The Books of the Castellans of Kalisz (Poland-Lithuania)

[Pan Zagloba]

THE BOOK OF ADAM KOLLATAJ (1556 - 1578)

March 30th, 1556

I was appointed Castellan of Kalisz today. My ambition in this job is to bring the Commonwealth peace with England. We have captured many of her overseas possessions, but without landing on the English mainland, we will be unable to force peace with her. The situation is fairly serious - our people are becoming tired of constant war preparations, and there is a risk that they may revolt.

June 22nd, 1556

Today it was announced at court that Spain (with Hesse, Parma, the Mameluks and Genoa) had declared war on France, Savoie, Cologne, Kleves, Portugal and the Papal States.

July 29th, 1556

The French are now fighting two wars - Denmark and Sweden declared war on them. England still refuse our offers of white peace.

August 24th, 1556

The Saxon envoy at court came to see me today, and said that his Elector had declared war on the French alliance. Would we join them? I thought for a moment, and decided that since we'd fought so long for this alliance, we should ensure its continuation. Our declaration of war was delivered to the beleaguered French ambassador this afternoon. An instant offer of a white peace was refused.

September 2nd, 1556

I wonder what France has done wrong? Now Brandenburg (alone) has declared war on them.

September 24th, 1556

With another declaration of war, the French alliance is now fighting:
Spain, Hess, Parma, the Mamelukes, Genoa, Denmark, Sweden, Saxony, Pommerania, the Commonwealth, Brandenburg, Hansa, the Teutonic Order and Prussia.

April 3rd, 1557

Our troops are ready for the invasion of England. 14,000 men and 40 cannon are boarded on ship and head for the undefended capital.

July 19th, 1557

The first peace treaty of this great war has been signed, with Spain annexing Kleves. Our troops have arrived in England and laid siege to London. England still refuse a white peace, as do France.

July 21st, 1557

Last week, an army of 5,000 soldiers from the Papal states made its way through Prussia and laid siege to Lithuania. One has to admire their courage, and their willingness to travel. Our army in Belarus drove them off into Prussia again, where, we have just heard, General Albrecht annihilated them.

July 25th, 1557

France has made peace with Brandenburg, ceding control over Hannover, and giving them 250 ducats to sweeten the pot.

November 1st, 1557

The Government of Cologne has been overthrown. Our first revolt broke out today, in Zacatecas. We crushed it without trouble.

November 21st, 1557

Venice has gained Tyrol from Austria in a peace treaty.

January 1st, 1558

Over Christmas, while our troops were celebrating, the pagan hordes of the former Aztec lands were plotting. During the festival, three provinces broke out in open revolt, and annihilated the 40,000 men we had there. The situation is serious - we now only have two troop-raising provinces there, and in both men are working full-time to raise an army big enough to drive the rebels from our walls.

March 1st, 1558

It was announced today that we have lost control of Jamaica to rebel forces. Our fleet in harbour was driven out by the rebel forces, and had no other place to dock (our coastal provinces on the mainland are in rebel hands as well). Our men were forced to scuttle their ships and make it to land as best they could.

England and France are still refusing our peace offers, though London's walls are weakening.

June 6th, 1558

The penny must have dropped in the English court (perhaps one of them tried to leave London). An English force marched on our London siege force the other day, and drove us off with much loss of life to Lincoln.

August 17th, 1558

Reinforcements have been sent to the siege at Lincoln.

February 24th, 1559

Russia, England and Ethiopia have declared war on the Horde.

March 21st, 1559

Our forces in Lincoln have been routed by the English, and forced to flee in several directions. More reinforcements are being sent, but I am worried about the outcome of this war.

May 2nd, 1559

Kleves declared its independence from Spain yesterday. Spain promised that it would not see out the year in freedom.

August 15th, 1559

Another Papal State army in the Commonwealth! This time, 15,000 men land in Bessarabia, but are driven off.

November 6th, 1559

Tver has risen in revolt, protesting at the long-running war. Our forces to quell the revolt in America have beaten back one army, but are having less success in recapturing Zacatecas.

December 12th, 1559

Another military disaster - another army in America annihilated. This war is going very badly for us. We have no hope of any gains, but no way of gaining peace. The King has become stubborn, and is refusing to pay the English any money for peace, since we hold almost all their foreign colonies. However, they still refuse our white peace offers, as do the French.

December 21st, 1559

You'd think the French would be keen to get rid of us, as this war doesn't seem to be going well for them. Now they have given Friesen and 250 ducats to Hansa for peace.

March 23rd, 1560

Another setback for France, as they cede Pfalz to Hesse for another peace treaty.

March 26th, 1560

Russia have recaptured Kazan, and taken Vorones into the bargain, cementing their eastern power base.

May 7th, 1560

In an odd historical moment the other day, England received Calais from France in return for peace, while still being at war with the other members of the alliance.

July 1st, 1560

Although they didn't make their self-imposed deadline, the Spanish have now reannexed Kleves.

August 1st, 1560

Spain have signed a peace treaty with France (why can't I manage that?) taking Zeeland from them.

January 16th, 1561

It turns out that England didn't have much time to enjoy their possession of Calais - they have ceded it to Savoie in a peace treaty. Meanwhile our English army has failed dismally, and is being evacuated across the Channel to France. I am working on the King, to try and get him to pay money to England for peace. Revolts are breaking out in the Commonwealth, and before long we will not have the resources to put them down.

April 4th, 1561

Reports reach us of another army annihilated in America. The 20,000 men of the Zacatecas garrison were wiped out by a rebel army of 200,000. The province is now under siege.

February 15th, 1562

The King is at last convinced of the case for paying England 250 ducats for peace. The treaty will be signed tomorrow, and then we just have to handle France.

February 6th, 1563

Very bad news. The rebels in Zacatecas captured the city, and declared the Aztec empire reformed. Now we need to declare war on them formally in order to recapture our possessions there. The King, distraught, realises that this fruitless war has gone on long enough, and orders me to come to terms with the French.

March 13th, 1563

Peace at last after twelve years of constant, futile war. The French took 250 ducats for peace, and we now only need to deal with the Aztecs, and our ten other rebellious provinces.

July 23rd, 1563

Zacatecas has been restored to the Commonwealth after a successful campaign by a rag-tag army of recruits. Each of them has been granted extensive lands in our newest colony, Monterey. Only Jamaica holds out in rebellion against us - protected by their island status for now.

7th September, 1565

Very bad news from the eastern frontier, as the Turks join the Russian alliance. If those two attack us, we really are finished. We need to build a strong western coalition, but our most powerful neighbours are Catholic. The King and I have discussed whether we should declare ourselves a Catholic nation again, but for the moment we have decided not to. Our reasons are that we are close to vassalising Pommerania, which would be impossible if we were Catholic, and that the Treaty of Tordesillas would enable the Spanish to take all our former Aztec lands. We will wait for a declaration from the Pope that the Treaty is void before we make any moves, and in the mean time we will try to annex Pommerania diplomatically.

January 26th, 1566

France took Holland from Sweden to end the last outstanding war of their "deluge".

November 7th, 1566

The Turkish-Russian alliance has declared war on the Golden Horde. Although we are glad that they are distracted, this war will certainly grow their power base, and I fear for the future of our eastern lands.

May 26th, 1567

France is at war again, this time with Brandenburg and Bohemia.

January 10th, 1568

The inevitable has come to pass, and Russia and Turkey have partitioned the Horde's land between them. To extend their territory, they have declared war on Astrakhan. I see hard times ahead.

 

[hjarg]

200 000 rebels??? Congratulations, you have just won award for biggest rebel army ever spotted! 200 000????

