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KukriKhan
05-25-2003, 14:04
Anyone up for a new Play-By-Email Campaign? How about the Almo's?

The concept is simple: you receive a partially-done campaign; you play the campaign until you (the Khalifah) dies; you email that saveGame to me; I email it to the next player in line; you write a narrative summary of your Khalifah's life, with pictures.

To participate, you need:
1) MTW (with patch 1.1, available here: http://www.totalwar.org/Downloads/MTW/Patches.shtml ) not Viking Invasion which has its own thread.
2) WinZip (available here: http://www.winzip.com/ ) or WinRar (available here: http://www.rarlab.com/ )
3) A working email address that can accept files up to 1.5 MB
4) Time to play anywhere from 2 to 70 turns/years of your Khalifah's life

Rules:
1) I'll be the hub. I pass the game to you. When you finish, send the game to me; I pass to the next guy.
2) Report here, in this thread, when you've sent or received the game, so we know it's alive. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
3) Take screenshots during the course of your reign (press your F2 key). This helps the reader's understanding. (I'll host your screenshots, if you cannot). jim@jimcee.com
4) Your summary can take any form (extra points for creativity), but must be written and posted here (in this thread) within 72 hours of the death of your Khalifah.

Cautions:
1) If you do not report receipt of the game within 24 hours, I pass it to the next player, assuming email failed, and you go to the end of the line.
2) If you do not report your status (still playing, studying-then playing, etc), after receiving the game, within 48 hours, I pass it to the next player - assuming your g/f's uncle's cat died, or something.
3) If you post no summary of your reign within 72 hours of your Khalifah's death, I'll write it for you, based on your saveGame file, and assume you've spilt Coca-Cola on your keyboard.

So: takers? Who wants to begin the Almohad dynasty?

Starting position: Year 1087. Expert. Total Domination. First Ruler: Kalifah Yusuf I. Your neutral neighbors are Spain, to the north, and Egypt on your eastern flank.

https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/1087Almo.jpg

https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/Yusuf.jpg

Post your name & email address below if you want to play (I won't play, unless the campaign stalls).

Once we're underway, I'll upload our screenies & narratives to a website, for all to view.

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
05-25-2003, 16:09
I'm in, KukriKhan. Do I start the new game?

KukriKhan
05-25-2003, 17:08
Good, Skie Mirror Silvanoshei, you get the start.

I'll zip and email the startGame file to you (so I can keep pristine copies of each reign, in case something flubs up later).

ChaosLord
05-25-2003, 17:15
I'm in, haven't really played Muslim factions so this should be a nice change of pace.

Should we save replays of major battles as well? They aren't that big and its always nice to see how other people play.

Monk
05-25-2003, 17:16
count me in aswell, ive spent some time playing the muslim factions so im pretty good with them. should prove to be fun.

KukriKhan
05-25-2003, 17:23
Good idea, ChaosLord, I hadn't thought of that. Please do save replays of major battles.

So the list currently stands as:

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei (current player - Yusuf I)
ChaosLord
Monk

To all: good hunting http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Shahed
05-25-2003, 18:14
I'm in. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif You have my email from below link Kukri.

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
05-25-2003, 19:49
Game recieved, Kukri.

sprucemoose
05-25-2003, 20:15
count me in to matey

emails removed by Kukri

KukriKhan
05-25-2003, 20:16
Quote[/b] (Skie Mirror Silvanoshei @ May 25 2003,11:49)]Game recieved, Kukri.
Sweet. So far, so good, with this system.

Current list is:

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei (current player - Yusuf I)
ChaosLord
Monk
SeljukSinan
sprucemoose

Cazbol
05-26-2003, 08:01
I would like to have a go.

The email is: removed by Kukri

I'm playing the Egyptians at the moment, and find that I'm bad at leading the lightly armed forces of the muslims, but I try to make up for it through other means.

By the way, what difficulty level are we playing at?

Shahed
05-26-2003, 10:41
Quote[/b] ]SeljukSinan (OK to publish your email?)



Btw Kukri, if there is any problem with that one, I have another on which I can take upto 4MEG emails:



I prefer to use hotmail as I can access this one from anywhere, and that's the one everyone uses.

Look forward to the reign of my king. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

Kukri wiped the email addee's

KukriKhan
05-26-2003, 13:47
Welcome, Cazbol: setting is EXPERT, Total Domination.

SeljukSinan thanks. The files shouldn't get much over 1MB when zipped.

The list then:

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei (current player - Yusuf I)
ChaosLord
Monk
SeljukSinan
sprucemoose
Cazbol
Rising Sun

Kukri cleared email's & added a player.

Shahed
05-26-2003, 16:05
Should each player set up a description of his King's caracter and what his reign will be like before playing ?

This could make it more interesting, and give the subsequent players something to plan on.

RisingSun
05-26-2003, 16:44
AOL doesn't have problems recieving the saves normally does it? Anyways, I'm in.

Kukri edited out the email add.

Cazbol
05-26-2003, 17:25
Oh dear, KukriKhan.

Could I ask you to edit out my unaltered email address in the list of players. After all, the files are sent by you and go back to you again, so it's not really necessary to display the email adresses for all to see. It's just my spammophobia speaking. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

KukriKhan
05-26-2003, 17:44
Cazbol excellent point. Since I'm playing Almo Central, there's no need. New players: After you've left your volunteering message, I'll be editing out your email addee's, once I've collected them.

Rising Sun no reported AOL problems that I am aware of, so far.

SeljukSinan: interesting suggestion. I have to give it more thought & get some more info; for example: are successor Kaliphas' names pre-set? If so, we could assign your prospective Kalipha's name ahead of time. Would introduce a more RPG element to this project. I'd be interested in opinions from other players.

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
05-26-2003, 19:16
Kukri, I can't play the savegame. Did you start the game with VI? If so, I believe that is why.

KukriKhan
05-26-2003, 21:43
Actually, I started it with MTW v1.1, hoping folks with 1.1 & 2.0 (VI) could play.

You unzipped it & placed it in the MTW SaveGames folder?

And it doesn't appear in your list of saved games when you click Load Game?

Or does it just not load?

Sorry for all the questions...please explain what happens.

Demon of Light
05-26-2003, 22:25
If Skie Mirror Silvanoshei can't receive a save game, it still may be possible for him send them to others. If this is the case, perhaps he can simply start the game himself and send it to you. The position at which the game starts for him on his computer is not going to be any different from the position in which it starts on your computer.

KukriKhan
05-26-2003, 22:48
Quote[/b] (KukriKhan @ May 26 2003,13:43)]Actually, I started it with MTW v1.1, hoping folks with 1.1 & 2.0 (VI) could play.

You unzipped it & placed it in the MTW SaveGames folder?

And it doesn't appear in your list of saved games when you click Load Game?

Or does it just not load?

Sorry for all the questions...please explain what happens.
Or, as Demon of Light helpfully suggests (thanks, DoL): start the game yourself, using EXPERT and TOTAL DOMINATION. When done, send the game to me jim@jimcee.com

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
05-27-2003, 00:33
Good idea, Demon of Light. Kukri, I did all those things and it just wouldn't load.

Shahed
05-27-2003, 10:43
I'm sorry I did not state this earlier. I had assumed the game would be VI.

As there are many new adjustments and improvements to the game in VI, I'm only interested in participating if the game is in VI.

Unfortunately, MTW 1.1 in SP is much better than 1.1. I am playing some other games at the moment too, and have limited time. I'd hate to commit to anything I feel I could have enjoyed more.

Do we all have VI ?
Can we play the game in VI ?

We have sorter lists, unit adjustmenst, and of course as we know the Almos, have Faris & Arab Infantry in VI as well.

The merits of playing the game in VI outweigh those of 1.1.

*bows*

Cazbol
05-27-2003, 13:10
I don't have VI but I could buy it through the internet. However the 56 year old bug introduced in VI doesn't sound like an improvement and in my view some fancy new units don't compensate for such an anomaly. I suggest we stick to MTW 1.1, at least unless they fix the 56 year old bug today.

Alrowan
05-27-2003, 13:27
im in

Shahed
05-27-2003, 13:29
Overall, SP in V2.0 is by far better, even with remaining bugs, than V1.1. This is my view, for the reasons stated above.

Now I only take the decision, for myself, and offer the suggestion that we should play in V2.0. Of course if you guys disagree, and choose V1.1, that's entirely your choice, and causes no trouble for me.

I can always join you in other posts here, and look forward to reading about your Khaliphate.

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

KukriKhan
05-27-2003, 14:17
Very well, then. I have VI, and I have MTW 1.1 separately installed. I (incorrectly, it seems) assumed that VI would be backwards-compatible with v1.1, enabling players with either version to participate in this project.

This error on my part therefore requires a show of hands from the volunteer players:

1) who has MTW 1.1 & who has only Viking Invasion?

2) those with only VI: should we start a separate VI campaign? I'll gladly admin that one as well.

p.s. I appreciate your candid input SeljukSinan http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

edit: once all have weighed in with their versions and opinions, I'll establish the new list of successors.

Shahed
05-27-2003, 17:04
My pleasure. As you gather I am in for a V2.0 campaign.

Monk
05-27-2003, 17:11
v2.0 sp sounds alote better do to the bug fixes. so i guess im in for that to.

but ill play v1.1 if thats what everybody wants

Demon of Light
05-27-2003, 18:25
Quote[/b] (Cazbol @ May 27 2003,05:10)]I don't have VI but I could buy it through the internet. However the 56 year old bug introduced in VI doesn't sound like an improvement and in my view some fancy new units don't compensate for such an anomaly. I suggest we stick to MTW 1.1, at least unless they fix the 56 year old bug today.
I concur. Constantly having your king die at 56 introduces the very real possibility that the game will end prematurely due to an heir failing to mature before his father or uncle dies. This age bug will also curtail the playing time of all the people here and lend a certain inevitability to the when the game will end (My king is 53. I guess I need to hurry up and _). One of the attractions of this idea is that things are left unfinished from king to king and that we don't know when we will die. Continueing with this bug, we'll all know how long we will reign for and we'd be hard pressed not to plan accordingly.

ChaosLord
05-27-2003, 18:53
I've got VI installed right now, but I figured I was going to have to do another install of regular M:TW with 1.1 anyway. So I can play either. With the addons to 2.0 SP is improved some, but that death at 56 bug would kill some of the fun in our game. So i'll play in either, but prefer 1.1.

FesterShinetop
05-27-2003, 19:41
This sounds like fun. I don't have VI (yet) so I am in for the 1.1 game.

RisingSun
05-27-2003, 22:24
I don't have VI either, so I would have t do the 1.1 campaign, and the 56 bug would kill a lot of fun, because you would always know when your king will die, and will stop the spontaneity that (IMO) makes it more fun.

Maniac
05-28-2003, 17:18
I join as well. I haven't yet had time to try out the expnasion but I have it. With all the new features it would be fun but I guess it doesn't outweigh the 56 year bug...Well I am equally interested in both versions and can play each.

maniakas@mail.lt (the spam can't get worse anyway for me, http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif )

Mount Suribachi
05-28-2003, 20:23
Well, IMO VI really adds a lot to SP...and I've not really noticed the 56 year bug much - killed a few Kings in combat, oops

Anyways, if you guys decide on VI then I'm in. If you go 1.1 then I'll pass.

KukriKhan
05-29-2003, 10:37
Great, guys; thanks for weighing in.

From the responses, we have:

Player
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei 1.1
ChaosLord 1.1 & 2.0
Monk 1.1 & 2.0
SeljukSinan 2.0
sprucemoose ?
Cazbol 1.1
RisingSun 1.1
Alrowan ?
Apache 1.1
Maniac 1.1 & 2.0
Mount Suribachi 2.0

So we have enough input to conclude that interest exists for Play-By-Email Almohad Campaigns for both versions.

I'll start another thread to run a V.I. campaign, extracting and listing those who prefer 2.0 or either, and we'll keep this thread strictly for the 1.1 campaign. That successor list reads:

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei (current Kalipha)
ChaosLord
Monk
sprucemoose
Cazbol
RisingSun
Alrowan
Apache
Maniac

FesterShinetop
05-29-2003, 13:34
Great, so is Skrie actually playing yet? Or are things still in planning fase?

This play reminds me a bit of the Sim City 4 online MP, simcityscape. Maybe a good idea to check that one out Kukri. There might be a possibility to post the save games on a website, so the ones that want to play can get them from there, after which that saved game is blocked until the player puts the file back again (within a time limit). Maybe a nice idea for the Org as an extra service? (just brainstorming here, so don't shoot me please and don't send burning pigs at me... yikes)

Edited: typos

KukriKhan
05-29-2003, 13:46
Thanks for the tip Apache, I'll check it out. I have web space available (my own, not the Org's) that I'd planned to use for these campaigns...may be some possibilities there.

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei is due to give us an update report on his status here today. My original startGame wouldn't load on his machine, so he started his own on 26 May.

sprucemoose
05-29-2003, 16:44
lo

i have both but i would rather play the VI version.

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

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
05-29-2003, 17:47
OK, KK we now have a slight problem. I now only have VI. So what do I do now? Do I go ahead and start over with 2.0?

ChaosLord
05-29-2003, 18:36
Skie, the threads got split into a 1.1 campaign and a 2.0 campaign. This thread is the 1.1, and the 2.0 is in another. If you can't install another copy of M:TW for some reason to play 1.1, you coud join the other campaign. Theres no reason you can't be in both though as long as you've got the space for two installs.

KukriKhan
05-29-2003, 19:21
Chaos Lord, we await Skie Mirror Silvanoshei's decision on whether to relinquish his position on this campaign. (He's certainly welcome here; as you point out, he'll have to separately install MTW 1.1 to play here).

If he decides to relinquish, are you prepared to re-start the campaign?

ChaosLord
05-29-2003, 22:49
I'm prepared to start anytime, just need the go ahead if hes not going to be playing in this one.

KukriKhan
05-30-2003, 02:30
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei relinquished hia position, with a post in the 'other' thread.

So, ChaosLord, if you would please, start an Almohad campaign, EXPERT, Total Domination - and post here that you've begun.

ChaosLord
05-30-2003, 02:59
Alright i've got it started, were you still wanting the save of the first turn just for archiving purposes?

Edit- Sent the save.

KukriKhan
05-30-2003, 03:06
yes please jim@jimcee.com

ChaosLord
05-30-2003, 22:11
Alright, finished my reign. Not too eventful, think I probably took things too slowly but we're in a strong position. Should have my summary up tonight or tommorow morning.

KukriKhan: Sent the end of reign save to you.

Monk
05-31-2003, 03:05
i think im still on this list... oh well i guess ill find out in a few days http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

EDIT: omg...my new avatar came http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/eek.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

KukriKhan
05-31-2003, 03:13
Good show ChaosLord. File received, checked, archived, zipped & mailed to Monk (yes. you're on both the 1.1 & 2.0 list).

Monk
05-31-2003, 03:16
thanks KK, i have recieved the savegame and will start on it Saturday (tomorrow). i should be done sometime then and will have my after action report by sunday. i bid you farewell untill then

ChaosLord
05-31-2003, 05:56
-An Alim under the service of the ill Khalifah Yusuf the I quickly travels to Cordoba, only a few days ahead of his death. He has been tasked with telling Prince Yusuf and handling the last matters of Khalifah Yusuf the I's reign, the succession.-

I am Alim Omar ibn Yaqub, your father apointed me at the start of his reign to record it and to relay his last messages while awaiting the German Crusaders in Valencia. First, I have been requested to describe his reign so that it might be fresh in your mind as you begin to rule as the next Khalifah...

1087 - 1089 The first years of the Khalifah's reign are spent visiting the newly apointed Amirs and strengthing the loyalty of the people. With the rise of Christianity in Spain and infamous El Cid a massive troop buildup begins as well.

1090 - Prince Yusuf comes of age in 1090, the oldest son and a fine warrior, his skills in battle and tactics are already being praised, he shall do well. Proposals for expanding our farming and mining within our provinces are prepared by the recently apointed Qadi al'Quda, also the Amir of Morroco.

1091 - His second son, Prince Ali comes of age in 1091, a match for the older in battle and skills in warfare perhaps rivalring the Khalifah himself. The Generals see much promise by him and have started teaching him the finer points of
warfare.

1092 - 1093 - The training of the army goes well and we now have quite a force under our control. The time to expand is now, so says the Khalifah. Maps of Valencia are brought in and an attack planned out. Prince Ali is sent northwards to Valencia in the first move against the Spanish King, he leads 3 full units of (Almohad) Urban Militia, and 3 full units of Desert Archers.

1094 - The battle is stunning success, the Spanish foolishly try to defend a river with two bridges. Torn between which to defend the Spanish general could only watch helpless as the Urban Militia stormed across the bridge and into the lone unit of Spearmen guarding it. The spearmen were easily defeated getting the hard part out of the way, after that the Prince himself lead the charge into the enemy ranks disorienting them. The Urban Militia easily outmatched the garrison the Spanish fielded.

