Chronicles of the Lords of Corrino

[Chyll]

Being a record of the lives of the noble rulers and personages of the House of Corrino dwelling in origination from the region of Narbonne and Barcelona including important decrees, battles, conquests, raids, their births, marriages, and ultimate rewards between the years of 1066 and 1453.

PREPARER'S NOTES:
At present there are three known versions and one incomplete fragment of the "Chronicles of the Lords Corrino" (CLC) in existence, all of which vary in content and quality. This electronic edition compiled by Dr. David Gordon MA (Edin.), PhD (Cantab.), FRHistS and was funded by cooperative grant via the University of Béziers and represents a comprehensive attempt to gather and reconcile the readings from each of these different versions.

This is the third draft, revised and corrected, with additional proof corrections by Prof. Allan Knox BA, PhD (Lond.) FRHistS.

This document has elected to include notations of recognized interpretations or to call out alignment with other events outside the regions in direct coverage of the CLC. Please note they should not be treated as absolute, and care has been taken to indicate when the notes reflect specific analysis or views to limit conflict if those views are/become out of date as active scholarship continues. It is hoped that, at best, these notes will provide a starting point for additional inquiry and improved understanding of the events conveyed within the Chronicle for later researchers.


THE MANUSCRIPTS:
The known manuscript sources of the "Chronicles of the Lords Corrino" are the following:

A The Lords of Corrino (1066-1188, manuscript. University of Béziers)
Believed to be a direct transcription of an original (lost) Chronicles (covering the years 1066-1132), conducted at the Bishopric of Albi in County Narbonne. Common opinion is that it begins as a contemporary record from 1074 until it ends in 1188 during the French Conquest.

B The Lords of Corrino (1189-1453, manuscript. Musée National du Moyen Âge, Paris)
Believed to be a transcription of the A version of the Chronicles (covering the years 1066-1188, with some additions/alterations) conducted at the Bishopric of Albi picking up as a contemporary record from 1189 and continuing until 1453.

C The Table of Narbonne and Corrino (1208-1453, manuscript. University of Béziers)
A summary table and regnal list believed to be derived from the A version of the Chronicles, with some variance, conducted by the Bishopric of Sanctus Columbae, as a coronation gift from Bishop GUY to Emperor Frederick I in 1208, and then continually updated by order of the family going forward.

D The Corrino Restoration Fragment (1278, manuscript. National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh)
The Restoration Fragment is the most recently discovered item within the family of manuscripts comprising the Chronicles of the Lords Corrino, which discovery prompted the creation of this comprehensive reading of the Chronicles. Currently, the Restoration Fragment is believed to be a transcription of the either the original (lost) version of the Chronicle OR of the A version with some notable alterations, as well as a portion of the B Version. It appears to have been put forth at the Bishopric of Cuaxà in County Rosello. However, it only covers the years 1066-1278. It is unclear if any of the record was contemporary to the events recounted, though the nature of some of it’s distinctive variance to the other documents convincingly seems to indicate it was contemporary (or at least, rather, the original unidentified transcription source seems to have been). If it was contemporary, it is unclear why a second record was kept in addition to the A Version. At least one theory (Prof. Brett Roberts, NYU) has been submitted that this ‘D’ Version should really be considered as the ‘A’, and the other versions represent copies/updates from this one, though that has issues, as it does not reconcile the A and B version timelines.

There is, off course, The Annals of the House of Corrino (1338-1453, manuscript. Musée National du Moyen Âge, Paris), beginning in 1338 with the Uhtred’s usurpation of Frederick IV. This document attempted to recreate the Chronicle for Uhtred and those that came after, but it was erratically kept and tracks a branch of the family rather than the mainline with which we are specifically interested.

NOTATION:
The intent is to reference the A document as much as possible, but where variance exists, the
additional manuscripts will be called upon, certainly with a focus on aligning some of the new Fragment content within the larger and more recognized Chronicles. Reference to these will be done in a standard format represented in the following manner:

A 1072.10

Where the first letter indicates the specific document sourced for the item in question, the digits before the decimal indicate the year, and the digits after the decimal indicate the month (1-12). So in the example line we find an item from the A Version in October 1072.


PREAMBLE:
The Chronicles have been considered noteworthy for both providing a specific and targeted view of the early medieval social and political dynamics of southern France and northern Spain, and providing a personal and uniquely focused examination (unlike many chronicles and annals contemporary to this record) of a noble family and its affairs and activities as it rose to notable prominence within Western Europe. The discovery of an additional version of these chronicles - the new D Version - simply expands upon this early intimate viewpoint.

The appearance of the family of Corrino at Toulouse in 1066 is rather sudden in the historic period, with no previous mention or indication of Corrinos in regional politics or identified nobles in the area. There are certainly no family or place names that correspond or relate to ‘Corrino’ in any significant way. A leading hypothesis is that the Corrino family were displaced from within Hispania during the Moorish invasions and they settled in Toulouse. The family name certainly seems to have as much in favor of a match culturally and linguistically with Catalan as with Occitan. It also may aid in explaining the family’s initial power development and expansion focus southwards into Hispania.

According to Corrino family legend, however, there was a man of Scots Gaelic heritage in the court of Duke Guilhèm IV de Toulouse. This man, identified by varied names in different versions of the story, is most reliably considered to be known as Donald Currie and he somehow established a relationship with the Duke and became a trusted member of the court. There is no clear historical evidence supporting or disputing this family claim beyond a single, brief record of a Domnall Corwyn joining the roles of a mercenary force in Northumbria and departing for Hispania in 1041. It is as likely as any other option that this was the same person, though the name adapted to become ‘Corrino’ to fit better locally. Perhaps he remained on after the mercenary unit finished it’s service in the area or disbanded. It certainly explains various Scottish influences that appeared in the region from time to time. We choose to recognize and accept this theory as more than adequate in filling in the blanks and fitting the presented record.

Regardless, it is clear that however Donald came to be a courtier of the Duke, one Frederick Corrino, son of Donald, was named lord of Narbonne in 1066. And it is here, that the Chronicle begins...

===
===
(Player Notes - and commentary 'out of character' - will be highlighted in this fashion.)

I apologize from the start for a bad habit of forgetting to take screenshots often enough, particularly as I started.

There has been some minor save adjustments in the early years to change the names of a few children I could not touch in game, in keeping with the family Corrino. Not much later - once the game got them seeded into the family tree it did fine using them on it's own.

Corrino, yes, as a lark the entire process started from a personal commitment to play the next game with Shaddam and Irulan popping up. Nothing more, nothing less. I tried to start, initially, in Jimenez area to make the names work better. Let's say that game was still born due to assassins and a lack of fertility.

Table of Contents

Frederick
=
1066-1082
1082-1090
1090-1099
1100-1114

Salvador
=
1114-1122
1122-1132

Guilhèm
=
1132-1140
1141-1150
1151-1157

Shaddam
=
1157-1165

Guilhèm
=
1165-1174
Interlude
1174

Rogier 'The Conqueror'
=
1175-1185
1185-1192
Interlude
1192-1208

Frederick 'The Holy'
=
1208-1216
Sidebar
1217-1224
1225-1232

Frederick 'The Great'
=
1232-1242
1243-1253
1254-1264
1265-1278

Godfrey 'The Drunkard'
=
1278-1292

Uhtred
=
1292-1297

Godafres 'The Monk'
=
1297-1307
1308-1318

Frederick
=
1318-1319
1319-1335

Frederick
=
1335-1338
1338-1357
1358-1383

Frederick
=
1383-1395

Ugues
=
1395-1425


Ugues
=
1425-1430

Frederick 'The Wise'
=
1430-1441


Post Mortem


Full Reign Summaries (External links to Google Docs)

Frederick: 1066-1114
Salvador: 1114-1132
Guilhèm: 1132-1157
Shaddam: 1157-1165
Guilhèm: 1165-1174
Rogier: 1175-1208
Frederick: 1208-1232
Frederick: 1232-1278
Godfrey: 1278-1292
Uhtred: 1292-1297
Godafres: 1297-1318
Frederick: 1318-1335
Frederick: 1335-1383
Frederick: 1383-1395
Ugues: 1395-1425
Ugues: 1425-1430
Frederick: 1430-1441

Post Mortem

Regnal Lists and Tables of the Noble Houses of Corrino

 

[Chyll]

A 1066.9 Frederick Corrino, son of Donald, was granted rank and title to Narbonne by the Duke Guilhèm IV de Toulouse as officiated by Bishop Robèrt of Albi, and the new Count took as his bride Judith de Melgueil.



