Principia Moderni IV (Map Game)

With the Ming Dynasty ruling over the vast lands of China, the Hundred Years War is still raging on between England and France. Europe is still stuck in the old ways of feudalism and chivalry while the notions of a New World are considered figments of imagination. We welcome you to the long awaited fourth expansion of that immortal series. Welcome to Principia Moderni IV! Starting in 1400 AD, this is the dawn of the modern world and the tail end of the Middle Ages. The Renaissance is just kicking off in Europe, while the nations in the western side of the continent are locked in the last gasp of the Hundred Years War. The Muslim world is still reeling from the invasions of Turks and Mongols, with the Caliphate resting in the collapsing Mamluk Egypt and the Ottomans on the rise in Anatolia. Make it count.

The first game was the most successful on the wiki, leading all the way to the modern day with mostly plausible posts and little controversy. The second game reached almost to the modern day, but failed due to a plethora of ASB events and moderator bias. The third game was much more worthy of the first, almost running into implausibility but climbing back into a shining glory by the end. Riding on the latest reforms of map games since the end of PMIII, this is the most logical next step in that evolution. Remember  above all other rules — have fun.

The Map
1440 AD

Important Pages

 * Rules and Algorithm
 * Holy Roman Empire
 * Feudal Dynasties
 * College of Cardinals

Active
If you wish to be a moderator, contact Scraw.
 * For now on mods are assigned to hemispheres to do modding --Nate
 * Lord Commander Scraw - India/South Asia
 * First Ranger Edgeofnight - Americas
 * First Steward CourageousLife - something
 * First Builder JoshTheRoman - Africa
 * Commander of the Shadow Tower Monster Pumpkin - Eastern Europe/Balkans
 * Septon Nathan1123 - East/Southeast Asia
 * Commander of the Eastwatch by the Sea Reximus55 -  Mid East/Central Asia
 * Master at Arms SkyGreen24 - Western/Northern Europe
 * Maester (Checks the mods): Callumthered - creeps on everyone
 * Mapmaker NicDonalds

Honorary

 * Former First Steward ForsakenPear

Guidelines

 * Nations in bold are reserved for users of plausible reputation.
 * If you want to be a tribal nation, add the name tribe into their respective region. They are not shown on the map.
 * Personal Union - A monarch rules over two nations. If this is the case, these nations are in an alliance, but are not played by the same player. They are not a vassal unless stated otherwise.
 * Dynastic Union - Two nations have a monarch of the same dynasty. If this is the case, these nations are not in alliance and are not played by the same player. They are not vassals unless stated otherwise. However, if the cadet branch of the dynasty dies out, the main branch can inherit. However, if the main dynasty dies out, the cadet branch can not inherit.
 * Vassal/Client Nations - Are automatically played by controlling nation unless stated otherwise.
 * When posting as your nation, make sure you use the name of your nation that is directly on the nation list or something similar to it.

British Isles

 * Earldom of Desmond-RedDragon2000
 * Kingdom of England -  SwankyJ   The Italian    Stallion   _


 * Principality of Wales (Under English Control) -  SwankyJ   The Italian    Stallion   _
 * Kingdom of Southern Scotland (Under English Control) -  SwankyJ   The Italian    Stallion   _
 * Kingdom of Northern Scotland (Vassal of England) -  SwankyJ   The Italian    Stallion   _
 * Dublin (Irish City-State Under English Control) -  SwankyJ   The Italian    Stallion   _

France

 * Kingdom of France / Valois - NicDonalds
 * Marquisate of Saluzzo - NicDonalds
 * Duchy of Provence - NicDonalds
 * Duchy of Burgundy (Dynastic Union with Valois) - I am that guy (talk)
 * County of Burgundy (Personal Union under the Duchy of Burgundy) - I am that guy (talk)
 * Flanders (Personal Union with Burgundy) - I am that guy (talk)
 * Duchy of Brittany (vassal of France/PU of England) - NicDonalds /  SwankyJ   The Italian    Stallion   _
 * Duchy of Orléans (Dynastic Union with Valois) - NicDonalds
 * Blois (Personal Union under Orléans) - NicDonalds
 * Dunois (Personal Union under Orléans) - NicDonalds
 * Périgord (Personal Union under Orléans) - NicDonalds
 * Parthenay - NicDonalds
 * Kingdom of Navarre (Personal Union with France) - NicDonalds
 * Corsica: Nic
 * Avignon - "This is not your grave  but you are welcome in it. "

Iberian Peninsula

 * Crown of Aragon — WikiBuilder1147
 * Sicily — WikiBuilder1147
 * Sardinia — WikiBuilder1147
 * Crown of Castile -
 * Kingdom of Gibraltar - ~Edge
 * Kingdom of Morocco - ~Edge
 * Liguria: ~Edge
 * Athens: ~Edge
 * Madeira: ~Edge
 * Kingdom of Portugal -

Italy

 * Kingdom of Italy  -  Rex
 * Duchy of Milan -  Rex
 * Duchy of Savoy - Rex
 * Kingdom of Naples  (Personal Union with Italy)  - Rex
 * Corfu - Rex
 * Ionia - Rex
 * The Papal States  - "This is not your grave  but you are welcome in it. "
 * Ancona - "This is not your grave  but you are welcome in it. "
 * Bologna - "This is not your grave  but you are welcome in it. "
 * Montefeltro -  " This is not your grave    but you are welcome in it.  "
 * Perugia -  " This is not your grave    but you are welcome in it.  "
 * Piombino -
 * Modena -
 * Mantua -
 * Ferrara -
 * d'Asti -
 * Padua -

Balkans

 * Duchy of Naxos - NathanialPrice
 * Ottoman Empire - Bozistanball
 * Serbia -  Bozistanball
 * Wallachia -  Bozistanball
 * Dulkadir -  Bozistanball
 * Epirus - Bozistanball
 * Roman Empire -The.Brick.Battle (talk) 01:24, August 21, 2016 (UTC)
 * Lemnos -
 * Morea -
 * Knights of St. John (Rhodes) - Callumthered (talk)
 * Trebizond (Gurkani vassal) - Rimp
 * Zeta -
 * Raska -
 * Dukagjini -
 * Croia (vassal of Naples) - Rex
 * Berat -

Scandinavia

 * Kingdom of Denmark - KawaiiKame (talk)
 * Greenland - KawaiiKame (talk)
 * Holstein -KawaiiKame (talk)
 * Kingdom of Norway -
 * Iceland-Belial
 * Faroes -Belial
 * Shetland -Belial
 * Orkney -Belial
 * Kingdom of Sweden (In Personal Union with Denmark) - ~AM

Russia

 * Grand Boyardom of Russia - Crim de la Kremlin - "Seizing the means of production and making sweet love. That's the stuff of life." - Karl Marx 19:18, July 18, 2016 (UTC)
 * Republic of Pskov - Supergamer1

Baltic

 * Teutonic Order - EiplecOco

Holy Roman Empire
(Underline indicates Prince-Electors)

Alpine

 * Swiss Confederacy - Patriot40

Bohemia

 * Kingdom of Bohemia - Blocky858 (talk)
 * Moravia - Blocky858 (talk)
 * Silesia - Blocky858 (talk)
 * Saxony - Blocky858 (talk)
 * Meissen - Blocky858 (talk)

Low Countries

 * County of Holland -
 * County of Hainut (Personal Union under Holland) -
 * Duchy of Lorraine -
 * Duchy of Brabant (Personal Union under Burgundy) - I am that guy (talk)
 * Duchy of Limburg (Personal Union under Burgundy) - I am that guy (talk)

German

 * Margraviate of Brandenburg - With Blood and Iron (talk)
 * Duchy of Luxembourg (Personal Union under Bradenburg) - With Blood and Iron (talk)
 * Cologne (Archbishopric)  -  NonsensicalJourney  ( talk
 * Essen - NonsensicalJourney (talk)
 * Free City of Hamburg - Redbaran45 (talk)
 * Landgraviate of Hesse -
 * Duchy of Jülich - Willster22 (User talk:Willster22)
 * Geldern - Willster22 (User talk:Willster22)
 * Berg (Dynastic Union with Jülich) -
 * Bavaria (Personal Union with Austria)
 * Duchy of Thuringen - Scarlet Outlaw
 * Mainz -
 * Bremen -
 * Prince-bisphoric of Trier -
 * Oldenburg - Newalle
 * Archduchy of Austria -Lx (leave me a message)Azarath Flag.png
 * County Palatinate of the Rhine -
 * Mainz (Archbishopric) -
 * Archduchy of Pomerania (annexed by Brandenburg) -
 * Brunswick -

Eastern Europe

 * Hungary -
 * Cilli (Vassal of Hungary) -
 * Croatia - SkyGreen24
 * Republic of Ragusa/Dubrovnik - N/A (possibly rekt)
 * Lithuania - Indiana Bones
 * Poland (Personal Union with Lithuania): Sat(Talk to me!)
 * Moldavia (Vassal of Poland) - Sat (Talk to me!)

