Union Court of Pskov-Novgorod

[N Katsyev]

Псков-новгород
Union Court of Pskov-Novgorod

[anchor=stat]Realm (Short):[/anchor] Pskov-Novgorod
Realm (Full): Sovereign Union of Pskov-Novgorod and Tver
Head of State: Czarina Mina Andreyevna Polotovskaya, "The Blessed", Grand Princess of Pskov-Novgorod, Tver and Ryazan
Player: N Katsyev
Religion: Orthodox Christianity
Culture: Russian, Finno-Ugric
Stats: 3/0/3/4(5)/3 --> [3/0/3/5/4]
-- Orthodox Church Centre: +1 morale --
-- Annexations of Tver and Ryazan --
Provinces: 7
Major Ports: 0
Owned: Pskov, Novgorod‡, Olonets, Karelia, Arkhangel'sk, Tver, Ryazan
Current Year: 1458

[anchor=back]Court Archive and Information Contents[/anchor]
[anchorlink=stat] --- General Statistics --- [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=gov] --- Pskov-Novgorod Government Information --- [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=clt] - Pskov-Novgorod Cultural Information - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=rel] - Pskov-Novgorod Religious Information - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=ssc] - Pskov-Novgorod Social Scale - [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=char] --- Character List --- [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=dynasty] - Polotovski Dynasty Information - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=clan] - Notable Clans of Pskov-Novgorod - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=notable] - Other Noteworthy Characters - [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=history] --- Pskov-Novgorod History Section --- [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=intro] - Historical Introduction to Pskov-Novgorod - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=cha] - Of Pskov and Novgorod ~ 1432 - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=chb] - Rise of the Oligarchy 1420 ~ 1440 - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=chc] - Pskov-Novgorod Becomes Sovereign 1440 ~ 1444 [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=chd] - War and Revolution 1444 ~ 1448 [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=geo] --- Pskov-Novgorod Geography --- [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=pskmap] - Map of Pskov Region - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=nvgmap] - Map of Novgorod Region - [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=dip] --- Diplomacy --- [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=relations] - Pskov-Novgorod Diplomatic Matrix - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=evoy] - Pskov-Novgorod Ambassadors Home & Abroad -[/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=treaty] - Pskov-Novgorod Active Treaty List - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=wars] - Pskov-Novgorod War List - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=claims] - Territory Currently Claimed by Pskov-Novgorod - [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=pat] --- The Russian Patriarchate in Novgorod --- [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=ecomil] --- Pskov-Novgorod Economy and Military Information --- [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=tradeorg] - Major Trading Organizations - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=colo] - Colonial Information and Developments - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=infra] - Infrastructure and Developments - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=orth] - Religious Institutions and Developments - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=tech] - Technology and Developments - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=army] - Brief Overview of the Army - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=comp] - Overview of Army Composition - [/anchorlink]
[anchorlink=navy] - Navy of Pskov-Novgorod - [/anchorlink]

[anchorlink=courtent] --- Welcome to the Union Court of Pskov-Novgorod --- [/anchorlink]

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[anchor=gov]Government of Pskov-Novgorod[/anchor] ​

Sovereign Realms of Pskov-Novgorod​

Sovereign Principality of Pskov:
Sovereign: Grand Princess Mina Andreyevna
Administrator: The will of the people of Pskov
Provinces: Pskov
Principal City: Pskov
Other Major Cities: Pyatolovo, Pechory, Ostrova, Dno, Porkhov, Gdov


Sovereign Principality of Lord Great Novgorod:
Sovereign: Grand Princess Mina Andreyevna
Administrator: The will of the people of Novgorod
Provinces: Novgorod, Olonets, Karelia, Arkhangl'sk
Principal City: Novgorod
Other Major Cities: Luga, Staraya Russa, Ladoga, Pudozhkoye, Olonets, Byedantsa
Major Colonial Settlements: Zavidgrad, Arkhangl'sk, Mezen, Kem


Principality of Tver:
Sovereign: Grand Princess Mina Andreyevna
Administrator: Prince Ivan Borisitch, Voevoda of Tver
Provinces: Tver
Principal City: Tver
Other Major Cities: Zubtsov, Rzhev, Torzhok

Principality of Ryazan:
Sovereign: Grand Princess Mina Andreyevna
Administrator: Prince Andrei Yuriyevitch, Voevoda of Ryazan
Provinces: Ryazan
Principal City: Ryazan
Other Major Cities: Spassk-Ryazanskeey, Kasimov

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[anchor=clt]Cultural Diversity:[/anchor]
Culturally the major groups in Pskov-Novgorod are the Great Russians and Finno-Ugrics. The former vastly outnumber the latter, whom mostly reside in the further northerly regions of the Union. Great Russians are also culturally dominant with no challenge whatsoever and make up the vast majority of the populations of the cities. As such, the Russian language is the language of the court and the only one recognized on official documents.

Other minor cultures with numbers making them worth mentioning are the small yet thriving (though restricted from army service and the nobility) Jewish communities in Novgorod and Pskov. There are also a good number of Germans and Bulgars in the cities, especially again in Pskov and Novgorod. Western cities like Pechory and Pyatolovo boast healthy Baltic communities and in the far eastern colonies are the native tribes, dominant among them, the Komi and Samoyyeds.

[anchor=rel]Religious Tolerance:[/anchor]
Orthodox Christianity is the religion of not only the ruling class, but of an overwhelming majority of the population. A religous grouping known as the "non-possessors" is gaining strength among a number of Greek exiles from Mt. Athos following the fall of Constantinople. Though this group is largely based in Novgorod, a large supporter of this group is the Metropolitan of the Novgorod Diocese, Mitula Semyonivitch. The Metroplitan of the Pskov Diocese is a younger man of the faith, Dmitri Rhuzinin.

The Catholic community with Pskov-Novgorod, often deemed with distaste by much of the ruling class as "Papists" is not officially discriminated against in any extraordinary way. In the same way as Jews and Muslims they must petition the Grand Princess in Pskov for permission to construct new sites of worship unless such permission is previously granted. Most of such petitions involve a "generous donation" to the Kremlin coffers.

Muslims, mostly Volga Bulgars, do have a strong population base in Novgorod where like the Catholics they do not recieve any special discrimination. Pagans such as those in the far north and east of the realm, among the native populations are widely left unmolested. Wandering priests, disillusioned with the structured church life in the southern provinces often journey out to build chappels in the wilderness among the pagans and have a decent success rate.

The church is a pacifistic power in Pskov-Novgorod as it is in much the rest of Russia. It is a far too diverse realm in terms of culture and religion to make aggressive church policies beneficial or even desired. Those of the Orthodox faith will find life generally smoother however and their connections more varied, for this reason alone many of the ambitious eventually convert at their own will. The one universal restriction of organized religions in Pskov-Novgorod other than Orthodox Christianity is that religious institutions' community activites are restricted to prayer and alms service.

[anchor=ssc]Social Scale:[/anchor]

Nobility:
(Uzed Prince, Count, Nizkniy Dvoryanstvo/Baron)
The traditional boyar class developed and developing in the rest of Russia is markedly different in Pskov-Novgorod. Most notably because unlike the rest of Russia where most of the wealth has shifted from commerce to the land, commerce - trade routes, resource and small manufacture - still plays the vital role in determining power. The Uzed (roughly equievelant to western appenages though significantly different) Princes mark the highest social scale, with only the family of the Grand Prince above.

Below the Uzed Princes are the Counts, powerful boyars who have accumulated and retained (most often through strictly organized inhereitance) great tracts of land and usually important trade routes, to make them eligible for the title. Counts often hold great sway and influence and among them are a number of the most powerful of the oligarch clans, Polotovski before attaining the Grand Prince title was the highest example of this class.

Below the Counts are lesser nobility, maybe sons of Counts whose lands were divided to the extent where they have lost the title. Among westerners this class is often referred to as Barons, though the title is not often used in Pskov-Novgorod. This class is still noble and entitled to the same benefits, but are often lacking real influence and power. Rich individuals not of noble rank may attain noble status in this strata upon petition to the Grand Prince, which often includes a substantial tribute.

Merchant Class: The merchant class itself is not a recognized strata in the legal sense and in practice spans noble and non-noble alike. However in speech it most commonly meant as individuals of considerable wealth and prosperity who either do not qualify for, have not applied for, or have not recieved noble status. The "merchant class" then covers everything from comfortable city burghers and artisans to great and extensively powerful men to the point of being among the highest Oligarchs such as the Breshev family. The "merchant-class" has no special laws or privelidges apart from the members being either noble or non-noble.

Commoners: Making up the broad base of Pskov-Novgorod society as with any other are the men whose shoulders greatness is lifted for all to see. From farmer, to house servant, low level artisan or recently conscripted soldier the commoners are omnipresent and take nearly as many forms. Serfdom is not an institution in Pskov-Novgorod and so technically every man has a chance to attain a higher level. However strong rooted traditions in community mutual support and reliance, while providing an incredibly resilient social base in times of crisis and need, also discourages just such entrepneurism among the lowest levels of society and so such opportunity is rarely seen. It is a social reality that while opportunity is in theory available for any and equal, in practice the richer merchant families and to greater extent the noble families enjoy opportunity on a scale amost unimaginable for the common farmer.

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Trinity Cathedral:

Pskovskeey Kryemlin:

A provincial village chappel:

Lake Pskova

[anchorlink=back](Return to Court Archive)[/anchorlink]​

 

[N Katsyev]

[anchor=char]Important Persons of Pskov-Novgorod[/anchor]​

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NOTES​

1) Characters in bold are or have held the title grand prince, this will also include their years as service as Grand Prince.
2) One's relation to ones family is in order of birth to the father, unless one is an only child (or presently only child) in which case they are just listed as "son of" or "daughter of".
3) As for female family names and marriage, the current name is listed first, then further names are parenthetical in current to past order until the maiden name.
4) Characters currently not in play will be followed by --OOP--.

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[anchor=dynasty]The Polotovski Dynasty[/anchor]

Link --- > Polotovski Geneaology (Thanks to Kent I Wallmi)

Before the Ascension
The Polotovski family had always been a rather powerful boyar clan in Novgorod and Pskov politics. Prince Andrey I Polotovski (1374 - 1433) did much to enhance his families prestige with the acquisition of additional lands in both Olonets and Novgorod after their transition to control of Pskov during the war. The brothers Prince Andrey I and Prince Yuri I Polotovski were often at odds, one favoring closer ties with Maskva, and the other with Lithuania. However their loyalty to their family seems to have prevented any serious conflicts between them.

Suddenly everything changed in 1432, the respective veche of Novgorod and Pskov had had enough with Grand Prince Pytor's constantly changing and erratic policies. His family while on the one hand liberating Novgorod from the Mongols had the taint of Mongol cooperation hanging on its shoulders. He was heirless, and it was time for a change. Grand Prince Pytor was ousted from the title of Grand Prince and imprisoned, he would die not more than a couple months later of illness. In his place the veche of Pskov elected the ever more powerful Prince Andrey I Polotovski, thereby starting the Polotovski dynasty and their possession of the title "Grand Prince".
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Grand Prince Andrey Georgiyevitch Polotovski (1432 - 1433)
born October 1374, 1st son of Georgi Polotovski, founder of the Polotovski dynasty. Was elected Grand Prince following the expulsion of the previous Grand Prince, Pytor by the Veche of Pskov. Led a rather uneventful if very short reign and was noted only for his rather pro-Moscovy policies. Died in his sleep 1433. --OOP--

Princess Olga Neekeeteechna Polotovskaya (Timeshenko)
born May 1381, daughter of Nikita Timeshenko, wife of Grand Prince Andrey Polotovski. Died of illness in 1422. --OOP--

Prince Yuri Georgiyevitch Polotovski (exiled from Pskov, removed by vote of the veche) (1433 - 1436)
born April 1380, 2nd son of Georgi Polotovski -- Prince Yuri Polotovski, brother of the founder of the Polotovski dynasty, Grand Prince Andrey Polotovski, ruled for less than a turbulent three years. Famine greated him in his year of coronation and in such a deeply religious country, omens such as these are not easily forgotten. Yuri unlike his brother was fiercely determined to seperate Pskov from Moskva and wanted to pull her into the Lithuanian-Polish camp. The masses would not have the idea however of being a part of a newly Catholic country and voted him out of the title of Grand Prince. Deemed dangerous if allowed to escape to Lithuania during the vulnerable first couple years of his nephew's reign, he was escorted across the border into Tver and held prisoner there for year, later he was officially banished from the realm. As far as anyone knows he is still in Tver... When he re-emerged to the common knowledge, it was as the Prince of Rzhev, an appenage of Tver. There he acted as friend and behind the scenes go-between for the Grand Prince Boris and Czarina Mina Andreyevna.

