Absalom
Guest
Deus Vult! Lol, what self respecting sultan would let people call him "the Fat?"
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Completed It's God's Will! Let's rule as the Imperium Romaniae!
- Thread starter RK47
- Start date
Heroes of Antioch
The withdrawal of the Latin army means the defenders of Antioch no longer have the numbers to beat back the Ayyubids.
Will the Georgians be able to hold back the incoming tides of the infidels while the Latins face off against the Seljuks to the north?
The pitched battle between Rum and Latin has only begun, multiple battles stretching across its mountainous territories.
It would seem that the Seljuks is already beaten in the initial skirmish but surrender would not come easy from the Sultan.
But there is very little time for celebration as Antioch is now beset with more enemies than before.
As a larger force lay siege upon the Seljuk fortress, a smaller one split off to assist the Georgians in holding off the 16,000 strong Ayyubids army.
Will we succeed in beating off these infidels?
Alas, God was not with us on that day. Thousands of men perished in the battle of Portella.
Yet the Seljuks grew weaker...
Is everything lost in Antioch?
In Constantinople, the troubled Emperor ponders his next move. Would he bet everything to save Antioch from the infidels? But what if the Byzantines attack now? A messenger arrives to his throne room...
This is just what he needs! An Alliance with Hungary will safeguard Latin Empire from Byzantine attacks. For is it not the husband of the Basilissa the king of Hungary as well?
Upon checking, the Emperor realized that Eirene's vengeance upon his brother, Baldwin, transcends all common sense, she gave up her throne to Arpad's name to secure victory. The future Basileus of Byzantine will no longer be Greek. But that is no concern of his, with this alliance, he felt confidence in committing fully into the saving of Antioch.
More mercenary bands were hired - and fleet raised to sail them across the seas.
As 10,000 strong mercenaries arrive on Beirut, they will await further reinforcements from the Seljuk campaign.
Confident with their numbers, the mercs charge onwards to break the siege of Boutron.
VICTORY! The Sultan of Seljuks surrendered and paid compensation - the exalted Latin army marches proudly back to Antioch where their brothers in faith awaits rescue!
Victory awaits them in Boutron!
Having driven the infidels away from Boutron, the Latin Crusaders march on towards a decisive battle in Tortosa.
Victory to the virtuous! The faithful shall never surrender!
Purge the Infidel from the Holy Lands!
As things beginning to swing towards the defenders of Antioch - the Ayyubids musters another 29,000 men to the shock of the defenders.
Where are they getting all these reinforcements?! The 4000-strong Crusaders laying siege to Akkar were caught off-guard and is unable to escape.
The outnumbered Crusaders were completely wiped out.
It is 8 years after the start of the war for Antioch, there does not seem to be an end..
The Latin Emperor refuses to give Antioch up, he musters more mercenaries and levies into the war.
As a 20,000 strong infidel army renews the siege on Antioch, fresh troops both merc and levies arrive from Constantinople.
Beirut - another clash between the Crusaders and the dreaded infidels.
Flee, demon worshippers!
As the Crusaders gave chase on the fleeing 10,000 army, they were horrified to discover another 17,000 strong army is approaching from the south. The victory at Ba'albek must be postponed.
The retreat was shameful, but our army's utter destruction is more horrifying to contemplate.
When will this war end?
The withdrawal of the Latin army means the defenders of Antioch no longer have the numbers to beat back the Ayyubids.
Will the Georgians be able to hold back the incoming tides of the infidels while the Latins face off against the Seljuks to the north?
The pitched battle between Rum and Latin has only begun, multiple battles stretching across its mountainous territories.
It would seem that the Seljuks is already beaten in the initial skirmish but surrender would not come easy from the Sultan.
But there is very little time for celebration as Antioch is now beset with more enemies than before.
As a larger force lay siege upon the Seljuk fortress, a smaller one split off to assist the Georgians in holding off the 16,000 strong Ayyubids army.
Will we succeed in beating off these infidels?
Alas, God was not with us on that day. Thousands of men perished in the battle of Portella.
Yet the Seljuks grew weaker...
Is everything lost in Antioch?
In Constantinople, the troubled Emperor ponders his next move. Would he bet everything to save Antioch from the infidels? But what if the Byzantines attack now? A messenger arrives to his throne room...
This is just what he needs! An Alliance with Hungary will safeguard Latin Empire from Byzantine attacks. For is it not the husband of the Basilissa the king of Hungary as well?
Upon checking, the Emperor realized that Eirene's vengeance upon his brother, Baldwin, transcends all common sense, she gave up her throne to Arpad's name to secure victory. The future Basileus of Byzantine will no longer be Greek. But that is no concern of his, with this alliance, he felt confidence in committing fully into the saving of Antioch.
More mercenary bands were hired - and fleet raised to sail them across the seas.
As 10,000 strong mercenaries arrive on Beirut, they will await further reinforcements from the Seljuk campaign.
Confident with their numbers, the mercs charge onwards to break the siege of Boutron.
VICTORY! The Sultan of Seljuks surrendered and paid compensation - the exalted Latin army marches proudly back to Antioch where their brothers in faith awaits rescue!
Victory awaits them in Boutron!
Having driven the infidels away from Boutron, the Latin Crusaders march on towards a decisive battle in Tortosa.
Victory to the virtuous! The faithful shall never surrender!
Purge the Infidel from the Holy Lands!
As things beginning to swing towards the defenders of Antioch - the Ayyubids musters another 29,000 men to the shock of the defenders.
Where are they getting all these reinforcements?! The 4000-strong Crusaders laying siege to Akkar were caught off-guard and is unable to escape.
The outnumbered Crusaders were completely wiped out.
It is 8 years after the start of the war for Antioch, there does not seem to be an end..
The Latin Emperor refuses to give Antioch up, he musters more mercenaries and levies into the war.
As a 20,000 strong infidel army renews the siege on Antioch, fresh troops both merc and levies arrive from Constantinople.
Beirut - another clash between the Crusaders and the dreaded infidels.
Flee, demon worshippers!
As the Crusaders gave chase on the fleeing 10,000 army, they were horrified to discover another 17,000 strong army is approaching from the south. The victory at Ba'albek must be postponed.
The retreat was shameful, but our army's utter destruction is more horrifying to contemplate.
When will this war end?
Tigranes
Arcane
- Joined
- Jan 8, 2009
- Messages
- 10,350
Yeah, Levant wars are terrible - between backwater levies, mercs and jihads they have waves upon waves of doomstacks you have to fight off. Historical, I guess, but for exactly taht historical reason you might be better off surrendering Antioch, and actually focusing on Rum. Squeeze those Byzantines out.
Arise, Antioch!
The Latins refused to back down, digging deep into the treasury of Constantinople, more mercs were brought to Antioch.
The Latins last stand in Beirut were bolstered by the arrival of the Pechenegs.
The Emperor, not satisfied, hired the Company of the Roses to put to rest any doubt on the outcome of this Holy War.
