Europe: The Dark Continent (IC)

by **Soviet Chernarus** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 9:40 am

Empire of Vijayanagara
ವಿಜಯನಗರ ಸಾಮ್ರಾಜ್ಯ
ಕರ್ಣಾಟ ಸಾಮ್ರಾಜ್ಯ

Mediterranean Sea

With trading privileges having been secured with the Mamluks, groups of merchants, generously funded from the imperial treasury, have begun passing through their lands into a vast sea, with strange peoples and exotic customs. Indian cotton, spices, jewelry, and even steel has begun to be traded, along with many other goods. While trade has currently mostly been confined to what is now Northern Africa, it is expected that trade will spread and expand as knowledge is gained and new lands "discovered" by these merchants.

Imperial Palace
Vijayanagara
Empire of Vijayanagara

Confined to his bed, the feeble Maharaja could barely walk, even with assistance. He stayed in his room for the majority of the day, as servants brought him food and tended to his needs; officials brought him forth recent news, but the Maharaja soon found the effects of aging impacting him, as he was not able to make decisions as well as he once did. The great king, the conqueror of entire nations and cities, the man who had accomplished what his predecessors failed to do after decades or war, was now only able to nod, occasionally inputting his opinion. His health had deteriorated rapidly over the last few months, and most of the nation's affairs were beginning to be handled by trusted officials whom the Maharaja himself had appointed, much to the disappointment of his sons.

As one official arrived to his room, he informed him of a plea for help from the merchants of Gujarat; a region which had been thrown into turmoil following the slow disintegration of the Delhi Sultanate. Tatar Khan, the son of the governor of Gujarat, had ordered his father to take advantage of the situation and march on Delhi, but was promptly refused. Infuriated, he would imprison his father, taking the army and resolving to march on the capital himself. Poisoned by his uncle, Shams Khan, Shams would take a portion of the army, looting Gujarat before fleeing with the riches. A large-scale rebellion would occur shortly after this, adding more chaos. High taxes imposed by the ruler of the region would rile up the merchants, who had enough of the instability and chaos; inviting Vijayanagari troops to invade the region, it had been accepted by officials but it was up to the Maharaja himself to approve this move, which had become more of a formality than anything else.

After voicing his approval, the official departed. The Maharaja found it harder to think, with his mind having been worn down. He felt aching pains for hours. He was tired easily - it seemed that most of his day was spent sleeping and eating, with little time for anything else.

by **Era the Mind** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 11:47 am

Ilzacoatl & the Proclamation

All around the leader of the alliance that the Aztecs had taken up to defeat a horrid foe there was music from the sounds of drums, and the voices of men and women, and dozens upon dozens of people were dancing. The group was celebrating a victory that they had just gained word of, but Iltzacoatl had taken a group of high statured men to the side away from the celebration to speak of things of high importance. There he stood, among this group of men draped in the now customary leather armor studded with gems of onyx that they had taken a liking to, attempting to choose his words carefully.

“Tonight, we have celebrated victory over our foes and the total control over this valley, but we must also think of the future. I have decided that I will be sending an exploration/conquering force of 120,000 men to the south, as having heard word back from the 70,000 to the north I have come to the conclusion that there are lands of plentiful, fertile soil, and gorgeous animals.” The men looked among each other as their emperor drank from a golden cup, setting it down to speak once more as he took in the reactions of the men. They were surprised that he was still using such large amounts of men, but the massive amounts of land that they had to explore were going to be hard to traverse, and they needed more than the usual amount of land. Over 2,000,000 soldiers were under the control of Iltzacoatl, and he was going to make use of them.

“This group of 120,000 men will be let by Ohtli's brother, our esteemed general Ihuicatl, and accompanied by a group of cartographer's much like the northern party was." The men cheered Ihuicatl, and Ihuicatl gave a wide grin.

“We need to expand, and train our soldiers, and as such I will also be putting our group through extremely difficult training regimens. These regimens will involve training them in a variety of weapons, non-stop day-to-day regimens, and will often lead to the death, or even people dropping out of their conscriptions.” Some of the men frowned, but they nodded as they understood that they needed to improve efficiency to become a stronger fighting force that embraced quality instead of quantity.

“I have also spoken to a man known by the name of Necali, and he has been creating a new written language that embraces something new. I have also backed his attempt to teach the masses how to read and write this language, which he has been developing for the past decade. I am proud to say that our children are our future, and with our mandatory education for every man, woman, and child, that we will be the brightest nation of the land!"

Necali, the Education, & the Written Language

Once, the only written language that the Aztecs had was basically a bunch of pictures, but now after twelve years of hard work the scholar and priest Necali has created a gorgeous handwritten knowledge, and taught it to the priests of the land. His life’s work has been an attempt to teach those others than priest how to read and write, to make all the people in the land intellectuals capable of embracing the beautiful art of writing, and now with the backing of the Emperor he no longer has to rely on his children for this. Necali had a smile on his face as he looked up to his class, and he acknowledged that while this would be something difficult that these young children were the future of his nation.

He had already taught them the basic alphabet that he had created, and now he stood to approach one of the students he noticed was having issue reading the material out loud. He pointed simply to the place on the codex that the class was passing around and using as a talking stick where he was supposed to be reading. The boy muttered his thanks, and Necali began to patrol around the room under the watchful gaze of some of the parents.

The parents were here to see what all the fuss was about, and even a few of the Imperial court were here to see if they could get private training for their children so that they didn’t have to attend this public schooling. Necali, as head of education of the Aztec Empire, was opposed to private education, and instead recommended that they donate if they want the public education to be greater. Seeing how excellent the children were doing was leading to the wealthier nobles, and the Imperial court members to seriously take this thought into account, and Nicali could already see the local public schools being better funded.

Centenite & the Ship

Centenite was a brilliant inventor that could be compared to many of the world’s greatest inventors had the Aztecs known to compare these people to them, and now he stood in front of a drawing of a relatively small ship that he wanted to put into production. He had already lettered Iltzacoatl, and behind him were the Imperials that Iltzacoatl had sent to look over the situation so that he could give his idea to them. He based the drawing off of one of the things that he had seen a long time ago, sailing across the land, and eventually landing on the shore that he was at.

Centenite almost lost his life that day, but now he bravely stood here as the Imperials prepared their thoughts, and questions, with the wealthy man’s near-shore home sporting a dock he built himself, and the boat itself. The Aztecs had some experience in how to create boats, just enough to explore some of the eastern islands, and he was enjoying the feeling that the boat builders he had hired were competent enough to build a boat capable of housing twenty four men. They may not have had cannons, or anything similar, but the holes where those were supposed to be were capable of being seen.

If only Centenite had been able to bring those strangely colored men who strayed from their path from a few years back into his home so that they might be able to educate him on how this worked. All he could do for now, however, was sketch, and build a boat that could greatly expand the empire’s reach if the Imperials wanted to fund the project. Aztec culture was advanced, and inventors were lauded for their intellect, and Centenite was about to be embraced by the Imperial courts.

Ohtli & the Warrior’s Band

It had been several months since Ohtli had been sent out with the 70,000 men, 12 cartographers, and the several dozen or so architects that were going to help in the building of new cities, and the exploration of wherever it was that they were going to go. Within each of the 3 groups there were several scholars, so that the men didn’t kill themselves by eating the wrong fruit, and now Ohtli was at the camp he was commanding everything from.

Ohtli had began the construction of 3 forts spread out several dozen days away from the nearest city, and he was speaking to a few of his higher ranking men about his trips between them, and how his visits to their commanders went. There were around 10,000 men stationed here at this camp, and they were busy building some actual shelter, and making sure that they weren’t all going cold from the rain. It was an interesting season this day, but Ohtli had his thoughts on the fact that reports were coming in about men that were spotted who wore odd body paints, and loin cloths, and he acknowledged the fact that, perhaps, there were others farther out from the city.

There had long been reports about these mysterious men,, and the way that they looked, but no one he had known had actually been this close to one until the last night. There had been peace for a while, and it was as if people had disappeared from the land over the past decade, but perhaps they were just hiding from the Aztecs. Last night Ohtli saw one of these supposed savages himself, and he enjoyed the thought that maybe his warriors would get to enjoy a good battle. If they didn’t, however, it was no big loss, but the land couldn’t be this vast without other men around them, and the Aztecs knew that there had to be more than a few factions, and lands, and Ohtli was going to relish in the battles to come. He was a tactician that craved war, and peace had gone on for too long.

by **Remnants of Exilvania** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 12:58 pm

[quote="Remnants of Exilvania";p="26875812"]

Kingdom of Bohemia
Große Entscheidungen werden nicht durch Reden order Wahlen getroffen sondern durch Blut und Eisen!
(Great decisions aren`t made by speeches and votes but by Blood and Iron!)