In the end over 200 Spanish were killed, another hundred captured, with only a few dozen Almohad deaths, Prince Ali's skill as an attacker was praised by the men he commanded. But the aftermath presents a problem as the newly conquered lands are rebellious, after losing the infamous El Cid when the Spanish annexed them they aren't ready to accept a new ruler, much less a muslim one. Troops are shifted around in hopes of preventing it and a ruthless man, the leader of a group of Urban Militia is apointed to rule Valencia in the meanwhile.

(Replay of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/ValenciaAttack.mrp) - Result of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/valenciaattack.jpg))

1095 - Prince Idris came of age this year, a talented military tactician and a skilled swordsmen, the Almohad line is truely bless by Allah. The Spanish launch a 'Crusade to free the Christians'. It gains support and crosses over into Cordoba, which is its Church-sanctioned goal.

1096 - Faced with the hardened garrison under the command of the Khalifah himself the cowardly Spanish retreat, any thoughts of holy causes gone before an arrow could be fired.

1097 - Spurned forward by the Pope and his Bishop lackeys the Crusade once more marches into Cordoba... and again turns about and flees before a bow is fired. Enterprising Sicilian merchants have begun to set shops up along the border. The popular saying that while they may not have faith, they've got plenty of florins...

1098 - The Spanish King Alfonso the I invades Portugual, the battle is easily won but the peoples hearts are not. Unless he can find a ruthless man to tame the masses rebellion is inevitable. The Crusade also came to the border to stare at our army again, the Khalifah sent them a courier with a map, incase they kept getting lost.

1099 - A large army of rebels, an army that could even put up a fight against the Khalifah's own army if only by numbers rather then skill arises in Portugual to throw out the Spanish. As was expected the Crusade came again to the border of Cordoba and Castile, once more it turned around. Merchants from as far as Byzantine are coming now to collect on the folley that is underway, though the men are starting to lose heart and its numbers dwindle.

1100 - With a solid hold on the land and a steady income taxes are allowed to be reduced to further gain the lasting support of the populence, the Spanish to the north are watched warily but still lose heart again. We have also begun recruiting skilled Horsemen from the Sahara, they Khalifah hopes to use them as a counter to the Jinettes and as a fast light cavalary.

1101 - The Italians reconizing the power of the Caliphate as well as the humilition and defeat the Spanish will soon suffer at a failed Crusade decide to offer an Alliance with us. We accept after a little consideration and talk of opening lucrative trade routes.

Watchmen have been posted along the border incase the Crusade actually gets enough courage, but it seems unlikely as their numbers continue to dwindle steadily.

1102 - 1103 - The Cruaders continue to lose heart these years are quiet. Building projects continue and many who might have doubted the Khalifah before now speak of the work hes done for them. Many farms have sprung up, as well as lucrative gold and silver mining, creating much prosperity for the people even during a time of war. Prince Ibrahim comes of age in 1103, though not a skilled a warrior as his brothers he still possess a sound mind for military matters.

1104 - A quiet year besides for the usual meeting of the Crusade. Its started to become tradition now for newly trained warriors to face off the crusade. It as grown quite popular among the men with the recent surge in recruiting, they're all eager to take to fight to the Spanish rather then sit waiting for them to find their courage.

1105 - The invasion of Castile is finally launched, with Prince Ali at its head and Prince Yusuf by his side. With 5 full units of Urban Militia and Desert Archers each it is a match for any Spanish army, the recent addition of Nubian Spearmen and Saharan Cavalry only makes it even more potent.

1106 - The cowards predictably flee before our army, only a couple hundred men sit in the fort they call 'Toledo Castle'. The crusade also broke up with the seize of Castile, it seems those that were left drifted back into their army. We are preparing to finish them off by assaulting the fort then moving on to the last Spanish held province of Leon.

1107 - The assault takes place on a sunny afternoon with little wind, while it aids the enemy archers it does little to change the outcome of the battle. Urban Militia storm the forts walls and easily defeat the garrison, in the end nearly 200 Spanish are dead, and again only a few dozen Almohads. Prince Ali's skill as an attacker showing itself again.

(Replay of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/SiegeofToledoCastle.mrp) - Result of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/toledocastleassault.jpg))

After this latest victory Byzantine itself wishes to be our allies and we are happy to accept. If we can get the Sicilians on our side as well our trade routes will be all but secured once they are begun.

The Spanish have not been idle during this time however, they've spean the last few years coercing and bribing various Portuguese nobles and have persuaded a large number of them over to their side. We will have to wait and see if its enough to retake the province or if they will try to use them against us.

1108 - The Spanish launch an attack on Cordoba, foolishly it is the King Alfonso the I himself with only 700 men. The battle took place on a slight rise and went well until the charge of the Knights of Santiago. To keep the line steady the Khalifah sent his son Prince Ibrahim to charge battle them. The Prince succeeded in driving them off, routing the cowards like they deserved. But while persuing was thrown from his horse and killed, a sad end for such a mighty warrior. Most of the Spanish army was routed or killed but the Alfonso the I fought on, finally when faced with the Khalifah in battle he fled, showing he was as much a coward as his men. In the end around 400 Spanish die, 200 more are captured and executed. Sadly once more over 300 Almohads die. With the death of his son and his men the Khalifah is filled with anger and vows revenge apon the Spanish.

(Replay of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/DefenseofCordoba.mrp) - Result of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/cordboadefense.jpg))

In other happenings the Spanish manage to win Portugual and look like they might be able to hold it this time. The Khalifah decides to hold off any further attacks on the Spanish while he strengthens his forces so they can be dealt with decisively.

1109 - The Spanish invade Cordoba and Castile perhaps emboldended by the victory in Portugual and losses inflicted on us in Cordoba. However it seems the spirit of their cowardly King has infected them all, both armys flee before fighting.

1110 - Betrayal Those who we thought were on good terms with us launch a suprise attack on Valencia. The Aragonese King himself leads the attack with around 600 men at his side veruses our 300. Luckily we are warned ahead of time and we take position at the bridge crossing the river that borders our two provinces. Urban Militia holds the bridge while the desert archers take a deadly toll on the troops trying to cross. In the end over 200 Aragonese die to archer fire, with nearly 100 to the Militia, the Aragonese King himself among the ones they struck down. A little under 100 Almohads join them, not too heavy a price given the circumstances but revenge is in order. Betrayal will not be tolerated.

(Replay of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/ValenciaDefense.mrp) - Result of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/valenciadefense.jpg))

There is good news however, the Portuguese have once more rebelled and while King Alfonso the I himself was in the province, showing their contempt for him. The army is mostly of foreign mercenaries this time rather then poorly trained peasants, hopefully they will keep control of their lands and force the Spanish into a corner where we can take care of the nuisance once and for all.

1111 - The Spanish were forced back in the battle for Portugual, the people claiming the lands as their own. The army is almost prepared to advance into Leon, to deal with the Spanish annoyance once and for all.

1112 - This year comes with a bit of good news as it marks the Spanish King Alfonso the I's demise, known as the Coward to the Almohads his Princes squabble over the succession and descend into civil war. The Khalifah decides to await the outcome of the battle and deal with whats left.

1113 - Prince Pedro supported by his brothers Sancho and Alfonso defeat there brother in battle and becomes King Pedro the I of Spain, if you can call the little land they rule a Kingdom. Most disturbing is reports that Pedro executed his rebellious brother himself, such barbarism. However in death he has served our cause and the Spanish are weakened, the army shall soon march in to crush the young King.

1114 - Any army over 2000 strong marches to Leon to do away with the Spanish, moral is high and victory is all but assured. Lead by Prince Ali the mixed army of Urban Militia, Desert Archers, and foreign mercenaries is a sight to behold. It is the largest army yet assembled by the Khalifah and a warning to those who would oppose us.

1115 - Prince Ali performs as expected when facing the cowardly Spanish. We quickly secure a hill and our desert archers rain death down apon them. A stroke of luck came when the Spanish king fell to an arrow, (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/spanishking.jpg) the fool still hadn't mustered the courage to charge our lines. After his death we marched forward and easily pushed them back. Once our veteran militia charged their lines broke and it was just a matter of mopping up any put up resistance.

The casualtys for the Spanish number 400 from the battle, and then the 500 captured who were executed. We suffered reasonable losses, only a little over 200 men. Among those executed were the last Princes of the Spanish, sealing their fate. We now sit outside the fort named Leon Castle, it should fall within the next year or so.

(Replay of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/LeonAttack.mrp) - Result of Battle (http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/leonattack.jpg))

With this battle won we are well on the way of uniting the land, only the independant provinces of Portugual and Navarre remains, besides for the treacherous Kingdom of Aragon.

1116 - The siege of Leon Castle continues as the Khalifahs armys are reorganized. We also send an emissary to request alliance of the Egyptians once more. Surely this time they will see the light. Preparations also begin for what to do about Portugual, Navarre, and Aragon.

1117 - Leon Castle falls and a garrison is formed to prevent any rebellions, the rest of the army regroups to face a new threat form the north. The Holy Roman Empire declared a Crusade and marches towards our lands, they too want Cordoba like the foolish Spanish before them. Our army gathers in Castile and Valencia preparing to face them. The arrogant Egyptians

still refuse our offers, the Sultan even had the nerve to refuse to see the emissary. Rather then waste further time the emissary takes a ship to southren France to keep track of the crusade.

1118 - The Khalifah himself goes to defend Valencia while Prince Ali defends Castile. The emissary in Touluse reports the crusade has just entered those lands and are preparing to march southwards into Aragon. It is estimated to be a little under 1000 strong with some hardended troops but mostly fanatical peasants.

Though embroiled in a new war the Khalifah starts a project of building docks and setting up trading posts, hoping to establish a trade empire or at least build the foundation for his sons.

1119 - The German Crusade enters Aragon and gains much support from the nobilty and peasants alike, knowing it would only be time until we destroyed them. Their numbers are estimated be nearly 1400 now, with more soldiers seeking glory rather then peasants. But we've had time to prepare, the garrisons in Valencia and Castile are strong enough to face the army and the now almost 70 year old Khalifah prepares to fight another battle.

1120 - The Khalifah dies before having a chance at battle, though he does agree to an alliance from the Hungarians a month before he falls ill. His oldest son Prince Yusuf, now Khalifah Yusuf the II takes over. Hes is 46 but still in fine shape, his tactical skills are a match for his brothers and he is quite fearsome in battle.

-And that is the end of your fathers reign, as you now know. Besides for the written history which I now present he also requested me to tell you his last advice and requests.-

Son, my doctors till me I won't live to see the next sunrise so I must be quick about this. We stand poised to unite Spain under Almohad rule, to spread Islam and prosper. This was my goal during my reign, to unite Spain while not overextending ourselves, alas I am forced to depart before I can unite the land, but you have a strong foundation to use. Our lands are rich and trade with in the Mediteraenen can soon become a reality. However we are still faced with threats, to the north greed filled 'Christians' launch 'Crusades' against us in an attempt to take our land. Be have faith, Allah is with us and our armies are mighty. Perhaps someday it will be us spreading Islam to them. However to the east the Egyptians still refuse all attempts at alliances, I know not wether they are just arrogant or plan something darker. The desert lands we hold near them are bare and provide no gain for any attack I would not let your guard down.

In our own lands loyalty is strong for the most part, some peasants may complain about the taxes but they've seen what happens to rebellions and the propserity we have experienced recently. Still, you should rule with an iron fist and not a silken glove, to not do so would invite the same fate as the Almoravids. I have faith in you my son and know I leave this world with the Caliphate in good hands.

-Khalifah Yusuf the I

The status of the Almohad Caliphate and World at the end of Khalifah Yusuf the I's reign.
http://pages.sbcglobal.net/chaoslord/endofreign.jpg

ChaosLord
05-31-2003, 05:58
Hmm, that looked alot shorter in notepad. Anyway its as i've said, a mostly unevental reign. I'm usually a pretty slow player, taking the last 3 provinces to unite Spain should be easy. I didn't post a picture for my Khalifah since it was the same one in the beginning. I can see why Almohad's are considered easier though, do they always get such good heirs? Maybe its just Europes genepools or something.

Edit - Oh yeah, try not to point out the many small errors i've got in there, think I got most of the obvious ones but I have a habbit of scanning over things i've wrote and easily missing it. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

FesterShinetop
05-31-2003, 09:33
Great work Chaoslord. Nice writing Did you take notes while playing??

Cazbol
05-31-2003, 10:11
Excellent writeup. Very lively and entertaining.

KukriKhan
05-31-2003, 12:23
Outstanding work ChaosLord. For never having played the Almo's before, you nevertheless skillfully exploited their strengths (I had to laugh seeing 2 Viking units in your Leon army - presumeably merc's http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif good choice hiring pagans instead of christians).

Thankfully, since this is MTW 1.1, we should see more longish reigns like these, unhampered by the premature deaths of Khaliphas at age 56.

FesterShinetop
05-31-2003, 15:03
Oh, by the way; does it matter how you have your unit size configured? Or is this incorporated with the save game?

Monk
05-31-2003, 17:14
my reign is over. i only reigned for 11 years before my kaliphate died of an illness. ill write up the summery in a bit and ill send the screenshots of the game a bit later aswell. the map hasnt changed mush since chaos left it to me but i have fought many battles. may the next kaliphate have a longer life than i.

ChaosLord
05-31-2003, 18:11
Thanks everyone, yeah I did just take notes while playing. Then tried to make it look presentable.

I guess KK spoke too soon on the length of reigns, but I look forward to seeing your battles Monk.

And Apache, I think it might be incorporated into the save but you could set it to default before playing just in case.

Monk
05-31-2003, 18:31
Yusuf II heard the words of his father as they were read to him. he began to think of how he could equal to his greateness, already at the age of 46 he had spent the last half of his life serving his father. the next day his father had died, and Yusuf II was declared the new Khalifah. while campaigning in the North he contracted a deadly disease. consulting every doctor in the palace but to no avail he finaly accepted his fate, knowing his death was imminant he called his son Ismail to his side, the attended heir of the Almohad throne. (after a bit of back tracking i am confient he is my son)

My son Yusaf said as he laid his hand on Ismail's shoulder i have contracted a mysterious sickness...the docters cannot help me. Ismail listen as i tell you the events of the last 11 years.

https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/Yusuf2Monk.jpg

1120: your grandfather died and i accended to the throne, my first duty was to assec our situation. The Crusade in Aragon was gaining great influence in Europe and over 1400 soldiers had come to fight, however my father spent years preparing and it seemed it all paid off. intimidated by our numbers they refused to invade for years

1121: The Hungarians decided they would betray us and cancel our alliance, along with the world. i found it strange as to how the entire world would turn against us. it fealt as if Allah himself was threatening me, the only allies we have left are the italians and the French. These two factions seem to defy the pope at some turns, this may be of use to you.

1122: I noticed that to the east Egypt has grown strong, and they sit vast armies upon our borders. i issued that we build a Eastern defensive army,it numbers now at about 350 what you do with those men is your choice. although their number is small i trust you will add more to the defence, should the Egyptians break through there they could conquer all of Northern AFrica, be warey

1123: I invaded Navarre myself leading 800 of our troops to seize the land, we met little resistance, and all those doutbfull of my courage were showed that day, my father's fire burns inside me. 5 of my finest bodyguards fell in the battled along with 24 urban milita men. i will remember those warriors throught my life as they served me with honor.

1124: Finaly after waiting 4 years the Crusaders attacked out position in castile, one of my younger brothers repelled the invasion, using the high grounds of castile he was able to defeat the crusaders even after they adcanced 3 times, our arrow barroge and millitia strike was to great for them to turn back. however in the procces he lost 400 of our finest men. also that year i began building castles in castile and leon. they should be completed in your reign use them well

1125: Again the crusading Infidels invaded our lands. i myself traveled to castile and took over the defence, losing only 50 men we defeated them. using the same tactics that were used before we again repelled them with little trouble, the western world was shocked when they learded their crusade was stoped and could no longer fight well. merchants from sicily have shown a great interest in trading with us, i finished the trading posts my father started.

1126: The surviving Crusaders retreated to aragon, this time i ordered Prince Iridis to make a pre-emptive strike and defeat the Aragonese. facing both the remaining crusaders and the Calvary based aragon army, our brother performed greatly and defeated both armies. he showed no mercy to the king of aragon as he was cut down in the thick of battle, aswell as the remaining crusaders, no prisinors were taken. Aragon is ours now.

1128: with the spanards defeated i turned my attention to portugal, the rebellion that drove out the spanish years before still had controle of the provence. I took into consideration of their great numbers and began to gather the troops to invade, also i began building a navy in the east, 3 more ships are due for construction.

