KotR Orders and reports thread [Archive] - Page 3

AussieGiant

01-16-2008, 22:18

CHANCELLOR'S REPORT 1352 continued:

The War Office

The offensive season saw just three engagements.

The first was Johann Zirn lifting the siege of Vienna. In what was a wise move due to plague and legacy reasons Johann Zirn requested that von Hapsburg not take part in the battle for fear of losing members of the Austrian nobility and command structure.

Tragically for Johann, Sir Dieter von Essen was killed in battle. It seems as if it was a self fulfilling prophesy.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1803693&postcount=233

The second engagement saw Prinz Dieter capture and finally retake our ancestral capital back from the Greeks. It was an anti-climatic event, but I'll take those engagements any time these days.

The third and final engagement bodes well for the future of Bavaria. The un-knighted and untested Hermann Steffen marshaled no less that three nobles, their retinues and the largest collection of the Reich's forces seen in some time. The fact that one of those nobles was the Kaiser himself and the French forces were some of the most formidable ever to attack us simply adds more credence to the young mans effort and skill.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1805690&postcount=235

Recruiting:

This has now become an issue. Even though our Citadel's are infected, I have continued to recruit where I deem there to be the most need. The only exception now to this is in Outremer where the Viceroy has asked recruiting to be suspended to try and break the plague infection.

Additionally financial reasons meant that Innsbruck did not recruit this season. I had to make a choice and given there are three full armies and one half army in the theater this made the choice obvious.

Frankfurt: 2 x Teutonic Knights
Ragusa: 1 x DFK and 1 x Pavise Xbow
Staufen: 1 x DFK and 1 x Pavise Xbow
Magdeburg: 2 x DFK.

This will leave us with approximately 1800 florins next season of which 1000 florins has already been requested by Swabia to build defensive forts as part of the relief of Dijon.

Regional Report

Swabia

The relief of Dijon continues. The maneuvers being undertaken to avoid provoking a French attack is causing things to move slowly, however von Luxemburg is now moving down towards Staufen where the 2nd SHA is starting to take shape. With 3 regiments of Teuton's available next season this should allow a credible defense to be mounted by the Duke and his commanders. The French forces however are some of the most formidable ever seen in the history of warfare and it will take some time to bring the western front under control.

von Bohmen is doing an excellent job with his militia and gunpowder units in Bruges and it is hope he can continue to allow the focus to be around Staufen by conducting a very independent defense of Swabia's northern holdings.

Franconia

Count Fritz has set the defense of our northern front against the incoming Danes.

Unfortunately the situation around Magdeburg is not so positive. No offensive actions were taken this season and that should incur some problems in the coming defensive season. Recruiting continues as the final touches are put on the 1st FHA.

Austria

Johann Zirn has lifted the siege of Vienna however he is now exposed to the considerable Hungarian forces around Zagreb. His militia and cannon army will have to be reformed if he is going to be able to take offensive actions against the Hungarian's. In a fit of courage that I still can't believe he has given me permission to refit his force with infected troops from Vienna next season. I'm still loathed to do this because at the moment he and von Hapsburg are free of the plague.

Lord Becker is now alone in his defence of Prague. The small army of the late Lorenz Zirn has been integrated into the army defending Prague.

Jan Zirn is heading towards Vienna to link up with his brother and be assessed for knighthood and command potential.

As for myself I have gone on the offensive and pinned the last remaining Venetian stack against the wall of Durazzo. I can only hope the small force to the east of me in the mountains does not sneak behind me and try for Ragusa again.

Bavaria

Prinz Dieter's recapture of Rome is heartening news. He will be remaining in Rome for the rest of the season and will hopefully continue north next year.

Count Karolinger and Duke Lothar have moved BHA Gerhard towards the eastern bridge over the Poe.

BHA Otto commanded by Sir Hermann and Count Elrach are positioned west of Milan while the Kaisers army is now positioned east of Milan. Both forces will hold here to best respond to the Greek and French forces in the coming defensive season.

Outremer

The Viceroy has moved into the mountains above Adana. The Greek force approaching will more than likely force him to retreat however they may balk at the army given the very defensive position it has.

von Salzgitter has remained on the Iron Bridge and has received reinforcement with another three regiments due next season.

Outremer seem relatively secure for the moment but that maybe an illusion created by our enemies.

Chancellor's Notes:

The season was a qualified success overall but the death of two Austrian nobles is a sickening price to pay for little gain on our easter front.

The budget prediction for nest season is 1800 florins with 1000 florins earmarked for the defense of Swabia. What that means gentlemen is that we are out of money and out of further troops than what you can see here.

We must survive and eek out our victories with ever decreasing resources. Again the only hoe I can see is for more decisive victories on the Italian peninsula next season. The ripple on effect of nearly four full armies on the Swabian and Austrian fronts will have a dramatic affect and will flow on in due course to Franconia.

This remains my prime objective in the years to come.

God speed and long live the Reich.

Save as of the end of our offensive season:

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1352-10.zip (http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1352-9.zip)

Defensive season:

My Lords we have but one battle in the defensive season:

Duke von Salza and the 1st SHA was attacked by a French stack.

The 1st SHA and Duke von Salza have been defeated outside Dijon!! The Duke was pursued to such an extent that he had to take refuge in Bern. This city has the plague so it is highly likely that he will become infect.

The 1st SHA sustained nearly 70% casualties and is now south of Dijon. I have received no word from it captain at this time.

In addition to this, Milan, Bologna and Magdeburg have all come under siege.

This concludes the report for 1352.

FactionHeir

01-16-2008, 23:53

AG's post links to the old save still as he only updated the link's name, but not the link itself.

This link actually leads to save #10 (rather than 9):
http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1352-10.zip

econ21

01-17-2008, 00:03

Save #10 is still in our turn - presumably, Warluster should press end turn and await the French attack?

If he is successful, Factionheir suggested there may be a second French attack on him - so perhaps he should wait for the French turn to finish before pressing ESC and saving the game.

Please take a post-battle screen shot of the results, Warluster, and a battle report would be nice. I don't think it is going to be an easy fight. :hide:

Cecil XIX

01-17-2008, 00:08

My lord, it has just occurred to me that we could be using spies to stifle the Poles. By placing our agents in Breslau and Krakow and instructing them to forment unrest, we can force the Poles to station more of their forces within the settlements in order to avod riot and rebellion.

OOC: By the way, does the plague just go away when you have a general and an army inside a settlement?

FactionHeir

01-17-2008, 00:09

Save #10 is still in our turn - presumably, Warluster should press end turn and await the French attack?

Looks like it, although this makes things less reliable.
I would rather prefer econ end turn and upload the save at the pre-battle screen as he has all the files from the fix I presume (rather than only the player side files). Otherwise WL can make sure that all (rather than some) files from the zip archive of the fix are properly installed and working.

Reason I say this is because I found it odd that it wasn't the pre-battle screen when I downloaded it and upon ending turn the French did not attack Warluster but instead parked their single king in front of him.

Oh, and one thing I forgot to mention (I sent WL a PM about it actually). Please move the spy (Philipp Ruesdorf) towards Metz to incite rebellion.

econ21

01-17-2008, 03:09

All right - I moved the spy and pressed end turn. There is a battle for Warluster:

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1352-11.zip

Warluster has until 48 hours from the time of AussieGiant's end of turn report (#519) to fight the battle or it will be autoresolved. No proxying. Let the French turn play out then press escape and save the game so that AussieGiant can see the start of turn messages.

AussieGiant

01-17-2008, 10:01

OOC:

Apologies guy's. I played through the AI's turn twice with the same result so I uploaded the save right before Warluster should have pressed the end turn button as he was the only fight.

Next time I'll go right up to the battle screen before saving and posting.

AussieGiant

01-18-2008, 21:12

CHANCELLOR'S REPORT 1354

The Office of the Exchequer

World Events:

The merchants guild requested a guild house be built in Bologna. As much as it pains me to refuse them I did. With limited resources I did not want to invest 50% of our budget on this one item.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1354/medieval22008-01-1820-48-14-28.jpg

The plague continues to infect 90% of our Reich. This year the Exchequers Office has confirmed 31 614 thousand soul's died last season. On top of that another 7300 soldiers have also perished. This is an increase over last year by 15%

Incredibly the Office of the Royal Surgeons has confirmed that not one Noble died last year and in fact only one of our spy's fell victim to the plague. Please find the details of the reports below.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1354/medieval22008-01-1820-48-21-53.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1354/medieval22008-01-1820-56-04-56.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1354/medieval22008-01-1820-56-11-50.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1354/medieval22008-01-1820-56-15-54.jpg

Our resources continued to fall bit by bit. The treasury has reported a measly 293 florins are available this year. I've added to this substantially through some creative work with the Russians. Details are outlined later in the report.

https://img87.imageshack.us/img87/7159/0000xq8.jpg

I has a small run in with the Pope this year. He ask me to return Rome...

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1354/medieval22008-01-1820-49-26-46.jpg

It seems the regular meetings I have with the Preferati are paying off. Hermann the Missionary, and a fellow German I might add, managed to translate my response from “£$^”£ OFF you dirty old sack of “£$%!” into something more delicate.

The Pope official response to me via letter was a small expression of disappointment.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1354/medieval22008-01-1820-55-39-98.jpg

In a fit of sheer stupidity on the part of the Russian's I managed to extort another 7000 plus florins from them in exchange for fake Imperial Maps and a tribute of 300 florins over the next three turns. This time I used the field report of the incident in Ragusa where I contracted the plague to threaten them with war because they infected me. Some arm twisting and shouting yielded another excellent result for us. We now have some 7000 plus florins in the treasury this year.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1354/medieval22008-01-1909-31-54-07-1.jpg

Here is the situation untouched at the beginning of 1354 my Lords. Begin your planning and I will come back to you all with my recommendations.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1354-2.zip

1354 Offensive Season recommendations from the Chancellor's office:

The War Office:

My Lords, 1354 is an opportunity to lift the sieges we have been placed in and to try and recover our positions in Swabia and Franconia, while finally finish off the Greeks on the Italian peninsula. I have moved our spy's to better scout out the opportunities and threats for this season.

With this in mind I am proposing the following:

Franconia:

Bresch: Yet again Magdeburg is besieged by a superior force and there seems little hope of sallying effectively. Honestly my lords I will not be investing anymore resources in the Duchy due to the total lack of progress shown there.

Fritz: The Danes are approaching. This is your last chance to set the defenses along the beach before all hell breaks loose. The two armies of some of the finest they haev fielded to date.

Swabia:

von Salza and 1st SHA are now pinned against the walls of Bern by two very strong French field armies. However in some good news Staufen is not curerntly threatened and Bruges is not under siege.

von Luxemburg: You are near Staufen and the French are not appoaching, but your Duke and the 1st SHA are in a dire situation at the moment. Let me know your plans.

von Salza: You are being manouvered by an asute French general named Sorel. He has two field armies under his command and I believe he is intending to do harm to your person. What are your suggestions.

Ruppel The relief force has been intercepted by the French general Sorel. von Luxemburg now seems your next best option for relief.

von Bohmen You are free of siege for the year. Do you have any plans?

Bavaria:

Milan and Bologna are besieged plus two highly trained French field army's are approaching from the west. The initiative seems to have been lost. We need to get it back.

Kaiser: I would link with BHA Otto and attack the Greek force besieging Milan. After that both of you should try to block the French field army's from attacking unopposed.

Erlach: Assist the Kaiser in attacking the Greeks besieging Milan, or take the initiative and do it yourself.

Lothar: The Greek force besieging Bologna can be beaten in my opinion. I would lift the siege.

Prinz Dieter: Again you are free to move north. Let me know what you wish to do.

Austria:

Johann Zirn: You've lifted the siege of Vienna but now two Hungarian field armies are approaching. You must decide what to do.

Lord Becker: You are free of siege and Breslau seems lightly defended. Remaining passive will only invite the same results as before.

The Venetian's have scattered before my advance on Durazzo. I am of two minds as to whether I should lay siege or ensure Ragusa is not attacked.

Outremer:

The Greeks seem to have collectively called off any offensive plans against us. You seem to have the opportunity to reorganise and reset your strategy.

Viceroy: I have no suggestions at this time.

von Salzgitter: I have no suggestions at this time.

Northnovas

01-19-2008, 15:18

Lord Chancellor:

I wish the the 1st AHA to be moved west of Vienna at the bridge and Jan Zirn to join the army. That will make 3 commanders but we are all healthy at this point.

https://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa55/northnovas/Johann/1stAHA.jpg

I will corresponde recruiting options. Hopefully this position will give me sometime to rebuilt before engaging the Hungarians.

TinCow

01-19-2008, 16:47

Two bloody gold armies and a silver outside Milan?! Where in the hells are they getting these men from!

I had better do what I can while I can gain any kind of advantage. I am moving to relieve Bologna. (Taking save)

TinCow

01-19-2008, 17:37

Bologna has been relieved due to the valor of our heavy cavalry on the open field. It was a pleasure to command an army with such a contingent, as I have not been able to do so for many years. I will report the exact casualty figures in time, but in general the losses were confined to the near total destruction of three units: one regiment of Militia Spearmen from Bologna, one regiment of Teutonic Knights, and the unit of experienced Cannons from Kaiser Elberhard's old force. I regret that the loss of this last unit was due to a tactical error on my part. One member of this unit escaped alive and he has custody of the cannons in Bologna. He is an extremely experienced artilleryman and perhaps if he were taken to an appropriate gunsmith, he would be able to pass on his knowledge to new recruits. It would be a shame to lose his expertise altogether.

I have now moved my entire army into the rear of the Byzantine force outside of Milan. My men are too tired to begin the attack themselves, but we stand ready to aid any army which attacks the besiegers. If the armies of the Kaiser and Count Erlach were both to join in this attack, we would surely overwhelm the Byzantines with our numbers. I urge this course of action.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1354-3.zip

Ramses II CP

01-19-2008, 17:53

Chancellor I have just read over the report from Herman von Franconia regarding the army composition I'll be facing. It is disheartening to note that my army, composed almost entirely of militia spearmen, will be faced with so much professional heavy infantry and cavalry. I am not one to complain or beg help, but given that enough of my army must survive this encounter to face the superior force behind it I must ask if some funds could be freed to enhance my cavalry by hiring on the German Mercenary Knights in the region.

My intent was to move to attack our enemies on their home ground as I feel I am best used on the offensive, however their position relative to my own makes this impossible. Instead I must hope to bait them into a foolish action so that they surrender the initiative to me. I would ask that my two forces be combined, despite the inevitable spread of the plague, and moved into the forest on the easternmost island southeast of Arhus. With a little luck, and counting on the typical Danish 'send in the axemen' level of strategy, this will allow me to ambush their army while it is still in column.

I believe in order to assure that they come to me I must leave them some bait, so I would further order that my depleted companies of spearmen be topped off, and the small remnant of a company be parked just south of the woods as bait, in the clear and isolated. The initial combining of the camps and movement into the woods would best be done under cover of darkness, to preserve secrecy from the Danes camped on the coast.

If necessary I can have maps drawn up and sent to you to aid in the coordination of this move.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

AussieGiant

01-19-2008, 22:38

The Chancellor

Fritz!! Hermann £$%£"ing who!!? I have your plans clear in my mind. I will do as you ask. Exactly how many regiments and of what type to you want as mercenary reinforcements?

Duke Lothar. I've read the reports. Well done!!

The artilleryman has been identified by my staff. I've placed him under house arrest until such time as he has selected and trained a full compliment of men.

I might add here gentlemen that if you ask me first then you have a better chance of getting what you want...that might make things a little more urgent.

Ramses II CP

01-20-2008, 00:10

Herman von Franconia is the spy we have in Danish lands, he's been trailing the Danish armies as they march south. (Trying to be IC a bit :yes: )

As far as mercenaries, all that I surely need are the German Mercenary Knights, the heavy cavalry. If the funds can be spared, I would further appreciate more crossbowmen, though I do not believe I need any more spearmen for this battle. Even from ambush my men will be badly outnumbered and outclassed, but I have hope that we can carry the day.

If my assessment is correct the trouble will then be the army following this one. If Herman's reports are to be believed it is of the highest quality. I hope to delay this force until the plague has passed at Arhus, and then perhaps fall back to defend the huge walls there.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 00:27

Herman von Franconia is the spy we have in Danish lands, he's been trailing the Danish armies as they march south. (Trying to be IC a bit :yes: )

OOC: Yes, I'm also being a little Arnoldish. I realised it was the spy but in the first instance I had no idea. What I usually do then is role play that instance as Arnold and then work out OOC who you were talking about.

IC:

The Chancellor

Steward Fritz, you're our finest general...although I personally have no £$"£ing idea how you have exceeded me but I'm just being competitive.

If you can pull this off, I'll have to buy you a villa near Venice!! I have just the right one in mind...AND, it comes with staff...from Denmark...tall...mainly blonde...very nice conversationalist I find....nice wine also.

-edit-

taking the save for Fritz and Johann maneuvers.

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 00:59

Johann, Fritz,

You're orders have been completed. Here is the situation. Lord Fritz, the Imperial Surgeon has confirmed the worst...you are infected.

I'm sorry...

Lord Becker,

I have placed our spy in Krakow.

The same was attempted at Breslau however the bloody idiot was killed trying to enter through the eastern gates hiding in a body bag!!! At least they could throw him in the grave without having to do any further work.

Lets see what happens in Krakow.

I've also decided to siege Durazzo. I'm hoping the Venetian captains now flock to the walls of the city for a decisive battle that will end this part of the conflict.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1354-5.zip

FactionHeir

01-20-2008, 01:14

I would like to request that our spy infiltrate Metz at once and if possible be supported by more younger spies to incite a revolt against the French to divert their attention.

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 10:12

The Chancellor

Count Ruppel. I will do as you ask and see about recruiting another spy this season.

econ21

01-20-2008, 13:04

My Lord Chancellor,

There are two alternative moves my force could take.

The offensive option is to combine with the Staufen garrison and the Teutons from Frankfurt to strike the half strength French army outside Metz. I believe I could destroy that force with modest cost this turn.

The defensive option is that I proposed for Duke von Salza last turn: my uninfected force guard the bridge to Staufen. I am willing to command a plague-ridden force, but there would be no need for that this turn. The Teutons be moved to Staufen and there, with the garrison, could reinforce me in case the French attempt to storm the bridge. I believe with these forces I could withstand any French offensive this year.

Although my heart bids me strike towards Metz, my head reasons that this would be folly. Both of the two full strength French armies pursuing the SHA could return to Metz this year and either could defeat my force, even after it was augmented with the Staufen garrison. Regardless, my force would not be sufficient to defeat the lancers besieging Dijon next year.

Reluctantly, my recommendation is for the defensive option, although I will undertake the offensive action with gusto if you deem it the better one. I await your orders.

Now, my Lord, I must make recommendations above my station. You are free to ignore them as presumptious but the situation in Swabia is critical and these are my opinions as someone on the ground. I recommend the following actions:

(1) Recruit the mercenary spear regiment for my force for 660 gold. Currently, Staufen is unable to train even peasants. I fear my spear militia will not stand against French heavy cavalry.

(2) Construct the mustering hall for 600 gold in Staufen. The barracks in Staufen was destroyed in the cataclysm. It is urgent that it be repaired so that Swabia can again recruit spearmen to counter the many French heavy cavalry.

