Rise of AARussian Prince
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Yes we have peace, how boring
o
But don't worry Vsevolod hasn't forgotten his mission he's just giving the regiments time to replenish.
oBut don't worry Vsevolod hasn't forgotten his mission he's just giving the regiments time to replenish.
It's always good to capture nobility.
At least that's what mount and blade taught me.
At least that's what mount and blade taught me.
The aftermath of the Polovtsy war
With Chernigov in his control and a secure border with the Polovtsy, Vsevolod was able to turn to internal affairs. With Chernigov virtually destroyed and Pereyaslavl depopulated Vsevolod decided to move his court to the recovering city of Kiev. Much of the population had now returned and with refugees arriving from Chernigov, the city had regained much of it's former glory.
By early February the northern army finally arrived. Vladimir brought news that a second daughter had been born to him during the war. Vasilisa the younger (b. 11th December, 1070) was to play an important role in the future.
The late arrival of reinforcements highlighted a critical flaw in the capability of the military. During summer the abundant river-ways allowed rapid transportation by boat but during winter the frozen rivers forced the troops to march overland through the thick inhospitable forests. Instead of sending the troops home, Vsevolod set them to the construction of roadways.
Over the next four years the road network slowly came together. Many of the troops relocated to Pereyaslavl or Kiev and a flourishing settlement was established on the east bank across from Kiev where goods and people could be ferried across the river.
In 1073 Anna was married to Prince Igorevich of Sames who had converted to the orthodox faith. Ironically the populace would continue to hold to their pagan beliefs into the 13th century. In 1075 Vasilisa the elder passed away. Vladimir fell into a depressed mood at the loss of his wife but was forced into marrying again to produce an heir.
With war wounds healed and boys growing into men Vsevolod once again turned his eyes to the lands beyond his borders.
With Chernigov in his control and a secure border with the Polovtsy, Vsevolod was able to turn to internal affairs. With Chernigov virtually destroyed and Pereyaslavl depopulated Vsevolod decided to move his court to the recovering city of Kiev. Much of the population had now returned and with refugees arriving from Chernigov, the city had regained much of it's former glory.
By early February the northern army finally arrived. Vladimir brought news that a second daughter had been born to him during the war. Vasilisa the younger (b. 11th December, 1070) was to play an important role in the future.
The late arrival of reinforcements highlighted a critical flaw in the capability of the military. During summer the abundant river-ways allowed rapid transportation by boat but during winter the frozen rivers forced the troops to march overland through the thick inhospitable forests. Instead of sending the troops home, Vsevolod set them to the construction of roadways.
Over the next four years the road network slowly came together. Many of the troops relocated to Pereyaslavl or Kiev and a flourishing settlement was established on the east bank across from Kiev where goods and people could be ferried across the river.
In 1073 Anna was married to Prince Igorevich of Sames who had converted to the orthodox faith. Ironically the populace would continue to hold to their pagan beliefs into the 13th century. In 1075 Vasilisa the elder passed away. Vladimir fell into a depressed mood at the loss of his wife but was forced into marrying again to produce an heir.
With war wounds healed and boys growing into men Vsevolod once again turned his eyes to the lands beyond his borders.
Roads?
Roads are for horse poop!
Real men ride horses thourgh fields of grain stumping it to ground.
Roads are for horse poop!
Real men ride horses thourgh fields of grain stumping it to ground.
Roads in Kiev?
What madness is this?
----
That said, they make good invasion routes in summer. That is a sword with two edges, if you have any enemies that are strong enough.
What madness is this?
----
That said, they make good invasion routes in summer. That is a sword with two edges, if you have any enemies that are strong enough.
Madness...?
This is Moskva!
Where you walk over the ice on the rivers in the frozen depths of winter?
(And usually, it's the AI who captures my rulers.)
And then we have also the russian winter which destroyes road in its essence.
So in 20 years the roads would be nothing, but the game is not realistic.
So in 20 years the roads would be nothing, but the game is not realistic.
Sorry for the long delay, the last few weeks have kept me way too busy and away from my computer.
@ demokratickid: thanks for your faith.
@ Enewald: real men don't ride horses, they ride dragon boats. Headlong into greek fire if they get the chance. As the great trading power that it is, Kiev is able to afford road repairs so the roads are here to stay.
@ RGB: Fortunately The nations of the west keep largely to themselves, can't risk the supply of mail order brides or whatever it is they want. If anyone wants to attack Kiev from the east they have to cross the Dniepr while the navy picks them off.
