Lords of the Earth Campaign 31

Turn 1: Anno Domini 1401 - 1404

Industrial Stage One: The Dawn of the Modern Age

Click here to go back to Lords of the Earth Campaign 31 home page.

TURN 2 is due Friday, 7 January 2000. Just think, 358 days until the 21st Century!

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND GM COMMENTS

Welcome to Lords of the Earth, Campaign 31! This is a game of empire building set in an historical setting. You will have the chance to control the rise and fall of empires through political, economic, military, espionage, and religious activities. Since this is an open-ended game, covering a span of centuries, you will have the opportunity to do pretty much anything you can imagine.

I'm shooting for a 4-week turn-around for this campaign - two weeks for you to submit your orders and two weeks for me to process them. Maps are available on the Lords-31 website.

If you want to submit material for the newsfax, either as the "mouthings of the emperor" or as background material to help me write things up, by all means do so. However, I reserve the right to make necessary changes.

Things to consider: I developed this campaign based on historical situations as best as I could determine. If there are any glaring mistakes in the setup -- we'll just say, welcome to my version of reality. Most countries start with very similar government stats in order to prevent any gross errors on my part form imbalancing the game right from the beginning. There are some inherent instability in some countries but those factors may not cause historical results. Likewise, inherently stable countries can have unfortunate events occur to them, though no events have been preordained.

I sent out a policy for payment of fees, etc. in the admin instructions prior to Turn one being due. I am now modifying that policy due to a circumstance that may have occurred. If your country is negative in balance, I'm going to give it away to someone else if that is not resolved by the next turn's due date. If your country has a zero balance and no orders are received, I'm going to offer it to other potential players. The reason for this change is the possibility of someone using an alias e-mail name and address to get the stat sheet of another nation and then not sending in orders or fees for that position. The position then suffers a terrible fate due to perfect intel on the aggressors part with no movement orders for the defender. If I have to give up a player position, I will hold processing of that part of the world until a repalcement player has the opportunity to submit orders - typically the same day.

That brings us to the status and execution of NPN's and positions that fail to turn in orders. I will use my "best" judgement in these circumstances; if the players near this position are actively participating, then the NPN will be very passive, concentrating on PWB and investments. If the nearby players are not very active then the NPN will move out and try to dp the adjacent regions.

Good Luck to all!

- Dave Salter

RULES ERRATA AND REMINDERS

Colonization: Any region that is cultivated or has been cultivated and is less than 2 GPV can be increased in value up to 2 GPV for the cost of 15 gp and 15 nfp per GPV of increase. Any named island can be colonized to 1 gpv.

Mercs: Countries can hire out their troops as mercenaries as long as they provide a leader to go along with them.

Holy Roman Empire: National regions inside the Holy Roman Empire need not be contiguous in order to maintain control over them, though distance requirements are still in effect.

Mercantile Combines: A Mercantile Combine can trade with interior countries provided they have at least a BO in a city of the interior country and can reach a port city with at least a BO in it. The BO in the interior country can be no further than 1/2 their tech level in action points away from that port. In addition, that combine can conduct trade for the interior country by allocating msp to that route, indicating a level of transportation assets committed to servicing that route. This conduit will count as one conduit for overseas trade.

A clarafication to the rule book: a combine can only handle one side of the trade between two nations. It is the responsibility of the combine to redistribute income from the routes his handles for his clients. Trade income received in turn 2 will be redistributed by the combine in turn 3.

Religious Orders: New status codes will be applied to religious orders. They are similar ot Primate control statuses except they will allow for a slight increase in the amount of NFP generated. Also, the Religious Primate and a Religious Order (of the same religion) can maintain a status level in the same region or city. However, the Religious Order status cannot go higher that monastery (rmn) if the Primate has a monastery (mn) of its own. No two Religious Orders can maintain higher than abbey (rab) in the same region or city.

Religious Order Authority Control Statuses

Contacting the Game Master

You can contact me at the following address:

Dave Salter
7338 Rolling Oak Ln.
Springfield, VA 22153
Or call:

(703) 912-6076 (best time is 7-9 pm weekdays and after 6 pm on weekends.)

The best way to contact me is by email. I will answer mail as soon as I receive it.
My address is: salterdj@aol.com.

GENERAL THRONE ENTERPRISES INFORMATION AND PRICES

WORLD WIDE WEB HOME PAGE!

Throne Enterprises Home Page can be found at:
http://www.throneworld.com/lords/index.html

Click here to find out about other Lords of the Earth campaigns.

VARIOUS FEES AND LEVIES

Normal Turns: $5.00

MAPS

Will be available via the main web page only. Make sure you gain one of these maps for your area.

MAP CHANGES

I have made a few alterations to the maps. These changes reflect the changes, from my perspective, from the standard 1000AD start to 1400AD. Each turn's map will be updated and posted within a day of the Newsfax posting.

ORDERING THE RULEBOOK Lords of the Earth Campaign 31 uses the Middle Ages version 5.6 rulebook and the Renaissance Supplement. You must order these rulebooks from Thomas Harlan.

Other Costs

Make out checks for these items to THOMAS HARLAN

Thomas Harlan
4858 East 2nd Street
Tucson, AZ 85711-1207

TROOP CONVERSIONS

Infantry (200 men = 1 point)
Cavalry (200 men and 200 horse = 1 point)
Siege Engineers (200 men = 1 point)
Warships (2 ships = 1 point)
Transports (2 ships = 1 point)

EUROPE

Northern Europe

THE KINGDOM OF SCOTLAND
Robert III
DIPLOMACY: Munster (nt), Lothian (ne)
Robert reorganized the army and sent his ambassador to Munster to court the lords of that region. He also reorganized his nation's trade, opening routes with with many of his western European neighbors.
Civilized tech 7.

