Let's Play Road of Queens - CKII India AAR

[Valley]

Dear Readers,

Before we continue with the AAR I would like to thank you all for following this game. Not only have we being playing for 100 game years but the next chapter will be the 300th chapter (more or less). So I would like to thank you for sticking with the story so far. The ups and the downs, the slow periods and the fast bits, the large chapters and the tiny ones. Thank you very much!

Valley

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred : The Despot Comes Of Age


A Royal Wedding

We open this chapter on the 23rd of January, of the year 869 AD, on Despot Niphon's 16th birthday. The Royal Court celebrated it with cake, music, jesters, and dancing clown pugs.

His schooling had came to an end and it turned out he wasn't that bad at the art of war. Also, of course, the Regency came to an end once he turned sixteen.

Spoiler: Happy Birthday Mr. Despot

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Even before they had finished eating the cake Bhikkhu Gerasimos of Para-Lauhitya came forth asking that the Count of Goalpara become a vassal of his. In return for a favor, of course. The Despot agreed to this. Having the Doux of Para-Lauhitya owe him a favor seemed like a good idea.

Spoiler: A Vassal For A Favor

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Now it was time to decide on what to focus on for the next few years. Religion? Business? War? The Despot decided to concentrate on family. Trying to improve relations with those family members still in the Realm seemed like a good idea. He couldn't marry them all off to other Realms.

Spoiler: Family

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After that he had to decide what would be the "Focus" of the Realm. And he decided the focus would be to make it prosper. Of course that meant peace for the next five years but he was willing to wait that long if it meant being in a better position when it was time for conflict.

Spoiler: Five Years Of Peace

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Now it was time to get his bride. From the Ming Empire. In other words he sent them a request for a bride, a daughter of the Emperor, that he could take as his wife.

Spoiler: A Marriage Proposal To The Chinese

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And they agreed to it. With the Emperor's approval one of his daughters, the Princess Yanyan, was sent to become the Despot's wife.

Spoiler: Accepted

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As the Despot waited for his bride to arrive there were a few events that happened. The library in the Kamarupanagara Hospital was finally finished.

Spoiler: A NEW Library

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And in February his Aunt Eustathia Dysnomia, the Concubine of the Protector General, died a natural death at the age of 45.

Spoiler: A Traitor Dies

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And of course somebody started to plot against the Doux Pelagios of Nagchu. This time it was the Countess Tarmawirne of the Tibetan Plateau. It seemed everybody wanted the title of the Duchy of Nagchu for themselves. The Spymaster, of course, asked her to back out of her plot.

Spoiler: And Another Plot Against The Doux Pelagios

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On the 14th of February the Imperial Princess arrived. The Princess Dong Yanyan impressed everyone with her escort of soldiers and the decorated litter she rode in.

Spoiler: The Bride Arrives

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She was attractive and a Theologian Scholar, so she was as wise as she was pretty, which also impressed the Despot. She was also paranoid but that would just make her harder to kill. Which was a good thing in a Queen. Right? Also the marriage extended the Peace Treaty between the Kingdom of Kamarupa and Imperial China. Which was also a good thing.

Spoiler: Princess Yanyan Of The House Of Dong

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After the wedding the Despot took his new Queen to claim the Family's Treasures together. As a couple. He could wear the Ceremonial Robes and wield the Arming Sword now that he was of age.

Spoiler: The Despot Now Had Access To The Treasury

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So we close this chapter with the Despot FINALLY claiming his rightful place on the throne AND marrying one of the most powerful women in ALL of Asia. If not the KNOW WORLD!

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-One : Planning For The Future


Island Of Peace In A Ocean Of Conflict

We open this chapter in February, of the year 869 AD, with the Despot allowing things to settle down after the two birthdays. It had come to his attention that the Small Pox had left the Capital-County as it journeyed up and down the Silk Road.

Spoiler: The Capital Is Free Of Small Pox

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At least he would not have to worry about his wife getting sick. And now he was old enough to pick a law. He decided on increasing the Centralization of the Realm. It would decrease the number of Vassals he could have but increase his Demesne size.

Spoiler: Higher Centralization?

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In other words increase the holdings he could control directly. As one day he would inherit the Kingdom of Pala he wanted to have the ability to grab some of the most important of his father's holdings.

Spoiler: The Law Is Passed

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Of course the Council passed the law. Not they had any choice. Outside of the time of a regency they had no real power. Or fake power. In fact they had no power at all.

The Despot called forth the two Councilors still in the Capital-County to have a small meeting. The only ones available were the Protostrator, Baron Eustathios of Nalrajar Garh, and the Sakellarios, Count Dionysios of Amdo, as the rest were in other counties carrying out their duties.

Yummy Snacks

The Meeting Chamber was ready for the meeting. Guards would keep people from listening in and the kitchen had sent a platter of tiny lemon cakes.

The Despot noticed two things as the two men entered the Meeting Chamber. One, the idea of only pulling landless and powerless men and women on the Council had long since been forgotten. Almost everybody on the Council had a title and some political power.

Spoiler: The Council

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The second thing he noticed was the change in fashion. "Why are you both dressed in such a manner?" he asked.

Spoiler: New Fashion

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"No reason," replied the Baron Eustathios.

"Really?" demanded the Despot with a tilt of his head.

"Well," said Count Dionysios with a blush. "Ever since your bride came to the Capital many people have been aware of their general appearance. The local outfits were decades old and so many tailors sent scouts to the west to get information on the latest fashions. A small fortune has been spent by many Nobles to bring their appearance up to date."

The Despot sighed as he sat down and said, "I called you both here NOT to talk about fashion but to talk about this."

Spoiler: County Of Kathmandu

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He placed a tiny map on the round wooden table. "The County of Kathmandu was on the Silk Road and had a functional Trade Post. Its populace were mostly Buddhist Bengali and it was currently under the rule of the Ayudha Kingdom."

"The Great King only has about half our military forces," said the Baron. "The hardest part will be the Magustros getting the claim."

Spoiler: Kingdom Of Ayudha

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"He IS a skilled military commander also," pointed out the Count. "Small army or not you don't want to assume victory. Just because you outnumber him two to one does not mean you can easily win in a war with him."

"True," said the Despot with a nod. "He has a few Pacts and vassals. Before the war starts I need more information on them. Will they support him in a war? Will they refuse to help? How do they feel about him? How do they feel about me?"

The two Councilors nodded their heads.

"We have five years. Claim or no claim I plan to go to war with him." The Despot stopped for a few moments to let that sink in. "Any questions?"

The two Vassals shook their heads.

"I will send details to the other Councilors so we all know out goal," declared the Despot. "Good day."

As the two men stood up, bowed, and left the Meeting Chamber the Despot leaned back in his seat and smiled. Now that the meeting was over he had to launch another plan of his. After he ate one of the lemon cakes, of course.

That same day he asked to join the Savaka-Sangha. As he had five years to build up his Realm and family he also had time to work on getting more of the Religious populace on his side.

Spoiler: The Despot Joins The Savaka-Sangha

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They were delighted to accept him into their ranks. Shortly after that he was notified that, once again, there were empty spots within the military forces for Commanders.

"Really?" stated the Despot with raised eyebrows. "Already? Oh, okay. Bring me the lists."

The two new Commanders were the Mayor Eudoxios of Manikuta and Mayor Leon of Qonggyai. Neither were GREAT at combat but they were the most loyal to the Despot out of those near the top of the list.

The Despot also noticed that the Minor Title of Seneschal was available again. He gave it to the Doux Ioustinos as the man's opinion had dropped greatly when he stepped down from being the Regent and a member of the Council. It seems he wanted a place back on the Council AND also felt he had a claim on the Kingdom of U-Tsang.

Spoiler: The Doux Ioustinos' Opinion Of The Despot Has Dropped

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So we close this chapter with the Despot preparing himself and his Realm for a future war as the lands around him burned with conflict and illness.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Two : First Tiger Hunt


That's A Small Elephant

We open this chapter in February, of the year 869 AD, once again. It was, in fact, the 19th of February when the Despot decided to organize his first tiger hunt.

Spoiler: Let's Go Kill Something

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He invited all his Vassals to the occasion and nobody refused. Always a good sign.

As the hunters debated where to hunt the tiger and the servants packed and the soldiers sharpened their spears the Despot tried to decide which hunting outfit to bring. Then he was given notice that soon he would be expected to join his fellow Society Members in a nearby monastery. He sent back a positive reply stating he would be there. No worries.

Spoiler: What To Do First? Tiger Hunt!

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In March the elephants piled high with supplies and the porters and soldiers and dogs and hunters and cooks all marched to the hunting camp. Soon the tents were up and the cooking fires lit. The Despot was looking forward to some fine hunting.

Then the Society sent him a letter suggesting that maybe he was, perhaps, spending too much time in worldly affairs and not enough on matters of theology and the True Faith. He promised to do better.

Spoiler: I Promise To Stay Focused

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To show them just how focused he was he donated 100 gold coins to charity. The Savaka-Sangha were very pleased. Then he tried to get back to hunting the big cats.

But it was no good. He kept getting messages and letters and notices. It was as if he could not escape the business of leadership. He was starting to understand how his Regent must have felt for all those years.

First a letter from his Protostrator. It was a short simple letter reporting that one of his Commanders, Andronikos, had become a skilled at using the direct approach. In other words he had perfected knowing when to just charge and smash through the enemy. This was good.

Spoiler: A Commander Improves His Skills

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Then he got news that Count Boethios had disbanded the movement to make himself King of Kamarupa. Which was also good.

Spoiler: Count Boethios Disbanded A Faction

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He also asked one of the servants who the heck Count Boethios was. It turned out the man was one of his many cousins. But not just any cousin. He was the son of Countess Anastasia "The Unfaithful". So he was not just a trouble maker but the son of a trouble maker and brother to two other trouble makers.

Spoiler: Count Boethios The Other Trouble Maker

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No wonder the Count had so many claims. By the end of the month the Despot even received the good news that the Castle of Kamarupanagara had been upgraded.

Spoiler: The Palace Had Expanded The Training Grounds

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Sadly, he and his hunting party had yet to find a tiger or even a hint of a tiger. So they returned to the Capital-County in failure.

Spoiler: No Tiger Found

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He didn't have time to think about how the failed tiger might be seen as a bad omen. He grabbed a fast horse and rode as quickly as he could to join the Society at the monastery. He was on time, barely, to join them in their meeting. If the others noticed the sweat on his forehead or the state of his exhausted horse none of them said anything.

After a few days he was drawn to one of the members. Sotapanna Sagare seemed like a man he might get along with. The man seemed a warrior or, at least, have some interest in military history. As the Despot also shared some interests in warfare he suggested they play some games of strategy. Maybe they would meet halfway?

Spoiler: Meeting Sagare

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As he played military games with Sagare he received a letter from the Palace. Count Boethios had left the Faction that was for Gavelkind Succession in the Kingdom of Kham. Good news again!

Spoiler: Count Boethios Had Left A Faction

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Then he received another letter. His Spymaster was reporting that Count Varzak was the target of another murder plot. Of course, she wrote, she had already told Kyra to cancel it at once. Which was...goodish?!?

Spoiler: Somebody Wants To Kill Count Varzak

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Later that month Count Varzak left the movement to bring Gavelkind Succession to the Kingdom of Kamarupa. Which was good news. The Factions had really lost a lot of their strength lately.

Spoiler: Count Varzak Left A Faction

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Sadly, while he and the Sagare had a good time it did not turn into a friendship. Which was sad. On the other hand the Despot was happy to go home. While he had strong faith in Buddha it seemed he might not have faith in his fellow man.

Spoiler: No Friendship For YOU!

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So we close with some sad news and a lot of good news. Great news if you are a tiger.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Three : Projects And Politics


Merchants Causing Trouble In China

We open this chapter in May, of the year 869 AD, with the Despot deciding to pay for a series of Forts to be built in Kamatapur, Pundravardhana, and Bikrampur.

Spoiler: New Building Projects

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As the chests of coins were delivered to the managers of the work crews the Despot received news that one of his Commanders, Eudoxios, had improved his skills at being a Trickster. Which was good news.

Spoiler: Commander Eudoxios Had Become A Trickster

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Then he received bad news. It seems Count Dionysios of Sikkim had joined the Gavelkind Succession for the Kingdom of Kham Faction. Which made that Faction the most powerful of the three remaining movements.

Spoiler: Count Of Sikkim Joined The Gavelkind Succession Of Kham Faction

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Later in May one of his rivals, Euphemios, finally came of age. And Thakurani Amro sent a reminder about the proposed marriage. As if the Despot would forget the proposal he, himself, had sent.

Spoiler: Proposal Reminder

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Happily, in June, Euphemios went off to marry his new bride. One less trouble maker to worry about.

