Merveilles du Monde (Map Game)

After a long trek through Asia spanning two decades, Venetian explorer Marco Polo published the compiled journal of his travels in 1295. He described in great detail the Near East, with its many castles and fortresses held by many mighty empires. He entered the Gate of Iron, through which Alexander crossed into the east millennia ago. He toured the eight kingdoms of Persia and witnessed scores of miracles and wonders, many of which he dared not publish for he felt his audiences would not believe what he wrote. He described in great detail the exploits of the great Kublai Khan, the intrigue in the Emperor's court, the sprawling landscape of Yuan China, and the massive battles that took place during his stay.

Polo named his work Livre des Merveilles du Monde - Book of the Marvels of the World. In publishing these journals, he brought knowledge of the eastern world back to Europe and vice versa. Just like that, the world got a little bit smaller. The Holy Roman Empire - locked in a state of interregnum with no end in sight - became aware of the wars of Kublai Khan. The faltering Byzantine Empire and its breakaway state of Trebizond became the subject of discussion from Lisbon to Kathmandu. The wealthy Abu Bakr II of Mali would seek to follow in Polo's footsteps, paving the way for the rise of Mansa Musa. The Kamakura Shogunate of Japan defeated wave after wave of Mongol forces while, an ocean over, Mesoamerica was still reeling from the fall of the Toltec Empire.

Merveilles du Monde is a spiritual successor to the Principia Moderni franchise. It sets the clock back to the year 1295, in the Late Middle Ages - in other words, an era of great change and great suffering - an era in which nations rose and fell - an era in which power was cemented ...

Moderators

 * Death: Curmudgeonly yours - Crim 01:38, October 14, 2019 (UTC)
 * Famine: User:Nathan1123
 * Pestilence:
 * War: User:Tullin

Important Pages

 * Rules and Algorithm (Merveilles du Monde Map Game)
 * Alliances (Merveilles du Monde Map Game)
 * Holy Roman Empire (Merveilles du Monde Map Game)
 * Feudal Dynasty (Merveilles du Monde Map Game)
 * College of Cardinals (Merveilles du Monde Map Game)
 * Nations (Merveilles du Monde Map Game)

1320
''' Across the world, temperatures noticably fall to much lower levels during Spring and Autumn, with slightly longer and colder winter. '''

''' With the forces of Uzbeg Khan continuing to invade Poland, his forces focus on attacking Lviv and the Vistula near Warsaw. The Slavic Principalities of Tver, Rostov, Yaroslavl and Ryazan rise up in revolt, seizing advantage of the majority of Mongol forces being occupied by Poland. Some 10,000 Slavic troops defect from the Mongols invading force: 3,000 from Vistula and 7,000 from Lviv. Grand Prince Danielvich of Moscow maintains neutrality in the conflict. Additionally, Lithuania offers to help Poland fight the Mongols. '''

''' Emperor Louis IV sees the action of Brabant attempting to leave the Holy Roman Empire as further plot from France and Luxembourg, and if that is not rectified then he will send military action against the Rhine States. Other Electors, however, are wary of this rash threat. '''

''' The Pandyas dynasty recovers from their civil war, and offers to maintain peace with the Delhi Sultanate by paying anual tribute. They focus on their navy, to expand their large trade pressence through the Maldives to both the Middle East and Indonesia. '''

''' Delhi, however, has issues of their own. Sultan Alauddin Khilji is murdered in Delhi by a conspiracy led by Nusrat Khan and Ulugh Khan, seizing control of the capital and claiming Ulugh as Sultan. Shaadi Khan supports his claim in attempt of gaining favor ahead of his brother, and pressures Lahore to do the same. Most of the rest of the governors of India, however, do not recognize this claim, and instead proclaim Khizr Khan as the Sultan. '''

''' Pope John VIII of Alexandria dies, and is succeeded by Pope John IX. '''

''' Dominican Nun Margaret of Castello dies at a young age of 32. Her pious life being so evident, disabled children who attended her funeral were found to have suddenly healed. '''

''' A teenage boy in Normandy claims to have a vision from the Holy Spirit, telling him a God-given goal to drive the Moors out of Iberia completely. This sparks the Second Shepherd's Crusade, as thousands of peasents across northern France gather simple weapons and begin haphazardly marching their way to Iberia. By the time they reach Gascony, they have wrecked havoc of attacking castles that stand in their way, and leading pogroms against Jewish populations. '''


