Greater Sweden is forming fast.
Question on reforming: How can you reform two faiths? Converting after reforming?
Question on reforming: How can you reform two faiths? Converting after reforming?
Frozen Shores (MegaCampaign)
- Thread starter Me0334
- Start date
-
We have updated our Community Code of Conduct. Please read through the new rules for the forum that are an integral part of Paradox Interactive’s User Agreement.
That should work yes, or possibly giving a vassal the holy sites and hoping they reform it. Not to sure if you need to be independent or not though so it could prove some problems.Greater Sweden is forming fast.
The Tragedy of Olaf I
With Ofeig's passing the throne passed to Olaf. Olaf had waited long and patiently for this moment to come, he had thought many times before about speeding up his fathers death but never actually got around to it. However Unfourtently for Olaf he took part in the 2nd war for Saaremaa, although the war didn't last long Olaf still had enough time to take part in the landing at Saaremaa. During the battle Olaf proved that he would have what it took to be king, however just moments before the fight ended, a stray arrow from a Swedish archer hit his horse causing it to rear up, and knocking Olaf off. When Olaf fell he hit his head hard enough on a rock nearby that he was knocked into a minor coma.
Once Olaf woke up a few weeks later his father was already dead and he had been pronounced king. However to his council's concern he could do less then a child that had only seen 2 summers. Due to this they pronounced his son Olaf II regent.
Out of respect for his Father Olaf II decided that a Runestone would be carved, so that Olaf I would not be forgotten in history.
Not even a year into his reign Olaf I went into repose at the age of 49 and died. May the gods be kinder on his son Olaf II.
With Ofeig's passing the throne passed to Olaf. Olaf had waited long and patiently for this moment to come, he had thought many times before about speeding up his fathers death but never actually got around to it. However Unfourtently for Olaf he took part in the 2nd war for Saaremaa, although the war didn't last long Olaf still had enough time to take part in the landing at Saaremaa. During the battle Olaf proved that he would have what it took to be king, however just moments before the fight ended, a stray arrow from a Swedish archer hit his horse causing it to rear up, and knocking Olaf off. When Olaf fell he hit his head hard enough on a rock nearby that he was knocked into a minor coma.
Once Olaf woke up a few weeks later his father was already dead and he had been pronounced king. However to his council's concern he could do less then a child that had only seen 2 summers. Due to this they pronounced his son Olaf II regent.
Out of respect for his Father Olaf II decided that a Runestone would be carved, so that Olaf I would not be forgotten in history.
Not even a year into his reign Olaf I went into repose at the age of 49 and died. May the gods be kinder on his son Olaf II.
So I though I should do a World Update. Just kidding there's been hardly any changes at all.
What I'm really here to ask is a suggestion on photo sharing as right now I am using Photobucket which although it works ok, I would be interested to hear what any fellow AARers use.
In order to keep this AAR about the AAR could you please send me a pm instead of replying here for photo sharing suggestions, and thanks in advance to any.
Also about the thread I may be posting the first chapter of Olaf II later tonight if I get time but no promises, as I know it was rather short and uneventful but because of the way I've structured the chapters I didn't want to put it as part of Olaf II (although he was technically ruling).
What I'm really here to ask is a suggestion on photo sharing as right now I am using Photobucket which although it works ok, I would be interested to hear what any fellow AARers use.
In order to keep this AAR about the AAR could you please send me a pm instead of replying here for photo sharing suggestions, and thanks in advance to any.
Also about the thread I may be posting the first chapter of Olaf II later tonight if I get time but no promises, as I know it was rather short and uneventful but because of the way I've structured the chapters I didn't want to put it as part of Olaf II (although he was technically ruling).
The Attack on Sweden
Olaf II finally was crown, even though he had been the ruling regent during his father's reign. Although some thought Olaf II quite odd for he had married a distant relative of his, and instead of studying war he studied the Allfather's teachings, they still respected him. At least that is what he was told.
To start his reign Olaf II went to the Chieftess in Vasterbotten, who also happened to be the last living member of the house Magga, after Ofeig's slaughter in the North. While there he managed to persuade her to peacefully join the realm so that she may morn her family in peace, and perhaps even revive the Magga dynasty with her children.
Next Olaf II decided that he should finish his grandfathers work in Finland, to do this he declared a subjugation war against the Kola tribe which had managed to control the majority of the remaining territories. With 4000 Vassal troops heading to fight the free Finns Olaf II, decided that he would be able to look at what about Christianity, had captivated so many of the old Germanic realms including even a few in his court.
To Olaf's shock the Danish king declared a holy war for the duchy of Västergötland. With his Vassal's forces having just attacked the Finnish host, Olaf was forced to raise his own personal levis. The battle at St. Michael in Finland was a great success, completely decimating Kola's army. With this battle over the Vassal host was ordered to meet up with Olaf's host.
While Olaf assembled his forces in Varend a large Danish host managed to catch them before they could retreat farther inland. Being outflanked and outnumbered Olaf II sent word to hire the Lappish band in hopes that it could arrive in time. Quickly though Olaf was forced to retreat, having had his army devastated before either the Vassal's or the Mercs could arrive.