The Crusaders of Latin Empire will never surrender Antioch! As the faithfuls pushed the infidels back from the shores of Beirut - a Prince was captured and ransomed off...
The arrival of the mercenaries restored parity in numbers, yet the Ayyubids human wave seems endless, as thousands were crushed - another ten thousands rose from the desert and marched towards Antioch.
But that will not make our cause falter for God is on our side!
Alas, not even zeal and fury can overcome the sheer exhaustion of the mind and body.
Once again, the Defenders of Antioch makes a desperate stand.
Bloodlust nearly overcame the Emperor, but his piousness held firm.
He grew stronger still.
Once again, the Crusaders makes a last stand on the shores of Beirut, as they await reinforcements from Constantinople.
We held firm against all odds.
As additional mercenaries advance, the defense of Antioch begins once more.
The Latin army lay siege to free territories held by the Ayyubids within Antioch.
More battles were fought, and the infidels were slaughtered like the demons they were.
Resistance is futile.
Eventually, the Ayyubids has had enough, nearly a decade of Holy War has passed, and both sides have exhausted each other without any meaningful gains.
A white peace was declared, to the joy of the Latins, especially the Emperor.
The festive mood infected Constantinople, as another of his daughter is betrothed to House Arpad, tightening the Hungary-Latin alliance further.
And there is the matter of his only son, Prince Shepard of Constantinople.
A zealous man of many skills, Shepard is the only male successor to the aging Henri. He deserves nothing but the best.
A third royal marriage between Hungary and Latin empire followed.
As the victorious Latin army make preparations to leave Antioch, the Emperor was interrupted by troubling news.
Duke Raimond, tainted the Holy victory by following a heretical teaching of the Waldensian ways.
This atrocity will not stand.
"TURN THE SHIP AROUND!" announces the Emperor, "Tonight, we free Antioch once more!" the weary men returns to battle once more.
It was to be the Emperor's last order before he ascended to Our Father in Heaven.
All hail, Emperor-Commander Shepard of Constantinople, the Master of Extreme and Kicker of Asses.
The Latins refused to back down, digging deep into the treasury of Constantinople, more mercs were brought to Antioch.
The Latins last stand in Beirut were bolstered by the arrival of the Pechenegs.
The Emperor, not satisfied, hired the Company of the Roses to put to rest any doubt on the outcome of this Holy War.
The Crusaders of Latin Empire will never surrender Antioch! As the faithfuls pushed the infidels back from the shores of Beirut - a Prince was captured and ransomed off...
The arrival of the mercenaries restored parity in numbers, yet the Ayyubids human wave seems endless, as thousands were crushed - another ten thousands rose from the desert and marched towards Antioch.
But that will not make our cause falter for God is on our side!
Alas, not even zeal and fury can overcome the sheer exhaustion of the mind and body.
Once again, the Defenders of Antioch makes a desperate stand.
Bloodlust nearly overcame the Emperor, but his piousness held firm.
He grew stronger still.
Once again, the Crusaders makes a last stand on the shores of Beirut, as they await reinforcements from Constantinople.
We held firm against all odds.
As additional mercenaries advance, the defense of Antioch begins once more.
The Latin army lay siege to free territories held by the Ayyubids within Antioch.
More battles were fought, and the infidels were slaughtered like the demons they were.
Resistance is futile.
Eventually, the Ayyubids has had enough, nearly a decade of Holy War has passed, and both sides have exhausted each other without any meaningful gains.
A white peace was declared, to the joy of the Latins, especially the Emperor.
The festive mood infected Constantinople, as another of his daughter is betrothed to House Arpad, tightening the Hungary-Latin alliance further.
And there is the matter of his only son, Prince Shepard of Constantinople.
A zealous man of many skills, Shepard is the only male successor to the aging Henri. He deserves nothing but the best.
A third royal marriage between Hungary and Latin empire followed.
As the victorious Latin army make preparations to leave Antioch, the Emperor was interrupted by troubling news.
Duke Raimond, tainted the Holy victory by following a heretical teaching of the Waldensian ways.
This atrocity will not stand.
"TURN THE SHIP AROUND!" announces the Emperor, "Tonight, we free Antioch once more!" the weary men returns to battle once more.
It was to be the Emperor's last order before he ascended to Our Father in Heaven.
All hail, Emperor-Commander Shepard of Constantinople, the Master of Extreme and Kicker of Asses.
We bang, OK?
No sooner Shepard takes the throne, a few of his 'new family members' begs him for assistance.
There is nothing to gain from this, I don't see why I should meddle with Hungary's succession. FYI, it's his own brother he's deposing, which makes the king, my brother-in-law as well.
Instead, the Emperor will focus on sharpening his governing skills...
And use his collar-grabs to defuse the mayors attempt to reduce taxes.
Eventually, his wedding day arrived, and he marries the Krogan prince to secure alliance with Hungary.
Nothing can go wrong now.
Elsewhere, the news of the Ilkhans war against the Ayyubids is met with joy.
Let those two pagans slaughter each other till the sands run red, the Latin army has had enough of that, thank you.
The Duchy of Antioch stood no chance against the Latin forces. Every single holdings are besieged by the Faithfuls.
The heretical count is reduced to a single county.
And finally the mercenaries can return home, pockets richer than ever before.
The capture of Tripoli creates a new front for Shepard. He must now defend his own Holy Land against the infidels - and with the years it'll take to cow the populace to his rule, the levy will have to come from his core counties.
Sensing his inability to project sufficient power to protect the new territory, he elected instead to gift it to the Papacy. For who is better to protect the Holy Lands than His Eminence, the newly elected Pope Agapetus III himself?
The Pope had no complaints and named Shepard as the True Christian Emperor of the East.
Of all the four captured counties, three were given to the Papacy and Shepard kept Baalbek for himself, the ruling count is pleased to be freed from the heretical Duke's rule.
Peace reigns over the Latin Empire for now... but for how long?
There is nothing to gain from this, I don't see why I should meddle with Hungary's succession. FYI, it's his own brother he's deposing, which makes the king, my brother-in-law as well.
Instead, the Emperor will focus on sharpening his governing skills...
And use his collar-grabs to defuse the mayors attempt to reduce taxes.
Eventually, his wedding day arrived, and he marries the Krogan prince to secure alliance with Hungary.
Nothing can go wrong now.
Elsewhere, the news of the Ilkhans war against the Ayyubids is met with joy.
Let those two pagans slaughter each other till the sands run red, the Latin army has had enough of that, thank you.
The Duchy of Antioch stood no chance against the Latin forces. Every single holdings are besieged by the Faithfuls.
The heretical count is reduced to a single county.
And finally the mercenaries can return home, pockets richer than ever before.
The capture of Tripoli creates a new front for Shepard. He must now defend his own Holy Land against the infidels - and with the years it'll take to cow the populace to his rule, the levy will have to come from his core counties.
Sensing his inability to project sufficient power to protect the new territory, he elected instead to gift it to the Papacy. For who is better to protect the Holy Lands than His Eminence, the newly elected Pope Agapetus III himself?
