Rome AARisen - a Byzantine AAR
- Thread starter General_BT
- 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.
Amazing update!
Lots of shocks and unanswered questions....
I always knew that something went down between Rodrigo and Sophie...
asd
Lots of shocks and unanswered questions....
I always knew that something went down between Rodrigo and Sophie...
asd
Hahahaha Rodrigo, man, this really could be an enormous spanner into the works of Byzantium..
The continued deterioration of Basil continues to fascinate, especially as the contrast between his current state and his former self deepens.
One of your best chapters yet , BT . Seriously , Rodrigo did not undermine my expectations and your brilliant dramatic acumen rises to the occassion with so much energy that it had me gripping my hands in amazement .
Five star episode by far .
Five star episode by far .
Yes, I echo the words of Canonized and say the exact same thing! Five star episode indeed! It looks like indeed a possible civil war is about to erupt in Byzantium and the end of the Komenid line could be near! Still, atleast Heraklios will probably be handsome like his father - something that David and Thomas are not.
I WANT AN INTERIM! I WANT AN INTERIM!
wheres that look at the themes and comes of the empire you promised HUH!
wheres that look at the themes and comes of the empire you promised HUH!
Hehehe… *evil grin* Just so everyone knows, after a lovely brainstorming session today, I’ve got the next update planned out. Hopefully it’ll be up soon, but it might be delayed as I am doing a interseason special for canonized in “Timelines.” When that is done, I’ll make sure to post a link here – it will have all sorts of Byzantine goodness in it! For now though, some replies for everyone!
Servius Magnus – Your wish is my command – see below.
Ksim3000 – I happen to think David is very handsome! (if you’re wondering, the pic is of a very young Matt Dillon, back in the eighties when hair to your neck wasn’t a faux pas) As for Heraklios, he could turn out to be handsome, but remember, he’s inherited his mother’s looks, so there’s no telling how he’ll look – it certainly won’t be like Thomas, Manuel or David…
canonized – I told you Rodrigo would have something big coming up! And, I daresay, our Spanish friend has quite a few more important scenes (as well as a couple snappy lines and dropped dresses) before he makes his final exeunt stage right… you think this was big…
phargle – This is the interesting thing about Basil, in terms of a character study, and the reason I’ve had him go down this path as a writer… often the ‘fall from grace’ can be more interesting than a brilliant career. Its part of the challenge of writing someone that the game gave such ridiculous stats to – how do you write them and stay truthful to the game, while making the character interesting? Basil’s overcome his pride, he’s overcome his warlike attitude, but now, can he overcome himself, before its too late?
English Patriot – Imagine this – Basil dies, and Romanion is ruled by a half-Spaniard… somewhere, I think, the Spanish Habsburgs are rolling in their graves!
asd21593 – If I remember right, you were amongst the first to call that something was going on between them, as far back as when Manuel offed Zeno? If so… my my, how prescient you were! You’d get a brownie point! (I think you, AP, and VILenin are the only ones with brownie points right now…)
Fulcrumvale – As a writer, I love to see that reaction… means I did my job well!
Enewald – Remember, one of Basil’s more unfortunate traits (from a ruler’s standpoint) is that he’s trusting… so no, he doesn’t know who the real father is, he’s duped just like everyone else is. As for Rodrigo, no – that was an invention for the purposes of the AAR. In game, Rodrigo is King of Leon, on lands granted to him by the Emperor, just as Enguerrand is King of Portugal, Romanos Thrakesios is King of Castile, Thomas King of Aragon, and David King of Mauretania… I just took the liberty of turning the kingdoms into exarchates with appropriate names. Their status as exarchates (not fully a part of the regular empire, but well within imperial interest and titular control) becomes important in only a few short years…
AlexanderPrimus – High praise yet again… thank you! Truth be told, I wasn’t sure how this update would pan out… I’m glad to see I’m getting the reactions I hoped for!
Irenicus – Yup… people make mistakes, but even with that thought, Sophie and Rodrigo made a doozy. And yes, a war seemingly is waking Basil up… but that depends a lot on his mysterious ailment… which only one person has guessed on. As for Mehtar… he’s lost it a bit, and he’s dangerously capable. I’d advise everyone to batten down the hatches, because where he goes, angry, boorish Thomas is likely coming too…
The_ArchDuke – Lovely in depth deduction, but I’m afraid your diagnosis is wrong, Dr. House. I’ll drop everyone a major hint by spotting you all a letter – “L”
Okay, since Servius Magnus brought up the fact I haven’t finished my update on the themes of the Empire, I’ve have that below as this week’s interim. This time, we’re looking at all the themes of Egypt and the Levant. Several themes whose principal territory lie outside this region have comes here – those themes will be covered in their appropriate region (there are only two other regions, the Balkans and Anatolia-Georgia). So, as a reminder to everyone, here is a map of the Empire proper, as it stood in 1181:
The Empire as a whole, minus Spanish dominions…
The Imperial lands of Egypt and the Levant
6. Principality of Egypt – note: in game, this is the Principality of Alexandria
Ruler: Romanos of Dau
Capital: Gizeh
The Principality of Egypt (in game, Principality of Alexandria) represents the lands of “Egypt Proper” that are no administered directly by the Emperor – a.k.a. not Alexandria. In yet another example of local administration, the Lord of Egypt is a local, Qasim al-Dau, who has taken the Romanized name “Romanos of Dau.” His family was long a member of the Christian minority before the Empire’s arrival, and Romanos has emerged as a leader among the Neodynatoi – the noble princes who rule themes established during or after the rule of the Megas. As such, he holds a considerable amount of sway – far more than even the riches of his lands should grant him.
7. Metropolitanate of Aswan
Ruler: Metropolitan Romanos Mzkhasgdzeli
Capital: Dongola
The Metropolitanate of Aswan was created by Emperor Manuel Komnenos in 1142, ostensibly a gift to the Church in thanks for his survival from an assassination attempt. In reality, it was a bribe to the Patriarch of Alexandria for the Patriarch’s support of Manuel’s early ambitious plans for the church. The Metropolitanate still contains many of the personal lands of the Patriarch, and is currently administered by Patriarch Demetrios’ close assistant, the Metropolitan Romanos Mzkhasgdzeli.
8. Principality of Damietta
Ruler: Eudoxios Komnenos
Capital: Damietta
The Principality of Damietta was carved from imperial lands in Egypt for Emperor Manuel’s fourth son, Eudoxios, before the lad was even ten. Consisting of only Damietta proper and another comes to the south, the lands were constricted later in Manuel’s reign and into that of Basil, mostly due to the incompetence of the Prince – Eudoxios is charitably described as a hedonistic slob, who cares for only his wealth and women.
9. Principality of Sinai
Ruler: Fahd de Ferrers
Capital: Castle d’Aigle
The Principality of the Sinai is a poor, impoverished state, a remnant of the proud crusader forces that took Egypt during the First Crusade almost 80 years before. Considered harmless, they’ve been incorporated formally into the Empire as the theme of Sinai. Fahd de Ferrers is the third of the “de Ferrers” to rule as a Prince on the Emperor’s behalf from Castle d’Aigles, and has taken the name “Fahd” (in place of his given name, John, or his Orthodox equivalent, Ioannis) in an effort to gain better relations with what few locals exist in the province. Out of the way and poor, few, if any, care about this theme.
10. Principality of Jaffa
Ruler: Rustam Qasim
Capital: Jaffa
The Principality of Jaffa was originally created by the Megas in the immediate aftermath of the First Seljuk War, as a gift to his former Megos Domestikos. The Qasim family has ruled here ever since, its scions branching out to rule several other themes and comes as well, making this unlikely group descended from Saracens one of the most powerful families in the Empire. As the Prince of Jaffa, Rustam is the titular head of the vast Qasim clan, and as such remains one of the most powerful nobles in the Empire, behind Clemente Kosaca, the various Komnenoi, and Slevtislav Trpimirovic. Rustam is a firm backer of Emperor Basil, and, despite the Prince’s rather boorish reputation, a confidante of Prince Thomas.
11. Principality of Outrejourdain
Ruler: Heraklios Donauri
Capital: Kerak Castle
The Principality of Outrejourdain was another creation in the immediate aftermath of the 1st Seljuk War. Originally the theme was headed by the Agyros family, but in 1153 Nikolaios Agyros sided with Basiliea de Hauteville in the Great Rebellion, and the lands of Outrejourdain were seized by troops from the theme of Antiochiea. After the dust settled, Emperor Manuel handed the theme to Georgios Donauri, a minor captain of a dromon who distinguished himself in both the First and Second Battle of Rhodes. His son, Heraklios Donauri, now rules the theme. The Donauri, like the de Ferrers, are regarded as “low nobility,” even in the eyes of the neodynatoi – outside of Kerak there is little of note in Outrejourdain. However, the Donauris have both high aims (Heraklios has long petitioned the Throne of Caesars to have the theme of Arabia added to his title) and high connections – Heraklios rode with the Emperor at Niebla, and reportedly saved his life twice.
