God Wills It! (IC/AH/Nation)

by **Chinniwana** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 12:06 pm

(Art by Jason Askey)

God Wills It!

"Oh, race of Latins, race race chosen and beloved by God as shines forth in very many of your works set apart from all nations by the situation of your country, as well as by your catholic faith and the honor of the holy church! To you our discourse is addressed and for you our exhortation is intended. We wish you to know what a grievous cause has led us to Your country, what peril threatening you and all the faithful has brought us.

From the confines of Jerusalem and the city of Constantinople a horrible tale has gone forth and very frequently has been brought to our ears, namely, that a race from the kingdom of the Persians, an accursed race, a race utterly alienated from God, a generation forsooth which has not directed its heart and has not entrusted its spirit to God, has invaded the lands of those Christians and has depopulated them by the sword, pillage and fire; it has led away a part of the captives into its own country, and a part it has destroyed by cruel tortures; it has either entirely destroyed the churches of God or appropriated them for the rites of its own religion. They destroy the altars, after having defiled them with their uncleanness. They circumcise the Christians, and the blood of the circumcision they either spread upon the altars or pour into the vases of the baptismal font. When they wish to torture people by a base death, they perforate their navels, and dragging forth the extremity of the intestines, bind it to a stake; then with flogging they lead the victim around until the viscera having gushed forth the victim falls prostrate upon the ground. Others they bind to a post and pierce with arrows. Others they compel to extend their necks and then, attacking them with naked swords, attempt to cut through the neck with a single blow. What shall I say of the abominable rape of the women? To speak of it is worse than to be silent. The kingdom of the Greeks is now dismembered by them and deprived of territory so vast in extent that it cannot be traversed in a march of two months. On whom therefore is the labor of avenging these wrongs and of recovering this territory incumbent, if not upon you? You, upon whom above other nations God has conferred remarkable glory in arms, great courage, bodily activity, and strength to humble the hairy scalp of those who resist you.

Let the deeds of your ancestors move you and incite your minds to manly achievements; the glory and greatness of king Charles the Great, and of his son Louis, and of your other kings, who have destroyed the kingdoms of the pagans, and have extended in these lands the territory of the holy church. Let the holy sepulcher of the Lord our Savior, which is possessed by unclean nations, especially incite you, and the holy places which are now treated with ignominy and irreverently polluted with their filthiness. Oh, most valiant soldiers and descendants of invincible ancestors, be not degenerate, but recall the valor of your progenitors.

But if you are hindered by love of children, parents and wives, remember what the Lord says in the Gospel, 'He that loveth father or mother more than me, is not worthy of me.' 'Every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands for my name's sake shall receive an hundredfold and shall inherit everlasting life.' Let none of your possessions detain you, no solicitude for your family affairs, since this land which you inhabit, shut in on all sides by the seas and surrounded by the mountain peaks, is too narrow for your large population; nor does it abound in wealth; and it furnishes scarcely food enough for its cultivators. Hence it is that you murder one another, that you wage war, and that frequently you perish by mutual wounds. Let therefore hatred depart from among you, let your quarrels end, let wars cease, and let all dissensions and controversies slumber. Enter upon the road to the Holy Sepulcher; wrest that land from the wicked race, and subject it to yourselves. That land which as the Scripture says 'floweth with milk and honey,' was given by God into the possession of the children of Israel Jerusalem is the navel of the world; the land is fruitful above others, like another paradise of delights. This the Redeemer of the human race has made illustrious by His advent, has beautified by residence, has consecrated by suffering, has redeemed by death, has glorified by burial. This royal city, therefore, situated at the centre of the world, is now held captive by His enemies, and is in subjection to those who do not know God, to the worship of the heathens. She seeks therefore and desires to be liberated, and does not cease to implore you to come to her aid. From you especially she asks succor, because, as we have already said, God has conferred upon you above all nations great glory in arms. Accordingly undertake this journey for the remission of your sins, with the assurance of the imperishable glory of the kingdom of heaven.

God Wills It! God Wills It!

Most beloved brethren, today is manifest in you what the Lord says in the Gospel, "Where two or three are gathered together in my name there am I in the midst of them." Unless the Lord God had been present in your spirits, all of you would not have uttered the same cry. For, although the cry issued from numerous mouths, yet the origin of the cry was one. Therefore I say to you that God, who implanted this in your breasts, has drawn it forth from you. Let this then be your war-cry in combats, because this word is given to you by God. When an armed attack is made upon the enemy, let this one cry be raised by all the soldiers of God: It is the will of God! It is the will of God!

And we do not command or advise that the old or feeble, or those unfit for bearing arms, undertake this journey; nor ought women to set out at all, without their husbands or brothers or legal guardians. For such are more of a hindrance than aid, more of a burden than advantage. Let the rich aid the needy; and according to their wealth, let them take with them experienced soldiers. The priests and clerks of any order are not to go without the consent of their bishop; for this journey would profit them nothing if they went without permission of these. Also, it is not fitting that laymen should enter upon the pilgrimage without the blessing of their priests.

Whoever, therefore, shall determine upon this holy pilgrimage and shall make his vow to God to that effect and shall offer himself to Him as a, living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, shall wear the sign of the cross of the Lord on his forehead or on his breast. When, truly, having fulfilled his vow be wishes to return, let him place the cross on his back between his shoulders. Such, indeed, by the twofold action will fulfill the precept of the Lord, as He commands in the Gospel, 'He that taketh not his cross and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.'"

- Pope Urban II, and the Clergy Present, at the Council of Rome, circa 1905

by **Chinniwana** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 12:08 pm

OOC

ACCEPTED STATES:
Barapam - England
Wawz - Romuva
Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States - Cordoba
Deutschess Kaiserriech - Sweden
Black Party - The Northern Empire
Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune - Sicily
Crockerland - Osel
Valtrona - Georgia
Nordschwaben - Swabia
Finland SSR - Nalsha
Ruskland-Preuben - Al'iibadia
Greater Liverpool - Kara-Khanid Khanate
Fahran - Khazar Khanate
Strala - Bulgarian Empire
Nea Byzantia - Roman Empire
Free States of Agnostican - Eire
Eggistan - Albalad

CURRENT WARS:
Fatamid Caliphate vs. Seljuk Empire
Sicily (Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune) vs. Holy Roman Empire
Kara-Khanid (Greater Liverpool) vs. Seljuk Empire
CRUSADES:
Roman Empire (Nea Byzantia), Holy Roman Empire, Eire (Free States of Agnostics), Normandy, Brittany, Bulgarian Empire (Strala), Georgia (Valtrona) vs. Seljuk Empire, Fatamid Caliphate

by **Chinniwana** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 12:18 pm

Year 1095, September to December

EVENTS:
(20) WESTERN EUROPE (British Isles, Hispania, France, Germania, Western Scandinavia)
(6) Poor crop management has resulted in a weaker yield in the harvest, compared to last year. All Western States suffer a -1 in Preparation, but a +1 in Combat.

(16) AFRICAN (Mali, Morocco, Sahara, Tripolitania, Central Africa, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia)
(9) The Winter is slightly colder then it normally is. All African States take a -1 in Retreat.

THE CRUSADE HAS BEEN CALLED
The First Crusade has been called; a Holy War by Catholic States, mostly in Western Europe, to go to the Middle East to Liberate Jerusalem. All Catholic States that accept this Call gain a +3 in Combat and a +3 in Retreat.

by **The Black Party** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 1:09 pm

The Northern Liege

"Dieu Sauve Le Regent"

November 27, 1095 - Port of Hanseatisch, The Northern Liege

"Faites attention! Faites attention! Le Căpitanul est arrivée!"

On the busy docks of the Port City of Hanseatisch, patrolling Safeguardsmen were called to attention as Lăzurică "Căpitanul" Livonian rode up to the garrison on horseback. Lăzurică, Consort to the Regent, was making good use of her position by taking advantage of all the perks the comes with the position of regional governor, but administration has it's downsides.

Clad in white royal uniforms, still bearing the French flag, Safeguardsmen were sure not to make eye-contact. Lăzurică cleared her throat, and gave her morning addressment to the garrison. Royalty as she was, Lăzurică was never popular among the aristocracy and especially not with the Safeguards. Her lack of French blood made her seem an undeserving authoritarian at best, and a witch responsible for hypnotising The Regent at worst. Furthermore, her lack of a proper French accent made her French-speaking a proper ear sore.

The Economic Hub of The Liege, The Port City of Hanseatisch.

"La récolte de cette année n’est pas satisfaisante, nous inviterons des diplomates du Nord pour discuter de l’expansion du commerce ..."

Dear lord, for how long would she speak?

La "Căpitanul" eventually finished her addressment, and rode back to the National Palace to continue doing God's work. Among other things, she detailed the plan for compensation of the relatively poor harvest this season.

The Northern Liege was never a stranger to the stockpile, and come the settling of Winter, it was within the Regent's best interest in making sure The Liege would survive the winter. To compensate for the poor harvest, The Regent on the advice of his scholar, Fascio Gaël, immediately dispatched Royal Envoys of mediocre calibre to re-open foreign relations with the Osel; Eastern Frontier, and The Nordic Union of States, two nations considered crucial in maintaining The Liege's trading economy. A good plan on the surface, what the plan didn't account for was the extremely foreign culture the Eastern Frontier. Up until this point, the abnormality of meeting an Osel-Merchant was the most Liegian's knew about their land of mystery and magic. The Regent and his staff could only hope that the Frontier was at least somewhat as civilised as they, should they be lucky enough to meet with a central authority at all, and not some Tribal Chief.

The Liege's North & Northeast Diplomacy Plan.

However, these things take time, and for every long-term solution, an immediate one was required. With the local baker being deprived a dozen pounds of wheat or so, the common thief would only be emboldened. La "Căpitanul" was more then pleased to announce that her favourite garrison would be receiving refined equipment, and a dozen fresh recruits to ensure that peace is kept in the busy city. She had to be good for something.

But what La "Căpitanul" did not announce, was immediate news of Pope Urban II at the Council of Rome's call to arms for all Christians. Such a brazen announcement would only stir up a riotous atmosphere in the otherwise relaxed city, something definitely not needed with the poor harvest this season. Furthermore, to isolate the sacrilegious workforce would be a further blow to the booming Liegian economy, not to mention The Regent's own adviser, Fascio Gaël as mentioned earlier, was... "less-then fully-Catholic" to put it in nice terms, and stringent religious divide would only weaken the currently united state.

But La "Căpitanul" knew that she had time. It would take days, if not weeks for messengers and word of mouth to reach the Northern Company, so far from Sicily. As she rode back to the Hanseatisch Palace, she began running through her head border-control plans to delay the "word of God" for as long as possible.

Summary;
> The Liege is struck with a less-then-average harvest.
> The Liege sends Diplomatic Missionary's to Osel and Sweden.
> The Liege bolsters it's Honour Guard in the capital city.
> Pope Urban II's "Crusade Speech" is withheld from the public.

by **Nordschwaben** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 1:34 pm

At the Castle of Hohenstaufen atop the mount that shares its name, a messenger boy arrives and delivers news from Rome itself. A letter from Pope Urban II, calling the Duke of Swabia, Fredrick I of the house of Hohenstaufen, to join him in retaking the Holy Land and Anatolia from the Seljuk Turks to the East.

