TURN 5 ORDERS DUE: November 26th, I think <G> thats thanksgiving
weekend so I may push it to the following weekend. I’ll let you know
GM:
Jeff Morrison
1019 Ossington
Flint, Mi 48507
(810) 238-6425
PLAYER NOTES READ THIS!!!!!
You will notice the Persian Player submitted a flag or national banner
Symbol. Feel free to do likewise. Barring any problems i will include them
in the newsfax.
TURN COSTS AND MAPS
Turns: $2.00
Maps: I prefer to send maps out via e-mail, however if you need
a paper one, contact me and I will see what I can do.
RULE ERRATA
Secret Empires are not being played, which means secret empire commands
such as IL aren’t an option.
******* You must be Tech Level 3 to raise elite troops.********
Table of Religious interaction:
T= Tolerant
H= Hostile
RC= Roman Catholic
EO=Eastern Orthodox
CP= Monophysite (coptic)
CC= Celtic Christian
AC= Arian Christian
JD= Judaism
BH= Buddhist
HN= Hindu
OP= Oceanic Pagan
EP= European pagan
AP= Asiatic pagan
AF= African Pagan
ST= Shinto
ZO= Zoroastrain
DC=Druidic Christianity
TITHE
Tithes are gonna be treated as “IN” effect once set, the primate need
not try to establish them ever turn as long as the nation being tithed
agrees.
HAVE CHILDREN (HC)
Kings or Heirs doing a Rule action will be considered to be spending
time with their wife (if they have one) while seeing to all that paper
work so I will roll for child births during the period they are Ruling.
THE HISTORY
526-530AD
CHINA and JAPAN
Mercenaries:
17i,10c,5w,3t,5s
TAKEDA SHOGUNATE
Shogun Chuichi
Diplomacy: Ueshiba (t)
Peace and quiet reigned in Japan as Shogun Chuichi built many fine parks and monuments in his lands. His lovely wife bore him a son in 527 AD.
Ueshiba agreed to pay tribute.
KOREA
King Ura
Diplomacy Shangtung (fa) Parhae (nt)
King Ura set about organizing his lands that he had conquered from the Liao. His Heir Kim Ho took command of the army and watched for any attacks from what was left of the Liao but none came.
The King himself went to Shengtung and the region agrees to feudal military
service.
THE KHANATE OF THE HSUING’NU (was the Yen Kingdom of Liao-Yang)
Jamuka Khan
Diplomacy: none
Queen Yeni went to her brother, the Khan of the Hsuing’nu, on bended knee. The Queen offered her brother the chance to gain lands in the fertile south. For her people to inherit the govnt, and bureaucracy of the Civilized Chinese, and most importantly a way for the Hsuing’nu clans to be seen as a legitimate Chinese power.
After some negotiating and back room deal making Jamuka Khan agreed to the deal. He would be come Khan with his nephew as heir.
The process of marrying the two separate cultures began. The govnt retained
its Chinese civilized behavior. But the people, the few Chinese of the
Yen left, were quickly absorbed into the more numerous Hsuing’nu.
THE NORTHERN EMPIRE OF THE GOLDEN DRAGON
Emperor Si Lei
Diplomacy: Hopei (a) Houma (f) Kaifeng (ea)
The Northern Dragon spent there time using diplomacy to consolidate their empire. Also huge construction programs began.
The cities of Kaifeng, Si-Lei, and Shanso all increased in size.
The Empress gave birth to a son in 529AD.
Lei Wu-long was promoted to heir and married at court.
THE TOBA WEI
King Wei Han
Diplomacy: Yun (f) Shan’si (f)
Things were quiet in Toba Wei as the King ruled and built a city, Bao Ling, in the region of Yanzhi.
Buddhist missionaries had some succes converting the pagans in Lob nor
THE SOUTHERN EMPIRE OF THE GOLDEN DRAGON
King Hu Shi
Diplomacy: taiping (a) koueicho (f) Lin’an (a)
Anhui (f) Chiangning (a) Chiennan (nt) Kweichou (nt)
Nanling (ea)
The Southern Dragon were busy with intense diplomacy, trying their best to strengthen there ever expanding empire.
2 new port cities were built: Tii’fawn on the Yangste in Hubei, and Tii’ping on the Yangtse in Taiping. Also the road system continued to be expanded with a road running from Kwangchou into Kwangtung.
The Emperor mourned as his wife passed away in the spring of 526AD
His son Hu Tii II married and took his place as an active ruler of the
Empire.
.
THE CELESTIAL EMPIRE OF BUDDHA
Pei Lu
Diplomacy. None
The Buddhist church did very little. They must be very busy meditating.
THE TEMPLE OF THE SHAOLIN
Grandmaster Bodhidharma
Diplomacy: None
All was quiet
SOUTH EAST ASIA
Mercenaries:
18i, 4c ,9W,7t
THE KINGDOM OF BURMA
King Dei
Diplomacy: None
SEE: THE FALL OF SIAM
THE KINGDOM OF CHAMPA
King Tru Rhan
Diplomacy: Annam (ea)
THE FALL OF SIAM
The Siamese King Nikkon was assassinated while listening to reports,
from some scribe, about rice production.
Not long later, the combined armies of Champa and Burma struck into Siam. With the nation still unsure in the ruile of the new King the defense of the region was not well planned.
The Champa-Burmese alliance crushed the poorly led Siamese driving them from the field with great slaughter. They were pusued all the way into the un walled capital city of Nikkon. The royal family perished in the slaughter that took place.
Siam passes into History. Its out lying regions sinking into chaos and
independance.
PACIFICA
Mercenaries:
5i, 5w, 5t
THE SRIVIJAYAN EMPIRE
King Puran
Diplomacy: none
King Puran was busy dealing with his over zealous bean counters, but he did have time to spend time with his wife and the couple had a son in 528 AD.
Prince Toopa was also sent out to add to the kingdom. The pagan region of Utara was pacified and forced to pay tribute.
Hindu missionaries had some good success in winning converts in Jambi.
INDIA
Mercenaries:
7i,3c,3s,5w,5t
THE KINGDOM OF PANDYA
King Parjna
Diplomacy: gangas (a)
Pandyan diplomats brokered an alliance with Gangas while the King over saw the day to day affairs of state.
The City of Madras was also expanded.
