The Da Vinci Code a Templar Knights AAR

[Bomberboy]

Good AAR, I like how you've set it.

[Northnovas]

Thanks, Bomberboy for the input! I am glad you like it.

A Tale of Two Cities

The Templar Order has been hampered from expansion because of the Mongol invasion. The Mongols are still in the Jerusalem Region with a large force but their command structure is weakening.





The first skirmish for the Holy City has begun the Duke of Edessa attacked the Horde marching for Jerusalem.



There was a chance of capturing the tail end of the enemy army put the Mongols are so adapt at supporting their units. The Duke removed a Captain from the field and damaged the artillery before ordering a general withdraw from the field.



1293 Faction Announcements



The Pope is pleased with the work of the Order



Jerusalem is besieged! The Grandmaster reacts attacking quickly in the night hitting the outer flank of the Mongol Army and seperating the enemy commanders.





The retreating Mongols are hit by Garrison Captains in their retreat

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Jerusalem 1294



The Mongols attempt to breach the walls of the Holy City. The newly appointed King of Jerusalem has the support of the Grandmaster and the Duke of Edessa has reinforcements.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Southern gate is defended for the onslaught



The ladders reach the walls first meeting the defending Spearmen and Crossbows Regiments



The attackers are repelled from the walls



Meanwhile the Duke of Edessa reaches the front of the South Gate and the attackers are momentarily diverted. The Mongols concentrate on the new threat in the filed. Unfortunately his army retreats and the Garrison did not come out of the city to support the Duke.



The walls secured the battering ram neutralized the Knights open the gates and charge the remaining Mongols.



The fighting is intense but the fresh regiments of Knights are enough to route the Mongol attackers




The Grandmaster maneuvered around the city to the north and defeated the Mongol Army positioned at the north of the city



The carnage was high but the city defended and 2 Mongol Armies defeated. However, there were still several large armies and the Knights were not concentrated and in need of reinforcements

1294 Fact Announcements

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

1294 Jerusalem Besieged!

The Holy City was attacked again but the Knights could not rally enough troops to stop the Mongol Invaders.

1294 Fall of Jerusalem

The King of Jerusalem died of wounds received in battle. The city in now in the hands of the Golden Horde.

1295 Fact Announcements



Disturbing news from Constantinople the city is in a great unrest from religious turmoil.
Citizens and Soldiers have been killed there seems to be no means of calming the population. Two great cities lost to the Order!

The Duke of Edessa was left in the Jerusalem Region with a small force the Mongols were reorganizing their armies. The Duke thought he would take advantage of the lull and disrepair of the city defenses.



It was a bloody battle and the Knights entered the city but could not hold the position.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Knights retreat to Acre to reassess the situation.

1297 Fact Announcements



The Grandmaster led a small force out of Acre for Jerusalem the Mongol Garrison was small led by Khan Aradai the Wrathful who had a price on his head from the Council.



The night attack was swift and surprised the defenders. The Mongols were removed from the Holy City.



The Mongols scattered and went into small groups heading north. The city was occupied and the mess cleaned up and repaired.

Disturbing news from Cairo the city has been infected with a sickness.



Matters in Constantinople are worse then first reported. The city has revolted.



The Duke responded quickly by placing the city under siege and vows to capture and prosecute the ring leaders.

1299 the plague lingers in the City of Cairo.



Faction Announcements



Basra 1299

The young noble Elberhard Weinmuth arrives with his army to the City of Basra. The city has been in control of a Rebel Leader who did not wish to negotiate with the Order. The spies have been sitting in the city for some time and the intelligence report was up to date. The Young Elberhard hired a new weapon for the capture of Basra.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Elephants hired by the Order lead the way on the attack of the city flying the Templar Knights colours.



The spies had opened the gates and quick access was gained. The Rebels regrouped in the Town Square.



The Elephants were unstoppable leading the charge followed by the rest of the army.



The Elephants reached the Town Square but by this time they were out of control and stomping everything in their path.



The Rebels were defeated and the City of Basra was under Templar control





The city was sacked and 5000 florins were added to the coffers.

Another century is ending and The Order of the Templar Knights are established in the Outremer but they still have a long struggle ahead of them.

[Northnovas]

A New Era



The first decade of the new century is relatively quite in the Outremer there were only 2 significant military events that took place.

The City of Constantinople was under Rebel control and the Duke had maintained a siege of the city. The siege was doing well till panic set in when the Byzantine Allies showed up with two large armies to "assist". The Duke acted quickly and moved on the Rebels.



The city was taken by Duke Johannes de Castro and monies seized from the Rebels and Orthodox supporters (23,000) florins were added to the treasury and the city was back under the Templar Knights control but there was uneasiness in the city.



The other significant battle took place in the Tortosa Region with the Grandmaster himself. The Mongol Armies had reformed in this Region but were posing no threat. There were minor skirmishes but nothing of significance. The Grandmaster had left the Holy City and rallied an army along the way to fight the remaining Mongols.
When his army arrived he met up with Councillor Heinrich they outnumbered their Mongol foes but the Grandmaster made a daring night attack trying to capture or destroy the Mongol Leader Kahn Orda the Merciless.



The Knights had split the Mongol army in half and the Mongols were not looking for fight and had tried to elude the Grandmaster. Knowing his infantry could not catch the fleeing army a large cavalry charge was ordered and all light and heavy cavalry pursued the enemy.



The Kahn’s personal Bodyguard unit was involved along with a Regiment of Heavy Cavalry. However casaulties were minimal because they were more interested in fleeing then fighting.



The losses were minimal on both sides but the Order scored a strategic victory because all of the Mongol Armies retreated east and out of the region.



There were Rebel Armies removed from the Outremer proper and the work of a young noble was recognized by the Grandmaster and he was accepted into the Order.





A great earthquake struck the Alexandria Region and the loss of a clergyman who was just promoted to Cardinal. There were other losses through natural causes of clergy and merchants but the most significant Faction Announcement was the birth of a son to the Grandmaster. Peter de Alvarez was born in 1306.



The good news from the Egyptian Frontier was the sickness affecting Cairo had passed and the city is returning to normal.

There was succession in the European Royal Courts with the death of the King of France, Crown of Argonese and the Hungarian Ruler. There was also some unrest amongst the nobles in Scotland on succession of the Scottish King.

Some other exciting news a diplomat Wenzel Bresch had made it to the Scottish Isles and was exploring the island for remains of the English Faction and to observe the power of the Scots on the island.



There were a few annoying heretics removed and the Secret Service was successful removing a Mongol Diplomat from Jerusalem.



The young Duke of Basra was building a city and erecting watch towers on the border of the unknown lands.



The Order of the Templar Knights were the most advance and largest faction by 1305 by the end of the decade they were the strongest and new merchants had gone out to re-establish trade routes. The financial situation was stabilizing and growing to support the armies in the field. There was a secret wealth building within the Order.

[Privateerkev]

I'm sad to see the Oliphants meet such a tragic end. :(

But at least they did their duty. Was certainly funny to see them flying Templar colors. I put them in my English armies all the time in my SP games. Great fun.

[Galain_Ironhide]

Man, that Mongol invasion was insane! You did well to hold them at bay as long as you did. I particularly liked the way you covered it.
Keep it up.

[Northnovas]

I'm sad to see the Oliphants meet such a tragic end. :(

But at least they did their duty. Was certainly funny to see them flying Templar colors. I put them in my English armies all the time in my SP games. Great fun.

It was my first time using them and it won't be the last I hope. They are expensive to up keep! At least I have them at my disposal for the next threat.

Man, that Mongol invasion was insane! You did well to hold them at bay as long as you did. I particularly liked the way you covered it.
Keep it up.

The Mongols are challenging and very frustrating in open field and I don't have the skills of the game like some players in this forum. I was tempted a few times to pack it in. They have taken a lot of resources and time and most likely prevent a campaign victory but I will stick it out and see waht happens.

[Northnovas]

A Light at the End of the Tunnel

The Horde had stalled in the Damascus Region. The Mongol Faction Heir had been separated and was with a small army south of the Templar capital Tortosa.



The Templar Knights had established several ports in the Red Sea but were unable to defend the shipping lanes from Pirates.



