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The_Emperor
02-02-2004, 16:07
Hi everybody.

The results are in and Italy is up next...

v2.01 (VI with patch)
Italy, Early, Expert
Glorious Achievement mode
writeups requested

I will manage the list of players.
The Savegame will be transferred via the PBEM filespare at the Org.

Org PBEM Uploader (http://www.totalwar.org/Downloads/Uploaders/pbmupload.php)

Given the success and popularity of the French PBEM GA Campaign I have set a similar set of rules for this one...

1. GA Goals always come first
Now GA goals are the first priority of all our Rulers and we shall strive to meet as many as we can, this includes keeping our homelands defended, and re-conquering lost ones.

2. Wars of agression
Kings may declare war at will against any faction to re-take any lost homeland province. However we must obey the Pope while doing it, so if he warns you to stop, YOU STOP (Italy is the heart of Christendom so we have to try to behave ourselves), Defensive wars are ok. And no exploiting the Pope's bug of only being able to warn for one faction at a time.

Excommunicated Catholics, Muslim and Pagan Infidels (via small Crusades only) and Rebels are fair game for conquest... In a addition I will allow the sacking of Constantinople between 1200-1205 with a Crusade army to reflect what happened in history with the actions of the Fourth Crusade, just to add a little spice to things (Just as long as you can convince the Pope) http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

3. Helping Allies
I will allow us to aid our allies if they are having a spot of bother, given we ARE a Naval faction we should be able to break sieges to help out. However we can't go to town on a faction just because they are attacking our allies... And the Pope's warnings still have to be obeyed.

4. The Holy Guy Next Door
The Papacy can be a troubling neighbour with its own expansionist agenda in Italy. Should we come to blows with his holiness we can retaliate to take back our homelands... I would also allow us to take some of his lands from him in such a venture (to reunite the Italian peninsular), but we CANNOT wipe his faction off the map. Also we must sue for peace as soon as possible and shake Excommunication status, any kings who fail in this task will certainly be going to hell (and in an age of absolute Faith and Piety, it certainly is something to be avoided)

5. Role Play your king
Try to play your reign as close to your king's personality as you can. If he's merciless, kill all who oppose you. If he's a coward, shy away from battle and towards diplomacy. If he's Pious, Launch Crusades towards infidels, a Zealot invest effort in the Inquisition... etc

6. Write ups and Titles
As with most PBEMs, write-ups are required. I know you can all produce some very good ones, so don't be afraid to strut your stuff. Each king will also be assigned a title like in the French PBEM.

Thats it for the rules. You can wake up now http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-sleep.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-tired.gif

Ok thats it, place your name below if your interested. And above all else... Have Fun http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cheers.gif

econ21
02-02-2004, 16:21
Sounds good, Emperor - count me in
simon.appleton@nottingham.ac.uk

Revenant69
02-02-2004, 17:19
Quote[/b] ]Given the success and popularity of the French PBEM GA Campaign I have set a similar set of rules for this one...

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-blush.gif Thx Emperor. What can I say, I learn from the best http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cheers.gif

Oh yes and please sign me up for this game. You have my email right?

Rev

PS I especially like the rule about Constntinople. Oh, another thing. Are you going to have a rule about helping our allies? I think it would make things much more interesting.

The_Emperor
02-02-2004, 17:35
Glad to have you both on here http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif


Quote[/b] ]PS I especially like the rule about Constntinople. Oh, another thing. Are you going to have a rule about helping our allies? I think it would make things much more interesting.


Good idea, if our allies are besieged we shall be allowed to intervene by landing a releif army... But outright conquest should be limited to make for a long and enjoyable campaign. And of course we still have to watch for the Pope's warnings.

And in case I forgot to mention it, Excommunicated Catholics are fair game http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Revenant69
02-02-2004, 17:43
Quote[/b] (The_Emperor @ Feb. 02 2004,11:35)]And in case I forgot to mention it, Excommunicated Catholics are fair game http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
With crusades I presume? Because otherwise it maybe just too easy to conquer excommed catholics. I dont know, you may want to add these rules to your top post to keep them in one place (just a suggestion LOL)

Cheers http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cheers.gif
Rev

The_Emperor
02-02-2004, 17:59
I have clarified the rules. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

The_Emperor
02-02-2004, 19:59
Alright guys, The Year is 1104AD and Doge Vitale II is dead...

Long Live Doge Vitale III (The Great Warrior & Drinker)

I will upload the Savegame to the Org's PBEM Slot shortly. Sadly no new conquests to our name as everyone else beat me to it with the Rebels.

The Pope squashed the Rebels in Naples, and the Byzantine Emperor invaded Serbia the same time we did fortunately I had enough sense to call off the Attack rather than facing Kats and Byz Inf with Urban Militia http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/eek.gif

The_Emperor
Doge Vitale II (1087 - 1104) The Merchant King

Simon Appleton
Doge Vitale III (1104 - ? ) The Current Ruler of Italy

Revenant69

Mount Suribachi
02-02-2004, 20:24
I'm there mate http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

Monk
02-02-2004, 20:42
sign me up too http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_bow.gif

Mysterium
02-02-2004, 21:12
Hey there -

I'd like to sign up, but I reserve the right to back out if it looks like I'll totally embarrass myself. I'd love to try, but don't want to stall the whole game for everyone.

Love the write-ups I've read in the Throne Room, btw. Hoping I can be up to snuff.

Edit: add e-mail. REMOVEshumway@ureach.com

Revenant69
02-03-2004, 03:44
Great, looks like this campaign is gathering forward momentum http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif

Major^3
02-03-2004, 04:15
i'll give it a shot

The_Emperor
02-03-2004, 10:39
Great to see the campaign taking off... With luck this should turn into an interesting campaign.

By the way expect my write-up tonight The Life and Times of Doge Vitale II, Trader, Builder and father of two Sons with drinking problems http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cheers.gif (evidentally too much alcohol was imported by the Traders)

The_Emperor
Doge Vitale II (1087 - 1104) The Merchant King

Simon Appleton
Doge Vitale III (1104 - ? ) The Current Ruler of Italy

Revenant69

Mount Suribachi

Monk

Mysterium

Major^3

The_Emperor
02-03-2004, 22:27
The rule of Doge Vitale II
An Analysis.

The rule of Doge Vitale II is difficult to study because of a lack of accurate historical evidence from the time, however fragmented documents from Rome regarding the upheaval of events in Italy have survived.

From what we can discern from the few clues, Italy was emerging slowly into the World in 1087. The Italian Peninsular was split in three during this time, with the Italian Doge in command of the north, the Papacy controlling Rome and the surrounding territories and Byzantium maintaining a foothold in Naples.

The Pope of the day Urban II called a great assembly, Doge Vitale II is said to have been present and swore to re-take the holy land, however there is no way to verify these claims as they are found in the archives of Italy, and are not without bias.

Sources from Constantinople are concerned mainly of the loss of Naples to fanatical Catholics and ignore most events but the Byzantine scholars did record that trade flourished during this time, Doge Vitale sent many ships to trade with the Empire in Greece and the surrounding area.

Most of the Italian trade however seemed to be with their sicillian allies to the south. It is known that the heavy taxes from trades did much to fund the construction of several buildings in Northern Italy, The most spectacular of which was said to be the Chapter House in Venice.

Doge Vitale had two sons in Prince Vitale and Prince Orso, and fragmented accounts point rumors that they were both heavy drinkers who personally enjoyed the extra abundance of goods from abroad.

Records also tell of a planned attack on Serbia which for reasons unknown never got underway. A Source in Constantinople has stated that the invasion was actually launched and that men in many small boats were seen off the Coast... However these facts have been regularly disputed as records from The Vatican and Italy do not mention the launch of any such ships or the gathering of such a large force.

One thing is certain though, Doge Vitale II did intend to Crusade towards the Holy Land and expended great effort towards such a goal, indeed all preparations were made, an army was assembled. It was even noted in Constantinople that an Alliance was sought with the Turks to possibly get safe passage towards the Holy Land... But such a deal is dismissed as unlikely.

Doge Vitale II died in 1104AD leaving his eldest son Vitale as Doge despite the whisperings and concerns about his drinking habits, and before he was able to finish his plans for a Crusade to the holy land.

Doge Vitale II would later be known as The Merchant King for his extensive efforts in promoting trade in his realm, we must also take into account of the heavy taxes that were placed upon merchants of the time and that much of the revenue passed back to the Doge to fund his preparations for the planned Crusade.

econ21
02-03-2004, 23:01
Doge Vitale III lurched into the throne room, surveying the alarmed courtiers with a glassy eye. The Chamberlain of the Major Council hurried over to his side, taking his arm and he leading him to his seat.

Everything is in order, Sire. We have retrieved all the maps, seals and other tools of state from your late father's estate.

Vitale looked at the Chamberlain with amused disinterest. The Chamberlain shifted uneasily.

The Council wishes you every success with the continuation of your father's policy of expanding trade links to the Levant.

Vitale's eyes narrowed and he rose angrily to his feet, drawing his sword. The Chamberlain stood back appalled, as the monarch swayed like Goliath just struck by David's slingshot.

My father ... my father was a fraud. He persuaded you good gentlemen to pay taxes to fund his fleet with the promise of profitable trade. ... He played you for fools. I ... I am not so subtle. I tell you now, those ships are for one purpose only: to take our armies to the Holy Land and drive the infidel from there, or die trying

After this outburst, Vitale looked forward into mid-air disbelievingly, as if seeing some garish vision, and then tottered back onto the throne. His sword clattered onto the stone floor.

The Chamberlain came forward, shaking his head head almost imperceptibly: where would this new Doge take the Kingdom?

econ21
02-03-2004, 23:11
They say that Doge Vitale III killed Lord Tankerville, my predecessor as Chamberlain of the Major Council. Lord Tankerville died in 1105, a year after the succession. Killed, not by the hand of the new Doge but by the strain of having to cope with such an intemperate and irresponsible master. For twenty years now, I have watched over Vitale, humouring him with offerings from our finest vineyards in Tuscany. I have had the pleasure of witnessing the procession of dubious Princes from his house – the perverts, the strange, the crack-brained and the chinless wonders.

In truth, the Doge himself was easy to deal with. For all his posturing about the Holy Land, he could never summon enough energy to lead a crusade – not even when the Holy Father twice excommunicated the perfidious Sicilians. He acted like a preposterous and indecent figurehead to the nation, whilst in the antechambers of his palace the real business of ruling the country was carried out by hard-headed, calculating Venetian merchants. These rational men have made the country rich, with Venice alone bringing in 2500 florins each year. They turned Corsica and Sardinia into islands of ship-builders, launching fleets to expand our lucrative trade routes.

But the petty-minded merchants did not foresee the price of their profits. Seeing only the expense, they limited our armies and allowed only Tuscany to be devoted to the training of soldiers. They thought riches could only be traded, not plundered by force of arms. Thus, as our treasury rose, our neighbours looked at our lands enviously and sharpened their swords.

Two years ago, in 1123, the inevitable happened. Our supposed allies, the Germans, having made peace with their enemies the French, turned their attention south and marched an army of a thousand men into Milan. Our garrison numbered scarcely over one hundred and was forced to take refuge in the keep. Our other irstwhile allies deserted us in droves, with only the Papacy, the Hungarians and the Poles remaining true.

For all his faults, Doge Vitale III was not a man to decline a fight and mustered an army to retake Milan. The Germans withdrew, denying him a chance to prove his valour, but the next year the Germans struck here, at Venice, the heart of our kingdom.

