History of Nations - AH RP [IC]

[History Series Admin]

And so a new day shall rise and set upon the empires of the world. While it is but a name, but an empty word written upon paper or clay or what have you in this primitive time, this is the year 0 CE. It is, as people would have it, a new era, and in this era, it is as people will have it that things go. Human nations, as those before it, would break the boundaries from which they reside to seek out the world that awaits them, now, ever in expansion, ever in advancement. Empires lurk in the distant future, harbingers of greater ideals and yet worse ways of humanity. But not too far away from these eternal paradises lays the ash heap of history with its fallen nations and collapsed civilizations. For no nation shall last for ever, and though one may strive, nothing is eternal. How long will your people last?

---

Welcome to the IC of the History of Nations RP. Please do not take any OOC into IC, and don't post here until your app has been accepted in the OOC. Have fun!

[Alleniana]

Birkon Cove, Rasgora, Confederation of Kanensos
"Yes, yes, don't worry about it. Sword or spear, I don't mind."
The stubby yellow-toothed grinning man who appeared to be captain waved dismissively and almost waddled away. His jovial, gregarious attitude seemed to calm those nervous about the trip, and he seemed easygoing enough; the guard with only a spear hadn't had any trouble explaining his predicament. His passengers generally warmed towards him. Many continued to be nervous, though, and for good reason.

The lot of them, heading off to Manleor, a soon-to-be town that was at the moment effectively a palisade, were colonists. Kanensos had a colonial tradition, with many expeditions that had resulted in independent states, the most notable and extant ones to the northeast and west. This lot was no different, and though they were heading to a land much nearer, and for more strategic reasons than the colonial expeditions of old, it was still no less daunting to effectively leave the civilised world and start a new life in what appeared a land of barbarians and wilderness, even if they were able to return.

It was something that was recognised, though, and it certainly provided them with chances; many restless young men, or those who had obligations they wanted to leave behind, or even opportunistic merchants. They could always come back if it didn't suit them, and it was much easier to make a living in the colonies, always with an abundance of resources and a lack of manpower. Many went there to work for a period to earn money, and many even moved to escape the army; areas would generally be recognised as colonial ones, and the conscripting system granting exemptions to their inhabitants, with the only exception being war taxes like those applied to the entire populace, sans soldiers. There was generally not a great shortage of people to go out and settle, and when this was one of the only colonies that had been proposed for a long time, and not only that, but sponsored and encouraged by the government, it was even easier to find people for this trip.

It did venture into previously untouched lands, though, and trade with the mainlanders in the region didn't reach deep into the interior; that was often left to traders further east or north. A land thickly forested with isles, and over the seas from the homeland, it would not be any easy feat, though granted that no colonies were. The people on the ship knew that it was a challenge they were up for, but one that would reward. But, of course, nervousness remained.

The captain appeared again, ruddy cheeks and twinkling eyes as always. His accented, though loud and worn voice rang out across the deck, and the passengers, the audience to this great journey from this great island bastion of Kanensian civilisation, braced themselves.

[Galnius]

-Post in progress-

[Finland SSR]

The Almocans

The sun set once again above Tattihuakan, and the people were relieved. Alhasa allowed them to live one more day. In the early morning, a fire was lit in the Town Square and the people danced around it, thankful to the Clan for letting them to stay alive.

Alsithu of Itzalquetlo watched over the town. Over 4,000 people were living in this city. As the morning ceremony ended, the people went back to the fields, working hard with the stone tools they had to ready the land for planting corn. It had been 7 ears since the day when Alsithu started slowly gathering the power in his hands. Born from a noble family in the northern lands of Itzalquetlo, he quickly became a member of the Elders and a leader of his tribe. He slowly started uniting the other tribes of the Almocans under his wing, some with gifts or diplomatic alliances, others with force.

Alsithu I

The city of Tattihuakan, as the biggest city, holy site and political center of the Almocans, was left out for a while, but even it was not safe. Even though the Elders had the main uniting power of the tribes, they did not control much, they did not even have an army. One day, an army of 2,000 soldiers suddenly entered the city through the northern gate. They were marching orderly, with no damage to the buildings and people around them. They were led by Alsithu. The armies stopped near the Tribal Council, and Alsithu entered it with a group of soldiers.

"Ah, Alsithu. We have heard about your attack on the city and the tribes nearby. Are you here to surrender?"

"You know, Elders, that the only reason of your power is the agreement of the Almocan people. However, the Almocans have a new leader. Me."

"What does all of this mean?"

"You no longer hold any power. This city is taken over by me."

--------

Alsithu became the first Chief of Almocans. He started calling himself "Alsithu Ahuatl", with "Ahuatl" meaning "leader" in Almocan. Thus, he founded the Ahuatl dynasty.

Alsithu made many moves on forming the Almocan state. He started reforming the religion, and instead of tribal dances and sacrifices done by the people, the new shaman caste took over the religious ideals. He also made moves on separating religion and politics, claiming that "Alhasa created us, but he did not create our nation".

In other points, he made moves on reforming the whole political structure. The Elders were disbanded, and instead Alsithu was ruling with a small group of advisors. The other tribes wee led by their own leaders, who were under direct control of the Chief.

