Fury of the Northmen

[The_Emperor]

Alright guys in response to a couple of requests, I have decided to start a Viking Era Campaign.

The Difficulty level is Expert playing as those guys with the big axes and bad attitudes...

I will be the hub and there is a list. Write-ups for each reign are requested.

Who's up for it?

[Dîn-Heru]

Im in din_heru@hotmail.com

[The_Emperor]

EDIT:

Here is the list then... as of 13.14 BST 10th August 2003.

The_Emperor (Current King: Ragnar I)
Dîn-Heru
Monk

My reign is going at quite a pace and I should finish it later on today.

[Monk]

im in monk643@yahoo.com

finally, a PBM of the Vikings http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Mount Suribachi]

Vikings are fun, but they are wayyyyyy more powerful than anything else on the VI map - Beserkers and Viking Huscarles are simply unstoppable, I fear that this could be over in 2 or 3 reigns (especially if Alrowan get his name down next http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif ).


A tougher faction such as the Picts or the Irish might have been a better choice (sorry to be so negative The Emperor)

[Monk]

not exactly Mount, the Saxon Huscarls are better than Viking Huscarls, and i have personaly seen the saxons push straight through Viking lines before, so there are some things that can stop them.

[Mount Suribachi]

My experience as the Mercians was the opposite - VHs chewed up my SHs...the only way I was able to defeat the Vikings was to outnumber them, pin them with AS then flank with SHs. What level were you playing on? I was on expert maybe it was the AI stats bonus that made the difference. Or perhaps it was all those high valour Viking heirs boosting their units stats. Anyways, I know for a fact that all the other factions were swept away by my SHs - exept the Vikings who were always tough and several times handed me my backside on a silver platter.

Damn it Thats 2 threads I've hijacked in this forum now Sorry The Emperor http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] (Mount Suribachi @ Aug. 10 2003,09:45)]Damn it Thats 2 threads I've hijacked in this forum now Sorry The Emperor http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif
Don't worry about it sometimes these things do on occasion get OT... Just remember to bring it back On Topic again ASAP http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

To answer your point about the Vikings being too powerful, I chose them because the VI Mercia PBM Campaign ended in disaster, and I chose the Vikings to make sure that the game would have a smaller chance of ending from losing.

Saying that the Vikings have their own financial troubles as it is and can't really afford to hold on to land early in the game, so raiding is a must and Viking armies often have to sack a province to get the money and then let it go again.

And of course there is the fun factor of the Vikings as well

By the way are you in with this or what?

[The_Emperor]

I am done now... My Write up will follow shortly.

Dîn-Heru the game has been sent to you.

[Dîn-Heru]

savegame recived. will play later this evening/tonight.

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

I'm in, if you'll have me: robbob99@msn.com (me-robbob99@msn.com)

[Dîn-Heru]

don't get wiped out this time then http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif

[The_Emperor]

The year is 822AD, and the raiding was well under way.

King Ragnar I was aged 56 and he was desperately ill... His army was fresh from victory over the Rebel Warrior Hold in Lothene.

Ragnar was dying he gathered his warriors gathered around him he spoke to them of the story of his reign, and asked that this story be remembered...

Ragnar explained that Money had been very hard to come by in his lands and Ragnar had no choice but to lead the glorious Viking warriors to adventure and battle for more plunder. This opinion of his was reinforced when great omens from the gods were seen in the westward skies, the Viking warriors rushed to their longboats led by ragnar himself... the lands to the West were divided and ripe for raiding and glorious adventure.

Ragnar's army landed in East Engle, the rebel forces there were caught by surprise and retreated, and the Vikings began to plunder, pillage and burn the surrounding countryside. The army then moved on to East Seaxe to continue the plunder, once again the rebels retreated at the terrifying sight of the Viking Horde. South Seaxe was attacked a few rebels ran to their warriorhold, but most went across the border to Cantware. During all of this Prince Harald came of age and stayed behind the main army, he was not a great warrior like his father but liked Drinking a bit too much.

Our army crossed into Cantware and the rebels led by Ealdred the Unready made a stand against our forces.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/vk/VK1.jpg

The battle began with most of the enemy forces hidden in the woods, the Landsmenn were charged by some Mounted Nobles they fought them amongst the trees heavily restricting the enemy horses, but even so we took heavy casualties as our Landsmenn were charged by Fyrdmen and spearmen... The Tide Turned when Landsmenn charged hard into the enemy flank, the Peasents there took off and ran and this caused more and more of the enemy to turn tail and run.

King Ragnar then charged forward to Kill the enemy General who was leading his unit of archers nearby... many of our warriors were shot down by the enemy but they couldn't stand before us. We cut a few of them down before they turned around and charged us... Ealdred the Unready was beheaded where he was stood by the Axe of King Ragnar.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/vk/VK2.jpg

We had taken losses but our warriors were victorious... the raid had given us a great deal of wealth and loaded wth plunder we borded our longboats to return to Nordaland and Jutland.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/vk/VK3.jpg

The next few years saw a great deal of improvements at home as we constructed new buildings and trained more troops, but soon enough the money was running low and more raids were required. My son Ragnar came of age that year and he is a good commander of men.

The Kingdom of Mercia were to be attacked this time, and it was going to prove to be a painful setback for them. We crossed into Lindissi and the mercians retreated, we moved from there to Middel Engle for more raiding and pillage. Then we boldly attacked Mierce, the heart of the Mercian Kingdom. The Mercians retreated inside the walls of their great fort, and we were surrounded on all sides by enemy forces and cut off from the coast.

Regardless we assaulted the fort itself.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/vk/VK4.jpg

The enemy garrisson was not relived by the forces surrounding us and the fort fell, all the remaining buildings were stripped and burnt and we gained much wealth.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/vk/VK5.jpg

The Mercian Prince Harold rebelled against his King and civil war erupted, with Lindissi under his control...

We made for Lindissi and he retreated into East Engle as we set out to sea... and there he stays as the Mercians crushed his minor civil war.

The Saxons who became allies with us through marrage had Conquered East Seaxe, Cantware and South Seaxe, and more rebels retreated into East Engle.

During all of this time my other sons came of age, they were Prince Erik, Prince Sven, Prince Olaf and Prince Cnut.
Prince Olaf is the least talanted. Prince Sven and Prince Cnut have the makings of great leaders on the field of battle... and Prince Erik was fairly capable himself.

My son Prince Harald had taken to drinking more and more during those years and I feard that he will not be fit to lead our warriors on the field... An assassin attempted to kill him so that Ragnar would be next in line, but he failed and Harald has since been very nervous about being assassinated.

The Northumbrians had a civil war with their primary Stonghold in Beornic going over to the rebels, it was a massive stone Keep but guarded by only a few Mounted Nobles. Lothene also rebelled. The assault in Lothene was a great success and a large amount of plunder had been taken.

As King Ragnar finished his story a Viking Horseman approached on some Raider Cavalry, the Warrior dismounted and Knelt down beside his leader...

Prince Harald is dead, he had stormed the stone Keep in Beornic with his personal bodyguard of Huscarls against his Brother Erik's wishes. he was so angry that Erik was appointed to be in command of his army that he wanted to prove himself. Harald died having boiling oil poured onto him from the gatehouse, but his men fought on and secured the Castle.

Ragnar whispered to the rider, Tell my son Ragnar that with the death of his brother it falls upon him to take over leadership of our people and to lead you all to victory, Harald was a fool and deserved to...

The rider looked up at the face of his leader, but he was gone. Bowing his head in final respect he turned towards the Longboats nearby, He rushed to Ragnar to inform him of the deaths of his Father and Brother.

So it was that Ragnar II became leader of the Vikings at the age of 33... and his lands looked like this.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/vk/vmap.jpg

[Mount Suribachi]

Quote[/b] (The_Emperor @ Aug. 10 2003,13:08)]And of course there is the fun factor of the Vikings as well

By the way are you in with this or what?
The Vikings are undoubtedly tremendous fun to play, however...I really *really* should get my Almohad reign written up first. So I'll pass for now.

[The_Emperor]

Ok Mount let me know when you wish to join the raiding.

Ok guys the list as of now 23:20 BST 10 Aug 2003.

The_Emperor (King Ragnar I)
Dîn-Heru (Current King: Ragnar II)
Monk
Big King Sanctaphrax
Kristaps

[Kristaps]

Please add me too: kristaps@caia.org

[DrHaphazard]

Oh i better jump in before the line gets any longer...like it did with that Almo campaign.