Spoiler: Euphemios Goes To Meet His New Bride

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A few days later the Despot got some mixed news. First, it turned out the old Bhikkhu Gerasimos, who owed the Despot a favor, had died a natural death.

Spoiler: The Old Doux Is Dead - Long Live The New Doux!

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Which put Bhikkhu Evangelos in charge of the Duchy of Para-Lauhitya. A man who was totally insane and owed the Despot nothing. Oh my.

On other hand he soon got the good news that the County of Nyingchi had been converted to the Buddhist Faith. At least the True Faith was still spreading. Slowly but still spreading. It was doubtful the Pope was happy about that. But the Pope had his own problems.

Spoiler: County Of Nyingchi Had Embraced Buddhism

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Then the Despot got a interesting message from the Protector General of the Ming Dynasty. It seems that merchants from the Despot's Realm had been acting dishonesty with the Chinese merchants. The letter was polite but suggested that the Despot could make sure that this behavior would cease.

Spoiler: Making The Emperor Happy Vs. Making Money

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Many of the choices the Despot had to deal with such a problem would hurt him in many ways. Mostly in his trade income. As his trade income was almost half of his income the idea of pissing off the merchants seemed distasteful to him. So he decided that the merchants' conduct was none of his business. True, this upset the Ming. But better to upset the Ming than upset the Realm's Tax Farmers.

At this point the Despot, worried that his wife might be upset by his cold reply to her own father's request, sent her a small gift to keep her happy. This worked so well that he even asked her to convert to Buddhism.

Spoiler: Keeping The Wife Happy

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As he waited for her decision he received the news in July that Cayantavarman Pandya, who was married to one of his cousins, had died of Great Pox. He felt sad for her. But only for a few minutes. He had a Realm to rule and didn't have time to mourn the dead.

Spoiler: Some Guy Dies?

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As few days later he got a reply from his wife. Queen Dong Yanyan was now a Buddhist.

Spoiler: The Queen Was Now Buddhist

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So we close this chapter with the Despot and his Queen getting closer while he had slightly pissed of her father.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Four : Projects Of Mercy


Expanding On The Hospitals

We open this chapter in July, of the year 869, with the Despot deciding to work on some of the hospitals. First the one in Haruppeswara needed a Leper Colony. It would cost over 300 gold coins yet he felt it was worth it.

Spoiler: Building A Leper Colony

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Then he decided the Hospital in Kamarupanagara needed to have the Sick House improved on. That cost over 600 gold coins! But he still felt it was worth it and paid the price.

Spoiler: Expanding On The Sick House In The Capital

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As the Despot waited for his treasury to refill he heard some bad news in August from the Kingdom of Pala. Looks like Thakur Hariyamandal of Radha, a member of the Pala Royal Family, had founded a movement to make him King of the Kingdom.

Spoiler: Thakur Hariyamandal Wanted To Be King Of Pala

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Looks like another trouble maker the Despot would have to keep an eye on when he inherited the Kingdom.

Then news came from the western counties. Hisen's Host was marching through the Realm's territory. Nobody knew who Hisen was or who Hisen was fighting. In fact nobody knew even if Hisen was a boy or girl. All they knew was he wasn't attacking the Realm.

Spoiler: Who Is Hisen?

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Near the end of August the Despot asked for report on the two living members of his mother's generation.

The Mayor Leontios "The Wise" of Yumai at 51 years of age was still going strong. Neither crazy or depressed. But he still disliked the Despot. Maybe not as much as before. But he still refused to marry off his daughters to anybody the Despot selected. Kind of sad really because the man was brave and trusting. He would have made a fine Vassal if it were not for his negative opinion of the Despot just because he had hated the boy's mother, the Queen.

Spoiler: Mayor Leontios Of Yumai And Prince Eusebios

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Prince Eusebios pretty much hated the Despot and was totally insane. IT didn't help that he was still in a dark, damp, pit in the depths of the dungeon under the Palace.

In September the Despot, likely out of boredom, asked for a run down on all the Religions and Cultures within the Realm. Well, not really a run down as much as a cross-section of the people in the counties and courts who were NOT Buddhists. What he got was surprising.

First off, there was a ton of Christians running around and not all of them Catholic. Along with Hindu, Pagans, Muslims, and a FEW of the Jewish Faith. It seemed that while Judaism had lost all its territory and had been wiped out as a organized Religion it still had a few members “wandering” around.

Spoiler: A Cross-Section Of The Populace

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No doubt many of these Religious Sects have fled to India to escape the reach of the more powerful Religions AND to also escape much of the wars that rocked Europe.

So we close this chapter learning a little about the make-up of the Realm under the surface of its Buddhist face. Next chapter we list the top seven military powers of 869 AD!

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Five : The NEW Face Of Europe


Welcome To Italy

Welcome to our list of the Top Seven Military Powers of the Known WORLD on the 22nd of September, of the year 869 AD! And the first Realm on our list was the Aztec Empire with more than one hundred-twenty-nine thousand warriors! With the angry, but well fed, Huetlatoani Xochitl "The Brave" on the throne the Aztec had been doing very well for themselves. They had even taken Italy.

Spoiler: Aztec Empire

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And at the moment the Aztecs were in a war with West Francia, the Nazeerid Emirate, Rennes, Leon, Aquitaine...you know, it would just be easier to show the list. Even the Pope was on it! In fact if you look closely I am pretty sure everybody was on it. There was the Umayyad Empure. And Wessex. And Svipjod. And Pictland. And Poland. Wait, wasn't that your name also?

Spoiler: The Pope And The REALLY Big War

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Sadly for most of Europe it looked like the Aztec would win. Which meant many of the Realms fighting them would lose soldiers or prestige or both. And what happens when a Ruler loses men or honor? Sometimes nothing. Sometimes rebellion or revolt or total collapse. Change was in the air. Mostly in the form of smoke and flames and screams of horror. Let's move on to the second Realm on the list, yes?

Welcome to The Byzantine Empire ruled by Basilissa Romylia who was dealing with a Vassalization War against the Count of Kardi. With over twenty thousand soldiers it was likely she would win.

Spoiler: Byzantine Empire

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Sadly, for her, she was also sick at the time. And while a Just and Content woman it seemed that she had expelled the Jews. Which, now that we know they do STILL exist, is not a nice thing.

And now the next Realm on our list was the Arabian Empire. Ruled by Caliph Al-Mahdi "The Wicked". Who was dealing with ANOTHER Revolt. He had over twelve thousand warriors and almost 700 gold coins. So you would think he SHOULD be able to handle it.

Spoiler: Arabian Empire

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On top of that he was also defending himself against an invasion. And he was LOSING both conflict. Yes, it looked like he could NOT handle the conflicts at this moment. Looked like the Muslim Spring was over. And the Aztec Summer was coming?

The next Realm on the list was the young Kingdom of Al-Jazina ruled by the young Caliph Mirza. Both a Ruler and a Religious Leader he held command over seventeen thousand warriors.

Spoiler: Al-Jazina

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And amazingly he and his Realm were at peace. Maybe because his Realm was neither in Europe or India. In other words he and his lands were in a nice, peaceful, spot. A few more years and he should be able to rule without a Regent.

Now to the fifth Realm on the list. Welcome to Punjab! Ruled by the insane eunuch the Great King Kutan of the House of Kipchaki he was in a war to subject the Kingdom of Guhilot.

Spoiler: Punjab

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With almost eight thousand warriors is it likely such a skilled warrior would win. But what is the point with nobody to pass it on to? Sad.

Now to the next Realm on our list. We have to go back to the Middle East. To the Abbasid Revolt! Hakim of the House of Abd al-Qays was in revolt against the Abbasid and was winning. Which was amazing for a depressed coward. And he was VERY decadent. It was amazing his Realm functioned at ALL.

Spoiler: Abbasid Revolt

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Still, with over eight thousand warriors, four wives, and five children he was doing pretty good to be honest. If he could survive that is.

Now to the last Realm on the list. The Kingdom of Kamarupa. Blah! Another flash-in-the-pan Realm. And a pretty boy Ruler named Niphon. He was brawny, ambitious, and charitable. No doubt it impressed the ladies but it won't impress this author! No sir.

Spoiler: Kamarupa

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True, he had a well run Realm and a nicely sized military force. And had married well. BUT he had already blown through thousand of gold coins in a building spree. Tsk, tsk. Putting the Kingdom of Kamarupa on the list is just some kind of fad. Like his mother. A fad I tell you!

So, my lovely readers, those are the top seven military powers of the known world. Many we will see again. And a few we may never see again. So I close my tome, clean my pens, and blow out the candles as I bid you a good evening as we close this chapter. In our next chapter we will PARTY!

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Six : The Despot's Feast


Party! Party! Party!

We open this chapter in October, of the year 869 AD, with the Despot deciding to send out invites to all his Vassals. He wasn't worrying about the fall of Western Civilization. In fact - what was happening in Europe was not anything he, of his Vassals, cared about. He was planning his first Diwali Autumn Festival.

Spoiler: The Despot's First Diwali Autumn Festival

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As he started to plan out the feast he was told by his staff that is was traditional to get a gift for his wife. Her picked perfume. He was slightly worried about the funds, to be honest, and felt a bottle of perfume was good enough for a woman who...well, really did have almost everything.

Near the ides of October the guests started to arrive. Nobody had refused and they were all met with jesters and clowns and staff handing out drinks, food, and small gifts as they entered the Palace.

Spoiler: The Party Starts And The Queen Gets Her Gift

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By November it was time for the Despot to hand his gift to the Queen who seemed pleased with her gift. Soon it was the high point of the Diwali, the most important night, and all the candles and lamps and fireplaces were lit. Everywhere guests enjoyed themselves celebrating the victory of light over darkness with strong drinks and sweet foods. The Despot was pleased. At least it looked like his party would NOT be a failure such as the Tiger Hunt.

Spoiler: The High Point Of The Party

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A day later a member of his staff notified him that his Magistros had arrived and was waiting to see him in one of the side kitchens. The Despot was able to leave without anybody noticing as the crowd was too busy getting drunk to care.

In the kitchen, among the noise and heat, Mayor Ioustinos explained his work to fabricate a claim on Kathmandu was almost at an end. All he needed was about 920 gold coins.

Spoiler: How Much Now?!?!?

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The Despot told his Magistros to forget it. Even if he had that much, which he did not, he would never pay that much for a claim on a simple county. He told the Magustros to join the party.

“You’re working in the Palace till I tell you otherwise,” he stated as he handed the Mayor a drink that had been waiting on a nearby table. “Enjoy.”

As few days later the Great King of Pala won his war against the Raja Barjena of the Satyavarman Raj. Which meant a little more money and reinforcements for the Kingdom of Pala.

Spoiler: The Great King Of Pala Won His War

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Soon the feast came to an end and the Despot was very pleased. Everything had gone well. No monkey invasion and no drunks attacking him.

Spoiler: The Party Comes To An End

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So we end this chapter with a good party, a happier Despot and Queen, and the Magistros back in the Capital-County working to improve relationships with Vassals, Courtiers, and neighbors.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Seven : A Fight Over Sarnth


Buddha Teaching At Sarnth

We open this chapter in November, of the year 869 AD, with the alarming news that the Moral Authority of Buddhism had taken a drop. It was unknown why such a thing had happened. The two Holy Sites that the Buddhists had controlled were still under their control.

Spoiler: The Five Holy Sites

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There could have been some wars or conflicts in which Buddhist Rulers had been defeated in but the Despot did not know of. It was a puzzle, for sure.

Then Count "Cottontail" joined the Gavelkind Succession in the Kingdom of U-Tsang Faction. As the Despot looked over the Factions he noticed all three were now made up of only three Nobles.

Spoiler: The Count Joined The Faction For Gavelkind Successio In U-Tsang

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The Despot had been spending more time with his wife and in December he realized that, while they had not married for love, that he had fallen in love with her.

Spoiler: Love, LOVE, LOVE!

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And, better yet, she had fallen in love with him.

Spoiler: And Loved In Return

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As the Despot was basking in the warmth of his newly found romance his staff brought him interesting news. It seems Duke Saua Wenshunu was at it again. Seems his military forces were on the move and were marching on Khotan to help his allies in Turtam subjugate the Realm.

Spoiler: Duke Saua Goes To War

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Together the attackers had just under four thousand soldiers. Not really a lot but maybe they would get lucky?

Then the Despots father, the Great King Gopala declared a Pala-Ayudha De Jure war for Kasi. This was wonderful! Perfect!

Spoiler: The Kingdom Of Pala Goes To War For A Holy Site?

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For the County of Kasi WAS the Hindu controlled Holy Site of Sarnath his mother had visited and having it controlled by a Buddhist Ruler would increase the Religion's Moral Authority!

