Principia Moderni III (Map Game)

Principia Moderni, or "The Beginning of the Modern" in Late Latin, was a map game beginning in the final days of the Middle Ages in Europe, and the early days of the Ming Dynasty in China - in 1400 C. E, a turbulent era; in other words, an era of change; an era in which power is cemented. The first game was perhaps the most successful map game on the wiki in terms of length, finishing without dying and plausible expansions. However, it did have its problems, and has now finished. The second game, instead of being a worthy successor to the first, was marred by over-expansionism, feuds between players, ambiguity in the rules, which often caused controversy on wars between player nations, over-competitiveness, and overall inactivity of the moderators, but was nevertheless successful in reaching the Modern Age. And thus, this third installment has been created. Welcome to Principia Moderni III!

'''And on the first day, the LORD proclaimed that the game would have 50 players. And so 50 players it had. And He said the record shall be broken, and the record was broken.'''

'''And on the second day, he said that the game would have 52 players! And 52 players it did have! And he said the record would be broken once more. And so it was broken once more.'''

Moderators
Look at that perfect number of mods/mapmaker. Do not dare to disturb it. Ever.
 * 1) Andr3w777
 * 2) Collie Kaltenbrunner (Moderator-in-Chief, Assistant Mapmaker)
 * 3) Callumthered
 * 4) Commandante Lemming
 * 5) CourageousLife
 * 6) CrimsonAssassin
 * 7) DeanSims
 * 8) Fedelede
 * 9) Monster Pumpkin
 * 10) Mscoree
 * 11) Scandinator (Mapmaker, Disaster Mod)
 * 12) Scrawland Scribblescratch (Mapmaker only)
 * 13) Sine dei gloriem
 * 14) VonGlusenburg

Current Map


Note to all Mapmakers, keep the px size at 1000px please. Thank you.

Sign-ups (Please do not edit)
Please do not panic, the claims have been saved but the nation's list is being modified. Nations marked with ** are not avaliable.

Western Europe (France & Iberia)

 * Lordship of Albret --
 * Andorra --
 * Anjou (Personal Union under Provence) -- Mawilda
 * Aragon -- Scrawland Scribblescratch (talk)
 * Comtat Venaissin/Avignon (residence of the Antipope) --
 * Brittany (Civil Disarray) --
 * Castille -- Feudalplague (talk)
 * Foix (General Disorder) --
 * French lands (civil conflict with multiple factions competing for dominance, controlled by Valois, king in madness) **
 * Alençon (Dynastic Union with Valois) --
 * Angoulême (No Ruler, governed by Valois) -- Sine dei gloriem (talk)
 * Armagnac (Dynastic Union with Valois) --
 * Auvergne (Personal Union with Berry) --
 * Berry (Dynastic Union with Valois) --
 * Blois (Personal Union under Orléans) --
 * Bourbon (Dynastic Union with Valois) --
 * Duchy of Burgundy (Dynastic Union with Valois)--
 * Dunois (Personal Union under Orléans) --
 * Forez (Personal Union under Bourbon) --
 * French royal lands (Ruled by Valois) -- Sine dei gloriem (talk)
 * La Marche (Dynastic Union with Bourbon) --
 * Nemours (Personal Union with Armagnac) --
 * Nevers (Dynastic Union with Burgundy) --
 * Orléans (Dynastic Union with Valois) --
 * Parthenay (Vassal of Orléans) --
 * Périgord (Personal Union under Orléans) --
 * Rodez (Personal Union with Armagnac) --
 * Valois -- Sine dei gloriem (talk)
 * Vendôme (Personal Union under La Marche) --
 * Granada (Vassal of Castille) -- Feudalplague (talk)
 * Limoges --
 * Navarra (Dynastic Union with Valois) --
 * Portugal -- Collie Kaltenbrunner (talk)
 * Saluzzo (Vassal of France) -- Sine dei gloriem (talk)

Northern Europe (Britain & Scandinavia)

 * Bréifne --
 * Desmond -- Bfoxius (talk)
 * Ulster -- Local Mafia Boss (Talk) (Blog)
 * England -- Trust Me, I'm The Doctor (talk)
 * Kalmar Union
 * Denmark -- GunsnadGlory (talk)
 * Norway -- GunsnadGlory (talk)
 * Schleswig -- GunsnadGlory (talk)
 * Sweden -- GunsnadGlory (talk)
 * Leinster --
 * MacCarthy --
 * Mayo --
 * O'Sullivan --
 * Ormond (Puppet of England) -- Trust Me, I'm The Doctor (talk)
 * Scotland -- LightningLynx89 (talk)
 * Sligo --
 * Thomond --
 * Tyrone --
 * Wales (In revolt from England) -- Bowties are Cool (talk)
 * Westmeath (Puppet of England) -- Trust Me, I'm The Doctor (talk)

HRE (I've outdone myself, 117 states on the map and in the game for the HRE... Scandinator (talk), needs a new hobby) (*Guns facepalms*)

 * Alpine HRE States
 * Aargau --
 * Austria -- Mscoree (talk)
 * Basel --
 * Chur --
 * Cilli (Vassal of Hungary) -- Reserved for Imp
 * Freibourg --
 * Gorizia --
 * Montfort --
 * Swiss Confederacy -- Daeseunglim (talk)
 * Salzburg --
 * Three Leagues --
 * Wallis --
 * Bohemian HRE States (Vassal states to Bohemia, except Moravia)
 * Bohemia -- Millgy (talk)
 * Brieg -- Millgy (talk)
 * Falkenburg -- Millgy (talk)
 * Glogau -- Millgy (talk)
 * Liegnitz -- Millgy (talk)
 * Moravia (Dynastic Union with Bohemia) -- This is UglyTurtle, Signing off.
 * Oels -- Millgy (talk)
 * Opole -- Millgy (talk)
 * Ratibor -- Millgy (talk)
 * Severien -- Millgy (talk)
 * Strehlitz -- Millgy (talk)
 * Teschen -- Millgy (talk)
 * Troppau -- Millgy (talk)
 * who is millgy i dsapprove of any unknowns taking over a nation of such importance such as Bohemia sorry no offence Nkbeeching (talk)
 * Frankish and Dutch HRE States
 * Bar --
 * Brabant --
 * Breda --
 * County of Burgundy (Personal union under the Duchy of Burgundy) --
 * Cambrai (Bishopric) --
 * Flanders (Personal Union with Burgundy) --
 * Friesland (Lack of Central Authority) --
 * Geldern (Disorganized, Personal Union under Jülich) --
 * Hainaut (Dynastical Union with Bavaria) -Nkbeeching (talk)
 * Holland (Personal Union under Hainaut) --  Nkbeeching (talk)
 * Liege (Prince-Bishopric) --
 * Limburg --
 * Lorraine --
 * Luxembourg (Personal Union under Moravia) -- This is UglyTurtle, Signing off.
 * Metz --
 * Namur --
 * Straßburg --
 * Sundgau (Vassal of Austria) -- Mscoree (talk)
 * Utrecht (Bishopric) --
 * Verdun --
 * German HRE States (Under construction)
 * Anhalt --
 * Augsburg --
 * Baden --
 * Bamberg --
 * Bayern-Ingolstadt --
 * Bayern-Landshut -- Cookiedamage (talk)
 * Bayern-Munchen --
 * Bayern-Straubing --
 * Berg (Dynastic Union with Jülich) --
 * Brandenburg (Personal Union under Moravia) --This is UglyTurtle, Signing off.
 * Breisgau (Vassal of Austria) -- Mscoree (talk)
 * Bremen (Bishopric) --
 * Bruchhausen --
 * Brunswick-Göttingen (Fragmented) --
 * Brunswick-Lüneburg --
 * Burgau (Fragmented) --
 * Burggrafschaft --
 * Cleves-Mark --
 * Frankfurt --
 * Fürstenburg --
 * Hamburg -- I am that guy (talk)
 * Hesse --
 * Hohenlohe --
 * Holstein (Vassal of Denmark) -- reserved for guns
 * Jülich --
 * Kempten --
 * Köln (Prince-Bishopric)-- Mapd00d (talk)
 * Konstanz --
 * Lippe --
 * Magdeburg (Prince-Bishopric) --
 * Mainz (Prince-Bishopric, Fragmented) --
 * Mecklenburg --Flownder10 (talk)
 * Meissen --
 * Münster (Prince-Bishopric) --
 * Nassau --
 * Nürnburg (Fragmented) --
 * Oettingen (Fragmented) --
 * Oldenburg -- reserved for my fellow Aussie, Callum. Thanks Scan, Callumthered (talk)
 * Osnabrück (Prince-Bishopric) --
 * Paderborn (Prince-Bishopric) --
 * Pfalz (Dynastical Union with Bavaria) (Fragmented) --
 * Pomerania-Stettin --
 * Pomerania-Wolgast --
 * Ruppin (Disorganized and Weak) --
 * Saxe-Lauenburg --
 * Saxony --User:The old baby 2
 * The Hansa --
 * Thuringia (Fragmented) --
 * Trier (Prince-Bishopric)-- NonEuclidean (talk)
 * Ulm --
 * Westfalen (Personal Union under Köln) -- Mapd00d (talk)
 * Württemburg (Fragmented) --
 * Würzburg (Bishopric) --
 * Zweibrücken (Fragmented) --
 * Italian HRE States
 * Aquileia (Patriarchate, Disorganized) --
 * d'Asti --
 * Ferrara --
 * Florence -- CrimsonAssassin (talk)
 * Genoa -- Octivian Marius (talk)
 * Mantua --
 * Milan -- Tr0llis (talk)
 * Modena --
 * Monaco --
 * Montferrat (Dynastic Union with the Roman Empire) --
 * Padua --
 * Provence --  Mawilda
 * Savoy -- Zengu (talk)
 * Siena (Personal Union under Milan) -- Tr0llis (talk)
 * Sovana --

Southern Europe (Italy & the Balkans)

 * Achaia --
 * Aegina (Vassal of Venice) -- Kunarian (talk)
 * Arborea --
 * Ancona (Vassal of the Papal States) -- Spartian300 (talk)
 * Arta --
 * Athens  (Military Rule of Venice) -- Kunarian (talk)
 * Berat --
 * Bologna -- (Vassal of the Papal States) -- Spartian300 (talk)
 * Bosnia --
 * Roman (Byzantine) Empire -- Monster Pumpkin
 * Cephallenia --
 * Corfu (Vassal of Venice) -- Kunarian (talk)
 * Croatia (Personal Union with Hungary) -- [[Image:1.png|23px]] Imp (Say Hi?!)
 * Dukagjini --
 * Epirus --
 * Garay (Vassal of Hungary) -- [[Image:1.png|23px]] Imp (Say Hi?!)
 * Hungary -- [[Image:1.png|23px]] Imp (Say Hi?!)
 * Moldavia (Vassal of Poland)  --
 * Montefeltro (Vassal of the Papal States) -- Spartian300 (talk)
 * Naples -- Quashi (talk)
 * Naxos (Vassal of Venice) -- Kunarian (talk)
 * Negroponte (Vassal of Venice) -- Kunarian (talk)
 * Papal States (Disorganized) -- Spartian300 (talk)
 * Perugia (Vassal of the Papal States) -- Spartian300 (talk)
 * Piombino --
 * Ragusa --
 * Raška --
 * Serbia (Vassal of the Ottomans) -- ChrisL123 (talk) (unless someone else wants to play as Serbia)
 * Sicily (Dynastic Union with Aragon) -- DatStar (talk)
 * Split (Vassal of Hungary) -- [[Image:1.png|23px]] Imp (Say Hi?!)
 * Valona --
 * Venice -- Kunarian (talk)
 * Wallachia -- Stephanus rex (talk)
 * Zachlumia (Vassal of Bosnia) -- Airlinesguy (talk)
 * Zeta --

Eastern Europe

 * Chernigov (Lithuanian Vassal) --
 * Courland --
 * Dorpat --
 * Great Perm -- Ratc3333 Here, Prepare for Combat (talk)
 * Golden Horde -- Fed  (talk)
 * Lithuania --
 * Mazovia (Polish Vassal) --
 * Moscovy -- User:Edboy452 [[Image:Flag of Romania.svg|25px|border]] [[Image:Flag of German Reich (1935–1945).svg|25px|border]] [[Image:Flag of Israel.svg|25px|border]] [[Image:Flag of the Soviet Union.svg|25px|border]] (talk)
 * Novgorod -- RazorFangZ14 (talk)
 * Osel-Wiek --
 * Poland --
 * Pskov (Muscowite vassal) -- User:Edboy452 [[Image:Flag of Romania.svg|25px|border]] [[Image:Flag of German Reich (1935–1945).svg|25px|border]] [[Image:Flag of Israel.svg|25px|border]] [[Image:Flag of the Soviet Union.svg|25px|border]] (talk)
 * Riga --
 * Rostov --
 * Ryazan --
 * Smolensk (Lithuanian Vassal) --
 * Teutonic Order -- Yank
 * Theodoro --
 * Trubetsk (Disorganized) --
 * Tver --
 * Ustyug (Vassal of Moscovy) -- User:Edboy452 [[Image:Flag of Romania.svg|25px|border]] [[Image:Flag of German Reich (1935–1945).svg|25px|border]] [[Image:Flag of Israel.svg|25px|border]] [[Image:Flag of the Soviet Union.svg|25px|border]] (talk)
 * Viatka --
 * Yaroslavl --

Anatolia & Caucasia

 * Avars (Disorganised) --
 * Circassia (Disorganised) --
 * Cyprus --
 * Dido (Disorganised) --
 * Dulkadir --
 * Erzincan (Vassal of Timurids) -- DS
 * Federation of the Black Sheep (Vassal of Ottomans, occupied by Timurids) -- ChrisL123
 * Federation of the White Sheep (Vassal of Timurids) -- DS
 * Georgia --
 * Karaman --
 * Leks (Disorganised) --
 * Mardin --
 * Ossetia (Disorganised) --
 * Ottoman Empire -- ChrisL123
 * Ramazan (Vassal of Mamluks) --
 * Sinope (Disorganised) --
 * St John --
 * Tekke (Disorganised) --
 * Trebizond --

Mesopotamia

 * Jalayrids --

Arabia

 * Mecca (Fragmented) --
 * Medina (Fragmented) --
 * Oman -- GoldenKhanate (talk)
 * Rasulids -- Willster22 (User talk:Willster22)

Persia & Central Asia

 * Timurid Empire -- DS|The Rainbow Machete

South Asia

 * Ahom --
 * Andhra --
 * Bahmani Sultanate --
 * Bastar --
 * Bengal Sultanate -- Eiplec - ಠ_ಠ (talk)
 * Chutiya --
 * Dhundhar (Disorganized) --
 * Delhi Sultanate (collapsed in 1398 after Timurid invasion and Sack of Delhi) --
 * Garjat (Vassal of Orissa) --
 * Gondwana (Disorganized) --
 * Gujarat --
 * Gwalior (Disorganized) --
 * Jaffna (Disorganized) --
 * Jaisalmer (Disorganized) --
 * Jangladesh (Vassal of Multan) --
 * Jaunpur (Disorganized) --
 * Kangra (Disorganized) --
 * Kathiawar (Disorganized) --
 * Khandesh --
 * Koch --
 * Kozhikode --
 * Ladakh (Disorganized) --
 * Malwa (Disorganized) --
 * Marwar (Disorganized) --
 * Mewar (Disorganized) --
 * Multan (Disorganized) --
 * Nepal (Disorganized) --
 * Orissa --
 * Raigam (Disorganized)a --
 * Venad --
 * Vijaynagar --

East Asia

 * Alliance of the Four Oirats -- Ninjasvswarriors (talk) 14:09, February 2, 2014 (UTC)
 * Chagatai Khanate --
 * Japan (civil war between the daimyos, highly decentralized) **
 * Akamatsu --
 * Amago --
 * Ashikaga (Shogun) -- ShadowKnights1234
 * Date --
 * Hatekeyama --
 * Hosokawa --
 * Imagawa --
 * Isshiki --
 * Kamakura --
 * Kikuchi --
 * Kono --
 * Mogami --
 * Otomo --
 * Ouchi --
 * Satake --
 * Shiba --
 * Shimazu --
 * Shoni --
 * Takeda --
 * Toki --
 * Uesugi --
 * Yamana --
 * Jurchens (Decentralized and partly occupied by China) --
 * Korea (Vassal of China) -- Scandinator (talk)
 * Manchuria --
 * Ming China -- Scandinator (talk)
 * Mongol Khanate --
 * Nivkhs (Amur River/North Sakhalin) -- Commandante Lemming (talk)
 * Qara Del --
 * Ryukyu --
 * Tibet --

South-East Asia

 * Arakan --
 * Ava --
 * Ayutthaya --
 * Champa --
 * Dai Viet --
 * Kedah --
 * Khmer Empire --
 * Lan Xang --
 * Lanna --
 * Pegu --
 * Shan States (Disorganized) --
 * Sri Vijaya --
 * Sukhothai --
 * Taungoo --

Asian Islands

 * Aceh --
 * Aru --
 * Bima --
 * Bone --
 * Brunei --
 * Kutai --
 * Majapahit -- Mr YOLO (talk)
 * Makassar --
 * Minahasa --
 * Negara Dipa --
 * Pagaruyung --
 * Selebar --
 * Siak --
 * Sukadang --
 * Sunda --
 * Tidore --
 * Tondo --
 * Tulang Bawang --

North Africa

 * Banu Sulaym (Fragmented) --
 * Gasfa --
 * Hafsid --
 * Mamluks --
 * Marinids --
 * Zab --
 * Zayyanid --

West Africa

 * Borgu --
 * Ghana --
 * Ife --
 * Igala --
 * Jenne --
 * Kanem Empire --
 * Kwararafa --
 * Mema --
 * Mossi --
 * Nupe --
 * Oyo Empire -- Flag of the Hurian Federation.png Vivaporius: "I don't need a slogan"
 * Salum --
 * Siine --
 * Songhay --
 * Takur --
 * Tuareg --
 * Wolof --
 * Zafunu --

South Africa

 * Great Zimbabwe --

East Africa

 * Alodia --
 * Ethiopia --
 * Ifat --
 * Interlacustrine States (Fragmented) --
 * Makuria (Fragmented) --
 * Swahili City States **
 * Comoros --
 * Dar es Salaam --
 * Kilwa --
 * Malindi --
 * Maputo --
 * Mogadishu --
 * Mombasa --
 * Mozambique --
 * Mtwara --
 * Sofala --
 * Zanzibar --

TBN (Pacific)

 * Otago Maori --

TBN (North America)

 * Iroquois -- Tbguy1992; Talk; Blog
 * Mississippi River Civilisations (Collapsing and Fragmented) -- Hailstormer (talk)

TBN (Central America)

 * Aztecs --
 * Mayans --
 * Zapotecs -- CourageousLife (talk)

TBN (South America)

 * Aymaras (Fragmented) --
 * Chancay --
 * Chimor --
 * Chiribaya --
 * Cuzco -- What is this????Is this a signature??? (talk)
 * Ica-Nazca --
 * Sican --
 * Wanka --

Wall of Shame
This list is for users currently prohibited from participating in the game.
 * User: Arceus The God of Pokemon :- permanent ban for sockpuppetting on the first game.
 * User: Eldwolf : permanent ban for deleting the entire page of the first game and replacing it with profanities.
 * User: Twisty123456789 : permanent ban for sockpuppeting on the second game.