 * Mali Empire: Infrastructure of Mali continues to be built up in size and splendor using its finances across the empire. Dakar is expanded along the coast with larger ports, and takes the brunt of influence from European trade with monopolies of ports dedicated to welcoming Spanish, Italian and German traders alike. This also helps to give a steady stream of immigrants to the Gorgades islands, which has an unusually high attrition rate during this subsequent decade. Timbuktu is also rapidly growing in population as the hub of overland trade by caravans. The buildings of Timbuktu are expanded to be larger and more complex, but still maintain an Afro-centric architectural style with only modest influence from Middle Eastern sources. They also take on a sense of majesty, with carved iron images of lions and serpents in order to drive off evil spirits. Domestically, the upper nobility acquires large manageries of tamed wild animals from across Africa, including lions, giraffes, and elephants. These manageries also come with their own exotic assortment of customs taken from other cultures, such as collectios of slaves and concubines. Musa dedicates dozens of new depots across the caravan desert, mostly in the east to further supply the current invasion of Kanem, as well as facilitate individual feudal expansions into Central Nigeria. Centrally organized supply routes are conveyed through the recently-captured cities of Hadijah and Daninski, as the two armies press from two sides to sieze the area of Lake Chad itself. These armies consist of 40,000 each at this point, with Musa himself leading the northern army as its own leader. [Algo request]
 * Delhi Sultanate: The Sultan is murdered by Nusrat Khan and Ulugh Khan, they are supported by Shadi Khan, Alauddin’s second son and the Governor of Lahore who is under pressure by Shadi Khan and Nusrat Khan. The Sultan’s bodyguards defect to Kara to meet up with Khizr Khan, who has been proclaimed Sultan by the other nobles of the Chalisa. Alp Khan quickly sends messengers to Malik Kafur. Malik Kafur accepts the Pandyas offer of becoming a tributary state to Delhi. On hearing the news of the situation from Alp Khan’s messengers, Malik Kafur swears loyalty to Khizr Khan Khilji and rushes with his army of six tumen Northward leaving one tumen in Belur. Alp Khan’s forces attack Multan but are repulsed by Shadi Khan’s forces a few miles away from the city. Alp Khan starts recruiting Rajput mercenaries and leads a second attack later in the year and is able to capture the city of Multan. Shadi Khan’s forces retreat to Lahore and set up a formidable defense line which prevents Alp Khan’s forces from advancing further. Alp Khan’s forces are led by a young military general, Malik Feroze. Meawhile, Sultan Khizr Khan Khilji raises a sizeable force and with the aid of the Governor of Malwa launches an attack on Delhi which is brutally crushed by the combined forces of Nusrat Khan and Ulugh Khan, Ulugh Khan leading the forces himself. The Governor of Zaranj prepares his forces and begins moving onto Kabul. The governor of Peshawar also sends a small force toward Kabul so as to not alert the Governor of Lahore and Shadi Khan. The Governor of Peshawar is surrounded by hostile forces and sends a letter to Shadi Khan in Lahore swearing loyalty even though he supports Khizr Khan. Malik Kafur arrives in Kara in November and helps replenish Khizr Khan’s forces. Khizr Khan awards Malik Kafur the control of his forces. Malik Kafur starts marching toward Delhi in December leading the combined forces. Meanwhile, in Delhi, Nusrat Khan and Ulugh Khan murder many of the ex-Sultan’s loyals including many of the spies that made up his intelligence system. Similar steps are taken by Shadi Khan in Lahore, who has now deposed and murdered the governor of Lahore, who was reluctant to join Shadi Khan.
 * Belur Sultanate: Madhavcharya engages in a religious debate with the Sultan of Belur Veer Ballala III and his priests and is able to prove the supremacy of Dvaita Vedanta. The Sultan of Belur starts patronizing Madhavcharya and his philosophy. Madhavcharya begins touring the major temples of the Belur Sultanate spreading his philosophy. Veer Ballala III orders the reconstruction of the Hoysaleswara temple in Dwarasamudra.
 * Tarascan State: Tariácuri, with the second message from Curicaueri, continues to urbanize Tzintzuntzan and Angamuco. With the aid of Urichu, Erongarícuaro, Pechátaro, and Jarácuaro, expansion is made to the west toward the sea while settlers scan the geography for adequate housing locations. In Tzintzuntzan, military barracks are installed under a new philosophy meant to minimize the total numbers while maximize strategy and efficiency. With this, it is decided that roughly one-fifth of all male adults at the age of 14 must begin militant training, spending upward of 12 years in a faction of 25 before they are able to retire to a live of serenity before reaching the skies. The Assembly of Pátzcuaro votes toward the creation of a tributary system and a plans to reform bureaucracy over the coming years. While not limiting Tariácuri's power, it would allow Citlali's military power to be expanded. After completely destroying the confederation, the primary policy over the newly acquired territory continues to be conducted for another eight years. The coast is finally reached and settlements are established. With this, fishing is established as a form of gathering food, while the major agricultural and cattle regions in the former Jalisco are absorbed and owned by warriors and nobles. Tariácuri's sons, Hiripan and Tangáxoan, are installed as lords of Ihuatzio and Tzintzuntzan, allowing domestic rule while maintaining military alliances. Mining occurs in the recently conquered Jalisco region, which produces large obsidian deposits. While iron and bronze had been used primarily, the creation of obsidian spears, short swords, and knives occur. A new faction in the military is created by Citlali called the "Chicahtoc Tlacatl", who dress in all black linens and carry these obsidian weapons to attack in the night. They number roughly 1,000, and consist of harshly trained militants in an effort to help produce savages. To help create a more mainstream and easier means of production for amate, Tariácuri begins writing a language script for the Purépecha so as to end the over-usage of pictograms and make production of text much easier. This is expected to fully engulf the state's territory by 1400. With an increasing influence and dominance over this side of Mexico, the remaining city-state confederation of Tonallan, Poncitlan, Cuitzeo, and Coinan are offered tributary status in the Tarascan state. (Mod Response Needed).


