Lords of the Earth Campaign 31

Turn 8: Anno Domini 1429 - 1432

Industrial Stage One: The Dawn of the Modern Age

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

TURN 9 is due Friday, 21 July 2000.

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.

A lot of things will be on my plate this summer, mainly two daughters in select softball, which kills most weekends. For the summer - at least through the end of July, reality will raise it's ugly head and I'll shoot 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.

That brings us to the status and execution of NPN's and positions that fail to turn in orders. I will use my "best" judgment 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.

Some notes and observations from turn-6-8:

• Exploration is a major activity for nations during the period of this campaign. I have been far to easy with exploration results; therefore everyone who has moved beyond Western Europe map must demonstrate the time and resources to have explored what they now own before I will let them move any further. Those in Asia know the sea zones around their country up to one trade conduit away, either 3 or 4 sea zones). Movement or trade further away that the one conduit would have to be explored. Existing routes will still exist but you must expend the effort (and resources) to explore any routes that are beyond the one conduit limit.

• Furthermore, any exploration down one way arrows must have enough resources to make it back via a "legal" route. In other words, if you go down a one way arrow and stop your exploration due to attrition then you will not gain rutters for any part of the route because your explorers have not found a way back home. The expedition must complete the return trip for you to gain information from that expedition.
  
• Clarification: the current from the Azores to Western Europe is a two way arrow; there will be additional current(s) (one way) added from the New World to the Azores to reflect C. Columbus' trip.

Good Luck to all!

- Dave Salter

RULES ERRATA AND REMINDERS

There have been significant rule modifications over the last two months to the basic rules, the renaissance rules and the gm rules. I believe they are stabilizing and by turn 10 I will be looking to incorporate most, if not all these rules. If you want to get copies, contact Thomas Harlan as noted below. This is not an attempt to generate revenue for Thomas but an offer for you to get the new rules before they come into play and comment on them. Religious Orders and Merchant Combines will probably be effected the most.

Also, on turn 10, I will strictly enforce MSP basing, command and control rules and adverse impacts of random events. Get your house in order.

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.

NEW --- >>> Homeland colonization: any tech 6 nation can colonize their homeland to level 3 GPV, assuming its cultivated (and already 2 GPV) for a cost of 20 NFP and 20 GP; and tech 9 nation can colonize their homeland to level 4 GPV, assuming its cultivated (and already 3 GPV) for a cost of 25 NFP and 25 GP.

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 - no further than 1/2 their tech level in action points away from their border.

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.

Effective turn-6: the cost for combines to establish their organizational structure is as follows:

A clarification 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 to 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 [EST] (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 normally 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
James I
DIPLOMACY: None
James built a navy to screening the southern approaches to the English Channel. Despite to tension in the air, James found time to beautify Aberdeen.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF ENGLAND
Henry VI
DIPLOMACY: None
Henry VI, commissioned the first ships of the line for the Crown; the joined the Danish fleet in patrolling the North Sea. Henry offers the Roman Catholic provinces free entry back into the Kingdom - as yet there are no takers.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE DANISH EMPIRE
Margaret
DIPLOMACY: None
Queen Margaret calls up her reserve fleet and girds for war; war came but not in her (or her allies) direction. The emergency allows Margaret to strengthen the central authority of her government and declare her Crown as Imperial.
Renaissance tech 8.

Western Europe

Mercenaries

THE FRENCH EMPIRE
Jean, Emperor of France
DIPLOMACY: Auvergne (f), Normandy (a), Aquitaine (ea), Poitou (ea)
Jean consolidates his authority and declares the French Empire; diplomatic gains were made throughout the realm and the military redeployed for future actions. The discovery of ancient ruins give the French university system a boost.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE DUCHY OF BURGUNDY NNN
Philip the Good, Great Duke of the West, Defendor Pacis
DIPLOMACY: No effect
The Duke catches rumors of approaching trouble and raises over 8,000 heavy cavalry and some 15+ batteries of the best heavy artillery he could buy to face it. Surely that would be enough. (See Swiss) He even finds the resources to increase the size of Gent and surround the city with walls. (See Saxony)
Renaissance tech 8.

THE AVIGNON PAPACY
Guilbert
DIPLOMACY: Brabant (ca), Lisbon (ch), Portugal (ch), Salamaca (ch), Murcia (ch), Antwerpen (mn0, Flanders (mn), Navarre (mn), Latium (ch), Old Castile (ch), Pamplona (ca)
Rumors of back room plots finally did Clement in. He disappeared one evening with a note left in his chambers; none knew where is went and none could find him. Guilbert moved to assume the Seat . He quickly rescinded the Interdiction of Clement, hoping to minimize the rift between Rome and Prague. All provinces were to be returned to there secular rulers. [In game effects:  Prague and Rome are now Roman Catholics but are part of a Schism.].

Not only does Guilbert have the task of putting the Church back together, but now there is war between nations supporting Rome.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE SWISS CONFEDERATION
Edward III
DIPLOMACY: None
A messenger rushes into the Chambers and breathlessly tells a tale of Burgundian probes across the frontier; clearly the Duke intends to attack. Making notes to various embassies, Edward sends word to his allies to mobilize. (See Bavaria) He also issues the following:

A message to the Cantons from the Federal Council: <posted conspicuously at all town centers>

ATTENTION!

Free peasants and burghers of Uri, Schwyz, Unterwalden, Lucerne, Zurich, Glarus, Zug, Lombardy, Swabia, Bergamo, Freiburg & Bern: Gather your arms! You are called upon to live up to your vows as eidgenossen! The kingdoms of Europe sit poised on the brink of warfare. Loyal Catholics are being slaughtered for their faith. The Holy Church of Rome is an anvil that has broken many hammers, but until this crisis for leadership of our Church has passed, we must remain ever vigilant, lest some foreign king try to use the chaos to take our independence. Therefore, we brave brothers must gather up once more and march to the frontiers, to protect both the freedom of the Swiss people and that of our trusted allies. Our very survival is at stake!"

