Paradox AAR - Shadow of the Acropolis

[SilverLeaf167]

In antiquity, Athens was the true cradle of western civilization, politics and economy.
In time, however, it was sidelined by Constantinople as the greatest metropolis of the Greek people, and slowly forgotten.
It's about time we fixed that!

https://i.imgur.com/xkcIcOu.jpg?1

This is a potential mega-campaign, starting from Crusader Kings 2 and, if all goes well, exporting to Europa Universalis 4 and perhaps even Victoria 2. Our family of choice is the house of Skleros, Strategoi of Athens in the year 867! With time, we will hopefully expand to conquer Greece and more.


https://i.imgur.com/1FFHHiR.jpg

Conquering isn't the main point, however, especially with a game this long; this AAR will be narrated by a impersonal in-character narrator, and in the Crusader Kings 2 portion of the playthrough, gameplay decisions will be decided by the traits, history and events of our current character. Europa Universalis 4 will be steered by our rulers, too, but also our idea groups and missions. In Victoria 2, the ruling party will have a lot of influence. You readers will also get to vote on certain issues, especially in EU4 and Vic 2.

Though I won't be using meta-game terminology, the narrative might be a little hard to follow if you're not familiar with the game, but hopefully you'll give it a try and just ask if you don't understand something! Also, since I obviously can't mention everything happening in the world, feel free to ask about anything that crosses your mind.


Crusader Kings 2 - A New Pope

Pantherios Skleros, 867; Chapter #1: The Cuckolded Cat (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19658879&postcount=2)
Theodoros Skleros, 874; Chapter #2: The Sullen Son (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19658995&postcount=3)
Antonios/Adrianos Skleros, 890; Chapter #3: The Ragged Regent (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19659200&postcount=4)
Adrianos Skleros, 905; Chapter #4: The Prudent Pilgrim (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19659691&postcount=9)
SPECIAL #1: State of the World (939) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19660128&postcount=10)
Kallinikos Skleros, 939; Chapter #5: The Worrisome Wars (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19666029&postcount=17)
Kallinikos Skleros, 949; Chapter #6: The Enervated Empire (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19674125&postcount=29)
Kaisarios Skleros, 968; Chapter #7: The Submissive Sicilians (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19678773&postcount=33)
Romanos/Kaisarios II Skleros, 998; Chapter #8: The Dashing Despot (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19688061&postcount=39)
SPECIAL #2: Shadows of Mdina (1019) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19692537&postcount=53)
Kaisarios II Skleros, 1033; Chapter #9: The Sovereign Saint (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19708027&postcount=61)
Staurakios Skleros, 1066; Chapter #10: The Finest Frenchman (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19712745&postcount=75)
Kaisarios III Skleros, 1077; Chapter #11: The Friendly Fiend (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19719284&postcount=78)
Tiberios Skleros, 1104; Chapter #12: The Kindly Kingmaker (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19725233&postcount=88)
SPECIAL #3: The Kaisariad (2015) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19727915&postcount=100)
Philaretos Skleros, 1130; Chapter #13: The Simple Scholar (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19742542&postcount=103)
Theophanes Skleros, 1144; Chapter #14: The Clueless Child (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19747507&postcount=104)
Theophanes Skleros, 1155; Chapter #15: The Pious Protector (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19774461&postcount=122)
Theophanes Skleros, 1175; Chapter #16: The Bored Basileus (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19783300&postcount=123)
SPECIAL #4: The Shame of Béjar (1168) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19788242&postcount=127)
Kaisarios IV Skleros, 1193; Chapter 17: The Fierce Father (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19798138&postcount=133)
SUPER SPECIAL AWESOME #5: Sūpā Jūjigun Kaisarios no Girisha na Bōken! (2015) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19804383&postcount=138)
Theophanes II Skleros, 1217; Chapter 18: The Crusader's Crown (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19832618&postcount=145)
Theophanes II Skleros, 1228; Chapter 19: The Diligent Dilettante (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19846035&postcount=158)
Pankratios Skleros, 1241; Chapter 20: The Gentle Giant (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19861050&postcount=161)
SPECIAL #6: The Unbearable Lightness of Ruling (1262) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19864331&postcount=166)
Pankratios II Skleros, 1262; Chapter #21: The Jovial Jerry (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19933941&postcount=169)
SPECIAL #7: The Fate of Germany (1278) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19993172&postcount=185)
Pankratios II Skleros, 1278; Chapter #22: The Cheerless Cripple (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20051175&postcount=190)
Philippos II Skleros, 1296; Chapter #23: The Sickly Season (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20078336&postcount=201)
Philippos II/Niketas Skleros, 1329; Chapter 24: The Curious Crusades (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20102402&postcount=214)
Alexandrios Skleros, 1337; Chapter 25: The Yapping Youth (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20123438&postcount=222)
SPECIAL #8: The Khazar Diaspora (1361) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20131094&postcount=224)
Alexandrios Skleros, 1361; Chapter #26: The Calmed Conqueror (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20151930&postcount=229)
Philotheos Skleros, 1402; Chapter #27: The Haughty Huntsman (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20187720&postcount=242)
Stephanos Skleros, 1430; Chapter #28: The Basilissa's Burden (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20208192&postcount=254)
INTERLUDE #1: A Summary of Sorts (1444) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20211615&postcount=261)


Europa Universalis 4 - The Empire Cuts Back

INTERLUDE #2: Western Winds Blowing (1444) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20450374&postcount=275)
Zoe Skleros, 1444; Chapter #29: A Fragile Balance (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20464860&postcount=287)
Zoe Skleros, 1455; Chapter #30: Human Wave Tactics (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20479806&postcount=293)
Zoe Skleros, 1471; Chapter #31: Franks? I Don't Give a Damn (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20487268&postcount=310)
Lysandra Skleros, 1485; Chapter #32: Hey, Wanna Trade? (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20492394&postcount=318)
Tiberios II Skleros, 1506; Chapter #33: Par for the Gulf Course (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20500099&postcount=322)
Tiberios II Skleros, 1528; Chapter #34: The Clergy Doth Protest Too Much (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20506146&postcount=325)
SPECIAL #9: Markets of Muscat (1536) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20509962&postcount=326)
Georgios Skleros, 1542; Chapter #35: Indies Development (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20528128&postcount=332)
Georgios Skleros, 1556; Chapter #36: Reformation Deformation (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20532518&postcount=336)
Georgios Skleros, 1572; Chapter #37: The Approaching Storm (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20540432&postcount=340)
Georgios Skleros, 1578; Chapter #38: Justice for the League (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20560105&postcount=364)
Antonios II Skleros, 1598; Chapter #39: Alexander's Dream (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20584129&postcount=372)
Antonios II Skleros, 1624; Chapter #40: Successful Successions (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20598474&postcount=376)
Theodora Skleros, 1640; Chapter #41: Crumbling Thrones (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20619248&postcount=382)
SPECIAL #10: The Voyage of Nifas (1657) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20697960&postcount=386)
Theodora Skleros, 1657; Chapter #42: The Red-Painted Mountains (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20703012&postcount=392)
Manuel Skleros, 1670; Chapter #43: Manuel Labor (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20723334&postcount=393)
Manuel Skleros, 1687; Chapter #44: Damning Display of Deference (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20744815&postcount=401)
Theodoros II Skleros, 1700; Chapter #45: Tearing at the Seams (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20919547&postcount=403)
CK2 Save: February 15th, 1228 (Founding of Carthage)
Link (http://ge.tt/3UFGbqT2/v/0?c) (as requested by TheTeaMustFlow)

Feel free to check out the two prior (unfinished) AARs in my signature, too.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #1: The Cuckolded Cat

It is the year 867 A.D.

https://i.imgur.com/gDV3xgw.jpg?2

Pantherios Skleros, head of his house and Strategos of Athens, stands atop the ancient hillfort known as the Athenian acropolis and thoughtfully surveys his holdings. In addition to the legendary city and county of Athens - the ancestral capital of Greece - he also controls the viceroyal Theme of the same name and maintains the loyalty of his two vassal Counts in Hellas and Demetrias. His small but ancient realm is the one and only true center of Greek civilization, even if the Basileus of Eastern Rome prefers to reign from Constantinople.

https://i.imgur.com/V7AbLxF.jpg?1

Pantherios himself is an aging and perhaps somewhat simple man, a wise if overly lenient ruler. As any proper Greek, he is a devout follower of the Eastern Orthodox patriarchate. He respects his own subjects and their loyalty, recognizing the city's importance as the heart and blood of his realm and aiming to increase their wealth as well as his own. He recently remarried to the young Princess Hildegard of West Francia, securing a probably rather nominal alliance with King Charles Karling the Bald. However, the old Strategos is worried for his family's future; though his father and grandfather have held the Theme before him, it is still but a viceroyalty, granted to them at the Emperor's pleasure, and he may not choose to be so kind to the generations to come.

https://i.imgur.com/T0IwvyF.jpg?1

On the other hand, even if the Theme were lost, his de facto vassals would remain. Hellas is controlled by his own son, heir and Steward Theodoros, a grown man much more devious and talented than his father – likely to be an excellent Strategos, assuming he inherits in due time. He has two sons of his own, the older Antonios currently being groomed by Pantherios as a future ruler.

https://i.imgur.com/XhAxrNQ.jpg?1

The county of Demetrias is held by his Marshal Sisinnios, one of his many competent councilors. Though he is very loyal, Pantherios isn't particularly fond of his gluttonous and womanizing ways, which only surfaced after he was granted the county a few years ago. Pantherios has contemplated just getting rid of him on many frustrated occasions, yet cannot bring himself to fail his honor in such a way.

https://i.imgur.com/BmdQT9X.jpg?1

The Eastern Roman Empire itself is ruled by the great Basileios Makedon, a magnificent man greatly respected by his vassals. He is currently busy defending the realm from petty Muslim invaders, which he is indeed very good at, but both his sons are only small babes. If he were to hypothetically die now, the stability of the realm would be greatly upset.

https://i.imgur.com/kdJEtsB.jpg?2

https://i.imgur.com/OLxxJUP.jpg?1

The Basileus has raised his rightful portion of Athens' men to fight in the war, and Sisinnios has been sent along with them, but the Skleroi don't bother involving themselves personally. Though the defense of the realm is obviously important to them, the Imperial armies are more than capable of handling it. However, perhaps in some misdirected religious anger, the Basileus orders the expulsion of all Jews from the Empire, including a large portion of its merchants and moneylenders. Pantherios has no personal or financial attachment to these Hebrew folks, but finds the decision unnecessary and cruel. The less empathetic Theodoros just laments not borrowing money from then while he had the chance.

https://i.imgur.com/axbaUqw.jpg?1

Especially with this latest turn of events, Pantherios' ambitions of wealth just might turn out to be his downfall; having to pick up much of the Jews' business has increased his workload to the point that he can't fully handle it and the stress is really starting to get to him.

https://i.imgur.com/iNaaMY8.jpg?1

His deteriorating mental state definitely doesn't get any better when in January 868 his dear wife Hildegard reveals that she's pregnant, even though the presumable date of conception really doesn't quite click in Pantherios' head and ever-growing paranoia besets him. Is his wife carrying a bastard?

Indeed, Pantherios can't bear the uncertainty, and decides to hire an agent to spy on Hildegard. It's for the best, he reckons. However, even when her maid fails to come up with anything suspicious, he just can't let his obsession go and ends up confronting her directly. Even that doesn't get him any straight answer, only serving to strain their relationship further as his loving wife flees the palace in tears.

https://i.imgur.com/hq5a75x.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/CQOFYPY.jpg?1

The growing stress has an effect on the Strategos' upbringing of Antonios, contrasting with his usually much more benevolent teachings, but his somewhat confused little grandson really doesn't seem to mind this new attitude.

https://i.imgur.com/PIq6iVP.jpg?1

Rumors are starting to circulate of Hildegard having had an affair with Count Isidoros of Brendesion during his recent diplomatic visit, and Pantherios really can't just let the matter stand. The wife has proven uncooperative, so he goes directly to the adulterous bastard himself! Of course, he denies it too, but a proud Strategos can't just accept such bold-faced lies from a lowly Count in Southern Italy! He can already practically hear the Athenian court mocking his naivety, and in the heat of the moment he challenges Isidoros – a man 20 years his junior – to a personal duel. It is probably for the best that the challenge is refused, but all it really accomplishes is staining both men's honor.

https://i.imgur.com/U6FctRx.jpg?1

Hildegard gives birth to a sickly young girl a few months later. Lacking any proof, Pantherios is forced to accept her as his own, and justly resolves not to take out his frustrations on the little innocent Eudocia.

The vicious rumors of her heritage are silenced but not forgotten. The ruling couple's relationship returns somewhat closer to normal, but is still rather cold, and Pantherios can't even pretend to enjoy his wife's company. He is, however, flattered by the Basileus suddenly offering him a position as military commander, even though his actual military talents are rather limited; it can only be assumed that the Empire has taken some serious losses in its Crusade for Sicily. Pantherios gladly accepts, hoping to distract himself from his miserable private life. He is doubly disappointed not to receive an invitation to command the Imperial armies when rebel Strategoi rise against his liege's centralization attempts, but really can't spend his own army's meager strength either.

https://i.imgur.com/Be6wPV9.jpg?1

As the Empire is ravaged by civil war, Pantherios catches wind of plans on his own life. In a paranoid panic, he isolates himself on a small island off the coast, leaving Theodoros to reign as regent while he's... recovering his wits. About two years later he finally decides to return, just in time to receive the controversial news that the rebels have taken the capital and come ever closer to enforcing their will on the Basileus, yet the war drags on. While Pantherios is upset by the realm being weakened in this way, Theodoros sees it as a future opportunity. Pantherios once again needs a way to distract himself from the guilt, deciding to take up gardening and relax a bit.

https://i.imgur.com/xg3NZbL.jpg?1

The great debacle threatens to repeat itself as Hildegard is once again pregnant under even more suspicious circumstances, Pantherios having avoided her for months. However, she once again denies all accusations and retreats to her private quarters, only speaking to her maids. Pantherios is quickly starting to wonder how he ever expected such a particularly lustful wife to be fun.

https://i.imgur.com/FwNGXr6.jpg?1

All this stress and endless humiliation finally proves too much on the 9th of October 874 when the old Strategos sleeps away, leaving his material holdings to Theodoros, who is also promptly granted the traditional viceroyal Theme, despite Pantherios' concerns.

https://i.imgur.com/GcuSrze.jpg?1

Long live Theodoros Skrelos, Strategos of Athens, Count of Atheniai and Hellas!

https://i.imgur.com/jglTIbe.jpg?1
A few notes on style.

While I had a pretty good format for EU4, writing about CK2 is completely new to me. So far, my style has been quite similar, but it is sure to develop into something more appropriate to this very different game. I'm not always sure what to mention, what to screenshot, what to describe in detail etc. as it's such a tremendously detailed game, but if you think there's either too little or too much of anything – anything – make sure to say it out loud so I can adjust. I decided to use character death as a general cut-off point (for now), as otherwise I'd just end up writing five chapters in one. After all, not having elections every 8 years allows me to write more at once anyway.
Wiz (https://lparchive.org/Paradox-Hohenzollern/Update%2002/) and OrcusMcP (www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?383346-Let-s-Play-Crusader-Kings-2-So-Much-for-the-Glory-of-Rome)'s great AARs are the closest thing I have to guidelines, but I do want to maintain my distinct, more detail-oriented style, as it's obviously what I feel most comfortable writing, though there's a lot to improve and I hope you'll help me do so.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #2: The Sullen Son

It seems that poor Theodoros might have a little too much of his father in him, as he's currently severely depressed and bedridden; at least his wife Theokriste, quite charming for a lowborn, seems to be faithful. Assuming Theodoros recovers, he is likely to be a much more effective ruler than his late father. He's already more powerful, in fact, having direct control of both Athens and Hellas rather than just the former. His ultimate goal is to become the proper King of Greece, but it remains to be seen whether he has any chances of fulfilling this lofty ambition.

https://i.imgur.com/jglTIbe.jpg?1

Theodoros takes Antonios back under his wing and grants the privilege of raising Eudocia to the widowed Hildegard, who soon gives birth to the other obvious bastard she was carrying, though the father is once again unknown. Despite her pleads, the spiteful Theodoros refuses to let her remarry, so she chooses to flee back to West Francia instead and completely abandon her two children, never to be heard of again.

Theodoros really couldn't care less about his stepmother. Having finally climbed out of bed, he isn't content with just two thirds of the Theme. That upstart Sisinnios must be eliminated! In the meantime, however, he's gotten married and sired three children, making it somewhat more complicated. If only Pantherios had done this sooner... In his current mental state and having replaced Sisinnios with his own Marshal, the ruthless Theodoros doesn't hesitate to start plotting a series of murders to eventually secure Demetrias for himself. Of course, the plot fails to stay a secret for long, but he really doesn't care, as long as he succeeds.

Antonios grows into a mischievous but overall competent young man, having been thrown around from one guardian to another for all of his childhood. He might not become a beloved ruler, but he just might be a successful one.

https://i.imgur.com/ApMBMK6.jpg?1

The murderous conspiracy continues to stumble along as a bribed maid manages to kill Sisinnios' baby heir Tryphon in his sleep, yet also get caught and openly admit Theodoros' involvement. Sisinnios is understandably enraged, but most others are content to just watch nervously from the sidelines. At this point, Theodoros really has nothing to lose: all it takes is a couple more dead children...

In a clear act of divine justice, Theodoros' youngest daughter Basillike is struck down by pneumonia, but his wife Theokriste soon gives him a new child christened Theognosia.

After eight years of civil war, all of which Athens has safely ignored, the rebels have lost their footing through gross strategic mistakes. After some final battles, both sides finally agree on a white peace, rendering all those lost lives (and coin) for naught. Theodoros is rather disappointed, having eagerly awaited a loosening of the Imperial bureaucracy.

Antonios is married to Irmengarde, Princess of Italy. Many in the court aren't happy with the concept of another 'Karling whore' being brought to court, especially as even her name reminds them of Hildegard, but Theodoros is sure it'll be just fine. Italy is too valuable an ally to pass up on.

The newly married Antonios is anxious to finally receive his own fief to rule, and Theodoros is quite expansionist himself, so he's quite excited to spot a good opportunity: the Hafsid Emirate of Crete is independent, unallied and unprotected, rather rich, located close by, rightfully a part of Greece and best of all ruled by Muslims. At the moment, Athens' armies just about equal theirs, so Theodoros is willing to try his luck in the conquest of the strategic island. The Italians disappointingly fail to join, but surely Athens can handle a few Muslims?

https://i.imgur.com/H2DS0iZ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/4FBxPx8.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/RklSsan.jpg?1

As the siege progresses and Theodoros awaits news at home, he is struck by another melancholy mood. This time, however, he decides to channel his depression in the form of dark poetry, which accidentally gets out and becomes quite popular (or at least notorious) in Athens, that great cradle of culture. Theodoros decides to embrace his new reputation, glad to finally express himself in some way.

https://i.imgur.com/1iM9RLx.jpg?1

In a worrying reenactment of Pantherios' last years, Theodoros discovers that Theokriste has been cheating on him with the blind Count Konstantios of Cephalonia, and even has the guts to admit it! Apparently he's quite charming for a man with no eyes. However, Theodoros remembers his father's scandals well, and doesn't want one of his own, so he decides to bottle up his wrath and focus it directly on the traitorous Count rather than rage about it in public.

https://i.imgur.com/2sf4eor.jpg?1

Theodoros is only slightly comforted by the fact that Sisinnios himself has been successfully assassinated with the help of a conspicuous amount of bribes, passing his title to a young girl, the next person on the very honorable and respectable Strategos' hit-list. However, even that small joy is soon lost as Theokriste's bastard boy is born. She wants to name him Pantherios, clearly as an obscene jab at Theodorios' late grandfather, but he decides on Perseus – a nice and heroic name, though with a hidden meaning to those in the know.

The Crusade for Crete has come to a critical point – Athens controls one half of the island, but in order to occupy the other, she'll need to attack superior numbers in mountainous terrain. That doesn't sound like an especially good idea, so Theodoros instead opts to use tremendous amounts of money on a mercenary company from the steppes and ship them onto the island as reinforcements. Though their services fetch a high price, Theodoros only needs to hire them for a short time in order to win that single battle – the first one Athens has fought in ages – and force an unconditional surrender on the enemy.

https://i.imgur.com/sreC8Do.jpg?1

Crete is split between Antonios and his younger brother Niketas, the latter also getting married to the Basileus' blind daughter Anastasia to secure closer relations with their liege. As the elder son, Antonios receives the richer half Gortyn, while Niketas gets Kaneia. The Orthodox and Greek people in Crete have finally been saved, hopefully bolstering Athens' military and diplomatic influence in the Empire and the Mediterranean.

https://i.imgur.com/gGOALYx.jpg?1

The Skleroi lords' private life remains tumultuous as ever, of course. After a physical altercation with Count Konstantios, Theodoros finally decides to just poison his dinner and be done with it. He gets away without any real suspicion (or at least proof) directed his way, watching grimly as power passes to the adulterer's young son. Though satisfied with this ultimately meaningless revenge, Theodoros half excepts to find the boy in his wife's bed one day.

https://i.imgur.com/h4kHoQG.jpg?1

Theokriste has another questionable child, Apollonia, but Theodoros has no time for his wife's litter of bastards. After two more baby-killings, all of Sisinnios' trueborn children are finally dead and Demetrias passes to him. The entire Theme is now solidly under his control, and will hopefully stay that way for generations to come. Even Theodoros himself considers this a remarkable stain on his honor, but... it was for the best.

https://i.imgur.com/J1KdC6s.jpg?1

Hildegard's questionable daughter Eudocia reaches majority. Though she displays some perverted interest in the fairer sex, she is quite fair and well-learned in her own right, but also ambitious and openly hostile, thus earning herself a marriage to King Herman of distant Great Moravia. Out of sight, out of mind. Theodoros' own daughter Theokriste II is soon married to the wretched Konstantios' unsuspecting son, who will hopefully have better relations with Athens than his father did – though not too close, obviously.

Theodoros has turned 50 and decided to leave his murderous ways in the past, embarking on a more mercantile path similar to his father's. Antonios is glad to see his dear father and liege pursuing more... wholesome activities, for once, and suggests a trade expedition to foreign lands.

https://i.imgur.com/A5rkmZi.jpg?1

Theodoros, seeking a new route in life, is really taken in by the idea of such an adventure, not hesitating in the slightest to buy a brand new ship and invite the local bishops along for the ride before even stopping to ask where they're actually going. Through some very peculiar navigational choices, they somehow end up in Obotritia in Northern Germany. Though the Great Chief Mscijow is but a pagan tribesman, Theodoros does his best to shower him in gifts and flatter him to ensure success for this expedition of his, successfully defusing many awkward situations and eventually securing a very unusual but profitable trade route from the Aegean to the Baltic Sea, earning himself great wealth and respect. He makes sure to give his surprisingly competent son his rightful cut, too.

https://i.imgur.com/3r03nAV.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/yIwQ0WN.jpg?1

Theodoros, clearly getting quite soft, decides to further celebrate this exhilarating success by holding a great feast in his palace. He spends lavishly on food and skilled fire-eaters, earning the favor of all his attending vassals and growing closer with many of them. The Strategos' great party attracts attention and spreads excited rumors around the city, quickly becoming the greatest occasion of the year. Lord and peasant alike seem to be charmed by his mastery of ceremonies.

https://i.imgur.com/qrqkBe8.jpg?1

The indecisive Basileus removes his prior ban on the Jewry, allowing them back into the realm. Theodoros promptly invites them to Athens and makes many profitable contracts, secretly hoping to benefit if or when they're once again banished, and spends the money on more improvements to his castle estates.

https://i.imgur.com/eGIvcEE.jpg?1

There is peace in Athens for the next few years – political and otherwise – until a smallpox epidemic suddenly sweeps through the city, infecting many courtiers and even the Strategos himself. The elderly lord's body can't fight off the cruel sickness, and he ultimately succumbs on the 12th of April 890, his wife following soon after. An increasingly cruel and cynical man, he's remembered for the way he ultimately softened and cheered up in his last years.

https://i.imgur.com/izacUHZ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/IoM6wys.jpg?1

Long live Antonios 'the Whisperer' Skleros, Strategos of Athens, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias and Gortyn!

https://i.imgur.com/EED3ALG.jpg?1
Unfaithful wives seem to be becoming a worrying theme, yet we ourselves have yet to sire any bastards.

It felt mildly gamey exterminating Sisinnios' family for the sake of a single county, but ultimately I think it was acceptable from an in-character POV. This is ultimately a very mild fashion of blobbing, and it really isn't that much of a problem at this point.

Also, since imgur refused to work for a few days and I got a little... overzealous, I have a backlog of four or so chapters to upload. Any constructive criticism can't be put to use until after those.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #3: The Ragged Regent

The sad-faced Antonios has become quite skilled at economy and intrigue, though his talents in other fields may be somewhat lacking. He is an intricate plotter, but much less ambitious than his father and more focused on petty greed and pride than any loftier goal, hoping to serve in the Basileus' court as Imperial Mystikos. His greed is luckily tempered by his restrained nature and outwardly valiant demeanor. Antonios and his wife Irmengarde don't really get along, but so far they're at least doing better than the last few Strategoi.

https://i.imgur.com/EED3ALG.jpg?1

Antonios has three children: Nikoletta, Adrianos and Melissa. His heir Adrianos and Melissa are twins, the boy being cursed with a hunched back to make up for the girl's divine beauty, already visible as a toddler, or so people like to say. Still, they're both very young, and only time will tell what manner of lord little Adrianos shall become.

In a clear ploy to erode Athenian power, the Basileus grants the Theme of Crete to Niketas, freeing him from vassalage under Athens. Antonios still controls his half of the island, but will definitely have to keep a close eye on his envious brother.

https://i.imgur.com/zl1DFRA.jpg?1

It doesn't take long for Antonios' agents to dig up quite convincing proof of this famously hedonistic brother indulging in sinful sodomy at his most drunken parties, preferably with foodstuffs involved in the act. Ever the ”dutiful vassal”, Antonios promptly informs the Basileus of his latest Strategos' shameful habits, greatly dishonoring him and ruining his standing in the realm, but apparently not enough to strip him of his titles.

https://i.imgur.com/cieuk1A.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/zgPrxuI.jpg?1

In an unexpected act of godly retribution, the smallpox that killed Theodoros returns to the court, infecting Antonios, Irmengarde and many others. Antonios dies after weeks of suffering, making 3-year old Adrianos the new ruler. All others promptly recover in what is widely considered a cruel miracle.

https://i.imgur.com/xdQj1R7.jpg?1

There really isn't much to say about such a young child, and it will take time until he's fit to rule, so Chancellor Zenon will act as his regent and guardian until then.

https://i.imgur.com/fikjPoN.jpg?1

Zenon is a dutiful and very popular diplomat, surely more than capable of keeping the realm together. Having to alternate between ruling, child-rearing and foreign diplomacy, he has suddenly become the busiest man in Greece, but surely he can handle it?

https://i.imgur.com/vOXsLFm.jpg?1

With great trouble, the pox-weakened Irmengarde gives birth to little Eugenios, Adrianos' little brother and current heir. Let us hope that never becomes relevant.

Not much happens in the next few years. Zenon walks in on the Court Bishop trying to teach Adrianos about his heretic Iconoclast faith, promptly throwing the man in jail. Only after a lengthy interrogation and very convincing promises of repentance is he released, stripped of his office. With surprisingly prudent timing, an Iconoclast rebellion breaks out in Anatolia but is soon extinguished.

https://i.imgur.com/tpZuR1m.jpg?1

As competent as Zenon is, he can't quite seem to control Adrianos' arbitrary nature and short attention span, neither of which are particularly promising traits for a future Strategos to have. He knows when to be strict, though, teaching the boy to behave himself as a proper lord should.

https://i.imgur.com/1q6pijT.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/pXELC7u.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/yInEwMY.jpg?1

Years pass. Adrianos gains and maintains a strong loyalty to his Christian faith, vowing to live and die for his God. His bastard half-uncle Perseus – most are unaware of his background - is wed to the Princess of Asturias, made the Steward of Athens due to his surprising ingenuity in financial matters, and granted guardianship of Eugenios. All of a sudden he finally feels accepted at court, respected even. Zenon proves to be a very devout foster parent, managing to pass his hard-working, honest and patient nature onto Adrianos. He really is shaping up to be a better man than his predecessors.

Yet another Court Bishop (a rumored sodomite at that!) tries to convert Adrianos to the foul heresy, but this time the 12-year old Strategos doesn't even need Zenon to interfere, ordering the arrest all on his own. He has even less tolerance for heretics, though, and in a childish rage decides to leave him rotting in the dungeon; however, when an Imperial envoy surprisingly shows up to him to the true faith and recommend his release, Adrianos grudgingly lets him out in exchange for a formal fine.

Over the last few decades, the independent Emirates of the East have been conquered one by one by the mighty Abbasid Caliphate. However, the Shiite branch of the Muslim faith has recently enjoyed a new rise and is growing rapidly. This will inevitably lead to internal conflict in many Sunni realms and surely weaken them, helping secure the Empire's eastern border. This has little direct impact on the Skleroi, though.

https://i.imgur.com/m7RFdvb.jpg?1

Adrianos has a brief and frightening experience with the deadly disease of consumption, but recovers quickly to everyone's great relief. However, soon after the realm is struck by a new shock: the Basileus has sent an ultimatum demanding the secession of Gortyn in Crete, probably conspiring with Strategos Niketas to grant him control of the entire island. As painful as it feels to hand over his father's old castles, Adrianos agrees with Zenon that Athens would not win the war a refusal would spark. He personally sails to Constantinople to ceremoniously but reluctantly complete the transfer of these holdings to their ”rightful” liege. Crete, which his grandfather was so proud to have conquered, has been completely lost as far as Athens is concern. Adrianos gains some spiteful joy from hearing that the County was granted to a completely different minor noble rather than his uncle.

https://i.imgur.com/9jT5pmv.jpg?1

Having lost a full quarter of his land, Adrianos is advised to improve his remaining holdings instead. Overseen by Perseus, the construction of an all new town is begun near Athens, which is rapidly growing into one of the richest cities in the world. Under his skilled administration, the foundations of Soula are finished in less than a year.

In 903, after 14 years of regency, Zenon is finally allowed a brief moment of rest as Adrianos comes of age. He has become a magnificent young man, his slight hunchback more than compensated for by his virtuous nature and sheer charisma. He is much more honorable and far less ruthless than most of the earlier Skleroi. Despite being betrayed by the Basileus, he wishes to one day serve in his council, but for now he wants to focus on ruling his own realm and studying religion.

https://i.imgur.com/8Rw3Okp.jpg?1

After arranging a betrothal with the young Countess Iouliana of neighboring Thessalia, he embarks on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, an ancient duty his cynical predecessors have grossly neglected. Jerusalem is presently held by the Abbasids, but luckily they are rather tolerant towards foreign pilgrims. Zenon is once again called upon to be his regent for a short while.

https://i.imgur.com/3X8PnPq.jpg?1

Adrianos becomes ever more pious as he learns practical lessons about charity and spends most of his leisure time studying the scriptures. The Holy City itself is rather uneventful, but he still feels very enriched by the experience, and after a few months he returns home with a faith stronger than ever. He has become a true beacon of Christianity in Athens.

https://i.imgur.com/wKxCgAX.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/o5b2fML.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/JCCv6vT.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/1VsaoJ0.jpg?1

Tragically, Zenon is found dead soon after Adrianos' return, having swallowed poison before going to bed for the last time. Nobody had any idea he was so depressed, as the poor regent always maintained a cheerful and lovely facade. Adrianos cannot help but feel guilty, having bothered and overworked him for 14 long years, but there is nothing he can do but pray for his soul. Perhaps he felt his work was finally done and he could rest in peace.
Sorry for the scarcity of pictures here; long periods of inactivity strangely make it even harder for me to choose what to screenshot, and the regency wasn't especially eventful anyway.
I'm also sorry for not mentioning much about the outside world's happenings. I'll try to pay more attention in the future, and probably make a proper ”State of the World” post in a while.

[Flickerdart]

Oof, Byzantium. Do they still have the thing where the Emperor can revoke duchies for free, or was that rolled into the Theme system?

Also, you haven't blinded or castrated anybody yet, what's up with that?

[SilverLeaf167]

They use the Viceroyalty system, where the Emperor is able to grant temporary duchies that always pass back to him instead of the recipient's heir, but I don't think he can revoke them at will. However, I think the game might give the player some special treatment, seeing as I seem to be inheriting my duchies just fine, even if the death screen claims otherwise.

And oh, I wish I could, but I haven't really had any prisoners, it hasn't been very in-character for anyone and it gives you a pretty nasty hit to tyranny and piety. I'll definitely do it when a proper occasion arrives, though. :smalltongue:

[Flickerdart]

They use the Viceroyalty system, where the Emperor is able to grant temporary duchies that always pass back to him instead of the recipient's heir, but I don't think he can revoke them at will. However, I think the game might give the player some special treatment, seeing as I seem to be inheriting my duchies just fine, even if the death screen claims otherwise.
Everyone has access to viceroyalties (though IIRC there's a limit on how many you can have) but the Basileus also used to have special imperial authority to revoke Duchies without taking a Tyranny hit.


And oh, I wish I could, but I haven't really had any prisoners, it hasn't been very in-character for anyone and it gives you a pretty nasty hit to tyranny and piety. I'll definitely do it when a proper occasion arrives, though. :smalltongue:
Doesn't Intrigue focus have events where you can kidnap someone you're spying on? Or is that just the Game of Thrones mod? At any rate, castrating your wife's lovers seems like the right move.

[SilverLeaf167]

Everyone has access to viceroyalties (though IIRC there's a limit on how many you can have) but the Basileus also used to have special imperial authority to revoke Duchies without taking a Tyranny hit.
No idea, haven't played a Byzantine vassal before, but I definitely don't think he's revoked any duchies in this game.


Doesn't Intrigue focus have events where you can kidnap someone you're spying on? Or is that just the Game of Thrones mod? At any rate, castrating your wife's lovers seems like the right move.
Okay, fine, it would've been in-character, but I didn't get that particular event this time around. If I had, castration would definitely have been... on the table. :smallamused:

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #4: The Prudent Pilgrim

The regent Zenon's suicide is a tragic tale of caution, but he must be replaced. A rather unlikely new Chancellor is found in Guy Karling, Strategitissa Hildegard's abandoned bastard who's been staying in Athens all this time, always ignored but never quite ousted. Adrianos sees no reason to hold a grudge for his great grandfather Pantherios' unlucky marriage, even allowing Guy to marry his aunt Theognosia and be formally acknowledged by the dynasty after living so close to them for 28 painful years.

https://i.imgur.com/Ht52XZu.jpg?1

Eager to increase his power but unwilling to resort to murder or conquest, Adrianos focuses on more strategic betrothals to neighboring ladies or lords without proper heirs. While he's at it, though, the countryside of Athens is suddenly assaulted by a ragtag band of nomadic mercenary adventurers the levies are quickly raised and the Imperial army arrives to help, easily ousting these barbarians. They manage to cause plenty of damage to the surrounding towns, torching multiple buildings and stealing a golden icon from a church, but most of the loot is recovered as they're wiped out to the last man.

https://i.imgur.com/8FifIVi.jpg?1

After but 3 years as Steward, Guy Karling dies of pneumonia, but at least he dies a happy man and leaves a beautiful baby daughter.

The religious fervor of Adrianos' teenage years is already starting to subside, and he's slowly starting to question his faith. However, even when he doubts himself and tries to think about things ”logically”, he is simply positive in his conviction, managing to convince himself to abandon such horrible ideations.

https://i.imgur.com/xKHxzdn.jpg?1

Adrianos fulfills his marriage promise to Countess Iouliana of Thessalia, ensuring that his heir will also inherit her lands. She is a somewhat hot-tempered but overall lovely young lady, almost as virtuous and skilled at diplomacy as her new husband.

https://i.imgur.com/Xhj9R1u.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/2Mq9qZH.jpg?1

His brother Eugenios' fiancé comes of age too: Strategitissa Barbara of Anatolia, heiress to the County of Chalkidike near Athens. In a couple generations, all her titles will have passed to the Skleros family, too.

https://i.imgur.com/DkOg8SG.jpg?1

21-year old Adrianos decides that while the Orthodox faith still has an important place in his heart and life, as Strategos he should devote more of his time to other matters as well. He decides to try and become the best ruler possible, hoping to ensure Athens' earthly success in addition to his own heavenly favor.

https://i.imgur.com/57aathB.jpg?1

The 72-year old Basileus Basileios finally falls to consumption, having outreigned three generations of Skleroi. The Empire is inherited by his much less majestic son Anthimos, a fat and sadistic youth with a lowborn gargoyle for a wife. He is a petty tyrant with a taste for executions and very unpopular with the Strategoi, so more uprisings are to be expected. Adrianos definitely isn't among his greatest admirers.

https://i.imgur.com/MtKxAVA.jpg?1

Another civil war does indeed break out in the Empire, protesting over pretty much the same thing as last time. However, with no crusade to distract him, the venerable Basileus will probably be more than capable of catching and defeating their isolated regiments, and the rebels have little troops available to begin with.

https://i.imgur.com/ZmCClMN.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/3Vtcsvd.jpg?1

The Basileus grants Adrianos his much-awaited position as Chancellor, the last one presumably dead in the war. He is somewhat worried about personally serving such an unpleasant liege, but accepts anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/72BB9fq.jpg?1

The Strategos originally plans to stay out of this civil war as well, but when a large army of rebels lays siege to his dear wife's castle in Thessalonia, he is forced to intervene. He gathers his troops and arrives just in time to help a four times larger Imperial army finish off the stragglers. It's a matter of principle, damn it! At least Iouliana is impressed. Adrianos' troops return home, yet the war manages to drag on in the background for four more years.

https://i.imgur.com/ajv4Oaz.jpg?1

Iouliana gives birth to a sickly baby girl, christened Romylia. Adrianos had hoped for a son, as callous as it may sound, but is sure to love his daughter nonetheless. A few years later he gets what he wanted in the form of Kallinikos, the future Strategos of Athens.

https://i.imgur.com/kWvlaan.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/cMSJ0gB.jpg?1

The Venetian Republic constructs a trading post in Hellas, the first one in Greek lands. When the center grows a bit more, it's sure to aid the local economy. Adrianos funds the construction of a new urban center to capitalize on this, though it had been in the works for a long time already, and the town of Kastrinitsi is founded a year later.

https://i.imgur.com/6tSBkTP.jpg?1

Surrounded by hateful faces, Basileus Anthimos seems to see Adrianos as a friend of some sort, oblivious to the utter loathing he shares with most other Strategoi. Adrianos is approached for a friendly game of tzykanion in Constantinople. Still maintaining a facade of loyalty, and always eager for a chance to subtly humiliate the fat slob, he accepts. He is greatly shocked and embarrassed to lose the match, but his teammates claim they did it on purpose in order not to provoke the cruel tyrant.

https://i.imgur.com/RjuOcm5.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/qrRBaQD.jpg?1

More raiders harass Demetrias but are rebuked as always. How these unsettled nomads managed to transport over 2000 horsemen to Greece by sea is a great mystery.

https://i.imgur.com/Nt9ZhRs.jpg?1

In the aftermath of this battle, Adrianos faces a very unpleasant situation. He is asked to judge a peasant accused of butchering his own family. However, based on the man's testimony and recent events, it is abundantly clear that the rampaging horde is to blame. Adrianos releases him and heads home himself, content with his sublime handling of such a bloody case.

https://i.imgur.com/Za8lCDE.jpg?1


https://i.imgur.com/EnVCIbn.jpg?1

His uncle Niketas ”the Fat” has softened in recent years, not only around his belly but also his attitude. Rather than drooling over Athens, he's content with Crete and willing to mend his bonds with the main branch of the family. Unknowingly following the Basileus' example, he challenges Adrianos to a match of tzykanion, which he is legitimately happy to accept. With no need to fake defeat, Adrianos' team is victorious, but Niketas takes it well and grows ever closer with Adrianos. Niketas passes away some years later, passing the Theme to his son Makarios.

https://i.imgur.com/8reI2gY.jpg?1

Yet another rebellion to reduce the Basileus' influence over his vassals is initiated, but no matter how much Adrianos dislikes the man, he isn't willing to raise his hand in open rebellion and risk his mens' lives for such a cause. The uprising is crushed in record time. In the aftermath, Adrianos is almost relieved to hear that Anthimos has found a ”better” Chancellor and chosen to dismiss him, meaning that he doesn't have to tolerate his disgusting liege any longer.

https://i.imgur.com/OpHf0Sp.jpg?1

In the following years, Adrianos's youthful idealism is starting to fade. He's now in his 30's and putting more and more effort into earthly finance, organizing trade and saving up money for a new personal castle in Athens. Under his uncle Perseus' surveillance, the castle of Daphni is finished in 1921.

Over a decade of noneventful peace follows. Romylia and Kallinikos have grown up well in their father's care, shaping up to be quite a bit like him and receiving pleasant betrothals, followed by their younger siblings Gregoria, Valeria, Anastasia, Antonios and Theophanes, the three youngest of which have inherited their father's hunched back. Kallinikos is clearly displaying the famous social talent of his father, soon also adopting his ideals of chivalry, justice, charity and faith.

https://i.imgur.com/lWcIvQq.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/6T46w0o.jpg?1

Rebels rise against the Empire yet again and are promptly crushed, their forces smaller each time they try. Raiders land in the countryside, only to be driven back to the sea. Adrianos and Iouliana's married life remains just about perfect and keeps the Strategos fresh, willing to continue his work on the local economy. Only at 44 years of age does the Skleros family sickness finally befall him.

https://i.imgur.com/rUloB65.jpg?1

Speaking of sickness, many epidemics sweep across the Empire, killing few of import other than Eugenios, passing the County of Chalkidike to Adrianos' nephew Eustratios, who also stands to inherit his mother's holdings as soon as she dies. More tragedy follows as Iouliana starts hearing and speaking in strange voices and suffers from mysterious shaking fits, Valeria dies of pneumonia and Perseus sleeps away at the age of 54, leaving a widow and four children from four different mothers.

By his 50th year, Adrianos' hair is graying, and growing corruption in the pursuit of wealth has made him abandon much of his famous kindness in exchange for greed and deceit.

https://i.imgur.com/y0SbcgI.jpg?1

His Steward, an influential mayor, suggests that Adrianos follow his grandfather's footsteps and go on a grand expedition to secure a foreign trade route for Athens. He agrees, for the sake of adventure but mostly just gold.

https://i.imgur.com/2lKXViR.jpg?1

However, unlike Theodoros, Adrianos is willing to take some risks to further maximize his profits. Rather than purchase a ship, he displays some rather un-lordlike behavior by hiring a band of thieves to... covertly procure one for him.

https://i.imgur.com/4aX0XFm.jpg?1

The fare his local bishops pay for passage is pretty much enough to cover what little he paid those bandits.

https://i.imgur.com/QDKviQV.jpg?1

However, those incompetent scoundrels fail in their mission, getting arrested and revealing Adrianos' involvement. Most dismiss these claims as scurrilous lies, but rumors still begin to circulate, completely dooming the expedition. Steward Kaisarios is not amused.

https://i.imgur.com/QdaFz1N.jpg?1

Perhaps worsened along by this embarrassing failure, Adrianos is soon afflicted with whatever is plaguing his wife: reoccurring fits of paranoid, nonsensical rage, screaming at everyone around him and accusing them of filthy, almost absurdly disgusting heresy. In hindsight, some see his earlier eccentricities as an ignored warning sign. He mostly does it in private, but such madness still has an effect on his governance of the realm, though his loyal (and rather weak) vassals are ready to turn a blind eye to the illness of their long-time liege. At least he and Iouliana now have another common hobby.

https://i.imgur.com/KDrzQEb.jpg?1

It also leads to some rather... [i]interesting works of poetry, which his courtiers have been secretly marketing as intentional works of metaphorical philosophy. The greatest scholars in Greece have come together to analyze and appreciate his ingenuity with words. However, upon finding out, Adrianos has the guilty courtiers thrown out and immediately stops writing, embarrassed of his crazed creations.

https://i.imgur.com/PTJj0VG.jpg?1

This combination of madness, stress and social pressure is what eventually causes Adrianos to giddily leap out his bedroom window in late 939. Though his last few years were less than dignified, he is still remembered for his long, enlightened and peaceful reign.

https://i.imgur.com/AtMFEfW.jpg?1

Long live Kallinikos Skleros, Strategos of Athens, Count of Atheniai, Hellas and Demetrias, heir to Thessalia!

https://i.imgur.com/coXAFac.jpg?1
Okay, that's the last ready chapter, I'll try my best to slow down now (as is going to happen eventually anyway). I've been wondering, what kind of issues would you like to have the ability to vote on? Just anything major enough? Has there been anything so far, for instance, that you would've appreciated the ability to affect?

I suppose we should try for some foreign conquests soon enough. Speaking of which, State of the World coming right up!

[SilverLeaf167]

SPECIAL #1: State of the World (939)

The Theme of Athens, formerly divided in three, has been united under the Strategoi's direct control. The ruling Skleros family, aided by local landowners, has poured a ton of wealth and resources into expanding and improving the local infrastructure, growing themselves a disproportionately large military and economical base. The unfair loss of Crete was an unpleasant setback, but Athens has more than recovered, and at least Crete is still under Skleros control. Their influence is bound to expand farther north as soon as the current Countess dies and Strategos Kallinikos inherits the County of Thessalia.

https://i.imgur.com/QxfSaJC.jpg?1

Even as the outside world is in turmoil, the East Roman Empire remains stable, no thanks to its disastrous Basileus. It hasn't really expanded that much since the Crusade for Sicily, though the border lords occasionally attempt conquests of their own. The Empire's former allies in the Kingdom of Bulgaria have expanded in the Balkans, all power in the realm centralized to the Balgarsko dynasty, but Croatia and Rashka still remain steadfast. Italy has remained very stable, still under Karling control even as the dynasty's other realms falter.

https://i.imgur.com/9XWUIKY.jpg?1

Western Europe is a mess. While the Muslims of Iberia remain strong, the Christian realms have been divided by rebellion and outside conquest. The mighty West Francia has been cleft in two: Burgundy remains under Karling control, but is in shambles thanks to a variety of militant claimants, while the Kingdom of France is ruled by the house von Vlaanderen.

https://i.imgur.com/VCNEiiw.jpg?1

The British Isles remain a mess of feuding states, especially in Ireland, which is ruled by a cavalcade of petty chiefs. Norse conquerors hold sway in Northumbria, Jorvik and the Scottish Highlands, but the Duchy of Kent is the most powerful military force in the entire region.

https://i.imgur.com/SPkpq4d.jpg?1

Germania remains in Karling hands, though riddled with periodical rebellion. Lotharingia remains the most powerful of the three greats for the moment. Frisia is a real oddity, ruled by a Fraticelli King-Bishop whose heresy is slowly gaining a foothold in the area. Even odder was the period of time when the Duke of Swabia controlled Marrakech, but that has tragically long since passed.

https://i.imgur.com/9KEeaNj.jpg?1

The rest of Central Europe, on the other hand, has been completely fragmented ever since the vast Kingdom of Pomerania's devastating defeat against the Magyar nomads, who maintain a steady power base in the Ukraine and parts of Hungary. Petty Slavic states are (lazily) vying for dominance, and when it comes to tribal wars, the winner is really anyone's guess. Great Moravia remains the only Christian nation of note in the region.

https://i.imgur.com/16HLa2q.jpg?1

Lithuania is a strong, solid state, but Eastern Europe is dominated by the Oskyldr dynasty in Könugardr and Turov whose Germanic paganism has been steadily replacing the locals' Slavic beliefs. The Finnic peoples and their foreign faith have been driven into the petty realms farther east, Merya remaining their only real representative.

https://i.imgur.com/wtULUyV.jpg?1

Thanks in part to the difficulties of barbaric succession laws (or lack thereof), Northern Europe is approximately split between Denmark, Norway and Sweden, the latter of which has long been struggling with large uprisings for autonomy or independence. All three have maintained their Germanic faith, while the Finns still have their own Suomenusko.

https://i.imgur.com/jBMnnxQ.jpg?1

The vast steppes are mostly under the hegemony of the Khazar Khaganate, though some other tribes still hold onto their pathetic independence. Some of the Khazars decided to settle down in the Caucasus Mountains and found the confusingly named Empire of Albania, but the vast majority still hold onto their traditional ways.

https://i.imgur.com/MHXEpvU.jpg?1

Northern Africa and the Middle East are split between the declining Aghlabids and the mighty Abbasids, though petty Emirates remain in Armenia and Arabia. Further south, the region is contested between Alodia – crippled by internal uprisings – and the various Ethiopian lords, struggling to form an united state capable of standing up to invaders.

https://i.imgur.com/SMnqxiO.jpg?1

Last and sort of least, Persia remains under the relative control of, well, Persia, while the formerly very centralized Empires of India have been split into smaller feuding Kingdoms.

https://i.imgur.com/UgrZE8F.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ShZLWrq.jpg?1

In terms of religion, the one true Orthodox faith is mostly restricted to the East Roman Empire and Bulgaria, but Catholic Christianity dominates Southern, Central and Western Europe. The Norse conquerors have carried their Germanic faith into parts of England and most of the Rus, ousting the Suomenusko and Slavic pagans there. Romuva holds steadfast in Lithuania, but the Tengri faith is only maintained by the Magyars, as the Khazars have adopted and very successfully spread their own bastardization of the ancient Jewish faith all across the steppes. Even with the predicted rise of the Shia, the Muslims of the world are still almost exclusively Sunni.

https://i.imgur.com/iplGEp0.jpg?1
I wonder if these are even legible... if not, tell me and I'll do something about it!
As a side note, I really love that the Khazars have managed to spread Judaism all across Central Asia and Siberia.

[Cristo Meyers]

Couple of decades in and already there's been an unmitigated child-slaughter just to claim a County.

Just another day in CK2.

Interesting so far, very interesting. My only game as a vassal (Toulouse) had the weird twist where Aquitaine ended up controlled by Francia, then Burgundy, then Francia again, then got dissolved into a mess of independent duchies that I conquered one-by-one. So this is a side of the game I didn't see much of.

[Flickerdart]

Wow...Bulgaria survived the Magyar murderhordes? That's new. That's really new.

Also, it's weird that Askold managed to conquer Novgorod. I'm guessing it's because the Magyars never established themselves properly as Hungary, because otherwise Kiev would get beat down and Rurik would be the only Norseman free to pummel the Slavs down.

[SilverLeaf167]

Couple of decades in and already there's been an unmitigated child-slaughter just to claim a County.

Just another day in CK2.

Interesting so far, very interesting. My only game as a vassal (Toulouse) had the weird twist where Aquitaine ended up controlled by Francia, then Burgundy, then Francia again, then got dissolved into a mess of independent duchies that I conquered one-by-one. So this is a side of the game I didn't see much of.
The (originally) Karling realms feel really prone to crazy splintering for some reason (as seen in my game too), second only to gavelkind tribes. Anybody know why?

Wow...Bulgaria survived the Magyar murderhordes? That's new. That's really new.

Also, it's weird that Askold managed to conquer Novgorod. I'm guessing it's because the Magyars never established themselves properly as Hungary, because otherwise Kiev would get beat down and Rurik would be the only Norseman free to pummel the Slavs down.
Agreed, the Magyars have been kinda weird. They're probably the strongest tribe in Europe, yet they mostly just sit there.
Also, unless the eventual crusades are a huge success, Europe is going to have a lot of weird pagan blobs. None of them are too close to reforming their faiths, though.

[Cristo Meyers]

The (originally) Karling realms feel really prone to crazy splintering for some reason (as seen in my game too), second only to gavelkind tribes. Anybody know why?

No idea. I think (this was a while ago) that the splintering was really only in Aquitaine in mine. The Francias and Italy were pretty solid until I came along and formed France.

Outside of the Succession Game I haven't played CK2 recently. My main PC is in storage while we try to sell the house...:smallfrown:

[IthilanorStPete]

Great LP so far! I like your style, it strikes a nice balance between historybook and narrative. If you want to do a bit more on the narrative side, go ahead - CK2 is the most naturally suited of any of the Paradox games to in-character writing - but it can definitely be a tricky thing to do.

Game mechanic comments:

Revoking duchies: the Basileus can revoke themes with no tyranny penalty at any time, but not hereditary duchies. (I'm not sure if this is true for all viceroyalties or just the ERE's special Imperial Administration law.) If you control enough provinces to create/usurp a viceregal title without controlling the title itself, you should be able to do so, and it'll become a feudal, hereditary title. For instance, if you had created d_cyprus after the holy war, that title would have been hereditary. Also, if the Basileus had granted the Theme of Athens to the Count of Demetrias instead of Theodoros, Theodoros would have been able to usurp d_athens as the Count of Athens and Hellas, turning it into a feudal title.
There are a couple of reasons why the Karlings tend to fracture so messily. First, they all have claims on each other's titles, so they keep fighting against themselves. Second, they start out with low CA and stay that way due to the aforementioned constant wars, leading to weaker, more splintered realms. Third, there's a couple of mega-dukes under most of the Karlings, IIRC, so they're a constant cause of major drawn-out civil wars. (Compare to the 867 ERE, where it takes a seriously large faction to seriously threaten the Basileus)
Bulgaria surviving the Magyars to this extent isn't that unusual. The AI doesn't know to take advantage of using occupation to gain territory outside of the de jure target of an invasion, so the Magyars usually end up only taking Bulgaria's portion of de jure Hungary, then not taking advantage of their stacks of event troops.
Intrigue focus definitely has events for kidnapping your target in vanilla, though I don't know if that gives you tyranny-free castration/blinding.

[OrcusMcP]

Yay! I come back from vacation and it's live! Excited to see where this goes, looking good so far!

If you're looking for general advice on writing a CK2 story, remember that CK2 is much more about the people than it is about the nation, so focus more on the rulers and the people they are interacting with, but you seem to be doing that.

A more specific recommendation for this, since you're playing a vassal, it can be handy for us readers to get an idea of the character of your emperor and some of the other major players in the empire.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #5: The Worrisome Wars

The 27-year old Kallinikos is a charismatic, pious, just and beloved ruler, just like his father in his younger days, but occasionally displays strange bouts of paranoia and distrust, not unlike his father in his older days. This nervousness has further encouraged him to leave the palace and go hunting in the wilderness for days at a time, a habit which helps him keep his wits.

https://i.imgur.com/8cT8uCk.jpg?1

His Great Moravian wife and Spymistress Kristyna is an exceptionally bright lady, often called a genius, who often feels that life in the Athenian court is restricting her talents far too much. This and her somewhat petty nature have contributed to a few brief affairs in the past, which Kallinikos carries a deep grudge for. Somewhat interestingly, she is the granddaughter of Kallinikos' great grandaunt Eudocia, Strategos Theodoros' sister. On the other hand, in a sense it might be relieving to know that this is the closest thing there's been to incest in the recent Skleros lineage.

https://i.imgur.com/lGGw8yj.jpg?1

Out of Kallinikos' two toddlers Philippa and Kaisarios, many believe Kaisarios to have inherited her mother's great mental talent, learning to move and walk at an unusually young age and even displaying signs of beginning to talk soon enough. With proper guidance, he will surely be a great heir for Athens.

https://i.imgur.com/jsQOX2w.jpg?1

Kallinikos' bravery and devotion to justice often show themselves in his daily life, making him leap to action in defense of his people, or just about anyone, really. This might very well get him hurt one day, but for now it's definitely made him very famous and respected in the realm.

https://i.imgur.com/ucanJXF.jpg?1

As such a man of honor, he isn't especially pleased to hear that Count Isidoros of Brendesion – the grandson and successor of the Isidoros who had an affair with Pantherios' wife Hildegard – has been making great and ”romantic” plans for his seduction of Kristyna, though these plots have yet to bear fruit. He can't do anything directly, other than strongly denounce him, but will be sure to look at him very differently from now on.

https://i.imgur.com/4QZz8c2.jpg?1

Probably trying to appease Kallinikos, Kristyna sends him a well-bred puppy to take hunting with him. Though Kallinikos recognizes her ulterior motives, he is quite taken in by the little doggy and really doesn't see any harm in keeping little Faithful.

https://i.imgur.com/BUNtzBi.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/lzO1AM0.jpg?1

Berengario, Kallinikos' close friend, cupbearer and Court Bishop has discovered the wonders of the Iconoclast heresy and tries to convince Kallinikos too. It doesn't go down very well, ending in his imprisonment and forced reconversion, Kallinikos unwilling to treat such a dear ally too badly. He is rightfully stripped of his office, of course, but allowed to remain in Athens. Kallinikos is somewhat worried, though, to see people so close to him turn their cloaks so quickly.

https://i.imgur.com/UwROMf8.jpg?1

Viking raiders arrive all the way from Jorvik, England, just to try and pillage Athens, attracted by her growing prestige. They are summarily annihilated, of course, but their conviction is almost impressive. While Athens itself holds out, the countryside takes considerable damage.

https://i.imgur.com/zOCxnY2.jpg?1

Kallinikos' mother finally follows his husband to the grave, little more than a raving madwoman in his last years. While this is of course a tragedy and all, it also means Kallinikos inherits Thessalia, earning himself a very fine piece of wealthy and fertile land in addition to over a thousand loyal soldiers. It is formally part of the Theme of Thessalonika, though, so the Crete situation may repeat itself if the Skleroi are not careful.

https://i.imgur.com/QcwOoG4.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/kxUfTeZ.jpg?1

Another plague of smallpox rides through the realm, infecting Basileus Anthimos and Kallinikos among others. While Kallinikos is relatively young and fit and recovers quickly, the elderly tyrant is harvested by the scythe of death, to the joy of many. However, his nephew and heir Bartholomaios just might be even worse: in addition to sharing many of his worst features, the man is a filthy Iconoclast, and even dares to style himself Badshah instead of Basileus, imitating the Persians to the east for whatever insane reason.

https://i.imgur.com/RwGOxcU.jpg?1

Soon after inheriting the throne, the ”Badshah” starts abusing his power by joining a petty trade war against the Republic of Amalfi for the sheer sake of profit. This brash conflict might actually be a good thing, though: while his predecessors fought or simply ignored it, Kallinikos has long been a silent but active member of the oft resurfacing movement to reduce Imperial authority in the realm, eventually rising to be its leader. At present, the great discontent against Bartholomaios has led to a great influx of members, swelling the rebels' ranks to levels never seen before; even the Ecumenical Patriarch himself has joined. Indeed, after the Emperor has ferried all 18 000 of his men to Italy – the rebels hoping to raise at least as many - Kallinikos sends the faction's demands to the Badshah: he must officially revoke many of his privileges over the Strategoi and greatly loosen his influence within his vassals' lands.

Of course, despite his precarious situation, the stubborn bastard refuses Kallinikos' gracious offer.

https://i.imgur.com/QLjLa50.jpg?1

Kallinikos serves as the supreme commander of the rebel armies, of which Athens' is the single largest. The troops in Greece mobilize to occupy the area while the Anatolian ones march to join them, prioritizing regrouping and survival over stopping to besiege Constantinople.

https://i.imgur.com/2clYe7G.jpg?1

With the gracious donations of his fellow conspirators, he also recruits an elite band of Swiss mercenaries to give him an edge in the arduous battles to come. The first such clash ensues as the Badshah's army braves the Strait of Otranto to perform an amphibious attack into mountainous territory, which predictably proves to be a rather poor strategy. As reinforcements arrive for Kallinikos' men, both sides take hideous casualties, but the rebels eventually end up on top, free to chase down the surviving loyalists and wipe out three quarters of the enemy's entire force.

https://i.imgur.com/joax2JS.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ackEsC5.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/75kx024.jpg?1

From there, the remaining enemies are free to dawdle in Italy for as long as they want while Kallinikos heads for the capital. That is to say, Kallinikos' commanders, taking orders from him, head for the capital. Kallinikos is safe in Athens, playing with his dog. Obviously.

https://i.imgur.com/h2ovtMj.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/90jiPTG.jpg?1

Athens' armies end up taking Constantinople by force, a formidable feat given the city's famously massive defenses. The rebels' losses are tremendous, of course, but his commanders are dismissive to say the least of the other Strategoi's soldiers being wasted. They then catch and destroy the Empire's last real army, cementing the rebellion's victory in August 944 – the end of what would later be known by romantics as the War of the Second Delian League.

https://i.imgur.com/6csImJs.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/aFJVPqA.jpg?1

The humiliated Badshah is forced to accept Kallinikos' prior terms of lowered crown authority. Athens now not only has to provide much fewer levies for its hated liege, but all the Strategoi are autonomous to the point of being able to wage justified wars against each other, which used to be impossible and forbidden under Imperial law; of course, this is likely to cause some shifting in the realm, but Athens stands to profit from said turmoil, remaining the greatest military might within the Empire.

Following the example of Constantinople, which has recently undertaken a project to found the Imperial Academy, a great institution of higher learning for the good of science and the realm, the very rich Mayor of Megara has laid the foundations of the Athenian School of Philosophy. This prestigious school would later be colloquially known as the ”Lyceum” or the ”Agora” by students and other citizens alike, referencing Athens' long history in such topics.

A few uneventful years follow... uneventful for Athens, that is. Due to the Delian League's interference, Amalfi had a chance to regroup and call its allies, while the Empire's troops were decimated, so the Republic actually has a fighting chance now. The great Khaganate of Khazaria has joined the party, too, trying to nip on the Empire's exposed borders. Both of these wars are unlikely to be of any great importance, not to the Empire and definitely not to Kallinikos.

That inaction ends in 945 as Kallinikos' brother and Chancellor Antonios approaches him with intriguing news: since Athens is the most prominent power in the region and Kallinikos already has a strong foothold in the Theme of Thessalonika, in addition to being its former Strategitissa's rightful heir, it is clear that the ducal capital belongs under his rule. Antonios has even found many others to back him up! While Kallinikos prides himself on his sense of justice, Antonios' words do indeed match his view on traditional rights and common sense, even if all the bureaucratic details don't really add up.

https://i.imgur.com/6SjE6WW.jpg?1

The current owner of the county isn't very cooperative, obviously, so war is declared and levies are raised!

https://i.imgur.com/2hmMojC.jpg?2

The opposing armies clash in Thessalia, where the Athenian side manages to completely crush the unprepared enemy while suffering very few losses of its own. The army moves on to take its sweet time besieging Thessalonika.

https://i.imgur.com/3bykgFP.jpg?1

While staying at the war camp and waiting for news of surrender, Kallinikos hears rumors of a magnificent, very unusual white stag wandering in the area. Bored out of his mind, he grabs onto these rumors in hope of something to do and immediately starts organizing a great hunt for the mystical beast.

https://i.imgur.com/b6dOZju.jpg?1

While Kallinikos is still at war, he receives whispered news that his wife is suddenly pregnant. Since he's been away from Athens for a while now, he's pretty much certain it can't be his. Old wounds are reopened and Kallinikos wonders whether he can even remain married to such an unfaithful woman. He hires the messenger in question to find out more about Kristyna's affair. The man fails to discover anything, so Kallinikos hires more spies, knowing that Kristyna would never admit anything without concrete proof.

https://i.imgur.com/c9Sqfst.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ClqfqKL.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/TWD17Um.jpg?1

They fail yet again, so Kallinikos just has to adopt the official stand that he did indeed impregnate Kristyna the last time he visited home, but his suspicions are by no means dispersed.

https://i.imgur.com/CuKBziM.jpg?1

All this finger-pointing and snooping around feels rather inappropriate (or at least unnecessary) when Kristyna dies from the complications of her pregnancy mere weeks later. Their relationship may have been difficult, but Kallinikos still mourns his late wife, even as political concerns force him to remarry. He ends up with Princess Guranduht of Georgia, a vassal Kingdom under the strange Empire of Albania. She is another tremendous diplomat, sure to make a good impression on everyone she meets. Guranduht is also made the Spymistress of Athens.

https://i.imgur.com/5RCfA7G.jpg?1

In 947, after almost two long and boring years of war, the enemy finally accepts his defeat and cedes the County of Thessalonike to Kallinikos. It is another wealthy region, a worthy addition to the Skleros demesne.

https://i.imgur.com/0u6tZDO.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/6pPgHBR.jpg?1

Now that the whole area is under his control, Kallinikos is free to pursue his dreams of the White Stag. Taking Faithful and a handful of skilled hunters with him, he rides into the woods, looking for that mightiest prey of all.

https://i.imgur.com/07UM625.jpg?1

Unfortunately, the Stag is nowhere to be found, but Kallinikos returns home no worse for wear and actually somewhat refreshed by those two weeks in the wilderness.

https://i.imgur.com/CcULVuf.jpg?1

A horde of opportunistic Finns led by the devious Mielus have sailed all the way to Anatolia to take advantage of the war enveloping the eastern front and spread the gospel of rye bread, for that is all the locals have left to eat after they come through. After they're done raiding the area, they declare an ambitious invasion of Sicily, having a surprisingly good chance of claiming it for their own and establishing their obscure tribe in the Mediterranean. It remains to be seen whether they'll even reach the island, though.

https://i.imgur.com/dexUC44.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/yi7HQ53.jpg?1

Kallinikos returns home from a diplomatic visit only to find his wife pregnant. His first instinct is to suspect her of infidelity, but at this point people are starting to assume these scenes are just more of his paranoid fits. He is somewhat inclined to agree, in fact, and decides to trust loving Guranduht's word for once and not worry about it too much. She later gives birth to Thekla, a little girl clearly sharing Kallinikos' features, soothing his fears.

https://i.imgur.com/DAe9EE8.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/JxkY7aP.jpg?1

In the meanwhile, though, Kallinikos is trying to find something else to think about and decides to go on another wild Stag hunt. While his party catches plenty of other prey, the Stag remains to be found.

https://i.imgur.com/8nIbPaG.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/acxMJII.jpg?1

While out hunting with him, Kallinikos' brother Theophanes humbly asks for permission to duel his bitter rival, who has been tormenting him constantly for years. Kallinikos is happy that Theophanes even bothered to ask, gladly granting him permission to defend his honor in single combat, as risky as it might be for such a... wimp. The grateful Theophanes returns home to prepare for his duel, though Kallinikos is doubtful he'll actually go through with it.

https://i.imgur.com/E9se8Px.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/VKrVdUJ.jpg?1

Soon after his brother leaves, Kallinikos is surprised to come across a majestic stag, though it's definitely not the White one he's looking for. Of course, he still plans to shoot it, but seeing its majestic visage poised on a cliff, silhouetted against the sun, he simply can't bring himself to bring down such a glorious creature. As it leaps away, he wonders whether it could've been a sign from God himself. After such a strangely eye-opening experience, he is ready to return home and contemplate it further, half expecting something big and dramatic to happen.

https://i.imgur.com/knJIPrn.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/91Dp0JD.jpg?1

His prediction just might've come true in October 948, as pagan adventurers gain more and more presence in the Mediterranean. One particular band of Norsemen somehow manages to pillage and conquer Rome itself, defacing many of its most important religious symbols in the process. This is the last straw! The exiled Pope calls for a new era of great Crusades, hoping to finally banish these infidels from the Mare Nostra and secure it for Christendom. Of course, the Pope doesn't really hold much sway over the Orthodox faithful...

https://i.imgur.com/n8KpjNO.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/waDhDKN.jpg?1

New Holy Orders are born to fulfill the Pope's righteous will, with a chance of becoming major military powers in the future, if fate allows. They only serve those of the Catholic confession, though, making them a threat for East Rome as well.

https://i.imgur.com/wx6cVIq.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/mYapTNI.jpg?1

While this particular group of infidels might not be entirely relevant from Athens' point of view, things take a very strange turn in March 949 when Khazaria's low-profile war against the Basileus ends up being a bit more successful than anyone, anywhere had predicted.

https://i.imgur.com/yDtvlz4.jpg?1
WHAT.
This is going to be... interesting...
Since when can hordes subjugate empires?

