The Sands of Time - MoT diplomacy thread

[phonicsmonkey]

The Fatimid Caliph's courtroom at Constantinople is where he receives the diplomats and emissaries of the Kings of Europe and the Sultans of the East.

It is evident that the seat of Caliphial authority is but recently established here at the Blacharnae Palace - embroidered Afghani and Turkish rugs line the stone floors but their patterns are not in harmony and their edges are not quite straight, as if they had been laid in a hurry. Elaborately calligraphed hadiths have been hastily stuck over Greek orthodox iconography, there are marks in the stone floors and alcoves which bely the recent presence of statues carted away to storage and no-one among the newly-installed palace staff seems to know where anything is.

It is into this atmosphere of mild chaos and upheaval that the world's ambassadors arrive and are shown to their seats at Court.

[Myth]

The Sicillian diplomat is a man of middle age, with greying sideburns and dressed in a rich grab, with the Sicillian Crown's coat of arms ebroidered on his dublet and a cape in grey and white. He has bejewled golden rings on six of his ten fingers and a heavy golden chain hangs about his neck, unmoving as he walks. His eyes are narrow and piercing, making him look like a blue-eyed hawk.

"It seems your Caliph has made great use of the jewel of the East. I wonder how long it will take the Romans to remember the days of glory past and try to reclaim their capital city. Perhaps a day, or a week, or until there are only you and them left in Anatolia?"

The diplomat smirks as he sits down.

[deguerra]

The Norse diplomat looks nothing like a viking. Dark brown hair frame a somewhat pudgy face with a short pointed beard. He wears the latest Flemish fashions with a lacy collar and puffy sleeves. He shuffles a number of papers and stands up.

My master would have the following be known:

The Kingdom of Norway and Sweden does not seek to be at war with any nation, and will dispatch diplomats to that effect at our earliest convenience.

The Kingdom of Norway and Sweden has undertaken to respect peace and stability and will, to that end, remove from foreign soil all troops that it currently stations there. To this end, the Kingdom of Norway and Sweden asks the owner of the province of Rum in Anatolia, he checks his papers which I believe to be the Khwarezm Shah, for passage of its armies through his lands in order to sail homewards.

The Kingdom of Norway and Sweden hereby formally declares its interest in Finland and the island of Gotland. It is, however, willing to renege on the latter claim as a sign of friendship to the Kingdom of Denmark.

Finally, the Kingdom of Norway and Sweden wishes to reiterate its sovereignty over East Flanders and Friesland. Any attempt to subvert that sovereignty will be met by the full force of the Norse armies.

[slysnake]

The Swabian looks up from a daze in his seat, frowning at the Nord's statement.

"Whilst the Republic of Swabia itself cannot claim to be an entirely peaceful nation itself, especially with our current war in the Holy Roman Empire, your claim over the region of Flanders, Gotland, AND Finland is, may, in itself, be seen as an act of aggression towards countries of whom also desire the same regions your King speaks of. Maybe you should take a leaf out of the book of the Republic of Swabia - my sire and the Roman Emperor are to exchange lands in Greece and the Balkans come next season, proving a new step towards greater economic strength and stability in that region, as well as starting a new page to the Republic's somewhat troubled history with the Romans in the East. Might I suggest that, instead of reasserting your own power over these regions, why not simply sell Flanders to France or Denmark in exchange for money or another region, and, regarding the rebel regions of Gotland and Finland, why not simply share the spoils of war with Denmark? If you wish to be seen as a friendly figure in your region, cooperating with your potential enemies and their own desires might be a more tempting idea for your King to consider on this fine day..."

[RexLegend]

The Danish diplomat rises and starts to speak.

Oh finally, letter from Kingdom of Denmark arrived to me. Long time my king had to think about future of Scandinavia, now time of thinking is over.
Path of road was clear with declaration of war against remains of Holy Roman Empire.
But path wasn't clear about future of entire Scandinavia. It's clear now, so listen! Especially you, Norske bror! War has been declared on King of Norway!
Kingdom of Denmark is calling for unification of entire Scandinavia to secure it's position in Northern Europe. Rest is up to nordic Gods now...
Why war is declared? Because dream of uniting Nordic lands is stronger than ever before. Wars have been fought for this goal before our time and will be fought after our time.
Anyone, who takes lands which are geographically part of Scandinavia or lands that are under control of our banner, will be punished with full firepower.

Thank you for listening. That's it for now.
Skål!

[Myth]

The Sicilian diplomat raises his eyebrows and comments with a bland voice. "Norse Gods? We thought you men of Christ, who had abandoned the reaving days of old. It seems we have been mistaken. His Holiness the Pope shall scarcely like this!"

[phonicsmonkey]

A fanfare sounds and the great doors of the Blachernae Courtroom swing open to admit a procession of gaily-dressed Nubian ghulams bearing ostrich feathers which they wave in the air as they march to a slow drumbeat.

Following the ghulams is a thin, North African arabian man with an impressive thick, black beard. He is garbed in flowing white robes which are embroidered at the collar, cuffs and hem with intricate patterns in rich gold thread. Atop his head is an Indian-style turban beset with an enormous emerald in the shape of a crescent. His fingers are beset with glittering rings of gold and silver encrusted with gemstones of every hue. At his side, in a holster attached to his embossed leather belt, is a tiny and ornate Q'uran.

His name is Ibn-Battutah and he has become quite the celebrity due to his extensive travels around the Islamic world. His travel has taken him from his homelands in Moorish Iberia, through the lands of the faithful on hajj and to the court of the Delhi Sultan. Rumour has it he has visited even the Mongol Khan in his court at Qara Qorum. There is no greater authority on the world at large and specifically the habits and customs of the faithful. Here at Constantinople he is serving as qadi and vizier to the Khalifa and is empowered to speak for him on matters of diplomacy.

The procession having come to a halt, he mounts the dais and seats himself languidly in the throne of the Byzantine Emperors. In a thin, wheedling voice he begins to speak to the assembled dignitaries.

Lords, diplomats and emissaries of the world, ahlan wa sahlan, I welcome you to the court of al-Khalifa Habushan the Just, Prince of the Two Seas, Commander of the Faithful, Guardian of the Holy Places and Arbiter of Conflicts, Allah bless his house and preserve all those who meet in it, let his enemies be smitten by the terrible sword of vengeance.

It greatly pleases the Khalifa to be able to reveal to you certain aspects of the Caliphate's diplomatic and military position.

Firstly, let it be known that our longstanding allies and friends the Moors will continue to receive our full support in all their endeavours.

Secondly, we hereby announce an alliance with our former enemies the Khwarezm Shahdom. Long may the union of all Islam bring light and joy upon the peoples of the ummah.

Thirdly, we are much heartened by the reasonable attitude of the Italian States. Specifically our newfound allies the Normans of Sicily who place reason and truth ahead of petty differences and have agreed to support us in our war against the so-called Roman Emperor. Also the Venetians and the Genovese who have agreed to bring to an end our years of war and commence trade with our richly-stocked ports once more. Inshallah these ties will bind us together in harmony for years to come.

Fourthly, on a less pleasant note, we confirm the continuation of our righteous jihad against the barbarians of Rum, the former occupants of this very palace. We had hoped that their Basileos might see reason and indeed we had seemed to strike a deal with him which would lead to peace and an alliance, but unfortunately his unreasonable demands and lack of respect for our territorial claims led us to quarrel and he chose the mountainous path of war instead of the fertile valleys of peace, advancing on Adana with two armies intent to seize the castle for his own. Needless to say this attack was repelled.

He now lies dead in Adrianople alongside two of his family. Another of his generals fought in vain to save Nicaea and in the field the armies of Islam have scattered his forces to the four winds.

Should the new Basileos find that pragmatism and piety overcome bloodlust, we are open to negotiations to bring our war to an end, but until such a time let he and all who succour him fear our righteous anger!

Finally, al-Khalifa would like to let it be known that he seeks no quarrel with any man and is open to negotiation on any issues which Kings, Khans or Sultans might bring to his attention. He is willing to end all open conflicts on agreable terms and resume trade with any kingdom which desires to lay down the blade for the plow.

My guests, avail yourselves of all the hospitality this great city and palace has to offer, you are the guests of the most magnificent ruler of the world.

As salamu alaykum!