Hope you will survive and prosper.. though Russia and Turkey seem quite formidable opponents...

 

[Grundius]

Nice AAR!

I've just read the first part and because of lack of time I haven't read the rest, but I will be back soon and read them anyway and - as shown from the screenshots - the rest of the story is going to be interesting as well

Keep it up!

 

[Pan Zagloba]

Originally posted by hjarg
200 000 rebels??? Congratulations, you have just won award for biggest rebel army ever spotted! 200 000????

Hope you will survive and prosper.. though Russia and Turkey seem quite formidable opponents...

The 200,000 rebel army was made up of the remnants from seven rebellions in Zacatecas. After two vast rebellions in two months, and before the attrition got to them, the numbers were 140,000 cavalry and 60,000 infantry, plus change.

And I'm very worried about Russia and Turkey.

Zagloba

 

[nalivayko]

Picture that.
Polish hussars battles Aztec cavalry in the deserts of Mexico, desperately trying to cover retreating Polish infantry. Surreal.

Great aar. I am glad my request for military conquests has been heard. Thanks a lot.

 

[Pan Zagloba]

5th July, 1569

Russia have taken Uralsk from Astrakhan in a peace treaty.

3rd December, 1569

It has been a long wait, but I am now starting to think that our diplomatic corps are worth the money we waste on bribes and lavish presents. Our alliance was strengthened today by the inclusion of Prussia - quite an achievement considering how much they loathed us only a few decades ago. Now, however, they have realised that a strong alliance along the Baltic is their best protection - particularly since they are surrounded by allied territory anyhow. The Prussian armies are formidable, and will be much help in any Eastern war - if they can be persuaded to join it.

7th December, 1570

My head this morning is somewhat the worse for wear. The news came in yesterday that the English had gone to war with the French. Nothing surprising in that, perhaps. However, when the various envoys came in to make their report, I noticed that the Turkish ambassador (allied to England and Russia) was not present. Sure enough, a war between two Christian nations has caused the Turk to drop out of the Russian alliance, much to our relief. The party in the diplomatic offices went on until the early hours of the morning. The line-up for the present war is therefore England (Russia, Scotland) v. France (Savoie, Cologne, Portugal).

24th March, 1572

I have just returned from a tour of the German states, to promote our interests there. Most of them are not fond of us, but I was able to send royal brides off to Saxony and Hessen. While I was there, I was shown a map of the former Spanish Low Countries. They are currently a remarkable hotchpotch, with every province of the former Spanish possessions in different hands.

7th October, 1572

It may have been inevitable, but it is still a shock - the Austrian empire have annexed Hungary, giving them an uncomfortably long border with the Commonwealth.

15th March, 1573

Morocco has declared war on Portugal, we were told today, presumably seeking the return of Tangiers.

3rd September, 1575

The Spanish envoy came to see me this morning. Since the Commonwealth converted to Protestant, our relations with the Spanish have been strained, but this envoy is a pleasant fellow, and I was able to persuade him to have a drink with me. He was telling me that their Most Catholic Majesties were in a spot of bother at the moment. They have been at war with the Pope for some years (which is troubling their consciences), and many of their colonies are in open revolt. Don Jose thinks that Spain will be forced to cede Naples and Apulia to the Pope in order to get time to rebuild.

6th January, 1577

Our alliance with Pommerania, Prussia and Saxony is due to expire soon, but the Commonwealth's diplomatic strength is weak. I have consulted the King, and he agrees that the best way to proceed is to declare war on the remnants of the Teutonic Order, thereby extending the alliance and recapturing some land which properly belongs to the Commonwealth.

3rd May, 1577

Perhaps I am being sentimental, but I advised the King to wait until Novgorod Day to declare war on the Teutons. They are reduced to two provinces - Livonia and Memel - and only have 12,000 men in Livonia. The King himself has taken command of our main attack force, which will attack Livonia. A smaller force waits in Belarus to strike at Memel. This morning, I delivered our declaration of war to the Teuton envoy. I also pointed out that, since our aim was complete annexation (to end the isolation of Estonia), he might as well start packing up at the embassy.

7th June, 1577

The King decided to hold back his forces, and wait to see what the Teuton disposition of force is. That was certainly the right decision, as 40,000 Teutons appeared out of Memel, which was not what we were expecting. Our Pommeranian and Prussian allies are currently dealing with them in Kurland, while the King moves off towards Livonia.

13th July, 1577

The King's army has stormed Livonia, and our smaller army under Pan Wisniowiecki crept through Prussia - avoiding the Teuton army besieging Kurland - to take on Memel. Reports from Memel indicate that its surrender is imminent.

1st August, 1577

The Teutonic Order is no more. The King and I decided against the same sort of ceremony as my predecessor arranged for the cession of Novgorod. I am now busy making the arrangements for the abolition of the Order. The Grand Master has been paid off with a handsome estate in Trinidad, and has written a letter ceding the entire territory and Treasury of the Teutonic Order to the Commonwealth. It is currently being copied before being distributed to our envoys overseas. His followers have all taken the oath of loyalty, and will now fight under the white eagle. Our campaign was a resounding success. The King was kind enough to mention that big things were ahead for me.

 

[Viking]

I personally liked the "Triangular War" Poland vs France vs England vs Poland. Nice to see propper confusion and disorder.

 

[Pan Zagloba]

THE BOOK OF JAN RYKALSKI (1578 - 1608)

1st January, 1578

Now my predecessor has departed for pastures new as Regent of America, it is my turn to take up this book, which was started by my great-grandfather. I hope that I will be able to erase the stain of my grandfather Ryszard's insanity. I am itching for more war, following my experiences in the front line against the Teutons, but the King has insisted that this must be a time of rebuilding, and of mending relations with our neighbouring countries. I can't say that appeals very much, but if I must, I must.

7th September, 1578

Our envoy in Lisbon writes to say that Portugal has ceded the province of Parnaiba to England for peace.

3rd May, 1581

Dull, dull, dull. Peace is not my profession, but it seems to be all we have. I have arraned to go and observe the war that Aden are fighting against the Omanis and the Turks. Ostensibly, this is to scout out Turkish military tactics, but in practice its to get at least some vicarious pleasure from a proper battle rather than diplomatic wrangling.

7th April, 1585

"The Castellan of Kalisz to his noble brother Marek Kapuczynski, Leaseholder of Voronesz, greetings! Thanks for your letter, which found me here in Venice a few days ago. I am giving advice to the Venetian army on fighting the Austrian army. The Austrians have the upper hand at the moment, but they have not managed to capture any territory. Thank you for your news - I must say Smolensk was not the first province I'd have thought would turn Protestant of its own free will. It's another argument against reconverting to Catholicism I suppose. Ask Gerwazy to take down the paintings in the lower antechamber - I have had a set of very good paintings commissioned here. Please also paste this in the book. Jan Rykalski."

18th October, 1590

"The Castellan of Kalisz to his noble brother Marek Kapuczynski, Leaseholder of Voronesz, greetings! I am currently in Rome, where there are rumours of a major new announcement from the Lateran Palace. If the King asks, I am in constant conference with the Pope, explaining to him the virtues of our policy of tolerance. I was unable to prevent Venice losing the war, but she did at least only need to pay 151 ducats in indemnities, and lost no territory. Please paste in the book. Jan Rykalski.

Postscriptum: the Pope announced today that the Treaty of Tordesillas was null and void, and that the Protestant religion was to be tolerated (if not embraced) as a valid way of life. Please make sure the King thinks I was instrumental in achieving this. Jan."

