Indian Summer

[GR8Madmax]

Thanks barbslinger. Hopefully the rest of the story will be worth reading also.

--

Chapter 8 – Fight to the Death

830 AD – It was one of those years that you never forget. I have found out that there is indeed an underground military order in Madras and it has to be addressed. A meeting was arranged with one of the Crusaders in Delhi. When I met privately with him, I asked about their intentions. He made it clear that their sole purpose is to protect the religious citizens of India. Even though I was advised against doing so by my Military Advisor, I have agreed to let this organization continue to exist. I have also granted the Crusaders a rank in the Indian Army under the condition that they will only fight under an Indian General. I have mistaken their intentions after all.

Peace reigns in the world, but for how long? Reports have come in that tension between Spain and Carthage is on the rise. I have been informed that Queen Isabella of Spain has expressed concern about the ever increasing Carthaginian threats. She had confided in my Foreign Advisor during his recent visit to Spain that she is very concerned about being perceived as a weak leader, especially since she is the only female leader in the world. She had also asked for Indian support if any trouble arises over in the eastern continent. I have sent an envoy to Spain and have assured her that India will back Spain but is in no position to send troops overseas. I don’t think any nation would attack a country run by such a beauty. It seems that I have a soft spot for the angelic Queen.

And then it happened – Carthage has declared war on Spain! I immediately sent an envoy to Spain with a message: Dear Isabella, hope you give into what ever General Hannibal wants and end this conflict quickly. You’re in no position to fight. Give him some of your cities if that will quench the warmonger’s thirst for blood. Sign a peace treaty as soon as possible

But Isabella would have none of it. I will fight to the death before I let Hannibal steal my nation, she roared. If India doesn’t want to lend a hand with fending off the aggressors, so be it. The great pacifist Gandhi can go to hell!

I was hurt. Why doesn’t the beautiful Isabella understand the position India is in? We would need bigger ships to transport our troops overseas. The Foreign Advisor stole the only vessel in the Indian Navy, a galley. She will have to understand.

870 AD – My Military Advisor came in with some disturbing news today and I was told that General Hannibal has sent envoys to nations all over the world to secure an alliance against Spain. As I was in the middle of this meeting, I was informed that an envoy has come from Carthage and is requesting an audience. I know what he is here for, I sighed. The envoy did indeed come with an offer of an alliance against Spain and he made it clear that General Hannibal is willing to give upwards of 600 pieces of gold if India willing to go to war against Spain. That much gold would be a huge boost to the Indian treasury. The offer was politely declined and the message was clear. India will not sell out.

890 AD – War still rages in the East and I see no end in sight. To my surprise, Spain is holding off Carthaginian advances and majority of her cities are still intact. Isabella is proving to be a great leader. I was advised that Spain will stand a chance as long as Carthage is unsuccessful in securing any alliances against Isabella. But that will not happen. The Mongols have declared war on Spain!

--

Chapter 9 – It’s a Mad, Mad World

900 AD – Now that Genghis Khan has tossed his hat in the ring, Spain is in trouble. How can the Mongols justify going to war against the peaceful nation of Spain? I have assembled my advisors and asked for their opinion on the situation. They all agree that there is nothing India can do militarily. Let us just hope Queen Isabella can end the conflict soon.

The East needs to learn how to live peacefully like the nations of the West. After the short outburst several centuries ago, King Wang Kon has been well behaved. He is happy with his Palace in the jungle and his 1-city nation. The Ottomans and Americans were on good terms since the beginning.

It was my Military Advisor that came in with the news – America has declared war on the Ottomans! Has the whole world gone mad?

950 AD – It is rumored that Abe Lincoln got tired of being pushed around by Sultan Osman and decided to do something about it. But no one has yet to provide the exact reason why both nations have gone to war. It was a huge surprise to me since I always thought these two countries had an excellent relationship. I wonder why my friend Abe didn’t mention Osman’s antics. I guess not having a Foreign Advisor around has its drawbacks after all. I better start thinking about bringing him back from his voyage around the world.

I have not lost hope and will try every thing in my power to bring peace and harmony to this world. The Sistine Chapel that was just built in Delhi is proof of that. But how can this magnificent wonder be enjoyed if the world is busy squabbling over petty things? India has no ambition to take over the world or destroy enemies. If we did, Korea would have been squashed a long time ago.