Grand Prince Yuri II Andreyevitch Polotovski (1436 - 1438 )
born December 1400, 1st son of Grand Prince Andrey Georgiyevitch Polotovski. Unlike his father Yuri II seems politically rather anti-Moscow, however he is no fan of the Lithuanians either, a large proponent of increased Baltic trade. Since the death of his wife Misha and mother in 1422, whom he loved dearly, he lacks many of the vital energies of life. He seems to most to be simply wasting away. However he has been a ruler with a rather quiet reign, something that the peasants are very glad for. He never remarried and is rather distant from his children, especially his daughter, Katya. A Polotovski family secret, feeling ill-suited to rule Pskov anylonger the Grand Prince abdicated, faking his illness and death and retiring to serve god in a remote provincial villiage for the remainder of his life. He returned in 1446 after the battle of Pskov at the time of greatest need for his people and his family. Mortally wounded during the rescue of his sister, he was interred in the same wilderness where he had spent so many years in peace following his abdication. Died of wounds recieved in battle, 1446 --OOP--

Princess Misha Yuriyevna Polotovskaya (Golytsin)
born August 1397, 2nd daughter of Yuri Golystin, died during childbirth in 1422. Wife of Grand Prince Yuri II Polotovski. --OOP--

Grand Prince Pavyel Andreyevitch Polotovski (1438 - 1440 )
born February 1406, 2nd son of Grand Prince Andrey Georgiyevitch Polotovski. Next in line of succession after Prince Yuri II Polotovski, Prince Pavyel cares little for affairs of state. He spends most of his time hunting in the great forests north of Novgorod. His brother Yuri reprimands him from time to time on his spending habits, but aside from these letters and brief visits back to Pskov, Pavyel has little to do with official life or with the court and his family, period. After recieiving word of his brother's retirement Pavyel took on the responsibility of becoming the next Grand Prince. However he travelled abroad to gain experience, leaving his then seventeen year old sister, Mina as regent. Upon his return he would only rule several months before abdication. After that he would host the famous tournament at Izborsk before fading into obscurity in a sort of carefree lifestyle once more. Following the 1446 battle of Pskov he began gathering the family at a monastary-citadel on Lake Pskova.

Czarina Mina Andreyevna Polotovskaya (1438 - 1440, 1440- )
born August 1421, daughter of Grand Prince Andrey Georgiyevitch Polotovski. Sister to Grand Prince Yuri II and Pavyel Polotovski, Mina is a beautiful young woman. Many attribute a cruel streak in her personality (she had been known to throw cats and dogs off the Kremlin walls in fits of anger as a child) to her father's death at her young age of twelve and never truly knowing her mother. At seventeen in 1438 she was named by her brother, Grand Prince Pavyel as regent. After losing regency with the return of her brother, she became Grand Princess after her brother Pavyel's abdication. In mid 1440, she was titled by the Patriarch-Metropolitan as "the Blessed". In 1442 she assumed the title "Czar" of Pskov-Novgorod, upon the granting of full sovereignity of Pskov-Novgorod by Moscovy per a peace treaty earlier that year.

Prince Andrei Yuriyevitch Polotovski
born September 1419 1st son of Grand Prince Yuri II Polotovski. A very intelligent and handsome young man as yet. An energetic follower of his father's ideals, and maybe even a bit more liberal with them. He is set to take the throne after his uncle, Pavyel, however many people of importance feel he will be the next Grand Prince as many believe that Pavyel will abdicate in favor of his nephew due to his nonchalant attitude toward the Pskov Kremlin. Andrei also is rumoured to have a bit of an infatuation with his aunt, Mina.

Princess Yakaterina Yuriyevna Polotovskaya
born August 1422 daughter of Grand Prince Yuri II Polotovski. Inheritor of her aunt's apperance and not the rather humble one of her mother, Princess Katya has always been rather troubled by the distance her father keeps between her and he. Near the same age as her brother Andrei, she spent much time with him in development, even joining in some of the more martial aspects of male childhood. She is rumoured to be quite skilled with the sword, even able to best her brother. Princess Katya is usually only found with her father when inspecting the city garrison and levy. Princess Katya since majority has spent less and less time in Pskov and more in Novgorod, occasionally accompanying her uncle Pavyel on his hunting trips.

Prince Ivan Borisitch of Tver
Husband to Czarina Mina Andreyevna and Tysatskeey and Voevoda of Tver. Prince Ivan was joined to the Grand Princess following a dynastic struggle with his older brother for who would rule Tver. Mina promised Pskov-Novgorod's support for him in exchange for concessions, which ultimately included marriage. Ivan openly and genuinely supports Mina and loves her both for herself and her ideals.

Princess Natalya Eevanavna Polotovskaya
Born October 1452, Natalya is the first child and daughter of Mina Andreyevna and Ivan Borisitch. Mina has made it quite evident in the way she takes such personal interest in her child that she plans on gaining immortality through her...

Prince Yaroslav Eevanivitch Polotovski
Born December 1455, Yaroslav is the second child and first son of Mina Andreyevna and Ivan Borisitch.

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[anchor=clan]Important and Noteworthy Clans of Pskov-Novgorod[/anchor]

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House Melnikov ​

Count Ivan Pytorivitch Melnikov
-- Born 12/1387

Vladimir Eevanivich Melnikov
-- Born 04/1418
Knave Knight of Renown. Champion of the Grand Tourney at Old Isaborska. Eldest son of Count Ivan Pytorivitch Melnikov.

Yuri Eevanivich Melnikov
-- Born 03/1420
Second son and child of Count Ivan Pytorivitch Melnikov. Travelled abroad for some years after falling into some trouble in Novgorod in his youth.

Yeleziveta Eevanavna Melnikova
-- Born 12/1422
Daughter of Count Ivan Pytorivitch Melnikov. Was married to Joao Duarte and eventually went with him to return back to Portugal after dynastic conflict.

Serena Pedravna Melnikova
-- Born ??/????
Wife to Vladimir Eevanivich Melnikov who met during the Izborska tournament.

Serena Vladimiravna Melnikova
-- Born 02/1450
"Soya", Daughter of Vladimir Eevanivich and Serena Pedravna.

Konstantin Vladimirovitch Melnikov
-- Born 02/1452
First son of Vladimir Eevanivitch and Serena Pedravna.

Nikolai Vladimirovitch Melnikov
-- Born 07/1453
Second son of Vladimir Eevanivitch and Serena Pedravna.

House Golytsin ​

Count Mikhail Yuriyevitch Golytsin
-- b. 1395
-- Son of Count Yuri Golytsin. Commander of the Pskov garrison, Supreme Field Commander. Brother of the deceased wife of Grand Prince Yuri II Polotovski. Now the senior member of one of Pskov's more powerful boyar clans.

Countess Klavia Osipovna Golytsina
-- b. 1409
-- Wife to Vyesheslav Yuriyevitch.

Vyesheslav Yuriyevitch Golytsin
-- b. 1405
-- Son of Count Yuri Golytsin.

Varvara Vyesheslavovna Golytsina
-- b. 1429
-- Daughter of Vyesheslav Yuriyevitch.

Mikhail Vyesheslavivitch Golytsin
-- b. 1434
-- Son of Vyesheslav Yuriyevitch.

House Zhukov ​

Kazimir Andreyivitch Zhukov
-- b. 1396
-- Son of Andrey Zhukov

Alyona Nikiteevna Zhukova
-- b. 1401
-- Wife to Kazimir Andreyivitch

Sergey Kazimirivitch Zhukov
-- b. 1420
-- Son to Kazimir Andreyivitch. A younger member of the influential Zhukov clan, Sergey has proven himself already to be an able tactician. At only twenty two he had secured his first regimental command.

Varlam Kazimirivitch Zhukov
-- b. 1429
-- Son to Kazimir Andreyivitch.

Galina Kazimirovna Zhukova
-- b. 1431
-- Daughter to Kazimir Andreyivitch.

Sofiya Zhakaryevna Zhukova (maiden: Kharina)
-- b. 1424
-- Wife to Sergey Zhukov.

Alexei Sergeyovitch Zhukov
-- b. 1448
-- Son of Sergey Zhukov and Sofiya Zhakaryevna.

Grigoriy Sergeyovitch Zhukov
-- b. 1450
Second son of Sergey Zhukov and Sofiya Zhakaryevna

House Kharin ​

Count Zakhary Sdilavitch Kharin
-- b. 1400
Son of Sdila Kharin.

Countess Ivanna Olegevna Kharina
-- b. 1408
Wife to Count Zakhary Sdilavitch.

Sofiya Zakharyevna Kharina (Married to Zhukova)

Svetlana Zakharyevna Kharina
-- b. 1427
Daughter to Count Zakhary Sdilavitch

Arkady Zakharyivitch Kharin
-- b. 1431
Son to Count Zakhary Sdilavitch

Gavril Zakharyivitch Kharin
-- b. 1437
Son to Count Zakhary Sdilavitch

House Nimtsov ​

Prince Boris Sudislavivitch Nimtsov
-- b. 1410

Princess Polina Romanavna Nimtsova
-- b. 1415
Wife to Prince Boris Nimtsov.

Princess Anna Borisovna Nimtsova
-- b. 1431
Daughter to Boris Sudislavitich.

Prince Andrei Borisovitch Nimtsov
-- b. 1435
Son to Boris Sudislavitch.

House Breshev​

Nikita Romanivitch Breshev
-- b. 1401
-- Son to Roman Breshev. This Novgorod merchant of no short amount of fame or cash. This wealthy Russian enjoys nothing more than adorning himself with a ridiculous amount of jewlery. Is often used by the Novgorod veche to broker deals for the city.

Rurik Romanivitch Breshev
-- b. 1407
-- Son to Roman Breshev.

House Stroganov​

Fedor Dmitrivitch Stroganov
-- b. 1385

Lyudmila Stroganova
-- b. 1395

Anatoly Fedorivitch Stroganov
-- b. 1415

Kazimir Fedorivitch Stroganov
-- b. 1417

Pytor Fedorivitch Stroganov
-- b. 1420

Zinaida Fedoravna Stroganova
-- b. 1424

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[anchor=notable]Other Important and Notable Characters of Pskov-Novgorod[/anchor]

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Alexei Fydoravitch Timkin
-- Chief advisor to the Polotovski's...
A quiet, sage like old man, Timkin was Grand Prince Yuri II's tutor as a child. In the very few bouts of emotion the Grand Prince has had since the death of his wife, Timkin has been the calming factor. After the retirement of Grand Prince Yuri II, Alexi has found himself as a guide to Yuri's son, Andrei Polotovski. Passed, January 1457


Eelya Basilivitch Monorov
-- Originally a voted represntitive to keep an eye on the inner workings of the court by the Novgorod city veche, the post has long since been disbanded for its antiquity. Now Eelya acts as city treasurer and handles most of the taxes and tributes collected that are not send directly on to the Kremlin and Union court in Pskov.