1400
''' The game will start at 00:00 UTC in 1st of February.Do not post turns until then. '''

''' With Europe recovering from the ravages of the Black Death and the Middle East pulling itself apart in war, the Ming Empire stands as the mightiest nation on Earth. Its rule is unsafe though as they are surrounded by hostile Mongol tribes and the remnants of the Yuan Dynasty to the north, Japanese pirates to the east, Timur and resentful tributary states to the west and an unstable South East Asia to the south. Only time will tell if China can maintain its position. '''

''' Japan remains in the middle of a civil war with rival daimyos and the shogun clashing forces across the country. In present-day Korea, King Jeongjong of Joseon abdicates in fear of an attack by his ambitious younger brother, Taejong. Taejong succeeds to the throne. Prince Parameswara establishes the Malacca Sultanate in present-day western Malaysia and northern Sumatra. Child emperor Trần Thiếu Đế is forced to abdicate as ruler of Đại Việt in favour of his maternal grandfather Hồ Quý Ly, ending the Trần Dynasty and starting the Hồ Dynasty. Hồ Quý Ly subsequently changes the country's name to Đại Ngu. '''

''' India remains a battleground as Hindu and Muslim nations clash with each other. The balance of power may fall to either side depending on what happens next. Although with the recent Timurid sack of Delhi and the crippling of the Delhi Sultanate, the balance may tilt to the Hindus. '''

''' Henry of Bolingbroke crowns himself Henry IV after successfully deposing Richard II the year earlier. One cause of Richard's unpopularity had been his reluctance to continue the war in France. Henry is aware of this and plans to resume hostilities, however he is plagued with financial problems and declining health. Henry IV of England quells the Epiphany Rising and executes the Earls of Kent, Huntingdon and Salisbury and the Baron le Despencer for their attempt to have Richard II restored as king. The deposed Richard II of England dies by means unknown in Pontefract Castle, likely from starvation. '''

''' England becomes confronted with repeated raids by pirates that heavily damage trade and the navy. Some advisors begin convincing Henry IV to use state-legalised piracy as a form of warfare in the English Channel. Privateering campaigns to pressure enemies without risking open war also become an option. '''

''' The French respond by using French pirates, under Scottish protection, raiding many English coastal towns. In the meantime Charles VI of France continues descending into madness and an open conflict for power begins between his uncle Philip “the Bold”, Duke of Burgundy, and his brother, Louis, Duke of Orléans. '''

''' The regime change also prompts action from Scotland, which begins raiding northern England. Many begin fearing an all out invasion. In Wales, Owain Glyndŵr is declared Prince of Wales. He begins the most serious and widespread rebellion against English authority in Wales since the conquest of 1282–3. Henry “Hotspur” Percy, son of the Earl of Northumberland, leads English incursions into Scotland, leading to the English occupying Edinburgh in Scotland, but so far failing to capture Edinburgh Castle. '''

''' The princes of the German states vote to depose Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia as Holy Roman Emperor due to his weak leadership and mental illnesses. Frederick, Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg is declared as a rival to Holy Roman Emperor Wenceslaus. However, Frederick is murdered shortly after. Rupert III, Count Palatine of the Rhine, is elected as Holy Roman Emperor. '''

''' The Italian Peninsula is dominated by Naples and Milan while the Papal States sit as a neutral buffer zone. Meanwhile the rich trading nations of Florence, Venice and Genoa are struggling to maintain their footholds in the East Mediterranean Sea against the armies of the Ottoman Turks. With the new threat of Timur, these Christian nations may need to help the enemy they know against the enemy they don’t. '''

''' Timur defeats both the Ottoman Empire and the Mamluk Sultanate of Egypt to capture the city of Damascus in present-day Syria. Much of the city's inhabitants are subsequently massacred by Timur's troops. Timur conquers the Empire of The Black Sheep Turkomans (Qara Qoyunlu), in present-day Armenia, and the Jalayirid Sultanate in present-day Iraq. Qara Qoyunlu ruler Qara Yusuf and Jalayirid Sultan Ahmad flee and take refuge with the Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I. Timur plans to invade the small Christian kingdoms and to expand his empire across Anatolia and to eventually conquer Mongolia and China. '''

''' In Eastern Europe, the standoff between the Ottomans and the Romans at Constantinople continues. Emperor Manuel II continues his journey across Europe, seeking aid against the Ottomans. France already responded, and sent three ships and 1,200 men to defend the city. Meanwhile, in Hungary, King Sigismund's position is unstable, after his defeat in the battle of Nicopolis four years ago, coupled with his shaky claim to the throne.Despite this, he still has designs on the Bohemian throne. '''
 * I forgot to post that part yesterday.--Collie Kaltenbrunner (talk) 07:23, February 1, 2014 (UTC)

''' Across the world, global climate cooling begins the decline of the Mississippian great city of Cahokia and the Anasazi civilization in OTL Colorado. Both great civilizations begin sending scouting parties to determine the extent of the bad harvests. The Kanem Empire and Great Zimbabwe in Africa also begin to decline with Lake Chad, the source of power for the Kanem, shrinking and drying up. '''

Hella mod events.


 * Poland focuses on consolidating the interior of the nation. After the sudden deaths of both Queen Jadwiga and the newborn Princess Elizabeth Bonifacia in late 1399, King Wladyslaw II Jagiello decides that he must remarry to secure the Gediminid reign over Poland, which is extremely shaky at best. A minor rebellion rises up outside of Radom, claiming that Duke Janusz of Mazovia should be King of Poland. Meanwhile, a few nobles of Greater Poland are trying to assert their own claims. To put an end to all arguments over the rightful King of Poland, Wladyslaw II marries Anastasia Griffin, daughter of Bogislaw VII, Duke of Pomerania-Stettin. Anastasia is the heiress to the Duchy of Pomerania-Stettin, and brings a powerful alliance within the Holy Roman Empire to the wedding ceremony. Anastasia is pregnant as the year ends, and Wladyslaw II is hoping to have better luck with this child than he had with Elizabeth Bonaficia. Meanwhile, Wladyslaw contacts Vytautas and arranges a meeting in Kiev to organize the future of the union between Poland and Lithuania. The economy grows as traders carrying Persian rugs begin to invest in producing rugs in Poland itself, notably in the city of Krakow which wields about as much economic power as Prague or Vienna.


 * Mazovia grows more and more powerful as the situation between Poland and Lithuania fails to come to a simple conclusion early in the year. The Duke of Mazovia, Janusz, is widely supported to inherit the Kingdom of Poland should Wladyslaw II be deposed, but Janusz declines and orders his personal army to assist Wladyslaw in the crushing of the minor Radom Rebellion. Meanwhile, in Moldavia the Duke, Iuga, dies as a cripple and is succeeded by his brother, Alexander. Alexander is widely popular with the Moldavians, and reaches out to Wallachia to strengthen his relations with his neighbor to the south. In addition, the Moldavian navy is expanded.
 * Lithuania, still recovering from the defeat at the Battle of the Vorskla River, finds the need to reconcialiate with Poland for good. Vytautas, in a disputed position as either Grand Duke or Viceroy, agrees to be the latter in a conference held in Kiev. The terms of a treaty between Vytautas and Wladyslaw of Poland agree that Vytautas is in fact a viceroy who acts on behalf of Wladyslaw. Vytautas, not wanting to end up without his own dynasty, however, decides to re-marry (his earlier wife having died) to the eldest daughter of the Principality of Ryazan's Prince Oleg II, who is an enemy of the Muscovites, and with whom an alliance is established. Vytautas then works to establish a legitimate government in Trubetsk, where his liege (Wladyslaw) is the next-in-line to the throne (Demetrius I Starshy and Wladyslaw II were brothers). Vytautas actively pursues the opportunity to gain greater glory by peacefully granting a title to his liege. Meanwhile, the split between Orthodox and Catholic churches is being addressed by Bishop Jakum Plichta (of Vilinius) and Bishop Borzyslaw (of Kiev). The proposed idea is to create a separate branch of the Holy Catholic Church based out of Kiev that will perform services in the Orthodox mixture of Greek and Ruthenian. The idea begins to be discussed throughout the Grand Duchy, and permission to investigate is sought from the Holy Father. The Lithuanian economy expands its production of grain, which is then exported into Russia and Poland.


 * Smolensk is quickly recovering from the Lithuanian occupation that established it as a Lithuanian vassal. Smolensk's economy grows with the rebuilding of the cities structures. Wide funding from Prince Roman the Young goes into the reconstruction process, resulting in a beautification project in conjunction with reconstruction. Meanwhile, Chernigov is now under the rule of a vovoide, which is seen as a very broad step by Wladyslaw to reduce all Principalities to Duchy or Vovoideships as opposed to maintaining a number of Princes. Chernigov improves its economy by experimenting with different crops than just grain.
 * First post!!! (More to come)  00:14, February 1, 2014 (UTC)
 * Could you condense that shit?
 * Sure.
 * Aragon expands the military and builds new infrastructure. The King agrees to send 500 or so troops to help the Romans. He states that while the differences between the Catholics and the Orthodoxites are many, he would rather have a Christian brother control the great city as opposed to a Muslim heathen. He also begins the Aragonese influence on Navarra, attempting bring its royal family into his own. However, it seems that he will not be able to produce an heir in time and begins to secure the connections between his power and that of his son Martin of Sicily, so that Martin may succeed him. He also seeks to make connections with the Medici of Florence. The King also sends troops to help stabilize the situation in the islands of Corsica and Sardinia, with the intent of bringing them into the Crown of Aragon.
 * Florence:  The Medici family begins to rise in power starting in the 15th century as a banking family in Florence. As their power grows this year, Florence plans to renovate several key areas of the city. The work on Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, with the dome remaining unfinished as of this year. Florence expands its military and economy as trade deals with Genoa, Milan, and Naples are offered. Relations with the Papacy improve. Meanwhile, Florence works its way into fine diplomatic relations with the House of Este. Relations with the middle-Italian state improve, as do relations with Bologna. Florence's economic deals are not limited to Italy; Florence seeks to trade with the French, the Aragonese, the Austrians, and the Byzantine Empire.
 * Austrian Diplomacy: (Posted for MS) We accept your alliance offer.
 * Castilian Dip: We request Trade with Florence.
 * Neapolitan Diplomacy: Wea accept.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: A letter from the newly elected Venetian doge arrives, please see my main post for an idea of what is going on. (The following is secret and known only to the Venetian Doge and the leader of Florence) The Doge makes an argument that Venice and Florence are in a position to divide influence over the eastern coast, he also states that a formal alliance should be hammered out so that the interests of Venice and Florence are protected.
 * Martin of Aragon agrees to sign trade agreements with the Florentines.
 * Florentine D: While an alliance may be possible in the future, the recent war over Athens between our people is still a very raw memory. Perhaps we should start off with some trade agreements and see where it goes from there.
 * Roman Empire: The Empire continues its standoff with the Ottoman blockade. As the blockade is merely intended to pressure the Romans, the garrison is not too concerned, but they take precautions just the same. The extra 1,200 troops and three ships from France raise morale, and the ships allow more supplies to slip past the blockade, as the Ottomans are not as effective at sea. The Emperor's nephew and former Emperor John VII commands the defence, but unlike his previous episodes of disobedience, remains loyal to the cause. In the south, troops in the Despotate of Morea occupy more border villages and outposts from Achaia, which is largely unable to counter. No major military campaign is planned for the region as the capital remains under siege. Supplies from the region are sent to reinforce the capital, and whatever surplus is sold to try to cover the Empire's costs. The newly occupied towns contribute to the economy, but this makes little difference. Emperor Manuel II continues to tour Europe, asking for help against the Ottomans. He makes stops in Aragon, Castile, France, England, and the HRE. He then approaches his relatives in Montferrat, and ask them for aid. Theodore II of Montferrat agrees to symbolic friendship and limited aid. As of now, Manuel II is still in Italy, asking for troops and ships to help defeat the Ottomans.
 * Castilian Dip: We ask what kind of Assistance the Byzantines are looking for
 * Roman Diplomacy: The Empire is willing to accept any form of aid, but what we are more looking for is troops or ships to help stablize our realm.
 * Castilian Dip: We will send troops when the time comes no worries
 * Austrian Diplomacy: (Posted for MS) We support the Byzantine Empire and will consider sending military support shortly.
 * Neapolitan Diplomacy: We will send ships.
 * Sicillian Dip: We ask what could be achieved by Sicily earning hostillity from the Ottomans.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: Please see my post for Venice's response.
 * Roman Diplomacy: To Sicily, you get the defeat of a powerful Muslim adversary that threatens Europe and have it replaced by a friendly Christian one, and to Venice, we are willing to talk. Meet us on chat or something.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: Talks have ended Venice and the Roman Empire have formed an economic and military alliance along with the recognition of claims on both sides concerning greece.
 * Papal States Dip: We are sending a fleet of ten ships and 15,000 troops, inculding 1000 archers, and 450 cannons. In response, we hope to gain a few vassals.
 * quick thing no way massive numbers like 45000 could be sent dont forget most states could only levy a certain amount of soldiers, only the asian empires could amount that much. Nkbeeching (talk) 23:09, February 1, 2014 (UTC)
 * Hainaut and holland: Holland promises 1500 troops to aid the great crusade to come.
 * Sicily Dip: We will send 15,000 troops consisting of 5,000 archers and 10,000 spearman. On a fleet of 5 ships. We hope to get a share of plunder and if possible land gain.
 * Hamburg: Hamburg begins building new merchant ships to replace its aging fleet.
 * Great Perm: Begin building up military and expanding influence. We begin to expand to uninhabited sections of OTL Russia and begin to reform our economy so people can work and it can flourish.
 * Bayern-Landshut: Bavaria-Landshut expands its military. Heinrich XVI rules at this time, having begin his rule seven years earlier in 1393. In January, Heinrich openly announces his intention to bring the other Bavaria's under his wing, stating that "For too long, the various Bavaria's, such as Munich, Straubing, and even Landshut itself have been warring factions where we foolishly split up land blindly and with no regard." Many at his court take this to be his intent to vassalize the realms of Munich, Straubing, and Ingolstadt. Later in the year, the population slowly expands, still not meeting pre-Black death levels. Heinrich sends his regards to the Roman Emperor and denounces the Ottoman heathens for their continual onslaught on both the Empire and Christendom. Also yay first post! :D 
 * Castille: Henry III in control of the control continues his previous policies of pacifying and restoring the power of King and with Support of the Aristocracy begins displacing influential but relatively bad people. Along with this he begins major cleanup of the kingdoms economy setting up a plan that will put the kingdoms finances in order within 1 or 2 years. The Kingdom itself begins a notable build up in military strength and allows for a vigourous training program on the existing military forces attempting to train them up heavily. Jews are tolerated more, and the heavy sales tax is removed allowing for a growing purchase from people. The Castilian navy is increased as well and loaded up with Troops to go check out the Canary islands for possible conquest by Castile. (The islands were known as early as 1336 and in OTL Castile went only 2 years in the Future) The Crown itself also begins secret influence on the Courts of Navarre. Castile seeing the need for a better influx of income and less rebellious Muslims and Jews establishes a tax that protects the relgious rights of Muslims of Jews as long as they pay this Tax. This however does encourage some new converts who wish to have a few more coins in their pocket as a Christian rather than poorer. The country also begins a more major program of cultural integration creating a series of schools meant to help integrate and get Castilian language and cultural superiority (this is just being finished pretty much the entirety of Castile was Castilian culture at this point) Castile extends trade and foreign relations to Aragon, Portugal, England, France, Byzantium, Genoa, Florence, to expand its trade horizons. Castile also invests heavily into the gold trade running through Granada and seizes this type of trade from Genoa who had previously been running it. The Infrastructure of the country is improved greatly. Castile Sends an Envoy to Venice to improve trade agreements and talk about an alliance.
 * Granada: As a Tributary state (vassal) of Castile, Granada remains strangely alert attempting to maintain its independence. With large amounts of Muslims the people regardless of their vassalage to a Christian state seem relatively calm. Granada in attempt to remain on good terms with Castile begins secretly helping move the gold trade towards Castile and away from Genoa helping to wrestle it from Genoa quite easily. The Granadian military remains relatively alert and begins drills. The Infrastructure of Granada is improved as well. The Granadians see a relatively low influx of Muslims over this period due to new laws enacted in Castile. The Relatively low population of Christians in Granada begins to expand slightly.
 * Just wanted to let you know, Granadin is the official demonym of the people of Granada.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: After the talks Venice and Castile have agreed to a trade agreement and an alliance. The Doge uses this major development to quiet some of his more vocal opponents, especially after Castile seems to be becoming more favoured for certain trading, including much valued gold.
 * Hainaut and Holland: Count Albert of Hainaut,Holland and Zeeland begins organizing the lowlands regions of the Bavarian domain leaving the ruling of Bavaria to his family. The lords of his lowland fiefs apraise this move as shows a greater interest in the region. Albert begins taking an interest in the unique weapons which have began to apear across areas of europe and the middle east (firearms), but has no idea about them in specific. The nobility of his fiefs push for himn to aquire the title of Duke, which is a personal interest to him as well. Albert tries to apeal to the Holy Roman Emperor and due to his connections to deceased Emperor Louis IV (ruled as Holy Roman Emperor from 1328 to 1347). To increase trade and the economy Albert commision an increase in local production and permits more artisens to be trained, meanwhile he takes an interest in the port cities of amsterdam and rotterdam and begins pushing for the creation of a navy, to protect against pirates and foriegn powers. A trade agreement is requested with Denmark and England. Albert also allows the expansion of nights within his estates.
 * Yemen: Emir an-Nasir Ahmad starts to stabilize the realm by first looking into building up the administrative parts of the government. A trade agreement is sent to the Ottoman Empire, Mamluks, and Bengal Sultanate. An alliance is also sent to the Bengal Sultanate. Emir an-Nasir Ahmad looks into the possibility of expanding the navy in the future and setting up an exploration program and exploring further into the East and West. an-Nasir Ahmad marries Tuba bint Umar in the later part of year. The the marriage ceremonies are lavish and extravagant.
 * Bengal Sultanate: Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah, the Sultan of Bengal, accepts both the trade agreement and alliance wholeheartedly.
 * Ottoman Empire: the Sultan is pleased with the deal, and accepts.

