Vinzent Zeppelin

[quote name='D34th' timestamp='1339478752' post='2981302'] This doesn't change the fact that NoV, as others alliances full of cowards, disbanded when faced superior odds, this shows how strong that community was... [/quote] [quote name='JWConner' timestamp='1339480508' post='2981334'] The fact that NoV had to reassemble as a different alliance tells anyone with half a brain that they're nowhere near as strong as TPF is. Sure, their NS is a whole 600k larger (however avg is 8k lower) but NS size isn't the whole story. The fact that they folded once and ran tells us the only story that's relevant. We've faced plenty of scrutiny over the years and we're still standing. That's all that matters. [/quote] This argument that the Norden Verein tucked tail and folded because of some lack of conviction or weakness is one I cannot let pass without comment. [ooc]I'm fairly certain that the Norden Verein's disbandment had less to do with statistics and more to do with the fact that, for me and likely quite a few others, a game wherein an entire alliance was subjected to violations of privacy, vicious slander, and real-world persecution was no longer a game in which I wanted to participate.[/ooc] Also, JWConner, you're the only one I've ever seen to argue that our community reuniting under the flag of Nordreich was somehow indicative of a flaw. As fondly as I remember my time in NoV, it was always just a shade of Nordreich, and I still view our Reunion as our brotherhood's crowning triumph. Edit: Ironically enough, Slayer99 and his colleagues can probably take some credit for that happening, too. It was during that trying period when the Norden Verein, the Sons of Muspel, and a couple other similarly estranged groups realized the need for reconciliation in the face of destruction. In a way, that dark episode allowed us all to shrug off the baggage of the past and lay the groundwork for a legitimate reformation of the Reich when the time was right.

First of all: Congratulations on the anniversary, TPF. It's been a while. Second: I apologize in advance for the minor thread derailment. Third: Hello, Slayer. It's been a while. Remember me? Let's chat. [quote name='Slayer99' timestamp='1339211317' post='2979668'] NoV: I DO regret taking out NoV.[/quote] When I read this, I was hopeful that you were admitting that the pretext for that war was a farce, that you merely wanted to give Norden Verein a good beating, and that you were apologizing for the disgraceful and distasteful way in which it was done. War for its own sake based on a flimsy [i]casus belli[/i] is a scenario that's played out many times throughout this world's history; I can't begrudge you for that. You played politics and won. [ooc]... But then I read the rest of it and realized you're [i]not[/i] apologizing. You claim you regret the war, but in the next breath defend your reasons for doing so -- and, more specifically, the methods you used in obtaining the "evidence" to support those reasons. I'll make it clear that at this point, I couldn't care one way or the other that you were a driving force behind the Norden Verein's destruction, or even that you had no real in-character grievance against us. Nordreich presently is on good terms with several of the parties who were involved in the other side of [i]Fall Helsing[/i]. What I do care about is the gigantic steaming heap you smeared on the collective face of CN when bringing that war to fruition. Your official [i]casus belli[/i] couldn't even be posted on the OWF because of the egregious violations of privacy and out-of-character nature of it all. (And what information you did share required such absurd stretches of reasoning that it would have been more credible for you to just say "take our word for it" and leave it at that. To wit: Screenshots of months-old membership applications which were long since rejected, assorted joke images from our spam board, and goofy photos of Martens. One would think an alliance so notoriously welcoming of white supremacist elements would have had more to show for it.) Digging up information on us and turning it over to the SPLC? [i]Seriously?[/i] As amusing as it might be to have another [i]Aftenposten[/i] episode, the idea that you would go to such lengths in your misguided crusade is a sign that you have trouble treating this game as a game, and are probably better off not playing. (Aside: Ever considered a second career in tabloid journalism?) Since you've long since retired, and thus have nothing to gain at this point by standing your ground that we're nothing more than a white supremacist recruitment front, I can only conclude that you're either genuinely deluded, obstinate, or both. If that's the case, you will not hear me joining the chorus cheering your reappearance here, and I'm not the type to hold grudges. This boogeyman of "neo-Nazis" using this game as a vehicle for recruitment isn't fooling anyone, and the time when you could in turn use CN as a platform for your own agenda, as a battleground in your holy war against the white supremacists lurking in every dark corner, has long passed.[/ooc] Shortly after our Reunion three years ago, we included in our [url=http://cybernations.nordreich.eu/viewtopic.php?f=12&t=846]charter[/url] a provision prohibiting us from the practice of "indefinite ZI" against an opponent. There is one and only one reason which would cause me to rescind it, and no bonus points for guessing what it is.