Prague, Prague Castle, Planning Room

"Meine Herren! It`s clear that we have to act now. Many of you believe that we`re pushing our luck with all this conquest but I tell them that they`re wrong. Europe is shattered. Kingdoms and Empires have fallen and all that is left has to utilize what little it has left to survive now. It`s the pefect time for us to harvest the fruits of Europe. The seeds for this war now ongoing in many parts of this once great continent have been planted a long time ago. And now that the dirty heathens are coming from the south we have to stand together and restore order in these lands we call our home to fend them off. This includes the conquest of nearby territories which once belonged to us or should now become ours. Our army is at it`s after plague peak right now and can deal with those minor threats thrown at us. I ask you: What shall we do in order to establish ourselves as a major player in the worlds politics again?"

At first Lord Eckard von Pilsen only received applaud from one of the other 4 members of the Regency but soon all of them stood up and applauded. With a satisfied smile on his face Eckard walked up to the table situated in the middle of the room. It featured a great map of Europe, North Africa and some parts of Asia. The so called "Known World". On this map were several flags stuck into the known capitals of known nations while small miniatures in different colour and size portrayed armies and their strenght. Of course the map didn`t show many more armies then the Bohemian ones but atleast some greater amounts of troops in Germany. They usually got these informations from the farmers who often had to deliver foo to those armies as it took quite massive amounts of food to sustain these.

Eckard pointed at Tyrol. He then looked up at the other members of the Regency who had also walked up to him.

"We need to expand to this very point to protect our german comrades from this muslim threat that dared to take the holy city and destroy the remnants of many italian kingdoms and duchies. and our furthest expansion point south should beeee...The Austrian Mediterranean coast! With this we should be able to finally get trade over the seas going. It also allows us to prepare the war against the heathen threats and later launch an invasion force from there. Tyrol while serve as a defensive line. We`ll build fortresses in there. COmbine that with the terrain of the alps and we should be able to shield ourselves from the Italo-Muslim threat. Any objections?"

by **The Ik Ka Ek Akai** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 2:29 pm

Togeria wrote:
The Ik Ka Ek Akai wrote:
She decided, evidently, to return the compliment, "But certainly the Moorish cavalry has its advantages, no?" she asked, "in Arabia, they tell stories of the famous Afriqiyyun lancers." she said with a smile. While she did have to recognize the blatant efficiency of the Bedouin raiding tactics in rapid destruction of a foe, she felt almost obliged to say something nice back. It was only polite, after all. She felt a strange feeling inside, though, like she shouldn't be polite. That this whole situation was wrong. The man before her was a Muslim, and she'd grown up all her life with the elders telling her only bad things about Muslims. She'd been told they despised all women, that they would never respect her. They were prudish and snobby. A Muslim killed her father in cold blood, and yet here she was, conversing with one. She wore no veil, she covered herself rather poorly, but here this man showed her respect and compliments.

"I thank you, but I can affirm it was only an afterthought. Our focus in Aymendia has always been to hit the further as they say,'Hit your opponent before they can hit you'. We've always favored archery and our cavalry here, and with the addition of your people it seems we may have the most cultured and trained bunch of cavalry in all of Europe. I must say when you first arrived I was surprised, I didn't know the queen of the Benduin had taken interest to our little land much less stay, but I must say I'm glad you made your decision to stay the culture and traditions of your people have indeed in many ways helped our growth. I guess in ways our people have learned as much from yours as yours have us."

She found herself smiling at that. It seemed so silly, but it was true. The interactions between the Bedouin and the Moors had a nice effect on both sides. In particular, Hadiyyah was finding out how little the Muslims resembled the stories that the elders had told her. "I am glad to hear." she replied, "And I am honored that we have been allowed to stay in your fertile lands. It has helped our tribe far beyond measure, and the gifts we have been given ensure a quality of life we did not know before." She stated this, sniffing her gloved hands to catch a strong whiff of the perfume they had been soaked in.

by **The Peoples East Africa** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 3:31 pm

Sabo Gao, Capital of Faransa
A week had passed since the camping eastwards of Faransa, and the trade caravan had finally reached its goal. The city of Sabo Gao was massive, far bigger than Warsaw, though not half as beautiful. The bustling port was something most of the men had never seen, Dariusz Okan however had seen many in his travels across Europe, which he didn't hide. Being an officially Islamic country, the more devout of the travellers felt nervous, although that quickly vanished when their recognition of the Polish Pope was confirmed. Hanging on a church they walked by on the way to the trading centre of town hang the Papal Declaration given by Urban V on his election.

''They seem to acknowledge our ways, but why the slaves?'' bemused Dariusz to himself. ''Says a lot, needing to trap your fellow man to run an economy.''

Reaching the city centre around noon, stalls and carts were set up to spread their load. Furs and grain and oxen products were what made them stand out, and it was certainly obvious. Small time traders, perhaps only owning a farm or a trade route crowded around them en masse. Most had never heard of an ox, let alone touch its pelt. The food produce of the east seemed to exist nowhere else in the city, so it wasn't known were they being bought to be eaten or to be bragged about. The day went on, and the goods of the city rolled in. Spices of the Far East were the most luxurious good traded that day, tied only with silk. As the trade time came to a close, Dariusz sat with his thoughts on the day's activities.

''You know,'' he said to one of their stableboys, grooming his pony. ''That Emperor may be mad, but I say he picked well. I could get used to this,'' he finished with, running his hand through a fine silk blanket.

The Emperor's Quarters, Warsaw
Emperor Kazimierz was hunched over his wooden desk, studying the response that had arrived a few days prior from the German Emperor. Ensuring a solid relationship between the two nations was vital, so he thought it best to consider carefully his words.

To: Emperor Lennart Dörflinger Döhl
From: Emperor Kazimierz the Pious of Poland

Salutations most powerful Emperor of the German People! I thank you for a swift reply.

In the name of the Polish people and state, I graciously accept your offer of betrothal with open arms! It has been fourteen years since Cecylia's birth, so once the Prince Urs Kühne Döhl is of age, she will be ready for marriage. Warsaw is a noble city, and to be the home of a such a high ranking prince would be an honour. Although Muhammad's followers are our eternal enemy, I will send a diplomat to Ukrainistan to see if our differences can be mended. The Central Pact is a fine idea, and one which will be fulfilled! Our current army is undergoing a training exercise to the south, and to know we have a powerful ally to assist us if ever the need rises will be a relief to some of our more fearful citizens. Of course, the offer runs the other way. We have little contact with Bohemia, though we trust your wisdom.

Of another matter, I ask for your approval. As you do, Poland ventures out to unite the Polish people who inhabit Earth, no matter where they lie. To the north lies a province of sizeable acreage, known to us as Chelmno. Currently they are ruled over by the Teutonic Order, who we know to be under your defence, which is why I implore you to ask them to gift it away to my Empire, it is only right.

May God and Christ be with you always,
Yours sincerely,
Emperor Kazimierz the Pious of Poland

The letter was sealed and sent off, as well as another notice being sent to a stable in the south. A rider carrying good intentions of Poland was to set out once the battle to the south was over, and to forge a friendship with Ukrainistan.

South of Poland
The sun was after rising on another fine day, but not all was fine on the ground. Blood was being spilt, and bodies were being cut down. Konstantyn Chrobry was out the front of them, his sword erect in his hand, though never staying still. With every swing a new man would fall dead, some would come from the side, but before they could do anything his shield was up. This would daze them long enough for another soldier of the might Polish army to come in for the kill. When ever a rush was tried, a storm of arrows would come flurrying down to end their lies.

This was the sixth hour of the third day of battle, and things would soon be over. Already much of the province had surrendered, but the few local lords who refused the rule of Poland had banded together, combining their forces, and it added up to jack-all. A third of the forces Konstantyn captained, at most. The cavalry had ridden far behind the enemy, and soon would come in to crush them. Of the lands that had been scouted, 8,000 people was the number the scouts came to. A sizeable increase, and the roads and towns remained undisturbed by the warfare. Konstantyn was already tasting the victory, and the glory that would soon be his.

By an hour later, the glory truly was his. The celebrations took place right on the battlefield, as he wished to return quickly to Poland. A few tents had been put up, and vodka was poured out for many. The heads of the enemy's generals were beautifully hanging on spikes outside the entrance, and every passing soldier made sure to give them a spit or a stab. The swiftest rider in his army was sent north to give news of the conquest to Warsaw, and to prepare the roads for Konstantyn's next move, a battle eastwards.

