February 10, 2001

Turns will be due March 1, 2001.

1) Given the difficulty and time consuming nature of delivering a separate series of Newsfax items to each and every player, I have decided to go to the usual method of simply publishing the entire newsfax with updated maps immediately upon the completion of the turn. A good idea... that failed <g>.

2) The free INFRA point is gone for next turn, the free INFRA point is gone for next turn... LONG LIVE THE FREE INFRA POINT. This means that if your IS is greater than your current infra reported on your turnsheet, you will have to either invest heavily and pray, rule or administer, or drop regional status to avoid thin government. Please note that ruling will never reduce your infra, while administrating will. Ruling only takes 50% of the AP available to the leader, while admin takes all turn.

3) A good portion of the delay in this turn was due to my having to interpret a variety of player turnsheet styles. In the next week, I will post one of several styles of acceptable turnsheets. These will be the only accepted turnsheets available. Failure to use one of these will result in the turn not being processed. There will be at least one option that is a .txt version, and a few word or excel versions.

4) Similarly, players must put the number of ap spent on each action, and give an actual number (not for 2 years). The only exception to this is "for the rest of the turn". Things may get delayed as some actions do not have a definate time frame, ie combat.

5) New seafaring rules to be published soon.

6) Open debate on the ability of nfp to be saved. Please send comments to the list. I am not yet decided on this, and if I may end up putting this one up for a vote.

7) Kudos for the one player in Northwest Europe for naming a princess the same name as my new daughter, Brigid.

8) A brief note on combat. Some nations have not been doing well in combat, especially against uncontrolled regions. Remember that these regions will have sizeable defensive armies. They will also have leaders generated for them (the higher the RV, the better the leader). Often, they will have good QRs. So do not think that you can send a 3 combat, 2 charisma leader with 4 light infantry to pacify a (3/9) region with poor QRs. You will not do well.

9) Finally, I apologize for the delay in the turn (16 day turn around). It was delayed for a number of reasons. A new baby, a plague that ripped through my household, a grant that was due at work. I hope to be able to churn future turns out in half the time. After 5 turns, I feel that the game is going well. Most nations are still in the developmental phase, but several have reached quite a level of power. Running the turn is like reading a book, I appreciate all the effort the players are putting into it (there has been some very creative ideas).

ON TO THE GOOD STUFF...
 

THE EMPIRE OF THE SUN - Asiatic Pagan

Emperor Miyoshi

Diplomacy: Shimane (f)

Emperor Miyoshi decided to remarry. He sent Daimyo Naoyori to Shimane to discuss marrying one of the daughters of the Shimane Shogun. The Shogun was ecstatic to have his bloodline mixed with the Imperial line. It did not take much for Daimyo to convince him to fully join the Empire. The emperors new wife gave birth to a girl in year 21.

As Miyoshi ruled over his nation, he realized that he will need help in performing all the tasks required of his nation. He gave his daughter, Princess Ariko official status in the court.
 

THE JADE DRAGON - Oceanic Pagan

Emperor Shen Fong

Diplomacy: Hwai (fa), Honan (c), Chekiang (ea), Taiping (drop to ea)

Tzu Lang, the capital, again increased in size, as the Jade Dragon became more reknown as a major nation in the East. Shen Fong Ruled over his nation, and commiserated with his wife when she had miscarriages in years 22 and 23.

He sent his ally from Taiping and his general, Li Fam, to Chikiang to negotiate with the locals. The Taiping ally died from eating bad fish in year 21, so Li Fam had to continue alone. He was particularly successful, gaining strong economic ties with the region. Prince Shen Tzu travelled to Hwai and to Honan, gaining a feudal alliance in the former and laying claim to the latter. It is rumored that he spread gold liberally among the local leaders.

The death of the leader of Taiping was of significance back in the region. For when the ally's son took over, he did not see things the same as his father. He decreased the relationship between Taiping and the Jade Dragon to an economic one.
 

THE JINN DYNASTY  - Asiatic Pagan

Emperor Sung Lei

Diplomacy: Shentung (a)

Ming Che-Jinn declared himself Emperor of the Jinn. While this self proclaimed Empire was still an infant nation, it was certainly in line with the rest of the Eastern Realms. Ming felt that to gain the respect of his fellow rulers, he must have the same title. So it came to pass that Emperor Minh Che-Jinn ruled over his nation. The Emperor knew that Prince Sung Lei, only two years his junior, wished to be named heir, yet Ming wanted to pass on the Kingdom to his own sons. To delay the need to make a decision, he sent the prince off to conduct a census of the realm. He also ordered Beijing to be expanded, keeping its reputation as the largest city in the world.

Meanwhile, the Emperor focused on his own personal dynasty. His wife had a series of 3 miscarriages in three years. It was said that Ming's anger at not being able to father an heir was great. One night in the year 23, his rage was so great that he rode from the capital at top speed on a large stallion. He was overheard saying, "If I must father a bastard child to rule my Kingdom, so be it!". He left is such a great hurry, that none of his servants could keep up with him. He was found the next morning with a broken neck about 20 miles from the capital, his horse nearby with a broken leg. The horse was left to suffer and die for not bearing the King home safely.

When word got out that the King was dead, without naming an heir, there was rumor of revolution. Prince Sung Lei immediately returned to the capital from his travels to Shentung, where he was able to secure an alliance. He quickly assumed the throne, but he was worried about General Tan Szu. But he needn't have worried overmuch. For while the General would surely have taken the crown if he had had the opportunity, he was out of the country in Kansu at the time, and had no army to march on Beijing. Emperor Sung Lei had no doubt that Tan Szu would not be returning to serve under his leadership.

Perhaps it was the new Emperor's personality or perhaps it was that he had just shown himself throughout the region conducting the census. But for whatever reason, the nation remained intact despite the concern over the succession. Sung Lei considered himself lucky.
 

THE SUBLIME KINGDOM OF WU - Oceanic Pagan

King Minh-Wei

Diplomacy: Nanling (t), Lingtung (f)

King Minh-Wei remarried a local woman, Piu-Yan. But he did not spend much time at home. He Immediately went off to Lingtung, where after several years of hard negotiating, he was able to convince them to fully join the Kingdom of Wu. At the same time, Sau-Fu was sent to Nanling to continue negotiations there. Sau-Fu was making great strides, when he became ill at the beginning of year 22. He continued discussions until the end of the year when he succumbed to his mysterious febrile illness. In the end, he was able to get the Nanling leaders to pay tribute to Wu.

Not much else happened in this small nation. Of note, several local priests were stoned in local villages. This did not impact on national policy, but was brought to the King's attention. The King responded by allocating more funds to education in the country.
 

THE KINGDOM OF PANDYA - Oceanic Pagan

King Sunratta

Diplomacy: none

<NO TURN RECEIVED>
 

THE  KINGDOM OF KHEMER - Oceanic Pagan

King Tajir Alamehli

Diplomacy: none

<NO TURN RECEIVED>
 

THE CONCLAVE OF THE GANGES - Oceanic Pagan

King Sudakkar, Rightful King of the Conglave of the Ganges

Diplomacy: Chitor (fa)

Kaunaj. The name exudes strength and rightiousness. And well it should, for this new city on the banks of the Upper Ganges is the stalwart new capital of the Conclave. King Sudakkar personally oversaw its construction as he ruled his nation. He and his wife were blessed with a son in year 21, and suffered together through a pregnancy loss in year 24.