The Diplomat in The Scottish Isles confirms that the Scots are the largest faction in the world and the Byzantines are recognized has the strongest. Though there is some turmoil in the Scottish Kingdom has a Regent is trying to gain control of the vacant throne.
The Duke of Edessa returned home to the city and died peacefully.

Financial Report of 1311



The Grandmaster is updated on the Papacy’s business and finds another Knight in the College.



From the western city of the Empire there is news of more unrest.



The Great City of Alexandria reports of an earthquake with minor casualties and no damage to the city. The Holy Roman Empire and the Kingdom of Denmark are now at war.
Ortwinus de Briho is promoted to the College of Cardinals and six members of the Order hold seats. A daughter is born into the Grandmaster’s family.

The Scots regulate further controls in the conquered City of London.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

In the Constantinople Region the Knights Secret Agency went out to eliminate some of the Orthodox preachers causing unrest. The agent involved was unsuccessful trying to eliminate 3 members fortunately he was not detected.



There was one minor skirmish with the Mongols that favoured the Order but nothing significant came from it. The Grandmaster knew this would be a war of attrition and was trying to pick the right battle.



The Duke of Constantinople seeks permission from the Grandmaster to allow a new member into the Order and successor for the city. The member is from nobility in the Region and may hopefully calm the situation.



The Duke of Cairo has gained control of the city and region and easily removed some Rebels from the area.



1318 Battle of Mount Soriel

The two armies were reorganizing and ready to strike. The Grandmaster moved first and in a surprise night attack split the Mongol Army unfortunately the enemy got away. However, the strategy of dividing the armies worked and allowed Councillor Heinrich to make his move.



Councillor Heinrich had the superior numbers but it was little comfort fighting this enemy. The Councillor took position on the highest ground and waited.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Mongols charged from two areas and the Councillor worked on his right flank committing his cavalry to beat back the enemy. His centre and left were secured with the enemy firing volleys and retreating.



The battle raged on the right flank and a stroke of luck was granted to the Order. The Khan had fallen in battle. The death was felt through the enemy ranks and for the first time the enemy was wavering in battle and several units routed from the field. The Knights pressed on securing the right flank.



The enemy archers were keeping their distance and the enemy was rallying shaken units. The Knights centre pressed forward. Regiments from the first Crusaders pressed forward trying to take advantage of the Mongol disorganization.



The Mongols rallied and committed troops to the centre of the battlefield. They had the advantage of the cavalry but the Councillor countered with spearmen and heavy infantry regiments.





The battle raged on but the Knights were tiring and some of the units were too exhausted to fight, some began to retreat. The Councillor battered himself rallied what he could and retreated for middle ground. His men would make their stand here, the Mongols did not pursue.



It was over tactically it was a defeat but strategically it was a victory. The Mongol leader fell in battle and the successor was divided from the main army. There were only a few remaining leaders left. It was a war of attrition and would the Knights find enough men for the knock out blow.

The Duke of Alexandria was able to remove a Rebel Army from the Region.



The decade started and ended with action in the Red Sea Admiral Kurt happily reported that all Pirates had been removed and all shipping lanes were open and safe for commerce.



The de Payns family had a new member Arnold.

[Northnovas]

A Mighty Foe Vanquished

The Mongol Wars 1320-1323

The war of attrition had finally eaten away the Golden Horde. They were no longer the numbers once feared. There command chain was almost broken and they had a little of their supplies left.



The Grandmaster plan was to isolate the Horde and keep them in a Region exhausting their ability to forage from the land.

Damascus Pass

The Grandmaster moved first with a night attack.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Mongols charged forth with their mighty Horse Archers the only counter was Heavy Cavalry and the Regiments of St John’s Order moved in clashing on the open field.



The melee was fierce and the Mongols moved up their infantry to support the Horse Units. The Knights held back all infantry.



As the enemy infantry moved in closer for support the second wave of Templar Cavalry was unleashed. Through the darkness the Knights charged down the hill.





Following the great charge the infantry units followed up and engaged the enemy infantry.



The enemy leaders were caught in the last melee and were struck down causing panic in the enemy ranks. For only a second time the Templar Knights saw the indecision of the Mongols and saw the enemy flee from the field.



Victory

Odullah Flats

The Grandmaster and Councillor had coordinated their armies for the second attack and Councillor Heinrich was to lead the initial assault.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Councillor had brought his army off the main road and had the Grandmaster reinforcing the rear flank. The Mongols were in two small groups to his left and right.



Once again the Horse Archers pressed forward through the sparse vegetation raining arrows down on the Knights. A quick counter moved pushed the Archers back.



The Grandmaster had brought his men up and sat to the left of Councillor Heinrich they now formed a wall. The Mongols were trying to converge to the centre to support each other. Another wave of Knights charged forward.



A tragic event took place behind the Templar lines. Councillor Heinrich was stuck down by enemy fire. However, the line did not waiver.



The battle began to heat up has the troops rallied to their fallen leader. The Mongol Generals charged their units into the scrum.



They were quickly surrounded and knocked from their horses. The Faction Leader of the Mongols was no more.





Another victory the Golden Horde was definitely on the run. The loss of Councillor Heinrich was felt through the Order he was a good man from a noble family. The reason the line did not falter was the work of his Captain who was promoted to command by Grandmaster Ansehelm the Merciless.

The Grandmaster young son Phillip was in no position to be designated Heir so the regent authority for Faction Heir was in the hands of the Duke of Constantinople for the time being.



The Golden Horde was also in a state of transition and the last of the Khans was named.



The Mongols were a concern and no longer was the threat they had been from earlier years the Grandmaster preparing for one final blow.

The Battle on the Silk Road 1323

The stage had been set and the armies lined up. This would be the last stand for the Kahn.





The Grandmaster did not hold back and marched for the high terrain. The armies clashed with their horses but it was the Knights infantry that won the day capturing the last family members of the Mongolian Empire.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The ransom was proposed but would not be considered for negotiations the enemy leaders were but to death. The Outremer was safe for now.

The news of the Templar victory spread rapidly through the Mediterranean and the Pope blessed the Order and Grandmaster Ansehelm for their work and duty in the name of Christianity.



The Outremer was at peace but for how long? The Seljuk Sultanate held the northern lands and the Byzantines held the lands northwest. Could Constantinople be reunited with the rest of the Outremer? The two factions have been long time allies and the current Byzantine Ruler has passed away. The African lands were barren and the settlements sparse. They were also in control of the Knights other ally the Sicilians. A special meeting would take place discussing the expansion of the Order.

Diplomatic news from Europe the tour of the Scottish Isles was completed and no positive negotiations came from talks with the Scots. Diplomat Wenzel Bresch advises there is some turmoil in the Scottish Household has another Regent passed away.

Other disturbing news was the French victory over Milan the events were confirmed by the diplomat in the area.



Ana the Affectionate eldest daughter of the Grandmaster has completed her training and will be sent to some the European Courts for diplomatic talks and find a possible suitor.



The Constantinople Region has been pacified a bit. Some of the more Orthodox clergy had been removed under suspicious means. The area was also being cleared of Heretics trying to take advantage of the unrest.



There has been great progress in man's ability to adapt and progress. What lies ahead in the field of war?

[Northnovas]

Council of 1329

The Order of the Templar Knights held a special meeting in Jerusalem to discuss the future of the Order. The Mongols were defeated and the wealth was accumulating. Decisions had to be made of where the wealth and treasure would be stored and spent along with the next course of action war with the Byzantines or the Seljuk Sultanate.
One action that would be taken was the state of war that exist between Poland and the Order. The Pope was issuing a Crusade to Riga and the Duke of Adana would take the cross for the Order.



The Treasury



Major Crises

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The game crashed on the AI turn (171). I tried several saves and could not get past the error. I went back one save further and just playing the AI moved to turn 173. It appears this is a common problem in the game and the log identifies something that was not happening in the AI turn.
Evaluating to see if the AAR will continue this is the first time I have come across this problem and saving every turn would be impractical waiting for the next CTD.

