Four little fish in a very big pond.

[unmerged(3525)]

So it’s official – Prussia has been annexed into the kingdom of Denmark. I’ve decided to continue my struggle with another European minor, this time Norway. I think a short summary assessment of their position would be in order.

Norway owns only its capital province in Bergenshus. Financially it is weak with only a 5% market share in Ile-de-France and annualised income of 21D from its one province. It has an army of a little over 1000 men and 9500 cavalry in Bergenshus and a navy of 1 warship in the Baltic Sea.

Technologically, it is fairly advanced with land tech 16, naval tech 13, trade tech 3 and infra level 4.

Norway is a Protestant nation with domestic policy tending towards Aristocracy(3), Decentralisation (3), Narrowmindedness (2), Mercantilism (3), Quantity (2) and Free Subjects (2)

We are in a military alliance with Poland, Scotland, Cologne and Sweden and are at war in this alliance (except Cologne) against Russia. We are also in a war alongside Cologne, Sweden and Scotland against Burgundy and Siena. Naturally we have a Casus Belli against Denmark which we shall use to recover our rightful lands.

Of the major powers, France holds the most European provinces while closely followed by Russia, Austria, Turkey and Poland. The annexation of Gelre has brought most of the Dutch provinces into the Polish kingdom.

With victory points of 151, Norway is in 72nd place (out of 72 most likely!)

Now to the game. Not desiring to fight in either of our current wars, but keen to fight against Denmark, we take the only reasonable course of action. Treasury to 100% and raise up infantry.

In February, news arrives from Spain that they have ceded their province of Costa Rica to the Mayans. Income figures arrive in the same month and now our position is shown to be weak. In order to raise an army we will need to borrow, and do so extensively. For our needs we will require at least two forces of 6000 men and 60 cannon, for a total cost of over 700D. Loans of this size will create interest charges of at least 7.2D per month against monthly income of just 3.3D (of which nearly 50% is from trading). This cost is simply too great and the risks too high. Our first priority must be to improve our income before we can risk a war against Denmark. Our first action is therefore to send a merchant to Andalusia.

At the end of March, Austria (Spain) declares war on Venice (Helvetia, Bavaria, Papal States).

Our attempt to expand trade in Andalusia fail with two attempts. This is not going to be easy.

In June, we move towards innovation. It will take two months to recover stability but the reduced technology cost will bring us an immediate gain as we reach trade tech 4 in July.

In September we lose our share of the market in Ile-de-France but manage to immediately gain a share on Andalusia. Two attempts to recover the position in Paris fail. Yet another costly failure.

Further attempts in the following year succeed in giving us a 5% market share in Paris, Andalusia and Mecklemberg. With income increased, we redirect income to land technology and reduce the inflationary pressures.. A more gradual approach is, I feel, of more use to us for the time being.

In January 1596, news arrives that a great plague has struck Spain and Portugal.

In March, an explorer by the name of Romer arrives in court with one warship and offers to go discover new lands. Our hopes go with him. He arrives back in Bergenshus in August with news that he has discovered many oceans and lands to the west. Sea routes as far as the Sea of Baffin have been discovered along with the French owned provinces of Caniapiscau.

In September, news arrives that the Ottoman Empire have gained a crushing victory over their Mameluk enemies. In the peace settlement, the Ottomans gain Lebanon, Aleppo, Quattara, Judea, Sinai and Samaria.

The new year brings the end of Romer’s second voyage as far as the bay of Fundy. Several new provinces are discovered but all are claimed by either France or England.

In February 1597, the Ottoman Empire declares war on Persia.

By now, our ally Poland is falling apart under strain of internal rebellion. Many German and Lowland provinces are rebel held or under siege. Their war effort in Russia is under great strain. They are finally forced to the peace table in May and pay 400D to Russia in reparations.

Romer embarks on his third voyage in April and discovers Hudson Bay.

In August, the Papal States cede Napoli to Aragon in a peace settlement.

On Romer’s fourth voyage, he discovers Delaware and the Lenape tribe.

In February 1598 England join with Russia in a war with Denmark. Denmark’s allies (France, Eire, Genoa) support them. In the same month, Romer discovers an unclaimed province in Massachussets. He returns to port to collect troops to oversee a colonisation.

Within days of our discovery, Austria’s empire grows again with the gains of Franche-Comte and Lombardia from Helvetia.

In April, the Mameluk empire suffers another setback as the rebels in Tripoli declare independence from their former overlords.

In May, Arendorf boards ship from Bergenshus with 1000 infantry and 1000 cavalry, bound for Massachussets. At the same time, Pommern declare themselves an independent state and begin hostilities against Poland. We decline to support the Poles and quickly form a new alliance with Sweden.

In July, our first trade post is established in Massachussets and we send more traders. Russia make peace with Denmark allowing Denmark’s allies Genoa to declare war on the Ottoman Empire. France, Denmark and Eire support Genoa.

Romer returns to port in Bergenshus having escorted 2000 troops to Massachussets. He then sets out on a series of voyages planned for the next year. Let us hope that he does not change his mind in mid voyage and return to port.

With the expansion of our trade post in Massachussets, a third party is sent in December. It is our finally action before we return to Zimbabwe.

As I leave, a new commanded (Nillson) arrives in Bergenshus

 

[unmerged(3525)]

Zimbabwe looks healthy enough when we return. In much the same position as when we left them. Our first move is to switch domestic policy away from mercantilism (to +4) and to start flooding Ile-de-France with merchants. With monthly trading income at only 3.4D, we need to increase this. By January 1600, we have increased our market share to 25%

In January 1600, we hear news that France has gone bankrupt. And we get some new music

We fail to make any lasting impression on the French market over several years.

In May 1602, a country called the Netherlands, joins the French alliance.

In January 1603, we have an exceptional year and income increases with a sharp (-10%) reduction in inflation. We increase income to treasury and take a loan in May to fund a second fine arts academy in Nembire for a total cost of 1100D

In July of the same year, France join Genoa in a war against Aragon, Austria and Spain.

I have to say that I was a little disappointed with the five year owing to a CTD in my first attempt to play through this period. In that particular run, I got another conquistador and was able to colonise Table and Niassa. I suppose the exceptional year event was still valuable and helped me get the fourth manufactory. Nonetheless, I would have preferred to improve our maps and territories. It is getting a little tiring now that these crashes are occurring all too frequently.

Off to Dakota and see how their last war and current wars are going.

*

On returning, Dakota has ended its latest war with the Iroquois and Lenape with no gains. It appears that the Huron tribe were successful in the previous war with Lenape and gained the provinces of Nipissing and Adirondak. However, in the current war, Lenape control both of these provinces and have also captured Ottawa and Oshawa. Our truce with Lenape and Iroquois is due to end in 1606.

We still have one loan outstanding and due to be repaid in a couple of years. We have around 246D of funds available.

Our army is a respectable 13300 infantry and 2300 cavalry although the AI seems very keen to build up our navy which is now up to 19 warships and 1 transports.

Our new colony in Milwaukee has been fortified and a bailiff was promoted. We also have two colonies on the verge of growing into full cities and two others about to break the 600 population level.

Thus we have conflicting objectives. Should we use funds to develop these colonies to fully functioning city states, or should we build up for war on either Lenape and Iroquois, or even against the Aztec. In the end we decide to focus on internal development.

To this end, troops are raised in Tuscarora to prepare to clear Powhatan for colonisation while one colonist is sent to Oskosh and Missouri to accelerate their development to full cities. We send all income to treasury in order to fund the development.