Spoiler: War For Kasi

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So the Despot got to watch the armies of the Kingdom of Pala march off to help increase the strength of the Buddhist Religion. Which would help his own Religious Vassals spread the Faith. Dance puppets! Dance!

Spoiler: DANCE!

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For a second the Despot thought that maybe, just MAYBE, his dad had planned it that way? Then he dismissed that idea. Too silly.

Then the Despot got the news that the ex-Adventurer Wanyan Zhilugu had become his brother's Marshal. Really? The Count had placed his young brother, who wanted the title of Count, in charge of his military?

Spoiler: Marshal Wanyan Zhilugu

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But in February he received the most wonderful news any husband can get from his wife. Yanyan was pregnant! He just hoped it was a girl.

Spoiler: The Queen Is Heavy With Child!

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Sadly the good news was rained on by some mixed news. Count Varzak had become the new leader of one of the Factions. Which was mixed because it did mean somebody had dropped out. Which meant that he was the only member of the movement that wanted to bring Gavelkind Succession to the Kingdom of U-Tsang.

Spoiler: The Count Is Now Leader For The Faction He Just Joined

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Then it turned out the Despot could help Eusebios, one of his kin and wards, and he decided nope. The boy could work things out on his own.

Spoiler: He Is On His Own

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After all, the boy felt he should have many of the Despot's titles. Why would the Despot help him develop his skills? In fact...why not make sure the boy would end up OUTSIDE the Realm when he became a man.

Spoiler: Marrying Off A Trouble Maker

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So the Despot found Mala Yaghlakar. A woman who was happy to marry a Greek Courtier in a Matrilineal Marriage!

And by March her Liege had agreed to the proposal.

Spoiler: the Marriage Proposal Was Accepted

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The Despot asked the staff what was happening with the Small Pox in the Realm. It turned out, outside of a small spot of it in the Kingdom of Pala, there was none in India or Tibet.

Spoiler: No Small Pox In The Realm

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Of course it was still in the Middle East while Measles was in Europe and Camp Fever was in Africa.

Spoiler: Illness In The Rest Of The Known World

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So we close this chapter with the Despot mostly happy about the events of the past few months. A baby on the way, his father in a war that would help Buddhism, and Small Pox no long in his Realm.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Eight : The Concubine And The Count


Used And Discarded

We open this chapter in March, of the year 870 AD, with the Despot looking over the three trouble makers who made up the three Factions.

Spoiler: The Factions

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Doux Andronikos "The Young" of Yarlung was going to be the worst of them. He was not only the Leader of the Faction to bring Gavelkind Succession for the Kingdom of Kamarupa. He also was the one, out of the three, who really disliked the Despot. This was why the Spymaster was trying to find blackmail material on him.

Spoiler: The First Trouble Maker

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Count Varzak of Gyantse was the Leader of two of the Factions and had a long history of being a trouble maker. He seemed to have a positive opinion of the Despot and no claims that were unreasonable. In fact no claims to other titles at all.

Spoiler: The Second Trouble Maker

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While on the bottom of the list the Count Dionysios of Sikkim was not somebody to just dismiss out of hand. While he was not a Leader of one of the Factions, and seemed to like the Despot, he had a LIST of titles he believed belonged to him. Including all Three Kingdoms.

Spoiler: The Third Trouble Maker

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Princess Dionysia of Kamarupa was still trying to find some dirt on her son Andronikos. She wasn't even trying to hide her presence. Many times in the past she had hidden her womanly features by pretending to be a man. But lately she had been wearing grey dresses. Not a very good costume.

Spoiler: The Spymaster Spying On Her Son

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Later that month Raja Nar Singh of Magadha, who had a weak claim on the Kingdom of Bihar, had become the Leader of the Faction to Increase Council Power in the Kingdom of Pala. Now he was a trouble maker for everybody. Double Trouble.

Spoiler: Make It Double

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Then the Despot received, in April, some good news. Count Dionysios dropped out of the Faction to bring Gavelkind Succession to the Kingdom of Kham. Which weakened it.

Spoiler: Count Dionysios Drops Out Of The Faction For Gavelkind Succession For Kham

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He also was alerted to the fact that the blind Duchess Anakhit of Nyingchi had not only come of age and passed the Late Feudal Administration Law. In fact, she was now married and focused on having children. Outside of the lack of eyes she seemed to be a very talented woman and would make a very good Vassal.

Spoiler: The Blind Duchess Passed The Late Feudal Administration Law

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In May it came to his attention that his brother could use some advice. The Despot refused to get involved. He had nothing against his brother really.

Spoiler: Prince Hypatios Is On His Own

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He knew Hypatios had to have some skills when he grew up. But he didn't want him to have TOO many. So he decided to let his brother do things his way.

Later that month two building projects were finally finished. The Hospital in Kamarupanagara reported that the Sick House had been expanded as ordered.

Spoiler: A Expanded Sick House

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The County Hospital in Haruppeswara reported that the Leper Colony had been completed.

Spoiler: A New Leper Colony

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Not much else happened till the middle of June when the Count Petros of Kunggar set aside his Concubine Wu Xiuying.

Spoiler: Xiuying Of The House Of Wu

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This was kind of sad if logical. She was now 46 and too old to give him any more children. And she had already given him his HEIR. So the Count had no farther use for her and dumped her.

What happened next is hard to understand. Historical records show that the Despot didn't really like the woman yet he proposed to Count Petros that she become his Concubine. Maybe a part of him felt sad for her? Or maybe it was part of some kind of plan?

Spoiler: Proposal

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Either way the Count agreed to give her to the Despot.

Spoiler: Acceptance

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To help her adjust to her new life the Despot even gave her a gift. It seemed to increase her opinion of the Despot. Or maybe she was just happy to be part of a household again?

Spoiler: Welcome Gift

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Once again it was unknown WHY the Despot took her as a Concubine. She was shy and bookish. And a zealous Buddhist on top of that. And all written evidence suggested he had a BAD opinion of her.

Spoiler: Overview

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So we close this chapter with the Despot taking an old Concubine he disliked as his own from a Count who disliked him. Wheels within wheels or something else?

[Rockphed]

As much as I agree with the Despot that having powerful people with claims is unwise, I disagree with his treatment of his brother. Sure, his brother will inherit one of their father's Kingdoms, but after he is subdued he can surely be a powerful ally. Also, sending someone with strong claims out of the kingdom is asking for trouble. Sending away his cousin will come back to bite him in the future, I guarantee it.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Nine : More Wheels Within Wheels


Medieval Wards

We open this chapter in July, of the year 870 AD, with the Despot deciding to try to request something else from the Count Petros of Kunggar while the man was in a good mood. The Despot asked for the Count's Heir, Isaias Toxias, to become his Ward.

Spoiler: Guardian Proposal

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Everybody were shocked when the reply came. The Count had accepted the arrangement. Why the Count would allow the Despot to shape his future Heir was a question many a historian has asked themselves throughout the ages. Also, this meant the Count could not go to war against the Despot even if his Liege did.

Spoiler: Acceptance

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Finally a staff member, not able to hold it in any more, approached the Despot.

"My Liege," said the man, bowing and trying not to look too scared, "I understand taking the Count's Heir as a Ward. That makes sense. But why take the Count's Ex-Concubine?"

"That woman was a gift to the Count from my mother, Queen Eupraxia," answered the Despot with a smile. "She had planned to take him out if he became too much trouble. Sadly he murdered his first wife, who had a high opinion of my mother, and spoiled the whole plot. But if my aging Spymaster dies...I have a replacement close at hand."

Spoiler: The Murdering Count

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The man nodded. "Your Concubine knows much about working in the shadows. I understand now my Liege."

"Either way I now control the education of the next Count," added the Despot with a wink.

Spoiler: The New Ward

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Around that time the Despot noticed that the Count had an unmarried daughter called Kale Toxias. She was trusting and brave but, outside of that, not very interesting.

Spoiler: The Single Kale Toxias

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He decided to suggest she marry Courtier Kyros Dysnomia who had nothing to offer to the marriage but Royal Blood. He didn't even have any claims.

In August Kale Toxias had arrived to marry Kyros in a small wedding in the Palace.

Spoiler: The Married Kale Toxias

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Around this time the Great King Gopala III "Son of Mara" of the Pala was 50 years of age. He had picked up Hunting to try to keep healthy but it was rumored he was still suffering from stress.

Spoiler: Gopala III Is 50

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Good news also came to the Despot from Pala. The Thakur Hariyamandal of Radha disbanded his movement to make himself King of Pala. This meant one less problem to deal with once the Despot inherited the Kingdom.

Spoiler: The Thakur No Longer Wants To Be King

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A few days later China announced they were going to war with the Realm of Kroran. It didn't seem like it would be a fair fight. The Ming Dynasty had thousands of soldiers.

Spoiler: China Goes To War

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The Kroran had just over six hundred warriors. And the Shah couldn't use a sword to save his life. Sadly, he may be forced to do so.

Spoiler: Poor Kroran

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Then in September it was rumored that there was a betrothal arranged between Doux Ananata of Varendra and Pulcheria Kauleas. Looks like the young Doux was trying to form ties with the old Doux. The Despot took notice but was not alarmed. Ananta was a young boy and might decide to change his mind. Or the girl could die a natural death. Or the old Adrianos might die. Why get worried about something that would not happen for another four years?

Spoiler: An Arranged Marriage

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Then on the 13th of September the Queen gave birth to a baby boy which she named Eustratios. In Greek Eu means good and stratios came from the word "strata" which meant street or path. So Eustratios means "Good Street" or "Right Path". A interesting name for somebody who may, or may not, be the future Ruler. And a good choice from a mother who was just learning the Greek language.

Spoiler: A New Royal Baby!

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At least the boy seemed to be attractive for a baby. Must of inherited it from his mother. The Despot announced that Eustratios would learn from guards and retainers. He would learn, in other words, about duty and diligence. A good solid education for a future Despot or lesser Noble.

Spoiler: Prince Eustratios's Education

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So we close this chapter with the Despot having a son, a new ward, and planning for the future. As always.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Ten : Good Bye Brother


Snip-Snip!

We open this chapter in September, of the year 870 AD, with the Despot Niphon going over his plans for his two brothers. First there was Prince Hypatios who was, once again, Heir to the Kingdom of Bihar. The Despot was not sure what was going on with the titles. But it didn't matter to him in the end.

Spoiler: Prince Hypatios

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Second was his half-brother the Rajkumar Gopala of the Pala Kingdom. He was the Heir to Dama of Teliagarhi. A tiny holding. Looks like he was happy with that. Maybe he had never wanted to be a Great King?

Spoiler: Rajkumar Gopala

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It didn't matter. The Despot felt that his two brothers would be a threat to him. It wasn't the titles that they would inherit that upset him. It was what they could try to claim when they become adults. When they gained wealth and power and decided they wanted more. That they wanted everything. And being members of the main trunk of the Royal Dynasty they could claim EVERYTHING and many others might back them up in their claims.

The Despot decided he needed to take them both out. One way or another. Before anybody got any ideas about using them to grab for the thrones.

While pondering what to do with them the Royal Court received a visitor from the east. The messenger had a scroll from the Emperor of China. He unrolled it and announced that the Ming Dynasty demanded a TRIBUTE of a thousand horses from the Despot. He and his bodyguards acted like this was a totally reasonable request.

The Despot leaned over to his staff and whispered, "How much would it cost to send the Emperor a thousand horses of the type he is demanding?"

Spoiler: No Horses For You!

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The staff put their heads together and after a few minutes replied that it would cost about 1,125 gold coins. The Despot did a double take. "That much?" he remarked. "I can't afford that."

The Despot explained he was NOT a VASSAL of the Emperor and told the messenger and his bodyguards to go away.

Then in October a lowborn woman arrived in the Royal Court. Sophia “The Fox” was Greek but not Buddhist. She said she was a poet escaping the horrors of Europe. In fact there was a rumor that she was an assassin. Which was likely due to the nickname she called herself.

Spoiler: Sophia - The Fox?!?!

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Instead of worrying that she had been paid by the Chinese to kill him for insulting the Emperor the Despot’s first thought was PERFECT! And he asked her to convert to the Buddhist Faith. He had plans on how to use her.

Spoiler: The Fox Is Asked To Become A Buddhist

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Later that month it turned out that Theophanes Dysnomia, the youngest rival to the Despot, needed some help, some advice to guide him in life. The Despot decided the boy must learn on his own. Why would he help the little so-and-so? He had more important things to worry about than another cousin who wanted to cause him trouble! Ideas that needed to be carried out!

Spoiler: Let Theophanes Learn On His Own

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Such as sending his brother to the Emperor as a eunuch. It was easy for the Royal Guard to grab the boy when he was sleeping. Nobody missed him. Father was too busy with his wars and rarely visited his children from his first wife anyway.

