View Full Version : Noble Sons II- Price for Peace [Concluded]
Yeah, about that, almost all your army is now sushi... awkward...
:san_undecided:
We do not understand your peoples, does respect only shine in our private meetings?
We wish not to talk to you any longer
What wrong have we brought forth against you? To hate us so much?
Askthepizzaguy
05-05-2009, 23:10
What is the status of relations between the Exiles and Aresea? I am confused. Are you friends, enemies, or neutral?
Greyblades
05-05-2009, 23:11
I sneaked attacked him and now he's pretty much doomed. Oh well thats the nature of this game.
Beefy187
05-06-2009, 01:24
I sent the detail of the battle to White_eyes, so I was waiting for his post :bow:
Greyblades
05-06-2009, 23:45
Its been about day...
Beefy187
05-07-2009, 00:33
Almost a week actually :sweatdrop:
Guess I'll do mine first.
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 00:34
:shrug: Like I said if you want I can do the others. I have time. :bow:
Beefy187
05-07-2009, 00:50
:shrug: Like I said if you want I can do the others. I have time. :bow:
I can do it. Unless you don't want bad grammers and cheesey jokes :beam:
I might however, ask you some on Saturday.. Or I can just finish the night before Saturday and hope Saturday is a day phase..
Fleets sails. Couple from the North, couple from the south.
Both looking for the rich lands of Decapodia. Hungry for its wealth.
The fleet on the north, ordered by Greyblades swiftly assimilated the North island while the men from Buranda assimilated the South island.
The people who had the same dynasty and the religion now had to bow down to those from completely different culture...
...................................................................................................
Now I'm waiting for one pm. Two more write ups then this long night is finally over
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 00:55
I can do it. Unless you don't want bad grammers and cheesey jokes :beam:
Oh we would never complain about that. :angel:
Huh it seems that I wasnt attacked last night after all.
Beefy187
05-07-2009, 01:02
I can do it. Unless you don't want bad grammers and cheesey jokes :beam:
Oh we would never complain about that. :angel:
Huh it seems that I wasnt attacked last night after all.
Maybe :juggle2:
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 01:08
Oh wait was that the one white eyes was supposed to do?
Beefy187
05-07-2009, 01:43
Oh wait was that the one white eyes was supposed to do?
Or it could be the second one I'm going to do. Just waiting for the Pms.
Or could it be White_eyes... Oh the drama!
EDIT: Got the pm back. But I do have to study a bit. So I'll be back in a hour or two to do the write up
Beefy187
05-07-2009, 04:06
Island of the exiles, Late Spring 5BB
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/owl1half.jpg
The honored helms left behind were excited for the enemy to come. The plan of pure genious.. Who would've thought of it?
When the captain saw two flags, waving on the incoming fleet of boats, he grinned.
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/beefdomflaghalf-1.jpg https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/consulflagsmall-1.jpg
"Ah so it was Beefdom and the puny consulates who wanted to take our land. Well.. Come on then!! Come and get it!!"
..............................................................................................
"You sure King Yoyoma is in the right mind? I mean.. I heard Greyblades bragging... 'Our island is now a fortress!! Mwahahaha' You sure this is a good idea?"
"Well.. Heres the orders from King Yoyoma.." said the captain in charge, opening the scroll. "It says.. 'We are really just annoying the exiles. Nothing more. Do not invade. Just shoot some artilary or two from a safe location to bombard their coastal city.' Well you heard the men.. Lets start this party!!"
.............................................................................................
Honored helm squad was dissapointed when the fleet kept sailing instead of coming towards the island. Then he was panicked when he saw firey balls coming to his general directions.
"Take cover!!!"
Coastal cities bombarded. Few of the ports destroyed
................................................................................................
Coast of the Hungry Hordes territory- when the exiles Island were bombarded
Luckily the "navy".... well.. its more like a fleet of fishing boat... of the exiles were safe. Infact they were just passing by the Royal navy of the Khanates.
"So you guys expect us to defend your land while you guys sail of to who knows where?" the khanate captain said.
"Thats the plan my friend!! God Speed!!"
"Yea what ever.. Our navy should be able to defeat anyone"
...............................................................................................
Two hours after they passed the Royal navy. Exiles landed on the..... Hungry Hordes territory. Capturing their land and fortifying. Luckily they weren't nasty like the invaders from the Kingdom of Greater Reenk and Lesser Roink. No citizens were harmed.
C14 and C15 are now under the Exiles Control
..............................................................................................
The combined navy of Beefdom and the Consulate met the Royal fleet of Khanate at D8. As the Khaan knew that this was headed for their home, thanks to the threat made by King Yoyoma, they immediately prepared to fight.
Beefdom and Consulate sailors initially prepared for the battle. But after 20 minitues of fighting the one of the best navy in the region, they thought it is far better to make a landing on the consulate land and move via land while they hold the hostile navy off.
Most of the army were safe but 30 percent of the allied ships are now destroyed. The rest hurried back to the port of the Consulate.
.............................................................................................
E,F 14. Hungry Hordes Territory. Summer- 5BB
The allied forces finally reached the Hungry Hordes territory, after a bit of force marching. The scouts told them that the Hungry Hordes army are on the way, however it will take a while. The allied forces easily cracked through the boarder guards. Capturing a few, killing those who fought till the last breath. Then couple men on horses delivered the head of those who were slained to the port of the Consulate. They immediately understood the joke. And catapulted the heads in to the exiles territory... Just to annoy them.
The officers caught in this campeign were noodled to death first. Then packed in the pretty box and sent to the Khaan. With the message saying "Sorry, no Credit or CODs"
.................................................................................................... ....
The Holy Theocracy of the shadowbull. Summer-5BB
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/bullflagsmall.jpg
In the theocracy who were celebrating the completion of constructing the Great wall of the Shadow bulls, has been hearing some strange rumours. Mainly on how Roy the mad is not mad.. Infact very sane. and that he is merely an out of work actor, posing as a religious wacko, in order to try and get over the fact that nobody would ever hire him otherwise to play a major role. His entire previous career was in small pupetry stages, doing commercials for fruit-of-the-loon medieval leggings, and some anti itch creams.
................................................................................
Again the leaders were invited to the meeting by the Sacred Tribes of the Holy mountain. No one denied it except those who were dead. Beefy didn't come to greet the leaders. However Yoyoma did spot Beefy, talking to a young men which somewhat resembles King Reenk.
.................................................................................
I think thats it. Pm me for the request to do some epic cover ups.
Otherwise, please start Day 6 :bow:
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 04:19
vote: Greyblades
For this knife in our backs, we willingly join the Chee-had against you, treacherous veggie-lovers. As for the other Noble Sons of the realm, Pepperono is starting to feel like he is talking to himself. Ah well, I make for interesting conversation anyway.
-Pepperono
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 11:19
"Delightful, I would so love to trade witticisms and threats with you but right now i have better things to do."
OOC: Could we have all the writeups put into a single post please? And I need instrucions for the next map.
Beefy187
05-07-2009, 11:51
Time for a summery thread I guess
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 13:19
Time for a summery thread I guess
PLEASE? It's bad enough I can't find Chaotix's writeups in his game anymore...
Beefy187
05-07-2009, 13:20
Pretty sure its done.
If you want anything added, just pm me and I'll add it in
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 13:22
"Delightful, I would so love to trade witticisms and threats with you but right now i have better things to do."
Well that better thing was a bit of a flop.
"Ahem, Now that I have your attention. We would advise that the khaanate should refrain from attacking us. If even one of your soldiers so much as breathes into my territory I will detonate the sea mine feilds surrounding your fleet that you had so kindly sailed into my waters."
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 13:26
Well that better thing was a bit of a flop.
"Ahem, Now that I have your attention. We would advise that the khaanate should refrain from attacking us. If even one of your soldiers so much as breathes into my territory I will detonate the sea mine feilds surrounding your fleet that you had so kindly sailed into my waters."
Pardon me, noble infidel, but did you not just attack us and take our territory? You should fully expect now to taste our wrath. Should I even bother issuing a warning that you must now return my lands to me and offer me tribute if you expect to keep your head? You know, the Khan gets tired of offering swine a peaceful solution to their mistakes. And so do I.
Pepperono
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 13:32
"You are in no position to be making ultimatums, Your ships are in the middle of the minefeild intended for yoyomas invasion fleet and about 3000 civillians are our hostages you have a choice: lose your best troops and be responsibe for three thousand deaths, or stand down and send me whatever iron ore and coal you have."
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 13:34
"You are in no position to be making ultimatums, Your ships are in the middle of the minefeild intended for yoyomas invasion fleet and about 3000 civillians are our hostages you have a choice: lose your best troops and be responsibe for three thousand deaths, or stand down and send me whatever iron ore and coal you have."
You think your threats mean ANYTHING to us? We are not mewling infants. Our "civilians" are all trained to defend the homelands and our soldiers are as well. Their deaths will be honorable and only inspire the rest of our troops to fight with conviction you have never seen before. Since our army, even depleted, greatly dwarfs your own, you're in no position to be making ultimatums. We do not negotiate with barbaric infidel terrorists. Did you not just witness us wipe out a trumped up terrorist nation?
Prepare to die, infidel.
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 13:40
"Pity..."
*Gestures to the guard*
"Captain send a message to General Peterson, tell him to find 5 of the khaanate militia we killed and dump their bodies into the wells."
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 13:48
Desecrating the bodies of our war dead is dishonorable, even for a nation of infidel backstabbing traitors. I know you have made many enemies. I think it is time we all rose as one and put an end to your piracy and barbarism. I pledge here and now, however... even if none of my allies back me, I will personally destroy you. The day will come when I leave this council and ride my horse into battle, and when I do, it will be the end of you. Your villainy will be repaid a thousand-fold.
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 13:52
"You want to be unreasonable? Fine if you will not listen to reason I see no need to relinquish your lands, you have a week to provide 2000 tons or iron ore or your fleet will be destroyed."
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 13:55
Did I stutter?
Why don't you pull those veggies out of your ears, or learn to read lips. I'll say it again, idiot: We do not negotiate with terrorists. We do not listen to demands. Every demand you make is an insult we can never forgive.
There is no more talk with you, there is only your death.
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 14:08
Heh I've been playing alot of godfather recently and its starting to show.
"Well if your not up for ransom what about a trade? How about you give me the blueprints to QJC's ships for your navy and lands?"
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 14:14
Someone get this man an interpreter.
I'll say it again: We do not negotiate with terrorists. We do not listen to demands. Every demand you make is an insult we can never forgive. There is no more talk with you, there is only your death.
I cannot speak any more plainly.
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 14:22
"I thought I said... Whatever, I cant say I care anymore, it is apparant that your mind has been taken over by rage and stupidity. It is clear that you have no respect for your own people and I have no reason to think you will develop any in the near future. "
"Now on to the next issue, Yoyoma! Why did you attack me if you had no intention to invade? To destroy my shipyards? What was the point? You know I have no professional navy and that I have more shipyards on the northern coast. Was it all just to annoy me, or has your stupidity become synchronized with the Khaan?"
Ah... I like the smell of burning heretics in the morning... smells like... RIGHTEOUSNESS!!!
The Sacred Order's lands are nearly purged, so I guess I can afford to do this:
CRUSADE: GREYBLADES
That's right! Now there's two crusades on your tail! MUAHAHAAHAHAHAH!
PS: Would all Beef-eating nation join the Crusade? Pretty please? :sweatdrop:
- Roy the Mad Who Is Not Sane But Is Completely Mad
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 16:25
Good thing that I now have about 2 to 3 countries armies now.
Beefy, where's the map info?
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 16:27
Ah... I like the smell of burning heretics in the morning... smells like... RIGHTEOUSNESS!!!
The Sacred Order's lands are nearly purged, so I guess I can afford to do this:
CRUSADE: GREYBLADES
That's right! Now there's two crusades on your tail! MUAHAHAAHAHAHAH!
PS: Would all Beef-eating nation join the Crusade? Pretty please? :sweatdrop:
- Roy the Mad Who Is Not Sane But Is Completely Mad
Speaking on behalf of Flaxy Baby, and the forces of Decapodia, as well as the Hungry Hordes, The Khan of Pizza Beefdom accepts this crusade on behalf of ALMIGHTY BEEFYNESS!!!
-Pepperono
I strongly encourage the Consulate's forces to join this crusade, as well as the Republic of Buranda.
And, should he see fit to bury the hatchet, King Yoyoma as well. Let us finish off these traitors of Beefness.
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 16:38
Bring it on punks! If you thought my army was overpowered before, Wait till you see it en mass! Hey I might even get multiple buildings out of this.
Buildings are no match against TEH PALADINS OF SUPREME REDEMPTION!
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 16:42
TEH PALADINS OF EXTREME RETRIBUTION are no match for 3 walking 15ft titanium Boxes
:laugh4:This is fun.
Wait haven't we allready done this?
This is completely different... this time, my Zealots are trained in the ancient art of... HEAD-BUTTING TITANIUM WALLS!
:bow:
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 17:07
And cracking their skills open from the first strike?
:book:
We have gone over this before so I will not repeat myself. Instead I will say that soon you will wish you never discovered titanium :bow:
Oh so very very soon :devilish:
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 17:40
Unless they have bombs strapped to their foreheads I doubt it.
Askthepizzaguy
05-07-2009, 17:58
Walking boxes eh?
Thanks. I just figured out how to defeat you.
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 18:18
I have a question: how the heck did people find out about those? I remember that the first time it was mentioned it wasnt by me.
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 21:36
How can one smilie be more unnerving than onehundred words? Anything else you would like to say?
Yes, I know Chemistry - and Metallurgy
:beam:
How can one smilie be more unnerving than onehundred words? Anything else you would like to say?
It was I, Roy the Mad, that discovered your "Giant Floating Hovels" :bow:
Greyblades
05-07-2009, 22:06
Argh he knows! Uh I mean um...
Beefy187
05-08-2009, 00:56
Good thing that I now have about 2 to 3 countries armies now.
Beefy, where's the map info?
C14, 15 are now occupied by Exiles
EF 14, 15 are controlled by Beefdom
North island of the QJC isles are controlled by Exiles
South are controlled by Buranda :bow:
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 00:58
And Aresa?
Beefy187
05-08-2009, 01:01
Strictly speaking, they are only protecting their fortress at D 21. However I think they are still in command of their land.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 01:04
You mean I haven't killed him yet? How? I had everything I needed; explosives etc. And why did I invade if i didnt get his lands? If I dont have his lands technically I havent gotten ATPG's lands either. Oh my head.
Beefy187
05-08-2009, 01:12
You mean I haven't killed him yet? How? I had everything I needed; explosives etc. And why did I invade if i didnt get his lands? If I dont have his lands technically I havent gotten ATPG's lands either. Oh my head.
Ares was in the fort up in the mountain, defending with all the army he has.
ATPGs army was somewhere else.
You can't just go "RARAARA" with Explosive arrows and massacre everyone in just one turn. Thats not fair.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 01:20
I realy dont see why my army couldnt take it though, I mean it was my faction that built the thing and know its weaknesses.
Fine I will stop complaining but seeing as he only holds a fortress he should only have one square.
Beefy187
05-08-2009, 01:29
I realy dont see why my army couldnt take it though, I mean it was my faction that built the thing and know its weaknesses.
Fine I will stop complaining but seeing as he only holds a fortress he should only have one square.
You could take the coastal area of the east side, But the squeres around the Fort still belongs to Aresea :bow:
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 01:31
Huh, what I understand about seige warfare is that you keep the enemy in the castle and not let him wander around gathering resources.
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 01:42
:laugh4:
I wouldn't worry about it Greyblades. It's all in good fun, you can crush him later. provided, of course, I don't crush you first!
:bow:
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 01:42
I know its just a pain that he is using my old fortress to survive... especially seeing as I had no idea I had it in the first place.
This is annoying I have half the world after my blood and now i have to spend more time sorting internal problems too.
Thank you square tool. First draft:
https://img5.imageshack.us/img5/3885/map4q.jpg
By the way pizza, yoyomas about to take you over. :grin:
Captain Blackadder
05-08-2009, 02:29
Greyblades of the Exiles you country is a haven to all those who wish to destroy our meat eating way of life a crusade againest you and your heritics.
VOTE GREYBLADES
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 02:52
The irony of that is allmost tangable.
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 02:54
The Hungry Khan welcomes the Republic of Buranda on this most holy mission.
-Pepperono
Beefy187
05-08-2009, 03:05
Cheers for the map Greyblades :2thumbsup:
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 04:15
Your welcome. Even if it seems to be the last time I will be putting white on the map.
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 04:21
*looks at the map*
Perhaps the capitals of each nation should be indicated somehow.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 15:36
To do that, I am going to need everyone to tell me where their capital is.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 16:37
I'm practicing with photoshop so I thought I may as well do this for my current and former territory.
https://img24.imageshack.us/img24/7347/citiesfinal.jpg
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 18:32
Might as well settle mine on F-18.
Yoyoma1910
05-08-2009, 18:38
:beatnik:
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 18:40
Although I suppose technically wherever my king is, that makes it my capital.
By the way, Yoyoma, are you joining the crusade or not? Unwilling to set our differences aside for the good of greater Beefdom?
Yoyoma1910
05-08-2009, 18:50
Why not settle your old grocery bill before asking for more Beef?
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 18:55
What does that mean?
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 18:56
Why not settle your old grocery bill before asking for more Beef?
If you were asking for REASONABLE payment, I'd send it to you.
No one gets territory as payment for passage through allied territory. You might as well ask me to fork over my palace in exchange for borrowing a handkerchief. That's greedy. I can offer you goods or services, not land and not vassalage. I had at one point decided to eventually be your vassal, but I dislike being talked down to and I dislike demands being made of me.
So I take it that's a "no"? Very well. And I suppose, being less than pious and opportunistic, that you will be taking advantage of my mostly vacant lands tonight? That figures. I fully expect to find your knife in my back. But fortunately for you, I have a duty to the Cattle God which is much greater than earthly concerns. So I suppose you'll be taking that land anyway. :thumbsdown: I assure you, you will make many enemies should you attempt such a dishonorable tactic. If you want my lands, be ready to fight for them like a noble king should, not a thief in the night. If you really want my lands, you should be willing to go on crusade against the infidel.
This crusade against the infidel is a long time coming. His arrogant capture of lands of Beefy people, even strange ones, and his very public lack of loyalty towards beef, will be his undoing.
Yoyoma1910
05-08-2009, 19:01
And you, honorless dog, should fufill you obligations. Instead of constantly coming around the kitchen begging for a bone.
Here, go fetch.
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 19:03
So be it. Just remember, we have unfinished business. When I return home with the head of the slain infidel, I expect to find my lands intact and still under my control. If not, then the Khan will be.... displeased.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 19:12
Why do you lot keep calling me that?
Yoyoma1910
05-08-2009, 19:15
Oh little Khan, moo moo moo moo.
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 19:17
Why do you lot keep calling me that?
Because you allow the heathen Veggie eaters to roam freely in your lands, knowing full well they are enemies of the Beef.
Oh little Khan, moo moo moo moo.
Charming.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 19:18
"I never thought I would meet a literal example of the phrase 'stupid leading the blind'".
Because you allow the heathen Veggie eaters to roam freely in your lands, knowing full well they are enemies of the Beef.
"I exiled them remember?"
To Greyblades: Cos you are an infidel... get with the times ~:smoking:
To ATPG and yoyoma: STOP ARGUING! Heretics are still eating vegetables as we speak!
To Everyone Else: Join the crusade already, lest ye be EXCOMMUNICATED!
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 19:22
"You excommunicated me 3 turns ago and now I'm at triple strength. Your threats need work."
Yoyoma1910
05-08-2009, 19:26
To Greyblades: Cos you are an infidel... get with the times ~:smoking:
To ATPG and yoyoma: STOP ARGUING! Heretics are still eating vegetables as we speak!
To Everyone Else: Join the crusade already, lest ye be EXCOMMUNICATED!
Why did you troops invade our lands?
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 19:28
Why did you troops invade our lands?
I find it hilarious that you seriously believe that Shadowbull did that. I know who did it, but since you're being uncooperative, I have no reason to divulge who your true enemy is.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 19:34
Blackadder
He's hasnt been affected in the attacks on me and yoyoma and he is the only one who tried to actually annex my lands during the crusade.
I find it hilarious that you seriously believe that Shadowbull did that. I know who did it, but since you're being uncooperative, I have no reason to divulge who your true enemy is.
If you are a true worshipper of Beefy you must tell me who it is, lest I excommunicate you for disobeying divine will :bow:
To Yoyoma: I DID NOT ATTACK YOU!
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 19:37
Isn't it obvious that the heathen veggie lovers are the only ones with a motive to cause ill-will between nations of Beef?
I cannot believe I am helping Yoyoma.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 19:40
And I suppose I murdered 2 of my own civillians to aggrivate Quintus and then call off hostilities directly afterwards?