 * They agree to be tributaries of Michoacan.
 * Kingdom of Sicily: After that the Aragonese occupations,solved the problem the noblemens administrative and reforming the region the pope written a code law called in pace mean 'The pace' in latin which is from the new rule update of Sicily the Sicilians support that movement of the nobles which is make Sicily in good state what for now the Sicilians of the people tells that in Gascony there is a crusade called 'Shepherd.' Meanwhile, the Sicilians monarchist demands to Rule Apulia-Calabria the neighbor territorial of Sicily for advancing the loyalty of the law. (Mod Response)
 * Republic of Novgorod: Prince Mikhail Yaroslavich of Novgorod rallies 11,000 troops in support of the 18,000 troops of Tver, Yaroslavl, Rostov and Ryazan led by his son, Dmitry the Terrible Eyes.  The 11,000 troops of Novgorod, supported by 4,000 Pskovian troops, lay siege to the city of Smolensk, and Prince Mikhail asks the Teutonic Order, Lithuania and Polotsk to aid in the acquiring of this goal [TEUTON and MOD RESPONSE]. In secret, the veche (government), headed by the posadnik (mayor) of Novgorod Semyon Klimovich, in collaboration with the Archbishop of Novgorod David, conspire in order to spearhead reform, go away from their plan of reforming without a Prince, and see the need to keep strong military leaders around. Other plans for reformation are made. Otherwise, Novgorod exports fur, salt, hops, timber and tar to the rest of Europe, making profits. The secretly hired Ushkuyniks are sent to sack Murom from the riverside [ALGO needed for Siege of Smolensk and Battle of Murom]. '''
 * Principality of Tver (PU with Novgorod): The troops of Tver, Yaroslavl, Rostov and Ryazan are led by Prince Mikhail's son Dmitry, who's nicknamed 'the Terrible Eyes' and his smaller brother Alexander. Ambitious, the troops 18,000 men strong lay siege to Kiev in order to take the old seat of the Rus' [ALGO needed for Siege of Kiev]. Dmitry sends letters to the King of Bohemia, asking him to counter-raid into Chernigov [BOHEMIA response]. Otherwise, Tver has grown rich of trade between Novgorod and the other Russian principalities.
 * Republic of Pskov (Novgorodian vassal): Pskov continues helping Novgorod in its endeavors, and supplies 4,000 troops.  Exports of lard, mead, timber and fur continue.
 * Teutonic Diplomacy: We will help due to us being somewhat allies with Bohemia and will send 5,000 fresh troops to fight the Mongols and protect Europe. 
 * Kingdom of Hungary: Hungary has continued its fortifications of it in case of a Mongol invasion. However, with the devils distracted and pillaging the lands to the north, an opportunity has arose for a counterattack. Knowing that they have the chance to reclaim territory from the devils, they launch a surprise attack over the Carpathians into the lands of the Moldavia taking advantage of the lack of troops and the distraction of the Mongol Army. The force primarily consists of 13k men, consisting of infantrymen, heavy cavalry, and light cavalry scouts. With the remaining army available passes for the Mongols to enter are fortified and kept on heavy watch in case they deign it to trapse into our lands. Concurrently the King Géza III offers the hand of his son Stephen to the daughter of the Count of Tyrol, Margaret [Mod Response]. Meanwhile, with the city of Esztergom, Buda, and Pest academic learning is encouraged and at the now named Royal College of King Géza, the king begins to hire Byzantine, Russian, Italian, and Spanish scholars in order to develop his knowledge and the understanding of various parts of the world. Alexander Baśič returns home from his journey in Africa bringing with him gold, salt, and riches beyond the comparision of men. This begins to spark some interest within the merchant circles in Dalmatia, of this mystical land beyond the Africa. Trade continues to allow the Kingdom to flourish. In order to provide more heirs for the King in order to stabilize the claim of Géza following the death of Elizabeth of Bohemia, we offer the hand of Géza to Joanna of Flanders. [Mod Response] Secretly this is done because she comes from a rich and noble house, but is far enough removed to not be a challenge toward the children of Elizabeth.
 * Both of these are accepted.
 * Yuan China: Well the Emperor is away from Beijing inspecting the state of his armies in preparation for the renewal of the campaigns in Korea, a second coup is launched by general Yexi Xiong and his supporters (who are primarily made up of Christian converts in the court dissatisfied with the new Emperors rolling back of missionary efforts and softening stance on the Confucians) with the backing of the Imperial Guard, who attempt to capture the former Emperor Maxiu with plans to threaten Taiding with his reinstallation, thus forcing him to agree to their demands and implement harsher measures to spread Christianity in contrast to Taidings more moderate stance on the issue. However, in the process they clash with the guards of those Generals who had previously supported the conspiracy to remove Maixu in the hope of reinstating Confucianism, and the plan of keeping fighting to a minimum collapses as violence erupts throughout the city. Although Xiongls forces and the Imperial Guard are ultimately successful in driving the Confucian forces out of the city, in the chaos surrounding the fighting they accidentally kill Maixu, ending any hopes of a peaceful resolution too this conflict. Knowing that if he is defeated he will be executed as a traitor, and feeling like he has no other options if he wants to survive, Xiong declares that the Yuan are forgein barbarians who have betrayed china and lost the mandate of heaven, and declares the beginning of the Xing dynasty, with him as the founder. When he hears of this the Taiding Emperor is enraged and declares Xiong a traitorious usurper, vowing to drive him from the lands of the Yuan and destroy him and all who support him utterly, gathering his forces to do so in the north and preparing to drive Xiong from Beijing. Meanwhile, to the south those who fled from Xiongs coup are able to gather a large amount of support for themselves and sieze control of much of Southern China, declaring Xiong to be a traitorous usurper of the imperial throne and the Yuan to be foriegn barbarian invaders who have betrayed confucianism and must be driven out of China, declaring a boy who they claim to be the last living member of the Song Dynasty the Zhiyěmán Emperor, and vowing that they will destroy the other two factions. This marks the beginning of a civil war that will shape the destiny of the entire nation for centuries too come, and although apart from the initial violence during the coup there has been little fighting yet, this war promises to be a bloody one.
 * Teutonic Order: We see the Mongol invasion of eastern Europe as a threat to us and Christianity. We send 5,000 fresh troops to Bohemia to fight the heretic Mongols and protect Europe. The Grand-master sees the chaos in the HRE and takes pity on those who are living in hell over there. So he donates cloths and some food to parts of the HRE. The Grand-Master has remained silent over the crisis of who is the Emperor in the HRE but he starts to favor Fredrick the Fair more than Loise. We hear of the 2nd Shepherds Crusade and we support the crusade by sending 2,000 Knights to help against the Muslim occupants to make Iberia Christian again.  This years winter is longer and colder than before so the Grand-master orders churches and taverns to let the poor and freezing people inside to keep them warm to survive this grueling winter. We ask the Pope if we could participate in some of the charitable acts that he is doing (Papal Responds Needed). Paslek Castle is built in Eblag. The Town Skalva is founded. We have a short battle with some pagans at Medininkai. Nurberg Castle is built. Colmberg Castle is built. We ask again if Venice will allow us to get into Trade relations with an African nation down south that they recently got trade relations with (Venice Response Needed)
 * Papal Diplomacy: Pope Gregory says that of course, the Teutons can participate in his charitable acts. He suggests the creation of a "Fund of the Poor" in Teutonic territory to deposit money which will be used to help the poor. However, the pope also warns the Teutons to not give support for the Shepherds Crusade, because they are hurting innocent people wherever they go. If possibly, the knights must stop it.
 * Lordship of Ireland: Much and brutal suffering as a result of the famine and disease, very little which can really be done. People begin to leave towns and move to the countryside to get better access to food. Fall in trade and nothing especially good.
 * Archduchy of Lotharingia: "Harba Lorifa":Seeing that Archduke John III does not have a wife or an heir to the throne, and that the Tensions are rising Between our Dear emperor and the states. His Majesty Archduke John III of Lotharingia asks John of Luxembourg if he can have the promise to Marry his daughter Margaret when she comes an adult(Mod response) As Lotharingian succession needs to secured, and the Alliance with Luxembourg and his Majesty Count John of Luxembourg. Seeing that the Count of Loon wants to gradually sell his lands and his domains so he can live a safer and more restful life, John III of Lotharingia offers to buy the right of Count of Loon for the price of 100,000 Brabantine pound, and a plot for him and his descendants at the Averbode Abbey (Mod response). While this is happening the Council of Heyst is looking into how to exactly give seats to the County of Tournai and the Bishopry of Verdun, as Tournais is mostly outside the Holy empire and Verdun is ruled by a bishop. This created alot of Complexity as, the ruler of tournais has to allways look and check if something he does required imperial support. While this happening a full reconciliation between Brabant and Guelders,is getting started as John III wants to end the grudge that started at the Battle of Woeringen. So his Majesty begins making plans to ensure more trade and more prosperity between the nations, John III offering lowering of Taxes and only having the minimal amouth of Soldiers. John III also offering to fully pay for the Future funeral of Renaud as he sees that his future death should be one of Greatness and no shame indeed(mod Response). As Renaud fought Bravely against John I, and he tried to fight what was inevitable Brabantine glory. While this Happening we offer one of our Lesser Vassals Land of Cuijk one seat for the lesser city of Cuijk. As they have gone unrepresented and forgotten for far to long. Cuijk only being a Vassal since the war of Limbourg succession, when they had to join to defend themselves from the Invading guelders. The Lotharingian nobility is called upon by His Majesty John III to gather the army up, for the possibility of war. As even if not wanted war is verry likely, So we openly support the Pope whatever action he does. The sacred duty to Christ and his messenger, so Brabant will indeed help the pope whatever it required. While This is happening Trade with Castile and Nevarre increases, with many African and Asian spices coming to Lotharingia and Specificly antwerp. Antwerp Being known as a city of spices and textile, Some Antwerpine Textile even being reported reaching Africa. While at the same time some Gold is reported reaching Antwerp from the Country of hippoes, this Country Being Know as Mali. Although the Name is known not much else is due to the distance and having castille as a mediator. But the most valuable resource for the Realm is Spice, as it is loved to be put on Food of the merchant and nobility class.
