Stories Thread

[TheFlax]

((Written in collaboration with Elite Ferret, Zim, Deguerra and PrivateerKev))

Athens, November 1094

Without any announcements or notice, a young woman entered the halls of House Asteri in a confident stride. She wore a veil, as was custom for high ranking women, yet her somber clothing of alternating shades of greys was more akin to a servant's garb than that of a noblewoman.

She addressed all present in the room with an imperious tone. "Take me to Kosmas Mavrozomis."

Hypatios was startled by her sudden entrance. Having only just returned from Rhodes he had not washed and so was embarrassed by her presence.

"My lady," he bowed deeply, so deep in fact that he stumbled and struggled to regain his balance, flushing in the process.

"Kosmas is in his private chambers at this moment, would you like me to fetch him here or will you go to him?"

A lot of the words failed to flow from his mouth freely which, as well as making him hard to understand, further added to his embarrassment.

If the princess was amused at the man's bumbling demeanor, she hid it well.

"Compose yourself and then take me to Comes Mavrozomis." She replied in a stern voice, reminiscent of a tutor berating his student for some mistake.

Hypatios expression instantly hardened.

"My lady, I understand that you are of high birth but you must also understand that I am no slave. You happen to be speaking to one of the leading nobles of this House and a personal friend to Kosmas. You may one day find me to be in a more powerful position than your father, so I discourage you from insulting me, and I know that was an insult, your subtlety cannot fool me."

The sudden change in the man was staggering, a moment ago he could barely utter a whisper yet now he spoke firmly and fluently. He smiled,

"Kosmas' chambers are this way, on the other side of the estate. I can fetch a carriage if your pampered feet cannot handle such peasant's work."

The last comment was muttered, though still audible, and thick with sarcasm and scorn. Though he did now fear whether he would seem too aggressive and pompous, despite the advice a 'wise man' had given him on how to win a woman's heart.

Anna's stern expression changed to one of exasperation.

"I need not insult those who make fools of themselves. I advise you to keep your snide comments to yourself and change your attitude, you may fall upon someone far less forgiving than I someday."
As Anna finished her admonition, foot steps could be heard approaching. Kosmas, dressed casually and bearing an easy smile, entered the room and bowed to her.

"Princess Anna, after so many unpleasant surprises these past few days it is wonderful to encounter the other kind. I trust my man Hypatios was acquainting you with the amenities of our House's headquarters?" Kosmas' facial features bore no sign that he had noticed the tension in the room but the way his eyes narrow slightly in thought as he glanced from Hypatios to the Princess suggested otherwise.

Hints of a genuine smile could be seen through Anna's veil.

"Comes Mavrozomis. It is good to see you again, I have travelled to Athens solely to meet you. I hope I shall not be disappointed. May we speak in private?"
Kosmas' smile broadened as it was met by Anna's.

"Of course. There is a room nearby where we may speak alone, right this way."

Kosmas led Anna to a small room some distance away from the Main Hall. There were a few well worn books and scrolls on a large table in the center. Close inspection revealed these to be religious texts, including a copy of the New Testament, the Septuagint, and a number of Monk's Lives. The only striking decoration in the room was a large tapestry on one wall taken up only by a giant Chi Rho symbol in white on a black background.

Kosmas quickly glanced over the room, letting his eyes rest on the tapestry a moment, before turning back to Anna.

"No one will intrude on us here. I take it from your request for privacy that there is something of importance to discuss?"

Anna nodded. "I need a ship and it is said that for now you have many under your command. I need to get to Antioch."

Kosmas' eyes narrowed for the second time that night, as if considering options. "It is true that through the kindness of the Basileus I have had access to many ships, but I am guessing that a crude transport ship would not be adequate to your needs. I own a personal ship with amenities more suiting one of your stature. If it pleases you, I can transport you and your retinue to Antioch."

Anna undid part of her veil to show a warm smile. "That is most kind of you." She turned her back to him and moved to a window. "Although, I should mention I am traveling alone. I am ready to leave whenever you can get your ship ready."

Kosmas paused a moment before bowing and speaking. "It just so happens that Comes Makedonios recently invited me to Antioch. My ship is already just about outfitted for the journey, with no more than a single day needed to finish stocking up on provisions. You will take my cabin of course, although I fear even it is not as luxurious as becomes a daughter of the Basileus. I will sleep with the crew. Is there anything you would like my servants to pick up in town tomorrow to make the trip more pleasant for you?"

She turned back to Kosmas, her head lowered, not daring looking upon him. Her voice was hesitant, as if she was struggling to say the words.

"I was hoping to get to get to Antioch inconspicuously. I... I would require some clothing more fitting... your servant."

The last words seemed especially hard for her.

Kosmas' eyes widened briefly in shock. I wonder what manner of trouble I'm letting myself get into? Recovering quickly, Kosmas smiled again, and bowed to Anna once more. "It shall be as you request. There is a servant on the grounds about your size, so procuring such clothing for you on the pretense of buying it for her should be done easily enough without arousing suspicion. The sleeping arrangement on the ship will be somewhat awkward if you are to pose as my servant, but we will figure something out. In the meantime, do you have a place to stay the night while the ship is outfitted? If not we can try to arrange something here that will not attract notice."

Not daring to face Kosmas, out of shame, she replied meekly. "I'm afraid I'll have to impose, having nowhere else to stay."