[Flickerdart]

That's...that's a thing.

Obviously, this means glorious war for the throne.

[Sian]

well ... declare war in the name of the true greek people for the throne of Rhômania

[Sallera]

A horde of opportunistic Finns led by the devious Mielus has sailed all the way to Anatolia to take advantage of the war enveloping the eastern front and spread the gospel of rye bread...
Shun the wheat-loving heathens! :smalltongue:


WHAT.
This is going to be... interesting...
Since when can hordes subjugate empires?
Did they make the Empire a tributary?

[SilverLeaf167]

Did they make the Empire a tributary?
Nah, Byzantium's color would have remained on the map AFAIK, just without the name. More concretely than that, the Byzantine Empire is now in fact held by the Khagan. :smalltongue:

[Sallera]

Well, isn't that fun. Be interesting to know how they pulled that one off.

Edit: And I hope the Khagan isn't too eager to revoke everyone's titles.

[Flickerdart]

Edit: And I hope the Khagan isn't too eager to revoke everyone's titles.

I hope he is - that's the best way to get people to hate him and join the "Kallinikos Skleros for Byzantine Empire" faction!

[SilverLeaf167]

If I haven't misunderstood something, in order to found a faction to make myself the Basileus I'd first have to own a kingdom within the empire (presumably Greece) and have a claim on the empire? That's not gonna happen immediately.

[Flickerdart]

Independence is also a good faction. Remember - when all the Counts become independent, you can declare war on them (or just invite them to be your vassals, if they love you enough + you are de jure liege) and absorb them into Greece.

[Cristo Meyers]

That's...that's a thing.


I thought the exact same thing.

Damn, I've never seen anything like this.

[GnomeGninjas]

I think you should convert.

[Alex Knight]

I have....briefly..seen the Byzantine Empire ruled by Tengri after a Khagan settled his tribe in the Empire. They quickly reverted to Orthodox though.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #6: The Enervated Empire

Kallinikos doesn't even believe the message at first. It is simply too absurd. After finally internalizing its meaning, he stares in shock, gasping for words, like so many others in the Empire – or the Khaganate, as one should say.

https://i.imgur.com/yDtvlz4.jpg?1

Everyone had expected him to only take some of the Empire's isolated holdings across the Black Sea, but the Khagan of Khazaria has instead completely usurped the East Roman Empire, leaving the heretic Badshah Bartholomaios only his direct holdings in Thrace and Epirus. Khagan Bulcan styles himself the Khagan of both realms, with all the Strategoi serving as his direct vassals. He is a mere nomad, and an infidel at that, but his realm is now arguably the mightiest in the known world.

https://i.imgur.com/B01cujC.jpg?1

Kallinikos can not completely grasp the situation. He can feel another of his paranoid moods setting in; is this what God was warning him about? Should he have shot the deer after all, just like how he should have interfered in this conquest rather than just watch smugly by? After all, it was his Delian League that destroyed the Badshah's armies and doomed him to defeat against the infidel. It was his ambition for personal power that led to the great Empire's downfall.

No, he must not sink into despair. Kallinikos Skleros was the most powerful of the Strategoi, and now with the Badshah out of the picture, he is the most powerful of all the Greeks. Many others look to him as a great leader and will expect him to lead them to victory against this greatest foe in the history of the Empire, and rise again, stronger than ever!

That said, dreams of a reunited East Rome may be doomed to failure. The best they can hope for is to break free from these savage conquerors; but from there, a new Greek nation will take the old one's place! Greece has endured, defeated and driven back many eastern oppressors in its time, and the Khazars will be but the latest addition to the list!

Kallinikos wastes no time calling all the baffled Strategoi to converge on the island of Delos in the middle of Aegean Sea, where the original Delian League used to make its home ages ago. Once they're all there, under the stars he gives one of the most discussed speeches in Greece's long history:



”My fellow Strategoi... Greeks... valiant defenders of Christendom...

You all have surely received the same word as I: the East Roman Empire has fallen. Vast, barbaric hordes from the east have invaded our ancestral lands, putting our homes to the torch and desecrating our most sacred shrines. They have paraded right into Constantinople, willingly allowed through all the Walls of Theodosius to deliver their demands to the former so-called Badshah, who feebly accepted unconditional surrender, pathetic as he is. Clearly he wasn't only incompetent and cruel, but a heretic conspirator plotting the fall of Christendom itself! Not even the most pious of soldiers can seize victory when led by a man such as Bartholomaios!

Indeed, our dear Empire has followed its western brother to the grave, at the hands of invaders. These two states' declines mirror each other: East Rome has been in a steady decline for centuries now, forced to concede the Levant to the Muslims, and now its entirety to the Khazars, nothing but upstart shepherds from the barren wasteland who exploited the weakness of our worst Emperor yet! It is of clear significance that the Eternal City of Rome itself was also invaded by another pack of pagans just a short time ago. This is a sign from God if we ever saw one... but it is not a sign of the end times.

God's message to mankind is clear: he has lifted his blessings from the Romans and their heirs, and it is our divine duty to forge ourselves a new destiny in this broken world. We should not go digging in that graveyard of empires in a misguided attempt to revive Rome once again, but accept its loss and create a new empire altogether, in the ancient spirit of Alexander! These new 'overlords' of ours call themselves Jews, those same Hebrews who killed our Savior and rebelled against Rome once before, and now they have taken our Patriarch hostage! This is clearly a trial from God, a trial by fire, one we must pass! One we will pass! We will prove our worth in the eyes of God!

There is no doubt: it is the duty of every true Christian and every true Greek to resist this unjust tyranny! We will break free and take control of our own fates! The Empire may be gone, but Greece itself is never conquered, only occupied!”



The speech is met with wild applause, shouts of approval and fervid chants. Not all agree with everything Kallinikos just said, but their national pride and hatred of the Khazars take precedence, and the few dissidents aren't stupid enough to raise their opinions in this company. For some reason, however, people seem reluctant to actually join the renewed Delian League, perhaps recognizing the problems it caused last time; they just wanted to channel their immediate frustration.

At Delos, Kallinikos is also greeted by the young Count of Taranto, who he (awkwardly enough) didn't even realize had sworn vassalage to him, apparently in the wake of the Delian League's uprising. The Strategos isn't really sure what to say, other than greet his apparently loyal vassal back.

https://i.imgur.com/YGc0iPx.jpg?1

In a rather strange twist, Khagan Bulcan declares the prior Viceroyalty system defunct; the tribe's government cannot handle its complexity, and the concept of power granted by bureaucracy is foreign to them anyway. The title of Strategos was directly connected to that old institution, so Kallinikos is now properly the Doux of Athens; the same applies to every Theme (now Duchy) across the realm. After long years of living on lease, so to speak, the Skleroi are now the direct and irrevokable lords of Athens. Kallinikos shakes his almost grateful head in disbelief, reminding himself that the Khagan isn't doing this due to any sense of charity, and that he is indeed still a Khagan, not his rightful liege.

To reinforce his rebellious sentiment, Kallinikos decides he needs to display Athens' own military might and resistance to foreign rule. He founds an elite guard known as the Phalanx of the Parthenon, consisting of skilled hoplites in direct service to their Doux. Rigorously trained and imposingly dressed, they shall be a respected symbol of Athenian hegemony. In peacetime, they will guard the ruling family and serve a ceremonial role, while at war they can participate as inspiring examples to the other soldiers.

https://i.imgur.com/WjEt9kJ.jpg?1

The Pope, currently a ”Prisoner in the Vatican”, calls for an immediate crusade against the realm of East Francia in Germany, as King Ludwig the Just has converted to the Waldensian heresy and renounced the Pope. If enough people join this sudden war, Germany might see some serious reorganization. This doesn't really have any direct effect on the Greek crisis, though, and achieves very little anyway, as no one seems interested in joining. It quite reminds Kallinikos of his own failure of a league.

https://i.imgur.com/yIDK2oh.jpg?1

Another strange and dramatic twist occurs in September 949 as Khagan Bulcan renounces his title as Khagan of Khazaria and leaves it to a powerful vassal of his, choosing to settle down in the East Roman Empire – which Kallinikos so proudly declared defunct – and rule it directly, as a proper feudal lord. As a result of confused politics, a few counts still remain loyal to the realm of Khazaria.

https://i.imgur.com/ifqKyPy.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/1iH9jgW.jpg?1

This is most confusing, and Kallinikos isn't quite sure how to react. Their new ruler is still illegitimate and an infidel, but the Empire has been revived in some bastardized form after all. Even worse, some formerly defiant Greeks have been shockingly willing to accept his culture and religion in this very short time, enforcing this change on their innocent subjects as well. It is still clear that Athens must either break free or install a more appropriate Basileus, but the situation has changed drastically.

https://i.imgur.com/HiZMQOz.jpg?1

In either case, Kallinikos must prepare for war in the immediate future.

https://i.imgur.com/JjxgS3O.jpg?1

Or so he thinks. As the year 950 nears its end, Kallinikos is deeply disturbed by his fellow Doukes' complacency: they almost seem to be happy under the Khagan's iron fist. Yes, a few laws may seem more favorable at the moment, but he's doing his best to make them stricter again! Yes, he seems like a surprisingly benevolent ruler, but he's a barbarian! Do these fools not see? They have been seduced by the Devil, and all of Greece is going to suffer for their mistake! Kallinikos shivers with rage, unable to fight the whole Empire on his own. For now, he will have to swallow his pride and stand his ground. He will not assimilate, however, and neither will the other Skleroi!

Time passes. It does indeed seem that most of the other Doukes consider the Khagan a superior replacement for their own Badshah. While his reign really hasn't been that bad so far, from a practical point of view at least, Kallinikos knows that it's just simply wrong. In an attempt to keep his commanders aware of the situation, he decides to organize a tabletop war game for them. In addition to entertainment and training, it will also serve as good propaganda for the court.

https://i.imgur.com/Ntv7baB.jpg?1

After they set up the table and the game is on, Kallinikos – perhaps unknowingly – bases his tactics on those his side utilized in the War of the New Delian League. He focuses heavily on defense, gathering his troops in an impenetrable position and luring the enemy to attack. This approach ends up working perfectly, just like it did last time, earning Kallinikos a clear victory and reinforcing his position as a skilled commander.

https://i.imgur.com/JXGNc6M.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ex4Q6Ps.jpg?1

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Probably unrelated to the above but still well timed, an excited author from the Athenian School of Philosophy approaches Kallinikos and pleads for permission to write a complete history of the house of Skleros, especially the latest generations who saw it rise to the dominant power in the Empire. Kallinikos is very happy to grant him permission and patronage – in these trying times, it is doubly important to remind people of their past and true identity. Not that Kallinikos himself is too shabby either.

https://i.imgur.com/a9Cq2BV.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/a5hX2c8.jpg?1

In April 953, Khagan Bulcan declares an unholy war of conquest against the Kingdom of Bulgaria, hoping to seize one of their border duchies. Kallinikos sneers at his liege's attempts to spread his infidel faith and will not participate in the fighting. The war is over rather soon, Bulcan claiming the land for himself.

https://i.imgur.com/gha8FY0.jpg?1

Soon after, Kallinikos witnesses the kidnapping of his loyal vassal and commander Bishop Photios while their party is traveling through the woods. Without even stopping to consider, the Doux rides after the bandits, catching them quickly and allowing his guards to capture them. He gives them just a trial (ending in indefinite imprisonment), as his reputation and very nature require.

https://i.imgur.com/2m37C6O.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/YcJrKnt.jpg?1

Kallinikos comes to the conclusion that if his fellow lords truly aren't willing to help him break free from the Empire, he must greatly strengthen his own demesne. For this purpose, anything is acceptable! He already rules two thirds of the Duchy of Thessalonika, so it is fully within his rights to claim the last County too, even if the Doux is his brother Theophanes and the Count his cousin Eustratios. They have both adopted their oppressor's faith, and are no longer Kallinikos' blood in spirit! The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb, and these dogs have made a covenant with the Devil!

https://i.imgur.com/u7SF49w.jpg?1

At least this shameful war will be easy. The Athenian army casually crushes the meager opposition awaiting in Chalkidike and lays siege to the castle of Serres.

https://i.imgur.com/6tCmXDt.jpg?1

Kallinikos' heir Kaisarios, having practiced lordly life as a Baron for a while now, has finally reached majority. His mental talents truly did not disappoint, making him a master at practically everything he does, especially financial and governmental matters. He has also inherited many of his father's virtues, including his famous zeal. He is married to Countess Valeria of the neighboring Euboia, which their eventual heir will hopefully inherit, expanding Athens even further. Kaisarios will make a good Doux, worthy of his name.

https://i.imgur.com/LEk3l6d.jpg?1

In December 954, the lengthy and uneventful sieges are finally over and Kallinikos is given what he wants: the County of Chalkidike. Though he now controls the Duchy of Thessalonika in its entirety, Imperial law stops him from usurping the actual title from his cousin, a fellow vassal. Of course, de facto control of the land is what really matters. He soon grants it to Kaisarios, unable to effectively manage too many holdings himself but confident in his son's abilities.

https://i.imgur.com/Jk0wZww.jpg?1

While helping his neighbor and ally Countess Ioulia become the Duchess of Achaia, Kallinikos has been personally taking the lead in many battles and consequently learning even more about the practical side of command. In particular, he has resolved to fully understand the finer aspects of fighting in Greece's mountainous terrain, critical for his defensive tactics and to stop his enemies from doing the same.

https://i.imgur.com/CkZFmLk.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/GIiP5GJ.jpg?1

As this emphasis on petty wars instead of the real problem might imply, Kallinikos is, worryingly enough, almost getting used to life under the filthy Khagan. He has shaken off some of his obsession with rebellion and decided to focus more on Athens' local economy and well-being; though war and conquest are still on his mind, it would be simply unresponsible to devote all his time to them. Athens' liberation is a long-time goal, and most long-time goals in this material world tend to require money.

https://i.imgur.com/23HUysi.jpg?1

Kaisarios, serving as Athens' Chancellor, reports success in his mission to gather justification for a reconquest of Dyrrachion, presently a Duchy under the greatly weakened Bulgarians but historically known as Macedonia, which is obviously a rightful and important part of Greece. Kallinikos jumps at the chance, declaring war almost immediately.

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His armies gather and march across the border practically unopposed, Bulgaria's meager army busy warring against the Pomeranians in the north. The first year or so consists of nothing but besieging Debar, the ducal capital. After that, Kallinikos moves onto other targets, but King Radislav seems rather stubborn and his surrender may take a while.

https://i.imgur.com/vuWcbEZ.jpg?1

As Kallinikos' war continues, the idiotic Doukes finally approve of the Khagan's attempts to reinforce his influence over them, once again banning warfare between vassals. This will somewhat inconvenience the Skleroi...

Following his total subjugation of Pomerania (with Bulgaria's aid), the Jewish Khagan of the Magyars has decided to leave his tribe behind and settle down in this newly conquered territory. He founds the impractically named Empire of Szekelyföld, commonly known as Hungary, stretching from the Carpathian mountains to the Baltic Sea. In doing so he adopts the feudal contract and modern standards of habitation, weakening his raw military strength but paving the way for future development and wealth. A potential great power has emerged in the region.

https://i.imgur.com/keAebcr.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/WjkWEs9.jpg?1

Khagan Bulcan dies, passing the Empire to his son Bihor. Though he may seem like a perfectly pleasant little boy, there are persistent rumors of him torturing small animals for fun and otherwise abusing those around him. He may become a tyrant one day... or, you know, not. For now, Spymaster Niki serves as his regent. In Kallinikos' opinion, all the infidel boy needs is a good whipping (and forced conversion).

https://i.imgur.com/AES8rdX.jpg?1

In June 963, King Radislav of Bulgaria finally accepts his defeat, as if it hadn't been obvious 4 years ago. Kallinikos passes these lands onto Kaisarios as well, though he keeps the actual title of Doux for himself.

https://i.imgur.com/KHyuJxS.jpg?1

While internal warfare is once again banned, outside the Empire's borders Kaisarios is hard at work ”procuring” more claims and excuses for war, this time on a Muslim sheikhdom in Cyprus, another culturally and traditionally Greek territory. It is held by an independent and rather weak Emir, but Kallinikos wants to recover his forces for a while before sending them to die again.

https://i.imgur.com/YnffXTa.jpg?1

Princess Guranduht passes away. Many want the 51-year old Kallinikos 'the Bold' to get a new wife, but he refuses – at his age, he feels any wife would far outlive him, and Athens' alliances haven't proven very reliable in the past either. He'll live the rest of his years without a Duchess.

In February 964, when his levies are just about reinforced, Kallinikos begins his invasion of Famagusta. He wants to achieve as much as he can before his inevitable death. He gathers all 7 000 of his men before shipping them over, and surprisingly many of his allies join the fray too, making his recent rant about their loyalty feel somewhat awkward.

https://i.imgur.com/qhoainr.jpg?2

Though Kallinikos had hoped that some more warfare would distract him, he mourns Guranduht deeply – more deeply than he'd imagined. However, this mourning just reinforces his belief that he shall never remarry until his death and their reunion in Heaven.

https://i.imgur.com/NaECzOG.jpg?1

It seems that his allies can handle Cyprus itself, so Kallinikos leads his men onto the enemy holdings in mainland Cilicia. After taking the Emir's capital, he marches to engage his army. They are stationed in a very defensible mountain pass, but Kallinikos is aided by the Count of Ikonion, who has declared his own war of opportunity for the conquest of Cilicia. Kallinikos wins his war shortly, but the Count ends up losing his after Athens' men leave the area.

https://i.imgur.com/WAk3cpp.jpg?1

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Athens has successfully conquered Famagusta, the northern half of the Duchy of Cyprus. While the locals are indeed obvious Greeks, they have been converted to Sunni Islam over the generations, so the Court Bishop of Athens is sent to organize their reconversion to the true faith. East Rome as a whole could really use some of that, too.

https://i.imgur.com/x40XUKW.jpg?1

At 55 years, Kallinikos is almost unreasonably convinced that he might die any minute, but wants to organize that one great merchant expedition before doing so. His Steward Heleus, another of Perseus' boys, is happy to arrange the trip. Unlike his father, Kallinikos would rather handle the preparations properly than risk ruining the whole trip, and everything seems to go well.

https://i.imgur.com/SCqYDTm.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/6IH0aHq.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Rv9hd6w.jpg?1

They sail up the Dnieper River to reach the wartorn Kingdom of Könugarthr, a Norse realm in Russian lands, where the very busy and very pagan King Ulfr reluctantly welcomes them, perhaps hoping to fund his current conflict. Kallinikos brings great gifts to butter him up, and not even his clueless companions' best efforts can ruin this contract. His relations with said buffoons suffer somewhat, but surely they'll understand.

https://i.imgur.com/ooXEUq5.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/PP0FW16.jpg?1

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Despite their strong religious and cultural differences, Kallinikos and Ulfr seem to hit it off surprisingly well, becoming good friends and engaging each other in deep conversation with the aid of some very weary translators. Jarl Ulfr isn't even particularly bothered by the news that his whole Kingdom has been subjugated by the reemergent Pomeranians, for he is too captivated with Kallinikos' stories to pay attention.

https://i.imgur.com/CjWDHZD.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/iWNwztU.jpg?1

Filling his cargo hold to the brim with exotic goods, Kallinikos returns home with a happy mind and full purse, promising to write letters to his new friend. This has been a very refreshing journey, indeed.

https://i.imgur.com/NSOwTjY.jpg?1

As the Doux returns home, he discovers that the Iconoclast heresy of old has suddenly gained new traction in Demetrias, right within the capital Duchy! What little joy he had in his mind is immediately banished. The Court Bishop is immediately recalled from Famagusta and put to work before this false faith spreads among innocent Christians. However, it soon infects Athens the capital as well. Kallinikos struggles to keep his wits about him and face yet another trial of his faith.

https://i.imgur.com/10syYky.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/1ghsqI1.jpg?1

In the summer of 968, word arrives that an army of adventuring Norsemen is sailing for Thessalonika - Kallinikos' rightful land! - aiming to carve out a state of their own, right in the middle of the Empire! Both Kallinikos and young Khagan Bihor mobilize their armies to be ready to push these petty raiders back into the sea as soon as they arrive. Their masts are finally spotted in the horizon a few months later, but their landing is a great failure.

https://i.imgur.com/4EKoUE9.jpg?1

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Shortly after the battle, however, Kallinikos sleeps away in his tent in December 968. A half-finished and angrily crumpled letter to Ulfr is found near his bedding. He remained a great and respected ruler through all of his reign, only succumbing to depression near the very end.

https://i.imgur.com/k7phLwA.jpg?1

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Long live Kaisarios Skrellos, Doux of Athens and Dyrrachion, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika, Chalkidike, Ohrid, Strymon and Famagusta, Baron of Daphni, Liege Lord of Taranto!

https://i.imgur.com/b3rvTe8.jpg?1
”I, for one, welcome our new Turkish Khazar overlords.” - every goddamn Doux in the Empire

No, I don't feel stupid for writing that long speech only to have everything undone a few months later, why do you ask?

Apparently Khagans can indeed subjugate empires in Horse Lords; everything working ”as intended”. This is rapidly turning into one of those bazillion ”haha look at the weird thing” threads on reddit, eh? :smalltongue: The situation did pretty much stabilize, though. These radical changes happening on the world map in just a single lifetime make me wonder whether I should actually have a showcase at the end of each chapter, rather than a really big one just every now and then?

Another pretty lengthy chapter, but eh, he lived a long life. And yeah, I'm looking for excuses to make the list of titles at the end as long as possible. If we declare independence, might ”Breaker of Chains” be appropriate? ”Mother of Dragons” is a little more awkward. :smallwink:


I think you should convert.
I might, but not as a Zealous character, which we seem to have plenty of.

[Sian]

Kaisarios seems likely to convert, with his lunacy :smallcool:

Sounds like Judaism is quite strong this game. Religious map please?

[SilverLeaf167]

Kaisarios seems likely to convert, with his lunacy :smallcool:

Sounds like Judaism is quite strong this game. Religious map please?
Judaism dominates literally all of Khazaria (which covers the vast majority of the steppes and Siberia), the Magyars (who have dwindled quite a bit), Constantinople and a few counties in Anatolia. I think the majority of the Byzantine Doukes have converted by now, though, so Judaism should start spreading here too.

Kaisarios might indeed convert one day, but if you look closely, he currently really dislikes the Khagan; he won't be very eager to please him, for the moment at least.

[Flickerdart]

Convert? There's only one thing you should convert - the Khagan and his traitorous men, into corpses.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #7: The Submissive Sicilians

The gifted Kaisarios has performed well in his duties so far, and will surely continue to do so in the future. His great intellect and genuine search for knowledge have made him seek out many philosophical texts and ancient tomes; however, word is that in his studies Kaisarios discovered things man was never meant to know, plaguing him with strange visions to this day and even shaking his once so strong faith in God's mercy.

https://i.imgur.com/Em3HpIR.jpg?1

His wife Valeria is formally known as the Duchess of Sibir as the result of some Khazar mess-up, while her actual holdings are in Euboia right next to Athens. Their marriage was little more than a political ploy, and hasn't changed much from there; called the ”Ill-Ruler”, she is notoriously arbitrary and petty in both her public and personal life, and Kaisarios bears little love for her. Though she has been converted to Judaism, like so many other Greek rulers, she hasn't tried to push her faith on Kaisarios, knowing it futile.

https://i.imgur.com/2vRMmSX.jpg?1

Their only son and heir Romanos seems to be blessed much like his father. He has spent a couple years under the mentorship of a local priest, catching some bad habits but also a strong religious conviction. Kaisarios has decided to recall him to Athens once more, hoping to shape him into the best ruler possible.

https://i.imgur.com/e0xTxqM.jpg?1

Indeed, as Athens is under spiritual siege from heretics and infidels both outside and within, it is important that Kaisarios keep his Orthodox faith as strong as possible. His Court Bishop recommends that he direct his academical enthusiasm towards religious matters and visit Jerusalem as a pilgrim, both to contemplate his relation to God and perhaps learn a little more about these Jewish oppressors. Maybe he'll find explanations for those mind-rending hallucinations he keeps having, too.

https://i.imgur.com/vUeGa6j.jpg?1

As skilled as Kaisarios may be, personally managing three duchies' worth of land is a little too much even for him. He thus grants the Counties within Dyrrachion to his cousin Konstantios, a skilled commander who played an important role in their conquest; a close relative, yet not close enough to potentially contest any of Kaisarios' titles.

https://i.imgur.com/R6rvDBv.jpg?1

The second wave of Norse invaders takes nearly a year to arrive. Once they do, Kaisarios has already rallied his troops, but really doesn't mind the Khagan taking care of them for him. Athens can surely use those men elsewhere. After having his army of 5000 utterly crushed over the course of a few battles, Helgi Hakonsson the Norseman is thrown into the Khagan's dungeons.

https://i.imgur.com/MRMtbya.jpg?1

Now that the war is over, Kaisarios is urged to embark on his pilgrimage, but he knows that it is far too risky as long as Athens is nominally involved in another Greek Doux's war for Cilicia. Instead, his Chancellor has managed to secure a claim – much like he used to do - on the County of Salerno in Southern Italy, held by a petty Duke whose realm nominally includes Kaisarios' vassal in Taranto. Said vassal hasn't been very useful, being far too weak to actually do much, but strengthening them and securing a foothold in Italy wouldn't be a bad idea at all.

https://i.imgur.com/ZqSTOHm.jpg?1

Duke Hanus' armies are currently out fighting some petty succession war in Bulgaria, allowing Athens' men to march right over into their territory. Before the siege of Salerno is even finished, the very competent Chancellor manages to secure a similar claim on the neighboring Benevento. These areas are rightfully part of the Empire anyway, so surely this wanton conquest isn't an issue?

https://i.imgur.com/YF8QH7U.jpg?1

The conquest of Salerno ends in victory, the County granted to Theodotos of Taranto. Though Kaisarios has another claim burning in his pocket, he sends the armies home for now so he can focus on other things for a while.

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Khagan Bihor has turned 16 and assumed full responsibility of his office. People's fears were proven true, as he has become an ambitionless, lying snake, fond of manipulating his court and vassals for his sheer entertainment. However, to make up for his own total incompetence in financial matters, he offers Kaisarios the position of Imperial Steward. Though he really bears no loyalty or fondness for his liege, Kaisarios accepts the position in hopes of more wealth and influence, much like his grandfather Adrianos once became Chancellor. Perhaps he can even keep a watchful eye on the young Khagan.

https://i.imgur.com/TjtbtdC.jpg?1

Meanwhile, the Court Bishop's mission to curtail the Iconoclasts in Athens has required some rather ruthless measures, but ultimately succeeded, ending a period of religious resistance in the area! Happy with this small victory, Kaisarios sends the priest to Demetrias and orders him to do whatever worked last time. He finds very quick success there and is shipped back to Famagusta once again, the heretic problem solved for now.

https://i.imgur.com/54eKgOb.jpg?1

The conquest of Cilicia is unlucky, but Athens was completely unaffected by the whole mess anyway. Finally at peace, Kaisarios is headed for Jerusalem. Unlike his grandfather, who left on the same trip filled with zeal and excitement, Kaisarios is doing it from a sense of duty and actually feeling somewhat cynical. His mood definitely isn't improved by the sudden flash flood that forces him to share a boat with a bunch of farmers and their animals, followed by various other setbacks and unpleasantries. The sudden appearance of the Knights Hospitaller doesn't make him feel much better, but they turn out to be legitimately friendly and manage to escort him safely to the Holy City.

https://i.imgur.com/peTQKxD.jpg?1

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However, the whole pilgrimage leaves him thoroughly unimpressed. Where many others have found enlightenment, he has found only barren land and a few piles of stone. If he wasn't cynical and pessimistic before, he definitely is now.

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After returning home, he doesn't take long to declare on Duke Nino II of Benevento. The Duke himself is practically defenseless, but the involvement of the Doge of Venice may complicate matters somewhat. Kaisarios makes a mental note to procure a claim on Venice sometime.

https://i.imgur.com/pHtj1tx.jpg?1

They use their large navy to land an army in Athens within just a couple weeks, so Kaisarios decides to prioritize them, even managing to capture one of the republic's five Patricians, before heading to Italy again.

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Though Kaisarios had decided not to share his faltering faith with others, it proves quite difficult for a Doux with various priests circling him half of the time. One ”discussion” turns a little heated and Kaisarios ends up saying things that shock everyone within earshot, most of whom have never even heard such foul words.

https://i.imgur.com/Gb67Khb.jpg?1

Count Konstantios dies in combat against Nino II, robbing Athens of a great strategist and making his toddler Anastasia the new Countess. The war is smooth sailing from there, however, eventually gaining Benevento after two years of war. The title is granted to (another) Konstantios, Kaisarios' second cousin once removed.

At peace for a while, Kaisarios decides to put aside his misgivings and really immerse himself in the scriptures. The visions come rarely these days, but when they do, they're horrible as ever, and he is desperate for any way to free himself of them. He doesn't have much luck in that regard, but he does learn plenty of other things about God, Jesus and the Orthodox church.

https://i.imgur.com/BGItUko.jpg?1

Many years of relative inaction follow. Capable of both holding a large demesne and managing it effectively, Kaisarios is hauling great riches into the Skleros treasury and then immediately investing it to ensure the realm's future prosperity. The Chancellor, having spent all this time on this single project, finally manages to dig up sufficiently convincing claims on Amalfi, former republic and the Duke of Salerno's last County. The army is well reinforced and rested, so war is declared soon.

https://i.imgur.com/xZSzF64.jpg?1

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The enemy army is destroyed with ease and their capital besieged.

At home, Athens celebrates Romanos' birthday. He has become a magnificent future Doux, even more competent than his father. Though his vices include Gluttony and Envy, he is also just, honest and devoted to his realm as well as his faith. Kaisarios has even managed to pass on his intimate grasp of economics, earning Romanos the respected office of Steward.

https://i.imgur.com/h4tGOyA.jpg?1

He is betrothed to Viviana Euforbenos, daughter of the Count of Taranto, praised for her nature, wit and especially her healthy physique.

https://i.imgur.com/5fqvW1r.jpg?1

Speaking of Taranto, the war is won and Amalfi is handed over to the Count. He now controls the entirety of the Duchy of Salerno, but Imperial law bans Doukes from serving under another, so he cannot actually claim the proper title for himself. Kaisarios doesn't really want it either, since having such a long list of titles so many prestigious Duchies all to himself probably wouldn't please his vassals.

https://i.imgur.com/5VVn8qo.jpg?1

Another peaceful decade or so follows, the Chancellor apparently having hit a wall in his efforts; or perhaps been bribed or otherwise ”convinced”, as Kaisarios suspects, stationing him elsewhere for a change. However, in more pleasant and actually quite surprising news, Romanos reports that according to his research, Athens seems to have the highest tax income of any state in the known world, even as a mere Duchy, and the Skleroi the richest men in the world! This is a combination of the Duchy's highly developed land, Kaisarios' absolutely sublime administration and admittedly very high taxes, but this huge lead will only keep building on itself as all that money is reinvested into the realm. For comparison, Athens' flow of wealth alone is larger than that of East Rome, the Abbasid Caliphate and the Kingdom of Italy combined. Of course, we're speaking of the lieges' taxes, not every individual vassals' put together, and Romanos' studies can't possibly have covered every single treasury in detail, but it is clear that the Skleroi have created a Duchy far, far out of the ordinary.

Though the same old nightmares still plague Kaisarios, he has almost gotten used to them, and these well-off times have slowly made him lighten up and abandon his cynical attitude. This might be part of the reason why when his daughter 14-year old daughter Romylia humbly begs him to let her join a monastery, he simply cannot bring himself to refuse, even though he honestly harbors some thoughts about the gluttonous, chronically proud and very social little girl's suitability for such a life.

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A few petty vassals convert to Catholicism or some other heresy, but Kaisarios' sheer learnedness and debating skills are enough to awe them into reconversion. This age of complacency is shaken somewhat as a Monothelite movement has risen to prominence in Ohrid, feeding on the local Bulgarians' misled frustration with their ”foreign” occupation. Once again, the Court Bishop is sent in to take care of it; though Famagusta still remains Muslim, at least they're not really spreading their faith, whereas this heretical thought might assault neighboring areas at any time.

This little wake-up might have been for the best, since only a few days later in August 982 the Catholic Pope declares a Crusade for Greece, effective immediately! While Kaisarios wouldn't really mind the Jews being beaten around, submitting to these Schismatics would be an only marginally better option, and they might even try to lay their grubby hands on Athens! As much as it pains him, Kaisarios will actually have to fight back in the defense of the Empire; it's for his own good.

https://i.imgur.com/mWzmEFe.jpg?2

He mobilizes his armies, which have grown to number over 10 000 well-trained men, and gathers them in Thessalia to stand ready against any sudden landing. However, other Catholics are quite slow to join the Pope's side, prompting Kaisarios to take the initiative. He ferries his whole army over to Rome and lays siege to the Eternal City while the Papal armies are busy with their suicide attack against the City of the World's Desire, Constantinople – their army is soon wiped out by the Khagan.

https://i.imgur.com/6MXesv1.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/42KwSVi.jpg?1

By August 984, the Pope has had enough of getting his armies thrown around and his holdings pillaged. He concedes that the whole crusade was really a rather poor idea and probably shouldn't be repeated anytime soon. It might've gone somewhat better, though, if he'd been joined by anybody other than a few minor lords from the British Isles and the city-state of Napoli.

https://i.imgur.com/yWpL9wp.jpg?1

Kaisarios is glad to have his armies free, the same old Chancellor finally having fabricated a justification for the conquest of Malta, that island fortress south of Sicily. Indeed, while looking through the Khagan's documents as Steward, Kaisarios has realized that he very quietly repealed his reinstallment of the Imperial Privileges quite a while ago, allowing his vassals to fight each other once again. All the better for Athens, for the Doux of Sicily stands no chance against the mighty Phalanx! He declares war and regroups his almost unscathed armies to wait for their naval transport.

https://i.imgur.com/aVe21bk.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/FLZGoNp.jpg?1

The army makes a detour in Salerno to stop the Sicilians' advance before heading over to Malta.

https://i.imgur.com/qXo4A5t.jpg?1

However, as Kaisarios is busy cruising around the Southern Mediterranean, the Sicilians call in some allies of theirs who invade Athens' home territory, though they struggle to penetrate most of its heavy defenses. After successfully taking Malta, the army sails back home in the nick of time to drive the Achaians off the walls of Athens. That is enough for the Doux of Sicily to accept his defeat.

https://i.imgur.com/mVfbOoC.jpg?1

As per usual, Kaisarios grants the County to another Skleros – choosing Romanos himself, as the young man has been yearning a proper fief of his own for a while now. Malta may be a little isolated, but all the more strategically important.

Kaisarios, on the other hand, is tired of isolating himself in his chambers with nothing but books to keep him company. He has found no reprieve from the voices, even earning himself the unflattering nickname of 'the Mad', and the Bible's vague suggestions of demonic possessions don't really help much. He decides to finally and openly devote himself to the economy of the realm, as if that wasn't what he's been doing for the past couple decades.

https://i.imgur.com/jPBIjZb.jpg?1

About a year later, the Chancellor reports in with a new casus belli on Napoli, which was conquered by a band of Norsemen some years ago. As they had converted to Catholicism, an outright crusade was out of the question, but it really wasn't too hard to find evidence against the rule of such barbarians. Expecting a very easy war, Kaisarios mobilizes and marches for the city. Tryggve the Conqueror won't know what hit him!

https://i.imgur.com/0kYMfxM.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/0t0yBcJ.jpg?1

An easy war is what he gets, quickly crushing the enemy army and storming their battlements. Napoli is seized and, being a part of the unclaimed Duchy of Capua, temporarily granted to Romanos to be handled after he becomes Doux. It is a rather rich urban center (once repaired, of course) and surely of great aid in his own efforts.

https://i.imgur.com/XOXQaI5.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/0zWsrcc.jpg?1

Khagan Bihor 'the Quarreller' dies of ”poor health” at the age of 33. Many suspect something sinister, but most really don't mind. This begins another regency for Khagan Kundaciq, a boy of some promise, tutored by a very competent and pleasant Israelite Jew who can be trusted to make him a much better ruler than his father.

https://i.imgur.com/g7LewA5.jpg?2

More similar warfare follows as Kaisarios tightens his grip over Sicily, conquering Catanzaro. The County is given to Romanos, as per convention, and Athens just keeps growing in wealth and power. Kaisarios also manages to conquer the last of Dyrrachion as its Khazar Count rebels against his liege and leaves himself unprotected, letting Kaisarios secure the whole Duchy for his own vassal.

https://i.imgur.com/SgXQdIs.jpg?1

Kaisarios' wife Valeria dies in January 997 at the ripe age of 68, leaving the County of Euboia and, uh, Duchy of Sibir to Romanos. According to pesky Imperial law, this means Romanos is no longer a vassal of Kaisarios, but he doesn't mind that much, knowing that Romanos will inherit all of Athens and the domain will be reunited sooner or later.

https://i.imgur.com/wqjB3eL.jpg?1

Apart from all that, Kaisarios really does focus on managing his realm, high and low. He funds more settlements, castles and even petty monasteries, sometimes for sheer profit and sometimes for public image or just because.

https://i.imgur.com/b9ROwBj.jpg?1

Kaisarios peacefully sleeps away just a week after his 60th birthday in April 998, peaceful at last. As his nickname 'the Mad' strongly implies, he was a very controversial figure in life and death: the stories about his incurable madness can get rather wild at times, and his warmongering through blatant manipulation has raised some eyebrows, but most agree that he was still the most competent administrator the Duchy has had, and none can really bear a grudge against him.

https://i.imgur.com/qLPq2vi.jpg?1

Long live Romanos Skleros, Doux of Athens and Dyrrachion, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika, Chalkidike, Famagusta, Euboia and Malta, Liege Lord of Salerno, Benevento and Catanzaro!

https://i.imgur.com/jswgsRk.jpg?1
In these decades, the Khagan himself has been focusing on expansion in the Balkans, while Athens has been grabbing Sicily and Charsianon has exploited the Magyars' weakness, declaring itself the Khanate of Taurica but then losing most of its new lands. The majority of the Doukes haven't really done much, incapable of centralizing even their current realm and spending most of their resources on internal conflict. Athens is still the most economically and militarily powerful vassal by far, its levies numbering almost 13 000 men, followed as very distant seconds (with about 3 500 men each) by Adrianopolis, the unlanded Varangian Guard and Moesia.

https://i.imgur.com/Ndu2XZ5.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/0gXlC2C.jpg?1

Aquitaine has been able to exploit Burgundy and France's power struggles and carve itself a powerful state; none of the three are held by the Karling dynasty any longer, though those descendants of Charlemagne do still rule lesser demesnes within these Kingdoms. Lotharingia is plagued by internal unrest, but most other borders in Germany have remained remarkably stable. The British isles are dominated by the unified Kingdoms of England and Scotland, which have yet to fight each other directly but are sure to clash soon enough as their borders meet.

https://i.imgur.com/Znb15Hq.jpg?1

While Norway is struggling with rebels and the upstart Count of Nidaros, the neighboring realm's situation is much more interesting. From what anyone can gather, the eternal mess that is tribal politics ended up with the Kingdom of Sweden splitting into Sweden and Suomi (a.k.a. Finland), both held by Finnish kings. Erkki Virtanen, the new King of Sweden, then conquered his brother Tuure's lands and took his title, reuniting the realm under the title of the Kingdom of Suomi. This peculiar tribal state isn't very stable, though, due to a new succession crisis looming on the horizon and Erkki's deep unpopularity stemming from his foreign ways, false religion and status as an usurper.

https://i.imgur.com/6MzQxNF.jpg?1

Eastern Europe is even more of a fragmented chaos, but there are some things to be discerned, mainly that the King of Pomerania has converted to Catholicism, upsetting his vassals and paving the way for both rebellion and conquest against him. It remains to be seen how much will be left of the mighty Kingdom, but the power vacuum it already created has resulted in a very strange situation with Baltic and Finnic pagans competing for the area.

https://i.imgur.com/BZFaNPe.jpg?1

After its decade-long and ultimately unsuccessful war of subjugation against Italy, Khazaria faced its first real wave of fragmentation, resulting in various tribes splitting off and somewhat upsetting the power balance in the area. The Khaganate still has no real competitors, though, and will probably recover its losses soon.

https://i.imgur.com/vW1uDyR.jpg?1
I just assumed Kaisarios had gotten the Necronomicon event earlier in life, since he had both the Scholarship focus and the Lunatic trait. :smalltongue:

Ended up rambling a bit about our tax income, because NUMBERS :smallbiggrin: and also because, c'mon, that's ridiculous.

Oh, and as some of you may have noticed, many heraldries in Ireland (and West Africa) are bugged and only display as pure black, but at least those areas aren't particularly relevant for us.

[Rockphed]

Hmmm, so what is your next step? Sicily is a fairly small kingdom, so you might be able to form it in the near future. On the other hand, forming the kingdom of Greece might be nice. If the entire empire hadn't converted to Judaism, you might have been able to throw off the invaders, but I don't think you will be able to manage it now.

[SilverLeaf167]

Hmmm, so what is your next step? Sicily is a fairly small kingdom, so you might be able to form it in the near future. On the other hand, forming the kingdom of Greece might be nice. If the entire empire hadn't converted to Judaism, you might have been able to throw off the invaders, but I don't think you will be able to manage it now.

Forming Sicily is indeed my next goal. Once I have a kingdom, any kingdom, I can push my courtiers' claims on some duchies in Greece and form that much faster, too. You're right on that other point: at this stage it's better to conquer the Empire from within until I'm the only vassal left. :smallbiggrin:

[Rockphed]

Forming Sicily is indeed my next goal. Once I have a kingdom, any kingdom, I can push my courtiers' claims on some duchies in Greece and form that much faster, too. You're right on that other point: at this stage it's better to conquer the Empire from within until I'm the only vassal left. :smallbiggrin:

How close are you to forming Sicily? I count you as having 6 provinces, but Sicily has at least 16. 3 provinces without holy wars might be a bit hard.

[IthilanorStPete]

Forming Sicily is indeed my next goal. Once I have a kingdom, any kingdom, I can push my courtiers' claims on some duchies in Greece and form that much faster, too. You're right on that other point: at this stage it's better to conquer the Empire from within until I'm the only vassal left. :smallbiggrin:

When you form Sicily, you should rename it Magna Graecia (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magna_Graecia) (or Megale Hellas) to reflect its true heritage. :smalltongue:

[Flickerdart]

Wait, shouldn't the new guy be Duke of Sibir? What happened to that?

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #8: The Dashing Despot

April 998

The new 37-year old Doux Romanos is at least as talented as his late father, and less mad, but definitely has his own vices too. Side effects of his avid socializing and partying include a bad tendency to eat and drink far too much and share spiteful rumors behind people's backs, incapable of fully trusting even his close allies, as friendly as they may be. Still, he is typically seen as a rather pleasant and competent lord, even if he doesn't always get along with some petty Mayors who like to think they're proper nobles.

https://i.imgur.com/Rd4a3ZC.jpg?1

His wife Viviana can sometimes be unnecessarily vicious and deceitful, but her persona is still dominated by her outstanding charisma and youthful physique (wink wink). She has born Athens three heiresses – Valyria, Alexeia and Valeria – and one heir, Theodotos, who was a near vegetable in life and died a sad toddler. Romanos hopes that she'll have another son soon enough, for a woman in power is always likely to cause trouble for the realm.

https://i.imgur.com/2X1WYX0.jpg?1

Khagan Kundaciq, quickly growing more bearable after a rocky start and legitimately concerned for his vassals despite his limited understanding of justice, offers Romanos the position of Steward, formerly held by Kaisarios. At this point, one could say that the Skleroi's long struggle for Greek freedom has transformed from a fight against the Khagans to a fight against the establishment, so he has no trouble accepting; at this point, it's hard to deny that the reign of the Baranjar Clan has been much more prosperous and pleasant than that of the late Makedons, even if Athens is still fated to resist these infidels.

https://i.imgur.com/G7BQFhF.jpg?1

In December 999, Romanos decides to organize a grandiose feast to celebrate the 1000th year since the birth of Jesus Christ! Of course, it is also a ploy to garner favor with his vassals while slapping those Jewish traitors in the face, which is a nice bonus. He is dead set on making it the greatest party Athens has seen in quite a while, and the Duchy has money to spend anyway, so he pulls out all the stops. Only those few grumpy upstarts dare refuse his gracious invitation, bringing a parade of 33 various lords, ranging from Mayor to Baron to Count, and their merry retinues into the city!

https://i.imgur.com/po4mwen.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/i55ydNH.jpg?1

The party is somewhat interrupted when the pregnant Duchess Viviana goes into labor and gives birth to a healthy boy, a new heir for Athens! This, of course, is just another reason for celebration, and his birth at such a time is seen as a sign of future greatness. He is christened Kaisarios II, in memory of the greatest Doux of Athens to ever live!
...or that's what Romanos calls his father, anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/L6ICVpe.jpg?1

The somewhat late Christmas Feast is ultimately quite a success, staying in the Athenians' collective memory for decades to come.

https://i.imgur.com/zUMsA1E.jpg?1

Later that year, the Khagan declares his intent to add Venezia to the Empire, where it belongs. It is unlikely that the Most Serene Republic can resist the Imperial armies for very long, though their army is rather strong and they may have a fighting chance if they decide to adopt defensive positions on their protected islets.

https://i.imgur.com/VsvhBI2.jpg?1

But no, they decide to go on the offensive and split their army into multiple divisions on entirely separate landmasses, as is the only logical way to defend your meager lands against a much larger opponent.

https://i.imgur.com/ZsJjOyu.jpg?1

Romanos had intended to sit by and let the Venetians seal their own doom, but as they attack the lands of his vassal Count of Catanzaro, he is honor-bound to defend him. The Khagan has no trouble taking the unprotected Republic while Romanos crushes half of their whole army.

https://i.imgur.com/ZHjKxij.jpg?1

The Doge succumbs and one of the richest cities in all of Europe, coincidentally with one of the largest Jewish ghettos, falls to Judaism. Its disappearance from the market is a noticeable blow on the economy of the Eastern Mediterranean.

https://i.imgur.com/HQpcAYK.jpg?1

The entranced Doukes of the Empire once again watch idly by and even encourage the Khagan as he once again tightens the Imperial laws and bans internal warfare. This complicates Romanos' plans quite a bit, and the Khagan has really gotten on his bad side lately, so he starts plotting to hopefully repeal this moronic change. However, the Khagan confronts him directly and makes him cease such treason, appealing to his reputation as a honest and honorable man.

https://i.imgur.com/3E1LqSF.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/VvR397R.jpg?1

Sheltered by his new rights, the Khagan even has the absolute nerve to strip the Ecumenical Patriarch himself of his earthly holdings! This is a humiliating coup de grâce against the already-faltering Orthodox Church, only remaining alive in Athens, Georgia and assorted minor Counties; and the hearts of most Imperial peasants, of course, but unfortunately they don't have much sway in politics.

https://i.imgur.com/WL3mOmL.jpg?1

Viviana dies of illness in 1003, but at the age of 42 Romanos can't really use his predecessors' excuse and is coerced into remarrying. With very convenient timing, a party from Charolais, France, happens to visit his court and introduce him to the count's sister Sarrazine, a very charming young woman almost as intelligent as Romanos himself. They hit it off much better than you'd expect from a middle-aged Greek and a teenage Frenchwoman. Rather than going for a probably rather useless alliance, Romanos decides to grab this chance and ask for her hand in marriage, gaining a much more interesting and helpful wife if nothing else.

https://i.imgur.com/ZL4fi4y.jpg?1

Frustrated with the Khagan putting a stop to his conquests when they were so close to an important milestone, Romanos engages in a foolhardy war against the entirety of Khazaria just for their piddly half of Cyprus. Though the island has legitimate strategic value, his war is borne from catharsis at least as much as actual practicality.

https://i.imgur.com/22kDxvr.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/X0NXTfe.jpg?2

The initial landing goes well, Cyprus being too isolated to receive any reinforcements from the rest of Khazaria, but Limisol is very well fortified and its occupation takes ages. Romanos would rather not rush it and waste his strength, though, anticipating his future battles against the horse lords with some anxiety. With its small and pitiful navy, Khazaria is only able to send very small armies to Cyprus, allowing Athens to crush them one at a time.

After occupying Cyprus, the armies are shipped to Crimea to fight the relatively large army of 5 000 stationed there. The battle is won through overwhelming numbers, but in Athens tragedy strikes as Doux Romanos 'the Drunkard' sleeps away at the relatively young age of 45 in June 1006. Only reigning for 8 years, he is seen as much more nondescript than his famous father, whose reign is retrospectively already being treated as a golden age. Another regency awaits Athens as 6-year old Kaisarios II inherits the Duchy, hopefully emulating his great namesake once he comes of age.

https://i.imgur.com/LgH54C6.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/G6L2Y55.jpg?1

Long live Kaisarios Skleros, second of his name, Doux of Athens and Dyrrachion, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika, Chalkidike, Euboia, Napoli and Malta, Liege Lord of Salerno, Benevento and Catanzaro!

[forgot to screenshot, oops]

Anthemios, Romanos' favorite steward, will serve as Regent.

https://i.imgur.com/lbsZnmd.jpg?1

Marshal Laurentios, a Skleros bastard, will tutor the boy; while he isn't too happy about his forced fosterling, he is a good man at heart, and while it may be hard at first and there will surely be many misunderstandings and shenanigans, finally making him lash out after having his big day ruined, which will lead to little Kaisarios running away and Laurentios realizing he's slowly grown fond of the little boy and saving the day after realizing it was his own inner demons he had to defeat, they'll probably get along just fine.

https://i.imgur.com/LN7RviN.jpg?1

The war continues unimpeded, news of the Doux's death not even reaching the front for a few weeks. After a few more easy battles, the war is won and the entirety of Cyprus is once again Greek! Now only if something could be done about those Muslims...

https://i.imgur.com/zQNIdVP.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/LokMZD4.jpg?1

Speaking of Muslims, most Athenians expect a period of peace now that there's a little boy in power, but the late Romanos' secret plan suddenly comes to light: he'd sent the Chancellor to claim rightful ownership of Antioch, a great trading city and holy place on the coast near Cyprus! However, such matters of war are for the Doux to decide, so the documents are hidden away to be revealed to him when he's older.

https://i.imgur.com/L5y2Eqs.jpg?1

Khagan Kundaciq dies of illness, leaving the throne to his son Kundaciq II. This situation has many parallels with Athens' current state, what with the names and regencies and whatnot. There isn't much to be said about the young man, and even less pleasant.

https://i.imgur.com/zY1jDSc.jpg?1

It is unclear whether the Doukes legitimately dislike this change of ruler of if they just see an opportunity, but two years later they spring up in revolt for the installation of an all new government system! Their proposed arrangement somewhat imitates the ancient Roman Republic, giving the Doukes the right to elect their Khagan (or most likely Basileus) from their midst. This would literally revolutionize the Imperial system, but even though many of his subjects are anxious to join, Kaisarios II takes no side in the conflict, being only a young boy. It's quite an important event to just be watching from the sidelines...

https://i.imgur.com/7RTQ1Hu.jpg?1

That doesn't mean the young Doux has nothing to do, though. He's definitely inherited much of his father and grandfather's great intellect, already being learned enough at the age of 10 to have theological arguments with heretical stray lambs and convert them right back to the true faith. He spends most of his time around Laurentios, watching him handle the levies and fortifications in Malta – which he was granted as a County - or just represent his young ward in personal matters. Despite his initial distaste for the job, Laurentios has grown to like it and the boy, and does his best to be a good foster father.

https://i.imgur.com/iPXKzVv.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/aYsSm9Z.jpg?1

The rebellion's chances of winning this war are based on their ability to regroup and organize their troops against the Khagan's superior numbers. Of course, as experience has shown several times, ambitious ragtag rebels not led by a Skleros are capable of no such thing, and this revolution is crushed in a little less than two years.

Shortly after reaching majority – becoming a seemingly rather competent ruler – Khagan Kundaciq II repeals his father's increase of Imperial authority, perhaps as a sign of peace to the rebels. Ungodly infidels work in mysterious ways...

https://i.imgur.com/NXjSPz2.jpg?1

He also declares a holy war against the Kingdom of Italy, trying to conquer the Duchy of Apulia, the Kingdom's last holdings in the southern parts of the peninsula. Once again, many Athenians would like to participate, since they've had their eyes on that little Duchy for a while now and it'd be much easier to grab from within the Empire, but the Doux is still a child and the Khagan can probably handle it anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/2H8aDuQ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/u0jEpux.jpg?1

The war ends up succeeding, cleaning up the Empire's borders quite a bit. The Athenians wait anxiously to see how the Khagan distributes these new lands, as it'll effect the Duchy's expansion; however, he seems to want to keep those three Counties for himself, for whatever reason.

https://i.imgur.com/JL6hDSe.jpg?1

The Pope himself answers in kind: 33 years have passed since the last wildly unsuccessful Crusade for Greece, so it's about time for a new one! However, the great Catholic lords of Europe are as divided as ever, so he probably won't get much help this time either, though the various Knights may cause some trouble. This offense's weakness is a good thing for Athens, which has little to gain and plenty to lose from the Crusade's success. Though Kaisarios II hasn't yet come of age, he's already 15, and this particular war concerns Athens directly anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/ZBSpHEn.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/lOsE2P9.jpg?1

The levies gather in Taranto and Laurentios, the best general in the realm, takes the lead. He takes Kaisarios with him, showing him the realities of war while keeping him out of harm's way. As the Papal and Knightly armies are currently occupying mountainous Benevento, he decides to march straight to Rome in hopes of luring them into more favorable territory; if not, well, they're abandoning their holiest of capitals.

https://i.imgur.com/q9yzSvA.jpg?1

The enemy pays him no mind, making his plan a success anyway, especially as he manages to intercept a large division of the Hospitaller Knights' unprepared reinforcements.

https://i.imgur.com/zFog7BF.jpg?1

Truly, Kaisarios II himself is a man grown by now, and a skilled one at that. While Laurentios was a diligent mentor who taught him all he knew about proper behavior in life, politics and especially military leadership, he wasn't perfect, using his position for personal gain and giving the Doux something of a bad example. However, it truly is no problem, as Kaisarios II may already be one of the army's most skilled commanders at age 16, though he prefers to follow from the rear for now. He does stutter a bit when talking, but Laurentios insists that it just adds a nice beat to his voice.

https://i.imgur.com/1R0DpNa.jpg?1

Multiple enemy armies just march by, dead set on Constantinople, while Athens' army rampages through the Holy City. For 51-year old Laurentios, the thrill and bad hygiene of war are the last straw, dying in his pavilion and leaving the army in Kaisarios II's capable hands. Indeed, the Pope finally decides to give up, just like his predecessor five papal conclaves back, returning to his ransacked estates in Rome.

https://i.imgur.com/rt3o0mE.jpg?1

At peace once again, Kaisarios II enacts his will and duty to get married. Quite a bit like his father, through random chance, he ends up with a Dutch girl named Frida, sister of a countess and lovely in every way.

https://i.imgur.com/ApsFBcO.jpg?1

However, he has other things to think of than his new wife: the last couple generations of Skleroi have all been aiming for the same thing, and all his childhood Laurentios was talking about how it's his destiny to finally fulfill that goal: he shall be a King! King of Sicily, to be more precise: Kaisarios II already rules most of the mainland, in addition to the island fortress of Malta; all it will take for him to be recognized as the true lord of the region is a solid foothold on the island of Sicily proper. In fact, he just happens to hold a document very clearly stating his rights to the County of Siracusa, definitely grounds for an ”involuntary transmission of loyalty”.

https://i.imgur.com/aNhVfK6.jpg?1

The enemy army is summarily crushed and the desired area occupied. After a few scaled walls and raided towns, the war is won!

https://i.imgur.com/RizqMki.jpg?1

The fertile land is granted to Count Konstas of Malta, son of the great Laurentios, who really deserves something better than that barren rock. The more important subject, however, is addressed by Kaisarios II in the speech accompanying his famed Edict of Malta, given to all his vassals on the eponymous island on the 6th of March, 1019:



”My loyal Athenians;

You are the last true faithfuls of the world. The East Roman Empire, which my great grandfather Doux Kallinikos Skleros proclaimed extinct in his famous but ultimately futile rally many decades ago, used to be the true heartland and bastion of the Eastern Orthodoxy. However, following the grievous fall of Constantinople to the Khazars – truly the saddest day of the last century – it has been slowly replaced, in Imperial law and in people's hearts, by that Hebrew faith you all know so well by now. These Jews from the steppes have now ruled us Greeks for exactly 70 years; today is the anniversary of that great injustice.

Bulgaria has embraced the Catholic schism; Georgia has fallen to Judaism. I wasn't exaggerating; the Jews have even corrupted and converted every single Doux within this mighty 'Khaganate' of theirs, making Athens the very last bastion of our once so magnificent Church. Though the Ecumenical Patriarch still remains in Constantinople, he is but a powerless figurehead, a helpless puppet of the infidel Khagan Kundaciq.

I know that many of you have doubted your righteous faith at one point or another, and I do not blame you for it, for it is difficult to remain trusting in such difficult times. However, you have all seen the error in your ways and returned to the right path. The other Doukes have not. They are guilty of grand treason against their people, against their faith and against their one true Lord.

Though we are Greeks, and Greece is where our true home will always be, all of you know that in the recent decades our eyes have been fixed on Sicily, that ancient colony of our people. Now, starting today, we have gained all the proof we need of Athens' divine right to reign in Southern Italy. The court, and our hearts, will remain in the Cradle of Civilization, but in order to elevate ourselves among the unholy rabble who are our Jewish 'peers', we must become something more. For God's will to be returned to the world, a mere Duchy among many is not enough! We need a new crown, a new Patriarch! You may hear people calling me Khan, in complete awe of the invaders' ways and titles, but do know that I am your King! Now Sicily, tomorrow Greece, one day the Empire reborn!

For ours is the Kingdom of Sicily, and Sicily is the Kingdom of God, and I am King Kaisarios the First! Amen!

https://i.imgur.com/M7GSPgE.jpg?1

This speech and the reaction it received make a great impression on the loyal vassals of King Kaisarios. His inner circle, however, knows that his religious zeal wasn't really anywhere near this fervid, nor does he hate the Khagan that much. It was most likely nothing but a way to rouse the crowd. It did work, however! The Kingdom of Sicily is acknowledged inside and outside the Empire, strengthening Kaisarios' position as its indisputably strongest lord. He wasn't technically the first to proclaim himself a royal, that honor belonging to the late Queen Anthousa of Taurica, but her realm was and still is far less powerful than Sicily.

Kaisarios receives the divine blessing of the newly installed Autocephalous Patriarch of Sicily, the final sign of his rule's legitimacy. Thus begins a new chapter in the history of Greece, hopefully a pleasant one. Though a Kingdom is a prize in itself, Kaisarios also had more practical goals in mind: among other things, he is now allowed to have Doukes serving him as vassals, opening up new venues of much faster expansion. Of course, if he wishes to be a good and respected King, Kaisarios must pay more mind to his judgments and the rightful treatment of his subjects.

https://i.imgur.com/QiQ8tMr.jpg?1

That being said, Kaisarios soon puts these new privileges to use, declaring war to push his distant cousin Symmachos' claim on the neighboring Duchy of Achaia, on the condition that he swear fealty to Sicily once the war is won. The enemy's array of allies makes it a doubly appropriate reminder of Kaisarios' majesty!

https://i.imgur.com/PouvyG0.jpg?1

Indeed, Sicily's massive and competently led army makes mincemeat of any enemy it finds. Her capital seized and levies skewered, Duchess Apollonia of Achaia concedes defeat in less than a year. Three quarters of the Peloponnesian peninsula are now ruled by a vassal of Sicily, the last quarter being conquered shortly afterwards.

https://i.imgur.com/2wOCjAT.jpg?1

Personally leading the mighty Cataphract cavalry in their world-famous charges, Kaisarios has many good opportunities to convince himself and others of his great courage!

https://i.imgur.com/hsPRBQq.jpg?1

Frida bears Kaisarios a beautiful prince, Staurakios, who will start to display telltale signs of that hereditary Skleros talent in a few years.

[another missed screenshot, dayum]

No more war follows for a few years, as the King is waiting for his armies to recover and for his Chancellor to report in with good news. However, even in peacetime, he must keep his body and his mind sharp! Kaisarios is almost obsessive when it comes to practice, but nobody really has the guts to spar with him. Only one man, a commander and Mayor from Dyrrachion, is foolhardy enough to try, getting himself thrown on the ground in seconds but earning the King's respect, as well as a footnote in his memoirs.

https://i.imgur.com/M38ueo6.jpg?1
[Wrong name shown for some reason]

https://i.imgur.com/tDkT9QB.jpg?1

Of course, Kaisarios also bears a great interest in history and the theoretical side of warfare, both of which just increase in importance as one rises in rank! He has garnered quite a wide understanding of the various tactics and strategies used in the past and to this day, from the mundane to the outrageous. He wonders what it'd take to pull a fleet of galleys across Greece.

https://i.imgur.com/BQrAxDO.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/vMoQJc8.jpg?1

Kaisarios engages in some more casual conquest in Sicily, now demonstrably his rightful domain. He continues to prove himself in battle, reaching one crushing victory after another while his own men take minimal losses; not only is his infectious bravery tempered with calculating wisdom, his intricate knowledge of the whole Empire's geography and mastery of logistics make his proud army the fastest of all. There are many who dub him the greatest commander in the Empire.

https://i.imgur.com/bGStjFc.jpg?1

In 1026, word spreads that King Erich 'the Fat' of Germany has been beating and even tried to murder the Queen, Alexeia Skleros, sister of Kaisarios! Now a King in his own right, he is outraged by this grave crime against the entire dynasty, and challenges the dishonorable Erich to a proper duel! He feels no pity for the one-armed German; it is not a matter of glory, but honor!

https://i.imgur.com/DTmBbsK.jpg?1

Perhaps harboring suicidal intent or just trying to keep his reputation, Erich almost surprises Kaisarios by actually accepting his challenge. The King of Sicily isn't nervous, of course, he'd just expected such a maimed pig to hide in the catacombs or something. He immediately embarks for Germany, vowing to save his sister's honor before her very eyes.

https://i.imgur.com/Grr09cp.jpg?1

Of course, Erich 'the Fat' stands no chance against the greatest warrior in Greece, even when said greatest warrior holds back and toys around just to humiliate him further. Finally striking for the first time, Kaisarios defeats him with a single effortless swipe and walks away nonchalantly, leaving him rolling and swearing vengeance in the courtyard, with all his courtiers watching. He will think thrice before touching Alexeia again, and a new chapter is added to the saga of Kaisarios 'the Wise', a living legend. The King dies of his infected wounds, old and new, just a year later.

https://i.imgur.com/75L0W60.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/sa7RAAo.jpg?1

Hopefully that legend won't turn into a Greek tragedy; Kaisarios' bastard cousin discovers conclusive proof that Kaisarios' dear Frida has been cheating on him with an Achaian count! This greatly strains their marital bliss, obviously, though the King does his best not to make a public number out of it... but at least she doesn't seem to be pregnant.

https://i.imgur.com/5JbLsPV.jpg?1

Kaisarios can't even bring himself to duel the Count; a fat King is one thing, but fighting a blind old man would be outright cruel. An adulterous wife is a lesser blow to Kaisarios' honor than that.

https://i.imgur.com/cGL2wqj.jpg?1

Khagan Kundaciq II 'the Holy' dies of smallpox, putting his son Mënümarót on the throne. He's barely an adult, and relatively nice as a person but much more naive and meek, which aren't very good traits for a great ruler to have.

https://i.imgur.com/IFl6kYy.jpg?1

Over the years, Sicily's diligent Chancellors have managed to reinforce Kaisarios' rightful claims on numerous Greek provinces. In 1030, he declares war on Doux Germanos of Epirus, claiming four Counties at once, all in mainland Greece, including the entirety of the de jure Duchy. The Doux himself is rotting in the Khagan's dungeon for some long since forgotten reason, and nobody but his own vassals are willing to defend his lands.

https://i.imgur.com/2wyVwZa.jpg?1

Of course, such a short and simple war isn't really famous for its battles, but for its consequences. After conquering those contested holdings, King Kaisarios of Sicily controls the entirety of the mainland Greek peninsula, not to forget Cyprus, which the Skleroi so bravely rescued from Islam. On these grounds, he is entirely justified in styling himself the King of Greece, a title the Skleroi have dreamed of for so long! The 'Twin Kingdoms of the South' are rapidly growing in world-wide fame due to their great wealth and prestige.

https://i.imgur.com/EM2ICYA.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Lk6U3ve.jpg?1

Finally, for the first time in history, Greece has been revived as a proper state; in one sense of the word, at least. The Twin Kingdoms are still formally subservient to the Khagan of East Rome, which takes part of their levies and restricts their political freedom. As the Skleros domain grows, this vassalage is strained further and further. King Kaisarios 'the Wise' thus proves himself worthy of his nickname by summoning the Grand Congress of Athens of 1032.



