1202-The Reborn World-IC

by **Valentir** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 9:44 am

Louvre Palais, Paris, Kingdom of France

Philip sat at his desk, quietly over looking a number of papers. It was early in the morning, and Philip rose before the rest of the castle, as he normally did. He poured his own wine, and got to work as early as he could. The king worked very hard, and his diligence was invaluable for France. Philip took a small sip of white wine, fresh from the vineyards in Champagne. Philip loved wine, and owned many of vineyards throughout France. It was a personal goal of his to liberate the wineries in Angevin France. As his mind began to wonder, there was a knock at the door. "Come in." The door creaked open and the Royal scribe, Francois, walked in. "Your majesty, a letter, from the Scottish." Philip got up from his chair, "let me see." He broke the seal and read over the letter. Philip smiled and walked over to a map of Europe, setting on a side table. He put the letter down and picked up an iron dagger. He ran his finger over the blade, and looked to the West. He stared at England, the kingdom which has held a sword to the throat of France. "No more," Philip muttered. He took the dagger and with a fierce blow, and stabbed at England.

"Francois, fetch me my quill and ink." Francois did so without question. He set them on the king's desk and stood by the door. "Now, go and fetch the Marshall-at-Arms, and then tell the Bishop to ride to Toulouse. Raimond is to be here within a fortnight." Francois bowed and did as the King had asked. Philip read the letter one more time. Scotland and France were now allies, with Toulouse and Burgundy behind him, France's time was near. Philip sat down and began to write several letters. His allies must be mustered, for France would soon be at war.

To: The Council of Pisa
From: King Philip II Augustus of France

Dear Council of Pisa,
Councillors of Pisa, I write this letter in a time of great need. As you are most likely aware, the Kingdom of France and the Angevin Empire have been at odds for decades now. Well I'm near ready to set this dispute between us straight. However, France, while being quite prosperous, is in need of extra funds to hire mercenaries. I appeal to the Council of Pisa, lend France 30,000 livres to hire Flemish Mercenaries, and I shall repay you within 6 years. I would also like to increase the ties between our states, and feel that a non-aggression pact and tariff reduction would be most beneficial. If you feel the need to offer something else or discuss terms about my offer, please do not hesitate.
Sincerely,
King Philip II Augustus of France

To: Duke Arthur I of Brittany
From: King Philip II Augustus of France

Dear Duke Arthur,
I write to you in a time of great strife, my lord. As you well know, John, your relative, is ruining England. The English coffers are bare, the army is depleted, the Barons near revolt. You have a claim to the throne, my lord, and you know what I desire. Arthur, I offer you an alliance, an alliance to depose John, set you on the throne of England, and return my rightful possessions to me. England is weak and our time is now. Will you join me, my lord, or be destroyed in the storm to come? I hope you see the light, and may god guide your step.
Sincerely,
King Philip II Augustus of France

To: Lord Hugh IX of Lusignan
From: King Philip II Augustus of France

Dear Lord Hugh,
Lord Hugh, you are one of the few French lords who remain in Angevin England. For decades the House of Plantagenet has exploited the French people, and destroyed the French Kingdom. This crime cannot go unpunished. King John has bankrupted England, her forces are in a terrible state. The barons in England are near revolt, and his authority is being challenged day-to-day. Lord Hugh, I ask that you form an alliance with me, and together we may push those English rats back into the Channel. The lands they have stolen from you shall be restored and more. Join your forces with mine, and the greatness of France shall be restored.
Sincerely,
King Philip II Augustus of France

by **Traders Union** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 11:05 am

Sarai, Cuman Khanate
[Tab=][/Tab]Khan Danylo Kobiakovych, called silver hawk by the army, sat atop his favorite steed. Taken during his first raid against the Alans, he has always has felt attached to this horse. Probably because his first kill was running the first owner through with a spear. He still had that spear somewhere, he remembered. Looking out over the sprawling tents and pens of Sarai, Danylo felt a surge of pride for his Khanate. His Khanate was the strongest in Central Asia, as most Cumans felt. Slowly riding through Sarai, Danylo watched his brothers and sisters at work. Some were practicing riding for pleasure, others practicing new moves and archery form horseback. Smiths worked on creating new weapons, others repairing weapons from previous raids. Danylo noticed that the campfires and taverns were unusually full today. Perhaps the warriors were drinking to prepare for raids. Danylo even noticed that the shamans actually had some people in their rings and tents.
Making his way to the war tent, Danylo arrived and had his steed tethered. Ducking into the war tent, Danylo took a second to adjust to the shade inside the tent. Everyone that he ordered was here, he noticed. At least the current chiefs were loyal to him, Danylo thought. Upon entering the tent, all inside rose and bowed out of respect. Even the slightly..unhinged chief Otarbai.
"Greetings Great Khan," Otarbai said, rising out of his bow.
This was echoed by every other chief in the tent.
"Greetings Honorable Chiefs," Danylo said to the group, sitting down on a sheep-skin pillow. "Otarbai, fetch me the map," he told Otarbai. After Otarbai grabbed the map, Danylo unfurled it on the large table before him. "What are you planning Khan?" asked chief Elubai. All eyes turned expectantly towards Danylo. "The Bulgarians have been a thorn in our side for awhile. The-," Danylo started before he was interrupted by the youngest chief in the tent, Azder "How many men do you need Khan? I have many eager riders ready to pillage the Bulgarians," he said in a rush. "Calm down Azder. Wait for the Khan to speak to you. Besides, you lack the knowledge to fight such a large enemy. If I remember correctly, you nearly lost to fifty raiders," Otarbai told him, with a smirk on his face. "That was a fluke, I promise you Khan," Azder told Khan, visibly embarrassed. "Otarbai is correct Azder, I need an older chief to lead this attack. However I do have a task for you. Take your most seasoned riders, hiring mercenaries if needed, and conquer Gothita. This will give you the field experience that you need. Otarbai, I want you, in addition to chief Orazbek, to gather your hosts and head out against the Bulgarians. Pillage anything you do not take. I will be able to send an additional twenty thousand men to help," Danylo told the council. "I am honored Khan. The Bulgarians will face the sword and arrow," Otarbai said while bowing. He rose and departed. Azder repeated this action and left. Danylo nodded to the remaining chiefs, signaling they were dismissed. After the council left, Danylo re-mounted his horse and started the ride to the master of coin and trade. The Silk Road routs needed to be checked on again
Bulgarian-Cuman border
Groups of two hundred raiders amassed and began riding into Bulgarian land. War was at hand

by **Kisinger** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 4:18 pm

Dresden, Saxony

Duke Bernard I sat in the great hall in Saxony overlooking a map of Holy Roman Empire. The electors including himself had been relatively indecisive when voting over the last few years but he would vote for himself this coming year.His military was steadily increasing as he was trying to find resources in nearby states to conquer. Brandenburg was a liable target along with a few nearby other smaller states. Bohemia was a word of Caution as he was much larger than he and they shared a large border. He sighed and Called out "Bring me some more wine, and get a messenger to give the call to raise levies." The servants were shocked but replied with a shaky "Ye-yes My lord." As they quickly walked out of the room. The Duke smiled knowing this would probably alarm a few states causing them to raise their levies giving him a reason to invade. Not to mention nearby Saxon minorities which could be exploited. Yes this would be a good year.

by **The Seleucids (Ancient)** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 8:15 pm

Atabeg of Mosul

Meeting of the Military
Nur ad-Din Arslan Shah I had called upon his generals to meet, he had another dream, a dream that guided him the way to independence. "I had a dream last night, one that came directly from Allah, La Illaha Illa Allah. He showed me the path to indpendence, he showed me how, when and where. I trust in Allah to guid me on this path and i will follow it by all means.
I want you to send out a rider to my son, send him this message. Tell him to offer it to the tribal folks.
The dream i had showed me the path, the path of mercy.
We will offer mercy to the tribes, in return they will have to help us to get into a war with these weak northern tribes. Their lands are important, rich of materials, people and strong natural defenses. Insha'Allah these lands shall be ours! Allahu Akbar!"
The generals looked at eachother in agreement, "Allahu Akbar!".
This message was send inmediatly to Mas'ud II 'Izz ud-Din who was currently still hunting these tribes.

Arab Tribal lands

Orange area is the expansion
of the safezone planned by
Mas'ud II 'Izz ud-Din

At the camp Mas'ud II was having dinner when the messanger arrived, "As-salamu alaykum, I have word from your father. A change in plan my lord" The messanger said as he handed over the letter.
"Wa alaykumu s-salam, thank you. Have a seat and eat something" Mas'ud II replied as he opened the letter. For some kind of reason he already knew the entire letter after he read only the first line, "La illaha illa Allah" he said as he walked off.
He went to his own messangers and gave them the letter meant for the Arab tribes. Within the hour they ran off into the territory of the Arab tribes.
Mas'ud II had drawn his own plan in these lands, there where several weakspots in this safezone, especially in the center of it. Mas'ud figured to expand it slightly, taking up better natural defensive points. For now his soldiers where still outside of the safezone, making sure no large tribal force would try to disrupt the constructions.

