Of course, here it is, from the year 1112. Hispania is already bashing France and Genoa.
My greatest worry is the Caliphate: it is enormous!
My greatest worry is the Caliphate: it is enormous!
Vindicatio Vasconum: the rise of House Ximena
- Thread starter NeoAC
- Start date
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Thanks a lot - I think you're right to worry about the Caliph. Having them all the way over in Catharge is rather perturbing, though I wouldn't imagine you'll be fighting them right away.
Better not. The idea was to stop the Almoravid and Malian nuisance, not to mount a full-scale invasion. It could be, if I manage the other Emperors to answer my call, but it would be a risky gambit. Let's hope the Caliph won't go all Jihad over me.
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Antso IV (VII)
The late years of a legend
1111-1122
Iruñea
Summer of 1111
"My generation is dead by now. I don't understand why God wants me to live through this. Maybe... Maybe it's Purgatory before Hell."
But Emperor Antso couldn't express his thoughts aloud. He was 71 already and his body felt as if made of brittle glass, but his mind was as clear as ever. Or maybe not, because he was having all sorts of strange dreams of the future. Dreams of his House's flag over the tallest castles of Europe. Dreams of Basque warriors destroying the Heathen's very core.
His Marshall's voice bring Emperor Antso back to reality. The
"We are meeting resistance, as expected. We didn't lose any battles. The only nagging problem is..."
Antso interrupted him.
"That the occupied lands are really strongly fortified. The sieges take long to finish."
"Yes, my Emperor. I am sorry to report it..."
Antso looked puzzled, even amused.
"Sorry?"
He smiled. More than forty five years of rule suddenly banished. He saw himself again as a miserable King of a miserable Kingdom.
"You are young and you are used to the might of Hispania, Marshall. Don't apologize. You are doing very well, in fact. But I have a new job for you."
Everyone awaited. A new attack against the Heathens?
"My youngest son Gartzia, my Chancellor, managed to bring some substance for our northern claims over Dax, giving us enough ground to declare war against the rebellious Duke of Gascogne"
Antso handed the Marshall the documents.
"You have the Royal Treasure at your disposal. Hire some mercenaries and bring all the Basque lands under our rule."
The Marshall bowed. It would be a lot easier to bring Gascogne down.
"Give me a couple of years, your Imperial Majesty."
"Remember. My successor, at least, must be able to bathe at the waters of the Garonne river."
The Marshall proved his worth. Two years later, the last Basque county outside the control of Hispania fell.
Iruñea
1116
The ruler of Hispania smiled broadly. According to reports coming from his son, King Eneko, the entire Ebro Valley spoke Basque already and it was entirely possible for merchant speaking that language to travel from the Mediterranean Sea feeling as home all the way. Even a county of Africa has gone Basque.
Antso nodded to himself. The little provincial city of Iruñea would soon become a cultural center of the first order, with a Cathedral to match. At least, he could point out that for a reduced time in Purgatory.
Paris
1116
Spring was being merciful that year, King Henri II of France reflected. Maybe because nothing else was being merciful at him.
He had a magnificent castle and rich lands centered around Ille-de-France. That was pretty much what he had at the time with almost every major vassal following the advice of the Holy Father and trying to bring down the Excommunicated King.
He felt his blood boil. How was that possible? He, the most powerful King of Europe, only surpassed by the Kaiser and the Basileus and equal in power to his uncle Antso, the Emperor of Hispania.
Hispania. He could defeat the smallest Empire with superior manpower and better equipment. But only if it were a King against Emperor war.
He sighted. His uncle was really old. Maybe the next Emperor would be lazy or stupid enough to forget about the other claim that would still hold after the end of the war. King Henri called for his Chancellor and sent a proposal to Iruñea.
Rome
1118
The Holy Father, Nicholas III, looked upon Europe with preoccupation for years. His calls for a new Crusade had only been answered by Emperor Antso of Hispania and the Pope didn't know why. After much thinking and praying, and listening to Bernard of Clairboux, a truly wise man that had already started a strong reform inside the Cistersian Order, he was finally illuminated. The lay powers needed an example. Someone by their side fighting for the Cross against the Heathens.
A Warrior Order would be created.
The pauperes commilitones Christi Templique Salomonici, the Knights Templar, were born.
From Iruñea, Antso rejoiced. Although feeling too old to start a new Holy War himself, the next Emperor of Hispania could use the help for more expansions.
For other five years, Hispania fought for her lands. Genoa ceded most of it's counties. Everything looked fine until Emperor Antso fell ill and he was struck by tragedy, all at once.
King Eneko, his beloved son, died.
Even if he was feeling worse as days passed, Antso took his time to select a suitable heir. He looked among his male relatives, and he was surprised by the most respected and capable of them.