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 19:45
*sigh* I don't want to argue with you. My intelligence reports were very clear. QJC was allowing our traders in his lands, and we just so happen to know that none from QJC's lands entered yours that night. You were the only one to gain from the sympathy of "being the victim". We were to all side with you, was that your plan?
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 19:48
What does trading have to do with a madman running around killing my people?
OOC: I dint even know I had trading then, seeing as I was exiled and noone would want to trade with me anyway.
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 20:02
OOC- I will admit that it was mostly deduction that led me to believe it was you. The people involved were putting on Decapodian uniforms, and they had been in your territory all night phase. They were NOT from the Hungry Khan, nor from TheFlax's territory, nor from QJC's territory. Who else does that leave?
Enough with your lies. Tonight, much blood will be spilled. Prepare for war, Exiles!
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 20:05
People? From beefy's PM there was only one murderer. Just because they were there all nightphase doesn't mean that they hadn't arrived beforehand.
As for who that leaves, well I have already said it, Blackadder wanted mine and quintus' lands. He tried to set me and quintus to attack each other and tire ourselves out so it would be easier to take over.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 20:50
I have a question, is there any way to get you lot to stop the crusade? Before he says it, no I wont Surrender and become protectorate to yoyoma.
Yoyoma1910
05-08-2009, 21:00
I have a question, is there any way to get you lot to stop the crusade? Before he says it, no I wont Surrender and become protectorate to yoyoma.
Well in that case, you could just give me all your land.
:saint:
I have a question, is there any way to get you lot to stop the crusade? Before he says it, no I wont Surrender and become protectorate to yoyoma.
1. Renounce your complete and utter heretic-ness.
2. Submit to a full purging by the Inquisition - we are not interested in your lands, so don't worry :bow:
That's all from me :bow: Others may be a tad harsher :no:
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 21:14
...Is that it?... huh I'm pretty sure I got rid of the veggies two turns ago, Oh well send your inquisitors in if its so important. Just do me a favour and only convert my engineers not kill them as they are hard to come by.
Just saying "Oh we got no heretics now" whilst still invading other Beefy-eating countried doesn't send out the correct message though :no:
Edit: Did you just admit your engineers are HERETICS!!?!??!?!
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 21:30
So what am I supposed to stop all my plans just because the ones I am inconveiniencing are beef eaters? Then why wernt you complaining when pizza killed off reenk? The world is more than about eating habits you know.
I meant if you find that any of my enegeneers are heritics.
1. You are the heretic here, you have to make a decent attempt at appeasing the Grand Theocrat before being truly redeemed. Others? Well... their crimes may be great, but at least they are not Veggies :bow:
My list of priorities = VEGGIES > People who pretended to be me > People who plan to attack me > Those not so faithful Beef eaters.
2. You said all your heretics were sent off - if there are any remaining, it either means you are lying, or that there a lot of secret cultist stuff going on. Either way, you get purged :bow:
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 21:52
Well after taka said he had a bunch of veggies running around in his country, seeing as he wasnt one of the original 'mafia', I cant be 100 percent sure I got rid of them all. As long as it doesnt result in a game over I will accept the purge thing.
If you are truly repentent, reveal the other heretic :bow: You can send the information by Pidgeon Mail if you wish to keep it a secret.
If you pass the test, you shall be treated leniently.
If you do not... :juggle:
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 22:17
Huh, risk death by swarming crusaders or sell out an former freindly...hmm.
Askthepizzaguy
05-08-2009, 22:37
Huh, risk death by swarming crusaders or sell out an former freindly...hmm.
Go ahead and reveal them. Seriously, cooperating with us means a world of difference.
Greyblades
05-08-2009, 23:21
Seeing as you are probably not even expecting me to reveal him I will do the honorable thing and refuse to squeal. Allthough you can still search my lands. Just tell your inquisitors to keep their guard up, some of the, less than agreeable, factions in my country did not appreciate being run out of their homes by your crusaders.
Hmm I'm getting a feeling of deja vu. Didnt I make a warning like this just before I screwed up last time?
Greyblades
05-09-2009, 03:20
Beefy there is two large patches of tan coloured land on the northern part of the continent, what are they, deserts farm or wastelands?
Sorry for the double post
The other heretic is, according to Greyblades, is Thermal Mercury.
Vote: TM
Crusade: TM
Curse: TM
Beefy187
05-09-2009, 13:00
Beefy there is two large patches of tan coloured land on the northern part of the continent, what are they, deserts farm or wastelands?
Sorry for the double post
DO NOT GO BEYOND THE OCEAN!!!
That is the end of the world!! You'll fall of the edge and fall and fall until you slit your wrists in boredom of endless fall.
The world is soo flat :book:
Askthepizzaguy
05-09-2009, 13:15
Seeing as you are probably not even expecting me to reveal him I will do the honorable thing and refuse to squeal.
The other heretic is, according to Greyblades, is Thermal Mercury.
If I should think
It would only drive me to drink
So I'll go, but I know
I'll have a headache ev'ry step of the way
And I will always be confused
I will always be confused
You, my Greyblades you, hmmmm...
Headache relievers
That is all I'm taking with me
So, goodbye... please, just die
We both know you don't deserve... to live
And I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I hope the crusade treats you kind
And I hope you convert to beef worship
Or I wish to you, pain and sadness
But above all this, I wish you death.
And I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I, I will always be confused
You, Exiles, make me confused
Oooh, I'll always... I'll always be confused
Greyblades
05-09-2009, 13:21
The other heretic is, according to Greyblades, is Thermal Mercury.
Vote: TM
Crusade: TM
Curse: TM
Huh, I half expected him to not believe it...
Remember his lands are mine.
If I should think
It would only drive me to drink
So I'll go, but I know
I'll have a headache ev'ry step of the way
And I will always be confused
I will always be confused
You, my Greyblades you, hmmmm...
Headache relievers
That is all I'm taking with me
So, goodbye... please, just die
We both know you don't deserve... to live
And I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I hope the crusade treats you kind
And I hope you convert to beef worship
Or I wish to you, pain and sadness
But above all this, I wish you death.
And I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I will always be confused
I, I will always be confused
You, Exiles, make me confused
Oooh, I'll always... I'll always be confused
Hmmm... Ares is on the list of those who rejected my missionaries, and Greyblades sent the Pidgeon Message before he made the post... so... hmmmmm
Greyblades
05-09-2009, 13:27
DO NOT GO BEYOND THE OCEAN!!!
That is the end of the world!! You'll fall of the edge and fall and fall until you slit your wrists in boredom of endless fall.
The world is soo flat :book:
What? I was asking if there were a patch of desert in the yellow patch on the wester border of my lands.
This bit:https://img21.imageshack.us/img21/2518/desertr.jpg
Askthepizzaguy
05-09-2009, 13:38
You peeping Tom! That's my auntie undressing for her bath! You perv!
Greyblades
05-09-2009, 13:43
Be quiet, mommy and daddy are talking.
Beefy187
05-09-2009, 13:43
What? I was asking if there were a patch of desert in the yellow patch on the wester border of my lands.
This bit:https://img21.imageshack.us/img21/2518/desertr.jpg
Ah. That would be wastelands/ Desertish place :bow:
I thought you meant the browny bit which is the edge of the map.
Greyblades
05-09-2009, 13:48
Oh, ok then, desert warfare it is. Heh, thats ironic, the last stand of the fish people is in the middle of the desert.
Yoyoma1910
05-09-2009, 16:16
Oh... those were supposed to be steppes.
The dessert regions were the brownish areas along the upper coast.
Greyblades
05-09-2009, 18:51
Oh dang it... Plan B then...
Did you draw the entire thing yoyoma?
Greyblades
05-09-2009, 19:45
Day I think.
Yoyoma1910
05-09-2009, 20:24
Yep. All from scratch.
Every stroke, tone, texture, and form.
Edit:
The 3d rendering was done with a layer filter.
Greyblades
05-09-2009, 21:01
I wish I had the inclination to get that good. Oh well...
Yoyoma1910
05-09-2009, 21:17
It's really just practice.
I'll save you the anecdote about how I had an art teacher in school who felt I should learn something semi marketable.
Greyblades
05-10-2009, 00:32
1. Is the day over yet?
2. Is it desert or plains? I'm not too sure which, of beefy or yoyoma, gets the last say on that.
Beefy187
05-10-2009, 00:52
1. Is the day over yet?
2. Is it desert or plains? I'm not too sure which, of beefy or yoyoma, gets the last say on that.
1. Day is ending soon
2. Yoyo is the creator of the island. So he has the final say
Beefy didn't show up at all.
Messenger arrived to the meeting hall to dismiss everyone as everything seems to have been decided.
Storm is approaching the island...From the North West
Start sending night orders
Yoyoma1910
05-10-2009, 07:30
Well it doesn't really mater to me. I was just stating my original intentions... which was to build Beefy's dream island.
Beefy187
05-10-2009, 07:37
If its for the exiles then desert seems to... you know.. suit them.
I was going to do the events, but sudden increase in tempereture is getting to me.. I'm half dead in front of my laptop, and cannot be bothered to do anything.
My laptop seems to agree. As its overheated.
Naptime!
Greyblades
05-10-2009, 16:49
If its for the exiles then desert seems to... you know.. suit them.
It does? Ugh consistency is one of my weakpoints. So while I have been doing a sort of western medieval europe country using steam, I should have been doing a sort of egypt/north african country?
Yoyoma1910
05-10-2009, 17:54
western medieval europe country using steam
You're a few hundred years ahead of the time frame.
Greyblades
05-10-2009, 17:56
They're primative and have a tendancy to explode without supervision besides its a fantasy setting, heck Thermal has fishmen.
All it would take is for the right type of person to notice the pressure of the steam coming out of a kettle and think "wow, maybe I can use this to make my work easier?".
Well thats my excuse and I'm sticking with it.
Just a quick question, noble King Yoyoma...
Dost thou plannst to invadeth the Holy Theocracy for a crime we didth not commiteth?
:bow:
Yoyoma1910
05-10-2009, 19:27
They're primative and have a tendancy to explode without supervision besides its a fantasy setting, heck Thermal has fishmen.
All it would take is for the right type of person to notice the pressure of the steam coming out of a kettle and think "wow, maybe I can use this to make my work easier?".
Well thats my excuse and I'm sticking with it.
Oh, is that all it took?
Medieval societies would have believed in fishmen before they would have believed in steam power. I mean, look at Napoleon's reaction to steam power! That was in the early 1800s.
Anyway, do what you want.
And no, Shlin, I'm not planning on invading you for a crime you didn't commit. But I would like it if you would figure out who is manipulating the situation in your name.
Greyblades
05-10-2009, 19:46
Oh, is that all it took?
Medieval societies would have believed in fishmen before they would have believed in steam power. I mean, look at Napoleon's reaction to steam power! That was in the early 1800s.
"I am the ruler of an exiled nation, I get alot of guys with ideas that have been rejected as insane or hethen in other nations usualy they're rubbish but now and then it becomes a breakthrough."
I cant find anything about napoleon and steam engines so your going to need to explain that but from what I understand the first use of steam power was the aeolipile (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aeolipile) long before the medieval period.
I've said it before, you can do anything in this game if you have an argument that makes at least a little sense to the host.
Askthepizzaguy
05-10-2009, 21:18
I'll tell you what, King Yoyoma; I'll show you my intelligence regarding who attacked you, but you must consider our debt to you repaid.
-Pepperono
Greyblades
05-10-2009, 21:33
You're saying that it wasnt me? You were practically shouting out to the heveans that it was me and now your sayng you have yet to reveal?
Askthepizzaguy
05-10-2009, 22:41
Hold your tongue, infidel. I wasn't speaking to you!
Greyblades
05-10-2009, 22:50
Still sore? Dont worry your people are acclimating quite nicely to their new lives.
Askthepizzaguy
05-10-2009, 22:51
You will not be so cheeky after tonight, and perhaps you will have far fewer clever words when I cut out your tongue.
Greyblades
05-10-2009, 22:53
Didn't your mother tell you it was both rude and stupid to threaten someone when your army is a ragged mess?
Askthepizzaguy
05-10-2009, 22:54
I will not sit at a table of "peace" with this barbarian. I'll see you on the battlefield.
*Pepperono storms out*
Greyblades
05-10-2009, 22:56
On your way out watch out for the pit tra- "AAAAAAAAAHHH"
...nevermind.
Beefy187
05-11-2009, 01:18
On your way out watch out for the pit tra- "AAAAAAAAAHHH"
...nevermind.
Greyblades is dead.
No I'm serious :clown:
Greyblades
05-11-2009, 01:26
You just had to turn it around, didnt you. :brood:
:clown:
Beefy187
05-12-2009, 01:32
Be prepared for blatent Kingdom of Heaven rip off..
Holy Theocracy of the Shadowbull
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/bullflagsmall.jpg
While Roy the mad had problems maintaining his reputation, he saw break throughs in ancient tactics of shifting the publics interests and making a common enemy. In this case... The scape goat was the veggie eaters.
"Men!! Women!! Brave sons and daughters of the Holy Theocracy.
Today we live in fear. Fear of the vegetarians dominating this peaceful land of ours. We must all unite against the vegetarians! We must strike them down and hang and crucify... BURN all the vegetarians! Because they eat vegetables!! As a good meat eating folks like your selves. As the duty of the beef steak lovers like your selves.... What is your duty in this troubled times? Thats right! To pick up your weapons, strap on your armour and shields. String your bows. March at once to the land of the vegetarians and kill them once and for all. Hear me brothers and sisters.
Killing an infidel is not murder!! It is path to heaven!
Killing an infidel is not murder!!.... It is a path to Beef heaven!!"
I curse the vegetarian kings. Greyblades!!"
*CURSE YOU GREYBLADES
"I curse the vegetarians... The Areseans!!"
*CURSE YOU ARESEANS!!
"I curse those who pretends to be us but who is not us."
*CURSE YOU.... twptbubwinu!!
"I curse all the kings who won't join us in this holy crusade!"
*CURSE YOU COWARDS!!
"CURSE!! CURSE!!"
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 01:38
Thats just plain cheery. :rolleyes:
Wait...:inquisitive: twptbubwinu?
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 01:54
A scroll arrives for the infidel leader of the Exiles, bearing the seal of the Hungry Khan.
Come now, Greyblades, this is your chance to show us how impressive your walking buildings and exploding arrows are. Rejoice in fighting like a man, instead of some limp-wristed steamed broccoli eater. Should you win the day, your enemies will flee in terror, except for the ones who truly love Beef, and your archnemesis (or... archnemeses) will be vanquished! It matters not the horde of men amassed against you, nor their countless swords and pikes and maces and arrows, and yes, the explosive arrows which I stole from you (sorry, did I forget to mention that? :laugh4: Sorry. Don't leave that stuff out in the open, man!) and of course, the cannons which I may now produce from the conquered Roink peoples. Fret not over the endless horsemen, the impenetrable navy, or the crusaders and the other crusaders, yes, the holiest of holy men from all over these lands. For if your heretic veggie eating has made you nice and strong, (LOL) like us beefeaters are, then you will slay even the mightiest of us single-handedly. Or perhaps not. I will send your armies to the lake of flaming cow dung, and from now on my lance will have your skull dangling from the end, so the rest of the enemies of beef can see exactly what will happen to them. Unsheath your sword, blasphemous cucumber chewer! If you want more vegetables in your system, here... let me drive a carrot through your heart.
Prince Basillo, Elder son of the Hungry Khan
PS- Twptbubwinu obviously stands for TosaInu. :bounce: Yes, even the forum admin wishes you to be smote by the hammer of the Cattle God.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 02:00
What? The barrels we replaced? Those were the unstable prototypes, twice the yield but have a habit of becoming realy nasty when coming in contact with air, glass and small gusts of wind. Why do you think we left them unguarded hmm? Not even shlin is that suicidal.
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 02:02
What those barrels we replaced? Those were the unstable prototypes, twice the yield but have a habit of becoming realy nasty when coming in contact with air, glass and small gusts of wind. Why do you think we left them unguarded hmm?.
laughable. Even if that were so, we could still launch them at you with our catapults and trebuchets. And we've had them with us all this time for a special occasion, such as blowing you up with them. Thanks for the heads up though, we will be sure to test a few of them before the battle. Got any more secrets you want to reveal before we destroy the enemies of beef?
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 02:06
Yeah one more thing, the casing wont break without being hit with a blast the eqivalent of a volcano, they wont be anymore effective than pelting us with splints of wood and should you expose it to the air, boom. I hope you like it :evilgrin:.
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 02:25
If your swords are as sharp as your wit, I shall send trained bunny rabbits to fight you instead.
Actually, on second thought, that's a bit unfair.
They obviously won't need training.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 02:35
Its not wit, its fact, thats the industrial grade chemical you have, we only use it in the building's self destruct mechanism, its enough to take out a citadel and reduce 10 square miles to rubble so the containers are designed to not let it go off without opening it.
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 02:38
Even better. I think I could defeat your armies with one blast. I should be very careful with such a weapon, then... I wouldn't want something to happen to your pretty feminine face. :laugh4:
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 02:41
...No, you won't be able to get into my lands with suicide bombers if thats what your thinking.
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 02:45
...No, you won't be able to get into my lands with suicide bombers if thats what your thinking.
I think you grossly underestimate the lengths I am willing to go to kill you. I'd be willing to take my entire force, under the command of the Hungry Khan himself, personally marching in front of the weapon, preparing to release it if things should require such an act. Sending in petty terrorists is an act of Roinkish strategy, we are the Hungry Khan's forces. We don't do things piecemeal.
A handful of cloaked men enter, their red and black uniforms with the white hand emblazoned upon them, each bespeaking of a less then honest occupation, each littered with convent daggers, pouches, and "tools of the trade" - that you can see. One silently steps forward, and places a lustrous piece of metal that is exceptionally familiar to Greyblades, and upon that, places a beaker filled with a swirling pale green-yellow gas.
Bowing stiffly to Greyblades, the knave slams his hand down upon the beaker, shattering it and releasing the gas. His hand darts back exceedingly fast, and a smell of bleach begins to fill the air. The metal ripples, heat emanating form it - then, in a blaze, the metal bursts into a small flame and a noxious scent fills the air.
The metal ceases burning, and the knave returns, picks it up and systematically begins crushing it into bits, so brittle is the metal now. Tossing the fragmented metal at Greyblades feet, the knave bows.
"A message from the Consulate"
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 04:08
"What a cheery offering by the consulate."
*James whispers a small order to the hulking steel-covered bodyguards who promptly surround and slaughters the robed idiots*
"Now could we continue without the rude interuptions?"
"What a cheery offering by the consulate."
*James whispers a small order to the hulking steel-covered bodyguards who promptly surround and slaughters the robed idiots*
"Now could we continue without the rude interuptions?"
THE BODYGUARDS SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUST INTO FLAMES - violence is not tolerated at a nominally peaceful setting. And that borders on Godmodding, which is beyond your power as a player. You think such men would actually stand still or not have means of escape?
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 04:37
No what I did was tell my body guards to kill intruders that act threateningly. You "godmodded" by saying THE BODYGUARDS SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUST INTO FLAMES and expecting us to accept it. And since when was this game peacful?
No what I did was tell my body guards to kill intruders that act threateningly you "godmodded" by saying THE BODYGUARDS SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUST INTO FLAMES and expected us to accept it.
They did not intrude - this is the council chambers, is it not? Thus, you had no call nor reason to do what you did, and it tends to ruin the atmosphere. If they had personally visited you, that would be PM, not in the public thread.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 04:44
And you had no reason to fill the room with noxious gas emmitting knife weilding hoods. Sending obvious assassins into the council chambers is threatening enough without practically declaring your intentions to kill me well. I dont know how you do it but when someone threatens me out of the blue I get rid of them before they have a chance to carry out their threats.
And you had no reason to fill the room with noxious gas emmitting knife weilding hoods. Sending obvious assassins into the council chambers is threatening enough without practically declaring your intentions to kill me well. I dont know how you do it but when someone threatens me out of the blue I get rid of them before they have a chance to carry out their threats.
Did you pay actual attention to what was done? Consulate Agents simply demonstrated a process to you - duh it was a threat, but no one was going to be killed. Second, they wouldn't, you know, actually, let you kill them, and even the best plate armor has holes in it - holes daggers were meant to pierce. That's why swords took the evolution towards rapiers - they could get into those points and deal a lethal wound.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 04:53
This isnt assassins creed. An assassins prowess is in surprise attacks, in a one on one fight with a trained soldier they will lose and they will fare even worse against a group of soldiers.
This isnt assassins creed. An assassins prowess is in surprise attacks, in a one on one fight with a trained soldier they will lose and they will fare even worse against a group of soldiers.
*facepalm* Assassins come in a variety of flavors, not all are subtle, and many, especially state trained not mercenary rubbish, have more then adequate combat capability.