Before being forced to flee even Lackö Olaf II sent his family into hiding. Hoping that they would be able to evade the Danish and now Norwegian forces, if they managed to capture Lackö before Olaf returned. Just before Olaf left, word spread that the Shi'a caliph had declared jihad for Africa.
Finally the Mercs, Vassals, and Olaf had met up and with there combined strength managed to muster 6200 Warriors. With news that Lackö was about to fall and that the Danish and Norwegian armies had split in order to better sustain there forces, the combined Swedish host attacked the Danish host of 1900. Seeing his ally in danger the Norwegian king sent his nearby host to reinforce the Danes.
When the Norwegians finally did arrive it was already too late despite the Danish king finding an area to hold out. For the battle was soon over brining a much needed victory to the Swedes. With the enemy routed they were easy to pick off group by group until they posed no significant danger.
While eliminating any remaining host's, Olaf heard that both the Jihad for Africa, and Syria had failed, and that the pope had called for a crusade for Jerusalem. With some of Olaf's vassals using there own personal levis to defend against the Finns he figured he could hold out on the white peace proposed by the Danish king and started sieging down his holdings.
Eventually the Danish king managed to convince the Bohemian king to send up 1000 Warriors, in the hopes that they would be enough alongside the remaining Danish, and Norwegian forces to crush the weakened Swedish force now numbering around 3500. When spies told Olaf that the Bohemians would try to cross into Skane he was able to send his host there were they won a great victory causing the Bohemian's to drop out of the war.
Interested in knowing more about his enemy Olaf II accepted the offer from the Kaiser of the Holy Roman Empire to have a priest teach them of Jesus, in the hopes that it would revel some sort of weakness to use against any future threats of holy wars.
Shortly after the war ended however with the Danish king's surrender, there was no time for celebrations however for there were still the Finnish to deal with.
Olaf II finally was crown, even though he had been the ruling regent during his father's reign. Although some thought Olaf II quite odd for he had married a distant relative of his, and instead of studying war he studied the Allfather's teachings, they still respected him. At least that is what he was told.
To start his reign Olaf II went to the Chieftess in Vasterbotten, who also happened to be the last living member of the house Magga, after Ofeig's slaughter in the North. While there he managed to persuade her to peacefully join the realm so that she may morn her family in peace, and perhaps even revive the Magga dynasty with her children.
Next Olaf II decided that he should finish his grandfathers work in Finland, to do this he declared a subjugation war against the Kola tribe which had managed to control the majority of the remaining territories. With 4000 Vassal troops heading to fight the free Finns Olaf II, decided that he would be able to look at what about Christianity, had captivated so many of the old Germanic realms including even a few in his court.
To Olaf's shock the Danish king declared a holy war for the duchy of Västergötland. With his Vassal's forces having just attacked the Finnish host, Olaf was forced to raise his own personal levis. The battle at St. Michael in Finland was a great success, completely decimating Kola's army. With this battle over the Vassal host was ordered to meet up with Olaf's host.
While Olaf assembled his forces in Varend a large Danish host managed to catch them before they could retreat farther inland. Being outflanked and outnumbered Olaf II sent word to hire the Lappish band in hopes that it could arrive in time. Quickly though Olaf was forced to retreat, having had his army devastated before either the Vassal's or the Mercs could arrive.
Before being forced to flee even Lackö Olaf II sent his family into hiding. Hoping that they would be able to evade the Danish and now Norwegian forces, if they managed to capture Lackö before Olaf returned. Just before Olaf left, word spread that the Shi'a caliph had declared jihad for Africa.
Finally the Mercs, Vassals, and Olaf had met up and with there combined strength managed to muster 6200 Warriors. With news that Lackö was about to fall and that the Danish and Norwegian armies had split in order to better sustain there forces, the combined Swedish host attacked the Danish host of 1900. Seeing his ally in danger the Norwegian king sent his nearby host to reinforce the Danes.
When the Norwegians finally did arrive it was already too late despite the Danish king finding an area to hold out. For the battle was soon over brining a much needed victory to the Swedes. With the enemy routed they were easy to pick off group by group until they posed no significant danger.
While eliminating any remaining host's, Olaf heard that both the Jihad for Africa, and Syria had failed, and that the pope had called for a crusade for Jerusalem. With some of Olaf's vassals using there own personal levis to defend against the Finns he figured he could hold out on the white peace proposed by the Danish king and started sieging down his holdings.
Eventually the Danish king managed to convince the Bohemian king to send up 1000 Warriors, in the hopes that they would be enough alongside the remaining Danish, and Norwegian forces to crush the weakened Swedish force now numbering around 3500. When spies told Olaf that the Bohemians would try to cross into Skane he was able to send his host there were they won a great victory causing the Bohemian's to drop out of the war.
Interested in knowing more about his enemy Olaf II accepted the offer from the Kaiser of the Holy Roman Empire to have a priest teach them of Jesus, in the hopes that it would revel some sort of weakness to use against any future threats of holy wars.
Shortly after the war ended however with the Danish king's surrender, there was no time for celebrations however for there were still the Finnish to deal with.
Please let me know how these pictures are, for most of them I've used imgur, and for two of them I still used photobucket but removed the link.
