600 AD British Isles RP (IC, Closed)

[Southern Babylonia]

Olaf was happy the Brude had come to the point. He himself wasn't good at getting out of the small talk, it was useful to have someone else volunteer for it. He enjoyed his recantation of history being called a "tale", mainly because it assured him he'd told it not only accurately but interestingly. Without further hesitation, the Dane continued:
"Hmm... we have gold, tin, iron, copper, led, wood, cattle, cheese, mead, wine, grain, barley, naval supplies, horses, ballistas... those are only some of the products on our market. We also flourish in our knowledge of military and naval engineering and architecture. Our ballistas have been famed for a thousand years, and the engineers only keep improving them. As for navy, we can tell that you already share in our knowledge of dragonboats. But there is another matter to address: a military alliance. My king sees you as a superior force to Caledonia on the Scotian mainland. Though they remain peaceful for now, the Arguborr have expanded onto firm ground almost as recently as our arrival, and should they seek to expand further, we would be happy to count you amongst those who would stand firm in defence of their homeland." Olaf hoped this wasn't a step over the line. If the Picts were considering an alliance with the Arguborr, he would have little to say for himself.

___________________________________________________________________________________

Lydian Push Southwards
Belligerents:
Lydian Army

Scottish clans

Forces:
Lydds- 50 cavalry
50 archers
150 infantry (weapons varying)
1 ballista

Scots- 50 clansmen, armed mainly with swords, spears, axes and bows

Losses:
Lydds- 65 killed, 15 wounded

Scots- 40 killed, 5 wounded, 5 surrendered

Result:
Lydian conquest of province highlighted in red:

[Canadian Davsland]

Norse Expansion southward

Belligerents:
Nova Suevian Army
-----------------------
Irish Clans
----------------------
Forces:

Nova Suevia:
150 cavalry
150 archers
150 infantry (weapons varying)
4 Viking Amoured Ballistas

Irish Clans:
150 Infantry with axes, swords, bows, and spears
---------------------------------------------------
Losses:

Nova Suevia: 60 lost

Irish Clans: 70 killed, 50 missing or ditched the battle, 30 surrendered

Result:
Nova Suevia conquest of province highlighted in bright green:

http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=qp0702&s=6

[Ralnis]

In the Mirr Quhalden, Falckson was getting impatient because he wanted to get the meeting with the diplomat over with but want his most trust general,Ulfintic from expanding the realm for the Mirr. As he was handling the current state of affairs like he always had, something caught his attention when a messenger came with some wrothwhile information.

"My Leader, I have a letter from General Ulfintic" the messenger said kneel and as he hand Falckson with the Royal Draconic seal and Falckson opened it and it read
My Dear Leader
I have mangae to capture the capital of the province but at the expanse of atleast 89 of our Murrhulgen but we overwhelmed there defenses and cut off there supplies with the blockade.The people where resliant but, even as we take the capital, we still blockakde the ports and use are own muntions to feed our troops. So, I will be back for the meeting in 3 weeks when the region has concede to the Mirr
With honor,
General Ulfintic
Falckson saw this he was smiling."Finally, we make our first mark in the history of this land that we are its masters! You! Tell the chamberlin to prepare for the meeting in 3 weeks so we can finally meet with that the diplomat that is so eagerly to speak to me"

Ok so I kind of didn't put this in the right con text in this so I will just put this the results though I don't know how to color in the region. So if some one can tell me, either way this a past post to so I just need to post the results either way

Mirr Quhalden Expands Southeast along the coastline
Belligerents:
Quhaden horde
-----------------------
English Clans
----------------------
Forces:

Nova Suevia:
150 cavalry
150 archers
500 infantry (weapons varying)
2 Catapults

English Clans:
150 Infantry with axes, swords, bows, and spears
---------------------------------------------------
Losses:


Quhalden horde: 60 lost

English Clans: 70 killed, 50 missing or ditched , 30 enslaved

Result:
Mirr Quhalden conquest of province and now expands there coastline and further borders the Kivillic Kingdom(someone can clolr that blue thank you)

here is the link:http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=nvays6&s=6

[Glasgia]

Olaf was happy the Brude had come to the point. He himself wasn't good at getting out of the small talk, it was useful to have someone else volunteer for it. He enjoyed his recantation of history being called a "tale", mainly because it assured him he'd told it not only accurately but interestingly. Without further hesitation, the Dane continued:
"Hmm... we have gold, tin, iron, copper, led, wood, cattle, cheese, mead, wine, grain, barley, naval supplies, horses, ballistas... those are only some of the products on our market. We also flourish in our knowledge of military and naval engineering and architecture. Our ballistas have been famed for a thousand years, and the engineers only keep improving them. As for navy, we can tell that you already share in our knowledge of dragonboats. But there is another matter to address: a military alliance. My king sees you as a superior force to Caledonia on the Scotian mainland. Though they remain peaceful for now, the Arguborr have expanded onto firm ground almost as recently as our arrival, and should they seek to expand further, we would be happy to count you amongst those who would stand firm in defence of their homeland." Olaf hoped this wasn't a step over the line. If the Picts were considering an alliance with the Arguborr, he would have little to say for himself.

Ciniod let a sly smile emerge from his lips. It seemed that this might end up being a very prosperous alliance.

"I would be interested in learning of your ballista. It may be another name for something my people already use, but I have not heard the term before. You speak as if they are a great weapon, if they are I would be interested in purchasing some." A murmur of agreement went through the council. A few nodded and whispered in the ears of those next to them, apparently having heard of ballistas before.

[Canadian Davsland]

Norse conquer more of the northwestern coast.

