alex994
Hail Divine Emperor!
das said:
Indeed! Why am I getting such an excellent vibe for a future Hitlerish Han dictator?
Denouncing the Ulaks as sub-human and unfit to live, he will point out the "Taej words" and commence revising history! 
DNES2: War and Civilization
- Thread starter Daftpanzer
- Start date
Indeed! Why am I getting such an excellent vibe for a future Hitlerish Han dictator?
Denouncing the Ulaks as sub-human and unfit to live, he will point out the "Taej words" and commence revising history!
alex994
Hail Divine Emperor!
Really strangely, a previous post I made in this thread hasn't appeared 
KrimzonStriker
Master of the Dawn
- Joined
- Oct 3, 2005
- Messages
- 1,933
Late orders?! You went to sleep right before I sent the e-mail, so don't go pointing the finger at me!!
Story by tomorrow by the way!
~Darkening~
Weep, Mother.
Excuse you? My orders were sent on time! Not my fault you went to sleep and got them after the deadline! Sleep is for the weak!
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
Ontop of my usual sluggishness, i had a couple of downer and anti-creative days this week. anyways, i was almost going to post it tonight. Only the stats remain, but they still need a lot of work, and i dont feel up to an all-nighter. Ill post it tommorrow night, but i should be able to post it in the early evening (probably 10:00 PM GMT)
I also dont want to post the maps or anything else, incase i change my mind about things as im doing the stats.
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
OOC: @TerrisH, your nation sortof divided again. Half your guys rebelled and went to fight to defend Agre, instead of attack Tusca, cos they are fanatical like that. Also, one spending point couldn’t be spent as ordered, you can probably guess which one.
NPC diplo at the end for andis-1, Luckymoose, Disenfrancised, Das, alex994, The Farow, Lord_Iggy and Warman17
The Orian Empire has been taken over by a mystery player…
Dead nations = Azar Khanate, Tarnas
New nation = Garuda
IC:
250 AD – 275 AD
Tensions and ambitions that had been bottled up for centuries are finally released.
From the eastern coasts of Europe, to the north west frontiers of asia, massive armies on the move and whole empires are thrown into chaos.
---
War:
Videssian resurgence and rebellion
After years of inactivity, the borders of Videssos begin to expand again. Videssos invades the Azar Khanate with a large army, including many new light horsemen to tackle the Azar’s cavalry tactics.
The Azar warriors fight back bravely, but are outmatched in both quality and quantity. Fighting on their home terrain allows the Azar to inflict some damaging ambushes on the Videssian forces, but its never enough. Videssos pushes steadily southwards as the Azar begin to collapse into separate warbands. The important trading city of Ranpor, with its mostly Rayamese and Phos-worshiping population, makes no attempt to resist the Videssian troops, and opens its gates to them.
Videssos: -1 Haloga Imperial Guard, -1 Vaspurakan Infantry, -2 Pikemen, -1 Namdaleni Cavalry, -2 Horse Archers
Azar Khanate: -5 Spearmen, -6 Horse Archers, -6 Horsemen
Meanwhile, the Patriarch of Videssos calls for an end to the tolerance of non-Phosist faiths. The Videssian army is further encouraged to wage a holy war and crush the heathen leadership of Azar. But at the same time, a rebellion takes place in the north east borderlands. The rebels call for the tolerance of tribal Nakuri and Tungusi beliefs. Some ambitious garrison leaders, who are willing to turn against central authority and take lands for themselves, stir up more trouble. The ranks of the rebel forces soon include some of the local garrison troops, along with all kinds of bandits and native tribal warriors. Even some forces from Ryzovy join the rebels, hoping to remove Videssos’s hold over their country.
With most of Videssos’s troops tied down in Azar lands for several years, it is impossible to stamp out the rebellion. It spreads further, until the important city of Kybristra also falls…
Videssos: -1 Vaspurakan Infantry, -2 Pikemen
Ryzovy: -4 Tribal Swordsmen, -2 Pikemen, -1 Horsemen
Tian’s northern expansion
In 250 AD, the nation of Tian is a hive of activity. All kinds of reforms are being enacted, specifically in education, government, and the military. The military we shall focus on for now…
A new law is enacted, forcing all able-bodied men to train with the army for two years, to prepare them for future use as conscripts. While in service, they are also indoctrinated with the ideals of Tian and a sense loyalty to the state. This puts a heavy strain on Tian’s manpower, continually taking many people away from the fields, mines, and workshops. But it does improve the training level and loyalty of those who are eventually recruited into the army.
With massive amounts of resources, organisation, and motivation, a large new army is assembled. Tian prepares for war, to reclaim its birthright and restore former glories.
First, the new army is sent north against the ‘Desert Ulaks’. These are tough fighters, and know how to use the desert to their advantage. Tian overwhelms them with numbers, flooding the desert with troops and horses. The terrain takes a heavier toll on the Tianese troops than the Ulaks. Most casualties are due to the heat and exhaustion.
The kingdom of Ryakhi sends in its own forces in cooperation with Tian, but only once most of the Ulak resistance is already scattered.
Ryakhi: -1 Pikemen, -1 Horsemen, -1 Horse Archers, -1 Camelmen
Tian: -1 Pikemen, -2 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Horse Archers, -1 Armoured Horsemen, -1 War Elephant
Tian then gathers reinforcements from the defeated Desert Ulaks themselves. They are used to always following the strongest leader, whoever that may be. Many agree to fight for the Tianese generals in their next campaign...
Tian: +4 Horse Archers
Tian then launches a quick surprise attack against the south of the Azar Khanate. The exhausted Azar can fight no more - already they are broken by Videssos, and most resistance collapses. As the years pass, the last few bands of loyal Azar warriors and bandits are hunted down by the forces of Videssos and Tian.
Tian: -1 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Horse Archer
*Azar Khanate is no more
As with the Desert Ulak tribes, Tian tries to force captured Azar warriors to fight for the Tianese army. But many of the proud and bitter Azar warriors prefer death. Some agree to start with, but mutiny as soon as they get a chance. Only a few are successfully recruited.
Tian: +2 Horse Archers, +1 Horsemen
It was rumoured that some of the Azar nobles escaped to the Tarkan Khanate, and found welcome there.
Rise of Garuda
The city state of Bengvari is blessed with skilled leaders, and manages to overpower several of the neighbouring Rayamese states. The new power of Garuda emerges, with a confident and aggressive military at its disposal. The new state takes a more hostile stance towards Ormash and Kimash, and seeks to prevent their expansion northwards.
Ormash
Ormash overpowers the minor state of Ingash with a careful and concentrated attack. Ormash moves no further into the ‘Gyu States’. But tensions still run high between Ormash and the Taej Empire, and several border skirmishes are fought near Ingash.
Meanwhile, Ormash keeps a wary eye on its northern and eastern neighbours. Forts are put up to guard the eastern border especially.
Ormash: -1 Imperial Guard, -2 Pikemen, -1 Armoured Horsemen
The Orion Empire
A new dynamic leadership takes power in the Orian Empire. The empire is renamed ‘Orion Empire’, with the capitol moved to the newly-renamed city of Oro.
While there are new initiatives in mining, irrigation and farming, Orion’s leaders also send military expeditions in several directions against neighbouring minor powers. Most meet with success, despite the small number of troops sent - Orion’s troops have superior training, discipline and motivation. There are also rumours that simple gunpowder weapons are used in these campaigns, so-called ‘fire lances’, wooden tubes which spit sparks and fire to frighten the enemy. Only the tough fighters of Atu Gyta in the south are able to resist the Orion expeditions.
Orion Empire: -1 Pikemen, -2 Ascended Warriors, -1 Horsemen, -1 Armoured Horsemen
Ismatan is captured by the Orions, causing considerable tension with the Taej Empire, and several border skirmishes occur – this time quite serious. But full scale war is not desired by either side, and fighting soon ceases.
Orion Empire: -1 Ascended Warriors, -1 Horsemen
Taej Empire: -2 Horsemen
It is rumoured that the remaining ‘Gyu’ states are seeking the protection of the Taej Empire…
Meanwhile, in the north, Orion cavalry raid into the Karthian Khanate, spreading panic. The Karthians quickly call on their Tarkan overlords for help. Orion’s raiders are forced to withdraw as large groups of Tarkan cavalry suddenly enter the area.