We also make a policy shift towards Innovativenesss (-2).

In January, England join Russia in a war against Norway, Sweden and Scotland. In March Denmark pay small indemnities to Spain for peace.

In June, Fox grows to a city and is fortified. In July, colonists are sent to Powhatan having cleared the province of native elements.

In September, Denmark takes on the mantle of the sole defender of the Protestant faith. Shortly after this, Austria pay them small indemnities for peace. Austria repeat this in November when they pay some indemnities to France.

In November, we establish a colony in Powhatan. It is clearly a valuable province in which each colonists gives us an additional annual income of around 2.5D. What is more, as a border province, we would do well to bring this to a city level as soon as we are able. Another group of colonists are sent immediately.

In December new arrives that rebels have broken the Russian government.

By January, Wisconsin has grown to a city and is fortified. Meanwhile, our second group of colonists are successful in Powhatan. Later in the month, France decides to befriend the Huron tribe with the help of Samuel de Champlain

More colonists are sent to Powhatan in February, May, July and September as money becomes available. In November we send what we hope to be our final colonial expedition to Powhatan.

In November we suffer unrest from heretics claiming the existence of only one God. We do not have the funds to suppress this and suffer a drop in stability.

In Joanuary 1606, a bailiff is promoted in Fox as Powhatan reaches city status. It is now our most valuable province and will be fortified when fund allow. This takes place in April.

In July, we appoint a tax collector in Wisconsin and Oskosh grows into a city in August. We have insufficient funds to fortify this until November.

By January 1607, the Lenape tribe have succeeded in capturing Hochelaga from our Huron allies. Then in February our loan is due for repayment while funds are only 129D. By a remarkable stroke of fortune, we receive a gift to the state of 200D and are able to repay the loan.. We are also able to fund a final colonial expedition in March to inaugurate a city in Sault.

In March 1607, France pay indemnities of 275D to Aragon for peace.

The following month, a tax collector is appointed in Powhatan. WE then hear news that England have made peace with Norway ceding the province of Nandewar

Within a few days of this news, we also hear that France has paid 25D and given military access to Spain for peace.

In May 1607, Sault becomes our 15th city province.

In June, France decides to turn back on its goal of befriending the Huron tribe and declares war on the ravaged tribe. We support the Hurons with our allies the Creek tribe. Sault fortifications are started in July.

By November, French forces have lost one battle to the Creeks in Talahassee and have another force of 1000 men under Champlain in Huron territory. The Huron tribe finally agree to peace with France in exchange for a payment of 275D. We raise armies in Wisconsin and Oskosh to guard our northern borders.

In December, we promote a bailiff in Oskosh. Late in December, we win a brief battle against France in Biloxi.

By January 1608, it is clearer that the main French attack is in the southern Creek provinces. We raise more troops in Matagorda to defend the river crossing to Mobile.

In March we are shocked to hear that the French have captured Biloxi but even more so to find a force of over 3000 Frenchmen taking the province of Mississippi. Our small forces in Nipigon are called to attack Champlain in Nipissing but are beaten back after killing the French general. Further troops are raised in Matagorda to defend the southern threat. Meanwhile, our eastern forces in Tuscarora move to capture the known French provinces in the North. The news gets even worse as our forces in Mobile are attacked by 17000 Frenchmen

After two losses to the French they cheekily demand Duluth – a province that they have never even seen. We offer to bury their dead there.

Our mighty fleet of 19 warships surprises a French transport in Mobile Bay in April 1608. After many weeks, we succeed in sinking it.

In May, England and Poland agree peace with England receiving Danzig and Kribi. Perhaps this will go a little way to soften the blow of losing Nandewar.

In June, we see a large force of 14000 Frenchmen moving north to Missouri. We decide to wait to retake the province. More troops are raise across the region.

In August we attack 1580 French cavalry and 15 cannon in Bas-St-Laurent with a force of 10500 infantry and 1890 cavalry. Their cavalry are slaughtered but they succeed in driving us back with 13 cannon. We return in November and defeat them.

In September, Denmark gains Sahara, Fez and Tassaret from Morocco in a peace settlement.

In December news arrives that rebels have again broken Russia.

By January, the peace negotiations are again in the balance after we lose Biloxi for a second time and two further battles. Let us hope they can look after themselves. On reviewing the general economic situation, I notice a strong increase in all incomes which are up by around 35% from the same time 20 years earlier. I also notice that the AI built a weapons manufactory in Onondaga – a quite remarkable feat since we are still at land tech 2. Estimated time before reaching land tech 3 is 1688!!

 

[Lt. Tyler]

Lionheart,

I was just paging through some of the last few posts, and realized that they're all updates from you, sans any replies from anyone else.

So just to let you know (in case you were wondering), I'm still following this one, and enjoying it immensely! So please, keep it up.

And good choice with Norway. I'll always have a soft spot for them, since one of the first AARs I read was Mimir's Norwegian AAR.

Ah, nostalgia for something that happened like 2 months ago.

But again, thanks for the entertaining read!

 

[unmerged(9046)]

Lionheart,

Another KUDOS from the silent mass of readers. Good job on this one.

 

[unmerged(3525)]

Cheers guys.

Just to let you know that I still have 40 years of notes to post so I'm far from finished. I'm actually quite liking the game since all of the countries have certain obvious disadvantages. Whilst I secretly dread returning to places like Dakota or Norway, it's far more interesting than playing 400 years where your average player can normally take a small nation to a medium sized one within 100 years and then, from there, just use the size advantage to gain more territory.

One thing I am more impressed about in EU II is that the AI seems to have a better understanding of war strategy and will allow you to besiege provinces until they are near to falling before launching a series of attacks to relieve the city.

 

[unmerged(6777)]

Hey! I've been reading and commenting too. Lionheart often posts a number of instalments at once and it may take me a day or two to catch up, but I do eventually get there.

I was wondering which country you'd choose after Prussia bit the biscuit. You're not making it easy on yourself, are you? It'll be interesting to see whether you can crack the top 50 list with them before the end. Seems like the AI must have done something pretty amazing to get a province from England.

When I was playing Zimbabwe I would pray for those deflation events, but that was back in 1.02 when a couple fo the nicer ones simply didn't exist. Looks like you're doing okay there, though.

I'm impressed that you're doing as well as you are aginst the French with the Dakota. I like the "We offer to bury their dead there" line in response to their peace demand.

This continues to be an interesting experiment and a highly entertaining read.

 

[Lord Durham]

Originally posted by Lionheart
In August we attack 1580 French cavalry and 15 cannon in Bas-St-Laurent with a force of 10500 infantry and 1890 cavalry. Their cavalry are slaughtered but they succeed in driving us back with 13 cannon. We return in November and defeat them.

That's one of those really maddening features in the game.

"Charge!"

"Er, why don't we just go around them?"

"What? Where's the honour in that, sirrah!"

"But they're using grapeshot, my Lord."

"Details, details..."

Excellent work, Lionheart. Very good indeed.

 

[unmerged(1996)]

And you have to love those three month sea battles, when the 19-warship strong pride of the Dakota navy takes on a canal barge, but they can't quite manage to sink it...

 

[unmerged(3525)]

Originally posted by MrT
Hey! I've been reading and commenting too. Lionheart often posts a number of instalments at once and it may take me a day or two to catch up, but I do eventually get there.

