LORDS OF THE EARTH

Campaign Twenty-Four

Age of the Crusades

Turn 30

Anno Domini 1146 – 1150

Turn 30 Orders Due By April 5th, 2002

Announcements

I’m working on some revisions of the Campaign notes so I will post them on the website as I update them.

To prevent the GM from going insane, I must ask that you please, please, please use the original name of you country on your sheet. It helps me locate stuff quicker. I will get rid of this later on when I know everyone’s names better.

Cult of Shiva: The Cult of Shiva is hostile to Hinduism, but otherwise identical thereto.

The News

Manchu'kuo

Mercenaries: 15i, 10c

The Mongol Khanate (Asiatic-Pagan, No Capital)

Bartan, Khan of the Mongols, Future Lord of All Asia

Diplomacy None

Ahh sitting in the lap of Mongol luxury!

Khanate of the Kutai (Asiatic-Pagan, No Capital)

Gujen Shih, Khan of the Kutai and Khitan

Diplomacy None

Break dancing.

The Ju-Chen Khanate (Asiatic-Pagan, No Capital)

Ju'ki'ta, Khan of the Ju-Chen, Favored of the Thunderbolt

Diplomacy None

.Ju-Chen! Bless you!

The Goryeo Kingdom (Buddhist, Kaiching)

Yun Yen Zun, King of the Chaosen

Diplomacy Parhae (EA)

Intense negotiations consumed most of the nations business. King Yun Yen Zun did though find the time to sign and order appropriating the necessary funds for the expansion of Silla in Pusan and for some agricultural projects in Pusan; they always did make the best Kimshee there.

Uighur Jungaria (Asiatic-Pagan, Karakocho)

Khagan Thakir, Lord of the Karluks

Diplomacy None

Did all the things a Jungaria can.

Nihon

Mercenaries: 10i, 10w, 10t

Clan Kiyowara (Shinto, Heian)

Kiyowara Motosuke, Lord of the North, the “victorious”

Diplomacy None

We look for things!

Fujiwara Japan (Shinto, Heian)

Naetoru Torashima, Shogun of the Isles, Protector of the Emperor

Diplomacy Saga (P) Kagoshima (P) Nigata (F) Edo (F)

‘’It is with great honor that I announce the marriage of my daughter Kakaribi to Koga of the Sakata Daimyo. With this wedding I may lose a daughter but I shall gain a son and Prince.” So went the introduction of Sakata to the House of Torashima, he would not celebrate long. In the spring of 1147 an armada appeared off the coast of Kyushu and began the long process of rooting out the Buddhist separatists and imposing Shinto as the new religion. Saga and its port of Kumamoto fell quickly as the plains offer excellent maneuver space. The southern tip was far different with its numerous inlets and high mountainous areas, the rebel forces kept Naitarou busy and constantly alert for attack from unknown quarter. Though with the size of his forces, the end was inevitable as one by one the rebel groups where taken and executed and laid by the road side to rote as a reminder to those who would incur the wrath of the Shogun of the Isles. Only time will now show if the Buddishist ‘threat’ has finally been quashed.

Nihon-no-Tenno (Shinto, Heian)

Tenno Sotoku, Emperor of Nippon, Blessed of Amaterasu

Diplomacy Kwanto (mn), Aichi (ab)

A tithe was placed on the nation of Japan to help in the building of new temples. Emperor Sotoku was curious to see how one builds a temple and so in a mood of frivolity and sheer terror to his advisors decided to get his hands dirty. He only stopped to listen that a great many other temple’s and shrines had been consecrated throughout the realm. He rested and felt reborn.

The Land Under Heaven

Mercenaries: 14c, 6lc, 5w

The Greater Vehicle of Tibet (Buddhism, Lhasa)

Thirumbaba, Dalai Lama of Lhasa, Light of the World

Diplomacy Nan Chao (CH) Tai Li (CH) TzukAn (CA) Omchu (MN)

The expansion of the holy church proceeded with a fervor, as souls always need saving and Buddha never sleeps.

Western Sung (Buddhism, Chang’an)

Song Zhi Zhe, “The Foul”, Lord of the Middle Lands

Diplomacy: Ordos (F) Yun (A)

To distract the common folk from his ‘recent’ acquisition of the throne. Emperor Zhi Zhe set the nation to work in greatly increasing the public infrastructure and the road network throughout Shensi. His efforts to bring a happier face to his government legitimacy paid off in the notable diplomatic achievements his generals were able to pull off. The only regrettable moment was in late 1144 when General Sheshen returned from a fact finding mission babbling all about some weird men in black he had seen worshipping a white ball and chanting the word ‘’goal’’ over and over again. The site had so disturbed the general that he needed an extended vacation to calm his frayed nerves.

Phoenix Sung (Buddhism, Chang’Ling)

Bloody T’an Hua, Prince of Kang, Celestial Emperor of the Middle Kingdom

Diplomacy Hopei (EA) Kaifeng (F) Hubei (NT)

After the horrible events of the last few years, the Empress Tán Hua took it as a sign that things had to be different in the approach to how the government dealt with the people. “All effort is to be made to restore the power of this realm, none shall force us from this path!” Great things were set in motion. The expansion of Pienching, Ch’ang’sha, Chang’ling, Chengde, and Shang-ching all should the power of the Celestial Empress. Massive ditch digging and agricultural projects also made possible the feeding of many new peoples who had decided to see what city life was all about. The climate of fear present from the break up of the Empire did little to dampen the work of Sung ambassadors as regions decided again to join the Empire, only Szechwan giving a decided thumbs down to the proposals.

The Wudan Masters (Buddhism, Pienching)

Shun Ri, master of Wudan Mountain

Diplomacy: None

A calm silence was all the emanated from Pienching.