6th April, 1592

Although I have been enjoying my travels - and picking up some useful hints on military tactics - there is a price to pay for having stayed away so long. I came home yesterday to find that without my restraining influence, a ridiculous set of policies have damaged our stability, and knocked back our researches on trade and infrastructure just when a breakthrough looked imminent. I shall have to spend some time here sorting out the mess.

14th April, 1592

The Spanish envoy says that they have declared war against the Inca Empire.

29th August, 1594

My feet are itching again, as Algeria (the Hedjaz, Aden) declared war on Tunisia (Mamelukes, Oman, Turkey). However, the King has asked me to oversee negotiations towards vassalising Pommerania, so I have to stay here.

25th December, 1594

At a splendid ceremony in the Royal Castle, the Duke of Pommerania paid homage to the King, and Pommerania became our vassal. However, I am still not allowed to go travelling again, as the King now wants us to vassalise Prussia.

6th June, 1595

Persia have announced that they will not permit any more Commonwealth traders to enter their trading centre at Isfahan.

10th June, 1595

The Persians are being punished for their arrogance, it seems. The Ethiopians have declared war on them, Nubia, Georgia and the Uzbeks.

13th September, 1595

Discussions are proceeding slowly with Prussia. From reports coming out of Italy, it seems that His Holiness's commitment to tolerance does not extend to the political sphere. Today he (along with the Duke of Milan) declared war on Tuscany.

28th September, 1595

Still little progress with Prussia. The French have ceded Dominica and 250 ducats to England.

13th January, 1596

Russia is expanding its empire again, declaring war (with England, Scotland, Ethiopia, Venice and Denmark) on Astrakhan and Sibir.

23rd June, 1596

Ethiopia wrested control of Bathal, and 94 ducats, from Nubia.

17th September, 1596

If the Mamelukes weren't allied with the Turks, we'd be happy that they had taken Jordan and Arabia from the Hedjaz.

30 November, 1596

Two envoys arrived at court today. The Turk has taken Tabuk from the Hedjaz, while Milan has taken Luca from Tuscany.

3rd March, 1597

Our King died today, after falling from his horse. Once more, we are faced with a long wait until his successor can be appointed. However, for a change the regency are fairly well-respected men of letters, who should guide the country well during the interregnum.

14th March, 1597

The messy war in the near East has ended at last with Aden ceding Hadramut to Turkey. Astrakhan has lost its independence, and has been absorbed into Russia.

20th May, 1597

This is truly the autumn of nations, as the ancient republic of Tuscany falls beneath the Papal yoke. The Pope has almost reunified Italy under his control.

27th June, 1597

Nubia have declared war on Ethiopia, presumably to recover their lost lands.

19th March, 1598

Another day of celebration in Warsaw, as Russia (England, Scotland, Ethiopia, Venice, Denmark) declares war on Turkey (Oman, Mamelukes). Long may they wear themselves out on each other!

7th January, 1599

The Turks are doing badly in the war with Russia. The main part of their empire is cut off from their Crimean holdings by our territory in Bessarabia. This means that their military power is strictly limited. The King and I discussed this problem the other day, and have decided that the best solution from the Commonwealth's point of view is to go to war in aid of the Turks. There will be consequences for our internal stability, and we will not be popular in Europe for doing so, but better that than Russian control over the Crimea.

10th August, 1599

We declared war on Russia today, to the frank astonishment of the Russian envoy in Warsaw. We have sent a large army to deal with the main Russian army in the north - 32,000 men in Pskov. Heaven only knows what will happen in this war. We have good armies, but we suspect that the Russians have strength in depth.

 

[hjarg]

Grrrrr... i hate when you do that... mention that you declare war on Russia and then stop. Just like commercial breaks come when the movie is getting really intresting. Btw, you partly double-posted as well.

You coudn't hold your hands off of Teutonic Order as well Not a nice thing to do... Oh, well, that's life, i guess.. and they survived a few years more then they did historically.

How far have you advanced in techology btw? And how much monopolies, COTs etc do you have? How much gold do you recive? And when do we get next screenshots?

Hope you will defeat these Russians...

 

[Pan Zagloba]

Hjarg - next bit of the AAR up in a second (I had to go and meet a man for lunch). As for your questions: the following COTs now lie within the territory of the Commonwealth: Danzig, Novgorod, and Zacatecas. Kurland lies within the territory of our vassal, Pommerania. I have a steady monopoly in Zacatecas, and on-off monopolies in Danzig and Novgorod. I also had a steady monopoly in Isfahan, until the Persians embargoed me. I usually have about 4 or 5 traders in Venice. I make about 450D/year in the census tax.

On tech, I am the most advanced in land tech, but the most backward in naval. By 1586, I had one naval manfactory (in Belarus) trying to make up the backlog. My trade and infrastructure techs are both 4 - they would have been higher if it hadn't been for two "poor policy" random events when I was just about to reach the next level.

The Teutonic Order were just in harm's way when I had forgotten to save up enough diplomats to renew my alliance. Harsh, but that's life I suppose. The Russian war was more for strategic reasons - to prevent the Russians from overrunning the Turks, and preserving the balance of power to my east. Not that the Turks will be grateful, of course.

As for screenshots, I'll need to beg your indulgence for a couple of days as (despite EU) I have a fairly packed social diary for the next week or so. However, on 7 May my wife is off to stay with her aunt in Spain for a couple of weeks, so there'll be ample opportunity for gaming then.

Zagloba

 

[hjarg]

Commercial break, lunch break, what's the difference (*grumbles unhappily*). Ok, nevermind.

Naval equipment manufactory in Belarus... hope you don't plan to build your navy there Actually, i belive that one shipyard will prove useful... after all Poland seems to want to be a colonial power...

And about screenshots.. we will wait (like we have another option ), but don't forget them!

 

[Pan Zagloba]

11th November, 1599

I am on the front line again at last. Or, at least, near the front line. I'm not as young as I was, so I have been given the command of a small detachment to the rear of the main siege army. My job is to mop up any resistance from the Russians, if they break through our front line. Strategically, our first task is to capture Ingermanland. This is one of our targets in this campaign, as it would deny Russia access to a port - at least until she conquers the Crimea. We have a sizeable army ready for the siege (14,000 infantry, a token cavalry group of 2,000 and 120 guns). Another army (12,000/10,000/50) to the south moves on Pskow, where 32,000 Russians are waiting. News has come in from Warsaw that France (Cologne, Portugal, Savoie) has declared war on Spain (the Knights, Genoa, Austria, Hesse).

4th January, 1600

These northern winters are harsh, but the Russians are suffering most from it. Their 32,000 men marched on Novgorod, leaving us to our own devices in Pskov and Ingermanland. Our forces quickly stormed Ingermanland's minimal fortifications, and then withdrew into friendly territory to pass the winter. Indeed, I am writing this in front of a roaring fire at a friend's palace near Wilno. The remains of a chicken lie in front of me, and a carafe of Jamaican rum (quite the fashion now our new refinery is on stream) sits at my side. I'd rather be here than in Novgorod.

5th April, 1600

The spring thaws have come, and the main army that wintered in Estonia has moved on Moscow. The field army that was to attack Pskov has taken on the remaining Russians laying siege to Novgorod. From all accounts, the winter there was so harsh that the Russians soldiers seemed to welcome death. The fortress in Novgorod stood the assault well, and the citizens of the town have enough food and drink to give our liberating army a good banquet before they move off to Pskov. Reports have come in from the south that a new army, raised before New Year, is trained up and marching on Voronesz.

19th May, 1600

Our forces stormed Pskov's fortress at the first attempt. However, the Russians who were beaten away from the walls of Novgorod are now besieging Ingermanland. The Pskov veterans are to be sent up there once they have rested.