Middle East

 * Georgia -
 * Oman -
 * Gurkani Sultanate -
 * Yemen -

North and East Africa

 * Alwah -
 * Abbasid Caliphate - Oh, I didn't mean to push that button! † Oh, well, leave a message I guess


 * Emirate of the Maghreb -
 * Ethiopia - Tharpe
 * Ifat -
 * Mogadishu -Fallacyman (talk)
 * Tripoli -

West Africa

 * Bamoun -
 * Empire of Benin - Flag of the Xanian Empire.svg Flag of Xyon.svg Vivaporius: "I don't need a slogan"
 * Biram -
 * Bornu -
 * Daura -
 * Gobir -
 * Gurma -
 * Ife -
 * Kano -
 * Katsina -
 * Mali Empire - Th3Shad0wSlayer
 * Wagadugu -
 * Wolof -
 * Zamfara -
 * Zaria -
 * Oba Empire -

Sub-Saharan Africa

 * Kingdom of Buganda -
 * Kingdom of Kongo -
 * Kingdom of Rwanda -Warrioroffreedom123
 * City of Zanzibar -
 * Kingdom of Zimbabwe - Nlenhardt

South Asia

 * Andhra -
 * Bahmanis - The Guardian of Forever (talk)
 * Bengal -
 * Delhi Sultanate -
 * Jaffna-
 * Kalinga -
 * Kashmir -
 * Khandesh -
 * Kotte-
 * Mithila -
 * Nepal -
 * Sindh -
 * Vijayanagar Empire -
 * Warangal -

Southeast Asia

 * Assa - LordMarlborough
 * Ayuthia -
 * Champa -
 * Chieng Mai -
 * Kedah - MegaloKaiser
 * Khmer Empire - THIS...   IS...   KHMER!
 * Lan Xang -
 * Pegu -
 * Sukhothai -
 * Toungoo -
 * Vietnam -

Asian Islands

 * Banggai -
 * Becan -
 * Berau -
 * Brunei -
 * Bungku -
 * Buol -
 * Igorot  -
 * Jailolo -
 * Kutei -
 * Laiwu -
 * Majapahit Empire - Through Stars We Rise. (Welcome to the Universe). 21:00, August 17, 2016 (UTC)
 * Order of the Enlightened -
 * Divine Legion of Brahma -
 * Sulu -
 * Ternate -
 * Tidore -
 * Tondo - Erizium (talk)
 * Huangdom of Ma-I - (Tondo vassal/same dynasty) Erizium (talk)
 * Huangdom of Pangasinan - (Vassal) Erizium (talk)

East and Central Asia

 * China (Ming Dynasty) – Yank 02:06, August 26, 2016 (UTC)
 * Japan (Ashikaga Shogunate) –
 * Korea (Yi dynasty)
 * Kingdom of Tibet - Toby2: THEY CALL ME Mr. Awesome!!! 19:30, August 6th, 2016 (UTC)
 * Oirat Khanate -
 * Mongolia -
 * Astrakhan Khanate -
 * Chagatai Khanate -
 * Sakha - Shikata ga nai!
 * Haixi Jurchens (tribe) -

South America

 * Chimu Empire -  -Nova
 * Aymara -
 * Wanka -
 * Sican -
 * Chiribaya -
 * Mapuche -

Mesoamerica

 * Aztecs:
 * Tlacopan (Triple Alliance) -
 * Texcoco (Triple Alliance) -
 * Alotepec -
 * Astatlan  -
 * Ayutitlan  -
 * Azmola  -
 * Chalca  -
 * Chametian  -
 * Cholula  -
 * Coaiztlahuacan  -
 * Coatzacualco  -
 * Coinan  -
 * Colimotl  -
 * Cuitzeo  -
 * Culican  -
 * Guaspaltepec  -
 * Huaxyacac  -
 * Huetzcotzingo  -
 * Huextla  -
 * Hueyacocotlan  -
 * Icpatepec  -
 * Itzyocan  -
 * Matlatzinco  -
 * Mazahuacan  -
 * Metztitlan  -
 * Miahuatlan  -
 * Michoacan  - Thisismacedon
 * Mixtlan  -
 * Nuuntoo  -
 * Oztoman  -
 * Quetzalapan  -
 * Quetzaltepec  -
 * Teloloapan  -
 * Tlaollan  -
 * Tlaxcalan  -
 * Tochpan  -
 * Tollan  -
 * Tollantzinco  -
 * Tolocan  -
 * Tonallan  -
 * Totonacapan -
 * Tototepec  -
 * Ualtepec  -
 * Xaltepec  -
 * Xilotan  -
 * Xiuhcoac  -
 * Xiuhtepec  -
 * Xiquipilco  -
 * Zapotec -

Yucatan

 * Mayapan League - Cour *talk*
 * Acalan
 * Chactemal
 * Chiapan
 * Chilapa
 * Chicomuceltec
 * Chiya
 * Comitan
 * Copanahuastla
 * Cuscatlan
 * Iximche
 * Mapachtepec
 * Mazanahau
 * Potonchan
 * Tayasal
 * Totoncalco
 * Uatlan
 * Yahualulco
 * Xicallanco

North America

 * Mohawk- Sladather
 * Wichita- Kaiserwilhelm3

The Wildlings
All users currently on the wiki may play unless otherwise noted.

Plausibility Strikes
'''Three strikes and you're out! Each strike resets after 30 years of the most recent strike.'''
 * Fallacyman - I (1412)
 * Eric - I (1412)
 * Wrto - I (1415)
 * Nova - I (1432)



1440
Ekkehard's printing press quickly gains fame by the patronage of the Abbess of Essen, and the knoweldge spreads throughout Western Germany, although few invest in it yet

Tadodaho refuses to agree to the peace terms of the Iroquois, as his tribe sees war as a necessary part of their way of life and economy.

A storm at sea destroys the ships of Chimu trying to trade with the Mayans.

The confederacy of clans in central Australia, although extremely thin in population due to the harsh conditions, establishes a meeting place at OTL Ayers Rock, calling themselves the Nation of Uluru.

''' With no opposition in the east, the Uzbek Sultanate sweeps over Iran and begins marching on the city of Esfahan. '''

'''Simply put, that's a "no." Revolts rarely ever (I can not think of an instance) leave their homeland once they've secured it. It is not only too risky from their perspective, but they simply have to hang onto what they've got to succeed. The Uzbeks will stay in their own lands, despite the alliance with the Coalition (as there is no reprecussion for them not being involved). -Rexmod.'''

'''Sorry, I misunderstood the Uzbek event from last turn. -Nate'''

''' NOTE: If you're in the region of Northern and Western Europe (i.e. my region of modding), when you need a mod response don't type mod response, rather type "skyboi you're my only hope" so I know it's part of a region I should be modding. -Sky '''


 * The Gurkani Sultanate:  Amir Ulugh Beg Mirza was proclaimed as the sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 24 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Iskenderun, Trabzon and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanate's forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. To prevent the Sultanate from ever getting hit by a major famine, the individual Amirs also engaged in the storage of food supplies, which would be utilized in case of famine or otherwise exported. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Trabzon. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellery. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate, with all caravans being armed and protected with a small detachment of guards. Meanwhile,  the construction of educational madrassahs continued throughout the Empire, with the Sultan keen on spreading education and knowledge amongst the populace of the Sultanate. The Sultan sought to replicate the Islamic Golden Age that existed during the period of the Abbasids prior to the Mongol Invasion, and accordingly funded the teaching of Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, with Algebra, Geometry, Astronomy, Anatony and Medicine being of prime importance. The Sultanate continued to expand its territories into the Caucasus, Siberia and the Persian Gulf islands.  Zeeshan Beg is declared the new Crown Prince. Meanwhile, with the crushing defeat suffered by the Abbasid forces at Mosul, the body of the dead Caliph Al Najm is found amomgst the pile of corpses and it is subsequently beheaded, with the head being sent to Isfahan. Of the army of 360,000, 200,000 men are sent to fight against the Ottomans forces by intercepting them on the field or retaking Trebizond. The remaining forces remain stationed at Mosul, awaiting further orders.
 * Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultana Saima Daula continued her reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, she would only be answerable to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultana, Rukhsana Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterranean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient.
 * In Aragon, the Royal Bank of Barcelona (Castilian: Banco Real de Barcelona or BRB) continues its tentative recovery from the economic meltdown that followed the dissolution of the Bank of St. George. The BRB's mercantile fleet is brought back into service, establishing trade routes with Aragon's partners, friends and allies. Although at first running a loss due to inflation, the BRB's trade with the Abbasid Caliphate is hoped to eventually become mutually beneficial for our countries. Meanwhile, reconstruction of Barcelona continues, and about a quarter of the city is complete. The Cathedral of St. James opens in Barcelona this year, and is larger and grander than its predecessor. Expansion of Aragonese harbours are complete, and naval expansion continues in earnest. Our Royal Armada's ship numbers grow to 370 this year. Research into improving our handgonnes begin. These weapons are now standard issue throughout the military, and it is hoped improvements will bring more accuracy and firepower into the handgonne. We seek to establish branches of the Royal Bank in French Corsica and Castilian Liguria.
 * The Caliphate agrees to trade.
 * Earl of Desmond (Diplomacy): We ask for a trade deal and want to allow port access and establish Royal Banks in Cork. We also ask you to consider helping us unite Ireland and protect us from England.
 * Aragonese Diplomacy: We are more than happy to establish regional branches of the Royal Bank of Barcelona in Desmond, and trade is established between Aragon and Desmond. While we at this time can not guarantee full protection of Ireland, partially due to the massive distances between Iberia and Britain, as well as the existence of an alliance between Aragon and England, we will do our best to restrain English ambitions in Ireland with our influence as its ally.
 * Per the calculations in the algorithim and your self-reported population, your maximum navy size is 94.5, or 95 ships. Please keep this in mind, as anything above this limit is both against the rules/algo and would strain your economy.


 * Norway: Secret  Seeing an increase in influence in Ireland with our acquistion of Breithyne we offer the state of Desmond an offer of Loose Vassalization under Norwegian protection along with offers to help them unite Ireland (with the exception of Breithyne for the time being). More coming tomorrow


 * NO VASSALIZATION OF IRELAND -sky


 * Earldom of Desmond: We refuse the offer of vassalisation from Norway as we realise that we should not antagonise England further (sorry, Belial, but KK gave me a better offer). We accept the Danish diplomacy and become the vassal of Denmark.  We also build and expand the port at Cork to increase the trade in the Irish Sea. Due to immigration policies around 2000 people move to Cork while we continue to expand roads and infrastructure throughout the Earldom. We begin to build up a navy to protect us from a naval invasion as well as beginning to build a merchant fleet owned by the state. Across the Earldom, we begin building fortifications around our border while be begin concentrating on our army. Schools are being built to encourage literacy.We also seek out allies to protect us from English aggression (Contact me below). To boost our economy we offer port access and trade access, and banks in our lands from foreign countries (feel free to contact diplomatically). We declare war on the MacCarthy's and O'sullivan's to the south(Algo needed).We raise the troops and levies and begin training for war and move against the McCarthy's while three carracks are built and armed with cannon as well as one Birlinn to raid and blockade the McCarthy's.
 *  Danish Dip:  We offer Desmond Danish vassalization. If Desmond accepts they shall be spared from England for we are allies of England and we shall help Desmond in their conquests. All Desmond has to do is renounce their loyality to Norway and swear allegiance to Denmark.
 * Desmond Dip: We have refused the offer of vassalage from Norway and swear allegiance to Denmark. We also want you to join the war against the Irish tribes.
 * SCANDINAVIAN COUNTRIES CAN NOT VASSALIZE IRISH NATIONS!


