Village Warriors....the War Gods call you forward.

[Jagged]

(For the maiden of Orleans who is away visiting the home castle. Reply when you return and be well)

Home Again

Once you arrive home there are many sounds sites and even smell that welcome you... Whether it be the hot bowls of stew at the Sea Dog Pub or seeing Mage grazing in the fields around the house. Life at sea is an adventure but home has all the warm conforts in your life. Hercules is happy to have you home to play with and Attewater of coarse likes having the lady of the house home. You also have an unexpected visitor at the family farm. Chelinda who was your tutor and fencing instructor brought her little grand daughter Edwina for a visit. The girl's mother Morcades who you played with as a girl is away serving with the Queen's guard. Edwina plays with Hercules in the garden as her grandmother chats with you over tea.

"I was wondering if my grand daughter and I could stay with you for a time. It would be safer here and the allowance the military pays to a family isn't enough for rent in Londium. I could teach here in the cove in exchange for room and bord and I brought my books and swords. I am sure there are many children who want to learn," she says with a smile.

Captain Drake & his wife Isabella, Captain Faulst & his bride to be Fiona, and to Gaeth come for dinner and it is a nice relaxing atmosphere. All spent their time differently at the cove. Drake and his wife both enjoy working their small plot of land and doing Bible study. Captain Faulst enjoys hunting and fishing in and around the cove. Fiona has a small business of her own that keeps her busy. She is a shepard by trade but as of late been breeding sheep dogs. Gaeth the constant professional spends many days and nights at the maritime house telling and hearing stories, working on navigation, sailing small boats, and fishing.

Over dinner he tells many stories he has heard from different travellars that have pasted by the cove and told what they know over a pint at the Sea Dog Pub or dropping by the maritime house to buy charts or hire a harbor pilot.

"We have had more tales of the Asian traders to the North. The Mongals are almost constantly warring among themselves or anyone else they can find. Theya re poor sailors though and leave much of the work to their Chinese serfs. The Romans near them have a vast trade network with all their neighbors with much of their trade fleet filled with Vikings. To the far far West we have had it confirmed that there is a chain of three Islands and over hundred small ones filled with the most savage of tribes. Head hunters mostly and cannibals. These tribes too fight amongst themselves. Aztecs and the Incas each have a large island while the third between the two is in dispute. They also need large ships for transport and sea battles and many foreigners are plying their trade there in exchange for gold or slaves. The Aztecs are said to have a massive supply of gold. Many think there is much money to be made there privateering, arms sales, and with mercenary companies. To the far South though it the great city of Troy. There the city battles with its Greek neighbors on land and sea and even the capital is beseiged. There are many options for us in matters of raiding and trading."

The meal it self goes well and much is disgusted for improvement to your small Cove village. Once the plunder from the voyage is divided up among officers in crew your Captains predict a buildign boom with all the additional gold. They do suggest selling the Snap Dragon while keeping the Nile Serpent. They do not like the design of the small ship and only the prisoners know how to sail it properly. They do mention that already a merchant from a smaller island part of Britian's realm is willing to buy the men so that they can work in the fields.

In the following days your business tax is posted letting all the merchants know what they will owe to you for operating their business at the cover. They of coarse are not happy about it but understand fully that it is part of doing business. Also the organzing of the Vikings led by Horvac into patrols. Before the week is out two bandits are caught and two killed on the coastal road. All the citizens feel alittle safer and the merchants feel their taxes are going to good use.

The auction is the talk of the whole region and begins many buyers to the area. Many wagons and ships arrive at the Cove and the pub is crowded with guests and those wanting a hot meal. You have no problem finding buyers for the bearskins and clay pots since all can use those for many different purposes. The tea is bought by a group of merchants from Londium who also are willing to buy the Snap Dragon after the repairs are complete to add to their small fleet (they arrived in three carvels so space is at a premium). They do pay a good price for the tea in gold but for the ship they offer ship supplies (sails, ropes, timber..etc) in exchange for the small vessel. What they off would be enough to build two Wave Runners. There is a fierce bidding war over the Egyptian grain which is of the highest quality. You soon receive 50% more then the going rate per bag for the grain. All the crew members and officers are very happy with their shares. All are willing to go on the next voyages, and new recruits begin to pour into the area.

In the following days the bar and brothel are filled with sailors from your expeditions. Some prostitutes from outside the area come and just setup tents along side the road and apply their trade. Fir the married sailors it is home to bring their gold to their wives and families and enjoy the simple pleasures of home. Others go to find a sweetheart now that they have money in their pocket. Many merchants are eager to alfit the well paid sailors with clothes, weapons or whatever else they may need or want. The Amazons get into the fight with some Arab escorts of a merchant and get into a huge brawl down by the docks. Know deaths but alot of injuries and bruised egos. It is close to two weeks before the wild town begins to quite down at night again. Business is so good that Izabeli buys two large marbel statues of nude women for the front of her building from a Roman merchant.

At home you play with Hercules and secure your large captain's share of the booty. Already a number of merchants have come by your house offering to sell you everything from jewelary, to well made swords, to dresses made of exotic silk. You have plenty of gold and silver from the sale of the good taken as well as a rise in reputation from doing battle with a death cult. You do wrire a few letter home to your brothers and mother. You send a small box of tea along with your mother's letter since she enjoys it very much. The chart of the area where the Asian shipping lanes are thought to be lay out on your desk. That will be the next place to strike though not your only option. The next voyage could turn an even greater profit then the last if all goes well. You also notice a bottle of fine wine with a note on it from Ardwolf the owner of the pub. He wishes you well and hopes that he can have one night of your time to cook you something more then just beef stew, bread, and ale.

 

[Jagged]

Try this again....fighting writers block and a busy schedule

The Visigoths


Roleplay....***** on the homefront one summer

Your mother and soon to be mother-in-law are in the home stretch of planning the summer wedding. Florentina is busy with both work and planning as she plies her trade doing tattoos for all the sailors at your bustling port then rides home to meet with the women of her family. Your amazed at the number of guests that will be attending the services and party afterwards. Ildefonsus finds himself making sure the holy sites are in order. He comments this will be the largest wedding he has ever performed. Most impressive of all the gift from the Roman frontier garrison commander. Legatus Legionis Anguisthe fiercehas sent you a pair of Arabian stallions, one is young male which is a grayish color and the other female who is dark black. These horses are among the most impressive gift you have received thus far. Saphrax says they are fine animals and youth and healthy.

He has less positive things to say about Anguis who is part of the Roman mercenary class. This class are Romans but from parts of the old empire that has long since collapsed, and travel about the islands selling off their services to other Romans (for the most part). Anguis which you now know is Latin for dragon earn a reputation as an organizer and problem solver. In dealing with the Celts of one island he cut off the right hand of every male warrior taken prisoner. Another story Saphrax shares with you about Anguis is of his youth when he lead Assyrian mercenaries as part of a larger Roman force which captured the great city of Jerusalem. It was there he learned how to break local tribes, and fight nomads and guerrillas. His Roman superiors taught him valuable lessons in organizing raiding parties, fortrerss building, and building a police force from scratch. He has applied these weapons time and time again in dealing with groups like the Huns, Vikings, Celts, and Numbians. Each time with brutal results has earned him wealth and followers. Goths have seen little of this type behavior since is commissioning as commander of the frontier. Since then he has taken the three small forts and massed them into one and made it an impressive fortress. He has cracked down on gambling, drinking, and prostitution to improve moral. Other improvements include a massive recruiting effort from what few Roman settles are near the frontier and the Goths living on both sides of the border. While once barely one understrength legion sleepily guarded the border now two at full strength with many additional cohorts patrol the boundry. He has done nothing other then patrol though and been a good neighbor it would seem.

What you do find out about him personally gives you an idea of what kind of man your deal with on the border. He is in his 40's but still robust and strong and since his arrival at the frontier has set many post records for strength and martial prowess. He is a widower but has a Persian mistress named Soraya who he has four young children with who live in his quarters. His body is covered with scars and he seems to have little fear on the field of battle, and gives little thought in joining the fight personally. He has a collection of exotic weapons he has collected including several weapons taken from dead chiefs, and at least three battle flags from other enemy armies. One thing is clear unlike his predecessors this man is no push over and he will be arriving midsummer for you wedding.

Orban at The Iron Wind reports record business and has more guests then he can handle. Business is so overwelming that The Hearth and Road Inn opens just on the edge of town along the main road. It is run by Cacamwri a foreigner who once worked for Orban, but saved his gold. Now he has his own inn and small farm. The first two barrels he brews he makes a gift to his chief. You find it to be very smooth and strong, and enjoyable. Amid all the construction in the new port The Dockmaster's Tavern is open by a group of merchants in a building meant for use as a warehouse, but the investors saw potential. There one can drink Sake, Ale, and a strong beer the Zulus make. From the Zulu workers the great chief receives a well made Assegai spear, and from the Chinese a large wood carving of a dragon. You proudly display it in the many hall which impresses all who enter except for Wulfa who uses it as a scratching post.

Your mother Andaswintha when not dealing with the wedding and the influx of the visitors enjoys tending her now large flower garden. She has had Publius Acilius Attianus build a fountain for her in the center of the garden which is another impressive site on the estate. For your youngest brother Svend it is a place for him to test his model boats. When he isn't playing with his models he joining your other brother Magnus in his new military training. Magnus has found some new and willing mentors among some Ronin samurai employed by a Japanese merchant who visits your port to buy timber, hides, and rope. They met your brother when they ventured inland and were shocked to find a Goth who knew custom and some language. They now happily but firmly teach their "little white brother" in the ways of the samurai during their monthly visits. The training includes everything from poetry to swordsmanship. He has also setup a samurai shrine of honor called a ishmael for prayer and ritual in a small hut near the armory and work shop. The hut which he built himself (he has always been a good carpenter) contains the shrine, a scroll rack, strange weapons, and bedrolls. Your sister Serilda (couldn't find a name for her anywhere so this it now) finally has her kennel completed, but already has plans for a second. To your mother's dread she even sleeps in the kennel some night with the new pups so they are well. Already several farmers have traded wool for the dogs and even a few merchants have traded gold for the strong well trained pups. Of coarse you have no difficultly keeping busy though between the demands on your time from your bride to be and the village which has now risen to the size of a town with more arrivals coming to enjoy all that your town has to offer.

Harvest

Publius finds himself also very busy in the summer months supervising digging of two new wells, more aqueducts, and the planting of all the new plants so that your people will even have more to eat. The granary is repaired and enlarged so there will be more room if their is a surplus of food. Your sister has asked if she can buy a few cats to guard the granary from rats. Tools are repaired and maintained and soon at work in the fields. Looks like you will have at least enough food for all the full time residence of the town. Also for the first time fishing will be a large source of food for your town.

Education/Relgion

Barolra has clearly thrown himself into his new position and when not working on the farm children spent time with their lessons. Many visitors are impressed how well the children of the town read and write. The children learn reading, writing, religious study, different languages, and history. If the craftsmen are pleased with the arrangement because they can get even more work out of their employees. Your siblings have tutors, but now are not the only educated ones among their friends. Florentina is very pleased with you that you will have not only the strongest people, but smart as well which is another kind of strength.

Military Training

The discussions with your captains go well and they begin to process of building a standing army as per your policy. At first many move to the reserves and front line units begin to reduce in number especially among the wealtheir and landholding freemen. Your front line units remain unstrength for some of the summer but slowly new recruits begin to pour into the town. They include clanless men, poor local soldiers, unemployed Goth mercenaries, and even Roman deserters. Though they all seem rough around the edges they all have combat experience and at least seem eager to serve. Some who want to be with the cavalry bring their own horse and put on impressive displays as horsemen. It will take time to form them into a team, but drills and mock battles are yeilding positive results. The navy still small puts most of its efforts into building a repair dock and working on basic seamenship with its personnel. With the arrival of every new merchant ship there is the potential for a new recruit. You have a small fleet but at least they will be well trained. Captain Recared tells you if you want more ships he will need a massive about of timber and skilled works which are in short supply. There are few that know navigation, and few have ventured out into the deep water. He thinks it will be several generations before Visigoths will be a sea going people. Bulgar says he has plans drawn up for other ships but for now is busy with repairing the ships of the new merchant arrivals. He promise you though if you need your ships refitted or repaired that you have the priority over everyone else regardless of current projects.

Diplomacy

The letters to the new Zulu and Chinese arrivals are delivered to the elders in the camp setup next to the port. The leader of the Zulus Markos is a strong tall blackman who is a skilled labor. It is said he has been a farmer, a slave and a pirate. What is know he seems to have a vast amont of knowledge and with your wedding gift he sends you a reply. He promises to keep order and follow the rules of your kingdom. He also promises that he will begin sending men to drill as soon as the work schedule will allow and every man will have a shield and a Assegai short spear. Liang the leader of the Chinese sends much the same reply. Since he has nearly three times the men as the Zulus he is the first to send his men to drill. They come armed with spears and a heavy machete. Liang is a very good fishermen and harpooner, but lately has been repairing boats with his men. All most all those who work and dwell near the harbor are men.

The other village chiefs do not rush to respond back and instead most send their replies with wedding gifts, and monthly reports. They all understand your need to improve your lands and a strong army is part of your improvements. They feel no fear from you and thank you for assuring them of what they already know. Still though you hear from those who are regular visitors to those villages that in privately chiefs are some what wary but mostly trusting. They will be watchful and know as well as you how important it is to be united.

Building

Ulrich takes what available labor that is left in the town and puts them to work on the path around the town as he plots out the wall and puts up boundry markers. He also oversees the construction of the cranes and equipment at the quarry so stone and be brought in in massive amounts to ensure a steady supply of stone once construction begins. While one project has begun though another is completed as the mill is finished. Farmers throw a party with drinking and feasting as the mill has its first day of business and within days a new Roman arrival begins work on a large storefront bakery. All in town are impressed, but the road if it is to last will need more work. Ulrich makes it clear that you will need many more skilled and unskilled labours as well as alot of timber and stone. He also feels that though he is skilled we will need at least another skilled man to help manage the project.

With your towns growth there are also improvements the people make themselves. A large number of the people now have farm houses and those with businesses in the center of town have some of the best storefronts with large workshops and confortable living spaces. Among the wealthy merchants and landholding veteran warriors fortified farms are being built which will increase the output off food and soldiers in time. Also these great houses will have their own priests and other skilled personnel once they are established. With improvements being made more flock to the town as land changes hand, and people see more an more benifit to living in town rather then the woods. At the very least more are showing up to market and town meetings. All this leads to an increase in your tax base which means more revenue for you and the town.