12. Metropolitanate of Madaba
Ruler: Metropolitan Konstantinos Antiochites
Capital: Madaba
Madaba was yet another bribe offered by the Manueline Imperial government to the Church, this time to the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. While these not-so-fertile lands are administered in the name of the Patriarch, the Metropolitan ruling them has, since Basil’s coronation, been appointed at the recommendation of the Emperor. Konstantinos Antiochites, now entering his fifty-eighth year, was once a tutor for the Emperor and his small cadre of friends, and as such, the Metropolitan is still a fast supporter of Emperor Basil and his policies. Rumor has it, however, that the Exarch of Mauretania has established a permanent liaison in Madaba…
13. Principality of Galilee
Ruler: Gabriel Komnenos
Capital: Tiberias
The Principality of Galilee was once a Metropolitanate, under the jurisdiction of the Patriarch of Jerusalem. However, when the former Patriarch supported Basiliea de Hauteville’s revolt in the mid 1150s, Emperor Manuel stripped the theme from spiritual control, converting it into a principality and handing it to his cousin, Kosmas Komnenos. Galilee still holds a special spiritual place within the Empire, however, and Kosmas’ son, Gabriel, has made a great deal of coin levying fees on pilgrims visiting the holy sites in the area. This has proven a continual thorn in the side of Emperor Basil, who personally abhors the practice, yet has little legal ground on which to expressly forbid it. Gabriel has been especially vocal in his support for David Komnenos becoming the next Emperor – as the son of a military commander, he is reportedly impressed with David’s battle record, and according to rumor, his coin as well.
14. Metropolitanate of Tyre
Ruler: Metropolitan Aziz Hussain
Capital: Tyre
Formerly known as the Metropolitanate of Baalbek, in honor of its first holder, Manuel Komnenos, brother of the Megas. Tyre is amongst the oldest spiritual principalities within Romanion, and has stayed surprisingly neutral in past squabbles, despite being a personal domain of the Patriarch of Antioch. The current Patriarch is an Arab known by the baptismal name Theodoros, who goes by Aziz in an effort to reach out to the local heathen populations. He is in good standing with the Emperor, and known as a rather genial man – during the Third Seljuk War, Aziz, then merely a Metropolitan in Damascus, was known for spitting in the face of the Turkish messenger demanding the city’s surrender, making him an instant hero.
19. Metropolitanate of Trebizond
- See Anatolian section
31. Principality of Makedonia
- See Balkan Section
56. Principality of Arabia
Ruler: Berbat Sulayman
Capital: Petra
The Principality of Arabia, like that of Outrejourdain and the Sinai, is relatively poor, its main importance coming from its border status next to the Hejaz. As a border theme, it has several regiments of the Imperial Guard stationed in Petra. As such, its true ruler is not really the Prince – the scion of an important local Arab family which hastily converted to Christianity once the Empire arrived – but the local army commander, strategos Andreas Venizelos, son of the hapless Venizelos that struggled and failed against Sultan Sulieman in the Third Seljuk War. Recently border skirmishes have increased with tribesmen operating within the Hejaz, and the strategos has reportedly sent a threatening message to the Emir with a promise of grave retribution should the raids not cease.
Servius Magnus – Your wish is my command – see below.
Ksim3000 – I happen to think David is very handsome! (if you’re wondering, the pic is of a very young Matt Dillon, back in the eighties when hair to your neck wasn’t a faux pas
) As for Heraklios, he could turn out to be handsome, but remember, he’s inherited his mother’s looks, so there’s no telling how he’ll look – it certainly won’t be like Thomas, Manuel or David…canonized – I told you Rodrigo would have something big coming up! And, I daresay, our Spanish friend has quite a few more important scenes (as well as a couple snappy lines and dropped dresses) before he makes his final exeunt stage right… you think this was big…
phargle – This is the interesting thing about Basil, in terms of a character study, and the reason I’ve had him go down this path as a writer… often the ‘fall from grace’ can be more interesting than a brilliant career. Its part of the challenge of writing someone that the game gave such ridiculous stats to – how do you write them and stay truthful to the game, while making the character interesting? Basil’s overcome his pride, he’s overcome his warlike attitude, but now, can he overcome himself, before its too late?
English Patriot – Imagine this – Basil dies, and Romanion is ruled by a half-Spaniard… somewhere, I think, the Spanish Habsburgs are rolling in their graves!
asd21593 – If I remember right, you were amongst the first to call that something was going on between them, as far back as when Manuel offed Zeno? If so… my my, how prescient you were! You’d get a brownie point! (I think you, AP, and VILenin are the only ones with brownie points right now…)
Fulcrumvale – As a writer, I love to see that reaction… means I did my job well!
Enewald – Remember, one of Basil’s more unfortunate traits (from a ruler’s standpoint) is that he’s trusting… so no, he doesn’t know who the real father is, he’s duped just like everyone else is. As for Rodrigo, no – that was an invention for the purposes of the AAR. In game, Rodrigo is King of Leon, on lands granted to him by the Emperor, just as Enguerrand is King of Portugal, Romanos Thrakesios is King of Castile, Thomas King of Aragon, and David King of Mauretania… I just took the liberty of turning the kingdoms into exarchates with appropriate names. Their status as exarchates (not fully a part of the regular empire, but well within imperial interest and titular control) becomes important in only a few short years…
AlexanderPrimus – High praise yet again… thank you! Truth be told, I wasn’t sure how this update would pan out… I’m glad to see I’m getting the reactions I hoped for!
Irenicus – Yup… people make mistakes, but even with that thought, Sophie and Rodrigo made a doozy. And yes, a war seemingly is waking Basil up… but that depends a lot on his mysterious ailment… which only one person has guessed on. As for Mehtar… he’s lost it a bit, and he’s dangerously capable. I’d advise everyone to batten down the hatches, because where he goes, angry, boorish Thomas is likely coming too…
The_ArchDuke – Lovely in depth deduction, but I’m afraid your diagnosis is wrong, Dr. House.
I’ll drop everyone a major hint by spotting you all a letter – “L”Okay, since Servius Magnus brought up the fact I haven’t finished my update on the themes of the Empire, I’ve have that below as this week’s interim. This time, we’re looking at all the themes of Egypt and the Levant. Several themes whose principal territory lie outside this region have comes here – those themes will be covered in their appropriate region (there are only two other regions, the Balkans and Anatolia-Georgia). So, as a reminder to everyone, here is a map of the Empire proper, as it stood in 1181:
The Empire as a whole, minus Spanish dominions…
The Imperial lands of Egypt and the Levant
6. Principality of Egypt – note: in game, this is the Principality of Alexandria
Ruler: Romanos of Dau
Capital: Gizeh
The Principality of Egypt (in game, Principality of Alexandria) represents the lands of “Egypt Proper” that are no administered directly by the Emperor – a.k.a. not Alexandria. In yet another example of local administration, the Lord of Egypt is a local, Qasim al-Dau, who has taken the Romanized name “Romanos of Dau.” His family was long a member of the Christian minority before the Empire’s arrival, and Romanos has emerged as a leader among the Neodynatoi – the noble princes who rule themes established during or after the rule of the Megas. As such, he holds a considerable amount of sway – far more than even the riches of his lands should grant him.
7. Metropolitanate of Aswan
Ruler: Metropolitan Romanos Mzkhasgdzeli
Capital: Dongola
The Metropolitanate of Aswan was created by Emperor Manuel Komnenos in 1142, ostensibly a gift to the Church in thanks for his survival from an assassination attempt. In reality, it was a bribe to the Patriarch of Alexandria for the Patriarch’s support of Manuel’s early ambitious plans for the church. The Metropolitanate still contains many of the personal lands of the Patriarch, and is currently administered by Patriarch Demetrios’ close assistant, the Metropolitan Romanos Mzkhasgdzeli.
8. Principality of Damietta
Ruler: Eudoxios Komnenos
Capital: Damietta
The Principality of Damietta was carved from imperial lands in Egypt for Emperor Manuel’s fourth son, Eudoxios, before the lad was even ten. Consisting of only Damietta proper and another comes to the south, the lands were constricted later in Manuel’s reign and into that of Basil, mostly due to the incompetence of the Prince – Eudoxios is charitably described as a hedonistic slob, who cares for only his wealth and women.