And then he doesn't post anything for almost a month

But to be honest, I've been suffering a bit recently from a severe bout of World Cup Fever that seems to catch me every few years or so. This time it could be as serious as it was in 1990

Oh, and before I forget, I'll post a new installment in a minute

 

[unmerged(3525)]

The first thing I notice on returning to Tibet is that we are at war alongside Assam and Ayutthaya against Dai Viet and Khmer. Vientiane has now been annexed with three provinces going to Ayutthaya and the fourth, Bago coming to us.

Unfortunately, we cannot send any of our troops into the war because our Tibetan provinces are cut off from Assam and Ayutthaya due to the fact that Delhi now own the province of Kachin, having taken it from Assam in a recent war. We have over 50000 troops standing idle in Tibet and more are being raised in Lhasa while those already there are dying of attrition in that cold inhospitable land. I take comfort in the fact that the province is even less friendly to my enemies.

All three of our provinces in the south east are occupied, but not controlled, by rebels. One of the sieges in Mekong is on the verge of capturing the province but Dai Viet forces are currently fighting the rebels. Presumably they also do not wish to see Vientiane as an independent nation again

We shall wait for a while before deciding how to handle this dilemma. An early declaration of war against the Indian states which would bring enemies to our southern front to add to those in the east would be most premature, more so when it is seen that Kachin is controlled by rebels.

Now, at this point, I wonder if the AI “bends the rules” slightly. Chatagai Horde have been at war with China now for over half a century with the Horde controlling both of China’s isolated western provinces. The war exhaustion in each of these provinces has risen to +3 in this period. When I find myself at war in Dakota for less than 15 years and the war exhaustion in Matagorda is +14!!

Now did anyone ever expound to you on the virtues of patience? If ever there was proof that it pays to take a little time, this is a prime example. Dai Viet agree peace with Ayutthaya, and Tibet, by paying 47D. This was not until after they had defeated the rebels in Mekong province. We can now raise troops in Mekong to deal with the rebels in Bago and Lampang. Later in the month, Khmer cancels its vassalisation with Dai Viet.

The problem remains what we are to do with an army of 49000 foot and 2500 cavalry. Bengal are, at this moment, involved in a war with Orissa but have lost their capital in Bihar. On July 1st, we declare war on Bengal who are supported by Delhi and Hyderabad. Our allies, Assam and Ayutthaya support us. We immediately send 6000 men to besiege Kachin and 7000 infantry and 1000 cavalry to Santal. Both have minimal fortresses and should quickly fall. Reinforcements are sent to Nepal from Lhasa to increase the forces in the border province to 20500 infantry and 3200 cavalry. It is here that we expect Bengal to attack but hope to inflict serious damage on their troops in this inhospitable land. Our chief concern lies in Delhi who have a much higher land technology (12 to our 5).

Kachin and Santal are besieged by the end of July.

In November a Delhi led force of (11647/1713/27) attack our forces in Nepal of (20458/3265/-). Despite having positional advantage, we suffer a massive disadvantage in technology levels. We retreat to Lhasa after losing around 5000 infantry and 1000 cavalry to Delhi’s losses of around two-thirds of that amount. We rely on attrition as much as anything to reduce Delhi’s forces before they can relieve Kachin.

We are saved, by some strange occurrence when the Delhi army simply vanishes. Our surplus forces in Lhasa are ordered to Nepal to prepare for an offensive against Bengal. In April we besiege Koch but are driven back by a Delhi force.

As the Delhi force moves south, another force of infantry move to Koch province. It is besieged again in June. We are attacked by a larger Bengali force in July while reinforcements are on their way. Sadly, the reinforcements choose to wait until we have lost the battle before they attack the Bengals. They succeed in driving the Bengali force away as news reaches us that Santal has been captured. The siege force in Santal moves on Howrah as more troops cross from Nepal to Santal.

At the end of August, we occupy Howrah as news arrives that Delhi have capitulated in Kochin. Much needed reinforcements are returned from the siege of Kochin to the Bengal border.

In September, we attack a Bengali recruit force in Bihar and occupy their capital province. In October, we besiege their capital.

In November, we finally succeed in relieving Bago of rebels but are attacked in Bihar by a large Bengali force. A Delhi force is seen heading east so our Nepalese defensive armies wait for them to pass. Meanwhile, the Bengalis are defeated in Bihar but we have suffered grievous losses.

In January 1611, our relief force arrives in Bihar to help defeat a new Bengali force in the province. The siege is now renewed with over 20000 men taking part.

In April, a large Bengali relief force is seen heading towards their capital. We send a small force from Nepal to cut off a second Bengali force of 2000 men in Koch. The smaller army is defeated in Koch although we win a narrow victory in Bihar. Reinforcements are sent from Koch to the Bihar siege where the prospect of gaining better maps is too enticing to miss.

In July, Bihar falls and we gain access to maps for vast tracts of land from the whole of India through the middle east to North Africa and much of Europe. With the added leverage on Bengal we offer peace for Santal and Kachin. They accept the terms (16% v 23%) and we can return to the task of restoring peace and order to our realms.

In August, our land technology improves again (Level 6)

In November, Wurtemberg is annexed by Austria. In December, we finally break the rebels in Lampang and our nation is now at peace. We use the opportunity to send a letter to Assam (+178 to +187)

In January 1612 there is an uprising in Kachin but we allow the rebels to rot away in the mountain terrain before we shall move on them

In April, Sweden declares war on Russia. Norway and Scotland support Sweden while England support Russia. Good luck Norway

In June, Creek pays 225D damages to France in a peace settlement.

In August a second revolt in Kachin delays plans to relieve the province. Another letter is sent to Assam (+200).

Our first attempt to relieve Kachin meets with failure. Reinforcements are raised in Lhasa. We succeed in relieving Kachin in our second attempt during December.

In February 1613, Assam reject our offer of annexation and we quickly arrange a new royal marriage with them when they cancel their vassalisation. Further misfortune strikes us in March as plague strikes the prosperous province of Kunlun.

In April, Saxony convert their religion to Protestant. I had not even realised that the country even existed. Perhaps Poland is having more problems with revolts.

In August, England pays 50D to Denmark for peace, while September brings news that Spain has declared war on a nation known as the Maya.

In November, Dakota pays France 190D in a peace settlement . At this time, Denmark take advantage of the brief lull in the west and declare war on Lenape.

 

[unmerged(3525)]

Returning to Norway, we find ourselves in a war with England and Russia as well as still being in an old war against Burgundy. We still hold our Massachussets trade post and now own a level 3 colony in the Australian province of Nandewar – we know where it is but have now idea how to get there

There is one small problem though: we are in debt to the tune of 800D. Interest costs and military maintenance amount to some 180D per annum which far outstrips any income we will make from our provinces or trading. There is only one option open to us: we must fight for money!

In February, our 4/3/1 General Nilsson boards ship from Bergenshus along with 7500 infantry, 3000 cavalry, and 20 cannon. They sail for Scotland and in May they lay siege to Aberdeen in English owned Grampians.

By this time, Poland is falling apart under the weight of revolts in their German province.

By September, our forces besieging Aberdeen have grown to 9000/9000/20. But with half of our initial treasury of 113D depleted, it is now apparent that we will become bankrupt. It is only a matter of when and how although our latest date will probably be next August when the first of our four loans matures.

In December, Dakota pays 189D to Lenape for peace (Sigh!! )

In January, an English party defeats what is left of our forces in Bergenshus but is unable to mount a siege. We break off part of our siege force in Grampians to defeat the invaders.