South East Asia

Mercenaries: 6i, 3lc, 4w

The Dai Kingdom of Annam (Buddhist, Tonkin)

T'an Bao, Da-Wang ti Annam

Diplomacy: Kwantung (F)

The funeral procession of the Queen Mother and Prince Hsieh stretched far into the horizon as an honor guard made up of the armies finest dressed in white marched to the droning beat of the Imperial Band, all the people wept but felt a renewed sense of patriotism as the Prince Royal, T’an Minh II passed by on the royal carriage with his father. He was to come of age in the next year and the citizenry felt confident that he would be as a great a leader as his father. News later in the year was not as good as it became known that General Hsieh had disappeared for some weeks in the highlands before reappearing before the capitol unannounced. He begged apology of the King, for after having followed his orders to the letter in concern to army dispositions, he had been made aware of a plot against his majesty and had acted upon it. The King, not know what to do simply had the General censored for not reporting but was awarded a medal for courage when it was later discovered that the black suited men he had wiped out had tried to kidnap the Princess Tán Bai.

The Kambujadesa Empire (Hindu, Angor)

Javyaravarman, king of the Khmer

Diplomacy Hmong (P), Surin (EA)

All was well in Khemer. The sun shined, the rice grew. The only thing of note was a report to the King about the abysmal state of religious participation in Khemer. Also and intense look into the Khemer secret service found that no cleaner, upstanding public officials ever served a government. “Now thought the King where are all my wife’s at?” Only the poor Hmong thought nothing but hatred towards the King for while he thought of having fun, his army had marched in and leveled the region. Much will be said in the future about that.

The Kingdom of Thaton (Buddhist, Moulmein)

Souphan, Lord of the Mon

Diplomacy

Just watched the rainfall.

The Indonesian Islands

Mercenaries: 13w, 10t, 6i

The God-Empire of Siri Vijaya (Buddhist, Srivijaya)

Gozomonye the Magnificent, Blessed of the Bohdisattva, The Builder

Diplomacy Sunda (T) Bali (P) Kediri (P)

The dead lay in mounds at the feet of Prince Waahibah. His campaign to forcebly acquires Kediri, and Bali had been a success with moderate troop losses. It was only the fool city Singhasari that was now annoying him, why they refused to join in the face of such power befuddled him? It was unfortunate that his troops were to worn out and the monsoon season was approaching, or he would show them who’s the boss. So back to celebrate in Palembang, and drown his displeasure in drink.

The Free State of Palawau (Hindu, Balabac)

Mukmin, Master of the Savu Pirates

Diplomacy None

Minded their own business.

The Deleur Acephalus (Oceanic Pagan, Nan Matol)

King Lezerux, Lord of the Pahn Kadira

Diplomacy

So I says, Mabel…

INDIA ~ Land of the Fervent

Mercenaries: 18i, 5c, 12w

The Pale of Bengal (Hindu, Bihar)

Humaputri Quicktongue, King of the Pala, Prince of Tamralipti

Diplomacy Orissa (EA) Palas (T)

“The time has come to bring a further enlightenment to the masses, and I Emperor Humapatri intend to bring all into the rays of the son!” To do such was no small feet. An intense campaign was launched throughout Bengal to help the people to see the glory of Hinduism. It’s results were a marked improvement in attendance at local temples. Combined with work programs meant to raise the standard of living. The Emperor felt this program was truly a success. With the arrival of two daughters and rumors spreading about Lord Mihar, Humapatri turned his attention to matters closer to his person.

Pratihara Kingdom of Kaunaj (Hindu, Kaunaj)

Otarappan, Emperor of the North, Master of All, Hammer of Arjuna and Faithful of Krishna

Diplomacy Ajmer (T) Jats (T)

The Emperor was happy that things seemed to be going his way. Three daughters in just over 2 years made him feel glad the emptiness in his heart was being filled so he decided to spread the good cheer. Expansion of the cities of Jaunpur, Benares, Patna and Mandvi and the increase of the army also gave many a daily meal ticket. His expansion of the nation also through diplomacy also paid of and nobody could find anything wrong in the land of Kuanaj.

Kalachuri Kingdom of Tripuri (Hindu, Tripuri)

Jayala, King of Kings, Lord of Ramagiri

Diplomacy None

Went about their own business.

Western Dhara Kingdom (Hindu, Vijayanagar)

Munja II, “The Wise,” Lord of Dhara

Diplomacy None

Dhara is the place to be.

Sad Drivida Kingdom of Ceylon (Hindu, Polonarva)

Bhaljahu, Lord of the Tamil and the Nadu

Diplomacy Belur (T)

King Bhaljahu was content to marry rather pleasing women he had met at a local farming presentation. The marriage proved fruitful and soon 4 children were keeping him awake at night. He thus left most of the government affairs in the capable hands of Lt. Kanishka. Word also arrived at the palace of strange goings on in the Indian Ocean?

The Order of the Dagger (Hindu, Kaunaj)

Mahavaisa Skhenkar, Sanjal of Shiva

Diplomacy None

Minded their own business.

Central Asia And Persia

Mercenaries: 9i, 14c, 3s,2li

The Ghaznavid Sultanate (Sunni Islam, Kabul)

Mahmud (II) al Dala, Lord of the Punjab, Master of the Highlands

Diplomacy None

Iran (Saffarids of Baluchistan) (Sunni Islam, Safahali)

Salman, Shah of Iran, Governor of Khorasania, Lord of the Hunt

Diplomacy None

 ()

It was decided by the Shah that work must replace the time spent with family members. His waking hours were filled with projects to improve the lives of his subjects. A new royal road was completed. The rebuilding of Rasania went ahead as planned and helped bring the people back from the hills. The forces of the Imperial Army also put forth new devotion to the Shah as orders where cut to move the army to a new location, a better position for protecting the Empire. A decree was sent for from the Palace to all the provinces when things had been completed, “In the name of Allah, the beneficent, the merciful; Salman Shah, as befits the increase in size and glory of his realm, and to honor the memories of his great and legendary ancestors, does hereby decree that these lands shall be known as Iran henceforth, and his title shall be Shah of Iran. Tremble and Obey!”