Two weeks later Mas'ud II got called right after prayer, "My lord, Tribal forces are approaching!" A guard said as he ran down to him.
"Insha'Allah they come in peace" Mas'ud II replied.
Today was the day that Mas'ud II wanted to show his men that he had Allah on his side, just like his father. He planned on meeting the tribes by himself, showing his soldiers that this was indeed Allah's work.
And so it happend. He rode out toward the tribes who where only hours away from the first outposts. Once he laid eyes on them it became clear that he had made the right move. The tribes had woman and childeren with them. "As-salamu alaykum, i am glad you came" he said as he road up to the tribal men who rode out front. "Wa alaykumu s-salam, we where convinced of the wise words of your leader" one of the men replied.
"Insha'Allah you will bring good to our people and we will bring good to yours" Mas'ud II answered as he walked with them.
Once at the camp he asked the tribes to stay for a few days to rest out. They agreed to it and Mas'ud told his men to make sure these tribal people got everything that they needed. Upon talking with one of the tribal leaders Mas'ud II found out that some 7 tribes where amongst those that just arrived and that some 6 more where on their way. He also told Mas'ud II about some 15 tribes that had refused the offer and as a show of good will the tribal leader told Mas'ud about the locations of those tribes. Mas'ud II appreciated this very much, now he had a chance to put an end to the atttacks on traders.

Four days later the remaining 6 tribes arrived at the camp, just like with the first group Mas'ud II had rode out on his own to meet them, which once again proved very usefull.
Now that all tribes had arrived Mas'ud II organized an escort for them to Mosul where Nur ad-Din Arslan Shah I would adress them further.
There was only one bad side about this all. This escort that Mas'ud arranged consisted out of a thousend men, half of what he had been given to put an end to the attacks on traders. He had to figure out how to effectively attack the tribes that had chosen death with only a thousend men.
These where concerns for later though. For now it was time to celibrate this "victory of Allah" as Mas'ud II called it.

Arrival of the Arab tribes in Mosul
Once the tribes arrived at Mosul, Nur ad-Din Arslan Shah I was waiting for them just outside of the city. He looked over the large amount of people that had come, it filled himself with hope that his plan might work. As the tribes all gathered up Arslan Shah decided to adress them, "Welcome all to Mosul, i have been looking forward to your arrival here. I'm sure you may distrust us or even hate us, and this is all understandable. We took action against you in the past becouse you attacked the traders coming to Mosul, this should also be understandable. I want to leave this all to the past and i want you all to focus on the future. Insha'Allah we will all forget the past and turn to eachother in peace from now on. I grant you all the same rights as all people in my country. I wish you the very best and may Allah guide you on your paths. Allahu Akbar!"
The crowd cheered, "Allahu Akbar! Allahu Akbar! Allahu Akbar!"
Soon after the meeting Arslan Shah sat down with the 13 tribal leaders to see what they could achieve together.
"As the proposal said, my mercy will not be free. I request a deed from your soldiers in the north, one that will spark hostilitie and most likely war between Mosul and the Northern states. Our armies are ready to take the north, though we cannot provoke a war ourselves, for this we need your men." Arslan Shah said to the tribal leaders.
One of the 13 stood up, "We have 1,800 men awaiting orders as we speak. Tell us what needs to be done and we will take care of it."
"I want you to raid the northern states, raid their traders, their villages and their farms and make sure they see you when you return to Mosul. I want them to know that we are behind this, i want them to make a counteraction which gives us a reason for war." Arslan Shah told.
The tribal leaders nodded in agreement, the plan was set, only preperations had to be made before the tribes would start carrying out their new orders.

Religious meeting
The day after the tribes arrived Nur ad-Din Arslan Shah I held a meeting with the religious leaders of Mosul. Most of them where Imam's though there where also Christian Priests and some other religious leaders present. Arslan Shah wanted to establish a nation where all religions where welcome. Though he believed that in the end Islam should be on top, this becouse most people in his nation where Muslim.
The meeting was about how the religions could help eachother and how they could stay out of any conflicts with eachother.
At the end of the meeting alot of progress was made and alot of agreements where established.
Arslan Shah was happy. That same day he signed a law which made it a crime to provoke another religion or to discriminate another religion. He hoped that with a proper punishment for those that violated it the agreements could hold.

Construction plans

Grand Mosque that will be build in Mosul on orders of Nur ad-Din Arslan Shah I

Now with these religious agreements, a war coming and Arslan Shah's dream of independence it was time to look at the cities he posessed.
With a good amount of architects Arslan Shah debated on what had to be done.
To start he took out the religious side. Arslan Shah wanted to build proper Churches, Mosques and other places of worship throughout his lands. Together with his architects he agreed on building some 85 new places of worship. This included his own masterpiece. While tolerance was the new way of life in his country, he still wanted to show his neighbours that Islam was still valued the most. To send a message clear enough to his neighbours he and the architects agreed on the construction of a grand Mosque, a Mosque that would prove worthy to Allah.

Besides these constructions Arslan Shah also had to look at other matters. Now that war was coming it would be a strong move to increase the defenses all over his nation. Arslan Shah held Mosul, which still had an old and weakend wall, he also held the citadels of Erbil and Kirkuk who had seen better days aswell.
With local Architects he developed construction plans for these three places.

Mosul's enterances would be reduced to just two. These two enterances would become small fortresses on their own. The walls also got more towers and weakspots would be taken out of them. On the ground just outside the walls a small wall would be build all around the city except where the enterances where. This small wall was build only to slow down enemy forces and to stop horses from coming close to the wall.

The citadel of Kirkuk was the most work. It was build on an elevated piece of land, though only half of that land was used by the fortress. To make it a strong and safe fortress walls would be build all around the platform, making sure the only way the enemy could get up was to come through the gates, which on their turn where fortified in a same manner as the gates at Mosul. Several other places where one could climb upon the elevated piece of land where destroyed.

In Erbil only small adjustments where made. The walls where made slightly higher and the enterance would be given the same treatment as in Mosul and Kirkuk.

Design of the Palace

Once all political matters where solved, it was time to lookat Arslan Shah's personal constructions. He wanted to construct a palace, not only for himself but also to send a message to the outside world. A message of wealth and political power.
Together with the architects they developed a basic plan. it would be build in Islamic style and it would become the biggest building in Mosul if one would ignore the grand Mosque.
The palace was also to be build right in front of the grand Mosque so all people could admire it every day.

by **Traders Union** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 8:38 pm

Sarai, coin masters hut
"Ah, my noble Khan. My day is brighter from seeing you," coin master Aiman bowed in mock formality. Aiman and Danylo were childhood friends. Their bond still held, even though Danylo was now Khan. "Always mocking me? You know that's not allowed now," Danylo joked back. "In all sincerity I need to know how well the Silk Roads are holding up," he said, sitting down on a cushion.
"They are all intact. No recent raiders have been sighted. Why do you need to know now?" Aiman asked
"I plan to enlarge my standing riders, I need to know how much of a burden this will place on us," Danylo responded
"Not much of a burden, the chiefs shoulder nearly all of the burden now. I heard of our new..expansions," Aiman told Danylo. "The Bulgarians land is, to be honest, dirt poor. However, taking Crimea is a lot better. We can trade with the Romans. They have resources that are desirable." he said. "I did not think of that friend. Thank you for your expertise," Danylo told Aiman, standing up.
"Always ready to help the glorious, honorable, divine, fab-," Aiman started a deluge of mock respect before he was cut of. "Just stop it Aiman, save your voice for those pesky merchants your so fond of," Danylo yelled at him, while riding away
Bulgarian lands
Captain Aibek looked over the field with immense satisfaction. His raiding party found the Bulgarian Khan and his host. Distracting them with arrows and spear, his men held until other raider groups surrounded and slaughtered the Bulgarian army. He had taken losses but not enough to cause a retreat. All of the Bulgarian men, including the khan, perished. Great spoils would await his men when they returned. Crows circled the bodies. Aibek noticed with a scowl that some raiders were looting the corpses. No true warrior would stoop so low he thought. The crows were circling. Behind him the assembled raiders waited in silence to hear his words. Taking in one last look over the bloody field, Aibek turned around. "My brothers, today is one of glory. This fool," he pulled the head of the Bulgarian Khan and holding it up to his men ,"thought he could beat us." Aibek waited a minute to let the snickers and laughs die down. "We have shown him what we can do. Perhaps this fool would be of more use as my new cup." Aibek comically pretended to drink from the Khans head. The laughter lasted for a good few minutes. "All joking aside for a minute my brothers, you have earned immense glory hear today. Now we hunt the remaining fools trying still to oppose us. Then we return to claim our spoils," Aibek finished, taken the Khan's head and attaching it to his saddle. As he rode away from the gathering, his mind drifted to what would come next. Which fools would try to stop him next.
Gothita-Cuman border
"Burn it all," chief Talgat ordered. This unfortunate village was the first to try and oppose the Cuman host. What fools they were he thought. A mere rabble of peasants tried to stop the battle hardened riders of Talgat. Their corpses show the end result of that. "Chief there is still women and children hiding in the village. They will perish if we-," a rider started to speak before he was cut off. "We gave them warning to leave. Light the village and kill anyone who attempts to flee but one. Let one live to spread fear for us," Talgat ordered. Seeing no one start the fire, he notched a flaming arrow and let it fly. With a thud it landed in a pitch roof, instantly starting a blaze. "Finish the job. Now," Talgat ordered. His riders galloped into the village. By the end of the hour, the whole village was ablaze. Talgat's riders formed a loose ring around the edge. A few came running out. All but one were shot instantly and killed. Even a small child. Talgat saw his orders had been followed as a young man came running out. He escaped, hopefully to spread word of the death that fell on anyone who resisted the Cumans
Goth village on fire

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 8:59 pm

Glorious Russki Reservation; Fear the Black Prince!

by **Alleniana** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 11:00 pm

To His Holiness, the Pope, Vicar of Christ, Bishop of Rome, Head of the Most Catholic Church on Earth, et cetera,

Greetings, father; we hope that this letter finds you in good health and spirit both. Old friends in this realm of Italy and within Christendom, it would not do for these pleasantries to be dismissed. However, we do indeed write with a purpose other than your well-being and our contentment. Recently, we have come across an idea, a proposal, that we thought we ought to submit to you, to see of its plausibility and pleasure to you. Indeed, we believe that it will be of great benefit to us both, surely something that can only be good.

