[SS6.4 Hotseat] Caela Obscurior by Niccolo de Venezia

[Ejs_the_Just]

This AAR will be written from the view of a late middle age/early renaissance historian called Niccolo de Venezia on the previous centuries as played out in this hotseat: http://www.twcenter.net/forums/showthread.php?t=494127 (ss6.4 late era starting on turn 61)

His work, Caela Obscurior, Is a combination of his conclusions based on the historical documents he found on these conquests and kingdoms.

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Caela Obscurior
By Niccolo de Venezia

In this day and age, the Year of Our Lord 1484, we are relishing in a time of great advancement and art. They say that now we live in a time of peace, or at least you can call it peace compared to the Era of Darker Skies, for no time will truly have perfect peace. But in this era of achievement, culture, and knowledge, perhaps none of it could of been possible if it weren't for the achievements of the kingdoms during the Era of Darker Skies. They were the ones who laid the foundations for such greatness we live in now. The kingdoms who were victorious in that era give safety and freedom in these times. Thus it is only right to credit them as great countries who envisioned us. They were the ones who strived for a great civilization. So with that in mind, I shall write of that era and search for their records so that we may be able to determine why and how they were victorious.
Since I am a descendant of a merchant family and of noble blood, I am able to access many private libraries and travel is not of an expense. From Venezia I rode to Roma and searched many of the libraries and governmental offices there. The first thing I came upon Is a letter from a clerical servant working for the English embassy to Roma.

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The Preamble

We live without doubt in a dark age for the humanity.

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The certainties upon which our world was based on are all collapsing.
The main temporal Holy Roman Empire is being destroyed by the combined attacks of the Kingdoms of Denmark,France and Poland, with the Republic of Genoa
trying to inflict them the fatal blow. Soon there will be no more imperial crown.

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The spiritual power and authority of the Roman Church has been constantly undermined by scandals, the increasing corruption of the clergy and the fight with the HRE which in the end damaged both of them. Kings and common people lost respect for the Church.

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No one cares much any more. Popes are being slayed by the Normans of Sicily and the Genoese. Excommunication seems now to be an empty word..
No one cares any more about joining and participating to the Crusades.
Christendom lost its way, its unity and seems irreparably fading.

And while Muslim power seems finally having completely defeated Christian kingdoms in the Holy land, an even bigger thread seems on the verge of wipe them too: The Mongols.

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Those men on horses coming form the veery and unknown far east, are slowly but steadily wiping out the Kwarezm Empire. Those are not men to make deal with. They simply come, destroy ,conquer and kill as many as it please them in the process..
Those horders of unbleievably skilled warrioriors are approaching with their armies on the Russian steppes and the middle east. It seems their thirst of new conquest can't be satisfied, and their rulers believed they are destined to rule the whole world!

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The Priory of Sion

In this chaos, destruction and disorder a secret society seems to be responsible for pulling the threads of those barbarian acts: someone says this society is name the 'Priory of Sion'.

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http://www.mediabistro.com/fishbowll...al/supper.jpeg

The myth says that originally this society was founded in the Holy land by the Templars on the new founded abbey.

The secrets of the Templars

The purposes of this society are not completely clear, but few rumors spread among the people.
Those rumors say that those Templars found out secrets that if told, they revolutionize the concept of the world and religion as we all know.
They used those secret to blackmail the Roman Church and undermine its power. For some unknown reason, their main purpose it to keep humanity divided
fighting each other. That way no other major power could emerge and challenge them.

The Grand Master : the man behind the curtain..

This society is led by a Grand master, named by his followers with the code-name Jiub which seems to be an acronym for : 'Jesus is under ban'.
No one really knows his true identity, but the legend says that he knows all the rulers of the known world. He constantly works in persuading kings
and Sultans into fight between each others, using the infinite gold and resources that his order has at its disposal to corrupt their souls with the mirage of prizes and rewards if they comply to his evil requests.

He's certainly the main culprit for this chaos, and he'll do anything in his (immense) power to avoid that any ruler might emerge from this chaos and unify the world bringing again order and God under the roof of every home.
We desperately need in this era a new charismatic leader, capable of fighting at the same time both other rulers and the Grand Master ,breaking the wall of clouds in this dark era and bring the rays of the sun back to the people[/QUOTE]

I believe that it shows how uncertain even the people who were accepted into the courts of the nobles were about the future. They were able to hear their lords plans and apparently they were plans or great risk and danger. Many could see that the years ahead would be dark and corrupt ones.

[Ejs_the_Just]

I continued to search Roma for more documents and I came upon many, all the letters, journals and witness takes on the decisions of the rulers in the first 10 years. I found most of these documents in the Vatican, thanks to a Dominican who I became acquainted with some years ago. Below this note shall be my findings.

[StOuFf]

Annales - Santa Maria di Garegnano Milano:
Gregori Ferro - priest

An italian atheist merchant from Milan, a great-great-nephew of the former ruling king. was crowned to be king after a fatal assasination attempt on the whole ruling family. the king, his wife, his children, brothers and sisters were killed in two following nights. the nation of genoa was shocked but gladly this remote relatvie was found. I knew that there had to be a relative to the royal family somewhere in genoa. This relative was chosen to become king and lead the nation.

The new king of Genoa decided that it is time to stop the pope ruling italy, the italian people should be free again. the pope interferred in genoesian interrests, neglected our priests to become bishops and tried to dictate us. that is why genoa called to arms and conquered pisa, killing the hated pope. our troops are now marching against the last troops of the pope in italy in bologna, hopefully we can defeat them and bring peace back to italy.

In the north our generals succeded to make Nuremberg and Salzburg revolt against the german emperor, who is in close relation to the former pope. the revolts were supported by some of our troops and the germans were defeated. Non the less our revolt in Frankfurt was slain to the ground and the germans are starting to regroup an fight back.

In the west the king of france and our nation have agreed to a ceasefire and trade rights, the genoese troops were pulled out of the french lands. may our nations live in peace.

Many good soldiers died this season for the greater good, our economy was restructured and shall reach high profits in the following years. Genoa is seeking trade with noble nations all around the globe. It also seems that the new genoesian king is planning some sort of republic, but that might be just rumors.

[Tonno]

EDIT

[Ejs_the_Just]

Record written from a Byzantine scribe.

At his fourty anniversary, Basileus Livanios realises that none of the things he promised his father in his dying moments were acomplished.
The former roman territories are still in enemies hands. Even Greece, our homeland is controled by Venice and Hungary.

