached a coast. The frozen and hungry took no time to immidiately send rowboats to land. About 200 soldiers disembarked from the three frigates as well as 300 other ship personnel such as gun crew, explorers and cook. 100 ponies stayed back on the ships. The landers quickly set up camp, putting up tents, surrounding the perimeter with stakes and lighting bing, warm fires. Unlike most of the ragged crew the soldiers were, as usual in impecable form, with clean uniforms and confident looks. A horseback expedition of about twelve cavalryponies was sent deeper inland to hunt. Due to frequent famines, Ponssians had to turn to eating meat for nutrition. After a good amount of generations, they were now used to consuming animal and fish flesh (no equine meat tho =p)

 

@@Gloomfury,

 

The insulting words towards the head of state disgusted most of the crew. The ships formed a circle around the enemy fleet while all costal batteries were aimed at the three distant ships. As much as he felt compelled to blow these ignorant intruders into the sea, the captain knew he had to handle this diplomatically.

"Hold where you are!" he informed the pirates.

The captain quickly ordered a signal be sent to the harbour. A onship floodlight used morse code to transmit the intruders demands to the onshore office. From there, a telegraph was immidiately sent to the capital marked as high priority. After about five minutes, the floodlight on the onshore office started signalling. 

Another one minute passed before the loudspeakers boomed out again,

"His Serene Highness has proved to be interested in your request. Prepare to be Boarded!"

Two small metal boats, each holding rough ten soldiers approached. The captain was present on a thrid motorboat lagging behind the first two, holding the same amount of soldiers.

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav,

 

The pirate king grinned showing off his sharp teeth a little. "Fantastic! And don't worry, we brought presents." Then the men in his rowboat pulled up five large crates. Gloom held up one and opened it. Reviling that it was filled with Skerghaven brewed ale. "As a little peace offering. Feel free to give it to your crew. When their off duty, of course." He smiled.  "But I'll have to warn ya." He smile turn into an evil  and threatening one. "If by chance this is a trick and ye try to get rid of us. Know that I ordered my fleet to lay waste to your land. Offer one hoof but arm the other, you understand. Aye?" 

[Lordav 3,427]

@@Gloomfury, 

After the pirate kings comment of 'blasting them away' he captain looked at the ship he was about to board, then towards the three in the distance. He smugged, these four old vessels would barely even scratch the mighty port defences and fleet. 

"Soldiers are forbidden from drinking during the transition seasons! Punishment would be 130 flogs, however we will acccept your 'gift'" he said. The soldiers climbed abord the ship, their clean uniforms made them feel imposing as they made two perfectly staright lines to protect the captain. 

"I am captain Sclutz of the 23rd patrol squadron. I have been insructed to escort you to the coast where a tra..."

"They probably dont have trains." he thought,

"Where a suitable form of transport will take you to the capital. Unitl then, you are to instruct all weapons to be unloaded and a guard be established on each of your ships to ensure.... good behavious."

The soldiers simultaneously lowered their bayonets a little,

"Otherwise we will be forced to open fire... and i doubt any of your ships will survive... and i trust neither of us wants that now do we?" he added with a smal smile,

"Now, shall we"

he gestured towards the boat.

 

@@Once In A Blue Moon,

After traveling fore a long time with nothing but open sea again, one of the south-going expeditions spotted another column of smoke in the distance. The three ironcladded-steam frigates made due towards the distant vessels. The lead frigate used its floodlight to hail the distant ships with morse code, instructing them to stop or proceed on an interception route. 

[The Pixelated Pony 883]

Derby walked down the hall she was annoyed with the state of the castles water treatment without that the only water would be coming off the ships from the mainland which made it even worse as the recent bad weather ment that a ship hadn't docked on the Woodborough islands for several days she was also being plagued by constant headaches from dehydration making it extremely hard for her to find a conclusion that would satisfy the people and let her sleep until then it was sleepless nights, research and trade routes.

 

She walked into the main hall and sat at the head of the table (why can't things be like they used to?) She thought. A stallion burst into the room shouting the doors slamming against the wall "Your Majesty we have a breakthrough! " Derby looked at him " oh umm Sorry your majesty but as I was saying we have new that ships can finally leave and or arrive at the dock!" This ment two things to Derby one water and two invaders and in the current state of affairs they couldn't hold up for much longer.

[Gatekeeper Giggle 2,902]

The High Magi's Tower, Medias

 

High Magi Crystal Tower looked over the the most recent reports as he reclined in his throne, a grim expression on his face. Things were not going well. Ponies were starving in the streets as the food shortage only got worse and worse as time went on. Resentment was stirring in the underfed populace, and Crystal Tower could easily see the seeds of civil unrest growing. Something had to be done. 

