For Faith or Greed? A Broken Crescent AAR

[Galain_Ironhide]

56K Warning! Over 300 Screenshots on this page!
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https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/125px-Flag_of_Kingdom_of_Jerusalem_.png Kingdom of Jerusalem https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/125px-Flag_of_Kingdom_of_Jerusalem_.png

Main objective: ultimate victory for Kingdom of Jerusalem – capture 60 regions.
Secondry Objective: Remain as close as possible to all of the main characters’ traits. Ie: Balian de Ibelin and Raymond de Tripoli are chivalrous, where as Prince Guy and Raynald De Chatillon are Dread Generals and likely to be ruthless.
Adoptions allowed.
GC/Battle Difficulty VH/H

As told by Sir Galain Ironhide, Templar Knight de Outremer.

1174. Baldwin IV has become of age and taken full control from his regent, Count Raymond III of Tripoli, of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. Born a Leper and quite often sickly, the King must overcome many issues much more important than of that of his own health.

The Kingdom of Jerusalem in the early days of BaldwinIV
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/Map_Jerusalem.jpg
The city of Jerusalem
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/jerus1550.jpg

In the Beginning-

Inundated with betrayal, insolence and a complete lack of knowledge of the enemy, the Kingdom of Jerusalem has struggled through the past 75 years since it was created after the First Holy Crusade in 1099.
Many times over the years, when complete victory of Christendom, over the Muslim nations across the Levant, looked achievable, greed for power would stand in the way, thus sending shattering cracks through the fragile Kingdoms’ foundations. As a result of this decaying rulership, the Kingdom now consists of only 7 provinces, or county’s as they are otherwise known. The biggest losses of late were the Principality of Antioch who, although still of French origin, have severed all ties and the County of Edessa who had been only recently overrun by the Turks.

The seven remaining cities of the Kingdom
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/369-kojMapofkoj.jpg

Baldwin, son of Almaric must show that he is not only capable of ruling this holy land, but what’s more, do what his predecessors have failed to do: Solidify and expand the Kingdom and guarantee its survival.
Although currently not at war with any of the Muslim Nations the threat of being overwhelmed by their constant presence strikes fear into many an experienced Knights’ heart. A new Sultan, Saladin (or pronounced Salahuddin) of the Ayyubid Sultanate has risen to take charge of his people in Egypt, and being the highly influential man he is, was able to coax the Emir of Damascus to bow at his feet and become part of his empire. Damascus, who was once an ally of the Kingdom, was betrayed during the Second Crusade in 1148 and has not forgotten our backstabbing ways. Thus, as a result, the Ayyubid Sultanate now surrounds the Kingdom to the North and the South. Let us pray that he does not succeed in unifying the rest!

King Baldwin IV
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/370-KingBaldwinProfile1better.jpg

Sultan Saladin of the Ayyubid Sultanate
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0549-1178saladinprofile.jpg

The Pope-

At first, eager to maintain ties with the Kingdom for the first 50 years for its influential value, the Papacy has all but swept Baldwin and his Emissary’s past pleas for financial & military support aside. The only event that may ever bring the Popes support could very well be the loss of Jerusalem itself!

The Pope is very restrained in his support these days.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0387-Papalassistance.jpg

The Royal Family-

The Family Tree
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0375-familytree.jpg

Because of his failing health, and the possibility of not fielding an heir of his own, Baldwin married his sister, Sibylla to Guy of Lusignan, after blocking a move by Raymond de Tripoli to have her married to the older brother of Balian de Ibelin. Although tainted as quite a crude man with the tenacity of a broken Trebuchet, Guy of Lusignan carried with him the right people in the right places to hopefully ensure better diplomatic, economic and military relations with motherland France. However, if this man was to one day become King, who knows what fate might bestow us.

Prince Guy de Lusignan
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0372-PrinceGuyProfile.jpg

Baldwin IV’s Generals-

In the Levant, Baldwin carries with him two noble Generals who will stand or die by his side without question. Balian de Ibelin, the son of Barisan and his former Regent, Count Raymond de Tripoli III of Tripoli. Both men are quite able soldiers with stern beliefs and moral values. However there is one thorn in the side of Baldwin’s rule, that of the powerful Lord of Kerak, Raynald de Chatillon. More aligned with the likes of Prince Guy of Lusignan, Raynald is widely renowned for his lack of adhering to orders and for being cruel and merciless. This man is a snake in the grass and may not be trusted.

Balian de Ibelin
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0371-BaliandeIbelinprofile.jpg

Count Raymond de Tripoli III
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0373-RaymondProfile.jpg

Lord Raynald de Chatillon
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0374-RaynaldProfile.jpg

Now, the pieces on the board are set in motion and the Levant quietly awaits the inevitable conflict. Come What May......

My Lords, Ladies of the Court, Squires and exulted guests, I bring you now the following tale:

FOR FAITH OR GREED? – A BROKEN CRESCENT AAR

[Galain_Ironhide]

Hi, this is my first attempt at an AAR.

I will try and update as regularly as possible, providing my work, family life, social life, etc, etc, doesnt get in the way.

If you have any suggestions, critiscisms or even a compliment please post here and I will take everything on board.

My first part should be up tonight.

Thanks.

Galain.

[Galain_Ironhide]

The First two years of Baldwin IV's Rule


1174 -

The Economy

The Kingdom is facing financial ruin. With no trading partners, no allies and no economic relief from the Papacy, Baldwin sets his emissaries out on a mercy mission to re-enter diplomatic relations with the Muslim states.

The first and and most important step was to begin trading with the Abuyyids. It is essential for our survival that peace is kept... for now.

https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0385-Traderightsayyubids1174.jpg

A diplomat was also sent to the Pricipality of Antioch to try and acheive unity of the the Holy Lands once more. Bohemund, Duke of Antioch was less than receptive of this idea of swearing fealty to his new King and promptly turned the diplomat away. Baldwin was disappointed, but this did not change his plans of consolidation. One day Antioch will bow at his feet!
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0386-PrincofAnitoch-Rebelfaction117.jpg

The next step to the recovery of the Kingdom is expansion. Baldwin looked to where he may succesfully gain territory and not spark war with his biggest threat, Saladin. Two provinces come to light, Baalbek and Hama, Both of which had not yet yielded to the rule of Saladin. A quick and effective strike was needed.

The Seige of Baalbek.

At first, no real information about Baalbeks defences was known. But the fact that it was a small settlement in a key defensible area, that would sure up the Kingdoms foothold on the terrain was more important.

https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0378-Baalbekexpansion.jpg

Immediately Baldwin ordered Balian de Ibelin to march his army to the gates of Baalbek and begin the siege.

https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0382-aalbekBalianseiges1174.jpg

After 6 months of siege Balian was ready to attack.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0393-Turn21174BalianattacksBaalbek.jpg

Facing a formidable force, the enemy stares at the Knights of Outremer in despair from their walls. Balian then addresses his troops in true Noble fashion and the battle begins.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0395-baalbekbattle-Balianaddressesh.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0396-baalbekbattleKnightsofoutremer.jpg
The gates are busted wide open and already the force inside is retreating to the city centre.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0402-baalbekseethemrun.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0406-baalbekrebellaststand.jpg
Let us rejoyce! The rebel settlement is easlily overcome with very light causalties! Balian lets all captives go and lets them rejoin their families within the city or take up service to Baldwin. Only soldiers die in the conflict, no citizens.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0412-baalbekclearvictory.jpg

Humble in victory and accepted by the people he had only just fought, Balian would spend the winter in Baalbek, planning the next big push to Hama.

An Alliance is Forged
The lord is smiling upon us this day. With hard work and gifted words from our emmissary, the Kingdom of Jerusalem has agreed to an alliance with the Kingdom of Armenia. The Armenians will prove to be essential allies in the future to come.

https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0421-armeniaallianceannounced2.jpg

1175

The first child of the Royal family is born, a daughter of Guy and Sibylla.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0440-1175familytree.jpg

The emissary has another a favorable meeting with another Muslim faction. The Turkish Sultanate agree to have trade rights with the fledgling Kingdom of Jerusalem.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0430-TurkishSultanateTraderights.jpg

The seige of Hama
It had become apparent in the early part of the year that the Ayyubids also had their eyes on the small city of Hama. As a result, Balian de Ibelin was forced to leave the smallest possible garrison at Baalbek and march to Hama and lay siege. The attack on Hama could not have come at a more better and precise moment. Narrowly beating the Ayyubids to the city gate by only half a day, the Ayyubids were then forced to turn their army around and march back to whence they came. A conflict now between these two countries, for either side would prove disastrous.

https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0434-1175BalianbeatsAyyubidstoHama.jpg

The Ayyubids, however were less than impressed. They let us know about it.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0443-1175ayyubidsnothappyaboutHama.jpg

The Battle of Hama was a resounding success and again as at the seige of Baalbek, the city was saved from looting and pillaging and the prisoners were let free to either rejoin the city population or join service with the King.

https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0445-1175BattleforHama-Balian.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0448-hamabattle-onthewalls.jpg

https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0455-hamabattle-runaway.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0458-hamabattleclearvictory.jpg
Balian would remain stationed in Hama for the next few years to come.

Enter the Lord of Kerak
Raynald de Chatillon, also had ideas of his own little expansion in this year. He with very little support marched on to Tayma at the east of his Castle city of Kerak. Ordered by the King to turn around and march back to protect his own county, Raynald ignored him and layed seige later in the year.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0436-1175RaynalddiscoversTayma-aban.jpg
Brashly,Raynald continued to ignore countless orders from Baldwin to return home.

The story continues....

[Galain_Ironhide]

finally completed the first phase of my AAR.

Apologies to those who read a half finished piece ofwork today. I learnt a lesson though, DONT try and do an AAR at work. You just don't get anything done. :clown:

Another thing, for anybody looking to do an AAR, read Northnovas Sticky thread on AAR's. Very helpful. I didnt realise how much work you actually had to put into these things. I have only entered 2 small posts and they have taken a considerable amount of time. Full respect to all you other AARers out there!

Oh well plenty more to come. Hope you like so far.

Again, any comments are very welcome!

:2thumbsup:

[Zim]

Looks good so far. :2thumbsup:

I had considered doing a KOJ aar after my Makurian, but obligations in MP games made it difficult. I doubt I'd have done as well anyway. :yes:

[deguerra]

Oman won't be happy with Raynald conquering Arab settlements...:laugh4: :whip:

Good work! I must admit I have trouble with AARs myself. I start, and get going, and then get bored and give up.

[Galain_Ironhide]

Raynald with his small force lay siege. Being of such small number and by what his spies tell him from within the settlement, attacking now would only prove disastrous. As greedy as the Lord of Kerak is, he is no dummy. Instead he decides that starving the enemy out would be the best option for now.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0460-RaynaldseigesTaymaagainstKings.jpg

A not so great outcome.
On a roll, our emissary lands on the doorstep of the Eastern Roman Empire, in the small fishing city of Attalia. The ERE are very hapy to regain trade rights with their former allies, but on this occasion were not interested in re-commencing an alliance. Damn Fools! Perhaps next time we deal with the likes of the ERE, we might deal with someone of a little more influence, rather than the town chirugeon, who would not know of anything more than his own backyard.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0462-EREtraderightsbutnoalliance.jpg

1176 -

A son of the Ibelin Family comes of age.
Balian's eldest son, John de Ibelin comes of age. Rumored to be only a shadow of his fathers ability, King Baldwin is still no less very happy to bring him on board and into service. Afterall, he is young and can still be moulded into a good general, maybe even a great one. Time will tell...
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0470-JohndeIbelinsonofBaliancomesof.jpg

Antioch
Furious at missing out on Hama and Baalbek, Saladin looked for another outlet north of the Kingdom to keep the screws on Baldwin's expansion. The logical choice was the Principality of Antioch. Saladin had learnt from intelligence reports that Duke Bohemund and King Baldwin had taken a disliking to each other. Wanting to capitalise on their hate and mistrust of one another, Saladin sends two forces to Antioch, gambling on the likelyhood that no support would come from the Kingdom. One Ayyubid army travels north around the kingdoms newly fromed borders of Hama. The second boldly drives through the mountain pass at Baalbek and then turns north to the south gate of the grand city. Saladin was right, Baldwin ignored the Dukes pleas for reinforcements. Unfortunately for Saladin,both armies are defeated and Antioch, although depleted and battered, remains under the rulership of Bohemund.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0475-1176AyyubidsattackAntiochrebel.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0478-1176ayyubidsfailseigeofantioch.jpgNow Antioch, although still standing, was vulnerable.

Oportunity
Knowing his rival was now weakened, Baldwin seizes the oportunity left by Saladin's forces and orders Raymond de Tripoli to march on Antioch! Sending a unit of his very own Knights of Jerusalem guards to act as the main lynch pin in the siege, showed Raymond just how important this attack was. No matter the cost, Antioch must be seized, to improve the still fledgling economy and without destroying it too. The seige lasts into the following year.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0484-1176raymondseizesopportunityse.jpg

The Georgians
Lying north to the Turkish Sultanate near Iconium, our emissary manages to make contact with the Kingdom of Georgia. After long discussion of the Turkish and Ayyubid threat, the Georgian aggree to an alliance. Our position in the Levant is finally starting to look promising.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0482-Georgiaalliance1176.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0483-georgiaalliance.jpg

A New Queen.
Only through an arrangement could this, unfortunately for the King, be possible. Rachel de Brienne, daughter of the Count of Brienne from Champagne back in motherland France, was less than eager to join her new husband at his side. Not knowing anything of Baldwin, other than that he was a Leper, she at first was frightened even just to look upon him. As time would go by though, she will learn to accept her new husbands physicality challenges or else she may not last long in this land.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0468-BridepresentedtoBaldwin.jpg

1177 -

An Adoption
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0487-BaldwinadoptsAnseudeTiberias.jpgStill facing the possibility of not fathering an heir to the throne, more from the fact that Baldwin could not convince Queen Rachel to the bedchamber even more so than from his disability. The King is forced to look for another suitable heir. For should Prince Guy de Lusignan's life come to an untimely end before fielding a son of his own, the line would be broken. As a result Baldwin chose to adopt his second cousin, Anseu de Tiberias, as his very own. Should Prince Guy survive the next following years, Anseu would have nothing to worry about and would not have to be King. But Baldwin needed a contingecy plan and Anseu was it, the line could no longer be broken.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0488-1177familytree.jpgThe Royal Family was begining to take shape.