[Nigel]

The doors to the hall open and the heads of the delegates turn as the arrival of the Vassili Alexandrovic, the Lithuanian ambassador is announced. With a proud, but slightly limping step, the tall man enters the room. He is clad in a richly adorned fur coat, his white beard is neatly trimmed and silver or golden rings are gleaming on four of his seven fingers.

Slightly embarrassed at arriving several days late, he nevertheless addresses the assembly with polite greetings and then takes his seat at the table. While he is trying to push aside the impressive images of the City of Constantinople his mind finds comfort in the memories of his own long and eventful life.

His career did in fact start out to make him a great warrior. As a young man he had learned to ride a horse and to handle the sword and the bow. But after several victorious, his luck had turned and he had almost lost his life in a fateful attack which instead left his sword hand crippled and he realized he would never ride a war horse in battle again.

So his fate had changed and he had joined a merchant on his travels in the West. Now, a man in advanced years, he had studied the alphabet and the numbers, learned to read and to write, and picked up Latin sufficiently to converse in the international community. And it was this skill of language, which had led the Grand Duke to appoint him as ambassador.

Much had changed in the steppe since his young days. The tribes had grown into states and nations and the feuds had grown into wars. Of the old enemies of Lithuania now only the people of Novgorod and the Rus remained. But these were stronger than ever and had recently formed an alliance. “Go to Constantinople and listen to the talks”, the Grand Duke had told him. “I don’t know if talks will be any help, but they cannot harm. And perhaps we will find new friends if we are in need.”

[Mithridate]

A slender man in his late forties rises from the back rows, his thick robe somewhat out of place in the great hall of the Fatmids. With a stern gaze at the Caliph he announces with a deep voice:

"I speak for the Kievan Rus, we request the Caliph to return Constantinople to Byzantine rule or at least allow free passage for the Varangian Guard and their families to pass freely to Kievan lands. Our ancestors and many of our brethren have fought under their banners, we ask that their legacy is not unmade."

Taking a few steps from his seat to the more open walkway, he faces the concentration of Christians:
"I advice you to pay heed to the developments of the East. Thread carefully or their union will be the end of you, and the teachings of Christ."

Turning, his gaze shifted from the imposing caliph over to the Sicilian diplomat:
"Is this true? Have you forsaken the faith for coin, united with these men against the Basileos? Have your king forgotten his roots, his responsibilities?"

Bowing to the Caliph, he looks to the danish diplomat:
"It is good that some at least remember the honorable ways of old" He mutters.

As the man moves sit down he waves his hand to his servant, sending the requests for various audiences thinking "So it has begun"

[ArcturUs]

The Byzantine diplomat raises from his seat and starts to speak

Greetings to all those present here. As you have already known, the Egyptians are currently holding Constantinople, the Jewel of the East. We tried to settle the matters of war through negotiations, but their demands were simply too much. Now, we have no choice, but to take it back by force. Constantinople will be taken back soon. And so will be Nicaea and Adrianople. The Egyptians will feel the very might of the Ancient Rome upon them.

[phonicsmonkey]

Ibn-Battutah laughs scornfully at the Greek and waves his hand dismissively.

Negotiation? Your so-called Emperor barely grasps the meaning of the word. For barely was the ink dry on a peace deal and alliance with al-Khalifa than he demanded possession of this great city! And in exchange for what? For territory which belonged to others and which the Basileos was in no position to grant!

It is to Caliph Habushan's great credit and a testament to his patience and reason that he politely responded to inform your upstart King that he valued Constantinople somewhat higher than that and gave an example of the price he would be willing to accept for it. He gave no ultimatum and invited the Basileos to form a counter-offer, but instead the Greek tyrant willingly chose the path of war.

I recount all this not for the benefit of the late Basileos, for we have seen that he is unreasonable and now we are allied with the Normans of Sicily, with the Moorish Sultan and with the Shah, all of whom are now ranged against him, we see no reason to be accomodating. The Emperor had his chance and threw it away.

Truly he reminds me of the Sultan of Malaya who in his pigheadedness was unable to come to terms with the local infidels and was finally defeated and dragged from his citadel at the back of an ass, his concubines and their children wailing behind him.

Nay, I explain this in detail for the other rulers of the world who bear witness, so that they may not gain a false impression of al-Khalifa as warlike and unreasonable. In fact great Habushan (peace be upon him) welcomes genuine negotiation and will always come to the parley table before resorting to the blade.

This I say in the sight of mighty Allah and his prophet, blessed be his name and may he dwell forever in paradise amid the angels.

He then turns to the Russian.

Good sir, as you can see there is little chance of this great jewel of the Bosphorus ever being returned to the grasping claws of the so-called Romans. However, we are greatly inclined towards peace with your mighty Tsar and we urge him not to side with the tyrant in this matter.

As to the Varangians, they are free to come and go as they please. We seek not to oppress any people, regardless of creed or religion.

[Myth]

The Sicillian grins, displaying a golden canine tooth, as he stands up and strolls leisurely towards the map of the known world.

"The Roman Basileos is not solely to blame, as even after his death the schemers and lunatics that hide and inbreed in Greece still continue the collective suicide of the former Roman empire. They have less of the blood of old Roma in their veins than us, and less of a claim to such a bold title than either nation on Europe. However their ludicrous siege of Naples and their scheming against the good Fatamid Caliph, who has thus far displayed more noble intent than certain Christian rulers we have dealt with, secured their fate and aided ours trough indirect means.

To the Russian Tzar we offer to instead turn his gaze inward and to secure his lands, instead of raising his starved armies to defend those who wish to commit suicide, least the dead drag them in the grave with them."

[Mithridate]

Anger clearly written in his face, the man of Kiev stands facing the Sicilian:
"We men of Kiev have always known battle, make no mistake when I say we are prepared! You should know not to underestimate us,
our ruler may be young but he has the council of both Huginn and Muninn, His very arm guided by Thor himself!"

Calming himself, he turns to the Caliph:
"We are pleased that you have decided to allow the Varangians free passage to our lands,
they will be welcomed home with open arms, roaring fires and with drink and song! "

"Know that we may frown upon your war with the Basileos, but our warriors shall not be the ones to pay the price of their folly as we have before."

Once again bowing slightly, he sits down and studies the Caliph with both interest, and perhaps a hint of fear.

[Nightbringer]

A tall, thin man wearing flowing silk robes of cream colors enters the room. He bears in his hand a ripe orange, and a servant follows close behind with a large basket of them which he places on the table.

Greetings my fellow diplomats, I am Fārūq Zulficar, and I come on behalf of the Moorish Sultan
While it is certainly a pleasure to be among you all, I come bearing grave news from the Sultan.

Fārūq unrolls a scroll of parchment, spreads it out of the table in front of him, and begins to read while idly peeling the orange with his hands.

The French have made numerous veiled threats and nefarious attempts to bring nations to war against the Moors. All while oppressing the people of the Republic of Genoa, friends of the Moors. We can no longer stand for this, and have moved to help the Genoese in their struggle. Moorish forces march on France; Marseilles has already been captured, and will soon be handed over to its rightful owners the Genoese!

Well, as you heard, my people are now fighting those of France, I am curious to see what the reactions of your rulers shall be.

Fārūq leans back in his chair and casually places a slice of orange into his mouth, looking around amiably at his fellows, and gesturing for them to help themselves to an orange of their own.

[Ignoramus]

The emissary of the Genoese stands up.

We hope that the King of France now sees the folly of attacking our Republic, which has done nothing to justify the the war against our lands and property.

[RexLegend]

Diplomat of Denmark jumps up, upon recieving royal letter from Scandinavia. Then he turns to court...
Heir of Norway is slain, killed during the Siege of Antwerp! Poor prince... brave he was, bravely he fought. Should his soul find the way to Valhalla.
Norway has now 2 cities left and this war should end soon, bringing peace and prosperity to entire Scandinavia. And which is most important, our people will be united.

Turning to Moorish diplomat
Your actions shall be punished by armies of Christendom. Genoese don’t count as christians, after swearing allegiance to muslim infidels. That’s all King Bjorn has to say.

Diplomat takes seat, eyes looking towards diplomat of Norway, slight grin and sadness on face at once.

[phonicsmonkey]

Ibn-Battutah is still at Constantinople representing the Caliph, despite the Fatimids' ejection from the city at the hands of the re-conquering Romans. He eyes the great throne with the look of someone who imagines he will be sitting in it again soon enough...