Vasili Mikhailevitch Tinisheev
-- An elderly man that for some time served as a voted represntitive for the Pskov city veche to watch the court. Later, when the position was disbanded he blamed the deteroirating republican position on Sovereign Mina Polotovskaya. He spent the next years trying to create support for his cause. Ultimately he fell in with the Lithuanian invaders during the war and tried to restore what he saw was the natural way of things. He was later after the Battle of Velikaya Bridge, executed for treason in 1448 by the hand of Prince Andrei Polotovski. --OOP--

Nikolai Pytorevitch Karamzin
-- Commander of Pskov's servitor cavalry
Nilokai Karamzin is an energetic middle-aged man who had served Pskov for many years and has grown quite wealthy in doing so. However this wealth has only made him more loyal to the Grand Prince.

Servitor Ivan Mitikov
-- A large Russian of Varangian descent, and who looks like it too. Great golden hair, great golden beard, and a great sword. Loyal friend of the Princesses Polotovskaya, and Servitor to Pskov.

Boris Fydoritch Muritsev
-- Your typical peasant-turned soldier. A bit silly, but good hearted and not dumb. After initiation he was sent north to Olonets to serve in the newly commisioned Frontier Guard.

Prince Ivan Mikhailivitch Ostrov
-- Currently serving as Pskov's ambassador to far away Moldavia. Ostrov is a large, bass, middle-aged Russian, a bit pious and a bit of a heavy drinker at times. Ostrov has a thick slightly greying beard and a full head of hair, he often wears long flowing red robes with gold inlay when at court, a wooden crucifix around his neck.

Archbishop Dmitry Ruzhinin
-- Archbishop of the Pskov diocese. Newly appointed Dmitry is relatively young and still maintains many qualities of being young. Dmitry had been present and a key person in the blessing of the holy ground for the Cathedral of St. George the Blessed.

Nikolai Pytorivitch Gretzkov
-- The second son of a small merchant family. Nikolai Pytorivitch grew up in the markets of Gdov. However wander-lust hit this man hard, before long he would find himself in Pskov, Ostrov, and eventually Novgorod. Making a small fortune in Novgorod Gretzkov was one of the first to take up the call to Olonets during the regency of Mina Polotovskaya. With his money gone, he fell to manual labor in the sub-arctic poostash. Later he would return to Novgorod, there to try his hand at many odd jobs, including that of interpreter to foreigners due to his knowledge of latin.

Boris Sudislavitch and Vseslav Kuzmivitch
-- The former the member of a lower noble house, the latter a merchant from Novgorod. These two were sent southward to Yamhur as part of a diplomatic mission to assess the economic potential of that city. Their journey was an adventure, and one that did not end with their destination at Yamhur, then captured by the Timurids. They were lucky to escape with their lives, though soon their tale would take a darker turn...

Zavid Levivitch Probeetski
-- Zavid is one of the many merchant explorers of Pskov-Novgorod. His early fortunes made in the hinter regions of Novgorod and the Olonets. After the re-acquisition of Karelia and the Arkhangel province he went on a short expidition to White Sea. Upon returning he was charged with the contract for overseeing the construction of a colonial fortress on the lower Dvina. A hard man, who pushes himself hard and those working for him, harder.

Sadko Eevanivitch
-- In earlier years he accompanied his long-time friend Zavid Probeetski on numerous journeys into the wilds. But with age came a will to settle down. In such he purchased and runs an inn in the city of Pskov - often visited by English merchants who with recently increased trade have been quite frequent. However the main patrons at "The Dancing Bear" are the legions of explorers and adventurers so commonly found in Pskov-Novgorod. Men who find their fortunes in the wilds as Sadko himself once did.

The Brothers Lyudimov
-- Vyesheslav and Semyon, twins. Two rather ambitious nobles recently enriched from inheriting their father's estates. However they've gone a bit far and have found themselves in debt already...

Hetman Grigory Sudislavivitch
-- Hetman of his own rada of Don Cossacks. Grigory is a second generation on the steppe, his father one of the first Russian colonists who left from Novgorod many years ago to see a life of Volia on the steppe. Grigory believes in Volia above all else and is also a harsh defender of his brethren and faith from the ifidel... even if he can be just as harsh to those things as well...

Archbishop Mitula Semyonvitch
-- Archbishop of the Novgorod diocese. Mitula is a rather practical middle-aged man and known as a "non-possessor".

Konstantin Varlamivitch Krestsov
-- A close comrade to Vladimir Eevanivich Melnikov from numerous years as a fellow boyar in the army. Cousin to Coutess Ivanna Kharina and a distinguished warrior. Participated in Portugese tournament.

Metropolitan Sergius Romanivitch
-- With the seeming aura of intelligence, wisdom and inherent charisma Sergius Romanivitch has risen far from his humble beginnings as the son of a horse breeder on the eastern steppe of little Russia. His highest achievement of his middle years was becoming the Metropolitan of Kiev. Later after recieving the title he was exiled and escaped Kiev during the Orthodox uprising against King Vytautas. Joining the Synod in Constantinople and finding as much support as possible for the rebellion he was hailed as a true defender of the One True Faith.

Fedor Nikolitch Yevrin, Lyudmila Pavyelovna Yevrina
-- Established in London following the completion of the Baltic Gateway Accords, Fedor Yevrin (his family with him) became one of a number of intermediaries for merchants back in Novgorod seeking to sell directly into the western European market. Yevrin's most important duty, was his role as contract holder for official imports dictated by the Pskovskeey Kremlin itself, ultimately for Grand Princess Mina Andreyevna. Recently he has been imbued with diplomatic duties as well.

Vsevolod Grigoriitch
-- Chairman of the WHU Guild in Peterhof, Novgorod. Speaking fluent German and Swedish, Vsevolod was born to a german mother in Peterhof (The Hanseactic sector of Novgorod) in 1414. From a long line of involvement in the Germanic guild he inherited a substantial fortune from his father. He spent much of his youth abroad, travelling as far as Italy. Returning to Novgorod in 1444 he set about on a more political career, eventually winning for himself the Chairman position for the WHU Guild operating in Peterhof.

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[N Katsyev]

[anchor=history]History & Geography[/anchor]​

​

[anchor=intro]A Brief Introduction[/anchor]
Pskov was founded in 903 (as of 2003 it celebrated its 1100 birthday) by St. Olga, the first notable person to convert to the Byzantine Orthodox church and bring a true knowledge of the religion back to Kiev.

Pskov is easily one of Russia's oldest and most beautiful cities. It boasts a great number of extant historical monuments; the earliest of these go back to the 12 th century. There is a natural combination of ancient monuments (fortified walls with towers, churches and monasteries, and merchant's chambers) and modern buildings.

Pskov was the strongest fortress on the western border of Rus. Pskov's historical destiny as a warrior intercessor was reflected in its monuments, especially its architecture, an extraordinary, permanent, genuinely popular epic in stone. Those, who once upon a time came to Pskov bringing war and devastation, saw the invincible might of the fortress walls, the unshakable strenghth of Pskov churches. This fortress stands on a long, rocky promontory between the Pskova and Velikaya rivers.

Foreign commercial relations were of great importance for Pskov. Silver arab drachm appeared in Pskov already in the 9 th to 10 th centuries, and West European money came to Pskov in the 11 th to 12 th centuries. Largely a result of Pskov lying within the Baltic watershed and its proximity to the great merchant city of Novgrod.

History: ​

[anchor=cha]Of Pskov and Novgorod - 1432[/anchor]
Pskov and Novgorod throughout the Mongol period were uniquely able to maintain complete self-governance in the same manner they had ruled before. Much of this can be attributed to Pskov and Novgorod never falling to military conquest by the Mongols. The veche was the ultimate power in Pskov and Novgorod. The veche was an incredibly simple instrument, it was not an elected governing body, but actually an assembly called together by the ringing of the veche bell. Any free man could ring this bell and call together a veche meeting and as such any free could join in the meeting. Obviously however with increasing power, prestige and size of Novgorod (and Pskov seperately after 1348) this was also an incredibly awkward instrument, many times quite chaotic.

In later years a typical Novgorod veche meeting would entail two seperate groups meeting on opposite sides of the Volkhov river. Discussions would take place seperately on either side of the river, until some sort of conclusion had been made. At this point both parties would usually meet somewhere in the center, many times resulting in a horrible violent confrontation that would remind some of an unorganized riot as opposed to a governing body. Naturally had this been the only power, Novgorod and Pskov could not have continued to dominate Russia with unmatched commercialism and prosperity. However there was an invisible hand guiding and making the decisions behind the scenes... The oligarchs.

It should also be noted that both Republics elected a Prince to guide the country in affairs diplomatic and military. Traditionally this Prince would be an outsider with very little to no land within the Republics themselves. As an example of the very low standing of the Prince in Novgorod, he was not even allowed to reside in the city after the time of Yaroslav the Wise. The position as Prince could be passed on to one's heirs, however the Prince was always at the mercy of the veche. At any time he could be taken from his position and a new Price elected.

[anchor=chb]Rise of the Oligarchy 1420 - 1440 [/anchor]:
As of 1432 with the previous Prince of Pskov, Pytor voted out of his position a new one was elected, Prince Andrey I Polotovski. One of his first acts was to grant Novgorod complete independance, however the reborn Republic was only a shadow of her former self. Prince Andrey I Polotovski was then elected Prince of Novgorod. This election created the Union of Pskov-Novgorod both seperate Republics now sharing the same Prince.

However 1432 was monumental for many more reasons than the formation of the Pskov-Novgorod Union. It was the year that the Oligarchs cemented their control over the Republics by having one of their own elected to the position of Prince. Pskov-Novgorod was now truly and utterly ruled not by a mob-like gathering that still ritualistically gathered in each city, but an elite few of the Union's most wealthy and influential clans and persons, be they noble or merchant. Symbolically the veche still holds ultimate power, however every man in the gathering knows that his very livelihood is dependant upon the man influencing his vote and actions.

Andrey I Polotovski and his brother Yuri Polotovski spent much of the tumultuous years of the Russian wars expanding their holdings in both Pskov and Novgorod. With so many men looking for money in a time of war, it was easy practice to loan money they knew would not be repaid and to confiscate their estates in compensation. With the conclusion of peace, the Polotovski's were arguably the most wealthy and powerful clan within the Pskov Republic which at the time held complete sway over Novgorod. By electing one of their own, the Oligarchs effectively removed the last stumbling block to omnipotence, the Prince, the only other person who held power in the Republics beside the Veche.

[anchor=chc]Pskov-Novgorod Becomes Sovereign 1440 - 1444[/anchor]

Long after the title "Grand Prince of the Rus" became simply a pat on the back to the Mongol's favorite Russian servants, often either the Rurikid houses of Moscovy or Tver, it maintained symbolic meaning. The most important of this was the unity of the Rus and that technically all Russian princes were ruled over by the "Grand Prince". In practice this theory was repeatedly challenged, most notably by Novgorod, Pskov and Tver. Novgorod (and Pskov as that Republic was part of Novgorod until 1348) having been an uneasy member of Kievan Rus itself at best.

In 1442, this symbolic leadership was forever destroyed when the Moscovite Czar, posessor of the ancient "Grand Prince" title recognized the sovereignity of Pskov-Novgorod in a peace settlement. The Union of Pskov-Novgorod now recognized no greater authority. Her ruler at that time, Mina Andreyevna Polotovskaya becoming not only Grand Princess of Pskov and Novgorod, but Czarina, not in the sense of Basileus of both now sovereign realms. The title Czarina chosen in response to the Moscovite Grand Prince's adoption of the same title. The notable difference between them being the Moscovite Czar also claiming to be "Sovereign of all Russia", claiming all of what was once Kievan Rus as his rightful territory. The clan chosen by the oligarchs from among the oligarchs had in an area with strong republican tradition where Princes were discarded at whim; had made itself into a seemingly near-permanent institution. Much of this the work of Mina Andreyevna whose personal extensive patron-client network wielded never before seen power.