Spoiler: Kiddnapped Is Such A STRONG Word

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So now the Despot had one less brother to worry. For one of them was now a eunuch who could no longer produce children or inherit titles.

Spoiler: The Emperor's NEW Eunuch

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So we close this chapter with the Despot happier, the Chinese Emperor not as happy, and Prince Hypatios not happy at all. And one half-brother to deal with.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Eleven : Stocking The Odds In His Favor


The Fox Becomes A Concubine

We open this chapter in mid October, of the year 870 AD, with the Despot focusing his attention totally on his half-brother Rajkumar Gopala who was now the Heir to the Kingdom of Bihar. For a second time.

Spoiler: The Despot's Half-Brother

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Once again his plotting had nothing to do with the title. No matter what he did he would never inherit the title. He would either have to go to war for it or try to arrange some kind of marriage so that a future Ruler inherited it. Either way he didn't want his half-brother, a direct descendent of the Great King, to have it. It would be easier if he was removed.

It was time for him to die.

Spoiler: Time For A Good Old Fashion MURDER!

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The first person the Despot got in touch with was the Raja Nar Singh of Magadha. The man who wanted the Kingdom of Bihar for himself. The trouble maker. Commander of Bengal and the Court Musician. AND the Spy Master of the Kingdom of Pala. His response suggested he would be willing to join the plot. No bribe was even needed. Which meant, if he joined, there would be no warnings from the Spy Master about a plot against the Prince. Wonderful!

The next person the Despot got in touch with was one of the most trusted men in the Pala Royal Court. Nar Singh was the Court Physician of Bengal. No relationship to the Raja. He was the Pala's Family Doctor. He also suggested he might be willing to join. Great!

The third person the Despot got in touch with was his step-mother. She had a very high opinion of the Despot and also happened to be the target's Guardian! And everything suggested that she would also be willing to join the plot. That gift he had sent her when she was starving had paid off. Perfect!

Spoiler: Even Step-Mother Seems Willing To Help

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As the Despot waited for replies to his inquires Sophia brought the Despot the news that she would convert to Buddhism. The Despot was very pleased with this.

Spoiler: The Buddhist Fox

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He gave her a small gift to reward her. And to increase her loyalty right before offering her as a Concubine to his father.

Spoiler: The Fox Is Offered To The Great King Of Pala

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As he, once again waited for things to fall into place, he received a wonderful "Thank You" note from the Emperor of China. How nice.

Spoiler: A Chinese Thank You Note

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Near the end of October and the start of November the Despot received three letters. All three were replies from his, now, fellow plotters agreeing to help kill his half-brother.

Spoiler: Mail Call

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At the same time he received a letter from his step-mother he also received a letter from his father. The Great King had accepted Sophia as his second Concubine. The FOX was now within the target's household. She was asked to join the plot before she could even unpack her bags!

Spoiler: Sophia Is Asked To Join The Plot

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Later that month she sent a note saying she was happy to join in the murder plot.

Spoiler: The Sophia Joins The Plot

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This meant some of the most powerful people in the Pala's Royal Court were in on the plot. But the Despot realized he needed more backers. Powerful people who were willing to join. But he had to make sure that they were not drunks, idiots, or babblers. Nothing like getting a backer who would give away the plot the second he opened his mouth.

So he sent agents to feel out the rest of the Pala Court. Who would willing to join the plot and WHO would be safe to invite to the plot? Some of the most powerful men in the Royal Court of the Pala Kingdom were drunks or idiots or HONEST! Best to stay away from them.

It turned out that Mayor Narasingha of Malda was willing to join for a price. He was a powerful man, for a Mayor, but was not too sure that he wanted to join. The Despot sent the powerful man a gift of 31 gold coins and then sent him a letter inviting him to the plot. The local agents suggested he would agree.

Then there was Hira. The FIRST Concubine of the Great King. Who seemed willing to join. For a price. The Despot sent her a small gift of about 15 gold coins. Then he sent her a request to join the plot. Once again his agents on the spot suggested she would agree to join.

And once again the Despot waited for the replies. As he waited the Kingdom of Kroran was defeated and their armies wiped out. The Shah had lost not only his men but a lot of his honor.

Spoiler: Poor Kroran

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To be honest the poor man was in a dangerous position. His two vassals could turn on him and he had nothing left to fight them with!

Near the end of November the Despot received the replies from the Mayor and the Concubine. They had both agreed to join.

Spoiler: More Backers For His Plot

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The Despot was very pleased. NOW there were enough backers to his plot to kill his half-brother. All they needed was an opening.

Spoiler: NOW All They Needed Was Time!

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So we close this chapter with the Great King of Pala's Third Wife, Two Concubines, Court Doctor, Master of Spies, and one of his most powerful Mayors plotting to kill his youngest son.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Twelve : Threats And Poetry


The Mighty Pen

We open this chapter in January, of the year 871 AD, with the Count Varzak disbanding his Faction for bringing Gavelkind Succession to the Kingdom of U-Tsang.

Spoiler: Count Varzak Disbanded One Of His Factions

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Which left just two Factions. The Despot was very pleased. But later that month the Despot's good mood was destroyed by a letter from the Emperor of China. Seems he had just been notified of the lack of horses coming his way and, in return, he planned to punish all travelers who had visited the Despot's Capital.

Spoiler: Grumpy Note From China

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This would affect trade. Slightly. But not by much. While the Chinese might block traders going to China they had not closed the Silk Road. So wealth would still be flowing through the Despot's lands to the Middle East and Europe.

Spoiler: The Silk Road Is STILL Open

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But then the Despot received horrible news from his Spymaster. In February she had uncovered a murder plot. It seemed Konstantine Dysnomia wanted to kill his new born son! Of course the woman was told to cancel her plot. Which she did after a week.

Spoiler: Somebody Wanted His Son Dead!

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But for the life of him the Despot could not figure out WHY she had wanted Prince Eustratios dead. Maybe she was confusing the boy for another Eustratios?

Later that month Count Petros demanded that his Nobles shift their obligations to giving him more levies. The Despot took note of that.

Spoiler: Count Petros Wants Levies From His Vassals

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In March the Despot's Spymaster came to him with a choice. Seemed she had finally found something on her son that the Ruler could use. The question was HOW to use it? The Despot decided to threaten Doux Andronikos to get him out of the Factions.

Spoiler: Threatening Doux Andronikos

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Within a week the Doux sent a message saying he promised not to associate with any of the Factions. It was a polite letter but the Despot didn't trust the man. The Doux wanted a position on the Council and his dislike for the Despot was well known.

Spoiler: The Doux Promises To Behave

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Now that Princess Dionysia had helped threaten her son she was sent to Laksmanvati to help kill the Despot's half-brother. The woman was a hard worker if nothing else.

Spoiler: No Rest For The Wicked

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Then Doux Andronikos proved his words were honorable. At least when his words were on a piece of paper that could be revealed to the public. For he disbanded his own Faction which left only one Faction left as a threat to the Despot's power.

Spoiler: And Then There Was One!

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In late April he received a large package from Bhikkhu Harendranarayan. Seemed he wanted advice on his poetry. The documents were verses all on Buddha. The problem was there was no emotion in it. The work lacked the comfort, the love, the core of the Faith. At least that is what the Despot sent in a letter as a reply to the want-to-be poet.

Spoiler: Nice Words But No Soul

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The Despot started to become worried he may have offended the Bhikkhu for there was no reply that month. In fact he did not get a reply till near the end of May! The man's new draft was much better. The words really seemed to affect the Despot emotionally. He sent back a letter suggesting that the Savaka-Sangha should be given the words for current and future members to enjoy.

Spoiler: These Words Need To Be Preserved

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As he waited for another reply he was told by his Protostrator that one of his Commanders, Mayor Leon of Qonggyai, had become a witty Trickster on the battlefield. This was wonderful news, of course. The Despot would need as many skilled military men as he could get his hands on.

Spoiler: Commander Leon Is Now A Trickster

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Then the Despot got some more good news. The Doux Andronikos dropped out of the last Faction. And then there was one Vassal left. Running a very weak Faction to boot!

Spoiler: One Vassal And One Faction

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Later in June Theodoisa Dysnomia died at the age of 30 from a bad meal. This seemed shocking and reminded the Despot on just how important it was to cook one's food properly.

Spoiler: Always COOK Your Food

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Finally a letter from Bhikkhu Harendranarayan suggested he was VERY happy with the Despot's support and he planned to put the finishing touches on his work before handing it over to the Society for its library. The Despot felt a certain pride at how things had turned out. Helping a fellow Buddhist made him feel good about himself and showed him just how great he was.

Spoiler: Scholars Need To Stick Together

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So we end this chapter with one Faction left and the Despot being looked at as a scholar. At least by himself.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Thirteen : First Attempt


A Fatal Fall?

We open this chapter in the month of July, of the year 871 AD, with the Despot wondering if he could get anybody else to join in on the plot. He noticed a 20 year old Rani Bhogavati of Nadia. A Bengali Buddhist and member of the House of Pala it looked like she might be willing to join the plot. All she needed was a tiny push. So he sent her a small gift and then invited her to join the party.

Spoiler: Rani Bhogavati Of Nadia Is Given A Gift And A Invite

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Around this time his rival, the young Eusebios was nearing the end of his education and was showing signs of being prideful. The Despot didn't care a fig. He just wanted him out of the Realm.

Spoiler: The Rival Eusebios Is Now A Man

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The boy became a man and a so-so steward. A little later a reminder came from the Khagan that Mala Yaghlakar wanted her "boy toy". The Despot sent a positive reply to the reminder and used Eusebios to deliver it in person. The young man was sweating as he left the Palace with the letter and body guards to make sure he arrived on time and did not get "lost".

Spoiler: Going To Get Married!

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Around this time the Despot also received a reply from Rani Bhogavati who was more than willing to join the plot to murder his half-brother.

Spoiler: Another Backer For The Plot

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A few days later the Despot got a letter informing him of the marriage between Mala and Eusebios. He wished them well.

Spoiler: Mala And Eusebios Are Married

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About a week later Doux Adrianos of Lhasa and Doux Ananta of Varendra formed an alliance. This did not really alarm the Despot. Ananta was still a child in the eyes of the law and could not join any Factions or support the older Doux in the political arena. But the Despot would keep an eye on them.

Spoiler: An Alliance Is Formed Between Two Douxs

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Then in August the Despot heard the news that Count Petros of Kunggar as trying to defeat his love of food. Maybe he overheard too many people talking about his weight behind his back? A beard can only hide so many chins.

Spoiler: Count Petros Was On A Diet

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Also his plot against Rajkumar Gopala now had seven backers and his Spymaster helping along. Something had to happen and soon!

Spoiler: An Update On The Murder Plot

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Then a famous author came to the Palace and proposed to write a book about the Despot's family. And the Despot not only agreed but become the man's patron. After all, authors should help and support each other. And of course two books would be better than one, right?

Spoiler: Another Book? SURE!

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In September the blind Duchess Anakhit asked for the County of Haruppeswara. If it had been an underdeveloped county without a Trade Post he would have happily given it to her. But such a rich and important county? No. But he refused her with all the grace and skill he had. He did such a good job he didn't even offend her.

Spoiler: Give Up The County Of Haruppeswara? No...

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Then in October his Magistros reported improving the Despot's relationships with Commander Leon. The man who had become a Trickster. Always a good idea to have good relationships with those who ran the armies and put themselves on the line for your Realm.

Spoiler: The Magistros Was Shaking Hands And Kissing Mayors

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It was around the middle of October when the Despot received news from Hira, one of his father's Concubines, that they had arranged an accident to befall Gopala Pala. A great fall from one of the walls. There would be no way for the boy to survive!

Spoiler: Buwahahahahahahaha!

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Sadly by November the news reached him that they had totally failed to push the boy off the walls of the Palace. Luckily nobody had even realized that there was a plot going on. The backers promised that they would try again.

Spoiler: D'uh!

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So we close this chapter with the first failed attempt to kill the Despot's half-brother.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Fourteen : Another Party


Good Music And Good Food

We open this chapter in November, of the year 871 AD, with the Despot waiting for his half-brother Rajkumar Gopala to be murdered. He realized just waiting on his throne, waiting for letters to arrive, day in and day out, would drive him mad with boredom.

Spoiler: His Half-brother Rajkumar Gopala

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So he announced a seasonal feast! As he had the scribes send out the invitations he selected his wife's gift. Another bottle of perfume. Why fix what wasn't broken?

