Orders

I have received reliable and disturbing information. A big attack is coming against us.

We welcome the action and challenge, but we HAVE to be prepared. Here is what we need to do with the time we have.

First, remember: You can build buildings, wall defenses, troops and do academy research at the same time. Make sure you do, to maximize the time we have to prepare.

Some might say, "yeah, but I don't have enough lumber/food/whatever to do all that." To you I say:


IF YOU NEED RESOURCES, ASK FOR THEM

It helps all of us when all of us are developing as fast as possible. If there is a limiting factor on your development -- i.e., you need gold to research archery -- get in chat and ask for those resources. Do not be shy.

That's the watchword: keep developing. Farm those NPCs. Fill up your barracks and production queues for defenses. Ask for help if you need it.

DEFENSES

Archer towers are the number one priority. Keep them building constantly. Do not stop until your wall is filled up with defenses.

Traps are a good secondary measure. They are quick, cheap to build and efficient. Build them. Don't worry about building any more of the other things.


BARRACKS

Keep your barracks producing AT ALL TIMES. Top priority should be archers, cavalry and warriors, in that order. Try to get production queues lined up 24 hours in advance if you can. Two reasons: first, if something comes up in your life you'll keep producing, and second, enemies can't loot resources you've spent already.

Archers are the most versatile unit for attack and defense. Warriors are a cheap meat shield. And cavalry can help you transport goods quickly or reinforce enemies. Get those.



EMBASSY

Upgrade your embassy. If it's not at 9, get it there fast.

The higher level the embassy is, the more waves of support we can send. This is also why you build cavalry -- to send help fast if needed. And make sure the "garrison allied troops" box is checked.


RESEARCH

If you do not have archery 10, GET IT NOW. This may be the most important defense technology.


MAKE FRIENDS WITH NEIGHBORS

We have lots of allies and are going to get more. If you see a blue flag near you, email them if you haven't (or even if you have). Tell them war is coming. Tell them you'll have their back, and that all of us in Tuscany are going to have to stand together. Ask for their support in return.

And don't be afraid to mail them when things hit the fan.


IF THE WORST SHOULD HAPPEN

Here's what to do if attacked. You'll note one of the last resort things is "teleport out."

If you do, teleport to Tuscany, and try to get as close to 312, 479 as possible. That's where my main city is.

Good luck, thanks for your patience, and good hunting.