Emperor of Byzantium

[Demon of Light]

This is a new e-mail campaign game. First, lets get some basics down:

version 2.0
expert difficulty
early period


There are some differences with this campaign that should be readily apparent. First is that it is in the Main Hall. There are two reasons for that. One is that I am looking to attract players who have shown that they have frequented these forums for at least a reasonable period of time. I have a better chance of finding those people here simply because the posting requirements are a bit higher. the other reason is that KukriKhan already has his hands full with the Almohad games in Entrance Hall. If I place this here, it won't be his problem.

The next difference has to do with how we select players. There will be NO list. This will operate on a first come, first serve basis. Whoever is first to ask for the game after a reign is over gets the game next. Second place counts for squat. If you asked after someone else did, try again later. Anyone who has followed these games knows why this rule is in effect.

Here is how I want things to work:
MisterX petitions for the game

MisterX receives game

MisterX posts that the game is recieved.

MisterX (substitute Mrs.X if that is appropriate)finshes game and sends the file to totalwardynasticgames@yahoo.com

MisterX posts an account of his reign.

MisterX posts something like "awaiting next player"

MisterX sends the game to next player when they show up.

OK. Are there any questions?

[Demon of Light]

I hereby ask for the game http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Demon of Light]

I acknowledge that I have the game http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Demon of Light]

Brief history of the reign of Emperor Alexius I of Byzantium:

Alexius I will be known primarily for two things. First is the extensive building program he embarked upon during his reign. He was truly a magnificent builder. This, however, pales in comparison to his most lasting feat. Alexius I will be long remembered for ending the Turkish threat.

In 1099, the Turks launched an offensive against the Byzantines. Sultan Suleyman I commanded the attack on Georgia while his son Osman commanded the attack in Lesser Armenia. The result was disastrous for the Turks.

In Lesser Armenia, Osman had his personal unit of elite bodyguards together with his brother’s unit. Accompanying them was a unit of mounted archers. The Byzantine commander, Romanus Maniakes, knew that he needed to force the enemy into a disadvantageous position. With this in mind, he positioned his infantry and archers (one unit each) upon a wooded hill. When Prince Osman and his brother attacked, they found that their Calvary was ill-equipped to conduct maneuvers in the woods. Osman’s brother died and Osman himself was forced to withdraw after it became apparent that the Byzantine infantry clearly held the advantage. The archers had already won the archery duel by this time.

The attack on Georgia was an even bigger disaster. It started well as the Turks initially seized the high ground but they ceded that advantage early in the battle and never recovered. Sultan Suleyman took his youngest son with him and proceeded to lose him in battle. It seems that the impetuous youth thought he could bypass the Byzantine infantry and attack the archers from Trebizond without repercussion. His error cost more than his life. His father saw him imperiled and desperately sought to save him. The Byzantine lines wavered and it looked like he might succeed but his son was cruelly cut down (by the very Trebizond archers he had sought to decimate no less) and fresh troops were tossed into the fray. Suleyman was seperated from the rest of his army and was slain by a flight of arrows. Had he not lead a charge to save his son, history might have turned out differently. As it stood, fate had decreed that the Turks were repulsed on all fronts and that a young and untested Osman I would lead a now humbled and humiliated empire.

Osman did a credible job as Sultan. He wrested control of Lesser Armenia from the Byzantine and seemed ready to redeem his father’s errors. He personally conducted a spirited defense of Rum and repulsed a Byzantine counter-offensive despite the fact that at one point he was surrounded by 150 enemy soldiers without the benefit of any living bodyguards. This all came to a crashing halt after Alexius I took an alternative route in destroying the Turks. In the final year of his reign Alexius ordered three assassins to kill the still youthful Osman. Two of them never returned. Osman had yet to produce a male heir so his death splintered the Turks into bickering factions that no longer posed a threat. ( funny how the point of a knife accomplished what 100 swords could not)

[Demon of Light]

Who's next??

[Mount Suribachi]

I'm up for it

[Mount Suribachi]

Received save game from Demon of Light

[kataphraktoi]

i petition for the next reign after mount suribachi

[Mount Suribachi]

I think you've misunderstood Kataphraktoi - when I say that I've finished with the save game, the 1st person who posts "I want it" gets the save game next.

Anyways, got the save game this morning, played up until around 1116 and I think I've got a bug...

I keep getting the "insufficient funds" message. My profit is circa 500 florins per turn. I had 1112 Florins in the bank. Each turn my balance goes up 1 florin - 1112, 1113, 1114, 1115, and I still keep getting the insufficient funds message. So I removed all my stuff in the build queue that costs 1000 florins and I still keep gettting the message, even though the only things in my build queues now are 100 & 200 florin improvements. I just took lesser armenia, got 300 florins for it, and my balance still went up by 1 florin. Anyone else seen this? Any suggestions? I think my next move will be to remove everything from my build queues and see if that sorts the problem.

[Mount Suribachi]

I am the stupidest Emperor who ever lived

STOOPID STOOPID STOOPID

Guess who was looking at the year, and not his florins above it...I feel like such a n00b... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wacko.gif

[Brother Derfel]

Quote[/b] (Mount Suribachi @ July 12 2003,05:50)]I am the stupidest Emperor who ever lived

STOOPID STOOPID STOOPID

Guess who was looking at the year, and not his florins above it...I feel like such a n00b... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wacko.gif
hehe, thats hilarious http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

[The_Emperor]

Ok Demon sign me up for it... The Byzantine Empire will endure

ralphwolf@clara.co.uk

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

[Dîn-Heru]

Quote[/b] (Mount Suribachi @ July 12 2003,11:50)]I am the stupidest Emperor who ever lived

STOOPID STOOPID STOOPID

Guess who was looking at the year, and not his florins above it...I feel like such a n00b... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wacko.gif
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif that is the funniest thing I have heard in a while http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

[Pablo Sanchez]

Quote[/b] (Mount Suribachi @ July 12 2003,05:50)]I am the stupidest Emperor who ever lived

STOOPID STOOPID STOOPID

Guess who was looking at the year, and not his florins above it...I feel like such a n00b... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wacko.gif
Everyone, get your sharpest knife. It's time to play "Justinian II." http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[MiniKiller]

I would like to try to, just gotta be on at the right time. Now can I put the save file on a floppy and onto my other computer? Thats where MTW is, then transfere it back via floppy and back to you guys? My rain would be peaceful unless already at war or trying to gain rebel territories.

