Lords of the Earth 27

The Dark ages

Turn 17

THE HISTORY
581-585 AD

WESTERN EUROPE

****NEWS****

Starting turn 20, turns will be $5

Mercenaries:

10i, 17c, 5s, 10w, 5t

Danes- 3w, 1i
Franks-2w, 8c, Olaf
Britannia- 4w, 7i, 7c, 5s, 5t

Britannia Aflame (Yet Again)

581AD: The dogs of war were once again let loose in the British Isles. King Harald, of Merovingia, sent his modest navy into the British Channel to meet up with his Danish allies. They had nearly a hundred warships packed with stout warriors. In early April they took up the watch along the British coast, they sought the Britannian navy.

On a early mid April morning a merovingian lookout gave warning as he saw enemy vessels moving through the morning fog. "Thats more than a naval patrol, where can all those transports be going protected as they are by the Britannian navy" thought King Harald to himself. "Signal the attack" he ordered his men.

On the DRAGONFANG, the Danish admiral was sizing up the Britannians as well "hard to guage their numbers in this damn fog...could they outnumber us? No...to the attack lads!"

The germanic warriors of the Catholics readied themselves as the catapults begin to fire and the ships closed fast. Dux Octavis watched this from the Britannian flagship ARTORIUS. "They come straight in, we have an opportunity here" he said to his aides "Singal the wing commanders to circle out wide and pinch in on their flanks. Lets not let them escape" SPLOOSH, even as the orders were given the first catapult shots began to land amongst the Britannians, they   replied in kind.

The Catholic navy made its way through the fog and met the enemy, ships began to ram and board one another. Harald was excited, he could see their numbers, they were of about equal size and strength. The battle was a bloody stalemate as ships were boarded and fighting began. It wasnt long before the double flanking forces appeared out of the myst and struck the Catholics from the rear. Harald was dumb struck...where did these new Britannian forces come from?

On the Dragonfang, the Danes were hard pressed, they were losing a boarding action when a second Britannian vessels appeared and came along side. Fresh Britannians flooded over the side and onto the blood soaked deck. The Admirals Huscarls fought desperately but were falling fast. The new attackers waded into the Danish ranks and the defenders died. The Admiral was speared through the belly and left to die. The Dragon fang was fired and the Britannians left the dying Danes behind as they cut loose and set out to find new targets.

King Harald had watched the Danish flag ships death, even now the flames of its funeral Pyre were blazing. A thunderous crash threw him from his feet. His vessel had been Rammed. The attacking Britannian vessel was pushing off..as it did so the King's ship began to take on water fast. It was already lower in the water and listing to port. The King quickly threw off his armor and ordered his men to do the same. In the water the king went. He was using a floating mast as a raft, all he could do was watch as his countrymen and allies were being destroyed in this lopsided afair. He saw Olaf the Dane, his mercenary captain, die as his ship was boarded. He saw his beloved Merovingians perish. He saw all to few Britannians dying. In the end the Catholic navy was utterly smashed,  no one escaped. The Britannians lost all to few by comparrison. Harald was fished out of the sea and taken prisoner.

The Britannians then sailed west around the Island and then north, as fall came on they landed large numbers of marines on Man, the small island put up a spirited defense but were still easily overan. The Britannians then took the Holy City of Iona. Then something strange happened. Dux Octavis went to his knees and kissed the ring of the Celtic Churches Patriarch. The Britannians had converted to the Celtic cause before sailing and now swore to be the defenders of the Church (see CELTIC CHURCH and BRITANNIA entries)

While the Britannians were conquering Man, Britannian lookouts had spotted a large transport fleet sail from UltraJectum, in Holland. What was this? The forces of REGET, long rumored to have been in the northern Ice areas had been hiding in Holland. With the Britannian navy in the western seas the regetians had free passage and took advantage of it. They arrived off the coast of Lothian and began landing in force. The land was quickly liberated. The forces of Reget had made strong Oaths that they would take the body of their former King back home and bury him in Northumbria on the sight of the former Cathedral, or die trying.

582AD: In the west the Britannians took to their ships after wintering in Iona. They sailed south and came to the shores of Laigin. Prince Liggit watched the shore of Eire 'Begin landing' he oredered 'It is time to finish Powys'. With that command thousands of Britannians begin to wade ashore.

King Llewelyn gathered his forces and Marched to the shore. As he was a subpar commander he arrived late and the Britannians were already forming up. He ordered a reckless charge onto the beach. The Britannians outnumbered the Powsyians by over two to one and counter charged. Under the mid summer sun the Irish sands turned red. The Powsyians were engulfed by the more numerous Britannians and the battle became a hurricane as the melee reached a pinnacle.  King Llewelyn was hacked down as his honorguard was surrounded and butchered. It wasnt long before the rest of his countrymen joined him in the otherworld.

Flush from victory, the Britannians put Sidhe castle under siege. The Britannian navy blockaded the port fortress. As winter came on the fortress surrendered.

While the Britannians were invading Ireland the Regetians were liberating their homeland of Northumbria. On the ruins of Caer-Ebrauc's cathedral the Regetians laid the bones of their former King to rest.

The Regetian navy sailed south to the Merovingian port of Stormgaard. They loaded up with Merovingian cavalry and sailed for Ipswhich. The city had seen better times. It had recently been sacked. The Merovingians took up residence and waited as the Regetian navy put back to see promising to bring more Merovingians next year.

Prince Owen of Britannia, after plundering the Catholic churches holy sites marched east into Kent and took up a defensive posture. He ignored the Regetian advance and the Merovingian landing.

583AD:   In Ireland Prince Liggit finished the conquest of Ireland, with that Powys as a nation passes into history.

In Britain the Regetians simply remained vigilant and celebrated alot, it has often been said that british warbands are mead fed hosts afterall.

In Kent the Britannians waited and prepared their defensess.