At this stage we decide to take another loan and send a colonial party to Nandewar. At the very least, this will allow us to chart the neighbouring sea zone . It will also change the culture of Nandewar to Scandinavian

The English are driven from Bergenshus and a further 6000 infantry are recruited.

In September we go bankrupt but still run a high risk of needing to raise money as income is being overwhelmed by military maintenance. A week later, Aberdeen falls to Nilsson. He marches north to Highlands.

In October I receive welcome news of my promotion to Count!! King Magnus must clearly be impressed by my financial dealings And on that matter, a forced loan is taken in October to pay for military costs. The banks offer us generous terms of 35% interest. Looks like another bankruptcy may be on the cards but I’m not so keen to take another stability hit just yet with revolt risk in Bergenshus at 3%.

Nilsson wins two close battles against the English in Grampians before he is able to begin a siege of Inverness.

In November, rebels in Poland break the government and force the formation of independent nations in Hessen, Hanover, Pommern and Prussia We choose this time to make peace with Burgundy with no payments from either side.

In January a small Norwegian force captures the English colony in Wabana. We offer peace to England in return for just this small province but the English refuse our most generous terms. It seems that they are a very stubborn race.

In March our war is brought to an end when Sweden receive 300D from Russia in a peace settlement. The extra money is certainly worthwhile but still not enough to stave off long term loan-dependence. We shall raise more loans while Nilsson is returned to Bergenshus. England have a brief period of peace before declaring war on Huron.

In April we clear Massachussets of natives before an envoy arrives from Sweden requesting that we join them and Scotland in their war against Denmark. Conscious of our long standing animosity against the cruel Danes, we would normally jump at such a chance. However, with our lower morale from bankruptcy plus the existence of France in the Danish alliance, we decline this time to join. Instead we join the English alliance with Russia and join in a war against Huron, Dakota and Creek, wherever they may be.

In April, we take two loans and use the money to expand the fortifications in Bergenshus. A colonial party is sent to create a colony in Massachussets. In May, England reveal to us where we can find the capital provinces of the American indian nations. Very interesting indeed although, if they want us to participate in the war in some form or other, it could be helpful if they also showed us how we might get there. Never mind, I’ve gone off fighting for the moment
(OOC: Dakota is at zero stability)

In May, our colonial party to Nandewar fails (84%). It seems that the lack of any clear route was no help to our intrepid colonials. Even so, we must try again. It would do no good to have Anglo-saxon culture in our lands.

In June, we are forced to take another loan and use some of the extra funds to send a gift to Dakota. Even though we are at war with them, a small gesture of this type goes a long way to improve relations. All the better that it is being paid by our bankers,

In August, Denmark form an East India company The Dakota and Huron tribes also join the Creeks in a war against the Cherokee.

We choose this time of relative peace to disband about half of our army. Our current maintenance costs are simply too high for a country as poor as Norway. By October we have made a moderate increase in our trading income in order to ensure that our next bankruptcy will be our last.

In December 1616, we move domestic policy towards centralisation. A new loan is taken and we send a personal gift to Dakota (+158)

In January, our colonial attempt in Massachussets fails. A trading party is sent to improve the moderate income we gain from the province.

In April 1617, we are bankrupt again. Inflation rises again to 68% but we now have no interest costs. We also decide to raise war taxes to improve our financial position.

In June, Ukraine ceded Poltava to Russia in a peace settlement.

In September, our colony in Nandewar expands and is now a respectable 450 strong colony.

By January 1618, tax income brings treasury to 20D. We are still forced to divert around 30% of monthly income to treasury to keep up maintenance costs. War taxes are also levied.

In May, a conquistador appears in court and he is sent with 500 cavalry and 1000 infantry to Massachussets to explore the neighbouring regions. In June another trading party is sent to Massachussets.

In September, Steensen, our conquistador, arrives in Massachussets and sets off to explore west along the coast. He discovers an empty province in Connecticut but we have insufficient funds to colonise this.

As 1619 approaches, we come to an end of a rather painful 5 years in charge of Norway. Perhaps I took advantage of the situation in bringing around the second bankruptcy much earlier than necessary and using the funds quickly to expand fortifications and colonise. Although I’ve left Norway with 69% inflation, the AI should bring this back down over the next 15 years so that bankruptcy is not such a bad thing in this game. I think, in future, I will adopt an informal rule so as not to take advantage of this feature although, if I am faced with imminent bankruptcy – inherited from the AI - I will have no qualms in raising loans for my own advantage.

 

[unmerged(6777)]

I agree re taking advantage of the bankruptcy. The AI got you there through its own loan mismanagement so I don't think it's unreasonable to "pay it back" by speeding it along the way. You know, of course, that as soon as the AI has its hands on Norway again it'll take out a bunch of loans to build up that army that you partially disbanded...

I'm glad you've returned after the lengthy pause in this very entertaining AAR.

 

[unmerged(3525)]

True to form I post another update in an attempt to catch up with where I am in the game.

MrT: I had to decommission those troops because my income was not sufficient even to support them. This was the reason why, after going bankrupt, another loan was taken automatically and thus making the second bankruptcy a foregone conclusion. Second time round, and with trade income improved, I could handle the cost but maintenance was still around 20-30% of monthly income.

Here's the double-bill of Zimbabwe and Dakota up to January 1629.

****

Zimbabwe continues to live in peaceful ignorance of all around it when I find them. Fortunately they have repaid the loan I took out in the previous run and the second fine arts academy is completed.

One point of interest is that there is a growing Dutch colony in Karroo, now numbering 308. Our neighbouring colony in Ciskei has now grown to level 2, as have Inhambane and Natal. I also notice that our land technology has increased to Level 4. This is, no doubt, largely due to the neighbour bonus of +15 which we have from our proximity to a Dutch province.

Noticing that we have colonists available, we sent three groups to Table, Transkei and Niassa. We have insufficient funds to send the last one but will direct 50% of our income to treasury to allow another group to be sent later.

We move domestic policy to narrowmindedness to improve our supply of future colonists.

We are successful in establishing colonies in Table and Transkei but fail in Niassa. Another group of colonists are sent to Niassa in June. It is successfully established in August.

In October 1620, we receive another colonist and send this to Zambezia to claim the coastland nearest to our capital. It is established in December.

In March 1621, we suffer a revolt among many of the more powerful lesser chiefs. We adopt to punish our rebellious subjects (OOC: Stab –4, Revolt risk +4, Revolts in Zimbabwe, Chibuene and Rozwi. Centralisation +1, Aristocracy –1). We are not, it seems alone in our troubles as France decides to crush the state within the state in their wars of religion.

Nevertheless, we shall deal with our own problems and divert funds to recover stability and crush the revolt in Zambezia where our new colony has been captured by the rebels.

By May 1621, we have recaptured Zambezia and defeated the rebels in Rozwi. With stability now back to zero, we revert to our original investment pattern with income diverted 50:50 between infrastructure and treasury. By August, the rebels are crushed in Chibuene.

Another group of colonists arrive in May 1622 and they are sent to Nampuia. It is successfully established in July. By August, our stability is back up to maximum.

At the end of 1622, our great chief Gatsi dies and he is replaced in January by Nyambo, a chief of no great skill.

In March 1623, France join Genoa in a war against Aragon, Spain and Portugal. Then in April, they join Genoa in a war against Bavaria and Austria.

By September, the Netherlands have expanded Karroo to a city level.