He takes Isaias Laskaris on side and told him his plan. The old general agrees and the next morning leaves to fulfill his quest.

Operation Cyprus



Two weeks later, the 53 years old general lands in Cyprus. This island was part of the Empire many many years, until the Basileus offered it to the Crusaders. The Franks were crushed in the Holy Lands by the muslims and retreated here. But, they didnt received any help from the Kings of the West for many years and they were enjoying their stay there on roman expenditure.

They were considered useless by Livanios and the Roman Basileus sends an expedition to get rid of them.

Isaias Laskaris and the Crusader King, Badouini, meets outside Nicosia where the outnumbered crusader army was destroyed. Badoini himself was killed in the battle.

But, the locals took control of the castle, Nicosia and didnt wanted to bow to the Basileus. They want to remain independent.

The old general didnt wants to shed more blood but he doesent have a choice and puts the castle under siege.

[The Norseman]

The Kingdom of Norway


For more than two hundred years the Norwegians Vikings had travelled around the globe. Establishing cities and colonies as they travelled. They were fierce warriors from the far North, feared by the European countries. We conquered many cities and took the land we wanted. After a while our countrymen became tired of all the war and violence and decided to settle down and end the fighting.

As the Norwegians let their guard down and had been scattered around the world unorganized, the kings and leaders of Europe saw the chance to remove the Norwegian Vikings from their land once and for all. The Norwegians were attacked everywhere around Europe and few of them managed to fight back. All around the world our settlements and cities were lost. The Norwegian Vikings were driven back to their homeland here in Scandinavia. Our cities were burned, our families were killed or sent away.

As the Norwegians were returning home we became more civilized and our economy was growing, as our ships were the best to trade. They were the fastest and the strongest.



Our Scandinavian brother Denmark was the first one here in the far North to embrace Christianity. The Norwegians religions were many and different. We chose to embrace Christianity as an attempt to gather the entire kingdom. The next couple of years we lived peacefully.
The European Kings` ambitions grew and their lust for power and land. Among the Kings was the Danish King as well. The Kingdom of Denmark had the audacity to declare Scandinavia rightfully theirs. We refused to bow under. The Danish King declared war to The Kingdom of Norway.

We might be a small country but when a war comes, we all stand together and never give up. All around the country warriors were volunteering to fight in the war and all of them were recruited. Denmark may have a greater army than us, but our men are the strongest and the bravest warriors in all of Scandinavia.
I King Halstan the Malevolent



and my generals have mustered great armies to defend our homeland and make the Danes and the Kings of Europe who betrayed us pay for all the pain and suffering they have caused us. We began with small ambushes as we were outnumbered by the enemies, but now that we are strong enough, we will seize the chance and destroy The Kingdom of Denmark once and for all!

We besieged some of the Danes`s most valuable cities and castles. The trading city Skara, the Enormous castle Kalmar and the key point city Lund, which is a borderline between Denmark and the rest of Scandinavia. Our attack came swift and the enemies had little time to gather their army in time to strike back.


Mother Norway will not rest until justice has been served.
We have let our guard down once, believing peace was what we needed. It will not happen again. We will take back our lost land and destroy our enemies!




The Norwegian army marches once again with Christianity supporting us, this time we march united with a common goal, War.

[Ejs_the_Just]

From a Polish adviser under a minor lord.

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1280AD - Politics and Economics

It is the year 1280.. Poland has endured a very dark period over 40 years now.. decease.. war.. excommunication.. rebellion.. natural disasters.. Satan has had his influence on Poland far too long now, according to Duke Bernard Piast, the current regent and heir to the throne of Poland. Bernard has started to fight the economical recession in Poland.. and it is very likely that he will win.



The current King; King Wstydliwy is very old and has been very sick for two years now.. This man did not have a single year of peace.. he was always busy with solving the major problems Poland had.. the people however did not see this.. they look at this man and blame him for all the bad things which has happened to Poland in the last decade..



That is also the reason why the people of Poland adore Duke Bernard so much.. Since he became the regent, 2 years ago.. Poland has become stronger.. the problems remain.. but the morale of the people and the army is high.. Perhaps.. a little too high..



The younger son of the King is in charge of the armies of Poland, he is a true general and knows how to win a battle.. the people love him and because of that many Polish civilians have joined the army.. The Polish army is big.. and it is eager for battle..

[invicta]

Vivere est militare

Anno Domini 1280:

An irreconcilable war was occurring between the Kingdom of England and the one of Scotland.
For a while the Scottish forces seemed to have the upperhand when led by the charismatic leader William Wallace.
Their forces pushed up to York steadily occupying the region. With the power French Kingdom growing out of all proportion,
the Kingdom was seriously risking to being crushed .

It was then that King James Plantagenet, decided that the threat in the north had to be dealt once and for all.
He signed a pact of no-aggression of 20 years with France, securing so the borders on the south while dealing with the Scottish threat.
But before engaging the Kingdom of Scotland, King James decided that first he needed to stabilize his control on Ireland.
The English crown had control on the eastern part of the island since over a century. But the western part was still refusing to submit themselves to the King of England. This situation was stealing armies and resources from the other fronts where those would have been much needed.

So a strong army led by Gilbert Plantagenet, was sent to Galway to put an end once and for all to the Irish resistance.

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And while Gilbert was crushing the Irish, the old but expert General Laurence, was leading the main English armies to liberate York from the Scottish rule. With no capable General leading them, they were easily crushed.

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Despite the great victory achieved in York, King James knew that the Scottish matter could should not have been dealt only with the power of the arms.
Scottish mmight not have been strong enough to crush England, but they were certainly enough strong to easily resist to an English invasion.
After all there must have been a reason if the people leaving there have been able to keep their independence for centuries...
King James realized then, he needed to act smart. He needed to defeat them from the inside. He needed a masterplan.

The Masterplan:

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The daughter of his cousin Basilia, was secretely in love with the Scottish lord of the Hinghlands abid mac Cuilen.
King James so decided to play the card of love: he would have allowed and helped Basilia to marry him, in exchange for his betrayal to the King of Scotland.
He also promised him that he would have let him control the whole Scotland (in name of the English Crown) if the operation woudl have resulted successful.

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So Dabid changed side, with jelp of his personal followers and soldiers, and after hiring some mercenary among his people with the help of the English gold, he subdued the whole regions of the Highlands defeating the ones who remained loyal to King Ralph in 2 battles near Inverness and Aberdeen. On the latter, lost his life the son of the Scottish King..