See, Pisa has long maintained control and hegemony over both the islands of Sardinia and Corsica, their people and leaders willing to see Pisa as leader and protector, a status affirmed by one of your most noble predecessors. We are sure that you have been informed of the recent encroachments, however, of Genoa, as well as the disloyalty of various giudices in Sardinia, that have led to the decline of Pisan power in some parts of the areas. Primarily caused by the greedy incursions of the Genoese, we have had trouble making sure that both the good Christians of the two islands may live in peace and that their proper protector remains us. Not wishing to resort to war as we have been forced to in past, we instead decided to seek redress with you, to inform the misguided Genoese of their incorrect actions. The most important things would be for them to withdraw their agents from Corsica, where they run amok and cause much grief for our people there, and to deny the influence they have over any of the giudices of Sardinia, most importantly Comita III of Torres.

Upon that issue, as well, we seek help. Giudice Peter I of Arborea currently resides under arrest in Pisa, after being defeated on the field of battle by our ally William I of Cagliari, a giudice, with aid from our other ally on the island, the giudice of Gallura. Currently, despite having sworn oaths to us, they often pursue independent agendas and stray from what should be done. We hope that you, alongside removing the Genoese from their unjustified domains, may ask them to bequeath their lands to Pisa, via their lines of descent, and furthermore enabling the choosing of a new giudice for Arborea, Peter I one of the troublemakers mentioned and currently found in captivity to be committing such great sins as onanism. In this way, Pisa would maintain formal hegemony over all four of the giudices of Sardinia, with the Republic's influence over each of them as our representatives, as it should naturally be. Coupled with control of Corsica, this would be the other main part of the plan to bring justice and peace to the two islands.

Of course, realising that the exertion of the Papal authority is not only strenuous but something to be most grateful for, and even in thankfulness for receiving this letter, we donate 10,000 bezants with this message, within the chest. We also hereby make and renew a pledge to protect your See, in whatever way we may, and however so it is possible. Even further, we would also be enabled to donate even more should we secure our proper maritime hinterlands, and perhaps look at donating ships should supremacy be established over Genoa and Venice. Though we would endeavour not to make it as if it is a conditional reward, the prosperity and strength that would be brought about by the plan would be much lavished upon Rome as Pisa, and be a great strengthening of our already burgeoning relationship. Not only that, but we would strive to find other ways to aid you, should they be needed, for such a great pope.

Another thing that we must finally concern you with, at last, is recent Byzantine actions. We have already begun to prepare a task force of several dozen galleys to send to the Eastern Romans in response to a most heinous action that they committed a few months ago; in violation of many agreements by which Venice, Genoa and Pisa have defended and lent to it, it has expelled all our people from our merchant quarters with nary an explanation or compensation, and taken over their rightful assets. Though they have been bad in enough in creating a church with two heads, we simply cannot stand this blatant violation of agreements which were so officially made and ratified. As such, we seek your permission to immediately gather our fleet and sail, with aid, to make attacks upon them until our debt is extracted, or until a suitable peace is made, by which they would restore the Catholics which it has offended to their proper positions with reparations for their trouble. Pisa, in an uproar about it, looks to your blessing to gather the galleys of Christendom and teach the eastern church a lesson.

We do hope that what we have put forth is not too zealous nor foolish to be considered, and so thusly commend it to you for judgement and approval. Pisa looks for vengeance, first and foremost, upon the great damages wreaked by those of Constantinople with whatever means necessary to have them see light, as well as hoping for a quieter, later fix to the incorrect state of affairs off our coasts, and would be much indebted as to provide protection, money and materials to you for it, and even further endeavours such as a Crusade. We therefore await a reply gladly.

Consul Vittorio di Pisa

by **Fralinia** » Sun Nov 30, 2014 3:22 am

Island of Gavnø, Denmark: Midsummer, 1202

The din of seamen overpowered the hustle and bustle of the otherwise innocuous town of Næstved. While her own docks sat only reasonably well-filled, just downriver, at a small and unassuming island just a few sandbanks from the coast of southern Zealand, a host of men were gathering for war.

Rotten logs lashed together and strung out into the fjord passed for docks as 150 longboats from across Denmark milled about, slowly loading up with men and supplies. Each one had been filled, per custom, with men from the same village or cluster of villages. These were how most of them arrived anyway, reclaimed from the local fishermen who hired them out during times of peace and sailed into the Karrebæk by the very men that built them. Still more could be seen arriving in the distance, tiny black dots against the sea foam on the barrier islands. They would bring the last few bands of warriors that Denmark was offering to her foes.

Valdemar II, surrounded by his war council, sat in his tent discussing the coming hostilities with his lieutenants and commanders. In the midst of the tent was a large table, covered in papers and a large map of Denmark and the southern Baltic coasts. After looking over the map for a while, Valdemar called on one of his advisers to give him a summary of the nobles that had raised troops and those that had not.

The diminutive adviser spoke up and began reading off of a scribbled piece of parchment. "As per your orders, none of the nobles in Scania were told to muster, save the Duke of Helsingborg, who sent 4 longboats. Most of the fiefs and counts in the south sent at least some men, though not nearly what we have known them to raise in the past. The dukes and counts of Nordjylland sent their usual numbers, the ones on the coasts sending more than normal, but it seems that the Midtjyllanders and the Sjaelanders for the most part could not be bothered. We also have very recently received word that there is a small pack of 3 or 4 longboats full of Norwegian volunteers that will be here in less than a day. In all, we have on this island over 700 score of willing men. Our supplies will last us another few days before we must sail, and we will be ready to go before then, Sire."

Valdemar nodded and pondered the situation before addressing the entire war council, which included his young Bohemian, Vratislav. "We have discussed this, but let us review the details of the operation. I will lead our main force, a 120 longboat fleet, south towards Lübeck. We will first defeat her naval forces, which should be easy enough, then sail up the Trave and beseige her. Following this, I and this council will decide whether to leave some troops behind to occupy Lübeck while the main force sails on to Wismar, and possibly Rostock."

He then turned to Vratislav. "You will be leading your fleet of 50 longboats to our port of Rügen, where you will meet up with some additional forces, resupply, and then sail to our ally, Stralsund. From there, you are to march on Griefswald. Should you manage to capture Griefswald, I wish you to head south and make camp near the city of Demmin. Try to cut off the city, but do not lay seige to her, she has a strong fortress and your army will be weakened. If you run out of supplies or are met with a vastly superior force, march back for Stralsund and send word to me. Do you understand?"

Outside, the ships were almost full, the last few back dots were trickling onto the docks, most of the men either lugging around supplies or waiting in their camps all along the shores of the island and the fjord. In a few hours, all would be ready.

Six hours later

Valdemar II, son of Cnut, looked out to the south, and the sea. His people had been moving for months now, toiling and marching... all for this one moment, this one chance for a forgotten nation to prove herself. The fate of the Baltic was in the balance; it was Denmark's zenith or her fall. With heavy thoughts weighing on such a burdened mind, the King decided to fulfill his duties and then ponder the subject.

He stood on the prow of the finest longboat of the fleet, ready to embark. Before him were 90 men, awaiting his mark, and a thousand other eyes watching their boat for the signal to move out.

"Men, today we start that which will make us or doom us, raise our proud people above the common rabble in the East or drive us into the cold embrace of history. What do you sail for? Ask that of yourselves before you answer without knowing. Oarsmen, at the ready!"

40 pairs of oars slid out from the sides of the boat and sat ready in the cold waters of the fjord.

"Helmsman, at your post!"

The burly helmsman grasped his hand around the tiller, ready to perform his duties.

"Unfurl the sail!"

The few men not in the rowing benches or at the tiller began working the ropes around the mast, and within a few seconds, the King's sail was flying: the Lion of Denmark roared into the horizon, and the slack cloth caught the light breeze, lurching the ship forward and away from the dock. The drum started beating, signaling the rowers to begin the rhythmic pumping of the oars, and the fleets of the Danes departed their homeland for war.

by **Aileach** » Sun Nov 30, 2014 6:06 am

The Kingdom of Aileach
An Ríocht na Aileach

The beeswax candles flickered and danced around the writing desk, throwing shapes and shadows across the parchments below. Ardgar sat in his high-back wooden chair, pondering over the cuts of sheepskin intently. He was wrapped in the traditional garments as befits an Irish noble, with a vibrant red linen léine worn under a huge yellow woolen brat, inlaid with the King's coat of arms and fastened with a silver and gold broach wrought in the shape of a half moon.

He had spent the better part of two hours at the desk, going by the melted wax pooling underneath the candles, but at last he was content with his scratchings. It amused him slightly as he watched the lines of beady black ink dry, to think of how those little strokes could change the course of entire nations, change history itself.

A burst of quick raps on the heavy oaken door stole his attention. Without lifting his eyes, he bellowed for the visitor to enter, who proved to be none other than his Tanaiste, Fiacra Mac Dochartaigh. Fiacra was a young man yet, just twenty-two years on him compared to Ardgar's thirty-nine. This was the man who would inherit the Kingdom, provided he didn't fall from his horse and crack his skull like his predecessor.

"I have finished my letter to the Scots, Fiacra" the King announced sitting back in his chair, leaning against the padded upholstery, bound to the wooded frame with small iron studs. The Tanaiste stopped in front of the desk, taking a seat across from the King. Ardgar handed the letter across the table.