Spoiler: Announcing Another Party

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As the cooks thought up menus and ordered supplies, as the staff started to put up ribbons and decorate the Palace, the Despot was told that he needed more Commanders. Seems there was two empty spots AGAIN. What was happening to his military Commanders! Were they running away? Being kidnapped?

Spoiler: Two NEW Commanders

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At least this time selecting the two new Commanders was pretty easy. The two men on the top of the list of available warriors were both loyal so why not just pick them? Therefore Mayor Nikodemos of Sadiya and Mayor Supratisthitavarman of Itanagar joined the army.

Near the end of November the guests started to arrive to be greeted by clowns and jesters with trays full of food. The feast had begun!

Spoiler: The Guests Started To Arrive

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Then, what used to be called a "Free Loader", showed up in the form of Romanos. He was a Greek Orthodox Christian who was also a Zealous Misguided Warrior. Which likely meant he would be causing a lot of problems within the Buddhist Realm.

Spoiler: Free Loader

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So the Despot handled it the best way he knew how - he married the man off to a Courtier in a Matrilineal arrangement. Maybe her virtues would rub off onto him?

In the middle of December the Despot gave his wife the gift of perfume which she seemed to enjoy.

Spoiler: The Queen Was Pleased

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Soon it was the high point of the feast. The candles and lamps were lit, the guests were given only the finest of wines and the sweetest of foods, and they all celebrated hope over despair and good over evil.

Spoiler: Everybody Left Happy

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As the guests left the Palace the Despot felt a little better. It was a good feast. Still, there had been no new letters from the backers. He was finding himself growing impatient, and bored, again. He needed to DO something!

Spoiler: Three Building Projects

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Checking the coffers he realized he had over 1,500 gold coins. So he decided it was time to spend some on the military. So he ordered three military projects in Kamatapur, Haruppeswara, and Kundina.

So we close this chapter with three new projects and the Despot happy about his second party going off pretty well. Now if only his half-brother would die life would be perfect.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Fifteen : Many Plots Going On


Lots Of People Planning Murder

We open this chapter in January, of the year 872 AD, with the Despot receiving news that the Count Dionysios of Sikkim had made his Council pass the Title Revocation Allowed Law. Maybe he planned to punish some of his vassals?

Spoiler: Count Of Sikkim Passed The Title Revocation Allowed Law

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Then the Despot received news of a couple of murder plots. Luckily they were nobody who concerned him. Mostly Christians trying to kill Christians.

Spoiler: Nobodies Trying To Kill Nobodies

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In fact he only found out about one plot because he looked up the information about the other plot. Nobody notified him about the first one. Of course the Spymaster tried to tell everybody to stop but as they were not citizens of the Realm so they did not have to comply if they did not wish to.

In March he got news from his Sakellarios. Seems the ever busy Count Dionysios had been working hard in the County of Haruppeswara motivating the peasants and improving on their infrastructure. No doubt the income from that county would increase for awhile.

Spoiler: Count Dionysios Working Hard In Haruppeswara

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He also was alerted to another plot. While the Spymaster told Gerasimos Touvakes to halt his plotting it was up in the air if he would stop or not. He wasn't a citizen of the Realm and didn't have to listen to her. He even already had a backer!

Spoiler: Another Murder Plot

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Once again the Despot wasn't that upset about it. They were both Christians and not really something he planned to lose sleep over.

In fact he was starting to feel a tad stressful. He was working hard and a lot of it felt like he was just running in place. He worked and worked and worked and seemed to get nowhere. But he refused to give up! He was to KEEP working hard!

Spoiler: The Despot Becomes Diligent

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It is said that the Despot become even more diligent and this impressed many of those around him.

Near the end of the month young Theophanes had finished his education and the Despot, noticed with a certain amount of pride, that his rival was in fact a good steward. In fact he was SCARY good at almost everything. He only lacked in people skills.

Spoiler: Theophanese Is Now A MAN

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A reminder was sent to the Despot and he sent the reply, with the soon-to-be husband, to southwest India.

Spoiler: A Reminder Of A Marriage Proposal

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In April the Despot was notified of the couple's marriage. Luckily Cenkulam had more than enough people skills for both of them. It wasn't a bad match. And the best part was how far away this put him! On top of that Theophanes was the vassal of a vassal of a vassal...you get the picture.

Spoiler: A Marriage Far Far Away

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Nothing really happened till May when the Count of Amdo had his Council pass the Title Revocation Allowed Law. An interesting move that suggested Count Dionysios may be having second thoughts about some of his vassals. The Despot took note but wasn't very worried about it.

Spoiler: Count Of Amdo Passed The Title Revocation Allowed Law

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In June one of his backers, Rani Bhogavati, joined the Faction to Increase the Council Power in Pala. He knew she was a trouble maker, after all she was helping him plot to kill his half-brother, but he had hoped she would not end up being a political trouble maker. That DID brother him.

Spoiler: Rani Bhogavati Joined The Faction To Increase Council Power In Pala

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Then the Great King of Pala made the Rani his Designated Regent. The Despot decided this was a good thing. Because that gave her even more power within the Pala Royal Court.

Spoiler: Rani Bhogavati Becomes The Designated Regent Of Pala

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If the Great King got ill she would be put in charge. And if he died she would become the Regent of the King of Bihar - his half-brother!

So we close this chapter with lots of plots and a Despot getting slightly bored again.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Sixteen : The Wheels On The Plot Keep On Turning


A New Spymaster In Town

We open this new chapter in July, of the year 872 AD, with the news that the Great King had a new Concubine. Ratnavati "The Unfaithful" at the age of 24 was the newest woman to join the Great King's harem of Concubines. And she was already heavy with a child.

Spoiler: The Concubine Ratnavati And Her Lover

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Being that she was an adulteress the Despot could only assume the baby belonged to Thakur Jayasimha "The Lewd" of Gurgi. This man was not only her lover but the lover of two other women. It was doubtful his wife was happy about any of this.

Spoiler: A Small Gift And A Invite

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He sent Ratnavati a small gift and asked her to join the plot. By the middle of the month she had agreed to join the plot.

Spoiler: Acceptance

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Which meant his plot now had eight backers and his Spymaster working away at it.

Spoiler: Another Backer Joins

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Then his Spymaster was PULLED out of his Council by the death of Doux Andronikos "The Young" of Yarlung. Why did that pull his Spymaster from his Council you ask? Because when the NEW Doux, the Andronikos's father, gained all the titles he ALSO made his wife the Mystikos!

Spoiler: A NEW Grumpy OLD Doux

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This was greeted by mixed feelings from the Despot. Doux Andronikos had been a trouble maker, true, but the NEW Doux seemed to outright HATE the Despot. Which was bad. On the other hand the Despot had been ready with a replacement. His Concubine Wu Xiuying was in Laksmanavati within days and soon was handling the spy network like a pro. Which she was.

Spoiler: A NEW Spymaster

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The new Doux was quick to take control. He made his Council pass the Title Revocation Allowed Law.

Spoiler: Doux Merzuban Passes The Title Revocation Allowed Law

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This drew the Despot's attention back to the Doux Merzuban of the Bamiyan Duchy. He was going to be trouble. He wanted the Kingdom of U-Tsang AND a seat on the Council. And the title change seemed to be nothing more than the actions of a old man trying to stamp his family name into the history books. The Bamiyan Duchy? Really? Naming it after his House? What was wrong with being the Doux of Yarlung?

Spoiler: A Greedy Doux

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On the other hand outside of being a smooth talker he had no REAL skills or talents. So the Despot felt he could be dangerous ONLY if nobody kept an eye on him.

Then in August his NEW Spymaster reported a new murder plot. Another Christian trying to kill one of his Christians. Not really much to worry about.

Spoiler: Another Plot Nobody Cared About

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So we close this chapter with a new plot, a new Spymaster, and a new Doux of the Bamiyan Duchy.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Seventeen : Sometimes You Get The Bear...


...Sometimes The Bear Gets You

We open this chapter in September, of the year 872 AD, with the Despot getting so bored he decided to have another Tiger Hunt. He really didn't like hunts. Nor did he dislike them. He just needed something to do while waiting. So a hunt it was!

Spoiler: Another Tiger Hunt!

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As the invites went out and the Hunters came together to debate where to take the party the Despot got a letter from Digbhanja of Gondwana Revolt. A widower who was trying to make a name for himself he needed a new wife. And he wanted Bhogavati Somavamsi.

Spoiler: A Marriage Proposal Accepted

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The woman was just a Courtier in the Despot's Royal Court. She wasn't anybody of import AND did have some skills in military warfare and spying. So the Despot said sure, why not, have her.

In October the Hunting Party was on its way. Hunters and dogs and elephants, oh my! They set up camp with tents and cooking fires and guards. The Despot was looking forward to the hunt. Sadly, it was to be a failure.

Spoiler: The Hunt Begins!

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For about a week later the tiger ambushed them. And killed one of his invited guests!

Spoiler: The Tiger WINS!

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"Who was it?" asked the Despot. "Please tell me it wasn't Doux Ioustinos! NOO! He was the best of us! Why, Buddha, Why?!"

"No, no, my Liege," answered the Doux of Bhutan from another elephant. "I'm right here. Safe and sound."

"Then who died?" shouted the Despot down to the guards below. For, you see, he was also riding an elephant.

"Count Varzak of Gyantse, my Liege," answered one of the guards. "Ripped out a chunk of him before fleeing back into the jungle."

Spoiler: How....Sad...Kind Of?

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"Oh well, that's...er..."

"Horrible?" suggested Doux Ioustinos from his elephant.

"Oh yeah. Horrible," agreed the Despot.

So on the 13th of October Count Varzak, also known as "Cottontail", was killed by a man-eating tiger.

Spoiler: Wait, There Is Another Faction!

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Of course the Despot was notified that the Count's Faction had disbanded. What upset him was to find out another Faction had been founded, one which nobody had told them about, by the NEW Doux. A Independence Movement!

The NEW Count of Gyantse was only 6 years old. Which was great as that meant he could not join a plot or a movement. He also had a good opinion of the Despot. For now.

Spoiler: The Six Year Old Count

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What was not good was his Guardian. He wasn't a Greek and that upset the Despot. His Vassals and Nobles needed to spread the Greek culture. And how could they do that if they were NOT Greek?

So even as the Hunting Party packed and started on their way home after what was thought of by the general public as a failed hunt the Despot sent the Count a request to take Kale of the House of Toxias as his new Guardian.

Spoiler: Hey, How About Taking Kale As Your NEW Guardian?

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She was Greek, Buddhist, and had a great deal of knowledge in that mind of hers. And was also Brave and Trusting. Hopefully she would pass some of that on to the young Count.

So we close the chapter with the Despot and his Hunting Party returning to the Palace without a tiger and down one Count.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Eighteen : He Works Hard For his Money


Better Treat Him Right!

We open this chapter in October, of the year 872 AD, while visiting a graveyard and a man.

They called him Ajal. It was unknown where he had come from. His name was Arabic but many believed he was from the northern steppes and a few believed him to be Christian. But he never spoke of Religion or where he was from. He kept to himself and showed everyone a equal amount of respect.

He was always in worn clothing. Not dirty or torn. Just worn. He would tip his cap to a Noble or a farmer and could always be seen with a pipe in his mouth above his long beard. Never seemed to be lit. Maybe he liked to just chew on the tip?

He was a grave digger. He said that a grave digger always had work. Peace or war, good times or bad times, somebody was always dying. Graves were always needed. Be the grave needed for a coffin or a vase of ashes they needed to be dug.

Summer or winter, rain or shine, he made sure there were holes available. Seemed to enjoy it. Gave him time to think. Kept him outside. And few people bothered him. Yet he always seemed to know what was happening.

In late October he was leaning on his shovel, chatting with some farmers, talking about the news. They always came to him for the news.

"Yes," he said in his soft voice, "been a busy month. You heard about Pantoleon Dysnomia? Finished his studies and become a amazing diplomat. Ain't too bad with the coin either."

Spoiler: Pantoleon Dysnomia Becomes A Man

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"The Doux Merzuban must be proud of his son," remarked one of the farmers.

"Who rightly knows," pointed out Ajal. "The boy belongs to his mum's line, now, don't he?"

The farmers all nodded knowingly.

"But the Despot was proud of him," added Ajal sucking on his empty pipe. "Even found him a proper wife he did. Devi Ahiylya of the House of Pala. Strong lass. Just. I heard a little depressed but we all have our flaws, eh?"

Spoiler: A Proposal Is Sent

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"Nobody complained about it," commented one of the farmers, "good match it was."

The farmers all nodded knowingly.

"They hitched up, true," said Ajal with a approving nod of his head. "Heard the wedding was nice. Course, both were from Royal Blood. Bad omen to be cheap on a Royal Wedding."

Spoiler: A Royal Marriage

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"I hear that was around the time the Count Avyaman took Kale as his teacher," added one of the farmers.