”It is the second time in my reign that I call you all together, and this occasion is just as important as the last one, if only slightly less pompous in tone. Once again, as you all know, based on the celebrations all around the land, we have united the glorious Kingdom of Greece! The flame of Christendom burns ever brighter as our sermon of steel is heard across the seas and Judaism retreats back towards the east where it came from! This evangelion of the Greeks will create the Kingdom of God anew, and we will prove ourselves as his chosen people! Even though the nobles have betrayed their Lord for promises of power, their subjects remain ever faithful and await their delivery from evil, which we shall provide! Ahem...

Of course, for us to fulfill these divine ambitions, there's a practical side of things as well. Indeed, I am not here to make another speech; I am here to let you make yours. Today, or tomorrow, or over the next month if the food just lasts, we will decide the immediate future of our Twin Kingdoms.

Should we finally secede from the Empire, fighting our way to independence and completely liberating ourselves from the infidel Khagans' influence? It will be an arduous battle, and we will have to gather all the force we can muster, but with God's blessing, we cannot fail!

Even more ambitiously, rather than abandoning our less-than-faithful brethren to the Jews' mercy, we could strive for the Imperial Throne ourselves and recreate it as a pious Greek nation. Outside our own borders, the Empire is full of these infidels, and we would be left with tons of political package, but with time we could save their souls and return them to the true faith, just as the Khazars lured them away from it.

Of course, it's up to you to decide whether it might be better to remain within the Empire, allowing us to grow in power under the Khagan's unsuspecting nose and make sure the Twin Kingdoms are ready for whatever the future brings. What we settle on today is our immediate plan, not necessarily the ultimate destiny of Greece, and while vassalage is not a final solution, believe me, there is a great difference between patience and cowardice.

We have gathered under God's watchful eye, under His blessing, and your will is His. So, let the voice of God be heard in Greece once again!”



[[Give your argument (or just plain vote) in the thread!]]
Though the Twin Kingdoms keep centralizing power to themselves, the Empire itself is definitely not waning. The Khagan has continued to expand rapidly into the Balkans and beyond, leaving Croatia and Bulgaria as nothing but rump states while connecting part of the Crimean holdings to Constantinople. While the south-western parts are pretty much united under King Kaisarios, the rest of the realm is divided as ever, and the Khagan probably prefers it that way.

https://i.imgur.com/6r86Hpc.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/MGbr14h.jpg?1

On the Isles, the Scots have expanded quite far south into Anglo-Saxon regions, while England's own conquests have been much more restricted. However, the latter's lands are much more rich and populous, so they're still the stronger of the two if it comes to that. Burgundy and France have established small colonies in Wales and Ireland.

https://i.imgur.com/M8WdgSi.jpg?1

Northern Europe remains a confusing jumble. Denmark and Norway have accepted Christ and stepped closer to true civilization, but Sweden and Finland are fragile as ever.

https://i.imgur.com/dMaoFEN.jpg?1

Two regional powers, Rus and Ruthenia, have emerged in Eastern Europe, ruled by a Suomenusko Mordvin and a Catholic Pomeranian respectively. However, while Rus seems relatively stable, Ruthenia is likely to go under once again.

https://i.imgur.com/Ps577b5.jpg?1

The Muslim world has seen quite a bit of change, with the Akin dynasty dethroning the Abbasids and reducing them to mere Sultans. This had led to some fracturing in Arabia and especially Northern Africa.

https://i.imgur.com/ly9d5pB.jpg?2

https://i.imgur.com/MBeyvAt.jpg?1

In addition, the Umayyad Sultanate, that quiet giant of the west, has been split between two brothers into Andalusia and Mauretania, causing plenty of internal unrest. The Umayyads haven't directly threatened Christendom in ages, but it is still good to see at least one Muslim power collapse.

https://i.imgur.com/8OiWJto.jpg?1
While writing this, I often think that I must look like a huge anti-Semite, but keep in mind that I'm just doing my best to roleplay an alternate history as a character who actually has a halfway legitimate reason for it. Dan Avidan is my role-model. :smallwink: Nothing against Muslims, either. Wife-beating Germans can rot in hell though.

I'm going to build my own kingdom, with icons and patriarchs! (Don't let the mental image of Kaisarios stuttering (or even better, beatboxing) constantly throughout these speeches bother you too much. :smalltongue:)

Our first real vote! Woot!

This line of Genius rulers is amazing, and I really wouldn't blame you for getting suspicious, but all you can ever really have is my almost exaggeratedly solemn-sounding word.

Also, uh... are you here to see concrete progress or just enjoy my writing? 'Cuz I'm not always sure if I put either too much or too little description into irrelevant stuff that doesn't affect the bigger picture at all. I also dare assume nobody has any reason to really dislike longer chapters. This particular chapter is one of my favorites so far, though, finally having such big changes and character flavor.


When you form Sicily, you should rename it Magna Graecia (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magna_Graecia) (or Megale Hellas) to reflect its true heritage. :smalltongue:

I kinda considered that, or maybe Sikelia or something, but ultimately it felt sort of clumsy. In my mind, "King Kaisarios of Greece and Sicily" just fits together better. If I'd only had Sicily, I'd probably have done something different, but forming Greece was so close I decided not to. If I become some emperor one day, I'll consider at least renaming my duchies with their Greek alternatives.


Wait, shouldn't the new guy be Duke of Sibir? What happened to that?

I, uh, stealthily got rid of it. It wasn't a great idea in immediate retrospect, but it had no reason to be there and was causing nothing but trouble. Sorry? :smallredface:

[Cristo Meyers]

Independence! Let the so-called Khagan fear our stuttering king!



Also, uh... are you here to see concrete progress or just enjoy my writing? 'Cuz I'm not always sure if I put either too much or too little description into irrelevant stuff that doesn't affect the bigger picture at all. I also dare assume nobody has any reason to really dislike longer chapters. This particular chapter is one of my favorites so far, though, finally having such big changes and character flavor.

This is probably the biggest challenge in a CK2 LP: balancing everything that's going on. I know I had troubles when I did the last chapters of the 2nd Succession Game. Your current balance is just fine and everything's really enjoyable.

[OrcusMcP]

Three hails for King Kaisarios! Saviour of Greece, Defender of the Faith and Titan of the Mediterranean!

If my small, humble wisdom is anything to Your Grace, then let us finally cast aside Rome. Greece has been wearing the bones of a dead empire for 70 years, for a Jewish Khaganate is not the Roman Empire, even as they proclaim it to be so. With Greece and Sicily, we control some of the richest and most fertile lands in all of Europa. Let us become a beacon unto which all righteous men may guide their way, and restore the ancient light of our ancestors. The might of Agamemnon, the wisdom of Plato, the genius of Archimedes, all were Greek and all can once again be names to speak proudly.

My Lords and Ladies, my King, it is time to Secede.

EDIT: Your writing and story are great so far, keep it up! One thing you may want to do, though, especially for longer chapters, is give the time frame for each chapter. It may help us gauge how long a particular chapter might be.

[Eldan]

Hrm.

I'd say stay in the Empire. Continue to more or less quietly eat more duchies and add them to glorious Greece. There is no reason to fight the entire jewish empire if we can instead fight them piece by piece.

You say that the nobles are all Jews. What about the population? Do they retain their faith?

[Sallera]

My King, my fellow Doukes, as all of you, I too celebrate the rise of the Kingdom of Greece from the ashes of old. It is truly an occasion that shall be immortalized in the tales of our children, our children's children, and, I am sure, eventually well beyond the borders of the Empire. We all have reason to be proud, being a part of our King's great accomplishments.

But we must not be overproud. We may not all be willing, we may harbour doubt and resentment in our hearts at the idea, but we are still a part of something greater. Even fallen to heresy, the Empire is the axle around which the world turns. Should we shatter that, and throw all into chaos while the centre collapses in upon itself, and vultures rush in from all sides? We have built a legacy of creation; who here wishes to see that turn to destruction? No, my King, my fellow Doukes, I urge caution. Let us remain within the Empire for now. Better the Khazar we know than the Arabian we do not. Already the Khagan courts our King's favour, wary though he is. In time, we will be the right hand of Imperial authority, the sword without which he is impotent. Let us build a while longer; if we wish to become the new centre of the world, then we must have more than a foundation, we must have walls and towers grand enough to awe all who gaze upon them, that they might bow their heads in shame and turn away at the first touch of envy and desire, knowing what we hold is too great and holy for their hands.

That, my King, my fellow Doukes, that is when the Empire will be obsolete, and we may turn to the Khagan when he asks for our sword, and tell him he may have it in his heart or not at all.

[SilverLeaf167]

Great stuff everyone, keep it coming! I'll probably wait at least a day, though I'm pleasantly surprised to see everyone leap to action so quickly. I'm pretty anxious to continue myself.


You say that the nobles are all Jews. What about the population? Do they retain their faith?
Ah yes, I thought I included that somewhere, but now that I look, apparently not; I'll modify the speech. The majority of the original Empire is still Orthodox: the Khagan's initial settling brought Judaism to some areas mostly in Anatolia, and most importantly Constantinople, but after that the situation hasn't really changed. I suppose Judaism's religious authority isn't especially high, since otherwise we'd definitely be seeing more conversions. The Khagan's new conquests in the Balkans are mostly Catholic, but our own Italian holdings have long since started to embrace the true faith.

[mythmonster2]

How can there be a choice? This Empire is rotten, a mere facade put up by our steppe overlords. Perhaps our uprising will inspire our fellow Greeks to cast away their heathenry and throw these men back into the steppes they came from. We must secede, for the good of all the souls in this Empire. But first, it's obvious there's a bit of housekeeping to attend to. How can we call ourselves the Kingdom of Sicily if we do not even hold the entire island? Let us at least take that, rightfully, if only to save ourselves the trouble of having to take them later.

[Eldan]

Then I say: let us not secede. We may cast aside the Empire, but in doing so, we would abandon its people. It is our duty as the last noble bastion of the faith to free people who are true Christians and true Romans, not let them languish under the opression of the Jew and the Barbarian.
We shall drive them from these lands, one by one, even as we are their peers. We shall stand defiant in the false emperor's council and look him in the eye as we whet the dagger that shall take his heart.

[Tentreto]

In the spirit of Kailinkos, who witnessed the fall of the eastern empire, we must secede to free the Greeks, and thus further weaken the infidels, who will be more open to crusades and warfare.

Edit: Shadow of the Acropolis seems much more apt due to the heresy and utter turmoil than before. Athens may be the defacto seat of the true Church.

[Rockphed]

I'm looking at this and trying to decide what will be the most fun long term. Our goal is to see this campaign through to the end of Crusader kings, and then through to the end of Europa Universalis. To that end, we don't want to blob up too much now without a plan for spinning off states that like us, are willing to be our allies, but aren't beholden to us to exist.


I vote to secede. We need to find space to grow outside the shadow of the Khagan.

[SilverLeaf167]

I'm looking at this and trying to decide what will be the most fun long term. Our goal is to see this campaign through to the end of Crusader kings, and then through to the end of Europa Universalis. To that end, we don't want to blob up too much now without a plan for spinning off states that like us, are willing to be our allies, but aren't beholden to us to exist.


True, and I definitely have to keep that in mind.

I plan not to really expand too much beyond the de jure Empire, apart from some clear-cut goals, like almost definitely restoring the Pentarchy... Italy is probably the furthest I'm willing to wander, but we'll vote on these issues later. Instead, we'll try to spread our blood and faith, getting Orthodox Skleroi (or at least Greeks) on as many thrones as possible, hopefully bringing the Church back from the brink of destruction. If we conquer something we don't want (for either gameplay or narrative reasons), we'll just release it as a sister state. No idea what EU4 will bring, but we'll cross that bridge when we get there... we're about one quarter through CK2, and I'll definitely slow down somewhat from my current pace of one chapter a day :smalltongue: Victoria 2, should we ever reach it, can honestly be fun as almost any kind of country.

[Eldan]

Well, if you can get Eastern Rome together in CKII and the rest of Europe doesn't unite into any really big states, the logical goal would be to reconquer the entire Roman Empire in EUIV. Should be well possible, too.

[Flickerdart]

Importing Rome into EUIV gives you some neat unique Roman ideas, so you should definitely restore the Empire if you can.

[Rockphed]

Importing Rome into EUIV gives you some neat unique Roman ideas, so you should definitely restore the Empire if you can.

While I agree that getting unique ideas is cool, I think the spirit of this game is Greek, not Roman. I actually think we should leave the Empire, create a custom Greek empire (if one doesn't already exist besides Eastern Rome), and expand it to the De Jure boundaries of Eastern Rome, plus the Levant and northern Egypt.

[SilverLeaf167]

SPECIAL #2: Shadows of Mdina (1019)

6th of March, 1019

Kaisarios stepped out of the joyful hall, away from the crowd toasting his name, and onto the balcony. Sighing from exhaustion and relief alike, he leant on the wooden railing and admired this temporary peace. Though it was too dark and too far to actually see, beyond the sea to the north lay his royal realm of Sicily. Malta had a symbolic significance as the shield between Islam and Christendom, though it was also practical for its relative isolation. He'd become intricately familiar with the craggy rock, and especially its capital Mdina - practically one big castle - on his visits with Laurentios. Laurentios... he'd loved the bastard like the father he felt he never truly had. As much as Kaisarios appreciated and studied his predecessors, he'd become an orphan at six, and in his mind he was basically the only Skleros. Those others were just strangers. His parents were both dead, all his other relatives in some distant courts... the best he'd had was his young stepmother Sarrazine who barely spoke any Greek and always felt more than a little awkward around him. It hadn't taken such a bright boy long to notice her discomfort.

King Kaisarios rubbed his temples, wondering how soon he'd get used to the weight of the golden crown. What would Laurentios say right now? ”I like the way it frames your face,” or something along those lines. He'd always been so eager to compliment his liege-turned-ward. Sicily's new Patriarch had looked so pleased with himself, gingerly lowering the crown on his jet black wisps while essentially declaring his own promotion in the process. Of course, a Kingdom in itself is just a bureaucratic title; Kaisarios would have to prove his worth, his right to rule. Though they may call it a divine mandate, it is granted by man, and He is just there to observe for His own entertainment.

Whoever chose that very moment to open the balcony door behind him had very bad timing, narrowly avoiding a reactionary swing from Kaisarios' ceremonial sword. He stopped to look who he'd almost killed and saw the aging steward grasping a detached tuft of his gray beard. ”Anthemios! I...”
What? 'I thought you were here to kill me'? He doubted the clueless Khagans even noticed what was going on inside their realm, but that didn't mean someone else couldn't disagree with his cause, too.
”No, my Dou- I mean, King, it was my own fault. I may not have been raised at court, but I should know by now not to sneak up on thinking men. Especially armed ones,” Anthemios said while gasping for breath. ”Your father was much, much worse. I swear, he'd sometimes lash out at his own shadow...”
”Say no such thing,” Kaisarios said, sheathing his gold-lined sword with clear disdain in his voice.
”Excuse me, my King, I meant no disrespect to your -”
”No, you misunderstand,” he interrupted. ”You've been a diligent servant all my life, and you've never had to grovel before me. That doesn't change just because I happen to be wearing three times as many gemstones as I used to,” Kaisarios explained with a comforting smile.
Before the rattled steward could answer, however, he added: ”Don't spread that around, of course. To my people, I am the King, and I must be strong. Unshakable... Sovereign.”
”O-of course... Kaisarios.”
”That's more like it.”
”It's not what I'm here about, though.”
”Obviously not. You never were one for small talk,” the young sovereign remarked, turning back around to lean on the railing again.

Anthemios gulped audibly. Kaisarios anticipated what he was going to say, but wondered why he was so anxious about it.
”That was... a good speech.”
”Why thank you, I wrote it myself. A lot of time to say nothing at all.”
”Is... Is that really what you think?” the old man wondered, clearly expecting something else.
”Anthemios, the whole court knows I'm not a pious man. I wasn't a pious boy, I wasn't a pious Doux, and I highly doubt that will change now, either. That doesn't mean I don't know how a King should behave, though.”
”And how is that?”
”The way everyone expects him to.”
”That's not... I've served two great Skleroi before you, and I can tell you that they never said any such thing.”

”They were Doukes, not Kings, my dear Anthemios. Do you know what that word means? King?”
Without letting the man answer, he turned around and pushed imposingly close to his face. Anthemios could clearly see something powerful, something majestic radiating from Kaisarios, something that made it hard to treat him like a little boy he'd watched grow up.
The King of Sicily continued: ”A King is not a mere noble with some land under him. A King does not live to serve some higher authority, nothing lesser than God in Heaven. A King,” he pushed ever closer, ”is the highest representative of his people. He should live for the realm, and the realm should live for him; only together can they reach that which all men covet, true paradise on Earth. It may be out of our reach, yet still we must keep going, stretching, trying to grab just a glimpse of it and die happy. That is what a King lives for -”
He pulled away and spread his hands wide. ”- and for the people to do their part, they have to believe in him, much in the same way they believe in God above. I cannot be just a man, I have to be the man. If I am to lead anyone to glory, they have to trust me, do you understand? They have to trust that I can and will fulfill even my grandest promises, so that when push comes to shove, they won't even think to turn to anyone but me. For that higher cause, I sometimes have to say things I don't fully mean, but it doesn't matter as long as I keep my word. No man is perfect, even if he fights for a perfect cause, but that is the appearance I must maintain, for the good of the realm. That, my dear Anthemios, my trusted advisor,” he said while lowering his hands on the steward's shoulders, ”is how a King should act.”

After a few seconds of silence, only broken by the song echoing from within the castle, Kaisarios walked to the door with deliberate weight in his stride.
”A good speech,” the flabbergasted Anthemios managed to spit out.
”I wrote it myself,” Kaisarios mumbled and returned to the feast.

[SilverLeaf167]

Well, if you can get Eastern Rome together in CKII and the rest of Europe doesn't unite into any really big states, the logical goal would be to reconquer the entire Roman Empire in EUIV. Should be well possible, too.


Importing Rome into EUIV gives you some neat unique Roman ideas, so you should definitely restore the Empire if you can.


While I agree that getting unique ideas is cool, I think the spirit of this game is Greek, not Roman. I actually think we should leave the Empire, create a custom Greek empire (if one doesn't already exist besides Eastern Rome), and expand it to the De Jure boundaries of Eastern Rome, plus the Levant and northern Egypt.

I'll probably just try to win the Byzantine throne and then customize it, since it has so many unique events and decisions that would be a shame to lose. :smalltongue: Reforming the Roman Empire is unfortunately right out, both since we've renounced our Roman past and because it would mean way too much blobbing. Once we reach EU4, the latter might not be quite as much of a problem. For now, I like Rockphed's middle road of reclaiming, well, East Rome basically. Mending the Schism might be nice, but that would basically mean no reformation in EU4... unless I manage to mod up something, that is... :smallwink:

[Flickerdart]

I'll probably just try to win the Byzantine throne and then customize it, since it has so many unique events and decisions that would be a shame to lose. :smalltongue: Reforming the Roman Empire is unfortunately right out, both since we've renounced our Roman past and because it would mean way too much blobbing. Once we reach EU4, the latter might not be quite as much of a problem. For now, I like Rockphed's middle road of reclaiming, well, East Rome basically. Mending the Schism might be nice, but that would basically mean no reformation in EU4... unless I manage to mod up something, that is... :smallwink:
You don't need to blob all that much to restore Rome. As I recall, it's just a few counties on top of what you need to mend the Schism.

[OrcusMcP]

You don't need to blob all that much to restore Rome. As I recall, it's just a few counties on top of what you need to mend the Schism.

Not quite, you need full duchies around both Italy and North Africa.

[SilverLeaf167]

Your character must be a Christian (being an Orthodox ruler is not required, neither being of the Greek or Italian culture) in possession of the Byzantine Emperor's title and fully control the following 14 duchies to restore the Roman Empire: Latium, Venice, Ferrara, Sicily, Genoa, Capua, Apulia, Thrace, Antioch, Jerusalem, Alexandria, Athens, Tunis and Croatia.
It's mostly just Italy + Tunis + Pentarchy, but my other point about in-character justification still stands anyway, I suppose.

[Eldan]

Oh, I definitely meant restore ROme in EUIV. Not now.

[Tentreto]

If anything, you could follow the example of Alexander the Great and expand into Asia, somewhat apt for a King who has somehow managed to reclaim an ancient title. In fact, you could destroy the last vestiges of the Roman empire to return to true Greek Nationalism. Though most importantly, you should take control of the holy sites of the empire, to ensure the faith survives.

[SilverLeaf167]

"My companions, after all this debate I think we've certainly reached the conclusion we were looking for. We shall fight for our independence, though it's also clear that we can't go about it too rashly. First, we must make sure to take as many fellow Greeks as possible to freedom with us, and when the time is right, we march for Constantinople! Even if it requires great care and patience, we will not falter in our quest for the restoration of our faith! God wills it!"

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #9: The Sovereign Saint (1032-1066)

Having finally received a concrete answer from his subjects, King Kaisarios sends them back to their courts and starts planning his eventual rebellion. It seems that Queen Rhodanthe of Taurica, that other Kingdom within the Empire, might already be planning her own uprising, but Kaisarios is hesitant to openly reveal his own willingness, for she would surely become overzealous and ruin the whole thing. Besides, her petty realm is a Kingdom only in name, and wouldn't be that much help anyway.

In the next few years, Kaisarios exploits the weakness of his surrounding Doukes to continue his unstoppable rampage across the Greek territories, adding them to his realm under the protection of legal and traditional claims. They're very divided and easy to take in small chunks. Effortlessly trampling armies and castles, he conquers nearly the entire Aegean coast very quickly, and is almost starting to believe his own speeches about divine will and national fate. Infidel landholders are either forced to convert or dragged away into the night.

https://i.imgur.com/SqtSY2P.jpg?1

Another Khagan of Khazaria abandons his tribal ways to settle and found a new Empire in much the same way as the Baranjars did with East Rome. Khagan Nisi Bantu's realm of choice is Bukhara, located across the Caspian Sea at a rich crossroads of trade. The Muslim people of the area are rapidly ”accepting” his faith and culture.

https://i.imgur.com/jUWZMyF.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/1WTiFa1.jpg?1

Prince Staurakios turns 16 in 1037. Unlike Kaisarios, he's had his father's full attention and care for all his life, and has received a very good upbringing as a result. Though not quite as universally talented as the King (and definitely not as handsome), he is a skilled diplomat and commander, likely to become even better with time.

https://i.imgur.com/8sXbfhs.jpg?1

A very peculiar string of succession soon occurs: as it turns out, practically all the men of Queen Frida's family have died of disease or backstabbing, leaving their two Counties in Mâcon and Hainaut, part of Lotharingia, to pass to Staurakios. He is eager to govern these far-away lands and go on such an adventure, and though Kaisarios fears for his safety and hates the idea of his son serving some foreign Duke, he can't do anything to stop him from leaving.

https://i.imgur.com/EFQBOOb.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/mcat1Vm.jpg?1

In October 1038, Kaisarios decides it's the time of truth: he has united his Kingdoms and recovered his forces for the greatest showdown since the Khazar invasion. Khagan Mënümarót must have smelled blood in the water by now. The very heart of the ancient Empire will charge to glory, impale its oppressors and burn their banners to ash! Judaism will tremble and collapse as the forces of Christ himself rise up from their grave! God wills it!

Neither side has any external allies; the most powerful representations of Orthodoxy and Judaism will face each other alone.

https://i.imgur.com/zFpWsYR.jpg?1

King Kaisarios' mighty armies rapidly assemble in Adrianopolis near the enemy capital, arriving by land and sea to fight for their savior. The enemy starts to gather in nearby Thrake, but their scattered troops are no match for the greatest army led by the greatest commander!

https://i.imgur.com/JNw6SxT.jpg?1

The first and possibly decisive battle of the war is easily won: just the initial swarm of arrows is enough to blot out the sun and basically shatter the enemy center, allowing the Cataphracts to charge in and paint their bloody works. No mercy is given to traitors against their people and faith.

https://i.imgur.com/TeyX5kX.jpg?1

The triumphant Kaisarios approaches the walls of Constantinople, crushing underfoot the meager division standing in his way...

https://i.imgur.com/D3716g8.jpg?1

...before making another detour to almost wipe out another. Just after these few battles, the back of the so-called Empire is practically broken, the rest of their men scattered at the borders. They are truly nothing without the Greeks to fight their battles for them.

https://i.imgur.com/KYQy3g6.jpg?1

The zealous Greeks have no patience for long sieges, preferring to smash right through the walls of Constantinople and let Kaisarios hold the baffled Khagan at sword-point while dictating his final terms. Quite attached to his neck, the Jew has no choice but to concede. After but 9 months and 4 proper battles, perhaps the greatest European war in the last century is already decided, King Kaisarios the First of Greece and Sicily reigning supreme! Long live the Glaive of Christ!

https://i.imgur.com/mpZ6rbX.jpg?1

Starting from this 4th of July 1039, he is the now the sovereign leader of a truly independent nation. Of course, this is far from the last of Greece's struggles against the Empire, for there is plenty of land to reclaim, including Constantinople itself as a final price, and it will be slow, but each fight should be easier than the last. When the city is finally claimed one day, perhaps it will be the crown jewel of a true Greek Empire...

https://i.imgur.com/92chhrG.jpg?1

For now, however, he's just the King of Greece and Sicily. Of course, ”just” might not really do it justice, given how rich said lands are.

https://i.imgur.com/2rEe4Ey.jpg?1

Though Greece's future is in conquest, the worst of it should be in the past. For now the nation must recover and make sure it can fully utilize its new-found freedom. Athens' importance as an economical and political center will continue to grow now that it's the one and only capital, so Kaisarios should put more emphasis on ruling and less on warring.

https://i.imgur.com/hoQYuUQ.jpg?1

He does have one immediate conquest in mind, though: Venezia has somehow regained its independence, but is still ruled by a Khazar Jew. Sensing an opportunity to get a head start on the Imperial Reclamation, as many are already calling it, he declares war on the poor sod.

https://i.imgur.com/NNLSkpf.jpg?1

The barely protected city is taken pretty much as soon as the navies can make it there, and the Duke surrenders very quickly.

https://i.imgur.com/1ICe0uP.jpg?1

Kaisarios decides to restore the city to its former status as a Republic in hopes of aiding the whole realm's economy. After ”importing” some rich families from Greece, he allows them to create their own system of Patricians and Doges to rule the renamed Venetia. As a vassal state, the Republic probably won't reach its former glory any time soon, but it's still better than nothing – for both parties.

https://i.imgur.com/HbDiytR.jpg?1

Half a year later, the opportunistic Kaisarios spots another chance too good to miss out on: the Wahid Emirate is at war with the Khagan, exposing their own territory for an easy landing. They hold Antioch, which is a holy site, lost seat of the Pentarchy and rich trade port that Kaisarios happens to hold a decades-old claim on. Now would be a good time to push it and bring great prestige to the Orthodox faith!

https://i.imgur.com/3CwHFfF.jpg?1

Sultan Aarif is leading his men in Cilicia when Kaisarios' mighty phalanxes suddenly appear in Antioch and take it in his trademark head-on style.

https://i.imgur.com/KHhccsa.jpg?1

After occupying the area, Kaisarios engages the Sultan in battle. While the enemy's mix-and-match armies crack easily under the Greeks' well-practiced maneuvers and fearsome cavalry, the conqueror King's insistence on leading from the front is punished as he finally gets wounded in battle for the first time. Of course, a spear in the side is just a slight nuisance for such a man, and will eventually heal in just a month or two.

https://i.imgur.com/KHHoF3r.jpg?1

Even in his wounded state, he manages to project a majestic image while accepting the Muslims' gracious offer of surrender.

https://i.imgur.com/O7L7vU5.jpg?1

Antioch is sacred not only for the Gospel written and the multiple saints buried there, but legend states it is also the place where the Apostles were first called Christians, a milestone in itself. Its importance for pilgrims has surely contributed to its wealth. It will remain under the Greek crown's direct control for now, purely for its religious value of course, and the Church starts spreading its influence. Kaisarios had heard that Muslims were stubborn and hard to convert, but the local nobles at least are happy to do so after just a few friendly ”gifts”.

https://i.imgur.com/Is51A0k.jpg?1

To celebrate such a great victory for Christendom and a big step in the Imperial Reclamation, Kaisarios calls for a grand tournament to be held in Athens, with lords, hedge knights and foolhardy sons from all over the Kingdoms fighting for Christ's honor and their own. Multiple town squares are cleared to host the event, but merchants still cluster around the crowds, while the ruins of an ancient stadium are also being renovated for future use.

https://i.imgur.com/eZ9dPN0.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/88YqLEn.jpg?1

Diverse matches on and off horseback, with and without armor, with and without weapons are spectated by thousands over the weeks. In the end, the winner of the whole tournament is a black horse, an elderly soldier and Marshal of Kaliopolis, Hektorios! He is a massive, muscular man, and predictably popular with the ladies, which he reportedly had plenty of during the games.

https://i.imgur.com/gM8MZGh.jpg?1

Kaisarios, sitting in the best seat of course, is forced to tolerate his childhood bully and old enemy Andronikos' success without a word. Of course, born and raised at the Athenian court and with a long career in the military, he was a rather favorable candidate. Andronikos hasn't forgotten their old rivalry either – though it's not like there's any doubt as to who's ”won” said rivalry - but is polite enough not to make a scene as Kaisarios personally hands him the second price.

[HOW did I miss the ONLY important one of these three]

The winner of the third place is probably the most surprising: Theocharistos, the mediocre Steward of Abydos, a rather shy and quiet man, definitely not a warrior of any kind. Nobody has any idea how he managed to get past the preliminaries, and some suspect foul play, but Kaisarios believes he's truly deserved this reward for his hard work against the odds.

https://i.imgur.com/ICx1hW1.jpg?1

With the competition over, the temporary bleachers are dismantled and the markets reopened. In addition to marking the reconquest of Antioch in the Greeks' memories, the event has brought people together, brought wealth to the city and raised Kaisarios' majesty in the eyes of all. There will definitely have to be more of these.

https://i.imgur.com/EHmfucD.jpg?1

After almost a century of efforts by many rulers and even more priests, the latest generation of Famagusta seems to have pretty much accepted the Orthodox faith as their own. This is a symbolic victory for the Church, if nothing else.

Kaisarios isn't especially thrilled, though. Now that the Kingdoms have stabilized and he's trying to keep them that way, the splendor of conquest is gone. After his recent wounding in the unofficial Crusade for Antioch, many commanders have been implying that the 43-year old King should just govern from Athens. The thing is, governance is deadly dull, deadlier than any polearm between his ribs, and he's really not happy with the situation.

https://i.imgur.com/7C489KC.jpg?1

Queen Frida dies of sickness in 1045. Though she was popular with the rest of the Athens, Kaisarios hadn't particularly cared for her ever since her infidelity was revealed. He doesn't mind remarrying, but will not pick a wife at half-random like he did last time. If he meets someone, alright, but he'll cross that bridge when he gets to it.

https://i.imgur.com/N8Yn0SE.jpg?1

The King craves warfare and an army to lead, and will find his own battles if they don't come to him! Alexandria is one of the wealthiest cities on the Egyptian coast, but also a former seat of the Pentarchy and actually founded by Alexander the Great himself in days of old. It is an obvious next step in the Reclamation, especially as said claims have already been prepared and the Akin Caliphate is especially fragile at the moment due to numerous internal conflicts.

https://i.imgur.com/tc846JV.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/nyWZtEz.jpg?1

Landing a huge army in the desert might have been somewhat ill-advised, as thousands of brave Greeks perish from the heat and starvation alone, but the situation is finally alleviated somewhat when Kaisarios obtains full control of Alexandria.

Back at the home front, it turns out that not all of Greece's citizens are happy to see the Orthodox Church reemerge; many Khazars have settled in Anatolia, almost completely displacing the Greeks from some particular regions. In one of those areas dominated by Judaism, some underground rabbi styles himself a liberator and raises an army of rebels! However, Kaisarios isn't particularly concerned, since they'll take ages to do any real harm and he'll have plenty of time to finish his current business.

https://i.imgur.com/5Ma0EUu.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/0kDGapc.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/QqSBfG0.jpg?1

Kaisarios leads his men to assault the rich Nile Delta; all he wants is Caliph Sadiq III's surrender, which he gets in just a few more months. This little war may have claimed the most casualties in modern Greek history, but at least Alexandria has been restored, so all those grieving wives can proudly proclaim their husbands died for their Lord! It's also a cautionary lesson for Greece, likely to spend plenty of time in Muslim lands in the future.

https://i.imgur.com/93WmaJc.jpg?1

Though not actually quite as important to the faith as Antioch, Alexandria is even richer, and of great value to the oppressed Christians of Africa. Once again, the King will keep it as part of his personal demesne for now, and has little trouble getting the local nobles on his side.

https://i.imgur.com/7vGfu5d.jpg?1

Kaisarios sails home to easily crush the Jewish rebels before finally sending his traumatized veterans home. That dastardly rabbi is summarily executed in front of the Royal Palace, sending a clear message to any other dissenters.

https://i.imgur.com/CQAAkuc.jpg?1

The Kingdoms' armies will actually take a while to replace their lost men this time, so Kaisarios has to accept his fate of staying in Athens. Or so one would think: he takes up hunting as another excuse to lead bands of men into the wilderness and stick pointy objects into living beings.

https://i.imgur.com/v1SPyAk.jpg?1

Yet another Khazar ruler abandons his people, having conquered Georgia from the long-struggling Empire of Albania – the first Khazar state formed in this exact manner – and made the strange choice to govern his realm from the rather distant Khiva. He is likely to end up in conflict with the neighboring... no, surrounding and rather successful Bukhara in the future.

https://i.imgur.com/QSHwLMj.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/SG8DaQ9.jpg?1

Upon hearing of Kaisarios' new hobby, his old friend Bishop Ilik sends him a young hunting dog. The entire court is glad to see their King look happy for once, already planning his first hunting trip with this canine companion, which he creatively names Hunter. It's rather obvious that the seemingly solemn King really just enjoys the little animal's company.

https://i.imgur.com/BRqQ3pV.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/lxzyp5D.jpg?1

The same old legends that once attracted his great grandfather Kallinikos have reached Kaisarios' ears, and he is fascinated by them, even when many of his companions dismiss them as old wives' tales. Catching the legendary White Stag – or is it a different one, after all these years? - would make a magnificent chapter in this rather dull part of his memoirs.

https://i.imgur.com/1qhoZfA.jpg?1

Indeed, a few months later, one of those formerly skeptical hunters comes to him with reports of a reliable sighting in Sicily. Surely it is not impossible for such a mighty beast to leap over the sea? Kaisarios pats the man on the back and tells him to fetch the others; they're going hunting.

https://i.imgur.com/HFsmiFK.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/hKev5d8.jpg?1

The hunt is ultimately a humbling experience, to the disappointment of all. They find no sign of the Stag and have to return home with nothing but some rabbits to show for it. Kaisarios considers passing a royal edict to ban the subject from discussion.

https://i.imgur.com/UcoIbXN.jpg?1

Kaisarios jumps to action upon hearing of another Papal Crusade for Greece, only to soon find out that it was (confusingly enough) directed at the Khagan's remaining holdings in Greek lands and not, well, Greece. That basically only includes Crete and a few Aegean islands, making it a strange choice in Kaisarios' mind, but it ultimately has nothing to do with him. In fact, Catholic conquest would make said territories easier for him to reclaim. It remains to be seen how well the Khagan does without Greece there to help him.

https://i.imgur.com/5dQXaVt.jpg?1

The great King still requires something to cheer him up, though. A young handmaid named Adriane happens to catch his eye, and with his charm and reputation, it doesn't take long for them to end up in bed. It's not infidelity, but probably still inappropriate behavior for a King. Kaisarios seems to have truly fallen in love with the girl, that old fool. In the coming weeks, they often sneak out to... spend time together and... get to know each other.

https://i.imgur.com/IGviJYc.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/q691aQT.jpg?1

Kaisarios honestly isn't all that surprised to see Adriane return with a little boy after disappearing for over half a year; he's made a few children in his day, and Adriane's departure was quite sudden. Kaisarios considers his options: there will be questions, and he can't simply lie about the child's origins, but neither can a King as respected as him simply legitimize a child born out of wedlock. He settles for the middle ground, acknowledging but not legitimizing the child, while finally marrying his beloved Adriane!

https://i.imgur.com/qVY8LX6.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/E8VcK9H.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/P84Y151.jpg?1

A few months later, rumors of a large bear terrorizing the Thessalonikan countryside reach Athens. Though it could easily be handled by locals, Kaisarios is looking for a good prize to hunt, and declares his intention to go do it himself! However, his old rival Andronikos – who just a while ago eloped with his daughter Zenobia, and has risen to a high position in the military – happens to overhear his plans, and insists on coming along. Kaisarios grudgingly allows him to, doing his best to hide his childish disdain for the man.

https://i.imgur.com/VqerC67.jpg?1

However, rather than finding the bear, they end up being found by it, and things go awry. Most of Kaisarios' hunting band gets wounded in the frenzied battle, but when Kaisarios sees Andronikos in trouble, something snaps inside of him and he starts fighting twice as hard. He assaults the bear with his spear, almost like a beast himself, and finally slays it, leaving half the party covered in its blood. Kaisarios is almost embarrassed, but Andronikos owes the King his life.

https://i.imgur.com/n9tiT6b.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/cscRG9b.jpg?1

A few months later, Kaisarios' truce with the Khagan has finally ended. The Empire may seem to be winning its war against the Pope and friends, but is greatly weakened and ripe for conquest. While considering the first thing to reclaim, Kaisarios comes to a surprising conclusion: not any of the Aegean islands, not Thrace, not even anything in Anatolia, but Lecce, the Empire's last holding in continental Sicily. It has allowed them to control the Straits of Otranto, separating Greece and Sicily, and conquering it will have both symbolical and practical value.

https://i.imgur.com/yLjhfKI.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/RJKy7jG.jpg?1

Lecce itself is occupied rather effortlessly, after which Kaisarios heads back to Greece to look for the customary decisive battle to force his enemy into surrender. He eventually finds it in Thrake, eradicating almost 10 000 enemy soldiers and chasing down the remainder afterwards.

https://i.imgur.com/76m8Nko.jpg?1

Indeed, as the tradition goes, just a few weeks later the Khagan offers his surrender of such a petty territory, which is renamed to Brendesion and granted to Kaisarios' son Theophanes, Doux of Longobardia (former Apulia).

https://i.imgur.com/JrA5ouW.jpg?1

Strange how such a small addition can make a large nation feel so much more... solid.

https://i.imgur.com/OciH9ix.jpg?1

Even if that last war wasn't particularly remarkable otherwise, it managed to remind everyone that the graying King Kaisarios is still a formidable leader and virtuous knight of Christendom, deserving their utmost respect.

https://i.imgur.com/pR8hfR1.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Bgm1hkD.jpg?1

Kaisarios himself doesn't even really care that much anymore, however, spending his time with Hunter instead. A dog is a man's best friend, and indeed seems to have finally improved his chronically ill mood.

https://i.imgur.com/999LOkd.jpg?1

He's having a good enough day to almost believe the news that the White Stag has been spotted once again, this time back in Greece.

https://i.imgur.com/h0JAH0V.jpg?1

The trip is... inconclusive, as expected, but really does wonders for his aching joints.

https://i.imgur.com/Y73oF72.jpg?1

He still has some idiomatic aches, though, among them an ache for WAR! The Third Crusade for Greece was another humiliating failure – the Fourth will probably follow soon enough – but he has plans for one of his own. The Greeks like to refer to the reclamation of Antioch and Alexandria as Crusades, but in fact they were just normal conquests with only verbal blessing from the Patriarch. However, the Shiite branch of Islam has finally managed to gain some land around – wouldn't you know it – Jerusalem! While Caliph Abdul-Qadir has quite a horde of devout warriors, it would be possible to attack him without immediately drawing in the rest of the Muslim World.

https://i.imgur.com/E5VJwye.jpg?1

Indeed, with a little nudge from Kaisarios, the Patriarch of Greece chooses the Christmas of 1051 as the best time to declare a proper Crusade for that holiest of cities and the last seat of the Pentarchy in Muslim hands!

https://i.imgur.com/pKEQhEZ.jpg?1

Controlling most of the Levantine coast, the Caliph is able to quickly send a large invasion force – practically his entire army - over to Cyprus. Kaisarios follows suit, considering it quite a fitting arena for his greatest battle yet.

https://i.imgur.com/SnwYtj2.jpg?1

He takes the opportunity to strike after the Shia bloody themselves scaling Famagusta's walls. His mighty cavalry corps are once again instrumental in wearing down the enemy before the real battle even starts, and when it does, all it takes is a fearsome push by the Phalanx of the Parthenon to decide the battle in his favor.

https://i.imgur.com/Tj66jpD.jpg?1

However, Greece's greatest enemy, the desert itself, still remains. Kaisarios is 'Wise' enough to split the army into two smaller parts, more capable of supplying themselves, rather than provide the vultures with another feast.

https://i.imgur.com/SsR6M52.jpg?1

It only takes a few easy assaults for Jerusalem and Acre to fall into Greek hands. As the result of a real Crusade, all local landholders are executed or evicted and replaced with Greeks.

https://i.imgur.com/DeOfa9h.jpg?1

The holy city where the Son of God was crucified and buried has been claimed for Christendom! Kaisarios can't help but wonder what those Jews over the border must be thinking right now. Of course, the Muslims also consider it sacred for completely different reasons, and are quite eager to get it back. The humiliated Caliph calls a great Jihad to reconquer it, and even the Sunni will probably listen to his advice, but it remains to be seen whether they can really pose a threat to a realm as magnificent as Greece.

https://i.imgur.com/WEvRAYb.jpg?1

Indeed, the call has been heard all the way in Persia, where a new brotherhood of warrior clergy not unlike the Pope's precious Knights has been founded. This Bektashi Order is sure to participate in any future wars of religion.

[Okay, at this point I'm convinced that Steam's screenshots are bugging out on me]

Another group in Baghdad sees this as a good time to rise, too. The Haruriyyah are another name Christendom will probably have to hear all too much.

https://i.imgur.com/crzeyNs.jpg?1

Time passes, and the fractured states of the Levant really don't look like a problem. Kaisarios' companions lure him on another hunting trip with news of the White Stag, which has apparently migrated to Sicily again. Kaisarios really doesn't expect much, but the hunt has become something of a tradition by now, one he rather enjoys, even if it continues to prove futile.

https://i.imgur.com/YCSh9F2.jpg?1

Suddenly shattered by statewide rebellions, the Akin Caliphate has been overthrown by the Yusufid dynasty and broken up into a myriad of small and weakened Sultanates and Emirates. With the Muslims busy fighting each other, the Pentarchy is probably in safe hands.

https://i.imgur.com/zTZFBKB.jpg?1

In fact, Kaisarios decides to once again exploit this disunity by embarking on a Crusade for Alexandria, hoping to conquer the independent Emirate surrounding the eponymous city. The Emir fails to find anyone to stand on his side, probably falling rather quickly under Greece's steel-clad hooves.

https://i.imgur.com/U9S7bf8.jpg?1

He does indeed, granting Greece a very strong foothold in Egypt. So strong in fact that Kaisarios feels comfortable making it into a Duchy and delegating the Patriarch of Alexandria's protection to a distant cousin of his.

https://i.imgur.com/qgmIpVB.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/69jHHvI.jpg?1

Kaisarios also conquers the rest of Antioch, making it into another Duchy for another cousin.

https://i.imgur.com/zPdFfK6.jpg?1

The Pentarch of Jerusalem and Patriarch of Greece has done excellent work in the Holy Land, managing to convert that city of many faiths to Orthodoxy! As the one true branch of Christendom comes to dominate the city, its prestige and influence grows worldwide. The Pentarch, who has proven himself a very blessed missionary and spiritual leader, is asked to try and do the same in Antioch.

https://i.imgur.com/GoJWUWC.jpg?1

To commemorate his successful Crusades and their results, Kaisarios orders the construction of a great cathedral in Athens to serve as the Patriarch of Greece's seat of power. It won't be any Hagia Sophia, which has long since been violated and converted into a synagogue, but definitely the largest house of worship in the current Orthodox world, though that may not be saying much. The Bishopric of Piraeus is prosperous and fortified, making it an obvious choice to house the cathedral.

The tradition of the ”Stag Party”, as some at court have started to call it, continues. 60-year-old Kaisarios is really just looking for excuses to get out more, this time right in his own demesne.

https://i.imgur.com/LjCCfAB.jpg?1

However, as he visits the stables to prepare for the trip, Kaisarios is shocked to discover his loyal vassal Doux Konstantios having an explicit affair with Princess Viviana, his daughter! Both are married to others, making it doubly scandalous. While it may bring some dishonor to the name of Skleros, Kaisarios simply cannot allow such behavior within the Royal Palace! Their sins are exposed, but the King hopes that it won't cause too big of a fuss... He really can't look at either of them the same way.

https://i.imgur.com/bnMuTHh.jpg?1

On their hunting trip, Kaisarios and friends come across a strange-looking hut. The old King takes a peculiar interest in the shack and decides to check what's inside. He's welcomed in by a friendly old crone who offers him a magical potion to make him the best hunter in the realm. Though the King's companions are understandably skeptical, something about the woman and her offer are strangely fascinating and Kaisarios carefully drinks the whole vial as his nervous guards just watch.

https://i.imgur.com/WVgPeek.jpg?1

Kaisarios is disappointed and the others relieved that there seems to be no immediate effect. The crone assures them that the potion has indeed worked, and Kaisarios' luck will change in the future...

https://i.imgur.com/kjBNiym.jpg?1

That remains to be seen, as Kaisarios and his hunters return home in a few days, though the King just won't stop talking about that pleasant feeling inside him. Hopefully the old hero has enough years left for another attempt...

https://i.imgur.com/e5tutyq.jpg?1

He has a different kind of hunt in mind, though. His latest truce with the Khagan has ended, meaning it's basically his responsibility to continue the Imperial Reclamation. His subjects have long demanded that he completely banish the Empire from Sicily, so that's what he's going to do, in the form of a proper Crusade to continue a good tradition. The Khagan's forces are in much better shape than last time, perhaps promising a more interesting fight.

https://i.imgur.com/2SX37Cp.jpg?1

The Sicilian lords and the Phalanx of the Parthenon will target the contested holdings while the larger force led by Kaisarios prepares to fight the Imperial army.

https://i.imgur.com/cd8BYSc.jpg?1

Half of the enemy army is hiding in the Bulgarian mountains while the other marches from Constantinople, so Greece engages the latter. Kaisarios has indeed gotten old, receiving a devastating blow to the head that would surely kill any lesser man but leaves him unconscious instead. Though his men are shocked to have lost their invincible leader, the battle continues.

https://i.imgur.com/eTqMM9B.jpg?1

The Doux of Cibyrrhaeot will serve as his regent as he's transported to Athens to recover. His attendants are rather pessimistic about his chances of survival...

https://i.imgur.com/GRAzWQ4.jpg?1

Even though more enemy forces join the battle and it drags on for a while, it is ultimately a crushing victory for Greece, as usual. Now led by the King's distant cousin, the Count of Neapolis, the army chases down the enemy stragglers and heads for Constantinople, the walls of which have been barely repaired since the Greeks' last visit. They're almost mischievously broken down once more.

https://i.imgur.com/oVIT2Fi.jpg?1

After a total of 13 months of war, peace is signed and the Empire is forced to hand over its last real enclaves within Greek territory. The Kingdoms feel a bit more solid and secure again.

https://i.imgur.com/Spdc7lu.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Da798gy.jpg?1

The victory is rather bittersweet, however, given King Kaisarios' condition. Though his heart still beats and he can swallow with some help, he has yet to open his eyes, speak or move at all. The whole realm awaits a miraculous recovery, but as days turn into weeks and months, it becomes clear that one might not be coming. The young Queen Adriane spends far too much of her time sitting by his bed, accompanied only by the elderly Hunter.

His regent may be a good diplomat, but some doubt his grasp on economics as he spends a lot of royal money on charity and all sorts of little community projects. Of course, Kaisarios probably wouldn't have protested much, but there's still something iffy about being charitable with other people's wealth.

https://i.imgur.com/qWCaW55.jpg?1

Interesting news arrive from the east: the struggling Shia Caliphate has called an immediate Jihad for the Empire's Anatolian regions. Most doubt their success, since even though the Khagan is still recovering from Greece's last attack, he's still stronger than the tiny Caliphate, which is unlikely to attract many allies.

https://i.imgur.com/3HQn1y7.jpg?1

In Athens, one of Greece's other Doukes has managed to manipulate the court to oust the former regent and take his position in a blatant ploy for influence.

https://i.imgur.com/igGy3rt.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Q37hUUs.jpg?1

After many years of work, Antioch is converted to the one true faith as well. The Doux of Alexandria has been successful in his own lands, too, making that three seats of the Pentarchy reclaimed and converted; two remain in Constantinople and Rome.

https://i.imgur.com/1p1whOu.jpg?1

The Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre has diligently protected Christendom's holiest sites, even when harassed and threatened by the locals. However, as the faith gains new traction, they've been able to rise from mere safekeepers to a proper Knightly Order, comparable to those employed by the Catholics and Muslims, though much less pathetic of course. They swear their fealty to God alone, even if they happen to reside in Greek territory. They keep their headquarters within Jerusalem itself, organizing its defense and security while also preparing to aid in any Orthodox rulers' rightful wars.

https://i.imgur.com/xqDQPmM.jpg?1

After four years of pained existence, King Kaisarios finally releases his tired grasp on life and accepts his place in death, having led a long and glorious live worth envying, easily the most glorious in the history of Greece. It is a great tragedy for the whole realm. He ruled the realm for 60 whole years, during which his virtues only increased with time and were never tainted by sin. He will go down in history as a great King, an epic hero and a saint; indeed, the great cathedral he built would later be named the Patriarchal Basilica of St Kaisarios in his honor. The anniversary of his death on 3rd of May 1066 would be commemorated year after year.

https://i.imgur.com/fKvCvLo.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/qZUWMuh.jpg?1

Long live Staurakios Skleros, King of Greece and Sicily, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika, Chalkidike, Mâcon, Hainaut and Jerusalem, Sovereign Lord of Alexandria and Antioch!

https://i.imgur.com/f3Nzm3K.jpg?1
Greece's Crusades have secured some very important areas, while its secession from the Empire has almost completely stalled the Khagan's own expansion. They would seem to be successful in repelling the Shiite Jihad, though. The Doux of Antioch was recently successful in his independent Crusade against Armenia, capturing a border Duchy.

https://i.imgur.com/PqkcwBa.jpg?1

As the Sultanate of Andalusia is shattered by rebellion, the King of Asturias has been able to reconquer small parts of Christendom's lost territory. Some especially zealous individuals are calling it the start of a full-blown ”Reconquista”, but unfortunately Asturias' impractical succession laws insist on splitting the realm and hindering its progress.

https://i.imgur.com/4qKYZov.jpg?1

France and Burgundy's unclear borders have solidified somewhat, but King Staurakios' inherited holdings, formerly part of Lotharingia, are still quite impractically separated. Aquitaine was, strangely enough, conquered by the Pope himself and made into a Theocracy ruled by elected King-Bishops. The Duchy of Toulouse managed to split off, but is in danger of being conquered again.

https://i.imgur.com/5pyprlJ.jpg?1

Eastern Europe has yet to really stabilize, though both Rus and Ruthenia have persevered, even after being conquered a time or two. The Hungarians have strengthened their position in the Carpathian basin, while the Polish tribes – the last Slavic pagan realms in the world – are on their way to unification. The Knights Templar have managed to utilize a claim possessed by a Grandmaster of theirs to conquer much of Bohemia for a firmer power base.

https://i.imgur.com/22uWGx7.jpg?1

Across the Caspian Sea, Bukhara is well on its way to regional domination, steadily carving its way south into Persia and towards the Indian Ocean.

https://i.imgur.com/osa3wfc.jpg?1
Well, that war of independence sure was anticlimactic... as were all those Crusades. Wars in CK2 tend to be decided by a couple battles between entire armies, followed by a few quick assaults and an easy surrender, so it's hard to write all that much about them, especially since we're so strong. I much prefer EU4's warfare system. Kaisarios was a real beast, though, literally invincible all the way until his very last battle (though that was ultimately won, too). I really love it when a single character manages to stand out and go down in history, especially in AARs, but things may start going downhill from here... :smalltongue:

I might regret asking this, but... does anyone want to protest my intention to make Staurakios convert back to the proper faith and culture? It would be a real pain not to, and I really can't imagine the Greeks accepting a foreign infidel as the successor of their saintly savior. He's Cynical, he knows how it works. :smallwink:

From here, I suppose we'll have to start aiming high in order to avoid reducing this to a mere series of nondescript Crusades against the Khagan every 10 years. We've still got almost 400 years left...

[GnomeGninjas]

Wait, what's Staurakios' current religion and culture? I missed something.

[SilverLeaf167]

Yeah, whoops, I somehow left that final screenshot (http://i.imgur.com/f3Nzm3K.jpg?1) out, but I added it now... in his 30 years as a count in foreign lands, Staurakios became a Catholic Frenchman. :smallyuk:

[Sallera]

Yes, I don't think we can have that. :3

Regarding future plans while nomming on Byzantium, trying to spread Orthodoxy outside your own borders could be interesting. Invite some claimants, convert them, send them back home with a new kingdom or something... :smalltongue:

[Flickerdart]

You can't mend the Schism as a Catholic (for...some reason) so you should become Orthodox again.

[Tentreto]

At the very least, he should become Orthodox, and his descendants Greek- if he is cynical, or a genius, he probably realizes this.

[Cristo Meyers]

At the very least, he should become Orthodox, and his descendants Greek- if he is cynical, or a genius, he probably realizes this.

I was thinking the same thing. Plus he's ambitious, becoming the Hero of the Orthodox by mending the Schism just seems like the kind of thing that would appeal to such a character.

[GnomeGninjas]

I think he should stay French (but allow his heir to become Greek). Turning Orthodox seems pragmatic and is in-universe justifiable. Being culturally the same as everyone else after spending 2/3 of his life in a French court is less realistic and his outsider status could make RP more interesting.

[IthilanorStPete]

One thing that might help keep things interesting is to be a bit more carefree about educating your heirs; rather than a stable realm under a succession of brave/diligent/just/honest leaders, let's see what happens when Greece is ruled by a deceitful/cruel/paranoid schemer. :smallbiggrin:


I think he should stay French (but allow his heir to become Greek). Turning Orthodox seems pragmatic and is in-universe justifiable. Being culturally the same as everyone else after spending 2/3 of his life in a French court is less realistic and his outsider status could make RP more interesting.

Took the words right out of my mouth. Remaining French should add a bit of extra spice to the narrative and potentially exacerbate tensions with vassals, potentially leading to some interesting conflict.

[SilverLeaf167]

Okay, so I suppose I'm becoming Orthodox but staying French. You're right that it makes more sense from a roleplaying point of view, and false religion is a bigger problem anyway. And yeah, I probably could easily conquer Constantinople and Rome and mend the schism in just a couple of years, yet... I dunno, I feel like it needs to be more climactic, but have no idea how to actually make it so. :smalltongue:

The thing with child-rearing is that I've always tried to roleplay the current character in that aspect too, but that does obviously lead to something of a loop with good traits. Maybe someone might be lazy enough to actually delegate their child's upbringing to a questionable courtier? It only takes a single bad apple to break the chain. At least Staurakios' son isn't another Genius...

[Yaktan]

I concur with the idea of going orthodox, but keeping the current ruler french. Should give good story hooks, with him being away for so long and having to step into such big shoes.

[Flickerdart]

Okay, so I suppose I'm becoming Orthodox but staying French. You're right that it makes more sense from a roleplaying point of view, and false religion is a bigger problem anyway. And yeah, I probably could easily conquer Constantinople and Rome and mend the schism in just a couple of years, yet... I dunno, I feel like it feels to be more climactic, but have no idea how to actually make it so. :smalltongue:
What could be more climactic than a French Catholic turning Orthodox and then deciding the entire world must follow him?

[SilverLeaf167]

Uh, I just realized I have to control the Byzantine Empire first. So there's that. :smallamused:

[Tentreto]

Uh, I just realized I have to control the Byzantine Empire first. So there's that. :smallamused:

Oh dear...
Well, time to take over the Byzantine, rename it to Athenian (or something), and unite the church.

Easy:smallbiggrin:

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #10: The Finest Frenchman (1066-1077)

King Staurakios returns to Greece in quite the anxious mood. He was but 16 when he left for Lotharingia, looking for adventure, and after almost 30 years, the experience has really changed him. He's mostly maintained his virtuous nature, though he has also learned a pragmatic attitude in his search for prestige and wealth. Those aren't the most important differences, though: while serving as a Count, Chancellor and commander under the Duke of Brabant, he has absorbed the language, ways and worst of all religion of his Lotharingian court. Though he grew up in Greece, it feels quite foreign now, yet he's supposed to be its sovereign ruler all of a sudden?

https://i.imgur.com/tfIb57l.jpg?1

He's accompanied by his elderly wife, the former Duke's daughter Yolande. Staurakios isn't always quite sure what he saw in the woman, especially now that she's even more old, withered and grumpy than he is.

https://i.imgur.com/onaFk3R.jpg?1

Staurakios' son and heir, named after the greatest King of all, hasn't ever seen Greece in his life, even if Staurakios has tried his best to teach him about it; after all, he too will rule it one day. He's an outgoing and ambitious personality, just like his father, but often a little... difficult.

https://i.imgur.com/Sw04cpr.jpg?1

Staurakios has, to his great shame, only had nominal contact with his homeland in these past decades. He's written and received a few letters here and there, but mostly he's just heard the same news as everyone else in the Christian world: ”The King of Greece has defeated the Jew!” ”The King of Greece has reclaimed Jerusalem!” ”I heard the King of Greece is the richest man in the world!”

It is abundantly clear that he has a majestic legacy to live up to, but he's determined to prove himself worthy.

He and the court really get off on the wrong foot, though. As soon as he reflexively greets them in French, he knows he's already failed his first examination; his Greek is quite rusty, but he'll soon get used to it again. A bigger problem emerges as soon as the locals realize he's converted to Catholicism. It is made abundantly clear, through very thinly veiled threats, that he simply cannot rule a people as pious and a land as holy as Greece without returning to the right path. He's not an idiot, he knows how it goes... but his devotion to Orthodoxy is half-hearted at best, even if he has to wield it as a symbol of power. As a side note, it's strongly recommended that he grow a stylish beard like his father's, who has quite literally become the model of a fine King in the people's eyes.

https://i.imgur.com/8KTwlJY.jpg?2

Of course, it's also critical that his son learn the local ways sooner rather than later. The Mayor of Megara, the second-largest city in the Kingdoms located right next to Athens, offers to serve as his tutor in the Greek tongue, language and religion. He does seem like quite a good teacher, and Staurakios is under a lot of pressure to accept, so off Kaisarios goes! At least he's close enough to stay in regular contact with his father.

https://i.imgur.com/ap084Yv.jpg?1

Staurakios has to decide what to do with his holdings in France. As attached as he is to them, it is true that they're of practically no value for Greece, being too distant and isolated. However, an Orthodox foothold that far west could prove useful one day, and it would be a shame to just throw them away...

https://i.imgur.com/59yQCpi.jpg?1

He is surprised to find the third Prince of Lotharingia in Athens! He was there when the lad was born, in fact. Just over a year ago, he was married to Staurakios' niece Ioulia, but Ioulia died in an accident about a month ago and now the man has nothing to do but hang around. Staurakios has a plan for Prince Humbert, though: he's rewed to Staurakios' own daughter Sergia, with the shared understanding that their children will be of the Skleros dynasty, after which he's given those lands in Hainaut and Mâcon to govern. A foreign claimant in the realm is never a bad idea...

https://i.imgur.com/C9R2s8U.jpg?1

Even if he isn't the most devout of men, Staurakios is more than willing to use the Church as a tool of conquest! He gets the Patriarch to call a Crusade for Cilicia, held by the Khagan. Cilicia is one of the largest and wealthiest Duchies in the Empire, and will provide the Greek mainland with a direct land connection to Antioch.

https://i.imgur.com/kkn393L.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/tLdosto.jpg?1

Perhaps trying to emulate his father, Staurakios insists on leading from the front. Of course, he isn't half bad at it, having learned from the best and commanded Brabant's armies in many a civil war. Whereas his father was known for his unstoppable charges, Staurakios is somewhat more defensively minded as a leader, though by no means a coward himself. He proves his worth in multiple battles against the Khagan and is starting to earn his subjects' respect. The Khagan surrenders in due time, as seems to be his lot in life.

https://i.imgur.com/dEzLJcY.jpg?1

Being located in such a central position, the wealthy Duchy's population is a diverse mix of Khazars, Greeks and Syrians, few of whom are Orthodox, making conversion a long and arduous process and revolts rather likely. More importantly, the Empire has pretty much lost its southern coast, only controlling a few meager islands.

https://i.imgur.com/uoWp8OG.jpg?1

There is a brief awkward moment as it turns out that the commander they managed to capture in the last battle is a Skleros himself, the great-great-great-great grandson of the dastardly Niketas 'the Fat' who cheated himself the Duchy of Krete so long ago. The Kretan branch isn't especially popular with the main family, especially since they were so willing to turn to Judaism, but now that the war is over, Doux Gerasimos is peacefully ransomed after receiving only a couple bonus beatings.

https://i.imgur.com/YLt3gD3.jpg?1

The peasants of Apulia, an area with a high concentration of Italians or ”Romans” as they're called in the Kingdoms, have suddenly gotten tired of Greek "oppression" and try to stage a rebellion.

https://i.imgur.com/hmf8FgA.jpg?1

They're easily dealt with, but their leader has a special fate awaiting him. As would be done for many criminals big and small in the future, he is sent to serve the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre; they've managed to cement their position by procuring castles from pious lords in Venetia and Sicily, and are more than willing to let sinful Christians ”repent” through service to the one true God. The rebel is sent to Sicily, where he takes the vows:


”The Crescent rises, and now my watch begins.
It shall not end until so judged by God. I shall take no wife, hold no lands, father no children. I shall wear no crowns nor crown any other. I shall live and die at my post.
I am the sword in the east. I am the priest in the bell tower.
I am the cross that stands on the hill, the sun that scorches the desert, the stone that supports the temple, the shield that guards the realms of Christ.
I pledge my life and honor to the Holy Sepulchre, for this fight and all the fights to come.”


Prince Kaisarios turns 16, and it seems that just a few years in a completely foreign environment were not in fact enough to naturalize him into Greek society. He did learn the language, but only with a strange accent, and didn't even formally convert away from Catholicism. That latter problem will be fixed, but this French influence in the Greek court continues to be a problem.

https://i.imgur.com/dFTDYi5.jpg?1

Good old Caliph Abdul-Qadir suddenly declares war against Greece, based on his old claim on Jerusalem. It's not even a Jihad, so few others will join, and his petty Caliphate-in-name-only can barely muster 2000 soldiers, so nobody really has any idea what he was thinking.

https://i.imgur.com/PcgXbch.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/A3GEobc.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/utXhF3a.jpg?1

The Caliph's little ”army” lays siege to Jerusalem but is almost offhandedly dismissed as soon as Staurakios arrives. Greece's army then lays siege to the Caliph's capital. Militant Muslims in nearby Acre choose... well, a surprisingly handy time to rise up, since the troops are already in the area. After accepting the humiliated Caliph's surrender – some religious head he is – Staurakios easily crushes the rebels too. The Brotherhood accepts no infidels, so the leader and his surviving conspirators are executed in front of the Royal Palace on the same movable platform as the Jewish rebel from Kaisarios' time, which has earned itself the nickname of ”Blasphemer's Block”.

https://i.imgur.com/AEghkGW.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ngbsMW8.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/v86dM5w.jpg?1

Staurakios embarks on another small Crusade for Damietta, in the Nile Delta, winning it rather quickly. He'd happily conquer all of Arabia if he could, but these recent wars have taken their toll, so he has to let the armies reinforce for quite a while.

https://i.imgur.com/DdxdZYn.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/J2GqADz.jpg?1

Staurakios' bastard brother Petros, Marshal of Greece, requests his royal permission to join the ever-growing Brotherhood. Staurakios wouldn't have forbidden it anyway, but he's especially glad to let him go because some upstart nobles are presenting him as a claimant to the throne. As a celibate Brother off in the Holy Land, he should be no threat.

https://i.imgur.com/13MVvWs.jpg?1

In addition, it's subtly suggested to Staurakios that as he's practically the secular leader of the Orthodox faith, he should probably offer more of his support to these valiant Brothers. Indeed, Greece definitely has the money to spare and it would be wise to sponsor the Brotherhood, for it would legitimize both them and the King. He sends a big chest of gold along with Petros; hopefully it won't be interpreted as a bribe...

https://i.imgur.com/sVnh1RM.jpg?1

Indeed, this new King seems almost exaggeratedly generous, lobbing bags of money at anyone with a good excuse for asking. Some think he's just throwing his weight around, or that it's a French way of showing your majesty, or that he's just bad with money... in truth, that second one is pretty close. Staurakios wants to prove to everyone that even if he can't liberate the people from foreign oppression or evict the Khazars or whatever, he can still be a good and benevolent ruler. By now, the point should have been more than proven, but he's a little obsessed with the thought, as more and more stories about his father's magnificence reach him day by day.