New Territory: http://imgur.com/5MlmnTi
New Population: 108,000

by **Era the Mind** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 4:35 pm

Zuni - The First Encounter

1,000 men had detached from the camp’s primary force to meet unknown forces gathering outside of the camp’s defense border a few kilometers away. These men, once identified by getting closer to them, were known as the Zuni. The Zuni had been avoiding the Aztecs for quite some time, evading their forces, but the Aztec camp was noted to be fairly close to one of their cities. The other Aztec forces had detached in the opposite direction, yet the camp still posed a threat in the eyes of the Zuni, so the local village’s leaders gathered several hundred men.

The Zuni were a regional power according to the codex that the Aztec Lesser Commander leading the forces had, and the young man had a slight frown on his lips. However, the group that was confronting them a few kilometers outside of the camp, and making their own camp outside of their village, were smaller than their force. The Lesser Commander, Achauhtli, was worried that this would go badly.

He had been sent by the Commander himself to lead 1,000 of the group of 10,000 of the forces best men to confront the forces gathering outside, but he acknowledged the language barrier would cause an issue. He yelled out to the Zuni a greeting, who responded with a strange, raging scream that could only be described as a war cry as they rose up, and gathered into a formation.

“Shield wall!” Arrows came raining down upon the party, and the shield wall, which had been formed hastily, was penetrated in some areas by the thirty or so arrows aimed at it. The arrows killed at least 4 men, and wounded several others.

“Archers!” Archers of their own fired at the shieldless men flaming arrows, and downed quite a few. The Zuni had been forced to run outside of their encampment, and several arrows hit the easily burnable village behind them.

“Damn,” Achauhtli commanded the spearmen in their heavy, and thick leather armor to raise their bladed weapons up against the men charging at them now with two fingers.

“Archers!” He raised his own spear, and he impaled a man with the obsidian tip of the blade.

The battle would be over in a few hours, the enemy village burned to the ground, and a new territory conquered by the Aztec group, and the Mayans that accompanied them. Achauhtil just hoped it would have gone differently.

Past the Mayan Expanse

Past the expanse of the Mayan territory, a gathering of 120,000 men had split into two groups and occupied the two territories just southeast of the nearest Mayan cities. They encountered no other indigenous men, and were able to lay out a camp to rest. They each sent a messenger, and a convoy, back to the Aztec Commander at Mayan capital closest to them.

New Territories
Current Population: 5,678,221

by **Akksum** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 5:43 pm

Berlin, North German Empire

Suum cuique! (To each his own!)

Emperor Lennart Dörflinger Döhl sat in the throne once his fathers, smiling towards the court just as his father did. He had Cross strung placed on the walls to bless the building, and the nation from heathens. Though he took after his father, believing that just because one man doesn't follow the same religion he should not be prosecuted for such. He believed that a man should be forgiven for not believing in the same faith, such as what Jesus had done. He forgave those that even crucified him, for the sins of others. The doors of the palace were opened, allowing for a messenger to come in, bearing a letter...

North German Empire-Baden/Wurrtemburg Border
General Christopher Gegenbauer
1st Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 5th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Calvary Regiment, 1st Archer Regiment (2nd Army of the North German Empire)
Operation Surprise Party

General Christopher Gegenbauer arrived at the border of the North German state for one of the last pushes in the campaign. He knew this province was quite easily one of the last expansions for the German empire in the German unification but he knew it wasn't the final push for expansion. The realm was easily stabilized because the threat of outside powers, and the HRE lands were being united by a HRE power. He smiled as his troops went over the border, moving towards Stuttgart...

North German Empire-Hesse Border
General Siegmund Fleischmann
2nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Regiment, 6th Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Regiment, 10th Infantry Regiment, 1st Calvary Regiment, 2nd Archer Regiment
Operation Blind Paladin

General Siegmund Fleischmann ran over the border of Hesse knowing the capitals of Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate were so close to each other. He had to just reach the capital city of Hesse and then he was right next door to Mainz the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate. His troops went over the border, knowing if he got to Saarland the final push before General Siegmund Fleischmann his long time rival, he could claim the victory of finishing the German Unification campaign...

by **Korhal IVV** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 7:32 pm

Orthodox States wrote:
Korhal IVV wrote:"You're very welcome here!", said the town mayor as he walked down from the town in his usual morning clothes before the guardsmes can say anything.
"So you are looking for the priest?Come in and see him in the church. He isn't saying Mass yet so you can talk with him."

Khan Ganbaatar thanked the mayor for his acceptance and told his horsemen to keep watch on his horse. He also gave his weapons to his horsemen, who put the weapons on the ground along with their weapons, obviously not in the same pile of course. The Khan then walked into the city, and walked the streets to find the "Church", and more importantly, the priest. As he was walking the streets, he was getting more and more impressed at how successful their unnomadic lifestyle had become. Traders from almost all regions of East Asia appeared to be here, selling a variety of items such as Spices, Religious symbols, and sometimes Jewelry. However, this travel was about religion, not about ideas to settle the Tribes. Finally after a period of walking what appeared to be what the mayor called a "Church" was found. It looked like some of the other buildings, however the "Church" had something that set it apart from the rest, a Cross. A Cross very similar to the Nestorian Mongolians that were exiled only years before. He stepped inside and hoped for the best.

When he walked inside the Church, he was amazed at the scope of it all. The rows of chairs, which obviously showed how many people followed this religion. The Art on the walls, amazingly realistic and beautiful, showed a bearded man holding a book. Could this be the man called Jesus Christ that the Nestorians called The Son of God? He saw an altar with what appeared to be a very large book, called a "Bible". The Khan was overwhelmed at the superiority of this faith in comparison of Tengriism, he had found his new faith. He saw a person in robes who greeted him, and told the Khan that he was a priest. The Khan began to ask many questions, such as "What is the tenets of your religion?", "Who is the founder of your religion?", "What is there in the afterlife?", and finally, "How do I convert to this faith"?. The Priest began to answer as many questions as he could, and The Khan took in every word, mesmerized at the answers, and eagerly waited to be formally declared what the Priest said is a "Orthodox Christian".

The Priest declared him to be Christian, and then handed the Khan a BIble, smaller than the one he owns but is newer. "Study it, and you shall know all the answers to the questions pertaining Christianity."

The Khan was baptized the same day, and he was given the responsibility to make his people. Missionaries will be sent to convert the Mongols to Christianity.

Southern Japan

As the 8 clans conquered Japan, they first took central Japan and defeated the Mori clan, afterwards they look upon southern Japan. The seperatist Chokosabe and the pacifist neutralistic Otomo clans were all that stood in the way.

Nagasaki
The Chokosabe fort of Nagasaki stood in the distance in a field that has been turned to a white snow blanket by the cold winter. The 8 armies stood marshalled 900 meters away, setting camp and resting through the night before beginning the assault in the morning.

Eight hours later...
After the cold night passed, the entire allied force rose from their sleep and prepared for war. After 4 hours they finally stood in the field, fully armed and armored.

After several minutes, the brass cannons started blasting the walls of Nagasaki. The Chokosabe have been demoralized by the 3 day long siege;they have been constantly bombarded by cannons in the day and flaming arrows in the night. The walls crumbled as cannon balls wore it down. Half of the allied army charged through the gap while the rest destroyed the gates with cannons and charged through the way, eradicating resistance but sparing civilians and surrendering soldiers. After 2 hours of battle the armies finally reached the keep, where the Chokosabe general, Yamahori Naga resided. The general of the Chokosabe taunted the Ashikaga general, Yoshimitsu, to a duel. The Chokosabe was killed by an arrow shot by one of the Ashikaga elite archers, as the Chokosabe never considered that the Ashikaga are not honorbound and will break honor laws just to achieve victory. Southern Japan now stood ripe for conquest, as the Otomo, who are pacifist, were simply given autonomy, never resisted.

by **Togeria** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 8:33 pm

The Ik Ka Ek Akai wrote:
Togeria wrote:"I thank you, but I can affirm it was only an afterthought. Our focus in Aymendia has always been to hit the further as they say,'Hit your opponent before they can hit you'. We've always favored archery and our cavalry here, and with the addition of your people it seems we may have the most cultured and trained bunch of cavalry in all of Europe. I must say when you first arrived I was surprised, I didn't know the queen of the Benduin had taken interest to our little land much less stay, but I must say I'm glad you made your decision to stay the culture and traditions of your people have indeed in many ways helped our growth. I guess in ways our people have learned as much from yours as yours have us."

