Lords of the Earth 34

The Dawn of Civilization

Year 64 - 66

Turn 15

Title for the turn:

“A King goes off to war…”

alternative title:

“Be careful who you invite to dinner…”

August 6, 2002

Turns will be due ???.

GM notes:

This was a one heck of an educational experience.  As I continue to run turns, I certain that this process will only speed up.  I can say that one of the biggest hurdles is how people are handling movement in their orders.  The times I wasn’t confused were for and few between.  To help resolve this, I’ll be posting a sample copy of orders for all of you to take a look at.  In the future, if I can’t figure out what’s going on, I won’t contact you, I just wont process your orders.  That being said, for the next few turns I’ll do everything I can to help clear up any questions you might have and will make sure you get a good feel for where I’ve had problems so that there aren’t issues moving foreword.

CCR and AP ranges for nations are going to be off issue.  In the coming turn I’ll be taking a look at CCR for open nations and the control webs for those Religious Primates, oh and any SE’s out there (if they exist).  It would behoove you to take a look at them and make any adjustments.  If you’ve questions around your CCR or control web, please let me know and we’ll work through them together.

All in all, the turn processing went fairly well.  I may have missed a item now and then, so don’t hesitate in contacting me with changes or questions.

Thanks for your understanding and now on with the show!

Troop Conversions

                    Infantry 200 men = 1 point

                    Cavalry 200 men and 200 mounts = 1 point

                    Siege Engineers 200 men = 1 point

                    Warships 1 ship = 1 point

                    Transports 1 ship = 1 point

                    Field forts 1 fort = 1 point

                    Walls 10 feet = 1 point

Mercenaries available for next turn:

Condotierri: 3i, 2xi, 1c, 1s, 1w, 2t

QRs: i5, w5, s4, c5

Mercenaries hired for this turn: none

THE EMPIRE OF THE SUN   (Asiatic Pagan)

Empress Ariko

Diplomacy: Kagoshima (F)

The Empress freed funds to be used to properly cultivate the region of Aichi.  “We must feed the people and why should we not use the latest teaching”.  So it was said, so it was done.  The Empress did not stop there, funds where distributed amongst many segments of the Empires inner-workings.  Additionally, the Empires plans for the region of Yamaguchi came to fruition in the year 66 when the last of the canals and locks where completed.  Whilst the heart of the Empire remained in Kwanto.  Prince Okida, and his entourage, traveled to Kagoshima to conduct negotiations.   Prince Saga, taking part in the effort, took this opportunity to continue in the tradition of his forefathers, creating Haikus for his fellow nobles on this grand adventure.

Depressions ache, coy

Streams rusting nameless glum last

Brutalities cry.

Dragonflies glitter

Dumbly, fish sneezing, bragging

Enraptured pure ink.

Lightly roaring chasm

Glitters thirstily, cocks stamp

Coldly, extinct meek.

In the end Prince Okida, with the assistance of Daiymo Tomochi, Prince Saga, and Daimyo Takeda were ecstatic to return to the Empress with the region of Kagoshima fully joining the Empire of the Sun.

THE ANIMAL CLANS OF BO-HAI  (Asiatic Pagan)

Humble Ox, Regent for the Ruler of the Ox Clan

Diplomacy:  Yen (c )

Humble Ox, regent for the young Heir (now only seven) was not pleased with Dancing Dragon and Two-Swords Tiger’s efforts in Yen.  Though negotiations seemed to go well and the nobles of the region open to the Clans overtures, Yen was just to far for the workings of the Animal Clan to reach.  Whilst the efforts where underway in the region of Yen, Humble Ox deemed it was time to do away with the feudal relationships of the past and move towards an open Society.  His dreams through grand, would take time and effort.

THE JADE DRAGON  (Oceanic Pagan)

Emperor Shen Tso

Diplomacy:  Jiangxi (f)

The room had been commissioned at his request, seemingly perched atop the palace; it provided a view of the surrounding capitol city of Tzu Lang unlike any other.  Shen Tso, Emperor of all he pervade, reclined before the window at ease.  He held the document in his hands… Jiangxi was now fully part of the empire.  Shen Tzu had done well, even with the distraction of Li Xan chocking to death, on a piece of chicken no less, amidst the celebration dinner.  With the news of the events occurring in Jiangxi beginning to circulate, it was announced that the much-awaited birth of a daughter had occurred.  This was seen as a good omen for was it not a sign that the Emperor’s children now numbered eight!

Due to the increase in trade now passing through Tzu Chi, the outer walls had to be rebuilt to encompass the girth of the city.  Whilst construction was underway, new clean water and sewage systems where installed.  Tzu Lang, capital of the Empire was, as well, upgraded to the new systems and fountains where installed in many public squares.  The walls about Tzu Lang where upgraded as well.

The religious revival that had been experienced as of late continued, as more and more of the peasantries conviction strengthened.

THE JINN DYNASTY  (Asiatic Pagan)

Emperor Wang Xu-Jinn, Fourth Emperor of the Jinn Dynasty, Guardian of the

Forbidden City and Keeper of the Coral Throne

Diplomacy:  Shan ‘Si (f), Huang (fa)

As Wang Xu-Jinn stayed on top of the scribes and hanger-on’s about the Palace, he dispached Szu Shen-Do to Huang and Shen Yuan off to Shan’Shi.  Both were successful in their efforts and the empire continued to grow.

As the statesmen plied their trade, the Emperor dispatched settlers to build a city along the Huang Ho river in the region of Hopei.  As laborers worked to establish a functional port to support the empire’s demands in ages to come, the city about began to grow.  The peasants where greatly pleased with Emperor’s latest “a plow and ox for all” decree as what little land remained uncultivated within the region of Houma was put under the plow.  With peace far and wide, the population within Anshan experienced a boost and the defenses about Jin-ling where reinforced.

With prosperity and growth occurring about the empire, it was with great celebration that the Empress gave birth to a son!  Having had only daughters so far, it was easy to see why Wang Xu-Jinn was seen to strutting about the Palace after having had a chance to look upon his son!

THE SUBLIME KINGDOM OF WU  (Oceanic Pagan)

King Sui-Juen, the Beloved

Diplomacy: Taiwon (nt), Gouangxi (nt), Mison (fa)

The Kingdom was a bustle as the nobles went hither and yon.  Diplomatic Wai was successful in his efforts to convince Mison to establish “relations” with the Sublime Kingdom.  Not only was Wai successful, both Fu and Chen-Yuen where able to report success as well.

As the years progressed, the new port city of Thng Long was established in the region of Annam.  The final plots of land where put under the plow in the region of Kwangtung and additional fortifications where raised in the regions of Ganzhou.

Mercenaries available for next turn:

Condotierri: 1xei, 4i, 2xi, 1c, 1xc, 1s, 2w, 2t

QRs: i5, w5, s4, c4

Mercenary Captain Plutarch (M152)

Mercenaries hired for this turn:  none

THE LAND OF THE GOLDEN LOTUS   (Oceanic Pagan)

King Siduna, God-King of Chola, Lord of the Golden Mask and the Emerald Throne

Diplomacy:  none

Open Position

THE KINGDOM OF KHEMER  (Oceanic Pagan)

King Marfuss Alhamehli

Diplomacy:  none

Open Position

THE CONCLAVE OF THE GANGES  (Oceanic Pagan)

King Rana, Rightful King of the Conclave of the Ganges

Diplomacy: Nasik (c ), Nadavaria (f)

“The flowering friendship between the Nation of Gaur and the Conclave was coming along nicely”, King Rana thought to himself.  Now if only the efforts around Nadavaria would proceed as planned, this would be a very good year.  With that thought, King Rana dispatched a protected caravan with the committed boxes of gold.  As they left for the Guar capital, the King let it be known that his loyal advisors Udashar, Rasalantar, and Junda should attend the royal presence forthwith.  Once all where present, King Rana informed his three advisor that they where about to take a trip, in his presence no less!  The King, his royal advisor’s and a smattering of guards (to the tune of no less than 4000!) made their way to the region of Nadavaria to assure an easy and uneventful transition of control.

As it happened, this occurred… surprisingly, without issue.  In fact, the nobles and peasantry of the region  not only welcomed the transition with open arms, but party’s where thrown for the occasion.  To say the least, the King was really pleased!

As the rest of the boy’s where off to Nadavaria, Guta was the awarded the envious task of working his way to Nasik and attempt to convince the heathens to “find joy and prosperity within the Conclave”.  His attitude, and constant scratching, did far more to dissuade the nobles of the region than motivate them to “bear their neck” as it where.  When all was said and done, it was recognized that Nasik would be part of the Conclave, just not now.  It should also be noted, some where surprised that Guta made it out of Nasik without taking another spin on the wheel and seeing what his Karma had in store for him in the next life.

While his farther was away, Saj enjoyed the time to Rule in his stead.  Though Saj’s joy at “freedom” was tempered by “old man” Tinuri (well into his sixty’s you see), bumbling about, keeping the Conclave’s administers to the tasks at hand.  Many of the said administers would mumble to themselves, as old man Tinuri would move on, “when will that old coot die anyways?!”

With peace comes growth and so Patna, Kaunaj, Mathura and Bombay all grew.  In Bombay, this was seen as fortunate, as the city grew about the recently completed fortress.  Colonists were dispatched and the port city of Kanpur was built along the Ganges in the region of Jaunpur.  So as not to leave the nation undefended, the walls about the fortresses in Jaunpur and Uttar Pradesh where upgraded.