Unlike the luckless governor of Milan, I was ready for them. Even the penny-pinching merchants had seen the importance of defending our capitol and I could muster an army of a thousand men. The Germans attacked with twice that number but their leader, Lord der Bar, was a lacklustre nonentity who provided no inspiration to his men.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/Venice6.jpg


I deployed on the Venetian plain, waiting for the German army to march down from the mountain passes. The German army was composed mainly of spearmen and archers, so I decided to harry them with my Milanese mounted crossbowmen. The Germans marched stolidly on, ignoring the bolts flying from both flanks.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/Venice5.jpg

As they approached my lines, the enemy halted and deployed archers. We then engaged in a long duel, from which both sides suffered grievously. The centre of our lines, held by stout-hearted Feudal Sergeants from Tuscany, was mauled and more than half of the Sergeants slain.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/Venice4.jpg

When our archers had exhausted their supply of arrows, I was forced to attack. Two of Vitale’s Princes were ordered to reinforce the mounted crossbowmen and begin to envelop both flanks of the German line, while I ordered a general advance of our infantry. Across the plain, both Germans and Italians charged into a general melee.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/Venice3.jpg


Amidst the carnage of battle, our Feudal Sergeants began to waver. Then I ordered in the cavalry positioned on both flanks. The mounted crossbowmen scattered the archers to the rear of the German line while the knights charged into the side of the enemy spearmen. The battle was decided - the German lines began to collapse from the flanks inward.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/Venice2.jpg

In the chaos, the German leader, Lord der Bar, fell - precipitating a mass rout, during which our horse captured over seven hundred men. Not wishing to go through a similar ordeal in the future at the hands of the same men, I ordered all the captives put to death.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/Venice1.jpg

News of my triumph was sent to Milan, but on arrival the messenger found the Doge dead, lying in a pool of his own vomit. The new Doge, Jacopo I, is proficient in the art of personal combat but a young man of questionable resolve. But with open warfare upon us, I have cast out the merchants from the palace. By my sword, I swear I, Lord de Medici, Duke of Corsica, Chamberlain of the Major Council, will add iron to the soul of our young leader. Together we shall make the Germans rue their treachery

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/Jacopo.jpg


[out of character: Savegame file, The Italians 1126 PBM, uploaded. Have fun, Revenant69]

Revenant69
02-04-2004, 03:50
Quote[/b] ]News of my triumph was sent to Milan, but on arrival the messenger found the Doge dead, lying in a pool of his own vomit. The new Doge, Jacopo I, is proficient in the art of personal combat but a young man of questionable resolve. But with open warfare upon us, I have cast out the merchants from the palace. By my sword, I swear I, Lord de Medici, Duke of Corsica, Chamberlain of the Major Council, will add iron to the soul of our young leader. Together we shall make the Germans rue their treachery


Hehehe, a fitting death for a drunkard isnt it? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif I LOVE the fact that de Medici family has been worked into the story. Hopefully I wont dissapoint you with my escapades involving them LOL Once again an awesome writeup Simon Appleton and Emperor

Well, I guess I better download the game and start playing then eh? Hmm, Great Warrior and Chinless Wonder - I think I have an idea on how to roleplay him. Too bad he is married already, otherwise I was going to marry him to one of his sisters (and the Pope doesnt give divorces http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif )LOL

Cheers, gotta go play,
Rev

Revenant69
02-04-2004, 08:13
Err.....I have some news guys. It is Good news / Bad news scenario I'm afraid. I really didnt know what to think of it. So let me know your thoughts and how I should proceed.

Good news: Well the good news is that I started the campaign and played for about 7 years so far. There was so much going on that honestly I can fill a couple of posts already and from the looks of it I will have to. The kingdom that I inherited was threatened on many fronts: from the South by a massive Sycialian army next door to Venice; from the North by the ever eager hordes of German vikings and from the East by a menace of Hungarian invasion.

Well in the first year of my reign, in order to reduce the strain on our garrisons I managed to capture Provence. We were attacked by the Germans (during Simons rule) and so I felt that a little compensation was in order. With Provence ours I stopped further aggression against the Germans but they were reluctant to sign any treaties. Now, I didnt get any warnings or anything from the Pope (at least I cant remember getting one). All was good. I managed to please the Pope on a couple of occasion (details will follow in writeups - they are too juicy). Kingdom was looking on an up and up. To put it in short - the Kingdom was doing fantastic and I have accomplished a lot. And then...........




Bad news:
The Germans decided to be outright bastards. They had a massive 3000 army sitting in Burgundy menacing our borders. What do they do? Well, at the same time as sending their massive army against me they also declare a crusade to Antioch. Crusade was also located in Burgundy. Now the numbers of German bastards in Burgundy are swelling to 4000.

Mind you, Germany and us are still at war - although no hostilities happened for many years.

So, they decide to march WITH their 3000 strong army AND WITH their crusade into my province of Milan. So, at the very end of the turn and after seeing their massive invasion of MY territory, I get approached by a messenger asking the German crusade to pass. LOL http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif WTF?

What insolence I couldnt believe they asked such a thing They ask their crusade to pass and at the same time they invade my province (with a crusade as well)??? Well, needless to say that the head of the messener was delivered to the Germans in a bloody basket.

I fight a very tough battle and manage to absolutely slaughter their army and majority of their special crusading units. Ragtag remnants of the German invaders flee back to Burgundy.

On the next turn the Pope himself says that he cannot tolerate this kind of aggression towards fellow catholics and...WHAM.....I am excomunicated. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/angry.gif

I was so pissed. I didnt break any rules of the campaign (I think) played defensively after grabbing one of their provinces, was a model Christian. The only thing I did was to refuse their crusade to pass through my lands. Mind you, Germans and I were already at war and if I let the crusade pass then the 3000 strong army would occupy Milan and who knows where the Crusade will go next, maybe Venice.

Arrrrrrrggggggggg, I am so frustrated. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mad.gif
I dont know what to think right now. I am training some assassins so hopefully I can persuade the Pope to lift this horrible and unjust label. Unfortunately it will screw up my plans for the Sycilians. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

I guess, it wil make for one hell of a writeup won't it?

Excommunicated Rev

PS. I guess if I wasnt at war with the Germans then none of this would've happened. Tricky bastards

Mount Suribachi
02-04-2004, 08:42
lol, refusing a crusade ain't a good idea when you're a Roman catholic http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Still, clever tactic by the AI - you either lose Milan, or you get xcommed.........

BTW, congrats on 500 posts http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

*Hands Rev the keys to the executive bathroom* http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-toff.gif

Revenant69
02-04-2004, 08:50
Quote[/b] (Mount Suribachi @ Feb. 04 2004,02:42)]lol, refusing a crusade ain't a good idea when you're a Roman catholic http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Still, clever tactic by the AI - you either lose Milan, or you get xcommed.........
I usually never refuse crusades, but in this instance it was either me keeping Milan or letting their crusade rampage through my territories. Moreover, we were at war already so I thought it was a good choice to stop their crusade cold.

Damnit, its going to come in again, I know it - because zeal in Burgundy is 78% and it has already gathered nearly a full bar of recruits. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/angry.gif

So what do you think I should do? I stopped playing the game for a bit to get some output from you guys cuz I feel kind of bad for excomming my Doge LOL (even though the damn AI tricked me)


Quote[/b] ]BTW, congrats on 500 posts http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

*Hands Rev the keys to the executive bathroom* http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-toff.gif

Hehehe, thanks Mount http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif
*hides the key in a very secure location*

Brutal DLX
02-04-2004, 10:57
Bad mistake. You could have let them take Milan and the retake it after the crusade has moved on. I thought excommunication was to be avoided by the rules of this campaign? And refusing trespassing rights is a 100% excommunication. Anyway, just a little comment..

I enjoy reading the excellent writeups, but I don't have talent for this myself and I don't know if my German MTW version would mess up the savegames if I participated. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Revenant69
02-04-2004, 11:10
But I was already at war with them Really, Italy would have folded like a house of cards if the crusade was allowed to rampage through our territory. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

Revenant69
02-04-2004, 11:16
JACOPO
Tragedy,
a play written by an unknown author.

Main characters:
http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/story/Rev_Jacopo1.JPG http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/story/Rev_de_Medici.JPG http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/story/Rev_cast.JPG

PROLOGUE

Venice on a nice spring day. People are buzzing everywhere, flowers line the streets and fanfares can be heard in a distance. The smell of expensive perfumes is in the air. Today is the coronation of Jacopo the First the new ruler of Italian kingdom. The streets are lined with people who want to take a look at a new Doge as his procession nears the Church of St. Polo. Common folk and wealthy people mingle together as such a rare occasion (Jacopo's coronation) will be talked about for many months after the event has passed.

The sound of hooves beating on cobblestone draws near...
Finally an open top carriage drawn by eight richly adorned horses emerges from around the corner. There, in all splendour and beauty of his youth, sits a young man adorned in very nice clothes and a jeweled breasplate displaying the family coat of arms. The high polish of silver and gold that adorns the breastplate shines like a bright light further lifting young man's image. On his head there is a laurel to symbolize his title as an Imperator of Rome, although nowadays its true meaning is perhaps lost to most people. Next to him sits his beautiful young wife.

The young man smiles affectionatly and waves his hand to greet the crowd. The crowd, supercharged by all the waiting and excitement, goes berserk and tries to break through the cordone of ceremonial guard in order to shake the young man's hand. The cacophony of their shouts and greetings is almsot disturbing to the ear.
The young man utters one phrase as excitement and cries of jubilation fill the air.

God Bless You

People, common folk and wealthy, merchant and soldier, fisherman and stonemason alike explode in a chorus of admiration and praise.

He spoke to us He spoke to us

The carriage, now bombarded with bouquet's of flowers, pulls away and proceeds down a straight stretch of road that leads to the Church of St. Polo.

Perhaps I should stop here and explain to you why our young soon to be ruler is so lovingly admired. Unlike his predecessors, Jacopo stands out as force of change. He is very young, just turned twenty this winter, very ambitious and has some good looks about him that set him aside from the rest of the portraits in the royal gallery. He is rumored to be unequaled in personal combat and this inspires his men to follow him into the Abyss and beyond. Such qualities are rare and yet they persist in him. Perhaps people need change and they believe that Jacopo can deliver it to them. Perhaps they think that he is capable of restoring public faith and order in the kingdom. Perhaps they are right...

The carriage zooms into the Church courtyard as neatly alighned trumpeteers sound Jacopo's arrival. At the footsteps leading to the Church of Saint Paul, or Polo as he is known here, stands a delegation of various state functionaries, royal family members and some foreign dignitaries. Trumpets sound again. The carriage slowly approaches the base of the Church and finally stops. Jacopo steps out holding his wife's hand and helping her get out of the carriage.

Hail mighty Jacopo
as they raise their spears high in the air and then slam them into the stone walkway, altogether creating an almost terrifying sound.

As Jacopo aproaches the stairs of the Church, holding his wife's hand, the two of them give a courteous bow to the assembly ahead. The bow is returned, but not by all. The Archbishop of Venice only bows to God Himself you see, and perhaps to the Pope as well. The Archbishop, an old man by the name Don Bernardo Paganelli is a good christian despite his surname. Noone dares tease him about his not so fortunate family name, although perhaps he was teased enough before he became Archbishop. Next to Archbishop Paganelli, on his right, stands a smiling lady in her early thirties. She is Jacopo's older sister Brunilde.

Ah, brother...You look splendid

Jacopo answered only with a wide smile. To Archbishop's left there stands a tall man. It is Lord de Medici, the Duke of Corsica and Chamberlain of the Major Council. He was a very powerful and important person in the government of Jacopo's father Vitale and, some say, will probably remain an important and influential figure in Jacopo's court. Behind the three of them there is a throng of other government beurocrats and foreign dignitaries.

Archbishop Paganelli motions to Jacopo to proceed inside the Church and everyone else follows.


.......................................
Hehehe, all the characters introduced so far actually started the game in Venice. Dont believe me? Check it out for yourself (download the game from the ORG) http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
PS. Simon Appleton, do you know the name of Jacopo's bride? It would be cool if you did http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif Would help me develop a story (especially if she was a foreign princess).