Lord Virshna died in his bed in 528AD
THE KINGDOM OF LANKA
King Rajma
Diplomacy: Chera (ea)
The king dealt with the day to day affairs whil he also sent diplomats to Chera, obtaining economic agreements. The Queen had a Daughter in 528AD
Lord Arvinda was sent east and heavily plundered the coasts of the Rich
land of Pegu and then the lands of Thaton. With the Burmese off fighting
in Siam there was no resistance and the people suffered for it.
THE ASAMAKARA EMPIRE
King Arami
Diplomacy: Pawar (a) Kakatiya (a) Chela (nt) Karnata (t)
Asamaka spent its time using diplomacy to try and regain the lands lost during the civil war and chaos that resulted from the change of Dynasties during the dark years of the plague.
The Queen had a daughter in 527 AD
Ofcourse the new Dynasty continues the traditions of the old one and
again sends slave raiders west to Africa. They tried to raid the Kushite
regions of Zeilla dn Djibuti but the defenders were to strong. They had
better success as they went farther down the horm toward somalia. It seems
the Africans are getting more organized.
THE GUPTA EMPIRE
King Erata
Diplomacy: Gtsang (fa) Samatata (nt)
The Gupta raised huge numbers of troops and pulled in all there out lying garrisons. Rumors quickly spread along trade routes warning neighboring nations that the Gupta may be stirring. Over 100,000 warriors were present in, or around, the Capital. Merchants feared their hefty profits gained by trading with the economic giant the Gupta’s are, would be threatened.
The other change from past policy was the concentration of diplomatic
effort in the east instead of the west.
THE HOLY CHURCH OF SHIVA
Sajid Tajuddin, his Holiness, beloved of Shiva.
Diplomacy: none
All was quiet
THE SWORD OF SHIVA
Shiva Chakravarti, grandmaster
Diplomacy: none
The Order continued to build abbeys, this time building them in the
north and central lands.
THE MIDDLE EAST
Mercenaries:
40i, 31c, 65lc, 3w, 3t
THE SASSANID EMPIRE
Emperor Shapur IV, King of Kings, King of Persia, Babylonia and Parthia, the Overlord of Arachosia, the Holy Arm of Ahura Mazda, the Sassanid, Heir to the Achaemenids
Diplomacy: socotra (ea) Georgia (t)
Emperor Shapur IV watched with Pleasure as the Abadan Horde migrated west. Shapur quickly ordered hahmar and Abadan liberated.
Kuwait was another matter. The Emir of Oman and Shapur worked out a deal. Large sums of Gold flowed into the Sassanid coffers and Kuwait was abandoned and occupied by Oman.
Prince Yazdegerd and his army joined the Zoroastrian crusaders and march west to make war against the Infidels. SEE: THE BATTLE FOR THE NILE
These were peaceful years for the citizens of the Empire. The invading
Muslims had been driven west. Large numbers of recruits had been raised
to replace the Empires losses and Imperial lands were regained.
THE KHANATE OF KARA-KHITAI
Osman Khan
Diplomacy: parapavura (t) Ferghana (f)
Osman Khan ordered massive improvements to his capital of Samarkand. While administering his Khanate he watched in pleasure as Samarakand was transformed in a beautiful vibrant city. More wonderful news was the birth in 527AD of a son.
The other significant event was the arrival of Zoroastrian priests.
30,000 Khazar Cavalry swear allegiance to the church. Sworn to the
cause of Zoroastrianism these men march away with the priest into Sassanid
Persia.
ZOROASTRIAN CHURCH
Siavash, blessed of Ahura Mazda
Diplomacy: none
Siavash called a crusade “Faithful of Ahura-Mazda, unite! The Infidel Muslims have not only attacked us but have taken the southern lands. But that is not all. Our spies tell us that it was done at the instigation of of the Romans in Constantinople. Take u arms! Join the ranks of the religious troops that will see the destruction of our enemies! Sassanids! Khitai ! Farohars! Join the crusade to rid the earth of the infidel scum!”
Together with the 10,000 Heavy Elite Cavalry “the light of ahura-mazda” unit of the Church, nearly 45,000 crusaders from the Sassanid empire and the 15,000 strong Sassanid army lead by Prince Yazdegerd march south but find the southern lands already abandoned by the Abadanese Muslims so pursuing them west for months they are suprised when they turn south, rumors had been heard they would occupy the lands near Syria. Trying to keep up is impossible the Islamic forces are all mounted and mostly light. The Zoroastrian army is largely on foot and heavy.
Reports come in, as they march through Jordan, that the Muslims had over run Sinai and had Mansura and a Battle was raging in Egypt.
THE BATTLE OF SINAI
The Zoroastrians crush the 18,000 strong light cavalry force left in
Sinai. The Muslims were engaged in Militarily converting the region and
were caught off guard when the 70,000 Zoroastrian zealot warriors fell
upon them. Prince Gamel tried to rally his Abadanese Cavalry but was slain
fighting a rear guard action against “The light of Ahura-mazda” Heavy Cavalry.
The disordered Muslims were crushed none escaped. The Zoroastrian Priest
Kharakhum orders the army into Mansura...
THE BATTLE FOR THE NILE
Pressing into Mansura the Zoroastrians find the main Adanese army.
It had been forced to retreat from Egypt and was reorganizing itself. Abu
Bekr, who had sustained a wound fighting the Egyptians, wasn’t at his best
but he got his army into a battle line and awaited the Zoroastrian assault.
The Arab armies still tired from their fight with the Egyptians had a hard time of it as the more numerous and more heavily armored, Zoroastriasn crashed into their line. The battle raged for hours and the Muslims got the worst of it. Slowly they were being forced back.
Fearing his army would be pushed into the Nile River itself; Abu Bekr leads a desperate attack on the left. The attack allows the Muslim armies to break away and flee.
The banks of the Nile are littered with dead. The Muslim armies flee north followed by the Zoroastrian Crusaders.
Kharakhums scouts report an Imperial Roman army entering the regions near Lebanon and Levant so the Zoroastrians call off the pursuit and march back to Mesopotamia victorious.
The crusaders return to their homes for the most part, some not wishing
to return to their former life join The Farohars of Ahura-Mazda. A religious
order founded by survivors of the initial wars against the Abadanese when
they invaded the Empire.
