1050 AD - Medieval RP [IC]

by **Maltropia** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 7:00 am

It is 1050 Anno Domini. The age of the Vikings draws to a close in northern Europe, as the conquerors begin to stay in the lands they have burned and to wage war for territory rather than gold. The Byzantine Empire has just entered a period of revival after a long decline, but the arrival of new peoples in the Mediterranean - Muslims, Normans, and even the Rus - now erodes at their power. In Iberia, the Reconquista and war with the Moors is in full swing, the Christians nearing the crucial city of Toledo, and the concept of Crusade begins to implant itself in the minds of the Europeans.

With this era of great changes just beginning, the course of history only needs a gentle push to change drastically...

OOC & Sign-ups Thread

by **Jerusalem and Damascus** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 11:50 am

Rí ruirech Aed Ua Conchobhair, or "Cyning of Cyning Aed" in the language of the Sasanach sat in his chair, while the members of the lesser septs bustled about, their elders keeping their eyes focused intently on the King of Kings. The beer poured freely into the cups of the people gathered round to partake in the feast Aed had given them, unaware that what he was about to say would change everything. The roar of conversation seemed to grow ever louder with each passing minute, making Aed feel the need more and more to finally speak. Suddenly, he pulled back in his chair, and the whole room went silent, eyes fixed upon him. Though his clansmen were known for their love of merriment, they knew when to defer to their betters.

He stared down at all of them, his face like stone, then called out.

"Friends, brothers, vassals. We are a prosperous and noble clan. Though we are fewer in number than the other cuige, we have remained free of the taint of the lochlannach who savage our neighbour's lands and live upon them as if it were their birthright. We are pure, and rulers of our own destiny."

The crowd cheered, and Aed held up his hand.

"But listen close to me, brothers, for I have seen a storm brewing over Eire. The pagan lochlannach grow ever bolder in their foray into Christian lands, and their depravities know no bounds. Truly, they will not be content until they despoiled every nun, burnt every monastery, and ransacked every Church. But there is hope amongst their people for salvation. Those who have remained on Eire have met with preachers, who have brought them the glorious Word of our Lord, and they have received it well. Yet the tide of their pagan brethren never seems to recede, and more come for our people to be taken as slaves. But there is hope for us. We have taken the design of their ships and made them for our purpose, to defend our shores from their raids. But we have greater potential. Across the waters to the East of us is the land of Alba, whose people dress as us, speak as us, and fight as us. Though they were founded by the Ulaid, they will come to see us, the Connachta, as brothers in our fight against the pagan lochlannach."

He looked over the room, not a single peep coming from the audience.

"But this is still not enough. For too long, Connachta has minded its own lands, its own people, denying the nature of ourselves as Men. We must be like our ancestors, the MacMil, who came over to this land and conquered Eire for themselves. We must take the five of Eire, and make them one, a land under an Ard Rí. For this purpose, brothers, I have built us an army of hired men. This is not enough for us, however. An army of foreigners will only get a clan so far before it dooms them, and only native men upon the field might keep order. I need from you, brothers, your levies. Your kinsmen, so that they might take up arms and bring Connachta to glory. Once, we were the greatest enemy of Cu Chulainn, and we must reach for that glory again. You will not be forced, but remember that each man you spare brings a mark of shame upon you and your clan that can never be erased. So, brothers, take up arms! Prepare to bring glory to Connachta!"

The room erupted into cheers as Aed elevated his glass into the air, mead spilling from it. It went better than he had expected.

~~~~

Two envoys had been sent out, one to the land of Alba, and the other to a kingdom of the Bhreatain, or the Cymry as they called themselves. Regardless of who they were, the message was the same: Join with Connacht in its repulsion of the lochlannach, or "Norsemen" as they were called, and form a strong alliance against the Sasanach. Gifts of iron were promised, and much trade. The wording, hwoever, was different. With the Albain, it was a plea to brothers of the same bed, a people who's only difference was the island they were settled on. To them, honeyed words of kinship were the key. With the Bhreatain, they received the message in a more blunt form, an offer between peoples who were both surrounded by enemies who spoke strange tongues and would see them gobbled up. The Kingdom of Kernow was mentioned, only 50 years ago annexed by the Sasanach.

by **Phoenigetuzstha** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 12:30 pm

The Emirate of Sicily, a bastion of Muslim dominance in the Mediterranean for over 80 years. We have transformed this island, introduced new taxing systems, fertilised the fields in the traditional eastern way, improved the drainage of the island, introduced new foods to them, pistachio's, lemons, sugar and increased the health of the people that live here. We have done everything we can to accommodate for the Christians, yet still I fear...
We came here on someone's request, that someone being Euphemius, a Byzantine admiral. We rescued them people from a tyrant, why would one of their own admirals want to revolt against them if they were such benevolent rulers? It doesn't make sense, yet the Christians seem eager to throw us off, but we won't go down without a fight.