1329 Overview

[Northnovas]

After the Grand Council of Tortosa 1329

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The talks concluded positively with the Order of Templar Knights and the Papacy. The alliance between the 2 was solidified further and the exchange of wealth and religious artefacts made between the two allies. The Order had gained unprecedented wealth and allowed them to financially support the European Courts in financial enterprises. It was also decreed that the Order of the Templar Knights were the sole protectors of the Outremer and no other nation shall advance into the territories of the Order. Any breach would be an act of war against the Order and the Papacy.

The Order was now spending the wealth to expand and upgrade their cities for commerce and defence. The plan was discussed for the next military operation to expand their influence. The Grandmaster was concerned of the growing influence of the Byzantines in the Region and the security of Constantinople. The Papacy was concerned of the Seljuk Sultanate influence in the area. The Orthodox factions were the only ones at war with the Seljuk. The Knights should set an example and plunder what is left before it is too late.

The Second Crusade of Riga was called and many nations declared war against Poland the Order also renewed their action against the Poles and joined the Crusade.



The Papacy offered financial assistance for joining and the next military action was agreed upon. Relations are perfect between the two factions.

The Holy Roman Emperor and Venetian ruler passed away. There was also the death of Councillor Johannes Duke of Constantinople. A respectful calmness remained in the great city.



The Duke of Cairo the Grandmaster Ansehelm brother Phillip would be the Councillor of the Order.



The Treasury Report of 1339 and the significance of the Byzantine influence



A new member comes of age the son of the late Heinrich de Payns who is granted the family title Duke of Tortosa by the Grandmaster.

Gunther d'Ulhoa is appointed the Duke of Constantinople.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Crusade on Riga two factions have appeared in the Region.



Another mysterious illness as returned to Cairo and appears to be much worse then the sickness decades before causing some panic amongst the populace.



The sickness is referred to has the Black Death and it is affecting many nations across Europe.



The Danish Allies are at war with the French. The Hungarian Ruler passed away from the Black Death and the mortality rate is increasing causing panic all through Europe.



Cardinal Fredericus de Mota is appointed Arch Bishop of the Realm


Bishop Heinrich de Limos is appointed to the College to represent the Order and bringing the seats to 7 and possible securing another Knight into the Papacy.

The Second Crusade of Riga ends successfully with the Scots conquoring the city. The Knights Crusading Army is in the Constantinople Region and will return to the Outremer.

The Kingdoms of Scotland and Hungary are now at war having just fought together in the Crusade. The Holy Roman Empire has been reconciled by the Pope.

The City of Constantinople has been calm and there was an increase in the faith but interference from some men have forced the clergy to persecute rather then preach to keep peace in the region.



There has been news the city of Nuremburg the Capital City of the HRE has fallen and the Emperor is dead. The King of Spain has also passed on and in Hungary a Regent has taken control of the Royal House has the newest ruler suddenly died from the Black Death.

The Black Death has spread throughout the Outremer many of the members are affected.





The half way mark of the century and man’s progress is noted.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The financial overview of the Order



An army of elephants is quite expensive to maintain especially one equipped with artillery. The Grandmaster received confirmation that the Duke of Basra has left his city and is heading north to Baghdad the Capital City of the Seljuk Sultanate.

[Northnovas]

Unfinished Business with an Old Foe

The Duke of Basra had marched north and was approaching the City of Baghdad. The Grandmaster was concerned at the cost of the young Duke’s Mercenary Army. Elephants were very expensive to maintain.



Diplomat Otto Goodwinson approached the Seljuk Court and offered the Sultan to be a vassal. He was flatly refused all trade agreements were cancelled. The Seljuk Sultanate were very upset with the diplomatic talks, war was looming. The relations with the Byzantines greatly improved after this diplomatic meeting.

The Duke of Basra attacked the City of Baghdad. It was lightly defended.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Elephant Artillery attacked the walls.

The Populace was exterminated and 16,000 florins were added to the treasury. The Duke’s mercenary army was disbanded.

Death was now in every corner of the Outremer.



Bishop Lukas Weinmuth is promoted to the College and the Pope excommunicates Dodge Benvunuto the Brave of the Venetian Republic.

The plague has claimed a few nobles of the Order. Elberhard Weinmuth is appointed the Duke of Baghdad.



The cost of running an empire The Order of the Templar Knights is recognized has the strongest faction.



The Seljuk Sultanate are down to one Region. A spy has infiltrated the capital Mosul.



The Seljuk – Byzantine War is continuing and the Seljuk seem to be ignoring the Knights sending armies north through the Edessa Region to fight the Byzantines.



The Year 1353 brings the passing Kievan Rus Duke and Pope Pius the II the Merciless. An election is called by the College of Cardinals.

There was some debate if a Templar Knight should take the Papacy Cardinal Johannes was 63 years of age and would not be around long. There was consideration to hand over to another faction.



In the end Pope Johannes the Missionary was elected. The excommunicated factions were reconciled they included France, Poland and Republic of Venice.

Death still lingers in the land and it is a logistics nightmare trying to keep infected and clean nobles and armies from merging. The economy is at a standstill there is a negative cash flow with the commerce closed from the Black Death.

The Knights moved against the supply route of the Seljuk in the Mosul – Edessa border. The Duke of Adana had returned from Constantinople and was not affected by the sickness. The Duke of Edessa and his army were infected and would be the reinforcements.





The prisoners were ransomed and 1,500 florins returned to the treasury.

Diplomatic news reports the Scottish and Russian Dynasties are in grave trouble to find heirs and regents have been appointed to administer the affairs of the realm.



Another Knight promoted to the College Bishop Wolfgang Windeck.

Agent Ruppert Emolt (spy) was reported missing from the Mosul Region and the worst is feared.
Though the sickness is waning many cities and members are still affected and there is still little stimulus in the economy.

The Grandmaster's only son comes of age.



The fleet that had sailed from Antioch to Helsinki was destroyed by pirates in the Baltic Sea.



The Order is starting to rebound from the Black Death with only pockets of the sickness remaining. The treasury is starting to fill up



The Grandmaster second daughter comes of age.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Hostilities end between France and the Republic of Venice. King Fulkes the Tyrant of France is excommunicated.

Mosul-Edessa Border





There was only a meager sum for the family member.

The Grandmaster permitted his daughter Maria d’Alvarez to marry Karl d’Allmeida Duke of Edessa.

Another Templar victory




Economy back on track

[Northnovas]

Another Faction Vanquished

The financial state of the Order is in relative good shape for such an enterprising faction.



The Byzantines are the Knights main rival for power. The Byzantines had just signed a truce with the Moors.

The fighting intensifies with the Knights and the Seljuk. The city of Edessa is under siege.

Edessa-Mosul Border 1360

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Duke of Tortosa strikes against an in coming Seljuk Army.



The Seljuk comes out with heavy firepower but the Knights ranks do not bend. Templar cavalry is sent out to the flanks. The Knights respond with the firepower from mortar and bombard crews.




The Knights Cavalry flank around the enemy frontline and go after the trebuchet crews.



The Seljuk waited for the advancing Knights.



The Knights attack the centre line and a fierce battle ensues.



The enemy general is cut down and the enemy line begins to falter. The regiments begin to waiver and route one by one.



The Duke achieves another victory. The Seljuk refused the ransom offered.

Siege of Edessa 1360

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Duke is faced with a small enemy force outside his gates.



He sallies forth to take on the enemy outside the main gates.



The enemy retreated from the gates leaving their bombard crew exposed.



The Knights continued forward and engaged the enemy troops .



The Duke of Edessa was victorious the ransom was not accepted.

The cities of Antioch and Tortosa were still affected by the sickness.

The youngest daughter of the Grandmaster comes of age.



By 1362 the Byzantines are recognized has the strongest faction.

The Duke of Tortosa was maintaining the border and found the Crown Prince of the Seljuk Sultanate was in the area with a small army.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

crews almost wiping then out before they were rescued by the Duke.

The two armies met on a desert hill top.



The enemy held the high ground the Knights advanced slowly up the hill in the blazing noon sun.



The Crown Prince foolishly engaged his unit in overwhelming odds.



The Prince was knocked from his horse and captured.



While the main engagement was at the top of the hill the Seljuk had snuck a regiment down and engaged the artillery



The Duke achieved another victory and ransomed the Prince back to the Sultan. The ransom was refused.

The Templar Knights are rewarded with two more seats in the College.