--------------------------------

A ship docked in Athens, November 1094

A sharp knock is heard on the cabin door, and without waiting for an answer, Ioannis Kalameteros entered the cabin. He had changed in the years since their last meeting. His body looked thinner, weaker; his face more gaunt. His arms still seemed slightly out of proportion, but they no longer conveyed the same strength they once did, as Ioannis had to steady himself on the doorframe. He seemed tired and much older, but the cold fire in his eyes was still the same.

Ioannis only heard a sharp gasp of surprise and caught a hint of bare flesh as Anna quickly wrapped the bed's blanket around herself in an effort to maintain her modesty. Servant's clothes laid haphazard throughout the room. For once she found herself at a loss for words, she couldn't even manage angry rebuke and her gaping mouth stayed silent. Her wide eyes fixed Ioannis in horror and shock, akin to a wild animal backed into a corner.

Taken aback for only an instant, Ioannis studied Anna with a teasing smile for slightly longer than he should. The dream of half the Strators in the Senate come true. Much prettier without all that decoration, and without the usual royal haughtiness. He turned around, averting his eyes. "Forgive my intrusion Princess, but I heard you were leaving in a hurry. It appears you have convinced Kosmas to take you to Antioch. I can spare myself the question of why, but what exactly do you think you will accomplish there?"

At his inquiries, Anna regained some of her senses. Her expression turned cold and her eyes narrowed. "Out!" she commanded in a firm and sharp voice.

Ioannis turned around. He gave the pile of servants clothes on the ground a brief, meaningful look and turned his eyes ruthlessly back on her. "I do not think you are in a position to give orders, Princess," he emphasized the last word, "I can only hope that you are going to Antioch for a very good reason. If you were found out... Well, obviously I need not tell you." He gestured to the clothes at her feet.

Covered only by a blanket, Anna managed nonetheless to keep her dignity. "Ioannis. Leave the room for an instant and when you return you will find me as compliant as someone in those clothes should be."

One last time he studied her face, trying to control a rising temper, the corners of his mouth twitching slightly with the effort. It really is a rather pretty face. "Do not try obsequious servitude with me, Anna. I want none of it, and I wouldn't believe it from you if you were scrubbing my boots." A pretty face, red with embarrassment. Deciding he had been cruel long enough, he turned around again and exited the cabin, closing the door behind him.

A few minutes later, the cabin's door was silently pushed slightly ajar from the inside, inviting Ioannis back inside.When he did, he found the room had sparsely changed, save for Anna standing at a respectful distance and fully dressed as a servant.

If anything, Ioannis' mocking smile was greater at the servant's attire than the blanket. "So, Anna", he recommenced in a low voice, "just what do you intend to do in Antioch?"

She kept her eyes lowered, as if in the presence of an august being. It was hard to say if she was truly submissive or simply hiding her features from the man who confronted her. "I simply wish to speak to Makedonios, nothing more."

Ioannis' face twisted, his rage pouring out of him as he stepped in closer to her. "I told you not to try your tricks with me! Either you are actually so stupid as to blindly run to that... that man without thinking, in which case you are no more smart than a flittery little girl, or you are lying to me. I am not sure which is worse, but at least if you are lying that shows you still have your wits about you." He noticeably calmed, but continued to glare at her.

Anna remained a tower of calm, unaffected by Ioannis' outburst."If you wish to read me as you would a book, you must first learn the language in which I am written."

He gave a short laugh, his features almost seeming to strain at the effort of not frowning. "Very poetic. I'm afraid I'm not much good with literature. I do know quite a bit about people." His face grew calm again, his expression turned blank. "Whatever you plan on Antioch, is there a way I can help?"

She finally met his gaze with her own, hints of a smile visible on her features. "Do you know who wants me dead?"

Considering briefly, he answered "I do not." He shrugged, "I have my suspicions, but nothing of substance."

Anna nodded thoughtfully. "For my part, I intend to strike back. Let us simply say Makedonios will be instrumental in what I plan." She smiled. "See? That wasn't so hard."

He gave her a genuine smile: "Speak for yourself. If I can be of further assitance..." He left the words hanging in the room.

The silence persisted for some time as she scrutinized Ioannis, her eyes searching his soul. "You truly do not know anything about the attacks on my person?" She placed an emphasis on the plurality of attacks, paying a close attention to his reaction. "Or perhaps, you know something about who would hire my staff to spy on me?"

He studied her for a long time, silently. Finally he sighed. "Pay people to spy on you? Anyone would." He smiled. "I did. I know little of Verina's attack on you, but if she was paid to kill you, it was not by me."

Ioannis' words left Anna dazed and stripped her of her ability of speech for a second time.

He gave a slight smile at her startlement. "While we're being honest, why don't you tell me what your intentions are for Makedonios?"

Her pale face flushed at his question as she struggled to maintain a steady voice. "I had hoped he would lend me use of an estate owned by the Order, but now... Now you have changed my priorities Kalameteros." She spat the name like a curse. "I will try my best to make your life as miserable as I can."

Again he studied her silently. Eventually he gave a quick, mirthless laugh. "Not much one for honesty, then. As for your pathetic threats. You are in my city, surrounded by men loyal to my House, going on a voyage you wish to keep a secret to meet a man you should probably not be seen meeting, dressed as a servant. I could kill you right now. And you threaten me? You have courage, I'll give you that."

Anna gave her best smirk. "You sad little fool, do you truly think I move throughout the Empire without my father's knowledge? Although, if you wish to seal your fate and that of your House with my death, I can hardly stop you."

"Yes. It just so happens I think your father has no idea where you are. Not that it matters. As I said, if I had wanted you dead, I could have paid for it years ago. I have no quarrel with you. I only seek to understand yours with me."