The Christians north of us seem all too eager to recruit these 'Normans' predominantly Christian, but some still cling to the ways before Muhammad (pbuh) changed their heathen ways. Anyway, they use them to campaign against their neighbours, and I fear that the Italian states north of us will recruit them to push us out of Sicily, but once again we will not go down without a fight. Perhaps we are not as strong as we used to be, Hasan al-Samsam's rule was disastrous to be kind, and a lot of manpower had to be wasted to bring the island under control.

We can count on help from other Muslim neighbours, namely the Fatimids, but maybe they'll be too occupied in keeping their holdings to help us, I don't know. As it stands, here is the army:

by **Demphor** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 2:43 pm

The city of Frankfurt was bustling with work and people. The blacksmith was producing pikes for the armies soldiers, the small farms were making much needed wheat for the general public and across the nation, a tide of uncertainty was looming as new nations pounced up from the soil and threatening the existance of the Holy Roman Empire.

In the Palace, Henry III was looking at the world map.

"Well, Sire, it seems at this point no conflicts have broken out yet, but at this point, a war with any country is not wise. Our troops are focused in the western cities, we expect alot of conflict to arouse there. If anything, a war with the French is possible. In the southeast, the Hungarians are very very near. We don't expect any challenges from the north. We also-"
"What is our military strength." asked Henry.
"Right now we've got 150,000 spears focused mainly to the west and southwest, be we can get more and dispatch them to anywhere in the Kingdom in days."
"What about the celtic nations?" asked Henry.
"They can be a threat."
"Hmmm, south?"
"We don't know."
"Well, we should send out riders west to France" said Henry. "If they are good allies, then we can reward them." Henry said.
"Yes my liege."

A Rider left the gates of the fair city bearing a box of gold and a letter from the King. An alliance with the French would be profitable for the Empire.

by **Neros** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 3:23 pm

(Reserve Post. Needed post for the IC. Will edit to contain some things.)

by **The Blazing Aura** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 3:56 pm

King Gruffydd ap Llywelyn sat on his throne, he was waiting, the right time to strike was almost at hand and his men were ready, the Saethwyr and the Helwyr were preparing there bows, making sure their quivers were full and their aim true. The Mathrafal horsemen were ready with fine steeds, and the Teulu, the bodyguards and mounted horse Skirmishers were well equipped waiting to charge into battle. The Rhyfelwyr and the spearmen of Meirionnydd were ready to march to war, Ballista's, Catapults and Battering rams stood ready in the siege works, whilst the Militiamen and Skirmishers which were made up of tribesman and partially trained men, all able to hold their weapons. Revenge had been coming for over three years now, and Gruffydd was ready to bring it down upon Deheubarth and their supposed king Gruffydd ap Rhydderch. There was only room for one king of Wales, and Gruffydd was certain it would be him. rising he called to his servants to prepare his armour, he would go and make a speech to his troops before they set out, for victory.

by **Osthia** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 3:57 pm

Rome, Spring of 1050 AD

Pope Leo IX, Supreme Pontiff, Vicar of Christ on Earth, and the Bishop of Rome, stared at a map of Christendom and Asia Minor. The Sicilian Emirate was an ugly blot on the map of a Christian Europe, and it was on the door of the Papal States, the house of the Catholic Church. The Papacy, while it did possess an army, was not strong enough to deal with the Sicilians by itself. It needed assistance in order to defend the lands of Christianity; and Leo knew where he could find it. His homeland, the Holy Roman Empire, was to the north of the Papal States and was strong enough to help the Papal Armies. But the Holy Roman Emperor, Pope Leo knew, would most likely not fight the Sicilians without some kind of incentive. The Pope could not give this man land-such a move would upset the other Christian kings who could accuse him of favoritism-and the Emperor was already one of the most powerful men in Europe. It seemed that he would have to go on hope, and if the Holy Roman Emperor couldn't help the Papacy, then maybe someone else could...

To His Majesty, the Holy Roman Emperor Henry III,

As the man responsible for the defense of the Church and the lands of Christendom, there is a threat at our very doorstep: the Sicilian Emirate. Our Papal armies are not capable of defending the Church and we call on you to fulfill your oath to the Catholic Church. Failure to follow this oath could result in weakened relations with the Papacy, however, if there is a reasonable excuse for the lack of fulfillment of your oath, then there shall be no consequence. However, we urge you to ensure that no such excuse can exist. Deus vult, and may God help us all.
Signed,

His Holiness,
Pope Leo IX

by **Machtergreifung** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 3:59 pm

The five dozen riders thundered though the gates, under the ash grey sky. The scene was suitably dramatic, Stirling Castle, perched atop the great Castle Rock, with the stone and wood of a ramshackle but sturdy wall and keep. It was not often that King Malcolm, third of his name, summoned the lords.