Upon discussion most nobles vouch for a conquest of areas around Venice with Padua being the most popular suggestion. Michiel states that "A war against our neighbours would only create more enemies closer to Venice when they already are looking down the edge of blade from the east in the form of the ever expanding Ottoman Empire." Other nobles are outraged at the idea that the war will not be in the peninsula and many state that the Ottomans are important trade partners to Venice. The argument continues for quite some time. Finally Michiel manages to arrange for a war to expand the greek colonies, Epirus being chosen as to eliminate the closest local competitor for greek sovereignty. The majority of the Venetian fleet sets sail laden with mercenaries and noblemen chosen to lead the campaign. Foriegn policy is discussed at some length in this year with Michiel making further political enemies. He announces a policy of establishing a balance of power within the Italian peninsula and avoiding war while encouraging co-operation, he writes to all states on the peninsula, even Genoa, to discuss whether they would be interested in co-operation including diplomatic, commercial and military alliances. His next policy is met with a greater amount of support as he dedicates Venice's renewed support to the Byzantines sending a small fleet of ships (ten to twenty) with other gifts as a sign of good faith however states that full support will require Byzantium to send a diplomatic envoy to discuss the matter in person. Michiel secretly organises for funds to be siphoned off to his families bank and enforces a state preference for loans from it. It grows in power from a small backwater bank to a middle weight within the year however a lack of funds limits it from further growth. Bribes funded by the family bank are used to create a network of agents across the capital as Michiel himself is now restrained to the Doge's Palace. Knowing his person is at threat from an endless list of rivals he strengthens his personal security and works on elevating only his most trusted allies to positions of importance. When Venetian troops arrive in Epirus, they are met with heavy resistance, although this becomes moderate once troops from the vassal states mount a second offensive in the south of the state. Ports along the coast are blockaded and many settlements are looted.
 * Scotland: With French Pirates under our protection we ramp up soldiers on the border between Scotland and England and begin building small outpost and fortifications built in with cannons to further give us the edge in the Highlands, to defend Scotland from further attacks from English forces. We wish to open up trading opportunities in Scandinvaia, Ireland, France, along with the German, and Iberian regions to expand and increase the economy of ours and others. We also wish to open up talks of a mutual alliance treaty between Ulster and Desmond if possible. We also wish to increase relations with France since we are harboring their pirates in Scottish lands.
 * Hainaut and Holland: Holland and Hainaut request a trade agreement with Scotland and also a treaty that would allow both sides to aid one another in fighting off pirates.
 * Scottish Dip: We accept the trade agreement
 * Scottish Dip: We agree to the talks of a triple alliance.
 * Saxony We send aid to the Byzantines.We begin to spread propoganda influencing people to join the military. We ask for an alliance with Kalmar and Hungary and a trade pact with England. We begun To exert influence on Meissen.
 * The Polish Kingdom requests an alliance with the Saxon Principality.
 * Saxony accepts.
 * Austria: The self proclaimed “Archduchy of Austria” (Erzherzogtum Österreich), following Duke Rudolf IV’s creation of the forged Privilegium Maius, begins increasing the legitimacy of its nation to begin rising through the ranks of the Holy Roman Empire. Like many nations in the region, Austria’s farms remain small and fragmented, accounting for little of the overall agricultural production within its respective trade network. Archduke Albert IV expresses desires to expand this and encourages expansion of local fields by requiring that all major cities must keep a small supply of grain in case of attack or famine. To protect the nation Albert IV calls for the creation of a professional army loyal to Austria. Recruits from many of Austria’s provinces begin to be called for training in such an army, employing tactics learned from Swiss mercenaries and leading military techniques. The initial army is mostly taken from the medieval levies of central Austria and kept in reserve. With the Austrian levy replaced recruits begin to specialize in certain schools of fighting, creating divisions of pikemen and other forms of infantry. Individual county armies are left intact, allowing local counts and rulers subordinate to the archduke to continue utilizing levies and other means of protection. In Appensell conflicts over grazing rights, taxes, and tithes cause Abbot Kuno von Stoffeln to contact the Habsburg Count of Toggenburg asking for help. As Toggenburg prepares for war in what would have been a simple conflict, Albert IV steps in seeing that this is an opportunity to test his new military organization. Hoping to strike down the rebelling peasants before they gain greater local support, Albert IV orders the raising of 7,500 Infantry and 3,250 Cavalry, which is to support the 5,500 Infantry and 600 Cavalry in the hands of the local Further Austrian territories. After negotiating a deal with the nearby territory of Sargans, an additional 4,000 men are called into action by the following year. We ask for an alliance with Milan and the Swiss Confederation to bring down any further insurrection along our common border. In an attempt to further increase the Archduchy’s legitimacy and gain power within the Holy Roman Empire in light of the Privilegium Maius, Albert IV proposes an alliance with the Archbishop of Mainz, Trier, Cologne, the Kingdom of Bohemia, the County Palatine of the Rhine, the Duchy of Saxony, and the Margraviate of Brandenburg, all of which serving as prince electors within the empire. As a Catholic nation we ask for an alliance with the Papal States, as well as the nation of Genoa and Naples to further increase our influence in Italy and the reach of the Empire in case of attack. We ask for an alliance with the Byzantines, the successors to the once great Romans. In return we send them aid in their defense against the Ottomans, and ask for a royal marriage. We ask for an alliance and royal marriage with Muscovy, who we believe will be a valuable trade partner in the east. We ask for an alliance and royal marriage with Castille, our Catholic brethren in the Iberian peninsula. We wish to prevent infighting among the Holy Roman Empire and therefore ask for a non aggression pact with Bayern-Landshut and Oldenburg . We also ask for a non aggression pact with the nations of Hungary, the Kalmar Union, France, and Burgundy. (Mscoree asked me to post this for him )
 * You are not going to break rules like that
 * I'm not sure what I did wrong exactly. I was just posting a turn for him, as I have in the past.
 * He is banned. It is not allowed to post for a banned user.
 * Sorry I wasn't aware of that rule. I thought that since I had posted for blocked people in the past it would be fine this time too. Is there no way for him to use the turns he has written? 
 * Can someone please link me to this rule? Not that I dispute it, I just want to read the exact text.
 * This rule has been in place (unofficially or officially) ever since I was banned. I can vouch for it, whether it's in writing or not.
 * Sicily: Sicily sends emissaries to Castille in hopes of forging an alliance meanwhile infrastructure in Siracusa is improved in to make it the centre of sea trade in Sicily. Additionally Sicily sends supplies to the besieged cities of Corsica and Cagliari.
 * Castilian Dip: We Request that Sicily open up trade and we will do the same. Not to mention we will ease into an alliance over the next few years as we work out the particulars.
 * Neapolitan Diplomacy: We offer a strong alliance and trade deal. And perhaps royal boundaries.
 * Sicillian Dip: We will open up trade and we accept the gradual forming of an alliance.
 * Milan: Gian Galeazzo Visconti, duke of Milan, asks for an alliance with the Archduchy of Austria in exchange for their support in elevating the Visconti family to this prestigious position among the people of Milan. Work continues on the Certosa di Pavia, a great monastery and church complex commissioned to the architect Marco Solari, which began work on August 27, 1396. Castle Visconteo, located in the town of Pavia, Lombardy, northern Italy, built by Galeazzo II Visconti in 1360, is expanded. Seat of the Visconti family, the castle is expanded as a strategic position, and enhanced by a newly added garden. Work also continues on the extensive Milan Cathedral. We begin training a proper standing army, utilizing Swiss mercenaries and local recruits. We ask for a similar alliance with the Papal States, Florence, and Switzerland to protect our nation.
 * Florentine D: Accepted
 * ​Papal States Dip: ​a more economic alliance is in order, but we accept.
 * Swiss D: Accept
 * Venetian Diplomacy: A letter from the newly elected Venetian doge arrives, please see my main post for an idea of what is going on. (The following is secret and known only to the Venetian Doge and the leader of Milan) In the letter the Doge speaks of ending the rivalry on the peninsula that has plagued Milan and Venice from developing good relations and talks of establishing a trade agreement as well as further diplomatic agreements, for example: organising the claims between Venice and Milan to ensure they are not in conflict.
 * Muscovy: Leader Vasily I of the Grand Duchy of Moscow begins to exert influence on the nearby states of Tver, Rostov, and Ryazan. In an effort to bring closer the Russian people and the followers of the Russian Orthodox Church, by the vassalization and unity of the land of Russia. Many highly loyal to the Orthodox Church begin to protest to the government, in order to make an intervention against the Sultanate ruled empire of the Ottomans, and to return the Byzantines to its full glory, in order to maintain the power of the Orthodox Church, we ask Novgorod for an alliance and military access to transport vessels in order to allow troops to arrive at Constantinople and assist the Roman Empire. One thousand troops will be sent via ship if Novgorod accepts this offer. Diplomats are sent to other nations such as Great Perm, the Golden Horde, Castile, Byzantine Empire, Genoa, Switzerland, Brandenburg, Milan, Florence, Naples, and Bohemia. The alliance offer and royal marriage offer from Austria is accepted. A royal marriage request is sent to the Byzantine Empire.
 * Novgorod Diplomacy: We accept your alliance and military access offer, and allow you to send troops along with supplies to the Byzantine Empire.
 * The Kingdom of Cuzco begins to build roads in the city. Expansion is planned for next year, and scouts are sent south to aid in the planning. Food is grown in the city to both feed the city and trade with other nations in the region.
 * The Kingdom of England: Troops continue to assualt Edinburgh Castle in hopes of defeating the Scottish there. In Wales, the revolt grows, but the English forces are able to contain the revolution for now. in a move to consolidate his power, King Henry IV revokes parlimentary approval in the King's Council. War in France begins to turn into a lull, with niether side fighting actively. While Henry still distrusts the French, he is careful in his movements. While the war is fairly popular among the people, Richard II, whom was recently put to death, still has many supporters. The Parliment does mention that perhaps suing for peace in the future could buy England the time it needs to rebuild and reunify. The King hosts Manuel II in Eltham Palace, pulling out all the stops for the first Roman Emperor to visit England. The Emperor is assured that England will provide aid in the form of troops and a few ships for the blockade. After some success in the north, Henry Percy leads a large group into Wales to sieze the stockade at Abrystrwyth. Owain Glyndwr's rebel forces regroup from the massive defeat. English ships begin to openly fire on Scottish ships, hoping to break through the lines and lay seige from the coast. The Castilan offer for relations is accepted. Scandinavia is approached with offers of formal relations and a potential alliance. In London, work begins on widening the riverfront access to the Thames River.  To ensure the continued loyalty of his generals, the King increases their salary and creates a pension fund. Henry Percy is held in esteem for his valiant efforts. The English navy is expanded, with newer and larger ships being constructed. The miltary is upgraded, with an emphasis on the longbowmen.
 * Ormond: military is expanded.
 * Westmeath: miltary and industry are expanded.
 * Wales(non rebel): Henry, The Prince of Wales, continues with his troops to fight Glyndwr, though his hold in northern Wales remains firm, but is showing signs of weakness after his loss at Abrystrwyth. The miltary is expanded as well as industry to help fight the rebels and restore English rule.
 * Castilian Dip: We request expanded trade, and foreign relations as well as talks to help ease our tumultuous past aggression against eachother.
 * English Dip: We graciously accept the offer and will be more than willing to hold mutually beneficial talks to smooth over our rough past with one another.
 * Swiss Confederacy: We continue to solidify our union between the cantons and begin to influence the outside cantons of Biel, Ursuren, Weggis, Murten, Payerne, and Tessenburg to join us. The economy is built up, as are defenses. There is debate to move the capital to Bern, but it will be decided later on. We send 5,000 Swiss troops and 2,000 mercenaries to aid the Byzantine Empire. The population is at 986,000. We begin influencing Burgundy.
 * Desmond: The new Earl of Desmond, Thomas FitzGerald falls asleep on December 31, 1399 to a strange dream. In it, he hears a disembodied voice telling him: "You will be the one who will make Desmond great, into a great new modern Ireland, for today marks the start of a great new shining era, the beginning of the modern, for this...is Principia Moderni." The next day, he ponders what happened within the dream. Following that event, the Earl makes up his mind to "try to make Desmond great," despite how vague the message was. First, he decides to set up a permanent capital. The new capital will be in a large modern castle on cliffs on the southwestern coast, to prevent it from attack. On the coast, in a vale will lie the town surrounding it, to provide access to shipbuilding and fishing industries. The plans are made, and the land is prepared. Construction will begin next year. Meanwhile, we build up our towns, spurred on by the low prices of land within them with various craft workshops growing within them. Many poor farmers send their sons to towns to become apprentices and to learn various crafts to supplement their parents' income. A standard currency is planned, but enough metal must be minted to produce coins. Areas are scouted for mining. The military is reformed, with a small core of elite soldiers working full-time, training the levies when needed, and guarding the nobility when not. We send out ambassadors to improve relations with the nearby MacCarthy Mor clan, whom we conquered most of their old Kingdom of Desmond hundreds of years ago. We also send out ambassadors to the northern duchies and earldoms. Small amounts of grain is given to struggling farmers, and in return, we prompt them to train with weapons and join the levy when needed.
 * English D: The Kingdom of England would like to re-establish formal relations with Desmond and perhaps begin to trade.
 * Desmond Diplomacy: We accept your offer, pointing to our background as an ex-English barony.
 * Mecklenburg: The nation of Mecklenburg upgrades military power to help the Holy Roman Empire and its people while defending the catholics of Europe for other threats. We offer the nations of Austria, Köln, Trier, Mainz, Bohemia, Milan, Muscovy, Florence, and Switzerland, Novgorod alliances. To all nations that accept will receive military information and will receive military aid from this nation.
 * Novgorod Diplomacy: We accept your alliance.
 * Muscovy Diplomacy: We accept your request of a military alliance.
 * Oyo Empire: Shortly after the foundation of his kingdom, Alaafiu Oranyan, ruler of Oyo, begins his quest to strengthen the position of his kingdom. The Alaafin notices the fact that he lacks a permanent guard to enforce the laws of the nation, and his army is reliant on poorly-trained warriors conscripted for a seasonal period, a major flaw in the empire's military system. Consulting his high chiefs, Oranyan founds by imperial decree a permanent standing army that is to be know from here-on as the Ikorira, or "the Hatred", due to the army's role in battling hated enemies of Oyo. The force is to consist of 45,000 warriors, out of the 500,000 able-bodied men within the empire. These men are divided into 37,000 warriors armed with spear and bow, and 8,000 riders who will serve as the tip of the military force. The force will reside in four quarters that are to flank Oyo-Ile from the north, east, south, and west, with 9,000 infantry and 1,750 cavalry in each, along with their families, and they shall remain ready at all times in the event they are required to fight for the Alaafiu. The other 1,000 warriors and 1,000 cavalry are to be trained as an imperial bodyguard for the Alaafiu known as the Eso, who shall learn how to fight on foot and horseback so as to serve as the elite praetorian guard for the empire. Also, impressed with the arms of the neighboring Benin Empire, Oyo adopts their armor and weaponry for the Ikorira and the Eso. Additional reforms are planned by the Alaafiu, though the need to secure the empire from external threats must come first. In the meantime, Oranyan orders the expansion of the nation to the west by 10,000 km along the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, seeking to seize the resources of the Akan region. Appealing to their fellow Yoruba in the region, the settlers successfully establish treaties with their fellow brethren easing tensions as the empire expands into the surrounding region. This is further aided by the sharing of a common language, which increases trust and trade. Needing to equip these men, numerous industries are developed within the capital city so as to aid in supporting the army. These industries employ thousands of men and women in works that also support the local population. When swords, helmets and shields are not needed immediately, the armories and foundries turn to producing civilian tools, which aid in the advancement of expanding the agricultural and mining system of Oyo.
 * Bengal Sultanate: The Sultan, Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah, continues his rule of consolidation, mainly through the increase of military drills for the nations army, focusing on the mobility of his calvary, elephants, and infantry, while also attempting to retain the same amount of defensive and static strength of his infantry. He also continues his policy of cordial formal relations with his neighbors by sending envoys and gifts to Jaunpur, China, Mecca, and Medina. He also offers to finance the construction of two Madrasas in Mecca. Coins depicting the name of Ghiyasuddin Azam Shah in both Hindu and Bengali on one side, and an elephant on the other in reference to  the Hindu culture present in Bengal. The Bengali poet, Shah Muhammad Sagir, begins his work, the Yousuf Jolekha. At the same time, another Bengali poet named Krittibas Ojha begins to work on his translation of the great Indian epic Ramayana to Bengali. It is during this period of consolidation began by the Sultan Azam Shah, that his son Saifuddin Hamza Shah, only a teenage at this point, begins to grow jaded of his fathers peace.
 * Novgorod: The merchant republic of Novgorod accepts the alliances with Mecklenburg, and Muscovy. We ask Köln for an alliance. We accept to send troops, ships, and supplies to the the Byzantine Empire. We ask Muscovy for a Royal Marriage. We open up trade to our neighboring Russian states.
 * Köln Diplomacy: We accept.
 * Kingdom of Naples: King Ladislaus I combat small revolts of the nobles in the different regions of the country. By mid-year the King's power is strong and can start the first reforms. First realize that the people need food, and for that matter the fields begin to be rotated, making the stationary harvests, more effective. Secondly the sea should be protected, and for that matter the construction and improvement of shipyard is planned, and production of new boats to combat the pirates of the Mediterranean. Territorial defense is organized based on border forts, and recruitment of soldiers that are attached to existing groups of mercenaries, payment and maintenance of this new army will be shared by the king and the nobles. The King tries to improve its position on the Italian peninsula, and sent their ambassadors to different countries to solidify the friendship as well as commercial and military alliances in Milan, Genoa, Florence, Venice, Savoy, and specially Ferrara and Mantua triying to make them vassals. In the case of the Papal States and its internal problems, the King sent a special emissary to personally communicate with the Pope of Neapolitan origin, and provide all the necessary assistance, also officially presented as a defender of Rome and the Holy Church . In the case of Sicily, it is proposed a strong alliance and sent presents to the King, with the best wishes of peace of Ladislaus I. Later this year the King intends to occupy the throne of Hungary as rightful heir, and began the search for supporters against Sigismund. Seeing the Byzantine Empire and its Emperor are looking for help, and the danger of the Ottoman forces, a fleet of warships sent to block ports and capture enemy ships. The king Ladislaus I is looking for a wife.
 * Sicillian Dip: We kindly regard your wish to be in an alliance and kindly your presents but we will require stronger incentives to do so. We only consider the presents as mitigation of any possible hostilities or outbreaks of war.
 * Portuguese diplomacy: In regards to the royal marriage offer, Portugal offers Beatriz de Avis, 18 years old, illegitimate daughter of the king, in order to start better diplomatic relations.
 * We are looking for a legitimate daugther of any royal family, but we can start friendly diplomatic relations.
 * Venetian Dip: Venice kindly accepts the renewal of commercial and military alliances with Naples, and states that as part of the Doges plans Venice hopes that Naples and Venice along with other Italian states can co-operate towards greater aims. Venice also sends Naples a letter from the doge, the following is only known to the Doge and the leader of Naples In the letter the Doge recognises Naples position as a powerful organ in making the peninsula a greater place in the world and bringing order to the lands and seas of the Mediterranean. He asks that considering their new alliance, Naples and Venice should sign a treaty formalising their claims so that they are not in conflict.
 * Venice Diplomacy: Naples and Venice finish their talks having agreed to an alliance while also discussing further co-operation and agreeing claims.
 * Florentine D: The alliances with Naples are accepted.
 * France: England is asked for peace, as the war that has torn apart France is not doing so in england, while this Louis of Orleans is aclaimed by the people of France the king to lead France out of the long standing war. while this Philip's forces get influence in Picardie loyal territories. Military and navy are built up and Orleans begins to be influenced. Same as Burgundy. While this a small party of sailors with their families flee to the Lanzarote (In the canary islands) Using the name of Saint marie d'africa, the sailors manage to set the small city in the region.  while this the spanish are asked to allow the presence of the sailors in the canary islands.
 * Angouleme: Military and navy are built up.
 * Zapotec: One of the greatest city-states of the Zapotec is Danibaan (Monte Alban), ruled by Emperor Tlaco. Danibaan is the largest state in the region, and as such exerts great influence over the surrounding states. Using this influence, Emperor Tlaco creates the Zapotec Alliance, signed by the surrounding city-states. The agreement states that the city-states will support each other in wars and diplomatic manners. By pooling their influences, they begin to incorperate other states into the alliance, either by diplomacy or by force.
 * Portugal begins a notable build up in military strength and allows for a vigourous training program on the existing military forces attempting to train them up heavily.Meanwhile, the administration continues to be reformed, and agricultire and commerce are encouraged.Meanwhile, João I continues giving grants of land to some nobles to secure their loyalty.Meanwhile, Philippa of Lancaster gives birth to a boy, which is called João.
 * Majapahit: To strenghten his power the king Wikramawardhana builds a personal army consisting of an elite group of 100 warriors. He sends his halfbrother-in-law, the legal crown prince, in the jungle of OTL Timor to built a new village and to start a vassal state. By doing so, he secures his claims on the trone and expands the Majapahit Empire. He also starts to build a large fleet of trade ships and also transport ships and some escorts to expand trade and to expand the expansion possibilities. He also sends a diplomatic mission to the Sunda Empire (Mod respond please). Influence begins on Bima and we also begin spreading Hinduism to the nations in Sulawesi.
 * Papal States:  ​ Reorganization begins across the Papal States. The Military is expanded due to growing tensions in Italy. We propose a military alliance with Naples, The Kalmar Union, The Byzantine empire, and England. Our Vassals are more influenced, and more pro-Rome nobles are put in place, the old ones being "removed." We hire privateers to disrupt Cyprus shipping. Research begins into cannons that can load faster. Taxes begins on our Vassals. We deploy a fleet of Ships to support the Byzantine empire against the Ottoman empire. Plans are laid to invade the Ottoman, and copies are sent to all states in Italy, England, and The Kalmar Union.
 * King Wladyslaw II Jagiello of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania relays a proposal from Bishop Jakum Plichta (of Vilinius) and Bishop Borzyslaw (of Kiev) to create a new division of the Church in order to preach in Greek and Ruthenian as is practiced in the Orthodox church in order to convert Orthodox Christians to a Catholic-esque form that will recognize Papal Primacy. Jakum Plichta also asks that Vilnius (a diocese) be raised to an archdiocese and that the archbishop also be considered the Primate of Lithuania.
 * We agree.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: A letter from the newly elected Venetian doge arrives (The following is known only to the Venetian Doge and the Pope) The Doge honours the Pope for his wise governance and states that he too recognises the threat that the Ottomans pose. The Doge would like to propose an alliance with the Papal states on both economic and military terms. He finishes with a comment on the good support sent to the Byzantines by the papal states.
 * ​Alliance accepted.
 * ​Bologna: A New tax system is introduced. The economy is expanded. Influence begins to annex the Vassal.
 * ​Perugia:  Influence begins with the intention if annexing the Vassal soon. Military is expanded.
 * ​Ancona: A small military expansion begins, with the goal being to insure that Ancona becomes a military power. Influence begins to annex the Vassal.
 * ​Montefeltro: ​ ​A New ruler takes over, Bentio Francis. His Pro-Rome policy sees him given more power then the other Vassals, but he agrees to allow Montefletro to eventually be Annexed. The economy is expanded.
 * Venetian Republic: After the death of the last doge a new doge is elected, Michiel Roscol, a nobleman whose family arose from obscurity. Michiel faces heavy opposition and finds that many noble families are not willing to even participate in proper governance with him as doge. Even his allies are cautious with their support. Keen to establish that he is a competent ruler and to utilise some populism he concludes that a war would be the best way to cement his control.
 * Castilian Dip: Castile Sends an Envoy to Venice to improve trade agreements and talk about an alliance.
 * Ulster: Ulster sends an offer of allegiance to Desmond, and Ulster Merchants begin trading with the continent, and hear rumours of some form of explosive powder, although they are not of much interest to the merchants, they greatly interest the noblemen when they hear of them. Ulster experiences a baby boom. Relations are improved with our neighbours, although they remain tense enough to warrant the construction of a new capital city, with a Castle at the centre.
 * ooookay, I'd like to call out Alien Space Bats and Implausogasms already . First of all, calling out the original for their abazzilion reforms and somehow turning Desmond into an economic powerhouse that can just 'decide to build a castle', although this particular issue is subject to whether they decide the castle takes two years to build or a more realistic 10 to 20 years plus (and that's for a small 'modern' castle, Ireland isn't rich nor advanced you know).