 * Renaud agrees to this
 * Count Arnold V agrees to sell the title. However, his son, Count Louis VI of Chiney, is displeased with this and supports a revolt of local barons
 * Count John of Luxembourg agrees to the marriage
 * Japanese Empire: The Emperor Daigo marches on the Minamoto in earnest after his northern forces subdue the last of the daimyo to the north and either force their submission or force their suicide via Seppuku. This opening of vast tracts of northern land to be reordered brings the Imperial army to the point of destroying unneeded castles and beginning to employ the land redistribution reforms as ordered by Emperor Daigo. The submitted families are brought to reserved small plots of land nearest the capital to keep a much closer eye on them while loyal daimyo (and notable samurai) are handed the new territorial grants of the Emperor. Taking place throughout the year even men to the south waiting to invade the Minamoto are awarded lands. While modest compared to previous land grants it still remains a way to maintain a relatively rich and prosperous aristocracy while also not allowing these feudal lords to be major issues in the way of Imperial governance. The establishment of the reformed Shoen system allowing some semi autonomy and greater latitudes in developmental procedure while paying simply lesser taxes (however, bureaucratic systems are still in place to take note of the developments.) With the secure establishment of the Imperial capital Region made of up of Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya puts a large swathe of central japan under direct oversight of the emperors personal retainers with non hereditary bureaucrats and appointed governors taking up positions within the Capital region with taxes, manpower, development, and grand projects put under the Imperial family. Various other cities specifically in the now pacified north are granted the ability to chose their own governors with no Daimyo given the ability to assert control over a major city. These governors are noted to be fiercely loyal due to their attitude against the former much more exploitative Daimyo who drained much manpower out of the cities to fight their wars. Various former soldiers having accrued quite the amount of coin with their time in service are also able to buy land privately in various regions with the potential for food surplus is much greater under free hold farmers. The Re-codification of the Ritsuryō Law system with major Shinto aspects helps maintain relative stability in pacified parts of the empire. Implementing a codified form of etiquette for the martial nobility it becomes clear the Emperor for many purposes has tamed and brought the daimyo and bushi to heel within Japan. While still technically the security and guards of the estates the Samurais new code of honor decires defense of the defenseless, loyalty to the Emperor, and development for the greater good along side of many more niceties. The Imperial army adds another 5,000 troops this year to its southern army which officially ends the truce and marches against the 30,000 strong Minamoto army.  The first series of battles occurs near Hiroshima as the Minamoto have spent much time extensively fortifying the area and the southern routes into their territory. After three months of campaigning Emperor Daigo and Hiruzen break the defenses and manages to secure the city of Hiroshima all the way down to the coast. The Imperial navy and Minamoto navies begins conducting a long winded campaign for another four months out of the year as failure to take control of the straits will lead to a failure of the campaign. The arrival of newer and larger warships alongside previous designs proves to be the deciding factor as the series of clashes finally results in a close but decisive victory. As the year nears its end the Imperial forces land on Kyushu and the campaign is renewed. The Minamoto fight desperately all across the island hoping for one decisive victory to reclaim the initiative and push back against the emperor. However, his battle hardened and disciplined forced and new organizational and battle strategy proves to be too much for the traditionally based Minamoto armies. The final battle takes place at the Minamoto Capital of Kumamoto. Wishing to be secure in his power after witnessing over 20 years of civil war Emperor Daigo punches a hole through the cities defenses and storms the city in a dramatic battle. After the fall of much of the city leaving only the cities government quarter the Minamoto Daimyo commits seppuku turning over the collapsing clan to his 16-year-old son. As Emperor Daigo marches into the Minamoto palace he is shocked to find a well armed boy standing before him challenging him to a duel. The Duel is short and to the point as the Emperor having spent years training his martial abilities is more than a match for the 16 year old Minamoto Yoshimaru. The boy, however, is not killed and is spared and told that "Seppuku for one who has not yet truly established his honor is a waste." The last rebellious Daimyo finally collapses and the Imperial army garrisons the island of Kyushu and the areas around Hiroshima with 15,000 imperial troops while the rest return to Kyoto with the new Minamoto daimyo held as hostage. Daigos triumphant return to Kyoto is met with fanfare, a military parade, and most importantly the first of the yearly imperial court meetings presided over by the Emperor who now sits with dominant authority over his lords. While technically having broken the major tenants of Japans feudal system with its Manoral complexes and Martial nobility having either been dismantled or reformed, the Empire sees the necessity in reforming the nobility. The first of these "Policy meetings" is conducted and the Emperor and his loyal nobles, aristocrats, and highest bureuacrats preside over the redistribution of the remainder of the northern and southern land holdings. New clans are granted lands to replace extinct or defunct clans while a series of large Imperial holdings are guaranteed in the north and south with every major province of japan maintaining at least one serious Imperial land holding. The redevelopment of the taxing laws as well and the final ability of the Imperial army to scale back many of its purchases has led to a small but noticeable tax surplus as Daigo begins making clear moves to begin the redevelopment of clearly devastated regions of Japan.
 * Papal States: Pope Gregory XI denounces the Shepherd's Crusade as a heretical movement that only incites violence and says that they must be stopped and the Jews protected. The Ecclesial Tribunal continues to investigate cases of simony and abuses of priests and a prison for these clergymen start to be build in outskirts of Rome. Three priests and one monk are imprisoned in Castel Sant'Angelo due to simony and they will be transferred to this prison. The repairs of the Lateran Palace finally come to an end and the pope move there. However, he continues living humbly and using the money to works of charity. Gregory continues to encourage the other members of the clergy to live in this same way. The new hospitals in the Papal States continue to treat the sick, with the Hospital of Rome being the most efficient due to the direct administration of Catharina and Matthias. The construction of the Church of the Divine Mercy continues. With the growing importance of the port of Civitavecchia for the trade of products in the Papal States, a merchant guild is formed. At the request of those merchants, Pope Gregory writes to Lübeck asking for a trade agreement with the Hanseatic League [Lübeck response needed, please]. Pope Gregory starts to plan reforms for the administration of the regions of the Papal States. The agriculture continues to be encouraged and grains are stored in the Barns of the Poor and are used to feed the poor. The production of handicrafts and textiles continues. The city of Ostia gains prominence in the production of sea salt. After hearing about Margaret of Castello, the pontiff creates a commission to investigate her life and the possible miracle, for now he declares Margaret Servant of God. The commission analyzing the case of Francesca Occhino continues with its works and it seems that there is a miracle attributed to her intercession. This miracle will be analyzed. Pope Gregory creates as cardinals Walter Reynolds (England), Jan IV z Dražic (Bohemia-Poland), Alessandro Guidi (Papal States) and Gonçalo Pereira (Portugal). (Secret) Due to the recent events in the Holy Roman Empire, pope Gregory writes to the Rhine States, Cologne, Mainz and Austria saying that Louis is unstable and paranoid. The pontiff says that the emperor is threatening the stability of the Empire by antagonizing with the Hanseatic League, that was so helpful to the workers of charity of the Church during the Famine. He ask them for their support to Louis possibly deposition if the situation get worse (End of Secret) [MOD response needed, please]. In their audience with the Duke of Lithuania, Brother Pietro Benanti and the other monks of the Divine Mercy apologize to the duke and his people for the suffering caused to Lithuania in the name of Christ during the Crusades in their territory. Pietro says that violence is not the way that Jesus teaches and if the duke allow, he and his monks will show to the people of Lithuania Christ's endless goodness and mercy. He ends sayng that acting as a conduit for God's love toward others is the true meaning of being a Christian. He them asks the duke if they can stay in Lithuania to show the true face of the Christianity [MOD response needed, please]. Pope Gregory gives his blessings to the Christians fighting the Mongols on Eastern Europe.
 * All three states secretly support the idea of deposing Louis.
 * The Duke of Lithuania is pleased by the conduct of the monks and permits Christianity to be preached peacefully.