To William, by the Grace of God, King of Scotland,

Dia dhuit a chara, I hope this letter finds you and your family in good health. I write to you as a friend and a fellow Catholic, but foremost as kin. Our Kingdoms share a people, a culture, a tongue and history, but most importantly we share a deep rooted and fermenting hatred of our common enemies the English.

For too long the English have been allowed to run savage on these isles of ours, plundering the homes and villages of our people, stealing their lands and wealth. They are foreigners to these lands, and they are a plight that must be removed. This shall be no easy task, for the English beast is a large and formidable foe. This is why I write to you now, with an offer of friendship and brotherhood, with an alliance.

Alone we stand but no chance, together we can stand tall. I propose an alliance between our Kingdoms, so that we may fight the common enemy as one. Aileach has been at open war with England for generations, and continue to move against their positions on Ireland. They have stolen great swathes of our land, much as they stole Northumbria from Scotland, and I know in my own heart that sick, twisting feeling when your people are under the heavy handed rule of such a hated man as King John.

God be with you and all the people of Scotland,
Slainte,
King Ardgar Mac Domnaill of Aileach

Fiacra handed the letter back across the table when he had finished reading before leaning back into his own chair, which unlike Ardgar's was not afforded with the luxury of a soft seat. He allowed half a smile to break across his face, though the King did not so much as twitch.

"Very emotive, mo Rí. King William will most certainly jump at the chance to stab an Englishman. Should I noti-"

"Watch that tongue, Fiacra." The King's voice was dripping with authority. "You will notify no one until this letter is delivered and a reply received." The ink had well and truly dried, so Ardgar began to roll up the parchment. Where the page overlapped he dripped down a splodge of red wax before pressing his own royal seal hard into it. "What you can do instead is meet with the Fergaile, the Áeda and the Murchado, their lands border those of the English. Tell them that they have my free and open blessing to raid in the held lands."

Ardgar stood, and the brat that he wore about himself draped to the floor. With his right hand he extended the letter to his second in command. "Tell each of the clans that raiding against our own brothers - that means those in Connacht and in Munster - will land them a fine and severe punishment."

Fiacra's jaw almost dropped open. "Mo Rí, surely you cannot be serious. The chieftains will be outraged."

"Tell them, Fiacra. And deliver that letter."

by **Pavlostani** » Sun Nov 30, 2014 10:03 am

Cairo
Sultanate of the Ayyubids

Sultan al-Adil wrote tirelessly to the flickering candlelight in his small office. al-Zahtar leaned in the door.

"Just wanted to let you know, we've started the outreach to the bedouins, ought to have plenty in a few months." He said.

"Good, General. There'll be a caravan waiting for you tomorrow to take you to Damascus, I want you to begin raising an army there." al-Adil was pleased.

"And then move it towards Crusader territory?" al-Zahtar asked.

"No, remain in Damascus until you receive further orders. It depends on the response to this." al-Adil lifted the letter he was writing.

To Emperor Alexios of Byzantium
Greetings upon thee! The Ayyubid Sultanate is honored to become acquainted with your Byzantium. For too long, our people have warred, but alas, the days of Manzikert are over. I extend my hand to you, and in it, the seeds of friendship so that together, we can withstand and overcome our common foes. Unfriendly eyes are upon us in Rome and Konya, where the treacherous Catholics and Seljuks plot their next moves. We know you have had troubles with the Sultanate of Rum, which is why we are organizing an army of Bedouins to conduct harrying raids in Seljuk territory, to relieve you of their onslaught. I also have lowered tariffs on Byzantine goods by 30%, in hopes that trade between our peoples is stimulated. In return, I ask for alliances, both trade and defense. For the common good of our peoples, we must put aside any past differences if we are to defeat the relentless foes that threaten our very ways of life.
May Peace and Fortune be upon Thee,
Sultan al-Malik al-Adil Sayf al-Din Abu-Bakr ibn Ayyub

al-Zahtar nodded, approvingly.

"If the Seljuks attack, I want you and your army far enough north to repel them. If not, then focus your might on Jerusalem." al-Adil ordered.

"Very well. I apologize for prying, but what is that one?" al-Zahtar pointed a to a second letter al-Adil had written.

To the leaders of the Dominions of the Almohades
Glory of God upon thee! Long has it pained the Ayyubid Sultanate that the empire of the Ummayads has split. And so, I offer you my hand, and in it, the seeds of friendship. We are troubled by the advances made by the spawn of Pelayo the Vile, and their reconquista. We are even more troubled by the inroads that Rome is making in the world. The Pope is expanding his influence on all sides and only a combined force of God's children can stop him. So, I offer you Mamluk regiments, fighting alongside your own forces against the Catholic horde, as well as adding my forces to a flotilla at Gibraltar, to prevent any Crusading or Reconquesting troops access to the Mediterranean.
God is Great,
Sultan al-Malik al-Adil Sayf al-Din Abu-Bakr ibn Ayyub

by **Colonna** » Sun Nov 30, 2014 1:52 pm

Royal Tent, Military Encampment
Kvetná, The Margraviate of Moravia
The Holy Roman Empire

TBA

by **Mesrane** » Sun Nov 30, 2014 2:29 pm

The Kingdom of Scotland

Brodick Castle, Earldom of Arran, Kingdom of Scotland

"Order my lords. ORDER!" Your king approaches!" The royal sergeant bellowed at the top of his lungs.

The deafening discussion of so many earls in the Great Hall died down to a murmur before finally drifting off into death. Dozens of heads swung toward King William as he strode down the hall to take the place of honor at the head table alongside Donchadd fitz Ailin, the Earl of Arran, who had sacrificed a considerable sum of money and enormous quantities of food in order to bear the prestige of hosting the meeting. The young Donnchadd looked at his elderly King, awaiting the commencement of the proceedings. William stood very slowly, a parchment grasped tightly in his wrinkled hands. No sound in the hall was made save the steady breathing of the Earls and their king. And then, William's rasping yet confident voice boomed across the hall.

"Ge milis am fìon, tha e searbh ri dhìol.-The wine is sweet, the paying bitter." William looked hard at his vassals. "And for too long, far too long gentlemen-England has been drinking wine. Ours. In the form of Northumbria, lost to us for over thirty years. They haven't payed. They still drink wine in divine bliss, and it tears at me. It is high time that the true sons of Britain-we the Scots, we the Celts-take what is ours. Make what is ours. The world around us changes. We have allied with France, my son Alexander soon to be betrothed to Phillip's daughter Marie. I have received a letter from the doughty kingdom of Aileach in Ireland. They seek an alliance, and I think that I shall accept. The Welsh have fallen under the suzerainty of the English-so I think that I shall free them. King John and his lackeys have always desired my kingdom, your lands, and so I think I shall fight them. Some of his Barons have spoken out against him. Perhaps they will see the writing on the wall, and cast off the yolk of their King. I shall support them. France rightfully shall fight for her rightful lands, and in this also, I shall support them. Gentlemen, never before in history has our nation been so blessed in opprutunity. England lies weak, divided, and nearly bankrupt after Richard's crusades. I shall ride to war soon. Will you help me launch Scotland into greatness and ride with me?"

As William finished, the Great Hall erupted into cheers, clapping, "ayes," "nays," and protests all at once in a horrific orgy of support and opposition. William noticed almost immidiately that the northern Earls, centered around Atholl, Argyll, Moray, Angus, and Skye, and Ross along with practically every other Earl of the north were at once almost zealously supportive of the idea of a war against a weak England coordinated with two allies. Notable in the smaller opposition was Carrick, Cunningham and Dunbar, though William noticed with approval that Galloway and Annandale seemed at least marginally supportive of the proposal. Being so far south William couldn't find it in him to blame them for not being as fanatically supportive as those in the North. No doubt their caution will keep me thethered in the months to come, he reflected.

Donnchadd of Arran gently tapped his shoulder. William turned, and simply beheld a wolf-like grin from the young earl, an expression that looked frighteningly like William himself. The old King patted him on the back. The young man was showing enormous potential as an information gatherer and spymaster.

Standing, William locked eyes with Earl Patrick of Dunbar, the most vocal among the oppisition. "Now Patrick, listen to me . . . "

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brodick Castle
William stood with Alan Fitzwalter atop the gatehouse. September meant the lowlands were still green along with much of the Highlands, but a noticeable cold nip in the wind meant practically everyone threw on an extra layer at night. The two guards there were straight as rails, where once they had been slouching with boredom. "It's going quite well in there Alan. Carrick is won over, Cunningham stands by his oppisition, but he is beginning to waver. Dunbar is the same stubborn bastard as ever, but we can always proceed without one Earl, and of course there's no reason why he can't be won over in the next couple of days. Meanwhile I need to respond to Ardgar's letter, and hopefully Phillip's response will reach us soon. I want to strike the moment we are ready, but I want to maintain coordination with Phillip and Ardgar where possible. And . . . Goodness, quite a lot on my plate, eh? Earl Donnchadd has already agreed to be my emissary in Ireland and will arrive in Aileach shortly following my letter. I will need to pick another to send to the Welsh, and we'll have to just see if we cannot arrange a chat with John's most rowdy Barons."

A light drizzle began to pitter-patter against the ground. William looked up. "Oh my. we may have to move dinner inside after all."

Alan didn't bother with the sky and instead gazed at the roiling sea that surrounded the Isle of Arran. "Nay William, just beautiful Scottish weather."

Both men chuckled as the conversation turned to small talk and the progress of Alan's grandchildren.

Ardgar, By the Grace of God, King of Aileach

These are fortuitous times indeed in which we write to one another. We are not so alone as you might think. King Phillip of France has approached me with an offer to ally against England, an offer that I accepted almost immidiately. You may count France as an ally. But your letter speaks to me with a passion that I have not seen among my fellow Celts in many a year. Too long have we yielded to the English. Too long have we pandered to them, appeased them. It is time for the true sons and daughters of Britain, the heirs of the Romans themselves on our beloved isles, to take up the sword and to slay this English beast. I gladly accept your offer of an alliance.

