Crusader Kings II Succession Game [Archive] - Giant in the Playground Forums

Grif

2013-01-13, 11:00 AM

Now, I know I'm also involved in the Playgrounder's Dwarf Fortress community fort, but I'm wondering if anyone here would be interested in a CK2 succession game as well.

In case anyone is wondering what is CK2:
Crusader Kings 2 is a strategy game from Paradox Interactive, the makers of all sorts of grand strategy games that span a vast time period, from 1066-the late 20th century. In this case, we are playing their game focused on Europe of the Middle Ages. Specifically, the second of those games. It's probably the best, or at least the least buggy, game they've made. In it, you take control of a dynasty, not a country, and try to guide them as successfully as you can to rank with the great families of history.

So, yes, any takers? Each player will get to play with one ruler. Sucks if your ruler meets an early death... but eh, part of the fun, no?

EDIT: 4/3/2013
Game has finished.
Duke Bleddyn I of Gwynedd
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/193207/o5tdVF7.jpg
One of the largest Welsh duchies, poor Gwynedd is hemmed in to the East by England, and surrounded by petty Welsh counts and a fragmented Ireland to the north.

Rulers
Duke Bleddyn I (1066-1085) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14561718&postcount=117), 2 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14561871&postcount=121)
Duke Cadwgan I (1085-1098) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14569348&postcount=149)
Count Cadwgan (1098-1099) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14569348&postcount=149)
Count Llylewyn (1099-1107) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14577116&postcount=158)
Duke Llylewyn I (1107-1117) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14577116&postcount=158)
King Llyewyn I (1117-1124) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14577116&postcount=158)
King Llyewyn II 'the Great' (1124-1171) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14585616&postcount=198)
King Cadwgan I (1171-1190) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14593611&postcount=220)
King Llyewyn III (1171-1222) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14602263&postcount=227), 2 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14611034&postcount=241)
King Cadwgan II (1222-1223) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14620866&postcount=258)
King Geraint I (1223-1266) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14641200&postcount=303)
King Cadwgan III (1266-1275) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14653537&postcount=321), 2 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14654723&postcount=325)
Queen Mali I (1275-1304) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14664615&postcount=337), 2 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14671198&postcount=346)
King Madog I (1304-1326) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14706779&postcount=399), 2 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14709895&postcount=402)
King Clynddylan I 'the Great' (1326-1354) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14759585&postcount=477)
King Conone I (1326-1370) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14769406&postcount=491), 2 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14769834&postcount=492), 3 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14769914&postcount=493), 4 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14770185&postcount=496), 5 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14770289&postcount=497)
Emperor Cynddylan I 'the Great' (1370-1432)1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14785330&postcount=529), 2 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14789031&postcount=533), 3 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14791256&postcount=545)
Emperor Cynddylan II (1432-1436) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14810937&postcount=577)
Emperor Cynddylan III (1436-1443) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14817888&postcount=586)
Emperor Gianleone I (1443-1453) 1 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14822180&postcount=594), 2 (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14822573&postcount=596)

A quick summary of events. Thanks to Zar Peter for this one.
Duke Bleddyn of Gwynedd, the Boring: Grif

Born: 1. January 1025
Reign from 1066 till 4. December 1085 (9 years),
died comatose in bed at the age of 60

United Wales but failed to become King.

Duke of Gwynedd and Deheubarth
Count of Gwynedd and Powys.

1060 Points

son:
Count Cadwgan of Glamorgan, the first Cadwgan: Gamerlord

Born: 1. January 1041
Reign from 4. December 1085 - 19. June 1099 (13 years)
died a natural death at the age of 58

Nearly lost all his father left him due to money problems and a mercenary revolution.

Count of Glamorgan

330 Points

son:
King Llwelyn I, the Inattentive: Weezer

Bron: 1. January 1057
reign from 19. June 1099 - 19. February 1124 (24 years)
Died a natural death at the age of 67

United Wales and became the first King but nearly lost it to his line due to an unfortunate matrilineal marriage.

King of Wales
Duke of Gwynedd and Deheubarth
Count of Gwynedd, Gwent, Glamorgan and Powys.

2288 Points

grandson:
King Llwelyn II, the Great: Narkis

Born 2. January 1098
Reign from 19. February 1124 - 17. April 1171 (47 years)
Died of severe stress at the age of 73

His father Cadwgan died under mysterious circumstances (since it was a Cadwgan it may be he broke his toe or something). Managed to get rid of his first, matrilineal, wife.
Smashed Ireland and created the Kingdom of Ireland. Conquered Oxford.

King of Wales and Ireland
Duke of Gwynedd and Deheubarth
Count of Gwynedd, Gwent, Glamorgan, Perfeddwlad, Shrewsbury and Powys.

5285 Points

son:
King Cadwgan I, the Unfortunate: Zar Peter

Born 19. August 1130
Reign from 17. April 1171 till 14.September 1190 (19 years)
Died a natural death at the age of 60

Lost Ireland and the English realms except Shrewsbury due to revolution. Lead a war against Brittany, which he won but gained nothing out of it. Died during the war to win back the Kingdom of Ireland from his half-sister.

King of Wales
Duke of Gwynedd
Count of Powys and Tyrconnell

1799 Points

son:
King Llwelyn III, the Sensible: Silfir

Born 16. August 1158
Reign from 14. September 1190 till 30. May 1222 (31 years)
Died a natural death at the age of 64

Won the war for the Kingdom of Ireland, gained Brittany as part of the game. Lost Shrewsbury to Norway. Inherited parts of Hungary (Csanad) due to lucky marriage connections. Conquered parts of Spain and Northern Africa.

King of Wales, Ireland and Brittany
Duke of Gwynedd and Connacht
Count of Powys, Lemmdiyya, Biskra, Gwynedd, Perfeddwlad, Connacht, Dublin and Muaskar

5328 Points

son:
King Cadwgan II, the Founder: Closet Skeleton

Born 1. November 1183
Reign from 30. May 1222 till 28. June 1223 (1 year)
Died of severe stress at the age of 40

Founder of some Universities

King of Wales, Ireland, and Britanny
Duke of Gwynned and Tlemcen
Count of Powys, Gwynned, Perfeddwlad and Dublin

1592 Points

son:
King Geraint Ironside: Flickerdart

Born 29. July 1207
Reign from 27. June 1223 till 12. November 1266 (43 years)
Died as maimed cripple at the age of 59

Conquerer of the Pisan Republic in Africa (Algier), began the War for Scotland.

King of Wales, Ireland, and Britanny
Duke of Aragon, Gwynned, Britanny, Tlemcen, Ulster, Deheubath, Galloway, Connaught, and the Isles
Count of Powys, Cornouaille, Orania, Gwynned, Perfeddwlad, Argyll, Ulster, Connacht, and Dublin

6133 Points

son:
King Cadwgan III, the Inheritor: Kurgan

Born 17. August 1230
Reign from 12. November 1266 till 6. August 1275 (9 years)
Died a natural death at the age of 45

Inherited the wars of his father and died shortly before he finally won them.

King of Wales, Ireland, and Britanny
Duke of Gwynned, Britanny, Ulster, Deheubath and Munster
Count of Powys, Cornouaille, Ulster, Connacht, Gwynned and Dublin

1450 Points

daughter:
Queen Mali I, the Dragon: Avaris

Born 27. October 1268
Reign from 6. August 1275 till 19. February 1304 (28 years)
Died after a period of Illness at the age of 36

Finally won the wars of her grandfather, continued to conquer Scotland and did quite fine at it. Lost some Counties to France, finally lost the holdings in Hungary.

Queen of Wales, Ireland and Brittany
Duchess of Gwynedd, Deheubarth, Lothian and Asturias
Countess of powys, Gwynedd, Ulster, Teviotsdale, Lothian, Fife and Norena.

4580 Points

son:
King Madog I, the Inhumator: Trixie

Born 29. April 1287
Reign from 19. February 1304 till 6. October 1326 (22 years)
Died a maimed cripple at the age of 39

Claimed the titles King of Leon, of Scotland and Brittany. Fought against rebells in Algiers. Lost two sons to the dreaded plague. Was excumicated twice.

King of Wales, Scotland, Ireland, León (elective) and Brittany
Duke of Gwynedd, León, and Asturias
Count of Powys, León, Gwynedd, Ulster and Fife.

3947 Points

son:
King Cynddylan I, the Great: Farix

Born 5. July 1319
Reigned from 6. October 1326 till 10. January 1354 (28 years)
Died after a period of illness on 10. January 1354 at the age of 35

Inherited the Kingdoms of Hungary and Bohemia, reclaimed all lands in Ireland and current De Jure Wales, and began the conquest of Scotland. Murdered Accidentally killed his Regent and ensured that all future descendants will be dwarves.

King of Wales, Ireland, Scotland, Brittany, León (Elective), Hungary, and Bohemia
Duke of Albany, Gwynedd, and León
Count Powy, Csanad, León, Gwynedd, Ulster, Fife, and Praha

6858 Points

son:
King Conone I, the Good: Zar Peter

Born 14. November 1336
Reigned from 10. January 1354 till 2. December 1370 (16 years)
Died as maimed cripple on 2. December 1370 at the age of 34.

Lost the Kingdoms of Hungary, Leon and Scotland to ursurpers. Lost the Duchy of Tlemcen and the countries in northern Africa. Smashed the Irish rebellion and began the war to reclaim Scotland.

King of Wales, Ireland, Brittany and Bohemia
Duke of Albany, Gwynedd, and León
Count Powys, León, Gwynedd, Ulster and Praha

3411 Points

son:
King Emperor Cynddylan the Great Closet Skeleton

Born 13. March 1356
Reign from 2. December 1370 till 4. December 1432 (62 years)
Died a natural dead at the age of 76

Won his fathers war to reclaim Scotland. Conquered several English duchies and counties. Conquered the Champagne in France. Lost Bohemia but regained parts of it. Regained the Kingdom Leon. Regained parts of Alger. Supported an anti pope and became the first Emperor of Britannia (a title he totally not made up).

Emperor of Britannia
King of Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland, Brittany, Leon and Bohemia
Duke of Tlemcen, Gwynedd and Jerusalem
Count of Powys, Chester, Gwynedd, Ulster, Teviotdale, Middlesex, Wiltshire, Perfeddwlad and Boleslav.

15815 Points

son
Emperor Cyndyllan II the Ill-Fated Grif

Born 30. September 1407
Reign from 4. December 1432 till 17. November 1436 (4 years)
Died after a period of illness (flue?) at the age of 29

Smashed many revolutions. Did nothing of note.

Emperor of Britannia
King of Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland, Brittany, Leon and Bohemia
Duke of Tlemcen and Gwynedd
Count of Powys, Gwynedd, Ulster, Teviotdale, Perfeddwlad and Boleslav.

1785 Points

son
Emperor Cynddylan III of Britannia, the Young: Avaris

Born: 26 November 1426
Reign from 17. November 1436 till 28. January 1443 (9 years),
Died in battle at the age of 16

Ruled through a lengthy regency, but killed in battle by the rebellious King of England two months after becoming ruler in his own right.

Emperor of Britannia
King of Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland, Brittany, Leon and Bohemia
Duke of Tlemcen and Gwynedd
Count of Powys, Gwynedd, Ulster, Teviotdale, Perfeddwlad, Leon and Boleslav.

2194 Points

brother
Emperor Gianleone I of Britannia, the Pope-Slayer: Bling Cat

Born: 18 January 1438
Reigned from 28 January 1443 to 2 January 1453
Not yet Dead

Released England from vassal-hood, delegated power to vassals, stole lots of money from Leinster, then placed his Anti-Pope in Rome.

Emperor of Britannia
King of Wales
Duke of Gwynedd and Tlemcen
Count of Powys, Boleslav, Leon, Gwynedd, Perfeddwlad and Teviotdale

3524 points

Weezer

2013-01-13, 11:35 AM

I'd be up for trying it. Love me some CKII.

Also, your description missed all the best parts. The assasinations, the plotting, the disenfranchising bad heirs by making them bishops, the marrying daughters and then murdering their parents so you inherit. Ahh politics.

Grif

2013-01-13, 11:44 AM

Silfir

2013-01-13, 12:20 PM

This is relevant to my interests.

If at all possible, put me on early enough that I can finish before 8th of February.

I should warn you though, I'm a bit of a goody two shoes when it comes to this game. That means conquest through claim forgery and bloody and relentless war, certainly, but no assassinations except if they get me or my son, like, a kingdom.

But look at me making plans! I'm going to get the 49-year-old depressed drunkard with syphilis anyway.

Weezer

2013-01-13, 01:36 PM

Well with that attitude, that's the kind of ruler you deserve. :smalltongue:

Zar Peter

2013-01-13, 01:45 PM

Stating interest as well. I'm very good at killing my relatives when they threat to inherit my sons propertys...

Flickerdart

2013-01-13, 02:15 PM

I'd be interested. I have all the expansions except the Aztec one, but no mods.

I too tend to play fairly straight edge. My favourite tactic is getting personal unions by marrying queens, but those don't stay single for long.

I propose that we start with a Duchy somewhere nice like Novgorod or Ryazan, where there's plenty of pagans to conquer and no superpowers right next to you to lay claim to your lands. Then when the Mongols show up, we convert them to Christianity and get them to beat up the Muslims for us. Plus, the Russians have really close family ties at the beginning of the game, which makes for some fun assassinating times.

Avaris

2013-01-13, 03:03 PM

I'd certainly be interested. I'm not exactly that good at CKII, but that's half the fun!

Murmaider

2013-01-13, 05:26 PM

Grif

2013-01-13, 07:21 PM

I know Crusader Kings 2 and got fairly decent at it. What I don't know though, how this 'succession game' is working. Will someone just start a game and send his save to the next person as soon as his ruler dies?

That's the idea, yes.

I'm quite pleasantly surprised by the response. I think we can start taking nominations for duchies/counts to start off with.

I personally nominate Connacht of Ireland, but I feel some of you would want a challenge, so one of the Spanish kingdoms might do.

EDIT: I'll add that I have all the DLCs but the Aztec one as well, so it would be prudent to ensure you have at least the Legacy of Rome and Sword of Islam DLC to ensure save compatibility.

Aragehaor

2013-01-13, 08:05 PM

That's the idea, yes.

I'm quite pleasantly surprised by the response. I think we can start taking nominations for duchies/counts to start off with.

I personally nominate Connacht of Ireland, but I feel some of you would want a challenge, so one of the Spanish kingdoms might do.

EDIT: I'll add that I have all the DLCs but the Aztec one as well, so it would be prudent to ensure you have at least the Legacy of Rome and Sword of Islam DLC to ensure save compatibility.

The Spanish kingdoms are a challenge now? i guess Legacy of Rome* changed more then i thought. :smalltongue:

I'm assuming this also includes the normal 'after action' report aspect? Or are we not doing that?

Regardless of the answer i have an interest in joining this. (Assuming your still accepting additional players.)

*While i don't currently own Legacy of Rome it would be trivial for me to buy it.

Grif

2013-01-13, 08:13 PM

The Spanish kingdoms are a challenge now? i guess Legacy of Rome* changed more then i thought. :smalltongue:

I'm assuming this also includes the normal 'after action' report aspect? Or are we not doing that?

Regardless of the answer i have an interest in joining this. (Assuming your still accepting additional players.)

*While i don't currently own Legacy of Rome it would be trivial for me to buy it.

Hey now. Some of us are still learning how to deal with Fatimids (tm). :smallbiggrin: Also, you're missing quite a lot without LoR, since you can't use retinues without it.

Yes, it should include AAR aspect, since that is part of the fun.

I think I shall adopt the Dwarf Fortress community fort style of choosing the next player. After the current ruler dies, the player has to upload the save in the nearest media downloader and prospective players has 24 hours to indicate their interest. Random.org will be used to determine who will get the save and continue the game. Priority will be given to new players first. Sounds fair?