27th May, 1600

Good news from the southern front. We have laid siege to Voronesz, and the Russians have disengaged their armies from the Turk and are coming towards us. Their armies are small, and we should be able to deal with them easily enough, but it gives the Turks time to take territory from Russia.

5th June, 1600

Boris Godunov himself has appeared at the head of a 30,000-man force outside the walls of Novgorod. The levy has been summoned in Lithuania and Belarus. Meanwhile, the Turks are besieging the Russian garrison in Donetsk (which is Turkish territory).

7th June, 1600

Moscow has fallen again! The walls were breached yesterday morning, and by the evening our troops were in complete control of the city and its surroundings. Now we wait to see what we can gain in a peace treaty. Our targets are Pskov and Ingermanland. Pskov because it is a rich province and simplifies the line of our border with Russia; Ingermanland to cut the Russian bear off from the sea. If we can gain some money for our allies, so much the better. 20,000 Pommeranians have moved up from Kurland to lay siege in Onega, and a similar number of Prussians are advancing on Vladimir.

19th September, 1600

Before the harsh effects of winter could set in, Novgorod has fallen to Boris Godunov. He has moved on to Pskov, but the Moscow veterans will meet him there and do battle. My force has been positioned in Wielikia to respond if he tries to move south. The Turks have recaptured Donetsk and have moved to Bogutjar. Still no sign of any of Russia's allies - even the Danes, who share a land border.

31st October, 1600

The winter is upon us, but all our troops are safely within the Commonwealth's borders, sitting it out. Yesterday, we won a famous victory over Godunov outside Pskov. He lost over 13,000 men to our 2,000, and only has a small infantry detachment guarding 90 guns.

19th November, 1600

Action! Action! Godunov is heading our way, and I lead my men away from their comfortable fires to meet him.

25th November, 1600

We meet Godunov's army outside a village called Soplicowo. It's a pathetic sight - our proud horsemen and infantry (11,000 infantry and 10,000 cavalry), with me in shining battle armour, against just over 900 bedraggled Russians and a king who looks like a beggar. We charge at once into the attack, and the husaria cuts down Godunov's infantry support. He himself, however, manages to escape into the forests with a few men and the remainder of his artillery. We pursue him towards Belarus.

12th December, 1600

I would not like to be in Godunov's shoes right now. Because of our greater mobility, we reached Belarus before him, and have spent the last couple of weeks warming up with the aid of rum and vodka, here in Minsk. News came in today that he had been sighted near the city, so I have put my men on alert to move out in the morning. But there's time for a quick drink first.

13th December, 1600

The battle this morning was brief. Godunov had a small personal bodyguard of 12 men, and trailed fifty artillery pieces around. To give the Russians credit, they put up a brave fight, but Godunov could see that it was pointless. Before the husaria began their charge, he ordered his men to surrender. He is now relaxing in Minsk, as our prisoner. We have put him in the same cell that his predecessor Vassily III stayed in during the Novgorod war. The men call it the Tsar's Suite.

2nd April, 1601

Our army in the north, rested and reinforced over the winter, have moved out into battle again. We're not interested in capturing any more territory, just in regaining Novgorod.

8th June, 1601

The Russian garrison in Novgorod has been destroyed, and the city is in our possession again. I confer with the King, and send a messenger off to Minsk with our demands for the imprisoned Tsar. It will be a shame, in a way, to end the war, but I am feeling my age, and I have now lived a glorious hour, even if the rest of my days are passed in peace. The Turks have captured Bogutjar and are working on Kujbyschew. I feel that we have done what we could for them.

10th June, 1601

The Tsar in Minsk has agreed to our demands - 500 ducats, plus the cession of Ingermanland and Pskov to the Commonwealth in perpetuity. The deed is done, and we release him to trail back across the country towards his kingdom. Our border with Russia is considerably more defensible without the irritant of Pskov on the west side of Novgorod.

13th August, 1601

I am back in Warsaw again, garlanded with honours. The court was delighted to hear of more humiliation for the Russian Tsar, as he ceded Bogutjar to Turkey in a treaty last week.

2nd September, 1601

During my absence in the war, more foolish policies have been pursued by the milksops I left in charge. Stability and investments have both suffered while I have been away.

5th August, 1602

The Russians must now understand the futility of trying to gain territory in the west, for they have declared war (alone) against Sibir.

4th October, 1604

The armies gathered for the Russian war are getting restless doing nothing - over 13,000 deserted last month, and headed back to their farms. Well, we probably don't need them just now. The King has asked me to supervise diplomatic discussions with both Prussia and our vassal Pommerania.

8th October, 1604

News has just arrived that Russia have annexed Sibir. Meanwhile, Prussia have agreed eagerly to become our vassals. These are good days for the Commonwealth.

26th March, 1605

Sitting on a podium outside Szczeczin Castle, the King receives the submission of the Duke of Pommerania. In long negotiations, we have agreed that Pommerania should take its place formally as part of the Commonwealth. Under the terms of the new Union of Slupsk, Pommerania will have the right to send members to the Seym, and its nobility will have all the rights and privileges of their brothers in the Commonwealth. It is a happy day. Perhaps I have now restored my family's honour in this office. I am old, and the time must come soon for my retirement.

13th February, 1606

The Tsar still thinks that he can make conquests in the west. He (with Scotland, England, Venice and Denmark) has declared war on Sweden (Brandenburg and the Hansa). Although not as foolish a move as declaring war on us, we respect the military power of the Swedes, and wait with interest to see what happens.

10th March, 1606

France has taken Kleves from Spain in a peace treaty. I have asked the King for permission to retire to my family's estate in Sandomierz, but he has refused.

7th June, 1606

Denmark, in punishment for allying with the Tsar, has ceded control of Jylland to Brandenburg.

25th August, 1607

The Russians have had some successes against the Swedes, and have capped their campaign by receiving Karelia and Savolaks from them. Karelia is a poor sort of place, but Savolaks is a worthwhile conquest. I hope that Sweden will now have an interest in allying with me, once their present alliance expires.

23rd February, 1608

Spain must still have been at war with Savoie following its war with France. The ever-confused burghers of Calais (having been English, French, English again, and then Savoyard) are now Spanish.

2nd May, 1608

This is my last day in office, and my bags are packed ready for Sandomierz. My last duty is to record that Sweden has taken Jamtland and Finnmark from Denmark - cutting off Denmark from Russia, to our delight. I can look back on my time in office as one in which the Commonwealth grew and prospered, and one in which I have erased the stain my grandfather laid on this book.

 

[hjarg]

Zagloba, i hate to say it, but haven't you forgotten something? Like next installment??? We are waiting... so please???

 

[Pan Zagloba]

Hjarg - sorry for making you wait. However, I don't think I'll have the chance to get back to EU until Monday night, so I'm afraid you'll need to hold on until Tuesday. However, I will also soon be finishing off my other Poland AAR - the game for which is still trapped on a slow laptop at work, so it's not all bad.

Zagloba

 

[Pan Zagloba]

THE BOOK OF MAREK JUROWSKI (1608 - 1619)

12th October, 1608

I have just returned from meeting the Regency Council, following my arrival from Jamaica. They updated me on their policies for the near and medium future. Our territory is now compact and defensible, following the capture of Pskov and Ingermanland. Our principal aim is defence at present (particularly given the resentment our annexation of the Teutonic Order caused). We are allied with Saxony and Prussia (who are our vassals). We propose to try and bring Prussia into the Commonwealth in the next few years, and Saxony will be our next target. In the longer term, we want to contain the expanse of the English in North America, while protecting our Aztec lands from the encroachment of the Spanish to the south. Our principal enemies at present are Russia, whose expansion eastward has been stalled by our capture of their only port. They are allied with Persia, which is worrying, and Scotland and Venice, which is less so. Although they have lost Novgorod, they are prime challenge to our pre-eminence in Central Europe, along with Austria.