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Caught by surprise on the north,the Scottish saw themselves pressed on south. After a little skirmish near Newcastle upon Tyne, the English forces set the main battle just on the east side of Edinburgh. King Ralph thought that like in the past, his pikemen could smash the English cavarly and archers..A mistaked which revealed to be fatal for his Kingdom.

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His whole army was decimated, and he lost the life in the attempt to escape.

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With his son dead and with so, no leaderiship left the Kingdom of Scotland was no more.

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From that moment, the Kingdom of England was finally in control of the whole British islands. Certainly still some strong resistance was in the area, but without any charismatic leadership to guide them Dabid's forces easily prevailed on them.

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A new time of peace and prosperity is now ahead of the English Crown, which never as now, has been so solid.

[Ejs_the_Just]

From a close lord to the Aragon king's family.

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As the saying goes, dear Tristan, "Even your grandfathers ancestors don't know when did the Moors come to Iberia, all they knew is that they had to be pushed out, or St. Peter's Basilica will be no more." so as it was their duty to be defenders of the Jesus and everything he left for us, it's your duty to do the same, so pick your baptismal name, put your nation colors and ride toward enemies of ture Faith.
Even when fell the great Jerusalem, and Kinghts of Temple scattered over the whole of Europe, war against infidles didn't stop in Iberia. So old orders came to aid us, And they where gladly accepted.


But what happened next will leave a big scar in Aragons history, and in mindset of young Princ.
In days of faintness of last king, Alfonso, Crown of Castile saw a chance to start it's plans to make a Empire of Spain united under Crown of Castile. They used Aragons sige of Cordoba and our expanding over Iberia as a excuse in front of Pope, "It is the gold that they see and seek there, not faith", to get the authorization for war vs us. In next year big part of Aragons noble family died by hands of Christians and Muslims. Althought the unfairness toward people of Aragon was grand, heir of Alfonso, Eusebio stayed loyal to the Roman church. His first year is marked by decisions that will lead to a series of wins vs both Castile and Moors.

But the sin of his wins is about to happen, as he set sails for Africa, and lets his young and only son to deal with Casitle. Young Princ Tristan, that is on the battlefield since the day he could run never saw a proper theological schools. Born and raised on the battlefield, with sense of chivlary and respect will crumble as he starts to seek revenge for what he lost from the hand of Castile and unfairness of the Church.

And so the first seson in new history of Aragon ends, a history that was same for hundreds of years will change as whole Iberia stands in front of young Princ.

[The Norseman]

The War for Scandinavia


The Norwegians rejoiced in the victories we had achieved in only one year, pushing the Danes back in to their land. We now control all the important cities in Sweden and Norway. The Fight for Scandinavia has been fought on Norwegian land too long, now we take the war to their land!

I realized that The Kingdom of Norway could not win this war alone. We needed recognition from the European Kingdoms, Allies and most important of all money to support our forces in war. My council and I have therefore decided to send out merchants, diplomats and priests to reconnect the communication with other nations, which we once had some decades ago and that was lost in the Viking expulsion.

The trading across Europe was once again blooming even though war raged across all of Europe. Our diplomats were sent around Europe and towards the end of the world looking for civilizations we could establish trade agreements with. Our merchants were great traders and bought whatever they meant was needed.



Just like a wise man once said ‘To carry out war three things are necessary: money, money and yet more money.’

As the war for Scandinavia continues, The Kingdom of Norway has sent out fleets to secure naval superiority in the North Sea, blocking The Kingdom of Denmark’s trade routes, their most valuable income.



A great battle was fought between The Kingdom of Norway and The Kingdom of Denmark. The attack came early in the morning and was made by The Kingdom of Norway. The Danish had no idea we would attack this soon, as we just a while ago had taken the city of Skara. The Norwegian army was preparing for an attack from the woods when suddenly a couple of Danish guards spotted us from their watchtowers. They alerted the army and rang the city bell, but it was too late, the Norwegian army was already charging the city like mad men.




The Danes had little time to organize themselves and were unprepared for an attack, but they somewhat managed to make formations at the moment of impact, when it really mattered. The Danish army was lucky they had superior horsemen, as they managed to hold off large parts of the Norwegian army before we made the attack. The Norwegians didnt have a high ground, but were still running faster than the Danish soldiers that were running down the hill to meet the attack.


As the armies crashed in to eachother you could hear the soldiers roar and make warcries. The sound could be heard from far away. The battle lasted for hours, both sides were exhausted, but the Norwegians knew that one minute could decide the outcome of the battle, one hour, the outcome of the campaign, and one day, the fate of the Kingdom.









Both sides suffered heavy casualties, but with bravery and skill, the Norwegian soldiers prevailed in battle. The Danish family member knew that the battle was a lost cause for the Danish army and the men were therefore ordered to retreat. This was a great battle in The War for Scandinavia and it could potentially have changed the war against the Danes. Roskilde was taken from the Danish and our forces now march against the city of Arhus, the Danish Capital.


Scandinavia is ours for the taken.

[Ejs_the_Just]

A part of a journal of a Russian serf overseer.

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[/url] РЮРИКОВИЧИ

It was 1280 year. Summer or even autumn. Nobody could tell exactly. Borivoi Novgorodskii could understand that it was not already summer by dirt outdoors. But how he could understand that dirt in Russia can be only in autumn? there is a proverb about different types of seasons in Russia"Just dirt,dirt freezes and dirt dries up." it was already "Just Dirt"

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Borivoi was the only legal son of Rositslav(son of Vsevolod-Big-Nest). He was just 14 years old,that proves that his father was a real Russian Bear. To make a child in 70 is not an easy task. Rostislav like his father Vsevolod had lots of children. In total it lead to Civil war between Ryuriki-Novgorodskii and Ryuriki-Kievskie.

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But Borrivoi was far from war.He was hunting with his boyars friends on the Oka river, near Solotca Abbey on Rostislav's land. Today Borrivoi(his father had to drink a lot, before giving his son this name, cos i have neve heard about this before) wanted to go to Vladimir forest and hunt there for rabbits...

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...but one thing changed his plans. On his table was the letter written by his father. It was really strange, because his father had never paid attention before on his young and the only son of blue bloods.