9. Principality of Sinai
Ruler: Fahd de Ferrers
Capital: Castle d’Aigle
The Principality of the Sinai is a poor, impoverished state, a remnant of the proud crusader forces that took Egypt during the First Crusade almost 80 years before. Considered harmless, they’ve been incorporated formally into the Empire as the theme of Sinai. Fahd de Ferrers is the third of the “de Ferrers” to rule as a Prince on the Emperor’s behalf from Castle d’Aigles, and has taken the name “Fahd” (in place of his given name, John, or his Orthodox equivalent, Ioannis) in an effort to gain better relations with what few locals exist in the province. Out of the way and poor, few, if any, care about this theme.
10. Principality of Jaffa
Ruler: Rustam Qasim
Capital: Jaffa
The Principality of Jaffa was originally created by the Megas in the immediate aftermath of the First Seljuk War, as a gift to his former Megos Domestikos. The Qasim family has ruled here ever since, its scions branching out to rule several other themes and comes as well, making this unlikely group descended from Saracens one of the most powerful families in the Empire. As the Prince of Jaffa, Rustam is the titular head of the vast Qasim clan, and as such remains one of the most powerful nobles in the Empire, behind Clemente Kosaca, the various Komnenoi, and Slevtislav Trpimirovic. Rustam is a firm backer of Emperor Basil, and, despite the Prince’s rather boorish reputation, a confidante of Prince Thomas.
11. Principality of Outrejourdain
Ruler: Heraklios Donauri
Capital: Kerak Castle
The Principality of Outrejourdain was another creation in the immediate aftermath of the 1st Seljuk War. Originally the theme was headed by the Agyros family, but in 1153 Nikolaios Agyros sided with Basiliea de Hauteville in the Great Rebellion, and the lands of Outrejourdain were seized by troops from the theme of Antiochiea. After the dust settled, Emperor Manuel handed the theme to Georgios Donauri, a minor captain of a dromon who distinguished himself in both the First and Second Battle of Rhodes. His son, Heraklios Donauri, now rules the theme. The Donauri, like the de Ferrers, are regarded as “low nobility,” even in the eyes of the neodynatoi – outside of Kerak there is little of note in Outrejourdain. However, the Donauris have both high aims (Heraklios has long petitioned the Throne of Caesars to have the theme of Arabia added to his title) and high connections – Heraklios rode with the Emperor at Niebla, and reportedly saved his life twice.
12. Metropolitanate of Madaba
Ruler: Metropolitan Konstantinos Antiochites
Capital: Madaba
Madaba was yet another bribe offered by the Manueline Imperial government to the Church, this time to the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. While these not-so-fertile lands are administered in the name of the Patriarch, the Metropolitan ruling them has, since Basil’s coronation, been appointed at the recommendation of the Emperor. Konstantinos Antiochites, now entering his fifty-eighth year, was once a tutor for the Emperor and his small cadre of friends, and as such, the Metropolitan is still a fast supporter of Emperor Basil and his policies. Rumor has it, however, that the Exarch of Mauretania has established a permanent liaison in Madaba…
13. Principality of Galilee
Ruler: Gabriel Komnenos
Capital: Tiberias
The Principality of Galilee was once a Metropolitanate, under the jurisdiction of the Patriarch of Jerusalem. However, when the former Patriarch supported Basiliea de Hauteville’s revolt in the mid 1150s, Emperor Manuel stripped the theme from spiritual control, converting it into a principality and handing it to his cousin, Kosmas Komnenos. Galilee still holds a special spiritual place within the Empire, however, and Kosmas’ son, Gabriel, has made a great deal of coin levying fees on pilgrims visiting the holy sites in the area. This has proven a continual thorn in the side of Emperor Basil, who personally abhors the practice, yet has little legal ground on which to expressly forbid it. Gabriel has been especially vocal in his support for David Komnenos becoming the next Emperor – as the son of a military commander, he is reportedly impressed with David’s battle record, and according to rumor, his coin as well.
14. Metropolitanate of Tyre
Ruler: Metropolitan Aziz Hussain
Capital: Tyre
Formerly known as the Metropolitanate of Baalbek, in honor of its first holder, Manuel Komnenos, brother of the Megas. Tyre is amongst the oldest spiritual principalities within Romanion, and has stayed surprisingly neutral in past squabbles, despite being a personal domain of the Patriarch of Antioch. The current Patriarch is an Arab known by the baptismal name Theodoros, who goes by Aziz in an effort to reach out to the local heathen populations. He is in good standing with the Emperor, and known as a rather genial man – during the Third Seljuk War, Aziz, then merely a Metropolitan in Damascus, was known for spitting in the face of the Turkish messenger demanding the city’s surrender, making him an instant hero.
19. Metropolitanate of Trebizond
- See Anatolian section
31. Principality of Makedonia
- See Balkan Section
56. Principality of Arabia
Ruler: Berbat Sulayman
Capital: Petra
The Principality of Arabia, like that of Outrejourdain and the Sinai, is relatively poor, its main importance coming from its border status next to the Hejaz. As a border theme, it has several regiments of the Imperial Guard stationed in Petra. As such, its true ruler is not really the Prince – the scion of an important local Arab family which hastily converted to Christianity once the Empire arrived – but the local army commander, strategos Andreas Venizelos, son of the hapless Venizelos that struggled and failed against Sultan Sulieman in the Third Seljuk War. Recently border skirmishes have increased with tribesmen operating within the Hejaz, and the strategos has reportedly sent a threatening message to the Emir with a promise of grave retribution should the raids not cease.
A great and truly revealing update! Good that you integrated Rodrigo into it after all, without his revelation the update wouldn't have been half as startling.
Anyway I see a lot of trouble ahead, not only is a contested succession to be exspected (on the other hand which one wasn't contested since the Komnenids took over ) but if Heraklios true parentage is ever discovered I fear he will find himself blinded, castrated and tonsured in no time (btw. incredible that these typcialy "byzantine" ways of getting rid of your opponents haven't featured yet on this AAR, here it's all poison and outright murder. ).
~Lord Valentine~
Anyway I see a lot of trouble ahead, not only is a contested succession to be exspected (on the other hand which one wasn't contested since the Komnenids took over
) but if Heraklios true parentage is ever discovered I fear he will find himself blinded, castrated and tonsured in no time (btw. incredible that these typcialy "byzantine" ways of getting rid of your opponents haven't featured yet on this AAR, here it's all poison and outright murder. ).~Lord Valentine~
Last edited:
Your Empire is really strong! My Byzantium game pales in comparison but then again got a nasty revolt in Croatia that spread like wildfire! So i must warn you for those damn Croatians!
Why don't you post your save so that we can bring down the Empire huh? I myself am a lazy bastard and don't got the patience to play that long.
Why don't you post your save so that we can bring down the Empire huh?
I myself am a lazy bastard and don't got the patience to play that long.
The internal politics of Byzantium appear to be Byzantine at all levels of government.
Hmm... my other thought from the symptoms was cancer. I almost guessed kidney cancer, but Renal cancer doesn't start with "L"... leukemia does start with and "L"...
I'm still a fan of those maps. I like how you totally use the kind of format you see in those historical atlas books.
Wow! I'm really humbled... of all the weekly awards, character-writer is the one that touches me the most, since its an affirmation of what I try to do here... create interesting, intriguing, maybe even surprising characters. Thank you Actinguy, and thanks to everyone who has read and commented over the last year on this story! Each and every comment, idea and reader means a lot to me... thank you all.
I'll have formal replies to everyone later, but first I want to say this:
In honor of this... as well as the one year anniversary of the AAR starting (as well as at AlexanderPrimus' insistence ) I'm putting together a giant list of all the major characters from this AAR, split into generations! Now, I don't have all of them done (or even close... I've only got the first two generations done for now... as the month goes on, I'll finish them up... by my tally, there'll be six generations of characters in total.
EDIT - I've put down the names of major people from the remaining generations as well... if anyone knows of any character I'm forgetting, let me know. I'll fill in this post as time goes on, and keep you all updated and link back to it!
Michael Dukas – Ruled as Emperor Michael VII from 1068 to 1090. Reign was characterized by mismanagement and the Emperor’s own sense of paranoia. Defeated by Demetrios Komnenos in 1090 and stripped of the Imperial crown. He remained as comes of Thessalonika until his death in 1095.
Alexios Komnenos – Prince of Kappadokia, Edessa and Aleppo. Father of Demetrios Komnenos and progenitor of the Imperial Komnenid line. Brilliant commander and leader, greatly expanded Komnenid lands. Wounded in battle and died of poisoning fro his brother, Manuel Komnenos.
Ioannis Kantakouzenos – Prince of Samos. Major member of the Byzantine nobility, supported then defected from Manuel Komnenos’ planned coup against Demetrios in 1091. Granted the title of Megas Doux which he held till his death.
Manuel Komnenos (of Sinope) – Prince of Sinope. Major member of the Byzantine nobility, as Megas Doux defected from Michael VII to Demetrios Komnenos, allowing the latter to take Konstantinopolis, and the throne. Later launched a coup against his nephew, was defeated and ultimately killed.