A1067.11 Irulan Corrino was born. The grateful Count held both a mass and a feast.

A1068.8 Count Raimon-Rogier of Carcasonne rebelled to claim Toulouse for his own. Frederick of Narbonne took the field with his own troops to defend the Duke.

A1069.1 Shaddam Corrino was born in Narbonne.

B1069.5 Carcasonne surrender to the Duke of Toulouse.

A1069.6 Duke Guilhèm of Toulouse declared war upon the Duke of Barcelona to secure Count Corrino’s claim upon the county of Rosello.
(note: perhaps sensing that Barcelona was embroiled in a holy war against the Skeikh of Larida, Toulouse took advantage of the opportunity to expand his realm. How Frederick was able to produce a realistic claim, given his history is unclear - and throws some doubt on the family story - but perhaps his chancellor was just talented.)

A1072.7 The Count of Rosello gave up his title to the Count Corrino of Narbonne under the orders of the Dukes of Barcelona, Toulouse, and the Doge of Genoa.
(note: Genoa had declared as ally to Barcelona in the Rosello claim war, their army was arriving to secure the defense when Barcelona surrendered.)

A1072.9 Raimond de Toulouse was banished by the Duke of Toulouse.

A1072.11 King Phillippe of France called up his levies to join in war to reclaim Normandy, which was rightfully his.


1073.7 Chalice, Count Frederick Corrino’s 3e daughter, was born
(note: no mention in the Chronicles exists for the birth notification of Muriel, Frederick’s second daughter. Why this may be is unclear.)

A1074.10 King Phillippe of France passed. Long Live King Henri II!

1074.11 Salvador Corrino is born in Narbonne

1074.12 Irulan left for Carcasonne for tutelage under the Countess Ermengarda. Bishop Robèrt of Albi, in his role as Chancellor for Count Corrino, presented evidence that Narbonne held claim to Empuries in Barcelona.

A1075.1 At the passing of the Bishop of Cuixà in Rosello, Bishop Richard took his position, and was made Court Chaplain by Count Frederick.

A1075.2 Shaddam Corrino was summoned to Toulouse by the Duke to receive a proper Occitan education by Uges de Toulouse, brother to the Duke.

A1076.7 Duke Geoffrey III of Anjou ignited civil war to force the young King Henri to institute elective succession for the throne of France. Aquitaine joined the rebellion, while Toulouse stood with the King.


A1077.1 Orenna Corrino was born, the 4e daughter of the Count of Narbonne.

A1078.1 A grand feast was held in Toulouse which Count Frederick, his wife, and his council attended for the glory of Narbonne.
(note: Toulouse may have stood with France in the civil war, but the occasion of this feast makes it clear that nobles and soldiers of Toulouse were notably not active participants.)

A1078.7 Count Frederick had occasion to install a falconry roost at Narbonne, and made sure to invite his court to admire it.


(note: A hobby picked up during his visit to Toulouse some months earlier?)

A1079.1 Duke Guilhèm requested that Count Raimond de Melgueil relinquish his title, and upon his refusal armies were sent into the field.
(note: the D Version alludes to mutterings and fears, as this was two counties at odds with the Duke, and hopefully Narbonne would stay free of the Duke’s attention.)

B1079.2 Frederick Corrino was made Steward for Duke Guilhèm

A1079.5 A Miracle Play was held at Albi under the leadership of Bishop Robèrt and the pious financing of Count Corrino.

A1079.8 The terrible revolt against the Liege Lord of France, King Henri II, was ended with blessed victory for Henri.

A1079.8 In recognition of the value of Cuixà to church and Lord Frederick, Muriel Corrino was sent to study with Bishop Richard.

A1079.9 Chalice Corrino was assigned to be tutored by Guilhèm d’Agde, trusted confidant and Spymaster on the Council of Count Frederick.

1079.12 Bishop Robèrt of Albi, as Chancellor for Count Corrino and continually fearful that the Islamists would capture Barcelona, presented evidence that Narbonne held claim to Urgell in the Duchy of Barcelona.

A1080.1 King Henri II of France served his faithful duty and joined Barcelona in defense against a Dhunnunid Holy War. Inspired by his Lord King, Count Frederick called forth his men-at-arms and set out ahead of the allies, hoping to gain glory for God.
(note: The B Version adds that the Republics of Genoa and Venice also joined to Barcelona’s cause.)

A1080.6 The army of Narbonne was beaten in the field at Lleida.
(note: this brief comment hardly does justice to the complete rout of the Narbonne military at the Battle of Lleida. The few survivors scattered and made their way home individually, not to return to the field in this war.)

A1080.9 Pèire de Megueil surrendered his county to the Duke of Toulouse.

(Player’s Note: how the realms stood in NE Hispania in 1081.4.)


A1081.8 The peasants of Narbonne rose up against their lawful lord and laid siege to the castle. Bishop Robèrt ordered extra prayers for deliverance.

A1081.11 Forces of Duke Guilhèm arrived at Narbonne, where Frederick sallied to join them on the field and quelled the ungrateful masses.

A1082.8 Prince Phillippe I of Champagne called on the Lords of France to support the claim of Prince Hugue over King Henri for France, and began a civil war. Duke Guilhèm rose, and joined the cause against “...that boy King”.

(note: The D version adds that Count Frederick kept his troops to guard and preserve his castles and lands, and responded to a gang of robbers with conviction.)

 

[Chyll]

D1083.7 Count Frederick Corrino was taken with typhoid. The men of the Bishops undertook daily prayers for this health and safety in the Hands of the Almighty.



A1083.10 Quentin Corrino was born, and Irulan was wed matrilineally to David Kamateros.


A1083.12 Muriel Corrino second daughter of Frederick, Count of Narbonne, was betrothed to King Henri II of France.
(Note: a clear break in politics between the rebellious Duke of Toulouse and his Count of Narbonne?)

D1084.3 After glorious intercession from the Almighty, Count Frederick was fully recovered from his illness.

A1084.4 The doomed revolt against the rightful liege Henri II, King of France, was defeated. Duke Guilhèm of Toulouse was imprisoned. Frederick, Count of Narbonne was declared Ducal Regent. Salvador Corrino was betrothed to Adèla de Toulouse, daughter of the Duke Guilhèm.
(note: A fortuitous month for House Corrino indeed.)

A1084.7 Sadness and prayers for faith and understanding as the young noble, Shaddam Corrino was taken from this world in pneumonic fit.

D1084.8 Gripped in sadness, Count Frederick reluctantly allows his second son, and now heir, Salvador to travel to Carcasonne and tutor under Countess Ermengarda.
(Note: the A and B versions both simply state “Count Frederick sent his second son, and now heir, Salvador to Carcasonne to tutor with Countess Ermengarda”.)

D1084.2 Caterina de Narbonne born of Anna Ják, bride to Aimeric in the Court of Narbonne. Whispers and words from Legion link Frederick to this event.
(note: one of the more fascinating D Version discoveries, and it shines considerable light on later events. Legion believed to be reference to demons - Mark 5:9 and Luke 8:30)

A1085.1 Frederick Corrino born of Irulan and David Kamateros.
(note: indications are that this was neither the first, nor the last grandchild of Count Frederick but was noteworthy for chronicler seemingly due to the prestige associated with a namesake.)

A1085.5 Glory to God! Bishop Robèrt delivered word to Count Frederick today that Barcelona was saved from the heathen attack of the Dhunnunid and the war ended.
(Note: the B version omits this record.)

D1085.12 The Bishop called for a special mass to dwell on guidance, peace, and patience after an altercation in the Castle of Narbonne between Count Frederick and Aimeric de Narbonne.

(Note: witnessed, noticed, and unremarked in the A or B versions.)

A1086.7 A son, Jules, was born of Anna Ják. Count Frederick acknowledged and legitimized the son as his own.
(Note: the B Version adds “ - bravely taking account of his weakness before God and men”. Given earlier D Version revelations regarding the relationship between Anna and Frederick, it is clear that the affair was sustained for some time longer than previously believed.)

A1086.9 King Henri II declared France to be at war with Norway and King Harald V over claims and rights to Normandy.

(Note: no record is included in this Chronicle of the end of the previous war for Normandy, but other records clearly show us France had lost. No further mention of this conflict appears later, either, though we know France ultimately captures Normandy during the reign of Henri II.)