THE KINGDOM OF ENGLAND
Henry IV
DIPLOMACY: Mercia (a), North Umbria (a)
With the deep pockets of Burgundy, The English and French have come to terms, effectively ending the 60 years War. Henry went north to Northumbria to gain a wife and bring the Barons closer to the Crown; he was successful in both endeavors, his wife Mary gave birth to a son in 1404. Henry sent his eldest son (Henry V) to Mercia to accomplish the same thing with equal success. He also invested in improvements in the countryside, though it seemed he gained a little more than he invested.
Civilized tech 7.

THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK
Margaret
DIPLOMACY: Orkneys (ea), Shetlands (ea), Norway (ea), Uppsala (ea), Koparberg (ea)
Queen Margaret Conducts a counting of the heads in her newly expanded kingdom.When she is done she finds that there is much paperwork to be done when ruling such a large nation, so she spends her time seeing to the needs of the nation. She also sends out her agents to build relationships with some regions while distancing others from her throne. Trade assets are rearranged as new routes are opened.
Civilized tech 7.

Western Europe

Mercenaries

THE KINGDOM OF FRANCE
Charles VI
DIPLOMACY: Ponthieu (ea), Lyonnais (a)
Charles gained Poitou and Orleans inn the peace with England, but he had to cede Nivernais to Burgundy. France is still racked with government inefficiencies with a crippling effect on royal tax receipts. Trade is initiated with the Byzantine Empire.
Civilized tech 7.

THE DUCHY OF BURGUNDY
John the Fearless
DILPOMACY: Brabant (a), Antwerpen (a), Hainaut (ne), Aachen (c), Nivernais (pt), Champagne (fa)
The Duke orchestrated peace in Western Europe, signified by the signing of the Treaties of Calais and Orleans; he gave up Orleans in exchange for Nivernais and a free hand in Champagne. He gave the antagonists gold to soothe their anger and for himself, he came closer to linking his lowland provinces via land to his Burgundian homeland. Burgundy opened trade with the Swiss and made major trade concession to the League, authorizing the League to conduct all his overseas trading.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF CASTILE
Enrique III
DIPLOMACY: Galacia (a)
Enrique ushered in the era of Christian peace in Iberia by ceding Asturia to Navarre and then sending his son, Juan, to Navarre to participate in the ceremony for just such an occasion. Enrique also ordered Pedro to entreat with the Galacians and then move south into Andalusia and Geb-al-tarik. However, it took Pedro so long to convince the Galacians that that was all he was able to do. A lone prospector discovered gold in Leon and all of a sudden there was a stampede to prospect for gold. Leon's (GPV is now 3)
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF ARAGON
Pedro IV
DIPLOMACY: Cyprus (fa)
Pedro cedes Sardinia to Florence and the Baelerics to Portugal. He also ordered massive trade restructuring and reorganization. With the help of Castile and Portugal, more of the citizens of Valencia see the Cross as their salvation. Juan, the heir apparent, leaves for Cyprus where he takes a bride and receives the Cypriot Oath of Fealty. Though, for some reason an upstart cartel representative tried to undermine the negations. Back home, Pedro Sires a young daughter in 1402 and then twin sons in 1404. In between, he attends the Iberian unification ceremony in Navarre.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF NAVARRE
Raymond
DIPLOMACY: Asturias (t)
Raymond host the Iberian unification ceremony; all of Iberia attends. Castile cedes Asturias to Navarre; the citizens of Asturias are so happy about being an important province in a kingdom instead of a backwater. Navarre now has access to merchant shipping through Bilboa in Asturias.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF PORTUGAL
John I
DIPLOMACY: Baelarics (nt)
John joined in on the pan-Iberian unification, sending his son Edward to participate. Before Edward left, he was very busy ensuring the royal line would continue, siring three sons and a daughter. He also modified his fleet and put them on patrol to protect Iberian shipping. Aragon is granted tributary status over Evoro.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE EMIRATE OF GRANADA
Abu'l Hassan
DIPLOMACY: None
The Emir wondered why he wasn't invited to the Iberian unification ceremony; does that mean the Christians are holding a grudge due to the six centuries of Islamic benevolence on the peninsula. Oh well, only time would tell... Hassan also tried to get into the trading game, opening trade with many of his Christian neighbors.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE AVIGNON PAPACY
Clementine
DIPLOMACY: Abbeys in Naples, Palermo, Savoy, Genoa, Burgundy, Utrecht, London
With the resignation of Urban VII, all the Catholic rulers were quick to recognize Clementine. Clementine moved the Papacy back to Rome, were it truely belongs. One disurbing note was the burning of part of the Papal baggage train just outside of Avignon.

Clementine also dealt with the heretical Hussites:

"The practice of communion in both kinds will be declared acceptable by papal fiat. The papal court itself shall practice it. The Hussites shall be declared to be true Christians.

He also sent missionaries to the Golden Horde. They preached that Christ is a great warrior deity, the avatar of the god of the Great Sky, who in truth is the only god, who allowed himself to die so that he might harrow hell itself, defeating death and gaining the ability to grant eternal life to his followers. He is constantly battling against the forces of darkness. He shall soon come from the Great Sky to defeat his remaining enemies with fire and sword, throw down the Muslims and rule as the great chieftain of all under the sky and above it, above the earth, and below it. The pope is his chief shaman and exercises power in His name. They will add that alcoholic beverages are permitted, but that overindulgence is discouraged.

Renaissance tech 8.