Fredrick I writes back, saying he simply cannot send troops due to the recent bad harvest and because of the circumstances his duchy finds itself in with his pretender-duke rivals to the South. Sending troops to the East would leave him vulnerable to an attack, he explains in his letter, and it is with great sorrow that he cannot participate in this holy battle for Christendom. He wishes them good luck and God's blessing in the upcoming battles.

But the duke has an ulterior motive for not sending support. While it was true that his nation was experiencing quite a poor harvest this year and that his rivals have continued to be a thorn in his side, he simply would not grant anything to the likes of Pope Urban. Not after he coronated a Frank as the King of all Romans. A Gaul, of all people. Fredrick could not stand the thought of it. But he couldn't bring this up to the Pope himself - he'd be excommunicated. So instead, he lists the tangible reasons for why he cannot send anything.

As Fredrick sends the messenger back off to Rome, he makes his way to his chambers to rest and wait for the Pope's response. Meanwhile, the messenger spreads the word of the holy crusade of the East across the Swabian countryside. To every city and every passerby he encountered, he would say "The pope has called for a crusade against the Muslims! God wills it!" He would do this all the way back to Rome.

Summary:
Fredrick I receives and declines the call to arms by the Pope
Swabia is experiencing lower-than-average crop yields
News of the crusades spreads around the duchy

by **Free States of Agnosicstan** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 2:05 pm

The Kingdom of Éire

9th September, 1095
It was a fairly cold autumn morning dawning of the Emerald Isles, a night after a long and righteous feast held by King Tairdelbach mac Murchad Ó Briain, attended by every petty king of Éire to celebrate one last time before the coming winter. The harvest had not been especially good, if early signs were to show, so it seemed likely that a harsh winter would follow, and so many of the Kings in attendance had departed early or drunk to return home and ensure that their realms would be in good standing for such. As such, for those that remained later into the night, the various Ó Briain's invited to the feast and those kings who lived closer to the seat of the High King in Munster, the feast continued.

As such, the night for many became a blur, and the elderly kings passing was not noticed until the following morning. It was not clear whether he had been poisoned by his enemies, an incompetent cook or if he had passed in a more peaceable manner in his bed after the evening had ended, but what was clear was that the King of Éire would have to convene, and due to the reforms of both the late Tairdelbach and his father, select among the members of the Ó Briain dynasty to decide upon their new King. Something that would take time and likely create conflict between the many sons of the late Tairdelbach, as well as his brothers.

However, it was clear among most that there were perhaps three or four likely candidates for the throne, all of them sons in some capacity or another to King Tairdelbach. His eldest, Murchad mac Tairdelbach, an unassuming and unambitious, older man who clearly did not had much interest in the throne at all, preferring a life of comfort and of little responsibility, was a choice merely on account of being the eldest, perhaps if the kings of Éire sought to follow in a similar fashion to the Kings of Sasana or further afield. However, his popularity even among the Kings was wavering at best, and his claim was likely to be considered and dismissed.

Indeed, it seemed more likely that the three youngest of the Kings sons would be considered, all of them more distinguished young men than their elders or uncles. The eldest of the three, Ristéard mac Tairdelbach, at thirty-four, was well known to be an ambitious, if often uncaring young man who had worked hard to prove himself a careful manager of the estates he had been granted, making them more profitable than any of the others. Well known to be diligent, if not exactly free of sin, he is considered by many to be a solid choice to grant the Kingship too, even if he is likely to further extend the powers of the High King.

The second eldest, Éibhear mac Tairdelbach, at twenty-nine, followed closely in his fathers footsteps as a masterful diplomat and negotiator, and has proven himself to be quite popular among the Kings of the realm. Indeed, his diplomatic prowess has earned him many strong supporters. Considered to be an incredibly stable, if unambitious, leader, it is likely that this son would retain the current path of his father, attempting to negotiate and gradually increase the power of the High Kingship.

Finally, Tairdelbach's youngest son, Cróchán mac Tairdelbach, at only nineteen is a well-known and prestigious fighter, with a sound mind for tactics far ahead of his time. Incredibly pious and proper, his ambition seems to range outside of the Kingdom itself, to expansion, growth and centralisation. This stance has, however, worried many of the Kings of the realm, and it is unlikely that this son's claim would be seriously considered, even with his skills taken into account.

21st September, 1095

The death of High King Tairdelbach has gradually reached each of the Kings of Éire, excluding of course the King of Ulster and the King of Mann, whose distant realms would take a while longer to receive the news. A date around a months time from the current was declared, to allow for each king to meet and decide upon whom they shall vote. Each son of Tairdelbach would take this time attempting to petition the various petty Kings of Éire and secure as many votes as possible; at least, those that cared enough or were ambitious enough to try. In the mean time, it was declared that a council would determine matters of the realm.

November 22nd - November 30th, 1095
With the various Kings finally in place to meet and discuss their selection from the various Ó Briain's, the meeting was declared and for the enterity of the day, a long debate was held. Over the next several days, with terse negotiations and last-minute petitioning from the various Princes, the Kings had come to a decision upon whom they would vote. By a narrow margin, Éibhear mac Tairdelbach was declared High King of Éire and the various Kings swore their loyalty to him; all except the King of Meath, who had reportedly stormed out after a terse discussion with the King of Mann. The young king was, however, quick to make a decision, and needing to remove his two ambitious brothers, made several swift declarations.

The first concerned Cróchán mac Tairdelbach, his young and pious brother, who had pulled his candidacy on the 29th and requested to make preparations for joining the Crusade. This request was swiftly accepted, and many of the gathered Kings believed the brothers had made an agreement on what would occur, in a last-minute fashion. The second concerned Ristéard mac Tairdelbach, who was ordered to raise an army from men loyal to the King of Ulster and march towards Meath to secure its loyalty, while ensuring that he would be out of the way and commanding troops that belonged to the High King should he decide to be ambitious.

Summary
-High King Tairdelbach died and his second-youngest son, Éibhear, was elected High King by the various Kings of the realm.
-Éire is experiencing lower crop yields and is expected to struggle through the coming winter.
-The King of Meath refused to swear loyalty to the High King, and is considered in open rebellion.
-The youngest son of Tairdelbach, Cróchán, has been permitted to prepare to join the crusade and gather men from Éire to do so.

by **The Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 3:41 pm

September 24th, 1095 A.D., 1854 A.U.C
Syrcusae, AKA Verum Capitus, AKA Novum Roma
The Imperial Palace

The Imperator stood in front of a simple gilded curule reading the short letter sent by Cardinal Julius back to his seat of power. The Papacy had readily and truely lost all sense it appeared, attempting to call the faithful to arms. Looking out in between the pillars of his roman style meeting hall, Trajan I snorted before throwing the letter into a nearby brazier and pronounced to his assembled Councillors "It would appear to be the will of St. Peter's line for us to gather our men and send them to die in the Orient so that the prince who calls himself the leader of the faithful may establish himself new vassals in the east."

A few of his councillors looked shocked at this statement, before Trajan met their glares and said "Let us not pretend that the Papacy has been tainted with greed and corruption over the past few decades. You know this history as well as I do. The false emperor Carolus and Leo III corrupted God's seat on earth when they granted it power over land that the church has no rights over ruling. I say to you, the devil has sunk his hooks deep into the church, and this great folly that they expect us to take part in now shall result in the downfall of the false emperors."

Trajan stepped over to a small map of southern Italy. To the North lied the Pope and the puppets of the False Emperor. Untouchable at the moment, but soon, when this fool's errand had exhausted their men and steel, then they would bend the knee to the true Imperator. However, to the west and well within reach of the Imperial navy lay Sardinia and Corsica. Control over them would be imperative to remaining in power over Maremeum. Drawing a small dagger from his belt, Trajan struck the map at Sardinia, leaving the blade stuck in the island. Turning to a man in black armor, the Imperator said in a voice dripping with authority "Prepare the Legions, ready the navy. It is the will of your Emperor that the Provincia be returned to imperial control with haste."

Trajan grabbed the man by the shoulder and whispered in his ear "Do this, and the title of Caesar shall be yours Marius. Along with a Despotship of your new lands I think."

The man pulled back and donned his helmet, before saluting Trajan and shouting "Ave Verum Imperator. Thy will shall be made truth!"

Returning to his curule, Trajan watched as Marius left the meeting hall with haste. Gesturing for a scribe to approach, Trajan began to dictate several diplomatic letters to be drafted and sent out to the various governors and nobles of the realm, telling them to have their troops ready to march North should weakness be indicated by any of the traitors to the North. Finally, he said "Also, draft a notice for Cardinal Julian. Indicate for him to return to St. George's at once and to begin research into historical precedence regarding an unfit Vicar."

The scribe began to shake with fear as he jotted down the letter to Trajan's specifics. Trajan smirked slightly at this. He gestured to the assembled councillors and said "This is how deep the corruption of faith goes in the lost territories. The Pope should not be feared. The Pope should not be worshipped. We shall stand against this corruption, wherever we may find it!"

September 25th

Arrius awoke with a start, a bucket of freezing sea water being dumped on him. The woman next to him screamed and ran from the room, wrapped in the soaking bedsheets. Arrius looked up to see his father, banked by two servants. Imperator Trajan was an imposing man when he was calm. When he was angry he appeared like an avatar of Jupiter. Arrius groaned and sat up, preserving his modesty from the servants and whined "What now father, it's the Sabbath, we aren't supposed to do work."

Trajan slapped his son across the face, knocking the 18 year old off the bed. Spitting on the ground in front of Arrius, Trajan growled "The world does not rest for god. There is the False Emperor to the north, the Pretender to the east, and Saracens to the south and west. When you succeed me, you will not rest on the Sabbath, so you shall not rest now. One day, you, me, your siblings, any children you have, any grand children, all of us will rest in Heaven. But until that day, you will spend every waking moment for the benefit of the realm, and you will not let this dynasty fail. The Empire cannot fall again, not for a third time. Now get up, and gather your retainers. You are heading west."

Arrius looked up and asked simply "What do you mean "heading west?"

Trajan didn't look back as he walked out the door "We march on Sardinia. You will be mentored by Marius Germanicus, and you shall help lead the Legions to victory. Now get up and get ready, the boats leave today or tommorrow."

Summary:
- The Empire refuses the call to arms by the Papacy
- Tunisia is experiencing a cold spell, slowing down troop movement in the Province
- The Legions have been mobilized and are marching on Sardinia. No formal declaration of war has been sent as the war is seen as Imperial Stabalization and not combat with a foreign nation.

by **Valtrona** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 3:49 pm

{Kingdom of Georgia}

[Kutaisi: November 2, 1095]

King David IV was handed the Kingdom in 1089 after his father, King George II, narrowly fought off the Turkish invasions. King David IV was determined to secure the sovereignty of Georgia from any external and internal threats, even though he was in his mid-20’s. The King wanted to increase relations with its neighbor and fellow Orthodox Christians to the West, the Roman Empire. He sent an emissary on a journey to the grand city of Constantinople, to discuss future relations and a potential alliance with the Empire. Meanwhile, news had arrived from Europe to Georgia much longer than anticipated. The Roman Catholics had called for a Crusade to regain the Holy Land from the Muslims. Normally, Georgia wouldn’t meddle with the affairs of the Western Europeans; the situation could provide an opportunity for further expansion if enough European powers agree to join, but it would be left up to next year. The military would remain dormant until next year, but ready to defend Georgia and it’s trading routes from foreign threats.