These are not hired thugs -these are trained from birth state funded professional agents of the Consulate - think of them as SAS or Spetsnaz.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 05:01
You still need to actually know where the weakspots in armour are before you peirce them. Sorry but I would like to continue this tommorrow, I am starting to get a pretty bad headache.
You still need to actually know where the weakspots in armour are before you peirce them. Sorry but I would like to continue this tommorrow, I am starting to get a pretty bad headache.
Armpits, groin area, and the inside of the elbow and kneecap, and occasionally the neck or visor, depends on the model for them. Weak points on Plate armor is rather standard...they all must follow the basic requirement of actually letting their wearer actually move...:inquisitive:
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 05:11
Ladies, gentlemen, please... we ride into battle to settle this matter like men. If the banter is not witty, I do not hear it.
Puzzle for all then
I am Nobody
Because Nobody is me
List all possible meanings and interpretations of this simple statement.
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 05:40
Puzzle for all then
I am Nobody
Because Nobody is me
List all possible meanings and interpretations of this simple statement.
It could possibly have something to do with the human body. As such, and without further ado, I present to you the section of Grey's Anatomy which deals with the human embryo.
Anatomy of the Human Body
Henry Gray
THE TERM human anatomy comprises a consideration of the various structures which make up the human organism. In a restricted sense it deals merely with the parts which form the fully developed individual and which can be rendered evident to the naked eye by various methods of dissection. Regarded from such a standpoint it may be studied by two methods: (1) the various structures may be separately considered—systematic anatomy; or (2) the organs and tissues may be studied in relation to one another—topographical or regional anatomy. 1
It is, however, of much advantage to add to the facts ascertained by naked-eye dissection those obtained by the use of the microscope. This introduces two fields of investigation, viz., the study of the minute structure of the various component parts of the body—histology—and the study of the human organism in its immature condition, i. e., the various stages of its intrauterine development from the fertilized ovum up to the period when it assumes an independent existence—embryology. Owing to the difficulty of obtaining material illustrating all the stages of this early development, gaps must be filled up by observations on the development of lower forms—comparative embryology, or by a consideration of adult forms in the line of human ancestry—comparative anatomy. The direct application of the facts of human anatomy to the various pathological conditions which may occur constitutes the subject of applied anatomy. Finally, the appreciation of structures on or immediately underlying the surface of the body is frequently made the subject of special study—surface anatomy. 2
SYSTEMATIC ANATOMY.—The various systems of which the human body is composed are grouped under the following headings:
Osteology—the bony system or skeleton.
Syndesmology—the articulations or joints.
Myology—the muscles. With the description of the muscles it is convenient to include that of the fasciæ which are so intimately connected with them.
Angiology—the vascular system, comprising the heart, bloodvessels, lymphatic vessels, and lymph glands.
Neurology—the nervous system. The organs of sense may be included in this system.
Splanchnology—the visceral system. Topographically the viscera form two groups, viz., the thoracic viscera and the abdomino-pelvic viscera. The heart, a thoracic viscus, is best considered with the vascular system. The rest of the viscera may be grouped according to their functions: (a) the respiratory apparatus; (b) the digestive apparatus; and (c) the urogenital apparatus. Strictly speaking, the third subgroup should include only such components of the urogenital apparatus as are included within the abdomino-pelvic cavity, but it is convenient to study under this heading certain parts which lie in relation to the surface of the body, e. g., the testes and the external organs of generation. 3
For descriptive purposes the body is supposed to be in the erect posture, with the arms hanging by the sides and the palms of the hands directed forward. The median plane is a vertical antero-posterior plane, passing through the center of the trunk. This plane will pass approximately through the sagittal suture of the skull, and hence any plane parallel to it is termed a sagittal plane. A vertical plane at right angles to the median plane passes, roughly speaking, through the central part of the coronal suture or through a line parallel to it; such a plane is known as a frontal plane or sometimes as a coronal plane. A plane at right angles to both the median and frontal planes is termed a transverse plane. 4
The terms anterior or ventral, and posterior or dorsal, are employed to indicate the relation of parts to the front or back of the body or limbs, and the terms superior or cephalic, and inferior or caudal, to indicate the relative levels of different structures; structures nearer to or farther from the median plane are referred to as medial or lateral respectively. 5
The terms superficial and deep are strictly confined to descriptions of the relative depth from the surface of the various structures; external and internal are reserved almost entirely for describing the walls of cavities or of hollow viscera. In the case of the limbs the words proximal and distal refer to the relative distance from the attached end of the limb.
THE TERM Embryology, in its widest sense, is applied to the various changes which take place during the growth of an animal from the egg to the adult condition: it is, however, usually restricted to the phenomena which occur before birth. Embryology may be studied from two aspects: (1) that of ontogeny, which deals only with the development of the individual; and (2) that of phylogeny, which concerns itself with the evolutionary history of the animal kingdom. 1
In vertebrate animals the development of a new being can only take place when a female germ cell or ovum has been fertilized by a male germ cell or spermatozoön. The ovum is a nucleated cell, and all the complicated changes by which the various tissues and organs of the body are formed from it, after it has been fertilized, are the result of two general processes, viz., segmentation and differentiation of cells. Thus, the fertilized ovum undergoes repeated segmentation into a number of cells which at first closely resemble one another, but are, sooner or later, differentiated into two groups: (1) somatic cells, the function of which is to build up the various tissues of the body; and (2) germinal cells, which become imbedded in the sexual glands—the ovaries in the female and the testes in the male—and are destined for the perpetuation of the species. 2
Having regard to the main purpose of this work, it is impossible, in the space available in this section, to describe fully, or illustrate adequately, all the phenomena which occur in the different stages of the development of the human body. Only the principal facts are given, and the student is referred for further details to one or other of the text-books 1 on human embryology. 3
1. The Animal Cell
All the tissues and organs of the body originate from a microscopic structure (the fertilized ovum), which consists of a soft jelly-like material enclosed in a membrane and containing a vesicle or small spherical body inside which are one or more denser spots. This may be regarded as a complete cell. All the solid tissues consist largely of cells essentially similar to it in nature but differing in external form. 4
In the higher organisms a cell may be defined as “a nucleated mass of protoplasm of microscopic size.” Its two essentials, therefore, are: a soft jelly-like material, similar to that found in the ovum, and usually styled cytoplasm, and a small spherical body imbedded in it, and termed a nucleus. Some of the unicellular protozoa contain no nuclei but granular particles which, like true nuclei, stain with basic dyes. The other constituents of the ovum, viz., its limiting membrane and the denser spot contained in the nucleus, called the nucleolus, are not essential to the type cell, and in fact many cells exist without them. 5
Cytoplasm (protoplasm) is a material probably of variable constitution during life, but yielding on its disintegration bodies chiefly of proteid nature. Lecithin and cholesterin are constantly found in it, as well as inorganic salts, chief among which are the phosphates and chlorides of potassium, sodium, and calcium. It is of a semifluid, viscid consistence, and probably colloidal in nature. The living cytoplasm appears to consist of a homogeneous and structureless ground-substance in which are embedded granules of various types. The mitochondria are the most constant type of granule and vary in form from granules to rods and threads. Their function is unknown. Some of the granules are proteid in nature and probably essential constituents; others are fat, glycogen, or pigment granules, and are regarded as adventitious material taken in from without, and hence are styled cell-inclusions or paraplasm. When, however, cells have been “fixed” by reagents a fibrillar or granular appearance can often be made out under a high power of the microscope. The fibrils are usually arranged in a network or reticulum, to which the term spongioplasm is applied, the clear substance in the meshes being termed hyaloplasm. The size and shape of the meshes of the spongioplasm vary in different cells and in different parts of the same cell. The relative amounts of spongioplasm and hyaloplasm also vary in different cells, the latter preponderating in the young cell and the former increasing at the expense of the hyaloplasm as the cell grows. Such appearances in fixed cells are no indication whatsoever of the existence of similar structures in the living, although there must have been something in the living cell to give rise to the fixed structures. The peripheral layer of a cell is in all cases modified, either by the formation of a definite cell membrane as in the ovum, or more frequently in the case of animal cells, by a transformation, probably chemical in nature, which is only recognizable by the fact that the surface of the cell behaves as a semipermeable membrane. 6
FIG. 1– Diagram of a cell. (Modified from Wilson.) (See enlarged image)
Nucleus.—The nucleus is a minute body, imbedded in the protoplasm, and usually of a spherical or oval form, its size having little relation to that of the cell. It is surrounded by a well-defined wall, the nuclear membrane; this encloses the nuclear substance (nuclear matrix), which is composed of a homogeneous material in which is usually embedded one or two nucleoli. In fixed cells the nucleus seems to consist of a clear substance or karyoplasm and a network or karyomitome. The former is probably of the same nature as the hyaloplasm of the cell, but the latter, which forms also the wall of the nucleus, differs from the spongioplasm of the cell substance. It consists of fibers or filaments arranged in a reticular manner. These filaments are composed of a homogeneous material known as linin, which stains with acid dyes and contains embedded in its substance particles which have a strong affinity for basic dyes. These basophil granules have been named chromatin or basichromatin and owe their staining properties to the presence of nucleic acid. Within the nuclear matrix are one or more highly refracting bodies, termed nucleoli, connected with the nuclear membrane by the nuclear filaments. They are regarded as being of two kinds. Some are mere local condensations (“net-knots”) of the chromatin; these are irregular in shape and are termed pseudo-nucleoli; others are distinct bodies differing from the pseudo-nucleoli both in nature and chemical composition; they may be termed true nucleoli, and are usually found in resting cells. The true nucleoli are oxyphil, i.e., they stain with acid dyes. 7
Most living cells contain, in addition to their protoplasm and nucleus, a small particle which usually lies near the nucleus and is termed the centrosome. In the middle of the centrosome is a minute body called the centriole, and surrounding this is a clear spherical mass known as the centrosphere. The protoplasm surrounding the centrosphere is frequently arranged in radiating fibrillar rows of granules, forming what is termed the attraction sphere. 8
Reproduction of Cells.—Reproduction of cells is effected either by direct or by indirect division. In reproduction by direct division the nucleus becomes constricted in its center, assuming an hour-glass shape, and then divides into two. This is followed by a cleavage or division of the whole protoplasmic mass of the cell; and thus two daughter cells are formed, each containing a nucleus. These daughter cells are at first smaller than the original mother cell; but they grow, and the process may be repeated in them, so that multiplication may take place rapidly. Indirect division or karyokinesis (karyomitosis) has been observed in all the tissues—generative cells, epithelial tissue, connective tissue, muscular tissue, and nerve tissue. It is possible that cell division may always take place by the indirect method. 9
The process of indirect cell division is characterized by a series of complex changes in the nucleus, leading to its subdivision; this is followed by cleavage of the cell protoplasm. Starting with the nucleus in the quiescent or resting stage, these changes may be briefly grouped under the four following phases (Fig. 2). 10
1. Prophase.—The nuclear network of chromatin filaments assumes the form of a twisted skein or spirem, while the nuclear membrane and nucleolus disappear. The convoluted skein of chromatin divides into a definite number of V-shaped segments or chromosomes. The number of chromosomes varies in different animals, but is constant for all the cells in an animal of any given species; in man the number is given by Flemming and Duesberg as twenty-four. 2 Coincidently with or preceding these changes the centriole, which usually lies by the side of the nucleus, undergoes subdivision, and the two resulting centrioles, each surrounded by a centrosphere, are seen to be connected by a spindle of delicate achromatic fibers the achromatic spindle. The centrioles move away from each other—one toward either extremity of the nucleus—and the fibrils of the achromatic spindle are correspondingly lengthened. A line encircling the spindle midway between its extremities or poles is named the equator, and around this the V-shaped chromosomes arrange themselves in the form of a star, thus constituting the mother star or monaster. 11
2. Metaphase.—Each V-shaped chromosome now undergoes longitudinal cleavage into two equal parts or daughter chromosomes, the cleavage commencing at the apex of the V and extending along its divergent limbs. 12
3. Anaphase.—The daughter chromosomes, thus separated, travel in opposite directions along the fibrils of the achromatic spindle toward the centrioles, around which they group themselves, and thus two star-like figures are formed, one at either pole of the achromatic spindle. This constitutes the diaster. The daughter chromosomes now arrange themselves into a skein or spirem, and eventually form the network of chromatin which is characteristic of the resting nucleus. 13
4. Telophase.—The cell protoplasm begins to appear constricted around the equator of the achromatic spindle, where double rows of granules are also sometimes seen. The constriction deepens and the original cell gradually becomes divided into two new cells, each with its own nucleus and centrosome, which assume the ordinary positions occupied by such structures in the resting stage. The nuclear membrane and nucleolus are also differentiated during this phase.
2. The Ovum
The ova are developed from the primitive germ cells which are imbedded in the substance of the ovaries. Each primitive germ cell gives rise, by repeated divisions, to a number of smaller cells termed oögonia, from which the ova or primary oöcytes are developed. 1
Human ova are extremely minute, measuring about 0.2 mm. in diameter, and are enclosed within the egg follicles of the ovaries; as a rule each follicle contains a single ovum, but sometimes two or more are present. 3 By the enlargement and subsequent rupture of a follicle at the surface of the ovary, an ovum is liberated and conveyed by the uterine tube to the cavity of the uterus. Unless it be fertilized it undergoes no further development and is discharged from the uterus, but if fertilization take place it is retained within the uterus and is developed into a new being. 2
In appearance and structure the ovum (Fig. 3) differs little from an ordinary cell, but distinctive names have been applied to its several parts; thus, the cell substance is known as the yolk or oöplasm, the nucleus as the germinal vesicle, and the nucleolus as the germinal spot. The ovum is enclosed within a thick, transparent envelope, the zona striata or zona pellucida, adhering to the outer surface of which are several layers of cells, derived from those of the follicle and collectively constituting the corona radiata. 3
FIG. 3– Human ovum examined fresh in the liquor folliculi. (Waldeyer.) The zona pellucida is seen as a thick clear girdle surrounded by the cells of the corona radiata. The egg itself shows a central granular deutoplasmic area and a peripheral clear layer, and encloses the germinal vesicle, in which is seen the germinal spot. (See enlarged image)
Yolk.—The yolk comprises (1) the cytoplasm of the ordinary animal cell with its spongioplasm and hyaloplasm; this is frequently termed the formative yolk; (2) the nutritive yolk or deutoplasm, which consists of numerous rounded granules of fatty and albuminoid substances imbedded in the cytoplasm. In the mammalian ovum the nutritive yolk is extremely small in amount, and is of service in nourishing the embryo in the early stages of its development only, whereas in the egg of the bird there is sufficient to supply the chick with nutriment throughout the whole period of incubation. The nutritive yolk not only varies in amount, but in its mode of distribution within the egg; thus, in some animals it is almost uniformly distributed throughout the cytoplasm; in some it is centrally placed and is surrounded by the cytoplasm; in others it is accumulated at the lower pole of the ovum, while the cytoplasm occupies the upper pole. A centrosome and centriole are present and lie in the immediate neighborhood of the nucleus. 4
Germinal Vesicle.—The germinal vesicle or nucleus is a large spherical body which at first occupies a nearly central position, but becomes eccentric as the growth of the ovum proceeds. Its structure is that of an ordinary cell-nucleus, viz., it consists of a reticulum or karyomitome, the meshes of which are filled with karyoplasm, while connected with, or imbedded in, the reticulum are a number of chromatin masses or chromosomes, which may present the appearance of a skein or may assume the form of rods or loops. The nucleus is enclosed by a delicate nuclear membrane, and contains in its interior a well-defined nucleolus or germinal spot. 5
Coverings of the Ovum.—The zona striata or zona pellucida (Fig. 3) is a thick membrane, which, under the higher powers of the microscope, is seen to be radially striated. It persists for some time after fertilization has occurred, and may serve for protection during the earlier stages of segmentation. It is not yet determined whether the zona striata is a product of the cytoplasm of the ovum or of the cells of the corona radiata, or both. 6
The corona radiata (Fig. 3) consists or two or three strata of cells; they are derived from the cells of the follicle, and adhere to the outer surface of the zona striata when the ovum is set free from the follicle; the cells are radially arranged around the zona, those of the innermost layer being columnar in shape. The cells of the corona radiata soon disappear; in some animals they secrete, or are replaced by, a layer of adhesive protein, which may assist in protecting and nourishing the ovum. 7
The phenomena attending the discharge of the ova from the follicles belong more to the ordinary functions of the ovary than to the general subject of embryology, and are therefore described with the anatomy of the ovaries. 4 8
Maturation of the Ovum.—Before an ovum can be fertilized it must undergo a process of maturation or ripening. This takes place previous to or immediately after its escape from the follicle, and consists essentially of an unequal subdivision of the ovum (Fig. 4) first into two and then into four cells. Three of the four cells are small, incapable of further development, and are termed polar bodies or polocytes, while the fourth is large, and constitutes the mature ovum. The process of maturation has not been observed in the human ovum, but has been carefully studied in the ova of some of the lower animals, to which the following description applies. 9
It was pointed out on page 37 that the number of chromosomes found in the nucleus is constant for all the cells in an animal of any given species, and that in man the number is probably twenty-four. This applies not only to the somatic cells but to the primitive ova and their descendants. For the purpose of illustrating the process of maturation a species may be taken in which the number of nuclear chromosomes is four (Fig. 5). If an ovum from such be observed at the beginning of the maturation process it will be seen that the number of its chromosomes is apparently reduced to two. In reality, however, the number is doubled, since each chromosome consists of four granules grouped to form a tetrad. During the metaphase (see page 37) each tetrad divides into two dyads, which are equally distributed between the nuclei of the two cells formed by the first division of the ovum. One of the cells is almost as large as the original ovum, and is named the secondary oöcyte; the other is small, and is termed the first polar body. The secondary oöcyte now undergoes subdivision, during which each dyad divides and contributes a single chromosome to the nucleus of each of the two resulting cells. 10
FIG. 4– Formation of polar bodies in Asterias glacialis. (Slightly modified from Hertwig.) In I the polar spindle (sp) has advanced to the surface of the egg. In II a small elevation (pb1) is formed which receives half of the spindle. In III the elevation is constricted off, forming the first polar body (pb1), and a second spindle is formed. In IV is seen a second elevation which in V has been constricted off as the second polar body (pb2). Out of the remainder of the spindle (f.pn in VI) the female pronucleus is developed. (See enlarged image)
The spermatozoa or male germ cells are developed in the testes and are present in enormous numbers in the seminal fluid. Each consists of a small but greatly modified cell. The human spermatozoön possesses a head, a neck, a connecting piece or body, and a tail (Fig. 6). 1
FIG. 6– Human spermatozoön. Diagrammatic. A. Surface view. B. Profile view. In C the head, neck, and connecting piece are more highly magnified. (See enlarged image)
The head is oval or elliptical, but flattened, so that when viewed in profile it is pear-shaped. Its anterior two-thirds are covered by a layer of modified protoplasm, which is named the head-cap. This, in some animals, e. g., the salamander, is prolonged into a barbed spear-like process or perforator, which probably facilitates the entrance of the spermatozoön into the ovum. The posterior part of the head exhibits an affinity for certain reagents, and presents a transversely striated appearance, being crossed by three or four dark bands. In some animals a central rodlike filament extends forward for about two-thirds of the length of the head, while in others a rounded body is seen near its center. The head contains a mass ofchromatin, and is generally regarded as the nucleus of the cell surrounded by a thin envelope. 2
The neck is less constricted in the human spermatozoön than in those of some of the lower animals. The anterior centriole, represented by two or three rounded particles, is situated at the junction of the head and neck, and behind it is a band of homogeneous substance. 3
The connecting piece or body is rod-like, and is limited behind by a terminal disk. The posterior centriole is placed at the junction of the body and neck and, like the anterior, consists of two or three rounded particles. From this centriole an axial filament, surrounded by a sheath, runs backward through the body and tail. In the body the sheath of the axial filament is encircled by a spiral thread, around which is an envelope containing mitochondria granules, and termed the mitochondria sheath. 4
The tail is of great length, and consists of the axial thread or filament, surrounded by its sheath, which may contain a spiral thread or may present a striated appearance. The terminal portion or end-piece of the tail consists of the axial filament only. 5
FIG. 7– Scheme showing analogies in the process of maturation of the ovum and the development of the spermatids (young spermatozoa). (See enlarged image)
Krause gives the length of the human spermatozoön as between 52μ and 62μ, the head measuring 4 to 5μ, the connecting piece 6μ, and the tail from 41μ to 52μ. 6
By virtue of their tails, which act as propellers, the spermatozoa are capable of free movement, and if placed in favorable surroundings, e. g., in the female passages, will retain their vitality and power of fertilizing for several days. In certain animals, e. g., bats, it has been proved that spermatozoa retained in the female passages for several months are capable of fertilizing. 7
The spermatozoa are developed from the primitive germ cells which have become imbedded in the testes, and the stages of their development are very similar to those of the maturation of the ovum. The primary germ cells undergo division and produce a number of cells termed spermatogonia, and from these the primary spermatocytes are derived. Each primary spermatocyte divides into two secondary spermatocytes, and each secondary spermatocyte into two spermatids or young spermatozoa; from this it will be seen that a primary spermatocyte gives rise to four spermatozoa. On comparing this process with that of the maturation of the ovum (Fig. 7) it will be observed that the primary spermatocyte gives rise to two cells, the secondary spermatocytes, and the primary oöcyte to two cells, the secondary oöcyte and the first polar body. Again, the two secondary spermatocytes by their subdivision give origin to four spermatozoa, and the secondary oöcyte and first polar body to four cells, the mature ovum and three polar bodies. In the development of the spermatozoa, as in the maturation of the ovum, there is a reduction of the nuclear chromosomes to one-half of those present in the primary spermatocyte. But here the similarity ends, for it must be noted that the four spermatozoa are of equal size, and each is capable of fertilizing a mature ovum, whereas the three polar bodies are not only very much smaller than the mature ovum but are incapable of further development, and may be regarded as abortive ova.