Meanwhile, Prince Susandra, the heir, married a local woman, and had a son in year 23 and a daughter in year 24. In year 25, he was overseeing some work being done on the new city, when a cart carrying stone overturned, crushing the young heir. He died 2 days later. His new wife took her daughter and returned to her family. The son stayed on at the new palace in Kaunaj.

Marari, the King's advisor, went to Chitor, and was able to secure a feudal oath from the local Pasha.
 

THE LAND OF THE TINY FINGERS - Oceanic Pagan

King Sajva

Diplomacy: Nadavaria (revolts)

<NO TURN RECEIVED>

King Merdic III had no children. His advisor, Sajva, had often mentioned that a King needs a son to keep the people happy, so that they would not fear for the future. But Merdic III was a stubborn man. He would not abandon his wife for another woman who may bear him children. When Merdic took ill in mid 21, Sajva began to plan. As time went on, he realized that he, Sajva, could seize control of the nation upon the King's death. When the event finally occured, Sajva immediately stepped up and seized power. His influence in the Kingdom was so strong that there were few who complained. The only vocal opposition came from Merdic's Nadavarian ally, who immediately dissolved the relationship between the Tiny Fingers and Nadavaria. So King Sajva took the throne, naming one of his twin sons heir, and the other a prince of the realm.
 

THE KINGDOM OF MANDALAY (previously the Za Priest Kings of Pegu)- Oceanic Pagan

King Airlangga Za, King of Pegu, Voice of the Holy Winds, Hands of the Faithful

Diplomacy: Mon (ea), Nakhon (revolts)

Airlangga Za travelled to Mon. This was a significant event for two reasons. One, it made a great impression on the people of Mon, who agreed to an economic alliance. And two, because he left no one at home to rule in his stead. Nakhon, control of which had already been strained by the mountains, revolted. The rest of the nation remained intact.

At home, Airlangga Za II oversaw the construction of a new city on the Andaman Sea, Mandalay. According to the King's orders, he proclaimed the nation to now be called the Kingdom of Mandalay. The heir spent time with his wife, but knew great sorrow in failed pregnancies in years 21, 23 and 25. Huge amounts of gold went into educating the nation's healers to avoid such tragedies in the future.
 

THE ISLAND KINGDOM OF JAVA - Oceanic Pagan

Queen Nam Outang

Diplomacy: none

Luito di Toru had been King only a few short years. Yet he had consolidated the nation into a unified Kingdom. He had two sons who would eventually take the throne from him. But for now they would remain free of the responsibilities of court. Luito was only in his early 30s. But in year 22, while eating, he began choking on a fish bone. He would not survive, and the nation would be left without a clear successor to the throne.

But Princess Nam Outang quickly came to the fore. With a determination not previously seen from her, she immediately claimed her dead brother's  throne for herself. Her rapid actions took the nation by surprise. But it also kept the Kingdom together. In a dramatic move that showed great politcal finess, she named her nephew, Luito's eldest son Lampong, to a position in court. As Queen, Nam sent trade missives to Khemer, but did not get any response. She ruled from the palace.
 

THE KINGDOM OF INDUS - Oceanic Pagan

King Kellar I, King of the Scythians

Diplomacy: none

<NO TURN RECEIVED>

The heir's wife died.
 

THE KARA-KHATAI KINGDOM - Asiatic Pagan

King Zengi

Diplomacy: Khwarzim (a), Otrar (ne), Bactria (ne)

King Zengi continued to solidify his hold on the nation. He sent diplomats far and wide throughout the Kingdom. Lord Arslan
went to Khwarzim, where he initially had difficulty. It seems that the local chieftain who had sworn a feudal oath to
Kara-Khatai was very reluctant to alter the relationship. Arslan spent three years actively discussing the issue. He was able to
befriend the chieftain's eldest son, and enlist his aid in convincing his father. As luck would have it (from the Kara-Khatai point
of view), the chieftain died in his sleep in year 23 at the age of 40. When his eldest son replaced him, it was a foregone
conclusion that ties with Kara-Khatai would improve.

Prince Togetkin and Lord Riff were sent to Otrar and Bactria, respectively. Neither had much success in improving relations.
Riff from simple bad luck, and Togetkin from being killed at the age of 28 in a riding accident.

The King meanwhile ruled over his nation. Despite his best efforts, he and his wife did not have any more children. While he
gave his brother, Zoltan, a role at court, there was some concern in the nation that Zengi had not yet named an heir. Rumor has
it that he hopes to pass on the crown to his 6 year old son.
 

THE KINGDOM OF PERSIA - Asiatic Pagan

King Cambyses

Diplomacy: none

February of the year 21 was a great month of celebration throughout Persia. For both King Cambyses and Prince Farzeen
were wed. While Farzeen's new wife lost a pregnancy several months later, the King had a son late in year 21. Both families
were blessed with sons again in year 24. The King's wife had a miscarriage the following year. Cambyses enjoyed these 5
years ruling over his nation. It was a time of peace and prosperity.

Prince Mithras was sent out to perform an accurate count of the people of Persia. He spent five years conducting the census.
The time was well spent, as he was able to report to the King that there would be a boost to the national revenue in the future.
 

THE KINGDOM OF MESOPOTAMIA - African Pagan

King Jafar

Diplomacy: Hahmar (a), Kuwait (fa)

Jafar travelled to Hahmar briefly to negotiate with the local leaders. He secured a wife for his young brother, Raziel, who he
made heir to the throne. This laid the groundwork for a formal alliance with the region. The King then returned to Jakal to rule.
The King's wife had a daughter in year 21, but would die with a second baby during childbirth in year 25.

Meanwhile, Ossama and Prince Dehelia were sent to the South, to Kuwait. Here they received the formal pledge of allegiance
from the Kuwaiti leader.
 

THE MONARCHY OF PATZINAK - Asiatic Pagan

King Stephin Onishchanko

Diplomacy: none

Stephin Onishchanko ordered a tremendous effort be put into converting the people of Taman to the ways of Asiatic Paganism.
They were fairly successful. The King then led a contingent of diplomats to Khazar, where he lobbied to secure a wife for his
son and heir, Alexander. This was done. When Stephin began discussing politics with the locals, they were quite agreeable to
anything the King said, as they had long been fully integrated into Stephin's country.

Stephin was saddened to learn upon his return of the death of his wife.
 

THE KINGDOM OF CARCHEMISH - African Pagan

King Matho

Diplomacy: none

<NO TURN RECEIVED>
 

THE ISLAND KINGDOM OF RHODES - Oracle of Delphi

King Gorgidas

Diplomacy: Cilicia (revolts)

These were troubling times for the people of Rhodes. The ill-fated decision to help the Jordanians had not gone well.
Carchemish to the Southeast could be a concern. As always, the Daughters of the Nile were worrisome. But King Laius hoped
to mend some fences. He sent trade representatives to Carchemish, but did not get a response. Subsequent events would have
made the proposed land route untenable in any event.

It began in year 21 with a mysterious symbol being painted in lamb's blood on the front door of the ruling Cilisian lord. It was in
the shape of an eye. Over the next few months, the symbol became more widespread, being seen throughout the region.
People, both noble and commoner, began wearing pendants of the eye symbol. Soon, those who followed this new faith
outnumbered those who did not. This did not sit well with the extremely devout Oracle of Delphi Rhodesians. Inevidable
clashes occured. In the end, the region revolted from Rhodes, declaring its independence.