She found herself smiling at that. It seemed so silly, but it was true. The interactions between the Bedouin and the Moors had a nice effect on both sides. In particular, Hadiyyah was finding out how little the Muslims resembled the stories that the elders had told her. "I am glad to hear." she replied, "And I am honored that we have been allowed to stay in your fertile lands. It has helped our tribe far beyond measure, and the gifts we have been given ensure a quality of life we did not know before." She stated this, sniffing her gloved hands to catch a strong whiff of the perfume they had been soaked in.

"I can see you have adopted the peninsula quite well, and we have every attention of making your stay here as comfortable as possible. You're peoples settlement and protection of the north has encouraged more to migrate that their, in many ways the Benduin are the guardian angels of the Moors and Italians."

by **Hippie Kiwis** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 8:56 pm

The Hasfid Sultanate

Tunis Harbor
Tunis was a bustling city. The Harbor was home to merchants from all over the Mediterranean and beyond. Hazem al-Misr, 4th Vizier to the Sultan, was preparing to board the Galley Swift Gull. The Gull was carrying salt, and a diplomat, to Sheba. Only the Sultan and Hazem know why.

Malta
The City of Valletta was once a proud shadow city of several Crusader Castles, a pitstop on the way to the Holy Lands, but the fortresses were abandoned during the plague, and the castles have since been re-occupied by Hasfid warriors. The ghost town of Valletta has since been repopulated by berbers and moors. Yet nowadays, an unusual amount of Xebecs bobbed in the harbor, and there seemed to be a disproportionate amount of scholars, soldiers, and Imams. A few of the smartest Vallettians could puzzle out what this meant, but most people knew nothing of the grand scheme the sultan was preparing.

by **Bill Cosby Island** » Mon Dec 07, 2015 2:49 am

The Tokhtamysh Khanate- The Wolves of Europa!

Tana Epak, Ukrainistan

Kashin moved through the streets of Tana Epak with several thousand men on their horses following him. The Khan proudly held up his banner, and it waved ruggedly in the wind behind him like a salmon swimming upstream. Three red crescents, augmented with a yellow sun and the Mongol flame, decorated a blue field of the banner which had two yellow stripes on the top and bottom (the blue and yellow representing the colours of Ukraine). He held his head high as he rode in front of his men, and the commoners around him gave him looks of awe and admiration. He had returned from battle.

One by one, soldiers dropped out of the marching band, heading towards their homes. Many had already left the army, as they lived in tent camps outside the fort. Women and children would walk up to the armies, eyeing if their husbands and sons were in the crowd. Lives had most definitely been lost in the campaign, and tears were shed. But at the same time, many families in Tana Epak were reunited, which would bring a stable and happy peasantry to the fort. Each man would have a story to tell of the grand campaign in which Crimea had been conquered and the King had been slaughtered.

Kashin moved several streets down before reaching the gates of his palace. It was a grand piece of Classical, Gothic and Old Eastern European architecture, surrounded by a newly-planted garden and fountains. Kashin had not seen a garden here when he left- however, he had ordered his three sons to organise for one. Wildflower plants grew but had not made their buds just yet, while lush green bushes and trees had been ripped out of the ground, carted off to Tana Epak and planted in the garden. The statues around the palace had been cleaned, too. He would have to thank his three oldest boys for keeping everything spick and span in his abscence (although maybe not Airat, he thought to himself, as he was indolent and disobeyed Kashin's orders).

Kashin rode his horse over to the stable near the palace. It had several men's horses, not just his, and they all neighed excitedly when they saw their fellow Equine move into its stall. Kashin smiled at the obedient white stallion that was his and walked over to the front door of his house. He knocked on it loudly, and after fifteen seconds or so it was opened.

Yasher stood at the door, his small frame tense with surprise. His eyes widened and he brushed his fringe above his forehead. "Yasher, my boy!", said the Khan, embracing him in a bear hug ,"I have not seen you in so long! You have grown, too!". It was true- Yasher had grown in height noticeably, but not by that much. Yasher would probably either disbelieve it or shrug it off though. Yasher smiled at his father. "Me and Zagip have done our best to run the realm", he said ,"It was hard, but we have done our best." "Well, the garden has done well, that's for sure", said Kashin, ruffling his son's hair ,"Let's go inside, shall we? It's a bit nippy out here." The two headed inside to meet Zagip sitting on a lounge in the hall, sharpening his hunting knife with a block of wood. He jumped up when he saw Kashin and hugged him. "Father!", he said ,"I have missed you very much! How was your trip? Were you victorious?". "As a matter of fact, I was", said Kashin, shining with pride ,"We killed the rat and stole his loot! Speaking of loot, how's the treasury been doing? Have you kept Airat's enjoyment of worldly pleasures to a minimum?" "Yes", said Zagip ,"he's been problematic as always, but nonetheless we stopped him from being too much of a problem." "That's good", said Kashin, nodding. He wouldn't even bother to check up on Airat- he would probably be angry over his older brother's restrictions on his power.

Kashin headed into his office to see a weary traveler standing on the carpet with his horse. Kashin jumped back and ran as fast as he could towards the two boys. "What's going on?", asked Kashin ,"Why is the horseman standing in my office?". "Oh, he came as you were entering the gates of the city", Yasher said ,"We told him to wait for you to come." "Ah", Kashin said ,"Must be one of the Turkish envoys coming to ask me about something, maybe congratulating me on the campaign. Thanks."

When the Khan walked in, the foreign envoy was smiling. He wasn't a Turk though- his complexion and dress told the Khan he was a native, probably from the North and a Slav. Upon asking it turned out he was Polish. There was also a large letter on his table, which at first glance was about a trade deal.

TO: Emperor Kazimierz the Pious of Poland, Most Wise Protector of the Polish People and State
FROM: Kashin Khan, Khan of The Tokhtamysh Khanate and Protector of Ukrainistan and The Crimea

Greetings, esteemed ruler! It is a very pleasant surprise to get this message from you asking for terms of friendship indeed. I am glad to hear of you- it seems the Polish state has survived the ravages of the great plague.

Regarding said friendship, your envoy has been rather vague (he claims these were your orders). I am assuming you mean good relations in spite of religious differences, something I am happy to do. After all, my bloodline has bowed to Tengrii, Buddha and Allah throughout history, so a fellow person of the book is a good friend of mine indeed! To help our relations I will send merchants from the forts of Caladda and the Dneister banks, where some of the finest furs in all of Europe are caught and prepared for use. I will also promise that my realm will never in a thousand years attack yours unless it is in defense of our own holdings and peoples. I hope the day this letter reaches you and every day following it are the happiest days of your life. God bless you.

Sincerely, Kashin Khan of Ukrainistan

TO: Sultan Barquq al-Zahiri, Proud Sultan of the Mamluk Sultanate of Egypt
FROM: Kashin Khan, Khan of The Tokhtamysh Khanate and Protector of Ukrainistan and The Crimea

It is good to see your envoys come into my realm. Both of us will be made richer by any trade trade, so it is extremely beneficial that this happens. I also thank you for your gifts to my citadel, and I announce formally that your merchants have every right to trade in Ukrainistan and the Crimea provided they obey our laws while in my realm. May wealth come to you from our future encounters.

Sincerely, Kashin Khan of Ukrainistan.

TO: The Most Grand and Powerful Sultan of The Aymendian Empire, Guardian of Rome and blessed by Allah
FROM: Kashin Khan, Khan of The Tokhtamysh Khanate and Protector of Ukrainistan and The Crimea

Greetings, friend. It is good to hear from you- I hear business has been good in your realm, and for that I am happy. I would like to start some more business for you by opening up trade with you- Ukrainistan has many furs, timbers, coals and livestock products that we would be happy to trade for whatever you have. A military alliance, however, is not in order right now, as we are too far away. However let it be known that I regard you to be a good friend of mine and from now on I will never attack your realm without prior justification.

by **Archegnum** » Mon Dec 07, 2015 11:24 am

Canterbury, Kent

Archbishop Michaelacox sat at his desk, high in the Cathedral, his finger arched together. He wore a simple robe of white, his ceremonial mitre and gold stave forgotten for the time being. His hair was grey, and his beard long, but age had not yet clouded his vision - nor his cunning.

Across the table sat the Bishop of Rochester, Robert Jarvis, similarly dressed but far more agitated. It was not every day, after all, that one was summoned to an audience with the representative of God Himself. He clasped a prayer book loosely in one hand, while the other rested on the desk, fidgeting.

"Jarvis." said the Archbishop, fixing his steely gaze on the man opposite. "I have brought you hither today to inform me of the condition of Rochester and its Diocese. I cannot trust any mere messenger with such a task - many seem to fear me, or respect me too much to share bad news with myself. I trust that your motivations will be less... individualistic, and more in the interests of the state. Kent must be prepared to deal with whatever problems may emerge from the Yonderlands (OOC: a Kentish term used in reference to the largely depopulated and lawless regions of former England)."