The two dozen lords gathered in the great hall represented the majority of the Scottish nobility. Most of them were lords in the south of the country. The heads of the great Scottish clans kept to their own lands, showing only partial deference to the throne. The clansmen would do as the King ask. Asked, but not ordered.

Most matters were settled quickly, until the King announced his intentions.

"The past is the past. What bitterness that exists between all of us here must be put aside. If you wish your children, and their children to prosper, the realm must be united. To do that, we must unite the realm by force."

The King turned to a clergyman at his side, the flames from the hearth dancing in the reflection of his crown. The priest handed the King a parchment.

"As it stands, the throne itself can muster about five thousand men. The realm itself should be able to double that in levies. The Kingdom of Alba is fractured, and it is my intention to reunite it."

There was a muttering of consent from the assembled lords.

"My brother Domnall will lead five thousand men to march west, and drive the Norsemen out of the Isles."

The King turned to what appeared to be a younger vision of the King.

"Brother, your host will be half of my own host, and half made up of the realm's levies. You have my warrent and approval to offer the clans land and titles in return for assisting you to drive the Norsemen from the Isles." Domnall nodded, and departed. The two had arranged the entire affair beforehand; this was a display for the assmbled nobles.

"I will lead the main host south. We march for the upstart King of Strathclyde - he will bend the knee to the true king of Scotland, or we shall crush him. From there, onwards, to Galloway and Carrick."

A smile played across the tall man's face. "And then, my lords, we march on Northumbria! All the loot and plunder and land ripe for the taking!"

That was greeted with much more enthusasim. Malcolm Dunkeld's plan was sound, and it had started well. Unite the nobles to provide the throne with the troops needed to subdue the smaller factions, and keep them loyal with the promise of land and plunder.

Two months later, the King's host had departed for Strathclyde. Domnall had been gone for a month already.

by **Tsaroski** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 4:15 pm

Caliph Al-Mustansir sat on the throne of the Fatamid Caliphate, it was a huge wieght indeed, with the Christian kingdoms becoming more and more hostile towards the Muslims, and the spanish reconqista of the Moors to the west was also a problem, then there was always the various Muslim nations, and the ever prevelent and feared Seljuq Turk Empire, and the remnent of the Abbasid Caliphate. Byzantium remained a problem as well. But that seemed all too far away, somebody elses problem. The real issue was within the Caliphate itself, the Sunnis. The Sunni islamic followers, for the most part, had refused to convert to what they claimed as a hereticial cult, the Shia' Islam. The Arabs had proved time and time again, that they would refuse to convert to a "cult". It was reccomended that sending a army to subjegate the Arabs and speed the process up.

After much debate, it was decided, a army would be moved to Hedjaz to speed up conversion, and maintain order. As for diplomacy, Al-Mustansir sent a letter to the Emir of Sicily, guranteeing it's independence and pledgeing itself to defend Sicily, the Bastion of Islam in Italy, from the Christian infidels.

by **Phoenigetuzstha** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 4:38 pm

Al-Madinah (Palermo), Emirate of Sicily

"Emir Ayyub ibn Tamim, a letter has arrived from the Fatimid Caliphate, their leader, Al-Mustansir Fatamid would like to assure you of your independence and wishes to assist you on any campaigns against the infidels of the north." The servant stepped back, bowing and holding out the parchment scroll for Emir Ayyub to look at. Picking the letter up, he scanned it, confirming what the servant had said.
"Hmm... Hehe" Ayyub chuckled to himself. This couldn't have come at a better time. The Papal States to the north had, from what Muslims in mainland Italy had been saying, been increasing pressure on the Emirate of Sicily. His standing army was no more than 23,000, however he did have access to mercenaries and now the Fatimid troops.

"Praise Allah! Please, get me my quiver and some parchment." He said, leaning back in his ornately decorated chair. Within a few seconds the servant returned with the writing equipment, and Ayyub got under way his reply:

Dear Caliph Al-Mustansir of the mighty Fatimid Caliphate,

We thank you most greatly for your offer of assistance, it couldn't have come at a better time. It is truly amazing how Allah works in peoples hearts and minds such as yours, may he eternally bless you. We have had word that the Papal States are causing hatred amongst the Italian peoples for those who follow the one true faith, namely us in Sicily. We kindly ask you if you could supply us troops. Of course this wouldn't come for nothing, we would be willing to pay for this assistance, and of course, we would Allah in is infinite wisdom to bless you and your people in all their endeavours.

Alhamdulillah
From Emir Ayyub ibn Tamim and your Shi'a Brothers in the Emirate of Sicily

"Send this to Caliph Al-Mustansir right away please!" He said, firmly and loudly. The servant bowing and running away with the letter...