@Tskb18: Good to see you commenting. We all know what happens to those who try to invade Russia in the winter. The ruler capture was from total war rather than CK and it helps explain why they gave up so easily.
@ demokratickid: thanks for your faith.
@ Enewald: real men don't ride horses, they ride dragon boats. Headlong into greek fire if they get the chance. As the great trading power that it is, Kiev is able to afford road repairs so the roads are here to stay.
@ RGB: Fortunately The nations of the west keep largely to themselves, can't risk the supply of mail order brides or whatever it is they want. If anyone wants to attack Kiev from the east they have to cross the Dniepr while the navy picks them off.
@Tskb18: Good to see you commenting. We all know what happens to those who try to invade Russia in the winter. The ruler capture was from total war rather than CK and it helps explain why they gave up so easily.
Brotherly Love
Evening, October 22nd, 1075 - East Kiev
Standing atop the wooden keep guarding the settlement of East Kiev, Grand Prince Vsevolod looked to the east. Before him the stars shone brightly in the cool, still night. This was not what drew the Prince's attention however. Below him, outnumbering even the stars, the campfires of his army burned.
"Amazing, isn't it" The awe in Vladimir's voice apparent.
Vsevolod looked to his trusted friend and adviser.
"Truly it is"
A third voice interjected.
"It's a bloody mess is what it is. Ten thousand men plus various hanger-oners."
Gleb shot a dark look at Vladimir.
For two weeks the marshal had been run ragged organizing the vast force arrayed before them and ferrying them across the Dniepr.
"And the cost he continued."
"Is going straight back into the economy" Vsevolod cut in.
"I still don't see why we need so many men, half this force would be more than sufficient."
"This is not about being sufficient, This is a true show of power. I want the world to know my name and tremble."
"Well I know someone who should be trembling right now" said Vladimir staring into the distance.
With that the three men parted ways.
Morning, November 2nd, 1075 - Novgorod Seversky
Svyatoslav Yaroslavich listened as the messenger read the letter.
“Dearest brother.” the messenger began
“It has been too long since last we met. I ask you now that I may have permission to join you in your city to celebrate my coronation as prince of Chernigov.”
Svyatoslav's expression darkened, he was the prince of Chernigov, what was the meaning of this letter.
The messenger continued
“I ask you also to invite the lords of the cities of Pronsk, Ryazan, Kolomna, Murom and your sons Gleb and Oleg to attend this occasion so that they recognize me as their true prince.”
Svyatoslav rose, glaring at the messenger
“Tell him there is no way I will allow this insult to go unpunished.”
The messenger squeaked “There is more sir, he also asks that you make preparations for his guests... all ten thousand of them.”
“Oh balls!”
Afternoon, November 20th, 1075 - Just outside Novgorod Seversky
The battle had been a great success for Vsevolod and his army. The enemy forces had numbered barely 3000, many of which had been slain or captured. Only Simeon of Ryazan had raised an army in support of his lord but the army was still far off. Vsevolod had sent Vladimir ahead with a third of the army to deal with Simeon while he and Gleb maintained a siege on the city. It would all be over by Christmas.
On December 8th the army that had been sent to deal with Ryazan returned. Vsevolod was surprised to see the army led by an unfamiliar face.
Riding out to meet the approaching forces he asked of the leader
“Tell me good captain, what has befallen you these past days?”
The captain replied
“My lord, we met the army of Simeon in battle and defeated them soundly. They have retreated to Ryazan to lick their wounds.”
“What of Vladimir?” asked Vsevolod.
“He lives” said the captain “but barely. As the enemy's forces were routed he led the cavalry to run them down. As he did sow he was thrown from his horse and was badly wounded.”
The captain motioned to a wagon behind him.
“Go see him for yourself.”
Vsevolod waited as the wagon rolled to a stop. Entering he saw his friend laying asleep on a rough mattress. A young servant attended him. His head was heavily bandaged and one arm was in a sling.
Vladimir awoke as his lord approached. Softly he spoke
“We beat them well and truly lord. Cursed fool that I am. I should have let them slink back to their castle with their tail between their legs. But no, I had to have one last go and now look at me all banged up. And that's not the worst of it...” He trailed off
“Tell me” whispered Vsevolod.
Vladimir looked at him in despair.
“My legs.” he said “I can't feel them.”