DrHaphazard - dleib@tulane.edu

I warn you though, my previous viking age attempts have been well...abysmal http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

[sprucemoose]

ill have a pig and a poke

redbarony88@hotmail.com

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Quote[/b] (Dîn-Heru @ Aug. 10 2003,15:40)]don't get wiped out this time then http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif You're so cruel...

[Dîn-Heru]

Quote[/b] (Big King Sanctaphrax @ Aug. 11 2003,11:10)]
Quote[/b] (Dîn-Heru @ Aug. 10 2003,15:40)]don't get wiped out this time then http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif You're so cruel...
Well, I try. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Dîn-Heru]

My reign has now ended and the savegame has been sent to the Emperor.

My write up will follow in a couple of days probably, also if anybody can host photos for me, than that would be grand.

Here is a very short summary:

King Ragnar II came to the throne in 823, he died in 847.
In his lifetime he conquered Ireland, became a great builder, and turn the annual loss of around 1000 fl, to a yearly profit of around 1100 fl.

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] (Dîn-Heru @ Aug. 11 2003,14:35)]My reign has now ended and the savegame has been sent to the Emperor.

My write up will follow in a couple of days probably, also if anybody can host photos for me, than that would be grand.
Thanks Dîn-Heru, Game recieved and sent on to Monk

I can host images for you as well if you want, email them to me and I'll stick em in a folder and notify you by email of the URL.

Ok as of 17:27 BST on 11th August 2003 this is the state of play...

The_Emperor (King Ragnar I)
Dîn-Heru (King Ragnar II)
Monk (Current Ruler: King Sigurd II)
Big King Sanctaphrax
Kristaps
DrHaphazard
Sprucemoose

Any other would-be kings are welcome... plenty of plunder for everyone http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Monk]

game recieved, will start soon

[The_Emperor]

Ok Monk, try not to keep us waiting too long... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

We are dying to find out whats going to happen next http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Dîn-Heru your files have been uploaded and an email has been sent, now we await your write up http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

[Dîn-Heru]

The Saga of Ragnar II Conqueror of the Irish
1. Ragnar II was 33 years of age when his father, Ragnar, died from the curse that was put on his family so that his line could be king of all Vikings. No man of his line would live to see his 57th birthday. The year was 823 of the reckoning of the White Christ.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/din/ragnarII.jpg

Ragnar was not good-looking, but what he lacked in looks he had in strength, he was a great warrior. In addition was he also good with numbers, and an honest man.

The lands left to him by his father, was the Viking homelands of Hordaland and Jutland, in addition the warriors of his father had captured the provinces of Lotherne and Beornice in England.

Ragnar II’s treasury held 6833 florins, but the annual loss was about 1000 florins. Ragnar II would soon need to send his men to the British Isles to seek plunder.

Ragnar II’s first action was to move the army stationed in Lotherne to Beornice. Seeing that the men of Lotherne would not support his overlordship for long. He also appointed Knut Sturlasson to Earl of Beornice.

2. Seeing that the invaders had left, bandits and men loyal to the Northumbrian king appeared in Lotherne, and began taking over the province.

That same year Ragnars II first son was born. He was named Sigurd. He would become a natural leader and was named to be Ragnar II’s heir, the next king of the Vikings when the family curse came to claim Ragnar II as its prize.

Ragnar II sent out ships to find lands ripe for plunder. They sailed around the land of the Scots and looked upon the land of the Irish. This land would eventually belong to Ragnar II, but that was in years to come.

3. In the year 825, the struggles between the Northumbrian loyalists and the bandits in Lotherne came to an end. The Northumbrians were the new lords of the province.

To celebrate his accession to the throne, Ragnar II had ordered the construction of a shrine to Odin, Thor and Frey in Beornice. And all was well in Beornice. But in Hordaland, the populace had not sacrificed enough to Frey, and there was a famine.

4. A messenger came to Ragnar II and delivered intelligence from Britain. The Northumbrians were now at war with the Vikings, but their Welsh and Saxon allies did not stand by their side, instead they remained allies to the Vikings. He also delivered a disturbing rumour, the Picts were said to be the strongest faction on the Isles.

A wonderful event took place this year, 826, Ragnar II’s second son, Magnus was born.

Another happy event also took place this year. The King of the Irish had sent his daughter, Lennabhair, to be married to Ragnar II’s brother Cnut.

The treasury was now 505 florins, and plans were made to invade Dere, belonging to the Northumbrians.

5. At the sight of our warriors disembarking on the coast of Dere, the Northumbrian soldiers guarding the province, abandoned it and left its treasures free to take. 6090 florins were taken to the ships and home to Hordaland.

But all was not well in this year. The Northumbrians had not only fled from troops from overseas. The garrison in Beornice had also travelled south into Dere. And seeing a chance to get rid of Viking rule, a small group of spearmen numbering 100 men revolted in
Beornice, claiming to be loyal to the Northumbrian king. The men who had marched from Beornice turned back to stop this threat

6. The battle of Boernice was swift and bloody for the Northumbrians. 65 men lay dead, while 13 Vikings went to Valhalla. 35 men were ransomed back to the Northumbrians.

A messenger also arrived in Hordaland this year, the year of 828. His news from the Isles was the following: Northumbrian loyalist revolt in Dere, Irish maintains alliance, and the Saxons are said to be the richest on the Isles.

7. In the year 829, the sign of Doom for the Irish were seen. King Ragnar II himself embarked on his ship and set sail for the Green Isle. An Isle which suffered under civil war. Ragnar II hoped to make it a source of income and a safe base from which to attack England and Scotland.

8. War with the Irish
Ragnar II landed in Ulster in the early months of 830. The Irish retreated without a fight, and the Vikings were free to obtain money for the war. 8898 florins were added to the coffers. Arnald the Hardy became Ragnar II’s governor of Ulster taking the Irish title of Ruire. His first order as a governor was to order the construction of a goldmine, to gain more wealth to make war.

The war against the Irish continued, and prince Sven was sent to take Brega, early in 831. The Irish retreated to their keep. But their supplies were low and low and it would fall in a year. 2350 florins were pillaged.

The Irish king gained much support in the face of the invasion.

The garrison besieging keep in Brega lost 39 men in the year the siege lasted. In the year of the siege another army under the Command of Prince Cnut set out to capture Laigin.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/din/laigin.jpg

Prince Cnut arrived near a small village, where he met up with forces sent from Brega. The Irish, who had no way of retreat, had advanced to the village and to do battle with the Vikings. The Irish took up position overlooking the village, where the Vikings were busy looting. Seeing the threat approaching, Prince Cnut organised his men and began marching towards the Irish. The Irish, seeing the mighty host of the Norsemen, withdrew to a hill further away. Cnut sent his cavalry around the Irish, while he himself advanced head on. When he was close enough, every man charged, whilst the cavalry was rapidly approaching the Irish from behind. The peasant kerns were cut to pieces, and soon the enemy general, Ferdia the Fair, turned to flight. And soon the Irish fled the field. 288 men were killed 92 captured and 50 Norsemen went to Valhalla. Early this year the siege in Brega ended.

Prince Cnut seeing the increased unhappiness of the men of Laigin, decided to storm the stronghold of Den Ailinne, where the remnants of the battle of Laigin had retreated. The assault came in 834. 13 men went to Valhalla to rid the warrior hold of the 60 men defending it.

Eirik Gudmundsson became Ruire of Laigin, Gunnbjørn Fair-Hair had become Ruire of Brega the year before.

In 836 King Ragnar II entered battle himself. He invaded Connacht and faced the Irish king, Aedh V. Along with the Irish king was his three sons, Niall, Donal and Dermot. As the host marched towards the Irish, they ran and took cover on a forest clad hill. The huscarles charged the kerns that dared venture out of the forest. A great slaughter followed. Gallowglasses charged out of the forest along with two of the Irish princes. The warriors were caught of guards, and many met Odin. But the Irish were driven back. When the fighting had stopped 896 Irishmen lay dead, 121 were captured and 435 was sent to reside besides Odin. Among the dead Irishmen were their king, prince Niall and prince Donal. That same year a famine ravished Connacht.

In 838 the siege of Connacht ended, 36 Vikings had died during the siege. And Hroald the peaceful became Ruire of Connacht.

In this year was also the Northumbrian province of Cumbri plundered for 3984 florins.

In 839, Prince Sigurd became old enough to lead his own army.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/din/munster21.jpg

In the year 841, Ragnar II once again took up arms against the Irish. In the battle of Munster was King Dermot I chased to his last stronghold, which was expected to last for one year. Ragnars II other son Magnus became old enough to lead his own army. Also the title of Rond Brodir was given to Turgeis.