by **Machtergreifung** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 4:50 pm

The envoy from Connacht stumbled upon Malcolm's host just outside of a small town called Glasgow. The timing of the man had been excellent. Malcolm presided over a great victory; the King of Strathclyde, his brother and his two sons lay dead at a crossing in the river Clyde two miles downstream. The King's host had scarce lost a thousand men, and gained the entire fertile valley of the Clyde. Using Glasgow as a base, the King called the minor lords sworn to the King of Stathclyde to do him homage, as their rightfull leige. The Kingdom of Strathclyde was no more, its crown in the gutter. Under Dunkeld rule, there would be one King in Scotland.

The envoy was kept waiting while a brace of lords bent the knee to their new King. The words of their oaths echoed throughout the church that Malcolm had taken for his residence. At length, the Connachtman was welcomed warmly by the King, and the pair conversed at length in Gaelic.

The King considered the offer.

"Aye, good man. The lochlannach need be thrown out. My brother Domnall marches into the Isles to subdue the Norsemen, but he has no ships, can cannot carry the fight deep into the Isles lest the lochlannach longships end his days. Tell your lord of this agreement I offer."

"My brother Domnall's men will serve your lord to drive the Norsemen into the sea, should you find them boats to bring them to Connacht. When there are no Norse left alive in Connacht, the Connachtmen and my brother's men shall descend on the Isles together, and drive the lochlannach to the frozen wastes from whence they spawned."

by **The Blazing Aura** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 5:06 pm

A day of Victory. A united Wales was now on the horizon, the region of Morgannwg and Gwent was all that stood in Gruffydd's way, the army of Deheubarth lay dead or had run after their king was slain in combat. casualties had been moderate on Gruffydd's side with many of the Militiamen and Skirmishers losing their lives during the initial charge, though they did their job, holding the infantry in place whilst heavier units charged and the cavalry flanked the main force, the Teulu once again showing their worth. Gruffydd sent a vanguard of men south west deeper into Deheubarth to capture Dinefwr Castle, before he with the majority of the force would ride into Carmarthen to be officially crowned king of Deheubarth, fter that a campaign would be made against Morgannwg, which along with Gwent would fall bringing Wales under one King. the main question that plagued Grufydd's mind was what next?.

by **Tsaroski** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 5:34 pm

Phoenigetuzstha wrote:
(Image)
Al-Madinah (Palermo), Emirate of Sicily

"Emir Ayyub ibn Tamim, a letter has arrived from the Fatimid Caliphate, their leader, Al-Mustansir Fatamid would like to assure you of your independence and wishes to assist you on any campaigns against the infidels of the north." The servant stepped back, bowing and holding out the parchment scroll for Emir Ayyub to look at. Picking the letter up, he scanned it, confirming what the servant had said.
"Hmm... Hehe" Ayyub chuckled to himself. This couldn't have come at a better time. The Papal States to the north had, from what Muslims in mainland Italy had been saying, been increasing pressure on the Emirate of Sicily. His standing army was no more than 23,000, however he did have access to mercenaries and now the Fatimid troops.

"Praise Allah! Please, get me my quiver and some parchment." He said, leaning back in his ornately decorated chair. Within a few seconds the servant returned with the writing equipment, and Ayyub got under way his reply:

Dear Caliph Al-Mustansir of the mighty Fatimid Caliphate,

We thank you most greatly for your offer of assistance, it couldn't have come at a better time. It is truly amazing how Allah works in peoples hearts and minds such as yours, may he eternally bless you. We have had word that the Papal States are causing hatred amongst the Italian peoples for those who follow the one true faith, namely us in Sicily. We kindly ask you if you could supply us troops. Of course this wouldn't come for nothing, we would be willing to pay for this assistance, and of course, we would Allah in is infinite wisdom to bless you and your people in all their endeavours.

Alhamdulillah
From Emir Ayyub ibn Tamim and your Shi'a Brothers in the Emirate of Sicily

"Send this to Caliph Al-Mustansir right away please!" He said, firmly and loudly. The servant bowing and running away with the letter...

Cairo, Fatimid Caliphate

A few days later, Al-Mustansir had recived a letter from Emir Ayyub ibn Tamim again, the news he said in the parchment wasn't suprising, Ayyub had reported that the Infidel Papal states had been sturring up trouble in the Italian states, and he wished for Fatimid soldiers for protection, and obviously other means. Al-Mustansir had no fear of the infidel alone, but united, that was a different story all together, but in times of these, Muslim brothers had to stick together, so Al-Mustansir would indeed send soldiers to Ayyub. He asked his servant for reports of the Sicilian army, which was a modest army of 23,000, and 100 ships. Al-Mustansir would send 16,000 soldiers, and 50 ships, almost half of the Sicilian army and half of the numbers of the Sicilian fleet. The army would consist of 12,000 Foot soldiers, 3,000 Arab Cavalrymen, and 1,000 Berber Mercenaries(Spearmen, Lancers, and Skirmishers respectivly). The fleet would consist of 30 War-Dhows and 20 War Galleys.