From: Rostislav Duke of Yaroslavl and Ryazan, Right Hand of Russian Tsar Mstislav
To: Borivoi Novgorodskii

Hi my dear son. How are you? How is your mother?i wanted to see you myself, but my health is too bed, so i decided to stay in Yaroslavl. but lets stop our private topics. There are some details you should know as the 5th contender on the Russian throne? why Russian and not Novgorodian or Yaroslavlian? Because soon Russia will be united by one Tsar as there was before Vsevolod and his Kiev bastards. Bryansk took our side after we defeated Kiev army

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Our armies sieged Pereyaslavl. We don't exactly know what's happened with Vladimir, Duke of Kiev. He could escape to the Crimea. But anyway he is my brother, too ambitious, but my brother. Hope his death will be easy.Your first cousin Radoneg Novgorodskii left Moscow to help his btother Mstislav.

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Mstislav himself stands near Kiev. His first fast attack failed and he is waiting for troops from Smolensk and Novgorod. His camp is on the other side of Dnepr. I hope i will be forced next season.

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I'm sure you want to take part in this war, my son, but you are too young. First of all you have to finish your military education in Ryazan. I'm sure you will be a prefect commander, like Mstislav or even Svyatoslav-your grand-grand-grand father. good luck my son. Wish to see you before my death.

In an hour lonely horseman left Solotcha abbey... His way was to Ryazan, famous russian stronghold...

[Ejs_the_Just]

A letter from a French merchant in Geona to his family.

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War is waging all over italy, the death of the opressing pope brought bloodshed to a civilized nation. Hopefully peace and wealth can soon be established, but for now the bloodshed will continue .....

Servant: "My King! my King!!!"
King: "Why is he screaming, what is frightening thee?"
Servant:"We received word that the Emperors troops are besieging Salzburg and rebel troops of the former pope are heading towards us! We have to prepare!"
King:" This are no good news, send for our marshalls they should raise an army of volunteers. I will strike them myself when they have arrived and have laid siege to our great city. Send also for my brothers in the cold north. It is obligatory that Frankfurt is a part of our nation and Salzburg has to be defended at all costs. Tell them I will soon send reeinforcements to the norther front. AND NOW HURRY!"
Servant:" Yes my Lord!"

The new king of genoa is facing a lot of problems, will he be strong enough to deal with all of them?
The king dreams of a unified italy which lifes in peace, harmony and prosperity. Till then many brave soldiers will have to die and decisions will have to be made.

A new pope is not yet crowned in rome, a bishop of the holy roman emperor claimed the title to be pope. The uneducated barbarians in the north do really think they have the right to establish a new catholic rule. Italians will not tolerate this arrogance and we will not rest until a new italian pope is promoted.

[Ejs_the_Just]

From a Aragonese castle priest to his parents in Italy.

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Althought the Aragons Crow is still being attacked by many nations and trying to deny it's right of existence , now includeing our long friends France. "King Eusebio is something that is worth dieing for, his words are great and strong, his authority is beyond anything a regular nobelman can show". "He is the Logos"- said thoes of a little weaker faith.
Why so much talk about his words. In this days of misfortune for people of Aragon, King Eusebio has risen something in souls of his follewers, that they are ready to follow him anywhere. The battle for Melilla is pure evidence of that. Although heavily outnumbered, 3:1 ratio, by Moors Eusebio won the field battle and lost 1/3 of his army. But that is something he used to rais the spirits of his men: "devote yourselves to conquer the castle in the name of thoes who fell on the field." Encouraged by King his fellow soliders marched for the rest of the day, claimed the walls of Melilla and later that night they taken the inner parts of castle.

Eusebio sent message to his son Tristan, but he didn't know that he was claiming Toled at the time, and to the Pope him self of this great success of People of Aragon.

Meanwhile in Iberia.
Tristan is set in comand and representer of law, by Eusebio. Being pressed by France while he has to think about his campaing against unfaithful, that is much for a young princ. So he asked for help thoes that are here before him, Knights of Montesa, and the only person that his father is beholed to, the Pope him self. As Montesa has a chapter house in Zaragoza, they didn't allowe that city falles in hands of Antipope of France. Pope agreed on that. But the young princ with personal losses that where made by Catholics is about to make a decision of his life; and with that, the decision of life for Aragon.
Young, but not stupid. He sees how much the Pope trust his father and his nation, he knows he can use that later. But by constant attacks from other nations Pope is in danger, and with that Tristans plans as well. So he gifted Palma to the Pope, "Small gift for Great life"-Tristan, that Pope could hide him self in case of any new wars.

Eusebio will be happy to hear this and he will be proud on Tristan for this acts, but He or Pope don't know what young Princ has in mind for Leon and Pope him self.

[The Norseman]

A New Era


The Kingdom of Norway has seized the city of Arhus and to our surprise, the people of Denmark were welcoming us in to the city. We later found out that the governor in the city had been a malevolent leader and a greedy man. The citizens were rejoicing as Scandinavia has finally become united under the banner of The Kingdom of Norway.

As the war continues, the Norwegian cities are flourishing and the Scandinavian cities are happy with their new leaders. The Norwegian Kingdom is expanding towards one of the strongest strongholds in Europe, The city of Hamburg.



As our forces head further in to Europe, we are continuously meeting the elite soldiers of Europe. Skilled with sword, bow and available for hire. We decided to mix them in to our army, where they could learn and teach each other their skills in swordfighting.



Our relation with the Pope has decreased as a result of our war with The Kingdom of Denmark even though we were simply defending our people and land. Having the support of the church is vital to our Kingdom. Churches and abbeys are being built all over Scandinavia as an attempt to please the Pope. We have begun to build the great Church of Nidarosdomen.




The Holy Roman Empire is struggling to fight back against the other European nations and more and more kings are deciding to join the war and secure some land in the heart of Europe. We however have decided to remain neutral in this war, as it has nothing to do with us. We hold no grudges against The Holy Roman Empire. As we watch the European Kingdoms fade away we realize that we have to establish our borders, secure them and create watchtowers.

[Ejs_the_Just]

More from Russia.

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Русское Царство (1282 год от р.х.)



Knyaz Mstislav was sitting in his tent. With the bottle of home brew in his hands. He did not care that it was just midnight. He only cared about taking Kiev... it was already 2nd year of Kiev's besiegement. Two assaults with using spies and mongol rocket launchers failed. May be Mstislav declared himself as a Russian Tsar too early? there was still strong Kiev's and Crimea's resistance. But Mstislav did not unyvl. Vladimir Yaroslavich was found and immediately killed on Ukraine. Good news. Now Mstislav did not feel himself like a piece of . Soon Kiev's resistance will fall and all Kiev Rus territories will be united.