[anchor=chd] War and Revolution 1444 - 1448 [/anchor]

It was not long before the Union had begun to exercise its new found strength. Out of the 1442 Moscow war, Pskov-Novgorod had found herself on equal terms with Moscovy and with her economic prosperity, in many ways superior. However it was to prove that her greatest rival in the coming years was a country once looked to by both Pskov and Novgorod as an ally against Moscovite dominance, Lithuania.

There are truthes on both sides of the conflict that would soon erupt. Rumours of financing of rebellion on one side, speak of simply bolstering Orthodox within Lithuania against the hardships of war on the other. Whatever the case major rebellion broke out in Lithuania that would soon be blamed on Grand Princess Mina Andreyevna. It was not long before the Union of two merchant realms found themselves pitted against a military titan.

The war raged on for nearly three years, its climax at the battle of Pskov where tens of thousands of men died on both sides, it saw the death of the King of Lithuania and his heir and Mina Polotovskaya captured from the Kremlin whose walls had been scaled by overwhelming numbers of Lithuanian soldiers. Mina escaped however and in the north the shattered remnants of Pskov-Novgorod's army began to gather new strength. When the war ended, it ended in stalemate, with neither side any longer posessing the strength or organization to continue. At a costly price, Pskov-Novgorod had emerged from its greatest trial to date, battered, but not beaten - its worth proved by history's greatest honour - continued existance.

Not six months following the Lithuanian war. Conflict reared and loomed once more, this time from Moscow in the east, emboldened by their pact of submission to the Horde. However Czar Vasili of Moscovy was overthrown, and while Moscow remained under the Khanate yoke, the new Grand Prince and Mina Andreyevna agreed to armistice terms. Again, neither side having the strength necessary for a decisive conflict. Moscow faded once more into obscurity leaving her rival, Pskov-Novgorod the single obvious focal point for Russian identity.

The war years had been costly, exhausting and trying. However as Pskov-Novgorod embraced peace once more, she found herself emerging from the darkness of struggle into a different world. Lithuania was internally splintered, Moscovy was a shadow of former self, the strongest of the other Russian Principalities, Tver, Vladimir-Suzdal, Peseslavl-Ryzan were turning ever more to the west, to Pskov-Novgorod. Indeed, in less than two decades the Union had emerged to find herself an acknowledged defender of both the Russian identity and the Russian faith - two things that were never originally goals and ironically goals which she had obtained at frightful cost.

Planting the Seeds of the Future 1448 - 1455

Following the turmoil of the previous years, Pskov-Novgorod happily welcomed what looked like it would be a time of peace, recovery and respite. However it was very soon that her soldiers would once again march, this time as servitors in an inner conflict among the bound parties of the Mutual Defense Pact. There was Dynastic Struggle in Tver over the suspicious death of her Grand Prince and the ascension of the oldest son, a pro-Moscovite traditionalist to the throne. Mina Andreyevna recognized immediately that this could not simply be allowed to happen and decided to intervene on behalf of the younger son, already allied in his own uzed of Zubtsov with Pskov-Novgorod. As fortune would have it, the coup was nearly bloodless and in return for securing Tver for Ivan Borisitch, Mina Andreyevna was made Grand Princess of the principality with many years of consolidation and integration to follow.

The two major threats of the previous period, Moscovy and Lithuania remained quiet, their strength and centralization broken in the wars of the early and mid 40's. This would be a period where ancient threats to Russia's security once more did all in their power to make their influence known. The Horde in the east between ominous messages remained quiet, calculating, seeming as if gathering strength for a renewed assault on Rus. In the west, maybe even a deadlier dagger was preparing for war under her new Grand Master, the Teutonic Order. Weighing one enemy against the other Pskov-Novgorod's Czarina was able to arrange a treaty with the Teutons where in return for guarantees of non-aggression and rights to the entirety of the Pskova and Chudskoye lakes, Pskov-Novgorod would aid the Teutonic Order in a holy war against the Mongols. The war would never come however, the Teutons would fall once more into obscurity and the time of the Mongols' threat was soon to end as well - for a time anyway.

Domestically this was a generally a prosperous time, and even when the coffers weren't full to the brim, there was security and continued development. Great explorations were launched into the Kolskeey peninsula to the north, with Moscovy's inner turmoil there was little comptetition and soon these explorations would turn into the foundation of the Kandalashka colony, Pskov-Novgorod's permanent presence on the peninsula was now assured. The period saw education reform in the Orthodox Church and most importantly the marriage of Grand Princess Mina Andreyevna and Voevoda Ivan Borisitch and ultimately the birth of their first child, Princess Natalya Eevanavna Polotovskaya.

As 1455 came around, Pskov-Novgorod found herself in the strongest position she had ever enjoyed. Her traditional enemies had fallen to inactivity, her economy was as strong as it had ever been and the lands of Tver had been successfully integrated into her core, with it a significant boost to her population and agriculture. Pskov-Novgorod was a stable, strong realm, forged by the will of her Princess and leading a coalition of the other Russian Princes to prevent her enemies from being able to attack Russia piecemeal. With so much positive at home, it was no wonder that eyes began now to look outside, much of Pskov-Novgorod's rightful territory was still occupied by others - maybe the time had come to take it back?

And the story continues...

[anchor=geo]Geography[/anchor]

Estuary of the Pskova River

Pskov itself is situated on the Pskova river, and its surrounding land is dotted by rivers, lakes and ponds abound (1,500+). The area is heavily forested and contains extensive deposits of peat and limestone. The more than ample occurence of limestone is what helped create Pskov into the fortress city that it was and gave it a distinct appearance from other Russian cities and towns in that it was so gifted in stone buildings as opposed to the wooden settlements of the rest of Russia. Pskov's proximity to Novgorod and her abundance of water highways kept her a major commercial town throughout her existance. Other major cities within a relatively short distance of Pskov are Ostrova, Velikie Luki, Novgorod, Talinn and Riga.

[anchor=pskmap]Map of the Pskov Principality:[/anchor]

[anchor=nvgmap]Map of Greater Novgorod Region:[/anchor]

[anchor=rusmap14]Map of Northern Russia[/anchor]


[anchorlink=back](Return to Court Archive)[/anchorlink]​

 

[N Katsyev]

[anchor=dip] Diplomacy, Treaties, War and The Patriarchate[/anchor]

[anchor=relations]Table of Active Relations[/anchor]
Hatred... * Dearest of Friends...*****

Aragon... ***
Bavaria... ***
Bremen... ****
Bretagne... ***
Denmark... ***
Egypt... ***
Eire... ***
England... ***
France... ***
Frisia... ***
Gelre... ***
Golden Horde... *
Holstein... ***
Kingdom of Latvia... **
Moldavia... *****
Moscovy... **
Lithuania... ***
Pommerania... ***
Poland...***
Portugal... *****
Ryzan...**
Srvye...****
Vladimir-Suzdal...****
Sweden...****
Timurid Empire... **
Zayyanid Caliphate... ****
(This represents the Union's attitude toward target)
_____________________________
[anchor=envoy]Current Ambassadors Abroad [/anchor]

Prince Ivan Mikhailivitch Ostrov (Balkans)

Permanent Ambassadors from Foreign Courts

Dimitru Getrescu (Moldavia)


_____________________________

[anchor=treaty] Treaties Honored By and Involving Pskov-Novgorod [/anchor]

Right of Passage Granted to currently no realms.
Mutual Defense: None
Military Alliance: With Suzdal, Pravda y Edyenyiye
Trade Agreements:
Pact of Leeuwarden-Yanukov 3rd Quarter 1456 - 2nd Quarter 1463
Russian Free Fur-Trade Agreement of 1450 1st Quarter of 1450 - 1st Quarter of 1460
Other Agreements:
WHU Associate Membership - Establishment of Trade Organization Rights
Russian Solution of 1442 - Peace Treaty, some articles still active
Chudskoye Treaty of 1451 - Establishment of control of the Lakes

_____________________________

[anchor=wars]List of Wars of Pskov-Novgorod Participation [/anchor]

The Bremer War
2nd Quarter 1441 - 2nd Quarter 1442 - Victory over Moscovy

War of Lithuanian Aggression
2nd Quarter 1445 - 3rd Quarter 1447 - Mutual Armistice

The False Moscovite War
4th Quarter 1447 - 1st Quarter 1448 - Mutual Armistice

Ryazanskeey War
2nd Quarter 1455 - 4th Quarter 1455 - Annexation of Ryazan

_____________________________
[anchor=claims]Lands Claimed by Pskov-Novgorod [/anchor]

Province: Ingermanland
Owner: Duchy of Pommerania
Source of Claim: Territorial Integrity, Novgorod Principality

Province: Kexholm
Owner: Duchy of Pommerania
Source of Claim: Territorial Integrity, Novgorod Principality

Province: Kola
Owner: Moscovy
Source of Claim: Territorial Integrity, Novgorod Principality

Province: Karelia
Owner: Pskov-Novgorod
Source of Claim: Territorial Integrity, Novgorod Principality

Province: Arkhanglsk
Owner: Pskov-Novgorod
Source of Claim: Territorial Integrity, Novgorod Principality

Province: Velikya (Welikia)
Owner: Lithuania
Source of Claim: Territorial Integrity, Pskov Principality

Province: Pskov
Owner: Pskov-Novgorod
Source of Claim: Territorial Integrity, Pskov Principality

Province: Novgorod
Owner: Pskov-Novgorod
Source of Claim: Territorial Integrity, Novgorod Principality

Province: Olonets
Owner: Pskov-Novgorod
Source of Claim: Territorial Integrity, Novgorod Principality

Province: Tver
Owner: Pskov-Novgorod
Source of Claim: Acceptance of Pskov-Novgorod sovereignity by Prince Ivan Borisitch of Zubtsov

Province: Iaroslavl-Vologda (Vologda)
Owner: Moscovy
Source of Claim: Recognition of claim by the rightful Grand Prince of Moscovy, Yuri V of Vladimir-Suzdal

Province: Ryazan
Owner: Pskov-Novgorod
Source of Claim: Dynastic ties through the Polotovski Line

**

**


[anchor=pat]The Patriarchate in Novgorod[/anchor]

St Sophia (Holy Wisdom) Cathedral in Novgorod, completed in 1050

Russian Orthodox Patriarch:
His Holiness, Vicar of Christ, Patriarch of Novgorod, of all Great Russia and Georgia, Sergius Romanivitch

* * *​

In early 1449 by unanimous decision of the various Patriarchates, the support of countless followers, and his own struggle and effort the Russian Patriarchate was moved from its previous place in Moscow to the holy and ancient city of Lord Novgorod the Great under the Patriarchy of Sergius Romanivitch. Here in Novgorod, one of - if not the most ancient and revered cities in all of Rus, Patriarch Sergius immediately set about restoring the Russian church its honour and deserved grandeur.

-- Russian Patriarchal Decrees and Synods -- ​

Holy Russian Church Synod of 1449

Holy Russian Church Synod of 1450

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[N Katsyev]

[anchor=ecomil]Economy and Military[/anchor]

The Economy of Pskov-Novgorod

The economy of Pskov has since antiquity lay in the production of honey, furs, timber, timber products, limestone, grain, wax and leather. Due to the richness and relitive fertility of the land, Pskov has always been a very wealthy area. Wealthy and influential enough in fact to break away from the Novgorod principality and eventually to become its overlord (although the latter was more a choice of Novgorod than a sign of strength of Pskov).

Due to the abundance of waterways that link Pskov to the rest of northwestern Rus and the Baltic, it has always been a very startegic commercial city. Arab coins were found in the area of Pskov in the 9th and 10th centuries, even earlier than the cities founding in 903. Pskov currently is at its apex of power, controlling the vast lands of Novgorod and Olonets as well as her own rich home province. Furs make up a huge percentage of the trade conducted into and out of the realm.