A1086.10 Orenna Corrino was sent to study with Count Frederick’s friend and aide, Guilhèm d’Agde.

D1087.1 A great feast was occasioned by the arrival of a group of passing hedge knights. The Count graciously allowed them to stay longer and rest following some injuries in their impromptu tournament.

(Note: academically an important entry as we shall see.)

A1087.10 Word arrived that Castle Barcelona had fallen to heathens in fire and blood in a new Hammadid Holy War for Barcelona.Bishop Robèrt held a series of masses for deliverance from the unclean, and for a hero to deliver His Servants from suffering.

A1087.11 Amidst much glory and celebration Muriel Corrino wed King Henri II of France.

A1087.12 Men-at-arms of the Count Frederick rushed into the city of of Béziers to arrest Mayor Orson. The charge was plotting to kill the Count’s daughter, Orenna.
(Note: The D Version adds “The men of the church gathered to pray. When word came to call out the soldiers as Orson was in revolt, Bishop Robèrt declined to muster and continued to pray for peace.”)

D1088.2 While Béziers lay to siege, Frederick held a great ball and paid unseemly attention to Anna.


A1088.5 Béziers fell to Count Frederick. Mayor Orson was imprisoned.
(Note: The D version includes the addition “...but in his anger was unable to revoke the mayoral title by laws of his Highness the King.”)

A1088.8 Duke Guilhèm IV de Toulouse, still being imprisoned of King Henri II, was taken to his reward. Long live Duke Pons-Guilhèm II!

A1089.3 Hedge knights again visited Narbonne, and a great feast was occasioned. Again the Count showed great Christian heart and allowed them to stay longer and rest following some injuries in an impromptu tournament.
(Note: the earlier omission revealed in the D Version helps clarify this entry greatly. Many scholars had previously believed this to refer to a visit prior to Frederick’s arrival on the scene.)

A1089.6 The Barony of Osona was invested by the Hammadid in Barcelona
(note: many other locations must have fallen in this period as well. It is unclear why specific actions in Barcelona are called out over others. A theory with merit was put forth (Prof. Simmons, Boston University) that perhaps news from the regions ceased when the main Barony fell, and the enemy spread throughout the county.)

A1089.7 Chalice Corrino was joined in matrilineal marriage to Tryggve Magnusson Yngling, a Prince of England.


A1089.9 Count Frederick told Bishop Robèrt that he had served long and well as his Chancellor, above and beyond the call of a faithful Bishop of God, and named Tryggve Magnusson as Chancellor for Narbonne.

A1089.12 Chancellor Tryggve completed the Bishop’s work to achieve a claim upon the Duchy of Barcelona.

 

[Chyll]

I found that playing at a slower speed than I normally do, and carefully watching the messages got me more interested in the goings on of the bishops and mayors and courtiers than I normally get.
I haven't included everything, obviously, as it wouldn't fit within the flavor of the chronicle, but the game 'came alive' in a fresh way for me.

Screenshot inclusion should increase from this point.

I hope it is enjoyable, and feedback is welcome.

 

[Chyll]

Not sure how much interest was piqued with the initial posts. The game has played for considerably more time. I have much of the posts written, just need screen captures lined up, so updates should come fairly soon.

I have them in my Google Drive, at the moment, in individual documents per reign.

 

[mike the knight]

I always like seeing French games ! Especially Toulouse is a very interesting Duchy ! What about a Cathar future ? Maybe it would be betetr if you could upload larger images. :blush:

 

[Chyll]

I always like seeing French games ! Especially Toulouse is a very interesting Duchy ! What about a Cathar future ?

As to heresy... the church remains very strong for a while, so I do not see that happening. But who knows.
When I get some more time I'll sit down and load up the next few sections.

Maybe it would be betetr if you could upload larger images. :blush:

I'm only seeing the ability to load the thumbnails, that expanded as you click on them.

 

[mike the knight]

Ok so stay focused and strike hard when the opportunity arises ! What site do you use to upload ?

 

[Chyll]

Ok so stay focused and strike hard when the opportunity arises ! What site do you use to upload ?

I wasn't, and you asking the question sorted out my issue. The thumbnails are just the in forum feature.

I'll target the weekend to sit down and go through things.

Thanks for the interest.

 

[Chyll]

A1090.1 A Crusade for Jerusalem was declared by His Holiness Pope Romanus II. God willing, all of his flock in Europe will heed his call and drive the heathen from the Holy Land.

A1090.6 Orson of Béziers, still in the dungeon of Count Frederick these years, was banished and his title laid claim by the Count. Guilhèm d’Agde was rewarded for his service by being entrusted with the role of Mayor of Béziers by Count Frederick.
(Note: The D Version also included the line “Aimeric de Narbonne requested service as Marshall of Narbonne, and was angrily rejected by the Count.”)



A1090.11 The burghers of Béziers, perhaps thinking to gain advantage from the Count’s good will towards his friend, sent Guilhèm d’Agde to plead for a lowering of taxes. Such was not to be. The Duchy of Barcelona fell, and became the domain of the wicked Muslims.

A1090.12 Salvador Corrino was wed to Adèla de Toulouse before God at the Bishopric of Albi.

A1091.1 It was reported that Count Frederick held many meetings and conclaves with the Countess of Carcasonne in December and January. Salvador Corrino was made Spymaster, and Bishop Robèrt reluctantly took the task of Marshal for the Count, after much prayer and a fast.

A1091.2 Countess Carcasonne declared revolt against Duke Pons-Guilhèm II to install Ugues de Toulouse on the ducal throne. Frederick of Narbonne joined her in revolt!

(Note: A cryptic D Version addition was “All the servants of the Bishopric sent extra prayers for Justice and Rightness.” The exact political bent of this comment is undetermined.)

A1091.4 The army of Narbonne was caught by a ducal force and defeated at Saissac. Word is received that Robèrt, Bishop of Albi, was captured and imprisoned by the Duke at the battle. All the brothers pray for his safe release.

A1091.4 Count Frederick hired the mercenary Catalan Band to join his weakened forces, while armies of the Countess continue their siege in Toulouse.

D1091.5 Count Frederick, attempting to link up with the Catalan Band, was caught in the open and defeated at Foix.

A1091.8 Forces of Narbonne, with the Catalan Band, won a battle at Alet. Count Frederick was grievously injured and reports came on that he was taken ill with fever from the wound. Regardless, he moved on to lay the Castle of Foix under siege. The Castle of Toulouse fell to the Countess.

A1091.11 War came into the House of God as the Bishopric of Lavaur is reported fallen to the Countess. Bishop Richard of Cuixà was taken to his reward after an illness. Bishop Godefrey was raised in his place to do God’s work in Rosello, and made Court Chaplain for Count Frederick.

A1092.1 Praise the Lord. Count Frederick is reported healed of his illness.

A1092.2 Bishop Godefrey took on the role of tutor and guardian to Quentin Corrino.

A1092.4 The siege of Foix continued, and Count Frederick ordered the troops to storm the walls. It was a grievous battle, but it was a victory for House Corrino. The Count sent the Catalan Band away after the siege. Salvador Corrino was replaced on the Council.
(Note: specifics are sparse, but other source indicate it appears that the treasury may have been running low, and Count Frederick gambled he could win an end to the siege and safely terminate his mercenary contract. What is known is the mercenaries left peaceably, and the soldiers of Narbonne returned home and fought no more in this war. None of the versions identify why Salvador was replaced or by whom.)

A1092.8 Chancellor Tryggve of Narbonne delivered to Count Frederick documents of a clear claim to the County of Foix.
(Note: anger at having to face Foix in the field? Greater aspirations within Toulouse?)


A1092.9 May the Lord shine his merciful light upon Narbonne. Countess Judith de Melgueil was seized and thrown into the dungeon. The Count was told that she was plotting to kill Anna Ják by his Spymaster.

(note: without some of the D Version additions, the previous record of 1092.9 was confusingly open to interpretation.)

A1092.11 Long Live Ugues I, Duke of Toulouse. Frederick Corrino, Count of Narbonne, was made Chancellor for Toulouse.

(note: Pons-Guilhèm was usurped by the revolt, and the duchy passed to his uncle. Frederick was clearly rewarded for his efforts.)


D1093.8 Poachers were dealt with severely by the Count, and many wondered at his lack of mercy.

A1093.12 Jules Corrino was sent to study with Ugues, Duke of Toulouse.
(Note: an honor, and a way to strengthen bonds between the Duke and his Count.)