The Swiss respond with over 5,000 infantry and various siege and artillery units.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE DUCHY OF AUSTRIA
Albrecht V, Arch Duke of Austria, Holy Roman Emperor
DIPLOMACY: None
Albrecht minds his manners and protects the backs of his German allies.
Renaissance tech 8.

DUCHY OF BAVARIA
Jobst
DIPLOMACY: None
Jobst builds up his military just as he hears of trouble across the Rhine. Fearing the worse, he recalls William and sends him west to aid the Swiss. Williams leaves with with 4,000 cavalry, 2,000 infantry, supported by to batteries. William arrives in Switzerland and is pleased to see contingents from Venice and Milan arriving [over 20 batteries of Venetian artillery and 6,500 infantry and cavalry from Milan]. There was also news that the Saxons and Brandenburgers were on the march. When Giuseppe Fravalo of Milan arrives, he gathers each contingent's general officers and briefs them on the upcoming campaign.

In the spring of 1430, all was ready. There entire allied army crossed the Swiss border in to Burgundy, heading straight for Dijon. Some 40 miles from the Capitol, Fravalo found the Burgundians arrayed in front of him, blocking his route to the city. He was surprised by the weight of the Burgundian horse; he had expected to have an advantage in this area. His artillery, still the best in Europe, outnumbered the Duke's by 2:1 and his infantry outnumbered theirs by over 4:1.

As long as he could keep the Burgundian heavy horse at bay, the field would be his. Both sides arrayed their infantry in the center and evenly split their cavalry. After a sharp artillery duel, both lines closed together. The Swiss pike guarding the flanks of the main infantry assault. As expected, the heavy cavalry sortied against the flanks of the infantry but were unable to break the Swiss lines. As they were milling about in disarray, the Venetian cannon let loose upon them. Unable to reorganize they started to withdraw; it was at this moment the Bavarian horse struck and the Burgundians broke as one. Without cavalry support, the cannon and infantry were quickly overwhelmed.

Remnants fled to the city; this is when the greatest blow was struck against the Duke. His trusted general, Enguerrand fell in the pursuit and Philip was captured. With the Duke in Swiss hands Burgundian will to fight crumbled. With news of the Saxon invasion in the north, all Burgundian authority collapsed. Cities and provinces surrendered instead of facing overwhelming odds without an army to come to their aid.
Renaissance tech 8.

DUCHY OF SAXONY
Rupert III
DIPLOMACY: None
Rupert receives the Swiss messenger with some excitement; the gambit seems to have worked - although the Duke also appeared to know what events were unfolding. Joining with his Brandenburg allies, he launched his invasion of Hainaut at the same time the Southerners were attacking Burgundy. By the time Dijon had fallen, Luxembourg was in Saxon hands. The other northern provinces fell into his hands, virtually without a fight - the merchants of Gent where not interested in seeing their investments pounded by Brandenburg cannon.
Renaissance tech 8.

HANSEATIC LEAGUE
Klaus Stortebecker
DIPLOMACY: Iberian mercs (broker), Stockholm (ma), Vaasa (nt), Novgorod (ma), Evoro (ma), Palma (ma), Barcelona (ma), Palaermo (ma), Kiev (ci), Buda (ma), Pest (ma)
The League expanded its Med holdings and reached into Eastern Europe. Major contracts were sign with Aragon and Poland while the League gain the brokerage rights to the Iberian merenaries. A major shipment of grain was sent to Poland, apparently to free up framers to work on the Grand Duke's special projects.
Renaissance tech 8.

DUCHY OF BRANDENBURG
Wilhelm I, Elector of Brandenburg
DIPLOMACY: None
The Elector proclaims a national emergency as news of Burgundy's perfidy reaches Berlin. Under Wilhelm's direction, with a call for mass conscription, the people quickly mobilize to help ward off the advances of the Snake of the Lowlands. Wilhelm also hires Heinrich and his army of mercenaries for a remarkably handsome sum. Wilhelm hands over the command, of the Saxony bound contingent, reinforced with the hired mercenaries under over to his brother Georg with exhortations to keep the Brandenburg eagle flying high and to learn much from the Saxon generals. Georg is to move quickly and strike hard. The Elector keeps the rest of his army on alert for any transgression against the German Alliance; otherwise he builds public works and rules his realm with a firm hand and settles in with his wife to enjoy the Electors Great Bed. After all, with the news of the Burgundian collapse, there was much to celebrate.
Renaissance tech 8.

DUCHY OF BOHEMIA
Stavot
DIPLOMACY: None
The Duke, bristling at the trouble with Alsace, sends in the army to bring them back under the tent. Resistance was light and the region was pacified - of course resentments remain and the region is still simmering. [The region did not go friendly as per normally civil war rules - this is a religious matter, not a secular conflict.]
Renaissance tech 8.

HUSSITES - Prague Papacy
Jan Hus - Markus, Servant of the Lord
DIPLOMACY: Meissen (ch), Silesia (ch), Moravia (ch)
Jan Hus had heard of the new Roman Catholic Pope's rise, but he was uncertain as to any change in Papal intentions. He gathered his forces and waited to see what would happen. He did manage to spread his influence towards the German states.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF HUNGARY
Sigmund, King of Hungary
DIPLOMACY: None
Sigmund pondered upon the various political, religious, and economic activities which were happening throughout the Eastern part of Europe. Hopefully peace would prevail and news from Bochnia and the Byzantine empire so far was excellent. If things went well then Hungary would be expanded with the returned lands of Banat and the new lands of the Lower Danube. This was going to put pressure on the government however so Sigmund wanted to make sure and oversee the transition period himself.