The Eastern Turki (Asiatic Pagan, No Capital)

Arslan, Khan of the Turki

Diplomacy None

The Karakhanate of Ilig (Sunni Islam, Samarkhand)

Jasmine, Bughra-Khan, Queen of the Ilig

Diplomacy None

Shahdom of Khwarzim (Sunni Islam, Khiva)

Kemal al-Huandar, Khazarim-shah

Diplomacy None

Ar Rawwadid Emirat (Sunni Islam, Tabriz)

Mikai’l Alueddin, yabghu of the Rawadid, the Persistent

Diplomacy None

Middle East

Mercenaries: Leader-at-Large 12w, 2hw, 4 t:

Manosh Kazarani (K646), true Sultan of the Buwayids

The ‘Abasi Kalifate (Sunni Islam, Baghdad)

Omar, Judge of Judges, the True Kalif

Diplomacy Fai Yum (MN) Egypt (MN) Antiochia (CH) Syria (MN)

The go for work was given to continue on the Red Mosque in Baghdad. The postal system also was seen to make markedly improved delivery times with the introduction of a postal road from Baghdad to Al’ Nausi. The other basics included the expansion of various other centers of worship throughout the realms. Omar was feeling quite lucky when upon his return to Antioch he repeated the story of the large Armada sailing through the seas towards Africa. Allah had protected him and he now plans on making the pilgrimage, besides that part of the world probably won’t be considered a vacation spot for sometime to come.

The Buwayid Sultanate (Sunni Islam, Baghdad)

Zarife the Bold, Sultan of Baghdad

Diplomacy None

The people of Persia had for sometime made the representatives of the Sultanate comfortable. The messages they were sending to the capitol at Tabriz went unanswered and they knew it was only time before the Buwayid required and answered. Problem was that soon after they arrived general events of mischief and terror kept bothering the population. Rumors were that the Rawadid no longer cared or god was abandoning them? There answer was long in coming as the Sultanate truly wasn’t in the mood for waiting no matter what strife was occurring. A bright sunny morning found the palaces of the regional governor surrounded and his guard executed. “Well so much for being a Rwaddid?” Persia was quickly occupied and brought under control. King Zarife the Bold though was impatient a rider had been sent to locate the Ilig forces that should have joined with them on the march to occupy Tabaristan? Strange not a word came and the King decided it was wrong to advance alone. The Armies of Sultanate remain now in Persia waiting for the moment to strike north.

The Almoravid Emirate (Was Almohad Kalifa, Sunni Islam, No Capital)

al-Muwahhidun, Emir of the Almoravids, Prince of Aleppo

Diplomacy None

To be away from the misery of the battle front felt good, and King al-Muwahiidun intended on it staying that way for sometime. The imperial council decided to increase the tax’s flowing to the coffers so they granted many charters for trade to be opened with the Emirate; hopefully this will help with some of the bills.

The Hatamid Emirat (Sunni Islam, Ruined Damascus)

Sadalla al-Din, Sultan of Damascus

Diplomacy None

Hayrenik’un Armeniam (Eastern Orthodox, Hierancyra)

Hayrenik Mecatun Hieriea, Queen of the First Men

Diplomacy Galatia (NT)

With the arrival of the ORE supply ships bearing grain and gold, Queen Hieriea could rest easier at night knowing her people would not starve and her soldiers would stop grumbling, for awhile. Galatia also decided to reenter the sphere of Armenia, they figured with all the bad luck the Hayranikuún had the last few years, something good was bound to come there way soon.

Rum Khanate of Turkiye (Roman Catholic (Rome), Bursa)

Tyox, Khan of the Seljuq Turks

Diplomacy None

It was decided at the highest levels of government that a new era of peace would emanate from the Rum and to the surrounding regions. As a sign of goodwill, an Abbasi agent was escorted to the border and released. The nation also decided to help with the potential Armenian food shortage and a vast quantity of grain was sent to help the starving. The process of also expanding the works of the country continued as the postal road from Lydia to Isauria was expanded to allow for greater commerce and provide for the efficient movement of troops. The walls of several fortresses across the Khanate expanded; maybe peace wasn’t the first thing on the king’s mind, but old ways die-hard.

Oriental Roman Empire (Roman Catholic, Constantinople)

Theodore “the scribe”, Avtokrator of the Romans

Diplomacy None

Read the Republic, for the 345 time.

The Sword of Allah (Sunni Islam, Alexandria)

Jamis, Master of Cyprus, Sword of Allah

Diplomacy Faiyum (OH)

“The fierceness of the seas and the men who live on them. This from an old Cypriot saying shall forever be inscribed on the tombs of the men who saved Oran. There sacrifice shall be the measure by which we live!” Master Jamis had read the reports through and through, not missing a single detail. He would make sure to change battle plans and formulate new attack strategies to prevent such a complete destruction of a fleet again.

“The King of Salerno shall pay for this crime! The men of Cyprus have shown us the way to salvation! What you do with it is another matter! Make there lives count!” Yes thought Jamis, we shall pay them back!

The Empire of Egypt (Sunni Islam, Alexandria)

Badr II, Sultan of Egypt, Kalif of the West

Diplomacy Sinai (A) Alwa (P)

The Egyptians set out to reorder the landscape of their kingdom. The province of Alwa was purchased from the Kingdom of Dongola and promptly invaded by the armies of Egypt under the command of Assam with the intent of forceablly showing the citizens of Alwa what a nice and benevolent god Allah can be. After a few months of repeated burnings and drowning the people proclaimed there eternal love for Muhammad and became part of the Empire. General Assam was displeased to note that enough infidels had run to the hills to one day be a problem. The expansion of the Egyptian economy expanded at a brisk pace and the thoughts of war in far off Turkey seemed long forgotten as the Sultan set about building a new city in Dongola, the expansion of ElÚqsor and much needed public baths in Mansura. A call also went out to send the faithful to the regions of Suakin to help in the teachings of the prophet. This general reorganization also applied to the military at large as troops were reassigned and garrisoned in territories, which feel the repeated sting of raids and pirate activity. With all this done Sultan Badr II rested and hoped that peace would last a bit longer as many things were went to be accomplished, Praise be to Allah!

