Taken with a grain of Sand -- An Algerian AAR

[20Five]

Hello everyone, after lurking through these very same message boards for quite some time I realized it was time... I would attempt an AAR of my own, and post it for all to see. I'm relatively new to EU4, and my play through is by no means going to be an attempt to min/max every decision and take over the world or anything.

Instead, my goal will be to play to the end of a fun and interesting attempt with the North African nation of Algeria (one I have not played before). I'll try to document this campaign in some levels of detail, trying to add some small amount of historical context and personal flair from time to time. I've found that I enjoy playing both CK2 and EU4 in this manner, as like anything else the more you put into the something, the more you end up getting out of it.

Don't hesitate to put tips and advice in this thread if you have any, likewise for things you'd like to see me do differently as part of my run. Again this is the first time I've ever posted anything like this, so who knows what we will end up with!

At any rate, on to the fun.. hope you enjoy reading this as I have enjoyed writing it.. Good luck!

 

[20Five]

Nov 11th, 1444.
On the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, in the North of Africa a new dawn was born. The Sultan Ahmad the second of the Zayyanid dynasty had reigned over Algeria since his early days of adulthood. Today when the sun rose he awoke from a sleep filled with visions. He dreamt of the future, embodied as small fennec, being hunted by a mighty eagle from across the great sea to the north. His only option was to hide in his sandy den, and in his dream he was trapped there for what felt like a thousand years.

He was a younger man during the times of the last civil war amongst his people, but old enough to remember what the strife had been like had been like.

His visions from the night before brought him the same feelings of trepidation he had felt in his younger days. It was clear to him that, although it might not happen in his lifetime, his people’s tenuous existence would be challenged again and again. As Sultan of Algiers, he must set in motion a chain of events to ensure his brothers survival and prosperity, whether they understood his actions or not.

The Berber people were nothing if not resourceful. Many foreigners could look at the mountains and sand which made up the vast majority of their territory and question how these people would ever amount to anything more than they already were. The desert had a way of bringing what was needed and in some cases more, Ahmad thought to himself. In the case of the port city of Oran, the case was far different. This city, Ahmad knew was vital to his people’s prosperity. Here was a meeting point, the desert brought many goods, and the sea carried ships who brought people, wealth and ideas.

This center of trade had been a key point in his people’s history. Deals had been struck here long before his time, between his people and the mighty merchant fleets from north of the inland sea. He knew this rich city would be a crown jewel in his plans going forward. Although the beliefs of those merchants were far different from his own he knew thought all people valued the power could be wielded by those who controlled gold equally.

The tradition of his people throughout the past was influenced by many others, often times either landing on the coast, or slowly making way out of the deserts to of the surrounding areas. It was not lost on Sultan Ahmad who was always observing his natural surroundings. It provided him with a relaxing calm to watch the wide variety of birds large and small that made their passage through his lands, and much like the wealthy trading ships, they both rode on the winds. His country must focus efforts to expand its trading horizons, and strengthen its grip on the trade it currently controlled. He commanded his finest captains to head their most nimble ships East to Tunis, that they may protect our trade interests there, currently being arranged by Sha’Ban Merah who was operating in Tunisia.

 

[DatTurk]

Should be interesting to see if you can fend off the Spaniards/Italians/Portugese early on. If you can make it though, Algeirs has a good chance of taking over all of North Africa.

 

[20Five]

Hello Turk, welcome to my thread.. I think you're definitely on point with this analysis, as my first few posts will reveal! Just waiting for moderators to sign off on my submission and the adventure will begin!

 

[20Five]

Fortunately, Sultan Ahmed could rely on others around him to help him in the matters of state which were most important to him. Rashid Merah had grown up alongside him, and was safe to be trusted to handle the most important matters of diplomacy. Over a dinner of freshly caught seafood, the Sultan shared with Rashid his instructions. Rashid was to sail west, to Morocco, with the intention of building an alliance with our immediate neighbors, who shared our beliefs, and in some cases in the past our struggles against heretics. The Sultan of Morocco was known to be largely inept at leading his country, but the alliance would ensure a relative safety buffer to the western deserts.