The Kypchak Confederacy -
Looking much less accommodating than any of the otherfactions that our emissary had made ontact with, the Kypchak's relunctantly aggree to Trading rights. Abruptly, the emissary is then told to leave.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0517-Kypchaktraderights.jpg

The Battle for Antioch
Still, by any terms of siege warfare, the Kingdom force, led by Raymond de Tripoli was quite undermanned. Raymonds force only outnumbers Duke Bohemunds by 100 men, but unfortunately, logistically and financially, Baldwin can not commit any more troops to this cause. Unhappy with he has, Raymond called the attack nonetheless.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0520-1177antiochbattlebegins.jpg

New Tactics
Instead of conventional tactics, Raymond split his forces into three groups. The first, consisting of a unit of Seargent Spearmen and a unit of Militia Spears, rammed the Cities' main south entrance. The second group, just consisting of two units of Mounted Seargent Spearmen were grouped at the west gate, more so to act as a diversion and to pull troops away from the other fronts. The Third group and what will prove to the most important consisted of the Kings' Knights of Jerusalem, 2 units of Spearmen, a Mounted Seargent Spearmen unit and Raymond's Personal Bodyguard. The idea was to have these men climb the wall and get the gate open from the inside.
Climbing the wall on the East the Knights of Jerusalem stormed over and quickly took the battle to the ground level inside the gate area.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0522-KnightsofJerusalemsneakoverwal.jpg
Outnumbered and with no hope of survival the Knights fought with brave discipline and skill. The 2 units of spears joined the fight and this is where the feircest fighting would take place, but still the gate remained shut leaving Raymond on the wrong side of the wall. Duke Bohemund, a true soldier to the end, joined in the fray to halt these Kingdom men. But, this was to be his undoing, with only a dozen men left to face, one of the remaining Knights of Jerusalem felled the old Duke with a single blow of his spear.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0526-1177antiochbattle-Bohemundfall.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0528-antiochbattlelastmanstandingkn.jpg
Finally, the last of the Kingdom men fell at the west wall and that gate remained closed.
On the main South gate however, the first group had finally successfully busted the gate open but were being overwhelmed by the defenders there. Realising the breach, Raymond quickly ordered his mounted troops to make a dash for the open south gate. Against spears or swords, he must take the city now or he will fail. Taking heavy losses the mounted troops busted through the opening and quickly took control of the gate area, killing and routing the spearmen and outremer knights that were defending.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0529-cavalrybreaksthroughspearwalla.jpg
With Duke Bohemund dead, the defense of Antioch faltered. Victoriously Raymond quickly mopped up the routers and marched through to the centre and took control of the city. It was a highly costly battle, with a lot of the Kings most important soldiers perishing in the conflict. But for Raymond to have not seized control of the city the consequences would have been dire. Baldwin was still impressed with his Generals victory and awarded him the new title of Duke of Antioch.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0537-1177antiochcostlyaveragevictor.jpg
Antioch was put under the control of the King and as in the Battles that Balian de Ibelin had fought, the citizens were spared, graciously they accepted the new rule.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0539-antiochoccupation.jpg

Lord of Kerak's Shame -
News of Raymond's victory had filtered down through to Tayma were where Raynald de Chatillon was still sieging the small Castle. Deflated, Raynald knew that the Kings next move may come with a strike against the Ayyubids. If he were to successfully take Tayma, it would be of no geographical or military advantage to hold it with a small force. And whats more that would then make his Castle at Kerak vulnerable again because he had too many troops spread out. Reportedly in a fit of rage, after destroying all of the contents within his personal tent at the siege site, Raynald ordered the immediate withdrawal of his men back to Kerak.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0515-1177Raynaldfinallystartstolist.jpg
Dejected Raynald hung his head in shame all the way back to Kerak.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0516-1177raynaldmarchesbackembarras.jpg
But he swore this would not be the end, and he will take what he beleives is his. A better plan is needed....

[_Tristan_]

Very nice AAR, keep going...

I particularly like the way you roleplay the different generals according to their own views rather than a centralized deus ex machina's will

[Galain_Ironhide]

1178 -

Blessings
The beginning of the year bought joy to the courts of the Kingdom. Two holy matrimonies took place. Firstly the wedding of Prince Anseu de Tiberias to Sybil de Champagne, daughter to the Count of Champagne.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0545-1178Anseubridepresented.jpg
The second marriage to take place was that of the young John de Ibelin to Isabelle de Tortosa. This wedding was held at Ibelin Castle just east of Jaffa.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0542-1178JohndeIbelinbridepresented.jpg

Princess Sibylla, wife of Prince Guy, bore their first son, Bohemund. Ermengarde, wife of Raymond de Chatillon also gave birth to their second daughter Morphia.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0550-1178newfamilymembers.jpg

A Better Time
Since the acquisition of Antioch a quiet peace had rolled over the Kingdom. This was not the case however for Baldwin, who carefully planned his next moves to solidify the position of his realm in the Levant. Many of his advisors had reported back that economy was finally starting to turn around.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0543-1178status.jpg
His military advisors weren't quite so jolly. The Kingdom army was still too sparsely thin and attack would still be very hard to defend against. To make matters worse, news from emissaries and spies reported that Saladin had a great army camped just outside his city of Qahira. If Saladin was to mobilise his army against the Kingdom now, Baldwin would be through! Combine this with Saladin's army of Damascus, sitting precariously close to the Baalbek border, only annihilation could be in the Kingdoms future.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0548-1178SultanSaladinsarmy.jpg
Baldwin had to eliminate this threat. All he needed was time, he prayed that the almighty had heard his thoughts.

1179 -

Turkish Alliance
Two of the greater Muslim factions, The Great Seljuks and the Turkish Sultanate have joined forces. Our emissaries indicate that currently this poses as no threat, however Baldwin has still asked that more information is provided that involves their movements.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0551-1179turkishalliance.jpg

Another Possible Heir?
After only a year of communion, Prince Anseu and Princess Sybil have given birth to their first child, Milo de Tiberias. The Royal family is finally beginning to flourish.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0554-1179newfamilymember.jpg

The Eastern Roman Empire Speaks
Not giving up on the last meeting between the two factions, our emissary makes it to the ERE capital of Constantinople. It is here he greets the Emperor himself, Manuel Comnenus. Reluctantly recognising the re-emerging Kingdom's status in the Levant, the Emperor agrees to an alliance. Besides, if all else fails with the Muslims, the Kingdom would serve as a fine buffer to protect the ERE from the advancement of the Ayyubids and Turks.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0555-EREallianceaccepted.jpg

1180 -

Son of Raymond
Hugh de Antioch, Son of Raymond de Tripoli has come of age. Loyal unto the end like his father, Hugh will pose as a great asset. The biggest obstacle that stands in the way ever more these days is the young Generals' battle experience, of which he has none. Baldwin decides to groom him in Jerusalem for the short term.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0593-1180HughdeAntioch.jpg

Merchant Turmoil
Trade has suffered a devastating blow in this one year. Five merchants have their assets seized. The biggest culprit is the Eastern Roman Empire! A bad move on their behalf, but for now not much can be done. For the sake of maintaining a good relationship with them, Baldwin bites his scarred lip and plans a new tactic for staying in control of his assets.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0558-1180merchantturmoil.jpg

1181 -

Makuria
Laying just below the Ayyubids is the Kingdom of Makuria. Labelled as one of the bigger economic powerhouses in the Middle East, Makuria has been a target of the Ayyubids for many years. Leopold de Chartres does a fine job in persuading them to ally with the Kingdom of Jerusalem. Now Saladin, just like Baldwin faces the possibility of a 2 front war should war break out. Baldwin is pleased with his diplomats progress.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0559-ArmeniaAllianceaccepted.jpg

The New Duke of Tripoli
Now that Raymond had been sitting in the seat of Antioch for a period of time, looking after two counties was starting to wear the old General down. Baldwin, seeing this pronounced John de Ibelin, Duke of Tripoli. Duke John is the first Ibelin family member to be gifted which such a title.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0565-1181JohndeIbelinnewDukeofTripo.jpg

Another Girl
Ermengarde, wife of Raynald de Chatillon gives birth to their third daughter. Reports have been heard that Raynald was somewhat disappointed to hear that he still had no son to carry on the Chatillon name.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0564-1181newfamilymember.jpg

1182 -

Peace is Shattered
After four years of peace and very little diplomatic confrontation with the Ayyubids, Baldwins spies had reported a lot of activity on the Kingdoms North Eastern Border with Damascus. Sensing imminent trouble, Baldwin mobilises Balian de Ibelin with his forces from Hama. Quiet so far, Prince Guy catches wind of these movements and intercepts Balian on his journey south just outside of Guys castle city of Tyre. Acting upon his own ambitions for might and power, Guy removes Balian from his post and orders him to reside at Tyre, "upon Kings orders". Guy then marches the army, plus more units obtained along the way, to the Eastern border. Finally reaching the Foothills west of the city of Damascus, Guys army faces off with the Ayyubids main Northern army. Spies reported back there was a smaller contingent also further to the south.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0569-1182GuyatDamascasborder.jpg

Pre-emptive Assault
Sick of being camped in the foothills of Baalbek/Damascus, Guy decides on a pre-emptive attack. He catches the enemy by surprise.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0571-1182guyinvadesDamascus.jpg
The battle is short. Prince Guy's army has the high ground and much of the enemy is cut down by Crossbow fire. Prince Guy was elated with his first major victory in battle
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0574-Guys1stbattle-easyrout.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0575-clearvictory.jpg
His treatment of his prisoners left a scalding mark on the Kingdom's reputation though, ruthlessly putting the dagger to the throat of every last captured Ayyubid soldier.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0576-Guysprisonersexecuted.jpg

The Rape and Pillage of Damascus
With the main Northern Ayyubid Army destroyed, Prince Guy turned his immediate attention to the city of Damascus. Earlier infiltrated by a Kingdom spy, the city gate was wide open for Guy's force to penetrate through.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0578-1182DamascusBattlegatesopenbys.jpg
Largely dependant on the force that was on the border, Damascus was totally undermanned and unequipped for seige.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/05791182battleratio.jpg
Before the Ayyubid Governor knew it Guy and his army were in the city centre. The Governor was mercilessly slain.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0581Damascusbattle-citysquare.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0583-damascusenemygeneralfalls.jpg
It was a steamrolling victory. Feeling the rush of instant power bought to him by the spoils of capturing this beautiful city, Prince Guy de Lusignan allowed his men to have their way with the local populous. Much was taken, many died...
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0584-Clearvictory.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0585-1182damascussackedbyGuy.jpg
Word reached Baldwin the day after the successful seige of Damascus. Whilst Guy had succeeded in eliminating the northern threat, Baldwin was enraged with the news of his Heirs cruel and ruthless doings. Not only that, he remembered somewhere, that he actually ordered Balian de Ibelin to the border, not Guy de Lusignan. The FOOL! Does he realise now in doing this, there will be no peace with Saladin in the future?! Baldwin seethed in his throne and pondered how this will overly affect his plans.

Time to Split
In just a short period of just a couple of days, Prince Guy has managed to cripple Saladins northern army. All that stands in the way is the far northern castle of Homs and the small expiditionary force sitting on the far southern border of Damascus. Guy decides to split his force and send half to Homs and the other half will attack the remaining expiditionary force.Guy sends for Hugh de Tiberias to mobilise from Hama and meet the rest of the troops and lay siege to Homs. Hugh then waits to see what tricks the enemy has to offer.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0586-1182forcesplitinhalfhughdeanta.jpg
Guy then marches south and attacks the remaining Ayyubids.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0587-Guyshalfarmyattacksremainingay.jpg
Another easy victory and Guy maliciously executes every last Ayyubid prisoner.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0589-clearvictory.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0590-prisonersexectued.jpg
Too easy, is the thought from Prince Guy. Bloodthirsty for more, Guy marches his army south to join in what will become a battle of survival for either the Kingdom or the Ayyubid Sultanate. If Guy thinks this will be easy, he has not yet met the likes of Saladin!

[Galain_Ironhide]

Hope you've enjoyed the latest installment of my AAR. It will now probably a week or so until my next update as I now plan to play out the GC for a while.

A big thanks to those who have replied and given me encouragement to continue with this.

Galain :2thumbsup:

[Ramses II CP]

I actually started my own KoJ VH/VH campaign after reading the first part of your AAR. I've been a bit more aggressive than you, immediately taking Damascus and Homs so I could slaughter their double reinforcement stacks in relative peace.

The KoJ unit roster is very powerful, even if their position is compromised. I'm quite impressed; quality spearmen, cheap crossbowmen, and loads of heavy cavalry. In particular their spears make it all the more clear how pathetic the Rajput spears are in comparison.

Keep up the good work! :2thumbsup:

:egypt:

[deguerra]

Very nice AAR. The "style" you have going is something I aim for in all my SP games, just makes them more fun, but too often I find myself too caught up in defeating a faction to roleplay effectively.

It should be noted for fairness, that according to the views of most historians (or so I have read) Raynald de Chatillion was actually the ablest and most loyal commander Baldwin had, whereas Raymond of Tripoli was far more set on claiming the throne for his family.

Also, personally, I dislike the somewhat "Kingdom of Heaven"y feel that BC gives the KOJ. The colours and units, I must admit, are nice. I would prefer other pictures, and more historically proven traits and ages (Baldwin is a bit too old at the start, I assume for game reasons). Guy and Raynald, in particular, are treated a bit harshly :D

But, of course, that is only my own opinion, and I do not mean it to detract from your fun! Keep going!

[Galain_Ironhide]

Thanks for the praise! :2thumbsup:

Yes I must admit too, the Kingdom of Heaven feel to BC detracts a bit, though I have tried to steer away from what the movie depicts.

I can promise you one thing: Balian and Sibylla wont be having an extra-marital affair like in the movie :clown:

As for Raynald and Guy, I have tried to use them in what I imagine they would have been like, through what I have read, both on the net and in books. But it is funny though because historians have a terrible habit of contradicting one another.

Stay Tuned....... :2thumbsup:

[deguerra]

But it is funny though because historians have a terrible habit of contradicting one another.

:

Isn't that the truth. It's amazing they actually agree on such things as "Stuff happened"

[Vladimir]

Good play on the brutal realities of that time.