Exploration

No parties have reported back yet from their exploration of the Southern part of the island but midsummer a merchant arrives in town with some news. He says he ran into your men while he was exploring and fishing in the South a week back or so he believes. He brings a crude map with a note on it saying all is well and they need more time to explore the large area and that they will be back before fall. The merchant says they looked well and drank with him around the fire and ate with him then stayed the night before both parties went in opposite directions.

 

[Jagged]

Russian Turn....The Last of the Spring Offensive and the start of Summer

“The only thing that will redeem mankind is cooperation.” -Bertram Russell


The Spring War... The Battle Continues...


Attacks are broken off and the troops are repositioned according to your latests orders. Bloodied but still ready to fight your Cossacks cheer as they reform lines and decide to let the strategy evolve even more so in the face of a well armed veteran enemy. The right up swiftly but in steady of battling sword to pike they pull their bows and fire into the mercenary ranks. Excellant mounted shots which they learned since an early age as hunters on the plains they have the ablity to quickly fire three arrows in a row. Before the first even hits it mark the other two are in the air raining down like death from above. The Asian warriors use their pikes with both hands and are unable to shield themselves as arrows pierce helmets and armor. Screams of the wounded and shouts of angry can be heard from their lines. Pike drop to the ground as the mercenaries pull their broadswords and chase after the riders or yell for them come and fight fairly. Soon thought the Cossacks turn around and are putting them to the scimitar. Heads and sword hands come off and are soon littering the field. as the right flank almost collapses out right. Those smart enough or two badly hurt to challenge the horsemen of the steppes rally and try to reform. You see two large circles of pikemen on the right......

Meanwhile......

Father Acrisus takes your message but acts independantly taking all his infantry even though some of it would be better used plugging gaps in the line. Still though as your Cossacks fire arrows down on Vlad's mercenary allies the Papal forces drive a wedge between the left and the center. Church fanatics trade blows with noblemen as conscripts are terrorized by Spartan converts. You see a Spartan drag a noblmen named Deniska from his horse break his neck then turn to meet the noble's charge son and drive the father's sword through the son. Father Acrisus takes the initiative by riding through conscript bowmen who do not have armor. A necessary move. but hardly one would consider heroic in combat.


Your main body forges ahead as wounded are moved to the area and all those still able to bear arms march forward. Lieutenant Reidar wounded from a pair of arrows is carried back while lieutenant Telek defiently walks back to the farm while blood drips from the the bandage that covers the stub where his left arm used to be attached. Your many force approaches and fires its own wave of arrows into the center then into the nobles. The arrows drive back the conscripts and some start an all out run. Father Acrisus drives further into the nobles but after the death of Vlad's henchmen Deniska the other nobles rally. Soon the church forces are surrounded by well armed noblemen, knights, and footsoldiers. As you move forward the nobles break off their attack and make an orderly retreat, but not before one of Deniska's retainer's takes the father's head and kills the standard bearer and rides off with his prizes. Though there are effort's made to take back the church standard valient they are in vain, and soon the battered church followers for the most part move towards the rear. Except of coarse the Spartans who continue to fight on regardless of the odds.

The conscripts fight with some force because there are so many and for alittle while you think you will lose just because of shear numbers. Because your men are so well trained and armed though that for every one of your men that is wounded they kill at least one conscript. Limbs severed, and crushed skulls are how you measure advancement for the remainder of the day.

The Cossacks and the mercenaries battle it out but soon the horse men are triumphent and are butchering the mercenaries as they run back to Vlad's camp. The nobles are retreating but in a more orderly fashion. The abandon the camp though leaving many valuables in camp. You at the center now dirty and bloody from the fighting approach the final lines of your enemy. The black monks make the finally stand as you see Vlad and Czarina attempt to ride off back down the road that will take them to Moscovy.

The path is blocked by both riders and foot soldiers and few of Czar's great army turn to fight. You knew a huge army of weak willed men was no much for motivated well trained warriors. Before you can fight your way over to Vlad though an arrow knocks him from the saddle with a direct hit to the head. The crown he so wanted falls to the ground, and then to make matters worse the horse drags the body. As you reform your ranks of all those not already heading to the camp to loot you receive word that a young nun named Liza was the one who fired her bow at the Czar.

The main camp is a rally point and Czarina Kita with her advisors tries to make a stand. They still have plenty of troops and build barrackades around the camp. Soon though your forces have it surrounded and archers exchange shots with more being fired by your forces. Eventually day becomes night and in the darkness the wounded are tended and crying peasant women search for the dead. Perhaps some 600 of yours died in battle along though they are still counting. So far you have found some 2,300 enemy bodies.

Diplomacy

You surround your enemy and dig in and prepare to attack the next morning. Unfortunately many of the Cossacks have rode off to chase nobles so they can take them for randsom or capture black monks. You think you even see some crucified As you sit in your tent trying to rest still in your armor this ways heavy on your mind. Your understrength and things are not won yet.....

The next morning has a herald in your battlefield camp. Czarina Kita sees that she has no position to negotiate from other then what remains of the army. She promises that she will leave the island on her familie's ships as soon as she can arrive at port. She will also take all the remaining mercenaries, courtiers and advisors with her as well as her step daughter so there is no claim to the throne left on the island. She promises full return of all property and as a show of good faith has the herald give you the royal seal and documents agreeing to the the above mentioned. She will surrender the forces currently under he command, but expects safe passage to St. Petersburg and enough time to load the ships that are arriving there right now. You taking control will negate any titles given out by her late husband. The herald says that she shall wait and mediate until she has your answer.


New starts to filter in that morning and messangers from many different noble houses send gold and letters wish to workout a settlement since your position has improved. Moscovy though still under control of Vlad reports rioting in the streets and opening fighting in court. Most nobles that were near enough are held up in their strongholds and are nervous. Some are still on the road to their homes while some have just fled the country.



You think to yourself the summer will bring much change besides the hot weather. Tired and drained by a few minor wounds you have ignored you claps in your tent with the documents nearby.

OOC: Your turn now begins the first days of summer....all the normal things need to be dealt with as well as changes. look forward to see what you come up with next.

 

[Elayne]

Background

Katarinya watches the battle evolve, riding close to the lines to provide a boost to her troops morale and cheers as Vlad falls.

True to her word, she meets the young nun Liza and Vanya in her tent, giving the reward to the bow shot that felled Black Vlad. "Thank you for your brave efforts in the battle. I would also wish for a small memorial to be raised for Father Acrisus, who fought so bravely," Katarinya tells them, though in truth she is little saddened by the passing of the stubborn man.

Diplomacy

Katarinya meets with a messenger to discuss the terms that she will offer Czarina Kita.

"Tell Kita that I will grant her and the troops loyal to her safe passage off the island, so long as she renounces all claims to the title of Czarina. She may leave with her life and dignity. Black Vlad's daughter, however, must surrender. She will not be harmed, but she will go into a nunnery where she may atone and pray for her father's sins."

Katarinya knows that allowing Vlad's daughter to escape could lead to the woman returning with an army a few years later. She insists on the woman being taken into custody and turned over to Vanya, to make sure she cannot return to interfere.

"For the Russian nobles, I shall offer a pardon to any who wishes to immediately swear fealty to me and join my cause," Katarinya instructs, willing to offer generous terms to the native nobles who wish to rejoin the peace of the Czarina. "Those who refuse to swear fealty however, will be required to pay an indemnity for the war, and will be fined and extra 10% of their estate's income until the indemnity is payed off."

Katarinya hopes the threat of a stiff fine will encourage people to come over quickly.

War

Katarinya for the most part looses the Cossacks, allowing them to harry the broken remains of Vlad's forces, deciding that every one they kill is one who will not turn bandit when the war ends.

She gives the command of the rest of her horse and half her infantry to Captain Laurentijj, with orders to watch Kita and escort her off the island, so as not to be betrayed.

Katarinya personally takes the remaining portion of her troops and marches up the road to Moscovy, sending out runners to every town along the way to recruit conscripts and mercenaries to take the capital back and restore order.

Build

Around Moscovy, Katarinya sets to seizing control of the city, rebuilding the local barracks and manning it with her troops and restoring granaries.

She wishes to take command of the city guard and the city's food supply to end the rioting and to prevent any who might still oppose her from having the means to act.

She also permits church forces to rebuild damaged churches and to take control of and reconsecrate any churches or monasteries abandoned by the black monks. She makes a point of appointing Father Augustine to take a leading role in this, to establish his credentials so that he can be appointed Bishop later.

Trade

Katarinya requests that the merchants begin trying to rebuild the trade routes across the island that they were forced to abandon due to the fighting, instructing them to resume healthy trade, which is the life blood of the island.

She also orders Captain Frekki to take his ship to the island to the south east, where reports indicate a Crusade of Germanic Christians to be fighting against Muslims and Celts.

She instructs Frekki to land with gifts for the Christians, then to move on and do the same for the Muslims, to trade a bit with both sides. He is also to assess the situation and the relative strengths of the warring parties, so Katarinya can determine if it would be wise to intervene later.

Research

After looking around damaged Moscovy, Katarinya decides she wishes to take the opportunity to build the capital into a proper city. She calls for her criers and asks them to announce in the town square that she will be hiring architects and landscapers of the highest quality to commence a project to beautify Moscovy.

In addition, Katarinya announces that in celebration of her triumph over Black Vlad, she will award 100 gold rupals for the theatre troupe to best commerate the conflict in a play, 50 gold rupals for the best painter to capture the battle on canvas, and 200 gold rupals to the best sculptor who immortalizes her deceased father in a statue to be set in the middle of Moscovy's town square.

Roleplay

Armed with her documents and her royal seal, Katarinya sends a request stamped with her own seal to the Church, instructing them that she wishes a Bishop to attend and oversee her Coronation as the tradition dictates and that they should elect one post haste. She strongly implies that she would prefer the moderate Father Augustine for the post, but she doesn't command it, as that might alienate the more independent members of the Church.

In private, Katarinya strips off her armor and washes carefully, tending her small wounds and bruises to prevent infection. She has her cuts stitched by Vanya with small stitches, to prevent future scarring.

The next day, she emerges not in her armour, but in a fine dress, suitable for a Czarina while travelling. She sends a note back to Kiev to ask Leshuya to prepare for moving her personal household from Kiev to Moscovy, where they will take up residence in the palace as is proper.

She calls for Vanya and Tabia. "As a Czarina, I must wed for the good of the country and produce an heir. I ask that you both combine to provide a list of suitable suitors. Any Russians must be unambitious enough to be satisfied as a Prince Consort. Any foreigners must provide strong alliances while being distant enough to not interfere in our internal affairs. And of course, try to pick men that are well favoured and intelligent."

 

[Tonofnoise]

Its short but it gets me out there

Roleplay:
Like a bee hive tapped by a strong spring breeze the town of Bain is a buzz with activities. The new mill, seaport, new roads, and walls for the defense of the town are all the major projects going on. Everyday new merchants and laborers come through town both looking to sell their wears or to find work. Much like his town, Tufa’s life is a whirlwind of events, meetings, and lunches with new merchants, tribe leaders, and most of all time stolen from his busy life to spend with Florentina. Every day they steal some time to walk alone out side the village along a small creek where local children play. Now more than every Tufa showers his future wife with physical and verbal displays of affection to reminder her how much she means to him. As always all gestures are always well received and reciprocated.

Build:
However on a more serious side Bulgar & Ulrich both on pull Tufa aside during his meetings with the Elders. Lumber and workers are both needed to keep the projects moving smoothly. Tufa tells both men not to worry that skilled workers and lumber will be gotten in order to keep projects working.

Diplomacy:
With that said Tufa and Florentina take some time off from their busy schedules to travel to the surrounding villages to speak of the islands growth and the needs of Bain. They inform the village elders that any man looking for work is welcomed to seek employment both in Bain’s standing army and in the public works. When traveling to Visen, Tufa expresses his pleasure in how the first settlement has grown so well but improvements in the mining need to be made. “ By this time next year I hope to see an improvement as to the amount of quality ore that we can extract. If assistance is needed to please sent a letter of request to me directly. I will try to have Publius spend some time surveying the situation.

Family:
No to ignore this role as head of the house one a week Tufa gathers his family to side for a family meal and discuss events. Andaswintha speaks of her time with Publius, while Svend enjoys this model ships and talks about his wishes to spend more time down by the docks looking at the ships being built. Magnus recites his new favorite warrior poem in Japanese. “Magnus, Tufa interjected. Please do not see me as being rude by why have you spent so much time on studying this foreign culture and not the equal time studying your own culture?” Magnus, a bit mad that his brother interrupted his poem recital calmed himself. “Dear brother I know you have been very busy leading our village that small items of business elude you. I have a fine tutor, Sojorua, who has taught me plenty about my culture. In addition father taught all of us growing up where we came from. So my knowledge of history is fine. But thanks to you brother new cultures have been given access to our lands and the Japanese warriors and scholars have been kind enough to broaden my horizons to new ideas.” “And new Gods as well I saw, Tufa threw across the table. Have you started to worship their Gods too?” Magnus lowered his head. “No brother I have not forgotten our Gods or our people. The shrine out side is not to a God it is called an Ishmael. It is used for me to focus my energy and to pray to my Gods for guidance and clarity. I know what you’re going to say next so I will interrupt you this time. I could pray at our temple or to father however this is a custom that I enjoy and helps me gain focus. Tufa took a deep breath to calm his uncalled for anger. Since we are talking about me I wanted to let you all know I have plans to form my own unit of warriors trained in samurai to assist our local army. I feel that it is time that I too step up and do my part for Bain.” Magnus sat down and looked across the table to his silent brother who was looking down at his half drank glass of mead. “Than at first light you and I Magnus will visit Captain Saphrax. You will be under his command in the mount infantry however we will speak about having your warriors used for flanking or for special operations.”
“Sovia by the sounds at night your kennel has grown rather well, and Lyentta, Barolra has told me great stories of your assistance in the temple. He has spoken to me about leading you on the path of being a priestess if you feel that is your calling.”

 

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"The sinews of war are five - men, money, materials, maintenance (food) and morale."-Ernest Hemingway


Roleplay:

Good news and enlargement of the estate

Time spent at home especially enjoying the company of just your wife and your child is times to be savored. The happiness of your home coming is only increased when Guennola shares with you that she is pregnant again. She suspected she was before you left, but wanted to be sure and is beginning to show which has her overjoyed. Besides the bathhouse time your invited to visit Guennola's farm on the edge of the estate. It is al large farm and has good wheat crop growing with many rabbits, cows, and hunting dogs roaming the land. Her greatest prize is her herd of horses she has bred. They are a mix between the strong work horses first brought to the island by your engineers for heavy work and Arabian stallions given to you as gifts. Near the stables she also has a large shrine to Epona the Goddess of horses. She says she makes daily offerings to please the Goddess and makes sure the horses are well taken care for which is the best way to respect the goddess. You also find that cavalrymen and knights often come during the week to pay homage to the goddess...