THE FAROHARS OF AHURA-MAZDA
Avesta, Master of the order
Diplomacy: none
Avesta watches from the balcony of his Orders Head Quarters as the Crusaders of the Zoroastrian cause march off to war with the Infidel. Letting his mind wander he recalls his own fight outside the Holy City of Ctesiphon against the Abadanese dogs. The battle had been Chaotic but Ahura-Mazda had been merciful and he and many of his comrades had not only survived that had been victorious. Their faith had lead them through those disastrous times and the Magi helped them in the healing process. A special kinship formed from the ordeal never again would the people of Ahura-Mazda feel such fear if he had a say. A devout group of warriors and Magi had spent long months afterwards in solitude. The One spoke to them. Soon after the Farohars of Ahura-Mazda were born, their cause to spread the word and protect the innocent.
Shaking himself out of his memories Avest turned and went back to work. Many new abbeys and sites must be founded to do the Orders work.
As the months and years passed they did just that. Then the Crusaders
returned with news of the Abadanese humiliation of defeat. And how they
had fled north to the safety near the cursed Romans. Most the returning
crusaders went back to their homes and families. However a good-sized group
felt as Avesta did and joined the Farohars.
THE CALIPHATE OF ADEN
Caliph Hamir
Diplomacy: Hijaz (nt) Petra (fa)
With the Middle East flowing with blood, Aden did its best to strengthen its place in the world. Hamir sent Gold to Oman to help bind ties with them. He also sent Diplomats north to Hijaz and Petra with some success.
Caliph Hamir also moved his family out of the Wealthy Royal palace and turned into a Mosque. By following the example of the Prophet Hamir hopes to be an example for his people.
His wife Kindi gave birth to a son in 527 and a daughter in 530AD
THE SHAHDOM OF ABADON
Shah Abu Bekr
Diplomacy: Syria (fa)
Abu Bekr’s vision tells him his peoples destiny is to the west. “Allah’s will” he tells his people. So they Loot the regions of Abadan and Hahmar, no reason to leave anything of value to the infidels, and then march west. The main armies strike into Sinai and Mansura where they meet little resistance. Amura is sent North to Syria, with the main tribal groups, for diplomatic talks.
Prince Gamel begins militarily converting the Sinai area.
THE INVASION OF EGYPT
Abu Bekr leads the main army of 50,00 Cavalry into Egypt, spies had
revealed that the Egyptian had given safe passage for the Syrians to travel
through their lands. Pretending to be a second force of Syrians the Abadanese
were able to get across the Nile and into heart of Egypt before the Egyptians
suspicions were aroused.
The Egyptians did there best to recover from the suprise but the Abadanese had early successes as they pushed the Egyptians back. The Coptic Church had been building Field forts near its Holy sights for years however and the Egyptian army rallied around them and was able to form a stable line The Abadanese stormed the line repeatedly and the blood flowed as men fell in droves. All morning the Muslims attacked the fort line with little success. But as the afternoon wore on several of the forts in the outer ring fell to the Muslims.
The turning point came in mid afternoon as Abu Bekr stormed part of the Egyptian line, which was anchored, between two forts. As the Muslims pushed the Egyptian line back missile fire (ballista and arrows) from the forts cut the Muslims to shreds. Abu Bekr himself fell, wounded in the shoulder by an arrow.
With their Leader wounded and casualties high the Muslim armies fall back across the Nile into Mansura. 20,000 Muslims were casualties, 14,500 Egyptians.
Also see THE BATTLE FOR THE NILE and THE BATTLE OF SINAI
THE EMIRATE OF OMAN
Omar, Emir of Oman
Diplomacy: Hadramuht (nt)
Oman sought to gain some fertile lands by negotiating with the Sassanid
Empire. And after some talks the Sassanids agreed to turn over Kuwait for
a price. Delivering the Gold in Person Emir Omar marched north, quickly
overran Dhahran, left a garrison, and then marched into Kuwait. There he
did indeed transfer large amounts of gold to the Sassanids.
THE EMIRATE OF SYRIA
Seluji, Emir of Syria
Diplomacy: None
Emir Seluji felt his position in Syria was unstable. So engaging in some talk with Egypt and the Monophysite Church, he was able to get a guarantee of safe passage through the Egyptian lands.
So in the spring of 526AD his people gathered together and set of on
a long migration across North Africa to find their destiny. SEE:
THE NORTH AFRICAN JIHAD
THE HOLY CHURCH OF MEDINNA
Imam Mohammed
Diplomacy: None
The fledgling Primacy imposed a Tithe on the faithful nations of Aden and Omar. They were unable to tithe the migrating Syrians and Abadanese.
Also a couple mosques were founded in Petra and Yemen.
MONOPHYSITE CHURCH
Patriarch Romarius
Diplomacy: none
In the Holy City of Alexandria, Romarius paced back and forth. He was waiting for news from his aid. The Church had become awhere lately that enemies of the tru faith had infiltrated their priesthood. His aid burst into the room excited “We have arrested several of them!” the aid said. “Who are that and what was there plan?” retorted Romarius The out of breath aid answered “ After some..er..interrogation...we found out they were sent by the Orthodox Church to subtly twist our teachings so they were more in line with the Orthodox faith. Our chief agent thinks there still may be a large number of Orthodox agents in our midst” Smiling Romarius said”We will get them..God is on our side. If he is for us who can be against us” He shortly found out when the Abadanese attack came less than a week later SEE: THE INVASION OF EGYPT
In the south, the lands of Kordofan became entirely followers of the Monophysite faith. A fair number of converts were also had in Kosti.
In the north the missionary work to Crete also was finished as the Island
became completely Monophysite.
THE ORDER OF THE THEBAN LEGION
Maurice, Grandmaster of the order
Diplomacy: none
Several member of the Theban order went north to aid the Coptic Church in its missionary work in Crete.
Monasteries were established in Egypt and Mansura.
THE EGYPTIAN EMPIRE
King Agoruvix, the Shield of Christ
Diplomacy: Ad’Diffah (a) Faiyum (fa)
King Agoruvix sends out a message throughout his lands
"I King Agoruvix, sovereign of all that is Egypt
bring exemplary news this day. I bring the assurance
that all may follow the religion of their choosing.
For many a year, the Emperor of the Romans forced
us to believe what they wanted us to believe. To
this we replied with revolution and bloodshed! We
made it known that we shall believe what we wish
to believe, and that is the foundation of my rule.
Now the people of Islam seek a home, they seek the
right to follow their beliefs. I will not refuse
them as the Roman have refused us. I will allow
these men to believe in their own god, and will not
allow any to take this basic human right from them.