Evening, October 22nd, 1075 - East Kiev
Standing atop the wooden keep guarding the settlement of East Kiev, Grand Prince Vsevolod looked to the east. Before him the stars shone brightly in the cool, still night. This was not what drew the Prince's attention however. Below him, outnumbering even the stars, the campfires of his army burned.
"Amazing, isn't it" The awe in Vladimir's voice apparent.
Vsevolod looked to his trusted friend and adviser.
"Truly it is"
A third voice interjected.
"It's a bloody mess is what it is. Ten thousand men plus various hanger-oners."
Gleb shot a dark look at Vladimir.
For two weeks the marshal had been run ragged organizing the vast force arrayed before them and ferrying them across the Dniepr.
"And the cost he continued."
"Is going straight back into the economy" Vsevolod cut in.
"I still don't see why we need so many men, half this force would be more than sufficient."
"This is not about being sufficient, This is a true show of power. I want the world to know my name and tremble."
"Well I know someone who should be trembling right now" said Vladimir staring into the distance.
With that the three men parted ways.
Morning, November 2nd, 1075 - Novgorod Seversky
Svyatoslav Yaroslavich listened as the messenger read the letter.
“Dearest brother.” the messenger began
“It has been too long since last we met. I ask you now that I may have permission to join you in your city to celebrate my coronation as prince of Chernigov.”
Svyatoslav's expression darkened, he was the prince of Chernigov, what was the meaning of this letter.
The messenger continued
“I ask you also to invite the lords of the cities of Pronsk, Ryazan, Kolomna, Murom and your sons Gleb and Oleg to attend this occasion so that they recognize me as their true prince.”
Svyatoslav rose, glaring at the messenger
“Tell him there is no way I will allow this insult to go unpunished.”
The messenger squeaked “There is more sir, he also asks that you make preparations for his guests... all ten thousand of them.”
“Oh balls!”
Afternoon, November 20th, 1075 - Just outside Novgorod Seversky
The battle had been a great success for Vsevolod and his army. The enemy forces had numbered barely 3000, many of which had been slain or captured. Only Simeon of Ryazan had raised an army in support of his lord but the army was still far off. Vsevolod had sent Vladimir ahead with a third of the army to deal with Simeon while he and Gleb maintained a siege on the city. It would all be over by Christmas.
On December 8th the army that had been sent to deal with Ryazan returned. Vsevolod was surprised to see the army led by an unfamiliar face.
Riding out to meet the approaching forces he asked of the leader
“Tell me good captain, what has befallen you these past days?”
The captain replied
“My lord, we met the army of Simeon in battle and defeated them soundly. They have retreated to Ryazan to lick their wounds.”
“What of Vladimir?” asked Vsevolod.
“He lives” said the captain “but barely. As the enemy's forces were routed he led the cavalry to run them down. As he did sow he was thrown from his horse and was badly wounded.”
The captain motioned to a wagon behind him.
“Go see him for yourself.”
Vsevolod waited as the wagon rolled to a stop. Entering he saw his friend laying asleep on a rough mattress. A young servant attended him. His head was heavily bandaged and one arm was in a sling.
Vladimir awoke as his lord approached. Softly he spoke
“We beat them well and truly lord. Cursed fool that I am. I should have let them slink back to their castle with their tail between their legs. But no, I had to have one last go and now look at me all banged up. And that's not the worst of it...” He trailed off
“Tell me” whispered Vsevolod.
Vladimir looked at him in despair.
“My legs.” he said “I can't feel them.”
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When you can't feel your legs, that's a typically bad sign.... :rofl: Nice work, sir!
Oooh, how did I miss this? Now I know what your comment on my AAR was about! o
Excellent work! Plus you have pictures and…historical accuracy…and stuff.
(Also? "Oh, balls!"? Hehehehe… )
More, please.
oExcellent work! Plus you have pictures and…historical accuracy…and stuff.
(Also? "Oh, balls!"? Hehehehe…
)More, please.
@ demokratickid: true that, glad you're enjoying it.
@ Enewald: WHat sort of horses do you have where falling off them results in dismemberment?
@ RGB: Unfortunately Vladimir II is busy running Pereyaslavl and Rostov. Fortunatley you don't need legs to be devious.
@ It's Amazing: Welcome aboard. Pictures I have, screenshots not so much. As for historical accuracy from here on in I can make up whatever I want.
Update is likely for the weekend.
@ Enewald: WHat sort of horses do you have where falling off them results in dismemberment?
@ RGB: Unfortunately Vladimir II is busy running Pereyaslavl and Rostov. Fortunatley you don't need legs to be devious.
