Lords of the Earth
Campaign Five

Main | Newsfaxes

GM NOTES TURN 13  -  Next Turn Due September 15th.

 

If something happens you do not understand email me I keep very good turn-by-turn notes and I can probably tell you why something happened. 

 

Turns Sheets: Please work diligently to make these clean.  Clean orders get processed faster and more efficiently.   If you can use the Turn sheet with the embedded excel please do so.  I really like the movement section on those a lot.  

 

 

Turn Sheets to you:  Please check your stat sheets when you get them rather than at the last minute.  Yes, I realize they should be perfect but sometimes it doesn’t happen that way.   If you check ahead of time it give time for things to get fixed rather than being in a rush.

 

 

SE’s and Hordes:                  Be warned …… They can start popping now.   I will say this about both, I do not expect that I will have an overly active Horde world, things seem to be active without there being one Horde active at all times.  I am not inclined to have freaky SE’s but historical ones yes.  I will set SE goals be warned. 

 

Don’t Forget  (I know this is hard to get used to) You can contact NPN’s and they just might be helpful.  NPN’s like making deals especially when it nets them money.    

 

Islands & Colonization and Building Cities:  You must colonize an island to zero before building a city on it.  This represents the very basic regional infrastructure necessary to assist the city in functioning.

 

When Visiting provinces for diplomatic purposes I will generally send you home before the end of the turn especially in the case of a nation.  Staying longer than the current turn is viewed as over staying your welcome.

 

Women Rulers:  Women can rule but the first time this happens there is a risk if you have Feudal Allies, SFA’s, EA’s or Allied provinces they will bail on you.  There are some variables on this based on the Queen’s stats.   Whenever a female takes the throne after the first time there is a small chance of problems once again stats of the Queen help determine the results.  

 

Multiple Wives:  Yes you can have them.  Two weaknesses of this, makes the possibility of a DF greater and eliminates the effectiveness of a political marriage.

 

ARMY BREAKDOWNS:

Ground troops:                 1 Unit = 200 Men

Field Forts:                1 Unit = 1 Field Fort  ****   NOTE  CHANGE ******

Naval Units:                1 Unit = 2 Ships

 

1060 - 1064:  Time of Unification

 

Mercenary Pool: 

If a leader is listed you must hire the leader and his troops, leaders minimum is 5GP plus the minimum of .5gp for regular and 1gp for elite troops unit. 

 

Northern Europe:                                                   Johan Olavsen                 855                          1HI, 10I 

                                                                                Independent                                                        10W, 10XW

Mediterranean (Catholic)                              Zulicini                                   649                          5HC, 5C

                            (Catholic)                              Barceli                                    856                          6EW

Non-Islamic                                                          Alicius                                   A44                         1EI, 10I Independent                                                           5HW, 15W

 

France, Spain, Italy,  Germany &                            Independents                                                      15I, 20XI

England, Scotland, Eire                                       Independent                                                        3C, 5XC

 

Any Nation on the Red Sea                           Horgan’s Free Co.                882                          5HEI, 10EI, 5S

Or East Africa

 

Egypt, Morocco & Cordoba:                           Taureg Clan                        833                          3XEC, 20XC

Independents                                                                10XC, 10XI

 

Hungary, Serbia, Russia, Poland                G. D’Kolner                                 769                                6HEC, 10EC

REE                                                                                                                                                        3XEC     

 

Hungary, Serbia, Russia, Poland                     Independents                                                      3HI, 7I, 15XI

Independents                                                                5C, 10XC

 

Buhwayids, Egyptians, Yemen & Shiraz                Independents                (Moslem)                               7C, 15XC     

 

Central Asia                                                                                                                                         30XC

 

Buddhist & Lamanist Nations                                Monk Jaing                       816                          8HEI

 

India Proper                                                        Deccan Raiders                    824                          10XEC

Independents                                                                5I, 10XI

Independents                                                                8XC               

 

Asia (naval)                                                           Independents                                                      10XW

 

SE Asia & So. China                                     Chou Yun                         888                          6EC

Independent                                                                5C, 10XC

 

N.China, Korea, Japan                                     Independents                                                      50XC

                                                                                Ju Jin                                      A55                         8EC, 10XEC

Africa: 

 

Shia:  +1CL Jerusalem

The Shia completed their Jerusalem Project.   Jerusalem is now one of the jewels of the Middle East and its population of almost six hundred thousand, mostly Shia, people live within it’s confines.  The Shia church began devoting efforts toward improving their follower’s lands too.  The Egyptians and Tunisians benefited greatly.

 

Egypt:  +1CL Benghazi and Alexandria, Sicily (FA)

In 1063 tragedy struck the royal family very hard, Jihan died in a riding accident at only the age of 22.  Fasil was grief stricken but the Empire comes before all else and so business continued as usual after a brief period of mourning.    Fasil’s brother-in-law also passed early in the cycle of a heart attack, his sister and her children were left ruling over the southern province of Thebes, fortunately the local Coptics embraced the Queen and her children.  Egyptian military and naval contingents watched over the areas in the Fatimid sphere of influence vigilantly, with all of the trouble in Italy, so near Sicily, there was cause for concern.  A diplomatic tour of the domains by trusted aid to the empire Ahmet went very well.   He was warmly received in all lands he visited which included; Sicily, Algeria and Tunis.  He was happy to report back to emperor Fasil that all remains calm in the outlying realms.  Jerusalem was fortified and defensive plans were laid out incase anyone decided that the Fatimid ruled unjustly in the Holy Land and tried to move in. 

 

Ghana:  Royal Road all the way to the Coast, Galam (F)

Slaves collected last cycle were assigned to the important road project to connect the capital to the sea.    The Illustrious and terribly effective Lord Botwe journeyed to Galem and secured the servitude of the region.

 

On the military front King Kanissa’ai and his eldest brother, Mali, took a large portion of the army and headed north Khalem then Senegal and lastly Gambia.  The conquest and enslavement of Khalem went off without much difficulty.  In Senegal a prepared Senegalese defense made for some tough sledding (not that anyone in Africa knows what a sled is).    The Senegalese put up stiff resistance but the Ghanan troops were too well equipped and too numerous to be resisted.  One thing the Senegalese defense did do was it allowed many to flee to the north into Taureg Lands.  The Tauregs ignored these wanders for the most part because they stuck to the coast and because the Taureg clans where currently scattered and weak.  Kanissa’ai returned with a few less slaves and troops than he expected but it was not of great concern as he had still gathered a large number of slaves that he would use for his up coming projects.

 

Prince Musa the Unsightly and General Askari marched south with a sizable infantry force.  First to fall victim to enslavement was Tusyam, then the group traveled to Burkina and Borogoru were poisoned darts cost Musa his life.  The charismatic and strong military leader Askari seized the opportunity.  He took control of the troops and marched them into Togo.  Here he crushed all opposition and then persuaded the Ghanan troops to revolt.  The Ghanan troops remembering the hardships of the jungle and the newly founded oppressive regime of Kanissa’ai decided the lands of Togo would be a fine place to live.   Askari also marched into Yoruba and claimed it as well.  All the slaves they had gathered were “granted” their freedom and the city of Ivory was founded.  It was not much more than a shantytown but it was now the capital.

 

Kanissa’ai was none to please when his brother did not return he was even less pleased when he heard he had been betrayed by one of his generals.  In other news the populations of the regions adjacent to Ghana began to move deeper into the jungles and wilderness regions in hopes of avoiding the Ghanan slave teams.

 

Morocco: Arguin (T), Sijilmasa (NE)

The Moroccan government continued to expand their holding down the western coast of Africa.  Diplomatic mission to Arguin and Sijilmasa both were initiated this cycle.  In Arguin the very efficient chief diplomat of the royal Moroccan court secured tribute from the locals.  In Sijilmasa things were a bit different as the locals had no liking for the heir to the Moroccan throne and they sent him packing.  This was fine because Ah’alab died and the Prince was needed at home to assume the throne.

 

Sunni Church: 

The Sunni church is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with.  Expansion occurred in the Eastern Med and the few remaining regions in the West that did not have Cathedrals are getting them.  Mullah Hakim treaded the sands of the deserts and spread the faith.

 

Algeria:  Bared Gleb built in Al Hauts

 

Tunisia:   +1CL Mahida

The Tunisians continue to increase the size of their fortified city of Mahida.  The also added many urban improvements to make the capital a better place to live.  In the tension filled Med. the King decided that it would be a good idea to add 2000 men to their armed forces.