 * The High Chief of the Wichita apologizes to the Iroquois for the lack of communication, however some internal issues were taking up much time (school). Cheif Kinnekasus states that his firstborn son, Kiarsidia is more than happy to marry Tayanita of the Iroquois. In our period of isolation we have finished mapping and colonizing our new land left by the Crow. We also trained another seven legions, two legions are sent to the Iroquois in order to assist in their possible civil war. Copper clubs are now more popular with one in ten warriors owning one. We also established villages the the Lands-that-Touch-the-Sky (OTL Rockies). With our newfound power, we offer all tribes along the Cahokian River, the protection of membership in the Confederacy (Mod Response).
 * Iroquois Dip: We send our thanks along with Tayanita to live with her new family in Wichita. We also request any knowledge of copper in trade for land around OTL Lake St. Clair to set up trade posts.
 * The Kingdom of England:  With the overwhelming victory in Scotland, the south of Scotland is annexed into the Kingdom of England, and the King Richard decides on how to act on the north. The north of Scotland has fallen into utter disorganization, King Richard, sets up a puppet government with a small council of Celtic leaders, to look over the Northern lands of Scotland, and they will be commanded to answer to the English Crown. England expands its army and economy. Military movements are spread over southern Scotland, and a main garrison is created in Glasgow, as the major military center of southern Scotland. Edinburgh is slowly rebuilt, and King Richard sends his loyal general, General William Scarlet to look over the policies, and setting up in southern Scotland, getting the newly conquered lands organized and suitably governed. With the complete annihaliation of Scottish troops, the English easily move in and respectfully incur force and begin ruling over the lands. King Richard sends thanks to Denmark, not being able to offer gold, so they can continue to build after the war, but cedes Aberdeen, Dundee, Orkney, and the northern Hebride Island, the Scottish mainland, and the rest of the Hebrides will be under the English Crown. With the economic collapse, England is hit hard, but is able to stay afloat, with their economic boom during the war, they haven't fallen completely into an economic demise. King Richard becomes careful with England's treasury and economics, having his closest advisors, sail him through the hard times after the trade-banking collapse.  Meanwhile, the Kingdom of England offers The Kingdom of France a formal and official proposal for an Alliance. Terms: They will respect eachother's claims, Crowns, Brittany, will remain a French vassal, and continue to be shared between the two nations, as a sort of bridge, Brittany will provide France with military troops, and continue to pay homage taxes.  England sends positive intentions and relations and increases their positive standing with their two current allies: Aragon and Denmark. With the recent surge of activity in Southern Ireland, large quantities of troops are sent toward Wales and Ireland, and the garrison of Eastern English-Scottish shores. King Richard commands his navy, and Admiral Darrington to stop and refrain all Norweigan ships from passing through English waters. King Richard tells Norway, to release protection of the Earldom of Desmond, and to stay out of English manifests. Large amounts of troops are moved to the Eastern coast garrisons and sailed to Dublin.


 * Wales: The region of Wales, slowly builds themselves economically, trying to avoid the major effects of the recession Wales also expands their military rebuilding their garrison in Caernavon. Cardiff begins to expand, becoming more city-like. The Welsh navy moves away from the border of the English Channel, the ships move back to encircle the Scottish Isles.  Large amounts of troops are sent to Dublin. And more garrison the Western coasts.


 * Dublin: As the war is won in Scotland, the Irish reserves sail back to Dublin, and the English troops make their way to regarrison the well-fortified city. Dublin expands economy to buffer the recession, and they expand the military to prepare for any Irish resistance or hostility from the other Irish states. Large amounts of English troops begin garrisoning inside Dublin, as they incur small raids on the westward Irish fiefdom.
 * Brittany (Personal Union with England): Brittany becomes the lead front of the newly proposed Alliance with the Kingdom of France. Brittany expands its economy in order to continue paying taxes to France and helping compensate England for any economic losses during their recent war. Brittany expands its navy in order to feud any pirates or bandits that would disrupt any bits of trade which are happening. In Brittany, English and French leaders meet to officially announce the Frankish-Anglo Alliance (NicDonalds response needed) Moderate amounts of troops are sent to Dublin. The navy is sent to blockade in the English channel.
 * Southern Scotland: With the recent victory for England over Scotland, Glasgow becomes Southern Scotland's main English garrison. Edinburgh is slowly rebuilt. Southern Scotland begins expanding its military and economy. The new lands take a toll from the economic recession. The economy is expanded hoping to help cushion the blow, and the military is expanded with troops centering in Glasgow and Edinburgh. General William Scarlet moves into the Castle in Edinburgh, and ruling over the lands militaristically, under King Richard's full trust and loyalty. General William Scarlet, sends gifts that are recovered from the spoils of war to the King. Small amounts of troops are sent to Dublin. And more garrison the Eastern coasts.
 * Northern Scotland (Vassal of England): King Richard establishes a puppet government of a council of Celtic-Scot Elders that will overlook the regions of Northern Scotland, and will answer to the English Crown. With the highly disorganized lands of the north, and the loss of the Scottish military, small militias and resistance is met when English troops begin occupying Northern England. General William Scarlet rides north to put down the small militias and resistance, and calls upon the Council of Elders to put down any more resistance which is met against English rule, that way to prove their loyalty, and if they do not, General Scarlet threatens them with "permanently removing" them from the council. General Scarlet constructs various outposts and forts over Northern Scotland, in order to control the populace, and maintain order. Northern Scotland expands their military and their economy, and all profit made is spent on mercenaries being bought and incorporated into the already established English military, General Scarlet sets Commander Hunte to train all new troops in Northern Scotland.  Small amounts of troops are sent to Dublin. And more garrison the Eastern coasts.
 * Swedish Diplomacy: We ask the King of England to build Bank of St. Birgitta outposts in London, Edinbugh and Nantes.
 * Iroquois Confederacy: Chief Notaku calls back the braves in Nowadaga to prepare his army for war with Tadodaho. He sends 4,000 braves to the western border forts and orders double patrols to be run along the St. Lawrence River and Bay. All civilians are asked to move inland for their protection. Chief Notaku sends another delegate to Tadodaho, stating that war is a part of all of our cultures, that does not mean this war is necessary. We all share the same Creator, because of this, blood should not be shed. We can both flourish as separate nations, all unified under the Great Tree of Peace. There have been decades of intermixing of our two great peoples, if we march to war, we shall shed the blood of our families. We ask once more, accept peace. (Mod response). Vassalization does not need to occur either. The retraining of braves continues, as well as the refortification of all outposts on the western border in preparation for potential invasion. The braves from Wichita are sent to help secure the Delaware border. No invasion of Tadodaho's lands is to be made. Chief Notaku works diligently to ensure the Confederacy stays united. He calls upon all chiefs to meet at the Great Tree of Peace in Nowadaga to discuss the future of the Iroquois people. A group of chiefs express their concerns about Notaku's vision of unity. To this, Notaku explains that it is not the will of The Creator and the Iroquois Constitution for Iroquois to spill Iroquois blood, and if they were to disband, blood will be shed. Oaths would also be broken if they were to disband. In regards to the few who wish to wage war, Notaku explains that war will always be a reality and there will always be an enemy to fight, but the enemy is not Iroquois.
 * In response to the joint Invasion of the Gurkani Sultanate by the Ottomans, the Abbasids, and the Uzbek rebels, Duke John II of Naxos send envoys to Castile, Ragusa, Milan, Russia, and Bohemia, reminding each of them that, under the Compact of Iskenderun, they are obligated to help the Gurkani Sultanate defeat the invaders. We invade Cyprus and the Morea, using the Naxian Navy of 15 galleys, 30 longships, five neves, and two biremes to siege Famagustra and invade Cyprus, while the Navaresse Company of 1,000 men attack the Morea. Meanwhile, the Ducal Palace of Megali is completed, though the building of Megali is halted as we start the war effort. Duke John II will lead the siege of Cyprus himself, but, before he leaves, hears that Duchess Eleanor is pregnant again. He wishes he could stay for the birth of his child, but he must go to war instead.
 * Abbasid Caliphate: Al-Najm Al-Akbar, at the Battle of Mosul, channaled all he learned from his previous tutors into this decisive moment, giving an opening speech before his men before the battle. Using a cunning strategy, Al-Najm routed the Persian forces and took control of the city. Subsequent to the battle, Al-Najm at last restored Abbasid control to the traditional lands of Mesopotamia and Syria, just as in the Islamic Golden Age. Al-Najm entered triumphantly into the gates of Baghdad on a white horse, greeted warmly by all the Arabs of the city for their liberator from the Persians. But eager to return to the campaign, Al-Najm rounded up the men to recoup his losses and ventured father north against the city of Tabriz, the heart of Persia. This would entail the treacherous crossing of the Zaragos Mountains, causing the deaths of many men from the Caliphate armies in the process, but not affecting the Ottoman reinforcements. While encamping in the mountains, Al-Najm received word that the Ottomans were defeated at Trebzond, but were regrouping for another attack. Arpad ibn Ismail, stationed in Trebzond, sent a messenger to Russia, inviting him to invade Persia if he sends enough troops to take Tabriz. At last, the remaining 100,000 troops of the Caliphate arrived to besiege the city of Tabriz. In response to the invasion by Naxos, the Vizier of Egypt sends 3000 troops and 150 ships to defend Cyprus.
 * Chimu Empire: The Empire continues working on a symbol and picture method of writing down the Chimu language. Research into new weapons continues, and more of the army is now armed with sheilds and spears. The Empire continues officially sending settlers north to Chu-Ica, and by the years end it will grow to approximately 2793. The Chimu golden age continues, and expansion to the south at a steady pace continues, with canals and roads to the new regions being built as the Empire expands. More reed ships are sent north to trade with the Maya as people wonder what happened to the last group of ships. Work on maps continues, and a crude map of the western Americas coastline begins to perfected. The Emperor's son is now 16, and of age to rule when his father dies. He is trained in the latest weaponry, and his personal guard is given the latest in Chimu weaponry. The Emperor is now about 35 years old, and begins training his son in the artwork of Emperorhood, teaching him all he knows in case he dies unexpectedly.
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: The Knights continue internal cost-cutting measures to minise the effects of the economic downturn. News reaches Rhodes of the new "printing press", and the Grand Master becomes keen to acquire a book produced by one to test its quality. In other news, the navy goes on exercises to train new recruits.
 * Kingdom of Tondo:  With the naval victory in the Strait of Luzon and the land victory during the Japanese assault on Maynila, we offer the Japanese Empire peace on the following terms: Tondo will become a tributary of the Ming; all Japanese assets in the OTL Philippines become Tondo's, and Japan shall give Tondo 20 of their best ships (Mod Response)  RajahGambang further consolidates his power, discreetely assigning political opponents to far-flung provinces of Tondo or to Tondo's vassals of Ma-I and Pangasinan, or to colonization attempts in Palawan, Busuang and Samar. The government of Tondo can be roughly described as a Federal Monarchy, with each province ruled by a council with members proportionate to the province's population. Rajah Gambang invites the Huang of Pangasinan, his daughter and Ma-I's regency council, and officials from every province to draft something akin to an OTL constitution, namely, the Saligang Batas ng Tondo at Nasasakupan Nito (Constitution of the sovereign Kingdom of Tondo and all its holdings and possessions). As Maynila is one of the richest cities in South East Asia, it is now high-time to create a lasting legacy for it. A series of bridges and canals connecting the Pasig and Tagik (OTL Taguig) Rivers and all their tributaries to provide acquatic transportation, ease movement of goods, and simply build bridges above the waterways to ease the transportation of people in the Greater Tondo Province (OTL Metro Manila). To prevent problems of income inequality and unequal development, selected families in the capital are given incentives of food and gold to relocate to developing towns and cities in Cavite, Romblon and Samar. A road network has already connected Tondo Province to Cavite, and a series of roads from southeastern and southern Luzon to Pangasinan has already began construction. Tondo metallurgical capabilities increase as blast furnaces and ironforges are built all around the state. The port of Maynila is further expanded, with the navy increasing by 25 small ships and seven war junks. Trade with nearby states continue. Tondo continues expansion in Samae, Palawan and Busuanga. 2000 additional soldiers are trained Diyang Kalangitan refuses to seat beside representatives from the local Japanese merchants during the drafting on the constitution, and representatives from Ma-I and Pangasinan also refuse to sit beside or near Japanese nationals. Gambang orders 300 ships to move to patrol the Visayas archipelago, mainly to protect the trade routes, and secretly to intimidate Cebu.