The Duke of Edessa is faced with another enemy force at the gates and sallies out to meet them.



News from Rome the Pope has passed away and elections will beheld for a new Pope. The Templar Knights again have another candidate for the position.



Again there is thought of another faction taking the Papacy but it was only a brief thought.



Templar Knight Lothar the Missionary is appointed Pope Eugenius III

The Kingdom of France is reconciled and a truce is signed with the Kingdom of Hungary and Republic of Novogorod.

The Byzantines and the Knights jostle for the position of strongest faction.

By 1365 Pope Eugenius III has excommunicated the Holy Roman Empire and the Knights allies the Kingdom of Sicily.

A member of the former Royal Family comes of age.





The Masjid in Mosul was sabotaged by Agent de Briho. The Grandmaster’s son Peter takes the appointment of the Prince of Antioch has the successor of the Order.




The Venetian Dodge and the King of Portugal passed away. The Order of the Templar Knights are recognized as the strongest faction.

The Duke of Basra and the Duke of Tortosa converge on the Seljuk Capital of Mosul the last strong hold of the Sultan. The city is besieged.

The Sultan decides to sally and strike at the Duke of Basra who has the smaller force.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Duke’s elephants with cannons play an intricate part in the battle at the start.



Unfortunately the elephants become uncontrollable and run rampant amongst the ranks. The elephants are put down to prevent further harm.



The Sultan is taken down early in the battle.
The enemy begins to retreat into the city and the Knights are right behind.



It is a clear victory for the Order. The city populace is exterminated and 7,000 florins added to the treasury.



The Seljuk Sultanate are no more.

While the Knights celebrate their victory word comes from the east of a new threat.



The Generals who fought the Mongols are aging and the new generation is untested. The showdown with the Byzantines is coming closer. The Grandmaster not sure of the future of the Order under his son Peter and marries off his youngest daughter Braitz to Peter de Payns possible returning the leadership back to the founding family.

Financial report of 1369

[oz_wwjd]

Nice work so far.Looking forward to the report of how your empire will hold up against the might of the Timurid Empire and their elephant hordes.

[Northnovas]

The Second Wave 1370

An ominous opening to the decade rumours from the East had been confirmed. A great army has reformed and their making their way west. The Cities of Basra and Baghdad have an air of nervousness the Grandmaster is in the City of Baghdad.



Goodwine has been rewarded for his victory over the Seljuk and appointed the Duke of Mosul.



The Templar Knights Overview



The Grandmaster is aging and is concerned about his successor. He agrees to leave his brother Phillip Councillor Heir followed by the Duke of Alexandria. Both men are of age but the concerns for the Grandmaster’s son Peter to take control will be a detriment to the Order.



Peter has been titled the Prince of Antioch is the only Commander in the West. He has resurrected the Army of Antioch to prepare for their mortal enemy the Byzantines. Peter is convinced the Orthodox ally is working against the Order and must be destroyed. His army heads west to Adana.

The Treasury is ordered to reserve funds for a war chest. The Knights are mobilizing.

The Timurids have been spotted northeast of Mosul.



News arrives from Baghdad the Grandmaster Ansehelm has passed away and Phillip is the new Grandmaster.





Otrwinus the Honourable is the Councillor of the Order.



The Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire also passes away and the faction is reconciled however the Kingdom of Scotland is excommunicated.

The Timurid Army in the Mosul Pass and watched intelligence reveals the Khan is leading the Army. There are no supporting armies in the pass.



The Duke of Alexandria passes away and position of Councillor of the Order is passed to Goodwine dePayns.



The Second Wave of Timurids arrived from the East entering the Mosul Region. They were not detected by Order Field Agents.



This second group of leaders appear capable to lead.



The Duke of Basra has cleared the Rebel Army from Baghdad. He is equipped with a large mercenary army heading for Mosul.



The Timurids are travelling in same formation of their predecessors. They appear to have no main goal and it was decided to attack this neutral faction so they can be contained. Under the Papal Decree of 1329 the Order declared war against the Timurids. All armies gravitate to the Mosul Region.



The Khan’s Army is attacked in the Mosul Pass by the Duke of Edessa

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Duke lacked cavalry but he had elephants. The enemy was facing it’s own special weapon.



The Knights remained on the higher ground and braced for the oncoming enemy.



The elephants easily won the Duke’s right flank.



Unfortunately things were not going well on the left flank. The Knights were holding but the casualties were mounting.



A fortunate break occurred the Khan was caught up in the front line rallying his troops when an arrow struck him in the face.



The Timurids began to falter with their leader down. The battle quickly became a route unfortunately there were no Templar cavalry units to clean up the routers.



The first battle and victory achieved. The ransom was refused.

The Order is at war and Goodwine de Payns is the new Grandmaster. Phillip the Cruel died of pneumonia in Mosul. The Old Guard is gone.
The de Payns have returned to the power. Though the two families de Payns and d’Alvarez are strongly intertwined with Goodwine’s wife being a d’Alvarez daughter of Ansehelm.



The two families now share the power for now.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Other diplomatic information the King of France passes away and France is now at war with the Venetians. Relations with the French are so-so because of the Order's Venetian Alliance.

While elephants shake the ground around Mosul an earthquake rocks the City of Constantinople.



The Pope has ordered the Duke of Mosul to convert the local population.



Some family members join in the new missionary work.



The Army of Jerusalem led by Arnold de Payns has reached the Mosul Region and removes a Rebel Army interfering with the supplies to Mosul. All Commanders except Peter the Mad are in the Mosul region to fight the Timurids.



The Treasury has created the war chest to fight this new enemy.

[Ferret]

Nice to see this still going strong, and finally something that may dent your Empire! Keep it coming

[Northnovas]

A Traitor in the Order

The Grandmaster receives news Denmark and the Byzantine rulers have died and wonder if it will affect their alliances with the two factions. Relations have vastly improved with Portugal and some would consider perfect.

Bishop Kurt Santiago is promoted to the College of Cardinals. The Kingdom of France has been reconciled.

The Order of the Templar Knights is considered the strongest faction for the time being.

In 1381 the French King dies. The Duke of Mosul receives special recognition from the Pope for the missionary work of spreading the word in the Mosul Region.

The young Duke of Basra could no longer resist the temptation of power with his mercenary army and rebels against the Order.

The young Arnold de Payns is dispatched with the Army of Jerusalem to capture and kill the traitor.



The traitor tried to find sanctuary in a monastery but was refused any aid. He took his army to high ground and waited.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Rebel Duke had several regiments of heavy cavalry but the Templar Spearmen were up to the challenge and easily countered the cavalry attacks.



Both generals were in the middle of the scrum one to save his life the other looking for the reward and recognition.



The rebel cavalry were decimated and the Knights pressed on closer to their goal.



The generals met up again this time there was no escape for the Rebel Duke.



Finally the Rebel was captured, cut down and quartered. No one Rebels against the Order.





The young de Payns will be rewarded for his effort.

The Timurids make no effort to advance further west. There is tactical movement to contain them but the Knights cannot find the right time in the open field.

The Royal Courts of Europe are seeing many changes has rulers pass away from the Republic of Venice, Kingdom of Hungary, Kingdom of Aragon and the possible end of a dynasty in Poland.

The Region of Constantinople saw a different battle has the clergy rounded up and had several Heretics executed.

The Field Agents in the Mosul Region were woeful inadequate in trying to remove the Timurids senior command.

News from the far north of another faction destroyed.



The order is lacking experienced commanders and none of the new generation come close to Ansehelm d’Alvarez attributes to fight this new horde. A young noble is brought into the Order.



The Grandmaster agrees for a political marriage and arranges to marry a Princess from the Danish Court solidifying the alliances. This is the second political marriage between the two factions.



The Grandmaster finally sees a break in the Timurids positioning and launches an attack. Unfortunately he has no supporting commanders.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Knights cannot set up the artillery correctly because of the sandstorm that blew in. The army cautiously moves forward.



The Knights prepare a massive cavalry charge though they are out numbered in cavalry.



The Knights are the ones with the artillery elephants but they are two small to make a difference. The Timurids respond with Grand Bombard fire however they were soon silenced by the Knights mortar crews.



The close combat commenced but the Timurids seem to have an endless supply of men. Their army was cut down to half but the Knights were getting tired.