1129: There is no war in this year. it was this time that i started to feal the strength slowly drain from my body, i noticed that i was becoming deathly ill and i may not last more than 2 years. i searched for a way to escape death but i eventually realized that it was useless

1130: i decided for you to succed me Ismail, you skills in war are great, allah has bless u with sound mind, the only thing i worry about is your greed, you must cointrole it or else it will consume you. good Luck ismail, Ugh ....

With that Yusuf II died in his bed at the age of 57, it is now his succeser Khalifah Ismail's duty to lead the Almohad people. The reign was short but Yusuf did much to increase his kindom's rule. His only wish was to bring honor to his father...

The world i left behind
https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/EoRMiniMonk.jpg

EDIT: ive had the time (finaly) to write a bit more about my campaign. would have done this in the first place but i was in a hurry, now i feal this description does justice to Yusuf the II.

FesterShinetop
05-31-2003, 19:34
Quote[/b] (KukriKhan @ May 31 2003,12:23)]Thankfully, since this is MTW 1.1, we should see more longish reigns like these, unhampered by the premature deaths of Khaliphas at age 56.
Lol, you should have knocked on wood

Monk
05-31-2003, 19:48
heh i died so young, 11 years of rule isnt long after all http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif. anyway ive sent the savegame to KK the year is now 1131 and only portugal stands in the Khalifah's way of uniting spain

Demon of Light
05-31-2003, 21:53
How old is Ishmail?

Monk
05-31-2003, 22:18
25 i believe

Demon of Light
05-31-2003, 22:41
If that's the case, it may well be that Ishmail is Yusuf II's son. I took a look at Chaos Lord's reign and he recorded the birth of all Yusuf I's children. They were Yusuf (your monarch), Ali, Idris and Ibraham. Ibraham was the youngest and he died in battle. Unless Ali and Idris are dead as well, one of them would get the throne before their youngest brother. The ascending monarch to the throne will often come to office with his own family. I would guess that Ishmail is Yusuf II's son and that he was generated by the computer.

Monk
05-31-2003, 22:46
hmmm demon u may be right, i think Idris is still alive in Aragon leading the army there. however i didnt notice Ismail's birth so it may have happened while Yusuf I was khalifah (im thinking he was born at that time and came of age in the beginning of my campaign) cuz that makes sence.

EDIT: i just checked, and ur right demon, it seems i ovewr looked him coming of age in the years of my rule. i will edit the story to reflect this. shoudlnt take to long

KukriKhan
06-01-2003, 01:35
Quote[/b] (Apache @ May 31 2003,11:34)]
Quote[/b] (KukriKhan @ May 31 2003,12:23)]Thankfully, since this is MTW 1.1, we should see more longish reigns like these, unhampered by the premature deaths of Khaliphas at age 56.
Lol, you should have knocked on wood
No kidding. By 'longish' I didn't mean merely one year http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Sorry Monk. However, you've reinforced the solid foundation of your father during your short reign. Commendable

File received, checked, archived, zipped & mailed to Cozbol (sprucemoose opted out in favor of playing v2.0).

Monk: I'll get those screenies to you soonest.

Cazbol
06-01-2003, 08:01
File received and opened. I'll use all available time on it, but as I'm starting young, 25 years old, I probably will take a little longer than the two before me. I'll keep you posted regularly.

KukriKhan
06-01-2003, 14:43
Looks like a good place to re-post the list:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (current Khalipha, Ishmail)
RisingSun
Alrowan
Apache
Maniac
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei

edit: added SkieMS

FesterShinetop
06-01-2003, 18:00
Thanks Kukri, really appreciate the effort http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/flirt.gif

I just read through the first English play-by-mail campaign yesterday (totally missed it before http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/frown.gif ), very nice and some very well written stories. This is a very nice addition to an allready very nice game

So, Kukri, you're gonna put all stories and screenshots on your site so it's nice and clean?

KukriKhan
06-01-2003, 18:21
That's the plan, Stan http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Right now, it's just a holding pen for screenshots. After 2 more reigns, I plan to tidy up & make a linkable site, with pics & narratives.

FesterShinetop
06-01-2003, 18:36
Great SHould be real nice http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif
So we can still post the usual nonsense in this thread as well. As it became pretty unreadable in the thread on the English campaign with all stuff going on there http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif .

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
06-01-2003, 20:16
I'm in on this one again, KukriKhan. Apache, you should've just found the Glorious Reigns of the Kings of England thread by Demon of Light.


edit: added you to the list & subtracted your email

Cazbol
06-02-2003, 07:51
Kalipha Ismail who came to power at the age of 25 is now 70 years old, but still alive and kicking. I had to go to bed at around midnight, so I'll have to try to finish after work today.

The kalipha isn't known for his brilliance in waging wars but he's built up the land and the economy. There's currently a state of war with Egypt.

Monk
06-02-2003, 17:14
i knew that army i built up in the east would come in handy http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

Cazbol
06-02-2003, 20:15
Call me Ismail.

1131 I come to power following the death of my father Yusuf II. There is dire threat from the Egyptians who amass at my border. First order of business is therefore to improve defences at the Egyptian border. Other plans are to conquer Portugal, improve the economy and continue building the fleet that my father started.

1132 History shall remember me as Kalifah Ismail the retard. I'm responsible for the greatest military blunder in history. Seeing the mighty forces that my father had amassed for the invasion of Portugal I order an attack. Even though the enemy strength looked formidable I was under the impression that the Almohad urban militia under strong a strong general could prevail. Led by my brother, prince Umar, our troops advanced until in firing range. As our archers started firing the whole of the opposing force launced at us. To my horror our troops broke within seconds and ran for home, leaving prince Umar surrounded by Italian infantry and hobilars. My brother fought to the death defending his honor. As a result my only heir is now dead. Amazingly the enemy only lost 277 while we lost 1,097 To add insult to injury I then had to pay over 3,000 florins in ransom for captured troops. I am unfit to lead matters of war and will focus my reign on building the infrastructure of the kalifate.
1132 Portugal Replay (https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/Kalifah_Ismails_disaster_in_Portugal_1132.mrp) -
https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/IsmDefPrtg.jpg

1135 I have been blessed with a son. I have named him Yusuf after my father and grandfather, since their name is associated with glory while mine is a mark of shame. I hope he gets his mother's intelligence.

1138 I have a new son. I've named him Ali. Anything else than Ismail or Sue. Trying my hand at political intrigue rather than war, I sent my emissary to bribe the rebels in Portugal. The offer was refused and the rebel general has thus proven him to be a man of honor, making further attempts to bribe him very costly indeed. My time until now has been spent building an economic base.

1145 The English drove the French away from our northern borders a few years ago and are now our only immediate neigbour to the north. This year they assembled a force for a crusade against Cordoba. Strangely, they also immediately sent an emissary to settle peace, which we accepted. However, they'll surely try to pass next year starting a dangerous war. My years of peaceful building and harvesting seem to have come to an end and I will be forced to attend to matters of war, something which I've proven myself totally unfit for. The crusade numbers 1,027 men.

1146 The English did not attack but waited to raise more troops. The crusader army now numbers 1,158 men.

1147 The Enlish crusade is now up to 1,167 but we still await their attack.

1151 The war between the French and the English continues and has now resulted in the total destruction of the English crusade at the hand of the French. I'm a bit worried about the large French forces at our border. Yusuf, my oldest living son has come of age. I fear I may be no better at parenting than waging war as he is far too proud, which impairs his judgement.

1153 What is it with the bloody catholics? Now the French have raised a crusader army to take Cordoba. Following the tradition of the English they also sent an envoy to broker a peace, which I accepted.. The crusader army itself isn't very frightening at the moment but the regular French forces at my northern border are. I guess it's time to get back to mustering some defences.

1163 I have made great efforts to build up a fleet. Our fleets now patrol all our coastal waters, making us immune to surprise coastal attacks. As the fleet now extends its reach even further we can begin trading with other countries. Our first trade route reaches Egypt and allows trade with all Almohad provinces that have anything worth trading.

1164 The French are amassing forces at our borders. The crusaders have never moved out of Toulouse and the army numbers only a little over 500 men. However, total French forces at our borders amount to almost 5,000 men, which has me worried.

1167 All that military build-up to defend against crusades that never arrive has clouded my judgement. I ordered another attack on Portugal, the place of prince Umar's death. Sending over 1,700 men against over 700 rebels resulted in yet another catastrophy. We killed 608 rebels but lost 1,353 men. What is it that makes these rebels cut through my ranks like hot knife through butter? Fortunately my 5-star general survived the battle and kept the respect of his men, as he was the only survivor in his unit. The only good news is that there are now only 167 defenders remaining. I will personally crush them.
2nd Portugal Replay (https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/Port2.mrp) -
https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/IsmDefPrtg2.jpg

1171 We attacked the rebels with a force that almost outmanned them 10 to 1. We obviously couldn't lose, not even under my leadership. We killed and captured 153, including my lifelong adversary, the Portuguese general. 13 hobilars made it into the castle and will hold it until we clear them out by force. I'm old but hope I can get the job done before I die.
Portugal Victory replay (https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/Kalifah_Ismail_finally_takes_Portugal.mrp) -
https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/IsmlVicPrtg.jpg

1172 Catholic badass number one, the pope, has for some reason urged all catholics to crusade against us. That reminds me, that nice little French crusade is still lingering outside our borders and now numbers a little over 300 men.

1173 Using mercenary catapult crews we stormed Lisbon castle and took it, killing all 13 defenders for the loss of 28 of our own. Finally my goal to conquer Portugal is achieved. It has taken almost all of my life. I decree that none of my successors shall ever let Portugal fall into rebellion through their own negligence, or they will suffer the curse of Ismail.
Lisbon Castle Replay (https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/Kalifah_Ismail_takes_Lisbon_castle.mrp) -
https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/IsmVicLsbn.jpg

1174 No sooner had I finished my disastrous campaign to conquer Portugal than the Egyptians launch an attack on our fleet. We are therefore at war with our Egyptian brothers. I was hoping to retire and focus on the construction of our fleet but now I'll have to tend to this war.

1176 We attacked Egypt and faced a force of similar size. As something completely new, we killed more men than we lost, 1,048 to 915. The battle raged all day long, but when the night fell we had to disengage without having completed our task. At least we drew some blood.
Ismail Fails to Take Egypt (https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/Kalifah_Ismael_fails_to_take_Egypt.mrp)-
https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/IsmlDefEgpt.jpg

1177 Seeing the Egyptians weakened we struck again but the Egyptians sent reinforcements so the opposing forces were equally large. It was a very close call with the Egyptians having the upper hand to begin with but slowly we managed to turn the tide and finally emerged victorious. The enemy general was one tough bastard, as he singlehandedly killed scores of my cavalry, both on horses and camels. He finally fell. We have thus taken Egypt. We were expecting to see large Egyptian forces to the east, ready to counterattack, but we seem to have drained them good and the Egyptians pose little threat. The remaining defenders in the castle won't hold out for long.
Egypt Victory replay (https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/Kalifah_Ismail_takes_Egypt.mrp) -
https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/IsmlVicEgt.jpg

1178 Seeing that there was no real resistance east of Egypt we pressed on and took Sinai without a fight. Arabia and Palestine are ripe for the taking, with only the royal family to defend it. Unfortunately, my health seems to be deteriorating and I fear I will not live much longer. I have summoned my son Yusuf and explained to him that he must now shoulder the responsibility of being the kalifah,.... kalifah Yusuf III. He'll have an easy time mopping up the rest of the Egyptians. The castle in Egypt will fall next year and the castle in Sinai is defended only by a unit of Saharan cavalry. The threat in the east should be gone for now, but time must tell how relations with Turkey turn out. In the north the French still have large armies at our border and these must be watched. I've ordered the build-up of a large fleet of ships to improve trade. This should quickly pay off as all our provinces have built up the necessary infrastructure.

Looking back on my reign I can say I fully achieved the goals I set when I came to power in 1131. Now my capable son will take us further.

My son, there is only one thing I demand of you. Never let bloody Portugal fall


Kalifah Ismail shortly before his death (including the minimap of the kaliphate):
https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/IsmStatV_V.jpg

https://jimcee.homestead.com/files/IsmEoRmini.jpg

FesterShinetop
06-02-2003, 22:38
Quote[/b] (Cazbol @ June 02 2003,20:15)]1132 History shall remember me as Kalifah Ismail the retard.
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

Great story Can't wait for the replays http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

RisingSun
06-02-2003, 22:45
I'll be expecting it shortly http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif haven't gotten it yet, so if you sent it, please resend.

Cazbol
06-03-2003, 05:56
I sent the file to KukriKhan who'll send the file on to you.

KukriKhan
06-03-2003, 13:21
File received from Cazbol, checked, zipped & mailed to RisingSun.

The list, as of 3 June:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Curren Khalipha, Yusuf III)
Alrowan
Apache
Maniac
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei

Superior write-up Cazbol Thrust unwillingly into the role of warrior, Ismail nevertheless rose to the challange. I'll get to work on your pix ASAP.

RisingSun
06-03-2003, 21:04
Recieved Do i have to unzip it first, or can i save it straight to he savegames file?

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
06-03-2003, 21:12
You have to unzip it.

RisingSun
06-03-2003, 21:44
OK,I unzipped it and tried using MTW to open it, but it says something about an invalid command line, and then does the 'illegal operation' deal. Sorry I'm new at Play by Mail, and I've tried to do it without help, but it seems i need somebody to walk me through it...

Demon of Light
06-03-2003, 21:50
take the file you unzipped and place it in the save game folder. THis is located in your Medieval total war folder. From there you load the game and should find that it is in the list of save games that can be loaded. If you need more, respond quickly. I'm leaving soon

RisingSun
06-03-2003, 22:19
How do i place it in th savegame folder once i unzip it?

Doug-Thompson
06-03-2003, 22:22
Quote[/b] (Cazbol @ June 02 2003,14:15)]I have a new son. I've named him Ali. Anything else than Ismail or Sue.
Laughed out loud throughout the account. That line made me laugh the hardest.

Shows our age to know A Boy Named Sue, though.

Cazbol
06-03-2003, 22:31
Quote[/b] (RisingSun @ June 03 2003,16:19)]How do i place it in th savegame folder once i unzip it?
1) Open Windows Explorer.
2) Click on the unzipped file. Press Ctrl+C
3) Click on the savegame folder. Press Ctrl+V

Alternatively
a) Open Windows Explorer
b) Right click on the unzipped file. Choose Copy
c) Right click on the savegame folder. Choose Paste

I'm glad my write-up was to some people's liking. Perhaps Ismail should have been a court jester rather than a kalifah.

I had to make one change in the write-up. Prince Umar must have been my brother. I was 25 or 26 when he died in Portugal, so he can't have been my son.

Monk
06-03-2003, 22:51
perhaps the son of ur late father, his bloodlines shouded in secrecy for his own protection maybe? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif
im not sure though, it was about 3 am on saturday morning when i was playing that campaign so i could have over looked many things

KukriKhan
06-04-2003, 01:01
Quote[/b] (RisingSun @ June 03 2003,14:19)]How do i place it in th savegame folder once i unzip it?
Cazbol gave sound instructions. There's also the drag-and-drop method:

edited out unnecessarily long explanation http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

RisingSun
06-04-2003, 21:42
No further instructions necessary. I got it after Cazbol's. I am now knee-deep in desert sand. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

FesterShinetop
06-05-2003, 02:01
Give 'm hell grandpa http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

KukriKhan
06-05-2003, 03:18
Quote[/b] (RisingSun @ June 04 2003,13:42)]No further instructions necessary. I got it after Cazbol's. I am now knee-deep in desert sand. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Super http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

We'll take that as your File received, playing now message & look for an update within 2 days.

Happy hunting, Yusuf III. And remember to take notes and screenshots. I'll host them, if you need: jim@jimcee.com

KukriKhan
06-06-2003, 01:58
Shamelessly *bumping* to keep this on Page 1 for players to view. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

*Kukri chips himself*

FesterShinetop
06-06-2003, 10:17
Well, I am tracking this topic. So please don't post too much in it as it's flooding my e-mail. Thank you. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

Demon of Light
06-06-2003, 14:21
Apache: Since you're tracking this thread, I at least know that I can count on you reading this. I have a little situation in the English thread. Squippy hasn't made contact with me for 9 days now and I'm inclined to believe that he won't be playing the game. The English campaign is likely on it's last reign and I need someone who will complete England's conquest of the world. Seeing as how you are a couple of reigns down on this thread, I thought I would ask you if you wanted to play the reign of Henry II and finish out the first of these games to be created.

To borrow the language Herodotus used when he created the game; would you like to be the King of England?