Finally, it is time to leave. Zimbabwe is making steady, but slow progress but still knows little of the world. Income from goods production and trade have increased healthily while our land has now expanded greatly and treasury funds are very high at 437D. My objective next time will be to expand our southern provinces to cities and then to fortify them as defense against any foreign aggression. We are still many years from having the ability to build refineries, let alone promote legal counsels so excess funds will always be available to colonise and fortify. Judging from the AI’s typical investment, I anticipate land tech 5 will be reached before I return.

Now to Dakota and war against France

**

The first thing I notice is that Mobile is now an English colony which we must have ceded to them in a previous war. Worse still, we also ceded to them Detroit, Superior and Nipigon. Imbeciles!!

We are also at war both with France and with Denmark. As usual our allies just stand about doing nothing apart from standing around in the most inconvenient places. Our armies are forced to march through their territories dying of attrition. The Danes have gained control of Powhatan and have an army of 24000 marching on Tuscarora. Another mixed Franco/Danish force is following them from Chesapeake. With land tech of 16 and 17 respectively against our own 2, this is not going to be fun.

Oh, and I almost forgot to point out that, typical of the Dakotans, I have been at war for many years and my non-core province war exhaustion is +6 and stability at +1.

By March we have 16100 infantry and 9500 cavalry in Irondekoit awaiting the arrival of the Danes in Tuscarora. They seem to be stuck in Powhatan, no doubt having no knowledge of Tuscarora, and their troops now number 36000. I really wish I could suffer negative attrition such as this

The French capture Biloxi in April and, in May, the Danes besiege Tuscarora with just 6000 infantry and 1900 cavalry so we lead a force of 16900 infantry and 7500 cavalry against them. We lose almost 3000 infantry and 600 cavalry in a quick defeat as a larger body of troops arrive from the south. I believe their losses were great although our troops will suffer attrition losses on the return to Irondekoit.

By September we have captured the French colonies of Stadacone, Shawnigan, Laurentia and Bas-st-Laurent in a lightning raid. With Biloxi retaken (up to +4%), we offer France a white peace but they refuse. How typical of the French Our fleet sails from Matagorda to teach the French a lesson in modesty.

In December, Stadacone revolts and possession returns to France. Our cavalry must return to retake the province. In Mobile bay, our navy of 21 warships meets 2 French warships but we are driven away as the French employ such dishonourable methods as using vastly superior weaponry to our own. I begin to wonder what the AI was up to in building such a pathetic navy.

We lose a second battle in January but succeed in sinking a French warship. No doubt we used the tactic of boarding it until it sank under the weight of people on board.

In February, rebels rise up in Onondaga and Tuscarora and attack the Danish invaders. The Danish succeed in maintaining their siege and we attack them in February with (16300/7700/-) against (6850/1360/-). We lose a similar number to our previous battle and the Danes lose about the same. Hopefully they will have insufficient force to maintain the siege. We are not to be so lucky as Danish reinforcements arrive and succeed in capturing Tuscarora.

We drive the rebels from Onondaga on our second attempt and then return to Tuscarora where a large Danish force is positioned. We lose two battles to them but managed to kill many of their men. All the same, by April 1626, our local army is now down to 9000 infantry and 5000 cavalry. We raise more troops in our core provinces to drive away the invaders. By now the Danes are demanding Bayou, Biloxi and Powhatan for peace. I am starting to think of adopting this European god as one of our own. Alternatively, perhaps one of our warriors might try to capture one of these guns that the Europeans use. After all, it surely can’t be that difficult. Our army experts confidently predict that we will have the same technology in around 2000 years. I am not sure our people will be able to stand for a war lasting this long.

(OOC: How is it that the Danes can explore without a leader )

After many peace offers from Denmark, they finally decide to offer us peace for 28D and military access. We agree to these demands and send our troops to Tuscarora to deny the Danes there any food. At the same time we offer the French a white peace which they accept

The next years are to be spent raising money to fortify our border provinces. However, we do not forget to send a gift to Norway as a mark of thank you for their earlier gift.

Throughout the year, we track Danish troops in our lands in order to deny them food and starve them to death. I am not a bitter person

In January, England pays 50D to Huron for peace. How did they do that? England then declare war on Lenape who are joined in the war by the Iroquois.

In August 1628, we expand our fortifications in Powhatan.

Towards the end of the year, two letters are sent to Norway (+172) before I leave Dakota to their own fate. I’ll have to admit that it is getting to be no fun fighting against the AI. Even the rebels have better weapons than me. Even so, I seem to have come out unscathed from this little scrap but don’t expect much of when I return.

 

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Originally posted by Lionheart
MrT: I had to decommission those troops because my income was not sufficient even to support them. This was the reason why, after going bankrupt, another loan was taken automatically and thus making the second bankruptcy a foregone conclusion. Second time round, and with trade income improved, I could handle the cost but maintenance was still around 20-30% of monthly income.

Oh I know why you did it. I would have too, but my own experiences with multicountry games lead me to guess that as soon as you leave the AI to its own devices again it'll go into "troop-building-frenzy-mode" and build 'em all up again.

We lose a second battle in January but succeed in sinking a French warship. No doubt we used the tactic of boarding it until it sank under the weight of people on board.

LOL! There's a good tactic for you.

(OOC: How is it that the Danes can explore without a leader )

Possibly because, being at war with you, they are allowed to march towards your capital even if there are provinces in the way that they haven't explored. They move very slowly but will eventually explore the territory.

 

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Originally posted by MrT


Possibly because, being at war with you, they are allowed to march towards your capital even if there are provinces in the way that they haven't explored. They move very slowly but will eventually explore the territory.

Now that's something I didn't know.

btw. Seems like you also know how the AI works. That Norwegian bankruptcy wasn't the last.

 

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The biggest change I notice on returning to Tibet is that our land technology has increased to Level 9. We can now fight at a significant advantage over most of the local nations. Orissa, Delhi and Hyderabad have slightly higher technology with the former on the verge of discovering musket technology. China have already achieved this level. Compared to European nations we are still one full level below all the main players and two levels below Sweden.

We still retain all our earlier conquests although funds are a little low and army strength is little over 18000 and divided between our two separate regions, the larger part being based in the inland provinces of South East Asia.

Our first objective must be to improve the fortifications in the rebel prone provinces of Kachin and Santal. Funds are divided 50:50 between infrastructure and treasury. We raise troops in our core provinces to guard against rebellions.

In February 1629, Denmark cede the provinces of Connecticut, Isle Royale, Roanoke, Tassaret. Bangor and Eiriksfjord to Spain as part of a peace agreement.

In June we move to freer subjects (+1)

Throughout 1629, wars end in Europe and new ones begin. France and Netherlands each declare war on different African nations: Kongo and Songhai respectively. Spain declare war again on Maya. We have not heard of any of these nations.

In December 1629, we notice that Bombay appears to be free of natives. We send traders there and discover that the Portuguese are attempting to clear it. They fail. Around the same time, Khmer become vassals of Dai Viet.

In February 1630, we establish a trade post in Bombay. The natives there are hostile and numerous and we do not expect it to last a long time. However, the rich income from trade will go to Delhi where we have a 25% market share. Together with trade taxes, it will repay the investment in less than five years. It may also serve as a little distraction should we find ourselves at war with the Bengal alliance. For now it helps us keep an eye on their westernmost provinces.

In June 1630, we begin our fortification expansion in Santal.

In August 1630, leading members of the nobility demand their old privileges. We agree to their demands (Centralisation –1)

In December, we send a trader to Trivandum to claim yet more land for Tibet. It is successfully established in February.