'''I'd also like to highlight that somehow the Irish became more advanced than many other places in south eastern and central europe, interesting also that a Hungarian pedler should 'happen' to end up in Ireland (as we know a place of great travel and somewhere all Hungarian pedlers go as part of their training to become magicians) and more interesting that this most likely poor and unfortunate soul somehow knows the combination to make gunpowder... WHY IT MUST BE A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE! praise jesus! rant over, seriously mods have a look at Desmond's post and this one.'''

'''And now, what possible problem would I have with Ulster suddenly stealing the Desmond 'fireworks' which almost certainly wouldn't be 'in-market' by now especially if Desmond was governed by any reasonable authority figure. Further why in the hell are they trying to make flame throwers? these Irish kings seem to all have crystal balls whereby they can look into the future and see things then decide to copy them! If only Venice had one, (sadness at Venice not having magic, maybe we can steal the magic from Ireland!) why we'd build a million arsenals and be done with the industrial revolution! Also this weapon will not work, I shouldn't have to explain that gunpowder will just go POOF with this weapon not RAORS!DARGON FLAMTROWER! gunPOWDER is not a substitute for the liquid fuels that just about all flamethrowers in history have used.'''

'''and a further note, please people remember almost all technological advancements are built upon old technology and are done to fill a need normally, as in to help humans adapt not to create magic at the snap of a kings fingers so he can have elite dargon warriors, also remember that many advanced technologies were state secrets and further that the creation of gunpowder is one of the biggest most important flukes in history. And no you can't create dargons with flukes, flukes 99.999% of the time do not advance the world rather they either annoy, burn, main, wound or kill the 'inventor'.'''