Unlike Europe, Georgia had a plentiful crop yield this year, and was expected to store up a plentiful supply of food for the coming winter. King David IV addressed the Royal Court located in Kutaisi to discuss matters involving the harvest. King David IV wished for the nobles to grant him further concessions to centralize the Kingdom under his control. Naturally the nobles objected, but King David IV promised that he would allow for them to keep a greater portion of the crop yields acquired this year. Some where happy by this news, others didn’t want to see their power decrease any more than in the previous years. King David IV was advised by George of Chqondidi that this would be key for his future plans of dominating the Caucuses Region, and to secure Georgia from the Muslims.
————————————
Summary:
- The King of Georgia sends an emissary to the Roman Empire in Constantinople.
- Georgia is expected to have a steady crop yield from the coming winter.
- King David IV appears at court to announce his intention to further centralize the government.

by **Greater Liverpool** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 5:37 pm

The Kara Khanid Khanate
November 12th 1095, Samarkand, Kingdom of Sogdia

"So... these Latins and their Crusade to retake the holy land. It provides us with a very interesting situation doesn't it dear cousin?" A young man sporting long dark hair said to his cousin, as he threw his sword into the sand it standing up on its own. "It seems to me that the follows of Ahriman are going to fight each other. Just like Mani foretold. Or did I get my Theology wrong again?" He stud in front of another man dressed in a quite remarkable attire with a long decorated gown and hat to match. "You are correct my dear Axilles. It seems Grandfather also knows this and this is why he has called such a huge gathering of all the khans and lords of the Khanate. It would appear that he is making ready to strike somewhere big." His cousin Toros spoke to Axilles while Toros had placed himself against a wall. Axilles picked up his sword from the ground and looked at it. It was unusual to say the least a sword shaped like an old Greek Kopis, his fathered had ordered the sword be made after he became obsessed with old Greek tales and the stories of Alexander. Axilles father Azat had once dreamt of conquering like Alexander but unfortunately Azat would die shortly after Axilles was born to combat but not before naming him Axilles. "A solider looking at his sword means that it is not being used to its intended purpose." An Old man shouted. "Axilles, how are you supposed to fight the Muslims when you just look at your sword?" The old man walked towards the pair of Axilles and Toros

"I am simply admiring. My Khan." Axilles shouted back to his grandfather the Khan, Aslan Alp Khan. "Besides there are no Muslim to fight here." Axilles shook his arms around "We are in the land of Light, Zurvan has cursed me with the lack of opponents to fight me it seems." Axilles remarked as Toros simply giggled to himself. The Khan continued to walk before reaching Axilles and placing a hand on his shoulder and giving a small rub.

"Well it seems Zurvan has lifted your curse it seems. I need you to do something for me." Axilles looked at his grandfather with eyes of intrigue "Gather some men together including your personal Guard. I have something for you to do." Aslan quickly grabbed the hand of Axilles which had hold of the sword. "You must go and raid the bordering towns and villages, bring back wealth, slaves and most importantly glory and fear." Aslan pointed the sword towards the horizon Axilles standing there his eyes going down the edge of the blade towards the sunset. "You will be my warrior of Light, Mani's warrior. You will deliver fear into our enemies in Persia and throughout the Islamic world. But also hope, those that are willing to join our faith, to follow the true and right path spare them, but those that don't... send them to meet Ahriman."

"Yes My Khan. It will be done. In the name of the Khanate, Mani, Zurvan and all the gods. The name of Axilles of the Kara-Khanid's will be word that will be feared by our enemies." Axilles placed his sword back in his sheath as he bowed to his Khan before he quickly walked away to gather up enough men to begin raiding some of the Persian towns and villages. A wide grin was on his face as he walked away knowing that he would finally get a chance to prove his worth as a sole commander of a force previously he had only been a commander under supervision. Now he had full control. "So the one child of the Khan that doesn't want to fight will be left in Samarkand I presume my Khan." Toros spoke up straightening himself out as he spoke to his grandfather.

"No Toros, I also have a mission for you I need someone important to got on an even more important mission. You will be my emissary to some distant lands namely the Kingdom of Georgia, Khazaria and the Eastern Roman Empire. I believe they can help us in this coming time. You will see if we can not work together in defeating a common enemy. Plus I know that you want to go to Constantinople but unfortunately that will be your last stop. I also want you to do something else while away. I am giving you a considerable amount of money, I want you to bring back many book and scholars from your travels they will be crucial in the coming times."

Summary:
-A great gathering of the leaders of the Kara-Khanid Khanate will be happening before the year is over.
-Raiding Parties have begun strike Muslim towns and villages in Persia.
-Diplomats have been dispatched to first the following countries and will be visted in this order: Georgia, Khazaria, Eastern Roman Empire.

by **Chinniwana** » Wed Apr 03, 2019 6:27 pm

Free States of Agnosicstan wrote:Summary
-The youngest son of Tairdelbach, Cróchán, has been permitted to prepare to join the crusade and gather men from Éire to do so.

CRUSADERS:
Crochan, the youngest son of the High King, has been allowed to go crusading. Crochan has a Strategem of 5 and a Command of 17. He may be a glorious warrior, but he doesn't have a very good head for Strategy and Military Tactics. Combat Rolls gain a +1.

Crochan begins preparing an army of Crusaders. (17) Crochan, along with various Priests and preachers, are able to gather 1K men from all over the Emerald Islands. Most of these men are Peasants, but quite a few are well trained in Combat, giving the Army a +1 in Combat.

The Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune wrote:- The Legions have been mobilized and are marching on Sardinia. No formal declaration of war has been sent as the war is seen as Imperial Stabalization and not combat with a foreign nation.

LEGION:
Arrius, son of Trajan, has been forced to summon the Legions and move West into Sardinia. Arrius has a Strategem of 12 and a Command of 15. The lessons from Marius Germanicus have been paying off. Both Preparation and Combat phases gain +1.

Arrius is gathering a Legion. (13) The Legions, while they support Trajan and his want to form a true Roman Empire, don't really support Arrius. He only draws an Army of about 550 Men. However, these men have been trained well in the art of Combat, and have a +1 in all phases of Combat.

Greater Liverpool wrote:-Raiding Parties have begun strike Muslim towns and villages in Persia.

SELJUK RAIDING:
Axilles has been sent by the Great Khan to gather a force, and begin raiding Seljuk towns. Axilles has a Strategem of 7 and a Command of 5. He's not a very decent fighter, but he isn't completely worthless, and could prove useful for Raiding.

Axilles then tries to gather a Raiding Party. (11) Axilles is able to gather 500 hunters, woodsmen, and peasants who are willing to raid in the honor of Mani.

Axilles leads the party out of Khara-Khanid, and they find a small village called 'Qabakh', right near the border between Khara-Khanid and Seljuk Persia. Qabakh has a population of about 100 people. Combat begins when Axilles and the Raiding Party attack. Axilles and the Khara Raiding Party gain a +2 in Combat for their larger size.

Preperation: (39 vs. 20) The Qabakhi's, not realizing they're about to be raided, are completely unaware, as Axilles uses the natural terrain around the city to have his men surround the town, killing any guards that happen to find them.

Combat: (40 vs. 34) The forces of Axilles then attack the city, taking the town inhabitants by surprise. The few guards remaining fail to put up a decent fight, and the Khara-Khanid raiders are able to take the town easily.

Retreat: (33 vs. 29) The town is completely over run, and only a few Qabakhi's survive the encounter; you can count the amount on 2 hands. The Raider of the town are able to gather a lot of resources and valuables from the town. It's a decent start to the raiding expedition, but the few survivors will spread the news. Sooner or later, the Seljuk's will respond.

by **Ruskland-Preuben** » Thu Apr 04, 2019 12:17 am

الخلافة الإباضية

An elderly man sat by the balcony of his palace, this was the current reigning caliph of the Ibadi Caliphate, Caliph Asfar Omar Yacoub Aḥdiyen, and right now, he was reading a disturbing document that came from the leader of the Kafirs in ‘Iitalia, the Pope they called him, their caliph of sorts. As for the perturbing document in question, it was a declaration, of a holy pilgrimage to Jerusalem, but he knew what it was, a declaration of war against their fellows in the Levant. He could see it, the holy lands in which Muhammad was raised to heaven, under the hands of those heathens, but he could also see an opportunity. This document could be sent to those rebellious followers of the Pope in the coastal cities, and they would leave, those ones who were capable, and he would be left with a group of weak Kafirs, which he could convert to the one true faith. Hmm, yes, this is what he shall do. “YACOUB, MY SON! COME!” he shouted. Asfar may be an old man, but his strength still hadn’t left him in his old age. His fourth son, Yacoub, would then arrive after rushing into the room.

“Father, you called? Or rather, shouted?” Yacoub quipped, but his father shut him up with a glare and beckoned him to come closer and listen to what he had to say.
“My son, I have a missive from the leader of the Kafirs, their Pope,” he began, “And I want you to spread it out wherever the Catholics are in our lands.”. He held up his hand, as his son was about to interrupt him, “Why? This is to thin the numbers of those infidels, and by the time all is said and done, we will have one less problem to deal with.”.
Yacoub could only nod dumbly, and he took the parchment when his father told him to, “Make it quick my son! And call my son Omar, I have a task for him as well!” the Caliph shouted out, and when Yacoub left, he quickly went to his elder brother and told him, and Omar arrived after a few moments at his father’s room.
“You called for me, father?” he inquired, and he was told to sit down and listen with a quick utterance from his father. And he did so, then the Caliph began.
“Sunnis still control the city of Tripoli my son,” started Asfar, “This state of affairs cannot stand any longer, and thus, I require you to ready our men for a war.”. He clicked his tongue and stared off into the sky, then resumed, “We must take the city and its surroundings, not to mention the Maltese Isles,” he looked at his son, “After these conquests, your place as my successor will be solidified, and all those naysayers will be silenced.”.
“Go my son, go and make Allah and I proud.”.

His son then leaved him, and once more, he enjoyed the cold breeze upon his face alone. The cold spell was quite good, a fresh breath of air from the withering heat of the Sahara, why, the cold sent a few rains on their way, this could help the army with their imminent conquest. Speaking of the army, Omar had ordered messengers to be sent all over the land, to raise levies and drill them. As for Yacoub, he had left the capital for the northern coastal towns, copies of the declaration in hand.

Summary:
-Levies of the Caliphate raised and drilled for oncoming war
-Papal declaration spread across towns and cities with Catholic populations
-Cold spell brings in a few rains, helping farmers

by **Finland SSR** » Thu Apr 04, 2019 10:53 am

Nalšios kunigaikštystė

A new year had set upon the realms of the Duchy of Nalsha, and while the Christ-worshipping Westerners suffer weaker harvests, the hardy Baltic population dispersed thinnly among the forests felt none of it. And the year was turning out to be promising, too. News from the distant west hardly reached the Baltic forests and the travelling court of Duke Erdvilas, but the information about a great holy war called by the leader of the Christ-worshippers to liberate a piece of land in the distant east was certainly enticing... enticing in the way that it meant the Westerners will pay less attention to the events taking place by the Baltic Sea.