THE SWISS CONFEDERATION
Edward III
DIPLOMACY: Tyrol (c)
"Sweeping down from their high mountain villages, the heavily armored eidgenossen ("oathbrothers") of the allied Swiss cantons trudge through Alpine passes down into Swabia. The goal of the well-drilled regiments of pikemen is to drive out the repressive nobility of Swabia, and allow the peasants, artisans and merchants of the various towns there to join the Swiss republic." Edward's forces did sweep the nobility out of Swabia; the only remaining question is how will the peasantry feel about their new economic freedom.

After hearing the news of Austria's defeat of Bavaria, Edward also sent Werner to Tyrol to encourage their entry into the Confederation. The citizen's of Tyrol were wary due to possible Swiss acquiescence with Austria's attack against the Duke.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE DUCHY OF AUSTRIA
Albrecht IV, Arch Duke of Austria
DIPLOMACY: None
With the apparent coordination with the mercenary Swiss, Austria launched a lightning strike into the heart of Bavaria. The Duke rode out to meet the Austrians with 3,000 infantry and 2,000 cavalry. Albrecht brought 3,000, infantry, 2000 cavalry and over 1,000 heavily armored knights, but most importantly, he brought his superior tactical skill. After the first contact, almost 4,000 Bavarians lay dead or wounded on the battlefield. Jobst tried to flee to Augsburg with his remaining forces only to be overtaken by the Austrian cavalry.
Renaissance tech 8.

DUCHY OF SAXONY
Rupert III
DIPLOMACY: Westphalia (c), Friesland (nt), Lorraine (nt)
Started trade with his neighbors and made concessions to the League. He was pleased with the birth of his second son in 1402 and a daughter in 1404.
Renaissance tech 8.

DUCHY OF BAVARIA
Jobst
DIPLOMACY: Suing for terms with Austria
With the Bavarian Elector's capture in the pursuit; Augsburg's taste for fighting evaporated. By the Fall of 1404, the city had surrendered and all resistance had ceased.
Renaissance tech 8.

HANSEATIC LEAGUE
Klaus Stortebecker
DILPOMACY: Merchant Factors in Aalborg, Edinburgh, London, Lisbon, Madiera
The League conducts a massive reorganization of its trade network, signing contracts with Burgundy, Saxony and the Teutonic Knights. The English seem to expect the League to run a couple of it's routes but found the League was already committed to handle the other end of each of those routes.
Renaissance tech 8.

DUCHY OF BRADENBURG
Frederick I, Elector of Brandenburg
DIPLOMACY: Pomern (ea)
Frederick I issues orders that any foreign intervention in Brandenburg's affairs be met with a full out military response. Towards this end he commands the building of field forts and the commissioning of field units. Also, he commands the commencement of trade with Saxony. After spending some time with his wife and children, Frederick, his honorable lieutenant Adolphus and the Brandenburg army issue forth to Pomern where they spend the remaining time in convincing the locals of the advantages of coming into Brandenburg's sphere of influence.
Renaissance tech 8.

DUCHY OF BOHEMIA
Wenceslas
DILPOMACY: Franconia (ea)
Wenceslas traveled to Franconia and gained the hand of the Count's daughter; with this marriage, he also gained the economic strength of the region. Bohemia has become a vital trade center in Europe's heartland.
Renaissance tech 8.

Order of the Cross and Cannon
Jan Hus
DIPLOMACY: Bavaria (rch), Austria (rch), Thuringia (rch), Saxony (rch)
It has become a recent event that Holy Communion has been given only in the form of bread, not in the forms of bread AND wine. Since our Saviour did use both, we oppose any custom to the contrary, as Rome is now using. Were Your Holiness to grant that is the proper form, we would be your most loyal followers, and would consider our order privileged to follow your leadership and consider ourselves Catholic. The only other favor we ask is that you allow us to build our monastic buildings in Catholic lands and help you mantain the Faith.
Most humbly,
Jan Hus

And with that statement, Jan Hus and the Church have reconciled their differences.
Renaissance tech 8.

Southern Europe

THE DUCHY OF MILAN
Doria
STARTS WITH: Savoy (Milan)
Doria, trying to build Milan into a powerful player in the Holy Roman Empire sends representatives to Provence to bring them into the Duchy's sphere of influence.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE REPUBLIC OF VENICE
Guilando, Doge of Venice
STARTS WITH: Verona (Venice), Epirus, Morea, Crete, Kyklades
The Doge expands trade and keeps a watchful eye on the expanding influence of Genoa.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE PAPAL STATES
Urban
DIPLOMACY: N/A

Weight of the world suddenly lifted off his shoulders, as if God Himself took the burden from him, all became clear to Urban. With quill in hand, he penned the following statement:

Greetings from the Holy Father.

After a long period of prayer, fasting, and meditation, I have been granted a divine vision that it is the will of our Heavenly Father that an immediate end be put to the spiritual conflict that now torments and threatens Europe. As the Good Shepard lays down his life for his flock, a true priest will sacrifice himself to ensure the safety and well-being of the Church and its members. God has blessed me with the ability to make such a sacrifice, and I cannot do other than submit to His divine will.

In the conviction that what I now do will best serve the interests of a united Europe and the faith I so love, I hereby, freely and without reservation, renounce all claims to the Papacy, recognize Pope Clement as the one true Pontiff, and retire to private life.

The Great Schism is ended. Long live the Holy Catholic Church! May the blessings of Almighty God be upon a Europe united in the one true faith.

Farewell.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF NAPLES
Isralo, Prince of Salerno
DIPLOMACY: Calabria (f), Spoleto (a)
Isralo built closer ties with Calabria (with the help of a marriage to his son, Leonardo) and Spoleto. He also reorganized his trade fleets.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE REPUBLIC OF FLORENCE
Lorenzo de' Medici
DIPLOMACY: None
Lorenzo tikes a bride from a closed allied family and spends the time. He spends his spare time looking in strange places for strange things -- he finds nothing. His lieutenant, Giovenco, sails out to sea looking for pirates and seals off Malta from Islamic shipping and interference.
Renaissance tech 8.