Ahem.

Great Caliph Habushan, who will presently return to reclaim this city by the grace of Allah, his name be praised forever, wishes it to be known that he has signed a pact of mutual non-aggression with the noble Kievan Rus. The pact has a span of ten years and in this time the two great empires will respect one anothers borders and make not war on each other.

In the name of great Allah, his light and beauty render us awestruck, the Caliph would also let it be known that he intends to unite all of Anatolia under his benificent rule. The work has begun and will take less than two years to complete. Other Kings and rulers are advised to stay out of this territory lest they incur his wrath.

[Myth]

The Sicillian diplomat stands up and speaks in Latin for all to understand.

"Fellow representatives of the worldly powers of the west, north and east. The Genoese Dodge has gone mad with greed, as if securing trade across some of Italia's finest provinces were not enough for him. He was our ally in times past yet they struck at the honourable Dodge of Venecia and Duke of Swabia, who had done them no ill. Genoa schemed for war against the honourable Caliphs of the Moors and Fatamids, even as the Moors went to war with France on their behalf. It appears that Genoa has gone corrupt from the inside, and it falls to Sicillia to cleanse the filth from her body and liberate the good and pious people of the realm. Ajaccio has fallen during the small hours of this day, and all the defenders have been put to the sword, so that they may answer for their sins before God! The Genoese fleet has been sunk after the capture of its' home port, and soon we shall rejoice with the liberation of this realm.

Siciillia formally annexes Pisa, Bologna and Genoa, and vows to return Milano and any other provinces back to Venetia. We lay no claim to Tolouse and any other cities that may have been wrongfully plundered from France, and who have little to do with Italian matters."

[Nigel]

Vassili Alexandrovic, the Lithuanian diplomat, leans over to his neighbour and, in a quiet but not secretive voice, speaks: “Really, the situation in the West is confusing. The alliances there seem to be changing faster than the seasons.”

Then, in a more formal voice, he addresses the Moorish diplomat.
“Fārūq Zulficar, honour may go with your name. If indeed the Sicilian gentleman speaks true, the Genoese have thanked you badly for your help and protection. But what will the Sultan do now?

Forgive them and allow them again to shelter under the protective shield of the Moorish Empire?

Or reprimand them for their behaviour and take their French provinces in compensation?"

Vassili picks up one of the offered oranges, leans back in his seat and casts a questioning look at Fārūq as he waits for him to answer.

[Nightbringer]

I agree sir Vassili Alexandrovic, these western lords quite confuse me. We had attempted negotiations with the French as well, but they were most uncooperative, and now those we have taken under our protection attack us as well.

As to their territory in France, all of that they controlled they did by the permission of the Moorish Sultan. We held our forces back from taking the rebel garrisoned Toulouse that they might have a center to train quality troops. This castle cannot be allowed to remain in Genoese hands. It is quite near our heartlands and would provide them too easy an opportunity to betray us. For these reasons, Toulouse must be turned over by the Genoese immediately, if not, troops shall be organized for its forceful capture.

The only other territory in question is Marseilles, which the Sultan's troops captured from the French and were prepared to hand over once the war with France ended. Thankfully the city remains in our hands as it was still being used as a staging post for the war when this distressing news reached the Sultan. Given their treachery, the Sultan sees no reason that this city should be handed over.

This said, the Sultan is merciful, and does not believe it necessary for Genoa to be destroyed utterly. If Genoa surrenders and agrees to become a vassal state of the Moorish Empire, we shall take them under our protection. They would be allowed to retain control of their home city of Genoa, as well as the important city of Milan, but no more than that. If they serve well, and show no future signs of treachery, the Moors will attempt to negotiate for the return of more of their original territory.

Fārūq Zulficar turns to face the Genoese

Sir, I advise you to take up our offer with your Doge quickly. Hand over Toulouse and declare yourself a vassal of the Moorish Empire. If you do not, we can do nothing to protect you and surely your people will be wiped out by the other lords of Italy.

[Myth]

The Sicillian diplomat stands, he is tall and broad shouldered, his Norman blood is apparent as even if he is dressed more as a merchant than as a knight. "My Lord, this is hardly prudent. We have formally annexed all their cities in Italia and my King shall not let such a nest of treacherous vipers brood at our borders. Once proven corrupt, such a nation can only be redeemed trough conquest - leaving then to plot and stab at our back or that of our allies is something we shall never agree to. We warn you that should you insist on enforcing said protection, as well as denying us Genoa and Milano to Venice, you shall inflict war upon yourself, which would be regrettable as we wish for naught but trade and cooperation as we have stated long ago. If you truly harbor love for Genoa, grant them provinces in Western France or Iberia, far away from our own, and tend to them as you would a pet wolf. We want none of their ilk here!"

[Nightbringer]

The Sicillian diplomat stands, he is tall and broad shouldered, his Norman blood is apparent as even if he is dressed more as a merchant than as a knight. "My Lord, this is hardly prudent. We have formally annexed all their cities in Italia and my King shall not let such a nest of treacherous vipers brood at our borders. Once proven corrupt, such a nation can only be redeemed trough conquest - leaving then to plot and stab at our back or that of our allies is something we shall never agree to. We warn you that should you insist on enforcing said protection, as well as denying us Genoa and Milano to Venice, you shall inflict war upon yourself, which would be regrettable as we wish for naught but trade and cooperation as we have stated long ago. If you truly harbor love for Genoa, grant them provinces in Western France or Iberia, far away from our own, and tend to them as you would a pet wolf. We want none of their ilk here!"

The Sultan has no intention whatsoever of breeding hostility with Sicily or with Venice, and would not grant Genoa military protection against said powers. He only entreats them to see mercy and allow Genoa to live as a small client state. I of course understand your ruler's hesitation to let them survive so close to you, and he is free to act as he will without fear of war with us. The Sultan simply wishes to act as a mediator so that the destruction of a sovereign nation can be prevented if reasonably possible without further bloodshed.

[Ignoramus]

The Genoese emissary rises to his feet, and addresses the Sicilian envoy.

"You speak false, you faithless cur! The Republic of Genoa had no intention whatsoever of war with the Moorish Caliphate. Our trade was prospering with the income of their many wares, and we had much to lose and naught to gain from engaging in such a foolhardy venture. Would we be fool enough to risk the possession of Marseilles, which had so recently been promised to us?

He thens turns to the Moorish representative.

"We only sought assurances from the Sicilians that if aggression proceeded from the Moors, that they would come to our aid. Any state of our size would be imprudent if they did not do so.

It is rather the unparalleled greed, aggression, and treachery of the Sicilians here that is most sickening. We at least, gave warning to Venetians that war was imminent, and then sought to negotiate a peaceful end to the conflict that would be agreeable to both sides. But the Sicilians not only gave us no such warning when we asked their opinion on the matter, but led us to believe that such a move would be in their interests. Their true nature is revealed when, instead of warning us to leave off the Venetians, they play the fox and seize our lands!

I call upon the Moorish Caliph to address these injustices that have been inflicted upon our Republic, by the jealously and greed of the Sicilians, who were envious of our wealth and trade in the Western Mediterranean."

[Nightbringer]

The Moorish diplomat raises an eyebrow as he listens attentively to the Sicilian diplomat, before turning to the Sicilian one and giving him a smile.

Well sir, are these claims true.

My Sultan was informed by your King that the Genoese had refused to accept peace when you gave your warning. If those words were false we can hardly support you in this war against the Sicilians. I am sure that the Sultan does not wish to begin hostilities with Sicily, but actions such as this are likely to be seen as a grave insult, and may damage future relations between our people if your King does not admit his guilt and relent from his attack on Genoa.

Of course, if we receive good evidence that the Genoese diplomat lies, the Sultan shall be just as displeased with the Doge.

Perhaps these matters can be settled now without any further bloodshed.
Genoa may back down from their war with Venice, and Sicily shall back down from their attack on Genoa.

[slysnake]

The Venetian diplomat frowns at the Genoese diplomat, before chuckling to himself to face the Sicilian and Moorish diplomats

My King finds it most amusing how all this squabbling has aroused from an attack on our Kingdom! If you want any evidence of the Genoese lies, just ask them yourself - did they give us warning of the attack, and the demands they supposedly put before us? There were no demands of such! Demands were only made after the invasion and capture of Bologna!