Karthian Khanate: -2 Spearmen, -1 Horse Archer
Tarkan Khanate: -1 Horse Archer
Orion Empire: -1 Horsemen
Adventures in New Panga
Panga increases its involvement with New Panga. New waves of Pangan explores arrive from asia, and together with New Pangan colonists, they undertake expeditions deeper into the continent. Navvian guard fight many small skirmishes against vicious native tribes. More tobacco-growing areas are secured (this luxury has a growing market in asia). Diplomatic contacts and trade are also established with the native Chimuko civilisation.
New Panga: -1 Pikemen
Panga: -1 Navvian Guard
Kenbu
The idea of the ‘islander confederation’ is revived. The minor powers of Tongusu, Oduntu and Janbu all become tributaries of Kenbu, in return for military and trade assistance. There are a few minor clashes with Sarukian colonists near Tongusu, but no significant losses.
Saruk
While an uneasy peace continues in northern Africa between Umidia and Elaphos, there is a reckoning between Saruk and the rival Almhadar dynasty. Saruk mobilises its soldiers and its allies under the banner of true Theosim, and marches for the unification of the scared heartlands of Saruk.
The massed forces of Saruk attack northwards along the Cavar river, towards the holy city of Xhose and the Wandering Grounds of Murabi, sacred ground for all followers of Theosim. But the Almhadar king chooses not to fight for the area. He has fewer forces than Saruk, and needs time to recruit more tribal warriors from central africa. Saruk’s mass formations of war elephants scatter any resistance that is left behind.
Meanwhile the Sulchan League, in cooperation with their Sarukian liege-lords, raids and blockades the Almhadar coastal lands.
The Aj-Savar commit forces to raid Almhadar’s north western borders, but are unable to commit fully. As Agre’s vassal state of Tarnas is ripped apart by rogue forces from the Knights of Mycenae (more on that later), most of the vassal Aj-Savar are drawn into fighting for the city of Alnahar.
Over the following years, Sarukian forces make a slow, but steady and well-organised advance into the Almhadar heartlands. Saruk’s control over Xhose and the surrounding area is well established. But Almhadar still hasn’t committed to a decisive battle, and its forces continue to grow larger.
Aj-Savar: -2 Kaji, -2 Aj-Savar Cavalry
Sulchan League: -1 Galley
Saruk: -2 Kaji, -1 Aj-Savar Cavalry, -1 Sarukian War Elephant
Almhadar: -3 Kaji, -4 Mercenary Impi, -1 Sarukian War Elephant, -1 Horsemen
Elsewhere, Sarukian and Yutanese forces wage an unofficial war for the island now known as Kousha. The independent territory on the island is divided up between both sides. Yutan expeditions are given some backing by the Taej Empire, but still cannot dislodge the fanatical Sarukian colonists. And, despite harsh repression by Taej and Yutan, the faith of Theosim continues to spread across the whole island of Kousha.
Saruk: -2 Kaji
Yutan: -1 Pikemen, -1 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Horse Archer
Thulean expansion
Juhtland renews its advance into the lands of Koltyre, vassal of the Thulean league, apparently with assurances that the Thuleans would not respond. But this is a trap, as the Thuleans quickly mobilise their forces for a great war against the Juht. Some Juhtish nobles are bribed to rebel, in particular the lords of farsund, near Malachurn.
A massive Thulean fleet dominates the northern seas, brushing aside all attacks by the Juht. But it cant stop scattered raids by small numbers of Juht ships against Koltyre and Malachurn.
The Thuleans and their allies make gains against Juhtland, taking Lenyahd and Roth in particular, but their campaigns on the Juht mainland are fiercely resisted. The Ultimist Thuleans gain many ‘saints’ from the fighting here. The Juht lose control of their coasts for some years, but bring in mercenaries from Norgar and northern Germanica. The Juht are ultimately able to repulse Thulean invasions, though at quite a heavy cost to themselves.
Juhtland: -6 Axemen, -7 Spearmen, -2 Horsemen, -3 Mercenary Axemen, -6 Galleys
Thulean League: -3 Pictish Guard, -2 Kornden Militia, -2 Pikemen, -4 Coastal Levies, -1 Horsemen, -1 Ys Sloop, -1 Galley
Koltye: -2 Kornden Militia, -1 Horsemen
Malachurn: -1 Pictish Guard, -1 Kornden Militia, -2 Coastal Levies
Meanwhile, the last Kalib tribes are defeated near the east-ocean island colony of Arzamber. Much cruelty and brutality is shown by the Thuleans. As a result, the Kalibs fight fanatically, and take a heavier toll on the Thuleans. Scattered pockets of hostile natives still remain in the remote parts of these islands.
Thulean League: -1 Kornden Militia, -1 Pikemen, -1 Coastal Levies
The struggles of the Holy Rovien Empire
The lands of the Holy Saxon-Anguile Empire are thrown into chaos during this time. It is a confused jumble of interlinked wars.
It begins with Rovien’s attempt to take power by force, under the ambitious King Ferdideed. Rovien’s armies invade the lands of Dauphien from several directions, while pro-Rovien riots break out in Dauphine’s major cities.
Rovien is able to take control of the imperial capitol at Sharlerde, with the backing of pro-Rovien sympathisers in the city. Emperor Vivusaire V escapes to Croessard. Versous and other cities also fall within months. Rovien also gains superiority at sea and captures the island of Aragan. People begin to talk of a new Rovien Empire.
But, Rovien’s elite Chevalier cavalry is kept concentrated in one army, and is separated from the mainly-infantry forces in other armies. Rovien’s siege of Anguilairme is eventually broken by a concentration of Dauphien’s cavalry and infantry against Rovien’s exposed Campagnard infantry - Rovien suffers heavy casualties. Although Rovien had already achieved success elsewhere, confidence of the people is now at a low. Rovien does much to recover from this by encouraging the Aeonist faith, using Aeonism to motivate and unite the people, and promoting itself as the true protector of Aeonism. The war to unite the empire by force now becomes a holy struggle…
All the while, Dauphien is receiving mixed support from the rest of its ‘Empire’ as it struggles to hold off further attacks. Dauphien is also struggling to restore order in its remaining cities, as riots continue. The Republic of Bretoen sends some troops to help Vivusaire V, but also tries to appease Rovien at the same time. Geldra, Almothien and Catalia stay completely neutral.
Meanwhile, inspired by Vivusaire V’s victory at Anguilairme, and worried about growing power of Rovien, the state of Burghiem declares its support for Vivusaire V. Burgheim attacks Rovien in the lands around Brouforlard. And then, Saxony reveals its true plans. Saxony double-crosses Rovien, and launches an invasion of Rovien’s territory around Lenierde.
Rovien cannot spare enough troops to meet all these enemies. Luckily for Rovien, the powerful kingdom of Germanica now enters the fray…
Under the pretext of reuniting the Germanic peoples, a large Germanican army invades the territory of Saxony, quickly taking the historic city of Dresden and laying siege to Saxenhaus. Almothien, which has stayed neutral so far, is also invaded by Germanican forces. King Albrecht III of Germanica then declares the new Empire of Germanica.
But the Almothiens, inspired by the ancient Almoth warrior spirit, manage to defeat much larger Germanican forces on several occasions, and save their small territory, at least for a while.
The wars drag on for years, and then decades. Individual lords and generals are continually swapping sides and betraying each other, while rioting and disorder become the norm for many cities. Most of the states within the ‘empire’ become quite unstable.
Then King Gusar II of Saxony is killed in battle against Germanica, without a strong heir to replace him. Saxony’s territory is divided up by the other powers. This starts to bring things to a conclusion. Rovien now remains at war with Dauphien and Burgheim, and Almothien remains at war with Germanica. The others are still officially neutral, but tend to support Rovien.
Finally, Geldra is beginning to break away from the empire, as a royal marriage is agreed with the Thulean League. Catalia is also threatening to break away, as it makes overtures to Umidia…
Rovien: -6 Pikemen, -5 Chevaliers, -7 Campagnards, -2 Galleys
Dauphien: -7 Pikemen, -5 Chevaliers, -8 Campagnards, -4 Galleys
Bretoen: -1 Campagnard, -1 Chevalier
Burgheim: -2 Campagnards, -2 Axemen, -3 Pikemen, -2 Chevaliers
Almothien: -1 Campagnard, -1 Axemen, -2 Pikemen, -1 Horsemen
Germanica: -5 Axemen, -5 Pikemen, -4 Horsemen, -3 Armoured Horsemen
*Saxony is no more
Knights of Mycenae invade Tusca
Demetrios, Grand Master of the Knights of Mycenae, rallies his forces for a great campaign against the noble independent peoples of Tusca - despite rumours of a coming war between Antalyak and Agre. The Knights have a crushing superiority over Tusca in land and sea power, but this is not enough for the Mycenean leaders. The campaign is also to be a testing ground for new ideas. In addition to simple gunpowder rockets, the Myceneans experiment with manned gliders for reconnaissance. Letrion, the legendary inventor, pioneered their use several centuries ago. But then, as now, most attempts end in accidents and some fatalities. The Myceneans have more luck with manned kites, tethered to the ground, but these are of limited use.