The Regetian navy spent most the year bringing more Merovignians into Ipswhich, the navy then set sail for Holland.

584AD:  In Ipswhich Prince Pepin led his merovingians into battle. Anglia was over run.  Pepin marshalled his forces and lead his 15,000 mounted warriors into Kent. In July the two sides met.

Prince Owen was in the midst of planning for the coming battle when he was set upon in his tent. Quick as a snake strike he was subdued and then succesfully snuck out of the Britannian camp. The Baron of Powys was left to command alone.

As the forces of each side moved into formation for battle, Briannian scouts rode in and reported they had captured a Catholic   priest attempting to incite rebellion in Kent. "Tie him up, Battle is upon us, I have no time to deal with them now" ordred the Baron.

In the Merovingian camp Prince Pepin was consulting with Bishop Wigand, the Bishop had on armor and would join the battle "I wish our navies had managed to survive, the Danes had promised to bring troops over as well..but...even so we still have a very slight edge in number of troops" then Pepin smiled "and of course Prince Owen is a prisoner now, let us oder the attack and see if this Baron of Powys proves capable" with that the Merovingian army launched its assault.

The Merovingians were germans and therfore traditionally not used to cavalry,  like their german cousins they had always prefered to fight on foot with a battle axe, however the Merovingians had come far in learning the ways of mounted warfare. They gave a respectful showing of themselves as they smashed into the Britannian ranks. The Britannians were excellent horseman and so despite being out numbered in heavy cavalry were able to hold their own as the morning wore on.  The battle was a hard fought affair. neither side could gain the advantage and so men fell where they were.

In mid afternoon Pepin was unhorsed and knocked unconscious, his body was dragged into the rear by the Britannians. As the Merovignians saw this they lost heart. They  began to fall back and soon the fighting ended. Bishop Wigard led the Merovingians in an orderly retreat back into Anglia. The Britannians were to tired to pursue, they had won the foeld but it had been a close affair. 7,000 Britannia and 9,000 Merovingian dead littered the field.

After seeing to his mens needs and resting himself, the Baron went to interigate the Catholic Priest. It shortly became clear this was no lowly priest, in fact this was the Holy Father himself, Pope Peligious! The Baron could only shake his head and wonder that the Pope  would come into enemy land himself, the risks were incredible. Well this prisoner must be sent back to the Capital, and so he was.

Hmmm with so many prisoners (especially the merovongian King and heir) on both sides, one must wonder what the future will hold.

THE KINGDOM OF REGET- Celtic Christian- Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

King Rhun

Diplomacy: None

LIberate thier homeland, Huzzah!!!

(See: Britannia aflame)

THE KINGDOM OF POWYS-Celtic Christian-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

King Llewelyn

Diplomacy:

::::::::Taps:::::::::

THE KINGDOM OF BRITANNIA (was Dumnonia)-Celtic Christian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

King Liggit

Diplomacy: none

King Tristan issues a decree:

"In the year 541, our first visionary, Pope Revonius the wise, declared
independence from the Roman Catholic Church. After 10 years of fighting, it
was deemed that our time to free the people of the chains of Roman Catholic
Oppression was not at hand.

Now, after 40 years of solitude, worshipping and praying for guidance, it is
time! What began as a military movement to overthrow the chains of
oppression now becomes a saga to bring about  Britannia’s desire
for Celtic Catholicism.

In the year of our lord 581, it is declared by the King and the Citizens of Britannia
that the religion of Roman Catholicism is no longer welcomed. We the people of
Britannia seek to throw off the yoke of the false beliefs and seek wisdom in
the Celtic Church.

To further demonstrate that the Roman Catholics are not welcomed in Britannia,
the people remember the failed attempt to excommunicate us by the Papal
Bull in 561 AD. The people demanded answers. What allowed us
to resist this unholy act by the Roman Catholics? Was it rumors of the
recent schism in the church, perhaps it was the fact that the church in this
part of Europe had become isolated from Rome, or perhaps it was just that
Tristan was a charismatic leader who the people and nobility loved, whatever
the reason the Popes excommunication failed. This only served to lessen the
nations opinion and support for the Roman Catholic Church.

Today begins the journey into the spiritual hands of our Lord. Through the
wisdom of Celtic teaching, and the mighty sword of Britannia."

King Tristan died in the summer of 583AD. His son Liggit was proclaimed King even though he was away fighting.

Of interest was the presence of Arian Christian (Now callng themselves the Christian Church of God) missionaries in the lands of Domnonia, Salisbury, and Powys.

(See: Britannia aflame)

THE CELTIC CHURCH-Celtic Christian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Patriarch Aeden II

Diplomacy:  Cherbourg (ch) Scone (mn) Albion (mn) Lothian (ch) Northumbria (ch) Anglia (ch) Powys (ch) Gwynned (ch) Dyffed (ch) London (ch) Kent (ch) Salisbury (ch) Glevum (ch)

After the bitter defeats of Reget, the Danes and Norway by Britannia and her Persian Allies, Aedan and the bishops of the church were greatly shaken. Accompanied by his confessor, Father Bowie he set off for St. Patrick's Isle. There off the shore of Purt ny Hinshey. There he passed the days in prayer and supplication until he apprehended the Lord's will for the Holy Church.

Upon his return, he assembled all of the clergy of Iona, Man and those that had fled the destruction of the church in Britannia and spoke to them thus:

"In Sinai, the Lord our God spake unto Moses and unto the people of Israel and made them a Covenant. If the people would cleave to the Almighty and keep his commandments, He would make them fruitful, and multiply them, and protect them. But if the people would not hearken unto him and if they would not do all these commandments, then He would turn from them and they would suffer His wrath. He said unto Israel; "...I will break the pride of your power, and I will make your heaven as iron and your earth as brass."