Your wife is thrilled that Christophorus will have someone to play with whether you are blessed with a boy or a girl. She has already made an offering at her shrine to Cernunnos and Rosmerta the Celtic God and Goddess of love and fertility in her small chapel near the entrance to the garden. She also shows you a small study she has built for you with books and scrolls she has bought at the port market places. In one corner there is a man size statue of Esus who Guennola tells you he is like both Mars and Mercury. She says this is more efficient if you just pray to him she jokes with you over a game of chess one night after dinner as she bounces Christophorus on her knee before handing him over to you to change. The as a simple married couple with Guennola keeping house and cooking you hunting and fishing and of coarse spending a lot of time together are short though and soon you return to the hectic business of running the government.

So you have yet another woman in your life.....

The your other addition to the family goes over less well since Takara has joined your household. Personally she is a very pleasant woman to all about her and speaks Latin well. She sings to Christophorus in her native tongue as she watches him in the garden. Guennola likes her but is angry that you surround yourself with so many other women considering how you met and married her through the work she did for you in the past. Still though you do not behave like other husbands so she continues to trust you...On that front before Arminia leaves on a fast ship on her diplomatic mission she and Dido search Takara's belongings when she is praying in the garden. They find many scrolls in her native language which is translated by a friendly merchant named Maro who says it is nothing more then personal poetry. They also find paints, but also many notes from Agustus and other writigns in Latin. It seems clear that she can read and knows what is going on around her in court. Whether she is loyal to you remains to be seen.

Alone time...

Before the meeting you head out on one of your new mounts and a hunting dog named Xun given to you by Maro after successful negoiations for permitts. You steal way from the cavalry troops sent guard you and visit Christophorus's grave site in the cemetary dedicated to all those who died in the invasion. He would be overjoyed to find a child named for him and that you are ruling your own lands. A you sit on the stone bench you remember the older boy who would battle with you and your brother with wooden swords. Those were good times.

On the road back you encounter Alcibie the Amazon scout who helped guide your troops during the invasion. She wears only a loin and skin is painted black. She has a bow on her back and he long knife in her waist band is covered in blood. She explains that she has killed a bear not far from the road, but needs help to hall it back to her homestead. You agree and dismount and with your horse and Xun go to fetch the bear. It is a large one it did not go down easy. You pull no less then three arrows out of it before you and Alcibie for a basic sled and hitch to your horse to hall it back to the small 100 person settlement Alcibie calls home. She explains that the bear which she believed mad came into the settlement a few nights back and killed several cows and dogs before going off into the woods. She headed out after it after preparing and tracked it for almost a day before finding it and killing it with her bow and knife. The bear is a great trophy and the settlment is safe once again.

Once you arrive in her camp you are not to surprised to find it is completely populated by women. Amazon warriors who took Celtic brides. Many little girls look at you with interest not often seeing a man. One little girl walks up and asks her mother where do you keep your horns. The mother shocked drags her away with Alcibie laughing. They are sheltered abit my king and they imagen the worst. Now for your help please stay the night and eat and drink with us this day. You argee and a runner is sent out to inform your household that you are well and staying in the camp. Though these warrior women would die protecting you Guennola still sends cavalry to watch over you while you stay with the warrior women. The women enjoy having all the guests at the settlement and many drink together and have axe and javalin throwing contests. As for you eat and drink in the main lodge which proudly displays both human and animal skulls. Alcibie points out Viking skulls taken by her mother, and set of Greek armor given to her grandmother by a Greek ruler for her service in wartime. She jokes that she also beleived she received the gift for being his mistress and bearing him four sons besides her mother and aunt. The feast is also very impressive even if it is served in wooden bowls and has all kinds of game. The women also drink a cider and mead. All offer you a drink and there are many toss in your armor. A you eat and drink you watch young girls battle with wooden training copies of Roman arms and shields. Your amazed how strong they are their martial prowess at such a young age. Xun who's breed is exotic and unknown to these women eats like a king and has a place of honor on a skin next to you by the fire.

You awaken the next day feeling as if someone hit your head with a maul. You get up from you bedroll by the fire and find a neckless of bear claws and teeth around you neck. You soon find Alcibie watering you horse. She wishes you well tell you you are always welcome in her house.

Politics

The grand meeting goes well and allows for a diverse group of tribal leaders, government officials, and military officers to talk and meet in the glory and splendor of Rome. All are pleased to hear the diplomatic mission has gone well, and there will be improved trade and relations with another Roman power. Many understand about the current war and many pledge to support Rome in the future battles against the Persians. Some even cry out for the creation of more legions. Others demand for an invasion of the home island. Some even suggest that the Egyptian state should be part of your small, but growing empire. Debating goes on into the night even after the meeting ends in taverns and private estates. On the domestic front though the return of the sickle goes well among the Celts as a whole and though many still view you as conquer their lands many see you also as a good leader.

Build:

Additions to the work force....

Three merchant ships and an escort ship arrive at the busy port of Valde Glorria as per your agreement with King Agustus. These craftsmen have a mix of talents from metal workers to carpenters and shipwrights. They soon secure a large building as a meeting hall and work space. Apartments in a nearby building are aslo secured. The small number of marines onboard each ship are discharge from these ships and setup patrols and fly the flag of their king. Leading this group are two men who are very different.

Akecheta a Sioux with long dark hair and buckskins. It is said that he has killed many men as he climbed the ranks from scout to Pilus Prior. He does not speak much and it is clear he does not enjoy city life. He brings with him many items and a pair of exotic and beautiful horses. He is often seen riding in the fields forests of the island. Takara confides in you she has seen him trip hearts from men and other brutal acts, but does not speak more about the matter. The other man is Roman name Gregoras is a diplomat. He enjoys only the best in food and drink and has several young male companions with him at all times who do not seem to have a purpose. He assures you that his people are here to work and observe and the marines know your men are the authority. He brings with him a number of letters from the king dealing with everything from buy seiege engines and ships to developing a policy so citzens can easily travel between both islands. Also he promises engineers and marines to garrison the small island between Syracuse and Valde Glorria. He would like from you 7 new galleys. His engineers tell you that the island has natural harbor and there is enough fertile land for farms to support the troops. The king requests that more actual work be done at the new joint military facility and advisors be sent to Syracuse.


In Toulouse the work continues on the new shipyard. The work has gone slow because since work begone improvement have been made and this will be the more techically advanced port you know of in the islands. It will have a network of warehouses setup for loading and unloading, a pair of light houses, good defenses, and its own lumber yards, workshops and administration buildings. It will truly be impressive. The smithies and granary project slowly begin to be completed around the island.

The people have taken on a number of projects on their own with impressive results. Among you Asian subjects you have found many orginal construction like two large Shinto and Buddist temples in Valde Glorria. Also a number of other erotic buildings. Some wanting to fit in and with the means have constructed traditional Roman large huts or farmhouses, but still remain unique. All display torii gates which are entrances to the shrine. Many are impressive and very tall. Among the Asians are small number of the elite mounted horsemen known as Huns. They are fierce fighters and mostly keep to their own clansmen and have settled on the edge of the city. Theya re an enthic mix and do business with anyone on the island. They are also very willing to fight as well. What is known about them is that they seldom ever build anything permanent and only form in large numbers to make war. Your Viking subjects have shown increased health from both trading and raiding and so every warrior has his own hall with many younger soldiers and warriors as part of his household. Each hall has its own serves including breweries, forges, and farms. With so much food plentiful all can afford to eat in your lands.

Your subordinate spend much of the day running your government and issuing permitts and filing paper work. All want to build so a large number of permitts are issued every day, but one is a very unusal request so much so Aethiops a dark skinned Roman takes the paperwork and seeks you out on a tour of the city. He brings you the documents that do not request to build one building, but a whole complex of buildings including warehouses, residences, workshops, farms, and even a boatyard. You listen to Aethiop as he explains to you in a tavern that a man named Hannibal a navigator and diplomat of the Phoencians put in for the permitts. They wish to build an outpost on the island for trade. On a map he shows you the location they have in mind. It is not far from your port and early surveys by your engineers said it was a fine location with fresh water and timber nearby and a deep inlet, but had limited potential for growth. This is news consider the Phoencians are known to have outposts on 2/3 of the known islands (110) and even cities. They are true sea people and are great traders. They are famous for exporting their cedar wood from their home island. Aethiop realized the importance of this information and wants to know what actions you wish him to take.

"SI NON POTESTIS, POSSUMUS"
(If You Can't, We Can).

Trade

Queen Batar: And her sister as ususal send their love along with the normal dispatches from their kingdom. They give permission for you to build a forum in their main port city and declare it a Roman trade zone and request a diplomat to handle all matters of business in that area. Ship loads of beer begin to arrive and your people do warm up to it well enough so sales go well enough. The Queen simply cannot understand why a man could not find a use for camels and says your forces in her lands have found them useful for transport of supplies. Your wife keeps the 8 you already have in the main stables and the staff find them to be very curious creatures. A new trade item that has become very popular is the Eygptian cotton. Soft, beautiful, and strong it has many uses. Died it makes beautiful dresses and your wife has bought several bolts of it for dresses and sheets.

Syracuse: Some merchants have set sail for the large city to trade commodities for goods. Some young nobles from Syracuse have come to your island in search of opportunity and to establish family estates here as well. Some simply see more land as a good invest while others wish their family line to survive if the great city was to fall to the Visigoths.

Kashgar: The Mongols do not seem bothered by your limited sales of seige engines since many of their battles are fought in the open fields. Armor has been the best selling item as of late and are often purchased in the wake of a great victory when the victor has gold to spend. More then once an armor has reported that they receive an order for a set of armor only to find their client has been killed in another battle before they can take pocession of the armor. This is no hardship for the smith though for often another client possibly even the killer of the previous client to arrive and order the same with some modifications.

The Mongols do trade in commodities you can use and many of your people especially the Vikings are buying their fine warhorses. The leather they sell also makes fine boots, and there is always a market for iron ore. The only real problem trading with the Mongols is the Mongols themselves. Drunken fighting rivals the Vikings and fights on their home island are carried to the streets of your cities. Two junks from rival clans both coming to trade attacked each other just off shore and the victor butched all the enemies crew and took their trade goods and ship and promptly sold both when they arrived in port. Another incident of note had two rival clans both completely taking over two taverns on the same block. One night after much drinking one clan actually went on a raid across the street killing all the member of the rival clan and burnt the tavern to the ground. They barely escaped justice by setting sail early the same morning with you city guards firing arrows at their ship. One Roman merchant tells you he was discussing business with a Mongol when another Mongol came over beheaded the other and offered a better price on farm horses. The Mongols want trade to continue, but feel no need to change their behavior.

Harvest

Your staff is very impressed by the output of the farms and livestock and deliver their estimate for the year. They believe if levels stay as they are 1/4 will be consumed by the population easily with enough for another 1/4 to be put in reserve. The remaining 2/4 is a surplus that has to be sold or used. Many of your people feel secure in that no one will go hungry and there is plenty of land left to work.

Your own personal project goes well and soon the falconry is up and several of the bird have made nests. Soon you will have many fine falcons for hunting. The falcon you have had since boyhood still continues to sleep in your room and wife does not mind the large nest on top of the bookshelf.

The crossbreeding of the wolves and dogs does very well and now there are a number of breeders. The military loves them and almody every Centuria has one as a mascot. Many use them to guard their storerooms or bring them hunting. The dogs though are not the only popular military company though. Cats have found their way to the camps also because they fill a need. Every granary has a cat as resident to deal with rats. Many cooks mark on a board how many rats their pet has killed in a competition. The winner's owner at the end of each month gets a cold piece and a fish for his fighter. You hear from Ancus that Usamah a cat who was a gift from an Arab trader and now belonging to a cook in the 1st legion has won 3 months in a row. Interestingly enough the cat seems to get along fine with all the new dogs.

Diplomacy

Syracuse: With the arrival of works things seem to be moving along. You sending your own representative to deal with the Visigoths may not go over to well so it is best to keep that secret. Young nobles mostly the third and four sons of large families have begone to arrive and settle as representives of family interest. At dinner parties and public events many think you have done well settling the frontier. These young aristocrat along with military veterans of your campaigns have begun to setup clubs. At these clubs they eat, drink, talk politics, and hunt and fish together. Some have a secretive nature and the membership is unknown.

The Cetls... seem secure in the idea that long as you rule they will not be persecuted for their beliefs. The fact that your bride is Celtic has helped, but your actions have as well. Some though among your people says that if one is to be a citizen they should speak latin, have a Roman name, and believe in Roman Gods. Still though most Celts say they can go about their business with little trouble. More then a few Celts feel your a conquer and far from a friend.

Simon....Simon Simon rewarded well for work he did no even know he was doing. Neither did his confederates who look very displeased at the party. Simon doesn't even make the ride back to Homestead. Your troops find him hung from a tree with over 75 stab wounds which actually killed him. His wife was found not far away beaten to death with his guards killed by arrows.

The conspirators are more silent when troops and supply personel arrive to collect the arms stockpiles. Little resistance is met as the arms and armor are loaded into wagons and are moved to the secure and loyal local armory. The fletchers, smiths, and armorers are brought back directly to your main arsenal and given work space. They seem to care little that they are now employed by the state and feel long as they are paid they will remain happy.

Training

Civilize the mind but make savage the body - Chairman Mao

The 1st Cavalry Legion has almost completely reformed. New weapons, equipment, horses, and training have been introduced. Large corrals are built for the animals as well as food stocked for their own granaries. Several units even plant apple orchards so their animals may enjoy treats for good serves. Each cohort has its own color of horses. White is assigned to the first cohort and when you see all cohorts on parade this looks very impressive. The Mongols quickly fill the ranks of the Auxiliary cavalry so much so that some recruiters need to turn men away. Celts and Vikings round out the recruits for these second line cavalry units. Spirits are high and many feel it is good that the army develop its units behind infantry.

