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

[Lordav 3,426]

@@CrimsonWeb,

 

"We are here to escort you 'mam." one of the guards told her. Outside the station the crowded city was in full action. The sky was grey from the smoke while the streets filled with ponies running around. The mare was indicated towards a carriage which took her towards the govermental zone. As they went on the houses became richer, fancier and larger. The streets were all paved and electric lamp-posts illuminated them. They were now on the main avenue, in front of hem, in the distance, a huge luxurious palace could be seen.

 

@@Once In A Blue Moon,

 

Ponssia had mobilized four steamers for the cable laying. The new cable had been connected to the main line therefore giving it direct access to the capital. The two 'teams' were to meet in the middle of the straight in order to connect their cables, establishing a fast communication line between the two northern nations.

 

@,

 

On board the ead warship a marine corp lietenant was surveying the approaching island. He spotted three dots approaching in the distance and took out his binoculars for a better look. As soon as he glanced through them, he dropped them. 

"Cap... Captain! You better take a look at this."

The captain rushed on deck and zoomed through his own binoculars.

"What i the Lords name! Demons! Stop the ships, mobilize the crew, tell them to be ready for anything!"

Alarm bells rung all over the ships as the steam engines were forcefully put on full reverse to stop the vessels. Marines filled the decks holding their rifles tight while the guncrew readied the cannons, even though they were still concealed behind the port-holes. They had to be ready to act against whatever these creatures were.

 

@@Gloomfury,

 

Guards were checking every exit point from the dock. Any boat was usually checked by at least two guards and sometimes crates were open to verify the cargo. As the group approached the docks, two soldiers approached them,

"Cargo check! Please display your cargo!" one of them hailed.

 

@,

 

 As the enemy was withdrawing, the Ponssians made didn't hesitate to send personnel to aid their wounded. The entire army (even those concealed behind the ridge) was ordered to move into full view of the enemy to look more intimidating.The artillery bombardment though, curiously stopped as soon as the enemy withdrew and no cavalry charge was sent to mop up the retreating  forces as usually done. A single hussar, mounted and carrying a white flag was sent after the retreating enemy to hail its commander.

[CrimsonWeb 786]

Scriba tilted her head as she walked forward, amazed at how much of a difference she had seen form the far out fields and the train, to were she was now. Based on the way they were going, she guessed that they were heading right to the leader of this nation, but she thought it rediculis that they would need such a big house. She thought back to embers, Whos house was almost smaller then most, as he traveled most of the time, and lived humbly despite having all the power to change whatever whenever, which was why he was so highly respected. "How can you respect someone who lives in this kinda place?" she mumbled under her breath before arriving at the door.

 

@@Lordav,

Edited December 1, 2015 by CrimsonWeb

[The Pixelated Pony 883]

@@The Pixelated Pony,

 

The captain face softens slightly. "I am sorry to hear that your home has going though such hardships. We are from Skerghaven. It is also a collection of islands. But I am sorry, I have not herd of Woodborough. But if you are surcharging for a places for aid, I think I could help. I am called Captain Trench Club. I am one of the pirate kings head fleet Captains.  We have gotten word that we should look for places and ways to make contact and arrange tried roots. As well as make allies. If you could lead us to Woodborough you could arrange a meeting with your leader."

" it's a pleasure to meet you sire! " the messenger said saluting and giving Trench Club a map of the surrounding area. "Just make your way to field B7 from there its smooth sailing to Woodburough Dockyard. Sadly I must leave or else the navy may take your ship's décor as a sign of hostility and well... Sink... You and we don't want that now do we? " he said walking outside and taking to the skies "cherio I'll be back before you know it!"

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav,

 

 The pirate king put on a friendly smile before walking up to the guards. "Good day, gents. Before we ya started pokin' with the rest of the crates. Let me ask ya somin'. If ye haven't heard of me I am the pirate king. I'm just coming back from a meeting with your king, in fact. We heard ya land were in a big need of sustenance. Witch was the reason why I brought over the man'o wars, not just to catch your attention, but carrying crates filled with tons of food for just one gold per crate.