[Relikai]

The Capital, Linjia, and its Palace

Lin Guo stood alone, looking out of his Tower. The Tower of Pearls.

The weather isn't good, he noticed. It has been like this for the past six days, with no sign of abating.

Langchao

Waves lapped over the banks, the unstoppable force of nature, the boon and bane of Man. The flooding came in fast, displaying nature's rage, wiping flimsy structures and slamming against the stone embarkments. His rage.

Pilihuo

Flashes of lightning covered the Capital in a sadistic light show, keeping the occupants in their secure homes, but teasing them with mighty flashes, as if the Gods themselves dare the puny humans to look up into the sky as they looked down. As He looked down.

Tian Lei

The crashing sounds pierced the air, shattering mental barriers and causing nerves to feel the energy of thunder. Multiple crashes came in, unrelenting, causing babies to cry, children to huddle around their parents, parents to sigh in dismay.


The three instruments. His three instruments of the elements.



Tian Lei Armoured Cavalry patrolling in the North


After the Conquest of the North, the Lin Army has returned to their patrol and garrison duties, while a sizable force remained North to defend against future threats. The South remained unknown, however, with reports of a radical nation being birthed from religious zealots, causing pain and chaos in the name of their deity. Lin Guo pondered over this for days, but decided, no. The Dynasty is too young, in its infancy, to take on other powers. Perhaps when his son takes over, the South may live the culture of the Linguoren. For now, the West remained tempting. Into the mountains, ZhengDu (Cheng Du) and AnZhong (Han Zhong), cities which warred against the old Qin, remained strong in rebel hands.

The East provides naval capabilities, the North provides superior horses, the Central Plains provide the manpower. The economy is recovering, and the trade remained strong with the Far West. If War is to occur, the Dynasty will be ready. His name spoke for himself. LinGuo (Lin-Country) will be strong, and when he goes, it will only grow stronger.

[Adurnak]

The Kingdom of Karthellia

(I know the flag is from Rome II)

The Imperial Capital City Tuteare was bustling as usual as the fishing and trading industry boomed and the money practically sailed up the river from the coast where a great many settlements lay. And what a sight the capital was; a beautiful layered city that held the foothills of the great mountains to it's rear; with the great plain of southern Ekralia (Italia) stretching out before it. In the last century for the few miles that it was close to the capital, the river had been dredged up and made over 50 meters wider to accommodate for any extra ships that came up river to trade with the Karthelli people (though they were still mostly restricted to smaller, shallower drafted vessels.

As he looked out over his kingdom King Balendin was content with what he saw in his capital; it was prosperous and well defended by the fortified mountain cities to the north. But there was a few concerns that he did have though; multiple nations lay about his own, and so he quickly dispatched several diplomats far and wide. North through the mountains, south and west the the large islands in those directions, and to the large nation on the large landmass beyond the large southern island (I.e. diplomats sent to Latium, Sicily, where the Etruscan league is, and not-Carthage). This was mostly done using smaller ships rather than the bigger triremes and Quadremes of the professional navy.

The other thing was that with the coastal settlements growing exponentially the cities were quickly growing over crowded. With this in mind the peoples assembly decided to take a drastic action to which the king reluctantly agreed with; volunteers as well as others suffering from the overcrowding were to be sent abroad across the calm sea (Adriatic) to start up new settlements north of the current lands across the sea. This would serve the purpose of dealing with the overcrowding problem whilst increasing the potential economic potential of the kingdom, and making inter-trade and transit between the kingdoms domains safer. This further colonization would take months to complete.

[Rephesus]

Kingdom of Baghana

[WIP}

[Sasutary Island]

East of Kami Borders
With the Harvest Season beginning, Shogun Kamikaga Mitsubishi saw that the time was ripe for conquest. Without informing his council, the power-hungry Shogun lead his standing army out of Kyoto, leaving a note behind that informed the ministers that he would be away 'on a-bit of a shopping trip'. His marauding band terrorized the locals, those who were smart enough decided to assimilate into the Shogunate while the reckless defied and died. Ever since previous conquests of the Shogunate ended 14 years ago, most of the Hill tribes in the surrounding area have moved away to the north or down into Shikoku. Because of this, the Shogunate army met little resistance.

Soon enough, after 1 year of constant conquest, the borders of Kami have expanded to include all of Honshu and Kyushu. However, the tribes of Shikoku have costed the lives of more than was expected for a 'brief pop to the shops' and not a single foot of Shikoku has been conquered by the Shogun. Not wanting to lose any more men, Kamikaga Mitsubishi thought of a diplomatic way to solve the conflict. He wrote this down on a scroll of bamboo and sent a copy to all Shikoku tribe leaders.
Map

Enough of spilling the blood of your cousins. If you give up your land to us, we promise you and your family safe passage to the islands of Ryuku, or if you wish, to assimilate into our Nation. We promise not to desecrate your ancestors' graves and respect your beliefs from this moment on if you agree to this proposal. We shall ensure that in the future, we will no longer disturb I am sure you would act in the best interests of your family.
The Honourable,
Shogun Kamikaga Mitsubishi

The war left the commoners, however, deprived of working infrastructure as much of the state's treasury was diverted to the war effort. Due to the fact that men had been enlisted into the army, the women now had to harvest the crops and for that year, 5 000 tonnes more grain had been imported, an increase of 300%.