D1094.6 Count Frederick was cleared in review by his liege Duke Ugues of inappropriate accusations leveled by Baron Folquet, of Castle Castelnaudary regarding conduct by our revered Count towards the Baron’s wife.

(Note: The D version continues to present a much more intimate picture of the personal Duke Frederick.)

A1095.1 Dispute arose between the Duke and Count Frederick of Narbonne regarding the planned nuptials of Orenna Corrino and Ugues’s son Péire-Arnault. The Duke demanded a regular marriage, and the Count refused to relinquish past pledges.
(Player Note: Many years ago a matrilineal marriage betrothal was agreed. Now Ugues was Duke, and Péire-Arnault was his only child and heir. I really struggled with refusing the Duke’s offer to change the marriage, but held firm stubbornly and without a real reason or concept of how to sort it out.)

A1095.4 Duke Loui I of Gascogne usurped the Duchy of Aquitaine from Clemència de Poitou.
(Players Note: A growing French superduke? And with the possibility to form Aquitaine...)

A1095.10 Ugues de Toulouse abdicated and passed the Duchy of Toulouse to Adèla de Toulouse, daughter of Guilhèm and wife to Salvador Corrino. Frederick was made Steward for the Duchess and named High Almoner.
(Note: the Chronicle does not say, but Countess Filipa of Foix is known to have formed a political faction which ultimately presented a demand to Ugues. He stepped down rather than fight. It is unclear whether Frederick was part of the faction, but it is clear that he benefited greatly as this put his grandson to inherit the realm of Toulouse, Narbonne, and Rosello.)
(Player’s Note: Frederick didn’t even realize there was a faction to remove Ugues, let alone one to give the duchy to Adèla - and hence to me.)

A1095.11 Orenna Corrino matrilineally wed to Péire-Arnault, son of Ugues de Toulouse, at the Bishop of Albi in a worthy mass. Péire-Arnault named Marshall of Narbonne thereafter.
(Note: no longer serving as the Duke, Ugues’s reluctance to allow the wedding to proceed was clearly removed.)
(Player’s Note: sometimes you get lucky.)

D1096.3 Frederick Corrino heard to complain at court that a faction was attempting to advocate Ugues’ return to the Duchy.
(Player’s Note: paying more attention to faction activity... and darn it, I just got set up to inherit this.)

A1096.3 Jules Corrino sent to study with the venerable Bishop Robèrt here at Albi.

A1096.4 Count Bernat-Aton of Rouerge declared war for Ugues’s claim for the Duchy of Toulouse. Count Frederick marshalled his forces and marched for the Duchess and his son.

A1096.5 Count Raimond-Bernat of Carcasonne took the the field against the Duchess and marched on Narbonne, but turned back at the majesty of Frederick’s force. Our Count gave pursuit.

A1096.6 Word has arrived that Jerusalem remains in the hands of the wretched Muslim, and the Crusade has failed. Soldiers of Narbonne won the field at Alet against Carcasonne, and laid siege to the castle.

A1097.6 The Chancellor duly presented to the Count documents and letters proving that Narbonne held rightful claim to the County of Carcasonne.
(Note: further sign of Frederick’s ambition? Preparation to more fully secure his family’s growing hold upon the duchy? Simply anger at having to fight Carcasonne?)

A1097.8 The revolt against Duchess Adèla ended, with the rebellious counts imprisoned.
(Note: the D Version adds “... though the Count of Carcasonne was released again within days.”)

A1098.1 After extended conference with his Steward and Marshal, Count Frederick openly declared his claim on the County of Foix and ordered his soldiers to bring him the lands and properties accordingly.

A1098.2 Foix called upon allies to defend against the claims of Narbonne - the weakened Carcasonne and Rouergue.

A1098.3 Narbonne won victory defending at Cotlliure.

A1098.4 Foix was brought under siege by the soldiers of Count Frederick.

A1098.11 Mayor Guilhèm d’Adge of Beziers, friend to the Count, was again named Spymaster of Narbonne.

A1098.12 A Miracle Play was held at Albi under the leadership of Bishop Robèrt and the pious Count Corrino of Narbonne again supplied financing. It was a wonder and inspiration. Foix fell to the siege of Narbonne’s soldiers.

A1099.5 The Bishopric of St. Gaudens fell to the siege of Narbonne’s soldiers.
(Note: the D Version adds that “Count Frederick released the mercenaries.” No other version mentions mercenaries, who they were, or how they served in the fighting, but presumably they were only a drain on the treasury at this point in the campaign.)

A1099.6 Judith de Melgueil, Countess of Narbonne by holy matrimony to the Count Frederick Corrino of Narbonne perished
(Note: the D Version includes “...in the dungeon of the Count.” at the end of this note, making it clear that she was never released from prison, and closing a relationship of sadness for her.)

A1099.7 Frederick took Markia Bryennious, a Greek from Cibyrrhaeot to bride in a small ceremony at Cuixà.

A1099.8 Mirepoix fell to Narbonne, and Count Frederick usurped the County of Foix as his own.

 

[mike the knight]

Oo I like so much French court intrigue At one point I was afraid that you could end up in prison but as it seems you supported the right side

 

[Chyll]

Oo I like so much French court intrigue At one point I was afraid that you could end up in prison but as it seems you supported the right side

I was also concerned at first, but you have to risk to gain, and it worked out well (heck, better than I imagined it could).

I always enjoy the early game, so few family members, each Mayor and Bishop of heightened importance, and a single Duke can be of earthshattering importance.



I will try to keep the posts at 10 year chunks - just need to sort out the pictures properly for the next few collections.

 

[Chyll]

A1100.6 Guilhèm d’Adge, Mayor of Beziers, left this world at age 67. His son Uilliam inherited the city, and the funeral mass was fitting for such a friend and confident of the Count of Narbonne, Rosello, and Foix. Mayor Bertrand of Cotlliure named as Spymaster.

B1100.10 Mayor Bertrand of Cotlliure, Spymaster of Count Frederick, passed and was replaced as Spymaster by Arnaut, Bishop of St. Gaudens of Foix.

A1100.12 In a quiet ceremony at St. Gaudens Quentin Corrino was wed to Catrionna de Narbonne.
(Note: the marriage of Frederick’s son to his rumored illegitimate daughter is troubling, and may explain why the ceremony was ‘quiet’. Though why it was allowed to proceed is unclear.)

A1101.2 Frederick Corrino, grandson to the Count of Narbonne was wed to Princess Ermesinda Sanchez Jimena of Aragon.
(Note: The B Version adds “The mass at Cuixà was followed by a tour to Aragon by the newlyweds.“ Is this marriage more evidence of Count Frederick’s ambitions to the south and Barcelona?)

A1101.4 King Henri II of France died comatose in his bed. Long live King Henri III!
(Note: what brought Henri II down at the age of 32 has been studied elsewhere, but it is important for the Corrino’s as Henri III was Frederick’s grandson.)

D1101.6 The peasants in Foix revolted, and Frederick’s troops routed the hooligans in August of that same year.

A1101.10 Frederick openly declared his ambition to claim Barcelona for Corrino and free it from the Muslims through force, calling on his rightful claims to the counties and duchy. His ally Count Alias of Périgod came to his call, and the Swiss Band was hired.

A1101.11 Pope Romanus II passed on to his heavenly reward. Pope Marcellus II was raised in his place.

A1101.12 Forces of Narbonne laid Empuries under siege.

A1102.2 King Henri III declared a Holy War for Barcelona.
(Players Note:eep. yay. eep. I was trying to figure out how to get the King to support me, expecting trouble from the far larger Hammadid Emir, but not sure I wanted him sweeping it all away.)[/COLOR]

A1102.6 Castle Empuries fell to Narbonne.

A1102.7 Jules Corrino betrothed to Ada Dunbar of Galloway.

A1102.8 The City of Girona, in Empuries County, fell to Narbonne.

A1102.10 Cerdanya fell in siege to Narbonne in Empuries County.
(Note: the chronicler was clearly in error here. The final siege in Empuries was completed by the forces of France, which invested then castle. The lords of Narbonne inadvertently pulled up stakes and moved on to other provinces too soon and ceded the claim to France.)

A1103.3 Barcelona fell to France, Urgell fell to Narbonne. The Swiss band won a clash at Empuries with Hammadid forces that sought to invade the province.