Auxis and other "advisors" soon arrive in the land of the pyramids. The queen is happy to have more fighters for the cause and soon they are dealing with the Persian backed rebels and the Greek mercenaries financed by the Persians. "Sons of Anty" remains the unofficial name for the 2nd legion as well as symbols on standards, but Roman pride is encouraged. Your officers request that they be able to recruit replacements from foreigners (namely Egyptians) to fill the ranks of the fallen. The fighting goes well for the most part and with victory on land there are less resources to fight the war a sea. One notable event is the capture of three Persian vessels by Roman legionaries and Egyptian conscripts. The vessels were merchant ships, but had Persian army officers on board delivering military supplies to rebels on the coast. The rebels were defeated and many crew members were killed, but the best news was almost all of the Perian army officials were taken back to Queen Batar's court in chains. The Perians were greatly embarressed and the rebels were deprived of needed supplies.


The Tuatha Guard is being formed now that new recruits have brought the unit up to full strength. Primpilus takes command of the newly formed unit receives a new sword with this new position. He does wish to know if militia units will take up the many posts around the country and his new unit will be stationed in Rentino. He sees this as best and he would like the title of 3rd Legion to come first before Tuatha Guard. He would also like to include a wolf image on the standard because of the unit's attachment to the island and the animal.


Exploration

With the loss of so many any news is good news in regards to exploration. The Greek trader is very grateful for the reward you have given him for the rescue and promply gives it back to the community when he has his ship refitted since it was damaged during the storm as well. The ship's cat is purchased as a good luck charm and soon returns to sea onboard a merchant vessel. Scribes work to make sense of all the charts and maps and say they are very close to putting together a very detailed map of the island and surrounding waters. Once it is completed it will allow for more efficient sailing and remove some of the danger.

The great news is that a ship has returned actually two ships and the Captian Cartimandua (a Celtic fishermen and navigator before your arrival who rows through the ranks on merit) has an amazing tale to tell you of the adventures he and his crew had.

"Beyond the Kashgar they found a great sea with good fish so the crew could last beyond their supplies. Then within a week we captured an Egyptian grain ship not of our allies and Chinese junk filled with food and trade items. Within days though we hit a major storm which sank chinese ship, but we were able to save them men onboard thankful. The next day though we found ourselves off the shores of a city we would come to know a Kiev. The people are of Slavic and Viking stock and are at war internally right now, but are still a good potential trade partner. We sold off some of the grain there and took on some crew members so both ships were up to full strength. The people of Kiev have a very nice city and it is well organized. Duke Vakhtang who is there leader is away on campaign he is related to the Czarina who is supposed to be the rightful heir to the thrown. My lord this is an untapped market for us and they are not like the Mongols. The problem is that we must sail by the Mongol island. We did note some small Egyptian controlled islands. They do not seem to be with Queen Batar though. To make this journey again I will need more ships, men, diplomats, and instructions."

Espionage

With personel not being sent to Syracuse you must rely on merchants who have began to travel to the city for business. For many it is easy to make maps as they travel about the city and providence doing business. They also report that Visigoth/Romans make for good and honest workers if treated well something Syracuse's Romans seldom do.

Your guards and wolf dogs chase someone off of your estate who was near your child's window. It is in fact because of the dogs that the intruder was found at all because he hid so well in the shadows. Guennola is enraged that someone would even dare harm your child and you son's craddle is now in your main bedroom. Since this late night invasion the guards have been doubled and estate search thoroughly without result.

War

Reports from the front come in every few weeks along with diplomatic letters from your allies, and tales from merchants. As business is being established in Cairo a slow minorities take up residence there full time. Many of these civilians provide serves to your legion and broker the arms sales to your Egyptian allies. Some of it is done in gold, but many arms are traded for food and goods for the army. Also it is reported that many of the men of taken Egyptian concubines who travel with the army taking care of camp chores.

The war goes well though from what you read and it bodes well for you that your people are able to do well without your direct control. Victory along side your ally will go far in pushing the Persians back. Queen Batar promises once her home island is secure she will help you in a larger campaign against the Perians. She does warn you that she he has heard rumblings about the Carthaginians. They are not friends to the Perians, but they are not friends to anyone else either though. They hold three large islands.

 

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W.A.R. We Are Right

The Princess marches to the capital.....


Background

The summer is blistering hot as the war against your enemies continues...... The news that comes into you is a mixture of both good and bad as you sit in your tent outside Moscovy. The rain comes down as you sit at your table reviewing reports concerning a number of different events on the island. Ferapont a squire lent to you by his master an old knight named Garsha does his duty and polishes your armor which has been repaired since the last battle. You have been beseiging your capital for the first month of summer with little results. Your father who always looked ahead planned well for the possiblity of siege warfare. Not only is the city completely surrounded by a high strong wall there are a number of small farms and many guardens within the walls. The Kremlin has its own fields, storehouses, live stock and orchards around it so you know the opposition can last a long time.

Since the battle Vlad's followers mainly fled for their lives. Those who could returned to their castles and looked for options. Others died at the hands of your Cossacks and villagers loyal to you and your family. During the march to the capital all a long the road heads on spikes were displayed and peasants cheered for you as you road by their homes. More then a few little girls now have the name of the Czarina. One of the followers of Vlad who did escape the field of battle and the long march home is Edvard captian of the guard of Moscovy. The elite troops (all men-at-arms) he commands make up 50% if the ranks that defend the city. The nobles and peasant militia who make up the remainder have not taken up arms against you but reports from inside the city tell of chaos within the walls.

The three factions have taken positions withing the city but only the guards hold the walls directly. The clergy who are in command of peasants hold inner city areas and churches. The nobles hold the wealthier districts and actually have control of part of the Kremlin. The difficulty is all three sides are battling each other for control and have mixed loyalties. Reports indicate that they all want some and are trying to have something to bargain with when an army comes through the gates. The peasants are lead by a childhood friend of you and your sister's Father Akim. He was your first love and a very sweet boy who your sister took every opportunity to kiss. He was one of the first things you both fought over. As an adult he is known for his kindess to the poor and is confortable debating religion with clergy as he is on a bar stool. He also holds the rank of militia captian and is known for his skill with a Roman crossbow. The Nobles are led by Count Roderick he knows his way around court and has survived many intrigues in the palace. He is a skilled rider, playwrite, poet, and sailor. Your mother once though of him as a possible for you, but she found him to be rude and had slept with ever maid in is familie's castle. Regardless of pasted relations these are the men you must deal in one form or another.


You step outside and walk to the covered area where your Cossack guards find shelter from the storm. They all stand for you but you beckon them to remain at rest as you look out at the imposing walls of Moscovy. You caress Ziven's mane and feed him an apple thinking of the night in Minsk when you took him to make your escape. Your saddle sits next to your horse on the ground along with your lance and redcross shield. It would nice to go for a ride and not battle someone. You have to giggle as you see Hadeon drink down his volka with a plump Greek woman on his lap. She nods politely to you and smiles.

Diplomacy..... the art of words and war.

Lady Kita angerly agrees to your orders and departs the capital in a small fleet of Asian ships down the river. The whole way she is harrassed by peasants and your supports and one ship is even sunk. She seized property and brought slaves, and many other belonging which were abandon at the palace you have been told. You do hear from a Phoenician merchant that her familie's home city is underseige and she had to sail to one of their smaller landholdings. You doubt her family can spare an army and fleet to retake "her throne." Frekki still attacks their shipping and since he also raids fishing boats of the coast he is able to stay out longer because of the extra food. So on that front things seem to be going well.

Your dealings with Vlad's daughter Yakov do not go as smoothly. The knights of Minsk including who some fought that night at the tavern seize her at the hunting lodge her father kept there for hunting and entertaining. Sir Rurik writes you a report on the whole situation. It seems he cannot sent her to a nunnery as you requested or kill her as some would like too. She had an affair with prince Misha a distance cousin of your's and is now 6 months pregnant. The knights have her contained in the main lodge and under constant guard and wish to know your instructions.

The pardon and taxation idea for the nobles was a good plan and many that followed Vlad are willing to take the deal and even send you gifts thanking you for the understanding and offer support. The problems begin though when rightful heirs begin to arrive at your camp. Namely widows and orphans of Vlad treachery. Many had their land taken from them and family members killed. They are the true nobles and demand their land. Motya a young prince you were friends with tells you how his family lost their land. The family home was burned down and both his mother and father were killed. A long scare is across his face and he shows you a branding on hit chest. The mark of the black monks. He was such a hansome boy you remember and now he scared, bitter, and looking like he is aged much more then his years. He lives like a wondering knight now and camps outside your camp. You sigh seeing him angrly ride off to make camp. He was once such a sweet boy who always gave you a flower on your birthday.

Throughout the island factions fight in support of you and against you on all levels of society. Pagans who see you as their savior battle with clergy who had sided with Vlad. Asian merchants who princess Kita attracted to the island are assaulted and ships taken. Peasants and Vlads thugs fight in almost every village. To top it off a sea monster (giant squid from the description) attacks an Arabian trade vessel. It nearly sinks the vessel and kills many of the crew before they drive it off battling it with pikes, boat hooks, knives, and swords. Sadly you later find out it was Tabia's husband's ship and one of her sons was one of the one killed. He was ripped apart and drown and no body was found.

War

"The art of war is, in the last result, the art of keeping one’s freedom of action"- Xenophon, Greek historian (c. 430-355 BC)

The march to Moscovy is encouraging as volunteers from all over come to join your cause. Your army almost doubles in size as soldiers join you and even farmers and merchants armed with everything to swords and shields to pitch forks and butcher knives. Moral is high though it lowers some when they have to sit as they lay seige to the city. They are kept busy with building of earth works and gathering food and patrolling the country side. If few seige engines your best option is to starve them out and negotiate. What deals you have to make with each faction is still unknown. Also you must deal with the angry nobles before that becomes violent.

Captain Laurentijj reports that Princess Kita's fleet heads out to the ocean without incident. They did not spot peasants from firing arrows though or throwing stones. The cavalry followed her fleet the whole way to the ocean while he and the foot soldiers setup a blockade of the city. With conficated ships the river is blockaded as long as the surrounding roads. No factions within the capital will have food or any other supplies arriving any time soon.

With word from there comrades in arms many mercenaries flock to your banner for employment. From the Greek islands in the South both Spartans and Athenians despite the dislike they have for each other both seek employment. Some 4,000 Athenian heavy pikemen arrive seeking land in exchange for military service of one year. The Spartans number close to 2,000 put are all men-at-arms and veterans who wish for payment in gold and will leave in one years time. A third group also come in large numbers some 1,100 well armed, half naked, and tattooed Caledonians (picts of Scotland) arrive on Chinese merchant ships wishing to fight. They will take gold, livestock or slaves and wish to return to their homes in 6 months time once they have killed all their enemies. They also have a knack for fortress building.


Recruiting efforts in your name soon bare fruit as thousands come to join your army that would have dodged service under Vlad. Your ranks are swelling and many local militia leaders throughout the island pledge their personal loyalty and that of their cities, towns, and villages. Many cannot leave to aid your many army because of troubles in their own areas.


The worst news is that of the Byzantines another small island empire to the southwest. Always a trade partner they are Christian with Muslims making up a large majority on one of the three islands of their empire. Now their Emperor Julian who's mother was a Pagan like your mother is interested in taking your island as part of his empire. Many in his court have cried out since his father's untimely death that the empire must expand to survive. What is know of these plans is that he is enlarging and improving his fleet, and recruiting massively among his Greek and Roman subjects. Through church contacts you find out he exploring the possiblity of having an invasion made into a crusade, and marrying you or your sister to take a second throne. What you have heard of their armies is that they are professional and strong and the navy is filled with veterans due to constant fighting with Muslim slavers and pirates in the region. Before you have fully taken your island there is already a change to your throne.


Build

Father Augustine takes leave of your camp to deal with church matters. Though he plans a large rebuilding effort he wish it so that all may have work to earn money for bread. He will also do what he can to prevent rioting and spread the message that the church is behind you and will see that at least a church is dedicated to you for your service to the people.

The barracks are a welcome change for the men who have been in tents for months. You are the last one to leave your tent and set a good example taking the last cottage as you lay seige to the city.

It is clear that you have local control of the region at the very least and your excepted as Czarina.

Trade

Your courier to Frekki just misses him before he heads off to raid the ships of the Asian islands, but through other Vikings of his clan he will be alerted and return and then take your diplomatic mission. Right now he is being a true Viking raiding and trading.

With the war over for the most part except for small skirmishes around the island business begins renewed. Warehouses that are overloaded begin to empty as ships arrive in ports and merchants eagerly sell everything they can. The Cossacks even begin selling off booty taken from the dead the rode down after the last battle.

Business is making progress once again and it will only be better when you achieve final victory.

Research

Celebrations are put on hold but artists already plan for the celebrations all know will come soon enough. Architects and landscapers already are drawing up plans to restore and control the city once it is completely retaken. At a glance the new designs promise a safer city with wide streets, large building, and more friendly to commerce as well as be a impressive seat of government.

Roleplay

The church leaders read over your documents and find them in good order and your points well expressed. Once you take the city they will be proud to see you crowned in the main cathedral and are willing to pass on any titles you see fits as well as found any orders. With your suggestion the church council that will be selecting the new bishop says they will move Father Augustine to the top of the list. For his good works and being a true man of god he was already in good favor.

In your small cottage near Moscovy you enjoy one of the few luxuries you have on campaign. A copper tub filled with hot water is a heaven sent. Vanya even makes the cottage livable with tapestries hung on the walls and carpets on the floors. Vanya says your wounds are healing well and that your future husband will be the only one who can see them and only if he looks closely at that. You sink into the warm bath and for the first time in months feel like a princess. Dressing like a man, taking your meal with Cossacks, and using the woods for a bathroom could take their toll on anyone. You do read a letter from you sister filled with news of her son and the estate. Yasha sends his love and wishes to be there to protect you but has done what you have order of him. She also says that soon you will be an aunty again this summer and if it is girl she will have your name. She is organizing the move to return to Moscovy, but says it will be after her baby is born and her husband is home. She hopes you understand.

Tabia is saddened but says with her princess though no one says a word when she takes a week to mourn and not dance for the soldiers like she often does.

Vanya does promise you a prince will be found and says she has sent messagers with letters to all the prospects she could think of to be your husband. She says she is sure she will here back soon and knows you do not with to be alone.

When Hadeon sees you in a dress he smiles at you and takes your hand. As a Cossack plays the loot you both dance fire side. He kisses your hand and whispers you are beautiful Czarina. All the troops are impressed and you see many smiles from the men. Few have seen you not in armour and you refirm your beauty.

 

[Elayne]

Diplomacy

Vikings

Katarinya is glad that Frekki takes it on himself to harass the former Czarina Kita with raids and piracy as she flees from the island. That spares Katarinya from having to directly order it. Katarinya makes sure that Frekki is well encouraged and leans on the local merchants to make sure they don't ask any untoward questions regarding the loot he wishes to sell from the fruits of his piracy.