With parchment and quill and ink at hand, Al-Mustansir wrote back to Ayyub, confirming the soldiers.

Dear Emir Ayyub ibn Tamim,

Your call for soldiers has been answer, we will send 16,000 soldiers and 50 of our finest war galleys and Dhows to assist you with the infidels, should you or they attack. At the bottom includes all information needed about the army and the fleet, they should arrive within 7 days to 10, depending upon the winds. Of course, I humblely ask that you pay us 7,000 Dinars for our army and fleet, I assure you, it is truely only a fraction of what we pay to uphold them! If you require anything else, please send tell me, and I shall do what I can.

Army Information:
Commander: Al-Majid
12,000 Foot soldiers,
3,000 Arab Cavalrymen,
1,000 Berber Mercenaries.

Navy Information:
Admiral: Abdullah Fatamid
30 War-Dhows
20 War Galleys

Praise Allah,
Caliph Al-Mustansir Fatamid

"Come, send this to the Emir in Sicily! Tell him my regards as well!" said Al-Mustansir, rather firmly. The servant bowed and ran off to the dock with the letter.

by **Benutanairan** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 5:48 pm

France was quite a large nation despite burgundy to the south and brittany controlling several portions. Europe however was beginning to look past its petty conflicts and uniting against the muslims in the south and spain. For now spain was to be neutral, however neutrality does not last long in a world of war and political standings according to ones belief. France itself was subject to the islamic threat long ago and still feared them. Preparations couldn't possibly hurt but for now france would begin assessing its realm for future purposes. Meanwhile paris was abuzz with market activity and the king and his nobles would gather soon.

by **Kyska** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 7:27 pm

Oslo, Norway

King Harald Hadrada look over the city from his balcony. Though his name meant "hard ruler,"Harald had grown old by now. His kingdom reached far and his people were happy. Thunder loomed in the overcast clouds. Perhaps Thor is angry, he thought, letting out a small chuckle. His people in the southern part of Norway, including him, had converted to Christianity. It was spreading north as more and more people saw the foolishness of the Norse mythology. To the south there was a powerful empire, while to the east there were Lappish tribes and Sweden. To the west was Angland and Scotland, potential targets that suffer from political strife between the Normans and the Anglo-Saxons and Welsh.

by **Neros** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 1:07 am

Kiev, Kievan Rus':

The Grand Prince Yaroslav the Wise grows weary, fearful that his sons will rip the Kiev he has built between themselves and throw the humble Rus' people into an age of civil strife and damnation. The Russkaya Pravda outlines the Law Code of land inheritance and almost all legal matters within the Eastern Slavic Lands, but no such thing existed for the transfer of power within the Kievan Rus'. He remembered the bloody struggles of his youth against his brothers for the throne. Terrible business and all. No such tragedy will befell the Great Kiev, not anymore.

The Law Code of the Russkaya Pravda has been reviewed and drafted in a new form, keeping most of the original laws in place, but adding much more in terms of Regional Authority, Transfer of Power, and Centralization of the State. The Grand Prince title has become that of Sovereign akin to Emperor and Imperator, and traces its organization of government to that of the Byzantine and Old Roman Empires. It includes the following instances:

-The Sovereign imposes the Will of the State
-The Holy Princes' (Comparable to an Aristocratic Upper House) shall be subservient to the Sovereign or face threat of force against their land. They will impose the Will of the Nobles.
-All Communities within the Kievan Rus' in excess of 5,000 males will send delegation to the Popular Assembly, which will voice the Will of the People.
-The Sovereign as undisputed right to chose his Heir.
-The Military will be sworn to protect the Rus', the Sovereign, and the State.
-All military officials will be bound by the Sovereign. They will be his Sword, Shield, and Voice to all enemies, outside and within.

Among many others. This was approved by a signing of more than 75% of Kievan Princes, and shall be in effect from henceforth.

In an effort to further unite the Great Kiev, Sovereign Yaroslav orders the construction of roads in the method of the Old Romans, using stone and gravel. This method has been documented through the Byzantine, and we shall put it to use in our land. From Kiev, massive roads built for heavy traffic will branch out through-out the Rus', from Novograd to Rostov to Kiev to Poland to the Crimea to the Gulf of Finland. A map:

This will primarily be built with Prisoner Labor, local Serfs, and captured slaves from the dead Empire of Khazars. Roads will begin at all points given and will slowly link up. From this Main Road, lesser roads will branch off to serve minor cities and population centers. From these lesser roads, dirt roads will serve far-off outposts and scattered populations.

Military trials will begin as we will re-organize our vast armies in proper Legions. Horses are to be gathered for mounted divisions. (Numbers will be posted shortly).