990 AD – War still rages in the World and I see no end in sight. Spain is struggling against two enemies and her cities are being run over by Carthaginian and Mongol forces. It was decided that an Indian envoy will be sent to Carthage. I will plead to General Hannibal on Isabella’s behalf. I must try to reason with him and get him to sign a peace treaty. Surely Carthaginians and Mongols got what they wanted by now.

I have been told by the returning envoy that Hannibal has promised to take my plea under consideration. I was delighted to hear this. Once Carthage signs the treaty, it would be easy to get the Mongols to do the same. My hopes and dreams were dashed by the news that I received next – The Vikings have declared war on Spain!

That was the nail in the coffin and I knew it. But Isabella did not agree. As far as she was concerned, the war is far from over. According to her, every Spanish citizen will fight till the end to defend their homeland. She would not budge from her decision. I was lost.

1020 AD – New York has fallen. The news was shocking. One of the greatest cities that I’ve ever been to is now under Ottoman control. The American capital is now in the city of Boston. America is struggling mightily against the much powerful Ottomans. The outlook looks grim for Abe. Why did Abe Lincoln never ask for my help to fend off the Ottomans? Is it because he knows I would never agree to it when India has an active trade relationship with Sultan Osman? It hurts to think that India is about to lose the only friends it has in this world.

Citizens are concerned. Advisors are grumbling. I am worried. It is becoming obvious that the talk around the country is that I am too soft to lead a nation. While most are happy that India has not been dragged into war, many wonder if I should have been tougher in my stand against nations like Carthage and the Ottoman Empire.

1030 AD – Today my Cultural Advisor came in with more news that I could have done without. When I heard that the Vikings have finished Sun Tzu’s Art of War in Trondheim, I knew Ragnar Lodbrok was only interested in one thing – finishing off the fragile nation of Spain.

1040 AD – All I remember is screaming at the envoy from Istanbul and the rest is fuzzy. How dare he? How dare he ask for my help to eliminate America? What did Osman think of me? Does he think that I’m a backstabbing bastard who will turn on his friends? NEVER! The envoy had to be escorted away when it seemed that I was about to strangle him. I was still shaking.

1070 AD – The time has come. America is down to 4 cities. I can not stand idly watching while the Ottomans run over Abe Lincoln’s cities one by one. I will send an ultimatum to Sultan Osman and demand that he end his aggression against America. India might not be able to protect Spain but we will surely protect the only friend we have on this continent. It was time for Osman to pick. Will it be the easy way or the hard way? It will be the hard way.

The Ottomans have declared war on India!

 

[Tappara]

This story is GREAT. Keep up the good work .

 

[GR8Madmax]

Thanks Tappara. The feedback is greatly appreciated.

Chapter 9 – A Conundrum of Epic Proportions

YES! Orhan didn’t realize he shouted that out loud. He did not know why some of the visitors in the museum were looking at him. I hope no one recognized me, he thought. They shouldn’t as I am wearing a cap, he assured himself. But he did not want to take any chances as he didn’t want to be discovered now. The War Elephants were waiting for him. He needed a more secluded area where he can read peacefully. And then it came to him. He slowly got up and headed for one spot where no one would ever bother him. As he cautiously navigated the construction material on the floor, he saw it. The tusks were long and reinforced with armor. The legs were strong enough to crush any thing in its path. It was bigger than any animal he has ever seen. The War Elephant had him in its crosshair, ready to drive the sharp tusks right through him. He now knew how it felt to go up against this mammoth of an animal. That is why he loved them so much. The display was being renovated and no one would ever bother him here. He sat down at the feet of the giant and resumed his adventure through history. Yes, the War Elephants were waiting for him.

1070 AD (cont.) – What a strange world it is. The only nation that is not at war is Korea. Even the great pacifist Gandhi is at war. Will the real warmonger please stand up?

India was not prepared for war. In fact, majority of the Indian units were outdated and the army is in need of massive upgrades. The 2600+ gold in the treasury will barely cover the costs of replacing the 16 Horsemen with War Elephants. This alone will cost 1900+ in gold.

The only reason Korea was easily tamed was due to Wang Kon lacking Iron. The Ottomans are a different beast. They are armed to cause major damage and are already prepared for war. If India goes in with outdated units from the Korean War, we would surely end up with massive casualties. There is only so much the existing War Elephant units can do. I am in a predicament

The information was sensitive and I had to be pulled out of a meeting with the Fruitarians of India. Their concern about vegetables having feelings and cooking live vegetables being cruel will have to be addressed later. When I went into the private war room, my Military Advisor was waiting for me. He had a solution to India’s dilemma – Leonardo’s Workshop.

