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Some interim general comment feedback, leaving the specific answers to questions to the next Thing.
It didn't take long for him to start feeling like a proper ruler I note :D
:D Like father like son
Yeah, that’s where he’s got it from! ;)
Advice: Turn off auto end plots and watch for righteous imprisonment opportunities. A small failed imprisonment revolt is easier to handle than a large faction revolt. Send Helgi to visit the hardliners and find their secrets. If one kills Helgi, shed a few tears and send the widow a fruit basket. Scum in the oubliette can not join factions but can be claimants. Revolters make wonderful honored guests at the next blot.
I always leave it off, and rely on alerts and periodic checks to assess plots. Some I could turn off I just leave on. Good idea re Helgi: if (narratively) his murder of the Emperor’s sister is ever discovered, that might be a fitting punishment!
Good call, and his stats doesn't seem as good as I remember him to be, I assumed he was much better. For him, it's not worth.
It was worth checking. Will see if he lives to the next blot.
Some Jarl in the north can do it for us anyway
Hope so - they’ve been very active of late.
Just before my laptop gave up his ghost, I had a newfound love for assassinating powerful vassals who are in independence factions. Might be useful.
Will consider it if worth it or it becomes urgent. I’d prefer to wind them down peacefully at this stage,though. More money may help with that.
My eyes rather shine at the 4400 Heavy Infantry!
Same here!
A very nice episode and I'm already warming up to the new Emperor! Let's see what the future holds for him. To repeat myself, try assassinating the troublesome Jarl (I forgot his name). My experience says when somebody is that powerful, for sure he stepped on the toes of some people who will be eager to join in the plot.
Good thinking. If he looks incorrigible, I’ll investigate the possibility.
My first two guesses on the missing steward are he became incapable or he inherited land.
Good theories. I’ll check next time to see if I can find out.
The larger an empire, the more civil wars you can have because the factions tend to get bigger/stronger and more varied. So russia does need to watch out for them.
Even more so in an early reign.
 
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Oh and by the way, remember money is cheap in ckii. So if you are delaying feudalism just for an upgrade, don't. It's cheaper to do it afterwards.
 
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Sad to see that Kharijite Italy ended. It never had a chance, but was nice while it lasted.

In other news, Styrbjörn's reign is off to a good start. The usual factions form, but that's not much of a problem. Raiding fills the treasury, the vassals expand, feudalism draws closer. Things are looking good.

Then again, it would do him some good to pay more attention. His steward vanishing, he himself being cucked, a likely hel-worshipper (Rikulfr) positioning himself as one of his strongest vassals... Styrbjörn should keep his eyes open. Especially with Helgi being his spymaster ;).

Ch113 Q1: Competing Factions. Two factions at once – what a political harlot! Out of interest, does that mean if (assuming it’s possible) both factions were in rebellion at the same time, he would be in both? Or just the one that fired first? Would they be hostile to each other? Or can only one such revolt occur at any one time?
The first one firing would be the one he'd support. After all, once he has committed his troops to open rebellion in the name of one claimant, he can't do so in the name of someone else again - as he'd be in open revolt.

Ch113 Q2: Infidelity. Though in this case, Svörker was not known (to the Emperor’s spies, anyway) to be Ulfhildr’s lover. Might she have been falsely accused by an event? Could she have been unfairly branded?
Nope. You can trust that information. Ulfhildr is precious to Styrbjörn, but even still, some days in the dungeon (instead of chopping her head off) might do her some good. And after retribution against Vladimir is found, Sörkver makes a nice target - that is, if Helgi's involvement isn't known before there.

Ch113 Q3: Weaponsmith IV Upgrade. Well, 600 prestige is a lot, but 1,332 days!? Even with a Steward assisting, that’s going to take more than two years to finish. Any views on whether it’s better on balance to just go for feudalisation and ‘waste’ a level on conversion, or make the effort to get that last upgrade done, perhaps also accruing more money and a eking out a longer reign before taking on the big government change?
It may not be worth it. After all, Russia can raid, so there shouldn't be any lack of money to build the buildings even after feudalizing. And by keeping a sizeable raiding levy around after feudalizing, one can pass the precarious situation in-between easier. Especially as your Germanic vassals with Germanic capitals will also feudalize and thus be weaker (save for Bertil - but he's otherwise occupied).


In other general advice, Germanic is by default an aggressive religion, which is also why your vassals behave that way. As there's been no HF-reformation, it stays aggressive and its adherents can always raid to their hearts' content.

Also, now that the Jomsvikings have formed, you may decide if you want to vassalize them. A Norse Emperor should be able to. Immediate benefit would be to be able to hire them for a pittance, them behaving like any other vassal concerning their castles and only the Fylkir being able to hire them.
Immediate negative consequences would be them behaving like any other vassal concerning their castles and only the Fylkir being able to hire them.
It's a double-edged sword, really. By not vassalizing them you mostly help other Germanic realms who may call upon their help in times of need, otherwise the Fylkir mostly helps himself.
 