Flickerdart

2013-01-13, 08:22 PM

Ireland is extremely boring. Wales, on the other hand, is quite fun, as you get to pick off English and French lands every time they fragment, and tremble in your boots while they are strong.

Weezer

2013-01-13, 08:29 PM

I second Flickerdart's suggestion. Wales is lots of fun.

Grif

2013-01-13, 08:39 PM

I second Flickerdart's suggestion. Wales is lots of fun.

Since we're in the spirit of things, why not Kingdom of Sicily. Threatened by the Byzantines on one side, hemmed in by the Papal States, and Saracens to the south.

Aragehaor

2013-01-13, 09:23 PM

Hey now. Some of us are still learning how to deal with Fatimids (tm). :smallbiggrin: Also, you're missing quite a lot without LoR, since you can't use retinues without it.
Then maybe i'll get to experience my first hour of crusader kings 2 all over again and run our empire into the ground due to having very little actual experience with Legacy of Rome. :smalltongue:

Yes, it should include AAR aspect, since that is part of the fun.

I think I shall adopt the Dwarf Fortress community fort style of choosing the next player. After the current ruler dies, the player has to upload the save in the nearest media downloader and prospective players has 24 hours to indicate their interest. Random.org will be used to determine who will get the save and continue the game. Priority will be given to new players first. Sounds fair?I have no objections to that. Though i am curious, how long will the player who gets the save have to finish his/her lifespan and then write up his/her after action report?

Ireland is extremely boring. Wales, on the other hand, is quite fun, as you get to pick off English and French lands every time they fragment, and tremble in your boots while they are strong.Could be fun, though that does bring to mind the question on what happens when our family is lost to the ages.

Flickerdart

2013-01-13, 10:16 PM

Oh dear...I've tried Sicily a few times and things have always ended tragically. If we do Sicily, I volunteer not to be on for a few rulers, until we get a decent army or something.

Aragehaor

2013-01-13, 10:23 PM

Oh dear...I've tried Sicily a few times and things have always ended tragically. If we do Sicily, I volunteer not to be on for a few rulers, until we get a decent army or something.

Sicily is a bit luck-based on if you'll survive or not, if i recall correctly. I've had games where a jihad was called against me a month in. On the other hand i've also had games where the Fatimids and company never even bothered to attack me until i started attacking them

Sicily is really a bad idea* for a succession game with players of varying levels of skill unless its been significantly changed in Legacy of Rome.

*Unless we're lucky.

Weezer

2013-01-13, 11:02 PM

Sicily is a bit luck-based on if you'll survive or not, if i recall correctly. I've had games where a jihad was called against me a month in. On the other hand i've also had games where the Fatimids and company never even bothered to attack me until i started attacking them

Sicily is really a bad idea* for a succession game with players of varying levels of skill unless its been significantly changed in Legacy of Rome.

*Unless we're lucky.

Then we start again, and embrace the FUN.

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-13, 11:22 PM

Sicily where it works out can be quite a power, with the entire Mediterranean open to you for expansion.

Grif

2013-01-14, 12:07 AM

Sicily where it works out can be quite a power, with the entire Mediterranean open to you for expansion.

That's assuming the Byzantines or Fatimids don't want your head on a pike first. :smallwink: As far as I know, Byzantines has a claim on one of the province in Sicily and wouldn't hesitate to press it.

Okay, so far our choices seems to be:
Novogrod/Ryzan/Rus (or any Russian duchies)

Duchy of Apulia (Kingdom of Sicily)

Wales (Any one of the duchies)

Any more? :smalltongue:

I'll grab screenshots of each individual duchies when I have the chance, so that you guys can better assess the options.

Flickerdart

2013-01-14, 12:20 AM

Byzantium has a claim on a massive chunk of Italy, and the HRE on the other half. They're both busy with wars and revolts at the start, but who knows...

Of the Russian provinces, in terms of difficulty, I would say Rostov is the easiest to start with (since it's right next to tasty pagans and can form Rus' easily), and Ryazan is second (same reasons, can form Ruthenia). Novgorod is tougher, especially after Rostov forms Rus' and declares war on you, but it's more Mongol-proof during that stage of the game. If you assassinate or disinherit the Ryazan heir, then that Duke's heir becomes the Duke of Rostov, which sets you up to form both Rus' and Ruthenia. Kinslaying is kind of unfortunate, though...

We could also try and win Hardrada's invasion of England, but without a ton of luck, it's hard to pull off.

Murmaider

2013-01-14, 12:48 AM

Iceland! Definitly Iceland!:smallbiggrin:

Jokes aside, I'd vote for some Iberian king or one of the russian duchies. Wales looks fun and all but it seems to me just as the Irish counties, just neighbouring England instead of Scotland.

But I wonder, if the new DLC is coming out next week, will I be able to participate?

Meh, scratch that, brainfart.

Silfir

2013-01-14, 04:49 AM

Aw, DLCs? I don't have any of them. Are they obligatory? I mean, you could deactivate them and start a vanilla CK II game to ensure maximum compatibility, right?

Kurgan

2013-01-14, 04:59 AM

Possibly interested. Have Sword of Islam and Legacy of Rome, plus a few of the fancy sprite packs that are of no consequence.

For faction, why not start small? A county in say Hungary or Poland? Both are smallish kingdoms with lots of room to expand but close enough to the HRE and the Eastern Roman Empire to be in danger. Also, if we don't expand fast enough we might be fighting wars with Denmark, Sweden, and the Russian princes to get pagan lands.

On a side note, is anyone else super excited about the new DLC that unlocks republics?

Trixie

2013-01-14, 05:39 AM

I could be interested, too? Have both SoI and LoR...

Gamerlord

2013-01-14, 06:21 AM

If there is any room, I would be interested as well. I have all DLCs except the Aztec one and the Russian Unit/Portrait/Song packs.

Aragehaor

2013-01-14, 06:30 AM

Then we start again, and embrace the FUN.If that's the case then we simply have to play as Nubia. :smallbiggrin:

For faction, why not start small? A county in say Hungary or Poland? Both are smallish kingdoms with lots of room to expand but close enough to the HRE and the Eastern Roman Empire to be in danger. Also, if we don't expand fast enough we might be fighting wars with Denmark, Sweden, and the Russian princes to get pagan lands.
I'd vote for starting as a count, Don't especially care who though.

On a side note, is anyone else super excited about the new DLC that unlocks republics?
Wait, that's been announced? Excellent.

Grif

2013-01-14, 06:47 AM

Aw, DLCs? I don't have any of them. Are they obligatory? I mean, you could deactivate them and start a vanilla CK II game to ensure maximum compatibility, right?

They are indeed optional, ergo, that's part of why I'm asking here. Disabling them disables retinues though, so that would put one useful tool out of commission. Retinues are simply hands-down one of the best private army you can have aside from your own demesne troops. (and Templars).

Silfir

2013-01-14, 07:07 AM

I've read about retinues. Sounds like they make the game easier for the player to a fair degree (since they can make more of additional options than the AI), which if we're hoping on copious amounts of fun is the opposite of what we want, right? Though if indeed everyone but me has all these DLCs I wouldn't want to get in the way...

I vote for something on a coast, so we can go everywhere by boat to press our fraudulent claims. How about the Kingdom of Navarra, switching to absolute agnatic at the first opportunity so our ruling dynasty won't turn out to be a total sausagefest?

Grif

2013-01-14, 07:17 AM

Well... if we're playing some of the harder starts, then retinues are quite invaluable. (Especially IF we choose Nubia.)

That brings up a point. I would rather if everyone would stay off elective succession as a rule. I consider them to be rather gamey and ahistorical.

Only Gavelkind (always fun), Primo or Seniority allowed. :smalltongue:

Silfir

2013-01-14, 07:49 AM

Playing as Nubia makes the entire succession game about desperate and frantic survival against the muslim threat, the way I look at it; playing as a Catholic county or duchy on the mainland leaves a lot more options in all directions, as long as you stay outside of the HRE. Sounds a bit more fun to me.

I'm a Primo guy all the way - once we can establish it - but personally I believe succession games are the most fun if the players in charge are actually in charge - for as long as they are. If your ruler has the opportunity to switch succession laws and if, roleplaying him, you think he would - then you should be allowed to just do it. If the result is decades, no, hundreds of years of constant political turmoil as each insane ruler forces their own political preferences on the realm... that sounds like much more fun than four hundred years of plain, universally agreed primogeniture.

(For the record, Seniority seems a bit unfortunate for the purpose of a succession game because it causes so many successions overall.)

Grif

2013-01-14, 08:53 AM

RPGuru1331

2013-01-14, 09:12 AM

That brings up a point. I would rather if everyone would stay off elective succession as a rule. I consider them to be rather gamey and ahistorical.

...because the Vassals easily agree with the king, or what? I don't use Electives because I'm perpetually paralyzed by the possibility of an out-of-dynasty succession, so if it's incredibly easy to cause the heir to be who you want, I'm not surprised (The Salians always seem to be the HRE for me, unless HEinrich dies ASAP). Elective Kings really were a thing, though, and a major one at that, that people undersell. It's Primogeniture Errywhere, after a century tops, that's the unrealistic part. Granted, AFAIK the electives were closer to the Tanistry succession getting added sometime today.

I'm surprised there's so much interest in this. I'm not planning on joining myself, mind, I'm just surprised given the lack of talk elsewhere.

Sprinter

2013-01-14, 09:52 AM

.
I'm surprised there's so much interest in this. I'm not planning on joining myself, mind, I'm just surprised given the lack of talk elsewhere.

Im not so suprised CK II is strategy game of year 2012 and very interesting game to LP. I would join but i dont have LoR and i had to stop playing CK II because of unexplainable space time anomalies. :smallbiggrin:

Grif

2013-01-14, 10:05 AM

Im not so suprised CK II is strategy game of year 2012 and very interesting game to LP. I would join but i dont have LoR and i had to stop playing CK II because of unexplainable space time anomalies. :smallbiggrin:

I guess in the interest of letting everyone join, it would be best to waive the DLC requirement and play a completely vanilla game. It would be more challenging... :smallwink:

Zar Peter

2013-01-14, 11:31 AM

Damn, and just now I convinced myself to buy the DLC's just for the succesion game.

Well, have to think for an other reason to spend the 15 € for this.

RPGuru1331

2013-01-14, 11:34 AM

Zar Peter

2013-01-14, 02:23 PM

Because the expansions are really good and really interesting? The Sword of Islam is a fairly sizable and interesting change over standard Christian nobility. The Republic I'm majorly excited for, and I just need it to be released to start out. I haven't played much of the Byzantines before Legacy of Rome, but it's pretty neat now, and I rather like what Orthodox Christians look like now (though I don't think it requires Legacy of Rome). Retinues are also interesting, and an LoR thing only.

Well, it's just that although I like this game a lot I completely suck at it. My greatest failure was when I, as king of Denmark, couldn't efford the hired soliders, who should quench down a revolution, anymore and the buggers turned against me. :smalleek:

Kurgan

2013-01-14, 03:13 PM

Because the expansions are really good and really interesting? The Sword of Islam is a fairly sizable and interesting change over standard Christian nobility. The Republic I'm majorly excited for, and I just need it to be released to start out. I haven't played much of the Byzantines before Legacy of Rome, but it's pretty neat now, and I rather like what Orthodox Christians look like now (though I don't think it requires Legacy of Rome). Retinues are also interesting, and an LoR thing only.

Um...it is out (http://www.gamersgate.com/DLC-CK2R/crusader-kings-ii-the-republic). (note: if you use steam for Crusader Kings, don't buy it here)

Mind you, I always wait for the inevitable 75% off sale before buying the dlcs. And for those of you planning on buying the dlcs, I suggest that as well. Gamersgate and Steam have the game on sale probably once every 2 months.

Weezer

2013-01-14, 03:25 PM

Um...it is out (http://www.gamersgate.com/DLC-CK2R/crusader-kings-ii-the-republic). (note: if you use steam for Crusader Kings, don't buy it here)

TO be fair it went live about 6 hours ago, so not really his fault he didn't know it was released.

Trixie

2013-01-14, 04:52 PM

I vote for something on a coast, so we can go everywhere by boat to press our fraudulent claims. How about the Kingdom of Navarra, switching to absolute agnatic at the first opportunity so our ruling dynasty won't turn out to be a total sausagefest?

I vote we switch to gender equality Agnatic succession anyway, makes it more interesting. At least for me. All you need to do is to change one letter in save file ^^

Aragehaor

2013-01-14, 05:06 PM

Well... if we're playing some of the harder starts, then retinues are quite invaluable. (Especially IF we choose Nubia.)
I was really mostly joking when i suggested Nubia.

I'd personally enjoy playing as any of the previously mentioned suggestions, although i prefer counts.

However, if pressed to vote i'd have to vote for wales as it is the only suggestion i actually haven't tried before.

TO be fair it went live about 6 hours ago, so not really his fault he didn't know it was released.I wasnt aware it was even announced until this thread. Shows how much attention I've been paying to crusader kings 2.

EDIT: as far as laws go, an eccentric ruling caste that cant make up its mind on inheritance laws sounds fine to me. :smalltongue:

Trixie

2013-01-14, 05:34 PM

I see CK2 patch just distributed on Steam, adding a few new inheritance laws. Hmm.

Maybe they added something better? Must investigate.

Weezer

2013-01-14, 05:58 PM

I see CK2 patch just distributed on Steam, adding a few new inheritance laws. Hmm.

Maybe they added something better? Must investigate.

It has one that would be interesting for the succession game, Ultimogeniture is inheritance by the youngest son of the ruler. It would result in far longer turns, not sure if that's good or bad per se.

Silfir

2013-01-14, 06:27 PM

I can see it already...

1214: Ascended to throne. As first royal edict, went doody in the diaper.
1215: Spoke first word: "Candy". Got some.
1216: Asked for even more candy. Didn't get it. Threw temper tantrum. Got the cane.
1221: Had to do homework. Tried to make servant do it. Didn't work. Got the cane.
1223: Gave other kid a toy because I had so many. Got the cane.
1224: Lunch tasted funny. Spent weeks in bed throwing up. Older brother is in jail, no idea why.
1229: After receiving many years of education, finally understand the basic principles of statesmanship, court policy, and war.
1230: Officially came of age and granted the sceptre and rule of the realm! Regent departed on diplomatic business, suspiciously absent. Royal treasury suspiciously empty. No matter, so many plans, just waiting for the war chest to refill!
1231: Married 16-year old Midas Touched Genius from somewhere in Finland. Follows a religion I can't pronounce, but the blood rituals in the backyard don't look very Christian. Is way smarter than me and hates my guts. Chancellor insists that was somehow a good idea.
1232: Fathered little baby boy. Surely my virility shall be unmatched among my dynasty.
1233: Died of typhus. Next!

Selrahc

2013-01-14, 06:31 PM

I see CK2 patch just distributed on Steam, adding a few new inheritance laws. Hmm.

Maybe they added something better? Must investigate.

Tanistry. Like elective, except only members of your dynasty are eligible. They've pitched it as though your vassals will vote for the most incompetent member of your dynasty though... so maybe not as powerful as the initial reading would seem.

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-14, 07:28 PM

Tanistry. Like elective, except only members of your dynasty are eligible. They've pitched it as though your vassals will vote for the most incompetent member of your dynasty though... so maybe not as powerful as the initial reading would seem.

I believe it's where they favour uncles and more distant relations? I can't be bothered to look up what it actually is though.

Selrahc

2013-01-14, 08:09 PM

I believe it's where they favour uncles and more distant relations? I can't be bothered to look up what it actually is though.

Looks like it's only for the Celtic factions anyway, so it probably won't be relevant here.

And Ultimogeniture is only for pagans... so even less relevant.

EDIT: One thing the current patch apparently does do however, is to let you play as a patrician family in Pisa even without the republic patch. That sounds interesting. Patrician families get some of the spoils from their dynastic brethren in the merchant republics.

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-14, 08:22 PM

Looks like it's only for the Celtic factions anyway, so it probably won't be relevant here.