Much in owing to its proximity to the Baltic, the leaders of Pskov, as well as those in Novgorod have always looked more westward than eastward as far as trade prospects go. Following the demise of Kiev and the Mongol invasions, Pskov and Novgorod became quite obviously the most rich commercial cities in all of Rus. Today Pskov is trying very hard to maintain these traditions, and as much as she exports, Pskov relies on imports for high quality textiles, and the latest metal manufacutured goods from western Europe.

[anchor=tradeorg]Major Trading Organizations[/anchor]

Trubetskoi: The Trubetskoi are one of the most conservative organizations in Pskov-Novgorod. The organization has existed in strength since (as its records proudly boast) the 10th century. The Trubetskoi are based in Pskova, but operate throughout Pskov-Novgorod. They see Pskov-Novgorod as Russia's economic, but not political heart.
Primary Regional Operations: Eastern Baltic, Northern Russia, and the Eastern colonies.
Head of Operations: The Trubetskoi Council, Chairman: Vladislav Putzshchov.

White Sea League: A rogue organization having developed itself in the White Sea colonies to exploit colonists has found that success brings with it responsibility. Petty and sometimes ruthless as it might be, the White Sea League has so far been the most successful in creating a working White Sea, intercolonial trade.
Primary Regional Operations: White Sea Colonies, Severnaya Dvina, Norway
Head of Operations: Various competing regional bosses.

WHU (Wendische Handels Union): The WHU is the sister organization of the Hansaeatic League and is based out of Stettin. Pskov and Novgorod both have 'associate' membership status and the local administration of the WHU is run out of the Peterhof section of Novgorod. The WHU is often used by local organizations to develop greater Baltic ties.
Primary Regional Operations: Baltic Sea, Northern Germany and Poland
Head of Operations: The local chairman in Peterhof, Vsevolod Grigoritch

Kremlin: The government, situated nearly always in Pskov's Kremlin. Government run trade deals primarily in providing a more mercantile base of funds in addition to more traditional methods such as taxation. As a merchant organization it is relatively small and insignificant, its political power and resources at its disposal however make it an important player in any equation. The Kremlin largely deals with specific purchases from foriegn markets, as well as keeping sole rights to mechant stalls along the postal-relay routes.
Primary Regional Operations: Post-relay routes, numerous and varied small dealings.
Head of Operations: Theoretically the Sovereign, in practice various advisors, maybe most importantly Eelya Basilivitch.

Breshevskiy: A personal mercantile empire, founded by a near legend in Pskov-Novgorod trade, Nikita Romanivitch Breshev and to a lesser extent his brother Rurik Romanivitch. The Brehevskiy have expanded to include other partners and are very often contracted by the Kremlin for specific deals and negotiations.
Primary Regional Operations: Baltic, Northern and Western Russia.
Head of Operations: Nikita Romanivitch Breshev

[anchor=colo] The Colonies [/anchor]
When the Polotovskis took power in 1432, Pskov's only greatly underpopulated region was that of the Olonets. However due to impending concerns of state and little attention, this large frontier stretching at its furthest to the White Sea itself saw little development or change. Later on the acquisition of Karelia and Arkhangl'sk and a free path to the old Novgorod colonies of the east would infinitly expand possiblities for colonial development.

However with the Regency of Mina Andreyevna, this region became an immediate pet-project of a Princess, anxious to show her worth. Great tracts of open land owned there by her family and more acquired from the Kremlin coffers was then granted freely to people's willing to move northward and set up permanent residence. Slowly and without at first great changes, the Olonets is beginning to show the fruit of Mina's labours.

Immediately following the reacquisition of Arkhangel region by Novgorod, fortune-hunters and frontiersmen flowed north into the new vaccum. And most importantly, the great territories of Novgorod's old colonies to the east. Following this personal endeavours was Mina's guided and funded projects to build fortress towns, one at the delta of the Severnaya Dvina to be named after the region, Arkhangl'sk and the second further south on the same river to be named Zavidgrad (Kotlas the natives' name for the area).

Major Projects:
Olonets Colonization
Svernaya Dvina Colonization
Kolskeey Expidition
Founding of Kandalashka


[anchor=infra] Infrastructure and Government [/anchor]
The main trade routes of Pskov-Novgorod like the rest of Russia do not rely mainly on land routes that can quickly become muddy in late summer, frozen and slow through tough terrain in the long winter. Instead, the extensive river, lake and stream systems of Pskov-Novgorod provide for nearly all transport of goods and a substantial part of travel itself. In the winter when the rivers freeze over, it is not uncommon for them to become sled highways with the ambience of countless dogs and horses, free from difficulties of the heavily forrested terrain.

The three best actual road systems in Pskov-Novgorod are the Pechory-Izborsk-Pskov road which relies upon a ferry to cross the Velikaya. The Pskova-Ostrov-Pyatolovo road which has a permanent bridge over the Velikaya and connects the breadbasket of the Union and the Pskov-Porkhov-Dno-Novgorod road which connects the two Principal cities of the Union. The great distance and rough terrain of the latter though, often make the river routes more viable except in late spring and summer.

Another one of Mina's early projects was to secure for Pskov-Novgorod a greater food base. This has always been the achiles heel of the commerce based Union. While Pskov-Novgorod rests on some of the most fertile land in Russia, the weather and incredibly short growing season limit agriculture to barely substinance levels. As such she has always been dependant upon imports from the Baltic grain harbours and the central Russian regions to feed her relatively massive urban population, Novgorod being among the largest cities in the world. To this end, the highly fertile but marshy lands south of Novgorod, east of Starya Russa underwent a great project of damning and draining which has adequately increased Pskov-Novgorod's ability to feed herself. Still foodstuffs remain one of the largest imports chartered by the Kremlin to maintain food stocks in case of emergency which in Russia can strike at any time.

Major Projects:
Draining of the East Novgorod Marshes
Solidifying the Union
Russian Post-Relay System and Reform
Union with Tver
Marriage of the Czarina
Incorporation of Tver


[anchor=orth] Religious Institutions [/anchor]
Since the time of ascension of the Polotovski's, the religious scene in Pskov-Novgorod has remained virtually unchanged. The double diocese of Pskov and Novgorod remain formidable within the Russian church due to their high populations. To date the largest religious developments have been from the miracle of St. Georgi and construction of a cathedral on that spot, which earned Mina the title, "the blessed"; and of course the transition of the home of the Russian Patriarchate from Moskva to Novgorod.

Major Projects:
Salvation of the Russian Patriarchate
Russian Orthodox Church Education Reform


[anchor=tech] Technology, Military, Education [/anchor]
Pskov-Novgorod has always through its commerce relations been much more tied into the developments coming from all directions. As such she remains a step ahead of her Russian brethren who are still recovering from the backward results of Tatar rule. Leaders like Mikhail Golytsin have kept tactics to date, and efforts by important persons even including Princess Ekaterina Polotovskaya are keeping Pskov-Novgorod at a decent rate of progress. However, its clear that a military reform will not be long in the coming. The re-structuring and creation of the army after its defeat outside the gates of Pskov have only made this that much more of a priority in a Union who has never been acclaimed for her military.

Major Projects:
Army Restoration

**

**​

Izborska Fortress​

[anchor=army] The Army of Pskov-Novgorod [/anchor]
Pskov follows in line with the military traditions of Maskva-Suzdal in posessing an army of mostly infantry with minimal archer and cavalry support. The Grand Princes of Pskov have however come up with their own answer for a strong heavy cavalry force in addition to the nobility cavalry, the servitors. Servitors are men not of noble birth, but granted land for life in turn for military service. As these men are not Boyars, they can be more trusted, and yet still be able to provide well enough for themselves from their gifted land to keep their weapons, arms, and training in the best possible way.

Standard Pskov-Novgorod Infantry Spearmen:

Pskov-Novgorod "Servitor" Heavy Cavalry:

Pskov-Novgorod "Frontier Guard" ​

​

***

[anchor=comp]Recruits and Part-Time/Full-Time Soldiers (Hired Landmil/Regular Landmil)[/anchor]: Every community depending upon its size must deliver a specified number of recruits per so many households, dependant upon the decree of the current time. Death, desertion, or capitvity of a soldier from a certain community requires that community offer a replacement after harvest of that year, or immediately in times of mobilization.

Vacancies in full-time soldier positions will always be filled first. The largest difference between the two classes is that full-time soldiers meet much more regularly for training and drills and have much more opportunity to recieve command roles over both classes of soldiers. Part-time soldiers are also given less equipment as well as less training and equipment to be bolstered only in times of war.

Finally, only full-time soldiers will be considered as applicants for Servitor or Kremlin Guard positions. As such for men who wish a military career but end up only being recruited to the part-time category will oftentimes asked to be put on a list to be transferred to the full-time class when a vacancy becomes open.

Kremlin Guard: The Kremlin Guard is an elite and loyal defense force of two hundred-fifty men hand selected by the Pskov Garrison Commander for exceptional skill, dedication, or achievement. The Kremlin Guard unit is used exclusively for protection within the Kremlin and possibly portions of it for city defense if the city itself ever came under attack. The priority of the Kremlin Guard of course is protection of the Grand Prince at all times within the Kremlin. The Kremlin Guard reside within the Kremlin itself and are only under Servitors in comfort of life.


Servitors: Not only a military caste, but another step on the economic scale. Servitors make up the bulk of the cavalry forces of Pskov-Novgorod. They are not noble and drawn from the most promising of the ranks of the full-time soldier class. They are granted non-hereditary lands in exchange for the best military service, allowing them to provide for themselves comfortably in ways both domestic and military.

Frontier Guard: The frontier guard is the most loosely ogranized body within the Pskov-Novgorod military organization. Selected from both classes of soldiers from the most independant-minded men. The frontier guard is charged with duties that their name very well hints of. Guarding the frontier and the hinter regions of Pskov-Novgorod.

From the swampy lowlands and forests of Karelia to the great expanses of the Dvina basin around Arkhangl'sk and Zavidgrad these men bring the laws and decrees of the Czarina to lands at the periphials of the state. Many times frontier guard soldiers after years of dedicated service are granted tracts of land in the wilderness they have defended with their lives. Their duties include everything from garrison duty at colonial fortresses to more mundane policing such as apprehending poachers and settling native disputes.

When called into active military service during war time. Frontier guard units operate in front of, beside and behind the enemy. Harassing supply lines, nightime attacks, and winter warfare is their duty and they carry it out with brutal efficiency. Due to the nature of the units themselves, they are only put into line duty as a last resort.

[anchor=navy] Navy of Pskov-Novgorod [/anchor]

​

History: Not since the time of Kiev when armed barges approached Constantinople in hostility to lay siege to her had a Russian realm concentrated on developing a sea-going tradition and force. However as Pskov-Novgorod begins reaching outward and her dependance on sea-lanes becomes more established, attention, even if so far small is once again being payed to developing what could be considered Russia's first navy.

Birth and Infancy: The navy of Pskov-Novgorod saw its true birth at the expanded city of Byedantsa (enlarged for this very purpose) when Princess Ekaterina Polotovskaya and Commander Mikhail Golytsin displayed the planned blanner for the ships being constructed there. Ships being constructed there from models delivered from Aragon, a country with a necessary sea-faring tradition due to the long distance in between its home provinces and its far-flung outposts and territories. Crews being trained there under the guidance of Aragonese crews and shipwrights, sent to Pskov-Novgorod by Aragon's King in goodwill for services rendered.

First Major Action: The navy of Pskov-Novgorod through the Lithuanian war of the mid 1440's was still very small, her only responsibility to patrol the Ladoga, Chudskoye and Pskova lakes and keep regional superiority. Due to the virtual lack of competing fleets, this was an easy task, and one that served the very worthy purpose of keeping the major shipping areas and frontiers safe.