Meanwhile, the nascent Nalshan state needed to continue on, and continuing on meant raiding. Bringing in the loot from neighbouring states to fuel the kariauna, a retinue of armed noble warriors who follow the Duke and upon whose loyalty the legitimacy of his regime stands. Duke Erdvilas chose to order his cousin and a hardy Baltic warrior, Spera, to assemble the Duchy's kariauna as well as soldiers gathered from the villages and towns of the land into one raiding party. The target of the raiding party shall be the lands of Polotsk to the north-east. None shall be safe in the Nalshan raidpath.

Summary:
- No weather phenomena in Nalsha and rest of Eastern Europe.
- Nalsha gathers a raiding party led by commander Spera and sends him to raid Polotsk lands.

by **Deutschess Kaiserreich** » Thu Apr 04, 2019 5:05 pm

[The Swedish Empire]
[Copenhagen]

Gustavus Adolphus looked out into the windswept sea below him. In the distance, hundreds of fishing boats had left port for the daily work slowly becoming small ants on the horizon. On the back of them to the sun above rose blessing Copenhagen with the Lord's light. The sun played on the ocean and it looked as if a thousand diamonds floated on the surface. To his right was the grand city. The heart of the Northern Empire. The streets were now bustling as shop owners opened up their stalls and women emerged from their houses to buy goods for the day. Children played ball on the street as carts laden with the wealth of the Northen states passed them. Thousands of sweeper now patrolled the streets searching with their eagle eyes for the smallest inch of filth. The many river channels were like blood vessels for the city carrying goods and passengers with ease. In fact, the channels were so intricate that many spent most of their lives sailing than walking. Who had done all this? The man crowned by the Lord himself. The moment that he recovered from the hangover of his coronation party Gustavus had invited Europes greatest artists to his palace. For weeks they toiled over thousands of outdated maps of the city planning great monuments to Swedens might. There were many nights of tears, yelling, and even a fistfight before the many great men could agree on a final plan. Once that was done Gustavus nearly had to empty the palaces treasury to hire the many engineers and workers but it had all been worth it. Three years of sweat and labor completed most of the cities infrastructure though much of the southern parts were still your typical slum. But as Gustavus basked in his glory he heard footsteps behind him.

He turned around. A young boy was now at his knees. Gustavus bent down picking the child up. He outstretched his hand showing the boy the beauty of Copenhagen and the fruits of the sea. "One day this shall all be your Alfred.".

But the boy, far to young to understand what was being shown to him, simply just drooled. Gustavus sighed. There would be much work grooming his son to lead this grand empire after he was gone. Then he heard another set of footsteps behind him. He turned around to see a man with a letter in his hand. Gustavus put down his son, kneeling and telling the child to go play with his brothers. With that, the young boy exiting the room. The king of the greatest empire to ever exist rose to his knees and he found himself towering over the messenger. Gustavus asked, "What is it?"

"Your majesty. " The messenger bowed as low as his spine could allow him. He rose up only with the signaling of the Emperor with his hand. He handed the king the message before continuing. "The pope of Rome has called for a holy crusade against the Heretics of the desert to save Christendom. The local bishops have heard the news and are preaching to large crowds all over the capital to march and destroy the Heretics."

"They didn't consult with me before preaching?" The King asked a frown growing across his face. The Bishops had constantly been acting on the orders of the pope than their rightful ruler, Gustavus himself. He would have to discuss with the council for a solution to this. The messenger spoke once more. "They thought it not needed as the message needs to be delivered upon the masses."

"Send a message to them. Tell them that they may continue preaching but this shall be the last time they act so boldly before consulting with me. The peasants may embark if they wish. Also, gather the council members. I must discuss with them what we are to do."

"Yes, your majesty." The man left the room but not a moment later another one entered the room. Something was happening. Gustavus asked once more, his mind racing, "What is it?"

The man now kneeled down at Gustavus's feet. Some actually respected true power.

"Rise." Gustavus said and the man stood up before speaking, "My master, representatives of the Liege have arrived. They wait in the entrance hall."

"I did not hear of this?"

"Yes, the ship carrying the messenger that went ahead was raided by the rogue traders. The messenger was killed."

"Another thing to discuss with the council today. Okay... here is what I want you to do. Go find Fedrick. You just passed him and tell him to gather the royal guard in the garden. After that stall, the envoys for as long as possible and I will send for them to go to the garden. Need to keep up appearances."

"Yes, my lord. I shall do those at once." The man now sprinted out of the room. Today was certainly going to be a very busy day for Gustavus.

Summary
-King Gustavus Adolphus meets with diplomats. We shall see what it will do.
-The local bishops call upon the peasants of Copenhagen to crusade against the heretics.

by **Strala** » Thu Apr 04, 2019 6:36 pm

The Empire of Bulgaria

Septmber 23, 1095 - Preslav, Imperial Palace

"All hail his Imperial Majesty Simeon the II, Emperor of the Slavs, and Bulgars"

The various nobles of the Empire quieted down as a shout rang out announcing the entrance of his Imperial Majesty Simeon II entered the courtroom of the palace. He was a man in his twenties, yet his demeanor and looks make him look older. He already has developed grey hair although to some that added to his charm. At his side would be his Empress-consort Irene Doukaina the granddaughter of Ivan Vladislav of Bulgaria, the murder of his grandfather Gavril Radomir of the Bulgarian Empire. She was three years older than Simeon II and was betrothed to him in 1081 AD for a political reason. They would marry after he ascended on to the throne in 1085 AD. This marriage tied him and the Bulgarian Empire to the Byzantine Empire and their ruling dynasty the Doukas. It wouldn't take long for the young Emperor of the Bulgarian Empire to come and grow to love the young women due to her intelligence and her beauty.

The Royal Pair would walk down towards their throne in the middle of the room before seating down. They were elevated at the same height to symbolize the equality of power between the couple. The other nobles dropped to both knees before prostrating before them before one cried out "Your Imperial Majesty, we the nobles of this nation humbly ask you a question about your good uncle, the Roman Emperor Romanos IV's call to the pope and our states to attack the Saracens." It had been a few months ago that messengers had arrived from the Roman Empire calling for the Bulgarians to send aid to them. It was reported that a vast majority of these messengers were turned away except for a few nobles that began mobilizing their levies. This had a caused a schism in the royal court as some of the more traditional and older nobles that had served under his grandfather and father refused to send aid to their old enemies. The younger generation of nobles and minor noble families were all too eager to send their brothers or younger sons to win glory and curry some royal favors for their family.

The court returned to its normal bickering after no response was given by their Tsar. Simeon would lean over and would discuss with his wife before clearing his throat and began talking with his subjects. "My vassals, my wife and I have discussed over this topic and have come to a conclusion. First I wish to address my vassals that served under my grandfather and father. You and your family have served my family loyally for generations and I have no doubt that you will continue to serve my family for centuries to come." He would continue for a while trying to inflate the ego and get into the good grace of them. It would make convincing them to send men to the Byzantine all the easier. "I want to tell your noble selves that I decree that we shall help the Roman Emperors and their people once more." His proposal was met with a mixed reaction as several of the older generation would try to convince to change his mind. "My noble subjects please quiet down while I continue. I understand why some of you are against this for why would anyone would help their former enemies, but please remember that is it not Roman Emperor's first son mother of the same dynasty as us. If we help the Romans in defeating the heathens would we not gain a considerable amount of favor among the royal family? If we could crown him the Emperor of the Romans would our dynasty gain more prestige? Need I remind you that it was our people that helped break the Second Siege of Constantinople. It was our people that helped crown the current Roman Emperor and it was us again when we helped the Romans once again in breaking the third siege of Constantinople three years ago. My most noble and leal vassals I deplore you if you don't want to send aid to the Byzantine because of our past history then at least aid them for the sake of my cousin"

He would quiet down for a while before speaking again. "My vassals, if those reasons above aren't enough for you then remember about the riches and glory you can win for your family. The orients are no doubt rich from their trade with the far off people of Cathay. Think about the wealth that you will gain from conquering the heathen's cities." When he finished he would send several letters to the nobles of the realm that wasn't part of his court to begin levying a fifth of their men. He didn't want all of his Empire's strength to waste off in a faraway desert. He would deal with other mundane tasks until late into the night. He would eventually dismiss the court for the day before leaving the throne room with his wife.

"My dear husband was it wise to anger some of your more major vassals with your declaration?" asked the Empress consort Irene. Her melodious voice would entrance Simeon for a while. "My love, while that might not have been the best decision. It would still be better than allowing only a select few to go. It would make our realm seem weak and that I have no power among my own vassals. It would also appease my vassals at the end of the Crusades. They will be blinded by the sights of riches that they will earn and that would make them far more loyal to me. It would also make our men ready and fit for battle as the veterans of my father's war of independence are either dead or too old to hold a sword. Only a small portion of our men have fought in proper battles as we mainly deal with slave raids from the Khanates of the east and the occasional raids from the north." Responded the Emperor before grabbing his wife by the hand and leaning in and whispering in a gruff tone "My love, it is best we forget about these issues and deal with them another time. It is best that we retire our chambers for a pleasurable night." He would lead the now blushing Irene into their chambers, and moans of lust were heard throughout the night.

Septmber 24, 1095
Simeon would awake early on before visiting his eldest son's chamber. The thirteen-year-old Peter was still asleep in his room when Simeon entered his room. He would be awoken by a gentle sake on his shoulder, "Peter, I need to discuss with you about something important. As you know the Roman Emperor had asked for help against the heathens at his border. You shall travel with me and our forces to the Byzantine Empire. There we shall introduce you to the Imperial Court there and attempt to discover an appropriate betrothal for you. It is about time that you will marry. Our line must be continued and we shall do the same with your brother."

Peter was excited as he had heard many stories about the Byzantine Empire from his mother. He was told how wealthy and developed the country was, but the chance to fight was far more exciting "Father will you allow me to follow you into battle. I have learned much about warfare from my tutors and from you. I swear to the lord above not to disappoint you and our family." He would hear his father chuckle for a moment before hearing his reply "No my sweet child, you will not accompany me into battle against the heathens. Your cousin Alusian will lead our men against the heathens. Instead, when we return, you shall accompany me in our invasion of the Croats. Now come with me, my dear child. You shall accompany me and your Mother to the throne room today. You will learn how to deal with the Royal court."

"Yes father," responded the young Prince Peter before dressing with the help of his servants.

Summary;
-The Empire of Bulgaria is sending aid to the Byzantine Empire
-The Emperor and his family travel to Constantinople to meet the Roman Emperor Romanos IV

by **The Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune** » Thu Apr 04, 2019 7:47 pm

October 30th, 1854 A.U.C
Olbia, Sardinia

Arrius stood atop the helm of the hulk, listening to the sound of the oars slowly splashing into and out of the water. The ship rocked slightly in the breeze as it crept along the coast of Sardinia. Several other ships flying the red and gold of the sicilian naval jack tailed it as it approached the wide natural harbor of the town of Olbia. Three men manned a ballista mounted to the bow of the boat, preparing to fire at anything that should threaten the vessel. Arrius let out a breath and said "Light the signal fires, prepare the men."

The prince donned his helmet and descended down a short set of stairs on to the main deck. Another man in black general's armor and an ornate helmet approached him from beneath decks, followed by the attachment of the Legion who sat aboard the boat. Marius Germanicus was a legend amongst the legions of True Rome. It was by his blade that the recent Islamic revolts were put down in Tunisia, and well respected by the entire Legion. The only thing more iron than his will was the intent of Trajan himself. Marius drew his blade and made sure it was sharp, and said "Well lad, now it is time for the true test of your strength. Shall you be Alexander reborn, or shall you be Augustulus, the last failure of the first Empire."

