Sultanate Court of The Hedjaz

[Cecasander]

Welcome to Makkah, holiest of cities. Birthplace of the Prophet and capital op the Hedjaz.

The Kaaba, one of the holiest places in the world.

Lā ilāhā illāllāh; Muhammad-ur rasul-ullāh
There is no God but God, and Muhammad is his Messenger

Makkah al-Mukkaramah​

In the Arabian desert, in a valley several leagues from the Red Sea lies the holy city of Makkah al-Mukkaramah, also known as Mecca. It was here that the Prophet Mohammad was born in the 570th year of the Roman calendar, and where he lived untill his Hijrah to Medina. The centre of the city is marked by a remarkable square black building, known as the Kaaba. All muslims in the world should prey towards the Kaaba - the Qibla -, and should at least travel to it once in their life - the hajj - (if their health and finances allow it)as it is the centre of the Islam. It is said that the Kaaba was build by the prophet Ibrahim as a model to the house of Allah in heaven. It contains a black stone, which felt from heaven, and was said to be able to absorb the sins of it's worshippers, thus turning black.
The Masjid al Haram mosque that surrounds the Kaaba is the greatest mosque in Makkah, and is also build by Ibrahim and his son Ishmael. The palace of the Sultan, defender of the holy cities Mecca and Medina, is just across the great square of the Hajj, where all of the world's pilgrims arrive. The city is sealed off by a thick defensive wall, that is patrolled all the times. The three gates are always guarded, and only muslims are allowed into the Holy City. The punishment for a non-muslim is death.

Madinat Rasul Allah​

Madinat Rasul Allah (City of the Prophet of Allah), better known as Medina, lies a few hundred leagues north of Mecca, and became the home of the Prophet when he was exiled from Mecca. It was here that the first true mosque - the Masjid al-Quba - was build, inside the house of Muhammad. Muhammad had been envited to act as a governor when the city of Yathrib, as Medina was known then - was in civil war. He was able to unite the clans and religions of the city, and used it to conquer Mecca, to rid it of heathens. It was here that the centre of the Islamic power was untill after Muhammads death, and there were discussions about who was the rightfull successor of the Prophet (the Caliph). The Prophet was burried in the Masjid al-Quba mosque, as all as the first two Caliphs. Nowadays, Medina is one of the largest, most important and holiest cities in Arabia.

The Hajj, the pilgrimage to Makkah​

Pilgrims should only wear an Ihram; a garment consisting of two sheets of white unhemmed cloth draped over the body; plus a pair of sandals, as all pilgrims are equal in the eyes of Allah. Pilgrims gather at the Square of the Hajj, and wlk to the Kaaba, where they perform the Tawaf, which consists of circling the Kaaba seven times, in a counterclockwise direction. Then, the pilgrims walk back and forth seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, with symbolizes Hagar's (Ibrahim's concubine) fanatic search for water, before the spring of Zamzam was revealed to her by Allah. Pilgrims may drink from the spring of Zamzam, although it's not part of the Hajj. After this, pilgrims walk to the hill of Arafat, where the Prophet gained it's messenges from Allah. The pilgrims spend most of the time (untill sundown) in prayer or reflecting their life on this holy place. After returning from Arafat, the pilgrims should travel to Mina, near Makkah, where they participate in the stoning of the devil. This involves throwing pebbles at the three pillars in Mina, which stand for the devil. Many pilgrims shave their head after this, as a sign of rebirth after the Hajj cleansed them from their sins. After the Stoning of the Devil, the Tawaf is performed again.

-------------------

Medina

Nation: The Hedjah Sultanate
Head of State: Mohammed Al Muhktar
State Religion: Shiite
Other Religions: Sunni, Jewism
Culture: Arabic, Bedouin
Provinces: Mecca and Medina
Cities: Mecca, Medina, Mina, Jedda, Taif and Yanbu
Ports: Jedda and Yanbu

Stats: 1/1/4/4(5)/2 --> [1/1/4/5/2]

 

[Cecasander]

The palace of the Sultan, from the side​

The court of the Sultan​

The Sultan's palace is along the Square of the Hajj, opposite of the sacred al-Masjid Al-Haram mosque. The palace is mostly white and light blue, and stretches nearly to the city walls. The palace itself is defended by a thin wall, and there are a few guards posted at the three entrance gates. Some guards armed with bow and arrow are watching the city from some of the palaces towers. The interior of the palace shows the might and power of the Sultan and of the city of Mecca. There is a lot of marble, some gold, and it breaths a calm, pleasant atmosphere, a rarity in the desert. There is a private mosque and a rather large menagery at the rear of the palace, as well as a big inner garden with a beautifull fountain.