[Galain_Ironhide]

1183 - The Ayyubid-Latin War

Captive
Now that war is upon Baldwin, the need for gathering information is vital. The best method to obtain any information of an enemy is to take prisoners. Caught up in Kingdom land whilst his country was under attack by Prince Guy, Ibrahim Ayyub, a cousin to Saladin, scrambled to make the Ayyubid Northern Border. Baldwins spies were already on to the young general, reporting his every move. In a decisive strike, Baldwin, along with Balian de Ibelin, personally marched out of the gates of Jerusalem and attacked Ibrahim just east of the city of Jaffa. Ibrahim immediately fled to the coast but became trapped when Anseu de Tiberius joined the chase and cornered him. Ibrahim decided he would not go down without a fight.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0491.jpg
Attacked from all sides, Ibrahim Ayyub had no chance what so ever and promptly surrended with his surviving entourage.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0495-baldwinbaliananseu-attackgen1c.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0495-baldwinbaliananseu-attackgen1e.jpg
Upon questioning, Baldwin learned very little from the captured Ayyubid General, except the constant insistence from Ibrahim that Saladin will bathe in the blood of the Latin Infedels who befelled Damascas and its peoples. Not forseeing any further use for this tightlipped young man, Baldwin offered out through his emissaries, a ransom in exchange for Ibrahim's freedom.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0495-baldwinbaliananseu-attackgen1f.jpg
Immediately, Saladin complied. Ibrahim was let go and allowed to travel beck to Gaza in peace.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0495-baldwinbaliananseu-attackgen1g.jpg
Baldwin then pondered, maybe he should have asked for more ransom!

Another opportunity for information came knocking on the door, as Baldwin's spies reported the sighting of yet another of Saladin's Generals personally patrolling the Jerusalem/Gaza border. With Balian de Ibelin and Prince Anseu in tow, Baldwin galloped his men at a furious pace to intercept this Ayyubid General. Aly was yet another young general, but of sterner material than that of Ibrahim Ayyub. Without any attempt of fleeing Aly stood firm and allowed Baldwin, Balian and Anseu to surround him and attack.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0503-3gensattackenemygen2.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0503-3gensattackenemygen2a.jpg
Aly, however, was not going to let Baldwin take him prisoner. He died at the blade of one of Anseu's men.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0503-3gensattackenemygen2c.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0503-3gensattackenemygen2e.jpg
Although a victory in battle, it was a sound defeat in the objective of what King Baldwin wanted to achieve. Without any further knowledge of his enemy Baldwin must go through the next steps of his plans with only what his spy network had to offer.

Newfound Economic Confidence.
The perils of constant acquistion of the Kingdoms merchants to other nations was starting to take its toll. This was until the turning point of a failed acquisition seemed to give many of the Kingdoms merchants a newfound confidence in surviving the cutthroat industry.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0596-newmerchantconfidence.jpg

A New Prince
Sibylla gave birth to yet another son for Prince Guy. He was named Peter.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0597-PeterdeLusignannewson.jpg

Diplomatic Ties
The King of Armenia sent word to Baldwin of his happiness to the penultimate elimination of the Northern Ayyubid threat. One can see however, that this may just be a ploy to get Baldwin's support should war break out between the Armenians and the Turkish Sultanate who have more recently been aggressively claiming lands.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0599-GoodrelationsKingofArmenia.jpg

Raynalds favourable success
Amazingly the Borders of the Ayyubids and the Kingdom was very sparsely protected by Saladins men. Knowing that his King would be keen to obtain more land in as quicker succession as possible, Raynald de Chatillon mobilised his small garrison and seiged the small town of Aqaba.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0591-raynaldseigesaqaba.jpg
After a short seige, Raynald attacked.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0601-1183RaynaldattacksAqaba.jpg
Literally only guarded by Turanshah Ayyub and his personal bodyguard, Raynald easily overcame the Ayyubid General and sacked the city for its bounty. Keeping most for his own halls, the remaining loot was sent to the royal treasury.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0604-AqabaBattle1183.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0607-AqababattleCleareasyvictory.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0608-AqabasackedbyRaynald.jpg

The North's Last Stand
The final lynch pin in the success of Prince Guy's northern asault, the City Castle of Homs was finally ready to attack. After beseiging for over 6 months, Hugh de Antioch made ready for the Assault. This should be an easy victory he thought to himself as there is no hope for them. How wrong about the easiness he was.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0610-1183HughdeAntiochattacksHoms.jpg
The attack began at the Castle's South wall, and with a few losses the enemy retreated to the streets. The gate was forced open easily.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0614-Homsbattle.jpg
Seeing a big hole in their defence Hugh ordered his mounted troops including his bodyguard into the streets before the enemy infantry were able to flee to the safety of the castles town centre.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0618-HomsBattle.jpg
This was a costly mistake as the Ayyubid Thaqlah infantry began to decimate Hughs Cavalry. Finally catching up to the fray, the Kingdom Swordsmen joined in and finally overcame the Thaqlah.
The fight carried on into the centre as the dead remained.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0620-homskojdead.jpg
Finally locating the Ayyubid General, Hugh was able to fell him.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0621-HomsbattleAyyubidGeneraldies.jpg
The regrouped Thaqlah maintained their defiant stance.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0622-homsBattleThalaqInfholdground.jpg
Until Finally the last enemy soldier was killed.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0623-HomsAverageVictory.jpg
It was very costly battle, one in which Hugh had grossly underestimated the strength of the defending enemy, plus their resilience in being overwhelmed by larger numbers. Lucky to have not died himself from a glancing blow from a Thaqlah axe, that opened a wound wound just above his knee, Hugh sat in the Ayyubid royal chamber and thought of the lesson he had just learned.

The local populous were indifferent to the new rulership and accepted Hugh. They were just happy not to follow the path that their Damascus friends had endured through Prince Guy.

[Galain_Ironhide]

Prince Guy Attacks Gaza
Marching south for the greater part of the year, after butchering Sultan Saladin's northern army, Prince Guy finally arrives at the gates of Gaza and lays seige. Defending Gaza is Fahim, one of Saladin's closest Generals
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0627-1183GazaSeigedbyPrinceGuy.jpg
Freshly reinforced by order of King Baldwin, Guy's army consists of a strong Cavalry contingent along with restocked infantry and Levantine and Italian Crossbow companies. Among the Calvalry is Baldwin's first company of Knights Hospitaller of St John.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0628-1183HospitallerKnightsorder.jpg
These knights, clad in black, have chosen to shy away from this conflict unlike their brothers in arms, the Knights Templar, but have now seen the importance of ridding a bitter holy rival.
Ready to attack, the Kingdom force outnumbers the Castle stronghold's defenders by nearly three men to one. Good odds in Guys book. The battle begins in late September.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0631-1183BattleofGaza.jpg
With the inclusion of the Knights Hospitaller, the morale of the Kingdom men is high, they are confident of victory on this day.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0632-KnightsHospitallerawaitbattle.jpg
Under a blanket of missle fire, a ram is bought to the gate and the battle begins. Seeing that the ram had made it to its position, Prince Guy then orders his men to bring their ladders to the wall. The fight for Gaza's walls is vicious.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0634-GazaBattleonthewalls.jpg
The Kingdom's Outremer Swordsmen begin to take a foothold on the walls when suddenly the castle's gate bursts wide open from the constant thudding of the ram. Every last available Kingdom infantryman on the ground then rushes through the gate where they are met by the remaining defending Gaza force. Prince Guy and his Knights remain a safe distance away from the walls, waiting to seize the right opportunity to rush through the gates.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0637-Gazabattleatthegate.jpg
General Fahim, a gifted soldier, is forced to join the fight in the defense of his city. This is until ultimatley, he is slain by the Kingdom men.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0640-GazaAyyubidGendies.jpg
The Kingdom flagbearers signal Prince Guy of the good news. Now it was time to capitalize. He ordered the cavalry to charge the gate. It became a total rout. Totally demoralised from seeing their Leader fall, the Ayyubid defenders fall back and retreat to the centre of the castle. Many do not make it, as the cavalry cut down the routers, killing and taking many prisoner.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0647-GazaBattle.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0650-GazaBattle.jpg
Surcombing to the pressure the Ayyubids are totally defeated in what was a masterpiece of a quick, decisive strike.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0654-GazaVictory.jpg
Not being able to help himself, Prince guy orders his troops that the town is to be filtered of any citizens not willing to accept Kingdom control. Mercilessly 868 citizens are put to the knife in a public execution as a result. Fear is the best method of leadership that Guy knows of, his own men can bear testament to that.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0655-GazaanothersackingbyGuydeLusig.jpg

The Mop Up
A reinforcement company of Saladin's men which were trying to get to the beseiged city of Gaza before it fell, now sat just a few miles away from the castle site. Needing to make sure that another detachment of men did not turn up to bolster their numbers, Balian de Ibelin mobilised from Jerusalem and attacked the small army.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0656-Balianreinforcementsclearenemy.jpg
With a huge high ground advantage, Balian de Ibelin was easily able to attack the Ayyubid force and destroy them.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0657-Onthehillawaitingbattle.jpg
The battle was over quickly. Showing the true form of a great soldier, Balian orders the release of the Ayyubid prisoners.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0660-BalianClearvictory.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0661-1183captivesreleased.jpg
Galant in his efforts, Balian then returned to Gaza where also Prince Guy de Lusignan awaits his next orders.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0662-1183ChivalrousBalian.jpg

In a land far away
Our emissaries have reported back that a small Indian nation had just been wiped out by the Muslims. Not much was known of these people, but may they and their way of life, rest in peace.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0629-1183newsfromelsewhereDehliCapt.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0664-1183chauhanrajputsdestroyed.jpg

A new Title for the son of Raymond
In very quick succession in just months King Baldwin has announced Hugh de Antioch to be the new Duke of Homs. Also, with that came the joy of his first son, Conrad. Hugh would remain in Homs for the next year.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0667-newbirthconraddeAntioch.jpg

On the Back Foot
This was an enormous year for the fledgling Kingdom, setting Saladin back massively. However, many are now fearing retribution from the Ayyubid Sultan, especially now given that in just one year he has lost 3 provinces to Baldwin. His main army has not been sighted for days, but they will appear, and when they do, heaven pray, Guy and Balian will be ready for them.

[Galain_Ironhide]

1184 -

Another miracle baby
Queen Rachael has given birth to yet another daughter. For a man told that he could not produce children, Baldwin has done extremely well in producing two daughters. His newest, Ida appears to be in good health. Baldwins greatest fear for his children however, is that he has not passed his legacy of lepracy to them. It is believed that he includes a plea into his daily prayers.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0673-1184newfamilymember-IdaofJerus.jpg
The family tree now looks like this
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0675-1184familytree.jpg

Diplomatic News
Our Emissary reached the Imamate of Oman. Trade rights were agreed upon.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0678-1184TradeRightsimamateofOman.jpg
Whilst in the courts of Oman, another deal was being struck between the Ghazi's and Oman. Our emissary reported back on how impressive watching two Muslim nations negotiate was and how different it is compared to two European nations negotiating.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0674-1184Alliance.jpg


He Has Come
After being spotted in the earlier part of the year gathering his forces near the border. Saladin began his march. Sending out an expiditionary force to clear the way of any Turks who were " sympathetic to the men of the cross".
Knowing that conflict was coming, Balian and Prince Guy ready the Egyptian Castle for its defense.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0676-1184Saladinarmyspottednearbord.jpg
By just after mid year, Saladin reached the gates of Gaza to retake what was his. A master of warfare and seige, Saladin let the enemy sit and wait what ever outcome may happen.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0680-1184saladinseigesAntioch1.jpg

1185 -

A Healthy Position
Despite the Kingdom having two of its finer leading men under seige at Gaza, the shape of the Kingdom was looking good.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0685-1185endofturnreport.jpg

The Defense of Gaza
After 8 months of seige, Saladin beleived he had the man power to successfully retake his former Castle. Agreeing upon a joint leadership Prince Guy and Balian de Ibelin batten down the hatches.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0687-1185Gazabesigedbysaladin.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0688-Saladinattacksgaza-guyandbalia.jpg
In the haze of the early morning, the seige towers rumbled to position to begin their assault.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0692-defenseofgazabegins.jpg
As the seige towers drew nearer, the Kingdom men jeered at their Ayyubid foes, shooting countless bolts into the Ayyubid formations.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0691-1185gazabringiton.jpg
Then it began. First, Saladins men reached the walls with ladders. Holding steadfast, the Kingdom soldiers tried to hold on.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0699-gazaAyyubidsonthewalls.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0701-defendingwalls.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0706-gazafightingonthewalls.jpg
Finally the Ayyubids broke the gates open. The Kingdom Seargent Spearmen formed a defensive perimeter around the breach. At this vital stage in the combat, Balian, Guy and the other mounted troops remain at the centre of the Castle.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0709-gazagatesbustedopen.jpg
At first the enemy infantry rushed in and met the wall of spears.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0710-gazatheenemyrushin.jpg
Then seeing the need for an overwhelming attack, Saladin charged his cavalry in through the narrow gates.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0711-gazaenemyrushin2.jpg
The fighting became fierce, and the Kingdom defence was beginning to show cracks. Hacking and slashing, Saladin was personally annihilating many a foe with single blows.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0714-gazafightforthegate.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0716-gazafightforthegate2.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0718-gazafight.jpg
Both sides were taking heavy losses with no advantage going either way. Not on the walls, nor on the ground. Half panic stricken, Prince Guy orders in his Knights Templar and Knights Hospitaller. They too are taking losses.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0719-battleinthebalance2.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0719-battleinthebalance.jpg
Not seeing any further choice, Balian de Ibelin and Prince Guy sound their respective charges and join the fight, Balian goes in search of Saladin.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0722-GuyandBalianJointhefight.jpg
Balian's body guard encouters the Sultan's remaining few bodyguard.