Austria-Hungary are a problem in themselves. Rich, and very Catholic, we could face severe difficulties if they attacked us along with someone else. Fortunately, our other major eastern enemies, the Brandenburgers, hate them almost as much as we do. Brandenburg have expanded in recent years - taking Jylland (from Denmark) and Hannover. Although they are still under control, their power needs to be contained. The Turks to our southern border seem to have more problems with Russia (who eye their Crimean territories) than with us. The Swedes are potential friends, but currently deep enemies following our annexation of the Teutons.

Financially, our situation is strong. We are bringing in 570D annually in the census tax, and own gold mines all down the west American coast. We have now promoted chief judges in all areas, and our academicians tell us that they are hard at work at improving our skill at fortification. We have the most advanced land forces in Europe by some distance.

We are ruled by a Regency under Pan Potocki, which is highly skilled at both war and diplomacy. With this background I start my term of office.

17th October, 1608

The Austrians are trying to extend their power in the south - which gives us a chance to rest - by attacking Venice. Scotland and Russia will be unable to help the Serenissima, I think. The Austrians have brought Spain, Genoa, Hess, and the Knights into the war with them.

16th June, 1609

A report has come in from the Serenissima, that Venice is blockaded by the Austrian army, who also hold Tyrol.

20th August, 1609

England has waited for Spain's forces to be engaged in the Mediterranean, before declaring war. England, Brandenburg, the Hansa and Sweden take on Spain, the Pope, Genoa, Austria, Hesse and the Knights.

20th September, 1609

The war in Europe escalated yesterday, when Savoie, with France, Cologne and Portugal, declared war on Denmark (Brandenburg, the Hansa, Sweden and England). All the major powers of Europe are now at war. To enhance the power of the Protestant cause, I sent gifts to Sweden and Brandenburg, which had the effect of improving our relationships with them. We sent Pan Potocki's grandson to Stockholm, to cement our new good relations.

24th July, 1611

Although I have written nothing in this book for almost two years, this is not because Europe has been peaceful. All the major powers are still at war, although the Commonwealth is at peace. Perhaps a small alliance is the right policy to pursue. Our financial growth continues.

13th September, 1611

The wars in Europe are beginning to conclude, as all sides reach the bottom of their and their bankers' treasure-chests. The Hansa ceded Friesen to France in a agreement signed today.

19th February, 1612

The Venetians have returned Tyrol to Austrian control, but this has gained peace with all sides in their war. Austria remain at war with England, the Hansa, Brandenburg and Sweden. Since Matthias is Emperor, his forces are able to prosecute this war actively.

26th March, 1612

The power of Brandeburg has been pegged back, with the cession of Magdeburg to Austria. Word has come in from the eastern frontier that the Russians have been concentrating their forces near the border forts.

8th July, 1612

Brandenburg bounce back from the loss of Magdeburg - taking the Hague from Cologne.

5th January, 1613

A merchant from Novgorod came to see me today, and reported in detail what was happening on the Russian side of the border. The Russians have been conscripting troops constantly for almost two years now, and it has reached the stage where more are stationed in Moscow that the city and its environs can bear. The deaths are, apparently, horrific. But it now seems certain that a Russian attack on someone is inevitable. We rearrange our forces, building new armies to counter a Russian or Persian attack in the south. In the north, we divide our forces into four - two field armies and two siege armies, but draw them all back from the frontier, so that the Russians can wear themselves out on sieges before we need to attack them. Their Moscow army now stands at 86,000.

18th February, 1613

Savoy - astonishingly - have annexed the Hanseatic League's two provinces. We now have a border with them. Meanwhile, the Russians have split their armies into three 40,000 forces. We expect an attack once the spring comes.

24th October, 1613

Although the summer is past, there has been no Russian attack. That said, there is no change in the disposition of their forces, so we continue ready.

23rd June, 1614

The Russian forces wait, and so do we. If war comes, we will want to take out Moscow immediately, to bring the war to a close before the well-trained and numerous Persian armies can get here from the Caspian coast. France has taken Holstein from Denmark, removing the Danish presence on the main continent of Europe. Brandenburg has given the Spaniards control over the Hague.

18th August, 1614

The long-awaited Russian declaration of war arrived today. Their forces immediately marched towards Novgorod. Our forces, however, will stand back until the Spring, as such a large army will surely suffer huge attrition over the winter. Scotland, Venice and Persia joined the war, although we think Persia will be the only ones to take an active role.

5th October, 1614

The Russians have now concentrated all their forces in Novgorod - 76,000 men. We shall see how they enjoy the winter. We have sent a siege army behind them to take Moscow.

18th January, 1614

The Russian army around Novgorod are reduced to 20,000 men and will soon be ready for our cavalry units. We took Moscow a week ago, and move on Vologda, which has a valuable naval equipment manufactory. Before the main body of our troops left Moscow, we smashed the Russian vodka factory there. There is still no sign of any Persian force.

29th March, 1614

The Persian advance guard appeared in Tula two weeks ago, where they met Pan Radziwill and our southern detachment. The Persians lost 23,000 men and retreated into Vorones, pursued by Pan Radziwill. More Persians have appeared near Moscow. In better news, Pan Massalski drove the hungry Russian forces away from Novgorod, and the Moscow veterans have captured Vologda and Archangel.

16th June, 1614

The Russian war is over. As planned, we demanded peace and took what we could as soon as the main Persian force (almost 150,000 men in several detachments) began to appear in the Commonwealth. We only fought one battle with them - which I related above - but they will now have a long walk home. The Russians ceded Vologda (and its naval manufactory), and 250 ducats for peace. This was a successful war - at no point did we need to reinforce our main armies. A small amount of rebuilding will soon replace the losses from battle and attrition. Just before the war ended, we discovered a range of techniques for improving our fortifications. These will be rapidly put to use.

1st April, 1616

Our rebuilding has long since completed, and today we will be signing the treaty that brings Prussia into the Commonwealth, on the same terms as Pommerania. Now our alliance will consist only of us and Saxony. We will strive in coming months to expand that alliance.

7th October, 1616

Time passes in building and strengthening our fortresses. All border provinces will soon have Class 3 fortresses, while interior provinces will have Class 2 fortresses. Our colonies will also be fortified as necessary.

10th December, 1618

Russia has rebuilt following her unsuccessful war with the Commonwealth, and has declared war on Turkey. Russia's usual allies have joined - while Turkey brings in Oman and Mamelukes.

17th November, 1619

Russia gained Bogutjar from the Turks in a peace treaty, but it is pleasing to think that this was only territory that they had previously ceded to the Turks. The balance of power on our eastern border remains good for us.

 

[Storey]

I have to admit I thought you were crazy to change from Catholic to protestant in the middle of a war then following that up with a conquest of the Aztecs a 12 year war that you have trouble ending and Russia allied with the Turks lurking at your borders. Either you are destined for greatness or you are about to fall hard. It's going to be tough to top what you've done so far. good Luck and keep it coming.







Joe

 

[Pan Zagloba]

THE BOOK OF ARKADIUSZ WOLSKI (1619 - 1640)

6th March, 1623

The last border fortress - in Galicia - was upgraded to class 3 lat month. Our defences are now in place to withstand an long war. We suspect, given the poor relations we have with our bordering nations, that we can expect a two-front war the next time anyone declares war on us. We have therefore split our armies into two groups. One monitors the eastern frontier, with a siege force under Colonel Turgidson (a Swedish immigrant) constantly on watch near Moscow. The second group, under Hetman Radziwill, monitors the border with Austria from its base in Poznan.