And Ultimogeniture is only for pagans... so even less relevant.

EDIT: One thing the current patch apparently does do however, is to let you play as a patrician family in Pisa even without the republic patch. That sounds interesting. Patrician families get some of the spoils from their dynastic brethren in the merchant republics.

Ah, so a edit MEMBER OF A (I suck at completing sentences lately) Patrician family that is titled nobility? Iiiiinteresting.

Flickerdart

2013-01-14, 08:40 PM

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-14, 08:46 PM

Wait, you can play pagans now (without modding)?

Does the Republic expansion allow you to play only the republics mentioned in the entry (which don't seem very much like countries, and more like merchant companies) or actual Republics (i.e. Novgorod at the time of the Mongols)?

Specifically it only changes the ones mentioned... The Merchant Republics, not Novgorod which was very unique, nor the city-state republics of Germany.

Grif

2013-01-14, 08:59 PM

Hm, would have to investigate the new patch.

(Sorry, still no access to my gaming PC. Stuff came up.)

Closet_Skeleton

2013-01-15, 08:40 AM

Specifically it only changes the ones mentioned... The Merchant Republics, not Novgorod which was very unique, nor the city-state republics of Germany.

It changes duke or higher tier coastal capital republics. So you can create more but are pretty limited in your choices on unmodded start dates.

You can play Lubeck on later start dates, but Pskov and Novgorod aren't coastal despite being merchant states. Hamburg was changed to be coastal by turning the river into part of sea zone it previously lead into.

RPGuru1331

2013-01-15, 09:41 AM

TO be fair it went live about 6 hours ago, so not really his fault he didn't know it was released.

Oh, I knew it was out... on GAmersgate. I was griping about it not being on Steam yet. I eventually bought a GMG copy (with redeem code, because I deserve it after waiting the better part of a day >___________<)

From what I'm told by others, not only is it still not out on Steam, but Steam stopped redeeming GMG codes until they've released it.

Ah, so a edit MEMBER OF A (I suck at completing sentences lately) Patrician family that is titled nobility? Iiiiinteresting.
ACtually no, that guy is a 'count', but his capital holding is still a City, and he's a Patrician through and through. I used it too, initially. Patricians are really, really, REALLY funny, and are major fans of offing each other, fyi.

Thus far, I haven't had anyone live long enough to get 'kinsman', so I haven't seen any of the "Distant kin marry off on their own" thing. You are *not* nobility as a PAtrician - marrying into the nobility is super expensive. Your best bet is frankly to actually hire a debutante, until your income is amazing.

The Coastal Seizure CB is really fun and really mean, because it permits you to pick on One Province Minors who would otherwise be untouchable to playing normally (Say, Malta). The Family Estate is *really good*, btw, and it's pretty funny how individual buildings are stronger than on castles. I mean, I get it, but you'd think it'd take more than one small stable to top the nobility's ability to bring in cavalry... XD

The FAmily Estate also has buildings to buff you. They're pretty fun-seeming, but I've been too focused maintaining trade dominance to really build up my holdings. I'm pleasantly surprised that a Trade Outpost is a lot more money, over time, than a normal building upgrade (But trade outposts without garrison can be seized really frickin' easily)

Does the Republic expansion allow you to play only the republics mentioned in the entry (which don't seem very much like countries
They were - and are - both.

Flickerdart

2013-01-15, 11:08 AM

It changes duke or higher tier coastal capital republics. So you can create more but are pretty limited in your choices on unmodded start dates.

You can play Lubeck on later start dates, but Pskov and Novgorod aren't coastal despite being merchant states. Hamburg was changed to be coastal by turning the river into part of sea zone it previously lead into.
Novgorod isn't coastal? They had Baltic access (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/63/Novgorod1400.png) and traded extensively with the Hanseatic League.

Closet_Skeleton

2013-01-15, 11:38 AM

Novgorod isn't coastal? They had Baltic access (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/63/Novgorod1400.png) and traded extensively with the Hanseatic League.

Its coastal capital. Novgorod is on a lake and connected to the baltic by rivers
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Outline_Map_of_Novgorod_Oblast.svg

There wasn't a major city on the Russian part of the baltic until St Petersberg was built in 1703.

You can load up the game as a Russian, build time displaced St Petersberg, give the mayor a duchy, save and reload the game as your new anachronistic state.

Grif

2013-01-16, 02:42 AM

Alright. In the interest of moving things along, I think we can skip the patch for the time being and see if we can get things started. Vote now for your count/duke/king of choice!

Now! From the thread, the nominated choices are:
Duke Bleddyn I of Gwynedd
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/193207/o5tdVF7.jpg
One of the largest Welsh duchies, poor Gwynedd is hemmed in to the East by England, and surrounded by petty Welsh counts and a fragmented Ireland to the north.

King Sancho II of Castile
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/193208/n8MVFgjfWJ.jpg
One of the smaller Christian Spanish kingdoms, Castille faces enemies on all sides. Traitorous relatives surround you, and the Moors control Southern Spain.

Duke Robert I of Apulia
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/193210/O412Gn9FytA.jpg
Apulia is nominally a strong and rich duchy. However, the Papal States and Holy Roman Empire lie to your north, the Byzantines have claims to most of your territorry and the dreaded Fatimids lie across the sea and would not hesitate to wage jihad to claim Italy for their own.

Grand Prince Vsevolod I of Rostov
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/193212/8qiRSm2Wjx.jpg

Rostov is large, and controls a significant chunk of land. However, you have no vassals and you hold too much lands to be able to control it effectively. In addition, you're also bordered by pagans and other ambitious Russian princes.

Sprinter

2013-01-16, 03:45 AM

I vote on rostov as i havent seen any LP with Rostov yet :)

Silfir

2013-01-16, 06:04 AM

Rostov would be interesting, but pagans will also kick our butts and we have no coastal provinces whatsoever, severely limiting our options. Castille is already a kingdom and I'd like to work my way up to that.

That leaves Apulia and Gwynedd. I'll have to vote for Gwynedd simply because it's much, much smaller. That means, we get to have more rulers before we become too powerful for the game to be interesting and have to consciously interject a terrible ruler. Which, admittedly, might be fun to roleplay. But I also vote for Gwynedd because I think Welsh is a fun culture and language.

I've become king of Sicily with a foothold in Tunis within two or three generations of Drengots (Capua) before - with unchanged difficulty, admittedly. Apulia might be a tad too big. But for what it's worth, it'd be my second choice.

Grif

2013-01-16, 07:26 AM

I've become king of Sicily with a foothold in Tunis within two or three generations of Drengots (Capua) before - with unchanged difficulty, admittedly. Apulia might be a tad too big. But for what it's worth, it'd be my second choice.

From what I hear, Apulia is difficult precisely because it's so big and so many factions want a piece of it. Starting with Capua is easier in this regard because you can pick off Apulia when it's being distracted. :smalltongue:

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-16, 07:44 AM

I love this game, that a big country isn't necessarily an easier one.

I vote Gwynedd as #1 and Castille as #2 because those are the families that I'm descended from, of the choices.

Sprinter

2013-01-16, 07:49 AM

Rostov would be interesting, but pagans will also kick our butts

I always thought that playing pagan was extra hard because pretty much everyone can freely declare holy war on you.

Silfir

2013-01-16, 08:16 AM

Rostov being placed where it is, it's a more pressing issue that everyone around you can declare Holy War on you because you're Christian. Pagans in this part of the world are very much in the majority and quite willing to rush to the defense of their brothers in faith if you try to declare a Holy War of your own, whereas your brethren will almost certainly be not quite as eager. My experience of this might be inaccurate since the last time I played a dude in this area was with CK+.

You might be thinking of being Pagan or heretics in the middle of Europe, when any potential religious allies hate your guts because your culture is far removed from theirs and wouldn't be able to defend you in time anyway, and any neighbouring infidels around you will quite appreciate any excuse to expand their territory.

Murmaider

2013-01-16, 08:32 AM

Rostov being placed where it is, it's a more pressing issue that everyone around you can declare Holy War on you because you're Christian. Pagans in this part of the world are very much in the majority and quite willing to rush to the defense of their brothers in faith if you try to declare a Holy War of your own, whereas your brethren will almost certainly be not quite as eager. My experience of this might be inaccurate since the last time I played a dude in this area was with CK+.

The thing when playing any of the russian dukes is, that you're allied with four other dukes, which can amass together an army of about 12k men. Because of gamedesign you can just declare holy war on any pagan nation nearby, except maybe Cumania and always have support from your allies, simply because 'we like you more than your enemies'.

I vote for Castille, because I'd like to see an Iberian Empire for once and not another Spain divided among HRE and France:smalleek:

Silfir

2013-01-16, 08:47 AM

Ah, that explains it. Of course! I play CK+ with Shattered World, so there is no huge Rurikovich dynasty to call on. If it's that easy to expand, though, that's all the more reason not to go there.

Zar Peter

2013-01-16, 09:05 AM

I vote for Gwynedd, and second Rostov.

Flickerdart

2013-01-16, 09:37 AM

Voting for Rostov. In a world of backstabbing traitors, it's nice to know that you can rely on your family to support you...and then backstab them. :smallbiggrin:

Grif

2013-01-16, 09:40 AM

The thing when playing any of the russian dukes is, that you're allied with four other dukes, which can amass together an army of about 12k men. Because of gamedesign you can just declare holy war on any pagan nation nearby, except maybe Cumania and always have support from your allies, simply because 'we like you more than your enemies'.

I vote for Castille, because I'd like to see an Iberian Empire for once and not another Spain divided among HRE and France:smalleek:
Uh. I see a French Spain, but HRE? :smallconfused:

As the votes stand now:
Rostov: 2
Gwynedd: 2
Castille: 1

Silfir

2013-01-16, 10:30 AM

Grif

2013-01-16, 10:36 AM

I had a Castillian Wessex, once, while the Muslims ruled all of Spain. (Was the only Spanish kingdom to survive... for a time.)

The HRE will end up in the unlikeliest of places. If it's stable and decides it wants something the Muslims have anyone else has, it's hard to stop.

Also, that's three times Gwynedd: Me, Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll and Zar Peter.

Right. Missed Zar Peter's :smallredface:

Updated vote count:
Rostov: 2
Gwynedd: 3
Castille: 1

EDIT: On the subject of tutoring your own children, do we allow this? It would be more fun to send them off to a random noble to be mentored under. :smallwink:

Weezer

2013-01-16, 01:48 PM

I'll add my vote for Gwynedd. Love me some British Isles.

Gamerlord

2013-01-16, 01:48 PM

I think I will vote for Castille.

Silfir

2013-01-16, 02:27 PM

I think players should simply pick the tutor for their children that their ruler would pick. A slothful ruler would never bother to tutor anyone, for instance. A kind ruler might not want to send them away from home. A prideful ruler might feel that no one else could provide them with the proper guidance in life. A zealous ruler would never allow a cynic to handle their child's upbringing, similar to how a brave ruler would disqualify a craven on principle and so on. A paranoid ruler would not risk a stranger harming their child and would only let himself or maybe characters they have a high opinion of tutor them.

More complicated interactions are possible; a kind ruler who also suffers from Wroth would not want to inflict their terrible temper on their child. A humble ruler is more likely to be self-critical and recognize their own flaws and try to make sure the child won't suffer from them (and would be unlikely to pick himself as a tutor, since they'd nearly always be sure someone else could do better, being humble); a humble, but gluttonous character might choose a temperate tutor for that reason.

The possibilities for roleplay are numerous, and they should depend on the character players create for their ruler, rather than an arbitrary rule set before the game starts, and the ultimate prerogative left to the players individually (writing an interesting AAR is hard enough). It's more interesting that way, I think.

If the player does pick himself for a tutor, the decisions should be roleplay-guided, too; like prideful rulers picking to brag about their child's qualities to the entire court and so on.

snoopy13a

2013-01-16, 02:47 PM

Avaris

2013-01-16, 02:56 PM

Gywneed is a fun choice because becoming King of Wales and later King of Ireland are fairly achievable.

I'm not voting, however, as I'm not going to participate. I probably haven't played as much as most people here, and I don't want the pressure of becoming the "weak link" while playing a video game.

Honestly, in this game a 'weak link' is possibly even more fun than someone who knows what they're doing...

On which note, I vote Gwyneed. Not sure I'll have the chance to play, but will watch with interest.

Zar Peter

2013-01-16, 03:19 PM

Honestly, in this game a 'weak link' is possibly even more fun than someone who knows what they're doing...

I think that's why I signed up for this :smallbiggrin:

More FUN

Narkis

2013-01-16, 03:23 PM

I'll vote for Rostov. The Russians are fun, and the Mongols shake things up nicely just when you're starting to get confortable.

And sign me up to play a ruler too!

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-16, 04:53 PM

I've always seen HRE going for Aragon and Catalonia, while France goes for Castille and Navarre.
Then again, last time I played a game, France was divided between Elective France and Capetian Brittany (who really owned like a full half of France), and then both kingdoms decided to join the Mostly-Capetian-but-Elective Latin Empire, who then lost all of their Greek territories after some random Duchess in the south of Burgundy seized the throne and then expanded in Spain, which had been unified by Muslims. Edit: Oh yeah then the Capetians lost Brittany as well, and it became elective as well, so you had two rival Kingdom of France's within a Latin Empire, all 3 elective.

Oh and in the Holy Roman Empire, one family had control for the longest time of the Kingdoms of Bohemia, Lithuania and Lotharingia, all seperate (though Lotharingia went Elective). Also an independent Kingdom of Lombardy. Also IRELAND was painted over England and Ireland. Ireland inherited England. I was in hysterics.

And yet, one sign over how much better this game is then CKI, or EU3 is that it all made SENSE.

I ended up losing that game: being a Polish duke on the HRE-Poland border didn't work out that well... the HRE took almost all the Baltic except a tiny corner I conquered, but then they took constant advantage of Poland being weakened in wars against Galicia at first, then Hungary, then the Golden Horde, then the Ilkhanate... I lost that one.

I play very unambitiously, very cautiously, and very RPedly. My line were, on the most part, devout supporters of the Piasts, even fighting during the Time of Troubles against 2 different Usurpers, one of them Hungarian too, and every time I had an opportunity to grab land within Poland, Silesia would look at me sternly and I would be like "eep". Seriously, Silesia was a beast in that game...
That game actually ended when every single other lord in Poland teamed up against me. Every. Single. One. (except the Queen).

Kurgan

2013-01-16, 05:09 PM

My vote is for Castille, never actually played a Spain game before, and I am curious how it will pan out.

Flickerdart

2013-01-16, 07:18 PM

Galicia

Galich. Galicia is in Iberia.

Silfir

2013-01-16, 07:25 PM

For all you know it could have totally been Galicia. Some dukes end up holding land and titles in the strangest places ;)

Trixie

2013-01-16, 07:33 PM

I vote all of the above? http://i.imgur.com/N2nfK.jpg

Kurgan

2013-01-16, 07:45 PM

On child rearing, I'll say right now, a good chunk of the fun for me IS raising my children to either follow in my footsteps, be awesome, be horrible, or be somewhere in the middle, so I say we do as the current player feels like there.

Curious: are we going to use default for first ruler, or build him/her from scratch with the ruler creator?

Grif

2013-01-16, 08:11 PM

Flickerdart

2013-01-16, 09:09 PM

Dang it, Eire is just so boring for the first couple hundred years though. Sign me up somewhere towards the end of the queue for when we're already Grey Eminence Geniuses ruling Britannia.

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-16, 10:34 PM

Galich. Galicia is in Iberia.

Wait, since when was Galicia in Iberia? http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4d/Georgian_States_Colchis_and_Iberia_(600-150BC)-en.svg/250px-Georgian_States_Colchis_and_Iberia_(600-150BC)-en.svg.png

Heh.

Anyhow, Galicia-Lodomeria is the Latinate version of Galich, which is the one that I grew up in. My grandparents would tell me "we're from Galicia", so that's what I know.