FesterShinetop
06-06-2003, 19:43
Just your luck, I didn't read my mail or the forum for the rest of the day, but if you are still looking for someone to finish this, sure send it over, I'll probably have time for it this weekend

theadept
06-06-2003, 20:14
ill be kin...
wait a sec
ill be kalipha

KukriKhan
06-06-2003, 22:19
Aha Yet another chance to publish THE LIST http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

as of 6 June:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Curren Khalipha, Yusuf III)
Alrowan
Apache
Maniac
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
nicolasredfern

nicolasredfern, you are aware that this campaign is using MTW 1.1 not VI, right? Assuming the answer is 'yes', send me an email jim@jimcee.com so that I have your email address when it's your turn.

RisingSun
06-06-2003, 22:30
I'm not done yet, I've had a whole lot of unexpected things come up lately, but I will give you a report up until now.

As the man who would be known by history as Kalifah Yusuf III entered his father's - no, his- throne room, he surveryed his realm. On the borders of Aragon and Navarre, huge French armies sat, poiused to strike while wasting away in infedilities. Now he truly knew what his father had meant when he overheard him talk of frightening French armies, ready to sweep through the land. He also realized the disturbing lack of any allies, let alone emmissaries to make them The new Kalifah glanced at the decimated Egyptian realm, and the war his father had left to him. As Yusuf read the parchments, he was startled by the lack of technology in the provinces. This must change.

In 1182, Yusuf would commission the training of many emmissaries and fighting units, as well as the constructon of many buildings. This would also be the year of the first battles in his reign. It seemed some rebellious Egyptians in Sinai thought their new ruler was weak, and tried to take advantage of it. They would pay dearly in the end. In that battle, The Kalifah had left only archers to garrison the province, and set them up accordingly. But, he did not realize that the enemy army was made up of elite gulam bodyguards until it was too late. Two units of his camel-archers perished before he made the decision to remove his army from the battle. The same year, 24 besieged men ran out of the castle in desperation. Not one was spared.

1183- There was a resurgence of a great number of peasants in the Turkish-held province of Tripoli. Yusuf heard oppurtunity knocking. He commanded many troops from all over the empire to invade by boat, including himself. This was a resounding success, though the castle would not fall until four years later. The ignorant Italians also declared war by attacking our trade vessels, but at the beginning of the next year they withdrew their declaration and sued for peace. This year, Yusuf III began an empire-wide mil;itarizaion program including training elite cavalry, and fierce Muwahid Footsoldiers, alongside the fierce Ghazi Infantry.

1185- The Kalifah decided it was time the rebel Egyptians paid for their audacity. He led personally an overwhelming force, which nobody on Allah's great Earth could withstand. They where crushed. Now the Egyptians were reduced to a mere two provinces, Antioch and Arabia.

1186- An invasion from the North, aimed towards Tripoli, was repulsed with great losses on both sides. In this great year, Arabia, the chief remaining province of once mighty Egypt, was conquered by our mighty troops. The Kalifah's mind struck on an idea. He dispatched two emmisaries and an alim to the British Isles. These could be a great strategic asset in any war against the French, as well as provide trade oppurtunites. In the meanwhile, he set his sights upon the Italian Peninsula. His warships were assembled in order to move in an invasion force from all over into Sicily and Naples. This was planned to happen in one-two years time. But fate and Allah would not have it.

1187- The treacherous Turks, perhaps jealous of our hold on Arabia and Tripoli, invade Arabia with significant numbers, and this battle rages in a sandstorm while we speak...

I'll probably finish by this time tomorrow, but I am troubled. I am yet to even have a son, let alone have a mature one. If i dont have one, will the game end, or will the kingdom pass to a brother of mine?

KukriKhan
06-06-2003, 23:17
Thanks for the update Rising Son. Great write-up, especially the cliff-hanger at the end. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Yes, without a son, one of your brothers will assume the next reign. There are some listed on the roalty parchment, yes?

Monk
06-06-2003, 23:55
of course...if a brother takes over it might just spark a civil war. yep seen it happen many times yup, yup

Demon of Light
06-07-2003, 00:12
Pay no attention to Monk's premonitions of doom...yet. Seriously though, brothers usually assume power without civil war.

Apache: I am sending the English game to the e-mail account that has Bru***** in it. (excluding the stars)

Monk
06-07-2003, 00:34
yes demon is right, i was just trying to get ya worried http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

KukriKhan
06-07-2003, 00:39
Grandfathers...gotta luv em. Here Laddie - pull me finger http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

RisingSun
06-07-2003, 16:55
Never mind Glorious news I have now had a son, and he is six Hail Prince Umar And, I have to leave my house for the weekend, so it won't be over till Monday afternoon. That's okay, right? And The Italians have recklessly once again declared war... FOOLS

KukriKhan
06-07-2003, 17:55
That IS good news Rising Sun http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

And yes, Monday will be within the post every 48 hours rule. We look forward to seeing your post then. Have a good weekend.

KukriKhan
06-09-2003, 12:28
Since we're on page 5 now, and awaiting an update from Rising Sun, time for the list:

as of 9 June:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Current Khalipha, Yusuf III)
Alrowan
Apache
Maniac
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
nicolasredfern

KukriKhan
06-10-2003, 13:24
E-mailed Rising Sun to confirm he is still active.

Awaiting his post. If negative contact, we assume circumstances render him out of touch, and the game moves to the next player, RS going to the bottom of the list.

Demon of Light
06-10-2003, 19:02
He posted earlier saying that he was leaving for the weekend and would pick it up Monday. I submit that we consider him still active as of Monday and not expect word until Wednesday afternoon.

RisingSun
06-10-2003, 20:42
Never worry, I'm still alive I just finishd and will send the e-mail shortly.

As the dying Kalipha lay on his bed, his once lively strength gone, he remembered his reign. He would leave two small boys, Ismail and Umar...


Most fresh in his mind were the most recent events, such s the dastardl French declaring war in, as the Christians say, the year 1195, and how they dared not take their war from the open seas. How he wished he still had the strength to do battle with them He must make sure his brother gave them their comeuppance He wondered what would become of his holdings in Tuscany and Genoa, under constant attack from loyalist and regular Italian fores alike. How he ha strck down the Egyptian Sultan with his own hand in Arabia, and how that same province had constantly traded hands between him and the Turks. How he had made an uneasy peace with the Turks, even on his very deathbed, when their emmissary visited him. The happy occasion of Ismail's birth,and the even happier of Umar's How his emmissary had bribed rebel generals in the British Isles only to have the English reappear as he wasgoig to grasp Scotland and Northumbria Oh, the irony of it all And how those same English infidels would not make an alliace with him His orders to send a gigantic flood of Alims to Tuscany and Genoa to prepare the invasion But, this was all nothing now... He would go to paradise soon... He could only trust his brothers to behave civilly(pun intended) and not have a bitter power struggle...

And with that, the mighty Kalipha died, leaving two children and eighty-six wives. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif (And dont worry abou civil war, i viewed the beginnin of turn announcements, and theres no civil war.)

KukriKhan
06-11-2003, 01:55
Received the saveGame from Rising Sun, checked, archived, zipped & mailed to Alrowan.

The list:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Khalipha Yusuf III 1178-1196)
Alrowan (Current Khalipha, Ali II)
Apache
Maniac
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
nicolasredfern

Alrowan
06-11-2003, 16:06
boo

well i got the email today, i have some essays i must type by the weekend, but then ill be free to conquer

PS. im up for a repeat of my kings of england thread

Alrowan
06-13-2003, 08:28
im still here.. essays are underway, then the campagin

KukriKhan
06-14-2003, 04:20
Just the kind of update we're looking for Alrowan.

Best of luck on the essays...remember to use buzzwords, like synergy, amalgamation, and coalescence. Chicks love that stuff. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Alrowan
06-14-2003, 07:16
yeah, im getting there.. i started the campagin in some off time as well

Demon of Light
06-15-2003, 05:16
And thus it was that a certain synergy resulted from the coalescense of the incandescent amalgamation of the unified...doohickey.

FesterShinetop
06-16-2003, 09:56
Demon, I have been playing the English campaign but had some bad luck with computer crashing after I had been playing for 30 mins... and all my changes were lost. So I put it aside for a while.

So I am gonna wait for this campaign to come my way first and after that I might finish the English one if that is okay with you? But if there is someone else that wants to play the English don't wait for me http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

Demon of Light
06-16-2003, 10:18
If you can, I still prefer to have you play it. As long as you are willing, you have a leg up on anyone else I might find. The important thing is that you intend to finish it. I can't say the same for anyone else I could find. i left a PM asking you to go to the .org chat room to facilitate in my communicating with you. (never saw you in chat. No problem)

RisingSun
06-17-2003, 20:59
*In spooky ghost voice* OOOOOOOOoooooooOOOOOoooooo How goes the empire, lad? OOOOOOooooooOOOOOOoooo UH OH, it's the Almohad Ghostbusters Time to leave *Runs away*

Alrowan
06-18-2003, 01:01
hmm.. im not sure if i can finnish this campagin, it seems i am a slow link. Perhaps it should just be passed on to another. Any thoughts?

FesterShinetop
06-18-2003, 01:06
Just take your time. Keep us updated a bit. I guess most of us have other lives as well so we understand http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif Can't speak for everyone but as long as you don't take months to finish this it's allright with me.

Maybe you can give some small updates when you have had the time to play some?


(Demon, I will finish the English campaign. Sorry I missed you in the chat but I didn't have a lot of time the other day http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif )

KukriKhan
06-18-2003, 04:23
Echo'ing Apache here. Delays due to real life are inevitable, and we all know it. Just stop by here every other day & let us know your status.

If it's clear to you that you won't have time for a considerable period (like a week or so) state that here - we'll move your playtime to the end of the list & pass to the next. No prob's. No regrets. No apologies needed. We all know how life-stuff (exams, g/f's, kids, whatever) interferes with our best intentions.

KukriKhan
06-19-2003, 14:08
Bumping this back to Page 1, so brother Alrowan can find it.

The list:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Khalipha Yusuf III 1178-1196)
Alrowan (Current Khalipha, Ali II)
Apache
Maniac
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
nicolasredfern

Alrowan
06-20-2003, 03:19
thanks, last exam is monday http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

woohoo

GoldenKnightX2
06-22-2003, 07:03
I would like to join in.

email= smcleroy@cox.net
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

KukriKhan
06-23-2003, 13:28
June 23rd's list:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Khalipha Yusuf III 1178-1196)
Alrowan (Current Khalipha, Ali II)
Apache
Maniac
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
nicolasredfern
GoldenKnightX2

Wishing Alrowan best of luck on his final (and hoping for word sometime today).

Demon of Light
06-24-2003, 16:42
Lord, I hope this isn't shipped to Apache soon Poor guy still has the English game.

KukriKhan
06-24-2003, 23:00
I'm going to assume that Alrowan is still recovering from exams, and a celebratory hangover - and give him another day to update us. OK?

Happy anniversary, players We started this project one month ago today, and have made good progress.

FesterShinetop
06-25-2003, 09:44
Quote[/b] (Demon of Light @ June 24 2003,16:42)]Lord, I hope this isn't shipped to Apache soon Poor guy still has the English game.
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif Poor me http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif

http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif But to be honest I was kind of waiting for the Almohad campaign to finish that one first before continuing the English one as I guess the Almohad one will take some less time as the English one... (still with me http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif )

KukriKhan
06-26-2003, 03:39
Very well, then. Alrowan has 24 hours to update (0400 GMT, 1300 Sydney), otherwise we assume the dingo's got him and the play goes to Apache.

Alrowan
06-26-2003, 08:37
pass it on please, i have had too many other commitments, both in RL and online of late to get this done

thanks for your patience, and perhaps ill be ready when the VI version reaches me

KukriKhan
06-26-2003, 11:34
Thank you Alrowan, best of luck in settling your affairs - if there's anything I or we can do to help, let us know.

Zipped and mailed the game to Apache.

The list:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Khalipha Yusuf III 1178-1196)
Apache (Current Khalipha, Ali II)
Maniac
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
nicolasredfern
GoldenKnightX2
Alrowan

FesterShinetop
06-26-2003, 14:50
File received, unpacked and checked. It works okay I'll get to work on it ASAP, probably this weekend Keep you posted http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

FesterShinetop
06-29-2003, 10:34
Update: haven't started yet, something came up, but I will probably be starting later today. The king is allready an old bugger http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif so it shouldn't take too long http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif . Expect a full story here soon Stay tuned, we'll be back after this break... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

KukriKhan
07-02-2003, 16:12
Looking forward to an update from Ali II (aka Apache)

FesterShinetop
07-02-2003, 17:22
Yes, I am gonna play it right now. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif Hope to have an update later this evening. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

FesterShinetop
07-02-2003, 20:12
As I expected it was quite a short game. Kalipha Ali II died in 1203 (started in 1196). Maniac will have a longer game no doubt as the new Kalipha is only 21.

I will write something nice and post some pics later and send Kukri the new save game.

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

Edit: File zipped and send to Kukri

FesterShinetop
07-02-2003, 22:06
1196

I never expected it after all these years… but it was really true, I now am the Kaliphate of the Almohads. What a proud moment for Ali II. But also I know I am an old King so I don’t expect to rule long among my people… but my sons are eager to take the throne.

http://home.planet.nl/~bruin504/Almos/Almo1.gif

http://home.planet.nl/~bruin504/Almos/Almo2.gif

And it where hard times for us Almohads as we have no friends in this world, only enemies. I am too old to try for world domination but I will build up a Grand Army so my sons can do me proud.

Already in the first year of my reign those bastardly French took advantage and invaded Aragon, the ruler of these Christian Dogs himself leading the army. It was a long time ago I, Kalipha Ali II fought his last battle and it could be seen… the defeat was terrible, Aragon was sure to be lost.

http://home.planet.nl/~bruin504/Almos/Almo3.gif

Also the people of Genoa revolted, surely strengthened by the news of the defeat in Aragon… the army defending Genoa was a small one and it was a wise thing to do to retreat to Tuscany and strengthen the army there.

1197

The Kalipha’s sons reached an age where they can sit on the throne should I die. Prince Ali and Umar turned 16 this year.

Aragon fell to the French dogs.

1199

The tactic to reinforce the troops in Tuscany with the withdrawn troops from Genoa paid of as together they were able to withstand an invasion by the Italians, one of many enemies of the Almohad people.

Another enemy can be added up to the list, the Turks have declared a Jihad to the Almohad province of Tripoli. Troops are needed there to withstand this cowardly act.

A crusade to Castile, declared by the French dogs, can now easily reach it through Aragon. But a substantial army is placed there to wait for them. They cowardly run from our great army.

KukriKhan
07-02-2003, 22:20
SaveGame received from Apache, archieved, checked, zipped, and mailed to Maniac.

Good job, Apache - - and Good Luck Maniac

The list:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Khalipha Yusuf III 1178-1196)
Apache (Khalipha Ali II 1196-1203)
Maniac (Current Kalipha, Umar )
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
nicolasredfern
GoldenKnightX2
Alrowan

FesterShinetop
07-02-2003, 22:27
PART 2

1200

Our stronghold in the North, the province of Mercia is invaded by the people they call English… yet another addition to our list of enemies… Our proud army fights till the bitter end… but they are on strange soil and are forced to retreat to the small fortress…

http://home.planet.nl/~bruin504/Almos/Almo4.gif

The province is lost… I hope my sons will prove themselves more worthy on the battlefield…

Again the crusade arrives in Castile and again they are shocked by our proud warriors and retreat again.

Reinforcements arrived in time in Tripoli, the Turkish Jihad is also impressed by our army and retreat.

1201

It was to be feared… Mercia has fallen. Lets not forget the proud warriors who battled so far away from home…

The French dogs are beginning to irritate me… again the crusade enters Castile and leaves again as the cowards they are. I will ask my sons to squash these French as a fly.

The Turks are as great cowards as the French, their Jihad army runs from our proud troops in Tripoli again.

1202

I am getting too old for this and I don’t feel too good… my end is near I am sure… and those annoying French and Turks still keep trying to complete their Crusade and Jihad… But there is some good news…: our army is now the greatest army there is…

http://home.planet.nl/~bruin504/Almos/Almo5.gif

With this grand army I am sure my son Umar, the next Kalipha will be able to do great things for the people of the Almohad… make me proud my son…

1203

* Kalipha Ali II of the Almohad dies by a mysterious disease (as do some of his mistresses), Kalipha Umar I now takes the throne at the age of 21 *

http://home.planet.nl/~bruin504/Almos/Almo6.gif

KukriKhan
07-04-2003, 15:57
Paging Maniac. (Heh, maybe he doesn't want to play Umar again - also his character in the VI Almo project) http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

FesterShinetop
07-04-2003, 19:44
Yes, talk about a coincidence Well he shouldn't have a hard time to get into character then http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Maniac
07-05-2003, 14:56
Oooh sorry. I've been busy. And I didn't seem to get your email Kukri. I'll write to you so you can make sure you got it right. If I am not too late that is.