@ It's Amazing: Welcome aboard. Pictures I have, screenshots not so much. As for historical accuracy from here on in I can make up whatever I want.
Update is likely for the weekend.
The Italian Job
Early afternoon, December 18th, 1075 – Novgorod-Seversky
Vsevolod sat astride his horse just outside the walls of Novgorod Seversky. The smoke from a dozen fires drifted slowly on the breeze. Passing through the now shattered gates he looked upon the results of the days battle. A light drifting of snow did little to hide the carnage that had taken place. As he continued into the city he passed several hastily erected barricades. Through each a path had been cleared so that he could proceed unimpeded. Finally he arrived at the central keep. Another bloody battle had occurred before these gates. They too had finally succumbed to the assault and a number of Vsevolod's men now guarded them.
He dismounted and proceeded on foot, Gleb following. Striding through the corridors of Svyatoslav's castle he passed more guards at each corner. Finally he reached Svyatoslav's throne-room. Svyztoslav was standing with his family and council, carefully watched by more of Vsevolod's guards. Svyatoslav had been relieved of his weapons but still wore the armour he had during the fighting.
Vsevolod carefully unrolled a piece of parchment and laid it flat on a table.
“Sign it.”
“Do I have a choice.”
“Ink or blood.”
Wisely Svyatoslav decided on ink and so Vsevolod became Prince of Chernigov.
Returning to Chernigov on Christmas day Vsevolod was officially crowned prince of Cherigov and Muscovy. All of Svyatoslav's former vassals bar Simeon attended and swore fealty to Vsevolod.
In January, 1076 Vakhtag was sent to his grandfather's court in Georgia. As Giorgi was yet to produce an heir Vakhtag stood second in line to the Georgian throne.With Vladimir II also yet to produce a male heir Vakhtag also stood a good chance of inheriting Kiev. History however would tell a different tale.
Evening, April 11th, 1076 – Kiev
It was a dark and stormy night. A cloaked stranger rode through the streets of Kiev toward the royal residence. Leaving his horse at the stables he quickly made his way to the entryway.
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK.
A small panel slid open and two eyes peered at the stranger
“Who goes there?” demanded the guard.
“I come with a cure for that which ails master Andreievich.”
“Very well come in.”
The guard escorted the stranger to Vsevolod who was examining some tax records from Torki along with steward Boleslava.
“Sire another charlatan comes claiming a cure for Vladimir.”
“I am no charlatan!” The stranger exclaimed.
“I am Count Baldassarre de Pont. I guarantee that I have a cure that will heal all disease and injury. All I ask is the mere sum of fifty Hryvnia.”
Vsevolod stared at the man then looked to Boleslava before bursting out in laughter.
“Do you have any idea what you are asking? I bet your little county if you are indeed a count wouldn't make that much money in a decade. We've been looking for a good jester maybe you should try at that.”
“Laugh all you want. By this time tomorrow you will be begging to pay me.”
Vsevolod sobered.
“Ah whatever, I guess you can't make it any worse. Come I'll show you to him.”
Vsevolod marched to the room where Vladimir lay. A fire was burning in the hearth making the room stifling hot but still Vladimir was shivering and muttering incoherently.
“You are lucky I made it here in time” Baldasserre muttered.
Moving to Vladimirs side he produced a small vial containing a strange silvery liquid. Pulling the stopper and holding Vladimir's mouth open he poured a single drop onto his tongue.
“It is done” the count said.
By the next morning the fever had broken and Vladimir had regained consciousness. Vsevolod raced to his friends side at hearing the good news.
“Indeed it is a miracle!” he exclaimed seeing his friend awake.
By that afternoon feeling had returned to his legs and that evening he was able to walk unaided to the great feast held to honour his curer.
Summer came and went and things were looking up for Vsevolod. Trade flourished as the new road network was improved connecting the cities of Galich and Chernigov. Then disaster struck.
Early Afternoon, September 3rd, 1076 – Smolensk
Vsevolod smiled to himself. The summer had been particularly good and record harvests were expected. The day had been particularly good enjoying the lingering warmth of summer with his wife. Approaching the city they spied a lone rider galloping in their direction.
“Lord come quick!” The rider shoued as he neared them turning his horse around.
Vsevolod spurred his horse to a gallop and soon they arrived at Mariam's small keep.
Inside a crowd of nobles had gathered. Vsevolod pushed his way through. There in a pool of blood lay his most trusted friend and adviser.