Eastern Europe

Mercenaries: 12i, 12c, 5w

The Western Turki (Asiatic Pagan, No Capital)

Mahea, Queen of the Turki and the Polovotsy, Lord of the Steppe

Diplomacy None

Ate turkey.

The Great Khanate (Asiatic-Pagan, No Capital)

Tesuido Khan, Lord of the Tzin-Kiang, the Suzhou, the Memar

Diplomacy Polovotsky

What worked once usually works twice thought the Khan? Those pushovers in Shirvan needed to be taught a lesson, and his new saddle needed to be broken in.

Success was easy for one as skilled as Tesuido. Far be it from anyone to say otherwise. Now his wedding needed to be planned, the Neogoths were not what you would called a cultured people, but troops are better then no troops and if he had to sacrifice himself for the Khanate then so be it, there’s always some others in the harem to keep him warm at night!

The nation of Rwawadid was falling apart and it felt good to the Khan! All that gold and plunder! The sheet terror throne into the eyes of the populace! What could be more fun!

The Yasi (Asiatic Pagan, No Capital)

Tzoemir Khan, Destroyer of the Khazars, Stormblade

Diplomacy Ialomita (A)

With thoughts towards the continued future of the Yasi, King Tzoemir set about to bring further peoples of the surrounding tribes within the fold. With success the people of Ialamotia choose wisely to join. “Isn’t it amazing what the presence of 20,000 odd troops will do to motivate Usfazer?” Commented the King to the Prince Royal. Usfazir only smirked and continued to eye the movement of his troops.

Western Roman Empire (Roman Catholic(Paris), Ochridia)

Euthemius Porphyrogenitua, Rex Bulgaris, Duke of Illyricum, Emperor of the Romans

Diplomacy None

With a great bought of pent up energy brought on from years of being kicked around, King Porphyrogenitus decided that enough was enough and that the Western Roman Empire would no longer be the punching bag of Europe. Lands were stripped of dead trees and decaying cows to make way for new farms to be tilled under the bright sun of the East. A demobilization of the army was combined with and intense training program to wipe the men in to shape, resulting in a smaller but much more effective fighting force. The Great Monolith began taking shape as the Emperor decided that a place of wonder was needed, Hadrian had his Pantheon why could he not have his. This beautiful tomb will forever remind the people of the power and majesty of the ruling family and be a focus for renewed patriotism in the nation.

Varangian Rus Kiev (Eastern Orthodox, Kiev)

Thorfinn the Old, Prince of Kiev, Lord of the Rus and the Varig

Diplomacy None

Stared into the Great Plains.

The Ests (Euro-pagan, Reval)

Valthan Christoslayer, King of the Estonians and Sons of Rurik

Diplomacy None

“I order a census to be taken off all my subjects, making sure to count everyone whom calls this land home. I wish to do this so I may have a legacy to leave this word in the manner in which the efficiency of my government operates, all shall be treated equally!” King Christoslayer didn’t really care that much, but the extra income would help the country and his son to put the Ests on the map. With a road from Reval to Riga completed at least things would move quicker. The remainder of the Est High Command went about the business of running a country. The days have passed when the King rides the steppes and raids his enemies; a quiet time now settles in as he prepares for death, hopefully God will be merciful?

Duchy of Lithuania (Roman Catholic, Vilna)

Duke Wladimir the First

Diplomacy None

Sat on the Baltic looking at the fish’s.

Duchy of Poland (Roman Catholic, Warsaw)

Ziemowit Curlyhead, Duke of Warsaw, King of the Poles

Diplomacy Prussia (T) Masuria (NT)

Things were looking up for the Duchy of Poland. The slight problem of the Prussian slaves taken sometime ago was settled when King Ziemowit decided to visit the province and set all his hapless prisoners free before the Prussian Lords, they except his speech on matters of peoples freedoms, but this backfires when his comments on how good it is to be catholic don’t exactly sit well with the Prussians who forcefully, but politely decline. The matter of Little Poland was also taken up in the various departments of government and it was decided to relocate unemployed and impoverished peasants to the lands south to help with the restoration of the productive soil there. Things went well and Little Poland is back on track to being a productive region.

Scandia And The Out Isles

Mercenaries: 12w, 3i, 4c, 5t

Kingdom of Svear (Roman Catholic (Rome), Uppsala)

Erik Lughassen, Christian King of Scandia

Diplomacy Skane (

Things remained quiet in the frigid north. The King ordered an expedition to Uppsala with a hand written proposal to join with the Holy Catholic Church. The peoples of Uppsala were proud to see that it truly was indeed written in his own hand. The compliment they felt was truly a touch from god. So with a unanimous vote, Uppsala became Catholic in one gigantic ceremony. The King was busy constructing a new road to Norway when he heard the good news. To celebrate this wondrous event a month of celebration was ordered. All in Svear gave cheer to the King!

The Norwegians (Euro-pagan, Hordavil)

Bjarne Hejarsson, “The Red”, King of the Norwegians

Diplomacy None

Darn its cold up here!

Jarldom of Orkeneyjar (Roman Catholic, Kirkval)

Bjorn Torvalds, vikingrik na orkneyjar

Diplomacy Brest in Brittany (F)

With a great roar the troops of Bjorn set fourth to reap the booty from the land across the North Sea Way. Only the fleet hadn’t counted on the untimely death of Magnus and Olaf. A strange malady had passed through the fleet only days before sailing and it didn’t take long for it to reak reek havoc aboard ship. It was with a heavy heart that the fleet set sail back to port and the preparing of the many funerals to come. Success was noted on the diplomatic front as Breat was brought fully into the Jarldom of Orkeneyjar, something the Frenchies didn’t mind, but had difficulty pronouncing. It was also with a sadness that as the years went on nobody, had hear from Prince Gydur, his disappearance being a bad omen as his knowledge of the seas was second to none. King Bjorn could only think of what could have been.

