HRE NES II: Der Aufstieg

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Welcome to HRE NES! If you're new here and would like to join up, the following spaces are available:

Duchies: The Duchy of Swabia is currently open. Swabia is one of the founding German Duchies, with full rights at the Reichstag and occupying a key position at the heart of Europe.

Minor Powers: The County of Friesland is open. Friesland is a small region claimed by both Germany and Lotharingia; it's also currently occupied by the Vikings. Playing the Frisians will be difficult, but the little country has a lot of potential to be a naval and mercantile power.

Others: Other realms not mentioned above are not intended for players at this time; other big powers like Italy, France, the Vikings, and so forth are mine. If you have something creative in mind, I'll hear you out by PM, but I would prefer if you chose something that's open above. I'll be more likely to let you do something unorthodox if there aren't any free spaces above. I'm sure we can come up with something to get you involved.

HRE NES
Rise of the Holy Roman Empire

It is the Year of Our Lord 924. Charlemagne, Imperator Augustus and King of the Franks, has been dead for more than a century, and his empire is a shadow of its former self. The Christians of Europe are split into petty kingdoms and duchies, and Charlemagne’s crown sits in a Papal vault in Rome, the last Emperor having been defeated and cast down in disgrace.

The Throne of Saint Peter is also not what it once was. The Popes have been deep in the sway of several powerful Roman families – more precisely, the sway of powerful women within those families, and the illicit affairs that are rumored to go on in the holiest parts of the Eternal City have become the source of many derisive jokes and ribald rhymes. For now, these powerful families control the Papacy, and use it chiefly for their own immediate gain in the environs of Rome.

Not all is decaying, however. In the dark forests of Germany at the edges of Charlemagne’s empire, new powers are emerging. The tribes of the Germanic peoples have only recently restyled themselves as feudal nobility, and have appropriated large and independent realms for themselves. The four most powerful of these German Dukes, rulers of the tribal regions known as the “Stem Duchies,” have banded together and elected a King, and they have been joined by the Bohemians as a fifth duchy under the German crown. Threatened by the ruthless Magyar horsemen from the southeast, the Dukes have – at least superficially – submitted to a Monarch. Make no mistake, however, that they will humbly accept vassaldom and servile obedience to their new King – it was not long ago that their ancestors were pagan chieftains plundering the ruins of the Roman Empire, and they thirst for the power and wealth that could be theirs as Duke, King – or Emperor.

Playable Factions and Leaders:

Duchy of Saxony – King Heinrich (Micha)
Duchy of Franconia – Duke Eberhard III (foolish_icarus)
Duchy of Bavaria – Duke Arnulf (appleciders)
Duchy of Swabia – Duke Burchard II (Vacant!)
Duchy of Bohemia - Duke Vratislaus (Nimitz)
County of Friesland - Count Dirk (Vacant!)

Unplayable Powers:

Kingdom of Italy – King Rudolph II
Kingdom of Upper Burgundy – King Rudolph II
Kingdom of Lower Burgundy – King Louis III “the Blind”
Kingdom of Western Francia and Lothairingia – King Rudolph I
Duchy of Normandy – Duke Rollo Ganger
Republic of Venice – Doge Orso II Participazio
Magyar Horde – Fejedelem Fajsz
Kievan Rus – Prince Igor
Papal States – Pope John X
Kingdom of England – King Athelstan
Eastern Roman Empire – Emperor Romanos I (co-ruling with Constantine VII)
Croatian Duchy of Dalmatia – Duke Tomislav
Emirate of Cordoba – Emir Abd-ar-Rahman III
Kingdom of Bulgaria - Tsar Simeon "the Great"
Kingdom of the Danes - King Hardeknut
Duchy of Spoleto - Duke Boniface
Margravate of Tuscany - Margrave Guy
Principality of Benevento and Capua - Prince Landulf (co-ruing with Atenulf II)
Duchy of Naples - Duke Marinus
Duchy of Gaeta - Hypatus John
Principality of Salerno - Prince Guaimar II
Republic of Amalfi - Patrician Mastalus


Rules and Guides

There is no rulebook for HRE NES, but it's pretty easy to pick up. Look around and see how other people are playing, and look up the first HRE NES thread to see the whole thing from the year 911. If you have questions, don't be afraid to PM me or post them!

This is a detail-oriented and "authoritarian" NES. By authoritarian, I mean that you give orders rather than say how things are; you are playing a person in this NES (specifically, the Duke/Count/King/Emperor), not a country. By detail-oriented I mean that details are emphasized; my updates include various and sundry historical notes, I give accounts of all battles, and so on. Likewise, your updates should be as detail-filled as possible. More description is (within reason) better!

For orders, I prefer that everything be public and in this thread unless it needs to be secret - then you pm me. There is no limit on pms, and detail is good, but filling 10 pms with descriptions about the finely detailed mustaches on your Angonmen won't help you any.

Updates will typically occur when all players have submitted orders; updates will be postponed if players are on vacation. The GM reserves the right to update in a player's absence if the player just dissappears.

I have only two big rules to participate: First, make sure you pm me if you are leaving for a while, so I don't remove you or update without you. Be courteous! Secondly, if you find yourself unable to play, send me a pm, so I can give your spot to somebody else.

Note that new duchies will probably open up over time, so if you're reading this thread but there's no room for you, pm me anyway - when a duchy opens up you can join in.

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The Map (as of 924)

HRE NES 924

The Titles
A Who's Who of Germany

Henricius I, by the Grace of God King of Germany, Prince-Elector and Duke of Saxony, Margrave of Meissen, Count of Ringelheim and the Eichsfeld, Lay Abbot of Hersfeld.
Eberhardus III, by the Grace of God Prince-Elector and Duke of Franconia, Count of Hessengau, Persgau, and Oberlahngau, Patrician of Venice
Arnulfus I, by the Grace of God Prince-Elector and Duke of Bavaria, Count of Regensburg, Nordgau, and Sülichgau.
Burchardus II, by the Grace of God Prince-Elector and Duke of Swabia, Count of Zürich, Lay Abbot of Waldkirch.
Vratislaus I, by the Grace of God Prince-Elector and Duke of Bohemia, Prince of Moravia and Nitra, Count of Prague.

The Stat Block

Duchy of Franconia
Player: foolish_icarus
Ruler: Duke Eberhard III, Age 31
Wife: Adhela, Age 27
Children: Gerhard, Age 6
Other Relations: Hermann (nephew, 11), Kunigunde (niece, 11)
Relations: Grandson of Emperor Arnulf of Carinthia (distaff, deceased)
Current Heir: None
Treasury: 490 denarii
Demesne Income: 3,000 denarii
Mining Income: 875 denarii
Trade Income: 300 denarii
Tax Income: 0 denarii (5% of 0d)
Troop Upkeep: 2,510 denarii
Loss from Raiding: 0 denarii (no raiding)
Loss from Corruption: 360 denarii
Total Gain/Loss: +1,305 denarii

Territory: Duchy of Franconia
Size Rating: 100%
Principal Towns:
Frankfurt (court, armory, treasury, church, palisade)
Bamberg (palisade)
Mainz (palisade, chapel, monastery)
Weinsberg (palisade)
Defenses:
Good Dirt Roads
Land Use:
62% Enfeoffed
18% Church Property
20% Ducal Demesne (profitability 100%)
Demesne Income: 3,000 denarii
Corruption: 12%
Resources and Goods:
Usual crop complement (barley, wheat, oats, peas)
Silver (moderate quantity, basic mines) 500 denarii
Tin (high quantity, basic mines) 300 denarii
Iron (very low quantity, basic mines) 75 denarii
Vassals: 310 knights, 930 sergeants (260 and 750 called up)
Standing Army:
Frankfurt Levy (Landgraf Cristianus von Mellrichstadt, Rhinegraf Gisfried von Ingelbeim): 210 Medium Spearmen (spear, shield, light), 250 Pavise Archers (bow, pavise), 350 Medium Swordsmen (sword, shield, light)
Eastern Veterans Battalion (Wildgraf Merobaud von der Thüringerwald): 260 knights, 750 sergeants, 270 Medium Swordsmen (sword, shield, light), 30 Medium Guards (light, polearm), 20 Medium Shield Guards (light, polearm, shield), 50 Medium Pavise Archers (light, bow, pavise), 20 Medium Skirmishers (light, javelin, shield), 90 Medium Infantry (light, shield, spear, sword)
Conrad's Fist (no commander): 60 Medium Axemen (light, shield, axe), 35 Medium Woodsmen (light, axe, bow), 50 Heavy Warriors (heavy, shield, axe, spear), 100 Medium Crossbowmen (light, crossbow, sword)
Bamberg Guard (Vizegraf Teutomar von Würzburg): 100 Heavy Guards (heavy, polearm), 50 Heavy Spearmen (heavy, shield, spear), 25 Medium Archers (light, bow), 75 Medium Pavise Archers (light, bow, pavise), 45 Medium Swordsmen (light, sword, shield), 75 Medium Axemen (light, axe, shield), 50 Spearmen (light, spear), 50 Skirmishers (light, javelin)
Weinsberg Battalion (Landgraf Hraban von Koblenze): 80 Heavy Guards (heavy, polearm), 50 Heavy Spearmen (heavy, shield, spear), 25 Medium Archers (light, bow), 75 Medium Pavise Archers (light, bow, pavise), 50 Medium Swordsmen (light, sword, shield), 45 Medium Axemen (light, axe, shield), 30 Medium Spearmen (light, shield, spear), 50 Skirmishers (light, javelin), 100 Medium Archer/Spearmen (light, shield, spear, bow, pavise)
Army Upkeep: 2,510 denarii
Armory:
200 Light
250 Spear
370 Sword
200 Shield
450 Bow
400 Crossbow
50 Pavise