Although small in number, the Tuscan soldiers are well-armed and equipped. The Knights have some tough battles to get ashore, but their superior numbers eventually overwhelm the defence, and they are soon well established in southern Tusca.
Then, two unfortunate things happen... First, the Cyrasian Empire sends its forces into northern Tusca, offering the Tuscans semi-independence as a vassal, if they aid in throwing out the Myceneans. And so, the three descendants of old Mycenae do battle with each other. All three sides have similar cultures, weapons, and tactics.
Together with Tuscan rebels, the Cyrasians soon have superior numbers. But the Mycenean general Kaliseph (born of a mixed Umidian and Agrinese family) achieves some stunning victories for Mycenae, and quickly gains high popularity and status.
Then, news arrives of Antal’s rebellion against the Agrinese Empire, and of large Antalese armies marching into the lands of the Bazilevs. Now Kalispeh clashes with Demetrios - the Knights of Mycenae have sworn to protect Agre first and foremost! Demetrios does his best to steer the Knights on a new course towards their own destiny. But acting against Demetrios’s direct orders, Kaliseph leaves Tusca altogether, and much of the Knights’s army and navy follow him...
Knights of Mycenae: -6 Eagle Pikemen, -6 Armoured Swordsmen, -3 Repeating Crossbowmen, -2 Raiders, -8 Mycenean Knights, -8 Dromon
With the sudden desertion of his best forces, Demetrios struggles to hold on to Tusca against new attacks by the Cyrasians. The struggle lasts for many years while Kalispeh aids the Agrinese Empire. Eventually, most of Tusca is made a vassal of the Cyrasians, and the Knights gain only a little territory after so much bloodshed. They do however keep control of the island of Pisae.
Knights of Mycenae: -3 Eagle Pikemen, -5 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Repeating Crossbowmen, -3 Raiders, -2 Mycenean Knights, -2 Dromon
Tusca: -6 Eagle Pikemen, -5 Armoured Swordsmen, -4 Armoured Horsemen, -3 Galleys, -3 Dromon
Cyrasian Empire: -4 Eagle Pikemen, -7 Pikemen, -5 Armoured Swordsmen, -2 Repeating Crossbowmen, -2 War Wagons, -3 Raiders, -3 Armoured Horsemen
*Tusca is now a vassal of Cyrasian Empire
Antal, the Knights of Kaliseph, and the new Empires
The semi-stability achieved by Agre and its military vassals does not last long. After becoming fully established as a strong power in its own right, Antal wastes no time in preparing for a war to overthrow the Agrinese Empire. A huge army is assembled, led by the ambitious Karlyk, ‘Autonomarch’ of the Kristinyan family. Efforts to promote clan unity are also very successful - everyone is keen to see Antal and the Kristinyan clans take their ‘rightful place’.
Antal’s forces easily exceed 90,000 strong as they begin to advance into the domains of the new Bazilevs Aleksevs V, who is only 14 years old at the outbreak of war. Naturally, appeals are made to the vassal states for assistance, but the vassals make excuses or flatly refuse to help. Antal’s leaders have already been waging a successful campaign to undermine Agre’s authority, and to sway the vassals and the Agrinese aristocracy over to their side. The Kristinyds also produce several 'valid' claims to the throne of Agre. Overall, the odds seem stacked in Antal’s favour.
But, of course, the Agrinese Empire is not a pushover. The Agrinese still have centuries of tradition to inspire them. The city of Agre itself still has an aura of power and glory. Young Aleksevs V is surrounded by capable advisors, who quickly organise a large army of their own, to counter the Antalese.
The main Antalese army marches straight from salonyka towards Agre, led by Karlyk himself. The loyalists make efforts to block the approaches to the city, while Bazilev’s reinforcements are gathered. The Antalese bulldoze their way through. Aleksevs V retreats to Konstantynai, and Agre is soon under siege. Riots break out in the city, thousands are killed as pro-Antal/pro-Kristinyd factions make several attempts to take control. But loyalist troops suppress the riots with severity, and manage to keep hold of the city’s defences.
While Agre is under siege, the Antalese send forces further forward, to prevent the elements of the Bazilev’s forces from gathering together. There isn’t a decisive battle – smaller forces from each side chase each other around in a long war of manoeuvre, with roughly equal losses on each side. Still, the situation doesn’t suit the Agrinese. As the heartlands of the Agrinese Empire are overrun with Antalese forces, many of the smaller cities begin to defect.
At the same time, the Agrinese are able to assemble a large army in the east, and move with surprising speed towards Altyn Sarai, where they collide with smaller Antalese forces. The Antalese attack by land and by boat, across the great Osyla lake. The combined attacks take a heavy toll on the loyal Agrinese forces, but Altyn Sarai remains in the Bazilev’s hands after several tough battles. It is the only place where the loyalists have any real success. Unfortunately, some of Agre’s best military leaders are killed in these battles.
Meanwhile, an Antalese advance towards the city of Kafa in the north meets with no real resistance. The city surrenders quickly, and all of the north comes under Antalese control.
The actual capture of the city of Agre itself is disappointingly un-dramatic. Karlyk’s forces tighten their grip on the city and its surroundings, with no chance of being repulsed. Negotiations begin for the city’s surrender. Eventually, the gates of Agre are opened to Karlyk without a fight. No longer shall the glorious city be a capitol of any nation.
A couple of years into the war, and Antal is enjoying success overall, but the Agrinese forces remain strong in certain areas. Bazilevs Aleksevs V is growing older and wiser by the day, and beginning to clash with some of his advisors.
The course of events now takes a different turn. The rogue Knights led by general Kaliseph quickly storm through the north of Tarnas, looting and forcibly conscripting many people into their army along the way, leaving the vassal state thoroughly destabilised. Little mercy is shown for those that refuse to aid the Bazilevs. After setting up a headquarters in Herakleia, where they are met by more pro-Agrinese loyalists from Mycenae and Argos (and a small number of mercenaries from the mediterranean, paid for by Herakleia’s gold), Kaliseph’s combined force then sets out to do battle with the traitors of Antal. The Antalese are still superior in number overall, but now somewhat overstretched and exhausted.
Agrinese Empire: +6 Eagle Pikemen, +6 Armoured Swordsmen, +3 Repeating Crossbowmen, +2 Raiders, +8 Mycenean Knights, +4 Mercenary Campagnards, +5 Mercenary Axemen, +8 Dromon
*Tarnas is no more
A pitched battle is finally fought at Konstantynai (which was by now starving, and close to falling), where the Knights and the Agrinese loyalists manage to gain a slight edge in numbers. Despite the superior leadership of Karlyk and his generals, and the determination of their soldiers, it is a black day for Antal and the Kristinyd family. A series of mistakes and misunderstandings steal away what probably would have been a great victory, and instead lead to a crushing defeat by Kaliseph and his loyalist forces. Antal is then forced on the defensive for some months, its campaign thrown into disarray, and the sieges of the last Agrinese cities have to be abandoned.
Yet in some ways, the battle is also a defeat for the Agrinese loyalists. After the battle, and empowered by victory, Kaliseph manages to force out most of Aleksevs V’s advisors, who he blames for letting the Antalese progress so far. Kaliseph befriends Aleksevs and gains his trust, and then positions himself as the real power behind the throne. From then on, the remains of the Agrinese Empire and the lands held by Kaliseph are gradually combined into one. Upset by the influence of Kaliseph and his Knights, and increasingly distanced from any real power, many more of the traditional Agrinese military and aristocracy turn to Antal and the Kristinyds – who are reassuringly merciful to all who surrender willingly.
Several long years pass as Antal continues to advance, gradually wearing down the last loyalist strongholds. Unlike the Knights of Kaliseph, Antal has the resources and manpower to sustain a large army and replace its losses. Yet Karlyk is denied another pitched battle and a chance to avenge his defeat at Konstantynai. He has to content himself with many smaller victories. Nonetheless, the scale of bloodshed begins to reach that of the famous ‘hundred years war’.