In February 1631, we arrange Royal Marriages with Ayutthaya and with the Moslem states of the Ottoman Empire, Oman and Persia.

In April of the same year, news arrives from Europe that Pommern have ceded Hinterpommern to Venice for peace. Judging from the religious tolerance that Venice shows to its Protestant subjects, we doubt that they will hold this for long.

By July, as fortifications are completed in Santal, we notice that nationalism there and in Kachin have reduced (1%). Nationalism has now gone in Bago, the last of our conquests in the east. In the same month, Ayutthaya declare war on Dai Viet and asks for our support. It is an ideal opportunity to extend our provinces in the region, if possible to gain a port, so we gladly agree. Our forces in Lhasa march towards the Ayutthaya province of Irrawaddy while our army of 14500 in Bago march on Yunnan to surprise the small defending force of Dai Viet. Our total forces are about equal to those of Dai Viet and our land technology is a level higher. We also raise infantry and cavalry across our kingdom.

In the same month, news arrives that England have gained the provinces of Catskill, Michilimakinak and Niagara in a peace agreement with the Lenape tribe. Two weeks later, England declare war on the Dakota tribe

By August, troop movements of the Dai Viet force us to change our plans a little and our armies in South East Asia split up to launch attacks on Kwai and Laos. We besiege Kwai in August and are attacked in Mekong at the end of the month by 12200 Dai Viet infantry against 8200 of our own. We crush them after losing less than 200 men to their losses of over 4500. (For once the tech advantage is with me )

As new troops arrive in September we start to cast cannon in South East Asia. By the end of September, Laos is besieged.

In October, Crimea offer peace after being crushed by the Russians, in addition to giving military access and indemnities, they are also forced to cede Kalmuk, Krementjug and Azow in the settlement to the Russians. In the same month, our siege force in Laos defeats a small Dai Viet recruit army in the province.

In January 1632, our Lhasa forces have arrived in Mekong and 12600 infantry and 880 cavalry swoop onto the small Dai Viet forces protecting Tang Noah. New cannon arrive in Mekong shortly afterwards and are joined by reinforcements from Tibet. The Dai Viet army in Tang Noah is crushed and our army marches south to Da Nang.

In February, a rebel force rises up in Laos but is insufficient to upset our siege. Meanwhile, our siege force in Laos is supplemented by a large Ayutthaya force. Attrition will hurt them badly but we maintain control of the siege itself. Also in February, we win a second battle against a small Dai Viet force in Tang Noah.

In March we lay siege to Da Nang after winning a third battle against Dai Viet in Tang Noah.

Finally in April, the main Dai Viet army under Trinh Trang marches from Hanoi. It numbers some 26000 men and we presume it will attack Mekong. Our forces defending the province number 6700 infantry, 950 cavalry and 20 cannon. In battle their force consisted of 20000 infantry and 5600 cavalry. They were quickly defeated with losses of nearly 2000 infantry and 350 cavalry. Our losses in battle were less than 500. What is even worse for the Dai Viet is that they lose almost twice the number to attrition than they lost in battle.

By the end of May, we capture Laos and move south to Cambodia. Part of our army in Mekong follows behind to bring cannon against the walls.

In June, Aragon, and their allies Spain and Portugal, declare war on the Netherlands. In the same month, the Mughal Empire decide to build a great mausoleum to be called the Taj Mahal. Their original location, near the city of Agra, is based in land owned by Delhi so I presume they will end up building it in the mountains near Kabul.

We defeat two Dai Viet armies in Cambodia before besieging the province. In July, Dai Viet offer us 100D for peace which we reject. We do, however, accept a white peace with Khmer. In August, our cannon arrive in Cambodia and a full siege commences. In the same month, Kwai capitulates to our siege force, releasing just 2000 of our men to the main Dai Viet front. Trinh Trang is seen heading south with the larger part of his army. The decision is made to launch a raid on Hanoi.

In October, Dai Viet forces are driven from Hanoi and the capital is besieged. Trinh Trang is seen heading towards Da Nang. In a brief battle they are driven away but with serious losses on our side. Our siege force will need to be reinforced to continue to function.

In November, Persia go bankrupt and Hanover rebels break the government. The year ends with news that Austria has declared war on the Ottoman Empire

1633 begins with another victory in Da Nang over Trinh Trang’s army. They suffer minor losses but our attrition is high. We continue to filter troops into Da Nang to maintain a siege as the Dai Viet persistently try to break the siege. All they succeed in doing is to add to the total number of victories we have won (Peace % at 31% with only 14% needed for Laos and Kwai)

In April, Dai Viet offer us Laos, Kwai and Tanh Noah but we decline since none of these provinces offer us a port. Perhaps a little risky since we have only eight months now to force a peace. Hanoi itself is resisting our siege but Cambodia is now at 0 and Da Nang at –4.

In September, Sibir accepts a great defeat to Russia and cedes the lands of Turkmenistan, Alga, Karabogaz, Bouzatchi, Kurgan and Irgiz in a peace agreement.

By October, we are losing the battle to maintain a viable siege in Da Nang although we have won many battles against the Dai Viet in the same period. When they offer us again the provinces of Tang Noah, Laos and Khmer, we decide it better to accept the terms before we are unable to do so. Our armies return to defend the new provinces.

When the five year period ends, Tibet has once again extended its territories which now number 16. There are still six of these with minimal fortresses and one of these is Moslem. Our monthly income is now 28.5D which, although only 30% higher than the position 40 years earlier, consists of more taxation and production income than our earlier, trade-dependent economy. We have also now recruited a small cannon force into our army although I wonder if the AI will use these well.

Whether they do or not is for me to find out in 15 years. In the meantime, I must return to the poverty stricken country that is Norway.

 

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Norway 1634-38

It is a familiar, and rather boring sight when I get back to Norway. Almost nothing has changed and we have an army of 7000 infantry, 6000 cavalry and 19 cannon in Bergenshus. Our trade post in Massachussets is still there and our colony in Nandewar has now grown to 541 people. It will take around 10 years for this to grow naturally to a city.

There are a few encouraging signs. Our trading position has improved and we have no outstanding loans. I still anticipate our maintenance costs to be almost crippling but, with 88D in treasury we are not entirely without funds. Not surprisingly, our inflation has come back down to levels seen in other countries (at 26%)

We are also not at war and the prospect of war with Denmark, against whom we have a permanent CB, is not at all enticing given the small or medium fortresses that the Danish provinces have. Nonetheless, we are on the verge of increasing our land tech level to one above the Danes. Then may be an opportune time to strike.

Our first move is to move towards more centralisation.

Little happens in the first years apart from trading wars to gain shares in Ile-de-France and Andalusia. Ultimately we only succeed in spending money on merchants and are also banned from Spanish trading centres.

In December 1635, rebels in Munster defect to join Eire.

In January 1636, Poland annexes Pommern to recover some of its german losses in the past 50 years. Another merchant is sent to Paris and gains a 5% share of the market for about 3 hours!! – that’s game time

Persia goes bankrupt in February and it appears that they are in a massive debt trap.

In May, Scotland declare war on Eire. Genoa and Denmark support Eire while Sweden and ourselves support Scotland. We shall not fight against Eire but against Denmark and most of our forces march on Trondelag. We also raise war taxes and take a loan which is used to recruit another 6000 infantry in Bergenshus.