(3) Hire three regiments at Staufen, including a mounted crossbow regiment. [OOC: the historical army rules are going to be a constraint on what you pick with no spears to make up the numbers...] I recommend that together my force and the Staufen garrison be brought up to strength so that it can match a full strength French army. There are three such enemy armies standing between me and Dijon - right now, I do not believe I could defeat one. I firmly believe Swabia is currently the weakest theatre and faces the strongest enemy. With my force be called the second SHA or merely an Imperial army matters not, but Swabia needs a second field army now.

(4) Withdraw Duke von Salza and the SHA east of Bern. With von Salza on reserve duty, it would be folly to expose the SHA to battle until a general on active duty can be found. I believe the French will sooner besiege Bern than pursue the SHA.

(5) Order Hugo der Cervole to the SHA so that it has a general on active duty. I had planned to perform that duty myself but the French pursuit of the SHA has cut me off from it - I cannot reach it without going via Nuremburg, which would take many turns.

(6) Replace Hugo der Cervole as "tribune" to the Kaiser's army with Hermann Steffen. Even more so than the SHA, it is essential that the Kaiser's army have a general on active duty. Hermann has proved he can perform that role in an exemplary manner.

I apologise for being forward on these matters, but the situation is critical.

Your servant

Welf von Luxemburg

PS: I have heard from Prinz Dieter - Rome is too disloyal and Florence too unstable for him to continue his march north this year. He requests that a small church be built to combat the subversion influence of Orthodoxy and he will stay to pacify the city this year.

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 13:37

The Chancellor

Are you being channeled by the late Duke Leopold? Because if you are, I have people that can find that "£$%"£ out and help you Welf. It might all be fine and dandy now because you need all this military knowledge, but later...there were issues with my father and some of them were not public knowledge. Let me know, I have some clergymen that can help you.

So, if you attack that half stack there seems to be only one stack able to get to you in the defensive season and that is the one directly commanded by Sorel. I'd like it dead what do you think?

As for the readjustment of the commanders...Erlach has not been very active lately so if Hermann leaves him we have another army without a commander and being approached by two French field armies. Additionally, after studying my marching orders, Sir Hugo can't make the SHA this turn, so it would have to be the next.

Thoughts?

FactionHeir

01-20-2008, 13:48

I wish to know when the emperor's army will be headed towards Swabia. I believe the emperor mentioned aiding our duchy after Milan would be retaken.

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 14:50

The Chancellor

Count Ruppel,

The Emperor's army will head there as soon as possible given the objectives we need to accomplish in northern Italy. It doesn't help that the French have chosen to send two of their finest armies into the region.

econ21

01-20-2008, 15:36

My Lord Chancellor,

Duke von Salza currently leads most of Swabia's military assets but is unable to use them effectively because he is on reserve duty. I understand General der Cervole would prefer to stay with the Kaiser's army, but Swabia needs at least one general able to actually use what little military resources it has.

If Count Erlach is unable to command his Bavarian Army, then he should declare himself on reserve duty. But regardless, the best strategy to reclaim North Italy would be for his army to work in conjunction with the Kaiser's army as Sir Hermann Steffen has demonstrated. I believe that Sir Hermann is more than capable of commanding both the Kaiser's army and the BHA in conjunction. If he is not, then Duke Lothar himself is in the vicinty to provide aid.

Contrast this with the Swabian situation - Duke von Salza is permanently on reserve duty, Count Ruppel is imprisoned in Djoin, Count Bohmen is far away in Bruges and I am cut off from the SHA thanks to its retreat before two French armies. We need General der Cervole or we will lose Bern and be further than ever from relieving Dijon.

As for my own forces movements, if I strike at the half army near Metz, you say that only Sorel's army could reach me. Perhaps your military intelligence is greater than mine as I would imagine the additional army accompanying Sorel could also backtrack. But regardless - I do not fear being attacked by two full French armies. The French are not competent enough to manage that. However, Sorel's force alone would be twice my force even if combined with the Staufen garrison and Teutons. Perhaps I could best him, but there would be precious left of my force. I would rather we offer battle on advantageous terms. Even waiting just one more turn for another three regiments from Staufen might make a difference.

Nonetheless, if you wish me to march on Metz this year, I would be happy to oblige,

Welf von Luxemburg

gibsonsg91921

01-20-2008, 15:56

I would find it most acceptable if Hermann Steffen became my tribune with Hugo de Cervole's need elsewhere. He has proven himself a great commander.

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 16:21

The Chancellor

My Kaiser, Welf,

You've convinced me Welf. I'll not have you attack that half field army. I will take your defensive recommendation instead. Welf you're now temporarily attached to to the Chancellors Office so as to command the force being created around Staufen.

Sir Hugo, you're a Swabian and your Duke and Duchy need you. You're going to head for the 1st SHA.

The 2nd SHA has been nominally the force protecting Bruge, this is now confirmed.

Sir Hermann Steffen, you're now the Kaisers Imperial attache, take command of the Imperial army and end the siege around Milan.

-edit-

taking save to start juggling.

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 16:53

The Chancellor

Welf, there are no mercenary spearmen for you to hire. I have moved you onto the bridge and the Imperial troops are directly behind you.

I have not set recruiting in Staufen yet, plus there is a Polish force approaching Frankfurt. The three regiments of Teuton's could block this force or move towards you..they are plagued. What do you wish to do?

Ruppel, the spy died entering Metz...

I've lost two this year.

Count Erlach I've also repositioned you to the foothills of the alps should either of the two French armies attack.

Sir Hermann Steffen, you are now with the Kaiser and it would be prudent to attack the Greeks now.

Viceroy do you want mercenary reinforcements?

Johann Zirn,

the northern most Hungarian army is much closer than you indicated in your reports. Prepare yourself.

A Church has been consecrated in Rome.

situation is as follows:

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1354-8.zip

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 16:57

Chancellor Report 1354 continued

The Office of the Exchequer

A merchant was recruited in Antioch. A church built in Rome. A mustering hall in Staufen.

The War Office

The offensive season another three engagements.

Duke Lothar has relieved the siege of Bologna and the repositioned himself to allow reinforcement of the sitaution around Milan.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1809210&postcount=236

I successfully attack and sacked Daruzzo. Our coffers are large and the Venetian's are on the back foot with only one field army left. I set up a provisional governor in the city and then left.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1809694&postcount=237

Sir Hermann Steffen relieved Milan...but the cost has been prohibitive.

LINK to follow

Recruiting:

Mercenaries:

Fritz: 1 x Mercenary Knights
Matthias: 3 x Armenian Archers

Frankfurt: 1 x Teutonic Knights
Staufen: 1 x DFK; 1 x Pavise Xbow; 1 x Mounted Xbow.
Innsbruck: 1 x DFK; 1 x Armoured Spearmen; 1 x Pavise Xbow

This will leave us with approximately 7000 florins next season.

Regional Report

Swabia

von Luxemburg has arrived in the Duchy and is standing firm on the bridge outside Staufen. He is reinforced with elements of the Staufen garrison, and his own plague free units from Nuremburg. It is hoped he can hold the bridge against any French attacks for the time being.

Count Ruppel remains in Dijon with still no sign of any pending relief.

von Bohmen is now no longer under seige, however due to his isolation he can do little except perhaps leave the city and head into the country side to better defend the northern part of Swabia.

Duke von Salza has retired to the east leaving Bern exposed. That is sadly the plan until Sir Hugo can arrive to better organise the army. Sir Hugo has left the Kaiser's army and is now marching directly towards the Kaiser and the 1st SHA.

An unsuccessfuly attempt was made to infiltrate Metz. The spy is dead and honestly if he can't make his way into the city with out getting killed then I don't really need spy's like that.

Franconia

Count Fritz has set the defense of our northern front against the incoming Danes. They are approaching with caution and do seem to be aware that something is not right on the eastern most island.

Unfortunately the situation around Magdeburg is not so positive, AGAIN. Three of Franconia's general's including the Duke remain in the Citadel and I have received no word from them all season. The Polish may attack and if they do I fear the worst.

Austria

Johann Zirn has now taken up a defensive position on the bridge west of Vienna. The two approaching Hungarian armies are forcing this approach do to the mismatch in forces at the moment. Jan Zirn has now formed on this force. Johann now has three fifth of the Duchies nobility with him...and it's future. It is hope there is no repeat of last season's mortality rate in Austria.

Lord Becker is now alone in his defence of Prague. Polish forces are gearing up for another assault. The city of Breslau caught and killed one of our spy's attempting to enter. Krakow on the other hand has one of our spy's inside trying ferment dissent.

As for myself I have gone on the offensive and sacked Daruzzo. The coffers received a much needed boost. I've left the city to defend itself and gone back into the hills to try and defeat the last remaining Venetian field army.

Bavaria

Prinz Dieter's has remained in Rome due to the instability of the our old capital. It is hoped that he will head north next season.

Count Karolinger and Duke Lothar relieved the city of Bologna and then immediately force marched themselves to Milan to assist in the assault on the Greek forces there.

Hermann Steffen has been attached to the Kaiser's Imperial army as Sir Hugo has headed north to assist in the command of the 1st SHA. This reshuffle of army commanders is designed to give us a little more momentum in the coming campaign seasons.

The results have been impressive but they could be fatal. Sir Hermann defeated the Greek force around Milan but all three armies are now but a shell of their former selves.

None of our armies are in a position to hold out against the on coming French field forces. In addition to this Count Karolinger has been killed in action. BHA Otto is now leaderless.

Outremer

The Viceroy has held his position while the Greeks swan about like bloody idiots. I can only thank god they are as they still have military superiority in the region. They just aren't using it.

von Salzgitter has remained on the Iron Bridge and has received three regiments of reinforcements.

We are waiting to see what happens next.

Chancellor's Notes:

The season was another qualified success.
At this point I have to say the following.

It seems the plague is affecting our command ability to an extent I have never seen in my life.

Commanders are unresponsive, showing little drive or commitment and essentially they are holding back the well trained men of our Reich. I never would have said this before but it is true. The weakest link in our military at the moment is the nobility and not the technology, numbers or moral of our troops.

I'm ashamed to say this but I hope the next generation of nobles do not follow our current crop of senior commanders and field officers. This comment might be unfair to some of you but as a whole I feel it my duty to point this out to all of you.

Defensive season to follow:

There were no defensive battle my lords. This concludes the series of reports on 1354.

FactionHeir

01-20-2008, 17:09

I am surprised and disappointed the spy died for he seemed quite capable and would have distracted the French from their offensive. I feel for his kin.

vxc he died at 95% CoS :wall:

econ21

01-20-2008, 17:34

Welf von Luxemburg

My Lord Chancellor,

At Staufen, I would recommend recruiting one regiment of Mounted Crossbowmen, one of pavise crossbowmen and one of dismounted Imperial knights.

The Teutons would be extremely useful in Swabia, but I had not recognised the threat to Frankfurt. It must be irritating in the extreme to see three of Franconia's generals entombed in Magdeburg, while the Poles freely march westwards even to the Rhine.

If the Magdeburg three cannot be roused to break free of their bonds, I wonder if Count Becker would consider marching west to strike the Poles advancing on Frankfurt? Travelling alone, he could attack this year. The three regiments of Teutons and perhaps some of the Frankfurt militia, could be waiting behind the Poles to join him in destroying them. The Poles are a small force of only a couple of hundred. After they are routed, the Teutons could begin the march to Swabia, although perhaps one could return with Count Becker in reward for his efforts.

Yours

Welf

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 17:44

The Chancellor

Indeed von Luxemburg. Of course the conditions for that to happen are that general's are available to take action.

As the offensive season is about to close after an extended period of good weather I fear Lord Becker will not be able to do this as the snow is coming this evening I believe.

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 17:48

The Chancellor

Hell!! I'm going to attack Daruzzo so at least we have at least two engagements this season.

Taking the save.

Victory. I sacked the place and left.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1354-9.zip

Ramses II CP

01-20-2008, 18:15

Believe me gentlemen, if I could defeat the Danes and then ride south to ward Frankfurt I would, but such is not possible. Is Madgeburg under siege this year? I was under the impression that Tancred was again prepared to take a more active role as a general. Perhaps as soon as the siege is lifted he should be removed from the citadel and placed in a more active role.

It would pain me greatly to surrender Arhus back to the Danes, but if such a move is necessary to consolidate our lines I will consider it. The city is wealthy, the people are content under my rule, and are even coming to consider themselves citizens of the Reich, those who survive the plague anyway, but they are not yet Germans. If they must be sacrificed for the greater good, then, as you all well know, my hands will be steady on the knife.

Alternately if at some point in the coming years raids on Oslo and Stockholm could be made legal, I might just be able to drive the Danes back permanantly.

(So we need more active generals, or fewer enemies, right? I can arrange one of those things, if the borders can be held behind me. It would be a fitting last quest for an aging Fritzy and could provide plenty of funds.) :laugh4:

:egypt:

GeneralHankerchief

01-20-2008, 19:22

Taking the save to kill the Greeks near Milan.

GeneralHankerchief

01-20-2008, 20:39

Result:

https://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n231/GeneralHankerchief/KotR/kotr_209.jpg

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1354-10.zip

More detailed explanation to come in the OOC thread.

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 20:44

The Chancellor

Well done Sir Hermann.

But the price has been incredible. All three armies are in no fit shape to defend against the oncoming French.

I must ponder the best course of action to ensure we do not lose members of our nobility in the coming defensive season.

********
Taking the save.

That's it for the offensive season gentlemen.

Cecil XIX

01-20-2008, 21:11

My Duke, after careful consideration I still cannot make an attempt on Breslau. As The Reich is Poland's only enemy, and Breslau their main point of entry into the Reich, I would have to face their nation's entire military with the exception of the forces attacking Magdeburg. If I had a full army at my command it would not be so dangerous, but with the forces I have now victory is uncertain, and defeat could give the Poles the momentum to take Prague, and then threaten Vienna and Nuremburg.

As it stands, there are three things that are preventing us from marshalling the forces necessary to assault Breslau. If this plague were to subside and normal trade were to resume, if Franconia was able to must a force of it's own to act in concert with mine, or if the Byzantines were expelled from Italy and we had one less front to spend money on, it might be worth attempting.

As things are now, it is difficult just to hold them here at Prague. To someone who is defensively minded like myself, attacking Silesia would be a more would be even more difficult. Perhaps in the future, but for now I must subside on whatever reinforcements you can spare.

Also, I must congratulate you on taking Durazzo. Looking at the maps, allow me to suggest that Durazzo not quite be abandoned. Even if the city cannot be held, it seems that you can force the Venetians to fight there rather then at Ragusa. Indeed, if the Venetian army retakes Durazzo then you can either trap them inside the city or defeat them wholesale. There may not be any other armies in the immediate area.

AussieGiant

01-20-2008, 21:18

The Chancellor

Lord Becker. Your insight is as always very measured and accurate. I agree with your stance in Prague. All I would ask you is to hold with the forces you have so that Johann and I can deal with our own fronts and then once concluded come to your aid.

Cecil XIX

01-20-2008, 21:38

Thank you my Duke. Fortunately the Poles have made no movements towards Prague in the past two years. Let us pray that trend continues.

AussieGiant

01-21-2008, 20:19

CHANCELLOR'S REPORT 1356

The Office of the Exchequer

World Events:

I refused an offer to build a Master Theologeon's Guild in Milan. Again our finances are not permiting me to take the opportunities while there is so much of threat to our lands.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-13-45-31.jpg

The plague is finally waning. The Exchequers Office has confirmed 16 500 thousand soul's died last season. Another 5000 soldiers have also perished. This is a steady reduction from last season and I hope it continues.

While this is good news the Imperial Surgeons Office is not having as much success in preventing deaths.

Three merchants and one spy also succumbed to the black death. We can ill afford to lose these men as they directly affect our economy and our ability to gather intelligence on our enemies.

In the worst news to date Lukas Godwinson has perished in Magdeburg!!

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-22-22-96.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-22-16-65.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-21-57-67.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-21-54-45.jpg

The Pope seems pleased with us...but I have no £$%£ing idea why. i was thinking of tithing to him soon so maybe he's jumped the gun a bit with his feelings on the matter.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-21-26-62.jpg

On the flips side he's asked me to stop shedding Venetian blood. I told him it would all be over around Daruzzo before his deadline so there is no need to worry himself overly with the thought of excommunicating us.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-22-04-04.jpg

On the other hand the Egyptian are holding us in a dim view at the moment...again I have no idea why and I could really give a fly £$^£ at a rolling donut either.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-21-22-73.jpg

It does seem as if our economy is steadying. The deaths are reducing our overheads it seems.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-22-11-93.jpg

By using the same insane methodology as last season the following report came across my desk. We are doing well it seems. Who £"$%ing works this shiet out is beyond me but it did seem to please the Chancellors Office.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-22-08-64.jpg

The construction investments are starting to pay off.

The following structures where completed

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1356/medieval22008-01-2021-21-35-45.jpg

Finally there are no less that four new sieges this season.

The French have layed siege to Milan, Genoa and Bern while the Hungarians have finally decided Zagreb is worth an attempt.

Here is the situation untouched at the beginning of 1356 my Lords. Begin your planning and I will come back to you all with my recommendations.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1356.zip

CHANCELLOR'S REPORT 1352 to be continued:

Ramses II CP

01-21-2008, 22:17

Chancellor Arnold, the Danes have proven more cowardly than I anticipated and refused the crossing despite facing only one plagued, depleted company of militia spearmen. They are the greater fools for it, as they have now brought together all the substantial military might in their nation and placed it before me. I will destroy them, first by ambushing whichever force crosses first, and, if the second will come I will drive my weary men to blood them as much as possible before we retreat towards Arhus. They will pay in blood for every inch of German soil, no matter how freshly claimed, I swear it on my life.

To clarify my orders I have had my adjutant draw up a map. Also, please note that I have topped off the more experienced companies of crossbowmen to full from the less experienced ones, including rolling the entire 6 man company into the ranks of the veterans, and filling out the spearmen from the company which will again be left out as bait.

http://lh6.google.com/RosDalton/R5UI1Iz0-kI/AAAAAAAAIH8/bDH_CbmexI8/s800/0000.jpg

As to who is the greatest general, this is a matter of no consequence unless we someday come to face one another in the field. That would be a dark day, for it would surely result only from the utter failure of the Reich.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

econ21

01-22-2008, 00:12

Welf von Luxemburg:

My Lord Chancellor,

Bern is under siege and General der Cervole will not be able to reach the city this year.

I request permission to lead the First Swabian House Army to relieve Bern. My force on the bridge at Staufen cannot reach Bern except as reinforcements and I fear that if they march south, the two French armies around Metz will be able to take advantage of their absence to cross the Rhine and besiege the Swabian capital. If I am successful, I will endeavour to return to Staufen to block such a move and prepare our own offensive next year. [OOC: no idea if Welf will have the movement points remaining to make it back, but his force should be safe in Staufen for a turn.]

I realise that this request may appear to violate protocol, as Duke von Salza and Count Ruppel are the designated army commanders of SHA. However, neither commander is able to personally lead the army in the battle, nor is General der Cervole. I am willing to serve either as the Duke’s tribune or to see that he is escorted east, away from the risks of plague and battle.