Arrius snorted and said "I may not know much Germanicus, but even I know it is folly to compare myself to Alexander himself. But I hope that one day I shall be looked upon as Arrius Maximus. One day at least." Arrius turned to the men and said "Prepare yourselves, for now we shall lay claim to the first bastion of civilization on these Islands since the days of the first Empire. Ave Trajan, Ave Romanum!"

The men rallied to this chant and quietly said their last prayers before battle.

-The Legion of Arrius attacks the town of Olbia late at night.

by **Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States** » Fri Apr 05, 2019 3:38 am

Great Mosque at Cordoba
Ramadan 7, 488
10th of September A.D. 1095

There was silence.

Utter silence.

It seemed as if even the birds outside the Great Mosque has ceased their song. The messenger who had read out the scroll stood perfectly still, but one could see the small beads of sweat forming on his forehead and temples. It wasn’t too warm, but the tension could even make the most battle-hardened veteran swallow. The assembly that had gathered at the Great Mosque was constituted of emirs and counts, imams and bishops and rabbis, representative of all nobility and faiths throughout Old Hispania.

Following a simple hand gesture by Emir 'Abd al-Rāhman, the messenger rolled up the scroll, bowed, and left the room. His footsteps resounded like thunderclaps, like echoes of the lightning strike that was his message. He had read, in Arabic, a translation of the address by pope Urban II, calling for a thing. This thing, so new in the vocabulary of the Latins, had no translation in Arabic, but the scribes and scholars had done their best to come up with a palatable verse. They had called it Hamla Salibia, a Latin Campaign. However, those bishops and clergy who were present, who had already received the original, knew it by another word: cruxiata, crusade.

The heads of those present went to and fro. From the emir himself to the custodian Muhammad ibn Abbad al-Mu'tamid, and then to the other representatives of the assembly. There was no murmur at first, but slowly the first hushed voices began to pierce the silence, flowing into a low drone of hushed voices. As the low drone turned into a lively debate, the emir held up his hand, immediately silencing those present. He rose from his throne at the rear of the Mosque, and spoke in Arabic.

“This news arrived not a week ago from Rome. It seems that the Holy Father has called for Jihad, a Holy War. Bishop Aldemar of Burgos…”

Shuffling from a crowd of ornately dressed Catholic clergy came a younger man. He was only 38, and recently appointed to the position by pope Urban himself. As bishop of Burgos, he was primus inter pares, the highest of the Hispanian bishops. He was the mouthpiece of Catholicism in the realm.

“Yes, my lord?” Aldemar spoke. His stature was unsure, but his voice was the booming baritone of a man who was used to speaking to large congregations. He straightened his shoulders and seemed to rise a meter as he did.

“I understand that you have a request to make” the emir answered. Aldemar nodded.

“Yes, my lord. As the followers of Muhammad among us know, to do jihad is a holy duty upon every faithful. For us, it offers a straight path to heaven. We humbly request that you allow the Catholic faithful to take up this offer of His Holiness, Vicar of Peter, and assemble an army to march to the Holy Land”

The murmur that had risen up before was now changed immediately to shouting. The imams were the most vocal, but some of the emirs were fuming as well. The shouts of ‘unbeliever’ and ‘traitor’ rose up high, and some of the emirs even darted forwards. If weapons had been allowed in the Mosque this could have turned ugly, but such was forbidden under the laws of Cordoba. As the emir of Granada tried to shove Aldemar, al-Rāhman stood up.

“Brother Granada, would you do violence in this holy place?” he said with the soft voice of a poet for which he was so well-known.

This was followed up by the booming, commanding voice of the Custodian, who merely yelled ‘SILENCE’ so loudly that all in the hall looked at him. Everyone slowly returned to their designated seats, except for Aldemar.

“Brother bishop” the emir spoke.

“I will now consult the assembly for their wisdom in this matter. All those wishing to speak, please step forward”

A few of the emirs and imams released themselves from the gathered mob they were embroiled in, but none of the bishops dared to take a step. After looking around the room, the emir pointed at one of the imams to speak.

“Brothers, I find it hard to contain my outrage at this proposal. This unbeliever asks to make war against our eastern brothers! Why he is not dragged outside and beheaded at once is beyond me, but…”

“I will not allow threats to be made under my protection, brother imam!” the emir interrupted him. “I would ask you to apologise”

“… Apologies, my lord. Brother Aldemar… But the point is that we cannot allow them to make war against our brothers!”

The imam did a step back, indicating he had used his time, and the emir now pointed at the emir of Cordoba.

“My lord, this Latin campaign is a declaration of war against all of Islam. Scripture compels us to answer that call. Allow me to build a fleet of a thousand ships and sail for Rome! I will drag the Holy Father before you and make him beg for forgiveness, insha’allah!”

Now, the bishops were up in arms. Shouts of ‘blasphemy’ and ‘heathens’ rose up high, even blotting out the shouting of the imams. The Custodian took one step forward, but before he could bellow out the room turned back to quiet, fearing another bout of anger from the main military commander of the empire.

“It seems this debate cannot continue this way. Brothers, you are all too hot-headed” the emir spoke, as if nothing had happened.

“Jihad is a most holy rite, demanded by both Islam and now by Catholicism. Brother Cordoba, you called for a Holy War just now! If the words of the Holy Father are true, and the roads of pilgrimage to Jerusalem are indeed shut to Christians, then we owe it to the People of the Book to open up those roads. Nothing in Islam allows us to prevent others from making a holy pilgrimage. ‘Therefore, roam the earth freely for four months, and know that you cannot escape from God, and that God humiliates the disbelievers’. However, I have heard your voices, and as such will now call for a vote.”

“All those who say that Aldemar cannot leave our lands, and that the Custodian should gather our army and stop him from doing so, raise your hands high”

Had the vote been anything else, it would have ended differently. But the mention of an assembled army, especially during the time of harvest which was going poorly for the entirety of western Europe, was a hidden argument of the emir. A lot of hands were raised, but they were in the clear minority. Most looked at their feet, trying not to make eye contact. The emir rose from his throne.

“Brother Aldemar, you are permitted to go. But know this: it is not lawful for a Muslim to hurt another Muslim. Therefore, my lands will not provide you with aid or comfort. Our crops shall not feed your soldiers, and our ships shall not ferry them. If you return to our lands, then you will do so unarmed and flying my banner. Should you violate my laws and commands, you will be banished eternally from my realm, and so will be all those who choose to follow you”

Aldemar bowed to this command, and nodded.

“If this is your will, then so be it. May peace be with you”

“And with you”

Palace of the Emir, Cordoba
Ramadan 7, 488
10th of September A.D. 1095

The palace gardens of the palace were open to everyone who came unarmed. During September it was most beautiful, basking in the late summer sun and showing the last of that year’s flowers. Fruits were growing plentifully, and those who walked the garden could freely pluck green apples from the trees. The banners of the emir danced in soft winds that brought warm air with them, and the smell of evening and cooking fires from the city filled the air with crispness.

The emir himself walked the grounds thoughtfully. Many of these plants he had planted himself, both with an eye for their beauty and their usefulness. Some plants had medicinal qualities, others smelled heavenly and yet others brought good taste to foodstuffs, which was welcome in an age before refrigeration. The emir was accompanied by a few men, who talked as they went on.

“I do not understand, Abd…” his personal imam said, a most learned scholar of all scriptures.

“To allow these Christians to fight against our brothers, while we have nothing to gain…”

“It will only infuriate the other lords, my lord…” The Custodian spoke. “They will not like that you allowed this force to leave”

The emir smiled, and smelled a rose that was growing from a vine.

“I say, I have quite some plausible deniability. Aldemar will march through France, probably, from his lands in Burgos. We just didn’t have time to intercept them” he said, as a playful smile came across his lips.

“One thing you have to know about the Latins, Muhammad…” the emir continued.

“They are as prone to fight among themselves as they are to fight others. At least, the more bellicose of them are. Even if they succeed, their occupation of Jerusalem will not last long. If they succeed against our eastern brothers, of course, who will have God on their side”

“That might be true” the Custodian spoke. “But what do we have to gain?”

The emir nodded.

“If Aldemar and his zealots want to go off and die half-way across the world, or spent a few campaign seasons abroad, I doubt any of you will miss them. They stand in the way of my plans of unification, with their constant scheming and rebel-rousing. Let them take their rebels away, I do not care for it. While they are gone, let us focus on uniting the realm, regardless for what happens outside”

- Bishop Aldemar of Burgos united an army to fight in the Crusade, the Emir won’t stop him

by **Nea Byzantia** » Fri Apr 05, 2019 6:12 am

Constantinople, October 1st 1095 AD

Emperor Romanos IV stood on the balcony of his Imperial Palace, observing column after column of his Imperial troops marching by in the square below, as the citizens of Constantinople cheered. Standing beside the Emperor, was his son, heir and Co-Emperor Nikephoros.

"This will be quite the gathering, father." said Nikephoros

"Indeed." replied the Emperor, "Thank God our harvests haven't been cursed like those of the Franks. We have a good number of fresh blood this year. We should be able with the combined forces of our Orthodox brothers in Bulgaria, Georgia, and with some Frankish help, repulse the Turks."

"Father, are you sure we can trust the Franks?" asked Nikephoros

"We cannot." replied the Emperor, "We should not. That is why I have made alternate plans."

"What sort of plans, Father."

"Rome has many friends in this world, my son. True friends of the Orthodox Faith."

Letter to the Alan Khagan:

(Note: Similar Letters were sent to the King of Armenia, the Khagan of Khazaria, and via the Georgian Emissaries sent to Constantinople, to the King of Georgia

SUMMARY
- Byzantium has not been affected by famines in Western Europe

- Imperial Army has been able to recruit more men

- Emperor conferred secretly with Georgian emissaries to encircle the Turks

- Imperial Diplomats have also been sent to the Armenians and Orthodox Alans, as well as the Khazarians requesting an alliance, and cooperation in war against the Turks

- Spies have been sent along the Imperial roads, and in various cities in the Western periphery to keep track of Frankish movements into Imperial territory

by **Chinniwana** » Fri Apr 05, 2019 7:02 am

The Black Party wrote:> Pope Urban II's "Crusade Speech" is withheld from the public.

INTERCEPTION:
La Capitanul decides it is too dangerous to allow the Crusader speech to be raised at this time. La Capitanul has a Strategem of 12 and a Command of 6; she's pretty good at coming up with strategies, but not the best at going through with them. Armies under the command of La Capitanul have a Preperation of +1.

La Capitanul is going to gather a small force to stop the Papal Envoy from delivering the message. (17) La Capitanul does not leave anything to chance, and rallies fourth 500 border guards to prevent the Papal Envoy from spreading the message.

Eventually, the Papal Envoy arrives with about 30 men, led by a Priest named Enrico Cortazoa, who is not a military man. Since this group is not an Army, and isn't expecting a fight, it will have a preparation of 0, and a combat modifier of -5.