Our hands were tied, we had already lost one region completely unprovoked, and the only offer of peace that followed was to hand over Milan to Genoese hands - all aggression from the Genoese towards our nation still appears completely unprovoked and unjustified to my King.

The Venetian diplomat begins to scowl at the Genoese diplomat.

Oh, and, dear emissaries, lest you not remember the apparent friendship that was once shared between the Genoese and Venetians? My King has good reason to believe that such talks of 'friendship' between our nations were only a distraction and ploy in order for us to have a false sense of security of the Italian Venetian borders, leading my King to move his Italian armies north to where they were needed most.

He then turns solely to the Moorish diplomat.

And this is why, with a heavy heart, that our war against the Genoese must continue, for, whilst they have only attacked my Kingdom in recent years, who is to say that they may attack another Europoean state, also unprovoked? Their very nature shall prove to be there very downfall! Great emissary of the Sultan, is this not enough evidence of pure, Genoese treachery and greed??

[Myth]

The Sicillian laughs heartily and gestures to show his amusement. "*clap* *clap* *clap* A splendid theatrical performance, truly worthy of a nation of men who wear makeup and scented perfumes. Genoa had stated "We shall make war upon Venetia" to which we responded that it makes little sense, as Venetia could crush them with half of its' army. But somehow they mistook this as a sign that we would join them in this treachery and make ill of our alliance? Furthermore, the alliance between mine own King and the Dodge of Venetia has been signed in person, a pact between warriors and honourable Catholics, whilst the treaty of alliance with Genoa had been never ratified, but rather inherited from rulers past.

In fact, we have gotten naught from Genoa but their desires for land. They first coveted an island already secured by our armies. Then they signed for alliance with the Moorish Caliphate in order to be able to bite a piece of meat from France's rump while the main part of the war was carried by the Caliph's soldiers.

We never gave sign that we would stand by an obsolete alliance and betray a man of worth and whom we would trust with our lives. The attack on Venetia was purely a Genoese adventure, aiming to secure two rich cities for them. And yes, Genoa did try to play at intrigue, attempting to instill fear, warning us of the alliance between the Moors and the Fatamids, trying to present them as a looming threat to which we must answer by unification. After plundering Venetia of course. Little did the Dodge know that we had already allied with both Muslim nations, the Fatamid Caliph being a brother in arms against the depraved Eastern Romans, and your Lordship well knows of our demeanor towards thine Caliph and lord-liege of Western Africa and Iberia.

The Genoese may not speak of honour, as their forewarning of war came whilst they lay siege to an undefended allied settlement. Ours is similar, but we have the means to storm stone walls and avoid lengthily sieges. We ask then, if Genoa was indeed so sure of the trade and cooperation with the Moors, why did it seek our military reassurance in a war against them? They seem to us like scheming rats, trying to secure the favor of all, and somehow start wars and take sovereign lands unpunished. None of these shall slip by us my Lord, as the men assembled here are not fools!"

[RexLegend]

Elated Norse diplomat rises from his seat

War in Northern Europe is over! Quick fall of Bergen and major battle for Eikundarsund were won and Kingdom of Denmark has claimed throne of Norway, uniting people of Scandinavia under one banner.
And within birth of Kingdom of Scandinavia, war broke out with French. There's no point of leaving lands for others when downfall of France is inevitable, no matter what Casus Belli others have.

After short discussion with one of his assistants, diplomat continues

Such intrigues going on in Liguria-Italia is really confusing and waste of huge amount of tint and papers, not to talk about lives that are being killed in armed conflicts. But oh well, fall of Genoa would have happened sooner or later, Doge of Liguria just triggered it to happen earlier, his wish hasn't gone unnoticed that's for sure.
King Scandinavia supports Swabia and Sicily in their war against Genoa and hopes that Genoese will get their severe punishment for such actions.

[Nightbringer]

Sir Norseman, I should let you know that the Moorish Sultan has already claimed the lands of France, aside from those parts claimed by England, as was made known to those who were already involved in the war. I tell you this now because the Sultan is likely to see your invasion as an attempt to steal lands that Moorish soldiers have rightly battled for. I urge you to put down your arms and create prosperity within your own lands.

As to the Italian fiasco, it seems clear none are ready to resolve this matter peacefully. Given the many contradictory accounts, I believe I have delivered the truth of the matter.

Genoa, being saved from their war with France, felt a need for the acquisition of further territory. They looked to Northern Italy and declared war on the Republic of Venice. Before doing so, they asked the Sicilians opinion on the matter, and got a warning that the war was dangerous, but no indication that it would create war between them. Genoa took this to mean they could fight a war against only Venice, and attacked. Sicily has now followed their alliance with Venice and attacked Genoa.

From this, I can reach no conclusion other than Genoa's fault in the matter. However, I urge the other lords of Italy to see the mercy your religion advocates and leave the Genoese their home city, under heavy guard.

[RexLegend]

Oh really? Although it wasn't our intention to grab all lands, only those which are bordering Scandinavian territory and are geographically suitable. I'm sure neither Swabia nor Scandinavia doesn't want to see infidels roaming in Cologne and Metz, not to mention that its geographically and politically vulnerable and threatening to both of our sovereignty. I don't know about England.
To make it clear, I'll make list of currently claimed territories: Cologne, Metz(taken), Rheims and Dijon.
We can negotiate about Dijon, but about other cities... Your armies must take them by force.

Please do not portay us as a threatening menace. We respect you as equals and Scandinavia wants as much peace as you do, but it's in our warrior blood. And this means we don't back off easily.

[Nightbringer]

So now you call us infidels as well? While claiming you desire peace? Surely you jest. These are not the acts of a warrior, but of a small child grabbing at what he has not properly earned. Have you defeated large french armies? Have you any reason besides greed to begin this war? No, the is answer is no to both. We will cede you Cologne as it is quite far East, but Rheims, Metz, and Dijon belong to us. As your forces already have taken Metz, we will pay you a reward for its capture and return to the Moors, but allowing you to keep it would be allowing theft.

We do not make you out as a threatening menace, and are sure you do wish peace. However, we cannot allow you to leech off of our accomplishments. So long as you respect us, and do not take actions such as this, you have no reason to fear a common border with us, and indeed may fidn trade very profitable.

[Nightbringer]

Well, what say you? Will you agree to this deal? The Sultan is willing to offer a sum of 10,000 florins for the castle of Metz. Additionally, I must warn you that any attempt to capture Rhiems or Paris will be seen as an act of hostility.

As to the war in Italy, can you not all see that this is madness. There is no reason that Genoa must be destroyed. They have taken illegitimate action to be sure, but they can be justly punished through reduction in power, not elimination. Show the compassion that your lord has taught you. For the time being, Genoa shall remain unmolested in Toulouse, and the Moorish caliph begs Sicily and Venice to see mercy by allowing Genoa to live on in their home city. Other settlements may be justly taken as a penalty for their starting this war.

[RexLegend]

We have another proposal: Give up your invasion plans on Greece and hand out all your Greek territories to Swabia and we will give you Metz and stop invading France except for Cologne. To be honest, Scandinavia doesn't care about shiny trinkets. One of few things we care about, is the well-being of our allies.

We hope this simple trade can prolong peaceful co-existance between our two great nations.

[Nightbringer]

We have another proposal: Give up your invasion plans on Greece and hand out all your Greek territories to Swabia and we will give you Metz and stop invading France except for Cologne. To be honest, Scandinavia doesn't care about shiny trinkets. One of few things we care about, is the well-being of our allies.

We hope this simple trade can prolong peaceful co-existance between our two great nations.

Invasion plans in Greece?
I have no idea what you are speaking about. It is true that the Moors came into possession of Corinth, but this was part of the war against the Byzantines, not any action against Swabia. If they have taken offense, we apologize, but were unaware.

As to your offer, we will indeed hand Corinth over to Swabia in exchange for Denmark handing over Metz.

[phonicsmonkey]

Ibn Battutah applauds the proposal.

It is good to see reason prevail over suspicion and mistrust. My master the Caliph would approve of this deal between honest men.

In case there is any suspicion as to my master's own motives I should like to announce to all gathered here that his claims on the western side of the hellespont extend only to those cities which were recently taken from us: Adrianople and this great city of Constantinople, at which inshallah we expect our great Caliph any day now.