One week ago troops under the command of Volodar(Mstislav's cosin) joined the military camp.Towers ladders and rams are ready. Ukrainians can only pray now... as Mstislav promised he wouldn't leave any one boyar alive. but he won't touch ordinary people... he will try...

I found a short book from a Polish monk about the Polish Alliance, Although it is small, it greatly describes this time

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1283 AD - Battle of Buxtehude

It is the year 1283 AD and the Polish Commander of the Western Polish army

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receives word that our allied brothers, the Norwegians will attempt a massive attack on the remaining Danish forces in the Hamburg region.
The Danish have been a plague to the people of Poland and Scandinavia for many years, thanks to the great commanding skills of Prince Ulfhedin of Norway

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the Danish Kingdom has been weakened in a sufficient way, Commander Borkowicz realised that this is the main chance to take out the Danish King for once and for all and at the same time help our brothers in Norway and make sure they will never suffer of Danish attacks ever again.

And so Commander Borkowicz commanded his army to march straigth to Hamburg where he could meet the Norwegian armies and fight the Battle of Hamburg together, like brothers in arms.

Sadly thing do not always go as planned..

When Borkowicz's his army reached a small village known as Buxtehude..

Spoiler for Buxtehude: 

everything went wrong.. suddenly the Polish army was being attacked from all sides! The Danish warriors charged down the hills, they came from the trees and from the houses.. out of nowhere it was one big chaos..







After an hour of fighting the Danish attackers were defeated, those who ran where caught and executed.. Victory had been achieved! At least.. that's what they thought..

Commander Borkowicz however knew something was wrong.. What was this Danish army doing here? Weren't they supposed to be defending Hamburg? What was the Danish King up to.. Did he have a plan? Was this the shadow before the storm.. perhaps.. a larger army will ambush us very soon..



At the very moment Commander Borkowicz thought of this he heard a loud horn.. The sound of the Danes..



A much greater Danish army appeared from the northeast marching in a very steady pace towards the tired Polish army.. Commander Borkowicz did not hesitate, he imminently commanded his men to form ranks and prepare for battle.



Commander Borkowicz told his men to not be afraid.. "do not hesitate" he said, "these Danish will not hesitate to rape and kill your wives and daughters.. men of Poland.. be strong!! Men of Poland will you FIGHT??"



And at that moment the entire Polish army stormed at the Danish foes who were utterly surprised by the fierceness of the Polish! And so the battle of Buxtehude continued..







After 7 hours the Battle of Buxtehude was over.. The Polish Commander Borkowicz proved himself to be a worthy commander. The superior (in numbers) Danish army had been defeated. The village of Buxtehude was burning.. the corpses of est. 10.000 Danish and Polish soldiers lay scattered over the battlefield.. 2000 Danish soldiers captured in battle were executed.
And then.. between the dead lay a man.. It was the King of Denmark. This was most surprising to the Polish Commander, for the Banner of the King had not been seen during the battle.. After a closer inspection a journal was found, property of the Danish King.. it explained the entire Danish defensive battle plan of the defence of Hamburg. Apparently the Danish King ordered his son to lead half of the army to defend the bridge north of Hamburg and delay the Norwegian advance while the other half under command of the King himself would march towards Magdeburg, according to the journal of the King.. Magdeburg was an independent county.. He saw it as an easy target... Poor Danish King did not know that the Polish had conquered Magdeburg a few months before.. This mistake lead to his own death..

Commander Borkowicz had a rest for 1 day before he ordered his army to advance to Hamburg.. He did not know what to expect.. would the Prince his army be there?



When Commander Borkowicz and his army approached the city, it was clear that there was almost no garrison.. Seeing this Borkowicz threatend the city counsil of Hamburg to open the gates.. with penalty of extermination..



And so the city of Hamburg surrendered to the Polish forces in the year 1283AD.. Hamburg was in control of Poland and the Kingdom of Denmark was no more.. only a small Danish army under command of a weak heir to the Danish throne remains.. but he does not form a threat at all..




1283AD - Krakow

It has been 4 years since Duke Bernard Piast came in control of the Polish Kingdom, he is not a man of quick decisions nor does he like to rush.. The financial situation in Poland is doing good and for the past few years Bernard ordered his brother to form an army worthy of the Polish Kingdom.. and so it has been done.. The Polish Army is finished and ready to conquer the world!!
But.. is that really what Duke Bernard wants? The answer is no.



What Duke Bernard really wants is a Poland worthy of doing great things.. He wants a strong Poland but not a Poland which core is War.. He does not want war.. but he is a very smart man though.. he knows that in times like these.. war can happen at any moment.. and so the safety of Poland is priority number 1. The armies of Poland consisted of Elite units are ready to take on any foe.. but only if necessary..

Spoiler for THE ARMY OF POLAND: 

Poland and Norway have formed the great Sollide Alliance.. People should look at us.. and fear us.. but admire us at the same time.. for we are great nations who do not wish world dominance.. we merely wants peace and good lives for our civilians.. We ask the other nations of Europe to enter the alliance with us.. Let the Sollide Alliance not just be an Alliance for Norway and Poland, let it be an Alliance for those who seek the same as we do..



Join us.

Proclamation from French heralds: A glorious day for France, as Burgos, Barcelona and Zaragoza are french lands now!

[Ejs_the_Just]

letter from a Byzantine politician in Constantinople to a friend on Crete:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Catholics, expecially the venetians and hungarians, began expanding into the former lands of a dying Roman Empire. They took the opportunity and in only 20 years gain control of the most part of balkans and the surrounding islands. And with it, innevitable, the people who lived there.
So, the orthodox serbs, greeks, slavs, valachs, bulgarians, albanians and others were forced to gave up their religion or their titles and lands will be seized. A part did and were catholicized but the majority didnt. They had to work as peasants now on the lands of nobles, their former lands..

The situation continued many years and the people began begging for help at the Roman Basileus. But, the Romans had their wars in Asia Minor against the rising power of the Seljuks. A two front war was very risky and their demans were ignored.

Nothing was about to change until Livanios Dukas, an ambitions and energic man, was crowned the new Basileus.
He understood that the Balkans were more important now than Asia and he quickly arranged a meeting with the Seljuks. Fortunately, the muslims were tired of the war too and a long term peace was established.

With the eastern front safe, he began making the plans.

Livanios needed brave and reliable men, so he promoted 3 knights from his own bodyguards to the rank of General.




The younger one, Photios Laskaris, was 18 and he was the younger bodyguard of the Basileus, chosen as one at only 16 years old. He was very talented and showed many potential in training, and he was related to Livanios.