After some years of recovery, it's time for more infidel-stabbing. He wants to strengthen Greece's hold on the area around Jerusalem, so Caliph Abdul-Qadir is a logical (and defenseless) choice, controlling much of the coast.

https://i.imgur.com/m502jYE.jpg?1

The armies clash and the vastly outmanned Shia are defeated. Staurakios' favorite tactics include letting the enemy charge and bash its face against his armored knights and pikemen before being flanked by the heavy cavalry. It is very effective, allowing for complete encirclement and annihilation while taking minimal risks, as seen in this battle where the Greeks only take 14 casualties, mostly from the initial arrow volleys.

https://i.imgur.com/Mj3je8A.jpg?1

The war is decided some months later. While in the area anyway, Staurakios also conquers the lands of the two independent Sheikhs nearby. The Duchy of Ascalon is formed and granted to the Count of Acre.

https://i.imgur.com/spCVEpF.jpg?1

King Fernando of León, formerly Asturias, an ally through recent marriage, asks Staurakios to join in his war to reunite Galicia with his realm. Staurakios shrugs and ”accepts” the summons, but has no intention of actually sending any troops. In fact, it seems the war is practically finished already, peace being made a month later in León's favor.

https://i.imgur.com/7q7nBKW.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/1suToGf.jpg?1

Since he's staying in the Holy Land for a while, Staurakios decides to go on a brief tour of the usual pilgrimage spots and visit the Brotherhood's holdings in Jerusalem. There he comes across a petty but ambitious architect in the Brothers' employ. He's usually relegated to simple maintenance and such, but he has plans for a magnificent fort carved directly into a cliff face near the city. If done using his inventive method, it would be much cheaper (and interesting!) than any normal castle, assuming said methods work. Staurakios is definitely intrigued, and promises this visionary the meager sponsorship he requires.

https://i.imgur.com/u57Dkeg.jpg?1

Fortunately, the project is a great success! With only a few external segments sticking out, the fortress of Montgisard has been almost entirely carved out of sheer rock. Overlooking an important road, it would later be donated to the Brotherhood and grow into a formidable forward base of theirs.

https://i.imgur.com/BT1iWtI.jpg?1

The respected Grandmaster of the Brotherhood (jokingly known as ”Big Brother”) dies of sickness, leaving his office to Petros! Staurakios can't help but wonder if that chest of gold really did affect the Brothers' decision: these Greeks handle money and gifts so very differently... Either way, he sends his congratulations to Petros, both of them happy that he managed to find the respect he wanted without having to resort to violence... against fellow Christians, at least.

https://i.imgur.com/cTkIkqp.jpg?1

Speaking of which, the King of Greece and Sicily is bored again, and you know what that means! A Crusade is called, this time for Tortosa in the Emirate of Tripoli, the mostly inland Wahid Sultanate's coastal outpost and capital. Staurakios is also pleased to discover that his allies are actually quite happy to join holy wars, even if they're fought for someone else's faith. Apparently hatred of Muslims overcomes all minor dogmatic differences. Of course, they won't be able to do much from way over there, and their help really isn't needed anyway, but it's good to know that they can be relied on to do nothing.

https://i.imgur.com/Fe9DHy8.jpg?1

While the Brotherhood's scattered companies parade around and try to look imposing, Staurakios takes the city and handles the Sultan's men. Staurakios is starting to notice that his archers practically always form the clear majority of the casualties; he's starting to doubt the myth of bowmen not needing armor.

https://i.imgur.com/GLAZL0A.jpg?1

He's also surprised to find out that the King of Germany has actually sent over quite a formidable army. That's some real devotion. Even León sends a modest dispatchment, still bigger than Greece's participation in their latest war.

https://i.imgur.com/s2skpwV.jpg?1

It's almost a shame to send them back home right away, as the Sultan finally agrees to Staurakios' ultimately rather small demands.

https://i.imgur.com/C3v2JDv.jpg?1

Indeed, that is why Staurakios declares another Crusade almost immediately and asks for the Germans' help before they leave. The rest of Tripoli is ruled by a different Sultanate and quite a bit richer than Tortosa, meaning way more plunder. As usual, however, he is frustrated to find that his own armies have gone drinking and whoring to the extent that he has to basically remobilize the whole lot. The same thing, after every single war... The Phalanx of the Parthenon is the only company elite enough not to be tempted by such misbehavior and stands ready to fight. However, while leading them in a small skirmish, a random arrow finds a narrow hole in Staurakios' thick armor and penetrates his neck. While coughing his gold-plated helmet full of blood, his last baffled thoughts are ”Maybe this is why those archers don't bother...”

The 7th of July 1077 is a sad day for all. In his 11-year reign, Staurakios managed to overcome everyone's bad first impressions and prove himself a capable King; he may not have surpassed his father's glory, but that's honestly setting the bar unfairly high. His own pessimistic attitude gradually dispersed, too. He never let his lust for power cloud his judgment, even if he did occasionally get a little aggressive about it. His rule is, however, commonly overshadowed in history by the rise of the Brotherhood, a very important symbol of the Crusades.

https://i.imgur.com/00e2CaP.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/UvFiry1.jpg?1

Long live Kaisarios Skleros, second of his name (or third, depending on your system), King of Greece and Sicily, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika, Chalkidike and Jerusalem, Sovereign Lord of Alexandria, Cilicia, Edessa, Ascalon and Tortosa!

https://i.imgur.com/Nt3MqlY.jpg?1
Not much to say here, really. Do you think I should give the Brotherhood something more than mere castles? Maybe Jerusalem itself? Perhaps only after I vassalize them (which requires becoming an Empire)... I really like the flavor they bring, for some reason, especially with my own made-up embellishments on top.


Oh dear...
Well, time to take over the Byzantine, rename it to Athenian (or something), and unite the church.

Easy:smallbiggrin:
I'm thinking Hellenic, especially if we do go with the plan of following in Alexander's footsteps. I even have a cool custom flag ready! :smallwink:

Also, I somehow realized just now that the Khazar invasion was in many ways our own version of the historical Turkicization of Anatolia, especially as Khazar culture still lingers in, uh, about a quarter of the region. I really should mention that rather large minority more often... It'll probably be more prominent in EU4, where culture is much more relevant.

[Cristo Meyers]

Not much to say here, really. Do you think I should give the Brotherhood something more than mere castles? Maybe Jerusalem itself? Perhaps only after I vassalize them (which requires becoming an Empire)... I really like the flavor they bring, for some reason, especially with my own made-up embellishments on top.

Why not create the kingdom of Jerusalem and then give it to the Brotherhood? Spin it as a zealous but ultimately cowardly ruler giving the land to the noble, righteous Brotherhood to rule in his stead or something. Plus it'd give you something to do other than beat up on the Khazar Byzantines: a small, independent Jerusalem is going to be a target almost immediately. They'd need defended until they get on their feet, and once they do it'll make the middle east situation more interesting, that's for sure.

[SilverLeaf167]

I considered that, but there's the slight problem that a Holy Order with a Kingdom-ranked title will use that title's succession laws instead. The Open Elective system is perhaps the coolest thing about them (seeing that adventurous brother or banished rebel show up as the Grand Master...) so losing it would be a shame. Mayhaps I could just manually mod it in... it'd still ruin my fabulous borders, though. (visible in the next chapter)

In fact, I wonder if I could just make Brotherhood a Kingdom-rank instead?

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #11: The Friendly Fiend (1077-1104)

King Kaisarios II – not to be confused with King Kaisarios I, who used to be Doux Kaisarios II in his youth – hasn't been entirely content with his life up to now. As soon as he and his loving father arrived in Greece, he was shipped off to stay with some strange Mayor who would only speak Greek to him; his father visited regularly, but more out of duty than anything. After he turned 16, he was forced to abandon the faith he grew up with and just sit around at court. Though an outgoing and even charming personality on the surface, the resentful Kaisarios has taken to amusing himself by harassing and mentally abusing his courtiers. Whereas Staurakios had a hot temper but never got violent, Kaisarios' cruelty is often completely calm and premeditated, which just might be worse. Even then, he does his best to hide it and is afraid of open conflict.

https://i.imgur.com/NtxnGl9.jpg?1

His father wouldn't even arrange him a marriage, which he is eager to do immediately. He settles for a betrothal with Countess Ide of Narbonne, a coastal County from Southern Aquitaine.

https://i.imgur.com/gBWiQs4.jpg?1

The Crusade for Tripoli continues, but unlike the last two kings, Kaisarios II isn't interested in leading from the front, and wouldn't be very good at it anyway. Leave fighting to fighters and ruling to rulers! However, Staurakios' untimely death severed Greece's alliance with Germany, which means that he'll actually have to mobilize his own armies.

https://i.imgur.com/V8XJ4WC.jpg?1

Ide turns 16 and the wedding is held immediately. She's very social and ambitious, but too lazy to actually do anything about her plans. Her main value is in the possibility of inheriting another outpost in the west.

https://i.imgur.com/ArO4e0x.jpg?1

The war is won. Kaisarios turns the Emirate into a Duchy, granted to the prior Count of Tortosa. Greece is quickly coming to dominate the Northern Levant.

https://i.imgur.com/NjgsGuV.jpg?1

However, there may be internal problems on the way. The Doukes aren't particularly fond of their new King, and this string of supremely competent rulers may indeed have created a realm too large for a more average one to handle. Many of his vassals outside Greece and Sicily even dare demand independence! Well, Kaisarios sure isn't giving it to them. He'll get rid of these traitors one by one if he has to!

https://i.imgur.com/BT0YVIw.jpg?2

The Doge of Venetia is the first to go, off a cliff that is. His fellow Patricians, in their pursuit for power, were more than happy to help Kaisarios ensure that he wouldn't return from this particular business trip.

https://i.imgur.com/rR4PO4H.jpg?1

While Kaisarios is plotting his next cold-blooded murder, a declaration of war arrives at court! The Sunni Caliph has called an immediate Jihad for Greece's holdings in Egypt. While the Caliph has very little secular power these days, his proclamation might attract a huge horde of pious Muslims to fight by his side. ”Allah is merciful” is quite an interesting war cry, but Greece must defend the Pentarch!

https://i.imgur.com/Qo3T9ll.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/2Rvaycf.jpg?1

This attack does have a definite upside: the Doukes are united against a hated enemy, leaving them less time and will to rebel against their rightful liege when there are better targets around! Even better, the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre is more than willing to serve Kaisarios in this conflict – for free!

After landing in Alexandria, Greece's army splits into two fronts that advance to the east and west simultaneously. However, Muslim soldiers are starting to arrive between them, and will have to be handled sometime soon.

https://i.imgur.com/xlX17H0.jpg?1

After only two years of marriage, Queen Ide dies of sudden illness. Saddened by the loss of such a lovely County – uh, Countess – King Kaisarios has to remarry. He makes a new engagement with the young Princess of Galicia.

https://i.imgur.com/mZVILdy.jpg?1

The Muslims keep throwing themselves at Greece's armies in tiny chunks, practically beating themselves to death. After about 16 months, most of the Yusufid and Abbasid holdings in Egypt are either occupied or under siege.

https://i.imgur.com/Deg94O7.jpg?1

One battered army is headed for the Yusufid capital, Damascus.

https://i.imgur.com/Rx7d9O0.jpg?1

After almost two years of sieges and one-sided battles, the Caliph finally calls it quits. These infidels are no match for the forces of the one true God! This magnificent victory has also improved the still somewhat disliked Kaisarios' piety and prestige in the Greeks' eyes. Indeed, many are even calling him Kaisarios 'the Hammer', even if he didn't really do anything personally. The nickname has a vaguely unpleasant sound in his ears, but apparently it's meant as a compliment.

https://i.imgur.com/UIey531.jpg?1

To celebrate this great victory (and his wedding with Princess Teresa), Kaisarios decides to throw a great party! Every willing lord and lady in the Kingdoms is invited. Many rebuke this display of good will, and Kaisarios worries that they're starting to conspire again now that the Jihad has been dealt with.

https://i.imgur.com/VoAP9xK.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/bi99T7l.jpg?1

Kaisarios is surprised to find out that the Doux of Dyrrachion, a complete and utter lackwit, is a great fan of boardgames, with dice and miniatures and such. In fact, he has brought one to the party, arousing the curiosity of the other guests. Kaisarios is interested as well, and proposes a little gambling! The baffled Doux can't help but accept.

https://i.imgur.com/JNhE1Ze.jpg?1

”Very well, you approach the Caliph, and he -”
”I slice the Caliph's belly open and wring his guts out!”
”You -”
”I rolled a 20!”
”I... the plot hasn't even started yet!”
”There's a plot?”

The King is deemed to have won, at least to the extent that you can win such a game in the first place.

https://i.imgur.com/RBG0gyI.jpg?1

Indeed, Kaisarios seems to really like the game! They spend almost the entire party playing it, to the confusion of those who expected more drinking and eating. Even after the party, Kaisarios forces his courtiers and even prisoners to play with him. At least he's found a new hobby...

https://i.imgur.com/EwtDZv7.jpg?1

Of course, that doesn't mean he should neglect his other hobbies. like murder! The Doux of Langobardia, his distant cousin, had the audacity to eye the Sicilian throne and refuse his party invitation! He deserves his smelly death.

https://i.imgur.com/KUtKf3V.jpg?1

Kaisarios' Spymaster, while doing his dirty work, also happens to discover an undercover Jewish sect in Athens. The Jews have dwindled into small minorities in all Greek territories, yet they clearly still hold out and plan revenge! Kaisarios decides to finally pass an edict to banish all remaining Israelites from the realm and confiscate their considerable hoards of dirty money to the crown. The money is immediately invested into castles in his loyal vassals' lands.

https://i.imgur.com/dJmPZ88.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Z14Hffv.jpg?1

This reminds him, though, it's about time to continue that jolly tradition of Imperial Reclamation! Kaisarios declares war for Thracesia, a modest but strategically important Duchy that would offer Greece's armies much easier navigation across Anatolia.

https://i.imgur.com/CPBzqs5.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/oSaT8Sn.jpg?1

In another utterly mundane conflict, the area is successfully claimed.

https://i.imgur.com/7ESPfLj.jpg?1

Queen Teresa finally gives Kaisarios a heir, little Tiberios Skleros.

https://i.imgur.com/ObDmH9M.jpg?1

Kaisarios continues his spree of undetected assassinations, eliminating the rebellious and all too powerful Doux of Cyprus with a single strategically placed snake.

https://i.imgur.com/6fY27Is.jpg?1

However, before he can arrange for the Doux of Cilicia's demise, he sends his own ultimatum. The Doux and his conspirators demand that Kaisarios loosen his grasp over their demesnes, as ridiculous and unprecedented as the idea is. However, Kaisarios refuses to be so easily coerced, and sends a very toxic answer (not literally – he wishes he'd thought of that), ending in open rebellion.

https://i.imgur.com/b8FgjPs.jpg?1

The Doukes of Epirus, Achaia, Cibyrrhaeot and Edessa join the resistance, but should be no match for the Royal phalanxes.

https://i.imgur.com/TJok7qr.jpg?1

While the rebels are spread all over the coast, the Kingdoms have no trouble regrouping all their levies and fighting on their own terms. The armies of Achaia and Epirus are the first to go.

https://i.imgur.com/vfSjHIF.jpg?1

The eastern division proves hard to catch in the Anatolian mountains, but ultimately doesn't fare much better.

https://i.imgur.com/gU9UiSE.jpg?1

While the Greek army splits in two to occupy the rebels' territory, the Pope declares the 4th Crusade for Greece on the Khagan. It's unlikely to go much different than the last few times, though.

https://i.imgur.com/JgiHpol.jpg?1

After his capital is taken, the Doux of Cilicia accepts his fate - which he expects to be a heavy fine or something. He and the other rebel leaders are shackled in the Athenian dungeons, and Kaisarios must decide what to do with them.

https://i.imgur.com/HLNI9eT.jpg?1

The King's first instinct is to introduce the whole lot to the Blasphemer's Block, perhaps with a little torture beforehand, but he's advised against it, for their heirs would be even more upset with him and cause a continuous cycle of rebellion. Instead, it is better to remove said heirs from the equation by simply revoking their Duchies and granting them to more loyal Counts in the area. Kaisarios recognizes the truth in these words, and though he is a little disappointed, he can appreciate the shame of having to serve their former vassals. Besides, the new Doukes will be very grateful and doubly loyal. After making the arrangements, Kaisarios goes behind his advisors' backs to throw the five traitors into the darkest hole at the very back of the dungeons. They can all sit there for the rest of their short, miserable lives and think about what they've done.

You do not betray the King of Greece and Sicily.

Anyway, now that this awfully grim business is in the past, Kaisarios decides to remind his other vassals that he is indeed a benevolent and good ruler. What better way to do that than have another party, maybe play some more Synagogues & Sinners?

https://i.imgur.com/VgLxo2C.jpg?1

With a little drink, it's always easier to make friends. Kaisarios spots a less-than-familiar face and becomes surprisingly good friends with him. If only he wasn't the Mayor of a small city in the Holy Land... mayhaps Kaisarios should visit the place more often?

https://i.imgur.com/MGuwNNO.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/zcoDDv1.jpg?1

Speaking of which, Greece is very close to controlling the entire Levantine coast. To that end, a Crusade is declared for Galilee, which lies between Tripoli and Jerusalem.

https://i.imgur.com/jr28HHi.jpg?1

The Emir and his tightly-knit allies can muster a surprisingly effective army, but not big enough to attack Greece head-on.

https://i.imgur.com/rdlC1Rp.jpg?1

The only big battle of the war goes in Greece's favor, as usual.

https://i.imgur.com/ByH351r.jpg?1

Most importantly, the Wahid Sultan – one of the Emir's allies – is captured while leading his men in battle! The enemy is robbed of a great general who'll provide Greece with some more leverage.

https://i.imgur.com/ZfJeJrm.jpg?1

If Kaisarios hadn't ordered his public execution, that is. His little Sultanate has been a thorn in Greece's side in every single war in the area, which alone is reason enough, and Sultan Jalil's death means the realm passes to his young son, perhaps keeping them out of Greece's hair for a moment.

Speaking of dead Muslims, a Shiite sect in Persia has managed to gain prominence and great infamy. In addition to open combat, they specialize in underhanded tactics and outright assassinations. These Hashshashins operate under a simple, completely amoral creed preached by their Old Man of the Mountains and his generous supply of hash. However, at the moment, they're mostly a threat to other Muslims.

https://i.imgur.com/ew95eGY.jpg?1

Galilee is conquered. Only the Tulunids and a small port held by the Sultan of Arabia stand in the way of a completely contiguous coast.

https://i.imgur.com/FOzQLqf.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/90nMn9g.png?1

In Kaisarios' opinion, this calls for celebration! In addition to sending the Brotherhood a generous donation, he wants to arrange another Grand Tournament, similar to the one held by the last King Kaisarios. The renovated Panhellenic Stadium has been waiting for just such an occasion, having only hosted private tzykanion matches and the occasional play for the decades since it was finished.

https://i.imgur.com/V7d9te4.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/DBdsCp5.jpg?1

The Tournament is a great success once again, and some even suggest including a larger variety of sports next time. Markos, a multitalented Steward from the Holy Land and something of a surprise, is ultimately crowned the winner.

https://i.imgur.com/G4NidnJ.jpg?1

Philotheos Skleros, the Marshal of Napoli and a much likelier victor, is quite bitter to have lost the final bout against a bookkeeper ten years his elder. Of course, he blames it on faulty equipment, but no one cares for his excuses.

https://i.imgur.com/Eyn1zTh.jpg?1

Clearly there is something about Jerusalem that breeds champions, for the third place is taken by a Baron from the area. He used to be known for his ineptitude in combat, if anything.

https://i.imgur.com/SE9d4gj.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/YZkCKIw.jpg?1

Little Tiberios is growing up, and though it pains him, Kaisarios must find him a proper Greek tutor. The King recognizes that his own reign would've been much easier if he'd known how to act like a proper native. Laurentios Skleros, Count of Napoli and Steward of Greece, is selected for the job, as he spends most of his time in Atheniai and Tiberios will thus get to stay there too.

https://i.imgur.com/uUt6qU7.jpg?1

The Crusade for Greece is, unsurprisingly, another huge failure.

https://i.imgur.com/0fLXDaR.jpg?1

Queen Teresa dies from the severe complications of her third pregnancy, leaving Kaisarios to remarry for the second time. A rich and hopeful Patrician from Genoa introduces Kaisarios to his daughter Brunilde, who – as he convinces the King – is a worthy choice for her talents alone. Though he meant it literally, Kaisarios might have taken it as innuendo, based on how charmed he is with the girl.

https://i.imgur.com/QxTMDII.jpg?1

Since ten years have passed from the last one, tradition demands another Crusade against the Khagan. Kaisarios wants to keep pushing them further east in Anatolia, so the eponymous Duchy shall be the next target.

https://i.imgur.com/gyZfYuH.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/d3H33yn.jpg?1

Tragically, this war is mostly memorable for the only real defeat in recent Greek history. Due to the conditions of the Anatolian mountains, the army has to split up, but one of these halves is suddenly assaulted by a large enemy force. They expect the mountains to protect them, but the enemy surprisingly breaks through their defenses before reinforcements can arrive and slaughters most of their men. Even the impeccable Phalanx of the Parthenon is shattered in the battle that would be known as the ”Massacre of Ikonion”, and only a few hundred live to tell the tale. Doomsayers prophesize an end to this era of Greek domination, but the majority luckily see it as an individual tragedy.

https://i.imgur.com/fns7vaQ.jpg?1

Said reinforcements luckily manage to avenge these tremendous casualties and send the enemy packing. From there, the war consists of nothing but sieges, and is eventually another victory for Greece, but has definitely left a very bitter taste in the nation's mouths. The conquered Duchy is renamed to Ikonion for clarity's sake, Anatolia being such a commonly used name in military strategy, and in remembrance of the martyrs of the Massacre. There has been very little Khazar cultural influence in the area, but without the Patriarch of Greece's guidance the locals have turned to the Iconoclast heresy for support. Now that they've been saved, they are sure to see the truth soon enough.

For the first time in a long while, a classic dilemma besets the King: returning from a lengthy visit to the conquered region, he finds his wife pregnant and looking guilty. Queen Brunilde claims she's already months pregnant, but Kaisarios isn't convinced. He has no choice but to find out through other means.

https://i.imgur.com/5UX43bg.jpg?1

The spy confirms Kaisarios' suspicions as she finds Brunilde writing a concerned letter to the Count of Tortosa, a notorious womanizer who Kaisarios really doesn't get along with. The dishonored King arranges an immediate divorce with Brunilde and orders the treasonous Count's arrest. That unsuspecting fool walks right into the Phalanx's arms. As much as he'd like to personally chop the bastard's head off, the gracious King ”spares” his life and tosses him into the hole shared by the rotting remains of the five rebels. Seducing the King's wife just to spite him is at least as bad as staging a military uprising.

https://i.imgur.com/hd2CIkJ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/HSwU0vy.jpg?1

Kaisarios is off to find another wife. Princess Irmgard of Bavaria is as good as any, at least netting him an alliance.

https://i.imgur.com/iWvJcQj.jpg?1

Since the armies have recovered and Kaisarios wants to let off some steam, he decides he might as well conquer that single port from the Arabians. Beirut will soon be Greek, and the other Muslims barely notice a secular war. The Abbasid Sultan, already contending with multiple conflicts farther south, stands no chance.

https://i.imgur.com/kYHlD7Y.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/sBZnm35.jpg?1

However, even as Kaisarios watches the armies sail off to certain victory, he knows it's not enough. He has to punish Kallinikos directly. Simply letting him rot in a hole won't do. That pit is barely big enough to move in, he won't miss a limb or two...

https://i.imgur.com/gRRilYp.jpg?1

Kaisarios almost feels a little guilty afterwards, but it's nothing another donation to the good Brothers won't fix.

https://i.imgur.com/wE5yjcL.jpg?1

After that war is easily handled, Kaisarios decides to finally secure the Sinai peninsula too, completing his Reclamation of the coast!

https://i.imgur.com/GYHZN3y.jpg?1

The embarking fleets are a majestic sight, as always.

https://i.imgur.com/71qmrR8.jpg?1

Just as the Greek armies are in the area, a very large rebel network, which has surely remained undercover for quite a while, decides to rise up. Even if the majority of the locals have converted to the Orthodox faith, they still see the Greeks as invaders. Their leader, a prodigious young general, wants to establish an independent Kingdom of Jerusalem! Kaisarios, specifically trying to establish a monopoly on the coast, obviously has no intention to allow any such thing.

https://i.imgur.com/y9QPCkB.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/4xT4Z5f.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/hi9OaDl.jpg?1

The Greeks divert their attention from the Tulunids for just a moment to take care of them. Even with a general as great as Yasar, the rebels cannot stand against Greece's sheer numbers.

https://i.imgur.com/pIk1XP2.jpg?1

The man may be a rebel, but he's a Christian and his cause wasn't entirely unjust. Though Kaisarios would prefer to peruse the hole again, the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre directly asks to have him. They can always use soldiers such as him, and with time he can repent for his crimes. He couldn't rule Jerusalem, but perhaps he can help defend it.

https://i.imgur.com/NB7bU1O.jpg?1

When the Greek army marches for Sinai again, they are surprised to find that the Emir has called the Bektashi Order to his aid. Their skilled cavalry, mounted on horses and camels, are a formidable foe in the rugged desert, evading and harassing the Greeks for days, but eventually their luck runs out and the war is decided near the aptly named Mosque of Sin.

https://i.imgur.com/nUzrPtl.jpg?1

The Kingdoms finally have a Mare Nostra of their own... or at least the beginnings of one! Of course, the Empire still controls those few islands, which will be reclaimed eventually, but they're not the highest priority for Greece's wars against them.

https://i.imgur.com/cAovOvC.jpg?1

Prince Tiberios finally turns 16, ending his apprenticeship under the Steward. He's learned a lot about economics and justice, but most importantly, he speaks Greek like a native – better than many, even!

https://i.imgur.com/MlmFGvF.jpg?1

It's a shame that truce-breaking is considered a crime against God, even when the other party is a filthy infidel – it feels like a huge waste of time to wait so long between wars, each achieving so little, instead of tirelessly continuing God's work. It is, however, also an opportunity to pick up new hobbies. In addition to murder and drinking, Kaisarios has now adopted drinking while something does the murder for him! Falconry is a noble pastime that allows you to get out, handle a majestic bird and watch small animals suffer.

https://i.imgur.com/6Jyp1jL.jpg?1

The 'Teresa Debacle' just may repeat itself, for Queen Irmgard has been afflicted with a suspicious pregnancy as well. Even when his spies return inconclusive, the last incident proved to Kaisarios that his instinct can indeed be trusted, so he tells them to keep looking. The dungeon master is told to clean out the bones to make space in the hole.

https://i.imgur.com/6f8yDIA.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/7G9Vqnw.jpg?1

Only when nothing continues to turn up does he decide that either Irmgard is telling the truth, or the truth is out of his reach right now. It does create quite an awkward mood at his 50th birthday feast, though.

https://i.imgur.com/mBKDs1U.jpg?1

Soon after said party, the King falls terribly ill. For over a year, his condition just keeps worsening and worsening until eventually he's almost like the earlier Kaisarios in his last years. In January 1104, he finally takes his final, pained breath after being unable to even eat for days. What you thought of him really depends on how you knew him. To the public, King Kaisarios II 'the Hammer' was rather nondescript, not fond of publicity but respected for his successes; to his drinking buddies, he was 'the Hammered' and a little eccentric; to his courtiers, well, ”tossed into the hole” remained a common slang phrase long since its origins were forgotten.

https://i.imgur.com/xovKr3o.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/LdEE6Vd.jpg?1

Long live Tiberios Skleros, King of Greece and Sicily, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika, Chalkidike and Jerusalem, Sovereign Lord of Anatolia, Egypt and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/sBF4BOl.jpg?1
Having made the Eastern Mediterranean its private lake, Greece continues to push inland into Anatolia and the Levant. Its Doukes have successfully struck out on their own to conquer Transjordania and the city of Damascus. The Empire has conquered a single Duchy in Armenia but otherwise remained stagnant, practically dead on its feet.

https://i.imgur.com/has4N2e.jpg?1

León's reconquista was initially a success, but after Andalusia finally settled its internal problems, the fragile equilibrium seems to have been restored.

https://i.imgur.com/bKsgRqI.jpg?1

Scandinavia continues to shift: Norway keeps conquering and then losing Denmark, whereas Finland managed to break free from Sweden yet is now overrun with rebels itself. Mordvin Suomenusko Rus has definitely established itself as the dominant power of Eastern Europe, expanding greatly while remaining stable, and is currently trying to push into Sweden.

https://i.imgur.com/IBUkoyG.jpg?1

The Sultanate of Arabia (not to be confused with the other Sultanate of Arabia or the Caliphate of Arabia) conquered much of the peninsula, but its heyday may be over as it is under assault by claimants and separatists from every direction.

https://i.imgur.com/lnriwi2.jpg?1
I'm intentionally trying to avoid getting too good tutors for my kids, but they need Diligent for a better chance of culture conversion.

And yes, I just realized I've been using the word ”assassination” before the Assassins even existed. Sue me. :smallsmile: Speaking of which, I hope this chapter will sate Flickerdart's endless hunger for assassinations, which we've had a serious shortage of.

As a side note, apparently I'm gonna have to conquer the ENTIRE DE JURE EMPIRE before usurping the title, since you ”can't usurp the sole primary title of a character of another religion who still holds land within it”. So that's going to be fun, one Duchy every 10 years...

[Tentreto]

You seemed very lucky with those assassins, no failures, and a different method for each.

I wouldn't be surprised if the assassins looked at Kaisarios for inspiration.

Otherwise, seems to be going okay, now there is a Greek leader, you might have more luck.

BTW are you using DLC such as Charlemagne, which allows you to form empires? I assume sunset invasion is off:smallwink:

[SilverLeaf167]

Yeah, the assassinations went very stealthily, which kinda fits Kaisarios' outwardly friendly image. :smalltongue:

I have all DLC except a few aesthetic ones, but yeah, Sunset Invasion isn't active since it'd probably be detrimental for a game I'm exporting to EU4. I can indeed form Empires, but as mentioned, I'd prefer to usurp and then customize the Byzantine Empire since they have all those extra events and decisions.

[Cristo Meyers]

I have all DLC except a few aesthetic ones, but yeah, Sunset Invasion isn't active since it'd probably be detrimental for a game I'm exporting to EU4.

It just makes the Aztec Empire a major state in the Americas. I think they even have their own ideas and such.


...he was 'the Hammered' and a little eccentric; to his courtiers, well, ”tossed into the hole” remained a common slang phrase long since its origin was forgotten.

Best eulogy yet. :smallbiggrin:

[SilverLeaf167]

Correction: it makes the Aztecs a major state in the Americas, with a couple country-sized colonies in Europe by the time 1444 rolls around. :smallamused:

And thanks, I do try. I feel like I'm doing more and more comedy to make up for some other things possibly getting repetitive.

[Flickerdart]

Yes! More assassinating! Snakes for the snake god! Carriages for the carriage throne!

I also greatly enjoyed "the Hammered" as an epithet.

Are you on good terms with Italy? Conquering them would let you form Italia, which somehow feels suitable since you also created Sicily before Greece. And then the Khagan would feel less bad about getting his stuff wrecked.

Plus, when you finally take Byzantium, you would be double-Emperor, which is pretty awesome, extra-awesome since you would be the Emperor of East and the West Rome, sort of.

[SilverLeaf167]

Eh, to the extent that "good terms" are really a thing. One of the things that annoy me about CK2 is that political interactions are basically limited to marriage alliances that only last a generation or two, but yes, I think there's been a few of those going both ways and stuff. Not like we've ever actually helped in each other's wars. They're one of the two remaining Karling states (Bavaria being the other) and spend most of their time trying to push around Burgundy or Aquitaine.

Again, I'm trying to shy away from recreating Rome or anything, but I could totally see the Hellenic Empire (or its predecessor Greece) invading Italy just as revenge for what the Romans did. :smallwink: After all, I'm always a fan of using millennia-old populist history as propaganda.

(I sometimes wonder if I should set myself some quota on how often I reply to this thread, but otoh I guess quick answers are nice for both parties)

[Flickerdart]

Again, I'm trying to shy away from recreating Rome or anything, but I could totally see the Hellenic Empire (or its predecessor Greece) invading Italy just as revenge for what the Romans did. :smallwink: After all, I'm always a fan of using millennia-old populist history as propaganda.
Conquer Italy, destroy all duchies, and release every ruler as an independent Count or Baron.

[Cristo Meyers]

Conquer Italy, destroy all duchies, and release every ruler as an independent Count or Baron.

Oh god, the mayhem.

I love it!

[SilverLeaf167]

Interesting idea, and definitely cooler than, you know, more blobbing. A monolithic Italy in EU4 is much more boring than all those city-states. I mean, we don't have the HRE and might not get one either, we need to get our baby countries somewhere.
Speaking of which, I think the Republic of Pisa controls a majority of the Italian coast. Not just in terms of trade; directly.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #12: The Kindly Kingmaker (1104-1130)

The 20-year-old Tiberios has turned into quite a wise and virtuous ruler. Perhaps not growing up in a foreign court and country without your family had an effect on that. At least he doesn't take after his father... However, even if he's excellent at administrative matters, he isn't exactly a social genius and will surely have trouble managing huge Greece's equally huge number of vassals. To that end, he'll need skilled help...

https://i.imgur.com/02ZkgcG.jpg?1

As usual, the death of a King of Greece brings literal crowds of suitors to Athens. Tiberios tries to judge them fairly, but a certain German lord and his daughter stand out. He may be only a lowly Baron, though no Kings or such showed up anyway, but Richenza just might be the smartest and loveliest person Tiberios has ever met, even if they can only manage a conversation in Latin. The wedding is arranged a few days later, the other competitors returning home disappointed.

https://i.imgur.com/j7F2dkV.jpg?1

Even though Tiberios isn't really a man of high ambitions, and would even be happy with Greece's current situation, he recognizes his duty to continue the Imperial Reclamation.

https://i.imgur.com/ZrLrBjL.jpg?1

A few of the oldest officers have bad memories of this area, and fear another Massacre of Ikonion.

https://i.imgur.com/uWXqgAa.jpg?1

When the enemy eventually does attack, Greece is prepared. While the thoughtless Khagan sent his whole army on an arduous march through the mountains, losing thousands of soldiers, Greece kept its own divisions spread out until the last moment. Unlike in the Massacre, however, the reinforcements got there in time, and the enemy's reckless charge ended up costing them almost their whole army as they were quite literally stuck between a rock and a hard wall of polearms.

https://i.imgur.com/gkaRhrb.jpg?1

His very first battle being such a nauseating failure, the young Khagan sheepishly accepts Tiberios' demands.

https://i.imgur.com/7JKLOYX.jpg?1

Tiberios soon receives rather more disturbing news, though: the elderly Count Leontios of Limisol has been attempting to seduce his presently pregnant Queen! Even if Tiberios trusts his wife anyway, this cannot be tolerated! He's not his father, of course, and won't be assassinating or tossing anyone into the hole, but will protect his honor and wife if necessary.

https://i.imgur.com/C888UcJ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/YqEeMai.jpg?1

It's even worse, then, to find out that she's been lying with a different Count! She's been here for less than two years for Christ's sake! And she seemed so sweet and honest...

https://i.imgur.com/yoZccJJ.jpg?1

Well, that illusion is certainly broken.

https://i.imgur.com/tY7pK5I.jpg?1

Tiberios just has to suck it up, however, for Richenza carries his heir in her womb and is a vital asset to the realm's administration. Philaretos is born half a year later, but based on the timing, at least he's pretty certain to be Tiberios' son.

https://i.imgur.com/cs1ZN2t.jpg?1

A year passes without much incident. In an event rather similar to what happened with the conquest of the Empire, the Khagan of Khazaria has conquered Albania (itself settled by an earlier Khagan of Khazaria centuries ago) before deciding to make himself its independent ruler instead. Albania had been in a steady decline; perhaps this will provide a little boost.

https://i.imgur.com/PYYlisf.jpg?1

Tiberios also hears that a part of the Duchy of Trebizond has somehow been freed from the Empire's protection. He doesn't really care that much, but his advisors insist that such an easy target should be secured immediately.

https://i.imgur.com/P80zDL6.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/pd3TqZO.jpg?1

Such a small Duchy is easily and uneventfully conquered. However, part of it is still held by the Khagan.

https://i.imgur.com/Y3XKk7w.jpg?1

Tiberios stays in Athens, managing the realm to the best of his ability while occasionally intervening in especially unclear or dramatic trials. This one certainly fits the former criterion, though Tiberios finds it quite obvious: the man is guilty beyond any reasonable doubt, but not quite so indisputably that he'd feel comfortable hanging the man, so off into the dungeons he goes. The whispered words ”into the hole”, heard from the audience and followed by a little snicker, earn an audible grumble from him.

https://i.imgur.com/F0csrh2.jpg?1

In December 1108, having brought Tiberios one child and three adultery scandals, Richenza dies of a mysterious illness. He eventually finds a candidate from within the Kingdoms. Georgia is rumored not to have much interest in men, but at this point, Tiberios considers that a plus.

https://i.imgur.com/qhQr7e4.jpg?1

Suddenly another revolt springs up in Jerusalem! These rebels want independence, too, but even worse, they're from the southern parts, which are still Muslim! The army is mobilized immediately.

https://i.imgur.com/FbPZTPR.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/jm0AENe.jpg?1

The Greeks take their time groupin, but it's not like the rebels are penetrating Jerusalem's walls anytime soon. They have free reign for a full 6 months before the army finally attacks, yet cause the city no real damage. They are almost wiped out in one battle and cleaned up afterwards.

https://i.imgur.com/hjTOjRb.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ksPDIyZ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/TkW0Ga9.jpg?1

This Radhi character is another very skilled soldier, but unlike Yasar, he's an unrepentant Muslim and thus beyond the Brotherhood's mercy. The Blasphemer's Block gets a visitor for the first time in Tiberios' reign, reserved for important executions ordered by the King himself.

The bloody murder case from a while back, considered long since solved, becomes relevant again as a very similar case springs up nearby and it seems that the first peasant wasn't guilty after all. At least he wasn't executed... this little hiccup reflects poorly on Tiberios, but really doesn't matter that much among all the other work he does.

https://i.imgur.com/p1aMglO.jpg?1

Tiberios does feel like trying something else for once, though, so he decides to delegate some of his other administrative duties and focus on business for a change. The Skleroi haven't had much time for it ever since they became Kings, and the realm really isn't lacking in money, but perhaps it will bring some variety to his days.

https://i.imgur.com/zbM8s1Q.jpg?1

Some of his pursuits are seemingly petty, like supporting a Carpenters' Guild based in Jerusalem (how appropriate), but still bring pleasure to him and benefits to the realm.

https://i.imgur.com/tuQBLGr.jpg?1

Tiberios' Steward and old mentor Laurentios suggests a trade expedition into foreign lands; despite the Crusades, Greece has actually been quite isolationist lately, not interacting with the rest of the world that much. Tiberios is interested in the idea, letting Laurentios handle the details.

https://i.imgur.com/vooRc7U.jpg?1

Tiberios is a little surprised to hear that Laurentios' choice of target lies in the Mahrid Sultanate of Oman, but the Steward assures him that these distant Bedouins bear them no ill will. They do their best to get along, offering each other magnanimous gifts as is customary. Tiberios' priestly passengers behave almost childishly, but he keeps them in check.

https://i.imgur.com/ETml5fs.jpg?1

Indeed, the deal is successful, and Greece manages to secure its cut of the wares traveling through the Strait of Hormuz. The profit made may not be as impressive as it once would've been, but the King feels like he's learned a lot.

https://i.imgur.com/7xl3N1r.jpg?1

The Duchy of Tripoli, having already conquered Damascus years ago, pushes ever farther east. They're basically at the gates of Baghdad already, but their overextension may be a risk in the future.

https://i.imgur.com/GN3sZQ6.jpg?1

Other than that, there's a years-long lull in the fighting, so it might be appropriate to look at the two most important military orders within the Kingdoms.

The Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre continues to grow and prosper as Orthodox lords from all over the realm send volunteers and prisoners to join them. Though their heart and soul obviously lies in Jerusalem, where they hold a considerable amount of lands and forts, their administrative center is actually in Torcello, Venetia, where they have quite the respectable castle and better connections. They've been allowed to build bases in many faithful rulers' territory in Greece, Anatolia and especially Sicily, which harbors great distrust for its Muslim neighbors across the narrow sea. The Brothers do surprisingly little actual fighting, but instead spend most of their time promoting the Church, keeping the everyday peace in dangerous regions, protecting pilgrims and merchants on the road or just trying to look holy.

https://i.imgur.com/5bJGzQg.jpg?1

In the almost 170 years since its creation, the Phalanx of the Parthenon has changed quite a bit. Originally founded by Doux Kallinikos as a ceremonial palace guard, under Kaisarios II they underwent considerable reforms, turning more and more into an elite fighting force. Their numbers have increased radically from the initial 300 to a whole 5000, almost half of them heavy Cataphracts, and there are even more in peacetime roles. Their great numbers allow them to still fulfill their old duties as royal guards, escorts and personal enforcers to the King, to whom they owe their direct and unbreakable loyalty. They're known for their flamboyant uniforms, every suit a display of the Kingdoms' great wealth adorned with crosses and the Skleroi's olive tree heraldry, even their more practical combat wear remaining very recognizable.

https://i.imgur.com/4QuRcqA.jpg?1

In 1115, Tiberios is surprised and frustrated to see that the Count of Limisol, that womanizing bastard, is still alive and kicking. He's even audacious enough to waltz into his palace and accuse a loyal Doux of treason. Tiberios isn't exactly inclined to believe him, especially as his only evidence is a bunch of letters, almost too incriminating to be real. With a mischievous smirk on his usually solemn face, Tiberios arrests the Count for conspiracy and slander of a higher noble. The man's expression alone is worth it.

https://i.imgur.com/gWFVw5M.jpg?1

The King is almost tempted to let him spend his last years in the dungeon – he's already lived far too long, anyway – but ultimately decides to let him out after a few days and a heavy fine. After all, even if Tiberios despises him, he hardly sees his pathetic attempt at a crime as worthy of death.

https://i.imgur.com/Sppxsp2.jpg?1

The 10-year truce with the Khagan is over, and even if Tiberios has little interest in random crusades, he does want to continue the Imperial Reclamation in Anatolia.

https://i.imgur.com/2hnXgks.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/sdPkEi3.jpg?1

Meanwhile, the Sunni have finally gotten tired of Jewish Bukhara pushing them around and decided to declare a proper Jihad for Persia. The Khagan's mighty armies are currently busy elsewhere, so the Muslims may actually have an opportunity here. It is ultimately a failure, though, like all similar wars in the past.

https://i.imgur.com/4Zrj14n.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/AWoUL8J.jpg?1

Tiberios' commanders manage to avoid fighting in the accursed mountains, defeating the enemy on open terrain instead and besieging the desired area. Tiberios is more interested in the peculiar news that Romanos Skleros, his kinsman and a claimant of the Kingdom of Italy on his mother's side, has managed to raise an army of ambitious allies and intends to press his claim. Winning such a throne would bring great glory to the Skleros dynasty – and the Orthodox faith...

https://i.imgur.com/aL8lCJ3.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/WhEtwaW.jpg?1

Indeed, even the otherwise ambitionless King is intrigued by the idea. He orders his commanders to wrap up the current war as soon as possible, and once they do, he declares his intention to join Romanos' invasion!

https://i.imgur.com/acTc2UL.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/SQR0T3s.jpg?1

The armies are already raised and gathered, so all he needs to do is summon the fleet and ferry them over to Italy. King Guido II is fighting a long and arduous war against Germany for some petty County in Lotharingia, so his army is both diminished and distracted. In addition, the army he does have available seems to prefer marching back and forth instead of trying to go for Romanos' weaker army down south.

https://i.imgur.com/TxMkorn.jpg?1

The Greeks are left to conduct their sieges in peace, after which they cunningly sacrifice a few scouts to lure the aimless Italians into an ambush in the Apennine Mountains. Some manage to escape their trap, but the enemy's only real force is now irrevokably devastated.

https://i.imgur.com/6kqZSz3.jpg?1

As the Greek army splits up to assault the capital and raid the coast, King Guido II has no choice but to surrender his prestigious crown to Romanos, this upstart nephew of his. Italy has been returned to its rightful status as a de facto Greek colony!

https://i.imgur.com/0VsP1tZ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Rb9DO8v.jpg?1

Of course, the Greek grasp on Italy is very weak at the moment, since Italy's new King has very little personal power and the local Catholic lords are none too happy with his faith or culture, but with Greece's support they should be able to stay afloat.

https://i.imgur.com/pCOIZZN.jpg?1

The coronation has more guards than guests, but everything goes well. The Patriarch of Italy is assigned, bringing Orthodoxy to the Kingdom. As thanks for Greece's continued support and to ensure future peace, Romanos graciously hands over the last de jure County in Sicily, which is promptly integrated into the Duchy of Neapolis. May this be the beginning of a beautiful alliance and the spread of the faith outside Greece's borders!

https://i.imgur.com/lFsNc53.jpg?1

To celebrate, Tiberios decides to organize a tournament at the Panhellenic Stadium.

https://i.imgur.com/Jsb96Kg.jpg?1

Just as the call is being sent out, he receives news that the reckless Romanos has declared war on the Pope himself, hoping to conquer Rome! While this would obviously be a great victory for the Orthodox faith, the Skleroi of Greece have intentionally delayed it to avoid enraging all the Catholics of the world at the same time. The Skleros of Italy clearly thinks differently.

https://i.imgur.com/uCTllzk.jpg?1

Tiberios won't join the invasion, and Romanos probably won't need him anyway. However, when Italy's disgruntled nobles suddenly rise up to resist Romanos' "tyranny", the Greek army marches to his aid. The Grand Tournament continues in Athens, but Tiberios has no time to pay attention.

https://i.imgur.com/7zI5WGS.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/9ZfL7sP.jpg?1

The rebels achieve some early victories against Italy, but when Greece arrives, a surprisingly evenly matched battle follows near the capital. Half of the participating Greek force lies dead, but the enemy has been almost completely defeated.

https://i.imgur.com/SIo3Lvb.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/KdEkEu9.jpg?1

After two years of fighting and tremendous bloodshed on both sides, Italy is once again ”stable”. Hopefully Romanos knows what to do with the disloyal Dukes (he doesn't, preferring to castrate or blind them and then return them to their duties). Of course, his war against the Papacy has been pretty much ruined, but that may be for the best.

https://i.imgur.com/PQBK7ne.jpg?1

Prince Philaretos turns 16, and Tiberios can't really claim to be impressed with him. He's been raised at court by the King himself and given lessons by his advisors, focusing on diplomacy and stewardship, but all he seems to be interested in is theology, literature and food.

https://i.imgur.com/5hOWpfV.jpg?1

The Pope, probably emboldened by his earlier victory (to little merit of his own), declares a Crusade for Croatia against the Khagan. Few are holding their breaths.

https://i.imgur.com/JPThPZw.jpg?1

The Levantine people of Alexandretta, near Antioch, have had enough of their homeland's Greek occupiers and want independence. However, unlike the ones in Jerusalem, these rebels don't even have any military officers to train and lead them, and their ”army” is small besides. Even their ”brave leader” is just a former infantry grunt.

https://i.imgur.com/odP00tP.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/KlWMN50.jpg?1

Just the local Doukes alone are more than capable of handling them.

https://i.imgur.com/f0NO2pX.jpg?1

His spirits utterly crushed by this humiliating defeat, the rebel leader is too pathetic for even the Brothers to take, so the Block will have him instead.

https://i.imgur.com/uRmDkEY.jpg?1

Philaretos asks to get married. Remembering his own youth, Tiberios allows it, but he has his quiet doubts of the boy's competence, so he'll need a wife capable of assisting him. Eudokia Eparchos, the daughter of a Venetian Patrician with some experience of her own, seems like a good choice.

https://i.imgur.com/pQ00myo.jpg?1

The Crusade seems to be going surprisingly well, prompting Romanos to contest the war and declare his own for the same area. It might be a pretty close race, both armies being in good condition.

https://i.imgur.com/jzXb6Ga.jpg?1

For the first time in a long while, the indiscriminate scythe of consumption sweeps through the Athenian court. King Tiberios himself is inflicted with the disease, the high fever bringing him to the brink of madness. Even after the illness itself has passed, he doesn't seem... quite normal.

https://i.imgur.com/HCbiQ6R.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/JmnxRD5.jpg?1

After leaving Tiberios, the curse moves to Philoteros. He recovers quickly, to everyone's relief.

The Pope ends up winning the contest for Croatia... or, to be more specific, the Knights Hospitaller do. They have proven themselves in battle and earned themselves the entire Kingdom of Croatia. Any power taken away from the Jews is a good thing, but such a large realm ruled by Catholic Knights so nearby may get a little... strange. Tiberios wonders what the Brothers in neighboring Venetia will think.

https://i.imgur.com/Eq4PGjQ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/t1etvix.jpg?1

As Tiberios' truce ends, it's Greece's turn to go on a Crusade again.

https://i.imgur.com/i6jyA6w.jpg?1

When his half-brother Andronikos – who has no land, no wife, no children, no job – watches the garrison of Athens stomp off to war, he is struck by inspiration. He wants to join the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre and finally do something useful in life! Tiberios doesn't have the heart to forbid him. Maybe he can work as a... clerk, or something.

https://i.imgur.com/HPWyzM0.jpg?1

Romanos invades Rome again (nomen est omen). Perhaps this time will be less unlucky (he gets himself captured in the first battle).

https://i.imgur.com/Ic7q9gJ.jpg?1

The Khagan is aiding his fellow Jews of Szekelyföld in a civil war, so the Greeks can march into his territory with even less opposition than usual. It takes over a year for them to show up for their first battle, which they of course lose.

https://i.imgur.com/4TNTeDw.jpg?1

The courtiers at Athens thought that Tiberios' fever hallucinations had long since ended, being but a side effect of the sickness. However, in the middle of a lovely evening, he suddenly gets the barely-controlled urge to run outside, strip naked and howl like a wolf. Either the consumption afflicted his brain permanently, or maybe he's gone mad just because. Either option doesn't really reflect well on his abilities as a ruler.

https://i.imgur.com/rlZPgYL.jpg?1

Rumors travel quickly, and the messenger bringing word of the Khagan's defeat half expects to find the King scratching his ear with his foot. He isn't, but does look rather perturbed, and can clearly guess the envoy's thoughts. Hopefully it was just an isolated incident after all, for a dog is not fit to sit a throne...

https://i.imgur.com/5GvfUF2.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/3fahR5a.jpg?1

With very bad timing, Queen Georgia dies of illness. Their marriage was never one of love, and Georgia outright refused his intimacy, but Tiberios will still mourn her greatly. He definitely isn't at his most confident, yet he needs a new wife to help him with daily matters, now more than ever.

Tiberios is still thoroughly humiliated and needs something to cheer him up. That's when it hits him: he will build the most phall- uh, fantastic tower in all of Athens, one whose shadow will touch both ends of the city! For once he'll do something people will remember. It will be costly, and he insists on participating in the design process, but surely it'll be fine.

https://i.imgur.com/MM1QfMs.jpg?1

Many seem incredulous at the King's plans, especially given his current condition, but something still tells them he just might succeed.

https://i.imgur.com/jTEOWUN.jpg?1

His kinsman Kallistos, the fresh Grandmaster of the Brotherhood, sends his regards and wishes him luck. The relatively recent recruit Andronikos is next in line for the office, his prestigious connections probably helping somewhat.

https://i.imgur.com/4AE9tIw.jpg?1

Speaking of relatives, King Romanos of Italy has died of wounds received in his latest war, but his son – or the boy's regency council, rather – has declared another Crusade for the Khagan's remaining territories on the Adriatic Coast.

https://i.imgur.com/eIJd6fZ.jpg?1

Boethios Bryennios, the famous architect and something of a diva Tiberios hired to build his tower, asks for more and more funding, but the King is obsessed with his plans and doesn't even mind.

https://i.imgur.com/0s9qauF.jpg?1

Bryennios doesn't seem like a particularly watchful overseer, either, allowing many workers to get hurt during the construction. Tiberios, again, doesn't mind at all, just eager to see his tower rise.

https://i.imgur.com/Xrsuorn.jpg?1

A zealous Bishop hears of the tower and personally arrives at court just to rant at Tiberios. He speaks of Babel and the way to Heaven and hubris and blasphemy and at that point the King isn't even listening anymore. He hadn't even thought of it that way, but now that the man mentions it, buying a stairway to Heaven isn't a bad idea at all! Of course, he can't allow anyone to know of such impiety. Not even this priest who accidentally suggested it.

https://i.imgur.com/MvVmmQ6.jpg?1

However, just as Tiberios is about to shove this snooper off the tower, he suddenly turns around, notices the crazed King and dodges without even realizing what's happening. Tiberios stumbles and falls off the edge, splattering right in the middle of the busy market. The utterly terrified Bishop isn't even blamed, the King's guards knowing full well how mad their ruler was at this point. On the 6th of June 1330, the 44-year-old King is said to have died in a tragic accident, and the construction of the tower is called off. Everyone prefers to remember him as 'the Wise', who earned his subjects' respect without any need for constant conflict. It seems that few men remain respectable to the very end. Tiberios' tower did end up leaving quite a legacy; the idiom ”wolf king's tower”, meaning an ambitious plan doomed to fail and take everyone down with it.

https://i.imgur.com/9xqsB9l.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/2mGgieV.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ye8XNf9.jpg?1

Long live Philaretos Skleros, King of Greece and Sicily, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika, Chalkidike and Jerusalem, Sovereign Lord of Anatolia, Egypt and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/tI87ZgI.jpg?1
The Khagan's power continues to dwindle at an increasing rate as other states besides Greece have finally proven capable of taking him on. Besides their Aegean islands, they basically only hold Armenia, Bulgaria and Serbia, the latter even currently at risk of being chopped in half by the Italians.

https://i.imgur.com/x9xHZfr.jpg?1

Queen Leofwynn has finally managed to break the long stalemate between England and Scotland and push a little further north. However, a ducal rebellion managed to install elective succession, which may ultimately make the Kingdom much less stable.

https://i.imgur.com/VHQPJAG.jpg?1

Pomerania managed to conquer Bohemia from the Templars, somewhat making up for the Hospitallers' sudden rise, and Silesia comes ever closer to uniting Poland, while both states have adopted the Wallensian heresy. Szekelyföld has managed to expand into Ruthenia, but faces constant civil wars for its troubles.

https://i.imgur.com/6aDgSlU.jpg?1

Denmark broke free of Norway, which finally managed to modernize somewhat and adopt a proper feudal system. It may, conversely, make them more stable and capable of actually holding any territory they might conquer in the future. Finland remains incomprehensible, and Rus has started to crumble too.

https://i.imgur.com/hOdQvCA.jpg?1

Bukhara's winning streak seems to be over, for even though the Jihad was a failure, Persia and the Pratihara have still managed to start pushing them back north. Bukhara's momentous contact with the Indian Ocean was ultimately quite brief.

https://i.imgur.com/4aDRqQW.jpg?1
Believe me, a roleplayer's heart doesn't exactly flutter when he sees a 20-year-old Content ruler. It does reduce blobbing, though, and at least he died relatively young...

Sorry not sorry for another Genius wife, but look at her stats! You don't just skip a catch like that! She died soon anyway, and the heir sucked...

However, I'm gracious enough to ask for your permission regarding a couple of things:
If Italy does conquer Rome, can I mod the game so I don't need to hold Rome personally just to mend the schism? After all, my Orthodox dynasty member should be more than enough, and it would be pretty weird to attack him for such a gamey reason. Same thing if I end up giving Jerusalem to the Brotherhood at some point, though at least that's my own decision.
Can I forcibly (with the console, that is) usurp the Byzantine Empire once I have complete control of Greece, Anatolia and Armenia (7 duchies + random islands left in these areas), or do you want an extra 100+ years of nondescript wars and faffing about? 'Cuz that's how many duchies they'll still have left. :smallamused: I honestly have very little interest in the Balkans, except to eventually release them as Orthodox states, and can't really see them as ”traditionally Greek areas” or anything. Personally I'd consider the full conquest of these three kingdoms enough to declare the Imperial Reclamation complete; after all, they're all the Empire had at the time of the invasion.
When it comes to AARs, I think most people prefer the narrative over minute mechanical details, but I decided to make sure anyway and will respect the majority decision. I myself find it interesting when people use the console for more interesting mutual treaties etc. but I recognize that some might see these as lazy cheats.

[Eldan]

I say go ahead. Skleroi on the thrones Rome and Constantinople should be more than enough.

[Cristo Meyers]

I say go ahead. Skleroi on the thrones Rome and Constantinople should be more than enough.

Same here. There's no reason I can think of to not do it that way. Why wouldn't they take the opportunity to consolidate power like that?

Same for Byzantium. Once you take Constantinople then there's really no reason you shouldn't be considered the Emperor. You own most, if not all, of de jure Byzantium by now.

[SilverLeaf167]

-snip- You own most, if not all, of de jure Byzantium by now.
That's the thing; if I did control the entire Empire, I could just usurp it legitimately without the console, but de jure Byzantium also includes Bulgaria, Serbia and Croatia, as annoying as it is. Probably just to encourage historical expansion in the AI...

[Flickerdart]

Agreed. I like the turn of events with a Skleros Italy without us having to personally be there, although we ought to try and ruin it anyway before EUIV starts.

[SilverLeaf167]

To be frank, all we need is a good excuse not to help in their next inevitable civil war. :smallwink: It'll go downhill from there. Most of the Italians will turn Orthodox when we mend the schism anyway, Romanos just made things a bit more interesting. As a side note, I'm currently writing Greek names for all of EU4's Italian provinces, so I suppose I'm being kinda optimistic anyway. :smallbiggrin:

[Eldan]

Been a while since I played CKII. There's no way to force the empire to release those nations into independence, is there?

(Honestly, I think this game needs an update badly. It's fun, sure, but political options are just so limited in many ways.)

[Sallera]

I think about the best one could do is hope the title exists, try to sabotage their relations with the Khagan (which as I recall is highly luck-based, even with a decent chancellor), and lend a hand in the rebellion if they go for independence. Pretty iffy all-round.

Edit: Oh, and I don't mind console use, as long as it's done sparingly, and I trust your judgement in that regard.

[OrcusMcP]

Speaking as someone who has been using the console to get around the engine slightly in their own LP, I say some console is just fine. :smallwink:

[Cristo Meyers]

That's the thing; if I did control the entire Empire, I could just usurp it legitimately without the console, but de jure Byzantium also includes Bulgaria, Serbia and Croatia, as annoying as it is. Probably just to encourage historical expansion in the AI...

Ah, shows how much I know. Could've sworn the border was further south.

Still: take Constantinople, console-usurp Empire.

One other thing I thought of that might be kinda interesting is to make Constantinople a Merchant Republic if you can. It'd be different, if anything.

[Rockphed]

Ah, shows how much I know. Could've sworn the border was further south.

Still: take Constantinople, console-usurp Empire.

One other thing I thought of that might be kinda interesting is to make Constantinople a Merchant Republic if you can. It'd be different, if anything.

Part of why I read Let's Plays is because I do not have the time or patience (or ownership of the game) to play through games and I want to see how the games go. So I prefer not to read about "well, then I cheated thing x and I cheated thing y, but it made a better story".

An important question is, "what does the Khagan personally own?" If he becomes unlanded, doesn't the title vanish? I don't know how much of the empire you currently own, or how much you need to reform it, but that could be an interesting way to speed up the reclamation without using the console. Honestly, I am surprised you haven't been targeting his territories until he was unlanded. Would he have just started revoking titles of people to fill out his desmense?

If there is really no way to reclaim the empire short of 100 years of truces or the console, then by all means use the console. As has been said, the waiting game is rather boring. You could probably get more wars in, but that would lead to incredible blobbing, which we probably want to avoid lest EU4 become incredibly easy.

As to modding the game to allow mending the schism, you still need to get the pope as a vassal, right? What is your plan there? I think that having the counties owned by members of your dynasty is a perfectly acceptable mod.

And a Merchant Republic in Constantinople would be cooler if there weren't already 5 castles in the territory. As it is, don't we already have Venice as a vassal? How many vassal republics can you have?

[SilverLeaf167]

An important question is, "what does the Khagan personally own?" If he becomes unlanded, doesn't the title vanish? I don't know how much of the empire you currently own, or how much you need to reform it, but that could be an interesting way to speed up the reclamation without using the console. Honestly, I am surprised you haven't been targeting his territories until he was unlanded. Would he have just started revoking titles of people to fill out his desmense?
If the top liege becomes unlanded, he automatically revokes something from his vassals. To usurp an Empire from an infidel, I need to control 80% and they need to control 0%.


As to modding the game to allow mending the schism, you still need to get the pope as a vassal, right? What is your plan there? I think that having the counties owned by members of your dynasty is a perfectly acceptable mod.
I don't need to vassalize the Pope per se, just control the county. That's a simple claim war.


And a Merchant Republic in Constantinople would be cooler if there weren't already 5 castles in the territory. As it is, don't we already have Venice as a vassal? How many vassal republics can you have?
Actually, Constantinople has 3 castles, 1 temple and 3 cities, so it could be a pretty kickass Republic. They'd have to compete with Venice though... but the idea seems kinda fun anyway. A Theocracy under the Patriarch would make sense too. I think the only limit on vassal republics is "up to 10% of your land" which we're far from reaching.

[SilverLeaf167]

SPECIAL #3: The Kaisariad (2015)

The Kingdoms of Kaisarios, commonly known as The Kaisariad, was written by the Thessalian poet Audakios sometime around the 1120's and initially published with the help of an Athenian monastery, though only really popularized with the arrival of the printing press centuries later. Very little is known of this Audakios' life today, but The Kaisariad – his only known work – has since left a tremendous mark on Greek culture and all of Western literature. Even if you haven't read it, you've definitely heard of it, and probably know at least something about its plot. In this informal report, we take a look at this epic work from a historical and artistic viewpoint. There have been translations upon translations, not to mention adaptations (including another upcoming movie with another tie-in videogame), but we will analyze the version accepted as most faithful to the source.

Audakios' book is often compared to the great epics of Homer, even though well over a millennium passed between their writing. Indeed, while Audakios' style was vastly different from Homer's, or anyone's for that matter, they still share some similarities in content and significance. However, The Kaisariad has a much closer and clearer connection to history and is ultimately much less mythical, making it extremely fertile ground for literary analysis. Audakios wrote his epic only 60 years after its real-life subject's passing, allowing him to consult a variety of relatively accurate sources, including many second-hand stories and rumoredly even Kaisarios' own incomplete memoirs, giving him a very good base to build his story on.

Part of The Kaisariad's importance comes from its groundbreaking mixing of genre. The story begins with the tragic news that the 6-year Kaisarios II Skleros (usually referred to without the numeral) has lost his father, the Duke of Athens, to illness and inherited the realm for himself. Though Audakios mentions no dates, we know that this happened in the year 1006. Audakios keeps the focus on Kaisarios' life with his bastard cousin and father figure Laurentios as they survey the realm, oppressed by Jewish conquerors from outside the Byzantine Empire (note: many experts prefer the name ”Baranjar Empire” for this time period). They have many debates about philosophy, religion and politics in a manner quite unrealistic for such a young boy, placing a lot of emphasis on Athens' position as the last bastion of the Eastern Orthodox Church, as it was at the time. The crisis is somewhat exaggerated by the exclusion of the imperial population's Orthodox majority, as they lived under Jewish lords. These debates are a fascinatingly detailed combination of prose and sheer poetry, probably concocted by Audakios himself but still an interesting view into the period's political climate. The Baranjar oppressor is usually referred to only by his title of Khagan (χαγαν), but also by many other unpleasant euphemisms and outright insults. Kaisarios is taught about the Duchy's escalating attempts to break free from the Empire, foreshadowing his own fate.

The story jumps forward a bit to show Laurentios leading an army in battle against the Pope himself, a matured Kaisarios following close by. Audakios offers no explanation for this turn of events, but other sources reveal a series of failed (and often forgotten) crusades against the Empire, which Athens might have fought against in order to protect its own interests. Here Audakios gives a lot of love to the Greek soldiers' attire, demeanor and glory in battle, especially those of the Duke's elite guard known as the Phalanx of the Parthenon. His relatively brief descriptions of actual combat are nonetheless very gorily detailed. Quite out of nowhere, Laurentios is killed in a heroic last stand – slaying the Pope in some editions of the story, though historical records are strongly against it – leaving young Kaisarios to give a tragic monologue before leading the army to glorious victory with expertise that is, once again, quite strange for a mere teenager.

Now fully in charge of Athens and its army, Kaisarios is said to rather quickly unite the petty lords of Sicily (note: Sicily historically also included the southern part of the Apennine peninsula) and declare himself the King of Sicily. Most estimates place this so-called Edict of Malta on 6th of March, 1019, the 70th anniversary of the Baranjar invasion. A lot of space is dedicated to various speeches about Kaisarios' greatness, both by himself and others, and his promised fate. Here, savvy readers can notice elements of ancient Greek mythology blending with Christianity, for the young king is lauded as a divinely imbued hero (using the ancient word usually reserved for legendary demigods such as Heracles or Theseus), sent from Heaven to liberate the suffering Christians from Jewish tyranny. Some may feel uncomfortable with the seeming anti-Semitism in many parts of The Kaisariad, and it is especially prominent in some of these speeches, but it is important to remember the work's origin in a period when the Jews really did rule much of Europe and Central Asia with an iron fist.

Much more of the same follows as King Kaisarios conquers his way across his native Greece. His incredible skill as a military commander is praised to high heaven by ally and enemy alike, as is his fearless and always righteous nature. He hosts another grand ceremony to declare himself the Greeks' rightful ruler as well; indeed, both in the book and otherwise, he and his successors would be primarily known as Kings of Greece from here on, with Sicily as but a footnote. It is likely that Audakios' story suffers from some timing issues, as experts place at least 12 years between the Edict of Malta and this Congress of Athens. The various speeches and debates may get somewhat repetitive in modern eyes, but continue to increase in flamboyance. In many circles, this part of the epic has been considered a thinly-veiled guide on rhetoric, but it's also widely respected in its role as such.

Kaisarios then almost immediately (in terms of the narrative) declares his independence from the cruel Khagan and rides off to war to secure it. The unified Greek armies are depicted as an unstoppable force, effortlessly cutting down swathes of the Empire's weak-willed infidels, bolstered by their great zeal. Audakios implies hundreds of thousands of Greek warriors, while historians place the maximum at a few dozen thousand. The King himself leads from the front, shouting orders while skewering foes with one hand and waving a banner with the other. Though it is known that the war was over unusually quickly, Audakios writes that Kaisarios literally rides through the walls of Constantinople and straight into the throne room. In this segment, the work suddenly shows shades of comedy, as Kaisarios deftly castrates the Khagan with a thrown dagger and humiliates him with a verbal barrage of humorous insults while the palace guards do nothing but watch. Kaisarios and his army then ride home as free men.