A1103.4 Robbers roamed Rosello, while Islamist forces that fled there from Empuries were chased and routed back towards Barcelona by the Swiss Band. Pallars, in Urgell, fell in siege to Narbonne.

A1103.7 Bertand was named to Bishop of Albi as Bishop Robèrt passed from this world at the age of 75.

A1103.8 Jules Corrino and Ada Dunbar were wed, adding light and happiness again to Albi Chapel. Wilayh fell to France in siege.
(Note: this appears to note the fall of the final holding at Urgell, conveyed unclearly in the telling by our chronicler.)

A1104.5 A combined French and Narbonne army win the field at Empuries.
(Note: A long period of inactivity in the war is broken, it also seems to have ended the French campaign. The contract with the Swiss Band was seemingly ended sometime in this period.)

A1104.6 The Hammadid surrender to France, ceding to Henri III the county of Barcelona and the Barons Cerdanya at Empuries and Puigcerdà at Urgell.
(Player’s Note: the territories held by Narbonne were left at dispute, and the resolution of the war percentage was trapped -16% - in limbo thanks to the French King’s interference. I didn’t have enough boats to get the mercs to Africa. I tried an expedition of my levies, but couldn’t position a real siege and was chased back to the boats by superior forces.)

A1104.8 Bishop Bertrand of Albi named to serve as Court Chaplain and provide spiritual guidance to Count Frederick.

A1105.3 Hammadid tried to invade Empuries - a determined and stubborn victory was given to Narbonne by the grace of God. The Muslims were chased to Rosello and defeated again.
(Note: it is known that Frederick then sent to the troops home to rest and regroup.)

A1105.7 The Irish Band was hired by Count Frederick, but peculiarly sent marching off into Hispania.
(Player’s Note: a gamble. Estimated I had saved enough to march them around to Hammadid lands - not enough boats! - and force victory points in Africa.)

A1105.10 Frederick the Younger named Steward and David Kamateros made Marshal for Count Frederick of Narbonne.
(Note: Frederick’s grandson was clearly active in the court.)

A1101.11 Count Frederick of Narbonne openly declared his claims to Carcasonne and raised his levies to against the young Count Hélie.
(Note: Hélie was 14 at this time.)

A1105.12 Narvone won the field at Alet and laid siege upon Carcasonne.

A1106.2 The righteous Bishop Arnaut passed away, and Bishop Adrien has been named his replacement at St. Gaudens.

A1106.3 The Count of la Marche joined Carcasonne in defense against Narbonne, and his troops joined the remaining soldiers of Carcasonne in a weak siege of Foix.

A1106.5 Carcasonne fell to Narbonne in siege.

A1106.9 Saissac fell to Narbonne in siege, the violence was ended and Carcasonne passed to the control of Count Frederick Corrino. The Irish Band was known to have arrived at the province of Al Djazair in North Africa, and laid siege.
(Note: a truly heroic march of paid Christian mercenaries through Islamic territories to reach their destination!.)
(Player’s Note: while not a lot, the cash from the sieges in Carcasonne helped extend the budget to pay the mercs. Levies loaded up on boats and were sent to join the mercs.)

A1107.6 King Henri III declared the 2e Holy War for Barcelona on Duke Yusuf II of Aragon. Algiers fell to Narbonne’s siege.

A1107.9 Tipasa fell to Narbonne in siege.

A1108.1 Chiffa fell to Narbonne in siege.

B1108.3 Leto Corrino, son of Salvador Duke of Toulouse and heir to Frederick, married Alfhild Matsdotter Bååt.

A1108.4 Narbonne won the field at Sidi-Akacha against forces of the Hammadid Emir.

A1108.5 Pope Marcellus II excommunicated King Henri III of France at the request of Duke Phillippe I of Champagne.
(Note: peculiar that the holy warring King could not stay on the good side of the Pope.)

A1108.6 Sidi-Akacha fell in siege to Narbonne. All of Al Djazuir held was conquered. The Irish Band’s contract was terminated.
(Player’s Note: no cash. war score only at 39%. Damn the king.)

A1108.8.8 Duke Yusuf II surrendered to King Henri III - God’s will in the Holy War.

A1108.9 Magnus Corrino, grandson to Count Frederick, married Princess of Aragon Tegridia Ramirez Jimena.

A1109.3 Narbonne laid siege at Tubirett in Ouled Nail.
(Player’s Note: picture 600ish Narbonnese soldiers wandering North Africa looking for anywhere they could grab some victory points. Mercifully unmolested, as it turns out the Emir is embroiled in a couple of other wars.)

D1109.4 The burghers of Beziers sent Mayor Uilliam to request a reduction in taxes, which was rebuffed carefully.

A1109.6 Emir Mustafa of the Hammadid called upon Emir Muyahid II of the Amirid to aid his resistance against Narbonne.
(Player’s Note: great.)

A1109.8 King Henri III of France continued to fulfil God’s will and declared Holy War for Murcia.

A1109.11 Bishop Bertain died of leprosy, Ubert elevated to the Bishopric of Albi by nomination of Count Frederick. Bernard de Narbonne, a courtier, was made Court Chaplain.

A1110.3 Tubirett fell to Narbonne’s siege.

A 1110.4 The province of Murcia was captured for France in a victories holy war.

A1110.8 M’Sila fell to Narbonne in siege.

A1110.10 The Catalan Band was hired by Count Frederick and ordered to repeat the feat of the Irish Band and march to North Africa.
(Player’s Note: cash restored enough.. maybe... trying to get the Emir’s capital.)

A1110.12 French 2e Holy War for Murcia declared by King Henri III.

A1111.2 Sidi Heg, and all of Ouled Nail fall to Narbonne.
(Player’s Note: war score at 52%... such a long fight.)

A1111.3 The Emir of the Hammadid surrendered to Narbonne! Frederick Corrino is Duke of Barcelona and Count of Narbonne, Rosello, Empuries, and Urgell. Frederick Corrino the Younger was named Count of Foix. Magnus Corrino was named Count of Carcasonne. The new Duke rashly raised the Church taxes.

(Player’s Note: never did see an Amirid soldier. heh.)

A1111.5 To celebrate the return of the brave soldiers from Africa, Duke Frederick declared a summer fair.
(Note: the B version adds “Magnus Corrino, Count of Carcasonne, was named Spymaster for the Duke.”)

B1111.9 David Kamateros wounded training soldiers in Narbonne.

A1111.12 King Henri III of France transferred the vassalage rights of Mayor Payen of Cerdanya in Empuries to Duke Frederick of Barcelona.

A1112.7 Nizmaddin, Mayor of Pallars in Urgell, took the eucharist, forsaking his Islamist past as he joined the flock of the Almighty. Duke Frederick rewarded his Faith with the role of Spymaster.

D1112.10 Duchess Markia confronted Frederick about Anna Ják in the halls of the castle, in front of several servants. The Duke conceded that he should set aside such things. Some weeks later it was announced that Markia was with child.

(Note: A fascinating exchange in the D Version, and closure to the Anna-Frederick relationship from a direct confrontation by the young Markia. If only Judith had tried such a tactic...)

A1113.1 Pro Fide, Pro Utilitate Hominum. Pope Marcellus II issued a bull forming an order of warrior clerics, the Knights of St. John.

A1113.5 Vutier Corrino, grandson of Duke Frederick, wed Princess of France Éléonore Capet. Fondil Corrino was born of Markia, 5e son of the Duke.

D1113.12 Servants brought rumor to the Bishop today of the Duke again straying from his Lady Wife. The Bishop counselled silence upon us and ordered prayer.

(Note: this is further concerning regarding Frederick, as a scribbled note on the side of the document may in fact be “Catrionna?”)

B1114.6 France’s succession converted to elective. Duke Frederick displeased that though a Duke, his rights are not sufficient in France to vote, as his ducal title to Barcelona is de jure of the Kingdom of Aragon.

A1114.8 King Henri III of France victorious in the 2e Holy War for Murcia.
(Player’s Note: I discovered that the King had given Barcelona and Larida - de jure my territory - to some count. However, de jure crown law of the Kingdom of Aragon prevented action to for vassalization. Gah!)

A1114.9 Frederick Corrino was born of Quentin and Catrionna. The Duke of Flanders declared the 2e Flemish Independence War against King Henri III of France.

(Note: Quentin and Catrionna wed for years without children. A rumor involving the Duke, and then a child. Ironically named Frederick - an unidentified illegitimate son with his unidentified illegitimate daughter? A titillating rumor forever unknown...)
(Player’s Note: I couldn’t have scripted this if I wanted to... the game even randomly named the child Frederick.)