The enemy held their position and the Knights were exhausted and could not continue to fight. The units began to retreat.



This battle belonged to the Timurids. The Templar prisoners were executed. The Timurids were now the strongest faction.

There was concern about a Crusade being called against the Sicilians and the City of Tunis. Fortunately the Pope reconciled the faction and saved the Grandmaster the decision of warring against a long time ally.
Bishop Andreas Guiskard is elevated to the College of Cardinals.

Diplomat Wenzell Bresch explores the former lands of the Kievan Rus to find Byzantines in control of the area and a map exchange is made with their allies.

Battle of Mosul Flats

The Duke of Edessa and the young noble Henry Wahren isolate Khanzada Husayn the Pious from the main army and engage.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Timurids were sandwiched between the 2 armies. The enemy general made for high ground and attacked Wahern’s smaller force.



The Bombard crews quickly opened up and targeted the large elephant crews of the enemy.



The enemy had the higher ground and the communication was lost with Commander Wahren’s Army.



The Knights marched up the sandy terrain shaken by some of the elephants running amok.



It wasn’t long before the Knights fled from the terror of the large beast.





All the prisoners were executed including Henry Wahren.

By 1389 the Templar Knights are recognized as the most advanced faction their closes rival their allies the Byzantines.
However the military struggles are evident in the map of the Region. The Timurids are abundant and reinforced. No city has been besieged or lost by the Knights but they have not been able to secure a field battle since the first contact.
The Grandmaster is deciding to withdraw to the safety of the cities and let the enemy come to them. Most of the cities are now supported with cannon defenses.

[Northnovas]

Another Century Ends

There has been no progress against the Timurids but it has not discouraged nobles from joining the Order. The Grandmasters niece Ana who was on diplomatic work in Northern Europe has found a suitor who wishes to join the Order. Good commanders are in short supply and the marriage is approved.

The Kingdom of Scotland and Hungary have called a truce. This is reflecting the power the Scots have gained by fighting for land in Central Europe. The Knights Danish Allies have also signed a truce with the Kingdom of France.

A Russian and Aragonese Princesses have come of age. The aging Councillor Dimarus is still available. There could be a union of political convenience. The Kingdom of Aragon and Hungary sign an alliance.

Another young wealthy noble of Northern European stock joins the Order and is appointed Duke of Gaza.



More recruitment takes place as the Grandmaster marries off his sister Castelhana to a young noble from the Papacy highly recommended by his Holiness.



The Byzantine ruler has passed away and a regent has been selected to administer the realm. There is some uneasiness within the Byzantine Empire. The Prince of Antioch Peter the Mad was pulled from his watchtower duty along the Byzantine Border to be married to a young noble woman of the court Cara de Calvo. Grandmaster Goodwine did not need any incidents to take place with his allies by his mad nephew.

The College of Cardinal now has 10 clergy from the Order.



The Agents of the Order have had no success removing threats however their intelligence gather has greatly improved to watch the Timurid Army and for investigating cities.



There has been a lot of unrest with Heretics and Witches sprouting up taking advantage of the Timurid Army marching the countryside. Many have been rounded up and executed some have been fortunate too escape and continue their teachings.

A dark cloud approaching Mosul.



Again Khanzada Husyan was alone and targeted for an attack. He still had several regiments of elephants. The plan was not to engage early with the enemy.
Arnold de Payns moved from his defensive position.



With the use of a ballista and bombard crew he moved them close enough under concealment and opened fired on the centre ranks.



There was some initial success some of the elephants panicked and inflicted casualties amongst their ranks.



Unfortunately there was no enough firepower and some small cavalry charges that were of no worth. The main armies did not engage.





The Timurids executed all prisoners captured.

Councillor Dimarus takes in another noble to replace Henry but one with a little more of an edge to fight the enemy.



The noble Otterbach makes a name for himself clearing a Rebel Army from the coastal towns on his way to Jerusalem.



The Grandmaster orders the rest of the settlements to be policed and cleaned up of Rebel scum.

Medina Region



Thebes Region



The Grandmaster was pleased with the young Captains work that he is commissioned and accepted in the Order. His loyalty above reproach he is given command of the Egyptian Frontier.



Miron the Pious takes the initiative on the newest commander of the Templar Knights and orders a nights attack.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Commander d’Ulhoa tries to use his artillery to his advantage. Though he is limited by the target what is even more disturbing is the enemy reinforcements that arrive on the field and he cannot summon any aid.



The Knights prepare for the onslaught of enemy troops.



The Knights are almost surrounded enemy reinforcements begin to show up on the north side of the battlefield.



The Knights are quickly surrounded and fight to gain a safe retreat.



The route begins and there is no turning back. The 6 regiments of Merchant Cavalry that started in the battle were decimated. It was over when it started. The Timurids executed the prisoners.

The futility of the Field Agents confirmed.




Otterbach is appointed the prestigious position of King of Jerusalem and is forming army to reinforce the Mosul Region.

The century comes to a close and the Order is in a tight situation. The war of attrition is not working against the enemy. Though their movement has been contained the resources of the Order are being drained. There will have to be a new strategy for the new century.

[Northnovas]

Siege of Mosul 1401-1404

The Knights had withdrawn from the fields of Mosul and away from the fortress. The Timurids under the blackness of the moonless night and the pelting rain made for the walls.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The rainfall was like a steady waterfall only the flash of lightning temporarily show silhouettes of the men out of the darkness. The thunder was so loud and frequent that it could not be distinguishes from the cannon fire from the fortress towers or enemies artillery.



The enemy’s siege equipment was destroyed early in the attack.



The Timurids stormed the wall with ladders bringing their heavy infantry. The Knights had several regiments of spearmen manning the wall.


The fighting was intense but the enemy gained the upper hand and controlled the gatehouse of the fortress.



The Knights smartly retreated to the secondary wall leaving a hand full of men to delay the enemy entering the gates.



The enemy elephants had also breached the outer wall from the east and were making their way to the second gate.



The enemy attack on the secondary fortifications took little time to overtake. All the units retreated to the third and last wall of defence. The storm was relentless.



The enemy approached the final gate and lined up to attack the last line of defence.



The Knights had luck on their side and the final wall could not be breached. A close victory for the Templar Order.





The defender of the fortress is recognized and adopted by Councillor Dimarus

The Financial Report of the Order



From the World of Science

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Knights are the most advanced civilization and the Guild request the removal of a Venetian Merchant from the Constantinople Region. The assignation attempt failed it will have to be a business transaction.

The Pope has called another Crusade to Riga this would be the Third Crusade against the city and this time the Scots would be the excommunicated faction. The relations with the Danes are perfect but poor with the French.

Mosul is besieged again by the Timurids.

1404 Mosul

Another night attack is made on the fortress but the weather is much more favourable to the crews of the cannon towers.
Again the siege equipment is stopped early.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The enemy heavy infantry remains in the area of the broken ram and then try to advance to the walls making excellent targets for the archers.



The siege tower was next to fall but the enemy was not dissuaded and launched an attack with their ladders.




The Knights were ready and the moral was high amongst the men and their new commander.



The enemy was routed from the walls. The first defence held. A regiment of spearmen were sent out to remove the enemy ladders.



Another close victory for the Order

The Crusade grows with Sicily, Venice and Leon-Castille and declaring war against the Scots.

Jonas Otterbach is appointed Lord Seneschal and King of Jerusalem.



More Rebel Armies are removed from the interior by the brave men of the Order.





An unfortunate event occurred in Basra when Father Sifridus tried to remove a witch from the community. The Priest was over come by the witches spell.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Dieter de Barros is appointed Commander of the Knights by the Grandmaster for his defensive successes in Mosul.



The Guild donates a monetary sum to the treasurer for the removal of the Venetian Merchant



The Rebel Armies are being removed easily but the Timurids are another matter. The Knights strategy appeard to be working.

[Northnovas]

Road to Edessa

The Timurids back off of Mosul and continue west to Edessa. The Council request the removal of the Khan Dayir the Pious.



A Byzantine Princess comes of age. Some shocking news arrives from the Iberian Peninsula.



The Witch Crueza from Basra is located near Baghdad and brought to trial.