Somewhere in the Yellow Sea
As the mist worsened visibility, Foreign Minister Amikaga Shukomitsu strained his eyes to catch a single glimpse of anything. He had been tasked by the Shogun to establish relations with the Lin Dynasty, whose traders have for years graced Kami's shores. Now it was time for a more formal meeting and Amikaga was dispatched on the Shogun's own Kami Maru. The decks and sides of the ship had been cleaned before the voyage to provide the Lin's with a positive idea of them. Then, a small light appeared, then two, then the whole coastline was lighted up. They were 12 km from the coast and the captain steered towards it. They landed at what is irl Weihao, as they docked up, a large crowd of commoners were already there, they were clearly impressed by the size of the Kami Maru.

Amikaga, who had learnt Lin tongue for 12 years, got off the ship. A man in clearly better clothes than the crowd stepped forward, and introduced himself as the Head of the Joint. Amikaga took out a bamboo scroll and handed it to the Head, and announced in pure Lin.


To all the people of Lin, I, Amikaga Shukomitsu, have arrived in your wonderful Empire to establish relations between your celestial Empire and the Kami Shogunate, where I hail from. Tell me dear sir, where might the Celestial Emperor be resided at. We would appreciate any help we could find.



Just as he said it, the boat crew unloaded various treasures from the Kami Maru, soem of which include the Shogun's own kamimata, guilded with gold and silver and the handle made of Amber, gold, silver, Incense, and a Kami-styled armour plate (Shogun Style) made of Kami Steel.

[Tuub]

City-State of Masqat
0 - 10 CE
Masqat, a city of wealth, trade and culture. A long time ago tribes constructed this city for wealth and protection, they did not know how successful the city would become. While some of those tribes vanished in time, others remained and kept the tradition of governing the city together. Now the time has arrived in which the city has become an active state.

1st Intro
Trade was the pride of Masqat, flowing in and out every day. It made the city rich and powerful which on their turn brought stability and peace.
The trade in Masqat was free of charge, though ships had to pay a tax for taking up space in the prot. All sorts of trade had been seen, from stones to food to jewelry, it was all welcome in the city. Tribes gathered here to sell the products that they made and foreign people bought then while selling their own goods. The City of Masqat even appointed someone special to look over the trade going on in Masqat. His name was Bash, an old fisherman who had lived his whole life in Masqat and knew all corners of it. The perfect man for the job most would say. Concerning the trade there where strict rules to keep all items at a fair price while keeping a profit in mind. The most important reason why people came to Masqat for trade was becouse of its great location. The port had its own natural bay that kept away the rough sea and welcomed the calm waters. Besides that the city was surrounded by large hills, keeping away curious people who brought no goods to the city. Behind those hills where the lands of the Tribes. Most tribes relied on Masqat for their income and food while others just visited once a while to obtain some new stuff. Masqat was formed by tribes, 18 tribes to be exact. From Religion to language and to culture, its all related to those tribes that started it. Currently only 8 of those tribes survived. They remain in the council of the city untill today. Besdides the 8 tribes that founded the city, another 16 tribes have become dependent on the city since its foundation. Most of these tribes live in the far away corners of the city-states influence.

Council of Masqat
The city was running good as usuall, however some council members where afraid that the city couldn't grow much more, and therefor would come to a halt, something they did not want.
They had discussed this issue many times without coming to a solution. The main reason for this was that nobody knew how they could expand the city.
That all changed at a meeting in an early morning.
Abdi Damji, a young man who represented one of the tribes came in and asked permission to speak first.
"Noble councilmen, as you may know, we have discussed the issue around the expension of the city many times, and all times we ended up empty handed. I have thought about this for a long time and i cannot see how it could go wrong. I propose we expand in the way like our forfathers did a long time ago."
"You want us to build a new city?"
"Indeed council member Aziz, perhaps even two."
"And how do you plan to do that then? we can barely afford the construction of one city, let alone two."
"Like i said Aziz, we do it like our forfathers. We can contact local tribes in the area who can build a city which we will fund."
"I'm sorry to interrupt this, but wouldn't this be bad for Masqat? having another city doesn't seem equal to grow in my view."
"Counci man Abdur, the point is not to expand Masqat itself, but to expand ourselfs. What we need to grow are people. People do not come by their own, we have to go to them. If we build cities, simular ones like Masqat, new people will come to them and they will become dependent on our cities. Tribes fight amonst eachother, but as seen with Masqat, our tribes haven't fought for decades. Masqat is that thing that brings us together. If we offer other tribes the same, we may see the day that tribes can live along one another and eventually those tribes from far away will visit Masqat. Aslong as Masqat stays a proper trading city the people will come."

And so the decision was made to construct two cities in their sphere of influence. Nearly 2 years of exploration and discussions with tribes passed before a plan was set. Two cities would be build on the shore, local tribes would pay 30% of the construction while Masqat would pay the rest, from those new cities Masqat would try to draw in new tribes that would become part of the influence shpere of Masqat. The council estimated that het construction would be completed within 50 years.