by **Jerusalem and Damascus** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 1:33 am

The envoy returned with glorious news from the Albain. The Ri had accepted the offer from the envoy, and only requested that boats be sent to bring his brother to the lands of Connachta. The request was immediately listened to, and the boats were sent to the lands of Alba, resembling those of the Norsemen, but with larger masts and the clan symbol of the Connachta upon the sails so that they might be identified as allies instead of raiders to the native Albain.

Meanwhile, a distant kinsmen, Cormac Ua Conchobair, lead an army of ten thousand men, three thousand of which were mercenaries armoured in heavy chain and with the visored helmets of a lochlan, with heavy swords, one thousand mercenary horsemen, armoured heavily and given lances as on the continent, called Ridire. However, the native warriors were more belligerent. One thousand men, of noble birth, somewhat armoured and brandishing the most honoured weapon of their ancestors, the spear. Behind them, a thousand archers, many of whom had fled from Kernow, or Cornwall, and carried longbows much like the Cymry to the East. Then, with them, two thousand ceitherns, skirmishers armoured only with a shield and a heavy cloak, carrying javelins and a light axe, along with a buckler, to fight with. Finally, two thousand horsemen, not armoured at all, and holding with them only a light sword and many javelins to fight with so that they might strike quickly at the enemy. One day, they would be called Hobelars. Many of the mercenaries were not in fact proper mercenaries, but Christian lochlannach who fought under the premise that doing so would allow them to remain within the lands of Eire. They all marched on the lands of the Ui Niall, and took it quickly for the glory of Connacht. Though the Ui Niall were used to the Ceitherns, and Hobelars, the new heavily armoured troops made short work of any soldier fighting for the Ui Niall, who quickly realised their helplessness in the battle and routed. Just less than a thousand men were lost in the campaign before the Ri ruirech of the Ui Niall was killed, and Connachta established hegemony over the North of Eire.

The plans were coming together.

by **Maltropia** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 2:51 am

Amalfi, Southern Italy
1050 Anno Domini

Even since the fall of Rome, Italy remained the centre of European culture, home of the Papacy and of some of the continent's richest nations. Despite the invasions of tribes and northern peoples further up the peninsula, the south remained largely Italian - or even Roman, the Byzantines holding a substantial strip of land. The era of a unified Italy was over, however, and now began the rise of the city-state. On the forefront of this new wave was the Republic of Amalfi, a rapidly-growing trading and naval power below Naples. Though perhaps "below Naples" was the wrong term; had not the Arab Ibn Hawqal called Amalfi "the most prosperous Lombard city, the most noble, the most illustrious for its conditions, the most wealthy and opulent"? Had he not also stated "The territory of Amalfi borders that of Naples; a beautiful city, but less important than Amalfi"?
Whatever of the opinions of the Muslims, Amalfi - now a subject of Salerno, but on more or less equal footing - under Guaimar IV was a prosperous port, well-placed to trade throughout the Mediterranean Sea. Or would be well-placed, were it not for the Emirate of Sicily right on Amalfi's doorstep. They were as capable on the seas as Amalfi, though not as rich a nation. Their armies, however, were much more capable than the Amalfitan forces. Survival in the face of a growing Islamic threat could not be achieved by one small city-state and a principality in the south of Italy; Guaimar would have to go to someone far more powerful for assistance.

Three horsemen journeyed out on the winding, climbing paths, bound for Rome and the Pope. They carried a message asking for the Pope's support, pledging to defend Italy should it be assailed.

by **Machtergreifung** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 4:57 am

Kinlochkilkerran, Argyll

Domnall Dunkeld had driven out the pagan Norsemen with a force of some six thousand. The original force of King's men and realm levies had dropped to some four thousand through disease and battle, and the balance made up for by clansmen. The clansmen were a continual source of irritation for the Prince, as they did not mix well with lowland troops, nor with each other. The clansmen were drawn from various clans - second and third sons, younger brothers, the men of the clan who stood no chance to inherit and so had to make a name or a living for themselves elsewhere.

The Norse had decided for the most part to withdraw to the Isles proper. Kinlochkilkerran was the only major Norse settlement in the southern reaches of the Isles, and so meant that the Norse controled areas south of that would fall under the influence of the Scottish crown. Word reached Domnall of the pact with Connacht while he was subjegating Arran, and he sent four of his eight galleys to find the Connacht ships.

Bothwell, Strathclyde

The King was waiting. It made no sense to march to one battle with another brewing behind his back. The King's host was set to construction work and the farmers and herders who had been part of the levy were sent home to the feilds. The remainder, life long soldiers, freebooters and people with no alternative other than starvation or death, set about building.

It was not much. A wooden wall with a ditch, and a longhall, but the surrounding villages would be glad for it. So too would the King. The small castle could protect the Clyde from any crossing, and would be a serious thorn in the side of anyone in the area.