Rushing in became the correct choice, as it began to turn the tide of the battle. Finally the Ayyubids were beginning to be beaten back, although they still maintained their stance, further encouraged by Saladin. Until finally a Kingdom spear penetrated the mighty sultans armour sending him dead to the ground.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0723-Saladinfalls.jpg
Seeing their Sultan die, the enemy fleed. Their morale was broken with his death.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0726-Instantrout.jpg
Balian and Guy gave chase to the routers, taking whoever they could prisoner.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0729-gazachaserouters.jpg
Finally after the epic battle, the two Kingdom Nobles sat on their horses, bloodstained, opposite each other. They did not like each other, this is true, however by helping and commanding by eachothers side, these two men were able to help themselves get through a desperate situation, and even more possibly still, they may have just broken the enemies back now that the most influential man in Muslim culture lay dead. Giving eachother a slight hint of approval with a gesture of a small smile, they both rode back to the castle to retire from the long day.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0731-gazaClearvictory.jpg
With respect, Balian allowed two Ayyubid Prisoners to ride back to Qahir with the body of the fallen Sultan to be layed with his ancestors.


https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0732-ransomenemytroops.jpg
The rest of the prisoners then became an issue of great tension between Balian and Prince Guy. Balian preferring to release the men and Prince Guy wanting to execute them on the spot.
The only agreement they could come to was to ransom the prisoners. Unfortunately, now without such a noble leader as Saladin at the helm of the Ayyubid Sultanate, the ransom was rejected. Prince Guy got his wish and the prisoners were executed.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0733-ransomrejected.jpg

The Enemy Presence Remains
Saladin and his horde were gone, but a small encampment of Ayyubid men still stayed in the area.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0734-1185saladingonebutreinforcemen.jpg
Realising the threat, that they posed against the weakened castle garrison, Prince Guy call for the help of King Baldwin. Baldwin gathered what troops he could and marched from Jerusalem to meet them in the field.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0738-BaldwinmobilisesfromJerustorei.jpg
As quick as they could, the Ayyubids retreated back out of harms way.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0739-1185ayyubidsretreat.jpg
Balwin gave chase but his army was undersupplied and tired. He had no choice nut to turn back to the gates of Gaza and resupply.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0740-BaldwinmovesbacktosafetyofGaza.jpg
Noting his General's bravery, Baldwin then asked for the presence of Balian to join him in the hunt that will begin in they next year. Prince Guy was to stay in command of Gaza for now.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0741-1185balianjoinsbaldwin.jpg

The Royal Family Keeps Growing
Good news had arrived to Prince Guy from his wife, Sybilla. She had just given birth to another girl. She was named Jeanne.
Also in Jerusalem, Prince Anseu de Tiberius became a father once more as his wife bore him a daughter. They named her Arda.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0737-1185newfamilymembers.jpg

[Galain_Ironhide]

1186 -

The Kingdom

The Kingdom of Jerusalem's borders have now grown substantialy. In 12 years, King Baldwin has acquired Antioch, Baalbek, Hama, Damascus, Homs, Aqaba and Gaza.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0744-1185pictureofmapblownup.jpg

Ceasefire?!
Just directly after the fall of Saladin, the new Sultan of the Ayyubids , who is not yet known to Baldwin, sent an emissary through to Hama to try and bargain a ceasefire. Unfortunately, Baldwin's plans do not include the existence of the Ayyubids. The Ayyubid emissary was stripped naked and tied to his horse and led back to Damyut. This was an open insult to any muslim, even they would not want peace now.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0747-1186ayyubidsofferceasefirebald.jpg

The Push West
Now fully provisioned, Baldwin with Balian de Ibelin in tow marches west to encounter the Ayyubid forces that remain in the Gaza area.
The first group retreats but could not run fast enough.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0749-1186baldwinattackayyubidsingaz.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0751-1186baldwinattacksafterayyubid.jpg
The battle is practically over within minutes.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0755-battleoverbeforebegins-enemyro.jpg
It was a total rout.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0756-runaway.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0759-enemyrouting.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0760clearvictory.jpg
Baldwin releases the prisoners.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0761-1186captivesreleased.jpg

Damyut Falls
Experiencing a lot of luck logistically, Baldwin arrives at the gates of Damyut and thanks to Kingdom spies, all the gates are wide open for Baldwin to march straight in.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0762-baldwinattacksDamyut-Gatesopen.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0762-baldwinattacksDamyut-Gateso-1.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0762-baldwinattacksDamyut-Gateso-2.jpg

Using a pincer maneuver, Baldwin attacks at the south gate with most of the men.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0767-Kingsmenrushgates.jpg
Whilst Balian de Ibelin infiltrates through the City's west gate.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0769-secondryforceinfiltratewestgat.jpg
Most of the fierce fighting is at the main South gate.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0768-Damyutfightatgate.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0773-damyutbigfightatgate.jpg
Balians force go straight through the west gate when they are encoutered by the Ayyubid's mounted Ghulam Archer Cavalry.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0770-secondryforcemetbymisslecav.jpg
Seargent spearmen are bought to the front and the horse archers are easily overcome.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0771-secondryforcespearseasilyfinis.jpg
Balian's Secondry force then encounters a fierce defence in the city streets.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0772-sencondyforcefightinthestreets.jpg
The defenders have left a big gap though and Balian and his cavalry are able to slip through the side streets and into the rear of the defenders at the south gate.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0775-secondryfprcecavattackgatedefs.jpg
The pressure becomes too much and the defense starts to falter.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0780-damyutdefendersfaltering.jpg
Seeing his enemy run for the centre, Baldwin charges through the streets neglecting his own safety and fights with his bodyguard in the city centre against the spears alone until the rest of the force catches up.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0781-baldwinattackscentre.jpg
Finally catching up to their King, the remaining Ayyubids are killed.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0781-baldwinattackscentre1.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0781-baldwinattackscentre2.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0786-damyutclearvictory.jpg
Baldwin then ordered his prisoners to be set free to bear arms at the next encounter, should they be foolish enough.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0788-1186damyutcaptivesreleased.jpg
A man of great honour, Baldwin spares the city. Something of the likes which not many of the former Ayyubid provinces had come to known through Prince Guy de Lusignan!
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0789-1186damyutoccupiedbybaldwin.jpg

With anyone they could spare Balian then set out to rid Damyut of any Ayyubid resistance. He did come across one small detachment however they managed to slip the net to begin with.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0791-186Balianinterceptsayyubidstra.jpg
It did not last though as Balian caught up. The battle was again short.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0803-1186Balianattackssmallforceout.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0804-Fight.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0807-1186clearvictory.jpg

After cleansing the area of resistance, Balian than moves west to guard the bridge from any counterattack. Although with such a small force, defense may not be an option.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0809-Balianguardsbridgefromfurthera.jpg

A King to Remember
No longer a child. Baldwin's popularity was not only increasing in the Kingdom for his Noble deeds. Word had started to spread to the far reaches of Europe, where stories of a young ironclad King ruled his realm with great dignity and chivalry. Reports started to surface that maybe the King was not as healthy as he portrayed to be though.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0790-BaldwinID.jpg

The Great Seljuks
An emissary visits the Court of Antioch where he speaks to Raymond de Tripoli. Trade Rights are granted between the two Kingdoms.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0793-GreatSeljuksapproachdetripolit.jpg
Also in the city of Antioch, an Assassins Guild had been established. It had become apparent to Raymond that protection of Kingdom Merchants required some 'uderhanded' strategies.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0797-AssassinsguildAntioch.jpg

Not Noble Enough
Baldwin had spread word earlier in the year that he desired to inherit or 'adopt' another man of noble birth into the Royal family. Tancred de Cyprus was offered to the King by his father. The de Cyprus name was not up to Baldwins standards though and in the past, Tancred's father was a supporter of imposing another King on the throne, just before Baldwin came to power. Seeing that the de Cyprus' were just trying to consolidate power Baldwin ordered sir Tancred to return home, he was not needed here.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0796-1186TancreddeCyprusdeclined.jpg

A Gifted Spy
A report has come back that our gifted spy who infiltrated Damyut has also infiltrated the castle of Bilbeis. This should come in handy in the advancing months, when the plan for further attack comes about.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0800-BIlbeisCastle-Defenses.jpg

Finally, Another Chance
Sick and tired of not being allowed to advance himself, the old Lord of Kerak, Raynald de Chatillon is now in the strategic position of being able to successfully take the settlement of Tayma which he tried to take so many years ago. Gathering what troops he could, Raynald marched east down the long desert road.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0801-1186Raynaldheadsbacktotayma.jpg

Edessa attacked by the Turkish Sultanate
Our scouts have reported the increasing threat of the Turkish Sultanate grows as they have now begun seige of Edessa. In comparative size, the Turks hold just as many key provinces as what the Kingdom does. The only territory that seperates the two kingdoms is the independant province of Aleppo, a province which Raymond de Tripoli has had his eyes on for years. Let us pray we can acquire that territory before them.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0811-1186TurkishSultanateattcksEdes.jpg

[Galain_Ironhide]

Hope you are enjoying the story so far. This has taken a while just to get to this point, due to a lot of family and sporting commitments. There is plenty of more great action to come, in fact it just intensifies from here, those miraculous spawning armies have shown themselves a couple of times already and caused quite interesting moments, some of which I have not shown yet.

What I would like to ask of you, my fellow Throne Room Masters, (because I am obviously posting a large rate of images,) I would like to know if you are having success in downloading every image?..... or does your computer stop downloading the images after a while?

I am considering filling the next few posts (up to comment 30 I think it is) just with litte junkets just to clock over onto the next page so then I can keep adding without causing too much pain to people trying to view everything.

If I could possibly have your feedback from my question, you would be making my day!!!

Again, I hope you are enjoying my AAR and I promise there is plenty more to come.

Galain :2thumbsup:

PS: Darn it! I've jumped on tonight to add more story and realised I run out of pictures on Photobucket to post, oh well back to downloading them tonight I guess.

[Vladimir]

I'm getting all the pictures but I don't want them all. I really don't care to see if a family member is born, just their stats once they mature. Personally I care more about the strategic situation during battles and would be fine with fewer pictures during a siege. If you must, display what was where and the routes they took.

[Galain_Ironhide]

I'm getting all the pictures but I don't want them all. I really don't care to see if a family member is born, just their stats once they mature. Personally I care more about the strategic situation during battles and would be fine with fewer pictures during a siege. If you must, display what was where and the routes they took.

Thanks Vladimir, there is much wisdom in your words. :yes:

LOL, I think I get caught up with the 'eye candy' of this excellent mod during battles, which is probably a reason for the overload of battle images. I shall try and streamline my style a little.

All the best. :2thumbsup:

[barcamartin]

Great AAR ! I'm getting all your images, but as Vladimir said, alot are unneccessary. Perhaps you could use spoilers for the "less-important" ones, with a title telling you what's under. That way it'll be up to the reader to decide which pics to view. I don't care if there are many battle pics, that's the interesting part ! :D

[Galain_Ironhide]

1187 -

Eudes de Beaumont
Baldwin enlists the son of yet another powerful European Noble to become his own adopted son. Eudes was selected on his reports of good loyalty and leadership. Eudes is immediately assigned to Balian de Ibelins army that will march south in the coming weeks.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0812-1187NewfamilymemberEudesdeBeau.jpg


Raynald seiges Tayma
The Lord of Kerak, Raynald de Chatillon readies his men for the upcoming assault. Cutting all supply routes off from the small castle settlement, he will lay and wait until the local populace are hungry and too famished to put up a decent fight.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0813-1187taymaseigebegins.jpg
Finally happy with what he sees, Raynald orders the assault.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0888-1187-battleforTaymabegins.jpg
Tayma is overrun by Raynald and his men easily. The walls and Gate are first to crumble.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0890-climbingthewalls.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0892-fightonthewalls.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0893-gatesopen.jpg
Then finally havoc is brought to the streets. Raynalds bodyguard run fear through the streets
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0896-cavchargeinstreets.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0894-Raynaldpersonallyfights.jpg
Tayma is taken and in true de Chatillon style, Raynald makes the citizens pay in Florins and in blood.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0898-1187taymasacked.jpg
Finally happy in succeeding in taking Tayma which he had tried to do so many years before, Raynald returned to his Coastal County of Aqaba where he was still seeing to the Christian Colonisation of.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0899-1187raynaldreturnstoAqaba.jpg

The Thorn in the Ayyubid's Side
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0814-Balianattacksbilbeis-gatesopen.jpgAfter a short resupply of men and provisions, Balian moves his almighty army to the gates of Bilbeis. His attack is spontaneous and the Kingdom spy, who had infiltrated the city in the previous year, once again managed to open the gates, allowing the Kingdom Troops to walk right in.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0815-1187bilbeismatchup.jpg
Balian orders his troops into the city.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0816-Balianaddresseshismen.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0818-1187kingdommenrushthegates.jpg
As they had successfully done in the Battle for Damyut, Balian de Ibelin attacks with most of the force at the Main East Gate.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0819-fightinginthegatearea-Bilbeis.jpg
While the youthful Eudes de Beaumont has an auxillary force that infiltrates through the South Gate.
Again this took the Ayyubids by surprise and the Kingdom's Armoured Seargent Spearmen easily dispatched the enemy Light Cavalry that was guarding the gateway.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0822-Spearscutdownmisslecav.jpg
Once the enemy Light Cavary were disposed of. Eudes Gallops the Cavalry he has in his charge and crashes them into the rear of the defenders at the East Gate. It becomes a slaughtering pen for the vanquished.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0823-1187bilbeisfight-cavcomingfrom.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0823-1187bilbeisfight-cavcomingf-1.jpg
Not much fight is left in the survivng enemy apart from one determined General Ibrahim Ayyub, who had already suffered the embarrassment of capture previously. The brave Muslim fought to his death. The city was then taken for the glory of Christendom!
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0828-enemygeneralfightingforsurviva.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0834-bilbeisclearvictory.jpg
As what had now become a known virtue of General Balian de Ibelin, the prisoners were released to fight another day if they so chose.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0835-1187bilbeisreleaseprisoners.jpg
'Balian the Honourable' was the name given to him by the Ayyubids.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0837-1187baliantheHonourable.jpg
Bilbeis was taken with few citizen casualties.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0836-1187bilbeisoccupysettlement.jpg

Now with Bilbeis under Balian's control, Qahir, the Ayyubid Capital now lay in the Kingdom of Jerusalem's path. And Balian was not about to rest his men.