In 842 loyalists attempting to rescue the Irish king, revolted in Munster. Ragnar II caught up with them and they, seeing that they outnumbered the Vikings with their 2640 men versus the 1402 Vikings, decided to do battle.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/din/munster.jpg

Ragnar II arranged his army on a hilltop, as the rebels, led by an inexperienced general named Triath Muredach, marched up from the valley below. When the enemy, consisting almost exclusively of spearmen and armoured spearmen, was close enough the huscarles charged. Their axes became red with Irish blood, and the spearmen were driven of the field with heavy losses. Mounted reinforcements arrived along with peasants. But when the general was killed fighting from horseback in the woods, the Irish saw that there was no hope and turned one after the other to flight, pursued by the Vikings. With this victory Ragnar became known as a skilled defender. 1289 were killed , 750 captured, 115 know live in Valhalla.

The next year the Stronghold in Munster fell, and with it the Irish royal line and resistance. Ireland was now under Ragnar II’s complete control.

Ragnar II spent the remainder of his life in Ireland, and lived just long enough to see his economic improvements turn the annual loss to an annual profit.

9. Ragnar II was more than just a warrior king. When he died he was also known as a great builder.

He built many shrines to honour the Gods. But the more important buildings were the economical buildings. The yearly losses were almost 1000 florins when his father died, but due to trade in Hordaland, Jutland and Beornice , and goldmines in Ulster and silver mines in Munster, the losses had been turned to profit. 1200 florins were added to the coffers each year instead of subtracted.

10. In the year of 847, Ragnars birthday approached rapidly. He had started sleeping with his sword in his hand after his 56th birthday, so that he would be guaranteed to travel to Valhalla to sojourn beside Odin, the Allfather. And in the night before his 57th birthday he died, after shouting: “Til Valhalla, ok Odinn kominn ek no”. And so he went to Valhalla to once again fight beside his father, his brothers, and the men who helped him subdue the Irish.
http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/din/map.jpg

[The_Emperor]

Great Write up Dîn http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

I'm glad we finally sorted out that image problem...

A couple of names stand out among your commanders,
Gunnar The Womanizer
Hroald The Peaceful

The Last one is hardly the name of a Viking Warrior (Is the first one an alias of Bill Clinton?) http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

[Dîn-Heru]

Quote[/b] (The_Emperor @ Aug. 12 2003,20:41)]Great Write up Dîn http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

I'm glad we finally sorted out that image problem...

A couple of names stand out among your commanders,
Gunnar The Womanizer
Hroald The Peaceful

The Last one is hardly the name of a Viking Warrior (Is the first one an alias of Bill Clinton?) http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif
Thank you.

I tried to make it after pattern of the real sagas, so the writing style is not very imaginative, but more short and describing without detailed descriptions etc.

Hroald the Peaceful, was not so peaceful in battle I can assure you. I think he was given the name out of irony. As for Gunnar, no it is not a alias for Bill Clinton, but a distant ancestor. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

[Monk]

Sigurd is dead after a long and Conflict filled reign. Big king is up next as i have sent the file to him, He is Ragnar the III, named after the conquorer of Ireland and Sigurd the II's father, Rangar the II. may his reign be full of battle and good fortune and may he rest in Valhalla after his deeds are done.

as for me, the write up will be done in a few days complete with screens. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

[The_Emperor]

Ok as of 13:40 BST on 13th August 2003 this is the list...

The_Emperor (King Ragnar I)
Dîn-Heru (King Ragnar II)
Monk (King Sigurd II)
Big King Sanctaphrax (Current Ruler: King Ragnar III)
Kristaps
DrHaphazard
Sprucemoose


Monk Can you please email me save game, I'd like to check on how we are doing.

Looks like we also need some more people to join in... we may be in danger of running out of heirs http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

[Monk]

sure thing Emperor...

file sent

edit: the reason we're not getting to many sign ups is probley due to the current Aragon campaign. once people finish there im sure we will see a few more sign ups here

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Save file recieved. I'm starting on the game now.

[Kristaps]

I'm ready to pick it up after King Ragnar III. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

[Cazbol]

Should there be a need for more players then I'm game.

You should have my email address Emperor.

[DrHaphazard]

I'll play two kings back-to-back http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wacko.gif

j/k, oooh im excited, this is the first pbm game ill ever play.

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Ok sorry about this. I've recently fallen rather ill, nothing serious but i'm not going to be up to playing VI for a while. I don't want to slow play down, so, Emperor, if you could pass the game Monk gave you to Kristaps, I'd be grateful. Cheers. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[Monk]

give me another day on the write up, gonna be good http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif .

BKS: sorry to hear that, hope you feel better soon http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

[The_Emperor]

Sorry to hear about that Big King...

The campaign has been sent on to Kristaps as per your request. I will keep you on the list for a later reign in case things improve...

Get well soon mate http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

Ok as of that change at 22:15 BST on 14th August 2003 this is the list...

The_Emperor (King Ragnar I)
Dîn-Heru (King Ragnar II)
Monk (King Sigurd II)
Kristaps (Current Ruler: King Ragnar III)
DrHaphazard
Sprucemoose
Cazbol
Big King Sanctaphrax

[DrHaphazard]

Sorry to cheer your bad fortune Big King, but YAY only one more till me http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif

[Kristaps]

Got the package. Unzipped and loaded fine. Will work on it over this weekend.

Cheers
Kristaps

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Good to see everyone's enjoying my misery http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] (Big King Sanctaphrax @ Aug. 15 2003,11:23)]Good to see everyone's enjoying my misery http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif
BKS I think its as Longshanks said in Braveheart... As King, you must find the good in any situation.

Just like Arnie... You'll Be Back. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[DrHaphazard]

OOh, i get compared to Edward Longshanks. Take that you poxy Scots

I like how the first chance i get to play will come in the middle of me trying to pack/moving back to school. What timing http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

[Monk]

sorry guys, due to events in Real life i wont be posting my write up today. however i should be able to get it finished and posted by or on sunday, so please just sit tight a while longer. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

[Kristaps]

King Ragnar's dilemma

At the age of 48 he's got two sons and heirs: 27 year old Sigurd who happens to be a chinless wonder with no command stars and 17 year old Magnus the Fat: Even though the younger prince spent his childhood following the king in countless raids on Northumbrian, Scottish and Piticsh lands he grew up a bit overweight. Despite the fact that no viking horse would carry him, the boy displays an extaordinary military talent (8 stars) and all the signs of a natural leader.

Lately, Sigurd has taken liking to slaughering crowds of Picts single handedly: In the latest assault on Dunachton, he and his 5 bodyguards axed to pieces 221 Picts, taking 7 prisoner and routing a bunch...

Since Sigurd is the prime heir to the throne, he would become the king of the Vikings in 8 years. Or... Sigurd could just go on with his rampaging ways until his chinless face catches a bolder from a Saxon ballista... In the latter case, Magnus the Fat would advance to lead the vikings to the final victory.

[DrHaphazard]

Oh please be the fat one, please be the fat one, please be the fat one http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Yeah, the fat one should win just because of his name

[Kristaps]

Last night, the chinless-wonder Sigurd single-handely (nowadays he prefers to wander around with no body-guards) took out a whole rebel village including a bunch of horsemen. His valor as of the last night is 12... This heroic deed happened in front of the eyes of the rest of the viking army http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

I heard rumours that Sigurd would spear-head today's attack on an isolated Saxon province where 4700+ troops are stationed http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

BTW, I'd love to post a few screenshots of Sigurd contemplating his great deeds among piles of enemy corpses http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif However, I don't have hosting capacity right now...

[Kristaps]

A disappointing loss... Last night, King Ragnar lead about 1000 vikings into a province defended by 3000+ Picts. 2500 or so Picts died, but the vikings lost because....... 2 Pictish berserkers got stock on the map border allowing the time limit to lapse... I replayed the battle again (grrrr) and the same result: this time it was a unit of Pictish peasants that got stuck on the edge unreachable for the Huscarles...

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

[TheSilverKnight]

I really love to read these things http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
*ponders for a moment* hey can I play too? *innocent childish look on face* http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif I'd like to pillage villages, and rape women of the British, and..uhh..take my longboats and Vikings to glorious victory over the kingdoms of the British isles http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Cazbol]

I'd say prince Sigurd has earned his kingdom. This kind of heroism is almost unheard of. He can still make use of his overweight brother as a general.