The Pope had no complaints and named Shepard as the True Christian Emperor of the East.
Of all the four captured counties, three were given to the Papacy and Shepard kept Baalbek for himself, the ruling count is pleased to be freed from the heretical Duke's rule.
Peace reigns over the Latin Empire for now... but for how long?
The Jagged Alliance
Years pass, and the infidels try once more to conquer Jerusalem.
Emperor Shepard summons his army and pledged to defend Jerusalem once more.
The Queen of Jerusalem accepted the offer gratefully.
Shepard's army proved to be the decisive force.
Dealing a terrible defeat, the infidels lands were raided and eventually they abandoned the invasion.
A truce was signed and all is right in the Holy Lands once more.
Elsewhere, Shepard plots to gain the Duchy of Epirus by marrying one of his courtier to one of the duchy claimants...
A cunning move.
I wonder how the Byzantine would react?
Elsewhere in Europe...
The Golden Horde has arrived. What sort of horrors do these pagans bring?
As the war for Epirus rages on, Shepard's army captured a very unfortunate soul...
This man reflected the cruelty of the Greeks, for those who are deemed traitorous are punished by having his vision blinded - and if that is not enough, the liege will take the man out of the man. Sensing great pity - Shepard released the captive immediately, to the admiration of many of his vassals.
Back home in Constantinople, Shepard watches closely the growth of his two young vassals, Count Charles for one is under his care.
Taking great care to curb this future vassal's ambition, Shepard knows what he does in the past will affect his future relations with this count, like exported save games.
Retiring to his bedchambers at night, Shepard is perplexed by the presence of a strange romantic poetry recommended by a poet named Jacob Marc Grady, with images of little sisters on the cover.
"What is this I don't even," he said as he flipped a few pages of the material.
"It's hentai, dear," Empress Klara purred, twirling her curly hair as if to hint something.
Shepard collar grabs his wife - drawing a gasp from his significant other, totally unprepared by this frontal assault on top and bottom. His Crucible is ready to dock with her Citadel.
"We bang, OK?"
And banged they did.
Throughout conflict, Shepard's father always sets aside a large sum of gold to found new cities for the Empire. These cities, when founded will offer a modest sum of gold at the start.
If Shepard can protect these newly-founded cities - he will have a future cash cow in his hands without needing new territories.
Satisfied with the assault on Citadel, Shepard dines and decides to try a new form of diet.
And gained more than he lost, as he finished his meal, his courtier brought in an unexpected message from his mother-in-law, the Krogan.
"It's about goddamn time they asked for our help!" Shepard bangs the table and declared his acceptance. Finally, the vision of Henri I, his father will come to fruition. The Latins will work closely together with the Byzantines, and eventually heal the Great Schism without resorting to force.
But there is still the matter of Epirus to settle...
No sooner the first siege if won, his mother in law displayed a cunning that he has severely underestimated.
Rather than giving his kingdom to Shepard, the Duke of Epirus surrendered to the Byzantines.
Shocked and enraged, Shepard's army is forced to depart with a foul after-taste. He has been outwitted.
And there is an alliance he has to honor.
Years pass, and the infidels try once more to conquer Jerusalem.
Emperor Shepard summons his army and pledged to defend Jerusalem once more.
The Queen of Jerusalem accepted the offer gratefully.
Shepard's army proved to be the decisive force.
Dealing a terrible defeat, the infidels lands were raided and eventually they abandoned the invasion.
A truce was signed and all is right in the Holy Lands once more.
Elsewhere, Shepard plots to gain the Duchy of Epirus by marrying one of his courtier to one of the duchy claimants...
A cunning move.
I wonder how the Byzantine would react?
Elsewhere in Europe...
The Golden Horde has arrived. What sort of horrors do these pagans bring?
As the war for Epirus rages on, Shepard's army captured a very unfortunate soul...
This man reflected the cruelty of the Greeks, for those who are deemed traitorous are punished by having his vision blinded - and if that is not enough, the liege will take the man out of the man. Sensing great pity - Shepard released the captive immediately, to the admiration of many of his vassals.
Back home in Constantinople, Shepard watches closely the growth of his two young vassals, Count Charles for one is under his care.
Taking great care to curb this future vassal's ambition, Shepard knows what he does in the past will affect his future relations with this count, like exported save games.
Retiring to his bedchambers at night, Shepard is perplexed by the presence of a strange romantic poetry recommended by a poet named Jacob Marc Grady, with images of little sisters on the cover.
"What is this I don't even," he said as he flipped a few pages of the material.
"It's hentai, dear," Empress Klara purred, twirling her curly hair as if to hint something.
Shepard collar grabs his wife - drawing a gasp from his significant other, totally unprepared by this frontal assault on top and bottom. His Crucible is ready to dock with her Citadel.
"We bang, OK?"
And banged they did.
Throughout conflict, Shepard's father always sets aside a large sum of gold to found new cities for the Empire. These cities, when founded will offer a modest sum of gold at the start.
If Shepard can protect these newly-founded cities - he will have a future cash cow in his hands without needing new territories.
Satisfied with the assault on Citadel, Shepard dines and decides to try a new form of diet.
And gained more than he lost, as he finished his meal, his courtier brought in an unexpected message from his mother-in-law, the Krogan.
"It's about goddamn time they asked for our help!" Shepard bangs the table and declared his acceptance. Finally, the vision of Henri I, his father will come to fruition. The Latins will work closely together with the Byzantines, and eventually heal the Great Schism without resorting to force.
But there is still the matter of Epirus to settle...
No sooner the first siege if won, his mother in law displayed a cunning that he has severely underestimated.
Rather than giving his kingdom to Shepard, the Duke of Epirus surrendered to the Byzantines.
Shocked and enraged, Shepard's army is forced to depart with a foul after-taste. He has been outwitted.
And there is an alliance he has to honor.
The Lost Opportunity
Shepard, feeling betrayed, did not actively participate in the battle for Alexandria.
Instead, his N7 fleet is diverted towards the revolting Emirate of Sinai.
There, he is hoping to make some gains for the lost opportunity in Epirus.
Ruthlessness prevails.
The two forces focused on their own objectives, merely allied by word only.
Joyous news back home as the Empress accepted Shepard's seed.
Is it a boy or a girl?
As a new city is founded another is slated for construction.
There will be no defeat this time.
His first born bears the mark of a Champion. He will be named, Hawke.
Shepard is making his mark in history.
And all will fear his name.
As the Mongols sack cities after cities, the Latin Emperor swore vengeance should the pagans dare to defile the Holy Lands with their presence.
Far to the north the alliance of Grand Princes is barely holding together from the Golden Horde assault. Cumania is swallowed raw.
Converting his subjects to the true religion is important, Shepard knows this. For every man is a Shepherd - and must direct them on the one True Faith.
As expected, the Byzantines did not need the Latin Empire's help. The Alliance was merely a cover to prevent the Latins from attacking them while their forces were away!