However, he received word that things didn't go well up north; only time would tell if the trouble would resolve itself or spill over into Hungary.
Renaissance tech 8.

Iberian Peninsula

Mercenaries

THE KINGDOM OF CASTILE
Enrique III
DIPLOMACY: Takrur nation (ea), Leon (f)
Enrique continues continues his courtship of Takrur and his emissaries bring that nation's core into the Roman Catholic camp. Progress is made in the outer regions of Takrur.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF ARAGON
Pedro V
DIPLOMACY: Niete (nt), Gagnoa (nt), Akan (ne), Socotra (nt)
Petro sent colonists to the Ghebel-Gharib and an expedition to the Gulf of Oman. He also courted the West African coastal tribes, his efforts failed only when the Akan feared Portugal more than Aragon. Barcelona expanded a level and gained a port fortress. A major trade deal was signed with the Hansa.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF PORTUGAL
Edward I
DIPLOMACY: Socotra (nt), Azores (t)
Edward recalls his widely scatter forces back to Lisbon. An expedition is sent westward, looking for the famed Atlantis; what they find is the Azores. Edward is saddened by the sudden death of his son and heir, Edward II. Henry is now heir apparent.
Renaissance tech 8.

Southern Europe

Mercenaries

THE DUCHY OF MILAN
Doria
DIPLOMACY: None
Doria sends his son, under the tutelage of Giuseppe Fravalo to honor the Swiss call to arms. (See Bavaria) Doria hopes his son returns home soon, he does not feel well.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE REPUBLIC OF VENICE
Galeazzo, Doge of Venice
DIPLOMACY: Knossos (some effect)
The Doge also honors his treaty obligations, sending Enrico with the bulk of the Venetian artillery. He also continued his efforts in Morea and on Crete. News from Burgundy was very well received in Venice.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF NAPLES
Isralo, Prince of Salerno
DIPLOMACY: None
Isralo, the Old Man of Europe, expands Naples again. The work continues to convert the Orthodox in Greece to Roman Catholicism. Isralo builds builds a port fortress in Calabria and prepares for war.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE REPUBLIC OF FLORENCE
Cosimo de' Medici
DIPLOMACY:
Cosimo makes final preparations for the Catholic onslaught; his is not the only one relieved when it never shows up. His daughter Maria is raised as a Officer of the Republic.
Renaissance tech 8.

GENOESE TRADE COMBINE
Grimaldi
DIPLOMACY: Petra (un), Rome (bo), Campania (bo), Tuscany (mf), Orsha (mf), Novgorod (mf), Alexandria (ci)
Grimaldi makes the deal of his life as he acquires the major routes of the Arab trade cartel. He also strengthens his base in Italy and extends his reach as far north as Novgorod. To make this effort viable, he invests in the Polish canal project.
Renaissance tech 8.

Eastern Europe

Mercenaries

THE KINGDOM OF POLAND AND LITHUANIA
Dobry, Duke of Lithuania and King of Poland
DIPLOMACY: Bochnia, (fa), Kauyavia (pt)
Casimir, realizing he might have been a little heavy handed in the north, withdrew his garrisons as long as the locals agreed to pay tribute. He continued his projects in the East and paid the Golden Horde for regions that give him direct access to the Black Sea.

He gained submission from Boleslav and a renewed pledge of fealty. Gathering his army, including contingents from his vast realm, he marched toward Bochnia to accept the oath of fealty and to place his loyal servant, Count Perogie, as Regent of that land. As he conducted a route march through Poland, his advanced guard escorted a representative from Boleslav's court. That night they dined and talked of the coming meeting between Boleslav and Casimir; toward midnight, the representative bade his retirement for the evening and left in the direction of the Count's quarters.

The next morning, scouts raised the alarm, as fast columns of troops were approaching from all sides. The feudal allies from Goryn, Bialoweza and Moldavia were on flank security and were the first to meet this threat. (See Bochnia)
Renaissance tech 8.

DUCHY OF BOCHNIA
Vaclav, Duke of Bochnia, Vassal of Poland
DIPLOMACY: fa to Poland
To much the surprise of Europe, Boleslav issued the following statement,

To The Cathloic Fatih of Europe,

Bochnia will not yield to the heretic King in Poland. We do regret what we have to do, but Casimir Jagielo, Duke of Lithuania and King of Poland acts like a man who has been possessed by the devil himself. That devil being Jan Hus. We here by affirm our allegiance to the Church and the Holy father in Rome. The King of Poland's refusal to accept the true guidance of Church and the Holy Father will be our battle cry to the end. We will do what we must to rid Europe of this heretic. We pray to the Lord God to be merciful on our soul and to guide us in during these troubled times.
Respectfully,

Duke Boleslav, Duke of Bochnia

Boleslav sent his best agents forwarded to meet Casimir as he gathered his army for the coming "meeting" with the Poles. Two hours before dawn on 3 August, 1429, his agents had returned, there deed accomplished. Boleslav sent out his runners with the orders of the day - Attack!

Under his command was some 12,000 levys of infantry and some 3,000 light cavalry. He also had several batteries of cannon and his own house troops. These forces quickly crashed through the surprised screening forces and forced their way to the main Polish encampment. Surprise was Boleslav's only hope and he had achieved complete surprise. Had Casimir not brought his Elite Guard, all would have been lost.

However, these were the best troops in Eastern Europe and they quickly overcame their initial surprised and rallied to Casimir's compound. As Casimir rallied his troops, he saw the Queen charge into the fray with her own personal guard. The ferocity of the attack gave the remainder of the Poles time to regroup and launch their own counter strokes.