Duchy of Bavaria
Player: appleciders
Ruler: Duke Arnulf “the Bad,” Age 35
Wife: Judith of Friaul, Age 30
Children: Judith, Age 15; Luitpold, Age 2
Relations: Grandson of Duke Burchard of Swabia (distaff, deceased)
Current Heir: Markgraf Eberhard of Carinthia (brother)
Treasury: 1625 denarii
Demesne Income: 3135 denarii
Mining Income: 1740 denarii
Trade Income: 300 denarii
Troop Upkeep: 1640 denarii
Mercenary Wages: 540 denarii
Loss from Raiding: 0 denarii (no raiding)
Loss from Corruption: 470 denarii
Total Gain/Loss: +2525 denarii

Territory: Duchy of Bavaria
Size Rating: 110%
Principal Towns:
Regensburg (court, armory, treasury, ring wall, church, barracks, monastery)
Passau (chapel, ring wall)
Salzburg (ring wall, church)
Linz (ring wall, chapel)
Innsbruck (chapel)
Trento (palisade, church)
Defenses:
Bohemian Border (Stone Forts)
Carinthian Border (Border Forts)
Good Dirt Roads (plus old Roman Roads)
Land Use:
65% Enfeoffed
16% Church Property
19% Ducal Demesne (profitability 100%)
Demesne Income: 3,135 denarii
Corruption: 15%
Resources and Goods:
Usual crop complement (barley, wheat, oats, peas)
Tin (high quantity, basic mines) 300 denarii
Silver (very low quantity, basic mines) 125 denarii
Salt (very high quantity, advanced mines) 1,200 denarii
Stone (high quantity, advanced mines) 115 denarii
Vassals: 165(360) knights, 295(1,080) sergeants
Standing Army:
Army of Bavaria (von Villach, von Brenner, von Tegernsee, der Kroat, von Eichstatt): 60 Knights, 85 Sergeants, 140 Long Axemen (light, axe, polearm, shield), 70 Danish Vikings (light, sword, polearm, shield), 195 Medium Infantry (light, spear, shield, sword), 240 Heavy Infantry (heavy, spear, shield, sword), 280 Siege Archers (light, bow, Magyar bow, pavise), 80 Magyar Riders, 140 Thuringian Woodsmen
Nail Guards (Duke Arnulf): 35 Medium Infantry (light, spear, shield, sword)
Army Upkeep: 1640 denarii
Armory:
470 Pavises
320 Light Armor
215 Swords
630 Magyar Bows
215 Spears
50 Axes
125 Shields
100 Maces
155 Polearms
30 Javelins

Autonomous Territory: March of Carinthia
Player: None
Ruler: Markgraf Eberhard von Bayern, Age 33
Wife: Yamna die Magyarin, Age 12
Children: Brother-in-law of Fejedelem Fajsz
Treasury: 750 denarii
Demesne Income: 760 denarii
Mining Income: 525 denarii
Trade Income: 0 denarii
Troop Upkeep: 0 denarii
Loss from Raiding: 0 denarii (no raiding)
Loss from Corruption: 135 denarii
Total Gain/Loss: +1,150 denarii

Size Rating: 55%
Principal Towns:
Vienna (court, treasury, armory, ring wall, chapel, barracks)
Eppenstein (ring wall)
Defenses:
None
Land Use:
62% Enfeoffed
15% Church Property
23% Ducal Demesne (profitability 30%)
Demesne Income: 760 denarii
Corruption: 18%
Resources and Goods:
Few Crops
Iron (high quantity, 450 denarii)
Stone (high quantity, 75 denarii)
Vassals: 150(170) Knights, 305(510) Sergeants (60 and 120 called up)
Standing Army:
Army of Carinthia (Markgraf Eberhard, von Wien, von Leitbach): 60 Knights, 120 Sergeants, 300 Medium Infantry (light, spear, shield, sword), 150 Heavy Infantry (heavy, spear, shield, sword), 150 Siege Archers (light, bow, Magyar bow, pavise), 100 Thuringian Woodsmen, 150 Long Axemen (light, axe, polearm, shield)
Army Upkeep: 0 denarii (Bavaria paying wages and mercenary fees)

Duchy of Swabia
Player: bipolarbear
Ruler: Burchard II of Swabia, Age 40
Wife: Regelinda, Age 37
Children: Abbess Gisela, Age 19; Queen Bertha, Age 17; Burchard, 9
Relations: Father-in-law of King Rudolph II of Burgundy
Current Heir: Burchard (Son)
Treasury: 405 denarii
Demesne Income: 3,000 denarii
Mining Income: 750 denarii
Trade Income: 460 denarii
Other Income: 200 denarii (wineries)
Troop Upkeep: 3,525 denarii
Loss from Raiding: 0 denarii (no raiding)
Loss from Corruption: 480 denarii
Total Gain/Loss: +405 denarii

Territory: Duchy of Swabia
Size Rating: 100%
Principal Towns:
Strassburg (court, treasury, armory, palisade, chapel)
Augsburg (palisade)
Zurich (palisade)
Lindau (palisade, monastery)
Defenses:
Italian Border (Wooden Forts)
Bavarian Border (Stone Forts)
Good Dirt Roads
Land Use:
66% Enfeoffed
14% Church Property
20% Ducal Demesne (profitability 100%)
Demesne Income: 3,000 denarii
Corruption: 16%
Resources and Goods:
Usual crop complement (barley, wheat, oats, peas)
Grapes (advanced wineries) 200 denarii
Iron (high quantity, upgraded mines) 675 denarii
Copper (high quantity, basic mines) 300 denarii
Vassals: 290(330) knights, 885(990) sergeants (290 and 885 called up)
Standing Army:
Army of Swabia (Duke Burchard, Vizegraf Bernard von Thurgau, Landgraf Sibold von Zalringen): 290 Knights, 885 Sergeants, 500 Medium Spearmen (light, spear, shield), 1,000 Medium Infantry (light, spear, sword, shield), 300 Angonmen (javelin, spear, shield), 400 Pavise Crossbowmen (crossbow, pavise)
Strassbourg Levy (Landgraf Welf von Stuttgart): 380 Medium Spearmen (spear, shield, light), 190 Medium Guards (polearm, light)
Magyar Border Guard (Wildgraf Matto von der Schwarzwald): 200 Medium Swordsmen (sword, shield, light), 100 Light Archers (bow)
Army Upkeep: 3,525 denarii
Armory:
145 Light Armor
370 Bows

Duchy of Saxony
Player: Micha
Ruler: King Heinrich, Age 48
Wife: Matilda of Ringelheim, Age 32
Children: Thankmar, Age 15; Otto, Age 12
Relations: Great-great-grandson-in-law of Charlemagne (deceased)
Current Heir: None (all heirs underage)
Treasury: 2,395 denarii
Demesne Income: 4,160 denarii
Mining Income: 625 denarii
Trade Income: 80 denarii
Other Income: 200 denarii (woad)
Troop Upkeep: 3315 denarii
Loss from Raiding: 850 denarii (Danish Vikings), 300 Denarii (Frieslander Vikings), 200 denarii (Wends)
Loss from Corruption: 335 denarii
Total Gain/Loss: +65 denarii

Territory: Duchy of Saxony
Size Rating: 120%
Principal Towns:
Bremen (court, treasury, armory, church, palisade)
Minden (palisade)
Magdeburg (chapel, ring wall, training grounds)
Hamburg (monastery)
Münster
Defenses:
Northern Watch
Danish Border (Wooden Forts)
Basic Paved Roads
Land Use:
60% Enfeoffed
18% Church Property
22% Ducal Demesne (profitability 105%)
Demesne Income: 4160 denarii
Corruption: 8%
Resources and Goods:
Usual crop complement (barley, wheat, oats, peas)
Potash production (basic kilns) +5% demesne profitability
Copper (moderate quantity, basic mines) 200 denarii
Tin (moderate quantity, basic mines) 200 denarii
Lead (high quantity, advanced mines) 225 denarii
Vassals: 285(330) knights, 650(990) sergeants
Standing Army:
Saxon Army (Landgraf Theudobald von Osnabrück): 255 Knights, 575 Sergeants, 330 Saxon Guards (light, spear, shield, bow), 270 Spearmen (light, spear, shield, Magyar bow), 800 Saxon Raiders (light, sword, Magyar bow), 400 Medium Woodsmen (light, shield, axe, bow)
Bremen Levy (Burggraf Friedrich von Verden): 150 Medium Swordsmen (sword, shield, light)
Viking Slayers (Landgraf Theodoric von Norden, Vizegraf Gunter von Holstein): 90 Heavy Saxon Raiders (heavy, polearm, sword, shield), 50 Sword-Archers (bow, sword, shield, light), 140 Saxon Raiders (polearm, sword, shield, light), 180 Medium Angonmen (javelin, spear, shield, light), 275 Medium Woodsmen (light, shield, axe, bow), 130 Frieslander Auxiliaries (polearm)
North Sea Fleet (No Commander, 10 Longships): No crew
Army Upkeep: 2,815 denarii
Armory:
40 Spears
430 Swords
120 Polearm
30 Magyar Bows
"Viking Watch Fund" - 70 denarii remaining