Brutal DLX
02-04-2004, 11:22
Quote[/b] (Revenant69 @ Feb. 04 2004,10:10)]But I was already at war with them Really, Italy would have folded like a house of cards if the crusade was allowed to rampage through our territory. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif
I understood that part..But a crusade isn't really like an invasion army. They would have either headed for your port city or taken the land route, you just need to shift your troops around so they won't get sucked up too much by that crusade. Whether one is at war with a faction or not shouldn't have an influence on crusade business, unless you are excommunicated already, then you could do whatever you wish. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Revenant69
02-04-2004, 11:26
But they also sent a 3000 strong invasion army in support of the crusade - thats invasion LOL.

Brutal DLX
02-04-2004, 12:20
Yeah, and you retreat to your castle and on the next turn start the counter attack..where's the problem? Of course that's a clever move by the AI, but unless you are of very low influence, your empire shouldn't go into civil war by giving up one province temporarily. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-yes.gif

econ21
02-04-2004, 13:33
Quote[/b] (Revenant69 @ Feb. 04 2004,04:16)]PS. Simon Appleton, do you know the name of Jacopo's bride? It would be cool if you did http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif Would help me develop a story (especially if she was a foreign princess).
Sorry, Revenant - I don't recall. Your question reminds me of the end of a Simpsons episode where the children are shipwrecked on a desert island ... And the children were rescued by ... oh, I don't know ... let's say by Mo...

Checking my few savegames, Jacopo was already married at the tender age of 16. I suspect the bride was a Sicilian - with a large batch of Princes, I was often hunting brides, but usually fruitlessly. Must have been the crack-brains, strangeness, absence of chins etc. But the Sicilians said yes several times. They also wanted to form an alliance, although I always sided with the Pope.

On the issue of the crusade, you had a real dilemma. Given the circumstances - a simultaneous German invasion - I don't think your decision violated the role-playing spirit of the campaign. It sounds the likely outcome in real life (esp. with friendly fire etc).

In terms of gameplay if you could beat the crusade as you did, then your decision was probably wise. I know the kingdom was very fragile when I left it but it has the resources to grow strong if given time. I find retreated crusades usually stall, making abortive invasions that are no threat and so will actually bleed Burgundy dry. The excommunication will hurt our crusading GA in the short term, but if you concentrate on building up a formiddable army (probably required given the war with Germany), your successor may be able to successfully carry out the crusades in time.

PS: Good move taking Provence - that was on my to do list

Revenant69
02-04-2004, 13:49
Quote[/b] ]Sorry, Revenant - I don't recall. Your question reminds me of the end of a Simpsons episode where the children are shipwrecked on a desert island ... And the children were rescued by ... oh, I don't know ... let's say by Mo...

LOL http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif So true...Well it would have added to the immersion of my writeup if i knew bride's name and origin. I guess the fact that she is probably Sicilian will have to do.

Oh, I aslo forgot to mention one important fact that led me to decide to stand fast and guard the Alps LOL See, my ruler was....uhhh...marooned...uhhh...this reminds me of a Simpsons episode..... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif
Fact is he was actually marooned (you will have to hear more from my writeups), and the loss of Milan would probably crumble my House of Cards that was Italy.

Whatever the case is, the decision was very tough one to make (for me at least). The other thing is I forgot that the Pope excomms you when you deny a crusade, its been a long time since I played a catholic and dealt with crusades (denying crusades as non-Catholic doesnt bear the same penalties).


Quote[/b] ]I know the kingdom was very fragile when I left it but it has the resources to grow strong if given time. I find retreated crusades usually stall, making abortive invasions that are no threat and so will actually bleed Burgundy dry
Yeah it was even more fragile 5 years after your reign ended LOL As I mentioned that Burgundian crusade is already gathering enough troops that it could hit again, with force. And 78% zeal in Burgundy will make it hard for the crusade to go away, thats for sure.


Quote[/b] ]PS: Good move taking Provence - that was on my to do list
Hehehe, glad to be of service http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif

econ21
02-04-2004, 14:36
Quote[/b] (Revenant69 @ Feb. 04 2004,06:49)]As I mentioned that Burgundian crusade is already gathering enough troops that it could hit again, with force. And 78% zeal in Burgundy will make it hard for the crusade to go away, thats for sure.
If the chapter house that spawned the crusade is in Burgundy, I wonder what would happen if you did a slash and burn raid into the province? If you destroy the chapter house, the crusade may disappear. Sounds like something Lord de Medici would contemplate...

Revenant69
02-04-2004, 14:39
Quote[/b] (Simon Appleton @ Feb. 04 2004,08:36)]If the chapter house that spawned the crusade is in Burgundy, I wonder what would happen if you did a slash and burn raid into the province? If you destroy the chapter house, the crusade may disappear. Sounds like something Lord de Medici would contemplate...
Uhhhh, with what troops? I have enough to guard the Alps, not enough for a raid as majority of my armies are occupied elsewhere.....I really dont wanna give stuff away. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-juggle.gif

Anyway, back to the writeup. The next 3 pieces will be up in a few hours, pictures will follow shortly after that. Perhaps after I post them, the situation will be clarified somewhat LOL

PS Lord de Medici is contemplating many things right now .... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif

Revenant69
02-04-2004, 15:47
JACOPO
...............
PROLOGUE (continued)

Inside the Church of St. Paul. The choir is singing and the Archbishop himself is conducting a Mass. After quite some time, he finally motions for Jacopo to approach a large stand with one very heavy Bible resting on it. The Bible is bound in leather and covered in gold, truly worthy to accept a solemn oath of a Doge. The singing stops as Jacopo approaches and kneels before the Archbishop, placing his right hand on the Bible.

The time has come for you, young Jacopo, to give your oath to God and to your future subjects.
I humbly wait to do so.

The absolute stillness gripped the large church. One could hear a fly buzzing and hearts beating. The Archbishop seemed to enjoy this tense moment, but he proceeded.

Then so be it. Do you, Jacopo son of Vitale, admit here, before God and the Holy Church, that you will be a faithful servant of the Church and promote Her virtues and spread Her faith wherever the Almighty may deem to do so?
I do so swear.
Do you, Jacopo son of Vitale, admit here, before your subjects, that you shall protect them from harm and disease, from war and strife and from any unjust thing that may befall them?
I do so swear.
Do you, Jacopo son of Vitale, accept here, before the Almighty God and your subjects, this burden to be a ruler and protector of our kingdom?
I humbly accept this burden.

At this moment the Archbishop reached down to remove the laurels from Jacopo's head and replaced them with a jeweled crown. The crown, although not large, was bristling with light as the sunrays danced off of the many facets of different jewels. The sight was truly inspiring and breathtaking. None dared say a word.

Then, by the power of the Almighty God and our Saviour I proclaim you to be the ruler and protector of Italy and bestow this crown together with the title of Doge unto you, Jacopo the First.

The choir starts singing again and the ceremony reaches its finale. As everyone redies to head out of the massive church doors, Doge Jacopo the First, together with his beautiful Sicilian wife, leads the way out. He is closely followed by the Archbishop Paganelli and the Chamberlain de Medici. Lord de Medici is eyeing Brunilde, Doge's sister, as she is a short distance ahead of the Lord. To tell you the truth, his eyesight rarely left her during the entire ceremony. One might surmise that the Chamberlain is very fond of Brunilde.

As Jacopo steps out of the church, a mighty number of trumpets sound. The ceremonial guard raise their spears in the air and slam them into the ground exclaiming:
Hail Doge Jacopo the First Hail Hail Hail

The noise of trumpets and guards is soon drowned out by the cheers of the crowd.
His jeweled crown sparkling in a miriad of different colours, and his family armor shining like a beacon of Truth, Jacopo steps into his carriage waving the crowd goodbye........

The_Emperor
02-04-2004, 16:16
Sounds like your having quite some fun there...

Excommunications are something to be avoided in this Campaign, and you must do everything you can to bring Italy back into Christendom befoe your King's Death.

I also feel that I brought this upon us by refusing to side with the French when their war broke out with the HRE...

The other interesting thing is that with such High Zeal provinces and a large navy our lands are going to be Crusade central

Should be interesting, trying to stay on the right side. (and please try to)

Revenant69
02-05-2004, 04:35
I am sorry for excommunicating my Doge, at the time I didnt know what to decide. I dont like reloading savegames either, so I marched on with whatever bad stuff was in store for me. Hopefully my Doge can redeem himself http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-oops.gif

Needless to say I am taking all measures to be reinstated as a good Catholic http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
I hope something can be learned from my ordeal, namely that the AI can really trip you up when you are not expecting http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif

Rev

PS. I have added some pics to my writeup on page 1.
PPS. There, I also changed my title to reflect the current events LOL
PPPS. Anyone know if it is possible to use TAB spacing when posting writeups? It would make the whole thing so much more readable.

Revenant69
02-05-2004, 06:36
JACOPO
...............
ACT 1
The Calm before the Storm

Venice on a very rainy day. A door opens and into the royal office there steps a tall man followed by a throng of deputies. They carry bundles of parchments and maps. In the corner of the room, near a fireplace, in a very comfortable chair sits Jacopo sipping on some French wine. He notices the arrivals.

Lord de Medici Isn't it a nice day to be sitting near a fireplace and sipping some nice French wine? This rain is very depressing to say the least.
Yes, it is a horrible day, Your Majesty. But the matters of state can be put off no longer.

He bows in recognition, the deputies follow suit. However, Jacopo is reluctant to move from his chair. Few minutes pass and Jacopo manages to finish his glass of wine. Finally, seeing the quiet crowd stand near his desk, Jacopo rises from his so ever-comfortable chair and strides forward to his desk. See, a month has passed since the coronation and besides meeting foreign diplomats who congratulated Jacopo, he hasnt done much at all. It seems he wanted to live in the moment of euphoria that was his coronation. But things cannot last.

Fine. Let's do business then.

de Medici motions for the deputies and they pile up various scrolls, parchments and maps on the desk and leave the room. Lord de Medici and the Doge of Italy are now alone.

Tell me, Lord Chamberlain, how does our kingdom fare?
Well, there are many things to say and many things that need to be said and all of them should not leave this room. Where shall I begin, Your Majesty? Would you like to inquire as to the state of our army, our finances, our allies or our enemies?
Hmm ... tell me about our finances.
Thanks to your late father, the Royal Treasury has substantial reserves of florins and the taxes on our and foreign merchants bring in over 2000 florins annualy. The matter of farming is a bit neglected and, if you permit me to say so Your Majesty, I am surprised that peasants do not starve and die. The salt and silver mines of Corsica and Sardinia are already operating at full capacity.
So what should be done then?
I suggest that we keep taxing the merchants and that we improve our farming infrastructure. It is possible that we could make a hefty profit even from farming alone.
This sounds good to me.

Lord de Medici then hands a piece of paper for the Doge to sign. The next question raises Jacopo's interest.
So then, tell me of the army. I want to know all about it.
Ahhh, well there are many things about the army Your Majesty. I could perhaps summarize this for you.
Fine. Proceed.
Well, the army is mostly comprised of town militia and such. However, we finally managed to recruit some feudal nobility. Our cavalry forces are currently lacking heavy horse, although we do have plenty of mounted crossbows. And at a moments notice we could recall the sailors from Genoa, I hear they are increadible marskmen.
Hmmm....Lack of heavy horse and lack of solid infantry makes us vulnerable indeed. What about my vassals? I need them to start sending the required quotas of men.
Your Majesty, only the lords of Tuscany are able to supply you their quotas. Everyone else is said to be using their men to watch the Alpine passes.
Fine. Tell the Tuscans to do so. And what is this business with the Alps? Are the Germans on the move again?
Well, Your Majesty, this brings us to the issue of diplomacy. As you know, your late father's war with the Germans was not concluded and I hear that Germany is enlisting vast units of Vikings into their ranks. A dangerous foe Your Majesty.
Ahhhh...I know about the Vikings. I've read about them as a boy and I've heard all their tales. If what you say is true, then we are in a spot of trouble indeed.

At this point, the fiery temper of this young warrior is beginning to burn inside him. He begins to pace around the room, his fist clenched.