The loss of Cilisia did not bother Laius overmuch.  He was concerned about the possibility of reprisals from the South. To
counter this, he hired Pilbee and his band of Jordanian mercenaries. But with things being quiet, they remained camped out on
Rhodes, enjoying the King's hospitality and spending his gold. A concerted effort was made to convert the island of Crete and
the region of Constantinople. While the former was somewhat successful, the latter was not.

In other news, Laius opened trade with a number of nations. It was through these connections that he learned of the new
religion that spread from the Nile to Cilisia, the Eye of Amen-Ra. The King also sent his twin daughters to his other daughter,
the Oracle of Delphi, to strengthen ties with the primacy. He was thrilled when a new church was built on Rhodes to honor the
Oracle.

The Kingdom was rocked by a series of deaths in high ranking officials. First in year 22, the navy's flagship, the Canopus
(named after the famous Rhodesian pirate killed in a skirmish with the Greeks years before) returned to port bringing news of
the death of the Seer of Delphi t. He had been patrolling the waters to defend Rhodes. The second, in year 23, would prove to
be the most significant. For King Laius died in his sleep at age 63. Luckily, Gorgidas had been named heir, and quickly
assumed the throne. One of Lauis' sons, Justin, was given a position at court. The last death was that of Anaxis, the man who
had always been at Lauis' right hand (although interestingly was rarely at court). He died abroad.
 

THE KINGDOM OF TROY - Oracle of Delphi

King Paris

Diplomacy: Delphi (f), Thrace (f)

A concerning series of events took place in Troy. First, three days after an elaborate wedding ceremony where King Paris'
son, Priam, wed a local noblewoman, as heir, he announced that Priam would be heir to the Kingdom. In the ensuing
celebration, Priam choked on a chicken bone, and died before the eyes of the court. Prince Aeneus, Paris' brother, was so
distraught at the death of his nephew that he decided to give up life in court and go to Delphi to serve the Oracle. But on the
eve of his departure, he too succumbed to his fate. There were wild rumors of a curse on the house of Paris, until nine months
after Priam's death, his wife gave birth to a son. This brought hope back to the people. The King also had a pair of sons in
years 22 and 23.

Octorius Pogue, son of the first Oracle of Delphi, was made a Prince of the Realm, when he married Princess Cassandra. He
did not stay at court long, as he was ordered to travel to the place of his birth to discuss relations with the crown. He was
extremely successful in Thrace and Delphi, as both the region and the Holy City are fully brought into the nation.

Trade flowed freely from Troy, as far North as the Svear and as far West as Granada. To accomadate the increased shipping, Troy was increased in size.
 

THE KINGDOM OF GREECE - Oracle of Delphi

King Alexander

Diplomacy: none

King Zechariah was happy that trade was now flowing in and out of Athens. He hoped to someday rival the trading cities of
Syracuse and Tingis. To accomadate all the new shipping, Athens was expanded. Also, Greece received money from the
Oracle to aid their military.

The King ruled over his lands, while enjoying the company of his heir, Prince Alexander and his wife. Prince Peter also
married. His wife had a miscarriage in year 21, then Peter was called away to take over patrolling the seas after the death of
Admiral Mathew later in the year.

In the year 22, tragedy struck. Zechariah developed a great fever and began coughing up blood. Within a week he lay on his
death bed. He gave his blessing to Alexander, and died. Alexander took the throne without challenge. Over the next many
years, King Alexander did well. He had a son and a daughter (although there were two miscarriages, as well). He sent Cantia
Pogue to Epirus to again try to convert the locals to OD. While he was somewhat successful, it was the efforts of the primacy
that truely brought the Word to the mountainous region.
 

THE ORACLES OF DELPHI - Oracle of Delphi

Oracle Atlante of Rhodes

Diplomacy: Bithnia (ne), Attica (ne), Thrace (mn), Rhodes (ch)

Atlante was still just a young girl, yet she held great sway in the Eastern Med. She felt the weight of the Oracle daily. Yet she
took solace in the knowledge that it was divine providence that brought her to her current position. She was most surprised by
the requirements to oversee the financial aspects of the worlds largest religion. She had to coordinate incoming food shipments
from the faithful nations, secure tithes from both the Svear and Greece, not to mention the religioius responsibilities. But more
concerning to the young girl was the political situation in the area.

Atlante looked out onto the sea with some concern. What had her father gotten into this time? He has always been a
man quick to act and slower to think. She didn't want anyone to misunderstand. She loved him. He had helped her
realize her destiny, and his heart was always in the right place, but...

The problem with the Jordanians was typical for her father. He tried to help a nearly helpless situation without
thinking of the future.She had to marvel at his willingness to get involved, but now the whole area was up in arms.
What to do? Well, going there herself would be a mistake. First, she had too many responsibilities here to go back to
Rhoades to help. Secondly, she was determined to stay out of secular politics unless requested and needed. Lastly, she
couldn't imagine her father taking advice from her. He was a completely devout man, but after all she is still his
daughter. Sigh. Decisions need to be made. Then it struck her. A blinding thought that could only have come from
above. Certainly, it had to be the answer. Calling out for scribes, the 16 year old leader of Delphi rushed down the
hall.

"Yes, Oracle." a page asked, " You are in need?"

"Send this message to Raymond immediately. He will be able to put it in motion. Then I need a second messenger to
send to the Kings of Troy and Greece. They should be able to help in this matter."

The Oracle spoke and the messages were sent. She ordered Raymond Sartorius to Rhodes to build a church. She also sent
gold to Greece to help train his military, for in the times when Thrace was a secular power, it had extremely able foot soldiers.
But enough of this, the Oracle was due to preside over the canonization of a new monastery in Thrace. Plus she had to receive
two of her younger sisters into the church. Despite being twins, only one was mature enough to become a seer. Atlante also
received news that another faithful prince, who had been enroute to Delphi to serve, had died.

Raymond had a more difficult time. He spent a good deal of time traveling around. And while he was successful in Rhodes,
several other ventures were not. Lastly, he travelled to Epirus where he had minimal success. It was the intervention of Atlante,
using the Church's great powers to convince people of the way of the Oracle that finally brought about almost all the Epirians to
OD.
 

THE KINGDOM OF UNITED LITHUANIA-UKRAINE (KULU) - European Pagan

King Petro

Diplomacy: Lithuania (f), Chernigov (a)

Petro ruled over his nation. While he contemplated marriage, he did not feel that the time was right. Instead, he oversaw the enlargement of Tepes. He was pleased to see increases in trade coming from both the North and South, although it was evident that a good deal of the river traffic was bypassing Kulu for other lands.

The King sent Prince Geoffrey and Lord Dominic to conduct diplomacy to pull together the small nation. This was done with quiet efficiency. While there did not appear to be any further increase in the tribal activities to the East, there were a number of rumors of large raids in some of the neighboring regions. Chernigov was not among those attacked, but several adjacent regions were. Petro realized that trouble like the sun would rise out of the East.
 

THE UNITED TRIBES OF THE FOREST KINGDOM (UTFK) - European Pagan

King Vaspar

Diplomacy: Kauyavia (ne), Saxony (f), Daugava (c), Courland (fa), Pomern (nt)

Vaspar again ruled his growing nation. But he was significantly more active. He invested significantly in the homeland, making a considerable effort to provide irrigation and remove forest land. He agreed to release the region of Pomern from their obligation to pay tribute to UTFK, while he again sent his people out to shore up relations with various parts of the Kingdom. He and his wife had two new daughters, as well.