What's worse, their victory meant there was a change of liege for the Emir of Sinai, rendering the Latin's Holy War Casus Belli invalid!
Angered, Shepard commanded his army to return to Constantinople, vowing revenge.
Instead, his N7 fleet is diverted towards the revolting Emirate of Sinai.
There, he is hoping to make some gains for the lost opportunity in Epirus.
Ruthlessness prevails.
The two forces focused on their own objectives, merely allied by word only.
Joyous news back home as the Empress accepted Shepard's seed.
Is it a boy or a girl?
As a new city is founded another is slated for construction.
There will be no defeat this time.
His first born bears the mark of a Champion. He will be named, Hawke.
Shepard is making his mark in history.
And all will fear his name.
As the Mongols sack cities after cities, the Latin Emperor swore vengeance should the pagans dare to defile the Holy Lands with their presence.
Far to the north the alliance of Grand Princes is barely holding together from the Golden Horde assault. Cumania is swallowed raw.
Converting his subjects to the true religion is important, Shepard knows this. For every man is a Shepherd - and must direct them on the one True Faith.
As expected, the Byzantines did not need the Latin Empire's help. The Alliance was merely a cover to prevent the Latins from attacking them while their forces were away!
What's worse, their victory meant there was a change of liege for the Emir of Sinai, rendering the Latin's Holy War Casus Belli invalid!
Angered, Shepard commanded his army to return to Constantinople, vowing revenge.
Basic summary of Kingdoms I paid attention to:
Byzantine Empire
Power Rating
Growing much stronger than I thought - they've really recovered a lot of land. Alexandria is an unexpected Holy War, but seeing their 20,000 levy made me jealous. One day.. one day. But they will fall once the Basilissa passes away since the successor won't be Greek. Mark my words. At least we're allied with them through our marriage with Hungary's royalty.
Ayyubids
Power Rating
They were quite strong at the start, but I think with the Ilkhanate's arrival, they're going to be wiped off the map soon. Byzantine's victory is proof that they just can't muster the same force as before. If we recall Antioch, it took nearly 40,000 mercs from Constantinople to fend off their levies.
Ilkhanates
Power Rating
I'm going to have to watch my move. These guys aren't friendly by any stretch of imagination.The only reason why they haven't taken me down is due to some random factor of luck and picking on Muslims first. If they turn Muslim, we'll be in deep shit.
Rum
Power Rating
They're done for.
The Empty Hands (1240-1243)
Two wars with nothing to show for it, that much is clear.
The Latin Empire resources begin to dwindle.
It's time to rebuild and reflect.
Perhaps a feast will help us re-think our strategy.
Once the feast of Constantinople is finished, the Emperor begins to plot once more.
Perhaps neutralizing Bulgaria and installing a Christian King would pay off?
The Prince arrives in Constantinople and were given titles and ample treasures. He become fast friends with Shepard.Shepard agrees to install him as the King of Bulgaria - but only if he converts to the True Faith.
The cross is taken, and Shepard is not one to renege from his promise.
The boy king will not survive, taking no chances, Shepard calls upon his allies: the King of Hungary and the Byzantines.
The Hungarian King agrees, but his mother in law will take to part in it.
It is of no consequence - as Hungarian army rode from the north, the Latin army will commence assault on the Bulgarian coasts.
Elsewhere, a new Crusade is declared...
Shepard regretted this Bulgarian War almost immediately.
He cannot partake in the holy mission for he is committed to another conflict.
The Empress is pregnant again, will it be another Prince?
The first Bulgarian stronghold fell as months passed.
And Princess Tali of Constantinople is born. It was Shepard's first daughter.
Fortunately the Crusade went very well, the spent Ayyubids could not mount a successful defense and were overwhelmed completely.
The Christian's grip on the Holy Land seems to grow firmer. Yet the Pagan Ilkhan lurks just beyond the wastelands.
Shepard, not to be outdone, finishes what remains of the Bulgarian war.
A fellow Catholic now rules over Bulgaria.
The Latin Empire resources begin to dwindle.
It's time to rebuild and reflect.
Perhaps a feast will help us re-think our strategy.
Once the feast of Constantinople is finished, the Emperor begins to plot once more.
Perhaps neutralizing Bulgaria and installing a Christian King would pay off?
The Prince arrives in Constantinople and were given titles and ample treasures. He become fast friends with Shepard.Shepard agrees to install him as the King of Bulgaria - but only if he converts to the True Faith.
The cross is taken, and Shepard is not one to renege from his promise.
The boy king will not survive, taking no chances, Shepard calls upon his allies: the King of Hungary and the Byzantines.
The Hungarian King agrees, but his mother in law will take to part in it.
It is of no consequence - as Hungarian army rode from the north, the Latin army will commence assault on the Bulgarian coasts.
Elsewhere, a new Crusade is declared...
Shepard regretted this Bulgarian War almost immediately.
He cannot partake in the holy mission for he is committed to another conflict.
The Empress is pregnant again, will it be another Prince?
The first Bulgarian stronghold fell as months passed.
And Princess Tali of Constantinople is born. It was Shepard's first daughter.
Fortunately the Crusade went very well, the spent Ayyubids could not mount a successful defense and were overwhelmed completely.
The Christian's grip on the Holy Land seems to grow firmer. Yet the Pagan Ilkhan lurks just beyond the wastelands.
Shepard, not to be outdone, finishes what remains of the Bulgarian war.
A fellow Catholic now rules over Bulgaria.
What were you doing, Shepard? (1243-1248)
Three wars, and still no new territory to show for it.
This time, it's different. The Seljuks are weakened, the time to strike is now.
The relentless Emperor leads by example!
Elsewhere the desert steppes warrior battle it out for the spoils of war.
A lucky break for the rest of the world. One of them will suffer a huge loss.
Even in the fury of battle, Shepard still has time to spend with his beloved Empress. Is it a boy or a girl this time?
The Commander's leadership is impeccable, he thinks like a General and fights like a Spartan.
As the forces of the Seljuks suffer rout after routs, there can be no doubt on the outcome of this war.
Months later, the second Latin prince is born. He will bear a warrior's name.
Garrus; in an alien tongue it means 'Garrison'. For he is born to be the Shield of Christianity.
Hawke, on the other hand has issues... the divided attention of his father drove him to mischief. If nothing is done, the Prince will grow up crooked.
Fortunately, Shepard renegade interrupts was sufficient to arrest that development.
But the Emperor has no patience with the Seljuks and doubled their efforts in Rum.
Captured nobles were ransomed off.
Only to be slain on the next battle.
Prince Hawke, surrounded by success and prestige of his father grew content and complacent. Knowing that his firstborn would probably be unfit to rule one day, the Emperor let is happen. Unfair as it may seem, the eldest of his child will not be one of his favored successor, for he lacks ambition.
Besides, he can always make more.
More treasures accumulated and wealth spent on building a new city in Thrake.
1247, Shepard's mother passes away.