 

Hausa:    +1CL Zaria, Ife (F)

Hausa stirred themselves from their defensive posture and the kingdom was happy.  Ife was happy too that the Hausa finally got off their duff because they were concerned about the coming of the Ghanan slave raiders.  Ife flat out joined the Hausa kingdom due to effective diplomacy and the fear of the Ghanans.  The Hausa now have access to the Endless Sea and it vast riches, in fish.

 

Kanem:  Ngaiarjuma and Nijimi +1 CL, Jos (FA), Kafin (NT), Kreda (NE)

The King declared another diplomatic initiative and set his leaders out into the countryside to say those who are not part of the kingdom to become part of the kingdom.  The efforts met with reasonable success as the Kingdom of Kanem finally has access to a river in Kafin.  This is viewed as being of absolute strategic importance to the long time health and well being of the Kanem state.   Jos became a little friendlier as well.  At home economic development was viewed as the corner stone to a lasting future and so cities where built and expanded.

 

Zagwe:  Soba +1CL, Fortress constructed in Axum, Nubia & Suakin (NT)

The realm continues to be blessed by very capable leaders.  Chief Ambassador Yekuno was dispatched to the provinces of Nubia and Suakin where he secures the arrangements Queen Mera II had requested he secure.  At home everything was peaceful until Mera III died in childbirth.  She did give birth to a daughter who survived the trauma of birth but Mera II was very upset by this turn of events.  Also upset by this turn of events was the Ethiopian royal family.  The Ethiopians took this as a sign that the relations with the Zagwe were not blessed by God and so they put an end to the Feudal arrangement. 

 

The Kordofan tribesmen went on a rampage and chased out the tribesmen in the region that had adopted the Coptic faith, they fled to the lands of Zagwe for asylum.  The Kordofan troops did not pursue.

 

 

Ethiopia: +1CL Gonder

Economic Development

 

Coptic Church:  +1 CL New Alexandria

The church continues slowly but surely to expand.  Especially important to these efforts is the work in the city of New Alexandria where not only did the city expand but great many improvements also occurred.  There was one troubling issue.  The Tribesmen of Kordofan decided the Coptic message was not one they wanted to hear.  As a matter of fact they disliked the message so much they killed the bringers of the message.  Marcus the enlightened passed at the very end of the cycle. 

 

Kilwa:  Comoros +1GPV

A colony was fully established on the strategic Comoros Islands.  Kenan took his rightful place beside his father in the Kilwan hierarchy.   Kenan is an odd looking child, he looks a bit pale compared to everyone else but because he is a good fighter and very eloquent when speaking he should see few problems should he need to become king.  The big news this cycle was the arrival of strange men dressed in odd colored robes made of strange materials.  These men had skin of yellow and odd-looking eyes.  They caused quite a stir but they speak of spiritual matters that the king is very interested in.

 

Zanzibar:

After much deliberation on the future of the Indian Ocean realm Zanzibar and Betismarka decided a merger of their two realms might help facilitate future prosperity and so the lands of Betismarka joined the Island kingdom of Zanzibar.

 

 

Zimbabwe:  Port City of Kaumbe in Gorongo, Luangua (F)

Kimbuson seeking to secure his kingdom militarily stepped down from the throne on his 57th birthday and handed over the administration of the government to his brother Kimjala.  This seemed like the wise thing to do but in a somewhat sorry twist of fate Kimbuson was murdered brutally on his way to the Zulu nation.  No one was named in the assault but some suspected the new king.  The opening of a coastal city should be a great boon to the economy of the Zimbabwean nation as their only trade partner is the rather poor Zulu’s.

 

Zulu Nation: 

Zulu bided their time waiting for things to happen.

 

 

 

Europe:

 

The Orthodox faithful gathered huge contingents of ships and manpower to recover the dissidents fleeing Catholic oppression.  A VERY large allied naval contingent moved into the Ionian and supported not only the evacuation of the Orthodox citizens on Sicily, much to the relief of the Fatimid regime, but also the Kingdom of Naples.  Some troops were moved into the port city of Regillio to make sure the Tuscans did not inflict the oppression on the people of Calabria like they had on Campagna.  Surprisingly little conflict occurred in southern Italy.  Rumors did circulate about Orthodox atrocities against Catholics in the north but few believed that it was actually true since there were few Orthodox leaders remaining in the Campagna after the horrific atrocities of last cycle by the Tuscans.   

 

Bolgars:

This was a turn of Economic development.  The Bolgar army was determined to be large enough to stop most civilized interlopers and that was good enough for the Bolgar King.

 

Kiev:  Smolensk and Kiev +1CL, Sudzal (EA), Atelzuko (NE), Torki (C), Kostroma (Revolt)

 

The Kievian court got a surprise visitor this cycle.  It seems al-Basasari was not welcome or comfortable in the lands of the Byzantine Empire so he and his wife traveled north to the bitter but friendlier lands.  That was the hope at least.  Rumors persisted of some riders where hot on the heels of the rightful heir to the throne but no one was 

 

Laurnia ruled wisely over the realm and educated her youngest brother in the disciplines of being in power.  Her specialty was administration and Yaroslav II learned well from his sister.  A great many diplomatic endeavors were undertaken in hopes the Empire could be expanded and solidified.   These were a mixed bag but at least finally Sudzal was coming around.

 

Olav the Foul and the Bishop of Smolensk journeyed to the lands of Kostroma.  Olav was a foul tempered individual totally lacking in diplomatic skill and nearly as lacking in appearance.  Dispatching him to conduct religious conversions was somewhat questionable but the Queen gave the orders and he followed them.  There was some hope the guidance given by the Bishop of Smolensk would be the boost Olav needed preach effectively for God.  The Queen had sent along some Cossack special troops to make sure the leaders did not come to harm and the region.  In 1063 the Olav took ill from a late season snowstorm and died.  The Bishop continued his work until some of the Kostroma tribals decided that they had enough of the constant caterwauling about religion and the assaulted the Bishop and his escort.  They were wiped out and while some “agents of the Empire” tried to put down the uprising and but were ineffective.

 

 

Novgorod:  Novgorod +1CL

Ivan I looked over his domains and he was pleased.  Cities occupied every province of his domains.  The Orthodoxy had taken hold in nearly all his lands as well and this was truly a blessing in the once Barbarian hinterlands.  Ivan felt he needed greater access to the Baltic Sea so he sent two of his trusted aides to Turku, General Feodor and Prince Vladimir.  This caused a bit of a diplomatic incident.  Sadly the BTC also had decided Turku would be a fine place to set up shop and so all cycle the political finagling went on.  Ivan I and Prince Vladimir both perished in the bitterly cold winter of 1062, Ivan II ascended the throne unopposed.  At the end of the cycle the Turku decided to align themselves with the BTC.  Feodor disappointed knew that he and the prince had done all they could and he returned home to Novgorod.

 

Galica:   Galich Cultivated              

The home province was finally cultivated after many years of back breaking labor.  In celebration of this event many cavalry units were added to the rolls to protect the newly cultivated province.  Prince Marcus took the throne unopposed.

    

England:  Cornwall (T), Dyffed (C)

Athelstan marries off his youngest daughter Edwina to a noble of some repute in hopes that this arrangement would pave the way for some little royals.  The ceremony was nothing special but at least the guest were fed properly, it was noted by the social classes of Europe as being barely above the level of the Byzantine royal marriage to the Serbian Princess.   Perfectly understandable based on the rough and tumble nature of the English who are still closely associated with the savage Vikings.

 

Diplomatic efforts continued on the former lands of Wales this met with some success.

 

Athelstan met with the kingdoms nobles to inform them that should anything happen to him that his wife Molly would continue to rule as Queen.  While there was some minor grumbling about this Molly was especially charismatic and diplomatic nearly comparable to Elizabeth of Germany. 

 

Celtic Church: 

Assisted in the development of their loyal followers.

 

An Edict was issued to all followers of the Celtic Church.  With only a small group of loyal nations following the religious teachings of the Celtic Church all conflict between Celtic states is strict forbidden without just cause. 

 

Ireland:

With a great deal of interest being paid to the Emerald Isle the Irish decided it was time to devote their energies to the defense of their two cities.  Walls were constructed in a most efficient manner.

 

Norway: 

Slept

 

Orkney/Scotland: 

Scotland once again put forth a spirited effort to sway the Irish to becoming subservient to the Scottish throne.  The Irishmen where an independent lot and that coupled with no money and a minor ideological difference kept the Scots at bay.    At the age of 19 Walter II became the proud father, this was an important birth because the child was a son and had the blood of both the Irish and Scottish thrones in his veins.