Meanwhile, Antal is busy establishing a new order in the old Agrinese heartlands. It isn’t long before the new ‘Antalese Empire’ is declared. The vassal states of Artan and Turukan seem willing to declare their allegiance to the Antalyak and the Kristinyds, while the exact intentions of Byzar are still unclear.
Over the next few years, scattered fighting continues against Kaliseph and Aleksev V in the east. The new capitol of the ‘Agrinese’ empire is established at Herakleia. The city of Argos is besieged, while the city of Mycenae hands itself back to the loyalist Knights of Mycenae (who were still struggling to hold southern Tusca) in order to avoid a similar fate. The islands around Rhodes do the same. Thus, the Knights of Mycenae recovered most of their original lands.
Officially, the Knights of Mycenae are still vassals of Agre, but Grand Master Demetrios uses the war and Kaliseph’s mutiny as excuses to break all ties of vassalage.
The Agrinese Empire still struggles on, but it is very different to what it was 25 years ago, and even less similar to the glorious empire of the past centuries. It is based around Herakleia, northern Tarnas and Judea, funded by trade through Herakleia. The legendary general Kaliseph is getting old, and Bazilevs Aleksevs V may be unable to keep things going on his own.
Agrinese Empire: -15 Agrinese Pikemen, -3 Eagle Pikemen, -12 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Repeating Crossbowman, -5 Altyn Guard, -5 Horse Archers, -8 Baghatur, -4 Ildyrn Cavalry, -4 Mycenean Knights, -2 Mercenary Campagnards, -2 Mercenary Axemen, -5 War Elephant, -2 Camelmen, -2 Screaming Arrow
Antalese Empire: -9 Agrinese Pikemen, -7 Armoured Swordsmen, -4 Altyn Guard, -5 Horse Archers, -7 Baghatur, -5 Ildyrn Cavalry, -1 Screaming Arrow
*Knights of Mycenae, Byzar, Artan and Turukan are no longer a vassals of the Agrinese Empire
NPC diplo at the end for andis-1, Luckymoose, Disenfrancised, Das, alex994, The Farow, Lord_Iggy and Warman17
The Orian Empire has been taken over by a mystery player…
Dead nations = Azar Khanate, Tarnas
New nation = Garuda
IC:
250 AD – 275 AD
Tensions and ambitions that had been bottled up for centuries are finally released.
From the eastern coasts of Europe, to the north west frontiers of asia, massive armies on the move and whole empires are thrown into chaos.
---
War:
Videssian resurgence and rebellion
After years of inactivity, the borders of Videssos begin to expand again. Videssos invades the Azar Khanate with a large army, including many new light horsemen to tackle the Azar’s cavalry tactics.
The Azar warriors fight back bravely, but are outmatched in both quality and quantity. Fighting on their home terrain allows the Azar to inflict some damaging ambushes on the Videssian forces, but its never enough. Videssos pushes steadily southwards as the Azar begin to collapse into separate warbands. The important trading city of Ranpor, with its mostly Rayamese and Phos-worshiping population, makes no attempt to resist the Videssian troops, and opens its gates to them.
Videssos: -1 Haloga Imperial Guard, -1 Vaspurakan Infantry, -2 Pikemen, -1 Namdaleni Cavalry, -2 Horse Archers
Azar Khanate: -5 Spearmen, -6 Horse Archers, -6 Horsemen
Meanwhile, the Patriarch of Videssos calls for an end to the tolerance of non-Phosist faiths. The Videssian army is further encouraged to wage a holy war and crush the heathen leadership of Azar. But at the same time, a rebellion takes place in the north east borderlands. The rebels call for the tolerance of tribal Nakuri and Tungusi beliefs. Some ambitious garrison leaders, who are willing to turn against central authority and take lands for themselves, stir up more trouble. The ranks of the rebel forces soon include some of the local garrison troops, along with all kinds of bandits and native tribal warriors. Even some forces from Ryzovy join the rebels, hoping to remove Videssos’s hold over their country.
With most of Videssos’s troops tied down in Azar lands for several years, it is impossible to stamp out the rebellion. It spreads further, until the important city of Kybristra also falls…
Videssos: -1 Vaspurakan Infantry, -2 Pikemen
Ryzovy: -4 Tribal Swordsmen, -2 Pikemen, -1 Horsemen
Tian’s northern expansion
In 250 AD, the nation of Tian is a hive of activity. All kinds of reforms are being enacted, specifically in education, government, and the military. The military we shall focus on for now…
A new law is enacted, forcing all able-bodied men to train with the army for two years, to prepare them for future use as conscripts. While in service, they are also indoctrinated with the ideals of Tian and a sense loyalty to the state. This puts a heavy strain on Tian’s manpower, continually taking many people away from the fields, mines, and workshops. But it does improve the training level and loyalty of those who are eventually recruited into the army.
With massive amounts of resources, organisation, and motivation, a large new army is assembled. Tian prepares for war, to reclaim its birthright and restore former glories.
First, the new army is sent north against the ‘Desert Ulaks’. These are tough fighters, and know how to use the desert to their advantage. Tian overwhelms them with numbers, flooding the desert with troops and horses. The terrain takes a heavier toll on the Tianese troops than the Ulaks. Most casualties are due to the heat and exhaustion.
The kingdom of Ryakhi sends in its own forces in cooperation with Tian, but only once most of the Ulak resistance is already scattered.
Ryakhi: -1 Pikemen, -1 Horsemen, -1 Horse Archers, -1 Camelmen
Tian: -1 Pikemen, -2 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Horse Archers, -1 Armoured Horsemen, -1 War Elephant
Tian then gathers reinforcements from the defeated Desert Ulaks themselves. They are used to always following the strongest leader, whoever that may be. Many agree to fight for the Tianese generals in their next campaign...
Tian: +4 Horse Archers
Tian then launches a quick surprise attack against the south of the Azar Khanate. The exhausted Azar can fight no more - already they are broken by Videssos, and most resistance collapses. As the years pass, the last few bands of loyal Azar warriors and bandits are hunted down by the forces of Videssos and Tian.
Tian: -1 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Horse Archer
*Azar Khanate is no more
As with the Desert Ulak tribes, Tian tries to force captured Azar warriors to fight for the Tianese army. But many of the proud and bitter Azar warriors prefer death. Some agree to start with, but mutiny as soon as they get a chance. Only a few are successfully recruited.
Tian: +2 Horse Archers, +1 Horsemen
It was rumoured that some of the Azar nobles escaped to the Tarkan Khanate, and found welcome there.
Rise of Garuda
The city state of Bengvari is blessed with skilled leaders, and manages to overpower several of the neighbouring Rayamese states. The new power of Garuda emerges, with a confident and aggressive military at its disposal. The new state takes a more hostile stance towards Ormash and Kimash, and seeks to prevent their expansion northwards.
Ormash
Ormash overpowers the minor state of Ingash with a careful and concentrated attack. Ormash moves no further into the ‘Gyu States’. But tensions still run high between Ormash and the Taej Empire, and several border skirmishes are fought near Ingash.
Meanwhile, Ormash keeps a wary eye on its northern and eastern neighbours. Forts are put up to guard the eastern border especially.
Ormash: -1 Imperial Guard, -2 Pikemen, -1 Armoured Horsemen
The Orion Empire
A new dynamic leadership takes power in the Orian Empire. The empire is renamed ‘Orion Empire’, with the capitol moved to the newly-renamed city of Oro.
While there are new initiatives in mining, irrigation and farming, Orion’s leaders also send military expeditions in several directions against neighbouring minor powers. Most meet with success, despite the small number of troops sent - Orion’s troops have superior training, discipline and motivation. There are also rumours that simple gunpowder weapons are used in these campaigns, so-called ‘fire lances’, wooden tubes which spit sparks and fire to frighten the enemy. Only the tough fighters of Atu Gyta in the south are able to resist the Orion expeditions.
Orion Empire: -1 Pikemen, -2 Ascended Warriors, -1 Horsemen, -1 Armoured Horsemen
Ismatan is captured by the Orions, causing considerable tension with the Taej Empire, and several border skirmishes occur – this time quite serious. But full scale war is not desired by either side, and fighting soon ceases.