Territory: March of Meissen
Size Rating: 20%
Principal Towns:
Zwickau (chapel, ring wall)
Leipzig (chapel, ring wall)
Dresden
Defenses:
None
Land Use:
Not Feudalized
Resources and Goods:
Few Crops
Woad (basic mills, 200 denarii)
Native Troops (1,500 men, inactive):
100 Kralkoń (horse, heavy, lance, axe, shield)
400 Tribal Swordsmen (sword, shield)
400 Tribal Spearmen (spear, shield)
600 Woodsmen (axe, bow)
Standing Army:
Protectors of the March (Landgraf Baldovin von Hameln): 500 Medium Woodsmen (light, shield, axe, bow)
Army Upkeep: 500 denarii

Duchy of Bohemia
Player: Nimitz
Ruler: Duke Vratislaus, Age 36
Wife: Drahomira “the Arrogant,” Age 34
Children: Wenceslaus, Age 17; Boleslaus, Age 15; Strezislava, Age 13
Relations: Son of Borivoj, First Duke of Bohemia; Wenceslaus married to Chesna, daughter of Lord Siemowit of the Polans
Current Heir: Wenceslaus (son)
Treasury: 4,210 denarii
Demesne Income: 3,300 denarii
Mining Income: 1150 denarii
Trade Income: 330 denarii
Other Income: 600 denarii (Linen)
Troop Upkeep: 3,000 denarii
Loss from Raiding: 100 denarii (Magyars)
Loss from Corruption: 430 denarii
Total Gain/Loss: +1,845 denarii

Territory: Duchy of Bohemia
Size Rating: 100%
Principal Towns:
Prague (court, treasury, armory, ring wall, church)
Pilsen (palisade)
Leitmeritz (monastery)
Defenses:
Excellent Dirt Roads
Land Use:
62% Enfeoffed
16% Church Property
22% Ducal Demesne (profitability 100%)
Demesne Income: 3,300 denarii
Corruption: 13%
Resources and Goods:
Usual crop complement (barley, wheat, oats, peas; poor soil)
Iron (very high quantity, advanced mines): 900 denarii
Silver (low quantity, basic mines): 250 denarii
Linen (advanced farms) 600 denarii
Vassals: 285 (310) knights, 780 (930) sergeants (265 and 720 called up)
Standing Army:
Army of Prague (Ondrej z Trutnov): 225 Knights, 450 Sergeants, 800 Medium Spearmen (light, shield, spear), 150 Medium Woodsmen (light, axe, bow)
Army of Brno (Hrabe Dalibor z Erce): 210 Sergeants, 500 Medium Spearmen (light, shield, spear), 300 Skirmishers (axe, javelin, shield), 200 Medium Woodsmen (light, axe, bow), 50 Archer/Crossbowmen (axe, bow, crossbow), 100 Medium Archers (bow), 200 Medium Crossbowmen (light, crossbow)
Leitmeritz Garrison (Hrabe Jasny z Litomerice): 40 Knights, 60 Sergeants, 400 Medium Infantry (light, shield, spear, sword), 200 Medium Skirmishers (light, axe, javelin, shield),
100 Woodsmen (shield, axe, bow)
Army Upkeep: 3,000 denarii
Armory:
150 Light
300 Spears
300 Bows
150 Shields
300 Axes
350 Crossbows

Territory: Principality of Moravia
Size Rating: 20%
Principal Towns:
Brno (ring wall)
Defenses:
None
Land Use:
Unfeudalized
Resources and Goods:
Some Crops
Native Troops (1,600 men, inactive):
500 Tribal Swordsmen (sword, shield)
800 Tribal Spearmen (spear, shield)
300 Moravian Milites (light, shield, spear, javelin)

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Links

HRE NES I (911-919) can be found here.

Updates

Year 912
Year 913
Year 914
Year 915
Year 916
Year 917
Year 918
Year 919
Year 920
Year 921
Year 922
Year 923
Year 924

General Roster

This list contains the descriptions of all generals currently active for each Duchy. Generals who are slain or were not selected do not appear on this list.

Franconia

Rhinegraf Gisfried von Ingelbeim - Age 44
Most other nobles are of two opinions of this man – they either love him or hate him. While he doesn’t seem to inspire either through his general conduct, his masterful theories of tactics and warfare are widely respected by those who like him and envied by those who don’t. This trait of his would not be so inspiring of intense emotion were he not always so loudly trumpeting his willingness to try out all his tactics himself, sword in hand, on the front lines.

Bishop Roricus von Worms - Age 46
This man is a clergyman noble, a bishop in the service of the king. He is a trusted ally of the Conradine ducal house, and believes firmly in the German King and his righteous cause. Though not noted as an excellent commander or great leader, he is undoubtedly loyal and notably brave on the field of battle. His tactical skills are wanting, but thanks to his priestly studies he is literate and has a respectable knowledge of siege warfare.

Landgraf Cristianus von Mellrichstadt - Age 34
A popular, energetic, and outspoken noble, this man is noted as one of the leaders among the nobles who attempted to grab land in Saxon Thuringia while Duke Heinrich was away. He is immensely popular among his soldiers and people, as well as his fellow nobles, and excels at battlefield command, though he is not much for military engineering. He is a known social climber and his loyalty to the duke is highly suspect.

Wildgraf Merobaud von der Thüringerwald - Age 45
A well known commander in Franconia, this noble from the dark forests of Franconian Thuringia is noted for his achievements on the field of battle – men will acknowledge his skill, bravery, and charisma readily when asked. Perhaps he is no latter-day Pompey, but his prowess is something that would make any commander on the field think twice. He appears to be suitably loyal; no incidents that would infer otherwise stand out (he has remained aloof from the group of Franconian-Thuringian nobles allied to von Mellrichstadt).

Vizegraf Teutomar von Würzburg - Age 35
A younger son in his family, this man nevertheless managed to take control of the family lands after the unfortunate death of his older brother while on campaign against the Magyars. He is known locally as “der Erbauer” (the Architect) for his extensive program of public building – he has constructed churches, local roads, and bridges that rank among the most sophisticated in Germany. His engineering expertise is encouraging, though his skills as a general are somewhat mediocre.

Landgraf Hraban von Koblenz - Age 46
This man’s family is an old Lotharingian-Franconian line, and he claims descent from Charlemagne. He fought extensively with King Conrad against the Magyars, and is recognized as a respectable and confident commander with strong ties to the Conradine dynasty. He is known as a serious-minded noble who speaks with awesome gravity and authority; when he speaks, all listen. He is neither educated nor literate despite his speaking ability, which seems to stem from natural charisma.

Bavaria

Freiherr Visloff der Kroat - Age 33
A poor Knight of low status and foreign birth, this man has distinguished himself through his known bravery and gallantry in the field and a brilliant head for numbers. If anything, he is too chivalrous. His superiors are often exasperated at his slow, methodical, logical approach to any and every problem.

Vizegraf Gunnulf von Villach - Age 45
There are few that approach this man’s mastery of war. While he is neither well educated nor literate (though, to be fair, neither are most nobles), he has an uncanny instinct for tactics that seems to always come through. When the field is equal, he invariably crushes the enemy through superior cunning. He is reasonably well liked, though his peers wonder if he is a bit too cautious – for him, discretion is often the better part of valor. Little is known of his loyalty, but there are no rumors of any disloyalty on his part.

Landgraf Hrudolf von Tegernsee – Age 41
Called “the Invincible” by his men, this rustic noble is well known to have ridden calmly through veritable storms of arrows unscathed. He seems to have miraculous luck in this regard, and unflinchingly leads from the front – he is stone-faced, emotionless, and fearless. This does not make him the most popular man among his peers, who don’t quite know what to think about someone with the emotional capacity of a rock. His tactics are simple, but generally sufficient. He is a man that keeps his own council and says little, and thus not much else is known of him.

Wildgraf Arnald von Brenner – Age 41
This man’s estates are around the strategically crucial Brenner pass over the Alps. This man has a reputation for cunning, having built a small fortune from local trade routes through the pass. He is an experienced and sharp commander, and has a unique personality that attracts others to him – he was often the spokesman of all the nobles of alpine Bavaria at the Duke’s court. He is aggressive and single-minded in his pursuit of goals, dismissing “safe plans” and precautions as so many irrelevancies. For all his cunning, however, his mathematical skills are clearly lacking.

Carinthia

Wildgraf Ansehelm von Leitbach - Age 50
A noble from the untamed lands of southern Carinthia, this man spent his young years as a German mercenary lord in the army of Louis the Blind, during Louis’s eventually failed attempt to wrest the Kingdom of Italy from Berengar. Present at several sieges of Italian cities, this man has proved himself to be a brilliant engineer, admired even by the normally more proficient and numerate Italians. He is unquestionably brave on the field, but is noted as ponderously cautious and not truly outstanding in tactical matters. As a former mercenary, a few have doubts as to his loyalty.

Donaugraf Gottfried von Wien – Age 34
This man’s history can be traced through his names. Originally a Norwegian Viking named Guthfrith, he fought with the violent and renowned “Duke” Hrolf Ganger, who terrorized France so brutally that he was given the entire Duchy of Normandy in exchange for peace. Once in France, he changed his name to “Geffrey d’Evreux,” not because he ruled Evreux but because as a Viking he was responsible for sacking it so thoroughly that he became known as “Geffrey the Rich” among his compatriots. Like his former lord, Geffrey converted to Christianity, though like most converted Vikings he doesn’t see a particular problem with paying occasional homage to the old gods alongside Jesus Christ. After being granted with the counties of Vienna and the Wachau by Duke Arnulf, he changed his name yet again to something more “German” – Gottfried von Wien (Vienna). He is a clever and ingenious commander, quite simply a military genius – and he is an inspiration to his own men, who will follow him anywhere. He is, however, notoriously aggressive, rapacious, violent, and opportunistic, and as a mercenary and former (some would say “current”) Viking his loyalty is perpetually in question. He is uneducated and has a poor grasp of German, though he does have a basic skill with siege warfare derived from experience rather than technical achievement.