FIG. 8– The process of fertilization in the ovum of a mouse. (After Sobotta.) (See enlarged image)
Fertilization consists in the union of the spermatozoön with the mature ovum (Fig. 8). Nothing is known regarding the fertilization of the human ovum, but the various stages of the process have been studied in other mammals, and from the knowledge so obtained it is believed that fertilization of the human ovum takes place in the lateral or ampullary part of the uterine tube, and the ovum is then conveyed along the tube to the cavity of the uterus—a journey probably occupying seven or eight days and during which the ovum loses its corona radiata and zona striata and undergoes segmentation. Sometimes the fertilized ovum is arrested in the uterine tube, and there undergoes development, giving rise to a tubal pregnancy; or it may fall into the abdominal cavity and produce an abdominal pregnancy. Occasionally the ovum is not expelled from the follicle when the latter ruptures, but is fertilized within the follicle and produces what is known as an ovarian pregnancy. Under normal conditions only one spermatozoön enters the yolk and takes part in the process of fertilization. At the point where the spermatozoönis about to pierce, the yolk is drawn out into a conical elevation, termed the cone of attraction. As soon as the spermatozoön has entered the yolk, the peripheral portion of the latter is transformed into a membrane, the vitelline membrane which prevents the passage of additional spermatozoa. Occasionally a second spermatozoön may enter the yolk, thus giving rise to a condition of polyspermy: when this occurs the ovum usually develops in an abnormal manner and gives rise to a monstrosity. Having pierced the yolk, the spermatozoön loses its tail, while its head and connecting piece assume the form of a nucleus containing a cluster of chromosomes. This constitutes the male pronucleus, and associated with it there are a centriole and centrosome. The male pronucleus passes more deeply into the yolk, and coincidently with this the granules of the cytoplasm surrounding it become radially arranged. The male and female pronuclei migrate toward each other, and, meeting near the center of the yolk, fuse to form a new nucleus, the segmentation nucleus, which therefore contains both male and female nuclear substance; the former transmits the individualities of the male ancestors, the latter those of the female ancestors, to the future embryo. By the union of the male and female pronuclei the number of chromosomes is restored to that which is present in the nuclei of the somatic cells.
5. Segmentation of the Fertilized Ovum
The early segmentation of the human ovum has not yet been observed, but judging from what is known to occur in other mammals it may be regarded as certain that the process starts immediately after the ovum has been fertilized, i. e., while the ovum is in the uterine tube. The segmentation nucleus exhibits the usual mitotic changes, and these are succeeded by a division of the ovum into two cells of nearly equal size. 5 The process is repeated again and again, so that the two cells are succeeded by four, eight, sixteen, thirty-two, and so on, with the result that a mass of cells is found within the zona striata, and to this mass the term morula is applied (Fig. 9). The segmentation of the mammalian ovum may not take place in the regular sequence of two, four, eight, etc., since one of the two first formed cells may subdivide more rapidly than the other, giving rise to a three-or a five-cell stage. The cells of the morula are at first closely aggregated, but soon they become arranged into an outer or peripheral layer, the trophoblast, which does not contribute to the formation of the embryo proper, and an inner cell-mass, from which the embryo is developed. Fluid collects between the trophoblast and the greater part of the inner cell-mass, and thus the morula is converted into a vesicle, the blastodermic vesicle (Fig. 10). The inner cell-mass remains in contact, however, with the trophoblast at one pole of the ovum; this is named the embryonic pole, since it indicates the situation where the future embryo will be developed. The cells of the trophoblast become differentiated into two strata: anouter, termed the syncytium or syncytiotrophoblast, so named because it consists of a layer of protoplasm studded with nuclei, but showing no evidence of subdivision into cells; and an inner layer, the cytotrophoblast or layer of Langhans, in which the cell outlines are defined. As already stated, the cells of the trophoblast do not contribute to the formation of the embryo proper; they form the ectoderm of the chorion and play an important part in the development of the placenta. On the deep surface of the inner cell-mass a layer of flattened cells, the entoderm, is differentiated and quickly assumes the form of a small sac, the yolk-sac. Spaces appear between the remaining cells of the mass (Fig. 11), and by the enlargement and coalescence of these spaces a cavity, termed the amniotic cavity (Fig. 12), is gradually developed. The floor of this cavity is formed by the embryonic disk composed of a layer of prismatic cells, the embryonic ectoderm, derived from the inner cell-mass and lying in apposition with the entoderm. 1
FIG. 10– Blastodermic vesicle of Vespertilio murinus. (After van Beneden.) (See enlarged image)
FIG. 11– Section through embryonic disk of Vespertilio murinus. (After van Beneden.) (See enlarged image)
FIG. 12– Section through embryonic area of Vespertilio murinus to show the formation of the amniotic cavity. (After van Beneden.) (See enlarged image)
The Primitive Streak; Formation of the Mesoderm.—The embryonic disk becomes oval and then pear-shaped, the wider end being directed forward. Near the narrow, posterior end an opaque streak, the primitive streak (Figs. 13 and 14), makes its appearance and extends along the middle of the disk for about one-half of its length; at the anterior end of the streak there is a knob-like thickening termed Hensen’s knot. A shallow groove, the primitive groove, appears on the surface of the streak, and the anterior end of this groove communicates by means of an aperture, the blastophore, with the yolk-sac. The primitive streak is produced by a thickening of the axial part of the ectoderm, the cells of which multiply, grow downward, and blend with those of the subjacent entoderm (Fig. 15). From the sides of the primitive streak a third layer of cells, the mesoderm, extends lateralward between the ectoderm and entoderm; the caudal end of the primitive streak forms the cloacal membrane. 2
FIG. 13– Surface view of embryo of a rabbit. (After Kölliker.) arg. Embryonic disk. pr. Primitive streak. (See enlarged image)
The extension of the mesoderm takes place throughout the whole of the embryonic and extra-embryonic areas of the ovum, except in certain regions. One of these is seen immediately in front of the neural tube. Here the mesoderm extends forward in the form of two crescentic masses, which meet in the middle line so as to enclose behind them an area which is devoid of mesoderm. Over this area the ectoderm and entoderm come into direct contact with each other and constitute a thin membrane, the buccopharyngeal membrane, which forms a septum between the primitive mouth and pharynx. In front of the buccopharyngeal area, where the lateral crescents of mesoderm fuse in the middle line, the pericardium is afterward developed, and this region is therefore designated the pericardial area. A second region where the mesoderm is absent, at least for a time, is that immediately in front of the pericardial area. This is termed the proamniotic area, and is the region where the proamnion is developed; in man, however, a proamnion is apparently never formed. A third region is at the hind end of the embryo where the ectoderm and entoderm come into apposition and form the cloacal membrane. 3
The blastoderm now consists of three layers, named from without inward: ectoderm, mesoderm, and entoderm; each has distinctive characteristics and gives rise to certain tissues of the body. 6 4
FIG. 14– Surface view of embryo of Hylobates concolor. (After Selenka.) The amnion has been opened to expose the embryonic disk. (See enlarged image)
FIG. 15– Series of transverse sections through the embryonic disk of Tarsius. (After Hubrecht.) Section I passes through the disk, in front of Hensen’s knot and shows only the ectoderm and entoderm. Sections II, III, and IV pass through Hensen’s knot, which is seen in V tapering away into the primitive streak. In III, IV, and V the mesoderm is seen springing from the keel-like thickening of the ectoderm, which in III and IV is observed to be continuous into the entoderm. (See enlarged image)
Ectoderm.—The ectoderm consists of columnar cells, which are, however, somewhat flattened or cubical toward the margin of the embryonic disk. It forms the whole of the nervous system, the epidermis of the skin, the lining cells of the sebaceous, sudoriferous, and mammary glands, the hairs and nails, the epithelium of the nose and adjacent air sinuses, and that of the cheeks and roof of the mouth. From it also are derived the enamel of the teeth, and the anterior lobe of the hypophysis cerebri, the epithelium of the cornea, conjunctiva, and lacrimal glands, and the neuro-epithelium of the sense organs. 5
Entoderm.—The entoderm consists at first of flattened cells, which subsequently become columnar. It forms the epithelial lining of the whole of the digestive tube excepting part of the mouth and pharynx and the terminal part of the rectum (which are lined by involutions of the ectoderm), the lining cells of all the glands which open into the digestive tube, including those of the liver and pancreas, the epithelium of the auditory tube and tympanic cavity, of the trachea, bronchi, and air cells of the lungs, of the urinary bladder and part of the urethra, and that which lines the follicles of the thyroid gland and thymus. 6
FIG. 16– A series of transverse sections through an embryo of the dog. (After Bonnet.) Section I is the most anterior. In V the neural plate is spread out nearly flat. The series shows the uprising of the neural folds to form the neural canal. a. Aortæ. c. Intermediate cell mass. ect. Ectoderm. ent. Entoderm. h, h. Rudiments of endothelial heart tubes. In III, IV, and V the scattered cells represented between the entoderm and splanchnic layer of mesoderm are the vasoformative cells which give origin in front, according to Bonnet, to the heart tubes, h; l.p. Lateral plate still undivided in I, II, and III; in IV and V split into somatic (sm) and splanchnic (sp) layers of mesoderm. mes. Mesoderm. p. Pericardium. so. Primitive segment. (See enlarged image)
Mesoderm.—The mesoderm consists of loosely arranged branched cells surrounded by a considerable amount of intercellular fluid. From it the remaining tissues of the body are developed. The endothelial lining of the heart and blood-vessels and the blood corpuscles are, however, regarded by some as being of entodermal origin. 7
As the mesoderm develops between the ectoderm and entoderm it is separated into lateral halves by the neural tube and notochord, presently to be described. A longitudinal groove appears on the dorsal surface of either half and divides it into a medial column, the paraxial mesoderm, lying on the side of the neural tube, and a lateral portion, the lateral mesoderm. The mesoderm in the floor of the groove connects the paraxial with the lateral mesoderm and is known as the intermediate cell-mass; in it the genito-urinary organs are developed. The lateral mesoderm splits into two layers, an outer or somatic, which becomes applied to the inner surface of the ectoderm, and with it forms the somatopleure; and an inner or splanchnic, which adheres to the entoderm, and with it forms the splanchnopleure (Fig. 16). The space between the two layers of the lateral mesoderm is termed the celom. 8
Note 5. In the mammalian ova the nutritive yolk or deutoplasm is small in amount and uniformly distributed throughout the cytoplasm; such ova undergo complete division during the process of segmentation, and are therefore termed holoblastic. In the ova of birds, reptiles, and fishes where the nutritive yolk forms by far the larger portion of the egg, the cleavage is limited to the formative yolk, and is therefore only partial; such ova are termed meroblastic. Again, it has been observed, in some of the lower animals, that the pronuclei do not fuse but merely lie in apposition. At the commencement of the segmentation process the chromosomes of the two pronuclei group themselves around the equator of the nuclear spindle and then divide; an equal number of male and female chromosomes travel to the opposite poles of the spindle, and thus the male and female pronuclei contribute equal shares of chromatin to the nuclei of the two cells which result from the subdivision of the fertilized ovum. [back]
Note 6. The mode of formation of the germ layers in the human ovum has not yet been observed; in the youngest known human ovum (viz., that described by Bryce and Teacher), all three layers are already present and the mesoderm is split into its two layers. The extra-embryonic celom is of considerable size, and scattered mesodermal strands are seen stretching between the mesoderm of the yolk-sac and that of the chorion.
In front of the primitive streak two longitudinal ridges, caused by a folding up of the ectoderm, make their appearance, one on either side of the middle line (Fig. 16). These are named the neural folds; they commence some little distance behind the anterior end of the embryonic disk, where they are continuous with each other, and from there gradually extend backward, one on either side of the anterior end of the primitive streak. Between these folds is a shallow median groove, the neural groove (Figs. 16, 17). The groove gradually deepens as the neural folds become elevated, and ultimately the folds meet and coalesce in the middle line and convert the groove into a closed tube, the neural tube or canal (Fig. 18), the ectodermal wall of which forms the rudiment of the nervous system. After the coalescence of the neural folds over the anterior end of the primitive streak, the blastopore no longer opens on the surface but into the closed canal of the neural tube, and thus a transitory communication, the neurenteric canal, is established between the neural tube and the primitive digestive tube. The coalescence of the neural folds occurs first in the region of the hind-brain, and from there extends forward and backward; toward the end of the third week the front opening (anterior neuropore) of the tube finally closes at the anterior end of the future brain, and forms a recess which is in contact, for a time, with the overlying ectoderm; the hinder part of the neural groove presents for a time a rhomboidal shape, and to thisexpanded portion the term sinus rhomboidalis has been applied (Fig. 18). Before the neural groove is closed a ridge of ectodermal cells appears along the prominent margin of each neural fold; this is termed the neural crest or ganglion ridge, and from it the spinal and cranial nerve ganglia and the ganglia of the sympathetic nervous system are developed. By the upward growth of the mesoderm the neural tube is ultimately separated from the overlying ectoderm. 1
FIG. 18– Chick embryo of thirty-three hours’ incubation, viewed from the dorsal aspect. X 30. (From Duval’s “Atlas d’Embryologie.”) (See enlarged image)
The cephalic end of the neural groove exhibits several dilatations, which, when the tube is closed, assume the form of three vesicles; these constitute the three primary cerebral vesicles, and correspond respectively to the future fore-brain (prosencephalon), mid-brain (mesencephalon), and hind-brain (rhombencephalon) (Fig. 18). The walls of the vesicles are developed into the nervous tissue and neuroglia of the brain, and their cavities are modified to form its ventricles. The remainderof the tube forms the medulla spinalis or spinal cord; from its ectodermal wall the nervous and neuroglial elements of the medulla spinalis are developed while the cavity persists as the central canal.
7. The Notochord
The notochord (Fig. 19) consists of a rod of cells situated on the ventral aspect of the neural tube; it constitutes the foundation of the axial skeleton, since around it the segments of the vertebral column are formed. Its appearance synchronizes with that of the neural tube. On the ventral aspect of the neural groove an axial thickening of the entoderm takes place; this thickening assumes the appearance of a furrow—the chordal furrow—the margins of which come into contact, and so convert it into a solid rod of cells—the notochord—which is then separated from the entoderm. It extends throughout the entire length of the future vertebral column, and reaches as far as the anterior end of the mid-brain, where it ends in a hook-like extremity in the region of the future dorsum sellæ of the sphenoid bone. It lies at first between the neural tube and the entoderm of the yolk-sac, but soon becomes separated from them by the mesoderm, which grows medial-ward and surrounds it. From the mesoderm surrounding the neural tube and notochord, the skull and vertebral column, and the membranes of the brain and medulla spinalis are developed.
8. The Primitive Segments
Toward the end of the second week transverse segmentation of the paraxial mesoderm begins, and it is converted into a series of well-defined, more or less cubical masses, the primitive segments (Figs. 18, 19, 20), which occupy the entire length of the trunk on either side of the middle line from the occipital region of the head. Each segment contains a central cavity—myocœl—which, however, is soon filled with angular and spindle-shaped cells. 1
FIG. 20– Dorsum of human embryo, 2.11 mm. in length. (After Eternod.) (See enlarged image)
The primitive segments lie immediately under the ectoderm on the lateral aspect of the neural tube and notochord, and are connected to the lateral mesoderm by the intermediate cell-mass. Those of the trunk may be arranged in the following groups, viz.: cervical 8, thoracic 12, lumbar 5, sacral 5, and coccygeal from 5 to 8. Those of the occipital region of the head are usually described as being four in number. In mammals primitive segments of the head can be recognized only in the occipital region, but a study of the lower vertebrates leads to the belief that they are present also in the anterior part of the head, and that altogether nine segments are represented in the cephalic region.
9. Separation of the Embryo
The embryo increases rapidly in size, but the circumference of the embryonic disk, or line of meeting of the embryonic and amniotic parts of the ectoderm, is of relatively slow growth and gradually comes to form a constriction between the embryo and the greater part of the yolk-sac. By means of this constriction, which corresponds to the future umbilicus, a small part of the yolk-sac is enclosed within the embryo and constitutes the primitive digestive tube. 1
FIG. 21– Section through the embryo which is represented in Fig. 17. (After Graf Spee.) (See enlarged image)
The embryo increases more rapidly in length than in width, and its cephalic and caudal ends soon extend beyond the corresponding parts of the circumference of the embryonic disk and are bent in a ventral direction to form the cephalic and caudal folds respectively (Figs. 26 and 27). The cephalic fold is first formed, and as the proamniotic area (page 47) lying immediately in front of the pericardial area (page 47) forms the anterior limit of the circumference of the embryonic disk, the forward growth of the head necessarily carries with it the posterior end of the pericardial area, so that this area and the buccopharyngeal membrane are folded back under the head of the embryo which now encloses a diverticulum of the yolk-sac named the fore-gut. The caudal end of the embryo is at first connected to the chorion by a band of mesoderm called the body-stalk, but with the formation of the caudal fold the body-stalk assumes a ventral position; a diverticulum of the yolk-sac extends into the tail fold and is termed the hind-gut. Between the fore-gut and the hind-gut there exists for a time a wide opening into the yolk-sac, but the latter is gradually reduced to a small pear-shaped sac (sometimes termed the umbilical vesicle), and the channel of communication is at the same time narrowed and elongated to form a tube called the vitelline duct.