While I am speaking I should like to make it known that the Caliph now considers the entire Eastern Mediterranean his private waters, from the southwestern point of Anatolia, to the island of Crete down to the north African coast and everything east of that line. No fleet, friend or foe, may enter this zone without express prior permission from the Caliph himself, on pain of immediate destruction.

Allah-u-akhbar!

[slysnake]

The Swabian emissary turns to the Moorish ambassador.

I think both you and the Dane have become, as you say, 'lost in translation'. I believe the message the Dane was trying to convey to your Sultan is that, whilst Swabia respects your presence in Corinth, both the Swabian and Danish Kings agree together that a trade of Metz for Corinth would be beneficial to both of our nations since the Danes are hardly in a situation where they need such money and Metz is more geographically and logistically viable to your Sultan than Corinth is.

The Swabian pulls out his finest bottle of wine and poors two glasses, one for the Moor, one for the Dane and one for himself.

I salute your Sultan for the acceptance of this gracious proposal, my King shall be most pleased that we have come to an agreement!

[Nightbringer]

The Swabian emissary turns to the Moorish ambassador.

I think both you and the Dane have become, as you say, 'lost in translation'. I believe the message the Dane was trying to convey to your Sultan is that, whilst Swabia respects your presence in Corinth, both the Swabian and Danish Kings agree together that a trade of Metz for Corinth would be beneficial to both of our nations since the Danes are hardly in a situation where they need such money and Metz is more geographically and logistically viable to your Sultan than Corinth is.

The Swabian pulls out his finest bottle of wine and poors two glasses, one for the Moor, one for the Dane and one for himself.

I salute your Sultan for the acceptance of this gracious proposal, my King shall be most pleased that we have come to an agreement!

The Moorish emissary lifts a glass to knowledge the Swabian's salute
And I salute the Kings of both your fine nations for their agreeableness on this matter.
He takes a long sip of the wine
A fine vintage, I thank you.

Now, with this matter settled so well, I hope we may also settle the matter of Genoa. Will the fine Kings of Swabia and Sicily have mercy upon them?

[phonicsmonkey]

He takes a long sip of the wine

Ibn Battutah shakes his head and tsks disapprovingly.

[Myth]

The Sicillian rubs his chin and looks at the map of the known world spread before him and converses with his retinue in a hushed tone.

"It is difficult to say my Lords. The King is in the field in Greece, and the young nobles assigned with this task take the assaulting on allies as a very grievous act. Leaving the Genoese at our borders will mean we will constantly need to have a levy present there in anticipation of further incursions on their part. And even if we were to call off our armies, Venetia would probably be impossible to convince, given that they have suffered the first blow of this war. I shal not put words into the Venetian diplomat's mouth, of course, but peace seems very unlikely. In order for Genoa to survive as a nation, it must abandon it's namesake city and the lands in Italia. A relocation North or East may suit them better.

I am sure the King would agree to pay 5000 florins for the costs of relocating the refugees to a remote land to whomever King or Sultan wishes to house them and grant them a province. But only if they return our African province and abandon their remaining cities in Italia."

[Nightbringer]

The Sicillian rubs his chin and looks at the map of the known world spread before him and converses with his retinue in a hushed tone.

"It is difficult to say my Lords. The King is in the field in Greece, and the young nobles assigned with this task take the assaulting on allies as a very grievous act. Leaving the Genoese at our borders will mean we will constantly need to have a levy present there in anticipation of further incursions on their part. And even if we were to call off our armies, Venetia would probably be impossible to convince, given that they have suffered the first blow of this war. I shal not put words into the Venetian diplomat's mouth, of course, but peace seems very unlikely. In order for Genoa to survive as a nation, it must abandon it's namesake city and the lands in Italia. A relocation North or East may suit them better.

I am sure the King would agree to pay 5000 florins for the costs of relocating the refugees to a remote land to whomever King or Sultan wishes to house them and grant them a province. But only if they return our African province and abandon their remaining cities in Italia."

The moorish Sultan would support such a move as well. Would the Doge be willing to do this?

[slysnake]

The moorish Sultan would support such a move as well. Would the Doge be willing to do this?

My Dodge sees such a proposal as a fitting idea, although all of us have yet to hear words from the mouth of the Genoese diplomat. As a great philosopher once said - "Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding." And so, it would seem, that it is that mutual understanding between our nations we require before we can move forwards with peace talks with Genoa...

[Ignoramus]

The Genoese emissary demurely replies.

"My Doge will give his answer shortly."

[Myth]

A messenger arrives. The Sicillian diplomat reads the scroll carefully and waves for the man to leave.

"Well as expected, Genoa and Piza have fallen, as no improvements have been made here between us my Lords. Our noblemen cannot risk the war effort and stall their armies. The Genoese Dodge has fortified himself near one of our cities, and King Drogo of Sicillia is behind him with an army.

I am also informed by the Royal treasurer that Sicilla that our levies have taken too much of a toll on our treasury and as such we will find it hard to finance a Genoese rellocation. We still wish for them to have a chance at a peaceful existence, though far from our borders and the lands of Italia."

[Mithridate]

Ibn Battutah shakes his head and tsks disapprovingly.
That sure made me giggle, it is a well tempered reaction though.

[slysnake]

The Swabian ambassador stands,

"It has come to our attention that Moorish spies have entered the lands around Frankfurt and Bologna. Whilst I am sure this is only an innocent movement of one's agents to another region, my King would still like to know of their intentions and why they have come to be positioned in Swabian lands."

[Nightbringer]

I apologize if you have taken affront to this, but we have simply positioned them there so as to watch our borders. If it offends you, they can be moved back into the edge of our territory. I assure you, there is no hostile intent.

[phonicsmonkey]

All the delegates are aware that the great city of Constantinople has been reclaimed by the armies of the Fatimid Caliph and the Byzantines ejected from the walls. Little has happened in the weeks since the re-occupation save that the greek icons and statues have once more been hauled away into storage and replaced with gilded calligraphed hadiths and mosaic works.

Ibn Battutah has been absent from the Courtroom for some days when, one morning, the conversations between the delegates are interrupted by a blare of trumpets.

The giant doors to the Courtroom swing slowly open and into the vast space parades a procession of ghulams in ceremonial garb, holding banners aloft and leading an elephant atop of which sits the Caliph himself, great Habushan of Al-Qahira, who styles himself Defender of the Faith and Prince of the Two Seas.

As the procession nears the throne it halts and the Caliph is helped down from his impressive mount by a pair of Nubians who clasp their hands together to form a step for his noble foot.

He ascends the dais as the great beast is led away and waits for the hubbub of conversation to abate before addressing those gathered.

Lords and Dignitaries of all the lands of the world, Bishmallah I address you today once more as Emir of this fine city, once the seat of my power and then rudely seized from me by the graceless and infidel Byzantine Greeks.

As it transpired this was to be but the glancing blow of the flailing arms of a drowning man. The so-called Romans are In shaa'Allah now scattered to the four winds, their brutish Basileos slain by my own hand in a great battle east of Nicaea. Now, under the leadership of some pup who can barely command the loyalty of those who remain aligned with his flag, they have but minutes left on this earth before our great alliance of Italy, Russia and Islam wipes them from the pages of history for ever more. Alhamdulillah!

I am most pleased to be able to host you here once more. In recognition of this momentous occasion this city will be renamed Al-Habushani and will form the seat of my empire from this day forth until the sun sets on the Caliphate forever, may the accursed day never come.

[phonicsmonkey]

Ibn-Battutah stands, a grave expression on his face.

I hereby announce, in the name of Caliph Habushan, that a jihad has been called upon the Kingdom of Sicily in order to reclaim North Africa and bring the Islamic peoples under the graceful banner of the Defender of the Faithful.

Great armies and fleets have been mobilized under the crescent moon and the armies of Islam have this season captured Athens and Sparta from the Sicilian infidels.

The Swabian navy has been blockaded at its ports at Arta and Corinth and will not be allowed to leave while hostilities are in progress between the Caliph and the Normans.

We beseech the allies of Sicily, the Swabians and the Tsar of Russia, to stay out of this conflict. If you join this war, our own allies the Moors will be forced to make war upon you wherever you are to be found.

This conflict can have only one end - the ultimate victory of Islam over the Sicilian infidel and the return of North Africa to the bosom of faith - do not stand in the way of mighty Allah!

[Nightbringer]

Ibn-Battutah stands, a grave expression on his face.