Preperation: (24, 0) La Capitanul's forces are standing at the largest border town; Hambourg. La Capitanul informs this envoy that they are under arrest for causing religious strife and defying the laws of the nation, despite only having arrived. Enrico pleads with La Capitanul that they are on a mission from God, and as Christians they must be allowed to spread their message, but La Capitanul will not allow them to spread it. The Priests, realizing they would lose in a fight between them and the Northern Army, are going to put up a fight because God will be on their side.

Combat: (34, 13) Most of the 30 Priests are basically killed, with only about 1 or 2 of the Northern Army troops killed in the fight.

Retreat: (45, 37) Only 5 Priests survive the combat, and all 5 of them are captured. They have their mouths gagged and their parchments destroyed, so that word of the Crusade can't be spread amongst the peasantry. When word of this reaches the Pope, however, he will not be happy.

Ruskland-Preuben wrote:-Levies of the Caliphate raised and drilled for oncoming war

Yacoub, son of Caliph Omar, has been called to summon an Army to take Tripoli. Yacoub has a Strategem of 10 and a Command of 8; he's a basic commander, known for following standard military procedures and not taking many risks.

(14) Yacoub rallies for an Army to prepare for an Assault on the Fatamid Caliphate. An Army is gathered from around the entire country, and about 900 men are called to Yacoub's call.

Finland SSR wrote: - Nalsha gathers a raiding party led by commander Spera and sends him to raid Polotsk lands.

Spera, cousin of the Duke of Nalsha, has been tasked with forming a Raiding Party to raid the Rus Princely States, primarily Polotsk. Spera has a Strategem of 8 and a Command of 18; while his Military Strategies are basic, his skill in combat and speech make him a powerhouse to have in any battle. Combat and Retreat Phases under his command have a Modifier of +2.

Spera calls upon a Raiding Party (16) and gathers 700 Warriors, most of whom have at least raided once in their life, prepared to go anywhere Spera leads them.

Spera and his party go Raiding through Polotsk, finding Myadzyal, a small commercial town. The village has around 120 People. The Nalsha Raiding Party will have a +2 in Combat for their Larger size.

Preparation: (41 vs. 12) Spera decides to use luring tactics, drawing out all the men who are able to fight slowly out of town with smaller groups, and bringing them to the larger group to get them killed. This whittles the forces of Myadzyal down considerably, and will give a +1 in Combat to Spera's Forces and a -1 in Combat to Myadzyal.

Combat: (54 vs. 28) With the town already depopulated, Spera and the Raiders easily take the town, massacring most of the Village and stealing not only the valuables, but taking the women and children as well.

Retreat: (41 vs. 24) The village is burned to the ground, and of the 120 people, 50 women and children and sold into slavery. The Raiders also gain a lot of goods, primarily livestock and crops, and take no casualties at all. Only around 5 people are able to escape the village.

Great Confederacy of Commonwealth States wrote:- Bishop Aldemar of Burgos united an army to fight in the Crusade, the Emir won’t stop him

Bishop Aldemar of Burgos is calling for a Crusading Army, with the quiet support of the Emirs of Cordoba. Bishop Aldemar has a Strategem of 14 and a Command of 10, the Faithful will follow, and fortunately for them he isn't too shabby at thinking of battle plans. His Preperation Phases will have a +1.

Aldemar travels through Cordoba, preaching of the Command to Holy War in Jerusalem. (1) Instead, the absolute minute he calls for an Army in Cordoba, the local Muslims immediately arrest him, declaring he is violating Shariah Law, primarily the Kitab Dimmat Al-Nabi (Dimmhi Contract). Within days of his arrest he was sentenced to Death, and was stoned. His message, however, will soon spread among the Christian Peoples, primarily in the North of Cordoba...

Nea Byzantia wrote:

- Imperial Army has been able to recruit more men

The Byzantine Empire, preparing for both a force of Crusaders and Orthodox Brethren to help fight the Seljuks, calls for more conscripts. (16) 900 Men, most of whom have some experience in Combat.

by **Crockerland** » Fri Apr 05, 2019 5:10 pm

Tarvanpaa, Virland, Osel - The Eastern Frontier (November 3rd, 1095)

Alfarr Tarmo gripped one hand against the jagged, rough bark of a scots pine as he peered towards the target of his hunting party - A large, fat boar with gnarled tusks and a face scarred and scratched from previous attempts to take it as a trophy. The monstrous creature's snout worked to suck in and expel air like a blacksmith's bellow as it sniffed for plants, fungi, or animals alike to tear apart with its gnashing teeth. Those wretched teeth could find their way into one of the hunters, if they weren't careful.

Alfarr's nephew Armas headed to the right, towards the boar's line of sight, while Alfarr's young half-brother Steinarr headed to the left, behind the creature's back. Armas clutched the bow in his hand as he approached the beast, taking in a breath of the cold baltic air before preparing an arrow and pulling back against the weight of the drawstring; He took another step and something crumpled beneath his feet, he looked down. It was a pinecone. He looked back up at the sound of hooves hitting the ground, as the animal charged towards him.

Steinarr let loose an arrow of his own, but the fast and unpredictable beast flew past his mark and charged on unscathed. Armas fired his own arrow while Alfarr knew to hold his own until he could make a good shot. The arrow embedded itself behind the boar's head, in its back, and it barreled down ontop of its would-be predator as its jaw lowered and its monstrous tusks were prepared to strike. Armas reached down for his atgeir but never had a chance. As the boar ripped apart its victim, Steinarr and Alfarr rapidly closed the distance between themselves and the skirmish.

Another arrow plunged into the boar's back, this time from behind, as Steinarr grabbed another from his quiver to replace it. The hog turned around, satisfied with its mauling of Armas, but Alfarr let loose an arrow of his own, driving it into the pig's eye. Undiscouraged, the boar charged once more, but Alfarr was quicker to his spear. As the animal came within reach, the hunter plunged his spear past the boar's thick skull and into its neck, pressing forward with all his might to keep the enraged beast away from him. Another shot came from Steinarr, sending the boar into a panicked frenzy. With a few more stabs, the monster had been killed.

Steinarr and Alfarr approached their fallen comrade and peered down at him. Armas, laying in a pool of blood, was with the living no more. He and the boar were carried back to town.

The boar was the second most noble of animals for the hunt, only superseded by the fearsome brown bear. Alfarr's family hacked into the boar's carcass with knives and tools, separating hide and meat and bone from it. Alfarr and his brother grabbed wood from a stack and carried it to the fire pit, making preparations to cook. Armas' parents, of course, were not in attendance.

"It is a shame for Armas, don't you think?" Steinarr asked, piling split wood onto his arm to carry.

Alfarr thought for a moment before speaking, "He was not strong enough, or quick enough, to survive. It is just the way of the world."

"He could have become stronger, with age," Steinarr replied

"Perhaps," Alfarr conceded "but then, perhaps not. And if we were to go in battle, would he get one of our people killed? Two? Three? Dozens? I am the chief in this land, and he was my nephew, people would trust him to lead, and if he was not strong enough to fight the boar, what would he lead our people to? A warrior is as an axe head, if you go to sharpen it and it becomes more deadly, then there is no issue, but if it cracks under your sharpening stone, would it not have cracked equally against your enemy's blade or shield?"

"That is the way of our people." Steinarr tossed the wood down into the fire pit "But for it to happen to our own nephew..." he stared down at the fire pit, staring off into space and recollecting his time with Armas.

"Do not worry yourself, my brother," Alfarr said "you are young now, you have seen few men fall that you have cared for, but in time, you shall harden yourself against its effects."

"I was hoping that our nephew would prove himself in this hunt and head on this quest, but I suppose it must be you now instead. Steinarr, we are preparing for war, and must travel before the winter sets in. To the east of us winds the Neva river, into Ladoga Lake, and south from there you shall follow the Volkhov River to the lake of Ilmen. While they are preparing for winter and their provisions are harvested and easily taken, we shall storm their villages and take what we like. I must keep up my rule here, and make preparations. In the summer time it will be much easier to travel across the water, and we can extend our hand across the East or West, North or South, as we please."

"Take my axe, brother," Alfarr instructed "I have executed many traitors with it, for all to see and know the price of treachery. Take with it the banner of our great nation, so that people shall recognize my authority when you go to gather an army for this righteous campaign." With that, Alfarr headed to his home to retrieve his war axe.

Kuressaarelinn, Saaremaa, Osel - The Eastern Frontier (Early September, 1095)

Shipyard workers toiled to maintain the vast fleet docked in the harbor outside of Kuressaarelinn. The dark hulls of the warships and merchant ships alike bobbed up and down in the waves of the Baltic Sea as crews assured that each and every one was fit for sailing. Slowly, all attention on the docks and ships fell on the strange vessel arriving to port; The ship flew under foreign flags, and it had come bearing Royal Envoys from the Northern Liege. Those below deck in the Oeselian fleet were called up and people assembled on the docks to meet these foreign intruders.

The foreign emissaries were clean and formal in dress and mannerisms, fit for a diplomatic mission. They found themselves in great contrast with the rough, unshaven, disheveled dockworker natives who glared suspiciously up at them from the docks and interrogated them from afar. A foreigner willingly traveling to Osel from Western Europe was rare enough, and those who did come were usually unwelcome in their homeland and had no intention of making a round trip. When it was figured out that these strangers wanted to speak to the king, a small group of the workers scurried to the palace to carry the message on.

The old king, Einar Rasmus, sat perched atop a throne which had been crafted from trees of various pillaged lands. The king's dark hair and beard reached down onto his shoulders, but baldness had claimed the front and top of his head. His face was rugged and worn from years of fighting, hunting, and treacherous terrain. Surrounding him in his throne room were all matter of trophies and oddities taken from near and far lands pillaged and raided. All manner of beast skulls and skeletons, foreign weapons and tools and garbs, manuscripts and ship sails, statues and coins, and countless other treasures.

As the workers came in, under the watchful eye of the guards, and explained what they had witnessed, inquiring as to the king's answer to the request made by the foreign visitors, he considered what they had said. King Rasmus always stared forwards as he thought, not giving any visible indication of his demeanor towards a given question. After a while of silence, he spoke, in as few words as were his custom.

"I shall allow their presence here," the king said simply, "let them come and speak to me, and I shall hear what they have to say."

And so the workers departed to allow the foreign diplomats entry. The meeting was brief and lacking in formalities, not quite a spectacular visit to witness, as was the way of things in Osel.

Summary
>Raiders are gathered from the Virland area of Osel, lead by Steinarr, half-brother of the chieften of Virland.
>Raids are launched on the eastern shores of Lake Ilmen.
>The Northern Liege's diplomats are allowed an audience with the king of Osel

by **The Black Party** » Fri Apr 05, 2019 7:34 pm

The Northern Liege

"Dieu Sauve Le Regent"

November 30, 1095 - City of Hambourg, The Northern Liege

"Halt! Arrêt!"

Princess Căpitanul raised her horse to the Papal Messengers, here to give the so-called "Word of God". She shouted at the Priests of Sicily:

"Vous êtes des étrangers! Soumettez-vous à la loi de Liège!"
("You are foreigners! Submit thyself to the law of the Liege!")

Enrico Cortazoa, the leading Envoy of The Pope, and one of the 5 to survive the unforeseen affair to come, responded:

"Nous ne sommes pas étrangers sur la terre du Christ. Ouvrez vos portes et, en tant que chrétiens, laissez-nous répandre le message du pape!"
("We are not foreigners on the land of Christ! Open your gates, and as Christians, let us spread the word of The Pope!")