One more question, if my kind dies on the first turn its over right? Only one king no matter what the age?

[Demon of Light]

I tried the floppy disk idea once. It didn't work for me. Of course, that isn't to say it can't work but only that I couldn't make it work. As far as the year thing goes, the answer is that you'd better make that an eventful year because it is the only one you'll get.

[Mount Suribachi]

The Emperor Alexius II, Anatolia, The year of the Lords grace 1116.

My Darling Mary. Good news my English Rose, our warriors have successfully taken Lesser Armenia from the muslims and returned it to the Roman Empire once more. Many of the Muslims fled on their horses to the North to join their brother in the rebel princedom of Rum. I am undecided at to whether to press home the attack there as well. They are many, and their army consists of light cavalry, such as I have so far been unable to recruit. I fear with their superior speed they will run rings round us and tire us out.

However the Egpytians are also contesting the province and I would seek to deny them any enlargement of their Empire. Reports from our border forts in Georgia say that the Egyptians have been having problems subduing Armenia, though they appear to have the area under control now. The Egyptians worry me, they can only attack in one of 2 directions - towards us or their Muslim brothers to the west. I have sent Stephen Orphanotrophus to try and conclude an alliance of friendship with the Egyptian Sultan, but Stephen is young and inexperienced and I hold out little hope.

I would desire to travel North and secure the Northern shore of the Black Sea, in order that it might become a Roman boating lake, and I would desire even more to return to Constantinople to be with you my love. But alas I do not trust the muslims and I feel I must remain here, to watch them, and warn them. I have left our only son, your beloved Manuel with an army to hold Lesser Armenia. He is a fine general, though I am worried about his strange behaviour. He has started talking to servants who don't exist I fear the stress of being the son of Gods Vice-regent on Earth is getting to him. Perhaps you could ask Patriach Sergius II to offer prayers to the Lord God on his behalf (not publicly of course, we must not worry the people or give our enemies an oppurtunity).

How is my sister Vigilantia? Perhaps you should visit her and her husband, Lord Prvovencani in Greece.

I worry about our economy too. We do not have enough money to make the investment necessary to increase our cash flow. Perhaps we must tighten our belts for a few years in order to save the money we need to build up our infrastructure. I have also been severely embaressed. Whilst checking the annual financial report I saw that our coffers had increased by only one florin. I flew into a rage and demanded to know where the missing money was, then I realised I was looking at the year, rather than the balance. It was a most embaressing public display which greatly amused those gathered in the Main Hall. I hear whispers that some have started calling me "Alexius the Wise" though alas, not in a respectful way as my forefather Leo was known, but in a mocking way.

Nevertheless, I plan to try and continue to build up my empire and increase the happiness of my people.

Your loving and faithful husband

Equal of the Apostles

Alexius

[MiniKiller]

So ur not dead yet? bummer lol just kidding.

[Odinn]

Post the maps plz http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

[MiniKiller]

update update

[Casca]

Well done Mount Suribaci I look forward to reading more of your progress http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[Mount Suribachi]

Mary, my love. I must first apologise to you for the fact that I have been a stranger to you all these years. Just once in the last 20 years have I been back to Constantinople to see you, and even then the stay was so brief, as once more our enemies attacked our borders and I was called away. Now we have no sons to take over from us, but at least I have 2 brothers to take over from me. You must call my brother Andronicus back from Serbia. By the time he reaches our great capital, I will probably be dead. Yes my love, I am ill and the physicians tell me that I have only 12 months to live, if it is the Lords will. I would ask you to pray to out protector, the Virgin Mary, but I am mindful of Hezekiah. He prayed to the Lord for healing when he was at the point of death and his prayer was granted. But in the extension of life that was granted him, Manasseh was born, the longest lived and the wickedest of all the Kings of Israel. I do not want to live on, only to sire a Manesseh. It is worry enough that Manuels mental state has deteriorated lately, he is now painting his servants blue and sucking on horseshoes...he is fine general, but the men can only take so much.

Andronicus's affair with Lord Diogenes may have become public knowledge, but he is a fine general and an intelligent man. As soon as he arrives in Constantinople I order that he be crowned as Basileus by the Patriach in the great church of St Sophia. I hope he has a more peaceful reign than I. It was with great joy that I heard the news of the defeat of the Crusade by the Holy Roman Empire that was rampaging through our lands towards Antioch. The army in Bulgaria, though greatly outnumbered put up a brave fight before they were forced to retreat to their fort. And what a sight the battle outside the walls of Constantinople must have been Lord Byrennius, Duke of Trebizond led his small army with great skill and bravery to drive those hordes of Frankish barbarians from our land Send him my apologies that I did not provide him with more troops, but I did not expect the crusade to arrive at our borders so quickly.

As for myself, I am happy with what I have achieved in the East. The battle to defeat the claimant to the vacant Turkish throne in Rum was a fine example of the valour and skill of the armies of Rome I was most proud of my men that day. The treacherous surprise attack by the Egyptians produced more of that pride as we beat them back in Georgia, Trebizond and Armenia. The Egyptians paid for their treachery when a civil war ensued following their series of defeats. Indeed,as their empire broke apart, it gave me great satisfaction to receive their emissary, grovelling and begging for a ceasefire Though I agreed, I am sure they will no doubt attack us again soon enough.