At the time I gave Leonardo permission to build a workshop in the city of Bangalore, I did not think much of it. I was happy when it was finished this year as the requests for more resources to finish it will finally stop. The guy was just one of those inventors who kept coming up with useless inventions. Who in the right mind thinks humans can fly any way? Well, Leonardo did. I was informed that he has offered to cheaply upgrade Indian army equipment and armor but it will take time. He would need an additional turn to get all the resources to the workshop and do the massive upgrades needed. When I heard about the offer, I was not sure about it as it would mean giving the Ottomans a head start. It might be the decision that wins or loses the war. In the end, it was decided that India will wait 2 turns before we go on the offensive. It was time to hunker down and brace for the Ottoman invasion forces.

General Asoka has finally arrived in Delhi. He has been away training the new War Elephant division and preparing them for battle. In a meeting with him, I raised concerns about the effectiveness of elephants in war. I was relieved when the great General told me that he was more confident now than he ever was. He laid out the plan and wanted to attack Osman from the West. He thinks that India should leave majority of the fighting in the Eastern front to America. We will provide Abe with some military support to keep things even. I was sure my friend Abe would be delighted when he hears about the plan. Together we will bring Osman down to his knees.

My Military Advisor was confident that General Asoka will lead us to victory. According to him, the Korean War made the General a hero but the Ottoman War will make him a legend. I did not share his enthusiasm about the General and was actually concerned. Why was I concerned about him leading India to victory? I am not sure but I hid my concern effectively. I have decided to take an active role in the planning and execution of this war.

I was just informed that one of the War Elephant divisions dominated in a skirmish against a group of enemy Longbowmen in the eastern front. Upon hearing this, the nation exploded into celebration. According to the resident pundits, the Golden Age of our great nation has begun. But will it bring glory or doom? I do not know. I do know one thing…it has begun.

 

[das]

Very good story. I especially like the Foreign Minister.

Good luck fighting the Ottomans.

 

[gunnerxtr]

great story! i love all the screenies

 

[Ville]

Great story! Keep it up

 

[Sandman2003]

This is my first story and I’m definitely not a story teller.

Really? Seems to me that you have raised the bar here. Great work!

 

[Aeon221]

Dis story gets better and better! Ditty Maw! MAW!

 

[GR8Madmax]

Thanks guys. I really appreciate the feedback.

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Chapter 10 – Friend or Foe?

1080 AD – The estimates for unit upgrades & re-training were presented to me today for approval. For a total cost of around 1500 gold, India now had a modern army that can go up against the mightiest of enemies. Catapults were refitted and upgraded to Trebuchets. The Horsemen in the army was also given new training. A decision was made to leave the Swordsmen on the front lines in case the Ottomans attack while the Indian army was most vulnerable. Their armor upgrade will have to wait.

1090 AD – I posed this question to my Military Advisor - Why did Sultan Osman decide not the attack the previous turn? His answer was that the Ottomans will probably attempt to eliminate the Americans before they come after India. I was not so sure about that. I do not want to underestimate the enemy. I think Osman is up to something.

The upgraded Indian army was deployed to the eastern and western borders. General Asoka’s plan will require American help and I was sure my friend Abe will stick to his word. Abe Lincoln has assured me that he will not rest until he has control of his fallen cities, especially New York. That is what I wanted to hear. If America can keep Osman busy in the east, Indian forces can sweep in from the west and bring the Ottomans down to their knees. They took New York but we will sack Istanbul, I told Abe. Once the Ottoman capital falls, Osman will realize he has lost and will give up. I like this military planning. I am glad I decided to take an active role in this war.

One of the Palace aides came in with the news – We have captured Denizli! Even though it was not a huge loss to the Ottomans, it was a morale boost to the Indian troops. The Western Expedition led by General Asoka has dealt its first blow. The border city simply did not stand a chance. The Indian Trebuchets pounded the city and then War Elephants pounced on any thing resembling an enemy soldier. The Ottoman defense was nonexistent. The power of the mammoths was evident.

1100 AD – The war is going well. Another smaller Ottoman town has fallen and Ottomans still don’t have an answer for the mighty War Elephants. The Ottoman troops at Kafa didn’t know what hit them. The defense in the city had expected Trebuchet bombardment as a precursor to an Indian attack. But when the War Elephants charged their positions, the smart ones simply dropped their weapons and ran. What was left of the Ottoman defense fell soon after to the Indian swords. The city of Kafa now belonged to India.