Knowing that death has a better grip on him than life, he called for his remaining sons, grandsons, and relatives. He talked to them one by one. He was put down by the ones already wearing a Crown but they, unsurprisingly, brought forth the another candidate he already thought of. He could not but feel proud of his descendants.
At last, he called for the son of his long dead brother. The one that briefly came back to his Court before dying. The entire Court was here, awaiting the final decision.
"My dear Piñolo. You are a man of skill and prestige. I think that you deserve much more than being remembered as the son of an unsuccessful rebel."
"Are you going to give me Naiara in your will?"
Piñolo Ximeno was really surprised. Lands? He worked as a spymaster and was well respected, but he gave up hopes for a title long before.
"Yes, Naiara will be yours. Alongside the Counties of Nafarroa, Dax and Burgos."
The new Chancellor of the Emperor quietly took notes while trying, as many courtiers, to hide the amusement he felt seeing Piñolo's face change.
"The Duchy of Navarra, the Kingdom and, finally... The Empire of Hispania. I hereby name you my Heir."
"But..."
He couldn't finish the phrase. King Paskoal of Castille, his cousin, stepped forward.
"I recognize this man as the rightful Heir."
After the most powerful of the Empire's vassal formally recognized him, no one dared to defy Antso's decision.
Two months later, Antso called his heir to his side. Words were not necessary anymore. Just the state of the Emperor's body said it all.
"It's your turn, Piñolo. Remember, make peace with the Holy Father."
Antso's eyes shift out of focus. He could hear voices. The voices of his long gone brothers and sisters, the voice of his beloved wife and of his deceased sons, all calling from him. Then, he could see them. Smiling and waiting for him. He reached out and they welcomed him with a warm embrace.
The late years of a legend
1111-1122
Iruñea
Summer of 1111
"My generation is dead by now. I don't understand why God wants me to live through this. Maybe... Maybe it's Purgatory before Hell."
But Emperor Antso couldn't express his thoughts aloud. He was 71 already and his body felt as if made of brittle glass, but his mind was as clear as ever. Or maybe not, because he was having all sorts of strange dreams of the future. Dreams of his House's flag over the tallest castles of Europe. Dreams of Basque warriors destroying the Heathen's very core.
His Marshall's voice bring Emperor Antso back to reality. The
"We are meeting resistance, as expected. We didn't lose any battles. The only nagging problem is..."
Antso interrupted him.
"That the occupied lands are really strongly fortified. The sieges take long to finish."
"Yes, my Emperor. I am sorry to report it..."
Antso looked puzzled, even amused.
"Sorry?"
He smiled. More than forty five years of rule suddenly banished. He saw himself again as a miserable King of a miserable Kingdom.
"You are young and you are used to the might of Hispania, Marshall. Don't apologize. You are doing very well, in fact. But I have a new job for you."
Everyone awaited. A new attack against the Heathens?
"My youngest son Gartzia, my Chancellor, managed to bring some substance for our northern claims over Dax, giving us enough ground to declare war against the rebellious Duke of Gascogne"
Antso handed the Marshall the documents.
"You have the Royal Treasure at your disposal. Hire some mercenaries and bring all the Basque lands under our rule."
The Marshall bowed. It would be a lot easier to bring Gascogne down.
"Give me a couple of years, your Imperial Majesty."
"Remember. My successor, at least, must be able to bathe at the waters of the Garonne river."
The Marshall proved his worth. Two years later, the last Basque county outside the control of Hispania fell.
Iruñea
1116
The ruler of Hispania smiled broadly. According to reports coming from his son, King Eneko, the entire Ebro Valley spoke Basque already and it was entirely possible for merchant speaking that language to travel from the Mediterranean Sea feeling as home all the way. Even a county of Africa has gone Basque.
Antso nodded to himself. The little provincial city of Iruñea would soon become a cultural center of the first order, with a Cathedral to match. At least, he could point out that for a reduced time in Purgatory.
Paris
1116
Spring was being merciful that year, King Henri II of France reflected. Maybe because nothing else was being merciful at him.
He had a magnificent castle and rich lands centered around Ille-de-France. That was pretty much what he had at the time with almost every major vassal following the advice of the Holy Father and trying to bring down the Excommunicated King.
He felt his blood boil. How was that possible? He, the most powerful King of Europe, only surpassed by the Kaiser and the Basileus and equal in power to his uncle Antso, the Emperor of Hispania.
Hispania. He could defeat the smallest Empire with superior manpower and better equipment. But only if it were a King against Emperor war.
He sighted. His uncle was really old. Maybe the next Emperor would be lazy or stupid enough to forget about the other claim that would still hold after the end of the war. King Henri called for his Chancellor and sent a proposal to Iruñea.