Important people at the court​

Sultan Muhammad Al-Muhktar (1382 - ....)
The Sultan is the single most important and powerfull person in the Hedjaz. Although he is old, and sometimes looses concentration, he is still a wise and alert men who cannot be fooled. Also, as he has been throughout his reign, he has been nice to his people, and tolerant to other cultures and religions within his realm. This tolerance made him popular by the large sunni population, much to discomfort of the sunni leaders within Mecca and (especialy) Medina. His tolerance to sunnies also made debate possible between the Hedjaz and sunni areas, like the Timurid and Mameluk empires.

Grand Vizir Ali al-Burrakah (1390 -....)
The Grand Vizir the the Sultan's ally and best friend. This former governor of Medina gained the Sultan's trust in the first great war with the Mamaluks, which was lost. However, the Egyptian army suffered a massive defeat at Medina at the hands of Ali al-Burrakah, and was forced to retreat, and claim only half of the Hadjaz. The Grand Vizir is an old, charismatic person, who still visits his old city often, and who is sometimes send as an official envoy during important events abroad. Last but not least, he is the Sultan's most trusted advisor.

Prince Ali ibn Allah (1421 - ....)Ali's true family name is not known, as he was an orphin found on the streets in Jeddah, along the Red Sea near Mecca. He gained his nickname 'Son of Allah' while fighting for the city militias of Jeddah, Mina and Mecca. It was he who often led the peasants in battle with thieves and robbers, and then shared the treasure with the people. Although he was young, he was soon promoted to officer, and this catched the Sultan's eye. He made Ali commander of his elite camelrider corpse, the Royal Red Guard. Ali is the youngest advisor at the Sultan's court, and one of the Sultan's favorites.

The Emir (13?? - ....)
Nobody really knows his real name or identity, but is known that he was a rogue thief leader before he was employed by the Sultan. He was captured, and as the Sultan was in awe with his leading capacities, he was offered freedom if he would lead the Royal White Guard, the Sultan's personal bodyguards. He was also made leader of the Mecca militia's. The Emir is always dressed in a scarf and a rough brown desert gear. The Emir is the Sultan's most important military advisor.

Omar Aziz (1418 -....)
Although Omar has no official status within the court, he still advises the Sultan on much matters, mainly concerning religion. Being a Sunni, Omar Aziz often disagrees with other religious advisors. He is often considered the 'highest' Sunni within the Hedjaz by Shia clerkecy, but that isn't right. It is in fact Ahmed ibn Omar Aziz, his son, who is the most powerfull Sunni, at least within Mecca or Medina. He gathered a small but loyal support of Sunnies who wish to throw over the present Shia rulership. The common Sunni peasants see the Sultan and his follow as just, however, and therefore Ahmed doesn't have much support. Due to loyalty to his Sultan and the fanatic background of his son's ideas, Omar Aziz considers Ahmed as 'lost'.

Saira (1423 - ....)
The Sultan's third wife (his first two wifes - Raisa and Fatima had died at an early age by unnatural cause), also the leader of his harem. Saira tries to be a good wife and exelent lover, and prefers to evade action and confrontation in public. However, she has a very sharp mind and possibly and even sharper thoung, and made the Sultan made up his mind on several occasions.

Hasan (1416 - ....)
Son of Sultan Muhammed and his first wife Raisa and heir to the throne. He inherited his mother's love for adventure (which - presumably - caused her death) and had spend most of his time outside - preferable abroad. He is a smart man, but not always very bright. Hasan prefers writing and reading above fighting, and wrote several travel stories during his trips to Baghdad, Zanzibar and even Adjeh. Although he passed his 35th birthday, he doesn't mind being prince instead of sultan, as he thinks his old father is doing a great job, and he doesn't like the responsability that much. Also, he doesn't have a spouse yet.

Najat (1429 - ....)
Daughter of Sultan Muhammed and his second wife, Fatima. Najat is a typical Arabian beauty who is being treasured by her father and her older brother, Hasan. She has been promised to Prince Ali ibn Allah, but so far the Sultan tried to prefent a merriage as long as possible, afraid to lose his daughter. Najat is nice, caring and passionate, but doesn't really love her live, being trapped in a glass cage.