Vikings have one weakness... Order conscriptions of more Milanese crossbowmen, the mounted ones. And you, Lord de Medici, shall have a task to perform
How can I be of service, Your Majesty?
You are going to head an invasion force into Provence. Take some town militia conscripts from around Italy, plus your Corsican levy. I shall also designate the entire army here in Venice to be under your command. When everyone is assemlbed, strike hard towards Marseille
But....but, Your Majesty, this would leave Venice undefended
Hahaha, my Lord de Medici. You have served my father well. Now, trust me as you've trusted my father. Didnt he assemble a crusade, ready to strike the unfaithful?
Ahh... well... sort of. The crusade is almsot ready. It just needs approval from the Pope and it needs to be assigned a leader and also additional troops are also necessary.
Hahaha, no leader needs to be found. I, Doge Jacopo the First, shall lead the army of the faithful to reclaim the Holy Land Perhaps after Jerusalem flies the flag of Italy, perhaps then those other imbecil kings and leaders shall finally respect me instead of thinking me for a fool. Nobody will attack Venice when the crusade is here

Jacopo said this in a very loud manner, no doubt some deputies who were listening at the door could hear this. And so it was, that the news of the crusade has left the room before the conversation was over.

Y-your Majesty, what you propose is very dangerous. Many a peril lie on the road to the Holy Land. To leave so ... soon would bring this enterprise to its swift end.
Perhaps you are right ... in part. I shall wait till I muster sufficient forces. But, think about it...What could be more glorius then the ruler of the kigndom leading a crusade to reclaim the Holy Land??? A thing like that will be put into tales.
Your Majesty, I may have a suggestion then.
Go on then.
We could enlist the help of some...mercenaries.
Nah, they cost too much money.
But...but there is a way to ...uhm... reduce their costs.
How do you propose we do that?
We could recruit them in Milan and tell them to assemble here in Venice. Their trip here would be paid. Once they are here and are enlisted into the crusade...
Yes?...
See once they are a part of a crusade, then they are on the payroll of His Excelency the Pope and so we do not need to pay them until the crusade ends.
Hhaha, Lord de Medici....That is one ingenius solution. Fine, do what you must with these mercenaries. Once they are recruited, set sail for Marseille.

The meeting adjourns shortly afterwards....

econ21
02-05-2004, 12:25
This is getting intriguing, Revenant - interesting story, I'm looking forward to the next installment

Revenant69
02-05-2004, 15:38
Quote[/b] (Simon Appleton @ Feb. 05 2004,06:25)]This is getting intriguing, Revenant - interesting story, I'm looking forward to the next installment
Hehehe, thanks Simon. The next installment will come today. I have played quite a bit. Unfortunately being excommed put a dent on all my plans so I didnt do as much conquest as I wanted to http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif Hehe, things tend to calm down when you cant crusade.

Also there was ... an unforeseen death http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif I'll just leave it at that. It kind of puts a dent in the story but oh well. (you may have to wait a bit longer for explanation of that).

I should be done the game in a few days. Hopefully I can upload it before the weekend.

Cheers,
Rev

Major^3
02-06-2004, 19:11
due to real life issues, im gonna have to withdraw from the list http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-oops.gif

The_Emperor
02-06-2004, 22:22
Quote[/b] (Major^3 @ Feb. 06 2004,18:11)]due to real life issues, im gonna have to withdraw from the list http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-oops.gif
Thats too bad Major^3. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

Ok guys here is the list again...
A Title is Needed for your Doge Simon

The_Emperor
Doge Vitale II (1087 - 1104) The Merchant King

Simon Appleton
Doge Vitale III (1104 - 1126 )

Revenant69
Doge Jacopo I (1126 - ?) The Current Ruler of Italy

Mount Suribachi

Monk

Mysterium

econ21
02-06-2004, 23:41
I fear it has to be Doge Vitale III the Unready.

The_Emperor
02-07-2004, 00:12
Quote[/b] (Simon Appleton @ Feb. 06 2004,22:41)]I fear it has to be Doge Vitale III the Unready.
and I thought it was going to be Vitale III The Piss head http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cheers.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif

Aleksandr Nevsky
02-07-2004, 02:04
I am a pretty good player but I've never played PBEM before, but if there is room and you don't mind a noob to PBEM and you guys aren't too far along to allow any new players, could I be on the playlist?

If yes my e-mail is geea@cc.wwu.edu

Mount Suribachi
02-08-2004, 09:26
I'm afraid I'm gunna have to cry off on this one. If I'd had it last week I could have done it, but I've got too much stuff going on the next few weeks.

I'll still keep popping in to keep an eye on things tho http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-inquisitive.gif

The_Emperor
02-08-2004, 18:18
Ok Mount, you can always come back later on.

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

The_Emperor
Doge Vitale II (1087 - 1104) The Merchant King

Simon Appleton
Doge Vitale III (1104 - 1126 ) The Unready

Revenant69
Doge Jacopo I (1126 - ?) The Current Ruler of Italy

Monk

Mysterium

Aleksandr Nevsky

Revenant69
02-09-2004, 10:56
Okey dokey. I have finished my reign as Doge of Italy and the new Doge is Enrico I. He is quite a charmer LOL with Irritable, Scant Mercy and Oozes Charm as his v&v's.

Italy is ahead of everyone else in GA points but not by much. The expansionist ideas of HRE have been laid to rest as they no longer have the Holy Roman Empire glory goal. Our kingdom is currently in a very strong position. We have the capability to train the awesome Italian infantry in Tuscany and in Venice (1 turn away), although we still lack heavy cavalry. But besides the lack of heavy cavalry our armies have been greatly expanded and modernized (in most cases).

The fleet has been seriously expanded and even the losses in the recent war with the Sicilians did not dent our numbers greatly. The Sicilians still run a blockade and so have to be dealt with. Once the blockade is lifted we can once again start making 5000 florins a turn (hopefully).

Well, on one other important note, Doge Jacopo died a re-born Christian LOL (I have screenshot evidence of this). Although the details of my recommunication will be discussed in more detail in my writeups. Oh, and if anyone wonders what happened to that German crusade that it was sitting in Burgundy....well it seems that the Germans have learned from their experience and marched overland bypassing all our territories and eventually ended up taking Antioch without a fight. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif Oh, and the French crusade has taken Edessa LOL

Well, thats that. The savegame has been uploaded to the ORG (with 1160 tag in it). My writeups will be done in the next couple of days.

Cheers,
Rev

PS My Doge should be the Savior of Jerusalem.

Monk
02-10-2004, 19:42
I guess it falls to me now to lead the Italian people to further glory. I've recieved the gamefile and will start playing asap. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

Monk
02-11-2004, 04:40
Just to let you know i have started:

I have played three years into the campaign and already a lot has happened. I will finish this up tomorrow.

The_Emperor
02-11-2004, 09:28
Great Stuff guys, I will also download the savegame and post a few maps and stuff to give us an overview of the situation.

Goodluck Monk http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

R'as al Ghul
02-12-2004, 11:03
Hail Thee Emperor,

compliments for the excellent campaign write ups of your own and your fellow Kings. Great fun and inspiration
My question is if you've any experience with players
who use different language versions?
Brutal-DLX and myself who've German versions might be/ are
interested in joining these glorious campaigns to secure ourselves a place in paradise.
Is it posible for us to muster or will it mess the savegames?
Cheers

Revenant69
02-12-2004, 11:41
My humble understanding of this game's mechanics suggests that you may be able to join us and play. The fact that you have German versions just means that your game is localised in German - ie it is translated and the translation files are all located in LOC folder somewhere in the MTW directory (please dont quote me on this though as I am not the expert on these matters).

Well I did one thing to help me see stuff better and it involved changing a file in the LOC folder. All I did is change the description This province is famous for its Blah BLah, units of this type trained here gain +1 valour to something much shorter +1 valour bonus to Blah Blah - this helps me see stuff straight away. Anyhow, the point is that changing of files in the LOC folder doesnt affect the game mechanics, it is only a folder with descriptions (once again dont quote me on this LOL) and so since the German version just translates all the terms from English to German (and is limited to LOC folder) I really dont foresee a problem.

Feel free to correct me if I am wrong, as I said I am just a newb modder. But it is my humble opinion that you guys can play http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-balloon.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-balloon.gif

Rev

fruitfly
02-12-2004, 12:57
Quote[/b] (R'as al Ghul @ Feb. 12 2004,10:03)]Hail Thee Emperor,

compliments for the excellent campaign write ups of your own and your fellow Kings. Great fun and inspiration
My question is if you've any experience with players
who use different language versions?
Brutal-DLX and myself who've German versions might be/ are
interested in joining these glorious campaigns to secure ourselves a place in paradise.
Is it posible for us to muster or will it mess the savegames?
Cheers
Try downloading one of the existing PBM games from the org and see if it runs OK.

All the French/Italian ones in the folder are VI 2.01 so if you've got that version installed any of those would be worth a try.

Here's (http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/) where you can download them from.

R'as al Ghul
02-12-2004, 13:28
Thx guys,

I'll try this as soon as I'm home again. I reckon it's the most reasonable thing to just try. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif
As soon as I find out I'll report back to you.
@Revenant69,
if you still plan to do the Egypt campaign, keep me in mind, will you?
Cheers

Revenant69
02-12-2004, 14:26
Yeah do what fruitfly said, download the game and try running it, if it runs OK then you know you can participate in PBMs http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

And yes, I'll keep you in mind for Egypt PBM.

Good Luck,
Rev

R'as al Ghul
02-13-2004, 12:50
Hi again Revenant69,

I've got good news for me and other foreign players.
The savegame file translates perfectly well.
Although I would in the meantime prefer an English version
because of all the translating back and forth. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-book2.gif

Anyway, I would then happily sign up for the oncoming Egypt campaign. Any ideas so far which period and wether TD or GA?
I guess it would be a real challenge to fight those crusading armies in high http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-help.gif
Cheers

Revenant69
02-13-2004, 13:25
Hey R'as al Ghul I just had another wacky idea http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/idea.gif I could send you the English LOC/ENG folder and you could replace the German one that you have so in theory you would have an English version of the game. The folder itseld if about 2Mb big and 400K when zipped. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif

Let me know if you fancy this idea. It is worth a try, at least for curiosities sake http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-smile.gif

Oh and the Egyptian campaign will most likely be Expert/Early GA.

The_Emperor
02-13-2004, 14:25
Well I am glad you can join in R'as al Ghul with the same savegame in a different language version.

Anyway the Egypt Campaign should be coold when its done, and I'll happily wage war as them (I just want to fight with those Mamlukes).

But anyway back on topic, this is Italy afterall How is the campaign going?

Mysterium
02-13-2004, 19:20
Yah, any chance I'll get crackin' this weekend? I hate havin' to conquer around my work schedule . . . http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Edit: good lord, why can't I type?

Monk
02-13-2004, 19:49
Hello future and past Rulers of Italy, i have come to report that i am almost finished and i've got time to complete it today, i should be done by no later than tonight. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

Monk
02-14-2004, 01:39
Update: this is taking longer than i thought.

I might have been done by tonight but i had to fight a three hour battle against the Excommed French. I have finished the War with Sicily, and now i have set into a long and bloody conflict with heretics. The War against the French started out as a Holy expedition to free Burgundy, but so many men have fallen it's become personal to the Doge of the Italians. I should be able to fight the war and defeat out enemy by the end of the nigh, but it will take me a long time as they have a large military.

I have already thought up a name for my King and that is Protector of the Cross. His reign as thus far been filled with wars against heretic excomed Christians, and the reinforcement of the Holy land kingdom, therefore he shall always be remembered for such.

The_Emperor
02-14-2004, 02:06
Glad to see your going to town against the Heretics Kings of Europe... We are after all in the heart of Christendom

Well once again here is the list.