Dark Red = Province where Masqat is located
Orange = Provinces under direct influence of Masqat
Red = Provinces where the new cities will be build
Green = Provinces where the council attempts to draw new tribes from

[Relikai]

To all the people of Lin, I, Amikaga Shukomitsu, have arrived in your wonderful Empire to establish relations between your celestial Empire and the Kami Shogunate, where I hail from. Tell me dear sir, where might the Celestial Emperor be resided at. We would appreciate any help we could find.

Just as he said it, the boat crew unloaded various treasures from the Kami Maru, soem of which include the Shogun's own kamimata, guilded with gold and silver and the handle made of Amber, gold, silver, Incense, and a Kami-styled armour plate (Shogun Style) made of Kami Steel.

A man dressed in light armor greeted them. He identified himself as the village's chief sentry, greeting with respect.

"Greetings, Men from the Sea, we see that you are no mere fishermen or traders who often come to visit, but one of Royalty. Our Capital is Linjia, two weeks' ride or 2 months' walk away from here. We have always thought that something more exists across the sea, and it has come to us today."

Looking at the treasures, the sentry assumed that they are imperial gifts, and called for several pack horses and carts, to prepare for a journey west to the Imperial Capital. A messenger was sent ahead, to prepare the Capital and the Emperor for such distinguished guests.

[Sasutary Island]

I thank you for your kind gesture. I hope that we may get to business with the Emperor soon. But no horses for me, I brought my own.

And like that, his servants emerged with a majestic white horse, a finely made leather saddle sat in the middle of it.

Oh, and I hope you don't mind If I brought along my bodyguards with me? Just in case everything goes pear-shaped.

The carts of treasure clattered behind him and his guide, the guards taking great care of the treasure, making sure none of the peasants took it. The ship moored to the pier side and the crew on board began to loudly sing some un-intelligible Japanese song. Amikaga simply thought of all the mischief they would be up to while he was away.

You don't think you know somewhere where you could get Peking Duck would you?
Amikaga said as he glanced toward the guide.

[The Emerald Dragon]

Tarjen

Situated in the province of YaMesh, the Capital of the Kingdom of Helftai stood; its 35,000 citizens working diligently in their houses, shops, temples etc to better themselves, and the nation. Guards, with iron swords and bronze armour kept the peace in the area, they'd periodically break their stoic charade and smile at a joke or passing group. Other than that, the day was as normal as any other, and many civilian-soldiers were on leave from three months in the mountains. The army was in an excellent state, with 25,000 well trained regular soldiers and countless numbers of reserves, they mainly used iron weapons and iron armour, the reserves used bronze armour and mostly iron weapons.

Meanwhile, in the Suez, on the border between them and a much more powerful nation... a series of stone forts were beginning to be built.

[Caltarania]

-El Reserveo-

[Alleniana]

Confederal Palace, Kaidakkos, Confederation of Kanensos

To the King of Karthellia,

As more and more threats in our seas develop, from those living in the fertile, warm lands of the south, multiplying in multitudes, to northern barbarians who look poised to grow into credible forces, to all the states that sit around us, it becomes clear that our nations must look to whoever is available to protect themselves. Despite trade, diplomacy and the best efforts of good men, we have found that enemies and rivals only reproduce, and we hope that we can find a way to curtail this in alliance.

The Confederation of Kanensos would like to formally offer the hand of friendship, of military alliance and free trade to your people. Our colonies are many, and yet break off, just across our seas are a people hellbent on occupying our rightful lands, and of course, upon your peninsual, many usurpers of your rightful power across it live. We, in such close proximity, believe that a good mutual relationship would be the best way to go, especially as trade between us increases.

We would propose that mutual declarations of friendship are made, all tariffs on each others' trade abolished, and what amounts to a formal treaty of mutual defence and non-aggression are made. In this way, we could prevent each other's downfalls, and dominate our vicinities. With it, we could become masters of the known world, in might and conquest.

We hope that you will consider this, and at least be open to further negotiation; Kanesos would be glad to hear a reply, and we do hope that it will be positive; what we regard as the best answer in these times.

From Chancellor Sonaiden Pakta

[The Grand Republic of Hannover]

UNDER CONSTRUCTION.

[Alouite]