Opportunists
With the Victory over the Catholics, Olaf II thought it would be best to conserve his treasury and disbanded the Lappish Mercs. Shortly before he left to continue the war against the Finns, his own daughter approached him trying to convert him to follow Jesus. When asked why she had abandoned the Allfather she simply said that Wolfgang had shown her the errors in the Germanic beliefs. Angered by this Olaf II immediately had Wolfgang imprisoned.
With the Finnish having managed to call in allies it looked as though the war would last much longer then anyone wanted, still determined not to lose a war, Olaf II pushed on. It appeared that nothing had changed from the initial stages as the Finns simply had 1500 men sieging Raviola, and they were soon pushed out of Sweden.
During the advance Olaf II heard that his wife had born a son named Bagge. With that news also arrived a report about the merchants not being able to keep up the demands of the army, although a temporary solution was put in place it showed that the War could not go on much longer. The final peace of news that Olaf II would hear that day was of the crusade for Jerusalem failing.
During the siege of Kemi 3200 Finns managed to jump on the 1200 Swedes. The resulting battle was a disaster with the Finns approaching from multiple angles the Swedes could do nothing but fall back, which in the process they lost 700 and only killed 24.
With his forces shattered Olaf II sent word to the Finnish band that he had interest in hiring them. Almost as soon as the 2000 men from the Finnish band joined up with the remaining Swedish host, Tuulitar the Cheiftess of the Tavastians demanded independence. When it was refused she along with many of the Finnish Counts declared war.
With the Swedes being once again outnumbered by 1000 they moved to Uppland to hold out like they during the first independence war. Perhaps seeing this as there only chance peasants in Sodermanland declared a peasant revolt which managed to gather 2100 disgruntled peasants.
Once Aland fell the Finns jumped on the Swedes who by now had managed to replenish some of there troops. After many laid dead the right Swedish flank managed to push through to the left ending the battle. With the majority of the Finns defeated the Swedes jumped on the peasants hoping that there movement wouldn't spread any further. During this fight Olaf II almost managed to end up killed by just a common peasant, luckily for him though he was able to raise his weapon in time and defend him self.
After a few more fights against the peasants and Finns Olaf II was able to end any dreams the peasants had and begin his push into Finland. With his finances running low Olaf II ransomed many of the prisoners that they had captured in the past years and hired the Lithuanian Band in order to help end the wars faster. Before they could even set foot into Swedish Finland the war had ended under the terms of a white peace.
With none of the revolting Lords being taken prisoner Olaf II decided that the best way to try and keep them in order would be to put them under a Jarldom. This would hopefully allow Olaf II to better keep his direct Vassals in line while they dealt with there vassals. Olaf II should of waited to create the Jarldom however as it drained the remaining cash reserves, and with just one payment missed the Finnish band flipped sides and attacked the forces that had been fighting alongside.
As chaos erupted in the camp the armies were waiting at, with the treacherous Mercenaries outnumbering the Swedes by just 200, it appeared that hits would be the final battle of the war. Just before the first arrows were let loose and the first axes clashing, however the Merc Captain who had been at a meeting with Olaf drawed his sword, and tried cutting Olaf II down were he sat. Realizing that the Captain was going to be talking about funds Olaf II had prepared for the worse and was able to dodge the Captain's first swing.
As the battle began outside, Olaf and Susi slowly circled each other waiting for the perfect moment to attack. Finally Olaf saw a weak point and lunged at Susi. Surprised at Olaf's lunge Susi jumps backing forgetting that they were inside a tent, causing him to crash through the wall and fall to the ground. Not hesitating Olaf struck the final blow ending the traitorous captain's life.
Seeing that his forces were starting to lose the battle Olaf quickly cut of Susi's head and held it up for all to see, hoping it would demoralize the Mercs. It would seem that it succeeded as they began scattering, most likely due to the fact that they had no immediate leader then to actual fear of the Swedes. The battle was soon over with the Swedish managing to survive. However due to the disbandment of the Lithuanian band earlier on they now only had 760 Warriors. Knowing that he was defeated Olaf II surrendered to the High Chieftain of Kola.
With the Victory over the Catholics, Olaf II thought it would be best to conserve his treasury and disbanded the Lappish Mercs. Shortly before he left to continue the war against the Finns, his own daughter approached him trying to convert him to follow Jesus. When asked why she had abandoned the Allfather she simply said that Wolfgang had shown her the errors in the Germanic beliefs. Angered by this Olaf II immediately had Wolfgang imprisoned.
With the Finnish having managed to call in allies it looked as though the war would last much longer then anyone wanted, still determined not to lose a war, Olaf II pushed on. It appeared that nothing had changed from the initial stages as the Finns simply had 1500 men sieging Raviola, and they were soon pushed out of Sweden.
During the advance Olaf II heard that his wife had born a son named Bagge. With that news also arrived a report about the merchants not being able to keep up the demands of the army, although a temporary solution was put in place it showed that the War could not go on much longer. The final peace of news that Olaf II would hear that day was of the crusade for Jerusalem failing.
During the siege of Kemi 3200 Finns managed to jump on the 1200 Swedes. The resulting battle was a disaster with the Finns approaching from multiple angles the Swedes could do nothing but fall back, which in the process they lost 700 and only killed 24.
With his forces shattered Olaf II sent word to the Finnish band that he had interest in hiring them. Almost as soon as the 2000 men from the Finnish band joined up with the remaining Swedish host, Tuulitar the Cheiftess of the Tavastians demanded independence. When it was refused she along with many of the Finnish Counts declared war.