Still, their problems were to our advantage. I have been able to take some of the lands that broke away during the civil war. Antioch and Edessa are now ours again, and the way is open to Tripoli and even the Holy Land itself, should Andronicus so desire it.

I must go now my love, farewell. I shall try and write more soon.

Alexius.

[MiniKiller]

so does that mean ur 55? How old is ur brother? I want to try this but if he is past his 30's....

[Mount Suribachi]

Andronicus the adulterer is in his 50s. Manuel the crack brained is in his 30s.

[MiniKiller]

And will Manual be taking over? If so and you are near death I would like to take on ur reins.

re-read ur write up, guess not, lol but he will only have like 3 turns or so. I'll wait http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[Mount Suribachi]

hehe, hold your horses minikiller, you gotta be the first to post *after* I'm done.

All this power is going to my head muwahahahahaha http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif

[MiniKiller]

well than by golly...finish hehe u old old man http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

Let me know who takes over, maybe send ur 50 year old brother to battle to die, that rein would be what 6 years tops, lol.

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] (Mount Suribachi @ July 15 2003,17:47)]hehe, hold your horses minikiller, you gotta be the first to post *after* I'm done.

All this power is going to my head muwahahahahaha http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif
I think that system sucks,

I say create a list and even things out... and if the list gets too big and the campaing ends, you can always start another campaign.

[MiniKiller]

WEll I have to go to work, can I like, uhh be exempt lol and take control if the younger brother takes over? maybe I can but only if u guys after me dont mind?

[Yoko Kono]

ooo the tension mounts
a king on deaths door
an heir with but 6 years to live and a community to satisfy with tales of great deeds
keep it up
its all too much

p.s. as the oldest patron of the borad in this thread can i lead the six year reign? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif

[Demon of Light]

Quote[/b] (The_Emperor @ July 15 2003,11:20)]
Quote[/b] (Mount Suribachi @ July 15 2003,17:47)]hehe, hold your horses minikiller, you gotta be the first to post *after* I'm done.

All this power is going to my head muwahahahahaha http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif
I think that system sucks,

I say create a list and even things out... and if the list gets too big and the campaing ends, you can always start another campaign.
I thought someone would eventually say that. Bear in mind that I had to deal with about a dozen people bailing on the English campaign. That experience has lead me to conclude that lists are too unreliable for use. Too many well-meaning people sign up in June but can't take the game in July. I didn't create this system capriciously. Every person who gets this game is prepared to play it right now. They already took committments into account and find that they have the time. Fact is that I don't want to go through my English experience again and I'm taking steps to assure that I don't.

I hope that explains it.

[The_Emperor]

If someone doesn't make themselves avaliable to play it, perhpas they should be skipped and put back on the end of the list...

The basic rule should be, only put your name down if your serious.

[Demon of Light]

The problem with lists lies in how many people have to be skipped and how they slow the process. Each game gains momentum through participation. If a game loses its momentum, it can begin to be seen as not being viable. Then you get less participation and the cycle begins anew.

The basic rule is that only people who are serious should put their name down and I'll be the first to say that the Almohad campaigns have had more people willing to do that. Fact is though that you can't ascertain who is serious and who isn't. There simply isn't a litmus test for that. THere is also the problem of people who are serious finding they just can't invest the time into when their name comes up. Everyone who drops their name on a list is ready to take a game at THAT moment but not necessarily in 3 weeks when it is their turn. FActs of life and all that.

I won't consider risking another King of England and I will not oversee a game to that extent at this time.

[Skie Mirror Silvanoshei]

I'm in.

[Mount Suribachi]

Alexius never did write to his wife Mary. He died aged 56. With a limited budget, he struggled to secure and expand his empires borders and develop the economy. Nevertheless, he did manage to build some of the infrastructure needed to boost the flagging Byzantine finances. In the East he had great success, destroying a Turkish rebellion before it had chance to re-establish the Turks as a thorn in the Byzantine side. He fought off a surprise attack by the Egyptians and then went on the offensive to take advantage of the Egyptian civil war caused by their unsuccessful attack. In the west, his armies, though greatly outnumbered fought bravely and skillfully to defeat the huge crusade launched by the Holy Roman Empire, the final and decisive battle being fought just a few miles from the walls of Constantinople.

As instructed, his brother Andronicus returned to the capital and was crowned in the Church of St Sophia. However, at 51 years of age, with no children and with his long affair with Theodora, the wife of Lord Diogenes of Serbia now common knowledge, he was unpopular with the people, the army and the orthodox clergy. The only alternative though was his younger brother, Manuel the crack-brained. Crazy or not, Manuel had one huge advantage that Androncus did not. A 10 year old son, and his wife pregnant with another child which all the soothsayers and astrologers were sure would be a boy. So it was that after less than a year on the throne, Andronicus was assassinated and a 39 year old who liked to paint his servants blue and suck on horshoes was crowned Gods vice-regent on Earth.

[Mount Suribachi]

Save game emailed to DoL.

I'm done, who wants it? First to post gets it.

[The_Emperor]

I want it ralphwolf@clara.co.uk

[Mount Suribachi]

Laaaayyyyydddeeeeeeeeees and gentlemen we have a winner.

Kinda ironic that the person most critical of the 1st come 1st served system gets the game next http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

Anyways, savegame zipped and emailed to The Emperor.

[The_Emperor]

Well i do spend wayyy too much time on these boards as it is... but saying that its lucky I came on at all, I was just about to disconnect and start a game.

Oh well its now downloading, cheers mate. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

(Like a true politician, I now retract what I said about the system) http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

Alright I now confirm that I have the Game, I'll keep you guys posted of my reign and be sure to give you a full write up complete with Pictures. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

[MiniKiller]

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

[The_Emperor]

Diary of The_Emperor of Byzantium, 1133 AD.