 * Huangdom of Ma-I: With Tondo's grace, Ma-I settles the western part of Busuanga Island, and dedicates 100 citizens there. Li Han thrives as a cultural and financial capital of Ma-I, while Beigang immediately becomes the second port of Tondo, and conducts trade regularly with nearby nations.
 * Huangdom of Pangasinan: With Tondo's grace, Pangasinan expands into Central and Northern Luzon, attempting to assimilate the mountain and Igorot tribes located nearby to access the massive agricultural treasure in the Banaue Rice Terraces and the farmlands of Central Luzon. The administrative capital city, Pangasinan, begins construction of a road connecting it to Maynila. Blast furnace construction continues, and a small defense fleet of 15 ships is allotted by Tondo to Pangasinan. Pangasinense traders report sightings of small islands west of Luzon, and scouts are sent by Pangasinan to verify their claims.
 * Ahom Kingdom: In concordance with his father's desire to phase out the cavalry khels, Susenphaa orders the phasing out of one cavalry khel to be replaced by one more khel of archers. The remaing calary khels are equipped as light cavalry, to scout and act as skirmishers. More extensive military tests are made on the efficiency of artillery with different types of shot. Also, each khel of archers and arquebusiers is trained to fire in groups of 25 at a time so there is a constant rain of projectiles on the enemy. The Ahom arquebusiers are trained to be perfect at aiming and very swift in reloading.
 * Sweden: As the Mediterranean trade collapses, the Bank of St. Birgitta makes a bold move and asks to establish outposts in London, Nantes, Edinburgh (England), Oldenburg, Stettin (Brandenburg), The Hague, Brugge, Antwerp (Burgundy), Riga, Danzig (Teutonic Order) and Calais. (Mod Response for Oldenburg plox). We ask Denmark to open up an associate filial in Dundee and restore the Aberdeen branch of the bank. The bank constructs outposts in Abo and Uppsala. We start building the University of Uppsala, to spread knowledge in our lands. We thank the Archbishop of Cologne for his help in implementing the Adelphinian Reforms. We apologize to Russia for the diplomatic insult we might have caused, and continue to propose the help for a port. We continue promoting the lumber, iron, copper and wool trade throughout Europe. We continue expanding North, settling more people northward and Christianizing the pagan Lappish and FInns. We accept Pskov's offer. We propose to the Count of Zeeland to reduce taxes in Middelburg, as to make the city more attractive to traders (MOD response). We do the same with Visby. 
 * The Count of Zeeland is reluctant, but reduces them, although not by much.
 * Cologne Dip: The Archbishop of Cologne is unclear on what exactly the apology from Sweden is for, besides with respect to general delays in diplomacy, but gratefully accepts Sweden’s help in building a port to generally further their trade relationship.
 * Cologne player... (I don't know who you are), it was a typo. I meant to say that to Russia. ~Wolves
 * Just an FYI, Zeeland is a Burgundiam possession, and has been since the conquest of Holland, as it was part of the Hollander crown. Also taxes are already low due to Burgundian encouragement of trade. -Guy
 * I looked on the map.... it's free by what the map says. Sorry for everything, please do open bank posts in your ports. ~Andy
 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our manufacturers expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers becomes more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. We built cannons in our Chinese furnaces, which we received from China from Zheng He's trip. We send some money to Gurkanis to show our sympathy of their plight.
 * Duchy of Thuringen: The city guard continues to defend the capital city of Erfurt. Our military grows by adding more recruits each year. We continue to trade again with our neighboring states. Farming goes well in our nation this year. The healthy population continues to increase by 3% each year. Karsten's improvement in the training area is continuing to show off. Our economy tries to rebuild itself from the collapse of 1439. We invest in Ekkehard's printing press, thinking it will help boost our economy of our nation back to what it used to be in 1438 before the collapse.
 * Bohemia: Wenceslaus V, in effort to revitalize the economy, founds the Bank of Prague. The bank requests to open branches in the major HRE countries: Burgundy, Brandenburg, Milan, Austria, and the Teutons. A branch in Hungary is created in Buda. The Bank of Prague begins to try to put affiliates in the smaller HRE countries as well. Bohemia's membership in the Compact of Iskenderun gives them an edge over trade, as they are getting exclusive trade from the east. Bohemia's key position in central position also makes it nearly impossible for cross-continental land trade not to go through Bohemian lands at some point. Wenceslaus V begins funding this project with silver from the silver mines located in the Sudetes. We also begin to mine in the Carpathians, looking for valuable minerals. (Mod Response) We begin to create forts along the border with the Ottoman Empire. We declare war on the Ottoman Empire, citing religious war as our casus belli! We send 24k men across the border into Hungary. We leave 24k men in our nation to defend and be reserves if need be. The army marches not too far to the city of Belgrade, and commences the Siege of Belgrade. We crown the ruler of Milan as King of Italy this year.
 * Grand Boyardom of Russia: Seeing the opportunity ahead, Russia joins the war against the Gurkanids, marching into their territory. Stuff happens. Will edit later.
 * Benin: The imperial census for the year of 1440 has revealed a considerable increase in the general population from 39 million to 41 million in the last decade, and a subtle shift in Bini from the overpopulated Niger Delta region to the most spacious lands of the Malian Sahel. The city of Edo's population is found to have increased from 250,000 to almost half a million inhabitants, while the city of Eko has increased to more than 200,000 residents. Because of this increase in the number of subjects. a massive expansion of the Benin Imperial Army is made by the Oba, who defying the will of his war council, extends the number of warriors under his control from 396,000 to 835,500, creating 45 additional ogun for the Imperial Army, and 458 fipamo consisting of 358 ewu (infantry) and 80 agbo (cavalry) formations for the Metropolitan Army, while keeping Imperial Guard's numbers at 25,000. Te Benin Imperial Navy itself receives fifteen new akakan vessels as well. When asked how he would pay for this, the Oba stated that the tax on income would be increased by 2% from the previous 8% to 10%. With the new imperial budget of 2.8 billion mina, the military's budget would be increased from 317.5 million mina to 948.9 million mina, thus making up a third of the state's total budget for the year. Prince Uwaifiokun and Iyase Ezeani warn Oba Isikhuan that the ballooning size of the military is something that he should avoid, as the state can not afford to continue spending huge amounts of money on the military as it grows simply to sate the desires of the Oba. Elsewhere, expansion into West Africa continues, with 10,000 kilometers settled by the Bini, with the full backing of five ogun sent by the Oba to back the land expansion. Military colonies are built by the army for the warriors, helping the Bini further establish a foothold in the region. More and more of the imperial population identifies as Bini and Kuzir, as the indoctrination of children now becoming adults continues, and as certain privileges offered by the state such as protection under the law and access to public utilities are reserved for those adhering to Kuzir religion. With few external threats and an increase in manpower, the military forces in Benin's Sahel provinces begin a massive infrastructure project to create a series of roads and canals throughout the region. The largely underdeveloped lands are targeted by the state as a new breadbasket for the western provinces, and as much as two-thirds of the state's remaining budget for the year is devoted to the project. Fortifications for the border with Jolof are built, public baths and esuku are constructed in newly rebuilt towns in line with Bini laws and traditions, and expansion of the port city of Ziguinchor continues. Also, in line with the laws of the Oba, all cities have a single public school all children are required to go to if they are able. The Oba, like father, is interested in the patronage of the arts and sciences, and wishes to expand the number of literate Bini in his nation as much as possible as part of the Kuzir faith as well. In East Africa, expansion of the trade by the Bini merchants continues, as the amount of gold, silver, and precious gems brought back to Benin in exchange for finished goods increases. The Bini merchants increase their presence in the region so much so, that the blue robes of the merchant caste of Benin can be found in almost every Swahili city-state in East Africa. Another 60,000 male Malian slaves are shipped off to the Ottoman Empire as per the arrangement established between the Oba and the Sultan. Seeking to expand his nation's foothold in the west, Oba Isikhuan orders 16 ogun, along with 36 ewu and 25 agbo for a total of 124,000 infantry and 12,500 cavalry, into Jolof to pacify the nation and bring it into the empire by force. 15 akakan and 30 other vessels are sent to blockade the coast of Jolof.
 * Bahmanids: (Scraw said I can't militarily support the Gurkanis, so I'm just going to presume my intervention never happened.) Monetary support is sent to the Gurkanis to assist against their enemies. The port of Karachi is upgraded to compete with the Omanis in Gujarat. We continue to spread anti-Arab rumors among the Gujaratis, and hire any bandits in the area, as well as the small number of rebels, to attack Omani troops and positions, as well as burning fields (to decrease Oman's revenue from the province). The rebels/bandits are given safe haven in Bahmanid territory, forcing the Omanis to spend more and more money on more and more troops, while our well-paid isolationist advisors in the Omani court continue to push the unfeasibility of their colony to their leader.
 * A Note: I have no intention of expelling the Omanis from Gujarat with these bandits and rebels. Rather, I only wish to make their colony an expensive and unprofitable one.
 * Portugal: Afonso V declares to his court his desire to reinvigorate the military forces of Portugal in light of the hostile moves made by Castile against Genoa and Milan. After hearing of the atrocities committed by the Castilians, Afonso decrees that Portugal shall open its arms to refugees from Genoa, making special provisions to bring into his lands the Genovese merchants and shipbuilders who have lost everything in Genoa, and now seek a new home elsewhere. Also given aid in moving to Portugal are the owners of the Bank of St. George, whom Afonso has deemed a vital source of power that he can not ignore as they wonder Europe in search of a place to live. With the invitation extended to the Genovese people to come to Portugal, Afonso devotes his attention to another issue, the dire state of the navy. With the ineffectual rule of his predecessors, Portugal's navy has been allowed to decay and rot as the Castilians and Aragonese have outpaced the Portuguese militarily. At the urging of Henry the Navigator, drawing from his own coffers, the King of Portugal invests greatly into the rebuilding of the fleet of ships sitting the port of Lisbon, and orders the expansion of the city of Faro to accommodate the Genovese shipbuilders and their shipyards, as they devote themselves to the construction of the fleet King Afonso desires. Ten ships are added to the navy of Portugal, while twenty of the ships rotting away in the ports of Portugal are refurbished to serviceability, increasing the size of the navy to 35 ships total. Development on a new type of ship by the Genovese begins under the oversight of Prince Henry, who seek to create a vessel large and powerful enough to defend their new homeland from the Castilians. Following a census by the king, it is discovered that Portugal's population sits at 1,043,274 total inhabitants. With this information, the army of Portugal is completely rebuilt with an army of 20,865 able-bodied men ready to serve in the king's military. Though this is tiny compared to the forces of Castile, it will most certain serve as a bulwark and deterrent to any potential invasions by the Castilians. Also in order to combat the Castilian threat expansion of the walls and fortifications are made throughout the country. Elsewhere, traders from Portugal sail southward in search of new lands and trading opportunities. They come across the lands of Senegal, where the Jolof and Bini are active.  Loans of the Bank of St. George are offered throughout Europe in order to provide stabilization.