Father Akim

Katarinya sends a letter to Father Akim, noting their childhood friendship and her own support of the lower classes and peasantry, inquiring what support he needs to help her seize the city. She implies that she'd be willing to permit him governorship over a ward of Moscovy in return for his support. (She has him in mind to govern over the northern most Church Ward of the city, and run the mission and hospital.)

Count Roderick

Katarinya sends another letter to Count Roderick, cooler in tone but still cordial as she offers him a deal to permit him to retain his position and holdings in a direct transfer of his allegiance to her, with no penalties.

Captain Evard

Katarinya requests a parley with Evard, the captain of Black Vlad's remaining loyalists in Moscovy. "You're Czar is dead, Captain, and your defense of the city only brings suffering. You cannot win. Surrender peacefully, however, and I will be gracious in victory."

Sir Rurik

Trouble as she is that Black Vlad's daughter has a child of legitimately royal blood, Katarinya sends a letter to Sir Rurik. "When the child is born, he will be fostered by my cousin, the Duke of Kiev as is appropriate for his blood and birth. She, however, is to go into the monastery as soon as the child is born, under Vanya's care." Katarinya thinks that will be an admirable solution, the child will be under the care of her cousin and Doreah, her closest supporters.

Nobles

After reviewing the cases of the displaced nobility, Katarinya nods and holds a meeting. "Those of you who have been dispossessed will have lands. If you have been dispossessed by murder and treason, the murderous and treasonous will not be allowed to retain their holdings, and troops under my own brother in law Kalman will oust them and allow you to reclaim your homes. In cases where that is not an option, you will be granted new holdings around the duchies of Kiev and Moscovy, owing your fealty to either the Duke or myself."

Mercenaries

Athenians

Katarinya is glad to hire the Athenian pikemen, 4000 hardened troops willing to support her cause in exchange for land. She brings them on and immediately calls on Kalman, her sister's husband. "Kalman, I wish you to take command of these soldiers and sweep the island for bandits and the last supporters of Black Vlad. While I am occupied here in siege of Moscovy, you are to secure the rest of the island. Then, take the mercenaries to Minsk. They may settle at the port there, underneath the Baron of Minsk, to be named by me."

Spartans

After reviewing the terms of the Spartans, Katarinya decides that they too will be useful, strong infantrymen to help intensify the siege. Katarinya sends them their gold from her own coffers and calls for Captain Laurentijj. "2000 more strong men should help counter Evard's numbers and his troops experience. Make sure these Spartans are where the fighting is hottest; They are fierce, but honorable as well."

Caledonians

Katarinya is somewhat distasteful of the barbaric Caledonians, but she has heard that the Picts are terrifying to behold in combat, wielding huge claymores that can cleave a lesser man in twain. With a cold smile, Katarinya has the perfect idea for the Caledonians.

She publically declines to hire the troop of Caledonians. However, after she dismisses them, she discretely sends Captain Laurentijj to them to deliver a message.

"I have just the job to hire you for. I wish for you to begin a raid on the Byzantine Islands to the southwest of here. Establish a beach head, and erect a fort to gain us a foothold there, then raid out of that fort for the rest of your contract. Any Byzantine captives you take are yours."

Katarinya thinks that that should convince the Byzantium that she's not as ripe for the picking as they'd like, or at least buy her 6 months.. more as that will take them into winter. And with luck, the Byzantines will never know who hired the Caledonians to trouble them, as she keeps the entire affair completely hidden.

War

Katarinya meets with Captain Laurentijj and instructs him to have the conscripts begin cutting trees to make siege engines with. Over the summer months, the siege of Moscovy is to be intensified. "I want the city, Captain Laurentijj. The Kremlin will be mine," she commands.

As the rest of the island begins to fall in line, Katarinya leans on the merchants once more to sever trade with those still in rebellion against her, buying up all supplies to make it impossible for the last few to hold out.

If any particular section of the city seems to weaken, or if any of the internal factions comes over to her, Katarinya orders Laurentijj to exploit the breach immediately and take the city as quickly as possible, with the Spartans leading the way.

Build

Katarinya summons her best architects and builders. "Moscovy is the heart of our island, and once we have it held and stabilized, it will radiate stability through the rest of the island. Therefore, once we seize it, we must rebuild it swiftly."

"I envision Moscovy as three concentric circles. The innermost circle is the Kremlin, wherein I shall reside with my personal Imperial Guard. The middle circle shall be the homes and manors of the nobility. I shall allow nobles, ministers, or merchants critical to the state to build manors there, providing that they raise no walls nor keep men at arms on their estates. Only those with my permission shall be allowed to build there."

"The outermost circle shall be divided into four parts. The northern most shall be the Church section. There shall be build a Cathedral, a Hospital and a mission to help the poor and the displaced - along with the homes of the clergy."

"The southern most shall be the Academy section. There shall be build an Imperial University and an Academy of the Arts, along with homes."

"The west most is the merchant quarter. The eastmost is the trade section and I wish for craftsmen to open their shops there, particularly smiths, jewelers, and carpenters."

Katarinya shows the builders the plans she wishes them to enact, starting as soon as the city falls. She also encourages those displaced by the war, refugees and the like, to begin moving to Moscovy where they can resettle and rebuild.

"I wish to build for the future, where Moscovy will be the greatest city in the world. I wish each outer ward to provide homes for 30,000, and the central ward of the nobility to house 20,000."

Research

Katarinya calls for a mixture of Vikings and shipbuilders. "I am alarmed by the appearance of this sea monster so near our shores. I wish to know what it is, and how to kill it, so that our shipping may go unharassed."

"Moreover, I wish for our ships to be improved, as overseas trade is so important to our island. Gentlemen, let us pool our knowledge and improve our ships."

Roleplay

Katarinya puts aside her armour as she stands on the brink of Moscovy, making sure she is seen as the Czarina, imperial as ever.

She confers with Leshusa, writing back a letter. "Sister, I congratulate you on your forthcoming blessing. It is my wish to eventually ennoble Kalman as the Baron of Minsk, if he proves successful as a leader, and encourage the pagans of our island to move to Minsk, where they shall be governed tolerantly by you and your family."

Afterwards, she calls for several of the artists she has retained lately. "It is my plan to eventually build an Academy of the Arts in the southern ward of Moscovy. I want to encourage young women of families previously loyal to Black Vlad to attend the Academy to learn etiquette, dance and the court." Besides, that will also keep them under her own eyes, where they can't cause difficulties.

After reviewing several of the painters, Katarinya selects one and comissions him to paint several studies of her. She sits for a number of portraits to capture her beauty, making sure to wear a different scarf for each. Afterwards, she sends the paintings and the scarves, scented with her own perfume, to Vanya to be used as courtship gifts to the likely suitors.

Seeing how distraught Tabia is, Katarinya discretely sends a letter to her husband, noting that with autumn approaching the trading season is coming to a close, and inviting him to visit Moscovy and his wife. Katarinya also includes a little note, asking what he knows about the Byzantine Empire's Muslim subjects and their Muslim opponents.

 

[Jagged]

"The Nation that makes a great distinction between its scholars and its warriors will have its thinking done by cowards and its fighting done by fools."-Thucydides


Visigoths

OOCur friend maybe delayed some since his computer is being moved to his new house....I believe a new wife is also involved. As always my game is here whenever real life gives them an opportunity to escape.


Roleplay...

It is just days to the wedding and you have made your escape. With good friends and loyal retainers you make off to the woods. Your brother Magnus and his Samurai comrades also join you bring a well made sword (your style but Asian crafted very strong and sharp) and serveral barrels of exotic spirits a gift from their master. With your friends and family you eat, drink, hunt, and fish celebrating your last days off freedom. Your mother insists that Svend at least return home at dark every day, but he still seems to have a lot of sun. He reveals is most impressive project to you and gives it to you as a gift. It is a 6ft long wooden model of a Roman galley. It's detail is impressive and when the wind takes it sails it moves quickly. Serilda's gift is out of love and she gives you two strong pups from the last litter she bred. They are strong and playful hunting dogs. Many respect your need to be always with your friends who have constructed three yurts in a clearing in the woods far from the road.

The party was meant for a few days but it seems to be lasting at least a week. Friends come and go but your closet friends and allies stay most of the time. Your best and most trusted keep watch over the village and your guests. Florentina barely notices you have gone as she is busy preparing for the wedding. She has suspended her studies and tattoo work until the weeks following the ceremony. Many nights you go to sleep drunk and stuffed with the best of food. Mornings take awhile to get going, but by the afternoon you enjoy hunting or fishing. The evenings are filled with large meals and entertainment.

One night you and your friends wrestle another beautiful Egyptian women are brought in and dance Raqs Sharqi (belly dance) for you and your friends. In respect for their great chief the Zulus send two men Zithembe the older of the two and Mandla who is one of the strongest men you have ever met. In fact he throws a tree trunk across the camp and further then any other of the men. They teach you their exotic shield and spear fighting style. They use the Assegai spear which has two styles and is so well loved that the Zulus have planted the trees of the same name near the harbor. One style is longer and meant for throwing or stabbing while the other is shorter and with a wider head meant only for close combat. These men like the second more since it allows its weilder to deal deadly blows after the shield exposes the defender. These men give good lessons and hard battles and are truly honored to teach something new to the great warrior chief.

Not to be out done the Chinese do send men to perform an exotic sword combat for you and a martial art known as Kung Fu which neither you nor your men have ever seen. When the wagons arrive with the food another visitor comes up from the harbor. His name is Hu and is a Shaolin monk who is the leader of some 28 men of his group. They wish to spread the word, teach, and live and work among your people in the harbor. There they wish to build a large chapel and monastery for their group. They only have a portion of the gold needed to buy the land, but they pledge their loyalty to you and promise to pay the debt in full within a year of the completion of the complex. HU is an interesting man who before embracing the monastic life was a army officer who rose to the rank of general. He now enjoys being a craftsmen and hunter living each day to its fullest improving his understanding of the world. He hopes you will give the proposal consideration and wishes you well in your upcoming marriage.

Building

Good weather is regular now so work on all your projects goes well. The fuel that is needed namely wood comes in steady though now thanks to better organization, and better roads. Work in the harbor now has the addition of Moors. They are dark skinned Berber people and are skilled sailors and horsemen. They come in great numbers and are armed when the first of three small ships arrive off your coast. They bring their veiled women and children. You find some even have more then one wife. Tariq ibn Ziyad the leader of the band says they come to settle, work, and build a Mosque. They seem to keep to themselves, but are not unfriendly. As a show of respect and good faith Tariq ibn Ziyad gives you his personal ship. He does not wish to leave these shores.

Within weeks of their arrival though your brother Magnus comes to you with news. These new arrivals are part of a large tribe that was defeated by a large Jewish city state. They are conquestors and their leader wishes to spread their religion by conquest. This information comes his friend's employer who was visiting a port on the same island. He trades with the Arabs there often. What the intentions of these men is unclear, but for now the extra builders makes the harbor work go faster.

Diplomacy

Your tour of neighboring villages with you soon wife to be goes very well. Many leaders are pleased that you are doing well, and if you prosper they all prosper. Some voice concern that why do you have a standing army if not to challenge them on the field of battle. All leaders soundly reject the idea of losing warriors to your army. A man's warriors are a sign of his wealth and that is not even up easily. Still though your announcement does have some benifit. Those who are clanless and poor mercenaries come to you banner. Some 100 more men arrive at Bain before your trip is complete.

What the other leaders are willing to share with you is intelligence which is valuable. Those near the Roman frontier say there is much activity on the border. The Romans are impressing Goths into military service and sending them back to the villages in the heart of their land and bring in Roman replacements so only the most loyal guard the border. The border wall is only earth and wood and a few feet high but it goes the length of the island and has a road behind it for easy travel. Dotting the length of the wall are signal towers and beyond those are series of earth and wood forts which hold at least two cohorts of troops.

Legatus Legionis Anguisrs who is in command of the frontier has sent you a gift for your wedding and is planning to attend your wedding and is bring a cavalry cohort and entourage including his mistress.

* Once back from your diplomatic tour you find youyour port has its first diplomatic visitor. A Roman ship sits at anchor in the bay with a banner of a Roman not of those who are on your own shores. Stranger still the diplomat who is named Arminia and Goth woman who was born and raised on this island. She is dressed as Roman woman in boots and dress, but carries a long sword and shield. She says she comes in the name of Arilias another Roman ruler. What you know of him is that he has defeated Celts and Gauls and fought the Persians. Also it is widely known he journeyed to Syracuse and met with the King. She says she is a servant but not a slave and that her lord wishes to speak with about matters of state. She hopes to foster a relationship between your people and her new people.

Family

Many matters of state need to be dealt with and many questions, but the most important matter for you is now your summer wedding. All matters will be halted for at least a few days. Then you can return to your role as leader, but with a wife.

 

[Jagged]

A new player enters with permission of the War God...

We welcome young Princess....Sonali


Name: Sonali
Age: 18
Physical Description
Eyes: blue
Hair: waist length black
Height: 5’4"
Other: fair/sunkissed skin, an hourglass figure with high round breasts and long legs.
Brief History: Sonali grew up as the youngest daughter of the tribe’s former leader Sachin.
She was sent to an ashram (school) to learn all traits and knowledge of life reqd. for a royal prince/princess.
At her school she met few prince and princess of surounding tribes being a natural born diplomat soon she became friendly with most of them.

She was a good student with a fine mind bent towards technology she was always asking questions from her teacher Ravikant-a very wise men he was and he impressed by her started teaching her sciences and all the other branches of education which no other discipline of his ever studied. She lived in the ashram for 10 years.
At time she became 18 she was very beautiful and her hard work started showing. She was an expert warrior and a very sharp and expert diplomat, administrative and had a nick of improving all things technically around her.
Soon her fame was spreading around as in past 50 yrs there was no student of her callibure in the ashram (school), many said she was destinied for something big ,something that had never been done on this small island before.

Now it was time to return home her teacher told her but on reaching home she found a plague had hit her village killing plenty of people her entire family is dead except her elder brothers two sons who were just 3 and 5 yrs old.

However all the city buildings were ok and the population had reached an all time low....