THE GAUR NATION  (Oceanic Pagan)

King Sajvala II

Diplomacy: Palas (f)

In an effort to increase funds for the royal treasury, and to sponsor better relations with the Conclave, the region of Nadavaria was SOLD for a impressive sum of gold.  As the baggage train from the Conclave of the Ganges arrived in the Capital, Sajavala the second went forth on a royal tour to ascertain the readiness of the empire.  As he moved about the kingdom, troops where shifted here to there.  Whilst Sajavala II was traveling about, Advaita Acarya, Rajit Chandra, and Koonchai Chownarbrah continued efforts to bring Palas fully into the empire.  After many months of conversation, negotiations, and (behind the scenes) a few gifts for those in the know, Palas came fully into the Kingdom.

The “Royal Postal Network” continued it’s expansion, with much celebration by the scribes about the palace, as the leg from Assam to the region of Burma was completed.  As well, merchants from the ports of Sajvala and Merdic where refused access to Golden Lotus ports, it seems there was a mix up within the Golden Lotus and the stamps and writ’s of access had not been issued.

THE ISLAND KINGDOM OF JAVA  (Oceanic Pagan)

King Luito II

Diplomacy: Luzon (c )

 Luito the Second, King and Ruler of the Island’s was just plane ticked off!  Did he not marry Luzon’s “Big Kahona’s” daughter?!  Why did they not admit the power of the sea hold?  Or was it something else, hmm…?  Well, no matter, we’ll just give it another try and if they choose not to take this wonderful advantage we’ll just have to see…  how about them apples!

While King Luito II remained in Sunda, ruling, Captain Plutarch, a staunch supporter of the Kings was dispatched to join with Lord Timor already on Luzon.  As events where to unfold; it became very clear that the Captain was not as “staunch” as once thought.  You see, though Lord Timor waited as long as he could before beginning the negotiations, the Captain was never to arrive.  An answer was to be found though, as a “Great Captain” was to announce his services for hire in northern waters later that year.  Needles to say, things did not go well in Luzon.  The Chief let it be known that the Kingdom, though strong, was too distant for their likes, “how could you protect our shores” was the question at court.  In the end, after two years of strenuous conversation, the Island of Luzon refused to take further action.  “Perhaps in a few years… good Lord Timor” was all the Chief was willing to say.

With events still unfolding to the east, the Kingdom seemed to throw off the sloth of years and activity abound.  The city’s of Jambi, Kendiri, Sunda, Siriwuaya, Melaka, and East Timor all grew.  The regions of Jambi, Palembang and Perak were to have fresh lands put under the plow as well.  In all, the Kingdom was a very busy place.

Mercenaries available for next turn:

Condotierri: 3xc

QRs: c4

Mercenaries hired for this turn: 1xei, 8xi, 24i, 6c, 12xc, 2w, 1hw, 2t (Rhodes)

THE KINGDOM OF INDUS  (Oceanic Pagan)

King Nahen, King of the Scythians

Diplomacy:  Sukkur (f), Mand (revolts)

Lord Hasan, of the region of Sukkur, had made a great impression within the Indus court.  To point, the King was overheard on occasion, that the men of the realm should look to him as an example of “good man”.  It surely didn’t help that the king’s own daughter had taken a liking to the man himself.  It seemed that a merger of the two nations was destined for in the summer of ’64 the marriage of the two was announced.  With that, Lord Hasan now became Prince Hasan and moved on into the Palace.  The region, so overjoyed at the blessed event, for was this not a sign from the God’s themselves, joined fully with the Great Kingdom.

As the nobles played about the capital, Lord of Fars, Feudal Ally to the King, acted upon his King’s request.  Further raids where to be conducted to the west and south.   Now that was a document well received from the capital!  As the spring was just beginning to be felt, Lord Farsad came raiding into Abadan, then into Kuait and back again into Abadan heading home to Fars as summer was coming to close in late ‘65.  Lord Fars, not being a short-sited man, split the much-earned booty between his troops and his king.  He knew he would have need of these men in times to come, and how else could he depend on them to come when he called?  In all, as the Lord sent his men back to their homesteads, he was filled with pride to send off a rather impressive baggage train to the capital as winter was setting in at the end of ’65.

Lord Mand, was also to receive orders similar to his neighbor to the west.  Though, instead of raiding to the west and south, he was tasked to raid to the north.  Upon receiving his dispatch from the capital, Lord Mand’s response was heard to be “He wants what?!”  Even with obvious resignation in his heart, Lord Mand was a man of honor and set forth, as Lord Farsad, in the early months of ’64.  As he crossed the mountains into Kuh’Laleh’Zar, Lord Mand and his 1500 mixed cavalry and 250 inexperienced light infantry where engaged almost immediately.  They would be harrased night and day, always driven to the north.  Unable to turn south to strike the rich belly of the region, Lord Mand and his men, where unable to take anything of value!  In the end the force would end up barely escaping into Shir Kuh to the north.  Lord Mand would fair no better in that wilderness far from home.  To point, he would lay his life down attempting to rally his infantry against the wild men.  The Lord and his infantry where slaughtered to a man and it was with regret that his body was not recovered, nor his sword and shield.  As the contingent of mixed cavalry came limping back over the mountains bordering the region of Mand, most would come to be surprised they made it back at all after their story was told.  Lord Mand’s son, left behind to lead the garrison and protect the homesteads of those raiding north, was shocked to find himself the new Lord of Mand.  As the men, ragged from their trials look on, their new Lord new he must act or forever loose their respect.  “We have seen the way Indus would throw our strength against the wall and with triviality.  We shall no longer bear their tribute!”  As it was said, so was it done and the region of Mand would consider itself no longer part of the Indus Kingdom.

With all that had occurred in the last few years, it was decided that a fortress would be built to aid in securing the capital.  Though it was built on the outskirts of the city, undoubtedly, in time the capital would grow to encompass the fortress.

THE KARA-KHATAI KINGDOM  (Asiatic Pagan)

King Orion

Diplomacy: Kuldja (f)

King Orion was a crafty sort, though he was unsure if Prince Garth had truly experienced a visit by the Avatar of the Goddess Avrhaama, he did understand how such a story, once spread, would impact the populace.  It was with this in mind that he dispatched Lord Krull and Lord Zaban, as well as, Prince Garth to the region of Kuldja.  With them went funds, scholars, engineers, and the such required to build a city.  Prince Garth, head of the delegation, would, with conviction, speak of his encounter with the Avatar (now fully believing and rejoicing in his experience).  Wherever he would travel, during the delegations time within the region, the villagers and nobles, would bow before him recognizing him for having been blessed by the Goddess Avrhaama.  King Orion had dictated that a city would be built upon the site where the Prince had conversed with the Avatar into the night.  The city of Kuska, as it was to be known, would be dedicated to the Goddess Avrhaama.  As well, the foundation for a shrine to the Goddess was laid and, though it would take some years to complete, the religious fervor that it created could be felt in the villages throughout the region.  To point, this newfound conviction seemed to spread throughout the Kingdom as a whole.  The very religious foundation of the Kingdom, it seemed, was about to change.

It was with no surprise that the Kuldja Sheik leapt at the chance to tie his family to the King Orion’s, when Prince Garth suggested that, “something might be arranged, if he was interested of course”.  With the acceptance and newfound loyalty by the Sheik (and being part of the family sure didn’t hurt), the region came fully into the Kingdom.

As efforts continued on the eastern border, King Orion commanded the Port of Baudar to be constructed within the region of Gurgan on the Caspian Sea.  It was hoped that trade would flow between Patzinak and the Kingdom.  If nothing else, the fishing was unsurpassed!

The capital was not to be spared as efforts continued on both borders.  Plans where drawn up and forced labor applied as fountains, sewers, and the like began to pop up all over the city.

THE KINGDOM OF PERSIA  (Asiatic Pagan)

King Ardavan

Diplomacy: none

King Ardavan was furious!  Furious that a prince of the realm was a hostage for a Diyala chief no less!  He dispatched Lord Thargus to the region with a sizable contingent of men under arms to assure the Diyalans chose to proceed in an honorable fashion.  It was with joy that Kaspon was released without issue, once the boxes of gold had been opened to assure their contents where not rocks.  Kaspon would return to the capital with and, with the King’s blessing, take some much-needed time off.

As the hostage situation was resolving itself, the King dispatched a great number of settlers, oxen, seed, and the such to the region of Tabaristan.  Cultivation could be seen far and wide as the region as a whole was put under the plow.

In an effort to bring the regions of Media more fully into the Kingdom, Thargus was dispatched at the end of ’65 to talk of the true faith.  Needless to say, with what little time he was able to spend within the region, nothing was accomplished.  Now only if he had had more time and, “achmm”<gm clearing throat>, perhaps a bit of gold to help the “conversion” along things might have been different.

The religious events to the northeast were of great interest to the Prince Regent and Heir.  Zand would receive many a dispatch from the Kingdom’s merchants informing him of events to the northeast.  At one point, Prince Zand was pleased to have received a response to a letter he had written to the Prince Garth of Kara-Khitai.  The letter, and it’s telling of the Prince’s experience, the conversations, and all that had occurred, would have a significant impact upon the Prince.  It was with no surprise, once the story began to filter across the border with their neighbor to the northeast that the populace would react as well.  Attendance at temples where up, and figurines of the Goddess Avrahaama where being sold in the marketplace like hotcakes!  The Kingdom of Persia was it seemed, as well, ready for a religious upheaval… only time would tell.