Prince Vladjimir (the Brave) returned to the Eastern lands where he had whipped up the locals AGAINST the Kingdom. This time he had better luck, although most of his time was spent undoing the previous damage. In the end, gained some status in Courland and Daugava. But not all had forgiven his past behavior in the region. While walking in Courland in the year 25, a man stepped out from behind some bushes and ran Vladjimir through with a dagger. He was quickly subdued, but the damage had been done. The man was later identified as a local nobleman's son who had been offended by Vladjimir several years before. He was quickly put to death in a manner most horrible.

Events in Saxony became interesting while Gwido was securing the region fully into UTFK. It seems that a member of the Royal Family of Alba, Prince Duncan, arrived to discuss Saxony's future. The question was whether Duncan did not know of Saxony's connection to UTFK, or if this was a deliberate attempt to sow discontent in the region. During some tense discussions, where the Saxon ally of UTFK tried to mediate between the two, many harsh words were spoken. Some thought that violence would ensue, but an outbreak of a nasty pustular disease ended the arguement before blows could be struck. First Duncan, then Gwido would succumb to the small outbreak. In the end, Gwido was triumphant, and the region became friendly to UTFK.

But of all the diplomatic events that took place, none were more curious than those in Kauyavia. It was King Vaspar, himself, who travelled to visit his Kauyavian ally early in year 25. The ally was cooler than on prior visits, and Vaspar got the feeling that something was amiss. While he spent several months talking with the leader, he sent his servant out among the people. This was how he learned that gold had been discovered in Kauyavia. Upon learning this, he understood that Kauyavia was considering severing ties with the UTFK. He changed his tact, and in the end was able to convince the region to remain allied to the nation. Upon his return home, he found that Lorian had gotten word of the gold rush in Kauyavia, and the city had already doubled in size to accomadate the new wealth.
 

THE KINGDOM OF THE NORTH (previously the Kingdom of Novgorod) - European Pagan

King Varjo

Diplomacy: Estonia (a), Kalinin (nt), Rhzef (ne), Livonia (ne), Latvia (fa)

The flames crawled across the logs, casting a flickering light upon the circle of faces. The eldest amonst them looked at each of the faces taht were turned towards him.

"Some of you are new here, travelling for many moons to come to this holy place to learn the Way. The white cold lies across the land, but still this place remains green. These trees are the spirits of our ancestors, and they speak to us of the true way.

In our old tongue, we called the Way the Vevana, or, the Way of suffering. Some of you may wonder at this, but it is easy to understand. The gods do not offer comfort to the weak, nor to they seek to punish, but they issue challenges at all times, they wish us to show courage against adversity and strength  through difficulties. The way is often hard, and we all suffer through these times, but those who are strong of mind and body shall persevere, and come forth as ones worthy of honour.

We honour nature, and listen to gods, from whom we came.

In the beginning, there were the lands of fire and the lands of ice which came together. This joining created the gods,  who then created our lands. The Lands of ice are still in the far north, and the lands of fire are still in the far south. The gods dwell in a land of light, and their light fills the long nights of winter in the far north. The Gods are many, but their blood has descended to us, and we must prove worthy of their inheritance. We strive for the virtues that the Gods hold:

1) Boldness: courage, bravery, action.
2) Truth: to say what is, and not hide in dark words.
3) Honour: to act upon what we believe and follow the Gods.
4) Troth: unfailing loyalty to self, family, clan, and the Gods.
5) Responsibility: to govern yourself, and accept the outcome of your actions
6) Hospitality: to freely share your gifts with other, both man and god.
7) Industriousness: to work hard and prosper.
8) Self-Reliance: to not be a burden on others
9) Perseverance: to never give up until all is done well.

There are three paths we hold important, the self, the clan, and the Gods. You must always work to improve yourself and make yourself strong in mind and body. You must work to make your clan strong, and honour the Gods and their power in your
life.

The Gods do not ask us to submit and worship them. A willing slave is the least among us, but the Gods instead challenge us at all times. The man or woman who will not defend their own honour is one not worthy of that honour. We do not grovel before the Gods and beg for their scraps, but we challenge theGods to do their worst, and show that we will still prosper no matter the difficulty.

Each person, man or woman, is born empty. Each person must strive to fill themselves with honour. Every act remains in your heart, and every act of honour will bring you wealth, but every dishonourable act must be paid for in some way - dishonour is a stain which cannot be washed away, but a mark that will haunt you.

The land is a harsh mistress. We rely on her kindness for our lives, but we must always honour her and her creations for if we are dishonourable in her eyes, she will ignore us. The Way is a guide to us, a guide to honour and loyalty, the guide to bring together your being, your clan, and the Gods."

Silence spread across the forest, as the flickering of the fire was echoed by the god's lights which flared across the dark winter skies.

(from the teachings of Fornmar, tribal elder of the Empire of the North)

King Varjo understood that his wilderness natio would only survive if he could unite the warring tribes around him. So he sent Prince Varis to Estonis to find a wife and negotiate with the locals. He came away with a wife and an alliance. Chief Sotori travelled to Kalinin and Rhzef, where he had mixed success. Finally, Prince Valoa went to Livonia and Latvia, again with mixed success.

Meanwhile, the King ruled over his fledgling nation. Most assuredly helped along by sacrifices to the Gods of the Winter's Night Fire, the King had three daughters in years 22, 24 and 25. He contemplated his place in the world among the pagan Gods and the cold night sky.
 

THE KINGDOM OF THE SVEAR - Oracle of Delphi

King Thorfinn Ivarsson of Giantstock

Diplomacy: Agder (f), Uppsala (f)

Thorfinn the Giant continued to mourn the loss of his wife, Helga. He did not remarry, his grief was so great (the thought of having more children was perhaps a bit daunting, as well). He focussed on running his nation, and opening up numerous trade routes. As far South as the far away lands of Troy, where the Svear first learned of the Oracle of Delphi.

The King sent his daughter and heiress, Princess Runa, to Agder, where she was able to bring them fully into the nation. Prince Halfdan, the King's son-in-law, had similar success in Uppsala.
 

THE KINGDOM OF FRANCE - European Pagan

King Childeric I

Diplomacy: Anjou (f), Normandy (nt), Ponthieu (ne)

Despite rumors to the contrary, France still maintained its tight hold on Flanders. A port area was built along the shore. This allowed the nation to begin trade through Gent. Routes were opened with a number of local nations. In addition, goods arrived from as far away as Morroco. Childeric also announced that Chlodocech would become heir to the throne. All the news was not good however, as the Queen died at the end of year 21.

Childeric I sent his trusted advisor to Anjou, where the region agreed to fully enter the nation. He also ordered the Ponthieu ally to Normandy to discuss politics. He was able to improve relations somewhat. Prince Lantechilde travelled to Ponthieu, but upon arriving, he was told that the local leader had departed for Normandy. The prince waited, but the ally did not return home.
 

THE KINGDOM OF LORRAINE - European Pagan

King Gearald

Diplomacy: Westphalia (f), Hainaut (a)

King Gearald sent people to solidify his hold on Westphalia and Hainaut. There was success on both fronts. H personally led the army in defending the nation, but there was no great threat to the Kingdom. While he was in the field, Micheil was left to rule the Kingdom. Prince Micheil's wife had a miscarriage in year 21, but was again pregnant in year 23. Unfortunately, the next several years would be very difficult for the Royal Family of Lorraine. For Prince Micheil, heir of Lorraine, would not live to see his son born. He died at the age of 51 after going to bed with chest pains. He was found by his wife in the morning having passed away peacefully. Gearald named Alfred, Micheil's son as heir. Yet in year 25, both Prince Alfred and Prince Fearghus died when a boar they had been hunting in the forests of Westphalia turned on them.