 

 

Poland:  Pomerainia (NE)

Gifts from the Pope helped with the cultivation of Kauyavia and there was much rejoicing.  The efforts of all the political leaders but the King who ruled, that can’t be screwed up can it Allen?  The efforts to convert Obodria ended in the Heir to the throne being chased out of the province.  The religious work in Pomerainia, the usually pliable people, also went miserably but no blood was shed because of the events in this province.  The King continued to work hard to improve the religious lot of his people and he continues to succeed.

 

Baltic Pagans: 

The King of the Litts decided that having some troops would be a good idea.  Sure he had the local garrisons but he needed some troops for a standing military.  After some effort gathering resources a mostly infantry force was constructed. 

 

Baltic Trade Coalition:  Turku (T)

The BTC has some unexpected competition in Turku but when all was said and done the superior diplomatic ability and larger delivery of gold paid off in the province.

 

HRE:

Huge investment in public infrastructure was made.  Elizabeth had no other concern than making sure that her nation as strong as possible before her departure from this earth.   Now Elizabeth still seemed very healthy so most people ignored her muttering about departing the world.  

 

In 1062 the King of Bavaria, Leopold I, died under mysterious circumstances.  This was a great tragedy and was nearly followed by the death of Leopold II who thanks to his quick blade and great skill defended himself from a would be assassin these assassins appeared to be Italian in origin, likely Venetian but all of that would be speculation until a full investigation could be done.  Leopold the II petitioned the Queen to send Bavaria’s favored son to check out the situation.  The Von Ryan’s were renown for their prowess in such issues and had long called Bavaria home.   

 

Leopold’s brother, Augustin, husband to Elizabeth’s daughter Agnes urged his wife to petition the Queen as well.   It was hoped that the urgent request for assistance would have an effect on the Queen.  Leopold II assumed the throne with full support of the armed services and his brother.  It seems the assassination strengthened the solidarity of the nobles and the royal family.  In an odd turn of events rumors circulated that the will of the Duke of Bavaria had stated his lands were to become part of Queen Elizabeth’s greater Germany.  This was very odd indeed since there was a named heir and her son in law would be the next in line to the Bavarian throne should anything happen to Leopold II.  Rumors and heresy in courts was not uncommon especially when there was a change in leadership so this bit was soon forgotten.

 

Von Ryan toiled away in Southern Italy looking for nefarious individuals, as did many others.

 

 

Carinthia: 

The capital was beautified as much as it could be.  In the Southern part of the nation the military was ever watchful of revolt from the Orthodox population in Apulia.

 

Kingdom of Italy:  Spoleto & Campagna (FA)

Waited for an evil to befall them that never did.  

 

In 1061 Pietro did die at the age of 77.  The Orthodox Community said it was because of the guilt he felt order the brutal butchery of so many innocents in the previous cycle.  The Catholics Pietro’s death was old age.  Pietro II said nothing because he was dead.  Pietro II ruled from 1020 to 1061 and during that time he became the unquestioned ruler of all of Italy.   He managed to successful separate his kingdom from the Holy Roman Empire, becoming the Holy Roman Empire of Italy or the Southern Holy Roman Empire.  Sadly for Pietro II his reign will mostly be remembered for his orders to inflict a catastrophic blow against the people of the Naples and Campania.

 

Bishop Alexander also died this cycle at the age of 83, while it was the “cough” that got him many suspected that his involvement in the events in Naples had been a burden on his soul in his waning years and that is what finally brought him down.

 

Athena took control of Italy supported by he husband Otto and his big army.  There was no apparent problem with the ascension.   In order to divest herself of her fathers blackest mark Athena assigned leaders to the administrative roles of managing Spoleto and Campagna.  Both men assigned were very capable diplomatically though lacking in military acumen, in fact these men were very much pretty boys who are unlikely to ever have touched a weapon or tool with even a sharp knife.

 

See Europe Section

 

Bohemia:  Bohemia Cultivated

Hooray!  Cultivation of the Homeland!  Life is suddenly better.

 

Bavaria: 

Knighthood flourished in Bavaria this cycle.  A huge amount of men were equipped in the finest Bavarian manufactured armor, given excellent horses who also had fine barding, heavy lances and beautifully fashioned swords.  It was hoped that these men would serve the Kingdom and the Empire well.

 

Pope:   Rome +1 CL, Many small facilities

The Pope issued many orders and saw to the productive operation of his empire.  He had removed the burden of land ownership and the questionable practices that involved.  It is actually ironic that the time the Pope chooses to divest themselves of lands, one of the major bones of contention with the Orthodox Church.  A good amount of effort was put into converting the Orthodox in Spoleto this had very little effect as the missionaries were poorly prepared for the rigors of the now hostile Orthodox citizens.

 

Branist: Many low level facilities across France 

An emissary of the Tuscan throne, Andrea enemy to the Holy Roman Emperor (Oh sorry wrong game), came calling.  Gregor Jacobson was busy administering the growing domains of the Order in France and so had plenty of time to spend on small talk with Andrea. 

 

Gregor     Welcome to our humble realm

Andrea    The city prospers under the guidance of the Branist

Gregor     The French rule the realm we the King does allow us a great deal of sway in the province and the city in exchange for protection of the region

Andrea    I noted that the lands were very heavily patrolled

Gregor     We are pleased with our arrangement with all the “French” states but I suspect you came to discuss other matters

Andrea    I did indeed, we are concerned about the Orthodox faithful in southern Italy.

Gregor     Ha! Indeed, you master brutally murders thousands and you are worried about them?

Andrea    They assassinated the Heir to the throne and one of our military leaders

Gregor     He who dances with the fire sometimes tastes the flame

Andrea    What?!

Gregor     Men put in harms way sometimes become victims. 

Andrea    It is intolerable to strike down a member of the nobility

Gregor     It does not appear that the wise Pietro was unprepared for his son’s death

Andrea                Preparedness is not a crime

Gregor     No violating the sanctity of a Christian religious site is as is the slaughter of helpless women and children

Andrea    The were the Orthodox and responsible for the slaughter of our future King

Gregor     In more primitive times it was thought that the butchery of ones enemy was an acceptable course of action my order does not prescribe to that notion in the case of Christians killing Christians at least.  It is not so long ago that we call to Orthodox brothers our brothers?   Tell your King this.

 

                Pietro,

               

                The Branist order has no desire to involve it’s self in the military concerns of your realm however, if you confess your sins before God and the Pope and ask forgiveness in the twilight of your life, then the Branist Order will step in, with the blessing of the Pope and attempt to bring a peaceful resolution to southern Italy.  Consider our request and inform us of you decision.

 

                Gregor Jacobson – Master of the Branist Order

 

 

 

France:  Paris & Tours +1CL

The French under King Michael continued their balanced development.  Michael established the Home Guard to protect Paris in times of trouble no expense was spared on the formation of this unit and several veterans of the Burgundian war were put in charge of maintaining strict drilling and discipline over these soldiers.    Paris was now the jewel of France nearly as large as many of the greatest cities in the world and there was definitely a need for a defensive force to make sure nothing happened to this prized French possession.

 

In a daring diplomatic move the French King sent two of his best diplomats to the dissenting provinces of Limousin and Auvernge to quell the building unrest of the local nobles.  Money was distributed and the Archbishop of Lyon and the highly charismatic Lawrence of Champagne eased tensions.  This was a highly successful effort and the Michael was very happy.  

 

Gascony:

War was in the winds and the Gascon’s did not want to be caught off guard so even more troops were added to the army.  Gascony prided themselves on their superior footmen and they had many a heavily armed foot knight in their national army.

 

Aquitaine:

Some economic development

 

Leon:  +1CL Leon

The Death of Thomas I:  While not the king of the lands of Leon it would be hard to find a leader that had more of an effect on the health and well being of a nation than Thomas.  Thomas the brother of Francis the King and the more skilled militarily started his distinguished military career by wreaking a horrible amount of damage on the armies of Cordoba during their war that lasted from 1000 – 1004.  Though he lost the homeland in 1004 but the damage inflicted on the Cordobans had been devastating enough that the Cordobans sued for peace.    Thomas the most respected general, possibly, in Western Europe was called on by France to aid in the conquest of Burgundy.  The campaign went off well and Burgundy was conquered.   Then followed the campaign against Portugal.  In every battle in Portugal Thomas’s lesser forces proved victorious even though the Portuguese were very tenacious and were supported by the North African States.  Thomas while never having numerical superiority won many battles and helped establish the kingdom of Leon’s dominance of Northern Spain for 50 years.