Belligerents:
Nova Suevian Army
-----------------------
Irish Clans
----------------------
Forces:

Nova Suevia:
60 cavalry
60 archers
60 infantry (weapons varying)
4 Viking Amoured Ballistas

Irish Clans:
100 Infantry with axes, swords, bows, and spears
---------------------------------------------------
Losses:

Nova Suevia: 55 lost

Irish Clans: 75 killed, 15 missing or ditched the battle, 10 surrendered

Result:
Nova Suevia conquest of province highlighted in bright green:

http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=beu6g2&s=6

[Ralnis]

Mirr Quhalden Expansion northward to isolate the Kivillic Kingdom

Belligerents:
Quhalden Horde
-----------------------
Saxon Tribes
----------------------
Forces:

Quhalden Horde
150 nerachora
150 hunters
450 murrhugen (weapons varying)
2 balistas

Saxon Tirbes:
360 Infantry with axes, swords, bows, and spears
---------------------------------------------------
Losses:

Quhalden Horde: 82 lost

Saxon Tribes: 150 killed, 50 missing or ditched the battle, 50 enslaved

Result:
Mirr Quhalden conquest of provinces highlighted in blue, in sussefuly isolate the Kivillic kingdom in around August 16 600 AD(so i cave everybody the current timeline

http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=sl3f47&s=6

[Glasgia]

An Cèitean, 1387 gun Tuatha
Early Morning,
Dun Nechtain

"Today, we must ready for war. The Argurborr are to our east, a fellow nation of the Brythonnic variety. We must unify now and the only way to do so, is battle. I ask that every other attendee at this meeting rides to their estates to ready the men of the Tobhach. We must be call to arms many of this realm's farmers if we are to fight." Ciniod's words echoed throughout the fortress' main hall. He had again assembled the council, just a few months after their meeting in Am Faoilleach. He had decided that the Argurborr were a threat to their territory, while the foreigners to the south had increasingly withdrawn from international affairs.

"How will you decide who is chosen to bring their tobhach? It is not something I would volunteer to do, as Beltaine is close and those who work the land will not be pleased to miss their festival." A woman, tall in height and pleasing to the eye with her slim waistline, spoke up. Ciniod recognised her as the Toiseach Eithne, the lady of lands around Dun Taruo. That made her important and she was young too, a good catch for a new Brude Ar. He would have to answer carefully, as she could sway others.

"I will now ask for volunteers: Please step forward if you feel that going to war would suit you." A few younger male nobles stepped forward, evidently wanting to make their name in battle, as well as a small group of woman and elders. However, there was still not enough.

"Is this all? Are you cowards?" At that some stepped forward, but Ciniod desired still more.

"Those that remain, please form a line in front of my servant over there. Give him your name and he shall write it down on parchment, then blindly choose three... two, two names." The servant reacted quickly to his intrustions, grabbing a pot of dye and a goose feather. Each noble remaining did as told and two names were drawn. With a sigh the Tosieach agreed and Ciniod left the room, ready to prepare for war.

[Glasgia]

OOC: Meh, double post it shall be

IC:

An Giblean, 1387 gun Tuatha
Mid Morning,
Dun Nechtain

"We shall march. We shall march onwards, onwards to unify our people under a single banner. We shall fight. We shall fight with courage, courage brought from our hearts to battle for what we believe. We shall win! We shall take the Argurborr under our rule and make the Picts the supreme rulers of the northern celtic peoples, for we are better than them. However, they are our cousins and both shall benefit with submission to the Pictish warriors. You shall win because you believe in a unified Alba, because you are descendants of the great Kay and because you are Picts!" Ciniod roared his last few words, the action returned by feral howls from the assembled warriors before him. His speech had whipped them up into a blood lust that would only be defeated when they had destroyed Argurborr.

"We shall march!" The Tosieach rode out, one at a time, and their men followed. Ciniod noted that even the Tobhach were well equipped in case of war, the majority holding axes and shields. Some even looked like professionals, likely equipped for war by their Tosieach who wanted to show that his men could hold up in a fight. That weaponry would've been sold to them at a cheaper price than usual and would be bought back for less at the end of the war, unless the farmer wanted a token of their experience.

Evening,
Argurborr Border

They stopped to rest for the night, the entire force coming to a halt. Fires were lit and men unpacked cloths with with to shield themselves from the wet ground and keep warm in the night. Domnall pulled his cloak tighter, a weave of wool that he'd bought from the markets of Lann Abae before leaving. His lord had volunteered and Domnall had joined the Tobhach willingly.

Know he was just waiting for his first chance of battle. He'd glimpsed the king for the first time earlier and that speech had made him want more, persuading him that war was his profession. Pulling aside his tunic, he peeked at his tattoos again. Made with woad, they would not come off easily. As a young warrior, Domnall wore the marks until he killed an enemy and then he would gain pride and respect.

Until then, he crouched before the campfire with others and sharpened his long axe, handed down by his grandfather. Drinks, mainly ale or whisky, were passed around and Domnall laughed with the others. They had much more marching to do until they could fight, though the Argurboor did not seem to have reacted yet according to rumours. Of course, many a man claimed to have heard the scouts that reported to the Brude Ar and some would tell the truth.