Your servant,

Welf von Luxemburg

TinCow

01-22-2008, 03:28

There are few orders left to give. The situation in Bavaria is dire indeed. The most recent victory at Milan was Pyhrric. The only chance we have to repel the current assault is by combining both Bavarian armies with the Kaiser's army. The French army outside Milan is slightly less experienced than the one outside Genoa. Even then it would be a risky attack without a guarantee of success. I fully believe that it is totally impossible for us to defeat the French army outside Genoa.

So, should Kaiser Peter agree, I would like all three of our armies combined into one force. That force should sit outside the walls of Milan and come to the garrison's defense in the event of an assault. Under no circumstances should we engage them in the open field. That would risk the total destruction of our forces even if we were to emerge victorious. If we are to commit to battle once again, we must work to keep as much of our strength intact as possible. If Genoa falls while we pursue this plan, so be it. I see no other alternative at the moment. If my plan is agreed to, I would volunteer to lead this force personally. Neither the Kaiser nor any other Elector need be present. If they are needed elsewhere, they are free to depart, though I must emphasize that the Kaiser's few surviving men will be crucial to the defense.

gibsonsg91921

01-22-2008, 21:36

Milan will not fall. The Legion der Krone shall remain where specified by Duke Lothar. Until Bavaria is freed, the Legion der Krone shall not leave.

Prinz Dieter, I reccommend that you bring your army quickly and destroy any and all Greeks on your way. Execute all prisoners.

AussieGiant

01-22-2008, 21:49

1356 Offensive Season recommendations from the Chancellor's office:

The War Office:

My Lords, 1356 is here and we have a multitude of sieges in progress. We need to lift them as best we can and stabilise the Reich from further aggression against our cities.

With this in mind I am proposing the following:

Franconia:

Bresch: Yet again Magdeburg...I'm speechless and not interested in talking about it. Rotting away in there is beyond my understanding.

Fritz: I will comply with your recent request and lure then further in. If of course the trap doesn't work and both Danish armies are present then I will retreat you as best I can. If not you will have your chance to take one out.

Swabia:

von Salza You and the 1st SHA are east of Bern. I recommend letting your only available and active commander, Sir Welf, head south pick up the army and relieve the siege of Bern. Welf can then head back to the bridge west of Staufen. You will remain in the vicinity and link up with Sir Hugo arriving from the south.

von Luxemburg: See the recommendation above.

Ruppel Time is on your side and event are conspiring to prevent the siege from being lifted. Patience is all I ask.

von Bohmen You are free of siege for the year. Given your reserve status moving you to Antwerp is the best idea. I just pray the French don't come again soon.

Bavaria:

Kaiser: Erlach; Lothar Let me form an army from the three forces that remain. There are more forces in the Swabian theater and they need commanders. The Kaiser can head north to assist in the defense of Swabia. Erlach can stay in Bavaria or also head to Swabia. Hermann Steffen can also head to Swabia or Franconia to be an active commander.

Prinz Dieter: Again you are free to move north.

Austria:

Johann Zirn: The Hungarian's have pulled back I would wait and hope Vienna is cured. I will then give you the gunpowder units and militia to defeat them later.

Lord Becker: The Poles are approaching again. You can meet them in the field or remain behind your walls.

I will kill the final Venetian force this year and well before the Pope's deadline.

Outremer:

The Greeks have pulled back dramatically. Both Citadel's are free of infection.

Viceroy: Hold your position while I recruit clean troops for the assault on Nikosia.

von Salzgitter: Hold your position while I recruit clean troops.

Zim

01-22-2008, 21:56

A letter arrives from Outremer.

I have just received the wonderful news from Viceroy Matthias that both Outremer citadels are free of the plague. However, I think Matthias and my armies' are still contagious. It might be best if clean troops recruited in Acre be moved to Antioch (assuming it's free of the plague as well) rather than merged with my army until such a time as it is no longer contagious. The same for the Viceroy would seem wise, although that is his decision, of course.

GeneralHankerchief

01-22-2008, 21:59

Herrmann Steffen:

If there are any clean armies in Swabia, I shall depart to take command.

AussieGiant

01-22-2008, 22:18

The Chancellor

Sir Hermann,

There are basically no "clean" armies. But with the plague abating I expect this to change very soon. Therefore I would prefer at least two more active general in the Swabian Duchy for the pending round of battles.

Count von Salzgitter,

I will certainly not combine clean troops with any of your forces. At best they will be positioned to aid in battle as reinforcements.

GeneralHankerchief

01-22-2008, 22:33

Herrmann Steffen:

Considering the time it will take for me to arrive on the Swabian fronts, I'll leave now.

AussieGiant

01-22-2008, 22:44

The Chancellor

Thanks for the go ahead Sir Hermann. You'll receive specific orders very soon.

econ21

01-22-2008, 23:04

Taking the save.

econ21

01-23-2008, 00:47

Welf von Luxemburg:

My Lord Chancellor,

Bern has been relieved. Although the city's garrison took a beating, the 1st SHA got off more lightly than I could have hoped. I will provide a full account in due course.

https://img175.imageshack.us/img175/2055/bern1zo6.jpg (https://imageshack.us)

My expectation of being able to return to Staufen was over optimistic, so I sent the infected men in the field there to safety in the citadel while summoning the uninfected companies to me.

Your servant

Welf von Luxemburg

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1356-1.zip

gibsonsg91921

01-23-2008, 00:51

I shall remain in Bavaria if Duke Lothar needs me. Otherwise, I shall go to Swabia with Hermann.

Cecil XIX

01-23-2008, 04:59

My Duke, while I could engage the Polish force with a good chance of success I would like to wait until the next season. That would give me some time to receive reinforcements and conduct retraining, and the longer this army is in Bohemia the more time until another takes it's place.

I hope the there is room in the budget now to augment my forces, it would require less than one thousand florins at the most. Please review my situation and make whatever decision you see fit.

TinCow

01-23-2008, 13:06

Bavaria has a surplus of commanders and a deficit of armies. Count Erlach and myself are more than capable of handling the current situation, given that there is really only one army to command. It is worth noting that Prinz Dieter is also nominally in the Bavarian theatre of operations, though he is currently without the ability to advance north. I believe it would be entirely appropriate for both the Kaiser and my son, Herrmann, to depart for other fronts at this time if they are needed there.

AussieGiant

01-23-2008, 15:00

The Chancellor

Lothar, thank you for the approval of my request. Swabia has a great need for active commanders and given the current forces in Bavaria and Prinz Dieter availabilty to assist in the near future I think it is best.

I will move your son and the Kaiser along the same line of march as Sir Hugo.

gibsonsg91921

01-23-2008, 23:43

Then I shall depart Italy for France. Good luck, Duke of Bavaria.

AussieGiant

01-25-2008, 22:07

Offensive season and orders are over my Lords.

Taking the save 1356-1

AussieGiant

01-25-2008, 23:39

Chancellor Report 1356 continued

The Office of the Exchequer

Another merchant is being recruited in Antioch.
The church I accidentally bombed in Daruzzo is being repaired.
Garrison quarters in Staufen have been started.

Our standing with the Pope is steadily falling. With my final push on the Venetian's complete, it is hoped this does not fall any further. We simply do not have enough money to use the normal means of “acquiring” favour with his Holiness at the moment.

As mentioned previously the Black Death seems to be receding. Most importantly the Citadel's of Ragusa, Acre and Adana are now free of the pestilence. This is significant news as our economy is also recovering at the same time.

The War Office

The offensive season saw just two engagements.

Von Luxemburg has relieved the siege of Bern and is now outside its walls for protection with the 1st SHA in close proximity.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1812583&postcount=242

I successfully attack the last remaining field army on the beaches below Daruzzo.

It was a heroic victory, although I can't say why the royal scribes have decided it shall be remembered that way. This hopefully brings to a close the war with the Venetian's for the next few years. I will be heading north now to assist in the defence of Zagreb.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1814347&postcount=243

Recruiting:

Daruzzo: 1 x Spear Militia
Arhus: 1 x Xbow Militia
Innsbruck: 1 x DFK; 1 x Pavise Xbow
Adana: 2 x Pavise Xbow
Prague: 1 x Xbow Militia; 1 x Speak Militia
Bern: 1 x Spear Militia regiment was retrained.

Regional Report

Swabia

von Luxemburg went south and organised a multi command action against the French forces besieging Bern. In conjunction with the plagued 1st SHA, the Bern garrison and his own escort he managed to gain a decisive victory against the French.

Count Ruppel remains in Dijon with still no sign of any pending relief...still.

von Bohmen as he is no no longer under siege and in a reserve duty status he has been relcoated to Antwerp. This has affected the city of Bruge to some degree as he is an excellent administrator. As he has now left the governs report to me shows clear signs of corruption and mismanagement. This is causing our income to fall.

Duke von Salza has retired to the east and is heading to Nuremberg due to his reserve duty status.

Sir Hugo is nearly now with the 1st SHA, however it is still plagued so he will not be able to join with it immediately.

Franconia

Count Fritz is now perfectly placed to ambush the approaching Danes. I hope they fall for it this season and our most accomplished general can make them pay.

With one of the three Franconian nobles now dead, Magdeburg has become a charnel pit of death, disease and general waste. It is of great concern to me that this Duchy is slowly degrading before our eyes. If Magdeburg falls the heartland of our Reich will be exposed to the Polish.

Austria

Johann Zirn has maintained his defensive position on the bridge west of Vienna. The two Hungarian armies are now hesitating it seems, thus buying time for Vienna to throw of the plague and allow our health commanders to take command of the militia and gunpowder forces. Both Jan Zirn and Max von Hapsburg are with him.

Lord Becker is recruiting further forces in light of another impending Polish siege. One army is in position with a second more powerful looking ready to support the first.

I personally will now determine if the Venetian's have finally had enough of me. If they have I will head north to relieve Zagreb which I hope can hold out until I arrive.

Bavaria

Prinz Dieter's has left Rome and taken up position on the bridge just north of the city. Cavalry reinforcements from Palermo are now just behind him and I have sent the small mediterranean fleet back to the Citadel to pick up some plague free troops and bring them north.

Duke Lothar and Count Erlach are now stationed in the woods outside Milan with the newly formed “Otto/Gerhard Memorial Corp”. They are ready to surprise the French should they attack. Another three regiments from Innsbruck stand close at hand to assist. Unfortunately they are plagued and will have to be monitored to determine their health in the coming years.

Hermann Steffen and the Kaiser are now in the Alps heading towards Swabia.

Outremer

The Viceroy has maintained his position while the Greeks continue to prance around like complete fools.

von Salzgitter has also remained on the Iron Bridge.

We are still waiting to see what happens next.

Chancellor's Notes:

We experienced a lull in our engagements as the general level of momentum we had is slowly grinding to a halt. With the plague abating and the economy recovering it is hoped that the final years of this period begin a new era for us all.

Ironically my moniker has been a omen for the decades that have just past. The feeling of foreboding and dread has touched us all. This has been clearly seen in the very high number of deaths amongst the Reich's nobility.

Having said that my lords there does seem to be light shinning ever so slightly on us. With a last push from us all I believe we can see through this “dreadful” period in our history and be in a strong position for the future.

OOC: Situation before pressing end turn.
http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1356-4.zip

Defensive season to follow:

Please save directly after you have completed your defense. In the case of Magdeburg who/if anyone defends the Citadel then please save after the fight so I can do the start of 1358.

We have the following avatar lead battles this defensive season:

A) Milan is being assaulted. Duke Lothar and Count Erlach are able to defend the city if they are lucky. (TC, this is a city rush and you are on a 90 degree angle of attack to the French.)

B) Genoa is being assaulted. Sir Hans von Bavaria...it is grim. My the lord protect you.

C) [B]Sir Fritz. The Danes have fallen for the trap. It is a perfect ambush against the first Danish army. Destroy it. (OOC: at least it was when I went through the AI turn twice).

D) Duke Bresch, the future of Franconia is in the balance. The Poles are assaulting. Someone in the Citadel must rouse themselves to conduct the defense.

My Lords...prepare yourselves for a monumental end of the season!!!

Results

The first engagement saw Duke Lothar and Count Erlach conduct a perfect city defense from outside the walls. The managed to rush for the city square, hold off the French cavalry, then steady the fighting line and then let the crossbowman do their work. A truly excellent result give the circumstances.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1815058&postcount=244

The second engagement saw yet another fatality amongst the nobility of the Holy Roman Empire. Facing overwhelming odds and with only militia troops available, Hans von Bavaria fell in battle defending Genoa.

The third engagement involved our empires greatest commander doing what he does best. I wont go into the details but it was a Heroic victory. Read the field report for the full details.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1815777&postcount=245

Finally the Magdeburg story continues...however I am happy to report that Duke Bresch held of the Polish forces with aplomb and is now in a position to potentially move out of Magdeburg and enter the field.

This concludes the Chancellors report on 1356

TinCow

01-26-2008, 16:29

I'll fight as soon as I am able to today. That could be this morning, but it could also be later this afternoon. Will post ASAP when I'm done.

AussieGiant

01-26-2008, 17:04

I'll fight as soon as I am able to today. That could be this morning, but it could also be later this afternoon. Will post ASAP when I'm done.

Hi TC, you got my PM about ending the turn and then being first up? just wanted to check in case you look at the save and raise an eyebrow.

TinCow

01-26-2008, 17:49

AussieGiant

01-26-2008, 19:48

Yeah, I took a quick look at it. I appreciate giving it to me like that since I can still shuffle the forces a tiny bit. I can make another slot by combining two spear units, thus giving me control over another of those depleted militia units in the other army. I've got to run out to the optometrist now, but will fight battle when I get back this afternoon.

Great TC. That's what I thought after setting you up terribly for the last city engagement.

Good to hear you could tweak it a little more to your liking.

Cheers
AG

TinCow

01-26-2008, 21:53

Battle fought. Beforehand I shuffled the units around a bit and also moved the 'extras' in the small army nearby so that they would join the battle too, since every man was needed. I left them on AI control, though, so that they will all come in at the same time. Battle summary:

Immediately rushed all units to the town square when they appeared, except the mounted crossbowmen who rode around the walls to shoot at the French as they entered the city. They did a decent amount of damage from here throughout the battle and distracted about 3 units of infantry, which was very useful. Lothar, Fredericus, and the small number of Imperial knights arrived first because they were mounted and blocked the French cavalry in the street until the foot could arrive and form up in the square. Surprisingly, the bodyguards of Lothar and Fredericus did massive damage the Gendarmes and Lancers, despite being outnumbered at least 4:1. When the foot were finally setup, Lothar and Fredericus retreated back behind the lines with their few (3-4) surviving bodyguards. The huge numbers of crossbowmen lined up in a thin L formation on the sides of the square farthest from the street that the French were using, and the infantry was assembled off to the side in a large block. This allowed most of the crossbowmen a direct shot into the densely packed French coming down the street, inflicting massive casualties. The French still inflicted huge casualties on the blocking infantry, but the infantry did their job (thanks to no-breaking in the town square) and held them while the crossbows continued to fire unobstructed into the French flanks. Eventually missile fire exterminated them all and the mounted crossbowmen mopped up the few who fled back through the main gate. End result, heroic victory at the cost of most of the infantry in the army. The army is still capable of defending the city, but it will need significant infantry and cavalry reinforcements before it can face another full stack in the field.

I will definitely write up a battle report for this one.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1356-5.zip

I feel bad for vpmd, the Genoa battle looks unwinnable to me.

AussieGiant

01-27-2008, 19:44

Taking the save.

It's done.

Ramses you're up and you can also take a night battle when you want.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1356-7.zip

After you're done go right up until the Magdeburg screen and then load it up for Elite Ferret.

Ramses II CP

01-27-2008, 19:50

I'm on it. Wish me luck. As tempting as your 'rush them' strategy is, I think I'll try to preserve as much of my army as possible. :laugh4:

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

01-27-2008, 20:25

The Danes have been defeated.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1356-8.zip

Under a cool, concealing mist they didn't even know we were there until the first cannon shot landed among them and then my cavalry burst upon them. It was glorious! They fought like devils and killed many of my men, but my army is mostly intact. (Battle story a bit later maybe).

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

Ferret

01-28-2008, 18:42

AussieGiant

01-28-2008, 21:04

taking the save

edit done and won: (save won't upload?)

https://img118.imageshack.us/img118/4578/kotr1nq3.th.jpg (https://img118.imageshack.us/my.php?image=kotr1nq3.jpg)

despite me pressing escape straight after the battle the menu only came up at the same time as the pop-ups, much to my frustration. I took screens of all of them and will PM them to you AG, sorry for my incompetence.

EF there is no need to apologies. I know you knew what to do...it just didn't work. The problem is mate, if you can't get that save upload then we are in a spot of bother...you might have to refight...then at least you can give it another shot at saving.

_Tristan_

01-28-2008, 21:09

There is a problem with the Org uploader but you can successfully upload on the Mizus one here :

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbmupload.php

PMed TosaInu about the problem...

AussieGiant

01-29-2008, 21:51

CHANCELLOR'S REPORT 1358

The Office of the Exchequer

World Events:

I took the offer to build a Merchant Guild in Bologna. In a turn of fortunes our economy is clearly recovering.

https://img295.imageshack.us/my.php?image=kotr7al4.jpg

The plague is continuing to recede. The Imperial Surgeon's Office is doing a remarkable job making sure it does not spread or resurface. The Exchequers Office has confirmed 6900 soul's died last season, this represents approximately a 60% drop in mortality. Likewise only 1300 soldiers have perished, this is over a 70% percent fall from the last period of assessment.

There were no reported deaths amongst the nobility this year and neither were there any other significant servants throughout the empire.

Most notably I have fully recovered as well as Duke Lothar, Viceroy Matthias, von Salzgitter. Please look at the final reports for the full situation. There are critical issues all over the Reich with regards to the plague. An example is that Duke Lothar is current cured while Count Erlach and the rest of the army are in fact infected. I will be requesting he leaves his post for the time being. This will be addressed in detail at the end of the report.

https://img295.imageshack.us/my.php?image=kotr2bm2.jpg

In some astounding news Duke Bresch has sired a new baby boy named Sifridus. Honestly Duke Bresch, I think you need to get out of that Citadel because that is just a shocking name to inflict upon your only son!!!

https://img240.imageshack.us/my.php?image=kotr4ap9.jpg

On the other hand the Egyptian are holding us in a dim view still...I still have no idea why and I'm starting to get upset that the Exchequers office seems to have no clue about it.

https://img240.imageshack.us/my.php?image=kotr6ps1.jpg

Meanwhile the English think where the proverbial "dogs bollocks". I personally think its because I take the English ambassador out to reputable establishments an indulge him to the point of it being criminal in some parts of the world.

https://img295.imageshack.us/my.php?image=kotr5gz9.jpg

Our economy is rebounding nicely. We are running into a solid position with the black death now on the wain.

https://img118.imageshack.us/my.php?image=kotr3hu7.jpg

The important thing to take note, is that we now have a series of quarantine issues to deal with. You will notice that settlements my now be clean from disease but one of our nobles still has the black death. I need all of you to assess you specific areas and make sure that those "mixed" armies or settlements are identified and that we separate the infected from the uninfected.

Here is the situation untouched at the beginning of 1358 my Lords. Begin your planning and make your suggestions known to me. I will come back to you all with my recommendations in due course.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1358-1.zip

CHANCELLOR'S REPORT 1358 to be continued:

Ramses II CP

01-30-2008, 02:17

Chancellor Arnold I believe I shall reset my ambush precisely as it was before. Leave Captain Euse(whatever) exactly where he is, but back my army up into the forest directly north of him.