The inner court of the Sultan's palace​

Policies and Ambassadors
The Sultan believes everybody is equal under Allah, and thereforse doesn't make any difference between Sunni and Shia followers of Allah. The Sultan believes Christians are uncivilized, greedy people who should be converted to the True Faith. However, Sultan Mohammed believes in tolerance and peace, and believes in peacefull co-existance between the three Faiths of Yeruzalayim.

Ambassadors:

From the Zayyadid Caliphate:
Abu'l-Abbas Ahmad II

 

[Cecasander]

Armies of the Hedjaz

The Royal White Guard
The Royal White Guard is the Sultan´s own guarding army and the elite army of the Hedjaz. It is commanded by the mysterious Emir. White Guard is stationed in the Sultanate palace, and exists of 800 elite camel riders and an aditional 500 horse archers for backup. Footmen guard the palace and holy places within the Hedjaz. Archers guard the most important sites from towers, unseen by the untrained eye. A dispatch of 30 of the Sultan´s most loyal men protects the Sultan with his life.
- The Royal White Guard is in Egypt, guarding Egyptian terretories while they are fighting the was in al-Andalus

The Royal Red Guard
The Red Guard forms the main body of the Hedjaz´ army. The Red Guard is led by the young Ali ibn Allah. The Red Guard exists of a corpse of about 1000 camel riders, 500 horse archers and pikemen on horseback and a foot army of 3000 pike- and swordmen and 1000 archers.
- The Royal Red Guard is presently in Egypt, keeping peace.

The Militias
The cities of Jedda, Mina, Mecca and Medina have a force of civilian militias that are badly equipped, but have high moral and do anything to defend their city. Mecca and Medina have about 5000 militias each.
- The Militias of Medina are have fully prepared the city defences, but the gates are still open. Other militias are standing by.

The Royal Fleet
The fleet exists of 50 galleys and 10 galleases, based at the large harbour of Jedda. Although the fleet falls directly under the Sultan´s command, they have high authonomy. Their main task is to keep the Red Sea free from pirates, and protect ignorent merchants... for a price.
- The Royal Fleet is presently based at Jedda.

 

[Cecasander]

The court is officialy opened. The Sultan can recieve you now, although the palace is still under construction

 

[Blade!]

Mohammed Al Muhktar,
Sultan of the Hedjaz, Keeper of the Holy Places, and Defender of their Sanctity, Pious Child of Allah

Elder Brother,

Salaam Alekum, I hope all is well. My defense of tolerance and trade continues, though now I fight to defend Islam's western flank. Trade from the Hedzaj has been good, so as I wrote to my father, who has retired to the holiest of cities for contemplation, I have sent by his household this letter to your court.

I have captured the Crusader held cities of the Levant, and to you I send these relics for installation in the saftey of the Kaaba and your guardianship. YOu will find included the former headstone of the Crusader destroyed Great Mosque at Acre, which I hope to rebuid in time, and given that the Crusaders do not retake the city.

It is my concern, that the people on Hajj learn of Islam's fight in the far west, and to retain the Holy Lands; from this point, please consider my father, the former Sultan, as fully empowered to represent the Zayyanid Caliphate and the Almohad Empire to your court.

Your younger brother,

Akbe Mohammed,
Head of the Zayyanid Caliphate, Emir-Elector of Almohid Algeria, Emir-Elector of Almohid Morocco, Lord-Protector of the Maghrib, Crimea, and Al-Andalus, Sharif of Oran, Guardian of Western Civilization, Defender of the Reverend Mother, and Premiere of the Almohad Throne and the Holy Almohad Empire; Known as the Lion of the Maghrib, and Victor of Thrace. Holder of The Moldovian Order of Moldu'c

 

[unmerged(31994)]

A letter arrives from Cairo

Unto "Sultan" Mohammed of the Hedjaz

Know that the Calipah of Cairo has little tolerance to heretics, especially "shiite" heretics. Your people are followers of the sunnah of the prophet, and not followers of the heresy of the Shiites of Ali like you.
The Kabah and the Holy grave of the prophet are under occupation by your wicked forces. The Caliphate will keep an eye on you from now on.
Know that we are the "ONLY" connection you have with the world.It is advised you listen to us and obey like the filth you are.