The role of diplomat was not one the Sultan relished himself nor was it one he excelled in. His strength was administering his people, and they were confident he could direct the nation astutely. Seeing ahead and understanding that skills in diplomacy both positive and more nefarious would be needed in the near future, he sent out word to his lands far and wide that a job position as his personal advisor was open. The pay would be fair, with a substantial signing bonus to the candidate best suited for carrying out affairs in foreign lands. By chance while out on one of the streets of the capital where he reigned, Ahmad noticed a man who seemed to be in the middle of an argument between a group of Berber and African men. The sun was high in the sky, and the temperature was hot in the dusty street, but Ahmad was quick to notice the only one who was keeping a cool composure. After the discussion ended with a sign of peace between the Berbers and the African men, Ahmad approached the man with his opportunity of a lifetime.

Abdallah Hacini was the son of a relatively successful merchant who operated a fleet of small ships around Tunis. Born in Constantine, and a few years younger than the Sultan, the two quickly hit it off. Ahmad could not believe the amount of experience Abdallah had, and just how far away traveling alongside his father had taken him. It seemed there was not a corner of the Mediterranean he had not spent some time in. After a few hours of discussion, Ahmad was certain, this was the perfect representative of Algiers, one who could make the best of any situation Ahmad called him to perform. Abdallah jumped at the opportunity to inherit a large sum of gold, and begin writing his own story, no longer following in his father’s shadow.

 

[20Five]

Within a couple of weeks, Rashid was back with good news from Morocco. The alliance was accepted, and in doing so Rashid mentioned we have likely improved our nations standing in the world.

Rashid brought with him more good news, and news of potentially great opportunity. Rashid explained to Ahmad that by marrying into Moroccan royalty, which was presently doable due to a variety of suitable females in the Sultans dynasty ripe for the picking, we could further add to our nation’s prestige. On top of that, Ahmad understood that Rashid was implying it was time to secure an Heir for our own country as well. Considering that Morocco and our immediate neighbors to the east Tunisia had recently signed a similar alliance, the time to act was now.

The offer was accepted, and Ahmad understood that this was just one small but key step to securing his nations future. It was quickly becoming obvious to him that at times things would be decided not only by the masses of his people, but also by single individuals along the way at key points. He would have to use his perspective to ensure that no seemingly meaningless chore or task of administration would go by the wayside only to haunt his grandchildren 100 years from now.
In the middle of December, representatives from Tunisia made his way into the capital. Abdallah Hacini accompanied the man, who was equipped with good tidings from a few old men. They represented a few of the key Tunisian Tribes responsible for administering the nation which operated a bit differently from Ahmad’s own.

The Iqta system of taxation was the way of the land in Tunisia, and through this system there would never be concerns over heirs of rulers, and they would profit more easily from the vassals they maintained a relationship with. Royal Marriages with Tunisia could be just as fruitful as the ones with our Moroccan allies, and Ahmad dispatched Rashid to bring this thought to execution.

There may be a time for the soldiers of Algiers to point their spears at our eastern neighbors, but Ahmad now was not that time. Although he recognized the power which Tunis wielded in the region from a wealth and trade standpoint, trying to fight for it now would be far too costly. Better to join our friends with a common belief, and to together point our spears at those heretics who may oppose us both.

Before long, just a handful of quick months, and the recently signed alliances would be quickly put to the test. News came that our western ally Morocco has been put under attack by the might nation Portugal from north of the strait of Gibraltar. Ahmad met with his closest advisors, and discussed what impact this would have on our mighty nation. Aside from our personal interests in protecting our national image to other parts of the world, Abdallah pointed out that Portuguese’s very strong allied force would be no worry, as they would unlikely join this conflict on their side. Combined, Morocco, Algiers and Tunisia had enough power at sea to keep the ports with their vital lifeline of trade open for business.
If each nation in the defensive alliance provided land troops to Morocco’s aide, we could certainly hold out defensively, and make the Portuguese leaders wary of declaring any further conflict south of the Mediterranean. This would not only strengthen our bond to our allies and religious brethren, but also diminish the power one of the strongest nations in the world.

 

[Derahan]

Hello Turk, welcome to my thread.. I think you're definitely on point with this analysis, as my first few posts will reveal! Just waiting for moderators to sign off on my submission and the adventure will begin!

What do you need their sign off for? Just roll the damned AAR! It seems good!

 

[20Five]

Haha thanks Derahan, I don't know I've posted a few more times into the thread but it says its awaiting mod signoff for some reason? I assumed because I'm a new member to the site and I linked images into it? Trust me I've got a lot of stuff to dump out on here, just waiting for it to catch up!