Zar Peter

2013-01-17, 01:51 AM

Trixie

2013-01-17, 06:07 AM

Dang it, Eire is just so boring for the first couple hundred years though. Sign me up somewhere towards the end of the queue for when we're already Grey Eminence Geniuses ruling Britannia.

? :smallconfused:

Eire is boring? I am playing Ireland right now, my first ruler jumped from count to duke, his son, on his 55th year of reign now, is King of Ireland and Wales (ok, half of Wales) and has Isles Duchy in Scotland now. Though, now all I worked for is going to splinter to his 11 kids (including 10 daughters) as my favourite tactic 'dump all titles on one child as soon as you suspect death is coming' no longer works (and inheritance changes are limited) :smallfrown:

You're aware that up to this point there is the chance that some idiot ruler ends up in jail and there is no Eire to inherit? Just saying...

? :smallconfused:

Zar Peter

2013-01-17, 06:35 AM

? :smallconfused:

I meant myself of course. Trying to poison other rulers to inherit their countries tend to lead to imprisonment and your family will lose the lands... What do we do if the line ends? Start again in the same country or in country Nr. 2?

Grif

2013-01-17, 07:08 AM

I meant myself of course. Trying to poison other rulers to inherit their countries tend to lead to imprisonment and your family will lose the lands... What do we do if the line ends? Start again in the same country or in country Nr. 2?

I think it's best we take it as they come at this point. :smallwink:

If all goes well, I'll kick off as Gwynedd by the weekend and then put the save up for the next player to continue.

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-17, 02:46 PM

Trixie

2013-01-17, 02:46 PM

I meant myself of course. Trying to poison other rulers to inherit their countries tend to lead to imprisonment and your family will lose the lands... What do we do if the line ends? Start again in the same country or in country Nr. 2?

Imprisonment? :smallconfused:

For me, assassin wars always ended up with both sides executing each other, at which point my new character usually pointed out that he/she simply had nothing to do with the dead tyrant and hey, can I already inherit all these suddenly freed lands? :smallcool:

But then again, I usually get out of imprisoning umbrella of anyone but the strongest king.

Also, speaking of my 'new patch test' game, my pious king ended his life after 77 year long reign and 14 children, surviving first two, even. I am barely in the middle of line of his kids (seniority inheritance) and there are already grand-grandkids out there :smallbiggrin:

Zar Peter

2013-01-17, 03:33 PM

Well, when I played the danish king, when the mercenaries didn't get paid and revolted against me and set up a mercenary kingdom in Danemark, they reinstated me as Lord! I plotted against them, of course, I was in prison, I payed, was reinstated, plotted against them, imprisonment... I think after the fourth imprisonment they lost their temper and beheaded my character.

Aragehaor

2013-01-18, 05:12 AM

Uh. I see a French Spain, but HRE? :smallconfused:
My favorite Spain is Knights Templar Spain. (Is that even still possible? Probably.)

Dang it, Eire is just so boring for the first couple hundred years though. Sign me up somewhere towards the end of the queue for when we're already Grey Eminence Geniuses ruling Britannia.

I'm pretty sure Gwynedd isn't in Eire. ('Course, i am rather sick currently so i could just be completely misunderstanding you.)

Also, not that this vote would make any difference whatsoever but i vote for Gwynedd.

Flickerdart

2013-01-18, 01:50 PM

My favorite Spain is Knights Templar Spain. (Is that even still possible? Probably.)

I'm pretty sure Gwynedd isn't in Eire. ('Course, i am rather sick currently so i could just be completely misunderstanding you.)

Also, not that this vote would make any difference whatsoever but i vote for Gwynedd.
Oh, I thought they were an Irish land. Derp.

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-18, 04:40 PM

Oh, I thought they were an Irish land. Derp.

Welsh, not Irish. Similar, but with more risk. Less room to expand against equal-sized enemies, and if England looks at you... So you have much less breathing room early on, is my thinking. Once you unify Wales though, if you make your alliances right you should be able to deter England and then strike when they're weak.

Flickerdart

2013-01-18, 07:12 PM

Yeah, I've played Wales before, and around the time you unite Wales, the English nobles get tired of that bastard William and revolt en masse.

Grif

2013-01-18, 09:19 PM

So, this guy won by a landslide.

Duke Bleddyn I of Gwynedd
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/193207/o5tdVF7.jpg
One of the largest Welsh duchies, poor Gwynedd is hemmed in to the East by England, and surrounded by petty Welsh counts and a fragmented Ireland to the north.

:smallwink:

Alright. I'll kick off the first turn and try my best not to die to the filthy English before you guys get to mess around. :smalltongue:

(Hm, might just do a semi-IC-esque AAR post.)

Flickerdart

2013-01-19, 02:32 PM

When do we do dibs on turns, after yours is done?

Avaris

2013-01-19, 05:13 PM

When do we do dibs on turns, after yours is done?

I actually wonder whether people should start bidding now, so we can have a quicker handover when this turn is finished.

From my understanding, the plan is that people say they want the next turn, and are then one person is selected at random to play. To make it fair, we probably want at least 24 hrs for people to put their name in the hat. I suggest that the deadline be '24 hours after the first person puts their name into consideration, or when the save file is available, whichever is later.' That way we can have a quick hand over when the save file is available, and people won't actually know what is happening in the game before they bid! Can't choose our parents after all!

Also, I would be highly amused if other people took on each save game, to see how else history could end... obviously we keep one as the official history.

Flickerdart

2013-01-19, 05:21 PM

It could be fun if everyone, immediately upon handing over the save, declared war on the HRE and fought to the bitter end, just to see how we'd do.

Trixie

2013-01-19, 05:43 PM

I actually wonder whether people should start bidding now, so we can have a quicker handover when this turn is finished.

Maybe everyone who was interested so far should get a number in order of asking, then some dice rolling site would decide the order...? :smallconfused:

If someone can't make it, he would drop to end of the queue, likewise with new joins and players who want to play again?

Weezer

2013-01-19, 06:25 PM

It could be fun if everyone, immediately upon handing over the save, declared war on the HRE and fought to the bitter end, just to see how we'd do.

Seems like a fun side track to go on. We could record how long it takes to get crushed by the HRE, and use that information as a track of how powerful our realm gets. We could even graph it. I love graphs.

Silfir

2013-01-19, 06:30 PM

I guess within those 24 hours people who haven't played yet would get preference over those who have? And those people subjected to the dice roll?

Aragehaor

2013-01-19, 06:38 PM

Unrelated, but how long does someone have after playing their turn to write up/post their After-Action-Report?

(And also, does anyone know of a free program that would allow me to save a great deal of screenshots while playing? if the program is also a decent editing program that'd be a plus.)

Edit: Also, i approve of suiciding Wales against the HRE for giggles(And i suppose also to judge the strength of Wales vs the HRE. The chart would have to account for the shifting manpower of both Wales and the HRE though, as if the HRE is having a bad day they'll have less legions for us to throw ourselves upon.

Gamerlord

2013-01-19, 06:40 PM

Aragehaor

2013-01-19, 06:49 PM

Have you tried FRAPS? You can only take screenshots in a BMP format however.

Just gave it a quick go, looks like it'll work mostly perfectly.

Thank you.

Flickerdart

2013-01-19, 07:16 PM

Steam lets you grab screenshots without needing an external program, but Fraps is pretty nice (since it can do movies if you pay for it).

IthilanorStPete

2013-01-19, 08:18 PM

This'll be really interesting to watch! I just picked up CK2 a week or so ago; started in Ireland, two centuries later I'm the king of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Andalusia, and Aquitaine. I don't feel nearly good enough to participate in this succession game, but I'll gladly enjoy the craziness that ensues.

Is there a general thread for this game on here?

Grif

2013-01-19, 08:21 PM

I'll be using Steam for most part. (Convenient for me.)

However, I believe there're a few more apps out there for grabbing screenshots handily. One that I used for Dwarf Fortress was ScreenHunter. The only odd thing about it was the colour loss in the .jpg files it created.

As for the turn order, I prefer if we waited till the end of a player's turn before letting people put their names into their hat. After all, our schedules may vary and one may not be available to continue the game if something crops up. So, after I (and any other player) post the save and AAR here, interested players will have 24 hours to post their interest in this thread. Random.org will then be used to determine who gets the next turn. The only thing I'm undecided on is whether or not to give new players (those who haven't played this succession game yet) priority.

Silfir

2013-01-19, 08:40 PM

At the very least those who haven't played at all should take priority. If they speak up within the 24 hours!

Narkis

2013-01-19, 08:43 PM

Agreed. Of there's even one player who expresses interest and hasn't had his turn yet, he should get priority. Keeps the RNG from screwing anyone, as they are so apt to do.:smallwink:

Grif

2013-01-20, 02:09 AM

Okay, finished my turn. Will be posting up the save and AAR later (after I sort out all my screenshots.)

Short summary for those who want spoilers in advance:
- United Wales (got lucky with claims)
- Married off daughter/sons to Scotland and Spain.
- Instated promigeniture and Low Feudal Taxes
- Usurped the duchy of Deheubarth. We have enough to form the Kingdom of Wales if the next player so wishes.
- Crapton of siblings. So... watch out. :smalltongue:

Remember, this is a pure vanilla game, so turn off those DLCs before loading up the game. (I also turned off my sprites and music DLC, just in case.)

Caewil

2013-01-20, 09:53 AM

Right, so is it on to Ireland or straight to take on the hated english? (we'd need a lot of mercenaries though)

Avaris

2013-01-20, 10:01 AM

Right, so is it on to Ireland or straight to take on the hated english? (we'd need a lot of mercenaries though)

Depends entirely on which of us takes over the game I guess!

On which note, I won't be in consideration for the first few turns, as I'll be away from my gaming PC :smallmad:

Grif

2013-01-20, 10:53 AM

Reign of Duke Bleddyn I of Gwynedd
The city of Townsville duchy of Gwynedd. Pretty isn't it?

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194696/q5gBc0.jpg

And it's mine. All mine.

First things first. In order to govern this realm properly, I need skills.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194699/EQpAfMYjU.jpg

There we go. On to our next problem. My heir seems to be unmarried. But wait, the daughter of this duke of Poitou is unmarried and comely. I believe I shall arrange for their wedding immediately!

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194700/vTa9Nlj.jpg

Some other boring stuff about my kingdom duchy.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194703/u4JQzFwcGD.jpg
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194704/4qbutYds9.jpg
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194706/utlY2s0oA.jpg

What's this? My councillors are all lounging about in the commons. Shoo! Off to work!

The state of the world in general.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194707/areRYgJUl6.jpg

But first I need allies. So with that, I start pledging my sons and daughters to kings and dukes. My excellent charm has landed me the friendship of the king of Scotland, in addition to Poitou.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194710/BsWPtd5UAqb.jpg

But then... somebody was foolish enough to try to do this:
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194722/Jcq2QGtg.jpg

(Notice the amusing bug that inadvertently revealed the source of the plot to me, even though the text mentioned it was not revealed.)

To my dismay, my spymaster and wife pinpointed the source of this treachery: my newly wed daughter-in-law. Hesitant to clap her in chains and send her off to be beheaded so soon, I confronted her. She threw herself to the ground and quickly confessed to her crimes. The wench pledged everlasting loyalty to me in return for her life. With great deliberation, I decided to spare her. Just as well. I hated playing matchmaker.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194718/PvzXM4gUyO2j.jpg

Silfir

2013-01-20, 11:19 AM

Um, why isn't this in a new thread?

Grif

2013-01-20, 11:25 AM

Um, why isn't this in a new thread?

Are we supposed to make a new thread? :smallconfused:

(I'm more than happy to, but why not just continue this?)

EDIT: On second thought, that might be a good idea, though editing the OP (and title) to have all the information would amount to the same, really.

Flickerdart

2013-01-20, 11:35 AM

Oh dear. You gave the King of Scotland a claim on Wales? We are so doomed.

Grif

2013-01-20, 11:38 AM

Reign of Duke Bleddyn I of Gwynedd
To ease my planned conquest of the world, I decided to get rid of a little pest.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194724/kdlhXD1a.jpg
(Hilarious, because at this point, I had 0 intrigue and only 15 state intrigue overall.)

I also ordered the men to start putting up some bloody walls of this castle. We don't even have proper wooden palisades for God's sake.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194725/XIC70U.jpg

Oh... oh dear. Norway has conquered England and put that old fart Godwinson beneath their iron boot. I will need to tread carefully around them.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194726/UwXQl0VPuj7.jpg

Tired of waiting around for my chancellor to produce something, I decided to press my nephew's claim on Deheubarth instead.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194727/hktwEDLnHMU.jpg
Things went well... a little too well.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194728/a3WFyMgJuU.jpg
That little bastard refused to swear fealthy to me after I helped him to the throne. He'll pay for this. (I forgot to check if he was part of my dynasty. Heh. At least this little blurb didn't quite matter in the long run.)

As an aside, Scotland now looks like pretty jigsaw puzzles. :smalltongue:
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194760/NGiKu3.jpg

After a few years of moldering in my castle, we finally managed to fabricate an entirely legitimate claim on Glamorgan.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194729/JURc4mn.jpg
The war went about as expected. Our banners flew from Glamorgan by the end of the year.

Meanwhile...
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194730/X2GF74LjI.jpg

Navarra decided to start a holy war. I sent their messengers off with empty promises. I'm not about to die in Spain for him.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194736/oDr4nR.jpg

Besides, they can handle one small Moor country, right?
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194737/EjqvYXhtwJs7.jpg
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194737/EjqvYXhtwJs7.jpg

Quite. Anyway, I have more important business to attend to. Another vassal who doesn't know I am his king liege.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194739/aMnSf8lNoT.jpg

... Whoops. Maybe I should have gone to help him after all.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194741/1WmJ9j63z8.jpg

Or not. The French decided that that land is theirs now.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194743/ascv45LikTP.jpg
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194744/GCrAztvIW0o.jpg

But! With the end of the war, I'm finally free to promulgate my own rules.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194745/rYH6zxBkEcm.jpg

That said, my vassals wasn't too happy my heir is going to inherit all my titles now. Nor are my numerous other sons and daughters. Oh well.

And finally, my chancellor managed to seal my claim on the last piece of Wales that still defies my rule:
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194751/FwRVgUz.jpg
The war was over quickly.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194752/0IU9AW5HLC.jpg
And now I rule Wales!
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194754/ODx0rMy.jpg

Alas, my body fail me.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194756/oSlGrq.jpg
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194757/6utlrJiImH.jpg
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/194758/IebUv3jt.jpg

Save (http://wikisend.com/download/556902/Gwynedd1085_12_04.ck2).

Silfir

2013-01-20, 11:47 AM

Are we supposed to make a new thread? :smallconfused:

(I'm more than happy to, but why not just continue this?)

EDIT: On second thought, that might be a good idea, though editing the OP (and title) to have all the information would amount to the same, really.

Well, there is the matter of the title being about fishing for interest for the succession game, rather than the actual succession game. People who see the thread might not realize it's started.

It's less work, too, because you don't have to add a link to where the games begin.

Murmaider

2013-01-20, 11:48 AM

And Norway conquered England once more. I think I haven't seen a de Normandie on the english throne once since 1.09 came out:smallmad:

Grif

2013-01-20, 11:51 AM

Well, there is the matter of the title being about fishing for interest for the succession game, rather than the actual succession game. People who see the thread might not realize it's started.

It's less work, too, because you don't have to add a link to where the games begin.

Thread titles are editable. :smallwink:

And besides, I do plan to link all your AAR post when you guys get your turn. (Upload still pending, will link my post later. For now, OP update time.)

EDIT: Save is up, and um, yeah, start volunteering. :smalltongue:

Flickerdart

2013-01-20, 12:05 PM

Yeah, sure, I'll volunteer.

Gamerlord

2013-01-20, 12:06 PM

I'll throw my hat in the ring. Hopefully I won't mess things up too badly if I end up being the one who gets to play. :smalltongue:

Weezer

2013-01-20, 12:18 PM

I'm up for giving it a whirl.