Swabia

Landgraf Welf von Stuttgart - Age 40
A notably wealthy noble, this man is known by a few as intelligent and an excellent military theorist, though he always seems to be in the background of campaigns, letting others lead from the front while he makes his plans and amuses himself with strategic considerations. He talks little and is easily forgettable by most.

Landgraf Sibold von Zalringen - Age 43
This man is known as a good, pious, and charitable man. He spends many hours in prayer, and lives in self-enforced simplicity, uncommon for a landed noble. His faith inspires his people and soldiers, and his is quite popular among all who know him; though not remarkable for much else, he is widely regarded as someone who won’t spend much time at all in Purgatory.

Wildgraf Matto von der Schwarzwald - Age 37
This man is very popular among his fellow nobles. Owning sizeable but undeveloped estates in the Black Forest, he is a consummate host and socialite, and it seems nearly all the nobles in the duchy have hunted with him or dined at one of his many country houses. His many friends, when asked about any vices of his, all have a good chuckle at his seemingly legendary laziness.

Vizegraf Bernard von Thurgau - Age 35
Known as ambitious and keen of mind, this man is noted as a skilled commander of soldiers, and reasonably popular as well. He has risen in the ranks quickly in his well known quest for power, which unnerves those above him.

Saxony

Burggraf Friedrich von Verden - Age 33
This man is a loud self-promoter, constantly bragging about his bravery and prowess in combat. While his personal courage has been noted on the field against the Slavs, his skill as a leader is somewhat less impressive, and his headstrong nature has imperiled others before. Insinuations in this regard usually result in this man becoming very angry, and demanding that the matter be settled in personal combat, which he has proven himself to be quite skillful at.

Landgraf Theodoric von Norden - Age 38
This man is actually a Frieslander from Norden who swore fealty to the Duke during the recent Viking raids, convinced that the Duke of Saxony was the only one who could eventually save Friesland from the Norsemen. He is envied as a soldier and commander, having exhibited supreme mastery on the field several times. It is indisputable that his prowess, coupled with the fervent zeal he inspires in his men, has turned defeat into victory on the field of war. Unfortunately, he does not often display this talent – he is a conservative’s conservative, and always extremely reluctant to assault the enemy or take any kind of risk whatsoever. While he bravely leads his men from the front, some wonder whether he cares too much about them to be a truly effective commander.

Vizegraf Gunter von Holstein - Age 42
This man’s wealthy father paid for his instruction in Padua. He is learned in affairs both scientific and military, is literate, and has a good bearing on both mathematics and the conduct of warfare, often reading treatises on Charlemagne and Justinian in his spare time. An uncommon bookish sort in a world of illiterate warlords, he is otherwise nondescript.

Theudobald von Osnabrück - Age 31
A relatively young man, this noble was educated by a Greek tutor and is literate in several languages. He is reputed as a very intelligent man, applying his sharp intellect to both theological discussions and estate management. Though he is untested in battle, perhaps his intelligence would be applicable there as well. He is a popular and clever man by all accounts, and seems loyal enough.

Bohemia

Hrabe Dalibor z Erce - Age 40
Few leaders have vassals more dedicated than this man. A noble from Bohemia's isolated mountainous north, he is a dedicated partisan of the Premyslid dynasty. This man is intelligent, outspoken, and knows it - he is an undisputed master of engineering and is utterly fearless on the field. Unfortunately, these things manifest as drawbacks as well; he seldom backs down from a fight, even when the need to do so is obvious (so convinced is he of his own abilities). His tactics are complex to the point of unworkability, and his loud self-confidence irks those around him.

Hrabe Jasny z Litomerice - Age 51
This accomplished but somewhat unremarkable nobleman has worked hard in life and been rewarded with a sizeable fief around Leitmeritz. He is a decent commander, reasonably popular, and quite even-tempered, and no stories of disloyalty stand out. He appears to be a modest and serious man who substitutes good common sense and a strong work ethic for real genius.

Hrabr Ondrej z Trutnov - Age 45
A Christian knight with lands in the east, this noble comes from an old Nitrian family and was an important general of Great Moravia. His army was crushed by the Magyars; though by all accounts he was a good commander, his force was betrayed by one of his lieutenants who defected to the Magyars. Since then, he has retreated to his estates and not had much of an impact on politics. He is known as a creative and bright tactician, and is unflinchingly brave – he has as many kills to his name as any of his old soldiers. Though somewhat of a recluse and not terribly popular, he is well educated and supposedly loyal.

Friesland

Baron Staas van Apeldoorn - Age 34
Though a young man, this noble belongs to a family that has been working against the Viking occupiers for generations; this man’s father was part of the conspiracy to murder Gisfrid the Sea-King (and a friend of the previous Count), but was killed in battle against the Vikings. His son is known as a loyal and determined vassal of the Count, though recent setbacks have caused some to doubt his tactical ability. He seems suitably brave without being overly aggressive, and has a proven record of aptitude in engineering and siege warfare.

Baron Geffe van Deventer - Age 46
This noble has only recently joined the rebellion, as his marshland territory was never truly controlled by the Vikings, but has demonstrated his ability on several occasions. He appears to be a competent commander, though as a gruff and reserved man he is not the most popular baron around and doesn’t seem overly concerned with taking orders. Though uneducated and introverted, he comes into his own on the battlefield, where he has wide renown for his feats of bravery and personal courage.

[Cyclotron]

The Marketplace

This lists all trades that concern German duchies, both domestic and foreign. Trades provide a profit equal to a percentage of their total volume to both parties. This can range from 10% to 50%, and is decided by how easy and safe the trade route is for merchants, how valuable the goods are, and what the local demand is. Trade by river is the most profitable kind, followed by sea trade, followed by overland trade.

Domestic Trade
Franconia-Swabia: 100 Franconian Tin, 200 Franconian Silver for 100 Swabian Copper, 200 Swabian Wine (30%=180d)
Swabia-Bavaria: 100 Swabian Copper for 100 Bavarian Tin (20%=40d)
Swabia-Saxony: 300 Swabian Iron for 150 Saxon Tin, 150 Saxon Copper, 100 Saxon Lead (20%=140d, Swabian overcharge 100d)
Bavaria-Saxony: 100 Bavarian Salt for 100 Saxon Lead (20%=40d)
Bavaria-Bohemia: 400 Bavarian Salt for 350 Bohemian Iron (20%=150d, Bohemian overcharge 50d)
Bavaria-Franconia: 300 Bavarian Salt for 300 Franconian Silver (20%=120d)

Foreign Trade
Bohemia-Polans: 200 Bohemian Iron for 240 Polan Amber (20%=90d, Bohemian overcharge 40d)

Total Profit:
Franconia: 300 denarii
Bavaria: 300 denarii
Swabia: 460 denarii
Saxony: 80 denarii
Bohemia: 330 denarii
Friesland: 0 denarii

Seneschal's Report
Here the Seneschal for each Duchy and County has complied a list of all resources, from either domestic production or foreign trade, that are available for use.

Franconia
Tin - 200 denarii
Iron - 75 denarii
Copper - 100 denarii
Wine - 200 denarii
Salt - 300 denarii

Bavaria
Salt - 400 denarii
Silver - 425 denarii
Tin - 200 denarii
Stone - 115 denarii
Copper - 100 denarii
Lead - 100 denarii
Iron - 350 denarii

Carinthia
Iron - 450 denarii

Swabia
Iron - 375 denarii
Copper - 250 denarii
Tin - 350 denarii
Lead - 100 denarii
Silver - 200 denarii

Saxony
Copper - 50 denarii
Tin - 50 denarii
Lead - 25 denarii
Iron - 300 denarii
Salt - 100 denarii

Bohemia
Iron - 350 denarii
Silver - 250 denarii
Tin - 60 denarii (no copper)
Linen - 600 denarii
Amber - 240 denarii
Salt - 400 denarii

Friesland
Butter - 200 denarii
Salt Fish - 200 denarii


Mercenary Billboard

This lists all mercenaries available in regions adjacent to German provinces; others from further abroad may be available too, if you need something special done. Ask me how long mercenaries will take to reach you. Mercenaries may be available to command instantly if they are close enough.

The religion of mercenary units affects how loyal they will be to you, how likely they are to sack and pillage the places you conquer based on the faith of your enemies, and how your fellow Christians feel about you employing infidels.

Magyar Riders (horse, Magyar bow, javelin, sword)
The Magyars are a people skilled in the art of steppe warfare. Eager for plunder, these pagans serve any lord that can promise them good pillage. These light horse archers are armed to the teeth; they can strike with unerring accuracy from long distances or close to deliver their javelins with deadly effect. Though they wield their sabers with skill, their lack of armor or a shield means that their hand-to-hand abilities are only suitable for fighting light cavalry and riding down fleeing infantry. Magyar warriors fight for wealth alone, and will leave nothing of value in their wake; though they are cheap to hire, they often leave little loot for the rest of the army and may simply abandon a commander that does not "deliver the goods." Cost: 2d per man. 2,500 available. Can be recruited from the Carpathian basin or other Magyar controlled territories.