[Ralnis]

War Room
Mirr Quhalden
August 21, 600AD

"Ulfintic its time to go to war aganist the Kivliic Kingdom and finally solidfy our grasp on this side of Britain, I want them gone from this place if we have any hope to wage war aganist the Christains" Falckson said to Ulfintic has he took a sip of his ale and put it on the table
"I want you to send all forces at there borders and see if you can harass them a little bit, see if you can get them into war or if we have to force them to."
"Yes, my leader. I will do so"

[Kazarogkai]

The Border guards and scouts had learned of the approaching enemy army and were quick to mobilize, they gathered the local reservist, regulars, and also some irregulars among the populace(primarily Village Militiamen). Messengers were sent to the local lord and lords surrounding, and finally the king who was located on the main island of the Arguborr. Soon the quickly assembled army was gathered upon an area nearing the border were the picts were found to be gathering. The area though near was not on the border it was 7 hills on the other side of a small river. Because the lord of the land was not present they had to rely on the Marines officers to command them, the troops were put in 4 positions The center, The Left, The Right, and the Reserve. The two flanks were given the most troop strength though the artillery was placed in the center. The Arguborr do not drink liquor or other spirits and things they refer to as poisons, it kinda goes against their religious belief of not to do any harm to any of the 3 great plains(Mind, Body, Soul) and keep their connections to each other strong. This keeps them focused and most importantly not having to deal with hangovers in the mourning. Instead they prefer a type of tea that is made from the petals of a blue flower from a tree that grows plentiful in the Arguborr lands. The drink has a calming effect and has been used for generations to chill peoples nerves(especially soldiers) it has a very strong and spicy-sweet taste to it and when drunken burns like whiskey, smells earthy, looks like a very dark blue, stains ones mouth, lips, tongue and such a bluish tinge. The drink itself is always served hot and drunken in a wood cup usually made from apple wood. Because of the blue stain the drink causes on the Arguborr and because they drink it constantly this has given them the name blue mouths.

The Arguborr though known for their ships were only OK when it came to cavalry and were overall poor bowmen, though their high morale and ability to respond quickly was notable in itself too. The majority of the Arguborr marines were axemen armed with between 15-20 Arguborr War Axes and finally a simple round shield, there were a few Spearmen armed with the Arguborr's dreaded rhomphaia with its 3 foot handle and 3 foot blade, and finally 4 Arguborr Catapults which by most definitions were quite small but were very mobile(they are only 1/3 the size of regular ones) albeit with reduced firepower because of its smaller stone it threw. There were also about 5 Arguborr war canoes in the river ready for battle, the Arguborrs were blessed by the fact that their land was filled with many rivers, lakes and other navigable water sources. They would use classic Arguborr doctrine strong reliance on flank attacks, staggered form(this makes it so that tired and weary units can be quickly replaced by fresher units, and over again), and finally patience for the enemy to come to them and if the enemy is hesitant shoot cannons at their back flank and center to encourage them to move forward and damage enemy formations.

Arguborr troop statistics
Troop Numbers
-300 total
Troop composition
-100 Regulars
-100 Reservist
-100 Irregulars
-4 Arguborr Catapults
-5 War Canoes
War Readiness
-Mild Readiness
-Fresh
-High Morale
-Focused

[Glasgia]

Report on Army Size and Equipment for the Invasion of the Kingdom of Arguborr

Roster

Brude Ar Ciniod map Alpin

30 Gaisgidh
30 Diuberr
20 Each Raidh

Tosieach Calden map Owain

5 Gaisgidh
20 Diuberr
500 Tobach Laioch

Tosieach Drosten map Oengus

3 Gaisgidh
10 Diuberr
5 Each Raidh
400 Tobhach Laioch

Tosieach Caltram map Pidarnoin

5 Gaisgidh
10 Diuberr
5 Each Raidh
350 Tobhach Laioch

Tosieach Uvan map Talluorh

2 Gaisgidh
5 Diuberr
10 Each Raidh
250 Tobhach Laioch

Tosieach Nechtan map Nechtan

10 Gaisgidh
15 Diuberr
5 Each Raidh
400 Tobhach Laioch

Tosieach Eithne map Nechtan

20 Each Raidh
100 Tobhach Laioch

Tosieach Melcon map Oengus

5 Gaisgidh
15 Diuberr
250 Tobhach Laioch

Tosieach Oengus map Uvan

10 Gaisgidh
10 Diuberr
250 Tobhach Laioch

Total:
70 Gaisgidh
115 Diuberr
65 Each Raidh
2,500 Tobhach

Food

50,000 lb Salted Meat
-30,000 lb Pork
-10,000 lb Venison
-10,000 lb Mutton
50,000 lb Smoked Fish
-25,000 lb Cod
-15,000 lb Herring
-10,000 lb Haddock
150,000 lb Cheese
150,000 lb Bread
50,000 lb Oats
75,000 lb Dried Fruit
-25,000 lb Apple
-25,000 lb Pear
-10,000 lb Loganberry
-10,000 lb Strawberry
-5,000 lb Prune
5,000 gal Mead
5,000 gal Ale
5,000 gal Milk

This load shall be spread over 300 carts, divided into packages of 8 stone with 24 packages to a cart

Daily rations for all warriors shall be as follows:
1/2 pint of milk and 8 oz oats at dawn, to make a broth
1 lb meat, varying according to the quartermaster's commands, with 1lb cheese, 2 lb bread, 1 lb fruit, varying, and 1 pint of mead, to be given at midday
1 lb fish, varying, 2 lb cheese, 1 lb bread, 8 oz fruit, varying, and 1 pint of ale, distributed in the evening

As the campaign progresses, these supplies shall be complimented with and then replaced by the foraging, purchasing and looting of food and drink from local supplies.

All nobles, scholars, camp-followers and any others who will not fight, are expected to provide their own food.

[Glasgia]

.