Zar Peter

2013-01-20, 12:42 PM

I volunteer!

My tryout with Navarra just ended in the year 1300. And before you ask, I managed to create another mercenary state :smallbiggrin:

Silfir

2013-01-20, 01:18 PM

ME! ME! ME! MEEEE!

If that's ok with you, that is.

Trixie

2013-01-20, 01:44 PM

My tryout with Navarra just ended in the year 1300. And before you ask, I managed to create another mercenary state :smallbiggrin:

Eh, this sounds fun, must try it someday -.-

Anyway, I kinda hoped second round will be this weekend, since I don't have time till Wednesday I might as well volunteer into one after this one...

What is policy on naming children anyway?

Silfir

2013-01-20, 02:25 PM

I'd say we simply confirm the default name, so we can be sure it's fitting, but that might be too boring for some.

I think rulers should not be restricted by any general policies, but the magic exploration of Medieval history through roleplayed Crusader Kings II AARs might turn out a bit underwhelming to readers if the player ends up having to explain the historical background of the name "Guybrush de Gwynedd".

Flickerdart

2013-01-20, 03:03 PM

What about naming the non-successor children silly things? I mean, the fifth son is probably not ever going to inherit under Primogeniture.

Kurgan

2013-01-20, 03:55 PM

*Raises Hand* I volunteer to get put in the drawing for next go!

On a sidenote, how old is the new Duke?

And I say we get to make the names ourselves, with the ruling of "nothing stupid", as lets face it, nobody wants to play L337Haxxorz the 7th. This in no way is because I want to force whoever goes after me to play Count/Duke/King/Emperor Kurgan the Great. :smallbiggrin:

EDIT:

What about naming the non-successor children silly things? I mean, the fifth son is probably not ever going to inherit under Primogeniture.

You would be surprised. I have had rulers sit on the throne from the age of 10 to the age of 90. When that happens, you are looking at either grandchildren or sons you sired at the age of 70 inheriting.

Avaris

2013-01-20, 04:03 PM

Kurgan

2013-01-20, 04:09 PM

I'm against silly names, or indeed any names beyond the default, as ultimately the person doing the naming won't be playing the character, but someone else might. Even younger children with silly names is a bad thing, as they will inevitably jostle for power and cause all sorts of mischief... I don't want to be writing about my long and bitter wars with my brother Bob.

See, I am a fan of making the names myself sometimes and letting the game name the child. Sometimes I just hate the random name the game wants to give me, or in the case of my most recent game, the name generator wanted to give me the exact same name for all four of my daughters. Though I do agree, the names would have to be decent.

Flickerdart

2013-01-20, 04:20 PM

Well, that was odd.

I started a game as the Hammadid Emirate, to polish up my skills a bit. Prompt comes up - ruler unmarried. I click it, so it goes to his profile...and that's when I notice he has a son, but no former wives, and the son only has one listed parent and one listed grandparent. The same is true for the Emir himself, and his father, and his grandfather...

I guess North African nobility reproduces by budding.

Trixie

2013-01-20, 05:49 PM

Or maybe, you know, some cultures considered wives unimportant ^^"

Although I saw in latest patch notes a lot of that was supposed to be fixed...

Aragehaor

2013-01-20, 08:40 PM

I volunteer as well.

On the topic of naming, I'd be down with either the default names or naming our children to a silly theme and then being incredibly embarrassed about it when someone points out that its stupid. :smalltongue:

Grif

2013-01-20, 09:41 PM

On a sidenote, how old is the new Duke?

40-ish. :smallwink:

Plenty of time for mischief.

Grif

2013-01-21, 10:44 AM

Time's up. (More or less. :smalltongue:)

Gamerlord, lead Wales to glory! :smallbiggrin:

Gamerlord

2013-01-21, 11:22 AM

Oh joy, thirty minutes into my turn and I've already managed to start a civil war. :smallsigh: :smalltongue:

Grif

2013-01-21, 01:04 PM

Oh joy, thirty minutes into my turn and I've already managed to start a civil war. :smallsigh: :smalltongue:

Sounds about par for the course...

You started a civil war with that ambitious son of mine, didn't you? :smalltongue:

Gamerlord

2013-01-21, 01:12 PM

Sounds about par for the course...

You started a civil war with that ambitious son of mine, didn't you? :smalltongue:
Yeah, and then I got in another war with his brother, and then I got in a war with the mercenaries that I hired to win those wars...oh, did I mention we are now the Vassals of the aforementioned soldiers of fortune?
EDIT: Oops, it wasn't them, it was the sons of the current ruler.

Grif

2013-01-21, 01:18 PM

Yeah, and then I got in another war with his brother, and then I got in a war with the mercenaries that I hired to win those wars...oh, did I mention we are now the Vassals of the aforementioned soldiers of fortune?
EDIT: Oops, it wasn't them, it was the sons of the current ruler.

Vassals. Ouch. :smalleek:

How did our proud duchy fall so low?

Gamerlord

2013-01-21, 02:17 PM

Vassals. Ouch. :smalleek:

How did our proud duchy fall so low?
It all started when Scotland decided to declare war on us when our troops were trapped in Ireland and went downhill from there.
Anyway, finished my turn, will post AAR and save after I sort through all the screenshots I took and decide which ones are actually needed.

Gwyn chan 'r Gwyll

2013-01-21, 05:01 PM

Ah good, I was worried that we were rising too fast. This is much more interesting!

Aragehaor

2013-01-21, 05:12 PM

Ah good, I was worried that we were rising too fast. This is much more interesting!

If i was watching this succession game that's really what i would look forward to, the constant rise and fall of the welsh empire. :smalltongue:

Also, we should probably put all developments relating to the new turn (and the next part of the AAR bit) in spoilers.

Zar Peter

2013-01-21, 06:09 PM

Well, just in case I don't get to the PC in the next 12 hours... I'm still ready to take one of the next turns :smallcool:

Gamerlord

2013-01-21, 06:17 PM

December 4th, 1085,
Well, the old man finally went and kicked the bucket, so I'm in charge now! Let's take a look at the kingdom, shall we.
http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/6418/2013012100001w.jpg
Okay, technically it isn't a kingdom quite yet, but I'm working on that problem!
http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/8921/2013012100003.jpg
Anyway, this is me! Not exactly the brightest guy in the kingdom duchy, but hopefully we can fix that!
http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/2535/2013012100022.jpg

December 24th, 1085
Navarra's ruler came and asked us for help, apparently some countess was starting a fight for the realm. Of course I accepted his call to arms. Sadly however, all my boats were suddenly and mysteriously sabotaged in such a manner that while they may look perfectly seaworthy, they simply could not be sent off to Spain.
http://imageshack.us/a/img526/9418/2013012100008.jpg

June 2nd,1086
I was plotting on how to make my move into Ireland, when I noticed one of the rulers was excommunicated. Needless to say, I took full advantage of this opportunity.
http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/195104/medium/pJPnVc.jpg
....Or at least I would have, it weren't for that fact that a couple of days later the excommunication was lifted, cancelling the war just as my troops were about to get over to that county and crush anything that so much as looked at them funny.

October 4th, 1087
One of those brats came of age.
http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/2535/2013012100022.jpg
December 22nd, 1087
You know that County I almost managed to invade, but failed because the Pope is a huge flip-flop? Yeah, I came up with a Plan B.
http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/1954/2013012100027.jpg

March 17th, 1088,
In hindsight, maybe giving Scotland a claim on one of our counties was not such a good idea.
http://img853.imageshack.us/img853/8184/2013012100030.jpg

March 26th, 1088
Scotland hasn't marched over here yet, so maybe we can quickly seize one of the ports over in Ireland, then send our soldiers back home to aid in the defense.
http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/5333/2013012100033.jpg

June 20th, 1088
SEND FOR REINFORCEMENTS!
http://img803.imageshack.us/img803/2701/2013012100038.jpg

July 4th, 1088
Despite ordering an assault on the walls our forces still haven't captured anything yet. Combine that with the fact that the Scottish easily outnumber us even if I managed to call the forces back quickly, and I decided to just give up and give them their precious county. Curiously, they decided to give the county to someone who doesn't serve them. This will hopefully make reconquering it much easier.
http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/4459/2013012100040.jpg

September 6th, 1088
I decided to try to make up for the loss of that county by sticking with the Irish Invasion. However, one of the other rulers of Ireland teamed up with my opponent to kick our battered forces out, with no hope of repairing my armies anytime soon, I decided to go with a White Peace and avoid the risk of a counterattack.
http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/843/2013012100046.jpg

December 5th, 1088
To add insult to injury, I got mugged today. Also, recent events have not done wonders for my prestige.
http://img547.imageshack.us/img547/4745/2013012100049.jpg

December 17th, 1088
Received a report that some nobles were up to no good.
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/6766/2013012100050.jpg

January 13th, 1089
Tried to stop the conspiracy before it could reach a climax, but it appears I failed.
http://imageshack.us/f/267/2013012100051.jpg/

September 15th, 1089
The nobles did not enjoy my reply, but I think I have managed to "persuade" them to obey.
http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/3764/2013012100056.jpg

June 22nd, 1090
I decided the time was ripe to take back that county. I sent my combined forces to crush their measly defenses and- CALL FOR REINFORCEMENTS!
http://img818.imageshack.us/img818/6334/2013012100062.jpg
20th July, 1090
Turns out those new guys were an invasion force sent by some Duchy to the south.
http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/9459/2013012100063.jpg

November 11th, 1093,
The past few years managed to be fairly uneventful, and then one of my sons decided to declare independence. And crushed the forces I sent to "negotiate" with him.
http://img853.imageshack.us/img853/2320/2013012100079.jpg

March 16th, 1094
My new wife and I have a daughter.
http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/5961/2013012100082.jpg
(OOC: Thought I took a pic, but apparently I didn't. Old wife croaked, so I married a Byzantine princess.)

April 3rd, 1094
Out of desperation for some way to win the civil war, I had turned to mercenaries to fight for me. When their leader walked into the court today and asked for his pay, he was somewhat displeased to hear my reply.
http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/5608/2013012100083.jpg
April 27th, 1094
This war could be going better.
http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/4615/2013012100086.jpg

September 6th, 1094
Hoping I can focus my efforts on the Bretons with him out of the way, I offer my rebellious son independence.
http://img825.imageshack.us/img825/1241/2013012100089.jpg
May 25th, 1095
Despite that however, I still fail. Ultimately, I have no choice but to surrender.
http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/3567/2013012100091.jpg
August 12th, 1095
Today I received the position of Marshal, apparently my new overlord decided it would be a great idea to give the man he deposed more power.
(OOC: I could almost swear I took a screencap of that, but it seems to have vanished)
February 12th, 1098
Wife is pregnant again.
http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/6216/2013012100102.jpg
March 26th, 1098
The next stage of my revolution is complete, I have managed to convince the Pope to excommunicate my liege. Now to wait for a war to break out that will exhaust his forces...
http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/7802/2013012100103.jpg
(OOC: I also plotted to kill him twice, but he found out about both of those and made me stop.)
June 30th, 1098
While all this has been going on, England has been starting to look rather messy.
http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/808/2013012100105.jpg
August 12th, 1098
The war I have been waiting for has begun!
http://img809.imageshack.us/img809/5299/2013012100106.jpg
September 14th, 1098
I now have a new daughter!
http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/6103/2013012100107.jpg
November 7th, 1098
The revolution has begun! Also, you know that son of mine that rebelled? Well apparently he remained my ally. Also, some English guy heeded my call as well, but given the state of affairs over there I doubt he will be much help. The Byzantines reject our plea for aid.
http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/1833/2013012100108.jpg
http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/1966/2013012100109.jpg
June 19th, 1099
Well, I'm dead!
http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/5039/2013012100110.jpg

Apparently the guy who inherited the dynasty is still a loyal subject of the Bretons, although his brother appears to have decided to continue the war in his father's name.

Save (http://wikisend.com/download/359834/Gwynedd1099_06_19.ck2)

Well, I guess that could have gone worse! It'll be up to the next guy to decide what to do about our glorious Breton overlords. :smalltongue:

Aragehaor

2013-01-21, 06:42 PM

I volunteer to lead our good name facefirst into the mud.

Silfir

2013-01-21, 06:51 PM

Still Me! Still Me! Still Me!

Narkis

2013-01-21, 07:03 PM

Pick me! I shall restore our family to greatness. Maybe.

Kurgan

2013-01-21, 07:31 PM

I believe I can lead us to glory or death, pick me random number generator!

Weezer

2013-01-21, 07:49 PM

I'm still up for it. And unlike Aragehaor I move foreward with confidence. Within one lifetime I will lead our dynasty to its rightful place at the head of all Christendom.

(yes, my character has/will have a bit of megalomania, unless his traits are totally opposite of that)

Grif

2013-01-21, 09:04 PM

Well, that was interesting. :smalltongue:

24 hours to get your name in, people.

EDIT: England looks so pretty now. :smallbiggrin:

Grif

2013-01-22, 08:42 PM

Random.org has spoken.

Weezer, viva la revolucion!

Weezer

2013-01-22, 08:48 PM

Cool. Cool, cool, cool. I'll download the save when I get home.

Weezer

2013-01-22, 11:15 PM

The situation of the Duchy seems grim. The upstart mercenaries seem to have gotten themselves excommunicated and thus have drawn the wrath of all Christendom. An army from Britanny is occupying our lands, besieging our towns and castles. For now, we wait, and perhaps seize an opportunity to remove the Bretons from power.

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676160435/870FD2C983D640FE42FB9F2AB2C6053F6425935F/

Some minor reshuffling of advisors results in a much more effective council.

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676160987/CAFF43945A7DBBFF73640F4AAFCE67D770AAB69F/

Our lands have been occupied!

http://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=122263382

The Breton Band has lost the war, and Captain Judikael has taken power after his predecessor is forced to abdicate. This is the time to strike! Our oppressors are weak, and their armies depleted. We must rise up!

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676162392/B6B4955295BC97806C4F92F0A71C5D60DC8C8D94/

As we besiege the Captain’s estate, we discover that the Breton army numbers only 9 men. How the mighty have fallen.

http://cloud.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676162944/FD9967D822DDCBA65DCA1DD8D7CF8DB3E0DE4F2D/

Victory! Out from the heels of our erstwhile hirelings we march.

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676163709/7F4366B3C9293399FC56DE587AD52B58E4DE4F69/

I send my Chancellor to ‘discover’ our claim to the county of Gwent, a part of our families rightful heritage. Before the documents to support the claim are discovered, my young nephew takes the seat. It is my familial duty to take the reins from his young, incompetent hands.

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676164804/1786311804174CA0D4259F632BB88DAD1CE5B530/

His armies have fallen, all that remains is to settle into a siege.

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676165188/A93731972725265B33F3A1A6AFA153E2B75D72F7/

My nephew surrenders. Our familial holdings are once again united under the rule of one member. I am now the Duke of Deheubarth!

http://cloud.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676166025/4ECDFEA7838CD0D300F6D16977FBD528C48B5167/

I declare war on the Bretons, to reclaim the county of Powys. Quickly their army routs before our righteous might and they surrender the county in question. Our second Duchy title is acquired. Now we must simply wait for funds to accumulate for our coronation.

http://cloud.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676166556/99244810F53DC4348D08CB9B5FF6E9ABD890B934/

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676167872/007A9C878A1189EC540284FB66F2D8E1E4AA00F2/

Opportunistically I declare war on the revolting country of Perfeddwlad. Eventual victory is achieved.

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676168355/6C6558978F1E652A73B126A146A939DF7A73AA4A/

I betrothe my grandson and heir to the Duchess of Dauphine.

http://cloud.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676169037/852870FF02665A9701A1A98C6B82A450708A77C4/

Soon afterwards I begin my final war to reunify Wales under the banner of one family and to drive the Breton Band from our shores forever.

http://cloud.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676169571/D4D476EEB4B57E401052ADC4164AE7318B66EDA2/

Kings at last. From gutter (so to speak) to royalty in just 18 short years. Next, Europe!