Within a few days of the arrival of this letter, a single ship will arrive in Aileach from Scotland. On that ship will be Donnchadd fitz Ailin, Earl of Arran. He is young, but shows great promise as a spymaster. He is, functionally if not officially, my emissary and ambassador in Ireland. He will remain fully informed of my armies movements throughout the course of these events and will help your kingdom coordinate appropiately.

God bless you and the people of Aileach
Sincerely,
King William of Scotland

by **Liecthenbourg** » Sun Nov 30, 2014 3:08 pm

The Papal States

Rome; The Eternal City
"For God So Loved the World"
- John 3:16

To Consul Vittorio di Pisa

Greetings most honourable Consul. I am well and I hope I can find you in good health under the Lord's Good Will.
It troubles me dearly of these actions upon the isles of Corsica and Sardinia and the well-being and livelihoods of the Christians upon these isles should be the utmost priority. I can reaffirm that in my eyes, these islands are rightfully under the protection of Pisa and I will grant you within this document a letter to the Genoese informing them of this position.

Secondly, I will be much more willing to invite both the leaders of the Byzantine Empire and yourself to Rome as a way to try to broker a fair and equal treaty that will settle these disputes. The Flock may have parted, but the Wolves are always of more of a concern than the fellow Flock Members. Christian should not fight Christian - for we are brothers, despite their obvious heresies, and our enemy manifests itself within the East - a foe that should be dealt with.

His Holiness, Pope Innocent III, Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Jesus Christ, Successor of the Prince of the Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Primate of Italy, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province, Servant of the servants of God.

To Philip II Augustus, King of France
Your honesty is a most noble thing, Philip. I admire the aspect of honesty - a long lost trait in this world. I can understand that you feel your lands are rightfully yours and I too believe this is the case as John and I have had many-a disagreement in the past. However, I cannot believe your claims to his heresies without the proper proof. With this in mind however, I shall send an Inquisitor to the English Court to see these claims.

If your claims are to be true, I will give you my blessing.

His Holiness, Pope Innocent III, Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Jesus Christ, Successor of the Prince of the Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Primate of Italy, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province, Servant of the servants of God.

John of Ibelin, Regent of Cyprus and Jerusalem
Noblest Regent, my heart sinks into sadness as I hear your plight. With these factors in mind, I shall send missives to all the Courts in Europe and even those in the East to see if any man within their realms will rally up for the Glory of God, to defend what is left of Christendom in a land filled with Heathens.

His Holiness, Pope Innocent III, Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Jesus Christ, Successor of the Prince of the Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Primate of Italy, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province, Servant of the servants of God.

To All The Courts of Europe, Both Catholic and Orthodox.
Greetings my brothers under God. We live in many troubled times, with Islam battering on the doors of Byzantium, Iberia and the Holy Land. With these barbarians threatening to destroy the way we live, we cannot stand by idly as fellow men, women and children of Christ fight and die for the freedom. It is because of this, that I ask of you, to see if any individuals in your realms, soldiers, commoners, nobles, whomever, would seek to aid the undermanned and pinned down Crusader States in the Levant.

In continuation, I understand that my Orthodox Brethren may not be content with a Catholic Kingdom in control of Jerusalem, but I promise you this if we were to take the Holy City at any point in the future with your assistance I can guarantee the safety and security of your Pilgrims and their welcoming to the Holy Land.

His Holiness, Pope Innocent III, Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Jesus Christ, Successor of the Prince of the Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Primate of Italy, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province, Servant of the servants of God.

Tsar Ivan II Kayolan Asen, Ruler of Bulgaria
I am highly touched by your offers, Great Tsar of the Bulgars. Long have I wished to bring the Bulgarians back under the true and rightful communion, but alas there are several things I cannot agree to. Namely, the naming of the Head of the Bulgarian Church as a Patriarch cannot be negotiated on any level as it is a term that I will not accept. The bestowing of those relics of a time long by, I assume, could probably be negotiated.

Unfortunately, Papal Affairs and Hands are rather tied and I would be very appreciative of you perhaps sending a delegate to Rome.

His Holiness, Pope Innocent III, Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Jesus Christ, Successor of the Prince of the Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Primate of Italy, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province, Servant of the servants of God.

by **Estva** » Mon Dec 01, 2014 12:06 am

Buda, The Kingdom of Hungary
The Royal Palace

Emeric couldn't stop coughing. For a long time he had been plagued by an unkown illness, and with how long had suffered from it, it may very well be the death of him.

"Damn it all!" he shouted, frightening his servants. He didn't want to die, and he really didn't want to thrust his son into power too soon. His son was still a young boy, and Emeric's brother, Andrew, long-time claimant of the throne, would be declared regent until the boy was of age. Whether or not Andrew possessed the character to avoid killing his own nephew for ascension to the throne would have to be seen, but considering his previous actions, it was not unlikely.

An envoy then walked in, as Emeric lamented his position, to detail the position in Serbia.

"My liege, your vassal has done as asked and converted to the Roman Catholic faith, casting away the heretical nonsense spouted by the so-called Patriarch in Constantinople. He claims he used your given troops to purge the Serbian nobles that refused to follow suit, and the mass conversion of Serbia is underway."

Good, good,Emeric thought to himself. While this would no doubt anger the Bulgarians yet further, and strain relations with the Empire to the south, the Pope would no doubt be more than pleased that Serbia will soon be Catholic and under his sway.

"Inform the Pope, he must know of our zeal." Emeric retorted.

"Yes, my liege." The lower noble fulfilling the position of envoy said, leaving after the order was given.

Word had reached Emeric that the Bulgarians had been preparing for conflict. While in any other scenario he would assume they may attack him, he knew the Galicians to the east were just as big a threat to them as he was. He couldn't "prepare" anyway, what he had available served as garrison in Serbia, and only war would justify calling the troops of the vassals. If the Bulgarians dared invade, he would react. Only their death would come of it, surrounded by three hostile powers.

Emeric wished he could expand, but as long as Bulgaria was a threat he couldn't risk it. The so called "Holy Roman Empire" always sought new member-states, carved out of larger nations if needed. The only opportunities lay in the Orthodox rump-state of Zeta, whose annexation would no doubt infuriate the Byzantine emperor. Rebellions by the Serbians would also no doubt follow, as the weakening of the garrison would be required, as well as bringing about an Orthodox zeal as her "brothers" are attacked.

Emeric decided that all he could do as wait, with the damnable cough.

by **The Holy Dominion of Inesea** » Mon Dec 01, 2014 1:54 pm

Byzantium
Byzantine Empire

To King Emeric of the Kingdom of Hugary

Indeed it is disheartening when good Christian folk fight while the dark tide of Islam marches closer and closer to Europe's Gates. The Bulgarian Empire has committed many wrongs upon our very own Empire, as well as yours, despite our Orthodox likeness. Both of our nations would well be justified in seeking retribution upon the Bulgarian State.However, that war will merely weaken Christendom in the face of the Mohammedan Hordes. These wrongs must be paid for in blood, that is true. But instead of blood spilled in the fury of detested combat between, let it be the blood of damned infidels that wipe away the hates of our generation. I am proposing that instead of fight each other, we fight together against the Mohammedans that so threaten us all. If after Righteous Combat as allies we see not a peaceful alternative, than truly our justifications for war are true. But if after spilling blood as comrades we no longer see the need for war, then let there not be war but peaceful resolution. As the Emperor of Byzantium and Patriarch of the Eastern Orthodox Church, I will be calling for a war against the Seljuks and the associated minor Islamic States. I am aware that the Pope in Rome has also called for a Crusade against the Ayyubids, and in the sake of Religious Solidarity you may desire to fight with them, but in the name Dacian Solidarity I also ask thee to fight alongside our forces.

Emperor Alexios Branas Komenos

To Sultan al-Malik al-Adil Sayf al-Din Abu-Bakr ibn Ayyub

Greetings Indeed. I was shocked to here from you, Lord of the Near East! For many a century our people have fought and fought well. The False Prophet in Rome does indeed stir feelings of malcontent in Europe against Byzantium. I am grateful indeed of your attacks on the hated Seljuks. As Emperor, I accept and match you reduction in Trade Tariffs and pray for a profitable and stable relationship. The Empire soon will move against the Seljuks in Anatolia, but have no fear for as long as I or my sons reign, no invasion of the Caliph by the Empire will occur. Though those damned Catholics might attempt an invasion.

From Emperor Alexios Branas Komenos

To Pope Innocent III

May God Bless Thine Life, Pope Innocent III> I write to you as an equal

From Emperor Alexios Branas Komenos

To the High Sovereigns of Bulgaria, Serbia, Zeta, Bosnia, Hungary, Galicia, Kiev, Pinsk, Celicia, Georgia, Chernigov, and Poland

From Emperor Alexios Branas Komenos

Theodosia
Byzantine Empire

Trebizond
Byzantine Empire

by **Pavlostani** » Mon Dec 01, 2014 2:07 pm

Cairo
Sultanate of the Ayyubids

al-Adil stared out on his balcony, anxiously waiting for the arrival of the Almohad cog that had been spotted in the distance.

"My Sultan, emissary from the Almohades in the room below. He told me to bring you this." Grand Vizier Ibrahim ibn Fatoukh handed al-Adil a letter.