[Glasgia]

Morning,
Brude Ar's Tent,
Pictish Camp

"I'll start with good news. Gude has agreed to mount raiding parties along the coast, if I provide her with ships. The ships are being delivered by the week's end. Howvever, I have heard reports of a small force coming to meet us." Ciniod traced a line along the map that was spread out on his planning table. Around him, the Tosieach that had joined him crowded. Tactics were to be discussed.

"According to scout reports, they seem to be a reactionary force. We can either assault their position or ignore them and move towards the islands. The former wastes time and resources, though the latter risks the chance of being trapped between two forces." Ciniod met the eyes of his commanders. They knew what needed to happen.

"We are going to have to attack them. Tosieach Eithne will take our cavalry contingent. Her objective is to move around the enemy, while I lead the main force direct. We can then seperate, her harassing the country and me fighting, or crush the enemy between us. If anyone objects..." Ciniod looked around the tent. None made any other suggestions.

"We move in an hour. Ready your men seperately, then tell them who they fight for. You can each fight with your Tobhach, except for Eithne of course." He'd taken a risk giving her command. Ciniod had heard rumors among the men that he'd been sleeping else where, if you get the meaning. To send her away would quell that while complimenting her with power. If she accepted the authority willingly, it would work a trick.

An hour after midday,
Pictish Camp

Eogoran wiped his sword clean of dirt and resheathed it into the leather scabbard. He scoffed the last mouthful of bread. The weapon was then placed on his belt and he turned to his shield. Unlike the sword, it was not newly bought. His father, formerly a Gaisgidh of Tosieach Nechtan map Nechtan of Dun Nechtan, had passed it down to him. The now peeling red paint was adorned with a great orange dragon, weaving its way around the shield boss. Now it went to war again.

Eogoran adjusted his leather armour and pulled on a basic steel helmet, also handed down. Ready, he joined the group amassing behind Nechtan's banner. This was it.

"Warriors, listen. I want archers on my right, those with shields to the centre and anyone else on my right." Down the camp, this would be repeated, but to Eogoran it was Nechtan son of Nechtan son of Nechtan who spoke. Along with his sister Eithne they controlled the lands around the family fortress of Dun Nechtan. He commanded both Tobhach together.

Eogoran dutifully moved into the shield section. He noticed it was the smallest group as there was enough hunters and poachers to outnumber those wbo could afford a shield. As he was inspecting the other groups, he noticed that a small number of Gaisgidh were moving through the shields. They seemed to be selecting the youngest and biggest. Eogoran suddenly became filled with both fear and excitement. He wanted to fight like his father had, yet he feared battle. However, he was young and strong. The choice was not his.

A rough hand clamped on his soldier.

"To the front." Eogoran did as instructed. With roughly fifty men he stood, the best of the shields. Nechtan himself came and stood to adress them.

"From now on, you are part of the shield wall. You fight alongside my household troops and you fight like my household troops. You take orders only from me or the battle commander, in this case the Brude Ar himself. If any man wishes to reject my offer, he can, but let it be known that he was, is and always will be a coward."

Early Morning,
The Next Day

Caltram galloped along the plain, his horse carrying him like the wind. He looked out to the force in the distance and laughed. They were nothing compared to the mighty army that was coming for them.

"Keep up! No need to stare at those rascals! You'll spend enough time staring at their whores once we've conquered them! That said, I've heard Arguborr women have small tits!" The shouts woke him from his thoughts. Another rider had pulled back to chat, but he got no response as Caltram just raced on to catch up. Small-breasted bastards didn't know what was coming for them.

[Kazarogkai]

-Snip

[The Knockout Gun Gals]

"Sir, the diplomats from United Kingdom of Jutes and Lydds has been arrived from one hour ago, and they now waiting for your presence in the meeting room," said Collin to General John.

"Ah, Collin, talk with them, and built a military and trading alliance with them. Currently, I'll have a meeting with the military about the plan to expand our army's capabilities."

"Yes, Sir."

---------------------------------

The diplomats and the minister of foreign affairs talked to each other, barely showed any signs of disappointment. The alliance was finally reached, and now, The United Militia Empire waited for the response.

Meanwhile, fishes, and irons, had been extracted from sea and from the mines, and has been sent to the blacksmiths and traders in order to produce more pitchforks, longbows, and food.

With the abundant supplies of food and resources, new weapons had been made, about another 450 long pitchforks and 300 longbows. About 8 new longbowmen towers had been built, and the improvements to the gates, had made stronger and harder to be penetrated. 500 new men had been recruited, and now 1.000 soldiers are ready for anything.

[Kazarogkai]

Arguborr defenses on the border

The messengers that had been sent out had alerted the area of the attack and the Lord of this province and local lords surrounding were gathering their forces so they could meet the enemy. The forces stationed here as a reaction force were ordered to stand their ground and fight the approaching and delay them while the main army was being gathered in earnest. They would make a stand on this ground and hold firm, they will stand and fight

The officers looked upon the approaching army and also upon the terrain, they were facing a massive threat but luckily the terrain was on their side. A river that came from the horizon would either prevent or slow down the Picts from trying to just go around them and flank them, and forced them to have to face them directly. The area adjacent to the majority of the Arguborr defenses was shallow and would let them cross but the areas adjacent to this crossing were deep enough for 5 war canoes to take up positions. The war canoes had bowmen in them and were small and maneuverable making them difficult targets for they kept on moving around the lake.