One change, however; it will be critically important this time to combine my spearmen into whole companies. Small companies of militia spearmen are worse than useless, they'll break instantly when charged. I should have three whole companies and one fragment at seven men when you're done. I would also appreciate it if you topped off the more experienced crossbowmen from the less experienced companies, but that's less important.

I can imagine only one reason for the Dane's Prince Stenkil failing to attack me last season. It is because he is terrified that I will execute him and hang his corpse from the walls of Arhus like I did his mad cousin. He is right to be afraid, and I must bank on that fear holding him where he is. (I think the AI is having a pathing issue with trying to move two armies onto the island in the same turn. I don't think it's gamey because they can actually get to me to fight, just not both at once. Call it intelligent use of limited terrain. :beam: )

If he does cross I may be forced to withdraw, but for now I will reset my ambush exactly as it was and wait to see.

:egypt:

AussieGiant

01-30-2008, 09:26

The Chancellor

Your request is understoond Sir Fritz. I will adjust your regiments and reset the positioning of your forces as you have outlined.

_Tristan_

01-30-2008, 13:13

Hugo de Cervole

Chancellier, I would request to give me command of the 1st SHA so that I could lead it to Dijon and help in the relief of Comte Ruppel.

AussieGiant

01-30-2008, 13:21

The Chancellor

Sir Hugo, please have Duke von Salza confirm this and I will have you assume command immediately.

The 1st SHA is still diseased I believe...keep that in mind. Plus the approach of French towards Staufen may make the relief of Dijon a more pressing need.

I need a Duchy level overview my Lord.

_Tristan_

01-30-2008, 15:59

OOC : I tried taking command without any plague showing on my avatar... So ?

IC : Of course, I will bow to my Duke's will concerning the command of the SHA

FactionHeir

01-30-2008, 16:04

As I am co-commander of the SHA, I grant permission to Cervole to leading it for the purpose of relieving Dijon.

econ21

01-30-2008, 18:18

OOC : I tried taking command without any plague showing on my avatar... So ?

OOC: Press end turn and see if that is still true. I think infections from joining a poxed stack only show up after you end the turn.

FactionHeir

01-30-2008, 19:13

They show up immediately

econ21

01-30-2008, 20:40

Taking the save.

econ21

01-30-2008, 22:14

Welf von Luxemburg:

My Lord Chancellor,

The French are not advancing on Staufen - Staufen is advancing on the French:

https://img251.imageshack.us/img251/1691/staufen0kw2.png (https://imageshack.us)

https://img86.imageshack.us/img86/115/staufen1ej6.jpg (https://imageshack.us)

Your humble servant

Welf von Luxemburg

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1358-2.zip

gibsonsg91921

01-30-2008, 23:04

OOC: Holy crap. I don't know how you people win battles like that so easily.

Northnovas

01-30-2008, 23:26

OOC: Holy crap. I don't know how you people win battles like that so easily.

I concur! Mine would have been drag down mud sling not a Heroic Victory with so few casualties. I am glad they are on our side!:laugh4:

AussieGiant

01-31-2008, 09:03

The Chancellor

Well, I guess that is a clear indication of what is happening in Swabia.

If anyone would care to fill the leadership void I would greatly appreciate some strategy before I enact the orders for this season.

Welf, well done...god know's how you managed that but the report should clarify things. I assume then that you still have your channel open to Duke Leopold.

econ21

01-31-2008, 10:31

Welf:

My Lord Chancellor,

With Count Ruppel entombed in Bern and Count von Bohmen on leave in Antwerp, the only remaining strategic issue for Swabia concerns SHA1. The movement orders for this army are now in the first instance the responsibility of its new commander, General der Cervole.

For what it is worth, my impression was that SHA1 may be able to reach Dijon this year if the ribault battery is left behind. Personally, I found the ribaults next to useless in the relief of Bern so I would not regard their absence as a major problem. However, General der Cervole may view the matter otherwise. And I believe Count Ruppel - whose mastery of tactics is widely acknowledged - has argued for the use of artillery to help relieve Dijon.

In the absence of clarification from these individuals, the most cautious option would be to retain the ribault and advance SHA1 towards Dijon. (OOC: you may have to ditch the peasant archers to keep within the historical armies rule.) The lancers besieging Dijon are content to wait out the siege, so the matter is not yet urgent.

Yours

Welf

AussieGiant

01-31-2008, 10:46

The Chancellor

Sir Welf,

While the issue in Dijon is still not critical, it is stifling the entire Swabian front and to be perfectly honest the situation there and around Magdeburg is a #$%@#ing painin the arse and I would like it resolved in my term of office.

Keep in mind Bruges is besieged yet again and as we have no commander in the city I fret over the outcome should the French commence their assault. Someone needs to get up there to relieve the situation.

I'll await word from Sir Hugo or Count Ruppel on the artillery matter. The 1st SHA Army will head towards Dijon this year...it will simply be a case of determining the distance.

OOC: The army you used to crush the French...was that historical?

_Tristan_

01-31-2008, 10:56

AussieGiant

01-31-2008, 11:48

On second thoughts, seeing how Comte Ruppel is in no danger of immediate assault by the French, and with the SHA confirmed to be still plagued, I would ask permission to oversee the governance of Bern until all diseased soldiers of the SHA are either dead or cured.

OOC : I did what Econ suggested (and contrary to what FH said) on end turn, Hugo found himself plagued... I hope it is not too late...

Your fine Tristan. I knew you were not going to see the plague until the next turn. It doesn't happen in real time.

I guessed it was still plagued...but you're heading to Dijon with the SHA in tow anyway. Unless you can explain why you shouldn't.:inquisitive:

econ21

01-31-2008, 11:48

OOC: The army you used to crush the French...was that historical?

OOC: To be honest, I did not think to check but looking back I think it was. I had eight knights (gen + 3TK + 3DFK + 1DIK), which is the maximum but otherwise it was pretty balanced.

EDIT: Oops - from the screenshots there were 4DFK, so no, it was not historical. The 19 DIK could go without affecting the army's power much, though.

_Tristan_

01-31-2008, 12:11

Chancellier,

I would ask the spear militias from Bern to be put at my disposal and if possible the recruitment of mercenary Pavise Xbows and spearmen from around Dijon so as to replace the losses due to the plague in the SHA.

Ramses II CP

01-31-2008, 15:08

Any time you're fighting a high morale force (3x silver Lancers) I think a ribault can be useful. The trouble is getting it in just the right position so it can fire at just the right moment and hit only the enemy. It doesn't even have to kill anything, just having it fire at them will substantially reduce their morale.

:egypt:

FactionHeir

01-31-2008, 15:36

I was thinking more along the lines of sally, place ribault nicely at the Lancer's flanks, and fire striking through the long line of lancers :grin:

As for the plaguing, thats interesting. Are you sure you didn't just miss the plague icon appearing in Hugo's portrait after merging? Thats what usually is the case.

_Tristan_

01-31-2008, 15:38

Sure... There was no icon the first time I did it... I know where to look...

Is it automatic ? I seem to remember in previous TW games that you seem to have a random chance (high but still...)

AussieGiant

01-31-2008, 17:49

The Chancellor

Please note my lords that I will not be making any recommendations this season.

I ask you all to assess your situations and inform me accordingly, or attack as you see fit with the forces under your command.

AussieGiant

02-01-2008, 20:31

Taking the save to update and provide a little momentum for a few people.

-edit-

Just to be clear. I didn't see the start of the turn so I have no idea which avatar less forces are plagued or unplague. So again I will have to take a very conservative approach to the combining forces. And there are a number of forces out and about without avatars. Frankfurt is about to be sieged as well I think.

Plus two major issues.

Magdeburg the Citadel is unplagued, yet the two avatars inside are plagued. I'm leaving them in there due to the number of Poles outside wanting to come in...again.

Bavarian Otto/Gerhard Corp has Lothar uninfected but Erlach infected. I'm going to move Lothar out of there just to be sure.

if this is not ok please let me know. Of course if anyone fights a battle that will lock in the moves I do now.

AussieGiant

02-02-2008, 11:00

Chancellor Report 1358 continued

My Lords this is my last full report to you as Chancellor. I will have the next report prepared in the initial stages for the man that follows me into office. I am preparing the Reich for a period of expansion like we have never seen before. With the plague now essentially over we can face the challenges ahead without the fear of death by disease and the corruption of our bodies.

The Office of the Exchequer

Again a merchant is being recruited in Antioch. Given the value of these trade routes this investments is clearly needed.

The Cidatel in Magdeburg is being repaired in expectation that yet another siege next season.

As I mentioned previously our standing with the Pope has fallen. I initially approached his holiness with what I thought was a favourable offer. I was sadly mistaken.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1358/medieval22008-02-0121-37-59-43.jpg

As a result of this outrageous attitude toward me there was a small incident in Ragusa with one of the Preferati's retinue. I threaten him with bodily harm at one point, but the matter has now been resolved and we have settled on an agreement that should have us in good standing in the early stages of the next Chancellor's term of office.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1358/medieval22008-02-0121-37-43-87.jpg
https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1358/medieval22008-02-0121-38-10-85.jpg

I continue to enjoy my time with the Russian nobility. This season, while taking some time off to celebrate my survival of the plague, I managed to get yet another noble of Russia completely drunk. Surprisingly he was a the brother of the Russian Exchequer. We entered into yet another excellent round of negotiations which left us with the following deal.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1358/medieval22008-02-0121-33-27-26.jpg

This allow the following things to occur;

The War Office

The offensive season saw just one engagement.

Von Luxemburg has yet again smashed the French force approaching Staufen. God knows how he is managing this but I'll take the results every time.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1818354&postcount=246

Recruiting:
As mentioned previously this is my last report and therefore I have enacted a massive recruiting surge. The following regiments where requested from the War Office for next year. This is one of the largest troop surges we have had in the last 50 years and dates back to before the beginning of the Cataclysm.

Rome: 1 x Militia Halberd; 1 x Militia Crossbowman
Milan: 1 x Militia Spearmen; 1 x Militia Crossbowman
Innsbruck: 1 x DFK; 1 x Pavise Crossbowman; 1 x Armoured Spearmen
Staufen: 1 x Pavise Crossbowman; 1 x Mounted Crossbowman; 1 x reinforced DFK
Acre: 1 x DFK; 1 x Pavise Crossbowman; 1 x Armoured Spearmen
Ragusa: 1 x DFK; 1 x Pavise Crossbowman; 1 x Armoured Spearmen
Adana: Reinforced the following; 1 x Canon; 2 x Pavise Crossbowman
Vienna: 2 x Forlorn Hope; 1 x Canon
Prague: 3 x Militia Spearmen
Frankfurt: 2 x Teutonic Knights
Arhus: 1 x hand gunner
With Fritz: 3 x Sergent Spearmen (Mercs)

Regional Report

Swabia (Home of strife and French loving)

von Luxemburg the magnificent: went on the offensive and attacked and defeated the French force heading for Staufen. In affect he has consecrated what is now clearly the 2nd SHA. He is now the commander of this army as far as I'm concerned.

Count Ruppel the continually stuck in Dijon: remains in Dijon with the 1st SHA now one season away.

von Bohmen, the siege queen: is still in Antwerp while Bruges has now come under siege yet again. I will be strongly recommending a relief action by Ludwig when he is back on active duty.

Duke von Salza of the spring break: continued eastward and has now set up a very nice marquee and drink station on a bridge just south of Nuremburg. If any nobles are heading through the area I recommend a stop and partake of the facilities there. They are truly befitting a Duke of this Realm.

Sir Hugo the slightly impressive: is now outside the walls of Dijon with the 1st SHA. The plagued still infects this force so it is stations in a reinforcing position for the moment.

Kaiser slightly dreadful & Sir Hermann Steffen the brilliant: have made their way through the alps and are entering the Swabian theater of conflict to add some of their momentum and skill the front.

Franconia (land of our greatest and most lethargic generals)

Count Fritz (the surprise expert): has now reset his ambush and is hoping that the Danish £$%%head sticks his todger straight back into the frying pan.

Magdeburg...ahh Magdeburg, a wonderful place of charming inhabitance and Polish visitors. Sir Tancred and the Franconian Duck...Duke. I've bet the Russian noble 10 000 florins they are besieged once again next season. Of course the idiot has accepted the wager.

Austria (The eastern front, dangerous, yet pretty in summer, dull in winter and full of merchants who want something.

Johann Zirn (such a nice pleasant chap...a shame really he seems to have some much potential): has separated from his brother and Hapsburg and is now stationed south of Vienna with a number of canon, some professional regiments and elements of the Vienna garrsion. He will be screening my approach on Zagreb and protecting Vienna from the incoming Hungarian forces.

Lord Becker (he of the Pole planter): is again recruiting further forces in light of another impending Polish siege. Prague is turning out to be one of the great holding actions of the Reich's history. The Poles simply slam themselves to pieces upon the walls being guarded by Lord Becker.

Bavaria (Land of spaghetti, capitals and annoying goat cheese eaters.)

Prinz Dieter's(the quite achiever): has left Rome and taken up position further north. It is hoped he is going to tempted the Byzantine forces out of Florence and bring the other Greek forces south to relieve the pressure near the river Po. He is set up nicely on the side of a mountain and has two smaller forces approaching as reinforcements.

Duke Lothar (he of the newly minted grey hair): has been moved to Venice. He is uninfected and I am not having him risk reinfection by staying with the “Otto/Gerhard Memorial Corp”. Elements of the Innsbruck garrison are heading south to the Duke at this time

Count Erlach (poxed ridden but still in the saddle): is now on the central bridge over the Po with a near fully completely formed “Otto/Gerhard Memorial Corp”. It is hoped this force with make the Greeks rethink the idea of heading over the Po

Outremer (such a well run and happy place)

The Viceroy (Mr Perfect): has moved back into Adana to rearm and reinforce his army. The Greeks continue to prance around like complete fools.

von Salzgitter (Mr Perfect's best friend): is infected and will remained on the Iron Bridge until he is free of the plague.

Chancellor's Notes:

With just one engagement this season we seem to have entirely run out of momentum. As this coincides with the end of my term in Office I'm not sure if it is luck or that I have caused it myself. Never the less our enemies continue to maintain their offensive posture towards us.

OOC: Situation before pressing end turn.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1358-10.zip

Defensive season to follow:

Results

We had just one engagement this defensive season. Sir Fritz bloodied the nose of the aggressive Danish Prinz and withdrew to a better defensive position.

That concludes the report for 1358.

Ramses II CP

02-02-2008, 15:35

I appreciate the spearmen Chancellor Arnold. If the Danes will come I mean to break them. Also at the Diet session I mean to propose a method for breaking the stalemate in Franconia, so rest assured it is a temporary situation.

:egypt:

AussieGiant

02-02-2008, 16:29

The Chancellor

Excellent Lord Fritz. Something must be done in the north, and you seem to be the catalyst for that solution.

The defensive season is upon us!!

There is one action to be taken.

Lord Fritz, the Danes have taken the bait once more they have no idea and a night action is possible.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1358-11.zip

OOC: Save straight afterwards Ramses.

To you all I will move to 1360 on Monday afternoon to give the Diet session a set of weekdays instead of a weekend.

Ramses II CP

02-02-2008, 17:25

OOC: Have to talk to the wife and make sure I have enough time right now. My mother in law's birthday is today. :juggle2: :laugh4:

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-03-2008, 01:36

OOC: So obviously she said no (and slugged me for being 'insensitive'). Putting the lil one to bed now, and I'll be able to fight this in about an hour.

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-03-2008, 02:48

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1358-12.zip

I bled them and withdrew. With the large amounts of cavalry they fielded I was unable to execute my customary ambush tactics against their infantry. With hundreds of unbreakable Honor Guard Norse Swordsmen approaching my spearmen it was clear that the battle had no positive outcome. I am able to report that I inflicted two hundred casualties on them to thirty seven losses among my men.

My first retreat of the Danish campaign. I will still break them, this will simply draw out their torment a little longer.

Fritz von Kastilien

(Maybe I was just feeling timid because of the MIL party, or because my daughter was making funny sounds upstairs. They'll never take Arhus though! :laugh4: )

:egypt:

AussieGiant

02-04-2008, 18:55

1360

The Chancellors Remarks

The year is 1360 my lords. This is the current situation as reported to me upon my departure for Nuremberg where the Kaiser and the Diet Speaker will open the 15th Diet session of the Holy Roman Empire.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360.zip

It has been a privilege to have served as the Chancellor of this Empire.

It has been a trying period over the last 20 years, but I can now safely say that the the Black Death has finally finished. We have reported no civilian or military fatalities in the last season and barring a few nobles and administrators we should be free of this by the start of next season.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-20-59-68.jpg

In the following reports you will see the following general issues.

Zagreb has been assaulted and exterminated by the Hungarian. I will be making my presence full known in Zagreb in the next few years and the Hungarian will rue the day they decided to take such appalling actions on our civilian population. In addition Prague and Magdeburg are now again under siege by the Polish. I've collected the 10 000 florins from my Russian colleague and will be investing it in troops for the coming onslaught against the Hungarian pigs.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-21-07-26.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-21-09-84.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-21-12-12.jpg

Some good news did come out of Prague just before it was placed under siege.

A merchant guild house was completed.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-20-27-14.jpg

The OFFICE of the Exchequer also informed me that the following diplomatic relations have occurred plus we had another of our Bishops promoted to the rank of Cardinal.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-20-36-53.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-20-33-64.jpg

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-20-30-81.jpg

In other news we have taken a massive hit to our diplomatic, priest and merchant classes. In the past season three merchants, two priest and one diplomat passed away. These must be replaced as soon as possible as some of the merchants where involved in massively lucrative endeavors.

Our economy has taken a hit as a result.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-20-45-34.jpg

The House of Bavaria and specifically the Steffen family have now a fully grown set of twins.

https://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x79/aussiegiant/1360/medieval22008-02-0418-20-52-78.jpg

At this time my lords I will ask you all to make your respective travel arrangements so we can convene the upcoming Diet session as soon as possible. The next Chancellor has much to do and is now in an excellent position to being retaking and expanding on what our Reich was before the Cataclysm and the Black Death took from us.

I look forward to meeting you all in person for the first time in many years.

Long Live the Reich!!!

Ramses II CP

02-04-2008, 22:47

My Chancellor I find myself in a difficult position and I must ask for aid. Though my ambush succeeded as well as I had expected against the immensely superior army of Prince Stenkil, my withdrawal from the island was a failure and I no longer have a clear path of march to reinforce Arhus. Additionally reports are that the city is free of the plague, and my men are not. If I am to decamp the island I must do so by calling on an old mercenary friend's ship(s?).

I trust that I have earned sufficient capital with my victories to take up the slack of this loss. It is clearly undesirable to move my plagued army into the clean city, and my forces are insufficient to bring home victory from a field battle against the overwhelming cavalry might of Prince Stenkil's Honor Guard, so I instead intend to sail north and raid Oslo, unless that fortress is overwhelmingly garrisoned. Perhaps the spy in the region, Herman, could be sent north ahead of me to scout the region.

Rest assured I will return in time to prevent the Danes from capturing Arhus. Leave Captain Euse(whatever) where he is, and he'll fight a delaying action to slow Stenkil's advance (He's useless spear militia and couldn't make it to the ships where Fritz would hire them anyway). Any of my men who are unable to fit aboard the ships should probably be left where they are to attempt to withdraw again in the event of Stenkil's attack.