 

[Derahan]

Haha thanks Derahan, I don't know I've posted a few more times into the thread but it says its awaiting mod signoff for some reason? I assumed because I'm a new member to the site and I linked images into it? Trust me I've got a lot of stuff to dump out on here, just waiting for it to catch up!

Ah I see, well in that case I can understand why you have to wait

 

[20Five]

This first key war over Casablanca would be a pivotal one in the region, and Ahmad knew that this was an opportunity for him to showcase his talents as a military leader. He would lead his army himself, all the while thinking of his foreboding dream from back in November.

By May of 1445, the Algerian troops were making their way to the Moroccan province of Fez, where they would further orders from Ahmad. In the waters, the skirmishing had already begun, and fortunately one of Ahmad’s last actions before he left for battle was to put a proven admiral in charge of his main fleet.

Hashim Kelkal would take control of the fleet in the Gulf of Aimeria, and because its composition was mainly of large manpowered Galleys which were not well suited to fighting in the high seas, they would remain there to cut off Portuguese access into the Mediterranean. He knew they would likely be outgunned if some of the larger Portuguese fleets entered the waters of the Aimeria, but he knew this was an ideal standpoint to continue conflict and make like difficult for those who would otherwise block our ports. This battle would be decided ultimately on land, any leader with even basic military knowledge could recognize the importance of controlling access to ports for trade and troop transport.
Before long, ominous word was relayed through dispatches. Our young allies Morocco were now the target of a Crusade from the pope of the Catholic religion. This meant that any catholic nations which joined Portugal in its efforts against us were now going to be given additional benefits from the church. On the heed of that note, sure enough we see the cast of nations grow in support of Portugal. Ahmad, still en route to Fez was no suddenly questioning what he may have gotten his people into by signing that alliance. The Muslim defense was going to clearly be largely outnumbered. This war may be a lost cause, and the new goal for Algiers would be to minimize its own damages while still saving face in the Muslim world. Ahmad shuddered when he laid his head down at night, worried for the return of his nightmares.

Good news from the sea, the installment of the Admiral was showing early dividends, as the Royal Algerian fleet was able to capture a Castilian light Barque. This was the kind of battle the alliance needed to fight, smaller defensive skirmishes that favored the resilient nature of the Berber way.

 

[20Five]

From the far eastern coast of our borders, a large number of Aragonian ships settled into Cape Bon to blockade key access for our nation, as well as Tunisia. A concerted defensive effort would be necessary to keep them at Bay. Ahmad knew in the back of his mind that the Sicilian Isles would be crucial in the future, for strategic and trade purposes to control passage throughout the Mediterranean. New galleys would need to be commissioned, and once ready they would rendezvous with the existing fleet to provide a more formidable opponent for our adversaries. Unfortunately for our allies it would be 5 months before the new 3 ships were sea-worthy.

Late in August 1445, a key naval battle would unfold between Castilian ships and Algerian. Admiral Sancho de Zuninga would bring his large ships in from the open waters of the Atlantic to test his mettle. Outnumbed and outgunned, but fighting on favorable groups, Haishim was committed to getting the most out of his fleet for the sake of Algerian naval traditions.
The battle was lost, and a few ships captured. The only choice for Haishim was to return to Port at Oran. As he was aware, Ahmad the leader of Algeria had mentioned, this war may not be winnable, but we will not pay the steepest price of those losing it.

Tunisia was faring no better at this stage in naval combat, completely smothered by the strength of the offensive navy, access to its ports cut out right from under their feet.
At the point of Crusade against Morocco, Ahmad knew that this meant he could no longer leave his lands in defense of his Ally. By doubling back east, he would be able to arrive in time to lift the province of Annaba from siege. The heretic leaders pressed their naval advantage by easily sailing troops across the Mediterranean, in order to siege the coastal provinces that were providing much of Algerian income and manpower.

With Ahmad leading the charge, Algeria was able to win two important land battles on our own sand. The battle at Bejaia was a rout, but the conflict in Al-Djazair was costly for both sides. It was technically a win as the Naples armies retreated west, but the casualties in both armies were huge. And all the while, Annaba remained under siege by Castilian armies. Two new regiments were created in southern Algeria, but Ahmad started to wonder if that would be enough to mount a defense, and if so, at what cost!