Dear al-Malik al-Adil Sayf al-Din Abu-Bakr ibn Ayyub
It warms my heart to see fellow Moslem standing by me in this black hour. I have dispatched Abu Sa`id Uthman ibn Jam`i, a fine diplomat in our august caliphate to Cairo in hopes of securing matters of alliance and friendship.
God is Great,
an-Nāṣir li-dīn Allah Muḥammad ibn al-Manṣūr

al-Adil gripped the letter tightly.

"Well, take me to him." He said. The two walked down the stairs, where a handsome man sat serenely.

"Vizier Uthman?" al-Adil asked. Uthman opened his eyes.

"Greetings, Sultan. I am I am Abu Sa`id Uthman ibn Jam`i." He said.

"So, about the prospects of an alliance..." al-Adil started.

"We face conflict on two fronts; the Beni Ghaniya and the Iberians. The Caliph asks first for the pacification of the Beni Ghaniya, and second for assistance in Iberia." Uthman pointed at the large map hanging in the room.

"And in return?" al-Adil challenged.

"No Crusader ship will pass through Gibraltar." Uthman declared.

"Brave words, but can you really ensure that the Crusaders will be stopped at Gibraltar? Could a combined front of fleets from all across Christendom breach your lines?" al-Adil asked. Uthman nodded.

"It would require a hit on two fronts, most likely. The main Crusader threat from Gibraltar is the English, the rest could strike through the Mediterranean, so I would recommend maintaining naval forces in the Med around Jerusalem. Venice and Byzantium could pose a problem-" Uthman said when al-Adil raised his hand.

"I've dealt with the Byzantines." He said.

"Excellent. Venice's navy is still formidable, and Frankish ships could travel from southern Gaul. All of the Italian states are legitimate threats, if they struck our flotilla in the rear, it might break a hole and allow English ships passage." Uthman said.

"We can supply a contingent of ships to watch your rears and warn you if any Crusaders strike you from the east." al-Adil said.

"Reasonable. Now, for the matter of Beni Ghaniya...?" He asked.

"We can mobilize armies in Egypt over the course of the month and attack from the east while you strike in the west with Berber troops." al-Adil assured the emissary. He glanced at Fatoukh.

"Please, write the terms of this prospective alliance." He said.

Points for the Approval of the Almohad Caliph

As of the Sixth Day of Rajab in the century 598, the Caliphate of the Almohades and Sultanate of the Ayyubids declare themselves to be in a state of alliance. From this day to abrogation of the Treaty of Cairo or eternity, said nations swear to assist the other in times of war and peace, to trade freely and to display their everlasting friendship to the world. Therefore, specific terms shall be laid out.
Section 1
I. No state shall ever permit Crusader forces to harm the other without assistance.

II. No state shall ever assist Crusader forces to harm the other.

III. No state shall make binding agreements with Crusader forces that are detrimental to the other.

Section 2
I. No state shall ever levy a tariff on another by more than 30%.

II. No state shall ever detain merchants of another for reasons other than high crimes or misdemeanors, pestilence, espionage or violations of the Treaty of Cairo.

III. No state shall ever engage in acts of piracy or privateering against the other.

IV. No state shall ever place an embargo on the other.

V. No state shall ever sell the citizens of the other in a state of slavery.

VI. No state shall ever impress the sailors of the other.

VII. No state shall ever engage in any actions of economic aggression listed or unlisted in the Treaty of Cairo with the other.

Section 3

I. Fatima of Iberia and al-Kamil of Cairo shall be wedded to strengthen the bond between our peoples.

II. A permanent Almohad and Ayyubid naval presence shall be established at the Strait of Gibraltar.

III. The Ayyubids will enter the war against Beni Ghaniya for a minimum of two years or until capitulation.

IV. Ayyubid soldiers will assist the the opposition of the Iberian Reconquest.

V. Almohad soldiers will assist the opposition of the Crusaders.

VI. A combined privateer force of seagoing Berbers and Egyptians will be established to assist in non-official lethal force in the Mediterranean.

VII. The resulting alliance between Almohad and Ayyubid shall be referred to as the Cairo Pact.

Signed by Vizier Abu Sa`id Uthman ibn Jam`i of the Almohad Caliphate and Sultan al-Malik al-Adil Sayf al-Din Abu-Bakr ibn Ayyub of the Ayyubid Sultanate

"Please return this to Caliph an-Nasir for his approval." al-Adil requested. Uthman nodded respectfully and left.

by **The Seleucids (Ancient)** » Mon Dec 01, 2014 3:07 pm

Atabeg of Mosul

Northern Border
The tribal army was ready to strike out. After many talks between the tribal leaders they agreed to strike now, they wanted to prove themselves to Arslan Shah if only for their own safety.
The tribes where only going to target the Drtukids and the Moks. This was the most effective way they believed. They would burn the crops pillaged villages and if possible even cites. The tribes wanted to make sure that these two peoples of the north would endure a harsh winter with no food and no safety. Along the border there where five groups with a total of 1,800 men ready to pillage the north. The cavalry would rush to the north and pillage the lands there while the infantry was going to stay in the south for their piece of pillage.
Some rules had been established aswell, not only becouse of their faith, but also to increase the problems during the winter within these two states.
No woman, child or elderly man would be harmed and all men between 16 and 40 that surrendered would lose a hand.
Fields would be burned and other loot would be taken and sold in Mosul. These where the rules for the hunt, if one wouldn't follow them, he would be executed.
And so the tribal forces started their raids in the north.

It was only a matter of hours before the first village got burned down to the ground, men killed, children and woman screeming, it became a familiar sound from that day on. That first day meant the end of some 36 villages, and it turned out to be just a warming up for the tribes. At the end of the week, when they returned to Mosul to trade their goods they had already laid waste to some 500 villages and farms. From that first week they turned from simply tribes to one of the wealthiest communities in Mosul, bringing in more goods every few days, all stolen from the north.
They found out however that these northern states had caught up with them. The tribes decided to pull back all infantry that raided the south. the only raiders left would be cavalry, and the groups in which they rode would be increased to 350, leaving only one group per norther state left.
With this however they managed to keep themselves ahead of these northern armies that tried to hunt them down. For now the raids continued and the Drtukids and the Moks where going to get a heavy winter.

Arab Tribal lands
Mas'ud II had nearly finished his goal. The safezone had been established successfull and 6 of the 15 remaining tribes had already been slaughtered by his men in the past two weeks. With only 9 tribes to go it became an easy pick for Mas'ud II. The 1,000 men escort had returned and so the hunt began once more. This time however was quiet different. As they marched south a scout reached them, "My lord, the tribes are gathering for an attack!"
"Insha'Allah we will defeat them!" Mas'ud II replied as he got all exited. He was sick and tired of this desert land, now that the tribes gathered it became much more easier to defeat them at once.

For a few days the two armies marched towards eachother, finally meeting just outside of the Arabian Desert. Prayers where held on both sides before the battle, and upon their completion they got themselves ready.
Mas'ud II had his infantry to march on, keeping cavalry on the flanks. His cavalry was far superior and larger then that one of the enemy and so he did not expect much trouble.
Once the actuall fights started it became a chaos, death, pain and blood was seen everywhere. The battle didn't took long. Once the tribal cavalry was defeated and the cavalry of Mosul smashed into the flanks of the tribes they soon started to run.
Mas'ud and the cavalry forces hunted down most the fleeing tribal soldiers, making sure they did not get a chance to regroup into a proper force.
Mas'ud was ready to go home, he left behind 500 men in the area to make sure it stayed safe.

by **Traders Union** » Mon Dec 01, 2014 5:41 pm

Khan's personal tent, Sarai
Danylo looked around his tent. When he first obtained this old tent, it was...bare to say the least. Now it was decorated with the spoils of war. Weapons, artifacts and trinkets. His favorite was a small rock given to him by a crazy shaman in the far east. It was supposed to stop aging, or something. Focusing his attention back to the scrolls on his desk. Picking one up at random, he read it.

Allowing himself a quick laugh, Danylo thought to himself that perhaps the soldiers were getting a bit..bloodthirsty. A problem for another time he thought. The next scroll he read contained a less morbid version of the same thing. The Goths had been crushed. Their one small army was caught and crushed. A few fools fought on, under the illusion that they could free their lands. Danylo got a good laugh out of that. He quickly wrote a letter to the master of trade to establish trade with Anatolia. More money never hurt anyone.
He now fetched a larger parchment and his personal map. Peering over it, he decided on their next target. Their neighbors the Khaganate. After writing what felt like a mountain load of parchments, his plan came together. Minimal forces would be kept in the West while the rest began the trek back East. Otarbai was ordered to move especially quickly to oversee the handling of troop movements and enforce Danylo's orders. The eastern chiefs were ordered to raise their riders. Along with Danylo's personal riders and the returning forces, around eighty thousand men would partake in the invasion. Their orders are to take as much as possible before the winter came. If the war would be over before then, so be it. While he was writing the orders, Danylo thought to himself how much easier it would be if the chiefs did not have such large amounts of men loyal to them. When Danylo finished the orders, he summonsed nearly twenty riders to take his orders to the chiefs.
Once the riders departed, he sat back down and thought for hours. Eventually he came up with a list of military overhauls to
make.
1. Increase the size of his personal riders
2. Somehow take away men from the chiefs
3. Create military divisions of the Cuman lands
4. Create armies for each division
5. Establish mustering fields in major areas of population
6. Create a bureaucracy to oversee this all
7. Research new technologies for the army
8. Promote on merit, not tribal ties
9. Possibly establish regular periods for soldiers to be active
10. Once these reforms are made, test them out on their neighbors
Finishing his list, Danylo folded it up and put it in his personal chest. If the chiefs saw the list it would not be pretty. Turning his mind towards how well the shaman tents were doing, Danylo thought about how religion was managed. Most Cumans were shamanists or animists. Christians and Muslims existed in their land also. Luckily for them, the Cumans were a tolerant people. No one religion was deemed the state religion, allowing for great freedoms religiously for people. Danylo thought to mention this anytime a diplomat arrived or at the next council meeting.
Samarkand, Market district. A few days afterwards
Riders thundered by the ancient city. Men were riding Eastward everyday now. Residents heard their horses all day and night. Business for the taverns and rest tents was booming. Oddly enough, foreigners appeared in the market today. They were apparently searching for the governor. Word spread quickly in the town. By sundown, crowds lined the governors house. After the foreigners were seen entering and not leaving for hours, rumors spread of them being assassins or spies that were caught. When they exited, smiling and talking with the governor everyone was confused. These men were wandering Chinese inventors. They had come to Samarkand, knowing its large population and area to experiment in. The governor had allowed them to stay on one condition. They were watched at all times by guards and had to report any inventions or breakthroughs immediately to the governor.
Former Goth lands
A small sailing vessel slipped out onto the Black sea. A guard of twenty men escorted a Cuman trader on his mission to Anatolia to establish trade deals. Landfall was expected in a few days, given good weather.