Zoe Maliasenos – Wife of Alexios Komnenos, mother of Demetrios Komnenos, served several offices within both the Kappadokian and later Imperial state. Staunch ally of her son. Betrayed the hashashin to get them to murder the sons of the Seljuk Sultan. Was murdered by hashashin paid by the coin of Hajnal Arpad in 1103.
Anastasia Aristenos – First spymaster for Demetrios Komnenos as Prince of Kappadokia. Was alert to plots, managed to discover who the real killer of Alexios Komnenos was, but was assassinated before she could tell Demetrios.
Sultan Malik Shah – Great Seljuk, Emperor of the Seljuk Empire. Was restive until his sons were murdered by hashashin. Once it was discovered that Roman coin was behind the operation, began preparing revenge, which culminated in the First Seljuk War. Died without further issue, precipitating the First Seljuk Civil War.
Isaakios Komnenos – Brother to Alexios Komnenos, Prince of Antiocheia. Isaakios weathered the political storm of Michael’s reign, and was a strong supporter of his nephew Demetrios. Later, he commanded an imperial army during the First Seljuk War.
Demetrios Komnenos “Megas” – Prince of Kappadokia from 1084 to 1090, then Emperor of the Romans from 1090 to 1135. His long reign allowed the Empire to grow expansively in all directions – winning victories in the Tripoli War (1088), the Conquest of Jerusalem (1094), The Croatian/Cyrenaican War (1100), the First Seljuk War (1103-1105), the Cuman War (1109), the Aswan War (1120) and finally the Second Seljuk War (1132-1133). Left a long brood of both legitimate and illegitimate children to squabble over his realm. Simply known to the rest of history as “the Megas.”
Anastasia Diasorenos – First wife of the Megas, a daughter of a minor frontier comes, wedding Demetrios in 1084. She had an astute and devious mind, guiding the still naïve prince throught his first treacherous years in Roman politics. Died in childbirth shortly after Demetrios captured Constantinople in 1090. Arguably she was the only true love of his life – after her death he rudely treated all future wives (and all the women he used).
Hajnal Arpad – Second wife of the Megas, daughter of King Salamon of Hungary. Loved Demetrios at first, but was spurned by him and began to plot revenge. Gave birth to the future Emperor Nikolaios, and tutored him. Plotted with the hashashin to assassinate the Emperor’s mother Zoe (which was successful), and the Emperor as well as his newly nominated Kaisar. Caught and executed after Demetrios survived the attack.
Metropolitan Manuel Komnenos – Fouled mouthed but brilliant brother of the Megas who opted for a life in the church. From 1090 until 1105 served unwillingly as Kaisar, before receiving a Metropolitanate and living in relative obscurity the rest of his life.
Isaakios Thrakesios – Strategos in the Roman army, and one of the most feared military commanders of his time. Served as a young soldier in the Megas’ army that took Constantinople in 1090, and rapidly rose through the ranks. Commanded field armies in the Cyrenaican, First Seljuk, Aswan, and Second Seljuk Wars. Served as Kaisar for four years (1105-1109). Father to Ioannis Thrakesios.
Kamal Qasim – Megos Domestikos from Demetrios’ coronation till the aftermath of the First Seljuk War, when he received the Principality of Jaffa, founding the Princely Qasim line of the dynatoi who today influence no less than three themes in the Empire.
Sulieman al-Jabbari – Grand Vizier to Malik Shah, discovered Zoe’s plot to assassinate the Sultan’s sons. Convinced the Sultan to go to war, after Malik’s death succeeded him as Sultan Sulieman of the Seljuks. A non-Seljuk, his lords revolted, precipitating the First Seljuk Civil War.
Evangelos Komnenos – Youngest brother of the Megas. Evangelos showed much promise, but unfortunately went insane during his first campaign during the Cyrenaican War. Eventually became a heretic, regarding himself as a prophet of Christ’s return. Was offered as a sacrifice to the Church by Nikolaios in return for the dismemberment of one of their own.
Nikolaios Komnenos – Eldest legitimate son of the Megas (3rd overall), reigned as co-Emperor alongside his father from 1109-1135, and sole Emperor from 1135-1141. Scholar and academic, extremely intelligent. Lover of Ioannis Thrakesios, never fathered any legitimate children. Wrote the Demetriad, Nikolaid, and Lessons to the Prince. Was killed in battle against his brother Christophoros during the Brother’s War of 1141.
Michael Komnenos – Eldest son of the Megas, though illegitimate. Fought alongside his father during the First Seljuk War. Was named Kaisar in 1105, only to be assassinated on his way to consecration by the hashashin. Was only 19.
Christophoros Komnenos – Second eldest son of the Megas, though illegitimate. Was legitimized, served as Megos Domestikos from 1108 till 1141. Prince of Chaldea and Coloneia from 1133-1141. Ousted his brother Nikolaios after the Battle of Carthage, only to be assassinated by his younger brother Manuel in 1141, before he could be crowned Emperor.
Georgios Komnenos[/b] – Fourth eldest son of the Megas, also illegitimate. Drunken lout, inclined to wenching, few admirable skills as a ruler. Became comes of Syrte and Senoussi. Was murdered by persons unknown in 1139.
Ignatios Komnenos – Fifth eldest son of the Megas, a bastard by the Imperial Spymistress, Siddiqa Mazin. Was the center of a plot in 1120 to usurp the throne from the Nikolaios and install her son as co-Emperor to the Megas. Fled from politics into the church, became Metropolitan of Trebizond in 1133, later became Patriarch in 1159. Informed Emperor Manuel of Zeno’s plot to kill Sophie in 1166.
Edmund de Normandie – Third son of King Robert of England, Duke of Hampshire. Part of original Crusader invasion of Egypt, established himself as Prince of Alexandria. Aided the Megas during the First Seljuk War. Felt encroached upon by the Empire, declared himself King of Egypt in 1141. Was killed in battle by the troops of Manuel Komnenos shortly thereafter.
Siddiqa Mazin – Spymistress to the Megas from 1108 till 1122. Mother of Ignatios Komnenos, plotted to usurp the throne from Nikolaios and install her son as co-Emperor. Plot disintegrated when the Dukas brothers broke from plan. Fled to Aswan, was later captured and killed by Manuel Komnenos in 1140.
Ioannis Thrakesios – Eldest son of Isaakios Thrakesios. Was friend, later lover, of Nikolaios Komnenos. Became a strategos in his own right. After word of his affair with Nikolaios went public, led campaign in Aswan after Siddiqa Mazin, was killed in battle in 1122.
Romanos Thrakesios – Second son of Isaakios Thrakesios, became Prince of Bosnia on his father’s death. Became Megas Doux and commander of the Imperial fleet. Blackmailed by Manuel Komnenos into sending ships to help Christophoros’ revolt, allowing the former to defeat Nikolaios. After Manuel rose to the throne, was stripped of his titles.
Andronikos Dukas – First cousin of Emperor Michael Dukas, was centerpiece of Siddiqa Mazin’s plot to unseat Nikolaios Komnenos. His troops failed to march as planned, tipping the Emperors off.
Berthe Capet – Third wife of the Megas, mother of Manuel Komnenos, Demetrios Nearos, and Etiennette Komnenos. Her marriage sealed the fate of Siddiqa’s plots to have her son placed on the throne.
Patriarch Anastasios – Priest from Amorion, became Patriarch in 1117. Was a central part of Siddiqa’s plot to overthrow Nikolaios, but kept himself removed enough that he could not be prosecuted. Sided with Christophoros in War of Brothers, was assassinated by Manuel Komnenos the same night Christophoros Komnenos was killed.
Godfrey of Salerno – Duke of Salerno, brother of Bohemond, King of Sicily. Wanted his insane brother’s title for himself, sent his daughter Basiliea to seduce Emperor Manuel to accomplish this. Died when Imperial troops stormed Salerno in 1157 on their march towards Rome.
Manuel Komnenos – Seventh son of the Megas, was Prince of Aswan from 1137-1141, and Emperor from 1141-1169. Noted plotter and poisoner. Launched a sneak assault that gained most of Egypt from King Edmund in 1139. Became Kaisar under Nikolaios once Christophoros’ betrayal became apparent. Backstabbed Nikolaios by sending aid to Christophoros, then assassinated Christophoros and the Patriarch on the former’s return to Constantinople in triumph. Conquered southern Italy, consolidated Egypt. Almost came to blows with Western Empire and the Pope. Barely survived an assassination attempt in 1160, and witnessed the Third Seljuk War from his deathbed. Used war to root out enemies, led to “Red Saint Irene’s” massacre of enemies in the Hagia Eirene. Was ousted in coup in 1169, exiled to Lesbos.