With the Swedes being once again outnumbered by 1000 they moved to Uppland to hold out like they during the first independence war. Perhaps seeing this as there only chance peasants in Sodermanland declared a peasant revolt which managed to gather 2100 disgruntled peasants.
Once Aland fell the Finns jumped on the Swedes who by now had managed to replenish some of there troops. After many laid dead the right Swedish flank managed to push through to the left ending the battle. With the majority of the Finns defeated the Swedes jumped on the peasants hoping that there movement wouldn't spread any further. During this fight Olaf II almost managed to end up killed by just a common peasant, luckily for him though he was able to raise his weapon in time and defend him self.
After a few more fights against the peasants and Finns Olaf II was able to end any dreams the peasants had and begin his push into Finland. With his finances running low Olaf II ransomed many of the prisoners that they had captured in the past years and hired the Lithuanian Band in order to help end the wars faster. Before they could even set foot into Swedish Finland the war had ended under the terms of a white peace.
With none of the revolting Lords being taken prisoner Olaf II decided that the best way to try and keep them in order would be to put them under a Jarldom. This would hopefully allow Olaf II to better keep his direct Vassals in line while they dealt with there vassals. Olaf II should of waited to create the Jarldom however as it drained the remaining cash reserves, and with just one payment missed the Finnish band flipped sides and attacked the forces that had been fighting alongside.
As chaos erupted in the camp the armies were waiting at, with the treacherous Mercenaries outnumbering the Swedes by just 200, it appeared that hits would be the final battle of the war. Just before the first arrows were let loose and the first axes clashing, however the Merc Captain who had been at a meeting with Olaf drawed his sword, and tried cutting Olaf II down were he sat. Realizing that the Captain was going to be talking about funds Olaf II had prepared for the worse and was able to dodge the Captain's first swing.
As the battle began outside, Olaf and Susi slowly circled each other waiting for the perfect moment to attack. Finally Olaf saw a weak point and lunged at Susi. Surprised at Olaf's lunge Susi jumps backing forgetting that they were inside a tent, causing him to crash through the wall and fall to the ground. Not hesitating Olaf struck the final blow ending the traitorous captain's life.
Seeing that his forces were starting to lose the battle Olaf quickly cut of Susi's head and held it up for all to see, hoping it would demoralize the Mercs. It would seem that it succeeded as they began scattering, most likely due to the fact that they had no immediate leader then to actual fear of the Swedes. The battle was soon over with the Swedish managing to survive. However due to the disbandment of the Lithuanian band earlier on they now only had 760 Warriors. Knowing that he was defeated Olaf II surrendered to the High Chieftain of Kola.
Troubled times for Olaf II, betrayed by his daughter in the spiritual realm and having a hard time in the military realm...
Olaf II definitely had his hands full. I fear it won't bode well for his successor either since there are many discontent about their rule.
Laws, Revenge, and Invasions
November 15, 1032
Olaf II was on his to a meeting between many of his vassals. Although he had a feeling that they would curse him for not giving up the war on Finland sooner, he continued on his way for it was his duty as king to sit through both the good and the bad. To his surprise they actually commended his rule saying that he had managed to keep the realm together, despite threats from foreigners, peasants, and even some of the Jarls at the meeting.
Once the congratulations were over Olaf II took the opportunity to purpose a few law changes. The first purposed law was on title revocation, for currently it was banned unless a Jarl or Chieftain rebelled. Surprisingly it was passed without much debate with many saying it could help avoid future large scale civil war, by revoking a title before one could act.
The second law Olaf II honestly thought would take weeks of argument to be put into action. As it would increase the obligations of the feudal lords of the realm, requiring them to pay a small amount of tax and to put aside more of there levis. Although it took longer than the first law this one too was eventually passed, with many saying the crown needed more funding to better protect against the Christians.
July 15, 1034
Finally the opportunity arrived to make Tuulitar pay for the rebellion she caused. For High Chief Terho, reported that she was actively trying to enforce her Suomenusko beliefs on the peasants in her lands. Using this opportunity Olaf II was able to throw her in prison without much complaint from the other vassals.
January 1, 1035
Still feeling shame for his failure, Olaf II thought he found a chance to redeem his name. The Kingdom of Norge had long been a Germanic stronghold and there were still believers of Odin among the courts despite it falling to the Catholics. In order to rescue these believers Olaf II called for an invasion of the land.
Sorry for the later update but, when I went to write this yesterday I saw news that a member of one of my favourite YouTube channels had passed away. Causing me to have no energy to write this.
November 15, 1032
Olaf II was on his to a meeting between many of his vassals. Although he had a feeling that they would curse him for not giving up the war on Finland sooner, he continued on his way for it was his duty as king to sit through both the good and the bad. To his surprise they actually commended his rule saying that he had managed to keep the realm together, despite threats from foreigners, peasants, and even some of the Jarls at the meeting.
Once the congratulations were over Olaf II took the opportunity to purpose a few law changes. The first purposed law was on title revocation, for currently it was banned unless a Jarl or Chieftain rebelled. Surprisingly it was passed without much debate with many saying it could help avoid future large scale civil war, by revoking a title before one could act.