As it was with the children of Israel, so it is with us. Just as the Israelites constructed the Golden Calf and were denied the promised land, just as the Temple was destroyed and the people taken into captivity when they failed to keep His commandments, so it is with us. What commandment have the Celts not held? The false idol and sin of Pride was our transgression. And the Lord's vengence was swift. Powys driven to her hinterlands in Eire, Reget cast to the wind, the once might fleets of the Church beneath the waves, and this, most importantly, our flocks in Britannia bereft of their shepards.

Just as Hezekiah humbled himself in his pride and Jerusalem with him and was spared the wrath of the Lord, we must humble ourselves for the pride of our hearts and renounce the worldly ways of nations. No more must we seek to take a seat among the mighty, but instead to hold the commandments of our Lord for the good of the souls of our flock, for our flock suffers mightily under the millstone of our pride. Now is the time to put away our swords and return to fishing.

Go forth and proclaim the Word to all that will hear. Spare not a moment, for many have we squandered in the service of our Pride. Our penance must be to recapture them all and multiply them. Go forth and let no ear in all the isles, in Armorica, in Gaul be deaf to the Good News.

THE KINGDOM OF NORWAY-European Pagan-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

King Ole

Diplomacy: shetlands (nt) Hebrides (nt) Gotland (nt)

King Nors died in early  581, his brother Ole became King.

In Uppsala the Teutons finished building the city of Frihet and then transfered it to the Norse. After thanking the Teutons, and after the Teutons had departed, the Norse discovered the city had been built with slave labor. The Norse are vehemetly opposed to slavery and so as atonement let the city have its independance "we hope you join us willingly and we will shortly send diplomats and ambassadors to you" Prince Bjorn promises them.
 

THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK-Roman Catholic-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

King Walric

Diplomacy: none

See: Britannia aflame

The defeat at sea bothered Walric, but then reports that the pox had come into Denmark set him further into depression. The pox ravaged his people and nearly a 1/3 of them perished in Denmark and Odinsmunda before the plague had run its coarse.

THE KNIGHTS OF THE BLACK ROSE (saxony) -Roman Catholic, Tech Lvl 4

King Athelstan

Diplomacy: Ulaan Baatar (ca) Romagna (ch) -Migration then saxon tribes resettling in Bavaria, Austra, and Istrian.

In the midst of the Long Winter, which would called January, Anno Domini EightHundred Sixty-One on the Catholic calender, Athelstan, King of Saxons dreamed a dream unlike any he had dreamed before. In the heart of the Black Forest there was a glade, which contained three clans of foxes; red foxes, black foxes and brown foxes. Being a dream spirit Athelstan could "hear" the discussion between the foxes.

The leader of the black foxes spoke first, "You foxes must leave. The Great Wood is no longer your home. You have spoken against the rule of the Black Fox Clan, therefore you must leave or be slain."

The leader of the brown foxes spoke next, "Why? You do not need all of the Great Wood. The number of foxes has not changed. The food is still plentiful. We can just remain here on the sunset side of the River. Surely, it is but a small part of the Great Wood."

The leader of the black foxes spoke again, "You cannot. We have promised this land to our allies the Black Boars. It is to become theirs and you cannot stay."

The leader of the red foxes then spoke, "Why? This is the Fox part of the Wood. The Boars have plenty of room. Why do they need ours?" "Because they wish to drink from the Deep Lake," said the black fox leader,"which is in our part of the Wood. For that, they will help us when the Bears come next season."

Athelstan watched as they argued into the night. The three leaders bickered,and yelled, and snarled, until the black fox leader shouted, "Enough! You have broken from the tribe. You must either leave or be slain." "Or fight, you mean," said the red fox leader with a growl. "If you fight," replied Black Fox, "you WILL be slain." "Perhaps," stated Red Fox, "but we will die on our land and so will many of you. Then you will need your precious Boar allies to fight against the Bear."

Brown Fox turned to his people and whispered, "Destroying a Clan to win a fight is no victory; Losing a fight to save a Clan is no defeat. We shall leave them to their fight." Athelstan watched as Brown Fox led his people from the Great Wood. The brown foxes journeyed many days until they came upon another Wood, as great as the one they left. When they entered the wood, they were greated by a White Stag who said, "Brown Fox, you are a wise leader. You have led the Lost Ones back to the True Wood, where your Clan will flourish." "What of the other two Clans?" asked Brown Fox. "Look and you shall see," said the White Stag.

Athelstan saw what Brown Fox saw, a field littered with the dead and dying of both fox Clans. The Black Fox himself was dead as were all of the Red Fox Clan,showing the truth of Black Fox's words. But Athelstan saw that the words of Red Fox had also been true. Too many of the Black Fox Clan were dead as well, they would not survive the coming of the Bears, even with the aid of the Boars.

When Athelstan awoke, he remembered the dream, a sign of true prophecy, and knew what he must do. He gathered together his most trusted men and told them to go to the all the Saxon Tribes who swore fealty to him, and tell them to gather their belongings and meet at the Council Rock in fourteen days. He then turned to his most faithful of lieutenants, Cuthwere, and asked him to go the Tribe in Holstien and tell them that the Saxons were leaving Saxony. It was no longer their home.

Athelstan held council with the Tribes of Saxony and told them of his dream. The Elders agreed that it was true prophecy. "We shall be like the Brown Fox Clan, we shall leave this land to go to our true home." When one warrior asked how would they know when they reached their true home? Athelstan just smiled and said, "We will know. We will know."