Romanos Komnenos – Sixth son of the Megas, though illegitimate. Prince of Edessa from 1133 onwards. Was often forgotten by the others in his family. Slothful, hedonist, had ill reputation amongst family and other lords. Died without issue.
Demetrios Komnenos “Nearos” – Eight son of the Megas. Megos Domestikos under Emperor Manuel and until 1175 under Emperor Basil. Prince of Imeretia from 1141 onwards. Apolitical, capable on the battlefield, was a reliable general for two emperors in numerous wars.
Malhaz Komnenos – Illegitimate child of Nikolaios’ “wife” Jacinta and a palace guardsman. Was initially used by Emperor Nikolaios as proof of his heterosexuality, though Patriarch Anathasios and others uncovered evidence of the child’s true origins. After the ascension of Manuel, was given the lands formerly belonging to Romanos Thrakesios.
Zeno Komnenos – Second son of Christophoros Komnenos, was initially exiled from Konstantinopolis as a threat to Emperor Manuel. Lived up to his reputation, murdered Prince Niketas and almost murdered Prince Basil in 1158, staged an almost successful assassination attempt on the Emperor in 1160. Connived to get himself appointed co-Emperor shortly thereafter. Led the Empire disastrously through the Third Seljuk War. Deposed and murdered in the “Red Saint Irene’s” massacre in 1166.
Theodoros Komnenos – Grandson of Isaakios Komnenos, Prince of Antioch, holding the same title. Was instrumental to the Imperial victory in the Great Rebellion of 1153-1155, commanded a field army in the Third Seljuk War. Father of Sophie Komnenos, and thus father-in-law to Emperor Basil.
Kosmas Komnenos – Brother of Theodoros Komnenos. Brilliant army and navy commander, won Joshua’s Ford, Crete, and Rhodes for the imperial forces during the Great Rebellion. Suffered a disastrous defeat at Tell Bashir in the Third Seljuk War. Reinstated, commanded Imperial troops in Spain for many years.
Ioannis Vataczes – Strategos, and mentor to Basil Komnenos. Was widely considered one of the most formidable commanders in the Roman army, but was known for bawdy mouth and bad manners. Was initially denied command in Third Seljuk War by Zeno, but became Basil’s second in command during the Syrian campaign. Fell at the horrific Battle of Menorca.
Giuseppe Rimini – Archbishop, Papal nuncio, later Cardinal, then Pope Boniface. Built up extensive contacts within the Eastern Empire, successfully kept Emperor Manuel from conquering Rome. Befriended Basil Komnenos, later became his tutor and lifelong friend.
Pope Innocent II – Pope from 1132 until 1171. Successfully navigated difficult diplomatic straits between the Eastern and Western Empires. Bravely faced the army of Emperor Manuel with only a retinue of priests and pilgrims in 1158.
Basiliea de Hauteville – Daughter of the Duke of Salerno. Sent to Konstantinopolis to seduce Manuel, succeeds, becomes his wife. Mother of Basil and Niketas. Attempted to depose Manuel in the Great Rebellion, intending on setting Basil on the throne. Was defeated and committed suicide.
Hermann Arpad – Second Arpad Western Emperor, from 1138 until 1154. Giant of a man, brave and capable commander. Was repeatedly diplomatically outfoxed by both Emperor Manuel and Pope Innocent II.
Basilieos Komnenos – Called “the Magnificent.” Prince of Apulia and Calabria from 1157 till 1167, then co-Emperor from 1167-1169, sole Emperor from 1169 onwards. Arguably the greatest military mind ever produced by the Romanoi – victorious in the Syrian Campaign (1164-1167), Almeria Campaign (1170-1172), Toledo Campaign (1173-1177), the Moroccan/Italian Campaigns (1179-1186), and the Cuman Campaign (1188). Brave, chivalrous, kindhearted, antithesis of most Roman rulers. Created the Spanish hyperexarchate. Increasingly ill, fraught with succession problems.
Demetrios Komnenos “Koutsos” – Older brother of Basilieos Komnenos, Prince of Kappadokia. A hunchback with a slur, was never considered for imperial succession. Brilliant, loyal, often serves as Basil’s regent while the Emperor is away on campaign. Was Kaisar from Basil’s sole Emperorship in 1169 to 1186.
Sophie Komnenos – Daughter of Theodoros Komnenos, and wife of Basil Komnenos. Intelligent girl, inclined towards the darker arts of statecraft – often did “dirty work” necessary for Basil’s rule, even over the Emperor’s objections. Totally and wholly loyal to her husband.
Leo Komnenos – Basil’s younger brother, Prince of Apulia, Calabria and Salerno. Dubious loyalty at best, known to have taken French coin in the past. Rather incapable administrator.
Rodrigo Jimenez – One of Basil’s best friends from childhood, son of exiled Spanish nobility, acted often as an Imperial spy. Notorious lecher. Loyal. Tapped by Basil to become hyperexarch of Spain. Dallied with Empress Sophie, thus father to the secret bastard Heraklios Komnenos.
Alexandros Thrakesios – Childhood friend of Basil, son of disgraced Romanos Thrakesios. Became a well known commander in the Roman army. Married Basil’s sister, father of Basil’s nephew Romanos Thrakesios. Died in the horrific Battle of Menorca.
Enguerrand Komnenos – Basil’s youngest brother. Skilled diplomat, became first Exarch in Spain. Has grand ideas of his place in Roman politics, jealous that Rodrigo became hyperexarch. Has been known to take French coin.
Clemente Kosaca – Prince of Kairouan, Megos Domestikos and outside of Basil, one of the most formidable military commanders in Roman history. Basil’s second in command for most of the Spanish campaigns – named Megos Domestikos. Head of the army faction at court. Daughter Sophia was married to Thomas Komnenos, but was murdered by Mehtar Lainez.
Sultan Sulieman Arslan – Emir of Esfahan from 1141-1152, Sultan of the Seljuk Empire from 1152 on. Brilliant commander, chivalrous, launched the most devastating Turkish attack on Romanion since the days of Alp Arslan. Managed to penetrate as far as the Marmara, camped within sight of Konstantinopolis. Made peace for a paltry sum of land, on belief that a greater enemy was coming from the east. Has kept the peace since.
Drogo Capet – King of France from 1155 onwards. Has aspirations for rebuilding Charlemagne’s Empire. Noted plotter, had designs on Spain, Italy and Germany. Set up enormous spy network across Europe to carry out his plans. Outwitted King Richard of England, and now has set his son Louis on the English throne. Temporarily thwarted by the Roman Emperor during the Moroccan/Italian War. Suffered a poisoning attempted by his eldest son at Roman encouraging. Now sends coin to discontents within the Roman Empire in an effort to weaken it.
Richard de Normandie – King of England from 1163 until 1176. After Basil of Romanion, arguably the greatest commander in Christendom. Eagerly joined the Papal Crusade called for Spain, cooperated well with Romanoi plans. Undercut by Drogo, abandoned Crusade to attack the French King. Killed in Battle in 1176.
Heinrich VI Arpad – King of the Germans, Emperor of the West. Styles himself a diplomat and a plotter, but not in the league of Drogo. Outmanuevered by the French King while on Crusade, was forced to return home to deal with numerous noble rebellions. Barely has control over his realm.
Knud Knytling – Irascible, ancient King of the Danes. Has a sharp tongue and sword for anyone who annoys him – especially Boleslav of Poland.
Boleslav Premyslid – Rather dimwitted King of Poland. Eternal enemy of Knud Knytling. Their rivalry prevented them from going on the Crusade.
Magnus Knytling – King of Sweden, secretly sent 200 longships to Majorca, launching the first strike of the Crusade and given Sweden a Mediterranean toehold.
Lord Amalric – Distant cousin of Drogo, French ambassador to Konstantinopolis and center of Drogo’s spy ring there. Attempted to use one of his agents to subvert the Romans, instead was assassinated on orders of Empress Sophie.
Brunhilde von Oesengaarde – Double agent, working for the Romans but secretly giving information to the French. Was milked by Rodrigo Jimenez for information on her spy networks, then tossed aside when her usefulness was up. Her information led to the assassination of Amalric.
David Komnenos – Eldest son of Basil Komnenos. Excellent strategist, smart politician, was regarded by many as the most capable of his older sons. However, had a long vengeful streak, and like his grandfather, had a inclination to poison. Led the relief force that saved the Emperor in Spain in 1184, was named Kaisar and Exarch of Mauretania. Married Alienor Capet, daughter of King Drogo, and had one son, Alexios Komnenos.
Manuel Komnenos – Second eldest son of Basil, Prince of Tangiers. Indolent, lazy, and hedonistic, never considered a serious contender for the throne. Resents all of his brothers, but is too lazy to do much about them.