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] (TheSilverKnight @ Aug. 18 2003,20:23)]I really love to read these things http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
*ponders for a moment* hey can I play too? *innocent childish look on face* http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif I'd like to pillage villages, and rape women of the British, and..uhh..take my longboats and Vikings to glorious victory over the kingdoms of the British isles http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Post your email address and I will add you to the list... and then you can pillage, rape & plunder all you like http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Kristaps if you want to kill off Sigurd, the most efficient way would be for him to follow in Prince Harald's footsteps and assault a stone keep singlehanded... The Boiling Oil should do the rest (I'm so cruel)

[Kristaps]

Quote[/b] (The_Emperor @ Aug. 18 2003,16:41)]Kristaps if you want to kill off Sigurd, the most efficient way would be for him to follow in Prince Harald's footsteps and assault a stone keep singlehanded... The Boiling Oil should do the rest (I'm so cruel)
Yes, I'm not SO http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif cruel. I wanted to give poor Sigurd at least 'some' chance http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Also, seems there are two voices for letting Sigurd kill himself and one for letting him rule... As to Ragnar III - he's indicisive... He's grown kind of fond of his chinless son. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Monk]

The Reign of King Sigurd the II

Sigurd lay in his bed in Monoth. After years of fighting he had grown ill and he sensed he was dieing. He began to weep for he would not join his father in Valhalla, the place for all the fallen warriors and followers of Odin, As he lay there dieing his Son Ragnar III walked into his room.

Come forth my son Sigurd said coughing softly

I am here father Said Ragnar as he knelt by his father.

Listen to me my son, as I tell you of the past 32 years…

847: your grandfather Ragnar II died and I, his son, took the throne at the young age of 24. Much had already been done, Ireland was ours and an expedition led into the Northumbrians territory had established a colony for our people. None the less I vowed to do battle with those that threatened our lands

848: I began a building project in Ireland, although it had bee subjugated in the former wars, the positions were weak and the farmlands needed tending. I reordered the troops to re deploy attempted to prevent these Christians from revolting

849: I married your mother, the Daughter of a respected family and a fine woman she was. It saddens me that she died 2 years ago

850: With great revenues of Florins rolling in year by year I ordered the training of a new army, one that would do battle in the northern provinces of the former lands of the Picts. In this year the training program was going well and many had come to take up the sword in our cause.

851: The picts were eliminated by lawless rebels of their own kinsmen, the entire north is now without a leader I saw an opportunity arising, yet out new army was not yet ready for battle so I delayed any sort of an attack. This was a happy year indeed as you Were born my son, from your birth I knew you'd make a fine leader, well worthy of the Crown

852: Our agents in Fib reported that the Scots invaded with a great army, but seeing the threat the local rebels had, they pulled back and consolidated their positions

853: The people of our lands and Ireland call me the Builder, as I have painstakingly built much in my time, I have constructed trading posts and a number of Drinking halls and places where troops can be gathered. The People, be them Thrall or Carl rejoiced. A new son was born, the name bestowed upon him was Harold, your Brother.

854: It was time for battle, we launched a raid into Monoth forcing the local army into retreat, over 5000 florins was hauled off by out warriors, but I saw a greater prize in the lands of the rebels so I decided to fight the siege my self and place the land under my rule.

855: The siege of Abberdean Castle…*Battle flashback*

The day was a cold one and the sky a pale grey color as the rains were loosed on the fields. The defenders of the fort were small in number; still they posed a threat as they had a number of berserkers in their service. I led the advance on the gate myself as Thorin (a leader of the landsmen units) led the landsmen round to the left and broke through the walls, as the walls came crashing down, so was the gate toppled and in we rushed *cough cough*. The Celtic warriors and Peasants put up to real fight and were quickly slaughtered by our professional soldiers. But then the Berserkers charged into battle, Oh it was a glorious battle indeed. As they charged, screaming as loud as a mortal's lungs could they swung their swords up and tried to cut their way through my Huscarls, we showed them that none survive the Viking lord's wrath. We took no prisoners that day as they fought to the very last man.

856: We decided to leave Monoth for the time being as the raid was done, but we burned the nearby town and destroyed all the training facilities that had been left standing after the battle. In this year, your younger brother Cnut was born, not as skilled in war as you, you should take care of him.

857: The rebuilding of our armies was spent in this year. The brief peace allowed me to stay and take care of you and your newborn brother. The days were long and the harvest good, and all in our lands were once again proud and rejoicing as our citizens were the happiest in the North.

858-860: With the main armies raiding in the north, and my own army receiving retaining I decided to journey through our lands helping those in need, I helped some of our people with the farm work and I even pitched my entire bodyguard Unit in helping out, Heh I still remember them asking why they had to work as Thralls, it made them stronger though that’s for sure. In 860 I had yet another son, I named him Sven, I think it suits him well.

861: I once again journeyed to war, and once again I invaded Monoth, however this time it was not rebels we faced but 2330 Pictish warriors all awaiting our arrival on the battlefield, Oh how the cowards ran when they saw our Boats charging from the Mists It was such a glorious day that most of us laughed at their panicked faces running from us.

862: the Picts returned this year and with great numbers, outnumbering us at least 3 to 1. However even though the province was still poor without its farming and agricultural upgrades, we stayed and fought *battle flashback*

The Sea on our right we marched from our camp and to the north west for some time until we met up with the vast Pict army, over 3000 it was, however I wound not run from such men, so we stood our ground, the 700 Vikings. As they came closer to us they loosed their arrows into our lines, some of my men fell, but not many. Their Cavalry was attempting to get around us, however I dispatched a unit of Huscarls to stop them, and the Battle was met. Their celtic warriors charged into our lines blinded by their confidence, we easily cut through them like fallen trees. Even with their second and third waves of reinforcements they stood no chance against our might. They Retreated in disgrace and left the land to us. They lost 1386 of their finest, im sure, and we captured 300 more. Our losses were great as well, 379 of our warriors fell on that day. And being the man that I am, I ransomed their captured back to them. I should have killed them on the spot, but im afraid I am not that sort of King. The people named me a skilled defender after the battle and I heard of of my warriors say I held a Skilled Last stand. Also Erik, Your brother was born in this year.

863: The people of Monoth seem to think they can revolt and win against our mighty forces, the battle was quick and bloody, only 32 of our warriors fell compared to over 500 Rebels, however they aligned themselves with the Picts and joined their ranks, meaning they got a number of 700 new soldiers after the battle was done.

864: a Scottish assassin was caught in Ireland, what he was doing there he would not say, therefore I had him killed and removed his threat for good. Im sure his masters were not pleased about that one.

865: The Heir to the Pictish crown led an attack on Monoth, For such a poor province they sure are determined to get it back, I wonder why *cough cough*. Anyhow this is how it went…

Once again we defended these terrains, but instead of waiting by the shore, we moved inland and ambushed the attacking force in a valley of forests. They were surprised that we would take this move and were caught off guard by the terrain unable to deploy well. The battle was again short and swift; the tactic of using landsmen to halt the enemy approach then use the Huscarls to charge in and finish the job was a fine plan and worked well. Over 720 Picts were killed there in the forests; we captured a number of 216 as they tried to escape. The battle cost me only 91 of my warriors, this time we did not ransom back the prisoners, as they were all killed shortly after the battle ended. This included the Son of the Pict King.

866: you came of age in this year Ragnar; but I don’t think I have to tell you that as you were very anxious to receive your first command of troops. The Northumbrians became enraged by our war with the Picts and invaded Beonic. The general there did well and defended the land well, he killed over 2/3 of the attacking force losing only 130 of his own. Luckily we had strengthened the garrison there the year before.

867: I spent this year building and fortifying our lands, as thre are those who oppose our way of life in its every turn.

868: Harold, your brother came of Age, please Ragnar look out for him, he means well but I fear he may be Over ambitious and to eager to please. None the less I sent him down to Beonic to look after the land for the time being.

869: nothing happened in this year, I took some time to enjoy the Lands of our homelands.

870: we launched an attacked on the Northumbrian province of Dere and took it without a fight. Harold led the attack I believe and was hoping for battle, he was enraged when he had learned the Northumbrians had retreated.

871: Again Monoth was invaded by the Picts, but this time for the last time as I made sure there was nor survivors of the 800 Pict army sent to take the land. As we joined battle the Raider cavalry I had raised a few years before encircled them while the infantry fought, when they charged it broke the back of their Moral and they fled, However only 12 escaped back into their homelands, as 788 Picts were captured and killed. Some say I had Scant Mercy that day, but they will think twice before trying that again I'm sure. However in the south Dere was overrun by a Northumbrian counter attack, strange but the bulk of their army seems to be in the west keeping the welsh in check, I suggest u use that.