---

For sixty days and sixty nights they traveled. Many of the Tribes of Saxony grew weary, in both body and soul, from the trek. Even Bedvar, Athelstan's own son, began to lose faith. Athelstan knew it had to be close, he could feel it,but he needed a sign. Like the sagas sung by the skalds, Athelstan's innermost wish was granted. He was given a sign. Amongst a copse of stones, he saw a single rose bush of such beauty, he was unable to move. How long he stood there, Athelstan did not know,but he was -awakened- when the bush burst into flame. He gazed at the flame as the sweet red, roses turned black but were not consumed. He tried to run and get water to save them, but found he could not. Then he heard the voice, a deepvoice, the Voice of God. "Athelstan, King of the Saxons, you have done well. You have led your people to their promised land. It is but two days towards the rising sun, and all the lands thirty days and thirty nights from there. However,your journey is not complete. Your people must make another journey, a journey of faith. They must come back to me, my lost children. They must come back to the one, true God. You shall be my voice, Athelstan. You must be their guide. I shall send you a messenger to aid you in your task." Athelstan found that while he could not move his feet, he could speak, "Yes,Lord, I shall obey. Thank you."

"I have one more task for you, Athelstan," spoke the burning bush,"once you have settled your people. You and your warriors will travel to the realm of Tekumin, Hordemaster of the Golden Horde, in two years time. You will speak to Tekumin, and tell him what you have seen. He will be awaiting your arrival. You will tell him that you and your people are to become the flaming sword of God. You will defend the faithful and crush the unrighteous."

"Yes Lord, I hear and shall obey."

"Go then, and take this plant to be a reminder for now and for what is to come."

The flames vansished as quickly as they appeared, leaving only the color of the flowers to show that anything had happened. Athelstan did as he was commanded by the voice. He dug up the rose bush and went back to his people. They could see that he had changed. How they did not know, but they knew that something had happened to Athelstan in those woods. As promised, they found fertile fields but two days from where they were. Quickly, the Saxons settled down in lands as vast as they had left.

For the next two years, Athelstan preached to his people about the glory of God. He was joined early, by Roman Catholic missionary named Frego, just as the Lord had promised. Many converted to the one, true faith. A few retained their old ways, but Athelstan was sure that they would come around. He was still Saxon and stubborn was a trait he understood well.

True to his word, Athelstan gathered his warriors at the appointed time and traveled to the city of Ulaan Baatar, capital of the Tekumin Khanate, and home of Khan Tekumin. He told the Khan of his conversation with God. The Great Khan just smiled and nodded. The Khan told him that God had spoken to him as well, and that he had begun building a fortress monastery to house the Warrior's of God. Frego, corrected the Khan, albiet politely, that the Church refers to them as Knights.

Tekumin thought that just calling them Knights seemed somewhat ordinary for holy warriors. Cuthwere suggested Knights of the Black Rose, in honor of the sacred vision that Athelstan had. All agreed that it was a good name. Quickly, it was known that the Black Rose Knights had been formed and brave men from throughout the lands came to serve God and defend their homes. As in all things, as quickly as the name spread, the name changed. Before the year was out, men were wanting to become Black Knights. Athelstan took it in good humor, whichwas a great change from the eternally serious King of five years prior, and gently corrected them on the full title of the Order. However, it was too late, only in Court circles were they called Knights of the Black Rose, to the common man they were the Black Knights.

See The Temukin Khanate

THE KINGDOM OF THE LOMBARDS-Roman Catholic-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

King Alboin

Diplomacy: none

Things were quiet for Alboin. He ordered the royal builders to Madiera and the city was ordered rebuilt after it was previously sacked.

In 581 the Duke of Leon died, the Dukes son sent a message to Alboin that his was unsure of the relationship his lands hold with the Lombard crown, as a result the alliance would be downgraded to a military commitment only.

THE KINGDOM OF ARMORICA-Celtic Christian-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

King Basil

Diplomacy:

No turn received.

THE KINGDOM OF THE MEROVINGIANS-Roman Catholic-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

King Harald

Diplomacy: none

The Merovingians focused their efforts on the war in Britain.

See: Britannia Aflame

With King Harald and Prince Pepin captured, Queen Freia will have to take a more active role.

THE WESTERN ROMAN EMPIRE-Roman Catholic-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Emperor Theodosius, Restitutor Orbis, Redditor Lucis Aeternae, Defender of the true faith.

Diplomacy: none

The Empire was at peace, the seas were patrolled, the harvest brought in, and life continued.

Several lords and Prince Cletus passed away from natural causes.

THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH-Roman Catholic-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Pope Peligious, Patriarch of the true faith.

Diplomacy: Ulania (ab) Ulaan Baatar (ab)

The Church heirarchy is in shambles with the pope being taken captive, and then the deaths of two senior church members.

See: Britannia Aflame

THE TEMUKIN KHANATE -Roman Catholic-Nomadic, Tech Lvl 3

Khan Kublai

Diplomacy: none

Temuki went about the day to day affairs of state. He also invited the Saxon knights to create their order in Ulaan Baatar. Word was sent to Duke tabir to return home with his army.

Duke Tabir was just entering Slovenia when word reached him in late 584 AD  of Khan Temuki's death. Tabir vowed he would be Khan, Bishop Turpin and Duke Gerbil were quietly killed in their sleep. Unchallenged now he prepared to enter Ulania and receive his kingdom.

In Ulania Kublai, who now was Khan, was having his own troubles Apulia, Savoy, and Spoleto revolted and declared their independence from the Khanate. Then he received word that Tabir was in rebellion. A day of prayer was ordered over the winter of 584. Athelstan of the Black knights met with the new Khan and promised his warriors would side with the Khans.

In the spring Tabir led his host into Ulania. He had 189,000 mounted warriors. Opposing him was the Khans mostly Slavic, Polish forces with their Saxon Black Knight allies, they numbered 112,000 strong but were primarily infantry. There were also 9 tribal groups that had not been settled in the area. Kublai order the tribal groups to ring their wagons and the Infantry would fight from this center.