Jarvis cleared his throat, noticeably nervous. Michaelaxos was not a man known for his lightness of temper, though he was know to keep a level head when the interests of the nation were at stake.

"Your Grace, I cannot lie to you before God. Of course you are aware that, in the ninth month in the year of our Lord 1399, a contingent of Kentish soldiers was sent to occupy parts of the border regions beyond the Thames, into the southernmost lands of the former East Saxons. I am pleased to announce that there were no new cases of Plague to be found, nor did any of the men suffer any adverse effects from entering that land." Jarvis paused to take a breath.

"However, the news is not all as you may wish, your Grace." The Archbishop leaned forward to listen, resting his elbows on the table. "A scouting party was sent to London, in an attempt to make contact with the former English government. I regret to inform you, your Grace, that the city lies in ruins, populated only by prostitutes and bandits. It would seem the last caravan of Londoners that crossed the Thames three years ago truly were the last."

"So, the city lies empty."

"Yes, your Grace."

"In your opinion, Jarvis, how could this simple fact be exploited, to better the position of the Archbishopric?"

"Well..." the Bishop paused again, unsure how to respond. This was not the reaction he had expected. "The city lies at a strategic point, your Grace. It controlled the trade of the Thames in its days of glory. If Kent were to control it - and this is only my opinion, your Grace, I have little knowledge of economics - the North Sea trade routes would be even more inextricably in our grip."

"Excellent, then we are in agreement. Oh, don't look so surprised, Jarvis, I knew about this weeks ago. I am close friends with a priest at Sevenoaks - he it privy to much of the goings on beyond the border - insatiable evangelist, that one. Can't seem to stop himself wandering out there to 'help' the barbarians. Anyhow, I am pleased to have a second opinion."

Jarvis' jaw tightened, confused. It was an unpleasant experience, being used. "Your Grace, you intend to occupy London? Have you considered the risks - the sparks? How will the other English successor states respond to such an action?"

"Peace, Jarvis. This will not happen overnight - we scarcely have the troops to maintain order in Ashford and Sittingbourne, let alone London. When the time is right, you know as well as I do that Kent will take its rightful place at the helm of a new England, one that will be guided by God and God alone, as Israel was in the wilderness. Have peace."

by **Republic of Coldwater** » Tue Dec 08, 2015 3:09 am

The Angle-Scots Dominion

The gelid wind seeped into the harbor of Scyflande as King Wæfyn II looked upon River Ness, streaming into the burgeoning trading post. Scyflande was once a city, far greater in extent and size, only to be consumed in the great fire of the bubonic plague. Many buildings remain deserted, as they are slowly resettled by this nation. Outside the city, endless farms produce the sustenance for the people of the land, as a group of knights on horseback come back with the heads of a village chief they just slain. Wæfyn was a mere 33 years old, and was born when his mother, Aldora was a mere 14 years old. An experienced fighter in conflicts against tribes, and a master swordsman, Wæfyn was more concerned with military matters than civil ones, leaving civil matters to his brother, Ashton, and a few other members of the High Court of the Dominion. Wæfyn has recently made a large investment in the navy, hoping to become a major seafaring nation. He understood from the few ships which landed in Scyflande that a few other small states on the British isles, and that to the east, mighty empires unseen since the days of William existed, lurking upon the teetering edges of Europa.

Walking down the steps of the castle, and into the bustling streets, citizens looked upon Wæfyn as if he was another man. Wæfyn never paid much attention to his clothing or his appearance. There were days where he would come back into Scyflande littered with the blood of the beasts or tribals he slain, and soiled with the mud and gunk of the rainy highlands. Always walking around the city, he has become just another citizen in a city of eight thousand. This time, he was to observe the building of ships. Using designs from the invaders of the far north, and texts and images from the past, large, effective ships can be made. As he walked into the central area of the city, he met the knights. He saluted the knights as they bowed before him, presenting him the decapitated head of a tribal leader disturbing the city of Ymbsittendra to the east. "We killed him", said the commander of the group. Wæfyn observed the rotting head. Cleaning cut off his head, with no shattered bones, but a clean, nice cut, Wæfyn was impressed by their swordsmanship. "The lord is on our side" replied Wæfyn, as he proceeded to the docks of the city.

At the docks of Scyflande, a few ships streams down from the Abhainn Nis, as others come from the icy north. On those docks, slowly and slowly, pieces of wood and cloth are conglomerated to form seaworthy vessels to expand the Dominion across the frigid oceans. As the flag of the dominion flutters in the winds from the north, the overseer of the building, Prince Wíglaf stood before his uncle, saluted him, and simply said "Calamities, few, and far between". Wæfyn nodded his head, and observed the serfs slowly, yet assiduously assembling the war horses of the land.

Wæfyn was impressed, and knew that it would give the Dominion more power. At the same time, he wanted to expand the dominion. The land to the east was sparse, with few people, living in small communities and in tribes. The lack of any centralized power makes it ripe for conquest, and Wæfyn was lustful for conquest. Though he does have issues with uncivilized tribes to the northwest, they are a minor issue, and he knew that if he could expand, the Dominion he leaves behind shall be one of great power, and expanse, one which may assert its hegemony in this Scotsland.

by **Togeria** » Tue Dec 08, 2015 7:11 am

As the letters reached the interior of the state it peaked the interest of the Moorish who didn't expect for their message to reach the Khan to the east, and expected far less for them to write back. This in of itself was incentive enough for Moorish to send a message back, especially as trade was to be had.

From: Aymendian Empire
To: Kashin Khan of the Tokhtamysh Khan

We thank you for taking the time to hear our message and more so responding. You have offered us trade, and justly we accept we have the finest leather of the Mediterranean, cloth, as well as wines so decadent the pits of hell try and fail to cross to the world of the living in hopes of sipping their taste.

As the Hasfid ships reached the coast of Sheba they were welcomed as friends of the state and those inside promptly escorted to the state hold to begin a meeting to decide the fate of both nations.

by **Tracian Empire** » Tue Dec 08, 2015 8:59 am

The Grand Duchy of Muscovy
Великое Княжество Московское
Μεγάλο Δουκάτο του Βαρβαρίας

Novgorod, capital of the Novgorod Republic, under siege by the armies of Muscovy and Elysium

It was a cold day in the city of Novgorod. After long days of blizzard, the weather was finally starting to clear. The once proud capital of the Novgorod Republic was only a pale shadow of its former glory though, and now, with the troops of Muscovy at its gates, its end was drawing near. The plague almost entirely destroyed the trade the Novgorod Republic was built on, weakening it, and starting a decade of internal strife. It didn't take long for one of the many factions fighting to call the Grand Duke of Muscovy. With the death of the old Duke, and with the support of both Russian and Greek nobles, Theodore Palaiologos took the position of regent for his nephew, the new Duke of Muscovy, John Palaiologos, that was going to marry the daughter of the now dead Duke Vasily in a few years.

The few opposing Novgorodian troops had been defeated by the new troops of Muscovy, led by the Grand Duke himself, with the help of Theodore Palaiologos, of course. The first battle ended as mostly a draw, with both sides losing a few hundred people in a forest skirmish, but unfortunately for Novgorod, Muscovy had a way to replenish its lost men. A few weeks later, the troops of Novgorod were caught between the Greek troops led by Palaiologos, and the main forces of Muscovy. It ended with a slaughter of the Novgorodians, and a few days later, the siege of Novgorod had begun.

After a few good weeks of siege, the defenders of Novgorod were exhausted. During the night, various pro-Muscovy supporters started a small scale rebellion inside the, and after hours and hours in which the catapults of the Muscovites launched rocks and flaming objects at the city, the morning on the final assault came. With support from the archers, the soldiers slowly but surely brought their ram to the gate. The dwindling number of defenders use everything they had, from arrows to rocks to keep them away, but everything was useless. One hit. Two hits. Three hits. Four hits. Five hits. At the sixth hit, the gate was broken, and the soldiers of Muscovy entered the city. Heavy fights continued throughout the day, but at the nightfall, the red flag with Saint George was waving over the tower of the cathedral. Novgorod had fallen.