Dead.
Early afternoon, December 18th, 1075 – Novgorod-Seversky
Vsevolod sat astride his horse just outside the walls of Novgorod Seversky. The smoke from a dozen fires drifted slowly on the breeze. Passing through the now shattered gates he looked upon the results of the days battle. A light drifting of snow did little to hide the carnage that had taken place. As he continued into the city he passed several hastily erected barricades. Through each a path had been cleared so that he could proceed unimpeded. Finally he arrived at the central keep. Another bloody battle had occurred before these gates. They too had finally succumbed to the assault and a number of Vsevolod's men now guarded them.
He dismounted and proceeded on foot, Gleb following. Striding through the corridors of Svyatoslav's castle he passed more guards at each corner. Finally he reached Svyatoslav's throne-room. Svyztoslav was standing with his family and council, carefully watched by more of Vsevolod's guards. Svyatoslav had been relieved of his weapons but still wore the armour he had during the fighting.
Vsevolod carefully unrolled a piece of parchment and laid it flat on a table.
“Sign it.”
“Do I have a choice.”
“Ink or blood.”
Wisely Svyatoslav decided on ink and so Vsevolod became Prince of Chernigov.
Returning to Chernigov on Christmas day Vsevolod was officially crowned prince of Cherigov and Muscovy. All of Svyatoslav's former vassals bar Simeon attended and swore fealty to Vsevolod.
In January, 1076 Vakhtag was sent to his grandfather's court in Georgia. As Giorgi was yet to produce an heir Vakhtag stood second in line to the Georgian throne.With Vladimir II also yet to produce a male heir Vakhtag also stood a good chance of inheriting Kiev. History however would tell a different tale.
Evening, April 11th, 1076 – Kiev
It was a dark and stormy night. A cloaked stranger rode through the streets of Kiev toward the royal residence. Leaving his horse at the stables he quickly made his way to the entryway.
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK.
A small panel slid open and two eyes peered at the stranger
“Who goes there?” demanded the guard.
“I come with a cure for that which ails master Andreievich.”
“Very well come in.”
The guard escorted the stranger to Vsevolod who was examining some tax records from Torki along with steward Boleslava.
“Sire another charlatan comes claiming a cure for Vladimir.”
“I am no charlatan!” The stranger exclaimed.
“I am Count Baldassarre de Pont. I guarantee that I have a cure that will heal all disease and injury. All I ask is the mere sum of fifty Hryvnia.”
Vsevolod stared at the man then looked to Boleslava before bursting out in laughter.
“Do you have any idea what you are asking? I bet your little county if you are indeed a count wouldn't make that much money in a decade. We've been looking for a good jester maybe you should try at that.”
“Laugh all you want. By this time tomorrow you will be begging to pay me.”
Vsevolod sobered.
“Ah whatever, I guess you can't make it any worse. Come I'll show you to him.”
Vsevolod marched to the room where Vladimir lay. A fire was burning in the hearth making the room stifling hot but still Vladimir was shivering and muttering incoherently.
“You are lucky I made it here in time” Baldasserre muttered.
Moving to Vladimirs side he produced a small vial containing a strange silvery liquid. Pulling the stopper and holding Vladimir's mouth open he poured a single drop onto his tongue.
“It is done” the count said.
By the next morning the fever had broken and Vladimir had regained consciousness. Vsevolod raced to his friends side at hearing the good news.
“Indeed it is a miracle!” he exclaimed seeing his friend awake.
By that afternoon feeling had returned to his legs and that evening he was able to walk unaided to the great feast held to honour his curer.
Summer came and went and things were looking up for Vsevolod. Trade flourished as the new road network was improved connecting the cities of Galich and Chernigov. Then disaster struck.
Early Afternoon, September 3rd, 1076 – Smolensk
Vsevolod smiled to himself. The summer had been particularly good and record harvests were expected. The day had been particularly good enjoying the lingering warmth of summer with his wife. Approaching the city they spied a lone rider galloping in their direction.
“Lord come quick!” The rider shoued as he neared them turning his horse around.
Vsevolod spurred his horse to a gallop and soon they arrived at Mariam's small keep.
Inside a crowd of nobles had gathered. Vsevolod pushed his way through. There in a pool of blood lay his most trusted friend and adviser.
Dead.
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This has taken a positively tongue in cheek turn.
A dark and stormy night followed by Darthsassination?
A dark and stormy night followed by Darthsassination?