1110 AD – The great General Asoka has made a huge tactical error. The Eastern Expedition that was supposed to provide support to the Americans on the eastern front was grounded near the American city of Chicago. The Trebuchets in the army needed roads to cross the mountainous terrain. There were no roads outside Chicago and the Eastern Expedition was stuck in the middle of nowhere. I was disappointed.

I had a solution. I ordered the Military Advisor to leave the Trebuchets behind and attack the western coastal city of Bolu as originally planned. The Indian War Elephants displayed pure strength and determination as they went on the attack in the battle for Bolu. With no defensive or artillery support, the War Elephants single handedly took the city down. The War Elephants continue to impress. I am also impressed with my military tactical skills.

I was eating dinner when the Military Advisor interrupted me with the news – America has signed a peace treaty with the Ottomans!

I was stunned. It was the last thing I expected from Abe Lincoln. Why Abe, why? America was the reason India is at war with the Ottomans. Now he decides to save his rear and leave India hanging? I threw the dinner plate across the room and it shattered in a million pieces, leaving a streak of food stain on the wall. I was miffed.

A delegate was immediately sent to Boston, the American capital. I demanded an answer from Abe Lincoln. Are you a friend or a foe? Abe’s response was that his army is too weak to continue fighting. America simply didn’t have the resources to fend off the Ottoman advances. I was not impressed and informed him that India has cut ties with America.

 

[GR8Madmax]

Chapter 11 – Hell, Fire & Brimstone

1130 AD – After the fall of Kafa, General Asoka decided to split up the Western Expedition. An army consisting of 51 units headed for the city of Izmit while the remaining 41 units headed for Mugla. With the Eastern Expedition grounded for the most part, he wanted to make sure the Ottomans still had to defend on multiple fronts. The split army would then be brought together for the eventual assaults on Edrine and Istanbul.

This morning the city of Izmit got a wakeup call but not the kind you would like. The large Indian force was outside the city walls and ready for the offensive. The General gave the 20 Trebuchets the order to pound the city. Initially, the bombardment was ineffective due to the city walls. An adjustment was made to the trajectory and the bombardment resumed. The second round was more effective. Troops inside the walls ran for cover. The General took the opportunity to send in the Swordsmen which turned out to be a big mistake. The defensive forces were ready for the attack. Indian swords fell to the Pikemen that was defending the city.

The strategy had to be changed. The Swordsmen retreated as the War Elephants were sent in. It was a battle for the ages. The Ottoman defense proved that the mammoths were not invincible. When the initial War Elephant forces were brought down by the enemy defense, more were sent in. Eventually it was the brute power and numbers that brought the city down. The battlefield claimed too many Indian troops for my taste. I was not happy with General Asoka.

1140 AD – When the Military Advisor woke me up in the middle of the night, I knew it was bad news. I could tell he was having trouble finding the right words. Finally he gave me the news - The Spanish are no more. It was General Hannibal, he added.

I closed me eyes. For a second I wished it was just a nightmare and I would wake up from it at any time now. But it was a wish that will not come true. I asked him about Queen Isabella. He simply shook his head and that was all I wanted to know. When he was about to go into detail, I raised my arm and motioned him to leave. I needed to be alone. I did not sleep for days. I decided to go spend some time in the Forbidden Palace. I needed to think.

1160 AD – The last few decades saw the fall of Sinop and Uskudar to the Western Expedition. The Indian troops faced the usual Ottoman defense of Pikemen and Medieval Infantry in both cities but were no match for the War Elephants with Trebuchet support. The split armies are now headed to the walled city of Edrine.

The Eastern Expedition was finally making some progress. Workers from all over the country were brought in and a road was built outside Chicago so that the Trebuchets can be moved into a city where they will be better protected. America offered no help with the construction of the roads.

1170 AD – The split forces of Western Expedition were supposed to merge before the attack on the city of Edrine but the forces from Sinop reached the city first. General Asoka made the decision to attack the city without the full army. Edrine was under siege.

The decision to attack early was a mistake. The walled city was very well defended and Indian artillery was ineffective for the most part. It was up to the Indian War Elephants to break through the Ottoman defense and the mammoths were up for the task. In the end, too many of them died in the attempt to capture the city. Edrine has fallen but I am starting to question General Asoka’s tactics.