His targets: Rhodos and Crete, controled by the venetian traders.




The second one Iustinianos Kamitzis. He was a former noble in Greece, near Athens when the hungarians conquered the city. He chose to stay loyal to his religion and expropriated of all his lands.
Then, one night , he manage to run and took the road of Constantinopole.

His obvious hints: Corinth and Athens. The castle was ruled by venetians and the former greek capital by the hungarians.

He was claming the title of Governor of Greece.



Marianos Ampelas sailed to Albania to defend Durazzo. The arrea was the most difficult one because the venetians will bring quickly armies from their fortereses: Ancona, in Italy and Ragusa, in Dalmatia.

He gave them a huge blow when Ragusa fall last season.

-----------------

Genoanese clerk recounting a court meeting:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

*general enters the kings hall, he kneels infront of the throne*

King of Genoa: Who are you noble Sir and what is your demand? And please there is no need to kneel while we are speaking.

General: Your highness, my name is Montrello, we have received a dispatch from the southern front.

King of Genoa: So what is the matter? Where we succesful?

General: In fact your humble servant General Ruggiero made it to reconquer the Castle of Tunis!

King of Genoa: That are great news! Is the defence in Africa established so our forces can not be repulsed again?

General: Yes my lord! The army and the fleet have merged to face the sicillian main army located in the south of tunis. We expect them to attack next season!

King of Genoa: Well then get yourself a few thousand florins of the treasury to send them reeinforcements!

General: As you command Sire. My Lord the pope also was relocated due to your orders. He left Bologna and reached Palma escorted by our fleet.

King of Genoa: That is good! So the old man cannot interfere in my decisions again. Are the venetians sending support against the sicillians?

General: No they are not, they are too busy fighting of the roman attacks from the east.

*the king raises and begins to move through the hall*

King of Genoa: Hmmm .... well, at least we benefit from the trade agreements.

*the kings brother enters the hall*

Brother: Sire we spotted some warriors from the north near hamburg. They seem friendly but we have not yet spoken to them. I suggest we send them a gift, a bit of our wine and italian food to please them.

King of Genoa: you are right, search for the finest specialities you find in our kitchen and send it up to them.

*brother noodes and is off*

King of Genoa: So is there anything else we should talk about, are there any other decisions to make?

General: No my Lord! The rest of your kingdom propers and lies peacfully. Except a small group of rebels near genoa but they will be dealt with in a few weeks. General Michael is on them.

King of Genoa: Well! I have a question. Do you think we can defeat the sicillians? And i really need you honest answer.

General: My Lord, the sicillians are a noble and brave people and the war will last for years as both nations are wealthy but if we manage to get the naval supremacy we have a good chance to defeat them or take them to neogiate peace.

*the king noodes and walks towards his naval advisors office*

An English lord's writing about foreign family relations:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Russian whore..

The Russians have a peculiar way to engage into war far kigdoms..
They make use of a weapon , that although old as human kind, was yet unused
in wars..at least as far as we know.. : whores.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

A Russian courtesan, imprisoned the heart of the ladykiller Gilbert.
Son of the old King Edmund and brother of the current king James,
he never shined for his military skills or his devotion to the Kingdom.
He rather , instead, preferred to spend his time in the northern of France
gambling and chasing women..

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Russian lady drove him so crazy, that he decided to serve the
Novgorodian Grand Duke.. This scandal could not be let be passed unpunished.
Although it was his brother, King James was expected to set an example on this
expisode, otherwise rebellion of the nobilty could become very likely.
So while Gilbert was banqueting with his followers nearby Caen, the English army
was sent to make justice of him.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

This pain brought into the royal family, will be avenged.
Novgorod will have to pay for his sins somehow..Our armies are
already marching to make justice of this felons.

[The Norseman]

The Kingdom of Norway is expanding, and so are its inhabitants. Our country has recruited so many soldiers that we are experiencing a minor economic recession. The Kingdom of Denmark is still not destroyed and they are now reduced to one last settlement, Hamburg. Our armies has been ordered to attack Hamburg in one last mass attack against Denmark, we will not rest until The Kingdom of Denmark is destroyed. The Norwegian army of more than ten thousand men strong, landed on the shores by Hamburg, overwhelming the Danish army sent to keep us away.



The Danish army was crushed, but we lost many men. The following night we had our priests pray for the dead soldiers and then we gave those who wanted a viking burial.



On our way to Hamburg we met our allied kingdom, The Kingdom of England. Our way was blocked, but our soldiers greeted the English soldiers and we held a feast in honor of our friendship.



Next year, we will take Hamburg by force and destroy The Kingdom of Denmark once and for all.

[Ejs_the_Just]

I found quite a few things on Aragon during this time. Seems to be war between France and Aragon, Norway and England watch attentively.

This was an interesting find, I acquired an Aragonese history book written by a Zaragoza monastery abbot for his history students. How it came to Rome I know not yet, perhaps a lords son took it, but then again what type of monastery would just let a priceless book like this go to Rome on what was probably a treacherous journey.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Seson 66.
6 sesons since the new age for Aragon.
2 sesons since the war vs France.

"In diplomacy they where rough, in acting they where fast, in takeing over our land they didn't think... Today we will be rough in this battle, we will be fast in blowing a deadly strike upon them, we will not think when they will beg for mercy"- The Sige of Burgos ended, and Tristan ordered the assault.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Why did the sige ended so fast, why didn't Tristan waited for more man to come? He knew his units where lightly armored then the heavy French knights and nobles

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

so he could not allowe any new Frenkish units reach Burgos. And Tristan had a plan. Well just a few days before the battle, great news reached our Princ, our spys reported that Frenkish Princ is not comeing to aid his man. His own soldiers that have took over the city last seson will be left behind. "Of course he didn't come, when he is not being watched by his own king how can u expect that he would watch over his man as well."- Said Tristan while makeing his plan that included this great news.
On the day of assault he ordered his own units, as well as the freshest reinforcements to stay behind the hills and in forests. "When Benhart horns the assault, we will slowly march out, and push towards the Burgos"-Tristan.
Benhart ordered the charge on the walls, many of young soldiers never reached the walls cuz of high and strong towers that where "pouring" arrowes on our man, that is when Tristan ordered the "walk" towards the walls. Suddnely a strong and loud sound was heared from the inside of the walls... French opened the gates and charged right out of their walls. They thought that the units from the forests where their Princ with reinforcemant, it was too late when their General ordered the retreat in the last ring and keep. Our untis where allready passing undure the strong gates, and no oil was pureing on them cuz of expensive French units standing right next to them.
They made a strong foothold in the center of the fort- some kind of "spear wall", and that is where Tristans master plan ended, with victory off course. He just put his well known Almughavares in front and his best knights in back; they did the rest.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

French, sooo densed in that small center with their heavy armor on them, had no chance. After two throws French started to throw away their arms and surrendered to our armys.
They where striped off they nice and shineing armor. Some where killed in the spot others where sent to Oran, where they will be sold to the Moors as salves.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Pope didn't agree on that move, he offered help in care of thoes soliders, while they don't accept God as thier true Lord. But Tristan just didn't care.
Some say that he had a devils laugh while reading Popes message, and that his killing of unarmed man made the moon blooded that night.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

What made this day even greater is that Zaragoza was recaptured from the hands of Antipope. Verry important day for the Montesa Knights. As that is their city. Maybe that is why they fought so well in the battle for Burgos, maybe are are truly successors of some great "will".