The second law Olaf II honestly thought would take weeks of argument to be put into action. As it would increase the obligations of the feudal lords of the realm, requiring them to pay a small amount of tax and to put aside more of there levis. Although it took longer than the first law this one too was eventually passed, with many saying the crown needed more funding to better protect against the Christians.
July 15, 1034
Finally the opportunity arrived to make Tuulitar pay for the rebellion she caused. For High Chief Terho, reported that she was actively trying to enforce her Suomenusko beliefs on the peasants in her lands. Using this opportunity Olaf II was able to throw her in prison without much complaint from the other vassals.
January 1, 1035
Still feeling shame for his failure, Olaf II thought he found a chance to redeem his name. The Kingdom of Norge had long been a Germanic stronghold and there were still believers of Odin among the courts despite it falling to the Catholics. In order to rescue these believers Olaf II called for an invasion of the land.
Sorry for the later update but, when I went to write this yesterday I saw news that a member of one of my favourite YouTube channels had passed away. Causing me to have no energy to write this.
Is there some way to revert back to Norse culture ? It would serve as an unifying element in your empire.
Could be for my ruler's dynasty at least as there still are a few Norse around, but then I would need to deal with possible peasant uprisings from the already diversified provinces. Also it would probably take quite a while to either educate/revoke heirs/titles from the other non Norse vassals.
Besides the challenge is always fun.
The Great Invasion
The call had been heard, bringing adventurous souls from all over Scandinavia to Olaf's court. Odd was one of them a young man of 18, he had arrived with a group of 650 hoping to make riches and possibly find land to claim in Norge. No one realized that he along with many other's would never return.
September 18, 1035
As more and more men arrived Olaf II knew that he had made the right call. Quickly however his mind was distracted, for a panic gaoler ran up to Olaf shouting that he had seen Tuulitar escaping. Quickly they rounded up the guard and searched far and wide however no sightings of her were reported. Wondering how she could of made it out on her own Olaf went down to the dungeon to investigate, when he got down there he noticed the head gaoler was missing. Fearing for the worst Olaf quickly checked Tuulitar's old cell, were he spotted the gaoler on the floor. Upon closer inspection Olaf would see that he was in fact not dead, and was simply knocked out with his pants partially undone. Enraged Olaf had the head gaoler thrown in the Oubliette, without even waiting for him to wake up.
1036
Realising that he could quite possibly die out in the Norwegian mountains Olaf II had a rune stone raised in his memory. With less then half a year until the invasion Olaf II took a pilgrimage to Uppsala, there he spent the final months of preparations wondering the halls in hope that Odin, Thor and all the other Gods would approve of his actions and grant him a swift victory. However it wasn't all prayer for Olaf also visited Linda a bastard of his dynasty and one that he loved.
December 31, 1036
The order was given, and war was declared. With 5200 brave warriors having arrived in the lead up to the invasion, Olaf felt he had great odds for once his vassal levies joined up they numbered well over 10,000. Although the Norwegians had very little troops of there own they summoned the Catholic Holy Orders, who only brought the enemy forces to 6000. Feeling confident Olaf ordered his forces to attack were they quickly surrounded the enemy and slaughtered them.
Although the Norwegian host was defeated the Swedes, still marched after them hoping to take out any possible way for them to regroup. This proved costly for once winter returned many of the swedes were stranded in the mountains, where over 4000 would drop dead from either the cold, or starvation. Among these was Odd who had shown he was quite a gifted individual during combat and was going to be promised a whole county. Eventually the invasion ended however on the 1st of September 1040 in victory for Olaf.
With the invasion over Olaf II distributed the titles they were able to revoke from the Catholics to those loyal to him however many Catholic Lords still managed to hang on to the Northern part of Norge.
November 1, 1940
With the invasion over Olaf II could turn his attention back on Tuulitar who he feared would use the new found Catholic, and Norwegian vassals to fuel another rebellion. To stop this he sent his guards to once again imprison her, this time she was ready though and was able to escape her would be captors. Although futile she raised her flag in rebellion and sealed herself in her castle.
February, 20 1941
Olaf II could not get out of his bed having falling deathly ill at the age of 51. Although many thought he would die within the week he continued to live until news came that Tuulitar's castle had been taken, for once he heard this his body gave up the fight and submitted to the illness. Long live King Bagge.
The call had been heard, bringing adventurous souls from all over Scandinavia to Olaf's court. Odd was one of them a young man of 18, he had arrived with a group of 650 hoping to make riches and possibly find land to claim in Norge. No one realized that he along with many other's would never return.
September 18, 1035
As more and more men arrived Olaf II knew that he had made the right call. Quickly however his mind was distracted, for a panic gaoler ran up to Olaf shouting that he had seen Tuulitar escaping. Quickly they rounded up the guard and searched far and wide however no sightings of her were reported. Wondering how she could of made it out on her own Olaf went down to the dungeon to investigate, when he got down there he noticed the head gaoler was missing. Fearing for the worst Olaf quickly checked Tuulitar's old cell, were he spotted the gaoler on the floor. Upon closer inspection Olaf would see that he was in fact not dead, and was simply knocked out with his pants partially undone. Enraged Olaf had the head gaoler thrown in the Oubliette, without even waiting for him to wake up.