The_Emperor
Doge Vitale II (1087 - 1104) The Merchant King

Simon Appleton
Doge Vitale III (1104 - 1126 ) The Unready

Revenant69
Doge Jacopo I (1126 - 1160) Savior of Jerusalem

Monk
Doge Enrico I (1160 - ? ) The Current Master of Italy (& Protector of the Cross)

Mysterium

Aleksandr Nevsky

Mysterium
02-14-2004, 02:11
Woah, let's not be hasty now. Take your time. Junior wants as much land as he can get . . . I'll occupy myself http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-book2.gif

The_Emperor
02-14-2004, 21:53
Quote[/b] (Mysterium @ Feb. 14 2004,01:11)]Woah, let's not be hasty now. Take your time. Junior wants as much land as he can get . . . I'll occupy myself http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-book2.gif
Just remember the rules, Wars of agression are under tight restrictions...

Still a Crusade or two won't hurt.

Oh and a reminder, in the first decade of 1200 I want you to sack Constantinople with a Crusade... Think of it as a GA Goal they missed http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_knight.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_surrender.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_duel.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_charge.gif

Monk
02-14-2004, 22:08
Quote[/b] (The_Emperor @ Feb. 14 2004,15:53)]
Quote[/b] (Mysterium @ Feb. 14 2004,01:11)]Woah, let's not be hasty now. Take your time. Junior wants as much land as he can get . . . I'll occupy myself http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-book2.gif
Just remember the rules, Wars of agression are under tight restrictions...

Still a Crusade or two won't hurt.

Oh and a reminder, in the first decade of 1200 I want you to sack Constantinople with a Crusade... Think of it as a GA Goal they missed http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_knight.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_surrender.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_duel.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/ht_charge.gif
As i said, it became personal. When i came to the throne the French and sicilians thought it was ok to launch a double fronted attack upon us, and The French Nearly Sacked Venice I managed to fight back and reclaim our lost provinces, i drove the Sicilians from the Italian penesilar and put the french back in their place, but constant raiding on our outposts had to be put to an end.

After 5 years of trying to get peace ( and beleive me these guys were stuborn) plus a few tmes trying to reload to see if i could get them to sign a treaty, i decided enough was enough and attacked the sicilian homeland, the pope didn't seem to mind.

Few years later the French ride across the border with two thousand men, i manage to repulse their attack but i took thousands of casualties. Thats when i had had enough. i launched three crusades against the French and claimed Burgundy, Aquatine, and Anjour. Then the French had a civil war so i thought might as well mop up the heretic rebels and so i did. The French have been banished to the Northern side of the continent and to the British Isle. I'm sorry if i broke the rules in any way, but any factions who try to destroy our capitol has to pay.

btw: i've uploaded the game, my doge ruled for thirty years. died in 1189, it is now 1190.

The French have not signed a peace treaty or cease-fire (i tried often as my monarch was about to die). But they have refound their faith and have an active crusade in progress so i don't think there will be any other hostilities.

Monk
02-14-2004, 22:24
To much to add...

And i didn't limit my conquests against rebels as the byzantines have taken all of the steppes and will pull ahead of us in GA points if care is not taken. We only lead by 5

The_Emperor
02-14-2004, 22:47
So I see...

Ok guys here's a breakdown of the Political situation.

http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/italy/1190map.jpg

Our GA goals are quite interesting, we now have to work on getting more Trade income than anyone else... Should be interesting going on that one (war means no trade with a faction, so Peace is good for business I guess)

Crete is now a homeland province, so by rights we should be able to take that from Byzantium (maybe to coincide with that raid on Constantinople).

Anyway here they are...

http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/italy/1190ga.jpg

And finally here is a picture of the new Doge who is to lead us into the next century...

http://www.ralphwolf.clara.net/italy/1190doge.jpg

Goodluck Mysterium

Mysterium
02-14-2004, 23:37
Got it. File downloaded, and I just took a stroll through my new kingdom. Oh, my apologies, Monk, I didn't want to seem like I was rushing you to finish up or anything. Fathers and monarchs die in their own good time, after all.

I was worried that I'd be the one to take us to Constantinople. It should be interesting trying to build the greatest trade income while having to go to war with the other great naval power in the Mediterranean. Am I worried? No, why would I be worried? Maybe I'm a little . . . http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-stunned.gif . . . or something . . .

Here goes something.

Mysterium
02-15-2004, 12:55
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-help.gif

Can someone tell me how to get screenshot captures? I am a noob, yes, but I'd like to get some photographic evidence of the fall of Constantinople.

Thanks. The trap is set, and I think it might work. Italy will not be popular, however, when I'm through.

The_Emperor
02-15-2004, 13:53
I think you press F2 and it saves a TGA format file ina folder...

However I use a third party program from my old Shogun days called GrabClipSave, it creates a .JPG file in a folder whenever the Print Screen button is hit.

fruitfly
02-16-2004, 10:28
Yep, F2 works fine.

You'll need some sort of image editing tool to open the tga files though so if you don't have anything like paintshop pro or whatever you'll probably be best off using alt+print screen and pasting the screenshots into paint instead.

=================

I've been playing an Italian GA game myself, and was wondering if anyone knows what the requirement for the noble mercantilism GA goal is? I had the highest income and since it was almost entirely trade-based I assume the highest trade income as well, but I still didn't get the points for it.

The_Emperor
02-16-2004, 14:19
It is all about highest Trade income compared to the other factions.

We may have the highest income globally, but it doesn't count for much if a large part of it is farmland-based. Basically hike up the taxes, send your fleet everywhere on the map, and make sure no enemy shipping is around.

Making peace with a lot of factions is also probably a good idea, because you cannot trade with hostiles.

Mysterium
02-17-2004, 23:44
Oh Glorious Line of Ancestors and Progeny of the Doge,

Good news: Constantinople fell just in time for the High Period. I don't think I'll be setting up a Latin Empire there or anything, but I plan on looting the place to the ground, then pulling out and leaving the Byzantines to themselves. Unless holding onto it would force them to make peace with me? Any guidance from the grave?

Also good, the French FINAALLLLYYYY accepted a peace. You were right, Monk, stubborn little punks. I think gutting the Byzantines scared them. They hold all the coast around the North Sea and English Channel, so trade with them should be lucrative once I can get it going. But I still don't trust them, so I won't be demilitarizing the border with them anytime soon.

Oh, and the Egyptian king got himself stuck in a seige, so they're off the map. I wanted to just lock them in Arabia, but he was stupid. And Crete rebelled the year before I invaded. That'll make for some good stuff in the write-up, I hope.

Bad news: Well, the Pope invaded the Papal states, right when I was about to ask for a crusade, and I figured that to be in-character as a good catholic, I shouldn't go onto the field of battle when the pope himself was leading the army. So I let the pope have it, then got an alliance with him again within two years.

Also bad: the navy, while still dominant, is a bit thrashed. Sea lanes and trade routes are toast. We're most assuredly not the leading trade power this time. So we're gonna miss out on those three GA points. But we've got Crete. So, Emperor, how many 'unofficial' GA points are we going to give ourselves for Constantinople? I chose glory over long-term stability (what king doesn't?) by going after the Biz.

So, pillaging is fun, but the economy's tanked. I'm living off of Monk's bank account (Thanks) and losing 3,000 florins a turn. As long as I get peace - or win the naval arms race before I go broke - everything's fine.

Monk
02-18-2004, 00:28
Byzantium was our number 1 trade partner, guess there's only room for one all consuming trade empire http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif. anyhow good luck Mysterium, and good to know the French finally realized that they only survived by the grace of the pope and the Italians. (no longer excomed) When i passed the game to you there was a treasury of 30,000+(IIRC) so it should last a good while.

Good to see you took out the Mamlukes, I trust the reinforcements to the Holy Land i sent help? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Anyhow good luck, my write up will be done in a few days.

Edit: and don't worry about trying to hurry me along, i stopped fighting the French so my heir would have some place to sharpen his sword http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif . Had i given it thought i would have gotten a picture of Treebeard off net and put in caption Now now don't be hasty master Mysterium http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif

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

Mysterium
02-18-2004, 01:00
I'll consider the Treebeard posted and appreciate the humour anyway http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif (I just saw Return of the King for the fourth time yesterday. I think I'm an addict)

I spent the first few years building up the economy for the trade empire, so I got up to around 50,000 by 1200. Four years later, we're back down to 30,000. Musta been those Citadels. I'd say I'm gonna go find a loan shark, but we ARE the loan sharks, so I guess I'm stuck.

Oh, I forgot to mention, the year before the French signed a ceasefire with us, they decided to send a crusade to Serbia. It seems that between us, the Byzantines, and the French, someone's always gotta be beating up on someone else

Oh, and the reinforcements were great. Although, much to my shame, I must admit that I was beaten back out of Sinai my first attempt. I thought I'll just bring in a bunch of Turcopoles to soften 'em up, then my Hospitaller's shouldn't have TOO much trouble with the camel warriors. That fight was UG-LEE

But then I smote them like the wrath of God and all was well . . .

The_Emperor
02-18-2004, 09:52
Good job on the Byzantines Mysterium glad to know that Constantinople is now burning... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

With regards to 'unofficial' GA Points for that action, I say its worth at least as much as the other Crusade GAs.

Did you manage to secure Crete as well while you were at it? (I know it was a homeland province when you took power)


Quote[/b] ] I don't think I'll be setting up a Latin Empire there or anything, but I plan on looting the place to the ground, then pulling out and leaving the Byzantines to themselves. Unless holding onto it would force them to make peace with me? Any guidance from the grave?

It may be worthwhile keeping hold of the City if possible because of the revenue it can produce, also there's the Conquest GA points we get from having it (and denying the Byzantines one of their Homeland provinces).

However if it looks like your going to lose it, burn everything (except the Port) and withdraw your troops.

Your going to have to make a judgement call on whether its worth keeping it or burning it.

I guess you should try to make peace with everyone possible from now on to improve our economy... Sinking the Byzantine fleet beforehand might be a good idea, helping to reduce their trade income so we don't have to get as much to beat them.

Mysterium
02-18-2004, 18:38
Yup, Crete is held. Although if I don't clear a sea lane and get some support troops in there, it might fall.

I'd love to keep Constantinople, but I'm wary of 3,500 in Bulgaria and another 2,000 in Serbia. If I can hold on 'til the French Crusade hits Serbia, that will take some pressure off. I've got a contingency plan to pull out through Greece, though. A lesser prince is holding it, and the seas around Venice are my own little personal lake with plenty of ships there. I just fought off a decent-sized force coming from Trebizond. I'm just lucky they didn't all come at once.

Mysterium
02-19-2004, 21:47
Ugh French tried to invade Lorraine, so we're at war again. Still in Constantinople, still losing money, and Byz. navy just moved in off of Crete, so a rebellion's imminent.

No rest for the wicked . . .

Monk
02-19-2004, 22:22
ANd i thought i had broken the back of the French Army, Looks like they used the recourses of the British isle to rebuild. It appears they havn't forgotten the royal spanking I gave them http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif

Have faith Mysterium THe Italian armies are not easily defeated. Just be sure to avoid the Trees...

http://www.akinonyx.com/eowyn/treebeard.jpg

Tree? I am no Tree I am an Ent

Oops sorry Treebeard...

So long as our Doge's Health Holds, the fight will continue i fear. We have taken Constantinople, the jewel of Byzantium; they will not soon forget it. But i think our troops can hold fast. Have faith master Mysterium, and good luck.

The_Emperor
02-19-2004, 23:03
Sounds like things are getting pretty rough in Europe.

Still no-one said being in the centre of Europe was easy

Good luck Mysterium Cut those heathen heads off http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

Mysterium
02-22-2004, 10:52
So ends the reign of Doge Pietro X, The Friendless

I died at war with four countries, and no allies. Crete is held, and Greece, Bulgaria, and Constantinople were taken from the Byz. The Egyptians king was killed with no heirs, and Arabia and Sinai have consolidated our hold on the Holy Land.