10. The Yolk-sac
The yolk-sac (Figs. 22 and 23) is situated on the ventral aspect of the embryo; it is lined by entoderm, outside of which is a layer of mesoderm. It is filled with fluid, the vitelline fluid, which possibly may be utilized for the nourishment of the embryo during the earlier stages of its existence. Blood is conveyed to the wall of the sac by the primitive aortæ, and after circulating through a wide-meshed capillary plexus, is returned by the vitelline veins to the tubular heart of the embryo. This constitutes the vitelline circulation, and by means of it nutritive material is absorbed from the yolk-sac and conveyed to the embryo. At the end of the fourth week the yolk-sac presents the appearance of a small pear-shaped vesicle (umbilical vesicle) opening into the digestive tube by a long narrow tube, the vitelline duct. The vesicle can be seen in the after-birth as a small, somewhat oval-shaped body whose diameter varies from 1 mm. to 5 mm.; it is situated between the amnion and the chorion and may lie on or at a varying distance from the placenta. As a rule the duct undergoes complete obliteration during the seventh week, but in about three per cent. of cases its proximal part persists as a diverticulum from the small intestine, Meckel’s diverticulum, which is situated about three or four feet above the ileocolic junction, and may be attached by a fibrous cord to the abdominal wall at the umbilicus. Sometimes a narrowing of the lumen of the ileum is seen opposite the site of attachment of the duct. 1
11. Development of the Fetal Membranes and Placenta
The Allantois (Figs. 25 to 28).—The allantois arises as a tubular diverticulum of the posterior part of the yolk-sac; when the hind-gut is developed the allantois is carried backward with it and then opens into the cloaca or terminal part of the hind-gut: it grows out into the body-stalk, a mass of mesoderm which lies below and around the tail end of the embryo. The diverticulum is lined by entoderm and covered by mesoderm, and in the latter are carried the allantoic or umbilical vessels. 1
In reptiles, birds, and many mammals the allantois becomes expanded into a vesicle which projects into the extra-embryonic celom. If its further development be traced in the bird, it is seen to project to the right side of the embryo, and, gradually expanding, it spreads over its dorsal surface as a flattened sac between the amnion and the serosa, and extending in all directions, ultimately surrounds the yolk. Its outer wall becomes applied to and fuses with the serosa, which lies immediately inside the shell membrane. Blood is carried to the allantoic sac by the two allantoic or umbilical arteries, which are continuous with the primitive aortæ, and after circulating through the allantoic capillaries, is returned to the primitive heart by the two umbilical veins. In this way the allantoic circulation, which is of the utmost importance in connection with the respiration and nutrition of the chick, is established. Oxygen is taken from, and carbonic acid is given up to the atmosphere through the egg-shell, while nutritive materials are at the same time absorbed by the blood from the yolk. 2
FIG. 24– Diagram showing earliest observed stage of human ovum. (See enlarged image)
FIG. 25– Diagram illustrating early formation of allantois and differentiation of body-stalk. (See enlarged image)
FIG. 26– Diagram showing later stage of allantoic development with commencing constriction of the yolk-sac. (See enlarged image)
FIG. 27– Diagram showing the expansion of amnion and delimitation of the umbilicus. (See enlarged image)
In man and other primates the nature of the allantois is entirely different from that just described. Here it exists merely as a narrow, tubular diverticulum of the hind-gut, and never assumes the form of a vesicle outside the embryo. With the formation of the amnion the embryo is, in most animals, entirely separated from the chorion, and is only again united to it when the allantoic mesoderm spreads over and becomes applied to its inner surface. The human embryo, on the other hand, as was pointed out by His, is never wholly separated from the chorion, itstail end being from the first connected with the chorion by means of a thick band of mesoderm, named the body-stalk (Bauchstiel); into this stalk the tube of the allantois extends (Fig. 21). 3
The Amnion.—The amnion is a membranous sac which surrounds and protects the embryo. It is developed in reptiles, birds, and mammals, which are hence called “Amniota;” but not in amphibia and fishes, which are consequently termed “Anamnia.” 4
In the human embryo the earliest stages of the formation of the amnion have not been observed; in the youngest embryo which has been studied the amnion was already present as a closed sac (Figs. 24 and 32), and, as indicated on page 46, appears in the inner cell-mass as a cavity. This cavity is roofed in by a single stratum of flattened, ectodermal cells, the amniotic ectoderm, and its floor consists of the prismatic ectoderm of the embryonic disk—the continuity between the roof and floor being established at the margin of the embryonic disk. Outside the amniotic ectoderm is a thin layer of mesoderm, which is continuous with that of the somatopleure and is connected by the body-stalk with the mesodermal lining of the chorion. 5
FIG. 28– Diagram illustrating a later stage in the development of the umbilical cord. (See enlarged image)
When first formed the amnion is in contact with the body of the embryo, but about the fourth or fifth week fluid (liquor amnii) begins to accumulate within it. This fluid increases in quantity and causes the amnion to expand and ultimately to adhere to the inner surface of the chorion, so that the extra-embryonic part of the celom is obliterated. The liquor amnii increases in quantity up to the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy, after which it diminishes somewhat; at the end of pregnancy it amounts to about 1 liter. It allows of the free movements of the fetus during the later stages of pregnancy, and also protects it by diminishing the risk of injury from without. It contains less than 2 per cent. of solids, consisting of urea and other extractives, inorganic salts, a small amount of protein, and frequently a trace of sugar. That some of the liquor amnii is swallowed by the fetus is proved by the fact that epidermal debris and hairs have been found among the contents of the fetal alimentary canal. 6
In reptiles, birds, and many mammals the amnion is developed in the following manner: At the point of constriction where the primitive digestive tube of the embryo joins the yolk-sac a reflection or folding upward of the somatopleure takes place. This, the amniotic fold (Fig. 29), first makes its appearance at the cephalic extremity, and subsequently at the caudal end and sides of the embryo, and gradually rising more and more, its different parts meet and fuse over the dorsal aspect of the embryo, and enclose a cavity, the amniotic cavity. After the fusion of the edges of the amniotic fold, the two layers of the fold become completely separated, the inner forming the amnion, the outer the false amnion or serosa. The space between the amnion and the serosa constitutes the extra-embryonic celom, and for a time communicates with the embryonic celom. 7
FIG. 29– Diagram of a transverse section, showing the mode of formation of the amnion in the chick. The amniotic folds have nearly united in the middle line. (From Quain’s Anatomy.) Ectoderm, blue; mesoderm, red; entoderm and notochord, black. (See enlarged image)
FIG. 30– Fetus of about eight weeks, enclosed in the amnion. Magnified a little over two diameters. (Drawn from stereoscopic photographs lent by Prof. A. Thomson, Oxford.) (See enlarged image)
The Umbilical Cord and Body-stalk.—The umbilical cord (Fig. 28) attaches the fetus to the placenta; its length at full time, as a rule, is about equal to the length of the fetus, i.e., about 50 cm., but it may be greatly diminished or increased. The rudiment of the umbilical cord is represented by the tissue which connects the rapidly growing embryo with the extra-embryonic area of the ovum. Included in this tissue are the body-stalk and the vitelline duct—the former containing the allantoic diverticulum and the umbilical vessels, the latter forming the communication between the digestive tube and the yolk-sac. The body-stalk is the posterior segment of the embryonic area, and is attached to the chorion. It consists of a plate of mesoderm covered by thickened ectoderm on which a trace of the neural groove can be seen, indicating its continuity with the embryo. Running through its mesoderm are the two umbilical arteries and the two umbilical veins, together with the canal of the allantois—the last being lined by entoderm (Fig. 31). Its dorsal surface is covered by the amnion, while its ventral surface is bounded by the extra-embryonic celom, and is in contact with the vitelline duct and yolk-sac. With the rapid elongation of the embryo and the formation of the tail fold, the body stalk comes to lie on the ventral surface of the embryo (Figs. 27 and 28), where its mesoderm blends with that of the yolk-sac and the vitelline duct. The lateral leaves of somatopleure then grow round on each side, and, meeting on the ventral aspect of the allantois, enclose the vitelline duct and vessels, together with a part of the extra-embryonic celom; the latter is ultimately obliterated. The cord is covered by a layer of ectoderm which is continuous with that of the amnion, and its various constitutents are enveloped by embryonic gelatinous tissue, jelly of Wharton. The vitelline vessels and duct, together with the right umbilical vein, undergo atrophy and disappear; and thus the cord, at birth, contains a pair of umbilical arteries and one (the left) umbilical vein. 8
FIG. 31– Model of human embryo 1.3 mm. long. (After Eternod.) (See enlarged image)
Implantation or Imbedding of the Ovum.—As described (page 44), fertilization of the ovum occurs in the lateral or ampullary end of the uterine tube and is immediately followed by segmentation. On reaching the cavity of the uterus the segmented ovum adheres like a parasite to the uterine mucous membrane, destroys the epithelium over the area of contact, and excavates for itself a cavity in the mucous membrane in which it becomes imbedded. In the ovum described byBryce and Teacher 7 the point of entrance was visible as a small gap closed by a mass of fibrin and leucocytes; in the ovum described by Peters, 8 the opening was covered by a mushroom-shaped mass of fibrin and blood-clot (Fig. 32), the narrow stalk of which plugged the aperture in the mucous membrane. Soon, however, all trace of the opening is lost and the ovum is then completely surrounded by the uterine mucous membrane. 9
The structure actively concerned in the process of excavation is the trophoblast of the ovum, which possesses the power of dissolving and absorbing the uterine tissues. The trophoblast proliferates rapidly and forms a network of branching processes which cover the entire ovum and invade and destroy the maternal tissues and open into the maternal bloodvessels, with the result that the spaces in the trophoblastic network are filled with maternal blood; these spaces communicate freely with one another and become greatly distended and form the intervillous space. 10
FIG. 32– Section through ovum imbedded in the uterine decidua. Semidiagrammatic. (After Peters.) am. Amniotic cavity. b.c. Blood-clot. b.s. Body-stalk. ect. Embryonic ectoderm. ent. Entoderm. mes. Mesoderm. m.v. Maternal vessels. tr. Trophoblast. u.e. Uterine epithelium. u.g. Uterine glands. y.s. Yolk-sac. (See enlarged image)
The Decidua.—Before the fertilized ovum reaches the uterus, the mucous membrane of the body of the uterus undergoes important changes and is then known as the decidua. The thickness and vascularity of the mucous membrane are greatly increased; its glands are elongated and open on its free surface by funnel-shaped orifices, while their deeper portions are tortuous and dilated into irregular spaces. The interglandular tissue is also increased in quantity, and is crowded with large round, oval, or polygonal cells, termed decidual cells. These changes are well advanced by the second month of pregnancy, when the mucous membrane consists of the following strata (Fig. 33): (1) stratum compactum, next the free surface; in this the uterine glands are only slightly expanded, and are lined by columnar cells; (2) stratum spongiosum, in which the gland tubes are greatly dilated and very tortuous, and are ultimately separated from one another by only a small amount of interglandular tissue, while their lining cells are flattened or cubical; (3) a thin unaltered or boundary layer, next the uterine muscular fibers, containing the deepest parts of the uterine glands, which are not dilated, and are lined with columnar epithelium; it is from this epithelium that the epithelial lining of the uterus is regenerated after pregnancy. Distinctive names are applied to different portions of the decidua. The part which covers in the ovum is named the decidua capsularis; the portion which intervenes between the ovum and the uterine wall is named the decidua basalis or decidua placentalis; it is here that the placenta is subsequently developed. The part of the decidua which lines the remainder of the body of the uterus is known as the decidua vera or decidua parietalis. 11
Coincidently with the growth of the embryo, the decidua capsularis is thinned and extended (Fig. 34) and the space between it and the decidua vera is gradually obliterated, so that by the third month of pregnancy the two are in contact. By the fifth month of pregnancy the decidua capsularis has practically disappeared, while during the succeeding months the decidua vera also undergoes atrophy, owing to the increased pressure. The glands of the stratum compactum are obliterated, and their epithelium is lost. In the stratum spongiosum the glands are compressed and appear as slit-like fissures, while their epithelium undergoes degeneration. In the unaltered or boundary layer, however, the glandular epithelium retains a columnar or cubical form. 12
FIG. 33– Diagrammatic sections of the uterine mucous membrane: A. The non-pregnant uterus. B. The pregnant uterus, showing the thickened mucous membrane and the altered condition of the uterine glands. (Kundrat and Engelmann.) (See enlarged image)
FIG. 34– Sectional plan of the gravid uterus in the third and fourth month. (Modified from Wagner.) (See enlarged image)
The Chorion (Figs. 23 to28).—The chorion consists of two layers: an outer formed by the primitive ectoderm or trophoblast, and an inner by the somatic mesoderm; with this latter the amnion is in contact. The trophoblast is made up of an internal layer of cubical or prismatic cells, the cytotrophoblast or layer of Langhans, and an external layer of richly nucleated protoplasm devoid of cell boundaries, the syncytiotrophoblast. It undergoes rapid proliferation and forms numerous processes, the chorionic villi, which invade and destroy the uterine decidua and at the same time absorb from it nutritive materials for the growth of the embryo. The chorionic villi are at first small and non-vascular, and consist of trophoblast only, but they increase in size and ramify, while the mesoderm, carrying branches of the umbilical vessels, grows into them, and in this way they are vascularized. Blood is carried to the villi by the branches of the umbilical arteries, and after circulating through the capillaries of the villi, is returned to the embryo by the umbilical veins. Until about the end of the second month of pregnancy the villi cover the entire chorion, and are almost uniform in size (Fig. 25), but after this they develop unequally. The greater part of the chorion is in contact with the decidua capsularis (Fig. 34), and over this portion the villi, with their contained vessels, undergo atrophy, so that by the fourth month scarcely a trace of them is left, and hence this part of the chorion becomes smooth, and is named the chorion læve; as it takes no share in the formation of the placenta, it is also named the non-placental part of the chorion. On the other hand, the villi on that part of the chorion which is in contact with the decidua placentalis increase greatly in size and complexity, and hence this part is named the chorion frondosum (Fig. 28). 13
FIG. 35– Transverse section of a chorionic villus. (See enlarged image)
FIG. 36– Primary chorionic villi. Diagrammatic. (Modified from Bryce.) (See enlarged image)
The Placenta.—The placenta connects the fetus to the uterine wall, and is the organ by means of which the nutritive, respiratory, and excretory functions of the fetus are carried on. It is composed of fetal and maternal portions. 14
FIG. 37– Secondary chorionic villi. Diagrammatic. (Modified from Bryce.) (See enlarged image)
Fetal Portion.—The fetal portion of the placenta consists of the villi of the chorion frondosum; these branch repeatedly, and increase enormously in size. These greatly ramified villi are suspended in the intervillous space, and are bathed in maternal blood, which is conveyed to the space by the uterine arteries and carried away by the uterine veins. A branch of an umbilical artery enters each villus and ends in a capillary plexus from which the blood is drained by a tributary of the umbilical vein. The vessels of the villus are surrounded by a thin layer of mesoderm consisting of gelatinous connective tissue, which is covered by two strata of ectodermal cells derived from the trophoblast: the deeper stratum, next the mesodermic tissue, represents the cytotrophoblast or layer of Langhans; the superficial, in contact with the maternal blood, the syncytiotrophoblast (Figs. 36 and 37). After the fifth month the two strata of cells are replaced by a single layer of somewhat flattened cells. 15
Maternal Portion.—The maternal portion of the placenta is formed by the decidua placentalis containing the intervillous space. As already explained, this space is produced by the enlargement and intercommunication of the spaces in the trophoblastic network. The changes involve the disappearance of the greater portion of the stratum compactum, but the deeper part of this layer persists and is condensed to form what is known as the basal plate. Between this plate and the uterine muscular fibres are the stratum spongiosum and the boundary layer; through these and the basal plate the uterine arteries and veins pass to and from the intervillous space. The endothelial lining of the uterine vessels ceases at the point where they terminate in the intervillous space which is lined by the syncytiotrophoblast. Portions of the stratum compactum persist and are condensed to form a series of septa, which extend from the basal plate through the thickness of the placenta and subdivide it into the lobules or cotyledons seen on the uterine surface of the detached placenta. 16
FIG. 38– Fetus in utero, between fifth and sixth months. (See enlarged image)
The fetal and maternal blood currents traverse the placenta, the former passing through the bloodvessels of the placental villi and the latter through the intervillous space (Fig. 39). The two currents do not intermingle, being separated from each other by the delicate walls of the villi. Nevertheless, the fetal blood is able to absorb, through the walls of the villi, oxygen and nutritive materials from the maternal blood, and give up to the latter its waste products. The blood, so purified, is carried back to the fetus by the umbilical vein. It will thus be seen that the placenta not only establishes a mechanical connection between the mother and the fetus, but subserves for the latter the purposes of nutrition, respiration, and excretion. In favor of the view that the placenta possesses certain selective powers may be mentioned the fact that glucose is more plentiful in the maternal than in the fetal blood. It is interesting to note also that the proportion of iron, and of lime and potash, in the fetus is increased during the last months of pregnancy. Further, there is evidence that the maternal leucocytes may migrate into the fetal blood, since leucocytes are much more numerous in the blood of the umbilical vein than in that of the umbilical arteries. 17
The placenta is usually attached near the fundus uteri, and more frequently on the posterior than on the anterior wall of the uterus. It may, however, occupy a lower position and, in rare cases, its site is close to the orificium internum uteri, which it may occlude, thus giving rise to the condition known as placenta previa. 18
FIG. 39– Scheme of placental circulation. (See enlarged image)
Separation of the Placenta.—After the child is born, the placenta and membranes are expelled from the uterus as the after-birth. The separation of the placenta from the uterine wall takes place through the stratum spongiosum, and necessarily causes rupture of the uterine vessels. The orifices of the torn vessels are, however, closed by the firm contraction of the uterine muscular fibers, and thus postpartum hemorrhage is controlled. The epithelial lining of the uterus is regenerated by the proliferation and extension of the epithelium which lines the persistent portions of the uterine glands in the unaltered layer of the decidua. 19
The expelled placenta appears as a discoid mass which weighs about 450 gm. and has a diameter of from 15 to 20 cm. Its average thickness is about 3 cm., but this diminishes rapidly toward the circumference of the disk, which is continuous with the membranes. Its uterine surface is divided by a series of fissures into Iobules or cotyledons, the fissures containing the remains of the septa which extended between the maternal and fetal portions. Most of these septa end in irregular or pointed processes; others, especially those near the edge of the placenta, pass through its thickness and are attached to the chorion. In the early months these septa convey branches of the uterine arteries which open into the intervillous space on the surfaces of the septa. The fetal surface of the placenta is smooth, being closely invested by the amnion. Seen through the latter, the chorion presents a mottled appearance, consisting of gray, purple, or yellowish areas. The umbilical cord is usually attached near the center of the placenta, but may be inserted anywhere between the center and the margin; in some cases it is inserted into the membranes, i. e., the velamentous insertion. From the attachment of the cord the larger branches of the umbilical vessels radiate under the amnion, the veins being deeper and larger than the arteries. The remains of the vitelline duct and yolk-sac may be sometimes observed beneath the amnion, close to the cord, the former as an attenuated thread, the latter as a minute sac. 20
On section, the placenta presents a soft, spongy appearance, caused by the greatly branched villi; surrounding them is a varying amount of maternal blood giving the dark red color to the placenta. Many of the larger villi extend from the chorionic to the decidual surface, while others are attached to the septa which separate the cotyledons; but the great majority of the villi hang free in the intervillous space.