With the Death of my great predecessor Alexius II, Command of the Great Byzantine Empire is has now passed to me Emperor Manuel I.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/emperor.jpg

By the grace of Almighty God I will uphold the honour and traditions of my Forefathers and fulfill my task as leader of the one true church of God.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/cracked.jpg

I have heard the whispers about me, they say I might be unstable... ME unstable pah What my critics fail to see is that Blue goes well with Purple, i just can't stand the sight of Purple on its own... besides nothing wrong with that is there?

its also amazing how few people understand how much fun a good dance in the moonlight is... or how tasety horseshoes can be at times.

I'll show them all....

As I look over this land I can see where attention is needed... and what I must do.

- We have no govenor in Constantinople, and I will try my utmost to recruit one. My personal preference is for someone who has good military command skills, but is also adept at managing the finer aspects of finance within this great city.

- I will need to focus most of my attention on developing a strong Navy to trade with other lands. Our strong Military presence desperately needs financing and I will produce much of the revenue from trading our fine goods abroad. Farmland development is also a priority.

Militarily we are strong, but the Egyptian forces on our doorstep are untrustworthy, they have a vast army on our doorstep and I feel that we may end up being at war within a few years. They do have their own problems with rebellion.

Our Hungarian allies to the Northwest are strong, but do not have the number of troops the infidel has. I will pay them the respect they deserve, and they will always be of use later on if we decide to crush the Tartar rebels to the North.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/skilledatt.jpg

Attacking is in my blood, it is what I am good at... I will strike hard and fast, we will prevail for Almighty God is on our side... And no-one will expect the killer combination of Purple and Blue men on the battlefield, Muhahahaha

[MiniKiller]

I hope i get in next round lol

[jLan]

Me too :o

[Demon of Light]

Only someone truly crack-brained would mistake his brother for his father. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

P.S: Post a map? The one that shows Mount Suribachi's progress?

[The_Emperor]

I will post a map when I get off work later on.

And then I will try to go through my reign as quickly and effectively as I can.

[The_Emperor]

Alright here is a map of my border with Egypt... and the Minimap.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/eborder.jpg

As you can see we haven't expanded much and most of the forces on the Border with Egypt are mere mercenaries and require reinforcement.

[The_Emperor]

Ok people, i have finished, my king has died making way for the eldest Son Michael VIII.

He is "Strange" and has no noticable Military command ability, His younger brother is just the same but not quite so odd.

The Empire's navy has grown well, and our finances are getting larger.

Thanks to my Efforts the Egyptian army has had its back broken, but the Sultan did lead a massive counterattack in Palestine which was horribly defeated. he has no heirs and will be dead in two years anyway.

We now control as far south as Arabia and Palestine... and I will give a full account of the spectacular battles against the vast Infidel armies.

Who wants it next?

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

[Yoko Kono]

ill take it please

mail to hhh2yoko_kono@hotmail.com

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

[Skie Mirror Silvanoshei]

I want it.

[The_Emperor]

We have a winner... Yoko Kono the game is en route.

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

[Yoko Kono]

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

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

[MiniKiller]

i seriously hate this system. i got the most posts here yet i am never on the right time. I just god damn give up.

[The_Emperor]

Last Recorded Letter from Emperor Manuel I, on the frontline in arabia, to his eldest son Michael. Year, Unknown.

My Son, these years have proven fruitful for our nation and now I regret that my health has been in decline, I fear that I will not survive the end of the year. These years spent campaigning against the Egyptians have taken their toll on me and I am now suffering a terrible illness.

The war began as Egyptian forces were massing on our borders for a few years, even though our treasury was low I gave the risky order to wage war and to strike them down first. I also gave orders for new trade buildings to be constructed, a navy to be built, and for farmland to be improved over the course of my rule.

The Cowardly Egyptians ran at the sight of my army when we crossed into Armenia, leaving the province to our forces. Still I decided we must press on and two years later we crossed into Syria. Most of the Egyptian forces had invaded the rebel-held Tripoli, and the remaining forces ran for the cover provided by their fort. The Rebels were defeated, but the Egyptians now had a sizable force in the province led by their greatest general Abdul Al Kamil.

The following year The Pope and the Holy Roman Emperor, allied with us... With the Pope on our side I knew that Catholic actions against us would not be looked on kindly, and that Crusades would be difficult to arrange. The same year I crossed the Border into Tripoli at the head of 1100 men, battle was joined.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/battles/battle1.jpg

The Egyptians had the benefit of superior numbers and a defensive position on a double hill. I decided to approach the hill from the East and the enemy fell back to the second higher hill however he made the mistake of falling back to the downward slope on the rear of the mound.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/battles/battle2a.jpg

Our Trebizond archers screened by spearmen moved into range and started to shower the enemy archers with a hail of arrows, and at that moment I decided to lead our Byzantine Infantry and Cavalry around to capture the top of the hill (route shown by black arrows).

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/battles/battle3.jpg

We captured the hill and our momemtum in the fight was considerable and many of his troops fled in panic, the enemy General led his camel warriors in a foolish charge uphill. We surrounded him and after taking heavy losses he attempted to escape... He was knocked down and captured, his execution swiftly followed.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/battles/battle4.jpg

I spent a few years consolidating our lands... but soon enough the Egyptian Sultan led and attack on Rebel forces in Arabia. While the Egyptians exhausted themselves fighting rebel armies I prepared to cross the border to capture the holy city of Jerusalem.

A great militay leader had emerged within our ranks, Lord Nicephoritzes. He was perfect to take over leadership of Constantinople. As you well know he married your sister, Princess Maria. He led our forces to victory in Arabia, but his victory was to be short lived for when he moved on to garrisson Jarusalem and I moved my army into the Sinai... the Egyptian Sultan manage to sneak a large force over the border into Arabia to help its besieged garrisson.