In the following months, Muscovy was going to slowly but surely swallow the rest of Novgorod, but without its capital, no other major resistance was going to happen, It was only a matter of time..
Muscovy's expansion in the following time

by **Era the Mind** » Tue Dec 08, 2015 9:50 am

Iltzacoatl, Part Two & Necali - The Education & Written Language, part Two

Iltzacoatl sniffed as he drank from the hot chocolate from the golden, gem-studded cup that he possessed. The dark skinned man hadn’t received word from his forces to the north and south yet, and even though it would be impossible for said word to have reached him he still grew anxious. Iltzacoatl was a brilliant, yet impatient man that was growing weary of the world around him. He hosted around 2,100,000 soldiers around his nation, and the Mayans hosted nearly 1 million themselves, which meant that their alliance had a total of three million soldiers, and he was completely unaware that he needed to send out more soldiers to back up his allies in the upper lands.

The emperor sighed, and then began to wonder where the Priest that said he would come teach him how to read and write this new written language had been. The Aztec priest stated that he had aid from the Maya in the creation of the language, and with how advanced the Maya language was the emperor was surprised the Priest could transfer the concepts to the Aztec language. The decades of work it was said to have taken must have been absolutely ridiculous, and Ilzacoatl felt some pride build up in his stomach.

He peered with his emerald eyes into the deep, chocolate beverage before him, and then one of the Bladed Children (which was an organization that could equate to the pages, squires & knights of Europe, but had drastically different culture) approached him while kneeling.

“Emperor. May I speak?"

“You have spoken to ask such a question? Heh, next time just say it.” Ilzacoatl said with slight amusement.

“The man of knowledge has arrived, and he said he is ready to teach you should you have him join you."

Ilzacoatl nodded, and rose so that he may go speak to the Scholar/Priest Necali. He smiled smiled as he saw the man, and wrapped his arms around him in an embrace.

“Come. We shall have you, our guest, drink chocolate, and dine for you have come such a far way from your home."

“No, emperor. I don’t live too far away, and you don’t need to waste such courtesies on a mere priest."

“You speak to our Gods, and you have traveled here! Before we begin these lessons you speak of, you will drink the chocolate, and you will dine on the food our Mexica people have prepared for you."

“Of course, Emperor. Thank you for such hospitality.” The priest Necali nodded, and gave a slight bow as Ilzacoatl led the way. Soon he would be able to teach Ilzacoatl with the teaching materials he had brought.

Centenite - The Ship, Part Two

Centenite hummed gently, and watched as men were building around five more ships to his specifications. He had recently received approval, and, though Ilzacoatl had not yet received word, the Imperials had allowed him to use his men to continue to build for the Aztec state. These boats were being built on a dock in Mayan territory out near the great, unending sea, and the man could enjoy the feeling of salt on his face.

He was going to have an entire fleet to himself by the time this was all over, and it was going to be one of the greatest experiences he would have in his life. His vision was finally coming true, and once Iltzacoatl sent more gold for him to buy men to build ships, and docks, then he would build an even greater amount of these ships. All he wanted to do was venture to the islands that he could see on the horizon. He had never been there before, and by the time a few months had passed he would have six of these twenty-one man holding ships, and he could venture out to the lands.

Past the Mayan Expanse, Part Two

Two new territories had been explored, and the Mayan group was winding down some so that they could send word back to Iltzacoatl, and so that they could build up their new towns. It was going to be quite the dif

Zuni - Border Skirmishes

Across the plains and hills of North America, the Zuni, the Aztec Empire and their Mayan Vassal, the Apache, and the Navajo were encountering each other in various border skirmishes across the lands. Word had already been sent back to the Aztecs so that they could hold their positions, and go forth to conquer the Zuni and whatever other allies had opposed them, but it would take a few weeks for them to reach the capital and get Ilzacoatl’s approval.

Things were brutal out in this battlefield, and the 70,000 troops that they supported were going to barely be enough to combat the Zuni. Already their forces were spread far, first in a group of 10,000 of the best soldiers at the base camp, and then in two groups of 30,000 protecting the flanks of the nations. Ohtli knew that there were other soldiers on the boarders of the Aztec Empire, and so he sent word to them, and in a month or two he would receive word back on how they were doing. Communication was slow right now, as they had to travel by foot, but they were successful in their attempts to communicate most of the time.

Right now Ohtli was looking over the latest report of the battles. The Zuni were unsuccessfully trying to take out 70,000 soldiers in one fell swoop, but they were sneaky bastards who directed some of their troops to other positions, and attacked in a terrifying way. The Zuni had taken at least 400 troops already, and while Zuni losses were far higher it was definite that by the time this war was over that the 70,000 soldiers here would be capable of taking on far more than what they had originally been capable of. This was going to be a good experience, but Ohtli feared what it would be like as the Zuni mobilized across the borders that they possessed. The Mexica/Aztecs would need to build strongholds at a later point in time, but right now all that they had the time to put together were camps. Hopefully those would hold up against the Zuni.

Meanwhile, the Apache were gaining the upper hand with the Navajo, but the Zuni had already taken two Apache territories, and cut another one off by barricading it on the inside. The Apache had a stronghold in an area where the Navajo, and the newly acquired Zuni territories met, but it wasn’t clear how long this would last. That Apache territory was one of the only with a stronghold as large as it was, and it sported over 50,000 men that were fighting for their lives at this moment. The landscape across Mesoamerica, and territories reaching outside of there were changing, and while things to the South were peaceful and towns were going to be built up for a few weeks, while eventually cities would be built, it was clear that things in the North were chaotic and that the Aztecs were about to be outnumbered.

Updated Map

by **Alsheb** » Tue Dec 08, 2015 2:53 pm

Sheikdom of Nejd
Central Arab Peninsula

The invasion of the Banu Amin ancestral homelands had progressed as expected. Some minor resistance from tribal leaders and fanatic pagan forces had been no match for the Mamluk army. The march had been a slow but steady one, only delayed because of the desert terrain and the scarce population that made it difficult to really lay claim on the land or determine where exactly the Banu Amin were.

General Mahmud, the leader of the Mamluk invasion force, was content. The Banu Amin lands, at least nominally theirs after the bulk of the tribe left for Italy years ago, were annexed into the Mamluk Empire, with the new name Sheikdom of Nejd. The Sultan had already seen fit to appoint a Sheikh of Nejd, who would operate under the direct supervision of the Emir of Hejaz in Mecca.

Regarding the population, the situation was still a bit unclear. The population of Nejd consisted mainly of tribal, separate communities, differing widely in customs, cultural practices and even religion. Several tribes appeared to already have embraced Islam long ago, while others still clinged to their old polytheistic faith. There were even reports of Jewish Bedouin tribes in the vast expanses of the desert. The Sultan had decided to only use the name Banu Amin for the pagan tribes, and the land claim of the Sultanate would be extended to every plot of land these heathen tribes inhabited. In his wisdom, Sultan Barquq had also decided to grant religious freedom to the heathens, on the condition that they would receive dhimmi status and as such pay an extra tax in coin or goods to the Throne in Cairo.

by **Sanabel** » Tue Dec 08, 2015 7:59 pm

The Princedom of Faransa

The Yarima is silent the entire day after discovering the death of yet another son during childbirth. Yet another lost heir. He is shocked. Disappointed. Angered. But mostly afraid. Afraid for the continuation of his dynasty. His next in line is his nephew, by marriage. A foolish young Breton. Not a great leader to lead his people. What his son must be. That night, the Yarima sleeps under linen and wool, sheltering him from the cold winds outside his massive stone palace. But it is a light sleep, one of fear and restlessness. The people of Faransa will need a leader.

The next day, he traverses Sabo Gao to the governance palace. Upon his arrival, he is informed of the arrival of royal visitors - from his homeland. Mali. Of course, he orders for a military escort of the men from the gritty docks of the port city to the luxurious palace, for a welcome feast and discussion of state matters in the presence of the court. He orders this orally, without a written decree of any kind. There need not be a decree for such visitors. They are brothers. Honored guests, but of the same blood.

by **Victores** » Tue Dec 08, 2015 9:13 pm

House of Central Planning

The head of the board str on a mat going through knot records, the writing system devised on his personal order was yet to become widely know. The central planning board controlled then entire Inca economy, regulating all trade, it theoretically controlled all means of production. The latest reports were of a flood in the Northern State near the Amazon Basin. The knots spoke of at least 30 farmers dead, thousands of axe-heads in property damages. There were about 30 farmers left homeless by the disaster. Six labor units were left damaged, meaning a poor harvest for the village as a whole. This rope was sent to the board of feasts to arrange a feast for the village and secure agricultural aide.