Orion Empire: -1 Ascended Warriors, -1 Horsemen
Taej Empire: -2 Horsemen
It is rumoured that the remaining ‘Gyu’ states are seeking the protection of the Taej Empire…
Meanwhile, in the north, Orion cavalry raid into the Karthian Khanate, spreading panic. The Karthians quickly call on their Tarkan overlords for help. Orion’s raiders are forced to withdraw as large groups of Tarkan cavalry suddenly enter the area.
Karthian Khanate: -2 Spearmen, -1 Horse Archer
Tarkan Khanate: -1 Horse Archer
Orion Empire: -1 Horsemen
Adventures in New Panga
Panga increases its involvement with New Panga. New waves of Pangan explores arrive from asia, and together with New Pangan colonists, they undertake expeditions deeper into the continent. Navvian guard fight many small skirmishes against vicious native tribes. More tobacco-growing areas are secured (this luxury has a growing market in asia). Diplomatic contacts and trade are also established with the native Chimuko civilisation.
New Panga: -1 Pikemen
Panga: -1 Navvian Guard
Kenbu
The idea of the ‘islander confederation’ is revived. The minor powers of Tongusu, Oduntu and Janbu all become tributaries of Kenbu, in return for military and trade assistance. There are a few minor clashes with Sarukian colonists near Tongusu, but no significant losses.
Saruk
While an uneasy peace continues in northern Africa between Umidia and Elaphos, there is a reckoning between Saruk and the rival Almhadar dynasty. Saruk mobilises its soldiers and its allies under the banner of true Theosim, and marches for the unification of the scared heartlands of Saruk.
The massed forces of Saruk attack northwards along the Cavar river, towards the holy city of Xhose and the Wandering Grounds of Murabi, sacred ground for all followers of Theosim. But the Almhadar king chooses not to fight for the area. He has fewer forces than Saruk, and needs time to recruit more tribal warriors from central africa. Saruk’s mass formations of war elephants scatter any resistance that is left behind.
Meanwhile the Sulchan League, in cooperation with their Sarukian liege-lords, raids and blockades the Almhadar coastal lands.
The Aj-Savar commit forces to raid Almhadar’s north western borders, but are unable to commit fully. As Agre’s vassal state of Tarnas is ripped apart by rogue forces from the Knights of Mycenae (more on that later), most of the vassal Aj-Savar are drawn into fighting for the city of Alnahar.
Over the following years, Sarukian forces make a slow, but steady and well-organised advance into the Almhadar heartlands. Saruk’s control over Xhose and the surrounding area is well established. But Almhadar still hasn’t committed to a decisive battle, and its forces continue to grow larger.
Aj-Savar: -2 Kaji, -2 Aj-Savar Cavalry
Sulchan League: -1 Galley
Saruk: -2 Kaji, -1 Aj-Savar Cavalry, -1 Sarukian War Elephant
Almhadar: -3 Kaji, -4 Mercenary Impi, -1 Sarukian War Elephant, -1 Horsemen
Elsewhere, Sarukian and Yutanese forces wage an unofficial war for the island now known as Kousha. The independent territory on the island is divided up between both sides. Yutan expeditions are given some backing by the Taej Empire, but still cannot dislodge the fanatical Sarukian colonists. And, despite harsh repression by Taej and Yutan, the faith of Theosim continues to spread across the whole island of Kousha.
Saruk: -2 Kaji
Yutan: -1 Pikemen, -1 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Horse Archer
Thulean expansion
Juhtland renews its advance into the lands of Koltyre, vassal of the Thulean league, apparently with assurances that the Thuleans would not respond. But this is a trap, as the Thuleans quickly mobilise their forces for a great war against the Juht. Some Juhtish nobles are bribed to rebel, in particular the lords of farsund, near Malachurn.
A massive Thulean fleet dominates the northern seas, brushing aside all attacks by the Juht. But it cant stop scattered raids by small numbers of Juht ships against Koltyre and Malachurn.
The Thuleans and their allies make gains against Juhtland, taking Lenyahd and Roth in particular, but their campaigns on the Juht mainland are fiercely resisted. The Ultimist Thuleans gain many ‘saints’ from the fighting here. The Juht lose control of their coasts for some years, but bring in mercenaries from Norgar and northern Germanica. The Juht are ultimately able to repulse Thulean invasions, though at quite a heavy cost to themselves.
Juhtland: -6 Axemen, -7 Spearmen, -2 Horsemen, -3 Mercenary Axemen, -6 Galleys
Thulean League: -3 Pictish Guard, -2 Kornden Militia, -2 Pikemen, -4 Coastal Levies, -1 Horsemen, -1 Ys Sloop, -1 Galley
Koltye: -2 Kornden Militia, -1 Horsemen
Malachurn: -1 Pictish Guard, -1 Kornden Militia, -2 Coastal Levies
Meanwhile, the last Kalib tribes are defeated near the east-ocean island colony of Arzamber. Much cruelty and brutality is shown by the Thuleans. As a result, the Kalibs fight fanatically, and take a heavier toll on the Thuleans. Scattered pockets of hostile natives still remain in the remote parts of these islands.
Thulean League: -1 Kornden Militia, -1 Pikemen, -1 Coastal Levies
The struggles of the Holy Rovien Empire
The lands of the Holy Saxon-Anguile Empire are thrown into chaos during this time. It is a confused jumble of interlinked wars.
It begins with Rovien’s attempt to take power by force, under the ambitious King Ferdideed. Rovien’s armies invade the lands of Dauphien from several directions, while pro-Rovien riots break out in Dauphine’s major cities.
Rovien is able to take control of the imperial capitol at Sharlerde, with the backing of pro-Rovien sympathisers in the city. Emperor Vivusaire V escapes to Croessard. Versous and other cities also fall within months. Rovien also gains superiority at sea and captures the island of Aragan. People begin to talk of a new Rovien Empire.
But, Rovien’s elite Chevalier cavalry is kept concentrated in one army, and is separated from the mainly-infantry forces in other armies. Rovien’s siege of Anguilairme is eventually broken by a concentration of Dauphien’s cavalry and infantry against Rovien’s exposed Campagnard infantry - Rovien suffers heavy casualties. Although Rovien had already achieved success elsewhere, confidence of the people is now at a low. Rovien does much to recover from this by encouraging the Aeonist faith, using Aeonism to motivate and unite the people, and promoting itself as the true protector of Aeonism. The war to unite the empire by force now becomes a holy struggle…
All the while, Dauphien is receiving mixed support from the rest of its ‘Empire’ as it struggles to hold off further attacks. Dauphien is also struggling to restore order in its remaining cities, as riots continue. The Republic of Bretoen sends some troops to help Vivusaire V, but also tries to appease Rovien at the same time. Geldra, Almothien and Catalia stay completely neutral.
Meanwhile, inspired by Vivusaire V’s victory at Anguilairme, and worried about growing power of Rovien, the state of Burghiem declares its support for Vivusaire V. Burgheim attacks Rovien in the lands around Brouforlard. And then, Saxony reveals its true plans. Saxony double-crosses Rovien, and launches an invasion of Rovien’s territory around Lenierde.
Rovien cannot spare enough troops to meet all these enemies. Luckily for Rovien, the powerful kingdom of Germanica now enters the fray…
Under the pretext of reuniting the Germanic peoples, a large Germanican army invades the territory of Saxony, quickly taking the historic city of Dresden and laying siege to Saxenhaus. Almothien, which has stayed neutral so far, is also invaded by Germanican forces. King Albrecht III of Germanica then declares the new Empire of Germanica.
But the Almothiens, inspired by the ancient Almoth warrior spirit, manage to defeat much larger Germanican forces on several occasions, and save their small territory, at least for a while.
The wars drag on for years, and then decades. Individual lords and generals are continually swapping sides and betraying each other, while rioting and disorder become the norm for many cities. Most of the states within the ‘empire’ become quite unstable.
Then King Gusar II of Saxony is killed in battle against Germanica, without a strong heir to replace him. Saxony’s territory is divided up by the other powers. This starts to bring things to a conclusion. Rovien now remains at war with Dauphien and Burgheim, and Almothien remains at war with Germanica. The others are still officially neutral, but tend to support Rovien.