 * Benin Diplomacy: Benin welcomes the Portuguese to our lands. Even though we have been present in Europe as merchants, we believe that a more direct trade route of sorts would be of benefit to both of us. We wish to establish a trade pact in which you shall be given favorable status as a trading partner and basing rights out of our ports, allowing you access to our ports for food, fresh water, and rest for your crews. Furthermore, we shall agree to lowered tariffs on Portuguese goods, though in exchange for access to the Portuguese markets for Bini merchants and favored trade status in Portugal, though not exclusive between our two countries. Is this satisfactory to the Portuguese throne?
 * Portugal Dip: Henry the Navigator agrees to this agreement. For negotiations a full delegation lead by, Henry the Navigator, is sent down to Benin City in which after words those terms are agreed upon. Portugal also requests some sort of a military alliance.
 * Benin Diplomacy: This we agree to accept.
 * I'm posting on Oct's behalf as per his request to do so. ~Viva
 * OK, so maybe a half dozen owners of the Bank of St. George escaped the Rape of Genoa, and that is being generous. Then, lets presume half of them decided to relocate to Portugal, instead of the more plausible Barcelona, Florence, Pisa, or Venice (all of which with functioning, established banks). They have zero net worth, as practically all of Europe has defaulted on their loans to this failed bank, and the collateral was captured by Castile. The Bank had collapsed, and now its attempting to stabilize the very region it brought chaos to? I don't think so. -Rexmod
 * Prime example of a mod modding in his region rebuttals coming soon~'Oct
 * Croatia: The Kingdom of Croatia, after nearly three and a half centuries of union with Hungary is finally free. The Sabor prepares laws to ensure such things do not ocurr again and Rinaldo is more or less forced to co-operate. In exchange for more power to the Sabor, King Rinaldo Drački gains the loyalty of the few noble families left in Croatia after the Bloody event in Križevci during the reign of the Sigismund the Bloody, as he is known now in Croatia.
 * Republic of Ragusa: The republic begins recovering from the crisis which is fairly easy considering the lack of trade republic in the Mediterranean. The government is being adjusted after the vassalization by Croatia.
 * Duke John II of Naxos sends an envoy to Ragusa, reminding them that they must help the Gurkani Sultanate in their time of need, according to the terms of the Compact of Iskenderun.
 * Ottoman Sultanate: The Sultanate begins to work on regrouping and send 60,000 to Trezbond along with a navy of 300 ships to meet the enemy in the middle on the coast line.(this algo) while our army of 20,000 will walk with the Caliphate army. (If in this algo) our army falls back to Ankara burning everything the Thrimuds can use along with calling for all men to join the army. Slaves from Oba are sent to madrsas to learn Quran (due to the slaves being a small number)and to teach poor people how to read Arabic and Quran. Blocky if you see me on chat PM.
 * Cologne: Archbishop Dietrich II, along with Abbess Margarete of Essen, proposes a contract with Ekkehard Stelzner, in support of his great invention: they will assist Stelzner in distributing Bibles and other religious books throughout all states involved with Adelphinian Reforms (at the least), using their now significant influence in those countries, in return for Stelzner agreeing to give the Archbishopric a small percentage of royalties from the sale of every printed book, indefinitely. Stelzner happily agrees; someone significant is investing in him and his crazy idea! Accordingly, both countries (Cologne and Essen) begin to distribute these Bibles to every religious organisation in wider Cologne and Westphalen. By the end of the year, they are being sent to churches in Berg, Mark and Julich.
 * Essen: Abbess Margarete of Essen assists Dietrich II with the printing press as above. However, she is growing old and eventually becomes bed-ridden. Despite the other canonesses’ insistence that she sleep, she celebrates the birth of Christ that year by getting out of bed in her very ill state, walking down the street with a printed German Bible in hand, and going right into the festivities. Her presence amasses a small congregation of people who listen to her speak about the grace of God with her last burst of energy and eventually fall silent, dying peacefully with a smile on her face as she falls back against a door that happens to have one of her posters on it. The image is burned into the mind of one of the people she talked to; he goes home and begins to paint the scene. The next day, the canonesses hold a vigil in Margarete’s honour; however, they will refrain from electing a new abbess until the next year. In the meantime, Prioress Hildegard runs the abbey and assists Stelzner and Dietrich.


 * Kingdom of France: Louis XI participates in talks at Brest with the new King of England Richard III. At the discussions Louis comes to a compromise and negotiates an alliance with the English. With this Louis decides to put away their nearly sixty years of open hostility against the English crown and the war that happened twenty years ago. It is promised that as long as the King of England honors the basic feudal contract (with providing Breton troops and taxes), the Duchy will remain under France, but in an English personal union, and the French and English will maintain an alliance between their kingdoms. Xaintrailles and La Fayette's deaths at Turin are honored throughout the kingdom. A small royal marriage is also secured with the Milanese duchy to deter war between the two nations. Louis XI uses the Taille, Milanese concessions, and feudal taxes toward providing building projects throughout France to reinvigorate the French economy. This includes many projects in Paris so the city stays as one of the most important and influential in Europe. The development of Chauleaux slows, but Louis ramps up the trade with the Caliphate with their largely unaffected economy. Louis XI continues to rebuild and restructure the navy, making it more effective and keeping it up-to-date. Corsican traders are welcomed to stay on their island.