My only advice is to look to the economy. I might've made that navy a bit too big, and because the Aragonese tried to take Aquitaine, I had to fortify the Tolouse-Aquitaine border into Iberia, so we have a four-front empire going on. Maybe five, depending on how you count it. So, that's a LOT of defensive forces.

My only other advice (last one I swear) is that the Byzantines are outta money, so don't worry about their navy. They still won't make peace. And the French might make peace now, it's just that their King went to Ireland and never built a port, so he's been out of the office for the last 15 years. The French King died the same year as me, so maybe peace can be made with the new King.

Oh, and we've got Pav. Arbs. in Genoa, Arbs. in Arabia, Chiv. MAA in Tuscany, but no real heavy cav. production anywhere except for royal knights. And I haven't seen mercenaries for years. I think nobody likes me . . . http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-thinking.gif . . . was it something I said? Maybe I smell bad . . .

Best of luck

Edit: The Italians 1220 PBM

Aleksandr Nevsky
02-23-2004, 08:02
My turn eh?

I'll download the save game and start playing tomorrow...looking forward too it.

The_Emperor
02-23-2004, 09:46
Great Stuff Mysterium,

Too bad your Doge was all alone in a hostile world (well except for his numerous armies of course) http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

I am Glad the steamroller that is the Byz has been halted in their headlong expansion. And yet again I must congratulate you on taking Constantinople, the jewel of Byzantium itself.

I look forward to reading your write-up http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

Mysterium
02-23-2004, 18:28
Thank you, Emperor. Proud to expand the glory of Italy.

I ran into something interesting that I haven't seen before. While I was already at war with France, Byzantium, and Aragon, Spain declared war on me. But I share no borders with Spain, didn't have any ships in the same seas, I think, and in general just had very little to do with Spain. Is it possible to declare war some other way than attacking someone?

The_Emperor
02-23-2004, 18:57
Quote[/b] (Mysterium @ Feb. 23 2004,17:28)]Is it possible to declare war some other way than attacking someone?
To my knowledge it isn't. Are you sure they didn't try to attack some of your shipping only to get sunk themselves? You may have accidentally skipped the parchment for it.

It matters not, should they take any lands it is our duty to take them back (as long as his holiness permits of course).

Mysterium
02-23-2004, 19:17
It's quite possible, sea battles were coming hot and heavy toward the end there.

No matter, Mr. Nevsky will show them wot's wot. Oh, and sorry you're a prevert. But there wasn't another of my sons who was much better. While my seed was plentiful, none was very strong. But you do have 5 sisters to marry off at will

Aleksandr Nevsky
02-23-2004, 19:48
Quote[/b] ]Oh, and sorry you're a prevert.

LOL, no worries, at least it is secret still

The_Emperor
02-23-2004, 20:39
Quote[/b] (Aleksandr Nevsky @ Feb. 23 2004,18:48)]
Quote[/b] ]Oh, and sorry you're a prevert.

LOL, no worries, at least it is secret still
LOL, well at least it makes for an interesting write-up http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-jester.gif

Aleksandr Nevsky
02-25-2004, 06:39
I just wanted to update you all...well actually not much of an update, I haven't got the chance to play a turn yet. I have a midterm on Wednesday, no fun, and I have a lot of rehearsal and practice to do on my trombone...anyway that doesn't really matter. Just wanted to say that I will probably be getting to playing tomorrow night, or maybe during a study break.

Once I get going though...I'll be an unstoppable force of Italian empire consolodation, I think that is what my goal is going to be, I like building~http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-wacko.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-builder.gif ...I don't usually play GA, are there any interesting goals for me to look forward too?

Aleksandr Nevsky
02-29-2004, 04:55
Phew, I finished with the first decade of my reign, and although I haven't really accomplished anything it certainly has been tiring.

My Doge had to marry the daughter of an aristocrat...however even though he is perverted he is making a few heirs (I have two right now, both underage, not to mention his brothers).

My first goal was to try and stabilize the economy, I reorginized the entire army and weeded out some obsolete units while still maintaining the largest army in the world. I set out immeadiately bombarding every faction with my agents, requests for ceasfires and alliances, and marriages...all have been denied. It is getting quite annoying, my Doge is getting frustrated with his fellow rulers. Needless to say I'm not getting anything through trade as no one will trade with me, and the byzantines keep pumping out galleys that always get away from my fleets. So the economy is in bad shape, despite the fact that there is plenty of farming and mining infastructure...the army is just too large, but I can't see making it any smaller we are at war with the Spanish, Aragon, France and Byzantium, with no Allies. I was allied with the English, for like a turn but then the French eliminated them (punks).

The Mongols have just arrived and are expanding towards the North. I am hoping this occupies the Byzantines enough so that they accept peace with me, this will get me some trade income at least. The Spanish and French Navies are non existant, however they have alot of ports that I could be trading with...hopefully things will turn around.

Not much has been happening militarily...except a few revolts. Crete has revolted twice... because the Byzantines cut the Island off from my king...the second revlot succeeded, so Crete is lost, I am about to send an army to retake it though...Sardinia also revolted but it was put down...

Despite the difficulty faced it is alot of fun...I can't wait to proceed with my reign...and I can't wait to do the write up. There has been some great scandals in the Court of Doge Enrico II, the assasins and inquisitors have been busy. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-yes.gif

Wish me luck

Nevsky

The_Emperor
02-29-2004, 14:14
Quote[/b] ]There has been some great scandals in the Court of Doge Enrico II, the assasins and inquisitors have been busy.

Sounds like fun, just be sure to keep the Inquisitors away from your Perverted Doge (Unless you want to go out in a blaze of flame)

Mysterium
03-01-2004, 07:51
Well, I see my lack of popularity during my reign is still well-remembered in the courts of Euorpe. Italy is just not a popular country this century. Maybe you're right, the Horde will give them all someone to REALLY be mad at.

Mysterium
03-01-2004, 20:06
Ah, and speaking of the write-ups, what's the usually M.O. for those things? When/where/how long/how soon, that sort of thing?

Monk
03-01-2004, 20:15
You post them here (in this thread) as soon as their done. How long depends on you and how much time you want to put into them. I've been doing mine for the last week but it still needs a bit of work, i was a bit busy this past weekend or i would have done it then.

As long as it gets done (eventually) there's no problem http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif

Mysterium
03-01-2004, 20:16
Excellent. Should we do them in order (i.e. I wait for yours to be posted) so we don't give anyone an ulcer?

Monk
03-01-2004, 20:21
It helps to keep things organized by posting them in order. If you are waiting on me to finish mine i should be done in a few days, no later than Wednesday

Mysterium
03-01-2004, 20:34
Ah, no, no rush. I'm not even close to done. Or begun.

Aleksandr Nevsky
03-03-2004, 04:29
Sorry that my turn is taking so long, this school quarter is winding down and there is alot of stuff going on. I don't mean to make any excuses, just wanted to let you all know that I will finish my reign soon...hopefully will be done by this weekend.

Thanks for the patience

Nevsky

Aleksandr Nevsky
03-05-2004, 00:01
My Doge is approaching 50, should be over soon.

There are two heirs, one of them just matured...I have been trying to find him a bride, but no luck.

And like I said I haven't really accomplished a whole lot yet, just have defended against couple of Byzantine and one Aragonese invasion, in which their king was killed (arbalests respect no station). All the defending has gotten Enrico II's influence up to a respectable amount. Prince Lorenzo is fairly capable...no horrible vices that I can recall.

As far as alliances and wars. The war with Spain ended throug stalemate, but we are still at war with Aragon, France and the Byzantines. Plus the pope, just the last turn I did today...his only ship decided to attack me, we sunk it, but we are now at war with the Pope. (I will just keep asking and asking for a ceasefire). I don't plan on any conquests at all for my reign.

Maybe it was because I allied my self with the Mongols? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-oops.gif

Oh well, they are making mincemeat of the Byzantine empire in Russia and are pushing on Poland.

Good news is that the economy has turned around and we are bringing in around 4000 florins a turn. There was a stretch there when the economy was pusing -2000 florins a turn...AND I kept getting the parchment saying that I was the richest faction...crazy.

Ok got to stop typing now...jeez I need to save it for the write up

Nevsky

Aleksandr Nevsky
03-05-2004, 02:51
Doge Enrico II Shepherd of the Empire is dead.

Long live Doge Lorenzo I

The last year of Enrico's 32 year long reign saw another attack by a Papal ship on our own in the Adriatic. The time it happened before a ceasefire was reached two turns afterward. This time it is more annoying as an alliance had just been made with the Hungarians, this alliance is now null. Also, we have enough ships, but not all of the Mediterranean sea lanes are covered. (I got a bit lazy towards the end there, and allowed a Byzantine galley to get through the straits of Gibraltar and into the Med., it caused some havoc).

Anyway, we are at still at war with Aragon, France, and Byzantines, as well as the Papacy.

We have one ally, the Danes.

The alliance we had with the Golden Horde ended with the Hungarian Alliance. They have pretty well ripped through Asia Minor and decimated the Byzantines. The Polish seem to be holding them in Central Europe and the People of Novogorod have reappeared.

There is a Crusade ready to be sent off in Burgundy, and we have the largest army. Perhaps the people of Asia Minor will be relieved of Mongol rule someday? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-2thumbsup.gif

The coffers are nice and filled with around 40,000 florins (I'm not sure exactly, could be more, could be less). With a healthy yearly income. There have been no really great building projects, not much has changed since I started. However, a cathedral is about to be completed in Venice.

We are at 120 in GA points. Ahead by about 10 I believe.

May the reign of Doge Lorenzo I and his Queen Birgitta of Denmark be long and glorious

http://www.ac.wwu.edu/~geea/nevskylorenzoI.jpg
http://www.ac.wwu.edu/~geea/lorenzostats.jpg

(File uploaded: The Italians 1254 PBM)

(I will be starting my write up soon, but I will wait until the previous reigns have been put up before I post)

katank
03-05-2004, 03:05
is there room for one more player on the list?
if so, then can I join? my email is peakxu@hotmail.com

The_Emperor
03-08-2004, 22:43
Quote[/b] (katank @ Mar. 05 2004,02:05)]is there room for one more player on the list?
if so, then can I join? my email is peakxu@hotmail.com
Welcome aboard.

Yes you can join and your turn is now.

Follow the link and download (The Italians 1254)
Download Here (http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/)

The_Emperor
Doge Vitale II (1087 - 1104) The Merchant King

Simon Appleton
Doge Vitale III (1104 - 1126 ) The Unready

Revenant69
Doge Jacopo I (1126 - 1160) The Savior of Jerusalem

Monk
Doge Enrico I (1160 - 1190 ) The Protector of the Cross

Mysterium
Doge Pietro X (1190 - 1220) The Friendless

Aleksandr Nevsky
Doge Enrico I (1220 - 1254) Shepherd of the Empire

katank
Doge Lorenzo I (1254 - ?) Current Doge of Italy

Sir Zack de Caldicot
03-09-2004, 00:35
I've always Wanted to be a Merchant http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif
Sure I'll Join
Email: Urukhai_Footsoldier@hotmail.com

katank
03-09-2004, 07:00
I have played a few turns thus far. Nothing too eventful. the economy is in a fairly good state and the empire is doing well.

the killer instinct and hard sums V&V's are interesting.

I started sifitng through some stacks to find nice governors to boost income as I suppose this doge is a meticulous accountant.

I also assasinated the current pope who was a bit annoying and dared to attack our imperial fleet in the adriatic though his boat was the one that sank. guess sending assasins for a slight would be killer instinct.

also, managed to get an alliance with the great khan so as to secure our borders in const. although i'm not taking any chances.

the french are really annoying me and sent a crusade. I decided to let it through to avoid excomm though I guess I could have fought it off and then assasinate the new pope again. BTW, the replacement pope was a 0* so I decided for another papicide.

rome has went through 2 popes in about 3 years. I hope the next one is more amenable to a peace offer.