Thereupon I bring news that the Emirate of Syria
wishes to hand over Jerusalem to us, and will allow
the people of Egypt to act as trustee of this holy
place.
Henceforth I decree that Jerusalem shall be open
to all pilgrims who wish to visit this holy city
regardless of their beliefs!
I also vow that anyone who shall restrict the
religious freedom of any man in this holiest of
cities shall meet the executioner’s blade!
Thanks is given to the people of the following
kingdoms and churches, without any of which, this
notion of peace could not have been achieved:
The Shahdom of Abadan, the Kingdom of Aden, the
Emirate of Syria, the Sassanid Empire, the Kingdom
of Ethiopia, the Zoroastrian primacy, the Coptic
church, and of course the Order of the Theban Legion
who reminds us of the 6600 Egyptian Christians who
were martyred by the Roman's because they believed
in their god and who taught us the lesson that no
sword can force any man to believe in any god other
then their own.
May God, Allah, and Ahura bless all of their
children with peace and understanding."
The Syrians peacefully migrated across Egypt and disappeared off into the west. Within a week a second group of Muslims came into view, claiming to be a second group of Syrian SEE: THE INVASION OF EGYPT
Prince Aetius was able to move into Levant before the Arab migrations began, there he took control of the abandoned land and Secured Jerusalem.
Tragedy struck in the spring of 530AD when King Agoruvix fell ill and
died. His son Tiberius was crowned King
EASTERN EUROPE
Mercenaries:
19i, 21c, 24lc, 3w, 3t
THE EASTERN ROMAN EMPIRE
Alexandros, Vasilevs, Avghoustos, kai Avtrokrator Romaion
Diplomacy: kyklades (fa)
Emperor Ioustinos watched with gladness as the Muslim hordes had burst out of Arabia and smashed into his Enemies. He had gathered a large army and large numbers of mercenaries hired, and built massive fortifications in cilicia. Waiting to see what would happen he told his troops they would wait 2 years and give the nations to the south time to weaken themselves further before the Roman army marched south.
During that time Helena, the Emperors daughter, was married to Maurice. Maurice became a prince and was appointed Praetorian Prefect of the East.
Also, fearing a Attack from the Sassanids, the royal family of Greater Armenia arrived in Constantinople.
The Emperor transferred Cappadocia and Pamphyla to Armenia as well.
As the spring of 527AD came the army became ready to march. The Emperor, who was still vigorous at 62, became ill and for weeks lingered in a feverish state. He finally passed away in April 527AD. Alexandros was recognized as Emperor.
Maurice took command of the army and marched south into Lebanon. Scouts reported an Egyptian army occupied Levant and Jerusalem. Not wanting to Risk a war until the new Emperor had time to establish himself the Romans waited in Lebanon.
However in the South they did blockade Alexandria in the hopes the Abadanese
would be able to siege the Capital of the Egyptian Empire.
GREATER ARMENIA
King Vahan, Arkhon Megalis Armenias
Diplomacy: Alan (t)
Diplomatic activity securing ties to the north with Alan met with success.
King Vahan conducted diplomatic talks in cappadocia. The Roman Empire expected him to follow the Imperial army but seeing the Empire was not attacked Vahan didn’t go. Some confusion it seems.
Vahan sent his family west to Constantinople incase Armenia was attacked.
While in Constantinople his wife died.
THE KINGDOM OF BOGUSLAV
Tsar Boguliub
Diplomacy: Peareslavl (fa)
Diplomatic efforts were again the main focus of this small nation.
A Port fortress was built in Crimea to protect the ferry.
The Tsar’s wife had a daughter in 527AD and a son in 530AD
THE ORTHODOX CHURCH
Patriarch Milorius
Diplomacy: none
Milorius was all set to call a Holy war to liberate Jerusalem from the Infidel Muslims. However that all went out the door when the Muslims abandoned it on their own and migrated west across North Africa.
He was also furious that the Monophysite church had rooted out many of his agents. Not to mention that the more overt attack to destroy much of the Monophysite hierarchy was also badly managed and failed.
Then there was the expected conversion of the Croats that never happened even though huge sums of gold had been sent to them.
Crete was completely converted to the Monophysite faith. More happy news for Milorius
Representatives of the church traveled as far north as Denmark to notify
these nations of tithes owed.
EASTERN AFRICA
Mercenaries:
10i, 5w, 5t
THE KINGDOM OF ETHIOPIA
King Kaleb
Diplomacy: kordofan (f) Sennar (f)
In Thebes the city of Karnak is ordered built around the port fortress already there.
King Kaleb traveled to Kordofan and brought the region into control.
Lord Aaron did the same in Sennar.
THE KINGDOM OF KUSH
King Amra
Diplomacy: Kobowen(c)
King Amra continued to meditate and pray to the sungodess. In 527AD he grew sick and died. Word of his resurrection spread amongst his people. His daughter Amurto used these to solidify her rule. Long live the Queen. She also built the port City of Amurto in Zeilla.
Huwara, her sister, was named heiress.
The Warlord of Harar was ordered to patrol the area of Djibuti. He intercepts
several groups of Coptic missionaries and executes them. The King had ordered
him to just detain the priests. But the King was dead and the warlord was
very anti-Christian.
WESTERN AFRICA
Mercenaries:
10i,5w,5t
THE KINGDOM OF KANEM
King Anabornu
Diplomacy: Zaria (f)
These were quiet years of consolidation and peace in Kanem
Lord Bankur died in 526AD
Prince Kula also died in 526AD
AKAN, LORDS OF THE GOLD COAST
King Barang
Diplomacy: none
Mourning swept the land as deaths in the ruling class happened one after the other.
In 526AD King barand passed away. Prince Bashar successfully became King.
Also in 526AD Lord Kenwar died.
In 527AD the Lord of Bennin passed away and the new ruler there declared his neutrality from Akan.
In 529 Gouda of Yoruba died, the new leader of Yoruba fortunately maintained the alliance with Akan.
All these death upset the careful planning of Akan.
THE KINGDOM OF AKWAR
Ghana Kunta
Diplomacy: none
No news was heard
KINGDOM OF MOSSI
King Kurr
Diplomacy: none
No news was heard
SOUTH AFRICA
Mercenaries:
5i,5w,5t
ZULU EMPIRE
King Tumba
Diplomacy: none
No news was heard
NORTH AFRICA
Mercenaries:
25i, 12c, 5s, 5w, 5t
THE KINGDOM OF THE VANDALS
King Octa
Diplomacy: none
THE NORTH AFRICAN JIHAD
Somehow word had come to the Vandals that the Arab Syrians were storming
across North Africa coming toward them. Patriarch Taborus, of the
Arian Church had called for a crusade and the crusaders from the Vandal
Kingdom were beginning to gather in Carthage. Rumors abounded that their
Visgoth allies were severing the ferry between Spain and North Africa.