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The Second Þing of Styrbjörn’s Reign – October 936
The Second Þing of Styrbjörn’s Reign – October 936

As mentioned before, with CK3 out now, I’m not sure of the lasting relevance of a primarily learning theme for this story. So I will endeavour to hurry the story a long a bit, not abandoning the question format and still welcoming advice, but perhaps going a little bit broader sweep history book to get this thing done.

Below are responses to comments I hadn’t already done, plus the question-related stuff.

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

General
Sad to see that Kharijite Italy ended. It never had a chance, but was nice while it lasted.
They lasted quite a while, but trying to hold it in the heart of Christendom and the Papacy was always going to end in tears.
In other news, Styrbjörn's reign is off to a good start. The usual factions form, but that's not much of a problem. Raiding fills the treasury, the vassals expand, feudalism draws closer. Things are looking good.
Fingers crossed!
Then again, it would do him some good to pay more attention. His steward vanishing, he himself being cucked, a likely hel-worshipper (Rikulfr) positioning himself as one of his strongest vassals... Styrbjörn should keep his eyes open. Especially with Helgi being his spymaster.
Wise advice. And hoping it open eyes don’t get an arrow between them.
In other general advice, Germanic is by default an aggressive religion, which is also why your vassals behave that way. As there's been no HF-reformation, it stays aggressive and its adherents can always raid to their hearts' content.
Fair enough. They do seem to raid a lot (I don’t include the many reports of their successful expeditions) and of course attempt plenty of conquests too.
Also, now that the Jomsvikings have formed, you may decide if you want to vassalize them. A Norse Emperor should be able to. Immediate benefit would be to be able to hire them for a pittance, them behaving like any other vassal concerning their castles and only the Fylkir being able to hire them.

Immediate negative consequences would be them behaving like any other vassal concerning their castles and only the Fylkir being able to hire them.

It's a double-edged sword, really. By not vassalizing them you mostly help other Germanic realms who may call upon their help in times of need, otherwise the Fylkir mostly helps himself.
Interesting. I’ll try to think of it when I’m playing and the time is right. But I’m also happy to have them support vassals and even other Germanic kings against those rapacious and encroaching Christians.

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

Ch113 Q1: Competing Factions. Two factions at once – what a political harlot! Out of interest, does that mean if (assuming it’s possible) both factions were in rebellion at the same time, he would be in both? Or just the one that fired first? Would they be hostile to each other? Or can only one such revolt occur at any one time?
Q1: Factions are more evil than gavelkind. Multiple factions can fire against you. He would only rebel in the first that fires. At that point, he is no longer a member of your realm and thus can not be in a faction against you. They are probably hostile to each other because one succeeding can end the other revolts. Advice: Turn off auto end plots and watch for righteous imprisonment opportunities. A small failed imprisonment revolt is easier to handle than a large faction revolt. Send Helgi to visit the hardliners and find their secrets. If one kills Helgi, shed a few tears and send the widow a fruit basket. Scum in the oubliette can not join factions but can be claimants. Revolters make wonderful honored guests at the next blot.
OK, I was hoping that was the way it worked. I was expecting all this in the early reign with such a now sprawling and aggressive empire.

I never have auto end for plots on – I often let some of them run if they’re trying to kill or usurp someone I don’t like. Will bear the failed imprisonment police action in mind. I’ve had a few go quite well for internal house-keeping so far.
1) As mentioned, if one faction starts a war all its members are no longer in your realm and are dropped from other factions. This tends to weaken them enough that only one fires at a time. But that's just a tendency. In a Byzantium game I once had three faction-based civil wars happening at once.
Eek – three at once! From what I’ve read in other AARs, Byzantium does seem very prone to revolts.
The larger an empire, the more civil wars you can have because the factions tend to get bigger/stronger and more varied. So russia does need to watch out for them.
Yes, I’d like Styrbjörn to be able to get some new demesne counties to make up for the ones lost when Eilif died, plus shore up the opinion of enough of the more powerful vassals to have support from if things turn to shite.
The first one firing would be the one he'd support. After all, once he has committed his troops to open rebellion in the name of one claimant, he can't do so in the name of someone else again - as he'd be in open revolt.
A relief.

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

Ch113 Q2: Infidelity. Though in this case, Svörker was not known (to the Emperor’s spies, anyway) to be Ulfhildr’s lover. Might she have been falsely accused by an event? Could she have been unfairly branded?