By February, our forces in Trondelag have been suffering serious attrition when our land technology increases (Level 18 and new CRT)

By September we have won several battles against Denmark and are just able to maintain a siege of Trondheim whose walls remain solid (1) after over a year. As winter approaches I am not relishing the prospect of a further 2500 dying each month to the cold. By the end of March, we are unable to maintain a full siege og Trondheim but succeed in repelling all the Danish attacks.

In June the Danes finally succeed in breaking the siege. We must now return to Bergenshus with little to show for our efforts apart from many dead Norwegians and a bank loan of 200D.

In October 1638, the Mameluks lose Tunisia, Medina and Alexandria to the Ottoman Empire when peace is finally agreed between the two heathen nations.

In December, Dakota pays reparations to England in a peace settlement despite the fact that the former were the agressors. England immediately declare war on Lenape.

I leave Norway in control of all their territories and with a slight advantage in the war against Denmark. Perhaps we will gain some reparations or perhaps the machine will send me on a cycle of bankruptcy in order to prosecute the war. So many possibilities

 

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Seeing that I'm now almost 60 years ahead in the game, I'll post a few updates in the next hour or so.

 

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Zimbabwe1639-1643 and Dakota1644-1648

Sure enough, Zimbabwe has now reached land tech 5 and has a batch of colonists to send out. Money is fairly respectable and our army size is large. We also have a conquistador so troops are sent to support him in his explorations to the north.

We send colonists to Table (Level 1) and Ciskei (Level 2) and move domestic policy away from mercantilism (+3). Ciskei expands in March but the expedition to Table is lost. Another is sent to Table and this expands in May. Further groups are quickly sent.

Thabo leads a force of 7500 infantry and 2500 cavalry north from Niassa. By September he discovers and clears Mtawa provinces although we have no colonists to send now as the last is sent to the growing colony in Table. More colonists arrive in December and are sent to Mtawa.

In January 1640, we discover a Persian trade post in Lindi. We also find the Persian capital and trading centre in Isfahan where merchants are sent.

In February we establish a new colony in Mtawa. We briefly consider declaring war on Persia and burning their trade post. This will allow our explorer to venture north and explore more. However, there is a grave risk that we will be bettered by Omani and Persian forces in the region. Since we suffer a significant disadvantage at a tech level, we will run a clear risk of being overrun. Nevertheless, we shall be brave. To waste an explorer is criminal. We shall first wait to expand Table to a city before we progress. While we are waiting we shall recruit troops to defend our core provinces.

In February 1640 we agree to a sale of offices (+100D, -1 tax value in Rozwi, +3 inflation )

In August, our plans go awry as Netherlands declare war on us. Table province is quickly captured and their forces move east to capture Ciskei. Our main armies collect to repel and crush the invaders. Thabo will control around 23000 men in Natal while a second army of 24000 will wait in Chibuene. A third army is now recruited in Zimbabwe.

After waiting many months for the Dutch to take Ciskei, Thabo attacks them in Karroo with 16800 infantry and 6625 cavalry. He meets an army of 3523 infantry, 7420 cavalry and 10 cannon. Despite our major technological disadvantage, the battle rages for many weeks but he is finally defeated having lost over 5000 infantry and 1000 cavalry. The Dutch have lost 700 infantry and 100 cavalry.

On returning to Ciskei he is reinforced by troops from the north and further armies are sent to cover Transkei province as more armies are recruited in Zimbabwe.

Thabo leads another force of (20704/10807/-) against Netherlands in Karroo in May where their forces number now (5167/7289/10). This time we kill over 2800 infantry and 400 cavalry as well as destroying one of their cannon. Our losses are severe with over 7000 infantry and 1300 cavalry lost.

In October, Thabo finally wins a great victory over the Dutch invaders and lays siege to Karroo. A second cavalry group are sent to recapture Table province. We defeat a recruit force in Karroo in December and hear that Dakota have paid indemnities to France for peace. Does this mean that I shall find them at peace when I return. Sadly not as it appears that they are still at war with Denmark.

In January 1643, we recapture Table and immediately send a colonial party. It expands to a city and we fortify the province in May. At this time news arrives that Creek have ceded Savannah and paid 1042D to France for peace

Thabo captures Karroo in May and his forces march to Table province. We offer Netherlands peace in return for Karroo but they reject us. Unfortunately, the Dutch believe that their two victories were worth more than our own In August they offer us peace in return for us paying them 25D. We decide that discretion would be the better course of valour and agree: we have plenty of money and soldiers are cheap

In August Thabo discovers Bushman province but we have, as yet, insufficient funds for us to send a colonial party. All money is diverted to treasury and colonists are sent to Bushman in November and to Ciskei in December. We will not know for a while if they succeed.

**

Well it seems that we are still at war with Denmark and the revolt risk in our Iroquois territories is at 9%. If there is some good news, it is that we have reasonable large armies, retain control of all our provinces and have not got any outstanding loans.

We are also on the verge of breaking land technology level 3 . This will make us by far the most advanced of the North American Indian tribes.

Our first action is to divert troops towards Powhatan where they will attack the Danes in Chesapeake.

In February, our requirement for Land Tech 3 suddenly jumps over 1000D, thus delaying its discovery until 1651. We switch towards innovation which brings this back to June 1645.

Early in February, Denmark demands 50D from us as their price for peace. We reject their offer and continue building cavalry in the east. A force of 13500 infantry and 3700 cavalry march on Chesapeake. Colonists are sent to Mississippi to complete the link of provinces between the North and South.

Our force attacks 1000 Danish infantry in Chesapeake and slaughter them with little loss on our side. The Danish colony in Chesapeake is captured.

In June, we send our demand to Denamrk for 125D in exchange for peace. They reject the most generous offer. The Maya pay Spain 75D in indemnities.

Our first colonial attempt in Mississippi fails but a second succeeds in establishing a colony in July.

In November 1644, Crimea are annexed by Russia.

During 1645, we suffer several revolts and lose control of Powhatan to rebels. Despite the recapture of Powhatan, the rebellions continue during the spring and we decide to agree peace with Denmark at a cost of 25D.

In August we reach land tech 3. The news is swiftly followed by a declaration of war by Creek on Cherokee. We agree to support the Creek tribe but must first clear our lands of rebel elements.

Somewhat ironically, we find that Denmark offer to guarantee our independence in September.

In January 1646, we clear our lands of rebels and, with funds flush from annual census taxes, we send a personal gift to Norway. It is well received and they now consider us to be very dear friends.

In October we receive a diplomatic insult from the Aztec Empire. Since our relations with them are very strong, we choose not to react to this. The war with Cherokee continues with Creek and Cherokee armies pulling faces at each other across their common border. We decide our attention is needed elsewhere and commission cavalry from north to south of our empire.

In February 1647, we send a declaration of war on England to reclaim former Dakota lands. Dakota cavalry are quickly sent to occupy these provinces. Within a month, England agree to cede the provinces of Detroit and Catskill. It is a great victory and sweet revenge for past losses to the hated English.

We leave troops in Detroit to defend against rebellions since the population there are predominantly English although Catskill remains, culturally speaking, Dakotan. Detroit will be fortified once the troops are in place to defend against the surly English. The work begins in May to build basic fortifications for Detroit.

In June, Sibir settles with Russia paying 166D in indemnities and ceding the provinces of Kara Kum, Ust Urt, Sadrinsk, Orsk and Kustanai. Sibit also agree to give Russia military access to what remains of their lands.

The English choose the same month to declare war on the Creeks and we agree to fight with our North American brothers. Sadly our forces are not in position for such a speedy victory as previously. We will now be unable to disrupt the troop raising from England in Mobile.