Spoiler: Count Avyaman Accepts Kale As His Teacher

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"Aye," said Ajal with a nod. "Around that time. Maybe before. Good Greek woman. Should help him grow up right."

At that time the farmers needed to go. Wives would be grumpy if they were late for supper. They said their farewells and left the man to his work.

Later near the end of November you could find Ajal and the same farmers all together at the end of the day. They were chatting again and reviewing the events of the month.

"Hear about the new Barracks at the Castle of Kamatapur?" asked Ajal with a tilt of his head. "Hear they be very modern. Windows and everything."

Spoiler: NEW Barracks In The County Of Kamatapur

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"Bah!" murmured one of the farmers. "In my day we had to eat, sleep, and drill in the dark and we liked it. Crazy kids these days with their need for sunlight and fresh air and hot food and sleep."

The farmers all nodded knowingly.

"Then Count Dionysios of Sikkim died," pointed out Ajal. He was silent for a moment and added, "They say he died grabbing at his own chest."

"They say," added one of the farmers with a tap to the side of his nose, "that he did have a history of chest pains and stress."

"Sure sign of witchcraft I say," said another one of the farmers with a glance over his shoulder. The rest looked nervous at the thought of dark magic. A few made gestures to protect themselves from evil.

"You said that about the tiger attacking Count Cottontail," chuckled Ajal.

This broke the dark overtone and many of the farmers laughed.

Spoiler: The NEW Count Of Sikkim

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"Well," said one of the farmers after the laughter died down, "the new Count of Sikkim seems to like the Despot."

"They always like the Ruler when they are young," stated the Ajal with a knowing nod. "It's when they become adults that their opinion REALLY matters. At least he is too young to get into any trouble."

The farmers all nodded knowingly.

"Then the Despot gave out all those Minor Titles," said Ajal with a smile. "Made the blind Duchess Anakhit Nyingchi the Court Musician."

Spoiler: The NEW Court Musician

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"Aye," said all the farmers. "Nice of them to do that," one of them added, no doubt a fan of the woman.

"And he made Bhikkhu of Para-Lauhitya the Master of the Hunt," continued Ajal, stroking his beard.

Spoiler: The NEW Master Of The Hunt

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"Aye," said all the farmers.

"Then he made Doux Merzuban the Court Jester!"

Spoiler: The NEW Court Jester

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"AYE!" laughed all the farmers.

After letting a few minutes pass to let things settle the Ajal adjusted his shovel to lean on it again and said, "Then they made those new Barracks in the Castle of Kundina."

Spoiler: NEW Barracks In The County Of Kundina

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"No doubt with those new fancy windows," murmured the same window-hating farmer. "Stupid doctors say we need sunlight. But I ain't no tree! If we needed sunlight we would be plants and be eaten by pandas!"

The farmers all nodded knowingly.

"Then the Master of the Hunt, Bhikkhu Evangelos, the insane, food loving Doux of Para-Lauhitya DIED," exclaimed Ajal with a smirk, "to be replaced with the insane Harjjaravarman with his peg leg."

Spoiler: A NEW Doux Of Para-Lauhitya

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The farmers all chuckled.

"But the Despot was smart," pointed out one of the farmers, "and passed on the title of Master of the Hunt to the new Doux. Bhikkhu Harjjaravarman may be insane but he has a HIGH opinion of the Despot."

The farmers all nodded knowingly.

"Then...well...then that poor woman died," said Ajal looking down at the ground for a moment of silent. All the other farmers did so also.

Spoiler: Vijnayavati Dies

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Vijnayavati had died a natural death at the age of 52. She had died lonely and sad, as he husband was in the dungeons. Being married to an insane traitor had been somewhat tough on the poor woman. And, if nothing else, the farmers understood a tough life.

"Then the Despot noticed Vijnayavati's young daughter," pointed out the Ajal with a crack of his neck. "Felt sorry for the family. Or he decided to match make again. Seems he likes to do stuff like that."

"All his family liked to do it," remarked one of the farmers.

"He did find a good match," added another farmer.

The farmers all nodded knowingly.

Spoiler: A Good Match

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"Aye," said Ajal stroking his beard. "Mazoban Anushiranvan of Karghalik of the House of Kanakid. Fancy title for a idiot in the Kingdom of Khotan. Still, he was a Commander AND the Steward of the Realm. Not bad husband material."

"I prefer a young boy who knows how to handle a plow for my daughter," stated one of the farmers. They all nodded in agreement.

"Well, we ain't talking about a marriage between farmers," pointed out Ajal as he gestured with his empty pipe. "Anyways the Despot sent off the proposal. He should be receiving the answer soon."

At that point it was getting dark and the farmers give their farewells to the grave digger. They didn't want to be late for supper.

It was the start of December when, as they passed the graveyard, Ajal waved the farmers over.

"News already?" one of them asked. It was early in the month and normally he didn't have anything to chat about till near the end of the month.

"Yes," said Ajal with a nod of his head. "Looks like the marriage proposal between Leontia and Anushircan was accepted."

Spoiler: The Good Match Is Accepted

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"That was fast." one of them remarked.

The farmers all nodded knowingly.

So we close this chapter as the farmers went home to supper and Ajal went to work digging holes for the Nobles and Peasants alike. For we all start as dirt and return to it in the end.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Nineteen : Plots And Projects


Another Baby On The Way

We open this chapter in December, of the year 872 AD, with the Despot noticing his father, the Great King Gopala III "Son of Mara" of the Kingdom of Pala, was now involved in TWO conflicts.

Spoiler: The Great King Is Deep In Conflict

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Not only was he in his war with the Great King Beejpala "The UnReady" of Ayudha Kingdom but he was also helping his ally Raja Barjena of Satyavarman Raj stomp out a revolt.

And his half-brother was still alive and kicking. It amazed the Despot just how hard it was to KILL a young teenager when almost everybody around him was in on the plot.

Spoiler: The Target

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In January of the new year Great King Gopala finally helped Barjena win his war and the loser ended up in the dungeons of the Raja.

Spoiler: A Small Victory

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Near the end of the month the Despot was annoyed to learn that Doux Merzuban was plotting to claim the title to the Kingdom of U-Tsang. Of course the Spymaster told him to cancel it.

Spoiler: Doux Merzuban Pushing His Luck

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Which the Doux did at the LAST possible moment. Almost as if teasing the Despot. As if daring the Despot to arrest him.

In February Marzoban Candravasu of the House of Kuci, Ruler of Kubera, sent a letter to the Despot. It seems the Queen had such an impression on the young man that he asked for a non-aggression Pact between the two Rulers.

Spoiler: Non-Aggression Pact

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This wasn't a bad idea. Neither Realms would likely be at war with each other anytime soon. So he agreed.

In March the Despot decided that Prince Eusebios was harmless. He had no titles, no men, and his family were all powerless. So he was released from the dungeons.

Spoiler: Prince Eusebios Was Released

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He even seemed grateful to be free. Maybe it was being allowed to sleep in a bed? Having a bath? Eating normal food? Who knows.

In April the Despot checked his coffers. With 2,090 gold coins he decided he could order a few more building projects. First he ordered the Castle Town in Markam expanded to encourage more trade and business. Then he ordered the upgrading of the Barracks in Pundravardhana.

Spoiler: Expanding A Castle Town And A Barracks

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Then he ordered the building of the Realm's FIRST War Elephant Pens in Bikrampur. He would have his WAR ELEPHANTS!

Spoiler: Elephants!

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In May he realized his Dynasty was missing something important. Jewels. Royal Family Jewels. So he asked his Courtiers and staff to search for a goldsmith.

Spoiler: Searching For A Goldsmith

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As he waited for a goldsmith to be found he received mixed news from his Queen. She was pregnant with child. Lovely!

Spoiler: A NEW Baby On The Way

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So we close this chapter with many new building projects, a new baby on the way, and a Despot who was REALLY not happy with a certain Doux who was, as we say now in modern times, REALLY pushing his luck.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Twenty : Family Jewels


Medieval Goldsmith

We open this chapter in May, of the year 873 AD, with the Despot receiving the news that the Doux Pelagios, the bastard of the family, had passed the Ruler War Declaration Sovereignty Law. This was not sometime the Despot had wanted to hear. Who was the Doux planning to go to war with? Many of the titles he wanted BELONGED to the Despot.

Spoiler: Doux Pelagios Passes The Ruler War Declaration Sovereignty Law

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At least with less than a thousand soldiers the Doux could not really be planning to go to war with anybody. One hoped.

In June the Despot was alerted, by his Spymaster, that Loukas Dysnomia was planning to kill Jayapala of the House of Pavakid. Seems they were rivals.

Spoiler: Loukas Dysnomia Plans To Kill A Rival

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Not wanting to have his family start a feud with another family he had the Spymaster tell Loukas to stop it. The Despot himself asked the two backers, his Upadhyayani and one of his Courtiers, to back out of it also.

Spoiler: The Despot Tells The Backers To Back Out

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As the plotter and the backers backed out he was told by his Protostrator that Commander Sigurdr(?) had become skilled at defense.

Spoiler: Commander Sigurdr Learns The Art Of Defense

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Near the end of the month he was called to the nearest monastery to join the Society in one of their meetings. It was expected of him. So off he went, this time at a slow pace, in a Royal carriage. It was relaxing and it allowed him to take his mind of the stress of murdering his half-brother.

Spoiler: Off To The Monastery

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While at the monastery he overheard some of the other members, monks, and staff talking about a renowned goldsmith traveling through the Kingdom of Kamarupa. The Despot decided to send a rider to ask her to visit the monastery so he may talk to her about her work.

Spoiler: Searching For A Goldsmith

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There history books get a tad confused. It is said the goldsmith was taken to the Palace to meet the Despot but all evidence points to him being at the monastery. The facts seem to suggest that she was very close by and arrived only a week later AT the monastery. Romylia the Goldsmith was a Greek woman who refused, for one reason or another, to marry. She was able to show the Despot examples of her work and also had many notes of recommendation. The Despot wanted her to make him the most impressive of jewelry and handed over a chest of gold containing 500 coins.

Spoiler: Romylia The Goldsmith Receives 500 Gold Coins

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This still left him more than a 1,000 gold coins in his treasury so he was far from poor. The woman agreed to the commission and set up a smithy outside the monastery. Once again some histories say she set up her smithy at the Palace but this is in conflict with first person accounts and the Despot's own journals.

One day, according to the Despot's own papers, he was approaching the smithy and found Bhikshuni Sergia chatting with the goldsmith. Seems they were talking about metals and such things that smiths talked about. The Despot did not understand a word of it but decided to let them be.

Spoiler: The Goldsmith Makes A Friend?

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While waiting for the jewels to be finished he ran into Sakadagami Krishnaroy. They seemed to get along and the Despot started to discuss with the other member the fine details of managing a Realm.

Spoiler: The Despot Tries To Make A Friend

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In August, while enjoying the sight of two bees fighting over a flower in the garden of the monastery, a messenger brought the Ruler a letter. After breaking the seal he found it to be from his Magistros. It was a small matter. Seems he had improved the Despot's relationship with the Baron of Numaligarh.

Spoiler: The Magustros Helps A Baron Come To See The Despot In A Better Light

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By mid August it was clear that - while Sakedagami Krishnaroy had enjoyed his time with the Despot - it was unlikely they would become good friends anytime soon.

Spoiler: The Despot Fails To Make A Friend

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In September the Despot received wonderful news when Romylia brought him a heavy box containing the two newest objects for the Royal Treasury.

Spoiler: The Items Are Finished!

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The first item was a Bejeweled Dagger which had sapphires and amethysts in the handle. Not rare. A few wealthy Nobles and Houses had such daggers but still a wonderful addition to the collection.

Spoiler: A Dagger And A Necklace

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The second item was a Necklace of Radiance. Made of gold and rubies it glowed like flames when the light hit it. Not something the Despot had seen a lot of, more rare, and something he felt was truly worthy of adding to the collection of his Royal House.

So we close this chapter with TRUE treasures being added to the treasury and the Despot in a good mood.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Twenty-One : A Very Busy Party


Tibetan Buddhism

We open this chapter in September, of the year 873 AD, with the Magistros improving the Despot's relations with Doux Adrianos of Lhasa. This was good because the Doux was a Noble who wanted a seat on the Council. So keeping him happy and of a high opinion of the Despot was important.

Spoiler: Magistros Improved The Despot's Relation With Doux Adrianos Of Lhasa

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The Despot WAS impressed by how many children the man had produced. If even a SMALL number survived to adulthood that would be a LOT of Greek Buddhists in the Duchy of Lhasa.

Around the same time Romylia the Goldsmith vanished. She had finished her job and left. No evidence can be found to where she went to or why she was such a wanderer.