The Commonwealth of Iceland (Roman Catholic, Thingvellir)

Lauren Silverhair, Jarl of the New Islands

Diplomacy None

Even far out to sea Queen Lauren could still see the glow of the former capitol, beautiful under the northern lights. The moving of her peoples to new lands in far off Europe provided the only hope for the continued survival of the Icelandic state. Most were in good spirits, laughing, talking about what their new land would be like. “It is not good to dwell in the past for to long,” whispered Lauren softly, when the present required all ones attention. At least the expedition to punish the foul Deutsche was going ahead. Fionne and General Snorri had left with the bulk of the Commonwealth file. Seeing them sail off had bullied the spirits of the peoples.

Unfortunately General Snorri returned not long after with the sad news of the fate of the Orkeyjar generals. It was decided after that to simply return to the fleet and escort it to there new home in France. Maybe next time?

Bið Lauren
at unni þér
(sann's goðs maðr)
grundar sinnar;
sann of getr
af goði sjolfum
ár ok frið
ollum monnum,

(Pray Lauren
he unto you
(she's God's women)
grants her country;
she now gets
from god truly
bounty, peace,
bless'd for mankind.)

Tuath Kingdom of Thomond (Roman Catholic, Clonfert)

Sean ard-Brien, High King of Eire

Diplomacy None

Minded their own business.

Saxon Kingdom of England (Roman Catholic, London)

Robert Godwin, King of the Britons

Diplomacy Dyffed (Heresy!)

King Robert figured that it would do no good for his immortal soul to allow the deprivation and misery of the peoples of the Commonwealth of Iceland. So he ordered his fleet to mass and transport its peoples to their new homeland in Poitu. The operation went without incident and maybe he can count someone in his corner for a change.

The small matter of trying to find out who was behind the problems in Dyffed has caused many hours of sleeplessness. Bishop Heethman is good at rooting out the cancer of heresy and was appointed Witch Hunter General and sent to investigate and motivate the population back into the folds of the mother church. Only time will see if something good comes out of this all.

Western Europe

Mercenaries: 10i, 10c, 3hc

The PEACE OF GOD: AD 1115 ~ 1150

Synods in Rome, Paris and Cherbourg. No conclusion.

Das Deutches Konigsreich (Roman Catholic (Rome), Hanover)

Joseph the Good, King of the Germans, Emperor of the West

Diplomacy Pomern (EA)

Ahhh, thank god those pesky Vikings wouldn’t be a thorn in my side. King Joseph was vigilant though not to fall back on past laurels and had his military commanders stay alert to any signs of Viking action. “My mistake wasn’t to naw off the little Iceland king’s head in the first place, you see Von Hessing, in order to rule one needs to kill and not slap. Mercy may be for the priests, but not for the king.” Von Hessing just nodded and kept staring at the ceiling. Thankfully other matters kept the peoples busy with building in Thuringia and a massive increase in the Kriegsmarine forces around Kopenhagen.

Duchy of Bohemia (Roman Catholic (Rome), Praha)

Sviatel, Duke of Bohemia, Prince of Prague

Diplomacy Bochnia (EA)

Things were quiet in Bohemia this turn, a vacation was necessary and the Royal House remained in incognito for sometime. Some much needed government support was provided by the Papacy and the ebb and flow of paperwork continued.

Anacletan Papacy (Roman Catholic (Paris), Paris)

Anacletus III “Shorthand”, Shepherd of the North

Diplomacy None

Did the Pope stuff.

The Kingdom of France (Roman Catholic (Paris), Cherbourg)

Henry The Young, Duke of Normandy, King of the Western Franks

Diplomacy None

.

Le Royaume de Bourgogne (Roman Catholic (Rome), Burgone)

Philip the Blind, Duke of Burgundy

Diplomacy None

Ate bread and cheese.

La Milice du Christ (Roman Catholic (Paris), Paris)

Guilliame de Guiscard, Count of Gascony and Orleans, Master Brother of the Militia of the Temple

Diplomacy None

Prayed to god.

The Kingdom of Hyperborea (Roman Catholic (Paris), Cavalleri)

Silverweasle, King of the Lithuanians, Poles and Savoyards; Defensor Christianum

Diplomacy None

The great host of Hyperborea sat behind the walls and defenses of the realm preparing for something, the troops spent countless months preparing for war. Something about Venice echoed through the men’s thoughts but no captain would give a hint as to the source of the gossip.

La Serrinissima (Roman Catholic (Rome), Venice)

Marcus of Vinicenza, Doge of Venice, Sea King

Diplomacy None

It came as a surprise to Marcus, Doge of Venice that no news had arrived speaking of great victories and battles in the Middle East. Just boring reports speaking of the bad moral, bad food, and dysentery gripping the men. No word of action had arrived from Byzantium or Kiev. With the death of Basil, the current Crusade was loosing steam. Regrettably, Marcus simply cancelled the actions of Lt Senipro, as this small expeditionary force would in no way be able to take on the Muslims personally. Anyways, disturbing news had reached him about the sighting of a large armada off the coast of Sicily heading towards North Africa; maybe things would soon be heating up again?

The Papal States (Roman Catholic (Rome), Rome)

Victor II, bishop of Rome, vicar of Jesus Christ, successor of the prince of the apostles, supreme pontiff of the universal Church, primate of Italy, archbishop and metropolitan of the Roman province, sovereign of the Papal States, servant of the servants of God

Diplomacy Latium (ch) Naples (ab) Venice (ch) Bohemia (ch)

Things were quiet in the alleys and streets of the Vatican, almost to quiet. Nominal services of government support were provided to needy countries and always the funds from a grateful populace for providing salvation poured into the coffers

Norman Principality of Salerno ý Leon (Roman Catholic (Rome), Naples)

Marco Silvio de Stanttito, Prince of Sicily, Duke of Naples, Lord of Bolonga, King of the Italians

Diplomacy Tuscany (T)

“The wind feels good gentlemen! I have every confidence that we shall soon set foot on the soil of Oran and crush and opposition to us!” This only moments before the fleet spotted the Naval units of Cyprus and Oran. If the wind indeed hadn’t been in the Salerno favor, Marco felt swimming to Sicily may have taken awhile.