The King named Harold, another of Micheil's sons, to the position of Crown Prince. He made his own son a prince of the realm. The King also built a new port city in the region of Holland, called Graanderen, on the North Sea and English Channel.
 

THE KINGDOM OF BAVARIA  - Roman Catholic

King Gustav

Diplomacy: Bohemia (f), Thuringia (f)

King Ferdinand had heard rumors from the South that a prophet had come to deliver the people of the Southern peninsula. A prophet who spouted belief in just One God. Ferdinand had always wondered how the many pagan dieties had not fallen upon themselves until only one remained. For that was the way of things, both in the World and in the Heavens. He decided to send Prince Friedrich secretly South to bring back word of this new faith. But while Friedrich was a warm and friendly sort, he was not the most adept at slipping quietly through the countryside. It soon became obvious that his travels through Lombardy did not go unnoticed. Yet no one stopped him. He arrived in Rome to find an amazing spectacle. There, a section of the city had been dedicated to this new religion. The entire city was abuzz with Roman Catholicism. Friedrich was granted an audience with the Pope, who personally baptized him and gave him leave to bring word of the faith to Bavaria. Prince Friedrich began his trek home.

Meanwhile, back in Bavaria, King Ferdinand had taken ill. He died before Friedrich's return, never having fully appreciated the teachings of Jesus. One of his last acts as King was to order the construction of Stuttgard, a port city in Swabia on the Rhine. Prince Gustav, who had been ruling the country, took over the septor of King without problem. Prince, now King, Gustav had a daughter and a son in years 21 and 22.

Upon receiving word of Prince Friedrich's return, Gustav ordered General Marcus to the outskirts of the nation to try to hold things together if there were any revolts. For Gustav had decided that Bavaria would follow Rome and the Holy See. Upon making the announcement to the people of Bavaria, there was a ripple of excitement. But other than Tyrol, the entire nation was one unit. All the regions converted to RC, even Tyrol. It should be noted, that Marcus, the very person sent to quell rebellion, could not come to terms with losing the pagan ways. He left his post, and headed out to seek his fortune, away from the monotheists in Bavaria.
 

KINGDOM OF ALBA - European Pagan

King Dougal

Diplomacy: Hebrides (f), Highlands (t), Saxony (ne)

Dougal sought to expand the holdings of Alba. While he ruled with the additional administrative aid of Prince Malcolm, he sent Lord Aongus to the North. He offered the hand of his daughter to the Hebridean Clanchief. This paid off, as the region became friendly. Dougal had a daughter and 2 sons, while Malcolm had a daughter.

The King also sent Prince Duncan to the region of Saxony. Duncan knew right away that something was amiss. For the leader of Saxony was much too friendly with the UTFK representative. He soon learned that the Saxons had been tied to the UTFK for 5 years, and that his attempt to gain favor was going to be that much more difficult. He decided that an aggressive tact may be the key to gaining control of the region. But when Gwido, the UTFK representative, became beligerent, things became ugly. Duncan realized that soon he would be entangled in a personal conflict with Gwido. Then upon rising one morning in the year 23, he noticed a splotch on his forehead. Over the next 5 hours, it became a blister, then filled with pus. Several more broke out across his face, back and chest. Within days, he was covered and took to his bed with fever. He died 4 days later, having had no success in Saxony.
 

THE KINGDOM OF AVALON - European Pagan

King Mordred

Diplomacy: Cornwall (f)

The death of Merlin several years ago weighed heavily on King Mordred. For how was he to run his nation without the aid of his father's old advisor. One thing he could do was to take the advise that Merlin had given before his death, and that Merlin had been unable to implement. He ordered Lord Rincewind to conduct a census of the realm. Rincewind did so over a five year period, to ensure that it was done without problem. Over these five years, the King ruled and had 2 sons. Prince Broon, the heir, helped administer the nation. Other than having two daughters, he was a complete failure in this endeavor. Without the King's direct oversight, the extra income from the census would have been lost to Broon's mismanagement. In the end, Mordred needed to hire tremendous numbers of scribes and paper pushers to aid in the day to day affairs of the government.

The King also married his daughter Mauve off to Bragga, the Cornwall ally, bringing that region into the nation. With increasing trade goods coming into London, the city was ordered to be expanded, as well.
 

THE KINGDOM OF DURHAM  - European Pagan

King Ethelred, Dragonslayer

Diplomacy: Isle of Man (f)

King Egbert the Bald decided to try to mend fences with the people of Lothian. He sent Earl Gilbert to the region, and offered the hand of Princess Aline to the local ClanChief. The Earl spent several years there, but despite his efforts, the emnity ran too deep. He was unable to make any headway. But Gilbert reported back that he had some leads, and further efforts could conceivably yield fruit.

The King also sent Earl Ifor to Man, where he was able to bring the small island into the Kingdom. But none of these events were to be reported to the King. For when a local Sussex farmer petitioned the King for aid at the end of year 21 against a dragon that had taken off with his sheep, the King decided to take time off from running the country to boldly go out and slay the creature. The last words heard from him as he rode off to do battle with the beast were, "I am already bald, I have no need to fear his fiery breath!".

Prince Stephen took the throne of Durham without incident. As honor and duty required it, within three months of assuming the throne, in March of year 22, he rode out to slay the vile serpent. It was with great sorrow (tempered with the gleam of the power that was to be his) that Prince Ethelred, now King Ethelred, took the news of Stephen's passing. But the dragon was still eating sheep (the Royal meals had obviously not slacked its appetite). Ethelred took to horse and rode out to do battle, for his people, and to avenge two Durham Kings.

He travelled to the outskirts of Sussex, on the border of Lancashire, to the farm in question. The farmer told the King that in addition to the two monarchs, several townfolk had also been killed. Several villagers described the howls of the beast like an evil chorus at night. In looking at some of the remains of the recently killed sheep, the King found that the bones were broken and the marrow sucked dry. He smiled, for as all knew, dragons ate their entire prey, bones and all, and they did not howl, they roared. This was obviously the work of a demon. This knowledge invariably saved his life, for to fight a dragon, one must engage on foot to avoid one's horse from bolting from fright. While a demon should be fought on horseback. As the King rode into the forest where he assumed the demon to be lurking, he was set upon by a pack of wild wolves. It was only his trained mounts ability to keep them at bay that allowed King Stephen to first fend them off, then hunt them down. In all he slew 29 wolves in the pack, singlehandedly. While a great feat, it did not rival defeating a dragon or a demon. He now understood how his two predecessors met their fate, for on foot, no man could fend off such a pack of vile beasts.

Upon his return, the simple peasants seeing the wounds on his horse, the scratches on his shield and his armor, and the copious amount of wolves blood declared him, Ethelred, Rex and Dracusnaggan (Dragonslayer in the local dialect). Realizing his claim on the crown was somewhat tenuous, Ethelred wore the accolades with head held high, and returned to London to rule over his nation. There were none who challenged his right to the crown.
 

THE GREEN TRIBE - European Pagan

King Seamus II

Diplomacy: none

The Green Tribe had seen its fair share of economic trouble. But Seamus had seemingly worked out the problems. He now began to look to the world outside the great island. He ordered the construction of shipbuilding facilities in Waterford, and opened the city for trade. Not many of the local nations sent trade ships to Waterford, but some goods did start arriving from the Med. Things began to look up for the Kingdom.