While idle, affairs of state were also attended too. Stirling Castle was to be fortified, and the King approved plans to make the small castle at Edinburgh a royal castle, and with his approval he send orders that the castle should have it's defenses improved. Should Malcolm Dunkeld march into England, he wanted a strong realm at his back, and castles were the strongest means of asserting control.

by **Of the Quendi** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 8:03 am

The Byzantine Empire
The City of Constantinople, Capital of the Empire

The Byzantine Empire, the most powerful and most glorious of all christian realms, was in peril. The empire that just twenty five years ago, during the reign of Basil II, had brought the Bulgars to fall and regained its preeminence as the true succesor to the Roman Empire, was plagued by political deadlock between the last scions of the once mighty macedonian dynasty. Empresses Zoe and Theodora, the daughters of Constantine VIII was ruling jointly, together with Zoe's inept husband Constantine IX, and the discord between the three emperors was burdening the empire, which also had to come to terms with the inevitable expiration of its macedonian dynasty.

The situation had left the empire largely unable to use its otherwise considerable ressources to exert its power at home and abroad. The Patzinaks, a barbarian folk from the asian steppes, uncontestedly ravaged the Balkans, already in a weakened state from rebellions and wars, while the Seljuq's only grew bolder in the east. All the while imperial authority was undermined as concessions where given to the landed gentry which grew more and more independent. The situation was dire.

But with the ageing empress Zoe's health declining a new situation seemed likely to arise. Empress Theodora hoped so. She had no illusions about the ineptity of her brother-in-law, and doubted that she nad he would be able to reign jointly with any success. So Constantine IX Monomachos would have to be removed. The empire demanded it so, lest it should decay even further. Adamant in her intent to secure for her empire a competent succesor upon the now inevitable demise of her sister was preparing a scheme against Constantine IX. As the people of Constantinople had on numerous occassions displayed their support for the legitimate macedonian dynasty the empress had no doubts that she, if she acted swiftly, could rouse the rabble against Constantine IX and have him exiled. But what would be next? At the age of seventy Theodora knew she could not sire an heir herself, nor did she wish to ever be intimate with a man. But she was willing to marry, and she was willing to adopt.

She would do both. She would marry to gain a potent ally, the former Logothete Michael Bringas was a candidate worth consideration, and she would find a a scion of the Macedonian Dynasty to rejuvenate the dying dynasty. All she needed was some able allies and time. The Empire would be restored.

by **The Blazing Aura** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 8:34 am

They had done it, no doubt the reinforcements from Deheubarth and the 'traitors' from Gwent had helped seize the day, Gwent especially as they head swapped sides at a crucial moment, their Light infantry smashing into the flank of the army they were supposed to be protecting. no matter they had won the day and Gruffydd was now King of Wales, all of it.

Still he had pressing matters to think about, he knew from past experience that England or rather Mercia would not take the whole campaign lightly and would be likely to launch an attack to try and weaken the threat the Welsh now posed, and as much as Gruffydd wanted to march into Mercia right away he knew he had to consolidate his gains or face losing them whilst he was away. The other matter was more interesting, an envoy from the Connaught, had arrived just after the capture of Carmarthen, Gruffydd was interested in this alliance and was tempted to use his navy, or more specifically, the bigger and stronger navy Deheubarth had, to sail across the Irish sea and help, though the one condition he had was any towns or cities and surrounding areas that he captured stayed as his. Making his mind up he called for the Envoy to o through the message again, it was blunt to say the least and Gruffydd finally decided to accept the alliance, under the one condition he stressed, however, in the reply he asked for time, for two reasons, first the Winter season was almost here and with it Sea travel would be impossible, as well as the inevitable lowering in Morale whenever wintertime approached. Secondly he had asked for time to consolidate, make sure loyal men were governors of important towns and cities and those who had helped him were given the just rewards for their help. It was a difficult time to be King, and Wales had always been a difficult country, but certainly now more than ever things were going its way.

by **Demphor** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 10:50 am

"Sire! Letters from the Papacy!"
The doors of the palace hall burst open with the Emperor's servant carrying the note. The Emperor snatched the note and opened it.
"We call on you to fulfill your oath to the Catholic Church?" said Henry, "Sicilian Emirate?" he added. "These are troubling times ahead of us and I find it suitable to aid the Church of Christ." he said to himself. He turned to his servant.
"Convene my Military Council."

"Your Majesty, what news from the Church?" asked one of his Generals.
"They require us to fulfill our oaths to the Catholic Church." said the Emperor.
"What is your bidding sire?"
"Assemble 50,000 souls and march south, I'm relying on your belief in God and his Son to defend the home of the Pope."
"Yes sire," said the Generals, and walked out of the room.