A new Archbishop of the Realm is appointed in Cairo.


The Third Crusade to Riga grows with Hungary and Poland declaring war on the Scots.

The Timurids besiege the City of Edessa. The city is ill prepared for an assault on it’s walls.

The Hungarian Ruler passed away and Councillor Dimarus marries a lady of the court Riva de Paiva. A Spanish Princess comes of age.

Other Faction Announcements



The newest member to the Templar Knights from the Fortress of Mosul.



Battle of the Eastern Desert 1410

The City of Edessa was besieged the Timuirds were concentrated around the city. The Templar Knights under the command of the Councillor and mustered their forces east of the enemy. The largest battle to take place in field of battle, the Knights with 4 commanders and over 40,500 men the Timurids with 5 commanders and over 30,000 men. (zero added for effect)

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Councillor had the centre of the field and was confronted with a small force enemy force. Reinforcements were pouring on to the field from both sides.



The Knights attacked first to remove the enemy horse archers.



Khan Tungge commits his unit early into the fray.



The Knights were getting the upper hand in the battle. All reinforcements had arrived but not engaged fully. The Timurids bring the elephants to gain the initiative.



Khan Tungge falls in battle the Knights concentrate missile fire on the elephants one regiments has broken and running amok.



The Knights were able to neutralize the elephant regiments. The reinforcements arrived to the centre of the battlefield. Like any major battle a turning point occurs that determines the outcome. A second regiment of elephants routed and begun to run through the men in the field at the time the reinforced heavy cavalry arrived. The Knights run right into the stampeding elephants causing casualties and all the Knights Calvary route.




The cavalry could not be rrallied and there was nothing to counter the last Timurids charge. The battle was over.



It was a crushing defeat. The enemy loss a general but the Knights lost 2 one being the Duke of Edessa.

The Family Tree

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Finacial Report.



How long can Edessa withstand the siege???

[Northnovas]

Stalemate Continues in the Levant

The Timurids continued the Siege of Edessa.



After the last major battle the Templar Knights withdrawal from the field was disorganized and the generals were scattered in small armies. The Timurids attacked the beaten Knights. Several small battles took place in around the City of Edessa.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The prisoners were executed.

The Knights were rebuilding their armies and looking for new members. A distant relative of the de Payns from France joins the Order.



Faction Announcements of 1411



The largest battle to take place in the History of the Order is commemorated.



In the City of Constantinople sickness strikes the population. Tally:
2702 citizens and 106 soldiers killed

Councillor Dimarus attacks a small enemy force.



Peter the Mad is in the Constantinople Region but he does not enter the city. The death toll now stands at 5192 citizen and 208 soldiers dead.

The King of Jerusalem secures a minor victory for the Order against the Timurids.



Faction Announcements of 1414



The City of Edessa is safe for the time being the Timurids lifted the siege moving pass the city. Manfred Bresch is appointed Duke of Edessa.

The victors of the Third Crusade to Riga



Constantinople sees no relief the death toll stands at 7496 citizens killed 226 soldiers killed.

The Knights Danish allies are at war with the Kingdom of France. The Knights Sicilian allies sign a ceasefire with France.

The Grandmaster leaves the capital for the Edessa Region with a small force and meets a small enemy force.



Rome 1417

Pope Eugenius III dies and an election is called for the successor. The candidates:



The election goes to Dieter the Missionary who is now Pope Alexander VI of the Order of the Templar Knights.



The Kingdom of Scotland and the the Holy Roman Empire are reconciled.



A new weapon is developed in Constantinople



The stalemate continues the Timurids have backed off from Edessa they had made attempts to continue west but the bridges were blocked and they retreated rather then try to cross. The Knights are struggling to build an army of quality soldiers to produce the knock out punch.



The Timurids continue to live off the land with no city for a supply base. The two armies jockey for position trying to obtain a complete victory.

[Northnovas]

Calm before the Storm

The decade continues with the stalemate in the Outremer. Like two great warriors face to face in the ring each sizing the opponent up and waiting for the time to strike.

Thorsten de Payns is appointed Duke of Basra and other faction news.



From the cultured part of the Western World



The trade war with the Byzantine Allies heats up has another route is lost.



A new member to the family and appointments in the Order.



Lorenz Scherer is appointed Duke and Commander of the Nile Army.



The allied capital is kept under a watchful eye.



A Rebel Army is cleared from the Damascus Region from a force mustered in Gaza and enroute to the Edessa Region.



The Sicilian Allies reports the death of their ruler. The Byzantine Allies are at war with the Kingdom of Poland. The Republic of Venice is at war with the Republic of Novgorod.
Faction Announcements of 1426



The meeting of the armies in Edessa Region



Dodge Rambaldo of the Republic of Venice has been excommunicated and the King of Spain passes away.

Faction Announcements of 1429 and Financial Report






One battle did take place a minor scrum occurred and quickly enlarged to a bigger battle before the Knights withdrew.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Grandmaster puts out a call for new recruits and will try to form the most elite units to rid this Horde from the Outremer.

[Northnovas]

The times they are not changing 1430-1440

The Grandmaster makes the first move with fresh troops from the west and the support of the King of Jerusalem he strikes at a perceived weak point of the enemy army.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Knights are placed out along the dune. The Grandmaster only has a small window of opportunity before the enemy reinforcements arrive. He strikes with a massive cavalry charge. 5 regiments of horse from the St. John Order swoop down on the enemy.




The enemy counters with their cavalry and a large scrum takes place between the two armies.



The enemy movement is swift and they engage the Knights front line just has the King of Jerusalem arrives with reinforcements. The Knights appear to have the initiative.



The great cross is brought onto the field to inspire the men and it appears to working. They pick up the pace in their fighting.



The Knights hold the line and an opportunity arises that the Khan is taken from his horse and killed.



The enemy is relentless their leader down and they press harder. The Knights continue to hold but for how long. The battle drags on for hours in to the mid afternoon.



Grandmaster Goodwine fails to keep the initiative and drive the first enemy army of he field. The enemy’s reinforcements arrive… elephants and all hell breaks loose.



It is over too soon. The Knights that have remained flee the field has the elephants have their way trampling men.




The Timurids execute the prisoners they have captured.

The Order’s wealth is accumulating and where the victories on the battlefield are scarce there are many in commerce and forge stronger alliances with the wealthy.



A young noble from Europe is married to Constanca de Payns niece to the Grandmaster. He is quickly given a command in the Odessa Region.



A monument is placed where the last Templar defeat happened a year ago. When will there be monuments of significant victories like in the days of Grandmaster Ansehelm?



Relations with Hungary improve and word is received the Polish Ruler is dead.

By 1434 the Timurids were still boxed in Manfred the Chivalrous moved in to cover the Grandmaster’s retreating army. The Timurids move out southeast of Edessa.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Manfred spread his forces out to cover the route the Timurids had taken.



The enemy was well prepared fro their offensive and several squadrons of elephants could be seen amongst the enemy ranks.



The Timurids charged full bore with horse and elephants. The Knights made a valiant attempt to hold their ground.




Their efforts proved futile has they were crushed it was everyman for himself has they tries to escape the battlefield. All prisoners were executed.

Some Faction Announcements for the year 1434



Manfred de Alvarez is promoted to the College of Cardinals and relations with the Byzantine allies are perfect in diplomatic circles.

After some brief victories the Timurids made no effort to break out of their box till 1437. In a series of night raids the Timurids pushed northeast. The Knights retreated because they commanders could not coordinate their support of each other in the night. The Timurids attacks were relentless finally leave the Knights no further options but to stand and fight.

The first occurred with the newest commander Dietrich Kniess.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Kniess kept his army at close quarter and using the cover of darkness attempted to avoid the enemy and retreat from the field.



Unfortunately he could not leave the battle field unscathed and took a many casualties trying to escape the volley of enemy arrows.

Arnold de Payns was the second commander caught in the enemies night tactics and could not retreat any further.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The young commander identified a defensive position and prepared his forces.



The missile regiments and artillery appeared to holding the enemy at bay at the start of the battle. Then the enemy made a full charge of heavy cavalry and the center ranks collapsed. They could not be rallied.





The prisoners were executed.