[center][img]http://culture.nordreich.eu/var/resizes/Other-Pictures/Official%20Announcement.png[/img][/center] During the past couple of weeks, several changes have occurred within Nordreich's ranks, particularly in the Reichsregierung. [b]bandnerd[/b] is replacing Weiss von Toten as our Foreign Minister with [b]Daisy[/b] as his deputy, and [b]Redneck[/b] has officially taken up the mantle of Reichsmarschall. Bandnerd and Daisy are putting together what looks to be a promising diplomatic corps, with up-and-coming and old-blood members alike -- you'll probably be seeing them soon if you haven't already. Also, rumours hold that a certain other individual, known in some circles as "kingzog" may be coming out of retirement to join those ranks as well, time [ooc]and successful ban appeal[/ooc] allowing. In the wake of the exodus we faced a couple of months ago, a void was created, as the Kronprinz, the one named as successor to the Kaiser, was left unnamed. Today I am pleased to announce that this is no longer the case. Among the capable individuals in our upper echelons, one truly struck me as having the experience and aptitude to be crowned [i]Kronprinz des Reiches[/i], and to thereby eventually lead Nordreich as its Kaiser. Despite having been in retirement for the past few seasons, he's been with us since even before I was a lowly recruit, having been present for the formation of our brotherhood almost six years ago -- please welcome [b]Striderwannabe[/b] as the new Crown Prince of the Reich. Now, without tarrying further, here I present the updated complete government roster of Nordreich: [center][img]http://www.nordreich.eu/norgov.jpg[/img][/center] Additionally, please join me in congratulating the following individuals, whom have been chosen by the Reichsregierung to be promoted in rank, in accordance with the Nordreich Nobility Promotion Protocol: [quote][img]http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/5299/herzogwhite.png[/img] Redneck [img]http://img818.imageshack.us/img818/2015/markgrafwhite.png[/img] Darroch Oro Ibah Aozpi Snerdly Sheraztariq [img]http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/8392/furstwhite.png[/img] Kaiser Hanssen blockers Hastein Daisy Judson Hrant Dink Souiginto Christoph38 Wotansvolk pilate Kankou Patrick Macedonian Eidolonian Vince Sixx Kaiser Kael Paramix Invictus Cousins U235Al Gavin Scott I Ty the Great [img]http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/6977/ritterwhite.png[/img] STORM RIDERS CptDoom Signed this the 3rd day of June, 2012 His Imperial Majesty [b]Vinzent von Zeppelin[/b], Kaiser von Nordreich Minister of the Interior, [b]Gottrich Northeim[/b] Reichsbanker, [b]PuliSher[/b] Minister of Communications, [b]Latexi[/b] Minister of Foreign Affairs, [b]Bandnerd[/b][/quote]

[center][img]http://culture.nordreich.eu/var/resizes/Other-Pictures/Official%20Announcement.png[/img][/center] Ladies and gentlemen, today marks an end and a beginning. After 870 days -- nearly two and a half years -- His Infernal Majesty Nemhauser has retired from his position as the Kaiser of Nordreich, leaving a legacy of being the longest-standing head of state Nordreich has yet known. During his reign, the brotherhood that is our alliance saw remarkable stability and growth; his hand patiently guiding Nordreich's progress even through circumstances which would give pause to lesser men. To Nemhauser, on behalf of the citizenry of Nordreich, I give my thanks for the steadfastness, patience, and sagacity you have shown so consistently during your reign, and wish you all the best in your retirement. Per Nordreich law and tradition, upon a Kaiser's retirement, abdication, or death, the Kronprinz ascends -- and is immediately faced with one important decision: Choosing his heir. It is to this end that, as my first act as Kaiser of Nordreich, I name [b]pd73bassman[/b] as the next [i]Kronprinz des Reiches[/i]. Bassman has demonstrated a keen political acumen and has been instrumental in many of the strides we have made over the course of the previous year during his tenure as our Minister of Foreign Affairs, so I trust he will continue to represent Nordreich admirably as its heir apparent. There are two other changes to be addressed: JuQu and Vladimir Nikanor, Minister of Communications and Minister of Education, respectively, have stepped down from their positions in the Cabinet owing to personal [ooc](RL)[/ooc] matters. Thus, [b]Latexi[/b] has stepped up to take on the mantle of Minister of Communications, and [b]Cpt Becker[/b] will be replacing Nikanor as the Minister of Education. My congratulations go to these individuals; they will certainly prove to be an asset to the Reichsregierung. Regards, His Imperial Majesty Vinzent von Zeppelin, [i]Kaiser von Nordreich[/i] P.S.: I expect Cuba will provide an updated government roster graphic for your viewing pleasure after a sufficient amount of waterboarding.