After years of school which you loved in Mumbia your island's largest city on the southern coast you return home to Dehli qith great hope for the future despite losses fromt he plague. You are now the soul heir of your familythanks to the plague and with out any other families clearly in charge you seem to be the natural choice. So you head down main coast road with your few followers and wagons the ocean breaks against the shore on one side and sounds of activities can be heard from the jungle on your other flank. In the wagons are tools, books, scrolls, clothes and weapons. All were bought in the city as you were educated so there are both exotic and practical items. On your saddle though is a Khukuri in a sheath given to you by a classmate who has a bit of a crush on you and heard that a Kali cult is spreading throughout the interior of the island. Halim would have rathered you stay with him in the city. The Ocean is a beautiful site unlike the northern coast which is completely blocked by the Himalayas. You are at the front of the three wagons riding your horse beside the horse of your oldest friend Sevti. Her mother Priyanka was your nurse maid and tutor growing up in your father's house. She was widowed and always brought her daughter along while she cared for you at the house. Soon it was more of a play date that would last 18 years despite the caste system. She is a few years older then you and takes pride that she is the only craftswoman in the village and has made both furniture and tools at your family's farm. She is very beautiful and often enjoys the same things as you when it comes to fun less so when it comes to books which she teases you about...Now though your both going home.

After two weeks journey you are home at least though it is not the place you remember. There are far fewer people then you remember on your last visit there was well over 800 peasants in your village before the plague now only some 300 live in you village now. Many young and elderly died from the sickness. On the plus side thought there are some 100 soldiers left to guard and police your village. You are told this by Captain Haidar who is among the first to ride out an meet you on the road. In his youth he adventurered leaving the island and fought Greeks, traded on Japanese controlled islands, and hunted great beasts with Nubians before returning home and joining the army. Once within the village itself your people are thrilled to see you return home. Times have been tough and buildings are badly in need of repair. Still though there is enough food and the children being born now are strong and healthy. There is plenty of good timber, hunting, fertile but undeveloped lands and the Yamuna flowing to the sea Once you have toured the village and met with childhood friends and paid your respect to your elders it was time to go to your true home.

The family farm.....(check OOC for a description of a Fortified Farm) which you were raised seems empty without family. The servants are there though and happy to see the girl that grew up come home. The farm is well maintained and you find your room well taken care of and ready to move into right away. There is plenty of food in the storehouse along with tools, and weapons. This is a foundation for whatever you build for the future.


What you know of the island is but a tiny part of all there is to know....Your village home is but a few miles from the coast where the main road goes along. On the coast and located centrally on the island is Mumbia which is the largest city on the island and does large trade volume as well as have many important institutions like universities and temples. To the East of your village is Kargil which is a large town ruled by Muslims who are not at all peaceful like others you have met. They are pirates, slavers, and mercenaries to Muslim states. In the past they have raided your village. West of your village is the territory ruled by Chandi the violent female leader of her tribe. It is said that she knows of magic and is mad. Some believe she has killed as many as 30 men by her own hand. Like you though she was the youngest of her father's children. On the other coast which could take as much as three weeks to reach are the Iberians who invaded some years ago and annexed two Indian villages. The people there now pay taxes to these foreign invaders who have built much and do all most as much trade as they do in Mumbia. Also there is a rumor that a cult which praises Kali is spreading all over the island and even other islands. Finally North of your village near the mountains are the Nepalese tribes men. Tough warriors they seem to lack a leader. Some come to your village and seem like kind honorable men.


There is much to do.......how do you begin? Once again welcome.

 

[sonali00783]

Background:

It has been a week since Sonali returned home and visited all the elders and village folk.
She is feeling sad that the population has reached an all time low but at the same time happy that the plague is finally over.
It is time she is to be crowned as Queen and she asks her Chief Minister Bhomik Das to arrange a meeting for all the chiefs and later the entire village before she is crowned as queen.

All Chiefs:
There are following people in her court with following departments:

Bhomik Das- Oldest minister and a loyal servant of the family.He is the chief minister and looks after almost all details of the village in absence of King or Queen.

Ramesh Singh- A wise old men he looks after the finances of the village.

Capt. Haidar- A middle aged captain and some call him the greatest warrior in the lands. He has sweared to serve the family for his entire life ever since he was saved by sonali's father. He is the chief of millitary. He has 4 loyal deputies- Sohan singh , Ravinder Kumar, Jitender and Vijay.

Sanjeev Raj- Another loyal servant of family he looks after construction of buildings.

Rohan- An expert smith he is incharge for manufacturing all weapons and defence equipments.

Sunil- A genius he looks after research.

Ram, Sanjay, Hari- All of them are expert diplomats.

Anil- He is the village doctor.

Sampat- An old men he knows a lot about farming and mining and can instantly tell which crop on given land will give maximum yield and if you will find metal here.

Krishna Pandit- The village priest.

Reorganising the village:

The meeting has finally been arranged and everybody is keen to listen as to what sonali might wish to say.

The speech:
As we all very well know that a disaster occured in the island and the population has reduced drastically we are vulnerable to attacksif they occur. so we need to strengthen our defences and forgealliance with millitary treaties and trade treaties with as many friends as possible.

We are economically well to do but to become a powerhouse we must be financially very strong.
Also we need to boost up our population so we need our womenfolk to raise plenty of children and allow some immigrants to settle in.
The Questions and replies:

Also we need to have a proper map of our island what we know as of now is on south there is the port city of Mumbai.
On this Bhomik Das replies:
On east lies treacherous mountainrange of Kargil with Muslims who are ony interested in looting.
On west front there is village of violent Chandi.
On other coast there are two small villages ruled by Iberians and the villagers have to pay heavy taxes which is killing them.
On our North live Nepalese village who are excellent warriors and have lost their leaders due to the plague.

Finances
What is the lowest tax rates on the known part of the island for traders and villagers?
Ramesh Singh replies: for Traders it is 40% in our village it is 45%
and Villagers-35% and in our village 40% of their income.

Sonali replies from now the tax rate in our village will be 30% for traders and 20% for villagers from today on seeing his reaction she answers trust me Ramesh ji.

Millitary:
What is our millitary strength?
Capt Haidar replies we have 45 trained heavy swordsmen and 35 trained ranged bowmen and 20 cavalary men.

Can we have swordsmen trained with bows and bowmen trained with swords so they can hold off enemy in case other group is missing?

Capt. Haidar replies yes we can and we will start right away.

Build
Sanjeev Raj ji i want you to get all buildings in shape urgently starting with the Chapel. I also want you to construct a good dockyard on the river Yamuna so we can have Naval Trade Route. i would also like to have a Tavern build near the dock. the wood you will need must be cut from near the village i want all forest surrounding village boundary upto 10 Km be removed so we have room to expand and cannot be ambushed but leave some forest cover after 5 km so we a natural defence and try to create passages. you can use the swordsmen here in shifts so they have time to train and you get enough men to complete the work in next two months.

i would also love to see a stone wall defence for our village.

Weapons
Rohan and Sunil i want you to work on better quality of weapons so we have more powerful swords like these giving them my own sword given to me by my guru. and better bows and arrows.

Diplomacy
Ram - I want you to travell to the other coast and inform the villagers there that they can immigrate to our village the tax rates and that land is available to work on also take 5 cavalary men and a scout and make sure you map everything. Also if you visit an unknown village try to make friends with them.

Sanjay - I want you to travelNorth and try and get as many people as possible. Also try to have alliances with as many tribes as possible. Also map the area take a scout and 5 cavalary.

Hari: You travel to Mumbai and pay respects to Ravikantji and present him this gift and request him to come to our village to give our village blessings.
Then travel south from there through coast you will find plenty of small villages like ours and try to forge an alliance with them most of prince and princess from there studied with me and you will find it easy.Take 8 cavalary and a scout.

Health

Anilji try to prepare medicines so we have more pregnancies in our womenfolk. Also try to improve on your medicine for plague in case the epidemic occurs again.

Agriculture and Mining
Sampatji i would like you to accopany Sanjeev raj and mark areas for deforestation which are good for agriculture and mining so when we expand we start right away also tell him off bad lands so we can have roads on them.

Religion

Krishna ji we would like you to organise a month long prayer so god may bless us and guide us.

Training of Villagers
Sevti: I want you to make some furniture, tools and craft items and also train handicraft to women folf so they can do something when they are pregnant in their homes which will help them earn money.

Rupa: I want you and your husband to domesticate and breed horses, cows, oxes and donkeys so we have enough of them for village and can trade them too.

Division of workforce
120 villagers are kept for farming
180 villagers are asked to perform building duties and deforestation to hurry up work and complete it before targetted time.
all soldiers have been pressed into construction activities so the construction work is boosted and their stamina is increased.

 

[Mantra]

Rome

Roleplay:
A dinner banquet will be held in honor of the arrival of Akecheta and Gregoras of Syracuse, there we shall discuss plans and current events. I am very interested in this 'Roman alliance' that Governor Augustus mentioned between his island and 'other Romans'. Also, I would like to get a good feel for both Akecheta and Gregoras and what they are like publically and privatly. If I can get them seperate, I'd like to know what each thinks of the other as well as what they think about their King.
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In appreciation for the fine evening and excellent treatment, I will purchace nearly a dozen pups from Maro's breeding camps and gift them all to Alcibe and her tribe.I would also like Maro to look over these scrolls taken from Takara's bagage. The poetry is unimportant, but what are these scrolls from Augustus and the latin notes she has?
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Arilias hugged Guennola close, keeping her near as they walked through their gardens at home. "I am overjoyed at this news, my wife. You are by far my greatest treasure here. Still, you should not concern yourself about my aquired aides. True they all seem to be women, but their purpose is not sexual. Still, I will respect your concerns and assign Takara to remain here as your maid."
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Some clarification for Primpilus: Yes the bulk of the garrison duties will be done by the Militia and Regulars, but since they all rotate on and off duty, they must be backed up by Legionares of the Home Guard. The amounts and locations of Legion troops are up to Primpilus's decisions. They will not be calssifies as '3rd Legion', as that would not be prudent. They are not a field Legion, but a defense force. Still, I shall grant permission to have the wolf emblems in it's Aquila and I shall classify it as the 1st Home Legion, AKA the Tuaha Guard. This Legion, although parts of it are scattered around the island, will be headquartered at Rentino.
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The Phonecians are welcome to set up shop, stay and trade, but it is not our policy to allow a foreign garrison to be built on our territory. They may hire or lease any structures they may need, or assist in building them and Rome will compensate them for costs, but they may not purchase land on a perminate basis.
Build:
In Valde Glorria, I will have new appartments and homes comissioned to take in the newest swell of workers and immigrants. Remember that all must register before they can live in my lands. Also, I am rather fond of the torii gates that are appearing in the Asian communities and will have them comission some to be built for the more impressive government structures like the tax offices, temples, barracks and theaters, but with a distinctive Roman motif instead of an Asian one.
Also, now that the ports and shipyards are operational in Torlouse, Have them start building the first Roman troop transport ships. As a special job, I have captured a number of Persian supply ships and even a few transports. In secret, start refitting these supply ships to carry troops without altering their outward appearance.
Send a team of engineers and workers to the joint island. Once there, see what needs to be build and in what condition any existing facilities are in. Augustus has let his city run down, so I don't doubt that any garrison or buildings on this island are in any better shape. Surveyors will also be sent to the island, how large is it and what resources might be found there?

Trade:
In Queen Batar's land, I would like to see if we can purchase land for and start growing our own cotton and indigo (dye) farms. In the meantime, those who wish to purchase camels for use down in that territory may do so, but they are still unsuitable for use in Palantine.
As far as the Mongols are concerned, I am not overly concerned with their conduct off island, the two junks for example, has nothng to do with us. However, if they wish to continue to do business with us, then they must at least pretend to be respectful of Roman laws. Fines will be implimented for such 'bad behavior' as well as pay for damages done. If they wish to feud and kill one another, do it outside my cities. I doubt threats would affect them at all, but hitting them in their pocketbooks might make them take notice. Also, if they start getting roudy in groups, then the guard with their dogs can 'escort' them a bit. Even a pack of Mongols would be more respectful with a couple of wolfhounds barking and snarling at them from the end of a Legionare's leash.I am also not concerned about sailing around Kashgar. The Mongol Khan is a member of our allliance and the other clans barter and trade with us, so they would be stupid to attack one of our ships, besides, what profit would their be in it other than testing their fighting prowess against an avenging Legion?
The city of Kiev is a new prospect, but is very far away at the moment and well beyond our circle of friends, but I agree that new markets cannot be ignored. Send the grain ship back along with some other foodstuffs and wines to sell to Duke Vakhtang. What do they have to trade and what do they want to trade for or buy?

Harvest:
Now that the harvests are in and the surplus has gone to market, my tax collectors will start wiht the anual census. They will count the populations to make sure that taxes and tributes are being paid. Also that all businesses and land owners are registered and that all communities are getting their propper support from the Republic.

Diplomacy:
On the home front:
Alas, poor Simon.....
Simon has at last provided a great service to the Republic, and I am grateful. By dying, he has given me two critical things; he has confirmed that there is a faction trying to overthrow me and second, he has given me the perfect excuse to break them completely.... The wanton murder of a Roman governor and his wife will not be tollerated! (although it will be widely publicized) Ammonanus will be charged with leading a group of soldiers into Homestead and the surrounding area. Privatly, he will meet with Frachoa's father and be asked if he 'suspects' anyone who might have been involved. He might have been siding with Simon and planning treason against me, but the same people just beat his daughter, the daughter of a Celtic chieftan, to death and left her in the street. Who do you think he's going to be loyal to now... These people will be arrested and all their property and assets siezed.
There is a trend I see that I want to correct, Rome assimilates other cultures into itself, it does not diversify and dilute into other cultures. I understand that this may take years, even generations, but it must start off slowly and be continuous. Since I control who settles where, immigrants will be suitably mixed when possible so as not to create any 'chinatowns' or the like. Latin will be the national language and while I will not forbid or discriminate against other cultures, languages, religions and the like, Roman life and ideology will be encouraged. The Mongols are a good example, they can still pretty much do what they want, but while they feud with each other, they do so with Roman equipment, trade at Roman ports, eat Roman food and pay Roman fees. In the meantime, refugees come flocking to my island and accept Roman rule.Many warriors have joined my auxillery cavalry and although they are rowdy and boisterous, they still must conform to Roman laws and ethics while working to become citizens. The exception will be those who have come to join in my Auxillery Cavalry. Roudy and high spirited they may be, but they have come to support the arms of Rome and work to become Citizens. If they act like savages, then they shall be disciplined or face expulsion form the Auxillery.
Egypt:
Auxis's request to recruit foreigners is denied. Not that he may not encourage other to join, but any potential recruits must come to Palantine and be trained to be a Legoinare on the Field of Mars. In addition, any recruits must be approved by Queen Batair before coming to train with me. This is crucial in order to keep unit cohesion, ideology and standards up to par. One cannot just grab a bunch of thugs with swords and call them a Legion of Rome. If Auxis needs more men, then we can send renforcements and replacements from the Academy.
Syracuse:
I do not have a problem with Citizens coming and going between our lands, but I do wish to minitor any large numbers of soldiers coming over. Also, with these minor nobles coming to buy up land, since I control all land sales and decide who goes where, I would like them dispersed amongst all my territiry if possible. Being citizens of Rome, they are entitled to buy land if they haven't any back on Syracuse. However, I do not want a small and rick minority making land grabs in my territories. In addition, any who settle here must swear alliance to me and pay any and all taxes. I am more inclined to favor the young, minor upper class who are trying to make a name for themselves rather than the rich, super elite who might have too many alliances to the old, backstabbing and immoral ways which brough Rome low.