The King Returns Home to Jerusalem
Fighting a sudden bout of sickness. King Baldwin is forced to leave the running of Damyut, which he had done ever since last year. He decides to return home and in his place sends Anseu de Tiberias to take control of the new Egyptian Quarter which has again increased the size of the Kingdom considerably.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0839-Balwinsbadhealthmakeshimreturn.jpg

The Surprise of Qahir
Underhandness with the utilisation of spies had really seen about the quick acquisition of Ayyubid lands. This was not about to change. A spy infiltrates and settles in.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0838-AyyubidcapitalQahira-spyincity.jpg
Qahir, the pinnacle of the Ayyubid civilisation, under the rule of the young inexperienced Crown Prince, Al-Zahir, now stood shakingly nervous in the creeping shadows of the Kingdoms might. Balian, electing to over see the running of the new Kingdom County of Bilbeis, sends Eudes de Beaumont with roughly three quarters of the men that had left Damyut earlier in the year to take the capital city. The reasoning for the smaller force was the knowledge of the garrison left protecting the city.
Appointed with such a large duty for his first mission, Eudes knows that success here will mean a very favourable outcome from his King. The siege begins in earnest.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0841-1187eudesattacksqahira.jpg
In what was an unexpected move from the Crown Prince of the Ayyubids, the enemy sallies from their walls with a host of additional soldiers of which our spies had not reported. Damn it! Eudes was certainly to be utterly defeated if he stayed around!
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0845-1187CrownPrinceal-zahirsallies.jpg
Immediately Eudes and his men withdraw to the fields just west of Qahir but not quick enough as the Ayyubids catch the Kingdom men and engage.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0846-1187eudestrappedafterretreatin.jpg
In what is noted as being strange of a Leader of people, Prince Al-Zahir elects to remain at Qahir to watch the battle from the safety of his walls.

The outnumbered Kingdom army awaits its destiny. Eudes orders every man to fight to the last if it is required. His men, who have not fought by his side before mutter curses under their breaths
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0850-eudesarmyawaitsitsdestiny.jpg
Strangely the Ayyubids send in a small unit of archers and and unit of spear militia who are first to engage the Kingdom men. Eudes orders his infantry to remain where they are and orders his cavalry to follow him to exterminate the small threat before the main body of the Ayyubid army reaches them. The attack on the small army is asuccess, totally wiping them out, but unfortunately with a few more friendly casualties than Eudes would have liked.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0848-eudesmeetsthesmallarmy.jpgEudes then retreats back to the safety of his men.
The main Ayyubid attacking force reach the Kingdom defenders, the Ayyubids have astrong missile Cavalry contingent along with a strong infantry presence. Using the advantage of their bows, the Ayyubids stay a distance away, relentlessly peppering Eudes' men with arrows.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0852-shootoutbattlestalls.jpg
Just standing and taking the enemy fire was draining the depths of Eudes men. He had to take action. In a bold move, Eudes orders an attack on the Ayyubids! Every man charges in. Still taking the punishment of the arrows, many men are mowed down before the engagement.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0853-eudesattackscannotwithstndarro.jpg
The battle is bloody. If it were not for the Knights of Jerusalem, Baldwin's personal guard fighting amongst the men, the battle would have been over quickly. But the knights fought with true audacity chopping down many enemy soldiers. Eudes himself, has taken a few nasty blows and is lucky to have still survived as he engages the missle cavalry one by one.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0855-fieldofbattle.jpg
Finding his way to the captain in charge, Eudes kills him, suddenly sending the Ayyubids into full retreat. He had done it! The once grand Ayyubid's now run from the battlefield.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0858-eudes-enemybeginstoflees.jpg
Lucky to be alive himself, Eudes becomes revered by his men.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0861-bloodiedeudessitsatophishorse.jpg
A total respect has been gained from his men for this astonishing victory. The absence of the Crown Prince of the Ayyubids no doubt played a contributing factor towards the enemy's defeat.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0862-heroicvictory.jpg

Onward to Victory
Now that the Ayyubid's main force remains scattered amongst the fields and did not return to the safety of Qahir's walls, Eudes finally orders the attack on Qahir to recommence. An extra unit of Seargent Spearmen were sent down from Bilbeis as extra support The Ayyubids were totally drained any fighting force, nothing could save Crown Prince Al-Zahir now.
The gates were open and Eudes' men rushed through.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0873-qahirabattlelightcavvssspears.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0875-Qahirafightatthegate.jpg
The fighting was brief as the spears and swords of the Kingdom easily overcame the defending force.
Once the streets had been successfully taken, the men of the kingdom formed up into ranks and saluted their General as he passed by allowing him to inspect them. https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0881-Eudesentersthecityandinspectsh.jpg
All that stood in the way on conquest now was the Crown Prince. Remarkedly the Prince did not want to be taken prisoner and fought to his death with honour as his role would expect of him.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0882-Crownprinceal-zahirslaststand.jpg
Qahira was now firmly in the grips of King Baldwin.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0884-qahiraclearvictory.jpg
The news of Qahira's overthrowing reached every far off realm in the land.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0887-1187qahiracaptured.jpg
It seemed now was the beginning of the end for the Ayyubid Sultanate. Only Alexandria now stood in Baldwins way of total domination of Egypt.

Kingdom Court Intrigue and Diplomatic Information
Please look away if you are not interested in the runnings of the Kingdom

New Relations with Far Away Lands
Our diplomats have reached the lands of the Kwarezm Shah,the Malikate of the Sindh and also the Solanski Rajputs. Trade rights were graciously accepted with all realms. However an alliance of trust was gained with the Solanski's. This may prove to be pointless, to begin with, but should either the Solanski's or the Kingdom become major powers in the Levant, to have an ally at this stage would become very beneficial
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0901-1187traderightsKhwarezmshah.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0902-1187malikateofsindhtradrights.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0844-1187Solanski-latinallianceanno.jpg

Prince Guy's Newest Addition
Sybilla Gave birth to yet another child. Another daughter, Melissande.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0867-1187baldwinsseconddaughterborn.jpg

[Bomberboy]

Good AAR.

[Vladimir]

Wow, the AI is bankrupt already?

Nice "inspection" shot. :2thumbsup:

[Galain_Ironhide]

1188 -

Prepare for the Final Push

With Baldwin ill and forced to return to Jerusalem. Prince Anseu de Tiberias arrives into Damyut to take control of the Egyptian Quarter that was once land belonging to the Ayyubids. Along the road that leads to the city, the devastation from the past years conflict still remained, plus the acrid smell of death still hung in the air. Anseu passes many tired and battered units of the Kings Troops as they march back to castles such as Gaza and Tyre to restock, reprovision and be made ready for the next conflict.

This will prove to be a quiet year as many of the previous ones have taken their toll. With the Ayyubids in full retreat, with their tails between their legs, the lull in the fighting could not come at a better time
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0909-AnseutakesoverrunningDamyutguy.jpg

Balian Adopts
Balian de Ibelin is approached by Jobert de Montbeliard, a young noble fresh to the levant only just at the end of last year. Balian has Jobert in action and decides to honour Jobert and adopts him into the de Ibelin Family.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0910-JobertdeMontbeliard-adoptedbyb.jpg

Kingdom Court Intrigue and Diplomatic Information
Please look away if you are not interested in the runnings of the Kingdom
Anseu de Tiberias's New Addition
Among first new citizens of Damyut is the new son of Prince Anseu. Lucky to have not been born in the middle of the desert on the way, Princess Sybil managed to hold on giving birth until they made the gates of the city.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0920-1189AnseuhasasonamaurydeTiberi.jpg
John de Ibelin, son of Balian also becomes a proud father
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0913-1188JohndeIbelinnewsonThibaut.jpg

The Kypchaks Grow in Force
According to our emissaries the Kypchak Hordes are amassing. Our northern Allies, the Georgians are reported to have bolstered their defenses should the Kypchaks become hungry for land and possessions.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0911-1188kychakhordesunite.jpg

New Trading Agreements
Another successful year for our emissaries who have made it to the far reaches of Asia. Trade Rights were agreed to upon with the powerful Ghorid Sultanate and the Sultanate of Ghazni.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0907-1188traderightsghoridsultanate.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0918-1188traderightssulatanateofgha.jpg

Eudes de Beaumont Marries
Not wasting any time from his throne in Jerusalem, Baldwin arranges for the marriage of his newly adopted son to Marie de Moulins. The communion will help financial ties with benefactors back from the Motherland.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0903-1188bridepresentedtoEudes.jpg

The End of a Year and a Beginning of the End
The end of the year has come and Balian de Ibelin has readied his troops to march on to the last Ayyubid City of Alexandria. It has taken all year to amass this army in what he was hoping to be the final dying breath of the Ayyubid Sultanate. The Army Marches west from Bilbeis and reaches Alexandria within days thanks to the ever so slight cooler weather. The seige begins.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0916-1188balianseigesAlexandriaawaa.jpg
Whilst the seige had taken place, Baldwin orders his Heir, Prince Guy to make for the city so when the battle is over he may claim the final Ayyubid province in the name of the Holy Spirit. Jobert de Montbeliard accompanies Guy from Damyut.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0917-Princeguyjoinsbalian.jpg

[Galain_Ironhide]

To all, Thanks again for the praise. Still plenty more to come.

@Barcamartin - Thanks for the idea of putting spoilers over the less important features, I think this might just work.

@Vladimir, Thanks for noticing my 'inspection' shot. I spent about 15 minutes doing that one shot.

@Tincow, Thanks for your help previously from my PM.

@Bomberboy, glad you like it :2thumbsup:

[Galain_Ironhide]

1189 -

Naval Assistance
With Baldwin's orders to finish the Ayyubids once and for all, the small but nimble Kingdom navy blockades and intercepts any boats trying to escape from Alexandria. Our allies, the Armenians have sent a crew as support. The only major skirmish was in fact quite small and the Allies' fleets were able to dispose of the resisting Ayyubid boats easily.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0923-1189navalbattle.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0924-1189navalclearvictory.jpg
Nonetheless it was important for the Navies to experience victory.

In the Name of our Lord, Alexandria Must Fall
The board was set, the pieces finally in their places for the ultimate end to unfold for the Ayyubids. Guarded by Sultan al Kamil Ayyub the enemy awaited their destiny.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0931-1189lastayyubiscityAlsexundera.jpg
Balian de Ibelin leading the assault, positions himself plus the main contingent at the South Gate of the City. He Had Prince Guy position himself at the west wall with the remainder of Balians troops, and finally Jobert de Montbeliard was positioned at the North gate. With no option for escape the Ayyubids knew what was coming.
Taken from the northside - the enemy is surrounded within their city.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0936-Eastandnorthcontingentsattackt.jpg
The three wings of attack hit the walls simultaneously.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0933-southgateforcemovein.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0939-Alexandriafightonwalls.jpg
and it is Jobert de Montbeliard and Prince Guy who are able to infiltrate the wall's defences first.
Balian's South gate army was the only division to encounter stiff opposition and it was not until Jobert and Guy were well into the streets of the city that Balian was able to break through the southern gate defense. Finally the gate broke inwards.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0944-southgatefinallybreaksopen.jpg
The order to charge the gate defense was given, the enemy retreated back to the centre of the city.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0945Ayyubidsdefendmiddleofcity.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0947-alexandrriaknightsmovein.jpg
Surrounded, the Ayyubid Sultan knew this was the end. He will die with honour with his ancestors, however Balian would have been more than happy for him to have complied with surrendering.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0952-surrounded.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0957-fightforthecity.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0960-fightforthecity.jpg
Finally the Sultan was thrown from his horse and a Kingdom Sword finished him off from a single thrust through the side of the neck.
Prince Guy dismounted from his horse, took the flag given to him by his flagbearer and placed it firm in the City centre and muttered the words:
I hearby proclaim this city, in the name of Christendom and in the name of our Divine Lord - Baldwin IV!
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0966-clearvictory.jpg
Alexandria, thanks to Balian de Ibelin was saved from sacking, something of which Prince Guy was not happy about.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0967-1189alexandriaoccupied.jpg
But in a bizarre twist, Prince Guy was named the Duke of Alexandria. Guy would have his way with the people afterall.
THE WAR WAS OVER! In just six and a half years King Baldwin disposed of the Kingdom of Jerusalem's biggest threat. The Ayyubid Sultanate will bother us no more. Now the Kingdom is a power to be reckoned with, however it will be more than probable that the kingdom will encounter many more powerful adversaries in the future to come. One could not help but feel that this was just the beginning.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0968-1189Ayyubidfactiondestroyed.jpg


Kingdom Court Intrigue and Diplomatic Information
Please look away if you are not interested in the runnings of the Kingdom
Damascas - a Financial Oasis
Formerly known as the Emir of Damascus before bowing to Saladin, the newly named Duchy of Damascus was a financial oasis for the King who now owned it. Being in line with the major trade route between the north and south of the Levant, literally all trade passed through this wealthy city. Efficiently run by Duke Hugh de Antioch, the city is in good hands. The only drawback to this is the Muslim sector of the city still not trusting their new rulers from Prince Guy's sacking of the city. This caused a little unhappiness though not enough to worry about.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0970-1189DamascusTradeCentreoftheKO.jpg

The Turkish Sultanate invades Aleppo
Raymond de Tripoli has sent word from Antioch that our independant neighbours of Aleppo are under attack from the Turkish Sultanate. Raymond has asked for funding to amass an army big enough to take Aleppo for himself should the Turks fail in their conquest.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0922-1189turkishSultanateadvanceint.jpg
Luckily for Raymond the first wave of Turks are beaten back by Aleppo's army out in the field.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0971-Turkishsultanatefailureattacko.jpg
Baldwin promptly mandates the requirement for a large army to be gathered at the northern border of Antioch.

Duke Hugh Adopts
Duke Hugh de Antioch, son of Raymond, adopts Amaury of Balias. Amaury shows great potential to be a leader of the faith in the future.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0972-1190amauryofBalias.jpg

Floods
Mountains around Homs experience Torential downpours causing massive widespread flooding, much livestock is killed at the base of the mountain, however no civilians are believed to have perished. Many Muslims still bound to their faith hope and pray that it is Allah bringing tragedy to the infedel christian invaders.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0977-1190Homsflashfloodinswamplands.jpg

[barcamartin]

Glad I could help !! I really like the way this AAR is coming around. The story is great, and the lay-out's nice aswell. KUTGW !! :yes:

[Galain_Ironhide]

1190 -

No Rest for the Best
After only 4 weeks of Kingdom occupation of Alexandria, a messenger arrives at the gates of the city.

The message is for Balian de Ibelin to immediately sail to the city of Tyre with a portion of his most battle hardened regiments and await further instruction once he arrives. Word had filtered through, only days before, about talk of Baldwin's mandate for a Northern Army and many knew that the King would soon be requesting the presence of his most trusted General.

Not a moment too soon either. The disdain between Balian and Prince Guy had intensified greatly. Had they be made to sit in another Court session together, one of the two may not have been alive at the end of it. Balian did not agree on Guy's harsh leadership and lack of vision for his subjects and conversely, Prince Guy could not embrace Balian's wishes for leniency on the local populace. Whilst Prince Guy was the Duke, he knew he did not hold the same respect that Balian did, which made him viciously jealous of his counterpart.