This worried many that any Visgoth Crusaders or allied help might not be
forthcoming. His Holiness Taborus therefore called for several days of
fasting and praying in the hope of Divine help.
Lord Caewlin in the mean time had been sent with a small fleet to harass the Syrian advance and hopefully lay waste and tribal groups travelling with the Soldiers. Seeing the massive migration for the first time however, he knew this was hopeless. He set sail for Carthage with the terrible news of how large the Muslim group was Nearly 73,000 warriors. Carthage couldn’t muster anywhere near that. “Christ be merciful” Caewlin muttered.
The spring of 528AD saw the Muslim armies arrive at the eastern edge of the Vandal Kingdom. In Gefara the Vandals tried to fight a holding action as long as they could to allow the main army in Tunisia more time to prepare. Prince Lammas and the Baron of Gefara fought a desperate action; they were vastly outnumbered but had some field forts to anchor their fighting. But even so it was a brief fight. The Muslims were just to numerous and the Baron retreated into the port fortress “Fort Arias” while Prince Lammas retreated into Tunisia bringing news that the Muslims would arrive soon. The Syrians didn’t leave a garrison in Gefara; they had a bigger prize in mind-Carthage- so the Baron simply reoccupied his lands after the Muslims left.
In Tunisia King Octa was extremely nervous. Even with 19,500 crusaders raised his total army was still only about 28,500 strong. The Muslims over 70,000.
As the days passed the Vandals were steadfast in their prayers. Taborus constantly reassuring the masses that God would see them through. By June word had come that the Muslims were only a few days away. It was at this critical time that aid came from the west. Lord Turpin and 26,000 Visgothic Crusaders marched into Tunisia and met up with their Arian Vandal allies. Now with 54,500 to the Muslim 70,000+ the Vandals had hope.
On June 23rd the Muslim onslaught crashed into the Arian battle lines, only a few dozen miles from the Holy City of Carthage.
The attack began about noon and fierce fighting developed as both sides consumed by religious zeal ignored personal safety in their hunger to slay. The Arians made good use of their field forts by stationing men between them and using the forts as ways to anchor their lines to prevent the more numerous Arab Cavalry from over lapping their flanks and getting into their rear. For hours the Arabs stormed the Arian lines. Men fell in droves and the fields before Carthage were soaked in blood. Many tales of heroic acts were to be told. Lord Turpin fighting off a Muslim break in the Arian lines. Emir Sejuji repeatedly leading Muslim Cavalry charges into the heart of the enemy lines. It was said that the heroic became the norm in this epic battle. But as dusk came and darkness fell both sides fought on until they could see no more and then the Muslims pulled back. Both sides gathering their wounded. Casualties were horrific as the Muslims suffered 31,500 casualties, the Vandals 25,000.
Emir Seluji was desperate he had abandoned his lands in the east and come all this way. He needed victory or his people were likely doomed. North Africa was no place for a defeated, disordered, homeless people to survive.
As the sun rose on June 24th the Muslims stirred themselves for more battle. The Arians were waiting. Another bloody day’s battle ensued. Stalemate was the norm all along the line. Neither side could get an advantage as the day wore on.
As darkness came the Muslims thought they had victory, but it was to elude them. The Vandal Prince Lammas was fighting on the right flank when he saw the Muslims begin to retreat. Charging his men forward he wanted to exploit the opportunity. It was however a trap, the Muslims had only feigned retreat and now whirled about and counterattacked the disordered Christians. The Vandals were slaughtered before they could extract themselves from the trap. Prince Lammas did his best to get his men out. When he was attempting to lift a fallen comrade onto his horse a Muslim Warrior struck him from behind. The Scimitar slicing through his steel helm. His skull split open and he fell dead. Darkness ended the slaughter as both sides parted. Another bloody day 15,000 Muslim casualties to 17,000 Arian casualties.
King Octa wanted to retreat into Carthage and the safety of its large walls. But the Army was now mostly Crusaders and their zeal wouldn’t let them fall back. Especially when Turpin inspired them with Heroic words of how God would see them through and provide victory.
As the day dawned the exhausted armies met again in combat. The Arians were simply to exhausted and to few remained. By mid morning the Christian armies were near breaking. Lord Turpin rallied his most zealous crusaders around him and they charged “FOR CHRISTENDOM AND THE CROSS!!!”
The Muslim lines wavered briefly but then they rallied. Lord Turpin was swept off his horse when a lance pierced his throat. Blood exploding down his body and soaking the ground. The Christian armies seeing him fall panicked and fled. The exhausted Muslims pursued as best they could. Few of the wounded were able to get back into Carthage from this day’s battle. By days end in Carthage less than 2,000 able bodied men were left. Although some wounded would recover in the months to come.
Emir seluji thanked Allah for the victory, but he was unable to press a siege of Carthage because his army was almost completely Cavalry and he had also suffered massive casualties. So a stalemate exists. The Muslims own Tunisia but the Vandals maintain control of Carthage.
In 529AD Lord Caewlin passed away.
THE ARIAN CHURCH
Patriach Taborus, defender of the true Christ
Diplomacy: none
Arius Calls a crusade to liberate Jerusalem and kill muslims. Little did he know the Muslims were coming for him..
SEE: THE JIHAD IN NORTH AFRICA
WESTERN EUROPE
Mercenaries:
18i, 12c, 7s, 6w, 5t
THE KINGDOM OF REGET
King Cynfarch Oer
Diplomacy: none
Reget continued its conversion of Holland to Celtic Christianity.
Also there was the war with Albion. SEE: THE INVASION OF ALBION
THE KINGDOM OF POWYS
Diplomacy: none
Powys through its entire nations effort into the war with Albion SEE: THE INVASION OF ALBION
Sadly Perddel, King of Powys died in 529AD. He atleast lived to see
the Celtic Alliances triumph over Albion. His son Pwyll became King without
any challenge.
THE KINGDOM OF DUMNONIA
Diplomacy: none
King Gwydre remained in Glevum and actively ruled his nation. His lovely wife had a daughter in 528AD.