 

I didn't have to charge for them but greed is a pirates fate." He chuckled before getting closer to the guards to speak in a low voice. "Tell me lads. I'm sure its very fulfilling serving your land, its king along with its citizens. It really makes you proud, I can tell. But, I'm sure you all still have to make a living. Feed and take care of your families. Keeping a roof over their heads. 

 

Maybe you want a little something 'extra' so you can really give them the best life. Like I said before I don't reel need that gold. From what I remember that was about 400 crates per man'o war and 200 from my ship, should have rack up a pretty good amount of gold.

 

If ya both give us the all clear and let us be on our way, that gold would be a fine investment to two fine guardsmen like yourselves. What do you say?"

 

@@The Pixelated Pony,

 

 Trench Club smiled and waved at the Pegasus. "Tell them we mean no harm. The décor is mainly for show. Ships give up easier when they get scared. So less blood shed. Safe flight." He said before he looked over the map. After he found a root he gave his orders to the helmsmen before going to his quarters. 

[Love Doctor Blaze 536]

@@Lordav,

 

Centurion crimson shield noticed the lag of movement from the approaching ship, and was about to go investigate, but the co-president halted him. The co-president spoke up with a loud voice so that the unidentified ship could hear them. "YOU ARE ENTERING THE TERRITORY OF DU. ANY HOSTILE ACTIONS WILL RESULT IN A PERMANENTLY DAMAGED RELATIONSHIP" Shouted Bright scale, hoping that the fleet isn't coming here for war

[Gatekeeper Giggle 2,902]

"Thank-you and good luck to you and your country in whatever you are currently doing. " Derby shook Blue flare's hoof to seal the agreement. She bowed and went back to stareing at the sea waiting for something to happen other than ponies worrying about water shortages

Blue Flare happily shook Derby's hoof, glad that she, as well as her entire nation, had just made a new friend. She returned Derby's bow with a polite bow of her own. "Thank you so much, Derby. I'm sure this will be the start of a long and prosperous friendship between our nations. If you'll excuse me, I must return to the castle to share this good news with our leader."

[Once In A Blue Moon 894]

The expeditionary force lay at anchor off the coast of the newly named 'Zenith', soldiers and supplies going ashore en-mass whilst the warships prowled the coastline, driving away any other ships they met. The unloading process went on for days, with the soldiers and marines ashore assembling a prefabricated wooden fort and several cement-filled hulks that had been towed South being sunk and used to construct a makeshift harbour. A few civilians had been brought as well, mostly farmers with a few specialists such as geographers, geologists, engineers and shipwrights for good measure, but the bulk of the force was the 5th Regiment of Hoof and two hundred marines which, along with three fifth-rates, were to be its permanent garrison.

 

@@The Pixelated Pony.

 

Meanwhile, HMS Dauntless under Captain Quick Breeze steamed towards the coast of Woodborough - the dense forest giving the still-distant islands a sense of mystery and foreboding.

[Wicked Funky 2,955]

@@Lordav,

 

The herd safely rested on the hill some distance from the frigid battlefield, Trying to recollect themselves after the fight. They had now seen the true power of the enemy, And wasn't sure if this battle could ever be won.

 

A single enemy troop was approaching, Nonetheless the whole herd readied themselves to defend the wounded. It was soon apparent that the single soldier was carrying a white flag, They weren't sure what to make from this but the lonely hussar seemingly had no intentions of causing damage. 

 

They let the lone rider approach, But warily, They all raised their shield creating a barrier between the two. 

[Lordav 3,426]

@@CrimsonWeb,

 

After being escorted through many lxurious halls of the palace, decorated by paintings, crystal chandeliers and placed in a waiting room. A servant approached the mare. 

"The Minister will see you now." he said and gestured towards a large double door. In it sat an elderly stallion, with a grey coat and beard, dressed in a millitaristic uniform, this was the MInister of Foreign Affairs, also a high ranking general in the army.

 

@@Gloomfury,

 

One of the guards seemed to consider the pirates 'unholy' offer but before he could react, the other stepped in,

"Attemp at bribery of soldiers of his Highnesses Royal Army is a capital offence! Now, open that crate or be brough in!" he spoke on a slightly provocative tone as he but his left hoof on his baton, strapped to his belt. The other guard plaed along immidiately.