C1114.10 On the 16e of the month, Duke Frederick Corrino of Barcelona and Count of Narbonne, Empuries, and Urgell departed this life at the age of 65 after ruling for 48 years.
(Note: the A Version tells us “Duke Salvador I promptly took control and brought order to the grieving household and realm. A week of masses was prepared in honor of the passing of Duke Frederick of Barcelona. Long Live Duke Salvador I!”)

INTERLUDE:

So, who was Frederick Corrino? Until now he was seen as an ambitious determined man who aggressively made his place in the world. Little with that conclusion can be faulted, however it does now seem incomplete. He was Scots Gaelic, far from home surrounded by nobles and lowborn who saw him as a foreigner interfering in their affairs. His refusal to adopt local culture could only have heightened that reception by those around him, even as he allowed his children to assimilate as his own father did not let him.

 

[mike the knight]

Smell of Illegitimacy is around ...I liked the part of desert walking to claim Barcelona

 

[Chyll]

Smell of Illegitimacy is around...

Indeed. That whole sequence at the end of the reign had me literally laughing out loud.

I liked the part of desert walking to claim Barcelona

Yeah, I had no idea what to do at that point and... well, the gamble paid off.

The later years of Duke Frederick were a ton of fun, some of the best I've had playing the game.

 

[Chyll]

Salvador I

Duke Salvador at the time of his ascension had not the skills of his father, suffered poor relations with King and it seems that his wife hated him. He even, apparently, had poor relations with his father - to the extent he was plotting Frederick’s murder to inherit sooner.

(For a more complete review of these topics: Rachel Arran, Personality Failings: A Study of Medieval Rulers (Cambridge, 1993), 123, 127-32, and 145.) What all was driving the issues in these relationships are unclear. Certainly Barcelona held two counties that were de jure Toulouse, and while her children stood to inherit that certainly does not rule out conflict on that score with Adèla. He was known to be deceitful and craven, which certainly would not recommend his character to his peers and nobles, further adding difficulties as he took leadership.

The initial issue before him was how to manage the holding - if he were to continue aggressive expansion would it be south into Hispania? Was there opportunity north into France? How stable was the realm that his strong father had built - perhaps quietly consolidate? It was an uncertain time for him as his reign began.


As for his family - his children, five sons and no daughters, were a mixed lot.

The eldest Guilhèm stood to inherit two duchies, with no small amount of diplomatic skill but lacking in subtlety.

Next was wily and subtle Salvador, who lacked diplomacy or bravery.

Then handsome Raphael, certainly more talented than his elder brothers, but gripped with ‘possession’ and seemingly unsound for a role in the duchies.

And, next, Roderick. Easily a shame that he was not the eldest. A bold warrior, with skills to manage the stewardship of the realm.

And finally, young Xavier still in his minority but another promising warrior talent.

And so, the reign of Duke Salvador begins....

 

[Chyll]

A1114.10 Duke Salvator declared Holy War for Aragon upon Duke Yusuf II, and called all his allies to his banner to the Glory of God. His Lady Wife the Duchess of Toulouse, Count Raoul of Thouars, Duke Geoffrey V of Anjou, and Duke Arnaut I for Berry all agreed to send aid. Chancellor Bishop Ubert of Albi departed for Alto Aragon and the scriptorum at the Bishopric of Barbastro.

A1114.11 Yusuf II called Prince Tumin of the Zirid to his defense.

A1114.12 Emir Abdallah I of Granada joined the defense of Yusuf.

A1115.3 A great clash of arms was held at Cervera in Lleida. Two hosts of Muhammadin were defeated by Barcelona, Praise Be, with timely reinforcement from Thouars as they marched towards the enemy. The routed foe were pursued into Albarracin.

A1115.4 God has granted the soldiers of Barcelona another victory, this one at Hijar, and a siege was laid upon Albarracin.

A1115.5 In his wisdom, Pope Marcellus II lifted the excommunication of His Servant King Henri II.

A1115.8 Weak before God’s armies, Duke Yusuf II called Emir Muyahid II of the Amirid to his defense. David Kamateros was sent to clear robbers from the vicinity of Rosello and make the roads safe for travelers.

A1116.2 Albarracin was captured by Narbonne’s siege.
(Note: the D Version adds “Count Frederick of Foix is known to advocate that Quentin be named Duke.”)

A1116.4 Duke Salvator hired the Breton Band - they were given orders to clear Islamist raiders that were troubling the lands of the Duke.
(Note: The D Version included “Anna Ják passed away bedridden and infirm at 68.”)
(Player’s Note: Castille was also in a holy war for Yusuf’s territory, and there were many small armies of Muslims moving about the region disrupting things.)

A1116.6 Tereul was captured by the siege of Narbonne in Albarracin. Smallpox is spreading amongst the peasants and the nobility in Narbonne, including the ruling family and the Duke. We pray for deliverance from this malady.

A1116.7 David Kamateros perished of smallpox. Prince Tryvvge named Marshal.

A1116.8 The defenders of Hijar surrender to the siege of Narbonne.

D1116.8 It was revealed that Duke Salvador was plotting the death of Quentin. We pray for intercession for peace in the ruling family.

B1116.9 Quentin Corrino beseeched the Duke formally for land and title, but he was turned away by Salvador. Praise the Lord, Albaraccin has been captured as the last siege at Calamocha has ended. Yusuf surrendered his lands not held in arms by the King of Castille, and their titles, to Duke Salvador. Bernat-Berenguié de Narbonne named Mayor of Teruel, Quentin Corrino was given the Bishopric of Calamocha, and Vutier Corrino was named Count of Albarracin.

(Note: The B Version is used here because it includes the note about Quentin’s request just before the fall of Albarracin. The A Version does not.)

(Player’s Note: there was already a faction pushing for Quentin to take over, there was no way he was getting significant land and soldiers to join those miscreants. I thought perhaps pushing Quentin into a bishopric would get him out of the way.)

A1116.10 Duke Salvador is delivered from the affliction of Smallpox by Our Father in Heaven.

A1116.12 The Breton Band was released from contract. Guilhèm Corrino, son of Duke Salvador, was named as Chancellor to Duchess Adèla of Toulouse.

A1117.1 Count Frederick of Foix was invited to Narbonne, and the occasion of his visit was joyous. At the feast, the Duke made much of a gifts to the Count and made him Cupbearer. Count Frederick responded by agreeing that his daughter Chalice would remain in Narbonne with the Duke as her guardian.
(Player’s Note: Frederick ended his faction immediately after all this attention...)

A1117.2 Nizmaddin of Pallars died of pneumonia. He was succeeded as Mayor of Pallars by one Bohemond, and replaced on the Council as Spymaster by Péire-Arnaut de Toulouse.

D1117.3 Aimeric de Narbonne died at 62, bedridden and infirm.

A1117.6 Count Frederick of Foix is known to be discussing institution of Succession by Seniority within the Duchy of Barcelona.

(Player’s Note: Frederick of Foix needs reason to join a support group for comfortably sitting on a stake...)

A1117.9 Flanders surrendered the war to King Henri III. Counts Frederick and Magnus presented a demand to Duke Salvador for Seniority Succession for the Duchy. Salvador refused, and immediately called for his levies and allies to arm. Salvador’s Lady Wife, Duchess of Toulouse, alone of all his allies answered his call to arms. Chancellor Bishop Ubert of Albi returned from Alto Aragon and presented documented proof to the Duke of a claim of his upon the county title there.

A1117.10 Duke Loui I of Aquitaine declared a de jure war for his rights and claims upon the County of Foix, under his title as Duke of Gascogne.
(Player’s Note: that idiot Frederick of Foix- revolting immediately exposed him to the claim of the greatest duke within France. Dumb. He’s going to exchange one liege for another stronger one. There is no way I can stop Aquitaine directly.)

A1117.11 A clash of arms at Carcasonne was a victory by our Duke . His soldiers press on to Foix.

(Player’s Note: If I can invest Foix, defend in the mountains while sieging, perhaps I can beat back an initial Aquitaine probe.)

A1117.12 Word has come from Aquitaine of a revolt, with multiple Counts rising up against their tyrant. The army reported moving to Foix from Aquitaine has turned back.