The Fourth Crusade of Riga is called against the Venetians. The Templar Knights quicky joined and appoint a Crusader to lead the army. A state of war now exists between the Republic of Venice and the Templar Knights.



A Crusader from the Second Crusades passes away peacefully. The Duke of Constantinople position will be passed onto Peter the Mad of the Third Crusade. His army will wait in Constantinople and join the Crusaders marching through.

The Kingdom of Scotland has been excommunicated by the Pope Alexander the VI. The Pope appoints Phillipp de Dardia to the College. The Knights have 7 seats.

Also news received of another faction destroyed.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The King of Spain is dead.

Councillor Dimarus sits in Mosul recruiting men for the Edessa Region. The Grandmaster has no heirs an it is unknown who will succeed Dimarus.



The Kingdom of France is excommunicated and the Crusade grows with nations declaring war against the Venetians.



The Timurids slowly move east and the Knights capitalized on the lead army.





A victory small but important the enemy prisoners are executed swiftly and enemy flee the area east.

Faction Announcements of 1438



The Grandmaster recruits two agents from Antioch who slowly begin to take out Timurid Captains gaining valuable experience in the process.




The Crusade grows with the Holy Roman Empire the Pope orders the Knights to spread the word into Orthodox lands. A Knights Danish Allies are now at war with Novgorod.



A new commander is recruited from Mosul



Overview of 1440



The Timurids south of Edessa

[Northnovas]

The Breakout or Break Through? 1440-1450

Faction Announcements of 1441



The Crusaders march through the Constantinople Region picking up some clergy on their way to Riga.



Agent Theodericus de Lima looses his life in an attempt to remove Miran the Pious.

The Khan was shaken by the attempt on his life and lost a battle to the Knights.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

There was plenty of movement in and around Edessa. Kniess had little time to enjoy his recent victory. He was pursued by several armies and could not retreat any further standing his ground south of the city.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

It was a night attack and Kniess had no reinforcements to help him.



There were plenty of Muslim Archers in Kniess' Army and commenced them to fire at will creating a rain of flaming arrows on the approaching enemy.



The enemy’s cavalry moved in returning fire.



The Timurids also had a Heavy Bombard unit for support and successfully knocked out the Knights Bombard Crews.



The Elephants were moving into the melee supported by the Khan’s Bodyguard Unit. The archers concentrated all fire on the Elephants and the Khan.



The Khan General is struck down by a flaming arrow.



The loss of the Khan did not phase the enemy soldiers. The reinforcements arrived and pressed on to the Order’s defences.




Another loss on the field

On some religious news a Catholic scholar proposes some new thinking.



Other news from the Cardinal the passing of Siegfried the Unorthodox and the promotion of another



The Pope is pleased with the work of the Templar Knights in spreading the Gospel where directed.



The Timurids finally crossed the river that had been their barrier. They were now in smaller armies.



The Timurids were spread out and unsupported in some instances. The Knights overly pursued these small pockets.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Council approaches the Grandmaster and advises that there are settlements ripe for the taking. The Byzantines are loosing settlements to Rebels it was time to assist their ally. The settlement of Rhodes was the target. Men and Ships were recruited from Constantinople for invasion of the island.



1447 Faction Announcements



More enemy pockets attacked and routed.



Jonas de Payns Duke of Adana is an up and coming general. He is appointed the title Commander of Knights.



East of Aleppo de Payns reinforces de Sousa who managed to recruit 2 Elephant Regiments against a large Timurids force.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The terrain was rough and both sides quickly tried to grab the high ground.



The cavalry units quickly clashed the Knights had the elephants on their side for this battle.



The Timurids had the Bombard Crews and the Knights responded with the Elephant Cannons.



The Knights maintained the initiative and in the end ran down the retreating units.



A clear victory for the Templar Knights the enemy prisoners were ransomed and it was accepted.

A couple more minor victories were achieved splitting the enemy forces further





Maximillian de Sandin executed his prisoners rather then ransom the elephants back to the enemy.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The location of the Timurids by 1449 a formidable force still in the Edessa Region, the other areas smaller unsupported armies and the Men of the Order are gaining confidence.



Financial Report of 1450

[Northnovas]

Its Over!!! 1450-1459

The Timurids financial power is what is paying for their armies to remain in the Outremer. The Byzantines are the overall most powerful faction.



The mission to Rhodes was running behind. The Byzantines had already besieged the Rebel settlement.



A new Knight of the Order



The Timurids have spread out in to smaller pockets and besiege the great city of Antioch.



A series of battles take place with in the year and the first battle to remove the last Timurids in the Edessa Region.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Sandin takes command of a small outpost waiting for reinforcements from Edessa.



The enemy brings their elephants closer to the post. The Knights return with bombard fire trying to excite the elephants.



The enemy follows up with heavy cavalry support of lancers and archers. The Knights hold their position.



The enemy elephants begin to run amok and are no longer effective, the Knights avoid their path.



The Khan Khanzada commits his units to rally the faltering cavalry charge. Sandin counters and the two generals duel, though Sandin has the support of his infantry.



The reinforcements arrive and the enemy is in no position to fight to armies.



The day is won.



It was a great victory but at a great cost two Templar Knights fall in battle.

The Edessa Bridge

Jonas de Payns was protecting the important bridge that was preventing the Timurids from rejoining. The enemy had split into the Aleppo and Edessa Regions. This bridge was their only communication link and the Templar Knights had control for now.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Jonas de Payns could not believe his luck he was in a classical defensive position that was well documented by Grandmaster Ansehelm in the fight with the Mongols. The Timurids were determined to take the bridge.



The Knights commenced a rain of arrows on to the opposite bank supported by bombard fire. The Timurids waivered but continued.



The order was given and the charged commenced every available missile concentrated on the enemy crossing the bridge.



The enemy had managed to reach the other end of the bridge where a wall of spearmen waited.



The Knights committed the elephant regiments and the enemy broke.




It was clear victory the Khan had barely escaped with his life but the bridge was secured for the time being.

The return to the Bridge 1452

Jonas de Payns had successfully repelled an eastern attack but now he faced one from the west and a much stronger force.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Knights prepared for the same defence. However their supplies from Tortosa had not arrived and they were low. The Timurids had also brought their elephants to the fight.



The Timurids moved quickly with a heavy cavalry charge over the bridge.



Things did not go has planned the enemy charged quickly following up with the elephants. They could not produce enough missile fire to stall them on the bridge.



The frontline broke and the enemy gained a foothold on the riverbank.




The Khan was overconfident in his success and was cut down by the last missile regiment.



It was a clear defeat this time for de Payns but a great enemy general had fallen and no commander to lead the remaining force.

The clergy arrive first to Rhodes and it was no longer under enemy control. There was better time then to spread the gospel on the Heretics and Witches practicing on the island. The invasion force remained on standby.



After the second battle of the bridge the Timurids lines of communications were open but they were still spread out. The Grandmaster felt that he had gained the initiative and an order was made to remove the small pockets at all cost to prevent a regrouping.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

To continue........

[Northnovas]

It's Over! (Part II) 1455-1459


The Council requested that the pressure on the Venetians be kept up and to Block the Port of Ragusa. The veteran Army of the Third Crusade was heading south towards Venetian territory.

Edessa 1455

After Sandin's victory early in the decade he relentlessly hunted down small pockets of the enemy armies. He finally game face to face with Khan Khanzada Miron.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

There was no chance of letting this man escape with overwhelming odds in his favour Sandin was leading the charge.



The battle was fierce and the enemy was far stronger then the numbers appeared.




However the odds were overwhelming and there was no way the Knights were going to loose the prize they sought.



It was a great victory the Edessa Region was now clear of all hostile forces.



With the fall of Khan Khanzada Miron only one Khan remained with an army in the Antioch Region.

1455 last khan



Another member joins the Order through marriage to the Family.

1456 new members



The King of Jerusalem left the city to aid in the cause and removed some Rebels from Damascus.



Antioch was again under siege by the Timurids. There was only two army groups Antioch and Aleppo.



Grandmaster Goodwine moved to relieve the city of Antioch and rid the enemy from the Region.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The battle opened with the Knights cannon fire. Great fortune….



Dayir the Pious had fallen. One great enemy general down the Timurids communication was broken. The Knights moved in with a cavalry charge.