Tabir had no desire to slaughter the tribes, but if they need die for him to be Khan...well so be it. He ordered the attack. The ground shook as the massed cavalry charged home. The cavalry charged up to the wagon wall and threw ropes with hooks, pulling several over. The defenders made the cavalry pay when they came to close by swinging axes from the height of the wagon tops. The cavalry of the rebels rained arrows down on the defenders in response. Many perished on both sides as the morning went by.

The defenders began to set traps by letting the barricade be pulled down, and then when cavalry sought to exploit the opening the defenders would let a fair sized group in and then trap them by closing the breach, in this way several large groups of rebels met their end.

The defenders were still getting the worst of it, many of the tribal groups were decimated, and the infantry of the loyalist were paying heavily. They were giving a good account of themselves though.

The rebels most likely would have prevailed, but then fate smiled on Kublai. Into a breach rode Tabir and his honorguard. Athelstan and the Knights of the Rose counter charged, a viscous melee erupted and in the closed space of the breach the infantry of the Saxons reaped a deadly harvest with their large battle-axes. The mounts of the rebels were slain from under them. The rebel Khan Tabir quickly recovered and got to his feet just in time to see Grandmaster Athelstan step over Tabir's dead mount. Athelstan's axe swung in a viscous arc and split Tabir's shield, shattering his arm underneath in the process. The rebel Khan swung his sword in response, trying to buy space and time. Athelstan caught the blade with the axe shaft and pushed it hard away and bought his axe downward. Tabir stumbled as he retreated and fell. Athelstans axe came down and ruptured the rebel Khan's side like a ripe melon. Blood gushed  from the wound and Tabir's eyes began to glaze over. Athelstan stepped over the fallen rebel and a quick blow severed Tabir's head.

With their rebel Khan dead many of the rebels surrendered, others fought on, and some switched sides and attacked the rebels. It was still a hard fought affair, but with their Khan dead most of the rebels surrendered as the sun began to go down. Some fled refusing to give in.

The plains of Ulania are littered with dead. 6 of the 9 tribes were annihilated, 107,000 loyalist and 85,000 rebel corpses cover the field. The rebellion is broken however. Kublai is the sole Khan.

THE KHANATE OF THE AVARS-Arian Christian-Nomadic, Tech Lvl 3

Kublai Khan

Diplomacy: none

The Avars moved to the east and were intent on bringing Provence back into the fold. The militia in provence fled before the powerful Avar army and the region promised to send tribute. No bloodshed was needed.

EASTERN EUROPE

Mercenaries:
10i, 10c, 10lc, 5w, 5t

THE EASTERN ROMAN EMPIRE-Eastern Orthodox-Civilized, Tech Lvl 5

Ioannes, Vasilevs, Avghoustos, kai Avtrokrator Romaion

Diplomacy:  Kluj (t)

Imperial building projects continued as the port city of Sinope was built in Paphlagonia.

The emperors daughter Helena was sent south to marry into the Harar dynasty. As part of the deal the Harar were convinced to come north. They landed in thrace then were given permission by the Emperor to settle north of the Danube.

The Emperor himself grew ill and passed away in late 584AD.
 

THE EASTERN ORTHODOX CHURCH-Eastern Orthodox-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Patriarch Mathias

Diplomacy: None

no turn received

THE ORDER OF ST GEORGIOS-Eastern Orthodox-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Grand Master Taki

Diplomacy: Dardinia (ab) Achaea (ab)

The order focused its efforts in bringing the gospel to the heathens in Walachia. Large numbers of converts were won for christ in those lands.

The Orders headquarters became a center of learning and the arts in these years as culture flourished.

KRISTOS PANTOCRATOR-Eastern Orthodox-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Grand Master Akhilleous

Diplomacy: Hellespontus (ca) Paphlagonia (mn)

The order continued to build its holy sites in the east. They watched the eastern lands with interest, ever vigilant to head the call of christendom should the need arise.
 

THE KINGDOM OF GREATER ARMENIA-Eastern Orthodox-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

King Flavius, the usurper

Diplomacy: none

King Basil died in 581, General Flavius killed the teenage heir, Nicaphorus, then marched on the capital and put to death the rest of the royal family. He thus established his own dynasty. The rest of the realm accepted this show of strength and pledged their loyalty.

THE KINGDOM OF THE TEUTONS-Roman Catholic-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

King Frothgar

Diplomacy: none

"Yes, this is a good thing, something long waited for. Gunther and I will go through the kingdom's finances and try to find some spare monies to help the order become a reality. But none of you can go - at least not at this time. You all have tasks that need doing and they are important for the good of the realm. Maybe after this transition period we can reconsider. Be assured that we will support the new order to the fullest extent possible."

These tasks the king needed finished included building the city of Frihet in Uppsala and then of course there was the tradiytonal slave raid deep into the steppe lands to the east. This time it was Ob that enslaved. Several of the lands near by also suffered slave raiding, Prince Farahulf then returned home with the slaves.

THE KINGDOM OF THE GOTHS-Arian Christian-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

King Dameric 

Diplomacy: Chernigov (f) Bolgar (t)

King Dameric ordred the city of New Seville built in Muscovey, he then travelled south and married a royal daughter from the bolgar dynasty. He returned to his new capital with his new Queen. Missionaries converted many in Bolgar.

THE HOLY CALIPHATE OF ALFOLD (harar)-Sunni Islam-Nomadic, Tech Lvl 3

Caliph Ali Al Mohammed

Diplomacy: none

Intense diplomatic efforts dominated the winter of 580AD. Eventually the powers in and around the Red Sea realized any war was likely to lead to a much wider war beyond the local region. So a deal was struct and the Egyptians agreed to transport the people of Harar north. The Emir of the Harar married Helena, daughter of the Eastern Roman Emperor, this sealed a deal and the Harari were transfered to thrace by the Egyptians. The Harari then were given lands by the Eastern Emperor. The nomadic Harari marched northwest and settled on the steppe lands of Afold, Bakony, and Banat.