Norman Adventurers (heavy, sword, lance, shield) - These hardy Normans are more than knights - they are adventurers! Attracted by the promise of land and wealth in Italy, these minor nobles and rich freebooters have come south to serve any lord that will hire them. Though Christian, they are headstrong and impetuous; they care far more about personal fame and fortune than loyalty or patience. As they are after fame and plunder rather than steady pay, they are relatively inexpensive to hire, though unreliability is always a concern. They are well equipped and ride strong warhorses. Cost: 3d per man per turn. 800 available. These men may be recruited from Burgundy, the Kingdom of Italy, or the Papal States.

Lombard Axemen (light, axe, shield, javelin) - The Lombards ruled Italy until Charlemagne defeated their King, taking the title "King of the Lombards" for himself. Now, Christian Lombard warriors under the rule of the King of Italy and the Pope often hire their services to the highest bidder. They are fierce warriors that favor the axe in combat, with generations of experience fighting the Byzantines, Franks, and each other. Cost: 2d per man per turn. None available at this time. These men may be recruited from the Kingdom of Italy, Byzantine Italy, or the Papal States.

Slavic Warriors (spear, javelin, shield) - These lightly armed pagan warriors are tough but ill-disciplined. They are best suited to being a mobile reserve to fend off light cavalry. Cost: 1d per man per turn. 4,500 available. These men may be recruited from Bohemian-Moravian lands, or from the Wends, Polabians, Polans, or Pomeranians (basically everybody to the east of Germany).

Thuringian Woodsmen (bow, axe) - The Wends and Polabians of Thuringia, known as the Thuringii, are expert hunters and hardy pagan warriors as well. They are unarmored, highly mobile skirmishers that excel at ambushing and screening an advance. They fight best in the thick forests they are used to. Cost: 1d per man per turn. 5,600 available. These men may be recruited from the Wends, Polabians, or Pomeranians (everybody east of Germany and north of Bohemia).

Dalmatian Cavalry (lance, shield) - These spirited Croatian (and mostly Christian) light cavalrymen are light lancers suitable for flanking and screening duties. They will not fare well in a heavy melee, however. Cost: 2d. 700 available. These men may be recruited from Croatia.

Croatian Men-at-Arms (heavy, shield, mace) - The lesser nobles of Croatia often sell their services to the highest bidder when their own country is at relative peace. They are tough, well-disciplined, Christian, and equipped with good quality armaments, though they are not rich enough to own horses. Cost: 3d. 400 available. These men may be recruited from Croatia.

Frankish Chivalry (light, sword, lance, shield) - Sergeants from Frankish cities, these minor nobles are desperate to prove themselves on the field, and willing to do so for other Christian princes. They are excellent soldiers and medium cavalrymen, though sometimes too aggressive for their own good. Cost: 3d. 1,200 available. These men may be recruited from any Frankish land, including Burgundy, France, Provence, Italy, Lothairingia, or the Papal States.

Frieslander Raiders (polearm, light) - These fierce Frieslanders fight with only the massive double-handed Danish Axe and stout leather armor. They are war-hardened Christians well suited to brutal frontal assaults, and more disciplined than Vikings. Cost: 2d. 800 available. These men may be recruited from Friesland.

Danish Vikings (light, polearm, sword, shield) - The pagan Vikings are terrifying and powerful warriors that are nearly unmatched on foot, armored with good leather or ring mail armor, and carrying well-made swords and enormous two-handed danish axes. They are brave and strong, though they tend towards ill-discipline, and are known for looting and pillaging their conquests even when in the employ of another - they are cheap to hire, but "supplement" their income by laying waste to most everything in their path. They are especially adept at amphibious and marine warfare. Cost: 2d. 3,400 available. These men may be recruited from the Danemark.

Jomsvikings (heavy, polearm, sword, shield) - The Jomsvikings are an elite brotherhood of mercenary Vikings that are held to strict standards of bravery, strength, and order. Unlike normal Vikings, these men are highly disciplined and can be counted on to be the last men out of a fight. They have excellent chain mail and good quality weaponry. They are prohibited to ever show fear and must demonstrate a feat of strength to join the organization, so each man is a fearsome warrior on the field. Jomsvikings are pagan through and through, chanting prayers to Odin, Tyr, and Thor throughout their battles. Cost: 4d. 1,000 available. These men may be recruited from their fortress in Jomsborg, on the island of Wollin off the Pomeranian coast (north of modern-day Poland)

Italian Urban Guards (heavy, spear, shield) - The cities of Italy often keep provincial armies of infantry funded by their merchants and local industries. In times of peace, these men seek employment elsewhere. They are well-equipped heavy spearmen that can hold a battle line and pose a great danger to cavalry, but are often more interested in money than taking great risks. Their services do not come cheaply, but they can be relied upon to what they are paid to do - no more, and no less. Cost: 3d. 400 available. These men may be recruited from the Kingdom of Italy, the Papal States, or the Republic of Venice.

Saracen Pirates (sword, shield, composite bow) - Lightly armored but heavily armed for combat aboard their fast ships, these men are bloodthirsty warriors who follow the heretical religion of Mohammed. They usually make a living off terrorizing Christian ports and merchant vessels, but sometimes go ashore to fight for a Christian master if the pay is good. They are excellent shots and terrifying opponents, but have no regard for Christian life or holy places. They are brave in battle but do not like harsh conditions, and if they are pulled to far away from their ships they may simply desert. These men take great pleasure in looting everything that isn't tied down. Cost: 2d. 3,200 available. These men may be recruited from anywhere along the Adriatic Sea, or anywhere else in the Mediterranean.

[Cyclotron]

The Battle of Tirol

The plan of Duke Arnulf of Bavaria was almost immediately thwarted by the Magyar horde. Though the Bavarians and Burgundinians both made excellent time towards Augsburg, the Magyars did not even wait for thaw to suddenly break camp, turn about, and move southward. Once the combined German-Burgundinian force reached Augsburg, the Swabians were hurriedly outfitted with elements of the Bavarian armory brought en route. Already behind, the generals quickly realized there would be no way to catch the swift Magyar force on land. Von Brenner, an expert on the terrain further south, recommended a novel idea to catch up with the Magyars.

Von Brenner’s plan required a direct march through Swabia directly south along the Lech River, until crossing into Bavaria 40 miles west of Innsbruck and traveling down the Inn River (a tributary of the Danube) to Innsbruck, where von Brenner’s estates and a crucial river crossing to control the pass were located. By using the river, perhaps the Magyars could be beaten to the pass. Though Arnulf and some of his lieutenants still desired to pass through Bavarian territory to keep up links with Salzburg, it was evident that were that route taken the Magyars would fight the Imperial army long before the German troops drew close.

The Germans realized they would have to move quickly. The army embarked on a determined forced march on the west bank of the Lech, with the Magyar force a few days ahead on the other side. Though the Germans and Burgundinians suffered in the bitter cold of early spring, it was evident they were not the only ones – their scouts could see the occasional horse carcass left on the other side of the river, evidence of the Magyar’s similar hardship. The Germans traveled 70 miles in one week, even though laden down with armor and supplies.

Meanwhile, the Bavarians had arranged for a great motley fleet to be sent up the Inn River. When the German-Burgundinian force crossed over the passes at Lech to the Inn River, an assortment of hastily gathered fishing boats, pole-barges, and rafts made on site. The army made the transit down the river, landing at the small fishing village of Zirl seven miles upriver from Innsbruck.

The army had scarcely disembarked when the Magyars came roaring down from the north. The Germans had thought the Magyars were at least a day behind them, and had planned to hold the seven miles until Innsbruck; the army suddenly found itself backed against the river. A fierce battle ensued.

The Germans and Burgundinians were unaware that they were not facing the entirety of the Magyar force. Hadúr Zoltán, with 6,600 horsemen, had ridden hard ahead of the main horde to secure vital passes before the Germans could; it was this force that suddenly found itself perfectly placed to ambush the enemy. The Germans and Burgundinians thus outnumbered their attackers by more than a thousand, but the disorganized condition of the army neutralized whatever advantage this might have been. As the flood of horsemen came down off the mountain, screaming and loosing arrows at the startled Germans, terror spread through the ranks. The Burgundinians, who were the first to contact the enemy, were thrown back in confusion. Their King managed to keep a cool head and rallied the Burgundinian chivalry, succeeding in keeping the Burgundinian line from collapsing only by charging the Magyar line, giving the levy soldiers a brief respite. Unfortunately, the Magyars only pulled back and showered the Burgundinians with arrows. The King was struck in the shoulder by one and his horse shot out from under him.

The Swabians, leaderless and seeing the Burgundinians fall back, immediately began to rout. Their mercenary archers simply took to the hills; the remainder fled to the east, some drowning attempting to flee back into the river. The fleeing Swabians made advancing difficult for the Bavarians, the last ones to cross the river, and only with great difficulty was Arnulf able to bring his forces up to the Bugundinian lines and bring them under his immediate command. The Burgundinian levies had been pushed back substantially and some had fled, with the King and his chivalry detached from the rest of the troops.

It was perhaps only the distinction of a certain von Dortmund that saved the day. His 600 men sallied out to save the Burgundinian King, and they managed to do this despite the rain of arrows all around them. Though some of his less experienced levies fled, the Saxons managed to extricate the King, and the Burgundinian chivalry was able to break out and towards the allied lines. The Saxons were not so lucky; they were quickly surrounded. With the majority of the German archers fleeing (primarily Swabians), the Germans were unable to force the Magyars back. The Saxons all fell, save a few which had fled earlier. The handful of knights rallied about their leader until he too was no longer seen.