by **Osthia** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 11:59 am

Rome, Papal States
"Your Holiness, letter from the Amalfi Republic and messages from the Holy Roman Empire. They have pledged their support in the removal of the Sicilian Emirate. The Amalfitans ask for us to pledge our armies as well." Leo IX looked at his gonfaloniere, the commander of the Papal Armies-a mere 2,000 men. The Pope knew that he had to commit some men, but he could not leave the Papacy defenseless and at the will of foreign nations. "Pledge 1,000 men to the cause. In the meantime, I will see if we can recruit some of the villeins to the Papal army that is staying here. They will act as our reserves and would leap at the chance to live outside of the lands of their lords."

To Guaimar IV, Prince of Salerno and Duke of Amalfi,

The Papal States will pledge 1,000 men to the cause. It is the most I can spare while not leaving our Papacy defenseless to those who would take advantage of our condition. They will be under the command of Gonfaloniere Alfonso Silvestri, a man loyal to the Papacy and to Christ. The Holy Roman Empire has also pledged a sizable force to the cause. We will smash these heathens against the coast of the Italian Peninsula and the Sicilian island. Deus vult!

Signed,

His Holiness, Pope Leo IX

by **Phoenigetuzstha** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 12:57 pm

Messina, Emirate of Sicily

Ayyub had moved his court to Messina for the time being, it was the closest point to mainland Italy within Sicily, and as it was one of the large cities on the island, it had a large and loyal Muslim population. In addition to moving his court, Ayyub had ordered the standing army to join him in Messina, so they could meet any Christian attack quickly. He was keen to ensure his archers arrived, as they were the true driving force behind his army. They used the composite bow, something the ignorant Europeans turned their noses up at, disregarding it as a thing of the east. His archers had a range greater than the best crossbowmen, and thus, as long as he didn't engage until absolutely necessary, he could kill many with Islamic arrows.

Ayyub himself was sitting in his chambers, the palace he was staying in used to be a Byzantine governors. He walked out onto the balcony, to the view of the small gap of water known as the Strait of Messina. Here would be the place the Christians would most likely begin their campaign. He heard a knock on the door, the servant ran in holding another piece of parchment. This time the Caliph's seal hadn't been broken.
"Emir Ayyub ibn Tamim, a letter from the noble Caliph Al Mustansir..." The servant was clearly out of breath. Breaking the seal, Ayyub began smiling, the price was reasonable, if slightly high, but the Emirs before him had been so kind to store spare bullion for future use, he would pay for the troops with this.
"Please, write the Caliph a letter thanking him, and the money will be sent when the troops arrive..." He said, turning around and smiling. The servant bowed and ran off. Ayyub once again looked back to the straits, wondering if he could now with even more ships blockade the straits, preventing the Christians from even getting to Sicily. Suddenly, another knock at the door, and Ayyub's Master of Hashashiyyin walked in confidently, but his face showed something different.
"You seemed troubled Al-'Aqrab, what is the matter?" Ayyub asked, offering his officer a seat.
"Emir," He began, bowing and holding his tunic "I have grave news, the Papacy have begun inviting the nations of Christendom to fight against us." He closed his eyes for a moment, before opening them, wanting to see how Ayyub would react to the news. He seemed surprisingly calm, however his face seemed devoid of emotion as he realised what was to come.
"Carry on..." He said, not blinking.
"Yes, Emir. The Holy Roman Empire have sent 50,000 troops to the Papal States aid, but from what we've gauged, they shouldn't be a problem, apart from their pikes who seem to be the backbone of the army. The Papal states also seem to contributing, but their manpower is limited, and they can't field no more than 1,500. Finally there is the Republic of Amalfi. They are expected to field around 10,000 maybe more to the Christians cause. All in all their army could potentially reach 65,000 or so." He sat back and waited.

There was a long pause before Ayyub started. "Their naval strength?"
"Only Amalfi have a navy to provide, 82 vessels." Al-'Aqrab said solemnly.
"So, if we defeat them at sea, with our superior naval numbers, then we will not have to worry about an invasion, will we not? Even if we sink some transport ships, we could nearly even the numbers, we have 39,000 men, and we have the home advantage, I say, praise Allah and bring it on!" He smiled, fetching two chalices and pouring some watered-down wine. Very watered-down wine.
"Praise be to Allah and may he bless us in the coming campaign!"

by **Demphor** » Sat Jun 09, 2012 1:49 pm

"The Republic of Amalfi has only 82 vessels?" said Henry III, "Any invasion of Sicily is insane!" he exclaimed.
"Sire, if anything, this assault on Sicily is insane."
The Emperor paced, fuming, "Send a rider to my army, tell them and the Pope that the Roman Army will only DEFEND the Papacy and nothing else. I will not accept an invasion against a vastly superior navy!" he said.
The Rider left the gates of Frankfurt.

1050 AD - Medieval RP [IC]

1050 AD - Medieval RP [IC]

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