 

The Kingdom of Leon seeing that the Cordobans were becoming more active again decided to bolster the army to make sure the Cordovans did not cast their eyes north again.  Francis II was nearly as capable as his uncle Thomas so he was not too concerned about whether he could handle the Cordovans but he certainly would prefer to have peace if possible.  

 

Cordoba: +1CL Valencia and Palina

The leadership of Cordoba was slightly confused this turn so most of them sat idle.  One dashing young chap however wishing fame and glory for his family sailed south to Senegal to conduct diplomacy.  Much to his chagrin when he arrived they were in the middle of a war for survival.  Not to miss an opportunity for adventure this Habib and his entourage involved themselves in some fierce battles with the Ghanans.  It was quite the fun adventure and while it amounted to a lost cause Habib and his little group had great tales to tell when they returned to the north. 

 

Hungary:  +1 CL  Pecs and Buda

The aged King and his son both died in a carriage accident on the way to triplet’s birthday party.  It was a tragedy that would be long remembered in the kingdom.  The family was huge but very dedicated to the health and well being of the nation so Mathias took the throne unopposed.  The Hungarians continue to internally develop as the sister cities both grew this cycle.

 

In a related note the Royal Carriage maker was publicly flogged and sent to the gallows for building such dangerous carriages.

 

Serbia: 

More work on the communication networks for the kingdom someday it will bear fruit, the new king Mikhail II was certain.  In an effort to express their displeasure over the Tuscan actions in Southern Italy trade was cut with the Tuscans and the Holy Roman Empire.  The King made the trip to the south to attend the wedding ceremony.

See Europe Section 

 

Montenegro: 

See Europe Section

 

Greece:  +1 City Level Faistos

Building tensions in Southern Italy spurred Greece out of its long slumber and into mobilization mode.  Men and boys were recruited to not only join the armed forces but also to help with the construction of many walls around cities.  The Greek navy, which had not fully recovered from the war with Valentin, was brought back up to full strength and everyone was happy about that.

 

Athens was the site of a very extravagant marriage ceremony between Prince Pericles of Greece and Princess Katerina of Montenegro.  The blood between Greek and Bulgar had never been very good but King Baris had high hopes that this arrangement would help improve relations for many years to come.  Baris sadly only lived a short time past the actually ceremony but he did get to be part of the important union and that made his heart jump for joy one last time.  Several important dignitaries attended this wedding including the heir to the Byzantine throne, Michael.   The importance of this should not be understated; it appears that maybe the ice is thawing between Greece and the Byzantines after the recent struggles. 

 

“also see Europe Section” 

 

Kingdom of Trebizond:  Taman +1GP (thanks to the Church)

Nothing to see here keep moving. 

 

Bulgaria: 

Waited and watched.

 

Byzantines:  Cappadocia (T), Pamphyla (NE), Vaspurkan (T)

The Byzantines supported their allies the Montenegrins and Greeks in the Ionian with a very large fleet, no ill befell the participants and the Royal Fleet returned to Athens unscathed.   Admiral Quintus who had for years been a loyal and faithful servant to the Empire though not necessarily the Emperors died in Athens in 1063.  He had been a dominant force on the high seas for 20 years and had successfully smashed the Greek fleet during the War of the Three Kings. 

 

In the East a good amount of work was put into pulling many of the former lands of the Byzantine Empire back into the realm.  This went reasonably well even though the efforts were hampered by a complete absence of any gifting being done.  It was expected by most leaders that when a powerful nation like the Byzantines came calling to bring something in the way of gifts to grease the palms of local officials.  

 

The King concerned that there might be some things going on his country that were questionable did some investigative work in a couple of regions.  While he had a nose for such things Jovian turned nothing up.  Haspiritus did disappear in the deserts of Pamphyla and was never seen again. 

 

Patriarch:

The Patriarch of the Orthodox Church continues to be extremely benevolent to his followers.  Road projects, cultivation projects & public works are the currency of the Orthodox Church.  Strengthened by the recent turn of events in Italy the Orthodox church found renewed vigor in their faith.  Religious efforts in Ragusa went well, efforts in Zara didn’t result in anything spectacular.  Lots of facilities were constructed this cycle.    

               

 

Mercenary League:

Misery in Europe means money, money and more money.  The Mercenary League enjoyed all the ill will that was spreading throughout the lands and they took advantage of it as they dispatched Catholic Mercenaries to work in Italy non-denominational mercenaries to work in the Eastern Med.  It was all good.

 

Middle East:  

 

Buhwayids: 

The newly anointed King of the Buhwayids Hakkim decided that the upstart Persians refusing to pay tribute was more than he could bear so he took his huge Cavalry army over the mountains supported by a very large contingent of freshly recruited engineers and attacked Persia.  The total amount of troops brought on this expedition was 60 thousand or so.  The Persians had no good answer with only 9000 cavalry defending the homeland along with a sizable number of walled villages along the Silk Road.    On the crossing the Buhwayids ran into a little trouble.  The mountain passes to the Persian homeland were reinforced with strong points.  The cavalry did not like these too well and the small number of infantry and huge number of engineers were charged with the task of removing this problem.  It was time-consuming work but it was taken care of in an efficient manner.   Once on the Persian plain the huge numbers of Buhwayid cavalry swept down and scooped up large swaths of land.  The Persians led by the very capable and ancient Dasht' Nha.  He had sent his heavy units out of the province already and chose to defend with only his 5000 light lancers and horse archers.  He harried and harassed the well-led river dwellers till his troops were exhausted.  Finally the Buhwayid cornered him a Qom and there he made his final stand.

 

In the Camp of Dash’t Nha outside of Qom the Troops were restless and exhausted.  The enemy was numerous and tomorrow likely all of them were going to die at the hands of the Buhwayids.  The venerable Dash’t Nha gathered all his men around a huge fire.  The feast was a great one on this night since there was very little reason to save supplies.  Dash’t first brought forth several men….wetlanders!  Men of the Tigris & Euphrates had been caught trying to infiltrate the camp.  Dash’t spoke……

 

Regardless of what happens tomorrow the message has gone out to all of my people.  While we have valiantly defended the homeland the other soldiers I sent off when the invasion began are traveling throughout the lands letting the people of Persia know the truth about the dwellers of the Crescent.  How their religion is tainted and they do not praise Allah as he should be praised.  Allah has spoken to me and he told me “Destroy Persia’s enemies and you will destroy the enemies of Allah.”  With that Dash’t Nha drew his sword and slew his prisoners.  I slay these men and rid the world of corruptors and the unfaithful, men blind to the true vision of Allah.  Allah rewards us tonight with a great feast and tomorrow we will be given the opportunity to do battle with the devil.  While we will all likely die we will die as men and tomorrow night Allah will feast with us in Paradise.

 

No one slept the night before the battle and so in the darkness of July 15th, 1061 the 3000 or so remaining light cavalry all the men mounted up.  In order to incite fear in the enemy the men of Persia tied oiled rags to the tips of their lances and set them alight then they all rode into the night lead by the 71 year old Dash’t Nha. 

 

In the camp of the Buhwayid host 30 – 40 thousand men slept.  At about 4:30 AM the horses started getting restless.  The sentries on watch saw what appeared to be a great flaming ball headed for the camp.  The ground began to shake a bit and the alarm went up.  The Buhwayid encampment sprung to life.  Soldiers scrambled quickly to get their armor on and mount up.  The fireball got closer and closer, some suspected some form of demonic magic and fled fearing they would get incinerated and languish in hell having not died in an honorable fashion.  The Buhwayids were efficient and they prepared reasonably well for the onslaught, which came.  The scary flaming lances made an impression on the Buhwayids.  Then the crazed Persians pulled their short swords and engaged in fierce melee combat.  The Buhwayid troops armor made them tough to kill and the battle ended not to long after the initial impact of the Persians with flaming lances wore off.  The Persians died to a man or so the Buhwayids reported. 

 

With the Persian army gone from the region and all of the fortified towns in flames or subdued the Persian Cavalry army surrounded the city of Isfahan.  The Siege Engineers constructed some weapons of war, battering rams ladders and the like.  The walls of the city were fairly high and there were a nominal amount of troops within the city.  The Buhwayids still had a very large number of siege engineers and some of the Royal Guard to break the city.   The first assault was a bloody one and the Buhwayids were repulsed, they had made serious headway though.  Hakkim ordered a second assault and told the Captain of Baghdad, al-Jabarti, that failing a second time would not be wise.  Jabarti did not disappoint the walls were fully breeched and the defenders overwhelmed and brutally slaughtered.  Then the troops fell on the citizens and the slaughter was horrific, though not Naplesesque.  The homes were looted and burned and then after all the valuables were confiscated.  This was a very horde like act as many cavalrymen were riding through the streets and the riders were grabbing up women, riding in to houses and other buildings and grabbing whatever could be taken.  It was mayhem.  The Buhwayid King then ordered the population be enslaved.  There were not near as many people to enslave as there were prior to the sacking of the city but some slaves were taken. 