Q2: Possible. Ck2 lies. Check birthdates of her children. One wrong, send her to a regular jail cell. Half, of her wonderful stats, still help even if she is in jail. You have enough heirs and servants can heat rocks to keep your feet warm.
:D
2) I'm not aware of any events that cause a false accusation. They might exist, I'm just not aware of any.
I’ll assume the worst – probably the safest assumption where CK2 is concerned!
Nope. You can trust that information. Ulfhildr is precious to Styrbjörn, but even still, some days in the dungeon (instead of chopping her head off) might do her some good. And after retribution against Vladimir is found, Sörkver makes a nice target - that is, if Helgi's involvement isn't known before there.
My aim would be to find some way to gift Sörkver the castrated trait! :mad:

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

Ch113 Q3: Weaponsmith IV Upgrade. Well, 600 prestige is a lot, but 1,332 days!? Even with a Steward assisting, that’s going to take more than two years to finish. Any views on whether it’s better on balance to just go for feudalisation and ‘waste’ a level on conversion, or make the effort to get that last upgrade done, perhaps also accruing more money and a eking out a longer reign before taking on the big government change?
Q3: Never played tribal. But my instinct is wait to make yourself as strong as possible before toggling the button or Loki may laugh at you.
Hmm, that’s what’s had me hesitate so far … though we’re getting close now to making the switch.
I think I'd wait but that's more like a gut decision than a calculated move
Well, that’s the way I play it anyway! ;)
3) No opinion.
Fair enough
Oh and by the way, remember money is cheap in ckii. So if you are delaying feudalism just for an upgrade, don't. It's cheaper to do it afterwards.
OK – in this (my only) game to date money has usually been tight, but I’m hoping going feudal should eventually boost basic tax income, while raiding remains a good source of supplementary income.
It may not be worth it. After all, Russia can raid, so there shouldn't be any lack of money to build the buildings even after feudalizing. And by keeping a sizeable raiding levy around after feudalizing, one can pass the precarious situation in-between easier. Especially as your Germanic vassals with Germanic capitals will also feudalize and thus be weaker (save for Bertil - but he's otherwise occupied).
Sound advice, as always. I’ll try to remember and then follow it!

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

Thanks once more for all your comments and advice. I do hope my Dear Readers will stay around for the rest of the ride with CK3 just starting to spread its wings. As promised, I’ll do my best to keep things moving along and see if I can go for the broader sweep now the Empire has been achieved (which was probably beyond my ambitions when I started this novice play-through).

Now, off to play the next session.
 
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As mentioned before, with CK3 out now, I’m not sure of the lasting relevance of a primarily learning theme for this story.

People will still want to learn how to play ckii.

– in this (my only) game to date money has usually been tight, but I’m hoping going feudal should eventually boost basic tax income, while raiding remains a good source of supplementary income.

Money is cheap in every gov mode other than tribalism to encourage raiding and conversion. In an empire that big, as soon as you get your tax base sorted (the vassals like you and you have good tax laws), money piles up. Faster if you ignore all that and just take the income of your empire and spend it on economic buildings in your personal domain. Your own set of duchies can outperform entire empires if you upgrade them and have enough build slots.
 
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People will still want to learn how to play ckii.
For a few years yet - especially given how certain design decisions are implemented in CK3 right now. I must admit, personally, it is giving me quite the hankering to play CK2. :)

Though I also want to return to EU4

As ever not enough time. I need to win the lottery so I can retire like @Bullfilter and devote my life to AARs :D
 
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As mentioned before, with CK3 out now, I’m not sure of the lasting relevance of a primarily learning theme for this story
says the guy who has 2 active HoI3 AARs and developing a mod for it :D
 
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oK, next session played, screenshots edited, now ro write up. Without spoiling ...
People will still want to learn how to play ckii.

Money is cheap in every gov mode other than tribalism to encourage raiding and conversion. In an empire that big, as soon as you get your tax base sorted (the vassals like you and you have good tax laws), money piles up. Faster if you ignore all that and just take the income of your empire and spend it on economic buildings in your personal domain. Your own set of duchies can outperform entire empires if you upgrade them and have enough build slots.
I guess I’ll keep going with the format anyway. My expectation for feudalism is a big initial drop off in troops, gradually building tax base and susceptibility to disease! Other than that, I’ll be interested to see how it goes, esp with the vassals (specifically the currently tribal ones, and how quickly they may change as well).
For a few years yet - especially given how certain design decisions are implemented in CK3 right now. I must admit, personally, it is giving me quite the hankering to play CK2. :)

Though I also want to return to EU4

As ever not enough time. I need to win the lottery so I can retire like @Bullfilter and devote my life to AARs :D
Oh, for the old lottery win. It took me 40 years at the grindstone to get my retirement: think of all the extra AARs I could have written ... :D :rolleyes:
says the guy who has 2 active HoI3 AARs and developing a mod for it :D
Ya got me there. o_O
 
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Chapter 114: Heroes and Villeins (19 October 936 to 21 March 938)
Chapter 114: Heroes and Villeins (19 October 936 to 21 March 938)

AuthAAR’s Note: A slightly shorter chapter than usual, for reasons that will become obvious.

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

Previously, on Blut und Schlacht the new Emperor and Fylkir Styrbjörn had begun to settle into his role, though factionalism was on the rise during the early part of his reign; his two younger brothers had, sure enough, begun to harbour their own imperial ambitions, though at this stage it was kept to behind the scenes ‘what ifs’ rather than any open breaks. Styrbjörn was looking to take the Russian Empire down the modernising path of feudalism as soon as he could manage it – but first, he had a raid in Hispania to complete, to boost his prestige and the treasury for the turbulent times he suspected lay ahead. The fabled Jomsvikings had finally put in an appearance and the Germanic Faith continued to spread far and wide throughout the Empire.

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

October-December 936

The raid in Asturias was proving a long haul, with strong fortifications and no siege specialist to assist this time.

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Raid progress in Asturias as at the end of the last chapter.

As the raid wore on, factionalism grew back in the Motherland, with Jarl Sumarliði joining the push for independence. All were a mild concern, but none seemed too much of a serious threat as yet.

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With cavalry now deployed in the Royal Guard (retinue) and an eye on the future, Styrbjörn decided to improve the cavalry arm after all in early December.

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ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

January-June 937

By early January, the war being prosecuted by High Chieftess Bodil of Lithuania and Jarl Helgi of Belo Ozero was not going too well. The Poles had over 6,300 men beginning to take Bodil’s western counties, while the allies mustered around 4,500 men in three smaller forces at different points in Polish territory.

The improved practice range in Torzhok [to Level II] was completed on 16 January. With a decision having been taken not to proceed with the costly and time-consuming expansion of the weaponsmith in Holmgarðr [to Level IV], this was the last provincial building project planned before the Fylkir aimed to make Russia a feudal realm. But the raid in Hispania still needed to be finished off.

On the domestic front, Styrbjörn’s marriage difficulties and distrust of his wife Ulfhildr did not prevent the performance of matrimonial duties. Another daughter was born on 28 January 937: and there were no malicious rumours (or adultery scandals) to cast doubts on the true identity of her father.

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But Styrbjörn still maintained ill-will towards his wife and, seeking solace (and continuing the grand tradition of Rurikid rulers) desired a concubine to add to his household. But a search of first the realm and then the rest of the world – among all available cultures and religions within diplomatic range and that permitted the taking of concubines – not one stood out as having compelling - or even quite good - traits or abilities. Instead, gold was spent to hold a débutantes’ ball in March, ‘Western Style’, and the Fylkir chose young Beata af Vitebsk to help warm his bed.

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Another ball held shortly after did not produce such a promising result, so Styrbjörn left it at that for now.

As one door opened, another closed. In early April, one of Fylkir Eilif’s concubines – old Holmfrid, a Christian ex-prisoner who had never converted – died a peaceful death. She was the mother of two of Styrbjörn’s half-siblings.

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Things remained fairly quiet until early June, the long siege in Asturias dragging out, when news of another death in the realm came. This time, it was no great loss: the troublesome Jarl Eilif of Smáland had died of the great pox. Very fitting, Styrbjörn thought to himself. His replacement at least was more amenable. And he had a shieldmaiden for his wife and Marshal! Styrbjörn was a touch envious of Barid for that.

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With Jarl Eilif gone, his strength and leadership was removed from Tolir’s faction. All pretence was abandoned now, with Tolir assuming leadership of his own faction.

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Oviedo finally fell to the Russian raiders on 21 June, during which 341 men had been lost, with almost 47 gold taken. The siege work moved onto the city of Giljón, which was likely to take 3-4 months. Asturias had about 2,000 men in the field compared to around 3,000 Russians and had shown no willingness to attack all this year.

The end of June saw two vassals at war with each other: Jarl Bragi ‘the Oppressor’ of Sviþjod now sought to take the Swedish county of Medelpad from the even more vexing but far weaker Jarl Rikulfr II ‘Ironside’ of Austergautland. Styrbjörn was quite happy to see these two fighting among themselves, rather than (for example) against him.

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

July-December 937

“Ah, Styrbjörn, I have some, er, news for you” said the Fylkir’s ‘cousin’ and Spymaster, Jarl Helgi, in private, one balmy summer day in July. He squirmed a bit – for what became an obvious reason soon after.
“Yes, Helgi? Out with it, man.”
“There is another new faction in the realm. Surely, as Emperor, you can afford to hand out the subordinate kingdoms to other trusted family members, eh? I thought you might consider granting me the Kingdom of Garðariki.”
“What!? May Loki sever your bracmard and feed it to the swine, you elbow-shaking rantallion! Do you take me for a jobbernowl? Who is the leader of this faction and what is its membership?

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“Er, just me so far. So I’ll take that as a ‘no’, then?”
“Indeed. Now get out, lest I administer a stern kick to your tallywags. Varlet!”

Helgi thought he heard Styrbjörn mumble ‘zounderkite’ as he slunk from the room, but couldn’t be sure. Muckspout, he muttered himself – but carefully, under his breath.

The political news improved a little late in August, with Chancellor Grimr’s mission to Uppland paying useful dividends. Jarl Bragi, one of the most powerful and aggressive lords in the Empire – was now feeling more positive towards his Emperor. Grimr stayed where he was for now.

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On the home front, the birth of his daughter seemed to have slightly softened Styrbjörn’s attitude to his unfaithful wife. He despised her slightly less.

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“I’m in love with an unfaithful harlot!” It would make a great chorus line for a mournful, self-pitying old style country & western ballad, I reckon!

Gijón was ransacked in early October. And more loot was not the only benefit: the raiding done in Styrbjörn’s name had brought him the reputation as a true Viking ruler. This would be particularly useful in bringing his fractious Norse vassals further into his orbit.

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There was now over 172 gold in the treasure fleet off Asturias, as the siege moved onto the cathedral at Cangas de Onís, which should take around 2-3 months.

Grimr met with yet more success in Uppland in October, with the recent persuasion and Styrbjörn’s Viking reputation now making Bragi one of his more loyal vassals! The Chancellor was instructed to move onto Narva, where the Fylkir’s brother Tolir was now one of only two vassals (along with Jarl Bertil in Flanders) with a negative opinion of the Emperor.

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In early November, recent developments brought a clear improvement in the factional picture. Bragi disbanded his play for Sviþjod, while Helgi’s short-lived and ill-considered bid for the crown of Garðariki was also quietly ended. Loki would not be coming for his bracmard yet.

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Though if the Fylkir ever found out about the true backer of the plot that had murdered his sister during his father's reign, his fate would be even worse. For now, the increased personal risk Helgi himself faced as Spymaster was perhaps some compensation in the greater scheme of things. If it led to his own demise, then that would be poetic justice.

In late November, another 350-odd troops were lost in the latest raid siege in Asturias, bringing Russian numbers down to around 2,650 men. This current siege would be seen through, but then it would be time to head home. It was proving costly in collateral troop losses.

As another winter had set in, Styrbjörn was faced with a choice of staying inside for a read or going out for a bit of falconry. One look outside had him sitting in front of a nice fire and picking a random book of poetry out of the palace library. Whether it would be any good was another matter …

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… but after a couple of weeks working his way through it, the Fylkir was inspired and energised!

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

January-March 938

On 25 January, the religious compound of Cangas de Onís was sacked – and it was time for the raiders to head back to Flanders to deliver their accumulated loot; they started loading themselves – now about 2,700 in number - onto the boats. They put into port at Zeeland on 19 March: the haul had not filled the boats to capacity, but the boost was nonetheless welcome.

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And news of their safe return was enough for Styrbjörn to make a momentous announcement. The Russian Empire would immediately begin a transition to feudalism, starting with the ‘core jarldom’ of Holmgarðr. Bertil in Flanders would be pleased with this, at least. How the other tribal leaders would react, and how long it might take them to follow the Fylkir’s lead, was of course another matter.

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This brought immediate and welcome expansion in Styrbjörn’s demesne counties (Holmgarðr already had a temple at Tikhvin, of course). And a nice new crown for the Emperor.
This came as a pleasant surprise, as (deliberately not ‘reading ahead’ in the wikis) I hadn’t realise these would be freebies rather than potential slots for which holdings would need to be purchased. Now I will need to find suitable recipients for the seven new titles, as Styrbjörn can’t hold them himself without penalty.
The entire Council had been summoned back for a special session (those on missions taking a short [notional] break from their work to participate).

A review was done by Steward Åke of each of these counties, with a view to seeing which improvements should be pursued first, and where. He advocated looking to build town markets up in the new cities, as Russia was still a poor land and money would now be the driver of its improvement and expansion. But Marshal Sverker naturally favoured more military infrastructure, given the sudden reduction to troop availability the new feudal arrangements had caused (more detail on that later). There was 713 gold in the Imperial Treasury at that point.

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“Put it all to the Þing would you, Bragi?” As Lawspeaker, Bragi was now the official chair of the traditional gathering of the wise.
Ch114 Q1: New Building Projects. Thoughts about types of buildings and locations – say, stick to Holmgarðr first, or go for a certain type of building across all four counties, etc – very welcome. My first thought is to go for money-makers, not start any wars and hope for continued peace, but maybe that should be balanced?
“Grimr, how do I now stand politically with the principal vassals of the realm?”
“Quite well, My Emperor,” replied the ever-mercurial – and rather strange but effective – Chancellor. “The top sixteen lords of the realm, ranked by power, are almost all on your side. Only Bertil and Tolir now remain somewhat opposed, but not by much. Bertil was pleased with the change to the new system of government – it is only his desire for a position in the Council that keeps him estranged.”

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Of note, Grimr himself is the most loyal of these lords – followed by the thrice-persuaded bragi. For as long as that lasts, anyway. I won’t be spending money on bribes for a while if I can help it, as I want to invest as must as I can in building things up – and maybe having a reserve aside in case a mercenary hire is needed. Might need to think about raiding again, too.

“I have also appended some guidance on what is broadly acceptable policy under this new feudal regime.”
“Thank you, Grimr. Anything else?”
“Just this handsome manuscript of your Imperial family tree the scribes have composed in honour of this occasion. I think it is remarkable how much just three generations of Rurikid rulers have achieved, taking the realm from a backward tribal petty kingdom to a great feudal Empire with a reformed Germanic faith!”

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Of course, Styrbjörn himself is the son of a concubine, now with two sons and two daughters of his own.

“Thank you again, Grimr. As to Jarl Bertil, much as I would like to be able to accommodate him as an advisor for political purposes, I wish to reassure both you Bragi, and Tryggve too, that your positions remain secure. Both of you are among the most powerful lords of the realm and, along with Helgi, remain welcomed here on the Council. With both Bertil and Tolir, we will have to rely on other ways to win them over for the foreseeable future.”

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“My thanks, Fylkir Styrbjörn,” replied Bragi, with a degree of relief. “As Lawspeaker, I point out that under this new feudal system, the Council itself is bound by a different range of laws, set down in that paper I just handed you. None of these can be changed at the moment.” Which was fine with the Council, given they retained strong powers across the board.
Styrbjörn merely humphed non-committally and moved on. “Bragi, what are the other legal options. Is primogeniture inheritance for the Empire possible?”
“Not at this point, My Emperor. You must reign for ten years, have no count or higher vassal with negative opinion and have implanted late feudal administration laws.”

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“Very well. What would the latter take to to be made possible?”
“Further research into the principles of legalism would be required, My Emperor. At this stage, no legal changes to the realm’s civic and religious laws are possible.”

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Ch114 Q2: Imperial Laws. I know I’ve asked it before, but just confirming: the ‘no count or higher tier vassal of this title’ stipulation related to direct vassals of the Emperor in this case, not to indirect subordinates? Any other broad advice on what I should be aiming for would be welcome.
“Helgi,” said the Fylkir, turning towards his Spymaster. “Tell me of that old arsehole Frirek of Khopyor – what is he up to?”
“He remains an avowed rival of yours, My Liege, but appears not to be actively plotting anything. At his advanced age, his fate can perhaps be left to nature’s hands and the Gods’ will.”

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“Helgi, turning to military matters, how goes the Bodil’s war for Zemgale against Poland that you are helping her with?”
“Not well, I fear. I’m afraid the cause is lost – King Witosz has simply been able to muster too many men for us. He now occupies most of Bodil’s lands. After almost two years of trying, I think it will end in disappointment.”

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“A pity, Helgi.” Styrbjörn then turned to his Marshal. “Sverker, after the recent losses in war and raiding, then this change to feudalism, how stands our military strength?”
“Much reduced, My Fylkir. The expanded Royal Guard is now at full strength and there is room perhaps for another company to be added, if the funds can be found. Also, the Novgorodian Band has largely rebuilt its numbers to over 1,500 men. They are on contract with the Umayyad revolt, not far from where they were recently raiding. And of course, the powerful Jomsvikingr army is available as well, for the right kind of war.”

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“Sverker, let us seek guidance from the Þing as to whether we should look at expanding the Guard, building more military facilities in the home counties and so on. Also whether we should continue raiding, or give it a break to replenish numbers, and anything else they care to advise on.”
Ch114 Q3: Military Development. Any guidance on the best general course through these early years of feudalism would be excellent. At present, I’ve got fingers crossed there will be no large military campaign to fight soon, internal or external, especially against tribal foes who can call up those large prestige and piety armies.

“Finally,” remarked the Fylkir as he looked to wind up proceedings. “Please advise me on where we stand in comparison to the rest of the known world after our change of government today.”

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In terms of size, the Russian Empire was now ranked as the fifth largest in the world. But in terms of soldiers currently available to the Emperor, Russia had sunk down to number 25 in the ‘world rankings’. This illustrated how much now needed to be done to rebuild military strength and bring the levies of the vassals into the equation under the feudal system.

But Seer Kolbjörn could report that Germanicism remained strong, currently the sixth largest faith in the world. It’s authority was reasonable, but could still do with being higher. Two more counties within the Empire had converted in the last year and a half.

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But the spread of Norse culture remained stubbornly slow. Its heartland remained in the Viking lands of Norway, Sweden and Denmark. There was now a small but solid enclave in the Russian home counties, with small patches spread in Britannia and Flanders.

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Questions

Not surprisingly, the formal questions this time are all about managing the transition into feudalism. As always, more general comments and advice are warmly welcomed.