Rome
1118
The Holy Father, Nicholas III, looked upon Europe with preoccupation for years. His calls for a new Crusade had only been answered by Emperor Antso of Hispania and the Pope didn't know why. After much thinking and praying, and listening to Bernard of Clairboux, a truly wise man that had already started a strong reform inside the Cistersian Order, he was finally illuminated. The lay powers needed an example. Someone by their side fighting for the Cross against the Heathens.
A Warrior Order would be created.
The pauperes commilitones Christi Templique Salomonici, the Knights Templar, were born.
From Iruñea, Antso rejoiced. Although feeling too old to start a new Holy War himself, the next Emperor of Hispania could use the help for more expansions.
For other five years, Hispania fought for her lands. Genoa ceded most of it's counties. Everything looked fine until Emperor Antso fell ill and he was struck by tragedy, all at once.
King Eneko, his beloved son, died.
Even if he was feeling worse as days passed, Antso took his time to select a suitable heir. He looked among his male relatives, and he was surprised by the most respected and capable of them.
Knowing that death has a better grip on him than life, he called for his remaining sons, grandsons, and relatives. He talked to them one by one. He was put down by the ones already wearing a Crown but they, unsurprisingly, brought forth the another candidate he already thought of. He could not but feel proud of his descendants.
At last, he called for the son of his long dead brother. The one that briefly came back to his Court before dying. The entire Court was here, awaiting the final decision.
"My dear Piñolo. You are a man of skill and prestige. I think that you deserve much more than being remembered as the son of an unsuccessful rebel."
"Are you going to give me Naiara in your will?"
Piñolo Ximeno was really surprised. Lands? He worked as a spymaster and was well respected, but he gave up hopes for a title long before.
"Yes, Naiara will be yours. Alongside the Counties of Nafarroa, Dax and Burgos."
The new Chancellor of the Emperor quietly took notes while trying, as many courtiers, to hide the amusement he felt seeing Piñolo's face change.
"The Duchy of Navarra, the Kingdom and, finally... The Empire of Hispania. I hereby name you my Heir."
"But..."
He couldn't finish the phrase. King Paskoal of Castille, his cousin, stepped forward.
"I recognize this man as the rightful Heir."
After the most powerful of the Empire's vassal formally recognized him, no one dared to defy Antso's decision.
Two months later, Antso called his heir to his side. Words were not necessary anymore. Just the state of the Emperor's body said it all.
"It's your turn, Piñolo. Remember, make peace with the Holy Father."
Antso's eyes shift out of focus. He could hear voices. The voices of his long gone brothers and sisters, the voice of his beloved wife and of his deceased sons, all calling from him. Then, he could see them. Smiling and waiting for him. He reached out and they welcomed him with a warm embrace.
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A touching update - sad to see Antso go, though Piñolo promises to be a good ruler.
I'm looking forward to more campaigns against France - being able to bathe in the Garonne would be nice indeed.
I'm looking forward to more campaigns against France - being able to bathe in the Garonne would be nice indeed.
I haven't commented in a while, and I return to find that Antso IV is still on the throne! Or was, at least. The bloke just kept going and going, without turning infirm or disabled. Well, for a Ximena, living a long and fruitful life is certainly better than getting murdered by one of your scheming brother-kings who stand to inherit from your death. Or, even more preferably, to be the one perpetrating the murders. It would be pretty amazing luck if you managed to avoid the Kinslayer trait even after so many successful hits.
What are your succession laws? Did you switch to elective in order to nominate your brother's son as the heir? But I seem to gather that you handed your King titles (except Navarra) to your son, and they got split up among his kids when he unexpectedly predeceased his dad, which meant that you must have still been running gavelkind. Hmm ... I wonder why an unlanded, relatively mediocre (albeit virtuous) nobody was picked in preference to his peers.
What are your succession laws? Did you switch to elective in order to nominate your brother's son as the heir? But I seem to gather that you handed your King titles (except Navarra) to your son, and they got split up among his kids when he unexpectedly predeceased his dad, which meant that you must have still been running gavelkind. Hmm ... I wonder why an unlanded, relatively mediocre (albeit virtuous) nobody was picked in preference to his peers.
Navarra and Hispania are elective. No prolem with Navarra until some of the Duchies from the cconquered lands becomes assimilated, but Hispania is another history.
Well, yes, Eneko suspiciously kept dying (natural causes, ha!) and his titles got split among his sons because Castille and the other Kingdoms have the Gavelkind law.