12. The Branchial Region
The Branchial or Visceral Arches and Pharyngeal Pouches.—In the lateral walls of the anterior part of the fore-gut five pharyngeal pouches appear (Fig. 42); each of the upper four pouches is prolonged into a dorsal and a ventral diverticulum. Over these pouches corresponding indentations of the ectoderm occur, forming what are known as the branchial or outer pharyngeal grooves. The intervening mesoderm is pressed aside and the ectoderm comes for a time into contact with the entodermal lining of the fore-gut, and the two layers unite along the floors of the grooves to form thin closing membranes between the fore-gut and the exterior. Later the mesoderm again penetrates between the entoderm and the ectoderm. In gill-bearing animals the closing membranes disappear, and the grooves becomecomplete clefts, the gill-clefts, opening from the pharynx on to the exterior; perforation, however, does not occur in birds or mammals. The grooves separate a series of rounded bars or arches, the branchial or visceral arches, in which thickening of the mesoderm takes place (Figs. 40 and 41). The dorsal ends of these arches are attached to the sides of the head, while the ventral extremities ultimately meet in the middle line of the neck. In all, six arches make their appearance, but of these only the first four are visible externally. The first arch is named the mandibular, and the second the hyoid; the others have no distinctive names. In each arch a cartilaginous bar, consisting of right and left halves, is developed, and with each of these there is one of the primitive aortic arches. 1
FIG. 42– Floor of pharynx of embryo shown in Fig. 40. (See enlarged image)
The mandibular arch lies between the first branchial groove and the stomodeum; from it are developed the lower lip, the mandible, the muscles of mastication, and the anterior part of the tongue. Its cartilaginous bar is formed by what are known as Meckel’s cartilages (right and left) (Fig. 43); above this the incus is developed. The dorsal end of each cartilage is connected with the ear-capsule and is ossified to form the malleus; the ventral ends meet each other in the region of the symphysis menti, and are usually regarded as undergoing ossification to form that portion of the mandible which contains the incisor teeth. The intervening part of the cartilage disappears; the portion immediately adjacent to the malleus is replaced by fibrous membrane, which constitutes the spheno-mandibular ligament, while from the connective tissue covering the remainder of the cartilage the greater part of the mandible is ossified. From the dorsal ends of the mandibular arch a triangular process, the maxillary process, grows forward on either side and forms the cheek and lateral part of the upper lip. The second or hyoid arch assists in forming the side and front of the neck. From its cartilage are developed the styloid process, stylohyoid ligament, and lesser cornu of the hyoid bone. The stages probablyarises in the upper part of this arch. The cartilage of the third arch gives origin to the greater cornu of the hyoid bone. The ventral ends of the second and third arches unite with those of the opposite side, and form a transverse band, from which the body of the hyoid bone and the posterior part of the tongue are developed. The ventral portions of the cartilages of the fourth and fifth arches unite to form the thyroid cartilage; from the cartilages of the sixth arch the cricoid and arytenoid cartilages and the cartilages of the trachea are developed. The mandibular and hyoid arches grow more rapidly than those behind them, with the result that the latter become, to a certain extent, telescoped within the former, and a deep depression, the sinus cervicalis, is formed on either side of the neck. This sinus is bounded in front by the hyoid arch, and behind by the thoracic wall; it is ultimately obliterated by the fusion of its walls. 2
FIG. 43– Head and neck of a human embryo eighteen weeks old, with Meckel’s cartilage and hyoid bar exposed. (After Kölliker.) (See enlarged image)
FIG. 44– Under surface of the head of a human embryo about twenty-nine days old. (After His.) (See enlarged image)
From the first branchial groove the concha auriculæ and external acoustic meatus are developed, while around the groove there appear, on the mandibular and hyoid arches, a number of swellings from which the auricula or pinna is formed. The first pharyngeal pouch is prolonged dorsally to form the auditory tube and the tympanic cavity; the closing membrane between the mandibular and hyoid arches is invaded by mesoderm, and forms the tympanic membrane. No traces of the second, third, and fourth branchial grooves persist. The inner part of the second pharyngeal pouch is named the sinus tonsillaris; in it the tonsil is developed, above which a trace of the sinus persists as the supratonsillar fossa. The fossa of Rosenmüller or lateral recess of the pharynx is by some regarded as a persistent part of the second pharyngeal pouch, but it is probably developed as a secondary formation. From the third pharyngeal pouch the thymus arises as an entodermal diverticulum on either side, and from the fourth pouches small diverticula project and become incorporated with the thymus, but in man these diverticula probably never form true thymus tissue. The parathyroids also arise as diverticula from the third and fourth pouches. From the fifth pouches the ultimobranchial bodies originate and are enveloped by the lateral prolongations of the median thyroid rudiment; they do not, however, form true thyroid tissue, nor are any traces of them found in the human adult. 3
The Nose and Face.—During the third week two areas of thickened ectoderm, the olfactory areas, appear immediately under the fore-brain in the anterior wall of the stomodeum, one on either side of a region termed the fronto-nasal process (Fig. 44). By the upgrowth of the surrounding parts these areas are converted into pits, the olfactory pits, which indent the fronto-nasal process and divide it into a medial and two lateral nasal processes (Fig. 45). The rounded lateral angles of the medial process constitute the globular processes of His. The olfactory pits form the rudiments of the nasal cavities, and from their ectodermal lining the epithelium of the nasal cavities, with the exception of that of the inferior meatuses, is derived. The globular processes are prolonged backward as plates, termed the nasal laminæ: these laminæ are at first some distance apart, but, gradually approaching, they ultimately fuse and form the nasal septum; the processes themselves meet in the middle line, and form the premaxillæ and the philtrum or central part of the upper lip (Fig. 48). The depressed part of the medial nasal process between the globular processes forms the lower part of the nasal septum or columella; while above this is seen a prominent angle, which becomes the future apex (Figs. 45, 46), and still higher a flat area, the future bridge, of the nose. The lateral nasal processes form the alæ of the nose. 4
FIG. 45– Head end of human embryo of about thirty to thirty-one days. (From model by Peters.) (See enlarged image)
FIG. 46– Same embryo as shown in Fig. 45, with front wall of pharynx removed. (See enlarged image)
FIG. 47– Head of a human embryo of about eight weeks, in which the nose and mouth are formed. (His.) (See enlarged image)
FIG. 48– Diagram showing the regions of the adult face and neck related to the fronto-nasal process and the branchial arches. (See enlarged image)
FIG. 49– Primitive palate of a human embryo of thirty-seven to thirty-eight days. (From model by Peters.) On the left side the lateral wall of the nasal cavity has been removed. (See enlarged image)
FIG. 50– The roof of the mouth of a human embryo, aged about two and a half months, showing the mode of formation of the palate. (His.) (See enlarged image)
Continuous with the dorsal end of the mandibular arch, and growing forward from its cephalic border, is a triangular process, the maxillary process, the ventral extremity of which is separated from the mandibular arch by a > shaped notch (Fig. 44). The maxillary process forms the lateral wall and floor of the orbit, and in it are ossified the zygomatic bone and the greater part of the maxilla; it meets with the lateral nasal process, from which, however, it is separated for a time by a groove, the naso-optic furrow, that extends from the furrow encircling the eyeball to the olfactory pit. The maxillary processes ultimately fuse with the lateral nasal and globular processes, and form the lateral parts of the upper lip and the posterior boundaries of the nares (Figs. 47, 48). From the third to the fifth month the nares are filled by masses of epithelium, on the breaking down and disappearance of which the permanent openings are produced. The maxillary process also gives rise to the lower portion of the lateral wall of the nasal cavity. The roof of the nose and the remaining parts of the lateral wall, viz., the ethmoidal labyrinth, the inferior nasal concha, the lateral cartilage, and the lateral crus of the alar cartilage, are developed in the lateral nasal process. By the fusion of themaxillary and nasal processes in the roof of the stomodeum the primitive palate (Fig. 49) is formed, and the olfactory pits extend backward above it. The posterior end of each pit is closed by an epithelial membrane, the bucco-nasal membrane, formed by the apposition of the nasal and stomodeal epithelium. By the rupture of these membranes the primitive choanæ or openings between the olfactory pits and the stomodeum are established. The floor of the nasal cavity is completed by the development of a pair of shelf-like palatine processes which extend medial-ward from the maxillary processes (Figs. 50 and 51); these coalesce with each other in the middle line, and constitute the entire palate, except a small part in front which is formed by the premaxillary bones. Two apertures persist for a time between the palatine processes and the premaxillæ and represent the permanent channels which in the lower animals connect the nose and mouth. The union of the parts which form the palate commences in front, the premaxillary and palatine processes joining in the eighth week, while the region of the future hard palate is completed by the ninth, and that of the soft palate by the eleventh week. By the completion of the palate the permanent choanæ are formed and are situated a considerable distance behind the primitive choanæ. The deformity known as cleft palate results from a non-union of the palatine processes, and that of harelip through a non-union of the maxillary and globular processes (see page 199). The nasal cavity becomes divided by a vertical septum, which extends downward and backward from the medial nasal process and nasal laminæ, and unites below with the palatine processes. Into this septum a plate of cartilage extends from the under aspect of the ethmoid plate of the chodrocranium. The anterior part of this cartilaginous plate persists as the septal cartilage of the nose and the medial crus of the alar cartilage, but the posterior and upper parts are replaced by the vomer and perpendicular plate of the ethmoid. On either side of the nasal septum, at its lower and anterior part, the ectoderm is invaginated to form a blind pouch or diverticulum, which extends backward and upward into the nasal septum and is supported by a curved plate of cartilage. These pouches form the rudiments of the vomero-nasal organs of Jacobson, which open below, close to the junction of the premaxillary and maxillary bones. 5
FIG. 51– Frontal section of nasal cavities of a human embryo 28 mm. long. (Kollmann.) (See enlarged image)
The Limbs.—The limbs begin to make their appearance in the third week as small elevations or buds at the side of the trunk (Fig. 52). Prolongations from the muscle- and cutis-plates of several primitive segments extend into each bud, and carry with them the anterior divisions of the corresponding spinal nerves. The nerves supplying the limbs indicate the number of primitive segments which contribute to their formation—the upper limb being derived from seven, viz., fourth cervical to second thoracic inclusive, and the lower limb from ten, viz., twelfth thoracic to fourth sacral inclusive. The axial part of the mesoderm of the limb-bud becomes condensed and converted into its cartilaginous skeleton, and by the ossification of this the bones of the limbs are formed. By the sixth week the three chief divisions of the limbs are marked off by furrows—the upper into arm, forearm, and hand; the lower into thigh, leg, and foot (Fig. 53). The limbs are at first directed backward nearly parallel to the long axis of the trunk, and each presents two surfaces and two borders. Of the surfaces, one—the future flexor surface of the limb—is directed ventrally; the other, the extensor surface, dorsally; one border, the preaxial, looks forward toward the cephalic end of the embryo, and the other, the postaxial, backward toward the caudal end. The lateral epicondyle of the humerus, the radius, and the thumb lie along the preaxial border of the upper limb; and the medial epicondyle of the femur, the tibia, and the great toe along the corresponding border of the lower limb. The preaxial part is derived from the anterior segments, the postaxial from the posterior segments of the limb-bud; and this explains, to a large extent, the innervation of the adult limb, the nerves of the more anterior segments being distributed along the preaxial (radial or tibial), and those of the more posterior along the postaxial (ulnar or fibular) border of the limb. The limbs next undergo a rotation or torsion through an angle of 90° around their long axes the rotation being effected almost entirely at the limb girdles. In the upper limb the rotation is outward and forward; in the lower limb, inward and backward. As a consequence of this rotation the preaxial (radial) border of the fore-limb is directed lateralward, and the preaxial (tibial) border of the hind-limb is directed medialward; thus the flexor surface of the fore-limb is turned forward, and that of the hind-limb backward.
13. Development of the Body Cavities
In the human embryo described by Peters the mesoderm outside the embryonic disk is split into two layers enclosing an extra-embryonic cœlom; there is no trace of an intra-embryonic cœlom. At a later stage four cavities are formed within the embryo, viz., one on either side within the mesoderm of the pericardial area, and one in either lateral mass of the general mesoderm. All these are at first independent of each other and of the extra-embryonic celom, but later they become continuous. The two cavities in the general mesoderm unite on the ventral aspect of the gut and form the pleuro-peritoneal cavity, which becomes continuous with the remains of the extra-embryonic celom around the umbilicus; the two cavities in the pericardial area rapidly join to form a single pericardial cavity, and this from two lateral diverticula extend caudalward to open into the pleuro-peritoneal cavity (Fig. 54). 1
FIG. 54– Figure obtained by combining several successive sections of a human embryo of about the fourth week (From Kollmann.) The upper arrow is in the pleuroperitoneal opening, the lower in the pleuropericardial. (See enlarged image)
Between the two latter diverticula is a mass of mesoderm containing the ducts of Cuvier, and this is continuous ventrally with the mesoderm in which the umbilical veins are passing to the sinus venosus. A septum of mesoderm thus extends across the body of the embryo. It is attached in front to the body-wall between the pericardium and umbilicus; behind to the body-wall at the level of the second cervical segment; laterally it is deficient where the pericardial and pleuro-peritoneal cavities communicate, while it is perforated in the middle line by the foregut. This partition is termed the septum transversum, and is at first a bulky plate of tissue. As development proceeds the dorsal end of the septum is carried gradually caudalward, and when it reaches the fifth cervical segment muscular tissue with the phrenic nerve grows into it. It continues to recede, however, until it reaches the position of the adult diaphragm on the bodies of the upper lumbar vertebræ. The liver buds grow into the septum transversum and undergo development there. 2
The lung buds meantime have grown out from the fore-gut, and project laterally into the forepart of the pleuro-peritoneal cavity; the developing stomach and liver are imbedded in the septum transversum; caudal to this the intestines project into the back part of the pleuro-peritoneal cavity (Fig. 55). Owing to the descent of the dorsal end of the septum transversum the lung buds come to lie above the septum and thus pleural and peritoneal portions of the pleuro-peritoneal cavity (still, however, in free communication with one another) may be recognized; the pericardial cavity opens into the pleural part. 3
FIG. 55– Upper part of celom of human embryo of 6.8 mm., seen from behind. (From model by Piper.) (See enlarged image)
The ultimate separation of the permanent cavities from one another is effected by the growth of a ridge of tissue on either side from the mesoderm surrounding the duct of Cuvier (Figs. 54, 55). The front part of this ridge grows across and obliterates the pleuro-pericardial opening; the hinder part grows across the pleuro-peritoneal opening. 4
FIG. 56– Diagram of transverse section through rabbit embryo. (After Keith.) (See enlarged image)
With the continued growth of the lungs the pleural cavities are pushed forward in the body-wall toward the ventral median line, thus separating the pericardium from the lateral thoracic walls (Fig. 53). The further development of the peritoneal cavity has been described with the development of the digestive tube (page 168 et seq.). 5
14. The Form of the Embryo at Different Stages of Its Growth
First Week.—During this period the ovum is in the uterine tube. Having been fertilized in the upper part of the tube, it slowly passes down, undergoing segmentation, and reaches the uterus. Peters 9 described a specimen, the age of which he reckoned as from three to four days. It was imbedded in the decidua on the posterior wall of the uterus and enveloped by a decidua capsularis, the central part of which, however, consisted merely of a layer of fibrin. The ovum was in the form of a sac, the outer wall of which consisted of a layer of trophoblast; inside this was a thin layer of mesoderm composed of round, oval, and spindle-shaped cells. Numerous villous processes—some consisting of trophoblast only, others possessing a core of mesoderm—projected from the surface of the ovum into the surrounding decidua. Inside this sac the rudiment of the embryo was found in the form of a patch of ectoderm, covered by a small but completely closed amnion. It possessed a minute yolk-sac and was surrounded by mesoderm, which was connected by a band to that lining the trophoblast (Fig. 32). 10 1
FIG. 58– Human embryo about fifteen days old. (His.) (See enlarged image)
Second Week.—By the end of this week the ovum has increased considerably in size, and the majority of its villi are vascularized. The embryo has assumed a definite form, and its cephalic and caudal extremities are easily distinguished. The neural folds are partly united. The embryo is more completely separated from the yolk-sac, and the paraxial mesoderm is being divided into the primitive segments (Fig. 58). 2
FIG. 59– Human embryo between eighteen and twenty-one days old. (His. (See enlarged image)
Third Week.—By the end of the third week the embryo is strongly curved, and the primitive segments number about thirty. The primary divisions of the brain are visible, and the optic and auditory vesicles are formed. Four branchial grooves are present: the stomodeum is well-marked, and the bucco-pharyngeal membrane has disappeared. The rudiments of the limbs are seen as short buds, and the Wolffian bodies are visible (Fig. 59). 3
FIG. 60– Human embryo, twenty-seven to thirty days old. (His.) (See enlarged image)
Fourth Week.—The embryo is markedly curved on itself, and when viewed in profile is almost circular in outline. The cerebral hemispheres appear as hollow buds, and the elevations which form the rudiments of the auricula are visible. The limbs now appear as oval flattened projections (Fig. 60). 4
FIG. 61– Human embryo, thirty-one to thirty-four days old. (His.) (See enlarged image)
Fifth Week.—The embryo is less curved and the head is relatively of large size. Differentiation of the limbs into their segments occurs. The nose forms a short, flattened projection. The cloacal tubercle is evident (Fig. 61). 5
FIG. 62– Human embryo of about six weeks. (His.) (See enlarged image)
FIG. 63– Human embryo about eight and a half weeks old. (His.) (See enlarged image)
Sixth Week.—The curvature of the embryo is further diminished. The branchial grooves—except the first—have disappeared, and the rudiments of the fingers and toes can be recognized (Fig. 62). 6
Seventh and Eighth Weeks.—The flexure of the head is gradually reduced and the neck is somewhat lengthened. The upper lip is completed and the nose is more prominent. The nostrils are directed forward and the palate is not completely developed. The eyelids are present in the shape of folds above and below the eye, and the different parts of the auricula are distinguishable. By the end of the second month the fetus measures from 28 to 30 mm. in length (Fig. 63). 7
Third Month.—The head is extended and the neck is lengthened. The eyelids meet and fuse, remaining closed until the end of the sixth month. The limbs are well-developed and nails appear on the digits. The external generative organs are so far differentiated that it is possible to distinguish the sex. By the end of this month the length of the fetus is about 7 cm., but if the legs be included it is from 9 to 10 cm. 8
Fourth Month.—The loop of gut which projected into the umbilical cord is withdrawn within the fetus. The hairs begin to make their appearance. There is a general increase in size so that by the end of the fourth month the fetus is from 12 to 13 cm. in length, but if the legs be included it is from 16 to 20 cm. 9
Fifth Month.
—It is during this month that the first movements of the fetus are usually observed. The eruption of hair on the head commences, and the vernix caseosa begins to be deposited. By the end of this month the total length of the fetus, including the legs, is from 25 to 27 cm. 10
Sixth Month.—The body is covered by fine hairs (lanugo) and the deposit of vernix caseosa is considerable. The papillæ of the skin are developed and the free border of the nail projects from the corium of the dermis. Measured from vertex to heels, the total length of the fetus at the end of this month is from 30 to 32 cm. 11
Seventh Month.—The pupillary membrane atrophies and the eyelids are open. The testis descends with the vaginal sac of the peritoneum. From vertex to heels the total length at the end of the seventh month is from 35 to 36 cm. The weight is a little over three pounds. 12
Eighth Month.—The skin assumes a pink color and is now entirely coated with vernix caseosa, and the lanugo begins to disappear. Subcutaneous fat has been developed to a considerable extent, and the fetus presents a plump appearance. The total length, i. e., from head to heels, at the end of the eighth month is about 40 cm., and the weight varies between four and one-half and five and one-half pounds. 13
Ninth Month.—The lanugo has largely disappeared from the trunk. The umbilicus is almost in the middle of the body and the testes are in the scrotum. At full time the fetus weighs from six and one-half to eight pounds, and measures from head to heels about 50 cm. 14
Note 9. Die Einbettung des menschlichen Eies, 1899. [back]
Note 10. Bryce and Teacher (Early Development and Imbedding of the Human Ovum, 1908) have described an ovum which they regard as thirteen to fourteen days old. In it the two vesicles, the amnion and yolk-sac, were present, but there was no trace of a layer of embryonic ectoderm. They are of opinion that the age of Peters’ ovum has been understated, and estimate it as between thirteen and one-half and fourteen and one-half days.
I'll get started right away on the interpretation of your statement which implies that we have to sacrifice 1,013 bats every seventh tuesday to the Dung Faerie, lest we be smoted by the insane unicorn people.
Thats just plain cheery. :rolleyes:
Wait...:inquisitive: twptbubwinu?
Twptbubwinu obvious stands for "those who pretends to be us but who is not us"
:bow:
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 12:01
Twptbubwinu is the fiercest warrior of the Ontwtatlolopockopckackiostionstil'oloco tribe. He prepares for war by sacrificing a goat to the mighty god of pestilence, plagues, and famine, N'xolostopon'gtliciciloqext'cotlalalangtuubby wanawanawanawanaquolololo'pec the Destroyer of Worlds.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 13:59
I am going to say this once and it will finish this discusssion about your assassins.
Ahem, What sort of idiot assassins enter the council chambers without disguises!? What the heck were they thinking? Assassins are the enemy of all nobles and commomers alike and they just waltz in wearing black cloaks, wielding badly hidden exotic cutlery!? No assassins that stupid stand even a snowballs chance aginst trained and battle experienced bodyguards so my actions stand.
I am going to say this once and it will finish this discusssion about your assassins.
Ahem, What sort of idiot assassins enter the council chambers without disguises!? What the heck were they thinking? Assassins are the enemy of all nobles and commomers alike and they just waltz in wearing black cloaks, wielding badly hidden exotic cutlery!? No assassins that stupid stand even a snowballs chance aginst trained and battle experienced bodyguards so my actions stand.
Your missing the point where it was to be an obvious, intentional threat - it was a show, nothing more :rolleyes:
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 14:20
They did that and you claimed they were the best. I dont care what they did, people stupid enough to do it that way are as good as dead against my guards.
They did that and you claimed they were the best. I dont care what they did, people stupid enough to do it that way are as good as dead against my guards.
Your forgetting that the Council Chambers are a neutral domain - it's not your realm, you may not do as you see fit. If that were true, I'd have killed you eons ago, as would have anyone else, using our "numerically superior and better trained bodyguards".
Oh how I wish they'd shotgun every dictator that dared show his face in the UN :rolleyes:
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 14:48
Your telling the guy, who's armies slongan is "quality over quantity", that your bodyguards are better? Like you said its neutral ground and you had no right to send obviously armed assassins into the council chambers. Your lucky I was the only one to take this as a hostile act.
Your telling the guy, who's armies slongan is "quality over quantity", that your bodyguards are better? Like you said its neutral ground and you had no right to send obviously armed assassins into the council chambers. Your lucky I was the only one to take this as a hostile act.
Again, no one was harmed, no one would have been harmed. Your trying to defend an untenable position with paranoia. It was a direct, symbolic threat - threats are allowed, actually carrying out the threats and violence are not. If you can't see the line, I suggest you don't try either.
:rolleyes:
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 15:03
When I see an assassin entering a neutral council chamber, declaring bad intentions for me, I kill them before they can carry them out. If you wanted a symbolic gesture without anyone getting killed you should use a bodyguard or soldier instead.
When I see an assassin entering a neutral council chamber, declaring bad intentions for me, I kill them before they can carry them out. If you wanted a symbolic gesture without anyone getting killed you should use a bodyguard or soldier instead.
The Consulates best soldiers are agents, not throwaways. Why use a less powerful threat in place of your best one? That's like saying I want you to writhe in agony, but only with feather dusters. And you would have still overreacted with the featherduster.
:rolleyes:
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 15:12
I have experience with assassins myself and I know that the real assassin is never the hooded robed guy, he's just a decoy.
I throw peanuts at messangers and I chuck daggers and bodyguards at idiots dressed in hooded robes, trust me, be they assassins or creepy cultists either way the world would be a better place without them.
I have experience with assassins myself and I know that the real assassin is never the hooded robed guy, he's just a decoy.
I throw peanuts at messangers and I chuck daggers and bodyguards at idiots dressed in hooded robes, trust me, be they assassins or creepy cultists either way the world would be a better place without them.