Incredulity crept on her feature, while her voice remained cold and barren of emotions. "Every action you take had some unforeseen consequence. My foolish confidante tried to kill me because I happened upon her little scheme." She shook her head in disbelief. "While others are content to attempt to influence me, you go too far. You go where you should not, you tread on my life without regard to anything other than your own selfish interests and then you ask what you have done to attract my ire? I tire of your mockery, you know very well your crimes against my person."

Ioannis started shaking his head before she was even finished. "You are so much more naive than I thought. You are a Princess of the Roman Empire. People will tread on your life, and they will try to kill you, and you will get caught up in the schemings not only of a family and a court, but of an entire Empire. I have committed no crime but seeking information, and had it not been me on bribing your servant, it would have been another. One, I might add who would not be so honest about their intentions as I. So, if I may give you some advice, get thee to a nunnery, or get used to it. You may not like me for it, Princess, but I never asked you to like me. What I asked for was a business partner. Sadly, it seems my faith in your wits and intelligence was misplaced. As for your threats, do your worst. I have lost everything I held dear in this world a long time ago. Now if you will excuse me, I have wasted my time with you quite long enough."

Anna stood expressionless as she watched him leave. The exchange had left her unsure about many things, save one. Her resentment for Ioannis Kalameteros had just reached unprecedented heights.

-----------------------------------

Antioch, December 1094

A servant entered Makedonios' room. A woman dressed in plain whites and grays, her bowed head and simple linen cap covering her features. She glided without a sound to his side and whispered in his ear.

"Makedonios..."

With the reflexes of a soldier, he reached under his pillow for his dagger and pulled it out while sitting up. When he saw her face, he recognized it instantly and dropped the knife on the floor.

"Anna!"

He quickly composed himself and remembered that formalities were required.

"Forgive me for being so informal your Highness. But you startled me. What are you doing here?"

As he sat up, Anna saw that he had changed a little. He was past 30 now. A decade of pneumonia had wracked his body and left him gaunt. His right shoulder was heavily bandaged. At least now he was out of the tent and in a proper room. But his eyes were still the same. She could tell the passion in them, for both his holy mission and for her, had not gone out despite the trials he had endured.

The room was simple and spartan despite being in one of the better buildings in Antioch. A table by the bed was piled with the books Anna had sent him. Many bookmarks could be seen sticking out from them. And a stack of letters threatened to fall over onto the floor.

She took of the cap which held her hair and at last, Makedonios could take in her features fully. This time, her face was worn without any cosmetics and its flaws were revealed. Her cheeks were pale, as her face, lacking the proper red tint required for beauty and her hair was a tangled mess held by a simple wooden comb. She easily looked the part of a servant.

"I needed to see you again Makedonios, with all that has happened I needed to speak to someone I could trust." She smiled. "Considering what I am wearing and the fact I am not even supposed to be here, you can drop the formalities."

Makedonios sat back for a moment in shock as he took in her full features for the first time. She looks even better without the makeup, he thought. After staring for an awkward second, he spoke.

"I'm sorry but you do not stop being who you are all because your dressed different your Highness. While it is good to see you again, I apologize that you have to see me in such a poor condition. But I am honored by your kind words. Please, let me know what has been going on and if it is in my power to help, I will."

Anna kneeled at the side of his and looked up to him. "I fear I may first have to impart troubling news. Ioannis Kalameteros intercepted me as I came here. I know not if he will reveal my coming here to anyone, but he harangued me and threatened to kill me. In the past I have overlooked his impertinence, yet he has gone too far this time."

At first he was troubled by the fact that someone of royalty had placed themselves lower than him, so as to make him look down on them. But he quickly forgot about that when he heard the word 'kill'. His eyes narrowed and his features hardened.

"I have long grown tired of that man. If it wasn't for my friendship with Kosmas, I would have already gone to the Emperor with the evidence I have of his meddling in your affairs. But this is too far. I'll have to think of how to make him hurt without causing too much harm to his House. And if I can't think of a way to do that, then I'll just think of a way to make him hurt."

Anna had never seen Makedonios like this. He had the steely cold resolve of a soldier who just learned that the woman he was falling for had been seriously threatened. Finally, he asked, "Tell me, what exactly happened."

At those words, she proceeded to recount her latest encounter with Ioannis Kalameteros in great detail, striving to omit nothing. At first she had thought of embellishing the tale, but she soon realized it was damning enough as it was.

Makedonios shook his head. "That man truly has no morals, standards, or values. I guess being trapped on that island has warped his mind even more. You might consider going to your father with this news. With enough pressure, Kosmas will be forced to eject Ioannis or suffer his whole House being alienated in the Senate."

With his usually stone face etched with emotion he said, "I'm glad you're ok. With the two attempts on your life, and this new threat, I worry about you. I don't know what I'd do if anything ever happened to you."

Anna shook her head lightly. "I cannot go to my father, unless I reveal I traveled here." Her pleasant features grew harder. "Ioannis would not dare harm me, do not worry, he is not that much of a fool. There is no need to harm his House, I only wish to see him suffer as I did whenever he insinuated himself in my life."

He nodded. "Well it's something to keep in mind. I'm sorry if I seem overbearing but I have grown... protective of you. My feelings for you have grown a great deal. Regardless of what your father decides with the issue of who you will marry, I suspect I will always feel this way."