Of course, within months, almost every son of Eneko disappeared and the remaining two got the Kinslayer trait, because, compared to Piñolo, they were nobodies at scheming. As a result, they are really poorly regarded and it was next to impossible to convince my other vassals to back their claims to the Empire. The vassals kept nominating this Piñolo, a nobody of medium age, son of a traitor. So, the Empire and at least one county were his either I liked it or not.
I thought that, his worst problem being that he is a cynical and with his other positive traits probably helping for an easy rule, he could as well have the whole batch and become the next Emperor, making a grand-grandson of Antso his heir, one that looked the best suited to the task and was going to inherit a strong Kingdom to start with.
Well, yes, Eneko suspiciously kept dying (natural causes, ha!) and his titles got split among his sons because Castille and the other Kingdoms have the Gavelkind law.
Of course, within months, almost every son of Eneko disappeared and the remaining two got the Kinslayer trait, because, compared to Piñolo, they were nobodies at scheming. As a result, they are really poorly regarded and it was next to impossible to convince my other vassals to back their claims to the Empire. The vassals kept nominating this Piñolo, a nobody of medium age, son of a traitor. So, the Empire and at least one county were his either I liked it or not.
I thought that, his worst problem being that he is a cynical and with his other positive traits probably helping for an easy rule, he could as well have the whole batch and become the next Emperor, making a grand-grandson of Antso his heir, one that looked the best suited to the task and was going to inherit a strong Kingdom to start with.
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Piñolo I (I)
Crisis and determination
1122-1129
Emperor Piñolo was a virtuous man. That didn't mean, of course, that he would renounce the lands that belonged to Hispania.
As soon as he was crowned, he assembled the Council and made a very simple, yet tricky, question.
"Genoa or France?"
His Chancellor, a distant relative of him called Antso, cleared his throat and looked around before tentatively answering.
"Your Imperial Majesty..."
"Emperor, for goodness sake! I am not one of those pampered Germans or Greeks"
"My Emperor, you surely realize that there are still tensions inside the Empire. It's most important to stabilize our already vast holdings before further expansions."
"And how do you expect me to win my vassals' respect if I am not going to war to claim what it's rightfully mine. Again. Genoa or France."
The Chancellor sighed.
"Genoa, my Emperor. They are a lot weaker than the Kingdom of France."
"Then send them a letter with my compliments... and our declaration of war."
"Yes, my Emperor."
The first war against Genoa was a brief one. Without the manpower to protect her overseas holdings, the Most Serene Republic of Genoa capitulated.
Emboldened by this success, Piñolo started to plot more expansions through Holy Wars against the Heathens of Northern Africa.
Then, the Civil War erupted.
"My Emperor!"
The sight of Chancellor Antso running past the guards and storming the Imperial Room was quite a funny one, but his face took most of the humor of the situation off.
"My Emperor! Duke Monio and other southern vassals had declared war for their independence. They are strong and they could hold for years."
"So be it. Prepare our troops and continue our assault against the Heathens."
"My Emperor, maybe we should try to negotiate."
"No, Chancellor. Let the world know, we won't forfeit even an inch of our lands!"
Six years passed. Thousands of good men died in the pointless war and the bright news were very few, so when Piñolo knew of the cultural shift of the peasants on Burgos, he rejoiced.
At the end, in the year 1129, the rebels capitulated and were imprisoned by Piñolo.
"And now... I want every able-bodied man ready to the offensive. This time, we won't stop until we reach the very southernmost point of Heathen dominance."
Few thought that it would be possible to entirely wipe Muslim power from Northern and Central Africa. But it would be done.
Crisis and determination
1122-1129
Emperor Piñolo was a virtuous man. That didn't mean, of course, that he would renounce the lands that belonged to Hispania.
As soon as he was crowned, he assembled the Council and made a very simple, yet tricky, question.
"Genoa or France?"
His Chancellor, a distant relative of him called Antso, cleared his throat and looked around before tentatively answering.
"Your Imperial Majesty..."
"Emperor, for goodness sake! I am not one of those pampered Germans or Greeks"
"My Emperor, you surely realize that there are still tensions inside the Empire. It's most important to stabilize our already vast holdings before further expansions."
"And how do you expect me to win my vassals' respect if I am not going to war to claim what it's rightfully mine. Again. Genoa or France."
The Chancellor sighed.
"Genoa, my Emperor. They are a lot weaker than the Kingdom of France."
"Then send them a letter with my compliments... and our declaration of war."
"Yes, my Emperor."
The first war against Genoa was a brief one. Without the manpower to protect her overseas holdings, the Most Serene Republic of Genoa capitulated.
Emboldened by this success, Piñolo started to plot more expansions through Holy Wars against the Heathens of Northern Africa.
Then, the Civil War erupted.
"My Emperor!"