 * Emma of Denmark: The year 1440 has fallen upon humanity, a new year and a new decade, but I do not celebrate for my husband Crown Prince Mikkael of Norway has not responded to my plea of forgiveness, and I fear that Mikkael has not forgiven me and he still holds malice, hate and anger toward me in his heart and I am extremely scared, so Eric and I remain in Copenhagen, and Eric turns four years of age. I fear that Mikkael will invade Denmark from land, so I continue Denmark's army focus, Danish Scotland is integrated, and they begin to trade with England and Ireland.
 * In the Duchies of Milan and Savoy, Niccolò Maria Visconti makes a trip to Prague after the addition of Montferrat to his realm to deliver an ultimatum to his liege: grant the Iron Crown of Lombardy, as King of Italy, to the Visconti family or face a war of seccession from the Empire. With the Emperor issuing a declaration that Duke of Milan should become King of Italy, Niccolò Maria travels back to Milan, to have the Archbishop of the city crown him King using the historic Iron Crown of Lombardy. Thus is instated, as a single political entity, the Kingdom of Italy. The leading mercantilists at the University of Florence propose a plan to restore the greatness of the Italian economy: by using Italian resources to recreate a grand navy. This plan employs thousands of Italians to great success, but the intensity of the depression continues to be felt in land-locked cities like Florence. To this end, the leading Albizzi clan announces an even larger set of arts projects. In Milan, the newly crowned King focuses on the creation of textile and iron workshops. He even begins to loosen restrictions placed upon production by the guilds, but all craftsmen must still belong to a guild. We also welcome in Genoan/Corsican exiles and refugees into our nation with open arms. We also hear about the movable type discovered in Western Germany, and leading religious clerics express an interest in acquiring the secrets from the Abbess of Essen (PLAYER RESPONSE).
 * Duke John II of Naxos sends an envoy to Milan, reminding them that they must help the Gurkani Sultanate in their time of need, according to the terms of the Compact of Iskenderun.
 * In the Kingdom of Naples, which was never as saturated in the banking culture as Italy proper, recovery has already begun to settle in throughout the realm. Mary Anjou, who reigns from the city of Naples, announces that she shall focus on the nation's navy, borrowing heavily from Genovese plans and Milanese ones. Also, the unrepentant supporters of René of Bar's claim are tried and found guilty in a court of law, and are therefore sentenced to death. The division of the realm into six duchies has somewhat reduced the rampant feudalism, while not angering too many nobles.
 * Papal States: The Papacy is displeased with the current events that have taken place in Italy, and privately confers with the pope to formulate a grand strategy and determine future steps. For now, all that is done is to see that the Papacy's garrisons are well manned and maintained and that the unity of the present Church is upheld in thought and deed.
 * In Constantinople, the Papal commander continues to assist in repairs and fortifications. Privately, he worries he may soon have to withdraw his forces and return to Italy.
 * China: The Chinese Emperor initiates a massive campaign of infrastructural improvement as part of a plan to boost the national economy.

1441
'''With the Duke of Milan being crowned King of Italy, many prominent Italians write a petition to him demanding that now there is no cause, legitimate or otherwise, that should bind the Italian city-states to the Holy Roman Empire that they detest. German concerns are believed to exist but are currently mute.'''

'''Small rumblings of discontent appear within the Mayapan League over apparently trivial matters. The incident remains small at the present time.'''

The Aztec Empire begins a major drive south against the Zapotec kingdoms, conquering a sizeable territory.

King’s College at Cambridge is founded.

'''Two Ethiopians arrive in Rome to discuss a potential merger of the Catholic and Coptic churches. While this effort fails, it is the first major example of Ethiopian involvement in mainstream European affairs.'''

'''ATTENTION TO THE PLAYERS: Recently we have noticed that people have been stating that they have considerable numbers of firearms and cannon, which does not align with the current time period. It is strongly advised for people who have done this to significantly reduce their numbers in this regard. You will regret it if you do not. 'For reference, at the start of the 1500s, a full 60 years from now, only 10% of any Western European army (the most advanced in warfare) was armed with early firearms. [1]'''