With the forces of their enemies scattered and burning, Marco ordered that the fleet set shore in Cheliff. This first step in victory to victory! After the seizing of the regional governors house, finally the forces of the Oran field army appeared. It didn’t take long before the wounded were pouring in, but the day was indeed for the forces of Italy, if only that wily old general for Oran hadn’t been there, a complete victory may have resulted.

“On to Fez men! There’s not much fight left in them now! “ Was the cry! But with so many dead behind the forces of the Catholic nation just couldn’t take the field and were forced to abandon the plains of Cheliff! Oh the bother of it all! Damn!

King Marco Silvio de Stanttito pondered long and hard as to what may happen now? Deep in the enemies territory? Far from home, but victorious in some small way? A plan was formulating in the back of his head!

The Catholic Kingdom of Spain (Roman Catholic (Paris), Castellon)

Hugert, Baron of Castellon and Valencia

Diplomacy Acquitaine (F) Asturias (T)

King Hugert had made all the preparations carefully in advance so nothing would be out of the ordinary. Detailed instructions were given to his various commanders to insure that his plans were carried out to the letter.

Unfortunatly, by the time word was received from his forward scouts, his army was already crossing the mountains into Aragon. I general smell about the place and a glowing horizon should have made his majesty more aware, but as it is a Kings right, he chose to march on.

The intended plan of inhabiting an empty but prosper land was gone. The remaining soldiers in the Aragon army where no match for a fresh army, but try they did and threw themselves on the advancing Valencians spears.

After some fighting, the Elders that could be found surrendered to King Hugert. Promising fealty to his name, but unable to give anything else as the region was a desolate wasteland.

“The plans are falling apart, why can’t just once I, a sovereign King, anointed by God have everything fall together!” Hugert at least satisfied himself with the knowledge that his other plans had been successful in Acquatiane and Asturias. Maybe something good would come out of this all?

The Akramid Sultanate (Sunni Islam, Seville)

Mohamar, Sultan of Granada

Diplomacy None

The repeated volleys of siege engines continued to land in the camp of General Achmed. His mind could not begin to even envision what Sultan would do to him when he returned? This mission to Aragon was to have been a simple affair, get the heathens to follow us to Leon and prosperity and become one with the true faith, a simple task.

Things went from bad to worse immediately. A simple map error had put the army in a valley where many days were wasted backtracking. And time was giving to the peoples of Aragon to formulate first before talking to the Sultans armies a reason for why they had come.

After much delay and audience was brought together with the Elders of Aragon. The words and promises of Sultan Mohamar were read out load for all to hear, proclaiming a new land awaited them free from Christian tyranny and the marauding armies from the North. Some time was taken for the Aragon people to decide. Nazim though knew that even a bad decision on there part opened up a new plan for him, for his orders were not to leave Aragon empty handed!

Anyway possible they were to join willingly or they would come in irons. It wasn’t until the spring that Nazim new something wasn’t right. With no warning, upon a dark night, the crazed rebels of Aragon gave Nazim his answer! Fanatics attacked the main army camp, most were killed and some captured, but not before Prince Hamit was found with his throat cut. Nazim immediately began executing any civilian he could find. Crazy with what the Sultan would do to him, he simply became a raving lunatic and killed anyone he laid his eyes upon. Nazim’s attempts to crush the revolt only destroyed any further judgment he had as his skills in combat never had been that good. Rarely did he listen to General Achmed who constantly tried to remind Nazim what he was doing wrong.

Time was wasted and many lives lost before Nazim finally received word of his recall to the capitol. His sanity cracked and he was seen riding of into the hills tearing his hear out and screaming it wasn’t his fault! General Achmed quickly took charge and devised a new battle plan to combat the rebels. He would appear from know where and disappear again like them, hitting and striking where he wanted, always keeping the rebels off guard.

Finally he forced the Aragon army to commit the mistake he had waited for and engaged them before they could flee near the border of Navarre. Three days and nights of bloody conflict followed and hardly such carnage has been seen in Spain since the days of Hannibal. The rebel army has ceased to exist fewer then a 100 prisoners where taken. The rest simply disappearing. Many where seen to be jumping from cliffs and bridges.

At this point General Achmend, his army bloodied and battered heard from his scouts of a Valencian Army advancing across the Mountains to the East. With Aragon a rebellious province still, the forces of the Sultan crossed over the mountains to Murcia to plan a new strategy. Let the Valencians deal with these peoples.

Ummayad Sultanate al Oran (Sunni Islam, Oran)

Muawiya, Sultan of the West, Emir of Oran and Mahidia

Diplomacy Palermo (F)

Things couldn’t have been worse for the situation of Oran. With the death of King Muawayia, the government was in the middle of a change in power when the forces of Salerno hit! A naval engagement in the Bay of Tunis with a combined fleet of Cypriot Pirate warships was able to make a significant impression upon the mercenary forces of the Salerno armada. After hours of constant harassment over the half the Salerno fleet lay at the bottom of the Med along with all of the Oran and Cypriot Fleets.

On the plains of Cheliff the forces of Oran were no match for the ground forces arrayed against them. There only hope was to retreat and engage with the remainder of the Oran field army massing outside Fez. The brilliant tactics of Sheykh Umar of Cheliff prevented a full-scale route.

General Jaffe had prepared his defenses well and was more then ready for the Salerno Army, which marched towards Oran. The lines of cavalry in Armour and formation glinted brilliantly in the sun. A mass attack was launched against the heavy infantry in the center of the Salerno line, for they had born the brunt of the combat again Umar and appeared well worn. With gritted determination, the forces of Oran were able to beat the Salerno army back into Cheliff but this had spent their power.

General Valenzia could only wait and read the messages as the came in about what was happening across the sea. Hopefully the new King, Cahtalon would soon return from a secret mission abroad.