The sight of Chancellor Antso running past the guards and storming the Imperial Room was quite a funny one, but his face took most of the humor of the situation off.
"My Emperor! Duke Monio and other southern vassals had declared war for their independence. They are strong and they could hold for years."
"So be it. Prepare our troops and continue our assault against the Heathens."
"My Emperor, maybe we should try to negotiate."
"No, Chancellor. Let the world know, we won't forfeit even an inch of our lands!"
Six years passed. Thousands of good men died in the pointless war and the bright news were very few, so when Piñolo knew of the cultural shift of the peasants on Burgos, he rejoiced.
At the end, in the year 1129, the rebels capitulated and were imprisoned by Piñolo.
"And now... I want every able-bodied man ready to the offensive. This time, we won't stop until we reach the very southernmost point of Heathen dominance."
Few thought that it would be possible to entirely wipe Muslim power from Northern and Central Africa. But it would be done.
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You might want to look at splitting Galicia and Castille up - having that big a vassal kingdom could be tricky if things ten sour.
Not entirely sure about Piñolo yet - I'll reserve my judgment. Ankther enjoyable update, nonetheless.
Not entirely sure about Piñolo yet - I'll reserve my judgment. Ankther enjoyable update, nonetheless.
@DensleyBlair
In fact, it split spontaneously. Spontaneous, as in blatant assassination from some other branch of the family that Piñolo vanished after the deed.
@UristMcMiner
Thank you.
In fact, it split spontaneously. Spontaneous, as in blatant assassination from some other branch of the family that Piñolo vanished after the deed.
@UristMcMiner
Thank you.
I wonder why 4 provinces decided to rebel against you. How strong could they possibly be against the might of (almost) all Iberia? Have fun revoking them and appointing properly Basque overlords. And there's still a little speck of something in the Balearic isles ... is that Aragon? Just wipe them out as an afterthought.
Ah, Gavelkind. The best law for everyone except you to have =P If you never raise crown authority to High, they'll stay with it forever. Saved me lots of times vs rebellious vassals.
Ah, Gavelkind. The best law for everyone except you to have =P If you never raise crown authority to High, they'll stay with it forever. Saved me lots of times vs rebellious vassals.
I think that Piñolo was not shiny enough for their tastes. They made a nice bounty, of course, enough to improve the counties under direct Imperial rule an to create some new Kingdoms to be Hispania's vassals.
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Piñolo I (II)
The North African Crusade begins
1129-1134
1129
Somewhere on North Africa
According to legend, it was that point from where the invading army of the Umayyad Caliphate started the invasion of Hispania. The conflict between Visigoths and Umayyad lead to the formation of the Norther Iberian Kigndoms, Navarra among them.
The Visigoths were gone, their last vestiges assimilated into the blood of the Ximena and the Muslims were about to be taught a harsh lesson.
Emperor Piñolo lead the army personally. Wearing a heavy armor with the blazon of his House and the Seals of both Hispania and Navarra, he outrun many younger men, belying his age.
"Is everything ready, Marshall Musa?"
The Catholic zealot of Arabian origin(*) bowed.
"The Sheiks are revolting against the Almoravid Sultan, an heretic even among his own. With the help of Lord Above and Virgin Mary, we shall soon be victorious!"
The Emperor smiled. Of course, he was counting on His Divine Intervention, through the strong hand of the Templar Knights. He was not disappointed.
"Send the messages."
With the chaos among the Heathens increasing, the first capitulation took place the next year.
Followed by bigger advances in 1931
Finally, two years later, the first major milestone of the Crusade was reached.
Iruñea
August, 1134
Emperor Piñolo was growing impatient with age. And sometimes, he had good motives to do so.
"The Genovese! Always the Genovese! Not only they refused to come to our aid when we were fighting the infidels, but they blatantly try to sow discontent among my vassals. We had enough of these petty merchants! Chancellor!"
"Yes, my Emperor?"
"Send a messenger to Genoa. We shall recover our lands."
The Court Chaplain, a Lope from Najera, dared interrupt the Emperor.
"My Emperor, weren't you to start a war against Malian infidels?"
"Of course."
The Chaplain looked puzzled.
"How?"
"We are perfectly capable of fighting a two-front war."
(*) I don't know how or why this lowborn wound up in Hispania. I only know that the game is fairly generous, giving me some of the best soldiers available. He was casually converted by one of my vassals and he later became a Zealot. Of course, I invited him to my Court when I saw that he had the best military stats since el Cid.
The North African Crusade begins
1129-1134
1129
Somewhere on North Africa
According to legend, it was that point from where the invading army of the Umayyad Caliphate started the invasion of Hispania. The conflict between Visigoths and Umayyad lead to the formation of the Norther Iberian Kigndoms, Navarra among them.