 

[20Five]

July, 1446.

Our Muslim brothers with a message of internal affairs, it seems as though passage to the holy city has been impeded likely by roving bands of heretic warriors from the Northern countries. Ahmad knows that staying firm in our beliefs is one of the most important tools the Algerian people will have at their disposal. Our united religious solidarity will be something that defines our area of the world, and those who oppose our beliefs must think twice before engaging us.

Speaking on this topic, the wars with Portugal, Aragon, Castile and Naples rage on.. Muslim warriors from all three allied countries are coming together to defend one another’s property. This is the only way we can effectively hold out the contest against the overwhelming numbers of our attackers. If our warriors fight as strongly as they believe in our Sunni faith, there may yet be hope. Oran may have fallen without assistance from Moroccan allies, as the army of Ahmad was still recuperating after the bloody battle of Al-Djazair.

The fighting was not to be finished yet in Al-Djazair. Ahmad would soon lead his troops in another large battle against a Portuguese landing party. This time, having time to setup appropriate defense and preparations, the Portuguese were thwarted with far less casualties. Algerians fighting in their own territory have throughout history been a formidable force, and this battle only strengthened this notion.

Ahmad would continue the march along the coast of the great Mediterranean sea, going further to this time to come to the aide of the Tunisian allies. Tunis itself had been surrounded by Castilian troops, and it would be up to the combined forces of Morocco and Algiers to save the most valuable North African port. This time, the numbers were in the Muslims favor, and it was just a matter of time before the Castillians would be retreating to the transport barges they arrived on. This would be the last of the hostile invading forces in North Africa, and the allied defense would have an opportunity to recover losses in manpower, and strategize the remainder of the war.

 

[Derahan]

It is a good thing you managed to keep the catholics out of North Africa. Though as a bit of advice, you should chapterize your AAR to make it easier to navigate

 

[20Five]

On a diplomatic front, message came to Ahmad from his diplomatic advisor Abdallah, as he was heading back to the capital. Our Muslim brothers to the east of the Mediterranean were calling for an alliance, but this time Ahmad was wise to let the invitation wait. With the current state of affairs, this may end up resulting in one commitment too many.

Although the Ottoman Sultan would be angry when he heard our rejection of his offer, Abdallah promised that in time, this relationship would heal and the snub would be forgotten. The Ottoman Empire is very powerful in many regards, wealth, manpower, land and resources. Perhaps one day they would play a key role in the development of the world, but at the present time it would be too much for Algiers to manage. They had a strong ally in Crimea, but with truces soon expiring with many of the Eastern European orthodox powers, it was clear that an alliance with them would only result in the spilling of more Algerian blood.

In April of 1447, the Algerian naval effort took a turn for the worse. After being baited into a battle by a Castilian admiral, the main Algerian fleet was quickly surrounded by a massive combined naval force, and outnumbered 10-1. Hairsham lost each and every ship in his command, and was fortunate to be one of a surprising few who escaped captivity when surrendering. He seethed for vengeance, but Ahmad knew that after he was bested once in naval warfare, they may no longer be a job for him commanding the fleets of Algiers.

In early February 1448, one of the most critical land battles of the Portuguese assault on Casablanca ended up being a large battle between Algerian and Castilian forces high in the windswept mountain province of Fez. Ahmad had one last trick up his sleeve to play, it involved many maneuvers that he had read about in famous battles fought before his time. His goal was to fight using desert guerrilla hit and run tactics, luring the larger less eager Castilian army further way from reinforcement and into the Desert Mountains. Before long, the trap was set and the bait was taken, and in a reversal of fortunes they had suffered at sea, this time the Algerian warriors took victory.