What follows is a very lengthy portion often known as ”Kaisarios' Labors”, as a reference to Heracles, and even though Kaisarios isn't really doing labors for anyone, Audakios does describe many heroic quests of various magnitudes. It's unclear where Kaisarios finds time to actually rule his liberated realm. Though historical support has been found for some of them, most agree that they're highly embellished and at least a few are definitely apocryphal, not to mention their vague timing. Some could possibly be placed in the decade-long gap mentioned above.

Either way, Kaisarios' adventures include fighting a dramatic duel for his sister's honor against the Fat King of Germania, selflessly saving his mortal enemy from a hellish monster bear, winning his own grand tourney while wearing an iron mask, taming the mythical Cerberus to act as his hunting dog, going on a country-wide search for a new queen, having a wrestling match with the Khagan and declaring three separate crusades across the Mediterranean, which receive strangely little attention in comparison to their historical importance. What proves the most critical, however, is his hunt for the elusive White Stag, a strangely common figure in medieval folklore. He spends years searching for the magical beast, having heard that whoever proves his worth by slaying it is destined to receive God's favor – another element quite unheard of in Christian canon but abundant in mythology. However, his efforts prove fruitless time after time, until as an old man he one day comes across the house of a fortune teller in the woods. The ancient woman gives him a mysterious potion which, directly translated from the original Greek, ”will change his luck”. Kaisarios takes it as a sign that he'll finally find the Stag, whereas the reader might find it somewhat ominous.

It's known that the real Kaisarios waged multiple wars against the Khagan, gradually conquering his rightful holdings, but in his final campaign he was severely wounded and fell into a coma, from which he didn't awaken before his death a few years later. Audakios' view is rather different: the vile Khagan made a deal with the Devil himself. The Devil disguised itself as the White Stag in order to lure Kaisarios to the hut, where it turned into a witch and poisoned him, cursing the King to suddenly fall unconscious in the middle of battle and never to awaken. Make your own conclusions. Many like to say that Kaisarios' death, again, somehow mirrors that of Heracles. That might say more about Greek culture enthusiasts than about Kaisarios.

The King of Greece and Sicily's death is treated as a nation-wide tragedy, which it very well may have been in history as well. The Kaisariad ends with a famous and rather lengthy poem about the inevitability of fate, which Kaisarios wakes up just to recite with his last breath before ”joining his Lord Jesus Christ in death”. That is the final passage; no mention is made of the King's rather less famous son Staurakios, returning home to rule after his death, or what happened to his realm since. The majority of editions do include a few psalms at the back of the book, some of them generic but one devoted to Kaisarios in particular, surprisingly popular in Greece to this day. It's believed that these were added by the monks publishing the epic, in an attempt to better tie it to Kaisarios' recently announced position as a saint of the Orthodox faith.

Indeed, whatever one thinks of Audakios' writing or the actual tale, its sheer diversity is amazing. It predates the Divine Comedy, Canterbury Tales, Don Quixote and other such hallmarks of late medieval literature by centuries. It is an epic story about one of the most important individuals in Greek history, and (unfortunately) served as one of the main historical sources about his life for a long time. Its stories are wildly exaggerated, yet there is a clear seed of truth to them, and it is fascinating to watch as Audakios entwines real history, classical myth, religious canon and his very own imagination into a coherent whole.

Audakios was undeniably centuries ahead of his time, and it is a great shame that he remains shrouded in mystery to this day. Even his name may very well be a pseudonym. Some have suggested that he may have been a Skleros - a blood relative of Kaisarios - or perhaps just another monk. If there is conclusive evidence, or even anything but vague hints, it remains yet to be found; but whoever did write The Kingdoms of Kaisarios deserves credit for a tremendous part of our modern culture.
How nerdy is it to be a halfway fanboy of your own videogame character? :smalltongue: I love this pseudo-historical way of writing, though, and will probably use it in some future specials. This AAR gives me a lot of excuses for creativity.

[Eldan]

well, he is awesome. Which is something the game is quite good at, creating impressive characters.

[SilverLeaf167]

Paradox being Paradox, the game refused to work for a couple days, but after a lot of fiddlin' and headdeskin' I managed to fix it. Debugging things manually is so draining, especially when the game refuses to give you any error messages, but very satisfying when you finally succeed. :smallbiggrin: As if this had been a "long" break or something... the next chapter should come online tomorrow.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #13: The Simple Scholar (1130-1144)

Young Philaretos is, to be frank, quite a mediocre ruler. He may be a somewhat better diplomat than his late father, as if that were an achievement, but much worse at actual administration and dismal at the more subtle and underhanded side of politics; it's like he doesn't realize it exists. The King doesn't even seem all that interested in ruling, preferring to indulge in literature, theology and food. He tends to spend lavishly on both himself and others.

https://i.imgur.com/EZnTHcz.jpg?1

Even his arranged wife Eudokia doesn't like him that much, disliking his careless and indulgent nature. She has yet to bear him an heir, either, as much he'd like to get started on that.

https://i.imgur.com/PxqEiJP.jpg?1

The King's advisors remind him that he should continue the Imperial Reclamation now that his father's personal truce is no longer in power, but he is unconvinced. How is he supposed to fight in the name of God when he hasn't even gone on a proper pilgrimage? Sure, visiting Jerusalem on royal matters is basically routine these days, but he wants to do it over land, with just a small escort, the traditional way. Sailing straight across the sea is just cheating.

https://i.imgur.com/vJgdTcM.jpg?1

Of course, this being Greece, pretty much every single trip requires at least a short boat ride. On his way across the Aegean Sea, the fresh King pays a lot of attention to things and words he's only read about before. He's quite fascinated, and the sailors are glad to see their liege doesn't look down on them, so they happily teach him a little trivia here and there.

https://i.imgur.com/2CPuS8V.jpg?1

After landing, his party soon comes across a band of Brothers just returning from a visit to a village of the Khazar minority. As such, Judaism is obviously a hot topic, and they definitely have very strong views on it. Philaretos is glad to share his own, though the rugged men find his opinions on these infidels quite naive.

https://i.imgur.com/62gmgEU.jpg?1

When he finally arrives in Jerusalem, he is dazzled by the sheer amount of color and diversity in the scenery and populace. Athens is no backwater either, of course, but the Holy City is something else entirely. He dedicates a lot of time to speaking with complete strangers, carelessly approaching even (gasp!) infidels stubbornly sticking to their beloved lands like ticks to a dog, and his view on the people of the world is altered quite a bit.

https://i.imgur.com/SvDyVjv.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Ff7TAVo.jpg?1

As Philaretos returns home by boat, others don't see much difference, but he himself feels quite changed.

https://i.imgur.com/NBtAgjs.jpg?1

Nonetheless, his subjects are anxious for him to actually begin his duties as a King, especially the Reclamation. With a deep sigh, he tells them to just handle it themselves while he starts working on a book. He hasn't quite chosen the subject yet; perhaps his eye-opening pilgrimage, or just something about his prestigious dynasty.

His generals have been eyeing Crete for a while; as everyone with any knowledge of Greek history should know, it was the Skleroi's first real conquest, back when their realm only included Athens itself. However, it was then ripped away by a traitorous son conspiring with the corrupt Basileus.

https://i.imgur.com/4SlSVw8.jpg?1

When the invaders came, this broken-off branch of the family was quick to adopt the oppressors' faith and culture, becoming even more hated for it. Those ”Cretins” even look and talk like Khazars these days! A true Greek hasn't ruled Crete for almost a century! They're hardly even considered a part of the loyally Orthodox dynasty, but they're still a stain upon its name.

https://i.imgur.com/ZgSkakR.jpg?1

The Cretins have long harassed and raided Greek ships, their island sitting right in the middle of its private seazone. It's about time these lowly pirates were put to the sword.

https://i.imgur.com/8rF9tXI.jpg?1

While the army prepares its amphibious assault, the King visits a local monastery to discuss his trip and learn more about the art of writing. The monks are honored by the presence of such a prestigious individual, and offer to help him in his efforts.

https://i.imgur.com/hjeExSr.jpg?1

Two new pretenders rise up in Italy, competing to dethrone the young Kallinikos Skleros. While they only have a few minor nobles on their side, the King's army has been quite badly devastated by his unlucky and still ongoing war against the Empire, so Greece just might have to help anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/TWTjif3.jpg?1

The Crusade for Crete is finished as quickly as possible, occupying the island completely and winning a few battles to force the tired Khagan into surrender. The Duchy is once again in proper Greek hands, where it belongs! However, Philaretos wisely decides not to grant the title to any kinsman of his, there being such a strong stigma on the ”Skleroi of Crete”.

https://i.imgur.com/h4TshLP.jpg?1

He then agrees to join Kallinikos' war, at least against the more threatening of the claimants. The Italian has managed to persuade powerful allies to join his side, but defeating him personally should still be enough.

https://i.imgur.com/2HXjkfy.jpg?1

The rebels converge with their Bavarian and Lotharingian collaborators near the Italian capital, where the Greek army is more than capable of wiping them out.

https://i.imgur.com/RImQpYp.jpg?1

The Greeks then wade into the Alps to root out the other attackers. However, rebellion is stewing back home as well! Like any proper monarch, the baffled Philaretos refuses to cede his privileges without a fight!

https://i.imgur.com/2sTpSCb.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/5WPCyYQ.jpg?1

These revolting revolters have quite a bit of power in Greece and especially Anatolia, but if the royal armies act fast, the rebels can be defeated before they can organize a proper defense. Kallinikos will just have to survive by himself for a second.

https://i.imgur.com/nw8BHBM.jpg?1

The first battle against the Doux of Dyrrachion is a success.

https://i.imgur.com/EIY2T0j.jpg?1

Adrianopolis falls easily, too.

https://i.imgur.com/DlTM1EV.jpg?1

The rest of the ducal armies have gathered in Anatolia, clearly unaware of the grave logistical issues that plague every army to ever enter the region. The royal generals are more than happy to let them starve themselves to death in the barren mountains.

https://i.imgur.com/f4Pibno.jpg?1

By the time the rebels decide to quit ”while they're ahead” and head for the coast, they've lost thousands of soldiers for no good reason.

https://i.imgur.com/znxQ1AY.jpg?1

Kallistos Skleros, the Grandmaster of the Brotherhood, isn't above joining his kinsman's war and using his headquarters in Venetia to lead the Brothers against their rebellious hosts.

https://i.imgur.com/U3zXmSQ.jpg?1

Thanks to Greece's help, Italy has been able to finish off its own discontents. Just another reason for Greece to hurry up with its own... Luckily, they fall for the classic maneuver of a small forward force used to lure them into a suicidal attack. The Greeks take a painful number of casualties, but still much less than if they'd tried to assault the enemy's mountainous position.

https://i.imgur.com/htIxrUh.jpg?1

The still somewhat naive Philoretos accepts a white peace, hoping only to maintain peace within the realm. The pretty much defeated rebels are thankful for his mercy, remaining content with his rule from then on.

https://i.imgur.com/7h9dnYs.jpg?1

There's still a notable independence movement in the Kingdoms' more remote regions, however, led by the Count of Macon and Hainaut. As those petty enclaves are pretty much worthless for Greece anyway, Philaretos decides to finally just give the Count (but not his conspirators) what he wants. Perhaps he will carve out a niche for the Orthodox faith, perhaps he'll just be conquered by his surrounding states; it's his own responsibility from here on.

https://i.imgur.com/JXKgQHo.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/PzvReRg.jpg?1

As this decision may show, Philaretos is learning the ways of the world. He used to lack direction in life, but... well, he still does, but he's got a lot of passion he simply needs to aim somewhere!

A good opportunity for such self-application surfaces as the Khagan dies of illness, leaving a young heir and rendering his personal truce moot. The King is eager to declare a new war of conquest, deftly claiming multiple scattered territories as his own. Greece may not be at full strength, but the Empire is definitely weaker.

https://i.imgur.com/8AH7vSl.jpg?1

The Jews foolishly attempt a landing on their besieged Lesbos, a mountainous and easily defended island. Against Greek spears, it goes about as well as one might expect.

https://i.imgur.com/kdzVMxT.jpg?1

Having lost almost half of their whole army in that single battle, the Empire has no choice but to sit back and watch the islands be taken from under its nose. Once the Greeks are done, they're glad to get back on the continent and finish the job.

https://i.imgur.com/RRWWZh4.jpg?1

The soldiers also manage to capture a newly-unlanded Cretin who was leading one of the Imperial divisions. Philaretos does not approve of executing prisoners of war, but such a traitor to his blood and faith can't simply be ransomed off. Instead, he – quite surprisingly, given his personality - becomes the first King of Greece to evoke his traditional right to castrate an important prisoner. The Cretin will live, but he won't spread his tainted seed any further. Of course, for such an old man, it's mostly a symbolic gesture anyway... A very painful one.

https://i.imgur.com/pzC6qp9.jpg?1

Even if it was justified, it still doesn't reflect well on Philaretos' public image, and he himself can't really deny gaining some cruel satisfaction from humiliating his fallen kin.

https://i.imgur.com/3kuN9Ef.jpg?1

He soon receives the Khagan's surrender.

https://i.imgur.com/azMelJO.jpg?1

The island territories of Lesbos and Chios have been reclaimed for Greece, in addition to the remainder of Trebizond. The Empire's holdings in Armenia are now isolated from the sea.

https://i.imgur.com/eyryzZO.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/iZVCNKr.jpg?1

In his five years as King, Philaretos 'the Holy' has completed two crusades, saved Italy from two rebellions and crushed one himself. Though all of these achievements were truly thanks to his skilled generals, he receives most of the glory and prestige for them. Now, however, his weakened armies must rest and recover their full strength.

https://i.imgur.com/DDaDGfA.jpg?1

In this period of peace, Philaretos is free to dedicate even more of his time to studying. Though his earlier project didn't garner much popularity, he reads every book and document he can get his hands on, especially about religion and history. Despite his growing knowledge of the faith, however, he isn't particularly pious, but definitely still eager to go crusading for glory.

https://i.imgur.com/I1KhEux.jpg?1

Inspired by the ancient philosophers and (secretly) certain Muslim scientists, he even orders the construction of a personal observatory on one of Athens' many hills. Once it's finished, he becomes almost obsessed with it, admiring its fine Greek craftsmanship almost as much as he does the skies. Philaretos writes down all his findings, which would later become moderately famous in astronomical circles all around the Mediterranean. Of course, said circles are rather small and obscure, but it's still something.

https://i.imgur.com/hGFEuwP.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/sJw0uhi.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Msbs7hE.jpg?1

Even after the armies have recovered, Philaretos is somewhat nervous to go on any big crusades, since there's some rebellion in the air again. He can't send his armies away in such a delicate situation. Just as he finishes stating that in a council meeting, he receives news that Kallinikos, all grown up, has followed in his father's footsteps with another war against the Pope. Italy has been stable for a while now, but the Vatican's riches can buy a surprisingly large army of mercenaries.

https://i.imgur.com/lVW1yX4.jpg?1

However, the young fool decides this is a good time to pick a fight with one of his strongest Dukes, too.

https://i.imgur.com/ZinCgBE.jpg?1

Just to make sure the regime doesn't fall, Philaretos decides to help with the rebels. Rome is still Italy's own responsibility, though.

https://i.imgur.com/0KsPnjp.jpg?1

After three daughters, Queen Eudokia finally bears the 32-year-old Philaretos a proper heir, christened Theophanes. He's a somewhat sickly and undersized newborn, but will surely grow up just fine.

https://i.imgur.com/LjiIRKL.jpg?1

A mob of angry Khazars rises up in Western Anatolia, feebly trying to oust their Greek overlords, but are easily handled by just the local levies. Their worthless leader is executed on the Blasphemer's Block.

https://i.imgur.com/gHru9dj.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/HtHkVx4.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/k8f7K9u.jpg?1

The Italian rebels are defeated, too, but the royal army has been weakened and won't be able to handle the Pope. Philaretos just shrugs and tells his generals to help with that, too, since they're already in the area anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/s8QgWJ9.jpg?1

The ever distracted King returns to his research. Based on the movements of the celestial bodies, he thinks he's onto some pretty revolutionary results... results that may directly contradict the Church's teachings, should he choose to publish them.

https://i.imgur.com/rP8QIob.jpg?1

Other than that, his works of science, poetry and autobiography are starting to attract positive attention.

https://i.imgur.com/jcEfxBe.jpg?1

With Greece and Italy's cooperation, the Papal army is pretty much crushed and Rome itself besieged.

https://i.imgur.com/6w5bm8N.jpg?1

As of the 14th of June 1141, the Eternal City has been officially conquered for the Orthodox faith! The penultimate seat of the Pentarchy has been restored and the Schismatics have been thoroughly humiliated. Of course, they're unlikely to just accept this quietly. As a sign of almost mocking good-will, the Pope has been allowed to keep a pathetic enclave within the city, but many of his status symbols and greatest holdings have been usurped by the new Patriarch of Rome.

https://i.imgur.com/34WSbT4.jpg?1

Philaretos is excited, of course, but mostly because he's close to a great breakthrough in his work! All the incomprehensible pieces are starting to fit together, and the King believes he'll soon discover the true nature of the world.

https://i.imgur.com/dF47R6c.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/iIVYiUg.jpg?1

Indeed, it is almost obvious: based on the sky's movements and various other factors, it is undeniable that Earth actually revolves around the Sun, and not vice versa! Philaretos can't just conceal such a great revelation, yet it wouldn't be a smart move for a King to spread such heresy either. Instead, he decides to publish his conclusions and evidence under a pseudonym. In certain circles, they receive great interest for a short while before being denounced by the Pentarchy and forced underground. Philaretos never gets the credit for his great discovery, which is remade a few centuries later by some upstart Polish man. On the other hand, some like to theorize that said Pole was influenced by a surviving copy of Philaretos' research.

https://i.imgur.com/iGUxxpp.jpg?1

It has been 100 years since King Kaisarios added Venetia to the Greek realm. Since then, it has been controlled by Greek merchants serving a Greek liege. Even if the locals still see themselves as Venetians, it's indisputable that the Republic is a solid part of the Kingdom.

https://i.imgur.com/rFMuTa4.jpg?1

Over a third of the Greek Doukes being Skleroi is definitely a mixed blessing, but one of its upsides is that they're willing to collaborate in their independent Crusades. Now that the Empire's power has dwindled so greatly, the Doux of Trebizond is close to conquering the Duchy of Koloneia for himself.

https://i.imgur.com/MITxFz9.jpg?2

Perhaps even more interestingly, however, the Count of Kaliopolis – not even a Skleros – has decided to take his chances now that the Khagan's army has been crushed by the others. He has declared a Crusade for Thrake, including Constantinople itself! The Greek master plan had included the reclamation of Constantinople as a climactic finish, as petty as that may sound. It would be rather interesting to see a mere Count perform a feat as great as capturing the Imperial capital.

https://i.imgur.com/VXb2EsD.jpg?1

Mere days later, a great tremor strikes Athens, badly damaging many buildings big and small and utterly terrifying the populace. Some are quick to mistake it for the end of times or at the very least an ill omen. Even more dramatic, however, is the demonic abyss that has opened in the ground just outside the city! This is far from Greece's first earthquake, but the pit does sound quite ominous even to the rational Philateros, who rushes to investigate.

https://i.imgur.com/KvG97tv.jpg?1

The Gate of Hell, spewing fire and smoke and ill odors, is a sight to behold. Philateros, of course, believes there's a good explanation for everything, and intends to find out what exactly that is.

https://i.imgur.com/EUNZpxA.jpg?1

Even he seems entranced by the hole's sheer horror, though. To Hell (heh) with investigation, this demonic portal must be shut before the end of times really does arrive!

https://i.imgur.com/mEQcMJQ.jpg?1

Every priest in the realm is quick to come up with solutions of their own, but Philaretos settles for the most obvious option: divine intervention! The hole is far too large to simply plug, and if it really is the Gate of Hell, no simple sacrifice can possibly sate Satan himself.

https://i.imgur.com/qd6jS5i.jpg?1

The Patriarch of Greece himself is summoned to perform the ritual. Together with a cabal of lesser priests, he circles the hole, chanting commands and prayers with increasing fervor while an ominous-sounding choir sings in the background.

https://i.imgur.com/Z7nGxIa.jpg?1

Philaretos is actually quite baffled to feel the earth shake again as the pit closes up by itself, leaving behind nothing but a bare spot and some upturned earth. It is seen as a great miracle and a sign of his divine mandate to rule! On the other hand, since the Gate came out of nowhere, did nothing and disappeared so simply, it becomes a legend rather quickly and is treated as such for the rest of history. The King has some trouble reconciling the whole thing with his world view.

https://i.imgur.com/KIrRMve.jpg?1

Trebizond's Crusade has been successful, and the Count's war against the Khagan is going surprisingly well, for he has already seized Constantinople itself! As the realm holds its breath, however, less pleasant news arrive. Perhaps there was something in those hellish fumes, but after falling badly ill, King Philaretos has died in his bed. Despite almost nobody in the realm trusting him at first, he managed to win them to his side. It is ironic that most of his reign's most famous victories had little to do with him, while his own works were all but forgotten or known under other names. Before his untimely passing on the 12th of November 1144, he whispered something in the 5-year-old Theophanes' ear, something the boy would remember for the rest of his life, even if it made little sense to him at the moment...

https://i.imgur.com/ox38UNC.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/iTh7ABH.jpg?1

Long live Theophanes Skleros, King of Greece and Sicily, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika, Chalkidike and Jerusalem, Sovereign Lord of Anatolia, Egypt and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/IjObDy5.jpg?1
The Greeks have managed to push even further into Anatolia and Armenia. The Count of Kaliopolis and his allies have Constantinople occupied, while the Khagan struggles with multiple religious uprisings in his realm.

https://i.imgur.com/0AomYPt.jpg?1

The rereconquista continues as Andalusia manages to push beyond its original borders and into proper Asturian territory. The Sultanate has been truly united in the struggle against its neighbors, which is bad news for Christendom.

https://i.imgur.com/lIsSdmD.jpg?1

England and Scotland's borders remain quiet for now, but the King of Powys, a minor Duchy in Wales, has managed to exploit a moment of weakness to make Scotland into a subjugated tributary of his. At full strength, however, the Scots should be more than able to break free.

https://i.imgur.com/SmxLnca.jpg?1

Great Moravia has begun something of a new rise by conquering Silesia. The Hungarians were subjugated by a Khazar overlord, but it didn't take long for them to rise in support of their old Emperor.

https://i.imgur.com/R1WZaby.jpg?1

Errr...

https://i.imgur.com/0xDb77L.jpg?1
Apparently, Skleros means ”hard, fierce, rough” in Greek. Pretty appropriate, I suppose. (this was a pre-existent and apparently historical dynasty, mind you)

Real close to a proper Empire here, boys! This just might be the least dramatic way to achieve it, though... Of course, I can probably spin something out of a Greek Count defeating a Khazar Khagan.

And yes, I do have a particular interest in specific areas of the map (e.g. Iberia and Britain), mostly because they'll have a great impact on the game's future in EU4 and it'd be cool to see them become as different from the norm as possible. :smalltongue:

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #14: The Clueless Child (1144-1155)

Greece settles in for a 11-year regency as little Theophanes takes the throne. Not much can be said about such a young boy, but at least he doesn't seem particularly dim or stunted.

https://i.imgur.com/ARGXIRO.jpg?1

Herakleios Euforbenos, his Marshal, has managed to nab himself the Regent's office. While he may be a skilled commander, what the Kingdoms really need is an administrator, which he isn't quite as good at.

https://i.imgur.com/tdGTffm.jpg?1

It is soon decided that the King should be raised and taught by his mother personally.

https://i.imgur.com/k8IMvPk.jpg?1

King Kallinikos of Italy dies, putting his young son Romanos II in charge. The Duke of Lombardy, King Guido's grandson, wastes no time raising his flag in rebellion. It is decided that Greece should send military aid once again.

https://i.imgur.com/3MIEXR4.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/GHGpKqC.jpg?1

However, just as the troops are sailing to Italy, the confused Theophanes is matter-of-factly informed that the lords of the realm, including his regent, have decided to strip the King of some of his legal authority. Theophanes doesn't really comment on the issue, being a little kid. Realizing this opportunity, the Doukes decide to go even further, making themselves almost autonomous from the King's rule, with very few responsibilities.

https://i.imgur.com/YfIKoBj.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/DZLflHX.jpg?1

He seems more interested in the palace kitchens' bounty. His mother isn't quite happy with the boy's eating habits, but doesn't have the heart to discipline a King over such petty matters. His father was much the same, after all.

https://i.imgur.com/UKMh1gW.jpg?1

There are strange rumors that some English youngster is planning to try and invade Greece, but nobody has any idea what he could possibly seek so far from home. Of course, most don't consider him much of a threat anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/87xFQZC.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/3MmMp13.jpg?1

At least the Italian rebels are quite easily taken care of. Hopefully Greece's own traitors will be content with their accomplishments so far.

It soon becomes clear, however, that many of them don't consider Greece their rightful overlord and seek independence. To alleviate this, the loyal council decides to finally declare Theophanes the King of Anatolia, Egypt and Jerusalem as well! Of course, that makes his list of titles quite long, so King of Greece remains the most commonly used one anyway. This calms down the complainers somewhat, mostly because they've lost their main excuse for rebellion, but they begin eyeing these new Kingdoms instead.

Indeed, other nobles rise to demand the installation of an elective monarchy in the Kingdoms. They've clearly gotten the idea from the west, where similar systems have been created through revolution, but they back up their idea with references to ancient Greek democracy and other such humbug. Even the Regent isn't stupid enough to accept their claims! There will be civil war!

https://i.imgur.com/EKxHpo5.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/kX2YSmv.jpg?1

Frustratingly, the recent legal reforms make it much harder for the crown to raise a proper army, leaving both sides quite evenly matched in terms of sheer numbers. However, Italy and the Brotherhood come to Theophanes' aid, hopefully tipping the scales in his favor.

https://i.imgur.com/SQBkJ1i.jpg?1

In addition, the royal army is once again able to exploit the rebels' poor organization. Sailing from Achaia to Anatolia to Sicily to finally Jerusalem, four traitorous armies are crushed in four decisive battles. The young Duchess of Acre surrenders, his rebel father having died from illness a few months prior. Apart from her, all the other conspirators are thrown into the Athenian dungeons to await their fate, for word has arrived that the English upstart has set sail for Trebizond!

https://i.imgur.com/EfaKL3x.jpg?1

The 8-year-old Theophanes himself only has a very vague impression of what is going on, but he does overhear people talking about the noble prisoners. Curious, he decides to go take a peek, but gets increasingly nervous in the dark and musty hallways. He grabs a random knife laying on the floor, excusing his cowardice by thinking that he should return it to the kitchen. However, when he gets back to the top of the staircase, he notices that the knife is covered in blood, and his mother Eudokia chooses just the perfect time to walk by.

https://i.imgur.com/5wgwRTS.jpg?1

With a sudden flash of panic in her eyes, Eudokia makes him hide the knife and swear not to tell anyone what happened. It's clear that she's completely misunderstood, but little Theophanes is just glad to have gotten out of trouble. The incident does leave a long-lasting shock in Eudokia's memory, and a rather bad lesson in Theophanes'.

https://i.imgur.com/2mn3rXv.jpg?1

The foolhardy invader is taking his sweet time actually arriving, so Regent Herakleios turns his attention to the prisoners. They are an especially disgusting bunch: they didn't rebel against some taxes or something, they attacked the very heart of the realm! The noble Skleroi created Greece, they revived the Church, and their divine mandate is what makes the realm so successful! To violently oppose the Kings' hereditary right to rule isn't just a crime against the people who gave them everything, it's a crime against God himself! They deserve no less than death.

However, as Herakleios is forced to admit, the Kingdoms are clearly in a very sensitive situation, and simply executing several powerful Doukes definitely wouldn't help. Instead, it's suggested that he release them in exchange for heavy reparations and vows of loyalty. Vows have already proven insufficient, but the Regent can't deny that this would prove the crown's capability to rule without resorting to mindless violence.

Just a few months later, though, Herakleios is replaced with another regent, a Nubian noble and Princess Thomais' husband.

https://i.imgur.com/KUej3Vu.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/9zhVnjr.jpg?1

The foolhardy Englishman seems to be just a regular fool as well, shipping his army over in small chunks barely big enough for the Greeks to even notice while trampling them to death.

https://i.imgur.com/OG8bxjg.jpg?1

Let us not forget the valiant Count of Kaliopolis, though! After five long years, his almost comical yet strangely successful struggle for Constantinople continues. The gigantic city is almost like a series of citadels, each a fortress in itself, making its truly complete occupation quite a challenge for such a small army, but he's definitely making progress.

https://i.imgur.com/x9RjURl.jpg?1

After three very sparsely placed battles against very sparsely placed armies, Eadmaer is defeated and captured!

https://i.imgur.com/4BrfiTw.jpg?1

He's almost too pathetic to even execute, so he instead gets his eyes carved out with a hot spoon, destroying what remained of his sole worth as a soldier. Such is the nature of Greek mercy...

https://i.imgur.com/LgJDeg7.jpg?1

The once so great and threatening Empire has devolved into a total chaos. In addition to his pathetic war with the Count, the Khagan is contending with a Jihad for Armenia, Catholic rebels, two separate heresies and an independence war for Bulgaria. The hated conquerors just might finish themselves off.

https://i.imgur.com/u7qgbYl.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/2cPsdBv.jpg?1

Nearing the seventh anniversary of his declaration of war, the Count of Kaliopolis finally fulfills his dream by forcing the Khagan to submit all his lands within the Duchy of Thrace to him! It is truly a great, if somewhat unusually achieved victory for Greece. As of the 13th of December 1148, the city is back in its rightful hands.

https://i.imgur.com/b2LdNoN.jpg?1

Some eager traditionalists suggest moving the capital there, but they've clearly missed the whole lesson this last century of independence should've taught them: that Greece is strongest on its own, not as a part or mere remnant of some foreign state, and should openly embrace its own destiny! Besides, Athens has grown into a great center of wealth and culture, whereas Constantinople has been soaked in Jewish and Khazar influence for 200 years and is no longer fit to serve as a Greek capital. In fact, self-identified Khazars form the majority of its large population. Let the valiant Count who conquered the city keep it and rule as its Doux!

It may be an even greater success for the Orthodox faith, though, for the last seat of the Pentarchy has been recovered! The defunct title of the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople can finally be recreated, returning the Church to its true glory and authority.

The most powerful Doukes and councilors of the realm meet in Athens, discussing their world-changing plans to be put to action when King Theophanes reaches majority in six years. Meanwhile, the ousted Khagan has been forced to move his capital to Serdica, Bulgaria. The Duchy of Moesia it lies in, however, has come under attack by the Count of Strymon, perhaps pushing the Empire even farther north in the near future.

https://i.imgur.com/b2LdNoN.jpg?1

Even in these times of triumph, Eudokia has grown tired of the other nobles' scheming, deciding to step in as Queen Regent herself to watch over this critical period in Greek history.

https://i.imgur.com/DWjMV9R.jpg?1

The pathetic Yusufid Caliphate suddenly declares a Jihad for Egypt, their last attempt having gone so terribly well. The zealous armies of Greece are to be mobilized and transported to Damietta immediately. Italy and the Brotherhood are eager to join in the defense of Christendom, too.

https://i.imgur.com/WDM98Yb.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/A72O7w0.jpg?1

The first year of the war sees a great deal of combat around the Nile. Everything goes in Greece's favor for now, but most of the Muslim attackers are just arriving. The Greek generals do their best to pick the enemy armies off one by one.

https://i.imgur.com/Rti1Ya8.jpg?1

The largest battle is fought just south-east of Alexandria when the Greek offense is slowed down by the flooding river and the enemy's reinforcements have time to arrive. Half of the Greek army lies dead – or rather, floats somewhere down the delta – but the Muslims are routed and take even more devastating casualties while trying to retreat over the rushing waters.

https://i.imgur.com/xmeBC6f.jpg?1

Even though the enemies continue to be slaughtered by the thousands, there's always more of them. The Jihad has attracted a lot of attention across the somewhat stabilized Islamic realms, and ambitious warlords are arriving all the way from Mauretania just to be driven back into the sea again. Even just hunting down the pests takes ages, and the sand becomes soaked with the blood of Greeks and Arabs alike.

https://i.imgur.com/adCwfYM.jpg?1

At the age of 70, Grandmaster Kallinikos Skleros of the Brotherhood finally dies peacefully in his bed. Theophanes' grand-uncle Andronikos sure had to wait for a long time, but after years as a faithful Steward, he finally gets his rightful place as the greatest Brother of all.

https://i.imgur.com/MJDG5PX.jpg?1

In the second-largest battle of the Jihad, it's the enemy's turn to attempt an assault across the Nile, against a much larger force no less. They're driven back in another embarrassing defeat.

https://i.imgur.com/KZRcJ1w.jpg?1

After almost three years of fighting over the control of the Nile Delta, the Caliph finally submits and admits his defeat. The second Jihad for Egypt is a failure, though it did cost about 25 000 Greek lives as well.

https://i.imgur.com/eLd4zzD.jpg?1

Even though the war was a decisive victory in Greece's favor, one Arabian veteran apparently just can't have enough, declaring his intention to begin a Jihad of his own, without all that sinful gambling and prostitution that plague normal wars! The Greeks aren't exactly shaking in terror.

https://i.imgur.com/KH3MnXe.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/gojUaoq.jpg?1

On the northern front, however, the Count of Strymon has successfully conquered Moesia! The Khagan, his realm in chaos, has been forced to retreat all the way to his Georgian holdings, but even there the situation is quite tight with the Muslims.

https://i.imgur.com/YRqIiYX.jpg?1

After two years of quiet, the Arab finally declares his conquest to have begun. His surprisingly quite respectable army numbers around 20 000 men, but if Greece's earlier attackers are anything to go on, they'll arrive in multiple easily weathered waves.

https://i.imgur.com/7aOoxY1.jpg?1

Just as the armies are sailing off to Egypt, Theophanes' 16th birthday arrives and he takes the throne properly. He has inherited his great grandfather Kaisarios the Younger's epithet of 'the Hammer', and just like him, Theophanes never even left the palace. While his vassals have fought rebellions and fended off Jihads, the boy has just been killing time and planning mischief. He seems relatively good with money and administration, but overall a rather... unpleasant person. The boy is ambitious, as is fitting for a King, but almost overly greedy and willing to utilize dishonorable methods to reach his goals. At least he isn't willing to resort to outright cruelty... He's also prideful to a fault, greatly frustrating everyone who has to deal with him on a daily basis. The realm held together through his childhood, perhaps it will survive his adulthood as well.

[derp, missing picture, look at the end of the chapter]

Half a year into the war, everyone is surprised to see that this Shujah and his army have finally managed to march across the desert in one piece. Of course, having already surpassed every prior invader in that sense, he then decides to split his men into two groups, politely leaving the smaller one for Greece to nab first.

https://i.imgur.com/IXV19km.jpg?1

The Greeks are too clever to fall for their own trap, though; they bypass the smaller army, which is hiding in the mountains, and head straight for the larger force sitting right in the open. Shujah's men are quite unceremoniously skewered.

https://i.imgur.com/mtWqNzI.jpg?1

His decoy group, now lacking its vital backup, is up next.

https://i.imgur.com/Q2q2pMN.jpg?1

Though a few stragglers still remain, the Arab force has been utterly beaten, which even Shujah is forced to admit. He's triumphantly introduced to the Blasphemer's Block.

https://i.imgur.com/NNsiwOE.jpg?1

More fascinating news from the north: the Bulgarian independence movement has succeeded, breaking free from the Empire and uniting under an Orthodox ruler! This Bogoris 'the Liberator' has thus founded the third Orthodox Kingdom existing in the world, and become natural ally for Greece.

https://i.imgur.com/EmV0XGZ.jpg?1

Perhaps even more importantly, however, the Khagan's meager lands have been reduced to a few completely unconnected pockets, one of which doesn't even have a coastline. It is clear that his so-called ”Baranjar Empire” is long dead, if it ever truly existed at all.

https://i.imgur.com/h0wE9N5.jpg?1

In a triumphant but still long and arduous meeting, Theophanes gathers with the most important nobles and Patriarchs of the realm to discuss the future of their glorious Greek nation. After a week of planning and negotiation, on Christmas Day 1455 the great declaration is made from the stairs of the new Imperial Palace:


”The Empire of the Jews has fallen! Fallen, and shattered! The Khagan has been banished from Constantinople, from Europe, forced to hide in the mountains! The disgusting Baranjars have lost their lands and honor, and it is up to us to pick up their mess!

Theophanes of the Skleroi, heir of our liberator St Kaisarios, is the first Basileus of the reborn Hellenic Empire! May his dominion spread across the land, and the one true Orthodox faith with it!”

https://i.imgur.com/SartBbf.jpg?1


This alone is enough to raise somewhat confused but still very enthusiastic cheers from the crowd, which had gathered to listen to a promised announcement. Indeed, what remained of the heathen Empire has collapsed into the Jewish realms Serbia, Taurica and Mesopotamia, only the latter held by the former Khagan, now mere Prince, whose last pretensions of greatness have been completely dispelled.

However, the perhaps even more important part was yet to come:


”In accordance to the counsel of our blessed Pentarchs and the divine word of God himself, all followers of Christ shall be united in one truly Orthodox, literally Catholic Church! With both Old and New Rome under the banner of our faith, the Western Church falling while the Eastern rises, it is within our Pentarchy's right to declare thus!

Spread this gospel across the new and righteous Empire, across the Mediterranean Sea, across all of Europe! Let it be known that whatever differences once divided our great faith are now irrelevant, and that our Eastern Orthodox Church has proven its worth as the one and only house of God!”

https://i.imgur.com/VNbj95u.jpg?1


Of course, such an incredible claim wouldn't necessarily have much power in itself, but there is a holy truth behind these words. The Pope has long been only a figurehead, and the Orthodox faith has even rooted itself among the Roman populace. Peasants and lords alike convert almost as quickly as word spreads; of course, the peasants may not fully understand the situation, and the lords have political concerns, but it is still undeniable that the Pentarchy is now the only proper representative of Heaven on Earth. To make the transition easier, western priests are given some initial leniency in parts of the dogma. Pockets of now-heretic Catholicism remain, but they won't be able to weather the winds of change for long, and in the eyes of proper Christians, the Pope has lost what little power he had. With this seemingly simple ”Great Mend”, many things have changed forever.

https://i.imgur.com/4VgZbm3.jpg?1

Basileus Theophanes 'the Saint' himself doesn't really fully understand the details himself, but when the others presented the plan to him, he was obviously stoked by such a great opportunity. The first Skleros to sit the Imperial Throne, a 16-year-old lad? His reign has barely even started, yet by many measures he is already the greatest ruler in proper Greek history. May he live up to those high expectations!

https://i.imgur.com/9f0j7Es.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/1FFHHiR.jpg
A self-made combination of Alexander's Macedonian star and the Greek cross

Wooot! :smallbiggrin: So, should our next goal be Alexander's Empire? We could theoretically forge our way to Persia in decades, but I doubt we really want to go that fast. I'll just have to... control myself... Shame about that Crown Authority though, Theo can't even raise it anymore.

By the way: today I learned that ”In the Shadow of the Acropolis” is a movie about the Holocaust in Greece during WWII. Eerily fitting, but still very inappropriate, and I assure you that this wasn't intentional, especially since I couldn't have foreseen the Khazar invasion anyway. :smallredface:

Oh, and 'Hammer Saint'? I didn't realize I'd suddenly become a dwarf. On the other hand, 'Saint Hammer' sounds like a very interesting hip hop artist.

[Sian]

who's Theophanes bethoted with? does she have anything of worth other than the fact that she's family (even if not acknowledged)

[SilverLeaf167]

Just a distant half-relative. Nothing that weird really, other than the Strong trait. :smalltongue: You'll get a better look after the wedding.

[Corvus]

Have been enjoying this AAR immensely. It has inspired me to get around to doing one myself, to start hopefully in the not to distant future. :)

[SilverLeaf167]

Hey, thanks a lot! Be sure to mention when it starts so I can read it. :smallwink:

[Tentreto]

Looks good! Finally we have united the Churches... under a ruler with no virtues.
You could either reclaim the roman empire and rename it, or follow Alexanders path.

All we need to do now is increase that crown authority...

[Flickerdart]

Huzzah!

Although, now that you are not Greece, does that mean you'll be stuck with the awful generic ideas in EUIV? Or are you just a reskinned Byzantine Empire?

[Eldan]

So, apparently, Theophanes is "The Manifestation of God". Fitting?

[SilverLeaf167]

That reminds me: it'll be a couple days until the next update, so might as well throw another vote in here! Haven't had many of those...


The Imperial Conference also discussed other very important issues; with the birth of a new Empire on the Mediterranean and the United Church of Christ, the Greek nation's power has grown greatly, but so have its responsibilities. As the home of four out of five Pentarchs, including the highest Patriarch of Constantinople, and the organizational center of the whole Church, it occupies a clear position as the defender of Christendom. However, the one true faith is currently beset on four separate fronts, and it is clear that the Hellenic Empire must try and prioritize somewhat.

Indeed, one can hardly step over the border without running into militant heathens.
In Hispania to the west, the little Kingdom of León has fought valiantly against the Umayyads, but it is clear that the tide has turned and Christendom is losing ground once again. When the next inevitable struggle arrives, should the Greek army sail west of Italy for the first time in centuries and aid its newly Orthodox brothers in their struggle?
Around the Black Sea, just northeast of the Greek mainland, Judaism still stands steadfast, even if the Khagan has fallen from grace. Serbia sits right on our border, Taurica and the Hungarians remain to the north, Georgia and Khazaria still have a strong presence. The rise of Judaism has brought Europe nothing but woe and terror, they must be driven back to the steppes.
The Southern Mediterranean is still dominated by various Emirs and Sultans. They may not have directly threatened Europeans for a while, but they're eager to participate in every Jihad and the African coast is swarming with ruthless pirates, slaughtering and enslaving innocent Christians! We already have a strong foothold in Egypt; should we try to expand it down the coast and up the Nile?
Last but not definitely not least, Alexander's legacy in the east calls to us Greeks to this day; it is in our blood. The Fertile Crescent is also the richest heartland of, well, the Crescent, and they're a constant threat to the Holy Land we hold so dear. Shall the phalanxes of Greece once again march to the Tigris and beyond?

The Sword and Shield of Christ must do its duty, but how exactly?

(Too bad I don't have map screenshots, but the general situation is honestly rather unchanged from my earlier pictures)


Huzzah!

Although, now that you are not Greece, does that mean you'll be stuck with the awful generic ideas in EUIV? Or are you just a reskinned Byzantine Empire?

Well, I would've modded something in anyway, but Greek culture countries happened to get unique ideas in the latest patch and they're actually pretty good. :smallbiggrin: I'm definitely going to do a lot of stuff by hand, though; I basically only trust the converter to provide a workable start...

Traditions
Galley Cost: -20.0%, Fort Defense: +20.0%

Greek Orthodox Faith: Tolerance of the True Faith: +2.00
Maritime Heritage: Yearly Navy Tradition: +1.00
Klephtic Recruitment: Infantry Combat Ability: +10.0%
Greek Diaspora: Advisor Costs: -10.0%
Control the Mediterranean Trade: Trade Efficiency: +10.0%
Philhellenism: Diplomatic Reputation: +1.00, Diplomatic Relations: +1
Greek Enlightenment: Idea Cost: -10.0%

Ambition
Core-Creation Cost: -10.0%

So, apparently, Theophanes is "The Manifestation of God". Fitting?
Yes, very. Noticed that myself when I decided to look up the name. With this and the AAR title, I guess nomen really est omen after all. :smallwink:

[mythmonster2]

Can there be any other choice? If we proclaim ourselves a Hellenic Empire, how can we ignore the old Greeks' greatest conquest and not follow Alexander's footsteps? Do not stop until we reach the Indus!

[Yaktan]

We must remember our own long struggle against the heathen by helping our valient brothers. To Hispania to aid Leon in their struggle!

[Rockphed]

Alexander's footsteps are a trap. Did he not die of a plague he contracted in the east? Let us go forth and show the last few Catholics the true path. To Hispania!

Wait, we mended the Great Schism and Orthodox is clearly the more common of the two religions. Does this mean that we now have access to a bunch more holy orders? Can Catholic holy orders that haven't been founded yet still be founded? How about Crusades? Do we get those now?

[Sian]

something i might be concerned about is if you not expanding to heavily to have anything interesting happen when EU4 gets around

[Slayn82]

It is to great benefit to the Faith that the mourish be purged by the hand of the Champions of Christ in the lands of the West, so that neither of those Christian Kingdoms fall to their increasing strength of arms, and that the teachings of the Holy Church be allowed to reach the Brothers in Leon and the lands of West that were just as recently outside of the Lord's True Church .

And to that just cause, let all the reconciliated Catholics be united in the blessed Glory of the True Orthodox Church in just Crusade for the Reconquest of the Hispanic Lands and liberation of His people.

[Corvus]

Though it grieves my heart to say so, some lands are simply too distant, as even Alexander discovered. We can not yet help those of the faith in the far west.

Instead, let us turn our thoughts and deeds to the lands bounding the Mediterranean. Let us crush the heathen that dwell there and drive them out, to rid the waters of their piracy, and in their stead let us set up friendly foreign Christian kingdoms ruled by members of our dynasty.


Hey, thanks a lot! Be sure to mention when it starts so I can read it. :smallwink:

I just started mine up - Lords of the Nile: A Kingdom of Makuria Campaign (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?438260-Crusader-Kings-2-AAR-Lords-of-the-Nile-A-Kingdom-of-Makuria-Campaign). I didn't realise until I started just how hard it is to do.

[Flickerdart]

Wait, we mended the Great Schism and Orthodox is clearly the more common of the two religions. Does this mean that we now have access to a bunch more holy orders? Can Catholic holy orders that haven't been founded yet still be founded? How about Crusades? Do we get those now?
From what I understand, we get no benefits of Catholicism. No Crusades, no free Pope-money, no stacks and stacks of amazing holy orders. The heretic Catholics still have all of these things.

[SilverLeaf167]

Wait, we mended the Great Schism and Orthodox is clearly the more common of the two religions. Does this mean that we now have access to a bunch more holy orders? Can Catholic holy orders that haven't been founded yet still be founded? How about Crusades? Do we get those now?

From what I understand, we get no benefits of Catholicism. No Crusades, no free Pope-money, no stacks and stacks of amazing holy orders. The heretic Catholics still have all of these things.

Flickerdart's right AFAIK, but I did mod the Patriarch of Constantinople the ability to call great crusades, just to make things interesting. He's still doing it of his own will, however, or at least I think so.


something i might be concerned about is if you not expanding to heavily to have anything interesting happen when EU4 gets around

Yeah, definitely important to keep in mind... I have to balance these remaining 289 years well. Beyond a certain point, we can just grant our unnecessary lands independence under Orthodox rulers to avoid blobbing too much.


I just started mine up - Lords of the Nile: A Kingdom of Makuria Campaign (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?438260-Crusader-Kings-2-AAR-Lords-of-the-Nile-A-Kingdom-of-Makuria-Campaign). I didn't realise until I started just how hard it is to do.

Everyone go check it out! :smallbiggrin:

[Sian]

Something that might help is to, at some point, provoke a splintering so you have a kingdom of Sicily, and a kingdom of Greece, independent of each other.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #15: The Pious Protector (1155-1175)

Now that young Theophanes is the Basileus, his authority both within and outside the Hellenic Empire has increased greatly, but he'll really have to shape up if he wants to maintain this power. Prompted by his advisors, he starts vying for the restoration of the crown laws his foolish regent so willingly repealed.

https://i.imgur.com/7WxZ4iI.jpg?1

In addition, the same meeting that decided his ascension and the creation of the United Church of Christ has come to a conclusion about the Empire's current political priority: the decline of Christendom in Iberia must be stopped! The once-glorious Leonese have hit a stone wall in their efforts of reconquest and been pushed to the northwest part of the peninsula, weaker than they've ever been, even losing the Duchy of León proper. Without the Empire's help, the whole area will soon be under Islamic rule! The Umayyad threat must be repelled!

https://i.imgur.com/GVRkgvo.jpg?1

There is currently a truce between León and the Umayyads, but all it does is set an even clearer timer for the next inevitable invasion. When that day comes, in about 8 years from now, the Greeks must be ready to protect their brothers in the faith.

For now, however, the Basileus has some of the East Roman inheritance to deal with. The Imperial bureaucracy, based in Constantinople, is vast and quite draconic, requiring arduous reforms to be of any use. One of its more interesting aspects, however, is the Varangian Guard, an elite company consisting of Norse recruits who fight for the Basileus himself, not quite unlike the Phalanx if somewhat less... honorable. Their leadership wasn't particularly fond of the Khagan, having maintained a military tradition based on the Orthodox faith, and is glad to serve Theophanes now. They'll serve mostly as Constantinople's local peacekeepers and an occasional auxiliary arm of the military.

https://i.imgur.com/C7q5FpO.jpg?1

Of course, in the midst of all these renovations, the realm must also find space for celebration! A grand tournament is declared to be held at the Panhellenic Stadium in Athens.

https://i.imgur.com/9GZX1yK.jpg?1

Meanwhile, the Knights Templar are greatly dishonored as the Khaganate of Khazaria manages to subjugate them to its will. For a Holy Order, there is no shame greater than serving an infidel. This just may have been God's wrath, seeing as the Knights were one of the only major landholders in Europe not to relinquish their Catholic heresy. Still, such a Khazar presence in Europe doesn't exactly please the Greeks, who've had some bad experiences with it in the past.

https://i.imgur.com/mJTWXdk.jpg?1

Even then, they're more interested in the tournament. Though more and more sporting events are being organized alongside the melees, muscular men swinging sticks around remain the main attraction. The winner of the bout is surprisingly conventional, compared to earlier tourneys: a Baron from Nikomedeia, a true gentleman, officer and scholar.

https://i.imgur.com/UXV76ne.jpg?1

In second place is Sven, a strange foreigner with a strange language, rumored to be an unrepentant pagan. However, as a member of the Varangian Guard he was allowed to participate, and his savage fury brought him plenty of success until Baron Evangelos exploited it to strike him while his guard was down.

https://i.imgur.com/WCC8jNT.jpg?1

Coming in third is a commander from Epirus, quite a valiant and honorable warrior. He seems a bit disappointed, but honestly, even getting noticed in an Imperial Tourney is a great honor!

https://i.imgur.com/9IUwa0W.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/kVBIJGV.jpg?1

While the triumphant Greeks are having fun, the Italians decide to actually do something about the Khazars. Theophanes decides to maintain his new reputation as a paragon of the faith by joining in the struggle.

https://i.imgur.com/fQ2BLbS.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/caODfNp.jpg?1

While the armies are mobilizing, Theophanes' betrothed reaches majority and it's time for their wedding. Nazaneen is a Skleros herself, and the Greeks are very aware of the risks of inbreeding, but her branch of the family already split off over 150 years ago from Doux Kaisarios I's brother, making her the Basileus' sixth cousin once-removed... and besides, she's actually just a fully legitimized bastard with no real blood connection whatsoever. Nevertheless, the marriage was useful in improving relations with the powerful Doux of Antioch and netting Theophanes a... fertile field. She really isn't awful to look at, either.

https://i.imgur.com/DwOCHtn.jpg?1

By the time the Greek army finally lands in Croatia, Italy has already launched an overzealous and undermanned invasion. Having already lost one battle, they're in the process of continuing their streak, but the arriving Greeks manage to turn the tide. They even buy enough time for Italy's main force to finally make it there and help them clean up.

https://i.imgur.com/Im4fWub.jpg?1

The combined Skleros forces spread around to occupy the area.

https://i.imgur.com/UAy0jJK.jpg?1

While the Imperial Bureaucracy can be rather cumbersome, it also has its benefits. Theophanes' clerks have managed to finagle with the laws to reinstitute some of the Basileus' traditional rights. The Doukes' autonomy is cut somewhat, but of course, it was only gained through treachery in the first place.

https://i.imgur.com/F3W0Myn.jpg?1

After about a year and a half of sieges, the war is decided in Italy's favor. Some of the other Jewish states were finally showing up to the scene, but didn't have the time (nor really the numbers) to change anything.

https://i.imgur.com/hhvHxTX.jpg?1

The Duchy of Croatia won't be returned to the Templars, of course, but added to the Italian domain. The Khagan, on the other hand, becomes the last in a long line of Khazar rulers to abandon his nomadic kin and make himself a feudal emperor... of very scattered territories, but still. The most relevant of those territories lie in Georgia and his remaining part of Croatia, yet his eponymous capital is far over the Ural Mountains. These barbarians really don't seem to understand the practical side of running a country...

https://i.imgur.com/Vq1q8Rp.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ImQh7w0.jpg?1

For some reason, there are many voices of discontent among the Doukes. They're still holding onto their foolish dreams of installing an elective system, even more ridiculous for an Empire than it was for a Kingdom. Theophanes puts his new rights as Basileus to good use again, deciding to start granting his more remote territories to temporary Exarchs, appointed for life but unable to pass the title to their children without going through the Basileus. The system is quite similar to the Themes of East Rome, just on a larger scale. A little decentralization just might stabilize the realm, and while giving more power to individual nobles has its risks, they might also be more capable of expanding on their own. Egypt and Jerusalem are made into such Exarchates, though the Holy City itself stays under Theophanes' direct control.

https://i.imgur.com/BOgbmim.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/fUKlilA.jpg?1

With 5 more years of truce left, León is under assault from a surprising direction: a French mercenary leader has decided to try and exploit the isolated Kingdom's weakness and invade them from the north! Even if they're not Muslims, it is still in Christendom's interest to keep León intact, so the Empire must intervene.

https://i.imgur.com/Xf4l4Gm.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/x1Rtq1Y.jpg?1

This Evrard isn't a terribly large threat, but Theophanes isn't taking any risks of León falling. When the Greek navy carrying 13 000 men lands in Iberia, it finds only about 1 500 French mercenaries and almost off-handedly crushes the invaders. The troops are rather frustrated to have spent far longer mobilizing and sailing than actually fighting.

https://i.imgur.com/Vc2IpTp.jpg?1

About a year passes before another call for help arrives from León. Their truce with the Umayyads of Andalusia is still in power, but the Umayyads of Mauretania (located within and allied with the Umayyads of Andalusia) have called their own Jihad instead! Even without their current internal problems, the Leonese would have no chance in such a fight, so the Greeks shall sail westward... again.

https://i.imgur.com/kj6rj2x.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/1qQfmot.jpg?1

Theophanes, having just started planning a little party with his vassals, isn't very pleased.

https://i.imgur.com/YVzwGwt.jpg?1

The Leonese army is promptly trapped with its backs against the sea and completely eliminated in a single battle.

https://i.imgur.com/daQJc32.jpg?1

Meanwhile, King Bogoris of Bulgaria continues his own holy quest of Liberating the Balkans from Jewish rule.

https://i.imgur.com/4drnvUa.jpg?1

By the time Greece's troops finally get all the way around the peninsula, the contested Alcantara in the Duchy of Badajoz is already under siege. However, the weather and terrain of Iberia make for a rather unfriendly environment, so the Greek commanders wisely wait for the Umayyads to waste their strength before finally attacking. The Battle of Béjar, quite fittingly fought within the de jure Duchy of León under unjust occupation, is long and bloody. The Greeks lose almost as many men as the Muslims but ultimately win the day, one half of the force giving chase to the retreating army while the other heads to liberate Alcantara.

https://i.imgur.com/3LoGISa.jpg?1

However, the Andalusians manage to flee into their mountains, resulting in weeks of grueling guerrilla warfare, made even worse by the arriving reinforcements. Christendom finally secures another victory, but at much greater cost than expected. Theophanes is forced to summon the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre to his dwindling army's aid.

https://i.imgur.com/3l1F54v.jpg?1

All that feels secondary, however, when Nazareen gives birth to sickly but resolute Kaisarios IV. He is the first Skleros to be 'born in the purple' to a reigning Basileus, a great birthright in itself.

https://i.imgur.com/wnmHZx7.jpg?1

Both sides decide to focus on sieging their respective goals. The Greek armies have lost many a man, but the Andalusians are even more devastated.

https://i.imgur.com/svSFBEG.jpg?1

Some months pass without a battle, but after seeing the Brothers land in Iberia, the Umayyads start to realize they can't win this particular war and eventually agree to a peace in León's favor. It is a symbolic victory for the Church, but León really won't be safe for long. The Greeks quickly deal with León's remaining rebels before heading home.

https://i.imgur.com/rTtd2Yy.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/YbyhaOO.jpg?1

The Exarchesses prove useful, utilizing their rights of local legislation to continue fixing the mess that is Imperial Law.

https://i.imgur.com/vdcd37d.jpg?1

Jewish power in Europe wanes again as Bulgaria's war is successful and the Knights Hospitaller manage to break free from their remote overlords. On the other hand, the surge of Khazars following Khantia's founding has already tainted Croatia with their foreign faith and culture.

https://i.imgur.com/fM792Hy.jpg?1

For the Empire, however, the next couple years are surprisingly peaceful. The Umayyads clearly got beaten rather badly, afraid and unable to try again right away. Only in 1165 do vague rumors arrive of another potential yet quite nonthreatening invader. What do these minor commanders find so interesting about an Empire they can't possibly fight? Are they just in it for the challenge, the deadly thrill?

https://i.imgur.com/RQojyts.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/4JyvQ47.jpg?1

The King of León declares a holy war against Aquitaine for the forced conversion (and conquest) of Gascogne. As a King-Bishopric, Aquitaine remains one of the Schismatics' last strongholds. Something about a Crusade against other Christians still feels wrong, though. Aquitaine's army has been devastated by a recent war with Burgundy; León should be able to handle this on its own. The Empire will not dirty its hands with such infighting, but won't argue against it either. After all, a stronger León is ultimately in Christendom's favor and Aquitaine is a haven of heretics. The war is ultimately inconclusive, though.

https://i.imgur.com/ZeITE24.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/SKmuEaD.jpg?1

It takes two years for Herbert Karling to finally declare his ambitious war. He boasts an army of 20 000 men recruited from his French homeland, but his attempt is still quite hopeless.

https://i.imgur.com/iaC9RoJ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/yZARmRg.jpg?1

Half a year later, a surprisingly impressive fleet floats into the Cilician Sea, only to drop off a comparatively tiny force that is easily crushed by the Greeks waiting nearby.

https://i.imgur.com/E5mkG7j.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Brf3r4y.jpg?1

Meanwhile, the Basileus has to choose a good tutor for the 6-year-old Kaisarios, settling on his nephew and commander Philaretos. He may be young, but he's a natural-born leader and valiant warrior of the faith, which is more than enough.

https://i.imgur.com/VxiTJaW.jpg?1

Waiting for the second group of invaders, the ever-expanding Doux of Antioch manages to wrest the Duchy of Mosul away from its Muslim overlords. The Empire has made an official decision not to expand eastward right now, but it doesn't really restrict individual vassals. The Hellenic border is tantalizingly close to the Caspian Sea, and Persia itself...

https://i.imgur.com/hgRoT1d.jpg?1

Two more sparsely placed battles later, Herbert is captured and summarily tossed in The Hole for daring to trample the Doux of Cibyrrhaeot's figurative lawn. It's been quite a while since The Hole has been used, but a little moss probably won't bother him for long.

https://i.imgur.com/PzM7kxZ.jpg?1

Eight years ago the Sultan of Mauretania declared a Jihad for León's part of Badajoz; now it's time for León's retribution! It's practically just a single County, but... a matter of principle as well. The Empire must keep its promise and help these men of Christ reclaim their homeland!

https://i.imgur.com/nV1mgBU.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/tVAcgKa.jpg?1

Of course, even if León had a chance of beating Mauretania itself, Andalusia is quick to join and make sure that Greece has to do all the work. Again.

https://i.imgur.com/h5krZqI.jpg?1

Insufficient knowledge of enemy movements leads to a surprising and very violent clash in the very same mountains of Béjar as last time. With all of the enemy force fighting only half of the Greeks', the battle turns bad very fast and commander Philaretos makes the wise decision to try and retreat rather than fight to the death for no reason.

https://i.imgur.com/4fbOGRE.jpg?1

The Umayyads catch up with him, but this maneuver allows the other Greek division to join the battle and flank the enemy, securing a near-decisive victory from the jaws of defeat.

https://i.imgur.com/zELehmc.jpg?1

The Greeks move on to lick their wounds and besiege Badajoz. The King of León dies of serious injuries suffered in combat, putting a toddler on the throne. The war continues practically unimpeded, but the realm will be even more fragile in the near future.

https://i.imgur.com/8JEpAUn.jpg?1

Having lost control of the contested area after two years of fierce fighting, the Umayyads finally concede this tiny plot of land. Something like, say, the Leonese heartland would probably have been more valuable, but it wasn't the Greeks' choice to make.

https://i.imgur.com/S3Y2FP0.jpg?1

In the aftermath of the war, a treasonous Duke exploits the regency to name himself King of Galicia and break away from the realm. It's quite a frustrating setback in the struggle for an united Iberian realm, but perhaps he'll actually be more successful than the Leonese.

https://i.imgur.com/DIKLnVA.jpg?1

Within the next year, many people decide to try and exploit the Umayyads' momentary weakness. The Leonese vassal Duchy of Navarra claims its rightful territory while the Burgundians try to push further inland from their Catalonian foothold. Though the Navarrese are less ambitious, Theophanes chooses to focus on helping them, since they're probably going to need it more.

https://i.imgur.com/uP8jEPx.jpg?1

It's honestly quite a simple and nondescript affair. The Muslims' troops have barely recovered at all from the recent war, making them easy pickings. After that, all Greece needs to do is help Navarra take a few critical targets. Sieging is slow business, though, and it takes three years for the Sultan to surrender.

https://i.imgur.com/oFqxJbY.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/NMsk5oD.jpg?1

After that, the Greeks decide to help Burgundy too before sailing back to Greece.

https://i.imgur.com/n6gVKzM.jpg?1

In these two wars, Islam has lost a great deal of land in the northeast. Of course, this is already the second time in relatively recent history that these same areas have been supposedly reclaimed for Christendom, so their valiant protectors must keep their guard up in order not to lose them again.

https://i.imgur.com/cYcTZTH.jpg?1

For the 35-year-old Theophanes, however, all these years of warfare have been just rather quiet, daily life. Being the Basileus hasn't been nearly as exciting as he expected. It is lonely at the top, and secretly wanting affection he has decided to start dedicating more time to his close and extended family.

https://i.imgur.com/C89bhAW.jpg?1

In December 1174, the Khazar Jews of Constantinople start rioting and disrupting the preparations for the Christmas fair. They still form the clear majority of the local population, yet they have no public representation and their existence is officially pretty much denied, which just exacerbates the Varangian Guard's violent mistreatment of them. This rebellion starts as a desperate attempt to gain some basic liberties, but ultimately just spills out into the surrounding countryside, ravaging Christian-owned estates and utterly ruining many a holiday.

https://i.imgur.com/dPYEVoG.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/3shYDT5.jpg?1

It takes almost embarrassingly long, but the army and the Varangian Guard finally show up to get rid of the vermin. Their leader is brought to the Blasphemer's Block for rioting at such an inconvenient and holy time.

https://i.imgur.com/rmkc7nx.jpg?1

Unsurprisingly, the weaker-than-ever León comes under attack by a large alliance of Sheiks serving the Umayyads. The Greeks will have to sail west once again... Many commanders speculate how nice it'd be to have a proper standing army they could station in Iberia, but such a system seems impossible in a feudal society.

https://i.imgur.com/z1GPvel.jpg?1
The Hellenic Doukes have managed to secure all of the Armenian mountains for the Empire. A pocket of Islam still remains in Syria, though.

https://i.imgur.com/4rT7Paa.jpg?1

After standing strong for centuries, the King-Bishopric of Aquitaine has been badly fragmented by its neighbors seeking to destroy the Catholic nest. The ”Belt of Lothaire” between France and Germany is splintered as ever, yet the rump Kingdom of Lotharingia still ekes out a pained existence.

https://i.imgur.com/6qTkhZY.jpg?1

Denmark has managed to modernize quite well and consolidate its power, pushing further and further north. Finland has emerged again, but may very well be subjugated at any time. The Volgan Rus has managed to reclaim their position as the greatest power of the east.

https://i.imgur.com/OoE4Vur.jpg?1

The Abbasid Sultanate of Arabia has managed to unite most of the peninsula, but there is seldom a time that they aren't fighting with pretenders, tribes or invaders. Speaking of invaders, after two centuries of stability, the Christians of Makurian-ruled Nubia have suffered a great defeat against the Muslims of Afar.

https://i.imgur.com/lOxBbvh.jpg?1

Having endured a long era of fragmentation, North Africa may finally have settled into an arrangement of the Yusufids, the Berkanids and a couple buffer states between them.

https://i.imgur.com/8nIUoXB.jpg?1

Persia and Bukhara are both in a steep decline, losing land to rebels and conquest.

https://i.imgur.com/BaotTw9.jpg?1

Khazaria has become a hideous patchwork of all its break-off states and tribes vying for control of the frankly rather worthless land.

https://i.imgur.com/kdRAz13.jpg?1
Alternate chapter title: Hellenic National Gallery presents - Maps of Iberia

I've been trying to formulate a guideline of what I post and what I don't, even if I deviate from it all the time...

What I've ended up with is this: my goal is to make an entertaining and interesting AAR while also, y'know, keeping you aware of what's going on. This includes plenty of world-building: creating and establishing details and depth for this alternate history beyond those provided by the game. This might be difficult to communicate at times, since I'm likely to be more invested in it than anyone else. The optimal result moves the ”plot” forward (though I guess that kinda happens automatically, this being a game and all) without being a chore to read, or to write for that matter.

Since wars, rebellions and plenty of events definitely get rather formulaic, I try to focus on the parts where I a) have something ”interesting” to say and/or b) it's actually relevant. When it comes to conflict, the reasons and results are much more important than the exact events of every battle, where I only include the most momentous parts. Fluff about tactical maneuvers or oppressed minorities ultimately adds much more than the 352nd identical battle screen, though I still feel obligated to show at least some of those. Random popups about my third cousins who I've never mentioned and probably won't again are left out, since they break the flow of the chapter (if such a thing even exists) and clutter it with big screenshots of little importance.

Yeah, this turned into Writing for Dummies 101... maybe this section should just be called Author's Ramblings...

P.S. Why are there so many adventurers these days? Does the Horse Lords system somehow apply to westerners too?