GENOESE TRADE COMBINE
Grimaldi
DIPLOMACY: Provence (mf), Seville (mf)
Genoa becomes a mercantile combine. Francesco start trade with the Golden Horde in an effort to secure trading rights in the Black Sea. He also ordered the defenses improved in Liguria and the capitol.
Renaissance tech 8.

Eastern Europe

THE KINGDOM OF POLAND AND LITHUANIA
Jagiello, Duke of Lithuania and King of Poland
DIPLOMACY: Smolensk (f), Krakow (f), Pomerania (nt), Moldavia (fa) Rzhez (nt)
Jagiello made arrangements to run his kingdom more effectively; one of those arrangements was getting help from the Papacy. He also invested in his own government and bureaucracy. Trade was initiated with all neighbors and many eastern Mediterranean nations.
Civilized tech 7.

THE TEUTONIC KNIGHTS
Conrad von Jungingen, Grand Master
DIPLOMACY: Holstien (t)
The Knights sign a major trade contract with the League and open land trade with Novgorod. Ultrecht was sent on a mission to Holstien to ask for tribute; for some reason, they agreed.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE REPUBLIC OF NOVGOROD
Alexander
STARTS WITH: None
Alexander initiates trade with the Teutonic Knights. He also tries to improve the lot of the rural population. The yoke of Mongol overlordship weighs on his shoulders.
Cicilized tech 7.

THE PRINCIPALITY OF MOSCOW
Basil I
DIPLOMACY: Tver (f)
In a ceremony in the Royal Palace, Basil II is proclaimed heir of Basil I, and future successor to the Grand Principality of Moscow. His title is Prince-heir. Couriers are sent off to the Khan of the Golden Horde, the King of Poland, the Lord of Novgorod, and the Emperor of Byzantium with the news of Basil II new status of heir. Basil also sent Dimitri to Tver to welcome them fully into the Principality.
Civilized tech 6.

THE KHANATE OF THE GOLDEN HORDE
Toktamish
STARTS WITH: Khazar (f), Nogai (f)
Toktamish reordganizes his army in preparation of another visit by his dear friend Tamerlane; apparently Tamerlane was conducting a state visit to Egypt an would be unavailble for some time to come. In the mean time, the Khan reaffirmed his relationship with Moscow and gained full support by the clans of Khazar and Nogai.

In early 1404, he had a small city of tents set up in the plains outside Sarai Batu. Here the "Khan of Khans" heard the summarized teachings of the worlds religions. Many of the world's leading religious leaders sent representatives. The Khan had a strange set of standards the delegates might have to meet. In case of violence between priests or their adherents, punishment will be swift. One in four of the heads of each delegation chosen at random will be tied to a post and whipped with a riding crop for "a while," depending on how the Khakhan feels about them that day. Performance under pain will also be evaluated. The following delegations arrived in the spring of 1404: Three Zoroastrian magi from India; A Sri Lankan Buddhist monk; Coptic Christian missionaries; Large contingent of Manichean Turks; 10 rabbis from various parts; A lone Sufi named Hamid; 4 Shi'ite clergy; One Dervish, whirling; A travelling party of Jainist merchants; One Confucian with entourage, out of favor at the Chinese court; A shaman from fabled Amazonia and her blonde travelling companion; An athiest from Baghdad; An Epicurean philosopher from Constantinople; and a party sent by the Avignon Papacy.

Toktamish, was polite but spent more time study reports from the frontier rather than investigating each of the representatives positions. Purhaps a roll of the dice might be useful in determining whose position represented "truth."
Nomadic - tech 5.

THE KINGDOM OF HUNGARY
Sigismund
DIPLOMACY: None
King Sigismund took in everything that was happening in the region of Europe.Some of Hungarys trade routes were blocked by war and an enormous force of destruction was not that far away or so his reports informed him. "Let Hungary and its people survive the upcoming years, we shall strive to defend not only ourselves but the peoples & lands of our neighbors to the West as well." So saying the King ordered the storing of grains, food, and water in the capital in case the worst happened. An off shoot of that which was not forseen was the roads and farms nearby became more productive as there was greater need for their goods within the city nearby. The Cavalry was soarly needed in far greater numbers than what was currently available. There were not enough people of fighting age in the entire kingdom to summon up a powerful enough force so they were disbanded after deliberation to help in the preperation of the defense of Hungary. The relatively new gunpowder weapons were brought into play and Siege Engineers worked hand in hand with those of the Artillery to ensure that if that day did come their efforts would not go in vane. An assault on Buda would surely fail. Rivmyr may not have been the most capable commander ever to take the field, but he was very popular with the men and he would be able to pass the upcoming time in high morale with the men. Sigismund casts a wary eye south, wondering what can come of the Ottoman conversion to Christianity. Buda increases in size and Sigismund is bless with a daughter in 1402 and a son in 1403.
Civilized tech 7.

THE PRINCIPALITY OF SERBIA
Stephen Lazarevich
DIPLOMACY: None
Serbia declared peace with Hungary and began trade throughout the Balkans.
Civilized tech 6.

THE BYZANTINE EMPIRE
Manuel II
DIPLOMACY: Trebizond (f)
To Manuel and the citizens of Constantinople, it seemed that God not only turned away the Hounds of Hell, He converted them in to Angels. With it's new found life, the Empire has reinvigorated its trade throughout the region and bought grain from the Ottomans.
Renaissance tech 8.