Right, so your actions were totally justified, because infact they were not assassins at all, just decoys - which would have made sense, considering once your bodyguards moved to kill them, I could have one jump out the shadows and stab you in the kidneys. Makes sense - have to make sure to kill those decoys.
Wait, suddenly your logic isn't making sense! Oh nooooes! The world is falling apart!
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 15:22
I did say the the Real assassins aren't ever in the hoods I never said anything about your mooks. Anyway if they were just decoys you would have not complained so much so I have to ask Why did you get so stupid as to send your assassins into the council chambers?
I did say the the Real assassins aren't ever in the hoods I never said anything about you mooks. Anyway if they were just decoys you would have not complained so much so I have to ask Why did you get so stupid as to send your assassins into the council chambers?
Stop trying to setup up strawmen. I'm "throwing a fit" because you stepped out of bounds. Even if they were real, I'd of claimed they were decoys because that's the "Greyblades" way - works best when your trapped and can't find a way out unless you cry "but ahah! This whole thing was a ruse! That I didn't even know about!"
Again, real agents - they didn't just kill things - for a real, very dire threat. You know, so it actually carries meaning and weight.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 16:04
You brought assassins to a congregation of heads of states, I know what assassins do to heads of states, ergo I kill them before they can do it. Not too hard to understand. Seriously though why did you send assassins anyway? I thought you were a more big guards and enamored ambassadors sort of ruler.
OOC: Looking back I see where I went wrong. Want to help write up a small scenario of my bodyguards brawling with your assassins?
Subterfuge... espionage... this is against everything Beef teaches us! :furious3:
Anyone, and I mean anyone, including the Twptbubwinu, should take care to not send any spies or frame us for any crimes we did not commit... cos the retributions will be... unpleasant.
PS: Twptbubwinu, I know who you are, so one wrong move... :bow:
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 16:27
What? Your already crusading me and now you are saying if I do one thing wrong you will do something else to me?
OK then I was a bit rash on saying that the assassins get slaughtered. Lets try the assassins vs guards thing again:
The 5 bodyguards lunged forward, swords drawn, rushing as fast as 3 layers of plate will let them. The assassins run back out the door throwing darts, in an attempt to slow down the charging wall of steel. They imbed in the neck of the leading guardsman, he drops, clenching his throat in pain while the man behind stops to aid his fallen comrade. 2 down. The robed men charge through the double doors and down the corridors into the council members personal chambers.
"...Well... 20 Gold says that the guards win."
"Your on."
Want me to carry on?
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 19:01
How about we just drop it, gentlemen, and... settle this on the field of battle.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 19:11
Fine, take away my chance to write up something that interests me.:shifty:
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 19:15
Do what you like (while you still breathe) but from my perspective it looks like this entire conversation was either staged, or depressingly pointless.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 19:20
Yep, pointless. Boredom, from waiting for my technician to find a time to install a vidocard, has been pretty bad.
Hmmm... new idea. Instead of praying to Beefy so that he will curse you, I will pray for your destruction instead... SOOOOO much easier :smash:
*wonders if it will work*
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 21:13
Yeah, yeah, I'll cut down on the pointless posting.
huh, that was hard to say without thinking I sound like a jerk.
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 21:17
*sharpens his sword*
That won't be the only thing getting cut down tonight...
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 21:29
*Throws apple and knocks off the khan's helmet.*
"I'm not scared of you you Pizza eating dogs! Now go away or I will insult you a second time!"
Askthepizzaguy
05-12-2009, 21:32
It's Khan, not Khaan, and second he's not at this meeting. And thirdly;
*guards prepare to fire their bows at the Exile, and release, forming a pattern of arrows against the wall behind him, making a perfect outline of his wretched little body.*
Be thankful this is a place of peace. I warn you about sending projectiles in our direction. Any more violations of this sanctuary will result in your beheading.
Greyblades
05-12-2009, 21:39
I was unaware that an apple was a deadly projectile.
Also: How could you miss? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HM3iRgqRpkc&feature=related) Be thankful your men know this as a place of peace? Or that they are the worst shot this side of the khan's ego?
OOC: the khaan thing was a typo.
Beefy187
05-13-2009, 01:19
I better get this moving along.
Expect the night phase to finish sometimes in the next 24 hours.
Beefy187
05-13-2009, 09:01
Be ready for alot of Yoyomaness tonight.
Beefdom, army camp. Commanding base. 54 km away from the central area of the Hungry Hordes. Winter- 5BB
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/beefdomflaghalf-1.jpg
"Yoyo. Why aren't we leading the army and actually doing something?"
"We've been doing that... for the last 37 hours Lace."
"Why aren't we doing that now?"
"Because its night. We can't see things at night.. So its better to sit tight until the sun rises up high."
"You have a point... But..." said Lacy. She was fully convinced by Yoyomas reasoning. Yet she couldn't hold her still. She walked around the room, fully dressed in armour, while Yoyoma, laid on the bed in his silk sleeping cloths.
"Relax Lacy" said Yoyoma. "You walking around won't make the sun come out any faster"
"It could!!" replied Lacy. "Well at least, it makes me feel like the morning is going to come sooner."
Yoyoma rolled his eyes. While he didn't mind a fully armed women walking around in the same room with him, he did start thinking ideas to get her in a comfirtable dress, relaxed and sleeping just to kill some time. And he did come up with a idea.
"Lacy? Do you know why my family is called the Yoyomas?" He asked.
"Not really sure Yoyo.. why?"
"Really? I'm sure your father knew about it."
"Well... My father was already dead by the time I was born." she said, staring at a empty space.
Bugger. Yoyoma thought to him self. Topic about Lacys father was a big taboo in this house hold.
"Sorry... Anyway!! My family was given the name Yoyoma, thanks to our superior Yoyo skill. Which I believe you never seen before. King Beefy... My fathers father. Oh and now deceased men called Sarathos who was my fathers brother was a big fan of my fathers Yoyo skills. 500 years ago my ancestor was awarded with the title of Yoyoma which stands for Yoyo master. Thats why we are called the Yoyomas."
"Facinating.. Could I witness the art of Yoyo?" Lacy chuckled.
"Sure."
So Yoyoma pulled out his Yoyo and started with the most basic skill.. Walk the dog (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvYctK2ev3w).
By the time Yoyoma got to Ladder Escape (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MkCeEevac4&feature=related) Lacy was soo impressed by the trick, that her eyes was shining in curiosity and asked for Yoyo tutoring.
"Tell you what? Why don't you go take those armours off? You have to be light has possible in order to do the hard tricks."
When Lacy went and took her armors off, Yoyoma silently celebrated as his plan was a success.
:laugh4:
:brood:
:laugh4:
:no:
:laugh4:
:2thumbsup:
Askthepizzaguy
05-13-2009, 09:14
Hmmmph. I had a feeling the coward would strike while I was on crusade. Fortunately I took precautions.
Beefy187
05-14-2009, 03:06
Yoyomas stronghold. Hungry Hordes territory- Winter- 5BB
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/beefdomflaghalf-1.jpg
Early morning, Yoyoma was already moving around, discussing strategies with his generals.
"Hows our conquest going?"
"Firstly Sir, what you should know that the territory of the Hungry Hordes are mostly plain. Their cities are camps. They are made to migrate around at will."
"Whats your point general?"
"My point is that, there is no...cities to conquer. We just push back their forces. But thing is, most of them are on horses, allowing them to manuever around our forces."
"Put some guards on Beefys boarders. I'm guessing that paths will be used."
"Already done sir."
"And send a elite squad up north.. I have a plan."
.................................................................................................... ......................................
The exiles camp. Hungry Hordes territory- Winter- 5BB
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/owl1half.jpg
"INCOMING!!"
The soldiers who were sleeping started strapping on their armours quickly as possible.
As flaming arrows came raining on the exiles camp.
It was followed by hordes of Bull Knights.. Knights riding on a Bull.
http://bonzaialsatian.deviantart.com/art/king-lycergus-66504057 (by =bonzaialsatian Deviant art. Used without permission :sweatdrop:)
The power of the bulls were able to
tore down the towers, penetrate the tent, causing blood bathes inside. Then there was those Amazonians and Cafe Lateans on the back of those bulls, causing massacre and Chaos to the unprepared Exile warriors.
Only few managed to get ready for the battle. However the captain of the Beefdom ordered to stop attacking.
"Men of the exiles. We are not here to kill everyone of you. So if you wish, you may go back to your king."
Doubting, the warriors of the exiles didn't lower their weapons.
"Look at you. You are out numbered. You have no chance of victory. Isn't it much better to just... run away?"
After a breif moment of silence, the exiles captain shouted in their languege.
"Retreat in orderly fasion! Go!"
The assault was successful.
.................................................................................................... ...........
Isles of Aresea- Spring 5BB
The storm which approached from the north of the isles, fortunately went passed, heading west.
According to the scientists, the storm is pass without hitting any of the land in the area.
While they celebrated the fact that their ocean mine fields were safe, they were not too luck by the fact that there was a fleet sailing towards their direction.
"Who are they? The Shadow Bulls?"
"No... They are one of us."
"Why then? Why are they heading dead straight? They are going to hit our mine fields!!"
*KABOOM!!!
the ship on the front explodes. From the ship, scraps of metal bits rained in the water, exploding a few more.
From the rest of the fleet, they started firing any stuff they could find. Folks, spoons.. Anything which can be fired and can damage a glass orb.
After 2 hours of firing, the mine fields were no more. The transport ships taken from the exiles camp in the Hungry Hordes area, retreated to safety before the Exiles navy was ready to fight.
.................................................................................................... .................
Land of the exiles... Aresean territory- Spring 6BB
https://i404.photobucket.com/albums/pp130/aries777777/Areseasmall-1.jpg
After months of siege, Areseans were running low on food supply. At this stage, most people on the island knew that the Areseans were one of the veggie eaters. However, even vegetables were running out in the fortress.
Exiles on the other hand. Knew everything about the fortress. From their strength, to their weaknesses as they were the ones who built the fortress in the first place.
Now it was the time to strike.
The plan was simple. Yet effective.
They would strap on their explosive chemical of doom, which they use even for cooking, on to their lovely steam driven horse. And charge at the fortress walls.
Ofcause, depending on where the chemical is strapped on, it can easily be countered with arrows breaking the orb.
However, by this stage, Areseans in the fortress had almost no will to fight. Expect the King him self whos survival was the first priority. Though, King wasn't that skilled in terms of archery.
Knowing that it was the only chance of his survival, King immediately started shooting when he noticed the Horsey, charging at the Fortress. He couldn't hit a single arrow..
*KABOOMA!!!
King fell off the wall as the impact was soo large. He found him self surrounded by the exiles warrior. It was a miracle in the first place that he survived the fall.. But what do you expect from a half human, half fish?
Anyway, the king whispered "Bloody Greyblades".... And that was the last word by the good king.
King of the Areseans are dead. Kingdom of Aresea is now controlled by the exiles
.................................................................................................... ......................
Land of the Hungry Hordes. Spring- 6BB
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/beefdomflaghalf-1.jpg
At spring, the bored warriors of Beefdom has finally met their foes. Army of the Swiss Mongols were around as usual. Accompanied by few horsies from the Hungry Khan, army given by QJC... And surprising presence of Buranda.
On Beefdoms side.... There was ever eagar Amazonians, loyal Beefdom soldiers... Blood thirst brave men of Caffe Late.... and... Strange.. The consulates are gone missing... Along with Lacy.
Yoyoma sighed and ordered his man to make a strong hold on the high hills as he was somewhat... Ok.. Very out numbered. But the satisfied alliance of Pizza, who had their pizza before the battle as always, didn't allow Beefdom troops to "prepare" for battle.
They immediately charged foward, started shooting balistas, trebuchets and catapalts soon as they were in range. As the foot soldiers started marching towards the Beefdom formation slowly.. but steadily.
Beefdom soldiers had no choice but to charge foward so that all the annoying artilaries would stop.
Army of Beefdom crashed head to head with the Swiss Mongols and Burandians and Decapodians and some Khanates.
Amazonians were on a killing spree, as they were away from the battle for too long. Even the Swiss pikemans were no match for those "THIS IS SPARTA" style lunatics.
However the tide of battle changed when squad of archers came up on the hill, starting to shoot.... sigh... Explosive arrows. Which is said that they are likely to explode at will, without the help of the exiles titanium building thingo. However, luckily the Khanate decided that rather then thinking about it, they would just keep shooting... For the Khanate!! Rawr!
This wrecked havoc the Beefdom soldiers who were pushing back the alliance army despite the disadvantage in numbers.
Yoyoma, seeing as his army was being pushed back for the first time in the battle, decided that he should regroup. He ordered the cavalry to charge at the archers on the hill top and rally his troops there. What he didn't expect was the consulate soldiers, arriving in the battle field. Led by Lacy her self.
He thought of keep charging at the archers along with the consulate troops for dissapearing without his permission, but decided that they are allys after all. And any army on their side will be helpful.
So he ordered his cavalry to charge at the alliance infantry once more, who seem to be slightly nervous about the arrival of new foes.
He noticed the arrow stopped firing. Lacy leading the charge of her soldier.
She must be amatuar.. Yoyoma thought to him self. As Lacy charged straight at beefdom soldier rather then going around to flank the enemy. No matter. Least it gives them momentum...
Within 6 minutes, Yoyoma was captured. His amazonians, Cafe lateans and Beefdom soldiers was massacred.. Surrounded by enemies... ENEMIES.
Princess Lacy of Beefdom.... No... Consulate Lacy finished off the last of the Beefdom troops. And headed for Yoyoma. Before Yoyoma could even think of saying a joke.. Like.. "You look beutiful in enemies cloths as well" Lacy reached for her sword and.... stopped her sword just before Yoyomas neck. And asked.
"Wheres the Yoyo?"
Yoyoma squeezed out his voice and said. "Left pocket"
Lacy nodded in sign of appreciation and chopped Yoyomas head off.
Then she reached for the yoyo.
"Bugger... I should've asked how to do Eiffle Tower before killing him... Ah well.."
The battle was over. Yoyoma is dead.
.................................................................................................... .......................
Holy theocracy of the Shadowbulls- Spring 6BB
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/bullflagsmall.jpg
"Umm sir... Weren't we going to slay those evil Exiles?? And veggie eaters?"
"No trooper!! The basic of warfare is defence!! NOW SAY IT!! DEFENCE!!"
"Defence... sir.... But I mean.. We've been cursing those exiles for three years now sir.. And we've been..."
"Cowaring behind walls!? Was that what you were going to say?? No Trooper!! Safety precautions! Its called gathering inteligence before striking out... No wait... Its called being smart!! Why attack when we have such a nice pwetty walls?? HUH???"
"My a a... apologies sir!! I did not mean that!!"
"Ofcause you didn't!! Now is there anything more you want to say before I order you to eat your biscuits and drink your tea?"
"Yes sir! Yoyoma has fallen in battle."
"I know that. Whats next?"
"Consulate Lacy announced the..."
"Enough about her. My father told me to stay away from pwetty women. Next"
"Beefy summons you to the next meeting."
"Ah! Thats more like it. Prepare my horse! And you!! Have your Bikkies!!"
.................................................................................................... .........................
Consulates of Yaks Liquors and Cheese. Spring 6BB
https://i387.photobucket.com/albums/oo312/mexico1910/noblesons/consulflagsmall-1.jpg
*HAIL LACY!!!
"Firstly.. Good people of the Consulate. I must apologize for my action. I didn't want to hide my intention to you, but I thought it was necessary. But the tyrant Yoyoma is no more!! You are once again free!!!"
*HAIL LACY!!!
"Secondly. People of Beefdom. When I was appointed as Queen of Beefdom, I never lied when I said 'I will serve Beefdom'. It was that tyrant Yoyoma I swored to destroy. No one else! I hope you will continue to have me as your ruler. Now we had enough blood shed. As my goal to destroy Yoyoma is now completed, I will now persuit my original dream. To turn this kindom to loving and caring community. To end all wars. To persuit the peace. I here by declare the foundation of Holy Bovine Empire!! More announcement will be made shortly by Real me appropriate person at the appropriate time. However, I have to go to the meeting in haste. Again, I apologise for abandoning you eventhough it was never my intention. And I thank you for staying loyal in the most difficult time."
Thermal Mercury and Yoyoma is now dead. My deepest regrets as both of you were an fine player.
Please understand that I am working hard to end this game quickly as possible without making people go "this is rigged" I thank you for your understanding. :bow:
Good luck in the next game.. If there is ever to be one :2thumbsup:
Yoyoma1910
05-14-2009, 04:47
:bow:
Thank you gentlemen for the lovely game. I did my part towards your little crusade, and now the silly mine field is gone.
Good luck to all, maybe again one day our paths shall cross.
Oh yes, and I have one more map to finish.
Askthepizzaguy
05-14-2009, 05:15
If at all possible, is there a way that we could summarize the writeups, as I did in my Treehouse of Horror game? The actions are usually so confusing or complex that I just want to reaffirm what I think I know in basic, plain language. Such as... Hungry Khan's northern territory was captured, etc.
I have a lot to read and do on these forums and every little bit helps. :bow: MANY thanks! I love to be able to read the writeups casually, when I have time, but I also like knowing precisely what happened. In like a battle report.
Askthepizzaguy
05-14-2009, 06:16
https://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb225/askthepizzaguy/HungryKhanateFlagSmall.jpg
Hail Lacy! Hail Lacy! Hail Lacy!
Noble Sons of the Realm-
It is with great honor and privilege that I address you once again today. The tyrannical scourge of these lands is gone. He will threaten and bully you no longer, like the Reenk and the Roink before him. We thank our loyal allies for their support on the battlefield... notably the Peanut King who led the swiss forces into battle once again, and the Decapodian soldiers, who once again showed true might and honor. And the Great Republic of Buranda, who sent soldiers to fight the infidel... the true infidel of this land. Finally, I must show my greatest respect to the most cunning leader of them all, who has orchestrated the downfall of these tyrants since the very beginning, Consul Lacy the Magnificent! I understand Prince Koriander the Lesser is very eager to show her his greatest respects as well.
I have distressing news. Our Great Khan, Generalissimo Greenpepperous the Great, has taken ill and died on a pilgrimage to the Beefy lands. He is our leader no more. As is our ancient tradition, Prince Basillo the Elder, will take his place as the newly crowned Khan of the Hungry Hordes of Pizza Beefdom. He sends his warmest regards and will be riding to this council soon under a banner of peace, with a bounty of pizza for all to feast upon, fresh from our oven forges, in leather pizza sacks to retain the freshness.
We are no longer at war with anyone in these lands... we have much rebuilding to do. Numerous invasions have turned our already modest lands into a wasteland... pillaged and burnt and covered in salt by one bully, and invaded and turned into a military base by two others. Our sovereignty must be respected from now on, please, for there is nothing left to pillage and no way to grow anything in half of our homelands. We are seriously considering relocation to some of our newly acquired territories, but the lands here can still be used for cattle grazing I suppose.
In our weakened state, we are willing to accept mercenary conscripts from anyone who can offer them. We have much in the way of natural resources to trade for them. Given the numerous invasions of our lands, we obviously fear for our defense and tire of being trodden upon by those we have offered friendship to, only to have the offer spat upon. Finally, I raise a goblet of wine to everyone here. To prosperity! In remembrance of Generalissimo Greenpepperous! May he rest in peace.
-Pepperono, ambassador of the Hungry Khan
Beefy187
05-14-2009, 06:20
If at all possible, is there a way that we could summarize the writeups, as I did in my Treehouse of Horror game? The actions are usually so confusing or complex that I just want to reaffirm what I think I know in basic, plain language. Such as... Hungry Khan's northern territory was captured, etc.
I have a lot to read and do on these forums and every little bit helps. :bow: MANY thanks! I love to be able to read the writeups casually, when I have time, but I also like knowing precisely what happened. In like a battle report.
Will do next time :bow:
The Currently occupied areas by Beefdom and Exiles in the Hungry Hordes territory are now under rule of Holy Bovine empire. Kingdom of Aresea are now off the map, and Exiles got their old land back
Also, its day time. King Beefy is feeling lonely again for losing Ares and Yoyoma.
Askthepizzaguy
05-14-2009, 06:23
We wish to petition the Consulate for ownership of our original territories in Hungry Khan territory, so that our original borders may be restored.
-Pepperono
The newly crowned Empress of the Holy Bovine Empire, Lacy, enters and seats herself, surrounded on each side by formidable knights, each heavily armored in Gothic armor with a Greek flair and standing slightly over 7 feet tall.
http://www.zeldawiki.org/images/thumb/4/40/Darknut.png/250px-Darknut.png
"Greetings, from the Empire. Due to the sudden circumstances in which land has changed hands, the Empire will require new maps to be drawn out to begin making decisions on territorial partitions. I am sorry if this inconveniences some of you, but in the interests of fairness, it must be done."