Lord Protector Baltazar Atlas of the Constellation Family was sitting in his palace wearing Dark Blue robes as his Brother and General of the Tangierian Army, Ithhobal arrived, he stated in a calm tempered, almost soothing accent that most people in the Noble Families had, "Lord Protector, I have nothing to report, I the situation in Tangiers is as always, calm. I have news from Casamal (Casablanca) that there has been a minor incident where a few men have attempted to steal from one of the Sun Family's trade caravans, but it was dealt with and the men were banished to the Sand for all time." Banished to the Sand is when criminals are taken to the farthest reach of the Great Sea of Sand (Sahara) towards the south, they are blindfolded along the way and then stripped of all clothes and items before being let go to wander the Sahara until the inevitable came to pass. Lord Protector Balthazar sighed and said, "It is strange that since we opened trade with the men to the far north that violence has arisen, perhaps it is in their souls and when they come to our lands it begins to corrupt ours, but I am not yet convinced, raise the tariff on imported goods to the north and we shall see." Ithhobal nodded and went to speak with the trade masters in Tangiers, they had always been loyal to the Constellation Family, since the family is dominant in Tangiers, and the traders were often willing to listen. A few minutes later a member of the Moon Family walked in and said, "Our hometown Epsil (Oujda) has sighted more of the Lorasa Nomads (Nomadic people that have lately been migrating out of Mali due to Droughts), they camped by our town for five days before we sent a force to get them to leave, there were no deaths on either side, however, we fear they will return with more men, please Lord Protector, send men to aid us, our noble levy is only a hundred men in the family, and if we were to do battle our family could be slaughtered, would you please send some regulars to aid us." Baltasar shook his head, "You shouldn't beg, I will assist you of course! Our families have always been close, how could I let them down? I will send a thousand men to decimate them upon arrival, they will encamp around the side of town from which the nomads came and be under High Prince Hiram's command for two years, should they return they are to be killed in battle, their women sold overseas and their children sent to Tangiers to become new soldiers." the man smiled in joy and relief, "Thank you lord protector, this is why the Moon Family supported you as Lord Protector over that scum Adon." Baltasar shook his head once more, "Adon was a fine Naval commander when he was young, he is honorable in that, and though he did kill his slaves in the name of some foreign religion, we must respect him for his service. I, however can lead Armies as proven before, and am still young (He is 34) enough to fight." Adon nodded, "I see Lord Protector, I have good news to tell my family so I must be off." Overall, it was a rather uneventful day for Baltisar and the Kingdom continued to exist in relative peace.

[Photana]

CHAPTER ONE: THE RISE OF THE STRONG-MEN.

Western Steppe, Jun'Uo

The hunters and herdsmen of two Kolos emerge from their camps. With them, march their spear-wives, alongside the sacred idols of both Kolos, and their banners. The warriors wore the traditional layered leather armor, something that could block both tooth and claw from the wild and spear and arrow from man. Their weapons were simply what they hunted or herded with, Spears, bows and daggers. These men arranged in their traditional battle arrays, the shape of a sickle. Battle was to commence, and to the victor, the spoils.

After a tense few seconds, both sides charged, and the blood, sweat and tears of man and woman could be heard by the spirits of the past, and those of the future.

---

The battle was over by nightfall, and one Kolos was utterly devastated. Instead of being scattered to the wind, as in tradition, the defeated Kolos was offered a deal:

Join the victor's Kolos, or be utterly destroyed.

And, by the next morning, the Kolos of the victor, a Kolos that broke with tradition, the Kolos of the "Jan" Kalui. Kalui was not alone in his actions, scenes like this were repeated all over the steppes. Historic times were occurring, the Jun'Uo, for the first time since the times of Jun, were unifying. Kolos fought with Kolos, inspiring leaders rose from the unknown, and among the vast steppes, a new order was rising as the old fell. Where once the elders ruled over the steppes and times were relatively peaceful, with the Kolos keeping feuds small and mostly inter-personal, now the steppe was under the rule of strong-men, men who ruled larger and larger Kolos by the day, and whose flocks needed more and more lands.

And as the land grew fewer, and the strong-men stronger, a few of them began to look outward for the lands and loot that they sustained their power on, and they all arrived upon the same name - Conestantili (Konstantinopolis). The civilized realm of the west had occasionally traded with a few of the Kolos, but many times they had simply rebuffed the offers, in their sneering native tongue, denying the luxuries of their life to the Jan'Uo.

Now, with lust for plunder, and a need for conquest, the leaders of the Jan'Uo near Conestantili began to send in scouts near the borders.

[Relikai]

I thank you for your kind gesture. I hope that we may get to business with the Emperor soon. But no horses for me, I brought my own.

And like that, his servants emerged with a majestic white horse, a finely made leather saddle sat in the middle of it.

Oh, and I hope you don't mind If I brought along my bodyguards with me? Just in case everything goes pear-shaped.

The carts of treasure clattered behind him and his guide, the guards taking great care of the treasure, making sure none of the peasants took it. The ship moored to the pier side and the crew on board began to loudly sing some un-intelligible Japanese song. Amikaga simply thought of all the mischief they would be up to while he was away.

You don't think you know somewhere where you could get Peking Duck would you?
Amikaga said as he glanced toward the guide.

The journey to Linjia proved uneventful, with two dozens of the provincial guard escorting the delegation. Soon, they reached the Eternal City, where the Emperor was waiting.

"No weapons in the Imperial Court."

Apart from this arrangement, the delegation was allowed in quickly, everyone ready to begin talks and discussions.

"Greetings, men of the Shogun Kamikaga Mitsubishi. I take it that the Lands beyond the Sea are an abundant lot, seeing the prosperity it sends over. Now, how may I help you?"

[Bujahla]

The Kingdom of Konstantinopolis
Chapter 1: Coronation of King Satyrus II

A painting of the city of Konstantinopolis, 3 CE.