The Visigoths were gone, their last vestiges assimilated into the blood of the Ximena and the Muslims were about to be taught a harsh lesson.
Emperor Piñolo lead the army personally. Wearing a heavy armor with the blazon of his House and the Seals of both Hispania and Navarra, he outrun many younger men, belying his age.
"Is everything ready, Marshall Musa?"
The Catholic zealot of Arabian origin(*) bowed.
"The Sheiks are revolting against the Almoravid Sultan, an heretic even among his own. With the help of Lord Above and Virgin Mary, we shall soon be victorious!"
The Emperor smiled. Of course, he was counting on His Divine Intervention, through the strong hand of the Templar Knights. He was not disappointed.
"Send the messages."
With the chaos among the Heathens increasing, the first capitulation took place the next year.
Followed by bigger advances in 1931
Finally, two years later, the first major milestone of the Crusade was reached.
Iruñea
August, 1134
Emperor Piñolo was growing impatient with age. And sometimes, he had good motives to do so.
"The Genovese! Always the Genovese! Not only they refused to come to our aid when we were fighting the infidels, but they blatantly try to sow discontent among my vassals. We had enough of these petty merchants! Chancellor!"
"Yes, my Emperor?"
"Send a messenger to Genoa. We shall recover our lands."
The Court Chaplain, a Lope from Najera, dared interrupt the Emperor.
"My Emperor, weren't you to start a war against Malian infidels?"
"Of course."
The Chaplain looked puzzled.
"How?"
"We are perfectly capable of fighting a two-front war."
(*) I don't know how or why this lowborn wound up in Hispania. I only know that the game is fairly generous, giving me some of the best soldiers available. He was casually converted by one of my vassals and he later became a Zealot. Of course, I invited him to my Court when I saw that he had the best military stats since el Cid.
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Looks like you're set for some action packed updates to come. I'm looking forward to seeing those.
Nicely done, as ever.
Nicely done, as ever.
Piñolo I (III)
No limit
1134-1142
Iruñea
1134
Sitting in his throne while trying to ignore the bone pains that come with his age, Emperor Piñolo was anything but bored by his Council. He couldn't shake the feeling that his uncle's small council at the beginning as ruler of the small Kingdom of Navarra, with all its petty quarrels and small bets, was a lot more interesting than the high politics discussed there.
He cleared his throat.
"So, are you telling me that we should create more Kingdom titles to better administrate our vast domains. I could tell you that. That's why I bestowed the Mauritanian Crown over the shoulders of my own son. But if you think that it would help stopping more stupid rebellions, let it be."
The Chancellor bowed and hid a smile. Boring the Emperor was the best way to have things done.
Meanwhile, the war against Genoa was progressing at better pace than the painstaking advance through the sands of Sahara. It only took a year to occupy Mallorca and to convince the Doge that it was his best interest to give it to its rightful owner.
Iruñea
1137
With the African front all but stalled by the intervention of the Assassins, Piñolo look north and what he saw pleased him. The Duke of Gascogne was revolting against the French King, making the long-awaited conquest of Bearn a feasible task for the reduced forces Hispania could field at the time.
As the Emperor anticipated, the pressure proved to be to great for the Duke.
It was not clear if the Occitans or the Franks were really aware of the extent of Piñolo's plan, but he continued with it anyway. Next time, with the African fronts definitely closed, he probably would be able to attack without waiting for a foolish revolt by the southern Dukes.
Iruñea
1139
By that ime, Mali was, at last, occupied. With everything set for the surrender, Piñolo was sturck by tragedy.
His son, King Ramiro of Mauretania, died of stress derived from managing his Kingdom and the war.
The Council remembered the day for years to come. It was like a black cloud entered the Room.
"No mercy."
Only the Chancellor dared ask what the Emperor was saying. The elder man stood violently, almost knocking the throne itself.
"No mercy with the Heathens! Attack, destroy, usurp! Ignore the peace deals. Remove the Mahometan scourge from the lands of Africa at any cost!"
With the imperial orders made so clear, nobody questioned them. Meanwhile, the Emperor looked for a new heir. And found a young and promising man, the newly crowned infant King of Castille. He was everything Piñolo wasn't.
"Perfect."
The year 1442 saw the decisive blow delivered against Songhai. With them humiliated, the remaining Heathen power would buckle within a decade. The Cross would rule Central Africa unmatched, with a new Christian King replacing the former Mali Sultan.
Even better news arrive, in the form of the Basque culture spreading further north.
"As planned."
With the new Duke of Mallorca bashing a revolting Menorca by himself, the Baleares were under Hispanic rule. Only a county stood between the total recovery of the jure lands, but, amazingly, France was left alone.