The attacker’s morale evaporated quickly into the dusty, thin, hot air along with the hopes of a Castilian victory. The Castilian general Juan II had been outfoxed by the Algerian commander, and his troops were paying a stiff price of thirty casualties to every one Algerian. With so many casualties it started to look as though the invaders would not have the sufficient manpower to take and hold Casablanca for long enough, and if the defenders could continue to draw out conflict on land and the sea, a stalemate may be the only potential outcome. The Portuguese province of Cueta was still occupied by Moroccan troops, and now it would take another round of offensives by the heretics to turn the tide.
Ahmad, fueled by his previous premonitions knew that once the enemy has landed on your coast, and is circling you from above always threatening a next attack, there can be no hesitation when the opportunity for survival presents itself. After the victory at Fez, he harried Juan II’s army around the Atlantic coast of Africa until finally cornering him for one massive battle back at the province of Cueta. The battle was bloody and evenly fought, but in the end again Ahmad and his army prevailed. A massive blow was struck, so that now Morocco, Algiers and Tunisia defensively held all lands south of Gibraltar. On the other hand, no ship Muslim ship could find any refuge in the immediate waters of the Atlantic, or in the Mediterranean. Even Ahmad himself had no idea where this struggle would end up next, so all he could think to do was return home.

 

[20Five]

Late July, 1449

Ahmad returned home to the reports that angry mobs, no doubt spurned onto violence as they see and hear of the many battles being fought across the country side attempt to take matters into their own hand. He had an important choice to make, to follow up and add fuel to the fire of his Muslim subjects? Or would he be wise to temper their emotions, and using his administrative abilities try to find a more moderate solution to this situation. Perhaps he was just tired of all of the death he had been surrounded by in the last year, but he deemed it wise to rein the mobs in. Balancing the fervor of the Muslim believers with the temperance required to build a prosperous nation was something he knew would be a lifetime challenge.

With the powder keg of a war between Morocco and Portugal seemingly winding down, Ahmad looked to those closest to him for advice and perspective on what to do next. Many of his brethren in Oran, who still recalled the fierce naval battles of recent years mentioned how difficult reviving our trading system would be without an appropriate fleet of ships. In the interest of trade and safety, Ahmad agreed that rebuilding a powerful navy would be one of the primary focuses of the nation in the near future.

Looking further away, both into the future and in distance Ahmad set out some new objectives for his nation’s diplomats. Firstly, he wanted to begin developing a positive relationship to the great breadwinner of the Middle East, the Malmuks. The Malmuks had the potential to be one of the strongest nations in the world, so their position in close proximity to Algiers, as well their shared Sunni belief system could prove to be very important. They had vast wealth and lands, and supreme control over the vital Alexandria center of trade, which shipped many of its resources onward to Tunis.

There was one other relationship that Ahmad knew Algiers should pay some attention to. The Ottomans, who had previously requested an alliance and were denied. No reason to leave a stale taste in their mouths, as they were another potential great ally in the coming years, albeit one with slightly different religious favor. The state religion was indeed Sunni, but across their holdings some provinces still followed heretic orthodoxies. Let them worry about their own internal strife, in the meantime we can gain their favor by paying them kindness.

 

[20Five]

Days turned into month, and months slowly turned into years. The Portuguese war for Casablanca waged on, although in somewhat of a dormant state. They controlled the sea, we controlled the land, and this was unlikely to change.
Ahmad made a point to pay off a small some of gold he borrowed for the nation in times of desperation when the outcome of the war wasn’t quite as certain. The small amount of interest which had accrued was a small part of the matter, more important Ahmad wanted to be sure that it was well known the Algerians would always make good on a debt owed.

The public opinion of the war was slowly crumbling, on both sides of alliances. In the capital of Al-Djazair, once again the zealous Muslim groups were making their presence known. Ahmad once again had to make use of his shrewd administrative skills to quell what could quickly turn into a more dangerous rebellion. Knowledge was too valuable he knew, and because the mobs were turning onto institutions of learning he would allow the city guards to handle the book burners. He hoped that this was the last he would have to deal with as far as issues at home for some time.

Late December 1450
The Portuguese leaders would not rest on their laurels. They hoped there was a way to succeed diplomatically where the Portuguese generals had failed. They had ideas on how to break up the stalemate, by first attempting to sue for peace with Algiers. Ahmad heard of their offer, and knew it was not to be accepted. Certainly he was in no hurry to hand over eighteen ducats to the heretic power, and annulling our treaty with Morocco would only ruin the relationship we have fought so hard to build.

Meanwhile the strife at home continued on, and because Ahmad had made a commitment to details, he told his advisors to make him privy of all potentially harmful situations. This was one he did not expect, nor understand, but he would deal with it all the same. The local population’s sudden frenzy over old wives tales was a curious one, but another one he attributed to his peoples malaise over their current conflict.