Balian boarded the Royal Navy boats with his men and set for Tyre. The majority of the successful Ayyubid-Latin War veterans have stayed in the Egyptian Quarter as garrison for Alexandria, Qahir and Bilbeis.

He docks some 10 days later. He and his army assemble at the city dock.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0980-1190balianlandsattyre.jpg
Balian's son, John, Duke of Tripoli, meets up with his father. It has been over five and a half years since they last spoke to each other as a consequence of the Ayyubid-Latin War. They share a night of drinking and catching up on old times.

The next morning, the orders come through to march onto the Castle of Aleppo.

Rest in Peace, Tyrant of Kerak
Unexpectantly, Lord Raynald de Chatillon is found dead in his bed chamber. The Chirugeon has pronounced that his heart had given way in the night. His wife, Ermangarde was the first to find him.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0985-1190Raynalddechatillondiesofol.jpg
Raynald finest acheivement was the extension of the Principality of Kerak, aquiring Tayma and Aqaba. He will forever be most remembered though for the atrocities he caused unto the local populaces when he overthrew the former commanding bodies of those towns. May the Lord have mercy on his soul, for Raynald showed none to so many.

Raymond Joins the March
The Northern Army gathers most of its strength from Acre and Tartus, plus Mercenary Geonese Crossbowmen from Antioch. Whilst finalising provisions and men in the large trade border city of Antioch, the old Duke Raymond de Tripoli advised his intensions of joining the march and the conquest of Aleppo. Balian, an old friend of the Duke's is more than happy to have such a skilled soldier by his side, plus an impressive body guard entourage at his command. Now all they had to do was get to Aleppo before the Turks tried again.

Aleppo
The Northern Army finally reaches the outskirts of the Castle of Aleppo and as spies had reported, they encounter the main fighting force of the independant nation led by General Mustafa. With large numbers of missle cavalry present within the lines of the enemy, Raymond has enlisted the services of 3 companies of Mercenary Turkopoles to counter them.

Balian orders his troops to meet the enemy on the field of Battle.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0990-1190fieldbattleinaleppo.jpg
Thanks to the Turkish Sultanates failed attack last year, the army of Aleppo was already weakened.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0991-1190fieldbattleinaleppomatchup.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0993-battle-latinknights.jpg
The enemy army had horse archers on both the left and right flanks stretching almost to the very reaches of the naked eye, plus in the centre was the small contingent of foot infantry with enemy general standing guard. Balian orders the main body of his cavalry to remain behind the infantry. He then orders the Turkopole Mercenaries to the right flank. His intension is to first engage the enemy with these men to draw their attention away from the main attacking body for long enough to create confusion.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0994-battleformation.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0995-theenemylayout.jpg
The turkopoles gallop away to the outside right, Balian then selects along with himself, his Mounted Seargents and Templar Knights to follow behind in close pursuit to also engage the enemies flanking horse archers. The galloping turkopoles immediately start making kills, though they too being in the firing line, start to take a few casualties as well.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0996-turkopolesflanking.jpg
Only having eyes for the menacing, skirmishing turkopoles, the enemy flank was not watching the other approaching Kingdom cavalry. The Aleppo army is suddenly caught up by Balian and his men. Now the fight truly begins. This draws the other far enemy flank in towards Balian.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0999-balianandcavonrightflank.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1001-topview.jpg
Back at the main enbodiement of the Kingdom army, Raymond de Tripoli sees the hole that this has caused in the enemy lines with their other flank racing towards Balian. Raymond orders the rest of the Cavalry to follow him to the left flank and also orders the Kingdom infantry to deviate northwest a little and then charge into the mellee.

Raymond's Knights Hospitallers and Poulin Lancers manage to flank totally around the left side of the army, they charge in. Raymond however is singled out by his banner by the enemy General and they begin to fight toe to toe.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1005-infantrychargingin.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1006-knightshospcharge.jpg
The main body of the enemy army is trapped between Balian's Cavalry and the infantry. They are beginning to fight a losing battle.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1009-anvilclosesin.jpg
The locals fight savagely for their homeland.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1011-inthemiddleofbattle.jpg
Seeing Duke Raymond in trouble against General Mustafa, the dismounted Turkopole Archers break ranks from the rear of the rest of the fighting group and engage the General as well! Armed with spears, the turkopoles surprise Raymond and more so, Mustafa, with their accurate deadliness.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1012raymondandTurkopolearchershaveg.jpg
Ultimately it is a Turkopole spear that kills the Aleppo General.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1015-gendies.jpg
The morale of the enemy is crushed, sending them into full retreat.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1018-enemyflees.jpg
The enemy was utterly annihilated. Balian and Raymond proved to be a good combination of leadership.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1020-clearvictory.jpg
The handful of prisoners were released.

Knowing now that only a small garrison of troops guarded the castle. Balian and Raymond lay seige.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1021-Balianraymondcommenceseigeofal.jpg

Kingdom Court Intrigue and Diplomatic Information
Please look away if you are not interested in the runnings of the Kingdom

Rebecca de Lusignan
Prince Guy's eldest Daughter, Rebecca, comes of age and is enlisted to take up to take up the role of an emissary until a suitable benefactor can be found to take her hand.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0981-RebeccadeLusignancomesofage.jpg

Another Adoption for Duke Hugh
Duke Hugh de Antioch adopts Hugh of Jerusalem, a young almost scrawny looking nobleman, who was born in Jerusalem and studied the arts of the Royal Courts in the capital city. Hugh of Jerusalem is sent to Hama to govern the large township.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0983-1190hughofJerusalem.jpg

Death and a Birth
Raynald de Chatillon, Lord of Kerak, passes away. His wife Ermangarde becomes temporary regent of the Principality of Kerak.
Born to the world is a new son to John de Ibelin, Anseu. Duke John names the child after Prince Anseu de Tiberias, a close personal friend.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0985-1190Raynalddechatillondiesofol.jpg

Death Now Comes in Bigger Packages
The new Seige Works in Jerusalem rolls its first Catapault off the production line. Whilst Artilliary has always been an important aspect of warfare almost everywhere, Baldwin previously thought it unneccessary. However, a few high casualty seiges and battles had finally convinced Baldwin to begin constructing them. Seige Works were also starting to be developped in other places around the Kingdom.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0986-11901stcatapaultoffprodline.jpg

An Important Alliance
With the threat of the expanding Turkish Sultanate now looming over the Levant, the Kingdoms of Armenia and Georgia have agreed to an alliance. This completes an important power bloc in the levant as now the Kingdoms of Jerusalem, Armenia and Georgia are united as one against Turkish aggression.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/0987armenia-georgiaalliance-3waypow.jpg

[Ferret]

congrats on reaching page two! I like the new format much better, perhaps with a zoomed in minimap at the end of each update to show overall progress?

[Galain_Ironhide]

congrats on reaching page two! I like the new format much better, perhaps with a zoomed in minimap at the end of each update to show overall progress?

Thanks. :2thumbsup:

Also a good idea with the minimap, I'll try and implement it within the next few posts.

Stay tuned!

Galain.

[Timsup2nothin]

Excellent work...completely different from my own style, but I find it terrific entertainment.

[Galain_Ironhide]

1191 -

Sally Forth
The seige of Aleppo was faring well. Balian had constructed plans for an attack in the early part of the year, just as the warmer winds were beginning to blow. Part of Balian's plans was to have two forces of equal strength, attack from different corners of the Castles walls, slowly bleeding them dry. Two units of Turkopole archers were ordered to move north of Balian's and Raymond's position, set up camp and await for more reinforcements that were to arrive from Hama.
The commander of the Aleppo forces, Strike Captain Ahmed, spotted the weaker archers move out from the main attacking force from the old Castles wall. Seeing that this could well and truly be his only chance for success, Ahmed orders his troops to sally out from the walls and attack the Turkopoles. If a surprise attack was successful, Ahmed could then sure up a defensive postion on the hillside to thwart the oncoming bulk that was Balians Army. Initially the plan worked, the Turkopoles still holding the ladders, braced themselves for the onslaught. Captain Phillippe of Tartus orders one of his men to run for Balian's camp to bring aid.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1034-1191Alepposally.jpg
A unit of horse archers and three units of heavily armed infantry raced towards the Turkopoles.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1035-Turkopolesawaitattack.jpg
But before the enemy had even come within firing distance, Phillipe's scout had returned with the news that Balian was already on his way.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1036-reinforcements.jpg
As the independant muslim nation's force approached within range, the Turkopoles began to rain death upon them.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1038-Tukopolesfiringonattackers.jpg
Meanwhile, earlier while still at base camp, Balian had noticed movement from the castles South Gate. Still in mid preperation for the seige, something was not right, he hastily orders his men to break camp and march at forced pace towards where he ordered his Turkopoles to set up. Balian, Raymond and the men of the Northern Army rush at a furious pace to get to the intended location. As Balian rides over the crest, he can already see the showers of arrows flying in the distance. He orders the men to begin running and then orders Raymond, the Templars and Hospitallers race ahead and engage.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1039-Balianleadsmenwithsiegeweapons.jpg
The enemy crash hard into the Turkopoles. The kingdom men hold them at bay for time being. But it seems that it may be in vein.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1041-Turkopolesdefendwaitingforrein.jpg
The attack horn of Hospitaller Knights bellows through the air, the rear unit of enemy Heavy infantry pull away from the fight with the Turkopoles and race towards the advancing Knights. The crunch of armor and flesh upon each other is sickening as they smash into one another. It is however the Heavy infantry who are overwhelmed. Ahmed begins to think that staying behind the walls could have been a better idea.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1043-Hospitallercharge.jpg
Taking many casualties but still defiant, the Turkopoles fought tooth and nail as the Kingdom reinforcements finally came into attack range. It was becoming obvious that the Aleppo Army was sunddenly outnumbered and was becoming outclassed. Ahmed, riding amongst his Horse Archers could only take little satisfaction in the knowledge that he had managed killed a good score of Kingdom Cavalry in the process.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1046-Cavfight.jpg
Until finally Strike Captain Ahmed was slain. The enemy was broken and tried in vein to run back to the safety of the castle. They were all cut down whilst running. There was no one left to keep guard.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1048-retreattothecastle.jpg
Aleppo's Sally proved to be disastrous. Had they waited the seiged insidethey may have yet taken a few more Kingdom men with them. With no other forces within the castle, Balain de Ibelin was able to enter straight through the gates and into the city centre without any further squabble.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1049aleppo-themarchin.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1050-clearvictory.jpg
Ahmed had made it all too easy for the Kingdom. Utterly defeated and no fighting spirit left, Aleppo graciously accepted the rule of the Kingdom.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1051-occupy.jpg
All Prisoners were allowed to return to their families.
The Kingdom of Jerusalem now shares borders with the Turkish Sultanate.

Georgian Allies Under Attack
An emissary for our allies, the Georgians, arrives at the gates of Aleppo and advises Duke Raymond de Tripoli that Georgia has been invaded by the Kypchaks at the frontier city of Kutaisi. One could read between the lines that the diplomatic visit was actually to bargain for help, but in logistical terms Kutaisi was too far away to provide support. Raymond regrettably turns the Georgian emissary away.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1031-1191GeorgianalliesattackedbyKy.jpg
Later that year, the Georgians have been defeated at the walls and the city is sacked. Let us pray for the unfortunate who perished.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1056-1191georgiansloseKutaisitokypc.jpg

[Galain_Ironhide]

1192 - The Levant Erupts

Alliance Broken

The Eastern Roman Empire have invaded our fellow allies and neighbours, the Kingdom of Armenia! Whats more they have requested that Baldwin join the fight and wipe Armenia out! Baldwin enraged with the their greed, promptly sends message to the Romans that invading Armenia is as if they have invaded Jerusalem itself. He ends the alliance with the Eastern Roman Empire and whilst military support is currently out of the question, Baldwin sends the Armenian King tributes to help in the fight against their foe. The Romans may have been allies in the past, and even been the determining factor behind the creation of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, however now they have gone too far. No matter what there will be no further alliances with the Romans as long as Baldwin lives.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1059-1192RomansattackArmenians-side.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1060-1192allianceintatters.jpg

Georgia Invaded Again
Georgia has been invaded again, but this time in the south. Their Castle at Mardin, which is east of Edessa has been attacked by the Turkish Sultanate with support from the Abbasid Caliphate.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1331-1192mardinunderturkishseige.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1062-1192Alliesattacked-RomansandTu.jpg
The Georgians send emissiaries to plea to King Baldwin to bring arms against the foes of the Cross.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1329-1192Turksinvademardinwithabbas.jpg

War!
This time, Baldwin complies. The Kingdom was going to war once more. He despatches Balian de Ibelin with the Northern Army.

Instead of marching through Turkish lands to Mardin and risking an ambush, Balian marches his men to the gates of Edessa and lays seige. The Turks were surprised, they did not expect the Kingdom of Jerusalem to come to the aid of the Georgians.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1068-1192Baliansiegesedessa.jpg
The plan worked. The Turks seiging the Georgians at Mardin, pulled out of their seige to double back and relieve Edessa. Now they had a two front war.
Mardin however still had the Abbasids at their doorstep with a massive army gathered on its borders.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1065-Warwithturkishsultanate.jpg

Now That Open War is Upon Us
With the Levant now being tangled in the preludes of an upcoming war, Baldwin immediately sets about increasing the size of the Northern Army. Baldwin enlists the Duke of Tripoli, John de Ibelin, to be in charge of recruiting, training and armouring the new breed ,which will protect the Holy Land and its king.

Kingdom Court Intrigue and Diplomatic Information
Please look away if you are not interested in the runnings of the Kingdom

Mini-map inside
The Status of the Levant
The Levant was beginning to boil over. Powerful nations of two major faiths have emerged and are now trying to sqeeze one another into submission. The Kingdom of Jerusalem was now a healthy economic power, holding key land. Their allies, the Armenians held land to the west and the Georgians, who covered ground from the North to the Northwest of Jerusalem also is a key power in the area. The Eastern Roman Empire, in their Imperialistic ways, are trying to obtain land from the Armenians. Whilst the powerful Turks with the aid from the Abbasids are driving north, attempting to dislodge the Georgians from their lands.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1330-1192zoomedinmap.jpg

A new de Ibelin
John de Ibelin is a father once more.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1061-BirthofRenierdeIbelinsonofJohn.jpg

Storm
A wild storm lashes the coastal villages near Aqaba. A few of the Kingdom civilians sustain injuries, though no deaths. However strange ships are wrecked in the bay belonging to pirates. The mercy of Gods has bought veangance over those who defy him!
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1052-1191aqabastorm.jpg

[Galain_Ironhide]

1193 -

Georgia in Peril
The Kingdom of Georgia are under relentless attack it seems, from all corners. The Kypchak Confederacy have successfully invaded Kutaisi to the far Northwest and now they seige the castle of Tblisi.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1067-1192kypchaksattackgeorgianTbil.jpg
Let us pray they can withstand this attack.