Imperial Palace

The emperor had just come out of a warm bath and was in a good mood, other whys he would have executed his entire high command. “You Holiness, we lost 30,000 soldiers to Amazon Hill tribes” reported one of his Major generals. “You lost THREE ARMIES” shouted the enraged emperor, “to HILL TRIBES”. “Your Holiness, we were ambushed while launching a punitive expedition” said another general. “Well, launch another punitive expedition with 4 armies”said the emperor. “That last one was with 5 armies” said a general. “Agh, I’m demoting you all to Hatun Apu” said the Emperor “I’ll be bringing in some newly trained officials from military in the Western State to replace you”. “Remember, I won’t be giving you pensions unless you kill yourself fighting for the Empire”. The enraged emperor stormed off to a resting room on the other side of the palace.

The Resting Room

“Ahh, I expected to find you here when one of the Apu told me about the disaster” said the Head of Central Planning. “Is there anymore bad news” asked the emperor. “Well its mixed, We have a massive grain surplus in the Northern State, but because of amazon flooding, a dangerous situation in the Eastern Province” said the Head of Planning.

by **The Northernmost Americas** » Tue Dec 08, 2015 10:36 pm

An extract from A History of the Ottoman Old World, 1400-1500
When news of the Mamluk incursion into Arabia reached Adana, Bayezid burst into a fit of laughter that lasted for minutes. When calm, he sent orders for the Ottoman navy to commence a blockade of Mamluk shores. Meanwhile, an envoy was sent to northern Italy, along with a large number of conscripted merchant ships. The Banu Amin were to be given the chance to avenge their defeats. Bayezid took his army - which he had spent the winter assembling for an invasion of Mesopotamia - and advanced into the Levant. His heir, Mehmed, took a smaller force and headed for the Mamluk colonies in the Caucus. Ali Pasha remained in Adana to wait for the troops yet to arrive from the Balkans.

Bayezid's force reached Aleppo within a week and laid siege to the city. For all Bayezid knew, the main Mamluk force would be bogged down in Arabia or garrisoned within Cairo. Despite this, he detached a sizable cavalry force to watch for the advance of a Mamluk army. While Bayezid waited for his siege train to arrive he attempted to make contact with the sizable Kurdish and Syrian populations within the city. He hoped monetary gain and the removal of Mamluk rule would convince these groups to offer him a way into the city.

by **Akksum** » Wed Dec 09, 2015 9:44 am

Berlin, North German Empire

Suum cuique! (To each his own!)

Emperor Lennart Dörflinger Döhl sat in his throne looking over his court, yawning into his arm tired as it was 8:00 P.M. in Germany, he looked towards the people still about in the court. He heard the doors moving open, and a person walking into the doors. He stood up from his throne, looking towards the person that held a letter in hand. He waved towards the person, walking towards the map room where he took the letter, and read it over...

Stuttgart, Baden/Wurrtemburg Border
General Christopher Gegenbauer
1st Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 5th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Calvary Regiment, 1st Archer Regiment (2nd Army of the North German Empire)
Operation Surprise Party

General Christopher Gegenbauer arrived in Stuttgart, a major city even after the plague. Trade bustling through the inland city, as if it was on the coast. The population was surprisingly large for a city devastated from the plague. Though the city itself put up minimal resistance, he witnessed the culture and how diverse the North and South of Germany was. He sent a letter back, as he split up his army into even divisions of 3,250 into two separate armies taking the largest the, 3,500 units to go across the province. They were going to meet up at the border of the next province....

Wiesbaden, Hesse
General Siegmund Fleischmann
2nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Regiment, 6th Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Regiment, 10th Infantry Regiment, 1st Calvary Regiment, 2nd Archer Regiment
Operation Blind Paladin

General Siegmund Fleischmann marched his army towards the city which tried to fire arrow at them but quickly ran out of ammunition. His army returned fire, easily decimating whatever defense was on the walls. They set up the ladder storming into the city, which still was quite large but easily noticing how devastated it was. They arrived within the city watching the horrific site of what had taken hold in the city. The army set up the militia unit within the city, before setting out for the next capital city....

by **The Ik Ka Ek Akai** » Wed Dec 09, 2015 3:12 pm

Togeria wrote:
The Ik Ka Ek Akai wrote:
She found herself smiling at that. It seemed so silly, but it was true. The interactions between the Bedouin and the Moors had a nice effect on both sides. In particular, Hadiyyah was finding out how little the Muslims resembled the stories that the elders had told her. "I am glad to hear." she replied, "And I am honored that we have been allowed to stay in your fertile lands. It has helped our tribe far beyond measure, and the gifts we have been given ensure a quality of life we did not know before." She stated this, sniffing her gloved hands to catch a strong whiff of the perfume they had been soaked in.

"I can see you have adopted the peninsula quite well, and we have every attention of making your stay here as comfortable as possible. You're peoples settlement and protection of the north has encouraged more to migrate that there, in many ways the Bedouin are the guardian angels of the Moors and Italians."

"You flatter me, truly," She replied, being quite honest in her opinions. She shifted her stance a bit, just a bit, and by doing so appeared more relaxed, not being nearly as formal as she had been previously. A soft sigh, barely audible, escaped her lips as she looked over the Moorish leader once more. Many thoughts raced through her head, not the least of which was that she had perhaps been too harsh to the nation of Islam previously. Still, her people would not convert. They were proud, and like she, they believed in the Meccan goddesses, but a certain tolerance, maybe, was to be found instead of endless wrath.

by **Licata** » Wed Dec 09, 2015 6:12 pm

Oslo, seat of the Kingdom of Norway

King Tyr awoke to the familiar smell of a roaring fire. The faint sound of men sparing, merchants haggling, and the breathing of his favored concubine, Adda, roused him to his feet. A chill from the coast swept in as he moved his fur blanket from his body Bloody hell he thought, the cold never gives one rest. He pulled his fur robe on from a chair next to his bed and made his way to one of his clothing chests, from it he drew a thick tunic, fur leggings, and his favorite pair of court boots. After dressing he equipped his belt, hanging his beared hand axe in 't, and left his room for the hall after covering Adda.

Entering the hall, a few courtiers sat about the table, ending their fast. Prince Yimir sat next to Frist Raider Odo Akerman, Tyr could make out what they were speaking of as he made his way to the head seat of the great table, Odo was sharing his tales of his escapades with a group of sirens off the coast of Midt Norge. As he passed some courtier rose their cups to him and praised Tyr for his courtesy.

Taking his seat, a freewoman serving the house brought a platter with freshly cooked ham, bread, and fish cooked with herbs purchased from neighboring countries. Yimir rushed to the side of his father, took up a pitcher of mead and poured his father a cup. "Diligent as always, Yimir. How fares brave Odo, I heard him sharing his tales." Yimir smiled and he sat the pitcher of mead on a serving table nearby, "Odo's stories make me want to see the world for m' self. Odo always say's tha' there's glory to be won beyond our lands." Tyr ate a slice of ham and took a sip from his cup, "Oh, and just what glory is to be had? Someone as young as you should think of other things, eh? You still can't best me in a fight." Yimir laughed, "Not even Odo can best ye, m'lord. I can best some of your soldiers, if they can fight I can too, father." "Ay, but you can't raise a shield high enough to cover the man next to y'," Tyr continued eating, "Go'n, ask Odo to take ye huntin'."

(later in the day, just before the passing of Noon, Tyr called upon his captains to discuss the invasion preparations.)

Tyr "The Great" Einherjarsson, black of hair, blue of eye, light complexion, strength of body; Odo Akerman the First Raider, brown of hair, green of eye, nut complexion; Vaugh Olesen Thane of Oslo, grey of hair, blue of eye, light complexion; Christian Pilkvist First Knight of Oslo, blond of hair, green eye, light complexion; Jabari Massoud Thane of Stavanger, brown of hair, brown of eye, dark complexion; Aart Thorn "The Defender" First Shieldbearer and Lord of Halded; blond of hair, blue of eye, light complexion, scarred across face; Oberon Arud First Ranger; silver of hair, blue of eye, light complexion, swift of foot; Huscarl Faust Bergstrom; brown of hair, green of eye, nut complexion.

Tyr entered the war room, his war council was gathered, a map of the known world was sprawled across the table. "How fares the all?" "Good m'Lord," replied the lot. Odo stepped forward "Say, Tyr, we've been preparing for just over a year now, who're we goin' to be fightin'? We've got two thousand uneasy sods, craving some blood." Aart spoke out as well; "I've been preparing our lads m'Lord. The men and women await a battle. O'er twelve thousand have sent us their daggers to be called upon fo' war. The men seek action sir." The others too admitted their curiosity.

"O'er yonder t'wards the West, we've the Britons, to the East we've Weders, and to the South we've the Danes." Tyr took a chair. "I say we consolidate our power, th' Weder realm is shattered, the old Kingdom exists in only name. They war with one another monthly, e'en in the Winter months we've seen them campaign. Their land is tired, close too. Our realm's stability has long been alluring for Wedes landless, they'd be eager to have new rule." Tyr pointed to Vastra Gotland, "Here we will strike."