Cortazoa and "La Căpitanul" would exchange more words. Then obscenities. Then stones and dirt. It became increasingly clear that Papal Messengers wouldn't cooperate.

"Prêt!"
("Draw swords!")

It was unclear who drew first, nevertheless who struck first, but the Safeguards of The Liege were quick to win the emerging battle. Although Cortazoa had God on their side, "La Căpitanul" had the sword, and as Papal Messengers began to flee, witnesses had to disappear. Safeguards on horseback slaughtered Emissaries who either did not surrender the fight, or attempted to flee. "La Căpitanul" would later plead to the Regent that she gave explicit orders to contain and capture them alive, and that the disobedience of the Safeguard was to blame, but The Regent knew his Consort well, she was pretty good at coming up with strategies, but not the best at going through with them, and this botched affair was the evidence of such.

Among the 30 Envoys of Christ, only 5 would end up captured, with the rest killed. "La Căpitanul" made sure to at least capture the leading Enovy, Cortazoa, alive. Gagged and bound, the five were placed in a holding cell as The Administration of The Liege considered their options.

The Envoys who were murdered would later receive full ceremonials and burial, but as nameless peasants in unmarked graves.

Princess Lăzurică "Căpitanul", flanked by her Royal Safeguard, orders the massacre of Papal Messengers infringing on the laws of The Liege.
Only 5 of the 30 Priests would survive and be taken into captivity.

October 1, 1095 - City of Copenhagen, The Swedish Empire

Swedish emissaries of The Liege were nervous to meet the renowned Gustavus I, allegedly crowned by God himself.

Clad in signet white, the ambassador felt the flowers of the Swedish royal garden, few of which were dying. Unlike The Liege, Sweden hadn't been extraordinarily affected by the poor harvest this season, and it showed in the prosperity of the locals. Not to be outdone, however, the emissaries were personally inspected by La "Căpitanul" herself before departure.

"Fransmän."
("Frenchman.")

The Ambassador turned to face the Palace doors.

"Kungen kommer att se dig nu."
("The King will see you now.")

"Très bien."
("Very well.")

The emissaries re-entered the Palace to meet Gustavus I. As the doors shut behind them, and they approached the throne, the leading Ambassador stepped forward and bent his right knee in Genuflection, and raised the right arm to his heart; the royal salute of The Liege. What he was careful not to do was bow to a foreign King. The Liege wasn't nearly as close to the Swedish realm for such, and the emissaries knew that well.

"Resa sig"
("Please rise, Ambassador.")

The Ambassador rose, cleared his throat, greeted the King verbally once more, and begun what they came here to do. The Ambassador opened by appealing to the shared Christian virtues of the two Northern Realms, to the King crowned by God himself. He proceeded to encourage the unity of faiths between The Liege and the Swedish Empire. A fair move to appeal to what he could only assume was The King's biggest appreciation.

"Vi borde kapitalisera på våra likheter. Våra imperier och människor Är mer likartad då tänkte."
("We should cooperate where we are similar, namely our Christian virtues. Our folk and empires are more similar then previously known.")

It was difficult for the Francophone to get his point across while speaking less-then-par Swedish in his fair French accent, but the message looked to be received. The Ambassador continued onto his next points of discussion, cooperative military exercises, trade route expansion, and more.

When the Ambassador started dropping hints of a possible Northeast Crusade, he began to stutter, and became increasingly nervous. He knew he had to play his verbal cards with perfection. Although the Emissaries weren't of rank, and ignorant of The Liege's border skirmish to the South, they knew that The Swedes hath rallied men for the march to Jerusalem. To openly suggest another crusade Eastwards to the Baltics would either be of diplomatic insult, and even economic warfare if misinterpreted.

The Ambassador cleared his throat, and straight up asked the King crowned by God, with a grin of confidence and religious zeal,

"... Vad är dina tankar, vid antikristarna österut?"
("... What are your thoughts about the Anti-Christs to the East?")

The Palace of Copenhagen, where Northern and Nordic meet.

October 4, 1095 - Kuressaarelinn, Osel - The Far Eastern Frontier

As the Ambassadors of The Liege, decked in royal white, with a small unit of Safeguards bearing The Liegian Standard, landed at the docks of Osel, their was an immediate unspoken consensus of how bad of an idea this was.

But haste had to be made, and so they carried on.

In only a bit over a night after landing, the Liegian Envoy was allowed to meet with King Rasmus of Osel. Osel had made a reputation of themselves as violent and savage by the standards of The Liege, and the envoy felt they had every right to fear The King who embodies their people. In Osel, Francophones held their swords a little firmer, wore their white armour a little tighter, and spoke with their accent a little thicker.

As they entered the residence of The King, the envoy weren't sure of what to expect. The whole building looked better then those that surrounded it, but by the standards of the Liege's economic prosperity, they entered a mud-hut. The envoy kept their mouths shut.

The leading ambassador stepped forward to King Rasmus, and gave the traditional Liegian royal salute, and bent his right knee in Genuflection, and raised the right arm to his heart. Though the Ambassador did not wait for the King's permission to rise.

Wasting no time, and wanting to idle in foreign territory for longer then necessary, The Ambassador immediately spoke about what they came their for; to discuss the nuisance Southbound of they, the raiding state of Nalsha, and the expansion-seeking Prussians of Romuva. Both a thorn in the sides of Osel and The Liege.

The Ambassador continued the diplomatic mission, suggesting a possibility of reliving this mutual problem that plagued both Osel and The Liege, to which the leading officer of the bodyguards of the Envoys stepped forward, gave the royal salute, and introduced himself as Safeguard officer of The Liege, Clavius Ostgaende, who would take the lead of the expeditionary force to the Eastern Frontier, being raised in The Liege as the envoys spoke.

Summary;
> The Papal Envoy to The Liege is either captured or killed, and the Word of God is successfully suppressed in The Liege.
> Ambassadors of The Liege meet with The King of Sweden, they propose:
> > Joint Military Exercises.
> > More trading deals and economic cooperation.
> > Hints of a Northeastern Crusade against the Pagan population.
> Ambassadors of The Liege meet with The King of Osel, they propose:
> > Joint military campaigns against Nalsha and Romuva.
> > Further opportunities of trade.
> An expeditionary force set to The Eastern Frontier is being raised in The Liege, led by Safeguard Officer Clavius Ostgaende.

by **Free States of Agnosicstan** » Sat Apr 06, 2019 4:02 am

High Kingdom of Éire

12th December, Munster, Éire

After the hectic first month as a ruler, Éire had quietened down heavily for its new, young king, Éibhear mac Tairdelbach. His brother would not be beginning the campaign against Meath for another three or so months, as no one was foolish or brash enough to do such an action in the middle of winter, especially not with the harvest being what it was. And so, the King sat, planning and discussing things with his personal council, a few of his more trustworthy brothers...And now, sitting upon his throne, the quiet and formal young man had come to something of a conclusion.

Éire was too isolated from the rest of Europe. Few of her nobles spoke French (indeed, he was only aware of his own, and his younger siblings ability to speak it), trade among Éire and other european states was often fleeting as it usually fell under the individual Kings to make such deals, and Éire herself was just not considered a significant nation, certainly not by other, proud European ones such as the Emperor of France, or the King of Sweden. The debate on how to sort out this issue had been troubling Éibhear for some time, and he had decided that he first must discover two things; the extent of the worlds ignorance of Éire, and Éire's ignorance of the world.

Which is how his younger sister, Suanach nic Tairdelbach, found him, brooding upon his throne. While the succession had not even considered the daughters of Tairdelbach, she had most certainly shown up, and was now doing her best to assist her brother. Neither were married, and this had somewhat fallen into the plans of Éibhear. He had known his sister for most of his life, her elder by only two years, and so the two were incredibly close, especially for children of Tairdelbach. He was broken from his brooding by her entrance, and for the first time since the sun had risen today he spoke, his voice a little strained from its own misuse. "Ah, Suanach. They're listening too me and keeping out, then?"

A nod from his young sister, a small one and barely noticeable to others, but Éibhear smiled. "Yes, Éibhear, though some of the third and fourth sons have been complaining about not having the chance to speak with you, all of the court have listened and no one is to disturb you today." This was good, a test command for his court. He had to be sure people would listen to him, young as he was. He stood up slowly, stretching a little. He hadn't quite realised how long he had been sat there, deep in his own thoughts, and was glad that his sister had broken that spell, even if he did not show it on his face. He could not afford to, not as High King, even if he wanted to. He was quiet for a moment. "Suanach, dearest sister, you are unmarried, correct? And you speak French?"

His younger sister nodded again, frowning a little. "Yes, you know both of these things. Why, Éibhear? What are you planning?" She queried. A bold move for a woman in a French or English court to question her King so, perhaps, but here it was less so. Éibhear smiled at Suanach, folding his arms a little as he paced over to the map of Éire and its many Kingdoms. "Look at it. The potential is there, for a system like...Well, like any others. A system where the Kings are loyal, properly loyal, and where all affairs are handled by me, like a proper High King." He paused, pursing his lips a little as he thought of the right words, something his sister recognised. She cut him off before he could continue.

"And what do you need of me? How can I help you in such an endeavour?" Words to which Éibhear smiled, for he knew that of all of his siblings, he could trust Suanach the most, as they shared both blood, and an attitude. An understanding of Éire's precarious place, that it only took an ambitious King of England, or a foolish High King, to endanger the Kingdom. "I need you to be my mouthpiece to other courts. An Fhrainc, Sasana, Albain...I can trust you, and I am needed here. I believe we should start with..." He paused for a moment, thinking again, attempting to recall his knowledge of the wider world. There was the Holy Roman Empire, that eastern Empire they were to assist during the Crusade...The various northern trading states, Sweden. Hm. Yes, perhaps starting with those, whose cultures should be somewhat similar to the Gaelic-Norse of Éire. "The northern states, I believe they call themselves a...What was it, a Liege?" He chuckles a little. "I do not remember much on them, however, sister...But I am sure you shall charm their entire court, a princess of a far-off land." He smiles as Suanach suppresses a small laugh, politely covering her mouth with her hand and nodding. "I suppose...Very well. I shall do it, Éibhear, and I shall do it well." His sister flashed him a confident smile, one that he had often seen growing up, climbing among the trees of Munster and playing at being knights using sticks...He smiled a little at the memory, but quickly let it pass.

Éibhear nodded, and smiled again. "Go and get someone who looks like they can listen, the preparations shall be made and you shall be setting out within two or three days." He waved her away, as he prepared himself for the much harder task, attempting to bring the Kings in-line. Something his father and grandfather had grappled with, and something now left to him...He had letters to write.

Early December, Ulster, Éire

Ristéard had, after a month or so of riding with his personal retinue of soldiers, arrived at the lands of the King of Ulster. Ordered to raise an army to combat the King of Meath, he declared that it was too late in the season for such outings, and that instead they would be resting with the King of Ulster for winter before gathering men in the spring to march against Meath and Dublin. The ambitious Prince of Éire was not idle, however, and made swift preparations, writing to his remaining supporters to gather to him and prepare and army. Once Meath was secured, he would declare himself High King, and fight his brother to sieze the Throne. The King of Mann responded favourably, however, no other Kings wrote in support of Ristéard. Indeed, the King of Connacht, on receiving the letter, was quick to send his own warning to Éibhear. Demanding a second oath of loyalty from the King of Mann seemed like the best course, but could not occur until the start of spring.