This is going to be a looong reign.
Things to do:
1)Start Umarian mushroom plantations in the Middle East http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

KukriKhan
07-06-2003, 03:48
Can't wait for 'Shrooms II, the Wrath of Umar http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

You have mail (again) Maniac maybe I can finally tell the difference between an 'L' and an 'I'. Heh: Lithuania being kind of distant from Italy

Maniac
07-06-2003, 09:11
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/eek.gif An American knows where Lithuania and Italy are? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif

Save received, now I'll install the 1.1 version and get down to righteous butt-kicking

Evil, meet Sword Sword, meet Evil

Demon of Light
07-07-2003, 01:16
Apache: Is the English game next?

FesterShinetop
07-07-2003, 01:18
That is the planning http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Maniac
07-08-2003, 15:08
It seems due to real life reasons I won't be able to play in the campaign. Nothing serious but I don't want to stall the game. So I am to be skipped. I presume you still have the save, Kukri? If not, let me know.

Demon of Light
07-09-2003, 10:10
Bumped for Kukri

KukriKhan
07-10-2003, 02:21
Thanks Demon of Light for the bump, and Maniac for the advisory.

File re-directed to Skie Mirror Silvanoshei

Revised list, as of 09 Jul:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Khalipha Yusuf III 1178-1196)
Apache (Khalipha Ali II 1196-1203)
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei (Current Kalipha, Umar)
nicolasredfern
GoldenKnightX2
Alrowan
Maniac

Teutonic Knight
07-10-2003, 19:06
Hey guys, I'd like to get involved in this if possible, only I have a small problem. .

**Whenever I take a screenshot and look in the appropriate folder, it tries to open it with adobe acrobat, and I don't know how to switch it to any other program to open it.....so how would I go about doing that?**

other than that, I'm ready to go as soon as Alrowan is done http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Demon of Light
07-11-2003, 01:11
Teutonic Knight: I think I might know how you can do it but it requires you to know how to use DOS. How are you with that?


(does anyone have a simpler solution?)

Lord Of Storms
07-11-2003, 01:35
Quote[/b] (Teutonic Knight @ July 10 2003,13:06)]Hey guys, I'd like to get involved in this if possible, only I have a small problem. .

**Whenever I take a screenshot and look in the appropriate folder, it tries to open it with adobe acrobat, and I don't know how to switch it to any other program to open it.....so how would I go about doing that?**

other than that, I'm ready to go as soon as Alrowan is done http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
TK, You should be able to switch the program that opens the file or TGA by right clicking on the folder and you should see a list and on it should say open with and you should be able to switch from the adobe acrobat to the correct program to view the TGA's with, usually a photoshop or comparable program will do.

Demon of Light
07-11-2003, 01:54
Unless I'm mistaken, the absence of open with as an option is the very problem TK is having. At least that is what it sounds like since I've had that happen to me. Hope I'm wrong though.

Teutonic Knight
07-11-2003, 16:20
Quote[/b] (Demon of Light @ July 10 2003,19:54)]Unless I'm mistaken, the absence of open with as an option is the very problem TK is having. At least that is what it sounds like since I've had that happen to me. Hope I'm wrong though.
unfortunately you're right.....

that seems to be the problem here, as I don't see that option there.

I'm OK with DOS but it's been a few years lol.....

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
07-11-2003, 16:21
I'm still here.

Demon of Light
07-11-2003, 22:21
TK: open the DOS prompt and do the following


get to C:\program files\totalwar\...\TGA *...added because I'm feeling lazy*

this is done by typing cd progra~1\totalwar...

if the path is too long for you too remember you can use command dir/p to list the contents of a directory. once you find what you are looking for you can use cd whatImlookingfor to access it. Rinse lather and repeat as necessary

once you are at the right folder, hit dir/p and find the screenshot you want to open. I'm going to assume it is called screenie1.hmm. THe .hmm is the file extension. This is the thing that makes your file not open correctly. We are going to make a new file with the correct file extension. Type copy screenie1.hmm screenie1.gif

(substitute correct names as appropriate)

once you do this, exit and go back to the folder. The gif file should be waiting for you. At best, you'll be able to open it as is. At worst, the computer won't know what to do with it and will ask you to select a program to open this with. Either way, you win (unless the option doesn't appear and the file can't be opened)

Let me know how this works for you. BTW, .gif isn't the only extension you can use.

KukriKhan
07-13-2003, 02:06
Hi fellas; just an administrative note: my domain name is being fought over by rival hosting companies, thus my jim@jimcee.com email is inoperative temporarily.

If you need to contact me, use: t6001@cox.net

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
07-18-2003, 01:06
KK, I never recieved the game. please resend it to xxplatinum2xx@aol.com

KukriKhan
07-18-2003, 01:38
Quote[/b] (Skie Mirror Silvanoshei @ July 17 2003,17:06)]KK, I never recieved the game. please resend it to xxplatinum2xx@aol.com
File re-sent; the original 'send' went to your hotmail account.

Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
07-18-2003, 15:52
It says that's its not a valid archive, please send it again. And trust me, I did it right.

KukriKhan
07-19-2003, 11:06
Now we have a dilemma: Skie Mirror Silvanoshei was sent the saveGame at 1336 Florida time, yesterday, per his post above. No response.

He is also the next player in the VI Almo campaign. And he is admin'ing a new HRE campaign.

I've emailed his stated aol address to determine his desires. Until he responds, both Almo campaigns are 'dead-in-the-water'. We'll wait until noon, my time (1500 Florida, 2000 GMT) to hear from our fellow player Skie Mirror Silvanoshei - after that, I'll send the appropriate saveGames to the next-in-line, assuming that we've had a commo glitch, or that real life has prevented his participation at this time.

KukriKhan
07-19-2003, 20:05
I've sent the saveGame file to nicolasredfern.

The current list:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Khalipha Yusuf III 1178-1196)
Apache (Khalipha Ali II 1196-1203)
nicolasredfern (Current Khalipha, Umar 1203 - )
GoldenKnightX2
Alrowan
Maniac
Teutonic Knight
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei

FesterShinetop
07-20-2003, 01:24
Well, might be tough in this period, it is the holiday season of course. So maybe a good idea if the people still on the list that are planning to go on holiday soon let us know?

Btw, nice word: admin'ing http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

KukriKhan
07-20-2003, 01:42
Quote[/b] (Apache @ July 19 2003,17:24)]Well, might be tough in this period, it is the holiday season of course. So maybe a good idea if the people still on the list that are planning to go on holiday soon let us know?

Btw, nice word: admin'ing http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif Doncha jus' luv uh'murikun Inglish?

Good idea, brother Apache; summer vacations & travel and all might preclude some from being active in this period. If prospective players need to pass for awhile, don't be afraid to so state. No obligation here. And if all else fails, your humble admin'in' guy Kukri will step into the fray.

GoldenKnightX2
07-20-2003, 04:06
Yeah im next http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif and I wont be going anywhere, trust me. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

KukriKhan
07-20-2003, 18:53
Actually GoldenKnightX2, it may be sooner than you (or we) thought: brother nicolasredfern is also non-responsive to email so far & hasn't visited the .Org since 11 July. So I'm going to assume he's on holiday also, and offer the game to you.

edit: File sent to GoldenKnightX2.

20 July list:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Khalipha Yusuf III 1178-1196)
Apache (Khalipha Ali II 1196-1203)
GoldenKnightX2 (Current Khalipha, Umar 1203- )
Alrowan
Maniac
Teutonic Knight
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
nicolasredfern

GoldenKnightX2
07-20-2003, 19:54
Game received http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

GoldenKnightX2
07-21-2003, 23:21
I will be done soon, just telling ya, every things going great, profits up, more land under my control. ok the, post a write up soon. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wave.gif

KukriKhan
07-23-2003, 11:57
*shamelessly bumping so GoldenKnightX2 can find this thread on page 1* http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

KukriKhan
07-24-2003, 02:10
Received GoldenKnightX2's savGame, checked, zipped & mailed to Alrowan.

Thus, the 23 July list:

ChaosLord (Khalipha Yusuf I, 1087-1120)
Monk (Khalipha Yusuf II, 1120-1131)
Cazbol (Khalipha Ismail, 1131-1178)
RisingSun (Khalipha Yusuf III 1178-1196)
Apache (Khalipha Ali II 1196-1203)
GoldenKnightX2 (Khalipha Umar 1203-1245)
Alrowan (Current Khalipha, Idris I 1245- )
Maniac
Teutonic Knight
Skie Mirror Silvanoshei
nicolasredfern

edit: Rats...Alrowan's hotmail rejected the email. Advice? Volunteers?

Alrowan
07-24-2003, 05:51
resend it, i had some 250 KB file in there that was a virus, its cleaned up now, so go for it

Edited by KukriKhan to add: file re-sent at 1103 GMT

KukriKhan
07-24-2003, 14:49
Sorry Alrowan, the 2nd attempt failed as well. Do you have an alternate mailbox?

Alrowan
07-24-2003, 14:53
hmm.. if this is the 1.1 game, i have no longer got it installed

as for alternate email, not yet

KukriKhan
07-24-2003, 15:01
Yup, this is the 1.1 version. I asked a couple weeks ago if you wanted to be on both lists - do you want to pass this game and wait for the VI version? (You're next in line there, after ArseClown)

And Maniac and Teutonic Knight: if you are reading this, are you prepared to play?

Demon of Light
07-26-2003, 06:52
Posting to save Goldenknight a slot to post his reign if all else fails

Teutonic Knight
07-26-2003, 13:48
Quote[/b] (KukriKhan @ July 24 2003,09:01)]And Maniac and Teutonic Knight: if you are reading this, are you prepared to play?
I should be ready when Maniac's done, I'm just trying to solve this screenshot problem....

but other than that I'm ready to rock and roll http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif

Demon of Light
07-28-2003, 06:30
TK: I take it my suggestion failed. Sorry

Anyhow, I hope Maniac turns up. Kukri might want to send him an e-mail to advise him of his impending reign.

Cazbol
07-28-2003, 08:35
Teutonic Knight, I have two suggestions but I have no idea whether they work or not.
1) I just installed Photoshop 6 yesterday, and during the installation I could select which file types should be opened with that program and which shouldn't. If you haven't done so already, try to install (or reinstall) a new picture viewer/editor and see if you get those options.
2) Uninstall Adobe Acrobate using and uninstall function or the Add/Remove Software function in the control panel.

If neither of the above works then I'm at a loss. Hope you manage to fix this.

Teutonic Knight
07-28-2003, 15:17
thanks for the suggestions guys, and DOL, I haven't yet had time to fully implement yet, and if it doesn't work then I'll try to use Cazbol's suggestion, I think that should probably work......

otherwise I'll post back when I get it fixed http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smokin.gif

KukriKhan
07-28-2003, 18:25
Email out to Maniac to check his availability.

Teutonic Knight, if all else fails, you can send me entire saveGames with instructions on what kind of screenshots to take for you. Clumsy, but if nothing else works, it is an option. I can't imagine right-clicking a file and not getting a Windows menu including open with. Are you using Windows XP, or 98 or what?

Teutonic Knight
07-28-2003, 20:04
Quote[/b] (KukriKhan @ July 28 2003,12:25)]Email out to Maniac to check his availability.

Teutonic Knight, if all else fails, you can send me entire saveGames with instructions on what kind of screenshots to take for you. Clumsy, but if nothing else works, it is an option. I can't imagine right-clicking a file and not getting a Windows menu including open with. Are you using Windows XP, or 98 or what?
I'm using windows 98 but I just haven't had time to try any of the suggestions lately so today I'll prolly try them and see if they work...


I don't think we'll have to take such drastic measures as that Kukri, but thanks for the offer http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif

Teutonic Knight
07-30-2003, 15:02
Hey guys, you might want to take me off the list until further notice, as I had a bit of a family crisis and I won't be back for about a week... I'm now posting from a library http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

so I'll be back soon and I'll let you guys know when I can get jiggy with this thing W00T

Demon of Light
07-31-2003, 08:05
New idea by Louis de la Ferte Ste. Colombe

http://www.totalwar.org/cgi-bin....;t=9348 (http://www.totalwar.org/cgi-bin/forum/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=15;t=9348)

KukriKhan
08-05-2003, 19:37
Moving to PlayByMail forum.

Cazbol
08-11-2003, 08:23
Who is actually playing now?

Demon of Light
08-11-2003, 21:41
No one. If I understand this correctly, there isn't anyone left on the list. Teutonic Knight is dealing with a family emergency (good luck to him) and off the list. Alrowan is off the list because he doesn't have version 1.1 installed. Maniac is busy it seems and nicolasredfern never responded to KukriKhan's missives. That's the entire list. It doesn't exist anymore.

Teutonic Knight
08-11-2003, 21:57
Quote[/b] (Demon of Light @ Aug. 11 2003,15:41)]Teutonic Knight is dealing with a family emergency (good luck to him) and off the list.
I just resolved my problem yesterday, and I just haven't had time to play yet, I should be underway soon and we can get this thing rolling again...

o_loompah_the_delayer
08-12-2003, 12:43
I am a bit of a luddite as regards the posting pictures adn stuff, but I could play.

Cazbol
08-12-2003, 14:03
Now then. That's two bits of good news in very little time.

Cazbol
08-26-2003, 12:39
Any news of Teutonic Knight or o-loompah?

Drucius
08-26-2003, 13:10
Apparently not. I could have a crack at it if you like...

ballarat@blueyonder.co.uk

o_loompah_the_delayer
08-26-2003, 15:29
I have never gotten the game. I would guess that teutonic has it.

Cazbol
08-26-2003, 16:37
I'm not the admin of this campaign, but as a previous player I would like to see it concluded. Teutonic Knight is active on the forums so let's see what he says. If he can't play, then it might be a good thing to let o-loompah and Drucius at it first.

Teutonic Knight
08-28-2003, 15:52
I don't have the game either, as it appears that DOL has disappeared temporarily.

My HD crashed anyway and I won't be able to do anything for several days...........bummer http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif

so if you can track down DOL you can tell to pass it on to the next man....

Cazbol
08-28-2003, 16:16
Unless I'm seriously mistaken, it's KukriKhan who's the admin of this campaign.

Demon of Light
08-28-2003, 16:20
Correct. I don't have this game and I can't pass it along

Teutonic Knight
08-29-2003, 18:19
D'oh
Teutonic Knight hits himself in the forehead

o_loompah_the_delayer
11-11-2003, 01:25
In the name of Allah the most gracious and I forget the rest as I am not especially pious you see, forgive me but I am the Caliph Idris, the first of that name in the Almohad dynasty, who has ascended to the divine service at the age of 40 years in the year 665 AH, or 1245 of the Christian Era. I am not as I said a pious man and am more concerned with enjoying myself than working hard on military or business matters. Consequently few except my servants pay any attention to me and even they think I am strange (influence 3, piety 2, dread 1, command 2, acumen 0 http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/mecry.gif, great warrior, strange -10 happiness empire wide), but I suppose I was the best candidate available to my father as both my brothers are even greater scoundrels than I. I pray that my three underage sons will be less disappointing than we were to our father, but unfortunately regarding him we suffer a great amnesia as all record of his reign seem to have been lost.

Regarding our empire, the northern borders are defended by Amir Yacub (4*) and Amir Mardanish (5*), who have relatively well matched armies in Navarre and Aragon to their opposite numbers in Aquitane (1000 French) and Tolouse (1000 French under Lord Poitevin 5*), thought the army of Navarre is a concern as it is mostly expensive mercenaries. The French have a powerful empire and have conquered much of England but fortunately we a re at peace with them for the moment.

In Tripoli the Grand Vizier (2*), a hopeless man whom I intend to sack has some 1500 men against two full Egyptian stacks in Antioch, where alas we have no spies. I have dispatched an Alim hither to make enquiries. The Egyptians hold as far as I can tell only Lesser Armenia, Antioch and Cyprus, and they are at peace with us also.

In Palestine Amir Mutamid (5*) has about 1500 men facing about 300 Turks in Arabia under the fearsome Trebizond Gazi (7*), and Syria is curiously empty. I suspect this is because of the Mongol threat, but there are no spies in any of northern territories.