---

Today was the day that a new king would be crowned for the small kingdom at the north of the Black Sea. For many kings had ruled over the conglomeration of cities, but none had done such a fine job as Satyrus I. For he was the previous kind who had died of illness, but did not deserve such an un-honorable death. Satyrus, the first of his name, was a king who could please. He rose to power in 24 BC when he lead a noble rebellion against the Spartocid Dynasty. In doing so, he gained popular support from most of the Spartocid opposition, but, that came at a price. In doing so, he tied his hands and was forced to deal with many new, smaller, noble families that would become important elements in the Kingdom. As a result, corruption was wide-spread, but who wouldn't expect that? None the less, Satyrus had played the corruption quite well and made it look like a hero for maintaining order. Playing each house off against each other in different cities, he was able to prevent them from taking too much power and expanding beyond their cities. As well, he kept the power in Konstantinopolis all to himself as he, without mercy, crushed the remaining nobles that weren't loyal. He had become a successful despot, but would his son be? And so unfolds the next chapter of the history of Konstantinopolis, the story of Satyrus the second of his name.

---

A fake photograph depicting the slave scene in Theni (Yalta), 1 CE.

---

The kingdom of Konstantinopolis was notorious for it's slave trade. Only Kanensosians were considered citizens, and anyone that wasn't was considered a barbarian, a term that comes from a Kanesosian philosopher to describe these heathens. These men and women were frequently enslaved, and as such, they made up a large part of the realistic population of the kingdom. They had been mostly removed from the Krimon Peninsula (Crimea), but were not completely gone until 1 CE. It was this year that a group of Thenian slave-traders were making a voyage to the outer cities of the realm when they were attacked by these barbarians. They put up a hard fight and took these men as slaves. Little did they know these were the last of the barbarians within Krimon, but it wouldn't be the last barbarians for Konstantinopolis. No, not in the least bit, for a larger threat stands on the border of the kingdom now. The Jan'Uo. This large group of nomads have been an ever-growing threat to the people of Konstantinopolis, and Satyrus II reign would be the deciding factor in their future relations.

---

[Fortunagen]

An artist's rendering of the compound of Renri in the village of Dyne, circa 1 C.E.
Directory

The Village of Dyne
Located here.

Renri was the most powerful tyrant in the realm of Keltica, ruling from Dyne and trading goods as far south as Karthellia. His investments into the mines of tin outside of the village were known throughout the Celtic Sea and his merchant fleet was the greatest the village had ever produced. Argysle(Normandy) was the name of the large region across the sea to the south near the islands of Cile(The Channel Islands), and Renri's expedition was one of many sent to scout the region for potential farmland, as the area was much more fertile than that surrounding Dyne.

It was for these reasons Renri and his advisers had been considering creating a settlement that could ship materials to and fro, but he could not do this without a sign from the gods, and for that he had to travel to Ebbe in Southern Orallen(Ireland), which was a ancient loch that was said to be the spot the god Esus, who representing the god of construction and the home, greeted the first Keltic settlers from the East. The water was said to have been fresh beyond comparison, and the god allowed the first Kelts to drink without fear while giving them advice on where to build their homes. In return for his favour, the Kelts poured their wine and brandy into the ancient waters, and thus ten years of strong harvest were recorded. It has been tradition ever since that Keltic kings had journeyed to the Loch to drink with the gods alone in solace, and to return the next morning with the answers they needed.
Thus Renri was off, and once more the village of Dyne awaited the return of it's king.

The Village of Nantyre
Located here.

The village of Nantyre had been the center of Orallen(Ireland) power for the last two centuries. It's emphasis on it's in particular export of wool and hides and the import of salt, iron and wine from the East generated wealth, which was used to hire ship makers to build an ever larger merchant fleet. A natural harbor permitted a large commercial fleet, and that was exactly what the four merchant families in control of the village's trade wanted. Soon expeditions were made down the coast of Argysle(Normandy), and then back up through the Isles of Cile(Channel Islands) and back home. This exchange spread the Rell, or the currency most commonly used the Keltic villages in Orallen(Ireland). Soon, the metals used to mint the currency in Nantyre were running thin, and therefore a new source needed to be exploited. The villages of Dyne and Vorlete were both large producers of the substance, and an envoy was to be sent to determine if the mines could be sold or not.

The Village of Gael
Located here.

Gael was a unique construction. Built as a step-fortress by the combined army of the hamlets surrounding River Yae(Tawe), soon traders and metalworkers came to live nearby as to build a new harbor under protection of the local garrison. Just a mere century earlier, the village had constructed it's first naval vessel, and now a coalition of the two wealthiest families had been united by marriage under the High Priestess, and a monarchy was declared, with the local hamlets now required to pay tribute for protection. Soon, recruitment officers were sent to all parts of the realm to search for officers and volunteers for a new army that could be used to enforce these taxations and then hopefully be useful in expanding the area of influence northward, into the explored realms of Keltica.

Summary

Life as normal continues in the lands of Keltica, plans are set in motion, people are born, people die, a culture flourishes under an realm-wide language and religion. It's only a matter of time before the land is united or divided, war seems imminent, and it's only a matter of time before foreign powers get involved. What will become of these lands? Only time will tell.