Unfortunately, at home things were not as good. The King's wife had a miscarriage in year 21, then died in childbirth the following year. Realizing that the nation needed a robust royal family, the King remarried. Yet the same pattern recurred, with a stillbirth in year 23 and the death of his new wife in year 24. Again the King remarried.
 

THE KINGDOM OF CATALONIA - African Pagan

King Dropan

Diplomacy: Navarre (c)

King Pincho often joked how his reign would last forever, as the Catalonian throne had simply used up all its bad luck in recent years. But fate had one more cruel trick to play. Pincho, only 21 years old, developed severe abdominal pains in December of year 21. Over several hours, he became feverish and his belly became rigid. The court physics knew this to be a sign of demonic possession, and feared the spirits inhabiting his corporal body would prove too much for him. But taking to the task at hand, they administered the only known cure... blood letting. Unfortunately, the particular demon within Pincho would prove to be very strong. Finally, after many, many blood letting session, the King stopped writhing in pain, and deathly redness of the fever turned the cool pale color of parchment. The physics declared the demon gone. But as is so often the case, when any man is inhabited by demons, the turmoil inside is often so great that they can not withstand it. So despite all evidence that the bloodletting removed the demon spirit, the King passed away. He was buried in the manner of a King, but the blood taken from his body was burned in a pyre to send the evil spirit back to the netherworld.

The death of the young King left the nation is dire straights. Not surprisingly, Pincho had not yet named an heir. Prince Dropan was quickly (and given the recent attrition of the Catalonian monarchy, somewhat reluctantly) put on the thrown. The 16 year old had no idea of how to rule a nation. But there is nothing like doing to stimulate learning (an old Catalonian phrase). Dropan quickly fell into his role, although it should be noted that he always wore a ring of pure silver around a chain on his neck to ward off Demons.

The turmoil in the palace obviously affected the international standing of Catalonia. Further attempts at gaining influence in Navarre were only mildly effective. But gold has no such restrictions, and Barce-Lona soon became a thriving port.
 

THE KINGDOM OF GRANADA - African Pagan

King Sanchez

Diplomacy: Murcia (ea)

Granada continued its meteoric rise from the ashes to an international center. Trade flowed in and out of Ipo, as several nations wished to ply their wares in the nation. Sanchez ruled over the Kingdom during a time of prosperity. His only disappointment being that his wife did not give him any more children.

The two most important events were a thorough counting of all the chickens and sheep in the Kingdom, laboriously conducted by Lord Tabor, and an economic alliance with Murcia brokered by the King himself.
 

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH (previously the Imperial Republic of Rome) - Roman Catholic

Pope P. Scipo

Diplomacy: none

King I. Claudius had a vision. A man, yet not a man, sent by God, not Gods, but one God, who walks upon the Earth and dies for the sins of all men. This vision was disturbing, for it went against all that he knew. But Claudius was not one to disregard a vision from the Gods... well, from God. Quite messages were sent out. A response came from Syracuse. King Axeres had had the same dream! Claudius became a man possessed. Yet he realized that his possession were exactly what kept him from fulfilling his destiny. For he was a vessel of God, and no man can serve both Rome and God. Soon, King Axeres came to Rome for a meeting with Claudius. Claudius called Prince P. Scipo to him and told him of his plan. Scipo who had always followed Claudius' commands with great reverence, bowed before him and kissed his ring, promising to uphold the Word of God in all things. That very night was born the Roman Catholic Church. In his first act as Pope, Claudius baptized P. Scipo, who then baptized Claudius. Then together they baptized King Axeres.[GM note: this eventually led to two of the most challenging trivial pursuit questions ever. 1) who was the first man baptized into the RCC and 2) which Pope ascended to the Holy See without being baptized. Remember, you learned it here first.]

The next morning, King, now Pope, Claudius addressed the Imperial Republic of Rome for the last time.

"Friends, Romans, Countrymen... listen to me! I have heard the word of God, and I now pass that word to you. There is but one God. His son..."

The Pope spoke for 5 hours to a rapt crowd in Rome. He then proceeded to order the construction of a section of Rome to serve as a center of the new Catholic Church. He returned the rule of Rome, Latium, Campania and Tuscany to regional control, and took up residence on the Seat of St Peter. He was pleased to learn that the true Word of God had spread thoughout the old Kingdom and to the entire nation of Sicily. The religion was less successful elsewhere in the Med, but along the Adriatic Sea and the islands to the West there were many converts. Specifically, Slovenia, Carinthia and Corsica converted to the new faith. Several other regions had proportions of their population convert.

Over the next few weeks, Pope Claudius spelled out the tenets of the RCC:
1) Usury is acceptable
2) Women are not to hold church office. They come from Man's rib, and therefore are only a fraction of man. They can therefore not hold sway over Man's spirit.
3) Slavery is counter-productive to the growth of Man's inner spirit. Man cannot freely commit to God if his body is not corporally free.
4) Conversion of non-believers is God's will. To bring another soul to see the Word of God is to do God's work.
5) It is the responsibility of all good Christians to provide tithe to the Church.
6) To raise a hand against another Catholic is to strike at God.

After a time, word had spread of the new monotheistic religion. A man, Prince Friedrich of Bavaria, had an audience with Pope Claudius. They spoke for hours. In the end, Friedrich was baptized and took communion from the hand of Claudius. He returned to Bavaria and brought the word of God to that nation.

In year 24, after many exhaustive years as Pope, Claudius died peacefully in bed. During his burial ceremony, Scipo, now Pope, spoke of Claudius being brought before God and his son. Scipo speaks of Pope Claudius being embraced by them and welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven for Claudius was the great prophet who brought the Word of God to Earth. Saint Claudius was cannonized in year 25.
 

THE DUCHY OF LOMBARDY - European Pagan

King Petrik

Diplomacy: Romagna (f)

King Hubrecht and Petrik continued to rule over Lombardy. The King grudgingly accepted petitions to open up trade routes with a number of nations, yet those turned away heavily outnumbered those successful. Hubrecht also ordered the building of shipyards in Verona, and began exporting Lombardy goods to other nations. In the first three years, the King had a son and a daughter, while the heir, Petrik had a son (after an earlier miscarriage). In year 21, the Royal Family was shocked when Hubrecht's son Erick was killed while learning to use a lance. But in truth, this was only the first in a series of deaths to rock the nation.

In year 23, King Hubrecht received word that while Romagna was fully brought into the nation, the man responsible, Ademar, had passed away. Within days of hearing this news, a messenger from Liguria reported that a similar fate had befallen Prince Fredrik who had been trying to convert the people of Liguria. The messenger also spoke of a new religion out of Rome that had taken hold in Liguria. Almost a third of the population now followed the Roman Catholic faith. Further information from Romagna suggested that a small portion of the region also converted to RC.

It was the death of King Hubrecht later in that year that caused the most concern. But with Petrik in the capital already running the government, there was no real danger of dissent. He quickly took the crown and continued ruling the nation. He did receive reports that a Bavarian Prince was wandering through the nation, attempting to not be noticed. King Petrik ordered him followed, but as he simply passed through to Rome, then returned, he did not order him apprehended.
 