871-876: much in this period was lost as the person who was supposed to keep track of these things died of an illness and none realized it. However In 872 we launched an attack on Dere again and retook the province after a short battle resulting in 20 deaths of our warriors and only 95 of theirs, as I said the battle was short.

877: I hired a unit of Mercenary Gallowglasses to take command in Monoth as I departed for home, as I arrived the people rejoiced as I not set foot in Norway in a decade.

878: Pict spy was caught lingering in Monoth, I dealt with his accordingly, it was also in this year that your brother, Erik, came of age and received his first command of Bodyguards.

879: this is the year that it is now, please my son take care. I can feel the life slipping from me, you must defend our people, that is now your duty…..

Ragnar arose, he looked down at his dead father and left the room.

King Sigurd is dead,…its now 880 and Ragnar assumes the throne

Screens will be uploaded later

[DrHaphazard]

Well i never needlessly sacrifice princes, i just live with the hand i'm dealt. Besides this Sigurd fella sounds like quite a bloke. I'll make sure he gets a prosthetic chin when he becomes king http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

[Kristaps]

A great tragedy: King Ragnar III, the ruler of Vikings, Irish, Picts, Scotts, Northumbrians, and, since the death of the last king of the Welsh, a legitimate sovereign of the Welsh lands, was struck down by a divine attack of fever soon after the last castle assault in which he and his trusted bodyguards slayed more than 150 Saxon defenders.

The game will be packed and shipped to the next contender tonight. Royal records of the rule of King Ragnar III will be posted here as they arrive from the battlefield. Since the saxon fleets have been exterminated and the vikings are the sole rulers of the high seas this should not take too long. Meanwhile, white pigeons are delivering Ragnar's last letter to his son and heir Magnus the Fat to the ceremonial castle in Norge as we speak.

P.S.

A year ago the chinless prince Sigurd fell back-stabbed by a gang of cowardly saxon archers... He faught bravely taking 73 enemies with him and sagas about his heroism will be sung for generations to come.

Magnus the Fat - Sigurd's youngest sybarite brother has inherited the viking homelands and more than two thirds of the British isles.

[DrHaphazard]

Well it looks like the job is almost done for me. Luckily ive never played as the Vikings before, so my incompetence will doubtless serve to further the length of this campaign. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

Hmm i probably shouldve practiced with the vikes beforehand. Oh well.

[DrHaphazard]

BTW Kristaps, if you could send it directly to me that might be good. Since i'm leaving for school on Saturday i am hoping to finish by Friday night if God is merciful, if not it might take me a couple days longer while i get everything in order. So i was thinking just in case Emperor didnt check his email tonite i could get the save game that much sooner.

Oh and of course if this is against the rules than please disregard.

dleib@tulane.edu

[Kristaps]

The Saga of Ragnar III Conqueror of the Northumbrians, Picts, and Scotts

Ragnar III ascended to the Viking throne in the year 880 for the prophecy that his father Sigurd II would not live to see his 57th birthday was fulfilled. Ragnar III was 30 years old then. Even though he had a talent for killing proven in numerous battles he was also a charming chap as attested by the wives of other nobles who had been blessed by his royal attention. As a prince, Ragnar had also proven to be a skilled attacker: An experience that would be used to its fullest during his reign.

[Portrait – Young King Ragnar III]

As the young king unrolled the parchment with Viking possessions he realized that thanks to the valor of his ancestors he now ruled all of Ireland and the Viking heartlands; The Vikings had no serious presence in the British mainland though discounting a couple holdings in Northumbrian and Pict territory. A decision was due about the future course of the Viking expansion. King Ragnar was determined to take the empire to new heights of power and glory and hesitance was not one his vices. Once the leaders of all scattered Viking armies from Ireland were gathered in Hordaland, the following list was drawn:

1) Consolidate all Viking armies from Ireland; all ragged veteran units were to be sent to Hordaland and Jutland to recruit and reequip; all complete Irish veteran units were to be sent to British mainland bastions to reinforce the Viking expeditions there.
2) Improvement of the Viking fleet was a high priority since the quality of ships was low and Viking captains reported on an ever-increasing Saxon presence in the seas.
3) To minimize the costs of pacifying Christian vassals in Ireland and other Viking holdings, high quality spies and assassins were to be trained in the Irish province of Connacht.
4) Construction was to be advanced in Hordaland to allow Vikings train the feared Jomsvikings.
5) All mercenary units were to be disbanded to reduce the drag on the Royal Treasury.
6) The Vikings should start a period of rapid expansion; the Pict lands were first to be plundered and subdued: King Ragnar and his bodyguards were to set sail for Orcades, Lord Olaf, Ruire of Munster was to lead a raiding force to Cait.

881: This was a glorious year indeed: the Picts fled from Orcades as soon as the sails of Ragnar’s Drakkar appeared on the horizon. His fine bodyguards burned, raped, and plundered for three days and nights to yield 9054 florins. In Cait, the Picts ran screaming like women once they understood they were no match for Lord Olaf whose fame of executing all captives had preceded him. Having plundered 2150 Florins, Olaf and Prince Sven decided to enjoy the Pict hospitality in Cait for the winter and burn the fort of Clyne as soon as the ice melted the next spring. A few units sailed to Orcades though to help the handsome Ragnar in pacifying the local vixens and enjoying the comfort of Kirkewale. In the same year, out of sheer foolishness the Northumbrians decided to invade Dere garrisoned by Floki’s force of three hundred vikings. The general lived up to his fame as being very effective on the battlefield: his unit alone killed 217 enemies and captured 5. What remained of the Northumbrian expedition, once one thousand men strong, fled to Elmete. Floki’s heroism and talent in selecting strong defensive positions was duly noted and rewarded by Ragnar as he was promoted to serve the king as the Earl of Dere.

In this year, another happy event took place: the king’s eye was caught by the ample beauty of Ulrike: a daughter of a noble Viking leader sharing the war spoils with Ragnar in Kirkewale. The king married before the seasons changed. But Ragnar’s spirits were not pacified for long: Before the arrival of spring he gathered his trusted bodyguards and the men of Grim Tryggvasson and Fridgeir Hardrada to invade Domon where, at the time, a rebel force numbering 950 was plundering the remains Pictish wealth. The king’s spies had notified him that the rebel bunch was lead by an usurper named Drust Macarthgail displaying no military talent whatsoever; Drust’s leadership abilities also were not helped by his habits of engaging in epic bouts of drinking that lasted for days at time. Before setting the sails for Domon, the king secured a good number of Irish veterans to rule the peasants of Orcades in his absence.

882: Invasion of Domon – as predicted, the drunkard Drust MaCarthgail was caught by surprise: his disorderly line of 900 peasants and 60 highlands men was swiftly struck by the Vikings. King Ragnar himself killed 380 Christians in this battle gaining valor and fame. Grym Tryggvasson was unstoppable. Firdreid Hardrada ended the misery of the self proclaimed King of the Isles with a swift blow of his axe. In the end, 800 islanders were killed for the loss of 16 Vikings. The king’s army camped for the winter to enjoy the spoils of the raid while Lord Olaf successfully led his forces to victory in the assault on Clyne fort. The fort and motte were preserved to serve the Viking cause in the future. All in all, more than 6000 florins were pillaged during this season. The king’s Treasurer was rejoicing. Most of the loot had to be spent celebrating the birth of Ragnar’s son – Magnus though.

On king’s orders assassins were killing Saxon bishops in all our Irish colonies.

883: King Ragnar leads the assault on the village of Stornoway in Domon – 165 rebels killed at a cost of 5 raiders. As the village was burnt to the ground he expedition found more than 3000 florins stashed away in the place were the house of Drust MaCarthgail used to stand. As the king’s bodyguards were collecting the gold, a messenger brought the news that the people of Domon have found a new leader in the person of Gartnait Boyd. Their forces of 800 spearmen were to arrive at Stornoway early next spring. The ambitious Njal Grimsson and Sigrygg the Womanizer were sent to raid the Welsh in Defet to help the Treasury to recover from the last year’s celebrations.

To be continued

[Kristaps]

King Ragnar III’s letter to Magnus the Fat

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

Dearest Son,

During our assault on the Lindissi keep a divine strike of fever made me feel so weak that I had to request Lord Thorkel to take over the command duties of our attack. Feeling weaker with every passing hour I sense the inevitable. But now, that my eyes have seen the demise of the Saxon power in Lindissi I can depart to meet with Odin with honor.