Signed the Calipah of Cairo, Hakim bin kamal, your superior.

 

[Blade!]

*A letter is hand delivered from the Zayyanid estate near Mecca*

Elder Brother,

I bring blessed tiding, the Holy Lands have been freed for Moslems from now until forever, as we speak new Mosques will begin their construction, and pilgrims flock to the Holy Sites from all directions... except, of course by the Mediterranean, where war still lingers, and a new crusader lifts its head in the form of Castille. I pray the preachers of Mecca and Medina will spread the word to the pilgrims from far and wide.

I am, however, not a man of war, for it is true Islam is of peace. My sentiments match yours directly; peace and prosperity, are the very lifeblood of Islam, and should be expected from all Dar-es-Islam. Know that tolerance is considered on high in my mind, and I shall guarentee your independence as Defender of the Holy Places. My father, the former Sultan, will come to your hall soon, and he will bear offers of a renewed trade agreement and of alliance.

Your servant,

Akbe Mohammed

 

[Cecasander]

The desert is warming up

Militia camp just outside Medina

"More are reported to the north, sir, together with the camp at the wadi that makes five already".

The scout overlooked the map that was drawn on the barrack wall, and drew another cross.
Prince Ali ibn Allah, commander of the Royal Red Guard overlooked the map too. Five camps, and these were old the ones they knew. "It would certainly explain why there are no travelers are comming from the north", he said to himself. Five camps, that would mean thousends, perhaps even ten thousend. Or worse. The entire army of the Hedjaz had three, four thousend at most, and that included the militias as well. The Mameluke army was at least four times as big.

"Sir", Ahmed, his Sunni luitenant said "As far as we can see, they are still building up. But we will be overran when they attack. Perhaps we should ask more troops to the Sultan".

Ali nodded. "We should do that, although the only real army we have left is the White Guard, and we still won't stand a change".

Ali walked to the rear wall, as the scout left. "You know, we should send another messenger to Mecca. Report the Sultan what we've learned, that we won't stand a change and that we either need powerfull friend or a powerfull army. Preferably both".

He though about that for a moment. "You know?" Ali said again "I think I am going to be that messenger"

 

[Cecasander]

The Sultanate court, two days later

Ali ibn Allah showed the map to the Sultan.
"My lord, at least five camps, of which four within two days march to Medina"

"So the intelligence is true. That darn despot".

"My Lord?"

"This new Sunni Calipah had been a despot since the beginning of his reign. Changing his ways from Shia to Sunni. Actualy forcing his ideas upon the Shia, unlike most of the leaders. And now starting a kind of crusade against the Shia movement".

"Have you explained your vision upon the Islam to him, my lord?"

"Ofcourse I have. Multiple times, after I got his agressive letter. The Zeyyanids know about it, but I fear they are to occupied with fighting Iberians".

"And other allies?"

"The Mameluks are powerful. They apparently allied with the Turks, and I fear they have power over Fez as well. The Timurid Empire is to weak to keep itself in one peace, and the Muscatians are probably to busy fighting Yemenites, or trading with strange black savages".

"My lord, we could train an army. We could try to reinstate the Black Guard again, if we get support from the people. The Emir would be fit for it".

"Yes he would". The old Sultan sighed. He got dreams of hordes of horsemen sweaping over the desert, destroying all that was good and holy. It seemed his dream did come true. It just seem so unevadable. Even if he would double his armies - he wouldn´t have more supplies - then the Mameluks would still crush him.

"I fear we have no choice but to prepare for war. I hope we were quick enough to start building an army of our own. I shall order camelbreeders to get their trainers ready, and ask the Emir to assemble his best men. Although I never hoped to do this again, I shall recreate the Black Guard".

"My Lord, I shall return to Medina and inform the Red Guard thay they should prepare for war. I shall order the reinforcement of the city walls and get ready to draft as many able men for the defence of the city".

"That will be your orders, Ali ibn Allah, my most trusted general. I trust in you, and trust in Allah, might he be on our side might weapons clash. Meanwhile I shall send envoys to all corners of the world, and vow for peace a final time".

Ali ibn Allah greeted his Sultan and left the throne room, leaving a troubled old leader behind.