I hereby announce, in the name of Caliph Habushan, that a jihad has been called upon the Kingdom of Sicily in order to reclaim North Africa and bring the Islamic peoples under the graceful banner of the Defender of the Faithful.

Great armies and fleets have been mobilized under the crescent moon and the armies of Islam have this season captured Athens and Sparta from the Sicilian infidels.

The Swabian navy has been blockaded at its ports at Arta and Corinth and will not be allowed to leave while hostilities are in progress between the Caliph and the Normans.

We beseech the allies of Sicily, the Swabians and the Tsar of Russia, to stay out of this conflict. If you join this war, our own allies the Moors will be forced to make war upon you wherever you are to be found.

This conflict can have only one end - the ultimate victory of Islam over the Sicilian infidel and the return of North Africa to the bosom of faith - do not stand in the way of mighty Allah!

The Kingdom of Denmark is also encouraged to stay out of this war. It is a result of the Sicilians refusal to follow through on their promise to turn over North Africa after defeating the Byzantines.

There is no reason for the northern nations to involve themselves in this war, as it will only bring suffering to the people.

[slysnake]

Ibn-Battutah stands, a grave expression on his face.

I hereby announce, in the name of Caliph Habushan, that a jihad has been called upon the Kingdom of Sicily in order to reclaim North Africa and bring the Islamic peoples under the graceful banner of the Defender of the Faithful.

Great armies and fleets have been mobilized under the crescent moon and the armies of Islam have this season captured Athens and Sparta from the Sicilian infidels.

The Swabian navy has been blockaded at its ports at Arta and Corinth and will not be allowed to leave while hostilities are in progress between the Caliph and the Normans.

We beseech the allies of Sicily, the Swabians and the Tsar of Russia, to stay out of this conflict. If you join this war, our own allies the Moors will be forced to make war upon you wherever you are to be found.

This conflict can have only one end - the ultimate victory of Islam over the Sicilian infidel and the return of North Africa to the bosom of faith - do not stand in the way of mighty Allah!

The Swabian emissary stands, startled.

My King needs time to gather his thoughts on this issue. To him, this feels like an utmost betrayal. We kindly surrendered Jerusalem to your forces and left the holy lands to return to Europe. We stayed out of your waters surrounding west Turkey. We made trade. And now you repay us by blockading our ports and waging war on our allies?

[phonicsmonkey]

The Swabian emissary stands, startled.

My King needs time to gather his thoughts on this issue. To him, this feels like an utmost betrayal. We kindly surrendered Jerusalem to your forces and left the holy lands to return to Europe. We stayed out of your waters surrounding west Turkey. We made trade. And now you repay us by blockading our ports and waging war on our allies?

Ibn-Battutah responds.

We have been in negotiations with the Sicilian King for some time but we have failed to find a resolution to our dispute over North Africa, which pre-dates our alliance against the Byzantines and was set aside at that time by mutual agreement.

It is unfortunate that we have had to take these steps to secure our rightful claims, and we regret having to insure our own victory by blockading Swabian ports. We are happy to lift the blockade should we receive an assurance of neutrality from the Swabian King and are able to negotiate certain other terms in private.

[slysnake]

Ibn-Battutah responds.

We have been in negotiations with the Sicilian King for some time but we have failed to find a resolution to our dispute over North Africa, which pre-dates our alliance against the Byzantines and was set aside at that time by mutual agreement.

It is unfortunate that we have had to take these steps to secure our rightful claims, and we regret having to insure our own victory by blockading Swabian ports. We are happy to lift the blockade should we receive an assurance of neutrality from the Swabian King and are able to negotiate certain other terms in private.

The Swabian frowns.

Whilst this sounds very-much amicable towards my King, how can we be sure that, upon taking Sicilian lands, you will not simply send your armies into Europe? Even more so, the fact that the Moors are speaking up at this time leads us to believe that this little venture of your's is part of something bigger against the currently peaceful nations of Europe?

[phonicsmonkey]

The Swabian frowns.

Whilst this sounds very-much amicable towards my King, how can we be sure that, upon taking Sicilian lands, you will not simply send your armies into Europe? Even more so, the fact that the Moors are speaking up at this time leads us to believe that this little venture of your's is part of something bigger against the currently peaceful nations of Europe?

Ibn Battutah gestures to the Swabian to follow him to an antechamber for a private discussion.

[Nightbringer]

The Moors are involved for the same reasons as the Fatimids, and simply wish to see the lands of North Africa returned to Muslim hands. The Fatimids have kindly taken a lead in the negotiations, but the North African lands in question were to be divided between us and the Fatimids.

[Myth]

Treacherous curs, did you lose all sense of honour along with the tips of your mutilated manhoods?

Sicilly has made no promises to grant our lands in Africa to any of your lot, do not spread lies! You have been met with naught but defiance whenever you grasped at our sovereign lands. And do not think my king a fool, your actions were made apparent to him long ago. You will now be given a stern lesson in hand to hand diplomacy.

The Moors should drop their act, it does not befit honest warriors. Or are these fleets assembled in the Mediterranean somehow free of charge and made to pretty up the landscape?

[Nightbringer]

Hah! It is you who are the lier Sicilian. You most certainly agreed to discuss the matter of North Africa, and made it clear you would be willing to exchange those provinces for just compensation once the Byzantines were gone.

From the very start it was made clear to you that refusal to turn over these lands for compensation would result in war, and now you accuse us of treachery? It i you who have proven treacherous, simply using the conflict with the Byzantines to increase your own strength so that you could better resist us once you finally made it clear you had no intention of returning the Muslim lands of Africa.

[Nigel]

A tense silence has settled over the council room.
Some diplomats pretend to read through their documents, while others just lean back in their seats.
The Swabian and the Fatimid diplomat have returned from their private discussion - their faces betray nothing.

"Only a handful of desert sand." Vassili Alexandrovic thinks to himself.

[RexLegend]

Scandinavian diplomat arises with grim and serious face

Kingdom of Scandinavia has declared war on Poland and England.

Dear Poles. Swabia and Scandinavia have declared war on you since we need money from sacking and looting your territories. As we are at war, we thought demanding the concessions of Wroclaw, Prague, Vienna and Eszterzegom would be fair enough and we recommend you to accept these demands immediately. Unless you want a big and long bloody war. We do not negotiate for lesser terms in any way.

And for England... Your silence has been insulting and threatening to our sovereignty. Our spies have also reported that you and Moors are working together. These reasons are strong enough to start war to cut your strength down.

And you... moors. May Allahu give you enough sand to create path to Scandinavia and Swabia. It must be difficult to be used with green colors instead of yellowish one.
Going into overwhelmingly full-scale Great War for handful of sandy African lands is either very stupid or very, very brave action. All what matters is that you triggered the war. Don't blame the chain reactions. While you control half of Old World, you still want homely Africa... I could also demand from you to handle back all the former France and Iberia back to local nations.

Ridiculous...

[Nightbringer]

Scandinavian diplomat arises with grim and serious face

Kingdom of Scandinavia has declared war on Poland and England.

Dear Poles. Swabia and Scandinavia have declared war on you since we need money from sacking and looting your territories. As we are at war, we thought demanding the concessions of Wroclaw, Prague, Vienna and Eszterzegom would be fair enough and we recommend you to accept these demands immediately. Unless you want a big and long bloody war. We do not negotiate for lesser terms in any way.

And for England... Your silence has been insulting and threatening to our sovereignty. Our spies have also reported that you and Moors are working together. These reasons are strong enough to start war to cut your strength down.

And you... moors. May Allahu give you enough sand to create path to Scandinavia and Swabia. It must be difficult to be used with green colors instead of yellowish one.
Going into overwhelmingly full-scale Great War for handful of sandy African lands is either very stupid or very, very brave action. All what matters is that you triggered the war. Don't blame the chain reactions. While you control half of Old World, you still want homely Africa... I could also demand from you to handle back all the former France and Iberia back to local nations.

Ridiculous...

Ah, but you never did request that we do so.

To the other diplomats

You see their bloodthirsty nature? They attack the polish for no reason other than to loot their lands. Surely the world must come together in arms against these madmen.

[Zim]

I would say the Danes were now showing their true colors but I suspect all of us were aware their bloodthirsty nature, not much slaked since their destruction of Norway, was bound to come out again.