As the tide of battle turned, Casimir sighted his adversary and surged forward to take matters into his own hands - for he feared the worse for his wife and Queen. Behind him were 2,000 knights who swept all before them. Casimir met Boleslav as he tried to rally his faltering infantry; he turned just in time to see the blow that would leave him slain on the field. With his death and the capture of his brother, the Bochnian forces dissolved before the power of the Polish counterattack.

What a price for victory and peace, the feudal allies were all but destroyed, their leaders dead; the Queen, slain, giving her life to give the Polish knights a chance to regroup. It was a terrible day for Poland. In the end, the Bochnian forces were completed routed and Casimir appointed a trusted lord to run the duchy with a strong hand. Casimir would not last the year in his grief; his son Dobry led the burial ceremony for his father and vowed to strengthen the authority of the Crown.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE EASTERN ORTHODOX PATRIARCHY
Nektarty, Patriarch of Kiev
DIPLOMACY: Orsha (ch), Moscow (ch)
Nektary was a wary man; the plight of the Orthodox Church was bleak. He saw the road ahead was clear and unswerving. He must lead the Church and take a leading role in calming the chaos in Europe.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE TEUTONIC KNIGHTS
Otto von Stein, Grand Master
DIPLOMACY: None
Conrad waits for the other shoe to drop, but it never falls - at least on Hussite lands. He organizes for war but is relieved not to have to go to war. After standing watch, trying to keep the long night from falling, Conrad's old wounds finally catch up to him. He dies in 1432 and a Brandenburger, Otto von Stein assumes the role of Grand Master.

Conrad was not happy with news that all Teutonic sites in Catholic regions were destroyed except for those in Prussia where the Polish army holds sway.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE REPUBLIC OF NOVGOROD
Pyotr
DIPLOMACY: None
Alexander plans for the future, but he's not in it. After leading his nation for almost 50 years, the strain finally catches up to him. His son Pyotr takes the reigns of power and expands Novgorod, shifting his trade ships to reduce traffic in the capitol.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE PRINCIPALITY OF MOSCOW
Basil II
DIPLOMACY: None
Basil II improves the lot of his subject in and around Moscovy; otherwise he invests and saves for the future.
Civilized tech 7.

THE KHANATE OF THE GOLDEN HORDE
Jamuka, Khakhan of the Golden Horde, Darighachi of Crimea, Gurkhan of the Kipchak, Beloved of Yahweh
STARTS WITH: None
Toktamish watched the polo match with little enthusiasm. While the contestants battled for the sheepshead with gusto, few displayed any real skill. When the sun was high, he had seen enough. Rising from his couch, he roared, "Stop! You disgust me. Be here tomorrow, with your arms." The aging Khakhan stalked off, leaving all to tremble and wonder at his outburst. The following day he began their retraining.

Though a wasted land bereft of people, Mordva is still listed in the roll of Khanate provinces. The Khakhan is a proud man, and claims the forests, rivers, and torched hamlets for his own. He assigns Jakob Timur-tugh as darighachi, who must attempt to maintain order and report on events in the region of Mordva.

On a similar theme of lands and peoples, Toktamish announces that Kingdom of Poland-Lithuania has agreed to pay the Khanate a large tribute for 16 years. In exchange, the Khakhan will accede to the wishes of his subjects in Atelzuko and Pechneg to join with their co-religionists. Given the current state of crisis in Europe, the Khakhan is not exactly sure who those might be .

Nevertheless, he is quite happy to receive the first payment of gold coin of good weight, sealed in an iron-bound chest and accompanied by a squadron of Polish hussars. Well-pleased, Toktamish gives their captain one of his own hunting eagles, and each of them a Genoese ducat, provisions, and an evening in the "hospitality tent." He is heard to say on their departure, "Such nice young men."

The Khakhan retires to his quarters, knowing he has laid a solid foundation for his nation to shine of the world stage. These were his last thoughts as God claimed His rights over His new servant. His son sees to his burial and for this purpose a kurgan is built. Later, Jamuka is confirmed as the new Khakhan of the Golden Horde.
Nomadic - tech 6.

THE PRINCIPALITY OF SERBIA
Stephen Lazarevich
DIPLOMACY: Attica (ea), Athens (ea)
Stephen involves himself with the Greek peace efforts, granting Thracian rights to Macedonia and Thessalonki. The on again off again relationship with Athens was back on again and Belgrade saw its population increase.
Civilized tech 7.

THE THRACIAN REPUBLIC
Gregory, First of Thrace, Savior of the East
DIPLOMACY: None
Gregory reached an agreement with his former masters; they would share, for now, control of Constantinople and Cilicia, while the Greeks started the evacuation of Adana and Trebizond. Serbia also agreed to share control of Macedonia and Thessaloniki.
Renaissance tech 8.

ASIA

The Middle East

Mercenaries

THE OTTOMAN SULTANATE
Sulieman, Shield of Christ and Emperor of the Ottomans
DIPLOMACY: Bithnia (a), Isuaria (ea), Amasya (f)
Sulieman, tiring of war, made peace with the Byznatines (The Thracian Republic); he gained Constantinople and Cilicia in exchange for Bulgaria. Hungary also got Wallachia and Ialomita. Bithnia became full allies and the city of Amasya wan fully incorporated into the Sultanate. The Sultan invested heavily in the future, knowing that in that future lay unknown dangers and opportunities.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KNIGHTS OF ST. JOHNS
Antonio Fluvuan, Grand Master
DIPLOMACY: Athens (rab), Paphos (rch)
The Grand Master improved the Order's site in Athens and established a small church in Paphos; he then ventured to the Levant, trying to establish sites in these Infidel lands. To no avail, he died of the effort in 1431. The Order went on alert throughout their holdings. The Order seeks to build hospitals throughout the Med in an effort to help those in need, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE TIMURID EMIRATE
Nabil Faisal
DIPLOMACY: Petra (ea), Baghdad (ea), Levant (ea)
Nabil moves to ensure the safety of all pilgrims to the Levant; he also moves to bounce out all further Genoese expansion into his realm. Economic alliances were made with Petra, Baghdad and the Levant.
Civilized - tech 7.