She replied in a tender voice. "I have worried about you too." Then rose and sat beside him on the bed. "I also have a favor to ask you. You mentioned the Order having land in Konstantinopolis and I would require a building, preferably out of the way. Can you accommodate me?"

He smiled and enjoyed her closeness. "Of course. Since we require all members to turn over their belongings upon joining the Order, we have acquired a large amount of land all over the Empire. I can provide you with a building that fits your needs."

"I can also guarantee your privacy and security there. While the land owned by the Order is a matter of public record, they won't know which one your in. Plus, the number of properties in the city under our control is numerous. People would have difficulty watching them all. And no one but me will know which one your occupying. As for security, I can detail men I trust to guard the building who won't talk or ask questions."

"Now, you said Ioannis intercepted you on the way here so discussing him was not the reason you originally came. And you could have asked about the building in a letter. What brought you to take such risks in traveling here? Is there something else you want or need to discuss?"

Anna rose and turned to stand before him. "Actually, I simply wanted to see you and since the building is crucial for what I plan, I did not wish to risk a letter. Now that I am here, is there anything you wish to say before I leave?"

Oh only about a million things, but they can wait for when circumstances are happier, he thought. While he wished to find excuses to postpone her leaving, he knew she had to get back.

"It was good to see you your Highness. It means a lot to me that you came all this way just to talk to me in person. Just please be careful and do not hesitate to write to me if you need anything or want to talk. I'm sorry I could not show you around the city. Perhaps next time when I feel better."

Anna placed the crude cap on her head once more. "May God watch over you Makedonios so that I may have the pleasure of your company, sooner rather than later. Farewell." Promptly, she turned and left the room in hurried steps.

[AussieGiant]

(Coop with OverKnight)

Bucharest, 1093

Apionnas looked down with some trepidation at the city below, holes in the wall where being repaired and an Orthodox church was being constructed near it’s centre. The final part of his journey into the city seemed to flash by, before he realised his surroundings he was being ushered into a rather run down building which was being used by the Basileus as some sort of Royal lodging.

As the steady cadence of his riding boots echoed through the hall his apprehension levels rose, was it relief or frustration? Either feeling was better than the years of the waiting, negotiation and discussion that had taken place prior to the meeting he had now finally secured. Certainly his handling of state affairs in Constantinople had gone well enough. The Basileus seemed to have finally used independent reports on his success as a reason to grant him this vital face to face meeting.

Calming himself using the methods taught to him by his now dead Amir, he finally nodded to the court official who had been patiently waiting before presenting him to the Basileus. With one hand on his scimitar and the other making the sign of good luck he proceeded forward into his self created “breach”.

Apionnas found himself ushered into a study off of the courtyard.

Basileus Aleksios was seated at a table reviewing reports. Harald Sigurdson, the Varangian Captain, stood impassively in the corner, a giant axe slung over his back and a hand resting on the pommel of dagger that hung from his belt.

The Emperor looked up, put down the reports and spoke, "Come in, Senator Apionnas. I apologize for the informality, but the occupation of Bucharest has taken up much of my time. Please have a seat".

Taking the offered seat Apionnas began to study the man he had come to meet.

There seemed to be no outward sign of his intent and it was impossible to determine his frame of mind from the set of his features. The man was clearly used to being observed and had certainly mastered the art of concealing his thoughts from others.

Aleksios put down the reports and looked at the young man over tented fingers.

"Your competent administration of the capital in my absence has been noticed. I appreciate it, and so you have the audience you requested. What do you wish of me?"

Taking a moment to consider his opening statement Apionnas steeled himself and began.

“As we have discussed my lord, I wish to give my service and that of my family's, to you and your family, for as long as we draw breath.

This is one of the most potent and effective terms of service I have been exposed to in my time living in the East. Only the Sultan and his family may take on these types of bonds as it creates a certain, independence, from other influence.”

Taking a moment to consider the younger man's wording the Basileus finally responded.

"You offer of service is gratifying, however, let me be blunt, you will not advance in Empire or any House unless you convert to Christianity. The Empire employs mercenaries and soldiers of many faiths, but the nobility is Christian. If you continue to openly profess the religion of your enslavers, you will remain an oddity and a subject of suspicion.

"If I did become your patron, I would no doubt have objections from the Patriarch and some of the more dogmatic members of the Senate. Whatever you would bring to the table would have to outweigh that. You have shown yourself a capable governor, but that is not enough."

Taking a moment to assess his options Apionnas decided to fall back on his instincts and training.

Move forward, press the point, see what follows. His Amir’s words once again where the guiding force.

With that decision made, his eyes narrowed as he began the most important statement of his short life.

"My Lord, whether I convert to Christianity or not, this simply does not affect my ability to serve you. If that is the primary concern then I will simply keep my religion hidden to all those who wish to pry. As far as anyone else is concerned they will be totally unable to determine my faith in either direction.

"Please note, I do not necessarily wish command at this time, although that is what I have been trained to do all my life. Having seen the troop reports from across the Empire I am fully aware of the limited resources at your disposal.

"But, what I am asking for is your patronage, in return there is this: While others have their own allegiances and therefore agenda's…I will not. I am yours to command completely outside the structure of any of the noble houses.

"I can imagine a number of instances where a 'Special Governor' might be needed for any troubled provinces. Perhaps a 'Special Commander' for any tough battles or command positions that require a 'trustworthy' noble to ensure results are to your liking.

"More over, voting rights would be at your disposal rather than independent or as part of a wider House's agenda that may not be in line with your intentions. The options are unlimited once you put your mind to it my lord. The structures I see built into the governance of your Empire seem wholly decentralised. This is something that can be influenced by just such an arrangement.