Fritz von Kastilien

OOC: So resetting the ambush was a mistake, as evidently you can't properly withdraw from an ambush site. What are KotR's rules for travel by ship? How much of Fritz's army can I fit on one ship, etc.

edit: rather than waste another post, the doctor thing was a waste of time. A hour waiting for an unecessary 'last minute' appointment where she essentially said 'Yep, you need a steroid. Now go wait another 30 minutes at the pharmacy of your choice. Have a nice day!'

:egypt:

econ21

02-04-2008, 23:13

OOC What are KotR's rules for travel by ship? How much of Fritz's army can I fit on one ship, etc.

It's two units per ship, so if there is only one merc ship, then it would be Fritz plus the unit of your choice. Sorry it sounds grim.

Ramses II CP

02-04-2008, 23:39

OOC: Two ships are available, if the funds can be spared. I could take Fritz, the bombard, the longbowmen (They more or less have to come for IC reasons) and probably the mercenary crossbowmen.

If only one can be purchased I'll probably take Fritz and the longbowmen.

If I'd really understood what was going to happen I probably would've fought that ambush a lot differently, or taken advantage of that second attack better, but I thought 'withdraw' would mean actually withdrawing. :shrug: Fortunes of war. Stenkil is moving slowly because of his ballistae, so right now I'm more worried about that army I ransomed last time moving right past him and sieging Arhus.

Either way, Arhus falls over Fritz's dead body. Hopefully the men who get left behind can actually withdraw next year, when attacked, and hopefully in the direction of Arhus too. Otherwise I'll be ferrying them around on those ships for awhile. :laugh4:

AussieGiant

02-05-2008, 14:17

Sir Fritz,

I regret to say that my official powers are now discharged and you will have to take that up with the next Chancellor.

I will mention your situation for specific attention in my personal report to the next man.

Regards
Duke Arnold

Cecil XIX

02-06-2008, 06:53

Build Queue for Prague.

Taxes set to low.

1. Alchemist's Lab
2. " "
3. " "
4. Huge Stone Walls
5. " "
6. " "
7. " "
8. Merchant's Quarter
9. " "
10. " "

This queue stands regardless of whether or not it is possible to construct Huge Stone Walls in Prague.

AussieGiant

02-08-2008, 09:03

Austrian Army Orders

1st AHA will be commanded by Count Zirn. Its primary task is to protect Vienna and screen Zagreb while it is retaken. Eventually and as the situation permits it should march on Budapest and retake it.

2nd AHA will be command by myself. It's primary aim is to retake Zagreb and remove the Hungarian's from the interior. It should then defend the southern approaches to the Duchy as best as the Chancellor sees fit.

The militia garrison of Prague is commanded by Lord Becker. Defending Prague and assaulting Breslau it's its primary focus.

Duke Arnold

Build orders to follow.

Zim

02-08-2008, 11:01

Build Queue for Acre:

1st: Armoury
2nd: Heavy Armourer

If at any time these two are too expensive but 1600 can be spared, I would like a Jousting List to be built.

OverKnight

02-08-2008, 11:24

Build Queues

Adana
Ballista Towers
Heavy Amrorer
Chancellor's Discretion

Antioch
Church
City Hall
Fairground

Taxes set to avoid rioting

Army Orders:

My army is to stay in the area of Adana, hopefully to be reinforced with infantry and cavalry. If advantageous attacks can be made against Greek forces, I will make them.

Andreas's army is to take the lead on assaulting Cyprus. Please consult with him concerning strategy and what troops he will need.

Edessa will be attacked if troops can be spared after Cyprus. Iconium and Caesarea are targets of oppurtunity once Edessa has been transferred.

FactionHeir

02-08-2008, 11:46

Orders for Swabia as per previous term.

Zim

02-08-2008, 12:17

If the funds are available I would like to have my understrength unit of Pavise Crossbowmen (only one man left! :dizzy2: ), Dismounted Feudal Knights, and Armoured Sergeants retrained. If the field army by Nikosia is to be defeated I would request an additional two units of armoured spearmen, and some basilisks to take out the citadel's walls. Lastly, there are a couple units of turcopole mercs in the area that could be hired. Dealing with the Greek Horsearchers outside Acre before was a huge pain, and I'd like to repay the favor.

OOC: This would put me at about 3/4 of a stack, to the Byzantines army's full stack.

TinCow

02-08-2008, 13:08

The army commanded by Fredericus Erlach will be BHA Gerhard and he will remain in command of it. As far as I am concerned, BHA Otto does not exist at the moment, but I have high hopes that we will soon receive sufficient reinforcements to reconstitute it. I give specific permission to have the Bavarian armies bulked up with militia if professional troops are not available, though I do demand that all recruitment in Innsbruck be directed towards Bavaria for the forseeable future. When BHA Otto is assembled, I will personally command it.

I would like to have one of my two sons, I care not which, to travel to BHA Gerhard to act as Count Erlach's second. Perhaps he can prove himself in battle at the same time. I will personally supervise my other son.

Northnovas

02-08-2008, 14:41

Building Queues

Vienna

1. Royal Arsenal
2. Ballista Towers
3. Farm

Taxes high

AussieGiant

02-08-2008, 19:17

Venice and Ragusa:

I leave both their build queue's up to the Chancellor's needs.

Cecil XIX

02-09-2008, 07:18

I shall delay my sally until the Italian Situation is resolved. If you feel it is late in the campaigning season, Chancellor Fritz, please inform me so I may sally at once.

econ21

02-09-2008, 11:26

I guess we should start the clock running on the 24 hour window for players to instigate offensive battles?

I understand that Ramses wants Dieter to do his battle first - and he will pick up the save this afternoon - but players can still give orders and fight battles that are unrelated to Bavaria.

econ21

02-09-2008, 15:02

Mini Econ is taking the save.

Ramses II CP

02-09-2008, 15:24

Yes, I suppose I should officially declare the offensive season open. I will be in touch as soon as I have assessed the situation in Bavaria Lord Becker.

:egypt:

Mini Econ

02-09-2008, 16:13

Chancellor,

Congratulations on your election!

But my God, those Byzantines can be the devil to fight! They wrecked my army. But for the assistance of my physician and his team, I would have only a third of my men left. We were engaged in close combat from the start - no time to use the missile superiority we enjoyed and our lack of foot knights was sorely felt. Still, thanks to the bravery of our men, we prevailed and thanks to our physicians, my army is still fighting fit.

https://img152.imageshack.us/img152/663/dieter0vk4.jpg (https://imageshack.us)

https://img441.imageshack.us/img441/1498/dieter1ov4.jpg (https://imageshack.us)

Honour dictated that I offer the enemy prisoners at least the chance of ransom. Unusually, our foe's coffers appear full so it was accepted. I fear that may complicate the advance on Bologna and Florence.

Yours

Prinz Dieter

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360-2.zip

Ramses II CP

02-09-2008, 16:19

Congratulations Prinz Dieter! An excellent start to the season. Lord Becker if you wish to sally now you have my blessings, simply make your wishes known.

:egypt:

gibsonsg91921

02-09-2008, 16:50

Peter von Kastilien will leave Herrmann Steffen in Swabia and requests a new army be trained for him to return to Bavaria - it is in dire need.

Ramses II CP

02-09-2008, 17:10

Taking the save to situate Bologna!

My Kaiser, if you would consent to lead the siege of Metz before you depart Swabia that should free me up to train an army for you during your journey.

A German agent in the Bologna region is reporting that he has a contact among the Byzantines guards for that city, and may be able to open the gates for an immediate assault. I need to know if any of the commanders in that zone of control would be able to take on such a task.

Further by splitting Prinz Dieter's army it will be possible to drive back the men he just ransomed, away from the walls, and join the greater part of his men to the siege (I auto-calc'd against the ransom crew to test if Dieter could reach the city and had very few losses), thus it will be possible for any of three commanders (Two more if anyone is jumping on the Steffen twins) to bring the battle to the enemy immediately at Bologna.

It is not necessary to bring home victory immediately, but this chance to blood the enemy within Bologna should not be passed up.

OOC: I think TC is on active duty, and would be appropriate to lead the attack. Whichever commander wants it can hire all the local mercenaries before their attack. I'm taking the save to set up these circumstances, barring a desire on Prinz Dieter's part to actually fight that battle rather than auto it.

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-09-2008, 17:29

All right gentlemen, here is the current situation:

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360-3.zip

Bologna is under siege by Count Ehrlach, Duke Steffen and his two sons, and the majority of Prinz Dieter's army. Any of these men is eligible to attack immediately, using our spy to open the gates and rush inward. I would recommend a conservative strategy on the whole, try to capture some part of the walls and invite the enemy to try to recapture them, but even if the city cannot be taken I do believe the Byzantines can be badly harmed to light losses on our side.

Whomever wishes to attack should hire the regional mercenaries first, into whichever army they wish. Cost is no object, and every available company of men has been drafted to aid the siege.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

gibsonsg91921

02-09-2008, 18:21

Of course brother.

TinCow

02-09-2008, 18:40

I will examine the Chancellor's reports on the situation in Bologna. If I believe I can achieve victory with the forces available, I will certainly lead the attack.

[Edit:]I have examined the situation and it is difficult indeed. My own army is very small, and this will force me to rely a great deal on Count Erlach's force. In addition, there are a very large number of Electors involved in this battle. It would be exceedingly risky to fight it without coordinating the armies beforehand. I will not risk the lives of my Electors nor the Prinz simply to gain a brief advantage on the enemy. I will only attack if all commanders heed my exact orders to the letter (i.e. no AI control). However, this will prevent us from attacking from all sides at once. Therefore, I will need a stronger force. Under the current circumstances I will attack if, and only if, the Chancellor releases enough funds to me to allow me to hire ALL mercenary forces in the area. Otherwise, I shall wait a year and reshuffle the available regiments to reach maximum efficiency.

Ramses II CP

02-09-2008, 19:23

Duke Steffen you have my permission to use every resource you require. Hire every mercenary who will heed your call and make use of them. If you believe it would aid you the small remaining garrisons at Milan or Venice are also at your disposal, I am far less concerned with a little disorder in those places than in driving back the Byzantines.

Fritz von Kastilien

OOC: Rest assured it's never my intent that troops be placed under AI control. If people want to play that way I understand it as accepting a handicap, but as far as I'm concerned it's suicide to let the AI manage troops.

I realize I'm pushing everyone pretty hard, but, well Chancellor Fritz the Attacker can do no less. If we lose some battles then at least we've reduced the AI armies, which won't be topped up for 5 turns, while we can train our own men in the mean time and strike again.

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-10-2008, 03:13

I would still very much like to hear from Huge de Cervole, Hermann Steffen, and Count Ruppel regarding Dijon. Either of the first two is authorized to drive off the small army preventing their march to the relief of Dijon, and the latter will then be in the best position to lift the siege which is likley to occur in the next few seasons. Remember that the camp near Sir de Cervole is infected and should not be entered, but this does not prevent commands being issued to those men in battle if the French don't immediately retreat anyway.

It would also be desirable to have good news from Count von Bohmen and Duke Dieter or Tancred von Tyrolia.

Fritz von Kastilien

OOC: I know, weekend and all (Wife and I did a nice seafood joint for dinner) but there are some fairly critical problem areas. Bologna is discretionary; if it were my choice I'd fight that battle rather than wait to see if they sally, but the Duke and Prinz may disagree. I suspect that, given the fact that the French armies have just been topped off, if we don't relieve Dijon now we will not get a better chance.

Some of these battles, if they aren't fought, are going to see me PM'ing commanders on the ground for permission to auto-calc them. :yes:

:egypt:

Cecil XIX

02-10-2008, 04:38

All right, I'm taking the save.

Cecil XIX

02-10-2008, 06:12

Battles fought and won. (http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360-4.zip)

There are two less Polish armies in Bohemia now. However the sally seems to have reintroduced the plague to Prague without infecting my army. Most of my army is camped outside, but a few units have been sent inside the city to garrison it. My army now numbers slightly less than eight hundred men, and I need reinforcement if I am to take the field and continue clearing the way to Breslau.

Ramses II CP

02-10-2008, 06:45

You will have your reinforcements Lord Becker. Congratulations on your victories!

I suspect the Poles were plagued and somehow introduced their illness to the city. I cannot predict what the exact consequences will be for your men, so I will avoid tampering with the formations you have placed them in and pray for the best.

I believe there are mercenaries available in the territories just to your north. I will decide at the end of the offensive season whether to hire them this year or the next.

Fritz von Kastilien

OOC: You have the plague icon back on your avatar Cecil. :(

Is the plague really reintroduced just by fighting a battle against a plagued army? It doesn't seem like the Danes who just fought my plagued army are infected. Might be specific to sieges I guess.

:egypt:

Cecil XIX

02-10-2008, 07:47

Excellent. My hope is that I can take the field next season to attack the Pole's other field army, and then once I have received extra reinforcements to begin the siege of Breslau in the season afterwards. Our spy's report the army occupying Breslau to be of the typical elite quality, so I would be reluctant to rush in and attack. I would prefer to wait and receive additional canon from Prague while whittling down their forces in the siege.

_Tristan_

02-10-2008, 09:40

OOC : I might be able to fight around Dijon on Monday morning GMT + 1 if noone else wants the privilege...

econ21

02-10-2008, 11:44

Welf von Luxemburg

Chancellor,

I await your orders and am ready to march into battle at your signal,

Welf

OOC: Ramses, feel free to move my stack where you like to set up the battle. You had some ideas about where to move my stack so I don't want to pre-empt them. However, there's no need to autoresolve as I can fight.

TinCow

02-10-2008, 16:01

Taking the save to fight Bologna.

[Edit:] Done. That was one of the most intense battles I have ever fought. The reinforcements trickled in slowly and in irregular intervals, leaving me at a massive disadvantage in men for most of the battle. Despite the open doors, the AI defended all four gates very well. I used Lothar's army of militia and mercs to force their way into the main gate. The mass of low quality spears bought enough time for the crossbowmen to get onto the walls. It was then a brutal slug match with the spears in the streets and the crossbowmen on the walls. Eventually the entire force was killed or routed, but they took down about twice their number before they finally gave way. This bought me enough time (and drew enough Byzantines to the gate) to allow Prinz Dieter's force to come up and enter via a second gate. With the rest of Lothar's army gone, he and his two sons rode over there and joined Dieter. With Dieter's crossbows on the walls and lots of heavy cavalry in the streets, I was able to keep a foothold there and slowly whittle away at the enemy as they came at me. The entire time this was happening, Erlach's force was blocked by a huge force of Byzantine cavalry that was waiting at his gate, preventing him from entering. Eventually, Lothar and the other generals cleared their area of the city and rode into the town square. This forced the Byzantine cavalry back from the gates, which allowed Erlach to enter in full force. Eventually he was able to line the streets with crossbows and cut down most of the cavalry in the town square, though they also charged his lines and inflicted heavy losses on the few regiments of infantry he had with him.

Bologna has been recaptured and all 5 avatars are alive, but it cost us a huge number of men. I don't think I have ever micromanaged a battle more than I did just then.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360-4.zip

https://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b203/TinCow/KOTR/bologna-results.jpg

Ramses II CP

02-10-2008, 17:14

In your case Welf I was actually hoping to have your men hold the bridge and let the French dash themselves apart against it. The Kaiser has nobly committed himself to aiding us by leading the siege at Metz, so I will probably take most the cavalry from your command to aid him in this. The cavalry should be less essential for a bridge battle, though it may prevent you pursuing the enemy after your victory, and next year you can reinforce the Kasier's small force and either of you can capture Metz. It would still be possible for you to strike those men across the bridge, and then send your cavalry back to Metz, but it may be easier to hold the bridge. I will leave this matter to your discretion Sir Welf, but if you fight do so with the goal of preserving enough men to hold the bridge and a siege at Metz.

So, let me update matters with the remaining desirable actions in order of priority, given that the siege of Bologna is being undertaken right now (I hope you snagged those two companies just north of you TC. Captain Dimarus, crossbowmen and foot knights. Just noticing I forgot to move them into your army!):

1. Dijon. The small French force facing Captain Gunther does not technically need to be fought in order to relieve Dijon, as I am certain they would withdraw in the face of Gunther's superior troops, however the ideal situation would be to drive them off completely so that they are not present to threaten to reinforce the army of Lancers. Sir de Cervole has volunteered a time when he can manage this, and I greatly hope that Count Ruppel can sally soon afterward, before our season closes. If Hermann Steffen can get to it sooner it is a battle of little consequence, and he would be welcome to do so, simply do not take the Kaiser with you.

2. Madgeburg. Given the uncertainty of the situation here, things are what they are. I may request permission of Duke Dieter to (autocalc) handle a sally myself as in the worst case of a failure to drive them off the enemy will at least be damaged and unlikely to proceed with their attack.

3. Vienna. A glance at the situation makes it almost inevitable that the Hungarians are prepared to attack Johann Zirn in the coming season. There's an insignificant force directly in front of him that I'd like to see driven off, but such is not very important and if it isn't done I'll pick some good looking defensive terrain for him and place him on it. As Lord Becker has requested another cannon to the north, and Count Zirn already has one, I may send the one available at Vienna north rather than train another in Prague without knowing if Prague is plagued or not.

The rest are just minor movements and touch-ups which I will do at the end of the turn.

God grant you victory Duke Steffen!

Fritz von Kastilien

OOC: Heading out for a bit now. Looking forward to good news when I get back. :yes:

:egypt:

AussieGiant

02-10-2008, 18:51

TC

I just loaded up 1360-4. It seems to be before you took Bologna not after.

Cheers
AG

TinCow

02-10-2008, 18:57

GeneralHankerchief

02-10-2008, 18:59

I can get to the save later today.

AussieGiant

02-10-2008, 19:07

You made my heart skip for moment. I checked and the 1360-4 save I have in my save folder is indeed after I took Bologna. I have not checked the one I uploaded, but just in case I re-uploaded the save.

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360-4a.zip

Good to go now TC!!

I was having a small heart attack also. After your brief description I was like:

"Oh dear...this could be bad!" :beam:

Ramses II CP

02-10-2008, 19:43

Brilliantly done Duke Lothar! (I note that you did it even without the crossbowmen and foot knights to your north. Sorry I forgot them!) The engagements this year have been quite satisfactory thus far. The Byzantines and Poles must both be shocked by our boldness. There is still a large force of Byzantines, and of course the French, but I feel comfortable saying that the situation in Bavaria is quite good.

I'm taking the save to make some adjustments in Austria and Bavaria. I won't disturb the situation in Swabia for the moment, but I'm going to shuffle some men around at Bologna and move Count Erlach back to the bridge.

Prinz Dieter your command will be somewhat reduced, but it has accomplished great things this season, and there are many battles still to come I assure you.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-10-2008, 19:56

The save is frozen gentlemen, no one take it until this problem can be resolved!

OOC: Not so good. I can see why TC used the wrong name, because he was working from the save before Lord Becker's sally at Prague. We're in a position of having split continuities now.

If Bologna is taken, Prague is under siege still. I have checked, and a sally at Prague can be auto-calc'd for a victory, but Lord Becker also defeated a smaller nearby Polish army that would remain, plus his casualties wouldn't match up, etc, etc. I'm PM'ing both commanders now, but I also need to hear from Econ on the matter.