EMIRATE OF RUM
Hamir
DIPLOMACY: Fars (f), Black Sheep (Joins Rum)
Hamir completed the unification with Usuf while securing his southern frontier in Fars. Trade was initiated with Gujerat as Rum tries to enter the world stage.
Civilized tech 7.

THE BLACK SHEEP TURKOMANS
Kara Usuf
DIPLOMACY: Joins the Emirate of Rum
Usuf listens with interest to the offers of Rum.
Nomad tech 6.

Central Asia

THE SAFAVID SULTANATE
Haidar
DIPLOMACY: Tadzik (t), Tabaristan (ea), Ferghana (f), Kyzl-Kum (nt), Scythia (nt)
Haidar extends his sphere to the north in order to establish trade with the Cheibanids. He also establishes trade with the Golden Horde and Moscow through the port city of Shah Tepe in Tabaristan.
Civilized 6.

THE CHEIBANID KHANATE
Toghrul
DIPLOMACY: None
The Khan, hoping to change the course of his nation's history, cultivated more of the Otrar steppe. He was seen smiling a knowing smile, thinking of the future greatness of his line.
Nomadic tech 6.

India

Mercenaries

THE SULTANATE OF DELHI
Khalamar
DIPLOMACY: Vatsa (nt)
The Sultan re-energizes his efforts in Vatsa and they renew their ties to Delhi. The leaders of Kaunaj have broken ties with Delhi as a result of a Jaunpur blockade.
Civilized tech 6.

THE SULTANATE OF GUJERAT
Mahmud Shah
DIPLOMACY: Sind (a), Edrosia (f), Anhivarta (a)
The Shah brings the Word of Allah to the pagans of Surashtra and Anhivarta, making a larger Sunni majority. New allies are found in the Sind and Anhivarta. Edrosia becomes fully integrated into the Sultanate. Trade is established, overland, to Orissa.
Civilized tech 7.

THE SULTANATE OF JAUNPUR
Begarha
DIPLOMACY: Vatsa (ne)
The Sultan continued his investment in improving the lives of the peasants of the region and tries to convert the Hindus of Chandela. Jaunpur and Delhi continue their contest of the hearts and minds of the Hindus of Vatsa; Delhi wins round three. The Sultan orders the blockade of Kaunaj, which is ineffective but enough for that city to go neutral.
Civilized tech 7.

THE SULTANATE OF BENGAL
Vanje
DIPLOMACY: Assam (a)
Vanje continued his father's work of developing ties with his Hindu regions and showing them the enlightened way of Allah; the majority in Assam now bow to Mecca. Tamralipti increased a level and some merchant shipping was delivered to the cartel. His sister married Lord Midja, who became a Prince of the Realm. Vanje eyes Pegu's relationship with Burma with apprehension.
Civilized tech 7.

THE HINDU KINGDOM OF ORISSA
Sangramaraja
DIPLOMACY: Malabar (ne)
Sangramaraja, tiring of living in the shadow of his southern neighbor, decides to gather his forces (some 9,000 infantry, 4,000 cavalry and 1,000 siege troops) and launches them south along the coastal provinces. Moving quickly through Madurai, his generals miss the newly built Cholan port of Cuddalore. After consolidating his hold on that region, Orissan troops move into Chola itself and gather before Tanjore. Facing them were the rather substantial walls of Tanjore and about 3,000 infantry and 3,000 cavalry.

The initial attack proved to be a mixed success; both sides lost about the same, which bode well for the invaders, however both Orissan leaders were wounded in the attack and the army's morale and will faltered. The Orissans gathered their fallen and withdrew back to Madurai. Round One to Orissa in a close decision.
Civilized tech 7.

THE SULTANATE OF MALWA
Ala-ud-din
DIPLOMACY: Avanti (ea)
Ala-ud-din concentrates on the internal administration of his nation and converting the Hindu masses.
Civilized tech 6.

THE FIST OF ALLAH
Firuz Shah
DIPLOMACY: None
Firuz Shah met with representatives of several key religious centers, which apparently had a significant impact on his life - he quickly reorganizes his nation into a religious order for the protection and spread of Islam.
Civilized tech 7.

THE BHAKTI BRAHMO SAMAJ
Ramanada
DIPLOMACY: Pandya (ca), Perak (ch), Malacca (ch)
Ramanada devoted himself to spreading his influence and preparing for future struggles. He did not anticipate those future struggles would be Hindu versus Hindu.
Civilized tech 6.

THE VIJAYANGAR EMPIRE
Samarajya
DIPLOMACY: Karnata (f), Gangas (ea), Sri Lanka (t), Seylan (f)
The new King returned to Tanjore and took control. He buried his noble father amidst great ceremony. Samarajya works to continue the dreams of his father and sends his Lts. to secure the diplomatic and trade gains that his father had championed. The welfare of the citizens of Tanjore is greatly improved with the addition of many new public works: parks, sewers, aqueducts, streets, etc. Emissaries are sent to the new regime in Orissa, talks continued with Bengal and trade vessels searched for new markets both east and west. The sparkling new port city of Cuddalore is built in Madurai. Then the storm hit. (see Orissa)
Civilized tech 7.

Indochina and Indonesia

THE BURMAN KINGDOM OF AVA
Minhkaung
DIPLOMACY: (fa) to Pegu
Minhkaung appeared ready to pay tribute to Pegu, but at the last minute, changed his mind; he also built a port city (Pyu) in Arakan.
Civilized tech 6.