AEGEAN CCI
Paul Atatarxos
DIPLOMACY: Cyprus (ne), Merchant Factors in Smyrna, Heraclea, Varna, Kiev, Vilna, Belgrade, Buda, Vienna
Paul order a vast increase in the family's area of influence. His influence now extends into Poland and up the Danube to Vienna. He made an attempt to court the lords of Cyprus, but he could overcome the offer of marriage brought by the Aragon Prince.
Renaissance tech 8.

ASIA

The Middle East

Mercenaries

THE OTTOMAN SULTANATE
Bayazid
DIPLOMACY: Loses Bithnia, Lydia, Paphlagonia, Psidia
Bayazid dodge the Timurid invasion but he now has another challenge to face. On the road to Damascus, er.. Bursa, the Sultan was confronted with all the carnage he had caused. He was in the process of destroying one of the great world civilizations. Is this what God wanted him to do. Suddenly, it became clear to him; he would join the Byzantines and protect it from savages like Tamerlane. Clearly, the Sultan had lost his head and his lieutenants wanted to ensure that is exactly what happened.

However, the Sultan realized the danger and gathered the Army to his side. Hamir and Zechyria fled to Bithnia and instigated a rebellion.
Civilized tech 7.

EMIRATE OF RUM
Hamir
STARTS WITH: Bithnia, Lydia.
Hamir takes the Islamic heartland out of the Ottoman Empire.
Civilized tech 7.

THE KNIGHTS OF ST. JOHNS
Juan Fernandez, Grand Master
SDIPLOMACY: Morea (rab), Malta (rab)
The Grand Master reorganized his defenses and prepared to take on all comers. Trade was initiated in order to boost the resources of the Order. He then issued the following statement:

The Order will not tolerate piracy on Christian vessels, where it can intervene, it will do so with Gusto and extreme prejudice towards the pirates. Welcome to the rowing decks, fish bait. As part of the Order's many monastic duties, the care of the sick is tantamount: the Order is pledged to develop the Healing Arts into the Modern Age. As part of this pledge we will collect, protect and translate all the world's medical knowledge,(Chin, Hindi, Greek, Roman, even Islamic) and aid in the advancement of that knowledge. This is the pledge of the Order of the Knights of Saint John, the Hospitallers.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE TIMURID EMIRATE
Tamerlane
DIPLOMACY: After careful thought, NOT!
Tamerlane eyed the western skies and had a choice to make, destroy those up start Ottomans or crush the Mamelukes who had denied his ancestors the riches of Egypt. Well, the Ottomans could always wait, those Mamelukes have been a thorn in his side for long enough. With over 25,000 cavalry and 10,00 infantry, he crossed the frontier into Aleppo. (See Mamelukes)

But Tamerlane had more in mind than just another loot gathering expedition. He ordered his son to gather up the members of his tribes and bring them west. (See Mamelukes) Once the Timurids left for the west, several local princes took the opportunity to rebel against Tamerlane. (See Black Sheep) (See Safavids) The new Timurid homeland is Syria.
Nomadic - tech 5.

THE BLACK SHEEP TURKOMANS
Kara Usuf
STARTS WITH: Georgia, Azerbaijan, Shirvan, Kurdistan, Elburz
The Black Sheep Turkomans have rejected their feudal alliance with Tamerlane, betting that he will become embroiled in Egypt and won't respond to their new found independence.
Nomad tech 5.

THE MAMELUKE SULTANATE
Bartuk Malik-al-Zahir
DIPLOMACY: None
Bartuk bet Tamerlane was going for the Ottomans, so he ordered a significant part of his army to move up the Nile and enslave the population of Dongola. By the time that army began its enslavement, Tamarlane had crossed the border into Aleppo and was sweeping all before him.

As Tamerlane moved south into Lebanon, it became apparent he intended to bypass the cities of the area. The Mameluke ally, Baibar of Syria, moved west to meet him. The two forces met on the coastal plain just outside Tyre. Outnumbered 10 to 1, Baibar tried to conduct a delaying action while word was sent south asking Bartuk for reinforcements. The attempt was in vain as Tamerlane sent 4,000 cavalry on a long flanking march through the Bakka Valley that came up behind the Syrians. Baibar, seeing the door closing on the trap, tried to fight his way toward the rough terrain to the east but to no avail. All but stragglers were cut downed before they could escape.

Bartuk, hearing reports that Tamerlane was advancing into the Levant with a force three times the size of his available forces, balked at sending them forward. If only he hadn't sent those troops south into Dongola. His advisors suggested setting up a defensive line behind the Nile, using the newly constructed warships to prevent a crossing by the Mongols. Perhaps, Tamerlane could be induced to try to scale the walls of Q'arum and bleed themelves on the cities fortifications.

The Mongol forces swept through the Levant unopposed and then moved swiftly into the Sinai and Mansura. As they moved to Q'arum, Tamerlane realized without ships to fend off the Mameluke navy and force a blockade on the city, he did not have the power to breach the walls. He left a small screen force and moved the bulk of his army towards Damascus to join forces with his son.

Shah Rukh gathered the Mongol tribes from in and around Media and Persia and moved west toward Syria. By 1402, the Syrians had been crushed by his father and he easily occupied the region and set up a siege of Damascus. The reputation of the Mongols were well known and the city capitulated almost immediately after receiving assurances of the safety of the city's population. Once the city was secured, Shah Rukh settled his people into both the region and city, taking control of the best lands and richest shops.

The settlement of Aleppo was next on the agenda along with the capture and settlement of Antioch. Antioch fell when Mongol patrols surprised the gate guards and held off all attempts to recapture the gate until the main body of Shah Rukh swept into the city. Once Antioch was settled, the remaining Mongol forces took the unwalled city of Tyre and successfully besieged Jerusalem. By 1404, the main body of Mongol troops had moved back into Syria and Damascus.
Civilized tech 7.