 * Zimbabwe: The Shona successfully rout several attacks from the west and south of their lands by the Nguni and their San allies, who endeavor to break through the defenses of the Shona and loot the homes and livestock of the inhabitants of Zimbabwe. To dissuade further incursions into their territory, the heir of Katonga, Akashinga waKatonga, spearheads a direct attack on the homes and compounds of the Nguni in the south, crossing the Limpopo River with some five thousand warriors, and killing hundreds of Nguni men, women, and children, while setting fire to their homes and placing the dismembered heads and limbs of the Nguni slain on pikes scattered throughout their homeland as a warning to others who dare invade the lands of the Shona. Akashinga's successful punitive invasion of the Nguni lands sees him return home as a hero to countless thousands of Shona subjects throughout Zimbabwe, who hail him as a ruthless warrior dedicated to the protection of his people and their homeland. As a reward for his actions, Katonga has seen fit to install him as the new prince of the first royal district now governed from the port city of Muromo Wenyika, having stripped the former prince of the district and executed him for attempting to rob the Arab traders in the city of their goods. Akashinga quickly takes a liking to his new position in the east, seeing the office has not prevented him from maintaining his warrior lifestyle, as he continues to campaign in the south to keep the Nguni in the southeast from crossing the Limpopo River into Zimbabwe. The great royal road leading from Naletele through Lusvingo and onward to Chibvumani is completed, and immediately witnesses a growth in inter-regional trade between the three cities and their subordinate boma settlements throughout the countryside. With the increase in trade comes the increase in revenue for the state to put toward other endeavors, such as the expansion of the kingdom's gold and silver mines for use in trade with the Arabs and the Swahili to the north, who have begun sending trading expeditions to the south upon hearing of the Arabs successes in trading with the Shona kingdom of Zimbabwe. The Arabs continue to provide swimming and fishing lessons to the Shona living in the new port city, many of whom have quickly taken to the water and learned how to respect the waves under the tutelage of their foreign teachers. Others are deemed proficient enough in the water that several have been allowed to serve as sailors aboard the sailing vessels of the Arabs and Swahili, both of whom have been granted this allowance by the king, who seeks to immerse as many of his people in the ways of the foreigners as possible so as to obtain their wealth and power. Several of the Shona who have successfully proven themselves capable in the water return home to adopt the life of fishermen, opening a new sector of the economy to the Shona, and providing the kingdom with a new source of food. Back in the capital of Lusvingo, the king is provided with the results of the census taken at his demand. The results of the census show a population of 589,263 subjects and 90,000 head of cattle, with many of the latter having been reclaimed from the Nguni during Akashinga's campaign through the south earlier in the year. Dozens of new boma have been constructed throughout the newly cultivated sections of the kingdom, with the population of the average boma in the hundreds as the fertile lands and healthy livestock have provided a degree of food security to the people of Zimbabwe. The construction of the royal road has also allowed crops from the primary urban centers to flow into regions where the land has yet to be cultivated, allowing the inhabitants of the area to sustain themselves while they wait for the next year's harvest to allow them to sustain themselves locally. In Muromo Wenyika, the port is officially opened in a ceremony attended by King Katonga and his son and prince of the city Akashinga, and the various members of the royal court. They welcome the Arab and Swahili traders into the city as friends and allies, and grant them guided tours of the kingdom's interior where the bulk of the nation's resources are extracted to provide for the wealth that allowed for the city to be built in cooperation with the foreigners. The Arabs for their part construct a mosque in the city with the permission of the king, and bring in many goods and services unknown to the Shona such as centers of learning, large markets, and healthcare facilities. These centers primarily cater to the needs of the Arab merchants setting up shop in the city and their clients, though many of the Shona have become intrigued with the new concepts that had once been unknown to them back in the interior. In the far north, Munashe gathers all of his warriors and their families for an address to them regarding his plans for the future of the people. He states that in the five years he has served the Makonde people as a protector of their lands and a warrior of their people, he has been blessed with many experiences he had not expected in his quest to rid his homeland of their insular king and his traditional policies. However, Munashe believes that he has sufficiently repaid his debt to the Makonde for taking him in and sheltering him during his time of need. The Makonde are in the eyes of Munashe, capable for defending themselves with the tools and ideas he equipped them with, and that he must continue on with his personal goal of returning to Zimbabwe to rid the kingdom of Katonga. Though tearful and saddened with Munashe's declaration, the Makonde wish him farewell on his journey, as Munashe departs for Mombasa to see for himself the civilizations of the north he came to know through his education at the feet of his Arab captives. Departing by foot, Munashe leaves with the weapons and clothing of the Arabs and Swahili he released in return for educating him, and with his understanding of their languages as part of that education, Munashe moves to enter into the city of Mombasa to continue with his goal of returning to Zimbabwe equipped with both knowledge and power.
 * Kingdom of Navarre: The Western Patriarch Federico Goikoetxea denounces the Shepherds' Crusade as senseless violence, calling on the participants to cease as this violence is not in the will of God. King Louis I allows some Jewish refugees from Gascony into Navarre for their protection. The Western Church's missionaries in Gascony and northern Castile continue their work recruiting Basque peasants and also call for the Shepherds' Crusade to end. The Navarrese government focuses on expanding the fortifications of the cities of Iruñea/Pamplona, Donostia/San Sebastián and Tudela, and the military increases recruitment efforts, recruiting 500 new soldiers and employing various mercenaries. (Secret) Louis I sends an envoy to Denis I, King of Portugal proposing a military alliance between Navarre and Portugal as the nations have a mutual interest in defending against the aggressive expansionism of Aragon-Castile. (Mod response) (End secret) Louis I and Margaret of Burgundy have a fifth child, a son named Charles. However, he dies of a disease at four months of age, leaving them again with three surviving children, Victor, Frederick and Sophia.
 * Portugal tentatively agrees to a secret alliance, but generally does not want to antagonize Castile.
 * Jarldom of Greenland: During a cavalry exercise with the royal cavalry, Jarl Brunhilde falls dead down from the horse and is succeeded by her oldest child,princess Alexandra who takes the name of Brunhilda II. The late jarl is laid to rest in the royal cathedral in the capital of Nuuk. The two week long coronation takes place two months later in an elaborate ceremony which reveals that lack of any sort of crown jewels,we begin to scout the island looking for valuable metals to make them of. Meanwhile, seeing the decrease in temperature,the Jarl issues a royal decree stating that a new village constructed with stone houses an fireplaces will be built.
 * Bohemia Poland: Wencelsaus III continues to to carry hold the line at the Vistula and in Lviv. He takes heart in the news of desertions by the Rus, this gives him a renewed resolution that he is carrying out the will of god and honouring the legacy of his father. He takes a renewed interest in the Order of St Wenceslaus increasing its numbers and placing it under the command of his brother-in-law and right hand, Henry Piast of Wroclow. He sends an envoy to his new found allies the Lithuanians requesting they attack Warsaw while Henry  of Wroclow led 20,000 troops  themselves to attack the Mongols amassing at Warsaw through Plock to attack them from the west while their supply lines are disrupted by the Russian revolts. Secretly the envoy also offer marriage between Wenceslaus III's brother Ottokar and Gendminas's daughter while also privately offering a chance to discuss a possible division of Mongol and Rus' lands, with Wenceslaus III seeing Gendminas as a strong barrier against further Mongol or steppe peoples incursions into eastern Europe. Wenceslaus III also offers to serve as a godfather to Gendminas or his children should they decide to convert to Catholicism as a sign of comradery between the Bohemians, Poles, and Lithuanians. (Mod Response). Wenceslaus III attends a great mass in the Great cathedral of Krakow built by his father, and sends word to Rome to ask  for Papal blessing the war against the Eastern Heathens. Wenceslaus III himself leads an assault on  Lublin  leading 20,000 of his own men and an contingent of 10,000 well paid mercenaries from Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. Krakow and Praga continue to grow as centers of learning and of sciences with an influx of Italian, German, and other foreign scholars. The disturbing stories out of Kutna Hora continue but without much attention being paid to it with the war in Poland drawing the attention of the crown. Noting the colder weather Wenceslaus III makes provisions to procure as much grain as possible through the Baltic, Transcarpathian region, and northern Italy to make sure that enough supplies are to had to feed his domains and his campaigning armies while foraging.
 * Duke Gendminas agrees to join the coalition, and to allow his daughter Aldona to marry Ottokar, at which point she will be baptized.
 * Republic of Milan: The navy continues to grow at astonishing rates, with the ship production beginning to reach the expected numbers of roughly a little over half of Venice's daily. The Long lances numbering 12,000 begin to look for work outside specifically once again looking to Bohemia as they prepare for a battle against the Mongols. (Bohemian response needed). A number of bankers of the Mercenary Bank look outward to begin financing other mercenary groups throughout Southern Germany and Northern Italy looking to consolidate the mercenary groups. (Mod Response needed on success). Galleazzo makes a statement saying that these next years will be used to consolidate the Milanese realm and better the lives of the peasantry as well as grow the income of Milan back to its “Normal levels”.
 * Bohemian Diplomacy: Wenceslaus III contracts the Long Lancers to assist in the crown in the war against Mongols in particular to assist in the attack on Lublin.
 * The Imamate: The 20,000 Mamluk Soldiers have seized control over the Belen Pass, and with it the Amamos Mountains and the cities within the mountains, including Alexandretta, Portella, and Payas, adding vast wealth and power to the Soldiers, who consolidate their gains before marching upon Kars, the last city standing between the Soldiers and the Sicilian capital, Sis. The conquered lands of Derbesak and the Amanos Mountains, including its cities are given to Aleppo to administer over, the now true home of the Mamluk soldiers and their families. Since these lands are now ruled by Aleppo it is now called Aleppine Cicilia.