Thomas Komnenos – Third eldest son of Basil, formidable warrior, if not so formidable commander. Proud, vengeful, with a ferocious temper. Worships the ancient ideas of what it meant to be Roman, and loud advocate of retaking Rome. Named Exarch of Tarraconensis. Married Sophia Komnenos, who was then murdered. Thomas blamed David, and ordered his best friend and spymaster Mehtar Lainez to kill David.
Heraklios Komnenos – Fourth son of Basil Komnenos. Still a boy, shows little inclination for things military, but is has a sharp mind for things scholarly and statesmanlike. After infighting between elder sons, was named in Basil’s will as senior-Emperor, with David as junior.
Romanos Thrakesios – Son of Alexandros Thrakesios, nephew of the Emperor, named Exarch of Baetica. Still a young man, easily led around by Hyperexarch Rodrigo Jimenez.
Mehtar Lainez – Son of Strategos Gregor Lainez. Secretly in love with his best friend, Thomas Komnenos. Taken at a young age into the Imperial Hand at Sophie Komnenos’ insistence, trained in art of sabotage and assassination. Became unearthly at these skills, became Sophie’s personal “assistant,” later Spymaster for Exarchate of Tarraconensis. Had a personal feud with David. Witnessed Thomas and his wife making love, became enraged and killed her, before claiming before Thomas he had evidence linking David to the assassination.
Murad Arslan – Son of Sulieman Arslan, and presumed heir to the Seljuk Empire. Was an aggressive young man during the Syrian campaign, since has had time and experience to hone his skills and tone down his arrogance.
Alienor Capet – Daughter of Drogo Capet, wife of David Komnenos. Was immediately shunned by her husband on her arrival. Gave birth to son Alexios – second in line to the French throne, as well as the Roman throne. Fiercely protective of her child.
Louis Capet – Son of Drogo Capet, King of England. Was to succeed to his father’s Empire, but has shown himself weak willed and easily persuaded – the Roman offer of a title persuaded him to attempt to kill his father. Still sits in confinement, despite being Drogo’s heir.
Alexios Komnenos
I'll have formal replies to everyone later, but first I want to say this:
In honor of this... as well as the one year anniversary of the AAR starting (as well as at AlexanderPrimus' insistence
) I'm putting together a giant list of all the major characters from this AAR, split into generations! Now, I don't have all of them done (or even close... I've only got the first two generations done for now... as the month goes on, I'll finish them up... by my tally, there'll be six generations of characters in total.EDIT - I've put down the names of major people from the remaining generations as well... if anyone knows of any character I'm forgetting, let me know. I'll fill in this post as time goes on, and keep you all updated and link back to it!
The First Generation
From left to right: 1) Michael Dukas, 2) Alexios Komnenos, 3)Ioannis Kantakouzenos, 4) Manuel Komnenos (of Sinope), 5) Zoe Maliasenos, 6) Anastasia Aristenos, 7) Malik Shah, 8) Isaakios Komnenos
From left to right: 1) Michael Dukas, 2) Alexios Komnenos, 3)Ioannis Kantakouzenos, 4) Manuel Komnenos (of Sinope), 5) Zoe Maliasenos, 6) Anastasia Aristenos, 7) Malik Shah, 8) Isaakios Komnenos
Michael Dukas – Ruled as Emperor Michael VII from 1068 to 1090. Reign was characterized by mismanagement and the Emperor’s own sense of paranoia. Defeated by Demetrios Komnenos in 1090 and stripped of the Imperial crown. He remained as comes of Thessalonika until his death in 1095.
Alexios Komnenos – Prince of Kappadokia, Edessa and Aleppo. Father of Demetrios Komnenos and progenitor of the Imperial Komnenid line. Brilliant commander and leader, greatly expanded Komnenid lands. Wounded in battle and died of poisoning fro his brother, Manuel Komnenos.
Ioannis Kantakouzenos – Prince of Samos. Major member of the Byzantine nobility, supported then defected from Manuel Komnenos’ planned coup against Demetrios in 1091. Granted the title of Megas Doux which he held till his death.
Manuel Komnenos (of Sinope) – Prince of Sinope. Major member of the Byzantine nobility, as Megas Doux defected from Michael VII to Demetrios Komnenos, allowing the latter to take Konstantinopolis, and the throne. Later launched a coup against his nephew, was defeated and ultimately killed.
Zoe Maliasenos – Wife of Alexios Komnenos, mother of Demetrios Komnenos, served several offices within both the Kappadokian and later Imperial state. Staunch ally of her son. Betrayed the hashashin to get them to murder the sons of the Seljuk Sultan. Was murdered by hashashin paid by the coin of Hajnal Arpad in 1103.
Anastasia Aristenos – First spymaster for Demetrios Komnenos as Prince of Kappadokia. Was alert to plots, managed to discover who the real killer of Alexios Komnenos was, but was assassinated before she could tell Demetrios.
Sultan Malik Shah – Great Seljuk, Emperor of the Seljuk Empire. Was restive until his sons were murdered by hashashin. Once it was discovered that Roman coin was behind the operation, began preparing revenge, which culminated in the First Seljuk War. Died without further issue, precipitating the First Seljuk Civil War.
Isaakios Komnenos – Brother to Alexios Komnenos, Prince of Antiocheia. Isaakios weathered the political storm of Michael’s reign, and was a strong supporter of his nephew Demetrios. Later, he commanded an imperial army during the First Seljuk War.
The Second Generation
From left to right – 1) Demetrios Komnenos “Megas”, 2) Anastasia Diasorenos, 3) Hajnal Arpad, 4) Metropolitan Manuel Komnenos, 5) Isaakios Thrakesios, 6) Kamal Qasim, 7) Sulieman al-Jabbari, 8) Evangelos Komnenos
From left to right – 1) Demetrios Komnenos “Megas”, 2) Anastasia Diasorenos, 3) Hajnal Arpad, 4) Metropolitan Manuel Komnenos, 5) Isaakios Thrakesios, 6) Kamal Qasim, 7) Sulieman al-Jabbari, 8) Evangelos Komnenos
Demetrios Komnenos “Megas” – Prince of Kappadokia from 1084 to 1090, then Emperor of the Romans from 1090 to 1135. His long reign allowed the Empire to grow expansively in all directions – winning victories in the Tripoli War (1088), the Conquest of Jerusalem (1094), The Croatian/Cyrenaican War (1100), the First Seljuk War (1103-1105), the Cuman War (1109), the Aswan War (1120) and finally the Second Seljuk War (1132-1133). Left a long brood of both legitimate and illegitimate children to squabble over his realm. Simply known to the rest of history as “the Megas.”
Anastasia Diasorenos – First wife of the Megas, a daughter of a minor frontier comes, wedding Demetrios in 1084. She had an astute and devious mind, guiding the still naïve prince throught his first treacherous years in Roman politics. Died in childbirth shortly after Demetrios captured Constantinople in 1090. Arguably she was the only true love of his life – after her death he rudely treated all future wives (and all the women he used).
Hajnal Arpad – Second wife of the Megas, daughter of King Salamon of Hungary. Loved Demetrios at first, but was spurned by him and began to plot revenge. Gave birth to the future Emperor Nikolaios, and tutored him. Plotted with the hashashin to assassinate the Emperor’s mother Zoe (which was successful), and the Emperor as well as his newly nominated Kaisar. Caught and executed after Demetrios survived the attack.
Metropolitan Manuel Komnenos – Fouled mouthed but brilliant brother of the Megas who opted for a life in the church. From 1090 until 1105 served unwillingly as Kaisar, before receiving a Metropolitanate and living in relative obscurity the rest of his life.
Isaakios Thrakesios – Strategos in the Roman army, and one of the most feared military commanders of his time. Served as a young soldier in the Megas’ army that took Constantinople in 1090, and rapidly rose through the ranks. Commanded field armies in the Cyrenaican, First Seljuk, Aswan, and Second Seljuk Wars. Served as Kaisar for four years (1105-1109). Father to Ioannis Thrakesios.
Kamal Qasim – Megos Domestikos from Demetrios’ coronation till the aftermath of the First Seljuk War, when he received the Principality of Jaffa, founding the Princely Qasim line of the dynatoi who today influence no less than three themes in the Empire.
Sulieman al-Jabbari – Grand Vizier to Malik Shah, discovered Zoe’s plot to assassinate the Sultan’s sons. Convinced the Sultan to go to war, after Malik’s death succeeded him as Sultan Sulieman of the Seljuks. A non-Seljuk, his lords revolted, precipitating the First Seljuk Civil War.
Evangelos Komnenos – Youngest brother of the Megas. Evangelos showed much promise, but unfortunately went insane during his first campaign during the Cyrenaican War. Eventually became a heretic, regarding himself as a prophet of Christ’s return. Was offered as a sacrifice to the Church by Nikolaios in return for the dismemberment of one of their own.