(Player’s Note: the move to Foix was doomed, the armies of Aquitaine bearing down outnumbered me 2:1, but the revolt pulled the army back to deal with his own mess. I investigated, and I think the Duke acted to imprison the Countess of Bordeaux and it set off a tyranny uprising. It is good to be lucky.)

A1118.1 Word has arrived that a new militant order of Christian Knights has formed - the Knights Templar. Praise for the brave Christian soldiers defending the meek. King Henri III declares a holy war for Valencia.
(Player’s Note: damn the king. That was my next target.)

B1118.3 Prince Tryggve was sent to raise recruiting and levy rates to support the armies in the field.

A1118.8 Foix fell to Barcelona in siege.

A1118.12 St. Gaudens was captured in siege.

A1119.1 Count Frederick of Foix proposed a White Peace, which the Duke rejected out of hand. King Henri III won his war, Praise God, and captured Valencia.

A1119.4 Mirepoix was captured by the Duke.

A1119.5 The army of Barcelona marched to Carcasonne where it was granted victory on the field, and a siege was laid.

A1119.10 King Henri III declared Holy War to capture Granada for God and France.

A1119.11 Morag Corrino was wed to Count Ǿlver of Agder.

A1120.1 Carcasonne was captured by forces of the Duke, and the revolt was broken. The rebel counts were imprisoned.

The levies were hardly released before the Duke announced a war for his claims and rights upon the county of Alto Aragon, to take it from the King of Aragon. The Saxon Band was hired to supplement the troops, and the Duchess of Toulouse pledged her aid in the coming fight.

(Player’s Note: Aragon had many allies, but they were all embroiled in warfare against Muslims.)

A1120.3 Bishop Godefry of Cuaxà passed away. Bishop Louis named as his replacement.

A1120.5 A clash of arms, as an army of Aragón was met in the field at Puirgcerdá (in Urgell) and defeated. The forces of our Duke pursue them to Alto Aragon.

A1120.10 Bishop Ubert passed away at 44. Leto Corrino ascended to his post as Bishop of Albi, so named by Duke Salvador. Payen d’Anjou was named Chancellor.

A1120.11 King Henri III of France is reported slain in battle against the Sultan Abu-Bakr II of the Almoravid Sultanate. Long Live King Philippe II! And may God watch over him.

A1121.1 Agata de Marsan usurped the Duchy of Gascogne from Duke Loui I of Aquitaine. The mercenaries of the Duke are reported to have won a battle at Solsona over Aragon.
(Note: Marsan’s rise to Duchess is the denouement of the earlier rebellion in Aquitaine, and seemed to portend a weakening of Loui - though he still held the titles of Aquitaine and Poitou.)
(Player’s Note: the ducal levies are managing the siege and the mercs are keeping the enemy moving and unable to cause problems.)

A1121.4 Orenna Corrino was taken to the Lord after a period of illness. Jaca, in Alto Aragon, has been captured by our Duke after a siege.

A1121.7 Huesca fell after siege to Barcelona.

A1121.9 Haditha Corrino wed matrilineally to Péire-Arnaut de Toulouse (widower of Orenna Corrino).

A1121.10 Count Vutier Corrino of Albaraccin revoked title from Muhayid Abdul-Hazmez in Albaraccin, and installed a Catholic Bishop in his stead - Praise God.

A1121.11 Abdallah ibn Baluggia surrendered to King Philippe II. Granada is returned to the bosom of the church. Barbastro fell to Barcelona’s siege.

A1121.6 King Philippe II embroiled in an embargo dispute with Genoa and armies of each side march back and forth across the realm of Barcelona. The peasants and commerce are greatly disrupted.
(Player’s Note: discovered my son Xavier is married - regular - to the Duchess of Flanders. Nice.)

A1122.7 Loarre surrendered to Barcelona’s siege, and Aragon surrendered their resistance.The Barony of Alquézar was vacated and assigned to Girvais de Cerdanya.

Jules Corrino, half-brother to the Duke, is named Count of Alto Aragon and Cupbearer.
(Player’s Note: wanted to land more of the dynasty, but Jules doesn’t really like me and is a claim holder. I expect trouble later. Sub-assigning the barony before transferring it (for the relations boost) hopefully keeps him off my back and not directly holding an extra barony to fluff his army and confidence.)

 

[mike the knight]

It seems that family is very zealous :laugh: You should teach them a lesson

 

[Chyll]

It seems that family is very zealous :laugh: You should teach them a lesson

Oh, you haven't seen anything, yet....

 

[Chyll]

A1122.8 Word has arrived the Girvais de Cerdanya, Baron of Alquézar has passed. He was without heir, and Count Jules of Alto Aragon has taken the title and lordship as his own.
(Player’s Note: well damn.)

A1122.9 Count Magnus sent an impassioned plea from the dungeon to be heard by the Duke that his wife was facing unwanted advances from Baron Payen of Cerdanya. The Duke would not hear the complaint. A victorious clash of arms was reported against Zoghabid allies to Genoa attempting to cross Barcelona to reach France.

(Player’s Note: guess my worries were unfounded, as it seems that Jules handed out the barony straight away, and to a fast working lech, at that.)

A1122.10 Duke Salvador of Barcelona declared he will enforce is de jure claim over the county of Barcelona by force of arms. His Lady Wife, Duchess of Toulouse, has agreed to back his claim and the Duke of Anjou has likewise.

(Player’s Note: Defeating the one county King of Aragon resulted in that crown going vacant, and those stupid crown laws no longer limit me.)

A1122.11 Count of Barcelona called upon Count Humbert of Nevers to join the resistance against Salvador’s claim, and he agreed.

A1122.12 The Count of Barcelona advanced to his defeat at Empuries by forces of our Duke. He was pursued back to County Barcelona.

A1123.4 The Duke’s Steward, Uilliam d’Adge, was assaulted by crowds as he attempted to raise additional taxes for the war in Urgell. He was called home. The army of Toulouse, marching to Barcelona, was ambushed by an army of Genoa in arms against King Philippe. Toulouse was defeated, and Raphael Corrino (son of Duke Salvador) was captured.

D1123.5 Duke Salvador is rumored to have an inappropriate relationship with his courtier Heloise. The Bishop has counseled us to pray for his deliverance from his father’s sins, and admonished us from participating in rumor.

A1123.8 Péire-Arnaut de Toulouse died in an accident. Bohemond, Mayor of Pallars, named as Spymaster in his stead.

A1123.9 Guilhèm Corrino, heir to Barcelona and Toulouse, imprisoned by the Count of Barcelona as the weakened army of Toulouse, again marching to Barcelona, has been defeated in Empuries by the Count.

A1123.12 The Castle of Barcelona fell to the forces of the Duke. Vutier, Count of Albarracin, known to want to take the title of Duke of Barcelona for himself. Salvador hired the Saxon Band.
(Player’s Note: The Saxon Band was assigned to chase off the army of the troublesome count, and other forces allied to Genoa causing problems. Additionally, it raised my power and weakened Vutier’s faction to a non-issue.)

A1124.1 Vutier Corrino, Count of Albarracin, personally beseeched Duke Salvador to free Count Magnus from his dungeon. In Christian compassion, the Duke agreed. Salvador then sent Fondil Corrino back to Albarracin with Vutier as his ward.
(Note: the D Version adds “Salvador revoked Magnus’ title as Count of Carcasonne before opening his cell.”)

(Player’s Note: I just couldn’t risk angering Vutier with his leading a faction. I was able to revoke first though, which was nice. And sending the ward should delay what I expect to be fighting eventually. Well, on the plus sdie Vutier has managed to reduce my worries about Jules. Family...)

B1124.2 Andros Corrino son of David Kamateros, nephew to Duke Salvador, sent to study with Alias, Mayor of Saissac.

A1124.3 The Bishopric of Vic was captured in siege by forces of our Duke. Bishop Yves has succeeded the passing of Jacques of Alet in Carcasonne.

A1124.4 The mercenary army of the Duke has laid siege in Tarragona.
(Player’s Note: time for the Saxon Band to quit wandering around and speed things up.)

A1124.5 Baron Payen of Cerdanya passed and Count Jules of Alto Aragon named Chancellor.

A1124.11 Tarragona captured by the Duke’s siege. Burghers came to the Duke and requested a lowering of taxes in the cities, and the Duke was persuaded by their plea.

(Player’s Note: *grumble*. But I didn’t wanted the hit in their unhappiness. People just generally seem to not like Salvador.)

A1124.12 Maresa captured by the Duke after a siege.