After the defeat of the army outside of Pskova and her subsequent retreat northward, Mikhail Golytsin was eager to get his men back in fighting shape and return them to the main theatre of operations. Doing this however would require a costly march southward again through the wilderness of Olonets. The only other option, was to bring his army over water south, to the shores of Lake Pskova. The small fleet, its resources strained by war preformed more than admirably in its task and proudly attributes to its first significant war-time action, success. The landing of Mikhail Golytsin's men, was the beginning of the end of the Lithuanian occupation and the war a feat which the sea-fearers can most deservedly take credit.

[anchorlink=back](Return to Court Archive)[/anchorlink]​

 

[N Katsyev]

[anchor=courtent]Enterance to the Pskov Kremlin and Court [/anchor]

As you pass under the gates of Pskov, behind those impentrable walls, you are dazzled with the beauty and splendor of the Pskov Kremlin and adjoining cathedral. You are beckoned forward by your guide and you walk along the flower bordered path on your way to the hall of the Grand Prince. You notice a busy stork nest nustled at the top of a signal tower, but are only able to pay it a brief glance before you find yourself inside. You are brought through the entryway toward the great hall, and you can't help but notice as you pass the wealth of furs, hides, and trophies found on the walls and as garments on wealthy boyars going about their daily business. You know that anywhere in Western Europe entire stately ransoms would need be paid for just the wealth of fine furs you see in a single room here. And then, before you quite realize what is going on, your guide extends his arm and bows before the Czarina and calls out, "Most Humble Servant of God and Czarina of Pskov and Novgorod Mina Polotovskaya I present to you..."

The Court of Pskov is Open.

[anchorlink=back](Return to Court Archive)[/anchorlink]​

 

[N Katsyev]

Atop the Kremlin in Pskov

Grand Prince Yuri II leaned upon his elbows against the hard stone of the railing, looking out to the west with the warm summer air caressing his careworn face. A shadow of a man stood not too far behind him.

"Alexi my friend, sometimes I wonder... I wonder just how different this land could have been if my beloved Misha were here... you know, I miss her so."

"Yuri my friend, I know only that it would be a much more beautiful place, I miss the lady gravely myself. That being said, I know something else my friend..."

Yuri closed his eyes to hold back tears that he knew would come regardless as his longtime friend and advisor spoke to him. However the last words out of Alexi's mouth brought him into a curiousity clouding for the time his melancholy, and he softly spoke.

"Yes? What is this something else you speak of?"

Alexi Timkin confident that he had his lord's ear and attention, away from his sadness took a deep breath of the summer air and answered with a more deep and commanding tone.

"This air tells me, its time for a change. God's will is in this, the happenings of late, the time is critical for us, for Pskov. Moscovy lay dormant as does Lithuania for some time now, with our borders thus secure we must reach out once again to the rest of the world. We must secure new relationships with other realms of the Baltic, renew trade treaties, and most importantly... "

Yuri knew where the old man was leading this, and felt an old passion stir in his heart, he interrupted his friend -

"... and most importantly my dear Alexi, we must undermine the power of the Moscovy. I feel it as you do, but I lack the energy I used to have... then... it was a night like this you know, when she... "

Alexi had lost once again to the memory of Misha, he felt it, and now he must press forward quickly before all practical matters are once again lost on the Grand Prince.

"My dear Prince, excuse me, but I must say this. I have started preparing letters to send to our neighbors and those historically we have traded with, give me the word to send them, and I will."

"Of course, my friend, of course... you know what's best, you always have... please, I wish to be alone now..."

Yuri turned for a moment to face his old friend, Alexi bowed low and dissapeared once more into the shadows leaving his friend to stare at a sky that he saw sixteen years ago on a summer night like this and weep for his life gone.

 

[N Katsyev]

In the Veche hall at Novgorod

Eelya Monorov rolled a map out onto the table and carefully secured its edges, laying it flat for Grand Prince Yuri II and Alexi Temkin to see. Eelya drew a line with his finger from the tip of the Baltic Sea, through the Karelia peninsula, down the coast of the White Sea and east to the Ural Mountains.

"You see this, my Prince? This is the rightful, ancestral land of Novgorod. Do not ask me to draw for you with my finger the current borders of Pskov, Novgorod's protector for you to see, as it will cause me too great an amount of pain and discomfort."

Alexi sat quiet, looking with his aged eyes between his friend the Prince and this young man who had been recently elected to act as Novgorod's representitive to the Grand Prince. After some moments of silence, with Eeyla's eyes glued to Yuri, the Grand Prince started as if to say something, then fell silent. The Grand Prince paced about the room for a moment, then fell to a chuckle.

"I hardly see what is so humorous here..."

Grand Prince Yuri II interrupted the young man..

"What is so humorous my friend is the idea you imply to me. Do you honestly expect me to ride at the front of my men as we battle the Livonian order and Pommerania for Ingria... or how about battling the Moscovites for Karelia, or the coast of the White sea? You are proposing something completely..."

Eelya, seeing red with frustration broke out.

"Please my dear Prince, don't put me in the horrible position of putting myself in your displeasure by voicing my opinions on the words you use just now! You think too quickly. I am not asking what you say I am asking of you, I had not even come to my demand yet. My demand is that you put forth a proclomation of claims for Pskov. Claims based upon the territorial claims of Novgorod, that Pskov should now have right to, and will if the Veche of Novgorod so allows. Yet, nothing will be done unless you my Grand Prince make the first move."

Yuri feeling weak, took a seat and stared at the map for some moments more. Alexi watched the scene unfolding before him, weighing his options for the best time to intervene with his advice. Finally, Grand Prince Yuri spoke...

"Such a proclomation shall not by any power be confined to the halls of this Veche Eelya, you do realize this, right? Such a proclomation could be seen as a threat by our neighbors, and understandably so, we would be making a claim on land they control. Our neighbors will eventually learn of this..."

"Its been quite some time since Novgorod controlled the lands we are discussing. If we wait much longer, her claims may not be recognized as valid by much of the world's community. We must act now, Moscow and Lithuania both seem in a state of slumber as late, our major threats are therefore neutralized, if we don't act now, it will be too late to act later. I may be falling to emotion when saying this my Prince, but it is my belief that if Pskov falls to Moscow, than the land of the Rus will lose its last chance to be a land ruled by the people of Rus as opposed to yet another Mongol oppression under the guise of a Christian Emperor in Moscow."

Yuri looked to be losing his state of mind, and he looked to his friend Alexi. Alexi knew he was time was at hand...

"My dear Prince and friend, I believe his words ring of truth and wisdom, if not rashness as well. However in such times, chances must be taken. I agree we must put this issue of land claim before the Veche of Novgorod, with their approval, Pskov may then make rightful claim, as heir to the legacy of Novgorod, over all lands claimed by her. This will pave our way for the day when our small free state may set the standard for a future, united, and most importantly democratic Russia, where the monarch serves the people with the knowledge that his power may be stripped by them."

"Let it be, may God be with us on this decision."

With this the proper documents were written and put forward before the Veche of Novgorod, asking her to give her claims to her successor state and chosen protector, Pskov. The vote was passed, and so the Proclomaition of Claims, 1438 was created and codified.

Proclomaition of Claims, 1438

1) Novgorod's Claim to the lands of Ingria have been extended to the Grand Prince of Pskov, this land includes the provinces of Ingermanland and Kexholm.

2) Novgorod's Claim to the lands of Karelia have been extended to the Grand Prince of Pskov, this land includes the provinces of Kola and Karelia.

3) Novgorod's Claim to the lands of the White Sea have been extended to the Grand Prince of Pskov, this land includes the province of Arkhanglsk.

4) All land currently under the control of Pskov, yet not under the control of Pskov prior to the union of the two states are now considered to be claimed by Pskov proper.

5) If Pskov for whatever reason decides to surrender her claim to any land listed above does in no way cause Novgorod to lose her claim to these territories as well. Novgorod as is recognized is independantly run by her own veche under the chosen authority of the Grand Prince of Pskov.
***

 

[Longinus]

A group of nobles and merchants enter the audience chamber of Grand Prince Yuri II Andreyevitch Polotovski they bow and after introducing themselves their leader starts to speak.

"Your Grace,

My name is Konstanty Makuszynski herbu Leliva, I am here to express House of the Greif friendship and good will as both our realms were always closely tied to one another.

Joachim of the Greif was deeply saddened that you court was so silent during the last few months and that former Prince decided to cut his agreements with Pommern, now we hope that Pskov emerged even stronger from these troubled days and will enter and new era of cooperation with the House of the Greif and the West in general.

With this change we would like to discuss new possibilities for developing cooperation between our realms for we were once bounded by accords of mutual friendship, military help and trade partnership. We are open for any proposition and we already can propose the rewritten Concord of Pskov which can be discussed even further now.

The Concord of Pskov​

Article One - The Duchy of Pommern and Grand Principality of Pskov agree to provide each other with mutual defense in case of attack by a foreign power. If military assistance cannot be rendered for some reason, a payment of 10,000 ducats (1 eco) will be rendered unto the attacked party.

Article Two - The Duchy of Pommern and the Grand Principality of Pskov agree as to Pskov's trade supremacy and independence through all the lands of Rus. However, Wendishe Handels Union's merchants possess same rights in the land of Rus, most notably the city of Novograd, as Pskovian ones. Grand Principality of Pskov as associate with WHU swears to acquire same benefits for WHU as for Pskov in any future enterprises.

Article Three - The Duchy of Pommern and the Grand Principality of Pskov agree to cooperate in the extension and strengthening of the Wendische Handels Union throughout the Baltic. Merchant guilds will work in the close cooperation with Hansa and in future merge with her.
Article Four - Only Duchy of Pommern is bound to response to this agreement, none other realm that is allied with Pommerania is bound to help Grand Principality of Pskov if such time comes. The same rule apply to Grand Principality of Pskov's allies.

This signed and ratified by the Duke of Pommern and the Grand Prince of Pskov and his Vyeche, in the Year of Our Lord , in the sight of God and with his blessing.

Signatures

Should Your Grace is interested in maintaining the most cordial relations with the House of the Greif we are ready to serve with our advices and abilities.”

 

[N Katsyev]

Grand Prince Yuri II sat at the head of his hall with Alexi Timkin close at his side. He listened carefully to the delegates of Pommern, and took sometime scanning and re-reading their document of previous Concord of Pskov. After some time of consideration and providing food and other refreshments for his visitors he spoke,

"My dear friends of Pommern of gentle, gifted and noble birth. To begin, I cannot tell you how honoured I am to recieve you in my hall as my guests and that you have gited me with such an opportunity.

However, I must add that I also respect the decisions and wisdom of our predecessors, not to mention my advisors, the local assemblies, and of course my own conscience. The wise choice of before was rewarded by fate if you do so remember or have learned. However the benefits of increased trade cannot be ignored by any.

Myself and others have awaited this meeting and conversation for quite sometime now. In this time there has been much debate and discussion over how best to deal with this time when it arrives. Also in this time we have created our own proposal. I respect that some among you may have been given powers of approval, however I wish approval of my proposal to come only from your lord. As such I feel I must reject your most generous offer, and give to you one of my own, for you to bring to your lord and return an answer to me before the year is out. I wish all of you here a safe and pleasant travel back to your homes. Please, if you will now excuse me..."

With this Grand Prince Yuri II stood, bowed his head slightly to his guests and departed the hall. Alexi Timkin approached the leader of the Pommeranians and handed him the following document:

Ladoga Treaty of Mutual Enrichment

Article I: For every quarter of the year defined by January 1 till end of March, April 1 till end of June, July 1 till end of September, October 1 till end of December one hundred (100) unarmed Pommeranian persons of mercantile manner may be conducting trade in the province Novgorod. In the same manner, 100 persons Pskovooye will be allowed trade in the province of Ingermanland. The only exception is the July/September quarter in which the number of persons allowed in either case is tripled to 300 for increased trade due to harvest and the months of good weather.