Finally, Geldra is beginning to break away from the empire, as a royal marriage is agreed with the Thulean League. Catalia is also threatening to break away, as it makes overtures to Umidia…
Rovien: -6 Pikemen, -5 Chevaliers, -7 Campagnards, -2 Galleys
Dauphien: -7 Pikemen, -5 Chevaliers, -8 Campagnards, -4 Galleys
Bretoen: -1 Campagnard, -1 Chevalier
Burgheim: -2 Campagnards, -2 Axemen, -3 Pikemen, -2 Chevaliers
Almothien: -1 Campagnard, -1 Axemen, -2 Pikemen, -1 Horsemen
Germanica: -5 Axemen, -5 Pikemen, -4 Horsemen, -3 Armoured Horsemen
*Saxony is no more
Knights of Mycenae invade Tusca
Demetrios, Grand Master of the Knights of Mycenae, rallies his forces for a great campaign against the noble independent peoples of Tusca - despite rumours of a coming war between Antalyak and Agre. The Knights have a crushing superiority over Tusca in land and sea power, but this is not enough for the Mycenean leaders. The campaign is also to be a testing ground for new ideas. In addition to simple gunpowder rockets, the Myceneans experiment with manned gliders for reconnaissance. Letrion, the legendary inventor, pioneered their use several centuries ago. But then, as now, most attempts end in accidents and some fatalities. The Myceneans have more luck with manned kites, tethered to the ground, but these are of limited use.
Although small in number, the Tuscan soldiers are well-armed and equipped. The Knights have some tough battles to get ashore, but their superior numbers eventually overwhelm the defence, and they are soon well established in southern Tusca.
Then, two unfortunate things happen... First, the Cyrasian Empire sends its forces into northern Tusca, offering the Tuscans semi-independence as a vassal, if they aid in throwing out the Myceneans. And so, the three descendants of old Mycenae do battle with each other. All three sides have similar cultures, weapons, and tactics.
Together with Tuscan rebels, the Cyrasians soon have superior numbers. But the Mycenean general Kaliseph (born of a mixed Umidian and Agrinese family) achieves some stunning victories for Mycenae, and quickly gains high popularity and status.
Then, news arrives of Antal’s rebellion against the Agrinese Empire, and of large Antalese armies marching into the lands of the Bazilevs. Now Kalispeh clashes with Demetrios - the Knights of Mycenae have sworn to protect Agre first and foremost! Demetrios does his best to steer the Knights on a new course towards their own destiny. But acting against Demetrios’s direct orders, Kaliseph leaves Tusca altogether, and much of the Knights’s army and navy follow him...
Knights of Mycenae: -6 Eagle Pikemen, -6 Armoured Swordsmen, -3 Repeating Crossbowmen, -2 Raiders, -8 Mycenean Knights, -8 Dromon
With the sudden desertion of his best forces, Demetrios struggles to hold on to Tusca against new attacks by the Cyrasians. The struggle lasts for many years while Kalispeh aids the Agrinese Empire. Eventually, most of Tusca is made a vassal of the Cyrasians, and the Knights gain only a little territory after so much bloodshed. They do however keep control of the island of Pisae.
Knights of Mycenae: -3 Eagle Pikemen, -5 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Repeating Crossbowmen, -3 Raiders, -2 Mycenean Knights, -2 Dromon
Tusca: -6 Eagle Pikemen, -5 Armoured Swordsmen, -4 Armoured Horsemen, -3 Galleys, -3 Dromon
Cyrasian Empire: -4 Eagle Pikemen, -7 Pikemen, -5 Armoured Swordsmen, -2 Repeating Crossbowmen, -2 War Wagons, -3 Raiders, -3 Armoured Horsemen
*Tusca is now a vassal of Cyrasian Empire
Antal, the Knights of Kaliseph, and the new Empires
The semi-stability achieved by Agre and its military vassals does not last long. After becoming fully established as a strong power in its own right, Antal wastes no time in preparing for a war to overthrow the Agrinese Empire. A huge army is assembled, led by the ambitious Karlyk, ‘Autonomarch’ of the Kristinyan family. Efforts to promote clan unity are also very successful - everyone is keen to see Antal and the Kristinyan clans take their ‘rightful place’.
Antal’s forces easily exceed 90,000 strong as they begin to advance into the domains of the new Bazilevs Aleksevs V, who is only 14 years old at the outbreak of war. Naturally, appeals are made to the vassal states for assistance, but the vassals make excuses or flatly refuse to help. Antal’s leaders have already been waging a successful campaign to undermine Agre’s authority, and to sway the vassals and the Agrinese aristocracy over to their side. The Kristinyds also produce several 'valid' claims to the throne of Agre. Overall, the odds seem stacked in Antal’s favour.
But, of course, the Agrinese Empire is not a pushover. The Agrinese still have centuries of tradition to inspire them. The city of Agre itself still has an aura of power and glory. Young Aleksevs V is surrounded by capable advisors, who quickly organise a large army of their own, to counter the Antalese.
The main Antalese army marches straight from salonyka towards Agre, led by Karlyk himself. The loyalists make efforts to block the approaches to the city, while Bazilev’s reinforcements are gathered. The Antalese bulldoze their way through. Aleksevs V retreats to Konstantynai, and Agre is soon under siege. Riots break out in the city, thousands are killed as pro-Antal/pro-Kristinyd factions make several attempts to take control. But loyalist troops suppress the riots with severity, and manage to keep hold of the city’s defences.
While Agre is under siege, the Antalese send forces further forward, to prevent the elements of the Bazilev’s forces from gathering together. There isn’t a decisive battle – smaller forces from each side chase each other around in a long war of manoeuvre, with roughly equal losses on each side. Still, the situation doesn’t suit the Agrinese. As the heartlands of the Agrinese Empire are overrun with Antalese forces, many of the smaller cities begin to defect.
At the same time, the Agrinese are able to assemble a large army in the east, and move with surprising speed towards Altyn Sarai, where they collide with smaller Antalese forces. The Antalese attack by land and by boat, across the great Osyla lake. The combined attacks take a heavy toll on the loyal Agrinese forces, but Altyn Sarai remains in the Bazilev’s hands after several tough battles. It is the only place where the loyalists have any real success. Unfortunately, some of Agre’s best military leaders are killed in these battles.
Meanwhile, an Antalese advance towards the city of Kafa in the north meets with no real resistance. The city surrenders quickly, and all of the north comes under Antalese control.
The actual capture of the city of Agre itself is disappointingly un-dramatic. Karlyk’s forces tighten their grip on the city and its surroundings, with no chance of being repulsed. Negotiations begin for the city’s surrender. Eventually, the gates of Agre are opened to Karlyk without a fight. No longer shall the glorious city be a capitol of any nation.
A couple of years into the war, and Antal is enjoying success overall, but the Agrinese forces remain strong in certain areas. Bazilevs Aleksevs V is growing older and wiser by the day, and beginning to clash with some of his advisors.
The course of events now takes a different turn. The rogue Knights led by general Kaliseph quickly storm through the north of Tarnas, looting and forcibly conscripting many people into their army along the way, leaving the vassal state thoroughly destabilised. Little mercy is shown for those that refuse to aid the Bazilevs. After setting up a headquarters in Herakleia, where they are met by more pro-Agrinese loyalists from Mycenae and Argos (and a small number of mercenaries from the mediterranean, paid for by Herakleia’s gold), Kaliseph’s combined force then sets out to do battle with the traitors of Antal. The Antalese are still superior in number overall, but now somewhat overstretched and exhausted.
Agrinese Empire: +6 Eagle Pikemen, +6 Armoured Swordsmen, +3 Repeating Crossbowmen, +2 Raiders, +8 Mycenean Knights, +4 Mercenary Campagnards, +5 Mercenary Axemen, +8 Dromon
*Tarnas is no more
A pitched battle is finally fought at Konstantynai (which was by now starving, and close to falling), where the Knights and the Agrinese loyalists manage to gain a slight edge in numbers. Despite the superior leadership of Karlyk and his generals, and the determination of their soldiers, it is a black day for Antal and the Kristinyd family. A series of mistakes and misunderstandings steal away what probably would have been a great victory, and instead lead to a crushing defeat by Kaliseph and his loyalist forces. Antal is then forced on the defensive for some months, its campaign thrown into disarray, and the sieges of the last Agrinese cities have to be abandoned.
Yet in some ways, the battle is also a defeat for the Agrinese loyalists. After the battle, and empowered by victory, Kaliseph manages to force out most of Aleksevs V’s advisors, who he blames for letting the Antalese progress so far. Kaliseph befriends Aleksevs and gains his trust, and then positions himself as the real power behind the throne. From then on, the remains of the Agrinese Empire and the lands held by Kaliseph are gradually combined into one. Upset by the influence of Kaliseph and his Knights, and increasingly distanced from any real power, many more of the traditional Agrinese military and aristocracy turn to Antal and the Kristinyds – who are reassuringly merciful to all who surrender willingly.
