Battle/Choosing Sides

So you need to know when there's going to be a battle? And you don't know who is fighting with or against you? You're one of those people who points the sword towards themselves aren't you? Now don't get offended, I understand that diplomacy is a very complicated thing that is difficult to understand. If you throw unit settings on top of that, its a mess even an ambasador can't handle. So if you've got some time and a few mugs of ale, I can try to help you.