 

@,  

 

There was a moment of silence, how could a being shout so strongly... was this hell? Most of the crew were in shock. The captain stepped forward and spoke in his microphone,

"This is the vessel SMS Boyant of HIs Majesty's Royal Navy! We have been directed here as a possible port to supply our near-empty wares!" he replied, trying to sound as formal and un-provocative as possible.

 

@,

 

"I come here as a messenger, instucted to discuss with your leader!" the hussar stated. His only armed with a sword, strapped on his belt, he was ordered to discuss a meeting between the general staff of the army and the leader of this... horde.

[Wicked Funky 2,955]

@@Lordav,

 

The wall of ponies didn't move an inch, They were too suspicious of the lone soldier. Elroc, Who now found himself in the middle of the herd, However was more interested in talking. They couldn't risk another fight, They would loose. He told one of the riders to signal the herd so he would be able to pass through, Once again the deep sound of the warhorn echoes through the desolate lands. The mass of ponies opened up and created an armored walkway for him, He did not approach alone though, But had two riders to each of his side. When close enough they stopped, The old stallion simply glared towards the hussar without saying a single word.

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav, ((Looks like I got two new recruits.))

 

"Well shite. Had to run into the straight-laces." The pirate king then quickly and with enough strength, bashed the two guards heads together hard enough to knock them out.  The Minotaur  carrying the crate lowered it to the ground and tossed the two guards inside. "Sorry about the sudden guests Mr. Shaw. Just bare with them for a bit." After placing the lid on they wan back to the Wrath and placed the crate in the captain quarters.

 

 

When they had all their supplies on board The Wrath and the three man'o wars set off back to Skerghaven. 

 

 

((Hope not too OP.))

[CrimsonWeb 786]

Sapphire walked forward, glancing around as she did. She wondered if this was a show of force, or something like it, Or if they rich ponys here really did have enuff money to make more of these huge houses. She looked at the pony who had taken her in, then tilted her eyes back to the minister. "Quite a nice place you have here" She said with a grin as she set her stuff down to one side of her. @@Lordav,  

[Anneal 2,194]

@,

 

Yongxi turned back to Thorhall and tilted an ear. "Sorry for that moment of notice. It's just that...one of our officers decided to give us a bit of reinforcements to this area," he explained a bit sloppily, thinking of what to say to them. "In case those assailants somehow manage to follow your trail...we want to make sure they don't get past here."

 

He sighed. Who was he kidding? They didn't nearly have enough soldiers to effectively defend against any large, organized force, and if they could even defeat the Pulaiens effectively... "Sounds like some other massive tribe...but from where?" he muttered. "We need more information on this later."

 

Zhengshi (正氏市)

 

Soon enough, the rest of Serylda's army would have separated into smaller, more manageable groups...at least for the natives. Zhengshi was a city further inland in a flatter area, and much more fortified than the towns and cities (if they can even be called cities) in the northeastern end.

 

"Looks like they're here..." Colonel Gaozhi muttered; she was a light red unicorn mare in her early thirties with an attractive look, and commanded her larger force of two thousand soldiers, more organized and prepared than the more northern counterparts. The improved brick walls had mortars equally spaced, along with a few crossbow turrets. The Liao had been improving their ranged crossbows and bows for centuries; it was no surprise, then, that they were also experienced archers as they were crafters.

 

"Alright, let's do this," she muttered to her assistant colonel before raising the dynasty flag and sliding down. Then, one of the translators shouted: "Anyone by the name of Lady Serylda, you may enter the walls with some of your guards! We will like to talk about your...situation!"

[Lordav 3,426]

@,

 

"His grace, Duke General Trottshoof of Hamberg has two messages for you." the hussar reports. "The first one is, collect your dead and wounded, we will not fire upon you. He also awaits you on the south-west ridge for negotiations, you can bring a maximum of 6 guards." he points towards a ridge where the general was sitting at a small table, with four cuirassiers standing by him.

 

@@Gloomfury,

 

It was 40 minutes after the ships departed that the guards abseance was noted when they had not returned for the roll call.

"Sir, Dock 2 guards 113 and 114 are not present." the east dock seargent reported to the Dockmaster.