[Reatra]

Ah, Reinato, it held hundreds of thousands of men and women. All sharing the same faith, the only faith. The one of Reatra, The Way to Live. Nickoli came down from Reatra's Seat on his command, and told The Way to Live to a scribe named Jace, who's name was changed to RyRy and who wrote down the first story of The Way to Live. RyRy gathered thousands of followers and wandered the nation of Eirlin, but the Eirlinish king feared the Reatrists powers. So he was forced into exile with his followers. One sixty-six arks eleven thousand Reatrists and their livestock sailed for eleven days. They ended up on the future site of Reinato. RyRy was proclaimed first Inpir of the Rei Blessed Kingdom. With eleven thousand men and women, the city was first a series of cabin and tents. But after demanding resources from the neighboring tribes and villages, and warring with the nearby cities, Reinato became the glorious and massive city it was today. The Blessed Kingdom extended it's reach into the close-by cities. And by a hundred years ago it had reached its current size. Inpir Ritonau II then declared that the Blessed Kingdom would enter a time of peace. For ninety years, this persisted, until Inpir RyRy II, the only one since the First Landing to take the name of the original Inpir, succeeded Inpir Srea III. He decided that the pagans in the surrounding lands needed to become Reatrists themselves. Some few agreed peacefully, as they saw the incredible advancements of the Blessed Kingdom. Most of them, though needed some... Persuading.

---

"Inpir, I have news from the west." General Da said as he entered the room.
"Yes, Da?" Inpir RyRy said, practicing yoga poses.
"Well... Uh... The troops on the western border have advanced into the Ayu." Da reported, a little distracted.
"Ah, the damned pretentious ones who sent us that 'ultimatum' last month?"
"Yes, and already we've had eight villages surrender and out forces are meeting at the commandery capital. Within a month we expect to assault the city, as our siege engines have just finished construction."
"Excellent work. And the surrounding states have received letters declaring our reason for war?" RyRy asked.
"Yes, although the Ayu still complain that it was an ultimatum and not an insult, although the surrounding states mostly believe our side of the story."
"Great," RyRy said, finishing his pose, "How many reserve troops do he have?" He asked Da.
"Roughly a hundred and seventy thousand could be raised relatively quickly and with little effect."
"Raise them. Send them to the currently occupied parts of Ayu, and have them stand ready to reinforce our main force should the Ayu try to break the siege. We'll see how our neighbors handle another paunt and a half in the war effort."
"Of course, my Inpir." Da said, leaving the room.
"Oh! Da! One more thing!" RyRy exclaimed.
Da turned around fast as lightening. "Yes?"
"I forgot to tell you, bring missionaries along with the troops and have them convert the surrendered people. Have them tell them that it was part of their 'surrendering agreement'." RyRy finished.
"Alright. I'll have the generals raise their troops within the week."
"Good, Reatra'a di zufu."
"Reatra'a di zufu."

---

Within six months, the Ayu fell to Rei forces. The king of the Ayu, Seresem, agreed to cede his kingdom to RyRy, and it was reorganized into the Ayu commandery and the Tuya commandery, after their biggest cities. RyRy placed his own men in charge of the commanderies, who oversaw the conversion of the people there to Reatrism. Those who resisted were jailed for a night. And if they resisted further they were killed. It wasn't long after that that RyRy declared war on the Chal, a small kingdom to the south. As the troops moved in to attack, RyRy led the army himself.

They marched upon the capital.

[Relikai]

District Zhan, 8AD

The unknown lands East of the Northern District, District Zhan, has come under great scrutiny of late. Rumors of a fertile land were rampant among the district court, and Viceroy Ching Lan is eager to show his worth to the new Emperor. District Zhan, being a northern border administration, contains a military outpost and several barracks. Stables are aplenty, due to the north's ideal setting for horsemen. Both tribal natives and Linguoren live side by side, working the fields and preserving th pace and security of the land.

In 8AD, Ching Lan and Guo Qing, one of the North's second tier commanders, decided to send an expeditionary force East to search for new lands. A summons for the provincial army was made, as well as large logistical routes planned for supplying the expedition. Around 200 pack carts are commissioned to carry supplies with the expeditionary force, and each soldier carries three days worth of supplies for consumption.

The Northern Sea Campaign
Launch Date 9AD

[u]The Northern Expeditionary Force, Ground Army
Led by General Guo Qing

800 Infantry
600 Archers
200 Heavy Cavalry
400 Mounted Archers
5000 Settlers

The Northern Expeditionary Force, Naval Fleet
Led by Admiral Zhan Cheng

2 Large warships
5 Small ships

200 Marines
300 Settlers

Campaign Objectives


Yellow - Objectives

First Phase Report -
Leading scouts have reached a large river separating the mainland from the peninsula across. A bridge was set up, and we crossed over in force. 500 Settlers remained behind to build an outpost and village, where they can provide rest for future supply caravans. The Ground Army crossed the river and met some people speaking the language of the North. Some are friendly, some are hostile. Our tribal brothers are able to communicate with the natives, informing them of our arrival and intentions, which are not to hurt but to understand. Another 500 remained to integrate with these people, as well as to aid future caravans.

Second Phase Report -
We circumvented a great reservoir, and into the mountain ranges of the land. Our supply condition is worsening, but only 100 soldiers have died from illness so far. Winter is coming, we shall halt the advance and build a large base here for the campaigns next year.

Campaign Progress


Yellow - Objectives
Red - Freshly settled land.

District Qin, 8AD

The Kingdom of Shu's existance remained a blight to the History of the Qin-Lin Dynasty. The Shu's Army has led numerous raids unto Qin during the warring period, so much so that Lin Guo himself had to beat them back seven times in a year, with numerous casualties on both sides. This time, he wanted a crushing victory, as well as the land which allowed such travesties to happen. The land to the South remained a problem, as reports of them invading nations around it en masse brought attention to the Court. They must not be allowed to expand too much.