Once again, he would make a sacrifice with the long term prospect in mind. By choosing to forgo the pragmatic approach and allowing his followers to find excitement and intrigue where there may be none in their day to day activities, he would provide them and himself with a helpful diversion to reality. Everyone loves a good story, and Ahmad was no different. He would sponsor some large parties, and sacrifice time he would otherwise spend administering his nation to attend them and encourage and engage his people.

Soon after this incident, and perhaps in part because of it, an advisor approached Ahmad as he ate. Ahmad could tell from the messenger’s posture that he did not bring good tidings, yet he was eager to see what this dispatch would bring. He spit out his food as he saw what was written, unable to choose words to yell he just yelled a loud war cry as he had last done in the fateful battle at Fez.
Insults from Tripoli who Algiers had a Royal wedded connection with.

After letting his temper cool, Ahmad summoned his diplomats together. What could this blatant disregard for respect by a Sunni brother mean?

It had been said that Sultan Yusuf Zayyanid had set out recently and declared the nation of Algeria as his Rival. He envied our power and wealth, and knowing that we have been embroiled in a lengthy campaign against the heretics to the north, figured this was a prime opportunity to goad us into conflict. Cooler heads needed to prevail, as the Sultan of Tripoli was well versed in the arts of warfare, and with our diminished hunger for violence due to the drawn out conflict alongside Morocco and Tunisia we were in no position to open up another war front.

Tripoli and Tunisia had also seen a deteriorated relationship, and Ahmad made it a point to post diplomats in communication with both nations to see where this plot would unfold next. If nothing else, this egregious affront by Tripoli would not go unpunished... but as the fennec must be patient in avoiding the eagle, so must Algeria bide time carefully. In the meantime Tripoli’s actions have been countered by Ahmad, as he formally announced to any who may listen that Tripoli will regret the day they denounced us. Rivals we will be.

 

[20Five]

Late April, 1451

The first of the allied aggressors who joined Portugal in its conquest of Casablanca has dropped out of the war. Castile made peace with Morocco, and in doing so, provided an added measure of satisfaction to Ahmad.

Later that summer, the heretic attackers would be forced to admit their blunder, and happily negotiate peace with our Allies. It was a costly war which saw great victories and horrible defeats on each side.

Ahmad knew what his next step was, the moment he heard the news from the herald. Finally with a peace brought to the coastal cities of Algiers, new opportunities would present themselves. He needed his most trusted diplomats once again at his table, to discuss their plans. It would be a month before Rashid Merah would be able to sail his way back from Constantinople, and that was if the winds favored his voyage. Time was of the essence, for Ahmad had a plan to hatch with his allies.

Alas, upon Rashids return, Ahmad’s plan was quickly put to rest. He had hoped for an opportunity to cash in on the trust he had paid for with his own blood and sweat, along with the lives of many of his countrymen, but it was not to be. It would take more than a decade of war on the same side to allow for discussions to begin of Morocco assuming a role as an Algerian vassal state. Morocco still was very plentiful and had designs of his own, so in the end Ahmad recognized his misjudgment.

Ahmad was finally able to rest easy again, and would spend the rest of the year with a new found dedication to administering his mighty nation. One of the first orders at hand was a commitment he had made to the Algerian royal navy, along with the many powerful merchants of Oran and Al-Djazair. A new fleet was needed, one which was more nimble and fierce then the one which is now rotting in bits and pieces at the bottom of the Gulf of Almeria. Newly built ships would be more modern and bestow an amount of respect across the high seas, restoring Algiers to its rightful place. A combination of Braques to patrol the coastal waters, and Galleys to prepare the next invading force would be built. Now all Ahmad to do was figure out where he would fund such an expensive project.

It wouldn’t happen overnight, but the plan was in place and it seemed prudent. Light ships would be the focus, their ability to protect the coastal waters against pirates and thieves were crucial in allowing Algiers safe business in the vast Tunis markets. Since the end of the Porto-War for Casablanca we no longer were the primary marketer in Tunis. Without the light ships protecting our routes, shipments would go missing or come into port light on cargo. With seven newly built light ships from the master boat workers of Algeria, patrolling key trade areas around the coasts would be simple. The added efficiency to our participation at the Tunisian markets would be a return we would see quickly.

Ahmad also knew that during this lull, his nation’s weariness for battle would subside. Warring can sometimes propel a nation forward out of its own doldrums, but in time any wise people grow exhausted of the toll war takes on its nation. Given time, his armies morale would return to its proper post.