"My lord, I do not suggest an open form of oath giving unless you wish it, more appropriate would be a private oath given to you and your family. In my culture this type of service is bound until one of the families cease to exist. I would serve you, your son and as many of your family as you deem necessary until I die. Once that occurs then my son would continue this service. Customarily this 'oath of service' is kept hidden from others and is entirely a private matter.

"Some Emperor's have informed their son's ahead of time, other have left the arrangement in their will, others have informed their next of kin while on their death bed. Of course the one item in my possession would be a copy of this private oath which ensures I can carry on this 'oath of service' to your son should you be unable to inform him prior to your demise.

"As you have been to me my lord, I will be as blunt and direct towards you if I may. Your nobles know nothing of the east, I do. In fact I can advise you on most matters ranging from as far west as France and as far east as you can imagine; Strategy, tactics, mentality and terrain, the list is endless. I have one advantage over any others when it comes to the east, I have been there. I have seen it and I can ensure prior knowledge of many aspects of what you and your Empire will encounter. I've spent 10 years being taught the skills of Islamic war and it is something beyond comprehension to people from the west.

"This is what I can offer my lord and for that I can ensure my faith is no issue and my uniqueness is 'your' asset."

For a moment it seemed as if he had gone too far. The intensity of his voice and the white knuckled grip on his scimitar was a testament to his feelings. The two men paused. Eye contact was only relinquished by the younger man when he glanced at the Varangian Captain who had stirred slightly at the tension growing in the room.

Aleksios sighed, "You no doubt have much to share, Apionnas. However, as much as you might wish it, The Empire does not keep politics and religion separate. Part of my role as Basileus is to be God's Vice-Regent on Earth. I can hardly have a Muslim as part of my retinue."

Apionnas responded instantly. His conviction clear in his voice, “Islam, Catholic, heathen, I see no real difference in men when it comes to religion my lord. We are all here and we are all going to die. If a man wants to choose one faith over another, then so be it.”

The Basileus grunted, half amused and half frustrated.

"Whatever your other talents Senator, you are quite stubborn."

Aleksios drummed his fingers on the table while he paused to think.

"Here is my offer: My patronage and this town, Bucharest, in exchange for your loyal service to the Komnenoi. However, you must convert. I will ask the Patriarch to have one of his senior clergymen baptise you on his behalf. You gain a patron, I gain a follower and we throw the Patriarch a bone. It will hopefully make him more tractable in the future."

The Basileus leaned forward and spoke again quietly, "That is my best offer, Apionnas Vringas, take it or leave it."

With that, Apionnas made his most significant decision of his life.

“I accept. I will convert to the Orthodox faith and renounce the religion of Islam and the teaching of the Koran.”

The Basileus smiled, "Good, I knew that you would see reason. An uncommon trait for some Senators. I will contact the Patriarch and arrange your induction into the Church. My wife and I will stand as your Godparents when you are baptised to formalise our arrangement."

The Basileus stood and offered his signet ring to Apionnas, "Please, stay and familiarise yourself with your new province, Comes."

Taking a knee Apionnas spoke his first and only oath.

“I, Apionnas Vringas, Strator of Byzantium, herby pledge my eternal service and that of my family to the House of Komnenos and all its members so long as breath is drawn from our bodies. We renounce the teachings of Islam and all holy text of the Koran and convert fully to the scriptures of the Orthodox Christian faith.”

The Basileus smiled as he looked down at Apionnas and spoke again, "Amen."

[OverKnight]

(Coop with Ignoramus)

Constantinople, 1095

Ioannis marched boldly towards his father's private chambers within the Imperial Palace. The guards respectfully retired as they saw the Caesar coming towards them.

"Greetings father! I trust your campaign did you well?" began Ioannis.

The Basileus smiled as he looked up from reading a letter. He motioned his son to a seat beside him.

"Hello Ioannis. A bit of luck in Sofia with our agent, he found some citizens who wished for the return of the Empire's rule and they opened the gates. Bucharest took a bit longer, but I was able to take that pirates' lair easily enough."

Aleksios leaned back in his chair and rubbed the bridge of his nose, "The trick will be in having the locals accept the true faith. I hope the new Church will help."

Putting aside the letter he asked his son, "And how was your campaign in Anatolia? More than one close call with the Turks it seems."

"It was," agreed Ioannis, "but thankfully we managed to outpace them. Comes Chrysovergos is hoping to return all of Pontus to your rule. The Turkish horsemen are of little use in besieging coastal cities. We can simply bring in supplies by sea."

Turning seriously to his father, Ioannis looked him squarely in the eye. "Father, we have done well so far in managing the Magnaura, but I am worried about how long we can manage to hold them in check. They're baying for war against almost anyone they can think of. One would think we were a pack of Huns under Attila."

Aleksios drummed his fingers on the table, thinking for a moment, and then spoke, "While there are a few Senators who would be more suited to a life of pillaging and rapine, I would not make the mistake of lumping the entire Senate into that category. Senator Ampelas seeks a more moderate path. Even Senator Tagaris wishes to show mercy to the cities we capture.

"For all the talk of war, the Edict authorizing may not even be seconded. Surely that is encouraging?"

Sighing, Ioannis continued, "Yes, but how long can it last? Sooner or later we will find ourselves fighting both the Catholics and the Moslems at the same time. Remember how that scoundrel Bohemond and his father threatened war against us? Thankfully, his father is dead and the son disinherited, but his ambition knows no bounds. I would not like to be facing him and the Turks at the same time.