Oberon took to the map, "This is the land of a lordling called Knut Lejon. He's but a few hundred levies for war. This land will fall with ease if we move with haste. This sort of folk scare easily. M'liege, now would be an opportune time for war, I've word a deal of merriment has softened their men." "Is that so?" Tyr rubbed his beard and took to his feet. "Lads, we march in a week. Ready our standard and the bands, call upon a 3 thousand of th' volunteers. Jabari, ready some two hundred engineers and shipwrights."

(The week of preparations has ended, the army of Tyr "The Great" is on the border of the Weder realm. Tyr's army consists of; 500 light cavalrymen, 34 knights, 1,400 light infantry, 1,100 archers, 2,500 heavy infantry, ~1,400 Northmen mercenaries, 100 engineers, ~100 hedge knights, and 300 Semite warriors)

A constant stream of chilled wind blows through the Norwegian formation. The commanding captains and Huscarls gather before their liege on the eve of the Great Pagan Invasion of Sweden. "lads! On this day, we, as brothers, lash out at the world! Our great Kingdom of Norway, for too long has remained forgotten in the world. On this day, this second, you and I take the first steps in forging an empire. We will lead the troubled folk of this world to a greater future, as Odin permits, Let us forward to war!" Tyr rose his sword in the air, his men cheering. His chosen warband of Huscarls blew their war horns, inciting all officers in the army to do the same.

The horde marched forward with haste over the border. Peasants and a few watchmen on the border fled the encroaching force. The peasants in the region loyal to the lord Lejon took refuge in a town called Arjang. The news of the Norwegian horde reached the garrison, who took up arms and awaited just outside of the town, just shy of 100 men. Some thirty minutes later, the army of King Tyr was in sight. The garrison turn and ran to their lord's castle, abandoning the town. A small makeshift militia formed and gathered to face the Norwegians with pitchforks and cooking cutlery. A messenger from King Tyr offered Amnesty for the price of loyalty, the locals accepted. Tyr garrisoned the town with 150 veteran huscarls to keep the peace.

Tyr deployed his light cavalry force to offer the same to a small parish a bit farther north. When they arrived, they were faced by a small force of 20 knights and a monk. A temporary standoff ensued until one of the light cavalrymen dismounted and approached unarmed to delegate the message. With the caveat that Tyr take none of the wealth of the parish, they accepted.

Tyr's main force reached the castle of the Lord Knut, who made no attempt to sally forth to engage the invaders. Tyr's men encircled the small holding and began digging a trench and started work on a palisade of 8ft's height out of reach of the castle's defenses. 800 men took the a nearby forest and began collecting timber for the encirclement, a camp, and for siege engines. Tyr set in for a siege, but he sent an envoy to Lord Knut offering the same he'd offered to the Monks and simple folk, amnesty. But upon discovering that the envoy was a Pagan, Knut had him decapitated and split open on the ramparts and displayed him to his foes.

by **Orthodox States** » Wed Dec 09, 2015 7:04 pm

The Great Mongol Tribes

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Korhal IVV wrote:The Priest declared him to be Christian, and then handed the Khan a BIble, smaller than the one he owns but is newer. "Study it, and you shall know all the answers to the questions pertaining Christianity."

The Khan was baptized the same day, and he was given the responsibility to make his people. Missionaries will be sent to convert the Mongols to Christianity.

Khan Ganbaatar thanked the priest for helping him find the truth in Christ, and he went back outside to his horse, but not before reading his Bible for a bit. His soldiers was waiting, and when given the order they grabbed their weapons and went on their horses. The Khan did the same, and they set off to their tribe. As they rode to their tribe, the soldiers began to talk about Tengri, and how he smiths their enemies. The Khan stopped them, and started to try to convert them. "Nay! for Tengri does not preach glory or honor, he preaches for the animals and the land! But are we not of sound mind to realize that we have been forsaken by Tengri, who would rather support the animals we hunt? We shall put our faith, and our glory, unto God, and his son, Jesus Christ!" said Khan Ganbaatar. The Soldiers were amazed at his zealotry about God, and they started ask some questions. The Khan responded with the teachings of the Bible, and when they were done reading Genesis 1, the Khan closed the Bible. " Spread the truth you have learned today, and put your faith unto God".

Once the Khan reached his encampment, the Soldiers went off to their nomadic villages/hunting grounds, to spread the truth about God and Jesus. They obviously would not be that good at conversion, they would only provide an idea of God so that when the missionary's came then they would be hopefully converted faster. The Khan ordered the Tengri shrine to be converted to a Christian shrine, Which would remove all Tengri symbols and offerings, which would be replaced with homemade crosses and the Bible the Khan was given.

As The Khan sat at his encampment, his courtiers asked him how was the trip, and if any thing had come out of it. The Khan responded coldly "I have learned the Truth about God, that our ancestors decided to ignore for all these years, How they could have ignored his greatness when they had the Nestorians here, offering glory and truth, is foolish." The courtiers didn't respond, and walked off, confused on what this meant.

As night fell, the Khan was reading and studying his Bible, when a thought reoccurred. How would the other tribes react to his new faith, and its spread? He pondered the outcomes, which included Civil war over what should be the faith of the Mongols, or the conversion of the Mongolian population to Christ. He would make sure the missionary's would try to convert the population first, then the Khans, in case they deny Gods truth and fight Ganbaatar over his faith. He decided he would plan out his defenses/policy's on each of these outcomes in the morning. He resumed reading his Bible in his Ger, and soon closed the Bible, prayed to God and Jesus, and went to bed, exhausted from the trip, but satisfied in his new zealousness in the Lord.

by **The Peoples East Africa** » Thu Dec 10, 2015 2:53 pm

Emperor's Quarters, Warsaw
Emperor Kazimierz had a quill in hand as he sat in wooden stool. Far worse than the throne he was accustomed to, but a break now and then made for a nice change. All was falling into place, the conquest to the south had expanded Poland's borders, the estimates from his scouting parties had returned a number of 500,000 Poles not currently in the Empire. Once all were united under the control of Warsaw, phase 2 of Poland's rise to power would begin.

To:Emperor Lennart Dörflinger Döhl
From: Emperor Kazimierz of Poland

I give you a thousand thanks for your assistance in uniting the Poles of Europe. I will provide the pretender state to the Teutonic Order's land an ultimatum, either to give Chelmno to my control, or face the consequences. The Prussian Kingdom's land would provide you with an enormous boost in power, which through the Central Pact will strengthen us both. Gaining access to the Baltic Sea for trade would stimulate our growing economy, as we have many goods for trade. I, Emperor Kazimierz of Poland, hereby recognize the German Empire's claim to the territories currently occupied by the Prussian Kingdom.

Yours sincerely,
Emperor Kazimierz the Pious

To: The Current Ruler of the Prussian Territories
From: The Emperor of Poland

Three blessings upon you, most noble king to the north. I contact you today on behalf of Poland, and the Polish people. 15,000 citizens occupy your kingdom, in your province which neighbours my own Empire, called Chelmno in the native tongue. These peoples feel no attachment to the Germans who rule them, as they are Poles, both in blood and culture and language. I hereby request for the lands upon which they dwell to be transferred to my control. I understand you may have fears about what might come from this, but I can assure you I intend no hostile actions to transpire between us. If you refuse, I cannot guarantee peace to remain.

Yours faithfully,
Emperor Kazimierz the Pious of Poland

After being sealed and sent, another letter of different origin arrived. In the aftermath of the southern conquest, the Emperor had ordered a rider to make contact with the heathen state of Ukrainistan to the south. While he had a swift horse over open plains, their response came far faster than he expected. Surprisingly, the Khan of their lands was more than accepting of friendship and trade.

To: Kashin Khan, Khan of The Tokhtamysh Khanate and Protector of Ukrainistan and The Crimea
From: Emperor Kazimierz the Pious of Poland, Most Wise Protector of the Polish People and State

Greetings oh might Khan of Ukrainistan! Indeed, not only has Poland survived the ravages of the plague, but we thrive in this day and age.

Good relations are precisely what I intend. The Polish people and Empire both follow the ways of Christ and the book, so any nation to follow the one God can be an ally of ours, despite a rocky past. Your non-aggression pact is one which I promise on my son's life to abide by. Your gesture of trade is well appreciated. In return, I shall organize for a caravan of Polish goods to venture forth to your lands. The finest cattle meat and grain in Europe are grown here, and I'm sure your tastebuds will find them acceptable.

Yours sincerely,
Emperor Kazimierz

Europe: The Dark Continent (IC)

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