I leave you, my son, the lands of the Vikings, Irish, Scotts, Picts, and Northumbrians to rule. Now, that the Welsh have disintegrated into unruly gangs and the peasants of Guent and Sumorsaete, having lost their faith in the Saxon order, have entrusted their fate and fortune to Mercian usurpers, it is upon you, my son, to take the Viking to their final destiny to rule all of British Isles. Before I join my forefathers and my dearest son, Sigurd in Valhalla, here are a few notes that should help you start your reign.

Following my orders, Erik Yngvarrsson has completed the construction of a royal court in Hordaland, enabling us to train the formidable Joms Vikings. Use them wisely to deliver nightmares to our enemies

Christian peasants turn unruly at times, especially if encouraged by enemies. Our high valor spies and assassins trained in Connacht have proven to be highly effective in keeping our vassals in check and providing us with timely warning about potential disorders. Recently, a spy from Regett reported that this former Scottish province had as of lately turned quite disloyal: lowering the taxes and maintaining a number of spies in the province solved the problem. These measures might need to be continued for some time though. Also, as you well know, the provinces of Cerniu, Defnas and Lindissi have just been conquered: the local sentiments are not very loyal to the Vikings there…

I have to tell you about one of my blunders. I have always felt that the quality of the Viking cavalry inherited from your grandfather was too poor. As of lately, I have been trying to improve the fighting ability of our horsemen in Munster. Alas – in vein: Munster turned out to be a leprechaun infested place where horses just didn’t breed right and building advanced cavalry training facilities turnout out to be impossible. However, even though they lack valor, Viking raiders recruited in Munster now carry better weapons and armor. Ulster would have been a much better choice for this operation though.

Note, my son, that Saxons have amassed more than 5000 troops in Wrocen Saetan and Mierce: these might strike at will against our armies in Dere or Pec Saetan. Since Lord Grettir, Thane of Cawdor, a nine star Viking general is in charge of our army of veterans in Dere, I am not too worried about this province. It would please me if Saxons were foolish enough to strike against us in Dere. What worries me is the ability of our general Lord Hrafn in Pec Saetan. A few summers ago, a Saxon spy revealed that Hrafn had only one grandfather: this revelation proved to be devastating for our general and he lost three command stars in just two years. I would suggest you depart to Pec Saetan hastily to take control of our defenses there personally.

Once the Saxon hordes meet their destiny at the hands of your huscarles, the lands of Southern British Isles are yours for taking. I would suggest splitting our main armies in Pec Saetan Dere, and Lindissi to achieve this goal in the fastest manner but you are wise enough to decide for yourself. On the last note, I have greatly improved the Viking fleet and we now control all high seas allowing us to strike any seaside province at will. Our countless slipways, boat-builders and docks should be able to supply your empire with all the ships it might ever need.

I greet you as the King Magnus I, the new ruler of Vikings, Irish, Scotts, Picts, and Northumbrians


Ragnar III

----
Chronicles of the reign of Ragnar III will be posted as soon as they arrive from the battlefields of Lindissi.

The save game has been sent to DrHaphazard and the Emperor.

[DrHaphazard]

Quote[/b] (Kristaps @ Aug. 19 2003,16:03)]I'm afraid, Saxons will use their 5000+ troops stationed right next to our borders to try to regain some ground in the next year (usually the AI attacks right after any change of Monarchs). The viking border troops should be able to handle this wave though... Under skillful leadership, of course http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
We're doomed http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

File recieved by the way and i shall begin ASAP.

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] (DrHaphazard @ Aug. 19 2003,21:37)]BTW Kristaps, if you could send it directly to me that might be good. Since i'm leaving for school on Saturday i am hoping to finish by Friday night if God is merciful, if not it might take me a couple days longer while i get everything in order. So i was thinking just in case Emperor didnt check his email tonite i could get the save game that much sooner.

Oh and of course if this is against the rules than please disregard.

Sadly I didn't get mutch of a chance to check my email last night... I was a bit busy.

Its ok to forward the game on to the next user on the list to increase response time, Just as long as I get sent a copy so i can see how things are going for us...

I'll check it out when I'm back from work tonight.

But here's the list as of 20th August 2003.

The_Emperor (King Ragnar I)
Dîn-Heru (King Ragnar II)
Monk (King Sigurd II)
Kristaps (King Ragnar III)
DrHaphazard (Current Ruler: King Magnus I)
Sprucemoose
Cazbol
Big King Sanctaphrax
TheSilverKnight

EDIT: TheSilverKnight you have been added

[TheSilverKnight]

e-mail address is chrisspolanski@msn.com

I want to rape and pillage..and..stuff I like to be viking http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[DrHaphazard]

Well work has begun on Magnus' reign. I can't promise anything but i still hope to be finished before i need to pack my computer up on Friday to go to school.

I did have a question though, how should i handle any pictures i want to include in my report? I could attempt to use my free Tulane webspace but im not sure if pictures would link off that. I'll see how that works.

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] ]I did have a question though, how should i handle any pictures i want to include in my report? I could attempt to use my free Tulane webspace but im not sure if pictures would link off that. I'll see how that works.

I can host any pictures if you have trouble... just email them to me & make sure there are no spaces in the filenames.


TheSilverKnight you have been added to the above list.

[DrHaphazard]

Oops, one more question, should i attempt to shrink the battle pictures, and if so what program is best for that?

EDIT: Oh and also if so, should i shrink it to 75%, 50%?

[Kristaps]

Quote[/b] (DrHaphazard @ Aug. 20 2003,14:13)]Oops, one more question, should i attempt to shrink the battle pictures, and if so what program is best for that?
Tell us rather how did the battle against 5000 Saxons go? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

[Monk]

5000 saxons = Bloodbath http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/shock.gif

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

anyway lets hope thats how it ended

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] (DrHaphazard @ Aug. 20 2003,20:13)]Oops, one more question, should i attempt to shrink the battle pictures, and if so what program is best for that?
I find that Paint Shop Pro 7 suits my needs... but it depends on what you prefer.

[DrHaphazard]

Quote[/b] (Monk @ Aug. 20 2003,14:23)]5000 saxons = Bloodbath http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/shock.gif

anyway lets hope thats how it ended
Uh...yeah...about that...ya see the funny thing about bloodbaths is they can go both ways... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

On the plus side things are proceeding apace, however i think it unlikely that moosey will be able to play after me. However a 15 stack faction reemergence has just occured so...

[Kristaps]

Hey, who reemerged and where? Mercians already did is it the Welsh?

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Quote[/b] (Kristaps @ Aug. 21 2003,06:40)]is it the Welsh?
Heh heh heh...We'll get you boyo

[DrHaphazard]

Quote[/b] (Kristaps @ Aug. 21 2003,00:40)]Hey, who reemerged and where? Mercians already did is it the Welsh?

EDIT: Wait a second I'm not going to compromise my beautiful plot line by telling you the who what and how. Oh, well i already told you the what but that was just to build up suspense.

[Kristaps]

Quote[/b] (Big King Sanctaphrax @ Aug. 21 2003,06:37)]
Quote[/b] (Kristaps @ Aug. 21 2003,06:40)]is it the Welsh?
Heh heh heh...We'll get you boyo
Boyo? I'm the spirit of Ragnar III: the worst nighgmare the Welsh ever have had...

In my boyo years I was exterminating Welsh princes: For that, the Welsh dinasty turned into a dynasty of ghosts

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] (Big King Sanctaphrax @ Aug. 21 2003,12:37)]
Quote[/b] (Kristaps @ Aug. 21 2003,06:40)]is it the Welsh?
Heh heh heh...We'll get you boyo
Are you behind this Big King? Does the Welsh King have the Big King Tash? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/dizzy.gif

[DrHaphazard]

Well the deed is done my hearties. See this is what you can accomplish when you take two days off of work to pack and get no packing done. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

In any case, a write-up will ensue, but first i'm going to cook me up a brace of hotdogs.

By the way, do yall like pictures? Cuz i got a lot of pictures...42 so far http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

[DrHaphazard]

I'm working on it' I'm workin on it. Aight Emperor, i wasn't sure what you're email was. The best i can figure out its this...

ralphwolf@hotmail.com

If thats not right then let me know cuz that is the address i'm sending the pictures too.

Uh yeah, there's kidna a lot of pictures, but i like pictures and I've made sure that they're not ungodly large files. The whole package is 1.6 MB, i hope thats ok with you. I'll see about not using all the pictures, but since this is my first write-up i'm trying to go for gusto.