Central Asia

THE SAFAVID SULTANATE
Haidar
STARTS WITH: Khwarzim, Bokhara, Otrarsh, Kara-Khitai, Turkmen, Bactria, Kophat Dagh
The Persians have spent almost two centuries under the Mongol yoke; its time to renew the glory of the Ancients.
Civilized 6.

THE CHEIBANID KHANATE
Mamai
DIPLOMACY: Kama Bulgar (a), Turgay (ea)
The Cheibanids invest in the government, developing a more centralized power base at the expense of their subordinate clans. Mamai also looked at his army and took steps to address certain weaknesses in it's abilities. Back at home, the Khan sent his young son, Henghis, to assist the diplomatic efforts in Kama Bulgar. Before his successful journey, Henghis sired twins, a boy and girl, ensuring the line will continue.
Nomad tech 5.

India

THE SULTANATE OF DELHI
Khizar Khan
DIPLOMACY: Kaunaj (nt)
The Sultanate himself, travels to the Rajput capital to convince them to rejoin the new Delhi Sultanate. He was surprised to find Juanpur representatives in the city, also. Using his years of experience and greater clout, he successfully wooed the city to at least nominally recognize his authority.
Civilized tech 6.

THE SULTANATE OF GUJERAT
Mahmud Shah
DIPLOMACY: Edrosia (nt), Surashtra (nt), Anhivarta (nt)
The Sultanate tries to take adnvantage of Delhi's troubles.
Civilized tech 6.

THE SULTANATE OF JAUNPUR
Begarha
DIPLOMACY: Rajput (t), Kaunaj (ne)
The Sultan invested heavy in improving the lives of the peasants in the region. He also sought to increase the status and prestige of the university. Begarha did manage to convince Rajput to pay tribute to his resurgent regime. His plans for Kaunaj were thwarted by emissaries from Delhi. There is a general subsiding of religious authority throughout the area.
Civilized tech 6.

TTHE SULTANATE OF BENGAL
Bulal Lodi
DIPLOMACY: Nadavaria (c), Assam (c), Gaur (nt), Maghada (nt)
Bulal orders his trusted lieutenant, Lord Haje, to contact the regional lords and try to bring them into his camp. Haje's success was mixed but he was generally well received. The Sultan gained a daughter in 1401 and then went off himself to talk to the leadership of Nadavaria; his reception was warm but not much was gained. Traded was initiated with Delhi, Pegu and Vijayangar.
Civilized tech 6.

THE HINDU KINGDOM OF ORISSA
Sangramaraja
DIPLOMACY: Kakatiya (nt), Chela (nt)
Sangramaraja and his lieutenants convinced the inland regions to grant him authority, at least in name only. He also order some minor improvements and investments throughout the realm.
Civilized tech 6.

THE SULTANATE OF MALWA
Ala-ud-din
DIPLOMACY: Dahala (t)
Ala-ud-din tried to pick up the pieces after the devastation of Tamerlane. He knows this is his chance but with powerful neighbors to the north and resurgent Hindus to the south, his time to strike may have passed him by.
Civilized tech 6.

THE SULTANATE OF BAHMANI
Firuz Shah
DIPLOMACY: Nasik (nt)
Firuz Shah concentrated on the affairs of his state. He looked with going concern at the increase in power of the southern Hindu states.
Civilized tech 6.

THE VIJAYANGAR EMPIRE
Devaraya
DIPLOMACY: Pandya (ea), Madurai (c)
Devaraya started the new year in a flourish. He order his agents to conduct a census and to redeploy the military. He then sent an envoy to Madurai to begin discussions on future ties. The king himself went to Pandya to begin talks. With the help of the agents he sent in to the region before his trip began, he scored a diplomatic coup. Pandyans was so impressed with his vision and knowledge of their region that they sealed full economic bonds with the Empire.
Civilized tech 6.

Indochina and Indonesia

THE BURMAN KINGDOM OF AVA
Minhkaung
DIPLOMACY: Manipur (ea)
Minhkaung granted trade with Pegu and order small improvements and investments throughout the kingdom. Minhkaung was finally blessed with a son in 1404.
Civilized tech 6.

THE MON KINGDOM OF PEGU
Razadarit
DIPLOMACY: Lampang (t)
Razadarit decreed, "Go forth and trade with all." And lo! It was done. He even opened trade with the pirates of Malacca (they agreed since it was the only shipping they have seen). The king also sent his trusted advisor to Lampang and gained tribute from that wilderness region. He was finally blessed with a daughter in 1404, though the lack of children was not from the lack of effort.
Civilized tech 6.

THE DAI KINGDOM OF ANNAM
Le Loi
DIPLOMACY: Mison (t)
Le Loi sent his agents abroad to expand the reach of his kingdom. He also made modest improvements in the lives of rural Annam.
Civilized tech 6.

THE KINGDOM OF CHAMPA
Viaya Sri Harivarman II
DIPLOMACY: Preikuk (t)
Viaya initiates trade with his former enemies to the north and gains tribute from Preikuk. The royal family grew by a son in 1402 and a daughter in 1404. A minor heretical Hindu sect started causing concern in the rural countryside.
Civilized tech 6.

THE KHEMER KINGDOM OF ANGKOR
P'ayao
DIPOLMACY: None
The Khemers cast a wary eye at their neighbors and prepare for the worse. On a positive note, P'ayao was blessed with twin sons on 1402 and a daughter in 1403.
Civilized tech 6.

THE TAI KINGDOM OF AYUTHIA
Int'araja
DIPLOMACY: Surin (t)
The Mons gained new friends in Surin and the king's son came of age.
Civilized tech 6.