Indeed thought Cahtalon, his father dead and the dirty Salerno armies in his nation, vengeance will be mine! His mission to Palermo had been a success! A commander in Palermo who had stood in his way was no in the darkest pits of some foul hell and the city council of Palermo had voted to join the cause of Oran, for the Prophet still called to them!

Things had changed in Oran, the enemy still held land, but that to could be avenged!

The Red Sea And Environs

Mercenaries:

Makuria Kingdom of Dongola (Coptic, Omdurman)

John, Negusa-Negast of the Makuria

Diplomacy Adowa (T)

With little fanfare the daily Dongola gazette announced in broad, black glyphs, DONGOLA GO’S MAD FOR MUHAMMED! Most people simply went about their business, more intrigued about what the government was up to with Egypt. Alwa seceded? Rumors of gold payoffs? Very strange indeed? To bad the diplomats sent to Ilubador had been thrown out, bad manners or something. A good diplomatic victory was what the King wanted.

The Yemeni Rassid Imamat (Sunni Islam, Mecca)

Ibrahim ur’Adal, Emir of Yemen, Guardian of the Holy Places

Diplomacy None

Changed the sheets.

Ar Rassid Imamat as Sa'na (Sunni Islam, Sana)

Abu Jahal, “the Jackal”, Imam of the Beni Makhzum

Diplomacy Berbera (F) Adal (F)

The eyes of Abu Jahal stilled shine with a keenness that had earned him the title of the ‘The Jackal’. The years had been rather kind to him, but he felt that it was time to do something for his people and prepare the way for his son and heir, Azir Abu Haharen to take the throne his death. Many a late night and day were spent together, the King telling him all the tricks and secrets that came with being a leader. The problem was that Abu never died. The years continue to move ahead and the seers at court continue to give Abu many more years of life. Sometime the glory of battle would be a far better death then that of boredom. But, those are things left to a younger generation. Besides his commanders had far greater duties to perform than to watch an old man die

.

The Chwezi Dynasty (African-Pagan, Gamo-Gofa)

Ndahura, Lord of Bigo Bya Mugenyi, King Ba-Chwezi

Diplomacy None

Quiet.

West Africa

Mercenaries: 5i, 3w

The Soninke Kingdom of Koumbi (Sunni, Kumbi-Saleh)

Yuloui, gh?na of Koumbi, Queen of the Mandé

Diplomacy None

Planted fruits.

The Dia Kingdom of Songhay (African-Pagan, Timbuctu)

Baru, dia Songhay, "The Damned"

Diplomacy Gorouol city (ea)

King Baru was pleased that the Garaou now groveled at his feet. He knew as they did, that his mother’s death had been at the hands of these cowards. But to build an empire you must keep your enemies very close. After the ceremonies marking the day of joining, Baru thought that perhaps some other loose ends could be tied up as well, namely those non-pagans in Segu! His orders to General Zabou were explicit, “They join, and they live! Refuse, they die!” Now, General Zabou, never being one to question orders followed the Baru’s orders to the letter. It was not surprising to him that upon reaching Segu they had heard about the Kings command, funny since it was to be a secret? Everyone in Segu wholeheartedly endorsed the Kings proposal. Everyone would again be pagan, ahhh no more collections. All praise the Gods of Dirt and Water!

The Usama-Yoruba Empire (African-Pagan, Ibo)

M’Bwanza, Chief of the Bini, Prince of Usama, High King of the Yoruba

Diplomacy None

Kept to themselves.

The Bakongo Kingdom of Kanem and Bornu (African-Pagan, Ngazargumu)

Nombato, King of the Kongo, Lord of Great Kongo

Diplomacy None

Watched the summer solstice.

South Africa

Mercenaries: 6i, 4t, 2hi

The Luba Empire of Malawi (African-Pagan, Luba)

Langalibalele, King of Luba, Lord of the Bone Chair

Diplomacy None

The King, speaking from the Bone Chair, when he made the announcement, said, “She has slain a lion, alone, with a spear! How many of you, my hounds can say that? If I say she can wear the skin of her kill as a cape-of-office, female or not, will any of you dare to growl? The cape is hers to wear, and steel too, if she should wish. The time comes near for the true washing of the spears, and she has shown herself worthy to take part in it!” The words of the King where relayed throughout the kingdom! Now even a women may where the skins of a lion? Many of the older generation thought this too much, but all who loved the king cheered. Things are done differently these days. Who knows what the future may bring, with a daughter a prince and a son now the Heir, Langalibalele felt confident that tomorrow would be even brighter for his country.

The Mwene-Mutapa Empire (African-Pagan, Mwene-Mutapa)

Chakran, Lord of Great Mutapa

Diplomacy Kafue (No!), Tswana (t)

An intense round of diplomatic negotiations with Ngunu and Tswana kept the diplomatic corp. busy. The ink was barley dry on the treaty with Tswana when problems arose with the Nguni. A strange custom required of foreigners required taking you shoes of in the presence of the king, why it could not be remember and it didn’t really matter since the King of Nguni was a blind as a band, but it was custom. The problem arose when the King was to be presented to Princess Sala, to whom he was marring to seal the treaty. When she arrived she removed her shows and was to enter the throne room when the diplomats of Mutapa quietly shuffled her into an adjoining room. When she asked what was the matter, the chief negotiator told her of another local custom that said it was a bad omen for a leader to marry a women with feet bigger then his. With the treaty about to fall apart and everyone thinking prison would be there next duty post. A junior member of the team quickly came to a solution. A local girl was quickly found who looked like the princess and had small feet. Since all a marriage ceremony in Nguni was for the King to grunt 3 times and it was done. She was paid handsomely to sit on the floor, receive the grunts and then the Princess could take here place, as royalty never has to remove their shoes.

The Namaqua KhoiKhoi (African-Pagan, Namaqua)

Xamseb, Chief of the KhoiSan, Protector

Diplomacy None

Minding their own business

The Raja Kingdom of Malay-Betis (Hindu, Imerina)

Amanitore, High Judge, Raja-Lord of Imerina

Diplomacy None

Mind their own business.