The Arguborr had been hard at work making basic fortifications so that they could put up better resistance to the enemy. they created pit falls along the 7 hills sides, and a few other nasty traps, they also made a few tree stands which when the Picts approached would begin to fire arrows and javelins at them and use long spears if they got to close and tried to climb or cut down their trees. But the most important of the defenses were the crude trenches which crisscrossed across all the hills they were arranged so that when the Picts got to close the defenders could get out and run to another trench right above them and continue firing their ranged weapons which Arguborr units strongly preferred, this made it so that until the Picts got to the top of the hill the would always be fighting an uphill battle against a fortified Arguborr force

The commander of the Arguborr force decided to prevent them from forming up into disciplined formations he would use his 4 trebuchets, the enemy was coming in range. He sent told one of his signalers to raise the banner for the trebuchets to ready for attack. The trebuchets were loaded and primed ready to fire at any moment, they aimed for the back and also the central portion of the Pict lines and made sure they would avoid hitting the front line soldiers so as to rather than discourage but instead to encourage the Picts to move forward with haste, this would also hurt the commanders of the Picts ability to ready their troops into formations and hopefully would help make it so that the Picts would approach rather than in disciplined lines but instead in a giant mob.

Arguborr naval forces stationed along the Picts coastal lands.

The Commandat who had been summoned by the king to take the fight to the Picts homeland. His job basically was to launch classic Arguborr Amphibious tactics on the Picts western coastal lands adjacent to their own land. Also he was told to basically harass the Picts naval units and keep them from trying to launch a naval invasion, to do this he was given 6 ships each holding 20 men. This would be one of the first of many raids to come. It was a small tranquil fishing village with maybe only a dozen or so homes they had stayed far away so as to prevent from being seen and also they had waited all day and waited to attack at night. When the night came they slowly approached the shore but did not go directly to the village but instead split in half with half going a little north of the village with the other going a little south, just out of sight of the village. They dismounted their ships and approached from behind the village, this was a fishing village so they knew that most of the defenses would be placed on the coast not facing the land. They went quickly but surreptitiously and when outside the walls used small ladders and climbing ropes to scale it the guards were dispatched and they went straight into the village. The guards were beginning to be alert but never the less it was too late. The Arguborr marines with cold professionalism and shear brutality broke down doors with axes and killed the inhabitants man women children it did not matter for they had rules and they were simple:

1. Kill all
2. Loot all
3. Burn all

The men of the village though still tired and more or less hungover were caught off guard but attempted to put up resistance, civilians ran off into the distance trying to escape form the horde. At the sight of the running civilians the Soldiers chanted

"Your homes are ares, your cattle is ares, your money, your sheep, your property, your women and your land IS ARES!!!"

The Arguborr pissed off by the fact their enemy gave little resistance began a brutal slaughter howling with their dark-blue stained mouths since they came from the walls this made it so that their enemy had little ability to escape. The fires starting throughout the village were a sight to be seen in what would otherwise be a beautiful night. The Arguborr soon left the village leaving some of the ones who fell victim to their axes and Bolts in the center in a large pile that raised above the roofs. Across the streets the slaughtered lay and streams came down the streets. The doors of homes, shops and such were unhinged or completely broken, screams and crying rose into the night, the sense of safety people felt was shattered and. they let some live so that they would spread word of what happened to this village to the surrounding area and let the picts know, this was only the beginning.

[Personal Freedom]

Aererthwic, Coast of Lothian
King Lothe sat in the harsh stone castle, Aererthwic, raised in a year, with rocks dragged in sledges, and built simply to endure. His battered face with a long grey beard captured an expression somewhere between grief and worry. There was distress in the lands. The Saxons, Lyds, Galls, and other people's could be the next Romans. The people would endure as ever. The discussion with the various nobles and tribal leaders had shown that they too felt that they must gather the armies. Lothian was going to put up a fight.

An eastern moor near the border with the Lyds
Urien, son of Gyrdion, descended from Lir himself, burst out laughing as his red hair blew in the wind. This laughter was brought be his slaughtering of a tribe of Saxons earlier. Losing only five men, he killed them all, took their weapons, and burned their bodies. Thirty men and woman burned on the moor.
These inhospitable moors had been reserved for the "barbarians". Urien did not reject the label. It fact he empathized it. He wore his hair long and dirty, was know for savageness, and collected heads of his greatest enemies and beheaded all those his men killed. He beheaded them to kill the soul of course, but this just seemed like savageness to his enemies. He was slightly distressed, even as he laughed, for times were changing. More and more Saxons were being driven into his moor. Lothe II had promised his moor to remain reserved for his tribe alone. He would get Lothe to hold up on his bargain. The Saxon's lands would burn.

[Glasgia]

Afternoon,
A Mile Away From Enemy Forces

Ciniod's horse cantered forward. In the distance, he could see the Arguborr army now. Their trebuchets were looming pieces of technological masterpiece, a huge threat. Raising his hand, the entire Kay force was ordered to halt at what he estimated to be a mile out of range. Though the weapons were designed for siege and inaccurate, a single hit could destroy his plans. Gathering his nobles, they would discuss the matter.

An hour later

Ciniod cursed softly as he left the tent. Endless discussion had brought no ideas, just hope that they could survive anyway. Siege weapons were notoriously inaccurate, often missing the entirety of whatever town they were besieging. He hoped they could miss an entire army, multiple times. With this slim hope, he trotted his horse forwards, in front of his army.

“Form up!” Though they had not worked out the weakness of the machines, they had at least made some basic strategy. Now it was exercised: out of the seventy professionals and the two hundred strong hand-picked section of the Tobhach turned into Gaisgidhs, they had a decent shield wall. These men would link shields in the first row and create two behind, making a formidable defence. Behind them, the council had decided to place four hundred levy troops who possessed throwing weapons, though only those who looked like they would easily clear the soldiers in front. Meanwhile, the flanks were made up of the Diuberr – again their numbers beefed up by roughly four hundred the stronger of the levies. Their lines now curved back, creating a bow shape and protecting the rest of the Tobhach who were grouped at the back purely for pushing power.