Thank you for listening and goodnight. The First Grand Council is called to order in July, and with the approval of the Crown, agrees to increase the navies of the Realm, by ordering 20 War Galleys built each year. In addition, Alliance and Trade treaties are sent to the Netherlands and England. In Savoy the economy grows, and the kingdom prospers. The Count of Provence accepts the proposal, and in the last months of the year, a marriage between the Count and celebrates local noble, and pregnancy is announced. Wanted trade agreements with countries Italians. The process of converting Piombino in our vassal starts.
 * At whatever mod posted this, Desmond can "decide" to build a castle, I'm not just stating that it'll be done in one year. I never, anywhere said that the castle will be done in several years. At the gunpowder, yes, I admit that was  a bit A LOT of a long shot, so I'll take that away. I was not planning to use it for military purposes for 50 years, however. Thank you for pointing this out, and if you are going to call implausibility, just cross out my post! Thank you --Mr. Desmond Player.
 * PS -- And yes, I can just "decide" to build a castle. If I did not "decide", who would? Those Alien Space Bats?
 * The future? You realise that the ancient greeks invented those types of flamethrowers like... 2000 years ago? It doesn't take a genius to make them. Hollow out a tree trunk, or stick some planks together with nails, and get some bellows - available at any good blacksmiths, and a fite at the end. Pour burny stuff in, force down bellows, and voila. Instant Flamethrower. I could make one in my garden, if I didn't mind getting arrested for burning the neighbours fence and dog. Local Mafia Boss (Talk) (Blog)
 * You do realise that the ancient greeks didn't use gunpowder and further that knowledge of greek flamethrowers has been lost to everyone except probably the byzantines who keep the secret under lock and key. Further you do realise that you are not from the medieval ages and that strangely enough most people in the medieval ages don't even know flamethrowers exist and if they saw one (even a primitive one) would probably think it's magic. It's all very well you might know these things but keep in mind that the medieval ages really don't know what you do. - Kunarian
 * @Local Greek fire is not gunpower, and at this point is only in the hands of the Romans. Nor is it simply a matter of hollowing out a tree trunk. Greek fire contraptions were large metal devices with multiple parts, making it pretty advanced for its time (or at least that's what modern historians and engineers theorize). 
 * Here's a hypothetical reconstruction of a Greek Fire mechanism: Greek_Fire.jpg
 * From the books on the subject, I was led to believe that to begin with, they were simply hollowed out tree trunks, and from my own knowledge, a weapon of designs such as that would be successful, although the 'barrel' would require frequent replacements. Anyway, if Bfox can't get Gunpowder yet, it is a moot point. Local Mafia Boss (Talk) (Blog)
 * The question is not really whether the design is possible, it is. The questions are: would gunpowder work in place of liquids? which it wouldn't; would Irish people even think to build something from Greece which they don't even have any idea exists? no they wouldn't. All in all, it's a highly unrealistic action. Kunarian TALK 15:29, February 1, 2014 (UTC)
 * It would work in the place of liquid. When powders are blown by high pressure, they will work well in this role. And it is not something from Greece, it is something really quite logical to make. Local Mafia Boss (Talk) (Blog)
 * You make a fuss when we get Gunpowder, but Scotland have cannons...
 * What the buck was that all about?--Collie Kaltenbrunner (talk) 16:10, February 1, 2014 (UTC)
 * Several mods and the original poster in question agreed that making flamethrowers in 1400's Ireland might be a long shot, but Local disagrees. 
 * And how did flamethrowers start to be thrown around liberally in the conversation?the original post has nothing to do with flamethrowers.
 * It's less of a fuss about gunpowder, more of a fuss about fireworks and getting the recipe for gunpowder from a peddler. Further Scotland is a minor power at this point of time, not like the modern scotland, medieval scotland was a major rival to England at this time and an important French ally. Scotland can also easily afford cannons, imported or otherwise. Ireland really isn't on the same level as Scotland or England.
 * Jesus Christ... Bfox said he had Gunpowder. I saif I got gunpowder from Bfox, and made this weapon. Basically a flamethrower, and the science is sound. You blow powder, at high pressure, over a flaming torch. The powder ignites, and shoots out in a sheet of fire. This is simple. However, as Bfox didn't actually get gunpowder, I have removed this. Local Mafia Boss (Talk) (Blog)
 * That science is a legitimate amount of BS... As someone who shoots shotguns and blackpower rifles for sport i know how gundpowder works intimately... and shooting in a flamethrowing like way is in no way possible... Gunpowder pops and sparks immediately on contact with fire and is not a long drawn out flame. It creates alot of Smoke, and the fire lasts for less than half a second unless specially treated on a match. The first recorded flamethrower outside of greek fire used Petrol not Gunpowder. Throwing this out there even if you got gunpowder your designs for a flame thrower dont work. -Feud
 * I agree with Feudal. Also part of the issue is it's a bit ASB and random that they would take this newly introduced technology and make a flamethrower. 
 * Japan: The emperor sends 100,000 troops out to stop the enemy from reaching the the palace. Kogon Ogimachi announces that his wife is pregnant with a baby and they will have an heir to the nation. Our military troops are being trained just incase war happens. A company of troops goes on an expedition to take over territories for the empire.
 * Mississippian River Civilisations: The Mississippian River Civilisations are in crisis, and are facing a potential collapse in their way of life; a fact not lost on the general populaces and ruling elites of the various settlements and communities. The scouts sent to the north at the start of the year from Cahokia return, and state that settlements on and near the coast of the Great Lakes in the far north of the Mississippian civilisation have continued to produce bountiful harvests, which have been bolstered with fish and crustaceans caught from the Great Lakes. The scouts sent to the south and east return soon after, and report terrible harvests throughout the South Appalachian Mississippian and Plaquemine, and the abandoning of settlements to move north to escape this. Within two weeks of this report back, the first of these refugees arrive into the Middle Mississippian, and spread out among the various settlements, being absorbed into the local communities. This is expected to continue if the situation does not change in the south and east of the continent. Many of these refugees end up in Cahokia, and its population goes through a revival for the first time in over two centuries, increasing by over a third before the year is complete. This places the population at around 24,000 Cahokians. Whilst this increases the magnitude of the problems being faced by Cahokia and the Middle Mississippian by increasing the use of current food stores and materials to build new housing, these refugees provide the workforce to cultivate both in greater numbers. This effectively nullifies their negative impact. Cahokia’s status as the most important location for the Mississippian people is further cemented as a result of this population influx. In an attempt to combat the bad harvests from the start of the year, new crops are planted along the confluence zone of the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois rivers in the area surrounding Cahokia. These crops are mainly made up of maize, and irrigation techniques tried and tested by the Cahokians previously are utilized to improve the chances of a good harvest. The well-established trade network between the Mississippian people allows valuable food stocks to be transported down from the Great Lake settlements down to Cahokia and the Middle Mississippian to keep food stores full. It is Cahokia's control of the manufacture and distribution of chert hoes, a valuable tool for Mississippian farmers, which allows them to trade for such large amounts of food stock. This in turn has the effect of increasing the food output of the Mississippian farmers located near the Great Lakes, which in turn leads to more food for trade with Cahokia and the Middle Mississippian. This trading for food stocks, and the planting of larger crop fields, begin to combat the long standing issue of keeping a steady supply of food in Cahokia and the Middle Mississippian in general. Waste disposal continues to be a serious issue, which is making Cahokia an unhealthy place, and leading to a high death rate. Waste materials begin to be burned in a location far away from Cahokia, in an attempt to dispose of it as a result. Due to the population influx into the Middle Mississippian, the area begins to be seen as the core of the Mississippian lands. Expansion takes place along the banks of OTL Lake Michigan.
 * Köln: The exuberant electorate nation of Köln begins upgrading its military capabilities to serve the Holy Roman Empire and the German people, and to defend Catholic peoples of Europe from outside invasion. As such we pledge support for the Byzantine Empire, which has come under direct siege from the heathen Ottoman Empire hordes. Friedrich III von Saarwerden, Elector of Cologne refuses to attend the electorate conference in Frankfurt, which incorrectly elected Frederick I, Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg without our knowledge. In an effort to strengthen ties with other influential German states and their trade partners, we offer the nations of Austria, Mecklenburg, Novgorod, Trier, Mainz, Bohemia, Muscovy, Florence, Milan, and Switzerland alliances.
 * Mecklenburg Diplomacy: We accept your alliance
 * Provence: Is given a new impetus to the economy and especially trade, taking advantage of the port of Marseille. Similarly more mercenaries to protect the Royals territories are recruited. The Count of Provence offers the Count of Savoy marriage union of their descendants as a gesture of peace and permanent unit. Also alliance and trade deals are offer to France, Aragon, Castille and Austria. To this end the Count Provence starts looking wife to get a male heir.
 * Anjou: Follows the model of Provence, and improve existing military elements.
 * In Scandinavia Queen Regent Margaret continues strenous efforts to pull the nations closer together, with a Council in February of all of the Nobles of the three Kingdoms. The result is the First Crown Charter, which states the following:
 * The Kingdoms of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, and all their holdings, shall be ruled by a single Crown;
 * Said Crown shall rule from the City of Copenhagen;
 * No Noble from any Kingdom shall be sufferred to lose land or life;
 * All Nobles shall send delegates to a Grand Council, which shall meet Annually, to check the power of the Crown;
 * All Kingdoms shall combine their carmies and navies into one;
 * All Kingdoms shall agree to unite their forces against any enemy, internal or external, that threatens this Union;
 * All Kingdoms shall agree to follow the Laws set by the Crown and by the Grand Council;
 * Upon the death or abdication of the Monarch, the Grand Council shall elect a new Monarch from amongest themselves;
 * The Grand Council may impeach the Monarch in extreme cases, and shall require a three quarters majority for this act;
 * The Crown Charter shall be renegotiated and reestablished every 25 years;
 * Thus Established, the United Norse Crown.
 * Poland requests and alliance with the United Norse Crown. The current heir to Poland and Lithuania,  Dymitr Korybut is offerred to serve as a King Consort to Her Royal Majesty Margaret.
 * Hainaut and Holland Diplomacy: Albert accepts the offers
 * England Dip: we accept all offers.
 * Grand Empire of the Timurid Dynasty: Reveling in the glory of his recent victories over the Malmuks and the Ottomans, the Emperor Timur has a revelation, that without a single designtaed heir, his empire will tumble into chaos. He designates his grandson, Amjad, as his heir. He also issues the Procamation of 1400, designating that the oldest male heir will take the throne upon the death of his incumbent. The Timur makes all others who would have claim to the throne swear loyalty to Amjad, and those who dont are exeuted, most notably among those executed are two of his other grandsons, and his two sons. It pains the Emperor to do it, but he states it is neccesary to keep the empire together. The land formerly composing the Black Sheep Turkomans and the Jalayirids Sultanate are officially annexed into the Empire, as is Syria and the land around Damascus. Still, with the massive victories over the Malmuks as of late, and the fact that they possess nothing of interest to the Timurids, an olive branch is offered to the Malmuks, with them recognizing the annexation of Syria in exhange for peace, The military is built up while roads begin to be contructed to connect the empire and its new provinces, most notably Syria, which gives the Timur a port on the Medditeranean Sea. An allaince targeted at the Ottomans is offered to the Byzantines. Construction of a new fleet begins in the new port, to be named the Fleet of Damascus, while another fleet begins construction in the Arabian Gulf. Expansion begins into the unclaimed Arabian pennsinula. Gunpoder begins to be produced for use in cannons, which are deemed essential for any modern army by several advisors. A baby boom also begins, as returning soldiers wish to rejoice there wives.
 * The Grand Master of the Teutonic Order Konrad von Jungingen begins the process of reorganizing the Ordensstaat, with the intent of transforming it into a Prussian Empire.
 * the Jochid Ulus' vizier, Ïdegay Khan, declares the convokation of a new Kurultai, the Ulus' legislature, in order to address the finding and execution of the former Khan of the Horde, Tokhtamysh. Besides the traditional Tatar and Bashkir chieftains and the Mongol warriors, he invites chieftains from Permic, Volga-Finnic, Chuvash, Ugric, Caucasian and other sorts of tribes; the reason behind this is to bribe them with power into betraying Tokhtamysh's whereabouts. This works, as a Mansi chieftain declares he's been hiding out in northern Siberia. Tokhtamysh leaves with a host of Tatar warriors, with the triple purpose of 1) finding and killing Tokhtamysh, 2) Converting the Mansi and Samoyeds to Islam and 3) expand northwards to block all colonisation attempts by the Russians and Permians. The northwestern corner of the Ulus expands northwards by 500 kilometres as fortresses are built in the area. In the Volga-Kama area,  the economy increases as Ïdegay decrees the rebuilding of the cities of Bolghar and Old and New Saray. In the steppe, the economy also improves as some chieftains declare that the prime farming area will no longer be given to the growth of livestock but rather to agriculture. The Jochid Ulus welcomes the Muscovite diplomats and begins to prepare to demand tribute to Great Perm, Ryazan and Rostov, as is customary. In the far west, some chieftains and warriors begin to develop an interest on gunpowder, as the rapidly-arming European gunpowder seems to be working at fielding larger armies.
 * The Hungarian King Sigismund returns from Bohemia in the Holy Roman Empire after hearing of nobles plotting against him. However, as soon as he enters the nation, he is soon arrested and imprisoned by the nobles, who are angry at him for failing in various wars. Sigismund manages to gain his release after 6 months in prison, but soon realises things need to be made into order. He faces the choice of going to some pointless war against his half-brother or trying to work on the problems within Hungary and curtail the power of the nobles. He wisely decides to do the latter and begins reorganise lands to put them in better control. However, he recieves news that nobles have plotted against him and have sent the offer to make Ladislaus I of Naples the king of Hungary. Sigismund quickly enlists a small army and with the nobles loyal to him, he takes the land of the nobles against him by force and has them executed. As a reward for supporting him, Sigismund distributes lands among nobles loyal to him. This helps to increase his popularity and prove he can win battles. Sigismund, however, readies a small number of troops to be on guard at all times in case Ladislaus I comes aknocking. Sigismund also hears that they may be some trouble in Slavonia (Garay) and thus sends the order to execute a handful of powerful noble families to greaten his control over the vassal. Meanwhile, Sigismund begins to fund greater expansion of the merchant ships and begins to look to increase trade to help the nation fill its coffers with more gold. He also begins to organise his army into more efficient structure and hopes this will help against a possible invasion by Ladislaus I or if he decides to attack and imprison his half-brother Wenceslaus IV - after all, his wife is quite attractive and could give him the heir he so badly desires. Therefore, he secretly seeks talks with the states and the Holy Roman Emperor to help him again Wenceslaus. Mods respond. Sigismund also realises he is in desperate need of alliances and soon looks to re-affirm his alliance with Byzantine. He also looks for an alliance with the Kalmar Union, hearing of their power in the north. He also looks to Iberia to see if he can make allies there. Sigismund also begins the construction of quite a few castles to the north as they are wary of Poland.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: Recognising the power the King of Hungary is re-establishing in his nation and seeing the position of Hungary as one of both a dangerous nearby power and possible grand ally, the Doge decides to write a letter to them. (The following is secret to everyone bar the King of Hungary and the Doge of Venice) The Doge addresses the King in a humble manner and offers an economic and military alliance should he guarantee that he and his vassals will release all barriers to trade for Venetian merchants and vessels. The Doge further asks if they may meet with a Hungarian delegation to formalise the Hungarian claims so they do not conflict with Venice's claims and more-over to work out more areas for co-operation.
 * The Hungarian King Sigismund knows how important this offer is. He writes back, stating (same as above, secret to everyone but the parties involved) The King would be honoured to have an economic and military alliance with Venice and would be most interested in meeting the Doge to formalise proper relations and sorting out the claims of each respective nation to ensure peace can be held and support for both nations can be established in these turbulent times.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: The Doge of Venice writes back (same again secret) The Doge is glad to be graced with such an alliance. And with the alliances formalised and claims discussed, the Doge further invites the King to meet the Doge in his Palace for further discussions offering a fleet of 100 ships to ensure the Kings safe travel to the capital.
 * The Hungarian King writes back (secret again) He would be delighted to travel in a large fleet as that and asks the fleet to dock at January.
 * Garay: Sigismund, late in the year, executes many prominant nobles by leading a small army to defeat them and seize their lands. He quickly redistributes the lands to loyal Slavonian and Hungarian nobles and leaves the state in their control. The nobles quickly begin to implement the destruction of many old, castles which where either weak or made of wood and begin to build one or two major castles made of stone. This will help to improve the infrastructure. They also begin to redistribute the forces of the former nobles and organise them into their own, training them with their own troops to make them a part of their force. This helps ensure the control over all trops belonging to the former nobles.
 * Split: In disarray, Sigismund has not decided how to free the vassal of the chaos. Most probably, he will look to lead another small army and sort out the vassal in the following year. For how, he begins to send troops to support nobles who have declared their loyality toward Sigismund. These nobles use the troops to great effect against those opposing them and help to win many battles. However, the situation remains fluid and many castles hold out. As such, blockades of these castles are set up to starve them out or force them to counter-attack.
 * Croatia: In Croatia, Sigismund quickly allocates funds for the expansion of the merchant fleet as well as the expansion of the small naval defense fleet. He quickly sends ducats to fund this rapid expansion of the navy and he hopes to be ready for Ladislaus when he comes. He also begins to give Croatian nobles slightly more flexibility, helping to increase his popularity with the nobles. He uses this increase in popularity to begin the redistribution in foodstuff as well as the constription of a few thousand men to help form a small force which he will use later onward.
 * Trier: Begins expanding military to form a formidable fighting force. We fortify our border with France in case of attack. The alliance offer from Austria is accepted, and we too offer alliances to all other electors, Switzerland, Milan, and Florence to preserve the empire.
 * Ottoman Empire: The Turks are outraged at the loss of Ottoman influence in Qara Qoyunlu; the Sultan is however pleased to take the exiled monarchs into his Empire. He plans to one day continue hostilities with the Timurs to gain the lands back for the Empire. The Ottomans also request an alliance with the Mamluks (who is without a player, hmm :/) in case of another attack by the Timurs. Meanwhile, many soldiers continue to surround the city of Constantinople, but are ordered not to attack unless attacked first. The Sultan does not see much need in conquering the city, but will fight the Romans if he must. He also (secretly) slowly moves troops stationed in the Balkans towards the border of Athens, in case of an invasion by Venice. Speaking of the Balkans, with the loss of influence in the Middle East, the Sultan wants to ensure the influence that his Empire has on other nations will not be lost again (in Serbia or Wallachia, for example). With the trade agreement with Yemen, the Sultan also plans to improve the mighty empire’s naval forces during his reign to improve the economy as well as the navy.
 * Poland asks the Ottoman Empire to respect the Sovereignty of Wallachia, and King Wladyslaw II Jagiello declares than any infringement on the rights of Wallachia will be treated as in infringement on Poland itself. Wallachia is given our word of protection.
 * Wallachia: Mircea I of Wallachia, sensing a chance to increase the wealth of his nation offers a trade deal to Poland-Lithuania, and by extension Moldavia. Merchants are offered a lower tariff rate if they export wallachian made goods, and if they import raw materials, this move will hopeful encourage increased production in the region. Mircea I of Wallachia maintains hopes of strengthening Wallachia economically in the coming year, as Hungary, and the Ottomans seem occupied with their own affairs.
 * Moldavia, Poland, and Lithuania all accept a trade deal with Wallachia. A number of Polish-speaking educators and diplomates travel to Wallachia to instruct the Royal Court in the Polish language, as well as push the agendas of the Jagiellon States. An alliance is offered.
 * Wallchia thanks the Poles for thier support, and accepts the alliance.
 * Bohemia: Sensing widespread opposition among the Holy Roman Empire against Wenceslaus IV, the Bohemian military launches a coup against the king. Lord John of Liechtenstein, with his retinue of knights, comes to the aid of Wenceslaus from the Mikulov demesne. The leader of the military is crowned king in Prague, as fighting continues to oust supporters of Wenceslaus. We ask for aid from German states, the prince electors, and the Archduchy of Austria. Consequently the new army of Bohemia is expanded to conclude the war. We ask for alliances with Moravia to strengthen ties with our neighbor, the Archduchy of Austria and the prince electors, to strengthen our position in the Holy Roman Empire, the nation of Muscovy to the east, who we believe to be an influential trade partner, and the nations of Milan and Florence, to establish ourselves in the courts of Italy. We send aid to the Byzantine Empire to support their efforts against the heathen Ottoman Empire. Lastly we ask for a non aggression pact with Poland and Hungary.
 * Nivkhs: A Nivkh cheiftain's son, whose name is lost to history, has just returned from a trade mission to China, one of the first of it's kind - as the Chinese traders usually come to the Nivkh people ratehr than vice versa. We say that the man's true name is lost to history not becasue he is not known, but because we know him only through legends as Mang Hangut - meaning "The Strong Old Man". As he must have been quite young in 1400, is is highly unlikely that he was known as as strong old man at this time, but as history will show, he indeed would become one of the strongest of old men - and the father of the Nivkh nation as we know it. Much of what we know of him comes through legend - there are tales of him fighting great dragons and freeing entire Nivkh cities from bondage through mind control. We must, for the sake of history, discard these tales. Indeed, we must discard the notion of Nivkh cities, as archaeology clearly shows that no such thing existed at the time - merely collections of villiages and very cold people who scarcely resembled what today we would call a civilized Nivkh. However, we do know that Mang Hangut existed and that he was indeed a great teacher, he is mentioned in many writings from the period, mostly old Chinese-language scrolls in the bowels of the great monasteries. And we know that in the year 1400, he returned from China full of awe at what he had seen, and determined that his people must become more like the great civilization to his South. We know nothing of what was said, but we do now from Chinese records in Beijing that he soon returned to the great city, with a mandate from his father to seek Buddhist monks willing to construct a monastery in their villiage at the mouth of the Amur River Delta - a place we now call the city of Ñeƞdaqo. (CHINESE RESPONSE REQUIRED)
 * Brandenburg: After the nation’s defeat with Pommerania last year, it begins a process of decentralization. Jobst of Moravia, however, launches a program to increase nationalism and centralize the nation. This displeases the nobles, however, who enjoy the autonomy. Jobst tries to convince the nobles in the capital of Berlin that there needs to be a strong central government in order for the nation to be successful. The speech doesn’t go as planned, however, and some nobles and peasants rebel while others remain loyal to Jobst. Eventually the rebellion was put down and the Loyalists were rewarded by becoming nobles while the Rebels were punished by being stripped of their titles and put into exile/prison. With this victory centralization has begun in the nation and the military is also upgraded and we send 1,000 troops to aid the Byzantines in their war against the Ottomans.
 * Luxembourg: With civil war looming in France, many fear the worst in the nation. As such, the military is upgraded and is stationed on the border of us and France and trade is discontinued for the time being and we instead trade with other German states and with each other. With the military build up between Brandenburg and Luxembourg we focus on the economy and trade with Bohemia and the rest of the HRE in order to support their militaries. As a result of the trading we upgrade the economy.