I'm just wondering baout why we have such a huge navy and yet we do not have any ships in the north seas?

trade doesn't appear to be that great and I hope to fix that shortly.

truly yours, the current doge.

sorry, just a little informal update to let you guys know I have the game and it's working out. too tired to be creative. will do actual writeup later. now gotta http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-zzz.gif

katank
03-09-2004, 17:34
Hi everyone, some work came up and I would also like to start off my Sicilian PBM so if it's possible, can Sir Zack de Caldicot go before me? I would likely not have much time to play this campaign within the week.

thanx

The_Emperor
03-09-2004, 17:38
Quote[/b] (katank @ Mar. 09 2004,16:34)]Hi everyone, some work came up and I would also like to start off my Sicilian PBM so if it's possible, can Sir Zack de Caldicot go before me? I would likely not have much time to play this campaign within the week.

thanx
There you go, be careful how many PBEM's you sign up to or you could be rushed.

Ok I'll re-arrange the list and put you in a later slot.

Right then once again, here is the list.

Follow the link and download (The Italians 1254)
Download Here (http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/)

The_Emperor
Doge Vitale II (1087 - 1104) The Merchant King

Simon Appleton
Doge Vitale III (1104 - 1126 ) The Unready

Revenant69
Doge Jacopo I (1126 - 1160) The Savior of Jerusalem

Monk
Doge Enrico I (1160 - 1190 ) The Protector of the Cross

Mysterium
Doge Pietro X (1190 - 1220) The Friendless

Aleksandr Nevsky
Doge Enrico I (1220 - 1254) Shepherd of the Empire

Sir Zack de Caldicot
Doge Lorenzo I (1254 - ?) Current Doge of Italy

katank

katank
03-09-2004, 23:05
yeah, thanks. There wasn't anyone interested in the sicilian game before so I thought I had some time before I start it and can do this campaign but apparently this isn't the case.

Sorry about any inconvieniences this may have caused and guess I'll be more careful about taking on too many campaigns at a time.

The_Emperor
03-09-2004, 23:12
Quote[/b] (katank @ Mar. 09 2004,22:05)]Sorry about any inconvieniences this may have caused and guess I'll be more careful about taking on too many campaigns at a time.
Don't worry it happens to us all.

When I started off the Hungarian Campaign, my turn had come in the Aragon Campaign... It was a rush to get it done but it was worth it.

Sadly my hungarian Write-up suffered as a result of extensive campaigning in Aragon.

Sir Zack de Caldicot
03-10-2004, 13:34
Game Recieved, Gameplay has begun. One thing I want to point out is that next week (starting this saturday) I will be going to London England for a week. Now, I can probably end MY reign and pass it on but I can't Getthe write up done till after next week, sorry http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif

The_Emperor
03-10-2004, 14:53
Quote[/b] (Sir Zack de Caldicot @ Mar. 10 2004,12:34)]Game Recieved, Gameplay has begun. One thing I want to point out is that next week (starting this saturday) I will be going to London England for a week. Now, I can probably end MY reign and pass it on but I can't Getthe write up done till after next week, sorry http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif
No problems mate, if you leave some placeholder posts in this thread you should be able to come back and edit your write ups into them to keep it in sequence.

Have fun in London. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

Sir Zack de Caldicot
03-12-2004, 13:31
I supose this post is as good as any to leave a placeholder. It will be edited with my write-up.
However, Unfortunately for you guys my reign is taking longer than expected and since I'm leaving tommorow, Well, Next week you can download my reign after I'm finished, sorry guys http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif

Aleksandr Nevsky
03-15-2004, 05:51
I'm going to be away from my MTW for about two weeks.

If my turn comes up could you skip me?

I doubt I will be away long enough to miss my next turn...but if you feel you need to you can remove me from the list for now.

I still have internet access, so my write-up will be done shortly.

Thanks

Sir Zack de Caldicot
03-27-2004, 19:50
My end has finished, last week In fact. I will send it to The_Emperor sometime this week in a zip format if The_Emperor would be so kind to supply his E-mail address.

However on a more serious note my write up will be done later and placed in the placeholder posted earlier, sorry for the long wait and it looks like were out of Doge's
Better get some recruiting done.

Edit: Just checked and It looks like Katank is up next. If he sends his email I'll mail it to him.

The_Emperor
03-27-2004, 22:17
You don't need my email address, just compress it in a .ZIP file and upload it to the Org's filespace.

Here is the link.

http://www.totalwar.org/Downloads/Uploaders/pbmupload.php

Sir Zack de Caldicot
03-28-2004, 01:08
Will do.....this week (sometime)

Vile_Mortis
04-07-2004, 20:01
Is there any chance of me being added to the list?, you seem to be low on future Doges.

Vile_Mortis
04-08-2004, 17:33
My email is ukpedro@hotmail.com

The_Emperor
04-08-2004, 17:56
Quote[/b] (Vile_Mortis @ April 07 2004,20:01)]Is there any chance of me being added to the list?, you seem to be low on future Doges.
yeah sure.

though I haven't yet seen Sir Zack de Caldicot's file in the PBEM Space... I shall PM hima nd find out what has happened.

Sir Zack de Caldicot
04-09-2004, 19:22
I'm so sorry The_Emperor,
I have gottena new computer as my old one was lagging, I never gave a thought when uninstalling MTW VI, the savegame and all my other files where deleted http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif

I'm sorry to let everyone down like this http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif

SZDC

PS: The_Emperor, love your new avatar

The_Emperor
04-10-2004, 02:20
Ok thanks for the response Sir Zack.


Quote[/b] ]PS: The_Emperor, love your new avatar Thnks a lot mate. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif


At any rate it would appear someone would have to play his old Doge's reign over again...

Given that katank had problems with his Savegames when he was doing the Scillian PBEM, I think that means your up next Vile_Mortis (unless Katank has overcome his Savegame problems)

You now get to play Doge Lorenzo I (The 1254 Savegame)

Download from the link below.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/

Vile_Mortis
04-11-2004, 23:27
some stuff has come up so i haven't been able to play, however i should be done with a write up within the next two or three days

Bacchon
04-29-2004, 00:33
Hey everybody.

If this campaign's still going, I'll take the next slot.

My email's pogostickpirate@hotmail.com

Chimpyang
04-29-2004, 16:47
I'll carry on after whoever's next.....just have to move some stuff out of the way first.

econ21
04-29-2004, 20:44
I think this thread needs some attention, of the Imperial kind. Unless Vile_Mortis posts soon, the campaign risks being de-railed. 20 days seems long enough - maybe the Emperor should let Bacchon take over?

Bacchon
04-29-2004, 21:09
I'd be more than willing to take it on immedeatly. I could use a break from modding.

The_Emperor
05-02-2004, 23:49
Quote[/b] (Simon Appleton @ April 29 2004,20:44)]I think this thread needs some attention, of the Imperial kind. Unless Vile_Mortis posts soon, the campaign risks being de-railed. 20 days seems long enough - maybe the Emperor should let Bacchon take over?
Sorry about that, my Imperial attention has been elsewhere of late...

Ok I tried to send a message to him, but I didn't get a confirmation screen saying it has gone.

I think we may have to move on. Feel free to download the campaign.

Bacchon
05-03-2004, 02:32
Heh. I missed your post Emperor, oops. Wasn't paying attention. I'll download the savegame and start it up right.....now. I'll try and post a intro to my reign later today/tonight.

Cheers,

Bacchon

Bacchon
05-03-2004, 07:47
The candles guttered low, flickering in the warm breeze and casting jumping shadows over the square-shouldered man at his desk. He leaned back, rubbing his eyes, exhausted. He had the body of an aging warrior, one who has not seen a battlefield in too long, but his eyes burned bright with wisdom.

The ornate lettering at the top of the parchment before him spoke a grim tale. 1265. Had it really been twenty years already? So long, so much toil and blood, and yet, not much had really changed.

He blinked, clearing his eyes as he thought. Florins poured ever quicker into the kingdoms coffers, and right back out again just as quickly. The eternal warring with France drained both him and his country. It had all seemed so easy, when he was young and the crown of Doge was light on his head. The subjugation of Aragon, taking new lands in the Holy Land from the fading power of the Byzantine Emperor. But the Spanish had struck back, taking Navarre not a year after he'd conquered it. And the French, with their constant crusades, had weakened his northern borders and reclaimed Anjou for themselves.

He smiled grimly. They'd been quick for rue the day they'd continued their war against Italy. He'd taken Serbia and Edessa from them, only five years into his reign. And even now, a huge army was crushing their forces in Antioch. He would take the Holy Land from them, and then, perhaps, he would listen when they begged for the scraps of land they still held.

To the north, the Germans were quiet, not allies, not yet, but an easy peace reigned. Lorenzo was under no illusions that it had anything to with anything but the large garrisons he maintained. To the south, there was constant bickering with the Pope. Lorenzo shook his head. He was the greatest force for Christendom, and still the Pope clung to its alliances with France and Spain.

Spain was still refusing peace, even after all these years. Of course, it probably had something to do with all the Italian Inquisitors who were trying and burning Spanish generals and officials with a glee that bordered on sadistic.

Beyond Spain, the Almohads still hung onto their territory in the southern Iberian penisula and northern Africa. To the east, the Poles, the Hungarians and the Rus fought endless war with the steppe Kahns.

Ah, well, thought the aging Doge. The parchments would still be there in the morning...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, it's been 21 years, and things are going fairly well. Not as well as I'd hoped, or at all like I'd hoped.

I conquerored Aragon and Navarre first turn just for the extra GA points and to get rid of a hostile nation. I sued for peace with the French and the Papacy and took Syria from the Byzantines. I had intended to launch a Crusade or two at the Almohads, take away some of their GA points potential, but I've still got my hands full with the damn French...

Maybe I'll just have my Emissary wander around the French territory yelling Blitzkrieg a lot. Should make 'em nervous. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

I've got a screenshot thing uploaded. I'll post it once it's available.

Cheers,

Bacchon

The_Emperor
05-06-2004, 17:43
Ok here is the list from what i can make out...

Just to clarify things for everyone http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

The_Emperor
Doge Vitale II (1087 - 1104) The Merchant King

Simon Appleton
Doge Vitale III (1104 - 1126 ) The Unready

Revenant69
Doge Jacopo I (1126 - 1160) The Savior of Jerusalem

Monk
Doge Enrico I (1160 - 1190 ) The Protector of the Cross

Mysterium
Doge Pietro X (1190 - 1220) The Friendless

Aleksandr Nevsky
Doge Enrico I (1220 - 1254) Shepherd of the Empire

Bacchon
Doge Lorenzo I (1254 - ?) Current Doge of Italy

Your name could be here

econ21
06-01-2004, 00:44
I wonder if there is any news from Bacchon? It's around a month now - it would be a shame to see this thread die.

The_Emperor
06-01-2004, 13:34
Quote[/b] (Simon Appleton @ June 01 2004,00:44)]I wonder if there is any news from Bacchon? It's around a month now - it would be a shame to see this thread die.
Yes, I was planning on chasing up what was happening. But with him being the last person on the list there isn't as much pressure to do so.

Still I'll pm him.

The_Emperor
06-05-2004, 17:47
No response to the PM in the past few days since it was sent...

So Bacchron's reign is up for Grabs And we are all out of contenders to the Throne

Come on guys... Come and re-create the Italian Empire

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

The_Emperor
Doge Vitale II (1087 - 1104) The Merchant King

Simon Appleton
Doge Vitale III (1104 - 1126 ) The Unready

Revenant69
Doge Jacopo I (1126 - 1160) The Savior of Jerusalem

Monk
Doge Enrico I (1160 - 1190 ) The Protector of the Cross

Mysterium
Doge Pietro X (1190 - 1220) The Friendless

Aleksandr Nevsky
Doge Enrico I (1220 - 1254) Shepherd of the Empire

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

Your Name could be here
Doge Lorenzo I (1254 - ?) Current Doge of Italy

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

Ellesthyan
06-06-2004, 11:22
Well, put me up as well then http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

I can just upload that last version and put it in my savegames map?