Several long years pass as Antal continues to advance, gradually wearing down the last loyalist strongholds. Unlike the Knights of Kaliseph, Antal has the resources and manpower to sustain a large army and replace its losses. Yet Karlyk is denied another pitched battle and a chance to avenge his defeat at Konstantynai. He has to content himself with many smaller victories. Nonetheless, the scale of bloodshed begins to reach that of the famous ‘hundred years war’.
Meanwhile, Antal is busy establishing a new order in the old Agrinese heartlands. It isn’t long before the new ‘Antalese Empire’ is declared. The vassal states of Artan and Turukan seem willing to declare their allegiance to the Antalyak and the Kristinyds, while the exact intentions of Byzar are still unclear.
Over the next few years, scattered fighting continues against Kaliseph and Aleksev V in the east. The new capitol of the ‘Agrinese’ empire is established at Herakleia. The city of Argos is besieged, while the city of Mycenae hands itself back to the loyalist Knights of Mycenae (who were still struggling to hold southern Tusca) in order to avoid a similar fate. The islands around Rhodes do the same. Thus, the Knights of Mycenae recovered most of their original lands.
Officially, the Knights of Mycenae are still vassals of Agre, but Grand Master Demetrios uses the war and Kaliseph’s mutiny as excuses to break all ties of vassalage.
The Agrinese Empire still struggles on, but it is very different to what it was 25 years ago, and even less similar to the glorious empire of the past centuries. It is based around Herakleia, northern Tarnas and Judea, funded by trade through Herakleia. The legendary general Kaliseph is getting old, and Bazilevs Aleksevs V may be unable to keep things going on his own.
Agrinese Empire: -15 Agrinese Pikemen, -3 Eagle Pikemen, -12 Armoured Swordsmen, -1 Repeating Crossbowman, -5 Altyn Guard, -5 Horse Archers, -8 Baghatur, -4 Ildyrn Cavalry, -4 Mycenean Knights, -2 Mercenary Campagnards, -2 Mercenary Axemen, -5 War Elephant, -2 Camelmen, -2 Screaming Arrow
Antalese Empire: -9 Agrinese Pikemen, -7 Armoured Swordsmen, -4 Altyn Guard, -5 Horse Archers, -7 Baghatur, -5 Ildyrn Cavalry, -1 Screaming Arrow
*Knights of Mycenae, Byzar, Artan and Turukan are no longer a vassals of the Agrinese Empire
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
Civilization:
Tian
Steps are also taken to disarm the general population. All weapon smiths are forced to work for the army, and special licenses are needed to own weapons privately. A law is also enacted making it compulsory for children to receive basic education – a very enlightened idea, but this can hardly be enforced. Children are lucky to see a scholar more than a couple of times each year, even among richer families. It does help to promote general literacy, though.
All this is unpopular with the peoples on the fringes of Tian, among whom the old traditions are strongest. It is rumoured there is a growing weapon-smuggling trade in the Tianese borderlands.
Meanwhile, ‘Tianem Square’ is also under construction - a gigantic marketplace and meeting-place in the centre of Aral Tiyu, consisting of large open plazas surrounded by impressive buildings. The biggest marketplace in the world! It is hoped this will bring more trade and travel into the kingdom of Tian when it is completed.
Tian now has one of the best organised systems of government, equal with the Taej Empire, and even better than the Agrinese lands (mainly because these are thrown into chaos).
Videssian medicine
In the city of Ranpor, Videssians encounter the famous surgeon known as Vadras, who practises a combination of old Pangari and Rayamese medicine, together with his own techniques. Phosist philosophy also forms a major part of his work. Perhaps the most impressive feat is the removal of eye cataracts, which can be performed with simple surgical tools. Vadras has prepared medicines and meditations to combat many diseases, and even has some basic anaesthetics made from rare plants. Broken and fractured limbs can be healed more rapidly using his methods.
This knowledge is taken back to the imperial court of Videssos, and also begins finding its way into the Videssian army.
The Leaning Lighthouse of Ys
Efforts to rebuild the Great Lighthouse hit a snag as the tower begins to lean out to sea. It seems the level of deterioration of the ancient foundations was underestimated. Now even more time and effort is going to be required to rebuild this wonder. But in the meantime, the unfinished leaning tower draws wealthy visitors to Ys, to witness this unique landmark.
Umidian voyages
In Umidia, much effort is put into shipbuilding during this time, particularly more sophisticated ocean-faring ships. There is a revival of interest in ocean travel and exploration. Umidian merchants finance and organise their own voyages. First they travel to the Thulean colonies of Ember and Arzamber (where they have to pay extortionate prices for supplies), before sailing as far east as Ohukal and the Yihamco islands, and then return home carrying spices and sugar (and various bits and pieces from native cultures). The voyages have not really been profitable so far, but the Umidians are gaining more experience in ocean travel.
Trade and Travel
Explorers from Norgar establish a fledgling trade route across the northern seas, between Norgar and the northeastern frontiers of Videssos. Videssian culture is slowly being absorbed by the Norgar.
Trade is revived between the Thulean League and Saruk, via Saruk’s vassal, the Sulchan League. As war once again grips the middle-east, the trade routes through south africa gain more favour.
The Thulean colonies in the new world are expanding slowly, trying to keep on good terms with the much more numerous native peoples. The island city of Mahutan becomes a trade centre for the region, with heavy involvement of traders from Hanawauk (one of the native powers).
Umidia keeps tight control of the straights into the mediterranean. Strong forces are placed to guard Oriant and Lisht, protecting the straights (and the trade passing through them) from any spill-overs from the chaos in europe.
New Panga becomes a trade centre, as trade with mainland panga increases.
After Videssos’ capture of Ranpor, trade is increased all across the western coasts of Asia. More goods from Panga and Ormash can now reach the markets of Videssos, and vice-versa. The trading city of Khanapor, currently held by Kymash (vassal of Ormash), is ideally placed to benefit from this, and grows very rich.
Religion
Theosim is banned by the Taej Empire and its vassals. Theosim’s intolerance of other religions goes against Taoism’s traditional tolerance. Which means that it must not be tolerated…
As a result, Theosim has no official presence in mainland asia. But, the faith has been spreading north into Aeonist state of Catalia, causing some disturbance there.
As Thulean influence over Geldra increases, the practise of Ultimism is one the rise there, and it spreads even further through the cracks in the saxon-anguile empire. Ultimism also takes hold in the new-world colonies.
The faith of Phos is carried back to Norgar by travellers and traders. Although, it is different form from that practised in Videssos itself, as it is blended with native Nor polytheism.
Aeonism is violently repressed in Germania. The few small pockets of Aeonist faith there are forced underground.
Rovien is the only place where Aeonism is revived and strengthened.
Taoism (or ‘Thaoism’, the different form that exists in the Mediterranean) is the now unofficial state religion of the Agrinese Empire. Kaliseph’s knights have strongly encouraged Taoism in all their remaining lands, and repressed other faiths. The ancient city of Jerusalem is now a major centre of Taoist faith.
‘Orthodox’ Taoism is spread further as there is a sharp increase in missionaries from the Taej Empire. It competes with Orhadism and Oruism for the attentions of the central asian peoples.
Diplomacy
Emperor Li of the Taej Empire marries a princess of Quipeng, strengthening ties between Taejon and its vassal state, and reducing Panga’s influence there.
Geldra and the Thulean League announce a royal marriage.
On the borderlands between europe and asia, The Cyrasian Empire and the Kyzar Khanate announce a defensive alliance. It would seem these two powers are turning their attentions elsewhere.
---
To: Knights of Mycenae
From: Tusca and Cyrasian Empire
Enough blood! We propose a cease-fire at current borders.
To: Knights of Mycenae
From: Agrinese Empire
We demand you honour your original oaths, gather your full strength, and march with us to defeat the foul Antalese traitors.
To: Antalese Empire
From: Turuk and Artan
With the decline of the Agrinese Empire, we propose that we become vassals of the Antalese Empire instead.
To: Antalese Empire
From: Byzar
We will not be vassals anymore, the time has come for us to forge our own destiny. If Antal accepts peace with us as equals, then our fleet shall act to cut off trade to Herakleia and the remains of the Agrinese Empire.