The Third Generation
From left to right, top to bottom: Nikolaios Komnenos, Michael Komnenos, Christophoros Komnenos, Georgios Komnenos, Ignatios Komnenos, Edmund de Normandie, Siddiqa Mazin, Ioannis Thrakesios, Romanos Thrakesios, Andronikos Dukas, Berthe Capet, Patriarch Anathasios, Godfrey of Salerno.
From left to right, top to bottom: Nikolaios Komnenos, Michael Komnenos, Christophoros Komnenos, Georgios Komnenos, Ignatios Komnenos, Edmund de Normandie, Siddiqa Mazin, Ioannis Thrakesios, Romanos Thrakesios, Andronikos Dukas, Berthe Capet, Patriarch Anathasios, Godfrey of Salerno.
Nikolaios Komnenos – Eldest legitimate son of the Megas (3rd overall), reigned as co-Emperor alongside his father from 1109-1135, and sole Emperor from 1135-1141. Scholar and academic, extremely intelligent. Lover of Ioannis Thrakesios, never fathered any legitimate children. Wrote the Demetriad, Nikolaid, and Lessons to the Prince. Was killed in battle against his brother Christophoros during the Brother’s War of 1141.
Michael Komnenos – Eldest son of the Megas, though illegitimate. Fought alongside his father during the First Seljuk War. Was named Kaisar in 1105, only to be assassinated on his way to consecration by the hashashin. Was only 19.
Christophoros Komnenos – Second eldest son of the Megas, though illegitimate. Was legitimized, served as Megos Domestikos from 1108 till 1141. Prince of Chaldea and Coloneia from 1133-1141. Ousted his brother Nikolaios after the Battle of Carthage, only to be assassinated by his younger brother Manuel in 1141, before he could be crowned Emperor.
Georgios Komnenos[/b] – Fourth eldest son of the Megas, also illegitimate. Drunken lout, inclined to wenching, few admirable skills as a ruler. Became comes of Syrte and Senoussi. Was murdered by persons unknown in 1139.
Ignatios Komnenos – Fifth eldest son of the Megas, a bastard by the Imperial Spymistress, Siddiqa Mazin. Was the center of a plot in 1120 to usurp the throne from the Nikolaios and install her son as co-Emperor to the Megas. Fled from politics into the church, became Metropolitan of Trebizond in 1133, later became Patriarch in 1159. Informed Emperor Manuel of Zeno’s plot to kill Sophie in 1166.
Edmund de Normandie – Third son of King Robert of England, Duke of Hampshire. Part of original Crusader invasion of Egypt, established himself as Prince of Alexandria. Aided the Megas during the First Seljuk War. Felt encroached upon by the Empire, declared himself King of Egypt in 1141. Was killed in battle by the troops of Manuel Komnenos shortly thereafter.
Siddiqa Mazin – Spymistress to the Megas from 1108 till 1122. Mother of Ignatios Komnenos, plotted to usurp the throne from Nikolaios and install her son as co-Emperor. Plot disintegrated when the Dukas brothers broke from plan. Fled to Aswan, was later captured and killed by Manuel Komnenos in 1140.
Ioannis Thrakesios – Eldest son of Isaakios Thrakesios. Was friend, later lover, of Nikolaios Komnenos. Became a strategos in his own right. After word of his affair with Nikolaios went public, led campaign in Aswan after Siddiqa Mazin, was killed in battle in 1122.
Romanos Thrakesios – Second son of Isaakios Thrakesios, became Prince of Bosnia on his father’s death. Became Megas Doux and commander of the Imperial fleet. Blackmailed by Manuel Komnenos into sending ships to help Christophoros’ revolt, allowing the former to defeat Nikolaios. After Manuel rose to the throne, was stripped of his titles.
Andronikos Dukas – First cousin of Emperor Michael Dukas, was centerpiece of Siddiqa Mazin’s plot to unseat Nikolaios Komnenos. His troops failed to march as planned, tipping the Emperors off.
Berthe Capet – Third wife of the Megas, mother of Manuel Komnenos, Demetrios Nearos, and Etiennette Komnenos. Her marriage sealed the fate of Siddiqa’s plots to have her son placed on the throne.
Patriarch Anastasios – Priest from Amorion, became Patriarch in 1117. Was a central part of Siddiqa’s plot to overthrow Nikolaios, but kept himself removed enough that he could not be prosecuted. Sided with Christophoros in War of Brothers, was assassinated by Manuel Komnenos the same night Christophoros Komnenos was killed.
Godfrey of Salerno – Duke of Salerno, brother of Bohemond, King of Sicily. Wanted his insane brother’s title for himself, sent his daughter Basiliea to seduce Emperor Manuel to accomplish this. Died when Imperial troops stormed Salerno in 1157 on their march towards Rome.
The Fourth Generation
From left to right, top to bottom: Manuel Komnenos, Romanos Komnenos, Demetrios Komnenos “Nearos,” Malhaz Komnenos, Zeno Komnenos, Theodoros Komnenos, Kosmas Komnenos, Ioannis Vataczes, Guiseppe Rimini, Innocent II, Basiliea de Hauteville, Hermann Arpad.
From left to right, top to bottom: Manuel Komnenos, Romanos Komnenos, Demetrios Komnenos “Nearos,” Malhaz Komnenos, Zeno Komnenos, Theodoros Komnenos, Kosmas Komnenos, Ioannis Vataczes, Guiseppe Rimini, Innocent II, Basiliea de Hauteville, Hermann Arpad.
Manuel Komnenos – Seventh son of the Megas, was Prince of Aswan from 1137-1141, and Emperor from 1141-1169. Noted plotter and poisoner. Launched a sneak assault that gained most of Egypt from King Edmund in 1139. Became Kaisar under Nikolaios once Christophoros’ betrayal became apparent. Backstabbed Nikolaios by sending aid to Christophoros, then assassinated Christophoros and the Patriarch on the former’s return to Constantinople in triumph. Conquered southern Italy, consolidated Egypt. Almost came to blows with Western Empire and the Pope. Barely survived an assassination attempt in 1160, and witnessed the Third Seljuk War from his deathbed. Used war to root out enemies, led to “Red Saint Irene’s” massacre of enemies in the Hagia Eirene. Was ousted in coup in 1169, exiled to Lesbos.
Romanos Komnenos – Sixth son of the Megas, though illegitimate. Prince of Edessa from 1133 onwards. Was often forgotten by the others in his family. Slothful, hedonist, had ill reputation amongst family and other lords. Died without issue.
Demetrios Komnenos “Nearos” – Eight son of the Megas. Megos Domestikos under Emperor Manuel and until 1175 under Emperor Basil. Prince of Imeretia from 1141 onwards. Apolitical, capable on the battlefield, was a reliable general for two emperors in numerous wars.
Malhaz Komnenos – Illegitimate child of Nikolaios’ “wife” Jacinta and a palace guardsman. Was initially used by Emperor Nikolaios as proof of his heterosexuality, though Patriarch Anathasios and others uncovered evidence of the child’s true origins. After the ascension of Manuel, was given the lands formerly belonging to Romanos Thrakesios.
Zeno Komnenos – Second son of Christophoros Komnenos, was initially exiled from Konstantinopolis as a threat to Emperor Manuel. Lived up to his reputation, murdered Prince Niketas and almost murdered Prince Basil in 1158, staged an almost successful assassination attempt on the Emperor in 1160. Connived to get himself appointed co-Emperor shortly thereafter. Led the Empire disastrously through the Third Seljuk War. Deposed and murdered in the “Red Saint Irene’s” massacre in 1166.
Theodoros Komnenos – Grandson of Isaakios Komnenos, Prince of Antioch, holding the same title. Was instrumental to the Imperial victory in the Great Rebellion of 1153-1155, commanded a field army in the Third Seljuk War. Father of Sophie Komnenos, and thus father-in-law to Emperor Basil.
Kosmas Komnenos – Brother of Theodoros Komnenos. Brilliant army and navy commander, won Joshua’s Ford, Crete, and Rhodes for the imperial forces during the Great Rebellion. Suffered a disastrous defeat at Tell Bashir in the Third Seljuk War. Reinstated, commanded Imperial troops in Spain for many years.
Ioannis Vataczes – Strategos, and mentor to Basil Komnenos. Was widely considered one of the most formidable commanders in the Roman army, but was known for bawdy mouth and bad manners. Was initially denied command in Third Seljuk War by Zeno, but became Basil’s second in command during the Syrian campaign. Fell at the horrific Battle of Menorca.