19th July, 1623

There have been more troop movements near Moscow. Given that our peace treaty has expired, I think we can expect war before the summer is out.

21st August, 1623

The Russian envoy arrived today, and announced the entirely predictable war. The Persians, the Scots and the Venetians joined in. Our armies in the north have gone into action, and the western group stands ready for the inevitable declaration of war from Austria or Brandenburg.

20th September, 1623

The Russian armies turned back our forces from Moscow on the same day as the Austrians, Spanish, Genoans, Knights and Papal States declared war on us. Hetman Chodkiewicz is mobilised in Zacatecas, and has instructions first to burn every Spanish tradepost within reach, and occupy each of the colonial provinces Spain owns on the mainland of the New world. This is the worst hit we can inflict on Spain - our home armies are busy defending themselves.

19th November, 1623

Our armies have captured Moscow again, and a small detachment of suicidal hussars has been sent to capture the unfortified Archangel. Our armies in the south have been strangely unbothered by Austrian troops. An army of about 30,000 troops has been besieging Galicia, but I would have thought that the might of Austro-Hungary could do better than that. Hetman Radziwill waits in Poznan for the winter to take its toll on the Austrian troops.

26th January, 1624

We found out today - horribly - what the Austrians had been doing with their armies. A messenger arrived with the Elector of Saxony's head in a bag, and a proclamation from Vienna that Saxony was now and forever part of the Austrian empire. Sure enough, a large Austrian force is making its way towards Poznan. After a brief consultation with the Regent Council, I summoned the Russian envoy and made him an offer he couldn't refuse - we would release Russia from this war merely for the cession of Archangel. He agreed, astonished. After I dismissed him, I sent orders to all our armies to head southwards at once, winter or no winter. The Austrians are going to be a tough match, and once again the Commonwealth stands alone.

16th February, 1624

Troubles pile on troubles. The Brandenburgian envoy arrived today, and announced that his country, along with Sweden, Denmark and Bohemia, were now at war with us. This is a painful combination - Sweden, Brandenburg and Bohemia all have borders with the Commonwealth.

28th March, 1624

Swedish soldiers are on the march in the north of the Commonwealth, and they are like nothing we have ever seen. Those few survivors from the hastily-raised levies there report that they are the best-drilled soldiers ever. Their generals' skill is also widely admired. The Regents and I sit down to talk tactics. There can be no prospect of defeating the Swedes in pitched battle. We have to take out Brandenburg, the leader of the alliance - which will neutralise any Swedish conquests. To this end, we order 100 cannon to be built in Warsaw, and send Hetman Radziwill out of Poznan to lay siege in Kustrin. Meanwhile, our forces in the north are arriving slowly in the south, and drive the Austrian forces from Galicia to Krakow. There, 30,000 Bohemians appear and join them in a siege, which gives us no chance of driving them off while Brandenburg stands.

4th June, 1624

Brandenburg's forces have all made for Western Pommerania, which was ungarrisoned but well-fortified. We therefore send our troops - including our new siege force of 100 cannon - with them to lay siege to their two remaining provinces. Krakow is holding out against an Austro-Bohemian army that has swelled to 80,000.

19th September, 1624

The Russians, still smarting at the loss of Archangel, have decided to take out their pent-up aggression on the Uzbeks.

9th December, 1624

Kustrin has fallen to our troops, and the veterans of that siege are sent to join the new force around Berlin. The Brandenburg army in Western Pommerania has realised at length what is going on, and has sent a detachment to try and raise the siege of Berlin.

16th March, 1625

We beat off the initial attack of the Brandenburg detachment, but now that Berlin's walls are weakening, their full force has abandoned the siege, and is on its way to meet us. We shall see who gets there first.

12th June, 1625

Berlin has fallen to the Commonwealth's armies! A triumphant battle outside the walls, in which we sent the Brandenburg army scurrying into Kustrin, finally sapped the stamina of the defenders. The city gave way a few days later. We would love nothing more dearly than to annex Brandenburg completely, but the strategic imperative, given that Sweden now controls four of our northern provinces, means that we must spare them for now. They cede Kustrin to us - reducing them to one province - and the highly disgruntled Swedes are forced to give up their possessions and march empty-handed out of the Commonwealth. We have been much impressed with the Swedes, and I have orders to refrain from alliances until our money and the expiration of the Brandenburg alliance, allow us to flatter the Swedes into joining us. Now to deal with the Austrians.

27th June, 1625

The Austrians hold Galicia, but clearly realise that our full attention is now with them. In consequence, I find the Austrian envoy at my door every morning with an offer of peace, demanding Galicia and 250 ducats. Oh no, not for the conquerors of our old Saxon allies!

8th July, 1625

Our troops are now disposed around the border. We have one of the Brandenburgian veterans laying siege to Galicia. A field army has been sent forward of the lines to take out two large Austrian armies that are doing nothing around Vienna. When that work is complete, we will move another siege army into Carpathia.

19th September, 1625

Our field army has smashed through Austrian lines outside Vienna, but then decided to retreat into the Commonwealth to spend the winter. Our siege army will be sent to reinforce the siege at Galicia.

5th January, 1626

Galicia returns to Commonwealth rule, and the two armies besieging it wait for the Spring to attack Carpathia and Ruthenia.

24th May, 1626

Our messenger to Sweden has returned with news that our gift there was well received. Our field army has just been narrowly beaten outside Krakow, which is now under siege by a small Austrian force. However, Carpathia is in our hands, and Ruthenia is about to fall.

9th October, 1626

Although I admire their courage, the Ruthenian garrison were a stubborn lot. However, they are now either dead or imprisoned, and no longer pose a problem. The Austrians are a stubborn race, though. Their Emperor refuses to listen to any peace offers, even though we are only asking for one of the two provinces we control.

21st April, 1627

The obstinacy of the Austrians amazes me - we have sent an army into Pressburg to make them see sense.

8th September, 1627

Our army in Pressburg is near success, but an Austrian army has come up through the Empire's territory, and are currently laying siege to Poznan.

2nd December, 1627

At last the Austrians agree to peace, and the rebuilding can commence. We gained Ruthenia which - we were horrified to see - does not even have a tax collection mechanism in place. There'll be no such Austrian slackness while I'm in charge of such matters in Ruthenia!

5th August, 1628

Horrified by the thought that they might need to pay for the many services the Commonwealth provides, the Ruthenian peasants rose in revolt last month. A brigade was sent from Krakow to deal with them and - unmoved by cries of "we pay your wages" - the peasants were dispersed with extreme prejudice into the countryside.

7th December, 1631

A wild-eyed man presents himself at my audience this morning. On being asked who he is, he responds "the envoy of the free and independent Duchy of Holstein". I look at the map for a moment, trying to recollect. "Holstein, Holstein... Remind me..." I say. The man, looking peeved, adds "most people call it French Denmark. But no longer! We have thrown off the French yoke, and have stood proud as a people again." Well, that's nice, I suppose. The French have no other provinces nearby, so this lot of lunatics might even survive as an independent state.

20th September, 1632

Lightning out of a blue sky! The faithless Russian scum have declared war on us. Our armies are completely unprepared for another long war. I think that we may need to buy them off this war.

7th October, 1632

The venal Russians have agreed to call off the war for 250 ducats. We will have them all back, and more.