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #16: The Bored Basileus (1175-1193)

When enough lowly vassals decide to band together, they can muster surprising strength. The Leonese army lies dead in the fields and the Muslims are rampaging around both Badajoz and the capital.

https://i.imgur.com/XwZwdxZ.jpg?1

Luckily, their diverse leadership also leads to fragmentation in their forces. With excellent timing, the Greeks manage to engage two separate armies at the same time rather than letting them regroup and defend themselves properly. The invaders had managed to seize some castles, but they're barely defended and easily retaken.

https://i.imgur.com/zMz2bbd.jpg?1

The largest battle of the war is fought at the walls of the Leonese capital, Oviedo. The Greek army manages to catch a smaller siege dispatchment, and by the time the enemy reinforcements arrive, their situation is already hopeless and they end up just adding to the casualties.

https://i.imgur.com/Rpe49Nr.jpg?1

A few months later, when it's Greece's turn to occupy the enemy's territory, the Sheikhs call the whole thing off due to sudden infighting in their realm. The Greeks are forced to just shrug and turn away.

https://i.imgur.com/NpEiTSn.jpg?1

Just as the army sets sail for home, however, Theophanes receives a message from the Doux of Aleppo and his many conspirators: they're ranting about elective monarchy again and trying to force it upon the realm (again)! Of course, they can't really expect the Basileus to accept any such thing.

https://i.imgur.com/8KHyAOL.jpg?1

The rebellion is quite massive, but their separation should once again be the crown's greatest asset.

https://i.imgur.com/Pff9CQR.jpg?1

The Umayyads start yet another Jihad, but Greece might not be there to help this time.

https://i.imgur.com/qiyR71d.jpg?1

Indeed, over the course of a year, the crown wins three separate battles in Tripoli, Nikaea and Longobardia. Theophanes sits in his palace feeling nice and hereditary, especially as Prince Kaisarios IV celebrates his 16th birthday and ascension to legal adulthood. He is a crafty commander and plotter, but has very little interest in reading and writing, especially science or theology of any sort. Bookkeeping is tolerable, since it can at least fund his other activities. Despite having barely opened the Bible, he is zealous in his faith yet still humble before God, as a strong contrast to his harshness towards infidels or those who betray his trust.

https://i.imgur.com/1KQBi0e.jpg?1

Their armies crushed, the rebels submit to Theophanes' mercy. All twelve Doukes and the Exarchessa of Jerusalem are locked in a fortified wing of the palace to await their judgment. Theophanes ponders the right balance between justice and practicality.

https://i.imgur.com/cQoDOSs.jpg?1

The Empire still has time to save León, though! The battered and utterly exhausted army sails west once again. Many nobles and commanders wonder whether it might be a better choice to abandon the shattered realm to its fate and align with the much more solid Galicia instead.

https://i.imgur.com/UHJ7atU.jpg?1

The commanders report success a year later, but this really isn't going anywhere. Both sides have wasted tremendous amounts of time, money and manpower – the Muslims in particular – without making almost any gains whatsoever. While Christendom has won time and again, those victories have done rather little. León really needs to take matters into its own hands and begin an offensive war, but it's far too weak to do so.

Theophanes feels that in the midst of all this warfare he must secure additional swords for the Empire. He makes a deal with the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre, led by Theodosios Skleros: they will swear allegiance to the Hellenic Empire, the true protector of the faith, and serve the Basileus personally. In exchange, they will finally be granted direct control of Jerusalem itself. With their base in the great castle of Mirabel, they'll finally be able to truly focus on their original goal.

https://i.imgur.com/S37AQ6t.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/GFcyXdc.jpg?1

It's also about time that Theophanes deal with the revolutionaries. They've spent a year reflecting on their deeds in their gilded cage; one Duchess actually managed to escape by seducing a guard captain and has yet to be found, but the others will be judged all the same. Theophanes has settled on the classic approach of revoking their fiefdoms and granting them to more loyal vassals. With so many influential lords involved, this is a very large but clearly needed rearrangement of power within the Empire.

After that, multiple years pass without anything really worthy of mention. The outlaw Duchess is found and executed. There are a few feudal disputes inside and outside the Empire, but nothing to shake the Basileus' power. Theophanes entertains himself by spending time with his sprawling, seeminglyendless dynasty and engaging in some (mostly unlucky) gambling.

https://i.imgur.com/3odK2By.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/kbdzVuq.jpg?1

Even if Theophanes has nothing to do, that doesn't mean the rest of the world will just sit quietly for ten years. During a lapse in Greek protection, Badajoz is stormed by a Muslim lightning assault and León surrenders before the Greeks can even make it there. What remains of León is subsequently conquered by the King of Galicia, who declares himself its new King. He proves vastly more successful than the old ruler, conquering a chunk of the collapsing Aquitaine and even reclaiming Castile for Christendom.

https://i.imgur.com/9Pc2fAU.jpg?1

The Basileus' long peace, uninterrupted by his vassals' petty infighting, isn't broken until 1189 when the Lombard population of Amalfi – perhaps the very last true remnant of that ancient barbarian invasion – finally decides to rise against its oppressors. Under pressure from Greek and Italian culture alike, the Lombard language and ways are steadily dying, and this group has decided to try and stop that decline by forming an independent haven for their people. Of course, against the Hellenic Empire, it's all quite futile...

https://i.imgur.com/dTcdcqf.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/qjzH50b.jpg?1

Their less than 5 000 barely organized men are easily slaughtered by the army, their brief moment of glory put to a bloody end. Their leader Thrasimund is executed on the Block, as is the custom for grand treason.

https://i.imgur.com/aIJbmYn.jpg?1

Theophanes has pretty much gotten used to this leisurely lifestyle, but as his 50th birthday arrives, it finally strikes him: He is the first Basileus of the Hellenic Empire! He united the Church! He used to have ambitions, grand goals! For decades he has done his best to follow the foreign policy set by the Congress, even long after all its members have died or been dismissed. He doesn't regret spending more time with his family, but is this what he wants to be remembered for? Something great other people did for him when he was only a boy?

He will finally head east, where the Greeks' ancestral destiny lies! He will erase the Muslim-drawn borders and personally stand on the shore of the Caspian Sea!

https://i.imgur.com/hW1quB3.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/xOJ6V3g.jpg?1

Almost all the levies of the realm are mobilized for this Crusade – far more than are actually needed, but showing the might of the Empire is pretty much the point anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/jKoBDLO.jpg?1

Marching and sailing to Azerbaijan takes quite a while, of course, and the first battle isn't fought until half a year into the war. The Yazidids have crossed into Hellenic Armenia, from whence they are repelled despite the mountains and the Kura River impeding the Greeks' assault.

https://i.imgur.com/l2VBXJu.jpg?1

Sovereigns leading their own troops has a glorious precedent, set by great people like St. Kaisarios, yet it has been a while since Greece had a proper Conqueror-King. It is only appropriate that the first Basileus invoke the legacy of first King and oversee the largest army personally. Not even the surprisingly biting winter of the mountains can calm the crusaders' zeal!

https://i.imgur.com/k7jffZ5.jpg?1

No more pitched battles follow, however, and the Emir admits his defeat about a year after the first one.

https://i.imgur.com/rNCIQqV.jpg?1

The triumphant Theophanes gets to wash his tired body in the Caspian Sea, just like he promised himself. This is already further east than any Greek realm since Alexander's time has ever reached. It might be a rather nominal achievement in many people's eyes, but Theophanes doesn't mind.

https://i.imgur.com/zn7ILUP.jpg?1

He dies a happy man in his bed some months later, on the 4th of July 1193. Perhaps he got sick on that little swim... Despite his last attempts, he is mostly remembered for happening to sit at the throne when the Empire was founded and the Christian faith reformed, though he does get a disproportionate amount of credit for it. On the other hand, his efforts are what kept Islam from completely overrunning Iberia. He wasn't a particularly pleasant person, but still a competent ruler who loved his expanded family greatly.

https://i.imgur.com/WJITQGN.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/2r9FHKB.jpg?1

Long live Kaisarios Skleros, fourth of his name, Basileus of the Hellenic Empire, King of Greece, Sicily and Anatolia, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika and Chalkidike, Sovereign Lord of Egypt and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/ImVHbjw.jpg?1
A relatively uneventful 17 years, yet it still took all day to play/sit through. A friendly reminder that I really have to upgrade my computer, especially if I want to ever make it through the remaining 250... I've heard a good SSD can really do wonders for Paradox games. :smalltongue:

Oh, right, apparently the Khazar rule of Constantinople caused a bug that destroyed the Ecumenical Patriarchate – as in, the title itself. We have a Patriarch of Constantinople, but they don't hold the title, so they're not officially the religious head and can't call crusades etc. My first attempts to fix this by editing the save file were unsuccessful, but I just might have to try again.

[Tentreto]

You seem to be doing well without crusades! But yes, we need a nominal head back!

I'm beginning to think Leon is a lost cause... Maybe lending money might help?

Aside from this, reaching the sea is a good achievement, and it all seems to be going well.


Your biggest problem now is almost literally becoming the Byzantine Empire again-plagued by infighting. Either way, keep up the good work!

[Flickerdart]

The basileus dies in 1993? That doesn't seem right. :smallamused:

[SilverLeaf167]

I'm beginning to think Leon is a lost cause... Maybe lending money might help?
I think this Leon v2.0 might be somewhat more stable, but we'll see. Still, the Umayyads are one of the strongest countries around, so unless the various French states step up their game, we'll still be babysitting Iberia for a while.


The basileus dies in 1993? That doesn't seem right. :smallamused:
His real final achievement was achieving time travel with help from his father's writings. He died so suddenly (and happily) due to overdosing on hamburgers. :smallwink:

[SilverLeaf167]

SPECIAL #4: The Shame of Béjar (1168)

https://i.imgur.com/VxiTJaW.jpg?1

Philaretos Skleros muttered to himself in frustration. What little he could comprehend of the second-rate maps and figurines strewn around his desk contradicted everything his scouts were saying about the lay of the land and the Umayyad troops' movements. Even worse, his scouts couldn't agree either: the riders of the XII Cavalry Legion reported that over a dozen thousand Muslims had set up camp across the Dureo River to the north, yet the VI insisted they were marching in from the east. Philaretos had the sneaking suspicion that they might both be right. If that was indeed the case, he was in big trouble.

Chrysanthos peeked in through the tent flap, letting in a ray of light that broke Philaretos' concentration. He looked up in annoyance. Even younger than Philaretos himself, the boy was a Skleros on his father's side just like him, but so was half the nobility these days, and their relation was very distant. He was the son of some minor lord in the Holy Land who'd decided to seek glory in the military, his dynasty earning him an instant promotion. His foreign looks and mannerisms, inherited from his local mother, caused occasional snickering among the men, but Philaretos could easily sympathize, looking uncomfortably Khazar-like himself in the eyes of many patriots.

Unfazed by the glare he received, Chrysanthos opened his mouth. ”My lord, there's been word from Pollux. They report no contact with any major force, and the occupiers of Alcantara don't pose a threat either.”
Philaretos assumed these were supposed to be good news, but they just confirmed his fears. If there were no troops opposing Pollux - the nickname of the other half of the Hellenic force in Iberia – then they might all have been enclosing on Castor instead. Collapsing into his chair, he muttered absentmindedly: ”Send the messenger back immediately. Tell them to come and support us.”
”M-my lord?”
Philaretos leered at him again. ”We are in Umayyad territory. There are Muslims to the north of us, Muslims to the east of us, and if we don't act quickly, they'll be to the south of us too! Armies don't just disappear into thin air.”
Chrysanthos bowed and left the tent with a confused look on his face. A passable leader he may have been, but he clearly had no concept of strategy. He'd do alright leading a charge, as long as you told him where and when to do it.
Philaretos ended up just staring at the maps in silence for quite a while. He would've summoned the Leonese too, but they were all dead or routed, as usual. The petty Kingdom of León had obviously suffered the most from the endless fighting in this area, and the fact that it had even this many troops to spare for war after war spoke of a conscription system even harsher than Greece's.

In the next few days, the ethereal pressure of an upcoming battle became stronger and stronger. Almost every scouting mission ended in a bloody skirmish and the Army of Castor lost contact with two of its farthest outposts. It was outnumbered two-to-one and needed every advantage it could get, so Castor ended up packing up and moving to a small valley to the southwest where the Umayyads would have no choice but to try and attack head on, from a single direction.
This same area, the county of Béjar, had been the site of the Empire's most important victory in León's previous crusade. However, this was actually Philaretos' first time leading an army as its merarches and he had very little actual experience, so the outcome was nowhere near certain this time around. Philaretos had the men set up quick barricades, but there was no time for any real fortifications, as the battle was already about to begin.
The summery sunshine was absolutely scorching when the enemy finally stampeded onto the scene, the footsteps of over 30 000 mujahideen echoing from the valley's stone walls as they poured into the narrow causeway. Philaretos' much-awaited reinforcements had yet to arrive, so all he had were 15 000 men, positioned as best he could. It would still be quite a massive battle, its size impossible to truly picture, and that was far more lives than he wanted to personally answer for.
Bolstered by a fierce chant, the enemy finally charged after what felt like hours of posturing. In the open field, their numbers were trimmed somewhat by the synchronized volleys of over 3 000 disciplined bowmen, and when their vanguard finally reached the Greeks' forested positions in the narrowest part of this great arena, it was pushed back by a bristling metal wall of pikes and blades, more defenders taking the place of any man lost. Before long, however, that defensive line started to buckle under the sheer weight of the endless horde, and the Muslims' own backup returned fire upon Greece's unprotected archers further up in the treeless part of the sloping valley.

Philaretos observed this bloodshed from a protected position even higher than the archers, shouting orders nobody could hear. Everything was being handled according to Hellenic doctrine and experience, yet the difference in numbers seemed insurmountable. Of course, the Greek army still had its greatest trump card left: the elite cataphract cavalry!
Almost as if on cue, Chrysanthos Skleros and his fearless knights emerged from the side of the valley, let out a beastly roar and charged down the hill by the thousand! Philaretos could already almost hear the infidels being trampled, their lines broken in panic... but something was wrong. Very wrong.
Chrysanthos was charging in the wrong direction! After the front lines had clashed, he'd been supposed to pierce the enemy's unprotected flank and rear, driving the whole army into chaos. However, the foolish youngster had seen the vanguard's gruesome struggle and decided to head there instead! Not only was he wasting the opportunity that could've turned the whole battle around, he was actually trampling and confusing his own comrades in his blind charge for glory. If the Hellenic lines hadn't been broken already, they sure were now. Even the cataphracts were being struck down from horseback or crushed by their own mounts. Philaretos was absolutely horrified, but most importantly, absolutely livid. He couldn't let that dictate his actions, however. He was forced to do something practically unheard of in recent Greek military history, something that went against the whole nation's ideals of fundamental Greekness, their glorious visions of the one true Spartan spirit. The merarches almost couldn't believe the words emanating from his own throat as he mounted his horse and raised his red banner.

”Castooooooor! RETREEEEEEEAT!”

The outrageous order was quickly passed down the lines, almost the whole army sharing Philaretos' own incredulity. In all their arduous training, this possibility had somehow been practically ignored. With that in mind, the massive maneuver went surprisingly well by all accounts, yet it was still a massacre. Many were forced to sacrifice themselves to let their friends and comrades escape, but they accepted their fate like true warriors. Greatly exaggerated legends speak of a glorious 300 soldiers who stayed behind and fought on for hours to keep the wave of Islam at bay, despite suffering crippling wounds. The "craven" Philaretos, on the other hand, was basically demonized before the retreat was even over. Enemy archers redoubled their efforts, claiming many more in the mayhem that ensued as thousands of heavily armored soldiers tried to clamber up and over the hill, out of the valley of death. Philaretos rode at the very front, waving the accursed banner that had come to symbolize his own men's blood rather than the enemy's.

The Army of Castor did make it out – however, the tally of the battle was not pretty. Over half had perished, the enemy taking much fewer casualties despite attacking a very defensible position. It was a day of shame for all of Greece, and Philaretos in particular.

https://i.imgur.com/4fbOGRE.jpg?1

He was almost glad that Chrysanthos had been among the first to die in his ill-fated assault. Philaretos wasn't sure what he would have done to the boy – or rather, whether he could have done what the fool deserved for his failure. Perhaps it was better to die in the pursuit of your ambitions than to be executed like a traitor for having the guts to chase them.

Philaretos had to take the blame, disgraced in the eyes of his own men. He did guide his exhausted division south to join with the Army of Pollux and pay back his debt to the Umayyads thrice over, but at that point, even if his retreat had been strategically sound and ultimately critical, there was no way he could lead these same men again. After this petty yet no less traumatic crusade was done, he retired to Greece and devoted himself to tutoring the young Kaisarios IV. Perhaps, by proxy, Philaretos could make up for what even he saw as the greatest mistake a Greek commander could ever make.

https://i.imgur.com/zELehmc.jpg?1
No idea what people think about these random snippets, but I sure like writing them, so you'll just have to bear with me. :smalltongue: Military tactics are close to my heart, even though I'm probably horrible at them.

I spend a disturbing amount of time thinking about unnecessary details, so if you ever feel like you'd appreciate a closer examination of some event, some aspect of the Empire etc. just mention it, no matter how petty! I have trouble coming up with subjects anyway.

[OrcusMcP]

I want to know more about these Viceroys we have appointed and what can be done to make them more.... sinister. :smallamused:

Perhaps we might need MORE viceroys. :smallamused:

[SilverLeaf167]

Ah, indeed... perhaps our less-than-analytical Basileus' quill will slip and he'll be less careful about who he chooses for the office? :smallwink:
I'm intrigued by the idea of an independent Neo-Ptolemaic Egypt, for instance...
I won't give anyone independence outright (without a very good reason), but they seem pretty faction-happy on their own. Of course, said factions somehow manage to lose even when they have double my men, but what am I supposed to do? "Pull a Chrysanthos" on purpose? :smalltongue:

Seriously though, doing badly on purpose is something I'm, ironically, very bad at. I'm just too good

[Flickerdart]

Consider surrendering to some factions without putting up a fight - many a Kind ruler, for instance, might consider it worthwhile to loosen the Crown Authority instead of leading thousands of their own people to die, and an Arbitrary emperor might not even care about releasing a couple of annoying states if it means not having to deal with them anymore.

[OrcusMcP]

Consider surrendering to some factions without putting up a fight - many a Kind ruler, for instance, might consider it worthwhile to loosen the Crown Authority instead of leading thousands of their own people to die, and an Arbitrary emperor might not even care about releasing a couple of annoying states if it means not having to deal with them anymore.

Yeah, pretty much this.

[mythmonster2]

For what it's worth, I do quite like the little special features. They're something rather unique to this AAR, and it's nice to go in-depth on things that only took in-game days.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #17: The Fierce Father (1193-1217)

Kaisarios hasn't really changed much in his adulthood. His ruthless and warlike nature has been exacerbated by a bit of paranoia, but all his other flaws and virtues still remain.

https://i.imgur.com/iGUIm8n.jpg?1

His first wife, Douce Karling, died of illness some years ago. Young Eusebia Skleros is the daughter of the Doux of Adrianopolis and quite a sight to behold, but also very arrogant and self-serving.

https://i.imgur.com/s0x9UkH.jpg?1

Douce bore Kaisarios two sons: Gerasimos is the elder, and thus the heir for now, but quite unremarkable: a mild or even craven boy, more interested in eating than anything else.

[sigh, missed the screenshot somehow]

Theophanes II, however, shows a great deal of that forgotten Skleros ingenuity, and is rightfully proud of it. Many speculate that there's a good chance the Basileus might use his right to name Theophanes his heir one day, bypassing the older brother.

https://i.imgur.com/qdcOrvc.jpg?1

Kaisarios is eager to go out and fight some wars! His father never allowed him to lead an army, hoping to keep the succession secure, but he's his own lord now. Theophanes I's reign also made it abundantly clear that the Empire can't devote itself to the defense of Iberia, for no real progress is made there. However, it is less than obvious where the Greeks should aim instead. Should they continue to push east, following the example Theophanes set in his final years? Should they head for Egypt or the Mediterranean? Should they try and strike against the ever-strengthening Sultanate of Arabia?

https://i.imgur.com/yReFNBe.jpg?1

The Basileus reluctantly accepts his advisors' suggestion that he think about the matter for a while instead of recklessly rushing into it.

Just a few days later, the Doux of Armeniacon - his self-declared rival – challenges him to a duel, a gesture made quite awkward by the fact that he legally required Kaisarios' permission to do so in the first place. It is clear that Pantoleon II is somehow bitter about his rise to the throne, as if he considered himself a claimant thanks to being distantly related. The duel is ultimately quite the anticlimax, being fought between a skilled warrior and a feeble womanizer. Pantoleon barely has time to regret his decision before being knocked out by a single blow from Kaisarios' hilt.

https://i.imgur.com/qugHhiF.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/XXhjQgX.jpg?1

Kaisarios' encounters with his understandably numerous enemies continue as he's ambushed by a great bear while on a hunting trip, only to be saved by Chrysanthos Euforbenos, another man he really doesn't get along with. This dramatic scene rather mirrors one of Kaisarios II's adventures, except back then it was the King doing the saving. Even if the Basileus still despises Chrysanthos, he can appreciate his loyalty nonetheless.

https://i.imgur.com/bxhOEue.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/pvfKlpL.jpg?1

After a year of contemplation, Kaisarios decides to attack the Berkanid Sultanate's Egyptian holdings, claiming the relatively small but very wealthy Emirate of Cairo.

https://i.imgur.com/VjRCKPc.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/7XRKu8t.jpg?1

The Hellenic Empire's rule of the waves allows the Greeks to gather in Damietta and march over the border long before the Muslims can mount up any defenses in the area.

https://i.imgur.com/3huiE0R.jpg?1

When part of the Berkanid army finally shows up in Sinai, it is met by a Greek force led by the impressive trio of Kaisarios and the two Exarchs themselves. It's not a particularly large battle in itself, but the Basileus is thrilled to finally be at the front and almost overcome with a lust for more.

https://i.imgur.com/ZTsJ94y.jpg?1

Even though practically all of Arabia and North Africa is nominally participating in the defence of Cairo, they don't seem to be doing all that much. By the time they start showing up in force, the Berkanids are already willing to accept Kaisarios' terms.

https://i.imgur.com/zBNPeTE.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/n0RyFna.jpg?1

However, he's suddenly threatened from another direction: his own younger brother Theodosios is hatching some foolish plan of claiming the Hellenic Throne! It is a futile endeavor, of course, but such treason is even more sinful against one's close kin. He's lucky to be residing abroad... It's a very awkward situation nevertheless, pitting two brothers against each other.

https://i.imgur.com/NdVh9ES.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/X0gYXke.jpg?1

Kaisarios isn't terribly worried, though, since every similar invasion has been a pathetic failure in the past. Instead, he's discovered the wonders of military history and partially overcome his disgust towards reading! The content of the books makes up for their fundamentally boring nature, and Kaisarios is almost obsessed with becoming the best commander he can.

https://i.imgur.com/LyusFuc.jpg?1

Gerasimos turns 16, and while he's not an absolutely horrible general, it's clear that he's not a man you want ruling an Empire.

https://i.imgur.com/Msn1Mve.jpg?1

The 11-year-old Theophanes, on the other hand, is quite an exemplary specimen, so to speak. Strikingly intelligent and wise for his age, it is clear that he's the superior choice of heir. Kaisarios bestows upon him the honorary title of Despot, raising him above his brother in the line of succession.

https://i.imgur.com/V4ZecsC.jpg?1

A few months later, Kaisarios is informed that the cyclical demand for loosened Imperial laws has experienced sudden growth in Greece. The faction is led by Doux Basileios II of Krete, another of Kaisarios' bitter rivals. While he might even be willing to consider the other Doukes' conditions, there's no way he'd ever submit to him! The Basileus decides to preempt the issue by challenging the man to a duel. He almost surprisingly accepts.

https://i.imgur.com/smStKYl.jpg?1

Basileios isn't exactly known for his combat skills, making the result of the duel all the more embarrassing for Kaisarios. In a baffling display of competence, Basileios parries or dodges his furious blows, only to strike his legs as soon as he shows the slightest bit of fatigue. The incredulous Kaisarios does his best to keep fighting, but the wound proves too much for him, and he is forced to yield to the smirking bastard. It is obvious that the Basileus underestimated him. Nothing ultimately comes of the faction, but Kaisarios feels rather humiliated.

https://i.imgur.com/79XhhbB.jpg?1

Theodosios declares his mad conquest shortly after, having acquired a private army by hiring mercenaries and utilizing Skleroi contacts from Scotland, where he was hiding these past few years. His war is extremely ambitious, claiming the entire Hellenic Empire, but that doesn't mean he actually stands any more of a chance.

https://i.imgur.com/3fxDN7e.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/dfsr1hh.jpg?1

The Pretender Prince lands a mere third of his army in Athens where it is easily crushed by the Hellenic troops waiting nearby.

https://i.imgur.com/J8fWFBX.jpg?1

While the Empire has been ”busy”, so has León on its own front. By exploiting the Umayyads' moment of weakness, distracted by a war with Mauretania, the Leonese have managed to reclaim their eponymous Duchy! With León and Burgundy put together, almost half of Iberia is now controlled by Christians, but their work isn't done until the Muslims have been expelled once and for all!

https://i.imgur.com/UyAQ939.jpg?1

After really taking his sweet time and losing the second part of his army, Theodosios finally arrives in Greece personally, only to have his last men slaughtered and himself captured. As tempted as he is, Kaisarios will not be a kinslayer, opting to let his traitorous brother rot in a cell instead. He'll be kept fed and watered, but will hopefully never see the day of light again. It is a tough decision, but Kaisarios is being lenient if anything.

https://i.imgur.com/r6PfKZr.jpg?1

It doesn't take long for Kaisarios to grow bored with peace, though, so he decides to conquer the fragmented Sheikhdoms of Tabriz, south of Azerbaijan. These wars are mainly fought by the standing armies of the Phalanx, the Brotherhood and the Varangians, since he can't be bothered with the bureaucratic hassle of raising separate levies against such weak enemies.

https://i.imgur.com/mLeJ0cO.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/117ffTx.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/DaHYqu7.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Zn7kLcK.jpg?1

However, as much as he likes warfare, Kaisarios has grown somewhat disillusioned with the reality of crusading. He wasn't exactly fighting for his faith before, either, but now he hardly even cares about the Church's involvement. A war is a war is a war.

https://i.imgur.com/ux5Mmhi.jpg?1

Theophanes has grown up to be quite the prodigy, becoming a skillful diplomat and warrior, and not too shabby in the other aspects of governance either. Even the last doubters no longer question Kaisarios' decision to will the Empire to his younger son.

https://i.imgur.com/h9MGa8D.jpg?1

The Skleros reign of Italy, on the other hand, seems to have come to an end: after King Romanos III dies under very suspicious circumstances, the throne passes to his sister Laura. The very independent-minded woman decides to marry a Prince of France rather than consult the Imperial branch first, inadvertently ending her own line, since all her children will now be of the House von Vlaanderen rather than Skleroi. Originally won through war, Italy has effectively left the Greek sphere of influence through misguided marriage, and there's really nothing the Empire can do about it.

https://i.imgur.com/VVc8GX5.jpg?1

A few years of peace follow, but Kaisarios is always plotting something. However, even with his limited interest in bureaucracy, he recognizes the truth in his advisors' words: the Hellenic Empire is already quite vast, rich and populous. Not only is every new conquest less and less useful on the large scale, they actually make the realm less stable. It is very hard to maintain or defend an Empire and all its vassals when just reaching the scene takes months. Even then, the Basileus feels that the Greeks' dominance of the east has to be ensured somehow...

That's when it occurs to him: why not let the bastards keep themselves in check?

https://i.imgur.com/FUOLN2g.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/L5pVoHu.jpg?1

The use of tributaries as buffer states has a long history, having served as a practical option for various Empires through history. They'll govern and protect themselves, but pay taxes to their overlord and guard their borders as well. Why would the Hellenic Empire be an exception? Of course, those tributaries usually haven't been the size of Persia, but the Greeks have always been a visionary people. Shah Unpronounceable from the House of Even Worse will submit.

The Hellenic forces roll into Persia practically unopposed, the enemy army busy on another front.

After almost a year in the east, the Basileus receives a covert message that his wife has fallen pregnant. It is impossible for this to be Kaisarios' child! Trying to keep his fury in check, he sends the messenger back with orders to investigate and find out who Eusebia's lover might be.

https://i.imgur.com/2nbD1EZ.jpg?1

His spies soon point at Isidoros, a distant relative and minor Count from Cairo. This is unacceptable! When Kaisarios gets home, the man is dead...

https://i.imgur.com/oKHFuGD.jpg?1

The bastard Kyriakos is born some months later, denied the Purple Room of trueborn Imperial children. It is the horrified Eusebia's first sign that Kaisarios knows of the boy's heritage.

https://i.imgur.com/MqCndA7.jpg?1

Two years into the war, even as they're knocking on the gates of Esfahan, the Greeks have yet to meet a proper enemy force. The Shah must really want that piece of dirt they're fighting over with Bukhara.

https://i.imgur.com/fGXKqPF.jpg?1

Shah Unintelligible looks almost surprised when Kaisarios storms his castle and forces him to surrender. As of September 1208, Persia has been added to the Empire... sort of! One could argue that the Basileus has successfully emulated Alexander the Great, in his own way. He feels understandably pleased with himself, having subjugated the Greeks' ancestral archenemy. Of course, the Shah isn't exactly happy with the situation and will probably try to break free at the first opportunity. He insists on keeping his title, but in Greek eyes, he is now nothing but an inheritary Exarch.

https://i.imgur.com/LY6LO2G.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/YqtWllZ.jpg?1

Even after that momentous war, there is no rest for the Defender of the Faith. León and Burgundy are bickering over their previously conquered territories, so the Umayyads decide to take this opportunity and... rererereclaim them! Kaisarios doesn't mind sailing off before he even reaches home, pretty much forgetting all about the Count of Sarqihya for the moment, unaware that he has already died of well-timed illness anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/T5brI25.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/yh8DCP0.jpg?1

The Greek armies land in Burgundian Catalonia and converge in Aragon to catch the Muslims' main force on open terrain. Both sides take large casualties, but the Empire still emerges as the clear victor and most of the enemy's troops are eradicated in one fell swipe.

https://i.imgur.com/2ZzuLyT.jpg?1

While the triumphant Greeks are busy raiding the Andalusian coastline, far greater marauders stir in the distant east. The nomadic Mongols have been united under a single Khagan and are headed west for greener pastures. The much less united Khazars won't stand a chance... But the Hellenic Empire is blissfully unaware of this rising threat. Besides, that's what buffer states are for.

https://i.imgur.com/ejpY1UD.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/OeskPJo.jpg?1

Kaisarios nonchalantly finishes up his war and heads back home.

https://i.imgur.com/athUfnK.jpg?1

Not having seen her husband in five long years, Eusebia expects to be forgiven and leaps right into his arms when he arrives in Athens. However, all she gets in return is a furious slap. Kaisarios announces that the Patriarch has granted them a divorce and that the Queen should probably scurry back to her brother, the Doux of Adrianopolis. Tears in her eyes, Eusebia is forced to abandon her children and leave the Imperial Capital in disgrace.

https://i.imgur.com/iIbMTuy.jpg?1

Kaisarios has no interest in remarrying, preferring to rule by himself with no risk of marital treason. It's clear that not confronting his wife for years gave him a little too much time to sulk about the matter.

He is content with his achievements for now and stays at court to govern the Empire. He arranges a Grand Tournament for his own amusement and spends a lot of time either sparring or watching others fight. He may be over 50 years old, but that doesn't mean he'll just lay down and die.

https://i.imgur.com/a1IR2jc.jpg?1

The Basileus also visits his brother Theodosios regularly. Even he isn't sure why; the poor sod has been sitting in his cell for 14 long years, and it really hasn't done much good for his physical or mental health. The best he can do is rant at Kaisarios and try to throw things at him. Kaisarios can't help but wonder whether he made the right choice in locking him up, but there's really no going back now. You can't just arbitrarily release a prisoner you justifiedly sentenced over a decade ago... can you?

https://i.imgur.com/CHJyGqn.jpg?1

Kaisarios also spends a lot of time raising and training his third son Boethios. He is ridiculously strong and tall for his age, and would be virtuous in every way, if not for his strange interest in other boys... of course, it's quite hard to judge the sexuality of a child, right? He grows up into quite the warrior, a true knight, the whole court proud of him. Of course, they also get him a wife as soon as possible.

https://i.imgur.com/9BbAZRJ.jpg?1

In April 1217, the 55-year-old Kaisarios IV passes away. On his death bed, however, he gives his three sons an important message: he feels guilty for denying Gerasimos his birthright, even if it was for the good of the realm. He has thus decided to grant Gerasimos the Kingdom of Sicily, the second half of the traditional Twin Kingdoms that form the core of the Empire. Of course, so that Boethios won't feel unjustly left out – even if he had no birthright in the first place - he'll inherit Armenia instead. Both will remain within the Empire, vassals to their brother, but still have their own rich and vast demesnes to rule.

https://i.imgur.com/leQ6DiP.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/eNwijrj.jpg?1

Kaisarios 'the Blessed' himself is remembered for his formidable nature and successful wars, especially the subjugation of Persia, even if the dastardly Shah has utilized the confusion caused by this inheritance to stop paying his tributes. He was a strict but surprisingly wise leader throughout his reign.

https://i.imgur.com/38UeeNF.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/9dDlNUE.jpg?1

Long live Theophanes Skleros, second of his name, Basileus of the Hellenic Empire, King of Greece, Anatolia and Kurdistan, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika and Chalkidike, Sovereign Lord of Egypt, Azerbaijan and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/XKQ2RKV.jpg?1
Persia was just too juicy, I couldn't resist. Our font looked so great for a moment, even if I didn't get to show it to you! Why did nobody warn me that the tributary relation breaks upon character death, though? That's stupid, never bothering with that again. :smalltongue:

Now that I'm trying to avoid blobbing too much, I spend quite a bit of time just sitting around, but I suppose that's unavoidable. A lot of that idle time is used for looking at the rest of the world and wondering how it'll look/work when I eventually transfer to EU4.

Genghis Khan died within months of appearing and his son Ogodei wasted a lot of men already, but hey, at least they're there now. Pics in the next chapter, I suppose.

(I'm also definitely starting to run out of alliterative chapter titles, though EU4 was going to use a different naming scheme anyway)

[Tentreto]

Well, time to see if the mongols actually achieve anything...probably not. They always seem to falter early for me.:smallwink:

Three kingdoms, under 1 empire... this is where it gets interesting, especially if one becomes ambitious.
I look forward to future tribulations, possibly involving heretical horselords, devious despots, and baleful brothers.

[Rockphed]

No, you should put in the effort to make tributaries of all your neighbors you don't want to bother conquering. It will at least give you something to do. Also, can't they get called in to your wars? That makes them all the more useful as buffers against the Mongol death wave. And large realms are all the better since. Now, it is probably best to do the subjugating thing early in your reign, as in by age 30, but considering how easily you trounced Persia, it should be doable every generation.

[Corvus]

I enjoy those little snippets too. So many interesting things happen in game that make great stories but there isn't enough time to include in the report.

[SilverLeaf167]

I'm still just annoyed that tributaries break upon death, but I guess it's there to motivate you not to bother with large and strong countries (on the other hand, smaller tributaries are pretty worthless). I wonder how cool my name would look over Arabia and Persia... :smallwink: I guess making a semi-tradition of subjugating those two wouldn't hurt.

[SilverLeaf167]

SUPER SPECIAL AWESOME #5: Sūpā Jūjigun Kaisarios no Girisha na Bōken! (2015)

You thought the legendary Kaisariad was only popular in the West? You were wrong! Like any work of art worthy of being called such, it's also sparked Japanese interest, and an animated adaptation is in the works! Follow this epic tale, spanning many decades as young Kaisarios grows up to resist the rule of the cruel Gurren Khagan and achieve his divinely ordained destiny, as well as avenge the death of his beloved mentor! He must train to the fullest and face his inner demons if he is to channel his inner Piety and find the strength needed to defeat this legendary sorcerer in a final duel! Of course, fans of the medium can expect plenty of filler about his side adventures, last minute power-ups, philosophical debates in the middle of battle and probably a harem of some sort along the way, but it's all part of the experience!

https://i.imgur.com/4TaKFqt.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/5KnSMmv.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/YSYvKXM.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/i57KvGe.jpg?1

Sūpā Jūjigun Kaisarios no Girisha na Bōken! crashing through the city walls onto your screen, later this fall!
No, I'm not actually going to use the mod in the AAR, but you can find it here (http://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=511390130). :smallbiggrin:


Some more portraits (and a sneak peek of the Imperial Family):

Theophanes II, a little more bearded than I remembered.

https://i.imgur.com/tLcOlmM.jpg?1

His lovely wife Ingrid, straight from Denmark! Seems tender, but can punch you through a wall if you anger her!

https://i.imgur.com/5gsvTqK.jpg?1

Their son and the future Basileus, Pankratios! Kawaii as ****, but almost as strong as his fierce mother!

https://i.imgur.com/x74cwr5.jpg?1

Theophanes' kingly brothers, one much less fabulous than the other.

https://i.imgur.com/2jGKnk4.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/pAefQzR.jpg?1

Queen Laura of Italy looks really tired of your bull****. Perhaps she finally regrets her decisions in life.

https://i.imgur.com/Xl0DpQj.jpg?1

The sparklingly handsome 57-year-old King of Rus.

https://i.imgur.com/aoCSTtx.jpg?1

The "fearsome" conqueror from the East.

https://i.imgur.com/mNH4EXn.jpg?1

I am VERY sorry.

[Rockphed]

I am VERY sorry.

You should be. We didn't get any new information about how the Skleros continually subjugated Arabia and Persia every generation for over 100 years.

Which reminds me: What sort of relationship does the converter spit out for subjugations?

Edit: On the other hand, I found that all incredibly funny. I am mostly in a good mood now.

[SilverLeaf167]

No idea, but personally I'd just make them a vassal, I suppose. Of course, the more I fiddle with the conversion, the more it seems that I'll have to edit practically every country and province (of those visible on the CK2 map) manually. I've been doing a lot of stuff ahead of time, but it's mostly just replacing words here or there, so no big deal... even if there happens to be hundreds of said words. :smalltongue: The one thing the converter should do properly is figure out everyone's starting rulers, heirs and dynasties, which actually saves a lot of work, and provide a pretty good basis for borders, even if they still need plenty of tweaking.

I'll write a really long, rambling and probably pretty technical post about the process when we get to it one day.

[IthilanorStPete]

That's brilliant. :smallbiggrin: I love that little mod; are there any with some custom animesque event chains?

[SilverLeaf167]

Not as far as I know, but this one has really taken reddit by storm. :smalltongue:

And oh, I know no one asked and I almost considered not explaining the joke, but the chapter title means Super Crusader Kaisarios' Hellenic Adventure!

[OrcusMcP]

Applause (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NuFVQk_CCs)

http://www.reactiongifs.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/slow_clap_citizen_kane.gif


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NuFVQk_CCs

[SilverLeaf167]

Oh, you flatter me. :smallbiggrin:

The next chapter might take a few days; the weekend's been busy, much of Monday will be spent installing a new hard drive and Tuesday's at least partially occupied too. Tuesday evening is probably the earliest I can estimate.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #18: The Crusader's Crown (1217-1228)

Basileus Theophanes II is a great man in his prime, a master of all things government and blessed with a sharp intellect. He is not a scholar by any means, though, having more interest in the practical applications of his talents. He is social and charismatic, but his chronic pride can easily turn awkward situations sour.

https://i.imgur.com/JY5ls6L.jpg?1

His wife Ingrid is a Danish Princess who has utterly charmed the Greeks with her perfectly ladylike behavior and exotic looks, which pose an interesting contrast to her height and strength, part of her Norse heritage.

https://i.imgur.com/7ghGs1Z.jpg?1

Their oldest son and heir Pankratios has inherited his mother's fair appearance and excellent physique. The 11-year-old boy is shaping up to become quite an amiable ruler.

https://i.imgur.com/i7C4fWz.jpg?1

They also have four younger children: Margarita, Demetra, Komitas and Konstantinos. Most clearly take after their mother, but Komitas' appearance – completely unlike his mother or father's - has raised some eyebrows at court and started many rumors. Even though Theophanes trusts his wife and loves his son, the whispers still sting every time.

https://i.imgur.com/WTE53rd.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/7qGhnTC.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/DzLEdo0.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/FYuLYWY.jpg?1

In his will, the former Basileus Kaisarios IV gave two of his Kingdoms to Theophanes' brothers, but it isn't quite accurate to claim that the realm was ”split in three”. Sicily and Armenia are still subordinate to the Hellenic Empire, and Theophanes himself still holds three royal titles in addition to the direct loyalty of dozens of vassals. Of course, more power being centralized to individuals may still threaten the realm's stability in the future, especially as Sicily and Armenia aren't mere Exarchates subject to the Basileus' whims but proper hereditary titles.

https://i.imgur.com/FdIstUR.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/m7EWL02.jpg?1

Hoping to keep the Empire united and strong, Theophanes feels he must truly devote himself to the task. He spends all day and night working on all levels of the administration, and is glad to see his efforts bear fruit.

https://i.imgur.com/tcIooJf.jpg?1

As kind as he may seem, it appears that Boethios of Armenia is still quite warlike and doesn't hesitate to consolidate his power through force. At least he shows no signs of rebellion against Theophanes, and will thus also keep other rebels in check.

https://i.imgur.com/7SOXPzO.jpg?1

It seems that the Empire's most pressing issue is currently the Persian Question. The Shah, already very resentful of his defeat, has completely stopped paying his legal tributes or performing his other duties to the Empire, de facto denying the Empire's dominion over his lands. This is, of course, an unacceptable insult and a diplomatic incident (if there ever was any such thing as ”diplomacy” between Persia and Greece). The Basileus must resort to military measures to reassert control.

https://i.imgur.com/htFJiKC.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ihbDFH6.jpg?1

Granted that it takes half a year for the first Hellenic forces to cross the border, there are once again strangely few defenders in sight, even though the Shah shouldn't currently be embroiled in any other conflict to distract him, other than some minor unrest in the capital. Months later the scouts are almost excited to finally report a sighting, but it turns out that the spotted army is marching in the opposite direction.

https://i.imgur.com/ecqOx1F.jpg?1

Word arrives that the elderly Shah has died in his palace, putting his actually somewhat more competent son on the throne.

https://i.imgur.com/vFyWpsf.jpg?2

As it turns out, the new Shah's wife and heir are actually prisoners of war at the Hellenic forward base. They happened to get captured while trying to pass by a military roadblock and were assumed to be important due to their fancy carriage and escorts, presumably returning from some diplomatic visit. This should be quite a good motivator for the man to surrender soon enough.

https://i.imgur.com/rSRXbC8.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/eS8Cn9b.jpg?1

Theophanes' gracious treatment of the prisoners, on top of his previous conduct, have made him known to all his subjects as a just sovereign they can rely on.

https://i.imgur.com/jSBh1V8.jpg?1

About two years into the war, the Greek forces finally initiate a reckless assault after it becomes clear that Persia won't surrender without at least a single proper battle. Mountain combat is exhausting and bloody as always, but the Empire ultimately emerges as the victor.

https://i.imgur.com/2ykCUXI.jpg?1

The young Shah finally surrenders, swearing patently false fealty in exchange for the safe return of the Empire's prisoners.

https://i.imgur.com/a5Gq6tU.jpg?1

Hellenic dominance once again stretches from Venetia to Hormuz!

https://i.imgur.com/JRUTVGX.jpg?1

While his focus is on the east anyway, Theophanes decides to grab his rightful part of the Yusufid Caliphate's steadily dwindling holdings in the area. The land south of Damascus – still ruled by a man dubbing himself Emir of the rich city – shall be added to the Empire in no time.

https://i.imgur.com/OLzQRZz.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/tsNtCtd.jpg?1

Seizing the contested area is easy enough, since most of the enemy's strength is much further to the west. However, in less pleasant news, the Shah dies in battle against some petty rebels, once again practically breaking the Empire's hold over his realm. The Empire still maintains official claims of dominion but holds no true power east of Tabriz.

https://i.imgur.com/pzatKWA.jpg?1

The Umayyads land in Beirut and march south in a near-suicidal attack against the Brotherhood's contingent in defensive terrain. Though there are shocking signs of the knightly line almost buckling, the Brothers eventually come through and push the attackers back into the sea.

https://i.imgur.com/jvGgqgw.jpg?1

Having lost control of the ultimately rather worthless land and suffered such an embarrassing defeat, the enemy decides to just hand over the Emirate.

https://i.imgur.com/lxomaw7.jpg?1

Pankratios comes of age, ultimately something of a letdown: despite his great skill in combat he's only mediocre at command, which is what actually matters for a ruler, and despite his charisma and social skills he's horribly unsubtle and somewhat naive. Given his unusually mild nature, puberty just may have passed him by, or might just be a little late. Of course, Theophanes has set the bar for intelligence quite high, and Pankratios won't be a bad ruler by any means, but many people had practically expected a second Kaisarios – that is, you know, a second Kaisarios the Second... you get the point.

https://i.imgur.com/g3cIiQV.jpg?1

As the war ends and Theophanes returns to courtly matters, he can't seem to keep up his earlier pace any longer. There is too much to do, yet he insists on handling it all himself. This is probably not a very good decision in the long run...

https://i.imgur.com/eEMFdco.jpg?1

Word arrives from the east, the heartland of Judaism, that the faith is in great flux. Mainstream Judaism adheres to the oral laws and other additions that various rabbis and scholars have made to the Torah; however, the Karaite movement has been on the rise, insisting that only the Torah itself is legitimate and that all other additions are unnecessary or heretical. The Karaites used to be in the minority, but have garnered great support in Bukhara and the west. As the eastern steppes are under assault by pagan conquerors, the so-called Rabbinic Jews' influence has been dwindling and the Karaites have become the dominant side of the schism. The remaining Jews of the Empire have been quite isolated from their brethren, but these are still sad news for them as well.

https://i.imgur.com/vr6ZtvQ.jpg?1

This message also prompts Theophanes to finally send some daring envoys to investigate what exactly is going on in the steppes. It turns out that the Mongols he'd heard rumors of are to blame! Nomadic like the Khazars but still quite distinct from them, the mighty horde has been rampaging along the Silk Road. They adhere to a similar Tengri faith as the Khazars did before their conversion. Much mightier than any of the other hordes, they might even reach Greece's sphere of interest one day.

https://i.imgur.com/E0A35q1.jpg?1

Theophanes begins to develop more interest in the east; the Greeks' thoughts and plans have rarely gone much further than Persia. When a large caravan from beyond the Shahdom arrives in Athens, he personally invites its leader to stay at the Imperial Palace.

https://i.imgur.com/4VcdUm4.jpg?1

The merchant's Greek is rather clumsy, but Theophanes realizes that they're speaking of the lands beyond the Indus, where Alexander the Great's conquests abruptly stopped. The Greeks know of the area, of course, but rarely have much direct contact. As they sit down for dinner, Theophanes keeps asking more and more questions – in the simplest words possible, of course.

https://i.imgur.com/GM7AsHf.jpg?1

The merchant is very gracious throughout his visit, and very grateful for Theophanes' surprising hospitality. To pay back the favor, he decides to donate one of his eunuch servants. Though the Basileus obviously has more than enough guards to begin with, he respects the gesture. Besides, if and when this brute learns the language, perhaps he can tell his own tales of the east. It soon turns out that the man is just a Bedouin who's been tossed around from owner to owner, but that just means more stories! Shamir goes on to serve as one of Theophanes' personal assistants for years to come.

https://i.imgur.com/ZOOR1mu.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/MnfdZt0.jpg?1

Queen Laura of Italy asks for the Empire's help against a Parliamentarist revolt. However, she is seen as something of a traitor against the dynasty, willfully tossing away such a rich realm to a Frenchman! She's on her own. Besides, if she can't survive a little rebellion, she's not a worthy ally anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/tWWc6am.jpg?1
[screenshot shows wrong option]

More drama in the House of Skleros follows as Theophanes returns from a diplomatic visit a few days early and stumbles right into Ingrid having an affair with a minor Count he barely even recognizes! For ten years he had denied the implications of Komitas' parentage, but now all that trust comes tumbling down. If she's cheating now, why couldn't she have cheated then, too? This is unacceptable treason towards the Basileus, and thus the realm itself!

https://i.imgur.com/0BtHDJ1.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/W83xoHs.jpg?1

Following the precedent set by his father, Theophanes has no choice but to arrange a divorce and send Ingrid back to Denmark, as sad as it makes him.

https://i.imgur.com/1Mhk4Bb.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/wZXZBC0.jpg?1

He also sends the Phalanx to fetch this Euphemios, but the lecher gets warned and is nowhere to be found by the time they arrive. Theophanes is convinced that the Count's son Theophanes is hiding him somewhere, but isn't willing to escalate this any further than he has to.

https://i.imgur.com/h432MqY.jpg?1

In August 1226, the whole realm's attention is captured by the call of the Patriarch of Constantinople, who has remained quite silent for a while. He has decided that the United Church's great power must be wielded to push the Muslims out of the Sultanate of Africa. Some question his decision, given that Christendom hasn't really had any presence in the area for over half a millennium, but even more are happy to serve their faith in battle, including Theophanes! O Theos thelei!

https://i.imgur.com/Q5pGBaO.jpg?1

The Sultanate honestly isn't even that powerful, but will surely be joined by other rulers willing to defend their heathen way of life. Especially the Sultanate of Arabia is a likely ally, sharing the same Abbasid dynasty.

https://i.imgur.com/250caoW.jpg?1

Indeed, various lords big and small within the Empire start flocking to the Church's banners, but outside the Empire there's strangely little interest, and the enemy has multiple helpers as well. Despite there having been Papal Crusades before, this one started by the Patriarch has come to be known as the ”First Great Crusade” due to the Pope being a heretic and all his attempts ending in failure. Of course, the fact that most of them were directed at Greece doesn't do them any favors in the Greek-dominated Church's eyes, either.

https://i.imgur.com/9t7S0FF.jpg?1

85 000 brave soldiers gather in Sicily and Malta and prepare to cross the sea onto Muslim soil. Some of the other commanders aren't quite as careful, though, heading straight for Tunis and crashing headfirst into the defending armies.

https://i.imgur.com/MDnAISk.jpg?1

Theophanes declares that he will lead the largest army himself, with Pankratios and Boethios by his side. November marks the beginning of the greatest amphibious assault in Greek history!

https://i.imgur.com/yNIxKx9.jpg?1

Over 1600 galleys hit the shore in and around Tunis almost simultaneously, thousands after thousands of armored men pouring off the ships. The Basileus' division rescues the Patriarch's army while the others start securing a foothold on the coast.

https://i.imgur.com/GkKzf3X.jpg?1

Fighting for God, summoned by the representative of God, is the highest honor any soldier can achieve. It brings great prestige to all involved, including Theophanes and his comrades.

https://i.imgur.com/c1d9Dqa.jpg?1

The Christian tide sweeps further inland, braving the treacherous terrain to drive away the unorganized defenders.

https://i.imgur.com/LTrJDYI.jpg?1

Theophanes' battle is the most dangerous in terms of both terrain and enemy strength, but the Muslims are still outnumbered, especially once he receives reinforcements from the other crusaders.

https://i.imgur.com/U3BB8z2.jpg?1

The Basileus starts to truly master the practical side of command, learning the ropes of supplies and troop movements.

https://i.imgur.com/aW3lKHs.jpg?1

The armies march back to the coast to resupply and lay siege to the area's most important holdings.

https://i.imgur.com/XFB2yaP.jpg?1

An auxiliary African army tries to invade Egypt but is engaged by the valiant Doux of Mosul marching through the area before the Imperial rear guard even has time to arrive.

https://i.imgur.com/Wy0l0SW.jpg?1

The Imperial army shrugs its collective shoulders and heads for Tripolitana, the Sultan's old capital. When a year has passed since Theophanes' landing, the Muslims have yet to organize any counter-attack despite the Sultan's allies probably having plenty of soldiers to spare. Much of the capital region is starting to fall into Christian hands. Outposts are being built and small knightly orders established to maintain hold of the land. The crusaders clearly intend to stay.

https://i.imgur.com/ZDO0vWa.jpg?1

In January 1228, Sultan Husam decides to surrender rather than waste any more of his people's lives in a futile resistance, a move rather unpopular with his more fanatical peers. The First Great Crusade is a magnificent success! A vast amount of Muslim lords are ousted and plenty of the local populace leave with them, but most stay behind in their conquered homes, fearfully wondering what awaits them now. The atmosphere is quite eerie as triumphant armies march through deserted towns, cheering to the heavens and banging their drums even when there's no one to listen. A great wedge both physical and spiritual has been driven right in the middle of the Islamic world.

https://i.imgur.com/8TMxiTU.jpg?1

The Patriarch declares Theophanes the real hero of this war and decrees that the entire conquered area shall be granted to him, as willed by God. While the Basileus is deeply honored, of course, he does have his concerns about the Empire's ability to govern such a large area full of pious infidels, conquered all at once. Besides, wasn't this supposed to be a war for Christ, not for the Empire? Is it acceptable that he take the honor and the gains for it?

https://i.imgur.com/Ybf2gZZ.jpg?1

After pondering the question for a while, Theophanes seeks out Doux Komitas Kaukadenos of Mosul, one of the greatest individual contributors to the Crusade. With a flattering speech about the man's exaggerated heroics, he offers a very lucrative deal: in exchange for abdicating as Doux and passing his lands within the Empire to his youngest son, Komitas and his other sons will be given the Kingdom of Africa to rule as a sovereign realm! Ruling a hostile land with nary a Christian in sight is a very risky assignment, of course, but what wouldn't we do for power and glory?

The offer is enthusiastically accepted, of course!

https://i.imgur.com/brSVsrK.jpg?1

The new Kingdom and its capital are christened Carthage as a callback to the last time Europeans fought over this land a very long time ago. Theophanes finds it important to highlight the beginning of a new era for the realm. The first true crusader state has been born, and with it, the first Crusader King!

https://i.imgur.com/EgPezhO.jpg?1

While this is a great step for Christendom, the Greeks can't rest on their laurels. Carthage is large and glorious but still weak, having neither an established power structure nor a loyal populace. It will be a while before it can outfit any sort of army to defend itself from rebellion, let alone the inevitable attempts at reconquest. At least the Muslim nobility's banishment should make resistance less organized, but it is still a threat. The Hellenic Empire will have to protect the realm, much like it did with Italy.

For Theophanes, 41, life should still have plenty to offer.

https://i.imgur.com/EKHbyMt.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/tNX6BgJ.jpg?1
The Hellenic Empire hasn't expanded that much, and most of its lords have been more busy quarreling with each other, but the Exarch of Egypt was successful in conquering more of the Red Sea coastline, rich with trade from the Silk Road.

https://i.imgur.com/laiPmlt.jpg?1

The lands south of the Empire are split between the Sultanates of Arabia and Abyssinia. The Ethiopian Emir of Afar managed to conquer the stalwart Nubians and declare himself the ruler of this large realm, which might prove a nuisance during crusades. (RIP Makuria, please avenge them Corvus)

https://i.imgur.com/ejMU813.jpg?1

East of Carthage, Africa is still dominated by Islamic states. The Yusufids still dub themselves Caliphs, and across the desert the rich Sultanate of Mali gathers its strength.

https://i.imgur.com/N45YN4m.jpg?1

France, Burgundy and León are still locked in something of a stalemate with each other, but have recently united their strength to successfully fend off an Andalusian Jihad. By grabbing the last piece of Aquitaine, Burgundy has managed to finally connect its separated holdings over land. No longer will men and wares have to choose between passing through foreign territory or sailing around all of Iberia just to reach the capital.

https://i.imgur.com/PYvzmIn.jpg?1

The Mongol Empire has managed to conquer some scattered lands quite far west, even acquiring some land right on the Black Sea coast, but has been slowed down by... financial problems, which sounds quite silly for an ”unstoppable horde”. The shattered Khanate of Khazaria has managed to exploit the chaos and reunite some of its lost lands, but is likely to get flattened sometime soon.

https://i.imgur.com/uZfGCem.jpg?1
I managed to recreate the Ecumenical Patriarchate, woot! Creating it renamed me to ”Manuel”, though, so I had to make another edit to fix that after I handed the title to its proper owner.

This here is something I'll probably do after every Crusade or other big war. Crusader states are way more interesting than huge blobs, and I kinda like our borders anyway. The most I might do is conquer Iraq, just to have a port in the Persian Gulf, probably relevant in EU4.

It seems I'm probably not going to waste three years of every chapter fighting the Persians, sorry. As cool as the concept is, the tributary relationship is extremely unstable, and I have no practical need for the money either.

[Flickerdart]

Since Italy worked out, I say you destroy Persia instead - conquer it, destroy every title, and release each Count as an independent ruler.

[Corvus]

Makuria will be avenged, don't worry :)

[Eldan]

Carthage. Nice. Did you choose that name, or was that a nation that actually potentially existed?

[SilverLeaf167]

Since Italy worked out, I say you destroy Persia instead - conquer it, destroy every title, and release each Count as an independent ruler.

It seems you have truly tired of assassinating mere men and now lust for the blood of nations.


Carthage. Nice. Did you choose that name, or was that a nation that actually potentially existed?

It's just a renamed + recolored Africa with a modded flag. Felt vaguely fitting for a crusader state, definitely better than the original.

[Flickerdart]

It seems you have truly tired of assassinating mere men and now lust for the blood of nations.
I'm still petitioning Paradox to release a Lords of Atlantis alternate history expansion that adds the ability to sink continents.

[Eldan]

That would be sweet. But I have Alpha Centauri for that.

[OrcusMcP]

I think it's time to venture REALLY far and convert some heathens. Send out some missionaries, and after the inevitable imprisonment, invade them and show them what "turn the other cheek" REALLY means. :smallamused:

[Cristo Meyers]

Has there been a Basilieus yet that didn't have a wife cheat on him and bear a bastard? I'm going over it in my head and the only conclusion I can come to is that 'seducing the Empress' is some kind of national sport in the Hellenic Empire...

[IthilanorStPete]

Has there been a Basilieus yet that didn't have a wife cheat on him and bear a bastard? I'm going over it in my head and the only conclusion I can come to is that 'seducing the Empress' is some kind of national sport in the Hellenic Empire...

It seems to be a really common thing in general, even with nerfs to the Seduction focus. I had it happen all the time in a recent ERE game.

[SilverLeaf167]

I think it's time to venture REALLY far and convert some heathens. Send out some missionaries, and after the inevitable imprisonment, invade them and show them what "turn the other cheek" REALLY means. :smallamused:

Thing is, you can only do that to pagans, right? I kind of like the implications of our Suomenusko Russia surviving through history. :smalltongue:


Has there been a Basilieus yet that didn't have a wife cheat on him and bear a bastard? I'm going over it in my head and the only conclusion I can come to is that 'seducing the Empress' is some kind of national sport in the Hellenic Empire...

I feel like it's about 60/40 or thereabouts, but we've had a few in a row now. But hey, she's the wife of the mightiest man in the known world, that's gonna attract plenty of foolhardy future eunuchs.

On a completely unrelated note, I finally learned how to give unique units to other nations in EU4! :smallbiggrin: At this point about the only big thing I can't do is map overhauls, if I do say so myself. I'm kinda wondering what to pick for the Empire, however; the Byzantine units are all bright red and strongly Ottoman-influenced. The Free Cities (https://forum.paradoxplaza.com/forum/index.php?threads/euiv-common-sense-content-pack-renders.860473/) look surprisingly nice, and have dynamic colors...
(And yes, I spend a completely disproportionate amount of time modding EU4 in preparation for this, and I think I'm kinda addicted. There's just so much to do for a world with a mended schism, no HRE, Muslims in Iberia etc. Of course, I do my best to avoid going through a lot of trouble for things that can still change radically during CK2.)

[OrcusMcP]

On a completely unrelated note, I finally learned how to give unique units to other nations in EU4! :smallbiggrin: At this point about the only big thing I can't do is map overhauls, if I do say so myself. I'm kinda wondering what to pick for the Empire, however; the Byzantine units are all bright red and strongly Ottoman-influenced. The Free Cities (https://forum.paradoxplaza.com/forum/index.php?threads/euiv-common-sense-content-pack-renders.860473/) look surprisingly nice...
(And yes, I spend a completely disproportionate amount of time modding EU4 in preparation for this, and I think I'm kinda addicted. There's just so much to do for a world with a mended schism, no HRE, Muslims in Iberia etc. Of course, I do my best to avoid going through a lot of trouble for things that can still change radically during CK2.)

This will be good to know if I need help converting SMftGoR. :smallwink:

[SilverLeaf167]

Hey, I'll be glad to offer help if you need it, but given how much of my time this is eating up, I'm not going to do it for you. :smallamused:

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #19: The Diligent Dilettante (1228-1241)

With the success of the First Great Crusade and the birth of the fledgling Kingdom of Carthage, Theophanes II is once again quite confident in his ability to lead.

https://i.imgur.com/YVNUDQ4.jpg?2

To celebrate his great feats, he declares another grand tournament.

This particular tourney is an unusually bloody one, three contestants dying in the ring. Two of those accidents can be attributed to Sergios, a Marshal from Syria with an unnecessarily aggressive approach to show fighting. Despite the controversy, he has fought his way to first place.

https://i.imgur.com/fW9gssu.jpg?1

Second place is taken by Raphail Skleros, another Marshal from Armeniacon and an excellent soldier.

https://i.imgur.com/I9WvvwZ.jpg?1

The third place goes to the Basileus himself, emboldened by his military success. It's the highest rank a reigning ruler has reached in the tourney, though many suspect his opponents didn't really go all out. Either way, even third place in a competition of hundreds isn't quite enough for the ambitious Theophanes.

https://i.imgur.com/JUZO7Qp.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/R4u3F5f.jpg?1

He decides to seek out more of said success, declaring war on Arabia over a strip of territory between Jerusalem and Damascus. They've stubbornly held on to this little piece of sand, disrupting traffic and frustrating cartographers.

https://i.imgur.com/F3xyxIL.jpg?1

An enemy army dances around the border, afraid to attack the Hellenic forces due to the amount of nearby reinforcements. Theophanes eventually decides to take the initiative himself, and though the Muslims have their own backup on the way, they turn back upon hearing that the battle has turned sour. The battle is predictably a victory for the Empire.

https://i.imgur.com/NCB3Xmo.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/xjWu2ZZ.jpg?1

While he's busy with that, word arrives of a revolt against Carthaginian rule, surely only the first of many. Though King Komitas has done an admirable job building up his strength, he's nowhere near capable of handling a peasant army of this magnitude. All available troops from Sicily and Greece are sent over to help.

https://i.imgur.com/Q3Hu7jm.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/DU5jxzW.jpg?1

In completely different news, Prince Komitas – probably a bastard but officially legitimate – has gotten married to Princess Charlotte of Burgundy, heir to the Kingdom in absence of any brothers. Burgundy should make an appropriate replacement for Italy, assuming everything goes as expected and the King dies in good time.

https://i.imgur.com/c0jQxuP.jpg?1

Carthage ends up defeating the numerically superiors rebels all by itself, making good use of superior leadership and advantageous terrain. Perhaps they won't be as dependent as expected.

https://i.imgur.com/2ArWVdN.jpg?1

In the east, an ill-advised assault against the Arabs almost turns into a rout, only to be rescued by reinforcements arriving in the nick of time.

https://i.imgur.com/c3reS4z.jpg?1

The remnants of the enemy force are wiped out in a daring pursuit, yet they still refuse to give up their rights to that worthless patch of dirt.

https://i.imgur.com/aDlX1dg.jpg?1

In the south, the Coptic branches of Christianity used to be dominated by the Monophysite faith endorsed by the Kingdom of Nubia. However, with the rise of the Sunni Kingdom of Abyssinia this influence has disappeared and the Miaphysite Church has reemerged as the more popular one among the oppressed populace.

https://i.imgur.com/AJHFLbz.jpg?1

After almost three years of war, the young Sultan finally hands over the little strip. Quite a lot of fuss over what was practically a matter of aesthetics...

https://i.imgur.com/EyPS8gx.jpg?1

With it, however, the entirety of the area traditionally known as Syria is back under Imperial control. It is a triumphant step for the somewhat forgotten Imperial Reclamation.

https://i.imgur.com/lEUxCYc.jpg?1

The gloriously rich Crown takes every opportunity to celebrate its successes and add to its prestige, organizing a splendid parade through the streets of Athens.

https://i.imgur.com/FIYDGys.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/0gQaFBb.jpg?1

Soon after returning to Athens, however, Theophanes accidentally witnesses something man was not meant to know: a man knowing another man!