by **Kargintina** » Mon Dec 01, 2014 7:02 pm

Second Bulgarian Empire
Второ българско царство
Tarnovo, Second Bulgarian Empire
Tsar Kayolan awoke, barely being to sleep the night before. His army had finally gathered outside the city of Tarnovo, but he was unsure if he wished to truly strike the Hungarians. He finally came up with an idea shortly before he had fallen asleep the night before, he would write to the Cumans to see if he could come to the aid of Bulgaria in the event of war with Hungary and Byzantium.

To: Khan Danylo Kobiakovych of the great Cuman Khanate
From: Tsar Ivan II Kayolan Asen of the Second Bulgarian Empire
We are truly turbulent of a Hungary's recent claiming of the Kingdom of Serbia, but are weary of war. We only recently brought defeat upon the acursed Byzantines to the south, and know that they would gladly come to the aid of the Hungarians in the event that we go to war with the Hungarians. We know that you would gladly gain control of the Byzantine lands bordering Gothia, which are remote from their wretched Empire. We wish to know if you would come to our aid in a war against these two countries if it where to happen. As you know, my very Tsarita is of Cuman blood, and our nations share a strong relationship that I wish to keep. We are also are glad you brought end to the pretenders along the Volga who dared to use our name.

Tsar Kayolan handed the letter to his messenger, who ran off to deliver it to the Khan of the seemingly far off land. He looked over at his Tsarita, still asleep in their bed. He knew the Cumans would not abandon her, and once again laid down on his bed, somewhat releaved that he still had an ally, despite how different their countries where.

Later that day he went out to the field where his Velik Voivoda was waiting for him in a tent. The Tsar looked at a map of the greater Balkan area that the Velik Voivoda had laid out. The pointed towards Thrace, in the event that war broke out, the first area struck would be Thrace, to attempt to possibly open up a window to the Byzantine capital of Constantinople.

Outside soldiers where talking, fake fighting with wooden swords, and firing bows at targets. Some where even gathered with spears practicing a phalanx type movement. Near the edge of the camp, he saw men on horseback, lightly armored and moving fast. He knew the mountains at the southern border well, so perhaps they would prove quite useful.

by **Estva** » Mon Dec 01, 2014 8:10 pm

Buda, The Kingdom of Hungary
The Royal Palace

Emeric smiled with his crooked, yellow teeth.

The Byzantines had welcomed his proposal of alliance, and advocated an attack upon the infidel in the east. The Bulgarians, no doubt fearful of facing two hostile power, would never attack Hungary at this stage.

Furthermore, Emeric's brother-in-law in Bohemia had called upon the royal alliance formed by his sister, Constance. Emeric was honor-bound to flock to Bohemia's banner, and considering Moravia was right on the Hungarian border, he could take direct action.

Calling for yet more ink and parchment, he began to make his response.

To my beloved brother-in-law and fellow Catholic, Ottokar, King of Bohemia,

Of course I shall honor our alliance! Our bond is a strong one, that of the Hungarians and Bohemians. It is in our mutual interest to see Moravia, your rightful territory, returned to your just and zealous rule. I shall call upon a force of men near the Moravian border to be ready in the name of the King, and the moment you declare war, I can justify calling upon my vassals to defeat the Moravian foes.

I wish you well on the battlefied, as well as the throne, brother.

Sincerely,
Emeric, King of Hungary and servant of our lord Jesus Christ.

After the letter was given to the scribes for translation into the language of the Bohemians, he then gave the order for the royal garrisons in the north to prepare for war and being marching to the Moravian border. Moravia would doubtlessly be suspicious, but what could they do about it? They would face a two-pronged invasion force, and as the Bohemian king had rightful claim to the lands, there would be no foreign intervention.

Emeric, having yet another coughing fit, wheezily asked for the letter from the Byzantine emperor to be brought forward to hims for a second read. The Pope had already asked all faithful Catholics to fight the infidel in the East and protect the Christian crusader states - a de facto crusade. This lined up very nicely with the Byzantine Emperor's request, as the Seljuks were one of many threats to the Crusader. Emeric gave the order to begin preparing a navy and hiring sailors for a fleet, a lengthy process, so that it would be prepared as soon as the Bohemian matter was settled.

Emeric then made sure to send a reply to the Emperor.

To Emperor Alexios Branas Komenos, One True Emperor of the Roman Empire,

I gladly accept your proposition! Indeed, the brothers of Christ must unite no matter their differences against those who would dare oppose the lord's will. I have already issued proclamations to prepare a fleet to transport crusading forces to the East, to join up with fellow Catholics in the Holy Land to fight in the name of Christ. This will unfortunately take some time, but rest assured that the Christian brotherhood we share shall remain triumphant against the infidel.

Sincerly,
Emeric, King of Hungary and servant of our lord Jesus Christ.

by **Alleniana** » Tue Dec 02, 2014 1:57 am

To His Holiness, the Pope, Vicar of Christ, Bishop of Rome, Head of the Most Catholic Church on Earth, et cetera,

We can but thank you most greatly for all your wisdom and guidance, and are glad to be able to express our joy at your decision. Truly, your judgement has done much good for us, and with a great influx of earthly wealth to be expected from the prosperity eventuating in Pisa, we hope to be able to not only to finish the construction of our cathedral bell-tower, perhaps even to repair its current tilt, to further build our baptistery, and of course, to donate a great deal to the Church as well. In fact, we would even be honoured to invite you to open several new churches on the islands once they are secured, as a great deal more wealth will be dedicated to the church once it is steered away from the conflict that has dominated for so long. The Corsica et Sardinia Bull is much appreciated, and we will endeavour to put it into effect as soon as possible.

Furthermore, with regards to the Byzantines, we can only praise your wisdom in offering to host negotiations. Though we are doubtful of whether they shall be sensible enough to make an decent agreement, the idea in itself is excellent and we do not doubt that Papal wisdom will prevail at them. We will stall our fleet, but we shall keep it ready, for should negotiations break down, the very way of life of Pisa is threatened by their lengthening embargo upon our rights. We already stand to take huge losses, but indeed, we shall not fight until it is unavoidable.

On the whole, we have only gratefulness for you, holy father, and look forward to a reply; a time as soon as possible to be booked for talks would be preferable, and we await that detail along with any response you might see fit to give. Thanks, once again, and perhaps our next words shall be in person in Rome.

Consul Vittorio di Pisa

To King Philip II Augustus of France,

Your offer has intrigued us greatly, and indeed, we would be most willing to make a loan to the Kingdom of France for mercenaries. 30,000 livres tournais is a sum well within our capacity to lend, and certainly, we would be willing to do so for such a noble purpose as retaking one's rightful lands. One problem that exists however is the lack of collateral; while we would like to, as a friend to all Christians, it is impossible to loan any sizeable amount of money without some kind of collateral agreed upon before the loan is made. Land, which is possibly the easiest commodity to use as collateral, is not a viable option here due to our distance. In order that you might organise collateral material more efficiently and easily, and make faster agreement, we plan to send several of our representatives via horse through the Swiss lands, who will have the authority to sign required agreements and documents.

Furthermore, we would also hope to acquire a slight commission; though, of course, usury is not to be tolerated, the trouble of us lending money to such a distant nation as France would merit some small beneficial sum. We would suggest 2,500 livres to be paid back in addition to the 30,000 within six years, if this is a suitable amount to you. Similar to the discounts of some northern merchants you may be familiar with, it would be a much appreciated boon to the entire operation.

We will discuss and clear up all of this via the representatives we have dispatched, who should be able to better explain and define the commission, length of loan, method of payment, collateral, and more. We look forward to doing business with you, and inform you that our representatives should arrive in around a month. We hope that they will be satisfactorily knowledgeable and able, and thus conclude with a wish for good health to you.

Consul Vittorio di Pisa

by **Finland SSR** » Tue Dec 02, 2014 3:11 am

Duchy of Lithuania

Major events have happened in the four months that have passed since the meeting of the Dukes in Kernavė. Žvelgutis left our world for the lands of Velinas. Lithuania was without a leader. There were two major factions, or major players in the nation - Daumantas, ruler of most of the West, and Ryngold, who held most of the core lands of Lithuania, and also the richest and the most populous ones. They both were rivals for domination in the nation, and both wanted to rule to get rid of their opponent. The minor dukes did not want to anger one of them, so they went for a third candidate - Daugirutis, a medium duke near Kernavė.