The Knights morale was high and they continued to press into the enemy lines only to gain greater success.



It was a free for all now. The Knights could not be stopped has they continued on a broken army.



The city was free.



The Khan Khanzada was wounded and captured. There was a significant price for his release but the Grandmaster could not let the enemy have another opportunity.

After the city was relieved the Grandmaster pressed on and located the last Khan of the Timurids hiding in the hills between Antioch and Tortosa.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Knights again had the significant numbers but could not under estimate the enemy force no matter how small.



The Timurids possessed a very elite and experienced elephant regiment the Knights committed some horse archers to harass the elephants.



The elephants were not deterred by the horse archers and made it to the top of the ridge silencing the cannon crews.




The Knights were loosing the battle the elephants could not be stopped. Another stroke of Good Fortune……





The most significant battle ended the decade.

Other news that had occurred outside the Outremer



The passing of the Spanish King which would open the opportunity for an alliance and the passing of the Byzantine Ruler which could end an existing alliance

Councillor Edmunds was married to a Spanish Princess forming a new alliance with Spain.

The most important news that reached all the western and eastern courts was …..

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

It was finally over and at great cost.

Overview/Finances.



67 Turns to capture 36 territories. It is time to break a long standing alliance and put Constantinople in jeopardy.

[Chaotix]

Great AAR, and you managed to take down both the Mongols and the Timurids! Is this the end of the AAR, or are you going to continue to fight the Byzantines? They look pretty tough...

[cassu]

excellent AAR, hope you dont stop now even if the biggest enemies are gone

[Northnovas]

The Constantinople Accord 1460

After the defeat of the Timurids there was a peace in the Outremer. Diplomat Elberhard Hummel arranged for the Constantinople Council inviting his Holiness Pope Alexander VI, Grandmaster Goodwine, Councillor Edmund, Jonas de Payns and Governor of Constantinople Peter d’Alvarez. All the family members of the Order were represented.

The Templar Knights met with the Papal officials to discuss the Orthodox question in the Outremer. The Byzantines were the strongest faction known and their influence was growing destroying several Catholic factions. The Knights had saved the Western and Eastern factions from the Hordes of the East. Now it was time to solidify the faith and bring the Templar power to its fullest potential.

The second longest alliance held amongst nations was to be severed and the armies prepared to move into position to capture and link the city of Constantinople with the rest of the empire. The Pope and Grandmaster agree to the terms and initiate the steps to implement war with the Byzantines. Should there be any crusades called the Knights will not commit men to the call till the Byzantines are defeated. This mission was too important and time was of the essence.



Though the enemy was defeated there was a campaign to remove Rebels factions from remnants of defeated armies. The young generals went into the countryside and removed them.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Grandmaster was in a joyous mood and permitted the marriage of one of his nieces to potential recruits of nobility who wanted to join the Order.



There was a new generation coming of age Peter the Chivalrous sons were ready to take command and prepared to govern the great city of Constantinople.



Through the diplomatic circles the Knights maintain relations with one old ally before they break with another



Relations with the Byzantines drop to amiable the Scottish dynasty is in trouble with the passing of their ruler.

A very influential Rebel with unknown origins is removed from the Adana Region

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Faction Announcements the King of Jerusalem’s son comes of age and a young noble is titled for his work against the Timurids.



A new Duke of Mosul is appointed by the Grandmaster



A Byzantine settlements are infiltrated



Diplomat Hans de Colton attends the Byzantine capital and demands the Caesarea Region be given to the Knights he is outright refused.
Agent Peter von Saint Omer is killed trying to infiltrate Iconium.

The Ruler of Russia has passed away and a regent is appointed other diplomatic news



A new seal is created in the Order given the position of Grandmaster greater authority and recognition.



The diplomatic talks in Nicaea have become more intense has the Order demands a tribute from the Byzantines. The Order’s armies are mobilizing to the Byzantine Borders.
Another marriage into the family



The blockade of the Venetian Port was successful and the Council funds 3 Knights Hospitaller for the capital city.
Now the Council would like a trade agreement with the Moors.
Relations with the Byzantines is now rated at so-so has more demands for tribute are read to the Court.

Edessa 1468

The Duke of Edessa mobilises a force from the city to remove the last threat from the Outremer. Baybars Bursali of Seljuk Sultanate decent has been in the Edessa-Mosulregions for years and was suspected of supplying the Timurids in the last stages of the war.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Duke masses his force and immediately goes on the offensive. He will not let the olf fox escape.



The Knights utilize their missile regiments to soften up the rebel centre.



The first contact is with the Frankish Knights.



The generals meet on the field the “old fox” is a worthy opponent.



Victory


The Region is at peace.

Cardinal report of 1470 the Pope picks members from other factions



Another young noble comes of age in Constantinople



Financial report


Object achieved by Diplomat Hans de Coton

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

[Northnovas]

Operation Gateway 1470-1479

It was time for the Templar Knights to make their move and unify Constantinople with the rest of the empire. A low level diplomat was send to the Byzantine Capital.



The demands were read to the Byzantine Court



They were flatly rejected. It was time for the offensive campaign to begin. All generals went to the prepared SOP. War had been declared!

The first attacks were the lightly defended island fortress.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Citadel of Diyarbakir was besieged. Near Caesarea the first field battle took place between the former allies.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The enemy attacked with reinforcements coming from Caesarea. The enemy contained heavy infantry regiments that were rained upon by flaming arrows has they advanced.



Before the infantry units could engage combat the Knights ordered a cavalry charge.



The enemy units were scattering just has the reinforcements arrived.



Again the Knights cavalry came in to support the infantry and route the last enemy regiment.



Victory


The Citadel of Caesarea was besieged.

Iconium was the next city to fall before the year end.



The Venetians were reconciled and a state of war still existed between the two nations.



Other announcements de Ponte was appointed the Duke of Alexandria. There was a large force in the African frontier. Councillor Edmunds had made his way to the coast from the Red Sea to take some of these veterans with him to the Byzantine shores. The capture of Rhodes and Nicosia brought advance naval technology to the Templar Knights bigger and faster ships could be built for the navy.





The Venetian ruler had passed away and peace could be obtainable with the faction.

Another young general in the Constantinople Region ready to fight for his father


A new Lord Seneschal


The agency reports the northeast corner of the Byzantine Empire is lightly defended. The enemy’s armies must be in the field for the cities are only small garrisons.



The Citadel of Caesarea easily falls.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The siege ends in Diyarbakir with a Templar victory.



The Byzantine capital of Niceaa is under attack.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

There was no need for a long siege there was plenty of artillery and a new weapon for the Knights “Mighty Mary”



A siege tower was placed on the far right flank as a diversion. The garrison committed itself to the front gates.



The breach in the wall was made and the knights charged forward




The young general made a charge through the gates and was heading for the town centre.



Victory was at hand the Byzantine capital had been captured.

An up and coming agent removed some orthodox priest to clear the for the catholic clergy in Iconium.



The Master Spy of the agency was in Sinop trying to locate the new capital and see what the enemy had prepared on the Black Sea coastal cities.



The Duke of Constantinople’s youngest son comes of age.



Another new member to the Order by marriage to the Grandmaster’s niece



A preliminary financial report: The sacking of the enemy’s cities had been very profitable to the war effort.



Further intelligence of the remaining Byzantines cities in the Dardanelles



The Byzantines and French sign a truce and the Templar allies the Danes have declared war on the Byzantines.

Faction announcements of 1477



The Citadel of Canakkale falls Operation Gateway is a success. Constantinople is linked by more then one region to the rest of the empire.



Yerevan had fallen into chaos and was no longer under Byzantine control. The Knights besieged the city with a small force. The Byzantines also had interest in the city and attacked the besiegers.
It was a close battle but not a victory for the Knights. The only defeat in the campaign.



The Orthodox Bishop was removed from the Constantinople Region he was trying to create unrest in the predominant catholic region.



Obits of 1479



Pope Meter


Relations are perfect and the Pope is pleased with the Order's work. Heretics are being tried and executed all over the empire.

Overview.

[GMaximus]

A realy enjoyable read. I congratulate you for a job well done! Definately one of my favourite reads, even more so as I don't yet have M2TW.