Finally in Italy, there is a powerful army in Corsica (Amir Mutamid 6*) facing no Italians at all in Sardinia, and several weak and depleted armies in Genoa, Tuscany, Naples (seiging Sicilians) and Venice. The Sicilian army in the Papal states is a joke but the Pope in Rome has a number of chiv knights/ sergeants/ foot knights who can almost certainly wipe out anything we have - mostly Muwahids/ Nubians/ Murabitin/ AUM/ Desert archers/ Saharan Cav and some Ghulam body guard providing the heavy cavalry support. The German Emperor, with whom we are also at war, also has a small army in Provence. Rebels hold Sicily, Milan and Croatia – God alone knows where the remaining Italians physically are

Alas we have no siege engines at all except three miserable catapults, I cannot imagine what my ancestors must have been thinking as I would have snapped up every trebuchet or mangonel that even peeped into our inns over the last 150 years, and unfortunately we wont even be able to build any for at least 6 to 10 years (construction orders in Venice and Tripoli, where this can be done most swiftly). We also have no decent medium cavalry like our Egyptian cousins’ Mamelukes or the Turks magnificent Armenians, so orders are also issued to construct horse breeders/ spear guilds in the provinces of Leon and Castile (both have blacksmiths) so that eventually we can get well armed ghulam cavalry.

Our fleet is unrivalled, the Hungarians with 5-6 cogs are a distant second, but we are peace with them as well. But as much of the Mediterranean coast is held either by us or rebels there isn’t that much trade, to drub it up I have ordered ships north to the Baltic and east to the Black sea. Nevertheless our finances are sound with a treasury of 115k and a net income of 6k. But many governors are of low loyalty and also quite a few are incompetent and greedy, these are going to be replaced starting with the Grand Vizier. I have also begun large-scale construction throughout the empire; hopefully I will acquire the virtues of great builder and the associated loyalty boost quite soon. Troops are to be raised to replace the depleted armies in Italy and also to create a backup army in Spain in the event of a Frankish attack. I have also ordered two jihads, I am sure there are some provinces they can target and they should provide a swift boost influence and loyalty

As regards military affairs, our strategy is simple: first ensure the loyalty of Portugal, as recommended by Caliphs past Then consolidate Italy by eliminating the Sicilians and seize defenseless Sardinia. There is a nice rebel army with many halberdiers and some chiv knight in Sicily itself, I intend to bribe them - at 3,440 fl that’s a bargain - and use that to take on the Pope. In the middle east, take Syria and Arabia as soon as possible and depending on how the Mongols are prepare to face them in the Syrian desert with hopefully many camels For the time being leave the French alone for trade and they also seem busy with the Germans.

So emissaries are sent to bribe the rebels in Sicily, and seek alliance with the Pope and Hungarians. The four assassins target various foreign emissaries and princesses.

The armies attack Syria, Arabia and the Papal States. Alims are also sent around Europe to spy out the exact strength of the French and Mongols.

1246:

The outcome of the battles:

Syria: the Turks under the fearsome trebizond Gazi retreated to the castle faced by 1300 men under Amir Mutamid.

Arabia: 800 of us against 134 Turks, 120 casualties each, but worryingly the camels were not as effective as I thought they would be: I sandwiched one lot of spearmen between two camels and they held out for a while. Also sandwiched a group of Armenian HC with camels, but they had to be bailed out by muwahid spearmen and ghulam bodyguards. Both generals had 1*, though the Armenians had valour 3.

Papal States: 160 Almos against 45 Sicilians, no contest.

Naples: 830 Almos against 240 Sicilians invading and sallying forth from the castle, victory with 70 losses suffered against 170 inflicted.

Sardinia: no Italian army at all, looted 2700 fl.; the treasury is now down to 110k.

The Pope has rejected our alliance offer, but Amir Mutamid has landed in Tuscany with 700 men so that should give his Holiness something to think about. We also now know the precise strength of the Egyptians in Antioch, 1100 men under Imaduddin Zangi (4*); the Turks are also in a bad way with only 150 men in Edessa and 400 in Rum. There are 3100 Mongols in Armenia, they probably haven’t moved since the showed up in 1230 (all units are at full strength) and they are led by Jebdun (4*), who seems unbribable. Perhaps taking Syria was not such a bright idea (more to follow)

Demon of Light
11-11-2003, 13:01
A voice from an alternate reality booms Don't destroy the Papacy...yet.

Glad to see you have the game. I'm surprised that the expansion thus far has been so anemic but I guess I'm just used to Alrowan.

Cazbol
11-11-2003, 22:58
Finally as champion has risen to take up the banner and lead the Almohads to greatness again. I'm looking forward to following this reign.

o_loompah_the_delayer
11-16-2003, 12:15
1246 - Nothing interesting, the French take Milan. Prince Ismail (3*) comes of age and is sent to Tripoli. Hopefully there he will learn something but I am pessimistic. Another useless heir. If his younger brother is any better someone is going to make a one way trip to Khazar.

1247 - The Turks have declared a jihad targeting Arabia, with over 550 men with many Khwarizm Cav. There is a great revolt in Cyprus against the Egyptians, a 4* rebel (Isaac Phalagion) is leading a powerful army of halberdiers and archers against the poor Crown Prince of Egypt. We send an emissary to discuss matters of mutual interest with the rebels. The Egyptians have a new commander in Antioch, Fakhruddin (5*), I am worried about Ismail. The Italians have taken Croatia, and they seem to also hold Serbia. So thats where they were hiding

1248 - No battles, it appears the only province we can jihad against is Mercia (French) Lord Machiavelli of Sicily accepts our bribe (216 halberds, 36 chiv knights&#33http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif, and in a straight swap is made King of Navarre while Uncle Mutamid (6*) is made Amir of Sicily (+1*). The other Uncle Mutamid in Syria is appointed Grand Vizier (+1*), where the Turks have finally been starved out. I think that Naples, Papal States and Arabia shall never fall I want mangonels aargh At least Naples and Arabia will fall in 3-5 years, in the Papal States they will hold out for ever. I am going to risk it, all three catapults are being moved there for an assault An emissarry is sent to Khan Ogdai IX.

1249 - The clerks have made a mistake, its not three catapults but only two and one ballista. Whatever, we will assault. The governors are all reappointed, the treasury stands at 110k, with a net +9k. Quite satisfied as armies in Italy are now quite quite solid. Working on the backup armies for Spain and Palestine. Still worried about the Mongols in Armenia but 2000 men (including some mercenary billmen and Italian Inf) in Syria perhaps we should attack some one? Finally my nobles are paying me due deference, I am recognized as an accomplished builder and have 6 influence. Even my brothers are behaving (loyalty one up to three), the nightmares of Civil War recede. But I still fell out my bed this morning The Egyptians have abandoned Lesser Armenia and Antioch to put down the Cypriot revolt, I cant believe this, there are exactly 60 urban militia between us and pots of money as Amir Bulganin's fleet can bottle up the Egyptians in Cyprus.

1250 - The Mongols are in Austria. Bugger. There are also 4,500 Mongols in Hungary. Lets not forget the 3,000 in Armeia. Better news from elsewhere: Perugia Castle has fallen for the loss of 68 men. I am very pleased, the curtain walls were entirely made of stone so we set up our 'artillery' to destroy the second gate while ghazis used their axes on the first. AUM then swept in with the remaining ghazis and moppped up the 16 strong garrison. Also The Egyptians didnt stick around to fight and withdrew to Antioch Castle. Traders in the Baltic sea report that the Prince of Novgorod has been long dead and all his people are now rebels uninterested in our fine silks. The Prince of Novgorod must have been mighty indeed There are citadels in Livonia, Lithuania and East Prussia, and three level 3 fortresses everywhere else Perhaps we should spread bribes there and attack the Mongols from the North before turning on the French? There is a fine collection of trebuchets in Finland as well........We invade Rome.

1251 - The invasion of Rome is a complete success, the Papacy doesnt even put up a fight. Problem is they have gone south to Naples where Don Machievelli (2*) doesnt stand a chance, especially as he has no missile troops (lousy clerks). The battle was fierce - initially 80 Chiv Knights foolishly charged Machiavellis Muwahid/ Nubian front line and were wiped out to the man, our losses are some 160, including 28 of our chiv knights and all the ghazis. Their archers then came up as the main army marched past to the left and the remainder of the Chiv knight moved to our right. Saharan cavalry routed one of the archers but then were routed in turn when the Pope himself attacked, the main Papal foot and our lines then engaged and just as the battle seemed to be going our way and the Pope had even thrown his archers into the melee, the chiv knights attacked from the flank and rear. The remnants of the Muwahid/ Nubians who had fought them earlier and been left to rest and cover the rear were swept aside and then everyone routed. But 632 Papal forces lay dead against our 630 odd dead and 240 odd prisoners. The Pope now occupies Naples but with fewer than 200 men - barely enough to hang on to the province even with very low taxes. Alas he will also receive the surrender of the fort. But never mind, guess what we found in Rome? A seige workshop - we can now build our own Trebuchets Hurrah We have also bribed Don Galeazzo (4*) of Malta, but the commander of the other Army their proved too loyal. In battle his precious army of chiv seargeants/ feudal knights is immediatley withdrawn and then ransomed. Don Galeazzo is made Amir of the Papal States, while one of his underlings is earmarked as Amir of Antioch and send to Cordoba to join the 'Almohad Brains Trust', all the deep thinkers we have - the Amirs of Tripoli, Egypt, Venice and Cordoba Good news from Austria - rebels all of them longbowmen and hobilars unfortunately without any spears. The Mongols will no doubt massacre them but hopefully not before the longbows do damage.

1252 - The ex-master of Antioch Castle is now the richest man in the world having pocketed a 6,900 fl bribe. The Sicilians reappear in Malta. The Mongols have not only crushed the rebels in Austria but have now got their grubby paws on Bohemia and Lithuania. Not good. Prince Umar has come of age and is marginally better than Prince Ismail with 4*. A new heir is born and named Yusuf after the glorious founder of our dynasty. The first Ghulam Cavalry unit is trained in Leon. Prince Ismail invades Egyptian Lesser Armenia. The Sicilians reemerge in Malta.

1253 - It is a sad day for the Empire as the great Admiral Bulganin (4*) has been killed by the Turkish pirate Kitbugha. The Pope has rejected our peace overtures and called for a crusade against us, hopefully the French will ignore him and the Germans are irrelevent. The Italians also refuse peace, though the Monglos will no doubt attack them soon. Prince Ismail was victorious in Lesser Armenia - through cunning use of arbalesters the entire Egyptian force was wiped out for the loss of only one Saharan cavalryman. Good news from the Mongols - the Hungarians are revolting with many spearmen and archers and cavalry. The rebels have also united and driven the Mongols out of Lithuania and Moscow. To take advantage of this, a small raiding party will seize and then abandon Prussia, so that I can summon a Jihad. A larger army under Amir Yacub of Castille is dispatched to take and hold Livonia. We can now raise Ghulam Cavalry in Venice and Leon and Armenian HC in Lesser Armenia. With this force I plan to take on the Mongols in Armenia by 1256, the tenth anniversary of my reign.

1254 - Livonia and East Prussia are now ours. Surprisingly the Prussians are quite docile - 84% of the people support us so I think I will reinforce the province - after all there is a citadel there Rebels in Hungary and Carpathia have whipped the Mongols, who are now allied with us (and the French). Sooner or later they must call on the 3000 men in Armenia so hopefully they will strike north to Turkish Georgia and not south at us. I am not going to attack them any longer but will seize some more Baltic provinces. The pirate Kitbugha has been captured and hung.

1255 - The Germans invaded Prussia and were beaten off with light casualties. Most prisoners were executed. Our euphoria about the Hungarians is short lived, the Mongols have crushed the revolts in Hungary and Carpathia. The remaining Turkish pirates gave us the slip in the Dardanelles fog. Also Prince Abdullah has come of age, he is even worse than my brothers. I have sent him to East Prussia. All my hopes now rest on Yusuf. I wish the Egyptians and the Italians would make peace and trade but they wont.

1256 - As the rebels had abandoned Novgorod I invaded. The fleet has beaten the Turks again in the Black Sea. An attempt to bribe all four Lithuanian commanders was made, only one accepeted the bribe. The province of Rome now has 53% muslims, and St Peters basilica is renamed the Mosque of the Pir Boutros. To celebrate the tenth anniversary of my reign all taxes are reduced to normal, of course they will be put back up next year, but the peasants dont know that.

1257 - Our 'allies' the Mongols invaded Lithuania so there was no battle. As they had twice as many men as we, they got the province. And now all the rebels are dead as they had nowhere to retreat. The attempted bribes have backfired spectacularly. The Mongols are as strong as ever and we have added three difficult to defend provinces in the Baltic. The money however is very good, 152k with a net of 19k. The Hungarians have reemerged with a rather weak army in Carpathia.

1258 - Surely the Mongols are the maddest people in the world They have abandoned Lithuania, perhaps they intend to deal with the victorious Hungarians in Carpathia? They also seem to have forgotten to pillage Lithuania Well I am going attack and hopefully take Lithuania. Prayers are announced in all Provinces for victory in the coming battle in the Agean - Admiral Omar has finally cornered the remnants of the Turkish fleets. If the Hungarians survive I will attack the Mongols, if not I will wait for more rebellions. I feel like an idiot but I cant make up my mind what to do. Prince Umar has been asked to attack Edessa from Antioch. The equivalent of one stack of units is diverted from elsewhere to Antioch including five trebuchets. Should the Turks retreat to Edessa castle we will be able to assault The Pope has raised to taxes to normal in Naples, I have asked Omar al Hakam to go and clip his wings a bit. A small force is also sent to attack the Germans in Provence.

1259 - Lithuania - the rebels retreat to the castle, and should fall in two years. Provence - the Germans are positioned on top of a low hill. Their catapults are in the open and Saharan cav charged them down though one single shot crushes two horsemen. The arbalesters then begin their work but after a little while the Germans begin to attack the Saharan Cav and ghazis on the left. The arbalests are ordered to withdraw, while AUMs and Ghulams attack the Germans from the back. 100 German dead and 50 odd prisoners, against 120 losses for us. The battle in Naples is less satisfactory as we lost almost two hundred men but all the Popes chiv knights were killed at which point we withdrew leaving the Pope about 100 men in all, taxes in Naples are down to very low. The Turks retreated to Edessa castle. Our forces have captured Smolensk, and next we will attack the peasants in Finland and Muscovy. The Trebuchets in Antioch are sent to Edessa and Great Uncle Mutamid invades Rum.

o_loompah_the_delayer
11-23-2003, 13:08
1260 - The Finnish peasants managed to kill 230 men including the general Yusuf al Mutamid, but our brave fellows didnt waver and went on to win the day

In Muscovy the rebels retreated into the fort, while in Edessa the Turks sallied forth led by the new and equally capable Amir of Trebzond (7*). But with a 133 men against over 750 they never stood a chance and were killed to the man, though the brave Amir took 20 Almohads with him.

The battle in Rum was much more exciting: aware of the preponderence of armoured Armenian HC in the Turkish ranks, Uncle Mutamid went in with a force mostly of Ghulam cav, Muwahids, AUMs and Ghazis, with only one unit of arbalesters. Seeing our weakness in missile troops, the Turk foolishly charged down his saracen infantry from the hill without any support and the AUMs enjoyed themselves, while three units of Ghulams surrounded and routed an enemy Muwahid company and then went of to chase the Turcoman horse archers. The main force of Turkish Khwarizmis and Armenian HC then charged and for a while it was touch and go, until the saracen infantry fled and we could bring in the AUMs, Ghazis and Ghulams, behind the Turkish Cavalry. The Turks fought valiantly but eventually collapsed and in the rout we took 191 prisoners, all of whom were executed. 630 Turks died for the loss of 549 Almohads, and neither side deployed their reserves. A good victory, if I say so myself, as with the failure of their Jihad, the Turks have now collapsed into Civil War.

The Mongols have also eliminated the Hungarians but the recent warfare has taken a great toll on them, and I think we could safely take them on in Europe. The main concern now is that horde in Armenia, but surely Allah smiles on us Jebdun the right hand of Infamy (4*), and general in Armenia is crack brained (-2 morale). Surely he cannot stand against the Grand Vizier

We also abandon Provence in preparation for a Jihad.

1261 - Bad news I am afraid, the Pope has been insulting me again, Prince of darkness, heathen worshipper of Mahound, you get the idea. He thinks that as he has beaten us twice in Naples, everyone else can do so and the French have responded in their lily-livered way. A crusade is marching from Burgundy to Lithuania of all places and is wintering in Tyrol for the moment. How they will convince the Mongols to allow them passage I have no idea, but the Mongol Khan has broken our alliance in favour of the French, so who knows. Worse still the muslims of Northumberland have ignored the command of their Caliph (me) and rebelled against their King. I fear that we are about to loose a valuable trade partner. The net +25k has become only +15k due to the lost revenue, the treasury stands at 187k. Oh well, forget the Mongols whose Heavy Cavalry has preoccupied me for so long, the Dauphin will soon be an orphan. The Amir of Aragon (5*) is asked to invade Tolouse and Amir Galeazo (5*) to take Aquitane. Great Uncle Mutamid (skilled attacker) is also asked to invade Milan from Tuscany, with reinforcement from Genoa and Amir Yacub (5*), though a poor attacker, is asked to take on the crusade in Tyrol from Venice. Orders are also issued to assault the fortresses of the Kremlin and Konia (Rum). Meanwhile, the imams have called for a jihad to Provence, but the response is disappointing to say the least, mostly drug addled assasins, too few to be of any value, and naptha throwers of all people I had hoped for hordes of ghazis and saracen infantry, but I suppose we will have to make do, at least there is a sprinkling of ghulam knights and camel archers.