Ali AL Mohammed had brought many of the priests of Allah and most of the religoins holy releics. He was proclaimed the successor of Mohammed and would rule as Priest and King in these new lands.

To insure the survival of Islam though, many emmisaries were sent into southern africa and into the far east to look for the lost tribes of Islam.

NORTH AFRICA

Mercenaries:
10i, 5c, 4s, 4w, 4t

THE KINGDOM OF EGYPT-Monophysite-Civilized, Tech Lvl 5

King Ramsis

Diplomacy: none

Egypt was quiet, but alert. A deal was struck with the Harari. They would migrate into Europe and the Egyptians would help transport them. Better to have all your enemies on one front than two I guess.

One important development was the Kings new law ending slavery. The slaves would have some rights but not be free citizens. Instead the former slaves would operate from guilds owned by the nobility. Not a huge improvement, but a significant one none the less.

THE MONOPHYSITE CHURCH-Monophysite-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Patriarch Parysatis

Diplomacy: Soro (ab) Kanem Bornu (ch) Salamat (ca) Levant (ca)

Archbishop Goldfishious passed away in early 581, so he missed the Churches new policy. In order to reach the heathen africans the church began to use many of the Pagan symbols and teach how they are really representations of Christ. Many a Pagan holiday suddenly became a high holy day in the Church as well.

THE ORDER OF THE THEBAN LEGION-Monophysite-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Exuperantius, Grandmaster of the Order.

Diplomacy: none

The order rebuilt its strength and prepared in case the muslims would choose war instead of peace. Grandmaster Victor passed away in 583AD.
 

THE KINGDOM OF THE VANDALS-Arian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

King Simon

Diplomacy: none

The ever vigilant Vandals remained on alert. Rumors of war were constant. But between training manuevers and patrols the King did order the construction of a new port  city. It was named Melilla and built in Zirid.
 

THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF GOD (arians)-Arian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Patriarch Terbiuos

Diplomacy: Adrar (ch) Melilla (ch) Zirid (ab) Fez (mn)

The Church began a reformation movement and the new name was proclaimed as the "Christian Church of God". Missionaries were continued in africa. However the most interesting thing was the missioanry work done amongst the Britannians (Domnonia, Salisbury, and Powys) with Britannia's conversion to CelticChristianity it is a time of religious zeal and upheaval in Britain.

THE ARIAN KNIGHTS OF CARTHAGE-Arian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Hermeric the Suevian, Grandmaster of the Order.

Diplomacy: Aquitaine (nt) Auvergne (nt) Awlil (t) Arguin (t) Idjil (t)

The Arian Knights continued to reach out and try and increase the scope of thier orders holdings.

EASTERN AFRICA

Mercenaries:
7i, 4w, 4t

THE EMPIRE OF ETHIOPIA-Monophysite-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

Emperor Samuel

Diplomacy: none

Ethiopia rebuilt its army and concentrated its efforts in assisting the parent church. King Jeremiah died in late 585AD. His brother Samuel became King without Challenge.
 

WESTERN AFRICA

Mercenaries:
10i, 5w, 5t

Croats-10i

AKAN LORDS OF THE GOLD COAST-African Pagan-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

King Chacahtl

Diplomacy:

no turn received

THE KINGDOM OF AKWAR-Sunni Islam-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 2

King Cetshwaye

Diplomacy:
 
  No orders received

THE KINGDOM OF KANEM-Coptic Christian-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

King Nguabornu

Diplomacy: Kono (nt) Sokoro (nt) Soro (nt)

Kanem spent its time in tryin to pusuade its neighbors to join with the them. Peace was at hand in the realm.

THE KINGDOM OF THE CROATS-Coptic Christian-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

King Ramidalv

Diplomacy: none

Unlike their neighbors in Kanem, the Croats were off to war again. They continued to destroy the Ghanese Kingdom a piece at a time. This time Galam and Takrur fell to the white devils. They were enslaved and the huge number of slaves were marched back to the capital.

SOUTH AFRICA

THE KINGDOM OF THE ZULU-African Pagan-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 2

King Shakka

Diplomacy: Banhine (nt) Shona (nt) Gorongo (nt)

Shakka sent his sub chieftains to the neighboring lands on his eastern border encouraging them to join his realm.

He then gathered up the Zulu warriors and marched south to war. Matopos resisted as best it could but fell, the Zulu's suffered moderate losses. Shakka left a garrison (not a large enough one) and marched his men over the mountains into Vaal. The warriors of Vaal were waiting and set upon the Zulu as they came down from the mountains. A terrible battle resulted. The Zulu were repelled and forced to retreat into Matopos. Atleast they had a large enough garrison now in those conquered lands.

MIDDLE EAST

Mercenaries:
16i, 12c, 19lc, 4w, 4t

THE SASSANID EMPIRE-Zoroastrian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 5

Ardashir III, King of Kings, King of Persia, media, and Babylonia, the Overlord of Syria, and Lebanon, the light of the Aryans, the Holy Arm of Ahura Mazda, the Great King, the Sassanid, Heir to the Achaemenids. 

Diplomacy: none

Emperor Ardashir and watched as his allies gathered into Ctesiphon. Khazars, Parthians, and troops of the Holy church and its order flocked into the holy city, ready for war if need be. Nearly 300,000 in all. A teaming mass of humanity readying for war.

In the end war never came. A campaign in the south (Adenese, Egyptian, Sassanid, and Farohars) by the allied coalition quickly over ran the region of Madina, the City of Mecca was defiant but when the Imam was assassinated, coupled with the fact that most of the religons holy artifacts were spirited out of the city before hand, led to the city giving in after a short siege. Few priests were found, they had fled to seek Islams fortunes elswhere.

The Victorius Sassanids closed the Islamic mosques and turned over some to the zoroastrian Primate. They then returned to Lebanon. The other allied powers left Mecca as well. Only the Adenese, who took over the lands, and the Farohars kept troops remained.