Arnulf decided to make a fighting retreat to Innsbruck, hurredly forming up the lines and facing the Magyars in his arranged battle plan. With the river on his left flank and the mountains on his right, the Magyars were unable to either pierce through or flank the Germans, and – with the main Magyar force still a few days away - Hadúr Zoltán opted to pull back, satisfied with the destruction of the Saxons and the routing of the Swabians.



With King Rudolph in no shape to command and von Dortmund dead, Duke Arnulf was left in command of the entire force. He went about hardening their defensive position, as he controlled a narrow bottleneck, and sent out scouts to procure supplies from Innsbruck and to make contact with the Emperor. The Emperor’s troops were currently making their way through the pass, and if Arnulf could only hold out for three days, they would be able to unite and move against the Magyars in good order. With the Swabians brought back to the main body of the force, this certainly seemed doable.

For the next day, Magyar skirmishing against the German lines became heavier and heavier. The day after the battle at Zirl was a near constant exchange of arrows, with Magyar horsemen often riding close enough to exchange javelins with the defenders. Though in decent spirits, the physical exhaustion of the last few days and the mental stress of being constantly under attack wore at the defenders. The skirmishing was unsuccessful at dislodging the Germans, though it showed no signs of ceasing.

The main Magyar force was sighted on the second day after the landing at Zirl. When it arrived, the force under Hadúr Zoltán threw themselves against the defenders; the fighting was vicious, but the Germans and Burgundinians held their ground and caused notable losses (especially from the Swabian archers and Thuringian woodsmen). It soon became obvious, however, that this was merely a distraction. The hurried retreat of the allies from Zirl meant that they had left much for the enemy – in particular, their flotilla of rafts and boats. The newly arrived Gyula Levente decided to use this fleet to cross the Inn and interpose his own sizeable force directly between the Emperor and the Germans.

Unable to advance under the constant attacks of the Hadúr’s horsemen, Arnulf’s lines were forced to simply wait as Levente ferried his force across the river. When they were assembled on the other side (which took most of the day), they moved against the Germans’ left flank. Though they could not cross the river to directly attack the Germans, their arrows carried well over the river and made for a devastating crossfire which slew many on the German left. Arnulf decided to retreat again, to higher ground where they would not be subject to this cross-river bombardment.

Unfortunately, this meant the loss of the town. There was precious little time for the residents remaining to flee with any possessions; when the Germans retreated, fighting with Zoltán’s troops the whole way, the Magyars plundered and burned the town on both sides of the river. Zoltán’s horsemen, a bit overeager in their looting, opened themselves to a brutal countercharge by the hot-headed Normans, but they were able to rally and again force the Germans back to Arnulf’s new position on the mountainside.

The next morning, the Imperial army was sighted coming through the valley towards Innsbruck. They were faced by the majority of the Gyula’s men, who had fanned out to cover the whole valley. Though the Exercitus Imperii Romani Sancti had been afforded enough time to form up properly, they were effectively bottled up in the valley mouth, with the Emperor unwilling to advance against them into the Inn valley where his flanks would be unprotected by the mountains. The Normans demanded that the German-Burgundinian force attack and link up with the Italians, but the Duke refused to move out, emphasizing the role of his defensive strategy.



This situation continued for the next three days. The Italians and Magyars sparred, while Zoltán continued to harass the Germans with little success. It was obvious, however, that time was on the side of the Christians; with the pass behind him completely secure, Berengar received fresh supplies constantly, while the Magyars had already stripped the valley bare. When a massed offensive against the Imperial left failed to make much headway, the Magyars south of the river began to back off.

That night, the Germans were surrounded. The three days had given the Slavs under the Magyar command ample time to pass to the north of the Germans, on the other side of the mountains, and fall upon Hall in Tirol in the night. Finding the village packed with refugees from Innsbruck, they held a mass slaughter and looted the town, turning them to the west to attack the German rear.

Their looting proved to be their undoing. A farmer escaped the massacre and warned the Germans and Burgundinians. The Burgundinian and Norman chivalry fell upon the Slavs before dawn while they were still plundering the town, and the Magyar allies were utterly annihilated. The Magyars under Hadúr Zoltán, hearing battle, rushed to join and made an all-out attack on the German lines. In the dark, chaos reigned, though without good vision the Magyars could not shoot well and the Germans had the upper hand. The Magyars were repulsed and thrown into confusion; the Norman chivalry, fresh from their slaughter of the Slavs, sensed victory and countercharged the Magyars. Against the orders of the Duke to stay put, the Burgundinian and some of the Bavarian chivalry eagerly joined them. Ordinarily, this might have ended in disaster, but the Magyars were boxed in a narrow valley, with the ruins of Innsbruck blocking a clear retreat path and the cloudy night confusing their host. When dawn arrived, Hadúr Zoltán’s force was no more.

Gyula Levente, observing the failure of his northern wing and noting his lack of supplies, chose to abandon the field. He moved his men eastward at a leisurely pace, moving down the Inn River knowing full well that the Italians and Germans were in no position to mount a pursuit.



The combined allied army moved out once the Italians were ready, but the Magyars were far too swift. Gyula Levente attacked Salzburg while the Christians were a week or more away, but his lack of supplies and siege engines, coupled with the poor morale of his men after their retreat and the strong fortifications of the town, forced him to abandon the effort even though the town was held by not much more than town militia. His force moved back into Carinthia and perhaps beyond, finally losing Eberhard’s scouts in their swift exit from Germany.

The Imperial army, along with the combined German-Burgundianian force, now camps at Salzburg in preparation for their next move.

Freiherr Heidolf von Dortmund is presumed dead. His body could not be recognized among the slain.
Vizegraf Gunnulf von Villach was wounded by an arrow, but has recovered.
King Rudolph of Burgundy was wounded by an arrow, but has recovered.
Hadúr Zoltán was wounded by an arrow, but has recovered. He has been captured by the German-Burgundinian army.

1,300 Magyars and 200 Slavs have been captured by the German-Burgundinians.

Swabia has lost 345 men:
220 Medium Spearmen
125 Composite Archers

Additionally, all of Swabia's mercenary Thuringians have either been killed or fled the field.

Bavaria has lost 380 men:
10 Frankish Cavalry
40 Heavy Infantry
70 Long Axemen
110 Medium Infantry
30 Siege Archers
120 Thuringian Woodsmen

The Saxons have lost their entire force, 600 men. Those few who escaped took to the hills rather than face slaughter.

The Burgundinians have lost around 800 men.

The Exercitus Imperii Romani Sancti has lost around 1,000 men.

The Magyars under Hadúr Zoltán have been destroyed, with the majority of their men either dead or captured. An unknown number have fled into the hills.

The Magyars under Gyula Levente have lost around 500 men.

The Magyar force traveled light and left with their baggage; there was no significant loot to be had in this battle.

The following arms and armor have been looted by the German-Burgundinians. King Rudolph has declined to take any, insisting his men were adequately prepared. The remainder may be split in the manner the Germans see fit.

1,900 Light Armor
160 Heavy Armor
1,400 Magyar Bows
120 Bows
1,100 Shields
1,800 Spears
900 Swords
140 Axes
480 Javelins

(Maps courtesy of Google Earth)

[Cyclotron]

Okay then! Sorry it's been so long. I think a new thread is overdue; those pages were starting to pile up. I hope you enjoyed the illustrated battle, but don't expect that every time! I am doing a lot this break, but I will attempt to port things over from the last thread and update them as time allows.

[Micha]

Wow, this is great! I mean, it did not exactly turn out as I would have hoped, but you´re doing a great job! Could you perhaps drop a hint which colour is whom?

As soon as the stats are there, I´ll be preparing my revanche... Also, Saxony would like to claim some of the armour pieces!

[Cyclotron]

Originally posted by Micha
Wow, this is great! I mean, it did not exactly turn out as I would have hoped, but you´re doing a great job! Could you perhaps drop a hint which colour is whom?

As soon as the stats are there, I´ll be preparing my revanche... Also, Saxony would like to claim some of the armour pieces!

Thanks!

Green indicates the forces of the Exercitus Imperii Romani Sancti (Italians and vassals)
Blue indicates Germans and Burgundinians
Red indicates Magyars; the thicker red line is the main body under Gyula Levente, and the thinner red line is the detachment under Hadúr Zoltán.

A hooked arrow typically means an attack that was repulsed.

As for armor pieces, you need to work out how those are being split with the Bavarians and Swabians.

[appleciders]

I need a "low whistle" smilie- that's some loot! And since that's a victory overall and the Emperor got through so that we can follow this up, I'll take it, though I must offer Heinrich my consolation on the loss of his force and my thanks for the bravery of von Dortmund.

Oh, and I've got so much leather coming in, I'll forgo all my share of the light armor if I can have all the heavy armor.

[Rand Al'Tor]

Man, I am seriously AWED by this thing. (also tired, as it kept me up through the night) While I don't think I have the free time to actually run a duchy. (especially considering one should be made) might I ask if I can now and then offer some 'flavour' Entirely up to the approval of the Mods of course.

[bipolarbear]

That's a five star update. Well played Cyc!

[Cyclotron]

Originally posted by Rand Al'Tor
Man, I am seriously AWED by this thing. (also tired, as it kept me up through the night) While I don't think I have the free time to actually run a duchy. (especially considering one should be made) might I ask if I can now and then offer some 'flavour' Entirely up to the approval of the Mods of course.