Like this they advanced. Ready to battle side by side, shoulder to shoulder and with glory in the back of their minds, they advanced. Whether fighting with axe, sword, spear or tool, they advanced.

Cavalry

They had been riding for hours now, allowing them to travel almost a mile behind the enemy position. Despite this, the river divided them from their foe and it was at this that Eithne cursed. She rode on a brown stallion, his tough hide stretched over powerful muscles. Her armour was expensive, made of steel chain links and hand fitted into a tailored coat. Over the top of the she wore a tartan shawl, a basic check pattern of red, blue and green. Her spear was strapped to her back and in a scabbard she wore a sword of Frankish steel, though it had been forged in Pictish lands. Galloping forward, she manoeuvred with her knees, searching for a crossing point.

There, in the distance. Eithne kicked her stallion forward, racing to confirm her sighting. The river split into two, smaller, tributaries that flowed into it. She guessed they were easily crossable separately, pausing in the land in between. Leading the way, her troops followed and they arrived on the other side, behind the enemy forces.

Midnight,
Small Fishing Village,
Arguborr

The ships sailed in silently. The huge pieces of cloth swung in the wind, pushing their hulls onwards. On board, men waited. Talorc gripped his coak tightly against his mail, protecting it from the sea spray.

He had received the messengers separately, two days apart. The first was from the Brude Ar himself. While the main invasion force struck deep into enemy territory, he had been given orders to harass the Arguborr coasts. A day later, the fleet had arrived as well as their captain’s fifty Gaisgidh to man them. With five ships, this was a bare fraction of what he could take and Talorc had sent his own messengers out to raise a small army of volunteers.

The next day had brought worse tidings. A village had been raided by the Arguborr. They had pillaged the settlement, destroying houses and taking everything of value. He had been ready to send multiple forces, repaying the enemy double, before his volunteer force came. They were only a hundred large, not the surplus he had expected. However, with his Gaisgidh, it was enough to fully man three ships and put two to patrol duty, keeping a watchful eye for counter-raids.

So now they came, ready to take back what had been lost from their hearts. Many of the volunteers had lost relatives in the raid on Pictish soil and they wanted revenge. In the distance, their target slowly emerged from the fog.

The fleet sprung to life. Banners were raised and men rushed to take their shields. Helmets were fitted and belts tightened, readying for the fight. Carefully, the captains took the ships alongside the shore and turned gently, beaching the ships. Ninety men, all battle-ready, leapt ashore and began the pillaging.

Early Morning

Vincegoritix woke to the smell of smoke. He rubbed his eyes and stood, only to fall as fresh pain stabbed into his leg. Looking down, a large cut had half severed his leg. It all came back to him now. The ships as they came ashore. The war cries of the warriors as they leapt ashore. The flames, spreading from house to house. Screams of woman and children as their husbands were dragged away. He should’ve been dead, another corpse. He had been savagely kicked aside by a large warrior, the action followed up instinctively by an axe swing. He had lain there, motionless, as every adult in the village was thrown into a large fire. Those who tried to escape had been laughed at and hacked down. He had still watched, slowly getting fainter, as the raiders had gathered their loot and left.

In the distance, a child cried. He moved to stand again, but fresh blood trickled out of the wound and he slipped back into unconsciousness.

[Personal Freedom]

Bradgar Tor
After several weeks of fighting Saxons on the Western border, Lothe II had destroyed many tribes, and lost less than men. True that those he had fought hadn't exactly been warriors... Images flooded back to him...

A Saxon Camp, 3 Days Back
(Clamor of Warfare) The king battles with several Saxon men armed with various implements. One is slashed by sword in the stomach, gurgles on blood and clasped. A swarthy, muscled, and mustached man wearing primitive hide armor swings an axe at him, glancing the kings arm. The king stabs the man in a stomach, and he falls cursing. The last man facing him falls at the same instant, slain by an arrow in his eye. Urien, the tribesman, steps into a tent. A shrill scream penetrates the air. The king follows the sound. In a a tent lies several woman. One already dead from a spear. Another stares at him .Her eyes were the color of the sea, her hair fair, her build slim, her expression pleading...

After the slaughter at the last camp the king sat on a granite floor. Contemplating what could be done.
"We must resettle these people," the king stated, quite alone. He then realized the emptiness of the room. Ever since his wife's death he had these feelings of loneliness. The Saxon woman's face haunted him. It appeared to plea to him. "Please."
That was when he viewed himself in a seeing pool. His hair, once brown, had gone gray. His beard was long, neat, and equally as gray. His eyes were still a piercing emerald green. That was when it came to him.
Later
In the main room he announced to his nobles. "It is a time I get another wife, send invitations to all the Celtic kingdoms. I will be married again." The nobles cheered to this.

OoC: Any Celtic or Nordic Kingdom is welcome to submit a candidate. The others can come and wish good luck, but are unlikely to be accepted.

[The Knockout Gun Gals]

Bradgar Tor
After several weeks of fighting Saxons on the Western border, Lothe II had destroyed many tribes, and lost less than men. True that those he had fought hadn't exactly been warriors... Images flooded back to him...

A Saxon Camp, 3 Days Back
(Clamor of Warfare) The king battles with several Saxon men armed with various implements. One is slashed by sword in the stomach, gurgles on blood and clasped. A swarthy, muscled, and mustached man wearing primitive hide armor swings an axe at him, glancing the kings arm. The king stabs the man in a stomach, and he falls cursing. The last man facing him falls at the same instant, slain by an arrow in his eye. Urien, the tribesman, steps into a tent. A shrill scream penetrates the air. The king follows the sound. In a a tent lies several woman. One already dead from a spear. Another stares at him .Her eyes were the color of the sea, her hair fair, her build slim, her expression pleading...