I immediately led my forces back over the border into Arabia to finish off the Sultan, only to find a tiny force guarding the province. Our archers routed the army before a sword was drawn, with over 200 dead to the enemy and no losses for us.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/battles/arabia.jpg

We soon found out that the Sultan's army had moved from Arabia, into Palestine to try and drive us out of the Holy City, Lord Nicephoritzes organised a valiant defence against a force nearly twice his size...

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/battles/sultan1.jpg

Choosing the high ground he screened the archers with our infantry and shot the enemy to bits when they advanced. We charged forward and routed the enemy... The enemy Sultan, with no regard for his honour ran from the battlefield.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/battles/sultan2.jpg

Our troops could not give chase, and soon wave after wave of Brave Bedouin Camel warrior reinforcements pressed down on us, even the archers inequipped as they were had to enter the fray to prop-up our exhausted troops.

As the dust settled we stood victorious... we had slaughtered close to 1500 of the enemy and had only lost around 200 men.

http://home.clara.net/ralphwolf/battles/sultan3.jpg

The enemy Sultan is now known as a coward and a fool when attcking, he is old and has no heirs I predict his faction will crumble within the next two years.

Know that I name you as my successor, you have yet to make a name for yourself on the field of battle but I know the Empire is safe in your hands... and with commanders like Lord Nicephoritzes on your side, you can only prosper.

I expect to soon join my Father and Brothers in the hereafter.
Your father Manuel I, Bane of Egypt.

[Demon of Light]

I deleted my previous post. My e-mail has The_Emperor's completed game. I'm still awaiting his call for a successor...( Unless his post above was meant to do that.

"Know that I name you as my successor, you have yet to make a name for yourself but I know the Empire is safe in your hands... and with commanders like Lord Nicephoritzes on your side, you can only prosper." - The Emperor

Is that the call?

[The_Emperor]

Yoko Kono is the successor I sent him the saved game.
My call for a replacement is on the end of page 2.

That letter was my write up of the reign.


MiniKiller Don't worry, you'll get there... just keep checking back as often as you can

[Demon of Light]

Oops. Sorry.

[bhutavarna]

pardon my intrusion, i can't help but follow this interesting thread.

although i'm not planning to joint the ranks of byzantine emperors due to lack of time, i want to offer a suggestion to make this campaign more interesting. why don't you guys set a goal, reconquering the roman empire perhaps. let's see how many emperors it takes to achieve that.

[Mount Suribachi]

Well, I think the goal of the dynasty is to conquer the known world, not just the Roman Empire.

Would be an excellent idea for a GA game tho. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[MiniKiller]

We need an update.

[Yoko Kono]

okay sorry folks been working but im back on track now
will update after a few hours http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Yoko Kono]

OK whos next, the emperor is dead, again victim to the curse of 56 years
the empire has conquered the holy lands and driven the almohad hordes back into tunisa bringing stavilty to the sacred lands
churches are being constrycted daily to establish christianity as the true religion once more
a crises of succession in siciliy saw our imperial armies take sicily as our own and establish ourselves as the richesest empire in the world with our extensivve trade networks
no many changes hands without enriching our already vast reserves al cash
this wealth and prosperity saw the holy roman empire lauch a crusade towards constantinople
our aged king met this magnifenct army in the plains of bulgaria and few were spared as byzantine cavalry danced on the graves of a thousand souls who died in gods name for the empires greed
we expect their return...

our great leader died a few years later but his army still stands in bulgaria waiting on new leader, one who can turn the riches of byzantine into the most glorious empire the world has seen

All rise for Emperor Neciphorus IV

First to post gets the save and last battle replay

Yoko

[MiniKiller]

me

Now that I FINALLY GOT IT http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif How old is he? How can I post pictures to keep u guys up to date, this is so cool http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[Yoko Kono]

whats your emai address?

[The_Emperor]

You know I feel sorry for the guy who is on the Throne in the year 1230...

The Golden Horde could prove to be some serious fun http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Congrats Mini Killer, glad you finally got the game. Have a good few years conquering http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

[MiniKiller]

jbrvincent@attbi.com

LEts hope his is only about 40 lol.

[Yoko Kono]

ok ive zipped up and sent you the saved game and a replay of our last battle, where we killed about 1200 http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

enjoy

[MiniKiller]

Thanks got it, but I think my security is to high.

I cant open it it says "OE removed access to the following unsafe attachments in your email" Then the title of the save file. This happened last night to how can I accept this instead of this auto blocking feature? thanks

Try jbrvincent@comcast.net

Dunno why its deleting them onsite.

[Yoko Kono]

do you use msn messenger or mIRC?

ok ive sent it again
if you use msn messenger (it comes with windows XP) i can send it to you via that if thats any help?

ok i resent to both addresses again http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[MiniKiller]

I use "outlook express"

Damn it deleted it again, must be some new comcast thing...I'm not happy with comcast at all.

I have aol instat messanger and yahoo instant messenger.

[MiniKiller]

I think I fixed it, lol sorry to bother but try that messege one more time http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[MiniKiller]

Ok, Campaign recived http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif I'll get it going tonight after work and my 2 hockey games.

[Demon of Light]

Mini-killer: Good luck.
THe_Emperor: I like your write-up. Good job.

[The_Emperor]

Thanks DOL. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

I was inspired by those I have seen in the Almohad campaign thread.

[MiniKiller]

Still trying to figure this out but I dont think you sent me the right file.

You sent me a file the ended it .rar but the saved game files end in .cpg. I changed the end to .cpg and it appeard ok. I hit load from the load game menu but it never goes.