1180 AD - When the Eastern Expedition captured the former American city of Miami in 1140 AD from the Ottomans, it was just considered a minor victory. For reasons unknown, the Ottomans attempted to recapture Miami for the next 40 years. Around 20 Ottoman units and 8 Indian units have died in the battles for Miami. I just don’t understand Sultan Osman’s obsession with Miami that is surrounded by jungles, mountains and marshes.

Reinforcements were sent in to Miami from Bolu. Walls were also rush built in the city as the Indian defensive troops were facing Ottoman counterattacks every turn. In an epic battle that lasted 4 turns, Indian troops manage to deter all Ottoman offensives on the city.

1190 AD – The Western Expedition is finally one big army. The force consists of Swordsmen and War Elephants supported by 42 Trebuchets. It has one target – Istanbul.

1200 AD – Madras has fallen! The shock resonated throughout the country. How could this happen to one of the greatest cities of the Indian empire? They attacked in the middle of the night, I was told. A lone Medieval Infantry was dropped off on the shores near Madras by an Ottoman galley. The attack was well planned. The Musketman did not expect an attack so far from the Ottoman border and did not stand a chance. One of the greatest Indian cities was now under Ottoman control.

I was furious when I found out that the city had only one defender. According to the Military Advisor, General Asoka removed majority of forces from all border cites to fight in the Ottoman war. I still don’t understand why he needed to take defenders out of cities when he had an army bigger than any other in the world. I am starting to think General Asoka is only concerned about his glory. For the first time I thought of replacing General Asoka. But that would be a difficult task considering the popularity of the General.

1210 AD – I was relieved when I heard that Madras was back under Indian control. I put the Military Advisor in charge of the counterattack and he did a masterful job with the minimal forces he had at his disposal. But the damage was already done. The population of Madras was brutalized in the short period that the Ottomans had control of it.

It was time to end the war. I was headed to the former Ottoman city of Edrine to begin peace talks. I will not let citizens of another Indian city go through what the people of Madras had to endure. Osman is surely willing to talk by now.

Wake up Mr. Osman. The first shot went right over the Istanbul Palace. Once the trajectory was adjusted, General Asoka ordered them to fire again. It was a direct hit. Part of the Palace façade collapsed. The artillery bombardment sent the whole city under cover. The artillery continued the attack throughout the day. Istanbul was under siege.

When the bombardment stopped, smoke was billowing from the city. As the troops came closer, they saw the unbelievable sight. The Palace of Istanbul was on fire! The fire was spreading and there was nothing they could do. The great city of Istanbul was going up in flames before their eyes.

Casualties of War: (as of 1210 AD)

Ottomans:
Longbowmen – 19
Pikemen – 22
Spearmen – 5
Medieval Infantry – 26

Total units lost - 72

India:
War Elephants – 7
Crusaders – 2
Musketmen – 1
Swordsmen – 11

Total units lost - 21

 

[Warman17]

Did you raze the city, cause a city was never destroyed after i captured it.

 

[Moss]

He must have razed the city...only size 1 cities are automatically razed.

 

[Berrern]

Wow, this story is awesome!

Keep it up, you're doing very well atm!

 

[das]

Good, good... Darn backstabbing Americans, you must punish them for this!

 

[blix]

This is an amazing story,keep it up!

 

[GR8Madmax]

Warman17: Don't be fooled by the screenshots. They were under the "editing knife".

Thanks Berren, Das & blix...the feedback is much appreciated.

Just a heads up to those reading the story:

I only had 12 days (starting from the day college ended) to play, write, edit screeshots & post the story. I will be going out of the country tomorrow (24th) on vacation and won't be back till July 15th. So, if I'm unable to post rest of the story before I leave, I'll definitely post the remaining when I'm back.

I finished the game yesterday so there is no doubt this story will be finished. Thanks..

-Tony

 

[GR8Madmax]

Chapter 12 – The Aftermath

1210 AD (cont.) – The entire world is in shock. All that is left of Istanbul is still smoldering. How could General Asoka burn one of the great cities down to the rubble? I have ordered an immediate investigation into the disaster. General Asoka has been relieved of his duties and will have to answer to a military tribunal.

I had hoped to commence peace talks with Sultan Osman at Edrine but he is feared dead in the disaster. The rumor was spreading regarding the royal family and their death at the hands of the Indian army. It is not known who is in charge of the country but I have sent an envoy to Izmit, the new Ottoman capital. The envoy never got to Izmit and barely escaped with his life as the citizens of the city wanted his head. The Ottoman Empire is in chaos.