EDIT: Oh, and if you haven't gotten my email by tommorow afternoon please let me know. My email service is unreliable at best.

[The_Emperor]

the hotmail one should work, but ralphwolf@clara.co.uk is my main one.

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Quote[/b] (The_Emperor @ Aug. 21 2003,19:05)]
Quote[/b] (Big King Sanctaphrax @ Aug. 21 2003,12:37)]
Quote[/b] (Kristaps @ Aug. 21 2003,06:40)]is it the Welsh?
Heh heh heh...We'll get you boyo
Are you behind this Big King? Does the Welsh King have the Big King Tash? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/dizzy.gif
Yep-He's my second cousin from the valleys

[DrHaphazard]

Well i don't know why but my webmail couldn't send the message to your hotmail account. I'm going to try with your .uk account this time.

[sprucemoose]

hehehehe

is it my turn soon?

oooh er i want to bash the brits

[DrHaphazard]

sorry spruce, the British isle has been completely subjugated. There really wasn't left for me to do but push over an already toppling Saxon kingdom.

[DrHaphazard]

Well ive decided to release the first half of my story given the very real probability that it will be a while before i can complete the second half. Well ive tried to do some unique stuff, let me know what you think because i'll try and use the succesful techniques again in future write ups.

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

[What follows is a compilation of excerpts from that worthy man Godrum of Guent, Mercian Ambassador to King Ragnar III and later to King Magnus I, rulers of the Vikings. Certainly not every note, petition and digression needs be brought to your attention, so a summary of the good ambassador’s records have been provided for your education. The Mercians occupy the light blue area of the map while the Saxons control the red portion.]

The Year of our Lord 906:
I have arrived at the camp of King Ragnar III, leader of the Vikings at the behest of my lord, the King of Mercia. I have taken up this task begrudgingly as it almost certainly will cost me my head. I have the dubious task of trying to secure peace for the war ravaged people of Mercia…

Alas, Ragnar III was struck down by the curse that has dogged his family for generations, dying suddenly and perhaps mysteriously in his 56th year. I thought I was making good headway with this man in striking up a peace treaty between our two peoples. Now all my hard earned spies and costly bribes will be for not as his successor will certainly employ new retainers and servants more to his liking. Of this man, Magnus I have heard much, indeed it was impossible to speak with the old king but to hear of this man’s prowess on the battlefield. I have yet to meet he who they call The Fat and I grow tired to think of having to make another good impression…

The Year of Our Lord 907:
http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/map907.JPG
http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/KingMagnus.JPG

King Magnus I of the Vikings has certainly made his new reign known far and wide. Unlike his father who remained a devoted seaman and captain to the end of his days, Magnus loves to keep his feet on solid ground. To this effect Magnus has cancelled many of the ships under construction and those that were planned to be built. He has also stopped the construction of shipyards and those proud creators of the Viking warships grumble to now be reduced to creating humble fishing vessels. Magnus clearly fears no attack at sea since no one has the temerity or even the resources to construct boats of war.

I have not yet ascertained the economic state of the Viking kingdom, but they seem to abound in money since building projects and new fighting units are springing up everywhere. Much of the lands are poor since the Vikings razed most of them during the conquering and obviously if the Vikings are rich it is because of the spoils of war, not because they are wise merchants or grand farmers. Magnus has made attempts clear land for farming and improve semi-fertile land, but still his main thrust is to war.

The Year of Our Lord 908:
http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/map908.JPG

My lord, the King of Mercia was obviously wise in sending me as the ambassador. My long service in the army of my king has left me with the scars of a soldier, and there are few things the Vikings respect more than the old warrior. I have met King Magnus I and drank with him in the Mead Hall as we talked of battles of yesteryear. Truly he is fat as people say, but his eyes are shrewd and his wit is quick. He is obviously too clever by half and I must watch myself, especially after a long night with a drinking horn. He seems indifferent to talks of treaties with the Mercians but has displayed no anger either…

Also in this year, hoping to take advantage of confusion over the death of King Ragnar III, the King of the Saxons brazenly marched forth into Dere, with a force outnumbering the Viking at some 10 to 1. I was not personally in attendance at the ensuing conflict, but I hear of the great feats of valor preformed every night in the Mead Hall. I grow disheartened at the news of this impressive victory and I ponder even now how the good people of Mercia could ever hope to defeat this seemingly inhuman race.

[Historical note: The Battle for Dere in the Year 908 was indeed a stunning victory for the Viking army as the Saxons very foolishly marched to battle against that wizened commander Lord Grethir, Thane of Cawdor, greatest of all the Viking commanders with a total of 9 gold stars to his credit. Although the Vikings were indeed heavily outnumbered by the Saxons as you can see below the true ratio was much closer to four Saxons for every Viking. Perhaps the Saxon king Egbert II hoped that his mere presence would bolster the confidence and fighting spirit of his troops thereby ensuring victory. He was mistaken…]

http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/Dere908.JPG

[…While the first wave of the Saxons closely matched the makeup of the Viking army, they were simply not as well led. Several units of Saxon Huscarles very foolishly charged the Viking line ahead of the main force. Archers whittled away at their number and then they were engulfed by the cruel Viking axemen. The Saxon King himself rode boldly forth straight at the Viking general Grethir but he too was engulfed…]

http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/DereKing908.JPG

[…The King of the Saxons certainly lacked nothing in courage as he neither flinched nor attempted to run despite the obvious bad turn of events. Unfortunately he and his men inflicted few casualties and King Egbert II must have died a desperate and frustrated man. With the fall of their valiant but misguided king the Saxons wavered and finally broke as the Viking Raider Cavalry finally smashed into their archers. A few units of Huscarles, the Berserkers and the Cavalry were allowed to chase after the fleeing men, but the rest were called back to preserve their strength. The two units of Huscarles that were hit the hardest, down to 2 and 5 men respectively, were highly praised on the battlefield for their courage. They were allowed to retire with the cheers of their comrades to tend to their wounds which were many and deep.]

http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/DereCatapult908.JPG



http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/DereFinal908.JPG

The Year of Our Lord 909:

In this year the Vikings, in search of a steady source of income have attacked into the province of Guined on the western coast of our Isle. The copper is plentiful there and even though the rebels tired to destroy the mine as they retreated it is being rebuilt for use by the Vikings. I am continually impressed how many Viking warriors can be called up in merely a year and thrown at a province.

My king continues to steer a wise course as the Mercians maintain giant armies in the two provinces we do control. Perhaps the Vikings will be dissuaded from attacking my people for this simple reason. I see Magnus rarely now as he is more often in council than the Mead Hall. My new spies are unfortunately not placed close enough to the king to be near these late night gatherings. I must redouble my efforts on this front in order to learn of Magnus’ plans…

The Year of Our Lord 910:
http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/map910.JPG

Since my lord has not seen fit to recall me and since my work seems hampered near the Viking King I have decided to go on a tour of the Viking lands which are indeed extensive, especially compared to the small but valiant kingdom of my homeland. The Vikings are indeed a murderous and terrible people, but confusingly Magnus has done much to help those that are under his sway. Certainly many martial buildings have been constructed so that new warriors might be instructed in the Viking way, but there are also signs of improved agriculture in the works all across his kingdom. Certainly this will benefit the Vikings’ coffers, but it has also makes the conquered people of these lands happier and less likely to revolt.

Of course there is a more sinister side to this “happiness” as well. In every province there is a network of spies among the locals in order to inform the king and his chosen governors of any possible rebellion. An interesting mix of happiness and fear of reprisals keeps the locals in line. Trained assassins also can be found near and wide ready to do their master’s bidding. I have made several contacts in my journeys and for the right price they have agreed to keep my appraised of the situation in their homelands.

And I would be failing in my commitment to my king if I were not to mention the terrible pagan rites that are practiced in the north. Sacrifices to Odin are common, the better if the victim is a recalcitrant Christian, thereby spreading fear and undermining His followers. I cannot speak of the horrors I have witnessed and I pray even now that by some machination the Christian armies might rid our beautiful isle of this menace.

The Year of Our Lord 911:

As I explained in previous years a huge number of buildings are being constructed and new warriors trained. This has undoubtedly strained the budget of the Viking king as he has again taken up the practice of raiding into enemy territory. Thankfully it is the Saxons who felt the brunt of this attack, but every new departure of raiders could be headed towards my homelands. The King Magnus seems displeased now by my constant entreaties and suggestions of a solid peace treaty. I must try a different tactic in the future…

The province of the latest concerted Viking raid, Suth Seaxe, has been leveled, with no building left standing. Despite orders merely to conduct a raid, the leader of the expedition, Lord Sigmund of the Northern Isles, decided to stay and fully destroy the Saxon forces in the province. Vikings are not meant for drawn out sieges and so catapults were drawn up and an assault of the simple fortification was made.