Thanks! I'd love to give you a space, but we're pretty full at present - when a new space opens up, I'll let you know. I'd be happy to look at anything you'd like to offer, just shoot me a PM. Depending on the activity of the members here, we may get new Duchies sooner or later.

[Cyclotron]

Originally posted by bipolarbear
That's a five star update. Well played Cyc!

So you say, and the update hasn't even been posted yet! I will attempt to do so later today.

EDIT: I have realized I have to get up at 4 am tonight to fly back. I'll attempt to post the update tomorrow after getting back to college.

[appleciders]

Duke Arnulf of Bavaria to Duke Erchanger of Swabia and King Heinrich of Germany

The matter of splitting the arms and armor captured in Tirol seems a possibly divisive issue should it not be dealt with now. I would like to claim the following as my share of loot:

Bavaria: 160 heavy armor
120 bows
500 shields
500 spears
500 swords
140 axes

I have been trying to build a force of heavily armored core infantry, and the heavy armor would be especially helpful. I have a large supply of leather from Venice, so I do not especially need the light armor looted, so I offer my share of that for the heavy armor, while I realize that Saxony and Swabia have large new forces to equip and so will require large quantities of light armor. I have many Magyar bows, so I do not need need any more. Likewise, I do not especially care for javelins, so I will off up my share in those as well. I also claim less than one-third of the spears present, because I realize that both Saxony and Swabia have large new forces to equip, and will require many weapons. The quantity of axes is small but I claim those as well to replace those I lost. Finally, I would like to take more than one third of the swords available to help equip my heavy infantry.

[bipolarbear]

Duke Erchanger of Swabia to Duke Arnulf of Bavaria
Homw much more than 1/3 of the sowds? We demand specifics!

[Micha]

Originally posted by bipolarbear
Duke Erchanger of Swabia to Duke Arnulf of Bavaria
Homw much more than 1/3 of the sowds? We demand specifics!

Well, there are 900 swords available, while he claims 500. That´s clearly more than 1/3, isn´t it?

[Cyclotron]

Anno Domini CMXX

This year’s Pope: John X
This year’s Emperor: Berengar I
This year’s King: Heinrich I

Successions

The Empress-Regent of the Byzantine Empire, Zoe Karvounopsina, has been sidelined and removed as regent following her Empire’s disastrous defeat at Anchialus. The Admiral Romanos Lekapenos has managed to take up the reigns of power from the underage Constantine VII, and has proclaimed himself co-Emperor (though he is the senior Emperor in all but name).

Saxon merchants from England have reported that the High King in distant Ireland has been slain by the Vikings, along with a dozen lesser Kings of that land, in a single battle.

Family Business

No family events of note have taken place this year.

Land und Leute

The winter this year was quite mild, and for the first time in several years the weather is a boon to farming rather than a curse. All Duchies gain a 10% bonus to the profit from their demesnes this year.

Krieg und Frieden

Rejoice! The Magyars have been driven from German soil, and the hated Hadúr Zoltán has been captured. Unfortunately, the victory was incomplete, as the Magyar’s chief leader, Gyula Levente is alive, and the majority of his army with him – but at least the good people of Germany can breathe easier for a little while. With Levente still alive and the relics in his possession, it seems no prince will be collecting the Pope’s prize this year.

The Croatian Duchy of Dalmatia and the Bulgarian Empire have agreed upon a 5-year truce. All can see that this is a fragile agreement at best, and it will take the very will of God to keep these powers from each others’ throats.

The Frieslanders have reported that a fleet of longboats, sent by the King of the Danemark, has arrived in Friesland to reinforce the local Viking occupiers. The Frieslanders and Saxons will have to fight all the harder to liberate Utrecht; it is rumored that the Danes travel with the dreaded berserkir, infamous crazed warriors that fight with the very wrath of Satan.

Emperor Simeon I of Bulgaria has concluded an alliance with the Pechenegs, a steppe people to the east of the Magyars, against their mutual enemies in the Byzantine Empire and Magyar Horde.

Other News of Christendom

His reign reinforced by his tremendous victories against the Byzantines, Emperor Simeon I of the Bulgarians has secured the autonomy of the Bulgarian church in an ecclesiastical synod. The Bulgarian church has been raised to the status of a Patriarchate; the weakened Romans at Constantinople have not even attempted to contest this decision.

A meeting has been held at Salzburg this year between Duke Arnulf of Bavaria, King Rudolph II of Burgundy, and the Emperor Berengar I. Lavishly provided for by the coffers of the German crown, the three nobles have discussed strategy against the Magyars and trade rights in central Europe. The Emperor has called for the liberation of Carinthia from the heathen this year, and has also informed the Bavarian Duke that a 5% tax on German and Venetian goods traveling through his lands would be a most proper display of good will, especially if the Bavarians wish to rely on Imperial support in the coming years.

Swabia

Though the regrettable flight of the Swabian soldiers at the start of the Battle of Tirol has put the Duke in some local disgrace, the final victory has salvaged what could have been a destabilizing military debacle. The removal of the Magyars as an immediate threat to Swabian towns, at least, is welcome news for the Duke and his partisans. With the iron trade to Friesland cancelled, the Duchy seems to have turned finally to a war footing – apparently the nobles of Swabia have had enough of the Magyars’ predation upon their estates.

Corruption in Swabia remains constant at 16%.

Franconia

The hapless Duke of Franconia seems to be having some difficulty. Various internal matters have apparently paralyzed his apparatus of state, or his judgment, or both – the Duchy, once holder of the German crown, could not even send soldiers to aid the Kingdom in its latest battle. The nobles of Franconia are increasingly polarized into rival camps allied to either Landgraf Cristianus von Mellrichstadt or Rhinegraf Gisfried von Ingelbeim, who each have more influence and experience with the Franconian barons than Franconia’s new Duke. The power of the Duke is increasingly limited to what lies within the walls of Frankfurt.

Corruption in Franconia has increased by 1% this year, to 16%.

Bavaria

The victory at Innsbruck has brought great prestige to the Duke of Bavaria; though incomplete, his prominent role in the victory has brought him acclaim as a war leader that seemed to have eluded him previously. With the barons weakened by the recent rebellion and the Duke’s prestige greater than ever, the position of Duke Arnulf has never been stronger. The Duke is also honored to have a King and an Emperor as his guests in Salzburg, which aggrandizes him all the more in political circles.

The Duchy has been busy with fortification recently, a measure thought by many to be long overdue. Ring walls at Passau and Salzburg have been finished, and Bavaria’s stone mines – crucial for walls and castles – have been upgraded and expanded. The defensive network on the border with Carinthia, however, will need more time and money to complete – the border is long and much of it runs through wilderness.

Flush from their recent victory, the Normans and Franks have been agitating for a swift reconquest of Carinthia in order to finally establish their promised estates. Though for now they do the bidding of the Duke, it is well known that they are freebooters at heart and may lose faith in the Duke’s leadership if their promised lands are withheld from them through inaction.

Corruption in Bavaria has decreased by 1%, to 18%.

Saxony

Thought the King has been mired down in foreign affairs in Friesland, he has continued to make his presence known in Saxony though an extensive building campaign. Work on lead mines and roads has paid dividends; Saxony especially is in need of good roads, as unlike Swabia or Bavaria, it lacks the old roads from the days of the Roman Empire that are still in use today. Better communication links have helped to bring more of the Duchy under the control of the King’s agents and constables.

The sacrifice of the brave von Dortmund in battle has resulted in some strange stories in Saxony, with scattered reports of miraculous healings being attributed to the deceased young knight. Perhaps this worthy young commander is one of God’s blessed as well?

Corruption in Saxony has decreased by 1%, to 8%.

Bohemia

With the Magyars distracted from Bohemian lands, the Bohemian Duke has made great progress in returning his lands to peace and order. Bohemian troops have, without a fight, managed to bring the last of Bohemia back under the control of the Duke. With this task accomplished, the Duke has set his sights on the past glory of the Great Moravians – Ducal scouts have moved south into Moravia to size up the Magyar presence there.

Flax cultivation has begun in earnest in Bohemia; fields long abandoned have been brought back into production, and the Duchy has produced its first small, but profitable linen crop. Though facilities for processing the flax are primitive and the acreage small, a source of linen that could compete with the linen mills of Western Europe could be profitable indeed.

Work has continued on roads in Bohemia, as well as on Bohemia’s silver mines. The present silver veins, however, are not the easiest to access, and the Duke’s engineers report that more money and time will be necessary to upgrade the mines to greater production and efficiency. In Pilsen, a palisade has been completed, a welcome step towards the lasting security of the Duchy.

The Duke has ordered an investigation into the status of his own armed forces; his generals have agreed that though the Bohemian army is somewhat small, morale has run high since the liberation of the country from the Magyars and the victory in Thuringia. They seem most worried about the state of the troops’ equipment; the soldiers are poorly equipped and most lack armor of any kind. All agree that a serious confrontation with the Magyars would be disastrous without a more properly equipped and armored force.

Corruption in Bohemia has decreased by 1%, to 16%.

Friesland

Though the arrival of the Danish fleet is worrisome news, the County holds for now in a kind of uneasy stalemate with little blood shed. The Frisians, bolstered by the Saxon royal army, are clearly a force to be reckoned with, and neither they nor the Vikings have made any real offensive moves in the past year. A battle is coming, but for now the occupiers and occupied wait for the right moment.