1321
''' Yet another poor harvest causes a famine in Europe, not as bad as the Great Famine. '''

''' The Second Shepherd's Crusade proceeds to invade Navarre, continuing to attack Jewish and Muslim settlements they come across. The sheer attrition and actions of the Catholic Church have caused their numbers to decrease dramatically. '''

''' No sooner that they leave France that a new terror appears in Europe. A local inquisitor in Tolouse named Jacques Fornier reports that thousands of lepers across France have entered a secret conspiracy. Their goal is to poison wells and water supplies with their disease, as an act of vengence against society for constantly shunning and discriminating them. King Sancho of Majorca reports that this conspiracy is also in Aragon as well, orchestrated by the Emirate of Grenada as a plot against Christian Iberia. '''

''' Growing tired of Edward II's consistent favoritism toward the Despensers, Roger Mortimer leads a rebellion across Wales and western England, with the support of the Duke of Lancaster and the Marcher Lords. Their faction has a total of 10,000 troops. '''

''' The University of Florence is established, bringing a far greater supply of knowledge and classic literature into Tuscany. Most significantly, Dante Alighieri publishes his monumental work The Divine Comedy this year, forever defining the Italian language. '''

''' But Italy is not the only place of central learning, as this year Ibn Al-Banna in Marrakesh publishes works on algebra and engineering of canals. '''

''' King Stephan Uros II of Serbia dies, and the kingdom falls into civil war between his sons, named Stephan Constantine and Stephan Uros. '''

''' After the death of Co-Emperor Michael IX of Byzantium, his son Andronicus Angelos usurps the title of Co-Emperor to succeed him, initiating an uprising against the current Emperor Andronicus II. '''