 

[unmerged(31994)]

A soldier arrived from the Abbasid Caliphate, or the still fledging Mameluck state.
He rode through the towns and cities of Hedjaz, from the mountain town of Taif down to the port city of Jeddah.
"Oh you those who believe!Hear yee Hear yee!Hedjaz is part of the Abbasid Caliphate!surrender your towns and village to the Calipah of Cairo.After the burning of Baghdad you have broken away, but we have returned stronger than ever!
Oh you those who believe!throw off the yoke of the shiite Kaffirs! and embrace Allahs reign!remember the verse "he who does not do by gods law is a kaffir!"
The shiites have backstabbed Ali may allah be happy with him!and ruined much good!and killed many great Calipahs! Mustasim of Noriyyah, Ali Uthman of Grogian!and Calipah Rami Es-Said bani Abbas!
Oh Mecca and Medina!the holy cities are under the control of filth!rebel and save this holy land from the evil shiites!Arise my brothers arise!"Remember the days of the Abbasids!Mecca and Medina were protected under our leadership until the mongols slaughtered us 150 years ago!today we face a new future, Allah is great!"
Thus echoed the voice of intolerance in the deserts of Hedjaz, and all has heard.

 

[Blade!]

The Coming of Former Sultan Abu'l-Abbas Ahmad II to the Court of The Hedjaz in October of 1452​

​

The former Sultan and founder of the Zayyanid Caliphate, Abu'l-Abbas Ahmad II, slowly, with the aid of a cane, approached Sultan Mohammed Al Muhktar. Abu'l-Abbas had retired into meditation in the holy city of Mecca, and wore his white beard stained with henna as a mark of his permenent state of Hajj. This man, was renowned through out Dar-es-Islam, as being one of the greatest living heroes... for it was he who beseiged and destroyed the last remnants of the Eastern Roman Empire, and brought their holdings into Dar-es-Islam and out of Dar-es-Harb. In his revered wisdom he had granted to the lands to the Ottomans who were the bulwarks of the faith in the north.

He lived with a few servants and Zayyanid guards, along with his elderly wife in a modest enclosed courtyard near the palace. His voice was warm if not strong, and he called out.

"Salaam Alekum my friend.

My son has urged me to re-insert myself into the realm of policy... and from what I have heard of your concerns, it is most worthy that I do.

I did not fight against Christian and pagan, simply to see a madman bring down the peace of Islam. However, understand that you have nothing to fear. The Caliph, will not allow this false Caliph to attack you, for it would severly violate the mandate that lies upon us while the Fatwa of Tolerance of 1435 is still in affect. And that will be long in affect until Andalusia and other lands are free to Moslems... If I might recite from my memory, the Fatwa in Caliph Maalik Ar Rasheed's wisdom...

From a point south of Toledo, then going eastwards following the coastline of Alger and Tunis; heading up north between the island of Corfu and the mainland, all the way up to the river of Donau; following the Donau downstreams until it reaches the Black Sea; then heading up far north following the river of Dnepr - this line will exist.

This line represents, from where south, all people of the book are to be unmolested and to live side by side in harmony... it is the realm of peace, where no aggression shall be allowed, and all Moslem leadership is seen as blessed... further it is implied in the Fatwa of 1437, that the further differentiated Sufi is accepted, and thereby all things less radical... for the Sufi beleive in the inferiority of men, and further Prophets, and other such oddities. No, men of our faith have long since made peace with the Sunni doctrines... and even if the false Caliph of Egypt who would usurp the rightful elected Caliph were to defy the Ulama, then we always have what I started.

The Zayyanid Caliphate lives to serve Islam, and bears no claim ona ny Islamic leadership... beholden to the laws of Islam and Islamic brotherhood. It will brook no aggression agains thte holy cities of Mecca and Medina; the one who brings war here is no Moslem.

In any case, my son sends paper to confirm his endorsement of peace, and update the treaty already in place."

Zayyanid-Hedjaz Pact of Secure Peace for the Holy Places & Islamic Brotherhood (October 1452)

I. The undersigned do hereby recognize that all articles of this pact are valid in all cases.

II. The undersigned do hereby recognize their cosigners and their successors as the only legal rulers of their respective realms.

III. The spirit of this document, which is to build the signers' strength and unity, bringing prosperity to its people, and Islam, in the region and abroad, shall be held in good faith, witnessed by Allah and the Islamic world.