Victory was all but assured, however I heard that Lord Sigmund conducted the assault poorly. Certainly the siege equipment leveled many buildings, but when it came to assaulting the defenders the Vikings were overly confident. Many greedy Viking Thralls rushed in too quickly only to be met by the capable axes of the Saxon Huscarles. The defenders fought valiantly and with desperation, killing more than their fair share of Vikings, but the contest was uneven and the site left a charred ruin.

http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/SSeaxeBurning911.JPG

The Saxons in the meantime have made use of their immense wealth to bribe the rebels on the borders of the Viking lands. I do not know the sum that changed hands, but the force of archers and spearmen that they bought, though large, will surely not stand up to a determined Viking charge…

In the Year of Our Lord 912:
http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/map912.JPG

Lord Sigmund has once again ignored Magnus’ order to return. This display of impetuosity might serve my King well and I have begun a detailed report about the disposition of all the Viking commanders, hoping to find some weakness the Mercian armies might exploit.

In this case however Viking greed proved more than worthwhile. Sigmund brazenly, given his poor battlefield performance, attacked straight into West Seaxe. This is the capital of Saxon lands and immensely wealthy, producing 1,000 florins of worth a year. So fearsome were the Vikings, or so cowardly were the Saxons that not even a fight was put up for this most important province.
With glee the Vikings summarily razed everything and the loot and slaughter was tremendous. Spoils equal to a full 5,000 gold pieces was sent in humble servitude to the King Magnus I With so amazing an amount sent home, one can only imagine the amount of the loot that was kept by the soldiers themselves. Sigmund and all his men are undoubtedly rich now, and that will make them all the more loyal to this Lord of the Northern Isles.

[Historical Note: In this our worthy ambassador was mistaken for the amount of treasure sent to Magnus equaled not 5,000 florins, but 10,000 florins]

In the Year of Our Lord 913:
http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/map913.JPG

A Mercian warship has appeared off the west coast of our beautiful isle Oh it brings joy to this old soldier’s heart to see the great uproar this caused in the Viking court as they rushed warships to the area. I have managed to convince Magnus that this measly ship poses no threat to his powerful warships, but the Vikings remain wary. While I am glad to see the Vikings fear us still after all the years, I wonder at the plan my King is hatching. Certainly we cannot hope to defeat the Vikings at sea. I hope he does not mean to antagonize the Vikings for we would surely lose Oh I have been away from my homelands too long and I no longer know my king’s mind. Why did he not inform me of this fateful move?

Also, fearful that the Saxons will buy the loyalty of all the remaining rebels, Magnus has grudgingly agreed to attempt a bribe himself. The leader of the “rebels” of Drefet is none other than Lord Hywel, whom I had fought along side now nigh twenty years ago How he came to be ruler of this province I know not, but an able commander he is with 5 gold stars to his credit. I wonder what his reaction to the bribe will be…

In the Year of Our Lord 914:
http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/map914.JPG

Lord Sigmund of the Northern Isles continues his raiding party deep in Saxon territory. Not content to stay anywhere for long he has invaded East Seaxe, leaving West Seaxe black and barren. No Saxon army has dared to meet him since he burned the Warrior Hold in Suth Seaxe. Lord Grethir, that old fox of Dere, has grown restless and attempted to join Sigmund’s forces, and indeed lead it. But Sigmund rebuffed him soundly and Grethir had not enough men to assert his authority. Sigmund’s men are indeed loyal to him. The Viking king seems pleased by these turn of events, liking Sigmund’s fire and commenting that, though and able commander already Sigmund could use more victories…

Now Sigmund faces a choice however, all the rich land is now guarded by at least one full army of Saxons. It will be interesting to see if he returns to smash the small armies of the poor provinces or will daringly attack into the heart of Saxon power. Also interestingly my spies inform me that the loyalty of the Saxon generals is extremely low. Perhaps Sigmund needs do nothing and his enemies will fall to bickering amongst themselves…

Again I fear my King has blundered. He has decided to claim West Seaxe for himself. While it no longer makes the money it once did it is still suitable farming land. I fear however that this will serve only to anger the Saxons who also made an attempt to reclaim it but pulled back on seeing a larger Mercian force. I fear that the huge armies that keep my people safe will be spread too thin to repulse either a Saxon or Viking attack…

On a humorous note, the bribe that Magnus so begrudgingly set was rejected A full 4,000+ florins was offered if my sources are correct, an immense sum for an army the Vikings could easily defeat. Magnus was so furious he split the oaken table before him with his grand axe. Having stooped to bribery the king could not stomach the insult of rejection. While I was amused at the old Viking’s discomfiture I cannot help but feel that my old comrade in arms, Hywel, will suffer greatly for his defiant gesture…

In the Year of Our Lord 915:

Having found the Saxons unwilling to give battle in East Engle and unwilling to embark on a lengthy siege of the keep Sigmund was forced to look for a new opponent. Sigmund now roams free like a rabid dog. Utterly fearless and unpredictable, all are afraid to stand in his way. Confident in his men’s loyalty and fighting prowess Sigmund seems determined to bring his foe to the ground. With this aim in mind he has set sail around the whole of the Isle and landed in Pouis, home to three full Saxon armies, and more importantly, to the new King of the Saxons Harold II.

In choosing this target Sigmund has acted wisely. The troops stationed with the king are mainly inexperienced spearmen and rebels newly bribed into the army. These will make easy fodder for Viking axes. This Harold is known to be a sybarite, eating too much and wearing too fine a clothing, very foolish for one whose kingdom is being ravaged. No one dares jest about this upstart Saxon’s weight problem, however, since they are unsure of their own, shall we say, “expansive” king’s reaction.

I have also received secretly the information that my own sovereign wishes to attack the Vikings sooner than later. Year after year I have sent him intelligence warning of the inhuman fighting ability of these terrible Norsemen. I cannot fathom why My Lord Jesus should suffer for good Christians to fall so easily to these pagans, but surely that is not for me to know. In any case, my warnings seem to have the opposite effect of what I intended, and my good king is determined to attack before the Vikings grow stronger. Since I have done all I can to dissuade him from this course I must now endeavor to keep the news from Magnus for as long as possible. I will remain in his court until shortly before the planned attack to keep up the appearance of friendly relations. If God be merciful then by this deceit perhaps the Mercian armies will win a miraculous victory over these savages.

In the Year of Our Lord 916:
http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/DrHapVI/map916.JPG

My life is forfeit, as truly it has been these past ten years. I flee even now, but the chances of a true escape are doubtful. I have much Viking land to travel through before I reach the Saxon border, but even should I reach that my fate is uncertain, since the Vikings raid deep, and the Saxons are no true friends of Mercia. This shall be my last entry in this journal until I have reached safety. I only write now because I have nothing else to do traveling as I am disguised as a merchant in a cargo train. Alas I hear the Vikings headed north tell of spectacular victories and cowardly enemies. I know this can herald only the destruction of the proud Mercian kingdom.

I have instructed my last remaining servant to take this diary to my King Offa II of Mercia if I should be caught or killed, so that my sovereign might know I have done all in my power for him and his people…

[i]The diary was indeed delivered to the King Offa II by our good ambassador’s servant. The old ruler mourned deeply this sad delivery, for he regretted not only the death of a faithful vassal, but also the greater catastrophe that had taken place…]

[sprucemoose]

boo hooo

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif

[The_Emperor]

Ok guys, in case anyone was wondering this campaign has officially come to an end... I think we are still awaiting the last write up from DrHaphazard of the final victory of King Magnus I over the British Isles and the conclusion of this saga.

So here is the final line of Viking Kings and the years of their reigns in Command of the Marauding Vikings

The_Emperor (King Ragnar I)793 - 822
Dîn-Heru (King Ragnar II)822 - 847
Monk (King Sigurd II)847 - 880
Kristaps (King Ragnar III)880 - 907
DrHaphazard (King Magnus I)907 - 931

Now The Russian Campaign carries the flag... Until the next one http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

[sprucemoose]

At last a PBM that is complete

well done chaps

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

[Mount Suribachi]

DrHaphazard I really like your write up. An interesting perspective to describe the reign from and very well written to boot. Great job http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Now get on with the 2nd part http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

[Dîn-Heru]

DrHaphazard, when will the rest of the story continue?