"Like a good meal. We will have Africa first and Marsan next. The other county... Well. I will leave it to you, my beloved Eneko."
King Eneko of Castille, Leon and Galicia, forged again into one realm by some suspicious accidents, smiled.
"Of course, uncle. Of course."
He was incredibly ambitious as well as patient. His uncle already told him that he would probably have to give up his other Kingdoms to have Navarra.
But, what about some Kingdoms that his children would have anyway, when he could conquer so much more?
No limit
1134-1142
Iruñea
1134
Sitting in his throne while trying to ignore the bone pains that come with his age, Emperor Piñolo was anything but bored by his Council. He couldn't shake the feeling that his uncle's small council at the beginning as ruler of the small Kingdom of Navarra, with all its petty quarrels and small bets, was a lot more interesting than the high politics discussed there.
He cleared his throat.
"So, are you telling me that we should create more Kingdom titles to better administrate our vast domains. I could tell you that. That's why I bestowed the Mauritanian Crown over the shoulders of my own son. But if you think that it would help stopping more stupid rebellions, let it be."
The Chancellor bowed and hid a smile. Boring the Emperor was the best way to have things done.
Meanwhile, the war against Genoa was progressing at better pace than the painstaking advance through the sands of Sahara. It only took a year to occupy Mallorca and to convince the Doge that it was his best interest to give it to its rightful owner.
Iruñea
1137
With the African front all but stalled by the intervention of the Assassins, Piñolo look north and what he saw pleased him. The Duke of Gascogne was revolting against the French King, making the long-awaited conquest of Bearn a feasible task for the reduced forces Hispania could field at the time.
As the Emperor anticipated, the pressure proved to be to great for the Duke.
It was not clear if the Occitans or the Franks were really aware of the extent of Piñolo's plan, but he continued with it anyway. Next time, with the African fronts definitely closed, he probably would be able to attack without waiting for a foolish revolt by the southern Dukes.
Iruñea
1139
By that ime, Mali was, at last, occupied. With everything set for the surrender, Piñolo was sturck by tragedy.
His son, King Ramiro of Mauretania, died of stress derived from managing his Kingdom and the war.
The Council remembered the day for years to come. It was like a black cloud entered the Room.
"No mercy."
Only the Chancellor dared ask what the Emperor was saying. The elder man stood violently, almost knocking the throne itself.
"No mercy with the Heathens! Attack, destroy, usurp! Ignore the peace deals. Remove the Mahometan scourge from the lands of Africa at any cost!"
With the imperial orders made so clear, nobody questioned them. Meanwhile, the Emperor looked for a new heir. And found a young and promising man, the newly crowned infant King of Castille. He was everything Piñolo wasn't.
"Perfect."
The year 1442 saw the decisive blow delivered against Songhai. With them humiliated, the remaining Heathen power would buckle within a decade. The Cross would rule Central Africa unmatched, with a new Christian King replacing the former Mali Sultan.
Even better news arrive, in the form of the Basque culture spreading further north.
"As planned."
With the new Duke of Mallorca bashing a revolting Menorca by himself, the Baleares were under Hispanic rule. Only a county stood between the total recovery of the jure lands, but, amazingly, France was left alone.
"Like a good meal. We will have Africa first and Marsan next. The other county... Well. I will leave it to you, my beloved Eneko."
King Eneko of Castille, Leon and Galicia, forged again into one realm by some suspicious accidents, smiled.
"Of course, uncle. Of course."
He was incredibly ambitious as well as patient. His uncle already told him that he would probably have to give up his other Kingdoms to have Navarra.
But, what about some Kingdoms that his children would have anyway, when he could conquer so much more?
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Piñolo I (IV)
On great men and great goals
1142-1149
Iruñea
1142
Emperor Piñolo's court was assembled, waiting for the new Imperial Decree. With his alarmingly thin frame barely able to stop being crushed by his dignity's trappings, the Emperor spoke.
"For too long, the souls of Central Africa had been lost. Now, we will enlighten their way to Heaven."
He brought forth a strange crown. It looked like nothing the court ever saw before.
"With this, the symbol of Malian power, I formally declare that the title given to the ruler of Mali shall be no more the Heathen one of Sultan, but the Christian one of King!"
With their moral crushed, the remaining Heathens fell prey of the Hispanic advances. The last positions were occupied in 1144 and 1146
With the work of his lifetime coming to an end, Piñolo decided that he would test the real might of France. He declared war over the county of Marsan. It took just two years to make the King of France yield, and it surprised everyone, starting with the Basques themselves.
Anyway, it was written in the stars that Marsan would be the last conquest by Emperor Piñolo.