Training:
The new Equestrian Legion is nearing completion, Actaeon will be recalled to take command and organize. The Legion will be equiped with the new saddles, horseshoes and armor and will train together in mock combat, drill, javalin throwing from horseback and discipline. Their performance will determine their position in the cohorts.
Elsewhere, as the Regulars form up and come together to do their patrols, they will be trained specifically in archery with their longbows and working together with the Legions.

Research:
All the craftsmen and smiths who have come over from Syracuse will be dispersed among my crafthalls. I want to learn from them and they will learn from us. Moreso, I want them to mix and blend with my people and help build a sense of unity.

Explore:
Arilias will personally ride out to the Academy and to the cartographer and mapmakers scribe rooms:
Arilias, flanked by two of his Centurians, practically kicked down the door of the master cartographer's office. He was nearly red faced with anger and had come directly from his own office of state. In one hand, he still held the crumpled note telling of a map nearing creation, but both hands were balled into fists, that is, until he slammed them down onto the cartographer's desk, glaring intently at the cowering man on the other side.
"You have a map which is nearly completed? A detailed map of our own island? Tell me master craftsman, we have had total control of this island for how long? Your guild has a great budget provided by the taxpayers of the Republic, you have had access to scores upon scores of maps, navigational charts, eyewittness accounts, tips and trade routs, the services of nearly two dozen translators and twice that number of scribes, not to mention the entire captured recordry of the merchant marines of Torlouse and you have had them all for over a years time and now, finally now, you almost have a detailed map of the very rock we first landed on ready for me. This is unacceptable! You have failed me, you have failed the people of Palantine, and you have failed the people of Rome!"
"I have been seeking resources to expand and strengthen our Republic, new lands to explore and most importantly, to find more Roman outposts. Yet I hear more and gather more information from foreign captains and drunken merchants than from my own Academy! If you cannot organize and lead this crafthall, then I shall find one who can."
His glare only hardened as his voice returned to normal, but delivered his verdict with iron finality. "You are dismissed from my service." Almost on cue, another of his legoinares brought in another man. "You are the Executive of this crafthall? "Arilias asked, turning to addredd the newcommer. The man only nodded in confirmation. "Then you are now the CraftMaster. You have one season to produce better results than this fool, or I shall replace you as well."

Spy:
Euphorbus and his 5th column will again spread out and start working the rumor mill. They will begin spreading the rumors that the Carthaginians are planning to sieze land from the Persians while they are occupied with the Romans...or that the Persians are seeking to raid the Carthaginians for more resources to fuel their ambitions. That both sides have hired Hun mercanaries and the like. These rumors will be retold especially in foreign ports and bars.The idea is to cause tension between the Carthaginians and the Persians, if not outright hostilities.

War:
In Queen Batar's land, my forces will finish off the resistance to Batar's rule.The Persian prisoners will also be interrogated to see if there is any plan against us or against Queen Batar.
Also, a group of my Legions will take the reconfigured trap ships and disguise themselves in captured Persian armor and uniforms. From Queen Batar's land, the Persian flagged trap ships will sail around between the Persian and Carthaginian lands, letting themselves be 'captured' then the soldiers spring out and trash the Carthaginian ships and their crews. At night, they will also land and raid the Carthaginian coast, hitting small, soft targets and running. Meanwhile, I will hire the Hun raiders that have recently come to my lands and pay them with foreign gold. They will be shipped around to the same areas and my trap ships and during the night, set ashore on one of the Persian islands. From there, the Huns can do what they do best. As a reward, they can have whatever they can plunder from their raids.
Lastly, Draga and his Vikings will be encouraged to continue their raids on Persian shipping on our side of the sea lanes, far away from the other actions. I do not want them to be seen as the same operation. Hopefully, we can sting the Persians and draw them into a conflict with the Carthaginians...or at least force both sides to divert forces to watch each other instead of me.

 

[Jagged]

Russia retaken.......for now. We enter fall

War should be the only study of a prince. He should consider peace only as a
breathing-time, which gives him leisure to contrive, and furnishes as
ability to execute, military plans.- Niccolo Machiavelli


Diplomacy

Vikings

From passing merchants you hear of the progress of your Viking allies who are harassing Asian commerce. What is known is that to the North of their current hunting area is a Roman held island. The Roman leader their is very open to Viking trade and does not question the sources of trade goods. These Romans have the potential to be great trade partners even if they are at a great distance. They do however trade with the Mongols and other Asians nearby.


Father Akim

You receive a letter written by the hand of an old friend. He talks of friendship and politics and after talking about everything from the first time he kissed you as a boy to how much your letters meant while he was training as a priest he gets down to business. The gates are open to you in his part of the city and he will turn over all his forces to your countrol. He will take the job you are offering and tells you he plans to leave the priesthood before he does. You have gained an ally and found a friend again. Vanya smiles at you as you read the letter in the cottage by the fire. She smiles at you and says, "such a kind boy who cared for you he never fit in a court. He always believed that nobles had their position to protect those who they ruled. " She giggles, "I remember you and your sister both kissed him one day and started fighting in the stables. You mother was so angry, but laughed about it later."

Count Roderick

The count sends his mistress Danika was once one of his familie's maids with her four children to your camp. While her children play in field with children who have come with prostitutes or visiting their soldier fathers you sit for tea. She speaks to you and brings you a scroll from her lover. She weeps as she tells you that he has agreed to your offer and says that the children will remain in your court as hostages. Though they are bastards they are all heirs. She sighs as she walks back to the carriage. It seems the old plotter is at least willing to agree to your terms.....but for how long?

Captain Evard

The Captian holds out through the summer in the well supplied Kremlin which your forces now surround. Troops and siege engines don't seem to move this captain as the hot summer drags on into fall. The captain replies to your requests with a counter offer of save passage to another country. In exchange they will march to the harbor with all those in their force and the slaves that were left behind. There are all kinds of rumors flying around about the situation inside the Kremlin and you are reminded by spies their are secret passages that lead into the fortress.

Sir Rurik

Sir Rurik promises you that princess Yakov will be watched constantly and local nuns who are experienced as midwives see to her care and say her baby will come in early fall. The princess is angry most of the time and has written you demanding that you allow her to marry Misha and move to his families estate. Prince Misha is a young prince who lives near Minsk who you have not seen since your he visited you and your sister as a boy. He is related to you on your mother's side. He comes to visit you camp and he is not more then a day over 18...He tells you over a private meal that he had a brief trist with here that lasted but a few weeks and was only physical. Though he admitts he may have lied and said that he loved her at some point.

Kalman and the troops under his command march all over the island..... retoring lands to those who are the rightful heirs. Though land is important it does little to replace loved ones that were killed by Black Vlad. Still though peole are grateful and order is being restored throughout the island. Black monks are captured or killed outright. Motya the boy you who always saw that you had flowers on your birthday regardless of whether his family was in court or not seems to not think your actions are enough. While his younger sister works to rebuild the family home (she was at university when their parents were killed and home destroyed) he wonders the island killing. Vlad's henchmen, Monks, friends, and even those who did business with him fear this mad young knight. The are found hanging from trees, throats cut in their beds when their wives awake, and some are even put on pikes. Little is known about him and those trying to keep order can say he only stops long enough to care for his horse and rearm and eat. Nobody has heard of him sleeping. Vanya remembers this boy as well. "He was always a honorable knight. He never fought for anything but honor. He found duals a waist of a man's life. You remember he was the boy who saved you and your sister's cat from the river when she fell off the foot bridge. He nearly drown. He has changed" You hear her cry later during prayers.

Mercenaries


The Athenians with their long impressive pikes easily defeat all those who oppose them in battle. Horses crash into pike walls and bandits can't even get close enough to strike a blow. The phalanx is powerful and few have ever seen it before in battle. Kalman towards the end of his "aggressive patrol" as he calls it sends most of the 4000 on to Minsk to join the garrision there and help secure that port city.

The site of the Spartans angrly banging their shields and screaming insults at the Kremlin is almost to much for the garrison. Though there is no official surrender many try to escape the fortress within the city. The Spartans are merciless in the treatment in those who try to run from battle. Soon the Spartans are displaying the heads of those who ran on pikes infront of the fortress. Some Spartans even take it on themselves to brake down a small garden gate and storm the courtyard. Heavy casusalties are taken on both sides before the Spartans withdraw from the small courtyard. It seems the captain is in no place to demand anything from you...

The barbaric Caledonians take the assignment. After some negotiations for transport and tools the Picts are on their way to raid Byzantium lands. They land near some small vilages on the coast far from the capital of Constantinople where the bulk of the army is stationed. They attack brutally and raid the villages burning them to the ground and looting them of all they can use. They also build a small fortress and begin enforcing it as they send out word for other's of their tribe to join them in battle. Though most of the main group is content to enjoy their plunder around their fort many raid in small groups and are now taking on the Byzantium/Roman troops. You have bought at least some time.

War

Your siege of Moscovy goes well and only the "royal district" is not under your control. The Kremlin is now surrounded and the Spartans are looking for a fight. The other factions leaders are now on your side for at least the time being. This warrior fanatics watch the fortress by day and hunt spies at night. Many say they think slavic women would make fine breeding stock and wish for permission to marry.

The policy of only doing business with those loyal to you soon brings all merchants over to your side. It simply isn't good business to deal with Vlad's henchmen. Soon they have no place to drink volka, buy food, or even buy food for their animals.

Build

With the city not yet completely under you control and the country still being put back in order your grand plans are just in the planning stage. You look at the drawings in your new headquarters down the road from the Kremlin in the city. It was once the residence of a foreign merhcant it is very much a step up from the cottage you have been living in for the past months. The new plans for the city are very impressive and church and civic leaders like that you made plans for the Cathedral and Hospital. Though you have not laid one brick you are making progress. Your people are very much behind you in the new city and country you wish to found.

Research

The research done by your native shipbuilders and the Vikings goes well and soon you receive several working models of the new design. The new ships will be true sea going ships and could possibly be the largest cargo ships ever built. The new design called a Caravel which holds over 100 of cargo and has three masts. This is a great advancement which could change maritime trade and exploration.


Local fishermen in three large boats soon find the beast that attacked the ship during the summer months. The beast is large and eating a massive amount of fish so the fishermen near Kiev were very concern. So they began searching for the monster. They stab at it with harpoons until it comes to the surface and then go after it with knives, axes and boat hooks. After many hours of epic battle the fishermen kill the beast though several of their own die in the process. The beast is huge and they barely drag it back to the shore. The beast is dead but is cost yet more lives. Villagers continue to watch the sea.

Roleplay

In your new headquarters in Moscovy you sit back and relax on a soft bed that belongs to the daughter of the merchant who fled during the civil war because of his loyaltyto your family. The Kremilin's master armour who long since left Vlad's court has built you a suit of imperial armor ususally only made for princes of the Czar is made for your use. Now you have an impressive looking suit of armor with the Russian eagle on the best plate in gold.

Your sister is overjoyed at the letter and promises to be loyal to you and always serve you with her new rank and title. She sends you a drawing of her new son and asks what name you would chose for their new bundle of joy. She says once the baby is strong enough for travel and since all on the estate is your's she has little to move.

Academy of the Arts is an excellant idea and you have already received drawings for a possible campus. Those nobles you to speak with think it is a good idea and will send their women there to study.

The paints that are all slightly different go out to many noble houses. Those who do not have a son at the age of marriage write you thanking you for the painting while others say they will send their sons to court once the capital is totally under your control. You will soon have your choice of all the eligible princes in your lands. Do you search beyond?


Tabia's husband returns and though they do spend time morning together and in prayer they are seen out again. Wishes to know if you would like her to join you in Moscovy. For now though she is happy in her husband's arms and is greatful to you for your intervention on her behalf. Her husband's vessel is being refitted in Kiev and will remain there for several months.

 

[Elayne]

Diplomacy

Katarinya hears the demands of the Captain Evard for safe passage and decides she cannot accept. "I will not permit him to take my people as slaves, nor to flee my jurisdiction to raise mischief against me. If he will not surrender and join me, then he shall recieve no quarter."

On the other hand, the news of the Romans sounds promising. Katarinya sends a small missive written in her own hand to the Romans, a greetings and an invitation to begin trade. She sends it with one of her most trusted merchant factors, instructing him to form a trade agreement with the Romans.

War

After sending out her diplomatic dispatches, Katarinya summons Laurentijj. "Evard will not see reason and his demands have exhausted whatever mercy I was prepared to extend."

Katarinya sits with Laurentijj and draws up a plan. The Spartans will begin an assault on the Kremlin's walls. While they have Evard's garrison occupied, Laurentijj will lead a detachment of troops through the underground escape tunnels and into the Kremlin, where they will take Evard's men by surprise and hopefully open a gate for the Spartans.

No quarter is to be asked or given for the last of Vlad's troops.

Build

Noting Kalman's successes, Katarinya sends him a note. "Kalman, once you have the island sufficiently pacified, take your troops to Minsk. The Athenians may settle there. Further, you have my permission to erect a grove to Freya in honor of all the Vikings have done for me, raising a long hall of your own to govern the barony."

Trade

Katarinya begins discretely encouraging the pagans of the island to move to the Minsk barony, offering them tax cuts and settling grants as incentive to relocate.

Research

Katarinya begins encouraging the artists of the realm to gather in Moscovy, in preparation for the launch of her Imperial Academy of the Arts. She begins picking out the most talented and charismatic to act as the tenured staff.

Roleplay

Hearing the actions of the Mad Knight, Katarinya decides to temporarily overlook the affair, so long as her friend preys only on the former followers of Vlad. Secretly, she fears that he'll go to far and force her hand.

Katarinya writes to Tabia's husband, "It is too late in the season for travel. Tabia should remain with you till spring at least, while you winter and dock your ships for repairs."