1036
Realising that he could quite possibly die out in the Norwegian mountains Olaf II had a rune stone raised in his memory. With less then half a year until the invasion Olaf II took a pilgrimage to Uppsala, there he spent the final months of preparations wondering the halls in hope that Odin, Thor and all the other Gods would approve of his actions and grant him a swift victory. However it wasn't all prayer for Olaf also visited Linda a bastard of his dynasty and one that he loved.
December 31, 1036
The order was given, and war was declared. With 5200 brave warriors having arrived in the lead up to the invasion, Olaf felt he had great odds for once his vassal levies joined up they numbered well over 10,000. Although the Norwegians had very little troops of there own they summoned the Catholic Holy Orders, who only brought the enemy forces to 6000. Feeling confident Olaf ordered his forces to attack were they quickly surrounded the enemy and slaughtered them.
Although the Norwegian host was defeated the Swedes, still marched after them hoping to take out any possible way for them to regroup. This proved costly for once winter returned many of the swedes were stranded in the mountains, where over 4000 would drop dead from either the cold, or starvation. Among these was Odd who had shown he was quite a gifted individual during combat and was going to be promised a whole county. Eventually the invasion ended however on the 1st of September 1040 in victory for Olaf.
With the invasion over Olaf II distributed the titles they were able to revoke from the Catholics to those loyal to him however many Catholic Lords still managed to hang on to the Northern part of Norge.
November 1, 1940
With the invasion over Olaf II could turn his attention back on Tuulitar who he feared would use the new found Catholic, and Norwegian vassals to fuel another rebellion. To stop this he sent his guards to once again imprison her, this time she was ready though and was able to escape her would be captors. Although futile she raised her flag in rebellion and sealed herself in her castle.
February, 20 1941
Olaf II could not get out of his bed having falling deathly ill at the age of 51. Although many thought he would die within the week he continued to live until news came that Tuulitar's castle had been taken, for once he heard this his body gave up the fight and submitted to the illness. Long live King Bagge.
That's an impressive realm for a young boy to receive. A young boy would meet much resistance but, if he succeeds keeping his realm intact, he'll be guaranteed for great things though.
Adding Norway means a lot of new found power! Hopefully the boy can manage to survive to adulthood...
The Trials of Bagge
Although Bagge could not reign on his own yet being a child of 13, he dreamt of a day when he would no longer need to hear Sörkver teachings. For although Bagge had to admit they had thought him much in the art of war, Sörkver acted as if he was the one ruling the kingdom despite him just being a bastard of Bagge's Great Grandfather.
January 14, 1042
Early in the morning just before starting his daily lessons Ofeig, Bagge's Uncle and Regent ran up to him. Before Bagge could even guess what was happening Ofeig gave him a message, which demanded the independence of Osel and large parts of Finland and Norway. Afraid that this was some sort of test set up by his vassal's he refused. Never did he think they were serious.
Suddenly thrown into war Bagge under the guidance of his marshal Bagge recruited the Pecheneg Company, and called for his loyal Vassals levis. Although not everyone made it to the rallying point those that did combined with Bagge's personal levis to form a total of 9500. Before they could even leave Västergötland however the rebel host of 10500 engaged them.
Although being outnumbered by 1000 the Loyalists had the upper hand. For once the armies engaged into melee the Veteran Generals of the Loyalist host were able to find an excellent defensible position to hold out in allowing their cavalry supremacy to really make use of the fields. No longer having to guard the flanks of the infantry and archers they were free to charge down any that stood in their way.
January 13, 1043
As the war dragged on the inheritance from Olaf II quickly dried up, forcing Bagge to dismiss his hired Mercenaries. With money still leaving the treasury organized crime such as smuggling began to increase. Finally on July 1, 1043 the Rebel's surrendered knowing that there forces had been utterly crushed.
December 1, 1043
Peace did not last long however, as fearing oppression from the Norse the Catholic peasants in Norway revolted with 3000 zealous souls. Although no were near the threat of the Independence revolt they still managed to capture a county killing all they could find within the Castle. Shortly after the Swedish forces arrived to end the Catholic uprising.
May 14, 1044
Finally Bagge was free to do as he pleased no longer having to listen to his uncle, or his bastard tutor. Still though Bagge knew that the realm was fragile and could shatter just as easily as the window he broke a few years ago. To try and remedy this Bagge took ruler ship far more seriously then most Kings.
His first act as king would be to extend the Jarldom system to the Norwegians for being unable to punish them due to his regents mercy, he figured they would be much easier to handle if he only had to worry about a few Jarls instead of many chiefs. To do this he created the Jarldoms of Vestlandet, and Tröndelag. Worried that this may anger the Norwegian Chiefs Bagge had his Runestone carved while he was still quite young.
Bagge suddenly found himself standing in a massive hall filled with what looked like battered warriors of old. As he walked towards one end he thought he saw his kinsman Balder "Ironside" who had perished at the hands of Tibaldo Guideschi. As he turned towards him though a powerful voice filled the air capturing Bagge's attention. At the far end of the hall stood Odin yelling at everyone that Ragnorak was upon them. Strangely though Odin was not slain by Fenris, but by a strange man with scares on his hands. The person who was wearing all white, quickly appeared before Odin before stabbing him with a sharpened Cross.