THE MON KINGDOM OF PEGU
Razadraya
DIPLOMACY: Burma (fa)
Razadraya sent his entire leadership to court Burma, to no lasting effect. Razadraya continued the cultivation project in Kayah while other projects were put on hold due to a lack of resources.
Civilized tech 6.

THE KINGDOM OF CHAMPA
Naraj Sri Harivaraja
DIPLOMACY: None
Naraj grieved over the sudden death of his father, followed quickly by his younger brother, but he vowed to carry out his father's goal of peace and prosperity. Gold was sent to the Thai and free passage remained open to Angkor. He ordered the port city of Mekong constructed in Phan Rang to help facilitate trade to the south. Explorers were sent to the northeast to discover routes away from Ming coastal waters.
Civilized tech 6.

THE THAI KINGDOM OF AYUTHIA
Chulongaket, King of the Thai, Guardian of Angkor
DIPLOMACY: Nam Pung (f)
Chulongaket gives General Kumquat the Order of the Golden Cobra for his long and faithful efforts in diplomacy and administration of the city of Angkor; the excitement was more than his old heart could take - he died in the fall of 1429. The King remains concerned by the sudden expansion of our northern neighbor. Pegu's claim to the Andaman Islands is not recognized by Ayuthia. Chulongaket relaxes his close watch of Champa, as the tensions between the countries ease with the negotiated settlement over Angkor and Khemer. Of course, Khemer gold helped to ease those tensions, also.
Civilized tech 6.

THE MAJAPAHIT KINGDOM OF JAVA
Tadarava, Nirguna, King of Java
DIPLOMACY: Moluccas (ea), Sarawak (t), Bali (f)
Tadarava strengthened his hold on Indonesia, developing closer ties to the Moluccas and Sarawak. The intense efforts to court Bali paid off. Investments were made in education and other cultural institutions. The Jambian feudal lord passed away but his family continues to honor the oath bond.
Civilized tech 6.

East Asia

Mercenaries

THE EMPIRE OF THE GREAT KHAN
Henghis Khan
DIPLOMACY: Karakocho (f), Sikhote (nt)
The Khan ordered more cultivation of the Mongol homeland, while projects continue unabated in Angarland, Yensey, and Beryat. Slave raids shifted back to the east, while the coastal province of Sikhote bowed to the Khan. The Khan's horse threw him while crossing a frozen lake in the winter of 1430; both rider and horse broke through the ice. The Khan never recovered. His son was chosen to lead the tribes into a bright future.
Civilized tech 6.

MING EMPIRE OF CHINA
Jingtai
DIPLOMACY: Taiwan (nt), Funiu (ea), Lu'an (ea), Kweichou (a), Nan Chao (f), Shan'si (a), Tangchou (f), Taiping (a), Chekiang (f)
Yung Lo dedicated his remaining days seeing to the consolidation of Ming influence throughout China; he also saw to the growing infrastructure to improve the lives of the people of his realm. His work nearly completed, he died in his sleep, content with the knowledge that his bloodline was strong. Jingtai, who was in Nan Chao with his new bride, hurried back to the capitol to seize to the reigns of power.
Civilized tech 7.

TEIKOKU NIPPON
Yamana Goto, Emperor of Japan
DIPLOMACY: Toyama (ea), Kumamoto (f), Akita (ea)
With the death of Yamana, what Yamana has done in fact, his son declares before all of Japan - petty strife is no more, all serve Imperial Japan. A string of Imperial cities are constructed from the far north (Hirosaka in Akita) to the center (Kanazawa in Toyama) to the far south (Mizazaki in Kagoshima and Matsuzama in Shikoku).
Civilized tech 7.

THE GORYEO KINGDOM
Hong-Suk
DIPLOMACY: None
Mog-Jong expanded the farm producing land of his homeland but he didn't live to see the completion of the project; his son, Hong-Suk takes the helm, uneventfully.
Civilized tech 6.

TIBET
Tsong-Kha-Pa
DIPLOMACY: Nan Chao (ab), Tai'li (ab), Chiennan (ca), Chinling (ch), Gt'sang (ea)
The Holy Father Tsong takes some time to write of his recent journeys, sometimes drifting to a distant past in another world.... He then returns to Gt'sang to strengthen ties there. Abbeys are established in Nan Chao and its city of Tai'li, while priests continue to strengthen Yellow-Hat influence in the Red basin, building a cathedral in Chiennan and starting a church in Chinling.
Civilized tech 6.

OCEANIC

Polynesia and Australia

AFRICA

Northern Africa

THE MARINID Khalifate
Khalifah Abu Said Othman, Amir Al-Mu'mineen (Leader of the Believers)
DIPLOMACY: Mecca (ca), Damascus (mn). Baghdad (ab), Syria (ab), terhazza (ab), Idjil (ab), Aleppo (ab)
Abu Said Othman continues to strengthen his authority to the east and now has started to spread his authority to the south. Before leaving Alexandria, he made the following speech to his followers:

Alexandrian Speech, 1425

Praise to Allâh, Lord of the Universe. The Compassionate, the Merciful, Master of the Day of Judgment. You alone do we serve; from you alone do we seek help. Lead us along the Straight Path, the path of those who experience the shower of your grace, not of those who have merited your anger or those who have gone astray. We testify that there is nothing divine or worthy of being worshipped except for Almighty Allâh - the Mighty and the Sublime - and that Muhammad is His Prophet. In Arabic the word "Allâh” refers to the same God as the One worshipped by Catholic, Hussite, and Orthodox Christians, and by the Jews. It is the same word that Arabic-speaking Christians and Jews use for God. People, worship your Lord who created you and those who lived before you, so that you may become pious. Worship Allâh who has rendered the earth as a floor for you and the sky as a dome for you and has sent water down from the sky to produce fruits for your sustenance. Do not knowingly set up anything as an equal to Allâh.

See what calamity the false doctrines of the Christians have brought upon them. They fracture into more and more pieces, arguing over points made by Man and ignoring the Law laid out by Allâh. Millions are doomed to peril in this life and Punishment in the Next! It is as a rain storm with darkness, thunder, and lightning approaching. They cover their ears for fear of thunder and death. Allâh encompasses those who deny His words. The lightning almost takes away their vision. When the lightning brightens their surroundings, they walk and when it is dark, they stand still. Had Allâh wanted, He could have taken away their hearing and their vision. Allâh has power over all things. Among the Children of Ibrâhim only the Mu'mineen of the Muslim Ummah truly follow the tenants of Pure Monotheism, in Islam, in Submission to Allâh. Catholics who pray to the Virgin Mary will staunchly deny that they are "worshipping" her. They instead call it "adoration" or some other watered-down term. However, from an Islamic point of view, what is worship if not this? How can someone who believes in Almighty Allâh follow man-made laws instead of Allâh 's Law, without admitting that they've begun worshipping other than Allâh? Do they know better than Allâh?

Without addressing the issue that Christians commonly violate the unambiguous commandment not to even "make" representations of anything that is in the "heavens above or on the earth beneath", the Taurat not only teaches that worshipping idols is prohibited, but also that Almighty Allâh is eternally distinct from His creation and thus nothing in His creation can represent Him. To believe otherwise is to be a de facto idol worshipper - even if one claims belief in one, and only one, "True God". In Exodus and Deuteronomy, Almighty God - who is a "Jealous God" - makes it perfectly clear that He is distinct from His creation. By giving such clear and merciful guidance to human beings, Allâh is establishing a universal and eternal Truth for the benefit of mankind. This eternal Truth is the bedrock of religious guidance, since once people begin to believe that Almighty Allâh mixes with or can be represented by His creation, they can be duped into believing almost anything. Once someone accepts that Allâh has become "incarnate" in His creation, or that someone or something is a "manifestation" - and thus representation - of Him, the floodgates are open and "Truth" becomes a matter of subjective guesswork. Once the first and most basic concept is violated - regardless of how complicated and sophisticated the rationale for it might be - it is very easy to fall further and further away from the Eternal Truth of Pure Monotheism. In the final analysis, it is not a question of whether Allâh is capable of becoming a man, but rather a question of whether one bases their beliefs about Allâh on clear, unambiguous and authentic guidance. Once it is left up to the human mind to decide what Almighty Allâh can and cannot do, the stage is set for misguidance to take root. Human speculation about Allâh only ends up leading to misguidance and despair, since no clear conclusions can ever be reached. Islam clearly teaches that mankind should only say about Allâh what He has said about Himself. This means all of our ideas about Allâh must be based on Revelation - not human speculation. In short, the final prophet of Islam - Muhammad - was sent by Almighty Allâh to preach the same Pure Monotheism that was practiced by Noah, Abraham, Moses, David and Jesus - peace be upon them all. This Pure Monotheism means not only believing that there is only One Ilâh in existence, Allâh, but realizing that He is transcendent above His creation and that all worship is due to Him alone.

Naturally, when Allâh sends a revelation to mankind through a prophet, He is going to send it in a language that the people who receive it can understand and relate to. Almighty Allâh makes this clear in the Qur'an, when He states: "Never did We send a Messenger except to teach in the language of his own people in order to make things clear to them." To say that Muslims worship a different "God" because they say "Allâh" is just as illogical as saying that French people worship another God because they use the word "Dieu", that Spanish-speaking people worship a different God because they say "Dios" or that the Hebrews worshipped a different God because they sometimes call Him "Yahweh". Certainly, reasoning like this is quite ridiculous! It should also be mentioned, that claiming that any one language uses the only the correct word for God is tantamount to denying the universality of God's message to mankind, which was to all nations, tribes and people through various prophets who spoke different languages.

The Ultimate Truth of Islam stands on solid ground and its unshakable belief in the Unity of Allâh is above reproach. All are free to follow it, one must only shake himself free of false teachings and declare his faith in All Mighty Allâh, the One True Ilâh. "Invite all to the way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: For Allâh knoweth best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance." Let all know that the Muslim Ummah is one with the Will of Allâh, willing to help Any who beg Aid, Strong against the Oppressors, United in Peace against the forces of War and Suffering, in Everlasting Brotherhood, Love, and Unity. Let the Muslims of every nation and each one of them look to their Muslim Amirs and Imams as living examples of the Straight Path to Allâh, the Unerring Faith of Pure Monotheism, as revealed in the Qur’an and laid out in Sunnah, Hadith and Sharia. Go now, each of you, and become an example yourself, to your family, friends and neighbors, filled with Love and united in worship of Allâh, the One True Ilâh!

Imam Rashid Al-Azim forged stronger bonds with the family of Beni Shayba, keepers of the holders of its golden key. The mataf, the area around the area, was renovated for the Khalifah's arrival.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE HAFSID CALIPHATE
Nasir ad Dawla Badis
DIPLOMACY: Zirid (ea), Merrakesh (f), Morroco (f)
Nasir sends his emissaries to consolidate his holdings and builds a port city (Djerba) in the waste lands of Ad'Daffah. A rebirth in learning has sparked a marked improvement in Hafsid culture.
Renaissance tech 8.

Western Africa

THE MALI EMPIRE OF SONGHAY
Nasir ad Dawla Badis
DIPLOMACY: Terhazza (t)
Nasir decides to develop relationships with the Hausa and issues the following decree:

PEACE DECREE, 1429

"The believers of the Mali shall recognize Peace among those who also share a desire for peace and are willing to discuss cooperation. The Hausa, although at first quiet, have made efforts to open a good-natured line of contact and thus, showing the Forgiveness inherent in the ways of Islam, The Empire shall accept an end to hostilities should the Hausa continue open discussion and acceptance to the Islamic Faith. The future shall demonstrate Allah’s good grace for those loyal to His causes and those worthy of trust."