...In the Biblical sense.

https://i.imgur.com/rMIgsze.jpg?1

It turns out young Prince Komitas has turned out a bit like his uncle Boethios, perhaps from his corrupting influence. However, as disturbed as Theophanes may be, he cannot risk his son's critical marriage to the Burgundians, and agrees to... keep the whole thing under covers. There will be no penetrating his deception. The Prince is absolutely gay with relief.

https://i.imgur.com/ZWZwfqG.jpg?1

The ridiculous feud between the Empire's vassals, fighting over the single County of Strymon, has lasted over five years, cost thousands of lives and involved forty-something lords and their armies. It is tragically enough not an isolated case; the various Doukes spend a disproportionate amount of time fighting each other instead of the heathens. To finally stop this unnecessary bloodshed, the Basileus has decided to reaffirm the loosened Imperial Laws to ban warfare between vassal lords, among other less urgent things. He's not the only one tired of it, receiving plenty of support for his suggestion.

https://i.imgur.com/1rHH3LL.jpg?1

These foolish fighters, though, insist on at least finishing what they started.

https://i.imgur.com/z9oji9E.jpg?1

Having gathered its strength, Carthage declares a small crusade for Cyrenaica. It's less ambitious than it sounds, though, since they've only actually targeted the rebellious area of Benghazi at the tip of the cape. It does still put them in conflict with the Yusufid Caliphate, though, and perhaps some other Sunni. The Empire will help if things turn sour. The war ends up ending inconclusively due to the County being reclaimed by the Yusufids.

https://i.imgur.com/gB5yKea.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Vppj3CH.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/7zKi2K2.jpg?1
[In case someone has managed to miss it until now, I thought I'd mention that the helmet icon with ”15.66K” next to it shows the number of soldiers a character has]

Theophanes is more concerned by the alleged plot to assassinate his heir Pankratios. It is strange how these vaguely threatening rumors always manage to reach the court without providing any actual information whatsoever... Nothing ever comes out of them, fortunately.

https://i.imgur.com/gyY4xGt.jpg?1

The other son has more pleasant news to bring, though! The King of Burgundy has died quite young, passing the throne to Charlotte. Assuming Komitas manages to put his misgivings aside and sire a son, the next King will hopefully be a Skleros.

https://i.imgur.com/tnegvXo.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Ig2YUTJ.jpg?1

A few months later, Charlotte calls for Theophanes' aid against her rebellious vassals. He is happy to help, given that the marriage's whole point was to secure Skleros power in the region.

https://i.imgur.com/wC7HiUy.jpg?1

The serpentine realm has been quite messily split into rebellious and loyal territories. Hellenic troops land in Rosello and prepare to fight.

https://i.imgur.com/CCRqcIv.jpg?1

Sensing their impending doom or perhaps hearing the perfectly synchronized marching from leagues away, the rebels try to retreat to the north, but Theophanes' superior maneuvering allows him to catch them and inflict devastating losses.

https://i.imgur.com/VrrK51Z.jpg?1

After chasing down the stragglers, the armies spread out to help Charlotte lay siege to the most important rebel holdings. The war is eventually decided in the Queen's favor.

https://i.imgur.com/B2dnz7I.jpg?1

The troops return home. Some months later the Queen declares war on Bavaria to reclaim Burgundy's traditional heartland (which the actual Kingdom has never held), but Theophanes has something else to worry about.

https://i.imgur.com/0TjpdUY.jpg?1

The anticipated Jihad has finally been called to reclaim Afr- *cough* Carthage and undo the crusade. Theophanes immediately declares that the Empire will stand on King Komitas' side!

https://i.imgur.com/dVxnnZK.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/SDzR9Kb.jpg?1

The Caliphate's splintered nature immediately turns the war into a two-fronted one. While one Hellenic division heads to defend Carthage itself, the second lands in Cyrenaica and the third arrives in Egypt. Leading the second army in a daring amphibious assault, it becomes clear that Theophanes has gained an excellent grasp on the workings of heavy infantry, the backbone of the Hellenic military.

https://i.imgur.com/QH06cjP.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/HmKE0J3.jpg?1

Upon finding out about Prince Komitas' sexual preferences, Queen Charlotte immediately arranges a divorce and sends him packing. She is furious about being thus deceived, but Theophanes takes a break from warring to successfully convince her that the Skleroi didn't have any idea about the skeletons in Komitas'... closet. While she refuses to take him back, she does settle for Theophanes' youngest son Konstantinos as a replacement.

https://i.imgur.com/BI3e1bN.jpg?1

The greatly disappointed and ashamed Komitas asks for Theophanes' permission to forsake matrimony, take a vow of chastity and join the Brotherhood. Theophanes is slightly suspect of his motivations for shipping off to join a bunch of other repressed men in a sweaty castle, but can't exactly deny such a humble request.

https://i.imgur.com/sXebtkQ.jpg?1

While the eastern front is being taken care of, the western dispatchment decides to cross into enemy territory as well.

https://i.imgur.com/CATo2YZ.jpg?1

There are great victories all over, Theophanes himself managing to take prisoner all three commanders of an enemy army while Boethios and comrades push deeper into Mauretanian territory.

https://i.imgur.com/IH67e1S.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/QBnaQZw.jpg?1

Eventually, after two years of nothing but setbacks, the humiliated Caliph gives up and calls off the Jihad for now. Carthage is safe, at least for a while.

https://i.imgur.com/13EMMEU.jpg?1

There's definitely no peace in the rest of the world, though. Theophanes' nephew, second son of Gerasimos with a Leonese Princess, has decided to go forth and press his claims on Galicia. The Basileus doesn't really approve of his attempts to weaken the Christians of Iberia, but unfortunately doesn't really have a say in the matter. León is capable of holding its own, though, and young Eirenaios dies in the royal dungeons some months later.

https://i.imgur.com/MfcbViz.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/jlA7TpG.jpg?1

The return from glorious crusadin' to domestic arbitratin' is rough and disillusioning as ever. The almost 52-year-old Theophanes is all too aware of his age and anxious to achieve more before his inevitable demise. He's often been compared to Kaisarios II, who unified and liberated Greece, but there's simply nothing he could do that would compare to such a legendary feat! Should he just strive for as many smaller accomplishments as possible? Or perhaps it'd be better if he stopped comparing himself to semi-mythical rulers from centuries ago?

https://i.imgur.com/aSCxbtD.jpg?1

He decides to just go about it one thing at a time. By conquering the Baleares, a small group of islands near Catalonia, he can extend Hellenic influence over the Western Mediterranean and procure a staging area for future crusades against the Umayyads.

https://i.imgur.com/Q9bmk5v.jpg?1

20 000 men land on the islands of Mayurga and Manurqa while another 40 000 sit in the Gulf, wondering whether and when they should bother assaulting the mainland.

https://i.imgur.com/r7cCufG.jpg?1

After almost 40 years of imprisonment, Theodosios Skleros' ravings finally stop echoing in the dungeons as he takes his last pained breath and lets go of his stubborn, miserable life.

https://i.imgur.com/0MviJ4o.jpg?1

The second landing occurs a few months later, and the Umayyads try to counterattack, but Boethios' unbreakable defense succeeds in holding them off. The invasion force does take a lot of casualties, though.

https://i.imgur.com/y0QJvkn.jpg?1

This bloody defeat and the rather unwinnable situation on the islands convinces the Sultan to just not bother with them anymore.

https://i.imgur.com/ISVUeDi.jpg?1

The islands of Mallorca and Menorca, as they're properly called by their Catalan population, aren't particularly rich or anything, but strategically invaluable as safe harbors in this farthest reach of the sea. Future invasions should be easier to organize from here. The islands also make for quite a pleasant beach resort.

https://i.imgur.com/um4U2Yp.jpg?1

Stopping in Neapolis on his way back to Athens, Theophanes discovers that Gerasimos, the big brother only four years his elder, has peacefully slept away, leaving Sicily to his son Evangelos who served beside him in the First Great Crusade. Theophanes finds something about his brother's death deeply foreboding.

https://i.imgur.com/W5uDKsh.jpg?1

Gerasimos' other son Markos has been left without a proper inheritance, so Theophanes decides to make him Doux of the newly conquered islands, a somewhat isolated but very important position.

https://i.imgur.com/BtkorsG.jpg?1

Though the victory was relatively small, Theophanes continues the entertaining tradition of triumph marches.

https://i.imgur.com/5ZBUXJY.jpg?1

He has started to wax a little philosophical in his older days, though. The old Basileus has come to wonder whether earthly glory is what really defines him. He's turned to theology to look for answers in the scriptures.

https://i.imgur.com/PFRRS6s.jpg?1

In September 1240 he decides to go on a traditional pilgrimage to hopefully clear his mind. Some advise against it, saying he should stay and rule in Athens instead, but he insists on doing it now before it's too late. He doesn't want to go to Jerusalem, though, having visited it tons of times in his life. Constantinople is a little too familiar as well, so he settles on Antioch instead.

https://i.imgur.com/CL2fQzR.jpg?1

With the Empire keeping the roads safe, the trip is almost disappointingly uneventful, but the destination is well worth it. As the mighty Empire's primary port in the Levant, Antioch has grown even richer and more glorious than before, yet its roots and history are still plainly visible.

https://i.imgur.com/a6X6ktQ.jpg?1

Or that's Theophanes' first impression, anyway. As soon as he actually looks beyond the beautiful facade, it's just another trade port full of greedy merchants and thieves profiteering on pilgrims such as him. He is thoroughly disappointed, having hoped to find enlightenment of some sort.

https://i.imgur.com/4Gv2a9r.jpg?1

Of course, that's not what he tells the others. If he wants his life to be the stuff of legends, he has to spread some himself.

https://i.imgur.com/aXCFGdd.jpg?1

The stress of rulership and the hopeless depression do Theophanes' health no favors. He gets ill constantly, until one of those sicknesses finally fells him for good on the 7th of December, 1241. In spite of his concerns, he was a very accomplished and competent Basileus, beloved by all his vassals. In terms of sheer talent, he really may have been the equal of Kaisarios 'the Wise'. It remains to be seen whether lesser men can maintain his gains in Carthage and Burgundy.

https://i.imgur.com/k3f45Wj.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ORSBroj.jpg?1

Long live Pankratios Skleros, Basileus of the Hellenic Empire, King of Greece, Anatolia and Kurdistan, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika and Chalkidike, Sovereign Lord of Egypt, Azerbaijan and the Levant, Protector of Carthage!

https://i.imgur.com/gYQ7N3J.jpg?1
Did I overdo it with Komitas? 'Cuz I think I overdid it with Komitas. :smalltongue: It's not my fault the game gave me such great opportunities!

Oh, and I don't know if it's a bug or not, but apparently female rulers can lead armies these days due to the new commander system (armies can be led by rulers or appointed commanders, apparently without checking for gender). Noticed Charlotte running around with her army.

Theophanes didn't get a single faction revolt in his life! Just when I wanted to try agreeing to one's demands... On the other hand, Pankratios is even more likely to do so.

[Eldan]

So, now you have a somewhat strong Leon and a good staging port, how about the Reconquista?

[SilverLeaf167]

Oh, the AI is gonna drag us into it anyway. :smalltongue:

EDIT: By the way, our quadrachapterly special (Sūpā Jūjigun doesn't count) is coming up again. Ideas/requests?

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #20: The Gentle Giant (1241-1262)

8th of December, 1241

Basileus Pankratios' Norse blood makes him quite an interesting sight in full Imperial regalia, and due to his impressive size, he actually had to have a new crown made to fit on his head. He is still a gentle giant, a kind and virtuous liege respected by his vassals, and though the realities of war have taught him much about the world, even making him overly cautious at times, he can still be a little gullible in personal interactions. He keeps himself occupied and in shape with regular hunting trips.

https://i.imgur.com/jdQSfbr.jpg?1

His wife Thomais was his own choice, a pleasant kinswoman who shares many of his interests.

https://i.imgur.com/0B6D4ld.jpg?1

Their oldest son and heir Theophanes III is a somewhat difficult young man, humble and honest but also quite fickle, quick to anger but even quicker to feebly back down if met with resistance.

https://i.imgur.com/7tB7EQD.jpg?1

Theophanes' betrothed Cothilda, arranged by his grandfather shortly before his death, may not be particularly noteworthy in herself, but she is the Queen of Germany. Assuming the von Liebnitz don't go back on their promise, there will be a very interesting union between these two strong states.

https://i.imgur.com/h1fP1OU.jpg?1

The younger Prince Euphemios mirrors his granduncle Boethios in many ways, though that phrase has somewhat strange implications in many people's ears. The youngest Eudokia is also growing up well.

https://i.imgur.com/YObSpPF.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/AkYFmA9.jpg?1

Only a few days after his coronation, Pankratios is already being called to join Charlotte of Burgundy's continued reconquista against the Umayyads; some consider that term disrespectful in this context, given that it's just a Francian state pushing into rightful Iberian lands, but Christendom is what matters most. Pankratios promises to help. Christmas is celebrated in a rather distracted mood as the troops prepare to ship off. Word arrives that Carthage and León have decided to join the war as well. Andalusia is vastly outmanned, especially as infighting in the Muslim ranks stops other Sultans from helping.

https://i.imgur.com/IXu7jCD.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/YDyVOkT.jpg?1

Carthage, led by Komitas' son, has done an admirable job solidifying its grasp over Africa and is at least as powerful as Burgundy at this point.

https://i.imgur.com/ShFPKwP.jpg?1

The Baleares immediately get to serve their intended purpose as the Hellenic army gathers there to reorganize and plan its landing. The main target, Valencia, lies on the eastern coast of the peninsula. Burgundy and León are starting their own advances and will soon clash with the Muslim defenders near the currently rebellious Sheikhdom of Molina.

https://i.imgur.com/On0D59L.jpg?1

Despite their numbers being equal and the terrain in the enemy's favor, there seems to be no extinguishing the will of true Crusaders! Their victory comes with great losses, though.

https://i.imgur.com/4NtjuGY.jpg?1

Hellenes and Carthaginians make landfall at about the same time, Pankratios' men advancing on both ends of the contested territory while their allies head further inland.

https://i.imgur.com/OJLoV6u.jpg?1

More troops arrive from the Levant and the Christian alliance fans out across the coastline.

https://i.imgur.com/9xCXmVu.jpg?1

Charlotte of Burgundy, having insisted on staying at the front, gets badly wounded in battle and dies a few days later. War is no place for a woman! Luckily, her titles pass to her and Konstantinos' daughter Barbara Skleros. All the Empire needs to do is ensure that Barbara doesn't marry into another family like Queen Laura of Italy did.

https://i.imgur.com/R0yMls4.jpg?1

The Doux of Tabriz and his allies succeed in their independent war against Persia to conquer Tabaristan on the wealthy southern coast of the Caspian Sea.

https://i.imgur.com/RDDRvjH.jpg?1

Prince Theophanes turns 16 in August 1243 and is immediately wed to Cothilda. He has a basic understanding of warfare and diplomacy but is greatly hindered by his moody personality. Pankratios must make sure that the realm is stable enough for his rise to power, when it comes.

https://i.imgur.com/hm8oDwz.jpg?1

Having lost his army and most of Valencia, the Umayyad Sultan soon follows the Shah's example.

https://i.imgur.com/L4kNl7i.jpg?1

A revolt has risen in Burgundy during the war, trying to usurp the reigning toddler, but Pankratios puts a stop to that in a few months.

https://i.imgur.com/OnenY9w.jpg?1

Valencia is now safely in Christian hands, though the Umayyads still control a major port in Tortosa.

https://i.imgur.com/rXOGfac.jpg?1

Pankratios returns home. Euphemios later comes of age, and though he is an excellent combatant, he doesn't really seem to have a clue about actual command. He'd make a fine Brother, were it not for his farsighted betrothal to the young Queen Barbara.

https://i.imgur.com/lhbV0kL.jpg?1

A Prince from the former Sultanate of Africa has gathered an army to press his nonexistent claim on Carthage, which is obviously a completely different state. The Empire will intervene if necessary.

https://i.imgur.com/FT5LRu5.jpg?1

It isn't.

https://i.imgur.com/KJVlj1N.jpg?1

The Jewish faith remains in flux, but it is clear that its influence is dwindling overall.

https://i.imgur.com/o9JzOe2.jpg?1

Several years pass in peace. Pankratios may be a commander, but he has no lust for unnecessary bloodshed. That isn't to say he doesn't still like hunting, of course, and King Evangelos of Sicily decides to send him a little present to support this hobby of his.

https://i.imgur.com/63T09Qk.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/n8i5cAB.jpg?1

Queen Cothilda decides to break the silence in 1248 by calling him to war against France. While Pankratios sends back his nominal support, he has no intention of sending his men across Europe to fight over some silly border province.

https://i.imgur.com/b0U1kK2.jpg?1

He is more concerned about the recovered Umayyads' attempt to get revenge by conquering all of León.

https://i.imgur.com/cnXH05r.jpg?1

Even as Pankratios is packing up to sail west again, some courtiers insist on pestering him about the legendary White Stag, knowing of his interest in hunting. He's awfully busy, though, and haven't these rumors been around for centuries by now? Either the animal is dead already or there's a whole lineage of them, in which case they really aren't that special anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/gVDwJBH.jpg?1

King Enrique IV of León manages to waste almost all of his men in an overzealous advance into enemy territory.

https://i.imgur.com/brooDyI.jpg?1

On the other hand, the Umayyads soon make the same mistake themselves.

https://i.imgur.com/Gpy9Otb.jpg?1

From there on it's mostly siege warfare. With Burgundy's help the remaining Leonese win some small battles while the Empire focuses on the coasts again. After less than two years of war, the humiliated Muslims decide to make peace and return to status quo.

https://i.imgur.com/tQ6MmPX.jpg?1

Now that the war is over, Pankratios has time for his hobby once again. As those old rumors about the White Stag reach his ears again, he decides to investigate rather than just sit around.

https://i.imgur.com/2ZM7iVq.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/UdXifsZ.jpg?1

It doesn't bear much fruit, but he doesn't mind too much either.

https://i.imgur.com/BTV9IIf.jpg?1

Basilissa Thomais, now a sickly and infirm old woman, coughs herself to death in 1252. Pankratios opts not to remarry some young girl to ”replace” his dear wife.

https://i.imgur.com/KsST8uX.jpg?1

The White Stag seems to migrate eastward, so the grieving Pankratios decides to follow, but to no avail.

https://i.imgur.com/mPKO0iZ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/8CRGKIk.jpg?1

After going back and forth for five and a half years, Queen Cothilda's petty war ends in her defeat and no change to the status quo.

https://i.imgur.com/iBtYlql.jpg?1

The Kingdom of Carthage is inherited by a young boy, whom another member of the dynasty deems unworthy to lead a real crusader state. While weakening the realm through infighting is certainly a bad thing, Pankratios feels neither justified nor interested in interfering in family matters.

https://i.imgur.com/wuRwkRb.jpg?1

Just a few months later on the 18th of August 1253, there is great drama in the House of Skleros as well: Prince Theophanes has been murdered in cold blood! Even worse, the one who arranged the assassination has been revealed to be Isidoros Skleros, Marshal and heir of Armeniacon. Whatever intrigue this may be part of, the furious Pankratios is having none of it!

https://i.imgur.com/zmGK00a.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/XvgfnOf.jpg?1

He immediately declares his intention to challenge the dishonorable kinslayer to a honorable duel!

https://i.imgur.com/bsWcR8C.jpg?1

The great battle is fought in the middle of the massive throne room, sunlight filtering through the stained glass windows onto their shining platemail as a crowd of dozens gathers around to watch the macabre dance. After reading out the full list of Isidoros' deeds and evidence thereof, Pankratios sentences him to death. The Basileus picks up the ornate greatsword hanging above his throne, thought to be a mere decoration due to its sheer size. Closing his helmet, the titanic warrior steps forth. Isidoros' audible gulp can practically be heard echoing throughout the hall.

Isidoros does put up a surprisingly good and long fight, managing to parry many ruthless blows from a blade as tall as himself. While he grunts with pain and fatigue, his opponent remains eerily silent in his fury. However, it doesn't take long until the scraping of sword against sword is replaced with blows glancing off Isidoros' armor. Noticing the Marshal's exhaustion, Pankratios swings his blade in a wide arc and cleanly chops off Isidoros' raised arm at the elbow, effortlessly slicing through the steel armor.

The shocked Isidoros, screaming in agony and horror, is twitching on the ground. Pankratios raises his weapon and holds it there for many tense seconds before quietly walking back to his throne and putting the greatsword back on its rack. He takes off his helmet to declare that even though Isidoros has committed one of the greatest crimes imaginable by murdering the future Basileus, he will not sink to the same level and become a kinslayer himself.

https://i.imgur.com/PRiG3ZC.jpg?1

That doesn't save the Marshal from the Blasphemer's Block, of course. His execution is actually the most theatrical to this day. Pankratios' terrifying display of Imperial wrath was definitely impressive, but it does seem to have dented his reputation of infallible patience.

https://i.imgur.com/X8wtkhu.jpg?1

Prince Theophanes is given a spectacular funeral in Athens, the procession passing through every street large enough to accommodate it. Luckily, he and Cothilda had time to sire children. The 7-year-old Pankratios II is heir to both the Hellenic Empire and the Kingdom of Germany, probably making him the single most important child in the world. The Basileus vows to guard the boy with his life.

https://i.imgur.com/wORRYmF.jpg?1

Indeed, despite looking almost monstrous at the duel, he has managed to cultivate a (rather justified) image as a righteous warrior, protector of the weak.

https://i.imgur.com/D5uB95r.jpg?1

He'll have to do some work to maintain that reputation, since the dastardly Umayyads are once again threatening the lands of Christendom. He's honestly getting a little tired of the Iberian landscape.

https://i.imgur.com/fZwxm0Q.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/AdOsgZw.jpg?1

While the war is getting started right next door, there is a great coup in the Yusufid Caliphate. They have been defeated by the Takfarinasid dynasty and evicted from most of Mauretania. Faruk Yusufid still holds those puny lands in Egypt and Cyrenaica and claims the title of Caliph, but nobody takes him seriously at this point. The Caliphate had been a mere shadow of its former glory for a good while now.

https://i.imgur.com/EwUtj5f.jpg?1

It doesn't really matter for the Hellenic war effort: following standard procedure, one army lands in the contested area of Orania and two on the Andalusian coast. One group explores new frontiers by besieging the Umayyads' fortified port in Mauretanian territory (Fort-port? Port-fort? Pfort?).

https://i.imgur.com/U8CbifK.jpg?1

That latter-most expedition is soon attacked by a numerically superior force, but it's nowhere near enough to dislodge the Empire's foremost masters of defense, including the famous Boethios 'the Lionheart' and Grandmaster Bosporios of the Brotherhood, both of them veterans of the Great Crusade. These old men still have what it takes! The overconfident Muslims crash right into their lap, quickly getting outflanked, trapped and wiped out to the last man.

https://i.imgur.com/U818Ibm.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/u8jJSlE.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/mc3HRu7.jpg?1

After such a devastating loss, their surrender is only a matter of time.

https://i.imgur.com/Ba0nGYS.jpg?1

The newly-adult Queen of Burgundy (wed to Prince Euphemios as planned) styles herself the Queen of Aquitaine, ostensibly giving her the right to declare war on León over some of their holdings in the area. It doesn't go very well for her, though. Pankratios can only sigh and return to his duties.

https://i.imgur.com/n0Zs9Uj.jpg?1

However, the 50-year-old Basileus' legendary strength seems to be leaving him all of a sudden. He requires a cane to move around the palace and is definitely in no shape to lead any more armies. He seems to still have hold of his senses – for now – but the contrast to his old self is very striking.

https://i.imgur.com/hgMq6jo.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/45z1XGY.jpg?1

To reduce the workload on his shoulders, the Exarchate of Syria is created and given to the Doux of Tripoli to govern in his stead.

https://i.imgur.com/5BjoW0g.jpg?1

The long civil war in Carthage finally ends in young Theophilos' abdication from the royal throne.

https://i.imgur.com/CjqjVE3.jpg?1

The ever-tenacious Umayyads have had a change of leadership, and the new Sultan wants to exploit Burgundy's ill-advised war to reclaim the territory his father lost. Pankratios' commanders ask for his permission to offer their aid, but the increasingly-demented (and sleepy) Basileus refuses, ranting unintelligibly about bloodshed, greatswords and flailing arms. Though the men know he is out of his mind, they are unable to defy their high liege's direct orders.

https://i.imgur.com/oeuCZKe.jpg?1

He does give grunted permission to join the Second Great Crusade for Croatia, though, called in early 1258. That ”Great” in the name is only a continuation of the earlier naming scheme, since a war against some of the last few Catholics in the world is hardly great, in terms of scale at least. It does mark a milestone for the United Church, though.

https://i.imgur.com/xUIDzCH.jpg?1

The stubbornly heretical Knights Hospitaller have only been allowed to hold Croatia for this long due to sheer negligence. None of the surrounding realms have been particularly interested in their land, and they haven't posed a threat either, preferring to stay quiet and maintain their traditions, including a strange, nominal continuation of the Papacy consisting of high-ranked Knights. It is unknown why the Patriarch of Constantinople suddenly decided to target them – perhaps the latest Pope made too much noise – but everyone agrees it was about time.

https://i.imgur.com/anNC9Al.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/4YChSCe.jpg?1

Much like last time, there's practically no interest outside the Empire, but help isn't really needed anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/UysZDLE.jpg?1

On the Dalmatian coast, a great battle follows between the forces of the True Church and the False. The True is victorious, obviously, probably due in part to its numerical advantage, but the Knights do fight back quite admirably. Pankratios himself sits this one out, of course.

https://i.imgur.com/Ha0d5j1.jpg?1

The Greeks can only shake their heads and focus on besieging Croatia as news arrive of Burgundy's defeat.

https://i.imgur.com/tQftPrX.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/W7L73Bv.jpg?1

It appears that the Knights won't go down easy: they've managed to hoard massive amounts of wealth over all these years, and there are unfortunately plenty of mercenaries willing to serve even such heretics for the right price. Not enough to defeat the Empire, but enough to confuse its commanders for a moment.

https://i.imgur.com/bXUw0nU.jpg?1

With the Knights and their immoral lackeys finally ousted, the Crusade is declared a success!

https://i.imgur.com/QBXYFZq.jpg?1

The commanders agree among themselves that the Kingdom should be given to Kisa, a long-time loyal servant and talented general without titles of his own who has performed admirably in many wars. With what could be interpreted as permission from the Basileus they also offer him the chance to break off from the Empire and rule as sovereign, but he insists on continuing to serve the Skleroi as he has done until now. To maintain the peace (and in exchange for a hefty sack of Imperial gold) the King of Italy agrees to relinquish the County of Zachlumia splitting Croatia in two.

https://i.imgur.com/9Olrf6I.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/PUKBgeI.jpg?1

Pankratios' health continues its steady decline. In a couple of years it gets to the point that he can barely even move or register his surroundings anymore. It is a very awkward and painful situation for the whole court.

https://i.imgur.com/fDUVkdj.jpg?1

The Exarch of Egypt is appointed as his regent.

https://i.imgur.com/hUHfYQX.jpg?1

On the 10th of August 1262, shortly before the all-important 16th birthday of his heir, Pankratios 'the Great' takes his last breath while lying comatose in bed. Even if his practical achievements were quite few, and his conquest of Valencia was in fact wholly undone, he is remembered as a virtuous and honorable ruler. The way he fought for his faith is greatly respected, and his duel with Isidoros is the stuff of legends. It is a shame that his last years turned out like this.

https://i.imgur.com/N5Lkrpx.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ct2gSEB.jpg?1

Long live Pankratios Skleros, second of his name, Kaiser (pfft) of the Hellenic Reich (yeah no), King of Greece, Anatolia and Kurdistan, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika and Chalkidike, Sovereign Lord of Egypt, Azerbaijan and the Levant, Protector of Carthage!

https://i.imgur.com/WkjzT0h.jpg?1
So, today I learned you can't grant independence to lords within your de jure territory. I guess Croatia is staying for now, but I'll get rid of them the first chance I get...

Why am I no longer getting factions? Is it because I'm too strong, or too likeable? Too Strong, or too Kind? :smalltongue: By the way, interesting that both of my ”True Christian Knights” became comatose/infirm soon after receiving the title, the only characters to do so at all.

We'll have to see what to do with Germany when the Queen dies, but it was an interesting and well-timed opportunity I couldn't miss.


EDIT: By the way, our quadrachapterly special (Sūpā Jūjigun doesn't count) is coming up again. Ideas/requests?

[Eldan]

Well, since you might inherit it soon, how about something on the state of Germany?

[Corvus]

Is the gold-for-land deal done via console commands? I've seen people mention doing things like that in other aars but never seen an option for it.

[SilverLeaf167]

Well, since you might inherit it soon, how about something on the state of Germany?

Something related to Germany or at least our Kaiser is possible, but I'm not sure how much I really have to say about the country itself. We'll take a closer look at the territory when we get it.


Is the gold-for-land deal done via console commands? I've seen people mention doing things like that in other aars but never seen an option for it.

Yeah, it is, and I agree with the general sentiment that it's historically accurate and would help with silly bordergore if added to the game. On the other hand, the AI probably couldn't handle it... EU4 allows you to sell territory but not buy any, for that very reason. Even selling is only possible with good reasons (they have a core, it's their culture, it's adjacent, etc.)

[Corvus]

Ah, cool, thanks for that. I was wondering how to get some vassals to do some land swaps - they've got land in each others de jure holdings and it looks messy. Short of simply stripping the titles and reassigning I didn't know a way, and I didn't want to do that for the nasty hit to popularity.

[SilverLeaf167]

SPECIAL #6: The Unbearable Lightness of Ruling (1262)

https://i.imgur.com/WkjzT0h.jpg?1

”Eines Tages wirst du Kaiser sein!”

That's what the proud Cothilda told Pankratios II almost every day. It was a simple phrase, just something to reassure her son and herself, but it carried a lot more weight. It wasn't just ”You're going to do fine!” or ”We're all going to be so proud of you!”

”You're going to be the most powerful man on Earth, you're going to rule over millions, you're going to have men live or die at your command, you're going to step into the boots of legends much better than you in every way!”

Sounds more like a warning.
That's not to say Pankratios, or Pankraz as his mother called him, didn't await his reign with great enthusiasm. It just seemed to come so suddenly.

The young man had been born and raised in Nassau, Germany, son of the Queen of Germany, surrounded by nothing but more and more Germans. Only his father Theo and a few other retainers anchored him to Greece, which he was somehow supposed to see as his true homeland. Theo spent a lot of time grooming him to rule, and he did learn the language fluently, though all the customs and vast histories of this near-mythical land continued to confuse him well into his adolescence. They'd both expected to have more time.

Pankratios had no memory of the day he'd heard of his father's death. None whatsoever. He was only eight at time, but he'd later been told – repeatedly, for he kept insisting – that the man who'd come to visit under the guise of Hellenic ambassador had stabbed him to death while they were alone in the lobby and disappeared like a shadow. It was a period of grief for the whole nation, but Pankratios didn't really understand what was going on. Cothilda was utterly obsessed with the incident for many weeks to come, only calming down when a wooden box was sent to her by the Hellenic Basileus, another practically mythical figure. She took one look, smiled contently and hid the box forever. Pankratios wasn't certain of its contents, but he could hazard a pretty good guess later in life. The whole tragedy was another cautionary example of what it was truly like to be ”Kaiser”, or even a future one. Security around the palace was tightened greatly for years to come, including the addition of a whole company of guards from the Phalanx of the Parthenon.

He'd always been a good boy with a strong moral compass. As his remarkable 16th birthday and official passage into adulthood approached, the mood in Nassau grew wistful. He received more and more compliments from people wishing he'd stay and rule in Germany instead. Cothilda was the most terrified of all, barely 30 years old herself, far too young to send her beloved son overseas. Pankratios didn't know at the time that his acclaimed grandfather had died just recently. Everyone knew this day was to come, but the unplanned skipping of a generation had sped things up a little too much.

After the celebrations, the Phalanx explained the situation to him in plain terms and gave him three days before they'd all leave for Athens. Pankratios took the time to spend time with and say goodbye to his all-too-distant siblings, but Cothilda was the most sullen of all. Pankratios wouldn't have time for courtesy calls, and neither would she. The best they could do was send letters regularly.

The escorted carriage ride was Pankratios' first time leaving Germany, and for all he knew, his last time within its borders. From his parents he'd gotten personal experiences of rule, but the Kingdom of Germany was very different from the Hellenic Empire. It wasn't a multicultural state on three continents, for one, and neither was it the highest guardian of the Christian faith. All realms had certain things in common, of course, but if the Empire had a dozen times as many people willing to serve him, it also had just as many waiting to stab him in the back. Like they'd done to his father.

The young sovereign's trip took him through the German countryside and many great cities such as Frankfurt and Ulm. Everywhere he went, he attracted a lot of attention. It was unclear if this had been actually planned, but the magnificence of his carriage and the amount of guards had made the convoy look more like a parade. They visited the King of Bavaria in Münich; many saw it as a bad idea, given the Karlings' relationship with Germany, but they were courteous if a little cold. The King of Italy gave them much better treatment, being part Skleros himself, and wished for warm relations in the future as well.

The first time Pankratios set foot on Hellenic soil was when he got off the boat in Venetia. The Queen of the Adriatic was already larger and more glamorous than any city he'd seen before, full of exotic sights and smells and visitors from everywhere in the world, yet it was just a pit stop. After staying the night in the Holy Brothers' splendid castle, they hopped onto another ship much larger than the last one and went on their merry way. The winds took them to visit Croatia and Sicily as well, but the staunch commander of the Phalanx insisted that they make haste for the capital already.

Pankratios' first contact with the Athenian metropolis was a shock in itself. When he finally arrived in the port of Piraeus, where the Basilica of St. Kaisarios dominated the skyline, there was a crowd of hundreds, if not thousands, cheering for him. The Phalanx rough-handedly cleared a way for him, and he was too awed to do anything but walk forward and stare at the happy faces like an idiot. The way to the Imperial Palace was longer than he'd expected, yet they never seemed to leave Piraeus; though the guards told him it was indeed a separate city, to Pankratios it seemed like all of Attica was covered by one sprawling web of streets and buildings, full of life and wealth.

As the convoy finally stopped in front of the Imperial Palace, its marble towers reaching so high Pankratios wasn't sure if he could even see the top, it finally struck him: he wasn't the first one to go through these same experiences, and he certainly wouldn't be the last one, as long as there were still people on Earth and those with power over them. Nobody ever understood what they were getting into. Some just adapted better than others.

With a silly grin, Pankratios asked the captain of his escort something he felt stupid for almost immediately:
”So, I will finally be the Kaiser now?”

The soldier glanced back at him:
”No, my liege, you will be the Basileus. Remember that well.”



Greek Πανκρατιος (Pankratios), derived from παν (pan) "all" and κρατος (kratos) "power".
Again, I have no idea how much people actually care about this sort of character study/random rambling/world-building, but it sure gives me fuel for future writing. Next we'll have to see how little Pan actually does. :smallwink: I have no idea either...

I feel like I tend to lean towards exaggerating the Empire's splendor... while it's entertaining to me, maybe the next special should be more down-to-earth, showing the rough underside instead? Hmm...

[Sallera]

Well, the wealth and splendour certainly makes sense for the Athenian heartland. (You did a lot of additional development there, right? And all those public works(/vanity) projects are a good use of tax money.) One would expect things to fade somewhat the further one gets from the seat of power, though, especially since the hand of central authority has had a somewhat inconstant grip over the centuries (and there's been a fair bit of civil war).

[Flickerdart]

Yeah, it is, and I agree with the general sentiment that it's historically accurate and would help with silly bordergore if added to the game. On the other hand, the AI probably couldn't handle it... EU4 allows you to sell territory but not buy any, for that very reason. Even selling is only possible with good reasons (they have a core, it's their culture, it's adjacent, etc.)
I wish CKII would have a feature for granting land to people not in my court. Frequently I've conquered a region I wish to grant to an ally (who hasn't got a claim on it), but I can't, and they get an opinion malus against me because they desire the land. Sometimes I want to make my son a Count but he's in another realm because I married him off to a duchess, etc.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #21: The Jovial Jerry (1262-1278)

24th of August, 1262

Pankratios II, barely an adult by law, was called to Athens from Germany, which he'd never even left before. He is an eager and amiable young man, but awfully confused by the sudden changes happening in his life. He often slips into his native German, occasionally even calling himself ”Kaiser” instead of Basileus, which some of his detractors have quickly adopted in a mocking tone.

https://i.imgur.com/fNmWPt8.jpg?1

His mother Queen Cothilda of Germany is very dear to him, but the realm seems more interested in her death. She isn't really old by any means, and hopefully no one will get her killed like they did with Pankratios' father, but when she does perish, Germany will pass to Pankratios. Some await this with glee, some with anxiety. At least her second husband, the King of Sweden, has plenty of other heirs, eliminating the ”risk” of inheriting that boreal wasteland as well.

https://i.imgur.com/1E4u2IP.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/AesDVaa.jpg?1

Word of new sovereigns arrives from abroad as well. In order to flee the Mongol tide, some Khazar tribes have been forced to migrate to the northwest – that is to say, conquer Ruthenia. The Khaganate of Pronsk has been formed in the Slavic heartland, precariously nestled between the Hungarians and the Volgan Rus. One of the first realms to embrace the Great Mend has been subjugated by Jews.

https://i.imgur.com/fWtbZa3.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/5HgnYKI.jpg?1

The Hellenic Empire itself is nominally at peace, but not in practice. In addition to some petty squabbles with the Muslims, there's still plenty of internal conflict, despite the Imperial laws forbidding most war between vassals; plenty of Doukes are happy to use force against lower nobles in their demesne, and those disputes have a nasty tendency to get out of hand.

https://i.imgur.com/IId1lhZ.jpg?1

Queen Barbara Skleros of Burgundy is forced to release her rebellious subjects in Brittany and Wales. The latter in particular will probably either unite into one realm soon enough or be conquered by some nearby power.

https://i.imgur.com/BnVUnLo.jpg?1

After about a year, Pankratios is still busy adjusting to his new position. He seems to have quite little interest in warfare, but when his own mother comes calling, he can't really refuse outright. It's just some border dispute over Luxemburg, and in a very inconvenient location, but surely even nominal support means something when it comes from the one true Empire.

In Africa, though, the breakaway Sultanate of Mauretania has decided to put the experience and training from its revolution to good use by trying to invade Carthage. The Kingdom is outnumbered by the zealous masses, forcing the Empire to join in.

https://i.imgur.com/tcY4j4B.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/XDq52C1.jpg?1

Pankratios musters all the men he can get from Greece and Sicily before setting off. Though untried and barely trained at warfare, he insists on at least participating to prove his worth. He does seem to pick up a thing or two.

https://i.imgur.com/wUfY2Wu.jpg?1

Though the Hellenics' initial landing in Alger goes unresisted, they're soon met by a fierce counterattack before they have the chance to properly reorganize themselves. The Duke of Cilicia, who is leading the battle, decides to retreat to join the other division rather than waste the lives of his men, himself or even the Basileus. None are more embarrassed than the sovereign himself.

https://i.imgur.com/tgAXG5g.jpg?1

This shameful rout reminds him of his own vulnerability, and he has a distracting flashback of the way his own father was murdered by a man disguised as an envoy, an assured ally. However, rather than become paranoid and push others away, he resolves to fight that instinct and earn their trust by trusting them himself!

https://i.imgur.com/cfmBe9S.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/hX787C2.jpg?1

The heroic force turns around, launching a daring offensive with the King of Croatia leading the charge. Pankratios decides to leave the fighting to those actually good at it. Even outnumbered, the Hellenic phalanxes are never truly outmatched! The battle is decided long before the Carthaginian reinforcements arrive to finish the job.

https://i.imgur.com/YXEYDGy.jpg?1

With his peasant army in ruins, Sultan Takfarinas can definitely be handled by Carthage on its own. The ultimately triumphant Hellenic army returns home.

https://i.imgur.com/1KyRgPf.jpg?1

Burgundy, on the other hand, seems to be continuing its decline. An alliance of nobles has forced Barbara to relinquish Aquitaine. Alain II, a scion of the Gellones family that used to rule Burgundy, has been installed as King. Burgundy has lost much if not most of its land, and become harshly splintered as well.

https://i.imgur.com/smK3NIk.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/iegwvDt.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/9tebF9f.jpg?1

At least the Sultan gives up soon after.

https://i.imgur.com/E70GYWd.jpg?1

Pankratios finally gets married in 1266. His wife of choice is Leonide, viceregal Princess of Jerusalem. Though they're almost polar opposites in many aspects of personality, the Exarch is almost suspiciously enthusiastic in his assurances that the girl will bear him many children. She has adopted a lot the local culture, though, and insists on wearing a veil in public. This looks a little weird in many Greek nobles' eyes.

https://i.imgur.com/fNJOB7U.jpg?1

As more years pass, the fighting over Luxemburg rages on, having attracted the interest of many states in the region, such as England and Lotharingia. Germany's side seems to have the advantage in numbers, but has failed to actually capture the city in all this ample time.

https://i.imgur.com/v5A89LT.jpg?1

The Empire itself has remained completely uninvolved. The 21-year-old Pankratios has settled into a relatively comfortable niche and rules the realm with a stable hand, but many people insist that he should continue his predecessors' series of crusades. Pankratios recognizes the necessity of war, but lacks both skill and real fervor for it. After enough pressure, he agrees to target something relatively simple, like the Yusufids' remaining scraps of land in de facto Hellenic Egypt.

https://i.imgur.com/BWJPO1t.jpg?1

With no real threats in sight, he joins the armies in the field to observe the workings of military organization and logistics.

The Western Mediterranean might soon see some great turmoil, though. The latest King of Carthage is quite willing to invade the re-emergent Aquitaine in hopes of claiming all of it for himself. Certainly a crusader state is overstepping its boundaries with such a brash move?

https://i.imgur.com/lcb8lwy.jpg?1

Germany's long war is finally decided as the Duke of Schwaben manages to capture the King of Bavaria himself. Shackled and forced to kneel, he has little choice but to accept Queen Cothilda's terms. It may be a rich and central province, but... it's still just a single province.

https://i.imgur.com/xE5xfF0.jpg?1

The surrender comes at an opportune time, allowing Cothilda to focus on the little rebellion that's sprung up in and around Saxony.

https://i.imgur.com/S7r0BY9.jpg?1

Meanwhile, the Hellenic Army is free to lay siege to the Yusufids, with nary an enemy in sight. By the time the contested area has been completely occupied, the Caliph has already taken the initiative to surrender and be done with it.

https://i.imgur.com/fgNDgm1.jpg?2

https://i.imgur.com/mn03QJ4.jpg?1

One more pesky enclave taken care of. Only Cyrenaica maintains the Caliphate's dwindling influence here in the east.

https://i.imgur.com/pfGYZTl.jpg?1

Egypt itself is now fully under Hellenic rule, marking another milestone of the Imperial Reclamation.

https://i.imgur.com/PkF7RqW.jpg?1

As simple as the affair and small his contribution may have been, the Basileus feels quite proud of this achievement. After all, successful conquest is indeed seen as the hallmark of any great ruler, so why shouldn't he bask in its glory?

https://i.imgur.com/iAR8hNV.jpg?1

To celebrate, he calls for a grand tournament in Athens.

King Phokas of Armenia, son of the famous Boethios, fights his way to first place. Boethios died only a few months ago, yet his heir is already quite old. Following in his father's footsteps, he has proven himself a worthy commander and warrior, but may have picked up some other undesirable tendencies as well... He's famous for having taken a vow of chastity, which is quite a source of mockery, given the mutual lack of interest between him and the fairer sex.

https://i.imgur.com/GwYikTb.jpg?1

Second place is taken by Theodotos, the son of a Baron, who has become infamous for his rumored conversion to Catholicism and often crazed behavior. Even in the ring he often seemed almost a man possessed.

https://i.imgur.com/3ieBJro.jpg?1

In third place is Basilissa Leonide's younger brother Adhid, already a rugged and very talented officer in Jerusalem's army.

https://i.imgur.com/JiLYVtz.jpg?1

Even though the tournament is a success, there are other worries on Pankratios' mind: after four years of marriage and despite his *ahem* best efforts, Leonide has yet to become pregnant! They get along just fine, but she often seems reluctant to even try. Her recent interest in *ahem* romantic literature, which he has generously sponsored, has luckily brought him some new hope.

https://i.imgur.com/m6TiiNP.jpg?1

Overall, the Basileus' peaceful nature has allowed him to spend more time with his wife and dynasty than most of his predecessors did.

https://i.imgur.com/wtvflnS.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ZK6VMeR.jpg?1

After a couple more years, Leonide finally announces her pregnancy! Pankratios could have gotten to used to the old routine, to be entirely honest, but this is ultimately a huge weight off his shoulders. Nine months later a healthy boy is born. The overjoyed Pankratios wants to name him Philipp at first, but is persuaded to add an -os at the end to make it sound more... Greek.

https://i.imgur.com/67Mz34v.jpg?1

After arduous fighting, Carthage's mad plan ends up being successful, expanding the crusaders' grasp into Christian Europe. It's quite a source of controversy all over Christendom; some even question Basileus Theophanes II's wisdom in creating the state. Of course, it remains to be seen whether they can even hold onto their gains. Pankratios refrains from commenting.

https://i.imgur.com/8zm0TGH.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/2pi207i.jpg?1

Leonide later gives birth to a daughter, Jutta a.k.a. Ioudith.

https://i.imgur.com/oCUvYTq.jpg?1

On the 7th of February 1278, Queen Cothilda ”finally” dies a natural death. She was a quiet yet fierce woman, even in her final years, and a beloved mother of eight.

https://i.imgur.com/Mgbhali.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/FDXVWKh.jpg?1

Her passing is a tragic day for Pankratios, but momentous as well. He has a very difficult, possibly even quite painful, decision ahead of him...
With Cothilda's death, Pankratios is now the ruler of both the Hellenic Empire and of Germany. While this could be seen as a grand occasion, the special meeting called in Athens seems to think otherwise. The situation is seen as impractical at best. The Basileus awaits the congress' decision in a rather anxious mood.

https://i.imgur.com/ZkH9hT0.jpg?1

Germany may be one of the greatest Christian powers, but it is also a foreign Kingdom separated from the rest of the Empire and full of unhappy vassals. Many believe the Empire should simply put another Skleros on the throne, someone who could travel to Nassau and rule the realm properly, the Basileus' younger brother Valerios for instance. It would gain the dynasty even more influence and the Empire another strong ally, a simple and practical choice overall.

https://i.imgur.com/WVRQR9x.jpg?1

A few believe it would be best to reduce the amount of strong states instead, now that there's such a good opportunity. The Basileus could forcefully dismantle Germany and split it into a number of smaller Counties, Duchies and Bishoprics, incapable of ever rivaling the Empire or its allies. Of course, there's a big risk the area would descend into an utter mess of infighting and allow the surrounding realms to expand instead...
I probably won't release them in this exact (hideous) configuration shown here.]

https://i.imgur.com/EckJFbD.jpg?1

That last part doesn't sound very convincing, inspiring an even more novel idea: the realm could be converted into the Germanic League, an elective monarchy of sorts, consisting of those aforementioned smaller states. They could handle their matters diplomatically and stand together against external threats while still avoiding too much centralization of power. Some see this option as an interesting little ”experiment” in statecraft as well.
[If it survives into EU4, the Germanic League will replace the HRE (which otherwise won't exist at all) and use its mechanics, with a few flavor changes. Consider whether that's a good thing or not.]

Of course, there's a minority of those who fail to understand the situation and hate the idea of voluntarily giving up so much power and wealth. Why not just keep all of Germany in the Empire? If the lack of a land connection is that much of a problem, we can just get one, right?
[Pick at your own risk...]

[All votes and arguments are welcome, in our out of character, as are simple one sentence answers!]
The ambitious Doux of Tabriz has managed to push further into tumultuous Persia, which recently underwent a series of large civil wars, and conquer the Emirate of Khorasan. He's looking a little precariously overextended...

https://i.imgur.com/1Wtx8iO.jpg?1

The expatriated Yusufids have managed to move south and subjugate all of Mali, regaining much of their lost power.

[gah, no screenshot]

Northern Europe has remained relatively similar if not stable, different powers waning and waxing in turns; it seems to be Norway's time to shine at the moment. The unified Kingdom of Finland managed to push quite far south, and even remained pagan for a good while before getting Orthodox Swedes on the throne. sniff

https://i.imgur.com/3q7pt95.jpg?1

A little to the east, the Volgan Rus have finally become the last notable European state to reject loose tribalism in favor of a feudal system of government. They still hold onto their paganism, though.

https://i.imgur.com/bqmdgYm.jpg?1

The Mongol Empire has remained mighty, and its mounted army is said to be the largest in the world, yet it hasn't really been used for a while.

https://i.imgur.com/E8030av.jpg?1
Pretty interesting vote, if I say so myself!

Technical issues and a lot of assorted frustrations delayed this chapter quite a bit, but I finally decided to just suck it up and get at least one update out. I'm going to Istanbul Constantinople you see, so it'll be at least another week before the next one. Playing should hopefully become a lot less agonizingly slow when I finally finish these ever-expanding upgrades to my computer... it's one compatibility problem after another. Soon there'll be nothing left of the machine I had a few weeks ago. :smalltongue:

My main gripe with rulers from other cultures is that you immediately lose the culture-specific buildings in all your personal holdings. I think they should just transform into those of your new culture or something... I shamelessly cheated them back last time, and will probably do the same once again when Pan here dies.

[Tentreto]

Well, I would personally hand off Germany to another Skelros, being the safest option- we don't want a state such as Carthage becoming a great threat. We must remember, we are more a Mediterranean power about over expansion than a European one, so we should be very careful. My second vote would however- if we were to create an elective, to keep a province to control the vote.

And I never realised that about culture buildings... I never have actually changed culture:smallwink:

[Eldan]

Huh. Yeah, that sucks about culture buildings.

Anyway, Another Skleros. It seems a good compromise, it spreads the glory of the Skleroi dynasty, while still making administration sensible.

[OrcusMcP]

Germany has always been a land of dark forests, fierce men and destructive war. The Hellenic Empire would be well rid of this eyesore of a kingdom. Yet we are not unmerciful, we have brought civilization to the furthest reaches of the world, and we can do so in Germany as well.

Much as Greece thrived as the bedrock of democracy in the ancient days of old, let us instruct the Germans in its ways. The Germanic League should be sufficient.

[IthilanorStPete]

The fate of Burgundy should be instructive; merely setting up another client kingdom under a branch of the Skleroi is doomed to failure. Instead, let us bring the heritage of Athens to distant Germany and experiment with democracy through the Germanic League. If it succeeds,civilization shall thank us for paving a new road for the many kingdoms of Europe. If it fails...well, the core of the Empire will remain untouched and untarnished.

[GnomeGninjas]

I know this wasn't an option in the vote (and there may be a game mechanic I'm unaware of that prevents it), but I'd be interested in Releasing Germany as an Independent Orthodox Theocracy.

[Actana]

I know this wasn't an option in the vote (and there may be a game mechanic I'm unaware of that prevents it), but I'd be interested in Releasing Germany as an Independent Orthodox Theocracy.

Let's go a bit further with this: give Germany to a holy order and release them. Let them do what they do best in Europe.

If that's not an option, Germanic League is my vote.

[Rockphed]

I move that we put a skleros on the throne of the German League.

[mythmonster2]

I'm just gonna go ahead and vote for the German League.

[Tentreto]

Let's go a bit further with this: give Germany to a holy order and release them. Let them do what they do best in Europe.



This seems a far more interesting option, and one more likely to give stability to Europe. This is now officially my first choice. Now do we have a skelros in any holy order...

[Rockphed]

This seems a far more interesting option, and one more likely to give stability to Europe. This is now officially my first choice. Now do we have a skelros in any holy order...

The only problem is that the only Orthodox holy order is the Brothers of the Holy Sepulchre, who already own Jerusalem and are our vassals.

[Yaktan]

Send another Skleros. While it is too disconnected to be ruled properly from athens, they can receive proper ruling from a proper greek.

[Rockphed]

Send another Skleros. While it is too disconnected to be ruled properly from athens, they can receive proper ruling from a proper greek.

If we send our brother, he would probably be a German.

[Slayn82]

Basileus, I side with those that believe an experiment on the proposed Germanic League would be for the best of the Empire and of your German vassals.

[idhrendur]

I say go for the Germanic League.

[TheTeaMustFlow]

I vote Germanic League.

[SilverLeaf167]

SPECIAL #7: The Fate of Germany (1278)

Put another Skleros on the throne: 4
Forcefully dismantle Germany: 0
Create the Germanic League: 7
Keep all of Germany: 0

Create a powerful Theocracy: 1
Give it to a Holy Order: 2

https://i.imgur.com/vGHC7oA.jpg?1

Der Deutscher Bund, Foedus germanicus, Germaniko omospondia; whatever you call it, the nascent Germanic League is a disgrace in the eyes of many. The German nobility fears for its rights, anticipating the forceful partition of its lands as dictated by some foreign autocrat. Many Hellenic electors are worried about the unbeaten path they've embarked on. People on both sides and beyond feel that the Empire has overstepped its authority by destroying a mighty nation just to remake it as some artificial state, some insane experiment playing with the lives of lesser men.

When the perhaps rather half-baked suggestion was first put forth, many disregarded it as a total joke. However, as the voting went on, the idea of a great democratic power in the middle of Europe started to grow on the electors. The Hellenic Empire itself had remained firmly feudal and hereditary, even putting down some quite large rebellions to maintain this status quo, but outside its borders the ambitious Greeks were much more willing to test their limits.

Heated debates engulfed the Panhellenic Stadium, where the congress was being held, and the rest of the Athenian upper class as well. The ”German question” was supposed to stay a relatively quiet if not quite secret affair, but soon enough everyone seemed to have a more or less founded opinion on the matter. It took days for some sort of compromise to be reached, and all sorts of new suggestions were integrated with that mad, mad mess of a plan.

Basileus Pankratios II himself was pained to see his birthland get so savagely ripped apart just to satisfy the curiosity of his advisors. The large duchies of the area were split and reorganized into smaller federal states to hopefully create a new internal balance within the League. Only the most naive truly expected it to remain peaceful per se, but for their idea of democracy to work, the playing field would have to be evened somewhat. The royal throne was replaced with the office of the Chancellor, elected by the lords of the realm.

Many people demanded that the Basileus' brother be given Germany; to appease them, he was made the Duke of Nassau and the first Chancellor of the League. He or the rest of his family wouldn't have to leave their dear home. Pankratios himself took the opportunity to visit Nassau, offer his deepest apologies for everything and explain the rather confusing situation his inexperienced brother had suddenly gotten mixed up in.

https://i.imgur.com/n9XXnXb.jpg?1

In addition, several rich provinces were converted into Free Cities ruled by Bürgermeister, or simply Mayors. Greek, Italian and German city-states alike were used as examples in the creation of these little republican havens, which include Aachen, Bremen, Hamburg, Lübeck, Nürnberg and Ulm.

https://i.imgur.com/2INoCxG.jpg?1

The seats of some important Bishoprics were given to their respective Bishops to govern in the name of God in order to secure the United Church's presence and vote in the League. These include Köln, Mainz, Münster and Würzburg.

https://i.imgur.com/ni13gOB.jpg?1

In the same vein of maintaining religious authority, the practically defunct Teutonic Order was revived under Orthodox control and put in charge of the County of Meissen on the eastern border. Their holdings may seem meager, but most of their wealth and swords are likely to come from the pious donors and volunteers around Europe.

https://i.imgur.com/9C4ESXE.jpg?1

The rest of the realm was divided along new borders drawn in the halls of Athens with little concern for the local lords' or peasants' irrelevant opinions. Besides Nassau, there were three more Duchies: Baden, Gelre and Saxony. All others were made into smaller states of one or two Counties.

https://i.imgur.com/lb1TBRQ.jpg?1

As the Basileus rode back south, he could feel that he was leaving behind a land that might or might not erupt into great turmoil at any minute. He wondered whether it would've been better to go against the will of his advisors – he was the unquestionable Emperor, after all – but it was too late now.
It's kind of annoying that Valerios will probably centralize the realm through Duchies anyway, but we'll just have to see how the League looks in 1444.

Don't take this slow pace of updates as a sign of me losing interest; if anything, I'm waiting to continue. I'm not going to jinx it again by outright stating that my technical issues will be fixed next week, but I sure hope so.

[mythmonster2]

Huh, I've never seen most of those titles before, like Chancellor or Burgermeister. Are they just in the game, or did you mod them in somehow?

[SilverLeaf167]

Modded them in, they're just replacements for "King" and "Mayor" respectively. Same with Free City.

Metropolitan is the vanilla name for an Orthodox Prince-Bishop though, and Hochmeister is specific to the Teutonic Order.

[Tentreto]

Well, democracy ho!
Forgot that Pankratios was German... and that it was the entire reason for the debate :smallbiggrin:
Either way, we're going to be living in interesting times.

[Valley]

Very interesting. Posting to Watch. Can't wait to see what happens when the Mongols start to knock on the front door.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #22: The Cheerless Cripple (1278-1296)

1st of March, 1278

Within just the last decade, the relative stability of Western Europe has been greatly shaken. The apparent end of Burgundy's golden age has offered Carthage – a Christian state founded to keep the peace in Africa – the opportunity to turn the tables and push onto the mainland. Germany, one of the greatest Kingdoms of Europe, has been abruptly and radically rearranged into the Germanic League. With the Hellenic Empire's seeming lack of interest, the reconquest of Iberia has ground to an awkward halt.

Basileus Pankratios II is concerned, but not enough to stray from the path of careful moderation his reign has followed for the past 15 years.

https://i.imgur.com/xrrmOaZ.jpg?1

Even then, however, he can't refuse León's urgent call for help against the Umayyads. This is no little skirmish; they threaten the whole realm, the unity of which has been weakened by civil unrest.

https://i.imgur.com/HvPKNEi.jpg?1

He raises 50 000 men from Greece and Sicily and joins them on their voyage. Sultan Abdul-Hakam's commanders seem quite unorganized, managing to lose almost a fifth of their men to attrition alone before the Hellenics even arrive.

https://i.imgur.com/nq53xYM.jpg?1

The army on the southern coast, accompanied by the Basileus himself, is soon attacked by the Muslim force. The terrain is open and the long battle an utter massacre; both sides lose the majority of their men, but the Hellenic Empire emerges victorious and Pankratios unharmed.

https://i.imgur.com/DzfXfZr.jpg?1

However, war has definitely lost what little splendor it had in his eyes and turned into a terrible waste of human life. Pankratios may even be losing his drive for rulership in general.

https://i.imgur.com/HVIHHbb.jpg?1

He is not very pleased to hear that his brother Valerios, such a peaceful soul, has decided to use his newfound power for petty conquest.

https://i.imgur.com/XRlCb0I.jpg?1

At least the Sultan stumbles from one defeat to another, allowing León to make a favorable peace about a year later.

https://i.imgur.com/kUn6T1e.jpg?1

The war for Kempten is a swift success as well, strengthening the League's presence across the Danube and edging quite close to the Bavarian capital.

https://i.imgur.com/S5hmX41.jpg?1

Basilissa Leonide bears another daughter, Helene.

https://i.imgur.com/dV4pfxe.jpg?1

A couple years later, the twins Demetrios and Georgia join the family as well.

https://i.imgur.com/BFSeijO.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/eDGmjWE.jpg?1

Pankratios spending this much time at court is clearly ”bearing fruit”, judging from the birth of Argyros.

https://i.imgur.com/pZkfD9V.jpg?1

As much as the Basileus dislikes warmongering, his advisors convince him to conquer Cyrenaica. The war is quite short and effortless, eliminating the last pieces of Yusufid Caliphate's presence in the Mediterranean... and earning the Empire a border with Carthage. The two states' relations have always been friendly, if rather awkward as of late, but this might cause some friction in the future.

https://i.imgur.com/7jIfXwG.jpg?1

The final expulsion of Islam from the Mediterranean is still cause for celebration, of course.

https://i.imgur.com/tfqXxx9.jpg?1

In 1290, crown prince Philippos comes of age. He has been tutored by the illustrious Duke of Tabriz, who has conquered great swaths of land in the east while also serving as Chancellor and Commander. While he did a good job raising the boy into a proper Greek and teaching him good manners, Philippos seems to have a rather lacking understanding of the practical side of rulership: he is charming and diplomatic, but has practically no concept of administration or economy. Pankratios still has faith in him, of course.

https://i.imgur.com/ZF41uIt.jpg?1

Speaking of faith, the Muslims have apparently been quite provoked by the loss of Cyrenaica. They have called for a renewed Jihad against Carthage, perhaps hoping that the controversy still surrounding the state would disencourage the rest of Christendom from helping. That almost ends up happening, but ultimately the Greeks decide that they cannot risk the return of Islam to the sea they'd just managed to reclaim, whatever their attitude towards Carthage.

https://i.imgur.com/kOHE73I.jpg?1

Pankratios doesn't intend to involve himself too much, though, ”only” raising 40 000 men from mainland Greece and even planning to hold back the Phalanx of the Parthenon, which usually leads the vanguard in practically every war. However, just as the troops are mustering, he receives an unexpected ultimatum: an alliance of vassals from the Levant (plus Venetia) have decided to demand their independence from the Empire. While the Basileus absolutely detests having to fight his own countrymen, he simply can't allow this great nation his ancestors forged to be snapped in the middle, can he? Accepting would mean the loss of vast, valuable territories and the holy city of Antioch! With great sorrow, he sends his refusal in the most flowery language possible and prepares for civil war. The die is cast; Carthage will have to defend itself.

https://i.imgur.com/JbidN8n.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Ng5QwDS.jpg?1

The leader of this treasonous cabal is Kallinikos Atrapes, the young Doux of Jazira. Based on numbers alone, he shouldn't stand a chance, and if history is anything to go on, he probably won't have the strategic advantage either.

https://i.imgur.com/uFRR9RL.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/x1gNGsp.jpg?1

The confused troops are given their new orders to sail in the opposite direction than what was planned. Venetia is small and isolated enough to be safely ignored. The elite regiments, including the Phalanx, the Brotherhood and the Varangians, march straight for the rebel leader's lands, while Pankratios tags along with the other army headed south. After landing in Beirut, they bravely assault the nearby enemy, but as reinforcements arrive, the battle turns sour and bloody. With 40 000 countrymen dead on both sides, it is a Pyrrhic victory at best, and Pankratios weeps in the face of the massacre. Much like in Iberia, the horrible loss of life has shocked him deeply. He orders his remaining men not to pursue the fleeing enemy, hoping to avoid further bloodshed, and to focus on gathering their plentiful dead instead.

https://i.imgur.com/RIyqUu2.jpg?1

The Ecumenical Patriarch's call for a Great Crusade against Jewish-held Georgia really couldn't have come at a much worse time. The Hellenic Empire will sit this one out; perhaps the rest of Christendom will contribute for once.

https://i.imgur.com/DszjXDR.jpg?1

Even a letter from Leonide, happily speaking of another beautiful daughter, does nothing to cheer up the Basileus.

https://i.imgur.com/xyTgsSv.jpg?1

Though the war effort is going well from a practical standpoint, the respected ruler seems to be slipping. It's not mere depression, though, even if that may have been one of the causes: at the age of 46, he has suddenly become like an ancient old man: feeble in mind and body, barely able to stand without a cane or remember what he's supposed to be doing. What a pitiable state for a good man to fall into.

https://i.imgur.com/qdRX4tz.jpg?1

At least his wish is fulfilled in that there are no more major battles for a full year, Doux Kallinikos offering a white peace after having lost his capital and most of his army. Though Pankratios could probably crush and imprison him, he's willing to take any offer that means there won't be another day of war. However, resentment is sure to stew under the calm facade and threaten to cause another rebellion.

https://i.imgur.com/O6yTwbn.jpg?1

The Second Jihad for Carthage ends up being a failure, despite the Empire's distractions: though Carthage lost most of its army early on and was on the verge of defeat, the King of France swooped in for the timely rescue and eventually won the war!

https://i.imgur.com/jL4njGb.jpg?1

However, Christendom isn't doing nearly as well on the eastern front: even though plenty of lords big and small have decided to join in, Khantia has the recently converted Mongol Empire on its side! The massive horde has effortlessly trampled any and all invaders.

https://i.imgur.com/Oz7G6cs.jpg?1

Pankratios is quite content to stay in Athens. Now that the civil war is over, he has managed to cheer up again. At a particularly jolly party, a little too much wine even inspires him to throw aside his cane and start dancing on the tables like a mere lad! The baffled but happy onlookers are about to declare a miraculous recovery, but Pankratios ruins the moment by collapsing onto a brazier. Despite the quick rescue, his left arm is horribly charred to the point of uselessness, and the court receives a grim reminder of their liege's true condition.

https://i.imgur.com/ckUgUTE.jpg?1

He doesn't suffer for long. The burn soon becomes badly infected, which is simply too much for his bizarrely weak body to take. On the 16th of August 1296, Pankratios II Skleros gives up the ghost after a week on his deathbed. His long reign saw far more fighting than he would've preferred, and as seems to be the fate of great men, it was doomed to end in disgrace. He was a man of virtue; perhaps it was those very virtues that brought him crashing down in times of hardship.

https://i.imgur.com/ykCvECI.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/mLFWRLk.jpg?1

Long live Philippos Skleros, second of his name, Basileus of the Hellenic Empire, King of Greece, Anatolia and Kurdistan, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika and Chalkidike, Sovereign Lord of Egypt, Azerbaijan and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/ipTriaI.jpg?1
Just the last few years have seen great and not so great conversions on the frontiers of Christianity, in addition to the conquest of Cyrenaica:

The Finns and the Volgan Rus have finally embraced the Orthodox faith, casting aside their pagan religions, though the conversion seems a bit superficial and they'll definitely hold onto their old traditions. With this, only small pockets of paganism remain within Europe!

https://i.imgur.com/4fjyKS2.jpg?1

The same thing has happened in Khazaria, the first horde to willingly convert away from Judaism! They're sandwiched by hostile powers, but may those others follow their grand example!

https://i.imgur.com/hihNrO5.jpg?1

That doesn't seem particularly likely, though, given that the Mongol Empire has become the Jewish faith's staunch (and massive) defender, spreading it across the steppes once again. With this, the already slightly dwindling religion has suddenly gained some 100 000 fierce warriors. This is very inconvenient, as seen in the Great Crusade for Georgia.

https://i.imgur.com/7wmh7A9.jpg?1
Sorry for the massive delays! Now that this turmoil of treacherous technology (and terrible tardiness) has been terminated, I should be able to maintain something resembling a weekly schedule.

Never seen that last event before, not sure what even causes it. I could have picked the other options for a mere chance of mild wounding, but I opted not to hold back for no reason.

This is the Mongols' first real contact with Christian armies, and they're definitely getting more and more threatening by the day...

And yes, I know I said I'd at least consider factions' demands from now on, but look at that gap in the realm! That ain't happening on my watch! (And I don't think any sensible ruler would allow it anyway)

[Tentreto]

It seems we may soon be coming to another great clash between Christendom and Judaism, and the Greeks and the Hordes. Hopefully the positions won't be reversed. The Basileus is not exactly a warrior, so this could be the greatest crisis for the empire.

Also, just a thank you for keeping this up. We've managed to make Greece great under your guidance and time!

[mythmonster2]

I've just gotta reiterate that I absolutely love how the hordes have embraced Judaism in this game. Why can't any of my games have cool stuff like that happen outside of my territory?

[Corvus]

Judaism is about the only religion the hordes haven't adopted in my game :)

[IthilanorStPete]

Excellent, great to have you back! The "dress up as wild men" event is a neat little event based off the historical Bal des Ardents (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bal_des_Ardents); I've had it happen a few times. The code for it is in feudal_life_events.txt, id 4175; if I'm reading it right, it can trigger for men during peacetime who are lunatics, possessed, infirm, and/or drunkards. It's got a higher likelihood of happening to infirm/incapable rulers.

[GnomeGninjas]

What are you gonna do once you convert to EU4? You're so huge and powerful already.