THE MONARCHY OF PATZINAK  (Asiatic Pagan)

King Alexander II

Diplomacy: none

Open Position

THE KINGDOM OF CARCHEMISH   (African Pagan)

King Asher

Diplomacy: Lebanon (f)

The King’s attention was solely upon the region of Lebanon in ’64 and ’65.  To aid in the convincing the region to join fully with the Kingdom, scholars, mapmakers, and engineers where dispatched to layout a series of way stations.  The effort would take two years to complete but by it’s completion regular dispatches where passing between the Palace and Beryut.  In time, it was even remarked, that with the completion of the project many would not be surprised to a formal road completed in the near future to accommodate the merchant traffic.  Heck, it would help as well if rapid troop movements where required.

As the way stations where being established, King Asher joined the nobles in Lebanon to continue conversation around the Kingdom and their intentions.  With the regular dispatches arriving and merchants keenly aware of what a road could mean for business, the King had little difficulty convincing the nobles to join the Kingdom fully.

THE ISLAND KINGDOM OF RHODES  (Oracle of Delphi)

King Agis

Diplomacy: Crete (ea)

In February of 64 Agis, King of the Island Kingdom of Rhodes, calls his leader and representatives to Atlantis to the great temple of Delphi, overlooking the Bay.  Below, in the late winter wind, is the largest armada ever gathered by a Rhodian King, at anchor in the azure waters of the bay.  In the barracks, and encamped about the city are a horde of mercenaries gathered from all over the Middle East.  The great Oracle makes sacrifices to the most favored god of Rhodes, Apollo.  As the ceremony nears closure, the Oracle leans over to discern a meaning within the remains of the offering.  As she leans in, a humming could be heard, as if the very air begins to vibrate.  As the gathered crowd begins to look about in concern, wondering if an earthquake is about to occur perhaps, a CLAP of seeming thunder strikes from the very center of the altar upwards to the Seers eyes!  As screams of the crowd rise in the air, Jessica, high priestess and the Oracle of Delphi, stagers back, blood streaming from her eyes.  King Agis rushes to her side, as his guard position them selves about, driving the terrorized crowd back.  The King cradles Jessica’s head in his arms as he asks, “What happened High Priestess, what did you see?”

“I have seen nothing… and everything my son!” she extorts looking upon him with empty orifices where her eye’s once where.

With this auspicious occurrence preceding the departure of the Rhodean forces, there was much talk if this was a good omen or bad? 

Mercenaries available for next turn:

Condotierri: 2i, 2c, 2xc, 2w, 2t

QRs: i5, w4, s4, c4

Blodgett of Avalon (M553, age 38)

Mercenaries hired for this turn: 2w, 2t (UTFK)

THE KINGDOM OF TROY  (Oracle of Delphi)

King Theseus

Diplomacy: Abasigia (c )

King Theseus remained in the capital in 64 and 65, ruling.  Lord Pericles was dispatched, moving troops, hither and yon.  Lord Agememnon, drawing the short tick of the bunch, spent two years in Abasigia attempting to convince the local nobility of Troy’s might.  Though no major guffaws occurred, and the region did not go to war over the Lords actions, the region attitudes towards Troy did not change.

Prince Paris, after spending four months at sea, arrived in Delphi.  He had brought together one of the largest fleets seen in the last few years on the Mediterranian.  In Delphi, he would meet the High Priestess Jessica Fadon and one of her subordinates Helena Jofor.  The Oracle had also brought a significant amount of men.  As the men began to embark upon the heavy transports in the bay, Prince Paris once again looked upon his charts.  As he examined their route and taking into account the time of their departure, he realized something was amiss.

“High Priestess and Oracle of the Gods, might we speak?”

“How might I help you, son of Troy… I see the loading of our troops has already begun?”

“True, milady, but the question I have is who’s rudders did you use in the planning of this expedition, oh messenger of the Gods?”

“Why I am uncertain… if need be I can call for my scribes?  What is of issue?”

“After looking upon Troy’s latest charts for our destination, and the route that has been chosen, I can now say we cannot leave this year or next?”

“WHAT?!”

“The Skaggerak Sea has been left out of the planning of this expedition, milady.”

“WHAT are you saying Prince of Troy!?”

“We cannot leave this year or next, High Priestess.  We would arrive at the mouth of the great river only to be driving back into the North Sea as the winters set in at the end of 65!  If we depart now, we would sentence the fleet, and all involved, to death.”

Needless to say, people where not pleased.  Especially the cartography section, where later, you could hear them yelling “Skagger-what?”

THE KINGDOM OF GREECE  (Oracle of Delphi)

Queen Delphinia Zecharias

Diplomacy: Epirus (nt)

The clouds had been gathering all day, with the wind picking up as it blew in off the Ionian Sea.  The after noon sun, breaking through here and there, as the clouds seemed to pass above her head, see could clearly see how the sea was beginning to froth and foam.  Lord Anthony’s warships where beginning to gently role as they lay at anchor in the port of Athens.  In the distance, Queen Delphinia Zecharias, ruler of all Greece, could see the storm clouds gathering in the distance.  Still in the far distance, lighting could be seen.  Already the fishing skiff’s where heading into the welcoming arms of the Athens port.  “Milady, we’ll have rain this evening” the lady in waiting said, as she turned away from refreshing the Queen’s goblet with wine.  “True Cyma, true…” the Queen said as she strode to the railing of the balcony, her diaphones robes flowing in the wind and goblet in her left hand.  As she watched the clouds, the chaotic shapes began to take familiar form. Was that not an arm raised high… and there… a man in a strange garb of war upon hoarse back.  As she watched a great battled upon a plan marked here and there with the fortifications of war became clear.  Pennants flew in the air as a wall of men rushed foreword to engage their enemy.  As the two forces meet, a great flash occurred as lighting twisted amongst the clouds, as the lighting cleared, she could see the defenders falling back, being overwhelmed, falling to their opponents.  In the last a Knight… no a King stood with his retainer about him seeming to hold the sweeping flow of men at bay by his will alone.  His men rallied to his call and yet, in the end, the strange banners, unrecognized by the queen, surged forward taking all before them…

…from a seeming distance the Queen could hear… “Are you well milady”.  The Queen, distracted for but a moment, turned to Cyma to reassure her.  When she had looked back, all that she saw was the storm.  Rolling black clouds, with rain falling in the distance, upon the sea.  With concern, and a growing sense of dread, the Queen, exiting the balcony into the palace, called for her advisors and the local Oracle of Delphi’s representative, to attend her!  She knew what she had seen was happening out in the world and she was concerned.

Agents coming and going with news of the world, would keep the lights burring about the Palace throughout the night as the Queen would spend ’64 and ’65 ruling from Palace above Athens.

Even as the Prince Regent, Robert Zechais, would remain in the field and securing Attica’s defenses, the story of the Queens subsequent meeting with her advisors and representatives from the Oracle, spread like a wild fire amongst the populace of the Kingdom.  Attendance at temples was up and the love, respect, and though most wouldn’t admit it, a little fear of the Queen was felt by many within the Kingdom.  “The God’s have blessed Her”, was a toast heard often in the drinking establishments throughout the empire by the end of 65.

As events where unfolding, Lord Anthony would leave upon his transport with supply’s, engineers, and equipment necessary build the port city of Corinth, on the Ionian Sea, within the region of Morea.  The Lord would complete his task with his standard efficiency and, by the end of 64, would be patrolling the sea just off Athens.

Lord Bartholomew was dispatched to the region of Epirus to communicate the Queens interest in determining the local Lords plans for the future.  Though conversations went well, the Nobles of the region where reluctant to extend their commitments far.  It would take time, but Lord Bartholomew felt they could be won over in time.

THE ORACLES OF DELPHI  (Oracle of Delphi)

Oracle Jessica Fadon of Delphi

Diplomacy:

As the events within the great Temple of Delphi instigate a intensifying of the priesthoods faith and effort.  As well, once the story has spread into the populace, the Oracle herself was looked upon with great respect and awe by the common man.

Justine is dispatched to Egypt to help those who have lost their way.  In the end she would be really unsuccessful, considering the time lag to get message back and forth between the region and the Holy City, this should be of no surprise.

The Priestess Chrys Domaphatera, once she makes landfall at Trieste, begins to work her way inland to aid the Punt and Rhodean forces.  In the wilds of Carinthia, she is seduced by the simple people and their faith in the world about them.  In the end, Chrys denounces her faith and life of service and joins the people of Carinthia living a life of peace.

THE KINGDOM OF UNITED LITHUANIA-UKRAINE (KULU)  (Druids of the Olde Gods)

King Nicholas II

Diplomacy: Chernigov (f), Novgorod (a)

The Kingdom remained at peace as war ragged across much of Europe.  It was with the future in mind that King Nicholas II released funds from his coffers to be invested within the realm.  With the additional scribes and the such, the Kingdom was able to see increased flow of gold.  “Hey, this bookkeeping thing really works” King Nicholas was overheard to say.  The people of Tepes where overjoyed to see a series of small fountains built within the city proper.  No longer would they have to walk to the river for water.

Whilst the King was “busy” at court, Krucha and Boris where working their magic in regions far and wide.  To point, the region of Novgorod allied them selves with the Kingdom, bringing no small amount of men the game.  The peasants in Chernigov where envious of their brothers in Tepes and where hoping that some of the same “wonders of technology” might be coming their way.

THE UNITED TRIBES OF THE FOREST KINGDOM (UTFK)  (Druids of the Olde Gods)

King Nikoli, Bearsticker

Diplomacy: none

Nikoli Bearsticker, King of the UTFK, remains in Friesland until August as his Lieutenats and Lords move about the Kingdom repositioning the UTFK forces.  Duran, Heir to the throne, will remain in Lorien in 64 and 65, ruling the Kingdom.

Lord Baldric, having traversed the seas from Himmelstadt to the North Sea, will arrive out well off Graanderen in time to see the taking of King Hamish.  He realizes that all is for not and quickly turns the ships about, beating a quick retreat back to the capital.

The news of the slaughter of the UTFK forces in Friesland, and that King Nikoli is dead, sweeps through the capital like a wild fire near the end of 65.  The Prince Regent, and Heir, Prince Duran quickly takes command of the troops garrisoned within the city and prepares for any question of his assumption of the throne.  His concerns are for not, as his ascension to the throne goes uncontested.

DRUIDS OF THE OLDE GODS   (Druids of the Olde Gods)

Lilith, Gothrithar of the Druids, beloved of the Gods

Diplomacy: Norhtumbria (ab)

While investigating the region of Bavaria, after having come into the know of a number of rumors, Lilith was shocked to find that cow mutilations where up across the region and that geometric shapes had begun to appear in corn fields just outside Munich.  Something was amiss…

Katla, a Druid of the first circle, was dispatched to Brittany to aid in dealing with that regions question with their faith.  In attempting to raise an Abbey, the region’s splitter belief in the D.O.G. faith was a hurdle that could not be overcome.  Katla would report back to Himmelskstad of the troubles and her concerns that the region’s Heresy might expand and grow.

While Hvati was successful in getting the region behind the building of an Abbey in Northumbria, Aelfgifu failed in her attempt at the same in Sussex.

Europe A Flame

In the Year of our Lord (pick one) 64;

March:

A report that a cache of weapons (of northern design) had been seized in a raid on a suspected rebel hideout will just miss King Hamish, of Alba, as he departs Holland for Scone.  In attendance, and with orders of their own, would go Princes Moira and Lieutenant Blaine.  With their departure Awliff of the Shetlands, ally to the Alban king, remained in Grannderen with 6 of his light ships of war.

Some 4100 heavy cavalry and 8100 heavy infantry, under the French General Adalhard, march into Nivernais.  They’ll continue to the north, shadowing the Lorraine border with France.

The over 33,000 of mixed infantry that make up the Cuman Horde begins to move north, with French guides pointing the way.

In Alsace, the Bavarian King Christian and his trusted General Otto are just sitting down to, what is hoped to be, fruitful negotiations with the Nobles of Alsace.  It is with shock that a message is received that a host of Lorraine forces have crossed the border and are, even now, bearing down on the Bavarian encampment. King Christian, with the aid of his General Otto and the Mercenary Kevin of the Green Tribe, recently having joined the Bavarian forces (for a fee of course), now ready what forces they have at hand.  The Prince, and Heir of the Lorraine throne, Aethelwulf leads the over 23,000 all cavalry army (some 2,000 heavy Dragoons, veterans all, 15,000 heavy cavalry, 4,800 standard cavalry, and 1,200 light cavalry) as they begin to array themselves against the 6,970 mixed cavalry and infantry units (3,600 heavy Lancers, veterans all, 500 Royal Lancers, 480 standard cavalry, 1,200 heavy veteran infantry, 390 veteran infantry, and 800 standard infantry) that make up the Bavarian forces now positioned within Alsace.  With over a three to one advantage and an all cavalry force for the Lorraine forces, the battle is heavily one sided.  Though the Bavarians are able to rally and their infantry able to form the square necessary to survive against their enemy, it is not enough.  Kevin of the Green Tribe falls early in battle, leading a charge to hold the Lorraine Heavy Dragoons from taking the Bavarian colors, in the first moments in battle, and allow the Bavarian King Christian to fall back with them in hand.  As the battle continues, it is obvious that the Bavarian must fall back and King Christian so orders, heady for the high ground to the south of their encampment where Bavaria fortifications have been laid.  In the running battle the King forces are, for a moment, surrounded and, it seems, about to be eliminated, when General Otto is able to react.  Leading the remnants of Bavaians Heavy Lancers, veterans all, they are able to push back the Lorraine forces, providing the much-needed time for the color guard to withdrawal with the Bavarian King.  King Christian is wounded at this time, taking a blow to the head, and falling with colors still in hand.  General Otto dispatches some 200 of the hand picked Royal Lancers, with their wounded King, towards Munich.  “I will hold them here”, the General yells as he turns to rally the rest of the Bavarian forces and allow the Royal Lancers the much-needed time to spirit their King out of harms way.  General Otto would purchase that time with the blood of not only his men, but his own life as well.  In the end, the Lorraine would stand victorious over the battlefield. 

The Lorraine Prince Aethelwulf (with the aid of Lord Theric the Bold), having lost around 1,200 men, would now begin to solidify their hold of Alsace.

April:

As the Svear forces are sited and begin bearing down on Graanderen, the city revolts!  Over 1000 Graanderen mixed infantry, hidden in the city and who had been coordinating with Svear intelligence, came charging forth!  With the weapons supplied by the Svear, and “Lorraine” yelling forth from every mouth, not only is the Alban garrison quickly overwhelmed, but the 6 light ships of war at anchor in the harbor are set ablaze.  In the frantic close quarter combat, Awliff of the Shetlands is knocked senseless in the early moments of battle.  He would be scooped up by King Haakan and spend the rest of 64 and 65 in a Svear cell (on the upside, he wouldn’t be alone).  With the garrison overwhelmed the Svear forces, and seeing that their goal was to liberate Graanderen and Holland for Lorraine, would be able to land without contention.

Lord Bismark, of Bavaria, takes 5,800 freshly minted heavy cavalry and begins to make his way northwest towards Alsace.  He would encounter 200 Royal Lancers, riding like the devil upon their tails, with the wounded King Christian, having been tied into his saddle with lancers to either side to keep him upright.  King Christian, in a moment of lucidity, commands Lord Bicmark to hold in Fanconia and leverage the fortifications within the region to make his stand.  “Give us the time we need to ready Munich’s defenses” are his Kings orders.  Lord Bismark goes about reading a defense, as the Royal Lancers depart for Munich, supporting their King.

General Adalhard’s forces are now into Vermandois, swinging to face the Brabant/Lorraine border with France.

The Cuman Horde enters Orleans and settles the region with no resistance.  The French guides are surprised to see these actions, and immediately leave to warn the King.  Ajold, leaves them go spoiling for a fight.

Once Lorraine has it’s firm control of Alsace, Snits revolts against the 1,200 Bavarian infantry now garrisoning the city.  With aid from the forces in Alsace, the city easily overcomes the garrison.  There is much fanfare as the Prince Regent, and Heir, Aethelwulf parades through the liberated city.  The Lorraine army, with their scouts on the frontier, has yet to see a response from the Bavarians, nor would they in 65.

May:

King Haakan, supported by Lord Torkell Dark Eye and Lord Gnur, begin coordinating with the Graanderen forces so that they are prepared to meet any reaction from the Alba forces outside the city. Captain McDermott, now commanding officer of the remaining Abla forces in Holland, makes a command decision with the little information he has.  Being unaware of the Svear forces now landing in the Port, Captain McDermott decides the revolt of Graanderen must be put down.  The Captain, not the most brilliant tactician, launches an assault with 1200 mixed cavalry, 1600 infantry, on, what he believes is, a lightly defended city.  King Haakan, directing the Graanderen forces which now number over 8000 of mixed infantry with a core of Svear heavy infantry and the Home Guard from Ivarvold, veterans all, decides to let the Cavalry into the Graanderen, hoping to leverage the tight streets, where his Infantry will have the advantage.   The fighting between the Alba and Svear forces is fierce and short in nature.  King Haakan is surprised by the few looses suffered by his forces as the Alban attackers are completely eliminated.

General Adalhard and the French forces of mixed cavalry and infantry attack into Brabant, looking to pacify the region.  Messages relating to the attack in Orleans and recalling the general have been dispatched, but will take time to reach him.

King Ajold positions his forces and then attacks into Il De France.  His goal being the complete subjugation of the city of Paris!

June:

General Adalhard receives the message from Paris of the Hordes attack into Orleans and recall to Paris.  He disengages from battle with Lorraine forces and falls back into France.  He will attempt to force march his men hoping to reach Paris in time.

The summer heat was rippling over the Adriatic Sea as Prince Philipedees of Rhodes, after receiving reports from his foreword warships that Trieste is without walls and seeming undefended, turns from attempting a landing on the coastline and takes Trieste uncontested.  The Prince wastes no time and immediately begins the debarkation of some 8,000 condotierri which where made up of primarily infantry with a smattering of standard cavalry and mounted scouts.

July:

As Prince Philipedees is pushing into the region of Slovenia, Lord Periander of Rhodes takes up the governing, and defending, of Trieste.  At about this time, Basil (a Priest of Delphi) lands in Trieste with a force of mounted condotierri upon Rhodean warships to aid in the task ahead.

Lord Brogia (a noble of the Kingdom of Lombardy) enters the region of Slovenia, with garrison forces for Trieste, and realizes that forces from Rhode’s already occupy the region and the city.  Seeing that he’s outnumbered 4 to 1, he immediately withdraws to Verona and readies defenses in case Rhodes attacks the Kingdom.

August:

Early in the month of August, Princess Moria, after traveling hither and yon, is about to make landfall at the port city of Graanderen.  She is expecting to find the city still under control of their Alban ally Awliff of the Shetlands.  As she’s ready to lower sail and begin to enter the harbor, she gets a better view of the ships at anchor.  Where she had expected to see 6 light ships of war, she finds 20 ships of varied make, all flying the Svear flag!  Princes Moria attempts to come full about, in an effort to run.  It would not be, as the ships of war, having spotted her before she becoming aware of them, begin to move out.  It is a race of inches and a rower’s effort.  In the end, the Princess of Moria comes about to close hoping to take a few of the enemy with her.  The battle would be short and sweet, with the Princess Moria’s body never recovered.

Later that same month, King Hamish, having collected 20 heavy transports, with a screening force of 6 light warships, would suffer the same fate.  Again they hove into view of the port only to find it in an enemy’s hands.  This time, there would be no race, for the heavy transport, though empty of cargo, maneuvered like pigs.  King Hamish would not suffer the same fate as the Princess, he would be captured during the battle and join Awliff of the Shetlands in an Svear cell.

Nikoli Bearsticker, King of the UTFK, takes 3,900 sappers and crosses the Friesland border into Holland marching towards Graanderen to meet up with his Alban ally’s.  As the UTFK forces make their way into the interior of Holland, all is not right, fore the Alban guides that where to have meet them never arrive.  It is with trepidation that Nikoli makes the outskirts of Graanderen to find the Lorraine flag flying over the city.  Nikoli is able to withdrawal his troops and make Freisland before the Svear and the their Ally’s are aware of their presence.  As Nikoli is leading driving his men towards, what he believes is, the security of Freisland an assassins arrow strikes at Nikoli.  The missile would barrier itself some inches in the Kings leg, missing the arteries, and sparring the Kings life.  It would take till the end of 65 for the King Nikoli to truly mend from this wound.

As Princess Moria is beginning to realize that Graanderen is occupied, the Cuman Horde have taken the region of Il De France and are now moving to encircle Paris.  King Chlodecech decides to remain behind the walls about Paris, hoping that his general can reach him before Paris falls.  With the encirclement of Paris complete, General Adalhard reaches the outskirts of the district to find a force of a little over 2 ½ times his size between him and his King.  It is a precarious moment in history, as the General weighs his honor verse what looks to be an unachievable task.  The General’s honor wins out, as he calls forth his trumpeters.  “Let those within the walls, that have hoped for our return, hear us and know that we have come!”  He yells forth.  “This is but a moment in our desperate hour, we shall go forth amongst brothers, to aid our King and children.  For the Glory of France… ATTACK!”  “FRANCE” screams forth from a little over 12,200 men as they leap foreword to engage those before them with General Adalhard leading into the fray.

It is with great joy that King Chlodocech hears the trumpets and sees the French pennants flying, as his forces charge into the mass of men that the hoard represents.  “It has come time for us to stand and deliver our due”.  The King turns to his men, holding forth his sword, “We shall go forth and aid ours to reach the safety of these walls, onward to VICTORY!”

As the King Chlodocech drives forth from Paris, his General, opposite him across the vast wave of the enemy, strikes like the head of a spear towards his King.  They would meet amidst the enemy, each having acquired numerous wounds.  Having been surprised by the French unexpected counter attack, King Ajold rally’s his troops.  He dispatches his trusted General Pankharii to leave off the building of ladders and now drive on the gates of an unprotected Paris, thereby closing off the French hoped for escape into the city.  As Pankharii rides forth to accomplish this task, Ajold calls on Tverdislav and Gan-Chinua to aid him in bring their host to bear and eliminate the French now engaged.  As Chlodocech and General Adalhard meet, the King is able to rally his men.  As the two clasp together, with the battle raging about them, King Chlodocech yells forth “I knew you would come, I knew!”  It is with no small surprise from the apposing generals as the French, seemingly unbeatable, are able to turn their men and drive for the gates of Paris where within lies the hoped for sanctuary.  But all is fore not, as at this moment Ajold, with his core of over 2200 veterans, has been able to position this exquisite tool of war for a drive on the French King and his General.  The rally, moments ago seemingly unbeatable, now begins to falter.  It is with dismay, as the citizens of Paris, from the walls, look on as the French forces are overwhelmed by the shear size of the Cuman Horde (who can be seen as for as their eyes can see) and are cut down, to a man, in the fields just outside their City’s gate. 

Paris Falls.

Prince Philipeedees finds the going hard, moving north out of Trieste, as his forces are harassed at every turn.  By the end of August, Prince Philipeedees has pacified the region of Slovenia and established a new Noble family that shall pay tribute to Atlantis before moving north into Carinthia.

October:

Prince Philipeedees finds Carinthia as difficult to move through, as Slovenia to the south.  To cease the raids and harassment, the Prince will pacify Carinthia as well.  The noble’s in the region commit a yearly tribute to save their family’s lives.  The Prince has been able to maintain a force of over 8,100 men into the region (made up of 1,600 light infantry, 200 veteran light infantry, 4,800 standard infantry, 1,300 standard cavalry, and 230 lightly mounted scouts).  It is at this time that Philipeedees is joined by Basil, Priest of Delphi, with a force of 1,800 light cavalry.  As well and with surprise, for he thought they would not make it, Prince Philipeedees throw’s a joyous welcoming feast for Lord Khemet (of the Kingdom of Punt) as he arrives with his force of condotierri hired out of Lashikopolis.  Lord Khemet forces are made up of 2,300 engineers, 1,400 standard cavalry, and some 200 lightly mounted scouts.  In the end, the combined forces of Rhode’s and Punt will winter in Carinthia, eyeing the Alps to their north, that signify the Bavarian Border.

In the Year of our Lord (pick one) 65;

March:

The combined forces of Rhode’s and Punt begin to move north, advancing over the Alps and into Bavaria; it would take them a full three months to cross the Alps before they can truly bring their forces to bear.

June:

Aethelwulf, Heir to the throne of Lorraine has waited in Alsace for the Bavarian forces to respond in vain.  It looks to be they will not come this year.  So as to not waste the remainder of this campaign season, he uproots his forces from their prepared defense and puts them to the march heading north for the region of Friesland.  With Lord Theric the Bold still at his side, and charm still about his neck, Aethelwulf intends to liberate Friesland.  Even as the Lorraine forces are about to cross the border, the UTFK have not been idle.  Jodis, High Priestess of the D.O.G has been coordinating and preparing a defense of the region since April of 64.  Leveraging the recently built UTFK fortifications as the linchpin of her defense, she is confident that they can hold when the reports start filtering in of troop movements to south.  As Jodis, Blade of Latvia, and King Nikoli, his wound still festering, make their last minute preparations their scouts report the first clear idea on how large the enemy forces are.  Where they had expected a sizable force, they are stunned to learn that they face a force that outnumbers their own over two to one, and that it’s all cavalry.  The UTFK rush to their positions, ready to face the challenge as Athelwulf begins the deployment of his forces.  In the field the UTFK have 9,000 infantry with a light cavalry force deployed amongst a network of field fortifications (1,200 cavalry, 850, heavy veteran infantry, 1,800 standard infantry, 600 light infantry, and 4,000 sappers, 3 field forts).  The Lorraine have deployed a force of some 21,800 mixed cavalry (2,000 heavy Dragoons, 15,000 heavy cavalry, and 4,800 standard cavalry).  Though the fortifications aid the UTFK, the open fields of Friesland provide the terrain that cavalry where made for.  The shear size of the Lorraine forces, and the mobility that they represented, created a recipe for death.  The UTFK forces, though holding their own in the first moments of battle, are out flanked quickly, and the butchering begins.  By the end Jodis, Priestes of the D.O.G, would flee for her life as King Nikoli suffers another wound, which he would not recover from.  Lord Blade, of Latvia, would rally his men to him and be the last to fall as the Lorraine forces slaughter their enemy till the fields run with UTFK blood.

Prince Philipeedees, now in charge of 11,400 men, finally break out into the plains of Bavaria with the intention of looting the region.  Expecting to find the region undefended, they are woefully surprised to find the cultivate lands of Bavaria brimming over with fortifications in size and number un-before seen by the Prince.  With almost half the season behind them already, they lay to and begin actively sieging the 20 fortifications about Bavaria, attempting to reach Munich.  King Christian and Prince Eric, the Heir, of Bavaria lead their men well.  King Christian is ever present, as he walks the wall with his men.  Though, even now, he is force to stop now and then due to his wound pestering him.  “When would it ever heal”, those near him could often over hear him say.  As the enemy forces come driving out of the pass to their south and begin their assault on the Bavarian fortifications, Prince Eric dispatches orders to Lord Bismark to fall back on the capital at once.

July:

The Rhode and Punt forces are now into their second month of actively laying siege to the Bavarian Fortifications.  The combined forces have suffered minor loses.  On the other hand, over forty percent of the Bavarian fortifications have been eliminated as July comes to a close.

August:

With the siege now moving into August, Prince Philipedees is beginning to worry about what time remains in the 65 campaigning season.  They’ve worn the Bavarian down, but it will still take at least the remaining month to eliminate the still resisting fortifications so that they can advance on the unprotected city of Munich, with her un-walled districts almost within reach.  Scouts reporting in, derail the Princes train of thought, when they advise that a host of 6,000 Bavarian Heavy Cavalry are within a day’s march of his forces.  The Prince realizes that they will be caught between the fortifications and the Bavarian cavalry if they don’t pull back this very day.  With Basil and Lord Khemet affirming his orders, the combined Rhodean and Punt forces begin pulling back southwards, making for the same pass they used to enter this resolute land.  The orderly withdraw falls into disarray as the Bavarian forces, leveraging the still existing fortifications, begin to drive on the foreign aggressors.  Prince Philipedees, with Lord Khemet, leverage what cavalry they have but they are no match for Heavy’s as they charge against their own.  In the end, the orderly withdraw turns into a desperate flight towards the protection that the Alpine mountains represent.  By the end of the August, the combined force of Rhodes and Punt are completely eliminated before they can reach the Alpine mountains.  Basil, Priest of Delphi, and Lord Khemet are both captured.  Prince Philipedees, though wounded, is the soul individual to make it across the Alps and into Carthinia.

King Haakan, and his forces, board their flotilla at anchor in the Graanderen harbor and set sail for Ivarvold.

Mercenaries available for this turn:

Condotierri: 3hi, 2i, 8xi, 2c, 2w, 2t, 1s

QRs: i5, w4, s4, c5

Andrew of Green Tribe (M951, age 29)

Kevin of Green Tribe (M99A, age 27)

Mercenaries hired:

Lorraine:   3hi, 2i, 8xi, 2c, 1s

               Andres of the Green Tribe

Bavaria:    Kevin of the Green Tribe

UTFK:      2w, 2t

THE KINGDOM OF THE SVEAR (Oracle of Delphi)

King Haakan of Giantstock

Diplomacy: none

Prince Ymir, heir to the throne, would spend 64 and 65 standing in his King’s stead ruling from Ivarvold.  As news of a successful campaign began to make its way to the capital, the final installment of gold and men where dispatched to the region Norway for the completion of the port city of Aesirheim.

It is with much fanfare, as King Haakan returns to Ivarvold to relish in the acclaim and honor attained upon the battlefield.  Not to mention the two new guest’s he has to “talk” with.

For all other events, please see “Europe A Flame”.

THE KINGDOM OF FRANCE

Position eliminated

THE WARRIOR CLANS OF CUMAN  (Druids of the Olde Gods)

King Ahman, Clan Chief of the Cuman

Diplomacy: Ile De France (f), Paris (f), Orleans (f), Normandy (f), Maine (f), Anjou

The Yurt of King Ahman, Chief of the Cuman Horde, Lord of all he pervades, strained against the wind as snow continued to fall in Late January of 64.  About his hearth was gathered his Ally’s Tverdislav,chief of the Tver Clan and Gan-Chinua of Suzdal, Ajold his Heir, and his chief Lieutenant Pankharii.  It is growing late in the evening as they discuss strategy, and the coming year, a messenger enters with latest communiqués from France and the Druids in Himmelskstad, as well as letters of appeal from a number of other countries.    Ahman sits thoughtfully for a moment, gazing into the depths of the fire.  As he stares into the depths he sees not the fire, but rather the wealth of the lands he and his people have looked upon through their travels over the last few years.  He also remembers all that his people do not have in comparison to the peasantry about them even now.  The Warrior Clans have now spent years traveling in these bountiful lands of Southern Europe and, King Ahman thinks to himself, it is time to decide… shall we stay or shall we go.

He looks again upon the messages in his hand, and upon his lap, as he lifts his head and begins to speak to those arrayed around him, “as you know a true and mighty warrior does not sneak in the darkness… rather they proudly find the greatest opponent that is worthy of their might!  Greatness is measured not in gold and lands, but in the strength of those you have vanquished!”  King Ahman, lifts one of the many messages in his lap, and gestures at it as he relates, “those in far off lands have ask that we perform cowardly acts.  They ask us to camouflage our honor and strike at a downed opponent.  An opponent they are unable to remove!  I begin to regret our association with these “men”!  Know you now that this “camouflage” is the color of fear, fore I have no need to hide form my foes!”  At this, the King rises, throwing the parchment held within his hand into the fire.  “I have no fear of death!  My colors I wear openly, they proclaim louder than any words, I am proud to live… and I am proud to die!”  At this great exclamation, his men leap to their feet, as they ask “what are we to do our great King!?”  He responds, “ I have become sick of the whining of those about us and even more of these “druids”.  It is time we reawaken their fear and remind them of our steel and fortitude, crafted upon the plains.  It is time that we prepare ourselves for the Kihivas (The Great Challenge)!  Fore we shall go to Paris, my brothers, and we shall make it ours!”

With this declaration, the Hoard set about reading itself for the coming year.  As his men began to make ready all that would be needed in the months to come, King Ahman retired once again to his hearth.  As the King’s personal guard, looked on, it was with no surprise as they watched their great King fall into sleep by the fire.  Later, It would be reported that two horses could be heard just outside the yurt, neighing and stamping their feet, seemingly eager to be on their way.  When it was investigated, not a horse would be seen.  It would not be till morning that it was found that King had died in his sleep.  Ajold became the leader of the Clans with little contention and chose to continue on the path that Ahman had set before them.

Once Paris falls Ajold settles the ribes into Paris and Il De France.  With a garrison left, Ajold drives on Anjou, while Tverdislav drives on Normandy and Gan-Chinua drives on Maine.  All fall to the Cuman Horde and are settled by the tribe.  Once Anjou is taken, Ajold will return to Paris to determine what, if any of the former French government or University, can be used.

With winter approaching, at the close of 65, Ajold, King of the Cuman, is in Paris, with his forces arrayed to see how the rest of Europe will respond.

For further information, please see Europe A Flame.

THE KINGDOM OF LORRAINE  (Oracle of Delphi)

King Harold

Diplomacy: Alsace (f), Snits (f), Holland (f), Graanderen (f), Friesland (f)

As Aethelwulf, the Heir of Lorraine, is riding to meet with his forces on the border.  He is excited to take the fight to the enemy.  As he rides upon the forested trail, his honor guard before and after him, an arrow strikes at him from the shadows on his right.  It is his lucky day as the wicked head, barbed and ready to take his life, is fired a moment to early and flies through the sleeve of his tunic, burying itself in the trees beyond.  Though the assassin would not be caught, the head of the arrow, after he digging it out of the trunk would find it self as a good luck charm about Alethelwulf’s throat.

Pince Briann, with Lord William, secures the region of Lorraine against all comers.  Prince Briann is able to, with dispensation from the Palace, hire some 2,800 mercenaries’s to aid in the, already, formidable defense.  The Mercenary Captain Andrew, of the Green Tribe, is hired to aid with integrating his mercenary forces into Lorraine’s regional fortifications.

As winter sets in, at the close of 65, Lorraine would have reclaimed Alsace, Snits, Holland, Graanderen, and the region of Friesland.

THE KINGDOM OF BAVARIA   (Roman Catholic)

King Christian

Diplomacy: none

Prince Eric, heir to the throne of Bavaria, remains in Munich and keeping tabs on the scribes about the castle.  Oh, and he had a bit of fun in 65.

For further information, see Europe A Flame.

KINGDOM OF ALBA  (Druids of the Olde Gods)

King Hamish

Diplomacy: none

Prince Kyle, Heir to the throne of Alba, would find 64 and 65 to be hard years.  Though the city of Scone would continue to grow, the loss of 26 ships of war would be hard to replace.  Let alone the men that would fall on the field of battle far from home.

Lieutenant Blaine, after having left Holland (thank the Gods!) would make his way around the Highlands and head into the Irish Sea, heading for the Isle of Man.  As King Hamish had observed, what better time to meet with the nobles of the Island.  With Durham, undoubtedly falling to the Kingdom of Avalon, they would need a strong neighbor.  Secondly, it was widely known that the Green Tribe looked upon the Island with avariciousness.  It would be with consternation that Lieutenant Blaine would find the Island already in the Green Tribes hands, garrisoned and waiting for “visitors” as it where.  The Lieutenant would beat a hasty return trip to Strathclyde, hoping to hear good news around the efforts on the mainland.

For further information, please read “Europe A Flame”.

THE UNITED KINGDOM OF AVALON  (Druids of the Olde Gods)

King Oak, Ruler of the United Kingdom of Avalon, Protector of Portugal

Diplomacy: Galacia (fa)

The monks supplied by the Druids where coming in handy in 64 and 65.  Not only where they helping the scribes of the Kingdom deal with the every increasing paperwork, they also where managing the King’s message traffic with the aid of Prince Roland.  Talk about a bath by fire for the young prince, here was a way for the young man to get a feel for the everyday tasks of managing a Kingdom… no and Empire at war!

The King had much yet to do before he could rest.  Dispatches where made and men began to move as the snow was still falling in late January of 64.  Before the King and Lord Buford moved out of Lindisfarne, in Northbumria, Lord Dumbledor was handed the enviable task of integrating the Government of Durham into the inner workings of Avalon.  What ever could be salvaged was to be dismantled and shipped off to London.  That which wasn’t deemed worthwhile, was put to the torch.  The city was to be left intact, but all semblance of Durham was to be destroyed.  Form this point in time on Durham would cease to exist.

Once the prodigious Lord Dumbledor (“my god did you get a look at that guy”?!) had initiated his efforts within Lindisfarne, the King and Lord Buford set out for the region of Mercia.  At the same time Lord William set out from the region of Sussex.  With dispatches passing between the two armies to guarantee the timing of their arrival in Mercia, it was no surprise that all went as planned.  The combined armies of Lord Buford, and the King, totaled some 12,000 mixed forces, with a heavy contingent of sappers to deal with whatever fortification they might encounter, entered the region of Merica from the Northeast.  With hope and a bit of luck, Lord Willam entered Mercia from Southeast with over 1,000 veteran infantry and some 450 sappers hopping to catch the enemy’s forces deployed against Avalon forces entering from the North.  In the end, the precaution taken by the King where for nothing, the enemy forces and fortifications never crystallized.  The armies of Avalon overran Mercia with ease and advanced to the city of Nottingham without any opposition.  There, finally, they would find the “opposition” as Lord Ian and his loyal retainers, and Lords, by his side.  With them stood some 1200 men upon foot.  King Oak would send Lord Buford as his second with terms and conditions.  He was met mid field and refused being told that King Oak would have to pry the Kingdom of Durham “form my cold dead fingers”.  In the end, the great King Ian, Lord of Durham, met his fate upon the battlefield falling to King Oaks steel.  Once the former King of Durham fell, the battle in Durham’s men fled. Weapons where laid down and the killing would cease.  As it where, the city of Nottingham would fall without bloodshed and the force’s of Durham where treated with honor, as was the city of Nottingham, as King Oak garrisoned the region and city to stem any revolt.

So as to not loose the momentum gained, King Oak dispatched Lord Buford with 1500 mixed infantry to take Lancashire.  Buford wouldn’t be able to depart until March of 65, having had to winter in Nottingham.  Even though, Lancashire would fall as Mercia did, with little or no resistance.

By the end of 65, with Lothian declaring its independence, the great Kingdom of Durham come to an end and live on only in memory.

THE KINGDOM OF DURHAM

(position eliminated)

THE GREEN TRIBE  (Druids of the Olde Gods)

King Arthur

Diplomacy: Isle Man (p)

King Arthur, in accordance with tradition, bequeathed the title of Prince Regent and Heir up on the young Prince Cuchlain.  In an effort to show his Sire he had done “no wrong” by this great honor, the Prince Regent gather the freshly equipped troops, now completing their training in Connaught, and set sail upon a squadron of transports (which had been built for just this adventure).  Accompanying the Prince and heir was Lord Ailill, a recognized expert in the artistry of war.  It was deemed by the crown that the Lords services would best be utilized supporting the young Heir’s foray onto the battlefield.

The contingent for war totaled some 6 transports, laden with around 130 lightly equipped infantry.  As the Prince and his men rounded Ulster and approached the Isle of Man, their target, it was decided that they would attack at dawn (hopefully to catch the garrison unawares).  Timing was fortunate for the men, fore much of the garrison on Man had recently been withdrawn due to the situation with Avalon.  The Prince, true to his upbringing and character, lead his men ashore with glee in his heart and a war cry upon his lips.  Not only the garrison, but Capitan as well, where caught still in their beds and butchered to a man.  The peasantry did not resist as they where all informed that they were now members of Green Tribe.

As the events where happening upon the Isle; work continued upon the road from Connaught to Munster.  It was with no surprise that additional scribes where hired about the palace, fore had not the King been overheard as of late saying something about “not more <censored> PAPERWORK!”

Mercenaries available for next turn:

1hec, 1hei, 1hc, 2hi, 2i, 2xi, 3c, 2xc, 3s, 1xew,

1hw, 2w, 2xw, 2t

QRs: i5, w4, s4, c5

Krom of Avalon (M652, age 55)

Mercenaries hired for this turn:  none

THE KINGDOM OF GRANADA  (Druids of the Olde Gods)

King Corum

Diplomacy: Aragon (p), Baelerics (t)

The King, in closes circles, called Lord Tabor (the fifth mind you) his “bull Dog” due to his fierce loyalty to the crown and his incessant drive against the enemy in battle.   It was this drive that the King wished to leverage as he dispatched the Lord with 6500 mixed cavalry, 1800 mixed infantry, and an additional 2300 royal engineers.  Also assigned to the Lord was a contingent of the Royal Color Guard, splendidly decked out in their heavy armor, each an experienced veteran in their own right.  They would act as a personal guard for the Lord.  Ten thousand men left the capital early in 64, winding their way north.  They would reach the region of Aragon mid of 64 and, after a month of extensive campaigning, the “Bulldog” would have the region firmly in the Kingdom’s control.  He would depart, leaving a sizable garrison, and return to the capital to a hero’s welcome.

Whilst the armies of the Kingdom where “on maneuvers” to the north, King Corum, and Lord Allum, had made their way to Valencia in an attempt to convince the local nobility the wisdom and beauty of the D.O.G. faith.  All the nobility had was the their word, and some of the latest scrolls to have made there way to the Kingdom, otherwise… nothing.  “Where are the Churches… where are the Abby’s, my lord?” was the question repeated again and again.  Needles to say, the King did not fare well in Valencia.  When he departed near the end of 65, he surprised to find himself pleased to be leaving.

Lord Aridon, dispatched to the Island of Baelerics, to conduct negotiations with the Nobility of the region seemed to have better luck.  Negotiations were progressing well, as his dispatches to the Capital related.  In late 64 the dispatches stopped.  No further messages where received by the capital as the winter set in at the close of 65.

THE KINGDOM OF LOMBARDY  (Roman Catholic)

King Odotheus

Diplomacy: Tuscany (f)

The Kingdom was at peace.  As such, the more land was put under the plow in Romagna and Savoy.  The city of Genuva received a series of new wells and the such.  King Odotheus ruled from Mediolan as he dispatched Lord Rictovarus and Lord Braga off to the region of Tuscany to see what might be done to bring them fully into the Kingdom.  By the end of 65, they where able to report great success.

It was with no small concern as in mid 64, Lord Borgia, was to report of the Rhodean and Punt forces to the east.  After everything that had occurred with the Hoard, the Lombarians where happy the spear wasn’t pointed at them for once.

Under a cloudless starry night, in mid-January of 64

He sat by his fire, his men already making the preparations for what was to come.  It has been a long time since he has felt such purpose and direction.  Yet, still he remembered the unending plain of his youth.  The feel of a good horse under you as the great chariot that was the sun traversed its course in the sky above, and then to be followed by the Earth Mother drawing the blanket of night over our heads.  It was wrong to have adopted this false faith.  As these thoughts moved through his mind, the curtain parted and an old woman, dressed in rag’s with twigs and leaves in her hair, entered and seated herself across form the man at his fire.  He looked upon her, with not only his eyes but also his soul, and knew her for what and who she was.  As he bowed his head, he said with great reverence, “you have blessed my hearth Earth Mother”.

“It has been long since I have heard your words, my son.  Though, even near the end, it is pleasing to see one’s son return”.

“Is my time so near?”, he asked with touch of regret in his voice.

“Yes, my son.  Have you not accomplished much and yet set a course for your people that shall lead them to their greatest achievement.”

“One only hopes, you who are the Alpha and the Omega”.

As she nod’s her head “I still see in you one regret, my son.  Speak it and may hap it will come to be?”

“I would ride once more, and see the never ending plain, mother of all that was, that is, and is to be”.

“For all that you have accomplished and all that you have set before my people, I shall give this to you.”

As the old woman rises, she is no longer old, but now a woman in her prime!  Gone are the rags, the twigs and the leaves, fore she is arrayed for battle, with shield upon her back, steel at her waist, and spear in hand.

“Stand my son, and ride by my side once again, for know you that you have never been lost from me but only it is you that has wondered away for but a moment and are now returned.”

Even as the man rises, he can hear the horses just outside the yurt, stamping and neighing as if eager to be on their way.

“We shall ride upon the plains again, my son, and I will show you the city that your brothers in the east have built to celebrate me.”

With that, the curtains of the yurt pulled aside, though no earthly hand touched them, and the Man exited this place for the next.

Mercenaries available for next turn:

Condotierri:12c,1xc,13i,2xi,11s,11w,11t

QRs:i5, w6, s4, c4

Mercenaries hired: 11w,11t,11s,7c,1xi  (Punt)

THE SULTANATE OF MORROCO (Roman Catholic)

Sultan Ghalib

Diplomacy: Baelerics (fa), Kabilya (fa), Annaba (a)

Lord Zaahir was a bit surprised to see the delegate from Granada speaking with the nobles of Baelerics fore wasn’t their a diplomatic agreement between our two Kingdoms regarding the Island and it’s surrounding waters?  This could be of issue, seeing that his orders where to shepherd the island into the Sultanate.  All would work itself out when the Granada Diplomat would go and loose himself during one of his “excursion” to see the “wildlife”… how strange.

Lord Abdullah, on the other hand, had the dubious task of convincing the rabble of Kabilya and Annaba that it would be in their best interest to side with the Sultanate.  His conversations would go extremely well and would find strong allies for his master.

Ghalib, Sulta of Morroco and all North Africa, was busy with the everyday task’s off keeping the Sultanate together and whole.  To aid him in his task, Prince Hamza, Heir to the throne, was up to his shoulders in paperwork, aiding the Sultanates scribes   It was with surprise when the Sultane was to receive his Heir with a parcel found upon a window sill in his quarters waking one morning.  “My Lord, it is addressed to you and the seal is still whole”  Hamza was to relay.  With interest, Ghalib took the small parcel from his Heir’s hands and began to inspect the seal itself.  “By God!  Hamza do you not recognize this seal!?”  At once the Sultan dismissed all those in the room, except for Hamza.  The last scribe to leave the room could see the king breaking the mysterious “seal” of wax to open the parcel and reach the document within.

THE ISLAND KINGDOM OF SICILY  (Roman Catholic)

King Axeres II

Diplomacy: Sardinia (a)

King Axeres II rode out of the palace with his retainers and Palace Guard, some two hundred of them (and not looking to shabby I might add), to inspect the freshly cultivated farms about the Island.  “This is a good day”, the King thought to himself, “for today the last part of the Island comes under the blow”.  It was a gratuitous moment when the Prince Regent and Heir had suggested this ceremony that he now rode towards. It would do the peasantry good to see their King and was not the calibration earned?  All of Sicily under the plow meant more than enough food for all.  There was a day when this might had not been the case, when all feared the Hoard moving down through Italy might learn to “swim”. As he crested the ridge, a few hours ride from Syracuse, the King was able to see the village (their destination) below in the shallow valley.  It was a surprise to the Axeres when he observed a rider coming hard from the vanguard of his entourage.  It was Gisepi; Capitan of the honor guard and a man Axeres had trusted with his life more than once.  “My Lord and Sire, this was found upon a flat toped rock to the side of the path ahead with a sign chalked on the stone above” Gisepi said, out of breadth, “My lord, the seal… look upon the seal. It is intact, whole, and do you not recognize it my lord!”  Axeres took the parchment from his Capitan and did recognize the seal. “By God above…”, Gisepi overheard his Lord mumble under his breadth.  “Hold the contingent here my Capitan, I need a moment to read and think.”  Space was made for the King as Axeres moved off, breaking the seal, to read the parcel in solitude.  When some time had passed, during which Axeres looked off into the distance sun rising over the Mediterranean (after having read the contents of the parcel), he turned back to the Capitan.  “This changes everything Gisepi, I know not how this has reached our hands, but, by GOD, we shall act accordingly!”  “Let us move on and dispense with these events; it is best we return to the Palace post haste” Axeres bellow forth to the entourage as they began to descend to the village.

As the King was about the countryside, so was the Heir.  The Prince Regent remained in the field all of 64 and 65 inspecting the defense of Sicily.  Lord Palermo and Lord Apulian, under direction from the King, made their way to Sardinia, determined to bring them into the Kingdom.  It was with surprise that when they reported back at the end of ’64, they came with a full commitment and a new ally to the Kingdom’s north.  This news was received with joy, for the Kingdom’s new ally did not come empty handed.

Mercenaries available for next turn:

3hi, 9i, 7xi, 2w, 1hw, 1xw, 2t

QRs: i3, w4, s4, c3

Wemusa of Takrur (M5A9, age 41)

Shekelek of Punt (M697, age 43)

Mercenaries hired for this turn:

 Wemusa of Takrur (Timbuktu)

THE KINGDOM OF PUNT  (Oracle of Delphi)

King Nashish, the Lion

Diplomacy: Sri Lanka (t), Sabae (f)

King Nashish, the Lion of Africa, leads his 4,500 heavy infantry into the city of Sabae, escorting the colonist.  The city would join the kingdom fully, even if he had to force it!  Lord Baki was extremely successful in Sri Lanka as a city was completed by the end of 65.  The port city of Nashisha would be the Kingdom’s jumping off point for trade into the rest of India and Asia.  All in all, the King was very please with 64 and 65, that is, until the news of Khemet’s capture and imprisonment at the hands of Bavaria!

THE KINGDOM OF IFE  (African Pagan)

Torga, regent for King Bu 'wagu II, Lord of the Niger

Diplomacy: Ganoa (nt)

 Lord Torga, Regent for the 12-year-old King, kept Bu’wagu the second by his side in ’64 and ’65.  The Kingdom was at war and because of such, the where some 3000 assorted infantry based about the countryside surrounding the capital.  They searched high and low for insurgents, keeping watch for those dishonorable Timbuktuians to the North (“Did you know they eat their dead”, one sergeant was overheard to say  “how could anyone that eats their own dead be worthy of battle!”).  In then end, the watch and waiting was for not fore they had not come at the close of ’65.

As the Kingdom, it seemed, ready itself for battle, Lord Grotara, on orders from the Palace, sailed over to the region of Gagnoa.  Conversations where held to determine their loyalties in the coming conflict.  When all was said and done, the Head Chief was beginning to understand which side of the bread was buttered and chose to establish limited ties with the Kingdom of Ife.

While the populace fretted over war, the cities of North Gate and Freeport both expanded.  With such growth, more land was put under the plow in the region of Benin.  Additionally, field fortifications where extended in both Oyo and Yoruba.

The garrison in Nupe had received order to remain on alert and it was with no surprise the insurgents where caught attempting to “spread propaganda” such that the garrison might revolt.  As the two men where being moved, they were able to break away and elude their captors in the village just outside the garrison itself.  This was not well received by the Capital as they had escaped before the men could be questioned in more detail.

THE MADREGAIST CHURCH  (Madregaist)

Primate Tuhara

Diplomacy:   Ghana (ca), Takrur (ab), Gambia (ch)

The Madregai faith achieved a great event as the first Cathedral of many, hopefully, was completed at the end of ’65 in the region of Ghana.  Tuhara, Leader of the Faithful, was filled with exuberance as the crowds jostled their way in to hear his sermon and celebrate their common faith.

While Tuhara was “busy” in Ghana, Haratu was a flutter with activity.  The beloved Bishop was able to gain a tithe of the Tukrur government, no mean feat in and of itself.  Then the man went off and was able to secure permits, land (as a gift from a merchant no less) and begin construction on an Abby.  Which would be completed by the end of ’65.  Sloth being NOT one of the renowned Bishops trait’s, with what little free time the man had, he was able to do the same in Gambia.  Though, with some well-earned joy, the Bishop was able to also raise a Church in the region by the end of ’65.  Talk about a busy beaver!

THE KINGDOM OF TIMBUKTU  (Madregaist)

King Lasaka Mansa, the Second

Diplomacy: Segu (fa), Ghana, (fa)

King Lasaka Mansa, the second, with the national army in attendance, went to have a conversation with the tribal leaders of Segu.  “Is not the Kingdom of Timbuktu strong?”… “Would not have a friendly neighbor, than an enemy to take you’re cattle and wives?”  It was with this clear logic and the fact that the King had a little over 6000 assorted infantry and near 1000 screening cavalry that may have influenced the region of Segu to “bear their neck” and become Feudal Allies to the Kingdom of Timbuktu.  Now where the King used the stick (and wielded it fairly well I might add), Lieutenant Dan ventured forth to the region of Ghana with only his honor and spoken word.  The Ghana Chieftains found the Lieutenant an honorable man, and once word had reach them of the Kingdom’s strength in their dealings with the people of Segu,  Ghana was overjoyed to “bear their neck” as well.

Will all the coming and goings it was with surprise that Princes Minsa Mansa came down with the fever.  Though the standard sacrifices where made, she would die in the night, mid summer of ’64.  As that her husband was on some mysterious errand for the king, he was unable to take part in the funeral ceremonies.  Though the passing of estate and all pertinent titles occurred without hindrance in his absence.  He would now have to be addressed as Prince or Lord upon his return.

With the extension of the Kingdom to the west, Timbuktu found itself with a common border with Takrur.  This was planned for as Lieutenant Dan was met in Ghana by Lord Barra of Takrur.  He arrived with the proper papers of state and a Non-Aggression Treaty was signed between Timbuktu and Takrur.  With this agreement, trade began to flow immediately between the two nations.

THE SEAHOLD OF TAKRUR  (Madregaist)

King Sekani

Diplomacy: Galam (a)

King Sekani was, very much, looking foreword to the spring of ’64 fore he had scrimped and saved for just this event. As spring was beginning to turn, the King lavished gold upon the region of Takrur and the populace worked hard such that by the end of ’65 the region was fully ready for the plow.  The heir, Prince Adama and Lord Barra where dispatched to the region of Galam to convince them to join the Seahold, if at all possible.  Also Lord Barra carried the papers of state necessary to establish a Non-Aggression Treaty with the Kingdom of Timbuktu.  The negotiations went well and the region of Galam chose to ally themselves with the Seahold.  This was seen as advantageous by merchants within the region (who, some say, had some influence upon the negotiations) once trade began to flow between the two nations.

While the Prince Regent and Lord Barra where off conducting business of state, the King remained at the palace working through the never-ending paper work.  It was with joy that the Queen announced that she was beget with child.  With this great news, the general populace prayed for a healthy child to be born, fore the Queen and King where greatly loved.  It would come to pass that a son would be born in the winter of ’65 and “there was much rejoicing”.