Iruñea
April, 1149
"Call King Eneko, Chancellor"
The Jewish healer was pale. He was called after so many other failed to even ease the elderly Emperor's pain. He was successful but, at the same time, warned that the Hispanic ruler's hours were numbered.
"Is it the time?"
"Yes. He won't live long."
"I am here already"
The healer nodded and led the 25 year old King inside the room. The old Emperor was a mere shadow of his former self, but his eyes were still defiant, like he were ready to meet Death face to face. He was reading a colorful map.
"Look, Eneko. The Known World. Isn't it beautiful?"
The heir smiled.
"I see many blemishes. The Canary Islands, the county that France still holds, the Kabilian Duke of Catalan origin."
"Yes. It is your work to right that, now. I think... I think I will sleep a little."
Emperor Piñolo the First of Hispania closed his eyes and immediately felt asleep. Piñolo called for the healer, but he already know the answer.
"He is gone... My Emperor."
On great men and great goals
1142-1149
Iruñea
1142
Emperor Piñolo's court was assembled, waiting for the new Imperial Decree. With his alarmingly thin frame barely able to stop being crushed by his dignity's trappings, the Emperor spoke.
"For too long, the souls of Central Africa had been lost. Now, we will enlighten their way to Heaven."
He brought forth a strange crown. It looked like nothing the court ever saw before.
"With this, the symbol of Malian power, I formally declare that the title given to the ruler of Mali shall be no more the Heathen one of Sultan, but the Christian one of King!"
With their moral crushed, the remaining Heathens fell prey of the Hispanic advances. The last positions were occupied in 1144 and 1146
With the work of his lifetime coming to an end, Piñolo decided that he would test the real might of France. He declared war over the county of Marsan. It took just two years to make the King of France yield, and it surprised everyone, starting with the Basques themselves.
Anyway, it was written in the stars that Marsan would be the last conquest by Emperor Piñolo.
Iruñea
April, 1149
"Call King Eneko, Chancellor"
The Jewish healer was pale. He was called after so many other failed to even ease the elderly Emperor's pain. He was successful but, at the same time, warned that the Hispanic ruler's hours were numbered.
"Is it the time?"
"Yes. He won't live long."
"I am here already"
The healer nodded and led the 25 year old King inside the room. The old Emperor was a mere shadow of his former self, but his eyes were still defiant, like he were ready to meet Death face to face. He was reading a colorful map.
"Look, Eneko. The Known World. Isn't it beautiful?"
The heir smiled.
"I see many blemishes. The Canary Islands, the county that France still holds, the Kabilian Duke of Catalan origin."
"Yes. It is your work to right that, now. I think... I think I will sleep a little."
Emperor Piñolo the First of Hispania closed his eyes and immediately felt asleep. Piñolo called for the healer, but he already know the answer.
"He is gone... My Emperor."
Amazing, blaming someone's death from stress on the infidels! You seem to have rotten luck with heirs predeceasing your ruler =(
It's especially troublesome under Elective as at least, under Primo, you know who's going to be next in line and you can groom them as well. Under Elective the guy with the second largest number of votes isn't necessarily (in fact, is extremely unlikely) to be the voters' second preference, and it simply isn't possible to find out who that person is until the voters' first choice dies ... Oh well, it keeps things interesting, and you at least get a decently liked person as ruler.
Don't forget to show us Eneko's stats in the next update.
It's especially troublesome under Elective as at least, under Primo, you know who's going to be next in line and you can groom them as well. Under Elective the guy with the second largest number of votes isn't necessarily (in fact, is extremely unlikely) to be the voters' second preference, and it simply isn't possible to find out who that person is until the voters' first choice dies ... Oh well, it keeps things interesting, and you at least get a decently liked person as ruler.
Don't forget to show us Eneko's stats in the next update.
This is Emperor Eneko after beating the crap out of every Muslim left from the Canary Islands to Cyrenaica, while improving from misguided warrior to brilliant strategist.
And about the heir problem, his son is backed by the majority of vassals (it helps that he got most of the Kingdoms, anyway) and the other two pretenders are Basque Ximena.
I wonder if I should give him a devilish, villain-like grin.
And about the heir problem, his son is backed by the majority of vassals (it helps that he got most of the Kingdoms, anyway) and the other two pretenders are Basque Ximena.
I wonder if I should give him a devilish, villain-like grin.
A really enjoyable two updates - a lot has certainly happened while I've been gone.
What is the Kingdom of Mali's CoA as a Christian entity? Would you mind showing a picture?
Really nice, as ever, and I'm looking forward to more.
What is the Kingdom of Mali's CoA as a Christian entity? Would you mind showing a picture?
Really nice, as ever, and I'm looking forward to more.