Did you maybe send me the replay file by mistake? (Hence .rar and no .cpg?)

I'll keep trying.

*edit*

Ya its not loading, it fully loads it then just stops. The file you sent me is .rar and is not the actual save file of the game (.cpg)

[The_Emperor]

.rar files are another format of zip file.

I guess you need to find something like Winrar to open it.

[MiniKiller]

*second edit*

I got it, downloaded winrar and transfered it to my comp with MTW Next post (soon or Sunday morning) Will be my kings inagual address complete with plans, provinces, other nations etc.

[MiniKiller]

I'm only 29 Alright, well I have to decide who to give titles to and stuff. I'll post my "inagural adress" http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif Sunday after work.

You c I'm talking to someone online right now and well SHE is pretty nice http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

[Empress_Zoe]

I don't know who thought of these posts, but ever since the first 'King of England' post I have loved these, keep it up guys, very enjoyable to read, im almost to the point of begging for them to be stickied. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

[MiniKiller]

A few things before I get started. How do I take pictures of the camp and battle map and then how do I post em here? Thanks.

And EZ, I hope I can live up to ur standards http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[DemonArchangel]

hello, i was just stopping by, good job Demon of Light. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Demon of Light]

Empress_Zoe: The person who started it all was Herodotus. He also managed to play in the Polish game.

MiniKiller: F2 will get you screenshots. Go to the TGA folder in your Medieval folder. That's where you'll find the screenshots. Incidently, can you send a copy of the game to totalwardynasticgames@yahoo.com? Yoko Ono forgot o do that. (I mean the version Yoko gave you BTW)

My fellow Demon: Thank you

[MiniKiller]

Ok thanks, I will be writing my first write up soon.

Ummm I can but I kinda already did some things...does that matter?

[Empress_Zoe]

Well Herodotus is a legend then. And his 'the histories' is also an excellent work.

Now please, guys, get these stories pumping.

[MiniKiller]

*clears throat*

Hello fellow members of the house and members of our grand civilization. I am...well I've been told by our Lord not to give my name as of yet, but I am his mere messenger boy. He has granted me the authority to come here and introduce his greatness. He is now preparing his final glorious inagural speech. He hopes it will place you in a state of utter awe. His rein will be the rein that is talked about for years and years after his passing. The speech will begin in approx: 1 hour. After our lord has spoken questions may be asked and if he particularly likes you or the question he may even answer it in person in front of you all today.

Bow down to his greatness

LONG LIVE BYZANTIUM

*steps down from platform and dissapears in the dark shadows*



---------------------------------------------------
How was that? Opinions?

[Yoko Kono]

sorry demon ive mailed the campaign to that email addy now

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

[MiniKiller]

1180AD

*enters the room*
*bows to all*

Hello everyone, I am very pleased you could all make it hear today. The year is 1180, I am Emperor Nicephorus the 4th, I am at the age of 29 and I will be your new leader into this world of danager and prosperity.

I have 3 siblings, only 1 of which is passed the age of 16. His name is Prince Constantine and is a 3 star general. He, like myself find it hard to belive in a supreme being and he sets fear in the eyes of all you stare. He is a very intelligent man at the age of 22 and could very well up us propser even more than we already have. Prince Alexius is 15, one more year and he to will take command of a small army. My youngest brother is Prince Androncius and he is at the age of 10.

I am not married but hope to find a suitable bride soon and I would hope see bare's a son, my son is the true heir to the thrown. My influence is far spread and everyone flocks to me, to pelase me. No matter what decsion I make, someone will take my side. I also instill fear into the eyes of my enemy, although I must admit, my brother Constantine is better at this than I. I have a hard time and am fairly ignorant towards the divine but am open to all ideas in life. My command is at 2, I have fought in battles and won but I fear not enough to fully gain the trust of all my men. I am smarter than the last Emperor and my promise to you is that we will prosper.

Now onto other notes. We are currently allied with the following countries:
Spain
The People of Novogord
Papacy
Italians
Aragonese

We are at war with:
Germans
Almohads

I am sending an emmisary to try and ally with a neutral country called Hungry. They border us in many provinces and I would hope that we can become friends and together wipe out the Germans who stand in our way.

The Almohads are also at war with the English. Fighting on 2 fronts is never a good idea. We are currently stuck in a war on 2 fronts but I hope we can end one threat soon.The Germans are also at war with ar ally the Italians and a neutral foe, the Danes.

I current treasury is 131495 and is predicted to go up almost 9000 again in the upcoming year.

My time is short and I must go attend to my new duties.

War is upon us, but I will do my best to keep peace with the rest of the world but if we fail we will fight back and will triumph. I'm not one to attack provinces to gain there wealth but if attacked first I will retaliate with force and the intent of taking land over.

I thank you for coming and will speak again soon.

Emperor Nicephorus the 4th

[Demon of Light]

Applause
shouts of "all hail the Emperor"

[Sainika]

The Mongols are approaching http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Looking forward for the show.

[MiniKiller]

*enters room, sits downs*

Hello everyone, its been about 5 years since I"ve last held a gathering like this. The Germans are attacking our ships along the costs on England and France...they are winning, we are beggining to pump out more and more in hopes we can counter. The Hungarians refused are alliance but declared tht they are in no plans to attack us. Still I dont know if I can trust them. The Almohads hold 4 provinces now and I plan that Our great nation and The Enlgish will both get at least 1. We are pressuring from the east and they are pressuring from the north. There will be a grand battle, a 3 way battle soon, this will determine who captures the most of the Almohads lands. My plan, get out of the way, let them duke it out and swoop in and scoop up the pieces.

Thank you for your time, nothing else much has changed, The Italians are gaining ground on the Germans a bit thats about it. I have inisde info from a sailor that they saw thousands of wierd lookin men on the ohter side of our world massing together. I fear they may attack us, therefor I will not attack the German stronghold to my north in the far east. Thats a very big province, perfect landing grounds if these men with different faces do infact arrive.