With General Asoka awaiting trial in an undisclosed location, the Indian army was in trouble. The troops have lost the only leader they ever knew. Bewildered by the turn of events, I have decided not to appoint a new General right away. I am very leery of appointing another General who is might only interested in his own glory. I, Mahatma Gandhi, will take control of the Western Expedition.

1250 AD – After several attempts at getting the Ottomans to surrender, the war still wages on. The country is near anarchy after the loss of its leader. Unfazed by the disaster in Istanbul, the Indian army fights on under my leadership. The unorganized Ottoman army attempted to stop the Indian offensive on the city of Bursa but fails. The city and the great wonder Hanging Gardens is now under Indian control.

In the battle for Bursa, I notice a young man who showed exceptional leadership under duress. His name was Chandragupta. He had every thing that one wants in a great leader. I have put him in charge of a division of War Elephants – a War Elephant Army. I have also learned that the great Indian city of Calcutta has finished Copernicus’ Observatory and many are hailing it as a great wonder of the world.

1260 AD – This is a one of those years that one can not forget. To my disappointment, resident pundits have informed me that the golden age of India is probably over. But I am not dismayed by this. If the Ottomans refuse to lay down their weapons, I will have no choice and will have to conquer the whole nation. I will not risk having a renegade state so close to India. Some of my advisors have expressed concern with my decision but I have decided not to change it. I have ordered new offensives on the cities of Konya and New York. The Indian troops marched through the enemy as if they were nonexistent. In the end, both cities fell without much bloodshed. One of my favorite cites in the world, New York, was under Indian control.

1265 AD – The Western Expedition is on the steps of the Ottoman capital, Iznik. Instead of attacking the city right away, I have ordered that all roads in and out of the city be cut off from rest of the nation. Iznik is surrounded by Indian War Elephants. Let any brave enemy come fight the mammoths out in the battlefield.

1270 AD – I was inspecting the condition of my troops outside the city of Iznik when a messenger came with some news. Since he claimed to have both bad news and good news, I asked for the bad news first. I was informed that the former Ottoman city of Denizli has revolted and its citizens have taken control the city from the Indian military forces. I did not show how angry I was but rather asked for the good news. I was told that Indian researchers have finally obtained the secrets of Military Tradition and the first Cavalry unit has already finished its training in the barracks of Punjab.

The famous barracks of Punjab that trained the first War Elephant now has trained the so called Cavalry. When I was told about this new unit, I had no idea what a Cavalry was but did not show it at the time. It was later in a meeting with the Military Advisor that I found out about the capabilities of this new mounted horse unit. From what I have heard, I was very impressed with this new unit. If what I have heard is true, I have a feeling the Cavalry will decide a lot of future battles. My advisor has informed me that these newly trained units will be joining the Western Expedition in the near future.

1275 AD – It did not take me long to put plans in motion to re-capture the city of Denizli. It only took one War Elephant unit to scare the bejesus out of the rebels and the city was back under Indian control. The Western Expedition continues its march through Ottoman cities. The last city to fall to the force is Aydin. I was also informed that the people of India want to build the Heroic Epic and the Military Academy. I have asked the Cultural Advisor to look into the possibility of building both as soon as possible.

1295 AD – The last few decades saw the fall of Seattle, Antalya and Ankara. The Ottoman Empire is crumbling. The inevitable seems to be closer than ever but the Ottomans are refusing to give up.

My Military Advisor wanted me to meet with one of the veterans of Korean and Ottoman war and I agreed to meet with him. His name was Shivaji. I saw the potential that my advisor saw in the grizzled veteran. He was truly a military man and had excellent tactical skills. He was indeed a great leader like my advisor said. I have decided to put him in charge of a Cavalry force. India now has a Cavalry Army.

1300 AD – It was time to finally end the Ottoman War. I have made plans for the final offensive on the two remaining cities. Iznik, the Ottoman capital, was virtually a ghost town by now. Majority of the citizens have fled the city because of the impending invasion. I have given the troops the order to advance on Iznik. As the War Elephants rumbled through the streets of the city, those that were left watched from the safety of their homes. No one dared to jeer the triumphant Indian forces.