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-10-2008, 22:01

OOC Screenshots of the proposed adjustment for Cecil:

The armies after Cecil's actual fight:

http://lh6.google.com/RosDalton/R69j8Jbqe9I/AAAAAAAAJCk/ineulwyU_Qk/s800/0002.jpg

http://lh3.google.com/RosDalton/R69j-Zbqe-I/AAAAAAAAJCs/OKeo2bdssd0/s800/0003.jpg

The auto-calc battles:

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R69kA5bqe_I/AAAAAAAAJC0/quGa3xLpKqY/s800/0004.jpg

http://lh4.google.com/RosDalton/R69kCpbqfAI/AAAAAAAAJC8/L7dxi4JdD0Q/s800/0007.jpg

The armies after the adjusted, auto-calc fights:

http://lh6.google.com/RosDalton/R69kHJbqfCI/AAAAAAAAJDM/iQ9YL7nh6-8/s800/0009.jpg

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R69kE5bqfBI/AAAAAAAAJDE/m3NOsRvJ_jM/s800/0008.jpg

The primary difference, the only one of consequence IMHO, is more militia spearmen (2 companies) and fewer foot knights (~ half as many) will remain for Cecil after the adjustment.

This post is mostly just so I can refer to the shots easily via pm.

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-11-2008, 00:03

Conditional upon Cecil posting that these changes are acceptable to him, I'm uploading the new save with solely the adjustments to the Prague sitaution present. I'm then heading out for a few hours. Please don't take the save until Cecil says he's okay with the changes.

If Cecil is okay with them this save will then be unfrozen for Hermann, Welf, or any other desired offensive action:

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360-5.zip

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-11-2008, 02:46

OOC: I apologize to anyone who wanted to take action tonight, but I think we have to wait for Cecil to take a look at the changes and make sure they're okay. I realize my first turn is probably going to be one of the slowest in history, but activity being what it is, and the dictates of strategy being what they are I cannot see any other solution.

If we don't have word in the next 12 hours or so I'll make the logical decision and we'll move forward, with apologies to Cecil.

:egypt:

TinCow

02-11-2008, 02:54

There's nothing for you to apologize for. It was my error. Any delay is my fault.

Ramses II CP

02-11-2008, 06:42

OOC: Well, it's been some time, the message reciepts show that Cecil read the PMs and he didn't come charging forward with objections, so I'm tentatively declaring the matter decided and the save unfrozen. I'll be heading to bed and some action may come up before I'm up. This is the current save unless I hear some strong objections from Cecil:

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360-5.zip

In the interests of moving ahead let me recap again:

1. Dijon. I believe Tristan will be up and about in a few hours, and may be able to take this on. Just smash that little army in front of you, try not to exhaust your men's movement points, and Ruppel will be up. At any time after Tristan acts FH is eligible to position the diseased men of Captain Gunther and Captain Matthias (The two Teutonic Knights near Bern) to his satisfaction and to then attempt to lift the siege of Dijon. Hermann Steffen can also take this on at any time, but I believe we missed his window of availability.

2. Madgeburg. This is likely to be an auto-calc'd sally. There is no way to predict the results, but IMHO the AI is less likely to proceed with the siege and kill Dieter and Tancred if a sally is used to at least weaken their army. If DG or EF wants to play the sally, they're welcome to jump on it now. Tomorrow I'm going to roll the dice here.

3. Metz. I believe Welf is content to hold the bridge and risk a defensive battle, otherwise speak soon.

That should be everything and tomorrow things will move forward to the defensive season!

:egypt:

_Tristan_

02-11-2008, 12:16

Took the save and defeated the small french force (lost 19 men in the fight for only one French survivor)

Captain Gunther is now a bit nearer Dijon and Hugo is just north of the town...

Would it be possible to recruit the mercenary available in the area (One Knight, One Pavise Xbow and one militia ?

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360-6.rar

FactionHeir

02-11-2008, 14:44

I recommend recruiting them at the start of the next turn so we don't pay the upkeep.

Ramses II CP

02-11-2008, 15:12

Thank you Sir Hugo, and congratulations!

Count Ruppel, are you able to sally soon?

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

_Tristan_

02-11-2008, 15:44

Be sure to use Hugo in case of a sally, FH...

I don't mind... And you might need him...

FactionHeir

02-11-2008, 16:20

What do you mean "be sure to use Hugo?"? You want me to send him headfirst into the lancer army alone? :grin:

Ramses II CP

02-11-2008, 16:43

Very well then, I believe Count Ruppel has expressed a desire to wait until next season and hope for the best due to the ribault being unable to aid in his sally.

I will now be taking the save to make the final adjustments and move us forward to the defensive season. Having no word from Ludwig von Bohmen I can only assume Bruges must be abandoned, and I will act thusly. May the French be merciful to the people there.

In the interests of full disclosure I will make it known that I am commanding a sally at Frankfurt to drive away the small Polish army there, and a sally at Madgeburg. That should be all of the (autocalc) offensive actions.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

_Tristan_

02-11-2008, 16:50

What do you mean "be sure to use Hugo?"? You want me to send him headfirst into the lancer army alone? :grin:

I meant be sure to use him to skewer Ruppel on his lance...:whip:

AussieGiant

02-11-2008, 17:15

Ramses II CP

02-11-2008, 17:53

We have only a single defensive engagement. Jan Zirn, escorting the Forlorn Hope south to meet with his brother Johann Zirn has been attacked by the Hungarian noble in the region. Johann's men will be called as reinforcements (Not ideal I know, sorry. It didn't occur to me that the enemy might march past you to get at your reinforcements, but you should be okay.).

A further tiny force of Hungarians is joining the battle to the right rear of Jan, but he will have the drop on them as they enter the field and should have no difficulty with them. The save:

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1360-7.zip

Fritz von Kastilien

OOC: Screenies of the resolutions at Frankfurt and Madgeburg. I auto'd them in that order immediately on loading the -6 save. I was quite worried about Madgeburg, I expected it to be a bloody draw, but Dieter was either unreasonably lucky or a good AI commander.

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R7B7spbqfII/AAAAAAAAJFM/R65rszdfkKU/s800/0010.jpg

http://lh4.google.com/RosDalton/R7B7uZbqfJI/AAAAAAAAJFU/v3T2rYEuhpA/s800/0011.jpg

:egypt:

Northnovas

02-12-2008, 04:35

Johann Zirn and little Jan:

I am going for it and picking up the save. Will post soon.

Northnovas

02-12-2008, 05:32

Sorry for the double post.
Into the new turn having an issue with the uploader.

Save: Chancellor has save to be with new report.

Here are the results of the battle:

https://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa55/northnovas/Johann/1360battledeploy.jpg
https://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa55/northnovas/Johann/1360defeat.jpg
https://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa55/northnovas/Johann/1360stats.jpg

Only one victory in the battle with the artillery and then I was overrun.

https://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa55/northnovas/Johann/1360enemygeneral.jpg

Ramses II CP

02-12-2008, 07:28

Chancellor's Report, 1362.

As a summary, it was a season of mixed news. Bologna was retaken, but Bruges fell. The French ignored the relief force at Dijon, but the Hungarians suffered an unexpected stroke of intelligence and drove us back at Vienna. Lord Becker assailed the Polish, lifting the siege of Prague, but the city is now once again infected with the plague, though Lord Becker's camp appears clean. Madgeburg sallied... and has immediately been taken under siege again. Two of our revered Cardinals passed away peacefully. On to the detailed reports:

The Office of the Exchequer

The financial situation is recovering quite nicely.

http://lh4.google.com/RosDalton/R7Et1JbqfYI/AAAAAAAAJI8/p_qrSfAVxkk/s800/screenshot7.JPG

Another merchant was trained and put into the field in the Antioch region, he immediately opened a profitable business. I was able to make my own contribution to our finances by conducting a rapid night raid on Oslo, sacking the place for nine thousand florins and then selling that citadel, plague and all, to the Russians for another four thousand florins.

This brings our total available operating capital for the season to thirty four thousand florins.

The Physician's Office

I have instituted measures to maintain exact tracking on cities and armies which have yet to shake the plague. With that in mind I am opening this office by reporting that plague has returned to Prague. It appears the illness was spread by the Poles during Lord Becker's sally against them. May God have mercy on the citizens of Prague.

Further, my own army, and the armies of both Captains under my command remain infected. Captains Eusebius and Ruprecht will be kept isolated until the disease can be brought under control. Also affected is the ship on which I sailed north, but I see little further use for them and likely will dismiss them from service.

In Swabia Captains Gunther and Matthias continue to be affected, and both will likely be needed for the relief of Dijon, risking the spread to that much abused city.

In Bavaria Fredericus Erlach and his men also still appear to be affected. Additionally the French garrison of Genoa is clearly reeling under the effects of the disease, which is keeping them pinned in the city.

One last note of interest. Our spy in Krakow, Rainald von Bremen, sends word that he has somehow captured and bred rats which could be used to spread the plague within the Polish capital. I must confess even I am repelled by the thought, but there would be a certain justice in it, given their ill strike at Prague. Thoughts?

http://lh6.google.com/RosDalton/R7Et0pbqfXI/AAAAAAAAJI0/MT486vuo3XY/s800/screenshot6.JPG

The War Office

The prior offensive season saw, in Bavaria the recapture of Bologna via a massive effort coordinated brilliantly by Duke Lothar himself, with the aid of Count Erlach and Prinz Dieter. Now the Byzantine Captain at Florence has seen fit to split his army, perhaps under pressure to produce some results, leaving Florence potentially exposed to a repeat of our treatment of Bologna. As before, every available resource will be put at the Duke's disposal should he wish to make a try for Florence. Prinz Dieter as soon as the operation in the Florence region is completed I will be asking you to march north to Franconia, which needs you desperately.

In Swabia Metz was taken under siege, and the French made no move to relieve it this year. Kaiser Peter or Welf von Luxemburg are authorized to capture that city at their discretion, using any nearby force they feel necessary.

It will be essential, I believe, to finally lift the siege of Dijon this season. Count Ruppel you have considerable resources at your disposal, though Captains Gunther and Matthias are still plagued. Hermann Steffen is also in the region, and could take on mercenaries and ride to your aid as well.

In a daring and brilliant move Huge de Cervole asked permission to coordinate an action with one of our spies in Swabia. As a result of his passionate desire to punish the French, we now have a man inside the lightly garrisoned city of Paris who can open the gates for Sir de Cervole at any time. Reportedly the city is held only by a single partial company of peasant crossbowmen, so I do not expect you will need any reinforcement or aid.

In Franconia the Poles were driven away from Frankfurt and Madgeburg, though they have returned to Madgeburg. Further north I conducted a night raid against Danish Oslo despite an incredible season of storms and wind, then sold that plague stricken citadel to the Russians, thus weakening our enemies and perhaps driving a wedge between them, as well as enriching ourselves.

http://lh4.google.com/RosDalton/R7Et0JbqfWI/AAAAAAAAJIs/nWnCo86w0lo/s800/screenshot5.JPG

In Austria Lord Becker struck a mighty blow against the Poles at Prague. I have sent two companies of Teutonic Knights and a cannon from Vienna north to aid his further offensives, and he has my permission to hire any mercenaries he may come across. I believe there are some in the Prague region and even more in the Breslau region. Spend as you need Lord Becker.

South of Vienna my poor advice on the positioning of his army saw Count Johann Zirn and his brother outmanuevered by a Hungarian army, though they slew the commander before departing the field. This army will be reconstituted as soon as possible and made ready for offensive action.

Further south Duke Arnold is marching north to retake Zagreb, and the Venetians are dithering over Durazzo with the Byzantines shadowing them.

In Outremer the Turks have made their presence felt by sieging Adana. Fortunately our enemies squabble amongst themselves, and another Turkish army was intercepted by a Byzantine one northeast of Adana. God grant that they destroy each other utterly while Viceroy Matthias crushes the fools that dared siege Adana. The Byzantines also marched an army down to face off with Count von Salzgitter, but refrained from attacking. I wonder if their nerve fails them when they approach the blood soaked ground of the Iron Bridge.

In other news, a small Byzantine fleet was defeated near Palermo.

Recruiting Report:

Recruiting continued apace at most facilities, though the hiring of mercenaries expended a considerable chunk of florins. My focus was on Mounted Crossbowmen, whose flexibility and durability are a boon to any army. All specific recruitment requests were met, though for Count von Salzgitter I trained Mounted Crossbowmen rather than hire Turkopoles. You'll find they are already positioned to reinforce the Iron Bridge Count von Salzgitter.

The save is here (Org uploader seems to be having trouble):

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1362-1.zip

And the season is now open! Any questions can be directed to the Chancellor personally or in open discussion. I would have it known that I expect there to be engagements on every front this season. The first year of my Chancellorship was a banner year for military excellence, and I desire that things move only ever upward from here. Fortune favor you in the fields my Lords!

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

_Tristan_

02-12-2008, 09:52

Took the save for the capture of Paris...

A victory for the Reich... Paris is ours... None of our men were wounded nor killed...

All of the defenders died at our swords...

We looted 11908 florins from the town.

I have moved out with our spy and employed some of our loot money to hire a company of merc spearmen to garrison the town.

I will march on Reims next turn and try to pull the same trick if Reims is not reinforeced in the meantime..

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1362-2.rar

OverKnight

02-12-2008, 14:30

I am taking the save to sally at Adana.

OverKnight

02-12-2008, 14:33

Forgive the double post, but how does one upload a save to the alternate site? I can find the file listings at mizus, but where's the uploader?

TinCow

02-12-2008, 14:35

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbmupload.php

FactionHeir

02-12-2008, 15:11

I'll be taking the save once OK returns it.

Ramses II CP

02-12-2008, 15:32

Regional Recommendations for the offensive season:

Outremer:

Viceroy Steffen is in the process of sallying against the Turks, as I would have recommended. I imagine there will be little left by the time he is done.

At the Iron Bridge Count von Salzgitter is faced with a substantial Byzantine army. My opinion is that he should hold the bridge against them rather than attack. Mounted crossbowmen for his and the Viceroy's armies are in place to reinforce him there as required.

Austria:

The siege of Durazzo will distract the Venetians for at least another season, allowing Duke Arnold to continue his march north, trailed by his catapults.

At Vienna Johann Zirn must be on a defensive footing for the time being. No engagement appears sought there by the Hungarians at this time, so Vienna is a stalemate until I can get more soldiers to the area.

At Prague Lord Becker has a large quantity of mercenaries available to him, and he is authorized to hire on all of them if he so desires. Unfortunately the Teutons I added to his army cannot move far enough to strike against the Polish noble nearby, but Lord Becker could trail them right behind him and, hiring the mercenaries from both regions, strike out to clear away the Poles between himself and Prague.

Bavaria:

Count Erlach is still in command of an army striken with the plague, and my recommendation is to leave him at the bridge unless the Duke feels it is preferrable to attack the field army of Byzantines rather than the city of Florence.

Duke Steffen and Prinz Dieter are in position, including bringing south the men Bernhard Steffen went north to pick up, to halve the Byzantine forces in Bavaria. I would recommend a strike at Florence, including sending in our agent Helmut von Balk and bringing to bear the Prinz's cannon.

If this is the intended action, it should be carried out by first laying siege to Florence from Bologna to tie down the garrison there, and then having Prinz Dieter clean up the small remnant of an army outside the walls before moving to join the siege. After that battle the Prinz' cannon should be in range of the walls, and available to either commander for an assault.

A complex action, I know. I would like to hear from Duke Lothar his opinions on the overall strategic goals in Bavaria for this season.

Swabia:

Paris has fallen to a daring sneak attack, as Sir Hugo de Cervole brings a measure of justice to the French.

Dijon will never be better positioned to sally, Count Ruppel. May God grant you victory. I had hoped the mounted crossbowmen from Staufen would have the range to reach you, but they cannot make it to the walls. Hermann Steffen is available to aid your sally as well, including any mercenaries he can find.

At Metz either Kaiser Peter or Welf von Luxemburg is authorized and encouraged to select the infantry they feel may be needed and recapture that city. After Metz is taken a small garrison will be left, and the Kaiser will depart for the front of his choice with what cavalry forces can be spared for him.

At Antwerp I will recommend that Count von Bohmen move out of the city and down to the bridge in the hope that he can thus slow the French advance.

Franconia:

At Arhus I have instructed my captains to retreat towards the city, but not enter it. I will be returning to take command of them shortly.

At Madgeburg. Well. What is there to do but sally? Good luck Duke Dieter and Count von Tyrolia.

General notes:

I would hear some comments on the suggestion of Rainald von Bremen at Krakow, gentlemen. I would also like to say that it was my intent to use Oslo to negotiate military access with the English, but I discovered that we do not have a diplomat in range to contact them. I will be placing one in the coming season.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

OverKnight

02-12-2008, 15:36

The Turks should have stayed away from Outremer, they have been eliminated.

Battle report and stats to follow.

Here's the save, bonne chance FH.

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1362-3.zip

FactionHeir

02-12-2008, 15:51

Merci, I'll need it.

FactionHeir

02-12-2008, 16:57

Dijon is relieved and the rebels nearby have been put to the sword. The French also could not afford the measly ransom I demanded for 60 of their lancers.

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1362-4.zip

I have ordered the construction of cannon towers at Dijon to make future attempts at relief significantly smoother and am training more militiamen to hold the city. Herrmann Steffen garrisons the city with his uninfected force while I have set up camp outside Dijon, a small distance away from the SHA1.

https://img219.imageshack.us/img219/599/001jr7.jpg
https://img219.imageshack.us/img219/7762/019hz7.jpg

Odds: 10:3
https://img219.imageshack.us/img219/2883/023pd4.jpg

On a sidenote, I think I could have done better in both battles. Too used to MTW style battles currently as that's what I have been playing for the past few weeks.

Ramses II CP

02-12-2008, 18:12

Excellent Count Ruppel, it will be good to have you in the field again. The French foolishly appear to have marched many of their forces north, so I expect they will be in for some significant surprises in the coming seasons.

I would like to hear from Lord Becker, Duke Steffen and Prinz Dieter, and Count von Luxemburg and Kaiser Peter regarding their plans.

The season progresses very well! I look forward to shocking our enemies ever further.

Fritz von Kastilien.

OOC: Are cannon towers allowed? They're one of the largest exploits against an AI siege I can imagine, if the French can ever muster the wit to attack again.

TinCow

02-12-2008, 18:58

OOC: I will take a look at the save this evening after I get home. It may be a bit later than usual, as I've got to go vote this evening.

Cecil XIX

02-12-2008, 20:55

My chancellor, I would have your opinion on my situation.

My preference would be combine my army with your reinforcements, move as far as I am able, and wait until the next season to attack the noble-led Polish army. If you were to approve the recruitment of three additional companies of Militia Spearmen, then I would have a full twenty companies of maximum-to-moderate strength. The plague-ridden component could act as a flanking force, and attack the Polish army from behind. In this manner I would minimize casualties and be in the best position to move on Breslau immediately after, or to attack any other armies in the area.

Alternatively, I could assualt the army today. The cannon you brought me would not be able to participate, and I would leave the militia crossbowmen in Prague behind, but otherwise I could get every company in Bohemia, mercenaries included, into the battle. We would attack from three angles, and hopefully overwhelm them.