1401
'''The Samogitians rebel against the Teutonic Knights and burn two newly built castles, declaring their allegiance to the traditional Lithuanian gods. Teutonic soldiers are taken captives to exchange them for Samogitian hostages taken into Prussia. '''

''' A call for reform of the church begins under the Lollards, followers of John Wycliffe, a prominent theologian who was dismissed from the University of Oxford in 1381 for criticism of the Church. The Archbishop of Canterbury begins pressuring King Henry IV of England to pass the De heretico comburendo Act, which would outlaw the Lollards as heretics. '''

''' Emperor Hồ Quý Ly of Dai Ngu passes the throne to his son, Hồ Hán Thương. A civil war breaks out in the Majapahit Empire in present-day Indonesia. (Will last four years without intervention) '''

''' Delhi begins to return to a somewhat normal state, and culture begins to rise again while crop yields are more than expected, allowing for a surplus. '''

''' In Appensell conflicts over grazing rights, taxes, and tithes cause Abbot Kuno von Stoffeln to contact the Habsburg Count of Toggenburg asking for help. As Toggenburg prepares for war in what would have been a simple conflict, Albert IV steps in seeing that this is an opportunity to test his new military organization. '''

''' Dissatisfied with Wenceslaus's performance of his duties as King of Germany, the electors meet to consider alternatives. Frederick of Brunswick-Lüneburg is elected in opposition to Wenceslaus. However, the three spiritual electors of Mainz, Trier, and Cologne, and Wenceslaus himself do not concur with the election, and is declared legally invalid, as supported by only a minority of the electors. Frederick is assassinated two weeks later, on 5 June 1400. '''

''' A second election takes place on 21 August in Rhens-am-Rhein, electing Rupert, Elector Palatine and King of Germany. The Elector of Saxony, the Elector of Brandenburg, and the King of Bohemia are not present. '''

I had to remove the two events that used to be here due to the fact that they already happened last year and were completely redundant.--Collie Kaltenbrunner (talk) 06:35, February 2, 2014 (UTC)

I believe they're there to reaffirm things and summarize, considering very little of that was specifically stated throughout various turns.

Still, this is 1401.It makes no sense to have a mod event stating things that happened last year.The best way would be to incorporate this mod post into the 1400 post.--Collie Kaltenbrunner (talk) 20:07, February 2, 2014 (UTC)

'''First of all they could not be posted last turn since the people in question are NPC's, and ms, the writer, is banned. Secondly this summarizes last turns events and states things that happen in 1401 based on player's turns in 1400. '''

''' With Wenceslaus deposed in Bohemia the other electors open diplomatic relations with Bohemia. The nations of Mainz and the County Palatine of the Rhine accept their respective diplomatic offers. '''