25th March, 1633

"Arkadiusz Wolski, Castellan of Kalisz, to his noble brother Michal Potocki, Interrex and Grand Hetman of the Crown, greetings! Stockholm, from where I write, is a pleasant city. More watery than one would expect, I found. The vodka, though, is of a quite inferior quality. The Swedish King was gracious at our meeting yesterday, and seemed extremely pleased with the gift we sent him. Completely tasteless of course, but that's what absolute monarchs like, I suppose. Its being made of pure gold probably helped. I talked for some time to a young man in the foreign service here, who told me in confidence (though you can pass this on to the other Regents) that Sweden now regarded itself as the closest of our friends. This was very gratifying. Assuming that they don't get involved in any silly wars between now and 1635, their alliance with Brandenburg will expire, and we will be in an excellent position to ally with them - a strong power against the Russians, and bordering us to work against the Austrian menace. I return tomorrow. Once you have read this, please give it or a copy to Rzedzian to paste into my chronicle book. Arkadiusz Wolski."

1st September, 1635

The Commonwealth is no longer alone, as the Swedish king, still among the closest of our friends, ditches his Brandenburgian friends and allies with us. We are very pleased - this will really counter Russian power in the East.

18th November, 1637

The Austrians (with their usual allies of the Spanish, the Genoans, the Knights and the Papal States) have declared war on Bohemia, Hessen and France. England have joined the Austrian alliance as well - I can see them having fun with the French.

9th December, 1637

Perhaps the King of Denmark knows something we don't, but he has declared war against, France, Bohemia and Hessen. Since he is alone, and can only travel by sea to France, this seems like gesture politics. Another gift to the King of Sweden was received very well.

22nd September, 1640

"Arkadiusz Wolski, Ambassador of the Most Serene Commonwealth of the Two Nations to the court of Sweden, to his noble brother Kazimierz Korzeniowski, Starost of Krementjug, greetings! I shall make this letter brief as I have many things to arrange. Pan Potocki has achieved his great ambition, and has secured the vassalisation of the Swedish kingdom to the Commonwealth. I was present here at the ceremony yesterday, when the new Swedish flag (a very fetching white eagle on a red background with a yellow-and-blue crossed shield on its chest) was flown for the first time from the Royal palace here in Stockholm. Potocki managed this vassalisation just in time - the new King is to be elected in a few months. Pan Potocki - given my role in the negotiations - was gracious enough to reward me with the title you see me use above. This means, however, that (besides my needing to order several crates of proper vodka) there is a new vacancy for the post of Castellan of Kalisz, with all the access to power that has traditionally implied. Of course, the final choice will be for the new king, but rest assured, dear brother, that I will be assiduous in pressing your claims. Arkadiusz Wolski."

 

[Storey]

With 20-20 hindsight I can say that getting Sweden in your alliance was brilliant.



Joe

 

[Pan Zagloba]

THE BOOK OF KAZIMIERZ KORZENIOWSKI (1640 - 1672)

January 1st, 1645

It is not that I have been neglecting this book. Indeed, I would not want to - the collected wisdom of so many great men is an invaluable companion of my rest time - it is just that so little has been happening of note. After the recent wars, we are settled on a path of peace - at least for the time being. The new King has decided that we are not in a position to attack anyone at any time soon. He has also said that our next target is to be the Turk. Our ambition - to drive him from all parts of Europe other than Constantinople. To prevent fighting on two fronts, I have therefore been back and forth between Wien and Stockholm, alternately placating our enemies in Austria with gifts, and flattering our allies in Sweden with promises. I have assured them that when war comes with the Turk, they will not be forgotten. Indeed, the Generals that hold office there at the moment are a skilled and fearsome crowd. I am glad that the Commonwealth has them as allies, rather than facing them as enemies.

Our researchers have made their long-awaited breakthrough in fortification technology. Our border forts are even now being upgraded, and are of a quality and effectiveness that surpasses any in Europe.

April 8th, 1645

The Uzbek envoy has been out of the city for some time. This usually means that there is a message come for him from his people - whose messengers are not used to the large cities or bustling populations of the west.

April 17th, 1645

The envoy has returned, in some distress, to say that the Russians have forced the kingdom into a peace treaty, ceding Tenghiz and Kustanai.

July 7th, 1645

It seems that the Turks are prepared to do us a favour. Keen, it seems, to wear out their armies before we get to them, they have declared war on the Mamelukes. Their lapdogs in Wallachia have joined them, as was to be expected.

June 15th, 1646

The Turks are making disturbingly good progress against the Mameluks. I hope that this war will come to a good conclusion - at present complete annexation could be on the cards, which would remove a threat (important to us) from Turkey's southern border.

June 17th, 1646

The French have reluctantly granted independence to their former "renegade province" of Holstein. The always-enthusiastic envoy of Holstein holds a lavish party in celebration, which the good-natured French ambassador attends. In the margins of the party, he tells me that the isolated province of Holstein was not really worth the trouble of equipping a task force to sail round the Netherlandish coast. But they do throw a good party.

January 6th, 1647

Pro-Brandenburgian rebels have taken control of our recently-upgraded fortress in Kustrin. I knew it was a mistake to employ local labour in its construction. It is so well-defended that we need to summon our garrison from Ruthenia to join the siege.

October 14th, 1647

The Russian ambassador asked to see me this morning. The King died a few days ago, and I assumed that they would be taking advantage of our weakness. Therefore, last night was spent in a furious revision of the disposition of our northern forces, and composing a suitably-worded letter to Stockholm. However, the news was much more pleasant than I was expecting - the Russians have declared war against the Turks, along with Scotland, Venice, Denmark and the Hedjaz. The Turk has, however, grown his own alliance with the addition of Tunisia, Algeria, Aden and Oman to the ever-faithful Wallachia.

December 28th, 1647

The Catholic priesthood are a low lot. Despite being of equal worth and honour to Protestant and Orthodox ministers - as specifically set out in the Regent's Declaration of all those years ago - they have been preaching against the King and the Seym, claiming that they are consigning the souls of all Poland to hell for heretical thoughts. Naturally, a few of the more gullible peasants believed them - they have a strong fear of Hell - and stability has suffered. In return, a strong policy of buttering up leading churchmen has been instituted.

January 7th, 1648

The new King, Jan Kazimierz, is a pleasant chap, although I can't say much for his taste in hats. The Russians are doing exactly what we would want them to do in the East - weakening the Turks without making any territorial conquests themselves.

April 16th, 1648

After an excellent campaign, in which thousands upon thousands of Turks and Russians died, the Russians have taken the poor province of Donetsk from Turkey for their pains. A good result for the Commonwealth. Our strategic ambition for the Russians at present is to keep them well away from the sea, both in the north and in the south.

October 4th, 1648

The Turks have made peace with the Mameluks, and have removed from them the provinces of Jordan, Lebanon and Aleppo. If that's what they can do with two wars going on, what could they do if they were only fighting one?

May 11th, 1653

All our fortresses on the border are now class four, and in the interior class 3 - even our weakest is now the equal of any in Europe. We have disposed our forces for peace around the country - an army in the North to handle the Russians, and an army in the East to handle either the Russians or the Turks. Our alliance with the Swedes remains strong - and, to be honest, we cannot see the point of extending it. In the west, England and France are fighting a war with two large alliances. The line-up is England (Spain, Austria, Genoa, the Knights, the Pope) vs. France (Savoie, Hesse, Bohemia and Cologne).

December 25th, 1653

The Turks are at war again, this time with the Persians, who declared war on Oman. Persia are fighting alone against Oman, Turkey, Algeria, Aden and Tunisia.