1310 AD – After the Heroic Epic was built in Lahore in 1305, the Indian troops seem to be fighting with more confidence. I rejoiced when I heard that Delhi has finished the construction of JS Bach’s Cathedral. I am realizing that being in control of the Indian troops has its drawbacks. The state of the country has regressed and I have yet to see any of the magnificent wonders that my great nation has built. I have made arrangements to go back to the Indian capital very soon.

1315 AD – It seems that General Asoka never gave any of his troops a chance to show what they can do. The Indian military has brought new leaders to the front under my guidance. The newest protégé that has gained popularity is a young soldier known as Porus. He showed excellent leadership qualities in a battle near the Ottoman city of Salonika. The great Porus will be in charge of a Cavalry Army.

1320 AD – The end is here. What Sultan Osman started over two centuries ago, I will end now. Salonika, the last Ottoman city, is under siege. Indian Cavalry saw its first battle as they charged the city. The few Ottoman defensive units that were left were sliced through like turkey on Thanksgiving Day. The city soon fell to the Indian forces. The once mighty Ottoman Empire is no more.

 

[Tappara]

I finished the game yesterday so there is no doubt this story will be finished. Thanks..

-Tony

That' very nice to hear! There are too many stories, which are good, but are never finished. This is the style these "story-games" should be played .

 

[GR8Madmax]

Chapter 13 – The Trial of the Millennium

1320 AD (cont.) – The world is finally at peace. I was happy to be back in Delhi after the long and grueling war. Once I was back, I was informed that a Senate of Advisors was formed while I was away to run the nation. The Senate immediately expressed concern about the way the last war was fought. They thought that I had commanded more power that I should have. I expressed displeasure with this new development and was annoyed that the biggest Republic in the world did not recognize the fact that the Ottoman war would not have been so efficiently fought if I had not taken over control of the troops. My tactical skills were evident if they simply look at the number of casualties both sides suffered since I took over the Indian forces. While the Ottomans lost 44 units, India only lost 9 under my control.

In the end, I had to concede that a better form of the Republic has to be implemented and that the powers will be delegated between different branches of the government. I was given an outline of the new constitution that has already been finished. I was surprised to see how much power the different branches of government would have. I had given the citizens of India the right to vote unlike every other Republic in the world at the time but now they are demanding more personal and economic freedom. I was not happy.

1330 AD – India is now a Democracy. The election was just a formality as I had no opponents. With 100% of the votes, I was elected as the President of the most powerful nation in the world.

1385 AD – As I attended the inaugural ceremony at the brand new Military Academy in Bombay, I only had one thing in mind – the trial of General Asoka. A military tribunal has already been assembled in the city of Punjab and he will be tried for war crimes. The entire nation is awaiting the trial of one of its heroes.

1400 AD – The private courtroom was ready. As a fragile looking Asoka was led into the courtroom, the room was suddenly filled with muffled whispers. It was the first time Asoka has been publicly seen since he was reprimanded. As the prosecution and defense made the final preparations, the 7-member panel entered the room. The jury that consisted entirely of military officers will decide the fate of the former General.

The prosecution painted a picture of a power hungry General Asoka who was only interested in his own glory. They provided with many witnesses that attested to the fact that Asoka continued the artillery bombardment long after the city defenses was weakened. According to the evidence provided, it was an artillery shell that hit the barracks that started the great fire. The biggest piece of evidence the prosecution had was about to be revealed.

As Chandragupta walked into the courtroom, many in the room looked puzzled. The great leader was about to be sworn as a witness.


Prosecutor: “Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help you God?”

Gupta: “I do.”

Prosecutor: “Please state your name and position in the military for the record.”

Gupta: “Chandragupta, commander of the War Elephant Army.”

Prosecutor: “Were you present at the battle for Istanbul.”

Gupta: “Yes, I was.”

Prosecutor: “What was your rank in the military at the time?”

Gupta: “I was a Captain in the Western Expedition under General Asoka.”

Prosecutor: “Please tell the court what happened in the battle for Istanbul after artillery bombardment stopped.”

Gupta: “After the shelling stopped, the General told the troops to stand down and went into the city. He took a select few with him as he was worried that there were still remnants of the Ottoman military inside the city. When we got to the Palace of Istanbul, it was severely damaged but was still standing. We saw palace guards scurrying about trying to rescue those inside the Palace. The General then grabbed a piece of wood from one of the destroyed buildings did the unthinkable. He set the wood on fire and threw it inside the Palace. Before we knew what to think, the Palace was on fire.”