 

The Buhwayids then turned against the people of the province who were streaming out of the province to the North, East and South, Loot was taken and the people were enslaved.  Nothing is left in this once rich province.

               

Persia: 

War with Buhwayids.  Some Shia Missionaries were rounded up and killed in the Shadad province this cycle; they were attempting to stifle the spread of the Persian strain of Islam.  The missionaries when stripped and placed on poles to die in the hot sun where discovered to be quite odd.  They were tattooed in odd ways that none of the local militia could make sense of; these men were well versed in the Koran though.

 

 

Azerbajain: 

King Faz decided to establish the Royal guard so he gathered 400 highly trained men and equipped them and their horses as best as they could.

 

Shia missionaries swarmed through the provinces trying to sway the locals to the virtues of the Shia path.  This met with limited success.  Rumors circulated in the capital that a number of Shia missionaries were found dead in the border areas with Armenia. 

 

Yemen: 

Yemen was once again active; as yet another push to rid the African coast of Hindu’s occurred.   This time Yemen was much better prepared for fighting the defensive positions of the Chalukyans.    Babar drove into the province and dislodged the defensive structures from the region after some bloody fighting.  The locals were not terribly happy about this event and are very hopeful that their conqueror treats them as well as the Hindu’s did.  Onto the city of Raas Haafuun.  Babar was nearly assassinated as his army closed in around the city.   The Army dug in and waited for the fleet to show up.  Spies reported back to Babar setting up outside the city that the walls were think and the gate sturdy.  Also there was a large, 40 Ships, Chalukyan fleet with marines patrolling the area.  Babar immediately sent word to the king to not send the Yemenese fleet to support him.  Babar contemplated the current situation and decided that the ring around the city would be loosened a little so that none of his men would be killed by stray arrows and catapult shot from the walls.  He would be satisfied to control the region at this juncture and wait.

 

In other news the missionaries sent to Somolia disappeared.

 

 

Ghazi:  Lumanca rebuilt

Ghazi merged with the Edrosians after many many years of negotiations intermarriages etc.  The Ghazi began work on becoming an Agrarian society.

 

Edrosia:  Merged with the Ghazi

               

Chorasmia:   Samarkhand conquered!

It was time to exact some revenge and the Chorasmian juggernaut 15 – 20K Horsemen with supporting engineers was ready so the rolled into Samarkhand like the Seljuk horde and took what they wanted.  Samarkhand tried valiantly to defend itself but they were no match for the military acumen of Hasim Salik who had just recently taken over the country.  He was every bit the strategist his namesake was though he was not nearly as loved by the men.  The Samarkhand capital fell due to starvation in 1062 and the rest of the nation bent a knee shortly there after lacking the will to fight.  This event also caused the Frunze Caliphate to fade into oblivion as well.

 

Samarkhand:  RIP

 

 

India: 

 

WAR Between Uttar Pradesh and Tripuri continues. 

 

A great many towns in Vasta were refortified and many strategic positions saw palisades erected.  Many Siege Engineers were also put to work enhancing the hardened structures putting up spike traps, low trenches and things of the nature.  King Sula came to the region to take control of the situation and he brought a between 6-7000 cavalry most of the army was heavy horse.   He also ordered the navy to patrol the Upper Ganges and make sure that no armies cross.    

 

The Southerners did not move against the Raj of Uttar Paradesh until 1063 and when they came they came in much the same way they did before.   The Trupuri attacked with large amounts of light infantry and cavalry as well as many mercenaries and ineffective assassins.  The battles in the region were primarily skirmishes as opposed to a great central battle.  The Tripuri became more raiders than possible conquerors.    Battles raged across the province for the better part of a year.  The brilliant Dyupati terrorized villages burned forts and so on but the Raj was somewhat up to the task, the enhanced defensive structures took a little greater toll on the Southern Army than they had last time around.   

 

Dyupati realized that while disrupting the supply lines of the UP army might be an effective tactic in a long drawn out engagement it had not been effective enough mainly due to all the fortified positions throughout the land.    Shortly after the beginning of 1064 the Tripuri and the Uttar Pradesh armies met on a plain near the provincial capital of Kalanjara.    Both armies were fresh after last years campaigning and anxious to engage.  Many horse archers and short swords men with little armor supported a smattering of mercenary infantry and missile troops on the Tripuri side.  The Raj on the other hand had many Heavy horsemen with armor and shield as well as some very high quality foot. 

 

Dyrupati tried to out maneuver his foe and conduct hit and run tactics in the open fields.  The lack of penetrating punch by the missile troops was telling though as the heavy foot and cavalry had their way on this day.  The UP Raj pushed his forces and they responded.  While not brilliant tactically he was quite charismatic and the men would fight and die for him.  The UP Heavy horse smashed into the ground forces of the Tripuri while arrows and spears rained down on them.  The Tripuri line splinter to pieces and the Tripuri broke and ran.   Dyrupati withdrew easily covering his ground troops with his horse archers, there was no pursuit.

 

Dyrupati returned to Jhijhoti.

 

Tibet:  Assam and Bhutan Fortified

The Tibetan military state continues to be exactly that.  Two provinces are fortified to help Tibet better defend itself from foul Hindu influences.  Some field forts are also constructed.

 

Lamanist Tibet:  Several Cathedrals were built in Burma and Ceylon.  Nais was colonized at the request of Ceylon.

The Lamanist concentrated on building up their followers rather than expanding this turn.   They did send a missionary to the lands of Kilwa though in hopes of securing a loyal following in Africa.   The leadership was stretched thin and so the Grand Lama called on his loyal followers to send their unwanted princes to him in hopes of bolstering his staff.

 

At home things were most troubling.  The Hsia situation would not go away as the war raged in the North.  The Zhou had come calling as well seeking spiritual guidance in this time of troubles and the though it was the policy of the Lamanist church not to get involved in the affairs in China it was becoming more and more evident that something would have to be done soon though there was not certain way of determining what the best course of action would be. 

 

Punjab:  Merged with Kashmir               

Long time allies merged together in an effort to better both nations from the encroachment from east and west.

 

Shiva Church of Kashmir:

Went about their business making sure that the merger went well.

 

Kucha:   Kuqa and Urumqi +1 CL, Beshablik (A), Wusu (F)

The Kuchan’s continued to lure the northern tribes into a more structured society.  These efforts were largely successful and the kingdom grew.  With the help of the Church the homeland became much more valuable.  Many people from the surrounding steppe regions came to settle in the Kuchan homeland.

               

Manichaeans: +1GPV in Kucha

Not a ton done this cycle as a large effort was devoted to the improvement of the Kuchan home province.

 

Paramara Alliance:  Tarain (T)

The lands of the Gujerat Emperor were a top priority.  The lands of the Paramara princes had been strife ridden for nearly 40 years or so it seems.   Mrigai II was very powerful and he might be just the strong hand that the nation needs to lead it into the tenth century.  Tarain actually listened to the message brought by the Emperor this cycle and submitted somewhat to his will.   In the south an Avanti Lord married the sister of the Emperor and became a prince of the realm.

 

Bengal:

In 1060 and 1061 things seemed to be going all right in the Bengal nation, there was of course a problem brewing.  The Brahmins had seized the Lamdu site, which was very upsetting to the Lamdu faithful however a huge amount of troops had accompanied the Bithra II, and so there was nothing the Lamdu could do.  In 1062 life began to change Nadir in his early 60’s and Jish in his early 50’s both died within a month of each other.  When this happened all hell broke loose.   Jish died and left his 1-year-old infant son as the only heir to the throne.  Shrikar, with an army half that of Ekak, grabbed control of the capital, Bihar and the heir young Jish II.  Shrikar then declared himself regent of the realm!

 

Ekak was completely at a loss, he had a huge army 20,000 strong but he was staring at the 60’ high walls of Bihar.  He decided because he had a very large infantry contingent and siege engineers to roll the dice and try to break Shrikar immediately before the outlying provinces would have a chance to revolt.  Ekak while being superior could not bust the walls and throw out the defenders.  After a good week of hard fighting Ekak was forced to withdraw and set up a passive siege.