The_Emperor
06-06-2004, 12:36
Quote[/b] (Ellesthyan @ June 06 2004,11:22)]Well, put me up as well then http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

I can just upload that last version and put it in my savegames map?
Yes if you download the latest game. (they are all listed by year I think) Place it in your savegames folder, and its there.

Give that a go and PM me if you have any questions.

Ellesthyan
06-07-2004, 08:13
*** Lord Orsini reporting from Venice to the Major Council. There have been no troubles with the ceremony, and his majesty Enrico I has been burried without troubles. His majesty the Doge has decided on some drastic reforms, I therefore ask the council for further instructions. Below is his diary, as our agent Antonio Barbarigo has copied.

Its 2 may, 1254, and I have taken up the crown of the Italian Empire as Doge Lorenzo I, king of Italy, Sicily, Byzantium, Jerusalem and Aquitaine. The empire is large, its fleet is unrivaled, and its army is great. However, its economy is weak and we are currently surviving on the treasury I have decided on some economical rearrangements... In honour of my ancestors I will not relieve my borders of their stress by conquering my enemies, but I will try and make peace where ever possible. What bothers me the most is the hostilities with his holiness the pope, for without him we cannot continue to bear the cross in battle with honour. Emissaries are sent out on diplomatic missions, while I've taken the time to inspect our border armies.


*** Lord Paganelli reporting on account of the Major Council from Constantinople to Lord Orsini the Chamberlain in Venice. We have received your message sealed. The lords have decided on the unregistred Gathering in Constantinople on the matter Doge Lorenzo I. His majesty's plans are extensive, but do not obscure the line of the Major Council. Caution is adviced, but no action is necessary... yet.


Ive started my reign without troubles. It's looking good for the Italians, but the king is a bit of a royal failure... Screenshots coming soon

Ellesthyan
06-07-2004, 22:03
Major Council's log, 1 may 1264.

*** Lord Orsini reporting from Venice to lord Bolomi. Here are the copies of the Doge's diary, as are created by our faithful agents. I await further instructions.
P.S. I'd like to demand the spy network to be enlarged to Venice. Also if possible, a little more funding might be necessary. The Doge is getting suspicious.


It's in the year 1257 that I have decided to write my notes in this ancient diary. Im sure my father would approve; he used to keep up a diary himself. Of course I do not write in it myself. I have appointed 5 servants to do this for me.
*** These men are spies, loyal to my house and family.
The French crusade that headed so cheerfully to Anatolia, has raided our country, taking many hotheads in their army. They even aided a French expedition to Lorraine, and our troops were forced to retreat. A military victory however was achieved when the blockade of Venice had been lifted and the Papal fleet had been destroyed.
*** A dire mistake of the Doge, I may add.

It is the year 1260 and I finally had time to settle down and go on with writing this diary. It's a difficult job for me, as I can't write myself nor read. I sincerly hope my son can get a better education.
*** His son Prince Enrico has been assasinated, as ordered. We have taken a smarter kid to take up his place.
The years behind me have been chaotic, although my biggest concern the economy is doing very well. The Pope had spoken out the ban, as we had attacked their fleet. My defence at the Conference of Rome was fairly futile. However, his holiness died of a heart attack the next year, and his follower decided to releave the ban.
***His holiness has been assasinated, as ordered. We have bribed the new Pope with a large sum of gold.
In Rome, I also declared war on France. I have decided to let my royal relations with the French crown get me enough political strength to claim the whole kingdom. Our armies have marched into Continental France and Serbia.

1262 was a joyful day. I finally have been crowned as official king of France, Serbia and Aquitaine. However, the pope disagreed, and excommunicated us again. The economy is unrivalled in the known world, and more then 10 thousand florins are gathered in taxes and tolls all over the land, every year My farther might have been proud.
*** In this year the Major Council decided on creating a spy network, to give us more reliable intelligence. The excommunication was a bad mistake made by the Council and I, the Chamberlain, lost my presidentship to Lord Romali of Constantinople. As Romali was an incompetent fool, I had him assasinated. Lord Bolomi, my cousin, took up his presidentship.

1264, 10 years after taking up the reign over my beloved country, I decided after my good friend Lord Orsini urged me, to take up the pencil again and write down my history. The economy is doing well. Horses and steel ploughs have been introduced almost everywhere, and the results are finally showing. The treasury has been replenished, but the councellors demand more and more money from me. Although Orsini says it is necessary to keep the kingdom safe, Im having different thoughts.
*** Alarmingly, the Doge is not as stupid as he looks. Im doing my best to keep him from going into that direction.

*** Lord Bolomi, president of the Major Council, reporting to Venice. We have received your message, but its seal was broken. We advice serious caution, and we urge you to assasinate all of your messagers. Sadly, we cannot fund you more than we already do. We receive many demands, and Venice is already getting a big share. We might have to cut in some of the bigger receivers if they do not give enough profit in return...


10 years into my reign, and I've decided to be a bit more aggressive then I should have been. It's a pain to defend such a long border and kicking out the dangerous French was absolutely necessary. Further aggression I hope to avoid. The economy is doing very well (13000 profit/year). I feared for difficult battles against my enemies, but I guess a few months playing exclusively medmod has let me overestimate the A.I. a bit...

The_Emperor
06-07-2004, 22:15
Excellent stuff, being in the format of a historical log works very well.

Sorry to hear about your troubles with the Pope and the French, but I guess we have so much money now we have entered the nobody likes me portion of the game.

Anyway goodluck with the rest of it http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/bigthumb.gif

Ellesthyan
06-10-2004, 22:27
***Lord Orsini reporting to the Gathering of the Major Council in 1280. Here are the copies of His Majesty's dairy, as the Doge has given me personally. As I've made clear earlier, His Majesty was aware of our communication. However, he did not see anything wrong in it, and he decided to give me his aid. He must really trust me, or be really stupid. Actually, I think both are appropiate...

It's been 4 years since I wrote in my diary for the last time. Peace is finally settling in the world, but the last years have been straining. The Germans had crossed the north border, but were defeated near Como (Province Milan) and yet again by Venice. This was however their last act of hostility...
*** The organised attack by our agents on the German treasury was probably the reason.
When the pope suddenly died of a heart attack, his army commander lord Baldini gathered all his men, and, claiming we had assasinated his holiness, invaded Tuscany. However, the modern army stationed there was more then they could handle. On advice of the Major Council I pressed on the election of my cousin as the new pope; and soon the Papal states accepted a cease fire.
*** Of course the Pope was assasinated by our agents. This was the second and hopefully last time the fool in Rome will excommunicate His Majesty...

I write again in the year 1280, and the years are starting to count. My son has come of age, but he suffers from a sickness, making him a little fat. I've decided to keep him close to me in Venice, for I do not have much hope he will survive a battle.
*** This prince is a fool, filled with ideas of honour and a horrible eating habit. Perfect for our plans.
It's been 8 years since the last time our troops marched to war. That was the glorious crusade to Cyprus, a little kingdom that dared to oppose the Pope. Although Im eager to go to battle once again the Major Council tries to keep me from doing anything. They've got spies everywhere, and no one is to be trusted, not even my dear friend Orsini. He has made clear that the Council only has the greater good of my dynasty as goal. I sure hope it is...
*** The doge is at least smart enough not to oppose the Council. We are sure some of our people are more loyal to the crown than to us, therefore I've let the whole court be transported to Ibiza. They are replaced by Flemish farmers, who certainly know no word Italian.
On a more positive note, the Treasury has passed 100 thousand florins Our wealth is spent in reserves, the investments in the new banking houses and in the newest technologies. Also, lord Bolomi the Cardinal of Milan has asked my permission for the initiation of the inquisition. As Im not really experienced with holy things I gave him all the power he needed.
*** As we suspected, our doge is an atheist. We should keep that in mind if we have to murder him one day.

I greet you, Major Council I ask you not to spy on me much longer, it's getting rather annoying.
*** How rude of His Majesty

*** (written in haste, in a separate note) I urgently request more recources and spies for the capital. Someone is rapidly undermining our networks. 20 of my most loyal servants have dissapeared. Unknown troops march in the streets. The house of lord Piccolomini has been burned to the ground. I suspect the queen is behind all this.

*** Lord Paganelli reporting to the Chamberlain Orsini in Venice. We have received your message sealed. We urge you to be extremely cautious. This is a serious situation, aid is coming immidiately. Try to blackmail the queen, try to keep his majesty's trust in you. More I cannot say, for we suspect all the lines to be tapped.


Crisis in the Major Council They're not so allknowing as they thought http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Anyway, it's going very well with the Italians. The borders are defended by at least 2 stacks, there is peace with the pope and I am gaining 20000 florins every year. Italy is the super super power in Europe, only the Golden Horde and the Almohads might be able to put up some resistance. I'll put up some screenshots when I've got more time http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

Ellesthyan
06-15-2004, 13:51
***Lord Orsini reporting to the Major Council from Corsica, 1284. The King is Dead, Long Live the King I am pleased to inform you that his majesty Doge Lorenzo I has been poisoned and killed at the venerable age of 59. More information on the events of the last 4 years soon.

The_Emperor
06-15-2004, 20:57
Ok we need another new King http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-help.gif

Ellesthyan
06-18-2004, 10:39
GAH Can't get the screenshots to work. I promise I'll end my write up, but I don't know when yet...

BTW: Doge Lorenzo I shall be recorded in the big book of history as The steward. He didn't get his magnificent steward and magnificent builder virtues for nuthin'

afrit
07-08-2004, 04:32
OK. Based on The_Emperor's reply in the PBM Master List (http://www.totalwar.org/cgi-bin/forum/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=25;t=20169)thread I started, it seems players are needed for this one.

I can start playing this coming weekend. I've played Italy before, but have never played Expert. So it would be a decent challenge.


afrit

The_Emperor
07-12-2004, 09:24
Thanks for taking this up.

The game should be on the org's pbem filespace. Feel free to start. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

afrit
07-13-2004, 02:07
All right. I started playing.

At a Villa ovelooking Bastia Citadel, Corisca 1284

Doge Enrico III, age 26, listened intently as his father's advisor, the old Orsini defended himself. My liege, I have always been a faithful servant of your father I beg you, do not dismantle my - I mean your great father's- work.
Enough with your lies replied the young Doge. I am Lord of Italy and only I decide where to take Her. I will restore Italy to the glory days of the Emperors of Rome. I WILL be the new Emperor, and Italy will again rule the coasts of the Mediterranean. Mare Nostrum Est .

With these words, the young monarch declared the goal of his reign: to reconquer all that was the Roman's domain: Iberia, Africa, Asia Minor, Illyricum, Gaul and Brittania. In short, to make the Mediterranean an Italian lake. Of course, the greatest city in the realm will not be Rome anymore, for it has become the abode of the ever-meddlesome Popes. Rather Venice, Queen of the Sea, will be the new Rome.

This meant that some of the alliances his father have built will be destroyed, and new ones may be formed. It also meant constant war. But the King was confident that the treasury bequeathed by his father, at 216,651 florins would be plenty.

Orsini's protestations were to no avail. Soon after, the young King had him arrested, weighted with the gold he loved so much and thrown in the raging waters of the Ligurian sea.

[This is a GA game, but all the goals are done except conquest and Homelands. And Italy is so strong, that others will gang up on it. To make it challenging. I will try to reconquer the old Roman world. This will mean war with Almohads, Golden Horde, France in Anatolia. It also means, Novgorod and Germany may get too strong for my successor. We'll see how it plays out]


Afrit

Silver Rusher
09-10-2004, 20:08
Can I do this one after you?

afrit
09-11-2004, 09:39
I never played the reign I volunteered for. It was too much to manage and I got sucked into other games.

I'm sure it's fine by everybody for you to go ahead and play the last reign (I'll delete my previous post to avoid confusion). You may be able to finish the game and conquer all.


Afrit

Silver Rusher
09-11-2004, 09:51
Hmmm... ok send me a pm