December 26th, 1656

I have spent the last three years travelling around the Holy Roman Empire, which is convulsed by the French-English war. My spies inform me that apart from some small colonial skirmishes, almost all the fighting is taking place in the Empire. I took 600 ducats with me to support the work of Hesse, Bohemia and France, whose power is being challenged by the Austrians. We need a strong France to balance Austria in Central Europe, and hopefully the Commonwealth's subventions have assisted that outcome. The recipients were certainly very grateful, and our relations with all three are now good.

January 27th, 1657

We have sent another 250 ducats to Paris, to pay for more troops. Bad news from the south, as Turkey have done well at Persia's expense, gaining Nuyssaybin, Kurdistan and Sivas in a peace treaty.

September 1st, 1657

Reports from my spies in the Empire suggest that the French are making the most of the money we've given them. They have raged throughout the whole Empire and - with their Hessian allies - are on the point of capturing the enclave of Austrian territory made up of Magdeburg and my unfortunate former ally, Saxony. France also has it sights on Wurttemburg, which is under siege. Cologne has taken Tirol - a remarkable achievement in itself - and their army is now confidently marching towards Vienna itself.

June 10th, 1658

France has signed the first peace treaty of the war, taking Flanders from Spain in return for peace. First of many conquests, we hope.

March 4th, 1659

France and Austria make peace, for Wurttemburg, which goes to France. This is certainly a good result for France, fighting against the three other major powers of Western Europe, and taking two European provinces from them. They will be a useful friend in future, we hope. However, there are differing views in the Senate as to whether we should invite them into an alliance to surround Austria, or whether the Russians and Turks are our principal concern. At present, Austria are quiescent, so we will stay aloof from foreign entanglements for now.

April 8th, 1659

The French-English war is over, with France gaining another province - this time a colonial possession in the Indies - from England.

June 18th, 1659

Clearly three provinces aren't enough for the hungry Turk. He, with his allies as before, has declared war against the Mameluks, whose friends in high places include our old friends the Russians, the Hedjaz and Venice. This is a worrying proposition. If the Russians are successful against the Turk, they could perhaps claim the Crimea, which would give them access to an open-water port. Since this is exactly what we want to prevent, we need to think about how to respond to this.

August 7th, 1659

I have refrained from my usual summer in the country to watch the situation in the Crimea. Russia are now laying siege to it, and the Turkish army is heading south rather than massing on my border. Perhaps they have ships in Constantinople, but I doubt it.

September 9th, 1659

We have declared war against Turkey. After an all-night session, at which the Chief Minister of Sweden was also present, the Senate agreed that the alliance's strategy would be fatally compromised by Russian control of a Black Sea port. Our aims for the campaign are therefore that we should take provinces from the Turk in such a configuration that to get to the coast, the Russians will have to take provinces from us. The Swedish Chief Minister hurries back to the border to send his troops on, while we dispose our forces. Two siege armies are to attack the Crimean provinces of Turkey. The first of these is to head straight for Kaffa. The second of these will move on the Crimea, where it will - though force of numbers - take control of the siege from the Russians. Meanwhile, an army of 20,000 and 200 cannon is being sent straight to Constantinople, to try and capture it. This will not be an easy task - but the conclusion we want to the war requires the possession of Constantinople as a bargaining chip.

April 8th, 1660

Our Swedish allies have arrived, and they are impressive allies indeed. General de la Gardie has moved his forces into Azow, to take control of the Russian siege there. Meanwhile, General Achteberg has begun a siege in Lugansk. Pan Sapieha, the winter over, moves on Constantinople. The mild winters of the Black Sea have allowed a siege force to be maintained throughout in Crimea, which is nearly in our hands.

July 17th, 1660

Pan Sapieha has reached Constantinople, while we have taken the Crimea, and moved on to Kaffa. Azow is now in the hands of Sweden, whose forces are now besieging Kalmuk. There are no Turkish armies left north of Bessarabia, so it's a question of taking the provinces we want and then demanding them.

December 25th, 1660

The King himself comes to Ochatow (the capital of the Bessarabia palatinate) and holds a sumptuous reception for the Swedish officers and Polish nobility. Only those involved in the Constantinople siege are unable to be present, but many toasts are drunk to their success.

September 21st, 1661

It has been a successful summer, and Pan Sapieha is doing severe damage to the allegedly impregnable walls of Constantinople. Today, the Swedes (with our agreement) signed a treaty taking Kalmuk and Azow. I reminded the Swedish legate on his way home that I had promised him that in Stockholm all those years ago, and he laughed. On a more serious note, we have promised that as long as Sweden keeps herself vassalised to us, we will use our armies to put down any rebellions in their southern empires.

November 21st, 1661

A joyous day, to be remembered for ever, as Pan Sapieha takes the bastion of the Islamic faith, and occupies Constantinople. He and all his men are completely overwhelmed by the richness and opulence there. The King is travelling tonight to see the city, and I am going with him. We will wait for while to get the best offer from the Turks. Meanwhile, once his men are rested, Pan Sapieha will be ordered to Macedonia, to give the Turks something to think about.

February 7th, 1662

I write this entry from a room in the Sultan's palace in Constantinople. The King stood on the steps of the church of the Holy Wisdom today, and made a speech to the garrison that I feel is worth reproducing in full here:

"Brothers! We stand here today in the holy city of the great Constantine. A city that was founded as a bastion of Christianity and remained so for a thousand years. Now, however, the Sultan pursues his vices and the heathens worship in the Church of the Holy Wisdom. Brothers, can we allow this? Will this be so for another thousand years? [Soldiers: No! No!]

"In a few weeks or months, a peace will be signed with the Turks, and they will take Constantinople back to be their capital. But in this holy place, sanctified by Constantine and by many saints, I swear before you now that after the peace and prosperity of the Commonwealth both at home and overseas, my sole ambition will be the restoration of Constantinople to the Christian faith, as a city of our Most Serene Commonwealth. [Soldiers: Yes! Pan Sapieha will do it! You will lead us! Vivat!]

"The task will not be easy, brothers. We will need to beat back the Turk until he has no foothold left in Europe. We will need to batter down the walls of Constantinople, until he knows that there is no place for him here. We have to drive him from his capital until he realises it is not safe. Then, with our brave Swedish allies and friends, we will sweep down, and the city of the Caesars will be brought into the common possession of us all. [Soldiers: Amen! Amen!]

"And when I have done so, I will bring the Patriarch back to Constantinople, and I will set the Christian religions together and forge love between them. And then I shall kneel at the altar of the Holy Wisdom, and I shall praise God for our achievements. Can we do this together, brothers? [Soldiers: Yes! Yes!]

"Are you with me? Will I have your voices in the Seym? [Soldiers: Yes! Always!] Then let us be about it, without delay, and God speed our efforts! [Soldiers: Vivat! Vivat respublica! Vivat Rex! Vivat Constantinopolis Polonica! Amen! Amen!]"

He then moved the entire crowd into the Church of St. Basil, where a solemn mass was held. The King refused to allow anything in the Church of the Holy Wisdom to be touched, "awaiting," as he put it, "the final victory of the Commonwealth."

November 18th, 1662

The Turks have come to terms with us, and have ceded the Crimea to us, locking Russia in from the sea. We also took Macedonia, after a long debate in the Senate. It was eventually decided that for Constantinople to be a regular target, we would need a base nearby. This was the choice. [Note on play rules. I've said to myself that if I can drive the Turks out of Europe (including the Crimea) completely, sack Constantinople five times, and gain a Turkish province in Asia Minor, I will edit the savegame to move the Turkish capital, thus making Constantinople annexable]

 

[Storey]

It's nice to see a goal being set and not set aside. Keeping the Russians from a port is a very interesting accomplishment. it adds to the game if the player alters his country's actions inorder
to keep the goal in sight. Very well written and planed scenario Pan Zagloba.



Joe