Turkish Raiders
The Turkish Sultanate have been blockading one of our most important Trade routes at the sea port of Jaffa. The Turks have a weak navy only capable of spot raids. Two Kingdom ships move in and promptly dispose of the threat.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1072-1193navalbattleatjaffa.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1073-1193clearvictory.jpg

More Lands to Acquire
Still residing as Regent of the Principality of Kerak, Lady Ermangarde, widow of Raynald de Chattillon, sends forth a request to Prince Guy de Lusignan, to assist in the acquisition of more land . The small Independent Muslim nation Medina, just east of Tayma, is the intended target . Raynald was close to the de Lusignan's for years, which Ermangarde knew she might be able to take advantage of. Prince Guy accepts with the offers of extra income and booty going into his own coffers back at Alexandria. The Prince sets out with a small contingent of men that he managed to gather along the way. With war going on in the north, there was no way that King Baldwin would allow a large army to march in the south.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1075-1193Guystillheadingformedina.jpg

The Seige of Edessa Holds
Balian de Ibelin and Raymond de Tripoli have layed seige to the Turkish Sultanate held city of Edessa for just over 5 months. With enemy reinforcements closing in, Balian knows that the battle for Edessa may well be fought just as much on the outside of the walls, just as it might on the walls. The decision is to hold tight, cutting the city off. News has also reached Balian that the first elements of the Kingdom's new army regiments were nearing the plains of Edessa, led by none other than Duke John, Balians oldest son. They shall come in handy once the fighting commences.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1079-1193Balianstillseigingwithturk.jpg
John De Ibelin crosses the bridge and joins his father a few days later. A great host of men now sit at the gates of the Turks

Abbasids Attack Mardin
With the Turkish Sultanate pulling out of the invasion at Mardin, the Abbasids have moved in and taken over the seige on the Georgian city. The only possibility for survival now was aid from their Allies.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1086-1193Abbasidsattackgeorgiancity.jpg
Upon hearing this, King Baldwin orders Raymond de Tripoli to mobilise from Edessa with a portion of the Northern Army and march through enemy territory to the war stricken city of Mardin to engage the Abbasids. This would be risky manoeveur, for the Turks that had left Mardin in the previous year were yet to be located. Raymond took an alternative route, marching as close west as possible to Harran and then turning north, straight up to Mardin.
After a forced march, Raymond and his army approached the outskirts of the city.
Upon seeing the Kingdom Banners flapping proudly in the breeze off in the distance, the Abbasid captain, knowing that now he was outnumbered, lifts the seige and leads his army to the Northern side of the city.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1086-1193KOJdeclarewaronAbbasids.jpg
Again to the Abbasids dismay, they have been caught by a Georgian reinforcement army has marched south to also bring aid. The Georgians request our presence in battle, Raymond is only happy to comply.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1089-1193georgiansrequestassistance.jpg
Again they retreat and then ony days later the Abbasid Caliphate leave Mardin all together. However, there still remains a large contingent of enemy troops on the border, rumoured to be under the command of Turkish Crown Prince Az-Zahir.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1088-1193abbasidsonborderofMardin.jpg
Victorious without bloodshed, a sense of immortalism washed over some of the newer troops within Raymond's command. Now however, the Kingdom of Jerusalem is at war with two very worthy and powerful opponents, through only trying to protect its allies. Come what may, the years to come will be challenging indeed.

Kingdom Court Intrigue and Diplomatic Information
Please look away if you are not interested in the runnings of the Kingdom


Thankyou, May the Lord Bless You and Your Country
The King of Georgia is most thankful for the aid provided by Raymond de Tripoli. He sends an emissiary to King Baldwin to acknowledge this.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1087-1193georgiahappywiththehelp.jpg

Mercenaries of the Levant
During the journey to the city of Mardin, Raymond pays three companies of Archer Auxillia join his army. Perfect with the bow and deadly with the sword, these men were definately feared whoever they fought.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1080-1193raymondusesArcherauxillia.jpg

Status Report
The lines are drawn in the sand. The Turks have begun to raid Armenian lands too, thus bringing them into the war. Now the three Christian powers of the Levant stand as one against the tyranny that is the Turkish Sultanate and the Abbasid Caliphate.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1082-1193alliesatwar.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1084-KOJArmeniaGeorgiaalliancestats.jpg

Foreign Alliance
Our emissaries report of the Alliance between the Sultanate of Ghazni and the Malikate of Sindh. Being too far away to cause any immediate threat, the alliance of these two countries are of little value to Baldwin at the moment.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1070-Aliancegahnziandsindh.jpg

[barcamartin]

Lovely, looks like there's an awsome conflict up ahead. :viking:

Good luck, and KUTGW !! :beam:

[Galain_Ironhide]

1194 -

Diyarbakir and Harran

https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1094-1194abbasidsclearout.jpg
With Mardin now fully free of enemy troops and the seige of Edessa having a massive influx of Kingdom troops that have joined it, Raymond de Tripoli reprovisions his men, with the aid of the Georgians and marches west to the Turkish castle of Diyarbakir.
Only days earlier, a messenger had broken through to Raymond with the instructions to do so. Balian de Ibelin had a plan that would put intense pressure on the Turkish Sultanate's armed forces. Raymond was to seige Diyarbakir while John de Ibelin marches to Harran and lays seige there. With all this happening, including the already existing seige of Edessa, Balian hopes the Turkish aggression will become submissive and put them on the back foot. Logistically, with Raymond already north in Mardin, this would be the perfect plan.
Raymond reaches the gates of Diyabakir after a week of marching and the seige begins.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1095-1194Raymondthenmovestodiyarbak.jpg

Within days of Raymond reaching his destination, John de Ibelin, eldest son of Balian, reached the gates of Harran.
Armed with Catapaults - the first from the production line, John wastes no time and attacks immediately
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1096-1194JohndeIbelinattacksharran-.jpg
A small garrison is all that protects the small Turkish town, the Kingdom well and truly outnumbers their enemy.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1097-harranbeforebattle.jpg
The catapaults begin to fire their load of death onto the wooden palisades. The Turkish army scurries about to get into position for when the wall imminently falls.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1100-harranfromtheinside.jpg
Finally a large portion of the wall collapses.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1101-harranbreachinwall.jpg
The Kingdom men rush in through the breach. The battle is over almost immediately the small garrison is no match for Duke Johns troops.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1102-Harranattack.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1103-harranclearvictory.jpg
John de Ibelin being cut from the same linen as his father, occupies the town, sparing the citizens their lives for their allegiance to the Kingdom. Christianity will be brought into their lives at a later date.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1104-1194harranoccupied.jpg
Our allies, Georgians are happy to finally have a friendly neighbour in the region.

With Harran now under Kingdom control and Edessa and Diyarbakir under heavy seige, the Turkish eastern front is looking shaky.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1105-1194edessadiyarbakirandharran.jpg
Reports have leaked through to the Royal Court of Jerusalem that the Sultan is furious with the sudden loss of control of his provinces and he vows that the infidels will pay in blood as a consequence. Attack, not defense was obviously the Sultans best virtue.

From Attacker to Defender
The seige of Edessa had gone unhindered by the Turks for over a year. This is until a large host of Turkish reinforcements march around Edessa and attack Balian from the south. Drawing Balian away from the outside of the city and into the dunes, they were trying to use the desert to their advantage.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1109-1194Turkishreinforcementsattac.jpg

Balian forms his men into defensive positions awaits his attackers approach.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1111-Edessacountybattlesetup.jpg
He has two enemy armies heading for him, the reinforcements from the south and the beseiged army that has sallied from the east.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1112-enemyapproaches.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1113-turkcastlegarrisonarrives.jpg
The reinforcement army is first to crash into the kingdom of Jerusalems front line of spears like a wave upon a rock. The fighting is fierce as the Turks fight with determination to dislodge the infedels from their lands.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1116-turk1stwavehits.jpg
With the Turks heavily relying on breaking the Kingdom front line, Balian finds the opportunity to flank his cavalry around the left side of the battle and break out into the middle of the enemy lines. His plan is to create as much havoc for the unprepared enemy as much as possible.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1117-cavheadouttocausehavoc.jpg
His plan works perfectly as the rear of the reinforcement army is torn apart by the knights of the Kingdom.
The Edessa Castle garrison finally reaches the front line of the battle.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1119-midbattle.jpg
Initially they are able to push Balian and his knights back from the flailing Turkish reinforcement troops.
But eventually they too are overwhelmed and the battle suddenly becomes a whitewash. The Castle Garrison find themselves broken and retreating.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1120-cavmopup.jpg
Balian and his cavalry take many prisoners.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1121-cavmopuptwo-note-thefieldsofde.jpg
The battle is soon over, the Kingdom have used the terrain and the conditions to their advantage perfectly. Something of which the Turks thought they would be the masters of.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1122-clearvictory.jpg
After some interrogation, Balian releases his captives.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1123-troopsreleased.jpg
Because Edessa's garrison was all but taken prisoner, this left only just over one hundred Turks in charge of the defense of the city.
Balian rides to the gates of the city and proposes that in exchange for their freedom, the remaining Turkish soldiers must march out with the other captives back to Turkish lands and hand Edessa over to the Kingdom.
The thinly spread garrison, led by a common trooper,who was left in charge after all the ranking officers were killed or captured in the sally attempt, immediatley complied with Balian's offer, handing the city over. Balian and his triumphant army march through the gates and begin the occupation of the Kingdoms newest addition.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1124-1194nodefendersleft-Balianmarc.jpg

Battle of Diyarbakir
News of Edessa falling to the Kingdom raised the spirits of the men sieging the Turkish castle of Diyarbakir. After a short seige of three months, Raymond orders the attack.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1128-1194raymondbattlediyarbakir.jpg
The Kingdom troops rush to the walls, the enemy use fire arrows to repel them.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1131-seigebegins.jpg
The overwhelming size of Raymonds force is too much for the Turkish Sultanate defenders. Holes in their defence have opened everywhere along the walls.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1133-onthewall.jpg
The Italian Crossbowmen manage to break the gate and are amongst the first to taste battle. Even fighting against the enemy cavalry their morale was high enough to break anything.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1134-Italianxbowmercsattacklightcav.jpg
With the Crossbowmen providing an excellent front, Raymond now had plenty of room to enter with the cavalry. The enemy took a beating and retreated back to the castle keep.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1136-diyarbakirbattlecavcchargethru.jpg
The enemy eventually surrenders. The day is won.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1139-clearvictory.jpg
In one year the Kingdom of Jerusalem has all but driven the Turks out of the north of the Levant. The Turks however will not go down without a fight. They will try to take back what they believe is theirs.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1140-1194diyarbakiroccupied.jpg

Pockets Of Resistance
For what was a massive undertaking in deploying three armies to dismantle three Turkish Sultanate strongholds, their still remained a few small pockets of resistance. The Knights of Hospitaller, Outremer and Latin were dispatched to take care of this menace.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1144-1194smallpocketsofturkishresis.jpg
All skirmishes were short and easily taken care of by the men of the Kingdom.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1157-1194smallpocketsofturkishresis.jpg

Independent's Not coming to the Peace Table
Most disappointing chapter of the campaign was the original Diyarbakir Independant Army not agreeing to a peace treaty with the Kingdom. The Diyarbakir Army had been dislodged from the castle during the Turkish Sultanate invasion only just a few years before. The knowledge that infidels would now be running their former glorious castle must have been too much to bear. Balian regroups some of his hardest troops and marches out to intercept them.
The battle begins south of the castle, close to the border.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1161-1194turkrebelsattackedbyBalian.jpg
As soon as the Kingdom men approach, it becomes evident that this army was not expecting us. Hurriedly they attempt to turn about face.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1162-enemycaughtoutofformation.jpg
With the enemy spear men still at the wrong side of the battle, Balian orders the cavalry charge. Hundreds of enemy soldiers are mowed dowed by the charging cavalry.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1164-balianchargesin.jpg
The fight is very one sided to begin. Balian and his bodyguards are in the thick of the action.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1165-strikedown.jpg
A small fightback by the Independant Army as their archers manage to find targets with their arrows. However, by now the Kingdom Infantry have entered into the battle and have tipped the balance.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1166-knightshospitalleractionshot.jpg
Until ultimately the Independant army is wiped out. Most are taken prisoner from the panic of fleeing.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1170-clearvictory.jpg
The 719 prisoners are marched to Edessa where many are given the choice by Balian de Ibelin to bare arms under the banner of the Kingdom. Many take the offer up, however their role would turn out to be minimal as they are dispatched around the Kingdom to help fill town militia's.