To: Taej Empire
From: the remaining Gyu States
We ask you to grant our lands protection from the Orion and Ormash Empires. We are willing to become part of the Taej Empire, if we can keep some freedoms (OOC: autonomous province).
To: Panga
From: Garuda
Pangan mercenaries and adventures once helped our people during the dark days of Ulakam occupation. Their descendants still live in our country today. We have much in common, and much to gain from cooperation.
We propose a defensive alliance, we would like your support against Tianese and Ormash aggression, and for Pangan military officers and weapon-smiths to help train and equip our forces. In return, we offer a free market for Pangan traders, to sell their goods from the new world to us, and to buy our goods at a cheap price, without any taxes or limits on this trade.
To: Videssos
From: Norgar
Hail, great Autokrator of the west! The humble Nor peoples come to your shores to trade in peace. We hope there may be long lasting friendship between us.
To: Germanica
From: Norgar
Hail, great leader of the Germanicans! We propose a defensive alliance, so that we may both turn our attentions to the real dangers that lie elsewhere.
To: Thulean League
From: Geldra
The Holy Empire no longer functions, and is torn apart by greed and aggression. We ask for the protection of the Thulean League – make us your vassal, and protect us!
To: Thulean League
From: Juhtland
You will never capture our homeland, no matter how many men you sacrifice. We propose peace.
To: Rovien
From: Dauphien
Our war is tearing the empire apart! Let us call a temporary truce, and join forces to repel the heathen Germanicans! We must deal with the real threats to our people and our faith!
To: Rovien
From: Almothien
We ask for your assistance against the Germanican invaders. In return, we will offer you our full support, and our brave soldiers will be at your disposal in future.
To: Umidia
From: Catalia
We fear for the future, as the Holy Empire is breaking apart. We ask for your protection as a vassal of Umidia.
---
Bonuses:
das, neverwonagame2, Warman17 and alex994, +1 spend point for stories
Notes:
I didn’t have UU info for the saxon-anguile ‘Chevalier’ until a day or so before the order deadline. I suppose anyone that was wondering about them would figure out that it was basically OTL Chevaliers or french cavalry of the middle ages.
No ‘random issues’ this time, I couldn’t think of anything worthwhile, and there was probably enough player-related stuff going on anyway.
Thanks to Luckymoose and Disenfrancised for making ‘europe’ more interesting!
Hmm, that’s it for notes this time.
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
KrimzonStriker
Master of the Dawn
- Joined
- Oct 3, 2005
- Messages
- 1,933
Awesome update daft, a good first step... now to plan for the next!!
From Empire of Germanica
To Rovien
If you want our continued assistance in the war in Saxony-Anguille we suggest that you return the former Saxon lands to us.
From Empire of Germanica
To Almothien
Our foriegn advisors made a mistake. We did not realize you would remain neutral. We will respect your descision to remain neutral and pull from your lands.
From Empire of Germanica
To Norgar
We would accept a defensive alliance.
Edit: Awesome Update Daft!!!
To Rovien
If you want our continued assistance in the war in Saxony-Anguille we suggest that you return the former Saxon lands to us.
From Empire of Germanica
To Almothien
Our foriegn advisors made a mistake. We did not realize you would remain neutral. We will respect your descision to remain neutral and pull from your lands.
From Empire of Germanica
To Norgar
We would accept a defensive alliance.
Edit: Awesome Update Daft!!!
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
thanks very much!!!
religion map is up now, usual place on the first page, or here
To the Empire of Germanica
From Almothien
We gratefully and humbly accept peace with the mighty Germanican peoples.
To Germanica
From Norgar
We are grately honoured that you accept this defensive alliance. Long may we live in peace, and prosper together.
religion map is up now, usual place on the first page, or here
To the Empire of Germanica
From Almothien
We gratefully and humbly accept peace with the mighty Germanican peoples.
To Germanica
From Norgar
We are grately honoured that you accept this defensive alliance. Long may we live in peace, and prosper together.
KrimzonStriker
Master of the Dawn
- Joined
- Oct 3, 2005
- Messages
- 1,933
To Ulakhi States
From Tian
Brothers, we see your plight, we hear your anguish and pain as you are besieged by the Orion Empire. We share blood, history, and heritage, and it can all be regained should we unite. None of our enemies would be able to stand against our might, and we would reach a new height in prosperiety for the Ulak people. Join us comrades, time is running out as the invaders of Orion now close in around you...
From Tian
Brothers, we see your plight, we hear your anguish and pain as you are besieged by the Orion Empire. We share blood, history, and heritage, and it can all be regained should we unite. None of our enemies would be able to stand against our might, and we would reach a new height in prosperiety for the Ulak people. Join us comrades, time is running out as the invaders of Orion now close in around you...
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
OOC: fiddled with religion map. Bigger spread of Phosism and Ultimism in europe.
To Tian
From Ulakhi States (one of the leading warlords)
If you can truly protect us from Orion and Ormash, then we can be allies. But we will not abandon our freedoms to you.
If you seek to conquer us with words, i tell you, we would prefer the sword any day.
To Tian
From Ulakhi States (one of the leading warlords)
If you can truly protect us from Orion and Ormash, then we can be allies. But we will not abandon our freedoms to you.
If you seek to conquer us with words, i tell you, we would prefer the sword any day.
Neverwonagame3
Self-Styled Intellectual
- Joined
- Sep 5, 2006
- Messages
- 3,549
I've been checking out this NES even though i'm not playing, and i have a query- Kenbu was supposed to give all it's terrortory on Tongusu's island to Tongusu. Why has this not happened?
EDIT: Also, maybe you could actually update the culture map for a change, Daftpanzer? While i can't use it to my advantage in my current posistion, i can see several nations who, if i were in their posistion, could.
EDIT: Also, maybe you could actually update the culture map for a change, Daftpanzer? While i can't use it to my advantage in my current posistion, i can see several nations who, if i were in their posistion, could.
KrimzonStriker
Master of the Dawn
- Joined
- Oct 3, 2005
- Messages
- 1,933
To Ulakhi States
From Tian
We cannot give proper protection toward your territories if is not recognized as under our control, we respect your wish for freedom and independence, but one must be reasonable within these dangerous times. While we cannot say for the Orion Empire, note that we have reached a heartfelt connection with our friends in Ormash and are sure to be able to convince them not to encroach upon your land... should it be seen that it is within our sphere of protection of course. How is this for a balance, your territories will formally join Tian, but retain much autonomy within its boundaries. Do we have an agreement?
From Tian
We cannot give proper protection toward your territories if is not recognized as under our control, we respect your wish for freedom and independence, but one must be reasonable within these dangerous times. While we cannot say for the Orion Empire, note that we have reached a heartfelt connection with our friends in Ormash and are sure to be able to convince them not to encroach upon your land... should it be seen that it is within our sphere of protection of course. How is this for a balance, your territories will formally join Tian, but retain much autonomy within its boundaries. Do we have an agreement?
TerrisH
Mischief?
agreed. perhaphs we can talk later about begining a proccess of peacfully reuniting our three nations into what it once was. but for now, we must deal with a threat to the south.
Agreed, we will come. Our Intleagences seems to have been faulty for we did not thinkink they would move this soon. as we were tied up in other manners at the time, we could not break away to deal with this threat at this time.
-----
To Antalese
you have waged war and seezed power. be wary, for we shall soon make our way south.
[Secret]
to which side, depends on you. you have shown us your power, and have shown us your will, unlike the decreipt declining fals power. we will deal with that over-zellous Traitor to our ranks. and if we do it as foes our allies, depends on you. show us the final trait that will prove you are the True Heirs to the Agrinese's powe and empire, and we will swear our allegiance to the new throne. show us your knowlage, and Garrentee the Prize we Truly want. Oh, and garrente Argos will be ours.
OOC: Argos, and something else, though the something else I will not say. you should be able to guess. and no, it's not Herakleia.
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
argh i forgot to do that, sorry. I'll make it happen next update.
To: Panga
From: Garuda
We gratefully accept NAP and standard trade relations.
The request remains for Panga's assistance in training and arming of our troops, if there is anything we can offer in exchange.
TerrisH
Mischief?
oh, and daft, Forgot to mention, I have a plan for the gliders. I'll send the basic outline of their future devlopment in a PM shortly. should add a nice twist to the devlopment of technolgy in theis world. and I'm pretty much going to be devoting my spending points to it from now on.