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676170796/760F6A315BF1FC2F8818F6CB1A3CBF51E246E8B2/

The prince and Heir apparent to Aragon marries my half-sister matrilineally. With that lack of political acumen, no wonder Hispania is crushed under the Muslim yoke.

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676171296/D2D6D89B5C54C8EE0FA841DA18389B421D27CBDF/

At 67, and after an uneventful twilight of his life, King Llywelyn I passes away peacefully. The King is dead, long live the King!

http://cloud-2.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676172022/76A4FA321332BF01DD30F0D5FCADF0C18A68CEDD/

Save (https://www.dropbox.com/s/c0cqlk2i8jl5sjk/Wales1124_02_19.ck2)

P.S. Why did we have to choose the culture with the hardest to spell names? Grumble.

Grif

2013-01-23, 12:43 AM

Well, that was a quick rise in fortune again. :smallwink:

As usual guys, 24 hours to get your names in.

Weezer, you might want to fix some of the image links. They lead to the steam community page instead.

Zar Peter

2013-01-23, 01:36 AM

Still here to crush the neighbours!

Morrolan

2013-01-23, 04:46 AM

I've been following this thread with interest. I love CK2.

I do have a quick question:When does a turn end?

Also: Generated welch names are horrible. My daughter was once called Prfwgwd.

Grif

2013-01-23, 05:02 AM

I've been following this thread with interest. I love CK2.

I do have a quick question:When does a turn end?

Also: Generated welch names are horrible. My daughter was once called Prfwgwd.

When your ruler dies, naturally. :smallwink:

I'm waiting for the inevitable drunkard, kinslayer king. :smallbiggrin:

Morrolan

2013-01-23, 05:28 AM

Well then, if I am not too late, I would like to do a turn as well.

No DLC right?

Grif

2013-01-23, 05:37 AM

Well then, if I am not too late, I would like to do a turn as well.

No DLC right?

You're not too late. We'll be doing this every time after a player finishes his turn. :smallwink: 24 hours to drop your name in, random.org to select the (un)lucky guy to continue. Priority given to new players.

And yes, no DLC enabled.

In other news, I'm still quite surprised Ireland remained divided like that. One would think Scotland would have gone over to assert their control by now. :smallbiggrin:

Also, it looks like England is free from Norway's grasp again.

Silfir

2013-01-23, 05:48 AM

Kurgan

2013-01-23, 06:29 AM

I'll take a stab at ruling. Here's hoping we didn't end up with a 50+ year old drunkard.

Grif

2013-01-23, 08:30 AM

ME! ME! ME!

Grif, you have a talent for understatement or my PC is crap. I count two working images in total. Which is a shame considering it means Weezer's tremendous success went almost entirely unheralded in pictures.
I do aim to please.

It's still technically viewable if you right-click and "View image in a new tab". :smallwink:

Silfir

2013-01-23, 09:24 AM

This is related to browser settings, then: There is nothing there for me to right click. The spoiler boxes just end immediately. I could of course view the page source and follow the links from there... But I'm terminally lazy I'd like to subtly encourage Weezer to fix this issue for the good of all hopeful readers!

Weezer

2013-01-23, 09:32 AM

Sorry about the link problems, they should be fixed now.

Also, it looks like England is free from Norway's grasp again.

Probably not for long, they're currently at war with each other, though I'm not sure what over, and Norway is winning by a long shot. In the last screenshot all those occupied countries are occupied by Norway, and a few counties are in revolt I think. England doesn't seem as if it's going to be strong for a while. Perhaps the next person will be able to grab a couple counties if some adjacent ones revolt, I tried to do that with Shrewsbury but I died before the claim was fabricated.

snoopy13a

2013-01-23, 10:21 AM

I betrothe my grandson and heir to the Duchess of Dauphine.

http://cloud.steampowered.com/ugc/882972216676169037/852870FF02665A9701A1A98C6B82A450708A77C4/

She appears to be a dwarf. This means that we can name her sons Thorin, Grumpy, or Tyrion. It also means we can have a Court Dwarf.

Weezer

2013-01-23, 10:50 AM

She appears to be a dwarf. This means that we can name her sons Thorin, Grumpy, or Tyrion. It also means we can have a Court Dwarf.

Not enough 'wy's and 'l's in those names. It'll have to be Twyrliwyon.

Hmm, I haven't checked to see if he has had any kids...

Morrolan

2013-01-23, 11:09 AM

Are we allowed to load up the save to take a peek?

Flickerdart

2013-01-23, 12:27 PM

Throwing my crown back into the ring. Time to burninate some peasants.

Zar Peter

2013-01-23, 12:38 PM

Are we allowed to load up the save to take a peek?

I'm not sure if there's anything against it.

I thought about a tryout, too.

Grif

2013-01-23, 01:45 PM

I'm not sure if there's anything against it.

I thought about a tryout, too.

Nothing against it. You can even post about your !!Fun!! you had with it as an alternate history sort of thing. :smalltongue:

Morrolan

2013-01-23, 01:47 PM

Ah, good. Because I sort of already had loaded it up.

Guess what, the next king is married matrilineally.

Narkis

2013-01-23, 04:31 PM

Posting interest for this ruler too. And the third image still doesn't work for me.

edit:

The prince and Heir apparent to Aragon marries my half-sister matrilineally. With that lack of political acumen, no wonder Hispania is crushed under the Muslim yoke.
*cough*

I betrothe my grandson and heir to the Duchess of Dauphine.
*cough*

Guess what, the next king is married matrilineally.

*COUGH*

Weezer

2013-01-23, 04:42 PM

Posting interest for this ruler too. And the third image still doesn't work for me.

edit:

*cough*

*cough*

*COUGH*

Wait, what? Bugger. How did I screw that up? ****, I know what happened, he AI always tries to get matralinial marriages when you get betrothed to a girl, but will accept a regular marriage of you propose it. I must've not paid attention when the notification popped up. Guess you just need to assassinate her and remarry, hoping you have a kid soon.

Aragehaor

2013-01-23, 04:56 PM

For some reason i suddenly have become interested in playing this turn. I volunteer to lead us into a kind of glory.

Grif

2013-01-23, 09:58 PM

Time's up. (More or less.)

Narkis, lead us to London!

Flickerdart

2013-01-24, 01:23 AM

I guess we could make this a tradition - each player has a horrible lapse in judgment (hiring mercs you can't afford, ruining the dynasty) for the next one to untangle.

Morrolan

2013-01-24, 04:36 AM

The game is random enough to provide us with difficult situations.
I don't think making mistakes on purpose is very fun, but taking bigger risks makes things interesting :smallwink:

Narkis

2013-01-24, 06:08 AM

All done. Just need to short out the screenshots and write up the AAR.

And I'm sorry Grif, I didn't lead us to London.

Morrolan

2013-01-24, 06:21 AM

Can't wait to see how you managed, Narkis. I've played a bit from last save as well, for fun.

Is our dynasty still in existence? :smallbiggrin:

Narkis

2013-01-24, 06:43 AM

Yes, quite. :D

Grif

2013-01-24, 06:44 AM

All done. Just need to short out the screenshots and write up the AAR.

And I'm sorry Grif, I didn't lead us to London.

Oh wow. That was quick.

I think we can put up the turn hat in advance. 24 hours to get your names in, people.

I propose we give a nickname to each ruler based on their performance. :smallwink: (Humourous nicknames get extra cookies.)

Morrolan

2013-01-24, 06:52 AM

I hereby apply for next turn.

Names like: King Llywelyn I of matrilineal marriages? :smalltongue:
Or should Narkis' king be called that, because he was the one married matrilineally. Oh well.

Silfir

2013-01-24, 07:07 AM

Me! Me! Me!

One of these guys failed at accounting and the other just couldn't read. How do you extract a humorous nickname from that kind of thing?

Morrolan

2013-01-24, 07:10 AM

Duke Cadwgan I the literally challenged?

Duke "Where did that 0 come from" Bleddyn I?

Silfir

2013-01-24, 07:15 AM

The Duke who couldn't count, so he became a Count?

Narkis

2013-01-24, 07:25 AM

Oh wow. That was quick.

Yeah, I, umm, started playing before getting confirmation.:smallcool:

As for nicks, how 'bout "Count Cadwgan I the Spendthrift" and "King Llyewyn I the Inattentive"? My king already got a nickname in the game, so I'll vote for that one. :smallwink:

Steam's also refusing to upload my screens, so there'll be a delay while i try to put them somewhere else.

Grif

2013-01-24, 07:32 AM

My duke is the only one without major gaffes so far.

Duke Bleddyn I "the Boring". :smallbiggrin:

Zar Peter

2013-01-24, 08:42 AM

I'll put my name in!

Tried to play Llewellin the second, too. Wanted to poison my wife but she cought me, then she tried to poison me but got cought so my Spymaster poisoned her for free and succeeded. Neverteless the Scots invaded on behalf of my evil uncle in Powys I think. Then I ended the turn.

I'm really curious how Narkis managed that.

Morrolan

2013-01-24, 09:08 AM

Weezer

2013-01-24, 09:12 AM

I vote my ruler be forever known as King "Fine print? What fine print?" Llywelyn I.

Trixie

2013-01-24, 09:40 AM

It also means we can have a Court Dwarf.

Speaking of which, I never understood why Court Jester is bad title, while Court Dwarf is as good as being some big fish :smallconfused:

Grif

2013-01-24, 10:35 AM

In my play of Llywelyn the 2nd the plot to kill the wife succeeded within the first month. That evil uncle revolted against me, and the other county not under our direct control joined him. After that I imprisoned both of them and revoked their titles. Our demesne is only 5 so I gave a county to a content courtier. A decade later I had also conquered the three-county duchy in the south of Ireland, and I had produced several sons in a non-matrilineal marriage.

Stopped playing there, seemed like a nice enough alternative history.
Now if we would only know what really happened...
How are the screenshots coming along, Narkis? :smallwink:

Evil uncle... man, we're definitely hitting every trope there is to hit about bad medieval soap opera. :smallbiggrin:

The Duke who couldn't count, so he became a Count?

Not quite a nickname, but definitely one for his epitaph. :smalltongue:

I vote my ruler be forever known as King "Fine print? What fine print?" Llywelyn I.

I second this ridiculously unwieldy nickname.

Narkis

2013-01-24, 10:45 AM

WARNING: Long post. Lots o' screenshots. Almost 50 years of rule. /WARNING

The Almighty Lord, in his infinite wisdom, has called father to his side. And may He forgive me for my blasphemy, but it took him long enough. A matrilineal marriage. With a gluttonous dwarf. Only the devil could have inspired him to find such a match.http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00001_zpse556ef94.jpg

My uncle the viper, no doubt influenced by the prince of darkness himself, seeks to test my mettle. But with the Lord's help, I shall not falter.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00002_zps1de76b3f.jpg

As this civil war rages, the Pope refuses my request for a divorce. May the Lord forgive me for the foul deed I have ordered.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00003_zps8c3a4710.jpg

Alas, my kingdom is more important than even my immortal soul. The deed is done, and I am betrothed to the Countess of Tyrconnell, 13 years my junior.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00004_zps7cb44652.jpg

Scant months later, my faithful chancellor "discovers" documents proving beyond doubt my family's claim on the county of Leinster. The Lord's will is clear. If I am to atone for my sins, I must unify the lands of Ireland.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00007_zpsbb6beb00.jpg

The Lord moves in mysterious ways. My eldest daughter dies, and I inherit the lands of her mother. Yet more evidence that my first union was cursed, and invalid in the eyes of the Lord.http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00008_zps7350dabf.jpg

But where is this Duchy of Dauphinee? I order my seneschal to bring me a map. The results are not encouraging.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00009_zps7ff0b5a9.jpg

The locals are not very welcoming.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00010_zps3f113e45.jpg

Not at all.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00011_zps2771c8e6.jpg

And the neighbours' friendliness leaves much to be desired.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00012_zps38035c06.jpg

And what is this? A plot to kill me? Who seeks to end this servant of God? My aunt-in-law. I should have expected it. The devil rules in the County of Dyfed. But surely no son of Wales shares her madness.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00013_zpse86fe4ae.jpg

My faithfull spymaster shatters my illusions, and shows me the true extent of the corruption. Jackals and vipers, all of them! Is there no other true Christian in this kingdom? Must I carry out the will of the Lord myself?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00014_zps9b9b6ce9.jpg

With their plans uncovered, the conspirators end their scheme, and beg me for mercy. They forget that only the Lord has the power to forgive their sins.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00015_zps41b3f731.jpg

After a siege that lasted almost two years, the war is over. The county of Dyfed has been cleansed. And my treacherous uncle is imprisoned, never to see the light of day again.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00017_zps954cf5f3.jpg

The Counts who supported him refuse to repent and submit to the mercy of God. They raise their banners in rebellion, while I grant the last of my erstwhile wife's lands to the Countess of Vienne.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00020_zps9d387962.jpg

She is not happy for long. The German Emperor's hordes smash the duchy in the blink of an eye, and I wash my hands off that den of vipers.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00021_zps99b12ce7.jpg

The Holy Church urges me to practice celibacy, but God has a different plan for me. I must sire an heir for the good of the kingdom.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00024_zpsc7b9c5f1.jpg

My faithful chancellor discovers another familial claim in Ireland, while the last of the traitorous Counts is imprisoned next to my uncle. Now I alone rule in the kingdom of Wales. And alone I shall remain, for there is no one I can trust here.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00025_zpsef1695dc.jpg

My course is set. In the name of God, I must liberate Ireland.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00032_zps2a5a92f9.jpg

My young wife shows wisdom beyond her age, and joins my righteous struggle. In the wars that come, her aid will be instrumental.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00033_zps1c1417bb.jpg

And soon after my brave warriors set foot on Ireland, my lovely wife bears a son. God has given me a sign. I am following His will. My sins may yet be forgiven.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00034_zpsc5bca19c.jpg

The Irish tremble before the army of Heaven.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00037_zpscb3bd721.jpg

And before long, Leinster belongs to Wales.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00044_zpsc34e3c8d.jpg

My loyal Chancellor is rewarded with the title of Count for his faithful service, and immediately acquires the title of Duke. As always, no mortal can match the generosity of the Lord.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00050_zpsce6edad4.jpg

But there is no time to lose. The Lord's plan must be carried out. I immediately attack the County of Dublin.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00051_zpsae619d26.jpg

While a third claim is discovered.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00060_zps17e2bd91.jpg

Dublin falls before the might of Christ.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00061_zpsadc8b5f0.jpg

As does Connacht soon after.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00064_zpsa3a45723.jpg

My son is growing to be quite the good Christian.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00067_zpsdcf1bb53.jpg

And the Lord provides for our crusade, by plunging the dastardly English into civil war after civil war.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00068_zpsaac4c9be.jpg

Our soldiers march on.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00073_zps766cf159.jpg

While my new Chancellor discovers the last claim that God requires.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00075_zps305356a6.jpg

Nothing...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00077_zps7f27983d.jpg

...can...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00079_zps8ea32c0b.jpg

...stop...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00082_zps3c5e6bd0.jpg

...us...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00085_zps4feeb9ed.jpg

And by the grace of God, I am crowned King of Ireland.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00086_zpsc0f2ddf3.jpg

The northern Counts, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, accept my sovereignty.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00087_zps9d9f700e.jpg

And throught the realms of Christendom, I become known as King Llywelyn the Great.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00088_zpse25d07ef.jpg

Alas, the last Duke of Ireland is clouded by his pride, and refuses to aknowledge me as his liege. I am left...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00092_zps20f3bc77.jpg

...with no choice....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00094_zps082efd02.jpg

...but to seize his lands by force. Ireland is finally united under God's rule. If only my beloved Maire could have seen it...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00095_zps199f1b11.jpg

But I still cannot rest. The Lord has given me my next mission. The godless merchants of Genoa sully our shores with their presence.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00096_zpscf8a1bc1.jpg

In the name of the Lord, I will smite them.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00097_zpse393e7c4.jpg

And just as my redemption is within my grasp, the devil tempts me, and I fall.
O, Lord, forgive thy servant for his weakness. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00099_zpsa930157e.jpg

Suspecting nothing of their liege's duplicity, my brave troops besiege Genoa herself.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00100_zpsbd42d522.jpg

And my misdeed comes to light when my mistress bears a child.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00101_zps6fd7da10.jpg

But the merciful Lord does not abandon His children so easily. The mercenary forces of Genoa switch sides, proving once again that earthly riches cannot compare to the goods of Heaven.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00102_zps5924a764.jpg

With their forces fighting amongst themselves, another enemy of God surrenders. Our own republic of Leinster is free to dominate the waves of Britannia.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00105_zps916eb15b.jpg

Victorious once again. But this victory tastes like ashes. God has punished me for my sins, calling my beloved son at his side.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00106_zpsce5dc574.jpg

And as my time draws near, I think more and more about my succession. All my sons should benefit from Gods generosity towards me, not only my eldest.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00108_zps3616d272.jpg

And my youngest, Cynyr, should not be excluded. The circumstances of his birth are no fault of his own, and he is still my blood. I cannot allow him to pay for my sins.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00109_zpsfc6a5dc9.jpg

But I still won't rest easy. Not even the finest wine can help.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00111_zps3cffaba2.jpg

Perhaps the Lord wishes one more service of me. The people of England, tired from decades of strife, clamour for my rule. And with my trusted Chancellor's help, I oblige.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00113_zpsaf91d1cc.jpg

In their weakened state, the English lords offer practically no resistance.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00115_zps0583746f.jpg

But in my weakened state, demons get a hold on my body, and I am bedridden.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00116_zpsd6b0a551.jpg

I try to fight them, but my flesh is weak. As my light grows dim, I call my sons at my side, but it is too late. Too soon, much too soon, I submit myself to the Lord's judgement. So much left to do. So much left to say. But I am out of time. May the Lord have mercy on my soul.http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v329/Nikitis/CK2/2013-01-24_00117_zps4ef18bca.jpg

Save (https://www.dropbox.com/s/pgv3y38ub6p3t9r/Wales1171_04_17.ck2)

Grif

2013-01-24, 10:49 AM

My god. Gavelkind.