SECURITY
IV. In times when one party of this agreement falls under attack, if requested, the other shall declare war on the offending realm if called upon. Should such means of active involvement be unavailable, monetary aid shall be provided.

IVa. As this alliance is public, any non-Muslim party that wages war on one member has broken any alliances with the other, for an attack on the Zayyanid Caliphate is an attack on the Hedjaz Sultanate and vice versa when it comes to non-Muslim powers. Should any power wage agggression on the Holy Cities, the Zayyanid Caliphate is duty bound to wage war upon the offending party.​

V. Whenever possible, consultations shall be made regarding future military deployments and strategies.

VI. The Zayyanid Caliphate and the Hedjaz Sultanate shall allow each others' troops passage through each others' respective lands at all times.

VII. The Zayyanid Caliphate and the Hedjaz Sultanate recognize the supremacy of Islam, and in the course of events, while acting together, they will do their best to ensure the freedom and propagation of said faith in making agreements with non-Islamic powers.

VIII. The Zayyanid Caliphate and the Hedjaz Sultanate do hereby swear before the grace of Allah never to wage war upon each other and to observe the terms of this pact at all times, even if other pact come into conflict with this supercedant pact.

TRADE & COMMERCE
IX. The co-signers will continue to work to bring their nations closer together economically, in terms of both commerce and policy.

X. The co-signers shall allow each others' merchants safe passage, and quarter in each others' respective lands at all times; providing for their defense and any aid in the event of danger.

XI. In the markets held by the Hedjaz Sultanate and the Zayyanid Caliphate, the Muslim traders originating from these two nations shall have unfettered access to the rights of trade. A tariff of no more than 5% will be assessed on any good moved between the provences, excepting slaves and silk on which a tariff of no more than 7% shall be assesed. No tarfiff shall be placed on holy books and scholarly works.

[x]
[x]Sultan Akbe Mohammed, Zayyanid Caliphate[/color]

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Meanwhile in Mecca and Medina...

The Holy Order had arrived, and in force, taking to the parapets and gatherings they called to the sons and daughters of Islam to prepare for the defense of Islam from both vile Crusaders and usurper Caliphs who would claim the Sunni Caliph Hisham ibn al-Watik's title and bring war to the Holy Places.

"Come forth... come forth, and bring the force of Allah against Apostate and Heretic... bring safety and security to your bretheren!"

 

[Cecasander]

Mecca, The Square of the Hajj, the massive gathering point between the Masjid al-Quba mosque (that held the Kaaba) and the Sultanate Palace.

Thousands, if not ten thousands had assembled at the Square of the Hajj. People from Mecca and Medina, as well as from other cities across the Hedjaz, and thousands of pilgrims stood together at the square. The High-Imam of the great Masjid al-Quba mosque chanted the prayers across the square. From minarets throughout the city came prayers of peace. With the reports of a possible treaty of friendship between the Zayyanids and the Hedjaz the morals were high. Rumours about an envoy within the city raised the spirits of the masses.

Then the Grand Vizier appeared in front of the palace. Members of the Royal White Guard kept the people away, as the Grand Vizier, Ali al-Burrakah, walked to the higher platform in the centre of the square. Three guards followed him with a prisoner, that was blinded with a black scarf. A herald climbed on the platform.

"People of Allah, Followers of the Prophet, listen to the words of the Grand Vizier"

The herald stepped down. The mass tempered into near silence. Prayers were still filling the air.

"People of Makkah, people of Medina, people of Jedda, Mina, Taif and Yanbu. Pilgrims, Travellers and Merchants, hear my words, for they are just and true. The Holy Cities are being threatened by vandals, by a self-proclaimed Caliph who had seized the throne of Cairo. This man has the desire to 'rebuild' the Abbasid Empire by seizing more land that is his own. He claims to own the Holy Cities of Mecca and Medina, and is about to invade if we do not surrender the Holy Sites to him".

The Grand Vizier held quiet for a second, and noticed that most of the imams were silent too. He looked over the crowd.

"This 'Caliph' declared the Sultan a heretic, and tried to get the Islam united behind him. But to no avail. The True Caliph didn't declare a Jihad, and doubted the Abbasid claim of heresy. The Zayyanids of Algeria proposed an alliance with the Hedjaz".

The Grand Vizier looked at the group of clerics from the Holy Order, that had been reciting the Quran on the square.