In July we have trouble amongst Dakotan artisans and are forced to execute the troublemakers (-200D to Infra).

By August, I am proved wrong as our fast moving cavalry from Matagorda are quickly able to capture Mobile before English troops arrive. When Superior is captured in the same month, we now occupy Mobile, Superior, Niagara, Nipigon and Michilimakinak. We send England a generous offer requesting only that they relinquish to us the control of Nipigon (6% v 17%). They reject our offer immediately. They reject a far less generous offer in September when we demand Superior and 200D.

December brings revolts in Detroit and Tuscarora as we are defeated off the coast of Matagorda when two English warships force our navy of 21 warships to retreat.

In May 1648, the Cherokee lands are annexed by France and the European threat continues to wax in North America. They follow this up with a declaration of war on the Shawnee.

In September we claim new land in Onondaga (Population +2000, Tax value +1, Manpower +1)

In December, we send a vastly moderated offer to England requesting only 100D. They reject us yet again.

And this is where I must leave Dakota to fend for itself. War percentage is at +16 and troops levels are high with over 40000 men including almost 10000 cavalry. Treasury funds are at 277D so I imagine that the AI will raise troops - and ships - the minute my back is turned.

 

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Returning to Tibet I find our province of Santal has been lost to a newly reformed Arakan nation. Several other provinces have changed hands with Delhi now stretching from Howrah to the Straits of Ormuz. Ayutthaya has lost provinces to Arakan and Assam and is now at war with Arakan.

Technologically, we have advanced to land tech 11 and infra level 4. We can now promote legal counsels and build medium fortresses. Our land tech is slightly higher than our neighbours with the notable exceptions of China and Delhi who are several tech levels ahead.

We also have a conquistador by the name of Ho who is in Tanh Noah. He would serve us only to discover neighbouring border provinces to our North East towards the Manchu kingdom Given their low land tech, perhaps we could use a war to gain further maps to the region. The other use for Ho will, of course, be to improve supply while besieging tropical mountain provinces. Unfortunately, I have no way of transferring him to the north for exploration with military access to Ayutthaya with whom relations are poor.

It seems to me that the only rational way forward is a war with Ayutthaya and Assam While this will not link our eastern and national provinces, it may yet gain us a port and several more Buddhist provinces. Troops are raised across the eastern part of the kingdom while those in the west are moved to the Assam border.

We first move a policy slider towards freer subjects (+2)

On January 5th, the Netherlands declare war on Zimbabwe. Throughout the first half of the year, news arrives of further wars in Europe while we deal with rebels in Laos. They are finally defeated in June and the declaration of war is sent to Ayutthaya. Ho leads a cavalry force to the north to join with a siege force heading towards Assam. A force of 10400 infantry and 44 cannon move south to capture the Ayutthaya capital in Bangkok.

Assam is besieged in July by 5900 infantry but we are quickly attacked by an Assam force of 14800 infantry and 1550 cavalry. Around the same time our army in the east attacks an Ayutthaya force of 4960 in Bangkok. Ho arrives in Assam too late to join battle and so we retreat. He then decides to fight and must also retreat north. Our losses were low but attrition is a greater enemy and over 1500 troops are lost. We also suffer an embarrassing defeat in Bangkok and are forced to retreat back to Laos. By the end of July, Dai Viet and Khmer declare war on Ayutthaya and Assam.

In September, a larger force returns to Assam and faced similar numbers of Assam forces. After a month of fighting, Assam troops are defeated and retreat to Chin. We lay siege to the capital and bring cannon in from Tibet to help the siege. By December the cannon have arrived as news also reaches us that Spain have ceded Trinidad and Tobago to the Netherlands. At the end of the year, our defeated army from Bangkok are brought round to begin a siege in Irrawaddy.

In February 1650, China declare war on Dai Viet. We now find ourselves at war with China and Malacca and so we bring to an end our war with Assam in a white peace. China itself is suffering severe unrest with rebels and so we can take advantage of their weakness by attacking at our common border.

By March, Ho has completed his explorations in the north and we have maps for a land route to the Manchu capital. For now we shall use him in the Chinese war. By late April, Sichuan Pendi is besieged by a force of 12800 infantry and 5 cannon.

In May, unhappiness amongst the peasantry causes unrest (+3 revolt risk) and a revolt in Gangdise. This is followed in June by a revolt in Qilian Pendi. A small Chinese force is defeated in Sichuan Pendi as an Ayutthaya siege in Kwai starts to damage the walls. Their siege force is too large for us to attack at the moment. We shall bide our time.

By July, the situation in Kwai has deteriorated (-4). We send in a force of 8200 infantry and 980 cavalry against their siege force of 12900 infantry and 54 cannon. Our armies clash in August as a force of 40 Chinese cannon make a failed attempt to break the siege of Sichuan Pendi. For our part, we fail to break the siege in Kwai although the Ayutthaya troops have suffered heavy losses.

In September, Ayutthaya offer us peace for 3D. Having accepted that we are unlikely to gain anything from this war – Ayutthaya forces numver over 20000 men in the region – we decide to accept this offer and allow ourselves to concentrate on the Chinese war. It is not without reason as a large Chinese army of 25000 drives away our siege army in Sichuan Pendi.

By January 1651, our forces from the Chinese front are brought to bear on the Qilian Pendi rebels who are soundly defeated.

In April, we cast abandon to the wind and declare war on Manchu. Stability falls to –3 with revolts already in Nepal, Tanh Noah and Gangdise. Ho’s forces march for the capital as troops from the south are also brought north to support the attack. The first combat takes place in Shanxi province when 6600 Manchu cavalry attack our siege army of 9330 infantry and 13 cannon. Our army is crushed and we are forced to break a newly formed siege on Xining to save our strength for any counterattack. Meanwhile, Ho has charted Shaanxi province to the south. When Manchu offer us peace we quickly accept and allow Ho to continue his explorations.

In September, Mekong revolts and the fortress is captured by rebels. We are forced to retreat and must bring further troops through China now to relieve the city.

In October, stability recovers again to –2. Revolt risk in non-core provinces in now down to 3% - except in territories bordering Mekong where it is 5%

In January 1652, we are saddened by the news of Ho’s death in Manchu after exploring the southern provinces of the land. We had hoped that he would venture north to discover unknown, and unclaimed. lands but it was not to be.

After breaking the siege in Tanh Noah a Chinese force occupies Mekong and begins a siege. When they demand from us 50D we accept and are finally at peace again. Mekong is finally captured in November and we return to the semblance of peace – short of nationalist attacks, that we experienced just three years earlier.

1653 brings us much better news as locals in Kachin decide to build a weapons manufactory to utilise the iron ore found in the region. A most welcome piece of news and we will work to expand the fortifications to thank the citizens of the province for their gesture.

In March 1653, the European Catholic church adopted the Edict of Tolerance which cancelled what was known as the Treaty of Tordesillas. It is of little concern to us.

In May, our stability increases again as we also notice a marked decrease in nationalism in Laos, Kwai and Tanh Noah (to +1%)

In June, Dakota pay England 200D for peace mad: but it could have been worse. Niagara and Catskill are still Dakotan)

In September, we begin work on expanding the fortifications in Kachin. Our last move of the year is to expand our share of markets in Samarkand and Muscate. Tibet is left in much the same position as I found it. There was little to get excited about and we have merely maintained the status quo while improving our maps slightly.