I'm going to so uh... wish good luck on the next player.

EDIT: Still, impressive feat conquering Ireland in one ruler's lifetime. :smallbiggrin:

Weezer

2013-01-24, 10:54 AM

Wait, why did you implement Gavelkind? That ruins all your work in grabbing Ireland...

Grif

2013-01-24, 10:56 AM

Wait, why did you implement Gavelkind? That ruins all your work in grabbing Ireland...

RP purposes, most like. Also, !!Fun!! in the most literal sense.

Narkis

2013-01-24, 12:22 PM

What Grif said, pretty much. It ain't fun if everything goes according to plan.:smallwink:

Avaris

2013-01-24, 01:42 PM

I'll throw my name into the ring for the next round

Flickerdart

2013-01-24, 04:25 PM

I was wondering when you'd start picking up English provinces. Why not snap up Devon and Cornwall? You should have claim on them as king of Wales.

Weezer

2013-01-24, 04:37 PM

I was wondering when you'd start picking up English provinces. Why not snap up Devon and Cornwall? You should have claim on them as king of Wales.

Because Norway has had control of them most of, if not all, the game.

Flickerdart

2013-01-24, 04:42 PM

Weezer

2013-01-24, 04:50 PM

They're rebelling in a couple of those screenshots, though.

Speaking of which, has anyone been improving our buildings? One of my favourite things about my Wales playthrough was that the small land brought in a whole lot of money and I could afford to max out almost all of my buildings (once I usurped the titles of the Counts ruling there).

Hmm, in that case I dunno.

I did some, That's what all my guy's money went towards for the last 10-15 years or so of his reign.

Kurgan

2013-01-24, 05:01 PM

I volunteer for next turn. Curious: did we lose any of our king titles? or just piles of duchies/counties?

Grif

2013-01-24, 09:22 PM

I volunteer for next turn. Curious: did we lose any of our king titles? or just piles of duchies/counties?

I believe the primary title as King of Wales should be safely with us.

I do think the King of Ireland title may be lost though. :smalleek:

Silfir

2013-01-24, 09:37 PM

We get a claim on it, though, right? :amused:

Grif

2013-01-24, 09:42 PM

We get a claim on it, though, right? :amused:

Well... yeah. Ireland is very much bigger than Wales though.

Hm... :smalltongue:

(I hope someone kept our Duchy of Gwynedd title. It IS our historical familial title after all.)

Narkis

2013-01-25, 12:16 AM

They're rebelling in a couple of those screenshots, though.

Speaking of which, has anyone been improving our buildings? One of my favourite things about my Wales playthrough was that the small land brought in a whole lot of money and I could afford to max out almost all of my buildings (once I usurped the titles of the Counts ruling there).

I... didn't know they belonged to the kingdom of Wales. :smalleek:

We've kept both king titles and Gwynedd, but not much else. All money that weren't spent getting new titles went to upgrading Wales, but most of those counties now belong to the king's brothers, who... don't like him very much. :smallbiggrin:

Flickerdart

2013-01-25, 01:02 AM

I was playing some more CK2, and got a really neat event for Stewardship - your character is given his own inn to manage, and gets to make a bunch of choices about how to run it. Naturally, I poisoned half the clientele and caused a stampede with the singer I hired. And then a civil war erupted, my king dies, his son was poisoned a few years after, succeeded by his 0 year old daughter. Shortly before her 16th birthday she fell ill, and died almost as soon as she turned 16. The next guy was challenged by a faction trying to put an imprisoned man on the throne, so he executed him and they gave up.

Good times.

Grif

2013-01-25, 04:39 AM

It looks like Zar Peter is the (un)lucky king to rule this time around. :smallbiggrin:

Try not to lose Ireland.

Morrolan

2013-01-25, 04:54 AM

I'm half relieved that I don't have to clean up the gavelkind mess, good luck Zar Peter!

Zar Peter

2013-01-25, 08:33 AM

Great... I'll take it today evening (about 4-6 hours from now) and see what I can do to keep the kingdom.

I have the nagging feeling that my turn won't last almost 50 years...

Grif

2013-01-25, 12:39 PM

Oh dear. Steam updated CK 2 today. I hope it doesn't break save compatibility.

Zar Peter

2013-01-25, 01:54 PM

Well, I'm finished.

King Cadwan I died at the age of 60 after 19 years reign.

I'm writing something up later. Ireland is lost... or not. Llewellyn III, whoever it will be, inherits a war Against his evil AUNT!

Weezer

2013-01-25, 02:00 PM

Zar Peter

2013-01-25, 05:11 PM

In the year of the Lord 1179, on the 17th of April, our beloved King and Father Llewelyn II, the Great died of old age.

Long live his son, Cadwgan the first of his name, King of Wales, King of Ireland, Duke of Gwynedd, Count of Gwynedd, Powys, Tyrconnell and Dyfed.

He's born on 19th August 1130 so he succeeded his father on the throne at the age of 49.

He inherited a war for Northhampton

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00001.jpg

which he soon won:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00002.jpg

On the picture you can also see his beloved wife, Queen Anastazja of Wales, Countess of Kulm and the children, 5 daughters and 3 sons, the eldest, Llewelyn is his heir and the heir of his mothers county Kulm, which is just a bit south of Lituavia.

His Brother Gwerthefyr, the Duke of Debeuhart and Count of Csanad (Hungary) is currently imprisoned in Hungary where he will soon die.

His half brother Cynyr is the Duke of Oxford and Count of Northhampton and will play a big part in the history of Wales soon.

This is the Kingdom of Wales and Ireland in February 1172:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00003.jpg

Cadwgan betrothes his son Llewelyn with the daughter (and only heir) of the Duke of Austria, the betrothal is broken after the fourth attempt of the duke for a matrilinear marriage.

After the death of King Llewelyn the Great Cdwgan declares himself guardian of Cynyr, his half-brother till his mature.

The Duke of Ulster is plotting to install Cadwegns imprisoned brother as King of Ireland but is stopped by the death of said relative in the year 1172.

With my armies at leisure I decide to press one of my courtiers claims on Britanny. It's looking good to gain a fast win:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00006.jpg

And Cadwegn betrothes one of his daughters with the King of France making him a powerful ally.

In May 1173 the King of Castille sets sail to beg for the hand of a sister of Cadwgn, Lleigy. Unfortunatley both allies refuse to help in the battle for Brittany.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00008.jpg

Western Europe 1173:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00009.jpg

In June 1173 the Duke of Ulster, Edgan, revolts against Cadwgan to install his half-brother Cynyr on the throne of Ireland.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00010.jpg

Of course this means war. Since it's now a two front war against Britanny and Ireland, Cadwgan hires mercenaries to fight the Duke of Ulster while the main army stays in Britanny to besiege the Countess.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00012.jpg

On 4th February 1175, after countless attempts from the Babenbergs, Cadwgans son marries Nicor Dominguez from Leon, the daughter of the spanish Duke.

29th April 1176: The spymaster discovered a plot from the kings son to kill him. The king managed to talk Llewelyn out of it.

9th December 1176: Cadwgens son wife Nicor died childless. Llewelyn marries the daughter of the King of Denmark, Jutta Ylving.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00017.jpg

16. May 1177: Finally! Victory against Britanny! Unfortunatley the vassal Cadwgan fought for is now a Scotish!!!!!! vassal? What the? And the Kings armies are heading for Ireland to finally crush the revolution. Brittany seems to have been a completely waste of time.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00019.jpg

11th August 1178: Cadwgan runs from one victory to the other. The Duke of Ulster offers a white peace but the king refuses because he don't want to imprison his half brother. And the war is looking good, anyway.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00020.jpg

This was one of the biggest mistakes Cadwgan made in his whole reign.

because on the 17th November 1179, one year later, Cadwgans army is crushed, he himself imprisoned and there's no other chance than to surrender. Ireland is lost to his half brother Cynyr.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00021.jpg

In 1180 the King hand out Duchies to his sons. He's holding only 2 Duchies for himself, Powys in Wales and Tyrconnell in Ireland.

In 1181 Cadwgan discovers that his daughter in law Jutta is plotting to kill him. He manages to solve this problem with words rather then prison. He also holds a great tournament in his kingdom, the first and only during his reign.
And in June his 4th daughter died aged 26 years.

This is the Kingdom of Wales in 1182:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00026.jpg

Blue are the holdings of Cynyr, Cadwgans half brother and King of Ireland. He's fighting against one of Cadwgans vassals.

On 26.8.1182 Cadwgans daughter Enid marries the son of King Eric of Denmark, strenghten the bonds with Denmark.

In July 1183 the Danish King calls Cadwgan to the arms against Sweden. Cadwgan agrees, mans his ship but the war is over before he arrives at Swedens shores.
In the same year Arthwr, Cadwgans youngest son dies of great pox.

On 21th October 1185 the King of France dies in the holy land. Cadwgans grand son is now King of France.

And suddenly Cadwgans sister Lleigy is Queen of Ireland.

A mayor in Powys revolts in 1186 but the peasants are crushed pretty fast.

But worse, after 100 years under Norway reign Wales lose the claim on Cornwall and Devon.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00040.jpg

And in March 1190 the Lords in Ireland revolt against Queen Lleigy the Unready. Cadwgan tries to sieze the moment and claims Ireland in March 1190. Unfortunately the King dies on 14th September 1190 while his troops are besieging Queen Lleigy in Wales.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00043.jpg

And this was the reign of King Cadwgan I of Wales. He lost Ireland. He lost the counties in England. He fought a senseless battle in Brittany. But he succeeded in making strong allies and married his kids into influencal families in Europe, one of his grand sons is King of France, another will become Duke of Sevilla.

So, it wasn't the best reign in Wales but it wasn't the worst, either. Maybe his son can reunite Ireland and Wales again? Llewelyn III is a brilliant strategist after all.

Oh and by the way, when Llewelyns mother dies he inherits the county of Kulm:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s113/ZarPeter/2013-01-25_00041.jpg

And here is the save:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/b8pgs060vf3ir8g/Wales1190_09_14.ck2

Avaris

2013-01-25, 06:28 PM

Well, putting myself forward for the save again. Not entirely sure how I'd deal with the current issues, but its the weekend so I can actually play!

Grif

2013-01-25, 08:21 PM

Dang. Ireland lost again. :smallamused:

As always, 24 hours to put your name in.

Silfir

2013-01-26, 01:10 AM

The person that is writing this! The person that is writing this! The person that is writing this!

Kurgan

2013-01-26, 11:54 AM

I volunteer for a go.

iyaerP

2013-01-26, 06:27 PM

I kind of wish that I had this game and infinitely more free time so I could try this out.

Grif

2013-01-26, 07:17 PM

Silfir, looks like you get to continue the war. :smallwink:

Silfir

2013-01-27, 08:49 AM

(My guy is 32?! This is going to take a while. I don't play the game at a breakneck speed and keeping track of all that happens isn't helping matters along. Here is a summary of the first 13 years of my reign, to start with!)

When I got notice of my father's death, I don't think I was entirely coherent. I struggled from a nasty fever on top of a constant feeling of unease. The burdens of my position seem tremendous to bear.

I cannot say I cared much for the man. The fool had lost the kingdom of Ireland I was destined to bring to glory. And he had the gall to kick the bucket before he could take it back from the hands of his own little sister. No matter, I shall take what is mine. I am known far and wide for my knowledge of military strategy. For some reason tales of my bravery are less widespread, but I shall be certain to correct that misperception. Once I am completely fit for battle, naturally. It would not be seemly to lead a charge with a running nose. While I recuperate, I shall be far more valuable to my kingdom at home.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196437/U9HXasEG3IA.jpg

After some necessary rearrangements in the council, my attentions turn to the war effort. Marshal Farquhar reassures me the war is going well; while the Queen's forces are currently besieging the holdings of my brother Caradog in Tyrconnell, I am besieging her only personal holdings in Perfeddwlad, and my forces vastly outnumber both her garrison and her forces. He suggests I finish the siege and take out her host in turn. I graciously accept his suggestion, though naturally I had thought of it first.

Unfortunately, within the first month, Queen Lleigy manages to squash the rebellion, enabling her to gather her full forces...

Which turns out doesn't matter, because only four months after I took over the war, she gets deposed again.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196438/zRFYBKLWNEZ.jpg

My chancellor Cadell carefully explains to me that now that there is a king in Ireland instead of a queen, my justification to press my weak claim is no longer valid, giving me no choice but to abandon the war and dismiss my levies. THEN he tells me that I have a valid casus belli against the new king because I happen to be second in line to the succession. (My uncle's brothers are all dead, I'm his oldest nephew, and he only has one daughter.) When I ask why I couldn't just have continued the siege under the new war instead of having to do it all over again, all I get is a blank stare.

Nonetheless, war is quickly declared again, and with the grace of the lord and 375 gold worth in mercenaries, our success shall be swift and assured!

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196440/xWGP4siDpK8.jpg

Despite initial setbacks, the war is quickly decided, after the third attempt by a faction within the Irish nobility to force my brother to abdicate as my forces are pounding their sorry behinds. For some reason or another, the Duchy of Brittany has become part of the Kingdom of Ireland at some point.

I have ordered the new maps hung up in my bedroom, my study and the royal outhouse. Never before has our dynasty ruled such vast domains! (I think.)

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196446/hQgqYm.jpg

I decide to help out my brother-in-law as he is attacked by the heathens far to the south. This is a picture of when that seemed like a good idea.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196447/btHdnKo.jpg

The Duke of Connacht, that treacherous swine, takes it upon himself to replace me with my brother Caradog while the forces of the united kingdom are defending my brother-in-law against the heathens. His forces are pitiful and my boats are swift.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196448/vCk7OquWrZQz.jpg

Wait. What do you mean, "large band of rebels"? And "so-and-so joins the war"?