A1125.2 Duke Loui I of Aquitaine usurped the title Duchy of Gascogne from Agata de Marsan. Count Guillaume of Barcelona called Duke Loui into his war against Duke Salvador.
(Player’s Note: gulp.)

A1125.5 Duke Salvador hired the Lombard Band, who was loaded onto ships in Narbonne and moved south along the coast.
(Player’s Note: cash gamble, the Lombard Band won’t be at full strength, but will be set as off shore reinforcements. An army of Aquitaine is marching on Barcelona - strength is just slightly in their favor...)

A1125.7 A battle between men of the Dukes of Barcelona and Aquitaine at Osona was a victory for Barcelona. Mayor Bertrand of Cotlliure has been hailed as a hero by our Duke for his command of the army in the field. The Lombard Band was landed at Tarragona to block the enemy’s retreat. Count Frederick of Foix was ransomed of his freedom.

(Player’s Note: Bertrand was an inspired leader with a bonus in the center... so in the center he was, backed by the Saxon Band, and he smashed the enemy. The Lombard Band was money poorly spent - weren’t even needed. The gold for freeing Foix certainly helped, though.)

A1125.8 The Lombard Band was defeated at Tarragona and disbanded.
(Player’s Note: while they did further weaken the enemy, that was indeed gold poorly spent.)

A1125.10 Osona surrendered to our Duke’s siege, and the war was ended. The Count of Tarragona and Barcelona surrendered the title to County Barcelona to Salvador, Duke of Barcelona.

Salvador had not even given the command to send the levies home when a courier arrived from Albarracin. Count Vutier demanded that Salvador step aside and grant the Duchy of Barcelona to Vutier. Salvador ordered the armies to march on Albarracin, and his Lady Wife of Toulouse committed her forces to his aid.

A1125.11 Bishop Leto of Albi declared for Vutier. All in the abbey pray for peace. Salvador Corrino, son of the Duke, passed away of a natural death at the age of 32. Count Jules of Alto Aragon declared his support for Count Vutier’s claim. Forces loyal to the Duke laid siege in Albaraccin.
(Note: Bishop Leto’s conflicted loyalty seems to have impacted the recording of the Chronicle in this period.)

A1125.12 Guilhèm Corrino, heir to the Duchies of Barcelona and Toulouse, was released from the dungeon of the Count of Tarragona.
(Player’s Note: *whew* Having an imprisoned heir is always nerve wracking.)

A1126.3 An army of Vutier of Albarracin defeated a force from Toulouse at Foix, where they ravaged the countryside and laid siege to the castle.

A1126.6 Albarracin abandoned their siege at Foix and arrived at Carcasonne where they laid a new siege. His Holiness, Pope Marcellus II called a 2e Crusade for Jerusalem. May the soldiers of Christ prevail.

A1126.9 The Barony of Albarracin was captured in siege by Barcelona.

A1127.1 Teruel was captured in siege by Barcelona.

A1127.3 Carcasonne was captured in siege by Albarracin.

A1127.7 Hijar was captured in siege by Barcelona.

D1127.8 Duke Salvador is reported to partake of hedonistic behaviors unbecoming a man of God.

A1127.9 Calamocha was captured in siege by Barcelona. All of Albarracin was occupied, and the army of Barcelona is reported marching north. Saissac is reported fallen and invested by Albarracin.

A1127.10 The Serene Doge Oberto II of Genoa has surrendered to King Philippe II of France. Raphael Corrino was freed from Genoan dungeon in the settlement.

A1128.2 At 33, Bishop Yves of Alet has passed after an illness. Bishop Raoul took up the mantle of his calling.

A1128.3 Carcassone was recaptured by Barcelona after a brief siege.

A1128.5 Duke Jaufret I of Aquitaine refused King Philippe II’s revocation of the county of Saintange and it was war. Saissac was recaptured by Barcelona after siege. Vutier surrendered to the Duke, and gave up his

claim. The Saxon Band was sent away.

A1128.7 The Duke Salvador of Barcelona did not let peace settle upon the land before he declared war to exert his claim to the county of Lleida as de jure part of his realm. Forces of the Duke immediately arrived in Cervera, where a battle was won and a siege begun. Bishop Leto of Albi request leniency in his imprisonment. The Duke sent a message to the Bishopric, and we surrendered to him no small amount of gold and purchased the Bishop’s freedom.
(Player’s Note: the Count of Lleida had zero allies...)

A1129.2 Vutier complained of conditions within the prison, but the Duke would not hear his pleas. Duke Jaufret I of Aquitaine was defeated by the King, the county of Saintange was revoked and he was imprisoned. Then the King further revoked county Limousin from him.
(Player’s Note: tip hat to the AI French King - please remember I’m a good little lord.)

A1129.4 Andros Corrino, nephew of the Duke, married Princess of France Hélie Capet.

A1129.5 Lleida captured by the Duke’s siege force. Fondil Corrino, half-brother to the Duke, married Princess of France Ermengarde Capet.

A1129.8 Wensicia Corrino, niece of the Duke, married David Corrino son of Leto, Bishop of Albi.

A1129.9 David Corrino made Count of Carcasonne. Cervera captured by Barcelona’s siege force.

A1130.4 Pope Marcellus II passed to his reward. Pius II raised as Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Christ, Successor of the Prince of the Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Primate of Italy, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province, Sovereign of the State of the Vatican City, Servant of the Servants of God.

A1130.5 Solsona captured by the army of Barcelona. Lleida surrendered and made vassal to our Duke.

A1130.7 Duke Salvador I of Barcelona moved his capital seat from Narbonne to Barcelona. The Counts Jules and Vutier were both ransomed to their freedom. Andros Corrino made Count of Urgell. Fondil Corrino made Count of Empuries. Mayor Bertrand of Cotlliure made Marshall for the Duke. Leto Corrino was named Spymaster.
(Player’s Note: time to consolidate power some, and final get the demesne right sized for some improvement in vassal relations, landing family for dynasty points, etc.)

INTERLUDE
===
The Southern Holdings of France:

To the North:

===

A1130.10 Bernard, Court Chaplain, passed away at 55. Louis, Bishop of Cuixà named Chaplain as a proper spiritual advisor.

A1131.1 Jules Corrino participated in a banquet with the Duke in a Christian mending of the family.

D1131.5 The Duke's wife, the Duchess of Toulouse, has sent agents to Barcelona inquirying of the Duke's activities and social interests. The Bishop has instructed us to share nothing with them.
(Note: Clearly, the D Version continues to shed light on a the personal activities of Salvador, and goes quite far in clearing up the mystery of his wife's increased anger.)

D1131.8 The Duke continues to behave in a manner most unseemly.

A1131.9 Pope Pius II excommunicated Salvador, Duke of Barcelona, at the request of his wife, Adèla, Duchess of Toulouse.
(Note: There must have been a serious personal rift for the Duchess to request her husband be excommunicated. She had supported him in war multiple times, but in reality was probably simply honoring her obligations and supporting the claims of her son and heir, as much as it must have galled to help Salvador.)
(Player’s Note: bitch)

A1131.12 Count Vutier began to lobby again to remove Salvador as Duke of Barcelona.
(Note: emboldened by the excommunication?)


C1132.1 Salvador Corrino, first of his name, Duke of Barcelona, Count of Barcelona, Count of Narbonne, and Count of Rosello departed this life at the age of 57 after ruling for 18 years. Guilhèm Corrino, first son of his father, took rulership in rightful inheritance.

INTERLUDE:
Salvador had succeeded a dynamic and active Frederick who had crafted control of the Duchy of Barcelona. He was faced then with issues related to claims against him, a weak character, and challenges of a personal nature. How do we assess his results? Salvador succeeded in consolidating power - dragging de jure counties into the the duchy proper thanks to deft maneuvering against the rump King of Aragon. Even moving the capital to the more wealthy Barcelona, was a pragmatic and wise move. Coupled with continuation of his father’s policy of avoiding French politics, it must be conceded that his rule was sufficient for the realm and dynasty.

Perhaps, he could have aspired to more, but his reign was plagued with revolt. His success in those actions speaks well of his resilience. However, the excommunication would have left him vulnerable to additional pressure and risks which may have finally overcome his limited abilities. The question had plagued historians as to what could have prompted his own wife to have him excommunicated. The D Version does much to provide insight into this aspect of their relationship. Was she plotting to use that as casus belli to war to put Guilhèm on the throne early? We will never know as his death interrupted whatever plans were to follow.