Voted. Also Nordreich.

[quote name='Charles the Great' timestamp='1323974346' post='2878984'] I agree RIA is a horrible AA. /under his breath No surprise NOR accepts deserters just look at their leader. (I support NOR as an ally of an ally but facts are facts). [/quote] If you have something to say about His Majesty Nemhauser, say it.

[center][img]http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m7/emperorb/Pictures%20and%20Avatars/flagbanner.jpg[/img] [img]http://static.desktopnexus.com/thumbnails/596917-bigthumbnail.jpg[/img] [size="5"]Joint Decree from Nordreich and the League of Small Superpowers[/size] [size="3"]Fall Hammerschlag[/size][/center] It is with much trepidation that we make this announcement. In a shocking and appalling move, one which was as much of a surprise to us as it was to any other, the Random Insanity Alliance declared war on our good allies in Valhalla. Not only did this throw a wrench in our plan of assisting the Federation of Armed Nations in their righteous crusade against the New Pacific Order, but the League of Small Superpowers, bound by the secret, 30-minute mutual-defense treaty they had signed with Valhalla precisely 25 minutes prior to this attack, is obligated to defend them as well. With that being said, it is with much regret* that the united forces of Nordreich and the League of Small Superpowers declare war on the Random Insanity Alliance. * Just kidding. [b]Signed for Nordreich,[/b] His Imperial Excellency [b]Vinzent von Zeppelin[/b], [i]Kronprinz des Reiches[/i] [b]SF Austin[/b], [i]Reichsgeneral der Wehrmacht[/i] and Standard-Bearer of the Volk [b]pd73bassman[/b], Minister of Foreign Affairs [b]Arod Johns[/b], Minister of the Interior [b]PuliSher[/b], Reichsbanker [b]Vladimir Nikanor[/b], Minister of Education [b]Signed for the League of Small Superpowers,[/b] Triumvir [b]andyt2k[/b] of Veritas, Truth is Power Triumvir [b]Amossio[/b], Bringer of Death Triumvir [b]P8ntballerdude[/b], Striker of Fear

Consider adding two categories: "Biggest 30-day strength gain" and "biggest 30-day strength loss". No idea who holds the record for either.

Winter is coming, lines being drawn and so forth.

[quote name='Methrage' timestamp='1316322739' post='2802858'] Fur isn't bad for nations who gain a few thousand miles of land from it, especially those who also have Agriculture Development Program. If someone has 1,000 land in natural growth, that is 2,000 land they gain from furs. If they have Agriculture Development program that is an extra 1,000 citizens they get from the extra land alone, as well as getting +$3.50 income and not having to ever worry about their population density. Silver, gems, wine and other resources that don't get better with time are more at risk. I imagine we'll also see a lot less sugar and spice as more people drop those resources and go for better bonus resources than fast food when people can customize their trades. Spice/sugar aren't good at all unless you get all the trades for fast food, but even that is just +2 happiness and causes you to end up not being able to get many of the other bonus resources. With silver, gems and wine it requires to many resources to get AP/FJ, so you need to miss out on a lot of other important bonus resources if you want to use enough trades on that as well. Fur on its own is kind of like fish if a nation is old enough, in that it can be worth having even if you're not using it for any bonus resources. [/quote] In terms of income and population increases, furs doesn't quite compare to fish, but good eye for pointing that out. The population-boosting resources are actually pretty good for large nations -- and any nation with 3000 purchased land is likely to have infrastructure to match. Above 4000 infrastructure or so, sugars will provide more than 1000 citizens, but it's mostly useful for fast food, which is full of population-boosting resources anyway. I can't be bothered to do the math at the moment, but for large nations not purchasing infrastructure much, a two-bonus set: beer, fast food, fish, gems, silver and uranium, seems optimal. (Wine is a prime candidate if you don't need uranium for some reason.)

[quote name='gonftw' timestamp='1314622642' post='2790466'] Your original ODP treaty with Nordreich was literally announced seconds after cancelling on GOD + CSN. The curtain you attempt to pull over your poorly constructed plans is becoming increasingly transparent. [/quote] So you're MHA's "next top diplo"?