See how quick they are to declare war without provocation, giving diplomats only a few days to respond to their threatening message. A message obviously sent in bad faith, given their prepared forces off the coast of Scotland. We can only be glad we did not reply quicker with messages of peace, as they would only use the time to prepare an even larger attack and betrayal.

It is with sad hearts that we find ourselves aligned with Muslims against those of the true faith. But when it is the infidels who show themselves closer to the spirit of Christ and the so called christians betray the trust of their coreligionists and attack their peaceful neighbors, what choice do we have?

Head bowed and moveing slowly as if weighted with a great burden, the diplomat makes the sign of the cross and sits back down.

[phonicsmonkey]

Ibn-Battutah rises to speak on behalf of the Caliph. His eyes are steely with determination and a he has a strange, exhultant air about him.

Alhumdulillah! The armies of Islam are indeed on the march - the Caliph's forces have captured Benghazi from the hated Sicilians, and both Thessalonica and Sofia from the accursed Swabians!

In the battle of Sofia many brave men were slain - but few of the faithful! The Swabian ruler lies among the dead, his bones picked by crows..

https://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa181/phonicsmonkeytw/0287.jpg
https://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa181/phonicsmonkeytw/0288.jpg

Let this serve as a warning to those rulers who have not yet declared their neutrality in this conflict (he shoots a piercing look at the Rus representative), that by their lack of words they risk condemning themselves to the same fate...

[RexLegend]

Ah, but you never did request that we do so.

To the other diplomats

You see their bloodthirsty nature? They attack the polish for no reason other than to loot their lands. Surely the world must come together in arms against these madmen.

Spare your words, snake. War with Poland was inevitable since their King has been somewhat quite hostile against us. No-one likes unsafe rear-front while fighting in the Great War.


I would say the Danes were now showing their true colors but I suspect all of us were aware their bloodthirsty nature, not much slaked since their destruction of Norway, was bound to come out again.

See how quick they are to declare war without provocation, giving diplomats only a few days to respond to their threatening message. A message obviously sent in bad faith, given their prepared forces off the coast of Scotland. We can only be glad we did not reply quicker with messages of peace, as they would only use the time to prepare an even larger attack and betrayal.

It is with sad hearts that we find ourselves aligned with Muslims against those of the true faith. But when it is the infidels who show themselves closer to the spirit of Christ and the so called christians betray the trust of their coreligionists and attack their peaceful neighbors, what choice do we have?

Head bowed and moveing slowly as if weighted with a great burden, the diplomat makes the sign of the cross and sits back down.

Oh, so nice... Traitor of his own faith talking about betrayal. Don't you think it's christian duty to answer to call against infidel invaders? You did really help, by invading christian itself!
Large amount of armies heading towards Bruges with possible intention of invading Antwerp while having notable numbers of fleets to transport back to island. What do you think how it looks like? A provocation.

Enough of wasting words now. It doesn't change anything....

[phonicsmonkey]

Ibn-Battutah rises and, with a significant look to his Rus counterpart, begins to speak.

It is a grave misfortune that our lack of communication has caused there to be conflict between us.

We hereby publicly reconfirm our commitment to the non-aggression pact signed between our Caliph and your Tsar, despite recent events. This was your request and we understand that having fulfilled it there will be no further trouble betwixt our nations.

However, we urge you to make your own declaration - of neutrality in our war with the Italians and Germans. Indeed, join us in our struggle!

[Myth]

The Sicillian waves a hand in a dismissive gesture.

"Indeed, join you as your hordes become more numerous, your provinces richer and you still hold Jerusalem. Quite well for your lot, and in the end, you shall betray them just as you have betrayed us. Anyone can plainly see your path to domination of Europe and the Levante."

[phonicsmonkey]

The well-travelled qadi laughs.

Yes, inshallah, right through your lands and those of your ally! No need to go further north...

[Myth]

"You must believe everyone else here to be daft, for them not to see how close you truly are to achieving the domination of the region. Once you have what you want, north or south will be irrelevant. And talk not to me of your false God!"

[Nigel]

The Lithuanian diplomat receives a set of papers. After reading through them, he stands to speak, addressing the diplomat of the Moorish Caliphate.


Honourable Fārūq Zulficar, with all respect, but the recent advancements of the Moorish army have reached a point, where the expansion of the Moorish empire has to be regarded as a threat to every other nation. Therefore, in the interest of maintaining the balance of power in Europe, Lithuania has to request that the Moors stop further advances and withdraw from the Germanic cities. Otherwise, Lithuania will have no other option but to enter the war.

[Nightbringer]

The Lithuanian diplomat receives a set of papers. After reading through them, he stands to speak, addressing the diplomat of the Moorish Caliphate.


Honourable Fārūq Zulficar, with all respect, but the recent advancements of the Moorish army have reached a point, where the expansion of the Moorish empire has to be regarded as a threat to every other nation. Therefore, in the interest of maintaining the balance of power in Europe, Lithuania has to request that the Moors stop further advances and withdraw from the Germanic cities. Otherwise, Lithuania will have no other option but to enter the war.

The Moors will certainly withdraw from their Germanic holdings as soon as the war is over. However, to do so now would be most foolish, and surely you realize your demand is absurd in the midst of a war.

Should Swabia and the Danes beg for peace, then a large portion of their possessions may be restored, as we are not fighting this war for their lands, but so long as they continue to insist upon fighting we shall continue to seize their property so as to induce them to relent.

I encourage Lithuania to remain neutral. If this war in Germania is truly your concern, then you must realize it was the Swabians and Danes who declared war upon us. True, they were aiding their ally Sicily against whom we were the aggressors, but blame can hardly be put upon the Moors for our success in Europe.

[Nigel]

Your words, noble Fārūq Zulficar, are well received and your notion of re-instating occupied territories to their initial rulers after the war is an honourable one – even if I have not yet seen it ever happen in the short time as diplomat in Constantinople. But Lithuania applauds you for bringing forth the concept and hopes for the best.

Meanwhile, it shall also be known that Lithuania considers Scandinavia and Swabia to have good and just cause for their fight, taken up in defence of their ally and in the protection of his rights.

Regarding Poland, it appears that Senior Duke Boguslaw has manuevered himself into an unfortunate situation. While he has been aggressively expanding the Polish borders, he seemed not to have realized that the powers around him were forming strong alliances. Now, there is nothing wrong with aggressive expansion as such – even if you Christian lords might disagree with that notion – but it has led to a situation where Poland is perceived as a threat and potential source of instability by the neighbouring lands. Therefore Lithuanian troops are now moving into position at the borders and will take control of Warszaw, unless a diplomatic initiative from the Polish Senior Duke can successfully convince his neighbours that they can be safe from Polish armies invading their unguarded borders.

Also, it appears that the peace between Kiev and the Fatimid Sultanate was a rather brittle construction and has now fallen apart in a cloud of dust.




You continue to violate our terms, we can abide no longer. Kiev and the Fatmids are now at war and one city have already fallen to our might.
Give up Caesara, Constantinople and all towns, cities and castles in between and there shall be peace again.



We hope, Great Ibn-Battutah, that your hospitality here in Constantinople is of stronger material – and the walls of your palace, too.

[Mithridate]

Dissaproving, the Kievan rose again from the dark rear rows after having just read his two letters

Surely word travel quickly to reach these halls before even I receive my news and orders, our compliments to your spies throughout the realms.
Indeed, every word you speak is true but it needs to be said that the Kievan are reasonable as well as mighty.

Turning toI bn-Battutah, with a stout expression and stern gaze he continued:

When you blockaded our ports you violated our agreements, you payed dearly for that and in our honorable folly we forgave you and peace was thought to prosper. Yet barely a year later you occupy our lands after we specifically told you that it would mean war, in our folly we held our anger and gave you one last warning.

A warning you ignored.

With one fluid motion the Kievan drew a short sword from his robe, dramatically pointing it directly at the somewhat distant Ibn-Battutah to the dismay of those present.

No longer shall we stay our hands, Constantinople is to be ours and to be defended by a new Varangian guard while the Fatmid are to withdraw back to Antioch and beyond. Sicily is to be given all land south and west of the city under the condition of immidiate peace. Isparta and Caesara along with the cities in between are to become Kievan. Do this and you shall have peace while still being allowed a representative, do not and we will burn your lands around you as we enslave your people in the ways of old.