"People of Allah, slander has been spread" - He pointed at the prisoner - "The 'Caliph' of Cairo seeks to create a who Sunni state. He doesn't believe in Peace and Tolerance as it has been stated in the Holy Fatwa of Tolerance. He turned the Mameluke state into a Sunni one, and suppressed the Jewish and Shiite minorities. They have been prosecuted for heresy. People of the Hedjaz, you KNOW that the Sultan is no heretic, and that the Shia branch of the Islam is equal to the Sunni one. After all, everybody is equal to Allah. As long as there is Peace and Tolerance, there would be no fear, no pain and no injustice. Do not believe these men" - he pointed to the prisoner again - "But believe your heart, that will tell you that the Sultan is Just and Fair. I call you, people of Mecca, Medina and the rest of the Hedjaz, to defend your cities and your faith, as they will depend on you".

There was silence for a second, then a massive cheering started, that filled the square in a huge noise. The Holy Order started their work again, the imams started crying their prayers over the city, and the Grand Vizier left, followed by the imprisoned Abbasid herald.

----

Meanwhile, inside the Sultanate Palace, Sultan Muhammad al-Mukhtar of the Hedjaz was meeting with the old Sultan of the Zayyanid Caliphate, Abu'l-Abbas Ahmad II in the palaces Grand Dinner.

"My Lord, as I said before, it is an honor to have you in Mecca as our guest. Your deeds are great, and known throughout Dar-el-Islam. You are most welcome to stay at the palace at our guest and ambassador of the Zayyanid Caliphate".

He held quiet for a moment, looking at the former Sultan who would be at least as old as him, but had acieved so much more in his life.

"The treaty you proposed... it is beyond expectation, my lord. An alliance an trade treaty would be very benevicial to Peace and Tolerance, and ofcourse benevicial to the entire Islam. I would be glad... honored to sign such a treaty with you. Although I hope it will never become needed".

 

[unmerged(31994)]

A letter arrives from Cairo

Unto "Sultan" Mohammed of Hedjaz

We have withdrawn our troops.War shall not come this day, but we will be back soon and Islam shall reign upon all again.
We are now at peace, a distaseful one at that.Military build up has siezed, and I am considering a better proposition.
On one condition, that you do not allow the Almohads any influence in the Hedjaz, and we shall see Hedjaz as an equal.
If you agree with their proposals, we will have to take a hostile action.
Send a diplomat to Egypt, we may reach understanding there.

Signed Calipah of Egypt, Hakim bin Kamal Al-Abbasi

 

[Blade!]

"The treaty you proposed... it is beyond expectation, my lord. An alliance an trade treaty would be very benevicial to Peace and Tolerance, and ofcourse benevicial to the entire Islam. I would be glad... honored to sign such a treaty with you. Although I hope it will never become needed".

Former Sultan Abu'l-Abbas Ahmad II smiled and leaned on his cane.

"Of course... my son does both of us proud. Let no one ever say the Zayyanids stand for seeing injustice carried out. He is a source of great pride and joy to me as I finish my years on this mortal earth. Do you have children my friend?

Here, please sign the treaty here..."

"I will send it off immediately. Now that we have secured your peace, now that the Feyadeen will march for your security, I shall put forth two things; One, that if any time you feel you are ready to join the Zayyanid Caliphate as a integral state in the pious movment, you will be welcomed. Two, now that the Zayyanids have shown they are ready to march in strep with you, are you ready to march in step with the defense of Islam?

If the Mamalukes are unwilling to defend Islam by allowing you to march, the sending of preachers with blessings and supplies to curryy the morlae of the thousands who march to Islam's defense would be much appreciated."

 

[Cecasander]

The sultan nodded.

"By this alliance we are honor-bound to join your war against with Castile. We shall therefore join your jihad against these infidels that destroyed al-Andalus. However, the Hedjaz is not a very rich nation, and it's army is no match to most other nations. We have laid plans to double our forces by uniting the desert nomads under the Holy Cities. If the Abbasids allows our troops and merchants to pass through their lands, then we could effectively join your effords".

Muhammad took a nip of Cretean wine, as his throat became dry.

"I will send my Grand Vizier to Cairo to start peace talks when the Abbasid Calipah replied my latest letter, and demiliterized the desert borders".

 

[Blade!]

Former Sultan Abu'l-Abbas Ahmad II bowed his head with acknolwedgment and turned to leave.

