I'll give you that is something I discount. I always assume that a small nation can go to war at pretty much any time and have troops on the front within days (at most). You're probably right though, Ohnar West probably can't put 4-5K in the field at the drop of a hat.
Well, with the core marshals potentially leaving Arcachon, I guess this will show if it's the marshals that make for the mobilization speed, or some hidden "these types of players" variable.
Its more a fact that for OW to pursue this course, it needs a certain noble elected to PM, and the election is a month away. In terms of mobilization speed, my experience is it required both. Organised Marshals that are able to generate enthusiasm are essential, but there is only so much they can do if your player base logs in every 2nd or 3rd turn. While active players alone are not effective without good marshals.