Meanwhile his younger brother Magunnus took the Dumnonian army north.
SEE: THE INVASION OF ALBION
THE KINGDOM OF ALBION
King Dempsey
Diplomacy: none
THE INVASION OF ALBION
King Brude was glaring and cursing under his breath as he read the
most recent letter to arrive from the Celtic Alliance. His aids were looking
at each other wondering what the most recent news was. They had all known
that Brude and King Gwydre, writing for the Celtic Alliance, had exchanged
some heated messages in recent months.
Standing Brude said “Its war..” Shaking away the unhappy look Brude started to bark out orders....if the southern nations were coming they needed to prepare....
By the fall of 526AD the Armies of the Celtic Alliance had all gathered in Lothian. Cynfarch Oer, King of Reget welcomed his allies into Lothian as they prepared to go into winter quarters. The weather was getting worse every day, the invasion o Albion would have to wait till spring.
Cynfarch through a feast for his allies. In attendance were Prince Arthwys of Powys with him was the Aengle Jarl of Anglia, Powys’s ally. Dumnonia had sent Prince Magunnus, recently returned from Galacia. Lastly was his Holiness Aedan, Patriarch of the Celtic Church.
As the feast began to get under way Patriarch Aedan addressed the assembled hall, filled with the Celtic nobility and warlords.
"For many years the princes of Albion have
Persecuted God's people. Like the martyrs of old,
Columcille, our honorable patriarch, was seized and
betrayed by heathens in a false trial, condemned to
suffer for imprisonment for over ten years for his
Refusal to bow to Albion's pagan practices. Like
Moses of old, he never was able to tread upon the
promised land of his Christian people, Iona,
Languishing as it does under a harsh Pictish boot. In
the meantime, that venomous snake Aldair has led the
people of Albion further and further from Christian
beliefs. It is not that we condemn friendship with
the spirits God has populated the earth with, but the
heretics of Albion worship them as God Himself!
Surely the heavens quake at this, and the neutral
angels so worshipped blush! How many souls must be
led from true teaching, how many more martyrs must be
made by the Beast of Albion and his piping Anti-Christ
Aldair before we act as Christians? Christian men,
God and His saints cries out for justice. The soul of
holy Columcille cries for justice. Raise your hands
in this holy cause, before all is lost!"
With everyone in the hall focused on Aedan the assassin, disguised as a servant, approached the high table. The assassin sprang at Magunnus of Dumnonia. Fortunately for Magunnus one his guards reacted quickly enough and speared the assassin before he could knife the Prince. It didn’t take long to get the wounded assassin to come clean, torture works wonders. The assassin was a Pict.
As the armies of the Celtic Alliance gathered in Lothian interesting events were transpiring to the west. In the Irish Sea a large Celtic Alliance fleet had gathered. Over 100 war galleys, most heavy and even 15 with elite crews, moved out into the Irish Sea. The met up with a small Pictish fleet of 20 some vessels. In a short and bloody battle the Pictish navy was overwhelmed and sunk. Lord Fergus went down with his Flagship.
With the sea lanes open a large Powysian navy sailed for the Isle of Man....
Cian, heir of Albion had recently arrived on Man to oversee the defenses of Iona. He was only there a few months when news arrived of the naval defeat and warning that scouts had seen a Powysian fleet approaching.
It was at this time that riots sprang up all across the city, as Prince Cian directed the city garrison in attempting to suppress the rebellion a man disguised as a Druidic Christian priest plunged a dagger between his shoulder blades. Cian staggered forward turning to look back at his attacker as blood began to gurgle in his throat. The last thing the young Prince saw before death claimed him was the assassin priest yelling “For GOD and COLUMCILLE!!” as the Pictish guards cut him down.
With the Pictish garrison leaderless and in disarray the rebellion grew
and for days the city of Iona was in chaos as bitter house to house fighting
developed. As the Powysian army, 4,500 strong, landed the rebels in Iona
were able to open the southern gate into the city. The powysian army, lead
by prince Pwyll and accompanied by Bishop Gwaer, stormed into the city.
The Powysian reinforcements with several elite units, turned the tide and
after some fierce fighting killed the remaining Pictish garrison.
As the last of the Picts were killed, Bishop Gwaer knelt at the steps of
the Church of Iona and kissed the ground. He then rose and lead the Powysian
troops in praising God for the great Victory.
As the spring thaw set in the Celtic armies marched north into Albion.
King Brude began to realize that perhaps all was lost and it was time for his people flee and seek their destiny elsewhere. He ordered his people to began gathering up what they could and prepare for a migration. Sadly the Celtic Alliance invaders had moved to deep into Albion for them to migrate safely..but if the army could hold and buy some time the folk in the highlands could get out.
On a lovely day in early June 527AD the armies met just south of Scone. Over 51,000 British warriors stared across the field at the 28,000 Pictish warriors.
Both sides looked on as a Woman holding the hand of a small child moved out from the ranks of the Pictish army and started to walk toward the British lines. “Whats this?” Barked Prince Magunnus, the Dumnonian, who was in over all command of the alliance forces. Unbelieving King Cynfarch Oer, of Reget, said in almost a whisper “its my sister Letis ....and I assume my nephew Lian” without thinking he step out of the ranks and started walking toward her. He met her at mid field and hugged her hard. Then smiled sadly down at his nephew who just stared in awe up at the big man in armor, then looked all around very impressed by all the warriors crowding the field.
Letis screams so that her kinsmen in the British ranks can hear her “You men should be ashamed at yourself !! how can you war against your neighbors this way? Haven’t you and Albion had good relations? Let not those evil men from Powys force you to make war on me and my son” In tears she turns to walk back to the Pictish lines. “Letis..” says Cynfarch softly “ I am truly sorry. You know I have no hate for Albion. But if we Cymri are to survive as a people in these troubled times then this alliance must hold. I am sorry.” With that he turns and walks back to his place with his men in the British lines.
Brude watches the British forces advance. The banner of Powys on the left, Dumnonia in the center, and Reget on the right. Brude ordered Penwyr to tale command of the cavalry with orders to plug any breakthroughs. Brude himself moved his banner to the center of the line and took his place in the front.
The two lines met with a crash and the killing began. Men screamed and blood was spilled. The initial push was held, but the British numbers began to tell as the Brits began to extend their line and overlap the Pictish flanks.
Brude seeing the danger tries to slowly retreat while holding his line in good order.