 * The Gurkani Sultanate:  Sultan Ulugh Beg Mirza continued his rule over the Sultanate. The Gurkani population rose to about 24 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Bukhara, Tabriz and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Iskenderun, Trabzon and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanate's forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. To prevent the Sultanate from ever getting hit by a major famine, the individual Amirs also engaged in the storage of food supplies, which would be utilized in case of famine or otherwise exported. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Trabzon. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellery. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate, with all caravans being armed and protected with a small detachment of guards. Meanwhile,  the construction of educational madrassahs continued throughout the Empire, with the Sultan keen on spreading education and knowledge amongst the populace of the Sultanate. The Sultan sought to replicate the Islamic Golden Age that existed during the period of the Abbasids prior to the Mongol Invasion, and accordingly funded the teaching of Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, with Algebra, Geometry, Astronomy, Anatony and Medicine being of prime importance. The Sultanate continued to expand its territories into the Caucasus, Siberia and the Persian Gulf islands.  With the Abbasid army destroyed at Mosul and the Ottomans defeated at Trebizond, Mahmud Mirza leads 200,000 men North to either intercept the invading Russian forces (if they are invading) or otherwise to assault the Russian fort of Rostov on Don. The Astrakhan Khanate are sent diplomats for an alliance and they are requested to attack Russia simultaneously [Mod Response]
 * Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultana Saima Daula continued her reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, she would only be answerable to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultana, Rukhsana Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterranean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient
 * Alarmed by Portugal's emerging banking industry, the Royal Armada of Aragon begins patrolling the waters off the east coast. We stop ships randomly for inspection, and inform those which are found to be en route to Portugal and whose crews are Genoese that Portugal is a poor country in which finding one's fortune will be next to impossible. Thereafter, these refugees are offered subsidised accommodation in Barcelona and enticing high pay if they in return agree to provide their services as employees of the Royal Bank of Barcelona, or, if they are shipbuilders, to the Royal Armada. On land, stricter border controls are enforced, and all Genoese people whose ultimate destination is determined to be Portugal are blocked from proceeding through Aragonese territory and then offered the same prospects. As a result, the influx of Genoese refugees into Portugal drops. We encourage Castile to enforce similar policies, as it is in both our interests to prevent Portugal from profiting from the work of the Genoese.
 * You keep on forgetting how fluid trade and everything is. You can not stop ships from moving through your waters for no reason. Genovese blames you among others for the fall of their country so would be majorly inclined not to go to Aragon, a major historic enemy. The only nation that I believe Genovese refugees would be comfortable going to is Portugal. That is because of its lack of involvement in the war, a need for good admirals that have already been exploring similar lands, a government willing to finance the expeditions, and it also being one of the few places not hit by the economic crisis. ~Oct
 * That's rather funny of you to say, because Aragon literally had nothing to do with the dissolution of Genoa. Portugal, as the mods have said, is an implausible hiding place for Genoese refugees because it is just so far away. A more plausible place to flock to would be Barcelona because it already has established industries and infrastructure. As one of the most modern constructed cities in Europe, it would be a logical place to go because of its relative cleanliness and appeal. Furthermore, like you have said previously, is private enterprise not independent of geopolitics? The potential to make lots of money because of Aragon's willingness for concessions in return for employment would far outweigh any sentiment the Genoese might feel against Aragon, which would in itself be implausible because, once again, Aragon had nothing to do with the fall of Genoa. ~Tim
 * In this case, Aragon is deliberately seizing Genovese by force, and word of that would make it back to Italy. Also, it is entirely plausible for Genovese to move to Portugal at the invitation of the King of Portugal, as when Spain began to force Jews to convert to Christianity and expel many of them, the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire actually invited many to Turkey, and most moved to the Ottoman lands as a result of that invitation. It is entirely possible for large numbers of people to move to lands that open their arms to them, and not take them by force. Sky has agreed with this assessment, so I see no reason it should be an issue. ~Viva
 * Yes, but note that Aragon sits in between the rest of the Mediterranean and the rest of Spain. In this position, Aragon has the capability to block anyone from entering Portugal. Rex agrees with me that it is far more plausible for the Genoese to move to Barcelona instead of seeking refuge in Portugal. ~Tim
 * Rex agrees to a lot of stuff, not all of it plausible. Remember, you are allied to the nation that burnt their city to the ground, and actively support them politically. There will be lots of animosity toward Aragon for being the strong ally of the nation that destroyed their society and nation, and actively hunts down and kidnaps their people and puts them to work against their will in Barcelona. ~Viva
 * Your latter argument is completely false, and I am not forcing anyone against their will. I was told to tone down the aggressiveness of my actions, and I have retconned my turn. Please read through it again before shooting more blanks at my turn. ~Tim
 * Furthermore, I don't see why the Genoese would of all places flee to Portugal, instead of more accessible locations such as Germany, Greece or even Africa. Portugal in its current state has extremely little business potential. From the point of view of a merchant, I really don't see the benefits of moving to Portugal, other than the fact that it so happens to be controlled by the same person who played as Genoa. ~Tim
 * Removing the part where you were kidnapping Genovese civilians from boats and saying that because it's gone it didn't happen, doesn't mean that I was wrong. You wrote it down the first time, and I read your turn hence I reason I'm commenting on it. Just because you don't like where the people are going, doesn't mean they can't go there. There are plenty of times people have left one side of Europe to live in another, and the Jews following their expulsion from Spain, didn't just stop in France or Italy because they were closer. No, they kept going to Turkey because the ruler of Turkey invited them there and protected them, just as Portugal is doing for the Genovese. I don't care how close Aragon is. People have memories and they have priorities. They aren't stopping in Aragon just because it is closer, because it is allied to the point of inseparability to the very nation that destroyed their homes. All the arguing in the world will not change the image you have in the minds of the Genovese people. ~Viva
 * Chimu Empire: The Empire continues working on a symbol and picture method of writing down the Chimu language. Research into new weapons continues, and more of the army is now armed with shields, swords and spears. The Empire continues officially sending settlers north to Chu-Ica, and by the year's end it will grow to over 3000 people. The Chimu golden age continues, and expansion to the south at a steady pace continues, with canals and roads to the new regions being built as the Empire expands. Work on maps begin to yeild accurate results, allowing the growth of shipping and trade along the coast.  In the port city of Chan Chan, a young sailor by the name of Eka Loksa beings experimenting with designs for a more efficient, more reliable sailing vessel. He decides to use wooden planks to reinforce the bottom of a reed boat, and convinces his employer to let him take it for a trade mission up the coast. A nearly-fatal storm ravages the coast, and most sailors are assumed dead, but then, surprising, Loksa returns the next day. News of his discovery spreads far and wide, and he is soon granted an audience with the Emperor, who agrees to fund the young man's work to look into more and better designs for Chimu ships.
 * Mayapan: Aztec expansion is heavily but discreetly monitored and preliminary defenses are prepared in case of war. Emperor-King Iktan dies this year, and is succeeded by his son Atlahua, who names himself Emperor. Atlahua begins to rally the nation for, what he believes, is an imminent war against the Aztecs. He stirs up nationalist sentiment with the citizens, increasing unity between the city-states. Integration of the southern city-states into the League is continued by the High Council. Each new state is expected to supply men to train and serve in the national army. The council seeks to improve commerce and communication between the many settlements of the Yucatan by constructing and maintaining roads between them. Work continues to renovate and update existing buildings, roads and to create plans for future upkeep and renovations.
 * Rwanda: The nation works on expansion, and is beginning to build a road system across its territory. We strengthen our military, and currently we have 30,000 soldiers, including auxiliaries, fighting in our ranks. We announce the intention to expand, and expand, until we can establish a prosperous Rwandan state. We ask the Congo to establish diplomatic relations with our nation **Mod response required
 * The Congo agrees to establish diplomatic relations.
 * Totonacapan Empire: Emperor Tepictoton begins to rally the nation for, what he believes, is an imminent war against the Aztecs. He stirs up the nationalist sentiment of our citizens, increasing unity between our city-states. Emperor Tepictoton seeing the Aztec aggressive expansion, focuses west, after hearing rumors of nations that claim they have better Metallurgy than the mighty Totonacs and readies his warriors and invades Michoacan and Matlatzinco with 55,000 warriors. Emperor Tepictoton also marry with his new wife Anacaona, she is 16 years old. She gives birth to twin boys later that year while her husband is on the campaign against Michoacan and Matlatzinco, naming them Tepictoton II after his father and Acamapichtli after his grandfather, in their father's absence. Metal working continues to grow, with citizens being able to afford them, allowing more warriors to be modernly armed. Bronze short swords/fie machetes are purchased by more warriors, and research into new longer weapons and sheilds begins. Major roads are constructed and maintained throughtout the Empire to promote trade and ease transport of goods and armies, especially in the northern provinces. The Northern provinces are further integrated into the Empire. El Tajin market prospers, being in a major trade route, along with El Tajin having many visitors to witness its magnificence, turning into a major hub thanks to its proximity to Papantla. Another 1,000 people this year accept the Emperor's gracious bounty, along with new plots to build their homes and relocate in El Tajin being astonished by its magnificence. Also an estimate is made by a renowned scholar for our the population of our five biggest population centers, estimating that our capital Xallapan has around 120,000 population and is by far the biggest and the most populous city in the Empire, Cempoala has around 80,000 population and is now rebuild and economic life gets back on track again thanks to several projects in the area, Papantla has around 60,000 population with its market growing to support the new increase in trade, Colipa has around 25,000 population with its walls being praised by its citizens for their solidness and endurance and El Tajin has around 15,000 population, the vast majority of them are settlers from the whole Empire, aiming to receive the generous king's bounty for relocating there as well as new houses. The rights of non Totonacs continue to get revoked in favor of Totonacs, with the Mayan people being the only exemption. We continue trading minorities/non-Totonacs with the Aztecs to sacrifice to their gods in exchange for food, cattle, gold, diamonds and many other resources.  A secret proposal is drafted by our most qualified advisors aiming to keep peace with the Aztecs, proposing mass slave trade by relocation of our 500,000 minority people (All of our minorities) into Aztec territory to be sacrificed, with the help of the Aztec army, to be able to keep any unrest under our control, the slaves to be traded for any resources (metals, food, water, weaponry...). The slave merchandise can be alternatively sold gradually or in smaller quantities. [MOD RESPONSE] ((Skyboi you're my only hope)) 
 *  The Aztecs agree to a gradual exchange of slaves/resources over a course of two decades. -Skyboi 
 * Bruh, write your own turns. Don't steal mine. - Cour
 * I don't thats why i steal everyones turns hehehehe... No really i only took a sentence of yours out of 20+ sentences that i actually wrote so... ~Bear
 * Earldom of Desmond- The war with the MacCarthy's and O'Sullivans are over with a complete victory with the annexation of their territory's. We give out lands to our soldiers as well as nobles who have proven themselves worthy during the campaign. Using POW's who are too poor to ransom, instead of just killing them, we use them the build roads, and infrastructure across the enlarged Dukedom. We allow the defeated leaders of the MacCarthy;s and O'Sullivan's to rule over their lands but with us as their lieges. It is now estimated we now have a population of 150,000. We expand the military and economy. In the subjugated lands we attempt to win over the populace by not allowing looting while building schools, churches and roads across the land. Concerned with the poor sanitation and hygiene of the realm we plan on building a systems of hospits across the country to teach and heal people. We continue to fortify and build castles across the realm and protect ourselves from external threat. The town of Cork increase to around 4,000 due to immigration from the Irish, Scottish refugees, and investment/trade from Castille. The economy booms as a result from trade with Castille so we expand the trade fleet and the Navy. Due to our conquest of the McCarthy's and O'Sullivan's we ask the Irish lords/ and tribes if the want to unite under a kingdom (they don't all have to accept, just some) (Mod Response Needed) ((Skyboi you're my only hope)) We also support the Duke of York in England and send him gifts in hopes of causing unrest while we tell him we support him for the throne of England and ask him for and alliance (Mod Response needed) ((Skyboi you're my only hope)) 
 *  You only conquered two clans, you don't even control all of Munster, there's no incentive to join you. 
 *  It won't work and you shouldn't porbably do it because Swanky will easily kill you off. 
 * Aragonese Diplomacy: The first Aragonese merchants arrive in Desmond this year to set up branches of the Royal Bank of Barcelona as per our agreement last year; diplomats also arrive to serve as representatives of the King to the Earl's court.
 * Ahom Kingdom. Susenphaa welcimes the 15 new elephants into the Ganesha Division and immediately orders the training of another 15. Training will be completed in 1443. Susenphaa also orders the improvement of roads throughout his kingdom. He also orders the creation of another city, Rangpur. Susenphaa also orders the reduction of the arquebusier force by 200, ensuring only the best remain. The 100 arquebusiers are put into the Ganesha Division. The divisions also receive one more khel of infantry.
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: Three new large galleys are ordered for construction in order to give the shipbuilders of Crete and Rhodes something to do, since there is little business from the merchant community. A choirboy in the Latin Cathedral writes a passion play in Greek which is well-received by both the Latin and Orthodox rite communities.
 * Korea enjoys a period of prosperity under a meritocratic bureaucracy under the monarch Yi Do. Buddhism, especially the Yi sect, a mixture of Confucian morals and ethics and Muist shamanic rites, continues to be ingrained into Korean culture. With the caste system becoming much looser, and the hereditary aspect being removed, the higher echelons are forced to earn their status through competence and skill, instead of it being given hereditarily. The social strata becomes increasingly vague, while the yangban is on the top, the other castes now have roughly equal status. The cheomin caste, comprising of social outcasts, performers, slaves, and other professions, is abolished and integrated into the lower sangmin. As a result of these reforms, many nobles feel threatened about the loss of guaranteed status and power, and begin to muster small-scale revolts in major cities. However, as they do not longer have the right to own private armies, these revolts are easily suppressed. Rebelling nobles are executed for treason, while minors are given to other pro-reform families. The purged noble's confiscated properties are added to the national treasury, with a portion given to the lesser fortunate to increase the popularity of Yi Do and his administration. Seeking to mirror the economic sophistication of the Ming, the commercialization and augmentation of the Korean economy continues with vigor. Merchant activity is promoted, and with food being so plentiful, a division of labor occurs. Many former peasants flock to cities to work in industrial complexes and in handicrafts and textiles rather than agriculture. Blast-furnaces are upscaled to hold a much higher capacity. Buildings all across Korea is upscaled to convey increasing Korean prosperity, whilst Korean territory further expands deep into Manchuria, displacing and assimilating local Jurchen tribes. Korea sends its third batch of tribute to the Ming, whilst increasing bilateral trade with Tondo. Due to its attempt of invasion many years ago, Yi Do is anxious and reluctant to reestablish ties with Japan, even making plans to invade it in retaliation.
 * Korean diplomacy (to the Ming) – Yi Do secretly sends a batch of emissaries to Beijing to discuss a potential invasion of Japan together, as they chose to opt out of the Chinese tributary system and refuse to acknowledge Chinese superiority. Korea will annex Japan as a constituent state under a Korean–Japanese union, while the Ryukyus will be given to Japan. China will also receive extra human tribute (concubines and eunuchs) from Korea.
 * Ming Diplomacy: While the Ming agree to the invasion of Japan the Emperor stresses the need for proper preparations for such a serious undertaking. (We'll do it but we need time to prepare)
 * Sweden: As the Mediterranean trade collapses, the Bank of St. Birgitta makes a bold move and asks to establish outposts in London, Nantes, Edinburgh (England), Oldenburg, Stettin (Brandenburg), The Hague, Brugge, Antwerp (Burgundy), Riga, Danzig (Teutonic Order) and Calais. (Mod Response for Oldenburg please). We ask Denmark to open up an associate filial in Dundee and restore the Aberdeen branch of the bank. King Kristjen is asking the European nations for a bride for his heir, Olaf, as well as for his second son, the renownly handsome Gustav. We continue building the University of Uppsala, to spread knowledge in our lands. The building has been increased when news of Cologne's blessing came to our ears. We apologize to Russia for the diplomatic insult we might have caused, and continue to propose the help for a port. We continue promoting the lumber, iron, copper and wool trade throughout Europe and the Bank of St. Birgitta proposes to the Royal Bank of Barcelona to promote North-South trade together, to remediate the economic slump as fast as possible. We continue expanding North, settling more people northward and Christianizing the pagan Lappish and Finns. We begin to set up an autonomous government for the island of Gotland, to promote trade, based on the merchant republics of the south. We SECRETLY contact Portugal's bank in regards of buying Norway's debt. Secret End. We ask Cologne to send us Ekkehard's creation.
 * Swedish Secret Diplomacy to Denmark: We are worried about King Jonathan's fits of madness and propose to house the royal children in Stockholm, should war break out. We will support Denmark in any Norwegian attack on Denmark and propose to depose King Jonathan.
 * Danish Secret Diplomacy to Sweden: With King Johnathan's bouts of madness and the conflict Mikkael and I are having regarding Eric, I remorsefully send Eric to Stockholm after embracing him. He shall go to Stockholm for the sake of his safety during this time of crisis, and shall be returned to me in Copenhagen when the war is over, and he shall recieve the greatest education in all of Sweden. We thank Sweden for the proposal, and we accept the proposal to overthrow King Johnathan. We also have an additional term, to make me, Queen Emma of Denmark, to be Queen of Norway, and for Crown Prince of Norway to be King Consort of Norway. We make plans to go to war with Norway next year.
 * Swedish Secret Diplomacy: We offer Russia to renounce on Pskov as a tributary and no longer assure their independence, in return for a military alliance. The proposal for a city on the Baltic is to be associated to this, but not binding.
 * Aragonese Diplomacy: The Royal Bank of Barcelona is more than willing to expand its horizons, and eagerly establishes its new friendship and alliance with the Bank of St. Birgitta. Our merchants begin establishing trade between Iberia and Scandinavia. However, the currently limited range of our ships means that at this time Sweden will have to take responsibility for the majority of transport. We propose setting up an intermediary in the middle of the route to allow the exchange of goods between Aragon and Sweden.
 * Swedish Diplomacy: The Bank of St. Birgitta owns an outpost in Middelburg, in Burgundy. We could use this as the intermediary trade post.
 * Aragonese Diplomacy: The executives of the BRB find this an excellent solution to the transportation problem. Trade shall begin immediately.
 * Portugal agrees.
 * Aragonese Diplomacy: To further strengthen our new friendship, we propose a royal marriage between Princess Eleanor of Aragon and Crown Prince Olaf of Sweden.
 * Italian Diplomacy: We offer the hand of Lady Isabella Visconti, first cousin of King Niccolò Maria, in marriage to Prince Olaf, including a comfortably sized dowry.
 * Bahmanids: We continue our earlier economic warfare against Omani Gujarat, and secretly offer bounties to pirates who attack shipping going to and from Gujarat. Not wanting to waste the shipbuilding recources of the empire, Ali Nadeem Shah orders 30 more warships to be constructed over the next decade, and that materials for ten more be gathered at different ports, to be quickly constructed in times of crisis. Large terraces are built in the highlands of Sri Lanka, so that more spices can be farmed and exported.