''' Mirroring the expansion of Cahokia in the Great Lakes, economic refugees in the OTL Southeast United States flood into “Moundville” settlement in OTL Alabama. ''' After the King leaves a lot of conflict reappears but Michiel is confident he has swayed some people. They argue that due to the Doge's reckless warmongering, their once trade partner, the Ottomans now send armies to their colonies borders, Michiel addressed this by saying that he sees no way forwards with the Ottomans unless they turn from the west back east. In this argument for the first time, many of his allies vocally support him. After the success of his foreign policy, he has been able to rule with more power, as many nobles are falling into line and preferring instead to try and profit from the Republic's current success. Michiel continues to support his family's bank, but many nobles are beginning to notice it rising and are looking for corruption they can expose, so the Doge loosens his grip. Michiel further sends letters to various nations, looking further out now, asking for a variety of diplomatic arrangements. Finally late in the year the war in Epirus continues with the Venetians taking several major ports in the nation completely into their custody and the capturing of the King's daughter whereby one of the Doge's major allies is given the hand of the King's daughter in marriage. The King of Epirus is furious and flees to the Capital of the Ottoman Empire for safety. Towards the end of the year, a spy of Michiel reports that on his travels to the north he has discovered a plot to invade Venice along with other Italian city states. Michiel asks who would dare risk such an unachievable ploy, the spy responds with "The Austrians to the north are at the head of the conspiracy, but it is the Milanese who plan to take Italy for their own with the Austrians support at that." Outraged by this plot Michiel writes to various rulers about the conspiracy being organized by the villainous Milanese and Austrians.
 * Aragon expands the military and builds new infrastructure. Influence of Navarre, Corsica, and Sardinia continues. Martin continues to make arrangements for his son, the King of Sicily, to take his place.
 * Hamburg: Hamburg decides to do an experiment. Small swivel cannons are attached to the sides of a ship to test their effectiveness against pirate raids. It is determined that they are effective enough to mount a number on every vessel. Hamburg requests trade with England and Novgorod.
 * Novgorod Diplomacy: We accept your trade request.
 * Bayern-Landshut: Bavaria-Landshut expands its military. Starting in March, Heinrich XVI begins influencing his neighbor country of Bayern-Munchen. Many take this as an early period of vassalization as Heinrich XVI continually petitions the lords of Munchen for tribute and manpower. In other news, the population continues to rise. Heinrich and his council continue to allow the training of new troops. Heinrich XVI sends a petition for Alliance to the nations of Saxony, Holland-Hainaut, France, and the Roman Empire. Heinrich further sends a request for royal marriage to Holland-Hainaut, asking for a wife to wed Heinrich XVI, to further the dynastic bond between the two countries. Heinrich also petitions for a trade agreement with England and Austria. In a sign of goodwill, Heinrich sends 2,000 troops to Constantinople, to aid with the pious, Christian Emperor.
 * ​H-H Diplomacy: Albert can not agree to an alliance while Heinrich has intentions of uniting Bavaria but offers a treaty of friendship on the grounds that the Wittelbach lands be left alone.
 * B-L Diplomacy: Heinrich is humbled and accepts the treaty of friendship but is puzzled at Albert's insistence that Wittelsbach lands be left alone, considering that Heinrich himself is a Wittelsbach and any involvement with the other Bavarias is legitimate and all within the house of Wittelsbach
 * Pardon me i didnt realize same house need to read up more scratch the end of my dip action. Nkbeeching (talk) 10:53, February 2, 2014 (UTC)
 * Saxon D: We agree to an alliance
 * Castille: Henry III in control of the control continues his previous policies of pacifying and restoring the power of King and with Support of the Aristocracy begins displacing influential but relatively bad people. Along with this he begins major cleanup of the kingdoms economy setting up a plan that will put the kingdoms finances in order within 1 or 2 years, it is nearly completed. The Kingdom itself begins a notable build up in military strength and allows for a vigorous training program on the existing military forces attempting to train them up heavily. Jews are tolerated more, and the heavy sales tax is removed allowing for a growing purchase from people. The Castilians embark on the Conquest of the Canaries taking the islands for Spain and helping secure the extremely small french settlement. the land is opened to settlers and left secured by soldiers. The Crown itself also continues secret influence on the Courts of Navarre managing to get a larger influence over the small kingdom and many of its nobles being promised Castilian nobility if they allow Castile to gain heavier influence. Castile seeing the need for a better influx of income and less rebellious Muslims and Jews establishes a tax that protects the religious rights of Muslims of Jews as long as they pay this Tax. This however does encourage some new converts who wish to have a few more coins in their pocket as a Christian rather than poorer. The country also begins a more major program of cultural integration creating a series of schools meant to help integrate and get Castilian language and cultural superiority (this is just being finished pretty much the entirety of Castile was Castilian culture at this point) Castile extends trade and foreign relations to Aragon, Portugal, England, France, Byzantium, Genoa, Florence, to expand its trade horizons. Castile also invests heavily into the gold trade running through Granada and seizes this type of trade from Genoa who had previously been running it. The Infrastructure of the country is improved greatly with better roads being implemented. The Castilian navy also begins to show issues of running into Moroccan pirates and other ships near Gibraltar and begins sending reports to the nobility and the king asking for their possible intervention. The King of Castile requests that Venetia help in the event of a conflict with Morocco and more than likely Tunisia and Algiers. Castile officially sends 5000 troops to the Romans.
 * Granada: As a Tributary state (vassal) of Castile, Granada remains strangely alert attempting to maintain its independence. With large amounts of Muslims the people regardless of their vassalage to a Christian state seem relatively calm. Granada in attempt to remain on good terms with Castile begins secretly helping move the gold trade towards Castile and away from Genoa helping to wrestle it from Genoa quite easily. The Granadian military remains relatively alert and begins drills. The Infrastructure of Granada is improved as well. The Granadians see a relatively low influx of Muslims over this period due to new laws enacted in Castile. The Relatively low population of Christians in Granada begins to expand more.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: Venice announces that it will provide full support to the King should conflict with Morocco and other African nations arise. As a sign of good faith a small detachment of ships are sent for the King to use as he will.
 * Aragon accepts.
 * Hainaut-Holland: Albert continues to include the leaders of his estates in the running of all the lands under his tutelage, allowing for greater ties with the local nobility. Albert continues to petition for the acension of Hainaut to the status of a Duchy. Albert authorizes levying laws to be passed which will permit in times of war greater mobilization of the peasents, and also hires a group of artisans and blacksmiths to replicate the cannons which are becoming increasingly seen throughout Europe. Albert's son Wilhelm of Holland fathers two sisters named Jaqueline and Katerina, Albert offers their hands upon coming of age in 1416 to both England and Denmark to strengthen ties with both states. Investment into trade and a formal navy continues with Rotterdam seeing an increase in ship crafting. 1500 troops are dispatched to Byzamtuim as promised to help protect the stronghold of Christendom in Eastern Europe against the Muslim hordes. Dutch merchants from Amsterdam become increasingly active in ports of northern and western Europe with the trade agreements with England, Scotland, and Scandinavia. As Albert grows weaker in health his son Wilhelm starts to take a more active role in the running of the estates, and begins looking towards Brabant for expansion and starts to exert influence over the state that lays between his family's lands. Wallon blacksmiths receive extra funding from the feudal lords to increase production (at the time wallon blacksmiths were amongst the most praised in Europe.)
 * UNC Diplomacy: We accept the offer of Jaqueline, and Queen Regent Margaret offers the heir to the Norse throne- Olaf, who will be in his 20s.
 * H-H Diplomacy: Albert and Wilhelm agree.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: Seeing both the way that Hainaut-Holland and Venice are aligned together in fighting the Ottoman hordes and that both are influential in trade, the Doge writes to the state in hopes of diplomatic arrangements. (secret to all except the leaders of H-H and Venice) The Doge notes that both Hainaut-Holland and Venice are trade powers in the north and south respectively, in the interest of maintaining both their influence and power in trade, he offers an economic and military alliance. He also points out that an alliance would work well in furthering H-H's plans (if any) in the Mediterranean, as the Venetians are a supreme force there.
 * H-H: Albert agrees but states he has no interests in the med sea at the time. 
 * Oyo Empire: Alaafin Oranyan continues his series of reforms to ensure the prosperity of his empire. However, the need for trade with other powers has arisen. An expedition is sent north to deal with the Mali Empire, with the hopes of establishing a trade pact with the larger nation. Tales of Malian gold and the great trade routes that extend across the near-proverbial Sahara Desert, have long been commonplace stories within Oyo. Now the time has come to confront the mighty nation face-to-face, and Alaafin Oranyan undertakes the expedition with himself as the leader of the caravan. In his place, his son Akintunde has been placed on the throne as regent until his return. Until his father's return, Akintunde focuses on expanding the nation's fleet of war canoes so as to increase Oyo's position as a regional power, as well as encouraging trade to the Oyo's only safe port city of Lagos in the south. A group of war canoes is sent south to explore the region and seek out potential trade partners for Oyo, bringing with them salt, gold, and precious gems as tokens of Oyo's growing wealth and affluence in the area. Oyo's continues to expand its borders to the west, settling lands and encouraging fellow Yoruba to join the empire for the benefit of all. The relative safety provided from the hostile Akin to the far west, and the looming danger of the Benin Empire to the southeast, encourage many to join willingly if not out of fear of their immediate neighbors.
 * Papal States: a emissary is sent to Lithuania to discuss the rebellion. Military aid is offered. We hire privateers to disrupt the Ottoman Empires shipping. 15000 troops are sent with a fleet of 10 Ships to aid the Roman Empire. Lollards is declared a heretical cult, and we discourage such teachings. Influence continues on our Vassals.The Pope expresses his desire to explore Africa, and begins funding an exploration of the continent. Military and economic expansion begins, and more training methods are put in order. Avinigo is declared a sinners den, and regarded as such. We offer an Alliance with Genoa and Naples.
 * Bologna: Trade with Florence is cut off, and negotiations cease. Papal control is tightened, and economic expansion continues, with Bologna becoming the most economical sound of all our Vassals.
 * Ancona: A more Pro-Rome policy is put in place, and more Papal control is enacted. Military build up begins. To ensure that it remains a Vassal of the Papal States, the main trading partner is made Rome.
 * Perugia: A more Pro-Rome policy becomes law, and massive military build up is made. Trade is increased with Rome.
 * Montefeltro: A tax is introduced to help boost the economy. Montefeltro is the one Vassal not to have Papal control tightened. Military expansion begins.
 * Florence: The Medici family continues to rise in power as renovations in Florence itself continue. The military and economy improve as work on Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore continues. The Castillian deals are accepted. Florence continues to negotiate with the House of Este, hoping to enter an alliance and eventually vassalize the nation. An alliance with the Papal States is offered.
 * Papal States Dip: We turn down the alliance, but will accept if they cease trying to Vassalize Bologna, our own Vassal.
 * Whoops, forgot it was yours. Disregard my vassalization attempt lol
 * Venetian Diplomacy: The Doge would like to formally request a trade deal with the Republic of Florence. He also asks as part of this that the Medici and Roscol family come to an agreement whereby the Medeci keep their banking out of Venetian territories and vassals and the Roscol bank will do the same with Florence's territories and vassals.
 * Florentine D: We accept
 * Lithuania declares war on Muscovy after recognizing the issues of having another powerful Grand Duchy in Eastern Europe. Vytautas seeks support from the Scandinavian states and the Golden Horde, a former enemy, in order to subdue the threat that is emerging to the northeast of Lithuania. The Lithuanian army, led by Vytautas, marches towards the city of Moskva, but first leads a detour into Trubetsk. The pretenders, mostly minor local nobles, are all subdued or surrender without a fight to Vytautas' forces. Trubetsk is therefore closer to recognizing Wladyslaw II Jagiello as Grand Duke. Vytautas' army then attacks small towns and settlements north of Moskva, before turning south to lay seige to the city. Vytautas' wife, Stanislawa, gives birth to a son, who is also named Vytautas. Oleg II of Ryazan declares that his heir is to be Vytautas the Younger, with Vytautas the Elder to act as Regent. Meanwhile, Chernigov and Smolensk send military aid to fight off the Muscovites.
 * The Pskov Veche sees this as a perfect opportunity to get rid of Muscovy influence imposed three years ago using trickery...(as I could find absolutely 0 accounts of moskva invading and conquering pskov, but rather simply the prince said he was namestnik...and the veche went along with it)...Pskov Veche declares war on muscovy and sends troops and whatnot...
 * Poland declares war on Muscovy. Meanwhile, a son is born to Anastasia Griffin and Wladyslaw II Jagiello, named Henryk. Henryk is proclaimed to be the Heir of Poland and Lithuania, and second-in-line to the Duchy of Pomerania-Stettin. The city of Krakow, and many other cities in Poland, are abuzz with excitement, and the nobles are now rededicated to the Gedimindid dynasty, as led by Wladyslaw II. The war increases the need for grain, so farmers investigate now methods of growing crops and begins to widely adopt the idea of crop rotation. Talks of improving and building a university to study begin to be more and more common. The army makes a detour into Riga on its way to liverating Pskov. The Rigan peasants who are revolting are mostly put down, and a special detachment is sent to secure the capital city. The Bishop is very greatful, and begins to be influence by Poland. Mazovia sends aid to fight Muscovy, and Moldavia sends some troops to fight Muscovy but also repositions its fleet near Constantinople to protect the Byzantines.
 * Yemen: Emir an-Nasir Ahmad is pleased that both Bengal and the Ottomans have accepted his offers. He continues to try and stabilize the realm in any ways that he can. An expedition is sent north to explore Mecca for information in the case of a war. The Emir tries to increase the numbers of traders in Yemen by implementing new policies. The navy is assigned to patrol the Gulf of Aden to keep it clear of pirates and keep trade safe. Tuba bint Umar, the first wife of Emir an-Nasir Ahmad, bears a child. The boy is named al-Ahmad Mohammed. The Emir hopes that an heir to the realm will help stabilize the nation.
 * Roman Empire: The Emperor Manuel II continues to tour Europe, pleading his case. He thanks all the nations that have so far sent forces to ensure the safety of the city. Back at the capital, the influx of troops have made the city much more secure, and this is used to bolster the city's defenses. The ships that are lent to the Empire increase the naval security of the city, and now supplies can flow into the city practically unhindered. In the south, trade links with the Venetians are increased to make sure the Roman forces are well enough equipped. More may come.
 * Castilian Diplomacy: We have officially sent 5000 troops and will run interference to any muslim powers in our region. This will be done to prevent their forces and supplies and possible naval power from helping the ottomans.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: With the Doge's guidance many Nobles are encouraged to trade heavily with Constantinople, particularly in arms, in addition Venice also sells a few ships to the Roman Empire at a tenth of their worth to help build up their naval forces (this is nothing, Venice at this time had a fleet of 3000 ships or so).
 * Roman Diplomacy: The Empire thanks the Castilians for their support. The Empire happily manages to buy ten ships from Venice after the Emperor sells some tiltes in Europe, and this act doubles the navy's size.
 * The Kingdom of England: Troops continue to assualt Edinburgh Castle in hopes of defeating the Scottish there. In Wales, the revolt grows, but the English forces are able to contain the revolution for now. in a move to consolidate his power, King Henry IV revokes parliamentary approval in the King's Council. War in France begins to turn into a lull, with neither side fighting actively. While Henry still distrusts the French, he is careful in his movements. While the war is fairly popular among the people, Richard II, whom was recently put to death, still has many supporters. The Parliament does mention that perhaps suing for peace in the future could buy England the time it needs to rebuild and reunify. Henry Percy continues to fight the Welsh rebels, it is apparent that Glwdwyr is more defended than previously thought, though Percy remains hopeful that the Weslh can be defeated in the coming years. England accepts the offer of alliance from Holland. In London, work begins on widening the riverfront access to the Thames River.  To ensure the continued loyalty of his generals, the King increases their salary and creates a pension fund. Henry Percy is held in esteem for his valiant efforts. The English navy is expanded, with newer and larger ships being constructed. The miltary is upgraded, with an emphasis on the long-bowmen. The King heeds the words of the Archbishop of Canterbury and issues the De Heretico Comburendo Act, branding the Lollards has heretic traitors. The son of Henry the IV, Henry of Monmouth, takes up arms in the king's army and begins to fight against the Welsh forces of Glwdwyr. More May Come.
 * ​'​'​Ormond: military is expanded.
 * Westmeath: miltary and industry are expanded.
 * Wales(non rebel): Henry, The Prince of Wales, continues with his troops to fight Glyndwr, though his hold in northern Wales remains firm, but is showing signs of weakness after his loss at Abrystrwyth. The miltary is expanded as well as industry to help fight the rebels and restore English rule. The Prince of England, Henry of Monmouth arrives with a detachment of Royal Calvary and longbowmen.
 * Castilian Dip: We look to reconcile old issues and officially offer an alliance to England due to our mutual interest in keeping the Roman empire alive. We also request expanded trade.
 * By the way the map is drawn Endinburgh is within English borders so all you're doing is attacking your own castle...
 * really now? How curious considering how the mod event last year stated it was Scottish owned. So therefor I am not attacking my own castle. It is following exactly what happened in otl.
 * Desmond Diplomacy: We ask England to engage in a nonaggression pact with us, to confront our fears that wars in Britain will not carry over into Ireland and vice versa.
 * Wallachia: Merchants are continually encouraged to export finished goods, and import raw materials. The trade routes opened with Poland-Lithuania and Moldavia begin to see their first profits, and more is expected to come. The boyars are also encouraged to loan money to free peasants looking to start their own enterprises, however this remains extremely rare and is almost solely found in the trade towns near Transylvania, and at the mouth of the Danube. Also Mircea pledges to march an army south into Bulgaria, and perhaps father if the city of Constantinople falls under attack by the Ottomans. The Polish-Lithuanian invasion of Muscovy worries the voivode, but prompts no action.
 * Poland's King, Wladyslaw II Jagiello sends an envoy to the Wallachian voivode, ensuring him that the Polish attitude towards Wallachia is nothing but friendly, and that we will uphold any and all alliance and protection responsibilities that the voivode should call on us for.
 * The Samogitan rebels install Grand Master Konrad von Jungingen as Konrad I of the Empire of Prussia in exchange for the loosening of the nation's theocratic restrictions. While the devout Konrad is displeased with the increased rights of pagan heretics, he is pleased that he was able to use the Samogitans to achieve his goals of a unified Prussian Empire. He begins plans to construct a proper national capital at Marienburg.
 * Teuton-Polish_Agreement.pnganian Diplomacy: Viceroy Vytautas Gediminid recognizes Konrad as King of Prussia, intentionally not referring to Konrad as an Emperor due to longstanding tensions between Lithuania and the former Terra Mariana. Vytautas seeks ratification of the Danzig Treaty for Livonia,which has the following provisions:
 * The Prussian state shall cede a small region of Semigallia focused on the city of Ignalina to the Lithuanian state. This region, as shown in the map that is to accompany this treaty, is to span from Pskov to approxiamately halfway to the end of Lithuania's northern border.
 * The Prussian state shall be granted all privileges to acquiring Courland and Osel-Wiek.
 * The Lithuanian state shall be granted all privileges to acquiring Riga nad Dorpat.
 * These monopoly on conquest or diplomatic association shall end 25 years after the first territory of the four of them has been acquired by either the Prussian or Lithuanian state.
 * Prussia agrees to sign Poland's treaty.
 * Nivkhia: Around the year fourteen hundred and one, reckoned on the Roman calendar - which of course was totally unfamiliar to the Nivkhs of the day but widely used today - the man who would later become known as Mang Hangut did indeed return to his village with ten Buddhist monks. These monks commenced builiding a monastery, as is the obvious customs of monks in new places. The leader of these monks is known to have been named Xin Qiang Peng, and many things are said of him as well. It is highly doubtful, for instance, that "Master Xin" once miraculously healed a plague which struck the barley harvest - especially seeing as barley was not cultivated by the early Nivkhs. Nor frankly was anything of much substance cultivated by these early Nivkhs, who archaeology has shown to subsist largely by hunting and fishing. However, what is known - or at least what is widely believed - is that Xin did become close to both Mang Hangut and his father the chief, who both became devoted Buddhists. And of course we know that he built the beginnings of the Great Monatery of Ñeƞdaqo, which stands to this day. Of course, the monastery was anything but great at the time - as anyone who has visited the inner sanctum of the modern building can attest, the remaining parts of the old monastery are merely lavishly painted logs covered in Buddhist artwork, with the occasional carving rendered in reindeer antler. Spartan as it was, it must have been the most fantastical thing that the early Nivkhs had seen, as history attests that the conversion of the society to Buddhism was indeed swift. It also appears during this time that even the early Nivkhs were expanding their influence, and their borders grew by 1000 modern square kilometers down the coast of the Nivkh Island (OTL Sakhalin).
 * Grand Empire of the Timurid Dynasty: The Empire continues to build roads throughout the nation, and fortification of the new provinces continues, namely Syria and Iraq. The Timur calls the first Council of Nobles, with a noble from each province meeting with the Emperor in the first convening of the body. It gives him news of what is going on in the provinces, and what needs to be done to keep the people happy there. He orders several new construction projects to give the people fresh water and orders the importation of massive amounts of food in case famine ever occurs in the nation. A Royal Marriage is offered to the Golden Horde, with the Timurs granddaughter's hand being offered. Expansion continues into unclaimed Arabia by 2,000 km^2, while the military is built up and testing of new cannons continues. An alliance offer is sent to Delhi and Byzantines. An embargo is issued against Ottomans, and the Damascus Fleet continues to be built with new warships even sporting cannon, although not many of them. The Timur declares that the Advisory Council must meet annually to keep him up to date on the provinces wants and needs, as well as brewing trouble. Amjad begins making plans for his reign, such as beginning plans for a new palace in Tehran. Timur orders research into gunpowder weaponry, hoping to keep ahead of Europeans in the field. Cannons begin to heavily produced. Stocking up of food reserves continues, and the baby boom continues, with immigration begining to rise as well.The Timur begins organizing plans for a secret invasion of the Ottoman Empire to work with the Byzantines and take down the old enemy.
 * Swiss Confederacy: We continue to influence surrounding cantons and Burgundy. The army builds another 2 cannons. We work on agricultural improvements and improving crop yields. We form the Alpine Federation with the surrounding cantons as an economic and political alliance outside of the HRE. Talks of unifying under the Swiss flag with Canton semi autonomy is discussed seriously. The Venetian troop buildup is seen with concern and we send 100 troops to the border to secure it. A wall is put on high priority, using the alps as a natural barrier.
 * By the way there is no border between Venice and Switzerland and no troop buildup in Venice
 * Venetian Diplomacy: The Doge asks why the Swiss are concerned with the actions of Venice, as the Swiss have never been anything but good company for the Venetians, providing many good mercenaries for them and their allies.
 * Ïdegay Khan of the Jochid Ulus declares that he has found and slain Tokhtamysh Khan and his horde "in the cold forests of frigid Nenetsia". His body is presented to Shadi Beg Khan, the young Khan of the Golden Horde. Ïdegay accepts the royal marriage offer of the Timurids, and she marries Shadi Beg. In return, Shadi Beg agrees to marry one of his sisters off to Ïdegay's son Manguday, so that Manguday's sons might claim Genghisid ancestry, rather than only Manghit ancestry. While officially Tokhtamysh is dead and the Kurultay has served his purpose, Ïdegay declares it will remain, finding it a useful counterweight to any possible aspirations of Shadi Beg. The economy of the nation in the Volga-Kama area increases as rebuilding of Bolghar, New Saray and Old Saray continues. Interest into gunpowder "hand gonnes" increases, and gunpowder research begins. When the invasion of Muscovy reaches the Khan's ears, he decides to finally destroy that thorn in the Horde's side, and Ïdegay himself leads troops to burn the Muscovites' city and take their land.
 * Timurid Diplomacy: In accordance with our alliance, the Timur sends some troops to aid in the invasion of Muscovy, and wishes the Khans armies luck, as well as condolences on the old monarchs deaths.
 * Novgorod: We open up trade with Hamburg. Merchants are encouraged to trade with the neighboring Russian states and Hamburg. Novgorod starts developing a military. We also are looking into the idea of having a strong navy. Existing ships are refitted, and foundations are laid for a possible new fleet. We start building ports in the north. Citizens are concerned for our ally, Muscovy. We send supplies to Muscovy for the hardships that their nation is enduring. We ask for military access with the nation of Pskov, an ally of Muscovy. We ask the Teutonic Order for an alliance.
 * Great Perm: We continue military buildup and upgrading infrastructure. We continue to reform the economy and expand to uninhabited lands. SECRET: We prepare our forces for war and decide to join the Coalition to liberate Muscovy and have allowed the members of the Coalition to join us in liberating it.
 * France: Military and navy are built up the colony in Lanzarote continues thriving and trading with the castillian canary islands. more to come. the nation continues vassalizing burgundy and Orleans to join the nation under one estable government, while this the english are plead to end the wars in order to pacify western europe, Castille is offered and alliance as naples and switzerland. some troops are sent to the Romans to keep them from falling to the ottomans.
 * Angouleme: Military and economy are built up.
 * Saluzzo: Military and economy are built up.
 * Scottish Diplomacy: We wish to increase relations with France with two seperate agendas one being a trade agreement between the two, the other being an alliance between the two as we share a common foe in England and since we are also keeping your pirates unde protection
 * Bayern-Landshut Dip: Heinrich XVI of Landshut kindly petitions the true Charles of France for an alliance and a trade agreement.
 * France D: We agree and so does charles of france, Scottish desire is fullfilled and alliance is accepted but we do mot specify that we are going to be unable to join wars in the near future.
 * Kingdom of Naples: King Ladislaus I continue the reforms. Continue the construction and improvement of shipyard, and production of new boats to combat the pirates of the Mediterranean. Territorial defense continue to be built based on border forts. The vasalization of Ferrara and Mantua continues.The king continue sending help to the Papal States. The king continue sending ships to the Bizantine Empire to block ports and capture enemy ships. The king Ladislaus I continue looking for a wife.
 * Mecklenburg: We accept the alliances offered to us from nearby German states and influential trade partners. The military begins to be expanded and we secretly support the liberation of Muscovy. We immediately start to move land troops on our border with Pomerania for the purpose of strengthening our border. Increase ship production.
 * Scotland: As we watch the English attack the once Scottish capital of Endinburgh and watch as they continuely attack their own castle if to harass the once free Scottish people or to intimidate us. We continue to build up a substantial army to stand up to England's as we believe our drive to survive as a nation is greater their kings great agenda to unite the island. We continue to also build up the Highland's defenses to be hopefully be the greatest protection any nation has seen. We continue with the paving of the roadways of Scotland. We also begin constructing a navy that will able to hold a good defensive stance against the English. We wish to speak to the Kalmar Union for talks of a trade agreement and continue talks with the small Irish kingdoms.
 * maybe before you post something high and arrogant you should review last years mod event. The event stated I captured Edinburgh, but not the castle which is still Scottish. So in effect you're giving me your castle because you aren't defending it. 
 * County of Oldenburg: (My sincerest apologies for missing the first day, I was in the air). Count Christian VI returns to Oldenburg from the election of Rupert as King of Germany. Upon his return, he is greeted with reports of the lawlessness across the border in Frisia. Distressed by the potential for the lawlessness to spill over into the border, Christian VI asks the new King for permission to invade Frisia and return it to order (and perhaps add some of it to Oldenburg for safe keeping). In preparation, Christian builds up the army. As well as all this, an emissary is sent to Hamburg to try and establish better relations.
 * Trier: We ask for an alliance with the nation of Oldenburg to promote unity among the states of Germany. As a side note: You weren't at the conference in Rhens-am-Rhein. The only people invited were Johann II von Nassau (Mainz), Werner von Falkenstein (Trier), Friedrich III von Saarwerden (Cologne), and Rupert III (Palantine).
 * H-H diplomacy: Albert requests that Oldenburg refrain from conquering a country of the lowlands, Albert agrees to an intervention to restore order to the region and offers to help but requests that not a single piece of firesland be absorbed into another state.
 * Zapotec: Emperor Tlaco expands Danibaan's influence in the surrounding city-states by way of the Zapotec Alliance. Roadways connecting cities in the alliance help merchants and soldiers move more freely between them. In the coastal regions under Danibaan's influence, some boats are created. Tlaco orders more be manufactured to bring in goods from the sea. Daibaan expands into the surrounding city-states.
 * Bengal Sultanate: The rule of consolidation by the Sultan continues, much to the disappointment of his son who seeks to inherit his fathers throne. The continuing disorganization between most Islamic states in India, as well as the growing threat of belligerant Hindu powers, the military begins to become more integrated and organized, allowing Muslim, Hindu's and Buddhists to all fight within the same armies, prompting more tolerance and acceptance in the diverse Bengali Sultanate. Envoys and gifts are sent to both Yemen and the Delhi Sultanate. More coins are created for the Bengali nation to encourage more expansive trading among the merchant classes, both within the country and abroad. The writing of the Yusuf Jolekha and the translation of the Indian epic Ramayana to Bengali continue. Trade influence begins to be exerted on Orissa and Rakhine by lowering the taxes on merchants who trade specifically in one of those two nations. Other merchants begin to travel further down and around the Indian Subcontinent and Arabian Peninsula, searching for more trade ports to sell their goods that include various silks and spices.
 * Portugal begins a notable build up in military strength and allows for a vigorous training program on the existing military forces attempting to train them up heavily.Meanwhile, the administration continues to be reformed, and agriculture and commerce are encouraged.Meanwhile, João I continues giving grants of land to some nobles to secure their loyalty.Meanwhile, Portugal begins to develop its navy.
 * H-H Diplomacy: Albert requests a trade agreement between Portugal and the lowlands, and also requests permission to use Portuguese ports for safe passage.
 * Majapahit: Wikramawardhana reacts very fast to the hostility of his halfbrother-in-law. He goes with his elite bodyguard unit and 2000 armed peasants to the small village where Wirabhumi started his revolt. Wikramawardhana, thinking that it will be an easy fight, is surprised when he finds out that Wirabhumi has been training all his subjects to be at least decent fighters. Wikramawardhana found himself and his army in an empty village. Just when they wanted to burn the village, Wirabhumi attacks with his 800 big army. After a long fight, Wikramawardhana wins (I don't have to make an algo for this skirmish, right?). Wirabhumi flees to an unknown location. While Wikramawardhana  is on Timor, supporters of Wirabhumi rise up in the Mjapahitian part of New Guinea and they attack a fort. After they win they loot nearby villages. After this news reaches Wikramawardhana he sends his peasants army to New Guinea to siege the fort. He himself goes to Java to oversee the construction of a road network connecting the main citys.
 * Sicily: The 5 ships sent to help the Roman's is compensated for thrice fold and message soon spreads in Siracuse that positions are available in the fleet. Many farmers start their trek to Siracuse as many believed the sea to be a sight to behold and found work in the fields not to their satisfaction. Influx of travelers improves the economy in Siracuse allowing more sea trade.
 * Venetian Republic: The fighting in Epirus continues with Corfu being used as the command base from which Venice commands naval attacks. The war is now less opposed by the Nobles in court but still harrow him about the enemies at home. However many of his opponents are silenced when the King of Hungary arrives in the capital. Whereas before the visit the people had been in chaos and the nobles causing much of it the King brought a calm and stability. Michiel stated in court in the presence of the King "Venice truly has come far, to be allied with you my lord, were we still living in the past we might not even have looked to you to consider an alliance", he continued onwards with a speech about the future in which all his opponents remained silent.
 * Papal States Diplomacy: We send 3000 men to support Venice, and begin expanding the Military further. The Pope declares that, should any power, foreign or domestic, attempt to invade, they will face the wrath of God.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: Venice thanks the Papal States for its support and in return Venice grants the Papal State a small group (10-20) of ships to be used as they will. Venice denounces the plotting of various land grabs by the Austrians and Milanese as unchristian.
 * Milanese Diplomacy: Milan states that these rumors are untrue, and as a sign of goodwill opens trade with Venice. We hope that hostilities diminish.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: The Venetian Doge is cautious but reassured by the sign of goodwill he proposes that Venice and Milan pursue further diplomatic arrangements as to prove the rumors completely untrue and to eliminate any chance of hostilities from the Milanese or Venetians towards each other. Firstly the Doge proposes a trade alliance, with Milan and Venice protecting each others trade interests and then he proposes a defensive military alliance. The Doge stresses that this is the only way to ensure that Milan and Venice are on the same page diplomatically.
 * Saxony: We continue to place heavy influence on our neighbors of Thuringia, Anhalt and Meissen. Rudolf II begins to place heavy stress on building the nations economy and national defense, which is also meant to impress Saxon nations everywhere.
 * Kingdom of Cuzco:Soldiers are trained. Road work continues. More food is grown.We prepare for war with the Aymaras.
 * Ulster: The Earl has a Son. Nobles begin to investigate rumors of a powder that burns rapidly and fiercely. Meanwhile, many Peasants begin to be trained with the Longbow, as part of Ulster's Army. The Castle continues to be constructed, and a city begins to grow up around it. The Harbor begins to be established, and the Earl commissions a Ship to begin a Navy. Trade begins with Desmond, and the Earl sends an envoy to offer a mutual military aid pact to Desmond, and an offer of a Trade Agreement is sent to England. A nobleman sees a Blacksmith using a bellows, and gets an idea. He retreats into his Castle, and begins to work on an invention.
 * Desmond: We accept the military aid pact.
 * Bohemia: Angered by the sudden invasion of our trade partner Muscovy, we secretly begin a coalition to liberate Muscovy. We ask our allies and all German states of the Holy Roman Empire to join the war. Our army is raised and we begin positioning it on our border with Poland.