 

"You may come in now." Crystal Tower muttered in a hoarse voice, trying not to strain his voice. A single unicorn trotted in, wearing very ornate robes and a very silly hat. "Ah, Magi Silver Gleam. Have you gotten a chance to look over these reports?" Crystal tower gestured to the reports scattered across the hoofrest of his throne.

 

Silver Gleam nodded. "Yes, High Magi. If I may say so, the reports look... discouraging. What shall we do?"

 

Crystal Tower did not respond immediately, lost in thought. His gaze was turned towards the ceiling as his mind was working on a solution. After a while his gaze returned to Silver gleam, determination in his eyes. "This may be the most foolish thing ever done, or it may save our nation. Somewhere out there, there must be fertile land and food for us to use to feed our ponies. I want two of our finest floating castles to explore the land beyond out boarders for food, or maybe even ponies willing to trade for food. I want these floating castles well equipped for any dangers or opportunities that may present themselves. They will be fully stocked with gems for potential trade and supplies for building a colony; and they will both have a full crew of 100 War Wizards and ten golems in case of danger. Finally, each floating castle will be under the direct command of one of the Magi, one of whom will be you, Silver Gleam. You and the other Magi will  also be bringing a Crystal Slab with you so I can track your progress." Crystal Tower, having finished giving his order, gazed expectantly at Silver Gleam.

 

Silver Gleam was flabbergasted by these orders, but bowed anyway. Once the High Magi gave a command, it had to be followed. "Yes, High Magi. With your leave I shall depart to relay your orders."

 

Crystal Tower nodded, but said one final thing before allowing Silver Gleam permission to leave. "One final thing... Make sure you and the other Magi bring along two of our... best servants on your mission. One cannot be too careful..."

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav,

 

 Gloom sighed and shrugged. "Understood." Him and his men that will be going with him started to disarm. Gloom took off his  cutlass, knife and dagger, along with fives flintlock pestles, four grenadoes, a hidden blunderbuss and a straight razor hidden in his hat. "Always be armed to the teeth." He said grinning, showing off his sharp teeth again. He then grabbed two of the bottles of ale from a crate, placing one in his pocket and opening the other. "Hope you don't mind if I drink." He said before taking a long swig from the bottle.

 

He then looked back at his ships and spoke in his booming voice." Alright boys, mind your manners and treat our guests well. Or I'll have ye all clean my ships with your tongues again!" The crew going with him all made a face at remembering having to do that. HE then stepped onto Sclutz boat, drinking a little more from the bottle.

[Once In A Blue Moon 895]

After traveling fore a long time with nothing but open sea again, one of the south-going expeditions spotted another column of smoke in the distance. The three ironcladded-steam frigates made due towards the distant vessels.

"Commodore, smoke stack on the horizon." Commodore Skye looked up from the desk at the messenger, who was standing respectfully just outside his cabin door.

 

"Very good. Tell Captain Clyde that I will be up on deck directly,"

 

"Aye, sir."

 

Pausing only to strap on his ceremonial sabre, Skye left his cabin and headed directly to join the captain on the Quarterdeck. Several fully-equipped marines were also heading up to the deck, and sailors were trotting to and fro more frantically than usual. Although his rank meant that he was very rarely jostled, it was still slow going and by the time Skye reached the deck the ship was already at action stations.

 

"What do we have, captain?" Skye asked.

 

"Smoke on the horizon about twenty degrees to starboard - definitely a steamer, no islands that close. Probably more than one, as it's still quite distant. Argyll is at actions stations, as is Ardent," he gestured to their sister ship, slightly port and aft of Argyll, "The squadron awaits your orders, sir." Skye thought for a moment, staring at the distant smoke as though trying to divine the future from it, then turned to his signaller.

 

"Signal Ardent to break off East and meet us at our next stop, avoid the unknown ships, wait one week and then press on with our mission. Repeat back and confirm order," whilst the signaller flashed the message across to Ardent, Skye turned back to Clyde, "Captain, I would like you to take the ship and investigate the unknown ships to starboard. Keep in line with Ardent so that we can hide their smoke stack with ours,"

 

"Aye, sir."

The lead frigate used its floodlight to hail the distant ships with morse code, instructing them to stop or proceed on an interception route.

Half an hour later and the distant ships had closed rapidly - clearly they had also seen the Argyll. As the lead ship in the unknown squadron flashed a message over, Clyde had a runner fetch Skye from his cabin where he had been donning his full commodore regalia. With Skye back on deck, Clyde had the signaller repeat the message.

 

"Respond that Commodore Skye of the Shetland Kingdoms Navy wishes to speak with their commanding officer," Skye said, "Captain, could you put us on a slow course to intercept, we wouldn't want to startle them."

 

"Aye sir. The guns are still run in, so we shouldn't appear too threatening. Certainly not to three ironclads."

 

"I'll see if I can get you an ironclad next time, Captain," Skye said, trying to put his captain a bit more at ease.

 

"I would appreciate that, sir."

 

The Shetland Kingdoms still had a predominantly wooden navy, and although a refit was underway only coastal defence boats and other shallow-water ships had been upgraded, as it was still uncertain how the new ironclad ship designs would fare in stormy weather at sea. That left the navy at a huge disadvantage on the high seas, although it had always been general policy for the army to take the lion's share of the defence budget, Skye thought grimly. The marines were well-trained and equipped, sharing the same rifles as the army, and the prevailing view was that good infantry could still make a difference at sea, but good ships would be of no use to a land army that had always focused on defence. Maybe if this mission succeeded, though, the navy could push for more funding.

Edited November 7, 2015 by Once In A Blue Moon

[The Pixelated Pony 883]

Derby walked down the hall she was annoyed with the state of the castles water treatment without that the only water would be coming off the ships from the mainland which made it even worse as the recent bad weather ment that a ship hadn't docked on the Woodborough islands for several days she was also being plagued by constant headaches from dehydration making it extremely hard for her to find a conclusion that would satisfy the people and let her sleep until then it was sleepless nights, research and trade routes.

She walked into the main hall and sat at the head of the table (why can't things be like they used to?) She thought. A stallion burst into the room shouting the doors slamming against the wall "Your Majesty we have a breakthrough! " Derby looked at him " oh umm Sorry your majesty but as I was saying we have new that ships can finally leave and or arrive at the dock!" This ment two things to Derby one water and two invaders and in the current state of affairs they couldn't hold up for much longer.

"Harrison? Get me a messenger the fastest one we have. Tell them its urgent " Derby said turning away from him. Harrison ran away as fast as he could if it was urgent then something had to be done

 

After a couple of minutes he came back with a pegasus stallion who bowed to Derby "you summoned me your majesty?" Derby walked over to him "you may rise" she said "I have summoned you here to assign you a single task. You must fly to one of the neighbouring countries and convince them to send water in return tell them we have food, coal and wood. Please take this... " she gave him one of three canteens of fresh water "you'll need it"

 

Derby watched from the second tower as the stallion flew away the last hope for the woodborough islands

[CrimsonWeb 786]

Embers layed back in his chair, having just spend a few hours lying around doing absolutely nothing, he was very glad that he had made such a autonomous government. He did, however, need to do one thing. Embers walked over to his desk, and started writing about a new idea he had, and something he should have done long ago.

 

 

He wondered if the generals he was sending this too would agree, would they send there men out, into the unknown? Embers knew of course, that this was the only way to become a better nation, and learn new things.... Anitha had been a very isolated country for basically all the time it had been a country, and he wished to change that. If there were other nations, he guessed there were, but having never met anyone himself....It might be a good time to venture. 

[Lordav 3,427]

@@Gloomfury,

 

The captain was taken to shore where he was put on a private train. This was one of the fastest trains in the country as it had a private track, used only by diplomatic and royal transports. The train raced along the mountain range through a tunnel dug right through a mountain. There, in the middle of the mountain, it stopped i a hidden station. It was very well guarded and well lit. The pirate king was then placed on another underground train that took hi right in the middle of the capital. This was part of a large network of railways meant to ensure the evacuation of the king in time of need. The exit from the station was disguised as a normal old street shop. The moment they stepped out, they were in the posh part of town. Marble mansions with huge gardens and fountains surrounded the main alley. All Ponssian ponies were of white, brown, black or pale colour, none of them had any lively coulours such as red r pink, this was due to the amount of light they were gatting in the north-west. If one looked along the avenue, he could see it ended with the royal palace. It was a vast, breathtaking complex, guarded by no less than 400 of the kings own personal guard. A carraige arrived at the station exit and took them to the palace gates, passing by all the richest mansions of the city. 

A servant in aristocratic clothes appeared,

"Greetings, my name is Francis de Leu, I shall be escorting you to his majesty.... but first, you are requested to be dressed... appropriately."

He said looking at Glooms clothes, with a bit of disgust.

 

 

@@Once In A Blue Moon,  

 

The lead frigate was the SMS Dussledorf, it was a 38-gun ironcladded frigate, crewed by about 200 men, including 75 marines. Unlike most navies, Ponssian marines recieved the exact same training as Ponssian soldiers, plus a training in a smaller battlefield such as a ship. Theywore the exact same prussian-blue uniforms with white pants. They had huge backpacks and rifles. Each frigate had a gatling gun placed on its bow in order to mow down enemy crew. The ships were in perfect condition, all guns armed and ready for any potential threat. The captain, Fredrick Shattershoof stepped on deck,

"Unknown ships heading this way captain, they hailed us requesting a meeting with you, sir!"

"Very well, signal that our intentions are peacful and that we accept they're request... onboard our ship of course!"

"Yes captain!"

 

The Dussledorf stopped its engines, awaiting for the unknown ships to arrive and dock with them, the other two frigates moved on the flanks and stopped, they needed to be ready in case things went ugly."

[Gatekeeper Giggle 2,902]

@@The Pixelated Pony, 

 

After what seemed like an eternity of travel, first over the gravely wastelands of Medeis and then over open water, the first floating castle sent out approached an island. Magi Blue Flare, the Magi put in charge of this particular floating castle, was perched atop the highest tower of the castle. She looked about the seemingly endless body of water that surrounded them, looking around for land. Spotting what looked like a smudge on the horizon, she raised her spyglass to take a closer look, and let out a gasp, amazed by what she saw. Trees! Before today she had only seen pictures of trees in books, and yet this island was covered in countless numbers of them! Looking closer, she could see small towns scattered across the island. Immediately she sent orders to her crew to start moving towards the mysterious island.

 

 

<<>>

 

@@EquestrianScholar,

The second floating castle had a much shorter journey ahead of it. After only a few short weeks of travel, the wastelands of Medeis gave way to grassy plains and wooded forests. The Magi in charge of this castle, Silver Gleam, uneasily monitored the surrounding terrain with a wary eye. Most of the crew were amazed by the strange land, but it worried him greatly. About a day ago they had spotted a large mountain in far off in distance with what could only be a large white palace perched on the side of it, and were slowly but surely making their way towards it in hopes of entering diplomatic relations. Silver Gleam was worried that they might be hostile, so he had ordered the crew to maintain battle readiness at all times, but not to attack unless attacked first. He desperately hoped they wen't hostile, as they had passed a lot of fertile farmland on the way here, and if they were open to trade it could mean that their food problem could be solved.

[The Pixelated Pony 883]

@@The Pixelated Pony, 

 

After what seemed like an eternity of travel, first over the gravely wastelands of Medeis and then over open water, the first floating castle sent out approached an island. Magi Blue Flare, the Magi put in charge of this particular floating castle, was perched atop the highest tower of the castle. She looked about the seemingly endless body of water that surrounded them, looking around for land. Spotting what looked like a smudge on the horizon, she raised her spyglass to take a closer look, and let out a gasp, amazed by what she saw. Trees! Before today she had only seen pictures of trees in books, and yet this island was covered in countless numbers of them! Looking closer, she could see small towns scattered across the island. Immediately she sent orders to her crew to start moving towards the mysterious island.

 

 

 

<<>>

 

@@EquestrianScholar,

The second floating castle had a much shorter journey ahead of it. After only a few short weeks of travel, the wastelands of Medeis gave way to grassy plains and wooded forests. The Magi in charge of this castle, Silver Gleam, uneasily monitored the surrounding terrain with a

wary eye. Most of the crew were amazed by the strange land, but it worried him greatly. About a day ago they had spotted a large mountain in far off in distance with what could only be a large white palace perched on the side of it, and were slowly but surely making their way towards it in hopes of entering diplomatic relations. Silver Gleam was worried that they might be hostile, so he had ordered the crew to maintain battle readiness at all times, but not to attack unless attacked first. He desperately hoped they wen't hostile, as they had passed a lot of fertile farmland on the way here, and if they were open to trade it could mean that their food problem could be solved.

Derby watched the sea surrounding the island when she noticed that a floating castle was heading for the island immediately she gave the order to check out the structure and soon three of Woodborough's finest ships were sailing out heading for them.

 

The boats arrived and began circling the castle "state your business here or you will be forced to leave " the captain of the biggest ship said " and don't try any funny buissness I'm warning you we have powerful allies ." the ships bobbed up and down in the water silent waiting for a reply from the unexpected visitors

[Gatekeeper Giggle 2,902]

Derby watched the sea surrounding the island when she noticed that a floating castle was heading for the island immediately she gave the order to check out the structure and soon three of Woodborough's finest ships were sailing out heading for them.

 

The boats arrived and began circling the castle "state your business here or you will be forced to leave " the captain of the biggest ship said " and don't try any funny buissness I'm warning you we have powerful allies ." the ships bobbed up and down in the water silent waiting for a reply from the unexpected visitors

Magi Blue Flare saw the ships leave the island, approach the floating castle, and start circling around it through her spyglass. She grew exited, they were about to make contact with the mysterious island civilization! But she grew dismayed when she saw that they were shouting up at the castle. She strained her ears to see if she could hear them, but couldn't hear a word they were saying. The castle was just too high up in the air for their voices to reach! She quickly ordered some of her most trusted crew members to prepare to teleport down to the biggest ship to initiate proper communication. She hoped they wouldn't be too surprised when they seemingly appeared out of nowhere on the deck of their ship, but it couldn't be helped. 

Edited November 7, 2015 by Stormgiggle