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Tristan didn't stop here, he ordered his man to keep marching, it's time to learn the French their message. His units set the march towards Pampalona.
While our King, Eusebio, sent diplomats to France. "It's time to seek peace."-Eusebio. But how much can u trust a King that rejected Pope. So he set the new order, soon he will see his son, in Sige of Pampalona.
______________________________________________________________
"Such a magnificent day for our Princ and so smart in his great tactics, but what where u thinking when he was merriing that princess of Norway"-Bernhart.

Althought it looks like that "newcomer" in our family cant bare children. Tristan just could not risist her. They made official marriage in front of Aragons Cardinal this seson. Did realy Tristan find a part of his lost soul?
Enigma; for know.
That means Norway entered alliance with Aragon,planed for sesons, but official just know. But that is the only nation that responded to our message for know. Maybe with this new victory, others will finaly think a little bit more about our nation.

Also here is a Aragonese response to Norwegian diplomatic talks and counter (that rpg should be below this one.)

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

We wellcome this act of our Norwegian allies. Right in time when the powerfull French are decaying in economy and dyeing in South front. Our king Eusebio hopes he will meat Noble king of Norway somewhere in France soon enoguh.

Oh great news reached King Eusebio. French King Reynaud died in Colgone.
That means that the new King is traped in Pampalona. So next seson it will be battle of Kings (Aragon against France). Of coures if French king wants to, die he will do that. Or France will reatreat and propose a peacfull offer.
Crown of Aragon is still open to negotiation.

Here is the English kings response to the Aragon/France situation.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

There's no doubt for the King of England , that this war was a foolish move from the King of France.
While we understand the fact that the French King didn't want to let the emerging power of the King of Aragon get too powerful by conquering the whole Iberia,
at the same time he should have used more the art of diplomacy to solve this complicate matter instead of taking advantage of his strong position.

Since I, King James of England care a lot about the balance among the kingdoms in Europe , I certainly can't remain stranger to this recent events.
So I'd like to act as intermediary in the attempt to bring peace again , before it's too late.
So here's the proposal:
1- Burgos will remain in the hands of France. Also Salamanca and Leon will end up under control of the Kingdom of France.
2- All the rest of Iberia and North Africa will become a zone of influence of the Aragonese Kingdom. France will have to lend 2 full-stack (led by his best generals) to Aragon in order to bring under control
as many regions as he can.
3- Antwerp and Cologne won't be given back to France. Also the King of France will give Groningen to Norway .
4-France will pay a tribute of 4.8k turns to Aragon to repair the damages of war caused to Aragon .
5-A NAP of 15 turns will be signed between the 3 powers.


Bear in mind that the powers interested in the conflict might very well refuse such terms. But then I'd be feel obliged to enter into the conflict one way or the other.
The King of England will ensure that all the signing kings would eventually respect the deal.

Signed
The King of England James Plantagenet

Aragons terms to England in response

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

"Foolish move, mah... it was a move set with arogance and ignorance..."-Princ Tristan while reading the proposal on peace terms.
Tristan maybe is set as a "law master" in Kingdom of Aragon, but it's the Eusebio that is crowned as a King of Aragon. While reading this terms he didn't like the idea that his people has to give their fathers land in order to achieve peace that was not provoked by themself.

"Dear King, James, of England althought I don't like your idea of large scale Protectorate upon west Europe, I am willing to greet this peace under few changes; one is Primary. U see if France rejects this offers, u realy can't step in if u don't want to see France destroyed. So what will u do, King of England, attacking Aragon and Norway realy won't make a balance in our region?"-Eusebio

1.Barcelona and Zaragoza will get and stay in hands of Crown of Aragon. Pampalona, Burgos and Leon can be handed over to France.- Grasions in Pampalona and Toulouse can't have large grassions.
2.U can't promise me Africa dear King, Sicily has influence in it as well. So keep it simple, all citys that are west of Oran can only be claimed in the name of God by Crown of Aragon. And one of the main resons why this war started was cuz France wanted to give their "help" in fighting Leon. We refuse any military help from France cuz of fear of sudden assassination of our King. So we accept the alternative, but with a small change. 4.8k for 12 turns
3.We support decision of our dear allys in arms, Norway.
4.Will be spent to repair destroyed churches and shared with familys that are victims of war
5. 15 Sesons NAP will do great.

Englands final reply

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Noble King of Aragon,

if the peace will be refused by France, then France will be left to his own destiny because of his refusal to compromise.
As unbiased mediator I partially accept your requests.
Barcelona and Zaragoza will remain in your hands, but then Salamanca will be left to France.
This way your powers, will match (at the end of the 15 NAP France will have 14 regions and Aragon 15) and be equal. Considering the payment France will be paying is a more than fair offer, and it will ensure the prosperity of all the parties.
The level of garrison in Tolouse and Pamplona is not important: we are all men of honor. But in the some unfortunate case that someone would betray the agreement, England will make sure with the force of his armies that the felon would pay for his crimes.

At last, I want to remind everybody, that other powers are watching this events. AFAIK, someone is interested to restore peace, either diplomatically or with the strength of the armies. Some other kingdom is waiting to get the chance to take advantage from your weaknesses.
So I'd like to have a confirmation that you all, accept the deal.

Aragons approval

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Under my new terms offcourse. I accept. (Counting in Salamanca[To France])

However when France hears of these terms, things seem to again fall back into tension, and war.