My problem with the second plan is that it will not get us to Breslau closer, it will allow the enemy to fight on more even terms, and it will give the Poles a chance to counter my advance. Nevertheless, know your preferences I would have your approval first.

Ramses II CP

02-12-2008, 21:23

Lord Becker I believe you underestimate the number of mercenaries available, which is understandable given the circumstances of their recruitment. My recommendation would be as follows (This is OOC as far as necessary to describe the mechanics of the situation):

1. Leave the Teutons, for the moment, behind and march one step east. Hire all available mercenaries. The Teutons do not have the 'movement' necessary to actually engage the Poles in battle directly, while the rest of your force does.

2. Follow the road without entering the Polish noble's zone of control until you are just over the border into the region of Breslau. Hire every mercenary available, filling out your force with high quality recruits.

3. Possibly position the Teutons so that they could reinforce your army during a battle with the Poles, and then move directly west to attack them.

If it's easier I can produce screenshots, or accomplish these movements myself and provide you with a pre-battle save. My concern about waiting is the sheer quantity of Polish troops in the area. That noble is almost certain to be reinforced if we don't hit him this season.

I am willing to recruit soldiers at Prague despite the plague, but I cannot predict what the consequences might be if they are used to attack Breslau or even an enemy army. I would strongly caution against moving them into any army you wish to keep reliable (My captain near Arhus has been sick for a looooong time. I suspect that shuffling forces back and forth causes a 'reinfection' to happen, and lengths the term of the plague.)

The ultimate decision is yours, of course, but I believe victory can be had this season, and momentum maintained against the Poles.

:egypt:

Cecil XIX

02-12-2008, 22:12

Indeed, I had not considered the mercenaries in Silesia. In that case I shall depart to take the field (i.e. the save) immediately.

gibsonsg91921

02-12-2008, 23:10

Brother, I shall go to protect Staufen like you suggested, receive my army, and return to Bavaria to fight my oldest enemy - the Greeks.

Cecil XIX

02-12-2008, 23:27

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1362-5.zip

Battle fought and won. I'll post the report and revelant screenshots when I'm not feeling so far under the weather.

Ramses II CP

02-13-2008, 00:06

Congratulations are in order again Lord Becker! I am very pleased with your progress. If you make it to Breslau all of Franconia will be forever in your debt, and rest assured I will not forget it.

My Kaiser, my brother, as soon as the siege of Metz is complete I will send you south with what cavalry can be spared, so that you march at full speed. If you are available you could draw some men from Count von Luxemburg's infantry and make the assault yourself now, otherwise I am sure the Swabian will be pleased to have a chance to recover that city this season.

edit: Feel better soon Cecil. Now, if we can take Breslau who the heck is going to hold it? I'll poke DG again, but otherwise the siege of Breslau may be lengthy, which given the plague in Prague should be okay with Becker I hope.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

TinCow

02-13-2008, 00:34

Taking the save to assault Florence (AT LAST!). I will coordinate the various armies in the area assigned to support the attack.

TinCow

02-13-2008, 02:09

They will DIE! THEY WILL ALL DIE! I demand that not a single Byzantine man, woman, or child on the Italian peninsula be harmed until I can be present to witness it!

The assault on Florence was a typical affair with the usual tactic of storming the gates and putting crossbowmen on the walls. Victory was had at a reasonable cost...

https://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b203/TinCow/KOTR/florence-results.jpg

...but then I tour my great city only to discover A GODDAMNED TAVERN WHERE MY PLEASURE PALACE ONCE STOOD! I WILL IMPALE THEM ON RUSTY SPEARS AND REND THEIR REMAINS INTO TATTERS OF PIG SLOP!

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1362-6.zip

Ramses II CP

02-13-2008, 03:05

My, err, heart grieves for your loss Duke Steffen, but I am also greatly impressed with your victory. Congratulations!

I must ask now, of you and Prinz Dieter, if I could bring the Prinz away north towards his home in Franconia? I know the French still hold Genoa, Count Erlach is still plagued, and a sizeable Byzantine army remains in the region, but the Prinz need not bring any great number of men with him as his generalship is needed more than his Imperial army.

It pleases me to no end to see an end to Byzantine control of our Bavarian holdings. I am not quite ready to move the capital and the Diet back to Rome, not with France and Hungary seemingly threatening to pincer in on Bavaria with the Byzantines not yet all in the grave, but I want to send my warmest appreciation to you for your efforts. Bavaria was my first area of focus, and in Bavaria we have had a great deal of success.

I would still like word from either Welf von Luxemburg or Kaiser Peter on progress at Metz. Either commander is authorized to use whatever infantry from Welf's army they feel is necessary to capture the city.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

TinCow

02-13-2008, 04:14

All non-Bavarians are free to leave Italy. We have the situation fully in hand. I will personally destroy the last remnants of the Byzantine forces in Italy next year. Bavaria will then turn its attention to the French in Genoa, and beyond that the provinces of Marsailles and Ajaccio. I swear that Bavaria will be the first Duchy to liberate all of her provinces and free them from the rule of lesser peoples.

econ21

02-13-2008, 09:40

Welf:

My Lord Chancellor,

I am preparing to assault Metz and will send word when the attack begins.

I have heard that Prinz Dieter is happy to march home to Franconia.

Yours

Welf

OOC: Taking the save

econ21

02-13-2008, 18:17

Welf:

My Lord Chancellor,

Metz has been taken. The French defenders - a noblemen and his escort, a regiment of Scots Guards and a regiment of dismounted Chivalric knights - fought bravely and with skill but were badly led and overwhelmed.

https://img115.imageshack.us/img115/7360/metzsiegesy2.jpg (https://imageshack.us)

I request that I be reunited with the army at the bridge and that we push on north this season. I am concerned that Antwerp be attacked and Sir Bohmen is placed in peril. If my army can move far enough north to provide him assistance next season if he is attacked, we may be spared a repeat of the debacle at Bruges.

Your servant,

Welf

EDIT: correct upload:

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1362-7.zip

Ramses II CP

02-13-2008, 18:46

Very good Count von Luxemburg! You will be marched north, though I am requisitioning one of your companies of Teutonic Knights for the Kaiser's army.

Unless there are (very soon) further requests for offensive action I am closing the season and moving forward now.

Edit: The save linked to is from last year. Thinking Econ had uploader troubles.

OOC: Taking the save.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-13-2008, 20:25

1362 Construction and Recruitment report (End of Season report)

Construction funds were limited by my belief that we have far greater needs in the field, still I was determined to follow such requests as had been submitted via the proper forms. To wit:

Prague: Alchemist's Lab
Vienna: Ballista Towers (RA was out of reach due to funds)
Adana: Ballista Towers (Acre's Heavy Armourer also out of reach)
Antioch: Church

and at Metz a Town Watch. The Cannon Towers at Dijon represented too great an investment for an ad hoc build and were dismissed. I prefer that we be on the offensive in any event. Additionally all repairs that were found to be necessary except those at Paris were made.

Recruitment was made a priority, as it can expect to be for the entire duration of my term in office. As such, recruitment occurred at nearly every training facility in the Reich. I will break it down by region:

Franconia
Frankfurt retrained Town and Spear militia, trained Teutonic Knights
Hamburg retrained Crossbow militia, trained two additional Crossbow militia
Arhus trained two Crossbow militia and one Spear militia
Madgeburg stands under siege, no training

Austria
Prague trained three companies of Spear militia, as requested
Vienna retrained Forlorn Hope and Spear militia, trained a Serpentine
Ragusa trained two Imperial Knights and one Mounted Crossbowmen
Venice retrained Town militia, trained two Spear militia

Bavaria
Nurmeburg retrained two Spear militia, trained one Spear militia
Innsbruck trained two Imperial Knights, one Teutonic Knights
Milan trained two Crossbow militia, one Spear militia
Bologna retrained two Spear militia, one Town militia
Florence recruited a spy
Rome trained Spear militia, two Crossbow militia
Naples retrained Crossbow militia, Halberd militia, and Spear militia
Palermo retrained Armoured Sergeats, Imperial Knights, and trained Reiters

Swabia
Bern retrained three Spear militia
Staufen retrained Feudal Knights, trained two Imperial Knights
Dijon retrained Spear milita, trained two Spear militia, as requested
Metz trained three Town milita
Paris saw no training
Antwerp trained Pike militia, two Arquebusiers

Outremer
Adana retrained Armoured Sergeants, trained Armoured Sergeants, Basilisk
Antioch trained Crossbow militia, Diplomat, Merchant
Acre retrained Pavise Crossbow, Teutonic Knights, trained Teutonic Knights

The defensive season is upon us, and there is only a single engagement (But multiple siege launches). Edmund Becker is being attacked by a very large army of Poles under Captain Janus. God grant you victory Lord Becker!

edit: The save if anyone else wants to take a look at the battle:

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1362-8.zip

(PM'ing Cecil, hope he feels better!)

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

FactionHeir

02-13-2008, 23:19

May I ask why construction had not been performed at Staufen nor Bern even though orders had been given?

Cecil XIX

02-13-2008, 23:47

OOC: Just have me withdraw, Ramses. I'd like to be at my best before confronting that army.

Ramses II CP

02-14-2008, 00:28

OOC: That would've been my decision too Cecil. Better to have the Teutons with you. The season will progress after I eat dinner. :beam:

Count Ruppel, if build orders were issued for those locations they were issued with the prior Chancellor, and so were deeper in my pile of papers than the build orders which were issued at the start of my own term. If funds had been sufficient to allow for construction at all sites, they would have filtered their way down to Bern and Staufen.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

FactionHeir

02-14-2008, 01:42

I'm afraid that due to the lack of ability to survey the various locations while being besieged, I had only been able to pass a message to the office that orders would resume where they had left off previously.

Ramses II CP

02-14-2008, 05:34

Chancellor's Report, 1364.

In summary, the previous year was a one of smashing success. Florence was recaptured, at long last, despite the loss of Duke Steffen's favorite Pleasure Palace. Dijon was relieved. Metz was taken, and Paris was raided and sacked. Adana crushed a Turkish attack, and the Byzantines feared to tread where so many of them had died before.

Diplomatic Report

Venice has been excommunicated, removing the need for us to refrain from attacking them.

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R7PCL5bqgFI/AAAAAAAAJRM/JgCxPnUy5gY/s800/0080.jpg

In darker news the Russians were not satisfied with being sold Oslo, and have declared war after a long peace. Hamburg is under siege by a small force of cavalry under a Russian noble. Our diplomatic corp spoke to them about the possibility of a ceasefire, and was firmly rebuffed. I wish to offer my personal assurances that the Russians will pay a blood debt for this treachery. (%&$^! How does that work? Beware Russians accepting gifts. Now I desperately wish we'd had a diplomat that could contact England last season.)

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R7PCS5bqgJI/AAAAAAAAJRw/ceVMIdDttg8/s800/0087.jpg

Relations with the Papacy improved to very good as two more German priests ascended to the College of Cardinals. Jan the Missionary and Edmund von Austria have been sworn in to the penultimate Catholic office.

The Office of the Exchequer

The financial situation reflects the quantity of soldiers we have in the field, but nonetheless I am pleased to report that sixteen thousand florins are available for spending.

http://lh3.google.com/RosDalton/R7PCPZbqgHI/AAAAAAAAJRc/Ynjtj-3Wg4w/s800/0084.jpg

An offer from the Teuton's Guild to build a Chapter House at Nuremburg could not be refused, at the cost of one thousand florins.

http://lh4.google.com/RosDalton/R7PCGpbqgCI/AAAAAAAAJQ0/w23A08mI4Fg/s800/0068.jpg

The Physician's Office

My own army and the smallest militia army in the field in the north have been declared free of the plague, but this is the sole, slight good news on this front.

Captain Ruprecht, near Arhus, remains infected along with the majority of the men I led into the field previously.

In Swabia Captain Gunther's large army remains infected, and Captain Michel, who leads only the ribault company, is also reportedly infected. Both should be kept isolated from clean troops and cities.

In Bavaria Fredericus Erlach still has not shaken the plague either.

Our spy in Krakow reports the loss of his experimental rats, so much the better in my opinion.

http://lh3.google.com/RosDalton/R7PCIZbqgDI/AAAAAAAAJQ8/7AWtVwMNRQk/s800/0071.jpg

The War Office

Outremer sees Adana once again under siege, this time by the Byzantine Captain Ermanes, who retreated from the Iron Bridge. No other developments of consequence, although a substantial engagement is shaping up between the Turks and Byzantines northeast of Adana.

Bavaria sees a fresh French army which appears to be marching towards Florence or points south. This is a large professional force of high quality. The plague at Genoa appears to have come to an end as well, though the French army there has not moved. Near Venice Prinz Dieter is in position to confront some rebels who have dared take up arms, and is welcome to draw on the garrison of Venice to aid him as necessary.

In Swabia the French have besieged Paris and moved an army to threaten Dijon, but not taken it under siege. As seems typical for the French all the armies which they sent north last year they have sent south this year. Hugo de Cervole is in position to reinforce Ludwig von Bohmen at the bridge southwest of Antwerp, and Welf von Luxemburg is in position to threaten Rheims. I'll have a more specific recommendation in the regional report later.

In Franconia the vile Russians betrayed our ceasefire and beiseged Hamburg with a small force of cavalry. Madgeburg still lies under Polish siege, by a relatively small and weak Polish army. Also the remnants of a Polish army sieged Frankfurt, but the garrison there was clearly superior and immediate sallied (Auto-calc'd it as the odds were 3-2 in our favor and no avatars in range).

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R7PCU5bqgKI/AAAAAAAAJR4/bMmNDfwskfs/s800/0089.jpg

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R7PCW5bqgLI/AAAAAAAAJSA/UnmtgAxppQs/s800/0090.jpg

Austria sees the Hungarians shifting their armies about aimlessly, with the captain stack which went west last season coming back east, and the Noble who went east last season now marching west. Durazzo is sieged by the Venetians.

Recruiting and Construction Report

As per previous with the addition of the Teuton's Guild at Nuremburg. Recruits have, except in a few rare circumstances, been left at the facility where the trained until it is determined what actions will be taken for the offensive season.

edit: Forgot to say, The offensive season is open!

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1364.zip

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-14-2008, 06:10

Regional recommendations:

Outremer:

Viceroy Matthias I am certain you will wish to sally. If you desire them for the battle, your cavalry reinforcements are aboard the ship just south of your Citadel.

Count von Salzgitter your army is unlikely to get larger. My recommendation is that you move to the port region and make ready to sail to Cyprus. After the siege of Adana is lifted I will ask Viceroy Matthias to load the basilisk aboard a ship and point it in the direction of the island so that next season you can ferry over as many of your men as possible and make ready for an assault.

Bavaria:

Duke Steffen my recommendation is that you allow Kaiser Peter or Count Erlach deal with the remaining Byzantines while you gather forces to prepare for the French. Your son has a few reinforcement just north of Bologna, and more heavy cavalry are ready to march south from Innsbruck. You are welcome to send either the spy near Genoa, or the spy at Florence into the city of Genoa.

The situation is complex if only in terms of combining armies and coordinating movements. Prinz Dieter, west of Venice, should draw on the garrison of that city as much as necessary to deal with the rebels facing him.

Austria:

You have drawn the attention of the Poles with your victories Lord Becker. You have a number of options. You could move around the Polish armies in front of you and, using your cannon, assault Breslau immediately. You could attack the Polish army due east of you, and then move to assault Breslau, but be aware that any men from that army might retreat into the city after you defeat them. You could also strike the northernmost Polish army, but I believe you would then be unable to proceed with the assault on Breslau. My advice is to smash the Poles in front of you first, without the use of your cannon but with the Teutons, and then march on Breslau, whcih would give you walls to defend against any further attack of the Poles.

Further south Vienna remains unthreatened. I will continue to train forces there to get that army back in the field Count Zirn.

Duke Arnold you have a decision to make. I trained heavy cavalry at Ragusa with the idea being that they could march north to meet you at about the same pace as the catapults. If you do not wish to delay another season you are welcome to proceed without either set of reinforcements, otherwise you should bring your reinforcements north to meet your men and march only a short distance north. You will then be in possession of a very powerful force, including the catapults, and ready to assault Zagreb the next year.

Swabia:

Count Ruppel you are in the position of once again warding Dijon, though this time you are in the field. The recruits at Staufen are also at your disposal, as those men would impede Count von Luxemburg's manuever too much for me to send them to him. Smash the French at Dijon and, barring you seeing a better option, wait patiently for Captain Gunther's camp to become free of plague.

Welf von Luxemburg my suggestion is that you or Hugo de Cervole infiltrate Rheims with the spy (In Hugo's stack) used at Paris and see if he can make a contact at the gates. If he cannot leave a small force there to lay siege (Don't forget the DFKs at Metz can reach Rheims!) and move to attack Captain Foucher if you believe you can find victory. If Count Ruppel acts first some of his men may be available to assist you with Captain Foucher.

Hugo de Cervole I would be deeply appreciative if you moved north to reinforce Ludwig von Bohmen at Antwerp. Submit training requests for the men you feel you will need to hold the city or the bridge and I will meet them.

I believe Bavaria is well in hand, thanks to Prinz Dieter and Duke Steffen, so I am shifting my focus to Swabia, which has already seen a impressive measure of success. This means priority will be given to recruitment requests from Swabians, for your information.

Franconia:

Duke Dieter I strongly advise you to sally as soon as possible. I believe the Polish army you face can be defeated, and with the Russians returning to the war we may need your forces in the field rather than behind the walls. If Count von Tyrolia is unable to field his own forces leave him at Madgeburg and we will cross that bridge when we come to it.

Fritz von Kastilien intends to march south to relieve Hamburg, and then return to Arhus to stand off the Danes who are moving very, very slowly towards the city.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

Zim

02-14-2008, 07:08

I will prepare to sail to for Cyprus then, Chancellor von Kastilien. The Viceroy is quite confident in his ability to take care of the Greeks in the area, and it is about time that Outremer begin to advance again.

_Tristan_

02-14-2008, 09:23

Hughes de Cervole

Chancellier,

I have confidence that I can make another sneak attack on Reims with the Merowinger fellow...

Once done with that city, I will turn north and attend to the situation in Flanders...

_Tristan_

02-14-2008, 11:49

Taking the save.

TinCow

02-14-2008, 13:20

I will abide by the Chancellor's recommendations for strategy in Bavaria. The Kaiser, Count Erlach, and the Prinz can prepare for action this year however they wish while I build an army to confront the French.

_Tristan_

02-14-2008, 13:20

New save

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1364-1.rar

Reims is now a city of the Reich and 16600 florins have been gained from looting it...

Only 4 of my retainers died.

I requested a unit of town guard from Metz to hold the walls at Reims.

I am now marching on Caen to continue wreaking havoc behind French lines.

Our spy Michel Merowinger is still in Reims but I would ask to have sent west with him in order to mount an assault on Caen.

I would also request the recruitment of any mercenary unit available in the area for that matter.

Ramses II CP

02-14-2008, 14:15

I'm recommending that the save go unused until I can top off the AI factions. Apologies gents.

:egypt:

AussieGiant

02-14-2008, 16:01

Lord Chancellor,

I'll wait for the reinforcements and catapults.

Then, instead of building the siege engines I'll simply storm the god damn city after smashing down the walls in the first week.

Zagreb will be Austrian again and the skulls of Hungarian's will line the roads all the way to Budapest after I've finished with them!!