THE ZOROASTRIAN CHURCH-Zoroastrian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Patriarch Aintain

Diplomacy: Hijaz (ch) Madinna (ch) Mecca (ab) <---confiscated Mosques. Tyre (mn) Petra (ab) Al Aqabah (ab)

Araphos oversaw the gathering host in the Holy city, each new troop would be met and given a blessing by the elederly Patriarch. The majority of the other clergy were sent south to aid in the conversion of the Islamic lands to the true faith. They concentrated in the rebel lands of Aden, but even the interior desert lands of Ad'dahna saw converts.

In the year 583AD, Araphos passed away. Aintain became Patriarch.
 

THE FAROHARS OF AHURA MAZDA-Zoroastrian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4
Grandmaster Nerman

Diplomacy: Tyre (ab) Khwarzim (ca)

The chief Maji, Nerman, continued his efforts out east. He established a Cathedral in Khwarzim. Master Mainyu led the orders forces in Madina in the brief war down south.

Brother Haurvatat returned from Yemen and took charge of the orders forces in the gathering in Ctesiphon.

THE SULTAN OF OMAN-Zoroastrian-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

Caliph Terik

Diplomacy: none'

The Venerable Terik ruled and remained vigilant should any attacks from Islam come. His son, and heir, Muhammed died in 581. 

THE IMMAMATE OF MECCA-Sunni Islam-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

Imam Ali

Diplomacy:

The Islamic diapora occurs and many of the clergy flee to seek the lost tribes of islam in Asia, and in africa. Most of the Religions holy relics arrive in Europe with the harari and Ali al Mohammed who becomes Priest and King, heir to Mohammed.

THE SULTAN OF ADEN-Zoroastrian-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 4

Caliph Abu Haytham

Diplomacy: Zanzibar (nt)

Abu Haythem went north and attacked Madina and Mecca with his allies. His son Fahad stayed behind in Sana to do the paper work and argue with the scribes.

Lord Khaleel was sent to the far south along the eastern african coast, there he did his best to convince the local tribes to accept adenese traders and good will.
 

CENTRAL ASIA

Mercenaries:
5c, 5lc

THE KHANATE OF KARA-KHITAI-Zoroastrian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Mongka  Khan

Diplomacy: Tadzik (f)

The Khazars sent a huge army to defend the holy city of Ctesiphon. Mongka Khan remained behind and ordered missionaris into Kuldja, they were aided by the Farohars and the region was completely converted at last.

THE PARTHIAN EMPIRE-Zoroastrian-Civilized, Tech Lvl 5

Emperor Kurvak

Diplomacy: Bauluch (ea)

Emperor Kurvak continued to oversee his young realm. He ordered considerable investments made into bringing order to the age old tribal system. Worried about the great struggle out west, the King sends of his nephew Mithridates, Baron Abarshahr, and the Shah's of Carmenia and Baluchistani to Ctesiphon to stand with the holy church and his allies. The Emperor then went and attended services at the local dire temple, he prayed for deliverance and peace for the faithful of Ahura-Mazda.

In 582AD, Kurvak took ill and died shortly there after. Mithridates was proclaimed Emperor even though he was away in Ctesiophon.

In 584AD, the Shah of Carmenia died while in Ctesiphon. 

INDIA

Mercenaries:
5i, 5c, 5s, 5w, 5t

THE GUPTA EMPIRE-Hindu-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Kalrini, Empress of the Gupta

Diplomacy: Khadernu (nt) Arakan (nt) Mansura (a) Pagan (nt)

The Gupta return their attention to the east. Missionaries complete the conversion of Burma to Hinduism. Then as major negotiations get underway the Gupta heir dies. The empress, known for her temper, takes it out on Pegu and demands harsh terms of them for their continued existance.

Amongst these terms are guarentees of access for Gupta leaders and trade representatives, and a huge annual tribute. Pegu has little choice and accepts.

THE KINGDOM OF ASAMAKA-Hindu-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

King Mocca

Diplomacy: Chola (ea)

In India the Asamakaran plan is to strengthen its internal cohesion through diplomatic efforts. Across the ocean in africa the Somali allies of the crown continue their slave raids.

Admiral Aharmani lead a exploration voyage across the monsoon straight. Accompanied by Brahman Zahin, and the raja of Maldives, the admiral was generously supported by the crown, over 130 light warships. The expediton made good time as the monsoon winds began to brew up. Aharmani tried his best to follow the stars, as the clouds of the stormy season arrived this became near impossible. Dozens of vessels were lost as the rains came. Fortunatly as the truly heavy storms arrived the fleet appeared off the Indian coast, they had made it!

Aharmani put his fleet into port at Banavasi. The rutters were recorded in the capital.

THE TEMPLE OF KALI-Hindu-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Sajid Tajuddin

Diplomacy:
 

No orders received

THE SWORD OF SHIVA-Hindu-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Grandmaster Surijarva

Diplomacy:

 Player dropped, Position OPEN

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Mercenaries:
10i, 4c, 6w, 5t

Champa- 4c, 6i

THE KINGDOM OF CHAMPA-Hindu-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

King Ru Vi Mingou

Diplomacy: Leyte (t) Mindanao (nt)

The King ordered the forces of Champa to raid Nikhon, Korat, and NanChao. Many slaves were taken and they spread fear into those unfortunate lands.

Diplomatic efforts continued in the phillipines. In the capital a celebration was held to mark Ru Norodom being raised to the rank of Prince. Missionary efforts were continued with success amongst the Khemer peoples.
 
 

THE COMMONWEALTH OF PEGU-Hindu-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Kalingrup Tar, First Citizen and Lord High protector of the Commonwealth

Diplomacy: Mon (ea)

The noble houses of Pegu met to select a new magistrate (Lord High Protector) to lead the realm. Apuran was a skilled debator and orator. However his support for the unpopular peace with the Gupta cost him support. Everyone knew the treaty was necessary, but someone must pay for it, and Apuran was left with the bill. Kalingrup Tar was selected to be magistrate and the founding noble family lost its power in as the head of the Commonwealth.