"Are you saying we have deserters?" he looked at the seargent.

"Negative, sir. It was Private Louis and Kurt. They are loyal to the army since signing up, I fear something else happened to them. ike the foreigners."

"I knew it, outsiders are trouble. Get the SMS Runner ready for pursuit! Now!"

"Sir... it just docked..."

"I know and its ready to sail again. Now!"

"Yes sir!"

The 38-gun frigate soon left the harbour, following the course taken by the foreign ships, by now they had at least an 80 minute advantage but the steam engine should be able to catch up to them.

 

@@CrimsonWeb,

 

"Miss... Scriba I recall you stated your name is. I hear that you claim that you come from a nation beyond the Northern peaks and come here with a... proposal? ... If what you say is true, I assure you that you have my complete attention.... Now, please" He gestured towards a cushioned arm-chair in front of his desk.

[Wicked Funky 2,955]

@@Lordav,

 

Elroc looked over at the ridge in distrust, Six guards weren't exactly many. He looked over to his second in command, "Retrieve the wounded and dead, What's left of them..." he vaguely said and the mare started to organize the retrieval. He once again looked to the hussar, "Very well, We'll see..." he kept his vague and meek tone. A large part of the herd were moving back towards the battlefield, Elroc simply stopped six of them and ordered them to escort him to the location. The group slowly approached, His old legs weren't as able as they used to be and distress of the situation had him slightly trembling. Pandora was still sitting on his back, Regal as ever the bird was on a constant lookout. The struggling stallion was offered help by one of his companions, But he refused and pushed on I may be old, But i'm not that old...

 

The group had arrived and was now facing the one responsible of the thousands of deaths this frigid battle had resulted in. Three weary guards to each of his side wasn't enough to keep him safe, But at least allowed him to feel slightly more safe. He stepped forward, "I've been called?".

 

@,

 

Serylda was in a discussion with some of her more famed warriors, they were trying to judge the enemy by their strengths and flaws visible. If these ponies were to attack them, Would they be able to defend themselves? The discussion was abruptly interrupted by the message for Serylda. After exchanging a few words the group decided to oblige, And that it would be for the better that all of them stayed together just in case. And at that Serylda and her four most famed soldiers approached the gate (OOC: I suppose?), One thing quickly became apparent to them, These ponies were very fond of archery. It wasn't a tactic that was well seen on by most in their home but rather seen as cowardly and weak, Serylda herself knew it was effective but she herself would never touch a bow. Seryldas guards had their eyes peeked on all of the turrets stationed on the wall as the gates were opened and they were able to enter. They were all heavily armored, A lot larger then a normal pony, Had huge weapons and were scarred and torn from battles, but they didn't even think about themselves as intimidating even for a second. This was the standard in Pruine, And there were brutes many times worse then them back there.

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav,

 

 The pirate king was in his quarters, placing his cutlass on along with his knife, dagger and other weapons.  Without his weapons he almost felt necked, so to speak. He went over to the crate and opened the top. "Welcome aboard the Wrath, Mr. Shaw."  He said taking his hoof and pulled him out. As for the other two two of his men just kicked over the crate and dragged them out and chained them to two chairs.  "What do you want us to do them them captain?" Asked one of his men.  "Watch over them. When we're out of Ponssia waters then we'll have a little talk with them."

 

Just then one of the captains look outs burst though his door. "Captain! Steam cog on out tail and gaining." The pirate king made a face. "They must really care about their people to send a ship out so fast. That or they don't want ward getting out. This'll really take a chunk out of their pride." He rubbed his chin. He had to think of something that'll keep them from getting caught. With his man'o wars and his flag ship he was surer he could take out the ship. But it will take a heaver toll out on his side.  He would lose at least his flag ship and maybe one man'o war. 

 

He didn't really know what kind of fire power they had or how strong their armor is. 

 

So to avoid finding out the hard way, he had to think of something quick. "Mr. Shaw, follow me." He said, heading back on deck.  He took out his spyglass and look towards the clad could be seen making a bee line right for them.  He grit his teeth as he went over to the helm, placing a hoof on it.  He looked out for anything or anywhere he could tell the ships to go. The only thing he could see was open sea with some land fare from where  they're going. But he could also see a large cloud of fog.