Duke Arnold

Ramses II CP

02-14-2008, 22:34

OOC: The save is unfrozen, and the offensive season is once again in full swing!

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1364b.zip

I apologize to anyone whose action was delayed, but thanks to FH we're back on track now!

Now, hie ye forth and slaughter mine enemies!

:egypt:

Cecil XIX

02-15-2008, 01:25

So, how much time do we have?

Ramses II CP

02-15-2008, 02:30

OOC: I'm not going to push a time issue as the delay was my own fault. I would say we should try to move forward ~24 hours from now.

edit: These are the critical areas, as I see it:

Madgeburg

Adana

Breslau

West of Bologna (Count Erlach or Kaiser Peter)

Dijon and north of Dijon (Count Ruppel, Hermann Steffen, and Welf von Luxemburg in any way, shape, or form they decide)

6 total battles in addition to Hugo's capture of Rheims which has already happened. I don't believe Paris can be saved, nor is it necessary to attempt it, as the city is a wreck anyway, and I can hope the French will pay for the repairs for us.

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-15-2008, 02:37

Oh, and I forgot the minor rebel battle for Prinz Dieter. It won't matter if he does that this season or the next, as they pose little threat IMHO.

:egypt:

Cecil XIX

02-15-2008, 03:44

Hmm. Well, I won't be able to take the save until 16:00 GMT -5. Then I'll have to catch a train, but I should be able to upload the save when I arrive.

econ21

02-15-2008, 10:23

OOC: Taking the save for a look and possible battle.

econ21

02-15-2008, 11:43

Welf:

My Lord Chancellor,

As requested, I engaged Captain Foucher's army. Although of modest size, it was an elite formation.

https://img246.imageshack.us/img246/502/dijon21gz5.png (https://imageshack.us)

It has been eliminated but at a terrible the cost - I have lost a full half of my force.

https://img99.imageshack.us/img99/7770/dijon20xs1.jpg (https://imageshack.us)

I will provide a full report in due course.

I wish Count Ruppel every success in his forthcoming engagement.

Your servant

Welf

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1364c.zip

OverKnight

02-15-2008, 11:46

Taking the save for the sally out of Adana.

_Tristan_

02-15-2008, 12:25

Hughes de Cervole :

Chancellier,

I would request authorization to leave Reims and go west. I suggest sending some militia from Metz to hold Reims.

(OOC : placed near south of the watchtower west of Paris with some movement left)

I would ask to retain at my disposal our agent Merowinger... I think we have a meeting of minds with the man...

OverKnight

02-15-2008, 13:15

A tough sally, the Greeks had a better class of men than the Turks even though it was a similar force.

https://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb88/douglaslain/absaldeploy.jpg
https://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb88/douglaslain/wbsalvic.jpg

But they too have been eliminated, the few survivors will not trouble us again. The prisoners were executed, with an even better army on the way, I do not wish to face them twice, nor let stragglers through to Antioch.

Matthias

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1364d.zip

Edit: Ramses I didn't use the Tuetons as reinforcements since I didn't know where they'd deploy on the map. Could you move them into Adana before the end of the turn?

FactionHeir

02-15-2008, 13:33

Taking save

Ramses II CP

02-15-2008, 14:31

Sir von Luxemburg rest assured if you bring home victory I will not count the cost. Staufen will continue to train at best speed. Submit requests for the troops you would like added to your force in the next season and I will meet them.

Well done Viceroy Matthias, the Teutons will be moved into Adana. With Andreas making ready to depart for Cyprus you will be warding the mainland alone for at least a season. With that in mind do you have any training requests of your own?

Sir de Cervole I will be in touch about your movements. I concur that you and agent Merowinger have done great things together. I won't be asking you to defend Rheims (OOC: I just hadn't reproduced the movements you made after the sack of Rheims yet :beam: ), at least not from within the walls.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

FactionHeir

02-15-2008, 15:08

The French outside Dijon have been defeated, albeit at a rather steep cost. Fortunately, my physicians were able to aid the recovery of many hundred men, who have since moved to reinforce Welf von Luxemburg if he should be attacked.

Myself, I have hired some mercenaries to bolster the battered household armies, but was not able to rejoin with Welf until the next year. I have also sent my Feudal Knights towards Staufen for retraining and hope they will be returned to me shortly.

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1364e.zip

https://img227.imageshack.us/img227/8776/001uj4.jpg
https://img227.imageshack.us/img227/3549/008id5.jpg

Ramses II CP

02-15-2008, 17:34

Count Ruppel I hope that you recalled the fact that Captains Gunther and Michel's armies were suffering from the plague and did not move their formations into Welf von Luxemburg's healthy men.

edit: Taking a closer look at the reports I see now what you mean. I will be sending both companies of fresh Imperial Knights from Staufen forward to your army Count Ruppel.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-15-2008, 18:46

These are the gentlemen I still need to hear from regarding their plans:

1. At Milan Count Erlach or Kaiser Peter are invited to deal with the last Byzantine army on the Italian peninsula. If neither of those nobles is available I may ask Duke Steffen if he feels he would be able to ride out to command this battle (Drawing in men from where ever you feel necessary) and then return to near enough Florence to command it's defense against the French. (OOC: You may not want to be inside Florence in the event of their laying siege anyway.).

2. At Madgeburg Duke Dieter or Count von Tyrolia should sally if at all possible. (OOC: Looking at the armies this appears to be another one that could be auto-calc'd with confidence, but I'd prefer it if you fought it EF.)

3. At Breslau Lord Becker has given me a time frame for his action. Thank you and God grant you victory!

4. Prinz Dieter's minor action against those rebels. It can wait for next season if he so prefers, otherwise he should draw on the garrison at Venice to aid him in battle.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

Cecil XIX

02-15-2008, 22:26

I am posting this immediately before leaving for my train. Considering that there are still issues to be resolved, and my action will likely be the last of the season, I have decided I will wait until I have arrived at my destination to take the save. This should cause only a small delay, rest assured I will fight my battle before I sleep tonight.

Ramses II CP

02-16-2008, 05:37

OOC: Understood Cecil. If no one sounds off about the fight against the Byzantines or at Madgeburg I'm closing the save first thing in the morning and moving forward. Madgeburg will be autocalc'd to avoid character death, even if it's a draw. If you have objections make them known EF.

:egypt:

Cecil XIX

02-16-2008, 06:05

Taking the save.

Cecil XIX

02-16-2008, 08:14

Gentlemen, I have met the enemy. We traded blows, each giving as good as he got, but I failed to coordinate effectively with the reinforcement I called up from Prague and neither side was able to gain an advantage. Thus I withdrew, as the time was not right to risk paving the Pole's road to Nuremburg and Prague. My infantry is in good order, but my cavalry has been virtually wiped out and my archers and artillery have been heavily depleted.

https://img120.imageshack.us/img120/9016/medieval220080216014810op2.png

During the course of the battle I noticed that despite m inferior number of ranged units our crossbowmen and artillery did very well. If I receive heavy reinforcements in that area, perhaps two companies of crossbowmilitia and a bombard company from Prague, I should expect to resume offenses immediately with a good chance of victory.

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1364f.zip

Ramses II CP

02-16-2008, 08:22

You will be reinforced as quickly as it can be arranged Lord Becker. With the new Teutonic Knights Guild in Nuremburg you can expect more heavy cavalry in short order.

There is no shame in withdrawing in the face of a superior opponent.

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

Ferret

02-16-2008, 11:37

OOC: My battle can be auto calced, I've got a history essay to write

Ramses II CP

02-16-2008, 14:08

The season is at a close, and I will be moving forward the defensive season very soon. I'm disappointed by the lack of activity in the Bavarian theatre, but I will do my best to position our men to defend Milan and Florence, though if the French are clever Bologna may stand somewhat exposed.

Fritz von Kastilien

(OOC: I'm also going back to the old naming convention again to avoid confusion.)

:egypt:

TinCow

02-16-2008, 15:42

OOC: If there's still time, I can do the Byzantine battle.

Ramses II CP

02-16-2008, 16:04

(OOC: Sorry TC, too late.)

1364 Recruitment and Construction Report (End of Season report)

The final engagement of the season saw Duke Dieter sally again at Madgeburg.

http://lh3.google.com/RosDalton/R7b6QpbqgOI/AAAAAAAAJT0/qPtCZGCcVx4/s800/0028.jpg

As you may have come to expect, construction was limited this season to a single structure, a Tourney Field at Staufen. In part this was due to my desire to ensure that we had sufficient funds to pay potential ransoms during the defensive season. As it turned out that was unecessary, as there were no defensive engagements.

Staufen: Tournament Field

Recruitment was my priority, and it took place at almost every facility in the Reich. By region:

Franconia
Arhus: retrained 1 Spear milita, trained 2 Crossbow milita
Madgeburg: retrained 1 Pavise Crossbow, trained 2 Pavise Crossbow
Frankfurt: retrained 1 Crossbow and 1 Spear militia, trained Teutonic Knights
Hamburg: no training due to siege

Austria
Prague: trained 3 Crossbow militia
Vienna: trained 2 Serpentine, 1 Forlorn Hope, additionally Jan Zirn procured mercenaries from the east, but was forced to retreat in the face of a Hungarian advance
Ragusa: retrained 1 Peasant Archers and 1 Feudal Knights, trained 1 Sergeant Spearmen
Venice: retrained 1 Spear militia, trained 1 Spear militia, 1 Town militia

Bavaria
Nurmeburg: trained 1 Spear militia, 2 Teutonic Knights
Innsbruck: trained 3 Mounted Crossbowmen
Milan: trained 1 Crossbow milita, 2 Spear militia
Bologna: trained 1 Spear militia, 1 Merchant Cavalry militia, spy
Florence: retrained 1 Mercenary Pavise Crossbowmen, trained spy and assassin, Wenzel Steffen was also sent south to recruit mercenary knights
Rome: trained 2 Spear militia, 1 Crossbow militia
Naples: retrained 1 Spear militia, 2 Crossbow militia
Palermo: retrained 2 Pavise Crossbow, trained 1 Pavise Crossbow

Swabia
Bern: retrained 1 Merchant Cavalry militia, 1 Town militia, trained 1 Merchant Cavalry militia
Staufen: retrained 2 Pavise Crossbow, trained 1 Mounted Crossbowmen
Dijon: trained 2 Crossbow militia, 1 Forlorn Hope
Metz: retrained 1 Spear militia, trained 1 Town militia, spy
Rheims: trained 3 Crossbow militia
Antwerp: trained 3 Crossbow milita

Outremer
Acre: trained 3 Pavise Crossbow
Antioch: trained Merchant, 2 Crossbow militia
Adana: retrained Sergeant Spearmen, Pavise Crossbow, trained Imperial Knights

I must further offer my apologies to Viceroy Matthias. In a clerical error the Teutonic Knights aboard ship south of Adana were not sent to his Citadel, but moved to participate in Andreas' attack on Nicosia. I will return them to you at the first available chance Viceroy.

I am further displeased to have to report that our spies failed to make entry to the city of Genoa, costing two of them their lives. As expected Paris fell to the French and Durazzo was taken by the Venetians.

http://lh6.google.com/RosDalton/R7b6SZbqgPI/AAAAAAAAJT8/xxiXv7TlJC0/s800/0060.jpg

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R7b6UJbqgQI/AAAAAAAAJUE/dFNJtvzssMw/s800/0062.jpg

Florence was heavily reinforced but the French took it under siege nonetheless. God grant you victory Duke Steffen! If you require further resources make your requests and I will meet them. I expect they will assault at the close of this season.

To reiterate, no defensive engagements. Expect the Chancellor's Report soon!

Fritz von Kastilien

TinCow

02-16-2008, 16:13

OCC: Haven't looked at the save yet. Do I have any chance of winning this battle?

Ramses II CP

02-16-2008, 16:41

Chancellor's Report, 1366.

In summary 1364 was a year of measured success. Costly victories were brought home in Swabia, while Bavaria braced for a French attack. Madgeburg sallied successfully, but Lord Becker suffered a reversal in the field. Viceroy Matthias crushed another Byzantine attack against Adana. Duke Arnold marched north to recapture Zagreb.

Diplomatic Report

The English rejected an attempt go exchange military access, and seem unlikely to entertain further offers without a substantial quantity of florins or territory on the table.

The Office of the Exchequer

The financial situation was sufficient to allow for near universal recruitment, which is all a good soldier can ask of his merchants. Available currency for this season is just over twenty thousand florins. The Theives' Guild had the termerity to approach me about opening a Guild house at Arhus, and they were suitably rebuffed. I will not invite theives into one of our richest cities as I cannot see how it could be profitable in the long term.

The Physician's Office

I am very pleased to report that the army of Fredericus Erlach is now free of the plague. Following this season's engagements his more veteran companies will be rotated off the front and retrained as soon as possible.

Unfortunately the city of Prague and all of our armies under Captains which were previously infected, remain so, including the men Lord Becker brought out of Prague. Specifically:

Captain Ruprecht near Arhus. I dismissed many of his men last season in disgust and in the hope that a smaller camp would be cleaner, but I was mistaken.

Captains Dimarus and Michel near Welf von Luxemburg.

Captain Elberhard, encamped near Lord Becker.

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R7cDK5bqgRI/AAAAAAAAJVA/hz2HH6dAqAk/s800/0070.jpg

The War Office

In Outremer the Byzantines have noted the absence of Count von Salzgitter and marched back to the Iron Bridge. The Byzantines also sent their army near Nicosia east to drive off the Tuetonic Knights who had landed as scouts (Had to put them ashore to observe KotR rules), but the men were able to retreat to the ships. With Adana not under siege I decided to send across as many men as I could under Count von Salzgitter, including the Basilisk, and lay siege to Nicosia. The remaining men near Antioch have moved back to the Iron Bridge, which should allow Viceroy Matthias to crush the Byzantines between his army and the men at the bridge. I have also moved a spy into the Byzantine citadel at Caesarea.

http://lh5.google.com/RosDalton/R7cDN5bqgTI/AAAAAAAAJVQ/J6axJZm0HRc/s800/0075.jpg

Bavaria sees Florence sieged, and an army assembling under Kaiser Peter facing the last Byzantine army in the region. Count Erlach should assist the Kaiser in destroying the last of the Byzantines. Prinz Dieter must now drive off those rebels near Venice and then march north towards his homelands in Franconia. In a dramatic move Hermann Steffen moved south to assail Marsellies, hiring mercenaries along the way, including a ribault to smash open the gates and allow him to assault immediately.

The Swabians have lost Paris, and I fear the approach to Caen is too well guarded for Hugo de Cervole to slip by, but news is otherwise positive. Rheims is free of siege, indeed the English have marched into the Rheims area, perhaps to offer their aid, and the bridge west of Antwerp is still in our hands. The French are mustering many armies to march east, including one which has come out of the west to potentially threaten Dijon, but I believe Swabia is in a good position to hold her ground this year and advance the next.

Franconia saw little action. A contingent of men from Madgeburg moved southeast to attempt to reinforce Lord Becker, but were cut off by the Polish and cannot proceed this year. I will relieve Hamburg later in the season (These reports take so bloody long I haven't had time to fight, plus I'd like to know if I'll have funds left for mercenaries, though they aren't essential). Duke Dieter had a fine suit of armor commissioned at Madgeburg in his spare time.

http://lh3.google.com/RosDalton/R7cDMZbqgSI/AAAAAAAAJVI/B5GxaQdR0eA/s800/0071.jpg

Austria saw more aimless shifting of Hungarian armies about. The noble who went west last season marched back east this season, and the captain who came back east marched back west. I am starting to believe the approach of Duke Arnold is driving them mad. Durazzo fell to the Venetians, so Duke Arnold may be forced to march back south in some haste. Near Vienna Jan Zirn was forced to withdraw with his fresh mercenary recruits, and now holds the bridge northwest of Vienna with his brother Johann Zirn and a sizeable army.

The offensive season is now open! Regional recommendations will follow soon.

http://www.mizus.com/files/pbm/kotr1366.zip

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-16-2008, 16:47

OOC: I reinforced Florence with everything I had for you TC as the French were being pretty obvious about their intent. If the AI can take Huge Walls from you with the men I've placed in the area, I'll be amazed. Also if you can spur Kaiser Peter or Count Erlach to finish off the **** Byzantines this year then all of their men will also be available.

Nobody dies on my shift! Well, not due to lack of men, that's for sure.

:egypt:

Ramses II CP

02-16-2008, 17:15

Regional recommendations:

Outremer:

Viceroy Matthias I advise you to march down to pincer the Byzantines between yourself and the captain at the Iron Bridge.

Count von Salzgitter I have shipped across all the men I could and you are in position to use your cannon to assault the lightly held citadel at Nicosia. I believe there are mercenaries available on the island, but I doubt you will need more men than you have, at least not until the Byzantines attempt to take the citadel back.

Bavaria:

Kaiser Peter or Count Erlach now is the time to strike the last Byzantine army in Italy. Make them pay. Afterward Duke Steffen may ask your aid at Florence.

Duke Steffen there may be profit in a limited sally, but I am not certain you could drive off the French. I do believe you have the tools necessary to hold the walls.

Hermann Steffen the Swabians seem to have their situation well under control, while the French attack at Florence has emptied their lands behind it, so you have been detatched to strike behind them and recapture Marsellies. Cut their enclave at Genoa off from the rest of their nation!

Prinz Dieter put the rebels you're facing to the sword and march north at speed. You may draw on the garrison of Venice to aid you. (This battle may be auto-calc'd if it isn't fought. No big deal.)

Austria:

Lord Becker the Poles appear to have left Breslau virtually undefended. Perhaps they felt you would be too disheartened by your nominal defeat to proceed. There is a problem, however, in that one of the Polish armies which faced you has disappeared and a third Polish army seems to be marching out of the south east, possibly towards Prague. I have sent three more companies of Teutons into the area, but they were exhausted by their march. How to proceed is completely at your discretion.

Johann Zirn you are holding the bridge north of Vienna against an approaching force of Hungarians. If you believe you can find victory you are welcome to drive out and attack them, otherwise hold the bridge.

Duke Arnold Zagreb awaits you.

Franconia:

I will make the Russians pay at Hamburg and march back north to Arhus, where the Danes are still reluctant to advance (I was concerned that the captain on the western island was giving them pathing problems, so I removed him, but Stenkil is still stuck and the captain stack isn't moving behind him.)

Duke Dieter if you intend to depart Madgeburg, this is the season. Otherwise wait and I'm sure the Poles will lay siege again soon.

Swabia:

Count Ruppel, Welf von Luxemburg, I wish you two men to sort out between yourselves which companies of men you'd each like to take with you. Then I will ask Count Ruppel to march west to block the advance of the French towards Dijon, and Sir von Luxemburg to march north and prepare to aid the defenders of Rheims against a likely French assault. (OOC: If you want to swap men around to balance out your forces send me a list and I'll make it happen, then I'm moving Welf north and Ruppel west as I said)

Huge de Cervole I believe the French have learned to fear you, as Paris now hosts a massive garrison, and the road to Caen is lined with French armies. Perhaps this is a good time to march north to aid Count von Bohmen, but if you'd like I will try to find you a concealed region closer to Caen so you can try again next season.

I believe that is all gentlemen. I expect this will be another great season of success for the Reich!

Fritz von Kastilien

:egypt: