Beneath the Ottomans

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Session 21

Session 21: Death in the Family

Larende 1562

The plans of the cult were proceeding smoothly. Over the past few years they had gained a larger and larger following in the city of Larende. Yet there was also a growing separatist movement in Rhodes. Plans were made between Ankara, Jazmir and Thessor to include Duke Colmar from Rhodes.

Duke Colmar was one of the leading candidates to assume the leading role of the trader dukes. He wasn’t the most powerful or even smartest candidate yet he did have a strong relationship with the people of Rhodes. With his help and the separatist movements in Larende and Rhodes the Grand Council of Teke would be reborn.

However not everyone in the cult wanted the same results. Jazmir was looking for something different. While his brother was away attempting to gain more support with Duke Colmar on Rhodes, he decided to talk to Thessor about another plan of action.

“Thessor, how much do you trust Ankara and Colmar?” Jazmir said,
“We need Duke Colmar more than Ankara. Colmar is a figure head to make our cause valid. Without him our scheme falls apart we carry no legitimately.”
“Indeed, Rhodes is an important center of power in the government of Teke the majority of the trader dukes come from there.”
“Your half-brother Ankara to me seems like he is holding us back. Sure his support and organization have helped us in the past years but I think his role is diminishing. The closer we get to the day of succession the less important he is getting.”
“That is what I was afraid of, Thessor.”

Jazmir looked away from Ankara and wondered what he should do next. He had some ideas who Thessor was; one thing was for certain he wasn’t from Teke. Could he trust Thessor? Or was he some kind of spy? He whirled around and made a quick move for his sword but Thessor was one step ahead of him. Reacting quickly Thessor grabbed Jazmir’s hand and pulled it around his neck in a choke hold. Then he grabbed Jazmir’s sword and held it up to this throat.

“So you think you’ll cut me down before I have a chance to finish.” Thessor whispered into Jazmir’s ear. “I have known you for nearly six years and you are not like your half-brother.”
“Six years does seem like a long time. I’ve only known Ankara for seven.” Jazmir responded.
“Then do you actually trust his leadership?”
“About as much as I trust yours. Then again you are attempting to kill me.”
“Kill you? Bah I was only defending myself. Here, this will proof of my trust.”

Thessor released Jazmir and returned his sword. Jazmir was baffled, Thessor had a chance to kill him but he did not follow up. He wanted to know why.
“What is the point of this I want to know everything!” Jazmir demanded.
“So after all this time you want to know the truth eh. What is in it for me? Thessor questioned.
“A reward… Fine we’ll take this movement away from Ankara and move it in another direction. I know you have another idea.”
“Yes.”
“Then tell me everything so that I can make a decision.”
“It is no secret that the current Sultan Suleyman is dying. His attempts to run his country are failing like his health. Certain high level governmental officials are taking control. His successor Selim II is one of these high level officials. You know of his ambitions to absorb Teke into the Ottoman Empire. I am his agent here in Teke. One might say that I am the eyes and ears of the Ottoman Empire. His plan is bold yet simple and with his help our nations will be united.”
“An interesting proposition. This is exactly what Ankara is afraid of. Ankara as you know wants the Grand Council reformed, yet he is the only one who wants this goal. Our movement does not have a central goal; most of the time we have used subtitle lies to get our points across.”
“Then you know what is death would mean.”
“Yes, his death is the death of the Grand Council and his death gives of an opportunity to join the Ottomans. Then you will have my trust and loyalty. He is my sword take it as a sign of trust and kill Ankara.”
“Then the road of Teke’s destruction has begun.”

Within a few days of this meeting Ankara returned to Larende. He was tired after his trip. He calmly strode into the inn where he was staying, unaware of his impeding doom. He met Thessor in a small room in the back. It did not take Thessor long to overpower him and kill him. Ankara was dead and his body was never found again. Now it was Thessor’s and Jazmir’s chance to rewrite history.

 

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Session 22

Session 22: The Ottoman Gambit Part I 1564-1566

Constantinople 1564

It had been a long road for Selim II. It was almost his time to gain power. Sultan Suleyman was growing weaker and weaker. He believed in delusions that the ‘Unholy Alliance’ would be reformed. But Selim knew better than this. Austria made sure that the alliance would never reform. Their victory nearly 20 years earlier had sealed the alliance. Now it was nothing more than words on a 140 year old aging document. Selim would take pleasure in lighting the Ottoman copy on fire in front of the Teke diplomat.

Selim was alone in his study. A map of the Eastern Mediterranean was spread out on his desk. He had drawn a big black circle around the holdings of Teke, Georgia, Austria Venice and Ak-Kouyunlu. He wanted all of these, but to begin he needed Teke first. They were one of his biggest obstacles of his dreams. Their realm, though small bordered the Ottoman heartland of Asia Minor. The Ottoman defenses here were weak and he could ill afford an all out war here, yet he was prepared for the worst.

“My Lord, I have a message from Teke.” Selim’s aid started.
“Good this is probably the good news that I have been waiting for. You may wait outside.”

Selim was careful not to include anyone else with his master plan. Suleyman would have him beheaded for this treason. It was everything he stood against. Selim opened the note and began to read it.

My lord the preparations are almost complete. Teke is almost at the point of Chaos. Events from the past few years has strengthened and weakened the nation. As you already know their nation has increased the size of its military to nearly 30,000 men. They are also well trained and well lead. This was evident in the last war with Ak-Kouyunlu. This war was to gain battle experience for their troops. But their weakness lies with their leader. The newly appointed leader of the trader dukes has no idea of our preparations. He still believes in the pipedream about the Ottoman-Teke alliance. As you already know relations on both sides of the Alliance have worn thin over the past century. I am sure that the Alliance is about to be broken by us or them it is just a matter of time. Finally he has picked no successor. Duke Colmar our puppet has gone along with our plans. We only wait for your word to strike. In exchange for a governship of the conquered territory, Duke Colmar will hand over Teke to us.

Your faithful servant,
Thessor.

Selim was ready to cast the die and strike. Thessor was successful in his plans. Now all he needed was an assassination and a brief time of civil war in Teke for him to start his rise to power and glory. He recalled his messenger and would send his approval to Thessor

Selim was once again alone in his study. He looked out the window into the moonlight garden below and though.

I wonder how you would have played this one out Murad. Sultans have attempted to live up to you greatness and have either failed or succeeded. Failure is death, or even worse humiliation. Success will grant me immortality like you. You are the hero you caused the Byzantines to fall. You crushed nations below you heel. I will do the same. Starting with a nation you needed. I see no need for them as a nation anymore Yes Teke will be mine!

 

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one month

wow one month has gone by and so far we've seen the Ottomans rise to power then fall.

Though I have only one question so far, Should I keep on going with the current story line with doing the 100 yrs aar then doing the subplots? Or ditch the subpolts and just write the AAR.

After all when i get this one done i've got a good idea for the next AAR an RPG where all of the kings and leaders will be rolled up with a 6 or 10 sided die. Its going to be called 'Imperium.' Mostly likely with the Papal states.

Thanks for reading and i'll have the Succession war and three Ottoman Teke wars subplots done soon.

 

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Session 23

Session 23: The Ottoman Gambit Part II 1564-1566

Rhodes 1565

“He is dead! He is dead!” Jazmir said. His excitement could not be contained. “I had just received the news a few minutes ago.”
“Are you sure about this? Or is that Ottoman just making up false stories again?” Duke Colmar questioned.

Duke Colmar and Jazmir were alone in a large study at the duke’s estate. Unlike his predecessor who was conservative, Colmar was extravagant. But his extravagancies came at a price; his family fortune was almost gone. He was desperate and the scheme of the separatists promised him a fortune if he was put in charge. Otherwise then wealth he had no ambitions for power he lived for the moment.

“No this is the truth Thessor had some of our agents kill him-” Jazmir paused and listened but he heard nothing. “Duke Aras of Antalya had been assassinated.”
“What does this mean, Aras wasn’t a forward thinking man.” Colmar responded.
“Neither are you but that’s ok. Aras did not appoint a successor. Right now there is a power vacuum at the top of the trader dukes. They are like a man without a head there is nothing to control the body.”
“I see, and now is the time that we can make our move?”
“Of course we have already bribed some of the dukes to appoint you as the successor of Aras.”
“Very good when do we begin?”
“Shortly.” Came another voice.
“Shortly? Who said that?” Colmar questioned.

Thessor was in the room for the entire conversation. Colmar didn’t trust Thessor and Thessor didn’t trust Colmar. The only person who they both trusted was Jazmir. Thessor was about to bring the news of Ottoman help to support the separatists. But he knew that Colmar had no idea about this plan. He would have to make him leave.

“Colmar it is time to go you are needed in Antalya.” Thessor said.
“It can wait my appointment as the leader of the dukes is assured.” Colmar responded.
“Go and do as you are commanded to or else you will meet the same fate as Aras!”

With that Colmar fled. Thessor turned to Jazmir and pulled a note from his pocket. He read it to Jazmir.

“He promised us all that when he assumed power?” Jazmir was puzzled. He had no idea that the Ottoman Empire had this many resources.
“All that and more if we can hold out until the death of Suleyman. When the Sultan dies then he will take over and provide us with fresh troops to defeat the army of Teke.”
“Very good when do we start?”
‘Within one year we need time to take control of the garrisons of Rhodes and Larende.”
Thessor left that night to begin his plans. He was confident in his abilities of persuasion, but there was one thing nagging in his mind. Duke Khaled led a detachment of the army of Teke outside of Antalya. He knew of his plot but to what extent. He was there that stormy night in Larende. Thessor decided against worrying about Khaled, he was a minor player in the separatist events and he left the group years before the death of Ankara.

 

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session 24

Session 24: The Ottoman Gambit Part III 1564-1566

Larende 1566

He stood alone on the ramparts of the city wall, and looked out at the empty field around the city. The sun was slowly setting and the Teke flag was lowered to the ground. It was replaced by a red and black banner with a white crescent moon and star. This was the flag of the separatist movement; it symbolized a union of Ottoman and Teke. Thessor had waited year for this time. Teke was in disarray, and sultan Suleyman was going to die within a few weeks. Selim would have his empire one way or another. However there were some minor problems. Duke Khaled proved to be a bigger threat then Thessor had believed him to be.

Duke Khaled had openly and directly challenged Duke Colmar for power. Both sides geared up for a civil war. The separatists and their Ottoman allies supported Colmar. The army of Teke and the remaining trader dukes supported Khaled.

“If we can just hold out for a few weeks until the sultan dies and Selim will save us,” Thessor said. “Khaled has challenged us and has already marched on Rhodes. Colmar is begging us for help. His house guards and loyal troops are his only support there.”
“Rhodes is lost they were only pawns in this scheme Thessor their loss is nothing,” Jazmir said. “Though you are right Khaled is a much bigger problem than first expected what are you going to do about him/”
“Me? You assume that I always have the correct answer Jazmir. What if I said that I had no idea on how to deal with him?”
“Our lives are in your hand Thessor. The Ottomans will save us right?”
“I am not so sure on that.”
“What you have to be kidding. Our whole strategy depends on the Ottoman Empire for support.”
“Selim is ambitious but what he promised us will tax the resources of his realm. The war with Austria destroyed his army and it has never really recovered.”
“Then we are doomed?”
“You fear too much Jazmir, you need to calm down.”

Jazmir left the rampart, Thessor was left alone. He had received two notes but he hesitated to read them. He opened the first note:

Thessor,

Our time has come, Suleyman is dead I am now the sultan. Begin your plans at once! You shall have your support shortly. I just need a few days to move my troops from the frontier to the Teke bordered. When they arrive you will have command of them.

Selim II

Thessor was pleased this was news he was waiting for. He opened the second note and expected the same thing.

Thessor,

There have been some minor problems. Sultan Suleiman left the nation in a weakened state of affair. You are expected to hold out for a longer period than a few weeks. The Empire is in crisis. Our troops are en route but it is taking longer for me to equip them properly. You must hold Larende at all costs or else my troops will have a hard time campaigning in Teke

Selim II

Thessor was lost; he needed the Ottomans now more than ever. What was he going to tell Jazmir? His whole plan depended on the Ottomans for help. He quickly got control of himself. There was nothing to panic about he was in control of Larende and Khaled was in Rhodes attempting to defeat Colmar. He looked one more time into the setting sun to the west. Then to his horror he noticed the gleam of steel as soldiers were approaching from Antalya. The army of Teke had arrived and Khaled was leading them.

 

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Session 25

Session 25: Rite of Succession 1566

Larende 1566

It was all over for the separatists, Larende had fallen to Duke Khaled and his troops. The red and black flag was lowered to the ground as Khaled looked at the pitiful lot of rebels. He noticed that though weakened by hunger and fatigue they were still dangerous.

Duke Khaled had not aged gracefully since his last meeting with Jazmir and Thessor. Still he was not too eager to see them again. He believed that every man had one chance in life and second chances were not allowed. To him Jazmir and Thessor had already used their first chance. He saw the two former leaders of the separatist movement stilling on the ground in chains. They didn’t even look up at him.

“So this is what remains of my contenders for Teke,” Khaled said. Still neither man looked at him. “Duke Colmar is dead, slain at his estate on Rhodes. I believe that the Succession War is over.”

Finally Jazmir looked into Khaled’s blue eyes and said. “It is never over. Believe me you traitor Teke is not yours for the taking.” Jazmir voice was filled with venom. He was enraged but who could he blame to get away with this. He glanced over at Thessor and he smiled. “He is the man you seek. As you know Duke Colmar was a puppet. How could someone like him mastermind this whole plot? You were there that rainy night when we swore that the nation would be changed forever on this day. The day has come Teke has been changed forever.”

Khaled did not understand what Jazmir was talking about. He didn’t care, he only wanted power now. To him Jazmir was either stalling for time of attempting to save his own skin? “What are you talking about?” Khaled demanded.

This was the time for Jazmir’s ploy if he could convince Khaled that Thessor was the true mastermind behind the rebellion then he might be saved and allowed to leave Larende unmolested. “Let me explain.” Jazmir started. “This man sitting beside me is the true leader of the rebellion. He killed by half-brother Ankara years ago. He then bullied me into following his sick plans. The man sitting beside me is named Thessor, an agent from the Ottoman Empire, whose grand plan was to have Teke absorbed into it.”

Thessor did not move. Jazmir squirmed he didn’t know if Duke Khaled was buying his story. Khaled looked at Thessor for one second. “Do you want to say anything Ottoman or should I just send you on your way?” Khaled questioned.

Unfazed Thessor finally looked at Khaled. “You know that I am nothing more than a spy. I will not attempt to lie but what you don’t know is that the Ottomans are preparing for war against Teke. Jazmir was right Sultan Selim wants Teke for himself and he has already begun preparations for an invasion. Larende was just a stalling tactic so that Selim could organize an invasion. In short Khaled, Teke is doomed.”
“Yes! Yes! Admit your guilt to him.” Jazmir bellowed. “Duke Khaled here is your leader. Kill him now and-.”

Jazmir never finished his sentence; his neck was broken by one of Khaled’s troops. With Jazmir dead Khaled wanted to see Thessor’s reaction. Thessor was not afraid of death and seemed unfazed by the death of his colleague.

“So Thessor this leaves only you and I.” Khaled said. “Thessor, the Ottomans are our biggest threat. You know how Selim thinks perhaps we can work out a deal.”
“What kind of deal?” Thessor returned.
“Information in exchange for your life.”
“I’m interested keep on talking.”
“The Ottoman Empire could easily crush Teke in a war. No doubt that Selim intends to attack Antalya first. However, there are some weaknesses in the Ottoman war machine. I want you to tell me everything you know. In exchange for this I’ll let you live and you may even serve me. How does that sound?”
“You want me to betray my master for my life. There has to be more.”
“More? Oh I see you have a price. I’ve forgotten how much Selim paid you for his scheme.”
“Not enough to pay my taxes every year.”
“Taxes bah. Serve me and you’ll never worry about taxes again. Together with you knowledge of the Ottoman Empire and my army perhaps we can still change the future.”

Duke Khaled offered his hand in friendship to Thessor, Thessor only had two choices accept or decline. If he accepted it wouldn’t be a great loss to him after all he was an agent who lived for gold. If he declined then he would be dead and forgotten. He chose to preserve himself and shook Khaled’s hand. The two men would begin to plot a new plan to save Teke and rule it at the same time.

 

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Session 26

Session 26: Race against Time 1568

Alexandretta 1568

It had been nearly a year since Thessor had entered the service of his new master Duke Khaled. Thessor was tired, but he knew he had too much work to do. As the Duke’s spymaster and chief minister it was his job to keep Khaled informed of everything that needed to be done. Still he was unsure how to break the current news to Khaled that his homeland was in trouble.

The First Ottoman-Teke was well over a year old and both sides had engaged in some horrific battles. But Duke Khaled had led his men to victory at Konya and Adana. Yet these were only minor battles the true test would be coming in the next few weeks. Thessor had witnessed some of the fighting but he was more concerned with getting information from his every growing network of spies.

Thessor entered Khaled’s tent. The duke was looking at a map of Asia Minor. There were plenty of markings on the map and Thessor understood them all. He was the man who put them there after debating with Khaled on how to fight the Ottomans defensive or offensive. They chose to attack and took Konya in less than a year. But their army had bogged down around Alexandretta.

“What is the latest from the front Thessor?” Khaled demanded. “Alexandretta has not fallen and Selim has yet to send any large forces against us. What is going on here what am I missing?”

“My Lord it is my duty to report that has been some trouble at home in Antalya.” Thessor began. He didn’t know what to expect.

Duke Khaled was unpredictable. At Konya he was a brilliant commander, easily destroying an entire Ottoman army while only losing a few thousand men. But during the siege he killed several men who disobeyed his orders in fits or rage. When Alexandretta refused to surrender he threw a temper tantrum.

“Trouble? What kind of trouble.” Khaled sounded annoyed. “We’ve been away from Teke for so long what could possibly be the trouble? The Ottomans are clearly not putting too much effort into this war. Selim II must not have confidence in his generals.”
“My lord you are wrong.” Thessor corrected him.
“Wrong? How so explain.”

Thessor took a deep breath and was ready to give the bad news to Khaled. “Antalya has been besieged. It-.”
“Impossible!”
“My Lord please allow me to finish.”
“Sorry, Thessor it has been a hard campagain but now to receive this new that my homeland is under attack. Please continue.”
“Very well. This message had just arrived a few hours ago. Antalya has been under siege for several weeks now. The people are starving and the city’s defenses are weakening. The Ottomans have a large army camped outside. The message also states that the city can hold on for a few months longer but they governor is insistent that you head back to Antalya and drive of the Ottomans.”
“Ok. What do you think of the situation?”
“Me. What makes you think that I’m a good source on how to deal with this threat?”
“You know how the Ottoman’s think. Where they will be weakest. And how keep on fighting this war. After all you are my spymaster and chief minister. I already have a plan.”

Khaled opened up his map of Asia Minor and guided Thessor’s attention to several cities. “This is where Antalya is. We are here at Alexandretta. Larende lies right here.”
“Duke Khaled I already know about how Asia Minor looks. Maybe we should-.”
“It is my turn to talk Thessor.” Khaled bellowed. He took some time to let his anger cool off and resumed. “All three cities are important. Antalya is our capital and it must be defended at all costs. Alesxandretta is our current siege and we cannot fall back or else the Ottomans will know that we are weak. Larende is where our reinforcements are being trained. My plan is to leave enough troops under your command to take Alexandretta. Then I’ll march to Larende and pick up our reinforcements. Finally I’ll march on Antalya and drive the Ottomans back into Smyrna.”
“A bold move Khaled. Though you know about what happens to leaders who split their armies in times of need.”
“They lose. But this is truly a dire situation and Antalya must be protected.”
“I leave you in command of 6,000 men. Take Alexandretta and join me in Antalya where we will toast our victory.”
“Yes my Lord.”

The next morning Khaled set out from Alexandretta with 8,000 men to Larende. Thessor remained at Alexandretta to finish off the siege. The race was on for Khaled he needed to arrive in time to defeat the Ottomans and push on through to more glory. However, during his march Khaled failed to realize what the price would be for dividing his men and not having Thessor at his side during the battle for Antalya.

 

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Session 28

Session 27: Legends Born in Battle 1568

Antalya 1568

In February 1568 Duke Khaled and his Teke army engaged the Ottoman Empire’s forces at the battle of Antalya. It had been a long march for Khaled. Although he was reinforced with fresh recruits from the Larende garrison, his army was still outnumbered by 5,000 men. In his race to save Antalya from falling, he had gained and lost advantages. He gained the element of surprise. The Ottoman forces at Antalya had no idea that Khaled was coming to relieve the city. He had lost his primary source of information Thessor, his chief minister. Thessor understood how the Ottoman forces thought and how to defeat them in battle. The tragic battle for Antalya was about to begin.

On the morning of February 17th 1568 leading elements of the army of Teke clashed with the rear lines of the Ottomans at the village of Naspur. The skirmish lasted a few minutes. Duke Khaled quickly gained the upper hand and the battle had begun. Reacting quickly, the Ottoman general reorganized his troops and sent the main body of his troops to the rear of his siege works. It was almost noon when the battle turned in favor of the Ottoman Empire. They had launched a fierce counter attack and drove Khaled and his men out of Naspur. They fell back across the plains, near a swamp.

As the early afternoon progressed both sides prepared for the final part of the battle. Duke Khaled’s men were in trouble. They had lost the element of surprise. The Ottomans held the advantage and high ground. Khaled felt lost. Without Thessor he felt alone facing off against the Ottoman hordes. He needed a miracle and he was about to receive one.

As men on both sides waited to die on group was determined to finish the battle as quickly as possible. Duke Khaled’s bodyguard called the 1st Guards readied themselves for battle even though they were responsible for his safety. On that day they saw themselves as something more than bodyguards, they were going out to save a nation.

Duke Khaled was ready to launch a counter attack across the open plains. He was about to send in his reserves but he had received disturbing news that his bodyguards had left their posts and entered the swamps on the Ottoman left flank. At this point in time Khaled had no idea what had gone on or what was going in.

The Ottoman forces were also reading themselves for an assault that afternoon. They had reinforced their lines in the center. They had perceived no threat from their left flank. However, this lapse in security would cost them the battle and many lives. As if on cue the 1st Guards emerged from the swamp and attacked the left flank. They had quickly gained an advantaged over the weak Ottoman defenses in that area. The fighting was over before it had even begun. All along the left flank Ottoman and Teke troops were dying.

The rout was on as the 1st Guards pressed their advantage and moved on the Ottoman rear. The Ottoman general realized that his supplies were in danger and shuffled his lines around. He had repositioned his troops so that the bulk of them were facing the rear. The general had though that there was a second army attacking him from his rear.

Duke Khaled had seen the change in the Ottomans tactics. They had weakened their lines in the front. But Khaled did not understand why at this point. He took this opportunity to reorganize his troops and launch one of the biggest counter attacks of the war. His forces surged forward and closed the gap between the Ottoman and Teke lines. The fighting had lasted several hours as the Ottoman general had begun to realize that he was almost encircled. His forces began to pull back to Naspur and by night fall he was full retreat. Anatalya was saved.

Duke Khaled emerged victorious that day but the cost was staggering on both sides. When the battle was over Khaled stood in front of his remaining troops and could not comprehend what had happened to the 1st Guards. Their ranks had thinned. Many were dead. Others were gravely wounded. On that day the 1st Guards had ceased on being a unit. It was said that Duke Khaled had wept in public. The majority of the men who served in this unit were his closest friends. He had handpicked the best soldiers from the army and asked them to serve as his guards.

Those few soldiers who had survived the assault the Ottoman reprisal told Duke Khaled what happened next. Less than 2,000 men held off nearly a number three times it size. They had bought Khaled enough time to start his counter attack and drive the Ottomans from Antalya. From that time on the 1st Guards ceased being a bodyguard unit. They were transformed into legends. Future generations would be told the stories of their heroics and how they had saved Anatalya from destruction.

 

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Session 29

Session 28: Selim’s Vendetta 1572

Constantinople 1572

Sultan Selim II of the Ottoman Empire could not escape his failure from three years before. Duke Khaled and Teke had humiliated him. His troops had lost several important battles especially at Antalya. His dream of being the greatest Ottoman sultan of all time was in peril. He had lost valuable resources and territory to his newest rival. He was also afraid about his future. Over ten years ago Thessor had given him the opportunity to destroy Teke once and for all. But Thessor failed. His generals had failed him. His people had failed him. Selim II was a person who would never blame himself or take responsibility for his actions. His people had already suffered during the First Ottoman-Teke war.

Selim II sat in his massive golden throne in Constantinople. His world was falling apart. His advisors and ministers shouted at him and each other. All of them were confused, there was no leadership in Constantinople that day only bickering and arguing on how to get revenge and save their nation. The ministers gave their ideas to the sultan to ponder. Several suggested a new war to take back the lands they had lost during the last war. Others wanted to reform the nation and attack Austria. Selim II did not pay attention to any of his advisors he was off in his own little world away from the realities of life.

While arguing with each other they failed to notice that Selim II was not paying attention to them or their ideas until he finally stood up from this throne. To their horror he has simply left the main chamber and retired to his private study.

Selim II had shut the door behind him. He had not been in this room since he had read the last letter from Thessor. But now he re-entered the room and his fascination with Teke took control over him. He imagined that he was seated at the head of a council of war. He spread his map of Asia Minor and the Balkans before him on the desk and looked up. He saw nothing. No one was there in the room but him. For that one second he realized that he was alone. But his imagination took control of him again and he started his meeting with his imaginary generals.

“Generals I give you my plans to the complete domination of Teke.” Selim said aloud. He paused to let the idea soak in and continued. “Following our last defeat at Antalya I have spent years reforming the army. You are my best generals and commanders. Now it is our time to strike. The plan will be a simple follow the rebellions in Teke. My plan is to incite rebellions in our border provinces and let the rebels take control of the region. Once they are in charge of the territory their rebellion will spread to Teke and cause Duke Khaled to flee for his life.” Selim looked about the room for approval. There were no objections to his plans and he continued. “You see rebellion can be a good and bad thing. If the rebellion spreads it can serve our cause because our former countrymen in the provinces of Konya and Adana will join us again. We can call it a popular rebellion.” Selim pointed to the map. He circled the two provinces. “From there we shall follow the rebels south and let the rebels engage Teke troops while we follow along behind them and take their cities. This plan is sheer brilliance and I expect you to follow your orders. You are now all dismissed. Go to your units and await your orders to march on Teke.”

The war council had ended just has Selim II has predicted. He was in full control of that room. Slowly he opened the door and returned to his main chambers. His advisors were still waiting there in stunned silence. They were afraid and unaware what the sultan was planning.

Selim II sat in his throne and began to speak about rebellion and opportunity. But when he was finished the advisors simply went back into their old routine of arguing. The session has lasted long into the night. Selim II was tired of this debate. He took control and demanded that his orders be followed. The invasion of Teke and rebellions would begin at once. Taxes increased and religious tolerance would decrease. The Ottoman Empire was turning into a nation of contrasts.

 

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Session 29

Session 29: Death of Selim II 1574

Constantinople 1574

He was a prisoner in his own palace. Everything that he had known had disappeared over night. The rebels had overrun the capital of his realm. There was no where for him to flee to. His loyal troops were traitors to the empire they had sworn to protect. Selim II was truly alone in his most desperate hour.

Selim’s grand plan to take Teke had backfired. He incited rebellions in his own border provinces of Smyrna and Anatolia. From there the rebellion was to spread to Konya and Adana. With Teke’s forces defeated by rebels, the sultan’s troops would have little or no effort to retake his lost land. The main problem in his plan was that it was his own people who were doing the fighting and not the Ottoman armies. The rebellions that were to spread to Teke never happened. Instead the majority of his empire was in rebellion against him. Greece, Asia Minor, The Balkans and Egypt openly defied him. To make matters worse Selim II declared war on Teke. His fate was now doomed.

Selim II paced nervously in his study. He did not want to hear the bad news but he knew what was going on. Constantinople was under siege and there was nothing he could do about it. He looked down at his map and remembered better times. Years ago he plotted the downfall of Teke. He remembered his encouraging messages with Thessor, who had defected to the other side. He looked up and realized that his time was nearing the end.

“They will never take me alive!” Selim II shouted. “Do you hear me Murad II! I refuse to believe that this rabble can defeat me!”
“My lord who are you talking to?” said his servant Omar.
“Omar, What are you doing here? I though I had sent you away they will be here any minute.”
“Yes you did send me away but I saw them, they are coming right now.”
“Those vermin will never take me alive.”
“Those vermin? You mean the rebels. My lord I am sorry to report that several more provinces have gone into rebellion. The situation is worse than expected.”
“I know and it is not my problem anymore. Omar you are dismissed. Leave at once.”
“I understand my lord.” Omar said and left the sultan’s side for the final time.

Selim II was alone again in his private study. He looked out the window and saw his moonlit garden again. However, the inspiring view was gone. It was replaced by a scene of devastation. He was hopelessly depressed. His garden was ruined like his empire. Now there was nothing left for him to do. The door burst open and the rebels entered into the room.

“Well, well, well, look at what we have here!” The leader’s voice boomed. “Looks like we got him.”
“Do you think you won the day.” Selim II said defiantly.
“Won the day? You must be crazy our work has only begun.” The leader looked around Selim’s study. He saw the map that Selim had used for his plans. “I see now that you are truly mad. Take him away.”
“Never! You will have to kill me first.” Selim screamed.

It did not take long for the rebels to subdue Selim II. Shackled and chained to a post in the center of the capital, he was put on display like a common criminal. He was humiliated and broken yet there was no sympathy for him. Peasants and rebels alike turned out for his execution. He was beheaded after two months after his capture. The news of Selim II’s death had spread like wildfire across the empire. Yet the rebellions did not end. It was not until 1578 when Duke Khaled and his men took Constantinople from the rebels when he learned the fate of his rival. He did not weep or even care. For Khaled it was one more obstacle out of his way.

 

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Session 30

Session 30: The King of Asia Minor 1580

Bursa 1580

The second Ottoman-Teke War was drawing to a close. After the death of Selim II, the Ottoman Empire began to fragment into smaller nations. Duke Khaled took this opportunity to march freely across Asia Minor and capture the majority of its cities. There was no stopping him. However, Duke Khaled was hungry for more land and power. He drove his troops to their breaking point.

By 1580 both the Ottoman Empire and Teke had been fighting this war for nearly a decade. Both nations faced serious rebellions. Duke Khaled was forced to admit that his nation could take no more war. Although he desired more he knew that his nation was ready to collapse. But he had one more plan.

“Thessor come in.” Khaled beckoned to his closest advisor. “It is time for us to end this war.”
“I agree my Lord.” Thessor said. He looked at the duke, and began to realize that this was merely the beginning of something. “The war should be over. Yet why do you still plan a new offensive?”
“Nonsense Thessor. Our nation cannot go on with this war anymore. We have drained the state’s treasury. Trade has been disrupted. And we face rebellions in our newly conquered territories.” Khaled turned his back to Thessor and mumbled something.
“What was that Khaled?” Thessor questioned. “What did you say?”
“How does King Khaled of Asia Minor sound?”
“What? You have to be kidding a royal title.” Thessor’s jaw dropped open. All of this time he did not realize what Khaled was planning. During the war, Duke Khaled said that he was only expanding the nation’s influence abroad. Yet this royal title was everything that the nation was against. It was like Teke was turning into the Ottoman Empire. “You cannot be serious Khaled. The people will have your head for this.”
“Will they you think?” Duke Khaled growled. “I am more powerful than ever before. My fame has spread across the land. There is nothing that can stop me.”
“The Ottomans will attempt to stop you.”
“The Ottomans. Thessor surely you are kidding me. They are broken. The new sultan Murad III is looking for peace at any price. A royal title costs nothing and it gives me a claim to the rest of Asia Minor.

Duke Khaled left Thessor alone. Thessor could not understand what the duke was trying to accomplish. He was not the same man that he had known after the fall of Larende. Thessor wondered if Duke Khaled had changed for the better or worse.

A few days passed as the leaders of Teke and the Ottoman Empire met in Bursa to formally end the second Ottoman-Teke War. Sultan Murad III was eager to end the war and restore order in his realm. Duke Khaled was ready to continue the war if he did not get what he wanted at the peace deal.

“So it comes down to this Murad III.” Khaled said. “It is a pleasure to meet you for the first time.”
“Duke Khaled.” Murad III said with an icy tone. “You have proved yourself to be a formidable opponent on the battle field. However, it is time for the war to end.”
“I agree.” Khaled gestured with his hand for a servant to bring him and the sultan drinks. “Perhaps you would like a few drinks to lessen the tension between us?”
“No. I think it is better if we keep this session as informal as possible.” Murad III returned.
Duke Khaled reacted as if he was slapped in the face. He struggled to keep his anger in check. “Murad you reject my hospitality! I ought to continue this war and turn the rest of the Ottoman Empire into ashes!”
Murad III was intimidated. Although he never met Duke Khaled, he knew of his short temper. “I am sorry Khaled.”
“Your apology is accepted.” Khaled quickly regained his composure. “Let us forget about the drink and get down to the real reason why we are here.”
“Yes.” Murad III trembled. He did not want to stay in the same room with Khaled for any longer than he had too.
“This war has been going on for nearly a decade. Your troops and mine have shed blood for too long. We have captured nearly all of Asia Minor while your troops have only taken Rhodes. You already know what happened to your predecessor Selim II. He was killed by a mob. I am sure that you do not want to end up the same way?”
“No.” Murad said quietly.
“Then I give you my terms.” Khaled knew he was in control and decided that he wanted to take as much as possible. “I demand that you cede everything to the west of the Kizil River to me.”
“Everything west of Kizil! My nation will be ruined. We will be divided. There is no way that I can cede you that much territory. I know that Smyrna and Anatolia fell quickly but Kastamon and Angora only fell within the last two year.”
“So you are willing to cede only Smyrna and Anatolia. Fine I will take everything to the west of the Sakarya River. Also if you pay war reparations then you shall have your peace.”
“I uh….” Murad III was backed into a corner. Khaled took advantage of Murad III. “Very well Smyrna and Anatolia are yours Khaled. With that I shall take my leave and proclaim the good news of peace.”
“Just one second Murad!” Khaled said with a large evil smile on his face.
“Yes.” Murad III turned around.
“I think that we should discuss one more thing.”
“And that is?”
Duke Khaled closed on Murad III and whispered into his ear, “In your peace declaration you will name me as King of Asia Minor.”
“I cannot do that! Are you mad Khaled?”
“Mad?” Khaled was caught off guard. He was ready to strangle Murad III. “You listen to me you Ottoman bastard. I have tried to be civil but I am at the end of my patience. I have defeated your troops on the battlefield. Give me what is rightfully mine and I will let you live. But if you do not give me what I want now you to know that you will never leave this chamber alive!’
“Fine you shall have it. But I want to know why you want it Khaled.”
“Your nation has bullied mine for over 150 years. Quite simply put I am bullying you for a royal title so that Teke can now be a legitimate power. When I am proclaimed King of Asia Minor, all of the nations of the world will respect me and Teke.”

Murad III left Khaled alone now. Khaled was no long a duke of Teke. In a few hours he would be proclaimed King Khaled of Teke and ruler of Asia Minor. He laughed out loud. There was nothing that could stop him now his dreams of conquest and invincibility had only started. The worst was about to come.

 

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Session 31

Session 31: The Specter of War 1596

Antalya 1596

It had been over 15 years since King Khaled had received his royal title from Murad III. In those years Khaled had successfully rebuilt his ruined country. But the death of Thessor, his chief advisor had weighed heavily on the man’s heart. Thessor’s replacement Arenous of Rhodes was a competent man but he did not have the skills of Thessor.

“Arenous where are you?” Khaled shouted. “I wanted you in here 20 minutes ago! I swear you will be the end of me.”
“I am coming my Lord.” Arenous replied from the next room. He sprinted into Khaled’s map room.
“Very good. I see that you are becoming more reliable. Maybe in a few years you might become more like your predecessor.”
“Thessor? I hardly knew the man.” Arenous started. “But I am sure that he knew how to keep the state affairs in line.”
“Really? Is that all you think of him as?” Khaled paused. “Thessor was once my enemy. He was a spy sent by Selim II to destroy Teke. However with the right persuasion I had convinced him to join me. Arenous until you prove yourself to me you will never and I mean never compare with your predecessor.”
“What!” Arenous was upset. “How dare you say that I am nothing I will have you know that I have studied with the best princes in Europe.”
“That will be enough.” Khaled said. “Need I remind you that you are in my service and debt. I can have you killed at anytime. Remember trust earned and never gained. Thessor earned my trust. You will have to do the same.”
“Yes I understand.”
“Good then let us proceed.” Khaled gestured to his map on the desk. “As you already know I was proclaimed king of Asia Minor by Murad III. However his successor Meh.Med III is challenging my claim. It seems that Murad never told him about me.”
“Then he is in for a rude surprise.” Arenous said. “His realm is divided and his army has been weakened. It should be an easy war.”
“Never underestimate your enemy Arenous.” Khaled was annoyed that Arenous was no as perceptive as Thessor. If Thessor was here he would know where to strike at the Ottoman Empire first Thessor thought. “No this war will be an ugly war unlike the previous one.”
“Meh.Med III is not as mad as Selim II but he does have the same ideas about restoring his realm to its full size.”
“I see that you understand about him. Very well Meh.Med III is very easy to understand is not a complicated man. But he cannot be bullied like Murad III.”
“Bullied? I do not understand?” Arenous said.
“Yes I bullied Murad for my title.” Khaled stopped for a second and looked at the map. “I have been leading troops across Asia Minor for nearly 35 years; I know the terrain very well.” He looked at Arenous and sighed. “I am getting too old to lead troops. I will be 68 at the end of the year. Maybe I should drop my claim to Asia Minor.”
“My lord I do not understand your thinking you have lost me.”
“Yes I know I lost Thessor plenty of times.” Khaled said. He looked out the window into the setting sun. “No it is mine,” He said defiantly. “Meh.Med III will know that this land is all mine.”
“Very good.” Arenous approached from behind. “Then I should give you the encouraging news.”
“You were holding out on me?”
“Yes. I am sorry but I did not know how to break this news to you. Certain powers in Europe would like to see us destroy the Ottoman Empire.” Arenous started. “France, Spain and Austria see us as the lesser of two evils. They have sent gifts of gold to bolster our treasury. In turn they are financing a war.”
“Excellent!” Khaled knew that his title was finally paying off. “Then war it is. Arenous draft a message to Meh.Med III saying that Asia Minor is mine, and he can try to stop me as I take it by force.”
“At once my Lord. Will there be anything else?”
“Yes prepare our main army for battle. For we march on Constantinople and kill Meh.Med III.”

Arenous left the room to begin to draft Khaled’s threat to Meh.Med. He wondered what the future had in store for him. This would be his first war. He had only been at his job for a few months and already he was worn out. To him King Khaled was man possessed by something but he did not understand what. But what he did know what that the king was up to something. He quickly forgot about his speculation as he arrived in his own study. He took his quill pen a dabbed and thought how would Thessor write this letter.

King Khaled was alone now. The sun was setting in the west over the hills. He was thinking about how far he had come and how far there was still to go. He had taken what he wanted by force and Europe wanted him to take more.

 

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Session 32

Session 32: Khaled’s Tyranny 1597

Kastamonu 1597

The city of Kastamonu had fallen only a few hours before King Khaled arrived at the city. The war had been going well for Khaled and Teke. They had defeated several small armies and Constantinople was under their control. However, on this day Khaled was in a really bad mood. Meh.Med III had escaped from his capital to Egypt. He was beyond the reach of Khaled. Khaled wanted him dead for his insulting reply to his ultimatum. He would have his vengeance on the survivors of Kastamonu.

Khaled entered Kastamonu on his horse. Smoke piped up from the numerous small fires that engulfed the city. The streets were filled with debris from the nearby ruins. Survivors scurried about looking for anything they could carry off or use to help them survive. Khaled was not impressed. He felt cheated.

“Arenous come here at once.” Khaled bellowed. “Where are the remaining Ottoman troops from the garrison that surrendered?”
“They are under guard on the outskirts of the city.” Arenous said. He was disgusted with this war already. He never thought that war could be so vile. He suppressed the urge to vomit when he saw his first dead body. But even after a few he still had the sensation to vomit. “Shall I round them up and bring them here.”
“Yes go and get that scum. It is time to make an example of them.”
“An example?” Arenous was bewildered.
“Yes go now before a get anymore upset!” Khaled demanded.
“At once!” Arenous ran off toward the city gate.

Khaled turned his attention to Kastamonu again. He wanted to make an example to Meh.Med III. He wanted Meh.med to fear the name of Khaled forever. His thoughts were interrupted by a beggar at his feet.

“My lord do you have any food to spare for me any my family? Our house was destroyed and my family is starving.” The beggar pleaded. “I have three children who are sick and my wife is carrying a forth. Please help me.”
“You want me to help you?” Khaled said in a civil tone. He was sickened at the sight and smell of this unwashed heathen. He wanted to slay this man and his family just because he was begging. “Yes I can help you.”
“You can! Thank you my Lord!” The beggar smiled. Khaled winced as he saw that the man only had a few yellow teeth left. “I will be in your debt forever.”
“I shall send you on your way with a gift friend.” Khaled said with a smile. He drew his sword and slashed the man across his chest. The beggar fell to the ground and died. “Indeed here is your gift.” Khaled laughed. “Meh.Med will have his example here and now!” He paused and looked at the body for a moment. “Captain!” he shouted.
“Yes sire.” The captain of the 1st Guards yelled as rode over to Khaled. “Is there something wrong?”
“No. But it is time to set an example.”
“An example sire? I do not understand.”
“Do you see this beggar? He has attempted to assault me and kill your king.” Khaled lied. “Go and round up more of these beggars and bring them to the city square.”
“I understand my Lord; it is time to show these people who rules them now.” The Captain said and rode off to relay Khaled’s orders.

Within a few minutes Arenous returned to Khaled’s side. He was exhausted from his run. “My lord preparations have been completed the remaining soldiers of the Ottoman garrison are going to the makeshift prison.”
“I have had a change of heart Arenous. Bring them to the city square as soon as possible.”
“Sire I do not understand? But I will bring them there as soon as I can.”
“Very good Arenous you learn fast.”
Arenous turned around and was about to run off toward the city gate again. He then noticed the body at his feet for the first time. He was horrified at the beggars death face. He doubled over and vomited. Arenous thought it was over by when he saw the rats eating the flesh he vomited again.
“My boy we will have to teach you are the horrors of war one day!” Khaled laughed at the weak stomach of Arenous.

A few minutes later Arenous was well enough to be on his way. Khaled rode off into toward the city square and saw more beggars. The 1st Guards were working fast to round them up and bring them into the city square. When the beggars arrived in the square they saw the surviving garrison members on wooden scaffolding. Each man was either tied up to a noose or had his head on a chopping block. Khaled stood in front of them a gestured with his hand. The trap doors opened and the axes fell. The remaining survivors died that afternoon. They were executed like common criminals. Khaled laughed. he had his example. Arenous vomited more. Khaled then ordered the captain to pick random members out of the audience and to repeat the process until everyone swore a personal allegiance to Khaled. More innocent people died that day. Khaled watched them all die until the remaining beggars swore their loyalty to him.

The massacre at Kastamonu was one of King Khaled’s worst actions during the third Ottoman-Teke war. However it was not his last one either. There would be more massacres at other cities, but none were of the scale of this one. News spread like wildfire of Khaled’s atrocities. Nobility and commoners were disgusted. Meh.Med III was sickened that his own people were dying just to be made an example of. Khaled had sent his brutal message. The only thing that could save the people of the Ottoman Empire would be Khaled's death.

 

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Very, very nice. Screenies?

 

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Session 33

Session 33: Death of the Tyrant 1601

Famagusta 1601

It had been a taxing campaign for King Khaled and his men. He had marched them all across Asia Minor; taking city after city and killing soldier and civilian alike. He had earned a fearsome reputation that would frighten even the most hardened soldier. But now he faced his final challenge.

The army of Teke had landed on the shores of Cyprus in late 1599. They had immediately begun to besiege the fortress city of Famagusta. The majority of the soldiers understood the recent history of Cyprus. In the 1513 the Ottoman Empire had conquered it from their former Christian owners. But it had cost the Ottoman Empire thousands of troops to take. They were repulsed four times from the island. Now it was Teke’s turn to attempt to take the ‘Island of the Dammed.’

King Khaled looked at the fortress of Famagusta, he knew it well. He had read Duke Aerton’s journal about how the Ottomans had taken the city in less than a year. His troops had spent nearly half of that time just digging trenches and fortifications around it. He knew that there was only one other way to make Famagusta fall.

“Arenous!” Khaled shouted. “Come here at once!”
“Yes sire?” Arenous answered.
“Prepare the men for an all-out assault!”
“Are you certain that this move is wise?” Arenous said weakly.
“How dare you question my commands?” Khaled bellowed He grabbed the front of Arenous’s tunic and held him in choke hold. “You will obey or your life ends now.”
“Yes.” Arenous quipped.
“Then go and do your job!” Khaled said with an evil smile. “Go prepare my guards and troops we will storm the fortress nothing can stop me.”
“Sire I need to remind you of some minor things.”
“What?” Khaled said he was getting quickly irritated with Arenous’s constant nagging about small unimportant details.
“My lord you sent your guards home to Antalya a few weeks ago due to insubordination.” Arenous closed his eyes and flinched. Khaled did not strike him so he continued. “We have not secured an entrance to the city yet. And do you think it is wise to attack a fortress when there are no breaches in the wall?”
“No I guess not.” Khaled hesitated for a moment. “Arenous you are a fool. We outnumber them by 12,000 men. The odds are in our favor. And with my leadership Famagusta will fall!”
“Sire surely you should reconsider. Your advanced age could slow down the troops you would be nothing more than a target.”
“Advanced age? Of course I am old. Arenous you powers of observation are impressive but I am not impressed. You are dismissed.”
“Dismissed?” Arenous questioned.
“Yes.” Khaled punched Arenous across the face. He fell the ground and was unconscious. “One day you will understand why I did this.” Khaled said. He called for his officers to round up the men and prepare for battle.

When Arenous awoke several hours later he did not realize how long he was out for. He stood up and looked for the nearest soldier. After searching for several minutes he found a soldier. The man was down on all fours crying.

“What is going one here.” Arenous asked.
“He is dead. He is dead.” The soldier said while crying.
“Slow down. I do not understand.”
“He is dead. He is dead.” The soldier repeated.
“I am getting tired of this now.” Arenous suppressed his rage. He wanted to know what was going on. “You will tell me what is going on.”
“Its King Khaled he is dead.”
Arenous stood there and did not know what to feel. He felt empty inside. He felt no sorrow for the tyrant. “It is better that he is dead.”
“You cannot be serious!” The soldier said full of hysteria. “Our king Khaled is dead! He was slain by the Ottomans.”
“Explain to me how he died.”
“He was killed as he rode through the gate. Ottoman troops surrounded him and attacked. Khaled fell after being stabbed several times. After Khaled died, we gathered his body and retreated from Famagusta.”
“So we have the body.” Arenous said. “Then we should ship it home to Antalya and give it a proper burial. He was a warrior and should be remembered as a warrior and not a tyrant.”
“Tyrant?”
“Yes. Khaled did some horrible things during this campagain and I want to make sure that it does not happen again.”

With that Arenous sent the soldier away to begin preparations to send Khaled’s body back to Antayla. He stood there alone and saw the Ottoman flag still fluttering in the breeze.

“Khaled is dead it seems that this island has sealed the fate of another man.” Arenous said to himself solemnly. “He may have been a tyrant in his final years but he will always be remembered as the King of Asia Minor.”

 

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Session 34 Final chapter

Session 34: Beneath the Ottomans no more 1603

Antayla 1603

Two men sat at opposite sides of a rectangular table. A map of the eastern Mediterranean Sea was spread across the table. They had spent many hours discussing how to settle their differences. Arenous prime minister of Teke looked at his counterpart the new Sultan of the Ottoman Empire Ah.med. Their only goal at this meeting was how to end the Third Ottoman-Teke war.

“So it is decided then.” Arenous said. “We both agree that Cyprus will be a Teke domain. You are paying a very high price for peace Ah.med.”
“Yes I know it pains me to say this but my nation is not as strong as it once was.” Ah.med began. “We have been fighting wars against each other for nearly 30 years. Meh.Med III Selim II and Khaled are all victims of these wars. Their personal vendettas brought us down the road to war.”
“But it is your wisdom Ah.Med that will save us all.”
“My wisdom? Surely you cannot be serious Aernous. I have ceded all of Asia Minor to Teke.” Ah.Med questioned.
“All of which is for the sake of peace. You were the one who began the peace process.” Arenous paused to let his words sink into Ah.Med’s head. “Peace is never gained it is earned. A friend told me that saying once.”
“Who said that?”
“Khaled did before he died.”
“Khaled?” Ah.Med was shocked he could not believe that the tyrant had said that. “Khaled was a tyrant. You out of all people should know that Arenous. He beat you and humiliated you during his final years.”
“Yes he did do that.” Arenous said. “But he was a very influentional man. You cannot say that we have arrived at this point in history without that man.”
“Sure. If you do not count how many people are dead because of him, Med.Med III and Selim II.”
“Ah.Med you are a bitter man. Look at what we have accomplished in the past few days. An end of hostilities between our two nations and a promise for the future.”
“But at what cost Arenous?” Ah.Med questioned.
“The cost was not yours to bear in the beginning Ah.Med. You must realize what is left of your realm. The Ottoman Empire is no more. Sure your nation is still called the Ottoman Empire in name only.” Arenous looked at the map and gestured to it. “The former Ottoman Empire is now composed of successor states. Bulgaria controls the Balkan lands. The Mameluks control Egypt. Your realm controls Greece and the Holy Land. And Teke controls Asia Minor. Ah.Med what we have achieved here is stability for once. All of these nations are equal.”


“So that is what you call it Arenous. Successor States. There has to be some kind of catch.”
“No catch. What we are going for is balance Ah.Med.”
“Very good I see now. But how will this play out in the end.”
“That is up for us to decide at another time and place.”

With that Ah.Med left the chamber. Arenous was alone. He realized what he had accomplished. The Grand Council, the trader dukes and King Khaled could never have imagined this outcome to the Ottoman-Teke wars. Teke was no longer beneath the Ottomans; it was now major player in the Eastern Mediterranean.

 

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thats all

Well thats the end to this part of the AAR. I might get the second part out soon just going to be really busy. Though as for screenies I'm still trying to figure that one out because i'm not on my own computer when i post the AARs. Thanks for reading.

 

[killerdude11]

WOW

WOW

 

[Stuyvesant]

I must say, when I saw the start of this AAR, I did not think you'd be able to be so successful. A job well done!