 

He sighed. "May the Lady watch over us." Before staring into the fog he reached into his pocket and pulled out a hoof full of silver and geld  coins and tossed them overboard as an offering to the Bearded Lady.  Soon after her steered this ship into the thick fog with the man'o wars soon following.

[CrimsonWeb 786]

Scriba smiled as sat down, she looked over at the diplomat, and nodded. "Indeed, Im somewhat of a diplomat myself, but somewhat an adventurer" She said, grabbing her book and looking back up "My leader, Embers, Sent me out to find other nations, one in each direction, and as far as I know, My group was the only one who make it...Erm" Scriba glanced at the ground, before returning her eyes "Im the only one who made it, I sent back 2 members of my group to go notify our government" 

 

"So, About the trading, Weve been a very secluded nation, and have many, many resources, anything you need?"

 

@@Lordav, 

[Lordav 3,426]

@,

 

(No, I dont know whay I keep having them bring wine along...)

General Trottshoof sat at the table witha bottle of white wine and two glasses, as well as a considerable number of maps of the area. As the old stallion approached he gestured towards the chair,

"Please..... wine?" he asked as he poured the glasses full.

"I must say, you have exceeded my expectations, expected you to run right away... but you didn't... Good battle. Thats quite considerable for a prim...."

He stopped there,

"For one so backward. After the recebt... unfortunate bloodshed, I am sure you are also willing to end this... petty conflict."

 

@@Gloomfury,

 

When the frigate reached the fog, there were no ships to be seen or traced. They patrolled the area before heading back home.

The king had just come from a secret telegraphic discussion when the news arrived.

"I greet them into my home... and the abduct my subjects? My soldiers!" He was angry but treid to stay calm in front of his general staff, "We will have to return the favor, I presume."

 

@@CrimsonWeb,

 

"well... firstly.... we would be more interested to learning about this new 'land' of yours and what it could offer us. We have our needs... and goods, yet me must know who we're dealing with.... especiallly after a recent contact...." 

[CrimsonWeb 786]

Scriba nodded. "The land I come from has quite a bit of stuff to offer, Plenty of food, and well as iron, and a decent amount of everything else" She said, tilting her head "Were surrounded by land on all sides, and as you probably know, theres the huge natural wall between our two nations" Scriba glanced back down at her book. " You have about the same technology as us, and im sure we would be willing to work together for more breakthroughs" 

@@Lordav, 

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav,

 

A bit later one of the look outs called the the captain saying they lost sight of the clad. After relaxing a little he handed the helm to someone else and asked two of his pegasie crew mates to help clear the fog a little so they could see. Before heading back to his quarters he paused at Shaw. "Mr. Shaw, look for my quartermaster, Crowbar. You'll know when you see him. He'll be the one with a crowbar on his back and sunglasses. He'll show you the ropes. Now I gotta go have a talk with your fellow countrymen." 

 

Then he was off. When he got back to his room he took his seat and sat in front of the two guards and waited for them to wake up.

[Wicked Funky 2,955]

@,

 

Elroc sat down and looked at the liquid in front of him distrustfully, He ignored the drink and turned his eyes towards the stallion infront of him "Good battle?..." He muttered. "Release our captured and depart from our land, And the conflict is solved. We own this land, And we won't be marked my defiance." His tired eyes fell onto the glass with the sickly blood red liquid in it once again.

[Lordav 3,426]

@@CrimsonWeb,

 

"This is an interesting proposal you bring, yet I think it is obvious that before we come to any conclusions, we must see this with our own eyes. If you would escort a small team of our own to draw their own conclusions.... im sure we will be more than happy to establish trade beyond the mountains."

 

@@Gloomfury,

 

The Guards eventually woke up but didn't give out a sound, they just stared coldly forward, a trace of disgust could be seen on their faces as they looked towards their kindnapper.

 

@,  

 

"Oh... no, no, no, no..." You see, I do not believe it is you who can make demands. A single signal of mine and we start all over again, this time with our full force, not just a regiment." he laughed,

"You see, I serve ponies, powerful ponies... and they don't take no for an answer... and, nomatter how much I'd dislike to just start massacring your men while their disorganized" he smiled and took a sip from his glass,"I'd have no other choice. Our demands are simple. We maintain our presence on the area we are already settled on and the land in its vicinity."