Soon after the plans were set, more wheels continued to turn and get Algeria into motion. Ahmad’s administrative leadership was one of the hallmarks of the nation, and largely because of him, the people were ready to take their first real leap into a new direction. The decision about which one to take, and why would not be easy. Ahmad could clearly see that there were distinct trains of thought coming into light around the world.

Some groups of ideas centered around economic research and practice, strengthening a nations ability to market its own goods as well as reach further out into the world to find new goods and markets. Others focused on diplomacy and expansion, providing a means to confer with larger audiences of allies and enemies, or set out to found new colonies and stake claim to mysterious wilderness. Still more ideas focused on developing a strong military tradition, researching new weapons and tactics to both attack and defend enemies more efficiently.

 

[20Five]

Chapter 2: Post Portuguese War for Casablanca

November 1453
Ahmad again awoke from a slumber, and again he would have a vision. He recalled his dream from years ago in which the mighty eagle circled his fennec form from above. This dream was similar to Ahmad but this time it played out a bit differently. This time, Ahmad the fennec opted not to bury himself in his den, but instead lead the eagle further and further away from the cool coastal air. In his dream he realized that the mighty eagle way considering hunting another target, and the further into the desert he ranged, the less interested the eagle would be in pursuing him.

The premonition came to him at once, while meeting with his advisor Abdallah Hacini. Abdallah was explaining an interesting tale about a group of Muslim men who had for the previous few weeks spending lots of lots of money at the mottled markets in the streets of Oran. These men believed they fervently that they should spread the Sunni faith to any stretch of land it had not touched before. They were planning to head south into the blistering sands of the Sahara with as many supplies as they could muster along with their beliefs in tow.

Ahmad knew, he had to provide these brave Muslim brothers as many benefits as he could to assist in their success. Like the cagey fennec, Algeria was best served by finding new lands away from the heretic Catholic powers to the north. To the south they would find new people to teach, new lands to settle, and new goods to trade.

One the decision had been made, with the full backing of the Algerian government the wheels quickly turned into motion. A group would head south to a place referred to commonly as Tuat. They would be accompanied by the 1st Algerian army who Ahmad would personally lead to ensure their safe passage. Many of the traders who ended up in the markets of Al-Djazair had passed through this open desert terrain, and had encountered many different bands of savages. The trip wouldn’t take much time, but would certainly test those who were willing to endure it. Ahmad could only hope that in time Tuat could become a safe haven for Sunni Muslims, and that this expansion may only drive his peoples thirst for more.

It wouldn’t be easy, but in time the resourceful Algerians would find a foothold in this part of the desert and establish a colony. They were lead by Jamal Benzine, who Ahmad had met personally and could attest to his dedication of growth. Jamal had a way of making others feel safe where they might otherwise be wary, and in doing so proved to be invaluable as leader of the Algerian colonial power. Within a few weeks, Ahmad declared that he and the 1st Algerian army had cleared the desert of any otherwise hostile tribes, and turned back north to the capital.

Ahmad returned to the capital with many tasks awaiting his attention. His most favored men of learning bent his ear first, with a proposition to lure in heretic researchers from the North. These men were quickly opening up entire new trains of thought, and in doing so had proved to be too different from those who were sponsoring them. With a small bit of coin, perhaps they could bring new thoughts and ideas to Algeria, which Ahmad determined was a worthy risk to take.

Ahmad was content for one of the first times in many years. He had been able to administer his country effectively by improving their strength in trade in the east to Tunisia. His policy goal of refitting an appropriate national navy from years ago was slowly becoming more of a reality. The number of Algerian Braques topped any of his Muslim neighbors and by doing so provided his merchants the most safety and freedom to carry on in business. But the best news was still to come..

 

[MondoPotato]

So many updates! You did well to keep the Europeans out through their seemingly constant invasions. And I'm wondering whether ignoring the Ottoman request for an alliance was a really good move, or one that might hurt you on the future... It sure would be nice having their armies help out next time Portugal or Castille come knocking!

 

[20Five]

Thanks Mondo! Yeah it's a good point.. I guess im trying to balance their potential help for that reason with the potential hits I may take if they drag me into other wars. They've asked a few times for an alliance so maybe there is still a chance yet!