Prince Magunnus, of Dumnonia reinforces the center-right part of the line. Personally leading the Dumnonian Heavy Cavalry into a charge near the junction of the Dumnonian/Reget forces. The Dumnonians have the best Cavalry in all of Britannia, some say in all of Europe west of the Eastern Roman Empire. Magunnus’s charge shatters the right flank of the Pictish army and as Brude tries to reform his line the left wing also gives way. With ordered lines broken all hell breaks loose and the days real killing begins.
Prince Penwyr sees both Pictish flanks crumble and orders his cavalry forward to reinforce. The Picts on the flanks fall back and try to form an ordered line. In the center Brude orders his men to stand where they are “we must give our wives and children time to evacuate..STAND DAMN YOU!!!! STAND AND FIGHT!!! “, and the picts near him do stand fighting desperately as the waves of British warriors pour past their flanks.
Penwyr is able to finally form something resembling a fighting line but they are still being forced back. As his line is forced back he watches in horror as King Brude and several thousand warriors are cut off and surrounded. Penwyr can hold no more and is forced to flee with what survivors he can. Precious few make their escape.
In the center Brude watches as Penwyr and the rest of the Picts had been forced to flee. He has less than 2,000 warriors left. The British have pulled back and given his battered and bloody survivors some rest.
“SURRENDER AND YOUR LIVES WILL BE SPARED!” Barks Idno ap Meirchon, younger brother of the King of Reget. “Never” whispers Brude as he raises his bloody sword and walks out of the Pictish shield ring toward Idno. Idno is taken a back “I have no wish to see you die. I love my sister and would not want her to be a widow...please Lord King surrender” pleads Idno. Brude charges “FOR ALBION!!!” roars Brude as he charges Idno. The Reget Prince, who is half the age of Pictish King, parries the blow and counter swings, his sword crashing into Brudes shield as the King charges past. Whirling about Brude again strikes. The two exchanging blows back and forth for several minutes as both armies’ watch spellbound. Idno wounds the aging Pictish king, giving him several small wounds. As exhaustion sets in King Brude slips on the blood soaked ground and falls back. Idno seeing the King slip charges in for the killing blow. As Idno’s massive two handed blow comes from over head Brude, kneeling, lunges forward and drove his sword into the young Princes unprotected chest. Brude at the same time tries to dodge out of Idno’s sword stroke. But exhausted and slowed by age Idno’s sword crashes into the kings side even as his life is taken from him. Eyes glazing over, blood coughing up into his mouth Idno falls face down. Brude struggles to his feet as the Pictish warriors cheer their kings victory. Holding his side as blood flows from his ruptured mail, seeping through his fingers. Brude walks back into the Pictish shield Ring.
Standing below his banner King Brude begins to shake. His knees buckle and the aged king, wounded more than he let on, sinks to his knees.
Magunnus seeing Brude fall orders the Brits to charge. “Fight to the end...we must hold...” whispers Brude. As his lifeblood flows from him his Pictish warriors are slaughtered. Brude himself was dead long before his last countryman died.
The Brits occupy Albion and find the Holy City of Scone, and Capital of Albion, evacuated except for a small group of warriors guarding the Holy Site of the Druidic Church. No doubt the Kings of the British nations would have wanted the patriarch taken alive. Unfortunately the British warriors, rumored to be from Powys, who entered the city got there first and martyred the patriarch and all those with him.
In the highlands the Pictish people continued to migrate as fast as possible. Pictish leaders had went ahead sailing north far out past the Faeroes returning claiming they had found a land out in the great unknown seas where they could migrate to. The remaining leaders of the Druidic Church claimed it was Gods will for them to seek new lands.
So the Pictish peoples sailed into the unkown....
THE DRUIDIC CHRISTIAN CHURCH
Patriarch Aldair
Diplomacy: none
After the order to bug out came. The church leaders took everything they could in the short time they had. They even managed to take the stone of destiny.
Leaving beloved Albion was hard o the priests who so recently had begun
to worship as they saw fit. Perhaps in the new lands they find God will
give them peace.
CELTIC CHURCH
Patriarch Columcille
Diplomacy: none
The Celtic Churches activities were, ofcourse, aimed at helping the faithful make war on the Heretics in Albion. Gold was provided.
The patriarch himself lead troops into battle
The church tried to inflame a Holy war, but just couldn’t seem to get the faithful excited enough.
Strangely, large amounts of Gold were seen being transferred over sees
to the Catholic Merovingians. No one knew, or would say, why however.
THE KINGDOM OF ARMORICA
King Riwal
Diplomacy: none
Armorica, the peaceful, as it has come to be known. A land free from the strife and warfare surrounding her neighbors. For the lucky citizens of this land that peace continued again. Sadly good King Riwal died in 530AD. The Celtic priests who had come to Armorica to establish abbeys held services and then Blessed his son Geriant as King.
With God’s grace everyone hoped he would prove to be as wise a ruler
as his father.
THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
Pope Hormisdas
Diplomacy: none
The Pope turned all his attention to Croat invaders. He rallied all the Catholic faithful to be ready to fight a Holy war if need be against these pagan Invaders. He was greatly relieved when the Croats converted to Catholicism. The Croat allies revolted and formed their own Kingdom, preferring to keep to their old ways. Then when the Croat King was assassinated they fell into further Civil war.
Hormisdas took this sign from God and ran with it. Priests were sent into Verona and the new converts were taught the deep heritage of Catholicism and the people’s faith increased.
Hormisdas could only smile. God does indeed work in strange and wonderful
ways he thought.
THE KINGDOM OF THE GOTHS
King Alaric
Diplomacy: None
Alaric, King of the Goths, had several matters to deal with. In the north Basque separatist were on the move. In the south he wanted to strengthen his position and sever the ferry point to Africa. Also there was the matter of this Crusade called by Patriarch Taborus of the Arian Church. The Holy City of Jerusalem had fallen to these wild desert Nomads who followed this strange new religion. Little did he know the battle would be fought near the Holy City of the Arian Church, in Carthage, and not in far off Jerusalem. SEE: THE NORTH AFRICAN JIHAD
The Queen had a son in 527AD, and a daughter 2 years later.
Lord Theodoric, accompanied be Prince Harde, moved north into Catalonia and quickly suppressed any Basque activity. Shortly Visgoth settlers moved in. The Catholic minority forced to accept the protection and religion of the Arian nobility.