A few days later the Training Grounds in the Castle of Haruppeswara were finished.

Spoiler: The Training Grounds In Haruppeswara Are Complete

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Near the end of the month the Despot noticed there was a Bishop of Dambuk which did not please him. He sent a gift but sadly it was not enough to get the man to agree to convert.

Spoiler: A Small Gift Is Sent

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In October Count Boethios of Kotivasrsa, one of the well-behaved sons of the departed Countess Anastasia "The Unfaithful", passed the Religious Control Mandate Law. As he was Buddhist this was totally acceptable.

Spoiler: Count Boethios Passes The Religious Control Mandate Law

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In November the Tibetan-Norse of the County of Banbar converted to the Buddhist Faith. This was great news as it would not only strengthen the Buddhist Morale Authority but also decrease the risk of revolt due to religious differences.

Spoiler: The Count Of Banbar Is Now Buddhist

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The Bhikshuni Sergia was then sent to the Tibetan Plateau to try to do the same thing to the Christians there.

Spoiler: Now to Convert The Tibetan Plateau

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That same month the Great King Gopala Pala received a new Robe. It was likely a gift from the Chinese. The Despot wondered which items he would receive when his father died and which items would go to other family members.

Spoiler: Father Gets Some New Robes

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At this point the Despot decided it was time for another seasonal feast. He sent out invites to all his Vassals and ordered that the staff start to decorate the Palace with flowers.

Spoiler: Let Us Have A Seasonal Feast!

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When it came time to getting his wife a gift he decided on a jeweled necklace. He had heard that the First Despot had done so for his wives and the young Ruler decided he was wealthy enough to do the same.

Near the end of month the guests started to arrived. They were met with tumbling clowns and trays piled high with food and glasses of wine. The feast had begun!

Spoiler: Let's Get This Feast On The Way

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Then he received horrible news in December. The Mayor Narasingha of Malda, one of the backers of his murderous plot, a man who was NOT known for drinking, go drunk in a local tavern and told everybody about the plot.

Spoiler: But Mayor Narasingha WAS NOT A Drinker!

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"How can this happen!" demanded the Despot when he was told the news. "The man was not a heavy drinker."

"Well," said one of the staff, "we think somebody ELSE leaked the information and put blame on the Mayor."

The Despot spent much of the early part of the party in the corner of one of the dining rooms away from most of the guests. He was drinking cup after cup of wine while waiting for reports from his staff. It seemed that, to be honest, most of his Vassals didn't care. The only two people in India who cared about his exposed plot was his father, who felt his son was dishonorable, and his half-brother, who now hated him.

Spoiler: Only Two People Seemed Upset With The Plot

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Funny enough Rajkumar Gopala had not gone into hiding. Even though he knew his brother was out to kill him. Maybe his Stepmother and Guardian was not allowing him too? After all, she was one of the backers.

Then, to top it all off, his wife had to leave the party to give birth to their next child. On the 13th of December she gave birth to a baby boy which she named Raphail. A not very common Greek name, which came from the Hebrew name Rafael, which meant "God has healed". Once again not a bad choice from a woman who's first language was Chinese.

Spoiler: Prince Raphail Is Born

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The Despot decided that the best thing for Raphail was to learn how to struggle. As the second son he would have a LOT of struggling to do in life and he had better learn how to handle it.

Spoiler: Raphail Would Grow Up A Warrior

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So we end this chapter with a new baby boy, the plot being exposed to the public, a party fill of gossiping Vassals, and a Despot who was less than happy. Very, very, VERY unhappy indeed.
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Author's End Notes:

OOC: What the heck happened? Every backer of the plot was selected very carefully! How did one of them get DRUNK?!?!

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Twenty-Two : A Religious Journey


Time To Visit Sanchi

We open this chapter in December, of the year 873 AD, with the Despot leaving the party to accept a more detailed report about how his Vassals were reacting to the knowledge that he was trying to murder his half-brother. They were taking it pretty well.

Spoiler: Vassals' Opinions

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Only the Doux of Yarlung was angry at the Despot and, to be honest, he had been angry to start with. On top of that all the Religious Vassals seemed okay with the Despot. But to be honest the Buddhists had always been a tad blood thirsty.

Spoiler: The Religious Vassals

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He returned to the party to present to his tired wife a bright shiny necklace. A perfect gift for a woman who had just gone through child birth.

Spoiler: The Gift And The High Point Of The Party

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When the high point of the celebration came the Despot was in a slightly better mood. The reveal of his plot had done little damage to his Vassals' opinions and he really didn't care what his father or the Pala branch of the family felt about him. Still, when the feast came to an end he felt some relief. Being surrounded by all those Nobles and Courtiers, with their staring eyes, judging him, had been a chore. At least the PARTY had gone well.

Spoiler: Time To Go Home People

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After the party he was notified of a NEW half-brother. This was GREAT news. The boy was the son of a Concubine. In fact Mahendra was the son of one of the Despot’s backers. Ratnavati "The Unfaithful" would now have a even greater reason to make sure the plot succeed. For now her son might benefit. He could be the one to inherit the Kingdom of Bihar! And, yes, the Despot was happy with that.

Spoiler: The NEW Half-Brother

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After all, the woman liked the Despot. And if the boy grew up with a good opinion of his Royal half-brother then there was chances for alliances or even marriages in the future between the two branches. Maybe the Bihar could be brought into the Realm peacefully? Unlikely but in the game of politics one needed to think five moves ahead.

In January of the new year Doux Ananta of Varendra came of age and demanded that the Nobles give him more soldiers than coin. Did all the Nobles in the Realm think of nothing but war?

Spoiler: The Doux Ananta of Varendra Comes Of Age

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Later that month the people celebrated the years of peace under their new Despot. The Realm had prospered and everybody had benefited from it.

Spoiler: The Benefits of Peace

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He decided the next goal was to groom his eldest son to become the next Heir. Unless he got a daughter in the future, of course.

Spoiler: Groom A New Heir

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He himself decided that his own NEW focus, his personal goal, would be to make the Buddhists happy. In other words he would pursue a life of prayer and meditation and look like a good Buddhist.

Spoiler: Religious Studies

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The announcement was enough to please the Society and the Arahnat himself sent the Despot a letter.

Spoiler: A Nice Letter From The Society

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At that point the Despot also announced he was going on a pilgrimage to one of the Holy Sites. But which one should he pick? Travel to any of them was not what one would call safe.

Spoiler: On A Pilgrimage To The Sanchi Stupa

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In the end he decided to go to Sanchi. There was the Sanchi Stupa. One of the oldest stone structures in India it was built to hold the relics of the Buddha by the Great Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd Century BCE. It had since grown into a massive complex of temples and monasteries. It as a very popular site as even foreign devotees had been known to visit it. Some had come all the way from Europe!

So we close this chapter with the Despot preparing for a very long journey.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Twenty-Three : Off To The Holy Site


A Hunting Accident

We open this chapter in March, of the year 874 AD, with the Despot planning out his journey to Sanchi. Much of the way could be traveled by water with the last leg he and his men could travel by horse and wagon. Well, he would ride the wagon and his Guards would ride horses. The Holy Site was in the Count of Vidisa which was populated by Jains - Followers of Jainism.

Spoiler: The Map

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Yet the vassal in charge of the site was Hindu. Seems that there was, in fact, some Hindu mixed in among the populace. And he a very low opinion of the Despot.

Spoiler: The Holy Site

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Jains believed that all animals, plants, and humans contained living souls. As all souls were of equal value they should all be treated with respect and compassion. Thus, they were strict vegetarians and tried to live in a way that used little of nature's resources. There were no gods or spiritual beings to help guide humans. It was all about self-help. They didn't even have Priests though they did have Monks and Nuns.

As the Despot selected what to take with him and had his agents search for boat owners who could be trusted he received word that the Mayor Vagn of Dzongsar was in Markam trying to find something to help him legitimize a claim on it for his Liege. The Despot ordered his death.

Spoiler: Mayor Vagn Needs To Die

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Mayor Vagn worked as Councilor for Count Jau Gou'er of Dege. The Count was one of the many Nobles to the north who use to be Horse Lords. Seems they were having issues expanding northwards against the Horse Lords they use to be related to and some of them were now eyeing the Despot's lands to the south.

Spoiler: Mayor Vagn Works For Count Jau Gou'er

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As he continued to pack and prepare for the trip he received a not from his step-mother. It seemed Rajkumar Gopala was going on a hunting trip and the hunter that had been selected to go with the young boy had been bribed to make sure he never returned.

Spoiler: His Half-Brother Goes Hunting

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Then he heard that the assassins sent to kill the Chancellor, Mayor Vagn, had failed and he continued to work at the claim. In the end the Despot didn't care. The Count would never be able to raise enough men to take Markam anyway.

Spoiler: The Assassins Fail

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On the early hours of the 18th of March the Despot and his Body Guards went down to the docks to embark with the half-dozen boats that had been hired to take them about two-thirds of the way via the rivers. He did so openly. After all, he had announced to everybody he was going to it was too late to hide it now.

Spoiler: Time To Start The Journey

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A day after he left the Doux Ioustinoas "The Just" of Bhutan, happy to be back on the Council, took over as the Regent. Hopefully the fact he was now insane would not hurt the Regency.

Spoiler: The Start Of The Regency

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River travel had its advantages. You could travel both day and night, if you wished, and you could have all the fresh fish you can catch. Stopping at the towns along the way also gave the party access to news and local wines. In fact nothing bad happened till they disembarked and started the land leg of the journey.

There was nothing wrong with the Despot's wagon. It was a nice wagon. And the horses supplied to the Guards and staff were serviceable. But it turned out that one of the local Rajas had a toll booth set up. If by tool booth I mean forced people, like pilgrims and merchants, who were moving through his lands to hand over a large part of their wealth. The Despot refused and had his men attack the mounted warriors. They were able to force the warriors to retreat and the Despot became known for being Brave.

Spoiler: Ambush!

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A day afterwards, as they traveled through one of the small villages, a rider met them and delivered a few messages. One was from the backers. I seems the hunter had done his job. The Rajkumar Gopala was dead. And nobody knew what had happened or who was to blame!

Spoiler: The Hunter Did Not Fail And The Doux Is Given A Vagus Promise

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The other was from Doux Merzuban who wanted a Vassal of lower rank to be transferred to him. The Despot sent back a reply with some vague promises and forgot about it.

A day later almost everybody on the roads was talking about the suspicious circumstances of Gopala Pala's death. And so shortly after a new baby brother, who could claim his titles, was born.

Spoiler: A Terrible Accident And A New Heir To Bihar

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Mahendra would not have a good time of it. He was sickly child which meant he could easily die before adulthood. And the son of a Concubine which meant many of his future vassals already had a bad opinion of him. But he survived all that he might make a good ally.

The Despot sent his Concubine and Spymaster Xiuying orders to go to the County of Taktse to spy on Doux Merzuban. He and his Independence Faction was a thorn in the Realm's sides and the Despot wanted both dealt with.

Spoiler: Doux Merzuban Needs To Be Dealt With

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Later that month the Despot came upon a unknown city with a amazing mixture of wealth and poverty. He could have stopped to rest and enjoy the city life but decided to keep going. Hr knew people were watching him, judging him, remembering everything he did. He would not look weak in front of them. He would show them.

Spoiler: Must Keep Going

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Finally they arrived at Sanchi! Temples, and Stupas, and Monasteries, and food vendors, and tourist traps, and tour guides, oh my! Just as he had always pictured it in his mind.

Spoiler: Sanchi!

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In May he received news that his father FINALLY defeated the Ayudha Kingdom, which meant the Kingdom of Pala now controlled one of the Buddhist Holy Sites.

Spoiler: Pala Defeats Ayudha

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So we close the chapter with the Despot visiting one Holy Site while the Kingdom of Pala took another. Oh, and his half-brother died from an accident.
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Author's End Notes:

OOC: Funny enough Sanchi, which is a REAL LIFE Holy Site, is not a Holy Site on the Religious Map in CKII. BUT you can travel to it as a pilgrim. As a Holy Site. Weird.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Twenty-Four : The Cynical Pilgrim


Alms! Alms For An Old Blind Man!

We open this chapter in May, of the year 874 AD, with the Despot still at the Holy Site of Sanchi. It had been a long and dangerous journey with its up and downs. Yet he had made it. And yet, even while away from the Palace he was still a Ruler, plotting and scheming. For example he asked his father if he could have the Fox back. Not as a Courtier but as his Concubine. His father seemed to be okay with the request. This was likely because the Great King Gopala TRULY suspected her of being an assassin.

Spoiler: The Despot Asks For His Fox Back

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Even as the messenger left with the request the Despot noticed his Body Guards and staff looking at him with strange looks.