Ch114 Q1: New Building Projects. Thoughts about types of buildings and locations – say, stick to Holmgarðr first, or go for a certain type of building across all four counties, etc – very welcome. My first thought is to go for money-makers, not start any wars and hope for continued peace, but maybe that should be balanced?

Ch114 Q2: Imperial Laws. I know I’ve asked it before, but just confirming: the ‘no count or higher tier vassal of this title’ stipulation related to direct vassals of the Emperor in this case, not to indirect subordinates? Any other broad advice on what I should be aiming for would be welcome.

Ch114 Q3: Military Development. Any guidance on the best general course through these early years of feudalism would be excellent. At present, I’ve got fingers crossed there will be no large military campaign to fight soon, internal or external, especially against tribal foes who can call up those large prestige and piety armies.

ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ

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A medieval depiction of a knight being invested under feudal law and practice. The shift away from tribalism had begun in the heart of the Russian Empire. It was now Fylkir Styrbjörn’s mission to steer his realm through this time of challenge and change.
 
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My first thought is that the Russian shield reminds me of Heckle and Jeckle. What bird are they supposed to be?
You may not be far from the truth - it's a bit small, but I suspect it is meant to be the famed double-headed eagle! :D
 
So the new holdings will, once given away, start to upgrade themselves in time. Myself though, if I have the cash, I usually build the town for them to prime the pump, as it were, and ensure they have a little more income generation. I may also build other buildings if they have some specific effect I want - but usually that is not something I worry about.
 
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So the new holdings will, once given away, start to upgrade themselves in time. Myself though, if I have the cash, I usually build the town for them to prime the pump, as it were, and ensure they have a little more income generation. I may also build other buildings if they have some specific effect I want - but usually that is not something I worry about.
So that sounds like concentration on the main owned holding in each demesne county most of the time, to start with, possibly excepting some pump-priming, then.
 
So that sounds like concentration on the main owned holding in each demesne county most of the time, to start with, possibly excepting some pump-priming, then.
My general approach as a feudal Christian, and mostly I have played as feudal Christians, is in my capital duchy to build baronies I will hold myself, and in my other duchy title to build cities for money. And cities, once they get going, largely look after themselves.
 
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“Er, just me so far. So I’ll take that as a ‘no’, then?”
The nerve of him!


Ch114 Q1: New Building Projects. Thoughts about types of buildings and locations – say, stick to Holmgarðr first, or go for a certain type of building across all four counties, etc – very welcome. My first thought is to go for money-makers, not start any wars and hope for continued peace, but maybe that should be balanced?
Start with the main county, and other castles in the main duchy. Cities and temples will get new rulers and they can build what they like, and even if you want to build in those holdings do it after giving it to people so that you’ll have the “built a building in my holding” positive modifier with them.


Not at this point, My Emperor. You must reign for ten years, have no count or higher vassal with negative opinion and have implanted late feudal administration laws.”
If legalism 3 is too far away, I think seniority succession should be available at this point.


Ch114 Q3: Military Development. Any guidance on the best general course through these early years of feudalism would be excellent. At present, I’ve got fingers crossed there will be no large military campaign to fight soon, internal or external, especially against tribal foes who can call up those large prestige and piety armies.
This is probably a less helpful kind of advice, but you need to do it all. I’d start with the guard though, then move on with cultural buildings (if possible) or other buildings that increase the good kind of troops (such as barracks that increase heavy infantry and pikemen, stables that increase light and later heavy cavalry; although I prioritize those in different castles so that I can separate heavy cavalry from heavy infantry + pikemen due to the rule of 2, training grounds that increase guard limit etc). For all that, I’d keep on raiding. If possible find a siege specialist general from overseas, keep your men busy at less dangerous places that might give a little less gold but without having to fight.

So, finally feudalism is here as well! That’s a great new start for the new ruler, and it’ll take some time to transition and find his footing.

In addition to the stuff that already needs to be done, I suggest (not immediately but for the future, since it’ll bring a lot of money and ships but less levies, and we don’t currently have a vacant place for that) to create a vassal merchant republic. If not for net in game profit but for the mechanics and role playing. I was about to do the same with my game as Despot of Greece in Crete, but my laptop died just around that time. I think once all is in order, a Baltic merchant republic vassal in southern Finland or western Estonia might be a fun (and maybe useful?) thing to have.

More exciting times for the followers of this great AAR! Let’s see what feudalism has in its bag for the Rurikid dynasty.
 
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Q1 & Q3 Build in capital first, your other holdings second, other holdings in capital next. Hospital for capital. Higher quality troops next. Raiding will still be a major revenue source. Q2 The vassal of your vassal is not your vassal. So, vassal of a vassal can have a bad opinion. But a skilled vassal of a vassal can not serve on your council. I am with @diskoerekto, go seniority if it becomes available first. Seniority guarantees dynastic without splitting inheritance. The drawback is less ability to groom heir, but you may add territory if heir owns land outside of realm. Next ruler can switch from seniority to primo or ultimo. But I am a newbie, so take everything that I write with a barrel of salt.
 