He took out a map showing the coast on which the fort was located, depiciting the demanded land.

 

 

"Now.... you seem like a reasonable stallion... I am sure that such a little patch of worthless land is not worth the loss of countless more lives...."

[Wicked Funky 2,955]

@@Lordav,

 

Elroc stared upon the map, He was nervous after what the general had said. The last thing he wanted was to start this battle all over again, And with Serylda out of the nation he couldn't call for higher authority. That awoke a thought, What would Serylda do if he was to give up this land? And what would the consequences be?

 

He gathered himself, It was him who had to deal with the situation. Elroc took a deep breath "I'm not the one ruling here either... You can keep this land until further notice. On one condition, You will release the captured." He couldn't leave them behind, And he wasn't going to.

[The Pixelated Pony 883]

The expeditionary force lay at anchor off the coast of the newly named 'Zenith', soldiers and supplies going ashore en-mass whilst the warships prowled the coastline, driving away any other ships they met. The unloading process went on for days, with the soldiers and marines ashore assembling a prefabricated wooden fort and several cement-filled hulks that had been towed South being sunk and used to construct a makeshift harbour. A few civilians had been brought as well, mostly farmers with a few specialists such as geographers, geologists, engineers and shipwrights for good measure, but the bulk of the force was the 5th Regiment of Hoof and two hundred marines which, along with three fifth-rates, were to be its permanent garrison.

 

@@The Pixelated Pony.

 

Meanwhile, HMS Dauntless under Captain Quick Breeze steamed towards the coast of Woodborough - the dense forest giving the still-distant islands a sense of mystery and foreboding.

A warning siren echoed across Woodborough signaling another attack. Bridges raised,carts stopped and warships set sail. Ponies on floating farms scattered as the two sides came closer and closer. One of the largest woodburouian ships plowed through a bridge linking two fields. When it came to defending the homeland Woodborough's navy showed no mercy.

[Gloomfury 243]

@@Lordav, 

 

The pirate got himself comfortable while he waited for them to wake up. He had a glass of wine he took from the castle in one hoof and a lit cigar in the other. "Sleep well boys?" He chuckled as he sat back in his chair. "Sorry about the headache, but ya should have just taken the gold. All we had was pony who had enough his boring life and home and wanted some adventure. But on the bright side, you boys get to join him!" He  grinned before laughing.

 

"Oh, your king must be right furious about now. Don't get me wrong, I like your people. But that little shite ya call a king ain't worth two drops of piss. Probably spent all his life with a silver spoon in his spoiled gob. I asked if we could give your people to the choice to leave if they want. But he flat out forbid it. He treats the people he rules like his toys and he doesn't wants to share. Cause of that I wanted to help your people and not him. Sooner or late your land's gonna be forced into a bad spot. I can tell." He took a few puffs of his cigar and a sip of wine.

 

He looked at the two guards with a clam expression. "But I digress. I know you two are pretty angry. In fact I bet you boys are thinking of gutting me right now. But know, you on a ship fare a way from the closest land, filled with pirates who have most likely killed more then you two combined. But killing the king of pirates might make your deaths worth it." He place the glass of wine and cigar on his desk right before get right up to the faces and squeezed their cheeks with his hooves. 

 

"But what about the lives of your people. When I'm dead who's gonna stop every pirate in Skerghaven from attack your land. Sure you guys got better firepower. But you'll still lose a lot of lives.  An endless bombardment will see to that." He let go ans sat back in his chair. "But I am not that heartless. So I'll just tell them to try and take out the castle and a few other places. Keeping the civilians out of it." He picked up the glass of wine again and took another drink. 

 

"For now, you two are my guests. When we get to Skerghaven I'll show you two and Mr. Shaw around. After that. we'll see what your fates will be." He took another sip. 

 

@, 

 

After a few hours Captains Trench Clubs Ship, the Yemaya,  made its way to Woodborough Flying the Captains flag along with a white flag to show they meant no harm.

Edited December 8, 2015 by Gloomfury