1262 -
My dear boy Ismail,

You know the stuff about the one-way ticket to Khazar was a joke right? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif You read this letter because you are now the Caliph, as I have passed away from the mysterious viking ailment of the 56th year. It is surprising that I was afflicted as I have never had anything to do with these vikings, but there you go, perhaps it is chance and you will not yourself suffer as I. I have taken one liberty - in posthumously appointing the Grand Vizier, Amir of Rum so that he is now 7* and the best general in the realm. The choices for the new Amirs of Leon, Provence and Moscow, I leave to you.

As you know we are in open war with the French, and all our offensives have by the Grace of God been succesful.

In Aquitane the French initially deployed behind a hill to conceal their numbers and then proceeded to take up the natural position on top, even as our soldiers marched in strength to overwhelm their left. The first clash occurred there and after heavy fighting the Nubians carried the day, but not before a company of French Militia had defeated a company of Muwahids and a company of our FMAA too Amir Galeazzo himself had to intervene On our left, the foolish French general (Royal knights, but not a prince) went off to pursue a scout group of Mameluke archers, while our Ghulam cav and AUM attacked the French xbows and arbalesters supported by only two companies of Feudal Seargents. The General immediately returned, routing one AUM unit, but our Mamelukes had also charged in the rear of the French and they all routed. No prisoners were taken and 890 odd French lay dead against 590 on our side.

Hearing of their disaster in Aquitane the French army in Toulouse fled to their castle without even offering battle. But those in Milan were made of sterner stuff - 2,000 French, reinforced with forces from Tyrol I believe, faced Mutamid's (skilled attacker, so 8*) 1,400. As it was almost dinner time I left matters in Mutamid's capable hands loosing 773 men against 1,129 French (autoresloved).

In Tyrol meanwhile the French were sleeping soundly in Innsbruck even as Amir Yacub descended on them by surprise. As their crusading army had gone south to Venice, they had assumed that Tyrol was secure from us without a battle against the crusaders first. The cowards retreated to their castles. As for the crusaders, who had used a different pass than Yacub, shattered by the news from Tyrol, they refused to fight and fled to Croatia (Italian).

I do not believe the French pose a threat any longer as the only significant armies they have are in Mercia and Bohemia, far away from the battlefields of France. I doubt that the army in Anjou could raise any of the seiges even if the garrison sallied. Also if you jihad to Mercia that may tie down that army? Of course the combined crusader and Italian army poses a threat to Venice.

The assaults on Konia (Rum, autoresolved) and the Kremlin were also succesful. The Kremlin was a shock: all the walls were entirely of stone where I had expected wood. Two companies of Ghazis were wiped out, but a fortuitous catapult shot hit and buried the Rebel commander, though it might have been a lucky arbalester, and so casualties were mercifully light (about 180 dead). In Provence the small German garrison hid in a forest and were all shot by the Hashishin and Camel archers. The last four of them finally fled and were chased down.

Ismail, you will also find a force of some 100 Ghulam bodyguards of an antique type in Portugal - do not waste them in battle but only to top up the personal guards of our best generals such as the Grand Vizier, as they are from a bygone era can no longer be trained. My boy, you are only 31 and young and despite the campaign against the Egyptians, inexperienced. A number of officers such as the garrison commanders in Tunisia and Portugal are verging on disloyalty as are many of the bribed rebel units, so be wary But I am sure that you will have a long reign ahead of you and will conquer the French and then go on to crush the Mongols who have given me so many sleepless nights.

Good Luck,

Caliph Idris I (1206 - 1262)

o_loompah_the_delayer
11-25-2003, 17:05
My reign is over. Anyone want to have a go at bashing the French?

econ21
11-28-2003, 00:23
OK, I'll take the case Please send the savegame to:
simon.appleton@nottingham.ac.uk
Thanks

PS: Good job reviving this campaign; I have a hard time visualising the Almohad kingdom without a screenshot of the mini-map but it seems very extensive - from Aquitaine to Moscow via Rum, no less. You've done well seeing things through and dishing the French.

Demon of Light
11-28-2003, 06:59
Dr. Appleton: Thanks for taking the next reign. Any chance you can get a screenshot up that shows the current state of the Empire?

o_loompah_the_delayer
11-28-2003, 12:10
Thanks Simon but its not quite that extensive, I avoided taking on the Mongols and French to first build up a cash reserve. I dont think 115k that I started of with was quite enough, but 200k-250k should be adequate. Enjoy

econ21
11-29-2003, 03:12
The Coronation of Kalipha Ismail II


http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/00000000.jpg


Kalipha Ismail II at the time of his coronation. With few discernable talents except for survival, Ismail nonetheless has a look of dogged determination.

“I thank you once again for bringing news of my father’s passing.” Ismail solicitously ushered the messenger to the door:

“God gives and God takes away” Ismail concluded with solemn resignation.

Then the new Kalipha Ismail II closed the door and turned to face the empty room. His normally inscrutable face widened into a smile and he raised his head, giving a silent laugh.

“So, the old sod fell before he could fix me, did he? Ha Even the brightest and boldest are at the mercy of the fates.”

Ismail felt relief and exhilaration struggling within him. But the wry smile soon left the new Kalipha’s face as he reflected on the enormity of his inheritance.

Ismail had lived very much in the shadow of his father, Idris, and his achievements. Only the truly mediocre can recognise talent with brutal clarity. Ismail had borne his father’s disdain without rancour. The hedgehog cannot begrudge the fox his cunning or expect to be treated as its equal, he must merely hope to survive any attentions of the superior animal.

His father, Idris, had taken possession of a sleepy Kaliphate that had fallen into neglect and inertia, and had re-invigorated it. In the deserts of the Levant, the Almohad armies had driven the Egyptians and Turks from their homelands. Around the Baltic and the northern steppes, by guile and cunning, Idris had carved out a fine enclave, including as jewels the Kaliphate’s only two citadels. In the West, the old Kalipha had begun a massive offensive against the French and was busily overseeing simultaneous sieges of four provinces when fate intervened and brought his illustrious reign to a premature end.

Ismail sat hunched over the map of his inheritance. The messenger had borne it from his father’s death-bed and Ismail’s eyes feasted on it hungrily for his father had excluded him from all discussions of grand strategy. Ismail noted with satisfaction the many orange-marked lands of the Kaliphate that adorned the periphery of Europe like the gilt around a fine text. But they were not what most caught his attention. More compelling were the olive-coloured provinces of the Mongol Khan, running from Khazar to Austria like a dagger through the heart of Europe.

Ismail ruminated. His slow wits absorbed the information contained in the map. But he soon realised he had no great decisions to make. His course had been determined for him by his father. As unlikely as it seemed, he must step into his father’s place and continue his work. As much as it rankled to have ones actions dictated by the man he had thought he was now free from, his path was inevitable. Surrounded by neutral factions, including the Mongols, there was nothing to be gained now by planning any offensives out of the Levant or the Russian enclave. He must simply continue to prosecute his father’s war against France with whatever vigour he could muster. He must pray for the continued forbearance of the Mongols and wipe the French from the face of the earth.

Ismail turned peckishly to the bowel of olives on his table. He popped one into his mouth and nibbled it contentedly.

“Well, that’s that, then.” He thought to himself, before summoning his advisors. “The rest is just details.”

Teutonic Knight
12-02-2003, 00:21
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/00000000.jpg

let me guess, he has the friendly virtue? http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/joker.gif http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

econ21
12-02-2003, 12:07
The early reign of Kalipha Ismail II

The devil is in the details, they say. It is only now, after eight years of rule that I feel in full command of my kingdom. The year is 1270 and the war with France has reached a decisive turning point. I can afford to pause and reflect.

1262

My initial appraisal of the strategic situation overlooked one detail – the presence of hostile Germans next to my Baltic enclave. Wishing to rid myself of as many enemies as possible, I ordered my brother, Prince Abdullah, to seize Pomerania from them. In France, Amir Mardanish was commanded to lead a force into Anjou while I moved to Venice to repel the French crusade approaching from Croatia. In all three cases, our enemies recognised our superior strength and refused to give battle.

But in my complacency, I had not considered that the French would attempt to relieve their besieged forces in Aquitane and Toulouse. The French left Anjou, not by retreating into their interior but in order to strike at neighbouring provinces. Galeazzo de Medici successfully defended Aquitane with a mixed force, crucially including three arbalesters. These deadly troops have proved to be the decisive weapon in my otherwise unremarkable arsenal. Losses were heavy and roughly equal on both sides, however. By contrast, the defence of Toulouse was a shambles. The crack-brained Llewellyn ap Gruffydd was in command and lacked any ranged support whatsoever. A smaller French force routed Llewellyn’s motley army, inflicting 363 casualties on us for the loss of only 89 men.

Elsewhere, I withdrew my navy from the waters around Crete, where the Egyptian Sultan was exiled. This led to an end in hostilities and the resumption of trade. I was pained to learn of the death of Princess Matilde of Sicily, killed by one of our assassins. The Sicilians, neutral in the present conflict, protested vigorously but I could honestly deny all knowledge – for in truth, this was a dark legacy of my black-hearted father.


1263

Noting the weakly held Turkish province of Byzantium, I opportunistically ordered a sea-borne invasion. However, the ships were turned back on seeing the arrival of an army from the Golden Horde in the province. I had no wish to spark hostilities with the Mongols while engaged in a bitter struggle with the French.

After the vigorous French counter-offensives of the previous year, I decided that the war was not going to be won by the superior skill of our Almohad warriors. Our enemies had fine knights that we had little counter to and even their foot was a close match for ours in arms and armour. Our treasury rose each year in my early reign and consequently, I ordered all provinces to train troops without thought of the expense. We would bury our enemies under the mass of warriors we would throw against them. Priority was given to raising arbalesters, Nubian spearmen and cavalry since these were our best counters to the Catholic knights. These were to be supplemented by Almohad urban militia and ghazi infantry, units that could do damage to the Catholic foot.

An army was hastily mustered to retake Toulouse. Once again, the French vacated the targeted province in order to strike at a neighbouring one. This clever strategy helped them to maintain near parity on the battlefield, despite being outnumbered over the front as a whole. A bloody battle was fought in Anjou, with 1700 of our warriors facing 1400 Frenchmen. We lost 706 men, inflicting 890 casualties and taking 291 prisoners.

In the Baltic enclave, Prince Abdullah led 940 men into Brandenburg from Pomerania but was met by a German army behind a river with two bridges. By skilful use of a feint at one bridge, Abdullah managed to get half his army across the other bridge but then fought a bitter struggle against the Germans, spear-headed by their knights. Abdullah’s ghulam bodyguard were wiped out and to his shame, my brother fled the battlefield. The day was saved by our arbalesters, who yet again proved decisive.

Elsewhere, there were attempts by our enemies to sally out from besieged castles in Milan and Pomerania, but these were rebuffed.


1264

We regained the initiative in the war with France, invading Britany and Burgundy unopposed and storming Toulouse castle. German held Switzerland was also taken. Once again the French attempted to relieve Anjou, but were beaten back with heavy losses on both sides.

Events in the Baltic enclave took a turn for the worse, however, with a declaration of war against us by the Poles. A strong Polish army, led by many knights, struck at Prince Adullah’s men besieging the Germans in Brandenburg. His reputation for being a good runner combined by a shortage of spearmen led to his army being swiftly driven from the field, losing half its men. My disgraced brother was rumoured to have run from the battle screaming like a girl. I regretted my earlier leniency and immediately removed him from command, exiling him to Tunisia.


1265

I halted operations in France to focus on the crisis in the Baltic. An army of 1600 men was mustered to invade Poland, defended by 400 Poles. Massed ranks of arbalesters tore into the fine Polish knights, earning us a bloodless victory.


1266

We assault enemy castles in Brittany, Burgundy and Poland. Normandy is seized from the French, along with Brandenburg (a besieged German province which the French had opportunistically invaded following the Poles defeat of our forces there).


1267

I move into Ille de France, hoping to earn my spurs in battle. A freshly raised sea-borne force invades Normandy. The German castle in Switzerland falls to our forces.


1268

Hoping to gain momentum in France, we launch three fresh offensives. I lead an army in Champagne, Al-Mu’tamid invades Lorraine and Ibn Yacub strikes Swabia. Only the latter move is contested, but the defending army is pitiful – a mere 221 soldiers. Arbalesters followed by cavalry killed the defenders to a man for the loss of only 4.

We assault Berlin-Kolln castle, taking prisoner Emperor Otto IV and so eliminating the German dynasty.

The French attempt an invasion of Poland but are deterred by the arrival of a fresh army I have raised to seize Silesia from the remaining Poles.

Seeing the defeat of Catholics factions across Europe, the Pope calls for crusades against me but this cry seems unlikely to be answered.

The only reversal this year is the loss of a dhow patrolling the Adriatic to Italian pirates. There are now two Italian galleys menacing the Italian coast. Rather than try to play cat and mouse at sea, I resolve to remove this threat by storming their bases in Croatia and Serbia.


1269

This was the decisive year in the war with France. My armies on the frontline were ordered to pause to consolidate the previous year’s gains. On the periphery of operations, a sea-borne invasion was launched of French held Wessex while Al Mu’tamid marched an army from Venice into Italian held Croatia. Both strikes were unopposed. The urgency of the move into Croatia was underlined by the sinking of two baggalas in the Adriatic by the piratical Italians.

Abu Salim led an army of 1200 against the remaining 200 Poles holding out in Silesia. Although wiped out, the Polish nobility died hard – killing more Almohads than there were Poles on the field.

But the key battle of the year took place in Swabia. I had noticed that our besieging army there was in effect in a salient, bordered by several large French armies. Consequently, I had ordered it be bolstered by a mercenary contingent of Vikings and Feudal Men-at-Arms. This move proved far-sighted, as the French King launched his last hurrah, leading a force of 2000 against the defending Almohad force of 1500.

The first wave of the French army was made up of fine troops – 81 Royal Knights, 120 Feudal Men-at-Arms, 200 Chivalric Sergeants and 90 Militia Sergeants, backed by many arbalesters and other missile troops. But our forces put up a model defence. The arbalesters were directed to fire at the knights and Nubian spearmen ordered to meet them. Our Almohad urban militia and mercenary foot marched to engage the French heavy infantry, while at a critical point 160 Ghulam cavalry launched into the French missile troops at the rear of their army. After a fierce melee, the French first wave broke and the King himself fled the field. The second wave of French attackers included another 52 knights, 80 lighter cavalry (mounted sergeants and hobilars) and many foot, with a preponderance of archers. Our defence was similar to that used against the first wave except that this time our ghulams launched a frontal charge against the French lighter cavalry and drove it from the field. The third and final wave was a rabble of peasants and urban militia, easily cut down by our arbalesters and rode down by our cavalry. Realising this was a decisive battle from which the French should not be allowed to recover, I ordered all prisoners to be executed rather than be ransomed back to the French King. By the end of the day, 1839 Frenchmen lay dead on the field, accompanied by only 184 of our troops.

The same year, the French castles in Ille de France and Flanders fell.

In despair, the Pope sent an emissary to me, declaring that I should end hostilities and usher in a new era of peace since I now held 60% of Europe. I merely smiled and shook my head at the emissary, saying simply. “It is not enough”.

Magraev
12-03-2003, 10:39
Excellent story and well done. Keep up the good work http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

o_loompah_the_delayer
12-03-2003, 10:58
Quote[/b] (Simon Appleton @ Dec. 02 2003,05:07)]The early reign of Kalipha Ismail II

I was pained to learn of the death of Princess Matilde of Sicily, killed by one of our assassins. The Sicilians, neutral in the present conflict, protested vigorously but I could honestly deny all knowledge – for in truth, this was a dark legacy of my black-hearted father........

In despair, the Pope sent an emissary to me, declaring that I should end hostilities and usher in a new era of peace since I now held 60% of Europe. I merely smiled and shook my head at the emissary, saying simply. “It is not enough”.
Good. Use your aggressive feelings, boy Let the hate flow through you. Soon you will fulfill your destiny and join the dark side Muwahahahaa

econ21
12-05-2003, 02:35
Kalipha Ismail II unites Europe in 1281 at the spritely age of 50.

[Details to follow in a week or so.]

Cazbol
12-05-2003, 10:13
My, that was swift. I looked at the map as it was before o_loompah took over and it seemed like the game had only just begun but.

o_loompah_the_delayer
12-05-2003, 12:01
well done,and only eleven years after beating France. That must have been quite a battle against all those gallowglasses in Ireland

econ21
12-10-2003, 01:59
The Conclusion of the War with France

“Details Details Why do you persist in asking for the details? In a few years, who will care where, when or how Galeazzo de Medici defeated Lord de Montfort?” Ismail berated the aged scholar.