No tears were shed, for the Empress bore Shepard another child.
Actually make those twins, Wrex and Gaider.
While the eldest grew softer and complacent. One day, the four princes might vie for the throne. This is cause for some worry.
Worry enough to affect the Emperor's emotional state.
But that will not stop him from taking Rum.
Three counties were captured in this war, and Shepard finally ended the drought of conquest. But that...is only the beginning of his ambitions.
He is even willing to go all the way to accomplish it.
This time, it's different. The Seljuks are weakened, the time to strike is now.
The relentless Emperor leads by example!
Elsewhere the desert steppes warrior battle it out for the spoils of war.
A lucky break for the rest of the world. One of them will suffer a huge loss.
Even in the fury of battle, Shepard still has time to spend with his beloved Empress. Is it a boy or a girl this time?
The Commander's leadership is impeccable, he thinks like a General and fights like a Spartan.
As the forces of the Seljuks suffer rout after routs, there can be no doubt on the outcome of this war.
Months later, the second Latin prince is born. He will bear a warrior's name.
Garrus; in an alien tongue it means 'Garrison'. For he is born to be the Shield of Christianity.
Hawke, on the other hand has issues... the divided attention of his father drove him to mischief. If nothing is done, the Prince will grow up crooked.
Fortunately, Shepard renegade interrupts was sufficient to arrest that development.
But the Emperor has no patience with the Seljuks and doubled their efforts in Rum.
Captured nobles were ransomed off.
Only to be slain on the next battle.
Prince Hawke, surrounded by success and prestige of his father grew content and complacent. Knowing that his firstborn would probably be unfit to rule one day, the Emperor let is happen. Unfair as it may seem, the eldest of his child will not be one of his favored successor, for he lacks ambition.
Besides, he can always make more.
More treasures accumulated and wealth spent on building a new city in Thrake.
1247, Shepard's mother passes away.
No tears were shed, for the Empress bore Shepard another child.
Actually make those twins, Wrex and Gaider.
While the eldest grew softer and complacent. One day, the four princes might vie for the throne. This is cause for some worry.
Worry enough to affect the Emperor's emotional state.
But that will not stop him from taking Rum.
Three counties were captured in this war, and Shepard finally ended the drought of conquest. But that...is only the beginning of his ambitions.
He is even willing to go all the way to accomplish it.
Shepard and Sons 1248-1251
With this betrothal in place, an alliance will be sealed once Tali comes of age.
A great change is coming.
Elsewhere, the truce between the Latin Empire and the heretical duchy of Antioch has expired.
The sinner shall be exiled from his kingdom.
The Emperor can't seem to control himself of late. This is worrying. Any more sons and Gavelkind is starting to sound like a very bad idea.
Already the Emperor has given up on his eldest son, Hawke. Rather than plotting to assassinate his firstborn, he rather just prepare the boy to a lifetime of battle against the infidels. Raynaud de Ba'albek, a famed Frankish warrior is given the task of shaping the boy into a Holy Warrior.
Antioch -
The heathens never stood a chance.
Another Holy Land secured! This time the Latin Empire keeps hold of it. As the news of his wife's childbirth reaches Shepard's ear, he rushes back to Constantinople, fearing the worst...
Thankfully, it is a daughter this time. He was so relieved he didn't give a damn about naming that girl.
Another city is constructed in celebration of the capture of Antioch.
Months later, the Seljuk vassal state of Ankara rebelled against its liege, this is an opportunity Shepard cannot miss.
Summoning his holy warriors, they swept aside any Seljuk and Ankaran troops, laying siege to the county within weeks.
Elsewhere, the Hungarian King begs him for help once more...
Wishing to cement the Hungarian-Latin alliance, Shepard agrees. And it was not just empty talk.
A token force of 3,000 sails forth towards the rebelling Hungarian county of Hum.
Back in Constantinople...
His second son, Garrus returns with more bruises. His minder claims that the boy does this very often, picking frequent fights against the other children. Even as he is presented before his father, the boy's gaze remain steely and unrepentant.
"Good work, son. Let's see you do that to the enemies of the Empire when you grow up," the Emperor said as he pats his son's shoulder.
Garrus beamed with pride at his father's approval.
He will be joining his brother, Hawke in training under the aging Swordmaster Raynaud.
Latin victory is sealed in Ankara.
As the Emperor adds another county to his Empire, he commands the construction of a Church in celebration of the victory.
Naxos will now have a place of worship.
Antioch and Ankara now belongs to the Latin Empire. What will the Emperor's next move be?
A great change is coming.
Elsewhere, the truce between the Latin Empire and the heretical duchy of Antioch has expired.
The sinner shall be exiled from his kingdom.
The Emperor can't seem to control himself of late. This is worrying. Any more sons and Gavelkind is starting to sound like a very bad idea.
Already the Emperor has given up on his eldest son, Hawke. Rather than plotting to assassinate his firstborn, he rather just prepare the boy to a lifetime of battle against the infidels. Raynaud de Ba'albek, a famed Frankish warrior is given the task of shaping the boy into a Holy Warrior.
Antioch -
The heathens never stood a chance.
Another Holy Land secured! This time the Latin Empire keeps hold of it. As the news of his wife's childbirth reaches Shepard's ear, he rushes back to Constantinople, fearing the worst...
Thankfully, it is a daughter this time. He was so relieved he didn't give a damn about naming that girl.
Another city is constructed in celebration of the capture of Antioch.
Months later, the Seljuk vassal state of Ankara rebelled against its liege, this is an opportunity Shepard cannot miss.
Summoning his holy warriors, they swept aside any Seljuk and Ankaran troops, laying siege to the county within weeks.
Elsewhere, the Hungarian King begs him for help once more...
Wishing to cement the Hungarian-Latin alliance, Shepard agrees. And it was not just empty talk.
A token force of 3,000 sails forth towards the rebelling Hungarian county of Hum.
Back in Constantinople...
His second son, Garrus returns with more bruises. His minder claims that the boy does this very often, picking frequent fights against the other children. Even as he is presented before his father, the boy's gaze remain steely and unrepentant.
"Good work, son. Let's see you do that to the enemies of the Empire when you grow up," the Emperor said as he pats his son's shoulder.
Garrus beamed with pride at his father's approval.
He will be joining his brother, Hawke in training under the aging Swordmaster Raynaud.
Latin victory is sealed in Ankara.
As the Emperor adds another county to his Empire, he commands the construction of a Church in celebration of the victory.
Naxos will now have a place of worship.
Antioch and Ankara now belongs to the Latin Empire. What will the Emperor's next move be?
Hawke of Flanders (1252-1255)
Hungry for more territory, Shepard launches another Holy War, this time against a revolting Sheikh of Sinai.
It's a race against the Ayyubid forces to subjugate the lone county of Sinai.
No reason to hold back, a Holy Order was called into action and assaulted the holding.
This minor backwater county is of no use to the Latin Empire when held, but it will serve as a good bargaining chip to the newly elected Pope.