 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our manufacturers expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers becomes more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. We built cannons in our Chinese furnaces, which we received from China from Zheng He's trip.
 * Abbasid Caliphate: Al Najm Al-Akbar returns to Damascus, considering his next move with Persia in chaos
 * Duchy of Thuringen: The city guard continues to defend the capital city of Erfurt. Our military grows by adding more recruits each year. We continue to trade again with our neighboring states. Farming goes well in our nation this year. The healthy population continues to increase by 3% each year. Karsten's improvement in the training area is continuing to show off. Our economy continues to try and rebuild itself from the collapse of 1439. We continue to invest in Ekehard's printing press, thinking it will help boost our economy of our nation back to what it used to be in 1438 before the collapse.
 * Bohemia: Wenceslaus V continues to influence the electors. The army in Serbia successfully takes it with no resistance from the Ottomans. The army continues to Greece to start the Battle of Greece in order to liberate it. Wenceslaus V's children continue schooling. Wenceslaus V politely asks the ruler of Milan to calm the Italian states down. The Bank of Prague continues to be funded and grows. The Bank opens up new branches across Germany, stabilizing the economic situation for most of the smaller German countries.
 * China: The Chinese continue to develop infrastructure throughout their empire.


 * The Crown of Castile works rapidly to solve the economic crisis, but alas the crisis only continues to spiral out of control. As a result, many of the infrastructure projects are forced to take a back seat to maintaining Castile's Navy. The addition of a fourth of Genoa's navy helps in this regard, but without the proper funds the naval development grinds to a near halt for the time being.The remaining population of Granada continues to be deported, with a remaining 330,000 Granadan Muslims set for deportation over the next five years. Henry IV forms his new religious council, called the Order of the Red Lion. The Order is established to ensure that the "Religious Integrity" of Castile remains in check. In reality, however, the Order of the Red Lion seeks to destroy political discontent under the King's rule, and its establishment further solidifies King Henry's Absolute Power. Castile inherits many of Genoa's merchants and trade routes, but with the banking crisis having ruined the economies of many nations, trade is at an all time low.
 * Kingdom of Gibraltar: Continues its Chirstinization efforts. With a remaining 120,000 Berber Muslims in the territory, the kingdom should be able to finish the deportation efforts within seven more years. Castillian/Christian populace now numbers 50,000 within Gibraltar. With the economic crisis, little work is done on expanding the irrigation systems to reclaim the desert of Morocco. The Kingdom is ruled by Alfonso I of House Ivera.
 * Kingdom of Morocco: The Kingdom has a remaining Berber Muslim population of 850,000. With the slower settlement and deportation efforts, it is estimated to take another 30-50 years before. Morocco continues to be the meeting ground of Trade between Europe and the faraway Kuzir Empire, which makes the merchants of Fez quite rich. These merchants are somewhat spared from the economic crisis in Europe as they trade primarily with the Kuzirs, but many of them still feel the pressure with the economic collapse of Europe. The Kingdom is Ruled by Beatriz I, from a side branch of House Burgundy. Reclaim efforts are mostly funded by the wealthy merchants in Fez.
 * The Serene Republic of Liguria: With the end of the Neopolitian War, the republic of Liguria is established and ruled by the Spinola Family, ruled by Franseco Spinola. With the Rape of Genoa, a little under half of the population has fled the nation, resulting in a current population of 190,000. With many shipyards and docks damaged during the war, Franseco uses what little funds he has available to slowly restore the nation to its former glory, under Castillian dominance of course.
 * The Duchy of Athens: Annexes all of the Greek territory that Castile inherited from the Neopolitian War, and Castile/Athens asks that Naxos end its invasion as the war is over. The nation has a population of 60,000 and although there is some discontent, any of hope of rebellion is squashed by the lack of a good sponsor, the banking crisis, and the destruction of the Republic of Genoa. Duke Antonio Acciaioli is allowed to remain in power and a marrige is set up between his son Antonio and the daughter of Castile, Isabella.
 * Norway: After silence from our neighbors in KU Mikkael begins to grow more worried for his nation. Jonathan Gyldenlove dies from cutting himself with a piece of glass because he thought it was sugar after his death Mikkael is crowned King of Norway by the archbishop of Niadros. Worried about his neglecting of his wife and his son he attempts to reconcile with his wife but to be only turned back by Danish nobles. Fearing for the worse that Denmark is attempting to take over Norway. Secret diplomacyWe send word to Sweden warning them of the Danish plot and that they are not to be trusted as Mikkael makes it known that Emma plans to restore the KU and when norway is conquered and submitted Sweden is next. Secret end Fearful of Danish invasion fortificactions are built in Oslo, Bergen and Niadros to protect them and a large army is raised. We place troops on the border with Denmark to protect against any possible invasion. The bastard of Jonathan is born and is named Jonathan Sølvulv after his father.
 * Secret Diplomacy: Fearful of aggression from both states we send an offer of alliance to France as England is an ally with Denmark and Denmark is becoming more hostile toward us we ask for a defensive alliance to protect us.
 * Benin: The development of the road network in Benin continues, along with the ambitious infrastructure plans drawn up by the Oba of Benin for the western half of the empire. New cities and towns, canals, public facilities and fortifications, development of agricultural lands and forest clearing all take place under the oversight of the new policy of Oba Isikhuan. He wishes to be remembered as the man who built up the empire and improved the lives of his people, all while seeking to overshadow his father's achievements. He personally directs the settlement of lands in Ghana, directing his warriors person as to the expansion of new lands. 10,000 kilometers of land along the coast are taken, and the women and children taken into captivity by the Bini, while the men are executed by the warriors of Benin. The demographic transformation of Benin over the last four decades from a multi-ethnic empire to a predominately singular identity has been bewildering. The harsh and often violent initiatives taken by the Bini to expand their own ethnic group at the expense of weaker and smaller ones has been successful. The Songhai were completely obliterated as a group, and the Igbo having long been assimilated into the linguistically and culturally similar Edo population. The Yoruba have been united as a group under the auspices of the Edo people, and the newly unified group now represented as the Bini people of the empire. The Bini alone make up 60% of the imperial population, and with the constant indoctrination of non-Bini youth in Kuzir schools, and the forced marriages of foreign women into the Bini population to bolster the empire's growth rate, most officials believe that within twenty years time, should the empire continue its demographic policies, the Bini will come to represent 80-90% of the total population. In line with the military alliance signed with Portugal, the first ogun from Benin is shipped off to Portugal to bolster the military forces of that nation. The arrival of 5500 warriors and their families to Portugal from the Bini port city of Ziguinchor, signals the first ever exercise of political power by Benin far beyond its homeland in Africa. The warriors of the newly formed Ogun XXXIX Ariwa immediately begin work on constructing fortification for themselves and their families to reside in north of the town of Evora, and take up residences in that region. Later in the year, Ogun XXIX Songhay is transferred from its base in Gao to Portugal as well, bolstering the Bini forces in the nation to 11,000 warriors. Three additional ogun are to be shipped out to the Iberian kingdom in the event Portugal is attacked as part of the agreement between Benin and Portugal, with the costs for the forces paid for by Benin, but with the benefit of naval basing rights out of Portuguese ports. So as to put the people at ease, all Bini warriors are required to speak of their admiration for Christianity and their belief that Christianity is indeed a saintly religion. While the Kuzir believe that theirs is the religion that truly uncovers the will and the nature of God, Kuzir also believe that as part of God's will, he put into the minds of men the need for spirituality. Thus, all religions are indeed correct, but all lack the fundamental traits that truly focus on uncovering God within creation. As a result, while Kuzir seek to understand all religions as a natural growth of man's god-given spirituality, Kuzir never seek to join these religions, thus protecting them from conversion to another faith. Outside of their military duties, the Bini warriors are to contribute to the construction projects in Portugal and road building in their free time. Another 60,000 Malian slaves are transported from Benin to the Ottoman Empire in line with the trade agreement signed by the two powers.
 * Papal States: The Papacy is displeased with the current events that have taken place in Italy, and privately confers with the pope to formulate a grand strategy and determine future steps. For now, all that is done is to see that the Papacy's garrisons are well manned and maintained and that the unity of the present Church is upheld in thought and deed.
 * In Constantinople, the Papal commander continues to assist in repairs and fortifications. Privately, he worries he may soon have to withdraw his forces and return to Italy.