Prosecutor: “You did not try to stop him?”

Gupta: “We were too shocked to even flinch. We were under the impression that the mission was to rescue the royal family from the Palace.”

Prosecutor: “Sultan Osman and his family were still inside when the Palace was set on fire?”

Gupta: “Yes.”


The courtroom was in shock. The defense counsel knew it was over. It would be impossible to refute Chandragupta’s testimony. They still went ahead with their defense. They contended that Asoka was simply following orders. The defense blamed every one they can think of for the disaster. Even I, the President of India, was not spared from accusations. But the defense failed to provide any proof to their claims.

The verdict was in. The 7-man jury found Asoka guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The sentence was handed down – life in prison. The trial that many labeled the Trial of the Millennium was over. The former General has been moved to a military prison in an undisclosed location. I was glad that justice was handed down. Asoka deserved the punishment he got.

 

[GR8Madmax]

Chapter 14 – Conflict in the East

1455 AD – The last 25+ years saw the Indian nation build 3 great wonders and a small wonder. The year 1430 was a great year in terms of cultural achievement. Shakespeare’s Theater was built in the city of Calcutta and the military HQ (Pentagon) has been completed in Lahore. In the year 1440, Magellan’s Voyage was built in the coastal city of Kolhapur. In 1455 Sir Isaac Newton founded a University in Delhi. Students and researchers from all over the world are attending this institution. The rest of the world is in awe of the cultural achievements of India.

1480 AD – My Foreign Advisor is finally back from his voyage around the world. As he docked his galley in the coastal city of Indus, he saw the amazing sight. The harbor was full of people. He then saw the doctors that were gathered on the harbor and was petrified. Apparently he thought they were there to apprehend him and send him to a mental institution. He thought of turning the galley around but didn’t have the strength to row the vessel any more. As he got out of the galley, a cheer went up from the crowd. He finally realized that the crowd was there to welcome him. He did not know how much of a celebrity he has become. The paramedics gave him a quick checkup and he was whisked away soon after.

1485 AD – As the horse carriage approached, I could see the Foreign Advisor attempting to adjust his hair. Unfortunately, he had no hair. As he stepped out of the carriage, I welcomed him back from his long, arduous journey. As always, he came bearing many gifts. One of the items he brought with him was a fish he caught off the coast. It was the best raw fish he has eaten according to him. I quickly got one of the aides to gather all the “gifts” and take them away. We had many things to discuss, I told him.

Later inn a private meeting with the advisor, I was told that the eastern continent is on the verge of conflict. Apparently, the dispute is between the Carthaginians and the Mongols. They are both claiming land formerly held by the Spanish Empire and neither is willing to back down. I was told that if India doesn’t get involved, the entire eastern continent will be soon at war.

After a discussion with my Military Advisor, it was decided that India will send Peace Troops over to keep peace and order between the Carthaginians and the Mongols. Since there is no declaration of war, it was decided that I do not need the permission of the Congress.

1500 AD – A total of 37 Frigates and Galleons set sail this morning and headed for Carthage. The Peace Troops consisted mostly of Cavalry and a couple of Armies. The force was big enough to surround any city that needed to be defended from any invading forces.

1510 AD – Today I met with a group of activists who called themselves Communists. They put forth an idea for a new form of government in which property is owned by the community as a whole and every one enjoys equal social and economic status. It was also mentioned that the Communist Party will have majority of control over the government. The more they talked about the ideas that they had, the more interesting it got. In the end, I sent them away. The people of India were happy with Democracy.

1515 AD – The storm had just passed over the Indian fleet carrying the Peace Troops. The soldiers sought cover under what ever they could find when the rain came and majority had since dozed off. It was a quiet night in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and the sky was dark from the passing clouds. No one saw the pirates approaching in the dead of the night. The Privateer blasted away at the Frigates that protected the fleet and the thundering noise woke up the entire ocean. The sailors scurried quickly and manned the closest cannon they could find. It was over before it started. The 10+ Frigates protecting the fleet quickly made a coral habitat out of the Privateer. The soldiers did not sleep during the rest of the voyage.

1520 AD – I was informed by the Military Advisor that the Indian Naval fleet carrying the Peace Troops has docked off the coast of Carthage. I have decided that I well go to the eastern continent and be a mediator. I will sit with General Hannibal and Genghis Khan and try to bring an end to the conflict. I will try to spread the word of a peaceful coexistence.

(The journal entries end here.)