 

Shrikar got a very clever idea.  He knew defeating Ekak would be very difficult, Ekak was a skilled tactician and so fighting a field battle with him was probably out of the question even though Ekak’s nose had been bloodied a bit.  Shrikar decided to declare his loyalty to the Lamdu church!  He immediately reclaimed the Lamdu shrine for “his” religion, in doing so the head of the Brahmin church was slain along with his personal bodyguard.  In the winter of 62’ and early 63’ word spread widely of the developments in the capital.  The Lamdu spurred on by the recognition of their religion by one of the claimants to the throne rose up.  While they did not have a military to speak of, they urged the Lamdu faithful to revolt and for many reasons they did. 

 

All the Lamdu provinces revolted.  The Lamdu’s main strength was their control of the many fortified villages in the Lamdu provinces.  Ekak was shocked at this latest development.  He immediately sprung into action and crushed the Maghada revolt in a brutal and lengthy conflict that lasted throughout 1063.    Ekak decided that rather than risk anymore problems he would organize the lands he controlled.  He ordered his second in command to travel to Prayaga and secure it as the new capital.  Ekak the Brahmin locations in the Bengal nation held with Ekak.  Bihar remained under a “passive” siege. 

 

Lamdu Bengals:  Bihar, Guar, Palas & Tamaralpiti

Life was never easy along the rich delta of the Ganges and there was some question whether there was any chance for the Lamdu Bengals to hold out against the Ekak led Brahmin Bengals.

 

Brahmin Hindu Church:  handful of facilities was constructed

Everything was going exactly as planned until the tragic Bengal dynastic failure.  While many of the priests of the church were out in the field spreading religion, and quite successfully I might add, Bihar was seizing the Lamdu Shrine.  This seizure supported by the Bengal army that was pretty large went off without a hitch.  The Lamdu were not a military order and they had no real military forces to oppose such an atrocity, well there was no real bloodshed so it only was an affront to the Lamdu faith.  The Brahmins tried to conduct some reconciliation with the Lamdu but that was pointless when at the same time kind words were being spoke the Holy Lamdu site was being grabbed.    

 

Kashmir:   MERGED with Punjab their long time ally

 

W. Chalukya:  

King Chalu sent a large fleet to reinforce/support the city of Raas Zaafuun.

 

Chola:  +1 CL  Matwada & Tanjore, Gangas (F)

Diplomacy in Gangas went very well as the Cholans convinced the locals that merging with their nation.  There was little reason for the Gangas not to join with the Cholans who had cultivated their province and were now working on a postal road to their lands.   In other news the fortresses in all the cities were enhanced so that the citizens of the Cholan Empire could be protected not only from sea raiders but also potentially hostile neighbors.   Emissaries were sent to the lands of Chalukya this cycle and came back satisfied with their negotiations with that nation.

                               

Sri Lanka:  Scebeli and Mogadishu (NE)

Lord Quest was sent to Africa.  The Ceylonese were ecstatic over the productivity of their existing colony in Ras Hafun and thought more colonies should be established along the coast.  While in theory this was a good idea apparently the King had forgotten what a great effort it took to convince uneducated “savages” to see the Ceylonese as the truly superior humans that they were.  As a result Lord Quest didn’t spend nearly the time necessary on the diplomatic efforts and that coupled with a complete lack of gifts made the whole adventure a waste of time. 

 

What wasn’t a waste of time was the transfer of citizens of the populous isle of Ceylon and to the city of Bandar.  The Lamanist had laid the groundwork for the city, making it a religious commune, effectively, last cycle and now the settlers from Ceylon turned it into a city.  There was quite a bustle as streets where being laid out and the port facility was being upgraded.  The Lamanist were not as adept as the Ceylonese in things like ocean going navigation and port facility layouts.  Commander race bemoaned the poor planning of the Lamanist when putting things together; “stupid mountain dwellers” was heard to come from his lips more than once.

 

Tripuri:  Kalinga (F)

Most all efforts were devoted to fighting the Raj of Uttar Pradesh.

 

Uttar Pradesh: 

All efforts were devoted to stopping the Tripuri.

 

 

S.E.Asia:

 

Burma:  Songkhla +1CL, Saignan (F)

The heir to the throne died and shortly after his eldest brother the King also passed.  The government did not crater though and Yezagyo took control of the busy nation.   Yezagyo’s younger brothers ascended to their rightful positions within the government.  Aside from the somewhat precarious position the deaths of the government leaders put the country in things were pretty quiet in the lands of Burma as they had been for many years.

 

Khmer:  Angkor Wat +1CL, Port City of Vinh in Diavet

Jayavarman VI order that great deal of resources be put toward making Vijaya friendly, this was very effective especially since the province that surrounded the city had already agreed to friendly relations.  The King, before dying in late 1063, managed to sire 2 more children one daughter and one son, he died a contented man.  Jayavarman VII took control of the government and his brother assumed the role as heir at the ripe age of 15.  In other news the Khemer province has become one of the more heavily fortified regions in the world, every village has a wall some travelers have noted.  Angkor Wat is quickly becoming the jewel of south east Asia, not only is it a sprawling metropolis but the citizens have nearly every luxury available the people of this time.

               

Vishnu of SE Asia: Champa Converted

While not expanding outside of the domains they already control the Vishnu made very large investments in the Javans, Khemer and Maylay economies.  Strong followers make the religion strong is the policy of the Vishnu.  Several Cathedrals were constructed in rich provinces.

 

 

Malay Confederation:  City of Singapore

Built the City and walled all cities.

 

Java:  Sula Wesi (EA), Mindinao (NE), Singhisari, Sirivjaya & Morhaven +1CL

The Javans put in a big effort diplomatically.  The terribly resistant Mindinao while enjoying the financial contributions of the Javans had no inclination to relinquish a fraction of their freedom.  In Sula Wesi they were much more inclined to embrace the Javans and their culture. The Jambi also decided they didn’t hate the Javans as much as they used to.  Utara was a completely different story Patali was killed by some angry locals, the province did not revolt though so it is likely that they just didn’t like the messenger very much..  

 

On the home front it was a very busy time.  The Javans continue to lure people to urban areas and improve the living conditions of those who live there.

 

 

Asia:  Great Northern War Continues

Early in 1060 elaborate orders are given to all the participants in the battle for Northern China.  Money is dispatched by the Buddhist to secure the services of many mercenary troops most prominent among them is Ju Jin who will play a big roll in the upcoming events as he and his mercenary band reap great rewards pillaging the Hsia lands.  Large amounts of troops were mustered by all nations involved in this conflict.  Estimates are upwards of 49,000 men heard the call to arms and joined their respective militaries.  The Nations of the south sent fleets north to patrol the Huang and reduce the movement of the Hsia but their efforts were unimportant.  The Sung Imperial Dynasty sent many men to defend the holy city of Kaifeng.  While these men did not see action this action allowed the Buddhist primates forces to travel north to aide the Liao in a titanic battle in the Steppe region ruled by the Hsuing Nu Tribes. 

 

The Early campaigned opened up with an assassination attempt on Ming, which was stopped well before it could blossom into a threat.  The Liao at this time were hastily constructing many City walls and field works through out the realm.  A large Mercenary force left out of the Holy City of Kaifeng and another large Buddhist army headed north approximately 10000 in number many short spearman and swordsman marched off to the North it was quite likely many would not return.    Out of Wuhai Ming sallied forth with a tremendously large contingent of cavalry.  They were had been infused with a very large contingent of men both young and old but the people of the steppe were plentiful and whenever there was a war to be fought they were ready to fight, especially when the Chinese were involved.  Of course the Hsia ignored the fact that they were truly becoming more and more like the Chinese they despised.

 

The first year of the campaign there was little happening except the movement of troops.  In year two and three the action began to heat up.  Ju Jin’s force traveled an arduous route across several low mountain groups before coming out in Huang were the first raid was conducted against Hsia holdings.  Ju Jin rolled out on to the plains of Huang with a vast host of close to 12,000 men.  The province is pillaged and he moves on, the booty for his men is decent and they are all happy.  His forces then cross the Great Wall and another mountain chain and dive into Ningsia.  Once again the province has a fortress this time the looting is pretty light but the force drives on.  This time over the mountains and Great Wall and into Kansu Ju's force did travel.  Kansu was actually defended by the Lob Nor Khan and the local garrison sadly they were no match for the skill or numbers brought against them but the Khan did his duty and harried the enemy a bit before withdrawing.  Kansu openly rebelled against the Hsia as soon as the garrison was gone and the locals celebrated.  Ju Jin’s forces moved on to Shensi where the defensive forces once again were no matches for a force the size of Ju’s.  The province was looted and Ju moved on to Shentung where the garrison was once again dispersed.  This time the province declared it’s loyalty to the Liao.  Ju Jin retired from his campaigning to Honan where he and his men rested and counted their money.