"At the moment there is no discontent amongst the nobles, but as this past century has shown, establishing a dynasty is anything but easy."

Aleksios nodded, "Too true. War will come, one way or the other. I hope the Senate will have the wisdom to wait, so we can initiate hostilities at a time and place of our choosing when we are fully prepared.

"As for a dynasty, I'm just content that my reign has already been longer than that of any of the last eleven Emperors, including the last three added together. Think of that, my son, and weep for the Empire."

[AussieGiant]

Constantinople, 1095

Apionnas sat in the governors chambers.

Around him the staff where preparing for his imminent departure. Final word from the Basileus was all that was left. His time in the capital had certainly been beneficial as the city was a hub for much of the Empires administration. Having a clear picture of the economy and military situation was something he was going to have to work a lot harder at from the town of Bucharest.

He looked down once more at the Arabic letters in front of him and recalled the final words spoken to him before his compatriots left for Cairo.

Traitor, infidel, the list was longer and far more disparaging that he could have believed. Explaining why he had made his decision to comrades that had fought with him for a decade had fallen on deaf ears.

Moreover on their final meeting one of them had handed him a note. It was short, to the point and ominous.

The flowing words of the Arabic letters were a stark contrast to the meaning held within them.

"The Sultan has reformed the Mansuriyya slave regiment.

All survivors of the massacre at Adana shall report to Cairo in the month of June in the year 1100. If they do, not they will face eternal damnation, be branded cowards and traitors to the Sultan.

The penalty, death by dismemberment.

Grand Visier"

[Zim]

Mavrozomis estate, Athens, Late summer 1095

In a small room in the Mavrozomis estate, sparsely furnished with only a table and a pair of chairs, two men are seated one summer night, far later than one would expect to find members of the household awake. One of the men is seated in a corner of the room, his features shrouded by a heavy cloak. The only readily apparent identifying features he has are the fact that he is slightly above average height, and the bit of light colored hair peeking out from under the hood of his cloak. Well, those and a small symbol on the left breast of his cloak, obscured by the darkness and folds of fabric.

The other man is seated at the table. He is of average height, with dark hair. Despite being in his night clothes, the dark circles under his eyes suggest he has been awake to this hour rather than roused from bed for the meeting. Although likely once of medium build, the man looks thin now, as if from long illness or lack of food, his skin drawn tight over sunken cheekbones. Acquaintances of the man would recognize him as Kosmas Mavrozomis, comes of Athens, although they'd remark on his haggard appearance.

Kosmas sits hunched over the table, writing on a sheet of paper. His hand shakes as he writes, though whether from illness or fear it is hard to say. Every few sentences he looks up at the other man in the room, who nods and motions for him to continue. This goes on for a short while, until it appears he is finally finished. Kosmas signs the letter with his seal, stands and shows it to the other man, who nods and takes it from him. As the man then leaves, Kosmas lets out a sigh of relief. He sits down again at the table and falls asleep with his head resting in in arms, where his servants will find him that morning.

While it is impossible to say for sure what Kosmas wrote for his guess that night, shortly after their meeting a letter with his seal begins to circulate, it's contents causing some amount of stir among those close to House Asteri. Nonetheless, when asked Kosmas affirms it completely, and friends of his note that his health is returning, although gauntness seems to have been exchanged for a haunted look, and he can be found frequently looking over his shoulder, and jumping at sudden noises.

The contents of the letter are as follows:

I, Kosmas Mavrozomis, Comes of Athens,
find myself no longer able to lead House Asteri due to poor health and the stress inherent in the position. For the good of my House and my health, I hereby grant dominion over Athens to Ioannis Kalameteros, and allow him to voluntarily rescind his oath to me, so that he may become House leader. As I wish to remain of service to House Asteri, I swear an oath of fealty to Nevoulos ek Philadelphius.

[TinCow]

Zagreb, 1095 AD

Torchlight spilled across the rampart, marking the passage of a patrolling guard. Randolf touched his squatting companion on the knee, halting his silent count.

“The count was five hundred and forty three,” the man whispered.

Even in the deep shadows of the thick brush, Randolf’s grin was wide enough to gleam in the meager starlight. “The garrison is even smaller than we had been told.” He took a fistful of dirt and began to sprinkle it absentmindedly. “A five hundred count, I could never have imagined we would be so lucky. We could march an entire regiment up to the wall before an alarm was even sounded.”

The dark cloaked companion nodded in agreement. “So the plan will go forward then?”

Randolf turned and looked back towards the walls of Zagreb, once again dark as the guard disappeared around a bend, not to replaced by another for a very long time. The Byzantine Empire had expanded with unprecedented ferocity over the previous decade. At first, it had been a minor affair, considered by most of the Catholic nations as an internal situation. After all, settlements such as Arta, Durazzo, Scopia, and Sofia had long been part of the Byzantine Empire. Their reconquest was nothing more than the Emperor reasserting his authority over his own lands.

Yet, the conquests had not stopped there. Belgrade and Bucharest had soon fallen to their armies as well, both territories to which the Byzantines had questionable claims. True, that had been under the control of Constantinople in recent decades, but they had been ruled by the Bulgarians for nearly five hundred years before Basileus Basil II had reconquered them in 1018. Much of the populations remained Catholic and they had had no love for Greek culture or authority. As if that were not enough, the Byzantines had pressed their western ambitions even further, towards Iasa and Zagreb. Their claims to these lands were even more tenuous, and the population even less hospitable. While the former had so far eluded their grasp, Zagreb had fallen unexpectantly.