His ambitious nature makes it hard for Shepard to please him - Sinai will have to do.
It's enough to take us out his bad books.
Constantinople receives another keep upgrade.
Having four sons and two daughters meant that there is enough heirs to go around, it's time to keep Shepard's virility in check.
A feast was held later that year, the only minor incident being a murdered peasant...
And some complaints about the food.
But everything seems well enough to call it a good year.
Garrus has a great sense of justice about him, this would serve him well when governing.
A new year, a new conquest... this time a revolting Emir of Sinai. Two of his counties is ripe for picking.
The Ayyubids try their best to stop the Latin expansion but their efforts were in vain.
Prince Gaider and Wrex, the youngest twins were being cared for by the Emperor himself.
Gaider seems to be a very sociable sort.
But his eldest brother has grown up to be a very fine young man.
Prince Hawke, learning much under his tutor rose to become a brilliant strategist.
He did not waste any time and boards the first ship out of Constantinope, right after his marriage to the Princess of the Holy Roman Empire.
His younger brother, Garrus in contrast, displays remarkable ambitions.
They will never get along with each other.
As he arrived in Egypt, Hawke takes command of the attack force.
And claims his first victory!
Alas the young boy is not ready for the slaughter - and grew fearful of battles, much to the dismay of his father.
It's a race against the Ayyubid forces to subjugate the lone county of Sinai.
No reason to hold back, a Holy Order was called into action and assaulted the holding.
This minor backwater county is of no use to the Latin Empire when held, but it will serve as a good bargaining chip to the newly elected Pope.
His ambitious nature makes it hard for Shepard to please him - Sinai will have to do.
It's enough to take us out his bad books.
Constantinople receives another keep upgrade.
Having four sons and two daughters meant that there is enough heirs to go around, it's time to keep Shepard's virility in check.
A feast was held later that year, the only minor incident being a murdered peasant...
And some complaints about the food.
But everything seems well enough to call it a good year.
Garrus has a great sense of justice about him, this would serve him well when governing.
A new year, a new conquest... this time a revolting Emir of Sinai. Two of his counties is ripe for picking.
The Ayyubids try their best to stop the Latin expansion but their efforts were in vain.
Prince Gaider and Wrex, the youngest twins were being cared for by the Emperor himself.
Gaider seems to be a very sociable sort.
But his eldest brother has grown up to be a very fine young man.
Prince Hawke, learning much under his tutor rose to become a brilliant strategist.
He did not waste any time and boards the first ship out of Constantinope, right after his marriage to the Princess of the Holy Roman Empire.
His younger brother, Garrus in contrast, displays remarkable ambitions.
They will never get along with each other.
As he arrived in Egypt, Hawke takes command of the attack force.
And claims his first victory!
Alas the young boy is not ready for the slaughter - and grew fearful of battles, much to the dismay of his father.
An Unexpected Gift (1255-1259)
An unexpected message arrived at Constantinople in one fine morning...
Flanders, the birthright of Emperor Baldwin I now belongs to Shepard. Just north of France, bordering the Holy Roman Empire. It is a prosperous duchy.
Wanting to keep such a prosperous Duchy for his own Dynasty, Shepard appoints Prince Hawke as the Duke of Flanders, this pleases his firstborn greatly.
As for his other sons...
They're not doing so badly either.
The Holy War for Sinai is won, and the Latin Empire stole more land from the crumbling Ayyubids once more.
The time is ripe to start our own army. A professional army capable of protecting the land any time. Ten Frankish Knights retinue were commissioned, taking a sizable amount from the royal treasury. It will take months before its training is completed.
Wrex seems to have better ruling skills than the rest of his brothers, though his twin is still young and still have room to grow.
As for his sister...
Tali is now of age, and Shepard bids his tearful daughter farewell as she makes the ultimate sacrifice for the Latin Empire in marrying the Krogan of Ilkhanate.
A minor war broke out between the Papal State of Sinai and the Ayyubids later that year.
Sensing an opportunity to curry the Pope's favor, Shepard sends his retinue bolstered with levy to fight off the Ayyubids. The combined force of Latin and Holy Orders crushed the Ayyubids so decisively - and the Sultan of Ayyubid was forced to pay a heavy compensation to the Pope, bankrupting his empire.
Back home, things are beginning to fall apart for the twins...
Flanders, the birthright of Emperor Baldwin I now belongs to Shepard. Just north of France, bordering the Holy Roman Empire. It is a prosperous duchy.
Wanting to keep such a prosperous Duchy for his own Dynasty, Shepard appoints Prince Hawke as the Duke of Flanders, this pleases his firstborn greatly.
As for his other sons...
They're not doing so badly either.
The Holy War for Sinai is won, and the Latin Empire stole more land from the crumbling Ayyubids once more.
The time is ripe to start our own army. A professional army capable of protecting the land any time. Ten Frankish Knights retinue were commissioned, taking a sizable amount from the royal treasury. It will take months before its training is completed.
Wrex seems to have better ruling skills than the rest of his brothers, though his twin is still young and still have room to grow.
As for his sister...
Tali is now of age, and Shepard bids his tearful daughter farewell as she makes the ultimate sacrifice for the Latin Empire in marrying the Krogan of Ilkhanate.
A minor war broke out between the Papal State of Sinai and the Ayyubids later that year.
Sensing an opportunity to curry the Pope's favor, Shepard sends his retinue bolstered with levy to fight off the Ayyubids. The combined force of Latin and Holy Orders crushed the Ayyubids so decisively - and the Sultan of Ayyubid was forced to pay a heavy compensation to the Pope, bankrupting his empire.
Back home, things are beginning to fall apart for the twins...
End of Line (1259-1261)
More land for the Latins, this time the counties of Damietta.
The Hungarian King calls upon the Latins to assist them once more against Bulgaria.
Wishing to neutralize this Orthodox threat so close at home, Emperor Shepard accepts.
Meanwhile the battle of Damietta is proceeding as expected, we were not the only ones after their holding. The Byzantines are there as well to stake a claim.
A smaller army of 4000 were sent to the north to assist in the Hungary-Bulgarian war.
Meanwhile, Prince Garrus has come of age.
The Infidels will fear him.
The two brothers lead each flank, attacking without mercy.
It appears the Hungarian army will win this battle without much assistance from the Latin Empire.
Elsewhere, the death of the Basilissa meant the end of the line for the Laskaris House as the rulers of Byzantine. An Arpad will take the throne.
And he is a Catholic, which means the Orthodox influence is weakening at a rapid rate.
Prince Garrus of Latin Empire will be married to a Sicilian Prince to secure another alliance.
We need all the allies we can get.
Even the Byzantines aren't shy to ask for help, the Bulgars are getting smacked left and right.
Which is quite ridiculous, since they didn't even need the help in the first place.
27 December 1261
It was two days after Christmas, Wrex and Gaider played together, drawing laughter from the Empress and their father. Despite the stress of managing an Empire, Shepard has done well for himself. Losing nothing and taking more and more territory, it will take time, but the Latin Emperor has grand plans for the future..but for now...he's so tired..so cold...that he must rest.