 

While the campaign in the south was tremendously successful the campaign in the North was and uncertainty.  The Liao forces waited in the coastal city of Tietsen, this was stategic because it gave hem the ability to react up along the road to the coming of the Horde….er Hsia.  The Buddhist waited as well.  News came late in 1060 that a horde had rolled across the Kin frontier!  Panic struck through the ranks, the Seljuks were paid off!  There was much unrest in camp, if the Seljuks were in the north then where were the Hsia.  The decision was made to move north to stop the invading Horde. 

 

The Horde entered Tumet and over ran that province then they began to cross into the lands of the Hsuing Nu.  Word came to the allied army as they entered the Hsuing Nu lands….the army was not actually a Horde it was the Hsia.  Initially the allies were relieved that the Seljuks had not betrayed them……then they realized the Hsia came with a much larger force than they expected.  The Allied armies decided to withdraw to Liao-Tung where the defenses were much better.

 

The Hsia rolled across the Hsuing Nu and into Shangtu where they proceeded to capture the region then assault and burn the city.  It was a bitter pill for the Allied army to swallow but it was much more important to prepare for a fight in a province they could defend than die a horrible death in an area that was indefensible.  In the early months of 1063 the vast Hsia host came flying the great banners of past victories over the Sung and the Liao.  It was an impressive display, that of men and horses that the Liao and the Buddhist primacy faced but they were prepared.  All the time that the Hsia had been destroying the Liao were preparing for the onslaught. 

 

The Hsia soon found out the reason why the Liao had chosen to fall back to their home turf.  The Liao had many field defenses in their home province and those would prove very valuable should the Liao and their ally the Buddhist have any hope of victory.  Ming was a great tactician and he had the help of many field agents to make it so he did not fall into any traps.  The first engagement of the Battle for Liao Tung happened near Lang-tui Shan, the terrain was a little rough and Khaidu and Mercenary Commander Jaing had decided this spot would be a good one to use against all the heavy cavalry of the Hsia.  The hunch was fairly right.  The Hsia came in droves the came and the came and they came all day long Ming threw his men at the allied army and they got repulsed time and time again as the defenders held their ground heroically.    When the day ended Ming had to withdraw and regroup.  The death toll was pretty heavy on both sides.

 

A month later Ming thought he had caught the allied armies off guard when he pinned the allied armies against the Hun-ho River.  The Liao forces primarily composed of heavy cavalry were very comparable to the Hsia in skill and covered for the Buddhist infantry withdrawing across the river.  The casualties were heavy on both sides though this time the allied forces were the ones withdrawing.  Though the battles had been inconclusive the allied forces were now in a precarious position they were running out of defensive strong holds and the Hsia now outnumbered the them by two to one. 

 

Jaing and Khaidu decided that one last defensive stand near the Liao capital.  Ming seeking to press his advantage to it’s fullest so he gambled that the Allies wouldn’t have time to prepare for one last defensive stand.  Ming was wrong about the speed at which the defenders could be prepared for another onslaught.   He rolled his army forth around the final bend in the Liao-ho before it heads to the sea and Ming and his still impressive army surged forth against the last defenses and defenders between the Hsia and the Liao capital of Mukden.   After a hastily put together strategy session the Hsia launched what they hoped to be the last offensive of the campaign.  The Hsia charged the largely infantry force.  The ground shook and the Hsia they did howl the tattered banners still flowing and the armor a little worse for the wear they were still a ferocious military contingent led by a brilliant general.  On this day though…….it was not enough.  Once again anchored by the Liao-ho on one flank and numerous fortifications throughout the line the Allies held, Ming was a stubborn man and he launched numerous attacks until his men finally had nothing left and broke.  

 

Ming’s forces withdrew quite hastily, the Liao had no ability to pursue because they were effectively spent.  The war was over for this cycle at least.  Both sides would take a very long time to recover from the slaughter that occurred in Liao Tung and it would long be a bitter memory for those Hsia that survived.  Ming returned home with his men in tow, bitter and dejected over his failure.

 

 

Sung Imperial Domains:

The Sung expanded a good deal in the south and in the North they rushed troops to defend the Buddhist Holy city from the ravages of the Hsia.  The Hsia never came.

 

Bandit Kingdoms of Hunan:

No one is real sure what these boys are doing.

 

Shanan – Zhou:  Chaing Ling +1CL

The Grand Prince died at the age of 63 leaving only two young children his son and his daughter to rule.  Zou-cho-ma was named heir by Wang Chi and all the lords accepted this.  Especially after Wang grabbed control of the army.  This could have been a very unsettling turn of events but the situation ended up playing out well.  Several other interesting things also happened in the realm.  Mei-Shan one of the courts “spiritual” leaders traveled to Tibet and after a great deal of discussions with the head of the Lamanist church he converted to the Lamanist faith.  Rumors began to circulate throughout the Zhou lands that this might be a precursor of things to come because Mei-Shan certainly would not have visited Tibet without the urging of the now deceased Grand Prince, murmur murmur murmur.  The last item to note is that the Zhou did live up to their agreement to leave the Chekaing alone while they went off to war and everyone was relieved.

 

Jaingnan:  Colonized Anhui

Little enhancement in the newest province of the realm is always a good thing.  On the war front the Jaingnan sent a large fleet with marines north to aid their Buddhist brothers.

 

Clan Iiachi:

The Tiger prepared to do what the Buddhist Primate asked them to do and that was defend the faith.  They sent the powerful commander Ngo along with a military contingent of both ships and troops.  They met up with the Jaingnan forces in Cheking and sailed north.  At home the forces were put on alert because of building tensions between the Nanchao and the Zhou.

 

Buddhist Primacy: 

Buddhist Missionaries tried traveling through the Hsia lands they however were arrested immediately and shipped off

to Chang An where they were imprisoned.

 

“See the Great Northern War”

Nanchao:   Tz’uk’an (EA), Laos (F)

 

In breaking news, the Liao diplomatic mission has dramatically packed up and gone home. Emperor Han was quoted as saying, "In times of stress, even great leaders can lose themselves to panic. Emperor Kuzhuk is currently feeling very anxious about the likely Hsi Hsia response to an unwise attempt by the Liao and the Buddhist Primacy to feign an alliance and then ambush the Hsi Hsia army while simultaneously attacking into Hsi Hsia lands. The Liao envoy was quite insistent about Nan-Chao sending military aid to fight against the Hsi Hsia, and after my lengthy and repeated reminders concerning Nan-Chao's policy of promoting peace, harmony, mutual trade and trust in the region, not war, the Liao said "our work here is done" and closed their diplomatic mission.  Nan-Chao will maintain its mission in Mukden for as long as Emperor Kuzhuk allows because I foresee a time when the Liao Government and its people will need the stability and humanitarian aid that Nan-Chao has to offer. The Liao will find that Nan-Chao is quite understanding of this unfortunate diplomatic incident, and will be ready to once again have normal diplomatic relations whenever the Liao wish to resume them.

 

When asked of the Shana-Zhou's declaration that they considered Nan-Chao a hostile state, Emperor Han's reply was "For over 15 years I have considered the Shana-Zhou regime to be both hostile and opportunistic.  Their declaration simply makes it official that they do not appreciate the presence of neighbours who promote peace and goodwill, and openly denounce and oppose the violent depravations they have forced onto their neighbours.  It is the height of irony that they demanded their peaceful neighbours, including Nan-Chao, send forces to attack the Hsi Hsia in order for them to also feel comfortable in sending their own forces North.  Obviously they consider me so inept that I could not figure out that the Shana-Zhou could quickly replace their losses and attack Nan-Chao or other neighbours before we could rebuild our own armies.  Well, they're wrong, and Nan-Chao dismisses their "offer" as nothing but a sham attempt to weaken our defenses and create an opportunity for a future attack.  They can only prove their sincerity via actions, so I will wait and see."

 

What if the Buddhist Church calls for a Holy War?  "Then the few faithful Buddhists of Nan-Chao who feel obligated to fight for a man who condones and facilitates the making of false alliances and underhanded ambushes despite the teachings of the great Buddha, in a country far away, against an enemy who has done nothing to Nan-Chao, will be allowed to do so.  It is their karma, they will do what they will do and I will not stop them, but I will make sure that they are not blind to the circumstances behind any such call to arms by the current leaders of the Buddhist clergy.  My studies tell me that violence, deception and betrayal are the way to torment in future incarnations, not enlightenment; obviously the head of the Buddhist church has other ideas."