*stands up bows*

Do you have any questions?

[The_Emperor]

*The spectre of Emperor Manuel I appears in a vision*

There is a great threat comming from the east, one greater than the Muslim infidels ever were. Everything we have fought for is in peril... I know you are aware of this, Have you made preparations to meet it? The years after 1230 will be dark for this is when the horde arrives in Khazar.

And don't forget to paint your servents blue Muahaha

*The vision fades*

[MiniKiller]

*waks up from dream in shock*
*looks around*

Wow, I just had a vision...if this is true then..then we need to begin my troop deployment east, I just hope the Hugarians do not attack us, fighting on 3 fronts is sure disaster. I must quickly get back to bed before anyone wonders why I am up and in a sweat.

*gets back into bed, doesnt sleep, thinks of plans all night*

[Yoko Kono]

any updates?

[MiniKiller]

Yup, I'll be done with my rein tomorow. Sory I"ve been so slow, had alot on my plate recently and there is a girl involved http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif so ya lol.

Its now been 10 years since I took my oath to you all. I've begun developing men to the east and to my suprise at otter disguest we've been attacked by the Hungarians. The same Hungarains who stated only 3 years ago they they have no plans to attack us. WE are now fighting on 3 fronts, though the Germans have not attacked in 6 years. This is going to be my test as the lord requests it. I will survive

[Mount Suribachi]

May I just say how happy I am that minikiller, after being frustratingly unable to get his name posted 1st, then couldn't get the game to work, is now playing it http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[jLan]

Yes, it's nice... now if only he could hurry up a bit http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif

[MiniKiller]

O'll be done today.

Hey now, lol you try to juggle work, hockey, and a girl (which is very hot and the best person every) in a week. lol

Here is an example of my typical 17 year old day

Wake up 9 go to work 10 30-7 hockey games 8 or 9 (weekends at noon, work after games on weekend) then call Mellisa and talk for 2 hours (which I might add is the best part of my day http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif)

Then what? Sleep, lol but shes on vacation so I can now devout 2 hours tonight to MTW http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[jLan]

You try to juggle umm sleep and ehh.. work once a week and uh going to the gym and friends errm... Yeah, try that http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Okay okay so it isnt as hectic http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

[MiniKiller]

lol friends, I forgot to mention them and the once a week paintballing trip we do.

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

[MiniKiller]

Um I hate to be a bother again but I seem to be having a problemo.

Hungarians attack Serbia, and an Enlglish crusdae goes into Morocco. They retreat everytime and everytime when the messege comes up that they are deciding they can not win the game boots me to desktop. There is a long pause and I get booted, what in the name is going on.

Oh ya and it lets me click the check button but then freeze and boots me.

[Demon of Light]

How many times has it happened?

[MiniKiller]

8, I reloaded a save from 2 years earlier and all is well I have 3 years left in my rein. The other file, the one that boots me still does but owell I just reverted to a previous save and again have 3 years left in my rein.

[Yoko Kono]

by my reckoning the next emperor or his son will face the golden hordes then
i wonder who will be brave enough to try

[The_Emperor]

Quote[/b] (Yoko Kono @ July 28 2003,19:21)]by my reckoning the next emperor or his son will face the golden hordes then
i wonder who will be brave enough to try
I was wondering that myself...

Ok whoever fights the Mongols we want a full and detailed account complete with Pictures I want to see the war against the new threat in all its glory http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[DemonArchangel]

Yea, all 5 hours of it.... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/tongue.gif

[MiniKiller]

My rein is complete I will post a full write up of my rein when I get home (tonight in about 3 hours time) and will also email the new person their file. I'm thowing in a twist however. Instead of just posting first u also have to post the date I took over, that means re-reading alot of these posts http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif good luck.

[Demon of Light]

Still there MiniKiller? Happy to see that you solved the problem. I look forward to your post. Also, could you senf the game to albertmaldonado@yahoo.com ? the other email is getting full.

[jLan]

You recieved the file July 19 2003,05:37.

Me next http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

infinite@sb-bt.com

[MiniKiller]

Quote[/b] ]I'm thowing in a twist however. Instead of just posting first u also have to post the date I took over, that means re-reading alot of these posts good luck.


Muwhahahaha *cough cough* muwhahaha http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

Soon as someone gets the correct answer the file will be mailed to the new user and Demon of Light. You will also be granted the ability to read my write up which is typed up in word, just waiting to be copy/pasted here http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

*continues evil laugh*

[Casca]

Mini-killer You took the throne in 1180. You were 29 years old.

I want the game. chicoscout69@hotmail.com

[Casca]

Quote[/b] (MiniKiller @ July 19 2003,20:16)]*second edit*

I got it, downloaded winrar and transfered it to my comp with MTW Next post (soon or Sunday morning) Will be my kings inagual address complete with plans, provinces, other nations etc.
Alternatively, if Jlan was on the right track with his answer, I submit this as the date you received the game. ( I'm covering my bets)

(JLan was using a date and time that corrosponded to your announcement of receiving the game but didn't take into account your problems with Winrar)

[Casca]

You could also be talking about the date for when Nicephorus IV addressed everyone. That is : July 21 2003,15:46


You also might be referring to the date for when your messenger announced that Nicephorus IV would address us. That was: July 21 2003,12:18

[Cazbol]

The successors shouldn't have to enter a quizshow to continue with the campaign.

[MiniKiller]

Why not? I am the Emporer. muwuahahah Its all urs Casca.

I did this to be more fair then being lucky u know? Anyway I'll send the file soon as I write up my farewell speech which will be soon.

*edit* I wasnt to clear however with my question was i? I meant the date and my age 1180 29yrs srry for any mix up.