"Gaider, Wrex...don't fight with your brothers...OK?" he said before closing his eyes.
It was his time to go.
All Hail Emperor Hawke of Flanders...
More land for the Latins, this time the counties of Damietta.
The Hungarian King calls upon the Latins to assist them once more against Bulgaria.
Wishing to neutralize this Orthodox threat so close at home, Emperor Shepard accepts.
Meanwhile the battle of Damietta is proceeding as expected, we were not the only ones after their holding. The Byzantines are there as well to stake a claim.
A smaller army of 4000 were sent to the north to assist in the Hungary-Bulgarian war.
Meanwhile, Prince Garrus has come of age.
The Infidels will fear him.
The two brothers lead each flank, attacking without mercy.
It appears the Hungarian army will win this battle without much assistance from the Latin Empire.
Elsewhere, the death of the Basilissa meant the end of the line for the Laskaris House as the rulers of Byzantine. An Arpad will take the throne.
And he is a Catholic, which means the Orthodox influence is weakening at a rapid rate.
Prince Garrus of Latin Empire will be married to a Sicilian Prince to secure another alliance.
We need all the allies we can get.
Even the Byzantines aren't shy to ask for help, the Bulgars are getting smacked left and right.
Which is quite ridiculous, since they didn't even need the help in the first place.
27 December 1261
It was two days after Christmas, Wrex and Gaider played together, drawing laughter from the Empress and their father. Despite the stress of managing an Empire, Shepard has done well for himself. Losing nothing and taking more and more territory, it will take time, but the Latin Emperor has grand plans for the future..but for now...he's so tired..so cold...that he must rest.
"Gaider, Wrex...don't fight with your brothers...OK?" he said before closing his eyes.
It was his time to go.
All Hail Emperor Hawke of Flanders...
Hawke the Apostate (1261-1263)
Times are changing. The old guards have passed, as new rivalries emerged.
As the two Eastern Roman Empires crown their new rulers, the Catholic influence grew stronger with the continued defeats of the Muslim kingdoms across the realms and the acceptance of a Catholic Byzantine Emperor.
But Emperor Hawke of the Latin Empire must first quell the anger of his brothers, most particular is his ambitious brother, Garrus the Holy Warrior.
He will also have to renew the fragile alliance with the newly crowned Emperor Lukacs of Byzantine Empire, he offers his brother's hand, Wrex in marriage with a Byzantine Princess.
He decides to grant the Duchy of Flanders to Garrus. It will have to do for now.
Barely months into his new rule, he was shocked by a message from the church...
How dare they do this to him! This is a grave insult!
Betrayed by the Church that his family has served loyally for generations, Hawke sees no other course for justice...
If the Pope will not cleanse him of his sin, he will simply appoint his own Pope to do so.
As Byzantines deal with their revolting Greek vassals, the Latin Army continues their campaign on Damietta.
Elsewhere the Muslim world is rocked with another news across the steppes..
The Ilkhanates have adopted the Orthodox Nestorian heresy.
Around the same time, a son is born to the Emperor's house. He will name him after his great father, Shepard.
The Latin Empire is called into action by the Ilkhans to wage Holy War against the Muslims, a battle they clearly relished but have no manpower to spare for.
Damietta falls.
As Emperor Hawke dismisses his tired levy, he instructed Prince Garrus' army to set sail for Rome. There, he plans to strike a bargain with the Papacy.
That is, the election of his appointed Pope into Rome.
Rome, shocked by the sudden arrival of 7,000 strong Frankish Knights immediately hired any available mercs to defend their capital. The war for Papacy has begun.
Times are changing. The old guards have passed, as new rivalries emerged.
As the two Eastern Roman Empires crown their new rulers, the Catholic influence grew stronger with the continued defeats of the Muslim kingdoms across the realms and the acceptance of a Catholic Byzantine Emperor.
But Emperor Hawke of the Latin Empire must first quell the anger of his brothers, most particular is his ambitious brother, Garrus the Holy Warrior.
He will also have to renew the fragile alliance with the newly crowned Emperor Lukacs of Byzantine Empire, he offers his brother's hand, Wrex in marriage with a Byzantine Princess.
He decides to grant the Duchy of Flanders to Garrus. It will have to do for now.
Barely months into his new rule, he was shocked by a message from the church...
How dare they do this to him! This is a grave insult!
Betrayed by the Church that his family has served loyally for generations, Hawke sees no other course for justice...
If the Pope will not cleanse him of his sin, he will simply appoint his own Pope to do so.
As Byzantines deal with their revolting Greek vassals, the Latin Army continues their campaign on Damietta.
Elsewhere the Muslim world is rocked with another news across the steppes..
The Ilkhanates have adopted the Orthodox Nestorian heresy.
Around the same time, a son is born to the Emperor's house. He will name him after his great father, Shepard.
The Latin Empire is called into action by the Ilkhans to wage Holy War against the Muslims, a battle they clearly relished but have no manpower to spare for.
Damietta falls.
As Emperor Hawke dismisses his tired levy, he instructed Prince Garrus' army to set sail for Rome. There, he plans to strike a bargain with the Papacy.
That is, the election of his appointed Pope into Rome.
Rome, shocked by the sudden arrival of 7,000 strong Frankish Knights immediately hired any available mercs to defend their capital. The war for Papacy has begun.
Absalom
Guest
Nice ninja'ing of the Pope's mercenaries. Hmm, never saw anyone play around with anti-popes before; I didn't know you could just invade Rome to appoint your own candidate. And looking at how your bishops thought so little of him I guess nobody liked that pope anyway.
Free Investiture +30 Bishop relations basically.
The biggest issue I found with regular Popes is the moment he is born with Ambitious traits, relations are automatically fucked. It's -50 to relations FFS. And bribing the pope is scaled to the size of his treasury, that's broken as hell.
The biggest issue I found with regular Popes is the moment he is born with Ambitious traits, relations are automatically fucked. It's -50 to relations FFS. And bribing the pope is scaled to the size of his treasury, that's broken as hell.
The Latin Rome 1263-1265
To the surprise of the Latin Emperor, the Ilkahanates are wary of honoring our alliance.
Perhaps they are not as strong as we originally thought? Depleted by wars, their numbers should be less by now.
In Constantinople, the two Princes are coming of age.
Gaider did not excel in his training, despite the best attempt by his instructors, he only managed to grasp the basics, but not the brilliance of war. He will make a decent military officer, but that's about it. He also eyes the throne of the Emperor with envy.
While his brother Wrex, prefers the sound of jingling coins. A fortune builder to be sure.
Elsewhere the army of Prince Garrus routed the newly assembled mercenaries of Rome despite their numbers disadvantage.
They gave chase to the 10,000 strong army as they fled Rome.
Death to a fellow Christian.