"She is dangerous in the wrong hands," he explained without being asked. "And also my current Spymaster is getting older." The Guards and staff nodded at this. It made some sense.

Then his attention went to Count Isaias of Kunggar. The boy wasn't the problem. It was his Regent being the BISHOP of Dambuk. The Despot wanted that man out or, if it could be done, converted. So he decided one way was to replace the Count's Guardian.

Spoiler: That Bishop Needed To Be Dealt With

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She was a perfectly functional Guardian but the Despot requested she get replaced by Mayor Serapion of Sutrapur. Who was not just scholarly but also ZEALOUS! And if the Count became a Zealous Buddhist by the time he became an adult he would likely force the Bishop to convert without any input from the Despot.

Spoiler: The Despot Requested The Count Take On A New Guardian

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A few days later, as the Despot was walking through the crowded streets of the temple complex, he received a letter from his Council. It seems the Raja Ghatamdeva of the Bhar Raj had joined the Faction to Increase Council Power within the Kingdom of Pala. In other words, a future trouble maker.

Spoiler: A Trouble Maker Of The Future

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By the middle of May a few more letters found the Despot. One of them said that Sophia "The Fox" had arrived in the Royal Court back home and the Despot was pleased. One more intelligent weapon for his use if he needed it.

Spoiler: The Fox Was Back

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And it seemed she was VERY pleased to be under his roof again.

Spoiler: And The Fox Was Happy

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Another letter was from his Magistros Ioustinos. Seems he had improved the Despot's relation with Doux Ananta. This also pleased the Despot.

Spoiler: Relations With Doux Ananta Was Better

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The Despot took some time to write a letter to his Council giving them permission to give a gift to Pantoleon of 15 gold coins. This increased the young man's opinion of the Despot and, once again, he was pleased.

Spoiler: A Gift Helped Improve The Relation With Pantoleon

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Sadly the Despot found his experience from visiting a Holy Site empty. Maybe it was the cheap tourist crap or the temples demanding money for prayers. Maybe it was the fact that it was hard to tell the difference between the homeless asking for coins and the Monks asking for alms.

Spoiler: My Buddha Bobble Head Does Nothing For My Faith

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As the Despot, with his wagon and his mounted Body Guards and the pile of worthless gifts he had bought for family and friends, left the site he received news from Count Isaias. Seems he had accepted Mayor Serapion as his new Guardian.

Spoiler: Count Isaias Accepted Mayor Serapion As His Guardian

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On the way back home, while riding in the wagon and later in the boat, the Despot wondered if the Holy Site was as important as the journey itself. Maybe the thoughts and ideas that such travels generated were more important than the relics and artifacts that were housed in Holy Sites? He decided it was truly something to ponder.

Spoiler: Maybe Life Was More Than Snow Globes?

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During one of the stops along the rivers to buy some wine to go with his freshly cooked fish the Despot overhead that his father wanted to build a war chest. Interesting. Very interesting.

Spoiler: Father Wants Money

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On the way home he was also notified that while the Kingdom of Pala controlled the Holy Site of Sarnath it was still directly controlled by a Hindu vassal. So it was only semi under control of the Buddhist Faith.

Spoiler: Semi-Good News?

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A few days later the boats reached the Capital and the Despot, with his party, returned to the Palace. The journey had done very little to increase his Faith. In fact he felt disappointed.

Spoiler: Home Sweet Home

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He was given a day to settle in before the Regent stepped down.

So we close this chapter with the Despot returning from his travels Brave but also Cynical. A mixed blessing if it could be called a blessing.

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Twenty-Five : Back To The Normal Grind


Information Is Rarely Free

We open the chapter in June, of the year 874 AD, with the Despot back on the throne of the Realm. He was now brave if also cynical. He now had a second Concubine and his first one, Wu Xiuying, who had just turned 50 was still his very loyal and very talented Spymaster. It is said by first person accounts that she had aged very well.

Spoiler: Back On The Throne And In Charge

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He had more than six thousand warriors and more than a thousand gold coins worth of wealth in the coffers.

Now he just had to get back to work. Putting the nose to the old grindstone. Not that the Despot had ever worked at a mill. Nor had he ever had to check to make sure to see if the mill stones were burning the flour. But what I mean is he was now back in his normal place - being a Ruler.

And when he received his first piece of news he was somewhat suspicious of it. It seems that Doux Ananta of Varendra provided the Despot with proof that Baron Eustathios of Nalrajar Garh was slandering his Liege. The Despot was slightly confused by this information. He decided to keep this information to himself.

Spoiler: Why Are You Telling Me This?

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The reason he held the information was because he didn't know WHY the Doux wanted the Baron to get in trouble. They were not rivals. And why just hand it over to the Despot?

Also the Doux was the least trustworthy of the two Vassals as he had claims that the Despot held and a lower opinion of his Liege. The Despot just had, what we would call, red flags all over the place.

Spoiler: Who To Trust?

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The Baron on the other hand had been shown to be loyal to the Realm after DECADES of service in the military and years of service on the Council. He had received his title as a result of such loyalty. The Despot doubted that such a man could slander him and just refused to believe the Doux.

A few days later the Despot was told that Doux Adrianos of Lhasa had placed Asian Istoru fyrt in the dungeons. There was no mystery here. The man was a Pagan, a Tengri, and the Doux saw him as a Infidel. So he was imprisoned.

Spoiler: A Pagan Is Jailed

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Around the same time the Despot was surprised when it was announced that a City, named Comai, had been finished in a holding in the County of Taktse. That suggested a lot of money had been spent. Where had Doux Merzuban collected it and why spend it on a city?

Spoiler: A Vassal Has A New City?

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A lowborn named Pazir was made the Mayor and the city become a Republic. The only problem with the new Mayor was that making a profit wasn't his best skill.

Spoiler: Mayor Pazir

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Near the end of the month the Despot sent a request for promotion within the Savaka-Sangha. He knew the reply might take some time and he settled down to wait.

Spoiler: Promote ME!

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While waiting it was announced in July that Aslan Istoru fyrt (of the House ve Partav) had been exiled by the Doux Adrianos. Which was nice of the Doux. Better for the Pagan to be released than killed.

Spoiler: The Paga Is Banished

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So we end this chapter with the Despot back in charge and in our next chapter we will be visiting the top seven military powers of the known world. One of which may be also looked at as the first Super-Power of the known world!

[Valley]

Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter Three Hundred-Twenty-Six : The World Turned Upside Down


The NEW Roman Empire Or A Dead End?

Welcome to the next chapter. It was the 9th of July, of the year 874 AD, and we are going to list the top seven military powers of the known world on that date. And the one on top of the list just wasn't a military power but also might be defined as a true Super Power! Welcome to the Aztec Empire! With over one hundred-twenty thousand warriors and fifty-two vassals it had spread from Spain to Greece, and from the Alps to Africa. And it had its sights on Middle Francia.

Spoiler: Aztec Empire

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It may have looked unstoppable. It may have looked all powerful. It had defeated all other foes in its past wars. Including the Mighty Byzantine Empire. And yet it looked like the Aztec was losing this one. Why? Because it had become a threat to EVERYBODY!

King Adalbert II of the House of Karling had just under two thousand soldiers but also had over thirty allies! Including the Pope, the Badshad Abbad (the Spanish Moors), the Queen of Powys (the Welsh), the Kingdom of Asturias (more Moors), the Byzantine Empire (the Greeks), and even the Republic of Venice.

Spoiler: Middle Francia

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Just look at the list! Muslims and Christians, Saxons and Scots, Europeans and Africans, all had decided to ignore nationalities, to dismiss borders. and not worry about religious differences so as to deal with the threat from across the ocean. Even WEST FRANCIA had joined in on the defense. Yes, Hell had totally frozen over and the Devil was unemployed.

So let us leave the Aztec Empire and move onto the next Realm on our list. One right next door. One of the Aztec's enemies, one of the most powerful of the old Realms, the Byzantine Empire! Ruled by Basilissa Romylia who, at 33 years of age, commanded over fourteen thousand soldiers and seemed to have the skills needed to keep the Empire under her control.

Spoiler: Byzantine Empire

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And it had been rough times as the Aztec had taken many territories from her and her people. No doubt it had forced her to ally herself with many strange people. Some of these Rulers and Realms had been her enemy only a few years ago. But now her soldiers fought along side Moorish Horsemen and Papal Knights. And even as she fought the good fight she still had to deal with ravaging Hosts! Was there no honor in this world?

So we move onto the next Realm on our list. Maybe the only peaceful Empire on the map at the time - the Arabian Empire. Ruled by the thirteen year old Caliph Zeyd. Not much to say about the boy. He commanded over eighteen thousand warriors and had MANY claims. There were many holdings that had broken off during the rebellions and he wanted them back. The Aztecs were too far away for him to think of as a threat. So he had yet to join a Pact or be in any wars. Yet.

Spoiler: Arabian Empire

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And when he goes to war he would likely target the next Realm on the list. Right next door we will be visiting Al-Jazira! Ruled by Caliph Mirza of the House Mirzid the young Ruler had over thirteen thousand soldiers and was already in trouble.

Spoiler: Al-Jazira

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You see he was dealing with a Revolt. So the Kingdom created by a Revolt was now dealing with its own Revolt. Not good. Not good at all. Now, for the next Realm on our list we have to fly east to India.

Once again we visit the Great King of Punjab. Not much had changed. He was dealing with a invading Host but with over eight thousand soldiers he should be able to handle it. Too bad about the whole "can't have children" thing but I am sure whoever inherits the Realm will be just as badass as past Rulers.

Spoiler: Punjab

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The next Realm on the list was very close by. Yes, the Kingdom of Kamarupa. What were THEY doing here? I blame the Aztec. Anyway, the Despot Niphon of the House of Dysnomia now had two children, both males, and two Concubines, both dangerous Ninjas. He was strong and brave if a tad cynical.

Spoiler: Kamarupa

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Luckily his Vassals seemed to love him and are prepared to give him all the levies he asked for. Which was somewhat rare to see. And what people didn't realize was his Queen COULD call forth her own Royal Guard in times of conflict. She could call forth one thousand five hundred Chinese warriors if the Despot asked her to. A wonderful bonus to the Realm's military power when the need came. Add his wealth and he might be on the list a few more times. MAYBE. I think he is a fad. Like his mum.

Now for the last Realm on the list. We head back west to Spain to the Hispania Empire. Also known as the Umayyad Empire. Like many of the major powers of Europe it was trying to defend Middle Francia. It WAS also trying to protect the young Kingdom of Asturias from invasion by one of the Aztec Chiefs. Yes, the Umayyad Empire was helping a former Revolt defend itself from a Aztec Chief. Which the Asturias were winning against.

Spoiler: Hispania

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Sadly, they were being invaded by more than one Chief! Meet King Veremondo of Asturias, the second King of the Kingdom, and a boy in his first MAJOR war with the Aztec Empire. But also the target of five invading Aztec Chiefs! And with less than seven hundred men I see a future where there will not be a Kingdom of Asturias. Poor kid.

Spoiler: Asturias

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Before we end the chapter let us take a look at one of these Chiefs, okay? Let us pick Chief Zolin of Calatayud. His first wife was dead and he had married a local European Roman Catholic who disliked him. And he didn't like her much either. He had two daughters, one from each wife, and had over six hundred screaming warriors.

Spoiler: Chief Zolin Of Calatayud

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But he was in debt and his titles would likely be inherited by the Emperor. Also six hundred men were not a lot when you were in two conflicts.

What holds my interest here is the thought about what happens when the next generation become the new Nobles of the Aztec Empire? Will they embrace the religion and culture of their fathers from across the sea? Or follow the ways of their mothers and embrace the local heritage? Will the Aztec Empire become stable and "stand the test of time"? Or will it crumble into a bunch of broken states all fighting each other for the title of Emperor of the Aztec?

Only time will tell. Thank you readers for joining me on this little journey and in our next chapter we will head back to India and return to the events of the Realm of Kamarupa.

[Valley]

Dear Folks,

You may already know this but lately many CKII players are having a hard time as mouse input seems sluggish or delayed. It is making it VERY hard to play a game. As a important MAJOR event within my game was coming up which required good, on the spot, reactions and good timing this has caused me a problem. I can barely play the game.

Like I said other players are having the same problem and have tried to solve it. Everything from reinstalling, removing Mods, and other, more advanced, actions. It has been decided that something in the last update messed up the games. In other words a player can't correct the issue - the update is somehow interacting with the games, or game DLCs, in such a way as to be causing the issue. And Paradox Interactive has become aware of this and even has a "Ticket" - in other words they are working on it.

When will it be fixed? I don't know. But until it is this game will have to be put on hold.

Sorry about that.