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1) Focus on the baronies you keep yourself for a long while. I usually start with money makers, but I tend to play rulers strong enough to not need more troops on shorter time scales, and that don't have raiding as a source of income. When I have money to spare and nothing to build for myself, I like to give my baron vassals money making buildings and tech-increasing buildings.

2) Correct.

3) I think I only converted once, and fell to a massive civil war immediately after. Probably should have kept playing, recovering from that would make a good game.

Note, the castles don't have moats yet (it you check the descriptions on defensive upgrades, that's one of them). I always envision that this is a process of the ruler's homestead (not even a village) attracting a growing number of warriors who want in on his glory (thus prestige to build many upgrades), with the systems to support them being added in time (money upgrades) and a simple pallisade of some kind. Now he's declared it a capital city, which other fuedal powers would consider just a village, but it'll grow into a proper military city in time. Probably added a motte to the existing bailey, too, but I can't recall the upgrades.
 
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How to build a money factory,:

  1. Be feudal. It unlocks better tax and building options.
  2. Have a large personal domain with lots of potential build slots (the mythical 7 slots are best but a whole domain of 4 or 5 is excellent).
  3. First things first, sieze all the baronies within your domain (castles). This is for two reasons. You need a stable steady income which only your own property can provide. And having lots of fully upgraded castles yourself means you don't need your vassals to provide as many troops. This is important for a later step.
  4. Buy Castle walls and Castle towns for your baronies. These are the best two upgrades for wealth expansion. Cheap, quick and every castle has option for both. Build and upgrade keeps next, and from now on this is the build and upgrade order for your holdings.
  5. Having upgraded your own castles to the tech limit, fill the remaining empty slots in your domain with cities. These are much wealthier and easier to control than any other type of holding.
  6. Once built, upgrade their money facilities too. Town walls and markets again. Later on you can build universities and ports to make your tech spread faster and make your life easier.
  7. Last and least for holding development is the church. They are very temperamental on paying taxes and don't make as much anyway, so buying walls and markets for them isn't a high priority but should be done at least before you start buying specific non-economic upgrades to your other holdings.
  8. It is important to note this advice applies only to your own holdings. The only buildings you should buy elsewhere are ports and, if forced by event or favour, churches.
  9. Having built a money factory in your own domain, making the rest of your vassals pay is simple enough. Go to the tax laws and crank them up as high as you can for everyone. You don't need vassal levies as much as their gold, after all you have your own private army now thats going to be funded by their increased taxes.
  10. This system not only makes the realm more stable (because you as leigelord will be far richer than everyone else and amongst the strongest armies on the map) but makes the game a little more intricate potlcially and economcially, since you can now afford to build wonders and large navies. Poltcially, your vassals are now neutered in peactime but the mallus added to high taxes means that whenever a crisis or invasion does occur, you have to be more cunning about how to handle it, backed by piles of gold of course.
Hope this helps.
 
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Helgi went by the "can't win if you don't try" approach. Result: As expected. Otherwise, no news are good news, I guess.

In terms of feudalism: I'd just make use of my raiding force to loot the coasts and build. Vassals are going to follow into feudalism and provide both levies and tax soon, so current statistics are somewhat, but not entirely useful.

Ch114 Q1: New Building Projects. Thoughts about types of buildings and locations – say, stick to Holmgarðr first, or go for a certain type of building across all four counties, etc – very welcome. My first thought is to go for money-makers, not start any wars and hope for continued peace, but maybe that should be balanced?
As Styrbjörn's focus should be on consolidating, I'd go for military first (in order to scare the vassals into submission/any foreigner into not attacking), income second - just keep behaving like a tribal lord in terms of money (raiding) works well enough for the transition phase (and may unlock higher-tier viking traits for Styrbjörn himself).

Ch114 Q2: Imperial Laws. I know I’ve asked it before, but just confirming: the ‘no count or higher tier vassal of this title’ stipulation related to direct vassals of the Emperor in this case, not to indirect subordinates? Any other broad advice on what I should be aiming for would be welcome.
Yes, only direct vassals matter. As Styrbjörn's young, you should be able to wait for late feudal administration and then choose between primo and ultimo.

If you want a more risky approach (with potentially better payout) then you can always go elective.

Ch114 Q3: Military Development. Any guidance on the best general course through these early years of feudalism would be excellent. At present, I’ve got fingers crossed there will be no large military campaign to fight soon, internal or external, especially against tribal foes who can call up those large prestige and piety armies.
Russia's stronger than it's neighbours, so I think building and raiding should be fairly safe. As long as the raiders aren't defeated somewhere, Styrbjörn's personal force can be strong enough to prevent factions to rise up.
Might also be a good idea to disband the mercenaries now. Eilif could afford losing parts of his levy for the mercs, Styrbjörn can use every man.
 
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