Article II: Either state is obliged to offer adequate protection for foreign merchants within their borders for the period of their stay. Crimes committed against Merchants shall be discussed via ambassadors or personal contact of the lords of the realms. If after such a meeting either state is not satisfied, the treaty may be considered void.

Article III: This treaty has a life of two years from time of acceptance and signature by both parties. At the end of this two year term ammendments or even complete cancellation may occur. Cancellation or failure to live up to the articles of the agreement by either state (before the expiration date) may be seen as just cause for the terrible act of war.

Signed and approved by Grand Prince Yuri II Polotovski
***


Alexi Timkin after handing the document to the Pommeranian delegation then spoke,

"As a sign of increased bonds between our realms, we aslo wish to send a permenant ambassador to your realm with this document, Boris Pavyelevitch Mishkov. We hope your lord will be pleased with this and accept this gesture."

 

[N Katsyev]

In the Pskov Kremlin, October 1438


Three men stand in the corridor outside the bedchambers of Grand Prince Yuri Polotovski. Alexi Timkin, Prince Andrey Polotovski and Prince Pavyel Polotovski . There was some quiet conversation among the three men until at last Prince Pavyel bowed and spoke his final words.

"Nephew and trusted friend of my brother, you know as well as I that in the horrible chance of my brother not enduring this illness that I am hardly fit to rule after him. However we must all respect that in God our right to rule is trusted, and this is his fate, I absolutely must take the throne upon my brother's death if such is to be fate. I know many were under the impression that I would immediately abdiacate for my nephew, however this will not be the case, it would not be in God's plan. I have finished saying my farewells to my brother, he does not believe he will live, nor do I think any of us present here. I plan on travelling abroad now for a length of time I myself have not decided. I must do so in order to be a better ruler. If my dear brother dies before my return, I wish my sister Mina to become regent until my return. With this my friends, I depart. "

Prince Pavyel made haste to the door and was gone before the stunned Alexi or Andrei could decide how best to stop the set of events set in motion in those last few moments. However, once he was gone, he was gone... someday he would be back... Andrei turned to Alexi after some moments of silence.

"Do you know where my sister, Katerina Polotovskaya is? Surely we must try and inform her of these latest happenings... However, I think I probably would have been in a more comfortable state of mind not knowing of them myself..."

"Last I knew she was at Kremishendo, the Polotovski hunting lodge in Olonets. However its hard at any time to where your sister may be my prince. Honestly though, I believe its best to let her remain in a peaceful state of mind as long as we may, she will need to be in good mental health to be able to cope with the combined information of her father's illness and her aunt's possible regency."

Andrei sighed and looked out a nearby window to the cold and dark day outside.

"I suppose you are right... Come we should be going to Novgorod, last I knew Princess Mina was there, i'm sure she'll be wanting the news she is most probably to become the next ruler of Pskov, and we best be quick, the weather looks to be getting worse every day."

Andrei and Alexi slowly walked down the corridor away from the dreary window and the even more dreary bedchamber of the Grand Prince, Andrei gave a half chuckle...

"Alexi, are you ready for another Russian winter?"

 

[N Katsyev]

In the Polotovski Hall, Novgorod


Prince Andrei Polotovski and his sister, Katerina sat playing chess in front of the fire. A few minutes of silence, and move/counter-move proceed until they are interrupted by the enterance of Alexi Timkin. Katya gave a glance to the door and the man entering through it before turning her beautiful grey eyes to her brother...

"Check."

Andrei trying to hide his joy at being drawn away from the humiliating game turned to Alexi.

"Good friend, I assume you have spoken to the rider from Pskov?"

"I have dear Prince... and"

Katya interrupts Alexi...

"What word of my father?"

"My dear princess, he grows only more ready to depart. He is expected gone before the new year."

Katya nodded rather nonchalantly and turned back to the game which she was so close to winning and her brother now ignoring.

"I believe my father has earned this, I hope his remaining days are spent in peace. What have you heard of the Pommeranians? Any reply to our treaty from the house of Grief?"

"No reply as yet, there is war brewing in the Balkans, and the rumours reaching us talk of the catholic pope planning a crusade against the infidel. The Pommeranians have been close to the pope, i'm assuming they will aid this cause if it proves to be genuine."

"What of the Livonians and Polish?"

"My dear Katerina, no word has come from either, it seems the Polish court has gone quiet as late, I don't expect any reply from them anytime soon."

"And my aunt, the Princess Mina, soon to be regent she is on her way."

"Yes, I sent a messanger to her informing her to meet us here, I expect her any minute."

At this Alexi strode over to a couch near the fire to sit and await the future regent. Andrei not able to think of any more questions due in part to new thoughts of his aunt was forced to turn back to the game which he felt he inevitably must now lose. Just as Katya's lips opened to say "checkmate", the door opened once more. Two servants move to either side and Princess Mina entered. Andrei's king hit the board within a moment and he quickly got up to greet his aunt. Katya sighed and began putting away the chess set, Alexi had fallen asleep on the couch.

"Ah, beloved son and daughter of my poor brother, so good to see you both as always. Katya you are looking more beautiful than ever. I was told to expect our friend Alexi as well?"

Andrei kneeled before his aunt and kissed her hand. Katerina looked up with a slight smile to her aunt.

"Yes dear, Alexi has taken a bit of nap on the couch here, i'll rouse him."

Mina ran her fingers through Andrei's hair and walked by him to the table where Andrei and Katya had been playing and took a seat. Katya finally managed to awaken Alexi, who a rather bit drousy forced himself into composure soon enough. Andrei rose and walked toward the table himself, standing over the shoulder of his aunt.

"My lovely Princess, you must excuse me, I grow weary easily in my old age. Anyway, let me begin... As i'm sure you have heard, your brother, the Grand Prince Yuri is ill and is leaving us. Your other brother Prince Pavyel is to become Grand Prince when Yuri is gone. However Prince Pavyel has decided to travel abroad before he takes his position and rule of the country. In his place, he has declared you my dear Mina to be his regent until his return..."

Princess Mina gripped Andrei's hand which by now had found itself on her shoulder. Her striking grey eyes, those her niece Katya had inherited were lit with emotion. Katya looked to her aunt's young face, not much older than her own and felt she saw something of her own fate. This seventeen year old girl, by far younger than her brother Grand Prince Yuri II would now be in control of the fate of Pskov until the return of her other brother. Mina finally spoke...

"This is surely an honor, I think we all agree this is best, my brother Pavyel is dear but he is not fit... not now anyway... to be Grand Prince of Pskov. Please excuse me, but this news however honored has left me a little shocked, i've much to think about..."

Mina stood and motioned for one of her servants to bring her cloak. Andrei took the cloak from the servant to wrap around his aunt's shoulders. Katya watched with a tinge of dissapproval in her eyes and Alexi's view was no more positive, then he spoke.

"Princess, remain in Novgorod until Andrei and I give other word. Things are in motion right now in Pskov concerning your brother and its best we all stay here until times are more convenient for us."

Mina gave a slight smile to her nephew and turned her gaze on Alexi and nodded her head in affirmation, then she turned and gracefully walked out of the hall, her servants behind her, with the eyes of three very concerned and maybe a little afraid people watching her...

"I think I may have rathered a fool, than one so vengeful and potentially cruel as Mina... let us hope time has tamed her rage..."

Katya looked over at Alexi in full understanding of his words.

"Let us hope Pavyel returns quickly dear friend."

Andrei just stood in a bit of a trance, not hearing the words of his friend or sister, but still seeing the graceful and slender figure of his aunt.

 

[N Katsyev]

Somewhere in Northern Olonets, late October

"Grand Prince and brother, Yuri, we've arrived."

Yuri II as healthy as he had been that previous August, stepped off the sleigh into the light and newly fallen snow and looked about him at the sleepy little village, then took in a deep breath.

"Good Mikhail, brother of my departed wife, I feel peace here already... "

"Please, Yuri, you need not do this, Pskov still needs you..."

The garrison commander however saw that his words would have no effect on Yuri now, he had made up his mind. In this village in this small chapel, Yuri planned to live the rest of his days as a common man, a servant of god.

"My long time friend, we both loved your sister dearly, and I must stop my vain efforts at trying to run Pskov without her. The veche, popular demand would not let me abdicate, we both know that, especially not for my brother or as i've heard my sister as regent... But please respect my feelings, I wish to respect your sister's memory with hardwork and dedication, in something honest and straightforward, and most importantly in peace, I can do this here... I couldn't do it back in Pskov."

Mikhail embraced Yuri and kissed him.

"I shall miss you friend, have you the letter for your son?"

Yuri handed an folded bit of paper to Mikhail with a truly happy look on his face.

"Now my friend, you must excuse me. I must take up my work now, one does not survive in the provinces by being idle. I can see now, this moment what attracted my brother, Pavyel to the provinces, everything is so honest and straighforward. I hope to see you again come spring if your affairs allow."

With this the friends, commander and Grand Prince said their final partings and walked their seperate ways. Yuri to a chapel to live in peace and Mikhail to return to Novgorod and there to deliver the message that the "funeral" could begin and the official naming of Prince Pavyel as Grand Prince of Pskov and Novgorod. As the sleigh was drawn away from the small village coated in a thin layer of snow, Mikhail was feeling rather jealous of the man who gave up all rank and priveliage to live in peace with the memory of the woman he loved.

 

[N Katsyev]

Polotovski Hall, Novgorod

Mikhail Golytsin entered the hall where Andrei, Katya and Alexi had met Mina just a few days before. Prince Andrei was sitting at a small table in the corner reading through some of his father's writings.

"My Prince, it is done, your father has left us. I have here for you a letter from his hand."

Prince Andrei rose with a rather sombre expression and walked toward Mikhail to retrieve the note.

"I hope my father, the Grand Prince, rests in peace, I know I will miss him. I suppose this means we are off to Pskov and the veche hall?"

"Yes, I already met with Alexi Timkin earlier, he is in the process of informing the Novgorod veche of this tragedy now. As was planned we have told them that your father's funeral was a private matter among the family as a request of your father. All the Novgorod veche need do now is proclaim your uncle, Pavyel, Grand Prince of Novgorod, which they should do shortly, then we shall be off to Pskov so the veche there may do the same. The sleds are waiting us, Alexi shall meet us at the veche hall. Where is your sister, the princess Katerina? And of course the Princess-Regent Mina?"

"The Princesses Yakaterina and Mina Polotovskaya left for Pskov two days ago together."

"Good to hear, we shall all meet each other shortly then, now come we must make off."

As both men walked out of the Polotvski hall that snowy october day, it was felt by both that a new chapter had now opened for Pskov... and the pen rest in the delicate yet deadly hand of the Princess-Regent Mina.

 

[N Katsyev]

In the Great Hall of the Pskov Kremlin, A New Grand Prince is Named

Princess Mina sat in the seat of the Grand Prince, before here were Alexi Timkin, Prince Andrei Yuriyevitch Polotovski , Princess Yakaterina Yuriyevna Polotovskaya , Count Mikhail Golytsin, Eelya Monorov, Vasili Tenishev, and Nikolai Karamzin. Alexi Timkin stepped forward with two rolled documents and laid them in Mina's palms.

"These documents my Princess-regent name your brother, Pavyel Andreyevitch Polotovski as Grand Prince Pavyel Andreyevitch Polotovski of Pskov and Novgorod respectfully as per the appropriate document. You my Princess-regent have been named in each as regent-protector in your brother's absence."

Alexi Timkin stepped back with a bow beside Prince Andrei and Vasili Tensihev, representitive of the Pskov veche stepped forward.

"In the name of God and by the powers of the people and their veche of Pskov, Prince Pavyel Andreyevitch Polotovski is named Grand Prince Pavyel Andreyevitch Polotovksi and you Mina Andreyevna Polotovskaya are his Regent-Protector."

Vasili Tenishev stepped back with a bow and Eelya Monorov stepped forward.