After hearing about the triumphant fishermen, Katarinya sends them a reward in gold for their valour.

After reviewing the list of potential local suitors, Katarinya authorizes Vanya to approach promising foreigners from the nearby islands; the Viking Chieftain, the Crusader Lord, and the Muslim Sultan amongst others.

 

[Jagged]

Indian Princess

Background


Your appointments are generally well received by the village as a whole. Some grumble that they could do the jobs better, but little has actually change and you picked good canidates for the job. You hear from many since your return and all have problems of all kinds. If families weren't depleted by the plague their live stock died off because of diease. There is just enough food for the village and even your own family farm is in rough shape though it has plenty of supplies. It will take a lot of work to survive, but at least you have a plan. Everyone is busy with some respect of village improvement or self improvement.

Finance

You declare.... the tax rate in our village will be 30% for traders and 20% for villagers from today on seeing his reaction she answers trust me Ramesh ji.

Everyone is happy to hear that they will be paying less when you collect taxes and even leads to a handful of people moving into the village from outlying areas. Trades find it profitable to go to your village so commerce has increases as a result. Problem is that your villagers have little to spare so trade can only grow so much right now.


Military

In the military when not training your troops have many boring projects to complete, but with your idea about cross training your troops it is back to drilling which is well liked. You see the swordmen miss the target many times with the bow before they begin hitting the center of the target. The bowmen also have difficulty with weilding the sword but they soon are at least adequate with these new weapons. In time though they will master them as well as their own. The problem now lies not with the training but with having enough weapons. Many share or use wooden training weapons. You will not have such options in battle.


Captain Haidar mentions to you one day after the daily meeting that he has found out from one of his contracts that right now at the Muslim village there are countless heads of cattle and sheep taken during raids. The heards are always large because they are often left unattend and swell in size. Perhaps this would solve some problems?

Building

Sanjeev Raj ji forms a work crew every morning in the center of the village until every building is repaired. This is a great help to the families who do not have anyone to do the work. Soon things are at least looking better. Your master builder also hands plans for a stone wall but tells you it will take many men and a lot of rock to build. Your troops detached from training though are a great help with work on the dock and the tavern. The tavern begins to stock spirits and hire staff to serve those who will visit the town.

Weapons&Equipment

Rohan and Sunil begin work and labor for many days and nights before return with an improved bow. It is very powerful and your best archer demonstrates it by firing an arrow through a log at double the length of the old hunting bows. This is truly a warrior weapon. It is more costly but seems well worth it. They examine your blade and soon are making stronger blades but still not up to the standard set around the island.

A Hebrew merchant heard about you in the capital and formed as small wagon train and soon arrives in your village with wares to sell. Ager makes a gift you Zulu short spear meant to deal fast killing blows and a hide shield as gift to his host. He has many military items to sell only with other items. The highlights of the inventory includes Greek swords and shields, German Saddles, Indian scimitars, and Viking round shields. Ager is a tall man and boasts of many adventures including taking part in the defence of the great city of Jerusalem, learning navigation from the Vikings and trading on over 50 islands. An interesting man even if his stories are not true. Though within a week of his visit he seems to know everyone, has hunted and killed a tiger thought to be responisble for the death of several cows, and charmed all ladies and befriended all the men.

Diplomacy

Ram travels to the other coast and secretly meets with many who are practically slaves to the Iberians. Many now know they can have a fresh start and are free if they make it back to your village. Some leave immediately while others gather what they need for the long three week journey. On the way back Ram has a miserable time of it battle a Iberian patrol and escapes only after the death of one of horsemen. While journeying into the interior he only finds skulls on pikes as warning not to enter Chandi's realm. He knows they were watched the whole time as well. Though wounded and tired he does have at least a general map of the area.

Sanjay travels to the North of the island and meet with many Nepalese tribes men. These warriors have a brutal code and are honorable. For many the life in the mountains is rough and will a promise of land and jobs as soldiers many journey to your village soon 100 families arrive your village with little beyond the clothes on their backs and their weapons.

Hari arrives safely in Mumbai and presents your gift to Ravikantji who happily promises to visit your village before the calender year ends. So happy for this news Hari sends the 4 riders back with the message while he remains in the city exploring, learning, and buying. You do not hear back from him for many more weeks even though the date he was supposed to leave has long since passed. Then the word comes to you from a local farmer who has a cousin in the great city. Hari and the remaining members of the party were ambushed and struggles along side the road in their camp. Members of the cult dedicated to Kali are suspected by the city guard.

Health

Anilji spends weeks in the woods and mountains and experimenting with herbs to help women become pregnant. She soon finds something she thinks will work and soon reports a month later she is pregnant but also a friend of her's who is 40 years old. It seems the potion is the real deal.

A medicine for the plague is not as easy and all the can be suggested is that when someone shows signs isolate them so it can't spread. I may be brutal but it is the only way. It is also proposed that those survived the plague who have children with other survives will cut the chances down of the plague infecting future generations.

Religion

Krishna ji begins the month of pray and reflection. Also while they pray people can aid in the construction of the chapel. Every day someone visits prays and does alittle work. The progress is slow but there is a great feeling of community among the people now.


Villager Training.

Sevti sets about teaching classes for all those who want learn. Many do well and are happy to have yet another skill. Even if these crafts do not sell well every villager now has good furniture to fill their homes. All are eager to learn more crafts for their homes.

Rupa and her husband begin to build the herds of animals. Though first animals born are more robust then before and are healthy, but it will take awhile for herds to grow large and strong.

 

[sonali00783]

It was a long time since we had the meeting and I was overlooking the work done in our village. The work was going fine but I wished it coulb go faster.
I decided it is a long time and we should all meet again firstly all ministers the conclusions of meeting would then be told among the villagers.

Finally the time of meeting arrives.


Bhomik Das addresses the Meeting

We start with finances

Rameshji stands and takes out his report-
"Though the taxes were reduced drastically the finances have not detoriated infact with more trading happening and more traders and villagers reaching our village to settle in the incoming finances have increased 25% and our treasury is swelling. The reports i am getting are that more peoples are flocking towards our village."
"I am pleased with the finance position atleast for now and am pleasently surprised, that the move of reducing taxes actually worked" forgive me looking at me he continues "which i thought would be a disasterous move however with increased trading we now need more trading posts and warehouses and more commodities to be made locally so we could gain more from the tax reduction we have done"

Finally his report was over
"Well thank you for letting us know that we are in better financial health now because i wanted to purchase some weapons and horses for army and we hope the position will get better with every passing day"

MIlitary
"Now Captain Haidar please present your reports" Bhomik Das speaks

At this Captain Haidar starts off
"The soldiers have taken in to their new regime very well, now sworbsmen are hitting targets much better with Bow and arrow and our archers are able to fight with the swords but they find them too heavy i think i will put them on heavy labour work so their strength improves" "Also the new bow developed is great and i hope by end of this month we will have everyone equiped with new bows ,even swordsmen"
He continues "I wish if we could have better swords like those that the Hebrew merchant Ager had they are good and I like those spears and shields too" He see towards Sunil and Rohan and asks "can we have weapons better than those or atleast equivalent to those?"

He adds "I am happy that we will be soon having more Horses and weapons purchased, Also I would like to ask my queen that those Nepalese villagers migrating to our vilage are good warriors can I recruit a few of them and they will be willing to work at a lower rate?"

I reply "Captain Heather I have been watching your Troops and they are certainly getting better and better I am impressed at all of your efforts I say pointing at your four deputies Sohan singh , Ravinder Kumar, Jitender and Vijay and you, Yes it would be a good idea for archers to do some heavy work it will improve their strength, Also I have decided to buy the entire stock of weapons of this merchant "
"Capt Haidar i was impressed by the spears and wish if possible i would like a troop of soldiers to be trained with those"
"Now these Nepalese are good warriors recruit as many as possible and try to learn from them and train them too and pay them equal salries not less because now they too are citizens of this village and we want more of them to come"

"And yes you told me about cattle heards yesterday try to get as many as possible"

Build
Now your turn Sanjeev Rajji-
"As per your orders all builduings are repaired and the dock and Tavern are ready"
" Stone wall will need plenty of stone but we have managed to locate 4 big quaries with stone trouble is how to get it quickly here?"
"I have a idea" Ravikant ji told me once that everything weights less in water and it is easy to move it and on slippery surface it is easy to move objects"
"so if create a small pit upto the construction site and make the floor slippery and fill it with water i am sure the stone will travel fast enough"
"I would like you to construct plenty of houses, warehouses, trading posts, and workshops in the village so more families can come and live and have place to work also ask all migrants to cut trees nearest to the village and start farming on the land inside the ring of trees, also i would like you to cut more trees quickly so we can use the wood for building a lot of boats"

Weapons and equipment


"We have developed a better bowand have given you a demonstration, but soon enough you will have something to smile about again we have improved it and we hope the range and power of impact will improve"
"As far as the weapons brought by the merchant are concerned and we have seen your blade too we have found the solution and will soon be making better blades and shields" "As you assumed it was the mixture of metal that was the reason we have found all the metals in village surroundings and are wielding a better blade you will have it by the end of this week" "We request you to provide us with 20 villagers so we can bring the material for this weapons quickly" "Also we have a surprise for you which we will show you after the end of the meeting"

Diplomacy

Ram and Sanjay
They bow down and hand me over the maps
"We have completed our tasks and await new orders" "More villagers will be arriving in our village shortly the small villages have all welcomed our friendship and promised to help the villagers coming to our village" "A lot of them are afraid of Kali Cult and Chandi and are even ready in forging Alliance with us"
"I see both of you have encouraging news we are ready to ally with as many villages as possible and those who wish to do so"

"I am worried about Hari and his men try to see if the village there are ready to help them or atleast pass a massage to them to flee back here send birds to carry this message now"

Health

Anilji reports
"I have passed in my efforts to create a potion that will increase the fertility of women and will help her in concieving I have also developed a potion for men to improve their chances of impregnating the women but i am testing it"
"As far as medicine for plague in concerned i am still not able to find it but i am still working on it"

"Good" I reply "I have heard about that potion please make sure all women take it so we have plenty of kids around" "and does it work on animals too i wish to have plenty of horses you see"
He replies "I will try it on them"

Religion

Krishna ji says that the month long prayer is over and the goddess is happy.
But he asks if we could pray to goddess of fertility so the women and land are more fertile to which i readily agree. this time i ask Ram and Sanjay to send invitation to all the Village heads of the friendly village who wish to forge alliance with us as they will know that they will benefit a lot my having alliances with us.

Others
Rupa - You have done a great job continue with the breeding we need plenty of those and yes we cantrade the Cows and Buffalowes to generate money.
Sevti- you have trained this ladies well but still the goods are not good enought o trade make them work harder so we have goods enough to trade

Sampatji- I know you have found areas where we can find iron, copper and other areas and you have also marked good agricultural land.But i dont understand what is this in the mountains you have marked, to which he replies you will know now my queen.

Soon the meeting was over Ram and Sanjay took us to the training area and asked the soldier to take a arrow and hit it in the area but before firing i dont know how he lit the tip of arrow with fire and as soon as the arrow touched the ground there was fire all around which they put off by using water. They then turned towards me and smilled.
Sampatji asked us to use it he has found 3 points from where we will get this liquid and we suppose we can use it well to defend ourselves

 

[Tonofnoise]

Popping his head out of the mess called life.

The Big Day

The plans Tufa and this future wife, Florentina had sent in motion many moons ago finally has reached it’s apex. The Temple of Pyerun is covered in fresh pick flowers like jasmine, daisy’s, and roses. Hundreds of Chiefs, merchants, villagers, foreign allies all surround the temple grounds all the way up into the inner rooms where Tufa & Florentina perform the ritual hand handfasting uniting their family. After the tears and congratulations Tufa & his now wife ventured outside the temple walls to the cheers of the people waiting outside to see the new couple. The couple waved & smiled as flower peddles & sunflower seeds were thrown on the ground before them. Florentina leaned over and whispered, “My love it would be best for you to address the people for they came to see you.” “No my love. It is us they came to see,” Tufa replied before leaning forwarded and greeting his wife with a very public embrace as the roar of the crowd grown in waves. After the couple opened their they turned & Tufa raised his hands to address the crowd. “Thank you all for showing your support for our marriage. Our hope that this marriage will be but another symbol of how our village has grown & strengthen. My father once said there are three skills you must learn to be a great man. You must learn to listen, support, and to protect. If you can master those skills a great leader, husband, and father you will be and my wife will a test to I hope be a wise scholar by the time I meet my father again. And I hope that all of you will help me be the great scholar.”
Arm in arm the couple walked through town. The sounds of people talking, cheering, even playing pipes, and banging on drums just added to the since the couple had. The feeling like Dievis, supreme creator of all the Gods had scooped up the couple and placed them back with in a bubble. Up onto the Munthas front porch they walked stopping at the front door. Florentina stepped a step forward, “ Thank you all for taking this walk with us. We hope to see you all tonight back at the temple for the celebration.” The couple waved goodbye to the people outside before Tufa picked up Florentina and while staring into her eyes crossed into their house to consummate their marriage.
The celebration was a unity of native Visigoths, Romans, Chinese, Zulus, Mahaks, and other foreign merchants that attended the celebrations. The couple spent half the night apart. Florentina handled the greetings of the different guest, family friends, and villagers from neighboring towns. While Tufa sat & spoke with the Elders, important merchants, and diplomats such as Legatus Legionis Anguisrs and Arminia.

Diplomacy:
During the wedding Tufa makes arrangement to speak with the stranger Arminia about her master Arilias and to Legatus Legionis Anguisrs about the rumors that new Romans are being brought in on the eastern side of the island and to gather information about Arilias.
Another meeting is set with the commanding officers Saphrax, Roderick and Recared after Tufa’s meetings with Arminia & Legatus concerning a possible Roman threat.

Spying:
A meeting is to be set up with the Elders & Saphrax, Roderick and Recared regard possible sending a unit to the Eastern wall to investigate. In addition possibly keeping a guard on watch Arminia and her consorts.
Reports:
Reports from Visen & Tirana are requested along with a court to be held with their elders as to out looks for the up coming season.
Exploring:
The request shall be made for another part to be assembled to find another source of valuable metals.
For Hire:
A letter will be posted for members to form a miner’s guild, shipbuilder’s guild, and merchant’s guild. This will hopefully increase economy.
In addition workers are needed, carpenters, wood cutters, ship builders, sailors, and trappers. Also engineers are needs with designs for ballistas.
Building:
Near the water line at the south end of the town and north of the port designs for 2 watch towers both 14 men high (84 feet) with signal lanterns.