Suddenly the hall disappeared and Bagge found himself staring into the face of a tall golden masked figure. That soon also fades as a maid wakes Bagge up telling him he was just dreaming.
Although Bagge could not reign on his own yet being a child of 13, he dreamt of a day when he would no longer need to hear Sörkver teachings. For although Bagge had to admit they had thought him much in the art of war, Sörkver acted as if he was the one ruling the kingdom despite him just being a bastard of Bagge's Great Grandfather.
January 14, 1042
Early in the morning just before starting his daily lessons Ofeig, Bagge's Uncle and Regent ran up to him. Before Bagge could even guess what was happening Ofeig gave him a message, which demanded the independence of Osel and large parts of Finland and Norway. Afraid that this was some sort of test set up by his vassal's he refused. Never did he think they were serious.
Suddenly thrown into war Bagge under the guidance of his marshal Bagge recruited the Pecheneg Company, and called for his loyal Vassals levis. Although not everyone made it to the rallying point those that did combined with Bagge's personal levis to form a total of 9500. Before they could even leave Västergötland however the rebel host of 10500 engaged them.
Although being outnumbered by 1000 the Loyalists had the upper hand. For once the armies engaged into melee the Veteran Generals of the Loyalist host were able to find an excellent defensible position to hold out in allowing their cavalry supremacy to really make use of the fields. No longer having to guard the flanks of the infantry and archers they were free to charge down any that stood in their way.
January 13, 1043
As the war dragged on the inheritance from Olaf II quickly dried up, forcing Bagge to dismiss his hired Mercenaries. With money still leaving the treasury organized crime such as smuggling began to increase. Finally on July 1, 1043 the Rebel's surrendered knowing that there forces had been utterly crushed.
December 1, 1043
Peace did not last long however, as fearing oppression from the Norse the Catholic peasants in Norway revolted with 3000 zealous souls. Although no were near the threat of the Independence revolt they still managed to capture a county killing all they could find within the Castle. Shortly after the Swedish forces arrived to end the Catholic uprising.
May 14, 1044
Finally Bagge was free to do as he pleased no longer having to listen to his uncle, or his bastard tutor. Still though Bagge knew that the realm was fragile and could shatter just as easily as the window he broke a few years ago. To try and remedy this Bagge took ruler ship far more seriously then most Kings.
His first act as king would be to extend the Jarldom system to the Norwegians for being unable to punish them due to his regents mercy, he figured they would be much easier to handle if he only had to worry about a few Jarls instead of many chiefs. To do this he created the Jarldoms of Vestlandet, and Tröndelag. Worried that this may anger the Norwegian Chiefs Bagge had his Runestone carved while he was still quite young.
Bagge suddenly found himself standing in a massive hall filled with what looked like battered warriors of old. As he walked towards one end he thought he saw his kinsman Balder "Ironside" who had perished at the hands of Tibaldo Guideschi. As he turned towards him though a powerful voice filled the air capturing Bagge's attention. At the far end of the hall stood Odin yelling at everyone that Ragnorak was upon them. Strangely though Odin was not slain by Fenris, but by a strange man with scares on his hands. The person who was wearing all white, quickly appeared before Odin before stabbing him with a sharpened Cross.
Suddenly the hall disappeared and Bagge found himself staring into the face of a tall golden masked figure. That soon also fades as a maid wakes Bagge up telling him he was just dreaming.
Castles and Raiding
Although Bagge was quite disturbed after his dream, life went on and Bagge continued to try and bring his realm closer together. Later on worrying news arrived from England, as according to Bagge's spies the next in-line to the English throne was a Capet. Although any danger from it would take some time to reach Sweden, the potential was there for an empire larger then the German Empire to the South.
December 8, 1045
Still the time to worry about the Catholics was for the future. As now Bagge called for a Great Blot in the hopes that it would strengthen the bonds between the Germanic lords. Although the Catholic vassals outright refused to attend, Bagge saw the Blot as a great success. He only hoped that Odin would make use of the Sacrifices sent to him.
Having to deal with many petty arguments between various Jarls was not the most exciting work, however Bagge took pride in it. After all he had even managed to stop the Smuggler's ring that had popped up earlier on. In order to make things more fair on his Jarl's Bagge raised the Obligations of his Burgher's making them supply more tax and levis.
April 1, 1047
No longer could Bagge deal with the bickering of Jarls, for they were slowly driving him insane. Quickly Bagge looked for any opportunity for war, he did not need to look far though as his Marshal soon mentioned his father's failure to subjugate the Finnish. Determined to get away from court Bagge declared the 3rd Swedish war for Finland on Kola.
Much like the previous time the Finns called in their allies. However this time there would be no Catholics to save them, resulting in their host being completely crushed at Uleaborg. After the battle was over it was just a simple matter of hunting down the survivors and sieging the Finnish Holdings.
Despite the war the Jarl's would not stop brining their problems to Bagge, who was eventually forced to return to his court to deal with a certain issue. When Bagge arrived he was immediately jumped on by Balder II of Gotland, and Jarl Gandalfr. Apparently the Jarl had been mugged while visiting Balder and demanded compensation, which Balder was unwilling to give saying that Gandalfr shouldn't of been visiting the brothels, dressed the way he was. Wanting to get it over Bagge offered to personally compensate Gandalfr the 50 gold he demanded. Seeing that the realm truly couldn't survive without him Bagge worked even harder then before.