Excellent work. We'll race you to six million.

Not necessarily; we don't exactly skimp on the war-chests. Higher infrastructure could just as easily mean nations are spending money on infrastructure more freely rather than saving it. Honestly, the outcome would depend on the definition of "winning" you use. If winning means causing more damage to the opponent than one receives in a set period of time, I would bet on us, by virtue of having a more developed top-end, a slight nuclear superiority in the middle-lower ranges, and having a higher tech-to-infra ratio. (In war, infrastructure is far more perishable than technology.) If, on the other hand, winning means making the other alliance "cry uncle" first, it really depends on who first points out the absurdity of our alliances being at war just because the OWF thought it would be fun to watch.

[quote name='Kaiser Wilhelm I' timestamp='1312989311' post='2776655'] That would be because I told Vinzent beforehand. [i]Shh! Your welcome...[/i] [/quote] It was something of a surprise, I'll give you that. [ooc]Good luck on your appeal.[/ooc]

[quote name='Ashoka the Great' timestamp='1312557832' post='2772641'] Small black text interspersed with large red text [/quote] My esteemed colleague brings up something I've been wondering as well, so the following is addressed to Xiphosis personally: To "defect" is generally understood to sever one's loyalty to a particular cause or organization in favour of an opposing one. What led you to believe that we were "defecting", and from whom? If at some point in the past we made a commitment to be on the same nebulously-defined "side" as GOD and the Superfriends (which included the New Polar Order, according to your earlier misestimations), I must have missed it. We entered the war to assist Nueva Vida, something which should have been a surprise to nobody. This leads me to my next point: Around the beginning of this year, relations between Nordreich and Sparta were at a high point, and during this time the idea of a treaty between us was being discussed. However, as the Sparta representatives told us, the main sticking point was that you in particular objected to it, and that was the end of that. Do you dispute this? If not, would you say that counting on an alliance to be on your side during a global war, while at the same time frustrating that alliance's prospects of signing a treaty with your ally, is somewhat counter-productive?

For the record, of the alliances in Superfriends, which corresponds to which superhero? And to the respective alliances, why that superhero in particular? Also, if you were to sit down and discuss an issue over drinks with either myself, Nemhauser, or pd73bassman, whom would you choose and why?

Why is this in Alliance Announcements?

What a shocking turn of events! Let it not be said we're not a magnanimous bunch.

My congratulations to the new Althing.

[quote name='Auctor' timestamp='1309998504' post='2750858'] In the course of human events, there comes a time when blah blah blah .... [/quote] Your [img]http://www.jolt-online.com/Smileys/SoLoSMiLeYS1/troll.png[/img] is showing.

[quote name='Ayatollah Bromeini' timestamp='1309971540' post='2750457'] It's literally 5 people. [/quote] Right, that's what I said. [quote] I seem to recall another German alliance who reformed, despite it's previous incarnation being held in disdain by most of the community, and no one gave them any trouble. It would be nice if said alliance could do the same for TGE. [/quote] Clearly we weren't disliked [i]that[/i] much, then, were we? Rhetorical. Besides, there are a few important differences here. Nordreich's Reunion: [list][*]Was planned over the course of several weeks, with the groundwork being a year or more in the making. [*]Involved many individuals who were original members, with many of those having been officers or government. [*]Occurred after we had established many key elements of a legitimate alliance: A Charter, a government, a team colour policy, members. [*]Occurred after we had extended feelers to several important parties, including those potentially inimical, and used our awareness of the political landscape to maximize our chances for success.[/list] I see none of that here -- just one person with a one-day old nation calling himself "Emperor" and claiming TGE is back.

When TGE disbanded, the resounding public sentiment varied between "it's about time" and "probably for the best". While I can understand the motivation to reform an alliance -- I certainly did my part in our own Reunion -- sometimes it's just better to realize that certain alliances are not meant to come back, and move on to greener pastures. The German Empire's entire history is coloured by corruption, nepotism, persecution of its own members, provocation, and general ineptitude. Additionally, this new "alliance" consists of yourself and four nations that have lingered on the AA after the original disbanded for whatever reason. Until/unless His Majesty Nemhauser declares otherwise, we do not recognize TGE as a legitimate political entity; if you wish to change that, come talk to us -- but I can't make any promises. Good luck.

Oh. And here I had my hopes up.

I like this.

It's true, Kingzog is terrible when it comes to graphics work.