After the slaughter at the last camp the king sat on a granite floor. Contemplating what could be done.
"We must resettle these people," the king stated, quite alone. He then realized the emptiness of the room. Ever since his wife's death he had these feelings of loneliness. The Saxon woman's face haunted him. It appeared to plea to him. "Please."
That was when he viewed himself in a seeing pool. His hair, once brown, had gone gray. His beard was long, neat, and equally as gray. His eyes were still a piercing emerald green. That was when it came to him.
Later
In the main room he announced to his nobles. "It is a time I get another wife, send invitations to all the Celtic kingdoms. I will be married again." The nobles cheered to this.

OoC: Any Celtic or Nordic Kingdom is welcome to submit a candidate. The others can come and wish good luck, but are unlikely to be accepted.

General John the Mighty, offers his charming and beautiful daughter, Celine the Charming, to become your queen. In an instance, a letter was sent:

To Lothe II,

I, General John the Mighty, offers my daughter, Celine the Charming, to become your wife. She's very beautiful and charming. She's also a skilled swordswoman. I hope, with this, we can establish a strong alliance.

Regard,

General John The Mighty

[Kazarogkai]

Arguborr Lands on the Mainland

High General Andre inspected his army and the logistics of resisting the invasion of his peoples lands. He and the other High Generals had hoped that the Reaction force would be able to delay the Invading enemy for long enough and of course inflict as many casualties as possible. The remainder of the remaining Arguborr Marine Reservist were Raised and all standing units were also assembled into an army under the command of High General Andre who had been asked personally by the Arguborr King Kalvin Vac Togg to lead his armies. Andre was a distinguished general who had proven his worth with fighting pirates in the Shetlands and also bandits on the border areas, He was known for his strategy of endless assault which relied on a relatively set piece battle using advance units who would engage the enemy and then rapidly retreat to set positions until they returned to what was known as the main Body who would then charge and engage the enemy. He Relied heavily on Light infantry and being the first on the battlefield.

Arguborr Units were divided into military units of 100 Men known as Companies these were further divided into sections of 10 known as Squads. 10 companies would make a Regiment but these were only used in the most largest of armies for the most part only Companies were used. A Company is always lead by a Low Officer Specifically known as a Captain, Regiments are Lead by a Major. The 10 men within a squad were expected to make sure of the well being of one another and were always trained together, unless a soldier was killed then that one would be replaced. Officers always have Horses and also a Banner to show both rank and also to show different formations.

Arguborr lands were filled with many water ways including rivers, creeks, Lakes, springs, etc all throughout the land. This meant that though horses were used for transportation the majority of transport occurred via Canoe so as such all squads were equipped with a single Canoe to transport them when they had to pass by water ways. The Canoe itself combined with the cloaks used by all Arguborr troops and some poles could be made into an improvised temporary shelter for when camping. The Arguborr rulers of ages past did their best to document the waterways of the Arguborr lands as extensively as possible so that rather than making roads they could just rely on transporting their units on them. The extensive knowledge of the waterways gave the Arguborr an improvised Road system throughout the kingdom allowing them to move men and supplies throughout every reach of the kingdom with both speed and ease. This did have on advantage of making it so that anyone who entered Arguborr lands would have to come prepared for their were pretty much no actual roads in the kingdom severely effecting travel time for anyone coming through.

The Arguborr army Numbered 2200 men(1400 irregulars, 800 regulars)was organized into 5 Separate Parts each with their own roles, breakdown as follows:

Advance guard: serve as initial storm troops or bait troops- getting an enemy to reveal his position and strength, also meant as skirmishers and scouts for the main force. will when the battle becomes pitched will after harassing the enemy withdraw
Composition
-400 Skirmishers (Irregulars armed with slings and Javelins)
Commander: Low General Jamie

Main Body: Meant as the Main body of troops who would engage the enemy directly troops here primarily armed with The Arguborr Romphea and usually the artillery and the best units in general are placed here though not necessarily the most.
Composition
-400 Marines(all of them Regulars, fist line armed with Rompheas but the remaining lines armed with Battle Axes)
Commander: Low General Feandan

Two wings-left and right: used for Flanking Actions and might attempt to carry out encirclement of the opposing force, or even strike at the rear of the enemy if given the opportunity.
Composition
-1000 Irregulars(Primarily armed with Arguborr war axes but a few have Bows)
Commander: Low General Ewan

Rear- guard: Used to protect the Back Flank of the Army but may also be used as reserve force to help bolster any of the other Formations during battle.
Composition
-300 Regulars(Armed Primarily with Rompheas)
Commander: Low General Baird

Personal Guard: protect the king or high ranking nobles or generals in the field, may join in battle if ordered too.
Composition
-100 Mounted Regulars
Commander: Low General Roy

High General Andre was ready to engage the enemy once he had found them and made sure his army was prepared. They were going to utilize Foraging of the local area and also the Arguborrs "Inn" system to supply the force. The "Inn" system was basically established by the second king of the Arguborr it was a mandate requiring that all settlements were required to maintain 2 separate warehouses one for local purposes one for Military purposes. The Military Warehouse would be stocked with supplies so that when an army passed by they could be resupplied, the Military warehouse normally was not used by anyone except the Military unless in times of hardship when the King Permitted the settlements to use the supplies stored there to help them. Also along the many waterways used like roads by the Arguborr the King erected large numbers of Supply stations which were staffed by nearby Villages and would carry supplies and would allow the army to rest when needed. The Army when on the march would assemble into columns of troops that approached in single file line so as to prevent the enemy from knowing their numbers and then when they needed to assemble for battle these columns would converge together into their different defined Parts. During the March He permitted his soldiers to sing patriotic songs in order to help with moral one of the most popular was "The Kings march".