With the last sentences the Kievan lowered the short sword looking at the alarmed guards posited at the ready, with a sigh he cut his left palm and squeezed a small puddle of blood on the floor.

By my blood, the blood of the grand prince i swear this. Further dealings will be at the point of swords and strokes of axes unless you give us what we demand.

With that, he turned and began to leave the hall with a menacing look and sword still in hand
phonicsmonkey

[Nightbringer]

Hmm, and I thought you said you were reasonable. You sound more bloodthirsty to me.

[RexLegend]

Our minds and swords are with our Lithuanian and Kievan brothers, who have joined to our cause in defense of Old World agains Muslim invaders. May Old gods of Lithuania and our common god of Kievan grant them strength to withstand and drive out hordes of infidels. And may God have mercy on Sicilians, who suffer heavy casualities from both sides.

Recent victories have made King of Scandinavia to bring out his plans. We lay the claim on entire Britannia, to bring back to life the Knut's North Sea Empire and fulfil the Nordic goals of old. We are asking King Ralph to cede all his territories to Nordic possession and leave last territory of London without garrison. We promise no harm to local people then. If you refuse, then take up your arms and show what you've got!

Dear Fārūq Zulficar, complaining about others being bloodthirsty is ridiculous. Do you really think Kievans should sit and do nothing while Fatimids are on rampage? If so, European winters and summers have done no good for you.

[phonicsmonkey]

Ibn-Battutah rises to address the Kievan representative.

We are disappointed, if not surprised, at your cowardly attack on our holdings in northern Anatolia. Your pretext is risible - it was clear from your military and naval buildup and your lack of response to our diplomacy that you were planning to attack us and would seize on any flimsy opportunity to do so.

It matters not, inshallah the new Caliph Ja'afar will lead the armies of Islam to our ultimate victory. That is, unless you see sense - the door is still open for peace should you withdraw from our lands immediately and engage in talks regarding a new treaty.

[Mithridate]

Ibn-Battutah rises to address the Kievan representative.

We are disappointed, if not surprised, at your cowardly attack on our holdings in northern Anatolia. Your pretext is risible - it was clear from your military and naval buildup and your lack of response to our diplomacy that you were planning to attack us and would seize on any flimsy opportunity to do so.

It matters not, inshallah the new Caliph Ja'afar will lead the armies of Islam to our ultimate victory. That is, unless you see sense - the door is still open for peace should you withdraw from our lands immediately and engage in talks regarding a new treaty.
Turning once again to face the fatmid

Your accusations are laughable, only fools and weaklings fears what is untrue, we are neither. As to your "offer"...

Spitting a phlegm on some velvets hanging from the walls

That should match the blood on your floor, its meaning equally clear. We are simple perhaps brutal men, but men of honor nonetheless... Our word is iron.

[Nightbringer]

Turning once again to face the fatmid

Your accusations are laughable, only fools and weaklings fears what is untrue, we are neither. As to your "offer"...

Spitting a phlegm on some velvets hanging from the walls

That should match the blood on your floor, its meaning equally clear. We are simple perhaps brutal men, but men of honor nonetheless... Our word is iron.

Ah! Men of honor who actually spit on fine velvet! Next you'll be saying you are a man of refinement who has been forced into the barbarity of war by the "infidels."

[Mithridate]

Ah! Men of honor who actually spit on fine velvet! Next you'll be saying you are a man of refinement who has been forced into the barbarity of war by the "infidels."
The Kievan is no longer present, nor any representative.

Honor has an interesting relationship with manners, the japanese spit on the floor when they eat in accordance with their manners yet do you know more honorable people? Interesting how they backstabbed eachother and broke words though in the time of samurai... furthermore how the "mainstream arab" kill sisters over "honor" while they never hurt guests in their homes for any reason, but outside even if theyre innocent and defenseless in the name of religion... with no remorse.

Breaking ones word is however viewed dishonorable, anywhere you go. Spitting was twofold symbolic, the fatmid no longer have any honor to the kievan and are thereby not worthy of any respect :) They are strong, and worthy enemies however. We go to war because we said we would should he continue to dishonor and violate the NAP

Honor differ in all parts of the world :) True honor is measured in character imho, furthermore in action and inaction folly or not. For us it would have been better to attack when he first violated the nap, yet we waited as we where bound by our word and only truly free after "we will attack if you do not honor the agreements terms"

[Nightbringer]

The Kievan is no longer present, nor any representative.

Honor has an interesting relationship with manners, the japanese spit on the floor when they eat in accordance with their manners yet do you know more honorable people? Interesting how they backstabbed eachother and broke words though in the time of samurai... furthermore how the "mainstream arab" kill sisters over "honor" while they never hurt guests in their homes for any reason, but outside even if theyre innocent and defenseless in the name of religion... with no remorse.

Breaking ones word is however viewed dishonorable, anywhere you go. Spitting was twofold symbolic, the fatmid no longer have any honor to the kievan and are thereby not worthy of any respect :) They are strong, and worthy enemies however. We go to war because we said we would should he continue to dishonor and violate the NAP

Honor differ in all parts of the world :) True honor is measured in character imho, furthermore in action and inaction folly or not. For us it would have been better to attack when he first violated the nap, yet we waited as we where bound by our word and only truly free after "we will attack if you do not honor the agreements terms"

Ha, so he has fled before his filth spewing mouth was shut for him by the guards. Ah well, at least the smell will improve.

Just supporting my ally here, honor is subjective in the extreme to be sure, and I don't mean anything OOC

[phonicsmonkey]

Ibn-Battutah.

A guilty conscience has caused him to flee, no doubt. He speaks of blood on our floor, forgetting that he spilt it there himself...

[Mithridate]

This amuses me greatly :D

After checking everything and phonics prolly not having recieved my messages... no longer

then everything ive said besides him violating the first nap, planning to attack him and me/the kievan alike wieving the fort as a violation... is false
now, should i back and attack once the nap is over in a couple turns, hold my position or push on as planned?

Im really torn, i want to be viewed as honorable as a player and as the kievan character/s but in the Kievan facrions interest and reason (messagers killed by third party)

[Nigel]

Vassili Alexandrovic, the Lithuanian ambassador, returns to the courtroom at Constantinople after finally the plague has ebbed off and the Council of Diplomats is able to meet again. The other diplomats are already assembled, but he notices that several seats are now empty.

There is a heavy silence in the room. Although the Council has not met face to face for a long time, everyone is aware of the events by communication trough letters and messengers. No one appears to feel in a position to take the lead of the meeting. Finally, Vassili decides to stand up and raise his voice.

Gentlemen, I am the youngest serving diplomat and little does it befit me to take the Chair of this council. But please allow me to address some words to you all nonetheless and make you a humble gift.

Here I present you a map of our world from the secret chambers of the Lithuanian archives. This map has been composed from information gained from our allies and our spies as well as diplomatic communications. Please forgive the fact that it is surely inaccurate in areas far from Lithuania. I hope you will find it noteworthy nonetheless.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=7251&d=1348676042

As you can see, the Lithuanian and the Kievan empires have grown considerably. As have the Moorish and the Fatimid Caliphates. And it is well known to every educated man that the Moorish Caliph is the most powerful leader in the world today.

The kingdoms of Scandinavia and Swabia had formed a strong alliance in the centre of Europe until the corruption of their dynasties was exposed and their governments collapsed. Their lands are now open to be assimilated into the neighbouring empires and surely this can leave no doubt that the oriental alliance will be the dominating power for the years to come.

It is of note, though, that the Cumans have survived throughout all these years of turmoil and especially that the English have managed to bravely hold on against an overpowering enemy. It is these small but undaunted nations that deserve our special respect.

But let me not forget the brave struggle of those who fought and finally succumbed to overwhelming odds; the Byzantines, the French, Sicily and Poland. And also to mention are the King of Norway, who lost his power struggle against his rival from Denmark and the Doge of Genoa, who played – and lost – a dangerous gamble when he tried to play out two powerful neighbours against each other.

But now the peace among the nations is finally restored. So let us fill our glasses and drink to the health of our honourable colleagues, Fārūq Zulficar and Ibn-Battutah, diplomats of the most powerful alliance of Europe today.

:medievalcheers:

[Nightbringer]

Cheers!
And great game everyone. Although it ended in unfortunate circumstances, I really enjoyed playing with you all!

[Myth]

Great work Nigel!