The tales of the fall of Zagreb had reached even Randolf’s modest manor in Lydham. The man responsible, Methodios Tagaris, was apparently renowned for his chivalry, yet that had not been enough to appease those he conquered. The population was discontent and rioting soon broke out. The Byzantines had prevented a full-scale revolt, but the people were greatly displeased with their new rulers and the situation was tenuous.

At the same time, this sudden expansion of Byzantine territory had alarmed many Catholic noblemen. Yet, none of the nations of Christ had been willing to confront their unbridled aggression. There had been movements for war within several nations, but they had been struck down by their various Kings in the interests of ‘peace.’ Peace indeed. This pacifism was simply allowing the Emperor to establish a foothold from which he would never be dislodged. Heretical Orthodoxy would spread across all of Europe from that bastion of power. Why, even Italy and the Holy Roman Empire were within range of armies operating out of Zagreb. Appeals had been made to the Pope to call forth a Crusade against Constantinople, but he had been unwilling to make an enemy of the Byzantines. He continued to proclaim that the Muhammadans were the foremost threat, despite their isolation in the East.

So, with no one else to call upon for aid, individual men, of common blood and noble alike, had gone eastwards to do what they could to confront this threat to Catholicism. As they met, they formed into small bands, and then into regiments, and finally into armies. Randolf of Lydham had been nominated by near unanimous consent to lead them. The disgruntled local populations had swelled their numbers as they had approached their targets. These same men provided an excellent source of intelligence, as they could come and go within the cities without suspicion.

As it turned out, the Byzantine expansion had been so sudden, that the garrisons in many settlements had yet to arrive. They were guarded by feeble forces which had barely the resources to keep order, let alone repel a full-scale attack. They were not even sufficient to scout the nearby lands for enemies, and as such the advancing armies had gone unnoticed. Such arrogance would be repaid in full.

Word had reached Randolf’s camp west of Zagreb that the Byzantine aggression in the East had spawned a similar response from the Muslim residents, particularly at Sinop. The Muhammadans and Pagans had rallied around some renegade priest who had take up the unlikely name of Spartacus, obviously in an attempt to incite a similar rebellion against the Eastern Romans as his predecessor had done against the Roman Republic. With rebellions appearing on both sides of the Empire, it was the perfect time to strike. The armies had been dispersed to launch attacks all across the western frontier, in an effort to liberate the unjustly claimed cities from the Byzantine foes. Randolf’s army at Zagreb was the strongest, but the armies sent to Belgrade and Bucharest were strong as well, more than capable of defeating the meager and neglected garrisons of those cities.

And so it was that Randolf of Lydham was to be found squatting outside the walls of Zagreb in the dark of night, counting the frequency of the garrison’s patrols. He looked at his companion and nodded. “It is time. The Byzantines will pay for their folly.”

-----------------

Note: This is an Event for the purposes of Rule 1.5. Due to the slightly shortened Megas term, it has technically only been 9 turns since the previous event. I like the idea of having them timed to correspond with the normal Senate Sessions, though, so I’m going to go ahead with this one right now. If anyone has a problem with it occurring 1 turn early, let me know and I will delay it one turn.

This Event will result in the creation of large Rebel armies which will be placed outside of Zagreb, Belgrade, Bucharest, Sinop, and possibly a couple more cities. The army outside Zagreb will be led by the rebel general Randolf of Lydham (a chivalrous fellow in southern italy) and the heretic priest Spartacus (in Arabia I think) will be placed near the army at Sinop. I will then attempt to take control of the rebel faction through console commands and move the armies myself to attack the Byzantines. Any avatar inside a threatened city will have one turn to flee before the city is besieged. Anyone who remains inside a besieged city will be at serious risk of death. If this turns out not to be possible (I’ve only ever tried with normal factions, not the rebels), I will instead let the rebel armies sit where they are and instead take control of the taxation of the cities. They will be increased until the population is rioting and I will remain in full control of the taxation until the rebel armies in each of these provinces are defeated. At that time the taxation will revert to the control of the province owners.

Please be aware that I have not yet made the proper changes to the save game, so it is not currently available. It will be done and made available this evening for you to look at. Remember, Events can be blocked by a simple majority vote, if that is desired.

[Ramses II CP]

It was the dream again. Vissarionas ek Lesvou was back on the fields southwest of Antioch. His guardsmen, slowed by long years of bloodless, boring siege and the endless grind of training in the field, had taken far too long to mount up on the Grandmaster's command and now the ill equipped militia from Antioch had managed to melt away into the countryside. Dozens of nearly unrecognizable men flooding out of the gates, perhaps just fleeing the conditions within, but perhaps seeking reinforcements from the hard used villages surrounding the city. A decade of foraging had not been kind to the peasants of the Levant, and while few of them would find the courage to bear arms against the Order of St. John, fewer still would aid or love the Orthodox soldiers.

With the host assembled at last the sergeants of the Order turned as one and rode along the walls of the city. None of them thought to check the gates or look back to see how the general advance was proceeding, their eyes and will were bent with utter absorption to the first truly exciting task they'd had since the siege began; hunting down the deserters from the garrison.

Hours later, having split to search, rejoined to plan, split again to question villagers, and finally come back together wholesale the mounted men had rounded up about sixty sickly looking prisoners. The slow march back to camp was not met by any messengers, and so the sight of the nearly empty camp with only the Grandmaster's tent abuzz with activity was a shock. Where were the common troops? Where were the captains?