 THE SULTANATE OF MORROCO - African Pagan

Sultan Hamir

Diplomacy: Idjil (f), Portugal (hs), Galacia (hs)

While there were rivals for Tingis' claim to be the trading capital of the world, King Hamir did not take them seriously. His nation traded with Troy to the East, Mali-Wagadu to the South and the Green Tribe to the North. No one reaced as far as the Sultanate!  The Sultan ruled over his Kingdom with great pride. His wife gave him a son in year 21 and another in year 23. There was a miscarriage in year 22, and Sara, the King's 16 year old daughter died of fever in year 24. Unfortunately, the Sultan's beloved wife who tended the girl also developed fever and died.

The King sent Abbas to Idjil to bring the region fully under Morrocan control. In this he was successful, but upon returning to Morroco, he took ill and passed away. Prince Faisal was ordered to take a fleet of warships and raid the Northern coast of Iberia and then move South to Africa. Faisal was an average admiral, but he had the pride of the Morrocan navy, 6 ships of the fleet, with him. He rapidly fell upon the fertile lands of Portugal, where he sent sailor inland to take all that they could carry. Faisal was pleased with the efficiency of the raid, but he only netted a few gp, as Portugal was not a wealthy region. Next, he moved North to Galacia, where he hoped to reap more gold from the trade zone there. But perhaps he had grown too confident in his previous raid. For in order to get the maximum from the region, he sent almost every able bodied man inland to cart back the gold. It seems that the Portuguese had sent word that Morroco was raiding the coast, for when Faisal returned to his ships, he found them aflame. As he stood with his mouth open, the Galacians ambushed his beached sailors. Faisal had a number of men, but they were mainly sailors, not fighters. He faced over 2500 angry Galacians. There was no question of the outcome. The Morrocans were slaughtered to a man. The Prince was barely able to escape with his life. The small amounts of gold taken from the Portuguese was stolen by the Galacians.
 

THE ISLAND KINGDOM OF SICILY - Roman Catholic

King Axeres

Diplomacy: Campania (ea), Latium (fa)

Axeres had dreams. Not the wonderful dreams of wealth and reknown that he typically had, nor the nightshirt drenching dreams of being surrounded by enemy warships. Not even the more intriguing dreams of exotic women. But strange dreams, where first there are ships on the sea, like stars in the sky. Yet these ships are without substance, their sails catch no wind. One small ship sails amongst them. While it is neither as large or as well armed as the faux ships, it is of an ivory so pure it makes Axeres cry. Strangely, on the deck of the ship is the King of Rome. This one ship catches the wind and sails into Syracuse, where the King of Rome (Axeres is certain it is him, yet he is changed) floats out to the docks of Syracuse in a robe of white, and a golden miter in his hand. He hovers above Axeres and intones to him, "All the ships on all the seas are like the Gods you bow down before. Yet this ivory ship is the one true Heavenly vessel. Come to me and I will anoint you."

As you might imagine, Axeres did not share his dreams of the King of Rome ordering him to come to Rome to be anointed. But he reacted quite openly when he received a message from King Claudius of Rome telling of his own strange dreams. Axeres decides to go to Rome to meet with his fellow King. Upon his arrival, he is secreted up to King Claudius' chambers. Here in the presence of Prince Scipo, Claudius tells of his true calling. A calling to spread the true Word of God. Had it not been for his own dreams, Axeres may not have gone along, yet he realizes that this is his destined path. After being baptized by now Pope Claudius and Cardinal Scipo, he returns to Syracuse to announce the conversion of Sicily to the Roman Catholic faith.

The devout Sicilians uniformly convert to the new religion, finally finding solace in the true teachings of the One and Only God in Heaven. At the Pope's urging, Axeres sends diplomats to Campania and Latium to gain secular control over these regions.
 

THE DAUGHTERS OF THE NILE - Eye of Amen-Ra

Queen Khapri

Diplomacy: Onn (t), Faiyum (ea), Thinis (nt); Levant (pt)

Queen Khapri did not have the bloodlust that infused Queen Amhosis. She did not wish to pursue any further actions with Rhodes. But Levant was a different matter. For it was one thing to face an army in battle and fight gloriously. It was quite another when a region under the Nile's thumb revolts. Levant would be brought back in line. 3000 mercenaries, both cavalry and infantry were hired, and the feudal ally from Sinai was ordered to regain control of Levant. This was done in very short order. While losses were moderate in the mercenaries, Levant was subjugated. On orders of the Queen, the region was raided for slaves, and a number of Jewish slaves were transported to Chethosk [GM note: as one might imagine, the slaves had to PASSOVER the desert in Sinai].

Messengers from Onn called on Khapri. It was well known that the Daughters of the Nile were strong believers in the African Pagan ways, but there was a small sect of Pagans in the Nile who followed more strict interpretation of Pagan rites, known as Amen-Ra. It was long believed that Khapri and many of those close to her followed this sect. While the Nile had a small number of followers, they were more plentiful in the Kingdom of Lower Egypt.  While the Sinai ally was fighting in Levant, Queen Khapri and King Djoser (another follower of Amen-Ra) together declared the Eye of Amen-Ra to be the official religion of both nations. Further the Nile would make every effort to annex Lower Egypt, while Djoser would become the High Priest of Amen-Ra. This was combined with a concerted effort on the part of Khapri to raise the religious ferver in the Kingdom to new heights.

The effect on the Nile was staggering. From out of the woodwork, closet followers of Amen-Ra sprang into power. Most of the core of the Nile regions converted to the new religion. Of course, several of the peripheral holding maintained their old pagan beliefs. Not surprisingly, the Sinai ally did not convert, nor did Ad' Diffah of Ghebel Gharek. The conquered region of Petra had a number of converts, and over half of the people of Yemen converted. Not surprising, the Jews in Levant were not impressed with the new religion.
 

EYE OF AMEN-RA (previously the Kingdom of Lower Egypt) - Eye of Amen-Ra

High Priest Djoser

Diplomacy: Aswan (revolts)

Within African Paganism there are a number of sects. The Hestites, who believe that the Gods of Sand and Sun are greatest (obviously more popular in the areas near the Sahara and in the desert regions). The Animists, who deify the corporal bodies of snakes, crocodiles and jackels (common along the Nile). The Phistics, the Tolomists and the Ritrights, all to the far South. But in the Kingdom of Lower Egypt, the sect with the greatest number of followers is the Eye of Amen-Ra. Under the previous dynasty, Amen-Ra had been outlawed, as a violent faction of traditional African Paganism, due to its strong belief that the other followers of AFP should be eliminated. But with the rise of Djoser to power, there came a relaxation of the secular restrictions against Amen-Ra. More and more, a piercing eye, the symbol of Amen-Ra, could be seen painted on the walls in Onn, and it was not uncommon for a man drinking in a tavern to notice the symbol on a chain around a barmaids neck as she bent over to clear a table. Most thought Djoser to simply be more tolerant than his predecessors. But it was much more than that. So much more...

As time passed, rumors spread that King Djoser was more than just tolerant of Amen-Ra. Perhaps he was a follower. But time demostrated that Djoser was a moderately well positioned priest in the sect. Moreover, the rumor mill spoke of a grand intrigue with the Queen of the Nile. This became self evident with the announcement in year 21 by Queen Khapri of the Nile that the Eye of Amen-Ra would become the official religion of the Nile. Djoser at the same time announced his ascendance to the High Priesthood of the Eye of Amen-Ra. He announced that he would be focussing Amen-Ra in Onn, and that the Daughters of the Nile would attempt to annex Lower Egypt. He gave this action his blessings, and the Kingdom of Lower Egypt effectively ceased to exist. In its place was an organized offshoot of African Paganism, The Eye of Amen-Ra. With the concentration of the military into Onn, and the abandonment of the garrison in Aswan, the region revolted.