July 12, 1048
The war for Finland had ended in a Swedish victory. The only thing left was for the single remaining independent Finnish chief to give up his independence which he gladly did after Bagge's Huscarls dragged him out of his keep.
1049
The falling year was relatively quite for Bagge, allowing him to hear more about the distant realms. Among these was the Ibadi Caliph's call for Jihad against both the Catholics and the Sunni's in Andalusia. During the end of the year reports came that a Volcano had erupted in Strymon devastating the local populace.
April 23, 1050
A man claiming to be an architect arrived in Bagge's court offering to build a Castle in Akershus for much cheaper then the normal price. Despite warnings from his steward Bagge agreed to the man's deal, handing over 400 gold. With less then a hundred gold left, Bagge prepared what he hoped would be the largest raid in Viking history. With chaos in France, England and the German Empire, and the Ibadi Caliph having recently won his Jihad, Bagge decided that they would have to go to the Mediterranean.
July 11, 1050
By July Bagge had managed to find 4500 Vikings and commandeered 68 ships. They soon set off for their first stop, Venice. While there they managed to completely sack the city. Next they travelled to Rome, however before they could completely loot it an army of angry Venetians that were in the area arrived forcing the Vikings back onto their ships. The Final stop on the raid was Genoa which much like Venice was completely sacked. Once they got back to Sweden the total loot managed to add up to 444 gold pieces.
This extra loot allowed Bagge to provide the architect the extra materials when he came begging for and extra 100 gold. Luckily for the Architect he was able to keep his head after Bagge saw the work that had been done.
Although Bagge was quite disturbed after his dream, life went on and Bagge continued to try and bring his realm closer together. Later on worrying news arrived from England, as according to Bagge's spies the next in-line to the English throne was a Capet. Although any danger from it would take some time to reach Sweden, the potential was there for an empire larger then the German Empire to the South.
December 8, 1045
Still the time to worry about the Catholics was for the future. As now Bagge called for a Great Blot in the hopes that it would strengthen the bonds between the Germanic lords. Although the Catholic vassals outright refused to attend, Bagge saw the Blot as a great success. He only hoped that Odin would make use of the Sacrifices sent to him.
Having to deal with many petty arguments between various Jarls was not the most exciting work, however Bagge took pride in it. After all he had even managed to stop the Smuggler's ring that had popped up earlier on. In order to make things more fair on his Jarl's Bagge raised the Obligations of his Burgher's making them supply more tax and levis.
April 1, 1047
No longer could Bagge deal with the bickering of Jarls, for they were slowly driving him insane. Quickly Bagge looked for any opportunity for war, he did not need to look far though as his Marshal soon mentioned his father's failure to subjugate the Finnish. Determined to get away from court Bagge declared the 3rd Swedish war for Finland on Kola.
Much like the previous time the Finns called in their allies. However this time there would be no Catholics to save them, resulting in their host being completely crushed at Uleaborg. After the battle was over it was just a simple matter of hunting down the survivors and sieging the Finnish Holdings.
Despite the war the Jarl's would not stop brining their problems to Bagge, who was eventually forced to return to his court to deal with a certain issue. When Bagge arrived he was immediately jumped on by Balder II of Gotland, and Jarl Gandalfr. Apparently the Jarl had been mugged while visiting Balder and demanded compensation, which Balder was unwilling to give saying that Gandalfr shouldn't of been visiting the brothels, dressed the way he was. Wanting to get it over Bagge offered to personally compensate Gandalfr the 50 gold he demanded. Seeing that the realm truly couldn't survive without him Bagge worked even harder then before.
July 12, 1048
The war for Finland had ended in a Swedish victory. The only thing left was for the single remaining independent Finnish chief to give up his independence which he gladly did after Bagge's Huscarls dragged him out of his keep.
1049
The falling year was relatively quite for Bagge, allowing him to hear more about the distant realms. Among these was the Ibadi Caliph's call for Jihad against both the Catholics and the Sunni's in Andalusia. During the end of the year reports came that a Volcano had erupted in Strymon devastating the local populace.
April 23, 1050
A man claiming to be an architect arrived in Bagge's court offering to build a Castle in Akershus for much cheaper then the normal price. Despite warnings from his steward Bagge agreed to the man's deal, handing over 400 gold. With less then a hundred gold left, Bagge prepared what he hoped would be the largest raid in Viking history. With chaos in France, England and the German Empire, and the Ibadi Caliph having recently won his Jihad, Bagge decided that they would have to go to the Mediterranean.
July 11, 1050
By July Bagge had managed to find 4500 Vikings and commandeered 68 ships. They soon set off for their first stop, Venice. While there they managed to completely sack the city. Next they travelled to Rome, however before they could completely loot it an army of angry Venetians that were in the area arrived forcing the Vikings back onto their ships. The Final stop on the raid was Genoa which much like Venice was completely sacked. Once they got back to Sweden the total loot managed to add up to 444 gold pieces.
This extra loot allowed Bagge to provide the architect the extra materials when he came begging for and extra 100 gold. Luckily for the Architect he was able to keep his head after Bagge saw the work that had been done.