Algos on the war with the Mongols will come shortly


 * Mali Empire: Infrastructure for cities of Dakar, Timbuktu, Niani and Gao continue to be expanded along with large agricultural centers across the Empire. Millet, rice sorghum and baobab vegetables continue to be staple crops in this agricultural development. Some architecture in Dakar and Timbuktu start to take drastically different appearences, due to different cultural influences of the trade centers there. Aragon, Venice, and Brabant are now considered familiar trading partners, with some promises of encountering more Europeans indirectly. Some independent feudal nobles take advantage of the cooling temperatures to expand settlements into the Sahara Desert, creating many smaller cities as well as local carrier depots for both commercial and military use. These are also expanded southward, into Central Nigeria to facilitate the continual war in the Bornu Empire, as well as south of Wagadugu to begin consistent hunting of wild elephants. Local feudal lords of Mali continue to enjoy a sumptuous lifestyle using exotic animals and slaves from distant lands. But for Musa, his focus was entirely on the work dedicated before him to conquer Kanem. After Musa seized control of Lake Chad, he held an informal court across all the peaseats and local clan leaders of the Kanem region, attempting to restore order personally as the Bornu Empire is nearly collapsing. Thousands of common farmers, peasants and tribal leaders came to pay homage to Mansa Musa, and respected him as a great leader far greater leader than the Sons of Abdullah, the titular Emperor of Bornu. Finally, a large group of military from Bornu came to swear their alligence to Musa. They explained that Abdullah, the Emperor of Kanem, was brutally murdered by an uprising of the So people, and now the military has defected to the House of Keita and proclaim him, Mansa Musa, as Emperor of Kanem-Bornu. Musa graciously accepted this honor, and had declared that Selma ibn Abdullah, who sits in the current capital city of Njimi, to be in rebellion against his rule. Musa leads his army of 60,000 troops to begin the siege of Njimi, bringing a small number of war elephants to use as the most basic forms of siege equipment. The military will be divided into two groups of 30,000 each, to strike at western and southern flanks respectively as they close in on the city. The remaining military not used on this battle will help to occupy and assimilate the current regions of western Bornu, and pacify the region under the House of Keita.[Algo requested]
 * Kingdom of Navarre: As the Second Shepherds' Crusade enters Navarre, the government moves Jews from small towns into the fortified cities of Iruñea/Pamplona, Donostia/San Sebastián and Tudela for their protection. The nation's military is divided between these three cities to prevent the thuggish brutes of the Shepherds from coming inside, though they are essentially allowed free roam of the countryside due to their dwindling numbers and their stated desire to push further into Iberia which means they would not remain in Navarrese territory for long. However, Western Patriarch Federico Goikoetxea continues to call for an end to the senseless violence of the Shepherds' Crusade. Funding for fishermen in the Bay of Biscay is again boosted during the famine, and as soon as the Shepherds pass through the Navarrese countryside the military is set to work helping peasants repair any damages the mob caused to their farms and provide relief for the famine. Western Church missionaries in Gascony also help the locals there with repairing damages caused by the Shepherds.
 * Tarascan State: Tariácuri, with the second message from Curicaueri, continues to urbanize Tzintzuntzan and Angamuco. With the aid of Urichu, Erongarícuaro, Pechátaro, and Jarácuaro, expansion is made to the west toward the sea while settlers scan the geography for adequate housing locations. In Tzintzuntzan, military barracks are installed under a new philosophy meant to minimize the total numbers while maximize strategy and efficiency. With this, it is decided that roughly one-fifth of all male adults at the age of 14 must begin militant training, spending upward of 12 years in a faction of 25 before they are able to retire to a live of serenity before reaching the skies. The Assembly of Pátzcuaro votes toward the creation of a tributary system and a plans to reform bureaucracy over the coming years. While not limiting Tariácuri's power, it would allow Citlali's military power to be expanded. After completely destroying the confederation, the primary policy over the newly acquired territory continues to be conducted for another six years. The coast is finally reached and settlements are established. With this, fishing is established as a form of gathering food, while the major agricultural and cattle regions in the former Jalisco are absorbed and owned by warriors and nobles. Tariácuri's sons, Hiripan and Tangáxoan, are installed as lords of Ihuatzio and Tzintzuntzan, allowing domestic rule while maintaining military alliances. Mining occurs in the recently conquered Jalisco region, which produces large obsidian deposits. While iron and bronze had been used primarily, the creation of obsidian spears, short swords, and knives occur. A new faction in the military is created by Citlali called the "Chicahtoc Tlacatl", who dress in all black linens and carry these obsidian weapons to attack in the night. They number roughly 1,000, and consist of harshly trained militants in an effort to help produce savages. To help create a more mainstream and easier means of production for amate, Tariácuri begins writing a language script for the Purépecha so as to end the over-usage of pictograms and make the understanding of text much easier. He is assisted to some degree by the shaman Nathecul, who uses his status and beliefs to help with the communication of this new language script to the masses.