THE MAJAPAHIT KINGDOM OF JAVA
Bahavijaya
DIPLOMACY: Singhasari (ea)
Bahavijaya order vast reorganizations within the Kingdom in order to boost his economy. The leaders of Singhasari bought into his plan for economic expansion and decided to join the kingdom. With a smile on his face and a skip in his stride, the King's heart warmed with the news of the birth of twins sons in 1402. Two years later he was graced with a happy, lovely daughter.
Civilized tech 6.

THE KINGDOM OF MALACCA
Paramesvara
DIPLOMACY: None
Paramesvara consolidated his grip on the Kingdom; he now sits on the shore looking for merchant shipping to start cruising through the Malacca Strait. News from Java, rejecting trade with all outsiders, did not bode well for his plan.
Civilized tech 6.

East Asia

Mercenaries

THE EMPIRE OF THE GREAT KHAN
Dayan Khan
DIPLOMACY: Hah!
The Mongols reorganized their empire, granting more local control over many outlying regions. Henghis came of age and, as a trial of manhood, conducted several raids to the west to collect gold and slaves. Trade, surprisingly, was started with the Ming.
Civilized tech 6.

MING EMPIRE OF CHINA
Yung-lo
DIPLOMACY: Shensi (a), Koueichou (f), Chiangning (ea)
The Emperor conducted a census and order his emissaries far and wide to consolidate his hold on China. Shensi and the cities of Koueichou and Chiangning increased their ties to the empire. Investments were order for government improvements as well as irrigation and sanitation projects for the peasants of Hupei. Yung-lo offers all nations of East Asia peace and prosperity under the benevolent guidance of Ming China.
Civilized tech 6.

ASHIKAGA JAPAN
Yamana
DIPLOMACY: Aichi (c), Yamato (nt)
Yamana sensed the Hosokawa upstarts would have to be dealt with sooner rather than later with more rather than less. He gathered his forces, numbering some 2800 infantry and almost 1000 cavalry with a small naval detachment (to screen the coast line and provide communications back to Edo) and set out to the west. Accompanied by his trusted advisor, Tetsuo, he gained passage through Aichi and Yamato. The entire force spent the the winter of 1401-1402 encamped on the Yamato plains. (See Hosokawa Japan)
Civilized tech 6.

HOSOKAWA JAPAN
Katsumoto
DIPLOMACY: None
Katsumoto had indeed planned to reject his fealty to the House of Ashikaga. He saved his resources for that preverbal rainy day; little did he realize how soon that day would come. Spring of 1402 started with reports of Ashikaga light forces patrolling the frontier with Yamato. Katsumoto called for his best commander, Shotoku, and ordered him to take 2000 infantry to investigate. Before Shotoku could muster his command, he was attacked by would be assassins. His retainers made quick work of the attackers but not before he was gravely wounded. With his best commander out of the action, Katsumoto chose to lead the force himself.

As he approached the frontier, Ashikaga forces were already in battle line waiting on him. Apparently, Yamana had prior knowledge of his arrival. (How could that be?) Could that mean there were light forces in the Ashikaga order of battle or worse, spys within his domain? Regardless, if this be destiny's calling, so be it. He quickly got his troops into line with the flanks refused to guard against cavalry forays.

The Ashikaga forces began their advance and soon the two lines were heavy engaged. The battle raged for hours, each side giving as good as they got. Yamana's aide fell wounded leading the fight on the right flank. Finally, the greater weight of numbers began to tell as the Hosokawa forces started to fall back towards Iwakuni. Only Katsumoto and his personal guard made it back to the city walls.

Yamana immediately ordered an aggressive siege of the city, bringing up his naval detachment to block the port. After the first assault on the walls, it was apparent that the walls could not be breached with the forces at hand. The Ashikaga forces withdrew away from the city and encamped in the interior of Shimane province. As Katsumoto looked over the walls at the retiring enemy, he realized fate had dealt him a harsh blow. His richest lands were held by Yamana and all he had left was his capitol and the island province of Shikoku.
Civilized tech 6.

THE GORYEO KINGDOM
Mog-Jong
DIPOLMACY: None
Mog-Jong orders a census be taken. He notes with some relief the withdraw of Ming influence from his northern border.
Civilized tech 6.

TIBET
Tsong-Kha-Pa
DIPLOMACY: Manipur (ch), Om'chu (ch), Tz'uk'an (ch)
The Holy Father set the example for his followers by establishing a church in Manipur; others built churches in Om'chu and Tz'uk'an. Monks flooded the Hindu region of Gtsang which received them remarkably well.
Civilized tech 6.

OCEANIC

Polynesia and Australia

AFRICA

Northern Africa

THE MARINID SULTANATE
Hammad bin Marin
DIPLOMACY: Zirid (f)
Hammad made improvements at home and barely survived an assassin's blade. Before the guards subdued the attacker, he yelled a claim of revenge for Nasir of Tunisia. Strange though, the accent was distinctly Iberian.
Civilized tech 6.

THE HAFSID CALIPHATE
Nasir ad Dawla Badis
DIPLOMACY: Tripolitania (fa)
Nasir initiates trade via the Med. and extends his control eastward to the Mamelukes.
Civilized tech 6.

Western Africa

THE MALI EMPIRE
Nasir ad Dawla Badis
DIPLOMACY: Songhai (f)
Nasir conducted slave raids into the desert regions to the northwest. After collecting his bounty, he moved to Songhai and gain their full admission into the Empire.
Civilized tech 6.

THE KINGDOM OF SONGHAY
Dia Kenken, King of Songhay
DIPLOMACY: None
Dia Kenken tries to prepare for a Mali assault.
Civilized tech 6.