PACIFICA

Mercenaries:
5i, 5w, 5t

THE SRIVIJAYAN EMPIRE-Hindu-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

King Frakaken

Diplomacy: Aceh (nt) Andaman Isles (nt) Kadaram (f) Moluccus (fa) Utura (nt)

Frakaken, the new King, spread his diplomats far and wide to improve his holdings. He also ordered the city of "Monjara" built in Aceh.
 

CHINA AND JAPAN

Mercenaries:
10i, 5c, 5w, 5t, 5s

THE NORTHERN EMPIRE OF THE GOLDEN DRAGON-Buddhist-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Emperor Si-Lei III

Diplomacy: Shangtung (f)

The Northern Dragon continued to build and improve their economy. The city of New Dragon was built in Tangchou.

Emperor Si-Lei III watched with concern as the Buddhist faith went through its upheaval, for the most part the Theravada were located in the south and so only a minority of his nobles followed them.

THE EMPIRE OF THE SOUTHERN DRAGON-Buddhist-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Emperor Hu Xuang

Diplomacy:  Kweichou (f) Fujian (nt) Ganchou (ea) Hainan (nt) Taiwan (nt) Luzon (nt)

Emperor Hu Xuang was a tormented soul, his dreams were fit full and he always had a haggard look from loss of sleep. He began to wonder himself if the religous upheaval happening in his capital was not divinely inspired. The majority of his nobles were convinced. And when the Theravada split off the EMperor did nothing. His nobility were firmly behind the Theravadan monks.

THE KINGDOM OF THE TOBA WEI-Buddhist-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

King Wei Sin

Diplomacy: none

Things were quiet in the northern steppe kingdom. Little of the buddhist troubles in the far south bothered the folk up here. The land had peace and prosperity. Th city of "Tuan" was built in Ordos.

In 581AD the general Guan Yu passed away.
 

THE MAHAYANA BUDDHIST-Buddhist-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Shen Mu

Diplomacy:  none

In the Imperial capital of Tii'dawn people began to have visions and dream dreams in the summer of 581AD.  Some of the dreams were beautiful, peaceful and dealt with the 8 fold path. Others were terrible and nightmarish, Dragons fighting dragons, and death. Either way the city began to be a sanctuary and a pilgrimage for devout buddhist.

The holymen of the church sent scholars to the area to study the phenomonon and they too had dreams, soon the dreams began to speak of the church dividing, with some taking the path the buddhist are currently on, others would follow the more ancient biddhist traditions.

The religous fervor continued all through the winter and into the next year. The OPatriarch Kim Lu passed away, and amazingly with in a year the entire senior church heirachy was in their graves. Only Shen mu still lived. The Buddhist in and around Tii'dawn saw this as a sign and chose to go their own way, following the older Theravada version of Buddhism, Shen Mu became the patriarch of the Mahayana buddhist, Which were primarily in the north.
 

THE ORDER OF THE SHAOLIN TEMPLE-Buddhist-Civilized, Tech Lvl 4

Shen Jihuan

Diplomacy: Lingnan (ca) Dai Viet (ab) Hmong (ch) Surin (ch) Khemer (ch)

Grandmaster Shen was deeply troubled, his order had been focusing heavily in the south of late and now that the people in the south had rallied behind the Theravad he was unsure what to do. Many of the orders brethren were excited about the new movement in the buddhist faith. The potential for the order to be torn apart existed, the need to walk with caution was paramount.
 

THE KHANATE OF THE HSUING NU-Asiatic Pagan-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

Khan Liao Chien

Diplomacy:  Ta'ting (f)

The Hsuing'nu continued to strengthen their realms land after the long and devestating war with Korea.

Then down, a sound of impact followed by a thud and a spray of red as the horse's heads fell in unison. Into the silence the Khan spoke, "Oh Tengri, guide these ships by your winds across the steppe of water, that your people may gain in glory and power, and further curse the memory of the Koreans."

THE TAKEDA SHOGUNATE-Shinto-Sea Faring, Tech Lvl 4

Shogun Hidetaka

Diplomacy: 

 
No turn received

NORTH AMERICA

Mercenaries:
None

THE MISSISSIPPIAN FEDERATION-Pelegian Christian-Precolumbian, Tech Lvl 1

Powtuneep

Diplomacy: Creek- (a)

Powunteep died in early 582. His heir, Prince John, returned to the capital to take his fathers place. In the meantime the national policy continued as before with diplomatic and conversion efforts amongst the creek.
 

THE CREEK FEDERATION-North Amerind-Precolumbian, Tech Lvl 1

Shukahosus

Diplomacy: none

OPEN FOR A PLAYER

CENTRAL AMERICA

Mercenaries:
None

THE KINGDOM OF THE TOLTEC-Mesoamerind-Precolumbian, Tech Lvl 1

Tatlamocain

Diplomacy:

No turn received
   

THE KINGDOM OF ALBION-Pelegian Christian-Barbarian, Tech Lvl 3

King Penwyr, defender of the Pelegian faith.

Diplomacy: Maya (a) Chichen Itza (a)

The Picts established an alliance with the Maya and were blessed when their missionaries were able to report that the Mayans were entirely covnerted to the true faith.

SOUTH AMERICA

Mercenaries:
None

THE KINGDOM OF THE HUARI-South Amerind-Precolumbian, Tech Lvl 1

Tutem

Diplomacy: Nazca (ea) Pucara (t)

The Huari continued the economy development of the realm. In addition the diplomats did their best to expand the realms holdings. To help these efforts Prince Mexcatl took a bride from the Mazca nobility.