White_eyes:D
05-14-2009, 10:08
If players here, like Yoyoma or Blackadder, prefer to wait on the sidelines and then strike when the iron is hot, good for them! That's the safe way to play! It's the smart way to play! It's the winning way to play! I think to myself.....most famous rulers...fought hundreds of battles, both on the defense and offense.....I think one of the quotes from EB that sums it all up. "Great Empires are not maintained by timidity":book:
I also knew before hand that YLC was going to betray Yoyoma.....which was why I pressed so hard for his "He is going to win!!! quick, gang up on him"......my final revenge from the last game:bow: (but I figured he was going to win.....guess I lost that bet.....:laugh4:) I guess he can't see everything....:clown:
Edit:YLC....your far more devious then I am....:laugh4: (I really didn't think you would do it.....:sweatdrop:)
Beefy187
05-14-2009, 10:33
Are you back White_eyes?
Askthepizzaguy
05-14-2009, 11:05
No offense to YLC, WhiteEyes, but 4 out of the 5 armies assembled against Yoyoma did so by my prodding and suggestion.
No one calls me a little man.
Greyblades
05-14-2009, 12:11
Would the new Empress of the Bovine be so kind as to give me back the lands Yoyoma took?
Oh who am I kidding give it back to the khanate.
The newly crowned Empress of the Holy Bovine Empire, Lacy, enters and seats herself, surrounded on each side by formidable knights, each heavily armored in Gothic armor with a Greek flair and standing slightly over 7 feet tall.
http://www.zeldawiki.org/images/thumb/4/40/Darknut.png/250px-Darknut.png
"Greetings, from the Empire. Due to the sudden circumstances in which land has changed hands, the Empire will require new maps to be drawn out to begin making decisions on territorial partitions. I am sorry if this inconveniences some of you, but in the interests of fairness, it must be done."
I will draw out a map once I get my computer back wich should be either later today or tommorow. Unless yoyoma wants to do it.
:no:...
Still, at least one of the heretics is gone... just one more to go.
*Roys looks at all the troops he had been recruiting*
FOR TEH BEEF!
Askthepizzaguy
05-15-2009, 18:43
From the ashes of Org server failure, the Hungry Khan is BACK! Using https://server2.kproxy.com and then typing in https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/forumdisplay.php?f=156 as TinCow suggested, I can access the site.
Just letting all of you other players know.
You have to add an exception for the security thingy though if it says so.
The Forum works again!
See, foolish veggies, only the true Beefeaters can access this council :beam: The heretics are barred! MUHAHAHAHA!
Askthepizzaguy
05-15-2009, 20:34
General Basillo, Khan of the Hungry Horde, unceremoniously rides to the meeting, alone, then dismounts and bows with respect.
Fellow Noble Sons-
We are about to inaugurate an era of peace in these lands. The oppressors have been punished and swept away. We should agree to stand together against any further aggressive parties who would attack the glorious nations of Beef. If you will allow me, I will stand by you in dark times. My nation has been ravaged by war, our people nearly starved by pillaging and devastation. I come here now to ask for your help, if you can help... we are in need of assistance. Our economy needs to recover fully, and anything you can spare to make that happen would be appreciated. Our flocks of sheep and cattle need to be replenished, our tomatoes need to be regrown, and we need new sources of grain and hay.
We are in your debt for assisting us against the oppressors, but it seems we have taken the brunt of the losses. I can promise you further aid and cooperation, but I ask the same of you in return. Otherwise it seems we are doomed to forever be the Hungry Horde. Peace and prosperity, gentlemen! Let us discuss our future together now.
:bow:
Basillo
Greyblades
05-15-2009, 22:46
The heretics are barred! MUHAHAHAHA!
And yet here I am! :beam:
Askthepizzaguy
05-15-2009, 22:57
And yet here I am! :beam:
:laugh4:
In all seriousness-
What are your intentions, Exiles? You destroyed our friends the Areseans this season. Do we continue the war and send countless others to their deaths?
Greyblades
05-15-2009, 23:08
What are your intentions?
"Well first I'm going to get laid, and then I'm going to get laid again, then I'll have a nap and then get laid some more. That's what I'm all about, getting :daisy:ed."
*Serious mode*
If you remember Aresa was a veggie nation to the end. And seriously the taking of your 2 squares was to make sure that your armies would be occupied in your own lands and not joining the main crusade army. I had no intention of keeping them.
Right now I intend to get back the lands blackadder took during the first crusade back through either means. After that, who knows?
If the mods have a problem with the word laid I'll remove it but It was all for comedy. :beam:
ZOMGUS! ATPG says the vile heretics of Aresea are his friends!?!?!?!
Tread carefully, Pizza Lord :inquisitive:
Beefy187
05-16-2009, 00:58
The Forum works again!
See, foolish veggies, only the true Beefeaters can access this council :beam: The heretics are barred! MUHAHAHAHA!
Am I a heretic? :embarassed:
I finally got here about a hour ago...
I missed you guys
Askthepizzaguy
05-16-2009, 01:00
@Shlin
1. They are no more.
2. They were made into our vassals. What's the problem?
3. They agreed not to spread the veggie religion. And they were at war with other veggie lovers. What's the problem?
4. We are friends. Are you threatening us again? Why?
White_eyes:D
05-16-2009, 01:30
Are you back White_eyes?
Sadly only for 10 mins a day.....:brood: (That's about all I get...)
BTW: What happened yesterday?? (I thought I was temp banned or something...):sweatdrop:
Beefy187
05-16-2009, 04:10
Sadly only for 10 mins a day.....:brood: (That's about all I get...)
BTW: What happened yesterday?? (I thought I was temp banned or something...):sweatdrop:
I thought my account got hacked and I did some naughty stuff so I got banned.
Thankfully, that wasn't the case :laugh4:
@Shlin
1. They are no more.
2. They were made into our vassals. What's the problem?
3. They agreed not to spread the veggie religion. And they were at war with other veggie lovers. What's the problem?
4. We are friends. Are you threatening us again? Why?
ALL VEGGIES MUST DIE!!!
1. Indeed.
2. Vassal schmo-ssal. They must be EXTERMINATED.
3. But... they... were... alive... a true Beefeater would exterminate them.
4. My aim is to wipe out all Veggies, anything in the way of my holy mission... :beam:
Askthepizzaguy
05-16-2009, 19:39
"Any true beefeater would exterminate them."
Does that make the Exiles true beefeaters? Because they were wiped out by a fellow veggie nation.
You heard it here first, folks! The Theocracy of Shadowbull has determined the Exiles to be true lovers of Beef! It's on record, therefore it is now law! Praise the theocrat!
Hey, people who are insane can't get fancy education in the English Language okay? Stop twisting Roy's words! :no:
For the record, WE ARE GOING TO EXTERMINATE THE EXILES IN THE NEXT SIX MONTHS!
:yes:
Askthepizzaguy
05-16-2009, 20:11
Well without significant resources to build our forces back up, it will take us a little longer. I hope you have some soldiers to spare to fill out the ranks.
By the way, Beefy, I need to know the status of my forces and territories. I'll do you a favor and I'll project via calculations (showing my math) what my economic situation should be, but I need to know what percent each type of troop is at, if you could please send me a private message.
(I have no idea how pitiful my forces are after all these years of war)
Greyblades
05-16-2009, 20:12
Hey, people who are insane can't get fancy education in the English Language okay? Stop twisting Roy's words! :no:
For the record, WE ARE GOING TO EXTERMINATE THE EXILES IN THE NEXT SIX MONTHS!
:yes:
Thanks for the warning. :beam:
Thanks for the warning. :beam:
Pah, we care not for giving the enemy vital state secrets, for the Beef protects His faithful and smites His enemies, no mattered how prepared they are. :bow:
Pah, we care not for giving the enemy vital state secrets, for the Beef protects His faithful and smites His enemies, no mattered how prepared they are. :bow:
Speaking of which, Bishop Roy, matters of state between the Empire and the Theocracy need to be taken care of. I understand your previous diplomatic disparity with the Kingdom of Beefdom caused you to separate, but, in the Interests of the faithful and of unity in these hard times, we ask that the you lay your sovereignty aside as an independent state and full integrate with the Empire. In doing so, the Empire wold be able to fund most of the temples throughout the land and be able to more effectively spread the faith, as well as supply soldiers, money, and supplies for Crusades.
Greyblades
05-16-2009, 21:11
YLC what happened to the exiled clay?
Speaking of which, Bishop Roy, matters of state between the Empire and the Theocracy need to be taken care of. I understand your previous diplomatic disparity with the Kingdom of Beefdom caused you to separate, but, in the Interests of the faithful and of unity in these hard times, we ask that the you lay your sovereignty aside as an independent state and full integrate with the Empire. In doing so, the Empire wold be able to fund most of the temples throughout the land and be able to more effectively spread the faith, as well as supply soldiers, money, and supplies for Crusades.
The Theocracy obeys no-one. We are above such mortal concerns of petty alliances and political schemes.
:bow:
Askthepizzaguy
05-16-2009, 21:29
A man rides to the meeting, and dismounts with his entourage of soldiers and guards. He is decorated with the colors of the faithful Beef-eating Pizza Khan, though he is not the Khan. He appears to be Prince Koriander the Lesser.
Greetings, Noble Sons.
I wish to decree that the borders of the nation of the Hungry Khan will now be closed to all missionaries, diplomats, spies, merchants, and other mischief makers will be expelled. All non-Horde nationalists will be expelled to their home territories. Our trade will cease with all nations except approved shipments from the Holy Bovine Empire.
Gentlemen, we have detected treachery within our borders. Our lax policies which have allowed this breach of security are now discontinued. One of our friends has betrayed us. As such our armies and our intelligence network is on full alert, and we are now conscripting new forces from civilian camps in Reenk and Roink territory and all other liberated territories. We are are cancelling all treaties of alliance and will no longer accept foreign armies in our lands.
Be very careful. If we knew who it was who has betrayed us, we would immediately declare war. You would do well to look to your neighbors, because one of them does not fight like a warrior. He fights without honor. He fights like a coward. I will find out who you are, and by the will of Beef, I will dismantle you. To all the other Sons here; my apologies, but it must be done. We would do better to rid ourselves of traitors in our midst anyway.
Pepperono, you have served the Khan well. You are relieved. I'll be discussing matters of state from now on.
Pepperono and his entourage bow with respect and leave.
The Theocracy obeys no-one. We are above such mortal concerns of petty alliances and political schemes.
:bow:
This is not about Politics, it is about faith and the propagation of it. Your willing to deny hundreds, if not thousands of of the people adequate access to places of worship and the funding of priests, bishops, and missionaries?
Roy, I expect better of you! We need what faith and good charity can provide right now, and you willingly deny it on the selfish basis that your existence as a political entity is of greater value then the souls of the common and noble man alike.
This is not about Politics, it is about faith and the propagation of it. Your willing to deny hundreds, if not thousands of of the people adequate access to places of worship and the funding of priests, bishops, and missionaries?
Roy, I expect better of you! We need what faith and good charity can provide right now, and you willingly deny it on the selfish basis that your existence as a political entity is of greater value then the souls of the common and noble man alike.
I know what you did and what you will do, oh cunning Empress.
Whilst you talk of peace, you plan for war.
Whilst you talk of mediation, you create confrontation via espionage.
Whilst you talk of faith, you betray loyal eaters of Beef.
We will be no part of this "Empire" that is not holy and certainly not blessed by the Divine Bovine - our lives are our own to live, not to be controlled by a power crazed maniac :shame:
Greyblades
05-16-2009, 21:45
not to be controlled by a power crazed maniac
:laugh4:
Oh the irony.
not to be controlled by a power crazed maniac
:laugh4:
Oh the irony.
OOC: I'll have you know the Grand Theocrat has yet to appear in the meeting - all of the madness are all quotes from Roy. The Grand Theocrat is a far more... interesting sort of person, and certainly not power crazy.
Well... maybe. :beam:
Askthepizzaguy
05-16-2009, 21:50
*sniff sniff*
Power crazed maniac?? Where? Where? Get me my sword.
*sniff sniff*
Power crazed maniac?? Where? Where? Get me my sword.
May I direct you to the lovely lady there? I believe she's who you are looking for :beam:
I know what you did and what you will do, oh cunning Empress.
Whilst you talk of peace, you plan for war.
Whilst you talk of mediation, you create confrontation via espionage.
Whilst you talk of faith, you betray loyal eaters of Beef.
We will be no part of this "Empire" that is not holy and certainly not blessed by the Divine Bovine - our lives are our own to live, not to be controlled by a power crazed maniac :shame:
Do not profess to know of my sins when you so heartily abandoned me and my people to King Yoyoma. We have been and always will be loyal to Beef, but when another beef eating nation came and attacked us, while we were attacking heretics, yet you did not protest one inch. But that is the past and I forgive you.
I am talking of working together, nothing more. We ask that in order to better fulfill your duties as the head of our faith, yet you seem entrenched in the need to stay within the realm of material and nonspiritual matters. We are offering you the grand opportunity to spread the faith farther, clearer and with greater effectiveness then ever before, liberating you from the need to worry about material matters to you can concentrate on the divine, while the Empire will struggle in the management of worldly concerns.
Yet you would deny this and keep our beloved faith grounded in less then pure matters, you would dilute it simply on the insistence of political division, which as you protest, you are beyond.
Why are you holy men so worried about secular matters if only the spiritual matters?
Do not profess to know of my sins when you so heartily abandoned me and my people to King Yoyoma. We have been and always will be loyal to Beef, but when another beef eating nation came and attacked us, while we were attacking heretics, yet you did not protest one inch. But that is the past and I forgive you.
I am talking of working together, nothing more. We ask that in order to better fulfill your duties as the head of our faith, yet you seem entrenched in the need to stay within the realm of material and nonspiritual matters. We are offering you the grand opportunity to spread the faith farther, clearer and with greater effectiveness then ever before, liberating you from the need to worry about material matters to you can concentrate on the divine, while the Empire will struggle in the management of worldly concerns.
Yet you would deny this and keep our beloved faith grounded in less then pure matters, you would dilute it simply on the insistence of political division, which as you protest, you are beyond.
Why are you holy men so worried about secular matters if only the spiritual matters?
Like I said before, we do not involve ourselves with mortal wars, but instead focusing on the far more important issue of finding and destroying heretics. "Heartily abandonned"? I think not.
Also, why in Beef's name would we need to be incoporated into your "empire" to spread the good word? Are our brave missionaries not enough? The Holy Church is a flexible Church, we do not require weekly prayer sessions or harsh tithes - only a good hearty meal of Beef on steak and a Beefy lifestyle is required to get into the Land of the Beef, for the Divine Bovine is both loving and lenient, unlike other Gods of foreign lands. What would annexing our beloved Theocracy bring for the average Beefeater? NOTHING.
Lastly and most importantly, why should we heed your words, when we already have evidence of your past... espionage activities, and maybe even your future military designs on our fair Theocracy?
Trust is the foundation of any agreement, and to be frank, you have yet to give any reason for us to trust you, especially after that unfortunate incident involving King Yoyoma.
:bow:
Askthepizzaguy
05-16-2009, 22:12
I am concerned. First we get an ominous message from the Theocracy telling us to tread carefully... is this a threat? Now I see the Holy Bovine Empire threatening the true beefeaters of the Theocracy... what is all this aggression? The Exiles appear to be threatening Buranda.
Only the Hungry Khan, the Republic of Buranda, and the Swiss Mongol Horde seem to be content with peace. And of course, our gloriously neutral host, Beefy of Beefydom. I am not pleased with this turn of events. And we have saboteurs in our lands destroying our crops and cattle, threatening our already frail food supplies.
Whoever has done this, your days are numbered. And we will find out who you are, and we will not tolerate such unfriendly conduct. It will be war.
-Prince Koriander the Lesser
Greyblades
05-16-2009, 22:21
appear to be threatening Buranda.
We dont like how he still has about 4 square miles of our land (Or is it 40 square miles, what size is the island anyway?)
Askthepizzaguy
05-16-2009, 22:49
I will admit that his lack of communication and diplomacy on the issue may give you reason to act. However, your demands of beef-controlled territory have not gone unnoticed. We are keeping an eye on you.
By my count, the only ones capable of this sabotage are very few... and they include you.
Like I said before, we do not involve ourselves with mortal wars, but instead focusing on the far more important issue of finding and destroying heretics. "Heartily abandonned"? I think not.
Also, why in Beef's name would we need to be incoporated into your "empire" to spread the good word? Are our brave missionaries not enough? The Holy Church is a flexible Church, we do not require weekly prayer sessions or harsh tithes - only a good hearty meal of Beef on steak and a Beefy lifestyle is required to get into the Land of the Beef, for the Divine Bovine is both loving and lenient, unlike other Gods of foreign lands. What would annexing our beloved Theocracy bring for the average Beefeater? NOTHING.
Lastly and most importantly, why should we heed your words, when we already have evidence of your past... espionage activities, and maybe even your future military designs on our fair Theocracy?
Trust is the foundation of any agreement, and to be frank, you have yet to give any reason for us to trust you, especially after that unfortunate incident involving King Yoyoma.
:bow:
You did not protest the actions of King Yoyoma at all, which I find hypocritical when you state that Beefeaters should get along. We valued our faith as you did and we went after the veggie eaters only, yet when it was clear that a beef eating nation moved to subvert this holy goal, you did nothing.
Because - it would expand your current spiritual holdings. You would have complete and total control over all spiritual work and programs in the entirety of the Empire, which you currently do not have. This would also mean you could release day to day administration to the common man so you may better focus on your ecclesiastical duties, and without the need to support an army, which the Empire would do for you, you would be able to divert your funds to taking care of the poor and needy, to your theological schools, and to the funding of your temples.
They are indeed the past, if you have any evidence at all, bring it forth - it is time, in this era, that we the Empire set an example in peace, forgiveness, and the acknowledgment of ones responsibilities. If the Empire owes damages, we will pay them. If we have deprived others of comfort, we shall keep them warm. If their bellies are empty, we shall fill them. If they are defenseless we shall protect them.
The first I shall address is my well known betrayal of King Yoyoma, and the subsequent pardon and exile of my brother Clay for his hand in several unscrupulous acts while he was a rebel. I did not take my betrayal of my late husband lightly, for what example would I set for future generations through regicide? But it was something that had to be done before Yoyoma surely snared each and everyone through cunning deals and immoral, sweet lies. It had to be done, even for you Roy - for he would have gone so far to as strip you of all power and erase any spiritual hold the church had over the people of Beefdom.
I offer the exact opposite, and wish to strengthen the church - will you not help me in doing so? I will not force you to do so strictly and uncompromisingly on my terms Bishop Roy - I am not Yoyoma, I am not a cruel and heartless conartist - I am a mother, to my children, and to my people.
Greyblades
05-16-2009, 23:20
I will admit that his lack of communication and diplomacy on the issue may give you reason to act. However, your demands of beef-controlled territory have not gone unnoticed. We are keeping an eye on you.
By my count, the only ones capable of this sabotage are very few... and they include you.
You would think me a fool? I am the leader of a country of exiles! My name is hated from the halls of the empire to the ditches of the Swisslanders! I have a crusade on my lands and a bounty on my head, and you would think I want more enemies?! Wake up and smell the ashes man, your being manipulated.
Askthepizzaguy
05-16-2009, 23:29
Well? We are being manipulated by whom? If you know who did this, speak up.
Greyblades
05-16-2009, 23:52
I said its obvious that your beig misled I never said I knew who. All I can gather is that they want you occupied for the next Season.
Askthepizzaguy
05-16-2009, 23:55
But we are already occupied with reconstruction and troop replenishing efforts. This move makes little sense to me, unless someone is paranoid that we were going to invade them for no reason. I am checking who has the most to gain from our being incapacitated.
Greyblades
05-17-2009, 00:03
Hang on I'm getting a feeling of deja vu here. Havent we been in this situation of one of us being attacked without warning before?
Askthepizzaguy
05-17-2009, 00:05
By my count this is the fourth time. You, Reenk, Yoyoma, and myself.
Greyblades
05-17-2009, 00:10
And each one, including me, were ganged up on a turn or 2 later.
Beefy187
05-17-2009, 01:25
By my count this is the fourth time. You, Reenk, Yoyoma, and myself.
I think Shlin did as well.
Askthepizzaguy
05-17-2009, 01:28
I thought that Shlin was the one victimized by having someone pretend to be his forces. Unless there was an attack that I don't even know about.
Beefy187
05-17-2009, 01:34
I thought that Shlin was the one victimized by having someone pretend to be his forces. Unless there was an attack that I don't even know about.
He was the one responsible for very first battle in the game.
His peasantish force got massacred by you lot :sweatdrop:
Ending this day in 30 minutes
Greyblades
05-17-2009, 01:34
Hmm I wonder if its the consulate that has been doing this. They did boast about their secret services, or maybe its one of the quiet one, Blackadder and Flax, who havent done anything on the thread in days.
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