[MiniKiller]

*The file is to big for the floppy"

How did u zip it to winrar? I need to tranfser it from computers like i did to play. so the file shouldntbe to large.

[Casca]

Yay I won

I do however feel like an usurper (there are wispers of some who would support a coup in favor of the rival claimant to the throne). Therefore in the interest of peace and stability, as my first act as Emperor, I formaly designate jLan as my heir and successor. May both our reigns add to the glory of the East Roman Empire

PS: Please send game in WinZip Form

[Cazbol]

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

[jLan]

Thank you Casca http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

I petition that Minikiller be punished for his unclear formulation of the question http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif 5 whippings will do http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Sainika]

I'm still waiting for the show "The Mongols: ass-kickers or ass-kicked" http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[TheSilverKnight]

I really love these campaigns. But I never thought of joining one. Would be cool. But I don't know if I should. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif I was thinking of starting one, but I never got around to it. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif

[Yoko Kono]

Quote[/b] (MiniKiller @ July 29 2003,15:50)]*The file is to big for the floppy"

How did u zip it to winrar? I need to tranfser it from computers like i did to play. so the file shouldntbe to large.
im assuming winrar is installed on your pc
right click on the game game file and select add to save_game_name.rar, this should make it an email friendly 500k or so, most mailboxes can handle at least 1mb files
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[MiniKiller]

Ok thanks I'll try that right now, the prob is I need to transfer it from a floppy to my other pc (the internet one, which is this one lol) to send it. Hope fully it will work.

*Edit* All right it worked I apoligize for the length of time it took but I am going to email the file now. I'll type of my rein tomorow, its late here and south park is on lol.

[Casca]

I have recieved the file and begun my reign. I await word of my father's reign.

[jLan]

Don't take a week playing like Minikiller did :P I'm heading off on sunday or monday..

[MiniKiller]

I'm sorry guys I would love to write out a big grand lecture on how i did, u know like how i opened up my rein but i cant, i dunno i just seem so tired lately, i feel just idunno but in short I took over all but 1 province of the hungarains becasue they attacked me. Took over 3 provinces for the almohads, um germans are destroying all my ships, and are started to attack my ceneter rein oh ya and i held back 2 crusades (1 still there but weak) to constantinopel.

[Demon of Light]

O.K

I hope Minikiller can give us more later. Couple of things to address:

First, there is now a new rule. No more quizzing potential monarchs. I can appreciate Mini-Killer's motives for doing it but the unfortunate victem in this was Jlan. He certainly went back through the posts and came up with an answer. Unfortunately, he answered the wrong question. Herein lies part of the problem; it is more than possible to ask an unclear question. Then what? I already decided to let this continue simply because I did not forbid it before but I do so now. Too many potential problems. Again, I appreciate Mini-Killer's motives but I know how easily this could have blown up if Jlan had been less calm (Thanks Jlan).

Bringing me to my next point. Casca's idea is acceptable to me. (he actually hit upon my idea for the next game)I'll happily make an exception to my list rule (this once though) and have Jlan play next reign.

Jlan: you mentioned that you leave Sunday or Monday. When do you return? Casca will take a while to finish so it probably won't be a problem to hold up until you return. Just let me know how long. If you say nothing though, I'll not hold it for you. That would be too open ended. Answer some time before Casca finishes.

[jLan]

I will probably be gone for about 1 week, a few days more or less...

[Casca]

The funeral procession for Nicephorus IV was truly an impressive one. Throngs of people lined both sides of the streets from the Gate of Charisius to the Church of the Holy Apostles in order to wish their late leader goodbye. The new emperor Manuel II led the procession. He walked next to his father's rider less horse, gently leading the great beast towards what was soon to be his father's last resting place. It was a good move he thought. This was the first time that his people were really going to see him, and Manuel felt that he needed to make a good impression. It was also his way of sending a message. "I know I have my faults" he wanted to tell them, "But I am not haughty or proud, I am a serious individual and I intend to lead by example" Manuel winced when he thought about his faults and the image of him as a prince. Though his regiment of horse knew him to be a natural leader with a talent for administration, the more popular version of him was that of an unscrupulous womanizer whose appetite respected neither class nor the vows of marriage. It was true that he liked women but he could not help it. He was young, witty, handsome, and the heir to an empire. Women could not help but be flattered by his attentions. To Manuel it was all like a grand hunt, the more elusive his quarry, the harder he chased. "Perhaps I went too far" he thought. He was after all twenty-seven now and still unmarried. He had a dynasty to continue and instead of flattered women now cringed when they heard of his romps around the palace. Deep down inside, and though it pained him to admit it, Manuel still remembered why it had all begun. Nicephorus IV had been considered a good ruler, but Manuel had never considered him a good father. Indifferent and callus, Manuel had thought him to be about as warm as a cold fish. All he had ever wanted was his father's attention; barring that just attention it did'nt matter if it was good or bad. But it had always been the same with his father. "I'm busy right now boy, these men are important and you have to go now" . Manuel closed his eyes and silently cursed his father. Too busy? he thought, I'm your son, your heir, tell me what to do....teach me. How am I going to be a good ruler if you don't show me how? Manuel had always worried about this. He had felt the burden of responsibility before it was really his. And now.....now it was too late and he was emperor. "All I know I've learned from the army" he thought. “But that's fine, I'll run this place like an army, and if people don't like it they can bloody well go to hell'. A small smile crept across Manuel's face, he knew what he had to do.

[Demon of Light]

I'll be out from Aug. 5 to Aug. 12. As Casca is the current Emperor, during my abscence (assuming I don't find an Internet connection while I'm in Chattanooga) assume that he speaks with my voice.

[jLan]

Change of plans, won't leave after all.

[ShadesWolf]

I have moved this to the story telling/ PBM forum