Kingdom Court Intrigue and Diplomatic Information
Please look away if you are not interested in the runnings of the Kingdom
Prince Guy Reaches Medina
Prince Guy finally reaches the far eastern city of Medina. The Independent nation of Medina is ready for Guy, they sit and await their destiny. Slighty annoyed with himself for taking up this 'crusade' in the name of Kerak, the Prince looks for the best strategy to have this battle over and done with as quick as possible, so he may return home. The enemy however have done their homework with their fortification, this was not going to be over so quick afterall. The decision is to starve them out for a while.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1126-1194GUysiegesmedina.jpg

Naval Skirmishes
The Turkish Sultanate continue to peck away at the Kingdoms trade routes, raiding with single boats around the coastal area.
The Kingdom navy manage to dispose of many of the threats easily though.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1106-1194kojturkishnavalskirmish.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1107-1194navalclearvictory.jpg

Boniface de Ibelin
Boniface de Ibelin, son of Duke John, turns sixteen and is now of legal age. Growing up in the last couple of years under the wing of King Baldwin in the Royal court of Jerusalem, the young noble has had some gifted tutoring and shows much promise.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1092-1194bonifacedeIbelinsonofJohn.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1093-1194bonifacedeibelin.jpg

[Ferret]

I could have sworn that year said 1914 :clown:

keep up the good work :yes:

[Galain_Ironhide]

1195 -

The Ceasefire

An Abbasid emissary arrives at the gates of the recently captured Turkish Castle of Diyarbakir and asks for the counsel of Raymond de Tripoli. The emissary brings an offer of a ceasefire between the Kingdom and the Abbasid Caliphate.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1172-1195abbasidsofferpeace-raymond.jpg
Thinking that the Abbasids had realised they made an error in invading Mardin thus bringing the Kingdom of Jerusalem into war against them. Raymond agrees to the ceasefire under the condition that the Abbasids never sets foot into Mardin or any other of the three Christian Allies provinces again. The treaty is signed and the Abbasid Emissary returns to Mosul. Raymond relished that he and Balian could now concentrate on the war against the Turks
The Betrayal
Peace only lasts a matter of months however as the Abbasid Army, under the command of Crown-Prince Az-Zahir, once again invades Mardin thus breaking the ceasefire. It has become apparent that the ceasefire between the Kingdom of Jerusalem and the Abbasids only served as a diversion to allow enough time for the Abbasid Crown Prince to amass a big enough invasion force.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1173-1195agreementbrokenstraightawa.jpg
Upon the request for help from the Georgian General, Papuna Amilakhvari, Balian de Ibelin mobilises the main contingent of the Northern Army and marches east at forced pace to Mardin to relieve the Georgian defenders.

The battle of Mardin
Just barely 10 miles south from the walls of Mardin, Balian encounters the Abbasid Crown Prince and his army who have moved to the plains for the ensuing battle. According to advance scouts, Georgian commander Papuna Amilakhvari has sallied his troops from the safety of the city's walls to reinforce the Balian and theKingdom troops.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1178-Balianmarcheswesttoencounterab.jpg
Thanks to reliable intelligence from his spies, Balian is able to discover exactly the composition of the Abbasid threat.
The main enemy force led by Crown Prince Az-Zahir
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1184-mardinenemyforcedetail1.jpg
Abbasid reinforcements with large contingent of artillery
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1183-mardinenemyforcedetail2.jpg

Balian takes up position on a small rise on the open area.
Immediatley bad news arrives, through a forward scout that Balian sent forth to the city. General Papuna has been delayed! Balian curses under his breath. Have the Georgians deliberately timed their arrival late so that the Kingdom of Jerusalem will bleed the Abbasids out? Then once they arrive, take the victory away from Balian? It was not at all impossible and not ever unheard of. Papuna Amilakhvari was a wiley old General who knew how to get the best result for his own gain. By inadvertently arriving late he could ensure that his troops were the ones to ultimately finish of the Abbasid threat and take victory. Balian was not about to let that happen either.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1187-reportcomesbackthatgeorgiansde.jpg
Balian turns his attention back to the battle at hand and how he will despatch the Abbasid threat without expending too many of his own troops.
Balian orders his Mounted Turkpole archers over to the far left flank and sends them forward to engage as the Crown Prince’s first wave of troops approach. The Abbasid Reinforcements carry most of the Artillery and are not too far behind.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1186battlebeginswherearegeorgians.jpg

The Turkopoles position themselves upon a small crest and are met by Ghulam Cavalry, they are first to taste action.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1189-Turkopolesflank.jpg
Balian then orders his mounted Seargents forward to the right flank. The Mounted Seargents manage to outflank the rear of the first advancing lines of enemy infantry from the right, they then initiate a charge from the rear, at first they are successful in causing casualties, however are then very quickly beaten back. They retreat back to Balian’s lines
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1190-mtdseargentsflankwestside.jpg
Soon all out fighting begins as both the Kingdom infantry and the Abbasid first wave infantry engage in battle.
A scout arrives from over the crest from behind Balian’s position and advises the Kingdom General that the Georgians have finally arrived. Still bemused at their tardiness, Balian then jokes to himself that they may have already missed the fun.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1192-finallygeorgiansbegintoarrive-.jpg
The battle spreads across the plains and Balian along with his bodyguard is forced to join the fighting against the Abbasid first wave, his men are starting to take casualties when suddenly the enemy artillery fires upon the Kingdom troops. In the distance beyond the first wave of the enemy, the second wave reinforcement approach. The Georgians, now in full view, race to the aid of the Kingdom.
Meanwhile, the battle at its most fiercest, is beginning to turn Balian de Ibelin’s way. Bedouin Camel Cavalry, widely regarded as the scourge of Western Knights are no match for the bravery of Balians men. They soon find themselves retreating.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1194-KOJtoogoodforcamels.jpg
Fighting amongst the infantry is bloody. Soon the spirit of Crown Prince Az-Zahirs men begins to break and many start to flee.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1197-abbasidsbegintobreak.jpg
In order to save face and rekindle his men’s morale, the Crown Prince rides into the fray, he and his Bodyguard ferociously hack down many of the Kingdom men standing in their way.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1198-Heavycavtrytotipbalance.jpg
Until ultimately sheer numbers alone undo the mighty Crown-Prince as he is felled from his horse and killed.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1200-Abbasidgendies.jpg
The Abbasid first wave crumbles and the Kingdom men form up for the second wave. In the near distance, the Georgians are still arriving. Balian orders his surviving cavalry back around to the far left flank once more to out manoeuvre the slow limbering enemy artillery. Again they are met by enemy Ghulam Cavalry. Outnumbered though, the Ghulams are easily beaten back.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1203-cavmovesouthtoflanktreb2ndwave.jpg
Now with no protection, the Kingdom Knights charge the enemy artillery units. They are easily wiped out.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1204-cavchargetrebs.jpg
The Georgian infantry are finally close enough to mount a charge on the Abbasid reinforcements.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1207-GeorgianCharge.jpg
The Kingdom line holds strong when suddenly the Abbasid Ghulam Captain of the Reinforcement troops breaks through with with his cavalry and makes a charge for the Kingdom Dismounted Turkopole Archers. Dropping their bows, they don their spears and the unexpecting Ghulam crash into them.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1208-Turkopolearchersattackedbyg-1.jpg
Balian watches in astonishment as the Turkopoles easily fend off the enemy cavalry sending most of them to their deaths. The Abbasid Captain is also killed in the melee.
Now that Crown-Prince Az-Zahir, and also the captain of the reinforcement army lay dead, the remainder of the demoralised Abbasid Army flee in full retreat.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1211-Abbasidsfullretreat.jpg
Balian de Ibelin had not only defeated the Abbasid Caliphate Army, he had totally annihilated them, with only taking 186 casualties combined with 40 Georgian casualties as opposed to the Abbasids who lost over 2100 men. 600 of which were taken prisoner.

The prisoners were later released.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1217-1195captivesreleased.jpg

The Accolades of Balian de Ibelin
After the crushing victory at Mardin, the men under the control of Balian de Ibelin soon label him as Balian the Champion. The name of which he has become labelled with spreads across the Middle East. Balian de Ibelin is now a most respected ally and enemy, to all that know of him.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1219-1195BaliantheChampion.jpg

Medina

After what seemed to be months of marching and then planning, Prince Guy de Lusignan finally makes ready to assault the large town of Medina.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1220-GuyattacksMedina.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1221-laddersready.jpg
Although largely outnumbered by the Kingdom Troops, the Arab occupants were definitely ready for whatever Guy had in stall for them. The Latin Prince gives the command and the Kingdom Archers open fire upon the walls.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1225-archersfire.jpg
Rams are bought to the gates and ladders hit the sides of the walls.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1226-Atthegate.jpg
The Kingdom troops climb the ladders and quickly overwhelm the defenders on the walls.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1229-medinafightingonthewall.jpg
It is not long before the rams break the gates open and Prince Guy orders the rest of his army inside. Fighting breaks out into the streets, but the enemy are no match and they retreat back to the town Square.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1234-Guyfightsremainingbeduoincamel.jpg
Until ultimately the rebel Arabs are defeated.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1236-clearvictory.jpg
Just as Prince Guy had hoped, the actual fighting in Medina was very short. He claimed the Township in the name of Jerusalem and sent riders back to Kerak to inform, Lady Ermangarde that Medina now belonged under jusidiction of Kerak. All prisoners and associated offenders to the Cross were excecuted as a warning to the rest of the township. Fear of Guy bought peace to these lands this day.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1237-1195medinaunderkingdomrule.jpg
Prince Guy then elects to remain in Medina for the next 3 months to see to its economic recovery, until a messenger arrives and advises that the Turks have begun a seige against King Baldwin at Edessa. Prince Guy heads for the north immediately to offer support and leadership, should his King be vanquished.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1242-PrinceGuyHeadsnorthtojoininbat.jpg

King Baldwin Beseiged at Edessa

With Edessa, Diyarbakir and Harran now under Baldwins rule and in relatively short time, Baldwin has moved his Royal Court to Edessa for the mean time to oversee the rebuilding of these provinces. With the bulk of the Northern Army with Balian de Ibelin at the Georgian province of Mardin, Edessa's defenses are underguarded. Obviously with intelligence back from his spies, the Turkish Sultan orders the immediate counterattack of Edessa.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1238-1195turkishcounterattackonedes.jpg
The King immediately sends word to his most trusted General for aid. Although the job of expelling the Abbasids from Mardin is not yet complete, Balian immediately rushes back to Edessa with the Northern Army.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1241-1195BalianmarchesbacktoEdessa.jpg
But Balian is too late and Turks mount their assault against the walls of Edessa. Outnumbered, but highly moraled due to the presence of their King, the kingdom troops await their destiny.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1247-1195TurksattackEdessa.jpg
Guarded by mainly Seargent Spearmen and Italian Mercenary Crossbowmen, plus just over fifty of Baldwins Knights of Jerusalem, King Baldwin IV sets his men along the walls to await the barrage.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1250-Edessabattle-thelayout.jpg
The battle takes a good turn to begin, as the first enemy ram that approached the gate erupts into fire. Archers in the tower signal that another ram is being pushed towards the gates though. The Seige tower and the ladders still make their way to the walls almost unhindered.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1251-seigebegins-1stbatteringramtor.jpg
The second ram is bought into position as they attempt to bust the gate open.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1253-Laddersandtoweratwall.jpg
The hour is zero and the enemy rush the walls. The Kingdom defenders fight with fierce audacity to keep the attackers at bay.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1254-thefightonthewalls.jpg
The Turks are beginning to win the fighting on the walls.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1257-menpileintoseigetower.jpg
Taking a gamble, Baldwin seizes an opportunity to sally from the gates and pushes outward and into the oncoming Turks in front of the walls. The Kings personal Guards, the Knights of Jerusalem join him in the fight outside the walls. Not anticipating this move from the Latin King, this catches the enemy off guard at first.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1259-Doorsopen-Baldwinsalliesout.jpg
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1261-sallyforth.jpg
More Kingdom men including Crossbowmen, join the fight outside the gates. Baldwin pushes his Bodyguard unit through the fray of hacking Turks and manages to clear himself from the conflict. He intends to then mount a charge at their rear.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1262-Baldwinandmenbreakthrough.jpg
Baldwin orders his men to charge back into the Turkish infantry who are still confused between fighting at ground level and trying to climb the walls to safety. The first charge kills and routs many enemy troops, quite possibly turning the ebb of the conflict.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1263-thenchargebackintotheattackers.jpg
Baldwin then breaks off and initiates another charge back into the rear of the unsuspecting enemy.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1265-thenagainintotherearofthetower.jpg
The second charge kils the enemy captain, sending the Turks into a full rout. Baldwin and his Bodyguard tend to capturing as many prisoners as they possibly can.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1266-enemyrouts.jpg
After a long bloody battle, the death toll is high. But King Baldwin has shown his courage and bold leadership in defending against a much stronger foe and ensuring the survival of his subjects.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1268-destructionfromoutthegate.jpg
It is truly a most heroic victory and as a result Baldwin will forever be known as the true Guardian of his people.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1269-HeroicVictoryforBaldwin.jpg
Not given to just letting his captured foes go free, Baldwin offers the prisoners back to the Turkish Sultan for a ransom. Amazingly the Sultan agrees and pays for his mens freedom. Perhaps the Turkish Sultanate was not so vile and disregarding to life after all.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1271-1195Ransomaccepted.jpg
King Baldwin orders his men back inside the city's gates. He then prepares them for the next assault should it come quickly.

Kingdom Court Intrigue and Diplomatic Information
Please look away if you are not interested in the runnings of the Kingdom

Turks Invade Vahka
As well as beseiging Edessa, the Turkish Sultanate sends an army to the Armenian Citadel of Vahka. Whilst our spies keep a close eye on the conflict, the resources of the Kingdom of Jerusalem are too far stretched to offer any support to the Armenian Allies.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1239-turksalsoattackamenianalliesat.jpg

Bohemund the Handsome
Prince Guy de Lusignan's eldest son, Bohemund, has come of age and is ready to fight for good of his Faith and his King. With striking looks that could kure any fair maiden to the bedchamber, Bohemund de Lusignan is commonly known by his followers as ‘Bohemund the Handsome’.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1175-1195bohemundstats.jpg

Kingdom of Georgia Sends its Gratitude
After the battle of Mardin is won by Balian de Ibelin. The King of Georgia sends his most deepest thanks to Baldwin.
https://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg164/Galain_Ironhide/1218-relationsperfect-georgia.jpg

[Shahed]

Got here through your sig. Great work!

[Chaotix]

I just read the whole AAR from the beginning, and it's great! You have a knack for storytelling, Galain. One question, though: how did Baldwin become "Malevolent"?? :thinking:

[Galain_Ironhide]

Got here through your sig. Great work!

Thanks Sinan, most appreciated! :2thumbsup:



I just read the whole AAR from the beginning, and it's great! You have a knack for storytelling, Galain. One question, though: how did Baldwin become "Malevolent"??

Thanks Chaotix27 - Damn Game mechanics! He mostly stayed in Jerusalem governing, you get bad traits for doing things like sticking around in one place like that for too long. Aside from that I had done my utmost in making sure he was chivalrous.

I've fallen off the tracks a little with this AAR lately but I do intend to return with more. Stay Tuned!
And again thanks for reading.

- Galain

[oz_wwjd]

I just finished reading this from the beginning and nice job so far,although I would like to see more battle accounts if you could fit them in.

[anweRU]

Excellent. I had downloaded BC but not played it yet. I'll have to start a campaign ASAP!