THE KINGDOM OF KANEM
Boyoma, Mai of the Kanem
DIPLOMACY: Bilma (nt), Yanaka-Dhinga (nt)
Boyoma focused on improving his kingdom and extending his claims over the trade centers of the Sahara.
Civilized tech 6.

THE WOLOF KINGDOM OF TAKRUR
N'dyaye Sar, Burba of Dyolof
DIPLOMACY: Senegal (nt), Gambia (c), Galam (c)
The Burba gains the nominal allegiance of many of the local tribes. Trade is offered to the Mali Empire.
Civilized tech 5.

HAUSALAND
Shawata, Magajiya of Daura
DIPLOMACY: Nupe (t)
Shawata had his son, Shawasata, stand guard with the main army of the land. Shawasata had the good fortune of siring a son while guarding the realm. A census was ordered and Nupe was brought into the fold.
Civilized tech 6.

Eastern Africa

THE EAST AFRICAN TRADE CARTEL
Trader Al-Joe
DIPLOMACY: Djibuti (c), Zabid (nt), Basra (mf), Berbera (c), Banavasi (mf)
Trader Al-Joe, a Moslem convert from northern Italy, has brought the talents of the Italian Combines to the east coast of Africa. He initiated trade throughout the North Indian Ocean and with the interior tribes of the southeast coast of Africa. He also began the process to build a coastal empire of his own, centered on the Horn of Africa.
Civilized tech 6.

THE KINGDOM OF ABYSSINIA
Sibhat Zagwe
DIPLOMACY: Axum(nt), Gamo-Gofa (fa)
Sibhat, the Lion of Judah, tried to bring his kingdom into the 15th Century by establishing trading relations with the Arab merchants on the coast. He sent his trusted advisor south into the pagan jungle while he went north to recruit the Christian communities in Axum. Both efforts gained success.
Civilized tech 6.

Southern Africa

THE BAKONGO KINGDOM
Oduduma, King of Bakongo
DIPLOMACY: Matadi (nt), Mbundu (t)
Oduduma wished the tribes to the south would recognize his astute leadership so he sent his son and his leading general to convince them. He also ordered a census and an increase in the local learning centers.
Barbarian tech 3.
No cavalry.

THE KINGDOM OF THE MWANA-MUTAPHA
Dunbo Changamire, King of Rozwi
DILPOMACY: Kafue (t), Gorongo (nt)
Dunbo expanded his influence into the interior as well as to the eastern coast. It was there he met the Arabs of the East African Cartel. They immediately began bartering for "trinkets" from his homeland. What silly folks, these Arabs.
Barbarian tech 3. No cavalry.

THE NEW WORLD

North America

THE MISSISSIPPI EMPIRE
Powtuneep, Son of the Sun
DIPLOMACY: Erie (t)
The Sun King sent emissaries up river to Erie, ssuggesting their clans could benefit from his gentle guidance. They agreed enough to pay tribute to Powtuneep.
Pre-columbian. No cavalry.

THE MIWOK CONFEDERATION
Running Bear
DIPLOMACY: Patwin (t)
Running Bear sent his chief advisor north into the Patwin territory to gain their favor. He spent the rest of his energies building his family and bringing his oldest son into his majority. He sired a daughter the same year his son was declared heir and two years later he sired another daughter.
Pre-columbian. No cavalry.

THE CREEK DEATH CULT
Shukahosus
DIPLOMACY: Chatot (pt)
Shukahosus sent his warriors out to find enemy tribes; they did find some tribes willing to contribute (reluctantly) to the wealth of the Death Cult.
Pre-columbian. No cavalry.

THE PLAQUEMINE NATCHEZ
Mukalus
DIPLOMACY: Chitimacha (t)
Mukalus traveled down the Great Snake and met some old friends on the shore of the Delta Sea..
Pre-columbian. No cavalry.

Meso America

THE TEPANEC HEGEMONY
Xiu Cinteotl
DIPLOMACY: Yucatec (nt)
Xiu Cinteotl broad minor investments in his societal structures and institutions; he also sent emissaries to Yucatec.
Civilized tech 4. No cavalry.

THE ARAWAK OF THE ISLANDS
Ahabatey
DIPLOMACY: Colon (ea)
Ahabatey gains the alliegence of the entire island.
Pre-columbian. Can be Seafaring.

THE AZTECS
Matlaccoatzin
DIPLOMACY: Tontonac (ea), Culhua (nt)
Matlaccoatzin searched for allies, preparing for possible conflicts elsewhere. He also ordered the city of Cempotlan built in Totonac as part of the diplomatic negotiations.
Civilized tech 4. No cavalry.

THE MIXTEC ALLIANCE
Tezozomoc
DIPLOMACY: Popoluca (fa), Tepuztec (fa)
Tezozomoc improved the lot of the rural peasantry in Zapotec. He sent his personal advisor, Quetzal, to Tepuztec while he, himself went to Popoluca to gain new friends. Both met with great success, gaining feudal allies in both regions.
Civilized tech 4. No cavalry.

South America

CHIMU
Taycanamo
DIPLOMACY: Chimu (t)
Taycanamo began the effort to reclaim the ancient homeland.
Civilized tech 4. No cavalry.

THE MIGHTY INCAN EMPIRE
Tatam Yach
DIPLOMACY: Pucara (t), Chavin (nt), Nazca (nt)
Tatam ordered his lieutenants to venture forth and begin in many more subjects for him to rule. They were very successful, especially to the south in Pucara. It seemed many of the local lords were concerned with possible Chimu aggression. The Emperor was bless with a son in 1401 and a daughter in 1403.
Civilized tech 5. No cavalry.

ISI List for Turn 1

Created by Dave Salter