For now, Éire waited in limbo as the various Kings awaited the end of a likely harsh winter.

------------------
-Princess Suanach nic Tairdelbach is sent to the Northern Liege as an envoy, to learn more about European affairs and encourage trade.
-High King Éibhear mac Tairdelbach makes preparations for centralising his realm
-The campaign against the disloyal King of Meath is halted for the winter months, as Ristéard prepares to openly rebel with the aid of the King of Mann and the Kingdom of Meath

by **Chinniwana** » Sat Apr 06, 2019 10:13 am

NPCs:
HOLY ROMAN EMPIRE(FRANCE/SARDINIA):

The King of France, and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, Hugh 'the Great' Capet, had been informed well beforehand of the Crusade and the need to aid the Byzantine Empire. With the announcement of the Crusade, Hugh threw his whole support behind the initiative, and declared that all States within the Holy Roman Empire should do so as well. Immediately, many of the lords in France answered the Call for a Crusade to start in the Late Spring/Early Summer of next year. The Lords include Raymond Toulouse, Count of Toulouse (S:17, C:18), Godfrey Flanders, Duke of Lower Lorraine (S:1, C:18), Baldwin Flanders, Count of Verdun (S:19, C:14), Stephen Henry Blois, Count of Blois (S:2, C:14), and Robert, Count of Flanders (S:12, C:18). All of these men are proven Warriors, but some of them aren't very good with that whole strategizing part. All Armies under any of these Commanders gain a +2 Modifier in Combat, while Armies under Raymond and Baldwin gain Preparation Modifiers of +2. Armies under Godfrey and Stephen, however, gain a -2 Modifier for Preparation and Retreat.

These commanders try to rally forth 2 Crusading Armies. (19, 6) These men are able to draw 1400 Men into their Ranks. They will be trained, and ready to leave in the Spring.

Meanwhile, Philip 'the Amorous' Capet, elder brother of Hugh, excommunicated by the Pope over an illegitimate marriage, decided to use the Crusades to become a King in his own right, but not of France. Philip has a Strategem of 13 and a Command of 18. He is good at strategy and even better at following them almost to the letter, and if the situation arises, he's also able to discard the strategy to gain an upper hand. His Combat and Retreat phases gain a +2 Modifier.

He too will try to summon a Crusader Army. (15) 800 men join Prince Philip's call, and will be trained for their own Crusade; the 2nd Reconquista.

The Judicates of Sardinia, learning of the impending invasion of their Island by the Sicilians, prepare Arms and officially Condemn the Actions of Sicily. The states of Cagliari and Gallura, under the command of the Guidices Salusio de Lecon (S:4, C:18) and Torchitorio de Zori (S:15, C:6). Salusio is good at Combat, but bad at Strategy, while Torchitorio is good at Strategy, but bad at Combat. Salusio gains a +1 Modifier in Combat, and Torchitorio gains a +1 in Preparation.

Both men rally Armies to fight the invading Sicilians. (10,14) Salusio is able to gather 500 men, and Torchitorio is able to get 650 Men. They have very little time to train, as the Sicilians begin to sail to their shores...

NORMANDY:

SELJUK EMPIRE(SELJUK/RUM/TANUKHID):

FATAMID CALIPHATE:

TRIPOLITANIA:

by **Greater Liverpool** » Sat Apr 06, 2019 2:18 pm

Kara-Khanid Khanate

Qabakh, Seljuk Perisa
24th November 1095
Axilles of the Myrmidons

The sounds of fire burning away filled the local fields surrounding Qabakh, before it had been filled with the screams of people as they were cut down as the men from Kara-Khanid slaughtered most living things in the village. Anyone still alive were some Women and children that were captured by the raiders, to be ethier sold into slavery or to be raised up as warriors of the Kara-Khanid Khanate. Axilles looked over the village burning away from a small hill that looked out towards the some other small villages and towns. Behind Axilles was the Mrymidons ,There name coming from their leader Axilles, a small group of around 20 men that were close friends of Axilles and had been fighting alongside him since he was a small child, these men alongside Axilles all had horses and were endowed with some of the best armour money could provide being paid for by the personal pocket of a Khan's grandson. "One the Seljuk hear of this, they will want revenge Axilles do not forget that." Axilles's closest friend and blood brother Darudkin spoke as he rode just behind Axilles.

"I know, War is coming but I fear that was the plan all along. Tell the men they can take what they want but they are not free to go just yet. We will raid one more village before heading back and the men will stay there for now I believe that his grace the Khan will want every last person he can call upon. That is what the Great Meeting is about." Axilles turns to face Darudkin. "My Grandfather is going to call upon the whole of the Khanate is to war, all of Turan. From the deserts of Transoxiana, to the plains of Cumania, to the mountains of Tibet and everything in between. For him... for all of us Darudkin this war will decide what comes next." Axilles rides his horse closer to Darudkin and hands him a coin bearing the face of Barkyaruq however his face has almost been scratched out "in the town square I want you to put up a cross of Mani. Make sure it is clear and when we have finished the next village do the same."

"This war Axilles it is going to be like nothing we have seen before will it?." Darudkin asked taking the coin from Axilles's hand and placing it inside a small sack he had.

"No Darudkin. This war is going to decide the fate of all of Turan, Iran and the whole of the Turkic peoples. My Grandfather has dreams to declare himself Emperor of the all Turks."

Samarkand, Kingdom of Sogdia
24th November 1095
Aslan Alp Khan, Khan of the Kara-Khanid Khanate

The throne room of the Palace of Samarkand was filled to the brim with the many different tribes and lords of the peoples of the Khanate from Oghuz Truks, to Kipchaks, to Sogdians, to Persians, to Mongols. The many different groups had all gathered here and were near collapsing the throne room because of it. As the Khan walked in however his long robes and personal bodyguard making a clear divide in the mass of people. "All hail his grace, Khan of Khans and ruler of Turan." A courtier shouted the whole room fell silent to the Khan's presence. The khan slowly walked up acknowledging a few people as he walked up towards his throne where is wife and some family were sitting, his personal guard formed up infront to protect the khan. He sat down and as he did so proclaimed "Please brothers lend me your ears and thoughts." Aslan made himself comfortable looking across his vassals he could see the face of his empire and the people that inhabited it. "For too long. The people of the steppe have remained here. For too long have our people had to fight against one another. But that changed we became one Khanate, united under the guidance of one Khan and the gods. Mani has blessed our people with peace and yet I do not feel as though we are at peace..." The crowd looked a slight bit stunned for many had know that the Khanate had been at peace for nearly 20 years not since the great conquest of Xinjiang. "And I know the reason why. Because our as we remain at peace our lands dry out, tribes want to fight and fight each other for control over small plots of land. I say brothers that it is time for our Khanate to expand for us to seek green pastures for our flocks to which our the gods will give us. I say to you all now that our fallen brothers to the south the Islamic Seljuks have fallen out of grace with the gods and the father of greatness. They have chosen the words of the false prophet Muhammad" The Khan quickly spits on the ground after finishing his name. "This is why I have gathered here his holiness the Archegos here to announce a deceleration." the archegos quickly stud in front of the throne with some of his apostles accompanying him. The crowd quickly knelled before standing up the only ones not being the Khan and his royal family since the archegos and Khan were seen on a similar level. "Brothers and Sisters in Mani. Warriors of Light, and the spirits that are with us. The day is come to expand our faith beyond the lands of Turan and the Khanate. The truth of Mani must be heard by all people, and we as loyal and truth follows must spread the light into this world of Darkness. As Archegos of Mani, I hereby declare a Qasïetti soğıs against the Seljuk Empire to punish the Seljuk dynasty for there heresy and to give the word of Mani to the people of Persia and the middle east. It is the duty of all Manichaens to join this fight"

"And as Khan of Khans, I declare war against the Seljuk Empire in support of the Qasïetti soğıs and I call upon all my vassals and tribes men and their tribes men to join me. This will be our burning war against Islam and the oppressors of Zurvan's people." Aslan quickly stud up pulling his sword and pushing it into the air with a might cry of "The Father of Greatness guides all!"

The crowd answer back with a even mightier "The Father of Greatness Guides all" their swords now also in the air. Just after this happens a messenger arrives in the throne room he quickly makes his way towards the Khan as he kneels down in front of him. He is barely able to talk as he falls down looking like he had been riding for days he quickly speaks "The Seljuks have declared war on us they are amassing an army." The crowd fell silent before someone started to laugh which quickly spread throughout the room spreading the Khan who let out a chuckle. "It would seem Brothers that the Seljuks think they can fight us."

Summary-
Axilles continues with his raiding attacking some small villages.
The Khan has declared war on the Seljuk empire calling all of Vassals to war against them.
The Archegos, spiritual leader of the Manichaens has declared a "Qasïetti soğıs",a holy war, against the Seljuks.

by **Chinniwana** » Sat Apr 06, 2019 2:37 pm

BATTLES:
FATAMID CALIPHATE/SELJUK EMPIRE:

SICILY/HOLY ROMAN EMPIRE:

by **Valtrona** » Sun Apr 07, 2019 7:00 am

{Kingdom of Georgia}

[December 5, 1095]

As winter arrived in the land of Georgia, the Kingdom received diplomats from the Kara-Khanid Khanate. The Khanates declaration against the Seljuks gives the Kingdom a chance to expand elsewhere in the Middle East. Yet, King David IV does not yet want to go to war in winter as it would be highly risky. The King responded by sending their own emissary to further discuss future relations that will benefit both sides. Meanwhile the Georgian emissary returned with a letter from the Roman Emperor himself, asking for his assistance. King David IV realized this was a golden opportunity for expansion, yet winter would hamper any offensive against the Turks. He responded with a letter sent to the Emperor via another diplomat.

Dear Emperor Romanos IV of Rome,

In response to your letter, we would be happy to accept an alliance to drive the filthy Turks from the land of Christendom. However, the Kingdom of Georgia is not yet ready for such an attack during the winter. We would like to wait and prepare until early Spring of next year, when we would begin our attacks to the Sacren states to our south. We wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors, and may God be on your side in these troublesome times.

With the most Sincere Regards,

King David IV, King of the Kingdom of Georgia

With the news from Constantinople, King David decided to begin an early mobilization of some of his military forces. In Dvin, King David rallies a small contingent of forces to protect their Southern border and to be ready for an offensive in the Spring. Meanwhile, the Georgian nobility banded together and decided to allow for King David IV to centralize the government further, as long as they would get proper compensation for such an action. This was mainly influenced by the recent conflicts in the Middle East, which threatened the stability of Georgia and the noble’s prestige and Powers.

—————————
Summary:
- King David IV sent another emissary to discuss further relations with the Kara-Khalid Khanate.
- Georgia accepted an alliance with the Romans against the Turks, but would not begin any military offensives until Spring.
- Georgia began to mobilize some of its soldiers in Dvin in preparation for the Spring Offensive.
- In light of recent events, Georgian nobles reluctantly agreed to further centralization of the Georgian state to combat the Turks.

God Wills It! (IC/AH/Nation)

God Wills It! (IC/AH/Nation)

November 27th, 1095 - Request Denied

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