Arguborr defenses on the border

The Arguborrs seeing the enemy forming up readied themselves they were to hold their ground at all cost even if it cost them their lives. Seeing that they were now being surrounded on both sides only made their conviction grow for now. The Arguborrs began to sing an old war song known as "Lament for the Fallen" it was to honor the ones who were going to die in the battle to come(You ). They waited for the time to come with great anticipation.

[Landenburg]

Durnovaria, population of 15,000

Durnovaria begins expanding west. Her troops stick to rural areas, the 200 that were sent to do that job that is. 500 were going to take villages and towns in the west.

Message to all the Kingdoms

Durnovaria is looking for allies, please reply to this if you are interested, that we may further this proposition.

[Personal Freedom]

Aererthwic, Coast of Lothian
The Catholic ceremony was held first, in the inner bailey, away from the "heathen" solders. The king stood solemnly through the wedding. He felt the customs were a bit strange, but he was able to see her truly. She lived up to her part as charming throughout this ceremony, but know it was time for the next ceremony. The Druids blessed the marriage with thier sacrifice of a hare and their prayers. His men were here to see this marriage. Now they were ready to feast.
The king stood first ready to speak."This marriage between Queen Celine and I, shows that we are not friendless. King John, the mighty, is willing to coexist peacefully. This shows we are ready to expand our influence. Brothers, we will be mightier than anything ever was. The ale will flow freer than ever. The savage will be tamed, the opressors banished, Danna will bless us, and wrath will fall on our enemies. Now let us feast to this vision. Let us feast to our wonderful queen. Let us feast to the grandeur to come"


Later
A Durnovarian ship pulled into port bringing a message. The king responded quickly.

All who wish to ally with us are free to do so, but what is your kingdom's goal? We are intrigued, yet we know nothing about you. Who are you? We are entertained by the author but explain yourself.

[Personal Freedom]

Aererthwic, Coast of Lothian
The Catholic ceremony was held first, in the inner bailey, away from the "heathen" solders. The king stood solemnly through the wedding. He felt the customs were a bit strange, but he was able to see her truly. She lived up to her part as charming throughout this ceremony, but know it was time for the next ceremony. The Druids blessed the marriage with thier sacrifice of a hare and their prayers. His men were here to see this marriage. Now they were ready to feast.
The king stood first ready to speak."This marriage between Queen Celine and I, shows that we are not friendless. King John, the mighty, is willing to coexist peacefully. This shows we are ready to expand our influence. Brothers, we will be mightier than anything ever was. The ale will flow freer than ever. The savage will be tamed, the opressors banished, Danna will bless us, and wrath will fall on our enemies. Now let us feast to this vision. Let us feast to our wonderful queen. Let us feast to the grandeur to come"


Later
A Durnovarian ship pulled into port bringing a message. The king responded quickly.

All who wish to ally with us are free to do so, but what is your kingdom's goal? We are intrigued, yet we know nothing about you. Who are you? We are entertained by the offer but explain yourself.

[Glasgia]

Battle of the Seven Valleys,
An t-Samhain – A’ Bhliadhna Ur

Cantering forward on his horse, Ciniod was aware that they were now in range of the catapults. In the distance, the war cries could be heard from the defenders, as well as a chanting. Though the professionals in his men were cold and silent, the levy were singing various songs to ease nerves and prepare for the battle. Maybe a decent tune would be better. He nodded at a drummer who began to drum a slow rhythmic beat. Unknowingly, the men began to march in time with it, making Ciniod smile at their subconscious professionalism. A low drone from the horns went up, slowly layering at different pitches. Finally the bagpipes kicked in and those who knew the tune waited patiently.

“March! March! Sword in our hands, for our kin and our lands we march over the border!
March! March! Fight for your lives and let them know, the great men of Kay are marching before them!
For country and king, let go of your sins and let us march over the border…”

With banners fluttering in the wind, to the tune, they marched. The drums became accompanied by the clash of sword beating shield as they marched. With battle on their minds and glory in their sights, they marched.

Cavalry Portion

The cavalry fanned out behind the Arguborr. It was just a matter of time until they struck now. Eithne ran a hand through her hair, impatiently waiting. She had never had to experience the discipline needed in battle before, just hear the tales of the glorious fights. Her uncle might’ve cloven a man in half straight down his body, from head to groin, but the poets seemed to forget about the bit beforehand. Somewhere she could hear a clash of tunes. In her detachment was a single mounted hornman, but she had decided that she would use it for signalling only. On the same warrior’s back her banner flew, a sign that would scare those who recognised it. Her brother had flown it as he terrorised the coasts of Britannia and her father had fought to unify the Picts underneath that banner. Now she would fight with it too, another name in the family records.

Arguborr Coastline

Caiomhe screamed as her father was grabbed by the soldiers. Their mail brushed against the door frame as they pulled him outside. Heavy boots found the man’s face again and again. He began to cry as the axe came down, ending another life. Fearing for her life, Caiomhe ran out the back door, away from the death and destruction.

Racing through wheat fields, she began to slow down. A mile away now, she was safe for the moment. In every direction smoke rose, whether from embers the week before or the product of a new attack. It seemed every day that another ship would land and leave hours later packed with valuables and various other loot.