 * Sultanat-e-Hindustan: Malik Kafur attacks Delhi in late January and easily defeats the forces of Ulugh Khan and Nusrat Khan. Ulugh Khan is killed on the battlefield and Malik Kafur sends Ulugh Khan’s head to Khizr Khan in Kara. Nusrat Khan escapes with the remaining forces to Lahore and joins up with Shadi Khan. Meanwhile, Humayu Khan’s forces are able to defeat the Kabuli garrison and secure the area. Humayun Khan’s forces block the Khyber Pass while a contingent secures the Jammu-Kashmir region. Malik Kafur leads his forces toward Lahore and attacks Lahore in conjunction with Alp Khan’s forces. Ghazi Malik leads the attack and in a brave attempt, he dislodges Shadi Khan from his horse and kills him. The attack is successful and Lahore is captured. Nusrat Khan is taken to Delhi and beheaded. Khizr Khan Khilji accepts the title of Sultan-e-Hind and formalises the name of his Empire as Sultanat-e-Hindustan. The Sultan bestows many gifts on the nobles that supported him. The Sultan elevates Ghazi Malik to the rank of a noble, makes him a part of the Chalisa. Malik Kafur is also bestowed with many gifts and honours and is made the Head of the Military. Feroze Malik is made the Amir-i-Mamalik (Head of the Diwan-i-Mamalik). Qutbuddin Mubarak Shah, Alauddin’s third son is made the Wazir. Alp Khan remains the governor of Gujarat and is bestowed with many gifts and honours. Malik Kafur renames Devagiri as Alaipur in honour of Alauddin Khilji. The Sultan orders the construction of Alauddin Khilji’s tomb in the Siri Fort Complex in Delhi. The Sultan reorganises the Sultanate. The Kabul iqta remains as it was. The Peshawar iqta is merged into the Lahore iqta. The iqta of Nagaur is created with its capital at Nagaur. The iqtas of Malwa and Awadh remain as they were. The iqta of Devagiri (now Alaipur) is divided into two, the iqta of Alaipur and the iqta of Sultanpur (a new city established in Goa). The Governor of Peshawar, Humayun Khan is made the Governor of Kabul. Muhammad Shah is made the Governor of Lahore. Mahmud Shah is made the Governor of Multan. Ghazi Malik is made the Governor of Nagaur. Sultan Khizr Khan Khilji makes himself the Governor of the iqta of Delhi. Jamshed Mir, a close friend of Khizr Khan is made the Governor of Awadh. Khusro Khan is made the Governor of Alaipur. Ahmad Shah becomes the Governor of Sultanpur. Having regained control of the Sultanate, the Sultanate and the Chalisa decide that it is not worth taking over Zaranj as it does not possess any valuable resources and it is not worth fighting over a bunch of rocks and mountains. The Sultanate still does not recognise the Zaranj Sultanate and stations a permanent force of two tumen in Kabul.
 * Belur Sultanate: Madhavcharya starts touring the other states of South India and spreads his ideology of Advaita Vedanta. He establishes a Matth in Belur, the Belur Matth, as the main center of learning of the Advaita Vedanta philosophy. His actions are patronized by the Sultan Veera Ballala III.
 * Papal States: Due to the poor harvests of this year, the Church repeats the same charity acts done during the Great Famine. The grains that were store in the Barns of the Poor are used to feed the people and the money in the Fund of the Poor is used to buy any food available. Soon crowds are formed in the front of monasteries and convents across the Papal States seeking for food. The poor of Rome seeks the help of Matthias and Catharina, the "Twin Saints", and they continue to distribute food. The people start to call the bread with nuts distributed by Catharina and her fellow nuns of the Divine Mercy as the "mercy bread". Pope Gregory XI also starts to distribute food in front of the Basilica of Saint Peter. The pontiff thinks that this new famine is a signal that God isn't satisfied with his efforts to reform the Church, and again exhort the clergy to have more humble lives. Once again fish turns into a important food item and due to the growing production of sea salt in Ostia, there is more ways to conserve it besides smoked fish. The pope continues to condemn the Shepherds' Crusade and says that they must be stoped. The construction of the Church of the Divine Mercy and of the prision for simonists continue. The Ecclesial Tribunal continues its investigation of cases of simony and misconduct. The commission that is studying the case of Francesca Occhino is now analyzing the cure of the hand paralysis of a boy after his mother prayed for Francesca's intercession. Pope Gregory creates as cardinals Nankier Kołda (Bohemia-Poland) and Henry IV of Aspremont (Verdun). After hearing about the plot of lepers wanting to contaminate France, the pope asks inquisitor Jacques Fornier if he has physical evidence that this is true [MOD response needed, please]. After receiving a letter from Pietro Benanti saying that they are spreading the Word of God in Lithuania, the pope starts to pray for the conversion of Lithuania to Christianity. Due to the efforts that king Wenceslau is doing to stop the pagan Mongols of invading Europe, Pope Gregory gives to the king of Bohemia-Poland the title "Defender of the Faith".
 * Kingdom of England: With Roger Mortimer launching a rebellion with the support of the Earl of Lancaster, King Edward II responds by raising a Force of 15,000 troops to confront the Rebellious Marcher Lords and moving his forces into Wales and Western England to defeat the Rebels before they could fully mobilize against his forces (Algo Needed, Please). In addition, Edward mobilizes a force of 7,000 Irishmen and a fleet of over 40 ships in order to cross the Irish Sea and invade Wales from the West in coordination with the King’s main thrust (Algo Also Needed). Meanwhile, with the Shepherds Crusade ravaging the Duchy of  Gascony, the Duke of Gascony mobilizes a force of 5,000 troops and moves forward to intervene in Navarre in order to support the king of Navarre and help the Kingdom of Navarre crush the Crusaders as they move into Navarre. Meanwhile, reconstruction efforts begin in Gascony in order to repair all damaged and destroyed property while some Crusaders captured by the Local Gasconian Forces are charged with heresy and are either imprisoned, or executed for their crimes against the fair Jewish people of Gascony.
 * Kingdom of Sicily: The Romans's Sicily launch an crusade with the people pagans, so they accros and fought on battle on the southern territorial the mecenarys push it off the pagan and the pagans sicilians took an siege on the south bassin of sicily the locals sicilans force accros the south territorial with among 1k army and calvary the calvary push the fire on it and the pagan capture most of sicilians soldier.
 * Yuan China: The civil war which began last year begins being fought in ernest at the begining of this year, with all three major factions having prepared for fighting and now being ready to bring the fight to the others. The Yuan begin the year with most of northern China, Mongolia and Manchuria under their control, with the 's control ending not far from Beijing. As it turns out, the Emperor Yexi Xiong actully controls the smallest amount of territory of the three factions, controling most of Henan, Shaanxi, and everything below Beijing before Song territory. In the south the "Song" have siezed control of most of the lands bellow the Henan area, well the Yuan control everything North of Beijing As a result of having the smallest territory, the Xing Emperor is forced to put himself on the defensive and dig in and fortify as much as possible the areas surrounding Beijing, leaving his southern lands vulnerable too attack, and the Song forces take advantage of this too solidify there control over the south well launching an offensive into Henan and Shannxi in September well the Xiong forces are focused on defending against the Yuan, who attack into his territory from the north and, led by the enraged Taiding Emperor, force him too flee Beijing and retreat south, leaving most of northern China in the hands of the Yuan. The Song continue to press their advantage after his defeat, siezing most of his territory bellow the Yellow river and some parts of southern Shannxi. This leaves the Xing in an extremley bad position, and thus they are now unlikley to win the war. However, between the Song and the Yuan, it remains to be seen who will be victorious, with the fighting in the next year being likley to be the deciding factor in the war.
 * Archduchy of Lotharingia: "Harba Lorifa": There is a new tittle to the Lotharingian realm, Count of Loon. His Majesty John III having bought the tittle of Count of Loon, from the current Count of Loon Arnold V of Looz. John becomming John II of Looz officialy even if he uses the Name John III under the pretext that his Uncle was the count for the period when the deal was made thus making him John III still. Even if this a manouver just for the sake of naming it is still done by his majesty as he wants simplicity in his realm. While this is happening his Majesty archduke John III reaches out to nations far and close wanting to ally with them, An offer for a defensive Alliance is send to Renoud the Count of Guelders, and The bishop of Both Utrecht and even Liege(Mod Responses). As for now local grudges are less important than to defend independence and introduce reform into the realm, as The Archduke now truely belives that the emperor is a tyrant that is neither christian nor sane. John III begins to make his voice clear on his want of Imperial reform, where the Hierarchy is simpler and more defined. Where Under the emperor the tittles are well defined of who listens to who, where a Duke listens to a king, and a Count listens to a Duke. While John III is unsure on how the role would be of the emperor himself he does belive that this kind Hierarchy, could possibly make it easier to be ruled and managed. John III calling this reform "Einigheit ordnung" as this is a ordening for the unity of the Realm. Due to the Unstability in the Realm Archduke John III also begins get his army ready once more, The Archers of  Brabant being readied the most and in the greatest numbers. The Number of Soldiers allready readied being a total of 10,000 with more being called to face the possible treat, His majesty asking the Bishop of Verdun and Tournais to aid Lotharingia by sending soldiers to Malines to prepare for a fight against imperial Tyrany(Mod Response). John III also looking into improving his army of the Realm, one of the manners he's doing it is by making archery training mandatory. While some times also giving grants to towns and cities if they can get their city guards up to a certain quality, quality serounds mostly guards their gear and ration. John III mostly wanting better quality rations with enough meat and the least amouth of filler, fillers being things like wallnut and the lowest of quality grains. Meat that is most eaten is pig and cow meat, with the restants of meat are begining to be used mostly in stews. The archduke even forbits using meat restants that is unworked as part of a soldiers meat ration is to meager and not able to keep a men in spirit. To help the spirit of soldiers and the country as a whole, is getting new spices from far away. To get these spices Many ships are build that are getting bigger and bigger, and mostly deeper hulls. These hulls made deeper so that they can carry more cargo, cargo such as spices and Gold. Gold Coming from Mali trough Castille and nevarre and Spices coming from the asia and the east. Spices from lands not know, Trades who go to the mediteranian only knowing it comes from Beyond the Indus.
 * The Rhine states support Brabant against the Emperor
 * Teutonic Order: It is a sad year for the Order because our Grand-master Siegfried von Fuechtwangen has died of smallpox. His successor is Werner von Orslen. The last thing that that Siegfried did before he died was that he and the Order give full support to Fredrick the Fair to become Emperor of the HRE. the first thing that Orslen did was pulled out troops from the 2nd Shepherds Crusade and wrote a apology to the Kingdom of Navarre for the damages caused(Navarre Responds Needed). Orslen also reveled that Siegfreied was a closet anti-semetic and joined the crusade to fulfilled his anti Jewish deeds.We agree to set up a Fund to the Poor to help poor people and get better relations with the Pope. a small famine has occurred but due to us getting salt and fish from Lubeck and with the recently fund to poor deaths are not as high as the Great Famine before. the town of Golub is founded.the town of  Barendt is founded. the town of Trakai is founded. Bytow Castle is built.We send some priests to pacify and civilize the Lekow tribe. the town of Tzzew is founded. We built a fort in Radzyn Chelminski. town town of Swieriki is founded. We ask one more time if Venice can tell the Hansetic League where they if they can give us trade relations with a nation down south(Mali) that they recetly got trade relations with(Venice Responds Needed).