[SilverLeaf167]

I've just gotta reiterate that I absolutely love how the hordes have embraced Judaism in this game. Why can't any of my games have cool stuff like that happen outside of my territory?


Judaism is about the only religion the hordes haven't adopted in my game :)

Khazaria starts as Jewish (with a single Jewish province) in the 867 start. In earlier patches they usually died or converted pretty quickly, but Horse Lords kinda turned the tables AFAIK. :smalltongue:


Excellent, great to have you back! The "dress up as wild men" event is a neat little event based off the historical Bal des Ardents (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bal_des_Ardents); I've had it happen a few times. The code for it is in feudal_life_events.txt, id 4175; if I'm reading it right, it can trigger for men during peacetime who are lunatics, possessed, infirm, and/or drunkards. It's got a higher likelihood of happening to infirm/incapable rulers.

Okay, good to know! Historical trivia is always neat.


What are you gonna do once you convert to EU4? You're so huge and powerful already.

Well, I'm gonna give most of my provinces big autonomy to start with, but that's only a temporary solution, and we'll still be really strong; I might actually mod in a special government type with a minimum level of autonomy around 25 or something. Other than that, we'll just have to pick big fights: an alliance of only two great powers should be capable of at least matching us in strength, and we'll just have to see what becomes of the Mongol superpower in these 150 years. In addition, I might end up releasing some of my border regions.

But yeah, it's probably going to require some self-nerfing, and I'm trying to avoid much further conquest in CK2. I'll also have to impose roleplaying restrictions, like not sending my entire army into every little war, but... I hope I can find some way to play without having to constantly hold myself back.

As for what I'll do, perhaps become World Police? :smallwink:

[Flickerdart]

As for what I'll do, perhaps become World Police? :smallwink:
Release all your border regions as client states (in the style of the ancient Greek city-states and colonies, perhaps?) and focus on colonizing stuff and turning it into more subjects rather than outright conquest.

[OrcusMcP]

I figure you have a few options, with inspiration from some of the other unique gov forms and big countries in EU4. All of these would obviously be flavour dependant on how the empire is set up by the 1400s.

-You could emulate Ming and have a faction system that hamstrings you in certain ways, so that at any given point you could still be super strong, just not at everything all at once.
-Emulate Japan and have a Shogunate style government with a bunch of squabbling client states all aiming for your job.
-Have the Hellenic empire be the HRE (though you may be planning for the Germanic League to take that role).
-Be more like the Ottomans, very dangerous and powerful, but bake in some events/disasters that make you more brittle than it may seem.
-Be more like England, and have a parliament that will need very tender care and attention.

The Estates system from the upcoming EU4 expansion may also be a big help in trying to find ways to keep you inwardly nervous.

[Flickerdart]

-You could emulate Ming and have a faction system that hamstrings you in certain ways, so that at any given point you could still be super strong, just not at everything all at once.

Didn't this get changed, so that Ming is no longer useless at everything?

[Eldan]

They aren't quite as bad anymore, but still not all that strong.
For at least a while, though, if someone else took over china, they got all the benefits and none of the disadvantages of the celestial empire, which made Qing, as one example, totally unstoppable.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #23: The Sickly Season (1296-1329)

19th of August, 1296

Basileus Philippos II is youthful and amicable, but talking seems to be one of the only things he's all that good at. Even then, he aims to be a benevolent ruler, to improve himself, and better understand the workings of the Empire and the millions of people within it.

https://i.imgur.com/ejFm3wt.jpg?1

He does his best to ignore the disastrous Crusade still raging in Georgia, preferring to look for a wife instead. Plenty of candidates are swarming to Athens for him to choose from, after all. He doesn't want a long-term betrothal with a young girl, but few of the girls his age seem quite suitable either, so he eventually settles on Katarina, sister to the King of Finland, a rising and newly Christian power. They get married next summer when she turns 16.

https://i.imgur.com/OeC9HBT.jpg?1

Indeed, only a few days later he receives word that the last Christian forces in Georgia have been slaughtered and the Crusade has been declared an utter failure. Hopefully it also serves as a warning and a lesson in humility, reminding everyone of the Mongols' frightful might.

https://i.imgur.com/7MJj8l0.jpg?1

The Church is clearly looking for ways to reinforce its influence after this embarrassment, bringing an accused witch for Philippos to judge. It's clear that they've already decided her guilt, but come seeking his validation anyway. Anxious to please, Philippos is willing to trust their judgment rather than form his own.

https://i.imgur.com/OaH5tjP.jpg?1

He puts a lot of time and effort into surveying his realm and trying to grasp the magnitude of his responsibilities.

https://i.imgur.com/mB39TYG.jpg?1

Chancellor Otto, son of Valerios, asks for Philippos' aid in some border squabbles. He declares his support, but both sides know he's unlikely to actually send any troops.

https://i.imgur.com/VeI62hC.jpg?1

The Skleroi's ties with Finland are further strengthened with Princess Helene's marriage to Duke Karl of Lithuania (not to be confused with the separate and very bitter Kingdom of Lithuania), Crown Prince of Finland.

https://i.imgur.com/Cglq2XA.jpg?1

Speaking of family relations, in a very strange twist, Chancellor Otto is killed in battle and Philippos just happens to be the closest male relative. Apparently, just within a couple decades, they've managed to mess up the elective system, making Philippos the new Chancellor – of the very same Germanic League that was created specifically to get rid of Germany.

https://i.imgur.com/dg57zuh.jpg?1

The rather confused Philippos sends his brother Demetrios to Nassau, reinstates the electorate and lets the German lords vote for their own ruler. Much to his surprise, they choose the 15-year old boy! Apparently they've ended up rather happy under the Skleroi.

https://i.imgur.com/CSMH8ln.jpg?1

Philippos himself is headed in a rather strange direction, though. He's been having fits lately, spasming and babbling unintelligibly. The rumors say he's possessed by some evil spirit or demon; quite possibly Mongol in origin, they solemnly. The Church is doing its best to cure him, and the court is trying to keep the whole thing as quiet as possible, but news of Emperors' madness tend to travel quickly.

https://i.imgur.com/w2eVwhP.jpg?1

The Hellenic Empire remains peaceful nonetheless. Its stability and eastern influence even pave the way for the spread of knowledge and deeper understanding of the mysterious Far East among Europeans.

https://i.imgur.com/wu0VXPp.jpg?1

Years pass. Philippos spends a lot time lying sick in bed and letting his council take care of things, but it never seems too serious. In March 1304, Katarina gives birth to Simonis, their first and so far only child.

https://i.imgur.com/Ybt5etA.jpg?1

Carthage and Sicily compete for Philippos' beautiful sister's hand in marriage, but he ends up favoring the latter's Crown Prince over the still-controversial Carthage.

https://i.imgur.com/WlwhVaQ.jpg?1

Countless hopefuls have already tried and failed, but a monk from Mt Athos is finally successful in driving out Philippos' tireless tormentors, back to the steppes they came from! His faith in the power of God is noticeably reawakened.

https://i.imgur.com/SF9N34f.jpg?1

However, even though his reign has been calm and prosperous and he learnt quite quickly, he has somehow earned himself the nickname of ”Ill-Ruler”. It might just be a pun on his constant sickness, though.

https://i.imgur.com/px65U9g.jpg?1

In the summer of 1307, illness seems to be a rising topic in general: Sultan Ayyub of the Umayyads, while leading his troops in some skirmish on the Leonese border, is reported to have fallen terribly ill with some new sort of plague! His face is speckled with horrid boils and he lies dying in bed. The same sickness could be seen among many of his soldiers, and there have been scattered reports of it elsewhere, but he is the first high-profile victim. The sickness is said to have arrived in Granada on some ship from Khazaria. There's little love lost between him and Christendom, but many lords of Europe are starting to fear for their own safety if this plague continues to spread. It's surely just a seasonal thing, though.

https://i.imgur.com/nkCJdvL.jpg?1

The King of León is infected soon after.

https://i.imgur.com/GJBpipH.jpg?1

Ancel, a Burgundian soldier, is the first Skleros to fall.

https://i.imgur.com/5hvcaFL.jpg?1

Within just a few weeks, the plague also pops up everywhere from Barcelona to Savonia to Perm, spreading on a north-east trajectory at unprecedented speed. In fact, many experts believe that this speed is impossible and that the plague must have appeared in multiple places at once. A rapidly growing number of people are calling it a punishment from God; for what exactly, they don't know, but mankind honestly isn't all that nice in general. If the illness truly arrived from Khazaria, it must have sailed right through Constantinople! The fact that all lands east and south of the Alps seem safe for now – Greece included – reinforces the belief that the Empire is truly blessed. The fact that God seems to make an exception for the sinful Carthaginians definitely helps.

https://i.imgur.com/NNpLvny.jpg?1

No such luck: in early 1308 the Alps are crossed and the plague eventually spreads to Sicily. The Hellenes better start holing up inside their palaces as well.

https://i.imgur.com/lVHZDS1.jpg?1

However, by the end of the year, the plague seems to disappear off the face of the Earth, leaving in its wake a huge slew of corpses but surprisingly few ”of note”: the ever-feuding rulers of Iberia seem to be the only sovereigns killed, even the seemingly-smitten King of Carthage having survived. Their thrones have been inherited by a woman and a young boy. Perhaps the plague's true purpose actually was to pacify the area for a while?

Whatever it was, the Hellenes can rest easy and confident, since despite a few close calls the plague seems to have bypassed the area almost completely. The rest of Europe weeps while Greece... kind of just stands there at the metaphorical funeral, trying not to look too smug.

In 1310, King Theoktistos of Burgundy decides to exploit the Umayyads' weakness and try to reforge his realm from the ashes. He asks for Philippos' help in this holy, ahem, rerereconquest of València, and he agrees: the Empire must show God its gratefulness for being spared from the plague!

https://i.imgur.com/eoGAZUG.jpg?1

He raises some 25 000 men and sends them right for the main objective; they should be more than enough against the weakened Muslims.

https://i.imgur.com/4EVyc46.jpg?1

This war and its initial successes seem to be bringing out a new side of him: 15 years into his reign, the Ill-Ruler has finally found his true confidence and drive for greatness! Friendly visits to Iberia truly are a rite of passage for all Basileis.

https://i.imgur.com/DS9o3W3.jpg?1

The Umayyads are either unwilling or unable to put up much of a fight, and the young Sultan is even the one to offer his own surrender. València has once again been conquered for Christendom! Hopefully it can be held a little longer this time.

https://i.imgur.com/z1QvYCl.jpg?1

In the years that follow, Philippos continues to improve himself as a ruler and improve his reputation among the people, though the playful nickname still sticks. He and Katarina also prepare for the very real possibility of Simonis inheriting the throne and becoming the first reigning Basilissa in the Empire's history, but 1316, when she's already 12 years old, little Niketas is born. It's ultimately a relief for most (except the tantrum-throwing Simonis), but since Philippos is already 42 years old, it may well bode a regency in the Empire's future.

https://i.imgur.com/a6hcBUw.jpg?1

Another daughter Agne is born two years later.

https://i.imgur.com/55qF50x.jpg?1

After another two years, Theodora.

https://i.imgur.com/GEwBwEg.jpg?1

In 1322, long-brewing tensions finally erupt in the Skleros family: Philippos' younger brother Argyros has always been very bitter about the way that the Germanic League was handed to Demetrios and released from the Empire, and now he has finally decided to try and do something about it! He has managed to gather a host of ambitious, like-minded soldiers and embarked for Nassau! He probably doesn't really stand a chance, but Philippos is disappointed and concerned to see his brothers warring like this.

https://i.imgur.com/CR6SngT.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/zFHWX7A.jpg?1

Argyros is defeated almost as soon as he arrives and locked in the dungeons of Nassau. To Philippos' great sorrow, he dies of illness a year later.

https://i.imgur.com/YWIzRqq.jpg?1

Brotherly love is strained elsewhere in the world as well, as even the Carthaginians themselves don't seem too happy with their new expansionist bent. A faction of nobles has banished the former King to rule his precious Aquitaine while Carthage itself will be handled by his younger brother. Both realms erupt into civil war soon after. The balance of power has been restored somewhat, but Burgundy's fall may well be irreversible.

https://i.imgur.com/fhcNuGF.jpg?1

On the 4th of March 1329, a worrisome call to arms echoes in the streets and halls of Athens: the Fourth Great Crusade has been called, headed for Georgia once again! Thirty years have passed since the catastrophic last attempt, but it still shines bright in Christendom's collective memory. It is obvious that the Patriarch expects the Empire's support in this endeavor, and that is indeed what will probably make or break this war.

https://i.imgur.com/NS2XXUY.jpg?1

Philippos still isn't really sure what to do: he's confident in the Empire's might, and the realm has a reputation to maintain, but would it really be worth it to join the Crusade and send potentially several dozen thousand soldiers to their deaths in the mountains of a backwater like Georgia? It would be for the will of God and the glory of Christ, but the Jews haven't been a real threat in centuries; hell, they're barely even hostile at this point. Would it be better for the Empire to hold back once again and spare its men the torture? The Khanate of Khantia itself is a nonissue, but there is a good chance of the dreaded Mongols showing up again. Even in the case of victory, the directly adjacent Georgia would probably have to be added to the already-cumbersome realm, especially given the mess caused by the last independent Crusader state.

https://i.imgur.com/PBsw77g.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Ks55Iuy.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Y6U0TJe.jpg?1
The British Isles have finally seem some big changes: most of Ireland was actually conquered by England, but the lords of the realm elected different rulers for each Kingdom and thus separated them. England has been steadily gnawing on Scotland as well, and though the current tributary situation is only temporary, Scotland's status as a power rivaling England is definitely gone.

https://i.imgur.com/st3y66I.jpg?1

Bavaria used to stand as Germany's equal as well, but now it has been reduced to a mere buffer state. Its holdings in the west have been mostly reclaimed by Lotharingia, which also grabbed some of the heartland on the Donau River, and the capital of München itself has integrated into the Germanic League.

https://i.imgur.com/C9y7OBq.jpg?1

Sorbia originally separated from Pomerania due to religious differences, but now it – together with Great Moravia – has all but eliminated the great Kingdom that once stretched from Lübeck to Ryazan. Great Moravia in particular has become a major power in the area after ensuring its hold over the Polish region.

https://i.imgur.com/QK9YWPy.jpg?1

The badly fragmented Arabia has been quite suddenly reunified by the Abbasids, who now control the entire peninsula. They still aren't exactly a threat to the Empire, of course, especially as they spend most of their time feuding with their fellow Muslims across the Red Sea.

https://i.imgur.com/G9ayepr.jpg?1

Christendom was quite concerned by the Mongols' sudden conversion to Judaism, but it seems that the abandonment of their paganic traditions opened the door for other religions as well. Many tribes all over the steppes have seen the light and embraced the Orthodox faith instead! The Khagan himself is still Jewish, though, and the Crusade will probably have to face his hordes.

https://i.imgur.com/cSsdjgT.jpg?1
Relatively uneventful for a 33-year chapter, but eh.

Is the plague always this anticlimactic? When it spread that wide I expected a lot, since I've heard stories of it emptying entire courts in other people's games, but then it just... disappeared, leaving practically no ill consequences. This is one of the many reasons CK2 needs a Vic-style population system. :smalltongue:

Philippos will probably die quite soon, but I decided this was a pretty good point to stop at.

P.S: Every dev diary makes me more excited for the next EU4 expansion... but if it means I, as a modder, have to manually assign every province to an estate or something, I'm going to punch a wall (and then do it anyway). In all likelihood I'll have to redo at least some of the miscellaneous preparations I've already made, thanks to the Region system if nothing else, but that's to be expected anyway.

[TheTeaMustFlow]

While I'm tempted to cry `Deus Vult` (or should that be Theós thélei these days?), given the various issues with it I say hold back. Continue the Reconquista, maybe.

[Flickerdart]

Don't think of it as a war for Georgia - think of it as a war to destroy the Mongols. Every one of the Khan's soldiers killed by a Hellene is encouragement for the oppressed to throw off the Mongol yoke. Win or lose, a crusade will shatter the Mongol army. Georgia can be given to a family member to avoid further squabbles over Germany.

Deus vult!

[Eldan]

Theós thélei.

It is up to the Patriarch to determine the will of god, and up to the Basileus to carry it out. If the heathens must be fought, they must be fought.

[Tentreto]

Georgia is not the heart of our enemy. We should join the crusade, but only to focus on the mongol armies. If we can damage the armies and territories of the blasphemers, we can damage our greatest rival, as well as continuing the will of God.
Therefore Deus Vult

[mythmonster2]

Why let good Christian men die against these heathen Mongols? There has been enough bloodshed between us and the steppe nomads, let us hold back.

[idhrendur]

I say hold back. Imagine if the crusade was won. That territory would have to be managed. Though those mountains would make for strong borders.

[GnomeGninjas]

hold back, remember what happened last time

[OrcusMcP]

Let us Hold Back. Is the Emperor to act at the whim of the church? Are our people to be subject to the desires of zealots?

[Valley]

Hold back. You will go to war with the Mongols sooner or later - but do so when you are ready, in a time and place of your choosing.

[ArcanErasmus]

(1st post on these forums so I hope I am doing it right. I have been following this AAR from when it was linked on /r/paradoxplaza.)

It would be too disappointing to see the other lords repeatedly struggle in their crusades. Deus Vult! You are, after all, the grand hero of Christianity.

[Rockphed]

(1st post on these forums so I hope I am doing it right. I have been following this AAR from when it was linked on /r/paradoxplaza.)

It would be too disappointing to see the other lords repeatedly struggle in their crusades. Deus Vult! You are, after all, the grand hero of Christianity.

Let us throw off the Hebraic Oppression of the Black Sea Coast. Let us go forth with our banners waving in the sun and crush our enemies. When the Mongols come, we will meet them on the field of battle and throw their dead to the dogs and the fishes. Arise, oh men of Athens! Arise and go forth in the cause of the Lord! Deus Vult!

[Yaktan]

Why should greek blood spill for useless land? Hold Back

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #24: The Curious Crusades (1329-1337)

7th of March, 1329

Join the Crusade: 5
Hold back: 7

The narrow majority of the Imperial advisors come to the consensus that participation in the Fourth Great Crusade is not in the Hellenic Empire's best interest, and the conservative Philippos II is inclined to agree. Their public silence is a direct refusal of the Ecumenical Patriarch's call to war. The Basileus doesn't make such decisions lightly, but the sheer loss of life that would likely ensue has been deemed too great in comparison to any potential gains.

Of course, many don't see it that way.

Among the populace and even the army itself, there is great controversy and debate over the subject. All parties are becoming increasingly agitated, including the rest of Christendom and the United Church. After all, by denying the Patriarch, many believe the Basileus has basically denied God himself, and history shows that no good can ever come to such rulers or their nations. It is also undeniable that in this attempt to protect his own citizens, the ruler has likely condemned thousands of other Christians to die brave but futile deaths on the battlefield. This is a fact he understands all too well.

Even worse, all of these doomed crusaders have to sail thousands of miles along Imperial sealanes – docking in several Imperial ports along the way – before passing directly through Constantinople itself. Though some locals try to show solidarity by flying the iconic red cross, angry soldiers respond by spitting at and reportedly even attacking them. There are rumors of them even defacing and burning the Imperial flag! The sheer universality of their rage makes it clear that it's being spread and encouraged by their superiors. Guards and lords all across the realm are ordered not to interfere and further escalate the awkward situation. The port of Palma, Mallorca, becomes particularly infamous as the first stop of these frustrated travelers entering the Mediterranean.

Despite all this, Hellenes will still end up dying for the cause, since many Imperial lords have decided to participate on their own. Indeed, for predictable geographical reasons, the first Christians troops to cross the border are from Imperial Azerbaijan. Those of the Doux of Edessa follow close behind. Italian Dukes are the first non-Hellenes to make landfall, and the pious warriors of the Patriarch himself are almost there as well. Troops are swarming from all over the Mediterranean and as far as England, but the Mongols have yet to intervene...

https://i.imgur.com/rW9kTu4.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/xqHKM09.jpg?1

Philippos seems to be almost intentionally ignoring the war, focusing even harder on his administrative duties. Perhaps he's just trying to suppress his own shame?

https://i.imgur.com/fXvZzlN.jpg?1

However, it is clearly eating at him, and by December he's lying on his deathbed. He passes away on the 17th, a week before Christmas Eve. Many take it as a sign of divine retribution for his negligence. Still, whatever one thinks of him, it is undeniable that his sheer determination and will to better himself ultimately made an useless lad into a skilled administrator with one of the most peaceful reigns in Hellenic history.

https://i.imgur.com/VGqBTmB.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/s7ejEzm.jpg?1

Long live Niketas Skleros, Basileus of the Hellenic Empire, King of Greece, Anatolia and Kurdistan, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika and Chalkidike, Sovereign Lord of Egypt, Azerbaijan, Tabaristan and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/Mq9R12j.jpg?1

He's only 13 years old though, so he'll have a regent for a few years. The position is taken by his Chancellor, a diplomat with, unfortunately, no talent for stewardship. Seriously – Niketas himself could probably do a better job.

https://i.imgur.com/LGY3aUK.jpg?1

Niketas had been raised by his father until now, but a tutor is required. Most of the traditional first choices are unfit for one reason or another – Queen Katarina is terribly ill with syphilis, hmm – so the 'Wise' Exarch of Syria steps up to the task. His missing leg has stopped him from leaving for Georgia quite yet.

https://i.imgur.com/MsPjkC6.jpg?1

To everyone's surprise, the Mongols remain completely quiet, as do all the other Jewish realms. Khantia is utterly unable to fend for itself and the Fourth Great Crusade is declared a success in the summer of 1331! The Duke of Ferrara is hailed as ”the first” to arrive and the one who accomplished most, so the bitter Patriarch declares that all of Georgia shall be granted directly to him, even if the Hellenic lords were more useful overall. This is probably for the best anyway.

https://i.imgur.com/raL5L2B.jpg?1

There is now a big patch of Italian territory right on the Hellenic border, not to say that wasn't already the case with Sicily and all. Besides, the two nations get along pretty well.

https://i.imgur.com/W2dz4ls.jpg?1

Of course, as fortunate as this victory was, it just reawakens the controversy about Philippos' decision, semantic as it may be: was it unnecessary for the Empire to join the war, in which case he made the right choice, or was it unnecessary for the Empire to not join the war, meaning he dishonored himself for nothing?

Niketas turns 16 in 1332 and ascends to the throne. He is a virtuous young man and passable at most tasks, but his kindness often makes him quite naive. The surprisingly successful Crusade has sparked an interest in the Church and the faith, which he is eager to study further.

https://i.imgur.com/iktaLjM.jpg?1

However, the Crusade may or may not have been a miracle after all: word arrives that the latest Khagan himself has followed his vassals and converted to the Orthodox faith, spreading it all across the steppes! This is arguably a triumph far greater than that in Georgia, assuming the Mongols stop changing their minds already...

https://i.imgur.com/uOd35nW.jpg?1

Unconditional conversions aside, Niketas isn't really sure about the idea of people of different faiths getting along.

https://i.imgur.com/xWodL81.jpg?1

He decides to go on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and further consider his view on things. The trip is very eventful and he ends up being just further convinced of God's glory and the United Church's righteousness.

https://i.imgur.com/QCvG6Ft.jpg?1

However, he also realizes he must look for a wife: the current heir to the Empire, his sister's son, isn't even a Skleros! However, he is low on very good options: the reigning Queen of Sicily is about his age and quite charming, but he can't bring himself to marry his first cousin and there would be issues with her inheritance. The former also applies to both of her unmarried sisters.

https://i.imgur.com/FGVp6lq.jpg?1

He ultimately decides to continue his father's northern bonds by choosing the Princess of Lithuania (the Kingdom this time). She is a woman of the faith, and their personalities match quite well. Her knowledge of Greek may be straight from the Bible, but it's still more than most fresh Basilissas tend to know.

https://i.imgur.com/q4imIxw.jpg?1

Niketas' marital bliss is interrupted by the declaration of yet another Jihad against Carthage! It seems like a neverending struggle, but as a truly pious ruler, he must make up for his father's failure and fight for the faith!

https://i.imgur.com/dFGjm43.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/SyEZx3n.jpg?1

In his youthful zeal, the Basileus raises a massive army and decides to lead one division himself. Still-traumatized Palma is given the ”pleasure” of hosting somewhat less angry soldiers headed in the opposite direction than last time. Poor communication leads to a somewhat ill-advised landing right on some Muslim troops, but luckily the Empire already has sandals on the ground and receives reinforcements fast enough to annihilate the unsuspecting enemy.

https://i.imgur.com/tq5HPo2.jpg?1

Further coordination works more efficiently as a total of five divisions spread out to occupy coastal areas while the Carthaginians take care of stragglers.

https://i.imgur.com/ezVPOog.jpg?1

Meanwhile, Basilissa Roze gives birth to Alexandrios, sired by Niketas before his departure.

https://i.imgur.com/8TB3R19.jpg?1

However, she soon falls pregnant again, this time with a girl whom she names Pavlina. It is blatantly obvious that Pavlina must be a fruit of adultery, but no one wants to talk about it too openly. The Basileus won't be happy when he comes home...

https://i.imgur.com/VfRqpnk.jpg?1

The situation keeps getting worse... the Basilissa has absolutely no subtlety, nor self-control. The splendor of the court must have corrupted her innocent soul.

https://i.imgur.com/O3Er1jR.jpg?1

She just might be spared the Basileus' wrath, for after heading further inland he falls terribly ill. On the 26th of March 1337, after ruling for four years and spending most of them in Mauretania, Niketas dies in his pavilion and word is urgently sent to Athens. He didn't really have time to build a reputation, nor a legacy, but his commanders remember him as a competent if somewhat inexperienced leader. Those courtiers in the know are glad that at least his heir seems to be legitimate, even if the other children (which Niketas never even knew of) clearly aren't.

https://i.imgur.com/ZQHaGp7.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/wBfHTf3.jpg?1

Long live Alexandrios Skleros, Basileus of the Hellenic Empire, King of Greece, Anatolia and Kurdistan, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika and Chalkidike, Sovereign Lord of Egypt, Azerbaijan, Tabaristan and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/zuvOhHP.jpg?1
Well that was a silly chapter. Only 8 years, too...

The Orthodox faith sure is the true superblob of this game. I might go through some extra hoops to make it split up a bit more in EU4, assuming this situation remains.

[Flickerdart]

You can always give a boost to the Myaphisites and Nestorians. I forget - are they modeled in EUIV as separate?

[SilverLeaf167]

You can always give a boost to the Myaphisites and Nestorians. I forget - are they modeled in EUIV as separate?

There's just the catch-all Coptic faith in Ethiopia (and one province in Armenia), but in this game those areas have been almost completely converted to Islam and Orthodoxy respectively. The Monophysites are still there, but have no independent realms, though they might manage to break free at some point.

But don't worry, I think I've already come up with an interesting solution to my liking. :smallwink: Even better, preliminary testing implies it actually works for once...

[super dark33]

The jewish mongols are way too awesome to just throw away like that after all the trouble that occured to let them happen.

[ArcanErasmus]

The jewish mongols are way too awesome to just throw away like that after all the trouble that occured to let them happen.

I second this motion. Seeing a great big jewish horde bloc carry over to eu4 would be fantastic.

[TheTeaMustFlow]

Yes, I rather like how Judaism has been as big a bugbear to Christianity as Islam in this history - certainly makes a change.

Concerning your solution - Orthodox Reformation?

[SilverLeaf167]

Hey, I agree with y'all, but I'm not sure I want to just... cheat them back to Judaism. Nomads seem to change religions almost randomly anyway, so they might very well convert back in this remaining century... or even Hinduism or something, that'd be interesting too. I might end up giving such a massive realm some religious disunity though.

Besides, all other hordes and ex-hordes (except Khazaria) are still Jewish.


Yes, I rather like how Judaism has been as big a bugbear to Christianity as Islam in this history - certainly makes a change.

Concerning your solution - Orthodox Reformation?

Pfft, I added that to the mod basically right after I mended the Schism. What I did now is actually a new branch of the Reformation. :smallwink:

[TheTeaMustFlow]

Hey, I agree with y'all, but I'm not sure I want to just... cheat them back to Judaism. Nomads seem to change religions almost randomly anyway, so they might very well convert back in this remaining century... or even Hinduism or something, that'd be interesting too. I might end up giving such a massive realm some religious disunity though.

Besides, all other hordes and ex-hordes (except Khazaria) are still Jewish.



Pfft, I added that to the mod basically right after I mended the Schism. What I did now is actually a new branch of the Reformation. :smallwink:

Ooooh, Shiny. I'm really looking forward to this in EUIV - I've never got the hang of playing it, but it's a very nice game to watch.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #25: The Yelping Youth (1337-1361)

26th of March, 1337

Basileus Alexandrios is but a toddler, so the Hellenic Empire is in for a 13-year regency.

https://i.imgur.com/YM21ZFy.jpg?1

The Imperial Spymaster is named as his regent. Though good at his own job, even he isn't sure this is such a good idea. He isn't very good with publicity or politics and has been struggling with depression for a long time. There's a good chance he'll be replaced sooner or later.

https://i.imgur.com/iqZXEjz.jpg?1

Hoping to avoid unnecessary scandals, loyal elements at court make sure to hide Basilissa Roze's adultery and allow her to remain in Athens rather than abandon her three children.

https://i.imgur.com/MwaVRlK.jpg?1

The war against Mauretania is wrapped up quite neatly and quietly, but subversive vassals don't mind abusing the Basileus' age and the Regent's power to reduce the crown's legal authority.

https://i.imgur.com/bO7SuBQ.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/NvSiVvC.jpg?1

Years pass in fortunate silence. The Regent is eventually handed the additional task of tutoring Alexandrios. Roze, meanwhile, doesn't seem to have learned from her mistakes, given that she bears another bastard daughter! The Regent's contacts confirm that the father is none other than the Ecumenical Patriarch himself! What could Roze have seen in an old man like him? Power? A nifty hat?

https://i.imgur.com/EtEF4jb.jpg?1

Growing up in such an environment and in a Spymaster's care is clearly having an effect on Alexandrios, though the old man does recognize the issue and try to keep it in check, even if it makes him look like a hypocrite.

https://i.imgur.com/3e3w8au.jpg?1

However, he does end up with a rather zealous interest in religion instead.

https://i.imgur.com/ySqIR4A.jpg?1

The Council eventually gets tired of Roze's antics and marries her off to the Carthaginian crown prince.

https://i.imgur.com/Uz1Cqd2.jpg?1

At the age of 10, the Spymaster dies, so Alexandrios gets a new Regent and tutor. He's much more amiable and diplomatic, but judging from the general trend with regents, what passes for an educational system in the Empire seems to be a real failure when it comes to mathematics.

https://i.imgur.com/O0utxdG.jpg?1

He only lasts two years before being forcefully replaced with another, much more competent-seeming candidate.

https://i.imgur.com/lQofnLN.jpg?1

In 1650, Alexandrios finally turns 16. His variety of very different mentors and an unstable environment have given him a rather strange, perhaps even contradictory personality: he is humble and ambitionless, yet zealous and even cruel when it comes to his enemies, yet craven when confronted directly. Even then, he's a competent diplomat with a good grasp on the intrigue of the Empire, having quite literally grown into it.

https://i.imgur.com/dupKpZu.jpg?1

A wife is sought and discovered closer to home than usual: the lucky individual is the sister of the King of Bulgaria.

https://i.imgur.com/frygZ3a.jpg?1

Just half a year later the situation with Alexandrios' mother threatens to repeat itself: Emiliya's pregnancy is revealed while he's been away on a diplomatic visit for a few weeks. His spies discover that the child is the bastard of a minor Count from Anatolia! Meek as he may occasionally be, Alexandrios refuses to take such an insult sitting down and orders the man's arrest. He manages to elude the Phalanx and hide himself, leaving Alexandrios to seethe in impotent rage.

https://i.imgur.com/of3WXlF.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/ThgL89a.jpg?1

A divorce is arranged post-haste and he finds a new wife: Princess Konstantine of Croatia. Hopefully she'll last at least a year or two.

https://i.imgur.com/fkrtofb.jpg?1

Alexandrios keeps an eye out for trouble, sending spies after one ”suspicious” lord after another, but doesn't really catch anything big; not until he personally glimpses the same old Patriarch having an affair with his sister Simonis! At least she's not his own bastard, thank God (though her parentage is unknown...), but still! Alexandrios can not and will not conceal such indecency!

https://i.imgur.com/qFVLZYC.jpg?1

That Simonis really seems to get around, though... She's married off to a distant court to avoid embarrassing Alexandrios further.

https://i.imgur.com/W8toP6H.jpg?1

At least Alexandrios has no need to doubt his and Konstantine's daughter's legitimacy.

https://i.imgur.com/iTGZtQa.jpg?1

Philotheos is born two years later, finally giving the Hellenic throne a proper heir.

https://i.imgur.com/SRJ8K6J.jpg?1

A little brother arrives in three more years.

https://i.imgur.com/UhNEZsc.jpg?1

Having sat the throne for 11 years already, Alexandrios is happy to have had a peaceful and prosperous reign without even resorting to assassinations like he'd planned to. However, on the 14th of July 1361, Patriarch Antonios II – that womanizing dastard – suddenly declares the Fifth Great Crusade! The ”holy” land this time around is quite a strange choice: Khiva, that wasteland north of Persia.

https://i.imgur.com/5Mn9d3I.jpg?1

The traditionally Jewish region is in turmoil following the invasion of the Bayramalyids, who adhere to a form of Hinduism, and a simultaneous change of leadership in Bukhara as well. Cynics might call this an opportunistic grab for land and gold, since the Bayramalyids control a good chunk of the Silk Road, but the pious Alexandrios is happy to support his beloved faith, even if led by a lowly sinner such as Antonios! Theos thelei!

https://i.imgur.com/1nDq5qM.jpg?1
We must really be running low on good Crusade targets...

Relatively short and perhaps uneventful, but stay tuned for an extra story snippet this weekend!

Also, related to today's Dev Diary (https://forum.paradoxplaza.com/forum/index.php?threads/eu4-dev-diary-november-26th-2015.892682/): using the Random New World when we get to EU4 would be pretty neat, and I wish I could do so, but there's a number of issues:

It's likely to be very buggy at first
It's rather "high risk" for an AAR we can't just drop and restart if we happen to get a buggy/stupid RNW
Comparisons and parallels to the real world are a big part of the mega-campaign alt-history charm for me, and the RNW would remove a lot of those: instead of "oh look, Italy and Poland are invading New York" you'd get "France colonized Random Province at the nondescript tip of this Random Continent and fought Random Natives"

and perhaps most unavoidably

We certainly wouldn't be able to convert to Victoria 2.

It definitely looks cool and I'm sure to try it out in single player, but unfortunately it simply won't work here. :smallfrown:
Of course, Cossacks is still getting bought the minute it comes out.

[Tentreto]

So the patriarch is causing problems...possibly a target for some certain individuals...

It would be great to play in a different new world, but, as you say, we can't go the whole way.
Also I have never seen crusades scraping this far down the barrel, mine usually end at Jerusalem and Bulgaria.

[SilverLeaf167]

SPECIAL #8: The Khazar Diaspora (1361)

Within the Empire and even Europe at large, the words ”Jew” and ”Khazar” are almost interchangeable. Jews are assumed to be Khazars and Khazars are assumed to be Jews; though the former generalization is criticized by scholars and Hebrews alike, the latter really isn't too far off.

https://www.historynotes.info/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/khazan-khagar.png

History

Khazars first arrived within the modern-day Hellenic Empire en-masse during ”the Migration” when the area was conquered in 949 by the Baranjars, who brought many tribes with them and sent out an open invitation to everyone else. Constantinople and the Anatolian interior saw a particularly large wave of settlers, some of whom adopted the local way of life faster than others, who preferred to roam the land or just head back east.

Though Khazars were the ruling class, they were always the clear minority in most areas. Things could've gone far worse for the Greeks, whom the Khazars treated with relative fairness in order to maintain peace; the last Byzantine Emperors had been quite unpopular and the Eastern Orthodox Church was in a bad state as well, so most Greek lords submitted rather quickly and even converted to Judaism. Rather than aggravate their vassals, the Khazars preferred to conquer new land in the Balkans for their own use, displacing the local population in many areas. Khazar culture and blood mixed heavily with Greek in this era known as the ”Age of Prosperity” to Khazars and the ”Age of Trials” to Christians.

When the newborn nation of Greece began its rapid expansion in the 1030s, subjugated lords were forced to either return to Christianity, abdicate or die. Even Khazar nobles were given the chance to convert, though they and their peasant kin were still treated very harshly by the vengeful Greeks. In 1085, Kaisarios III of Greece presented an edict banishing all Jews from the realm. This edict would remain in effect for centuries to come, though it wasn't necessarily as effective as Kaisarios had hoped. Either way, it did force any Jewish communities to either remain underground or face harsh punishment.

By 1155 the Baranjar Empire had been broken apart and conquered piece by piece. As Orthodox influence surged across the West, Judaism continued to grow in the East, becoming firmly established in feudal realms such as Hungary, Khantia and Bukhara. It has been said that everything north of Persia and west of Moravia is Jewish territory. Even the Mongols' arrival did little to convert the Khazars, and eventually they ended up embracing Judaism themselves.


Within the Empire

Within the vast Hellenic Empire, Orthodox Christianity of the United Church is the only publicly accepted religion. Even with Kaisarios III's edict, Jews, Muslims or even (brr) Catholics aren't usually actively pursued, but any open practice of their faith is forbidden. Anyone charged with ownership of a forbidden holy book or other religious item can be sentenced to lashings or even imprisonment if there is reason to suspect organized heresy. Any attempts at missionary work are punishable by death, as is open resistance against Church authorities. Practically all government offices are restricted to Christians only.

In 1361 there are at least 100 000 Khazars living in the Empire, forming less than a percent of its population but mostly concentrated in certain areas. They are sometimes referred to as ”Qartalians” to separate them from those still in the khanates. From the Greeks' point of view it's bad enough that most Khazars stubbornly hold onto their faith, but there are historical and ethnic grudges as well, stemming from conflicts past and present. Though there's technically no legal discrimination against them specifically, they're still shunned and abused, and the anti-Jew laws affect most of them.

In cities with particularly large Khazar minorities, such as Constantinople and Ancyra, they usually end up getting segregated into separate districts known as skories. Though nobles with Khazar heritage aren't unheard of and Kisa Su was even appointed as King of Croatia, most Khazars aren't trusted with anything more complicated than manual labor. Due to religious restrictions set by Christianity, some ”lucky” Jews have managed to carve themselves a niche as bankers or moneychangers. Their operation is quietly allowed by the Church, but when push comes to shove, this ”proof of Judaism” is often used as a bargaining chip against them. Many other Khazars see them as traitors, so their search for a better life ends up bringing them scorn from every direction.

Some skories are more pleasant than others – the one in Constantinople is a thriving center of commerce and culture, for instance - but life there tends to be quite rough. Though there's no law mandating it, social pressure and poverty herd Khazars together quite effectively. Many of them turn to crime in order to survive. Soldiers usually have little interest in entering the mazelike slums, especially as Khazars tend to have a strong sense of unity and always help a tribesman in need, so a hapless rookie may end up being pulled into a doorway and disappearing without a trace. They are understandably bitter against the rest of the Empire and have little interest in integration at this point, and though some of them even pride themselves on petty rebellion against society, claims of them conspiring for the realm's downfall are probably exaggerated. Many turn to drink or smoking herbs to forget their misery.

Remnants from nomadic life, clans and tribes still have an important role: most Khazars can track their family history to the Migration and beyond (or at least claim to) and hold it in high regard. Family bonds matter more than anything, surpassing all other relations and vows, but clans can easily end up feuding with each other, even for centuries in a few cases, over something like a simple insult or argument. These miniature civil wars are fought right under the noses of Greek society, hidden from view, at least until a defeated and exiled clan from some other city suddenly floods the streets.

The khanates of the steppes, chiefly Khazaria itself just to the north (which, by the way, was recently overrun by a Karaite coup after a brief stint with Orthodoxy), are more important as an ideal than as an actual safe haven. Qartalians have lived in the Empire for centuries and a return to their past lifestyle isn't really an option at this point, but ”the homeland” still represents both a romanticized memory and a wish for the future. Though they may pay attention to news traveling around the Empire, most don't really keep in any sort of contact with the khanates. The Khazarian port city of Kaffa, however, represents a bridge of sorts between these two worlds, and if someone gets desperate enough to actually leave the country, that's usually their first choice.


Judaism and other Jews

Though by far the most numerous, the Khazars are by no means the only or ”original” Jews: ethnic Hebrews scattered across Europe and the Levant claim the hordes aren't even true Jews, for their faith involves aggressive conversion among other things and is very distorted compared to that of the Israelites. The Torah and Talmud may have served as a starting point when the first Khazars decided to convert in the 8th century, but intentionally or not they have been misinterpreted to a huge extent.

Judaism has also separated into multiple branches among the Khazars: Karaites denounce the Talmud as completely manmade and emphasize the Torah as the only true scripture. Samaritans agree, but then add some more seemingly semantic differences. Qartalians are predominantly Rabbinics, which is the ”original” sect of Khazar Judaism, but has seen a great decline in the steppes.

Khazars are only a very notable minority in Anatolia, Greece and Bulgaria. As one goes further west or south, there are barely any Khazar Jews (or ”Khazarites” as some prefer to call them) and Hebrew Jews become much more prevalent. Though the Hebrews always been treated badly from time to time, they've also caught the blame for a lot of the Khazars' actions, widening the deep rift and grudge between the two groups. Especially the spectacular failure of the Third Great Crusade brought a massive amount of rage down on the innocent Israelites. Unlike Greece, most other Christian nations have never really been attacked or otherwise threatened by the Jews, but they've still been demonized and labeled as universal enemies of the United Church; indeed, their distance from the reality of the situation and the relatively low number of Jews may have led many Western states to treat them far worse than the Empire ever could.


Trivia!
Outsiders may sometimes have trouble separating them, but Greeks claim they can always recognize Qartalians at a glance.
Qartalians mostly speak Greek, though for practical reasons Khazar has replaced Hebrew as the main language for their private worship.
There are a few Qartalian settlements in the deserts and mountains of the Empire that are almost completely isolated from the rest of the realm and thus live in relative peace.
Qartalians are conscripted just like everyone else, but not allowed to become officers, join the Phalanx or participate in Crusades.
Though their activities are usually more benign than others might assume, there certainly are secret Jewish societies in the Empire.
Ancient throat-singing traditions are still well and alive in Qartalian communities, which people living near a skoria may or may not appreciate.
Due to the ban on written copies of the Torah, its contents tend to get passed on from person to person as oral tradition. This transmission has not been without its fair share of mistakes.
Through both misunderstanding and propaganda, many associate the term "Judaism" with Judas rather than the original Judah, emphasizing the Khazars' perceived duplicity.
I tried to write a short story as usual, but it felt so clunky I just decided to do an infodump. Exposition's what I was really after, anyway. All these snippets have served the ultimate purpose of giving some internal glimpse of the Empire's workings.

I don't know how much people like this kind of, uh, alternate history lore, but I sure do, so screw the audience! Seriously though, tell me your opinion for the future. I'll still try to do proper stories whenever I get a good idea, of course. Also ask if you 're curious about some detail I neglected to mention! (pfft, I wish)

It wasn't my intention from the start, but I kinda like how the Khazars basically ended up becoming Romani/Jew hybrids. It all added up organically considering their background and such.

I also realized I'd practically forgotten that normal Jews still exist in this world, so I tried to address that too. :smalltongue:

[IthilanorStPete]

I love these little interludes, especially sociohistorical ones like this; they add a lot of texture to the world. One note, though - "gypsy" is often considered a slur, though more so in Europe than in the US. Probably best to describe them as itinerant/nomadic people.

[SilverLeaf167]

I love these little interludes, especially sociohistorical ones like this; they add a lot of texture to the world. One note, though - "gypsy" is often considered a slur, though more so in Europe than in the US. Probably best to describe them as itinerant/nomadic people.

Well, glad you like 'em!

I actually thought about that for a while: the more appropriate "Romani" is what we call them in Finland anyway, and the first word that comes to my mind. While I knew it's kind of iffy, I thought "gypsy" was alright in a historical context, especially when specifically referring to their nomadic role in medieval society, though I suppose I shouldn't use that as an excuse for slurs. Not trying to make a statement or anything, so I'll probably change it.

[Rockphed]

Heh, I love the alternate historical analyses. They provide a glimpse into what sort of world we are creating. I look forward to seeing what you pop out as the starting point for the world in EU4.

[ArcanErasmus]

I really enjoyed that "infodump". I realized how well written it was when I caught myself getting a bit upset at the "author's bias", mentally comparing it to scholarly articles. It actually made me feel sorry for the poor minorities that get rather subjugated in a lot of my (mainly EU4) campaigns.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #26: The Calmed Conqueror (1361-1402)

23rd of July, 1361

The Fifth Great Crusade begins and Alexandrios is among the first to raise his banners and ride toward the east, soon joined by many other Hellenic lords. Outside the Empire only Scotland and a couple English dukes have declared their intention to join, but the war might well be over by the time they reach Khiva.

https://i.imgur.com/3hANAkn.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/IjrNIQI.jpg?1

The Hindu Shah has quite a few men, but surely nowhere near enough to stop the Hellenic advance.

https://i.imgur.com/7cqqtME.jpg?1

Even troops from the Empire's eastern parts take almost a year to finally reach the border, but when they do march over it, the enemy vanguard is vanquished with ease. The Greeks don't have much experience of these Hindus, but they seem to be just as pathetic as the Muslims.

https://i.imgur.com/iqBoCG7.jpg?1

The war is indeed quite simple and effortless: the Shah offers meager resistance as his armies are slain and holdings occupied. His capital Merv is seized in March 1364 and he is forced to surrender.

https://i.imgur.com/f2VQsm6.jpg?1

The conquered territory, stretching all the way to the Himalayas, is annexed into the Empire. Its eastern holdings are really becoming quite unwieldy, and this latest addition happens to be teeming with Karaite Khazars. They're probably not in for a very good time.

https://i.imgur.com/C70Ej4u.jpg?1

Alexandrios 'the Great' really has no use for this land, but his ”efforts” in the war have earned him quite a bit of glory and support.

https://i.imgur.com/atBW7QJ.jpg?1

Though he had his doubts, the Patriarch ends up not causing another major scandal until his death a couple years later. He is succeeded by a much younger but seemingly more virtuous man.

https://i.imgur.com/jZiK9Dh.jpg?1

Indeed, Alexandrios himself seems to be losing his taste for intrigue after so many uneventful years. It has been replaced by an interest in hunting, which is what he spent most of his time in Khiva doing.

https://i.imgur.com/TY4cP4K.jpg?1

He wonders how to better connect this region of ”Transcaspia” to the rest of the realm. Ironically, the best way might be to conquer more: there is only a relatively narrow, mountainous passage and very short coastline. Conquering, say, Persia's disconnected holdings in the north would allow the Empire to use and dominate the southern half of the Caspian Sea.

https://i.imgur.com/YR0S5kg.jpg?1

In April of 1361 he sends his elite troops to invade the area. The Abbasids declare their support of Persia, but both Muslim nations seem to be quite preoccupied already and Alexandrios isn't too concerned.

https://i.imgur.com/9JMTRc9.jpg?1

After a few small bouts the Persians decide to just get it over with and let Alexandrios' men take the land. Occupying the steppes still takes a while, though. Official peace is made in June 1371. The area is made into the Exarchate of Transcaspia.

https://i.imgur.com/zrRU1VL.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Doz2USx.jpg?1

After returning to Athens, Alexandrios soon sets out again, blissfully unaware that he's definitely not the first Skleros to pursue the legendary White Stag, this time in the Holy Land.

https://i.imgur.com/lR21YBU.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/Ytw7AAf.jpg?1

He ends up running into another hunter after the same beast, but even though they join forces, the White Stag is splendid in its absence.

https://i.imgur.com/Vuu04S7.jpg?1

The Basileus gets home just in time to celebrate Philotheos' 16th birthday. The future monarch is brave, just and kind – his father's opposite in many ways – but it may all be a facade, for he's still notorious for his lying tongue. Nevertheless, he is a handsome young man who should make a good ruler one day.

https://i.imgur.com/DiZ8Wax.jpg?1

Alexandrios continues going on wild Stag hunts, but to no avail, until one day in Syria he becomes the first Skleros to personally confirm the beast's existence! However, cruel fate denies him this prey, allowing it to prance around as if taunting him before disappearing into the woods again. Alexandrios returns home with new hope, especially after learning that the legendary St Kaisarios was among those to pursue the Stag. If he were the one to slay it, wouldn't that prove him superior to this greatest Greek of all?

https://i.imgur.com/8qjOGPY.jpg?1

For the first time, the elective system of the Germanic League works as intended as the lords choose someone other than a Skleros as their Chancellor: Franz Hunfriding, Duke of Holstein, a very old but equally respected man. Perhaps his dynasty will turn the League's focus to the north?

https://i.imgur.com/fT43HiG.jpg?1

While hunting, Alexandrios comes across an ancient hut with an ancient woman who tries to sell him a magical potion. However, Alexandrios won't be swayed by such unholy temptations and almost feels like arresting the crone for sorcery. However, he has no interest in dragging her around the country, so he settles for calling her a spawn of the Devil and marching out triumphantly. Judging from Kaisarios' legend, this was probably a wise choice.

https://i.imgur.com/zn6Iozj.jpg?1

Transcaspia takes the ”Caspia” part of its name very seriously, independently exploiting a rebellion in Bukhara to push them off the Caspian Sea coast. This also gives the Empire a border with the Mongols; a frightening prospect, were they not currently Orthodox and surprisingly friendly.

https://i.imgur.com/OuNVwZk.jpg?1

Years pass in peace. Alexandrios' sons grow up and go their separate ways, ending up as Barons, Dukes or Brothers, except for Philotheos who remains in Athens. Alexandrios continues his regular hunting trips, still hoping to find the Stag that so closely eluded him. His loving wife Konstantine dies of illness, but he decides not to remarry at the age of 56.

Transcaspia continues its ambitious expansion, soon conquering even the capital city of Bukhara itself.

https://i.imgur.com/esm6XX7.jpg?1

Most of the Empire remains very peaceful for the next few decades; even the ubiquitous feudal wars seem to have calmed down slightly. Alexandrios the Great rules his realm strictly but wisely and spends his free time either socializing or hunting (ever more feebly). By the year 1400, at the age of 66, those years are finally starting to show themselves.

https://i.imgur.com/lnkWgl9.jpg?1

He sleeps away peacefully a couple years later, on the 15th of May, 1402. He was worthy of his title, overcoming his weaknesses and learning to keep his bad habits in check while single-handedly enabling the conquest and conversion of Central Asia. He never ended up finding that White Stag, but he sure did try.

https://i.imgur.com/8Op0MmU.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/XIGSElf.jpg?1

Long live Philotheos Skleros, Basileus of the Hellenic Empire, King of Greece, Anatolia and Kurdistan, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika and Chalkidike, Sovereign Lord of Egypt, Azerbaijan, Transcaspia and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/fapby7d.jpg?1
Silly Alex, nobody's better than Kaisarios. :smallwink:

And don't worry, we'll be getting rid of Transcaspia come EU4. I just wanted nicer borders after the Crusade.

Just 42 years to go! If you think I might be getting a little bored lately, you're not entirely wrong, but as you can see, I can't really do that much at this point and am really just giving the rest of the world time to change on its own. EU4 is more ”my game” anyway, and the conversion gives me a chance to kinda balance things out.

It will also be the first time I actually finish any game in one of these AARs! :smalltongue: Knock on wood and all that...

As a side note, Cossacks required me to redo some stuff but nothing seems to have broken too badly. The game can handle Estate assignment automatically, for instance.

[idhrendur]

It's exciting that you're getting near the conversion point. Also, I'm glad you made the right decision regarding the random new world feature. I'd have been torn by the fact I'd want to support that in the converter, and that it's now theoretically possible, and the fact that it'd be a LOT of work to do.

[Flickerdart]

Speaking of Random New World...I wonder if one of their new random New World events is "there is no New World and Columbus was right" or "there is no New World and Columbus sinks en route to India".

[Eldan]

I've tried it a few times, and that doesn't seem to be the case. It's always about the same size. That said, perhaps someone has made a mod.

Edit: yup, Columbus world.. Japan to the Azores is not that far.

[TheTeaMustFlow]

So Alexandrios the Great invaded the East? Hmm I say. Hmm.

[Eldan]

Bah. He's no proper Mégas.

[Tentreto]

Here's hoping that you catch the white stag before the end. It would be a fitting crossover point.

When we get to EU4, I'm going to be a bit intrigued, as I've never played it. How similar is it to CK2?

[Eldan]

Quite different. For one, you play a nation, not a person. Your monarch and his heir (or other government) consists of three stats and a dynasty name and doesn't really do anything after that. Those three stats are also provide your monarch points: diplomacy, administration and military, which are your basic currency for almost all actions: technological research, national ideas, stability, unrest, integrating territory, annexing vassals, interal conflict resolution, changing governments, etc. all cost some of those points.
Pretty much all interation that was between characters is now between nations.

[OrcusMcP]

They focus on different historiographies. CK2 is all about Great Man history, EU4 is about the move from Great Man to Enlightenment history, capping off with the birth of Nationalism and Imperialism. When we get to Vic2, it has a lot of emphasis on Whig Theory (politically) and Marxist history (economically).

[Flickerdart]

Eh, your ruler has more importance than just his Administration, Diplomacy, and Military scores:

Every time your ruler dies (for a hereditary system), you get a stability drop, which makes things cost more and bad things like revolts more likely to happen.
You can form royal marriages with countries to secure mutual non-aggression, angle personal unions, and generally butter them up.
Ruler legitimacy helps or harms your efforts to actually have a country, and woe to any who has a low-legitimacy heir...


But yes, the most important things are the ADM points mentioned above. Your ruler determines how many you get every month, and almost everything you do carries a points fee. For example, instead of parking your Marshal on a province to reduce revolt risk, you use 75 Military points on "harsh treatment" of dissidents.

[ArcanErasmus]

The Cossacks will certainly make the converted game better. I really hope they do some rethinking of fort Zone of Control before you convert. As a side note, you have mentioned doing custom work on the converter. According to people complaining on the forums/subreddit, the official ck2->eu4 converter has been broken since 1.13, but Paradox is working on it. Have you gotten it to work in 1.14? If so, does it look like there is any hope for a Random New World? (The last time someone asked The Cossacks wasn't out yet)

[OrcusMcP]

I remember that the big thing that prevented RNW in the converter before was whether Sunset Invasion was active, dunno if that's still true.

[SilverLeaf167]

The Cossacks will certainly make the converted game better. I really hope they do some rethinking of fort Zone of Control before you convert. As a side note, you have mentioned doing custom work on the converter. According to people complaining on the forums/subreddit, the official ck2->eu4 converter has been broken since 1.13, but Paradox is working on it. Have you gotten it to work in 1.14? If so, does it look like there is any hope for a Random New World? (The last time someone asked The Cossacks wasn't out yet)

I haven't so much edited the converter as done the entire thing by hand. It's been a lot of work, but I somehow enjoy it. I'm basically done with the countries and such, only waiting for the final province situation in 1444 and trying to fix some bugs. I've honestly never been all that satisfied with the converter, even when it worked, and this has given me a lot of modding practice anyway. It's not like I'm busy...

I discussed RNW in the notes a couple chapters back. TL;DR: Risk of bugs and definitely couldn't convert to Victoria afterwards.

[SilverLeaf167]

Chapter #27: The Haughty Huntsman (1402-1430)

20th of May, 1402

Basileus Philotheos might already be a man past his prime, his father having reigned for so long, and his skills may not be particularly outstanding, but he is a kind and just man. His wish is to rule the Empire to his best ability for as long as God wills it.

https://i.imgur.com/GT1LbA1.jpg?1

His wife Zoe, on the other hand, is almost abnormally charismatic and intelligent. Some even say she has memorized the entirety of the Holy Bible, and her readiness to quote it definitely supports this claim. Even then, her name is marred by rumors of adultery, though the Basileus isn't convinced. Somewhat paradoxically, he figures that everyone simply assumes that the Basilissa cheats since it's happened so many times in the past, so there's no reason to believe any of it.

https://i.imgur.com/K6IYojo.jpg?1

Their beloved daughter Konstantine, just as lovely as her mother, is happily married to the King of Finland and hopefully about to bear him an heir.

https://i.imgur.com/GULuwlP.jpg?1

Philotheos' own heir Stephanos is shaping up to be a just but perhaps naive ruler. Philotheos hopes to a leave the realm in a good state for him.

[missing a screenshot, apparently...]

Speaking of which, the lands acquired by Basileus Alexandrios are having some trouble with the predictably upset populace. Local troops are struggling, but the Imperial levies step in to easily take care of it.

https://i.imgur.com/YeUn4ZR.jpg?1

Personally, Philotheos is a man of peace with little interest in conquering areas that do nothing but add to the Empire's burdens. The Patriarchs on the other hand seem to like the idea of taking credit for spreading the good word. A Crusade for Hungary has been called in September 1404: that major pocket of Judaism right in the middle of Europe. Apart from endless border feuds with the Moravians, they've never really bothered the Christians too much, but it's not like that matters when it comes to questions of principle and faith.

https://i.imgur.com/FXjfKxG.jpg?1

Though Zoe is excited by the idea, Philotheos isn't going to join such a meaningless war. If someone else wants the land, they're welcome to try. It's about time for the rest of Christendom to start pulling its own weight.

https://i.imgur.com/RBJvjZq.jpg?2

Now, a Jihad on the other hand is something he can't just ignore. For now it's only the rantings of the disenfranchised Caliph, but if he actually gets support – from Andalusia, for example – León may be in danger once again.

https://i.imgur.com/sgseetP.jpg?2

Unsurprisingly, that's exactly what happens, so Philotheos must raise his banners as well.

https://i.imgur.com/VZp0mHn.jpg?2

A few months later, 70 000 Hellenes land in Iberia, half in León and half in Andalusia. The Umayyads are already rampaging across the Leonese heartland; León has made the wise choice of holding back its troops until help arrives.

https://i.imgur.com/tUvYXbt.jpg?2

Burgos becomes the site of the first and last major battle of the war.

https://i.imgur.com/YXU3Vpf.jpg?1

León is capable of holdings its own against the remaining stragglers.

https://i.imgur.com/vWJKR9t.jpg?1

From there on the it's nothing but a few years of siege warfare, the Muslims flailing ineffectively. The Caliph finally surrenders in 1408.

https://i.imgur.com/etWAe6a.jpg?1

Philotheos – or rather his troops, as he stayed at home – were successful in fending off the Jihad, but the Crusade wasn't very lucky either. Most of Christendom seemed to follow Philotheos' example: other than the King of Italy, only a few minor lords joined the effort and didn't score a single real victory in five years of war. King Gellert kept defeating and humiliating them until the Patriarch had to finally give up. The Sixth Great Crusade was the second one to fail, and oh what a failure it was; many expect this to mark the end of such wars.

https://i.imgur.com/QjbTDV4.jpg?1

Years pass. Inspired by his father, the aging Basileus continues the hunt for the White Stag, and even has an almost identical close encounter with the beast. He resolves to be the man to finally catch that elusive being.

https://i.imgur.com/J4AKDtL.jpg?1

In June 1417, a hunting trip to the outskirts of Jerusalem – the location a sign in itself - turns out to be the one. Following the peculiarly positioned shadow of a great tree, taking it for a sign from God, the 60-year-old Philotheos and his companions soon catch a glimpse of the White Stag. The animal sprints off and they follow. As if carried by divine wind, Philotheos leaves all the other riders to eat his dust and carries on alone. After what feels like hours, never letting the stag escape his sight, he finally corners it in a narrow valley. The fervid Basileus draws a special arrow, adorned with gold, made for this very occasion. However, when he draws it to his ear, he has an epiphany of sorts: what if he isn't meant to kill the Stag after all? What if this ancient hunt, started by St Kaisarios himself, was the goal in itself? What if the Stag is in fact a representative of God, and he will be damned for slaying it?

No, that's just silly. The Skleroi didn't come this far just for him to get all philosophical. The Stag is struck right between the eyes. The victory does feel somewhat empty, though.

https://i.imgur.com/V8MSKWm.jpg?1

Philotheos returns to his baffled men with his bounty in tow. It will receive a honorary position in the throne room.

Having made such a great name for himself, Philotheos 'the Holy' is happy to settle down and rule from Athens. The Stag must have blessed him with health and longevity, for he lives to 73 before dying in 1430, the oldest reigning Basileus yet. His feats brought him great favor, and he was a wise leader all the way to the end; public pressure persuaded the Church to declare him a saint, though his deeds were nothing in comparison to those of St Kaisarios or St Theophanes.

https://i.imgur.com/SFLBKiE.jpg?1

https://i.imgur.com/hf0tXsQ.jpg?1

Long live Stephanos Skleros, Basileus of the Hellenic Empire, King of Greece, Anatolia and Kurdistan, Doux of Athens and Thessalonika, Count of Atheniai, Hellas, Demetrias, Thessalia, Thessalonika and Chalkidike, Sovereign Lord of Egypt, Azerbaijan, Transcaspia and the Levant!

https://i.imgur.com/Rs4breb.jpg?1
Hey, we caught the Stag! Kind of anticlimactic, but who cares! Fun fact: there really was a St Philotheos (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Philotheos), but given the circumstances in Egypt, he quite definitely didn't exist in this timeline.

One chapter left! I almost considered rambling about all the reasons why I prefer EU4 over CK2, but decided not to, unless provoked/politely asked. :smalltongue:

I keep getting distracted by my mod... I'll just be playing either this game here or something completely different and suddenly remember ”oh right, I was supposed to add that thing” and then spend the next 30 minutes twiddling with it instead.

Speaking of which, my EU4 conversion has included a lot of unrelated stuff that I just felt like adding; small things that I either felt were missing from the base game or that helped tie it to this alternate storyline of ours. Nothing major, just little events and decisions and such. I realize that your picture of the game world isn't as complete as mine, but if you can think of anything nifty – specific or not – I'm open to any and all suggestions.

Also, Stephanos is itching for a fight, so do suggest something to fill the last chapter. Continuing the Reconquista is one pretty obvious (and already suggested) option.

[Rockphed]

Obviously you should truce-break your way through conquering all of Mauretania.

[TheTeaMustFlow]

Glorious Reconquista seems reasonable.

...Maybe attack them in Africa instead of Spain itself, would change things up a bit. Given how much time they spend there, it's a surprise the Imperial army hasn't just taken up residence in Spain by now.

I don't suppose you have any saves, especially from earlier in the campaign, that you'd be willing to give to the undeserving poor?

[OrcusMcP]

I want to see a sister Empire formed in Persia. :smallamused:

[SilverLeaf167]

Obviously you should truce-break your way through conquering all of Mauretania.

A base in Tangier might be nice, but I have no idea what to do with that much sand and Muslims. :smalltongue:


Glorious Reconquista seems reasonable.

...Maybe attack them in Africa instead of Spain itself, would change things up a bit. Given how much time they spend there, it's a surprise the Imperial army hasn't just taken up residence in Spain by now.

I don't suppose you have any saves, especially from earlier in the campaign, that you'd be willing to give to the undeserving poor?

That's another vote for Mauretania I suppose.
I still have almost every save from 1130 to this day, whaddaya want with 'em? :smallwink:


I want to see a sister Empire formed in Persia. :smallamused:

Expanding upon Transcaspia, eh? Persia is quite a wreck already, we'd be putting them out of their misery...

[ArcanErasmus]

I will "gently prod" you with a twist: what are all the things you prefer about CK2 over EU4?

[SilverLeaf167]

*gasp!*

I really like the amount of detail individual characters have. In EU4 they're quite literally just names and numbers with nothing else to attach to them; there aren't even almost any character-related events. The country as a whole is always in the spotlight in EU4, which I like, but it does lack some of the... personality. There's a reason all the wackiest stories are about CK2. I think I've done a passable job characterizing the rulers in my EU4 AARs, but even then I can only remember a few specifically, while I've got pretty vivid memories about multiple CK2 characters.
Related, drama. In EU4 you don't get/have to deal with adultery, treason, duels etc. and even if they're in an event, all they do is adjust a couple numbers.

Pagans. They're kinda underdeveloped, but I really like the way that Christianity isn't utterly dominant and there's a chance for pagans - who have a lot of interesting mechanics and opportunities - to reform and remain in the world. It's a shame that didn't happen in our game, though I thought we were kinda close with Suomenusko.

Radical twists. While most individual events in CK2 are pretty irrelevant, and most wars have very small stakes, there's always a chance for entire kingdoms (or even empires (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19674125&postcount=29)) to be conquered or inherited all at once. People convert to random religions, massive invasions come out of nowhere, elections go awry... Though EU4 has potential for big game-changers too, they're rarely this unpredictable. On the downside, this is one of the things that make a CK2 AAR hard to write (any big thing that happens might very well be reversed in a month), but on the whole it's a good thing. For instance, I see the Baranjar invasion as the defining moment of this AAR that radically shifted its direction, set it apart from most playthroughs and quite literally changed the world.
Related, very alternate history. In EU4 most nations are kinda set in stone and the same ones tend to dominate almost every game; in CK2 anything can happen.

Comedy, intentional or not. With no detailed characters, EU4 obviously lacks their interactions and all the silly hijinks/coincidences that may follow. Other than that, I think CK2 also has more comedic writing in general; in EU4 it's mostly limited to some snark in, say, event options.

Generally I'd say that even if I prefer EU4 mechanically, CK2 has a definite charm and nothing else I've ever played can compete with the depth of its character system. I thought I was stupidly attached to the fictional countries in my earlier AARs, but this one takes the cake and definitely sets a very interesting starting point. The Empire and its history are far more detailed than they ever could've been without this CK2 portion. Though there will obviously be some changes in this AAR's tone due to the differences between games, I hope I can maintain as much of it as I can... or improve it, compared to these latest chapters...

[TheTeaMustFlow]

I still have almost every save from 1130 to this day, whaddaya want with 'em? :smallwink:


Just seems like it'd be a fun world to play around in. Maybe see if I can engineer a catholic resurgence or something equally silly.

[SilverLeaf167]

Well, if you just give me a date (approximate or exact) I don't mind sharing. Just look through the AAR and pick a spot (or spots) you're interested in. Of course, depending on your choice I might also have to send over a couple modded files (for the Hellenic flag and such), but that shouldn't be a major problem.