Corruption in Friesland remains constant at 13%.

[Cyclotron]

A Moravian ambassador in the service of the Magyars has arrived in Salzburg. He has supposedly been sent in lieu of an actual Magyar on account of the difficulty of finding a qualified Magyar ambassador that can actually speak German. He claims to speak for the Fejedelem.

Ambassador Kázmér of Moravia to the Nobles at Salzburg

The Prince of the Magyars, the most powerful Szabolcs, has noted that you have in captivity his relative Hadúr Zoltán - a prince of the blood of Árpád - as well as a number of his warriors. He is unused to the German custom regarding prisoners, but proposes that their freedom may form the basis for a truce between the Horde and the German tribes.

Emperor Berengar I to Duke Arnulf of Bavaria, Duke Burchard II of Swabia, and King Heinrich of Germany

I came here with the intention of aiding the rulers of Germany in exchange for the securing of my own borders. Now that Germany is no longer in immediate danger, the March of Carinthia must be restored presently in order to secure my lands in Friuli from direct Magyar invasion. I cannot afford to keep this army in the field indefinitely, and unless action is taken soon I will be forced to either retire back to Italy or levy payments from your Kingdom to support my army in the field. Delay will cost you my assistance, one way or another.

I am eager to hear your proposals, especially that of the King, whose presence I have unfortunately missed here at Salzburg and whose personal audience is strongly recommended.

King Rudolph II of Burgundy to King Heinrich of Germany and Duke Arnulf of Bavaria

My friends, I am glad to have been of some service. Unfortunately, my own wounds and the unstable state of the French Kingdom prevent me from campaigning with you deeper into Magyar territory. I propose that my forces, under my lieutenants, remain at Salzburg this year as a defensive reserve while you move southward with the Emperor; my personal presence in my lands is sorely needed. I cannot afford to keep them in German lands much longer than that.

Caesar Simeon I, Emperor of the Bulgarians, Greeks, and Romans, to King Heinrich I of Germany

The Great Emperor Simeon, ruler of the East and Emperor of Christendom, congratulates the German people on their defeat of the savage Magyars. Though He is unable to personally come to the assistance of the Germans, He has directed his considerable treasury to the recruitment of the Pechenegs as allies, another tribe of heathens that have fought the Magyars many times. If God wills it, the Pechenegs will prove to be a distraction to the Magyars to the benefit of the German princes.

[appleciders]

Duke Arnulf of Bavaria to Emperor Berengar I
I have no intention of waiting to reclaim Carinthia, which is rightfully mine. The Magyars have already retreated past the boundaries of the Mark, the heathen tribe to their east has promised support, and the Magyars are freshly defeated, as we hold 1,300 of their men and their second-in-command. Bavaria is solidly under my control, and my own army is up to the task of holding Carinthia once recaptured. They will never be weaker than this, and we will never be stronger. We will move this year to reclaim the Mark for Christendom! We should also consider the matter regarding the captured Magyars and the nessecary arrangements. I personally do not especially trust the Magyars, and am disinclined to negotiate.

I understand your need for financial support in this endevour, and would be willing to give you the 1,300 Magyars as slaves, either to work your own estates or sell to the Venetians or another merchant.

Duke Arnulf of Bavaria to King Rudolph II of Burgundy
I understand your position and welcome your offer to have your army in Bavaria as border guards.

[Cyclotron]

Emperor Berengar I to Duke Arnulf of Bavaria

The Magyars have despoiled my lands for years and pillaged and murdered as they pleased. Were those captives mine, I would not have captured them to begin with - I would have put them all to the sword as a demonstration to the Magyars of our utter sincerity. What you do with them is not my concern, but I have no need of them and I am no slave trader.

As for fund raising, I intend to levy a tax on your trade routes through my territory. This is not a proposal, it is a declaration of fact. It is only fitting that you pay a basic toll for using my lands to enrich yourselves and the Venetians, who you no doubt know are not on the best of terms with me.

I would entertain a proposal of a truce in theory, but I doubt the sincerity of the Magyar prince, and I further doubt his authority to stop all raids - from my experience with the Magyars, they do not all heed any single leader. Nevertheless, the Gyula is still somewhere with a sizeable force, and the Magyars are at their best when making surprise attacks. I do not believe them to be utterly defeated by any means.

[appleciders]

Duke Arnulf of Bavaria to Emperor Berengar I
I do not intend to imply a devil-may-care attitude towards a reconquest of Carinthia, but I honestly believe that this year will be the best time to reconquer the Mark. The Magyars, while never weak, will only get stronger from this point forward, and I intend to make the most of your assistance while you are able to offer it.

While I am not thrilled that you wish to levy a tax, I must conclude that a small tax on those goods is probably fair. What may not be fair, however, is levying the tax solely on me- the Venetians gain as much if not more than me, so they should by rights bear half the burden.

OOC: As long as we're having entertaining titles, am I not still Margrave of Carinthia, even though I don't control it in reality? I don't recall the King ever confirming the transfer to Eberhard, so it should still be official, right?

[Nimitz]

Duke Vratislaus I to King Heinrich of Germany

My lord, I wish to know if I may count on your support should I attempt to gain a Bishop for Prague and Bohemia?

[Cyclotron]

Emperor Berengar I to Duke Arnulf of Bavaria
I am in agreement with your strategic plan, though reluctantly so. I simply cannot afford to keep this army in the field on a prolonged, cautious campaign.

I feel that you overestimate the ability of the Magyars to regain their strength. Never before have I seen them use Slavs and other subject peoples in battle; either they are simply keen to try out new tactics, or they are starting to feel themselves at a manpower disadvantage. Their troops are not levies and cannot be raised in a few months; they are warriors trained from birth, and that is not something so easily replenished. It is for that reason as well that, were they my prisoners, I would execute all the Magyars taken at the last battle. Such a foe must be bled white if he is to be beaten.

As for taxes, you can rest assured that Venice has already been notified of their identical obligations.

OOC: As long as we're having entertaining titles, am I not still Margrave of Carinthia, even though I don't control it in reality? I don't recall the King ever confirming the transfer to Eberhard, so it should still be official, right?

I suppose you have me there. Nevertheless, these titles are those that each ruler would use to describe themselves; note that Vratislaus is Prince of Moravia and Nitra as well as Duke of Silesia, even though he has no presence in those territories and even though he is the only one to recognize those claims. Because you have already declared your intent to give the Margravate to Eberhard, it seems unlikely that you would then announce yourself as Margrave, yes?

By the way, here's a particularly long string of titles:

Berengar I, by the Grace of God Holy Roman Emperor, King of Italy, the Romans, and the Lombards, Duke of Corsica, Margrave of Friuli and Ivrea, Count of Pavia and Milan, Patrician of the Romans.

[appleciders]

Duke Arnulf of Bavaria to King Heinrich of Germany
My liege, the matter of the Margravate of Carinthia has been brought to my attention. The Margravate has been promised to my younger brother Eberhard, but the transaction has not taken place, largely because of the fact that I currently do not control Carinthia. With the Emperor's support, I plan to move towards Carinthia this turn and retake it for Christianity. Once Eppenstein, the sole large city remaining in the Mark, has been retaken, I would like to confirm Eberhard as the Markgraf of Carinthia, and seek your support in this transfer.

[Cyclotron]

Originally posted by appleciders
Once Eppenstein, the sole large city remaining in the Mark, has been retaken,

If by "large city" you mean "burned out husk." There are currently no towns of any sort left in Carinthia, only scattered villages. Eppenstien and Vienna are both damaged sections of ring wall at this point.

[appleciders]

Oh. It was still on the map, so I figured there must be something left. Huh.

[Cyclotron]

Originally posted by appleciders
Oh. It was still on the map, so I figured there must be something left. Huh.

There is something left - a wall. It is likely being used as a fence to keep sheep from wandering right now. The existence of that wall is why it (and Vienna) are still on the map.

Of course, you can found or re-found towns - many rulers would do so, to improve their domains, reward vassals, gain prestige, and so on. You are not restricted to historical towns or towns not found on my map.

[appleciders]

Got it. I actually hadn't thought we could found towns, since that would be such a long-term project, but now that you put the idea in my head...

[Cyclotron]

Originally posted by appleciders
Got it. I actually hadn't thought we could found towns, since that would be such a long-term project, but now that you put the idea in my head...

Actually, founding towns was a widely practiced part of being a lord in these days. A town is created only by the lord granting a township charter to a village or settlement (though sometimes, the lord also creates the settlement by moving people there from other places on his land). This charter gives the townsfolk some degree of autonomy and local self-governance; in return, the town usually attracts trade, quality craftsmen, and so on that help enrich the Lord's estate.

In this period of time, urbanization was far from being widespread, but the practice certainly existed. In game terms, because we are in a "pre-tax" society, towns don't directly give you more income because the Lord's only income is from his own demesne - however, especially prosperous towns (and eventually, cities) will certainly have an impact on trade revenue, prestige, and so on. Large and wealthy towns may sometimes feel tempted to challenge some of their ruler's decisions, but they can also provide useful trade and services, and even trained militia when need be. Keep in mind, however, that this is a 10th century, 90+ percent agrarian society, and re-creating Renaissance Florence in Bavaria is a very remote possibility.

[appleciders]

Originally posted by Cyclotron
Keep in mind, however, that this is a 10th century, 90+ percent agrarian society, and re-creating Renaissance Florence in Bavaria is a very remote possibility.

No, but if recreating pre-Magyar Eppenstein is a possibility, I'll definately do that.