The Duke’s of Valencia and NewCastille marched their forces south and over ran Gebal-Al taruk. But before they could sever the ferry points Lord Turpin marched into view at the head of 26,000 warriors. The Duke’s feared a rebellion “isn’t he supposed to be in the north on a diplomatic mission?” Turpin came forth to parley. “Our great King raised the call of Crusade at the patriarch’s behalf, but he did not provide any way or give any orders for the warriors of God. So God sent me a dream and told me to lead these devout men to fight for the cross. I go to Carthage. After I cross over into Africa you may destroy the ferry points behind me.” Being devout Arians the Duke’s agreed and sent the crusaders off with prayers and rejoicing.
Lord Turpin marched into Africa and war...
THE KINGDOM OF THE MEROVINGIANS
King Clovis
Diplomacy: none
King Pepin was expecting a Papal bull calling for a crusade, but it had yet to arrive. “Perhaps it will arrive on the march,” he thought. So he gathered his army and marched south into the Catholic Kingdom of Bavaria. There he met up with Prince Octar of Bavaria, and Warlord Amyon of Burgundy. Still no call for a Crusade from the Pope.
Then finally a messenger arrived. “Amazing” said Pepin as he read the
message to his allies. “Civil war amongst the Croats, and they have converted
to the true faith.We shall wait here. No sense getting involved, let them
kill eachother.Who knows maybe they will be good catholic” Both his
allies laughed.
Prince Wilhelm stayed behind and oversaw the pressing affairs of state. His lovely wife gave birth to 3 children, 2 sons and a daughter.
Bishop Alwhin preached the Gospel in Westphalia.
THE KINGDOM OF BURGUNDY
King Raimon
Diplomacy: Switzerland (c)
King Varocher sent off one his warlords to fight for the catholic cause in Bavaria. While he saw to the mundane tasks of ruling his nation.
Prince Isore was sent to Switzerland where he talked with the Alamanii
chieftains. Unfortunately he became sick and died before the talks were
finalized.
THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK
King CaenWulf
Diplomacy: none
Things were fairly quiet in Denmark. Prince Magnulf over saw the affairs of state while his father spent time in the field with his warriors.
Queen Freya passed away in 530AD. On a happier note Magnulf married a local Danish women and they had a daughter in 528 and a son 2 years later.
Lord Olaf the Bear, died while traveling in the Dane lands in the east.
THE KINGDOM OF ROMAN ITALY
King Ulprus, restorer of the Roman light.
Diplomacy: Tuscany (f)
Italy was a land preparing for war. Caught of guard by the initial Croat invasion. The new Dynasty, a Roman one, prepared for war. The defense centered on Rome as men and equipment were raised and built.
The Dux of Tuscany was named Imperial heir.
As King Ulpris prepared the Capitals defense he sent Legate Cronan, along with the feudal lords of Naples and Spoleto, to make war against the Vandals. Traveling by sea the Idea was to take Sicily and punish the Vandals for their helping the Croats take Ravenna.
Splashing ashore on the northern coast of Sicily, Legate Cronan attempted
to get his men ashore and into a battle formation. Already the Vandal army
was reacting to the invasion. Prince Nuall brought up his Vandal
army and launched a counter attack hoping to push the invaders into the
sea. The Vandals had a slight superiority in troops and used them to good
use by charging into the disordered Roman troops. The beaches turned red
as the Romans were ground up and pushed into the waves. In one short hour
the invasion was over. The Romans left thousands dead in the waves.
The roman fleet sailed back to Italy. The Vandals cheered themselves Horse
as they watched the Romans flee.
THE CROAT TRIBAL FEDERATION
Chief Ruvavak
Diplomacy: none
After crushing the Ostrogothic state, Ruvavak received letters from the Pope and talks began. In the meantime talks were underway with the Orthodox Church as well. A large shipment of Gold, along with 9,000 or so workers arrived from the Orthodox Church. The workers were told they were sent to take over the Catholic Churches after the Croat conquest of Italy. They were quit suprised when the Croats enslaved them and kept the Gold without converting to the Orthodox faith.
The Croats did convert to Catholicism however, and that when Ruvavak’s problems began.
Hermann Chieftain of the Lombards promptly revolted, as did Chieftain Peotr of the Slovenes. Hermann became King and Peotr swore allegiance and thus was born the Kingdom of the Lombards.
Ruvavak was outraged. He demanded to see the Catholic Church officials in Ravenna and went to the cathedral there demanding answers.
He was met there by Catholic priests and went inside were the priests demanded he take mass first as a sign of his new faith. Wanting the churches help to crush the Lombard revolt he agreed. Drinking the wine he staggered back and began to gag “poison....er...” he whispered to low for his guards to hear. He tried to leave, helped by his guards but was dead before he got 5 paces.
His guards unsure what happened but in shock looked to the priest for answers. “God has struck him down as unworthy” The superstitious Croat guards backed out of the Church and fled to spread the word.
As word of the Kings death spread Prince Ivankov crowned himself King in Ravenna. In the countryside however the army flocked to general Ptreskov’s banner. Ivankov closed the city gates as Ptreskov laid siege to Ravenna. He didn’t have a navy however so it was not possible for him to starve Ivankov out.
For 4 years the siege continued. But in 529AD Ivankov died and the city
surrendered to Ptreskov, now the unchallenged King of the Croats.
KINGDOM OF NORWAY
King Knut
Diplomacy: norway (f)
King Knut married and his wife gave birth to sons in 528 and 529AD.
The kings younger brother, Nors, was made Heir and married in 528AD
The other event of Interest was Prince Rolf whose army, carried by the
ships of Lord Nels raided the slavic lands in the Baltic area. It was noted
that they carefully avoided raiding any lands held by the Danes or Svear
THE KINGDOM OF THE SVEAR
King Olaf
Diplomacy: smolensk (f) Rzhev (nt) Kirivitch (t)
King Olaf spent his time on a diplomatic tour in the Slavic lands. His son Alusfr accompanied him and was wed to Ludmilla, the daughter of the ruler of Kirivitch.
The kingdom had been waiting for word of a Holy war from Eastern Orthodox
Patriarch but it never came.
THE KINGDOM OF BAVARIA
King Horsa
Diplomacy: Bohemia (nt) Tyrol (ea)
Bavaria did what it could to prepare for any Croat incursion and the nation breathed easier when the Merovingian and Burgundian allies arrived. Fortunately the Croats never came and the nation had a time of peace to stabilize and see to some needed diplomacy.