--- Naseem, Prince of Mali, Uniter of Peoples, Hand of Islam

He orders expanded cultivation of his homeland and gains Terhazza to tributary status; the cities of Goa and Timbuctu expand also. He orders a portion of his military to be retrained.
Civilized tech 6.

THE KINGDOM OF KANEM
Boyoma, Mai of the Kanem
DIPLOMACY: Kam (nt), Kafin (ea)
Boyoma continued to make progress with the tribes to the south. He is looking to trade with Mali; only two options here - one is war the other is through the desert..
Civilized tech 6.

THE WOLOF KINGDOM OF TAKRUR
N'dyaye Sar'te, Burba of Dyolof
DIPLOMACY: None
The Burba welcomes all the attention from the Iberians. Someone tried to start some nasty rumors about Christians to the locals - who didn't buy it, they had heard these stories before from similar sources.
Civilized tech 6.

HAUSALAND
Shawasata, Magajiya of Daura
DIPLOMACY: Kanuri (ea)
Shawasata was willing to listen to the Mali appeal, choosing to withhold judgment until actions reflected words.
Civilized tech 6.

Eastern Africa

ISLAMIC TRADE CARTEL
Bob, the Spectacular
DIPLOMACY: None
Big Bob got religion and sold his trade routes to Genoa; he then headed east to join the new Islamic religious order forming in Malabar.
Renaissance tech 8.

THE KINGDOM OF ABYSSINIA
Mathias
DIPLOMACY: Adal (c), Aden (c), Asir (c), Aswan (nt), Yemen (t), Saukin (nt), Luxor (ea)
Mathias gathers some troops and ensures the deal between Genoa and the Cartel goes as planned. He also expands his reach throughout the area and he builds a port city (Nahar) in Yemen. His government is starting to feel the strain of holding such a vast realm.
Civilized tech 7.

Southern Africa

THE BAKONGO KINGDOM
Oduduma, King of Bakongo
DIPLOMACY: Teke (ea)
Oduduma consolidates his influence with the Teke.
Barbarian tech 3.
No cavalry.

THE KINGDOM OF THE MWANA-MUTAPHA
Dunbo Changamire, King of Rozwi
DILPOMACY: Zambia (ea)
Dunbo gains closer ties with Zambia.
Civilized tech 4. No cavalry.

THE NEW WORLD

North America

THE MISSISSIPPI EMPIRE
Noktesunah, Son of the Sun
DIPLOMACY: Ayoel (f), Chickasaw colonized to (0/6), Chitimacha (a), Mejcalero (nt)
The Sun King's heir and brother, Kulkulkam is sent out to explore the great rivers leading out from the Empire, while another great warrior is sent south to the southern sea - neither are ever heard from again. The region of Chickasaw is colonized. and the life of most villagers improves a little. Ties are strengthened to the southerners.

Pre-Columbian. No cavalry.

THE CREEK DEATH CULT
Shukahosus
DIPLOMACY: None
Shukahosus continued the development of his nation. He is now experimenting with new ways to lead his people.
Pre-Columbian. No cavalry.

THE SEQUOIA NATION
Running Bear
DIPLOMACY: None
After long thought, Running Bear comes up with a plan for the future. He makes the following statement to his people: "We have come a long way in our efforts to unite as a single nation. We have formed a unified front to the wilderness, and we have become stronger as a result. Now I ask each of you to embrace your fellow Sequoians as if he or she were from your own tribe, and together give your allegiance to the greater united tribe of the Sequoia. This declaration of a united single tribe will allow each of each members the ability to seek their own destiny within the tribe without limiting their vision to their immediate surroundings." Well, maybe he's just a little ahead of his time - only the home tribes are willing to go along with him.
Barbarian. No cavalry.

Meso-America

THE TEPANEC HEGEMONY
Xiu Cinteotl
DIPLOMACY: Achi (f)
Xiu Cinteotl makes friends on the western coast and builds a city (Teche) to seal the deal.
Civilized tech 4. No cavalry.

THE ARAWAK OF THE ISLANDS
Ahabatey
DIPLOMACY: Taino (f)
Ahabatey saves for the future.
Pre-Columbian.

THE AZTECS
Matlaccoatzin, the Blood King
DIPLOMACY: Tlapocoya (ea), Tepuztec (ea), Zapotec (f)
Matlaccoatzin continues the slave raids on the old Mixtec provinces of Nahuatl, Huave, and Popoluca. The Blood King brings Zapotec fully into the Empire while Tlapocoya and Tepuztec are now economic allies. The city of Cempotlan is moved to the coast and all are happy.
Civilized tech 4. No cavalry.

South America

THE MIGHTY INCAN EMPIRE
Tatam Yach
DIPLOMACY: Huari (t), Moche (some effect)
Tatum Yach, Son of the Sun, hearing rumors of empires in the great northern continent, the Son of the Sun sent his trusted explorer Apo Mayta sailing up to greet them. Tatum's son, Roca, was promoted to Heir and a day of rejoicing proclaimed throughout the realm. Unfortunately, his son died of an illness while in the high mountains on a hunting expedition. Schools were created in Moche to train the youth there in Incan ways, so the province could one day freely join the empire; these efforts are slowly turning the people to favor the Incan Empire. The neutral city of Huari was given much food to show them one of the many benefits of Inca rulership and agreeing the pay tribute to the Empire. Inca engineering laid a road leading from Cuzco in the Andes down to Maranga on the coast; the first of many to come.
Civilized tech 5. No cavalry

MSI-8

Last Updated on 6 July 00
By David Salter