"In the name of God and by the powers of the people and their veche of Novgorod, Prince Pavyel Andreyevitch Polotovski is named Grand Prince Pavyel Andreyevitch Polotovksi and you Mina Andreyevna Polotovskaya are his Regent-Protector."

Eelya Monorov stepped back with a bow and Mikhail Golytsin stepped forward.

"In the name of God and by the powers invested in me by the people and their veche of Pskov, the army and garrison of Pskov swear alleigance to Grand Prince Pavyel Andreyevitch Polotovski and his Regent-protector Princess-regent Mina Andreyevna Polotovskaya in his abscense."

Mikhail Golytsin stepped back with a bow and Nikolai Karamzin stepped forward.

"In the name of God and by the powers invested in me by the previous Grand Prince Yuri II Andreyevitch Polotovski, I swear alleigance to Grand Prince Pavyel Andreyevitch Polotovksi and for his Regent-Protector Princess-regent Mina Andreyevna Polotovskaya in his abscence, for the servitors."

Nikolai Karamzin stepped back with a bow. Princess-regent Mina looked over the assembly carefully. As they looked upon the young beauty that sat upon the high seat. Finally she spoke.

"My friends, family and countrymen you are dismissed. Mikhail Golytsin, Nikolai Karamzin, Alexi Timkin and my dear niece Katya, I wish you to meet with me in private later this evening, I shall send word to you when the time is at hand. There is much work to do... "

As the assembly slowly filtered out of the great hall, leaving the princess-regent behind, a feeling of awe was shared by all. Awe at the commanding presence of that slender frame that they felt that day, and maybe even a tinge of fear at what ideas that seductively beautiful head held in store for Pskov, a new era had indeed begun.

 

[N Katsyev]

Secret Meeting Within the Pskov Kremlin

Princess-Regent Mina threw open a map on a table before Mikhail Golytsin, Nikolai Karamzin , and Katerina . The map was the same one shown Grand Prince Yuri II by Eelya Monorov.

"The best thing my brother Yuri accomplished before he left us was the Proclomation of Claims. If we do not wish for our people to lose their voice through the veche, then we must become strong enough to be able to oppose Moscow. My brother Yuri believed as I do that Moscovy is nothing more than yet another Khanate ready to make us tribute-paying pawns at her whim, the only differece is that the Khan in Moscow claims the line of Riurik and is christian, but don't be fooled he is simply a successor to the Golden Horde."

The group watched almost in disbelief a whole new side appear out of Mina they had never seen before... She continued...

"However Moscovy while chief among, is not alone out of states that are potential enemies and who occupy land belonging rightfully to Pskov. There are the Pommeranians, and more presently, the Teutonic Order, The Kingdom of Latvia who has recently insulted us by after so many months not responding to our friendly envoy."

Mikhail Golystin spoke up...

"You are suggesting we declare war on the Kingdom of Latvia my princess?"

Katya sat down in a corner, taking the entire scene in. Mina raised her eyes to Mikhail with a smile playing at the corner of her lips.

"My dear commander, we won't have to. The people of Kexholm are in the majority Orthodox christians, like us. The people of Kexholm share our customs and culture, they are Russian and Finno-Ugric as is much of our territory. The people of Kexholm are uneasy about being ruled by Catholic zealots at best. However now is not the best of times, the Teutonic Order is changing from the inside, creating instability, they recently had a monarch change. Not to say that the Teutonic Order ever gave the people of Kexholm a second thought anyway after their acquisition of the province. The people of Kexholm are dry kindling, and we my comrades have the flame, we just need to give them a light, and the fires of rebellion will bring Kexholm right to us. We offer them their own veche and thereby freedom, along with a stable state that is culturally and religiously more compatible. If the Kingdom of Latvia then decides after the people of Kexholm, whom they have no border with, join our banner that they wish war upon us, then they shall have it."

Nikolai Karamzin could not help but smile at this thought, it was brilliant. Katya was more than intereted and Mikhail Golytsin sat deep in thought before speaking.

"We must equip them, send them weapons and volunteers to direct the revolt. We must find the heads of the local communities and make seperate alliances, so just in case some are loyalists to the Teutons they will be forced into the light by their comrades and we can take care of them. We also need an envoy, someone they can trust and relate with to win them to our cause."

"I will be the envoy Mikhail, Nikolai will send a group of the servitors to escort me. The people of Kexholm will be asked to join in freedom to Pskov by the Princess-Regent of Pskov herself. Mikhail, you need to prepare the army for possible war with the Latvians, I do hope however that they recognize that this is the will of the people, and they are no longer welcome in Mother Russia..."

 

[N Katsyev]

The Village

[color=orange-red]A small village in Novgorod Province[/color]

Fydor Krupski huffed and puffed as he hurriedly trudged through the snow toward the home of Starosta Vasili. He pulled open the gate and made his way under the roof overhang and knocked on the sturdy wooden door. Vasili opened the door and squinted a bit at the natural light. Fydor began to inform him...

"Starosta Vasili, riders from Pskov have just arrived. Grand Prince Yuri II is dead and has been replaced by his brother, Pavyel, however Pavyel is abroad and his sister, Mina is acting as Princess-Regent. However Mina has called for inspection of the armed forces. It turns out that the Oblenski boy deserted and the village needs to offer a replacement... Who do we send?"

Starosta Vasili scratched his chin under his beard, still squinting but keeping one eye on Fydor.

"Gah, well remind me later to re-distribute a portion of the Oblenski grain ration among other households, they must be punished for this shame on the community. Secondly I believe the Muritsevs are up next to give a recruit, I believe the patriarch of the family is away to Novgorod, but the mother should be there... And do be quick Fydor, i'm sure the riders are in a hurry."

Fydor nodded and affirmed and trudged away from the home of the Starosta. He trudged quickly across the village proper and made his way up to the Muritsev home. His knock was greeted by the eyes of a short plump peasant woman.

"What'll you be needing today Fydor?"

Fydor answered, "Your son Boris is next up for recruitment, he must leave today, now with these riders for the army."

The peasant woman averted her eyes for a moment, service in the army could almost be considered a life sentence... Of current it was 20 years, most years in peace the army would be allowed to return home in late autumn and the harvest for the winter and stay through early spring to help with the planting, but then there was of course the chance of death in combat. Some men just never returned home at all, the army was the one place where the social hierarchy could actually become greyed. However the peasant woman felt comfortable with all this, this is just what was done, she would miss her boy, but knew he would probably have a better life now...

"Hold a minute Fydor i'll need to go fetch him, lousy worm. He is dreadfully lazy you know, hopefully the army will get that out of him."

The woman left the door for a minute and inside could be heard...

"Boris! Boris where are you!? Boris! There you are Boris, you lazy dog! Get up, get up! C'mon boy you are joining the army today! Yes, yes now! Gah, lazy dog, come go with Fydor."

Boris half-awake and half-dressed stood with a silly grin on his face with his mother in the doorway. Fydor sighed and shrugged.

"Come Boris, we must be off, you'll no doubt be back in a couple weeks, or at the latest spring or autumn next year."

Boris shrugged and kissed his mother and headed out the door behind Fydor, struggling to better wear his clothes.

"So Fydor, what am I to do in the army?"

Fydor raised his hands in mock submission.

"Blessed be the father if I know, here, take this."

Fydor handed the Boris a worn looking dagger.

"What is this for Fydor?"

"In case your spear breaks Boris, you'll need something. The green ones like you off the farm they don't give much to, they don't trust you enough till after you've been there a while to give you proper equipment."

Boris and Fydor slowly made their way over to the stable where the riders waited. Boris was getting the unique opportunity of leaving the community without incurring the ill-will of the community. A new life was beginning...

 

[von Streusser]

A letter for the Grand Prince is sent back with his messengers.

"Noble Grand Prince Pavyel Polotovski,

We were most delighted to receive your letter. It is rare that rulers of such great Orthodox realms as Pskov come to visit our humble lands. We are most eager to receive you and your retinue, and look forward to meeting you in person.

We shall prepare Iasi suitably for your arrival.

Sincerely,
Ilias I
Stefan II
Voivodes of Moldavia"

 

[N Katsyev]

[color=orange-red]Prince Andrey Polotovski's Chambers, Pskov Kremlin [/color]

Prince Andrey sat by one of his windows, staring out over the frozen Pskova river when he heard a knock at his door.

"Come in!"

Mikhail Golitsyn and Alexi Timkin entered the room and closed the door behind them. They then proceeded over to a couch near the prince at the Prince's motion.

"Any word from Mina?

"The Princess-Regent in her last communication a couple days ago was on her way back, her words were confident, but you already know of this."

"The Grand Prince Pavyel is heading out of Kiev, he is hoping to stay in Moldavia for a time. Orthodox brothers, he should be welcome there, however with all that is going on in the Balkans i'm not sure if he wishes to be there much longer."

Alexi Timkin had already begun to doze on the couch and Prince Andrey had a servant bring the old man a blanket. After a few minutes of silence, Andrey spoke up again.

"So i'm assuming still no reply from Pommern, Mina will not be pleased to say the least."

Mikhail chuckled and roused a smile from Andrey.

"After trudging around in the harshness of winter, dealing with the most ignorant of peasants, the stresses of village diplomacy, and returning with the news of the Pommern treaty expiring... no i'm sure the Princess will not be so pleasant."

 

[N Katsyev]

Back from Kexholm, Pskov Kremlin, January 1439

Its interesting how knowledge can be past from person to person without word or even in some cases gesture at all... its just a feeling that brings with it meaning, like a wave. Such was the arrival home of Princess-Regent Mina Polotovski . Preceeding the Princess' path was a wave of just such knowledge bringing with it utter silence and uncertainty. All had heard rumours, and it was no secret that Mina had tossed an animal or two off the Kremlin walls in fury. In the conditions and under the stress the Princess-Regent had exposed herself to, nothing but good knews could keep her in good spirits. However as Mina passed various peoples as she made her way to the Great Hall, they saw a face set in stone, no emotion. From her appearance which was rather disheveld one would think her exhausted, yet she walked with dignified grace in a consistent manner.

Finally entering the Great Hall she walked straight toward the great chair, six sturdy servitors trailed her to her seat and when she sat, they lined three on either side of her. The main doors were closed at her command and the hall was empty aside from herself and the six warriors. Then the pit-pat of feet could be heard coming in from one of the side corridors, the doors burst open and Prince Andrey, alerted by now of the Princess' return came forth, sword hanging from his waist.

"Dear Mina, you've returned to us." Prince Andrey smiled and strode quickly up to the chair where Mina sat. He took her hand and pressed it to his lips, but the skin was cold and rigid, yet he could feel the blood running within it. Andrey looked up to the pretty, young eyes of his aunt, not knowing quite what to say next. Finally the stone of Mina's face began to crumble before his eyes a bit of a smile began to play on her lips and her eyes seemd to light up, she leaned forward and embraced her older nephew lightly and finally slouched back in the chair.

"Dear Prince, we have been most successful I believe, many in Kexholm are ready to break from their current imprisonment... others are still somewhat unsure, easily to be convinced by bribes I believe, a remote couple seem to be for the most part loyal to the knights but they will change when they see their comrades taking up arms against the oppressor... and if they don't, well may God help them."

Andrey's fear of Mina's wrath relieved stepped down from before her chair and clapped.

"This is wonderful news, I should go wake Alexi, what of the Teutonic garrison in Kexholm?"

Mina smiled more and looked meaningfully toward one of the servitors. The servitor grinned and looked over to Alexi.

"Low supplies, low morale, undermanned. Remember that the Teutons can supply them neither by direct land connection or by sea. They will capitulate at the first sign of serious threat, what more can you expect of Germans?"

The servants, court attendants, boyars and veche councilors all afraid of what may come in these moments, now heard laughter coming from the Great Hall. It was reassuring to say the least, but what victory could have brought such light to such a situation? Surely one of importance and coming to fruition soon...