Being located near the Central Plains, logistics are much less of an issue than the North. Roads and supply lines were marked out during the Qin Wars, and battle-hardened soldiers remained in the ranks of the Lin Army. Twenty veteran generals are called up for the campaign south, as well as much of the Imperial Army. Mass recruiting and border conscription have doubled the size of the Lin Army, giving a large solid roster of conscripts. They may not be as well trained after three years of hard training, but leadership, standardization, discipline, organization, and size would surely overcome individual fighting skill and attrition.

The plan is to have the First and Second Wings enter the contested lands bordering Rei, while the Third Wing skirted wide into the mountain regions with more settlers. They will then be set up for a defence and as a backup reinforcing unit for the First and Second Wings.

Apart from conscripts, a number of Tian Lei, Langchao and Pilihuo divisions are called up for the campaign. An army of about 200,000 is expected to take part in the campaign, split into smaller fighting divisions along campaign routes. A reserve is called up, consisting of the Elite troops. They will be led by the Emperor himself once supplies are gathered and the men are prepared.

The Campaign for Shu
Launch Date 12AD

Shu Invasion Force First Wing

14,000 Infantry
10,000 Archers
6,000 Cavalry
30,000 Conscript Infantry

Shu Invasion Force Second Wing

20,000 Infantry
12,000 Archers
8,000 Cavalry
40,000 Conscript Infantry

Shu Invasion Force Third Wing

10,000 Infantry
12,000 Archers
6,000 Cavalry
30,000 Conscript Infantry

Shu Invasion Force Reserve/Emperor's Guard (Entire Force to be gathered)

30,000 Langchao Armoured Infantry
40,000 Pilihuo Armoured Archers
10,000 Tian Lei Armoured Cavalry
70,000 Conscript Infantry

Shu Campaign Support Logistics Order (Non-Combatant)

800,000 labourers
5,000 administrators
150,000 oxen carts (including reserves)


Campaign Objectives


Reports that the Southerners have reached Shu lands did not deter the Lin's army. The mountainous regions were captured pretty easily, with settlers and conscripts moving in to build forts and garrisons. Contested lands soon began to appear, as the Armies moved into positions along mountain passes and flatlands. The First and Second Wings struck from Linguo itself, while the Third Wing moved into the newly established border along Rei.

[New Hayabusa]

-WIP-

-EXPANSION INCOMING-

[Adurnak]

To the King of Karthellia,

As more and more threats in our seas develop, from those living in the fertile, warm lands of the south, multiplying in multitudes, to northern barbarians who look poised to grow into credible forces, to all the states that sit around us, it becomes clear that our nations must look to whoever is available to protect themselves. Despite trade, diplomacy and the best efforts of good men, we have found that enemies and rivals only reproduce, and we hope that we can find a way to curtail this in alliance.

The Confederation of Kanensos would like to formally offer the hand of friendship, of military alliance and free trade to your people. Our colonies are many, and yet break off, just across our seas are a people hellbent on occupying our rightful lands, and of course, upon your peninsual, many usurpers of your rightful power across it live. We, in such close proximity, believe that a good mutual relationship would be the best way to go, especially as trade between us increases.

We would propose that mutual declarations of friendship are made, all tariffs on each others' trade abolished, and what amounts to a formal treaty of mutual defence and non-aggression are made. In this way, we could prevent each other's downfalls, and dominate our vicinities. With it, we could become masters of the known world, in might and conquest.

We hope that you will consider this, and at least be open to further negotiation; Kanesos would be glad to hear a reply, and we do hope that it will be positive; what we regard as the best answer in these times.

From Chancellor Sonaiden Pakta

The message was received in Apoloti in the east lands over the sea, and had to be sent by ship to the king in his capital.
Upon reading the message King Balendin was all too happy to happy to agree to the proposal sent forward by the people of Kanensos after reviewing it and checking over a few old maps he had; a strong ally with a strong navy was definitely not something to be sniffed at, and he quickly wrote a reply and had it taken back east to the Confederation of Kanensos. It's contents were a simple agreement to the proposal and an extension of friendship of his own to the people.
Meanwhile, in his old age (53) the king had been planning the invasion of new lands to further create prosperity for his people and a certain level of protection for the homelands and trade. The final details were not yet made, but the army and navy both were to prepare themselves for a war. A war with a yet unknown enemy...

[Finland SSR]

The Almocans

The nation was spreading. Even though the foundations for a civilization have been set, some people did not forget the old ways. A few tribes settled southward, in the more fertile, and watery, areas, especially around the Kikammokto Lake. Back at home, first mineral mines were built in the north. They were mostly gathering a shining grey valuable metal, called "Ahritum" by the Almocans. Some people also found many yellow and reddish rocks, which change color and properties when put over a fire for a period of time...

In the capital, the Great Chief ordered to build a large structure - a pyramid - for religious reasons. On top of it, the shamans were closer to Alhasa, and could give him hearts easier. It was built on a hill right next to the city, 25 humans tall and the same length wide, it took 5 years to build.