In his tent Makedonios was clearly recovering from his wound, if slowly due to his illness, but he could not yet speak to relate what the situation was within the walls. Vissarionas' siege slowed mind was still trying to come to terms with the whole sequence when Rafi, now Vissa's page, ran up and pointed to a thin stream of smoke rising above the city,

'There must be fighting in the city! The men need you!'

Vissa nodded, 'Ride with me Rafi, but keep your wits and ride clear of any engagements; you're not equipped for street fighting!'

Weary to the bone from the long chase into the countryside, and uncertain of the situation within Antioch, Vissarionas ek Lesvou and the sergeants of the Order nonetheless found the strength to drive their mounts to a gallop and reached the open gates of Antioch in some haste. Within the walls the situation was difficult to grasp. All along the main thoroughfare shattered doors littered the streets, partially covering a few splashes of deep red blood. The sergeants split up, some making east and west along the inner wall to secure the city gates and seek fighting, while others attempted to find any Greek speaking citizen who might tell the tale. Vissarionas' stomach had begun to twist as his suspicions grew. Calling to his guards to ride hard he bore down at the forefront and, with Rafi at his side, made for the square.

As he neared the large open space of the square he began to pass groups of women, many of them weeping and wailing as though they'd seen the end times come. Some carrying small children with the shellshocked look of the half dead. No few of the kids had hands streaked with red, and most of the women's skirt hems were darkened by drying blood.

At the wide end of the street a crowd of older women and teenage boys remained to block the view. Hearing horses at a full gallop, and seeing the tabards of the Order on the riders, they scattered with terrified looks at the soldiers. A few of the boys carried rocks, but the sight of the heavily armoured horsemen ensured most of the rocks returned to the street. At last the path to the square cleared, and Vissa could see...

...and smell...

...and even taste...

...death. Hanging thick in the air, like a blanket of flies and filth over the very surface of the earth. The unholy, unimaginable stench of it, fit to warp even the most pure intent. A towering rage overtook Vissarionas as he cast about for what enemy could be so vile as to have committed this black act, what ungodly race of demons brought forth this slaughter! Nearly all the remaining peasants now scurried away under that gaze, and even the boldest slunk into the shadows of nearby buildings.

...but surrounding the piled dead were no enemies, no imagined Muslim blackguards, towering ten feet tall and leering like beasts. No, around the square, many still carrying weapons running red with the blood of innocents, were the soldiers of the Order of St. John. White and purple tabards stained nearly black with blood. Gore covered boots tramped from structure to structure on every side of the square.

Rage fled from Vissa as quickly as it had come, and reluctantly, painfully he forced his eyes back to the mounds of dead. Most were yet intact, not hacked apart in cruelty, simply killed. They wore no armor. They were ill fed, and badly clothed. Here and there a body might carry some mark of service in the city militia, but most were simple peasants.

Not one bore a weapon.

His mouth twisted as though a dung beetle were rolling it's precious cargo within his cheeks. A thin, dry croak was the first sound to emerge from Vissa, but then he took hold of himself and managed to bark out,

'Back. Ride back now Rafi. Carry my sword back to my tent now Rafi. Go on boy, ride! Do not return. I will come for you.'

Perhaps it was foolish to go among the recently conquered people of Antioch armed only with a dagger, but suddenly Vissarionas couldn't bear the sight of his blade, with it's mark of noble St. John on the hilts. Touching briefly on the thought of drawing it from it's scabbard, even in self defense, nearly unhinged his sanity, and he turned his mind away, towards other things. Rising in the distance across the square, perhaps two hundred yards from where he now sat, was the ornate facade of Antioch's main Orthodox church. Waving a command at his guardsmen to remain where they were Vissa strode as fast as he could manage to the stone steps of the minor cathedral, intent on seeking guidance in prayer.

Nearly running up the few steps Vissarionas was about to step into the building when he realized that his last footfall had squelched.

An audible groan escaped him. His gaze tracked gradually downward, from the beautiful, sacred doors of the church to the simple stone steps and at last to his own blood drenched boots. Further back, pulling his body all the way around, he saw a bloody print on each step he'd taken ascending towards the holy structure. Beyond that his eyes moved on away from the holy place, and following his path across the slaughterhouse of the square left him now with his back turned firmly on the church at his gaze locked on the piled corpses the victims of the siege of Antioch.

There the dream ended.

The parallel was obvious. If he entered that church to seek guidance regarding his part in the hideous acts of the day, would he not be commiting a sacrilege and implicating the Orthodox church in these sins? If the Order claimed to obey God's will then what part of the capture of Antioch was in accordance with it?

Vissa had puzzled over and fought with these issues for months, and finally for years. Rafi had felt him withdraw, and at a time when the young man needed guidance the most, but had stood with him. He had gone about his daily duties as if in a dream, spending as little time in Antioch as possible. With the Senate now in session Vissa had found himself unable to participate, no longer certain enough of who he was or what sort of House he had joined to espouse an opinion. Now, however, the vote had been called. Duty required that he fulfill his obligation, both as a senator and as a member of the Order. Duty could not be denied, not even for a man who believed himself to be bereft of honor and perhaps even undeserving of his place in life.

Duty called, but also... penance. He must inform his brothers and then seek the Patriarch.

As he turned to go Vissarionas recalled something one of the more erudite brothers had read to him from a book in the Order's library. (From the Wheel of Time books): Death is lighter than a feather, duty is heavier than a mountain.