North America

Lots of deer, and funny looking flamingos…

Valley of the Yokuts (North American Pagan, Eagle’s Nest)

Shining Scales, Valley-Lord, Son of Bear-Killer

Diplomacy None

Down in the Valley, the valley so low…

The Hohokam (North American Pagan, Naco)

Tawa, Speaker to Thunder-beasts

Diplomacy None

Prince Makya was promoted to heir in a ceremony, which made his father proud. The process of teaching new ways to the people went on and the King was confident that the old clan ways would soon pass with the older generation; new ways were needed for tomorrow. Work was also completed on the plans for a new impressive road network to better serve the government in its quest to keep the right numbers on the books. A prayer to Tawquadahmawk was made to help in this great endeavor.

The Sioux People (North American Pagan, Bufalo)

Nawanda, "The First"

Diplomacy None

“Many a sunny day may pass son, but one must also be ready for the cloudy days as well.” The Chief of the Sioux thought such words would help strengthen his son’s wisdom in the world. The heir general though only seemed interested in the hunt and his wife. Chastising him didn’t seem to help, but thought Nawanda, ‘I to was young once.’

The Dakota Tribes (North American Pagan, Mankato)

Crazy Dog

Diplomacy None

The Dakota sat around wondering why on Earth they lived in the Dakota’s?

The Haudenosaunee (North American Pagan, None)

Chondote, Proud Chief, Stone-Stick, Lord of the Ongwehonweh

Diplomacy None

Everyone roasted marsh mellows.

The Huron Canadians (North American Pagan, Oh Canada!)

White Wolf, Chief of the Guyandot

Diplomacy None

Resting quietly in the cold north.

The Moundbuilders (North American Pagan, Cahokia)

Crow, Lord of Illini, Master of Michigamea, Spear-master

Diplomacy

Why is the sky blue?

The Atakapa Councils (North American Pagan, Ayoel)

Heap of Birds, Reed-Lord

Diplomacy None

Let think of something really big?

The Echota Confederation (North American Pagan, Echota)

Nottley, Wind-Holder

Diplomacy None

Didn’t bother a soul.

Central America

Mercenaries: 4i, 2t

TzinTzunTzan (Meso-American, TzinTzunTzan)

Tz'yu, Huey Quetzl

Diplomacy Tepuztec (

The days of being independent were numbered for TzinTzunTzan. King Tz’yu had for sometime been throwing around the idea of joining with the Zapotec. The only roadblock had been the untimely death of his daughter Hanu from a strange malady. His family had been crushed and his government was worried about the implication now that Zapotec had provided them with grain to prop up failing domestic production. Only time could tell, maybe with the birth of his new daughters, something in the future would allow the planets to align correctly to give a solemn sign of prosperity.

Zapotec Kingdom of Mitla (Meso-American, Mitla)

Tzintzunotzlin, Son of Sky-Wheel-Speaker

Diplomacy None

Another go was given at trying to get TzinTzunTzan to join up with the Mitla, it looked good for sometime but in the end the ceremonies fell apart and Prince Pachamatl made his way back home, hoping his father wouldn’t be to angry. Meanwhile King Tzintzunotzlin went about his day giving all he could in the way of sacrifices to the Gods, but he was running out of willing victims, hmmm.

The Triple Alliance (Méxica) (Meso-American, Tiacopan)

Eight Deer, King of the Tiacopan, Lord of Texcoco and Tula

Diplomacy None

Out looking for a King.

Chichen Itze (Meso-American, Chichen Itze)

Zerdan, Priest King of the Maya

Diplomacy: Chontal (T) Popoluca (NT)

An heir born to Zerdan made the days somewhat more interesting as the business of running a nation was not that interesting and he never had much fun. His wedding had been fun, the honeymoon fun, but now, sign this, and sign that. Some regions at least had decided to join up, but that to would mean more paperwork. With the passing of Saiia, and Pandaraa, the days became even darker.

The Inca Coast

Land of the Moon-Cult

The Moon Kingdom of Quito

Pocomoc II, Moon Prince of Valdivia, Lord of the Moon Cult, Listener to the Great Eye, Eater of the Moon-Pie

(Moon-Cult,

Diplomacy: Nicaro (T) Nicoya (t)

Thoughts of peace recently had intruded on the Moon Prince and that maybe killing your enemies could better be accomplished by first talking nice to them, getting to join his kingdom and then sacrifice them, hmmmm much thought will have to be given to this. “Go forth and spread the good word of the Great Eye, let all around hear the goodwill that we can bring and the richness of our lands will join with there’s and all shall be free from hunger!” As the generals surrounding the King didn’t quite no what do, as others not to long ago have felt the not so nice side of Quito, maybe most wouldn’t take kindly to there offer. But, sword from the enemy or sword from the King, not to big a difference, at least being a diplomat you get good food. So of went the Ambassadors of the Quito, and most were surprised to here that the lands being offered economic and military assistance were quite open to the good will of the Quito King, so offers were struck and bargains made and the land of Quito increased in size. The King was happy the Generals were happy.

The Chimu Kingdom of Chanchan

Viracocha, The Young Sun

(South Amerind

Diplomacy Ataura (EA), Huari (F)

From High in the mountains, Prince Kuzul made his way through valleys and over plains via the recently finished Royal Highway from Chavin to Ataura. Making his way along the road, going over in his mind the proper language to be used for getting ChanChan and the Huari to join as one people. Long and hard had his father King Viracocha been planning for this event? Now everything would bear fruit and the power of the Chimu would increase. The promise of a better future for all peoples was a good thing he thought, and one day he to would rule it all.

Tiahuanako

Amehu the Fambly-Man, Lord of the City of Seven Walls

(South Amerind

Diplomacy None

Trying to find out the secret of life.

The Araucania Warrior-tribes

Tiku, Master of Swords, Lord of Mapuch, the Uniter, The Potent

(South Amerind

Diplomacy None

Busy writing new calendars.

(end)