[The Norseman]

A New Era Begins

The cities in The Kingdom of Norway have prospered ever since we destroyed The Kingdom of Denmark and our scars have healed. Every Norwegian citizen remembers when we could only spend a little money on the few cities we had and how the people suffered from poverty, both the Nobles and the lower classes. After the Kingdom expanded The Norwegian cities and its people are now rich and it has become difficult spending all the money, and the Norwegian Council and the people have now speculated whether the Kingdom should expand further more or remain peaceful. A voting which included all of the citizens of Norway was held and the choice of peace prevailed.



A couple of months later our ally, The Kingdom of Aragon was attacked by the mighty French Empire. The Kingdom of Norway always holds their promises and we would not back down from a war even though we are a much less powerful country than France. A new voting was held and the choice of supporting The Kingdom of Aragon won with a landslide. All across our far stretched country people were told to join our mighty army if they could bear a sword or bow.


Seeing as our troops were disbanded, we had to wait before we could help our allies. The recruitment process went fast. Once again the Norwegian people were volunteering across all of Scandinavia, seeking to support their country in war. More than ten thousand men were recruited, nearly all of them were greatly experienced and they were equipped with the best body armor, swords, shields and bows we could give.


Our men were shipped across Northern Europe towards France to aid our Aragonese allies. The journey took several days and the fleets had to remain at sea for a while as we had to make sure every army were ready to fulfill their orders.



The attack came early morning and the French army was taken by surprise.






All across France cities were sieged and occupied. The cities were all taken in one massive attack ordered by The King.



The French could not withstand an army ten thousand men strong and they were forced to retreat towards Rheims and Paris seeking shelter and protection from the French soldiers.
All across France people were praying to God, all of them saying the same thing.





When a true ally of The Kingdom of Norway is attacked, we will fulfill our promises, always.
Do not think us weak, the Viking blood still runs through our veins and the old ways of war have not been forgotten, nor will they ever be.

[Ejs_the_Just]

France's reply to the treaty.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Salamanca isnt under french control, what are you talking about?
1. Barcelona, Zaragoza to Aragon.
2. Pamplona, Burgos to France.
3. Antwerp, Cologne, Groningen to France
4. 4k florins for 10 turns tribute to Aragon.
5. 2k florins for 10 turns tribute to Norway.
6. NAP with Aragon and Norway for 15 turns.

These are my terms, and they are not negotiable

England's reply to France

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

It means that Aragon will let you conquer Salamanca and Leon (and keeping Burgos and Pamplona), while you'll let Aragon conquer the rest of Iberia.
Your terms are not acceptable and you are on the verge of the collapse.
Norway has 3 full stacks on your lands or close to it. You have no hope to survive if you fight. You didn't yet understand that your defeat is inevitable,
and that only the diplomatic intervention of the Kingdom of England might save your realm.
If you accept the peace your kingdom will be strong as other realms in the area.

King of France,you acted as fool to start this war, don' be a fool twice now to refuse this extremely generous peace proposal.
This is the peace proposal:

1- Burgos will remain in the hands of France. Also Salamanca and Leon will end up under control of the Kingdom of France.
2- All the rest of Iberia and North Africa will become a zone of influence of the Aragonese Kingdom. France will have to lend 2 full-stack (led by his best generals) to Aragon in order to bring under control
as many regions as he can.
3- Antwerp and Cologne won't be given back to France. Also the King of France will give Groningen to Norway .
4-France will pay a tribute of 4.8k for 12 turns to Aragon to repair the damages of war caused to Aragon .
5-A NAP of 15 turns will be signed between the 3 powers.

If you don't wanna accept it, God is witness that I King James did everything in my power to avoid the suicide of the French King and his realm.

France doesnt agree: These terms are not acceptable. I am still waiting on a reply from Aragon and Norway.

Aragons reply

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

If your terms are not negotiable, then sir your people are doomed.

Letter to the King of France from the Polish Regent offering advice.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

King Hurin of France

Well I couldn't really reply if I'm not online, could I?

Before I could even read trough these letters you already called me the dirtiest king and send me an angry letter (pm) ! I had nothing to do with this war between Norway and your faction! Why blame me?

If there is someone who is very likely to be behind this all.. then I would like to take this opportunity to point at this so called peace keeper.. Mr.Balance (as I like to refer to him).. King Invicta Plantagenet of England, did you know he is also allied to Norway? Did you consider that option? On one hand King Invicta tells people to keep the balance.. yet you .. grow very very strong.. You have a Non attack pact with the English King.. this creates a dilemma for the English King.. why? Because he is a very chivalrous man.. well he really likes it when people look at him this way..

Now lets take a look at what happened.. Norway invades you.. it seems that he sailed all the way to your settlements in Belgium.. King Invicta is known as quite the military genius.. do you really think he would allow a foreign army so close to his capital? I don't think so.. not unless he knows about Norway's plans.. Norway conquers three regions of you in the north.. From the war reports it seems that you are quite weak in the north because you didn't expect an invasion there (because Norway is quite far and King Invicta almost never breaks his agreements.. But yet there is Norway and invades you from the north.. Then the English King pops up and claims he wants peace.. BUT you have to say goodbye to your northern regions.. they are to be property of Norway...

As an outsider in this conflict it seems pretty clear to me..

King Invicta feared a war with France before he could destroy these rebellious Scots.. so he makes a Non Attack Pact with your faction.. After a while he sees your growing very strong because you are winning the war against the Aragonese.. Seeing that King Invicta does not want to break his Non Attack pact with you.. he makes a deal with Norway.. Norway must invade you and in trade King Invicta would make sure he gets to keep the three regions in the north!

Result is that King Invicta has two grateful allies: Norway and Aragon.. Your faction is quite damaged and wont be much of a problem in future.. King Invicta will now build us his superior armies.. then most likely he will invade you somewhere in the future.. Seeing that Norway and Aragon are great supporters of England.. they join in... and Voilą! There you have it.. A powerful alliance.. King Invicta and his two puppets Norway and Aragon..

Last I would like to remember you that this is pure speculation of mine.. I wouldn't be surprised if King Invicta's master plan is far bigger and complication then this..

My only advice to you is.. Keep fighting.. The question is not IF England will invade you.. its only a question of when!

Hopefully you will now realise that I'm not the brain behind this attack on your faction..

Good luck

Yours sincerely,

The King of Poland
Regent King Bernard Piast

However the Polish Kings letter is seen by the French as the only "help" they will receive, adding french resentment to Poland.

Meanwhile the Byzantine Leader offers to act as a peacemaker, unfortunately this offer isn't really looked upon, due to all the ruckus the Polish King apparently made with his "advice" letter.