As more of the Latin mercenaries and levy arrive, the Papal army regrouped as they make a stand against the chasing Latin Army. It's 16,000 vs 5000... who knows how it'll end?
Prince Garrus men is facing a severe numerical disadvantage as the Papal forces made their numbers count, what's more, every other Latin divisions are too far away to assist...
Yet a miracle happens!
The Papal mercs retreated from fatigue. Losing 3/4 of his men, it is still considered a decisive victory.
For now there is enough forces in Rome to effectively occupy every holding and wipe out any resistance.
More subjects of the wayward Pope captured.
Not even the Crusader States were spared.
In Constantinople, Emperor Hawke takes care of diplomacy.
With the death of Emperor Shepard - the alliance with the Byzantine is broken, we need to re-establish it.
Rome is ours!
The New Pope, Adrian V is more receptive of Hawke.
Elsewhere the newly crowned Emperor of Byzantine, Lukacs I is hurt grievously in battle.
He may not have much time left in him.
The power ranking still places Latin Empire far below the top 5.
Worryingly, the Byzantine Empire still retains a 2 to 1 advantage of army size. Hopefully there will be some internal strife that breaks down their strength.
We're here to hasten that, of course.
Perhaps they are not as strong as we originally thought? Depleted by wars, their numbers should be less by now.
In Constantinople, the two Princes are coming of age.
Gaider did not excel in his training, despite the best attempt by his instructors, he only managed to grasp the basics, but not the brilliance of war. He will make a decent military officer, but that's about it. He also eyes the throne of the Emperor with envy.
While his brother Wrex, prefers the sound of jingling coins. A fortune builder to be sure.
Elsewhere the army of Prince Garrus routed the newly assembled mercenaries of Rome despite their numbers disadvantage.
They gave chase to the 10,000 strong army as they fled Rome.
Death to a fellow Christian.
As more of the Latin mercenaries and levy arrive, the Papal army regrouped as they make a stand against the chasing Latin Army. It's 16,000 vs 5000... who knows how it'll end?
Prince Garrus men is facing a severe numerical disadvantage as the Papal forces made their numbers count, what's more, every other Latin divisions are too far away to assist...
Yet a miracle happens!
The Papal mercs retreated from fatigue. Losing 3/4 of his men, it is still considered a decisive victory.
For now there is enough forces in Rome to effectively occupy every holding and wipe out any resistance.
More subjects of the wayward Pope captured.
Not even the Crusader States were spared.
In Constantinople, Emperor Hawke takes care of diplomacy.
With the death of Emperor Shepard - the alliance with the Byzantine is broken, we need to re-establish it.
Rome is ours!
The New Pope, Adrian V is more receptive of Hawke.
Elsewhere the newly crowned Emperor of Byzantine, Lukacs I is hurt grievously in battle.
He may not have much time left in him.
The power ranking still places Latin Empire far below the top 5.
Worryingly, the Byzantine Empire still retains a 2 to 1 advantage of army size. Hopefully there will be some internal strife that breaks down their strength.
We're here to hasten that, of course.
Clash of Empires 1265-1269
Emperor Hawke is blessed with another daughter.
This one is named Ashley.
The Byzantine seems to enter war more often, this time they engage the Hungarians over a territorial dispute.
Wisely, the Latin Empire stayed out of it.
Back in Constantinople, the Emperor is shocked by the news of his brother, Prince Gaider leaving the capital without permission.
It seems the Prince is more content to serve as a steward to a Mayor instead of serving under a brother whose throne he clearly envies. Ah, Gaider, such an over-sensitive man. Wrex, his twin prefers to stay in Constantinople and serve as a Steward to his elder brother.
Peace reigns until one day...
This cause for grave concern, it seems Gent falls under the domain of Prince Garrus of Flanders.
We request help from the Byzantine Empire...yet only rejection is the reply.
In protest, the vassal Pope was instructed to excommunicate the Kaiser.
It is not enough.
The Holy Roman Empire's might is just too strong to match, we are forced to surrender a part of Flanders.
Prince Garrus grew bitter but silently accepts the surrender of his demesne to the Kaiser.
Elsewhere, the Byzantine Emperor's ambitions seems to have far outstripped his resources.
This is an opportunity we cannot miss. While he is fully invested in a war against Hungary, the Latin Empire should steal a land right from under him!
The county of Abydos is ours by De Jure.
As our forces siege their capital and Abydos itself, the Byzantines quickly settled the war with Hungary to rush in defense of their empire. Unfortunately, their 18,000 strong forces were caught in a river ambush by our 12,000 strong army.
A 12,000 army that is about to be reinforced by the Papal forces of 9,000 from the seas.
An utter defeat to the Byzantine Army. The balance of power has shifted.
The retinue of the Emperor delivers the killing blow on the survivors of the battle.
Back in Constantinople, the Emperor spends time with his eldest son and his gardens...
Before heading back to war, sowing the souls of men.
Wrex, his brother proves his dedication to the cause by delivering the good news at the capital...
With the freshly available funds, more mercs were hired, the Byzantines knew they were truly beaten and surrender accordingly.
This one is named Ashley.
The Byzantine seems to enter war more often, this time they engage the Hungarians over a territorial dispute.
Wisely, the Latin Empire stayed out of it.
Back in Constantinople, the Emperor is shocked by the news of his brother, Prince Gaider leaving the capital without permission.
It seems the Prince is more content to serve as a steward to a Mayor instead of serving under a brother whose throne he clearly envies. Ah, Gaider, such an over-sensitive man. Wrex, his twin prefers to stay in Constantinople and serve as a Steward to his elder brother.
Peace reigns until one day...
This cause for grave concern, it seems Gent falls under the domain of Prince Garrus of Flanders.
We request help from the Byzantine Empire...yet only rejection is the reply.
In protest, the vassal Pope was instructed to excommunicate the Kaiser.
It is not enough.
The Holy Roman Empire's might is just too strong to match, we are forced to surrender a part of Flanders.
Prince Garrus grew bitter but silently accepts the surrender of his demesne to the Kaiser.
Elsewhere, the Byzantine Emperor's ambitions seems to have far outstripped his resources.
This is an opportunity we cannot miss. While he is fully invested in a war against Hungary, the Latin Empire should steal a land right from under him!
The county of Abydos is ours by De Jure.
As our forces siege their capital and Abydos itself, the Byzantines quickly settled the war with Hungary to rush in defense of their empire. Unfortunately, their 18,000 strong forces were caught in a river ambush by our 12,000 strong army.
A 12,000 army that is about to be reinforced by the Papal forces of 9,000 from the seas.
An utter defeat to the Byzantine Army. The balance of power has shifted.
The retinue of the Emperor delivers the killing blow on the survivors of the battle.
Back in Constantinople, the Emperor spends time with his eldest son and his gardens...
Before heading back to war, sowing the souls of men.
Wrex, his brother proves his dedication to the cause by delivering the good news at the capital...
With the freshly available funds, more mercs were hired, the Byzantines knew they were truly beaten and surrender accordingly.
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