Daugirutis did not get to rule Lithuania for long. After an unsuccessful attempt at a raid in Polotsk, he caught an arrow to the neck and died. Ryngold took advantage of the situation. While Daumantas was busy fighting a small rebellion in his newly conquered lands, Ryngold quickly gathered the dukes, and through bribes, pleasing and threats, was elected the new Duke of Lithuania.

This had major repercussions. A few weeks later, Daumantas returned, and he immediately sent an objection, claiming that the elections were rigged and that it was invalid because he did not participate. Ryngold rejected the claims and threatened to use military force if Daumantas continues his campaigning against his rule. Instead of giving up, Daumantas, along with his supporters the Ruškaičiai family, declared a rebellion against Ryngold's rule, claiming himself as the true Duke of Lithuania. The loyalists and the rebels both raised all of their their armies, and were ready to fight a long and hard war for the Duke's Cap.

This looked like the beginning of a long and bloody struggle.

by **Aileach** » Tue Dec 02, 2014 12:47 pm

The Kingdom of Aileach
An Ríocht na Aileach

The young chief of the Conaing clan climbed the steps of the wall two at a time on account of his long legs. The footholds were narrow, and rather than hidden and spiraled within the wall itself they were open to the elements on the inner perimeter. Atop the walls of the fort one could see for miles and miles. To Lough Súilí and the shores beyond to the west, the valley of the Fheabhail to the east and every green rolling hill in between. At well over two hundred feet in the air, the wind blew hard and cold. Chonchobhar could only be thankful that the grey skies above had not opened for the rains yet.

Adgar was waiting for him at the top with his Tanaiste Fiacra MacDochartaigh stood beside him, their shoulders just inches from touching. They had their brataí well wrapped around them, though the excess fabric still ruffled and tugged in the wind. They were easily distinguishable, even with their backs turned. The King stood a solid half-foot above his successor, and wore his thick black mane in a single braid that fell between his shoulder blades. Fiacra's on the other hand was kept a length shorter, fair, unbound and blowing. He seemed to sense the Chieftain's arrival, and turned to greet him.

"Ah, Chief Conaing." He had just about gotten the words muttered out before the King turned to speak in his own authoritative voice. Despite the blowing of the wind in their ears there was no strain to hear his words.

"Chonchobhar, good to see you, my friend." Ardgar turned his attention back to the sights beyond. He motioned with a hand for the young Chieftain to stand at his side. "Tell me, this raiding ban against Connacht and Munster, what is your thoughts on the matter? I know some of the other Chiefs have been vocal against it.""

Chonchobhar hesitated. Was this a trap? Did he want him to say that it was an 'oh so wise decision'? No, the King was not a man who would have honeyed words poured into his ears. He didn't want lies. "Without the raids, some of the clann coffers will be low. Though I am sure there are good reasons behind such a move, mo Rí."

The King smiled, barely, but the hint was there. "Quite true, dear Chonchobhar. I wish to make friends of them."

Since Fiacra had been selected as Tanaiste, securing his future position as King, Clann Dochartaigh had to select a new Chief for itself. In doing this, all the septs and branches of the Clann were to meet. A gathering of minor Chieftains and esteemed members, each one vying for the others' vote. In the eyes of the Irish it was the best system of rule to grace the earth. What good is a man's blood if his wits are lacking? What does it matter what cock you flew out of if your sword arm is thin as a chick's leg? No. The only way to ensure the best man got the job, was to select the best man for the job.

That was how Rónán secured his position as Chief, seventeen years ago, not long after King Ardgar was crowned inside the walls of 'An Grianan'. Seventeen years was a long time, and the new Dochartaigh Chief was now the old Dochartaigh Chief, for he was a man near fifty-eight. At forty he could have danced around any man half his age, and cut down any man twice his size. Long times of peace brought a softness to his belly, rust to his joints and comfort to his liking.

Comfort was the last thing he would know while waiting for this damn ship to arrive. The rain pelted sideways across the docks, bringing ocean spray and salt air to batter at the face. The rider had come almost two hours ago from the headland, rushing south at the appearance of a single Scottish ship. Rónán had been foretold of the arrival, and was commanded by the King himself to see that the guest was treated well. A simple task made even simpler for an Irishman, for hospitality was a trait of the country.

At long last the ship appeared from the dense rains. As she was pulled to the quay and tied down, Rónán led out his modest greeting party of guardsmen, servants and retainers to meet the Scottish Earl of Arran.

by **Traders Union** » Tue Dec 02, 2014 2:54 pm

Khaganate border town
Otarbai decided he hated this way off fighting. All waiting and no fighting. A few hours earlier his men descended on the Khaganate. After raiding and pillage the small villages near this town, his men formed a ring around the city. They then built a low set of walls with watchtowers. A contraption called a catapult was being built by his men. They would then use this to break down the towns wall and then swarm in.
It had been around three or four hours now and the catapult was finished. The device was wheeled up and began firing. The walls should fall in an hour or two, is what the men who made the device were claiming.
The bulk of the Cuman forces were waiting just beyond the town. The plan was to have smaller parties find the Khaganate forces and trick them into following them back to the town. Seeing only the force besieging the town, the Khaganate forces should attack what they see as a numerically smaller force. They would then be taken by surprise when the massive Cuman army descended on them. At least that was the plan.
Sarai
Reforms were underway. Already the Cuman lands were being divided into divisions. Currently there is only three large divisions. One for the West, one for the East and one for the rest. Reforms in the army is also underway. Banner armies of soldiers in service for rounds of three years are being created. Eventually there will be a grand total of eight banners. They would be the following:
In the West

1. Yellow Banner, headquartered in Crimea 2. Silver Banner, headquartered in the former Bulgarian lands 3. Blue Banner, headquartered in Ukraine. Central Cuman lands

1. Khan's Banner, headquartered in Sarai 2. Red Banner, headquartered on the Caucuses borderNo plans exist currently for the eastern banners.

A message for the Byzantine king has also been drafted. It has been sent by a vessel to Constantinople

Khan Danylo, Khan of the Cuman Khanate
Greetings my neighbors. I have long respected the way your kingdom is run. Your empire is a example of strength for others to follow. It has always been my intentions to establish trade between our peoples. Geographic constraints has made an attempts difficult. We no longer face these constraints. With my recent conquests in Crimea, we now share both a sea route over the Black Sea and holding on Crimea. Now is the best time possible to have trade exist between our people. I propose we establish regular patterns of trade between us, starting as soon as possible. Each of us has resources that the others desire. I plan to reform my forces but lack some resources, such as metals, necessary for this. We have resources from the East and furs that we are willing to part with. Perhaps we can exchange these things? I have an ambassador heading to Constantinople by boat to write the official document recognizing our trade.

With the highest esteem for your grand empire,
Khan Danylo I of the Cuman Khanate

In Samarkand, a breakthrough in metallurgy has occurred. Lighter and more durable metal is now available for the Khanate.

by **Fralinia** » Tue Dec 02, 2014 4:19 pm

Central Lübeck, Baltic Coast, Early August, 1202

A bolt struck the wall near a band of running soldiers, but they charged ahead anyway, soon skewering the poor crossbowman that had fired it and then fell back to the main force. Behind them, the troops of Christopher, Duke of Jutland, came marching up the streets, shields up and spears at the ready. They were mere yards from capturing the last of the city, but the defenders refused to give them an inch for free, heroically offering brutal and suicidal resistance, with arrows awaiting the Danes around every corner and bands of skirmishers wedging themselves between the Danish formations, wreaking havoc before being subdued. Plenty had surrendered, with the camps outside the city holding some dozens of prisoners, but for the most part, Lübeck simply seemed determined not to fall.

It hadn't been easy to get so far as the Danes did. After leaving Danish shores, Valdemar had landed south of the city and then, in one fell swoop, enveloped the coastal town, raided the few surrounding fiefs for supplies, and threatened the local nobles with death or compliance. Naturally, the city had settled in for a siege, but Valdemar knew that he had neither the resources nor the time for an extended capmaign. Instead, he had made for the weakest section of the city's walls, that directly opposite the main gate, and undermined them, eventually caving in a hole some yards wide. Heavy resistance had met the invaders, but they chose to remain outside the walls, only entering under cover of darkness when the soldiers inside were tired, hungry, and had trouble seeing them. Through the night, small parties of warriors had crept in and torn the enemy lines to shreds, eventually leaving the gap open to actual attack.

That had been a few hours ago. Now, the city was largely intact, and was nearly in the King's possession. If only they would surrender...

Five hours later, Guild Hall of Lübeck

Valdemar sat in front of a small panel of nobles, guildmasters, and wealthy merchants. The city had fallen, and his lords had rounded up the local aristocracy for a brief meeting with the King. He was now setting in place his plan for the future of the city.

"Sirs, I have no intent of shutting down you trade." he began. "I do not wish to cease your operations, close your harbor, terrorize you shipping, or even to replace you with nobles of my own. All I request of you is that, in simple terms, you pay my taxes. Quite easy. You will still have the ability to select your own leaders and enforce your own laws, regulate your own commerce, and you will receive the benefits of defense from my soldiers and army. In other words, you will be placed under suzerainty of the throne."

Some disagreement was to be had over this, and there was debate and demands for release, but for the most part, the nobles seemed happy to retain their power. It would work, Valdemar's strategy. Once he had the noble's compliance, then he could tighten the reins on their duties.

Afterwords, he met with his advisors and war council at his camp outside the city walls. Almost 700 Danes lay dead, and some hundreds wounded were being treated in the streets or in the camps. It would be a day or so before the army was on it's feet, but the King felt confident that he could leave for Wismar. Rostock, however, seemed distant: the harvest was nearly on at home and it would be time for his troops to return and reap the fruits of the earth. But Wismar... Wismar would fall like the petty town that it was.

1202-The Reborn World-IC

Bohemia

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