"Of course... but it is understood that this may not be readily possible, in the meantime perhaps the Clerics of the holy Cities might travel to boost the spirits of the guardians of Dar-es-Islam.

Ah, but now this old man must return home and rest before the sun grows too high in the sky. Perhaps... perhaps if your men or clerics are able to travel, I too will go.. I have not seen my children in many a year, and who knows how many more years I shall have, Allah willing. Yasmine did write somthing most sounding like finally she would sttle with husband, so perhaps I am needed... but for now a nap before prayers.

Thank you my friend, Alekum Asalaam."

Making his leave, the former Sultan limped towards his divan which would take him home, where he would rest and pray until next called upon.

 

[unmerged(31994)]

*A letter arrives from the Abbasid Caliphate*

Unto the Sultan "Mohammed" of Hedjaz

I will not agree with anything so far, but perhaps by sending your Vizier we can reach a settlement.I still see the Holy city of Mecca and Medina rightfully part of the Abbasid Caliphate, and the nobles leauge, the Abbaci Knosul and other groups share the same sentiment.Perhaps we can solve with Dhelimma without much discord.But for now, we shall remain post-hostile.Half the regiment of 10000 men has left Tabuk to Amman in Jordan.
Let me remind you however, that we are not warmongers, but we only forward into uniting the old lands of the Abbasid Caliphate in the middle east. What better caretakers for the Holy lands than a Muslim power.Hedjaz from our intelligence, can barely muster the "Redawh" of the Kabah*That is true historically, in that Time Hedjaz use to get it from charity through Egypt*.
Still we shall continue seeing you as rebels, and we feel very uneasy with you brining the Zayyanida into our realm of influence in the area.As for the threat of war, it shall not go in easy with the Abbasid Caliphate.
Send your Vizier and we shall speak.

Signed Calipah of Cairo, Hakim bin Kamal Al-Abbaci

 

[TheArchduke]

A letter arrives from Tunis.

Unto Muhammad al-Mukhtar, Sultan of the Hedjaz and protector of the Holy Cities.

Tunisia is still very war-weary and hopes not to entertain any war for some time to come if possible. But rest assured that both the zayyanid caliphate and the hafsid caliphate both are aware of the situation and won't allow blood to be spilled in the two most sacred cities of Islam.

The tunisian representative in Egypt has been contacted and will arrive in Mekka shortly to discuss matters of trade, cultural ties and perhaps a guarantee for your nation, but as it seems for the moment, Egpyt is content with flexing its muscles and not more.

Your friend,
Sultan Hajji Amhed Hafsid of Tunis

 

[unmerged(7849)]

A letter arives from Persia,

"Onto Mohammed Al Muhktar, Sultan of the Hedjaz,

I bid you greetings as a fellow brother in Shi'a Islam. It is always good to know that a man of your beliefs is responsible for taking care of the Holy Lands. I do not know if you know of my nations recent uprising, I have untied the Shi'as in the Timurid Empire to rebirth the great Persian kingdoms of old. The Safavid dynasty now rules over our great lands.

My concentration now is ensuring the survival of the Shahdom, and its subsequent increase in wealth. And if there is one thing that I have, it is an excellent position on the trade routes. Perhaps the lands of Hedjaz would like to aquire some of the goods that flow through Ishfan on a daily basis. Or maybe you would like to sign just a simple agreement. Either way, I hope that you look at a trade route between us, be it land or see as a positive thing.

written by his own hand in Ishfan,
شاهنشاه Jonayd Safavid, King of Kings"​

 

[Voshkod]

A dhow arrives from the port of Basrah. A messenger delivers a note and a package to the Sultan of Mecca.

Sultan Muhammad Al-Muhktar, protector of the holy places of the Prophet, from Abu Sa'id Yesugai, Khan of the Timurids, greetings.

I will not see blood spilt over Mohammed's legacy. The Timurid Empire will protect Mecca and Medina from war, should it ever threaten to darken the holy lands.

I have sent you my father's blade of war. If you are in need of our protection, return it to Samarkand, and we shall ride to your aid.

It is my hope that I shall soon make the Hajj, and we may met in person.

Long life to you and your family, and may Allah favor you.

The sword is a massive curved scimitar. Along one side in Arabic, along the other in Mongol, are the words of the Prophet: "Those who disbelieve shall be the vanquished ones in war."