The new religion spread somewhat to the North, most noticably in Pamphyla, Capadocia and Cilisia, the latter causing the locals to revolt against their Rhodesian masters. But along the Red Sea there was greater success. Madina, Hijaz, Adulis, Alwa Yemen, Sheba and Zufer all converted. Several other regions gained smaller portions of Amen-Ra followers.

High Priest Djoser issued several precepts of the Eye of Amen-Ra.
1) The lending of money for interest was acceptable to the Gods.
2) Women would hold equal power with men.
3) Slavery will be an intricate part of the Amen-Ra culture. Especially those followers of the true forms of Paganism. Slaves could be used for work and as an economic commodity.
4) Amen-Ra will seek to eliminate all forms of Pagan influence.
5) The High Priest is the original, ultimate power for Amen-Ra. His succesors and lieutenants are hand-picked by the High Priest for loyalty and ability. The High Priest or Priestess has final say on any and all religious matters, be it economic, military, diplomatic or internal, in so far as the Religion is concerned.

GM note: This anti-pagan sentiment has altered the religious interaction table. AFP and AR are now hostile religions.
 

THE KINGDOM OF PUNT - African Pagan

King Lashik

Diplomacy: Suakin (nt), Adulis (ne),  Sennar (p, then revolts)

King Lashik opened trade with the Nile to the North, and far off Pandya to the East, via Sabae. He also, in an elaborate ceremony, declared Prince Mishamish to be heir to the throne. He then sent him off to pacify the region of Sennar.

Mishamish waited for reinforcements to arrive from Danakil, then set off with 1000 cavalry and almost twice as much infantry. He travelled over the mountains to the empty lands of Adowa, then again over the mountains into Sennar. But the mountain passes entering Sennar were treacherous, and his cavalry column became separated from the infantry, as they had to lead the horses through the narrow passes. The Sennarans struck at dawn. Arrows whistled down among the isolated horsemen. The men tried to mount, but in the mountanous terrain, they made even greater targets. Prince Mishamish, who was leading the infantry at the time, turned them around to come to the aid of the mounted troops. They arrived to find the cavalry hemmed in. But their better mobility allowed them to dig out the attackers. In all, there were less than 1500 Sennaran troops. They were beaten back, and the army was able to move into the region. The surprise attack was all that was forthcoming in defense of the region, and it was quickly pacified. All told, Mishamish lost only 200 light cavalry and 200 infantry.

When the Prince gave the order to begin enslaving the region, the locals took up arms again. Mishamish organized his men more carefully this time, as he was settled in the region, rather than coming out of the mountains. Again, the Sennarans brought about half the troops to the field that Punt had. It should be said that the local cavalry was significantly better trained than Punt, but the infantry was well matched. In looking at the defenders on the field, Mishamish knew him to be a much better general than whoever was leading the local rabble. So into the fray he went, leading his infantry. Perhaps if the battle was fought over 100 times, Punt would have been victorious. Perhaps if the wind had picked up slightly or quieted just a bit, the arrow that pierced Mishamish's shoulder would have missed. Perhaps if his fall had not been witnessed by so many of his men, they would not have lost heart. But the battle was fought only once, the arrow struck true, and the entire force saw Mishamish go down. While he was but wounded, the infantry faltered in their charge. This allowed the defenders to counter charge. The cavalry had they been better trained may have seen the opportunity to come into the fight, held back waiting for orders from the fallen prince. The Punt army retreated from the field. Sennar had won its freedom. Another 400 cavalry and 600 infantry were lost in the fighting. Mishamish returned over two mountain ranges to Zeila.

While the military assault was not successful, there was some success on the diplomatic front. A tributary relationship was struck with the Suakin region, despite the steppes being a horrendous place for poor Tarik. He put extra effort into being pleasant, as his efforts in Adulis were thwarted by the announcement that the allied leader was a member of a militant sect of African Paganism that was thriving in the North. While Adulis remained allied to Punt, they would commit to no more.

Meanwhile, at home, Lashik married and after a miscarriage in year 23, his wife gave birth to a son in year 25. Mishamish returned to the capital, but his wife spent more time tending to his wounds then in his bed, and they had no children.
 

THE KINGDOM OF IFE - African Pagan

King Krulda, Lord of the Niger

Diplomacy: Gagnoa (c), Togo (ea), Akan (ea)

King Krulda sent two contrasting messages to the leaders along the Atlantic coast. One message was delivered with words. The King travelled to Akan, the Yoroban ally went to Togo and Prince Mubaso took a wife in and negotiated with Gagnoa. All had success. But it was the other message that left a more poignant impression. Outfitting a tremendous fleet of warships, both heavy and light, with a number of quick deployment infantry, General Gimbasi went out to take slaves from a number of regions. He began in Niete, where they were able to land and quickly enter several villages along the coast, gathering up the peoples and loading them in the holds below decks. Bomi was the next stop, where Gimbasi was equally effective.

While sailing to the South along the coast, Gimbasi took ill. The first mate decided to return to Ife, as Gimbasi was unable to command the fleet. By the time they had arrived, it was too late. Gimbasi had died. The slaves were unloaded, and for his prompt decisive action, the first mate was promoted.

In other news of the Kingdom, the King had a daughter in year 24 and a port area was built in the region of Yoruba.
 

THE KINGDOM OF MALI-WAGADU (previously the Kingdom of Songhai) - African Pagan

King Lasaka Haru

Diplomacy: Segu (aw)

Several events of significance occured in the Kingdom. First, was the official change in the name of the Kingdom. Next, was the marriage of Kalimansa, Royal Princess, to Lasaka Haru, the general. Further, Lasaka was named heir to the throne. Mansa Masu also had the prisoner, the leader from Ghalam brought before him.

"You have lived your life in blackness. Let us enlighten you." He then had the Mali-Wagadu historians relate the ancient tales of both Mansa's Kingdom, and the history of the Ghalam people to the prisoner. They spoke of a claim by the Ghalam people over the lands of Segu. The King then ordered the bonds cut from the man. He looked at the King bewildered.

"I will give you a chance to claim Segu for your people. You were brought here as loot from a battle. By all rights you are my slave. But I give you freedom, and a chance to serve." The King then invited Lasaka Haru to join them, and he described his plan. The prisoner from Ghalam realized he was being given a chance to serve the Kingdom, either as a slave or a free man. He choose the latter, and was made a lieutenant of the King.

Soon, the new lieutenant and the new heir had gathered a host together of almost 1500 cavalry, over 500 infantry and several hundred siege engineers. They crossed into Segu, where they engaged the local defenders. But the Segans had recently faced Songhai troops in battle, and they were well led. They again had 2500 men, 1000 of which were cavalry, plus fortifications. But more importantly, the Segans were man for man, better fighters than the Mali-Wagadu warriors. Both sides engaged in the open plains of Segu, and after a mere few weeks of conflict, it became clear that the defenders would carry the field. The M-W forces retreated in some degree of disarray, and when rallied by the heir, were reduced to 1/3 of the cavalry, 2/5 of the infantry and 1/2 of the siege engineers. Lasaka reported back to the King that to take Segu, he would need 5 times the forces he had.

There was sadness in the Royal House, as the Queen died in year 21. Her death acted as a catalyst throughout the nation, as she was well liked. Pagan rights in her honor were practiced throughout the Kingdom, as the population became frenzied with religious ferver.