“Your majesty, please indulge an old man a little longer in his arcane pursuits…” the scholar pleaded.

“Oh, very well. I’ll give you twenty minutes more, no longer. Where were we? Ah yes…”

1270

As I explained, the battle with the French in Swabia in the previous year was decisive. Our forces marched unopposed into Mercia, Bavaria and Silesia. The Italians also offered no resistance to our invasion of Serbia and so disappeared from the pages of history.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/00000007.jpg

The French King doomed and dejected after his defeat in Swabia

1271

The year began with a stiff battle fought in Wales against the remnants of the French army occupying the England. Galeazzo de Medici led an army of 1300 against a 1200 Frenchmen. By the close of battle, 550 of our warriors lay dead on the Welsh hillside but only five Frenchmen escaped to Caernarfan castle.

News of that victory added confidence to our advance of 1900 men into Bohemia, where King Guillaume I lay at bay with 1200 soldiers. The French King fought a skilful and gallant battle. He positioned his archers at the top of hill, minimising the ranged advantages of our arbalests. Then, as we approached, he personally led three companies of knights in a headlong charge down the slope. To prevail against him, I was forced to sacrifice some treasured and rather exotic units inherited from my father – Abyssinian guards, Italian light infantry, Saracen spearmen and English billmen. Quite how the blackguard came to enlist such forces I cannot guess, although looking at my own rather lacklustre native units I confess I would be curious to know.

“But Sire, I heard it said that you led your own bodyguard in a charge against the French king”

Yes, I did so but pay that no heed. It was an act of vanity, not valour. I soon reined in the charge, realising that it was Guillaume’s destiny to fall on that field, not mine. We lost over 400 men that day, although only nine Frenchmen survived the battle.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/00000012.jpg

Kalipha Ismail II counter-charges King Guillaume I in the final battle of the war with France


With the defeat of France, Poland, Germany and Italy, the Mongol lands looked less like a dagger in the heart of Europe and more like an object clasped in the jaws of the Almohad Kaliphate.


http://homepage.ntlworld.com/simon.appleton1/00000016.jpg


The sweetest news of the year, our final victory over the French notwithstanding, was the birth of my first son, Ali.

econ21
12-10-2003, 02:03
The First Year of War with the Mongols

“Your majesty, please forgive the impertinence, but with the defeat of the French and their Catholic allies, was their any chance that you were perhaps a little over-confident in your actions against the Mongols?”

“No. Strategically, our position was unassailable. Every year, troops poured out of our provinces and still treasury rose. Our influence in the world, and the loyalty of our peoples, was unquestioned. Defeat was inconceivable.”

“And yet…?”

“And yet the problem was that the Mongols did not recognise this.”

1272

I resolved that there was little to be gained in delaying the inevitable conflict with the Mongols. Consequently, I ordered strikes into the Mongol held provinces of Volyhnia, Armenia, Trebizond, Austria and Hungary while Galeazzo de Medici moved against the strong rebel forces in Northumbria. The move into Hungary was unopposed, but elsewhere our armies were fiercely challenged.

Galeazzo de Medici’s victory in Northumbria was perhaps the most brutally efficient, if the least gallant. He led 1600 men against 1300 rebels, surprisingly made up mainly of Murabitin and Turcomans. As always, our victory was thanks to the power of the arbalest – a decisive weapon that offset the mediocrity of our spears and cavalry. The poor Northumbrians bravely formed up in valley beneath our arbalesters and endured an endless stream of bolts. Entire companies of rebels died in this fashion, the rebel leaders only response being to funnel more men down into the valley. Eventually, the rebels realised the futility of their position and retired leaving only 22 of Galeazzo’s soldiers dead on field.

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Galeazzo’s arbalests rain their bolts down on the Northumbrians in the “valley of death”

Our first encounters with the Mongols were far less one-sided. Even in Volyhnia, where we outnumbered them 1600 to 600, there was a sharp encounter. Amir Yacub fought a skilful action, like Galeazzo, driving off our enemies with judicious use of his arbalests. But one incident was an augury of grim times to come. Five dozen Mongol warriors on foot charged one hundred Nubian spearmen and proceeded to butcher them almost to a man. This experience underlined the major weakness of our forces – we relied upon the Nubians to screen our arbalesters, but these unarmoured soldiers often seemed to serve the Kingdom more by stolidly laying down their lives than by taking those of our enemies.

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Our first taste of Mongol skill at arms – Mongol warriors massacre a unit of Nubian spearmen


The second battle of the year against the Mongols, in Armenia, was a debacle. Prince Umar led 1700 men against a Mongol army of only 700. He employed the standard tactics since used in almost every encounter with the Golden Horde. That is to say, a line of Nubian spearmen protected our arbalesters from the Mongol heavy cavalry while our own cavalry held the flanks. Typically, this tactic was effective at wearing down the Mongol forces, but at great cost to our own spearmen. Usually, the Mongol heavy cavalry broke through our lines and then victory was dependent on the arrival of reinforcements. But in Armenia, these lacklustre tactics were at their worst. Approaching the Mongols with line of sight obscured by a hill, our arbalesters had little time to do their work. A large force of Mongol heavy cavalry struck our right flank while even our centre failed to hold. In desperation, Prince Umar led his bodyguard in a charge through our front to try to stabilise our lines. Soon, however, his bodyguards were all dead and the lone prince was surrounded on all sides by fierce Mongol fighters. My brother fought valiantly, but was cut down along with 1400 of his men.

In Austria, the same pattern threatened to repeat itself. I personally led our army, making sure we met the Mongol cavalry with spears and arbalests, but even with support from our Ghulam cavalry, it was not enough. Our frontline broke and I confess I too joined in the rout.

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The battle of Austria – the Almohad first wave about to crumble under the weight of Mongol heavy cavalry

Only the arrival of our second rank of soldiers saved the day. Brave Muhawid foot, who I had relegated to garrison duty in favour of the Nubians, backed by fanatical Ghazi warriors and supposedly obsolete archers, halted the Mongol pursuit and drove them from the field. The battle was won, but at the cost of nearly a three quarters of my army and my own reputation for valour.

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The battle of Austria – the depleted Almohad second wave stand victorious

Only Amir al Mu’tamid, the Grand Vizier, secured a decisive victory against the Mongols. Marching into Trebizond, he was greeted by a fierce Mongol counter-attack

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The battle of Trebizond – a tide of Mongol heavy cavalry charges towards the Grand Vizier’s army

However, the Grand Vizier was favoured with more of the exotic units bequeathed by my father – two companies of well-armoured halberdiers and another of Italian light infantry helped stop the charge of the Mongol heavy cavalry and enabled our arbalesters to ply their bloody trade. We lost over 500 good men, but killed or captured 1200.

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The battle of Trebizond – the Grand Vizier delivers the Kaliphate its first decisive victory over the Mongols

econ21
12-10-2003, 12:03
The Unification of Europe

“Perhaps it is true that we underestimated the fighting prowess of the Golden Horde” resumed Ismail, “But for all their skill on the battlefield, we were too big to be beaten. With the economic and human resources of Western Europe and the Levant at our disposal, we could levy fresh companies each Spring to replenish our armies while the Mongol losses were irreplaceable. Even defeats furthered our war aims. The Mongols often ransomed back our captured soldiers but could not afford to buy back their own. And anyway, the arbalest takes few prisoners.”

“Forgive me, your majesty, but is that attitude not a little cold given the fate of your brother, Prince Umar?”

1273

Prince Umar was avenged. Our oldest brother and heir to the throne, Prince Yusuf, led an army to strike down his killers. In the wooded hills of Armenia, he fought a bitter struggle against the Mongols. Eighteen of Prince Yusuf’s own bodyguard fell and an entire unit of Saharan cavalry was eliminated but vengeance was ours. No mercy was shown to the few Mongols who surrendered.

Elsewhere on the Southern front, the Grand Vizier led an army into Constantinople. Lacking any heavy cavalry of his own, he used Ghazi infantry as home-grown halberdiers to tear into Mongol heavy cavalry. A second force marched unopposed into Georgia.

In the North, our invasion of Volga-Bulgaria was not contested. Seeing strong Mongol armies in Carpathia and Chernigov, I ordered generals in neighbouring provinces to hold while awaiting reinforcements.

In response, the Mongols launched arbortive strikes into Muscovy and Hungary, but the critical battle took place in Volhynia. There, a relief force of 1600 Mongols marched to engage our besieging army of 1700. Whether by luck or good judgement, our defending general gave battle beside a small lake. Initially, he deployed anchoring his army with the lake on his right flank. However, he then found the Mongols approaching opposite, closer to his rear. Hastily, he ordered his army to about turn and took position with the lake to his left. The Mongols made as to envelope around both sides of the lake, but fortunately when contact was made, they abandoned this plan. Instead they funnelled ever more men into a direct attack on our restricted front.

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The first battle of Volhynia – protected either side by a lake and a forest, the Almohad forces have a fine defensive position to hold off the Mongols

Deployed on a narrow front, our Nubian spearmen were able to hold off the massed Mongol heavy cavalry while, safely to the rear, ranks of arbalests tore into them. The battle was the decisive one in the war with the Mongols. Over a thousand of their finest warriors fell, including many heavy cavalry. Our losses were high – 350 – but, unlike those of the Mongols, replaceable.

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The first battle of Volhynia –the graveyard of the Mongol heavy cavalry

To ease our conquest of the remaining rebel areas of the British Isles, we bribed the rebel garrison of Edinburgh castle.

1274

We aggressively followed up the victory in Volhynia, with invasions of Khazar, Moldavia, Carpathia, Wallachia, Lithuania and Ryazan. Almost everywhere, the depleted Mongol armies gave way and withdrew.

Only in Wallachia was battle given – a curious affair in which our army lacked any spears and had few arbalests, while the Mongols fortunately lacked any heavy cavalry. At high costs, our gallant infantry saw off the Mongol steppe cavalry and granted us victory.

Once again, the Mongols tried to relieve their besieged garrison in Volhynia. This time, we were not so fortunate in deployment and the battle followed the more normal course of our battles with the Mongols.

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The second battle of Volhynia – the Mongols approach

We deployed with spears and arbalests, flanked by heavy cavalry and awaited the onrush of the Mongol heavy cavalry.
As usual, the Mongols came on in earnest and rampaged through our unarmoured Nubian spearmen. Our lines wavered and everywhere there was chaos as the Mongol cavalry threatened to overrun our unprotected arbalesters. We hurried forward our few reinforcements – a solitary unit of steppe cavalry and an additional company of Nubians. Although the Mongols threatened to overwhelm us, after the terrible attrition they had faced here the previous year, they lacked sufficient heavy cavalry to follow through and by the will of Allah, our depleted lines held.

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The second battle of Volhynia – through the power of the arbalest, the Almohad lines hold - just

Final victory against the Mongols was at hand, but fate had some remaining twists. In the Eastern Mediterranean, we earlier observed with concern the construction of a small Byzantine fleet. The temptation of plundering our sea lanes laden with trade goods was too great for the Byzantines and so they entered the war.

1275

In retribution for Byzantine piracy, we launched swift invasions of the Byzantine mainland provinces of Nicaea, Greece and Anatolia. Nicaea was uncontested while a small Byzantine garrison of 300 fought like devils in the wooded hills of Greece – inflicting losses of over 400 on our troops. However, the main Byzantine army of 1200 was stationed in Anatolia and included nearly 200 of the feared Varangian guard.

The battle for Anatolia began with the advance guard of our invading army of 2000 facing a massive hill to their front. At first, our general rejoiced as he marched his army up the hill and found it undefended with only a few Byzantine units deployed at the foot of his slopes. But his confidence was soon undermined as he realised he had walked into a trap. Varangian guard poured out of a wood to his left while a third contingent of Byzantines crested the hill to his right. Although directing his arbalests to target the Varangians, the axemen were indomitable and soon his advance guard was driven in confusion from the hill. Hastily summoned reinforcements of second line troops were called up to the battle and formed a rearguard that only just managed to see off the pursuing Byzantines.

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The battle for Anatolia – the Almohads scrape a victory over the Byzantines by the skin of their teeth

The battle was won by the slenderest of margins, with 1200 of our fighters lying dead on the Anatolian hills along with 1100 of the Byzantines.

That year it seemed as if the world itself was in flames, as the Danes also joined the conflagration – storming into Franconia.

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The Danes enter the war …


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And drive the Almohads from Franconia

The Danish Royal knights lacked the weight of numbers of the Mongol heavy cavalry, but were their equal in skill of arms and well supported by fearsome Viking warriors. Our garrison in Franconia deployed in our characteristic defensive formation but was swiftly routed from the field.

In truth, I rejoiced at the entry of the Byzantines and Danes to the war. Leading my army into Bulgaria, I decided to end these conflicts once and for all – leaving my young son a legacy of a peaceful, united Europe.

1277

The last year of any note in the great war. Bolstered by turncoat clansmen and spearheaded by lines of arbalesters, our armies stormed through the Scottish highlands – killing 1000 and capturing 300 for the loss under 200 men.

A freshly formed army of 1500 was landed in Denmark, but remarkably was driven from the field by the mere 600 defenders. Elsewhere, the Danes were driven from Saxony, Friesland and Franconia while 5700 of our men overran the remaining Mongols in Kiev and another armytook Pereyaslavl.

The End of History

At this point, I confess I lost interest in the detail of struggle and left it to my generals to resolve on their own. Our armies marched into Sweden, Denmark and the Crimea. Victory was secured at sea, allowing the invasion of Rhodes followed by Cyprus, Crete and Malta. Gradually enemy garrisons fell as the remaining great houses of Europe – the Mongols, Danes, Byzantines, Egyptians and Sicilians – disappeared into the annals of history. Peace finally came to the continent in 1281, when our massed forces seized Ireland, assisted by the bribery of the rebel garrison of the great citadel of Dublin.

But by then, my attention had long since shifted from winning victories on the field of battle to building a lasting peace. I have devoted my remaining years to forging civic institutions through which people of all lands and religions could live together in peace, striving to improve their lives through labour and the pursuit of knowledge.

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Divine Wind
12-11-2003, 12:44
Congratulations Simon. Fine work again as usual, i dont expect any less from you Thanks for the excellent read. http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/pat.gif

All_the_Sultan's_horses
12-20-2003, 10:23
Simon,

I note with interest that your armies contained a large number of arbalests. In your comments you also mentioned that not a few victories and near-defeats were owed to them. How did they contribute to your victories? Surely missile fire alone does not win battles? And isn't it all too easy for enemy cavalry to sweep in before your arbalests have been able to get off more than one or two volleys?
Very interesting commentary. Loved the bit about fostering religious harmony and the pursuit of knowledge

econ21
12-20-2003, 20:26
In my experience, arbalests are brilliant weapons in Total War. I confess I find them my favorite and most war-winning unit. They puncture through the heaviest armour, are very accurate and are pretty cheap.

They have a long range - possibly out of the reaction range of the AI - and so (unlike bows) can be used very effectively on the attack. In other games, I've wiped out defending Varangians and heavy cavalry from afar with virtual impunity using them.

Defensively - which was almost always my tactical situation in this campaign - they do have to be shielded by spearmen. But they can still fire over the heads of the spearmen (even on level ground, strangely enough) and even into the melee. If the spears held - as in the battle by the lake in Volyhnia - the outcome was a massacre of Mongols akin to the Red Indians circling cowboy wagon trains in the old movies.

Often the spearmen (Nubians) would fold before the Mongol heavy cavalry. But usually this was not before giving the arbalesters the chance to kill lots of the Mongol heavy cavalry. What happened next was hit and miss - sometimes, I would have the numbers to form a second line and defeat the depleted Mongol heavies (again relying on screened arbalesters); sometimes, I'd be over-run. But the arbalesters would often have killed a lot of Mongol heavy cavalry and that was a finite resource - unlike my Nubians and arbalesters which I could churn out by the bucket-load.

I don't think the Almohads have any other units that are so effective against very heavy cavalry.

All_the_Sultan's_horses
12-20-2003, 21:01
Cool. So you had your arbalesters fire at enemies engaged in melee with your own men? How was the rate of fratricide? When using arbalesters, or any missile troops for that matter, I placed them right in front of the rest of my army to force the enemy towards me. I'd retire them once battle was joined however, since I wasn't too keen on friendly fire... maybe I'm just too soft

The Almohads were a faction I played a number of times if only for the challenge- how to deal with Catholic knights without the appropriate troops? I used Ghazi for the most part but they'd lose as many, if not more, than they killed. Ghulam cav just lost badly to knights. So I never really came up with a satisfactory solution.