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196449/7CZGMFy0.jpg

Though somewhat diminished by the siege, my forces still outnumber those of the treacherous Connacht by a far margin - Approximately 7800 against 6500, and I can attack without penalty from the south. Success is virtually assured.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196450/xejwuQtRhW.jpg

Since I cannot afford to lose in the second attempt, I order additional reinforcements before I engage the main rebel force in battle.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196451/phWxyCQli8.jpg

It turns out to be a near-fatal mistake. I end up having to dismiss all of my mercenaries long before the end of the war - fortunately, though, I am left with enough levies to clean up the stragglers. Surely my troubles end here!

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196452/VTmGRE.jpg

Oh for the love of... Take the smelly county! My kingdom is far more important.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196453/qohpLN.jpg

Beaten soundly, Connacht accedes to a White Peace in name only, as he and my would-be usurper brother are imprisoned.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196454/9Fd3GrjOkRX.jpg

The following years are much quieter.

In early 1199, Prince Caradog, my brother and would-be usurper, succumbs to illness of its own (fortunate, I'd say, that I'd extorted a princely ransom before). I would say that proves once and for all who is the stronger of us two. At any rate, I am now the alive of the two, and I'll take that over anything. His son only retains weak claims on the kingdom, and with my son and numerous daughters the line of succession is secure enough that he won't be a threat.

Two months later, the ringleader Neiniad dies in prison. Much of his influence lay in his duchy, which I've revoked - his son, while annoying, is only a mere count. He shall not be much of a threat to my rule.

And even later that year, in August - Cynyr, my remaining brother, formerly King or Ireland (twice), dies of smallpox. Also, for some reason or another, my realm now spreads far and wide across Europe:

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196455/kh9syGC.jpg

My son Cadwgan comes of age, and I manage to find a more than suitable match:

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196456/8H1FGs2aE4.jpg

Grif

2013-01-27, 01:11 PM

I like how your brother keeps clinging on to his throne in Ireland despite the odds stacked against him. :smallbiggrin:

EDIT: WTF? Why is Jerusalem right in the middle of France? :smalleek:

And is that Scotland... taking over England? Wow.

EDIT2: Wait. When did we get Brittany? Didn't we lose all that in some war?

EDIT3: Oh right. The vassal that got Brittany must have died at some point and your lucky king inherited the whole thing right out of the Scottish noses.

Zar Peter

2013-01-27, 01:23 PM

Well, it seems that since Cadwgan I fought for Britanny, their new Duke first went to Scotland, then became independend and in the end became part of Ireland when he lost the Kingdom. And since Llyewlyn III regained Ireland, he gained Brittany as bonus :smallcool:

And Csanad must have been inherited during the reign of Llyewlyn II, then lost, and then inherited back by Llyewelyn III. Just wait till your mother dies, then you get Kulm, too (Although I fear that the King of Hungary soon declares war for Csanad).

Silfir

2013-01-27, 02:02 PM

Just for the curious: I was nominally a part of the Crusade for Anatolia, but it ended without any participation on my part. I had actually deployed a 9-man army with my king at the head to the Black Sea, intending to have him do his part, but it turns out I completely forgot he was too craven to even leave the ship.

My king is kind of a knob anyway, even though he lost his arbitrary nature when he heard of the rebellion against his rule only, like, months after he'd finally beaten Cynyr to obtain it. He must have realized that complete disregard for honor or the rule of law was one of the causes of Ireland turning into the mess of backstabbers, quabblers and usurpers that it is now. (Alongside the decision by his forebears to change the succession law to Gavelkind, splintering the possessions of the ruling family with every generation and making it that much easier for the smaller lords to be medieval trolls.)

This state of complete lawnessness disgusts him, of course because he thinks himself as by far the best choice the king but not just: it weakens the power of Ireland and Wales to the point they just have to bend over and take it when Norway comes knocking for a county. The kingdoms must be unified and stand as one - for him, of course.

I should mention that at this time, we are allied to the Holy Roman Empire as well as the King of Scotland through marriages of my children, and that our dynasty at least stands to inherit the very sizable (and conveniently located!) Duchy of Normandy, since my second marriage has resulted in several daughters. Things are going to get unruly if the duchess bears a son. I have not yet decided on a course of action.

Zar Peter

2013-01-27, 02:24 PM

By the way: I think Cynyr isn't your brother, it's Cadwgans half-brother, your uncle, the legitimized bastard-son of Llyewelyn II, the Great. The old guy was really good for sum FUN :smallbiggrin:

iyaerP

2013-01-27, 03:15 PM

Things are going to get unruly if the duchess bears a son. I have not yet decided on a course of action.

Assassinate him of course.

Silfir

2013-01-27, 03:45 PM

Hell no. He'd be first up for Duke of Normandy and second in line to the other kingdoms. If I'm going to assassinate anyone, it's going to be my first son.

(I was thinking about switching election laws though.)

(Also, yes, Cynyr was the half-brother of my dad or something - got him confused with my also-dead actual brother Caradog - and I'd invite you to explain to the royal buttocks why I should care now that they've both bitten it. :smallwink:)

iyaerP

2013-01-27, 06:09 PM

Oh, I was thinking that he was the son of someone else, and hus in line for brittany which you had just aquired.

IthilanorStPete

2013-01-27, 08:53 PM

Flickerdart

2013-01-27, 09:08 PM

Well, this is certainly turning out to have lots of hijinks. :smalltongue: Possibly noobish question: why do nearly all the screenshots have the big notification icons at the top? I only have those come up infrequently, usually for an empty council seat or when I need to pick an ambition.
There are a couple of icons that might stick around for a while:
Claim: A claim that you have can be pressed in war. It's not always convenient to press every claim you have, especially if its territory belongs to a powerful neighbour.
Create Title: You have enough counties to create a title. These are expensive, and having too many kingdoms or duchies makes the nobles mad, so waiting a while before creating them often makes sense.
Levy Raised Too Long: Vassals get uppity when you've been using their troops for too long. Not much you can do about this other than win the war.
Imprison: Someone committed a crime. If it was, say, your 23-Martial army commander, you might want to let it slide.
Call Allies: Allies won't come if they like your enemy, and then you can't call them again for a while, so it's best to not call them if it's unlikely they will help.

IthilanorStPete

2013-01-27, 09:12 PM

There are a couple of icons that might stick around for a while:
Claim: A claim that you have can be pressed in war. It's not always convenient to press every claim you have, especially if its territory belongs to a powerful neighbour.
Create Title: You have enough counties to create a title. These are expensive, and having too many kingdoms or duchies makes the nobles mad, so waiting a while before creating them often makes sense.
Levy Raised Too Long: Vassals get uppity when you've been using their troops for too long. Not much you can do about this other than win the war.
Imprison: Someone committed a crime. If it was, say, your 23-Martial army commander, you might want to let it slide.
Call Allies: Allies won't come if they like your enemy, and then you can't call them again for a while, so it's best to not call them if it's unlikely they will help.

Weird; I've never got an icon or notification for any of those.

Grif

2013-01-28, 01:37 AM

Weird; I've never got an icon or notification for any of those.

Maybe you turned them off?

It's quite common to see all these icons in the reign of one king.

Silfir

2013-01-28, 07:16 AM

Game still ongoing, and King Llywelyn shows no sign of stopping. (Not too long ago he finally stopped being stressed, which means he's now healthier than ever.)

And if this is any inclination...

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196824/rEYh8tKa.png

Wroth, Drunkard, paranoid, cruel, constantly stressed out and beastly strong... And still alive and kicking at 85. (There is probably a lot of kicking, actually. Whoever she keeps around as palace staff I do not envy.) Nevermind my king being craven; I think Death is scared of her. I'm not ruling out the possibility that she'll survive me.

Grif

2013-01-28, 07:53 AM

Silfir

2013-01-28, 08:31 PM

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196971/9bTBjwlSWOQV.jpg

Holding two kingdoms was fine for a while, but my true glory awaits me still. Now I am holder of more kingdoms than any individual. That young upstart Charles IV of France only has two; that of France and Jerusalem. What does it matter that he commands over a realm five times the size of mine?

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I find myself getting unruly; even the Grand Tournament in honor of my rule couldn't distract me for long, as spectacular as it was. This is not simply out of a desire to spread the glory of my rule as far as possible; With Norway, France and the Holy Roman Empire ever expanding their realms, unless I expand my own, I run the risk of being absorbed just like all the others. I already had to suffer the indignity of losing Shrewsbury to the Norwegians. Opportunities for expansion close to home are unfortunately scarce. I need to look further... And so I have my chancellor do his work. With my bolstered war chest and the might of three united kingdoms at my side, the Republic of Genoa stands no chance.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196974/uRNn4Q.jpg

At some point during the campaign, I find myself happening upon a man weary of life threatening to sin against the lord by throwing himself down a balcony. From a very, very safe distance, I manage to talk him out of it.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196976/jEv4DAh.jpg

The county of Cournouaille, mine by right, passes outside my realm with the death of its countess. One day, I shall have to take it back, but it's the least of my concerns for now.

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I have detected a grand opportunity for glory; we shall assist in extinguishing the heathen muslims from the shores of Africa, spreading the worship of our lands to all corners of the Earth. It doesn't hurt that vast lands, military infrastructure and taxable population would be added to our realm - though civilizing the heathens would take quite some time.

I have the pleasure of receiving aid from several allies in this effort. Considering how they barely spare the effort to flip me off when I ask them to defend me against the rebellious lords in my own home, they must sure love eradicating muslims a lot to help me with such vast forces.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196978/HvyfE1X7.jpg

These two kingdoms are vastly larger than mine, and at around the same time they decide they would quite like to have some of my money. France was already gathering troops in the tens of thousands inside my provinces when I realized that I stood to lose about 70 gold if I just surrendered - I ordered the white flags sent out immediately to be enthusiastically waved at the first opportunity. I did the same for Norway's bid for money, though they at least scored ten times the amount. Not enough to make a severe dent in my finances, though. Given the relative size of our realms, that's not a lot to pay for a truce of several years to come!

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196979/PMzEOf64vtFa.jpg

The first Holy War has only spurred my appetite for power and riches. I am eager to bring Christendom to the Emirate of Alger as well.

(Incidentally, I finally remembered the solution for unwanted heirs - make them bishops! I kept a bishopric in my personal demesne just in case. Spoiler alert: It's still there.)

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196980/YHgZjtp.jpg

Even if this tall tale should be true, I am probably the one who least needs to worry about it.

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I am dismayed to find out that Efa, my oldest sister, has plotted to kill me. I struggle to find out what led her to such an endeavour this late in her days, when she herself had nothing to gain from it. True, we haven't spoken in thirty years, and I have honestly kind of forgotten she even existed. That might have something to do with it.

She is happy to end the plot when I ask her to. Perhaps a chance to talk was all she wanted.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196982/HCV1TAFtkga.jpg

The second Holy War in Africa is a resounding triumph. Futher opportunities for expansion are somewhat limited, as the Italian city-states have just about divided up all of the rest between them.

(This might be just my impression, but I think the patch made merchant republics a teeny-tiny bit too powerful in vanilla. The muslims are pushed back all the way to Egypt and with the exception of Wales, pretty much all of North Africa is either Venice, Genoa or Pisa.)

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196983/ADkEwG.jpg

I knew it had been too quiet for too long. To be fair, I did successfully plot to revoke one of her counties (Perfeddwlad - it's part of the Duchy of Gwynedd, after all, so rightfully mine all things considered. She doesn't seem to understand that).

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196984/qR3ojuJ.jpg

For those that paid attention: Yes, that is the same guy who "convinced" Cynyr to abdicate in my favor to end the civil war. Apparently he just can't make up his flipping mind.

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Now that's just not fair. Where are the large bands of loyalists flocking to my banner, huh?

With several other lords joining the rebellion, my remaining levies are not nearly large enough to face its full strength. Fortunately, I have enough moolah in the storage to pay all of the mercenaries in the world for several years, and I only need two bands.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196987/vNDU3nx.jpg

While my hired goons gleefully dismember the wretched Irish traitors, One of my little adventures has born unforeseen consequences. I briefly consider legitimizing the girl to have her join my already growing family, but then I remember that such a thing would likely turn all of my children against me. I cannot risk division within my own palace while civil war already wages on the outside. I have no choice but to denounce her.

Later my spymaster approaches me with a plan to further an unfortunate accident, but I cannot bring myself to sign off on it. The girl will have enough trouble as it stands.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196988/CvLDK0U59J.jpg

With my mercenaries, victory was always assured - only the Duchess still remains opposing me. Now most of Ireland's nobility is languishing in my prison, marked traitors - which means I can revoke their titles and redistribute them within my dynasty. Something which I do not hesitate doing.

Meanwhile, I am told the Kingdoms of England and Norway have separated once more upon the death of old Eilif; the young King of England now holds only a small realm on the Isle, but he is well and truly independent. For how long, one can't say, but it might be that there are opportunities for myself or my descendants to find here.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196989/PRc5ZM.jpg

Blessed with an enormous number of daughters, I pride myself on finding some extraordinary matches for them; several princes of empires and kings - and now a full-blown duke in a matrilinear marriage, securing that the future Douxes of Galilee shall be true-blooded Mathrafals.

Annest also stands to inherit the Duchy of Normandy from my wife, which means her own children with the Doux of Galilee will hold two duchies under the Mathrafal banner. It's unlikely either will pass outside the realms of their respective overlords, but it's always good to spread the dynasty far and wide!

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196990/dODQwsI2.jpg

I receive word that my beloved mother, at the blessed age of 88, has finally departed this world - and that Kulm has passed on to a relative, instead of myself, due to the high crown authority of the Holy Roman Empire. A lot of waiting to gain nothing whatsoever. With her affable personality, it's safe to say no one has made more lives around her miserable in one lifetime - but you have to admire this unbendable will to live.

Myself, while I feel less pressured than I did in the first decade of my rule, I also feel my strength succumbing over time. After putting out the hopefully last rebellion in Ireland, I decided to hold off on starting any major campaigns myself; I would not want my son to end up having to finish what I started. I shall do better than my father. (It's comforting, to some degree, that I have been less of a pain to my own subjects than my mother has been to hers.)

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196992/SU3wuzreA4d2.jpg

I end up outliving my mother - but only by two and a half years. As I write the last page on my memoirs, I can barely hold the feather aloft.

Songs might not be sung of my bravery, but I have through skill in battle and diplomacy nearly doubled the size of my realm. By son could not have hoped for a better preparation; through divine providence or not, he is my only son, and will succeed me in all my titles, followed by his own grandsons, who I have already been able to grace with new lands in Africa, where all our hopes are still based.

Trouble is still afoot. France, the Holy Roman Empire and Norway are still vastly more powerful, and it shall remain so at least until the heathens are civilized and brought in line; but one day, a Mathrafal of my bloodline might be able to see them in the eye, and spit in it for the indignities they have wrought on us. I'd have liked to see those times myself, but even one as I cannot live forever.

Do not weep for me.

--- King Llywelyn III.

I close with an image of the current world map:

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/196993/Haymc7.jpg

As I've mentioned, the merchant republics seem to be running away with the game in 1.09. Pisa is one of the most powerful realms period. France and the Holy Roman Empire have shown severe blob-tendencies, constantly expanding their realm and showing very little instability. Norway and Denmark are very strong as well, Denmark winning a crusade almost singlehandely and owning the crap out of the Seljuks. The Papacy has scored the Archbishopric of Galicia at some point, for whatever reason. Csanad is still Welsh - the King of Hungary seems to be afraid of us. Kulm couldn't leave the Holy Roman Empire. Our new king's mother is still alive and kicking, so the Duchy of Normany is not yet Mathrafal; but it will be.

Weirdly enough, I cannot find the Ilkhanate on the map. They must have gotten their asses kicked.

The download link is this way (https://www.dropbox.com/s/czvyfqnbvfhu7ba/Wales1222_05_30.ck2).