 

The Nanchao continued to expand their army in large part due to mounting tensions with the Zhou.  The government continued to be wisely managed by Emperor Han and his very capable son Wu continued to march and drill the army in hopes of getting to test his prowess against the Zhou or anyone who would threaten the Nanchao dynasty.  On the diplomatic front things went well even though tragedy soon followed effective diplomatic efforts.  In the Tzukan lands Yu fell from a mountain trail many hundreds of feet to his death.  In Laos Mista Ones and Gu Ku fell victim to flood waters while crossing the Mekong. 

 

While there was no effort to make the ceremony notable, one of Han’s daughters was married off to Khun Cuang a Laotian Warlord.  Khun used this marriage to seal his power in Laos.  He swept through the province eliminating the opposition and once that was accomplished he declared his loyalty to the Nanchao throne.  

 

His Hsia:  WAR

 

Korea:    Tsainan (F)

There was great concern in the land of the Realm Of Emperor Kim, the Liao had drawn the ire of the Hsia and now he feared all Chinese Buddhist would pay.   Kim did not feel confident enough to send his armies off to war in the West when he had to defend his lands from Japanese intrusions as well as barbarians from the north. 

 

 

Japan: 

Slept

 

Shinto:  Amur Colonized, Sakhalin Colonized               

The Church decided the best way to spread the religion was to colonize the vacant lands of the north.  The continued this policy to great effect.  A large sum of money was also spent on promoting the health and well being of the Emperor of all of Japan.

 

Liao:  WAR

By the end of the cycle nearly every leader in the Liao command structure had died including Khaidu savior of the Liao people and heir to the throne, he apparently had been wounded in the final climatic battle and took ill from it.  It was tragic but surprisingly did not cause the nation to collapse. 

 

Seljuks: 

The Seljuk clans rested and regrouped in Kerait.  Toghrid decided that he would take advantage of the local tent city/market to buy some finely crafted Chinese equipment so that his troops might be better prepared to deal with the warring states in China as well as the powerful Steppe hordes of the East.  Toghrid Bey leader of the Seljuk made a bold decision, he decided he would try to grasp the loyalty of the Mongols and if he had time the Tatars.  Once parts of his army were reequipped and trained Toghrid headed north with his Heir Kamason and the Prince Sulieman. 

 

The passage to the North was a rough one the crossing of two mountain chains and the heavily forested region of Henyitin was tough on the all cavalry contingent of nearly 60,000 horse.  The Khan of the Seljuk began the last part of the trip moving up the Orkhon River and crossing the Yeröö and then passing between Delgerkhaan to the East and Buteeliyn nuruu to the West on the way to Sǜkhbaatar and Khiagt, where two very large Mongol camps had been erected.  Kamason died in the Yeröö River crossing when his horse collapsed on top of him and drown him.  According to sources on the Steppe many of the Northern Tribes were massing, Jurchen, Manchu, Khitai, Tartar, Mongol and Ulanni were all bursting at the seams.  The Mongols and the Tartars where massing as the cycle progressed and Toghrid realized it was now or never, he could become one of the largest clan leaders since the rise of the Huns should he be successful in properly impressing the Mongol host.   Request for parleys were issued and the Mongols accepted.  Toghrid with some riders set up a maikhan between the two armies and they waited for the arrival of the Mongol commander and his aides.  Ögötai arrived with his men in tow they settle warily down in front of the maikhan and though invited had no desire to enter. Fire burned outside the tent and rugs were laid out and quimiss was served but not consumed by Toghrid.

Toghrid was nervous the Mongol army looked very numerous, from information gathered by scouts it was estimated to actually be larger than his forces; he suddenly grew concerned that he should have brought his entire army.   Diplomacy with the Mongols lasted into the night and Toghrid did not make a good impression, there was some difficulty with the languages and the Seljuks religious persuasion also became a concern.    After a well-prepared meal the Mongols mounted up and returned to their camps, there would be no peace with the Mongols.  Toghrid returned to his own camp and told his officers to prepare for war.

 

May 5th 1063:  The great clash of arms between the Mongol and the Seljuk tribes did occur and the steppe shook as the Mongols led by Ögötai and his captains rolled out on to the field of battle.  The Orhkon River to the west would serve as a secure flank for both parties.  The Mongol contingent, which was almost exclusively horse archers, numbered nearly 65,000 men.  The Seljuks with the tactically superior commander Toghrid and 60,000 men deployed south of the Mongols.  Both armies lined up shoulder to shoulder and charged each other.  It was to be a test of wills on this day and there would be very few prisoners taken.  The armies clashed and a fierce affair ensued.  Toghrid led his men well and his royal guard contingents wrecked havoc on the lightly armored Mongols.  The problem was that the Mongols were gaining the upper hand against their equals and that was keeping the battle very tough and tight.  Then something interesting happened.  Toghrid got hit from behind by Ögötai and knocked from his horse.  Now Toghrid was certainly the more skilled of the two men in combat but Ögötai was no slacker and with the advantage of being mounted the table was level.  In the nomadic culture battles such as this paint the canvas of destiny for tribes and this was no different.  The battle raging around these two gentlemen (I use the term loosely) seemed suddenly to go in slow motion.

Ögötai charged Toghrid and nicked him with the saber as he rode past, Toghrid slashed Ögötai’s pony but the hearty mount did not fall.  Again Ögötai charged and this time he swung wildly missing completely.  Toghrid downed Ögötai’s pony this time on sent Ögötai sprawling to the ground and injuring his shoulder.  Toghrid moved in quickly trying to seize the opportunity but it was for naught as Ögötai defended himself effectively.  The men sparred for a brief period of time then Toghrid ran his scimitar down on to Ögötai’s injured shoulder cleaving off a chunk of meat that any wild animal would be happy to feast on.  Sadly for Toghrid just when he saw part of Ögötai’s shoulder peel off his body he felt a sharp pain in his abdomen….lower ribcage and then…..well he felt nothing because he was dead.  Toghrid’s body crumpled in a heap at the feet of Ögötai, Toghrid was very dead. 

The Seljuk’s morale broke and they took heavy losses in their retreat, the new king Sulieman is wounded during the escape across the mountains but he did successfully manage to rally some of remaining army though some defected to the Mongols.  The life of the Seljuks turned even bitterer when Suleiman hears while on his way to Turfan that the Scythian Khan revolted when the news arrived of Toghrid’s death and he took all the slaves with him.  By the time Sulieman arrived in Turfan there were only about have the members of the tribe remaining.  The people tell this tale.

 

The people tell of how the loyal Ghuzz Lord died of the fever on the way to Turfan after they Chinese had arrived with money.   When news came of Toghrid’s demise and the destruction of the army the Scythian Lord promoted Orxan as King.  Everyone accepted this because no word had come of the steppe to tell us that you lived though some of us held out hope.  Then with Orxan widely accepted as Khan the Scythian Lord, now regent, ordered all men and materials to return to the West.  He took the gold, the slaves and the army with him.  We stayed behind because it was our intent to give up wandering and settle with the Kucha.

 

Sulieman was crushed.  The once great Seljuk horde had vaporized in a year into almost nothing.  Now there were large hordes on the steppe who would very likely just finish off what remained of the once great host.

 

MONGOLS & TARTAR CLANS BOTH GO HORDE!!!!

The Scythians go Horde as well.

 

PACIFIC RIM

 

Australia: 

The lands prospered under the economic development programs of the wise king.  Agro reserves were given to the New Zealanders and the Shark cult.  All remains quiet in the distant lands on the edge of the world.

 

New Zealand:  Port City of Moeraki in Otago

The Old High Chief Akuhata took his board out for on last ride on the waves at age 67.    The peoples of the islands mourned the loss of their great chief.  Akuhata, the one who found the land of the endless coastline, Australia, the man who solved the strife with the Southern Islanders and the chief responsible for delivering many lands across the seas into the dominions of the New Zealand sea peoples.

 

The normally passive Tekutea tribesmen decided they despised Ambassador Tao and they chased him off the island.  No one was hurt fortunately.  Though it was surprisingly difficult for someone as skilled as Kai the route from Fiji to Vanatu was discovered.

 

Shark God Cult: 

The Shark Cult continued to grow and prosper the only bump they hit was in New Zealand where the not altogether savvy local prince failed in his attempt to construct the first official religious facility in his country.  Aside from that everything is going very well.  The Great Shaman did die at the end of the cycle at the age of 88 or something like that but he was replaced by his competent assistant.