 * Hamburg Diplomacy: Hamburg offers whatever aid it is able to provide.
 * Im sorry, but no. Muscovy is uncared for throughout Europe, thought of as a backwater and of no interest to anyone aside from Novrogod, with Novrogods interest only being in there territory.
 * Maybe in OTL, but ATL there is a whole coalition to save Muscovy. You can't just single out a single nation and decide they cannot help despite being allied, economically invested, and of the same culture. 
 * Well, in ATL this whole coalition is based off of metagaming. As the mod said, Muscovy was not respected. They are not of the same culture as Bohemia (West vs East Slavic makes a HUGE difference), and the Germans are not even remotely similar. The economic claims are just as bogus - Muscovy lacks any real resources as of 1400, and all that are produced (grains, furs) are also produced by Novgorod and Lithuania. Furthermore, there was no intention ever stated that trade will be cut. If anything, a future war with Muscovy, Lithuania, and Poland would create stronger economic troubles than letting Muscovy be absorbed by Poland and Lithuania would. Finally, the alliance might as well be moot because it was metagaming and ASB to begin with.
 * I truly love Russia and its people, but as much as it pains me to say this, it's true. Russia wasn't regarded as a "European" nation until the mid-1700s under Peter the Great. Extensive Westernization had to be carried out before Russia as a nation was taken seriously. Throughout the time before than, Russians were regarded as primitive, largely uncultured, and direly lacking in prosperity, most of this being true. Russia has a long, LONG ways to go before it is considered a peer of the Europeans in the West. However, the individual European nations can still provide it with aid, as any nation that possesses important strategic interests to the West will become important to the Europeans regardless of its cultural properity or not. ~Viva
 * Japan: The first born son of the emperor was born today. His name is Akimoto. The state of Toki has been taken over by The emperor to add to his empire. The rebelling forces tried to assassinate the emperor, but his body guards destroy the squad of troops sent by the shotgun trying to harm the emperor. The emperor knows that someone wants him dead, but he does not know who it is yet. The emperor's military is starting to build up fast due to this civil war happening. The forces of the emperor fight back by destroying the enemies base and taking the shotgun for questioning. The shotgun said that the reason he started this war was to gain power and overthrow the corrupted emperor from destroying the nation. After the questioning the shotgun was killed in front of a crowed in the capital city of Tokyo.
 * Milan: Work continues on the Certosa di Pavia, the Castle Visconteo, and on the extensive Milan Cathedral. We continue training a proper standing army, utilizing Swiss mercenaries and local recruits. We join the coalition to liberate Muscovy and ask that all honorable states of Italy and the Holy Roman Empire do so as well. Although we cannot dedicate an army to Russia, we plan to move a force through friendly territory a few hundred miles to Poland, which borders the Holy Roman Empire. Our army is mobilized and prepared for war.
 * Trier: Continues to expand military. As we are a prestigious elector of the Holy Roman Empire, we join Bohemia’s coalition. The army is mobilized to be used by the emperor. We ask for an alliance with France.
 * Desmond: Construction begins on the new castle, named Tomasdun, built on a rocky bluff above the city. The castle's planned to be completed in around 12 years, give or take a few years. A small town begins to spring up around it, mostly devoted to servicing the needs of the masons and laborers working on it. Meanwhile, military reforms continue, with many full-time soldiers being enlisted. Poor people take the grain offered by the govenrnment, and train for the levies. Trade with the English begins, and we welcome their ambassadors to Desmond. We condemn the pirates that raid the English coast, stating that they could accidentally sink a Desmond merchant ship trading with England. Scotland/France is asked to tone down their pirating efforts, especially near ports where Desmonder ships are sailing. Plans are made, if pirates continue to harass the coast, to fly a national flag from the ship's mast to distinguish it from English warships. Cork, in particular becomes a major center of trade and refining, and the fish production of Desmond ramps up again. Mostly food is traded with the English. Many new weapons are created, but new sources of iron must be found to refine them into weapons. We create some new mines and encourage people to work in them, as we offer the same grain benefits. Many farms owned by the Earl himself spring up around his keeps to supply food for the pseudo-welfare. They are staffed by criminals, and jails become less populated, they are only for the most dangerous now. These new reforms give the core military something to do in peacetime, as sometimes criminals will try to escape. Despite these reforms, as Desmond is a puny earldom, the prison population cannot sustain the work in the fields and we need new sources of labor in the next few years. Following the wars in Britain, some fear that they could carry over to Ireland somehow. To combat these fears, we ask local clans such as the MacCarthies to join us in a confederation. Around Kildare, many people from around Desmond come together to play a major game of "Game-Ball" also known as football. It is held in a major valley, and the event is known as the "Bowl", "Kildare Bowl", or "Desmond Bowl" as that is the shape of the vale that it's held in. This marks the first major sporting event in the nation besides military-based ones such as archery and jousting. Many people within the nation enjoy it, but most Celts or Englishmen find it odd, as it combines Irish hurling, and various English ball games. This showcases Desmond's Anglo-Celtic heritage, and that both cultures are fusing.
 * Köln: Friedrich III von Saarwerden returns to Cologne following the election of Rupert III as Holy Roman Emperor. We are pleased that Bohemia has deposed of Wenceslaus and formerly open our military alliance with them again. Ties are strengthened among the states of the Holy Roman Empire. We secretly join Bohemia’s coalition. We ask the County of Oldenburg for an alliance.
 * Oman: Roads between Yabrin oasis and Sohar are paved, meaning more frankincense can be exported beyond Arabia. As such, the infrastructure is improved, followed by economic growth in the near future.
 * UNC: As P-L and the Golden Horde launch their attack on Muscovy, in order to protect our trading allies, Pskov, we join the war, sending several thousands of troops. Meanwhile, the navy continues to be improved, and the Grand Council signs several Trade Charters. As a result, several new Merchant Fleets sail all over Europe, commanding most trade in the Baltic, and influencing markets in the Med. Having accepted the offer from Holland of marriage, we extend several trade and military pacts to them, including a Mutual Defense treaty and a Free Trade pact. Meanwhile, tensions are stirred up with the Duchy of Schleswig-Holstein, and with the city of Hamburg. Many Danes believe these to be our lands. We announce support of England in it's wars with Scotland and France, and offer the aid of our navy. We expand several hundred miles into the territory of the Saami.
 * Republic of Dubrovnik (Ragusa): Due to the Republic being a vassal, it sends it's yearly tribute to the Hungarian Kingdom. Since Pelješac was acquired in 1399, it witnesses a demographic expansion. A new shipyard is being built and the Republic continues profiting from trading with their continental neighbour(s) which lack their own coastal territory.
 * Iroquois Tribes: Generations of raids, infighting and wars between the different tribes that share the Iroquois language has left the five nations (Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca) weak and disunited. One member of the Onondaga tribe, Deganawida, his beginning to travel between the different tribes promoting unity and peace. However, it remains to be seen if he can convince the tribes to unite or not.
 * Provence: Is given a new impetus to the economy and especially trade, taking advantage of the port of Marseille. Similarly more mercenaries to protect the Royals territories are recruited. The Count of Provence moves his influence in France and ask for alliance, also to the italian kingdoms and republics. An especial noble arrives in Naples to discuss a secret agreement.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: Venice accepts the offer of alliance from the Count, and eagerly asks them to meet them soon to discuss further matters of the alliance such as future co-operation and claims to territories so that Venice and Provence are on the same page.
 * Anjou: Follows the model of Provence and improve existing military elements.
 * Ottoman Empire: The Sultan continues improves the military (who many call "the greatest in the world"), as well as the navy to improve trade relations abroad. Meanwhile, hoping to strengthen the Empire’s international relations, the Sultan sends Oman a secret trade and military alliance in case of hostilities by Timur. He also promises that any nation further attacked in the Middle East by the Timurs will face Ottoman support, and moves many of the troops stationed in Anatolia to the border of the neighboring states. Meanwhile, in Europe, many of the troops at the border of Athens remain, and cite that they will not leave until the "heathens" stop their influx of troops and ships to Rumelia (the Balkans) that threaten to attack at any moment. The Sultan sends a letter to the Doge as well as the Byzantine king, telling them that he does not seek war with Venice or Europe; he wants to focus his energy on "the evil Timur," and he plans to evacuate the troops at the border and at Constantinople in a year's time, so long as they cooperate in peace agreements.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: The Nobles in Venice criticise Michiel for his policies towards the Ottomans and state that he should pursue a more peaceful resolution. The Doge writes back to the Ottomans and states that the Venetians would like to meet in 1402 to discuss a treaty, the meeting shall be on the small island of Aegina, and see if Venice and the Turks can come to an agreement. Should the Turks refuse to meet the Venetians on Aegina then the Venetians will continue their support moreso in the following years. Venice also invites delegates from Byzantium to these negotiations.
 * Ottoman Diplomacy: The Sultan agrees, and will send his Grand Vizier Çandarlı Ali Pasha and several other diplomats to Aegina for the agreements. He is pleased to hear that Byzantium will be joining in the discussions.
 * Repubblica_di_Genova.png Republic of Genoa works more on its enormous navy and tiny army. Influence of Savoy, Luca, and Modenea begins. Trade continues and full force in the areas that Genoa commercially dominates, especially in Granada. A council of priests in Genoa hoping to find a way to end this long schism come up with a new Pope, who preaches less politics and more help of the poor for the church. The people who believe in this take jobs on Genoan traders and spread the word of this new way to look at faith. The doge still pledges his support to the roman papacy.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: The Doge asks that Genoa checks its backlog of letters as clearly it missed one from the Doge in 1400.
 * Papal States Dip: The Pope declares this "new Pope" to be a hereitic, and unchristian. he demands that Genoa destroy this hereitical movment.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: Venice backs up the Pope stating that the second pope is a heresy. The Doge announces that checks will be made on ships suspected of transporting the heresy and property and peoples will be confiscated and imprisoned as required.
 * Crimea: The ethic Genoan population rises.
 * In Savoy the economy continue growing, and the kingdom prospers. The Count first child is a daughter, and is called Sara. We ask for trade agreements and alliance with Italians countries once again. The army hire more mercenaries. The process of converting Piombino in our vassal continue. Also we see the situation on the HRE with caution.
 * Venetian Diplomacy: The Republic of Venice welcomes Savoys renewal of trade agreements and alliances. The Doge invites Savoy to send a dignitary to discuss further matters such as claims and further possible co-operation.
 * Austria: We accept Bayern-Landshut’s offer of a trade agreement. The fighting in Appensell comes to a close, as the small band of rebels is crushed by the Swiss-German army. We arrange for a treaty to be signed officially establishing St. Gallen, Thurgau, Appenzell, Uznach, Wingegg/Gaster, Sargans, Rheintal, and all other pre existing Habsburg territories in Switzerland as territory of the Archduchy of Austria. By putting these territories under his direct control, Albert IV hopes to end internal fighting and secure his border. He invites the Swiss Confederation and the Duchy of Milan to the conference to ratify the Treaty of St. Gallen, firmly establishing their current border, ending all previous hostilities, and cementing their current alliance. Angered by the loss of our trade partner and ally Muscovy we join the coalition to liberate Muscovy from the invading alliance. The newly established profession army of Austria and its levies begin training and are transported into allied territory in case of war. We dispel the rumor of hostilities against Venice, and hope to establish positive relations in the future. We accept alliance offers from other Holy Roman Empire and associated states, and offer the County of Oldenburg an alliance.
 * Mississippian River Civilisations: The Mississippian River Civilisations begin to show signs of stabilisation, but the current crisis is far from over, and the risk of potential collapse is still very real. Already divides are beginning to appear in the Mississippian civilisations, with the north dominated by Cahokia, and the south being dominated by Moundville. With the north being the stronger of the two, due to its greater population and larger settlements, as well as its greater trading materials. Refugees continue to move northwards in large numbers, but many in the far south are choosing to move towards Moundville, due to its closer proximity and its prominence as the largest settlement in the south. Trade between these two largest settlements increases, and Moundville begins a small reliance on Cahokia for certain resources not available in the south. The settlements on and near the coast of the Great Lakes in the far north of the Mississippian civilisation continue to produce bountiful harvests, bolstered with fish and crustaceans caught from the Great Lakes. These settlements begin to grow in size, to make room for the now steady flow of Mississippian refuges from the South Mississippian. The flow of refugees arriving into the Middle Mississippian continues, and they spread out among the various settlements, being absorbed into the local communities. More refugees end up in Cahokia, and its population continues to go through its revival. This places the population at around 28,000 Cahokians. Like last year, these refugees effectively nullify their negative impact by increasing the workforce available to cultivate new food stocks and gather resources. Cahokia’s status as the most important location for the Mississippian people is further cemented as a result of this continued population influx. The new crops planted last year along the confluence zone of the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois rivers in the area surrounding Cahokia are successful, and as a result Cahokia’s food stocks increase, leading to a small surplus. New crops are replanted in these areas. Irrigation techniques are refined to see if they can improve quality of the overall harvest. The well-established trade network between the Mississippian people allows valuable food stocks to continue to be transported down from the Great Lake settlements down to Cahokia and the Middle Mississippian to create a greater surplus in the food stores. Waste materials continue to be burned in locations far away from Cahokia. More efficient methods of transporting these waste materials out of Cahokia begin to be utilized. These methods are based on the use of thickly woven baskets carried on the backs of citizens, to transport it out of Cahokia. Fire pits begin to be used instead of open fires, allowing the ashes of the waste to be buried once the fires are out. The prevalence of disease, and Cahokia’s death rate, both begin to see a decline as a result. The continued population influx into the Middle Mississippian continues to cement its position as the core of the Mississippian lands. Expansion continues to take place along the banks of OTL Lake Michigan. This expansion is curving round the eastern side of the lake.