Giuseppe Rimini – Archbishop, Papal nuncio, later Cardinal, then Pope Boniface. Built up extensive contacts within the Eastern Empire, successfully kept Emperor Manuel from conquering Rome. Befriended Basil Komnenos, later became his tutor and lifelong friend.
Pope Innocent II – Pope from 1132 until 1171. Successfully navigated difficult diplomatic straits between the Eastern and Western Empires. Bravely faced the army of Emperor Manuel with only a retinue of priests and pilgrims in 1158.
Basiliea de Hauteville – Daughter of the Duke of Salerno. Sent to Konstantinopolis to seduce Manuel, succeeds, becomes his wife. Mother of Basil and Niketas. Attempted to depose Manuel in the Great Rebellion, intending on setting Basil on the throne. Was defeated and committed suicide.
Hermann Arpad – Second Arpad Western Emperor, from 1138 until 1154. Giant of a man, brave and capable commander. Was repeatedly diplomatically outfoxed by both Emperor Manuel and Pope Innocent II.
The Fifth Generation
Basilieos Komnenos – Called “the Magnificent.” Prince of Apulia and Calabria from 1157 till 1167, then co-Emperor from 1167-1169, sole Emperor from 1169 onwards. Arguably the greatest military mind ever produced by the Romanoi – victorious in the Syrian Campaign (1164-1167), Almeria Campaign (1170-1172), Toledo Campaign (1173-1177), the Moroccan/Italian Campaigns (1179-1186), and the Cuman Campaign (1188). Brave, chivalrous, kindhearted, antithesis of most Roman rulers. Created the Spanish hyperexarchate. Increasingly ill, fraught with succession problems.
Demetrios Komnenos “Koutsos” – Older brother of Basilieos Komnenos, Prince of Kappadokia. A hunchback with a slur, was never considered for imperial succession. Brilliant, loyal, often serves as Basil’s regent while the Emperor is away on campaign. Was Kaisar from Basil’s sole Emperorship in 1169 to 1186.
Sophie Komnenos – Daughter of Theodoros Komnenos, and wife of Basil Komnenos. Intelligent girl, inclined towards the darker arts of statecraft – often did “dirty work” necessary for Basil’s rule, even over the Emperor’s objections. Totally and wholly loyal to her husband.
Leo Komnenos – Basil’s younger brother, Prince of Apulia, Calabria and Salerno. Dubious loyalty at best, known to have taken French coin in the past. Rather incapable administrator.
Rodrigo Jimenez – One of Basil’s best friends from childhood, son of exiled Spanish nobility, acted often as an Imperial spy. Notorious lecher. Loyal. Tapped by Basil to become hyperexarch of Spain. Dallied with Empress Sophie, thus father to the secret bastard Heraklios Komnenos.
Alexandros Thrakesios – Childhood friend of Basil, son of disgraced Romanos Thrakesios. Became a well known commander in the Roman army. Married Basil’s sister, father of Basil’s nephew Romanos Thrakesios. Died in the horrific Battle of Menorca.
Enguerrand Komnenos – Basil’s youngest brother. Skilled diplomat, became first Exarch in Spain. Has grand ideas of his place in Roman politics, jealous that Rodrigo became hyperexarch. Has been known to take French coin.
Clemente Kosaca – Prince of Kairouan, Megos Domestikos and outside of Basil, one of the most formidable military commanders in Roman history. Basil’s second in command for most of the Spanish campaigns – named Megos Domestikos. Head of the army faction at court. Daughter Sophia was married to Thomas Komnenos, but was murdered by Mehtar Lainez.
Sultan Sulieman Arslan – Emir of Esfahan from 1141-1152, Sultan of the Seljuk Empire from 1152 on. Brilliant commander, chivalrous, launched the most devastating Turkish attack on Romanion since the days of Alp Arslan. Managed to penetrate as far as the Marmara, camped within sight of Konstantinopolis. Made peace for a paltry sum of land, on belief that a greater enemy was coming from the east. Has kept the peace since.
Drogo Capet – King of France from 1155 onwards. Has aspirations for rebuilding Charlemagne’s Empire. Noted plotter, had designs on Spain, Italy and Germany. Set up enormous spy network across Europe to carry out his plans. Outwitted King Richard of England, and now has set his son Louis on the English throne. Temporarily thwarted by the Roman Emperor during the Moroccan/Italian War. Suffered a poisoning attempted by his eldest son at Roman encouraging. Now sends coin to discontents within the Roman Empire in an effort to weaken it.
Richard de Normandie – King of England from 1163 until 1176. After Basil of Romanion, arguably the greatest commander in Christendom. Eagerly joined the Papal Crusade called for Spain, cooperated well with Romanoi plans. Undercut by Drogo, abandoned Crusade to attack the French King. Killed in Battle in 1176.
Heinrich VI Arpad – King of the Germans, Emperor of the West. Styles himself a diplomat and a plotter, but not in the league of Drogo. Outmanuevered by the French King while on Crusade, was forced to return home to deal with numerous noble rebellions. Barely has control over his realm.
Knud Knytling – Irascible, ancient King of the Danes. Has a sharp tongue and sword for anyone who annoys him – especially Boleslav of Poland.
Boleslav Premyslid – Rather dimwitted King of Poland. Eternal enemy of Knud Knytling. Their rivalry prevented them from going on the Crusade.
Magnus Knytling – King of Sweden, secretly sent 200 longships to Majorca, launching the first strike of the Crusade and given Sweden a Mediterranean toehold.
Lord Amalric – Distant cousin of Drogo, French ambassador to Konstantinopolis and center of Drogo’s spy ring there. Attempted to use one of his agents to subvert the Romans, instead was assassinated on orders of Empress Sophie.
Brunhilde von Oesengaarde – Double agent, working for the Romans but secretly giving information to the French. Was milked by Rodrigo Jimenez for information on her spy networks, then tossed aside when her usefulness was up. Her information led to the assassination of Amalric.
The Sixth Generation
David Komnenos – Eldest son of Basil Komnenos. Excellent strategist, smart politician, was regarded by many as the most capable of his older sons. However, had a long vengeful streak, and like his grandfather, had a inclination to poison. Led the relief force that saved the Emperor in Spain in 1184, was named Kaisar and Exarch of Mauretania. Married Alienor Capet, daughter of King Drogo, and had one son, Alexios Komnenos.
Manuel Komnenos – Second eldest son of Basil, Prince of Tangiers. Indolent, lazy, and hedonistic, never considered a serious contender for the throne. Resents all of his brothers, but is too lazy to do much about them.
Thomas Komnenos – Third eldest son of Basil, formidable warrior, if not so formidable commander. Proud, vengeful, with a ferocious temper. Worships the ancient ideas of what it meant to be Roman, and loud advocate of retaking Rome. Named Exarch of Tarraconensis. Married Sophia Komnenos, who was then murdered. Thomas blamed David, and ordered his best friend and spymaster Mehtar Lainez to kill David.
Heraklios Komnenos – Fourth son of Basil Komnenos. Still a boy, shows little inclination for things military, but is has a sharp mind for things scholarly and statesmanlike. After infighting between elder sons, was named in Basil’s will as senior-Emperor, with David as junior.
Romanos Thrakesios – Son of Alexandros Thrakesios, nephew of the Emperor, named Exarch of Baetica. Still a young man, easily led around by Hyperexarch Rodrigo Jimenez.
Mehtar Lainez – Son of Strategos Gregor Lainez. Secretly in love with his best friend, Thomas Komnenos. Taken at a young age into the Imperial Hand at Sophie Komnenos’ insistence, trained in art of sabotage and assassination. Became unearthly at these skills, became Sophie’s personal “assistant,” later Spymaster for Exarchate of Tarraconensis. Had a personal feud with David. Witnessed Thomas and his wife making love, became enraged and killed her, before claiming before Thomas he had evidence linking David to the assassination.
Murad Arslan – Son of Sulieman Arslan, and presumed heir to the Seljuk Empire. Was an aggressive young man during the Syrian campaign, since has had time and experience to hone his skills and tone down his arrogance.
Alienor Capet – Daughter of Drogo Capet, wife of David Komnenos. Was immediately shunned by her husband on her arrival. Gave birth to son Alexios – second in line to the French throne, as well as the Roman throne. Fiercely protective of her child.
Louis Capet – Son of Drogo Capet, King of England. Was to succeed to his father’s Empire, but has shown himself weak willed and easily persuaded – the Roman offer of a title persuaded him to attempt to kill his father. Still sits in confinement, despite being Drogo’s heir.
The Seventh Generation
Alexios Komnenos
Last edited:
Ah so many interesting characters. When I have time I will have to read the begining of the saga again.
Anyway congratulations on the award Genera_BT! A truly well deserved honor!
~Lord Valentine~
Anyway congratulations on the award Genera_BT! A truly well deserved honor!
~Lord Valentine~